Ganpati Bappa Morya

I was back from a week long vacation to my native on Sunday, and had been busy visiting friends for Ganpati for last two days. Better late than never, here is my post on Ganesh Chaturthi.
Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated on the 4th day of Bhaadrapada maas(month) of Hindu calendar, commemorates the birthday of Lord Ganesha. The fesitival lasts for 10 days and ends on Anant chaturdashi. It is believed that Lord Ganesha bestows his presence on earth for all his devotees during this festival.

During the festival, artistic clay models of Lord Ganesha, beautifully decorated and depicting his vivid poses are installed at houses or at temporarily erected structure(mandap) in any locality. Special pooja(worship) is performed everyday and cultural activites are organised at mandaps. The festival ends by immersing the idol in lake or sea. Devotees immerse the idol chanting Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Yaa, asking him to come back next year.

Today is Anant Chaturdashi, end of Ganesha festival. Here are few pics of the Ganpatis we visited in last 10days...

Replica of Konark Temple, Orissa at one of my friend's house



  

Traditional Ganpathi rituals at neighbour's house