Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the fourth day of Shukla Paksha of the month Bhadra. According to Ganesh Purana, Lord Ganesh was born on this day. There is a curiously interesting tale about the birth of Ganesha. It is believed that once while Parvati was bathing, she created a human figure from some unguent and balm, gave him life and asked him to guard the door while she bathed.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in grand style and fervor in Maharashtra. The Ganesh festival is celebrated there for ten days.
Lord Ganesha is a deity who is also considered as the god of intelligence. It is believed that Lord Ganapati was the family deity of the Peshwas.
Ganesh’s blessing eliminates 21 kinds of sufferings.
Lovingly called Bappa, Lord Ganesha is fond of Durva (Grass) and people’s wishes get fulfilled if Durva is offered to the deity.
Ganesha’s vehicle is rat and has a habit of sitting.
Lord Ganesha is worshipped on any auspicious occasion. In fact, Lord Ganesha is worshipped first before any puja.
Swastika symbol, modak and red flowers are very dear to him.
Lord Ganesha fulfills wishes very quickly.
In astrology, Ganesha is considered to be the deity of Ketu.
Since it was Mother Parvati (Gauri) who gave birth to Ganesha, Gauri Puja became an integral part of Ganesh Chaturthi. This is also the reason why the idol of Gauri is made with turmeric paste.
PNN/Agencies