The air is filled with devotion and festive cheer as India celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi 2025. The festival, marking the birth of Lord Ganesha, the deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune, sees devotees bringing Ganpati idols to their homes and pandals, offering prayers, sweets, and celebrating with music and dance. Celebrities from Bollywood and beyond are also joining in the celebrations, sharing glimpses of their festivities and extending warm wishes to their fans.

Among those celebrating is celebrity chef Harpal Singh Sokhi, known for his culinary expertise and his signature phrase "Namak Shamak". Sokhi finds deep spiritual and personal meaning in Ganesh Chaturthi. He cherishes celebrating Bappa at home with family rituals passed down through generations. Sokhi emphasizes the festival's unifying power, bringing communities together and fostering a sense of joy.

Sokhi's celebrations begin at home, a tradition passed down from his mother. He recalls how his mother would arrange the entire ritual with a thali filled with flowers, modaks, and laddoos, performing prayers every day. He fondly remembers participating in these rituals with her and now cherishes seeing his own daughter continue the tradition. He feels that during these days, the Lord resides in his home and in his child.

When asked about his wish from Bappa this year, Harpal's answer reflects his simplicity and depth. "My only prayer to Bappa is for more peace in the world, fewer calamities, and more humanity. If we have that, everything else will follow," he stated.

Echoing Sokhi's sentiments, numerous other celebrities have shared their Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The Khan family, including Salman Khan, continued their tradition of welcoming Ganpati at Arpita Khan's home. Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani hosted a lavish celebration at their home, with many members of the entertainment industry in attendance. Kareena Kapoor Khan shared a picture of her son Taimur praying in front of their Ganpati idol. Soha Ali Khan, along with her husband Kunal Kemmu and daughter Inaaya, visited a temple and also made a special eco-friendly Ganesha idol. Ananya Panday celebrated with her family, sharing photos on Instagram. Sachin Tendulkar and his family also came together to celebrate and welcome Ganesha.

The festival is not just about grand celebrations; it's also about faith and tradition. Many emphasize the importance of preserving the traditions associated with Ganesh Chaturthi. The intergenerational spirit of Ganesh Utsav is proof that traditions remain strong, with celebrations involving everyone from children to the elderly.

Ganesh Chaturthi is seen as a time to invite peace, abundance, and wisdom into one's life. It is believed that celebrating with the right intention and rituals can help clear obstacles and unlock possibilities. Some suggest chanting the mantra "Om gan ganpataye namah" 108 times to connect with Lord Ganesha. Offering 21 durva (blades of durva grass) with a clear conscience and the right intention is also considered significant. The modak, a special sweet enjoyed during the festival, symbolizes offering one's ego in return for divine sweetness and blessings.

As the celebrations continue, the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared devotion. The prayer for peace, fewer calamities, and more humanity resonates deeply during this auspicious time.