On 6th September 2024, Holy Cross International School, Boisar West, celebrated the much-awaited Ganpati Festival with immense joy, enthusiasm, and reverence. The festival, which marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, was celebrated by students, teachers, and staff, fostering a spirit of togetherness, creativity, and devotion.
The celebration began with a special assembly where the significance of the Ganpati Festival was explained. The Principal and teachers spoke about Lord Ganesha’s symbolism—his role as the remover of obstacles and the bringer of prosperity and good fortune. Students were also introduced to the cultural traditions associated with the festival, including the process of welcoming Lord Ganesha into homes and the eco-friendly immersion of idols.
The school was beautifully decorated with colorful rangolis, flowers, and vibrant decorations. A central focus of the decoration was the Ganpati Idol, which was set up in the school’s prayer hall. The idol, adorned with beautiful flowers and lights, became the focal point of the celebration. Students actively participated in creating the rangoli designs and the decorations, which added a festive charm to the entire school.
The highlight of the celebration was the Ganesh Aarti, where students, along with teachers and staff, gathered to sing traditional devotional songs and prayers in honor of Lord Ganesha. The students showed great enthusiasm as they offered flowers and prayers, seeking blessings for wisdom, success, and prosperity. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and positivity, setting the tone for the entire day.
In addition to the religious rituals, a Cultural Program was organized, where students presented performances that included dance, music, and skits based on the story of Lord Ganesha. The students performed traditional dances, dressed in colorful attire, and performed skits that depicted various tales and legends associated with Lord Ganesha’s life. These performances not only entertained but also helped students learn about the rich cultural heritage linked with the festival.
As part of the celebration, the school also organized an eco-friendly initiative. Students were encouraged to make their own small Ganesha idols using clay and natural materials, which would later be immersed in water in an environmentally safe manner. This initiative taught the students the importance of celebrating festivals responsibly and respecting the environment.
The celebration concluded with the distribution of prasad—traditional sweets like modaks and ladoos, which are Lord Ganesha’s favorite offerings. The sweets were shared among the students and staff, symbolizing the sweetness and prosperity that Lord Ganesha brings.
In conclusion, the Ganpati Festival at Holy Cross International School was a memorable event filled with devotion, creativity, and joy. The celebration not only provided students with an opportunity to learn about a major cultural festival but also promoted values of unity, respect for tradition, and environmental consciousness. The school looks forward to celebrating such occasions in the future, continuing to nurture cultural awareness and community spirit among students.
