Jyotir Gamaya

When I was small, Ganesha Chaturthi was the happiest time of our year. Our whole lane would shine with lights. We brought Ganapati Bappa home with dhol and nagada. We made Him sit on a wooden chowki, decorated with mango leaves and flowers. Neighbours came for aarti, and we children waited for sweet modaks as prasad. Those days are still fresh in my heart. But life does not stay the same. Children grow up and move far away. Jobs take people to different cities and even countries. I never thought that one day we would celebrate Ganapati Bappa’s festival by looking at a small screen. But last year something special happened. It not only gave me peace — it changed my family’s luck. A very hard year for my family In 2023, many problems came together. My son lost his job in Dubai. My daughter was unwell and had to take treatment in Pune. I myself was worried because of money matters. I prayed to Bhagwan Ganesha daily, but I felt helpless. As Ganesha Chaturthi came near, I wished to do prope...

This vratam is for Mata Gowri. Gowri is another name of Parvati. She is wife of Shiva. She is mother of Ganesha. People love her. She gives peace in home. She helps married life. She gives good luck and money too, many say. When we do this vratam, we remember family. We ask for husband’s long life. We ask for peace at home. We ask for fewer fights. We ask for blessings to the children. That is why many women do this vratam. But men can also take part. All can get her grace. When to do it This vratam comes one day before Ganesh Chaturthi. In our month Bhadrapada, on Tritiya (third day of bright half). In simple words, it is in August or September many times. People see panchang and pick the right time. Old people pick muhurta too. It is better to do at good time. What we do  I tell step by step. This is how many families do it.     1. Gow Puja — Cow worship: We start with Gow Puja. Cow is like mother. She gives milk, ghee, all. We offer water, rice, jaggery, banana, and A...