Ganeshotsava is celebrated on Bhadrapad shukla Chaturthi all over Maharashta and certain parts of India. This was started by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The main purpose was to open venue for the leaders to spread the message of Independance and social reforms.

Normally people believe that Lord Ganesh was born on this day. But it is not true. Lord Ganesh was born on Magh Shukla Chaturthi (which was on 27th Jan 2012 last year (as per Panchang). Lord Ganesh was born on this day and many people celebrate Ganeshotsava from Magh Shukla Pratipada to Panchami.

Then where from we got this day of Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthy? According to Lokmanya Tilak, during these days - rains would recede, crop are on the verge of harvesting, there is hardly any busy season and hence people can relax-enjoy and have free time to celebrate. This was naturally the time for children to visit their Mama (maternal uncle),

Hence Lord  Ganesh goes to his mama’s place to enjoy the vacation. We bring the idol home. The host serves sweets, offers all good dresses, ornaments and pamper the nephew. There are celebrations, games, dramas, musical programs etc to please the Lord as well as others who have come to meet Him.

That’s why some keep the beloved Ganesha for 1.5 days , some for 5 days or some for ten days. That is - how many days the nephew stays at Mama’s house and goes back, to return back next year.

That’s why we tell him to return back and tell him Agle baras tu jaldi aa. Or “pudhchya varshi lavkar aa”.