24/09/2026
🐘 As Ganesh Chaturthi comes to an end…
This week marks the end of Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals dedicated to Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity associated with wisdom, prosperity, good fortune and the removal of obstacles.
In 2026, Ganesh Chaturthi began on 14 September, with the celebrations culminating in Anant Chaturdashi and Ganesh Visarjan on 25 September.
The festival traditionally begins with devotees welcoming an image or murti of Ganesha into their homes or communities. Prayers, offerings, music, food, and gatherings mark the celebrations, and in many places, large public processions.
Then comes Visarjan — the immersion of the Ganesha image in water.
At first, this might seem like a strange way to finish a celebration: we welcome Ganesha, celebrate him, and then return his image to the water.
But there is profound symbolism here.
The image is created from earthly materials and, after being honoured, is returned to the elements. It can be understood as a reminder of impermanence — that everything we create, possess and become attached to eventually changes and passes away.
We don't get to keep the form.
We carry the meaning with us.
And perhaps that is why Ganesha's symbolism is so interesting, even if you aren't Hindu.
🐘 The elephant head — wisdom, intelligence and the ability to see beyond the immediate problem. Think bigger.
👂 The large ears — listen more and speak less. There is wisdom in really hearing what others are saying.
👀 The small eyes — concentration and one-pointed attention. Stay present with what is actually in front of you.
👄 The small mouth — restraint in speech. Not every thought needs to become words.
🍃 The broken tusk — retain what serves you and release what doesn't. It can remind us that imperfection doesn't prevent us from fulfilling our purpose.
🫶 The large belly — digest life. Take in both the pleasant and unpleasant experiences without allowing either to overwhelm you.
🪢 The rope — drawing us towards our deeper purpose and ultimately towards freedom.
🪓 The axe — cutting through attachment. Letting go of the things we continually grasp at.
🍬 The bowl of sweets — the sweetness that can come through growth, practice and perseverance.
🙏 The blessing hand — reassurance, protection and the courage to move forward.
And there is another beautiful aspect of Ganesha's symbolism.
He is traditionally regarded not only as the remover of obstacles, but sometimes as the one who places obstacles in our path.
Why?
Because an obstacle can become an opportunity to develop strength, patience, wisdom and awareness.
Sometimes the thing standing between us and where we want to go isn't actually outside of us.
It might be fear.
Doubt.
Attachment.
Insecurity.
Or simply an old way of seeing things.
So whether you worship Ganesha, follow Hindu traditions, practise yoga and meditation, or simply appreciate the wisdom contained within these ancient symbols, there is something here that can speak to all of us.
Listen more.
Speak less.
Think deeply.
Focus clearly.
Let go of what no longer serves you.
Digest whatever life brings.
And when an obstacle appears — look carefully at what it might be here to teach you.
And then, like Ganesha's final journey into the water:
Let go.
🐘🙏
Ganesh Chaturthi blessings to all who are celebrating.
