When is Ganesh Chaturthi in 2025?
Date and Day
- Date: 27 August 2025
- Day: Wednesday
- Puja Muhurat: The auspicious time for Ganesha Puja (Madhyahna Ganesha Puja Muhurat) is from 11:05 AM to 1:40 PM (IST), with a duration of approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes, as per the Hindu calendar. The Chaturthi Tithi begins at 1:54 PM on 26 August 2025 and ends at 3:44 PM on 27 August 2025.
- Ganesh Visarjan: September 6, 2025 (Anant Chaturdashi)
Ganesh Chaturthi: Festival of Faith, Unity, and Devotion
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of India’s most beloved festivals, symbolizing devotion, unity, and joy. Celebrated across communities, it honours Lord Ganesh – the remover of obstacles and God of new beginnings. The 10-day celebration features vibrant idols, devotional chants, and the sweet aroma of His favourite modaks. It’s not just a religious event but a social celebration, where people come together in harmony. Devotees treat Lord Ganesh like an honoured guest, offering prayers and delicacies prepared with love, especially during His divine visit to Earth.
History of Ganesh Chaturthi
While Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated across India, its grandest celebrations are seen in Maharashtra. Interestingly, this wasn’t always the case. Originally a modest household ritual, the festival took a historic turn during the Maratha reign. The credit for popularizing it as a public event goes to Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a prominent freedom fighter. In 1893, Tilak transformed Ganesh Chaturthi into a large community festival to unite people against British rule. Since the British couldn’t suppress religious gatherings, the festival became a subtle yet powerful symbol of national unity and resistance marking the birth of one of India’s most vibrant public celebrations.
Ganesh Chaturthi Rituals and Customs
The preparation for the festival begins months earlier with artisans crafting clay images of Ganesh in different sizes. These idols are installed in specially decorated pandals (temporary structure used in religious events) or at homes. The 10-day long celebration follows the Hindu lunar calendar, with the biggest spectacle taking place on the last day called Anant Chaturdashi. On the first day, amid chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya, thousands of devotees take the idol of Lord Ganesh home, and after its installation, perform a ceremony to invoke His holy presence into the statue. This ritual is called the Prana Pratishtha, during which a number of mantras are recited, a special worship ceremony is performed, offerings of sweets, flowers, rice, coconut, jaggery, and coins are made, and the statue is anointed with red chandan (sandalwood) powder. For the next 10 days the idol is worshipped every day and an arti is sung in the evening. It is believed that Lord Ganesh was born at midday, and consequently it is considered to be the most auspicious time of the day for performing the rituals.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with pride and enthusiasm, especially through grand public displays. Temples and elaborately decorated pandals host beautifully crafted idols of Lord Ganesh. In many communities, there’s a friendly 10-day competition to showcase the most impressive statue. Devotees visit these displays in large numbers, with Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja, established in 1934, being one of the most iconic and visited pandals in Maharashtra.
The finale of Ganesh Chaturthi on Anant Chaturdashi is a vibrant farewell marked by processions, music, and dance. Idols of Lord Ganesh are immersed in water, symbolizing the cycle of creation, dissolution, and renewal. The chant Ganpati Bappa Morya echoes as devotees pray for His return next year. This immersion reflects the impermanence of life and our connection to nature. In cities like Mumbai, over 150,000 idols are immersed annually, with prayers for prosperity, peace, and a bountiful harvest.
Food an Integral Part of the Festivities
Central to the festival is the concept of bhog, which serves a dual purpose: it is the sacred offering presented to Lord Ganesha during worship and the communal meal shared with devotees who gather to pay their respects. Bhog is a symbol of gratitude and devotion, featuring an assortment of sweets, savory dishes, and fruits. Among the fruits, bananas hold a special significance as Lord Ganesha’s favorite, often taking precedence in the offerings. The act of preparing and sharing bhog fosters a sense of unity and celebration, bringing communities together in reverence and joy.
Iconic Delicacies of Ganesh Chaturthi
The festival’s culinary repertoire is as diverse as it is delicious, with each dish carrying cultural and spiritual significance. Below are some of the standout offerings that define Ganesh Chaturthi:
- Modak: Known as Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet, modak is a hallmark of the festival. Referred to as Modakpriya (lover of modaks) in scriptures, Ganesha is traditionally offered these sweet dumplings on the first day of the festival. Made from rice flour with a filling of jaggery and coconut, modaks come in various forms today, including steamed, fried, dry fruit, and even chocolate varieties, showcasing the evolution of this beloved treat.
- Motichoor Laddoos: These golden, melt-in-the-mouth laddoos are another favorite of Lord Ganesha, often depicted in his hands in idols and imagery. Made from tiny gram flour pearls bound with sugar syrup, motichoor laddoos are a staple in the bhog. Other laddoo varieties, such as coconut laddoos and til ke laddoos (sesame seed laddoos), also grace the festival’s offerings, adding to the sweet indulgence.
- Satori: Maharashtrian specialty, satori is a rich, sweet flatbread made from khoya (reduced milk), ghee, gram flour, and milk. Its flaky texture and decadent flavor make it a cherished festival treat, particularly in Maharashtra, where Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with unparalleled fervor.
- Coconut Rice: Fragrant and flavorful dish popular in Western India, coconut rice is prepared by cooking white rice with coconut milk or flakes. This savory offering is a common bhog item, symbolizing simplicity and devotion.
- Shrikhand: This creamy, sweet yogurt-based dessert, topped with nuts and raisins, is a crowd-pleaser across India. Its smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it a delightful addition to the festival’s spread.
- Banana Sheera: Simple yet delectable sweet, banana sheera is made from mashed bananas, semolina, and sugar. Similar to sooji ka halwa, this dish is a popular offering due to its ease of preparation and Ganesha’s affinity for bananas.
- Puran Poli: Traditional stuffed flatbread, puran poli consists of a wheat flour exterior filled with a sweet mixture of jaggery, lentils, and spices like cardamom and nutmeg. This Maharashtrian delicacy is a festival favorite, embodying the balance of simplicity and richness.
Best Places to Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 in the USA
For those looking to immerse themselves in the festive spirit, here are some of the best places in the USA to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in 2025, where the Indian diaspora and local communities come together to honor this beloved deity.
1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Philadelphia Ganesh Festival is one of the largest and most prominent celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi in North America. Organized primarily by the Marathi community, this event attracts over 10,000 devotees annually. Held at venues like the Bharatiya Temple, the festival features colorful pandals (temporary stages) adorned with flowers and lights, where beautifully crafted Ganesha idols are installed. Expect a rich lineup of cultural programs, including devotional bhajans, traditional dances, and vibrant Visarjan processions. The festival’s eco-friendly initiatives, such as using clay idols, reflect a commitment to sustainable celebrations. If you’re in the Northeast, Philadelphia is a must-visit for an authentic and grand Ganesh Utsav experience.
2. Bay Area, California
In the San Francisco Bay Area, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Fremont Hindu Temple, through a collaboration between the Bay Area Telugu Association (BATA), Maharashtra Mandal, and Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS). The 10-day festival includes daily rituals like the Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja, cultural performances, and community feasts featuring traditional sweets like modak. The highlight is the grand Visarjan procession, where the Ganesha idol is immersed in the Pacific Ocean near the Golden Gate Bridge, accompanied by music and chanting. The Bay Area’s diverse Indian community ensures a lively and inclusive celebration, making it a top destination for festival-goers.
3. Cary, North Carolina
The Sri Venkateswara Temple in Cary, North Carolina, hosts a vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi celebration that draws thousands of devotees from across the Southeast. The temple organizes elaborate pujas, including the Pranapratishtha ritual to invoke Ganesha’s presence, and offers prasad like modak and laddoo. Cultural events feature classical music, dance performances, and workshops for children, fostering a sense of community. The Visarjan ceremony, often held at a nearby lake, is a moving spectacle with devotees chanting “Ganpati Bappa Morya.” Cary’s celebration is ideal for those seeking a blend of spirituality and cultural immersion in a serene setting.
4. Sai Samsthan, Illinois
Sai Samsthan in Illinois hosts one of the largest Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in the United States, attracting devotees from across the Midwest and beyond. This Hindu society organizes a 10-day festival with intricate rituals, devotional singing, and cultural programs that showcase Indian traditions. The pandals are elaborately decorated, and the atmosphere is filled with the aroma of incense and traditional foods. The Visarjan procession, often concluding at a local water body, is a highlight, marked by vibrant music and dance. This event is perfect for those looking for a grand, community-driven celebration in the heart of the Midwest.
5. New Jersey
New Jersey’s large Indian diaspora makes it a hub for Ganesh Chaturthi festivities, particularly in cities like Jersey City and Edison. Temples such as the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Edison and the Hindu American Temple in Morganville host elaborate pujas, cultural shows, and community gatherings. Families come together for communal prayers, and pandals are decorated with flowers, lights, and eco-friendly Ganesha idols. The Visarjan processions, often held at local rivers or lakes, feature traditional drumming and devotional chants, creating a festive atmosphere. New Jersey’s celebrations are ideal for those seeking a blend of tradition and community spirit.
6. New York City, New York
New York City’s Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are a vibrant display of cultural unity, with the annual Ganesh Utsav parade in Times Square being a major highlight. Organized by local Hindu organizations, this event features colorful floats, traditional music, and dance performances that draw diverse crowds. Temples like the Ganesh Temple of Flushing, Queens, offer daily pujas, including the chanting of Vedic hymns and offerings of modak. The Visarjan ceremony, often conducted at nearby water bodies, is a lively affair with devotees bidding farewell to Ganesha amidst chants and music. NYC’s dynamic atmosphere makes it a unique place to experience this festival.
Schedule of Ganesh Chaturthi 2025
Day 1: Embracing Lord Ganesha with Devotion and Clay CreationsThe commencement of Ganesh Chaturthi witnesses the installation of Lord Ganesha’s divine idol, gracing both homes and transient pandals. Devotees offer fervent prayers, while the market bustles with an assortment of clay idols, each chosen with care to match its intended abode.
Day 2: The Centrality of the Festival
The second day, aptly termed ‘Chaturthi’ assumes a pivotal role as the heart of the entire celebration.
Day 3: An Exclusive Tapestry of Prayers and Aarti for Lord GaneshaOn the third day, devotees devote themselves to distinct prayers and engage in the ritualistic aarti, channeling their reverence towards Lord Ganesha.
Day 4: Revelry with Devotions, Aarti, and Delectable Offerings
The fourth day resonates with joyous prayers, accompanied by aarti ceremonies and the presentation of delectable sweets as tokens of devotion to Lord Ganesha.
Day 5: Immersion in the Shhodashopachara Pooja for Lord Ganesha
The fifth day encapsulates the ‘Shhodashopachara Pooja’ an intricate ceremony encompassing 16 facets of worship, serving as a homage to Lord Ganesha.
Day 6: Homebound Prayers
Aartis usher in joy as the sixth day dawns, known as ‘Sashti’ intimate prayers and soul-stirring aartis fill the homes of devotees.
Day 7: A Sacred Voyage
Through Special Prayers and Saptapadi or day seven, distinguished as a day of ‘Saptapadi’ entails the performance of the sacred seven steps, accompanied by fervent supplications to Lord Ganesha.
Day 8: The Reverent Ashtami
Celebrated as ‘Ashtami’ the eighth day unfolds with dedicated prayers, aarti rituals, and the presentation of delightful confections offered to Lord Ganesha.
Day 9: An Affectionate Tribute to Nine Plants
The penultimate day embraces the ‘Navapatrika Pooja’ a heartfelt tribute paid through the worship of nine distinct plants.
Day 10: A Majestic Procession and Ganesh Visarjan
The grand finale, known as ‘Vijayadashami’ signifies the culmination of the festival. Lord Ganesha’s resplendent idol embarks on a grand procession, culminating in its immersion, known as Ganesh Visarjan, into the nearby waters.
Over the course of these ten days, communities immerse themselves in the festivities, joining public revelries and visiting the homes of kin and friends. Cultural galas come to life with harmonious melodies and rhythmic dances. Devotees, in their spirit of compassion, extend their support to the less fortunate through charitable acts, including the donation of clothing and sustenance.
International Celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi 2025
Ganesh Chaturthi, originating as a quintessential Hindu festival in India, has found its way into the hearts and homes of several countries worldwide. Beyond India’s borders, this vibrant celebration has taken root in diverse communities with significant Hindu populations. Let’s explore how Ganesh Chaturthi is observed in some of these countries:
- Malaysia: A Nine-Day Culinary Tribute Across Malaysia, Ganesh Chaturthi heralds nine days of gastronomic devotion. The ‘Pranprathistha’ ritual sets the stage, invoking Lord Ganesh’s earthly presence and initiating the culinary celebrations. Sweet dishes and tantalizing culinary creations are offered to the deity over this period. The festivities culminate in a vibrant procession, where the idol is lovingly carried to a water body for immersion.
- Nepal: Honoring Lord Ganesh with Devotion in Nepal, Ganesh Chaturthi, also referred to as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is celebrated with profound reverence. Devotees welcome idols of Lord Ganesh into their homes, engage in heartfelt worship, and relish delectable feasts in the company of friends and family. The culmination of the festivities involves the immersion of the idols, echoing the practice in India. Temples play a pivotal role by conducting prayers and sharing Lord Ganesh’s favorite treat, modaks, a sweet delicacy.
- Singapore: Floral Adornments and Devotion In the vibrant city-state of Singapore, Ganesh Chaturthi is marked by intimate home worship. Delicately decorated Ganesha idols adorned with vibrant flowers and sacred kumkum and turmeric are the centerpieces of devotion. Offering sugarcane and corn, along with embellishing front gates with mango leaves, adds a charming touch to the festivities.
- Mauritius: The island nation of Mauritius mirrors India’s Ganesh Chaturthi traditions with heartfelt devotion. Homes are meticulously cleaned and adorned with colorful flowers to welcome the deity. Lord Ganesh’s insatiable love for food finds expression in the offering of Modak, a delectable sweet treat made from rice flour, jaggery, and coconut stuffing.
- Canada: Grand Celebrations in Toronto Across the Atlantic, Toronto, the bustling Canadian metropolis, transforms into a hub of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The Indian diaspora brings the festival to life with a tapestry of cultural and religious events. Ganesha idols journey from Indian homes to find a new abode in Canada, where devotees unite for vibrant gatherings, Aarti ceremonies, and the distribution of Prasad.
Ganesh Visarjan – The Final Day of Ganesh Chaturthi
The farewell procession, or Ganesh Visarjan, is the grand culmination of the festival. This is the celebration in which the installed idols of the god are immersed in a water body. The immersion might be done in the nearest pond, lake, river, or sea. Those who do not have access to a large water body might also do symbolic immersions in by dipping the idol in a small vessel or water barrel at home.
The idol is taken from the place of installation – home or public pandals – to the water body in a huge procession accompanied by devotees singing bhajans or songs. Depending on the size of the idol, it may be carried on the shoulders of either the head of the family or a symbolic head of the area, or taken on a wooden carrier, or in a vehicle.
FAQs
When to Avoid Moon Sighting on Ganesh Chaturthi?
It is traditionally advised to avoid looking at the moon during specific periods around Ganesh Chaturthi to prevent misunderstandings and false accusations.
On 26 August 2025, moon sighting is prohibited from 1:54 PM to 8:29 PM.
On 27 August 2025, avoid moon sighting between 9:28 AM and 8:57 PM.
What is Ganesh Chaturthi and why is it celebrated?
Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and god of wisdom. It symbolizes new beginnings and is observed with prayers, offerings, and cultural festivities.
When is Ganesh Chaturthi in 2025?
Ganesh Chaturthi in 2025 will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28. The festival lasts for 10 days, culminating with Anant Chaturdashi on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
How is Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated in India?
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with the installation of Ganesha idols in homes and public places, daily aartis, sweets like modak, and grand processions for visarjan (immersion). Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh host the biggest celebrations.
What are the main sweets prepared during Ganesh Chaturthi?
Modak is the most popular sweet offered to Lord Ganesha. Other sweets include ladoo, karanji, puran poli, and barfi, each with regional variations.
What is the significance of Ganesh Visarjan?
Ganesh Visarjan marks the end of the festival. The immersion of the idol in water symbolizes Lord Ganesha’s return to Mount Kailash, taking away devotees’ problems and misfortunes.
Is eco-friendly Ganesh idol better than traditional idols?
Yes, eco-friendly Ganesh idols made from clay or natural materials dissolve easily in water, causing less pollution compared to Plaster of Paris idols, which harm marine life and water quality.
What should not be done during Ganesh Chaturthi?
During Ganesh Chaturthi, avoid consuming non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and tobacco. Maintain a clean and positive atmosphere around the idol and avoid disrespectful behavior during rituals and visarjan.
What are the best decoration ideas for Ganesh Chaturthi at home?
Popular decoration ideas include floral setups, eco-friendly themes, DIY crafts, LED lights, and traditional pandal decorations using banana leaves, rangoli, and colorful fabrics.
