Ganesh Chaturthi
गणेश चतुर्थी
Birth of Lord Ganesha — remover of obstacles
📖 The Story
Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati. According to the Shiva Purana, Parvati created Ganesha from turmeric paste while Shiva was away, and set him to guard her door. When Shiva returned and Ganesha refused him entry, Shiva beheaded him. Parvati was inconsolable, and Shiva promised to restore Ganesha's life with the head of the first creature found — which was an elephant. Ganesha is the god of wisdom, prosperity, and the remover of obstacles. He is worshipped before any new beginning.
🪔 Puja Vidhi
Install a clay Ganesha murti at home or in the neighbourhood. Offer modak (his favourite sweet), durva grass, and red flowers. Recite Ganesh Atharvashirsha. The murti is immersed in water (visarjan) after 1.5, 5, 7, or 10 days with a procession.
✨ Rituals & Traditions
🌟 Astrological Significance
Worship at the beginning of any important endeavour. Ganesha removes obstacles and grants wisdom.