Ganesh Chaturthi, a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, is not just a religious occasion but a time for joy, devotion, and togetherness for people across India. Several actors, including Karanvir Bohra, Deepika Singh, Raqesh Bapat, and Mohit Malhotra, have shared their unique ways of celebrating this auspicious festival and their commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Karanvir Bohra: A Tradition of Brotherhood
For Karanvir Bohra, Ganesh Chaturthi holds a special place in his heart. He expresses a deep connection with Lord Ganesha, referring to him as a friend. The Bohra family has been celebrating this festival for over four decades, and it has become a tradition passed down through generations. They usually bring the idol home for five to ten days, depending on their availability. Notably, they emphasize the importance of using organic materials for the idol. Karanvir actively involves his daughters in the process, imparting valuable lessons about devotion and eco-consciousness.
Raqesh Bapat: Therapeutic Idol Crafting
Raqesh Bapat's journey with Ganesh Chaturthi started at a young age when he observed a temple caretaker sculpting Ganpati idols for hours. Intrigued by the art, Raqesh began making his own idols annually. For him, the process is therapeutic, a way to find tranquility amid the chaos of life. He believes that the act of idol-making brings a sense of calm and purpose. This year, time constraints led him to prepare the idol in advance, but the spiritual significance and joy remain intact. Raqesh celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi for one and a half days, cherishing this divine period with family.
Deepika Singh: Eco-Friendly Celebrations for the Whole Family
Deepika Singh, residing in a joint family, decided to engage the entire family in eco-conscious Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. They attended workshops to learn the art of crafting clay idols together. Through this, they not only created beautiful Ganpati idols but also educated the younger generation about the significance of the festival and Lord Ganesha's stories. Deepika's family is committed to using eco-friendly idols to protect marine life and reduce water pollution. Making the idol themselves infuses their celebration with love, positive energy, and togetherness.
Mohit Malhotra: A Personal Touch to Ganpati
Mohit Malhotra, who has been welcoming Lord Ganesha into his home for years, recently started crafting the idol himself. He finds the experience incredibly special, as it allows him to invest time, effort, and positive energy into the process. Mohit's Ganpati celebrations last for one and a half days, during which he ensures that the idol looks adorable and natural. This year, he opted for a raw, colorless idol to maintain its authenticity. Mohit believes that being chosen to create Lord Ganesha's idol is a spiritually divine process that brings love, positivity, and togetherness among friends and family.
In conclusion, these actors' stories showcase the deep-rooted traditions and personal connections that people have with Ganesh Chaturthi. Moreover, their commitment to eco-friendly celebrations reflects a growing awareness of environmental responsibility during festivals. Ganesh Chaturthi, beyond its religious significance, stands as a testament to the values of love, devotion, and unity that enrich the lives of individuals and their families.
