On the day of Ganesha Chaturthi festival, there is a tradition of worshipping Lord Ganesha with 21 different varieties of leaves known as Ekavimshati Pathra Pooja. The number 21 signifies - the five organs of perception, five organs of action, five vital airs (pranas), five elements, and the mind.
Apart from spiritual significance there is also an element of health consciousness and environmental protection involved in its usage. Even today these leaves/herbs are used in preparing Ayurvedic medicines curing several diseases. Apart from this they act as a Divine way of controlling pollution, be it water or air.As this festival comes in monsoon it saves us from various viral infections and water born diseases.After the worship the leaves along with idol will be immersed in water and these leaves purify the water with its medicinal properties, water with out causing pollution. Thus worshiping Lord Ganesha with different varieties of leaves is associated with the belief that these medicinal values will reach the human beings either through air or water apart from providing the required sanctity and spirituality.
Instead following what our ancestors told we are using what ever available in the markets and we are disturbing environment pollution by endangering the water bodies. My appeal to all is if you dont know the 21 varieites then just offer 21 blades of Druva Grass to him with a piece of Jaggery .He will simply satisies and What is more important is devotion not the ritual.
Lord Ganesha is our mentor and protector.May he enrich our life by always giving great beginnings and removing obstacles from our life. Happy Ganesha Chathurthi.
wishing you a Blessed and Happy Ganesha chathurthi
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