Ganesh Chaturthi: 

A deeper insight into one of our favourite festivals.

Across Bharatam, which has so many vibrant and diverse festivals, Pillayar Chaturthi holds a very special place for many people. It is one of those festivals that is celebrated with equal fervour across the country. This grand festival, celebrated with immense enthusiasm and devotion, marks the birth of Lord Ganesha - the remover of obstacles and the embodiment of wisdom, intellect, and prosperity. Let us delve into the various aspects of this festival that capture the hearts of millions every year.

Across Bharatam, which has so many vibrant and diverse festivals, Pillayar Chaturthi holds a very special place for many people. It is one of those festivals that is celebrated with equal fervour across the country. This grand festival, celebrated with immense enthusiasm and devotion, marks the birth of Lord Ganesha - the remover of obstacles and the embodiment of wisdom, intellect, and prosperity. Let us delve into the various aspects of this festival that capture the hearts of millions every year.

In the Bhramanda Puranam, at a critical juncture during the war between Devi’s army and the Asura Bhandasura, a spell was cast where all the devis lost their shakti and swooned. On Lalitha Parameshwari’s command, Lord Ganesha entered the war and used his powers to weaken Bahndasuras spell, revive the Devis and win the battle. Pleased with this, Ambal ordained that henceforth Lord Ganesha will be revered as the 'Vighneshwara' or the remover of obstacles, making him the deity to seek blessings from before starting any new undertaking. This is the reason why Ganesha / Pillayar is such a popular deity and it is so common to find idols of Lord Ganesha adorning homes, offices, and even streets, especially during the festival.

This festival is one of the grandest ones in Mumbai and preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi begin months in advance. Artists and craftsmen skillfully prepare intricate clay idols of Ganesha, varying in size and pose. Traditionally these idols used to be made from river clay and have vegetable dyes for colours. However, these days even materials like plaster of Paris and papier mache is used to make these idols. These idols are then brought to homes, community pandals where they are ceremoniously installed. It is a community festival with every apartment having a large Ganesh idol even though every home has their own personal Ganesha!

Devotees decorate the Ganesha idol with flowers, ornaments, and traditional attire. There’s almost always an umbrella over him. The Ganesh /Pillayar is worshipped over several days in each home, which is filled with melodious devotional songs and the scent of incense, offering a surreal experience.

At the end of the 3 or 9 day period 'Ganesh Visarjan,' or the process of the immersion of idols into the water begins. The final day of the festival witnesses vibrant, colourful processions where people come together to bid farewell to the God. Dancing, singing, and drumbeats create an electrifying atmosphere as the idols are submerged in water. Amongst all the exalted celebrations it is a stark reminder of our reality, in sending the clay idol of Ganesha back to the sea / river bed to become one with the source.

Ganesh Chaturthi is not just a religious festival but also a powerful thread connecting communities and bringing everyone together.

After years of polluting our rivers and seashores with artificially painted Ganesha Idols made from environment unfriendly material, these days people have become more conscious of their actions. These days eco-friendly Ganesha idols made from clay, painted with natural colours, and sustainable materials have gained popularity.

Ganesh Chaturthi definitely brings a huge sense of positivity to everyone celebrating – whatever the scale. It marks new beginnings and a sense of hope to overcome obstacles that may have stalled any progress. From the carefully crafted idols to the grand procession of immersion, the festival transcends barriers and creates an atmosphere of joy and spirit. Living outside India might restrict the public grandeur and scale of the festival, however it is wonderful to have a range of Pillayar and all the festive decorations available, so that festivities inside our homes may be just as grand!