Source: www.hindustantimes.com
INDIA, August 23, 2009: All preparations have been made. Now, millions of devotees around the globe are ready to celebrate Ganesha Chaturthi today and tomorrow, depending on the time zone.
For a few months, life-like clay models of Lord Ganesha have been made by skilled artisans. Some are exquisitely decorated. Others, simple and sincere, are heartfelt creations of children. All will be immersed in the waters of rivers, celebrating the dissolution of consciousness into Ganesha’s infinite father, Shiva.
In Andhra Pradesh and Bengal, giant murtis are created in a friendly competition to please the Lord of Categories and bring His blessings. This year, in Chennai, a murti of Lord Ganesha made up of 1,250 kg of jaggery and spices was prepared
Sanctified food, prasadam, is also an important part of the festival for this joyful God. Sweets of all kinds are prepared with glee. One of Lord Ganesha’s many names is Lambodara, referring to his big belly, in which, it is mystically said, the whole universe can fit.