Ganpati Visarjan 2024 | Part 2 |

Ganpati Festival, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. The festival typically lasts 10 days, starting on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls between August and September.
Key aspects of the festival include:
Idol Installation (Pranapratishtha): Clay idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in homes and public pandals (temporary stages). The idols are decorated and worshipped with rituals and offerings.
Daily Prayers and Offerings: Devotees perform aarti (prayer rituals) and offer sweets, especially modak, which is believed to be Lord Ganesha's favorite. Other offerings include fruits, flowers, and coconut.
Cultural Events: Various cultural programs like dance, music, and plays are organized in public pandals. People from all communities often come together to celebrate the festival.
Visarjan (Immersion): On the 10th day, also known as Anant Chaturdashi, the idols are taken in grand processions, accompanied by singing, dancing, and chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya," and immersed in rivers, lakes, or the sea. This symbolizes the return of Ganesha to his heavenly abode.
The festival fosters community bonding and reflects the spirit of unity, devotion, and joy. Eco-friendly practices are becoming increasingly popular to reduce environmental impact during the idol immersions.