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32 Forms of Ganapati: Urdhva Ganapati - The 16th Form

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Introduction to Lord Ganapati

Urdhva Ganapati

Ganapati or Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is hailed as a remover of obstacles and a harbinger of success and is both loved and venerated. He has an elephant face, but also has a primordial form with a human head. He is celebrated as a hero of strength, as a happy dancer, as a sweet child and many more. It is considered a good custom to seek his blessings while starting any endeavor or undertaking any venture. Ganapati veneration is done from very ancient times, and Ganapatyam, the Ganapati worship, has been established by Saint Adi Shankara, as one of the six fundamental forms of worship in Hindu religion.

Significance of Urdhva Ganapati

Urdhva Ganapati is regarded as 19th among the 32 different forms of Ganapati. The Sanskrit word ‘Urdhva’ means ‘up,’ ‘upwards’ or ‘above,’ and here it means ‘lofty.’ Urdhva Ganapati hence denotes ‘the Lord, who is elevated or exalted.’ True to his name, Urdhva Ganapati is in a sublime form, sitting in the tantric posture and also seating his consort Shakti Devi on his left lap. He is shining in golden yellow color and has as many as eight hands, the main left of which gently embraces Shakti, while the principal right holds his own broken tusk. He holds, in his other six hands, a mace, a lotus, a blue lily, a sprig of paddy, a sugarcane bow, and an arrow. He is normally shown with his trunk curling near the breast of his consort.

This form of Ganesha can be seen as a painting in the Kerala capital Thiruvananthapuram and as a sculpture in some temples in Mysore region, where all the 32 Ganapati forms are on display. Urdhva Ganapati can also be worshipped in an idol form, in the Mahalingeshwara temple in the city of Madurai, in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Pooram Star, also known as Purva Phalguni Nakshatra is said to be related to this aspect of Ganapati.

Blessings of Worshipping Urdhva Ganapati

Urdhva Ganapati remains an elevator and a benefactor, who improves the lot of his devotees. It is believed that his worship would provide refuge to them from all difficulties, and help them to overcome impediments and rise high in life.

Mantra for Urdhva Ganapati

The mantra, which reads as under in Sanskrit, glorifies him as ’the raising Ganapati,’ describes his appearance and prays for his blessings.

Kalhaarshaali Kamala Khsukchaapabhaan

Dhantha prarohakghadhikako Jvalaangha

Aalinganodhyathkaro harithaangyashtyaa

Devyahaakarothu shubh mudhvaganaadhipo me

Chanting the Urdhva Ganapati mantra with faith, can be an effective means of propitiating the powerful Lord.

Connect With The Divine

The sacred scriptures prescribe fire ceremony, Abishekam (hydration ceremony), Pooja/Archana (Light and Sound ceremony), Yantra and Mantra (special sounds) as the ways to offer your prayer to the divine. Out of these, fire ceremony is the most evolved spiritual technology on earth to connect with the divine beings. Participate in the remedial services to clear your karma and receive the blessings.

Ganesha Pooja

Lord Ganesha is the chief deity of this powerful Pooja.

Ganesha Fire Lab

The Fire Lab performed in Lord Ganesha’s honor is unique and brings about a sea of change in your fortunes.

Ganesha Yantra

The Ganesha Yantra is a sacred energy device that infuses within you the power to focus and accomplish your goals.