10 Flowers Used in Ganesh Puja in Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is incomplete without flowers. In Hindu rituals, flowers are seen as symbols of purity, beauty, and devotion. Each bloom offered to Lord Ganesha carries a unique meaning and spiritual significance. Let’s explore the flowers used in Ganesh Puja and understand why they are special.
1. Hibiscus (Red Japapushpa) – Lord Ganesha’s Favourite
The hibiscus flower holds the top spot among flowers used in Ganesh Puja. It is believed to be Lord Ganesha’s most loved bloom, especially the red hibiscus, which symbolises power, energy, and strength.
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Fun Fact: In Ayurveda, hibiscus is also used for its medicinal properties, like boosting hair health and improving digestion.
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Offering it during Ganesh Puja is said to attract positivity and remove obstacles from life.
2. Marigold (Genda Phool) – Symbol of Prosperity
The marigold flower is bright, cheerful, and often used in garlands and decorations. Its golden hue represents prosperity, purity, and the energy of the sun.
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Fun Fact: Marigold petals are known to repel insects naturally, which is why they are commonly used in temples.
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Devotees offer marigold garlands to Lord Ganesha as a way of inviting wealth and happiness.
3. Lotus (Kamal) – The Divine Flower
The lotus is a sacred flower in Hinduism, symbolizing purity, knowledge, and enlightenment. Despite growing in muddy water, it blooms beautifully—signifying spiritual growth amidst worldly struggles.
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Fun Fact: Lotus is India’s national flower and is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi.
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Offering lotus to Lord Ganesha is believed to bring wisdom and spiritual clarity.
4. Rose (Gulab) – A Flower of Love & Devotion
The rose is one of the most commonly used flowers in Ganesh Puja. Roses, especially red ones, signify love, devotion, and purity of heart.
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Fun Fact: Rose petals have natural cooling properties and are used to make rose water for skincare and rituals.
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A rose garland is often placed around Lord Ganesha’s idol to express unconditional devotion.
5. Chrysanthemum (Shevanti) – For Longevity
Chrysanthemums are vibrant flowers symbolizing joy, peace, and longevity. In Ganesh Puja, they are often used in floral decorations and offerings.
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Fun Fact: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are associated with happiness and long life.
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Offering them to Lord Ganesha is said to promote harmony in the household.
6. Jasmine (Mogra) – The Fragrance of Purity
The jasmine flower is admired for its sweet fragrance and pure white petals, representing peace and purity.
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Fun Fact: Jasmine flowers are often used in making essential oils and perfumes because of their calming scent.
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Offering jasmine to Ganesha is believed to help calm the mind and bring inner peace.
7. Parijata (Night-flowering Jasmine) – The Heavenly Bloom
The parijata flower, also known as Harsingar, is a sacred flower with mythological importance. It blooms at night and falls to the ground by morning.
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Fun Fact: According to Hindu mythology, the parijata tree emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan).
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Offering parijata flowers during Ganesh Puja is believed to bring divine blessings.
8. Tube Rose (Rajnigandha) – For Positive Energy
The tube rose or rajnigandha has a strong, pleasing fragrance that spreads positivity in the surroundings.
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Fun Fact: Rajnigandha flowers are often used in weddings and festive garlands because of their long-lasting fragrance.
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Offering them to Lord Ganesha creates a peaceful and joyful puja atmosphere.
9. Aak Flower (Madar) – The Auspicious Offering
The aak flower (Calotropis) may not look as attractive as roses or hibiscus, but it holds immense spiritual significance.
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Fun Fact: Aak flowers are considered extremely sacred in Hindu rituals and are especially dear to Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha.
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Devotees believe offering aak flowers to Ganesha removes negativity and obstacles.
10. Kaner (Oleander) – The Bold Flower
The kaner flower comes in bright colors like yellow, red, and white. It is considered sacred and is often used in pujas and temple offerings.
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Fun Fact: Despite being mildly toxic, kaner flowers are widely used in rituals because they are believed to purify the surroundings.
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Offering kaner to Ganesha symbolizes courage and dedication.
Special Note: Importance of Durva Grass in Ganesh Puja
While flowers play a vital role in Ganesh Puja, no offering is complete without Durva grass (also known as Doob or Bermuda grass). According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Ganesha is especially fond of Durva. It is said that offering 21 blades of Durva grass can please Ganesha and help remove obstacles from life.
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Symbolism: The three blades of Durva represent purity of mind, body, and speech.
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Spiritual Belief: Offering Durva grass is believed to cool down Ganesha’s energy and balance cosmic vibrations.
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Traditional Practice: Devotees always offer Durva along with hibiscus, marigold, and other flowers during Ganesh Puja.
✨ Important Note: Always offer fresh and clean Durva grass. Avoid dried or withered grass, as it is considered inauspicious.
FAQs
1. Which flowers are most commonly offered to Lord Ganesha?
The most common flowers used in Ganesh Puja are red hibiscus, marigold, lotus, jasmine, and durva grass. Each flower has a spiritual significance, with hibiscus being Ganesha’s favorite.
2. Why is hibiscus considered special for Ganesh Puja?
Hibiscus (especially red) is believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite flower. Its bright red color symbolizes energy, devotion, and strength. Offering hibiscus is said to bring prosperity and remove obstacles.
3. Can we use any flower for Ganesh Puja?
Not all flowers are suitable for Ganesh Puja. For example, flowers like Ketaki (screwpine) and Champa are traditionally avoided because of their association with mythological stories. It’s always better to use auspicious flowers like lotus, hibiscus, or marigold.
4. Is durva grass more important than flowers in Ganesh Puja?
Yes, durva grass (a type of sacred grass) is considered extremely important in Ganesh worship. It is said that Lord Ganesha loves durva more than any other offering, as it represents simplicity, purity, and devotion.
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