History, Ritual and Unknown Facts about Ganesh Chaturthi

Posted on 05/09/2016 I by: AstroSaathi

Ganesh Chaturthi is the one of the major festivals celebrated in India. It was first celebrated by the great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja. This festival is popularly known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chavithi. It lasts for 10 days and ends on the day of Ananta Chaturdashi.

Bappa`s birth...

According to legends, once when mother Parvati was having a bath, she created a human figure and gave him life. When Lord Shiva came back from meditation and wanted to meet his wife, he was stopped by Ganesha. Furious at his act, Lord Shiva cut off Ganesha’s head. Since His head could not be rejoined, the head of the first living creature, the elephant was attached to his body.

Significance...

It is believed that by observing Vrat (fasting) or performing Puja on Chaturthi is highly rewarding. It brings material progress, happiness and fulfillment of desires. It also removes obstacles coming in our way, create favorable situations for our success, bring knowledge, wealth and prosperity. This is why Lord Ganesh is also called as Siddivinayaka, fulfillment of our desires and Vigneshwara, removal of obstacles.

Facts...

Maharashtra is the state known for grand scale Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

There are four main rituals during the festival: Pranapratishhtha, Shhodashopachara, Uttarpuja and Ganpati Visarjan.

The plate offered to the God is supposed to be filled with twenty-one pieces of Bappa`s favorite Modak.

Lokmanya Tilak changed Ganesh Chaturthi celebration from a private affair to a grand public event to bridge the gap between Brahmins and non-Brahmins.

Lord Ganesha is also worshiped in Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Nepal and China.