India welcomed Lord Ganesha with grand devotion on Wednesday as thousands of devotees gathered at Mumbai’s famous Shree Siddhivinayak Temple to offer prayers on Ganesh Chaturthi.
The festival marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha, revered as the god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The ten-day celebration began today and will end with Ganesh Visarjan on Anant Chaturdashi.
Also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayak Chavithi, the festival honors Ganesha as the “God of New Beginnings” and the “Remover of Obstacles.” He is also celebrated as the divine source of wisdom and intelligence.
Rituals and Traditions
During the festivities, devotees bring idols of Lord Ganesha into their homes, set up decorated pandals, observe fasts, prepare traditional sweets, and take part in prayers and cultural events. Across the country, lakhs of people gather in temples and community mandals to seek the blessings of the deity.
Lalbaugcha Raja – Mumbai’s Icon of Faith
One of the most iconic attractions of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is Lalbaugcha Raja, whose first look was revealed on Sunday. More than just an idol, Lalbaugcha Raja represents the collective faith of millions, the artistry of craftsmen, and the vibrant spirit of Mumbai.
Every year, millions of devotees line up for darshan of this grand idol. Established in 1934 by the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal at Putlabai Chawl, the idol has a deep cultural and religious history in the city.
Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations Begin Across India
India welcomed Lord Ganesha with devotion and joy on Wednesday as thousands of devotees thronged the famous Shree Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai to mark the beginning of Ganesh Chaturthi.
The festival celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, known as the deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. This year’s ten-day festival starts today and will end on Anant Chaturdashi with the grand Ganesh Visarjan, when idols of Ganesha are immersed in water.
The Spirit of Vinayak Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi, also called Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayak Chavithi, honors Ganesha as the “God of New Beginnings” and the “Remover of Obstacles.” He is also worshipped as the patron of wisdom, knowledge, and intellect.
During the festival, families and communities bring home idols of Ganesha, decorate pandals, offer prayers, prepare traditional sweets like modaks, and hold cultural performances. Devotees observe fasts, chant prayers, and gather at temples across India to seek his blessings. The atmosphere is filled with music, dance, and the sound of devotional chants.
Lalbaugcha Raja – The Pride of Mumbai
One of the biggest highlights of the festival is the unveiling of Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai, which took place on Sunday. The idol is more than a religious symbol; it embodies the faith, unity, and artistic brilliance of the city.
Every year, millions of devotees wait in long queues for darshan of Lalbaugcha Raja, seeking blessings for prosperity and happiness. The idol’s history goes back to 1934, when the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal was established at Putlabai Chawl. Today, it stands as one of the most visited and celebrated Ganesh idols in India.
#WATCH | Mumbai | Devotees in large numbers offer prayers at the Siddhivinayak temple on the occasion of #GaneshChaturthi2025. pic.twitter.com/gYmGFnrDw7
— ANI (@ANI) August 26, 2025
Maharashtra Declares State Festival
In July 2025, the Maharashtra government declared Ganeshotsav as the “Maharashtra State Festival,” recognizing its cultural, historical, and spiritual significance.
The roots of public Ganesh celebrations trace back to 1893, when freedom fighter and social reformer Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak popularized the festival. He transformed it from a private household celebration into a large community event, using it as a platform to unite people during India’s freedom struggle.
A Festival of Faith and Unity
Ganesh Chaturthi today is more than just a religious occasion—it represents togetherness, tradition, and community spirit. It is celebrated not only in Maharashtra but across India and in Indian communities worldwide, where Ganesha’s presence is seen as a blessing for success and prosperity.
From the streets of Mumbai to homes across the country, the chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” echo in celebration of the beloved deity.
Ganesh Chaturthi remains one of India’s most cherished festivals, blending devotion, culture, and collective faith in a way that continues to inspire millions.
Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Significance, Celebrations, and Heartfelt Wishes to Share
