Key Rituals and Celebrations

•  Installation (Sthapana):
  • A clay or metal idol of Lord Ganesha is installed on a decorated platform. 
    
     
  • The area is purified with water, and a red cloth is placed for the idol. 
    
     
  • The idol is decorated with flowers, garlands, and other festive decorations. 
    
     
  • Prana Pratishtha (invocation of life) is performed by chanting mantras and infusing life into the idol. 
    
     
   Daily Puja and Aarti:
  • Daily aartis (worship rituals with lamps) are performed, accompanied by chanting mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”. 
    
     
  • Offerings of fruits, sweets (especially modaks), and flowers are made to the idol. 
    
     
  • Bhajans (devotional songs) are sung in praise of Lord Ganesha. 
    
     
   Shodashopachara Puja (16-fold worship):
  • This detailed puja includes 16 steps, such as offering an asiento, arghya (water for washing feet), gandha (sandalwood), etc. 
    
     
   Special Rituals:
  • Some devotees observe fasting (either total or a Sattvik diet) during the festival. 
    
     
  • Reading stories about Lord Ganesha (like the Samantaka mani story) is also a common practice. 
    
     
  • Visarjan (immersion) is the final ritual where the idol is immersed in water. 
    
     
  • Eco-friendly practices are encouraged for the Visarjan ceremony. 
    
     
  . Visarjan (Immersion):
  • On the final day, Anant Chaturdashi, the idol is immersed in a river, lake, or sea. 
    
     
  • The immersion ceremony is a joyous occasion with devotees chanting “Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhachya Varshi Lavkar Ya”. 

Enjoy this vibrant festival filled with joy, devotion, and cultural performances!