Goa Unites in Joyful Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

Goa launched into the 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi, locally known as ‘Chavath,’ with immense devotion, welcoming Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, into homes and public mandals across the state. With nearly 70% of Goa’s population being Hindu, the festival saw widespread participation, marked by morning rituals following the installation of idols on Tuesday night. The celebrations, a cornerstone of Goan culture, drew thousands of diaspora Goans back to their ancestral villages, strengthening family bonds.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant extended warm greetings, urging an eco-friendly celebration. “Ganapati Bappa, the embodiment of wisdom and good fortune, lights up lives with hope and joy,” he said, highlighting the festival’s role in reuniting families for traditional worship. Governor P Ashok Gajapathi Raju echoed this, calling Chavath a celebration of cultural heritage and praying for harmony and prosperity. “May Lord Ganesha inspire us to overcome challenges and cherish eco-friendly traditions,” he added.

In a gesture of interfaith unity, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Rev Fr Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, extended blessings, praying for hope and brotherhood, inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s interfaith prayer. Hundreds of mandals organized grand processions and planned cultural events, with daily rituals and performances set to enliven Goa over the next 10 days, reinforcing the state’s vibrant communal spirit.

Also Read: PM Modi Celebrates Return of FIDE World Cup

Also Read: Pakistan-Born Crasto Granted Indian Citizenship in Goa