'Coolest Ganesh Ji': Indian Scientists Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi With Snow-Made Bappa In Antarctica; Post Visarjan Video - WATCH

Ganesh Chaturthi, the festival honoring the elephant-headed deity Ganesha, was celebrated with a unique twist by a group of Indian scientists stationed at Maitri Station in Antarctica. The team at the Indian research outpost in the world's southernmost continent found a creative way to mark the occasion using snow to craft their own Lord Ganesha idol.

An Instagram video shared by Anirudh Dhar, a member of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), captured the special celebration. The video opened with scenes of Maitri Station before showcasing the scientists using the snow around them to construct a handmade Ganesh idol. The sculpted idol was adorned with a garland and small flowers, giving it a traditional look despite the unusual surroundings.

Following the idol's creation, the scientists gathered to perform the Ganesh Chaturthi rituals inside the station. They participated in the pooja together, filling the air with the familiar chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya.” As part of the festivities, the team also carried out the visarjan ritual, chanting the beloved phrase as they celebrated.

While the visarjan concluded the formal celebrations, the scientists continued the festivities by gathering to enjoy homemade modaks. The video soon gained traction online, with viewers admiring the scientists' dedication to celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi despite their remote location. Many found the snow-made idol and its eventual immersion especially endearing, while others commended the team for keeping the spirit of the festival alive in the heart of Antarctica.