Ganesh Chaturthi

• how (or when) started Ganesh chaturthi ?

Although it is unknown when (or how) Ganesh Chaturthi was first observed, the festival has been publicly celebrated in Pune since the era of King Shivaji .

it became increasingly popular after a public celebration was initiated by the prominent Anti-Colonial Freedom Fighter, Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, in Maharashtra in the year 1893. Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, in Maharashtra in the year 1893. Lokmanya Tilak started the festival in Pune and Girgaon, Mumbai.

The origins of Ganesh Chaturthi can be traced back to ancient Hindu texts, where Ganesha is honored as the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta) and the god of new beginnings. According to mythology, Ganesha was created by Goddess Parvati from clay to guard her while she bathed. His devotion to duty and his eventual resurrection with an elephant’s head after a conflict with Lord Shiva highlights his significance in Hindu culture as a symbol of overcoming adversity.

The festival celebrates Ganesha as the God of New Beginnings and the Remover of Obstacles as well as the god of wisdom and intelligence and is observed throughout the Indian subcontinent by Hindus, especially in the states such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Goa, as well as Nepal. Ganesh Chaturthi is also observed by the Hindu diaspora elsewhere such as in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, other parts of the Caribbean, Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa, the United States, and Europe.

 *how clebrate ganesh chaturthi ?

Idol Creation or Purchase: Devotees either make their own Ganesha idols from clay or buy them from local artisans. The idols can range from small household-sized ones to large community idols.
Pandal Setup: For larger community celebrations, a temporary pavilion or “pandal” is set up, often beautifully decorated to house the idol. In households, a special place is prepared for the idol.

Decoration :
Homes and pandals are decorated with flowers, lights, and colorful rangoli (traditional floor art). The decor is meant to create a festive atmosphere and honor the deity.

Prayers and Offerings:
Ganpati Sthapana: The festival begins with the ritual of installing the idol and performing an invocation or “pranapratishtha” to invite the deity’s presence.
Daily Worship: Each day of the festival includes rituals such as offering flowers, fruits, sweets (like modaks, which are Ganesha’s favorite), and incense. Prayers and hymns are recited, and devotional songs (bhajans) are sung.

Cultural Events:
Music and Dance: Many celebrations feature traditional music, dance performances, and theatrical plays depicting stories related to Ganesha.
Community Activities: In larger celebrations, there are often community events like processions, street decorations, and cultural competitions.

On the final day, known as Anant Chaturdashi, the idol is taken out in a grand procession, often accompanied by singing, dancing, and festive crowds. The procession ends at a nearby river, lake, or sea, where the idol is immersed in water, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his divine abode.

Environmental .

Eco-Friendly Idols :- Many people are now opting for eco-friendly idols made from biodegradable materials to reduce environmental impact.These idols are painted with natural colors.

Ganesh Chaturthi is more than just a religious festival; it is a vibrant cultural celebration that unites people across regions and faiths. It serves as a reminder to remove obstacles in our lives, embrace wisdom, and stay grounded in our traditions.
Eco-Friendly Celebrations: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Many people opt for clay idols that are biodegradable and do not harm the environment.