5 Things That Lord Ganesha Loves

Thursday, September 6, 2012, 16:16 [IST]

Lord Ganesha is known for his elephant head and his enormous belly. He is one of friendliest Hindu Gods who is bereft of malice and curses. The cute and cuddly image of Ganesha inspires lots of love among his devotees. That is why he is called 'Ganapati', the lord of the people. Ganesh Chatuthi is special festival meant to celebrate the glory of Lord Ganesha and is due in a week's time.

So, let us find out what are the things that Ganesha loves the most to please him on this special day.

1. Modak: First things first, Lord Ganesha is a complete foodie. The love handles and enormous pouches on his body leaves no doubt that Ganesha just loves food. So, the easiest way to Ganapati's heart is through his belly. Modak is a particular kind of sweet that look like dumplings. They are Ganesha's favourite sweets and must be offered to him on Ganesh Chaturthi.

2. Dhruva Grass: This is basically the blades of grass that has 3 branches and grows wild in the fields. There is an interesting story that explains why Ganesha loves Dhruva grass. Ganesha once swallowed an evil demon named Analasura who was tormenting the Gods. But after after swallowing the demon, Lord Ganesha was in immense pain as the evil demon refused to get digested. Some ancient wise sages rained Dhruva grass on him and his stomach cooled. From then on, this grass is a favourite of Ganesha.

3. Marigolds (Genda): Most people who bring the idol of Ganesha home to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi use red and yellow marigolds to decorate. Ganesha loves marigold and he is often seen wearing garlands made of marigolds and Dhruva grass.

4. Conch Shell (Shankh): Ganesha has 4 hands and one of them holds a conch shell. Many Hindu festivals are initiated with the blowing of the conch shells. Ganapati too likes the sound of the conch shells. Many people blow the conch at home while doing Ganesha aarti. The shrill sound is supposed to wade away evil spirits.

5. Fruits Of The Season: Coconuts and bananas are Ganesha's favourite fruits. Ganesha's head is of an elephant and thus has a weakness for bananas and all parts of the plantain. His idols are usually surrounded by banana leaves and also the stem of the banana plain. Some people also offer plantain flowers to Ganesha.

These are 5 of the things that Lord Ganesha adores. Also remember that he is a pure vegetarian and his Wednesday is his day of the week.