Bangkok, Thailand – 16.9.2024 – The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Thailand proudly celebrated Ganesh Utsav, a vibrant festival honoring Lord Ganesha, the deity of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The festivities took place from September 14–15, 2024, at the Nimibutr Arena, Bangkok.
In a first, a parallel celebration was also held in Pattaya, Chonburi, organized by Mr. Deo K. Singh, Vice President of VHP, in collaboration with the Bhartiya Community of Pattaya. The grand event concluded with Visarjan on September 16, 2024, drawing crowds of Indians, Thais, expatriates, and tourists, all enchanted by this showcase of Indian culture and tradition.
Ganesh Utsav, a significant Hindu festival, unites communities in celebration and devotion. This year, VHP Thailand hosted various events, including cultural performances, devotional music, and community service, emphasizing cultural heritage, unity, and goodwill.
Event Highlights:
- Grand Ganesh Idol Installation: A beautifully crafted, eco-friendly Ganesh idol served as the centerpiece of the festivities, drawing admiration from attendees.
- High Profile Representation: The event attracted attendees from the Indian community, local Thais, and expatriates. High-level representatives from the embassies of India, Sri Lanka, and Timor-Leste, alongside officials from Thai government ministries, TCEB, and top Thai businesses, graced the occasion.
- Pattaya Celebration: The Honorable Mayor of Pattaya and other local dignitaries attended the Pattaya celebration, lending their support to the multi-cultural event and requesting its annual recurrence.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional Indian music, classical dances, and bhajans by local artists and a troupe from Kolkata captivated the audience.
- Interactive Workshops: Educational sessions focused on clay modeling of Ganesha and Mandala creation, offering deeper insights into the festival’s cultural and spiritual significance.
- Visarjan Parade: The celebration concluded with an emotional farewell to Lord Ganesha, as devotees paraded a grand chariot through central Bangkok in a spectacular Visarjan procession.
“We are delighted to bring Ganesh Utsav to the heart of our community in Thailand,” said Mrs. Vaishali Tushar Urumkar, President of VHP Thailand. “This festival embodies joy, reflection, and unity. VHP Thailand is committed to showcasing the beauty of Hindu Dharma and traditions through such meaningful events.”
About VHP Thailand:
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Thailand is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Hindu cultural values, fostering community welfare, and encouraging interfaith dialogue. Through various cultural, religious, and educational initiatives, VHP Thailand aims to strengthen community bonds and preserve the rich heritage of Hindu traditions in Thailand.