The Hindu celebration known as Ganesh Chaturthi lasts for ten days and is dedicate to commemorating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the god of fortunate beginnings. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is the younger son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Ganesha is also known as Ganapati.
It is said that participating in the event removes any obstacles that may exist in human existence and brings about peace and prosperity. There are 108 other titles for Lord Ganesha, his Lord of Arts and Sciences, and the Deva of Knowledge. Lord Ganesha is the god of knowledge. The Holy Books provide guidance on how to do pooja correctly using the many components that are in requirement. It is to believe that each component of the puja has its own unique significance.
Although North India has become more interested in the worship of this god, the festival is predominantly celebrated in several regions of the country, particularly in states such as Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. However, recent years have seen an increase in participation from South India as well. The article focuses on how to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi at home.
Importance of the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
Lord Ganpati is revered for bringing riches, success, and pleasure to those who pay homage to him. He is known by 108 various names, including Vighnaharta, Vinayaka, and Gajanana, amongst others. Ganesh Chaturthi is a joyous event that lasts for ten days and is held between the months of August and September. Its purpose is to honour the birth of Lord Ganesha.
This event, which takes place in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada during Shukla Paksha, occurs after the new moon, also known as Amavasya. The dates of this celebration change on a yearly basis. This celebration of joy, excitement, and enthusiasm includes the performance of several rituals with devotion and commitment, including Aarti, puja, and others. This festival is done all over the globe and has a great deal of importance.
Many devotees turn to prayer and fasting in the hopes of solving their marital issues, getting what they want out of life, and gaining freedom from their sins. Lord Ganesha is revere as the “God of New Beginnings,” another name for him. Worship to him takes place before to the beginning of every new endeavour, including weddings, housewarming celebrations, and other such events. On this day, followers are caution from glancing at the moon since doing so puts them at risk of being wrongly accuse of stealing or committing larceny.
The History of Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi was first celebrated in public for the first time during the reign of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This was done in an effort to bring the people together in opposition to the Mughal rule. The Indian economist, patriot, and independence warrior Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak is responsible for reviving the custom of commemorating this event. He did so in the early 20th century. Tilak encouraged public festivals, known as Ganeshotsava, with the intention of bringing together people of all castes and creating an awareness of the culture.
The history of the world’s most well-known and highly celebrated holiday is rather lovely. Maa Parvati is said to have conjured Lord Ganesha out of the filth that cover her body and breathe life into it so that he may become the younger son of Lord Shankar and the Goddess Parvati. Ganesh is the younger son of Lord Shankar and the Goddess Parvati. This little child was given the responsibility of watching after her bathroom while she had a bath. After some time had passed, Lord Shiva made his way back, and it was at that point that Ganesh prevent him from accessing the location.
Because of this, Lord Shiva became enraged, and as a consequence, he severed the head of the child from its body. As soon as Parvati learned of what had happened, she pleaded with Lord Shankar to restore Ganesh’s life. After a large number of people and Devas were sent to seek for the head. They were unsuccessful and instead decide to purchase an Elephant head to have it attached to the kid’s body. This is how the child was brought back to life.
List of items needed for Ganesh Puja at home as per the rituals:
- Ganesh Ji Murti
- Akshata –Prepared by combining wet turmeric with rice, saffron, and pulp
- Glass
- Uddharini
- Plate
- Mango leaves
- Water
- Two pieces of red cloth
- Lamps and oil or ghee for the lamp and wicks
- Incense sticks
- Camphor
- Plate to light camphor
- Fruits especially bananas
- Flowers
- Saffron
- Turmeric
- Sandalwood paste
- Betel leaves
- Nuts
- Pedestal
- Modakams
How To Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi At Home
Before the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi arrives, make sure the house is clean and that your home is organize and free of clutter. On the day of Ganesh Chaturthi, get up early in the morning and take a holy bath since this is an auspicious and joyous day. Every member of the household is responsible for dividing up the tasks, and they must all collaborate to do the puja and ask for his blessings.
Step 1: Bring Home the Lord Ganesh Idol
There are three different ways that may be in use while organizing the puja for Lord Ganesh. Some individuals make use of a picture, image, or idol that is already present in the space that serves as their puja. You also have the option of utilising clay or turmeric to fashion an idol on your own with the help of other members of your family. New statues or representations of Ganesh, known as murtis, may be purchase from the various stores and pandals.
This is the option that is in use by the vast majority of families more often than any other. During the 10 days that make up this festival, participants hunt for a new Ganesh idol to use in their rituals and prayers. This search takes place annually.
Step 2: Establish an Altar of Lord Ganesh
Establish a sitting arrangement for Lord Ganesh on an elevated platform or the household’s customary puja altar. Create the rangoli to place in front of the altar. Spread a cloth that is appealing to the eye across the pedestal or platform. Put the picture or idol of Ganesh on the altar where the puja is being perform.
Step 3: Perform the Ganesh Puja
Coconut oil or gingelly oil may be in use to illuminate a light. A gathering should be in front of the altar with all of the family members. A ritual cleansing of an idol is possible, provide that the substance of the idol is able to withstand the effects of water. It’s possible to do this using things like rosewater, sandal paste, coconut water, honey, and Panchamrit, among other things.
After the ritual washing, a clean towel should be in use to dry the idol. The figure of Ganesh is decorate with sandal paste, vermilion, clothes, decorations, garlands of flowers, and flower garlands. Recite mantras associated with Ganesh and place flowers at the foot of the portrait or statue of him.
Significance of having Ganapati Bappa at Home
On the last day of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration is the Visarjan. And we say our goodbyes with sorrowful hearts. Anant Chaturthi, which is celebrate with a great deal of fervour, is a festival that represents the trip of the Lord to his abode after 1.5 days, 3 days, 5 days, 7 days, 10 days, or even 11 days, depending on the culture and custom that each family adheres to. Some individuals choose to follow the prescribed Muhurta and do the Visarjan procedure on the same day itself, on the Pran Pratishthapana.
Eco-friendly and Natural Ganesh Idols
The best forward-thinking approach to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, however, is to choose Ganesh idols that are beneficial to the environment. These cute little idols are craft from clay, paper mache, and red soil that has been inject with seeds that will eventually grow into lovely plants. These idols are paint with organic colours, and they do not contain any potentially toxic chemicals. Additionally, the immersion procedure for each of the following murtis is simple and straightforward.
Ganesha Made of Clay
These Murtis, which are construct of organic clay, are completely degradable and may be dispose of at home by submerging them in a bath of water. To explain, after the Uttar Puja is over, you should take a bucket, tub, or other vessel and fill it with water until it is entirely full. Immerse the clay Ganesha in water gradually while following all of the instructions of the Visarjan ritual. The water in this bucket, which has clay that has been dissolve in it, may be in use for watering the plants in your yard.
Ganpati made of Paper Mache
The organic glue, paper pulp, and clay that go into these non-polluting idols make them ideal for the Ganesh Chaturthi festival that is taking place right now. The process of submerging these idols in water may be accomplish quite quickly and painlessly in a large container. The water that is left in the container may be reuse. Recycle is done for gardening purposes if the container is outside.
Tree or Red Soil Ganesha
These portable idols of Ganesha are construct of red dirt that has been load with seeds and organic fertilisers. Fill the container with potting mix, natural clay, and organic fertilisers just before the time of Visarjan. After everything is ready, set the Ganpati murti on the mud bed. And then carefully water it. The constant application of water to this idol causes the red soil in the pot to mix. Which in turn causes the planted seeds to develop into lovely plants.
Ganesha Decorations
There is no one who can adequately convey the pleasure, positivism, enthusiasm, and atmosphere that permeates the air during the Ganesh Chaturthi holiday. Because we all have a special place in our hearts for Ganpati Bappa. We make sure that our houses are deck up in stunning, wondrous, and aesthetically pleasing designs to make the Lord feel welcome and to win his approval. Personalization may also be achieve with the use of fascinating eco-friendly Ganesha Chaturthi décor ideas. Such as those using flowers, handcraft craft items, and many other things. Here are some suggestions for home decorations that you may use to make your house seem warmer and cozier to guests.
Pink floral garland or mala with adjustable length
When draped over the neck of the lovable Ganpati Bappa. This dainty and exquisitely sculpted flower garland takes on an even more enchanting appearance. This Mala, which may be adjust in whatever way you choose. This can be worn in conjunction with other flower garlands known as Vastra.
Curtains of varying hues and levels of transparency, together with lights
You may create a stunningly attractive decorative backdrop for the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration by combining multi-color translucent curtains with sparkling lights, which together will give the illusion of a mesmerising effect.
A Collection of Ten Vibrant Backdrop Decorations
Here is one more thing to add to the long range of Ganpati decorations. And it brings its own special flavour to the celebration. When in position just behind the Ganpati idol, the splendour of each and every background that is hanging with a bell at the bottom brings the room to life.
Pinwheels made of paper
Do you have any pretty, colourful paper at home? Then why not make them into pinwheels, which are quite pretty? Indeed, this is one of the most elegant and cost-effective decorating ideas available today. Using luminous sheets of paper will allow you to accomplish this task. The greatest combinations are those that include freshly picked flowers.
Decoration made of banana leaves and flowers that is kind to the environment
Since the banana tree is one of the magnificent plants whose fruits are readily accessible throughout the year. Purchasing banana leaves is something that can be done with relative ease at the local market. Because of their great strength and ease of moulding. The barks may be in use to make floral decorations or mantaps with little to no effort on your part.
T-light stand with three tiers, model Mayur
T-light holders are a classic accessory that can make any event seem more put together. This T-light stand, which has ornate and elaborate motifs. Emits a warm glow when lighted with candles. And when in position next to an idol, helps to transmit brightness throughout the room.
Most Narrated Ganesh Slokas for Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Vidhi at home:
- Vakratunda Mahakaya Koti Surya Samaprabha, Nirvighnam Kurume Deva Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada
- Om Gajaananam Bhuta Ganaadi Sevitam Kapitta Jambuu Phala Saar Pakshitam Umasutam Shoka Vinaasha Kaaranam Namami Vighneshwara Paada Pankajam
- Shuklambharadharam Vishnum Shashi Varnam Chaturbhujam Prasanna Vadanam Dhyayet Sarva Vighnopa Shantaye.
- Om Gam Ganapataye Namah!
Step By Step Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Vidhi
Decorated with floral decorations and gorgeous lights, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations witness a doubling of joy, happiness, excitement, and devotion every day. Similarly, the Vidhis performed everyday symbolize the love towards the Lord Ganpati. Celebrated for 10 long days, this festival begins with the following Vidhis;
1. Avahana and Pratishthapana
Join your palms together with thumbs folded inside, showcasing Avahana Mudra, and chant the following mantras to invoke the idol with life.
Mantra for Avahana :
Mantra for Pratishthapana :
2. Asana Samarpan
Once the invoking and installing of the idol is done, take five flowers in your palms, recite the below mantra and offer a seat to the Lord and the flowers on his feet.
3. Padya Samarpan
This includes washing the feet of Ganpati Bappa while reciting the mantra;
4. Arghya Samarpan
While chanting the following mantra, offer scented water to the murti.
5. Achamana
6. Snana Mantra
Below are the mantras while offering Snana (bathing) to the murti.
● Jal Snana – With the chanting of the mantra Shri Ganesha is offered water for bathing.
● Panchamrita Snanam – Offering Panchamrit (milk, ghee, sugar, curd, honey) while chanting the below mantra.
● Payah/Dugdha Snanam – Give a bath with Paya (milk) while chanting the below mantra.
● Dadhi Snanam – Now bathe the idol with curd while chanting the below mantra.
● Ghrita Snanam – Give a bath with Ghee while chanting the below mantra.
● Madhu Snanam – While chanting the below mantra, offer honey to the murti.
● Sharkara Snanam – Now give a bath with sugar to the idol while chanting the below mantra.
● Suvasita Snanam – Along with chanting the below mantra, offer scented oil to the murti.
● Shuddhodaka Snanam – Bathe the murti with Gangajal while chanting the below mantra.
7. Vastra Samarpan and Uttariya Samarpan
● Vastra Samarpan – This Vidhi includes offering Moli (new clothes) to the murti and chanting of the below mantra.
● Uttariya Samarpan – Offer clothes that cover the upper body of the murti while chanting the below mantra.
● Yajnopavita Samarpan – This includes offering Yajnopavita to the idol while chanting below mantra.
● Gandha – While chanting the below mantra, offer scent to the murti.
● Akshata – While chanting the below mantra, offer Akshat (unbroken) to the murti.
8. Pushpa Mala, Shami Patra, Durvankura, Sindoor
● Pushpa Mala – Next, is to offer a garland made of flowers to the murti while chanting the following mantra.
● Shami Patra – Along with chanting the below mantra, offer Shami Patra to the murti.
● Durvankur – Now offer 3 or 5 leaflets of Durva grass to the murti while chanting the following mantra.
● Sindoor – Offer Sindoor (vermilion) while chanting the following mantra.
● Dhoop – Next is to offer Dhoop to the murti while chanting following mantra.
9. Deep Samarpan
Now offer deep to the murti while chanting the below mantra.
10. Naivedya and Karodvartan
● Naivedya Nivedan – This is the Vidhi of offering Naivedya to the Lord while chanting the following mantra.
● Chandan Karodvartan – Once Naivedya is offered, while chanting the following mantra also offer water mixed with chandan.
11. Tambula, Narikela and Dakshina Samarpan
● Tambula Samarpan – While chanting the below mantra, offer Tambula, i;e. a Paan with betel nuts.
● Narikela Samarpan – While chanting the following mantra, offer coconut to the Lord.
●Dakshina Samarpan- Once done, offer Dakshina (a gift) to the Lord while chanting the below mantra.
12. Neerajan and Visarjan
● Neerajan/Aarti – Once, Tambula, Narikela and Dakshina are offered, perform Aarti of Lord Ganesha after chanting the below mantra.
● Pushpanjali Arpan – While chanting the below mantra, offer Pushpanjali to the Lord.
● Pradakshina – While chanting below Mantra, offer Pradakshina (a symbolic circumambulate from left to right of Shri Ganesha) along with flowers.
● Visarjan – While chanting the below mantra, immerse the idol in the water.
Ganesha Arti
Sukhkarta Dukhharta Varta Vighnachi ||
Nurvi Purvi Prem Krupa Jayachi ||
Sarvangi Sundar Uti Shendurachi ||
Kanti Jhalke Mal Mukataphalaanchi..||
Jaidev Jaidev Jai Mangal Murti ||
Darshan Maatre Man: Kaamna Phurti ||
Ratnakhachit Phara Tujh Gaurikumra ||
Chandanaachi Uti Kumkumkeshara ||
Hirejadit Mukut Shobhato Bara ||
Runjhunati Nupure(2) Charani Ghagriya ||
Jaidev Jaidev Jai Mangal Murti ||
Lambodar Pitaambar Phanivarvandana ||
Saral Sond Vakratunda Trinayana ||
Das Ramacha Vat Pahe Sadana ||
Sankati Pavave Nirvani Rakshave Survarvandana ||
Jaidev Jaidev Jai Mangal Murti ||
Ganesh Chaturthi Visarjan
Ganpati Visarjan is generally done on the final day, i;e, the Anant Chaturthi of the festival. But before the Visarjan process, each and every member of the family and Pandit should be present.
● The visarjan process begins with the Uttarang Puja.
● Five items like beautiful flowers, Diyas/oil lamps, Dhoop, Gandha, and Naivedya are to be offered to Lord Ganpati.
● With the chanting of the holy mantras, Ganpati Aarti is to be performed before the idol is moved for Visarjan and the Prasad is to be distributed among family members.
● The head of the family then slightly moves the idol of Ganpati, about an inch forward.
● Following the above step is a sign that the murti will be taken for the Visarjan process.
● A spoonful of curd is poured on the outstretched palm of Ganpati, as it is a belief that the loved ones or guests who receive curd are sure to visit again.
● Remove all the flowers, garlands, and other decorations before Visarjan and ask him to bless your family and forgive for any mistakes committed.
● Handle the murti, such that the face of the idol is towards the family. This lets you witness His journey. While chanting the below mantra, immerse the idol in the water.
● With heavy hearts, all the devotees repeat, “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya”, and the Visarjan process is completed.
Final Words
Celebrations for Ganesh Chaturthi are seen all around India. On the tenth day, the Visarajan ceremony takes place. During which enormous idols are erect in public areas. So, that everyone may pay their respects. The festive procession makes its way to the coast, where the idol is submerging in the water. With Lord Ganesha’s grace, this ushers in a fresh stage of our journey. If you want to enjoy the event without having a negative impact on the environment. Make it a point to get an eco-friendly Ganesha that is construct out of natural materials.