Sri Ganesha
Ganesha is the son of Parvati and Shiva. He is the remover of all obstacles.
He is worshipped first before starting any religious function. Other common
names of Ganesha are Ganapati, Vinayaka, and Vigneshvara.
Ganesha is variedly worshipped as a bachelor, and as a Lord with two consorts.
The two consorts of Lord Ganesha are considered to be siddhi (achievement)
and buddhi (intellect), or siddhi and ruddhi (prosperity)
SLOKA/PRAYER
Gajaananam Bootha Ganaadhi Sevitham
Kapiththa
Jamboo Phala Saara Bhakshitham
Umaa Sutham Soka Vinaasa Kaaranam
Namaami Vigneswara Paadha Pankajam
MEANING
I prostrate at the lotus feet of the Lord who removes obstacles. He,
with the elephant face, the son of Uma, is served by all the hordes of Lord
Siva. He fondly eats fruits and relishes their juices. He destroys all our
sorrows.
GANESHA AT SSVT
In Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, Ganesha has a special place in
His own shrine built in Chola style architecture.
AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALSThe fourth day of the lunar fortnight
(Chathurti) and Tuesdays and Fridays are special to Ganesha. The Chathurti that
comes after a full moon is called Sankatahara Chathurti. Chathurti of the bright
fortnight in the Hindu month of Simha (Bhaadrapadha) is celebrated as Ganesha
Chathurthi.
SPECIAL OFFERINGSOfferings of modhaka and of durva grass garlands are
special to Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is decorated with viboodhi, turmeric and sandal
powder. Performing Ganapathi Homam before starting any project is very
auspicious.
GAYATHRI
Thath Purushyaaya Vidhmahe
Vakrathundaaya
Dheemahi
Thanno Dhandhi Prachodayaath.
MEANING
We worship that supreme person; Salutations to that Lord with a bent
trunk. May that Lord with a tusk stimulate our creative faculties.
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