Sentiments

The first person to observe the vrat of Ganesh Chaturthi was Chandra the moon. After Ganeshjis fame as leader (pati) of Shivas ganas, hence Ganapati, he was travelling through the heavens. As he passed Chandra who prided on his attractive features, he slighted Ganeshjis peculiar form. In return, Ganeshji cursed him, You shall bear the fruit of your karma. Whenever somebody does your darshan he will be cursed too. Chandra begged for forgiveness. Ganeshji then advised him to observe the Ganesh Chaturthi vrat and was freed from the curse.By being aware of the detrimental effects of false pride one should cultivate humility. The Skanda Purana mentions this sentiment of the festival.The Vayu Puran advocates the observance of this festival by listening to the following relevant episode of Shri Krishna, to be relieved from false accusation When Shri Krishna was falsely accused of pilfering the Syamantak Mani (gem) he observed Ganesh Chaturthi and was freed from the false charge.This festival also inspires devotees to inculcate two virtues obeying the commands of God and His choicest devotee, and consolidating faith in them, just as Ganeshji had faith and trust in Parvati regarding circumambulating his parents.