Ganesh Chaturthi Puja

Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated at the end of summer, is more than just a festival or ritual – it is a symbolic beginning of a new path.

Ganesha, with the head of an elephant and the body of a child, reminds us that wisdom and innocence can live together; that true strength is born not from rigidity, but from flexibility and trust in the flow of life.

The puja ceremony begins in the Shiva temple in Lilleoru in front of the Ganesha murti.

During the ceremony we bathe him with water, offer flowers, sandalwood, and sweets (modak), because the spiritual journey, too, needs joy and simple gratitude.

To the mind it may seem like ritual, but on a deeper level, it is a call for Ganesha to enter our inner temple – to remove the stones we so often place on our own path: fears, doubts, pride, impatience.

Ceremony culminates with the aarti – circling light before the murti of Ganesha – we are not only illuminating the deity “out there,” but also lighting up the sacred space within.

Because every obstacle Ganesha helps us overcome is really an obstacle in our own heart.

Ganesh Chaturthi puja is a quiet promise:

– that we will begin again,

– that we will welcome both blessings and lessons,

– and that we will trust that unseen hand that holds and guides us.

Om Gam Ganapataye Namah

May Ganesha’s wisdom be with you – guiding, protecting, and opening the gates of your heart.

After the puja, traditional Indian temple dancers from the Laasya Yashodam Kuchipudi Art Academy in Finland will perform in honor of the puja.

Participation:

You are welcome to offer a donation to Ganesh either during registration or on site, suggested donation amount shown below.

If you wish, you may also bring flowers, fruits, or other offerings of your heart.

Suggested donation: 11 EUR