Anil Azad Pandey, Beijing
The radiance of Indian tradition and Ganesh Chaturthi spread beyond borders as the Beijing Marathi Mitramandal organized a magnificent Ganeshotsav celebration in the Chinese capital over the weekend. Members of the Marathi community and expatriate Indians living in Beijing attended the grand event held at the Indian restaurant ‘Taj Pavilion’.This festival, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, showcased a beautiful blend of faith, culture, and camaraderie, featuring performances by participants ranging from young children to adults.
The festivities began with the traditional arrival of Lord Ganesh (Ganesh Aagman). The atmosphere became spirited as young children delivered a rhythmic performance of Maharashtra’s traditional ‘lezim’ dance to the beats of Dhol-Tasha. The air resonated with thunderous chants of “Ganapati Bappa Morya” as the idol was welcomed with traditional rituals and aarti. Following the aarti, children recited Sanskrit shlokas and the sacred ‘Ganesh Atharvashirsha’ with remarkable clarity and poise. Subsequently, the official logo of the Beijing Marathi Mitramandal was unveiled.
The stage came alive with spectacular cultural performances that showcased the remarkable talent of the community members. Participants ranging from four-year-olds to adults took part with great enthusiasm.
The lineup of events included the story of Ganesha and Kartikeya, Indian classical instrumental and vocal music, shloka recitation by young devotees, a beautiful Kathak dance performance, an entertaining comedy play, and an energetic Bollywood-style dance and song performance dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
Various competitions were organized during the festivities, showcasing the participants’ creativity and devotion. In the Shloka recitation competition, Kayra Phadke won the first prize, followed by Swajas Thakar, and Rufus Wu.
In the Ganesha art competition, Mahira Hingne took first place, Kayra Phadke second, and Shaurya Bajoria third in the younger children’s group. Meanwhile, in the group for children over eight years of age, Anayra Hingne, Viransh Jain, and Naira Sharma secured the first, second, and third positions, respectively.
In the Rangoli competition, Srishti Chordiya got the first place, Deepika Kakkar second, and Ayushi Sungdhi third. Finally, in the Prasad preparation competition, Naira Sharma secured first place, Viransh Jain second, and Charu Arora third.
Moreover, volunteers from the Beijing Marathi Mitra Mandal were honored with ‘Special Recognition Awards’; recipients included Meharnosh Pastakia, head of the popular Indian restaurant The Taj Pavilion,along with Mahesh Phadke, Namita Phadke, and Srishti Chordia.
Following the cultural programs, attendees enjoyed traditional Maharashtrian cuisine (Mahaprasad), creating an atmosphere of unity and joy among the Indian community abroad.
The festivities concluded with the Uttar Puja (final ritual) and the Visarjan (immersion ceremony), where devotees bid an emotional farewell to Lord Ganesha amidst prayers and chanting. As the idol was immersed, chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya” filled the air—a heartfelt plea for the deity to return soon next year and bestow his blessings upon everyone.
Speaking on the occasion, Ketkee Makarand Thakar, an active member of BMMM said, “Ganeshotsav is not just a festival for us, it is a home away from home. We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm of our children and the participation of our international friends. We also extend our deepest gratitude to every volunteer who contributed behind the scenes. This event would not have been possible without their dedication.”
The Beijing Marathi Mitra Mandal is a community organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Marathi culture, traditions, and values among the Indian diaspora in Beijing. Through various cultural events and festivals, it aims to foster community spirit and cultural exchange.
It is noteworthy that for Indians living in Beijing, Ganeshotsav is not merely an annual event, but a significant affirmation of their cultural identity and a beautiful bridge of friendship on foreign soil.
(Anil Azad Pandey is a senior Journalist based in Beijing.)
Leave a Comment