Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday conveyed warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, praying for happiness, peace, and well-being for all devotees.
In a message on X, PM Modi wrote, “Heartfelt Ganesh Chaturthi wishes to all of you. May this sacred occasion filled with devotion and faith bring auspiciousness to everyone. I pray to Lord Gajanana that He blesses all His devotees with happiness, peace, and excellent health. Ganpati Bappa Morya!”
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayak Chavithi, celebrates Lord Ganesha as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and new beginnings. The festival is marked with decorated idols at homes and pandals, prayers, music, processions, and festive delicacies.
In Mumbai, thousands of devotees thronged the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganpati Temple to offer prayers. Another major highlight was the unveiling of the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja idol, a symbol of faith and artistic excellence, which attracts millions of visitors each year.
The Lalbaugcha Raja tradition, overseen by the Kambli family for over eight decades, dates back to 1934 under the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal.
In recognition of its cultural significance, the Maharashtra government recently declared public Ganeshotsav the official “Maharashtra State Festival.” Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar recalled that the tradition was popularised in 1893 by Lokmanya Tilak to unite people under a common cultural celebration.
