Lord Ganesha has many sobriquets that depict the different roles he plays.
Maha Ganapathy which means the omnipotent and the powerful one.
Vighneshwara or Vignaharta which means the remover of obstacles.
Kshipra Ganapati is the one who acts quickly and Siddhivinayaka, the one who is the bestower of success.
Ganesha is a synonym for wisdom, vast intellect and perfect understanding.
Lord that removes obstacles, relieves one of their bad karma and bestows them with blessings in the form of wisdom wealth and prosperity.
Ganesh Chaturthi stands as a perfect occasion to pray to Please Lord Ganesha and the time where all obstacles from our path can be removed, paving a path to victory.
Those obstacles may just be our unwanted thoughts that block our paths.
He saves those thoughts in an unwanted part of our mind. While the Visarjan these thoughts are then transferred to Vishnu, where Vishnu is symbolised by water, who comprehends our thoughts.
Therefore, Ganesha Chaturthi symbolizes getting rid of the unwanted thoughts that Please Lord Ganesha stored throughout the year, which are symbolized by the Ganesha idol made of Clay.
May Lord Ganesha bless us all!
Pleasing Lord Ganesha involves devotion, prayers, and following rituals that honor him. Here are some ways to seek his blessings:
1. Chant His Mantras
Reciting Ganesha mantras regularly can help attract his blessings. Some powerful mantras include:
- Om Gan Ganapataye Namah
- Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha, Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada
2. Offer Prayers and Puja
- Start with a clean heart and space.
- Offer Durva grass, red flowers (Hibiscus is preferred), modaks, and coconut as these are Lord Ganesha’s favorite offerings.
- Light a ghee lamp and incense sticks while reciting his prayers.
3. Observe Fasting on Sankashti Chaturthi
- Observing a fast on Sankashti Chaturthi (the 4th day after the full moon) is believed to remove obstacles.
- Breaking the fast after moonrise, after offering prayers, is considered auspicious.
4. Be Kind and Remove Obstacles for Others
- Since Ganesha is the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta), helping others in their difficulties brings his blessings.
- Practicing patience, humility, and wisdom aligns with his teachings.
5. Read and Listen to Ganesha Stories
- Reading Ganesha Purana or Ganesh Atharvashirsha is beneficial.
- Listening to his bhajans or kirtans spreads positive energy.
6. Place Ganesha Idol at Home or Work
- Keeping an idol or picture of Ganesha at the entrance of your home or office removes negativity.
- Ensure the idol’s trunk is tilted to the left, as it is considered auspicious.
7. Practice Gratitude and Positivity
- Lord Ganesha represents wisdom, intellect, and prosperity.
- A grateful attitude and avoiding negativity in thoughts and actions can bring his grace.