Lord Ganesh, the patron deity is the God of wisdom. Come August, preparations to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi – the auspicious day when Lord Ganesh was born – begin with great enthusiasm all over the state. In Mumbai, the preparations would be made at least one to two months before the start of the festival. No matter where you turn, you can catch a glimpse of Ganesh, as huge images of him are put up almost everywhere.
The 11-day festival begins with the installation of beautifully sculpted Ganesha idols in homes and mandaps (large tents), colourfully decorated, depicting religious themes or current events. The Ganesh idols are worshipped with families and friends. Many cultural events are organised and people participate in them with keen interest. For the next ten days, the elephant-headed god is worshipped to earn prosperity and goodwill. During these days Mumbai is transformed into one giant carnival. Homes are artistically decorated, kitchens are stocked with an assortment of Marathi sweetmeats and friends and relatives visit each other. After ten exciting days comes the time to bid farewell to the beloved God by immersing the elephant god in the nearest water marks.

This weekend I was hanging around the market and soaking up how the city is geting ready to welcome the Elephant God.

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The Ganesha idols are the biggest element of the festival. One can find Ganesh in differennt moods and postures. The price range starts from 101/- to as high as 50,000/- and more.

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Temprory pooja house made out of thermocol is readily avalible to house Ganesha in your home. These pooja ghars (as it is called) are cut out from thermocol and given various designs and painted with bright eye catching colors, almost giving the illution of a well lit/ decorated minature temple in your home.

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Florists sell fresh garlands of various designs and flowers to adorn the God. This is one of the peak time for florist in the city.

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Fresh flowers and fruits for the lord.