Detail of an old Ganesh sculpture, Karnataka

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Hail the Hindu God of wisdom. Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival observed for 10 days to honour the birth of Lord Ganesha. Ganesha is an elephant-headed deity who symbolises prosperity, removes obstacles and brings wisdom and new beginnings. During the festival, people place Ganesha idols on elevated platforms in their homes and celebrate by reciting Vedic hymns along with the ceremonial anointing of the Lord Ganesha statue. On the last day of this occasion, the idols are brought to a river for their immersion, alongside a grand display of devotees playing rhythmic drums, singing devotional songs and joyfully dancing.