Bollywood has been celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi for years, not only as a religious occasion but as a dynamic cultural event. In song and dance, the filmmakers have encapsulated the spirit of Maharashtra’s favorite festival, worshipping Lord Ganesha in memorable sequences that are woven together by devotion, drama, and rhythm. The songs have become an integral part of the festival, repeatedly played in homes, pandals, and street celebrations every year.
Timeless Aartis and Emotional Anthems
Another favorite piece is “Shendoor Lal Chadhayo” from Vaastav (1999), which was sung devoutedly by Ravindra Sathe. With its true-blue Maharashtrian background and a pious tone, the song is now a regular at Ganesh aartis in millions of homes.
Another emotional track is “Ganpati Apne Gaon Chale” from Agneepath (1990), showcasing the visarjan (immersion) of Ganpati idol. The song conveys the bittersweet sentiment of saying goodbye to Bappa dancing to the rhythm of dhol and taasha.
Ajay–Atul’s “Deva Shree Ganesha” from the 2012 Agneepath remake echoes in pandals till date. Sung by Ajay Gogavale, it’s an assertive and devotional anthem that inspires devotees of all ages.
Dance, Devotion, and Drama
Contemporary Bollywood also blends devotion with energetic dance. “Gajanana” from Bajirao Mastani (2015), rendered by Sukhwinder Singh, taps into the visceral power of age-old dhols and Maratha bravery, while “Mourya Re” from Don (2006) introduces Shah Rukh Khan to the street carnival mayhem of Mumbai streets.
Other high-energy performances include “Sadda Dil Vi Tu” from ABCD (2013) and “Hey Ganaraya” from ABCD 2 (2015), with dancers employing their craft to convey piety.
“Suno Ganpati Bappa Morya” from Judwaa 2 (2017), featuring Varun Dhawan, gives a cheerful, youthful edge to Ganpati festivities.
Tradition Meets Cinema
Even in action-oriented or politically sensitive movies such as Sarkar 3 (2017), Amitabh Bachchan’s “Ganpati Aarti” is a moment of pause and sanctity.
Likewise, Tiger Shroff’s “Jai Ganesha” in Ganpath (2023) blends energetic dance with religious passion, representing the changing face of devotion on-screen.
A Sacred Bond Through Song
From the emotional to the electrifying, these songs underline Bollywood’s unique ability to preserve and elevate Ganesh Chaturthi. They reflect not only the religious essence of the festival but also its role in uniting communities through music, dance, and shared tradition.
