Ganesh Chaturthi 2018: Bhayandar resident continues 133-year-old tradition

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Bhayandar : Traditions, they say, are usually given a miss by the future generation. However, the Shah family of Bhayandar definitely stands apart on this front as they take pride in continuing the 133-year-old legacy of celebrating Ganeshutsav started by their ancestors.

Back in 1885, Kabla Bapu Shah, welcomed the loved Elephant-headed God, for the first time at his home located in a quaint village in Bhayandar (west). The decoration was minimal as a majestic collection of toys and clay idols added grandeur giving a colourful company to the small, but cute idol of Lord Ganesha.

Today, 133 years later, nothing from that tradition or even the decoration appears to have changed as the Shah clan gathers in full strength to continue and honour the legacy of celebrating Ganeshutsav started by their ancestors without any hiccups through multiple generations.

“While utmost care is taken to retain and follow the century old rituals, the younger members of the family are told and exhorted by elders about their inheritance and importance of keeping the flame burning,” says Hemant Shah. Alike idols and other arrangements, immersion also takes place in the local village pond in an eco-friendly manner.

“We have grown up watching this ritual. Lord Ganesha has not only kept our generations bonded but the festivities  gives a feeling of togetherness, love, care and affection for each other,” says Jai Shah, late Kabla Bapu Shah’s great-grandson.