Whether it is a grand Griha Pravesh in a new Hinjewadi apartment, a lavish wedding in Camp, or a simple daily prayer in a Baner household, every Hindu ritual begins with the invocation of Lord Ganesha. We instinctively chant 'Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah' before starting anything new, from buying a new car to writing an exam. But have you ever wondered why the elephant-headed god holds the supreme position of being the 'Pratham Pujya' (the first to be worshipped)?
The Fascinating Mythological Story
The origin of this tradition lies in a famous story from the Shiva Purana. According to the legend, Goddess Parvati created a young boy from the sandalwood paste (ubtan) she used for bathing and breathed life into him. She called him her son, Ganesha, and instructed him to guard the door while she bathed.
When Lord Shiva returned, Ganesha, who did not know his father, strictly followed his mother's orders and stopped Shiva from entering. An argument ensued, and in a fit of rage, Shiva beheaded the boy with his trident (Trishul).
When Goddess Parvati discovered this, she was devastated and furious, threatening to destroy the entire universe in her grief. Realizing his mistake, Lord Shiva ordered his followers to bring the head of the first living creature they found sleeping with its head facing north. They returned with the head of a powerful elephant. Shiva placed the elephant head on the boy's body and brought him back to life.
The Boon of 'Pratham Pujya'
To pacify Goddess Parvati and to recognize Ganesha's extraordinary courage and unwavering devotion to his duty, Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and all the celestial deities bestowed upon him a unique boon.
