Vinayagar Chathurthi is a sacred festival commemorating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the revered Hindu deity symbolizing wisdom and success. This year in Malaysia, the auspicious occasion is slated to be observed on the 7th of September, 2024.

History of Vinayagar Chaturthi…

Vinayagar Chaturthi, steeped in ancient Hindu mythology, traces its origins to a profound legend. According to the narrative, Parvati, in the absence of her husband Shiva, crafted Ganesha from Sandalwood paste, appointing him as the guardian at her home's entrance while she took her bath. Upon Shiva's return, a confrontation ensued as he obstructed his path. The ensuing disagreement saw Shiva attempting to reason with the young boy, but to no avail. In a moment of heated exchange, Shiva, the god of destruction, severed Ganesha's head.

Why we offer Arugampul to Lord Ganesha?

Once, a demon named Anlasur wreaked havoc across the world, terrorizing both mortals and gods alike. His voice caused the earth to tremble, and he swallowed countless innocents, including saints and sages. Despite several attempts, even Lord Indra could not subdue the demon, as Anlasur’s power was beyond his control.
In their desperation, the gods turned to Lord Shiva for help. Shiva, in turn, directed them to Lord Ganesha. Ganesha agreed to intervene and waged a great battle against Anlasur. After a fierce struggle, Ganesha took on His Cosmic form and swallowed the demon whole.

However, the immense heat from Anlasur inside His stomach began to cause great distress to Ganesha. He became restless and could not even lie down due to the pain. To ease His suffering, Lord Indra offered Ganesha the Moon to wear on His forehead, which helped cool Him down slightly. As a result, Ganesha earned the name Balachandra (Bearer of the Moon). Lord Shiva also contributed by removing a cobra from His neck and tying it around Ganesha’s waist to alleviate His agony. Even Lord Varuna, the God of Rain, showered Ganesha with water, but nothing seemed to work, and Ganesha continued to suffer from the heat.

At this critical moment, 88,000 sages arrived and began performing a special archana (ritual offering) to Ganesha using 21 blades of Arugampul grass. Miraculously, this ritual cured Ganesha of His distress. Pleased with their devotion, Ganesha declared that whoever offers Him Arugampul with sincerity and devotion would be blessed with virtue and merit.


Mantras to chant

1. Vakratunda Maha-Kaaya Surya-Kotti Samaprabha Nir - Vighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa

2. Aum Ekadantaya Viddhamahe, Vakratundaya Dhimahi, Tanno Danti Prachodayat.

3. Om Gan Ganpataye Namah

Source / Image Credit: Universal Divine Art, HinduPad, Laxmi Raghunadh Creations, Sri Kottu Malai Pillayar Facebook