IMPACT OF GANESH UTSAV ON MENTAL WELLNESS AMONG GENZ IN NAVI MUMBAI

Mental health concerns among Generation Z have become increasingly prominent due to academic demands, excessive screen exposure, and reduced face-to-face social interaction. In this context, cultural and community- based practices may play a supportive role in enhancing psychological well-being. The present study explores the influence of Ganesh Utsav participation on the mental wellness of Gen Z individuals aged 18–28 years residing in Navi Mumbai. The study adopts a descriptive research design and is based on primary data collected from 60 respondents using a structured questionnaire.

The analysis focuses on key dimensions of mental wellness, including stress reduction, emotional well-being, spiritual calm, and overall psychological health. Statistical techniques such as percentage analysis, Chi-square tests, and correlation analysis were applied using Excel and SPSS to examine associations between participation levels and mental wellness indicators. The results reveal a statistically significant association between active participation in Ganesh Utsav and improved mental wellness among Gen Z. Higher levels of involvement were found to be positively related to emotional well-being and stress reduction. Correlation analysis further indicates strong positive relationships among stress relief, emotional upliftment, spiritual calm, and overall mental wellness.

The findings suggest that Ganesh Utsav serves as an important social and cultural space that encourages community interaction, emotional expression, and temporary relief from digital stress. While participation was found to benefit mental wellness across GenZ, no significant gender-based differences were observed in stress or anxiety reduction. The study concludes that active engagement in Ganesh Utsav contributes positively to the mental and emotional well-being of Gen Z and highlights the relevance of cultural festivals as informal yet meaningful support systems for youth mental health in urban settings.

Keywords: Ganesh Utsav, Mental wellness, Gen Z, Emotional Well-being; Stress Reduction; Cultural Festivals.