PUNE: While the entire state of Maharashtra is under the festive fever, a successful Guinness World Records attempt of ‘ Most People Performing Diya Rotations Simultaneously’ has been made in the city of Pune, making this Ganesh Festival a truly memorable one. This attempt has broken the previous Guinness World Record of Uttar Pradesh Government, Sarayu Aarti Samiti, Ayodhya, created on the banks of the Sarayu River during the last Diwali festival.

This attempt was led by the city-based Dhole Patil Education Society’s Chairman, Shri Sagar Ulhas Dhole Patil. 1724 people (all women) performed Lord Ganesh Aarti simultaneously with a diya at the DPES campus in Kharadi, Pune, by following all the stringent Guinness guidelines. Individuals, including Indian and international students, faculty members, and many devotees, participated in this successful world record attempt.

Swapnil Dangrikar, senior adjudicator from Guinness World Records, adjudicated the attempt in person and later handed over the prestigious certificate of creating this New Guinness World Record to Shri Sagar Ulhas Dhole Patil, Chairman, Dhole Patil Education Society, immediately after the successful attempt. Guinness World Records facilitator Milind Verlekar was present on the occasion.

Speaking about this, Shri Sagar Dhole Patil said, “We have a beautiful Ganesh Temple in our campus and Ganesh Festival is celebrated here with a lot of enthusiasm for the past 15 years. Many cultural programs and social activities are organized. This Guinness World Record Attempt was also a part of this legacy.”

He further added, “Currently, we witness a lot of unrest in the world due to wars and natural calamities, resulting in the creation of a negative atmosphere. Lord Ganesh is known to be a ‘Vighna Vinashak’, a destroyer of all adversities. So, we wish to offer prayers to Lord Ganesh for Universal Peace. With this Guinness World Record, we intend to spread this message of peace globally.”

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To celebrate this festival, here are our top picks that capture the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi in every detail. From divine pendants and intricate necklaces that echo age-old craftsmanship, to elegant gold pieces and Ga anesha idol perfect for gifting, each creation is designed to be cherished for generations. Whether you’re seeking the perfect festive accessory, a meaningful gift for loved ones, or a timeless addition to your own treasure chest, these pieces promise to shine as brightly as the blessings of Bappa himself.

Product	Description
	Blessings in Every Detail: Ganesha-Inspired Antique Gold Earrings Celebrate the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi with these intricately crafted antique gold earrings, featuring a beautifully detailed Lord Ganesha motif at the centre. Surrounded by delicate scalloped edges and accented with rich red stones, these earrings exude traditional charm and divine symbolism. The playful golden danglers at the base add a touch of festive movement, making them the perfect accessory for temple visits, festive gatherings, or gifting to a loved one. A piece that blends devotion with design, it’s a timeless addition to your jewellery box.
	Divine Grace: Ganesha Pendant with Garnet Bead Strands This striking necklace celebrates the auspiciousness of Ganesh Chaturthi with a bold Ganesha pendant, intricately designed in antique gold finish. The pendant is framed with delicate detailing and tiny ruby-hued accents, radiating traditional charm. Rich strands of deep red garnet beads add a regal touch, symbolising prosperity and strength. Whether worn with a silk saree for the festive puja or gifted as a token of blessings, this piece is a statement of devotion and elegance.
	Regal Blessings: Ganesha Motif Temple Jhumka A masterpiece of traditional temple jewellery, this gold jhumka features a finely detailed Lord Ganesha seated under a radiant arch, symbolising protection and prosperity. The dome is adorned with intricate leaf patterns, accented by shimmering kundan stones and a vibrant fringe of red beads for a rich festive touch. Perfect for pairing with Kanchipuram silks or festive lehengas, this jhumka captures the grandeur and devotion of Ganesh Chaturthi in every element.
	Temple Majesty: Ganesha Pendant with Lotus Motif Chain This opulent necklace features a divine Lord Ganesha pendant set against a backdrop of deep ruby-like beadwork, framed by intricate gold lotus motifs, a symbol of purity and spiritual awakening. The chain itself is adorned with alternating lotus and bead designs, enhancing its traditional grandeur. At the base, pear-shaped kundan accents with ruby-like detailing add a royal sparkle, while dainty golden drops complete the look. An exquisite
	Auspicious Splendour: Ganesha Pendant with Amethyst-Hued Beads Radiating festive elegance, this necklace pairs a grand antique gold Ganesha pendant with strands of amethyst-hued beads, symbolising devotion, protection, and prosperity. The pendant features exquisite detailing, framed with delicate accents and finished with dainty golden danglers that sway gracefully. Perfect for the grandeur of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, it brings together rich colour, sacred symbolism, and heritage craftsmanship in one striking piece.
	Temple Majesty: Ganesha Pendant with Lotus Motif Chain This opulent necklace features a divine Lord Ganesha pendant set against a backdrop of deep ruby-like beadwork, framed by intricate gold lotus motifs, a symbol of purity and spiritual awakening. The chain itself is adorned with alternating lotus and bead designs, enhancing its traditional grandeur. At the base, pear-shaped kundan accents with ruby like detailing add a royal sparkle, while dainty golden drops complete the look. An exquisite

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The lecture will take place on Saturday, August 23, at 10:00 am at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI), Law College Road.

Organizers said the initiative aims to provide deeper insights into the cultural, spiritual, and artistic significance of Ganesh idols as devotees prepare for the much-awaited festival.

Entry is free of charge, but seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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The initiative reached some of the most vulnerable children at Epiphany School, where students living in dire circumstances received these Joybags. These young souls come from homes where poverty, crime, and alcoholism are the norm, where the struggles of daily wage-earning parents define their lives.

 “These children face unimaginable challenges daily, yet they come to school with hope in their hearts,” said the school owner. “Thanks to the generosity of the donors, they now have a reason to smile during this festive season.”

Additionally, Joybags were distributed at labor camp schools, where the children of construction workers were educated. Despite the transient nature of their parents’ work, these children continue to dream of a brighter future. They move from site to site with each project. As they shift, so does the labor camp school. “Your support lessens the burden on these families, allowing them to focus on their children’s education,” remarked the labor camp chief.

“This initiative is a beautiful blend of tradition and compassion,” said Dimple Somji, founder of With Love, For You NGO. “We’re teaching children that joy multiplies when shared, and the success of this project is measured by the smiles we’ve brought to these families.”

If you wish to get involved and make a difference, With Love NGO is open to curating customized workshops at your chosen location. Reach out to us on Instagram (@withlovengo) and join us in this mission to blend festivity with responsibility.

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PUNE: The Ganeshotsav celebration at Ganga Nebula Society located at Viman Nagar has started with great enthusiasm and this annual festival holds a special place in the hearts of the residents bringing them together in a unique and cherished way. Every year the celebration takes place with utmost enthusiasm with a festive mood prevalent among the residents and an overwhelming sense of community bonding during the Ganeshotsav celebrations.

The celebrations kicked off with a grand procession where the beautifully crafted Lord Ganesha’s idol was paraded through the Society’s streets amidst cheering residents and the beating of traditional drums.  Residents participate in various cultural and religious activities and there are daily aartis performed by members offering prayers and seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha.

Cultural events, dance performances, and other competitions are held and the entire residents, especially little children participate in these activities with great fervor. The skit performed by the tiny tots of the Society signifying the importance of Dhurva’s offering to Lord Ganesha captivated the audience.  Additionally, the Society encourages eco-friendly celebrations, promoting sustainable practices to protect the environment.

The Ganeshotsav celebrations not only strengthen the bonds among its residents but also serve as a beautiful example of a community coming together to celebrate their faith, culture, and commitment to a better society.

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The lamp is known as ‘Deepak’, ‘Jyot’ or ‘Jyoti’ which represents Agni (fire element). ‘Divine Light’ symbolizes abundance, prosperity, wealth, and knowledge. The lighting of an oil lamp is regarded as bowing down to knowledge. The significance of oil lamp lighting is to remove darkness, ignorance, and unhappiness, spreading the Almighty’s grace and divinity by seeking blessings.

India Day celebration at IndiaFest Wisconsin 2023 was graced by State Senator Dan Knodl, State Representative Paul Melotik, Waukesha County Supervisor Jacob LaFontain, Menomonee Falls Village President Jeremy Waltz, and Chair of Republican Party Congressional District 4 Bob Spindell. Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, Governor of Wisconsin Tony Evers, Mayor of Milwaukee Cavalier Johnson, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, US Senator Ron Johnson, State Senator Chris Larson, Consul General of India (Midwest) Somnath Ghosh, Honorary Consul General of Bangladesh Monir Choudhury, Honorary Consul General of Nepal Marvin A. Brustin and Brookfield Mayor Steven Ponto were among the invitees. Both the country’s flags India and the United States were highlighted throughout the celebration, signifying the strong India-US relationship, denoting the largest and oldest democracy in the world with love and respect. 

Several organizations, including Wisdom Infotech, Trayix, Codeworks, Airport Animal Hospital, West Allis Veterinary Clinic, Elite Bar & Grill, Chicago Association of Rajasthanis in America, Sri Gayethri Foods, Pro-life Wisconsin, Planned Parenthood, Asian American Store Owners Association, supported and contributed to India Day celebration at IndiaFest Wisconsin 2023. Vendors included Chic Sari from Green Bay, Kumar Juice Catering Service from Chicago, Labourers of Christ from Michigan, and restaurants and clothing businesses from the broader Milwaukee and Waukesha region. IndiaFest Wisconsin was adorned with Mehendi (henna), threading, sari, kurti shopping, bounce house for children, etc. IndiaFest Wisconsin is blessed to have a few individual donors as well. 

Although the entire setup done by volunteers got ruined by heavy rain and wind the previous night and all things got soaked, we believe perhaps Bhagwan Shiva protected us and blessed the celebration from up above. The entire celebration on Saturday had no drop of rain and everyone had a great time learning about Indian culture. Help from above was noticed.

Officially, August 15th, 2023 was proclaimed as INDIA DAY in Wisconsin by Governor Tony Evers, in Milwaukee County by County Executive David Crowley, and in Waukesha County by County Executive Paul Farrow. Proclamations attached. 

Governor of Wisconsin Tony Evers proclaimed, “In addition to commemorating India’s independence, India Day provides an opportunity for all Wisconsinites to learn about Indian culture and its incredible diversity of language, region, and religion and to strengthen the bonds between the Indian community and others.” 

U.S. Senator Ron Johnson congratulated and stated, “Congratulations on the 11th year of IndiaFest Wisconsin as well as the 77th Independence Day of India! Your dedication and efforts to bring visibility to the Indian Community of Wisconsin are to be commended. Thank you for your commitment to educating the greater Wisconsin community about the rich culture, traditions, and heritage of India.” 

Senator Dan Knodl applauded the efforts of Spindle India, Inc., by stating “I applaud founder Purnima Nath, IndiaFest Wisconsin, and the organization Spindle India, Inc., for their tremendous community service over the past decade in strengthening the India-US relationship and bringing visibility to Indian culture and heritage in Wisconsin.”

Since 2018, Spindle India, Inc., worked tirelessly with the Governor of Wisconsin’s office to obtain a proclamation for India Day in Wisconsin. We thank former governor Scott Walker and current Governor Tony Evers for their support and acknowledgment. 

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley proclaimed, “Milwaukee County recognizes IndiaFest Wisconsin and Spindle India, Inc., for their invaluable contribution of community service to Milwaukee County and joins all Wisconsinites in celebrating and appreciating India Day, Indian Culture, and the Indian community in Milwaukee County.” Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow proclaimed, “acknowledging the contribution of Spindle India, Inc., towards bringing communities together and bringing visibility of Indian community, culture, heritage, history and civilization.” 

Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow proclaimed, “acknowledging the contribution of Spindle India, Inc., towards bringing communities together and bringing visibility of Indian community, culture, heritage, history and civilization”.

Honorary Consul General of Nepal Marvin A. Brustin congratulated Spindle India, Inc. for the celebration of India and bringing communities together. Mr. Brustin stated, “As many of you know, India and Nepal share an open border and many common traditions. In my capacity of Honorary Consul General, I have had the privilege of learning more about both these ancient and remarkable cultures, and hope that the spirit of openness and cooperation we often see between them will be present here in the US as well, allowing us to continue to work together for our respective countries mutual benefit.”

Mayor of Brookfield Steven Ponto applauded the Indian community for placing emphasis on education and also congratulated Spindle India, Inc. for its volunteering initiative.

“Spindle India, Inc., is an ultra-small volunteer-run nonprofit organization run in borrowed garage space with big dreams and goals. Since 2013, Spindle India, Inc., strived hard to bring communities together regardless of the challenges of resources and funding, without cutting any corners. I am grateful to the universe for allowing me to be the custodian of this organization and her vision.”, stated Purnima Nath, Founder of Spindle India, Inc.

IndiaFest Wisconsin showcased ancient Indic culture, heritage, and civilization through demonstrations of traditional clothing, music, dance, food, displays, decor, explanations, and art forms. Many local talents from across the broader Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Racine areas displayed art forms through music and dance. Kathak Dancer Natalia Armacanqui of Kallpa House of Spirit Dances from Madison and students from Milwaukee’s Aparna’s Dance Studio performed traditional, devotional, classical (Bharatnatyam) and contemporary dance forms. Mahijit Virdi, Abhijit Virdi, Manoj Tripathi from greater Milwaukee and Racine counties, and Special guest Dr. Neelima Sharma from India renditioned Bollywood’s old and contemporary music numbers. For the first time, IndiaFest Wisconsin illustrated a unique experience of the Folk Fusion of Indian and South American (Ecuadorian) Instruments by Victor Murillo from Ecuador, Indrajit Banerjee from India on Sitar, an eons-old Indian stringed instrument, and Jason McKinsey on Drums and tabla from Texas. Contemporary Bollywood music was performed by the Bollywood Orchestra of Archana Gauswami and Ajay Patel from India. IndiaFest Wisconsin was enriched by performers from various countries, including India, Nepal, America, Ecuador, and so on. 

IndiaFest Wisconsin showcased the culture, history, and heritage of India’s ancient Indic civilization through art forms, food, music, dance, and decor Ancient Indic culture is promoted through displays of traditional clothing, explanations, and displays of arts. First-time IndiaFest Wisconsin showcased Folk Fusion of Indian and South American (Ecuadorian) Instruments by Victor Murillo, Indrajit Banerjee (Sitar, an eons-old Indian stringed instrument) and Jason McKinsey (Drums and tabla). Contemporary Bollywood music was performed by the Orchestra from India.

A few volunteers were kind enough to lend a few hands during their busy schedule to bring this festival to the land of Wisconsin are MaryJo Thompson, Gerald Knoch, Jenn Dedrick, Shubhra Prasad, Bharat Prasad, Ashita Verma, Jayanti Roy, Arnab Bag and Aparna Bag. These volunteers are not paid for whatever time and energy they dedicate to the cause of promoting Indian culture, heritage, and civilization through IndiaFest. Without the help of their time and energy IndiaFest Wisconsin would not have been possible.

IndiaFest Wisconsin is an opportunity to get a glimpse of the warmth, breadth, and depth of India, launched by Spindle India, Inc., a nonprofit organization, founded by Purnima Nath. IndiaFest Wisconsin is an inclusive platform that transcends religion, region, language, culture, community, borders, and political bias to promote true diversity, equality, and the value of inclusion and coexistence, which is a fundamental principle of the ancient Hindu culture of India (Bharat = Hindustan).

Founder and Chairwoman of Spindle India, Inc., Ms. Purnima Nath, who serves as volunteer President and produces IndiaFest Wisconsin to promote Indian culture and heritage says, “In America, people do not know much about Indian culture beyond a few popular food items such as curry, samosa, or naan. We are more than that. Inventions, discoveries, ideologies, acceptance, tolerance, oldest-living surviving ancient civilization which has not been accepted by the world yet. Sadly, there are many misconceptions about India, the Indian community, and the ancient Indic civilization in the United States. Through such avenues and platforms, we can break barriers of cultural differences and communicate about the oldest living-surviving Indian civilization through education and learning, and connecting with a broader community that fosters understanding. We hope this opens up the possibility of opening doors to potential wider acceptance of our community and incredible culture.”

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The workshop was conducted under the able guidance of a resident, Malinee Rana, and was supported by the Managing Committee of the Society. Kids were captivated by the creative aspect of molding their own idols and were taught the artistry and patience required in the whole process of making idols of their favorite Lord Ganesha.

Throughout the workshop, discussions revolved around the importance of responsible celebrations and the need for widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices. Children were left with not only eco-friendly idols but also a deeper understanding of the significance of sustainable choices.

The clubhouse reverberated with chants of GANPATI BAPPA MORAYA by all present after the children proudly displayed their creation of an eco-friendly idol of Lord Ganesha. The workshop served as a catalyst for change within our housing societies.

The Ganga Nebula Society’s initiative towards sustainability is commendable, and such efforts should be encouraged and replicated in other societies as well. The workshop was a step towards creating awareness among children and their parents about the importance of eco-friendly practices and responsible celebrations.

News Headline: Ganga Nebula Society Promotes Eco-Friendly Celebrations with Workshop on Making Ganesh Idols for Kids.

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Shadu clay idols dissolve faster than those made of regular clay, making them environment-friendly with a low carbon footprint. At the time of visarjan, the idols can be immersed in a bucket of water at home, returning to their clay form, and can be reused for sculpting.

Parents and children attended the workshop, learning to love Mother Earth as much as they love their own mothers. By making their own Ganpati, the children also reduced harm to the planet by not buying one from the market.

The workshop also emphasized social responsibility, with proceeds being invested in curating joy bags filled with essential food grains for less privileged families. For every idol made, one family receives their monthly groceries.

Dimple Somji of With Love NGO said, “The kids not only learned a new skill but were made aware of their social responsibilities in a fun and friendly way.“

To get involved in similar workshops, contact With Love NGO and Neelima Ladkat on their Instagram handle @withlovepune and sprinkle kindness into the world.

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PUNE: Hindu tithis and muhurtas are all based on complex mathematical calculations based on celestial positions as given in Soorya Siddhant. All almanacs (panchangs) up until 1950 were based on the ancient Hindu Soorya Siddhant. In Maharashtra, all almanacs thereafter are based on the ephemeris from NASA.

The ephemeris received from NASA and the calculations based on Soorya Siddhant have a discrepancy in the tithi calculations of certain tithi as is the case with this year’s Ganesh Chaturthi. Gaurav Deshpande has made an appeal to all in Maharashtra to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi on 18th September. Gaurav Deshpande has been publishing an almanac system based on Soorya Siddhant by the name of ‘DharmaShastra Sammat Deshpande Panchang’ for the last 9 years in Maharashtra.

The established almanacs by The Banaras Hindu University, Shrungeri Shankaracharya Peeth, the 150-year-old almanac recognized by Madan Mohan Malviya, Uttaradimath Panchang published from Mantralay (Vaishnav Acharya), and several established almanacs have declared Ganesh Chaturthi on 18th September, then why are only Maharashtra Almanacs claiming the date as 19th September?

Speaking at a press meet Gaurav Deshpande said, “According to Soorya Siddhant, tithi calculation is based on the maximum hours it extends to and the minimum hours it reduces to. A tithi can be reduced by 21 hours 24 minutes or increased to about 26 hours as per the boundary limit for tithis set by our ancient Dharmashashtra. For the ephemeris got from NASA; the tithi can increase up to 27 hours and reduce down to 19 hours 30 minutes. This difference is giving rise to the disparity in the dates of certain festivities in Maharashtra.”

He further added, “All formulae to calculate a tithi have been elaborated in the Soorya Siddhant then why can’t we rectify our error rather than disregard our established scientific astronomical legacy?”

The Soorya-Siddhant is based on ‘Soorya Granth’ a historical epic on astronomy spelling out the advice given by Soorya Dev to May Rakshasa and dates back to Satyug – the age of truth or sincerity.

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