Lord Ganesha
In Hinduism, Ganesh is an elephant headed god who is known as the remover of obstacles. He is also the son of the god Shiva and goddess Parvati. He is worshipped for good luck and is one of the most popular gods in Hinduism. Although Ganesh can be worshipped every day, there are certain days that are more auspicious than others. It is believed that his connection to Earth are strongest on these days.
GANESH CHATURTHI FESTIVAL
Ganesh Chaturthi is not only the biggest Ganesh festival, but it is also one of the most popular festivals in India. The exact date of the festival varies each year and is based off the Hindu lunar calendar. During this time, Ganesh worshippers honor statues of their beloved deity, say prayers and participate in parades. The celebration is most popular in Maharashtra, where Hindus believe Ganesh ruled for a period of time.
BEFORE IMPORTANT EVENTS
Ganesh is the bearer of good fortune. Thus, he is invoked before any business transaction or project is started. It is also common for new business owners to worship Ganesh before the first stone is laid down. He is also known as the patron of writers because he is attributed to writing the Hindu epic “The Mahabarata.” Thus, writers will pay homage to Lord Ganesh before beginning a writing project.
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
In Hinduism, each day of the week is represented by a different god or goddess. Ganesh happens to be worshiped on Tuesdays and Fridays. During these days, Hindus will go to the temple early in the morning and offer sweets and fruit to Ganesh. Priests will perform a “Puja” or a ceremony dedicated to a Ganesh shrine. Some devout Ganesh worshipers may even choose to fast on these days.
MONTHLY CHATURTHI
Every month, the fourth day after a new and full moon is worshiped as “Chaturthi.” According to Ganesh worshipers, the fourth day after a full moon is called Chaturthi Sankashti. If this day falls on a Tuesday, it is known as Chaturthi Angaraki and is considered highly auspicious. The fourth day after a new moon is called Chaturthi Vinayaki. During these days, fasts and many rituals are observed by Ganesh worshipers.