Mumbai: Ganesh Chaturthi is a significant Hindu festival honouring Lord Ganesha, the god of new beginnings, wisdom, and prosperity. Celebrated with grand rituals and offerings, this festival marks a time when devotees seek blessings for happiness and the fulfilment of their desires.
This year, Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 will be observed on September 7, as per the Hindu calendar. The Chaturthi Tithi (fourth day) begins at 3:31 PM on September 6 and ends at 5:37 PM on September 7. Additionally, this year, a rare Brahma Yoga will occur, which is considered highly auspicious in astrology. The day will conclude with the formation of Indra Yoga, further enhancing the positive energies of this festival.
On this special occasion, devotees place idols of Lord Ganesha in their homes and perform rituals with deep devotion. Offering bhog (food offerings) is an essential part of the celebrations. It is believed that offering Lord Ganesha’s favourite bhog brings joy and success to the family. Let’s explore some of the most beloved offerings for Ganesh Chaturthi.
Lord Ganesha’s Favourite Bhog for Ganesh Chaturthi
Modak: The most cherished by Lord Ganesha, modak is made from rice, coconut, and jaggery. This sweet dumpling is a must-have offering during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Semolina Halwa: Known for its rich flavour, semolina halwa is another beloved offering for Ganesh Chaturthi.
Moong Dal Halwa: This rich and festive dessert is a popular bhog item for Lord Ganesha.
Milk: Offerings of milk, especially infused with saffron, cardamom, or almonds, are believed to please Lord Ganesha.
Yoghurt: Another favourite, you can offer sweetened yoghurt mixed with sugar or jaggery.
Coconut: Often regarded as a symbol of Lord Ganesha, coconut is an essential offering, signifying purity and spirituality.
Besan Laddoo: A favourite sweet, besan laddoo is offered to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha for prosperity.
Flowers: Fresh flowers like lotus, rose, and jasmine are a beautiful way to honour Lord Ganesha.
Fruits: Bananas, apples, and grapes are commonly offered as fruits that symbolise purity and prosperity.
Puri and Potato Curry: Lord Ganesha is also fond of savoury offerings like puri served with potato curry or yoghurt.
Sweets: Sweets like barfi, peda, and jalebi are commonly offered, symbolising the sweetness of life.
Bhog Mantra: Invoke Lord Ganesha’s Blessings
When offering bhog to Lord Ganesha, chant the following mantra:
Tvadiyam Vastu Govinda Tubhyameva Samarpaye |
Grihana Sannmukho Bhutva Prasida Parameshwara ||
This translates to: “O Lord, whatever I have is yours. I offer it to you. Please accept this offering.”
Important Rituals and Traditions
When celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi, it’s important to perform the rituals with love and devotion. Offer any of Lord Ganesha’s favourite bhog with sincerity, and in return, the god of new beginnings will remove obstacles from your life and bestow his blessings upon you.
Whether you’re celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 by offering modak, flowers, or any other favourite item of Lord Ganesha, the key to receiving his blessings lies in your devotion. Prepare these offerings with love, and may this auspicious festival bring joy, prosperity, and fulfilment to all.
Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most important Hindu festivals, honours Lord Ganesha, the god of new beginnings and wisdom. Learn about the special rituals, offerings, and astrological significance of this festival in 2024. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips