Mark your calendars! Ganesh Chaturthi, the vibrant festival honoring Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune, falls on Saturday, September 7th, 2024.
Why We Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi
This joyous festival commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha, believed to have occurred during the Shukla Paksha (waxing fortnight) of the Bhadrapada month in the Hindu calendar. It typically falls in August or September in the Gregorian calendar.
Festivities Spanning 10 Days
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and Ganesh Chauth, is a ten-day celebration culminating in Anant Chaturdashi, also known as Ganesh Visarjan. This final day features a grand procession where devotees immerse the Ganesha idols in a body of water, symbolizing the return of the deity to his heavenly abode.
Auspicious Timings for Ganesh Puja
Devotees traditionally perform Ganesha Puja (worship) during Madhyahna (midday), considered the most auspicious time for the ceremony according to Vedic astrology. This year, the Madhyahna Ganesha Puja Muhurat falls between 11:03 AM and 01:34 PM on September 7th.
Avoiding the Moon on Chaturthi Tithi
Hindu tradition advises against sighting the moon during the Chaturthi Tithi (lunar day) associated with Ganesh Chaturthi. This year, the Chaturthi Tithi begins at 3:01 PM on September 6th and ends at 5:37 PM on September 7th. It’s best to avoid moon sighting throughout this period to prevent “Mithya Dosham” (false accusation).
Celebrating with Joy and Tradition
Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant occasion filled with devotional rituals, colorful decorations, and joyous community gatherings. So, join in the festivities, welcome the blessings of Lord Ganesha, and celebrate wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune!