When Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a noted leader of the Indian freedom movement, advocated for Ganesh Chaturthi to be a public celebration in Maharashtra in the 19^th century, the objective was clear – to foster a spirit of community and build national unity.

Over a century later, the festival might have undergone tremendous change, but its ability to bring people together in celebration remains intact.

When this writer witnessed Mumbai’s grand Ganeshotsav celebrations for the first time in 2012, one thing became clear – the city transforms into a devotional wonderland for 10 days, which are not only marked by faith and spirituality, but also a sense of togetherness. The festival has a strange capability to make even those who don’t traditionally celebrate it feel welcome and involved in the festivities.