| Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Utsav, is a highly revered Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity. Considered the remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesha is often invoked at the start of any new endeavour, intellectual pursuit, or business venture. |
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This 10-day-long celebration is observed with great fervour and devotion by Hindus across the world, particularly in India. Lord Ganesha, also known by various names such as Gajanana, Dhoomraketu, Ekdanta, Vakrtunda, and Siddhi Vinayaka, is revered as the god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
The festival begins on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which typically falls between August and September. During this time, elaborately decorated clay idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in homes, temples, and temporary public stages called pandals and then worshipped through various rituals and ceremonies.
The origins of Ganesh Chaturthi can be traced back to the Maratha Empire in the 17th century when it was celebrated by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to promote nationalism and unity among his subjects.
According to Hindu mythology, he was created by Goddess Parvati using her own body, who breathed life into him. Appointed as the ‘Vighnaharta’ or the remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the god of wisdom, intellect, and learning. Devotees seek his blessings for success in their endeavours, education, and new beginnings
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