Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most awaited festivals in the Hindu culture. It celebrates the birth of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s son, Lord Ganesh who was born in the Shukla Paksha of the Bhadrapada month. The festival usually falls in August or September each year. This year Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on August 31, 2022.
About Ganesh Chaturthi:
There are different stories about the birth of Ganesha. One of the myths about his birth is that Goddess Parvati, in Lord Shiva’s absence, created Ganpati by molding sandalwood paste and placed him to guard while she was taking a bath. Owing to his mother’s loyalty, Ganesha had no idea who Lord Shiva was and didn’t even allow him to enter the house. This angered Lord Shiva leading him separated Lord Ganesha’s head from his body. Enraged by this, Parvati turned to Goddess Kali and threatened to destroy the world. Everyone requested Lord Shiva to resolve this.
Lord Shiva ordered his followers to bring the head of a child who was abandoned by his mother. His followers found and presented the head of a baby elephant. Placing the head on the body in a proper manner, Lord Shiva resurrected Ganesha’s body. All the Lords blessed Ganesha. This is why the birth of Lord Ganesha is celebrated.
Rituals:
“Pandals” decorated with flowers are built in homes, temples, and even, public places to welcome the idol while the priests chant a mantra called Prana Pratishtha to bring the deity to life. Then, a ritual called Shhodashopachara is conducted in which the figurine is then blessed in 16 different ways.
Devotees sing, dance, beat drums, and celebrate with fireworks. While some people worship the idol at home some go out to worship Lord Ganesha in pandals. For prasad, Lord Ganesha is offered his favorite Modak, Pooran Poli, and Karanji.
Importance:
Ganesh Chaturthi is a ten-day festival that ends with Anant Chaturdashi and the final day of the festival is known as Ganesh Visarjan Day.
Since people pray to the God of money, science, knowledge, wisdom, and prosperity before any new beginning or good work, the rebirth of Lord Ganesha represents “new beginnings”. Lord Ganesha is given many names such as Gajanana, Vinayaka, and Vindhnaharta.
Mid-day or Madhyahna is believed to be the most appropriate time, to begin with, the festivities since the Lord was said to be born during the day.
Wishing you all a very happy and blessed Ganesh Chaturthi!
