Ganpati

It's times like Ganpati when I realize that India is a truly special place. The Hindu festival is celebrated with particular enthusiasm because Ganesh is popular god here in Mumbai. We awoke ten days ago at midnight to the crash of a marching band outside our window. In the morning we were told that it was our very rich neighbor bringing in his Ganpati (giant statue of the elephant god Ganesh specially made for the holiday). The Ganpati will stay in

the home of Hindu families for 5, 7 or 10 days until the family parades the idol to the sea with lots of throwing of red dust and beating of drums to immerse it and leave it for the waves to wash away. While the statue is in the home, Hindus truly believe the god is there in their house and someone must sit with it contantly. During the time Ganesh is visiting, presents are exchanged, gifts are offered to the Ganpati and treats called modak are consumed.

This is Lucienne with her blessing after making an offering to our community Ganpati