Your kids might have asked the question, ‘Why do we do Ganesh Visarjan?’
Just like the arrival of a loved one brings us immense joy and their departure leaves us sad and teary, devotees of Lord Ganesh feel very similar emotions when they bring his idol to their homes at the start of Ganesh Chaturthi and when they take him for Visarjan on the last day. He is considered a member of the family who visits once a year for a few days and then departs for his home in Mount Kailash. In this blog, we will discuss the significance of Ganesh Visarjan for kids. We will also explore the story behind Ganesh Visarjan and its evolution over the years.
Importance Of Ganesh Visarjan for Children
On the first day of the festival, devotees place Ganesh’s idol in their homes and offices and on the last day, they take out processions carrying their beloved idol for Visarjan or immersion. Many people wonder why we do Ganesh Visarjan. Lord Ganesh is worshipped as “the Remover of Obstacles” and “the Lord of New Beginnings,” and devotees believe that when his idol is taken out for Visarjan, it also removes all obstacles from their homes and workplaces which are destroyed with his Visarjan.
The immersion of the idol signifies Lord Ganesha’s return to his divine abode, reminding devotees of the continuous cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This act of Visarjan is not just a ritual but a deeply spiritual experience for many, symbolising detachment and the understanding that nothing in life is permanent.
Did your kids know why we do Ganesh Visarjan or why Lord Ganesha’s Idol is immersed in water? The reason behind Lord Ganesh’s idol being immersed in a water body is that the ocean represents God or the Infinite, and the idol is the soul, which is seeking Moksha or salvation. The soul, being immortal, leaves behind its mortal body to unite with the Infinite.
The tradition of Visarjan reminds people that all possessions are temporary and will eventually pass away. Devotees bid farewell to the Ganesh idol during Visarjan, but his presence stays with them in the form of energy.
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How Did the Tradition Evolve?
The months of August and September see most of India, especially Maharashtra, buzzing with activity as people prepare for the festivities to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. Lately, there’s been a lot of debate regarding the inconvenience caused by the processions and boisterous celebrations that are part and parcel of this festival. What is ironic is that this divide goes completely against the reasons that Ganesh Chaturthi became the decorated affair it is.
The history of Ganesh Visarjan dates back a long way, and many believe that the celebration of Lord Ganesh’s birth dates back to 271 BC, when the Satavahana, Chalukya, and Rashtrakuta dynasties were still in power. Others believe Chatrapati Shivaji started it to promote culture and nationalism among Indians. However, what can’t be disputed is that originally, this festival was celebrated as a quiet family affair. Still, it has now evolved into a celebration where all sections of society come together.
The person responsible for this is Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who, after the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, realised the need to unite Indians who were divided by the rigid caste system. Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival that transcends caste barriers and hierarchy, celebrating faith and joy among all strata of society. Tilak recognised this and used it to unite the people. This is one of the key moments in history related to Ganpathi visarjan significance.
In 1893, Bal Gangadhar Tilak introduced India to what is now known as Ganapati Visarjan, a way to bring Indians from all walks of life together. This is where the Ganesh visarjan story first began. He brought people together to celebrate, and this spread to other parts of the country like wildfire. Ganesh Visarjan became a meeting ground for people, encouraging gatherings without raising suspicion at a time when the British government had banned all public meetings.
Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi Activities in School
Precautions During Ganpati Visarjan- 5 Key Safety Tips to Remember
Now that you know why we do Visarjan of Ganpati, let’s look at some precautions you can take during Ganpati Visarjan this year to avoid any mishap or possible dangers.
- Processions
- Firecrackers
- First-aid Box and Water
- Start Early and Be Punctual
- Precautions at the Seashore
Ganesh Visarjan’s story is incomplete without processions. Ganesh Visarjan includes huge processions of people from all age groups dancing to the chants of Lord Ganapati. Before starting the procession, you should always think about the route which the procession will follow. At least two people should take the responsibility of guiding the procession — one should guide the traffic, and the other should lead the procession on the correct route. At least four people should hold ropes on both sides of the procession, as that will help people to move ahead easily and will be convenient for vehicles.
Crackers should only be lit in open and wide spaces and definitely not on roads. Children should be kept at a safe distance from the crackers. If possible, crackers should be avoided to prevent pollution.
These two things should always be carried during Visarjan to take care of any small mishap. They can help you tide over a situation till help arrives.
The Visarjan procession should start at the right time and quite early, otherwise the roads and seashore can get very crowded. Also, the police might not allow you to play music on the road if you are late. In any case, rather than playing loud music on the road, an Aarti or chanting can be done during the procession, as this is cost-effective and reduces noise pollution.
If the idol is too big, a boat can be arranged for Visarjan, and only people who can swim should enter the sea. At all times, children should be kept away from this task, and lifeguards should be present. The idol can also be immersed in the artificial ponds created by the government, wherever available. As far as possible, try to celebrate an eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi as it’s safer for you and others. Pollution is increasing, so consider buying small Ganesh idols and learning how to perform Ganesh Visarjan at home.
Also Read: Easy Ganesh Chaturthi Essays for Kids
FAQs About Why we do Ganesh Visarjan and more
- Why do we do Ganesh Visarjan?
- What is the story behind Ganesh Visarjan?
- What happens to idols after Visarjan?
Ganesh Visarjan marks Lord Ganesh’s return to Mount Kailash. It reminds us that while the idol departs, his presence remains in our hearts.
According to mythology, Ved Vyas immersed Ganesha in water to cool him down after being made from mud. Since then, devotees worship Ganesha for 10 days and conclude with a ceremony known as Ganesh Visarjan, which involves the immersion of Lord Ganesh’s idol in water.
Eco-friendly idols dissolve naturally in water, turning into soil and nurturing plants, leaving no pollution behind.
Also Read: Eco Friendly Ganesh Idols
Conclusion
Festivals are a time of joy and celebration, and they really bring people together. However, it’s also essential to comprehend the significance of the festival we are celebrating, as well as the history behind its traditions and the precautions we must take to ensure our safety and that of those around us. With this article, “Why we do Ganesh Visarjan,” we aim to provide detailed information on Ganesh Visarjan, the story behind Ganesh Visarjan, and more. For more such blogs on your little one’s learning, curriculum, admission, or nutrition, visit EuroKids Blogs. Don’t forget to check out EuroKids Preschools for the first step in your child’s learning journey.
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