Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, honours the birth of Lord Ganesha, the God of wisdom, prosperity and the remover of obstacles. On 7th September, communities come together in vibrant displays of devotion, with rituals, prayers, and the installation of beautifully crafted Ganesha idols.
At the Asia Scotland Institute, we extend our best wishes to everyone observing Ganesh Chaturthi. This joyous occasion is a time to reflect on new beginnings and perseverance, values that resonate with people of all cultures.
What is Ganesh Chaturthi?
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity worshipped for his ability to remove obstacles and bring success. The festival lasts for ten days, starting on the fourth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (typically in August or September). In 2024, it falls on 7th September.
Throughout India, homes and public spaces are adorned with intricate idols of Ganesha, and families offer prayers (pujas), seeking his blessings for prosperity and success in the coming year.
The Cultural Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi
While it is celebrated across India, Ganesh Chaturthi is particularly significant in the state of Maharashtra, where the festival is observed with grand processions, music, and dance. It has evolved from a private family celebration to a major public event, symbolising unity and community spirit.
For Hindus worldwide, Ganesh Chaturthi is a time to invoke Lord Ganesha’s guidance in overcoming personal challenges, making it an important spiritual celebration in the Hindu calendar.
Ganesh Chaturthi and Scotland: A Growing Tradition
Scotland’s Hindu community celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with prayers and events at local temples, including the Edinburgh Hindu Mandir and the Glasgow Hindu Temple. These celebrations highlight the diversity and vibrancy of Scotland’s multicultural landscape, drawing together people from all walks of life.
The Asia Scotland Institute is proud to witness the growing cultural exchange between India and Scotland, with festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi fostering a deeper understanding of Hindu traditions among Scottish residents.
Traditions and Celebrations
During Ganesh Chaturthi, clay idols of Lord Ganesha are worshipped in homes and public spaces. On the final day, the idols are carried in a procession and immersed in water, symbolising the cycle of creation and dissolution. The festival ends with the chant, “Ganapati Bappa Morya,” as devotees bid farewell to the deity, asking him to return the following year.
Many also take this time to prepare traditional sweets like modaks (steamed dumplings filled with coconut and jaggery), which are said to be Ganesha’s favourite.
A Message for the Future
As we observe Ganesh Chaturthi, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the power of community and the importance of overcoming life’s obstacles. Whether in India or Scotland, the festival offers a reminder that perseverance and unity can help us navigate life’s challenges.
At the Asia Scotland Institute, we encourage all to celebrate the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi and embrace its message of new beginnings. Ganapati Bappa Morya!
