6th

Bhadrapada

ભાદ્રપદ

Gujarati

Aug 13–Sep 12 Lunar Virgo (♍)

Major Festivals

Ganesh Chaturthi

ગણેશ ચતુર્થી

Aug 22–Sep 1

Birth of Lord Ganesha (remover of obstacles). Celebrated with clay idol installation, modak (sweet dumpling) offerings, and 10-day public processions/immersion ceremonies.

Mahalaya Amavasai

મહાલય અમાવાસ્યે

Early–Mid Sep

New moon marking ancestors' remembrance (Tarpan) and the beginning of Durga Puja season (Devi Paksha).

Auspicious Days for Rituals & Events

✓ Ganesh Chaturthi — extremely auspicious for removing obstacles and starting ventures

✓ Bhadrapada month — auspicious for education and intellectual pursuits

About Bhadrapada

ભાદ્રપદ (Bhadrapada) celebrates Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Ganesh Chaturthi is the focal festival with elaborate clay idol creation, modak offerings, and 10-day public celebrations ending in collective immersion (Ganesh Visarjan). The month (Virgo) emphasizes clarity and intellectual achievement. Post-Ganesh Chaturthi, individuals undertake new ventures and educational initiatives. Diaspora Gujarati communities create beautiful Ganesh idols, organize neighborhood celebrations, and participate in collective immersion ceremonies in rivers and lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2026?

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 falls on August 22, 2026 (Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi). The 10-day festival culminates with Ganesh Visarjan around September 1, 2026.

Why is Ganesha worshipped first in all Hindu rituals?

Ganesha (elephant-headed god) is the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta) and the lord of beginnings. Hindu tradition dictates that before any ritual, puja, or endeavor, Ganesha is invoked to ensure smooth execution and remove hindrances. This practice is universal across all Hindu sects and communities.

How do diaspora Gujaratis celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi?

Diaspora Gujarati families install clay Ganesha idols at home temples or temples. Prepare traditional modak (sweet steamed dumplings—Ganesha's favorite) and coconut-jaggery sweets. Organize community processions and collective immersion ceremonies in rivers/lakes. Many participate in virtual celebrations with family in Gujarat, sharing photo updates and prayers via video calls and social media.

View Bhadrapada in Other Languages

Tamil Telugu Hindi Kannada Rajasthani