Mumbai: Ganesh Utsav, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, will begin on Saturday, 7th September 2024, and will continue for 10 days, concluding with Visarjan on Tuesday, 17th September 2024. This festival celebrates Lord Ganesh, the revered remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom and intellect. The festivities are marked by grand celebrations, idol installations, daily prayers, and culminate in the immersion of Ganesh idols in water on Anant Chaturdashi.
The festival’s primary rituals include the installation (Sthapana) of Lord Ganesh’s idol on Ganesh Chaturthi, followed by days of worship, prayers, and offerings. On the last day, devotees bid farewell to Lord Ganesh by immersing the idol in water, symbolising the cycle of creation and dissolution.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Date and Auspicious Timings
According to the Panchang, the festival will begin on 6th September at 3:01 PM and end on 7th September at 5:37 PM. The main celebrations, however, will occur on 7th September 2024, with the Shubh Muhurat (auspicious timing) for the installation of the Ganesh idol (Sthapana) between 11:04 AM and 1:34 PM. Devotees will have 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete this sacred ritual.
How to Perform Ganesh Chaturthi Puja
To perform a proper and spiritually enriching Ganesh Chaturthi Puja, follow these essential steps:
Cleanse the worship area and the Ganesh idol with Ganga water.
Install the idol facing north or east on a clean, elevated platform.
Dress the idol in clean, new clothes.
Apply sindoor, roli, and sandalwood paste to the idol.
Offer modaks, the favourite sweet of Lord Ganesh, along with incense, lamps, and flowers.
Recite Ganesh mantras during the puja for blessings.
On the final day, perform the Visarjan ritual, symbolising the cycle of creation and dissolution.
Please note: The idol should not be moved from its place during the festival period.
Rules for Ganesh Idol Installation
To ensure a spiritually fulfilling Ganesh Utsav, follow these key guidelines:
Perform Aarti every morning and evening in front of the idol.
Offer food to Lord Ganesh at least three times a day.
If possible, observe a fast on Ganesh Chaturthi and refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food during the festival.
Offer modaks as prasad (offering) to Lord Ganesh.
Purify the area with Ganga water daily and maintain cleanliness around the idol.
Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi holds deep religious and spiritual significance in Hinduism. Lord Ganesh is honoured as the remover of obstacles, and worshipping him during this festival is believed to eliminate hindrances and bring success to life. The day is also considered auspicious for starting new ventures, seeking blessings for prosperity, and enhancing wisdom.
In addition to being the god of wisdom and intellect, Lord Ganesh is also invoked for peace and happiness. The festival fosters social unity, bringing families and communities together in joyful celebration.
Several mythological stories associated with Lord Ganesh enrich the cultural significance of Ganesh Utsav, making it a cherished tradition across India. It is not just a religious event but also a celebration of cultural togetherness, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the country.
Ganesh Utsav 2024 promises to be a time of devotion, joy, and spiritual fulfilment for millions of devotees worldwide.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 begins on 7th September and concludes on 17th September. Learn about the significance of this festival, the auspicious timings for idol installation, and the essential rituals for a successful celebration. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
