Ganesh Chaturthi – Why the Festival is Celebrated for 10 Days
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a grand festival celebrated to honour the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. It is observed with great enthusiasm across India, especially in Maharashtra, and the Indian diaspora globally, including in Australia, where the Indian community brings the festivities alive.
The origins of Ganesh Chaturthi date back to the Maratha Empire, particularly promoted by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Over time, this festival evolved into a public celebration of national unity, especially during India’s freedom movement. For Hindus, Lord Ganesha’s presence is invoked at the start of any new venture or journey, as he is considered the deity who clears the path of success and wisdom.
The festival spans 10 days, with devotees performing various rituals and ceremonies. But why is it celebrated for 10 days? According to Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha was created by Goddess Parvati from sandalwood paste. When Lord Shiva, her husband, attempted to enter her chambers, Ganesha—following his mother’s orders-denied him entry. Enraged, Shiva beheaded Ganesha, but later, to rectify his actions, he placed the head of an elephant on Ganesha, thus granting him a new life. The 10-day festival symbolises this event, celebrating Ganesha’s birth and his journey back to his divine abode.
Here’s a detailed 10-day schedule of the festival
Day 1- Ganesh Chaturthi
The festival starts with the installation of beautifully crafted Ganesha idols in homes and public pandals. The ritual of pran pratishtha is performed to invite Lord Ganesha’s spirit into the idol. Devotees offer modaks (a sweet dumpling loved by Ganesha) and chant hymns.
Day 2-3- Bhajans and Cultural Programs
These two days are filled with devotion and cultural celebrations. Communities organise bhajans, dances, and musical performances. It is also a time for family gatherings and celebrations at homes, temples, and public venues.
Day 4-5- Community Decorations and Processions
On the fourth and fifth days, the festival takes to the streets with elaborate decorations and processions. Temples and public areas are adorned with lights, flowers, and vibrant decorations. Devotees carry idols around, accompanied by music and dancing.
Day 6- Special Ganesha Puja
On this day, a special prayer known as Raja Ganpati Puja is performed, invoking blessings for prosperity and success. This ritual is one of the most significant aspects of the celebration and holds great spiritual importance.
Day 7-8- Preparations for Immersion
Preparations for Ganesha’s immersion start on these days. Families and communities begin to organise grand processions, symbolising Ganesha’s return to Mount Kailash, his divine home. The atmosphere is filled with enthusiasm, with final prayers and songs being offered.
Day 9- Anant Chaturdashi and Immersion
The ninth day, known as Anant Chaturdashi, marks the culmination of the festival. The idols of Lord Ganesha are taken out in grand processions for immersion into rivers or seas. Devotees chant “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya!” (O Lord Ganesha, come back soon next year!).
Day 10- Post-Immersion Rituals
After the immersion, devotees offer prayers, expressing gratitude for the blessings received during the festival. Post-immersion clean-up drives and smaller rituals are also carried out, marking the end of this vibrant festival.
For Indians living in Australia, Ganesh Chaturthi is a significant way to stay connected with their cultural roots, and the 10-day celebration provides a deep connection to traditions, even while far from home. Through various community events, they can partake in this vibrant festival, ensuring the spirit of Ganesha and the celebration of unity and prosperity continue to thrive across continents.
