Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chaturthi is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha. It starts on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada.
Ganesh Chaturthi is an ancient festival, and was celebrated to promote unity and devotion. During the Indian Independence movement, in 1893, Lokmanya Tilak transformed Ganesh Chaturthi into a grand public celebration. Thsi was done to bring Indians together.
“Today, the festival not only holds religious significance but also fosters cultural and social unity. It brings communities together and encourages the promotion of art, music, and traditions,” states the website of Maharashtra Tourism.
The festival lasts for ten days, beginning with the Sthapana (the ceremonial placement of Lord Ganesha’s idol). During this period, devotees bring the deity into their homes and perform his rituals and worship. Traditionally Ganesha’s idols were crafted from Shadu clay and painted with natural dyes. However with the use of synthetic colours, emphasis is being paid to make it eco-friendly.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Auspicious Timing (Shubh Muhurat)
According to the Hindu calendar, the Chaturthi tithi in the month of Bhadrapada will begin on 26 August at 1:54 pm and will end on 27 August at 3:44 pm. Based on the calendar, the Ganesh Chaturthi festival will officially begin on 27 August, which is also the day for Lord Ganesha’s Sthapana.
Puja Timing (Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Puja Muhurat)
The most auspicious time for Sthapana is at midday, as it is believed that the deity was born at this time. On 27 August 2025, the ideal period for Ganesh Puja will be from 11:05 am to 1:40 pm.
Important for Ganesh Sthapana
Wherever the mandap is set up for Lord Ganesha’s idol, draw the sacred swastika. After that, shower flowers and rice over the swastika. Then, perform the Sthapana of Lord Ganesha’s idol. Make sure that the idol faces the north, as it is believed that Lord Ganesha resides in the northern direction.