Ganesha Mantra

Chant this Mantra for Success

Vakrtund Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha ||

Nirbhignam Kurumedaya Sarva Karyashu Sarvada ||

Hindu Calendar: Months, Days, Eras & Epochs

What are the months and days of the Hindu year called?

The various Hindu calendars are based on eras and epochs. Generally, the Hindu calendar follows the lunar year that consists of 12 lunar months. A lunar month has two fortnights. The following lists mention the Sanskrit names of the Hindu months, days and lunar days and their correlation with the Gregorian calendar.

The Hindu Eras & Epochs

• Kali Yuga (Current Epoch): Started 3012 BC
• Vikram Samvant Era (Financial Year in Northern India): Started 57 AD
• Saka Era (India's National Calendar): Started 78 AD

The Hindu Months

Names of the 12 months of the Indian Civil Calendar and Correlation with Gregorian Calendar

1. Chaitra (30 / 31* Days) Begins March 22 / 21*
2. Vaisakha (31 Days) Begins April 21
3. Jyaistha (31 Days) Begins May 22
4. Asadha (31 Days) Begins June 22
5. Shravana (31 Days) Begins July 23
6. Bhadra (31 Days) Begins August 23
7. Asvina (30 Days) Begins September 23
8. Kartika (30 Days) Begins October 23
9. Agrahayana (30 Days) Begins November 22
10. Pausa (30 Days) Begins December 22
11. Magha (30 Days) Begins January 21
12. Phalguna (30 Days) Begins February 20
    * Leap years

The Hindu Days

Names of the 7 Days in the Hindu Week

1. Raviãra: Sunday (day of Sun)
2. Somavãra: Monday (day of Moon)
3. Mañgalvã: Tuesday (day of Mars)
4. Budhavãra: Wednesday (day of Mercury)
5. Guruvãra: Thursday (day of Jupiter)
6. Sukravãra: Friday (day of Venus)
7. Sanivãra: Saturday (day of Saturn)

The Hindu Moon Days

Names of 15 Moon Days in the Hindu Month

1. Prathamã First
2. Dvitïyã Second
3. Trtïyã Third
4. Chaturthï Fourth
5. Pañchamï Fifth
6. Sasthï Sixth
7. Saptamï Seventh
8. Astamï Eighth
9. Navamï Ninth
10. Dasamï Tenth
11. Ekãdasï Eleventh
12. Dvadasï Twelfth
13. Trayodasï Thirteenth
14. Chaturdasï Fourteenth
15. Panchadasï Fifteenth
16. Purnimã (Suklapaksha) Full Moon
17. Amãvãsyã (Krsnapaksa) New Moon

5 Famous Mumbai Ganesh Mandals { Part - 5 }

Andhericha Raja

क्लिक हियर फॉर लार्ज साइज़ Andhericha Raja, Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Utsav Samitee

The Andhericha Raja is to the Mumbai suburbs what the Lalbaugcha Raja is to south Mumbai. The mandal was established in 1966 by the workers of the Tobacco company, Tata Special Steel and Excel Industries Ltd, who moved from Lalbaug to be closer to their factories.

Compared to many other famous mandals in Mumbai, the idol isn't as towering or imposing. However, it has a reputation for fulfilling wishes. The mandal also usually has a novel theme and other attractions, which have in the past included sand sculpture and a mela (carnival).

• Location: Veera Desai Road, Azad Nagar, Andheri (western Mumbai suburbs).
• Nearest Railway Station: Andheri.
• When to Visit: Evenings are busiest, however devotees have an extra day to see the God. The idol is the only one in Mumbai to be immersed on Sankashthi Day, which is the day after Anant Chaturdashi (the last day of the festival when large idols are commonly immersed).

The procession for the immersion starts out in the late afternoon and takes the following route: Azad Nagar II, Veera Desai Road, J P Road Amboli, S V Road, Andheri MarketNavrang Cinema-Sony Mony-Apna Bazar-Indian Oil Nagar Junction-Four Bungalows-Seven Bungalows-Versova Bus Depot, and finally to Versova village. It takes around 20 hours.

More information is available from the Andhericha Raja website.

5 Famous Mumbai Ganesh Mandals { Part - 4 }

GSB Seva Kings Circle

क्लिक हियर फॉर लार्ज साइज़ GSB Seva Kings Circle

The GSB Seva Ganesh mandal is affectionately known as Mumbai's gold Ganesh. Yes, that's pure gold it's adorned with -- more than 60 kilograms of it! The mandal, often stated to be the richest in the city, was founded by the Gowd Saraswat Brahmin community from Karnataka in 1954. They've prospered in Mumbai, and as a mark of respect to the city they conduct various social programs along with a grand celebration of the Ganesh Festival.

The idol is always an eco-friendly one, made out of clay. The mandal is also distinctive because there's none of the usual recorded music there. Instead, traditional Indian musical instruments used in south Indian temples are played.

A convenient aspect of this mandal is that it has an elevated walkway set up to aid viewing of the idol.

• Location: G.S.B. Sports Club Ground, Near S.N.D.T. Women's College, R.A. Kidwai Road, King's Circle, Matunga (central Mumbai).
• Nearest Railway Station: Kings Circle on the Harbour Line and Matunga on the Central Line.
• When to Visit: This Ganesh idol only stays for the first five days of the festival, so see it early.

5 Famous Mumbai Ganesh Mandals { Part - 3 }

Khetwadi Ganraj

क्लिक हियर फॉर लार्ज साइज़ Khetwadi 12th lane Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal

The award winning Khetwadi Ganraj is considered to be one of the most spectacular Ganesh idols in Mumbai. The mandal was established in 1959 but found fame in 2000, when it made the highest Ganesh idol in Indian history, standing 40 feet tall. The idol is decked out in real gold jewelry. One year, it was even studded with real diamonds.

An added attraction when visiting the Khetwadi Ganraj is that there's a Ganesh idol in almost every lane in the area -- so you'll have plenty to see!

• Location: 12th Lane Kehetwadi, Girgaum (south Mumbai).
• Nearest Railway Station: The nearest stations are Charni Road and Sandhurst Road.
• When to Visit: During the day is best. Peak time is in the evenings from dusk to midnight.

More information is available from the Khetwadi Ganraj website.

5 Famous Mumbai Ganesh Mandals { Part - 2 }

Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja

क्लिक हियर फॉर लार्ज साइज़ Ganesh Galli Mumbaich Raja

The Mumbaicha Raja, in Ganesh Galli (Lane), is located only a couple of lanes away from theLalbaugcha Raja and is also very popular. It lost its shine to the Lalbaugcha Raja in the late 1990s but still pulls in the crowds.

The mandal is well known for its lavish new themes every year, often a replica of a famous place in India. It was formed for the benefit of the mill workers in 1928, making it the oldest one in the area.

• Location: Ganesh Galli (Lane), Lalbaug (central Mumbai).
• Nearest Railway Station: Chinchpokli, Curry Road, and Lower Parel railway stations are close by.
• Waiting Time: Can be as little as 20 minutes, or a few hours.
• When to Visit: It's always busy. Peak hours are in the afternoon and night from 3 p.m until 2 a.m.

The procession for the immersion (visarjan) on the last day of the festival starts out from 9.30 a.m. and takes the following route: Dr. S.S Rao Road, Ganesh Cinema, Chinchpokli Bridge, Arthur Road Corner, Saat Rasta, Sane Guruji Marg, Agreepada, Dr. Bhadkamkar Marg, Opera House, Willson Collage, Girgaon Chowpatty.

More information is available from the Mumbaicha Raja website.

5 Famous Mumbai Ganesh Mandals { Part - 1 }

Lalbaugcha Raja

क्लिक हियर फॉर लार्ज साइज़ Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal.

The Lalbaugcha Raja, King of Lalbaug, is undoubtedly the most famous Ganesh statue in Mumbai. The mandal was founded in 1934, and has grown to be the most visited one in the city.

If you want to see the lengths people are prepared to go to for devotion, the Lalbaugcha Raja is the idol to visit. It draws an average of 1.5 million people a day -- astonishing! People simply believe that this Ganesh idol can fulfill their wishes, and there's a lot of media attention on it.

There are two main lines to see the idol: a general line, and line for those wanting to make a vow or get a wish fulfilled (navas). The navas line takes devotees right to the idol's feet, whereas the general line offers viewing (darshan) from a distance of around 10 meters away. Until recently, it was common for the navas line to stretch snake-like for over five kilometers. However the organizer has started providing huge air conditioned tents in the adjacent ground to accommodate everyone.

• Location: GD Ambedkar Road, Lalbaug (central Mumbai).
• Nearest Railway Station: Walking distance from Lower Parel, Curry Road, and Chinchpolki stations.
• Waiting Time: Can be 20 hours or more in the navas line. General line takes around five hours.
• When to Visit: It's open around the clock. However, the busiest time is in the evening until midnight.

The procession for the immersion (visarjan) starts out at 10 a.m. from the Lalbaug market on the final day of the festival, and takes the following route: Lalbaug, Bharat Mata Theatre, Lalbaug, Sane Guruji Marg, Byculla Railway Station, Clare Road, Nagpada, Dunkan Road, Don Taki, Sant Sena Maharaj Marg (Kumbharwada), Suthar Gully, Madhav Baug, C.P. Tank, V.P. Road, Opera House, Girgaon Chowpatti.

More information is available from the Lalbaugcha Raja website.

Top 5 Mumbai Ganesh Festival Hotels

Where Best to Stay for the Mumbai Ganesh Festival

If you're planning on being in Mumbai for the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, you can make it easier for yourself by staying at a hotel that's close to the celebrations -- particularly where the statues are immersed in the sea -- as the crowds can be formidable.  Most of the famous Ganesh statues in Mumbai get immersed at Girgaum Chowpatty (beach), on Marine Drive in south Mumbai.  Juhu beach is another popular immersion point, along with Versova beach, in the western suburbs. These five hotels in south Mumbai are the best picks around Girgaum Chowpatty for all budgets.

1. Marine Plaza

The Marine Plaza is a relatively small hotel that has 40 suites and 28 sea facing rooms, and a fabulous location right on Marine Drive only 10 minutes walk from where the immersions take place.  Renowned features are the rooftop glass bottom swimming pool, Geoffry's English Pub and The Bayview 24 hour cafe (with midnight buffet, and as to be expected, panoramic views of the bay). Double rooms cost around $200 per night.

2. InterContinental Marine Drive

The InterContinental Marine Drive is, as its name suggests, also on Marine Drive. However, it's located further down towards Colaba than the Marine Plaza. It's a boutique luxury hotel with 57 guest rooms, three restaurants, and one of Mumbai's most unforgettable bars, Dome. Expect to pay around $230 per night for a double.

3. West End Hotel

The West End Hotel is a cheaper option, with rooms going for around $100 for a double. It's located in between the Marine Plaza and InterContinental, but a couple of streets back from Marine Drive. The hotel has 80 rooms in an old style building, constructed in 1948. It's a little tired looking but is excellent value for a budget hotel in that area. Rooms are big and clean, food is great, and staff are really friendly.

4. Krishna Palace Residency

The Krishna Palace Residency is located near Grant Road East Railway Station, less than a kilometer from Girgaum Chowpatty.  It's a modern hotel, with 68 rooms and two specialty restaurants (one fine dining and the other vegetarian). The great thing about staying at this hotel is that it's close to Khetwadi so you'll be able to see the Ganesh statues in all the lanes, including the Khetwadi Ganraj, and join in the processions.  Rooms are priced at around $120 per night for a double.

5. Hotel Grant

If you're really on a budget, then your best option is Hotel Grant. It's located not far from the Krishna Palace Residency, very close to Khetwadi. Hence it's in an excellent spot for following the street processions to Girgaum Chowpatty.  There are 36 simply furnished rooms, with rates starting from 1,370 rupees ($30) for a double.

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When is Ganesh Chaturthi in 2012, 2013, 2014?

Question: When is Ganesh Chaturthi in 2012, 2013, 2014?

Answer:

The date of Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the fourth day after the new moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. This is August or September each year. It's commonly celebrated for 11 days, with the biggest spectacle taking place on the last day called Ananta Chaturdasi.

• In 2012, Ganesh Chaturthi is on September 19 (Ananta Chaturdasi on September 29).
• In 2013, Ganesh Chaturthi is on September 9 (Ananta Chaturdasi on September 19).
• In 2014, Ganesh Chaturthi is on August 29 (Ananta Chaturdasi on September 8).

Guide to the 2012 Ganesh Chaturthi Festival in India

This spectacular festival honors the birth of the beloved Hindu elephant-headed god, Lord Ganesha, popularly worshiped for his ability to remove obstacles and bring good fortune.

When is Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated:

Late August or early September, depending on the cycle of the moon. It falls on the fourth day after new moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. In 2012, Ganesh Chaturthi is on September 19. It is celebrated for 11 days (ending on September 29), with the biggest spectacle taking place on the last day called Ananta Chaturdasi day.

Find out when is Ganesh Chaturthi in future years.

Where is Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated:

Mostly in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. One of the best places to experience the festival is in the city of Mumbai. Celebrations take place in a special way at the towering Siddhivinayak temple, located in the central suburb of Prabhadevi, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. An incalculable number of devotees visit the temple to join in prayers and pay their respects to the God during the festival. In addition, around 10,000 statues of Lord Ganesh are displayed at various locations in the city. Guide to Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai.

How is Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated:

The festival begins with the installation of huge elaborately crafted statutes of Ganesha in homes and podiums, which have been especially constructed and beautifully decorated. Artisans put months of effort into making the statues. It's forbidden to look at the moon on this first night as legend had it the moon laughed at Lord Ganesha when he fell from his vehicle, the rat. On Ananta Chaturdasi (the last day), the statues are paraded through the streets, accompanied by much singing and dancing, and then immersed in the ocean or other bodies of water. In Mumbai alone, more than 150,000 statues are immersed each year!

What Rituals are Performed During Ganesh Chaturthi:

Once a statue of Lord Ganesh is installed, a ceremony is undertaken to invoke his holy presence into the statue. This ritual is called the Pranapratishhtha Puja, during which a number of mantras are recited. Following this a special worship is performed. Offerings of sweets, flowers, rice, coconut, jaggery and coins are made to the God. The statue is also anointed with red chandan powder. Prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha every day during the festival. Temples devoted to Lord Ganesha also organize special events and prayers. Those who have a Ganesha statue in their house treat and care for him as a much loved guest.

Why are the Ganesh Statues Immersed in Water at the End of the Festival:

Hindus worship idols, or statues, of their gods because it gives them a visible form to pray to. They also recognize that the universe is in a constant state of change. Form eventually gives away to formlessness. However, the energy still remains. The immersion of the statues in the ocean, or other bodies of water, and subsequent destruction of them serves as a reminder of this belief.

What to Expect During Ganesh Chaturthi:

The festival is celebrated in a very public manner. Local communities compete with each other to put up the biggest and best Ganesha statue and display. Expect very crowded streets, filled with boisterous devotees, and lots of music.

Ganesha Hymn (Aarti)

Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh!

Get the Hindi lyrics and the English translation of the most popular song for Lord Ganesha: "Jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh deva / Mata jaki Parvati, pita Mahadeva." You can also listen to the Real Audio song by Hariharan here.

Jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh deva
Mata jaki Parvati, pita Mahadeva.

Ek dant dayavant, char bhuja dhari
Mathe par tilak sohe, muse ki savari
Pan chadhe, phul chadhe, aur chadhe meva
Ladduan ka bhog lage, sant kare seva.

Jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh deva,
Mata jaki Parvati, pita Mahadeva...

Andhan ko ankh det, kodhin ko kaya
Banjhan ko putra det, nirdhan ko maya
Surya shaam sharan aye, safal kije seva.

Jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh, jai Ganesh deva,
Mata jaki Parvati, Pita Mahadeva...

Listen to the above hymn in Real Audio (Courtesy: Rudra Centre)

English Translation of the Hindi Hymn:

Glory to you, O Lord Ganesha!
Born of Parvati, daughter of the Himalayas, and the great Shiva.

O Lord of compassion, you have a single tusk, four arms,
A vermilion mark of on your forehead, and ride on a mouse.
People offer you betel leaves, blossoms, fruits
And sweets, while saints and seers worship you.

Glory to you, O Lord Ganesha!
Born of Parvati, daughter of the Himalayas, and the great Shiva.

You bestow vision on the blind, chastened body on the leprous,
Children on the sterile, and wealth on the destitute.
We pray to thee day and night, please bestow success upon us.

Glory to you, O Lord Ganesha!
Born of Parvati, daughter of the Himalayas, and the great Shiva.

Colourful processions mark Ganesh idol immersion

Cranes were used for immersing Ganesh idols at Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore on Sunday.

Elaborate arrangements made at 36 lakes and tanks

Colourful processions carrying Ganesh idols for immersion were taken out here on Sunday, as thousands of devotees bid goodbye to the elephant god following Ganesh Chaturthi.

Elaborate arrangements were made at 36 lakes and tanks in Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) limits for immersion of idols even as a heavy posse of police personnel was deployed around the immersion points to prevent any untoward incidents.

At Ulsoor Lake, the authorities had deployed two cranes to lift huge idols and immerse them. Volunteers were seen helping devotees in the immersion process, while barricades had been put up to prevent devotees from going near the water. Among thousands of devotees gathered around the lake was a group of foreigners, curiously watching the immersion of idols.

Traffic was diverted on several thoroughfares around Ulsoor Lake, Sankey Tank, Yediyur Lake, Nagawara Lake, Hebbal Lake and other places where the BBMP had made arrangements for immersion.

Prohibitory orders was imposed in parts of Bangalore East and Bangalore North, and liquor shops were asked to remain closed on Sunday and Monday.

BBMP Commissioner Rajneesh Goel said that cranes were deployed at Ulsoor, Yediyur, Sankey and Hebbal immersion points to enable smooth immersion of idols. The BBMP has requested citizens to complete immersion of idols before the end of this month so that cleaning operations could be taken up. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Krishna Bhat, about 1,500 police personnel were deployed around Ulsoor Lake on Sunday when at least 400 idols were immersed. Since traffic had been diverted, there were no traffic snarls, he said and added that police personnel were making recordings of the processions.