Ganesh Utsav Ganpati Bappa Morya!
Ganesh Utsav - The Ganpati festival is just round the corner and preparations have begun in full swing. Ganesh, the son of Shiva, is worshipped the world over for his wisdom and he bestows prosperity and happiness on all who worship him. He is also known as ‘vighnahartaa’ or the remover of obstacles.
Ganesh has to be worshipped at the beginning of every puja or ritual. He is an endower of prosperity and wisdom. Although the Ganesh pandaals are a bit too noisy during this time of the year, it is nevertheless good to watch so many people so devotedly offering prayers and gifts to the deity.
The saddest part is, however, when on visarjan day, the large statues are immersed in the seas. So much hard work just goes down the drain. I don’t know about you, but I feel that the Ganesh idols should not be immersed. But on second thought, the immersion reminds us that all things have an end, whether good or bad and that life is all about flux.
Ganesh, in mythology, was a good son to his parents. There is one story I particularly like. It goes like this.
Once Ganesh and his brother Karikeya were asked to go around the world by their parents, Shiva and Parvati, and the fastest one would win. While Kartikeya started off on a world trip, Ganesh only encircled his parents, denoting that they meant the world to him. This story stresses the importance of thinking and application for human development. It also highlights the importance of values, morals and ethics.
Ganesh is the lord of the ‘buddhi’ and good thought always precede good actions. Hence, one must worship Ganesh for a sharp mind and a keen intellect.
Neha Singh
Modak Recipe - Ganapati’s favourite Sweet
