Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 will start on September 7 and conclude on September 17. This ten-day festival is marked by grand festivities, vibrant decorations, and devotional fervour. According to the Hindu calendar, Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada. In this article, we’ll detail you about the Ganesh Chaturthi date, muhurat, history, significance, rituals and celebrations. Are Ganesh Jayanti and Ganesh Chaturthi the Same? Know the Difference Between Maghi Ganesh Jayanti and Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Date and Muhurat

The auspicious timing for Ganesh Chaturthi in 2024 begins on September 7 and continues for ten days, culminating on Anant Chaturdashi, which will be on September 17. The subh muhurat of Ganesh Chaturthi is on September 7 from 11:22 AM to 01:51 PM. Chaturthi Tithi begins on September 6 at 03:01 PM and ends on September 7 at 05:37 PM. Devotees install Ganesha idols in their homes and public pandals (temporary structures) during these timings, seeking the lord's blessings for prosperity and the removal of obstacles.

Ganesh Chaturthi History

The celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi dates back to ancient times. However, it gained significant prominence during the Maratha reign under Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In the 19th century, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak revived and transformed the festival into a public event, using it as a platform to unite people and promote Indian nationalism against British colonial rule. Tilak encouraged large public gatherings and processions, making Ganesh Chaturthi a community-centric festival fostering unity and pride among Indians.

Ganesh Chaturthi Significance

Ganesh Chaturthi holds immense religious and cultural significance. Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is revered as the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta) and the lord of new beginnings. Devotees believe that worshipping Ganesha brings good fortune, wisdom, and success in all endeavours. The festival also signifies the cycle of birth, life, and death, symbolised by the installation and immersion (visarjan) of Ganesha idols.

Ganesh Chaturthi Rituals and Celebrations

The ten-day festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. Key rituals and celebrations include:

Idol Installation and Worship: Beautifully crafted idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in homes and public pandals. The chanting of Vedic hymns and prayers accompanies the idol installation.

Prayers and Offerings: Devotees offer flowers, fruits, sweets especially modaks, which are Lord Ganesha's favourite, and coconuts to the deity. Daily aartis and bhajans are performed.

Fasting and Feasting: Many devotees observe fasts, while feasts are prepared with various traditional dishes. Families and friends come together to celebrate and share the festive meals.

Cultural Programs: Public pandals organise cultural programs, including music, dance, and drama, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and community spirit.

Visarjan: On the last day, Ananta Chaturdashi, the idols are taken in grand processions for immersion in water bodies. This ritual, known as Ganesh Visarjan, signifies the cycle of birth, life, and death, and the belief that Lord Ganesha returns to his celestial abode.

Ganesh Chaturthi is a time of joy, devotion, and community bonding. It is a celebration that transcends religious boundaries, bringing people together to honour the beloved Lord Ganesha. As we prepare for Ganesh Chaturthi 2024, let us embrace the spirit of the festival with reverence and a commitment to preserving our environment. May Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom, prosperity, and the strength to overcome all obstacles. Ganpati Bappa Morya!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 07, 2024 01:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).