Ganesh Puja is an essential part of Diwali celebrations. Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is worshipped first to ensure all other rituals proceed smoothly and successfully.
Significance of Ganesh Puja
Why Ganesh Puja First?
Lord Ganesha is known as "Vighnaharta" (remover of obstacles) and "Pratham Pujya" (first to be worshipped). Starting any auspicious work with his blessings ensures success and removes all hurdles.
Essential Items for Ganesh Puja
Puja Items:
- • Ganesh idol or picture
- • Red cloth for altar
- • Diyas and incense sticks
- • Fresh flowers (marigold, rose)
- • Camphor and matchbox
Offerings:
- • Modak (sweet dumplings)
- • Ladoo and barfi
- • Fresh fruits (banana, pomegranate)
- • Coconut
- • Durva grass (21 blades)
Pro Tip
Step-by-Step Ganesh Puja Procedure
📋Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare the Puja Area
Clean and decorate the puja area. Place a red cloth and position the Ganesh idol facing east or north.
Invoke Lord Ganesha
Light incense and diya. Chant 'Om Ganeshaya Namah' to invoke the presence of Lord Ganesha.
Offer Flowers and Prasad
Offer fresh flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Ganesha. Modak is considered his favorite sweet.
Perform Aarti
Light camphor and perform aarti while chanting Ganesh mantras. Offer prayers for success and prosperity.
Important Ganesh Mantras
Main Ganesh Mantras:
Ganesh Gayatri Mantra:
"Om Ekadantaya Vidmahe Vakratundaya Dhimahi Tanno Danti Prachodayat"
Simple Ganesh Mantra:
"Om Ganeshaya Namah"
Ganesh Stotra:
"Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada"
Special Offerings and Their Significance
Modak - The Favorite Sweet
Modak is considered Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet. These sweet dumplings filled with coconut and jaggery symbolize the sweetness of life and the fulfillment of desires.
Durva Grass
Fresh durva grass (21 blades) is offered to Lord Ganesha as it's believed to be very dear to him. It represents prosperity and growth.
Red Hibiscus
Red hibiscus flowers are considered auspicious for Ganesh Puja as they represent the divine energy and are believed to please Lord Ganesha.
Important
Post-Puja Rituals
After completing the puja, keep the diyas burning for some time. Distribute the prasad among family members. It's also customary to keep some modak near the idol overnight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't place the Ganesh idol facing south
- Avoid using broken or wilted flowers
- Don't perform puja during Rahu Kaal
- Never offer tulsi leaves to Lord Ganesha
- Avoid negative thoughts during the ritual