According to Hindu faith and scriptures, Lord Ganesha spiritually protects the Earth by grounding cosmic energies and anchoring the foundational structure of the universe. Ganesha is associated with the Muladhara (root chakra), representing stability and spiritual grounding. He is also regarded as the guardian of the ten cardinal directions (Dishas), allowing divine energies to reach the earthly realm safely. May the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha bring peace, wisdom, happiness and prosperity to every home during this sacred Ganesh Chaturthi. To make the festival truly divine, peaceful and spiritually enriching, devotees can recite or listen to the Ganapati Atharvashirsha, helping calm the mind, deepen concentration and inspire righteous actions. Choosing eco-friendly or metallic idols and adopting symbolic home Visarjan by gently pouring water over the idol near the Tulsi Vrindavan can help protect nature while symbolising the cycle of creation and dissolution. Let us also meditate upon Ganesha as Vighnaharta, the remover of obstacles, and strive to overcome doubt, anger, ego, sorrow, selfishness, unhealthy habits and injustice. Ganapati Bappa Morya!
RAJESH BANAULIKAR, Arpora
