Shloka
विघ्नेश्वराय वरदाय सुरप्रियाय लम्बोदराय सकलाय जगद्धितायं।
नागाननाथ श्रुतियज्ञविभूषिताय गौरीसुताय गणनाथ नमो नमस्ते॥
Vighneshwaraya Varadaya Surapriyay Lambodaray Sakalaya Jagaddhitayam
Nagananatha Shrutiyajnavibhushitay Gaurisutaya Gananatha Namo Namaste
Meaning:
Salutations to Bhagwan Ganesha, the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta), the giver of boons and blessings, the one who the Devas love, the one with a large belly, representing the universe's vastness, and the one who is the supporter of the entire world. Repeated salutations and reverence to the one adorned with serpents as ornaments, the one glorified through Vedic mantras, the son of Goddess Gauri (Parvati), and the leader of the Ganas (attendants of Bhagwan Shiv).
Ganesh Jayanti: A Festival of Devotion and Celebration
Magh Ganesh Jayanti popularly known as Ganesha Jayanti or Tilkund Chaturthi, is an auspicious Hindu festival dedicated to Bhagwan Ganesha. He is the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. Celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waxing moon during the Hindu month of Magh (January-February), this festival holds a special place in the hearts of devotees.
myNachiketa delightfully presents important information on Ganesh Jayanti so that children can find the significance of this joyous festival, learn about the stories of Bhagwan Ganesha, and understand the vibrant ways it is celebrated.
Why is Magh Ganesh Jayanti Celebrated?
Magh Ganesh Jayanti is the day of birth of Bhagwan Ganesha, who is respected as the symbol of wisdom and success. On this day devotees worship Bhagwan Ganesh for spiritual growth. Celebrating this day with devotion is believed to bring prosperity, remove obstacles, and fulfill desires.
The story behind the birth of Bhagwan Ganesha
Maa Parvati, the wife of Bhagwan Shiva, lived on Mount Kailash. One day, she wanted to take a bath but had no one to guard the door of her house. She took some sandalwood paste and started shaping it into a figure. Slowly, she moulded a little boy with great care and love. When the figure was ready, she used her divine powers to bring life into it. Maa Parvati was delighted when the boy came to life and considered him her son. When Bhagwan Shiva came to pay a visit to Parvati ji, her son who was guarding the door stopped him. After a lot of arguments and explanations, Bhagwan Shiva, in his anger, used his trident and cut off the boy’s head. When Parvati Ji came out and saw what had happened, she was heartbroken. Shiva Ji felt very sorry and promised to bring the boy back to life. He sent his attendants to find the head of the first living creature they saw. The attendants found an elephant and got its head. Shiva placed the elephant’s head on the boy’s body and brought him back to life. Parvati Ji was overjoyed to see her son alive again.
Shiva Ji blessed the boy and named him Ganesha, the leader of Shiva’s attendants. People worship Ganesha as the remover of obstacles and also pray to him before starting anything new.
How is Magh Ganesh Jayanti Celebrated?
Devotees wake up early and take a bath, often in rivers or holy water bodies. This is followed by the placing of Ganesha idols at homes or temples. The idol of Lord Ganesha is decorated with flowers and turmeric. Special offerings such as modaks (sweet dumplings), tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets), and laddoos are prepared and offered during the prayers. Many devotees observe a day-long fast, consuming only specific foods like fruits, milk, and sweets. The fast is broken after the evening aarti.
Magh Ganesh Jayanti is more than a celebration; it is an opportunity to learn and apply wisdom. Bhagwan Ganesh's large ears teach us to listen more, his small eyes signify focus, and his trunk's ability to move obstacles teaches us the quality of adaptability. The day encourages devotees to adopt these qualities, strengthening wisdom and determination in their lives.
This day is a beautiful reminder of Ganesha’s timeless relevance in guiding us on the path of righteousness and prosperity.
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