Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Say “Ganpati Bappa Morya”

Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a hugely and devotedly celebrated in India as the Hindu Festival defining the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. This vibrant and joyous festival falls on different dates each year, depending on the lunar calendar, and in 2023, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on September 19th. Let's explore the significance of this festival in India with the best places to experience its grandeur, and the traditional ways people celebrate this auspicious occasion.

All you need to know about Ganesh Chaturthi is below

When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2023?

Ganesh Chaturthi in 2023 will be celebrated on 19th September 2023. This date is determined based on the Hindu lunar calendar.

Why is Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated in India?

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated to honor the birth of Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Lord Ganesha is revered as the remover of obstacles, the patron of arts and sciences, and the deity of wisdom and beginnings. Devotees believe that invoking Ganesha's blessings during this festival brings prosperity, success, peace and the removal of all impediments from their lives. The festival also symbolizes the cycle of creation and dissolution, highlighting the impermanence of life.

Which are the best places in India to visit during Ganesh Chaturthi?

India comes alive with vibrant celebrations during Ganesh Chaturthi, and there are several places where you can experience the grandeur of this festival:

Mumbai, Maharashtra: Mumbai's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are legendary. The city witnesses massive processions, elaborate decorations, and awe-inspiring idols of Lord Ganesha. The immersion of idols in the Arabian Sea is a spectacle not to be missed and never miss the aagaman (arrival) and virsarjan (departure) of lord Ganesh you will surely regret.

Pune, Maharashtra: Pune, often referred to as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, hosts grand processions, cultural performances, and beautifully crafted Ganesha idols. Just devotion and admiration of culture; unity spread in gulaal and rituals.

Hyderabad, Telangana: The city of Nizams, Hyderabad, celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with immense enthusiasm. The Khairatabad Ganesh idol, one of the tallest in the world, is a must visit if you go to Hyderabad this Ganpati.

Kolkata, West Bengal: While predominantly a Durga Puja hub but Kolkata also celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with same enthusiasm, devotion and love of Lord Ganesha. The beautiful clay idols and artistic decorations add a unique touch to the festivities.

How Do People Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in India?

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in India are a harmonious blend of religious rituals, cultural performances, and communal harmony:

Bringing Lord Ganesha at your home (Idol Installation): Devotees install Ganesha murtis (idols), often made of clay, at their homes (2 – 5 ft) and in public pandals called unity as Mandal in Marathi Language in India, where a group of people or society bring 10 – 20 ft. of Ganesha murti with great pomp and devotion. The idols are meticulously decorated with flowers, ornaments, and colorful clothing, sparkling and showering all the love for Ganesha.

Daily Puja: Over the course of the festival, devotees perform daily pujas or aarti (religious rituals) to honor Lord Ganesha. This includes chanting of prayers, offering sweets (modakas, Ganesha's favorite), and lighting oil lamps. You will learn a lot from the prayers of Ganesha, if not only this words “Ganpati Bappa Morya” will fill you with joy and happiness of the moment during the Ganesh aartis.

Visarjan: On the final day of the festival, devotees bid farewell to Lord Ganesha called "Visarjan." The idols are immersed in bodies of water, symbolizing the return of Ganesha to his heavenly abode with the chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya, pudhchya varshi lavkar yaa”.

Cultural Performances: Throughout the festival we have cultural programs, including traditional dances, guest visits at home and music to celebrate Ganesha's grace and blessings.

Ganesh Chaturthi in 2023 promises to be a time of immense devotion, cultural richness, and communal harmony, unity among the people of India. Celebrated with great zeal across India, this festival not only honors Lord Ganesha but also fosters a sense of unity and spirituality among people of all backgrounds. Whether you visit the bustling streets of Mumbai or the serene temples of Pune, you will witness the heartwarming celebration of Lord Ganesha's birth and the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. 

You will always chant “Ganpati Bappa Morya”

Thank you.

Visit our home page for more: Click now