Ganesh Utsav

Ganesh Chaturthi is the annual festival celeberated in most extravagant at Mumbai - the comercial capital and Pune- the cultural capital of Maharashtra state. This day is the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the elephant headed deity of Hindus who is known as the remover of obstacles and the god of auspiciousness.

An 11-day festival begins with the installation of beautifully sculpted Ganesha idols in homes and mandaps (large tents), colourfully decorated, depicting religious themes or current events. The Ganesh idols are worshipped with families and friends. Many cultural events are organized and people participate in them with keen interest. After ten exciting days comes the time to bid farewell to the beloved God.

People take Ganesh idols in procession to the accompaniment of music and dance for immersion in the sea or nearby river or lake. Emotions run high as people chant 'Ganpati bappa moraya, pudhachya varshi lavkar ya'
(Oh Lord Ganesh, please come back soon next year).