Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganeshotsav, is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. It is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, and is also observed by Hindus all over the world.
Date of Ganesh Chaturthi 2023
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Bhadrapada month in the Hindu calendar. In 2023, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 19. You may refer to Drik Panchang for auspicious puja times (Puja Muhurat) for your country and city.
Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time to worship Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings for new beginnings and success in all endeavors. He is also invoked before any auspicious undertaking, such as a wedding, starting a new business, or building a new house.
Celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great pomp and fervor in India and all over the world. People bring clay idols of Lord Ganesha into their homes and temples, and decorate them with flowers and offerings. They also recite prayers and sing hymns in his praise.
In many places, especially in Maharashtra, large pandals are set up where people can come and worship Lord Ganesha. These pandals are often decorated with colorful lights and flowers, and attract thousands of visitors each day.
The Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations last for 10 days, and culminate in the immersion of the Lord Ganesha idols in water bodies. This ceremony is known as Ganesh Visarjan.
How to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi at home
If you want to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi at home, here are a few things you may do:
- Set up a small altar in your home and place an idol of Lord Ganesha on it.
- Decorate the altar with flowers, fruits, and sweets.
- Offer prayers and sing hymns to Lord Ganesha.
- Invite your family and friends to come and worship Lord Ganesha with you.
- Prepare a vegetarian feast and share it with your loved ones.
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time to celebrate the joy and abundance of life. It is also a time to remember the importance of wisdom, compassion, and service to others.