The first edition of The International Ganesh Festival 2023 is set to be a grand celebration of Maharashtra’s illustrious heritage and the unity of cultures.
Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, the festival aims to promote tourism within the state and showcase the rich history and traditions of Maharashtra to a global audience.
The annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival is a community event that is spread over 10 days. Interestingly it is believed that it was Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji who started the tradition of these festivities. Incidentally, the Peshwa community consider Ganesha as their Family God. Post the Maratha rule, there was a dip in the festivities, Bhausaheb Laxman Javale, commonly called Bhau Rangari, revived the interest with public installations of Ganesha and started the festival as a community event.
Numerous activities are scheduled to immerse visitors in Maharashtra’s vibrant heritage. These include visits to significant landmarks such as the Siddhivinayak Temple, Girgaon Chowpatty, and Shaniwar Wada, engaging workshops like the Warli Art Workshop, and explorations of historical sites such as the Kelva Fort and Ratnadurg Fort. “Furthermore, a Cultural Hub at the Gateway of India promises a blend of Sand Art, Mosaic Art, Scroll Art, Projection Mapping, cultural performances, engaging workshops, and Art and Craft exhibitions, reflecting both traditions and modern interpretations,” says Dr. B.N. Patil, Director, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra.
Read the full story that first appeared in Free Press Journal dated Sep 17, 2023 here:
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