Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha! Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha! Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya! Om! Ham! Hanumathe!

Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Sri Ganesha Chaturthi Concept - Glory & Significance of Lord Sri Maha Ganapathi
(The remover of obstacles)

Vakratunda Mahaakaaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam KuruMey Deva SarvaKaaryeshu Sarvadaa Contents Concept; Significance; Glory; Origin & Worship of Lord Sri Maha Ganapathi Incarnations & Forms of Lord Ganesha Ganesha Symbolism Lord Ganesha An Astro Remedy Sri Ganesha Chaturthi (Vinayaka Vrathakalpam Pooja Vidhaana) Customs & Traditions of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi festival Significance of Ekavimshati Pathra Pooja - Usage of Dhoorva (Garike) in Ganesha Pooja Temples of Lord Ganesha Slokas on Lord Ganesha - Sankata Naashana Ganapathi Sthothram Ashta Vinayaka Darshan (Rare photos of Lord Sri Vinayaka)
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Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha! Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha! Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya! Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Concept & significance of Sri Maha Ganapathi

In Hindu religion and philosophy Lord Ganesha has acquired a unique and significant prominence and is considered as the most potent God. Also known as Maha Ganapathi, the elephant headed God is the best known and the most revered God in Hindu religion who is offered prayers first before any other God. He is known as Vinayaka (Vigathanayaka). That means the one who has no master over him. He is totally an independent Deity, has no overlord and is the one who leads. He is popularly known as Ganapathi (Gana + Pathi) the Lord of all the Ganas (divine Groups or spiritual entities). The word Ganapathi also signifies, Ga means Buddhi (intellect), Na means Vignana (wisdom) and Pathi means the Lord. Ganapathi means the one who is the Lord of intellect and wisdom. He is considered as the Lord of learning and patron of letters. He is also referred to by other names like Vighneshwara the Lord of Vignas (obstacles), Gajaanana the one who has the face of an Elephant, Ekadantha the one who has only one tusk etc. Looked upon as a Brahmachari people also believe Siddhi and Buddhi as his consorts but in fact they are his two
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energies, wisdom and success. Lord Ganesha is the bestower of intelligence and discriminative knowledge (Buddhi) and success (Siddhi). He is the one who has shown to the world the significance of parents by taking a circumambulation around his parents Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi that bestowed him the position of Ganaadhipathya, the Lordship over the Ganas. Sri Ganapathi is not only the Lord of learning, intellect and wisdom but also the controller of obstacles and destroyer of miseries of his devotees.

Vedic & Pouranic reference

While several scripts are said to have made reference to Lord Ganesha, specific scripts viz. Sri Ganesha Purana, Mudgala Purana (both Upa Puranas) and Sri Ganesha Atharvaseersham considered as Ganesha Upanishad are exclusively dedicated to Lord Ganapathi. These scripts have eulogized the glory and significance of Lord Sri Ganesha. We find a reference to Lord Ganapathi from the popular Vedic sloka Ganaanaam Twaam Ganapathi Gam Havaamahey that is said to be from Rig-Veda. Lord Sri Ganapathi is said to be an embodiment; personification of Omkaram (Pranava Swaroopam) which is primordial to all the Veda Manthras. There is also a separate Gayathri for Lord Ganesha who also has Sahasranama sthothram. Popular sloka; Suklaambaradharam Vishhnum. that is compulsorily recited before the commencement of any Vedic ritual assumes Lord Ganesha as a form of Lord Vishnu; who is omnipresent. Sankata Naashana Ganapathi Sthothram from Narada Purana said to have been composed by Sage Narada is a very popular prayer dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganapathi is not only worshipped by human beings but also by all the Deities including the Trinal Lords Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara. Lord Vishnu is said to have worshipped Lord Ganesha and obtained Siddhi during the course of killing the demons Madhu and Khaitabha. In the process, He (Lord Vishnu) is said to have performed penance and consecrated a Salagrama idol of Lord Ganesha at a place currently known as Siddhatek near Pune in Maharastra on the banks of holy river Bheema. This place is known as Siddhi Vinayaka Kshethra where, a famous Ashta Vinayaka temple has come up attracting thousands of pilgrims through out the year. Like this, the legends behind these eight temples of Lord Ganesha

(Ashta Vinayaka temples) are standing as testimony to the glory and significance of Lord Maha Ganapathi since yore. Lord Ganesha is also said to have played a significant role behind the origin of famous temple of Lord Shiva at Gokarna (Aatma Linga Kshetra) and that of Lord Sri Ranganatha Swamy at Sri Rangam (Anthya Ranga Kshethra) near Trichy. Though the famous epic Sri Maha Bharatha was composed by Lord Veda Vyasa, it is said that He had invoked the help of Lord Ganesha in scripting the same who did it with one of his tusks. Like this, reference to several legends of Lord Vinayaka are said to be available in other Pouranic scripts like Shiva Purana, Skhanda Purana, Brahma Vaivartha Purana apart from Sri Ganesha Purana and Mudgala Purana.

Origin of Lord Ganapathi

There are several legends attached to the origin of Lord Ganapathi. Though as per the popular legend Lord Ganesha is said to be the creation of Goddess Parvathi Devi (Aadi Shakti) the presence of Lord Ganapathi is felt in all the Yugas since time immemorial. He is known by different names in different Yugas. Lord Ganapathi has taken four different forms in four Yugas. In Krita Yuga he was known as Mahotkata Ganapathi having 10 arms riding on a Lion. In Treta Yuga he was white-coloured, eight-armed and was known as Mayura Ganapathi riding on Peacock. In Dwapara Yuga he was red-coloured, manifested from the clay on the body of Goddess Parvathi riding on a mouse (Mooshika vahana) and chaturbhuja with four arms known as Gajaanana Ganapathi. In Kali Yuga he is known as Dhoomrakethu Ganapathi.

Symbolism of Lord Ganesha

Generally, we find Lord Ganesha depicted as a dwarf and fatty figure with pot belly, elephant head, large ears, small eyes, long nose and mouse as vehicle. From an artistic angle this figure is most enchanting and blissful. But behind this artistic symbolism, hidden is a philosophy, a moral, a management principle and a lesson for every body to learn in life.

Ganesha Worship
Like Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakthi, Lord Ganesha also has a sect of followers in Hindu religion who are known as Ganapathyas who worship Lord Ganapathi as Supreme God. They follow a unique sampradaya
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in the worship of Lord Ganesha. While daily worship of Lord Ganesha is prescribed and prevalent in Hindu philosophy, He is exclusively worshipped on two specific days in the Hindu Lunar calendar. They are, on the fourth day of the dark fortnight (Chaturthi) known as Sankasta Chaturthi that occurs in every lunar month and on the fourth day of the bright fortnight in the lunar month of Bhadrapada Masam that is known as Sri Ganesha Chaturthi. Apart from this, worship of Lord Ganesha in the form of prayer, pooja or homa is done before commencement of any religious functions like Marriage or Gruha Pravesam etc. Worship of Lord Ganesha is prevalent in Hindu religion as a popular astro remedy for various astrological problems. Tuesday is considered as the favourite day for worshiping Lord Ganesha or for performing Ganapathi Homa. Performing Ganapathi Homa with Modaka (a special sweet dish) or with Ashta Dravya is in vogue along with Garike (Dhoorva grass). Ganesha worship is simple with multiple merits. He is fond of Garike (Dhoorva Grass) in his worship. It is said and believed that worship of Lord Ganapathi without Garike is useless. Lord Ganesha is known as Naivedya Priya having penchant for devotees offerings. In Naivedya (offerings) Lord Ganesha is fond of a sweet dish known as Modaka. He is known as Kshipra Ganapathi the one who grants wishes of his devotees very quickly. Swastik mark is considered as the auspicious symbol of Lord Ganesha that we find exhibited in houses, shops and establishments. People also exhibit the image or photo of Subha Drishti Ganapathi in front of their houses or shops and establishments to ward off any evil influences.

Significance of Ganesha Chaturthi

Chaturthi is the fourth day in lunar calendar that occurs twice in a lunar month and Lord Ganesha is fond of this day (Chaturthee Poojana Preethaha) and is the presiding Deity of Chaturthi thithi. But every Chaturthi is not celebrated as Ganesha Chaturthi. It is only the Chaturthi day falling in the bright fortnight of Bhadrapada masam that is observed as Ganesha Chaturthi. Availability of Chaturthi thithi beyond noon is prevailed upon for observance of the festival. Lord Ganesha is specially worshipped on this day by observing a vratha known as Siddhi Vinayaka Vratham. There are several legends behind this Sri Vinayaka Vratham like, the story of Gajasura, Mooshikaasura, Goddess Paarvathi Devi, Lord Subramanya, Chandra the Moon God and the story of Syamanthaka Mani etc. It is believed and said as
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per scripts that, it was on this day the incarnation of Lord Ganesha took place. It was on this day Goddess Parvathi Devi (consort of Lord Shiva) created a doll from the paste on her body while taking bath and offered life to it that got manifested into Sri Vinayaka. It is said that the incarnation of Lord Ganesha took place in the constellation of Hastha. Irrespective of the caste and creed people from all walks of life in Hindu religion worship Lord Ganesha on this day. This day is celebrated as the birth day of Lord Ganesha.

Ganesha Chaturthi & Syamanthakhopaakhyanam

On one of the occasions of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi, Chandra the Moon Gods behavior with Lord Sri Ganesha was unbecoming that led to the annoyance of Goddess Paarvathi Devi who cursed Moon. The impact of the curse was that whoever looks at the Moon will earn ill-repute. This has resulted in whoever looking at the Moon started facing false allegations and ill-repute. Subsequently the curse was relaxed to not looking at the Moon only on the day of Bhaadrapada Sukla Chaturthi that is on the day of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi. Incidentally it so happened that during Dwaapara Yuga, Lord Sri Krishna had to face false allegations of having stolen the precious jewel named Syamanthaka Mani owned by Sathraajit. In order to wipe out the false allegations made against Him, Lord Sri Krishna himself had to personally search for the precious jewel. During the course of his hunt for the jewel Lord Sri Krishna had to fight with Jaambavantha and finally retrieved the jewel from him and handed over the same to Sathrajit. Thus, Lord Sri Krishna got rid of the false allegations made against Him. In the process; He also married Jambavathi Devi and also Sathyabhama Devi. This story of Syamanthaka Mani known as Syamanthakhopaakhyanam is from the 10th canto of Sri Madbhagavatham. It is compulsorily read on the day of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi festival by every one. It is believed that, if any one accidentally looks at the Moon on the day of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi festival will get freed from the curse, if he reads or listens to the story of Syamanthakhopaakhyanam and will also be blessed by Lord Sri Ganesha. Ganesha is a household name among the Hindu families and we find parents naming their children with the names of Lord Ganesha viz. Vinayaka, Ganapathi, Ganesha, etc. Without His invocation no religious or non-religious
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function begins, without His homa/ritual no remedy is complete, without singing or playing His keerthana no music concert begins, without His prayer a child is not inducted into education. One should understand properly the significance of Lord Ganapathi and his form and worship him for a hassle free life and achievement of success in endeavors.

Incarnations & Forms of Lord Ganesha

Incarnations
The stories and legends of Lord Ganesha are referred in many pauranic texts out of which two Puranas viz. Ganesha Purana and Mudgala Purana (Upa Puranas) are totally dedicated to Lord Ganesha. As per these puranas it is said that Lord Ganesha got manifested in several forms out of which eight are considered to be most important referred to as his incarnations. These incarnations which have taken place in different cosmic ages are Vakratunda, Ekadantha, Mahodara, Gajavaktra (Gajaanana), Lambodara, Vikata, Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna. In all these incarnations Lord Ganesha was depicted as having an elephant trunk. In five out of eight incarnations Lord Ganesha is symbolized with Mouse as his vehicle. In the other three incarnations he is said to have used Lion, Peacock, and Serpent as his vehicle (Vahana). In each incarnation a philosophical concept is highlighted as the main theme apart from the other.
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Lord Ganesha is said to have fought in each incarnation with a demon symbolized with a weakness. First incarnation of Vakratunda defeated the demon Matsaraasura and his weakness Matsara (Jealousy/enviousness) when he used Lion as his mount (vehicle) Second incarnation as Ekadantha, defeated the demon Madaasura and his weakness Mada (drunkenness, arrogance) when he used Mouse as his mount. Third incarnation as Mahodara defeated the demon Mohaasura and his weakness Moha (delusion) when he used Mouse as his mount. Fourth incarnation as Gajaanana defeated the demon Lobhaasura and his weakness Lobha (Greed) when he used Mouse as his mount. Fifth incarnation as Lambodara defeated the demon Krodhaasura and his weakness Krodha (anger) when he used Mouse as his mount Sixth incarnation as Vikata (deformed), defeated the demon Kamaasura and his weakness Kama (lust) when he used Peacock as his mount. Seventh incarnation as Vighnaraja (Remover of obstacles), defeated the demon Mamaasura and his weakness Ego (Possessiveness) when he used Serpent as his mount. Eighth incarnation as Dhoomravarna (smoke coloured) Lord Ganesha defeated the demon Ahankaraasura and his weakness pride, attachment, infatuation, aham (ego) when he used Mouse as his mount. Above incarnations indicate the need for human beings to overcome these weaknesses in order to lead a happy and peaceful life and for realization of the ultimate reality. It is said that the incarnations of Lord Ganesha as per Ganesha Purana are Mahotkata with Lion as his mount, Mayuresvara with Peacock as his mount, Gajaanana with Mouse as his mount and Dhoomrakethu with Mouse as his mount. It is believed and said that Lord Ganesha was in existence in all the Yugas.

Thirty-Two (32) Forms of Lord Ganesha

As per Mudgala Purana; it is said that, in addition to the above eight, Lord Ganesha has manifested in 32 different forms as given below worshipped by his devotees. 1. Bala Ganapathi (Child like God), 2. Tharuna Ganapathi (Eight armed, Astabhuja) 3. Bhakti Ganapathi (Chaturbhuja/four armed) 4. Veera Ganapathi (Valiant warrior with shodasabhuja 16 arms) 5. Shakti Ganapathi (Along with his female energy) 6. Dvija Ganapathi (Twice born) 7. Siddhi Ganapathi (the accomplished) 8. Ucchhishta Ganapathi (Six armed) 9. Vighna Ganapathi (Lord of obstacles) 10. Kshipra Ganapathi (Quick in action) 11. Heramba Ganapathi (Five faced/ten armed) 12. Lakshmi Ganapathi (Varada Mudra) 13. Maha Ganapathi (The Great) 14. Vijaya Ganapathi (Victorious) 15. Nritya Ganapathi (Dancing) 16. Urdhva Ganapathi (Left hand elevated) 17. Ekaakshara Ganapathi (Gam - Ganapathi) 18. Varada Ganapathi (Boon giver) 19. Tryakshara Ganapathi (Lord of three letters AUM) 20. Kshipra Prasada Ganapathi (Quick rewarder) 21. Haridra Ganapathi (Yellow coloured) 22. Ekadantha Ganapathi (Single Tusk) 23. Srushti Ganapathi (Manifestation) 24. Uddanda Ganapathi (Enforcer of Dharma) 25. Rinamochana Ganapathi (Liberator of bondage) 26. Dhundi Ganapathi (Sought after) 27. Dvimukha Ganapathi (Two divergent faces) 28. Trimukha Ganapathi (Three faced) 29. Simha Ganapathi (Mounted on Lion) 30. Yoga Ganapathi (Meditating) 31. Durga Ganapathi (Invincible) 32. Sankatahara Ganapathi (Dispeller of sorrow)
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It is believed and said that Lord Ganesha has also manifested in his 33 rd form as Subha Drishti Ganapathi (destroyer of evil forces) depicted in a rare form. We find people exhibiting a picture/image of Subha Drishti Ganapathi in front of their houses/offices to ward off the evil influences.

Sri Ganesha - Symbolism

Generally, we find Lord Ganesha depicted as a dwarf and fatty figure with pot belly, elephant head, large ears, small eyes, long nose, mouse as vehicle. From an artistic angle this figure is most enchanting and blissful. But behind this artistic symbolism, hidden is a philosophy, a moral, a management principle and a lesson for every body to learn in life. One should understand properly the significance of Lord Ganesha and his form and worship him for a hassle free life and achievement of success in endeavors.

Ganesha Symbolism What does it indicates?

Big Head: Simple living and high thinking. It depicts wisdom, knowledge (intelligence), discrimination, clear planning and foresightedness. Big Ears: Listening is an art. A good listener is a good Manager (principle of lend your ear but be discriminative).
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Small mouth: Talk less and work more. Small eyes: Stay focused. Have birds view but not worms view. Be ever alert and conscious of surroundings. Long nose and curved trunk: There is no straight path to success. Be flexible and adaptable. Long nose also indicates the reach. Large Stomach: Ability to digest, Acceptability (accept both good and bad in life). Axe in the hand: Exercise proper controls in the path to success. Mouse: Mouse symbolizes the egoism which unless under control can cause havoc. Egoism is nothing but ignorance (darkness). You ride the ego and dont allow it to over ride you. Always keep desires under check. Mouse also symbolizes that nothing is insignificant in this universe. What is important is one should know how to utilize them effectively. Dont ignore small. The mouse also symbolizes the darkness of night. The mouse can see well in the dark. As Vinayaka's vehicle; mouse signifies an object that leads man from darkness to light. Common sense and Problem solving skills: Using one of his tusks when his quill got broken while scripting Mahabharatha Wisdom: Treating parents as God (Maathru Devo Bhavah Pithru Devo Bhavah) Communication: Communication gap is a distance between two ears. Ganesha was chosen by Lord Veda-Vyaasa to script the great Epic Mahabharatha. Strategic Management and timely decision making: Deciding to take Pradakshina around his parents during his competition with Lord Karthikeya. Adaptability & Opportunities from Constraints: With small feet, pot belly, mouse as vehicle etc... Ganesha never ran away from constraints & obstacles. He adapted well to the circumstances. With his common sense and wisdom converted his constraints into opportunities without any egos and went on to become the Chief Lord of Ganas (Ganapathi). Be a role model: Elephant shows the path in the forest which is full of obstacles and constraints.

Thus, Ganeshas form and worship conveys so many messages including philosophical, health consciousness, environmental protection, adaptability to the nature, management principles. Lord Ganesha is a leader acceptable to all, a leader who is a role model, a path maker and is the one who is there when needed.
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Lord Ganesha is also called as Kshipra Prasada Ganapathi. The one who quickly grant wishes and comes to the rescue of his devotees who sincerely offer him prayers. Ganesha signifies the triumph of wisdom over ignorance and of ego lessens over desires. Ultimate reward is only through sadhana that is Modaka in the hands of Ganesha. Thus, the body of Ganesha is an embodiment of wisdom and a visible representation of the highest reality.

Lord Ganesha An Astro Remedy

Worship of Lord Ganesha has attained lot of significance as an astrological remedy for various mundane problems. Astrologically Lord Ganesha is said to have taken birth in the star constellation of Hastha which falls in the zodiac sign Virgo (Kanya Raasi). Moon is the lord of Hastha star, and Moon signifies the mind (Mano karaka). Virgo (Kanya) signs lord is Mercury (Budha) who is Buddhi Karaka. Thus Lord Ganesha becomes the over seeing Lord for Mind as well as Intelligence. Mercury is also identified with Green colour. We find Lord Ganesha being worshipped with Garike (green grass) which He is very much fond of.

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Virgo sign is the natural sixth house in the zodiac starting from Aries. Sixth house signifies Roga (ill health), Rina (debts), and Shatru (enemies) bhava in the natal chart. It also signifies the Arishadvargas (Negative passions) the six enemies of mankind viz. Kama (lust, craze, desire), Krodha (anger, hatred), Lobha (greed, miserliness, narrow minded), Moha (delusory emotional attachment), Mada or Ahankara (pride, stubborn mindedness), Matsarya (envy, jealousy, show or vanity, and pride). They are the internal enemies which are responsible for all kinds of difficult experiences in our lives. These negative characters prevent mankind from realizing the ultimate reality. Sixth house is also the house of fortune (9 th house) to the Karma Sthana (10th house) from where one draws his luck in his deeds. Lord Ganesha is also referred to as Dhoomravarna and is said to be the overseeing lord of planet Kethu who is the star lord for Aswini, Makha and Moola stars. In astrological parlance Kethu is referred to as Moksha Karaka and 12th house in the Zodiac signifies this aspect. Pisces (Meena Raasi) is the natural 12th house in the zodiac. From Virgo sign 7th aspect will be on 12th house. That means to say that Lord Ganesha will play a major role in influencing a person in the path of self realization and ultimate reality. Lord Ganesha is the remover of all obstacles. Being the Lord of all Ganas, He becomes the patron and lord of all Navagrahas (Planets). He is called as Graha Pati. His worship and prayer helps an individual to get good education, knowledge, intelligence (discriminative) and wisdom. One can definitely improve his physical as well as spiritual health by worshipping Lord Ganesha. As a remover of obstacles and aberrations Lord Ganesha can help an individual to get discharged from debts both financial as well as spiritual (Rinas). As Lord of wisdom and knowledge (discriminative) Ganesha helps in overcoming negative passions (Arishadvargas) and in fighting with internal as well as external enemies of mankind. We find people performing Ganapathi Homam while laying foundation for house construction and also during house warming ceremony. Ganapathi Homa (Gana Homa) performed under the supervision and direction of a learned purohit will be an effective remedy for many types of aberrations
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and obstacles, be it health, marriage, progeny, education or business/career related. Apart from Ganapathi Homa, we find people observing Sankashta Chaturthi Vratha; an austerity; propitiating Lord Ganesha as a remedy for various problems. Thus, Lord Ganesha is said to be an effective remedy and a solution for astrological problems in general and related to Moon, Mercury, Mars and Kethu in particular. Tuesday and Wednesday are said to be prominent days for worshipping Lord Ganesha and for performing related remedies.

Sri Ganesha Chaturthi - Vinayaka Vratha Kalpam

(Pooja Vidhaana & Checklist)

Use eco-friendly idols

Bhaadrapada Sukla Chaturthi (4th day of bright fortnight) that generally occurs in the month of August-September is celebrated as Sri Ganesha Chaturthi festival. On this day people from all walks of life in Hindu religion specially worship Lord Ganesha. Following sequence is generally followed while performing Sri Ganesha Pooja on the day of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi. It

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may vary as per ones sampradaya and changes may be made in sequence, addition or deletion wherever applicable.

Details of schedule are generally available from market in the form of books; cds; cassettes etc. For ready reference to Ganesha Pooja Vidhana, find below useful links; by moving the cursor and pressing the ctrl button; you may be able to download the files.....

Telugu

(general)

Sri Vinaayaka Vratham Courtesy: http://www.dycuk.org Sri Vinaayaka Vratham Courtesy: http://teluguone.com

(Ganesha Chaturthi) - Pooja Vidhaanam

(Ganesha Chaturthi) - Pooja Vidhaanam

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- courtesy: http://telugupoetry.com

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Kannada;Sanskrit;Telugu;Tamil (as per Madhwa sampradaya)

Sri Ganesha Chaturthi - Pooja Courtesy: http://www.sumadhwaseva.com

Vidhaana (Madhwa Sampradaya)

Customs & traditions of Ganesha Chaturthi festival

Before performing pooja to the idol, pooja is performed to Haridra Ganapathi (made from turmeric powder) The idol (prathima) of Ganapathi brought for pooja should preferably be made with natural clay and should not be defective with cracks and should have all the features. Main idol for pooja is installed on an elevated structure (mantapa) or on a wooden platform by drawing a Swastik or Ashtadala Padma symbol with rice. Ekavimshati Pathra pooja with 21 different varieties of plant leaves and Garike (Durva Grass) is unique in Ganesha pooja. On the previous day of Ganesha Chaturthi festival, people perform Swarna Gouri Vratha worshipping Goddess Parvathi Devi the Divine mother of Lord Ganesha. Some times both the festivals fall on the same day. Gowri Devis idol is also kept by the side of Lord Ganesha during the festival. This we observe generally in Maharastra and Karnataka states. Towards offerings (Naivedya) we find people presenting Lord Ganesha with unique sweet dishes viz. Modaka (prepared from wheat flour and jaggery) that generally is fried in oil or steam cooked. Apart from this an item called Undraallu (small sweet balls) is also offered. These items are offered in 21 numbers. Fruits like Wood Apple, Guava fruit, Custard Apple, Pomegranate, Bananas etc. are offered to Lord Ganesha on this day. Generally Tulasi leaves are not used in the worship of Lord Ganesha. But, as an exception it is offered on the day of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi festival. At Sri Ganesha temples across the country special pooja and rituals are held on the day of Sri Ganesha Chaturthi. At some places Ganesha Homa is also performed on this day.

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We find people performing sit-ups with crossed hands holding their ears (known as Gunjillu in Telugu) while performing Namaskara as a mark of obeisance to Lord Ganesha. On the day of Ganesha Chaturthi people avoid looking at the Moon. There is a tradition to perform the festival for nine days known as Ganesha Navarathri and on the 10th day the idol is taken out in big procession and immersed in water. Nowadays we find people performing Sri Ganesha Chaturthi festival on a mass scale by forming local committees and install large sized Ganesha idols in different shapes and forms at different place in the city/town. These idols are generally made up of Plaster of Paris and chemical paints. Ganesha festival is celebrated across the country with big fan fare and religious gaiety more so in the states of Maharastra, Goa, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Cultural programs are arranged on this occasion for ten days with varieties of entertainment. It is a very big festival in cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad. At Hyderabad every year Ganesha idol installed in public place at Khairatabad is considered to be the tallest idol in the country. After performing pooja as prescribed Ganesha nimajjana (immersing the idol in water) is made as far as possible on the same day if not on the next day. We find people performing Ganesha nimajjana in tanks, rivers or sea wherever available. In some families there is a tradition to keep the Ganesha idol for 3/5/7 days before being immersed. Ganesha idols installed in public places are generally immersed on the 10th day. At some places the Ganesha idols are retained till completion of Devi Navarathri (Durga Pooja) and immerse the same along with Devi Durga idols on completion of Navarathri festival. Ganesha Nimajjana is a very big event in cities like Hyderabad, Pune and Mumbai and this will last for more than a day where all the Ganesha idols kept in public places are taken out in procession for immersing in water. It becomes a hectic task for the local administration to control the proceedings and also water in the tanks or rivers becomes polluted having environmental impact.
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Celebrations of Ganesha Chaturthi festival are held not only India but also abroad in countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, and South East Asiatic countries.

Significance of Ekavimshati Pathra Pooja

On the day of Ganesha Chaturthi festival, there is a tradition of worshipping Lord Ganesha with 21 different varieties of leaves known as Ekavimshati Pathra Pooja. Eka-vimshati is a Sanskrit word; meaning 21. What is the significance of this number 21 and the specific variety of leaf (Pathra) used in pooja? Since Vedic times usage of sacred leaves and roots; stems; herbs of sacred trees is in vogue while performing any Homa/Yagna or any sacred ritual. Apart from spiritual significance there is also an element of health consciousness and environmental protection involved in its usage. Even today these leaves/herbs are used in preparing Ayurvedic medicines used for curing several diseases. Apart from; they act as a Divine way of controlling pollution, be it water or air. For example Ganesha Chaturthi festival occurs during monsoon season when the climate is generally not suitable for health. People suffer from various viral infections and water born diseases during this period. There will be lot of water pollution also due to rains and floods during monsoon. After the Ganesha festival, the worshipped Ganesha idols along with the pooja leaves (Pathra) are immersed (Nimajjana) in water (rivers/canals/lakes/sea).
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These leaves when they are thrown in to water it helps in purifying the water with its medicinal properties. When these idols are made up of natural clay (mud/soil) they get dissolved very easily in water and also cleanse the water without causing any pollution. Instead, what is happening today is, we find people using idols made up of Plaster of Paris coated with colours (enamel paints). These idols generally take lot of time to get dissolved and in the process water gets polluted with mixing of chemicals and paints used for the idols. Moreover they are harmful even to the living beings inside the water. Hence, from environmental angle as well as health point of view it is suggested to use only idols made up of natural clay which are eco friendly. Significance of # 21 21 stand for five organs of perception (Pancha Gnaanendriyas) + five organs of action (Pancha Karmendriyas) + Pancha Praana (Five vital airs) + five subtle elements of nature (Pancha Maha-Bhootaas) + the Mind; add up to 21. Now let us try to learn; what these 21 varieties of leaves (Pathra) used in Ganesha festival stands for; and their medicinal value. Maachi-Pathram (Artemisia vulgaris/Imperata Cylindrica) - They have the property of purifying the surrounding. They are used for curing skin diseases (leprosy, leucoderma), nervous diseases, and abdominal related. Bruhathee-Pathram (Solanum indicum/Carisssa Carandass) - Used for asthma, cough, constipation. Also used for women in post natal period Bilva-Pathram (Aegle marmeolus) - Used for Dysentery. It also purifies water. Bilva leaf is very popular in the worship of Lord Shiva. Durva-Pathram (Cyanodon dactylon/Cyanodon Dacry) It is used for Skin diseases, arresting bleeding, anemia. Durva leaf is used in the worship of Lord Ganesha. It is also called as Garike. Dattura-Pathram (Stramonium) - Used for joint pains, abdominal, skin diseases, hair fall. Also used in poisonous bites
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Badari-Pathram (Zizipus Jujube) Used for digestive disorders, wounds and injuries, blood impurities. Also used for maintaining the voice. Badari Kshetra is known after these trees as they are in abundance in Badari. Lord Veda-Vyaasa is also called as Baadarayana named after the forest of Badari trees which is said to be the hermitage of Lord Veda Vyasa. Apamarga-Pathram (Achyranthus Aspera) Used for digestive disorders and also used for poisonous bites. Thulasi-Pathram (Ocimum sanctum) Used for respiratory diseases, skin diseases, purifies air, water and surroundings. This is a common house hold plant which is considered to be very sacred and celestial. The leaves are used in the worship of Lord Vishnu who is very much fond of Thulasi. Chootha-Pathram (Azadarcata indica/ Mangifera Diabetics, for cracked heals, diseases of throat. indica) Used in

Karaveera-Pathram (Thevetia Nerifolium/Nerium indicum) Used for leprosy, wounds and injuries, hair fall, lice. Vishnukrantha-Pathram (Evolvulus Aisinoides/Convolvulus pluricaucis) Used for Nervous related, memory power Daadimi-Pathram (Punica granatum) Used for Dysentery; Vata; Pitta; and Kapha dosha Devdaru-Pathram (Cedrus deodar) Used for skin diseases, wounds and injuries Maruvaka-Pathram (Origanum Valgara/Origanum majoram) Used for Joint pains, skin diseases, heart diseases Sindhudara-Pathram (Vitex nirgundo) Used for Vaata related problems and also used in anti poisonous drugs. Jajee-Pathram (Jasminum grandiflorum/Myristica Fragrams) Used for skin diseases, Mouth related problems and also in indigestion.

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Gandaki-Pathram (Sterculia Urens/Latha Durva) Used for Heart related, Piles, Skin diseases. Shami-Pathram (Prosopis specigera) It is used for respiratory problems. This tree acquired lot of significance from Pancha Pandavas who had kept there weapons on this tree during their Agnathavasa. This tree is also worshipped as a remedy and we find people taking pradakshina around this tree on the day of Vijaya Dasami. Aswattha-Pathram (Ficus religiosa) Its bark is used in preparation of many medicines. It is also used for arresting bleeding. The significance and importance of this tree is so much that it is considered as Trimurthi (Trinity) swaroopa (Trinal Lords, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva). We find people performing Naga Devatha Pratishta under this tree. Arjuna-Pathram (Morinda Tinctoria/Terminelia Arjuna) Used for Joint pains, Vata; Pitta; Kapha related, heart diseases, wounds and septic conditions Arka-Pathram (Calotropis Procera) - It is used in poisonous bites, wounds and injuries, curing skin diseases, leprosy, tumors, joint pains, etc It is said that it has 64 varieties of medicinal usage. It is called as a healing herb. We find usage of this leaf on the day of Ratha Sapthami. It is associated with the worship of Sun God, Lord Hanuman and also Lord Ganesha. While usage of these leaves has proven medicinal value; it is suggested to use them only under Medical advice.

Usage of Duurva (Garike) in Ganesha Pooja

It is said and believed that usage of Garike has attained lot of significance in the worship/pooja of Lord Ganesha who is very much fond of this item. The legend behind this relates to the curse given by Goddess Parvathi (Consort of Lord Shiva) to Nandeeswara (Mount of Lord Shiva). In order to get rid of the effect of curse, Goddess Parvathi had asked Nandeeswara to shed what is most pleasing to him and offer the same to her son Lord Vinayaka which will please him the most. Thus Duurva became most pleasing item to Lord Ganesha. Generally Duurva is offered in pooja in odd number (5/7/21)
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Thus worshiping Lord Ganesha with different varieties of leaves is associated with belief that, these medicinal values will reach the human beings either through air or water apart from providing required sanctity and spirituality.

Temples of Lord Ganesha

Lord Ganesha is one of the best known and most widely worshipped Deities of Hindu Religion. All walks of people worship him regardless of affiliations. We find temples of Lord Ganesha in almost all places across the country. In some places we find an exclusive temple while in some other places we find Lord Ganesha along with other main Deities. In this regard please find below a list of some of the famous temples exclusively dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

Ashta Vinayaka Temples and their locations

Among the temples of Lord Ganesha some of them are said to be more powerful & important. Eight among such important temples which are called as Ashta Vinayaka temples are located in the state of Maharastra within a radius of about 100 km from Pune. Lot of significance is given to these
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temples in Hindu religion. They are all ancient temples where the idols of Lord Ganesha got manifested in different cosmic ages. Each one is an incarnation of Lord Ganesha associated with mythological legends behind them. List of these Ashta Vinayaka Temples are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Mayureshwara Temple, Moregaon Siddhi Vinayaka Temple, Siddhatek Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali Varada Vinayak Temple, Mahad Chintamani Temple, Theur Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri Vignahar Temple, Ozar Maha Ganapathi Temple, Ranjangaon

Apart from the above other important and famous temples of Lord Ganesha are; Siddhi Vinayaka Temple at Mumbai Chintamani Ganesh Temple at Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh Dhundi Ganapathi Temple at Varanasi (Kasi) Uchi Pillaiyar Temple (Rock Fort Temple) at Trichy in Tamil Nadu Karpaga Vinayakar Temple (Near Karaikudi in Tamil Nadu) Saatchinathaswamy Temple (Near Kumbhakonam) Vinayaki Temple (Female form of Lord Ganesha) at Suchindram (Near Kanyakumari) Madhur Ganapathi Temple at Kasargod in Kerala Gokarna Ganapathi Temple at Gokarna (Karnataka State) Idagunji Ganapathi Temple near Murudeshwar (Karnataka state) Anegudda Ganapathi Temple at Kumbhasi (near Kundapura in Karnataka) Sharavu Ganapathi Temple at Mangalore Sasivekalu and Kadalekalu Ganapathi Temples at Hampi (Karnataka) Dodda Ganesha Temple at Bangalore Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple at Kanipakam (Chittoor Dt. Andhra Pradesh) Paathaala Ganapathi Temple at Sri Kalahasthi (Near Tirupathi) Saakshi Ganapathi Temple at Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh) While the above list is not exhaustive, there are several important Ganesha Temples also in the states of Orissa, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, Sikkim and Madhya Pradesh.
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Slokas on Lord Ganesha

Ganaanaam TVA GanapathiGam Havaamahey Kavim KaveenaamUpamasraVastamam JyeshtaRaajam Brahmanaam Brahmanaspatha Aanah shrunvannoothibhih Seeda Saadanam Suklaambaradharam Vishnum SasiVarnam Chathurbhujam PrasannaVadanam Dhyaayet Sarva Vighnopashaanthaye Vakratunda Mahaakaaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam KuruMey Deva SarvaKaaryeshu Sarvada Agajaanana Padmaarkam GajaananaMaharnisham Anekadantham Bhaktaanaam EkadantamUpaasmahey Gajaananam Bhootha Ganaadhi Sevitam Kapitta Jamboophala Saara Bhakshitam Umaasutam Shoka VinaashaKaaranam Namaami Vighneshwara PaadaPankajam Ganesha Shodasa Nama Sthothram Sumukhaschai Ekadanthascha Kapilo Gajakarnakah Lambodarascha Vikato Vighnaraajo Ganaadhipah DhoomaketurGanaadhyakshah Phaalachandro Gajaananah Vakratunda Soorpakarno Heyrambha Skandapoorvajah Shodashaitaani Naamaani Yah PatethSrunuyaadapi Vidyaarambhe Vivahe Cha Praveshey Nirgamey Tatah Sangraamey Sarva Kaaryeshu VighnasTasya Na Jaayathe Ganesha Gayathri Tatpurushaaya Vidmahe Vakratundaaya Dheemahee Thanno Dantih Prachodayaat Ekadantaaya Vidmahe Vakratundaaya Dheemahee Thannoh Dantih Prachodayaat
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Sankata Naashana Ganapathi Sthothram

Ashta Vinayaka Darshan

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(Mayureshwar at Moregaon)

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(Siddhi Vinayak at Siddhatek)

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(Sri Ballaleshwar at Pali)

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(Sri Varada Vinayaka at Mahad)

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(Sri Chintamani at Theur)

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(Sri Girijaatmaj at Lenyadri)

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(Sri Vighneshwar at Ojhar)

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(Sri Maha Ganapathi at Ranjangaon) Sri Krushnaarpanamasthu bhargavasarma (http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com)

Use Ganesha idols made from natural clay which are ecofriendly. Avoid environmental pollution.
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