Favorite Flowers of Lord Ganesha

Pooja is a form of worship done to establish a divine connection with God. Flowers form an integral part in worship of God. Flowers come from prakriti or nature and are offered to God in thanksgiving. Flowers attract the divine subtle particles in space through their petals and charge the atmosphere with spiritual vibrations. Specific flowers have the specific ability to attract the specific deities’ principle. The color and the fragrance of the flower possess the power to attract the principles of the deity and this benefits the worshipper.

When one offers fresh flowers to the deity with a spirit of surrender and devotion, it helps to increase the positive energies or the sattwic energies in a person. The deity becomes gratified and bestows the blessings of health, wealth and prosperity.

Lord Ganesha – God of knowledge

Lord Ganesha is the supreme manifestation of Brahman who removes obstacles and grants victories in endeavors. He is the pranava swarupa or the embodiment of AUM, the primordial cosmic sound. He is invoked before beginning any worldly, religious or spiritual activity.

Flowers used to please Lord Ganesha

Lord Ganesha is most pleased with offerings of red flowers. Red flowers are factors of Mars and Moon. Here are some other favorite flowers of Ganesha

Arka or erukku or milkweed- One worships Ganesha with these flowers to be free of all ailments. The leaves and flowers of the plant are used in the worship of Ganesha and Shiva.

 

Punnaga or Punnai- The glory of this flower is found in Lalita Sahasranama and is considered auspicious to offer Ganesha. Offering of this flower to Ganesha cures one of all ills, physical, mental and spiritual.

Vakula or Mahizham- Strings of garlands are made with these flowers and they give out a very sweet fragrance. One gets peace of mind by offering this flower to Ganesha.

Japaa or Hibiscus- This is a favorite flower of Lord Ganesha. It is called Japakusuma in Sanskrit. For all round prosperity and destruction of enemies, one should offer hibiscus.

Kadamba- The flowers are found in small yellow clusters and are associated with Goddess Parvati. Offering of this flower makes one very talented and skillful.

Dhadimi or Madhulai (pomegranate flowers) - Pomegranate leaves and flowers are offered to Ganesha for gifts of wealth.

Jathi Malli-These flowers have strong smell and are called winter jasmine. Couples having discord and frequent fights should make this offering to the Lord for peaceful married life.

Parijatha or Pavizhamalli - It is called queen of the night and also coral Jasmine.The flowers bloom only in the night and shed its petals in the day. Flowers are grown in small trees and have unique smell. The stalk of the flower is red and the petals look like jasmine. Children will do well in their life if this flower is offered with devotion to Ganesha.

Kundha or Mullai -They are called nithya mullai. They grow all throughout the year. Separation among family members, long standing court cases get resolved.

Karaveera or Arali or Oleander- It comes in three different colors- red, pink and white. Victory over enemies, success in examinations, profits in business is secured through this flower offering.

Saughandika (Javandhi)-It is a perennial plant and has a good fragrance. This flower offering removes evil eyes, bad effects of black magic and from adverse forces.

Kalhaara or Red water Lilly-This is used for all poojas and bestows auspiciousness. To secure a life of comfort and luxury offering of this fower is a must.

Ketaki or Thazhai or screw pine -These flowers are grown along river banks and are not used in Shiva pooja.

Champak-It is used for worship in Devi temples too. It is yellow in color and sweet smelling. Lord Krishna is said to have had particular preference to this flower. One is blessed to marry the person of his or her heart`s desire, when this flower is offered to Ganesha.

Datura-They are usually seen as weeds in open grounds and are called umathai in Sanskrit. Offering of this flower helps in the removal of bad name and reputation, slander and curses.

Techi or Chethi Flower-It is also called flame of the woods or jungle flame.It removes poverty, grief, sorrow and bestows positive vibrations.

Sanku Pushpam or Conch Flower-This is a white flower which is also called aparajitha. For early marriage one must make this flower offering.

Marigold Flowers-They are called chendumalli and offered to Ganesha. It is also used in decorating temples. Offering of this flower cures one of chronic diseases and gives good health.

Durva Grass-is an important offering to Lord Ganesha. No ritual or worship to Ganesha is complete without offering this blade of grass. One earns the grace of Lord Ganesha by offering this sacred grass.