Auckland Marathi Association celebrated ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’ on September 19, marking the birth of the Remover of all obstacles with piety and in a festive atmosphere.
The annual Festival, now in its 15th year, was held in the true spirit, brings back memories back home in Maharashtra, India. A large number of men, women and children were present at the event held at the Halsey Drive Primary School.
It was a colourful atmosphere with many devotees attired in their typical Maharashtrian saree and jewellery. Prakash Joshi led the Pooja as those present chanted hymns in praise of Lord Ganesha.
The programme reflected the inherent talent among the younger members of the community as they presented items of entertainment to befit the occasion. The enthusiasm of children as young as two years was inspiring.
As per tradition, devotees bid farewell to their favourite Lord, saying, ‘Pudhchya Varshi Laukar Ya’ (‘Come early next year’).
Ganesh Chaturthi is observed in the Hindu calendar month of Bhaadrapad.
Hindus worship Lord Ganesha for ten days from ‘Bhadrapad Shudh Chaturthi’ to ‘Ananta Chaturdasi.’
In 1894, Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, one of the greatest leaders of India, who was also a freedom fighter and social reformist, transformed this essentially household festivity of Ganesha into Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav (All People’s Event).
The jubilation of the festival can be experienced while standing on the streets, beaches and other places in Maharashtra.
As a majority of households worship the Lord, Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most important festivals in the State. Hundreds of thousands of people would join in the final procession shouting ‘Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Laukar Ya.’
Neha Chitre is Public Relations Officer of the Auckland Marathi Association. The above is an edited version of her original report.