File:Ganesh chaturthi puja 04.jpg

English: Ganesh Chaturthi puja is a significant Hindu ritual that involves several steps and rituals. Here's a brief description:

1. **Preparation**: Before the puja, devotees clean their homes and decorate the puja area with flowers, rangoli (decorative designs made on the floor), and other traditional decorations.

2. **Ganesh Idol Installation**: A clay or eco-friendly idol of Lord Ganesha is installed on a platform or pedestal in the puja area. The idol is usually adorned with flowers, garlands, and other decorations.

3. **Pran Pratishtha**: This ritual involves invoking the presence of Lord Ganesha into the idol. The priest or head of the household performs prayers and chants mantras to infuse the idol with divine energy.

4. **Pujas and Offerings**: Devotees offer various items to Lord Ganesha, including flowers, fruits, sweets (modak is considered a favorite of Lord Ganesha), coconut, and incense. Mantras and prayers are chanted throughout the puja.

5. **Aarti**: Aarti is performed to show reverence and gratitude to Lord Ganesha. Aarti involves waving lighted lamps or camphor in front of the deity while singing devotional songs.

6. **Modak Offering**: Modak, a sweet dumpling considered to be Lord Ganesha's favorite, is offered to the deity as prasad.

7. **Ganesh Visarjan**: At the end of the festival (usually after 1, 3, 5, 7, or 11 days), the idol is immersed in water (visarjan) as a symbol of bidding farewell to Lord Ganesha as he returns to Mount Kailash, his abode. This ritual is often accompanied by processions, singing, and dancing.

Throughout the puja, devotees seek Lord Ganesha's blessings for prosperity, success, and the removal of obstacles from their lives. The atmosphere is filled with devotion, joy, and celebration during this auspicious festival.