Ganesh Pooja is a festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the son of the goddess Parvati, consort of Lord Shiva. Ganesha is the initiating god of Hindus who is prayed to first of all in every religious act or ritual.

In Maharashtra Ganesha is better known as Vinayaka or Bappa Morya. Bal Gangadhar Tilak made it a part of India’s freedom struggle.

Huge idols of Lord Ganesha, the elephant headed god are installed in various temples and temporary pandals all over the city. The crowds of devotees come to present offerings and to make worship.

Then there is ‘Govinda Aalaa..’ spectacle. The curd pitchers of clay are hung high several storeys up by strung ropes. Huge amounts of cash are attached to them. Bands of youngster come singing, form human pyramid and try to reach the pot of riches. Whichever group reaches it wins the prize. It is a great show. At the end Ganesha idols are immersed in the sea or rivers.