Ganesh Chaturthi 2024, Know Date, Time and Rituals to be Performed [Current Affairs]

Ganesh Chaturthi is a major Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity. In 2024, Ganesh Chaturthi falls on September 7 and will be celebrated with grand festivities across India, particularly in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat. Devotees bring home idols of Lord Ganesha, perform prayers, and offer special bhog. The festival spans 10 days, concluding with Ganesh Visarjan.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 – Date and Timings

Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 falls on September 7, with the Chaturthi Tithi starting on September 6 at 3:01 pm and ending on September 7 at 5:37 pm. The shubh muhurat for Ganesh Puja will be from 11:03 am to 1:34 pm on September 7, though timings may vary by city.

Origin and Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi

The origins of Ganesh Chaturthi can be traced back to the 17th century during the Maratha Empire. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj initially celebrated the festival to promote nationalism and unity. However, the festival gained widespread popularity during the British colonial era, thanks to freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who used it to rally people for the independence movement.

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, created by Goddess Parvati. Lord Ganesha is known as the ‘Vighnaharta’ or remover of obstacles. He is worshipped for wisdom, intellect, and new beginnings, and devotees seek his blessings for success in their ventures and education.

Rituals and Celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi 2024

Ganesh Chaturthi is marked by vibrant and enthusiastic celebrations, bringing communities together in joyous reverence. Here’s how devotees celebrate this auspicious festival:

• Preparation and Rituals: The day begins with devotees waking up early, bathing, and wearing clean clothes to start the day with purity. The idol of Lord Ganesha is placed on a raised platform (chowki) decorated with red or yellow cloth, symbolizing auspiciousness.
• Offerings and Worship: Devotees offer prayers and various items to the deity, including Ganga Jal (sacred water), diya (lamp), haldi-kumkum tilak (auspicious mark), Laddo or Modak (sweet dumplings), flowers, and fruits. The surroundings are adorned with decorations to create a festive atmosphere.
• Puja (Worship) Ceremony: The puja begins with the chanting of “Om Gan Ganpataye Namah” followed by recitations from sacred texts and the singing of devotional songs (bhajan kirtan). The rituals are performed to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for prosperity and success.
• Community and Temple Visits: For those unable to celebrate at home, visiting temples and participating in communal festivities are encouraged. This allows individuals to join in the celebrations and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha.