Anant Chaturdashi 2023: Know the Date, Time for Ganesh Visarjan, Auspicious Muhurat, and Worship Rituals
Today marks the celebration of Anant Chaturdashi in 2023, a significant Hindu festival that is dedicated to the immersion of Lord Ganesha idols. This day is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm, especially in Maharashtra and other parts of India. It is a culmination of the 11-day long Ganesh Chaturthi festival, during which Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity, is welcomed into homes and public pandals with elaborate ceremonies.
Anant chuturdashi & Ganesh chuturdashi
Date and Time:*
Anant Chaturdashi falls on the 14th day (Chaturdashi) of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. In 2023, it is being celebrated on September 28th. The timing of the festival is crucial, as it determines the auspicious moment for the immersion of Ganesha idols.
Auspicious Muhurat:* The timing for Ganesh Visarjan (immersion) is of paramount importance. Devotees believe that bidding farewell to Lord Ganesha at the right time ensures his smooth journey back to his heavenly abode, Mount Kailash. The specific muhurat for visarjan varies from place to place and can also depend on individual preferences. Generally, the best time for immersion falls during the afternoon or evening.
*Worship Rituals (Pujan Vidhi):* The process of Ganesh Visarjan involves a series of rituals that are performed with devotion and reverence. Here are the essential steps of the worship ceremony:
1. *Morning Rituals:* Devotees wake up early in the morning and prepare to perform the final aarti (prayer) for Lord Ganesha. The aarti is accompanied by the chanting of mantras and the singing of bhajans (devotional songs).
2. *Offerings:* Various offerings, including modak (a sweet dumpling considered Ganesha's favorite).
2. *Offerings:* Various offerings, including modak (a sweet dumpling considered Ganesha's favorite), fruits, and flowers, are made to the idol. Devotees express their gratitude and seek blessings from the deity.
3. *Visarjan Procession:* After the morning rituals, the procession for the immersion begins. The idol of Lord Ganesha is carried on a beautifully decorated palanquin or vehicle, accompanied by music and dance.
4. *Sankalpa:* Before immersion, devotees take a solemn vow (sankalpa) to welcome Lord Ganesha again the following year with equal enthusiasm and devotion.
5. *Immersing the Idol:* The idol
is gently lowered into a body of water, such as a river, lake, or the sea, signifying the departure of Lord Ganesha. Devotees bid farewell with chants of "Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya" (O Lord Ganesha, come back soon next year).
6. *Collecting Ananta Leaves:* After immersion, many devotees collect Ananta leaves, which are considered sacred. These leaves are used for a ritual called "Ananta Pooja" performed on the same day or the following day.
Anant Chaturdashi is not just a festival; it is a symbol of unity, devotion, and the cycle of life. It reminds us of the impermanence of life and the belief that Lord Ganesha will return to bless us once again. It is a time for family and community bonding as people come together to celebrate the divine presence of Lord Ganesha.
As the sun sets on Anant
Chaturdashi in 2023, the hearts of devotees are filled with hope and anticipation, looking forward to the next year's grand celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi. Until then, they carry the blessings of Lord Ganesha in their hearts, believing that he will fulfill their wishes and protect them throughout the year.
Writer Priti kumari
