Ganesh Chaturthi is often synonymous with Mumbai’s grandeur and Maharashtra’s street processions. But this year, videos from Karachi made people double-take. A Pakistani vlogger captured scenes of Hindu communities in the city celebrating Ganeshotsav with the same charged energy seen at Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja.
The videos went viral, showing not just rituals but also the cultural vibrancy of Pakistani Hindus, making one thing clear: devotion knows no boundaries.
Karachi’s temples at the heart of the festivities
The city’s Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Ganesh Math, and Swaminarayan Temple became the epicenter of celebrations. The temples lit up with floral decorations, lights, and traditional pandals.
Devotees performed special prayers, abhishek rituals, tableaux, and cultural acts that echoed Indian traditions. From drums and chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” to offerings of modaks and laddus, the atmosphere was steeped in the familiar rhythm of faith.
Tradition and theatre: ‘Dekhaves’ make a comeback
One of the highlights of Karachi’s Ganeshotsav this year was the staging of “Dekhaves,” dramatic performances where participants dressed as Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolising Ganpati’s divine parents.
The festival also featured aagman (arrival) of Bappa marked with music and dance, and visarjan (farewell) processions where devotees danced through the streets before immersion, mirroring the emotion seen across India.
Bollywood beats meet devotion
In one viral moment, young devotees at the Swaminarayan Temple danced with infectious energy to the Bollywood track “Deva Shree Ganesha” from Agneepath.
The video, shared by Pakistani Instagram users @vikash_vada and @aariyadhanwani, quickly spread across social media. Indian viewers cheered the celebration, with many commenting blessings and greetings. A Pakistani Hindu wrote, “I am proud to be a Pakistani Hindu,” while another user simply said, “Allah bless you always.”
More than just a Hindu celebration
What stood out this year was the presence of Muslims joining the festivities. Their participation turned the event into a message of cultural tolerance and brotherhood. Thousands of devotees, Hindus and well-wishers from other communities, came together, reinforcing that festivals are as much about unity as they are about faith.
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