Ganesh Chaturthi 2017: Significance of Puja Samagri

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New Delhi: Each Ganesh Chaturthi, we worship lord Ganesha with all our heart. The Ganesh Puja carried out is an elaborate one with various prerequisites.

Each item has a special significance and here is the significance of the Ganesh Puja Samagri.

Red Flowers

Ganesha is fond of red coloured flowers and this is why red hibiscus is always offered to the diety. Hibiscus is a radiant flower and gives out a pleasant frangrance. Moreover, fresh flowers are a symbol of purity, beauty, and softness.

Supari - Betel Nut

One must be confident, but not egoistinc. Ego is the ultimate enemy of mankind and hence, Supari or Betel nut is offered to the lord as a symbol of offering one's ego. Once you offer your ego to God, you'll be left with pure qualities only. 

Coconut

Every part of a coconut is useful in some or the other way. When we use coconut during Ganesh Puja, it symbolises the presence of Shiva and must attract all blessings from heaven. 
The coconut is broken which signifies breaking all hurdles of life. We all know that lord Ganesha is worshiped as Vighna Vinayak, which means the one who ends all troubles. 

Kumkum and Sandalwood

Kumkum or sindoor is another Ganesh Pujan samagri. The reason behind this is that Kukum is used for purification and protection. It also enhances the inner eye. Sandalwoon is applied to Ganesha's forhead as it is known for its aroma and cooling effect.

Mouli - Red Thread

Mouli which is also known as Kalawa is a red coloured thread, made of cotton. It is very sacred and is used as an offering of cloth to the lord. Mouli is tried around a kalash and is used in almost every sacred ritual of Hindus.

21 Blades of Kusha/Durva Grass

This Kusha/Durva grass  is a symbol of prosperity. Lord Ganesha is also worshipped for renewal, rebirth and fertility and this is what this grass signifies. 

Incense Sticks and Lamp

The incense sticks are a frequent offering to all the lords in Hindu religion. Fragrance is supposed to please the lord and also has a purifying effect. 
The lamp gives out light and hence, drives away the negative aura from the puja premises. 

Modak

While almost everyone is fond of Modak, the sweet was a favourite of lord Ganesha as well. On Ganesh Chaturthi, this sweet, thus has a special significance. 21 modaks must be offered to lord Ganesha in the ceremony