Ganesh Chaturthi is the celebration of the birth of Lord Ganesha, one
of the most important Gods of the Hindu Mythology. The festival is
usually celebrated on the 4th day of Bhadarva Shukla-paksh of Hindu
calendar in (August and September). According to the Hindu belief
Ganeshji is worshipped first on all auspicious occasions, whether it is
a marriage or a religious function. Ganeshji is the foremost god of the
Hindu Pantheon. He is regarded as the destroyer of all problems and
obstacles. That's the reason in Hindu family whenever they start a new
venture they perform his puja he is regarded as an extremely benevolent
god, fulfilling the wishes of those who pray to him sincerely. Ganesh is
remembered on chauth or chaturthi, the 4th day of every month of the
Hindu calendered, but most of all on Ganesh Chaturthi, which is
celebrated as his birthday. On the day of the festival Hindus performs
pujas at temples and even in homes. Fasting, feasting and distribution
of sweets mainly ladoos are offered to him. These are some of the
important aspects of Ganesh Chaturthi rituals in India. After the
festival is over they immerse the idols in the nearby water body, which
are sacred.
The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi symbolizes Good omen. It also inspires
the devotees to have trust and faith in God all mighty and obey the
commands of God. The celebration begins much before the festival as
people starts preparing by cleaning the house and whitewashing. During
the festival people purchase small images from shops and brought into
home. Larger clay made images are made by the professional craftsmen and
set up in pandals and pavilions throughout the country. It is a
festival, which is observed through out the country. Especially in
Maharashtra side this festival has a special significance and it is
celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The festival is also symbolic
of the advent of all festivals dedicated to other Indian Gods.
