VASCO
The Mormugao branch of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has petitioned authorities to curb objectionable practices by certain Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav mandals during the Chaturthi festivities.
In a memorandum submitted a letter to the Deputy Collector and South District Magistrate, the VHP expressed concern that some mandals were “tarnishing the essence and sanctity” of Ganesh Chaturthi, which is traditionally celebrated in Goa with devotion and simplicity.
The organisation stated that DJs with loud sound systems often play vulgar songs at high volume during the festivities, creating nuisance in residential areas and undermining the sacredness of the occasion.
VHP members also alleged that alcohol is openly consumed and people are seen dancing in an indecent manner during processions, which, they said, sends out a wrong message and defames the festival.
The petition further pointed out instances of gambling activities being organised in pandals set up for Ganesh pujan, and expressed concern over alcohol consumption inside pandals, which in the past has led to quarrels and crimes.
“Such actions cannot be accepted in the name of religious celebration,” the VHP remarked.
The group also objected to the installation of idols not in line with Puranik and Vedic scriptures.
According to the VHP, distorted shapes, unusual faces and other non-traditional depictions of Lord Ganesha are a mockery of the deity and amount to blasphemy.
Similarly, the organisation condemned the use of Ganesh idols and images for brand promotions, citing examples of idols shown playing football or cricket to advertise products. “Lord Ganesha is our deity, not a brand model,” the VHP stressed.
“These practices must be stopped if we are to preserve the sanctity of Ganesh Chaturthi. We demand strict action against those indulging in such acts, including seizure of music systems and legal cases for hurting Hindu sentiments,” said Sanju Korgaonkar, Prakhand Mantri of the Mormugao VHP.
Echoing similar concerns, VHP member Shyam Nayak said, “We are not opposing celebrations, but they should be devotional and Satvik. Goa has a tradition of Visarjan with Dindi, Bhajans and Abhangs. Activities like gambling, alcohol consumption, and vulgar DJs are against our culture and must be checked.”
The organisation urged the authorities to make it compulsory for mandals to follow traditional ways of pujan and procession, and to act against what it described as “Hinduphobic and blasphemous activities.”
The VHP concluded by making a “humble request” to the administration to protect the holiness of Ganesh Chaturthi and ensure that the festival continues to reflect Goa’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
