What is Gauri Pujan that takes place during Ganesh Chaturthi?

Gauri Pujan is one of the important Maharashtrian rituals performed during Ganesh Chaturthi. Gauri is also known as Parvati, who is believed to visit her son during this 11-day festival. The three-day ceremony consists of Gauri Avahan, Gauri Puja, and Gauri Visarjan.

What is the story behind Gauri Pujan?

Gauri is an alternative name for the Goddess Parvati, who is the wife of Lord Shiva and the mother of Ganesha. Gauri implies 'golden one', denoting purity and divinity, and embodies qualities such as love, fertility, strength, and happiness in marriage.

As per the legend, Parvati fell in love with Shiva, who was lost in deep meditation. She practiced very strict penance to show her dedication to him, sacrificing herself in terms of material comforts. Her persistent devotion made Shiva take her as his wife. Thus, Gauri Pujan became a reflection of persistent devotion.

Why is Gauri worshipped during Ganesh Chaturthi?

The association of Gauri Pujan with Ganesh Chaturthi differs depending on tradition. When she is considered Parvati, Gauri is Ganesha’s mother. In parts of Maharashtra, Gauri is believed to be Ganesha’s sister who comes to visit him during the festival of Ganeshotsav. She is treated in her family like a long-lost daughter.

How is Gauri Pujan celebrated over three days?

Gauri Avahan (welcoming Gauri) is the first day when the goddess is brought to her home and put in place. The houses are cleaned and decorated with flowers, rangoli, haldi, and kumkum. The idol is decked in clothing and jewellery, while women chant bhajans and offer aarti.

The second day is when the puja takes place. Fasting and offering food like modak, puran poli, kheer, coconut and betel leaves may take place. The idols of Shiva and Ganesha might also be worshipped. Some other rituals associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti are those of the Maharashtrian tradition.

The third day is Gauri Visarjan (ritualistic immersion of Gauri). After aarti and worship, Gauri is sent away from the home in accordance with the tradition of the family. This act symbolises that Gauri is returning to her heavenly abode.

What is the significance of Gauri Pujan for women?

Gauri Pujan is very significant in the religious as well as familial customs of women. Married women pray for the longevity of their husbands, a happy married life, and prosperity of their families, while unmarried women pray for having an ideal companion in their life.

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