Pudhchya varshi lavkarya

Before the festival, we buy Bappa's idol for a few Rupees, and then we keep that idol in our home for a few days. And during those days that idol became priceless.

Even if someone offers them all of the universe's wealth, a true devotee wouldn't even think about selling it.

But on the last day of the festival, what do devotees do? They immerse that priceless idol in water.

The act of Visarjan(immersion) symbolizes the letting go of material attachments. It reminds us that life and worldly things are not permanent. It helps us in embracing change.

Devotees share an emotional bond with HIM, which is why they cry while bidding adieu to the beloved Bappa. But they neither mourn nor grieve, because it's not a final farewell. Though he stays with us, within us we know he will come back in physical form, that's why we say, 'pudhchya varshi lavkarya (return soon next year)'.

-K Himaanshu Shuklaa..