Belagavi, nestled between middle-class ethos, and deep-rooted love for the arts, has a rhythm all its own. Sure, we have our little disputes and differences, but when we celebrate, we celebrate with such joy that the rest of the world can only watch in awe. No flashy billboards or celebrity endorsements are needed here—our celebrations come from the heart, and the world sees what it truly means to embrace the festival of life.
None of the festivities that color our lives stand out quite like the Ganesha Utsav. It’s not just a festival; it’s a joyful carnival, bursting with devotion and community spirit. It’s the most eagerly awaited event of the year, when no heart in Belagavi feels low.
The Buzz Begins: Preparation
Even before the official start, preparations for Ganesha Utsav kick off as early as July or August. In places like Shahapur, Vadgaon, and Mahadwar Road, the sight of Ganesh murtis reminds us it’s time to tell our siblings to book their train tickets home. The hum of anticipation grows louder as shops begin to glow in the final week of Shravan. Crowds start filling Kirloskar Road, Ganpat Galli, and Khade Bazar, Pangul Galli, Maruti Galli. It’s as if the city itself begins to hold its breath, waiting for its beloved deity to return.
A Shopper’s Delight
Shopping for Ganesha Utsav is an event in itself. Belagavi’s markets glitter with decorations, clothes, and the essentials for the puja. The sweet shops proudly display colorful modaks, and even non-devotees can’t help but notice the buzz. From pedhas to cashew nut modaks, there’s a treat for every sweet tooth. In Bapat Galli, electronic displays dance as Ganpat Galli showcases its iconic decorations.
Homecoming: The Heartbeat of the Festival
For many, the festival marks a homecoming. Young men and women return from Pune, Bengaluru, Mumbai, or even distant lands, their hearts eager to join the festivities. The buses and trains are packed, and as they step off, they are greeted by a city dressed in its best—the earth itself seems to join in the celebration, draped in green, with blooming flowers and fresh streams adding to the magical atmosphere.
The Sacred Preparation: Cleaning and Decoration
At home, the unmistakable sign of Ganesha’s impending arrival is when moms hand over brooms to everyone, turning even the most carefree into diligent cleaners. No room is spared, and no corner left untouched. The house transforms, but the focus is always on one special corner—the place reserved for the deity. It’s decorated with love, featuring a fresh bed sheet, beautiful thermocol backdrops, and perhaps a muntap for those from the Konkan. The waiting is almost unbearable, like a wedding hall buzzing with guests, eagerly awaiting the bride’s arrival.
Welcoming the Lord: A Family Affair
The big day arrives, and the young and old head to the moortikar (idol maker) to collect their Ganapati. The system here is simple—first come, first serve, with the traditional paat (wooden plank) securing your place in line. When it’s finally your turn, the family’s eldest lifts the paat, carrying Ganesha home, with the children proudly holding Mushakraj (the mouse), an equally important role.
The homecoming procession is alive with excitement—whether by foot, scooter, or car, the chant of “Ganapati Bappa Moraya!” rings through the air. The moment the deity crosses the threshold, the ladies perform the aarti, and the house bursts into life with lights, decorations, and rangoli.
Food, Flowers, and Fun
Ganapati is known to be a foodie, and so the naivedya (offering) is a feast fit for a king. The centerpiece, of course, is the modak. Whether steamed or fried, filled with coconut or jaggery, each type is a testament to the skill of the cook. Other traditional treats—laddoos, karanjis, and panchakhadya—fill the table, as family and friends gather to enjoy.
Flowers, especially red hibiscus, are a must for the festival. Alongside the floral offerings, women celebrate Gauri, playing traditional games like phugadi, a lively dance in circles that brings the joy of sisterhood to the forefront.
The Carnival Spirit: Sarvajanik Utsav
What’s a festival without sharing it with the world? Belagavi’s public Ganesh Utsav is a spectacular display of community spirit. With nearly 400 mantaps last year alone, the entire city becomes a playground of artistry and devotion. Picnics and tours of the mantaps are a tradition—families visit each one, marveling at the unique decorations, and enjoying street snacks like bhel and churmure along the way.
A Grand Goodbye: Visarjan
As the festival draws to a close, the emotional visarjan (immersion) procession fills the streets with joy and sorrow. Ganu is bid farewell in style, with grand processions, lively music, and a city coming together to send their beloved deity home. It’s a bittersweet moment, but the final chant—“Ganapati Bappa Moraya, Pudhcya Varshi Laukar Ya!”—is a promise: we’ll eagerly await his return next year, to once again fill our hearts and homes with joy.
Belagavi’s Ganesh Utsav isn’t just a celebration—it’s a reminder of what it means to come together, to rejoice with loved ones, and to honor traditions passed down through generations. And as each year goes by, the nostalgia only deepens, making the homecoming of Ganapati sweeter than ever.
Happy Ganesha Utsav. Just like across Belagavi, the Utsav is awesome in neighboring Goa’s Dicholi, Sankhlli, Pedne, Mhapsa, Parvari, Mashel, Phonda, and Kankon.