Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu Festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity. Every Hindu prayer begins with the name of Ganesha, the god of wisdom and the bringer of positivity. On Ganesh Chaturthi, a Ganesha idol is brought home, and some even make idols out of clay with their own hands. This auspicious festival is marked by devotion, culture, and joy. The celebrations last up to 10 days, and on the 11th day, known as Anant Chaturdashi, the idol is immersed in water. Let us explore the story of Siddhivinayak and delve into India’s rich mythology and traditions.
The Unique Birth Story of Lord Ganesha
Lord Ganesha’s birth story is as unique as he is, holding a special place in Hindu mythology. The story begins with Goddess Parvati, the embodiment of divine shakti, wishing to have someone who would be loyal to her alone. One day, while preparing to bathe at her home on Mount Kailash, she instructed Nandi, Lord Shiva’s loyal bull, to guard the entrance and not let anyone in. Soon after, Lord Shiva returned and wished to enter. Out of devotion to Shiva, Nandi let him pass.
This made Parvati feel that she lacked someone who would be loyal to her in the same way. Determined, she created a boy from turmeric paste and clay she had used during her bath. Breathing life into the figure, she named him Ganesha and accepted him as her son. Entrusting him with the duty of guarding her privacy, she blessed him with loyalty and strength.
The Rebirth as the Elephant-Headed Deity
Although today we know Ganesha as the elephant-headed god, he was not born this way. Let’s get to know the story of his becoming one.
One day, while Parvati bathed, she instructed young Ganesha to guard the entrance to their home. This time, as Lord Shiva tries to enter, unknowingly who the boy is, dutifully, Ganesha stopped him. Amused at first, Shiva soon grew furious at the boy’s defiance. He sent his army to remove Ganesha, but empowered by Parvati’s divine energy, the child defeated them all.
Enraged, Shiva himself fought Ganesha and, in a moment of anger, severed his head. Then, Parvati rushed out and was devastated. Later, seeing Parvati and her pain, Shiva felt guilt and promised to restore Ganesha’s head.
He instructed his followers to bring the head of the first living being they encountered whose mother was lying with her back turned to her child. They returned with the head of an elephant. Shiva placed it on Ganesha’s body, reviving him as the elephant-headed deity we worship today. Blessed with wisdom and strength, he became the remover of obstacles, earning the title Vighnaharta.
The Story of Ekdant: The One-Tusked God
Ganesha is also known as Ekdant, meaning “one-tusked,” a name tied to another intriguing legend. One story recounts his encounter with Sage Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. When Parashurama visited Mount Kailash to meet Shiva, Ganesha stopped him, as Shiva was meditating.
Angered, Parashurama struck Ganesha with his divine axe, gifted by Shiva. Out of respect for his father’s weapon, Ganesha allowed the axe to hit him, breaking one of his tusks. From then on, he was called Ekdant. This act of humility made him a symbol of sacrifice and wisdom.
Riddhi and Siddhi: Ganesha’s Divine Companions
Ganesha’s marriage story is equally fascinating. Feeling lonely while others enjoyed companionship, Ganesha once created mischief during weddings with the help of his mouse companions, such as digging holes to disrupt ceremonies.
When Lord Brahma learned of this, he decided to bless Ganesha with companionship. Brahma married him to Riddhi (prosperity) and Siddhi (spiritual success), who became his consorts. They later blessed him with two sons, Shubh (auspiciousness) and Labh (profit). This story reflects Ganesha’s role as a deity of fulfilment, balance, and family harmony.
Ganesha Chaturthi Celebrations
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of India’s grandest festivals, uniting millions in devotion and celebration. Especially in Maharashtra, massive pandals such as Lalbaugcha Raja attract enormous crowds. Devotees offer modaks (Ganesha’s favourite sweet), laddoos, and sing devotional songs.
Beautiful jhankis (tableaux) and cultural programs are also organised. The festival reminds us of Ganesha’s qualities, wisdom, humility, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Whether crafting clay idols at home or joining vibrant processions, devotees honour Ganesha’s divine presence, seeking blessings for prosperity and success.
With this Ganesh Chaturthi, let us embrace the spirit of devotion, community, and joy. May Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, bless us with wisdom and auspicious beginnings. Ganpati Bappa Morya!
Celebrate with the JPSR Prabhu Shriram Ganesh Chaturthi Collection
The Ganesh Chaturthi Collection is a specially curated combination of three amazing fragrances of incense cones. The pack has Ganesha’s family pack that includes Maa Meenakshi Temple, Shri Kashi Vishwananath Temple and Shri Siddhivinayak Temple and an elegant ceramic pyramid incense diffuser. Honour the birth anniversary of Shri Ganesha with the divine blessings of the Divine Family through fragrance.
