Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: The Emotional Story Behind the Iconic Song ‘Bappa Morya Re!’

When we talk about Ganeshotsav, the image that comes to mind is Bappa's charming form, aartis, the sound of drums, steamed modaks, decoration of the pandal, and meetings with friends and relatives. But along with all this, a song that is sure to be heard by everyone is ‘Bappa Morya Re...’. Many feel that Ganeshotsav is incomplete without this song.

This song, which has been cherished in the hearts of enthusiasts for many decades, was written by the people's poet, the late Harendra Jadhav, and was set to music by Madhukar Pathak. The song gained a unique place with the voice of the famous folk singer Pralhad Shinde. Although the song enhances the joy of the festival, there is a tender story hidden behind it. According to literary scholar Somnath Kadam, the song describes the severe drought that struck Maharashtra in 1972. Due to three consecutive years of drought, there was a shortage of food grains in villages. People did not have rice to eat. At that time, the central government imported red wheat from America. Many families had to survive on red wheat instead of rice.

Reflecting this situation, the lines in the song say – “Do not mention rice, made modak of red wheat... Recognize the plight of the whole house, when will the days of happiness come?” Through these lines, the people's woes, the sting of inflation, and the prayer for happy days to Lord Ganesha are expressed. During that time, even making steamed modak for Ganeshotsav had become difficult. Instead of rice, offerings of red wheat modak had to be made to Lord Ganesha. Yet, maintaining their devotion, people continued to serve Lord Ganesha even in those days of crisis.

Even though many decades have passed, the song ‘Bappa Morya Re’ remains just as popular today. This song, which appeals to everyone from children to adults, blends emotional hues into the joy of Ganeshotsav. That's why every year, amidst the beats of drums and the chants of aartis, this song can be heard resonating in every home.