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Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Ganesha, known as the Lord of Beginnings. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva blessed Ganesha and instructed devotees to worship him before any other god or before starting anything new. This is why, in India, people often say the phrase "Shree Ganesh" before beginning an activity, as it represents positivity and asks for his blessings.
History: Becoming a Mass Festival
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated across India, but the way it's celebrated in Maharashtra is unique. Originally, it was not a major tradition in Maharashtra until the Maratha period. It was a private affair until freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak transformed it into a public event to unite people against British rule. Tilak reinvented Ganesh Chaturthi in 1893, turning it from a family celebration into a large public festival, promoting national unity.
Rituals & Meaning
Ganesh Chaturthi begins with the installation of Lord Ganesha's clay idols (murtis) in homes and public spaces called pandals (decorative tents) and lasts for 11 days. For the next 10 days, the idol is worshipped, an aarti is sung every evening, followed by other cultural events. People also offer Modak, a sweet dish made with coconut and jaggery, believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite food.
The festival concludes on the 11th day with Anant Chaturdashi (Ganesh Visarjan), a grand farewell ceremony where the idols are carried to local rivers, oceans, or other water bodies, along with celebrations filled with dance, music, and a lot of joy and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, people pray for Lord Ganesha’s early return the following year by chanting "Ganpati Bappa Morya, Agle Baras Tu Jaldi Aa" which means "Come soon next year."
The act of immersion represents the circle of life as the idols dissolve in the water. It signifies that the universe is in a constant state of change and that eventually, everything returns to formlessness.
More than just a festival, Ganesh Chaturthi is also a social and community event that brings people together to sing, dance, and pray. To add an extra spark to your celebrations, here is a perfect playlist of 10 songs for this Ganesh Chaturthi:
1. Deva Shree Ganesha | Agneepath | 2012
This energetic song celebrates Lord Ganesha’s greatness. Its grand melody and lively rhythm highlight how having Lord Ganesha in your heart gives you strength and helps you overcome challenges. Learn to dance with your friends for extra fun while welcoming Lord Ganesha.
2. Shendur Laal Chadhayo | Vaastav | 1999
This devotional song is a traditional Sanskrit aarti dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The simple melody and lyrics express deep respect, praising him as the powerful remover of obstacles who grants joy and wisdom. Learn to play this on the keyboard for the evening aarti to express your devotion to Lord Ganesha.
3. Sadda Dil Vi Tu | ABCD | 2013
This upbeat song celebrates Lord Ganesha as the bringer of joy and blessings. With its energetic rhythm and catchy melody, it’s perfect for dancing. Learn the dance steps for this song and spread the festive joy.
4. Shree Ganeshay Dheemahi | Viruddh | 2005
This sacred song is based on an ancient Sanskrit hymn that highlights Lord Ganesha's importance in various aspects of life, including music, wisdom, and guidance. Learn to play it on the guitar and get everyone chanting along this Ganesh Chaturthi.
5. O My Friend Ganesha | My Friend Ganesha | 2007
This nostalgic song celebrates Lord Ganesha as a beloved friend. Its soothing melody and lyrics express a deep wish for Lord Ganesha to always be a friend and a source of joy. Learn to sing this song on the ukulele and share it with friends to bring back happy childhood memories.
6. Hey Ganaraya | ABCD 2 | 2015
This dynamic song stands out with its unique blend of Indian classical beats and notes, combining devotional lyrics with complex rhythms, making it both spiritually uplifting and rhythmically engaging. Learn to dance to this song and lose yourself in the festive spirit.
7. Gajanana | Bajirao Mastani | 2015
This powerful song celebrates Lord Ganesha's strength and qualities. The lively rhythm and grand melody highlight his role as the remover of obstacles and giver of joy. Learn the dance moves to this song to have even more fun at the occasion.
8. Deva Ho Deva | Humse Badhkar Kaun | 1981
This cult song praises Lord Ganesha’s supreme power and the unique blessings he gives to his devotees. The catchy melody and lively beat make it perfect for a Ganesh Chaturthi playlist. Learn to play it on the guitar and enjoy this festival.
9. Shambhu Sutaya | ABCD | 2013
This uplifting song celebrates Lord Ganesha’s arrival as a source of prosperity, progress, and joy. The lyrics express a strong desire to always keep him in sight. Learn to move along with this song to add extra energy to your celebration.
10. Mourya Re | Don | 2006
This vibrant song highlights the importance of Lord Ganesha’s presence for peace and joy in life. The lyrics express a deep desire for Ganesha’s return and blessings. Learn the dance steps to this song to add a burst of energy and give Lord Ganesha a memorable farewell on Anant Chaturdashi.
May Lord Ganesha bless you and your family with prosperity and wisdom. As you enjoy this Ganesh Chaturthi, don’t forget to add these must-have songs to your playlist. Learn to sing, dance, and chant along with everyone...
Ganpati Bappa Morya!!!