Anant Chaturdashi marks a significant day in the Hindu calendar, symbolising the conclusion of the Ganesh festival. This auspicious day falls on September 7, 2025, and is primarily observed by devotees who immerse the idol of Lord Ganesha in water, signifying his return to nature.
Significance of Anant Chaturdashi
Anant Chaturdashi is the final day of the ten-day Ganesh festival, which begins with Ganesh Chaturthi. During this period, devotees bring home the idol of Ganesha and worship him with great reverence. The immersion of the idol on Anant Chaturdashi represents the cycle of nature and the deity’s journey back to his abode. Many devotees choose to keep the idol for varying durations, commonly for 1.5, 3, 5, 7, or 11 days, with the majority opting for the 11-day period, culminating in this auspicious day.
Several groups play vital roles in the observance of Anant Chaturdashi:
- Devotees of Lord Ganesha who celebrate the festival
- Hindu priests who guide the rituals and timings for immersion
- Community members who participate in Ganesh festival activities
- Local authorities managing public immersion events
Rituals and Observances
The rituals associated with Anant Chaturdashi are steeped in tradition and performed with devotion. Key aspects include:
- The immersion of Ganesha idols in water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, or the sea
- Ceremonial processions to the immersion sites, often filled with singing and dancing
- Specific timings for the immersion, referred to as Shubh Muhurat, which devotees seek to honour
- Immersion Locations and Celebrations
- Immersion typically occurs in water bodies across India, with a significant focus in states like Maharashtra. Community gatherings often take place at local temples and public spaces, where devotees come together to celebrate the conclusion of the festival.
Ceremonial Process
The process of immersion involves several steps:
- Devotees install Ganesha idols in homes or public pandals
- Rituals include prayers, offerings, and singing devotional songs
- Idols are decorated and taken to the immersion site with great reverence