Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and Ganeshotsav, is an auspicious Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha. He is known as the god of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune. The people in India are gearing up with pomp and zeal to celebrate the 10-day-long festival. This year, the festival will be observed from September 19 to September 28. As per the beliefs, Lord Ganesha is also known as the Vighnaharta, which means one who removes obstacles. He holds great significance in Hinduism, and almost all the rituals begin with his worship. On this day, people bring the idols of Lord Ganesha to their homes to offer prayers. But have you ever noticed that when a family brings an idol of Lord Ganesha at home, its face is usually covered or the eyes of the idol are covered with a sacred cloth? Do you know the reason? Let us tell you. While speaking to News18, Pudukkottai district priest Sudhakar explained that there is a belief that the face of Ganesha’s idol should be revealed before the Pran Prathishta puja, on the day of Ganesh Chaturthi.

It is said that Pran Prathishta means when the family members invite Ganesha to reside in the idol. After the ritual, the idol is no longer made of soil but is believed to be a living form, who is a guest in the family for 10 days. That is why it is said that only after this puja, Lord Ganesha should see the family.

According to the Drik Panchang, this year, the auspicious time to welcome Ganesha home on Chaturthi Tithi will start at 12:39 pm on September 18, and end at 1:43 pm on September 19. The 10-day Ganesh Utsav festival will conclude on September 28 with Ganpati Visarjan.