LAGOS, NIGERIA, October 19, 2013 (The Guardian): Indians hwew recently celebrated the Silver Jubilee of Ganesh Chaturthi, a popular Hindu festival in Lagos. The 10-day celebration was organised by Maharashtra Mandal, Lagos and Hindu Mandir Foundation.
Ganesha’s birthday marks the beginning of 10 days of festivities and devotion for the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival. As one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals observed throughout India, as well as by devotees in all parts of the world, the Ganesh festival holds a special place in the hearts of Indian expatriates and devotees in Lagos.
The first day of the celebrations at the Geeta Mandir, Palm Grove, Ilupeju, Lagos, saw hundreds of Indian in a procession of Lord Ganesh amidst much fanfare, melodious chanting thereby adding color and festivity to the auspicious occasion. In the evening of the same day also, devotees gathered for the aartis (prayers) and attended this splendid festival in large numbers.
Also, the Lagos Maharashtra Mandal brought in cultural artistes from Mumbai who performed at the occasion besides other religious programmes.
Ganesh festival engendered family reunion among friends. Throughout the festival days, there were hordes of devotees from different religions other than Hindus, to worship and pay obeisance to the “most loved God of Wisdom.”
He is worshipped first in prayers and his names are repeated first before any auspicious work begins. Lord Ganesh is also known as the “Remover of Obstacles” and deserves the initial place of honor at almost every festive occasion, be it a wedding, to start a business or a housewarming ceremony.