Ganapati Visarjan

Today is Ganapati Visarjan Day - a big and famous festival - especially in Maharashtra.

After several days of celebrations and worshipping of Ganapati - the statues of Lord Ganesha are submitted or renounced in the sea or a river - a symbol of the joyous departure of loved ones and even the revered ones.

Usually, non-Hindus and even many Westernized Hindus make fun of this custom or ritual without understanding the deep psychological meaning behind this ceremony. 

It's normal for everyone to feel sad and sorry due to the loss of a precious thing or a loved one.

We all want to preserve and hold on to everything forever.

This festival makes us realize that nothing is permanent or invincible - that everything in nature can be replaced and recycled. 

Even the doctrines or dogmas we hold very dear to our hearts cannot remain true forever. 

This ritual is a trial - a rehearsal to prepare ourselves - that we must be prepared and willing to let go of everything at some point in our lives - even our favorite ones. 

Let's all understand the real meaning of this custom and when such a time comes - be prepared to let go of the things and objects that we may love, admire, and even revere. 

                                  " Rajan Sachdeva "