Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi: Installation, Worship, and Auspicious Timing

New Delhi, August 27: Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Lord Ganesha. On this day, devotees enthusiastically set up idols of Ganapati Bappa in their homes and pandals. It is believed that Lord Ganesha removes obstacles, and worshiping him helps alleviate life’s troubles. Let’s explore when Ganesh Chaturthi falls this year, the auspicious time for installation, and the correct worship procedure.

According to the Panchang, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on September 14 this year. The Chaturthi Tithi of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha will begin at 7:06 AM on September 14 and end at 7:44 AM on September 15. Based on the Udaya Tithi, the festival will be observed on September 14.

The midday period is considered particularly auspicious for the installation and worship of Ganesha. According to the Delhi Panchang, the favorable time for worship on September 14 will be from 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM. There may be slight variations in timing based on sunrise and local Panchang in different cities.

Before installing the idol, ensure the worship area is thoroughly cleaned. Next, lay a clean cloth on a platform and place the idol of Lord Ganesha on it. After placing the idol, first meditate on Lord Ganesha. Then, take a vow for the worship and offer water, rice, and flowers to the deity. It is especially important to offer roli, sindoor, durva grass, and flowers during the worship. Lighting incense and a lamp is also an essential part of the ritual.

Offering modaks and laddoos to Lord Ganesha is considered auspicious. You can also present fruits and other offerings based on your devotion. During the worship, chant the mantra “Om Gam Ganapataye Namah.” After this, read or listen to the story of Ganesh Chaturthi, and conclude with the Aarti of Lord Ganesha.

The Ganesh festival is celebrated for varying durations by different families and communities. The immersion of the installed Ganapati can occur on the first and a half day, third, fifth, seventh, or tenth day, depending on family traditions. This year, Anant Chaturdashi falls on September 25, which will see large-scale immersion of Ganapati idols.

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