Ganesh Chathurthi (Vinayaka Chavithi)

Vinayaka Chavithi or Ganesh Chaturthi also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, Vinayagar (in Tamil Nadu), is the Hindu festival that largely celebrated on the occasion of birthday of Lord Ganesha, (son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati), who is believed to bestow his presence on earth for all his devotees in the duration of this festival.

It is believed that this is the day when Lord Shiva declared his son Ganesha as superior to all the gods. Ganesha is widely worshipped as the god of knowledge, prosperity and good luck and traditionally invoked at the beginning of any new work or at the start of journey.

This festival is also known as “Ganeshotsav” which is observed in the month of Bhaadrapada (as per Hindu calendar), starting on the “shuklachaturthi” (fourth day of the waxing moon period). The date usually falls between 19^th Aug – 15^th September. Ganeshothsav lasts for 10 days 9 nights (Nav Rathri), ending on Anant Chaturdashi (fourteenth day of the increasing moon period).

Ganesh chathurthi is largely celebrated all over India, however mostly elaborate in Andhra, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Goa. Vinayaka chavithi is also celebrated in other countries such as Nepal, US, UK, Singapore etc by Hindus.