May 1 Marks Vinayak Chaturthi, Know How To Please Lord Ganesha On This Day

Vaishakh Month: The Chaturthi that falls in the Shukla Paksha of every month is known as Vinayaki or Vinayak Chaturthi. 'Vinayak' refers to Lord Ganesha, the first deity to be worshipped. It is clear that this day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Worshipping and offering prayers to Ganapati on this day is considered highly beneficial.

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When Will Vinayak Chaturthi Be Celebrated?

According to the Panchang, Vinayak Chaturthi will begin on April 30, 2025, at 2:12 PM and end on May 1, 2025, at 11:23 AM. As per the Udaya Tithi, the festival will be observed on Thursday, May 1, 2025. The Drik Panchang highlights the significance of this day, stating that Vinayak Chaturthi is also known as Varad Vinayak Chaturthi. The term 'Varad' refers to the blessings granted by the deity for the fulfillment of one’s desires. Devotees who observe the Vinayak Chaturthi fast are blessed by Lord Ganesha with wisdom and patience—two virtues that have held immense value for humanity through the ages. A person who possesses these qualities progresses in life and achieves their desired goals.

What Is The Auspicious Time For Ganesh Puja?

According to the Hindu calendar, Ganesh Puja on Vinayak Chaturthi is performed during the midday hours, Madhyahna kaal, which is considered the most auspicious time for worship. Worshipping Lord Ganesha during this period is believed to bring happiness, prosperity, wealth, and also grants wisdom and intelligence. As per the scriptures, the Chaturthi in the Shukla Paksha is called Vinayaki Chaturthi, while the one in Krishna Paksha is known as Sankashti Chaturthi.

On the day of Vinayaki Chaturthi fast, devotees should wake up during Brahma Muhurat, complete their daily rituals, bathe, and wear red clothes. During the midday puja, a Ganesha idol made of gold, silver, brass, copper, clay, or any other suitable material should be installed according to one’s capacity, and a vow should be taken. Then, Lord Ganesha should be worshiped with the complete 16-step ritual (Shodashopachara Puja) followed by the Aarti. Afterward, apply sindoor on the idol and offer 21 blades of Durva grass while chanting Ganesha's favorite mantra: "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah."

What Offerings Should Be Made To Lord Ganesha?

After the puja, it is considered most auspicious to offer boondi laddoos to Lord Ganesha. Out of these, five laddoos are given in charity to Brahmins, and five are placed at the feet of the deity; the remaining are distributed as prasad. During the worship, devotees should recite Shri Ganesh Stotra, Atharvashirsha, and Sankat Nashak Ganesh Stotra.

In the evening, it is recommended to listen to the Ganesh Chaturthi story, chant Ganesh Stuti, Shri Ganesh Sahasranamavali, and Ganesh Chalisa. Performing aarti and chanting the “Om Ganeshaya Namah” mantra with devotion is believed to fulfill one’s wishes.

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