Ganapathi Puja is a sacred ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. It typically involves the installation of a Ganesha idol, followed by offerings of flowers, fruits, sweets (especially modaks), incense, and the chanting of mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah.” This puja is performed to seek blessings for success, prosperity, and the removal of hurdles, especially before starting new ventures or during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi.

Gana Homa, or Ganapathi Homa, is a fire ritual that complements the Ganapathi Puja. During this homa, offerings such as ghee, sesame, and rice are poured into a sacred fire while chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This ritual is believed to purify the surroundings, invoke divine energy, and bring spiritual and material blessings. It is performed to ensure success, remove obstacles, and create a harmonious environment for new beginnings.