Prague celebrates Lord Ganesha, India’s most beloved elephant-headed god, this weekend, welcoming students to experience this affordable cultural festivity.
This festivity will be held on 14th of September at Cultural House Ládví starting at 16:30, with a cover charge of CZK 60. You can attend the vibrant celebrations, try local Indian delicacies, and seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for this upcoming school year.
“I am excited to try new Indian food and experience an exciting new festival, something I don’t have in my culture,” said an AAU student attending the festival.
For around ten days, specifically odd days (like 3, 5, 7, 11), people in India fill the streets with processions, colorful decorations, and festive music. Each Family chooses an idol to worship during the festival.
Some idols in public spaces are monumental, standing over 70 feet tall, attracting millions. Often, these idols are constructed of various eco-friendly materials.
The highlight of the festival comes on the final day, Anant Chaturdashi. Idols are immersed in water, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode.
Visarjan, the immersion, is equally joyful and heart-breaking. People gather in massive processions, singing and dancing to the beat of traditional drums, shouting, “Ganapati Bappa Morya,” a chant that means, “Hail Lord Ganesha, come back soon next year.”
A link to purchase tickets can be found here.
For more information feel free to contact shristi.ohri@aauni.edu or check the Indian community’s Facebook account.
