Ganesh Chaturthi is huge in some parts of the country and it seems Gurgaon is also catching up. Residential societies across the city have put up pandals (large tents) to welcome Lord Ganesha on Ganesh Chauturthi.
RB Madhekar, founder and president of Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samiti, says that they have been celebrating Ganeshotsav for the past 23 years. "This is the 24th year of celebrations and they’re quite elaborate this time. We are celebrating in DLF Phase II community centre and have brought an eco-friendly Ganesha idol. We are performing Maha Arti by lighting 1,000 diyas during the pooja."
Many residents have pledged to make it an eco-friendly affair. "We have been celebrating Ganesh Pooja for many years in the society. We will make sure to buy Ganesha idol made of 'miti' which is considered extremely auspicious. We prepare a variety of prasad (sweets) and do grand arti," says Brunda V, a resident of Tarun Apartments on Sohna road.
"Not only have we brought an eco-friendly idol, we will also make sure that we don’t pollute any natural water bodies on the Visarjan day. I will make a small pond at my home and perform the Visarjan rituals in it. Later the water will be used in watering the Tulsi plant in my garden," she adds.
Sunil Sahu, a resident of Maple heights in Sushant Lok I, says, "I often miss eating traditional Maharashtrian sweets and speaking Marathi here. However, Ganeshutsav brings our community together. This festival brings peace, prosperity and purifies our thoughts."
