Hundreds of devotees from Auckland's Andhra community gather to celebrate Vinayaka Chavithi, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, on Saturday. Photo: Supplied
Hundreds of devotees from Auckland's Andhra community gathered Saturday at Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall to celebrate Lord Ganesh's birthday.
Known as Vinayaka Chavithi as well as Ganesh Chaturthi, the 10-day festival honours one of Hinduism's most beloved deities, revered as the remover of obstacles and god of prosperity, wisdom and good fortune.
Recognisable by his elephant head, Ganesh is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Organised by the Mana Andhra Telugu Association, Saturday's celebration featured an hour-long special pooja, vibrant cultural performances and a traditional Maha Prasadam for devotees.
"Normally, we start with prayers at home and, once those are done, the community gathers together for a bigger celebration," said Bujje Babu Nelluri, president of the association. "It's a very special day for us."
Recognisable by his elephant head, Ganesh is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Photo: Supplied
He said that Lord Ganesh, also called Vignesh in Andhra Pradesh, held a unique place in people's lives.
"Whenever we start something new - whether it's a business or buying a house - we offer prayers to Lord Vignesh."
Formed in 2020, the Mana Andhra Telugu Association represents New Zealand's Andhra community, many of whom have made Auckland their home.
According to Nelluri, the association now had more than 20,000 members nationwide.
"This year we wanted to mark the occasion in a big way," he said.
"Lord Vignesh is deeply revered in our community and bringing everyone together like this is about strengthening our faith and our cultural bonds."
In Auckland, community groups have also been hosting Ganesh Chathurthi celebrations in recent weeks.
The New Zealand Telangana Central Association convened to celebrate the festival in Sandringham on Wednesday, while the New Zealand Telugu Association hosted an event in Three Kings on the same day.
The Auckland Marathi Association has announced plans to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in Onehunga on 6 September.
