The Indian festival of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity in Hindu mythology, who is also recognised as the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles. Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, the festival is widely celebrated in India and Nepal, as well as by the Hindu diaspora in other parts of the world, including in the UAE. The festival is celebrated for a period of 10 days, and its date varies based on the lunar calendar, but it typically falls in August or September. Several temples, too, erect colourful pandals open to the public, some of which house idols of up to 20 feet. This ritual represents Ganesha's journey back to his celestial abode, Mount Kailas, where his parents the Hindu deities Shiva and Parvati live.

Source: The Hindu September 18, 2023 09:21 UTC