Indian festival returns to Nicosia
The annual celebrations of the auspicious Hindu festival, Ganesha Chaturthi, are back this September as the Indian community of Cyprus organises a big cultural evening. The festival is a 10-day celebration in India which marks the birth of the elephant-headed Lord Ganesha, known as the God of wealth, sciences, knowledge, wisdom and prosperity. In Cyprus, one evening of music, dance and tradition will be held in Nicosia, bringing an authentic taste of Indian culture. The 5th edition of Ganeshotsav is coming up next week.
Indians across the world take part in this festival and celebrations typically begin with the installation of huge elaborately crafted idols of Ganesha in homes and podiums. Across the 10 days of the festival, singing, dancing, fireworks and parades take place to workshop the lord. Festivities end with the idols carried to local rivers in huge processions accompanied by drumbeats, devotional singing and dancing. The idols are immersed, a ritual symbolising Ganesha’s homeward journey to Mount Kailash – the abode of his parents Shiva and Parvati.
In Nicosia, the festival will take the form of a one-night celebration with a packed cultural agenda. Singing, group dances, traditional costumes, speeches and more are to take place on September 28 at Dali Amphitheatre, organised once again by Sanskriti Cyprus. This year, the event happens in association with Indian High Commissioner Mr Manish.
“The last four years have been nothing short of magical,” says Sanskriti Cyprus, “and we look forward to you joining us in making this year’s celebrations even bigger and better. Come join us in welcoming Lord Ganesha to Cyprus on Saturday, September 28.”
Ganeshotsav 2024
Indian event celebrating Lord Ganesha with performances. September 28. Dali Amphitheatre, Nicosia. 7pm. https://www.sanskriticyprus.com/