Pancha Ganapati is a modern Hindu festival observed worldwide from December 21 to December 25. Created in 1985 by Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, an American-born convert to Hinduism, the festival serves as a Hindu alternative to December holidays such as Christmas and Hanukkah. It honors Ganesha, the patron of arts and culture, and emphasizes themes of love and harmony among family, neighbors, and business associates. Each day of the festival is associated with a specific color and meaning, including golden yellow for family harmony and emerald green for joy from the arts. Families typically create a shrine with a statue or picture of Lord Ganesha, decorating it with leaves, flowers, and ornaments, while engaging in sadhana, a special spiritual practice, throughout the five days. Pancha Ganapati symbolizes the mending of past mistakes and the celebration of new beginnings.