Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: History, Rituals & Best Pandals to Visit

Ganesh Chaturthi, also called Vinayaka Chaturthi, is one of the most loved Hindu festivals in India. It celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. In 2025, the festival will be celebrated from Wednesday, 27 August to Saturday, 6 September. The celebrations last for 10 days and end with Ganesh Visarjan, when idols of Lord Ganesha are immersed in water, marking his journey back to Mount Kailash.

During these days, people bring Ganesha idols to their homes or visit beautifully decorated pandals to offer prayers. Devotees perform rituals, chant hymns, and offer sweets, especially modaks, which are believed to be Ganesha’s favourite. The festival is celebrated with great joy across India, especially in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and many other states. Today, it is not just a religious festival but also a cultural event that brings people together in devotion, music, dance, and celebration.

History and Significance

Its traces go back to ancient India, where historical records suggest that public celebrations of the festival took place during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great founder of the Maratha Empire. The celebrations took prominence to promote culture and a sense of unity among people.

However, the great freedom fighter, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, transformed Ganesh Chaturthi and made into a large celebrative event in 1893. At that time, public gatherings were highly discouraged by British authorities in the subcontinent. Tilak saw it as an opportunity to rebel against the rulings and bring Hindus together from different castes and communities under one common cause to devote to nationalism. Tilak’s great efforts turned a private, household celebration into a grand public festival, especially in Maharashtra, where this tradition continues with enthusiasm.

Lord Ganesha is considered the embodiment of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping him at the start of any new venture ensures success and removes obstacles. It is also believed that Lord Ganesha was born during the bright half of the lunar month Bhadrapada, which falls between August and September, making this period highly auspicious.

Rituals and Traditions

The celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi are filled with devotion, joy, and togetherness, as families and communities come together to honour Lord Ganesha. The festival follows a series of important rituals that are performed with great faith and enthusiasm. These include the installation of Ganesha idols in homes and public pandals, the chanting of mantras to invoke divine presence, daily prayers and offerings of sweets like modaks, and devotional songs and aartis that create a lively spiritual atmosphere. Each ritual carries deep cultural and spiritual significance, making the festival not just a time of worship but also a celebration of unity, tradition, and community spirit. The key rituals and traditions include:

Pranapratishtha

Pranapratishtha marks the beginning of Ganesh Chaturthi, when beautifully handcrafted idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in homes, temples, and elaborately decorated pandals (temporary structures). Through this ritual, devotees invoke life into the idols with sacred chants and mantras. It is usually performed on the first day of the festival, whether privately at home or in grand public celebrations. Once Pranapratishtha is complete, the idol is treated with the same love and respect as a divine guest, with prayers, offerings, and devotion continuing until the final day of Visarjan.

Shodashopachara Puja

After Pranapratishtha, the next important ritual is the Shodashopachara Puja, which means the “16 forms of offering.” In this puja, devotees honour Lord Ganesha with sixteen traditional steps of worship, starting from offering flowers, lighting lamps, and applying sandalwood paste, to presenting fruits, sweets, and especially modaks, which are believed to be Ganesha’s favourite. Each step of the puja is performed with devotion, symbolising gratitude, respect, and love for the deity.

Daily Prayers and Offerings

During Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees perform daily prayers (aarti) in the morning and evening, chanting bhajans and hymns in praise of Lord Ganesha. Offerings of flowers, fruits, coconut, and especially modaks are made to the idol, as they are believed to be his favourite sweet. Families and communities gather around the idol to sing, clap, and celebrate together, creating an atmosphere of devotion and joy. These daily rituals continue throughout the festival, keeping the spiritual energy alive until the day of Visarjan.

Uttarpuja

Uttarpuja is the ritual performed before the Visarjan of Lord Ganesha’s idol. It is done to bid farewell to the deity with love and respect. In this puja, devotees thank Lord Ganesha for visiting their homes and blessing them during the festival. They seek his continued guidance and request him to return the following year. Only after performing Uttarpuja is the idol taken for immersion, marking the symbolic departure of Lord Ganesha to his heavenly abode.

Ganesh Visarjan

Ganesh Visarjan marks the conclusion of Ganesh Chaturthi, when the idol of Lord Ganesha is immersed in a river, sea, or lake. Devotees carry the idol in colourful processions with music, dance, and chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya.” The immersion symbolises Lord Ganesha’s return to Mount Kailash, taking away obstacles and misfortunes with him. While the farewell is emotional, it is also filled with joy and hope, as devotees believe that Ganesha will return the following year to bless them again.

Best Pandals to Visit

During the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, Mumbai becomes the heart of celebrations, famous for its grand, artistic, and larger-than-life pandals. Every year, millions of devotees and tourists flock to the city to witness the beautifully decorated idols and take part in the festive spirit. These pandals are not just places of worship but also centres of culture, creativity, and community gathering, where people come together to pray, celebrate, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Some of the most renowned and must-visit pandals in Mumbai are:

Lalbaugcha Raja

Lalbaugcha Raja is Mumbai’s most iconic Ganesh pandal, established in 1934 and fondly known as the “King of Lalbaug.” Every year, millions of devotees visit this pandal, believing that their wishes will be fulfilled by Lord Ganesha. The idol, crafted in a majestic sitting posture, has remained almost unchanged for decades, making it one of the most recognisable symbols of Ganesh Chaturthi. Despite the long queues that often stretch for kilometres, people eagerly wait for hours to seek blessings, and the atmosphere of devotion, chanting, and celebration makes the experience truly unforgettable.

Mumbaicha Raja (Ganesh Galli)

Mumbaicha Raja (Ganesh Galli) is another famous pandal in Mumbai, located close to Lalbaugcha Raja. Established in 1928, it is known for its creative and elaborate themes, often replicating famous temples and historical monuments from across India. Every year, the organisers surprise devotees with grand decorations that make the pandal a major attraction during Ganesh Chaturthi. The idol of Lord Ganesha here is equally magnificent, and thousands of visitors flock daily to witness the artistry, devotion, and vibrant cultural programs that bring the celebrations to life.

Khetwadi Ganraj

Khetwadi Ganraj is one of the most iconic and oldest pandals in Mumbai, dating back to the 1950s. It is especially famous for hosting some of the tallest and most intricately designed Ganesha idols, often standing over 40 feet high. Every year, the organisers create unique themes with dazzling decorations and artistic craftsmanship that draw lakhs of devotees. Known for its grandeur and creativity, Khetwadi Ganraj has earned a reputation as one of the must-visit pandals during Ganesh Chaturthi, where the devotion of the people is beautifully blended with art and culture.

GSB Seva Mandal

GSB Seva Mandal in Mumbai is considered one of the richest and most lavish Ganesh pandals in the city. Known as the “Gold Ganesha,” the idol here is adorned with pure gold ornaments, silver, and precious jewels, making it a spectacular sight for devotees. Despite its grandeur, the pandal is also renowned for its spiritual atmosphere, as traditional rituals like Vedic hymns, homas (sacred fire rituals), and bhajans are performed daily with great devotion. The GSB Seva Mandal attracts thousands of visitors every year, who come not only to witness the magnificence of the idol but also to experience the deeply spiritual and cultural essence of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Andhericha Raja

Andhericha Raja, located in Mumbai’s Andheri suburb, is one of the most famous Ganesh pandals, often compared to Lalbaugcha Raja in terms of popularity. Unlike other pandals where the visarjan happens on Anant Chaturdashi, Andhericha Raja is unique because the idol immersion takes place much later, sometimes after 16 or even 21 days, following the tradition set by the mandal. The themes of this pandal are also well-known, with grand decorations that recreate famous temples or cultural landmarks each year. Devotees visit in large numbers to seek blessings, believing that Andhericha Raja is especially known for fulfilling wishes, making it one of the most spiritually significant pandals in Mumbai.

Dongri Cha Raja

Dongri Cha Raja, located in South Mumbai, is one of the oldest and most respected Ganesh pandals in the city. Established over 80 years ago, it is especially popular among the local Muslim and Hindu communities, showcasing the spirit of unity and harmony during Ganesh Chaturthi. The idol here is not as massive as Lalbaugcha Raja, but it is beautifully crafted and revered for its simplicity and spiritual aura. The mandal is also known for its charitable initiatives, distributing food and helping underprivileged families during the festival. With its rich tradition, social work, and communal harmony, Dongri Cha Raja holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars.

Tips for Visitors

Here are some helpful tips for visitors to make the most of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations:

• Plan Your Visit Early: Famous pandals like Lalbaugcha Raja or GSB Seva Mandal attract massive crowds. Visit early in the day or late at night to avoid long queues.

• Stay Hydrated & Comfortable: Carry a water bottle, wear light clothes, and opt for comfortable footwear, as you may have to stand or walk for long hours.

• Respect Rituals & Traditions: Maintain silence during aarti, follow the dress code (modest clothing), and avoid pushing in queues.

• Keep Valuables Safe: Crowded pandals can be hotspots for pickpocketing, so carry only essentials and keep them secure.

• Use Public Transport: Parking near major pandals is tough, so rely on trains, metros, or buses to get around easily.

• Capture Memories Respectfully: While photography is allowed in many pandals, always check before clicking pictures and avoid disturbing devotees.

Saving Tips for Ganesh Chaturthi

Celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi can sometimes become heavy on the pocket, especially when it comes to buying idols, decorations, sweets, and travelling to famous pandals. With a little planning, you can enjoy the festival in a budget-friendly way without compromising on the joy and devotion. Here are some saving tips:

• Eco-friendly & Budget Idols: Instead of buying expensive idols, opt for eco-friendly clay idols, which are not only affordable but also safe for the environment. Many local artisans sell beautiful idols at reasonable prices.

• DIY Decorations: Instead of spending on readymade décor, make simple decorations at home with flowers, rangoli, lights, and recycled materials. It adds a personal touch and saves money.

• Homemade Prasad & Sweets: Preparing modaks, laddoos, and other offerings at home is cheaper and healthier compared to buying from shops. Involving family members makes it more fun, too.

• Shared Celebrations: In housing societies or neighbourhoods, pooling resources for a single idol and pandal reduces expenses while bringing people together.

• Smart Travel: When visiting famous pandals, use public transport like metro, buses, or local trains instead of private taxis, as it saves money and avoids parking hassles.

• Budget-Friendly Shopping: If you need clothes, décor, or festival essentials, shop in advance before prices rise during the festive season. You can also check platforms like Saving Says IN, which list the latest deals, coupons, and discounts to help you cut down festival expenses.

By following these saving tips and making use of resources like Saving Says IN, devotees can celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi joyfully while keeping expenses under control.

Conclusion

Ganesh Chaturthi is not only a festival of devotion but also a celebration that unites families and communities through rituals, aartis, grand pandals, and cultural programs, creating an atmosphere of faith and joy. While millions flock to cities like Mumbai and Pune to witness the vibrant celebrations and indulge in festive shopping, travel, and food, the costs can quickly add up. That’s where Saving Says IN helps, offering the best discounts, deals, and money-saving tips on clothes, décor, sweets, and travel, ensuring you can celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with full devotion and festive spirit without overspending.

Frequently Ask Questions

Q. Why do we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi?

Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Q. How long does Ganesh Chaturthi last?

The festival usually lasts for 10 days, beginning with the installation of idols (Pranapratishtha) and concluding with Ganesh Visarjan, the immersion ceremony.

Q. What are the main rituals performed during Ganesh Chaturthi?

Key rituals include Pranapratishtha, Shodashopachara Puja (16-step worship), daily aarti and offerings, Uttarpuja, and finally Visarjan.

Q. Which are the most famous Ganesh pandals in Mumbai?

Some of the most renowned pandals include Lalbaugcha Raja, Mumbaicha Raja, Khetwadi Ganraj, GSB Seva Mandal, Andhericha Raja, and Dongri Cha Raja.

Q. What is the significance of Ganesh Visarjan?

Ganesh Visarjan symbolises the cycle of creation and dissolution, reminding devotees of life’s impermanence while bidding farewell to Lord Ganesha with a promise to welcome him again next year.