Bhubaneswar, Aug 27: Time keeps changing and with time we go trough many hurdles but Lord Ganesh arrives as the remover of those obstacles, ushering in a wave of success, peace, and prosperity for all.

From intricately decorated mandaps to eco-friendly idols, the festival of 'Ganesh Chaturthi' is here to shed a light of hopes and new opportunities.

According to the Drik Panchang, Ganesha Chaturthi will be celebrated today (August 27) this year. The day of Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning of festivities that last for 10-12 days, ending with the immersion of Lord Ganesha's idol in water.

Lord Ganesha is worshipped with all sixteen rituals along with chanting of Puranik Mantras during Ganesha Chaturthi Puja, which is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi Puja.

The festival is celebrated for ten days by Hindus throughout India, with particular prominence in the states of Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

What makes this year’s celebration especially meaningful is the growing embrace of eco-friendly practices. Artisans have turned to clay and natural dyes, and many pandals have adopted sustainable themes, reminding devotees that honoring the divine also means caring for the Earth.

Significance
It is said that Lord Ganesha was born from the divine essence of Goddess Parvati, who fashioned him from the sacred paste she used during her bath. She entrusted him with a simple yet firm command: guard the entrance and allow no one to enter while she bathed.

Unaware of this, Lord Shiva returned home and was stopped by the young Ganesha, who stood his ground with unwavering devotion. Enraged by the obstruction and not recognizing the boy, Shiva, in a moment of fury, severed Ganesha’s head.

When Parvati emerged and saw what had happened, her grief was immeasurable. She demanded that Shiva restore her son to life. Moved by her anguish, Shiva sent his followers to find the head of the first living creature they encountered — an elephant. He placed the elephant’s head upon Ganesha’s body and breathed life into him once more.

Thus, Lord Ganesha was reborn — not only as Parvati’s beloved son but also as the revered deity known for his wisdom, strength, and role as the remover of obstacles.