Festivals
Date
Ganesh Chaturthi
Relevant Timings
Ganesha Puja Muhurat
14 Sep, 11:52 am – 2:23 pm, 14 Sep
Duration - 02 Hours 30 Mins
Time to avoid Moon sighting
14 Sep, 10:56 am – 8:37 pm, 14 Sep
Duration - 09 Hours 41 Mins
About
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, marks the manifestation of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of wisdom, prosperity, and auspicious beginnings. He is the first to be worshipped in any Hindu ritual, as he is the 'Vighnaharta'—the one who removes all hurdles.
Significance:
According to the scriptures, Goddess Parvati created Ganesha to guard her. When Lord Shiva was initially blocked from entering, a celestial sequence of events led to Ganesha receiving an elephant's head and the status of 'Ganapati' (leader of the divine hosts).
Rituals & Puja Vidhi:
1. Prana Pratishtha: The ritual of invoking the life force into the Ganesha idol. 2. Shodashopachara Puja: The Lord is worshipped with sixteen rituals, including offerings of red flowers, sandalwood, and incense. 3. Durva Grass: Offering 21 blades of Durva grass is considered highly auspicious. 4. Modak: Ganesha's favorite sweet, Modak (steamed dumplings), is offered as Naivedya. 5. Aarti: Grand evening aartis are performed with the recitation of 'Ganpati Bappa Morya'. 6. Visarjan: After a period of stay, the idol is immersed in water, symbolizing the Lord's return to Mount Kailash.