Known as the Vighnaharta, Lord Ganesha is always worshipped at the beginning of any auspicious task or religious ceremony. Ganesha blesses his devotees with wisdom, success, and prosperity. While He is worshipped daily, Wednesday holds special significance and is considered the most auspicious day for His devotion. Chanting Ganpati stotras, mantras, and especially the Ganapati Atharvashirsha, a powerful Vedic hymn dedicated to Him, is believed to bring prosperity and remove negativity from life and home.
While reciting the Atharvashirsha Path, especially on Wednesdays—which are considered most auspicious for Ganesha worship—devotees must maintain purity and follow traditional practices. Importantly, there are certain items and practices that should be avoided during this ritual. Let’s look at what not to do during this sacred recitation.
Avoid These During Ganesh Atharvashirsha Path
1. Do Not Offer Broken Akshat (Rice Grains)
In Ganesha puja, Akshat (rice grains) symbolize wholeness and purity. Broken rice is considered inauspicious and must not be offered. Always use whole, clean grains for offering.
2. Avoid Tulsi (Holy Basil) Leaves
Unlike many Hindu deities who accept Tulsi leaves, Lord Ganesha strictly forbids it in his worship.
3. No White Flowers or Ketaki
Offering white flowers - especially Ketaki (screw pine) - is prohibited in Ganesha puja.
4. Never Use Dry or Stale Flowers
Always use fresh and fragrant flowers for Ganesha puja. Dry, wilted, or stale flowers are considered impure and are believed to attract poverty into the home.
5. Do Not Use White Sandalwood, Janeu (Sacred Thread), or White Flowers
As per legend, Chandra Dev (Moon God) once ridiculed Ganesha. In response, Lord Ganesha cursed him. Since then, items associated with the Moon - such as white sandalwood, white Janeu (sacred thread), and white flowers - are avoided during Ganesha puja.