India is celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi today, September 14, with devotees across several states marking the festival with prayers, Ganpati installations and community celebrations.
The festival is particularly prominent in Maharashtra, where large public celebrations take place in cities such as Mumbai and Pune. Ganesh idols are installed in homes, residential communities and public pandals, followed by prayers and cultural programmes.
Several other states are also observing the festival, with regional variations in celebrations and holidays. Schools and institutions in some states have declared holidays for the occasion, while schedules differ in other parts of the country.
This year’s celebrations are also accompanied by continued emphasis on environmentally responsible festivities. Authorities and environmental groups have encouraged people to choose eco-friendly idols and avoid materials that can cause pollution during immersion.
Ganesh Chaturthi traditionally begins with the installation of Lord Ganesha idols and religious ceremonies. The festival period eventually concludes with Ganesh Visarjan, when idols are ceremonially immersed.
The festival is not only a religious occasion but also a major cultural event involving music, decorations, community gatherings and charitable activities. Large celebrations attract thousands of visitors and contribute significantly to local economic activity through temporary markets, food stalls, decoration businesses and cultural programmes.
