Ganesh Chaturthi Begins on September 7: Optimal Sthapna Time 12:33-12:47 PM, Importance of Clay Idols, and Key Worship Tips

According to the Puranas, Lord Ganesh was born on the day of Bhadrapada Chaturthi, during the second prahar. On this day, Swati Nakshatra and Abhijit Muhurat were present. During this auspicious alignment of dates, times, and constellations, at midday when the sun is directly overhead, Devi Parvati created the idol of Ganapati, and Lord Shiva infused it with life. 

According to the Vedic calendar, this year’s Ganesh Utsav will commence on September 7, Saturday. On this day, the idol of Lord Ganesh will be Sthapna.

The Significance of Clay Ganesh Idols

Clay Ganesh idols are considered auspicious. The idol of Ganesh should be made from clay because clay inherently possesses purity. According to astrologers and scholars of religious texts, clay Ganesh idols are composed of the five elements (Panchatattva): earth, water, air, fire, and space. These elements are present in the idol, making it effective for invoking and honoring the deity.

Worshipping a clay Ganesh idol brings positive energy. In contrast, idols made from plaster of Paris and other chemicals do not contain divine elements and can lead to pollution of rivers. The Brahmapurana and the Anushasana Parva of the Mahabharata mention that contaminating rivers brings about negative consequences.

Why Clay Ganesh Idols?

Clay Ganesh idols are significant because they are made from the Panchatattva (five elements): earth, water, air, fire, and space. This composition makes them effective for invoking and honoring the deity.

The Shiva Purana narrates that Devi Parvati created a clay figure of Ganesh out of her desire for a son, and then Lord Shiva infused it with life. This figure became Lord Ganesh.

The Shiva Mahapurana emphasizes the importance of clay idols over metal ones. The Lingapurana states that making idols from the clay of the Peepal tree root is considered auspicious. Alternatively, clay from the Ganga or other sacred places can be used.

When making an idol, it is recommended to remove the top layer of clay, using only the inner clay for the creation of the Ganesh idol. According to the Vishnudharmottarapurana, worshiping an idol made from the clay of the Ganga or other holy rivers can cleanse one of all sins.

The Bhavishya Purana mentions that clay idols are considered very sacred alongside those made of gold, silver, and copper. Idols made from special tree wood are also deemed sacred.

A clay idol created in this manner, when consecrated, embodies the divine presence of the deity. Worshiping such a clay Ganesh idol is believed to yield the benefits of performing countless yajnas.

The Significance of Ganesh’s Right and Left Trunk

In Ganesh idols, the direction of the trunk carries special significance:

Right-Trunk Ganesh (Siddhivinayak): An idol with Ganesh’s trunk turned to the right is regarded as Siddhivinayak, or the bestower of success and prosperity. It is traditionally placed inside the home, symbolizing the invitation of blessings and success into the household.

Left-Trunk Ganesh (Vighnavinashak): An idol with the trunk turned to the left is known as Vighnavinashak, or the remover of obstacles. This form is typically Sthapna outside the home, at the entrance, to prevent any disruptions or difficulties from entering the house.

In offices, it is considered best to place an idol with the left trunk to ensure smooth operations, while in homes, the right-trunk Ganesh is preferred to invite prosperity and success.

Ideal Features for Ganesh Idols

Trunk Orientation:

Curved Trunk: Ganesh is often referred to as Vakratunda, meaning he should have a curved trunk. An idol with a left-facing trunk is believed to grant liberation (moksha), while one with a right-facing trunk provides worldly and material happiness.

Direction of Trunk:

The direction in which Ganesh’s trunk curves should ideally be considered when placing the idol, as it is associated with specific types of blessings and prosperity.

Vehicle of Ganesh:

Do not worship idols without Ganesh’s traditional vehicle, the mouse (mushak). Religious texts state that deities should be worshipped with their vehicles.

Color:

Ganesh is named Dhumarvarna in sacred texts, which implies a color akin to smoke, such as a light slate gray. This color can be used for the Ganesh idol.

Crescent Moon:

Ganesh is also known as Bhala Chandran, meaning his idol should have a crescent moon on the forehead.

Attributes:

Ganesh idols should ideally have both a noose (pasha) and a goad (ankusha) in his hands. This form is explicitly mentioned in the scriptures.

By following these guidelines, the Ganesh idol can be appropriately crafted and positioned to ensure that worship brings the desired benefits and blessings.

Guidelines for Sthapna Lord Ganesh’s Idol

When Sthapna the Ganesh idol, consider the following:

• Direction for Sthapna: Place the Ganesh idol facing either the east or north-east direction. Avoid Sthapna the idol in the south or south-west direction.
• Placement: Ensure the idol is not positioned in a way that its back is visible from the main areas of the house. It is believed that poverty resides on the back of Ganesh, and seeing it might bring poverty.
• Material: Use a clay idol for Sthapna in the home.
• Post-Festival Procedure: After ten days, on Anant Chaturdashi, Visarjan the Ganesh idol from the house to complete the ritual.