Ganesh Chaturthi, this year, will commence on August 27, and the entire nation gets together to celebrate the festivity.
It can be certainly said that only a few festivals of India can match up to the scale, spirit, and splendour of Ganesh Chaturthi. The festival, a 10-day celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesha, will kick off this year on August 27. Lord Ganesha, who is known as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom, unites millions across the country in community spirit. Ganesh Chaturthi is undoubtedly one of India’s largest public festivals, and it is celebrated across, from Mumbai’s dazzling pandals to Madurai’s traditional processions.
No city can embody the grandeur of Ganesh Chaturthi much like Mumbai. With thousands of sarvajanik mandals (community-organised installations), Mumbai is known for its vibrant stage and spectacle. Most of us are aware of the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja, Mumbai’s “king of Ganeshas,” who attracts lakhs of devotees to seek blessings. Another famous one is Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja, and its elaborate thematic decorations. The collective cry of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” along with street processions, devotional songs, turn the city into a city-wide carnival.
Pune is known for Ganesh Chaturthi’s roots. Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak was the one who popularised the public celebration in Pune in the late 19th century. Now the city’s Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati is one of the most revered idols in India, and is visited by devotees nationwide. The city’s celebrations focus on cultural programmes, from classical music, theatre, to devotional performances.
While Maharashtra dominates Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, Tamil Nadu too observes Ganesh Chaturthi with equal reverence. In Madurai, it takes on a distinctly Dravidian flavour. Idols are crafted from clay and turmeric, with special offerings of modakam (a steamed dumpling). Elaborate temple processions too are part of the southern style of celebration. In Chennai, community events are organised and an eco-friendly celebration is emphasized upon.
Karnataka: Mysuru hosts grand processions on the occasion, and the idols are installed in heritage temples.
Goa: Families celebrate in their homes, with idols made of naturally sourced clay.
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Hyderabad’s Khairatabad Ganesh draws lakhs of visitors each year.
Beyond religious devotion, Ganesh Chaturthi is a cultural event. The festival too sparks conversations about eco-conscious celebrations. So whether it’s the towering idols of Mumbai, or the gold-adorned deity of Pune, Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 will once again merge faith with community spirit.