Saturday, 7 September marks the beginning of the 10-day celebration of the Hindu festival ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’. This vibrant festival celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and new beginnings.
Also known as ‘Vinayak Chaturthi’, the celebrations for the festival involve a mix of devotional and festive activities. On Day 1 of the Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 festivities, devotees welcome Lord Ganesha in form of elaborate and colorful idols to their homes.
They offer prayers, observe fasts, perform rituals, and participate in community gatherings. The festival often features music, dance, and elaborate decorations.
The last day, known as Anant Chaturdashi, involves a grand procession where the idols are immersed in water, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode. This immersion is accompanied by chants and celebrations, marking both an end and a renewal as the cycle starts again for the next year.
