Bappa’s idol – check

Decorations – check

Excitement levels – super check!

As we prepare for tomorrow, Nashik Dhol is already playing in my head. We are ready to invoke all things auspicious! There is something about performing rituals, no matter what religion you follow. And when you cultivate a culture over years, it becomes a part of your existence. A natural thrill takes over people during this part of the year in India. All festivities begin. People adhere to strict rules around the kind of food they consume. And most people, stick to a vegetarian diet during festive periods, irrespective of their dietary preferences otherwise.

It is a time to embrace silks and satins, let the incense create its magic and the aroma of traditional dishes cook up an appetite for your growling tummy. I spent my entire childhood visiting various Ganesh idols in the vicinity and going to people’s homes for darshan. Never once did I know that some day, the dear Lord would choose to visit my home annually.

As we get ready to celebrate over the next five days, I am ready to be at my youngest best – ready to do chores with the same enthusiasm from decades ago, ready to meet people with the same zest and ready to cook all I can with the same love.

Until tomorrow morning, Ganpati Bappa Morya!