Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Dos and Don’ts While Performing Ganpati Bappa Puja at Home!

Ganesh Chaturthi, a significant festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is fast approaching. It commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha and is celebrated with immense enthusiasm throughout India. It will be celebrated from September 19 to September 28. This festival holds particular grandeur in regions like Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. During Ganesh Utsav, devotees celebrate Lord Ganesha for ten days by welcoming his idol into their homes and at the end of the festival, immerse it in water bodies.

Lord Ganesha, also known as ‘Vighnaharta,’ is believed to remove obstacles and bring good luck and prosperity. He is considered the Lord of Beginnings, so people seek his blessings before starting new ventures. During this festival, devotees bring Ganesha idols home, perform rituals, and offer him his favourite sweets, ladoos and modak.

Ganesh Utsav, this year, will begin on September 18 and conclude on September 28. If you intend to welcome Ganpati Bappa into your home, here are some essential guidelines to consider.

Dos

1. When making a Ganesha idol, remember to include a majestic crown or ‘mukut’ for good luck and fortune.

2. Whether you buy or make the idol, ensure that Lord Ganesha is in a sitting position, accompanied by his mouse companion and a few ‘modaks’ for positive energy.

3. Cover the Ganesha idol with a red cloth or ‘chunari’ when welcoming him home.

4. Place the Ganesha idol facing east, west, or northeast during the ‘sthapana’ for auspiciousness.

5. Welcome Ganpati Bappa with conch shells, bells, and a festive atmosphere.

6. You can welcome Lord Ganesha for 1.5, 3, 5, 7, 10, or 11 days before performing the visarjan ceremony.

Don’ts

1. After the installation of Lord Ganesha (Ganpati Sthapna), it’s advisable for devotees and their family members to avoid consuming garlic and onions.

2. Never leave Lord Ganesha unattended at home. Ensure that at least one family member is present with the idol at all times.

3. Before immersing Lord Ganesha, make sure to perform aarti, puja, and offer bhog (food offerings) to him as a mark of respect.

4. Be prompt in performing Ganpati Sthapna and adhere to the auspicious muhurat (timing) for the installation.

5. During the 10-day festival, refrain from consuming meat and alcohol as a mark of devotion and respect for Lord Ganesha.