When Creativity Overshadows Devotion: A Thought on Ganpati Idols

Every year during Ganesh Chaturthi, I look forward to the arrival of Bappa. Streets light up with colors, pandals bloom with energy, and artisans pour their heart into sculpting idols. This year, I noticed something weird, an explosion of creativity in Ganpati idols. From flying poses to Bahubali avatar, from standing figures to experimental expressions, there seems to be a race in making Ganpati “different.”

But it left me wondering, do we really need to reinvent Him?

Ganpati, in his original form, is already the most endearing. His round belly, folded legs, calm expression, and the modak in his hand, this simplicity carries beauty beyond comparison. He is Vighnaharta, the remover of obstacles, and at the same time the cutest deity who feels like family. When he sits on his singhasan or with his legs folded in peace, that is when he feels most present, most divine, most approachable.

Creativity has its place. Art evolves with time, and it is natural for artisans to explore new expressions. Yet, when it comes to God, the essence is not in novelty but in devotion. We welcome Him for just eleven days, in those few days, do we really want to be distracted by how “unique” His idol looks, or do we want to connect with His presence as He truly is?

Maybe it’s time we celebrate Him in the way He has always been: simple, beautiful, and divine in His original avatar.

My recent visit to Pandharpur…

There are some journeys in life that are not measured in kilometres but in years… and in the depths of the heart. My recent visit to the Vitthal temple at Pandharpur was one such journey. After so many years, I finally stood before him — my Vitthal — the divine with his hands on his waist, the eternal posture that silently speaks, “I have been waiting for you.”

Walking through the bustling streets of Pandharpur, I could hear the chants of “Vitthal Vitthal Jai Hari Vitthal” floating in my ears. The place was crowded, yet an unusual calmness surrounded my heart. I had been here before, 30 years ago, but this time was different. This time, I carried with me the weight of time, the changes in life, and the longing that had silently grown over the years. 

When I finally reached the temple and stepped into the Gabhara, the sight of Lord Vitthal standing there with his hands on his waist struck me deeply. It wasn’t just a deity’s posture anymore — it felt like a gesture of patience, love, and quiet strength. I could almost hear him say, “Yes, you took long… but I was here all along, waiting.”

A strange emotion washed over me. Was it guilt that I had made him wait too long? Or was it the realisation that I had only now made an effort to understand him beyond deity? Perhaps both. Because sometimes, it takes years of living, stumbling, and searching to finally recognise the one who has been there for you all along.

The years I had been away, the phases of life that kept me occupied, the excuses I made — none of it seemed to matter. This wait was not one of impatience, but of certainty. As if he knew I would come back, when I was ready.

It made me think — if Vitthal, the Lord of Pandharpur, can wait for his devotees without complaint, without question, then maybe we, too, need to learn the art of waiting for those we love… and for ourselves.

I left the temple with a heart lighter than when I had entered. It wasn’t just a pilgrimage; it was a reunion. A meeting between a devotee and a Lord, who had never once turned away and had always been with us.

As the temple bells echoed behind me, I smiled. Vitthal wasn’t just standing there with hands on his waist — he was holding the years, the love, the faith, and the quiet assurance that whenever and in any phase of life, he will be there. (“तू कधीही ये, मी इथेच आहे… वाट बघत.”)

वाट बघे पंढरीनाथ

किती वर्षांची ही दूर,

किती ऋतू गेले भरपूर,

तरीही उभा तो निश्चल,

हात कमरेवर ठेवून विठ्ठल ॥१॥

मी धडपडत फिरले जगती,

विसरले वाट त्याच्या नगरी,

तरीही तोच प्रेमळ विठोबा,

जो वाट बघे अखंड काळा ॥२॥

आले मी अखेर पंढरी,

घंटानाद गूंजे करी,

हसत म्हणे माझा विठू,

“ये ग, किती थांबवलंस परी!” ॥३॥

The Guiding Light of Tradition: A Tribute to a Mother's Devotion 🙏👩‍🍼

In a rapidly evolving world, tradition connects generations, and for me, this bond is nurtured by my mother's unwavering devotion. Her meticulous performance of rituals and enthusiastic celebration of festivals have enriched our family life and instilled a deep appreciation for our heritage.

From an early age, I watched her prepare for each festival with precision and passion. Her dedication extends to daily practices like lighting the evening lamp, saying prayers before meals, and observing fasts. These simple acts are profound reminders of our roots, connecting us to our ancestors and bringing spirituality into our lives.

My mother's devotion has shaped my understanding of identity and belonging. Her efforts have given me a strong sense of who I am in a multicultural world. Traditions, I've learned, are about honoring our past, finding joy in the present, and creating a legacy for the future.

Though I've sometimes questioned the relevance of these traditions, my mother’s steadfast commitment has shown me they are not a burden but a gift, offering stability and continuity. Her example teaches that maintaining these traditions is worth the effort, as they provide direction and purpose.

Following in her footsteps will not always be easy, but the rituals and customs she has lovingly passed down serve as a guiding light. In honoring these traditions, I honor her, carrying forward her legacy with pride, gratitude, and unwavering dedication.