Ganesh Utsav means the same thing as Ganesh Chaturthi. The two phrases are alternative names for each other. Ganesh Utsav is an annual festival celebrating the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the elephant headed god of the Hindu religion.
This festival is celebrated with prayers and with the chanting of mantras. The chants and prayers are led by priests. In addition, the statue of Lord Ganesha is submerged in the Ganges. This festival also typically features delicious, specially cooked food and large crowds gathering together to enjoy a celebratory atmosphere.
The meaning of the word Utsav. It is clear that the ‘Ganesh’ part of the phrase ‘Ganesh Utsav’ indicates Lord Ganesha. But, what does the Utsav part mean? Utsav comes from the Sanskrit word Utsava. Utsava means a celebration. This word can also be used in a more general sense to mean pleasure, joy and merriment. So, as a whole, Ganesh Utsav means a merry, enjoyable festival to celebrate Lord Ganesha.
Laura