Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Rituals, Fasting Guidelines, and Dos & Don'ts

Ganesh Chaturthi festival, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, success, and good fortune. This festival lasts for 10 days and is widely celebrated in India, especially in the state of Maharashtra. This year it will be celebrated from September 19 to September 28. The festival is not only a religious celebration but also a cultural extravaganza that brings people together in a spirit of joy and unity. It is a time for reflection, devotion, and celebration of the divine qualities represented by Lord Ganesha. Here’s a look at the rituals and customs associated with the festival.

GANESH CHATURTHI 2023: MAIN RITUALS

1. Prana PratishtaThis is the ritual of infusing life into the Ganesha idol. It is performed on the first day of the festival by a priest who chants mantras and performs various rituals.
2. ShodashopacharaThis is a 16-step ritual in which the Ganesha idol is offered prayers and offerings, such as flowers, fruits, sweets, and modaks (a sweet dish made of rice flour and coconut).
3. UttarpujaThis ritual is performed on the last day of the festival to bid farewell to Lord Ganesha. It involves offering prayers and aartis (ceremonial lamps) to the idol.
4. Ganpati VisarjanThis is the final ritual in which the Ganesha idol is immersed in a river or a lake. This is done to symbolize the return of Lord Ganesha to his abode in Mount Kailash.

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GANESH CHATURTHI 2023: TRADITIONAL PRACTICES

1. Some people fast during the entire 10-day festival, while others fast on the first and last days.
2. There are many songs and dances that are dedicated to Lord Ganesha. These are performed during the festival to celebrate his arrival and to seek his blessings.
3. Firecrackers are burst during the festival to ward off evil spirits and to welcome Lord Ganesha.
4. Modaks are a popular offering to Lord Ganesha. They are also distributed to friends and family members as a way of spreading joy and goodwill.

DOS AND DON’TS WHILE PERFORMING GANESH CHATURTHI RITUALS

Dos:

1. Use an eco-friendly Ganesh idol made from clay or natural materials to reduce environmental impact during immersion.
2. Before installing the idol, thoroughly clean the worship area and ensure it is pure and tidy.
3. Maintain ethical and moral conduct throughout the festival, avoiding any negative or harmful behavior.
4. Perform daily prayers and rituals with devotion and sincerity, including the offering of flowers, incense, lamps, and sweets to the deity.
5. Prepare or offer modaks, as it is considered Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet.

Don’ts:

1. Do not immerse idols made of materials that can harm the environment, such as plaster of Paris or non-biodegradable substances.
2. Avoid polluting water bodies during the idol immersion. Opt for natural, eco-friendly colors for decorating the idol.
3. Do not waste excessive water, electricity, or other resources during the festival. Practice conservation.
4. Refrain from loud or disruptive behaviour that may disturb neighbors or the community.
5. It is generally not appropriate to consume alcohol or non-vegetarian food during the festival, as it is considered inauspicious by many.

GANESH CHATURTHI 2023: FASTING RULES

1. The fasting rules vary depending on the individual’s beliefs and practices. There are different levels of fasting you can choose from, depending on your personal preferences and health conditions:

1. Nirjal (Waterless) FastingThis is a strict form of fasting where you abstain from both food and water for the entire day.
2. Phalahar (Fruit) FastingIn this type of fasting, you can consume fruits, nuts, and dairy products like milk and yogurt.
3. Satvik FastingThis involves consuming only simple, vegetarian, and easily digestible food items like sabudana (tapioca pearls), fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

2. Determine the Duration: Decide whether you want to fast for the entire day, a specific time period, or just during specific meals. The duration of your fast can vary based on your personal capacity and devotion.

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3. During the fast, maintain physical and mental purity. Avoid negative thoughts, gossip, and engage in spiritual activities like chanting prayers and mantras.

4. Regardless of the type of fasting you choose, non-vegetarian food is strictly avoided during Ganesh Chaturthi fasting.

5. Many people avoid onion and garlic in their fasting dishes as these are considered to be Tamasic foods, which are believed to inhibit spiritual growth.

6. When preparing fasting meals, use minimal spices and oil to keep the food simple and easily digestible.

7. Regular table salt (iodized salt) is usually avoided during fasting. Instead, use rock salt, also known as sendha namak, which is considered pure and acceptable for fasting.

8. If you are fasting without water, it’s crucial to keep yourself hydrated before and after the fasting period. Drink plenty of water in the morning before starting your fast.

9. When it’s time to break your fast, start with something light like fruits or milk, and then gradually consume a full meal. Avoid overeating or indulging in heavy and rich foods right after the fast.

10. If you have health conditions or dietary restrictions, consult with a healthcare professional before fasting. Your well-being should be a priority.