Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 | Date | Celebration | Legend

Why is  Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated in India?

By Intimate Viewpoint

Lord Ganesha is considered the first to be worshipped in India. He is known as 'Pratham Pujya', the first to be worshipped. He is also known as 'Vighnaharta', who removes obstacles. 

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What is the significance of Ganesh Chaturthi in Indian culture?

Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha. It is celebrated between 22 August and 20 September every year. This year it will be celebrated on the 7th of September, i.e., Saturday. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated across the country with great pomp. It is a major festival in many states such as Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, etc. It is celebrated for 10 days in such states.

Ganesha Chaturthi is also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chavithi in many states.

Celebrations 

Preparation for Ganesh Chaturthi starts one or two months in advance. The creation of the huge idols of Lord Ganesha begins months in advance. The construction and decoration of the Pandals also start months in advance. The worship of Lord Ganesha is not done only in Pandals but also in homes and workplaces. People clean and decorate their homes to welcome Lord Ganesha. Idols of lord Ganesha are placed in a clean place. Mantras are chanted, sweets and fruits are offered to Lord Ganesha, and Aarti is done at the end of worship. People also go to the Pandals to visit Lord Ganesha and the splendid decorations of the Pandals.

Legend

According to the scriptures, Lord Ganesha is the younger son of Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. Hindu mythology says Goddess Parvati did not give birth to Lord Ganesha but she created him from the 'Ubtan' (a paste of turmeric, Chandan, and other things which is applied on the body) of her body and put life in it. In this way, he became the son of Lord Shiva and Ganesh Goddess Parvati. Lord Ganesha is very powerful, Mighty, and great knowledgeable. That's why he is also known as the god of wisdom and intelligence.

Lord Ganesha's favorite food is 'Laddu' and 'Modak'. Lord Ganesha is also known as Siddhivinayak. The term Siddhi means perfection or accomplishment attainment or success or talent. That's why the temples of Ganesha are called 'Siddhivinayak mandir'.