Agartala (Tripura) [India], August 27 (ANI): On the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, spiritual leader Yogi Rohtas Nath Ji emphasised on Wednesday that the festival has been witnessing growing participation in Tripura and other parts of the Northeast since 2018, with celebrations now comparable to those of Durga Puja.

Speaking to ANI, the Spiritual Leader said, 'Earlier, Durga Puja was celebrated in the North East, but after 2018, people of Tripura and the North East have developed an interest in Ganesh Puja. Just like Durga Puja is celebrated, Ganesh Chaturthi is also being celebrated... I am very happy to see this new change.'

The ten-day festival, starting today, will conclude on Anantha Chaturdashi.

From grand processions to traditional rituals, the celebrations in the country began in full swing, marking the start of this joyful festival across India.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. In a post on X, PM Modi prayed for the well-being and prosperity of all on the auspicious occasion.

'Heartfelt Ganesh Chaturthi wishes to all of you. May this sacred occasion filled with devotion and faith bring auspiciousness to everyone. I pray to Lord Gajanana that He blesses all His devotees with happiness, peace, and excellent health. Ganpati Bappa Morya!,' the Prime Minister wrote.

Notably, President Droupadi Murmu wished Indians living across the world on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Sharing a post on 'X', President Murmu termed Lord Ganesh as a deity of 'wisdom and discernment'.

'Heartiest Ganesh Chaturthi greetings to all Indians residing in the country and abroad! This great festival is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm as the birth anniversary of Lord Shri Ganesh, the deity of wisdom and discernment,' President Murmu wrote on 'X'.

The President further urged the adoption of an environmentally friendly festival and also emphasised the importance of building a strong India.

'I pray to the obstacle-remover Lord Shri Ganesh that he continues to remove all obstacles from the path of individual-building and nation-building, and with his blessings, all countrymen, while adopting an environment-friendly lifestyle, remain dedicated to the construction of a strong India. Ganpati Bappa Morya!,' President Murmu said.

Vinayak Chaturthi, also known as Vinayak Chavithi, is a festival that marks the worship of Lord Ganesha as the god of new beginnings and remover of obstacles. Devotees across India and abroad celebrate his wisdom and intelligence with decorated homes and pandals, prayers, music, and vibrant processions.

For the festivities, people bring Lord Ganesh idols to their homes, observe fasts, prepare mouth-watering delicacies, and visit pandals during the festival. Celebrated across the country, the festival sees lakhs of devotees gathering in temples and mandals to seek blessings from Lord Ganesh. (ANI)