Ganesha Chaturthi Puja Vidhi 2026: Complete Shodashopachara Ganesh Puja Procedure, Mantras, Samagri, Muhurat and Visarjan
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja Vidhi is one of the most important Hindu worship procedures dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Ganeshotsav and Ganesh Chauth, the festival is traditionally observed during Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of the Bhadrapada month.
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja is performed with devotion, traditional offerings and prescribed mantras. A detailed Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja consists of sixteen principal forms of worship, preceded by preparatory rituals such as Deep Prajwalana and Sankalpa and, where appropriate, Ganesha Avahana and Pratishthapana.
For devotees planning Ganesh Chaturthi Puja at home, Ganapati Sthapana, Ganesh Puja with a Pandit, or traditional Ganesh Visarjan, this guide explains the complete procedure in a practical step-by-step format.
Panditji on Way helps devotees arrange an authentic Hindu Puja from the initial booking process through the final stage of the ritual, including consultation and Pandit Ji booking for Ganesh Chaturthi Puja.
Ganesha Chaturthi 2026 Date and Puja Muhurat
In 2026, Ganesha Chaturthi will be observed on Monday, 14 September 2026. The exact Madhyahna Puja Muhurat varies according to location because Hindu Panchang calculations are location-specific.
For example, the published 2026 Panchang timings include approximately 11:20 AM to 1:48 PM for Mumbai and 11:16 AM to 1:44 PM for Pune. Therefore, devotees should check the Panchang for their exact city before beginning Ganapati Sthapana and Puja.
Maharashtra’s 2026 public holiday list also identifies Ganesh Chaturthi on 14 September 2026.
| Ganesha Chaturthi 2026 | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival | Ganesha Chaturthi / Vinayaka Chaturthi |
| Date | Monday, 14 September 2026 |
| Hindu Month | Bhadrapada |
| Tithi | Shukla Paksha Chaturthi |
| Preferred Puja Period | Madhyahna |
| Mumbai Puja Muhurat | Approximately 11:20 AM–1:48 PM |
| Pune Puja Muhurat | Approximately 11:16 AM–1:44 PM |
| Visarjan / Anant Chaturdashi | Friday, 25 September 2026 |
| Important Note | Exact timings should be checked for the devotee’s city |
What Is Ganesha Chaturthi Puja?
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja is the ceremonial worship of Lord Ganesha, the revered elephant-headed deity associated with wisdom, auspicious beginnings, intellect and the removal of obstacles.
The festival is widely celebrated across India, with particularly prominent public and household celebrations in Maharashtra. The Ministry of Culture has also documented the Ganesh Festival of Maharashtra as part of India’s cultural traditions.
The central worship performed on Ganesha Chaturthi is often known as Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja, meaning worship offered through sixteen traditional upacharas or services.
These services symbolically treat the deity as an honoured divine guest.
What Is Shodashopachara Puja?
Shodashopachara Puja means a system of worship involving sixteen traditional offerings or services to the deity.
The sixteen principal stages can be summarized as:
| No. | Puja Upachara | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asana | Offering a seat |
| 2 | Padya | Offering water for the feet |
| 3 | Arghya | Offering ceremonial water |
| 4 | Achamana | Offering water for purification |
| 5 | Snana | Sacred bathing |
| 6 | Vastra | Offering clothes |
| 7 | Yajnopavita | Offering sacred thread |
| 8 | Gandha | Offering sandalwood/fragrance |
| 9 | Akshata | Offering unbroken rice |
| 10 | Pushpa | Offering flowers |
| 11 | Dhupa | Offering incense |
| 12 | Dipa | Offering lamp |
| 13 | Naivedya | Offering food |
| 14 | Tambula | Offering betel preparation |
| 15 | Dakshina | Offering monetary or material dakshina |
| 16 | Nirajana | Offering ceremonial light/aarti |
Different traditions and Puja paddhatis may arrange or subdivide these services differently. In a detailed Ganesh Chaturthi Puja, additional bathing, floral and concluding rituals are commonly included.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Before the Sixteen Upacharas
Before beginning the principal Puja, the devotee should prepare the Puja place, arrange the required samagri and perform preliminary rituals.
The commonly performed preliminary steps include:
- Puja place purification
- Deep Prajwalana
- Sankalpa
- Ganapati Avahana
- Ganapati Pratishthapana
The exact sequence may vary according to family tradition, regional practice and the Pandit Ji’s Puja paddhati.
Deep Prajwalana
The Puja begins with lighting a clean and suitable Puja lamp.
The lamp represents divine light, purity and the removal of darkness. It is generally placed near the Puja altar before the main worship begins.
Sankalpa for Ganesha Chaturthi Puja
Sankalpa is the formal statement of intention before beginning the Puja.
During Sankalpa, the devotee traditionally states the purpose of the worship along with relevant details such as location, date, family identity and the desired spiritual purpose.
For a formal Ganesha Chaturthi Puja, the Pandit Ji may formulate the Sankalpa according to the appropriate Panchang and family tradition.
1. Avahanam and Pratishthapanam
Avahanam
Avahana means invoking Lord Ganesha and respectfully inviting the deity to be present for the Puja.
The following traditional Ganesha Avahana Mantra may be recited:
हे हेरम्ब! त्वमेह्येहि ह्यम्बिकात्र्यम्बकात्मज।
सिद्धिबुद्धिपते त्र्यक्ष लक्षलाभपितुः पितः॥
नागास्यं नागहारं त्वां गणराजं चतुर्भुजम्।
भूषितं स्वायुधैर्दिव्यैः पाशाङ्कुशपरस्वधैः॥He Heramba Tvamehyehi Hyambikatryambakatmaja।
Siddhibuddhipate Tryaksha Lakshalabhapituh Pitah॥
Nagasyam Nagaharam Tvam Ganarajam Chaturbhujam।
Bhushitam Svayudhairdivyaih Pashankushaparashvadhaih॥
The invocation is performed before the Ganesha Murti with devotion and appropriate Avahana Mudra.
Pratishthapanam
After Avahana, the newly installed Ganesha Murti is ceremonially established for worship.
Ganesha Pratishthapana Mantra:
अस्यै प्राणाः प्रतिष्ठन्तु अस्यै प्राणा क्षरन्तु च।
अस्यै देवत्वमर्चायै मामहेति च कश्चन॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
सुप्रतिष्ठो वरदो भव॥Asyai Pranah Pratishthantu Asyai Prana Ksharantu Cha।
Asyai Devatvamarchayai Mamaheti Cha Kashchana॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Supratishtho Varado Bhava॥
Important note about an already installed Ganesha Murti
If a Ganesha Murti is permanently installed in a home and worshipped regularly, Avahana and Pratishthapana may not be performed in the same manner as they are for a newly installed festival idol.
Similarly, a permanently installed deity is not ordinarily treated exactly like a temporary festival idol for Visarjan. The concluding ritual may instead involve an appropriate Utthapana according to the family’s tradition.
For this reason, devotees should follow their family Puja tradition or the instructions of a qualified Pandit Ji.
2. Asana-Samarpanam
In Asana Samarpana, a symbolic seat is offered to Lord Ganesha.
Mantra:
विचित्ररत्नखचितं दिव्यास्तरणसंयुतम्।
स्वर्णसिंहासनं चारु गृहाण गुहाग्रज॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
आसनं समर्पयामि॥Vichitraratnakhachitam Divyastaranasamyutam।
Swarnasimhasanam Charu Grihana Guhagraja॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Asanam Samarpayami॥
Flowers may be respectfully offered before the Murti as part of the symbolic Asana offering.
3. Padya-Samarpanam
Padya is the ceremonial offering of water for washing the deity’s feet.
Mantra:
ॐ सर्वतीर्थसमुद्भूतं पाद्यं गन्धादिभिर्युतम्।
गजानन गृहाणेदं भगवान् भक्तवत्सलः॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
पादयोः पाद्यं समर्पयामि॥Om Sarvatirthasamudbhutam Padyam Gandhadibhiryutam।
Gajanana Grihanedam Bhagawan Bhaktavatsalah॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Padayoh Padyam Samarpayami॥
4. Arghya-Samarpanam
Arghya is a ceremonial offering of water, traditionally prepared with auspicious ingredients.
Mantra:
ॐ गणाध्यक्ष नमस्तेऽस्तु गृहाण करुणाकर।
अर्घ्यं च फलसंयुक्तं गन्धमाल्याक्षतैर्युतम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
हस्तयोरर्घ्यं समर्पयामि॥Om Ganadhyaksha Namasteastu Grihana Karunakara।
Arghyam Cha Phalasamyuktam Gandhamalyakshatairyutam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Hastayorarghyam Samarpayami॥
5. Achamanam
Achamana is a ceremonial offering of water.
Mantra:
विघ्नराज नमस्तुभ्यं त्रिदशैरभिवन्दित।
गङ्गोदकेन देवेश कुरुष्वाचमनं प्रभो॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
मुखे आचमनीयं समर्पयामि॥Vighnaraja Namastubhyam Tridashairabhivandita।
Gangodakena Devesha Kurushwachamanam Prabho॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Mukhe Achamaniyam Samarpayami॥
6. Snana Mantra and Abhisheka
The bathing portion of Ganesha Puja can contain several offerings. In a detailed Shodashopachara or Ganapati Puja paddhati, these may include ordinary sacred water, Panchamrita and other ritual bathing substances.
Snanam
मन्दाकिन्यास्तु यद्वारि सर्वपापहरं शुभम्।
तदिदं कल्पितं देव स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
सर्वाङ्गस्नानं समर्पयामि॥Mandakinyastu Yadvari Sarvapapaharam Shubham।
Tadidam Kalpitam Deva Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Sarvanga-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Panchamrita-Snanam
Panchamrita traditionally consists of five substances:
- Milk
- Curd
- Ghee
- Honey
- Sugar
Mantra:
पञ्चामृतं मयाऽऽनीतं पयो दधि घृतं मधु।
शर्करा च समायुक्तं स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
पञ्चामृत-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Panchamritam Mayaanitam Payo Dadhi Ghritam Madhu।
Sharkara Cha Samayuktam Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Panchamrita-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Payah / Dugdha-Snanam
Milk is offered as part of the detailed bathing ritual.
कामधेनुसमुद्भूतं सर्वेषां जीवनं परम्।
तेजः पुष्टिकरं दिव्यं स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
पयः-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Kamadhenusamudbhutam Sarvesham Jivanam Param।
Tejah Pushtikaram Divyam Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Payah-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Dadhi-Snanam
Curd is offered during the traditional bathing sequence.
पयसस्तु समुद्भूतं मधुराम्लं शशिप्रभम्।
दध्यानीतं मया देव स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
दधि-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Payasastu Samudbhutam Madhuramlam Shashiprabham।
Dadhyanitam Maya Deva Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Dadhi-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Ghrita-Snanam
Ghee is offered according to the detailed Puja paddhati.
नवनीत-समुत्पन्नं सर्वसंतोषकारकम्।
घृतं तुभ्यं प्रदास्यामि स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
घृत-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Navanita-Samutpannam Sarvasantoshakarakam।
Ghritam Tubhyam Pradasyami Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Ghrita-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Madhu-Snanam
Honey is offered as another traditional bathing substance.
पुष्परेणुसमुद्भूतं सुस्वादु मधुरं मधु।
तेजः पुष्टिकरं दिव्यं स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
मधु-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Pushparenusamudbhutam Suswadu Madhuram Madhu।
Tejah Pushtikaram Divyam Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Madhu-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Sharkara-Snanam
Sugar is included in the traditional Panchamrita-related bathing sequence.
इक्षुरससमुद्भूतां शर्करां पुष्टिदां शुभाम्।
मलापहारिकां दिव्यां स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
शर्करा-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Ikshurasasamudbhutam Sharkaram Pushtidam Shubham।
Malapaharikam Divyam Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Sharkara-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Suvasita-Snanam
A fragrant oil or suitable scented preparation may be offered according to the Puja tradition.
चम्पाकाशेकबकुल-मालती-मोगरादिभिः।
वासितं स्निग्धताहेतुर्तैलं चारु प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
सुवासित-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Champakashekabakula-Malati-Mogaradibhih।
Vasitam Snigdhataheturtailam Charu Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Suvasita-Snanam Samarpayami॥
Shuddhodaka-Snanam
The bathing sequence concludes with pure water.
गङ्गा च यमुना चैव गोदावरी सरस्वती।
नर्मदा-सिन्धु-कावेरी स्नानार्थं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
शुद्धोदक-स्नानं समर्पयामि॥Ganga Cha Yamuna Chaiva Godavari Saraswati।
Narmada-Sindhu-Kaveri Snanartham Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Shuddhodaka-Snanam Samarpayami॥
7. Vastra-Samarpanam and Uttariya-Samarpanam
After the ceremonial bath, clean clothes are offered to Lord Ganesha.
Vastra-Samarpanam
शीतवातोष्णसन्त्राणं लज्जाया रक्षणं परम्।
देहालङ्करणं वस्त्रमतः शान्तिं प्रयच्छ मे॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
वस्त्रं समर्पयामि॥Shitavatoshnasantranam Lajjaya Rakshanam Param।
Dehalankaranam Vastramatah Shantim Prayachchha Me॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Vastram Samarpayami॥
Uttariya-Samarpanam
उत्तरीयं तथा देव नानाचित्रितमुत्तमम्।
गृहाणेदं मया भक्त्या दत्तं तत् सफलीकुरु॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
उत्तरीयं समर्पयामि॥Uttariyam Tatha Deva Nanachitritamuttamam।
Grihanedam Maya Bhaktya Dattam Tat Saphalikuru॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Uttariyam Samarpayami॥
8. Yajnopavita-Samarpanam
The sacred thread is offered respectfully.
नवभिस्तन्तुभिर्युक्तं त्रिगुणं देवतामयम्।
उपवीतं मया दत्तं गृहाण परमेश्वर॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
यज्ञोपवीतं समर्पयामि॥Navabhistantubhiryuktam Trigunam Devatamayam।
Upavitam Maya Dattam Grihana Parameshwara॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Yajnopavitam Samarpayami॥
9. Gandhah
Sandalwood paste or suitable traditional fragrance is offered to Lord Ganesha.
श्रीखण्डं चन्दनं दिव्यं गन्धाढ्यं सुमनोहरम्।
विलेपणं सुरश्रेष्ठ चन्दनं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
गन्धं समर्पयामि॥Shrikhandam Chandanam Divyam Gandhadhyam Sumanoharam।
Vilepanam Surashreshtha Chandanam Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Gandham Samarpayami॥
10. Akshatah
Akshata means unbroken rice grains. They are traditionally offered as an auspicious Puja item.
अक्षताश्च सुरश्रेष्ठ कुङ्कुमाक्ताः सुशोभिताः।
मया निवेदिता भक्त्या गृहाण परमेश्वर॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
अक्षतान् समर्पयामि॥Akshatashcha Surashreshtha Kumkumaktah Sushobhitah।
Maya Nivedita Bhaktya Grihana Parameshwara॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Akshatan Samarpayami॥
11. Pushpa Mala, Shami Patra, Durvankura and Sindoor
Flowers, Durva, Shami leaves and Sindoor have an important place in many Ganesha worship traditions.
Pushpa-Mala
माल्यादीनि सुगन्धीनि माल्यत्यादीनि वै प्रभो।
मयाहृतानि पुष्पाणि गृह्यन्तां पूजनाय भोः॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
पुष्पमालां समर्पयामि॥Malyadini Sugandhini Malyatyadini Vai Prabho।
Mayahritani Pushpani Grihyantam Pujanaya Bhoh॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Pushpamalam Samarpayami॥
Shami-Patram
त्वत्प्रियाणि सुपुष्पाणि कोमलानि शुभानि वै।
शमीदलानि हेरम्ब गृहाण गणनायक॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
शमी-पत्राणि समर्पयामि॥Tvatpriyani Supushpani Komalani Shubhani Vai।
Shamidalani Heramba Grihana Gananayaka॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Shami-Patrani Samarpayami॥
Durvankurah
Durva is one of the best-known traditional offerings associated with Lord Ganesha.
Traditionally, fresh green Durva with an appropriate number of leaflets is offered according to the Puja tradition.
दूर्वाङ्कुरान् सुहरितानमृतान् मङ्गलप्रदान्।
आनीतांस्तव पूजार्थं गृहाण गणनायक॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
दूर्वाङ्कुरान् समर्पयामि॥Durvankuran Suharitanamritan Mangalapradan।
Anitanstava Pujartham Grihana Gananayaka॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Durvankuran Samarpayami॥
Sinduram
Sindoor is traditionally offered to Lord Ganesha as part of the worship.
सिन्दूरं शोभनं रक्तं सौभाग्यं सुखवर्धनम्।
शुभदं कामदं चैव सिन्दूरं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
सिन्दूरं समर्पयामि॥Sinduram Shobhanam Raktam Saubhagyam Sukhavardhanam।
Shubhadam Kamadam Chaiva Sinduram Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Sinduram Samarpayami॥
12. Dhupah
Incense is offered as part of the traditional worship.
वनस्पतिरसोद्भूतो गन्धाढ्यो गन्ध उत्तमः।
आघ्रेयः सर्वदेवानां धूपोऽयं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
धूपमाघ्रापयामि॥Vanaspatirasodbhuto Gandhadhyo Gandha Uttamah।
Aghreyah Sarvadevanam Dhupoayam Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Dhupamaghrapayami॥
13. Dipa-Samarpana
The Puja lamp is offered before Lord Ganesha.
साज्यं त्रिवर्तिसंयुक्तं वह्निना योजितं मया।
दीपं गृहाण देवेश त्रैलोक्यतिमिरापहम्॥
भक्त्या दीपं प्रयच्छामि देवाय परमात्मने।
त्राहि मां नरकाद्घोराद्दीपज्योतिर्नमोऽस्तुते॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
दीपं दर्शयामि॥Sajyam Trivartisamyuktam Vahnina Yojitam Maya।
Dipam Grihana Devesha Trailokyatimirapaham॥Bhaktya Dipam Prayachchhami Devaya Paramatmane।
Trahi Mam Narakadghoraddipajyotirnamoastute॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Dipam Darshayami॥
14. Naivedya-Samarpanam and Karodvartana
Naivedya is the food offering made to Lord Ganesha.
For Ganesh Chaturthi, Modak is particularly associated with Ganesha worship and is commonly included among the offerings.
Naivedya-Nivedanam
नैवेद्यं गृह्यतां देव भक्तिं मे ह्यचलां कुरु।
ईप्सितं मे वरं देहि परत्र च परां गतिम्॥
शर्करा-खण्ड-खाद्यानि दधि-क्षीर-घृतानि च।
आहारं भक्ष्यभोज्यं च नैवेद्यं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
नैवेद्यं मोदकमयऋतुफलानि च समर्पयामि॥Naivedyam Grihyatam Deva Bhaktim Me Hyachalam Kuru।
Ipsitam Me Varam Dehi Paratra Cha Param Gatim॥Sharkara-Khanda-Khadyani Dadhi-Kshira-Ghritani Cha।
Aharam Bhakshya-Bhojyam Cha Naivedyam Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Naivedyam Modakamayarituphalani Cha Samarpayami॥
Chandana-Karodvartanam
After Naivedya, sandalwood preparation may be offered as part of the traditional sequence.
चन्दनं मलयोद्भूतं कस्तूर्यादि-समन्वितम्।
करोद्वर्तनकं देव गृहाण परमेश्वर॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
चन्दनेन करोद्वर्तनं समर्पयामि॥Chandanam Malayodbhutam Kasturyadi-Samanvitam।
Karodvartanakam Deva Grihana Parameshwara॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Chandanena Karodvartanam Samarpayami॥
15. Tambula, Narikela and Dakshina Samarpanam
Tambula-Samarpanam
Tambula traditionally consists of betel leaf and areca nut, along with other appropriate ingredients according to the Puja tradition.
ॐ पूगीफलं महद्दिव्यं नागवल्लीदलैर्युतम्।
एलाचूर्णादिसंयुक्तं ताम्बूलं प्रतिगृह्यताम्॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
मुख-वासार्थम्-एला-पूगी-फलादि-सहितं ताम्बूलं समर्पयामि॥Om Pugiphalam Mahaddivyam Nagavallidalairyutam।
Elachurnadisamyuktam Tambulam Pratigrihyatam॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Mukha-Vasartham-Ela-Pugi-Phaladi-Sahitam Tambulam Samarpayami॥
Narikela-Samarpanam
Coconut is offered as an auspicious fruit.
इदं फलं मया देव स्थापितं पुरतस्तव।
तेन मे सफलावाप्तिर्भवेज्जन्मनि जन्मनि॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
नारिकेल-फलं समर्पयामि॥Idam Phalam Maya Deva Sthapitam Puratastava।
Tena Me Saphalavaptirbhavejjanmani Janmani॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Narikela-Phalam Samarpayami॥
Dakshina-Samarpanam
Dakshina is traditionally offered to the Pandit Ji or as part of the Puja offering according to the worship tradition.
हिरण्यगर्भगर्भस्थं हेमबीजं विभावसोः।
अनन्तपुण्यफलदमतः शान्तिं प्रयच्छ मे॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
द्रव्य-दक्षिणां समर्पयामि॥Hiranyagarbhagarbhastham Hemabijam Vibhavasoh।
Anantapunyaphaladamatah Shantim Prayachchha Me॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Dravya-Dakshinam Samarpayami॥
16. Nirajanam and Visarjanam
The concluding stage includes Aarti/Nirajana, Pushpanjali, Pradakshina and, where applicable, Visarjana.
Nirajana / Ganesha Aarti
कदलीगर्भसम्भूतं कर्पूरं तु प्रदीपितम्।
आरार्तिक्यमहं कुर्वे पश्य मे वरदो भव॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
कर्पूर-नीराजनं समर्पयामि॥Kadaligarbhasambhutam Karpuram Tu Pradipitam।
Arartikyamaham Kurve Pashya Me Varado Bhava॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Karpura-Nirajanam Samarpayami॥
After this, devotees may perform the traditional Ganesha Aarti according to their regional and family tradition.
Pushpanjali-Arpanam
Flowers are offered with devotion at the conclusion of the principal worship.
नानासुगन्धि-पुष्पाणि यथा कालोद्भवानि च।
पुष्पाञ्जलिं मया दत्तां गृहाण परमेश्वर॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
मन्त्र-पुष्पाञ्जलिं समर्पयामि॥Nanasugandhi-Pushpani Yatha Kalodbhavani Cha।
Pushpanjalim Maya Dattam Grihana Parameshwara॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Mantra-Pushpanjalim Samarpayami॥
Pradakshina
Devotees may perform symbolic or physical Pradakshina around the deity according to the available space and Puja tradition.
यानि कानि च पापानि ज्ञाताज्ञातकृतानि च।
तानि सर्वाणि नश्यन्ति प्रदक्षिणां पदे पदे॥ॐ सिद्धि-बुद्धि-सहिताय श्रीमहागणाधिपतये नमः।
प्रदक्षिणां समर्पयामि॥Yani Kani Cha Papani Jnatajnatakritani Cha।
Tani Sarvani Nashyanti Pradakshinam Pade Pade॥Om Siddhi-Buddhi-Sahitaya Shri Mahaganadhipataye Namah।
Pradakshinam Samarpayami॥
Ganesh Visarjan Puja and Mantra
For a temporary Ganesha idol installed for Ganesh Chaturthi, the festival concludes with Ganesha Visarjan on the chosen day according to family, community and Panchang tradition.
The traditional conclusion includes seeking forgiveness for any mistakes in the worship.
आवाहनं न जानामि न जानामि तवार्चनम्।
पूजां चैव न जानामि क्षमस्व गणेश्वर॥अन्यथा शरणं नास्ति त्वमेव शरणं मम।
तस्मात्कारुण्यभावेन रक्षस्व विघ्नेश्वर॥गतं पापं गतं दुःखं गतं दारिद्र्यमेव च।
आगता सुखसम्पत्तिः पुण्याच्च तव दर्शनात्॥मन्त्रहीनं क्रियाहीनं भक्तिहीनं सुरेश्वर।
यत्पूजितं मया देव परिपूर्णं तदस्तु मे॥यदक्षरपदभ्रष्टं मात्राहीनं च यद्भवेत्।
तत्सर्वं क्षम्यतां देव प्रसीद परमेश्वर॥Avahanam Na Janami Na Janami Tavarchanam।
Pujam Chaiva Na Janami Kshamasva Ganeshwara॥Anyatha Sharanam Nasti Tvameva Sharanam Mama।
Tasmatkarunyabhavena Rakshasva Vighneshwara॥Gatam Papam Gatam Duhkham Gatam Daridryameva Cha।
Agata Sukhasampattih Punyachcha Tava Darshanat॥Mantrahinam Kriyahinam Bhaktihinam Sureshwara।
Yatpujitam Maya Deva Paripurnam Tadastu Me॥Yadaksharapadabhrashtam Matrahinam Cha Yadbhavet।
Tatsarvam Kshamyatam Deva Prasida Parameshwara॥
After the concluding prayers, the temporary idol may be taken respectfully for Visarjan according to local rules and environmental guidelines.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Samagri List
A complete Ganesha Chaturthi Puja may require different materials depending on the chosen Puja paddhati.
| Category | Common Puja Samagri |
|---|---|
| Ganesha | Ganesha Murti |
| Puja setup | Chowki, clean cloth, Kalash |
| Water | Clean water, Gangajal where traditionally used |
| Panchamrita | Milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar |
| Clothing | Vastra, Uttariya, Moli |
| Fragrance | Chandan, Gandha |
| Grains | Akshata, rice |
| Flowers | Fresh flowers and garland |
| Sacred leaves | Durva, Shami Patra |
| Tilak | Sindoor, Chandan |
| Light | Diya, ghee/oil, cotton wicks |
| Incense | Dhupa |
| Food | Modak, fruits, sweets and Naivedya |
| Offerings | Coconut, Tambula |
| Puja conclusion | Camphor, Aarti items |
| Dakshina | As appropriate |
| Visarjan | Suitable vessel/water body and locally permitted arrangements |
The exact list should be confirmed with the Pandit Ji because regional traditions can require additional materials.
Why Is Durva Offered to Lord Ganesha?
Durva is one of the most recognizable offerings associated with Lord Ganesha.
It is traditionally offered during Ganapati Puja in fresh green form. Many household Puja traditions specifically prepare Durva bundles before beginning the worship.
For devotees following a particular family or regional tradition, the Pandit Ji may advise the appropriate quantity and manner of offering.
Why Are Modaks Offered to Lord Ganesha?
Modak is strongly associated with Lord Ganesha and is one of the most popular Naivedya items during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Modaks may be prepared in different regional styles, including steamed and fried varieties. During Ganeshotsav, devotees commonly prepare or purchase Modaks specifically as an offering to Ganapati.
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja at Home: Simple Checklist
Before beginning the Puja, keep the following checklist ready:
- Clean the Puja area.
- Place the Ganesha Murti respectfully.
- Arrange the Puja Samagri.
- Keep Panchamrita ingredients ready.
- Keep fresh flowers and Durva ready.
- Prepare Modak and Naivedya.
- Keep diya, incense and camphor ready.
- Keep clean clothes or suitable Vastra ready.
- Keep coconut and other fruits ready.
- Arrange Dakshina.
- Keep the Puja Mantra/Paddhati accessible.
- Confirm the city’s Ganesh Chaturthi Muhurat.
- Perform Sankalpa.
- Perform the prescribed Puja.
- Perform Aarti.
- Follow the appropriate conclusion and Visarjan procedure.
Can Ganesha Chaturthi Puja Be Performed Without a Pandit?
Yes, many families perform household Ganesha Puja themselves according to their family tradition.
However, a full Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja with Sanskrit mantras, Sankalpa, Pratishthapana, detailed Abhisheka and concluding rituals can be extensive.
Families who want a formal traditional Puja may choose to invite a qualified Pandit Ji.
Panditji on Way provides an online platform through which devotees can arrange Pandit Ji services and plan traditional Hindu Puja according to their requirements.
Book Ganesha Chaturthi Puja with Panditji on Way
Preparing every item, understanding every Mantra and following the complete Puja sequence can be difficult for families celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi at home.
Panditji on Way is designed to make the process simpler, from selecting the required Puja service and completing the booking process to arranging a Pandit Ji and conducting the traditional Puja.
The service can be particularly useful for devotees searching for:
- Ganesha Chaturthi Puja at home
- Ganapati Sthapana Puja
- Ganesh Puja with Pandit Ji
- Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja
- Ganesh Visarjan Puja
- Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Samagri
- Traditional Hindu Puja services
- Online Pandit booking
Book Ganesh Chaturthi Puja with Panditji on Way
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Services in Major Indian Cities
The search intent for Ganesh Puja is highly local. A strong local SEO strategy should create genuinely useful city pages rather than simply repeating city names.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Mumbai
Mumbai is one of India’s most prominent centres for Ganeshotsav. Families and communities across Mumbai celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with household and public Ganapati celebrations.
Suggested local page:
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Mumbai – Book a Pandit Ji for Ganapati Sthapana and Puja
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Pune
Pune has a long-standing Ganeshotsav tradition and is another major location for Ganapati worship.
Suggested local page:
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Pune – Traditional Ganapati Puja at Home
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Delhi NCR
Devotees in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad can search for Ganesh Puja services according to their local Panchang timings.
Suggested pages:
- Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Delhi
- Ganesh Puja in Noida
- Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Gurugram
- Ganesh Puja in Ghaziabad
- Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Faridabad
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Jaipur
Families in Jaipur can arrange Ganapati Puja according to the local Panchang and their family tradition.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Ahmedabad
Ganesh Chaturthi is also celebrated across Gujarat, with devotees observing household and community worship.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Bengaluru
Families in Bengaluru can arrange traditional Ganapati Puja at home while following local Panchang timings.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Hyderabad
Devotees in Hyderabad can perform Ganesh Chaturthi Puja with traditional offerings and local Muhurat.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Chennai
Families in Chennai can arrange Ganapati Puja according to their regional and family traditions.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja in Kolkata
Devotees in Kolkata can follow the appropriate local Panchang and arrange a traditional Ganapati Puja.
Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Muhurat by City
Because Hindu festival timings depend on geographic location, the page should provide city-specific information.
| City | 2026 Ganesh Chaturthi | Approx. Madhyahna Muhurat |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 14 September 2026 | 11:20 AM–1:48 PM |
| Pune | 14 September 2026 | 11:16 AM–1:44 PM |
| New Delhi | 14 September 2026 | 11:02 AM–1:31 PM |
| Jaipur | 14 September 2026 | 11:08 AM–1:36 PM |
| Hyderabad | 14 September 2026 | 10:58 AM–1:25 PM |
| Bengaluru | 14 September 2026 | 11:02 AM–1:28 PM |
| Ahmedabad | 14 September 2026 | 11:21 AM–1:49 PM |
| Chennai | 14 September 2026 | 10:51 AM–1:18 PM |
| Kolkata | 14 September 2026 | 10:18 AM–12:46 PM |
| Noida | 14 September 2026 | 11:02 AM–1:30 PM |
These timings should be presented as reference timings and verified for the exact location before publishing or using them for a live Puja booking.
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja: Traditional Ritual Flow
For quick understanding, the complete worship can be summarized as:
Preparation → Deep Prajwalana → Sankalpa → Avahana → Pratishthapana → Asana → Padya → Arghya → Achamana → Snana → Panchamrita Snana → Shuddhodaka Snana → Vastra → Uttariya → Yajnopavita → Gandha → Akshata → Pushpa → Shami → Durva → Sindoor → Dhupa → Dipa → Naivedya → Karodvartana → Tambula → Coconut → Dakshina → Aarti → Pushpanjali → Pradakshina → Visarjan
Frequently Asked Questions About Ganesha Chaturthi Puja
1. When is Ganesha Chaturthi in 2026?
Ganesha Chaturthi will be celebrated on Monday, 14 September 2026. The exact Puja Muhurat varies by city.
2. What is the best time for Ganesha Chaturthi Puja?
The Madhyahna period is traditionally preferred for Ganapati Puja on Ganesha Chaturthi. The exact Muhurat should be calculated according to the local Panchang.
3. What is Shodashopachara Ganapati Puja?
Shodashopachara is a traditional system of worship involving sixteen principal services or offerings to the deity.
4. Which offerings are important for Lord Ganesha?
Commonly associated offerings include Durva, flowers, Sindoor, Modak, fruits, coconut, Chandan, incense and a sacred lamp.
5. Can I perform Ganesh Chaturthi Puja at home?
Yes. Families can perform household Ganapati Puja according to their family tradition. A Pandit Ji can be invited when a formal Vedic or Pauranik Puja procedure is desired.
6. Is Avahana required for an already installed Ganesha idol?
The procedure can differ. A permanently installed deity is generally treated differently from a temporary festival idol. Families should follow their established Puja tradition or consult a qualified Pandit Ji.
7. What is offered during Panchamrita Snana?
Panchamrita traditionally consists of milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar.
8. Why is Durva offered to Ganesha?
Durva is a traditional and highly recognizable offering in Ganapati worship and is included in many Ganesha Puja traditions.
9. Which sweet is traditionally associated with Ganesha?
Modak is traditionally associated with Lord Ganesha and is widely prepared as Naivedya during Ganesh Chaturthi.
10. When is Ganesh Visarjan in 2026?
The 2026 Panchang reference indicates Friday, 25 September 2026, corresponding to Anant Chaturdashi. Devotees may also perform Visarjan earlier according to their family’s chosen tradition.
11. Is Ganesh Visarjan compulsory on Anant Chaturdashi?
Not necessarily. The duration of the installation can vary according to family and regional tradition. Some devotees perform Visarjan after one and a half, three, five, seven or ten days.
12. What should be done after Ganesha Puja?
The worship normally concludes with Aarti, Pushpanjali, Pradakshina and prayers for forgiveness. For a temporary festival idol, Visarjan is performed on the chosen day according to tradition.
13. Can I book a Pandit Ji for Ganesh Chaturthi Puja?
Yes. Devotees who want a formal traditional Puja can arrange a Pandit Ji through Panditji on Way, subject to service availability in their location.
14. How much does Ganesh Chaturthi Puja cost?
The cost varies depending on the city, Puja duration, number of rituals, Samagri requirements, number of Pandits and service arrangements. A fixed price should not be assumed without checking the selected service.
15. What is the difference between Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganesh Visarjan?
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning of the festival and the installation/worship of Lord Ganesha. Ganesh Visarjan refers to the ceremonial conclusion of the temporary idol’s worship and its immersion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Ganesh Chaturthi Puja
A few practical mistakes can make the Puja unnecessarily difficult.
Mistake 1: Using a generic national Puja time
Muhurat varies by location. Always check the Panchang for the actual city.
Mistake 2: Treating every Ganesha Murti identically
A temporary festival idol and a permanently installed home deity can have different concluding procedures.
Mistake 3: Forgetting Durva and Naivedya
Durva and Modak are among the most commonly associated offerings in Ganapati worship.
Mistake 4: Starting the Puja without preparing the Samagri
Arrange all materials beforehand to avoid interruptions.
Mistake 5: Following a random online ritual without considering family tradition
Puja paddhatis can differ. For a formal Puja, follow a recognized tradition or consult a qualified Pandit Ji.
Mistake 6: Keyword stuffing the online article
For publishers, repeatedly inserting phrases such as “best Ganesh Chaturthi Puja” or “Ganesh Puja Mumbai” does not make a page authoritative.
The better strategy is to answer the user’s actual questions comprehensively and demonstrate first-hand service relevance.
How Panditji on Way Makes Ganesh Chaturthi Puja Easier
Ganesh Chaturthi preparation involves more than simply purchasing a Ganesha Murti.
Devotees may need to decide:
- Which Puja procedure is required?
- What Samagri is needed?
- What is the correct Muhurat?
- Is Pratishthapana required?
- How should Abhisheka be performed?
- Which offerings should be prepared?
- When should Aarti be performed?
- When should Visarjan take place?
- Should a Pandit Ji be invited?
- How can the Puja be booked conveniently?
Panditji on Way aims to simplify this process through online Pandit booking and Puja-service arrangements.
Recommended External References
For factual festival-date and Panchang information, use authoritative and relevant references rather than generic low-quality SEO websites.
Panchang and festival timing reference:
Panditji on way– Ganesha Chaturthi 2026
2026 public holiday reference for Maharashtra:
MMRDA – Maharashtra Public Holidays 2026
Government cultural reference:
Ministry of Culture – Festivals of India Archive
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja Vidhi 2026 with complete Shodashopachara Ganesh Puja steps, mantras, Samagri, Muhurat, Ganapati Sthapana, Aarti and Visarjan procedure.
What is the procedure of Ganesha Chaturthi Puja?
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja traditionally begins with preparation of the Puja place, Deep Prajwalana and Sankalpa. For a newly installed festival idol, Avahana and Pratishthapana may follow. The Shodashopachara worship then includes Asana, Padya, Arghya, Achamana, Snana, Vastra, Yajnopavita, Gandha, Akshata, Pushpa, Dhupa, Dipa, Naivedya and concluding offerings such as Tambula, Dakshina and Nirajana. The Puja concludes with Aarti, Pushpanjali, Pradakshina and, for a temporary idol, Visarjan according to the chosen tradition.
Ganesha Chaturthi Puja Vidhi is the traditional worship procedure performed for Lord Ganesha on Vinayaka Chaturthi. The detailed ceremony generally includes preliminary rituals such as Sankalpa and, for a newly installed idol, Avahana and Pratishthapana, followed by Shodashopachara offerings including Asana, Padya, Arghya, Achamana, Snana, Vastra, Gandha, Akshata, Pushpa, Dhupa, Dipa and Naivedya. Durva, flowers, Sindoor, Modak and coconut are commonly offered. The ceremony concludes with Aarti, Pushpanjali, Pradakshina and, for temporary festival idols, Ganesh Visarjan.
Conclusion
Ganesha Chaturthi is an important occasion for devotees to worship Lord Ganesha with devotion, traditional offerings and sincere prayers.
A complete Ganesha Chaturthi Puja Vidhi can include Avahana, Pratishthapana, Shodashopachara offerings, Abhisheka, Durva, flowers, Sindoor, Modak, Naivedya, Aarti, Pushpanjali and the appropriate concluding ceremony.
For 2026, Ganesha Chaturthi falls on Monday, 14 September, while the exact Puja Muhurat should be checked according to the devotee’s city.
For families who want the ceremony conducted according to a traditional Puja procedure, Panditji on Way provides a convenient way to arrange Pandit Ji services and plan the Puja from booking through completion.
Book your Ganesha Chaturthi Puja with Panditji on Way and celebrate Ganapati Utsav with traditional devotion and proper Puja guidance.
Ganpati Bappa Morya.