BHAWNA ATMARAM 
Unlike previous years, Ganesh Chaturthi is being celebrated a bit differently this time, in the COVID-19 post-confinement context in Mauritius. This colourful and vibrant festival which brings people together honours Lord Ganesh, the Remover of Obstacles. We will need to be resilient, patient and united when faced with the hurdles of an impending threat of a second wave of COVID-19 when borders will be opened and the ecological disaster symbolised by the MV Wakashio bulker which has run aground at Pointe d’Esny. 
At Marathi Cultural Circle Bhawani Mandir in Glen Park, additional sanitary measures such as temperature checks, provision of hand sanitisers and social distancing are being observed during this year’s Ganesh Chaturthi. On the eve of the festival, 108 ghee lamps have been lit in homage of the victims of COVID-19 and to honour the selfless dedication of our valiant frontliners. On Sunday 23 August 2020, the immersion ceremony also known as ‘Visarjan’ will be performed on the premises of the temple itself instead of the popular option of converging to the nearby river with a procession in order to prevent congregations.
Despite the slight changes in this year’s celebrations, the fervour of the devotees remains undeterred. The blessings of Lord Ganesh are more than ever essential to shower auspicious rays on our little island. We pray for those who are going through a rough patch; those who have lost a loved one, those who have found themselves suddenly unemployed and those who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect the population. Our thoughts also go to our country which is reeling from the effects of an oil spill. Mother Earth has been directly hit and by holding each other’s hands, we do have the ability to soothe her sufferings.
Therefore, combining an aura of Shanti (peace) and hopes for a beautiful, bountiful and joyful outlook for the whole world despite the context of COVID-19, let us uplift our spirits, meditate and pray for positive vibes to echo globally. Let us also pray for Mother Nature’s healing in Mauritius following the Wakashio ecological catastrophe.
As one, we do have the power to overcome.
‘Ganpati Bappa Morya!’