Ganesh Festival, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is a major Hindu festival celebrated to honor the birth of Lord Ganesha, the god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Here are some key reasons why it is celebrated:

1. Honoring Lord Ganesha:

The primary reason for celebrating the Ganesh Festival is to pay tribute to Lord Ganesha. He is believed to remove obstacles, bring good luck, and is revered as the patron of arts, science, and intellect.

2. Symbol of New Beginnings:

Lord Ganesha is often invoked at the start of new ventures, ceremonies, and important undertakings. The festival is a way for people to pray for a smooth beginning and the successful completion of tasks, both personal and professional.

3. Cultural and Community Bonding:

During Ganesh Chaturthi, communities come together to celebrate with processions, rituals, and cultural performances. It fosters a sense of unity and community spirit as people from different walks of life participate in the festivities.

4. Spiritual Significance:

The festival promotes spiritual growth, as devotees engage in prayers, rituals, and the chanting of hymns. It is believed that worshipping Ganesha helps individuals overcome inner obstacles, such as ignorance and ego, leading to personal transformation.

5. Historical and Social Significance:

The public celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi gained prominence during the 19th century, when Bal Gangadhar Tilak, an Indian freedom fighter, popularized the festival as a means to unite people during the British colonial rule. It became a symbol of social and national unity.

6. Ecological and Symbolic Traditions:

The festival is also a time to reflect on nature and life cycles. The tradition of immersing Ganesha idols in water symbolizes the cycle of creation and dissolution, reminding devotees of the impermanence of life.

These reasons, combining religious, cultural, and historical significance, explain why Ganesh Festival is widely celebrated with great devotion and joy.