The Remover of Obstacles: Ganesh Chaturthi and What It Teaches Us About New Beginnings

Every new journey in life begins with a prayer to Lord Ganesha. Whether it’s starting a new job, moving into a home, or beginning a relationship, we turn to Ganesha: the remover of obstacles, the giver of wisdom, and the bringer of prosperity.

Ganesh Chaturthi, the vibrant 10-day festival honoring him, is more than just a celebration of his presence. It’s an invitation to reset, ground, and align with what truly matters.

Lord Ganesha

The Birth of Ganesha

The story of Ganesha’s birth is as powerful as it is symbolic. While bathing, Goddess Parvati created Ganesha from the sandal paste of her body and asked him to guard her door. When Lord Shiva returned and was denied entry, anger overtook him, and he severed Ganesha’s head.

Parvati’s grief shook the heavens. To console her, Shiva restored Ganesha to life with the head of an elephant and declared that he would be worshipped first before all new beginnings.

This story reminds us of duty, resilience, and transformation even when life feels broken, renewal is always possible.

The Festival of Ganesh Chaturthi

Celebrated in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, Ganesh Chaturthi spans 10 days. Families and communities welcome beautifully crafted idols of Ganesha into their homes, honoring him with prayers, offerings, and devotional songs.

On the final day, the idol is immersed in water: a ritual called visarjan. This symbolizes letting go, reminding us that while forms are temporary, the divine presence of Ganesha is eternal and all-pervading.

What We Learn from Ganesha

1. Duty: Ganesha stood firm in guarding his mother’s door, even against Shiva.

2. Devotion to Parents: Instead of circling the world, Ganesha circled his parents, knowing they represented the entire universe.

3. Wisdom & Focus: He wrote down the Mahabharata with full attention, embodying discipline and concentration.

   
   

This Ganesh Chaturthi, I invite you to join my workshop, where we’ll reflect on these teachings through journaling, meditation, and grounding practices. Together, we’ll call in Ganesha’s wisdom and stability to help us release obstacles and begin anew.