GG News Bureau
Bangkok, 7th Sep: The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Association Thailand successfully hosted the 18th annual Ganesha Mahotsav, the country’s largest celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The grand event, held at Nimibutr Stadium near Bangkok’s MBK Mall, drew thousands of devotees, including members of the Indian expatriate community and Thai locals, showcasing devotion, unity, and cultural integration.
At the center of the festivities was a magnificent 10-foot idol of Lord Ganesha, crafted by artisans from India. The idol captivated the audience with its artistry and spiritual presence, symbolizing wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings.
This year’s celebration featured diverse performances by associations representing various regions of India, highlighting the country’s rich cultural traditions. A historic highlight was the debut of Nadbrahma, a 15-member troupe from Pune, India, known for their electrifying Puneri Dhol performance. Their thunderous beats and vibrant energy enthralled the crowd, bringing a distinctly Maharashtrian flavor to Bangkok.
The spiritual high point of the Mahotsav was the grand Visarjan procession, which passed through Bangkok’s bustling commercial district before concluding at Sila Roek Park on Rama 3 Road. Hundreds of devotees joined the procession, with many boarding a barge for the symbolic immersion of the idol. The emotional farewell echoed with chants of “Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya!” calling for Lord Ganesha’s return next year.
The event was graced by dignitaries including H.H. Swami Vedvyaspriya Maharaj of ISKCON, Shri Susheel Saraff, Vice President of VHP Bharat, Shri Chaitanya Yogi, Director of the Swami Vivekanand Cultural Centre (ICCR), Ms. Atchaka Sribunruang from Thailand’s TCEB, Smt. Vaishali Tushar Urumkar, President of VHP Thailand, and Shri R. Muthu, Counsellor at the Embassy of Bharat to Thailand.
Over the years, the Ganesha Mahotsav has inspired several local celebrations across Thailand, strengthening cultural preservation and community ties. VHP Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural understanding and spiritual harmony through such inclusive events.
