Ganesh Chaturthi 2024, celebrated on September 7th, honors the auspicious birth of Lord Ganesha. This 10-day festival features lively processions, intricate rituals, and community events, bringing together devotees across India in a festive celebration of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.

Mumbai: The Epicenter of Ganesh Chaturthi Festivities

Mumbai is renowned for its grand Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, transforming the city with colorful decorations and massive Ganesha idols. The festival sees elaborate pandals across the city, including notable ones like Lalbaugcha Raja in Parel, Siddhivinayak Temple, and Khetwadi Ganraj. The immersion of idols into the Arabian Sea on the final day, known as Visarjan, is a stunning sight, with the procession from Lalbaug taking nearly 22 hours to reach Chowpatty. Festivities include vibrant dances, bhajans, and the selling of modaks, Ganesha’s favorite sweet.

• Must-visit pandals: Lalbaugcha Raja, Siddhivinayak Temple, Khetwadi Ganraj

 

Pune: The Cultural Heart of Maharashtra

Pune, often called Maharashtra’s cultural capital, celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with remarkable enthusiasm and artistry. The festival, which began during the Peshwa era, features intricately designed pandals. The city’s largest Ganpati idol, standing at 15 feet in Tulshibaug, draws huge crowds. Key sites include the Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple and Kasba Ganpati Mandir. Traditional performances using dhol, tasha, and other instruments enhance the festive experience, culminating in a visually impressive immersion ceremony.

• Must-visit pandals: Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Kasba Ganpati

 

Hyderabad: A Blend of Grandeur and Tradition

Hyderabad’s Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are notable for their grandeur and cultural diversity. The Khairatabad Ganesh, one of the tallest idols globally, is a major attraction. The city features around 75,000 Ganesh pandals, with highlights including Balapur, Chaitanyapuri, and Durgam Cheruvu. The immersion typically takes place in Hussain Sagar Lake, marking the end of the festival with a grand procession.

• Must-visit pandals: Khairatabad Ganesh, Chaitanyapuri Ganesh

 

Kolkata: Merging Bengali and Maharashtrian Traditions

Although Kolkata is better known for Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi is becoming increasingly popular. The city blends Bengali and Maharashtrian traditions, showcasing artistic and innovative idol creations and pandal decorations. Noteworthy celebrations are held at the Mudiali Club and Bagbazar Sarbojanin Durgotsav Committee, offering a unique cultural experience.

• Must-visit pandals: Kumartuli, Gariahat

Goa: A Fusion of Local and Hindu Traditions

In Goa, Ganesh Chaturthi, or “Chovoth,” is celebrated with a mix of Hindu and local customs. The festival features colorful processions, traditional music, and Goan cuisine. Major celebrations occur in Panjim and Quepem, where large idols are installed in community pandals. Traditional sweets like nevri, ladoos, and modaks are enjoyed, and various competitions and cultural events enhance the festive atmosphere.

• Must-visit pandals: Panaji, Mapusa

 

These destinations offer a rich array of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, each with its own unique customs and vibrant traditions.