Goa Celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with Traditional Enthusiasm

Ganesh Chaturthi Festivities Begin in Goa

On Wednesday, the 10-day Ganesh Festival commenced in Goa, marked by traditional fervor and devotion. Residents across the state set up idols of Lord Ganesh in their homes.

With approximately 70% of the state's population being Hindu, this festival is celebrated in nearly every household. After bringing the idols home on Tuesday night, devotees performed rituals in the morning to welcome Lord Ganesh.

Goans working outside the state or abroad return to their ancestral villages to celebrate this festival with their families.

Public Celebrations and Messages from Officials

Numerous public groups, known as mandals, organized grand processions throughout the state, showcasing large idols of Ganesh to kick off the celebrations. Many of these mandals have planned events for the next ten days during the festival.

On the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as 'Chavath' in Goa, Governor P. Ashok Gajapati Raju and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant extended their greetings to the people and urged them to celebrate the festival in an environmentally friendly manner.

The Governor expressed, 'May this auspicious festival bring happiness, harmony, and prosperity to every home.'

Cultural Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi

Lord Ganesh, known as the remover of obstacles and the embodiment of knowledge, is revered during this time. He encouraged everyone to seek blessings for collective progress, welfare, and overcoming challenges.

The Governor emphasized that Chavath is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of our cultural heritage and family bonds.

The Chief Minister remarked that Ganesh Chaturthi is among the most significant festivals, celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy.

He noted that Ganapati Bappa is regarded as a teacher, protector, and remover of obstacles, symbolizing knowledge, virtue, and good fortune, holding a special place in the hearts of his devotees.

A Time for Reunion and Hope

Sawant mentioned that the arrival of Chavath fills people's lives with new hope and immense joy, symbolizing the reunion of families and relatives who come together to worship Lord Ganesh and celebrate traditional customs.

Archbishop Philip Neri Cardinal Ferrao of Goa and Daman extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all Hindu brothers celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi, praying for God's blessings upon them.