Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning of the festive seasons and is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in India. From Maharashtra, to Gujarat to Karnataka, the festival is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped to get rid of obstacles and move forward in life. One of the most important gods of the Hindu religion, no prayer can start without worshipping Lord Ganesha– the youngest child of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. 

During the 10-day festival dedicated to the god, the ‘Chaturthi’, or the day when the puja begins, is considered the most important one. It is believed that during this period, Ganesha descends upon earth to be among his worshippers. 

This is when Ganesh Chaturthi, the most important day of the festival, will be celebrated in 2020:

Date: August 22, Saturday

Madhyahna (afternoon) Ganesha puja muhurat: August 22, 11:06 am to 1:42 pm

Chaturthi Tithi begins at: August 21, 11:02 pm

Chaturthi Tithi ends at: August 22, 07:57 pm

Visarjan or immersion date: September 1, Tuesday

Ganesh Chaturthi is observed amid huge celebrations in several states, especially in Maharashtra. People, including Bollywood celebrities, in Mumbai indulge in huge festivities during this time. However, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic this year, celebrations are kept low-key, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) putting restrictions on setting up of pandals and other things.