Lord Ganesha, commonly known as Vighna Harata (the remover of obstacles) is worshipped first among the many Gods in Hindu tradition. Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the dearest son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It falls on the fourth day of Shukla Paksha (the
waxing period of the moon) in the month of Bhadrapad (August/ September) according to the Hindu calendar, hence known as Ganesh ‘Chaturthi’. The festival is celebrated with great zeal and devotion across India, with people following different traditions. People belonging to different sects have their way of expressing their devotion to their beloved lord, Ganesha. In various parts of Maharashtra, this festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. Giant Pandals are built to accommodate thousands of devotees who stand in queue for long hours just to get a glimpse of their beloved Bappa. Ganesha is worshipped as a harbinger of happiness and blessings upon everyone without bias. All of his devotees perform various aradhnas and seek his blessings to fulfil their desires and forgive all of their sins magnanimously.
The entire grandeur is worth watching. The devotees are seen thanking him for all the happiness in their life. A few requesting him to bless them with desired results. More than anything, this festival brings together a lot of people from various communities. On the last day, the statues are taken for immersion in water (Visarjan) with a huge procession of devotees dancing, singing and beating the drums.
As the devotees bid adieu to Bappa with teary eyes, they seek promise from him to come back even earlier than this year. This year, the festival falls on Monday, 2nd September. Since Lord Ganesha is the God of knowledge and wisdom, it is essential that we, the students, seek his blessings and never deviate from the path of truth and virtue in our lives. On this auspicious occasion, let’s wish that may everyone’s desires get fulfilled and may everyone find health, wealth, prosperity and happiness in their life.
Ganpati Bappa Morya!!
