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Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: Complete Guide to Dates, Puja, Muhurat, and Celebrations
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom. This festival is widely celebrated across India, with homes and communities installing beautifully decorated idols of Lord Ganesha. In 2024, Ganesh Chaturthi will be observed on September 7th.
What is Ganesh Chaturthi?
Ganesh Chaturthi is a 10-day festival starting from the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Bhadrapada month, which generally falls in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar. It culminates with Ganesh Visarjan, a symbolic farewell to Lord Ganesha as idols are immersed in water(
Drik Panchang
)(
Hindustan Times
).
Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi
Lord Ganesha is revered for his ability to remove obstacles and bring prosperity. His birthday is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings, making it ideal for starting new ventures, studies, or projects(
Outlook India
).
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Key Dates
Ganesh Chaturthi: September 7, 2024 (Saturday)
Ganesh Sthapana (Installation) Muhurat: 11:03 AM to 1:34 PM
Ganesh Visarjan: September 17, 2024 (Tuesday)(
)(
)
Madhyahna Ganesh Puja Muhurat
The most auspicious time to perform the Ganesh Puja is during the Madhyahna period, which aligns with midday. In 2024, this falls between 11:03 AM and 1:34 PM on September 7th. This timing is considered highly favorable because it corresponds with the time of day when Lord Ganesha is believed to have been born(
Astroyogi Astrology
).
Rituals and Celebrations
Ganesh Sthapana (Idol Installation)
The festival begins with the installation of clay idols in homes and public spaces. The idols are adorned with flowers, lights, and ornaments, and offerings of sweets, fruits, and incense are made. It is important to perform Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja, a 16-step ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, during the Madhyahna period(
Astroyogi Astrology
).
Prohibited Moon Sighting
On the eve of Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees are advised to avoid moon sighting, which is believed to bring Mithya Dosha (false accusations). The period to avoid moon sighting on September 6th, 2024, is from 9:30 AM to 8:44 PM(
Drik Panchang
).
Puja Offerings and Bhog
Modak is the most popular offering made to Lord Ganesha during this festival. It is believed to be his favorite sweet. Other bhog items include Boondi Ladoo, coconut, and fresh fruits. Offerings of flowers, incense, and aarti are also part of the daily rituals(
Astroyogi Astrology
)(
Hindustan Times
).
Ganesh Visarjan: Significance and Process
The festival concludes with Ganesh Visarjan on September 17th, 2024. Devotees carry the idols in grand processions with music and dance, bidding farewell to Lord Ganesha as his idol is submerged in water. The immersion signifies Ganesha’s return to his heavenly abode, taking away devotees’ obstacles and granting blessings for the year ahead(
Drik Panchang
).
City-Wise Muhurat Timings
Here are the auspicious puja timings for some major cities:
City | Puja Muhurat |
New Delhi | 11:03 AM – 1:34 PM |
Mumbai | 11:22 AM – 1:51 PM |
Kolkata | 10:20 AM – 12:49 PM |
Bengaluru | 11:04 AM – 1:31 PM |
Hyderabad | 11:00 AM – 1:28 PM |
Chennai | 10:53 AM – 1:21 PM |
Make sure to confirm local timings using a panchang for your specific location(
Hindustan Times
)(
Drik Panchang
).
FAQs about Ganesh Chaturthi 2024
1. What is the best time for Ganesh Sthapana in 2024?The best time for Ganesh Sthapana in 2024 is during the Madhyahna period on September 7th, from 11:03 AM to 1:34 PM.
2. When should I perform Ganesh Visarjan in 2024?Ganesh Visarjan should be performed on September 17th, marking the conclusion of the festival.
3. What should I offer to Lord Ganesha during the puja?Offerings such as Modak, fruits, coconut, flowers, and incense are traditional and auspicious during the Ganesh Puja.
4. Is it necessary to avoid moon sighting on Ganesh Chaturthi?Yes, it is recommended to avoid moon sighting on September 6th to prevent Mithya Dosha (false accusations).
5. How long does the Ganesh Chaturthi festival last?The festival lasts for 10 days, beginning with Ganesh Chaturthi on September 7th and concluding with Ganesh Visarjan on September 17th, 2024.
Ensure you follow the proper rituals and auspicious timings to invite Lord Ganesha’s blessings into your life. For more personalized advice, consult your local panchang or an astrologer to tailor the festivities to your specific needs(
Astroyogi Astrology
)(
Hindustan Times
).
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