How to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in an ideal manner ?

Anything which is in consonance with the Scriptures proves to be ideal and beneficial. If the Idol of Shri Ganesh is sculpted as per the science of Sculptures, then those worshipping it will benefit. Unfortunately, today Idols are worshipped in various forms and shapes based on one’s liking and imagination without taking into account the science of Sculptures. This results in the denigration of Shri Ganesh.

Hindu festivals are not meant just to be social gatherings, but for faster spiritual progress (to obtain God’s grace). Therefore, one should stop evil tendencies from entering the festival.

One should ensure discipline and sanctity at the venue of worship and the pandal. Workers should be dedicated, service-oriented, those who understand the spiritual meaning of religious rituals as well as the Deities and who can assist in the celebrations with an attitude of service unto Sat (Absolute Truth).

Programmes on social upliftment, rekindling Dharma (Righteousness) and national awakening should be arranged for the benefit of devotees.

• Discourses on spiritual topics such as Dharma, sadhana (Spiritual practice), Guru, disciple, etc.
• Discourses which create awareness amongst the people about corruption, castes, terrorism, regionalism, etc.
• Lectures which create awakening amongst the people about the harmful effects of tobacco & alcohol consumption, AIDS, etc.
• Music and devotional songs : Programmes of folk ballads, classical music and devotional songs of Saints.
• Plays and street plays : Based on patriotism or social problems.
• Quiz programmes on topics related to protection of the Nation & bringing about awakening on Dharma.
• Hindu festivals are not meant to be just social gatherings, but for faster spiritual progress (to obtain God’s grace) !

DO’S & DONT’S

1. House and decoration (DO’S)

A. Give importance to Shri Ganesh first, then to decoration in the house, Pandal, etc.

B. Have cleanliness, sattvik decoration, and everyone collectively preparing for puja with devotion

DONT’S

A. Expensive lighting, decoration and frame made of thermocol in the house, Pandal, etc.

B. Watching entertainment programmes on TV

C. Listening to unnecessary songs during the preparations of puja

2. Making of the Idol (DO’S)

A. Made of clay and painted with natural colours

B. Seated on a platform

C. Made according to the science of Sculptures

DONT’S

A. Make Idols of ‘Plaster of Paris’ and huge in size

B. In strange attire (For example – soldier, Saint, etc.)

C. Made from items such as coconuts, bananas, utensils, etc.

3. Religious rituals (DO’S)

A. Preparation after purification to maintain sanctity

B. Everyone should remain present and experience Chaitanya from the rituals

4. Arati (DO’S)

A. Should be selective and sung with devotion

B. Should be followed by praying and chanting

5. Prasad (Holy sacrament) (DO’S)

A. Chanting while preparing Prasad

B. Taking Prasad in a queue peacefully

6. Procession (DO’S)

Be disciplined, while chanting and conclude on time

7. Immersion of Idols (DO’S)

According to spirtitual science, immersion should be in flowing water