Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa

Ganesh Chaturthi is the most important festival celebrated in Goa. Observed as the birthday of the elephantgod Ganesha in the Hindu pantheon, Ganesh Chaturthi festival is marked by traditional fervor and gaiety. A festival with a panIndian spread, Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa holds the seat of preeminence among all other festivals.Also known as Chovoth, the Ganesha Chaturthi festival usually falls on the 4th day of Bhadarva ShuklaPaksh of Hindu calendar in (August/September). During the festival, pujas are offered to the idol of Ganesha along with Lord Mahadev and Gouri. On the eve of the Chovoth day, a clay idol of Ganesh is installed in a small pandal called matov made of bunches of betel nut, coconut, bananas and branches of mangotrees.Even though the religious observations are held for a couple of days, the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities may continue for 710 days. On the last day of the festival, the ritual of Visarjan takes place when the idol of Ganesh is carried in a colorful procession and is finally immersed in a water body.The Ganesh Chaturthi festival ushers in a season of joyous celebration all over Goa. Besides the religious significance, the festival is an occasion for family members to reunite and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha.