Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with a belief that Lord Ganesha, son of Shiva and
Parvati, bestows His blessings on His devotees, on this day. It is celebrated as
the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the God of wisdom. Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the
fourth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which falls around August or
September. The occasion becomes very lively and enthusiastic with the devotional
songs, dances and drum beats being a part of the procession observed by the
devotees of Lord Ganesha, as a part of the festivities. Ganesh Chaturthi is the
only festival that involves and welcomes the participation of general public.
Ganesh Chaturthi is an important festival of Maharashtra, celebrated grandly in
other parts of India as well. The preparation starts one month in advance, with
great enthusiasm, to celebrate this auspicious occasion. The festival starts
with the installation of beautifully sculpted Ganesha idols in homes and mandaps.
These idols are decorated beautifully and show religious themes. The occasion
also sees various cultural events being held every where, in which people
participate with interest. After celebration, the time of farewell comes and the
idol of the beloved God is immersed in water. The celebration ends with the
immersion, accompanied by loud shouts of 'Ganapati Bappa Moraya'. Ganesh
Chaturthi, in 2009, is expected to fall on 23rd August.
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