Memory of Ganesh Utsav 2015-16

August 7, 2017 Sudha Mukesh

Dhol.. Dance.. Happy faces.. That is my summary of Ganesh Utsav..

Back in 2015, The very famous "Dollu Kunitha" dance group welcomed Ganpati Bappa to "Prestige Shantiniketan" with their energetic performance.. Followed by Cultural/Folk dance performances of 6 indian states (Maharsthra, Gujrat, Odisha, Karnataka, Punjab and Tamilnadu) by residents.. Fast forward 2016, I still remember the loud chants when I was walking towards the celebration area.. The very incredible "Shivba Pratishtaan" was part of the celebration and making it memorable with their unique rythmic dhol beating..

I've seen it all.. As an audience, as a performer, as a Ganeshotsav Samiti volunteer. Each of these views has given me a whole new perspective - relishing the talents which PSN has, the enjoyment of performing on stage, the satisfaction of organising and contributing to a greater cause. Above all, the joy of connecting with people. The procession on Day 1 is as though 'India begins here' - an arena to witness the diverse dances of India, and also to let go and dance along...the energy of the dancers sets the stage for next few days to come. The evenings are packed with powerful performances, with multifold talents of PSN coming to the fore. Around 8 PM is the Arati, time for us to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings, followed by the distribution of Prasad - a chance to meet and greet. Then comes a time to let go, dance to the tunes of the music - sometimes by an external artist, sometimes by our PSNites. The weekend mornings bring out our competitive spirit, with contests such as Drawing, Fancy dress, Cookery etc. The Visarjan day brings again a procession and dancing along; but we do so with a heavy heart, bidding farewell to the Lord. I feel blessed!

As Narrated by Shikha