Ganesh Chaturthi (Vinayaka Chavithi) is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Telugu states. Observed on Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi (usually in August–September), it celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha — the remover of obstacles and god of new beginnings. Celebrations last 1, 3, 5, 7, or 11 days before the immersion (Visarjan) on Anantha Chaturdashi.

Setting Up the Ganesha Idol

Most Telugu families install a clay (eco-friendly) Ganesha idol at home. The idol is placed on a decorated platform (mantap), facing north or east. Mango leaves are hung, kolam drawn, and a Kalasha (water pot) established alongside. Doorways are decorated with toranams. The idol installation (Pranapratishtha) is performed by the head of the family with mantras, or by a pandit for elaborate ceremonies.

Puja Vidhanam and Prasadam

The daily puja includes Ganapati Shodashopachara (16-step worship), offering of Modak (Kudumulu in Telugu — steamed dumplings with jaggery-coconut filling, Ganesha's favorite), Doob grass (Durva), red hibiscus flowers, and 21 types of patri (leaves). Vrat Katha recitation, devotional songs (Suprabhatam, Ashtakam), and Harathi conclude each puja session.

Visarjan on Anantha Chaturdashi

On the final day (Anantha Chaturdashi), the idol is taken in a procession with music and dancing to a water body (river, pond, or sea) for immersion. In Hyderabad, the Hussain Sagar immersion procession is one of the largest in India. Eco-friendly immersion of clay idols is encouraged. Before Visarjan, the deity is ceremonially bid farewell with Uttara Puja and a prayer for return next year.