Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Neel on Significance of Ganpati Festivities: "It's Even More Important Than Diwali" | Exclusive

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Content creator and Founder of Marathi Minded Neel speaks to Jayveer Singh exclusively. In this conversation, he opens up about his connection with Bappa and how excited he is to welcome him to his new home. 

Here are a few edited excerpts from this delightful conversation

What makes this Ganpati celebration particularly special for you?

Being from the Konkan region, the Ganesh Utsav holds even more significance than Diwali in our lives. This year, being in a new home and welcoming Bappa here is going to be the most special. 

Can you share a cherished childhood memory with this festival that still makes you smile?

Waiting eagerly for Bappa to arrive, but waiting even more eagerly for the Ukadiche Modak, which is the special treat. When I was young, I would try and sneak a Modak before naivedya and get trashed by mom. It still happens and brings a smile.

How has your connection with Ganpati evolved over the years, and what significance does it hold in your life today?

As kids, we enjoyed the festival a lot because of the food, family gathering, and fun aspects both at home and in society. In college, I was drawn more to the artistic side as well, with sculpting. 

Now, as a content creator, I come across a different aspect of Bappa every year. The Vine videos we used to make around aarti 7 years back, to the Aakhni video last and this year, the festival manages to surprise me with new experiences every year. 

Aur aaj jo bhi hai Bappa ke krupa se hi hai. Even what I have achieved is not without the energy I derive from him. 

What is your favorite aspect of the Ganpati festival, and how do you like to celebrate it?

My most favourite aspect of the festival is the infinite number of various Rupa (Forms) of Bappa I get to witness every year. Also, the festival is all about community, so the get-togethers that happen with friends and family during Ganpati have a different flavour altogether. 

Are there any family traditions or rituals that you follow during Ganpati, and what's the story behind them?

Going for darshan of Ganpati Mandals in Lalbaug has been a family tradition since I was a kid. It's a different vibe that you can't find anywhere or at any other time. Starting with Ganesh Galli and going around Lalbaug till the Sun comes up is a surreal experience. What are the kids now calling it? Yes, Madal Hopping!