Invitation to World Religions

4

Hinduism

THE SKIES OVER MUMBAI are clearing and the sun is poking through the clouds, shedding rays of light on the throng of worshipers that crowd to behold the Lalbaugcha Raja sculpture of Ganesha, the elephant god. It is the last day of Ganesh Chaturthi, the ten-day festival celebrated across India in honor of Ganesha’s birthday. Most of those gathered had already performed puja , or worship, in their homes this morning, praying before temporarily installed clay idols of the god. There and in the presence of the Lalbaugcha Raja Ganesha sculpture and many other sculptures located around the city, all having been specially prepared for the festival, Ganesha is offered his favorite foods. At this unique temporary shrine, an exquisite idol of the god, created by a master sculptor especially for this year’s festival, is colorfully painted and adorned with flowers. Bhajan and kirtan , sacred devotional songs, are per- formed in the god’s honor. The shrine is alive with the music and the vibrant colors that seem to adorn most everything, including the worshipers. The entire city of Mumbai teems with life during Ganesh Chaturthi, one of India’s most popular celebrations. Neighborhoods like Lalbaugcha sponsor their own production of Ganesha sculptures, competing with each other over the best artistic creation. With his elephant head and human body, Ganesha is one of Hinduism’s most easily recognized deities. As the patron deity of arts and sciences and the god of wisdom, new beginnings, and commerce, he is especially vener- ated by students, writers, travelers, and businessmen. He is worshiped at the PROPERTY OF OXFORD

A Ganesha sculpture is about to be submerged at the seashore in Mumbai on the tenth and final day of Ganesh Chaturthi, a celebration of the elephant god’s birthday.

UNIVERSITY PRESS