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Place the Ganesha idol in the northeast corner of the home—this is considered highly auspicious and full of positive energy. The surroundings of the idol should always be clean

Before the puja begins, the idol is traditionally bathed in water, rosewater, or Panchamrut. This ritual symbolises inviting Lord Ganesha into the home with love and reverence. (AI-generated Image)
As homes across India gear up for Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees are busy decorating pandals, bringing home idols, and preparing sweets for the beloved Lord Ganesha. This festival, dedicated to the remover of obstacles and harbinger of wisdom, is not just about rituals but about inviting positivity and divine blessings into one’s home.
However, priests and traditional experts caution that while devotion matters most, certain rituals and rules carry deep spiritual significance. Observing them properly, they say, ensures that the puja brings peace, prosperity, and fulfillment.
The Importance Of Idol Installation
The installation of the Ganesha idol, known as Pran Pratishtha, marks the beginning of the festivities. According to Priest Girin Sharma, this step should be done thoughtfully, following age-old traditions that align with Vastu and spiritual texts:
Right Direction for Installation: Place the idol in the northeast corner of the home—this direction is considered highly auspicious and full of positive energy.
Direction of Idol’s Face: The idol itself should face north. Scriptures say this ensures blessings flow abundantly into the household.
Rules To Observe During The Puja
Along with installing the idol correctly, there are several other practices to keep in mind during the celebrations:
Avoid Using Broken Idols: If, by chance, the idol breaks, it should not be used for worship. Scriptures consider it inauspicious. A new idol should be installed, or the rituals should be stopped respectfully.
Maintain Cleanliness: The surroundings of the idol should always be clean. A pure environment is believed to attract divine energy and create a serene atmosphere for worship.
Observe Celibacy: Some priests recommend maintaining celibacy during the festival, especially after the idol’s installation, as it is said to enhance the spiritual power of the rituals.
Perform the Holy Bath: Before the puja begins, the idol is traditionally bathed in water, rosewater, or Panchamrut (a sacred mixture of milk, honey, curd, ghee, and sugar). This ritual symbolises inviting Lord Ganesha into the home with love and reverence.
Why These Rules Matter
These are not just rituals passed down blindly—they are meant to create purity of mind, body, and environment during the festival. When devotees follow these practices with sincerity, the celebration transforms into a spiritual experience rather than just a tradition.
Priests stress that Ganesh Chaturthi is more than a festival of colours, sweets, and music. It is an opportunity to align with divine energy, seek blessings, and bring positivity into our lives.
By following these simple yet meaningful rules, devotees can ensure that their Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are spiritually enriching and full of joy.
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
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