About Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is a joyful Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered as the remover of obstacles and the patron of wisdom and new beginnings. Devotees welcome Ganesha into homes and public spaces, believing his presence brings good fortune and success. The festival is especially significant in Maharashtra, where it is one of the most anticipated and elaborately observed celebrations of the year.
Families and communities install clay idols of Ganesha, offering prayers, sweets such as modak, flowers and devotional songs over several days. Public pandals host large idols and cultural events, drawing huge crowds. The festival concludes with Visarjan, when idols are carried in lively processions and immersed in rivers, lakes or the sea. Mumbai and Pune are renowned for their grand and spirited celebrations.
Ganesh Chaturthi follows the Hindu lunar calendar, falling in the month of Bhadrapada (usually August or September), so its Gregorian date shifts each year. The celebrations often span up to ten days, ending with the immersion on Anant Chaturdashi. The live countdown above tracks the next date for you. You are welcome to add this countdown to your own page to keep the day close at hand.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Monday, September 14, 2026next |
| 2027 | Saturday, September 4, 2027 |
| 2028 | Wednesday, August 23, 2028 |
| 2029 | Tuesday, September 11, 2029 |
FAQ
When is Ganesh Chaturthi this year and what date is it?
Ganesh Chaturthi follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so its date varies each year, usually falling in August or September. The live countdown above shows the exact next date.
Why is Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated?
It celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom and new beginnings. Devotees seek his blessings for prosperity and success.
How is Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated?
Devotees install clay idols of Ganesha and offer prayers, sweets and songs over several days. The festival ends with Visarjan, when idols are carried in processions and immersed in water.
What is Visarjan in Ganesh Chaturthi?
Visarjan is the immersion ceremony that concludes the festival, when Ganesha idols are taken in procession and immersed in a river, lake or the sea. It symbolises the deity's return to his celestial home.