Puja Vidhi · Lord Ganesha
Ganesh Puja
गणेश पूजा
Ganesh Puja is performed at the beginning of every Hindu ritual, auspicious event, or new endeavour. Lord Ganesha is the Vighnaharta — the remover of obstacles — and Prathama Pujya, the first to be worshipped. Ganesh Chaturthi is the most elaborate annual Ganesh celebration.
Puja Samagri (Materials Required)
- ◆Idol or image of Lord Ganesha
- ◆Modak (sweet dumpling) — Ganesha's favourite
- ◆Durva grass (Ganesha loves this more than any flower)
- ◆Red flowers: hibiscus, red ixora
- ◆Sandalwood paste
- ◆Turmeric powder and kumkum
- ◆Incense and camphor
- ◆Coconut
- ◆21 Durva blades (the most auspicious number)
- ◆Yellow cloth
Step-by-Step Vidhi
- 1
Purify the space and yourself with water (Achamana)
- 2
Place Ganesha idol or picture on the altar facing east or north
- 3
Perform Pranpratishtha (invocation) if installing a new idol
- 4
Apply sandalwood paste and kumkum to the idol
- 5
Offer 21 Durva grass blades — this is Ganesha's most important offering
- 6
Offer red flowers, modak, coconut, and fruits
- 7
Light incense and camphor
- 8
Recite Ganesha mantra 108 times: Om Gam Ganapataye Namah
- 9
Recite Ganesh Aarti: 'Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh Deva'
- 10
Offer modak as prasad and distribute to family
Main Mantra
Om Gam Ganapataye Namah
Chant 108 times during the puja
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ganesha worshipped first before any puja?
In the Hindu tradition, Ganesha is Prathama Pujya — the first to be worshipped before any ritual or auspicious event. As the Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles) and Vighnakarta (creator of obstacles for enemies), invoking him first ensures smooth completion of any endeavour.
What is Ganesha's favourite offering?
Durva grass (three-bladed grass) is Ganesha's most beloved offering — more precious to him than any flower, according to the Ganesha Purana. Modak (sweet stuffed dumpling) is his favourite food offering. Red hibiscus flowers are also specially dear to him.
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