Celebrated as Ganesha’s birthday, Ganesha “Chaturthi” (which literally means the fourth) refers to the fourth day after the new moon of the lunar month Bahdrapada, which usually falls around August-September. For me, this is a day to celebrate the grounding, strengthening qualities of this sweet divine energy, also known as Ganapati or Vinayaka.
The elephant-headed Ganesha is most well-known as that force that removes obstructions in our path. His commitment and steadiness make him the perfect ally in facing the challenges and fears that arise through the course of life. Associated with mula dhara, the root chakra, Ganesha helps build a strong foundation and is traditionally invoked at the beginning of any undertaking. He provides a sense of security and groundedness, yet with a spontaneity that comes of being well-rooted in one’s beliefs and responding to life from that clarity.
In India, it is customary to celebrate this day by taking a clay idol of Ganesha and, with prayers and mantras, cast it into a river. This morning, I went out to Town Lake and held my own Ganesha puja. I prayed for clarity, perseverance, and courage as I continue to find my way to be of service to the great teachings of Ayurveda and Yoga.
May the obstacles in all of our lives vanish as we connect firmly to our root beliefs.
Om ekadantam mahakayam lambodaram gajananam
Vighnanashakaram devam herambam pranamyaham.
“O single-tusked, great-bodied, big-bellied, elephant-faced
Remover of all obstacles and difficulties, I bow to thee.”
Ayurveda in Translation 