Vinayagar Chathurthi Pooja
Valarpirai Chathurthi (fourth day of the waxing moon) in the month of Avani. Usually in the morning or before noon.
Next: 4 September 2027, Saturday · Avani 18
Significance
The special part of this day is bringing a new clay Vinayagar home and worshipping him. Kozhukattai (sweet rice dumplings) is the main naivedhyam of this pooja.
Things you need
- Clay Vinayagar idol
- Small umbrella
- Arugampul (Bermuda grass), garland of erukkam flowers
- Flowers, turmeric, kumkumam, sandalwood paste
- Mango leaves, young banana plants
- Kozhukattai, sundal, pori (puffed rice), fruits
- Coconut, betel leaves, areca nut
- Lamp, incense sticks, camphor
How to do it
- Clean the house, tie a thoranam (string) of mango leaves over the front door and draw a kolam.
- Draw a kolam on a manai (low wooden seat), or spread rice on a full banana leaf with its tip, and seat Vinayagar on it. Place the umbrella above him.
- Light the lamp and pray that the pooja goes on without any obstacle.
- Put sandalwood paste and kumkumam on Vinayagar and offer the arugampul and erukkam flower garland.
- Do archanai with arugampul and flowers while saying the names of Vinayagar. You may also chant a short Vinayagar mantra.
- Offer the kozhukattai, sundal and fruits, and break a coconut.
- Show the camphor aarathi, do thoppukaranam (squatting while holding your ears) and bow down.
- After the pooja, give the prasadam to everyone.
- After one or three days, dissolve Vinayagar in water, as your family does.
Please note
- A clay idol without chemical paint is best. You can dissolve it in a bucket of water and give the clay to your plants. This protects lakes and rivers.
This is only a general guide. If your family custom is different, follow that. Ask your elders and your priest.