Hindus worship Lord Ganesha in almost all religious and secular functions. Ganesh Pujan is considered as an unavoidable ritual at the beginning of any new ventures like starting a new business, buying a vehicle, entering a new home, marriage ceremony and even before appearing examinations. It is unlikely to see any Hindu homes without a Ganesh idol or where, Ganesh puja is not performed. Lord Ganesh is considered to be the most popular deity who blesses his devotees with prosperity and success and protects them from all obstacles and evils.
Facts about Shree Ganesh Puja:
1) ‘Om Shri Gaṇeshāya Namah’ is the main mantra in Shree Ganesh puja where Om represents the salutation to God. Another important mantra related to Ganesha puja is ‘Om Gan Ganapataye Namah’.
2) The main offering to Lord Ganesha during puja is sweets like laddus and modaks. Usually, a bowl of sweets is included in most Ganesha idols, which is called modakapātra.
3) Before performing Ganesha puja, the idol is adorned with red sandalwood paste or raktacandana and red flowers.
4) There are many other essentials required for a complete Ganesha Puja, including Durva grass, coconut, incense sticks and so on.
Since the puja of Lord Ganesha is such a grand celebration in India and many other countries, month-long festivals are observed with Ganesh Chaturthi (Vinayaka chaturthi). In the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, around August-September, birthday of Lord Ganesh is celebrated on the suklapaksa. Ganesh pujan is generally performed at homes as well as within huge pandals in the public. While performing Ganesha Puja at home, care should be taken to do it with a purified mind and a clean body. Sincere devotion to god is more important than rituals. Praying to god from the bottom of your heart will please Lord Ganesha more than just following elaborate rituals.
