Event took place on 27th August

Event took place in the La Chapelle street

It was organised by the Sri Manicka Vinayakar Alayam temple

Paris witnesses an annual celebration of the birthday of Lord Ganesha in the La Chapelle street also referred to as “Little Jaffna” which falls under the 10th Arrondissement of Paris. This year the celebration took place on 27th August 2023. 

The Festival of Ganesha (La Fête De Ganesha) was organised by the Sri Manicka Vinayakar Alayam temple. A parade took place around the streets of La Chapelle. A bronze Idol of Ganesha was carried in a chariot. An idol of Lord Muruga was also carried in the procession. 

Nadaswaram, drums and flute are played along the procession with some dance performances along the way. The performers wear a Kavadi. Devotees balance claypots that contain camphor on their head throughout the procession. The chariot is placed at a height of 5 metres. 20-metre-long ropes are used to anchor the chariot. Garlands, flowers, bananas, coconuts and areca leaves are used for purposes of decoration. Musical performances are also integrated as part of the procession. Prasadams, sweets and cool drinks are provided to the participants enroute the procession. 

Prior to the procession, a set of ceremonies were also performed as per tradition. Coconuts are broken en-masse by the participants. The participants included devotees as well as localities intrigued by the proceedings.