September 1, 2002: As Ganesha Chaturthi approaches, devotees are encouraged to check out the web site created by the Sanatan Society. A comprehensive “Campaign for awareness of spiritually correct way of celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi” details nine points including the history of Ganesh Chaturthi, the science behind the rituals, interesting facts about Lord Ganesh, and the science behind sculpting murthis. Inspiring pilgrims to worship with intense devotion and faith, the Sanatan Society discourages the often current practices where the festival surrounding Ganesha Chaturthi has turned into a massive social event and an advertising event for some businesses. Loud non-religious music may be played while adults and children ignore the celebration and turn to socializing. In 1894, Lokmanya Tilak started the public celebration of Lord Ganesh by placing an icon of the Lord in Vinchurkar Wada, Maharashtra. A revival in the population was started and the festival took on a highly spiritual significance for many years.
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