Wednesday holds special importance in Sanatan Dharma as the day devoted to Lord Ganesha, and Ganpati Bappa is worshipped first before starting any new or auspicious task. According to religious beliefs, every item used in a puja carries its own significance, and choosing the right flowers is no exception. Some flowers are considered extremely dear to Lord Ganesha, while others are said to be forbidden in his worship. Here is a detailed look at which flowers should be offered to Ganpati Bappa and which ones devotees should avoid.
Why Flowers Matter in Puja
Religious texts describe flowers as a symbol of devotion and surrender. It is believed that when devotees offer a deity's favourite flowers, the puja becomes far more fruitful. This is why, before worshipping any god or goddess, it is considered important to know which flowers they prefer, so the ritual can be completed with full devotion and the proper method.
The Flowers Ganpati Bappa Loves the Most
Marigold flowers are offered the most during Lord Ganesha's puja. It is believed that offering marigolds brings the blessing of good health and gradually eases financial troubles.
Hibiscus flowers are also considered extremely dear to Lord Ganesha. According to belief, offering hibiscus helps devotees gain victory over their enemies and brings happiness and prosperity into their lives. It is also believed that Lord Ganesha helps remove his devotees' hardships when this flower is offered to him.
Parijat, Kand and Aparajita flowers also hold a special place in Ganpati Bappa's worship. The Parijat flower is considered auspicious for those wishing to be blessed with children. Offering Kand flowers is believed to bring peace and happiness to the household and strengthen love among family members. Aparajita flowers, when offered to Lord Ganesha, are believed to remove obstacles that come in the way of marriage.
Flowers You Should Never Offer
Not every flower is considered suitable for Lord Ganesha's puja, and religious beliefs are clear about a few of them.
- The Ketaki flower is considered forbidden in Lord Ganesha's puja. Lord Shiva does not favour this flower, and for that reason it is also considered inappropriate to offer it during Ganesha's worship.
- White flowers such as white Kaner and white Chameli should also be kept out of Ganesha puja. These flowers are believed to be associated with the moon, which is why they are not considered suitable for worshipping Ganpati Bappa.
Choosing the right flowers, according to these beliefs, is thought to make the puja more complete and strengthen a devotee's faith. This is why devotees are advised to be mindful about which flowers they pick before beginning Ganesha's puja.
