Happy Ganesh chaturthi 2023!

Why do we observe Ganesh Utsav for ten days?

From September 19 through September 28, Hindus will celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day holiday honoring Lord Ganesha and commemorating his birth. Lord Ganesha is revered with tremendous devotion, and the Shodashopachara Puja, which consists of sixteen rituals, is performed.

Ganesha idols can be placed in homes or public spaces to commemorate Ganesh Chaturthi. Clay, wood, or metal can be used to create the idol. Melodic bhajans and kirtans performed in honor of Lord Ganesha are what make the event unique.

Temporary buildings decked with colorful flowers, lights, and festive accents are made during this period. A Ganesha pandal is another place where devotees can go to pray and celebrate.

Have you ever wondered why one of the most popular celebrations in India, especially in the state of Maharashtra, lasts for ten days? For those who are unfamiliar with Hindu mythology, Ganesha is said to have been made by Parvati from the sandalwood paste she used for her bath, when she gave the idol life and told him to guard her as she was bathing.

To make peace later, Shiva gave Ganesha a new head, usually the head of an elephant, after his wife's husband Shiva returned and was denied admittance by Ganesha. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which lasts 10 days and symbolizes the time between Ganesha's birth and his return to his mother Parvati, is when this event is symbolically reenacted.

Since the 10 days are seen as an auspicious period for asking for Ganesha's blessings, the celebration allows people plenty of time to get together, participate in cultural activities, and showcase their artistic abilities by creating magnificent Ganesha idols and decorations. Invoking Ganesha's blessings and grace during this time is done by devotees through a variety of rituals, prayers, and food offerings.