Mumbai:

As Mumbai celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi, the Raut Galli neighbourhood of Dahisar, a tiny hamlet of fishermen, welcomed its Ganesha idol, set up by three friends Sohel Malik – a Muslim, Oswald Gonsalves – a Catholic, and Jignesh Patel – a Hindu.

The three friends had not celebrated any festival on a grand scale in the past due to financial constraints. But they always wanted to bring people together in a festival that’s synonymous with the city. So they decided to do it on Ganesh Chaturthi this year, in which Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles.

“The planning was on since Covid-19 lockdown. It took us so long because some of our friends did not have a job, and we did not feel good asking them about this. We let everyone settle first and then decided to hold this,” Mr Gonsalves told NDTV.

This inter-community Ganesha festival has become a popular attraction, drawing people from all walks of life.

“I took care of the idol. Mr Patel took care of logistics and vargani (donations). The mandap (pandal) and decoration was all taken care of by Mr Gonsalves,” Mr Malik said.

“People here are together in happiness and sadness. If anything good is happening, you may see a few people showing up, but if something bad happens, everyone will turn up for you,” Mr Patel said.

Ganeshotsav, which started with Ganesh Chaturthi on September 7, is one of the biggest festivals in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

During the 10-day Ganpati festival, devotees usually bid an emotional farewell to the idols of their beloved deity after one-and-a-half days, five days, and seven days.

The final immersion process is held on the last day (Anant Chaturdashi), which will take place on September 17 this year.

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated across the country, especially Maharashtra, with immense enthusiasm to honour Lord Ganesha. This year, the 10-day-long festival will begin on September 19. During this joyous occasion, devotees bring Lord Ganesha idols to their homes and offer prayers and sweets, and seek his blessings.

The day is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and Ganeshotsav.

To make Ganesh Chaturthi festivities memorable, we have curated a list of  messages, wishes, WhatsApp status and greetings to share with your loved ones:

• On this Ganesh Chaturthi, may Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom, prosperity, and joy. Wishing you a delightful festival.
• As we welcome Lord Ganesha into our homes and hearts, may all your obstacles be removed, and your life be filled with happiness and success.
• May Lord Ganpati shower his blessings upon you and your loved ones. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi.
• May the blessings of Lord Ganesha fill your life with endless moments of love and laughter. Happy Vinayaka Chaturthi.
• This Ganesh Chaturthi, may Lord Ganesha bestow his divine grace upon you and your family. Wishing you peace and prosperity.
• On this auspicious day, may Lord Ganesha fill your life with good fortune and grant you the strength to overcome all challenges.
• As we celebrate the birth of the Lord Ganesha, may your life be filled with wisdom, courage, and prosperity. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi.
• On this special day, may Lord Ganesha’s blessings light up your path and guide you towards a brighter future.
• Wishing you and your family a Ganesh Chaturthi filled with devotion, joy, and togetherness. May Lord Ganesha bless you abundantly.
• May the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha fill your home with peace, love, and prosperity. Happy Vinayaka Chaturthi.