“Who ate all the modaks?”
Every Ganesh Chaturthi celebration has that one person asking this question. If Lord Ganesha himself were around, the answer would probably be: “What modaks?”
After all, among the many things that make Lord Ganesha beloved across India, his fondness for sweets is legendary.
Celebrated during the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, usually in August or September, Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha—the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, good fortune, and new beginnings. Before starting a new business, taking an exam, buying a home, or even launching a rocket, millions of Indians first seek the blessings of Ganesha. Known as Vighnaharta (the remover of obstacles), he is often the first deity worshipped in Hindu rituals.
According to mythology, Goddess Parvati created a young boy from sandalwood paste and appointed him as her guard. One day, when Lord Shiva returned home, the boy refused him entry. Enraged, Shiva severed the boy's head. Realizing the mistake, Shiva promised to restore him and instructed his followers to bring the head of the first living being they encountered—an elephant. Thus, Ganesha was reborn and blessed as one of the most revered gods in Hinduism.
And then there is his loyal mouse companion, Mushika, perhaps the most famous mouse in Indian mythology. Imagine being responsible for carrying the cheerful, modak-loving Ganesha around! Together, they have entertained generations through stories, paintings, children's books, and popular comic series such as Amar Chitra Katha. Modern animated films and television shows like Bal Ganesh have transformed Ganesha into a beloved cartoon hero, introducing his adventures to young audiences around the world.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with extraordinary enthusiasm in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, and parts of Tamil Nadu. Cities such as Mumbai and Pune become spectacular showcases of devotion, creativity, and community spirit.
Families bring beautifully decorated clay idols of Ganesha into their homes and welcome him as an honored guest. During the pran pratishtha ceremony, priests invoke divine presence into the idol. Daily rituals include aarti, chanting, flower offerings, lighting lamps, and presenting Ganesha's favorite treats—especially modaks, laddoos, and fruits.
The festival is also a fashion affair. Women wear colorful sarees, lehengas, or salwar suits, while men dress in kurtas, dhotis, or festive ethnic wear. Homes and pandals are decorated with flowers, lights, and vibrant artwork.
Gifts are often exchanged among family and friends, including sweets, dry fruits, plants, home décor, and eco-friendly Ganesha idols. Children eagerly await boxes of modaks while adults exchange festive greetings and blessings.
After one-and-a-half, five, seven, or ten days of celebrations comes the emotional farewell. As devotees chant “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya!” (“Come back soon next year!”), Ganesha's idol is immersed in water, symbolizing the cycle of creation and renewal.
And perhaps that is why India loves Ganesha so much. He is wise yet playful, powerful yet approachable, divine yet relatable. He teaches that obstacles can be overcome, mistakes can be forgiven, and sometimes life's biggest lessons arrive with a smile, a mouse named Mushika, and a plate full of modaks.
