Today, September 14, 2026, marks Ganesh Chaturthi, one of India’s most vibrant and widely celebrated Hindu festivals.

The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved deity associated with wisdom, prosperity and the removal of obstacles. Across the country, devotees are welcoming Lord Ganesha into their homes and community pandals with prayers, devotion and festive celebrations.

Ganesh Chaturthi is observed on the fourth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. The celebrations traditionally continue for several days, with devotees offering prayers, flowers, sweets and especially modaks, which are considered one of Lord Ganesha’s favourite offerings.

Maharashtra is renowned for its grand celebrations, particularly in Mumbai and Pune, where enormous idols, beautifully decorated pandals, cultural programmes and processions attract thousands of devotees. However, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with equal enthusiasm in many other parts of India and among Indian communities around the world.

A major highlight of the festival is Ganesh Visarjan, when devotees carry the idol in colourful processions before immersing it in water. The ritual symbolises the cycle of birth and dissolution and reminds devotees to accept change while carrying Lord Ganesha’s blessings in their hearts.

In recent years, eco-friendly celebrations have also gained importance. Many families and organisers are choosing clay idols and natural decorations to reduce the environmental impact of idol immersion and festival celebrations.

More than a religious celebration, Ganesh Chaturthi is a time for families and communities to come together. It represents hope, positivity and new beginnings.

As India celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 today, homes and streets are filled with devotion and the joyful chant of “Ganpati Bappa Morya!” The festival reminds us to welcome new beginnings with faith, wisdom and courage.