Photos show Indians marking final day of Ganesh Chaturthi that ends with sea immersion

Mumbai Celebrates the Final Day of Ganesh Chaturthi

MUMBAI, India (AP) — Indians celebrated the final day of the Ganesh Chaturthi, a vibrant, 10-day Hindu festival commemorating the birth of Lord Ganesha. Ganesha is revered as the remover of obstacles, as well as the god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings.

During the festival, devotees transport images of the elephant-headed Hindu god to a nearby beach, where they ceremonially immerse it into the sea as a way of bidding farewell.

A Festive Tradition

Marked by millions of devotees all over India, Ganesh Chaturthi is especially popular in Mumbai, a major coastal metropolis and business center in western India. The city comes alive with colorful processions, elaborate decorations, and traditional music and dance performances.

A Symbol of Unity

Despite being a religious festival, Ganesh Chaturthi transcends barriers of caste, creed, and social status, bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. The festival is a symbol of unity and community spirit.

A Time for Reflection

As the festival comes to a close, devotees reflect on the teachings of Lord Ganesha and the values he represents. They look forward to a future filled with wisdom, prosperity, and new opportunities, inspired by the spirit of the beloved deity.

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This article was curated by AP photo editors.

Rajanish Kakade And Rafiq Maqbool, The Associated Press