Ajit Kumar
Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most beloved Hindu festivals, will be celebrated this year on 27th August 2025. The day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The festival marks the beginning of a 10-day celebration during which devotees welcome Lord Ganesha into their homes, pandals, and temples with great devotion and enthusiasm.
It is believed that during this period, Lord Ganesha descends to earth and resides with his devotees. In homes, colonies, and temples, beautifully decorated pandals are set up and idols of Ganesha are installed. For ten days, worship rituals, bhajans, devotional songs, and cultural activities continue with full fervor. Special offerings of sweets, especially modaks—the favorite delicacy of Ganesha—are prepared and offered. On the final day, known as Anant Chaturdashi, the idols are taken out in grand processions for Ganesh Visarjan (immersion), symbolizing the return of the deity to his divine abode.
Ganesh Chaturthi is not only a spiritual occasion but also a cultural festival that unites people across regions. With the advent of digital communication, many people who are unable to physically gather with family and friends share their joy through WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram by sending greetings and auspicious messages. Starting the day with the name of Lord Ganesha is believed to bring blessings and happiness to loved ones.
When one thinks of Ganesh Chaturthi, the grandeur of Mumbai’s iconic pandals and celebrations often comes to mind. However, in recent times, Odisha has also emerged as a prominent center of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The devotion, creativity, and cultural vibrancy with which the festival is celebrated in Odisha are comparable to the enthusiasm seen in Maharashtra. The festival is observed on the Chaturthi of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha as per the Odia calendar, making it one of the most significant days for welcoming Lord Ganesha into the hearts and homes of devotees.
In Odisha, the streets, neighborhoods, and pandals come alive with joyous devotees, music, and decorations. The festival is celebrated with equal fervor across all sections of society, making it a true cultural unifier. Major cities such as Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Brahmapur, and Talcher are known for their grand and elaborately decorated pandals. Many of these pandals gain popularity for their creative idol designs, unique themes, artistic decorations, and vibrant lighting displays.
Beyond religious rituals, Ganesh Chaturthi in Odisha also features cultural programs, devotional concerts, traditional Odia folk performances, and children’s games. Local markets bustle with activity as people shop for decorative items, traditional foods, and festive essentials. Special events such as Meena bazaars and entertainment stalls add a carnival-like atmosphere to the occasion. Educational institutions, public organizations, and residential colonies actively participate, further strengthening the community spirit.
Thus, Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 is not just a religious observance but also a grand cultural event that fosters unity, devotion, creativity, and joy. Whether celebrated in the bustling lanes of Mumbai or the vibrant streets of Odisha, the festival remains a symbol of faith, festivity, and the collective spirit of the people.
