As the auspicious festival of Ganesh Chaturthi dawns, millions of devotees across India prepare for a delightful and heartfelt ritual: offering 21 Modaks to Lord Ganesh. Beyond its sweet exterior, this tradition holds a fascinating history, weaves intricate legends, and carries deep-rooted beliefs. Let’s delve into the history, legends, and beliefs that surround this delightful custom.
The Significance Of 21 Modaks For Lord Ganesh
The tradition of offering Modaks to Lord Ganesh can be traced back to ancient texts and scriptures, including the Ganesh Purana and the Mudgala Purana. These sacred texts mention Lord Ganesh’s fondness for Modaks, a sweet delicacy. Over centuries, this tradition evolved into offering 21 Modaks, and it has become an integral part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
The tradition of offering 21 Modaks to Lord Ganesh originates from a charming legend. During a visit to the forest home of his devoted follower, Anusuya, Lord Shiva found himself seated alongside a young Ganapati. Anusuya insisted on serving Bal Ganesha first. After enjoying many dishes, Ganapati remained hungry. Realizing Lord Shiva would go hungry if Ganapati wasn’t satisfied, Anusuya offered a single sweet Modak.
After consuming it, Ganapati burped, and, remarkably, Lord Shiva burped 21 times simultaneously. This legend explains the significance of offering 21 Modaks to Lord Ganesh, symbolizing the divine completion of their meals. It’s a heartwarming tale that highlights the bond between devotion, hunger, and divine blessings during Ganesh Chaturthi.
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Significance Of The Number 21
The choice of 21 Modaks is not arbitrary; it carries a deeper spiritual significance. In Hinduism, numbers have symbolic meanings, and 21 is considered an auspicious number. It is believed to represent the unity of different elements of creation.
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Devotees offer 21 Modaks during Ganesh Chaturthi to seek Lord Ganesh’s blessings for wisdom, knowledge, and success in their endeavours. It is believed that the sweet Modaks please Lord Ganesh, and in return, he removes obstacles (Vighnas) from their path. People offer these sweet treats with deep devotion and a pure heart.
The practice of offering 21 Modaks to Lord Ganesh is a beautiful blend of history, legend, symbolism, and devotion.
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