Hindus in Fargo will offer the community a glimpse of their religious tradition as they celebrate Ganeshotsav 2010 on Sunday.
For many Hindus, Ganeshotsav commemorates the birth of the elephant-headed god Lord Ganapati, also known as Ganesh or Ganesha.
"This would be the most important day for Lord Ganesh," says Naina Mahale, who helps raise funds for the event.
Jitendra Vaidya, priest for the Hindu community in the area, says they are celebrating Ganesh's "birthday," so to speak.
The celebration in Fargo includes a public procession in which area Hindus will carry an idol of Ganesh from the Spirit Room on Broadway to the Avalon Events Center at 613 1st Ave. N. in Fargo. The procession begins at 9:45 a.m. and will include traditional Indian dress as well as drum beats, dances and songs.
ADVERTISEMENT
Following the public procession, private activities will be held, including worship, dances and a skit.
Ganeshotsav is a significant holiday for Hindus.
According to ancient Hindu scriptures, the creator of the universe "is represented in many forms with diverse strengths and gifts that are bestowed on this earth and on humanity. Among these, the elephant-headed god, Lord Ganapati, is the most revered and worshipped among all Hindu denominations," states the website for the Fargo Ganeshotsav celebration.
As Mahale says, whenever there is a new endeavor to be undertaken, Ganesh is always invoked.
Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker, Moorhead Mayor Mark Voxland and West Fargo Mayor Rich Mattern will be among the guests at this year's Ganeshotsav festival.
If you go
- What: Ganeshotsav 2010 idol procession
- When: 9:45 a.m. Sunday
- Where: Broadway in downtown Fargo
- Info: For information, visit http://ganeshpooja.fargotsav.org
Readers can reach Forum reporter Shane Mercer at (701) 451-5734
