Ganesh Chaturthi, also called Vinayaka Chaturthi, is an auspicious Hindu festival. As per the Hindu calendar, each lunar month has two Chaturthi Tithis. The one that falls after Amavasya or the new moon is called the Vinayaka Chaturthi and the one that falls after Purnima, the full moon is known as Sankashti Chaturthi. Ganesh is depicted with an elephant’s head on a human body and in the Hindu tradition, he is the son of Lord Shiva and the Goddess Parvati.
Vinayaka Chaturthi is observed every month but the one that falls in the month of Bhadrapada is the most celebrated of all. In the month of July, the festival falls on July 23.
Vinayaka Chaturthi Significance:
In certain parts of India, such as Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, the festival is celebrated for ten days and is a very public occasion. This remains one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the country, partly because Ganesh is one of the most popular deities for worship. His blessings are often invoked at religious ceremonies as he is the one who can remove all obstacles to success, particularly when people are starting a new business or enterprise.
One of the best places to experience the festival is in Mumbai. It particularly takes place at the towering Siddhivinayak temple, situated in the central south Mumbai neighborhood of Prabhadevi, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Vinayaka Chaturthi Rituals:
- On the day of the festival, clay idols of Ganesh are placed in homes or outdoor in decorated tents for people to view and pay their homage.
- Vinayaka Chaturthi puja is mainly in the afternoon. The fasting depends on sunrise and sunset timings which is why it is different for all cities.
- The devotees must chant Om Ganeshaya Namah Mantra at least 108 times while performing the puja. It is believed that those who observe this fast and chant the mantra they progress in life and achieve all their heartily desires.
- The devotees should also perform Ganesh Aarti with a lamp of camphor or ghee lighted in front of the idol.
- Temples devoted to Lord Ganesh also organize special events and prayers. Those who have a Ganesh statue in their house treat and care for him as a much-loved guest.
