Durva Grass for Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 Puja: Importance and Significance of Offering 21 Shoots of Durva to Lord Ganesha
Offering durva grass to Lord Ganesha represents seeking his blessings and removing obstacles. Using durva grass in your prayers to Lord Ganesha is a beautiful way to seek blessings and overcome obstacles in a tradition that goes back centuries.
Durva is a holy grass that's important for Lord Ganesha. The word 'durva' comes from 'duhu,' meaning far away, and 'avam,' meaning closer. Known for its odd-numbered blades, this grass holds a special place in Hindu rituals, especially when worshipping Lord Ganesha. This grass is cherished for its cooling and healing properties, making it an essential element in ceremonial offerings. In fact, offering durva to Lord Ganesha is seen as a way of appeasing Lord Vishnu as well. Ahead of the Ganesh festival, let us tell you the story behind this ritual. Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 Puja Time: Know Tithi, Shubh Muhurat, Significance and More About Lord Ganesha Festival.
The Story Behind Durva
A long time ago, there was a fearsome demon named Analasura who caused chaos in the heavenly realms. He could shoot fire from his eyes, destroying everything. The demi-gods, fearing for their safety, sought Lord Ganesha's help to defeat the demon and restore peace. Lord Ganesha, with his elephant head and kind heart, agreed to help. During the battle, Analasura attacked Lord Ganesha with fire and even tried to swallow him. But Lord Ganesha revealed his true form, called 'virat roop,' and instead of being eaten, he devoured the demon. 'Sukhkarta Dukhharta Varta Vighnachi' Aarti for Ganesh Pujan To Celebrate Ganeshotsav With Family and Friends.
However, after consuming Analasura, Lord Ganesha felt terribly hot inside. To cool him down, the moon settled on his head, earning him the name 'Bhaalachandra.' But the heat didn't go away. Lord Vishnu offered his lotus, and Lord Shiva put his cobra around Ganesha's belly, yet the heat persisted. Finally, some wise sages arrived with 21 leaves of durva grass and placed them on Lord Ganesha's head. Miraculously, the heat vanished. In gratitude, Lord Ganesha proclaimed that anyone who worships him with durva grass would receive his eternal blessings.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Date, History, Significance Of Festival Celebrating The Birth Of Lord Ganesha
Offering durva grass to Lord Ganesha represents seeking his blessings and removing obstacles. Using durva grass in your prayers to Lord Ganesha is a beautiful way to seek blessings and overcome obstacles in a tradition that goes back centuries.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 19, 2023 12:53 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).