India, Sept. 13 -- The arrival of Ganpati Bappa brings a festive energy into homes as families prepare to welcome Lord Ganesha with prayers, flowers, sweets and traditional rituals. In 2026, Ganesh Chaturthi will be observed on Monday, September 14, marking the beginning of the annual Ganeshotsav.

The main 10-day celebration will conclude with Ganesh Visarjan on Anant Chaturdashi, September 25. Devotees can also choose an earlier immersion according to their family tradition and convenience.

For families planning to install Ganpati at home this year, the preparation involves more than bringing an idol home. Devotees traditionally clean and decorate the installation area, arrange the puja items, select an idol and perform the sthapana du...