Lord Ganesha, also known as Ganapati or Vinayaka, is one of the most beloved and revered deities in Hinduism. He is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is widely regarded as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, knowledge, and new beginnings. Lord Ganesha is easily recognizable by his elephant head and a plump, childlike body.
Here are some important details about Lord Ganesha:
- Appearance: As mentioned, Lord Ganesha has an elephant head and a pot-bellied human body. He is often depicted with four arms, holding various objects such as a broken tusk, a lotus, an axe, and a bowl of sweets or modakas (his favorite delicacy).
- Symbolism: Lord Ganesha’s elephant head symbolizes wisdom, intelligence, and foresight. His large ears represent the ability to listen attentively, and the small eyes signify the need to focus on the inner vision. His broken tusk symbolizes sacrifice for the greater good.
- Vahana (Mount): Lord Ganesha’s vahana is a mouse or rat, called Mushika. Despite being small, Mushika represents the ability to gnaw through all obstacles, just as Lord Ganesha helps his devotees overcome hurdles.
- Popular Mantra: The most well-known mantra dedicated to Lord Ganesha is “Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha.” Chanting this mantra is believed to invoke his blessings and remove obstacles from one’s path.
Important Dates and Auspicious Occasions:
- Ganesh Chaturthi: This is one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is celebrated on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (usually in August or September). The festival typically lasts for ten days, with colorful processions, decorations, and the immersion of Ganesha idols in water bodies on the last day.
- Sankashti Chaturthi: It falls on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) in every lunar month. However, the Sankashti Chaturthi that falls on the fourth day of the Magha month is considered most auspicious. Devotees observe fasts and perform puja to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings on this day.
- Vinayaka Chaturthi (Varad Chaturthi): Celebrated on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Magha (usually in January or February), this day is considered auspicious for starting new ventures and seeking Ganesha’s blessings for success.
- Ganesha Jayanti: Also known as Magha Shukla Chaturthi, this day marks the birthday of Lord Ganesha and is celebrated with fervor and devotion. It falls on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the month of Magha (January or February).
These are some of the significant dates and occasions dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Devotees worship him with great enthusiasm and seek his blessings for success, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles in their lives.
