The vibrant city of Surat has embraced the festive spirit with gusto as the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi begins, bringing with it a sense of unity, joy, and reverence. The streets resonated with enthusiastic chants of “Ganpati Bappa Moriya” and “Addha Laddu Choriya,” as devotees carried idols of Lord Ganesha to their homes or communal pavilions for the celebration that officially commenced today.
For the past two to three weeks, the anticipation for Shreeji's arrival has been building up in Surat, culminating today with the animated and heartfelt procession of devotees eager to usher Bapa into their homes and pavilions, a tradition upheld with great fervor on Ganesh Chaturthi. The bustling activity stretched from early morning to late evening as families and communities gathered to participate in the celebrations with undiminished enthusiasm.
A noticeable trend this year has been a conscious move towards environmental preservation, with a significant number of devotees opting for eco-friendly clay idols instead of the traditional plaster of Paris alternatives. This switch not only marks an acknowledgment of the festival’s potential environmental impact but also represents a collective step towards more sustainable celebratory practices.
Ganesh Mandals across the city are also ready to infuse the festival with a sense of service and devotion. Apart from engaging in puja and aarti rituals, these groups plan to undertake various service initiatives, showcasing the altruistic spirit of the celebration that goes hand in hand with spiritual reverence.
With the streets adorned with a multitude of Ganesha likenesses, and the air filled with devotional songs and the rhythmic beat of musical instruments, the city bore witness to an atmosphere of harmony and joy. Idol makers in many parts of the city facilitated personalized puja and aarti ceremonies for the devotees, who then proceeded to carry the blessed idols amidst a vibrant procession tinged with musical fervor.
As Surat immerses itself in the Ganeshotsav festivities, the sense of community and shared joy is palpable. The air vibrates with excitement and the harmonious spirit of togetherness, as the city comes together to welcome Lord Ganesha into their homes and hearts, signifying the commencement of a festival marked by devotion, unity, and an elevated sense of environmental responsibility.
