Maharashtra: Diplomats from various countries attend Ganesh Aarti at CM Shinde’s residence

Mumbai (Maharastra) [India], September 12 (ANI): Foreign diplomats of various countries took part in Ganesh Aarti at the official residence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Varsha Bungalow, on Wednesday.

In a post on X, Shinde said, “Ambassadors and foreign affairs officials from various countries around the world visited Varsha Residence today to pay their heartfelt respects to Lord Ganesha and participate in the Aarti ceremony.”

“Present at the event were Member of Parliament Dr Shrikant Shinde, Member of Parliament Milind Deora, former Member of Parliament Rahul Shewale, as well as officials and staff from the Protocol Department,” Shinde added in the post.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said ambassadors from Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, USA, Yemen, South Korea, Chile, China, Mexico, Germany, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Bahrain, and Belarus participated in the Aarti.

“The ambassadors to the following countries were present: Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, USA, Yemen, South Korea, Chile, China, Mexico, Germany, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Bahrain, and Belarus. All these ambassadors were warmly welcomed and honoured with special gifts,” Shinde said in another post on X.

Chief Minister Shinde mentioned that a traditional Maharashtrian feast was organised for the guests.

“A traditional Maharashtrian feast was organised specifically for these guests. The ambassadors from various countries enthusiastically enjoyed the Ganesh Festival and also savoured the steamed modaks, which are Lord Ganesha’s favourite offerings,” Shinde added in the post.

Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival, will continue until Anantha Chaturdashi. This festival is also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayak Chavithi.

During Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles. Devotees across India and abroad celebrate Lord Ganesha’s wisdom and intelligence.

Homes and pandals are adorned with elaborate decorations, and the air is filled with prayers, music, and festive chants. The streets come alive with vibrant processions and traditional rituals as people prepare delicious offerings and visit the beautifully decorated pandals.