Ganesh Chaturthi (also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi), observed as the birthday of Lord Ganesha. This year, it falls on Saturday, 22 August. The 10-day long festival holds great significance to the Hindus across India.
The festival is celebrated during the month of Bhaadrapada (mid-August to mid-September) according to the Hindu calendar. Celebrations, which begin on Shukla Chaturthi, are usually held on the fourth day of the second fortnight or the 14th day of the fortnight which is known as Ananta Chaturdashi.
On the first day of the festival, the clay idols of Lord Ganesh, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, are placed at homes or in public pandals, where special prayers, songs and pujas are conducted. A delicacy called modak is prepared during the festival. Rice or flour is stuffed with grated jaggery, coconut and dry fruits. A single plate contains 21 pieces of the sweet dish.
Normally, the idols kept for poojas are homes will be immersed on the same day or after three days. However, it will be immersed after worshiping for 10 days in pandals.
The idols are taken through streets in colourful processions symbolising the seeing-off of Vinayaka's journey towards his abode, taking away the misfortunes of all mankind along with him. Later, the idols are immersed in a river or sea on the 11th day and the ritual is called Visarjan.
International Business Times India wishes all its readers a very happy and prosperous Ganesh Chaturthi. Here are a few best wishes, messages, to share with your loved ones.
May Lord Ganesha enrich your life
By giving you great beginnings and removing obstacles.
May blessings be showered upon you from heaven.
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!
On this auspicious festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, I wish you good luck and may all good fortune shine upon you with the blessings of Vinayaka. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi to you and your family.
May the divine blessings of Lord Ganesh bring you eternal bliss and may he hold your hands to guide you in the right path always. Happy Vinayaka Chaturthi.
Vakratund mahakay
Suryakoti samprabha
Nirvighnam Kurume devam
Sarvakaryesu sarvada.
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi
May Lord Ganesha shower abundant good luck on you
And may He always bestow you with His blessings!
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!
May Lord Ganesh removes all the obstacles and makes your life smooth with love and care. May you be blessed to lead a prosperous life. I wish all your dreams come true with Vinayaka. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi
May Lord Ganesh bless you abundantly with good fortune, wisdom, prosperity and wealth throughout your life. Happy Vinayaka Chaturthi
Did you know the meaning of Lord GANESHA
G- Get
A- Always
N- New
E- Energy
S- Spirit &
H- Happiness
A- At all times!
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!
Lord Ganesha is a symbol of good fortune, wisdom and prosperity.
I pray for you to get all the good blessings of the Lord.