Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations in Kanchipuram
High Demand for Idols and Banana Leaves
On Saturday, people in Tamil Nadu flocked to markets to buy Ganesh idols and puja materials for Ganesh Chaturthi. The market in Kanchipuram was vibrant with a variety of idols in different sizes, colors, and designs. Artisans showcased their creativity with idols painted in green and blue, and some depicting Lord Ganesha sitting on a cow or lion.
Visuals showed people purchasing idols and other items for the festive celebrations. The prices of banana leaves also surged due to high demand for Ganesh Chaturthi and Subha Muhurtham, an auspicious day for weddings and ceremonies. Banana leaves, harvested from various areas in the Tuticorin district, were sold at significantly higher prices, ranging from Rs 3,500 to Rs 6,300 per bundle, compared to Rs 1,000 last week.
Ganesh Chaturthi, a ten-day festival starting on September 7, celebrates Ganesha as the ‘God of New Beginnings’ and the ‘Remover of Obstacles’. The festival, also known as ‘Vinayak Chaturthi’ or ‘Vinayak Chavithi’, is celebrated with much fervor across the country. People bring Ganesh idols to their homes, observe fasts, prepare delicacies, and visit pandals during the festival.
Doubts Revealed
Ganesh Chaturthi -: Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, who is known as the ‘God of New Beginnings’ and the ‘Remover of Obstacles’.
Kanchipuram -: Kanchipuram is a city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, known for its temples and silk sarees.
Ganesh idols -: Ganesh idols are statues of Lord Ganesha, made from clay or other materials, which people bring home for worship during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Banana leaves -: Banana leaves are large leaves from the banana plant, often used in South Indian festivals for serving food and other rituals.
Subha Muhurtham -: Subha Muhurtham refers to an auspicious time or moment, often chosen for important events like weddings or religious ceremonies.
Artisans -: Artisans are skilled workers who make things by hand, like the creative Ganesh idols for the festival.
Puja materials -: Puja materials are items used in Hindu worship rituals, such as flowers, incense, and offerings.
Pandals -: Pandals are temporary structures set up during festivals where people gather to worship and celebrate.
Fasting -: Fasting means not eating food for a certain period, often done for religious reasons during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi.
Delicacies -: Delicacies are special, delicious foods prepared for festivals and celebrations.