Ganesha Chaturthi - An Exposition by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

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Ganesha Chaturthi - An Exposition by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

 

- Compiled and Edited by Suresh C Bhatnagar.

__________

 

Purpose Of Ganesha Chaturthi

 

"The essential purpose of the Vinayaka Chaturthi is to teach

a person to avoid the company of the bad and cultivate the company

of the good." Sai Baba. SS, 9/92, p. 221

 

"The Ganapati festival is an occasion for people to purify

their minds. People generally tend to see in others the faults,

which they themselves have. Thereby they try to cover up their own

defects by attributing the same defects to others. This is a bad

quality." Sai Baba, SS. 9/92, p. 222

 

Vedic References Of Ganesha/Vinayaka

 

"The worship of Vinayaka has been in existence from times

immemorial in Bharat The Rig-Veda, the Narayanopanishad and the

Taitiriya Upanishad have passages referring to Vinayaka. It is

embedded also in a Gayatri Mantra, as follows:

 

'Tatpurushaaya Vidmahe Vakratundaaya dheemahi Tanno Danti

Prachodayat'

 

This Mantra indicates that Vinayaka' s divinity is glorified

in this Gayatri Mantra." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. '254

 

"The adoration of Parvati and Ganapati is not of recent

origin. Ganapati is lauded at several places in the Rig-Veda. This

clearly shows that Ganapati is as ancient as the Vedas. In several

places, Ganapati is mentioned both in the Vedas and the Upanishads.

There are many prayers addressed in the Narayanopanishad. There are

prayers to him in the Taitiriya Upanishad also. Thus, Ganapati

Mantra also figures in the Upanishad." Sai Baba, SS. 9/97, pp. 235 &

236

 

"Parvati Tanayaa Ganaadhipa" (Oh son of Parvati! Lord of the

Ganas.). "In these terms the Vedas extolled Ganapati." Sai Baba, SS,

10/95, p. 253

 

Birthday Of Ganesha "

 

"You are under the false impression that today (Ganesha

Chaturthi) is the birthday of Vinayaka. He has neither birth nor

death. He has neither beginning nor end. He is the eternal witness."

Sai Baba, SS, 10/99, p. 267

 

Who Is Ganapati Or Ganesha?

 

"Try to understand the significance of the names Ganapati -

Vinayaka and Vigneshwara. You are Ganapati yourself. This morning,

you have all heard Susheela singing a song, 'Adugaduguna Gudi Undhi'

(there is a temple at each and every step). Our body itself is a

temple of God. "Deho Devalaya Prokto Jeevo Deva Sanathana' (body is

the temple and the indweller is God). The Jeevana-jyoti (light of

life) that is present in the body is Parama-jyoti (the Supreme Light

itself). The body may die, but not the mind. Such a mind has to be

controlled. That is true Sadhana.Who is Ganapati? He is the

Adhipati (master) of all Ganas - five senses, five elements and five

sheaths. Human body consists of five Koshas (sheaths) - Annamaya

Kosha (food sheath) Pranamaya Kosha (life sheath), Manomaya Kosha

(mind sheath), Vijnanamaya Kosha (wisdom sheath) and Anandamaya

Kosha (bliss sheath). Man progresses only up to Manomaya Kosha. He

is unable to go up to the sheaths of wisdom and bliss. Since

Ganapati is the master of all the five Koshas, one has to take

refuge in him in order reach the state of bliss." Sai Baba, SS, 10,

99, p. 266

 

Ganesha's Different Names And Their Meanings

 

Aprameya

 

"Ganapati has been described as 'Aprameya', transcendent and

all-encompassing." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 239

 

Arka-Dron-Priya

 

"One of the names of Vinayaka is' Arkadronpriya' (One who

loves thumini and jilledi flowers, flowers which are not valued by

people). Other offerings to Vinayaka include a special kind of

grass. Ganapati accepts as offerings many things which men consider

useless and trivial." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 237

 

Ekadanta

 

"When Vinayaka was writing the Mahabharata to the dictation of

sage Vyasa, the latter laid down the condition that Vinayaka should

go on writing non-stop whatever Vyasa said. But Vinayaka also

stipulated a condition that Vyasa should never stop his dictation

but should go on without a break. While he was writing, Vinayaka's

pen broke and he did not hesitate to break one of his tusks to use

it as a pen. That is why he is called Ekadanta or with a single

tusk. This is the shining example of the spirit of sacrifice that

Vinayaka exhibited for the welfare of humanity." Sai Baba, SS,

10/94, p. 266

 

Ganapati

 

"Ga means Buddhi or intelligence. 'Na' means Vijnana or

wisdom. 'Pati' means master. So, Ganapati is the master of all

knowledge, intelligence and wisdom. There is also another

significant meaning for the word, that he is the leader of all

the 'Ganas' who are celestial beings." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, 263 &

264. Refer also to SS, 10/96, p. 274

 

"To worship the intellect and wisdom is one form of worship

of Ganapati. Ganapati represents the combination of much energy.

Because of this, the name Ganapati is appropriate for him. Nor is

that all. He is the Lord of all celestial hosts (Ganas). Hence, he

is hailed as Ganapati." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 254

 

Ganaadhipati

 

"Parvati Tanayaa(son) Ganaadhipa! (Oh son of Parvati! Lord of

the Ganas). In these terms the Vedas extolled Ganapati. He (Ganesha)

is called Ganaadhipati (Gana+adhipati = Supreme Lord), because he is

the Supreme Lord of the Ganas. The Ganas are the embodiment of the

organs of perceptions (Janaanedriyas) and of action (Karmendriyas).

The mind is the master of these ten senses. The presiding deity of

the mind is called Indra, as he is the Lord of lndriyas (the

senses). The master over the mind is the intellect." Sai Baba, SS,

10/95, pp. 253 & 254

 

"In the name 'Ganapati', 'G' stands for Guna or virtue

and 'Na' for Vijnaana (wisdom). When 'Ga' and 'Na' are joined, we

have the combination of Vijnaana (scientific knowledge) and

Prajnaana (spiritual wisdom). It is out of the combination of

Vijnaana and Prajnaana, Sujnaana (Supreme Knowledge) emerges.

Sujnaana is the distinguishing mark of a true man.*Ajnaana is the

sign of ignorance. Ganapati is the Lord of Vijnaana and Prajnaana

(worldly knowledge and spiritual wisdom). Therefore, when a devotee

prays to Ganesha, he asks for the conferment of Vijnaana, Prajnaana

and Sujnaana." Sai Baba, SS, 12/92, p. 224

 

"Ganapati means the Lord of Ganas. He is the Lord of sound

and has the form of Pranava." Sai Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 263

 

Lambodara

 

"Lambodara means Guardian of Wealth (Lakshimi-Swaroopa). Here

Lakshami represents all (types of) wealth and prosperity, and not

only Dhana (money) for which there is a separate deity called Dhana-

Lakshami, one of the eight Lakshamis. Here wealth means Sukha

(pleasure) and Ananda (bliss). What is the use of having all other

things when one has no pleasure or bliss?" Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p.

264

 

Vighneshwara

 

"Vinayaka is also called Vighneshwara as he removes all

obstacles coming in the way of devotees who pray to him sincerely.

He is worshipped by students with books so that all that is

contained in the books may get into their heads." Sai Baba, SS,

10/94, p. 265

 

"Vinayaka is one who drives away all sorrows and miseries. He

is the enemy of all obstacles. He will not allow any obstacle to

come in the way. He is the destroyer of obstacles. He confers

happiness and peace (on his devotees)." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 255

 

Vinayaka

 

"Vigato naayakah Vinaayaka", that means "Vinayaka has no

master over him. This means that Vinayaka is a totally autonomous

and independent deity. In the world, any individual or authority has

someone superior above him. But Vinayaka has no overlord." Sai Baba,

SS, 10/95, p. 254

 

"Vinayaka means that he is one who has no master above him.

He is the Supreme Master. He is beyond the mindless state. One who

has stilled the mind cannot have any master." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94,

p. 264

 

Form Of Ganesha

 

"The form of Ganapati cannot, by any standard, be termed as

handsome. He has a small head, big stomach and uncouth form. But

still we are captivated by his form and like to see him more and

more and worship him. Beauty does not lie in Ganesha's 'Aakaara'

(external form) but in 'Vikaara'. Ganesha sacrificed his own tusk

and used it as a pen to write down the Mahabharata to the dictation

of Vyasa, for the benefit of humanity .Man worships God only for

selfish purposes. No one is prepared to sacrifice anything for

getting divine bliss." Sai Baba, SS, 11/93, p. 296

 

Ganesha Is The Presiding Diety Over Intelligence And Obstacles

 

"Vighneshwara is the deity presiding over the intelligence.

He endows devotees with purity of intellect and power of

discrimination between right and wrong and between permanent and the

transient. Mundane pleasures are momentary and fleeting. Your aim

must be to seek that spiritual bliss which is enduring and

unchanging and which transcends the pleasures of earth and heaven."

Sai Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 262

 

"He is called Vighneshwara, because he is regarded as the

presiding deity'over obstacles. As Yama is the presiding deity for

births and deaths, the grace ofGanapati removes all obstacles." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 263

 

Worship Of Ganesha

 

"Ganapati has been described as 'Aprameya', transcendent and

all-encompassing. Hence, he can be worshipped in any manner." Sai

Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 239

 

"The Vinayaka Principle symbolizes health, bliss, peace,

wisdom, prosperity and many other things. Unfortunately, this truth

is not recognised by most people. People are content to offer some

kind of mechanical worship to any odd figure made of clay and add to

the pollution around them. What should be offered to God are things

which will please him" Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 238

 

"Shuklaambara-Dharam" Prayer

 

"The devout offer worship to Vinayaka with a well known

prayer, beginning with the words 'Shuklaambara-dharam' (The one who

wears a white garment). Vigneshwara is described as one who is white

like the moon, who has four arms (two for giving worldly protection

and two for spiritual benediction), who has ever-pleasing

countenance and to whom obeisance is offered for removing all

obstacles. While the pious used this prayer in a devout spirit, the

impious misused the words to distort the meaning and make it a

prayer to a quadruped, which is employed for carrying clothes. It is

by such misinterpretation that some people have sullied the great

culture of Bharat and undermined the faith in God." Sai Baba, SS,

10/96, p. 274

 

Positive Effects Of Vinayaka Worship

 

The Vinayaka Principle protects man from various hurdles in

life and ensures peace and security. Hence, on every auspicious

occasion Vinayaka is worshipped." Saiiffaba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

 

"Students worship Ganesha for success in academic studies and

for developing into good scholars." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 236

 

"Students like to worship Ganapati. They pray to Ganesha to

confer on them Buddhi (intelligence) and Siddhi (the capacity to

realise their aspirations)." Sai Baba, SS, 12/92. p. 224

 

The Inner Meaning Of The Ten-Day Worship Of Ganesha

 

"Realise that you have a conscience that is your guide and

consciousness which represents your divinity. Ganapati, who presides

over the (ten) senses (five senses of perception and five senses of

action), should be your guide in acquiring mastery over the senses.

There is an inner meaning in worshipping Ganapati for ten days. The

idea is that each day should be dedicated to acquiring control over

one of the sense organs (Indriyas). Devotees should realise that

control of the senses is quite simple. What is necessary is not to

encourage negative feelings when they arise, but to adopt positive

attitudes. For instance, Buddha confronted the anger of demon with

his love and transformed him" Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 241

 

Universality Of Vinayaka Worship

 

"Vinayaka is worshipped not only in Bharat but in many other

countries. The worship of Vinayaka has been prevailing from the

times of the Rigveda." Sai Baba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

 

Parvati And Ganapati

 

"Bharatiyas (Indians) hail Vigneshwara (remover of obstacles)

as 'Oh son of Parvati! Master of the Ganas (Ganaadhipa)'. Who is

this Parvati? What is the relationship between Parvati and Ganapati?

People do not normally inquire into these matters. Usually Parvati

is considered as the mother of Ganapati and no one recognises the

underlying unity between the two.

 

Where are Parvati and Ganapati to be located? Are they in the

external world or are they immanent in every human being? The truth

is both of them are all-pervading and convey the message of

spiritual oneness (Ekaatma-bhaavam).

 

What is the meaning of the name Ganapati? Where are the

Ganas? What is their form? When you investigate this, you find that

five organs of perception and five organs of action (Jnaanendriyas

and Karmendriyas) are the Ganas. The mind is the master of these ten

organs. Buddhi (or intellect) is the discriminating faculty above

the mind. The ten senses, the mind and intellect together constitute

the Ganas.

 

In the word' Gana',' Ga' stands for Buddhi (intellect). 'Na'

means 'Vijnaana' (higher knowledge or wisdom). Ganapati is the Lord

of the intellect and the higher knowledge. The question may be

asked: Are the intellect and the higher knowledge present in the

external world or are they to be found within man? The answer is

that he is present within each human being. There is no need to seek

him in the outside world. Ganapati dwells in every human being in

the form of intellect and wisdom.

 

When Ganapati is described as 'Parvati Tanaya' (son of Parvati), who

is this Parvati? Parvati signifies 'Prithvi'. Mother Earth. Everyone

is a child of Mother Earth. The meaning of 'Parvati Tanaya' (son of

Parvati) is that Ganapati, who is the Lord of Ganas, is the son of

Parvati, who symbolizes Shakti (Divine Energy)." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97,

p. 235

 

Primacy Of Ganapati

 

"Once, Parvati and Parameshwara, parents of Ganapati and

Subramanyam, wanted to test their intelligence. They summoned both

the sons and told them to go around the worlds to find out which of

the two would do quicker. The elder of the two, Ganapati, did not

stir from his place. The younger son, Subramanyam, mounted his

peacock and set out on the round-the-world trip. With a great deal

of efforts, he completed the trip and was approaching his parents.

Seeing him from a distance, Ganapati circumambulated his parents and

claimed himself to be the winner. The mother, Parvati, asked

Ganapati:

 

"Ganapati! Here is your brother who has gone round the world

and you have not stirred from this place. You have made no efforts

at all. How can you claim that you have gone round the*world? How

can I regard you as the winner?' Ganesha replied: 'Mother! The

cosmos is the combination of matter and energy- the unity of father

and mother. When I go round you, I have gone round the world itself,

as you are the parents of the cosmos. There is no place where you

two are not present. I see your omnipresence. By circumambulating

both of you, I can claim to have gone round the cosmos.' The moment

he uttered these words, Eeshwara (Shiva) was astonished at the high

intelligence of his son. He had recognised the truth about the

Divine parents. Ishwara then said: "Vinayaka! You are an exemplary

son for one and all. Let the world worship you first before they

offer worship to me. I am not as intelligent as you are. We are your

parents, but not more intelligent than you.' Eeshwara declared: "I

have many attributes but not your intelligence. Hence, before

offering worship to me, let all people worship you. This is the boon

I confer on you." Sai Baba, SS. 10/98, pp. 255-256

 

Importance Of Ganapati

 

"Eeshwara is the parent who conferred such an honour of a higher

status, than his own, on his son. Hence, Ganapati represents no

commonplace principle. He is the embodiment of all potencies. He is

the abode of every kind of intelligence. The goddess of wisdom

(Saraswati) dwells in his belly. Nothing untoward can happen

wherever he is present.

 

Ganapati occupies the position of one who is the source of all

prosperity. Moreover, when he is invoked before any undertaking,

there will be no impediments to its completion.

 

Today every kind of people- the wealthy, the wise, the scholars and

the common people- worship Ganapati. Students, with a view to

securing the grace of goddess of wisdom and ensuring that there is

no hindrance to their studies, place their books before the idol of

Ganapati and worship him." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 256

 

"Before we commence any activity we offer prayers to Vinayaka

so that the action may be successful without any impediments." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

 

"Every music concert begins with a song in adoration of

Ganapati like 'Vaataapi Ganapatim Bhaje!' This shows that by

worshipping Ganapati, proficiency in any sphere can be achieved. The

Ganapati Principle is pregnant with meanings. His story itself is

unique. In the Bhagavatam, Potana declares that the stories of the

Lord are extraordinary; they are sacred for all the three worlds.

They confer all blessings on the listeners and are constantly

contemplated upon by saints and sages. This applies to all deities.

Every aspect of the Divine is mystery. Whatever the Lord says is

full of significance. It is pregnant with sacred meanings." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 256 & 257

 

"Vinayaka is one who has all the five elements under his

control. He is embodiment of all potencies." Sai Baba, SS. 10/95, p.

260

 

Giver Of Siddhi & Buddhi

 

"Ganapati is not only the Lord of various activities but is

also the presiding deity for all auspicious functions. He can make

even inauspicious occasions auspicious. He is always engaged in

conferring boons on all. He is giver of prosperity and intelligence.

With the grace of Ganapati any desire can be realised." Sai Baba,

SS, 10/98. p. 256

 

"Ganapati is one who gives us spiritual potency and endows us

with Supreme Intelligence. These two are termed as Siddhi and Buddhi

respectively." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94. p. 264

 

"He (Ganapati) confers happiness and peace (on his devotees).

He is the master of all these powers (Siddhi and Buddhi). What is

this Siddhi (fulfillment)? When there is purity of mind, you achieve

peace (which is Siddhi). Vinayaka is thus the Lord of Buddhi

(Intellect) and Siddhi (Self-Realisation). Hence, every being should

acquire control over the mind." Sai Baba. SS. 10/95. p. 255

 

Consorts Of Vinayaka

 

"Siddhi and Buddhi are described as his two consorts. As he

is the Adhipati or Master of Siddhi and Buddhi, He is regarded as

their husband in mundane terms. Vinayaka has no desire and hence,

there is no need for him to have wife and children." Sai Baba. SS.

10/94, p. 264

 

How To Pray To Ganapati?

 

"In praying to Ganapati, you should not ask for trivial things like

passing in examinations or getting jobs. You should only pray: Oh

Vighneshwara! Please see that there are no obstacles in what I want

to accomplish. I am worshipping you for this purpose." Sai Baba, SS,

10/98, p. 256

 

"On the Vinayaka Chaturthi Day, students place books in front of the

idol of Ganesha and offer worship. They pray to the deity to

illumine their minds." Sai Baba. SS, 10/89, p. 264

 

Ganapati's Vehicle: Mooshika - A Symbolism

 

"Some people, out of ignorance, comment upon the big animal

form of this Master Deity and question how one with such a huge form

can ride on small mouse (Mooshika) . which is depicted as his

vehicle. "Mooshika' is symbolic of the darkness of ignorance, while

Ganesha signifies the effulgence of wisdom that dispels the darkness

of ignorance." Sai Baba. SS, 10/94, p. 264

 

"The mouse is the symbol of darkness. Because Vinayaka has

control over darkness, he is described as the rider on a 'Mooshika'.

He is the one who dispels darkness and sheds light on the world."

Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 254

 

"The mouse (Mooshika) is also a symbol of the sense of smell.

The mouse moves about following the direction of the smell

("Vaasana"). Vinayaka is the one who has mastery over 'Vaasanas',

that is, desires and ignorance (represented by 'Mooshika'). What is

meant by describing the mouse (Mooshika) as the vehicle of Vinayaka?

It means that Vinayaka rides on the 'Mooshika', representing desires

(Vaasanas) and ignorance (darkness)." Sai Baba. SS, 10/95. p. 254

 

"The inner significance of 'Vaasana' in relation to humanity

is the heritage of 'Vaasanas' which they bring from their previous

lives. These Vaasanas (inherited tendencies) account for the actions

of human beings in their present lives. They also signify desires.

Without recognising this underlying significance of Vinayaka's

mastery over ignorance, people merely wonder how a large being

Vinayaka could ride on a tiny creature like a mouse. Vinayaka

signifies the triumph of wisdom over ignorance and egolessness over

desires." Sai Baba, SS. 9/97, p. 239

 

"The mouse is a clever and lively creature. As a symbol, it

means that we should be clever and diligent in our actions." Sai

Baba. SS. 10/89, p. 263

 

Vinayaka's Body

 

"Vinayaka is known for his high intelligence. The very sight

of his figure gives joy to many. The form itself is extraordinary.

He has a big belly, a beautiful tusk. penetrating eyes, handsome

ears - all these are harmoniously balanced to produce an attractive

form.

 

Devotees worship Vinayaka in different ways. They address the

deity, describing his white robe, his moonlike complexion, his four

arms and ever-smiling face and pray for the removal of all

obstacles." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 255 & 257

 

Symbolism Of Ganesha's Body

 

"Vighneshwara is described as one wearing a white cloth. His

body is ash-grey. He is depicted as having four arms and a cheerful

countenance. The white cloth signifies purity of mind and heart. By

worshipping him, you must endeavour to achieve similar purity.

Vinayaka always appears serene and calm. By his grace, the devotee

must seek to achieve similar equanimity, whatever may be ups and

downs in life." Sai Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 264

 

Mythological Story On Worshipping Elephant Head

 

"There was once a demon by name Gajasura. He was a demon

king. He performed severe penance. Eeshwara (Lord Shiva) appeared

before him. Eeshwara is easily propitiated, and he gives readily

whatever one prays for, without examining whether it is right or

wrong to confer such a boon. He gives whatever the devotees pray for.

 

Gajasura performed penance and prayed to the Lord. Eeshwara

(Shiva) appeared before him and asked him what he wanted. Gajasura

said. 'Lord! You must merge in my stomach.' Shiva granted the boon

and lodged himself in demon's stomach. Parvati, not finding

Eeshwara, went out in search other Lord and could not find him

anywhere. She went to her brother, Vishnu, and appealed to him to

trace her missing Lord.

 

Vishnu knew that Shiva was in the habit of granting boons

indiscriminately and getting into difficulties. He told

her, 'Parvati! I know what has happened. Be calm. You go to your

abode. I shall bring Eeshwara there.

 

Vishnu took Shiva's Nandi and decorated it to appear like a

performing bull. Assuming the role of a bull-performer, Vishnu led

the bull to the city of Gajasura, playing on a pipe all the way

while the bull danced to the tune. The bull was dancing to the music

of the divine embodiment of all mysteries. Gajasura was intensely

watching the performance of the bull and its master. Pleased with

their performance, Gajasura asked the bull trainer, 'What do you

want?' The latter said, 'You should not go back on your word. Will

you" grant me what I want? You are Gajasura, a great king.'' Yes',

he said,' Give me Eeshwara who is in your stomach', said Vishnu.

Only Vishnu knew this fact, none else. Gajasura immediately fell at

the feet of Vishnu and said. 'Swami! This secret is not known to

anybody except you. I will keep my word even at the cost of my life.

But there is one condition. My head should be worshipped by all and

Eeshwara should wear my skin.' Vishnu agreed to it. This is the

reason why Eeshwara wears an elephant's skin. The head of Gajasura

is worshipped as Vinayaka' s head." Sai Baba. SS, 10/95, p. 258

 

Purport Of The Story

 

"These are some of the Puranic (mythological) stories

relating Vinayaka. They are only stories. But such stories have been

related to turn people's minds Godward. If a deep inquiry is made,

it will be realised that there is only one God. God is present in

all. Vinayaka is not separate from us. The indwelling-Principle of

our hearts is the Divine Annie Principle." Sai Baba. SS. 10/95, p.

258

 

Symbolic Significance Of Ganesha's Elephant Head

 

"The symbolic significance of Ganesha's elephant head has to

be properly understood. The elephant has profound intelligence. For

example, yesterday (8 September 1994) Sai Geetha (Bhagawan Sai

Baba's elephant) came running when it heard the sound of Swami's car

approaching. Though many cars were following Swami's car. Sai Geeta

could unmistakably identify Swami's car from an uncanny recognition

of the sound of the car. That is why it is termed 'Gaja Thelivi'

(elephantine intelligence). One having a sharp brain is described as

having the intelligence of an elephant. It has 'Medha Shakti.'

Moreover, the elephant has large ears and it can hear even minute

sounds. Shravanam or hearing the glory of the Lord is the first step

in spiritual Sadhana for which ears should be sharp. After hearing,

one has to ruminate over this and put into practice, (which are

termed as Shravana, Manana and Nidhidhyasana). The elephant takes

the praise and blame equally. When it hears something bad, it moves

its body this way and that way and shakes off the unwanted things

while it retains good things quietly." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p. 265

 

"The elephant is highly intelligent. The elephant is known

for its fidelity and gratitude. In any circumstances, it will not

forget its master. Even in its last moments, if it hears the voice

of its master, it will open its eyes and look for him. It will

sacrifice its life for its master. These are the lessons man should

leam from the elephant. Intelligence without gratitude is valueless.

Every man should be grateful to those who have helped him." Sai

Baba. SS, 9/97, p. 238

 

"The elephant is well known for its intelligence. Among

animals it has a prodigious size. No other animal is cast in such a

big mould. The elephant's foot encompasses the footprint of the

lion, esteemed as the lord of the animal kingdom. In the jungle,

hunters follow the footprints of the lion to trace it to its lair.

But if an elephant has walked over those footprints, they are

totally erased. Moreover, the elephant is the pathfinder for human

beings. In a forest covered with dense bushes, humans cannot easily

find their way. But once an elephant has gone through the jungle,

its trail becomes a path for others to follow. All these traits of

the elephant show that in the journey of life, one can find one's

way if one has intelligence of the elephant. Because Ganapati is

endowed with the form of an elephant, he is associated with the

qualities of intelligence." Sai Baba, SS. 10/98. p. 255

 

"Vinayaka is endowed with exceptional intelligence. His

elephant face is symbolic of supreme intelligence. Those of you who

are staying in the hostel, notice cars going up and down the road.

On the other side of the hostel is Sai Geeta (Bhagavan's elephant).

Sai Geeta takes no notice of the innumerable cars going on the road.

But, without any notice, it smells, as it were, the passing of

Swami' s car and immediately comes out with a roar to greet Swami.

That is the devotion of Sai Geeta to its Lord. The faith of the

elephant is as strong as its intelligence. His love for the master

is equally strong. It has steadfast love. These qualities of

devotion, faith and intelligence are associated with the elephant.

Whoever has these qualities can be regarded as endowed with the head

of an elephant." Sai Baba, SS, 9/92. p. 223

 

"Vinayaka is the Lord of life. Men should leam to shed

selfishness and cultivate love of Supreme Self. This is the truth

about Vinayaka. Vinayaka should not be considered as merely an

elephant-headed deity riding on a mouse." Sai Baba. SS, 10/95, p. 259

 

Offerings To Ganesha

 

"There are some inner secrets that should be noted in the

worship of Ganesha. Bharatiyas (Indians) make some special offerings

to Ganesha as food offerings. These preparations are made entirely

by using steam instead of heat from stove. Combining rice flour with

jaggery and til seeds, balls are prepared which are cooked in

steam." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97. p. 238

 

"On this auspicious day of Vinayaka Chaturthi, what is it

that we offer to Vinayaka? All offerings to Vinayaka are free from

the use of oil in their preparation. Boiled rice is made into balls,

which are filled with til seeds and jaggery. They are then mixed

with rice flour and cooked. In this offering, there is no trace of

any cooking oil. Hence, the offerings are called oil-less edibles."

Sai Baba, SS, 10/98. p. 255

 

Importance Of Special Offerings

 

"Even the offering that is made to Ganesha has great

significance because it is prepared with gram flour and jaggery or

pepper and enclosed in an outer covering made from flour paste and

then cooked in steam without using oil. This is supposed to be a

healthy and delicious food item according to the Ayurvedic system.

Modem doctors also recognise the importance of such steam-cooked

idlis (rice cakes), which they recommend, as post-operative diet for

patients as it is easily digestible. Jaggery too has the property of

controlling gas formation and this food item gives relief from eye

troubles and prevents gastric troubles. In the ancient traditional

mode of observing these festivals, great emphasis was laid on good

health as the pre-requisite for spiritual pursuits with a healthy

mind. For achieving the four goals of human life, Dharma

(righteousness), Artha (wealth). Karma (desire) and Moksha

(liberation), one should have basically a healthy body. If you want

to earn wealth by righteous means and cherish desires which lead to

liberation, you should have sound health." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p.

265

 

"It is found that oil-less edibles are easily digestible. The til

seeds serve to keep down the bad effects of phlegm, bile and wind in

the body. The jaggery in the preparation is conducive to the

improvement of the vision. All these preparations are intended to

promote health and are not designed to propitiate the Divine. The

energy derived from these edibles is conducive to the promotion of

longevity." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98. p. 255

 

Offerings Of Flowers And Green Grass To Vinayaka

 

"Vinayaka is pleased with an offering of flowers of no value

('Jilledy' flowers). It is said that anyone who eats these flowers

will become insane. Such flowers are offered to Vinayaka. Vinayaka

is also worshipped with an offering of green grass." Sai Baba, SS,

10/95. p. 256

 

Mythological Story On Offering Grass To Vinayaka

 

"In one Puranic (mythological) story, it is stated that once

Shiva and Parvati were playing a game of dice. For any game, there

has to be an umpire who has to declare who is winner. Shiva and

Parvati agreed to have Nandi (the divine bull) as the umpire. Nandi

is a favourite of Shiva, as he is a Shiva's vehicle. Although Shiva

lost the game, Nandi declared him the winner. It is stated that

Parvati was indignant over Nandi's partiality for Shiva and cursed

him that he should die from an incurable disease. Thereupon, Nandi

fell at the feet of Parvati and pleaded for forgiveness. 'Mother!

Forgive me. Should I not show at least this amount of gratitude to

one who is my master? Is it not humiliating for me to declare that

my master has lost the game? To uphold his honour, I no doubt

uttered a lie. But am I to be punished with such severity for such a

small offence?' Nandi prayed for forgiveness in this manner. Parvati

forgave Nandi and taught him the means to atone for his lapse. She

told him, 'The Chaturthi day in the month of Bhadrapada is the day

when my son's birthday is celebrated. On that day you have to offer

to my son what pleases you most (green grass).' This means that one

atones one's sins when one offers to the Lord what is most pleasing

and enjoyable to oneself. For Nandi the most enjoyable and relishing

food is green grass. As directed by Parvati, Nandi worshipped

Ganapati by offering green grass. Nandi was then relieved of his

dreaded disease. His health improved and, by the grace of Parvati,

he was redeemed." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 256

 

Symbolic Meaning Of The Story

 

"This incident is the basis for the practice recommended for

pilgrims to Gaya, Benaras and other places that they should give up

something they love most as an offering to the Divine. This means

that they should give up something which they love most and not

something, which they do not like. Whether it be fruit or vegetable,

what you should choose to give up as an offering to God is what you

like most. This means that you give up consuming thereafter that

vegetable or fruit. This practice has been prevailing from ancient

times among pilgrims going to Benaras, Prayag or other sacred places

for a holy bath in the Ganga or Yamuna.

 

People should offer to give up what they relish most as the best

offering to the Lord. But they offer something, which they do not

like. The Lord seated in the heart declares: 'Be it so!' As you have

not offered what is most dear to you but what you dislike most, the

Lord also offers to you what you dislike most. The reward for such

dubious offerings to God is that instead of health you get disease.

If you offer to God what is good, will not God give you what is good

for you." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 257

 

Offer To Ganesha Which Is Most Pleasing To You

 

"What should be offered to God are things which will please

Him. This is what Parvati enjoined on Nandishwara. She told

him: 'Offer to my son what will please him and what is most pleasing

to you.' The Vinayaka festival is designed to celebrate the

offerings of such pleasing things to Ganesha." Sai Baba. SS. 9/97.

p. 238

 

What Should You Offer To Ganesha On Ganesha Chaturthi?

 

"What is it that you have to offer to Vinayaka on this day of

Vinayaka Chaturthi? Today people spend a lot of money in offering

various fruits and preparations to God. All these offerings are made

only as a ritual. Ultimately, people themselves consume them. No

benefit occurs from making these offerings. Patram, Pushpam. Phalam,

Toyam - these are the four things you should offer to God. Here

Patram (leaf) means body. This body may wither away at any moment.

So, never develop attachment towards the body; instead offer it to

God. Pushpam (flower) mean Hridaya, the flower that will never fade.

Mind can be compared to Phalam (fruit and Toyam (water) stands for

tears of joy. All these should be offered to God. This is the

offering that God expects." Sai Baba, SS, 10/99, p. 267

 

Ganesha's Universality

 

"What is the inner meaning of these kinds of offerings? It means

that earlier Vinayaka was used to be worshipped by animals. His face

is that of an elephant. His vehicle is mouse. These are symbols from

the animal kingdom. They indicate that even birds and beasts worship

Vinayaka. Vinayaka is thus worshipped by all beings and is the Lord

over all beings. He does not belong to one country or one nation or

one period of time. He is related to all places and all times." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/95. p. 256

 

Teachings Of Ganesha

 

"Only Vinayaka teaches the lessons that are essential for mankind.

You should not stop with installing the idol and doing Pooja for a

few days. You should make efforts to become a Nayaka or Master over

yourself.

 

You have the nine-fold path of devotion - Shravanam

(hearing), Keertanam (singing God's glory), Vishno-naama-smaranam

(thinking of and chanting God's name), Paada Sevanam (serving at His

Lotus Feet), Vandanam (obeisance), Archanam (worship), Daasyam

(servitude), Saakhyam (befriending God), Atma-nivedanam

(surrendering body, mind and soul to God). The elephant signifies

combining of the first and the last, that is, Shravanam and Atma-

nivedanam, so that all other paths in between are covered fully."

 

Sal's Messages On Ganesha Chathurthi

 

"Today we are celebrating 'Ganesha Jayanti', the birthday of

Vighneshwara. We celebrate the Jayanti but do not make any effort to

understand the principle (tattwa) behind it. His supreme teaching by

his own example is oneness of the universe. When he was asked to go

round the universe to get a prize from his parents, he just

circumambulated his parents. Lord Shiva and Parvati and claimed that

he had completed the trip around the universe by going around them,

as Lord Shiva and Parvati represented the universe." Sai Baba, SS,

11/93. p. 296

 

"There is a need for observing festivals like Vinayaka

Chaturthi for external satisfaction, but what is more important is

to realise the inner significance of Vinayaka worship which is

likely to be a lasting effect. The worship of inanimate idols should

lead to contemplation on the subtle spiritual entity represented by

the idol. This is the process by which realisation of the Self

(Anna) takes place. Realise and act on the basis that the living

divinity is within you. Ganapati represents the ideal person who is

guided by intelligence and wisdom. Engage yourself in acts which

will please the Divine such as moderation in speech, giving up ill-

will and hatred, eschewing all bad thoughts, and restraints on

desires." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 241

 

"People look upon the Vighneshwara festival as some routine

affair. But Vighneshwara embodies all the forms and all the powers

of all the deities. It is not enough to worship Ganesha once a year.

We must worship him always. We must think of God every moment of our

lives." Sai Baba, SS. 10/98. p. 258

 

"Today few persons understand the true spirit of the Ganapati

Principle (Tattva). They are concerned about the outer forms and

ignore the inner esoteric meaning. This applies to the way many

festivals are celebrated. The birthday of Rama is celebrated without

understanding the qualities represented by Rama. To be real devotees

of Rama, people should cultivate his qualities." Sai Baba, SS.

10/98. p. 257

 

"Consider Vinayaka as the Indweller in your heart. He is

constantly warning you against what is bad. You ignore the warning

and get into trouble. How much will you benefit if you follow the

Master within you. Your conscience is the Master. Above all, heed

the dictates of the Divine. That will be your best safeguard." Sai

Baba, SS. 10/95, p. 260

 

Glimpses Of Ganesha Chaturthi Celebrations At Prasanthi Nilayam -

1999

 

"On this sacred day, 13th September 1999, Bhagavan came to

Sai Kulwant Hall at 6.45 a.m. After blessing the devotees with His

Darshan, Bhagavan graciously permitted the programme to be started.

The students chanted Stotras and hymns in praise of Lord Ganesha and

Bhagavan Baba. This was followed by an excellent presentation of

devotional songs by famous playback singer and an ardent devotee of

Bhagavan, Smt. P. Susheela. At the end of the programme, Prasadam

was distributed and Arati was offered to Bhagavan. The programme

came to a close at 8.30 a.m.

 

The afternoon programme started at 3.25 p.m. with Veda

chanting by the students. Thereafter Sri Sandipan Chatterji

introduced three speakers who were permitted by Bhagavan to make

brief speeches before His Divine Discourse.

 

The first speaker was Sri Shiv Raj Patil, former Speaker of

the Lok Sabha and an ardent devotee of Bhagavan Baba. Sri Patil

said, 'Bhagavan Baba is the embodiment of all Divine Names and

Forms. He is also the embodiment of all powers, knowledge and love.

He is all in one and one in all. He is the Living God. We are

fortunate to be in His presence. He showers love on one and all. The

only way to express our gratitude is surrender to Him.' Referring to

the Ganesha Chaturthi festival, Sri Patil emphasised its great

cultural values in uniting Indians.

 

The second speaker. Dr. G. Venkataraman, said that Ganesha

worship was very ancient. Referring to unusual form of Lord Ganesha,

Dr. Venkataraman said it was customary to associate intelligence

with elephant. He further elaborated that intelligence was of two

types - worldly intelligence (Medha Shakti) and higher intelligence

(Buddhi). The problems arise when we depend on Medha Shakti and

ignore Buddhi. Without Buddhi, Medha Shakti can be extremely

destructive as in the case of scientific applications.

 

The third speaker, Sri S.V. Giri, dwelt, in detail, on the symbolism

of Lord Ganesha's form. He said that elephant possessed very

powerful memory and perception faculties. but it was always careful

in its reaction. We should note that Lord Ganesha always rode

Mushika (rat), which represented attachment, ignorance and

confusion. Ganesha's head is shaped like AUM, which is auspicious

and divine. He also taught the lesson of hard work as a scribe of

sage Vyasa.

 

After these brief speeches, Bhagavan Baba delivered His

Divine Discourse and concluded it with the Bhajans "Hari Bhajan

Bina..' and 'Pibare Rama Rasam..." The programme came to a close

with Arati to Bhagavan at 5.15 p.m.

 

As a grand finale to the Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations, a

large number of colourful processions carrying the consecrated idols

of Lord Ganesha converged in Sai Kulwant 'Hall in the afternoon of

15* September 1999 in the Divine Presence of Bhagavan Baba. The

processionists all along chanted Veda Mantras and sang Bhajans,

which charged the atmosphere with devotional fervour. These

processions started arriving at 3.00 p.m. and continued coming one

after the other up to 3.30 p.m. They all circumambulated the Mandir

and stationed their vehicles with Ganesha idols in front of the

Mandir in a row. Bhagavan Baba blessed all the groups of students,

teachers and other staff members and posed for photographs with

them. In the end, Bhagavan broke coconuts in front of the all

Ganesha idols while the entire Mandir reverberated with Bhajans and

Veda Mantras. The programme came to a close with Mangala-Aarati to

Bhagavan." Editor, SS, 10/99, pp. 277-279

 

Glimpses Of Ganesha Chaturthi Celebrations At Prasanthi Nilayam -

1995

 

"This year's Ganesha Chaturthi, on 23 August 1995, was marked

by the presence of a very large number of overseas devotees. There

was a slight drizzle in the morning, but that did not deter the

devotees from assembling early enough for morning Darshan.

 

Bhagavan walked gracefully at precisely 7 a.m. After going

round the Darshan lines took His seat in the swivel chair under the

awning in front of the Ganesha idol in the Mandir verandah.

Immediately the Institute orchestra started their special musical

programme, including well-known hymns in praise of Ganesha and some

special songs in praise of Bhagavan in different languages. This was

followed by a few Bhajans and the distribution of Prasadam blessed

by Bhagavan. The morning function concluded with Aarati to Bhagavan.

In the afternoon, Bhagavan gave a memorable discourse in the Sai

Kulwant Mandap, giving new interpretations to the worship of

Vinayaka.

 

The Ganesha festival was simultaneously celebrated in the

various hostels where different kinds of idols had been installed by

the students for worship on five successive days. On the last day, 3

September, the different groups of students brought their Ganesha

idols in procession to the Mandir and marched past in front of

Bhagavan, singing Bhajans and shouting 'Moriyas' full-throatily.

Bhagavan blessed the boys as they passed carrying their Ganesha

idols for immersion in the Chitravati River. Bhagavan was obviously

pleased with the bubbling devotion of the boys and the enthusiasm

with which they were celebrating the festival." Editor, SS, 10/95,

p. 266

 

(From the Book - Festivals at Prasanthi Nilayam and Their

Significance)