Paris: Thousands of people will parade in the 18th district to celebrate the deity Ganesh

Organized by the Ganesh temple in Paris, Sri Manicka Vinayakar Alayam, the Ganesh festival is coming back for a parade in the La Chapelle neighborhood on August 28, 2022, in the 18th arrondissement. Recognized in France in the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, we celebrate the birthday of this elephant-headed god, the son of the deities Parvati and Shiva. Also known as "Little Jaffna," this parade brings together thousands of Hindu devotees every year, usually dressed in colorful traditional clothing. During this festive and religious moment eagerly awaited by the Hindu community, decorated and floral floats will be part of the procession. One of them will house the statue of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, representing wisdom and good fortune. The procession will wind its way through the streets of La Chapelle, accompanied by music, dance, and joyful chants. The Ganesh festival is a vibrant and joyous celebration that allows the Hindu community to come together, express their devotion, and share their rich cultural heritage with the wider public. It is a time of unity, happiness, and spiritual connection. Everyone is welcome to join in the festivities and experience the vibrant colors, lively music, and infectious enthusiasm that characterize this annual event.Ganesh. Standing at about 5 meters tall, he will be pulled by two large fiber ropes, each measuring twenty meters. To make a spectacle, the chariot will be fully covered with red and white fabrics, decorated with numerous garlands, fresh flowers, whole bunches of bananas, coconuts, and areca palm leaves. Flute and drum players, dancers, and dancers carrying the grand peacock feather arch on their shoulders will parade during the procession. Coconuts will also be broken throughout the parade, with the shell symbolizing the illusion of the world, the flesh representing individual Karma, and the water depicting human ego. According to their beliefs, breaking a coconut allows one to offer their heart to Ganesh. The water from hundreds of these coconuts will be spread on the road as Ganesh's chariot passes by.

The procession, which will start a...At 10:30 am, blessed offerings, treats, and refreshing drinks will be distributed at the Temple.

The Ganesh Festival
Temple Sri Manicka Vinayakar Alayam
La Chapelle Neighborhood - 18th arrondissement