Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 will be observed on Monday, September 14, 2026. The festival, which marks the traditional celebration of Lord Ganesha’s birth, begins on the Chaturthi Tithi of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha. For devotees across India and around the world, this day signals the start of Ganeshotsav—a period of worship, family gatherings, and community celebration that culminates with Ganesh Visarjan on Friday, September 25, 2026. The main Ganesh Puja is traditionally performed during the Madhyahna period, which varies by city depending on local sunrise and sunset. In New Delhi, the Madhyahna Ganesh Puja Muhurat runs from 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM. This guide covers everything you need to know about the date, timings, rituals, and regional traditions.
| Detail | Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, September 14, 2026 |
| Day | Monday |
| Tithi | Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi |
| Chaturthi Tithi Begins | 7:06 AM, September 14, 2026 |
| Chaturthi Tithi Ends | 7:44 AM, September 15, 2026 |
| New Delhi Puja Muhurat | 11:02 AM – 1:31 PM |
| Ganesh Visarjan | Friday, September 25, 2026 |
| Anant Chaturdashi | Friday, September 25, 2026 |
| Festival Duration | Commonly observed over 1.5, 3, 5, 7, or 10 days |
All timings are local to the respective city. Panchang calculations vary by location.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 falls on Monday, September 14. This date is determined according to the Hindu lunar calendar, specifically the Bhadrapada month during the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase).
The festival date changes each year in the Gregorian calendar because the Hindu calendar is lunar-based. Ganesh Chaturthi typically falls between August and September. In 2026, the festival arrives in mid-September, placing it after the monsoon season has largely settled across most of India.
The Chaturthi Tithi—the specific lunar day on which the festival is observed—begins at 7:06 AM on September 14 and continues until 7:44 AM on September 15. Because the Tithi spans two calendar days, the main worship and idol installation are performed on September 14, when the Tithi is active during daytime hours.
The date of Ganesh Chaturthi is not fixed to a single Gregorian date because it follows the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival is observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada.
Key distinctions to understand:
These are related but separate concepts. The festival is observed on September 14 because that is when the Chaturthi Tithi prevails during the daytime, which is considered appropriate for Ganesh Puja.
The Chaturthi Tithi for Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 begins at 7:06 AM on September 14, 2026, and ends at 7:44 AM on September 15, 2026.
A Tithi is a lunar day in the Hindu calendar system. Unlike a standard 24-hour calendar day, a Tithi can begin at any time of day or night and lasts approximately 19 to 26 hours. This is why the Chaturthi Tithi spans across two Gregorian dates.
For Ganesh Chaturthi, the important consideration is that the Tithi is present during the Madhyahna (midday) period on September 14. This makes September 14 the primary day for Sthapana and main Puja, even though the Tithi technically continues into the next morning.
The most auspicious time for Ganesh Puja is during Madhyahna, the midday period. In Hindu tradition, this is considered the appropriate time for Ganesha worship because it is believed to align with the time of his birth.
For New Delhi, the Madhyahna Ganesh Puja Muhurat on September 14, 2026, is from 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM.
This timing is specific to New Delhi. Other cities have different Muhurat timings because sunrise and sunset vary by location. The Madhyahna period is calculated based on local solar time, so devotees should refer to the Panchang for their specific city.
If you cannot perform the Puja during the exact Muhurat window, the daytime hours of September 14 while the Chaturthi Tithi is active are still considered appropriate for home worship.
Madhyahna refers to the midday period in the Hindu daily cycle. For Ganesh Chaturthi, this period holds special significance because of the traditional belief that Lord Ganesha was born during this time.
According to Hindu tradition, performing Ganesh Puja during Madhyahna is considered most appropriate. This is why the Sthapana (installation) of the Ganesha idol and the main Puja are traditionally scheduled during this window.
The Madhyahna period is not a fixed clock time—it is calculated based on the local sunrise and sunset. This is why the Muhurat for Delhi differs from that of Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata. The approximate duration is around two and a half hours, centered on local noon.
Ganpati Sthapana refers to the formal installation of Lord Ganesha’s idol in the home or pandal. It marks the beginning of the period of worship.
The Sthapana is traditionally performed during the Madhyahna Ganesh Puja Muhurat on September 14. Devotees bring the idol home and install it during this auspicious window.
Before the Sthapana, the puja area should be cleaned and prepared. A wooden chowki (platform) or clean surface is covered with a fresh red or yellow cloth. The idol is placed at a convenient height for daily worship.
The Sthapana typically involves:
Families unfamiliar with the full Sanskrit procedure can perform a simpler version with sincere devotion. The essential elements are a clean space, a pure intention, and offerings made with faith.
The Puja Vidhi (ritual procedure) can vary by family tradition, region, and priestly guidance. The following is a general outline of common practices.
Choose a clean area in the home. Set up a platform or chowki, cover it with a fresh cloth, and arrange all puja items nearby.
If using a clay idol, it may be placed in a shallow dish or on a plate. The idol should be clean and ready for installation.
During the Muhurat, place the idol on the platform. This is the formal installation.
Light a diya in front of Ganpati. Take water, flowers, or akshat (rice grains) in your hand and state your intention to worship Lord Ganesha for the number of days you plan to keep the idol.
Pray to invite Lord Ganesha into the idol. Chant “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah” or another Ganesha mantra followed in your family tradition.
Offer water for washing feet (Padya), water for sipping (Arghya), and water for bathing (Snana). These are traditional offerings in a formal Puja.
Apply roli, kumkum, or chandan (sandalwood paste) to the idol. Offer akshat (rice grains).
Offer fresh flowers and Durva grass. Durva is considered especially sacred to Lord Ganesha.
Offer bhog (food offering). Modak, laddoo, coconut, and seasonal fruits are common offerings.
Perform Ganesh Aarti with a diya or camphor. Sing or recite the Aarti followed in your family tradition.
Offer prayers, seek blessings, and conclude the Puja. The idol remains installed for the chosen duration.
Note: Specific ritual sequences and mantras can differ by region, community, and family tradition. The above is a general guide.
The following items are commonly used for Ganesh Chaturthi Puja. Not every item is mandatory—families may follow their own traditions.
Essential/common items: Idol, platform, cloth, Durva, flowers, modak, diya, incense.
Traditional/additional items: Kalash, Panchamrit ingredients, betel leaves, specific flowers.
Durva grass holds special significance in Ganesha worship. According to Hindu tradition, offering Durva to Lord Ganesha is considered highly meritorious.
The association comes from traditional stories. In one commonly told narrative, Durva grass was offered to Ganesha and pleased him greatly. Since then, it has become a standard offering in Ganesha Puja.
Durva is typically offered in small bundles or individual blades. Devotees often offer it with the tips pointing toward the idol. The exact manner of offering can vary by tradition.
Modak is traditionally considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet. The association is deeply embedded in Hindu tradition and folklore.
Modak is a dumpling-like sweet with a filling of coconut and jaggery (or sometimes other ingredients), enclosed in a rice flour or wheat flour shell. It can be steamed or fried.
Regional variations exist across India:
The shape of the modak—with pleated folds—is also symbolically associated with Ganesha. Families often prepare modak specially for the festival.
Fasting (Vrat) on Ganesh Chaturthi is a common practice among devotees. The nature and duration of the fast can vary.
Some devotees observe a full fast without food or water. Others consume only fruits, milk, and specific fasting foods. Some take a single meal after the Puja.
The fast is typically broken after the main Puja and Aarti, or in the evening after moonrise (for those who observe the moon-sighting restriction).
Fasting is a personal choice. Those who are unwell, pregnant, diabetic, or have other medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before undertaking a fast. Religious observance should not compromise health.
The fast is traditionally broken with Prasad (offered food) after the Puja. Some devotees break it with modak or other traditional foods.
What you can eat during the fast depends on the type of Vrat you observe and your family tradition.
Many fasting traditions avoid regular grains (rice, wheat), onions, garlic, and certain spices. However, these rules vary by region and family.
Important: Dietary rules for Vrat are not universal. Follow the tradition observed in your family or community.
A unique tradition associated with Ganesh Chaturthi is the avoidance of moon sighting. According to Hindu belief, seeing the moon on this day can invite Mithya Dosha—false accusations or blame.
The belief comes from a traditional story involving Lord Ganesha and Chandra (the Moon deity). According to the narrative, Chandra laughed at Ganesha’s appearance, and Ganesha cursed him. The curse extended to anyone who looked at the moon on Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi.
Another story connects this to Lord Krishna, who was falsely accused of stealing the Syamantaka jewel after seeing the moon on this day.
The moon-sighting restriction applies during a specific period on Ganesh Chaturthi night. The exact timing varies by location and is based on moonrise. Devotees traditionally avoid looking at the moon during this window.
Note: This is a religious tradition/belief. It is not presented as a scientific effect.
According to traditional belief, if someone accidentally sees the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi, they may experience Mithya Dosha—false blame or dishonor.
The traditional remedy involves reciting a specific mantra or listening to the story of the Syamantaka jewel. Some traditions recommend chanting the following:
“Simhah Prasenamavadhitsimho Jambavata Hatah।
Sukumaraka Marodistava Hyesha Syamantakah॥”
This relates to the Krishna-Syamantaka story. After reciting, devotees traditionally offer prayers to Lord Ganesha.
Important: This is a traditional religious practice. It is described here for informational purposes, not as a guaranteed spiritual remedy.
Ganesh Visarjan 2026—the final immersion of Lord Ganesha’s idol—is observed on Friday, September 25, 2026. This day coincides with Anant Chaturdashi.
Not all families keep the idol for the full ten days. Common Visarjan schedules include:
The choice depends on family tradition, convenience, and local custom.
Anant Chaturdashi 2026 falls on Friday, September 25. It is the fourteenth day of the Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month.
In many traditions, Anant Chaturdashi marks the conclusion of the ten-day Ganeshotsav. It is the day when the final Visarjan of Ganesha idols is performed, particularly for those who keep the idol for the full duration.
Anant Chaturdashi is a distinct observance from Ganesh Chaturthi. While Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning, Anant Chaturdashi marks the farewell.
Visarjan symbolizes the return of Lord Ganesha to his celestial abode after his earthly visit. It represents:
The ritual is performed with both joy and a sense of farewell. Devotees chant “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya” (Come again next year, Lord Ganesha) during the procession.
The Visarjan process typically includes:
Local procedures and regulations vary. Many cities designate specific immersion sites and times.
Environmental awareness has become an increasingly important part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Authorities and community organizations promote eco-friendly practices.
Idols made of Plaster of Paris (PoP) and decorated with chemical paints do not dissolve naturally. They can deplete oxygen in water bodies and release heavy metals into the environment. Karnataka State Pollution Control Board has stated that immersing idols with decorative materials can result in penalties and imprisonment.
Avoid thermocol, single-use plastic, and synthetic decorations. These do not decompose and harm aquatic life.
The following table provides Puja Muhurat timings for major cities on September 14, 2026. All timings are local to the respective city.
| City | Madhyahna Puja Muhurat |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | 11:02 AM – 1:31 PM |
| Mumbai | 11:20 AM – 1:48 PM |
| Pune | 11:16 AM – 1:44 PM |
| Hyderabad | 10:58 AM – 1:25 PM |
| Bengaluru | 11:02 AM – 1:28 PM |
| Chennai | 10:51 AM – 1:18 PM |
| Kolkata | 10:18 AM – 12:46 PM |
| Ahmedabad | 11:21 AM – 1:49 PM |
| Jaipur | 11:08 AM – 1:36 PM |
| Noida | 11:02 AM – 1:30 PM |
Important: These timings are location-specific. Do not use another city’s Muhurat for your location. Consult your local Panchang for precise timings.
Mumbai’s Ganeshotsav is the largest and most elaborate public celebration of the festival in India. The city transforms with thousands of pandals, street processions, and community events.
Lalbaugcha Raja, one of Mumbai’s most famous Ganesha pandals, draws massive crowds each year. The 2026 celebrations begin on September 14 and continue through Anant Chaturdashi on September 25.
Mumbai’s Visarjan processions, particularly on the final day, are among the most significant public events in the city. Devotees gather at Chowpatty and other beaches for immersion ceremonies.
Pune holds a special place in the history of public Ganeshotsav. The city was the center of Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s efforts to transform Ganesh Chaturthi from a private household ritual into a public festival in the 1890s.
Today, Pune’s Ganeshotsav features numerous public pandals, traditional dhol-tasha performances, and community celebrations. The city’s celebrations reflect both historical tradition and modern community participation.
Hyderabad celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi, known locally as Vinayaka Chavithi, with enthusiasm. The Khairatabad Ganesh is one of the city’s most prominent public idols, though specific details for 2026 should be verified from official sources.
Public celebrations, community pandals, and Visarjan processions are common across the city. The Puja Muhurat for Hyderabad is 10:58 AM to 1:25 PM on September 14.
In Delhi and the National Capital Region (Noida, Gurgaon/Gurugram), Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated both at home and through community pandals. Residential societies often organize collective celebrations.
The Puja Muhurat for New Delhi is 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM. Noida’s timing is similar at 11:02 AM to 1:30 PM.
Bengaluru: Puja Muhurat 11:02 AM – 1:28 PM. Celebrations include home pujas and community events.
Chennai: Puja Muhurat 10:51 AM – 1:18 PM. Known as Vinayagar Chaturthi in Tamil tradition.
Kolkata: Puja Muhurat 10:18 AM – 12:46 PM. Celebrated with home pujas and community gatherings.
Ahmedabad: Puja Muhurat 11:21 AM – 1:49 PM. Ganesh Chaturthi is widely observed in Gujarat with both home and public celebrations.
The history of Ganesh Chaturthi spans centuries, with both ancient religious traditions and more recent public festival developments.
Ganesha worship has deep roots in Hindu tradition. Historical records indicate that Ganesh Chaturthi was celebrated in Pune during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630–1680), who promoted Ganesha worship to foster unity.
The Peshwas, who served as hereditary prime ministers of the Maratha Empire, elevated the festival further. Ganesha was their family deity (kuldevata), and they sponsored grand celebrations in Pune.
The public celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in its current form is closely associated with Bal Gangadhar Tilak (1856–1920), a nationalist leader and social reformer. In 1893, amid communal tensions and British colonial restrictions on public gatherings, Tilak organized the first Sarvajanik (public) Ganesh Utsav.
Tilak saw the festival as a way to unite people, foster cultural pride, and create a platform for nationalist expression. The public celebration spread across Maharashtra and eventually throughout India.
Note: The modern public festival was not “invented” by one person in isolation. Tilak’s efforts built upon existing traditions and responded to specific historical circumstances.
The transformation of Ganesh Chaturthi from a private household observance to a major public festival involved several factors:
Today, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated across India and by Hindu communities worldwide. The scale ranges from simple home pujas to massive public pandals with elaborate decorations.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated as the traditional birth celebration of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is revered in Hindu tradition as:
Devotees worship Lord Ganesha before beginning new ventures, important journeys, or significant life events. The festival provides an opportunity for community gathering, spiritual reflection, and cultural expression.
According to Hindu tradition, Ganesh Chaturthi is observed as the birth celebration of Lord Ganesha. The festival marks the day when Goddess Parvati is believed to have created Ganesha and he received his elephant head.
Different Hindu traditions may have variations in the story, but the association of Ganesh Chaturthi with Ganesha’s birth is widely accepted across Hindu communities.
The traditional story of Ganesha’s birth, as commonly told in Hindu tradition:
Goddess Parvati, while preparing for a bath, created a boy from the turmeric paste from her body and breathed life into him. She instructed him to guard the entrance and not allow anyone to enter.
When Lord Shiva returned, the boy blocked his path. A confrontation ensued, and in anger, Shiva severed the boy’s head. When Parvati saw what had happened, she was grief-stricken and demanded that the boy be restored to life.
Shiva sent his followers to bring the head of the first living being they found facing north. They found an elephant, and its head was placed on the boy’s body. Ganesha was restored to life and declared the leader of Shiva’s followers (Ganas).
Note: This is a traditional Hindu religious narrative. Different regions and traditions may have variations.
Hindu tradition contains multiple stories and interpretations related to Lord Ganesha. Some of these include:
Not every story is found identically across all scriptures. Hindu tradition is diverse, and different communities emphasize different aspects of Ganesha’s mythology.
In Hindu tradition, Lord Ganesha is traditionally worshipped first before other deities. This practice is based on the belief that Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and must be invoked before beginning any auspicious activity.
The custom of Ganesha Prarthana (invocation) at the start of religious ceremonies, weddings, new ventures, and festivals is widespread across Hindu communities.
The festival is known by different names in different regions:
| Region | Common Name |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | Ganesh Chaturthi, Ganeshotsav |
| Andhra Pradesh/Telangana | Vinayaka Chavithi |
| Tamil Nadu | Vinayagar Chaturthi |
| Karnataka | Varasiddhi Vinayaka Vrata |
| General | Vinayaka Chaturthi, Ganesh Chauth |
These terms refer to the same festival, though regional customs and rituals may differ.
Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganesh Jayanti are distinct observances.
| Aspect | Ganesh Chaturthi | Ganesh Jayanti |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi (Aug–Sep) | Magha Shukla Chaturthi (Jan–Feb) |
| Significance | Celebration of Ganesha’s birth | Also associated with Ganesha’s birth/incarnation |
| Regional emphasis | Widely celebrated across India | More prominent in some regions |
They should not be treated as the same festival.
Sankashti Chaturthi is observed monthly on the Chaturthi Tithi of Krishna Paksha (waning moon). It is a monthly observance dedicated to Lord Ganesha, distinct from the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
Ganesh Chaturthi occurs once a year; Sankashti Chaturthi occurs monthly.
| Aspect | Ganesh Chaturthi | Anant Chaturdashi |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | September 14, 2026 | September 25, 2026 |
| Significance | Beginning of Ganeshotsav | Concluding day for many 10-day celebrations |
| Main ritual | Sthapana and Puja | Visarjan (final immersion) |
The duration of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations varies by family and community tradition:
The choice depends on family tradition, convenience, and local custom.
The idol should ideally be brought home and installed during the Sthapana Muhurat on September 14. However, families often coordinate the timing with their priest or according to their tradition.
There is no single universally mandated arrival time. What matters is that the Sthapana is performed with devotion and, if possible, during the auspicious window.
General traditional guidance for placing the Ganesha idol:
Note: According to some Vastu traditions, specific directions are preferred. These are traditional beliefs, not universal requirements.
Clay idols are generally recommended as they are eco-friendly and dissolve safely during immersion. Small, home-friendly idols are practical for most households.
Other options include:
The choice depends on personal preference, space, and tradition.
Yes. Household traditions vary. Some families keep the idol for one day and perform Visarjan the next day. Others keep it for one-and-a-half days, three days, or longer.
There is no requirement to keep the idol for ten days. The duration is a personal and family choice.
Common offerings to Lord Ganesha include:
Not every offering is mandatory. Offer what is available with devotion.
According to some traditions, certain items are avoided in Ganesha Puja:
Important: These are religious traditions and can vary. Do not assume universal prohibition.
Devotees commonly recite:
Family traditions determine which prayers are recited. For Aarti, the specific devotional songs may vary by region and community.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 14, 2026 | Ganesh Chaturthi — Sthapana and main Puja |
| September 15, 2026 | Chaturthi Tithi ends at 7:44 AM |
| September 16–24, 2026 | Continued celebrations (duration varies) |
| September 25, 2026 | Anant Chaturdashi — major Visarjan day |
Ganesh Chaturthi is a public holiday in several Indian states, but not uniformly across all of India.
States with confirmed public holiday on September 14, 2026:
In these states, government offices, schools, and banks are typically closed. However, holiday status can vary by institution and local administration.
Banks will be closed on September 14 in states where Ganesh Chaturthi is a notified holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act. In other states, banks may operate normally.
Private banks and financial institutions may follow different schedules. It is advisable to check with your specific bank.
School closures vary by state and institution. In states where Ganesh Chaturthi is a public holiday, government and many aided schools are closed on September 14.
Autonomous institutions and private schools may have different schedules. Parents should check with their child’s school for specific information.
The festival is observed on:
When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2026?
Monday, September 14, 2026.
Is Ganesh Chaturthi on September 14 or 15?
September 14 is the main observance day. The Chaturthi Tithi begins at 7:06 AM on September 14 and ends at 7:44 AM on September 15.
What time is Ganesh Chaturthi Puja?
The Madhyahna Puja Muhurat varies by city. For New Delhi, it is 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM.
When does Chaturthi Tithi start?
7:06 AM on September 14, 2026.
When does Chaturthi Tithi end?
7:44 AM on September 15, 2026.
When is Ganpati Sthapana?
During the Madhyahna Puja Muhurat on September 14.
When is Ganesh Visarjan?
Friday, September 25, 2026 (Anant Chaturdashi).
Is September 25 Anant Chaturdashi?
Yes. Anant Chaturdashi 2026 falls on Friday, September 25.
Can Ganpati be kept for one day?
Yes. Family traditions vary. One-day observance is common.
Can Ganpati be immersed before Anant Chaturdashi?
Yes. Many families perform Visarjan after 1.5, 3, 5, or 7 days.
What is the best time for Ganesh Puja?
The Madhyahna (midday) period, ideally during the specified Muhurat for your city.
Can we perform Ganesh Puja at night?
Yes, if the Muhurat is not feasible, daytime Puja on September 14 is acceptable. Some families also perform evening Aarti.
What are the main Puja Samagri items?
Idol, platform, cloth, Durva, flowers, modak, diya, incense, and other traditional items.
Why should the moon not be seen on Ganesh Chaturthi?
According to traditional belief, seeing the moon on this day can invite Mithya Dosha (false blame).
1. When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2026?
Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 is on Monday, September 14, 2026.
2. What day is Ganesh Chaturthi in 2026?
The festival falls on a Monday.
3. When does Ganesh Chaturthi Tithi begin?
The Chaturthi Tithi begins at 7:06 AM on September 14, 2026.
4. When does Chaturthi Tithi end?
The Tithi ends at 7:44 AM on September 15, 2026.
5. What is the Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Muhurat in Delhi?
In New Delhi, the Madhyahna Puja Muhurat is 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM.
6. What is Ganpati Sthapana?
Ganpati Sthapana is the formal installation of the Ganesha idol, performed during the Puja Muhurat.
7. When is Ganesh Visarjan 2026?
Ganesh Visarjan is on Friday, September 25, 2026.
8. When is Anant Chaturdashi 2026?
Anant Chaturdashi falls on September 25, 2026.
9. How many days is Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated?
Celebrations range from 1.5 days to 10 days, depending on family tradition.
10. Can Ganpati be kept for one day?
Yes. One-day observance is common in many households.
11. What are the main Ganesh Puja Samagri items?
Idol, platform, cloth, Durva, flowers, modak, roli, kumkum, akshat, diya, incense, and offerings.
12. What should be offered to Lord Ganesha?
Durva, flowers, modak, laddoo, coconut, and fruits are common offerings.
13. Why is Durva offered to Ganesha?
Durva is considered sacred to Ganesha according to Hindu tradition.
14. Why is Modak associated with Ganesha?
Modak is traditionally considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet.
15. Can we see the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi?
Traditional belief advises against moon sighting on this day.
16. Why is moon sighting avoided?
According to tradition, seeing the moon can invite Mithya Dosha (false blame).
17. Is Ganesh Chaturthi a public holiday?
It is a public holiday in several states, including Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Gujarat, and Puducherry.
18. Is Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated across India?
Yes. The festival is celebrated across India, with regional variations in customs and scale.
19. What is the difference between Ganesh Chaturthi and Anant Chaturdashi?
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning of the festival; Anant Chaturdashi marks the concluding day for many 10-day celebrations.
20. What is an eco-friendly Ganesh idol?
An eco-friendly idol is made from natural clay or biodegradable materials, often with natural colors, that dissolve safely without harming the environment.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 arrives on Monday, September 14, bringing with it the familiar rhythms of devotion, family gathering, and community celebration. The Chaturthi Tithi begins at 7:06 AM and continues into the next morning, with the main Puja performed during the Madhyahna period. In New Delhi, that window is 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM, though devotees should consult their local Panchang for precise city-specific timings.
The festival spans from Sthapana to Visarjan, with families choosing durations that suit their traditions—whether one-and-a-half days, five days, or the full ten until Anant Chaturdashi on September 25. Each choice is valid. What matters is the spirit of devotion and the care taken in celebration.