In Maharashtra, the Ganesh Utsav has now been granted the status of a state festival. The government of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made this historic decision, officially declaring the grand festival of Ganpati Bappa as a state festival.
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has taken a historic decision, declaring the Ganesh Utsav as the state's official 'State Festival.' Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Culture Minister Ashish Shelar made this announcement during the assembly session. This decision is not just a recognition of a cultural festival, but also a major step towards preserving and promoting the state's cultural heritage and collective consciousness.
Public Ganesh Utsav Started in 1893
The public celebration of Ganesh Utsav began in the year 1893 by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. He transformed this festival, considering it not just religious, but a symbol of nationalism, social unity, and love for language and culture. Since then, this festival has been celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy in Maharashtra.
Culture Minister Ashish Shelar told the assembly that several petitions were filed in the courts regarding the Ganesh Utsav, appealing not to grant permission for the event. He said, "Our government has successfully overcome all such obstacles. This government is committed to protecting the cultural identity of the state, and declaring Ganesh Utsav as a state festival is part of that commitment."
What does becoming a state festival mean?
Declaring Ganesh Utsav as a state festival means that this festival will no longer be just a religious event, but will receive the status of a protected cultural festival at the state level. This includes: Special budget and assistance for the event from the state government. The Department of Education, Culture, and Tourism will include it in the official calendar.
Collective participation and encouragement will be given throughout Maharashtra. This step will especially encourage the Ganesh Mandals and organizers who organize social work, community unity, and cultural programs every year.
Ganesh Utsav 2025: When and how will it be celebrated?
Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. The midday puja muhurat will be from 11:06 AM to 01:40 PM on this day. The immersion of the Ganesh idol will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025. This 10-day festival begins on the Chaturthi of the Shukla Paksha of the Bhadrapada month and ends on Anant Chaturdashi. During this time, devotees install the idol of Ganpati Bappa in homes, mandaps, and public places and worship him.
Lord Ganesha is worshiped as the 'Vighnaharta,' the remover of obstacles. This festival has become a symbol not only of religion but also of social, cultural, and national unity. It unites everyone, transcending the boundaries of caste, religion, and creed.
