By: Sarthak Kapoor
India is often called the land of festivals, and rightly so. Every celebration here is not only about rituals and traditions but also about bringing people together in a spirit of joy and togetherness. Among all, one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals is Ganesh Chaturthi, the birthday of Lord Ganesha — the beloved remover of obstacles, patron of wisdom, and harbinger of new beginnings. As an Apeejayite, reflecting on this festival is not just about describing its grandeur but also about understanding the deeper values it teaches us as students and responsible citizens.
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to mythology, Ganesha was created from sandalwood paste by Parvati and brought to life. When Lord Shiva unknowingly beheaded him, Parvati was heartbroken. To pacify her, Shiva replaced Ganesha’s head with that of an elephant, giving him a new life. This story is more than just a myth. It symbolises resilience, acceptance, and transformation — qualities we, as students, can imbibe. No matter how tough the challenges are, there is always a way forward if we remain patient and determined.
The festival usually lasts for ten days, beginning with the installation of beautifully crafted Ganesha idols in homes, schools, and community pandals. The air resonates with chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya!”, accompanied by the beats of drums, the aroma of flowers, and the sweetness of modaks — Ganesha’s favorite delicacy. On the final day, the idols are immersed in water, a ritual known as Visarjan. The immersion is not just about bidding farewell; it is about understanding the cycle of creation and dissolution, reminding us that nothing is permanent, and change is the only constant. In cities like Mumbai and Pune, the celebrations are grand, attracting lakhs of devotees. But even in small towns and families, the spirit remains just as pure and heartfelt.
Ganesh Chaturthi teaches us many values that go far beyond rituals. Lord Ganesha is revered as the God of wisdom, reminding us that education is not just about grades but about gaining knowledge that shapes our character. The collective celebrations in neighborhoods and communities show us the importance of unity and teamwork, values we practice daily in our projects and co-curricular activities at Apeejay. The creativity we see in the making of idols and decorating of pandals inspires us to think innovatively and express ourselves freely. Moreover, the growing emphasis on eco-friendly Ganesh idols made of clay, natural colors, and even seeds highlights the importance of sustainability and respect for the environment.
For me, Ganesh Chaturthi has always been more than just a festival. As a child, I remember eagerly waiting for the arrival of Ganesha in our home. The collective prayers, the laughter during prasad distribution, and the emotional farewell during visarjan always filled me with hope. Now, as a student, I see deeper meaning in these rituals. The festival teaches me to embrace new beginnings — whether it is starting a new academic year, overcoming exam stress, or pursuing a passion with determination. It also encourages me to raise my voice for sustainability by choosing eco-friendly ways to celebrate.
In today’s world, Ganesh Chaturthi has adapted to new platforms as well. Virtual aartis, online darshans, and social media campaigns for eco-friendly idols are ways in which tradition meets technology. This balance of culture and innovation makes Indian festivals timeless. Moreover, celebrations like these remind us that amidst our busy lives, it is important to pause, connect with our roots, and celebrate togetherness. In a world often divided by differences, such festivals are symbols of unity and collective faith.
Ganesh Chaturthi, therefore, is not just about worshiping a deity but about celebrating the values of wisdom, resilience, unity, creativity, and sustainability. As Apeejayites, these values resonate deeply with our school motto of being lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. As we prepare to celebrate this festival, let us carry forward not just the traditions but also the lessons it teaches. Because true devotion is not only in rituals but also in living the values of Lord Ganesha in our everyday lives.