The air is filled with excitement as India prepares to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. The festival, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
Across several states, schools are closed to allow students and families to partake in the festivities. Maharashtra has declared Ganeshotsav as a state festival, resulting in school closures across the state, including Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Pune. States like Goa, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh are also likely to observe school holidays. However, students and parents are advised to confirm the holiday status with their respective schools, as policies can vary even within the same state.
Mumbai, in particular, is gearing up for grand celebrations. The city is home to some of the most iconic Ganesha pandals, attracting lakhs of devotees. Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, one of the most popular Ganesh idols in Mumbai, is celebrating its 92nd year. This year, the theme revolves around the Tirupati Balaji deity. GSB Seva Mandal Ganpati is another major attraction, known as Mumbai's richest Ganpati, adorned with 69 kg of gold and 336 kg of silver. Mumbaicha Raja in Ganesh Galli, Lalbaug, has created a 22-foot idol and follows the theme of Rameshwaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. Andhericha Raja, known as “Navasala Pavnata Ganpati,” is famous for fulfilling wishes and hosts its idol for 15 days. Raja Tejukayacha is using eco-friendly materials like paper and coconut husk to create a 22-foot warrior avatar of Ganpati Bappa.
Devotees have begun preparations, cleaning their homes and decorating them with flowers and lights. The installation of Ganesha idols is a significant ritual, with the most auspicious time for Ganesh Puja being the Madhyahna Muhurat, between 11:05 AM and 1:40 PM on August 27. During this time, people offer sweets like modaks, Ganesha's favorite, and sing devotional songs and aartis.
The festival lasts for 10 days, culminating in Ganesh Visarjan on Saturday, September 6, where the idols are immersed in water. The Chaturthi Tithi begins on August 26 at 1:54 PM and ends on August 27 at 3:44 PM. It is advised to avoid moon sighting during this period to prevent "Mithya Dosha".
Ganesh Chaturthi is not just a religious festival; it is a time for community unity, cultural connection, and personal reflection. People come together to celebrate, pray, and enjoy the festive spirit. The festival gained popularity due to the efforts of freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who revived the observance of Ganesh Utsav in Maharashtra.
As Mumbai and other states gear up to welcome Bappa, the spirit of devotion and joy is palpable. From elaborate pandals to simple home celebrations, Ganesh Chaturthi brings people together in a shared celebration of faith and culture.
