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Key Points

Maharashtra elevates Ganeshotsav to state festival status, cementing its 130-year cultural legacy. Culture Minister Ashish Shelar linked the decision to Lokmanya Tilak's 1893 freedom movement roots. The government resolved legal challenges to protect public celebrations under CM Fadnavis' leadership. The 10-day festival unites devotees through vibrant pandals, rituals, and processions honoring Lord Ganesha.

Key Points: Maharashtra Declares Ganeshotsav as State Festival After 130 Years

  • 130-year-old festival gains state recognition
  • Ties to Lokmanya Tilak's 1893 freedom movement
  • Govt overcomes legal hurdles to preserve tradition
  • Celebrates Ganesha as remover of obstacles
  • Unites Maharashtra through pandals and processions
2 min read

Ganeshotsav declared as Maharashtra State Festival

Maharashtra officially recognizes 130-year-old Ganeshotsav as a state festival, honoring Lokmanya Tilak's legacy and cultural pride.

"Public Ganeshotsav is rooted in social, national, and linguistic pride—it's Maharashtra's honor - Ashish Shelar"

Mumbai, July 10

The public Ganeshotsav, a tradition over 100 years old, has been officially declared as the "Maharashtra State Festival". The announcement was made in the Legislative Assembly by the State's Minister of Cultural Affairs, Advocate Ashish Shelar, on Thursday, a press note from the culture minister's office said.

While making a statement in the Assembly, Minister Ashish Shelar said, "Public Ganeshotsav was started in Maharashtra in 1893 by Lokmanya Tilak. This festival is deeply rooted in social, national, freedom, self-respect, and linguistic pride. It continues in the same spirit today. It is a matter of pride and honour for Maharashtra."

He emphasised that the Government of Maharashtra is committed to preserving and promoting the cultural significance and global presence of this festival.

He also highlighted that certain individuals, for various reasons, have attempted to challenge the traditional public celebration of Ganeshotsav in different courts. However, the Mahayuti government--under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Dada Pawar--has acted swiftly to overcome all such restrictions and legal hurdles.

Ganeshotsav, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi.

Ganesh Chaturthi is a 10-day festival that continues until Anantha Chaturdashi. This festival is also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayak Chavithi. During Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles.

During Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles. Devotees across India and abroad celebrate Lord Ganesha's wisdom and intelligence. Homes and pandals are adorned with elaborate decorations, and the air is filled with prayers, music, and festive chants. The streets come alive with vibrant processions and traditional rituals as people prepare delicious offerings and visit the beautifully decorated pandals.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the sentiment, I hope this doesn't become politicized. The festival belongs to all people, not just one party. Let's keep the focus on devotion and community bonding.
A
Aditya G
Great move! Now the government should also allocate funds for proper waste management during immersions. We celebrate with devotion but must be responsible towards our environment too.
S
Sarah B
As someone who experienced Ganeshotsav for the first time last year, I must say it's one of the most vibrant festivals I've ever seen! The energy in Mumbai during these 10 days is incredible.
K
Karthik V
Lokmanya Tilak would be proud to see how his vision of uniting people through Ganeshotsav continues even today. This recognition will help preserve our traditions for future generations.
N
Nisha Z
I hope this declaration comes with concrete plans to support small artisans who make eco-friendly idols. They're the backbone of our festival but often struggle financially.

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