India, particularly Mumbai, has geared up with full zeal and enthusiasm for the 10-day mammoth religious festival, Shree Ganesh Mahotsav, on the eve of ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’.  The fest is also known as ‘Vinayaka Chaturthi’ which is one of the names of Lord Ganesha. Commencing on 7th September (Chaturthi), the set festivities will continue till September 17 (Chaturdashi).  

Devotees have installed idols of Lord Ganesha in their homes, temples, and community areas with a firm belief that commonly known as “Bappa” (Lord Ganesha) will bless them and sweep away all hindrances from their ways and means. They have decorated the diverse areas of worship- may these be their homes, open areas, temples, huge pandals etc with offering-related materials. 

On the tenth day, the idols are carried in a public procession with music and chanting of slogans “Ganpati Bappa Moriya” for immersion (Visarjana) in a nearby body of water. Near 2 lakh such idols are immersed in Mumbai alone. 

 Generally, people get idols made of indestructible matter including Plaster of Paris; however, this time devotees have preferred Lord Ganesha’s eco-friendly idols with bio-degradable material like paper, dried grass, paper napkins and more, to avoid water pollution and to see easy submerging of the idols during immersion time. On one of the idols’ stalls, run by a woman, In Goregaon West of the city at its sidewalk, numerous such idols were visible. She was also seen awakening customers about this and guiding them to perform the rituals on the eco-friendly ‘Ganesha’ formations. 

The immersion (Visarjan) ritual signifies the birth cycle of Lord Ganesha, as a teaching to all and sundry. The idol is immersed in water so that ‘He’ may return to ‘His’ celestial abode after ‘His’ stay at the devotees’ home or other place.  On the last day, the devotees come out in processions carrying the idols of Ganesha for immersion. As such, devotees, after days of fervent prayers and celebrations, bid adieu to their beloved deity. 

Moreover, in the present day, celebrations also see pomp and show by witnessing grand pandals, DJs, orchestra, dances, competitions, firecrackers and much more. However, a visit to Cooperative Housing Society Gowardhangiri, again in Goregaon, the true essence of this festival was visible, where women and children under the patronage of older ones could be seen absorbing the real spirit under all softness needed for the fest.  

At a time of mythological, religious, historical, cultural and national importance, this fest is significant for all.  The initial motive behind this was unity- to be gained by gathering people of all sections under a single banner to have independence from foreign oppressors. Till today, everyone celebrates it regardless of their faith. Undoubtedly, Mumbai’s most famous and most visited Ganesh Idol in Mumbai is the king of Lalbaugcha (The Lalbaugcha Raja). It has more than one crore devotees, including many Bollywood stars.  

As per the religious perspective, it is dedicated to the birth of Ganesh ji that removes the obstacles. It is believed that during these 10 days, Ganesh ji visits the earth and blesses the devotees to get free from sin and to live with positive energy. Further, Ganesh Ji is regarded as a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and wealth and is worshipped as the God of any initiation or beginning.  

Traditionally, Ganesh Chaturthi has been part of Indian culture since the rule of King Chhatrapati Shivaji. It also has roots in the British realm when Lokmanya Tilak urged people to make it a grand public festival instead of a private celebration. Thus making it a symbol of national unity. From social to spiritual, this fest spreads messages of love, unity, and wisdom.  

Representing Ganesha, the Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai is a popular and cherished Hindu temple, known for granting blessings and removing obstacles in people’s lives. The temple has a unique idol of Lord Ganesha with its trunk curved towards the right, which is considered very auspicious. Today, the Siddhivinayak Temple is a symbol of faith, devotion, and fulfilment of aspirations. It is a significant religious and cultural landmark in Mumbai, drawing millions of devotees.