Ganesha is the son of Shiva and Parvati. He is the Lord of the Multitudes, the Lord of Wisdom, and the Protector at the Door.
Lord Shiva granted Him the boon that He will be the first to be worshiped in every puja. Without Wisdom, it is impossible to unlock the doors to the secret of Enlightenment.
Ganesha Puja is a full and complete puja that contains forms of Vedic, Puranic, and modern worship.
Listen in as Swamiji shares the essence of this wonderful puja as well as addresses Ashtanga Yoga, 36 principles of Tantra philosophy, and insightful stories about Lord Ganesha.
Click on the picture to (top,right) to download the Ganesha Puja iPad App, or get your copy of the Ganesha Puja book.
See you every weekday evening at 6:00 pm on the live webcam!
Ganesha Puja: Class 1
Introduction to Ganesh Puja and Preliminary Mantras
Ganesha is the Lord of Wisdom and the Remover of Difficulties. He stands as the guard at the door of the Divine Mother, only allowing beings with wisdom to enter into the secrets of Infinite Energy. This is why it is customary to worship Ganesha first. In this first class, Swami Satyananda Saraswati and Shree Maa tell stories about the birth of Ganesh and His conveyance, the divine mouse named Kraunch, and begin the discussion of how to conduct His worship.
Ganesha Puja: Class 2
Ganesha Meditation, Nyasa, and Ganeshatharvashirsham
In this second class of the Ganesha Puja, Swamiji explains the significance of Ganesha’s broken tooth. He also explains how Ganesha represents the perfect devotee. As an integral member of the Divine family, even Shiva worships Ganesha before going to slay demons.
Ganesha Puja: Class 3
Ganesha’s 108 Names, Puja Offerings and Closing Prayers
In this third class, Swamiji translates the 108 names of Ganesha, taking time to tell stories and illuminate the rich meanings of Ganesha’s divine attributes. Swamiji also discusses the puja offerings and sheds light on the inner meanings of the articles of offering and why they are offered in puja.
Ganesha Puja: Class 4
Ganesha Chalisa and Philosophy of the Principles
The Ganesha Chalisa is a fun song that describes the birth and adventures of Ganesha. After translating this song, Swamiji reads the essay written at the end of the book on the philosophy of the Knowledge of the Principles. This concise description outlines the path of creation from the source, and the method of how to return to the source and merge with God. Without the blessing of wisdom, which is bestowed by Ganesha, this highest realization cannot be reached.
Ganesha Puja: Class 5
Recitation of Ganesha Puja
In this final class, Swamiji and Shree Maa perform the entire Ganesha puja from cover to cover. Swamiji chants with such enthusiasm and Shree Maa makes the offerings with such delightful playfulness that the audience can’t help but participate. Come join in the delight of worship!