400 of Korgao family continue ancestral vow of worshipping a single Ganesh idol

Mapusa: Amid the modern trend of nuclear families and individual worship during Ganesh Chaturthi, the Chimanshet family of Bhaidwada in Pernem’s Korgao has successfully been carrying an age-old tradition forward in honour of a vow taken by its ancestors.

More than 400 members of the family come together each year to venerate a single idol of Lord Ganesh during Chaturthi, symbolising their unwavering unity and proving to be a source of pride for the elders.Chovoth celebrations at the Chimanshet home also aim to give younger generations a tangible experience of their ancestors’ lives. Decorations — which are planned at least a month in advance — feature traditional tools used for farming and cooking, and even comprise displays of old-fashioned lighting such as ‘diyas’ and petromax lamps, paying homage to simpler times way before electricity connections and LPG cylinders became the new normal.“This is being displayed so that today’s generation can get an experience of how our ancestors lived, what food they prepared, and what facilities were available at the time. The vow taken by all of the family’s members to come together and worship a single idol of Lord Ganesh remains unbroken,” said the elders of the family.This unique celebration, known as ‘King of Chimanshet’, is fast gaining popularity and attracts 300-400 curious visitors each year. So dedicated is the family to the tradition that those members who live away from the village make it a point to return to the ancestral home during Chaturthi. Celebrations are collectively funded, ensuring that no person bears the financial burden alone.