GANESH CHATURTHI

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the 20 September 2023. A day when beautiful idols of Lord Ganesh take center stage, the aroma of his favorite modak sweet wafts through the air, and excitement fills the atmosphere. Apart from Mauritius and India, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with pomp in Thailand, Indonesia and China. In Japan, Ganesh has been worshipped in a different form: Kangiten / Vinayakaten for over 1000 years.

1. Origin with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: While some believe Ganesh Chaturthi dates back to ancient dynasties between 271 BC and 1190 AD, the first historical record of its celebration goes back to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 1600s. He fervently celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi in Pune, considering Lord Ganesha as their family deity, a tradition continued by the Peshwas. 

2. Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s Transformation: In 1893, freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak transformed Ganesh Chaturthi from a private affair into a massive public event, with the goal of uniting India against British rule. He defied British restrictions on mass gatherings by placing huge Lord Ganesha hoardings in Mumbai, encouraging public celebrations. This move not only brought spirituality but also patriotism into the Indian Independence struggle.

3. Global Reverence for Lord Ganesha: Lord Ganesha’s worship extends beyond India’s borders. Countries like Thailand, Cambodia, China, Japan, Nepal, and Afghanistan revere him, albeit in different forms. The deity’s depiction and significance vary across these regions, showcasing his universal appeal.

 4. The Moon’s Taboo: During Ganesh Chaturthi, one superstition persists: it’s considered unlucky to look at the moon. This belief stems from a myth where Lord Ganesha’s belly burst open after falling from his mouse vehicle. He later restored it but threw his tooth at the mocking moon, cursing it. This superstition lives on today.

 5. Mumbai’s Grand Immersion: Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja Mandal, established in 1934, hosts India’s longest immersion procession. It kicks off at 10 am and ends the following morning. This tradition, rooted in a promise made by local fishermen and vendors, showcases
the enduring spirit of devotion. 

So, as you celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, remember that it’s not just a festival; it’s a tapestry of history, spirituality, and unity.