The Best Manager @ ICFAI Utsav 2008…

On 31 Jan 2008, we were informed that there is a InterCollegiate competition organized by the ICFAI National College, Hubli. It is a prestigious event in which a lot of colleges will participate. There were 5 events in which we were supposed to perform. And now, the surprise! “The fest will begin tomorrow”. It was evening 5 when we got the information and the next morning at 8, the fest was supposed to begin. Puzzled and confused, I gathered along with my friends and started planning to see if we could do something. We found that we had a quiz team and so, we dont need to bother about it. Further, there was a need to perform a dance show and none was ready for that. A round called Bindaas Bol (Speak your mind) was obviously meant for me. Another event called Prachaar which involved the marketing of a product was also taken up by me and another 2 students. An event called Icebreaker which was the introduction round also had my involvement. Now, the prestigious event of the function was, The Best Manager (Ustaad), and even this was given to me. We started preparing for the Icebreaker immediately. We had to present a fairy tale. After a lot of discussions and thoughts, we finanlized the script and make a few practices

And then, I had college football team selections. I went on with it. On the ground, I was interrupted and told that, there is a cultural program also. I left immediately and we started thinking, what has to be done. No one was getting an idea. So, I had to take the lead again and tell them, we’ll dance and I had to join this too. The practice went upto 10 in the night. I never ever danced in my life and this was a real impossible task. But, I knew, had I not joined and motivated, no one would perfrom in this

Tired and exhausted, I reached home and got asleep

The new month began and I packed up and moved to the collge in the early morning. I asked everyone to come and we had a some rehearsals, etc. We registered our team and the events began. Our team was named PARLE. There were a lot of problems that I faced again. I was not allowed to participate in the event, Prachaar, as I was supposed to participate in another event at the same time. Although there was enough time gap and I would definitely make up easily, I was still stopped. One of my teammates took my position in the event

And then, we performed the Icebreaker. Our story was about a king who has given everything to his beautiful daughter but never exposed her to the world. The princess wants freedom but never gets it. Things take a turn and finally, the king realizes his mistake. We had almost zero preparation but still, we managed to perform well. Further, we did the tale in Hindi, which was really difficult for the teammates to cope up immediately

Now began the hunt for the best manager. There were 18 college ustaads competing for this prestigious award. We were all given a objective type question paper which testing our reasoning skills, interpretation skills, verbal skills, analytical skills, data interpretation, general knowledge, etc. There were 60 questions and 60 minutes to answer them. I started writing the paper and exactly, the same moment, there was an announcement saying that the participants of Speak your mind were supposed to be on the stage immediately. I was totally struck again. I knew I was the 16th person to speak on the stage. Each person would be there on the stage for 2 minutes and at least 1 minute will go in entry and exit, etc. So, 3 x 15= 45 minutes. I started the test and went on like a hungry horse. And guess what, it was over n 22 minutes. No cross checks, no second thoughts, I just got up and handed over the paper and ran on to the stage

My turn came. The topic that I got was ‘Is performing tests on animals necessary?’

Hmmm… Had I continued to be a science student, it would be a simple task to me. But then, all my science knowledge has been deeply hidden somewhere in the deepest part of my brain. In a moment, I made that deepest part ready for the race and gave a best shot for the next 2 minutes on the topic. All said, I did excellent, but only results would say how I did

Now, the results of best managers was announced. Out of 18, 6 were eliminated. And I was the 2nd highest scorer in the test. A big surprise! And the very next moment, all the 12 participants were called out, locked in a cab that drove us to the college. All the function was being held at Sawai Gandharwa Hall. Now, in the college, we were given a case study of the Himalaya Drug Company. The company did many branding and rebranding exercises. We were asked to read the case study carefully and answer the questions asked. And also, to justify our answers. It was all an individual effort. After 15 minutes (we were still reading the case), all were asked to close everything and move to the computer lab. And guess what, they said, prepare a powerpoint presentation on the case in the next 15 minutes. I am used to make presentations. But making them ready in 15 minutes and that too with insufficient knowledge was a herculian task. I did that too. And next, they asked us to sit in another room and asked each of us to give a presentation on the powerpoint that we had prepared. Gussshhh!!! Most got frustrated. But, there was a need to perform and all did that. Even I gave a super shot presentation. As usual, hosh uda diye! The HR manager asked a few questions which were answered to the best I could. After all this, we all were brought back to the function hall. We were told that the results will be announced before dinner. And after dinner, we would have 1 more round to go

I joined my team which was ready with some more problems. The participants said that they will not perform as it would be an insult before everyone as we were not prepared for the same. However, my contention was, quitting will give us zero but even the worst performance will give us 1 point. After a hour long tussle, I made them agree. But then, what next? I never ever danced in my life. The people with me have not even practiced properly, they dont know the steps either, what to do? We just dared on went over the stage

And then… Each one in their own mood. It was the worst thing. But I loved it. We had planned to perform some stunts on the stage after the 3rd minute. So, I was taking the lead and moving further. But then, all that was not possible. We enjoyed these 3 minutes to the fullest

It was the time for dinner. But before, the results of the best manager. Out of 12, 6 students were eliminated and I was in the lucky six that got selected. I was delighted. We were supposed to move for the next round but as it was already 10.30 pm, things took a small change. We were asked to prepare a hand written business plan to set up an educational institution. And this had to be submitted by 8.30 am, the next day

I left the place and came home. Almost like a dead body. But then, I had promises to keep. I had a bath and started preparing the project report. It was another great task. Preparing a project for making profits is easy. But, this was a social project and I was totally exhausted and the head was bursting, no thoughts came up and things seemed very difficult. Suddenly, I thought, why not make a project report of a defence school rather than a business school or normal college. I knew that no one would ever think of this. My mood changed and I started gathering information. I used the Ajeet magazines, NCC books, etc for reference. But believe me, it got more tough. I kept reading whatever I got in my hand and it was 3.45 am. I lied down for some time and got up. Shocked to see the clock, it was already 6.15 am and I had not written a single word. I wanted to begin writing but there was no paper which I could use. Finally, I got it and started up. I used a very strategic style in writing. My key points were clearly mentioned as the acute shortage of officers in the armed forces and the need to groom a person when he is a child. I stressed upon the importance of all this and finally, the 6 page project was ready. It looked good. It was 8.15 am already and I was still in the bed suit. I just changed my trousers and raced to the function hall. Guess what! I was the first person to come there. The cut off time was 8.30, beyond which, negative marking would begin. Only 2 were able to come in time

I had the next event at 9.30 and it was already 9. I remembered that the pant that I was supposed to wear today was in the college. I had to go to the college to get it and then, I moved home. I had a quick bath, prayed God and got ready. I realized that I did not have a ironed shirt to wear. I just carried one and got it ironed on the way and changed it at the function hall. The first program for the day was the quiz competition and our college won the second place in this. Then, the results of the best manager were announced. The business plan round was a hardcore elimination round. Unfortunately, 3 out of 6 participants would be eliminated. And me, still held on and promoted to the next round. After all, my business plan was ‘The Parle School of Defence’

Immediately, the three finalists were called again. We were given a cricket bat and 4 balls to be sold to anyone. They were priced at a sum of Rs 500. An they could be sold at any rate. If we sell them above Rs 450, we get 100% marks for this round. I knew, no one would waste time selling these products at this time. Although we were sent out to sell, I just went and kept them in the college. I said that the bat has been damaged badly and no one will buy it. And so, kindly replace the bat. But then, I was told to sell it at Rs 100 less and I would still get 100% marks. We were also given Rs 50 as petrol allowance. Now, I thought, there is a bat and 4 leather balls and I have to sell them at Rs 450 at least. After reduction due to damage, my selling price must at least be Rs 350. I had received Rs 50 for petrol and I could use that too. So, all these 5 itmes will cost me Rs 300. I asked my friends if that was worth. All said yes. So, I immediately gave Rs 351 and closed the deal with 100% marks!!!

The moment I returned, the second round of Speak your mind began. Here, we would be given a topic and 1 minute to think. And then, we have to speak 2 minutes for the topic and 2 minutes against the topic on spot. I got the topic ‘Parliament expenses are a waste of public money’. I did well. But then, a new big problem arose. I was disqualified from the event as I was participating in the best manager. However, there was no such rule mentioned anywhere by anyone. There were people who has done this. But they all were already eliminated and so, they were not seen. And it would not be right on my part to pin point on others. We all made it very clear to them that the rule was never told to us. After a lot of effort, we were told that, they will think about it and let us know. But I knew, the show was spoilt. It hurt a lot. If I had been told this before, I would have at least made someone else to participate. Yesterday, I partipated in the first round of both these events and there was no opposition at all. Now, when they see that I am almost winning both of them, they started this twist. There was no option for us other than accepting what they tell

The very next minute, the 3 finalists of best manager were called. This was the most important round which was aimed to stress the candidates and see how they perform. I was taken to a room and made to sit for some time. Then, I was blindfolded and there were n number of things put on me like flowers, papers, designery items, etc and after 20 minutes, I was taken in the same condition to the stage. All of a sudden, the blindfold was opened and the whole audience started shouting. There were 2 judges who had plans to screw up everything and make me lose. There was an endless conversation under all conditions. Some of the highlights are

• The interviewer asks you to sit and if you sit, he says, who asked you to sit on the chair. So, I sat on the floorA girl comes with a rose and interrupts and he says she is your girlfriend and you are more worried about her than the job. So, I never bothered about her at all
• A guy comes with a pepsi and offers it. He’s not ready to leave you and the judge says, you have lost concentration. I said-”get out pepsi, I am more worried about the job”
• He asked how much does a cricket ball bounce. I just said it depends on the pressure or force applied and the height from which it is dropped. He asked me the exact measurement. I just held my view
• He asked me the distance between the boundary line and the spectator. I said it depends on where the spectator is sitting. He asked me to tell it in exact measurement. I said- “Distance between stumps and spectator minus the radius of the ground”. I saw a blink on his face which was a good sign for me
• He asked me to sell condoms to the other judge. And the other judge says, he is not interested to buy as he and his wife want to build a cricket team. He made me speechless saying that his wife doesnt like them at all and there is no fear of AIDS either as she is his only partner. Now, next. The other judge says, the product is still unsold. I tried again but the response was the same. So, I just told- “There is no meaning in selling a comb to a bald person”. Impressed!

There were many serious discussions, negative remarks, tussles, etc that went on continously. I was pulled completely. But under all this condition, one thing that I never lost was, A CONFIDENT SMILE. They tried from the first moment to break this confidence but its the Great Wall of China built in SSBJ, how can it ever break??? They teased me continuously asking me to join a toothpaste company, etc but I just kept everything lively and natural

And guess what, I was not wearing socks… They saw that (as I sat down) and asked me why. I said I lost them yesterday during the dance competition and as it was late night, I could not find any shop open to buy them. And today, I am feeling more comfortable wothout socks

Finally, they asked me, tell 5 qualities that you have for which you must be selected. I knew, this is the most important question of all. All that has happened earlier was mainly to divert our mind away from ourselves and finally, put ourselved in such a position that we forget our own strength. Par bhai, humne tho kaha hai na, yeh Great Wall of SSBJ hai. I was always cool, calm, confident and getting more and more stronger. I said

1. I am grown in an environment of leaders
2. I can manage a team
3. While I lead, I am more a team player than merely a leader
4. I can make right in a short time
5. I perform better under stress

I think, these perfect 5 points would have never come from my mouth if I had not been patient and confident. I believe, the last point made a great difference to the show

Things came to an end and I was happy with my performance

We waited long and finally, all the results were out. As mentioned, we were second in quiz

Although I was second in Speak your mind, they had disqualified me

And finally, the main prize- THE BEST MANAGER

Till now, all the prizes were given in the order 3rd, 2nd and 1st

My name was called. All my team mates were happy but I got up sadly as I was expecting the first prize. I went on the stage and got a certificate and a trophy. I did not even see anyone on the stage properly nor what I got. I just turned back and came down and walked back to my seat. But then, the announcer directly concluded prize distribution. I was still walking towards my seat and I just saw my certificate. It said, I was FIRST. I was surprized and signalled it to the team members. All shouted and what a delightful moment it was! To confirm, I saw my trophy and it was clearly inscribed, BEST MANAGER. My God! It was a real big surprise again!!!
My efforts paid me. A million thanks to the God. 90% of the colleges that participated in the fest were all reputed management institutes. But then, me, being a commerce student, getting the best manager award, was a great achievement

Its 00.30 am now and I need to go to bed. I have another competition tomorrow at Dharwad. I need to leave Hubli by 8 and so, I have to get up by 6 at least. Further, I have not yet prepared the script for speaking. Moreover, its in kannada and unfortunately, I am still not able to shape up my kannada spaking skills

Thanks a lot God. I am very grateful to you

Wish everyone a very happy deepawali !!!

Diwali, Divali, or Deepawali is a major Indian and Nepalese festive holiday. What started as a harvest festival in ancient times, became associated with many legends and became a significant festival in Hinduism and all the faiths which originated in India – Jainism and Sikhism. Today it is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across the globe as the “Festival of Light,” where the lights or lamps signify victory of good over the evil within every human being

The most popular legend associated with Diwali today is the homecoming of King Rama of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile in the forest. The people of Ayodhya (the capital of his kingdom) welcomed Rama by lighting rows (avali) of lamps (deepa), thus its name, Deepawali, or simply shortened as Diwali

Some view it as the day Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura or in honor of the day Bali went to rule the nether-world by the order of Vishnu

In Jainism it marks the nirvana of Lord Mahavira, which occurred on Oct. 15, 527 B.C

The Sikhs have always celebrated Diwali, however its significance increased historically when on this day the Sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, was freed from imprisonment along with 52 Hindu Kings (political prisoners) whom he had arranged to be released as well. These prisoners were all released at the same time from the famous fort of Gwalior by Emperor Jahangir in October, 1619. Since the kings were also freed, Guru Ji became known popularly as the “Bandi Chhorh” (deliverer from prison). He arrived at Amritsar on Diwali, and the HarMandar Sahib (the “Golden Temple”) was lit with hundreds of lamps in celebration. For Sikhs, this day was thereafter known as the “Bandi Chhorh Divas” (the day of freedom)

In India, Diwali is now considered to be a national festival, and the aesthetic aspect of the festival is enjoyed by most Indians regardless of faith

Dates in various calendars

The festival is celebrated for a differing number of days by different communities. Though the core days are common and fall on exactly the same set of days across Nepal and India, they fall in different Gregorian months depending on the version of the Hindu calendar being used in the given region. The Amanta (“ending on the new-moon”) version of the Hindu Calendar has been adopted as the Indian national calendar. According to this calendar, which is prevalent in southern India and Maharashtra, the 6-day celebration is spread over the last four days of the month of Ashwayuja (Ashwin in Marathi) and the first two days of the new month of Kartika. According to the Purnimanta (“ending on the full-moon”) version prevalent in northern India, it falls in the middle of the month of Ashwayuja/Ashvin. In the Gregorian calendar, it falls generally in the months of October or November. In 2006, it was celebrated on October 21, a Saturday. In 2007 it will be celebrated on November 9, a Friday

Stories related to Divali
Hindus have several significant mythological events associated with it

Return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya: Divali also celebrates the return of Lord Rama, King of Ayodhya, with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after a 14 year exile, and a war in which he killed the demon king Ravana. It is believed that the people of Ayodhya lit oil lamps along the way to light their path in the darkness. Since Lord Rama traveled from South India to his kingdom in North India, he passed through the south earlier. This is the reason why the festival is celebrated a day earlier in South India. In North India, the festival is held on the final day of the Vikram calendar. The following day marks the beginning of the North Indian new year, and is called Annakut

The Killing of Narakasura

Celebrated as Naraka Chaturdasi, two days before Divali day, it commemorates the killing of Narakasura, an evil demon who created havoc, by Lord Krishna’s wife Satyabhama. This happened in the Dwapar Yuga during this time of Lord Krishna’s avatar. In another version, the demon was killed by Lord Krishna (Lord krishna provokes his wife Satyabhama to kill Narakasura by pretending to be injured by the demon. Narakasura can only be killed by his mother, Satyabhama) himself. Before Narakasura’s death, he requested a boon from his mother, Satyabhama (believed to be an Avatar of Bhudevi – Narakasura’ mother), that everyone should celebrate his death with colorful light

Austerities of Shakti

According to the Skanda Purana, the goddess Shakti observed 21 days of austerity starting from ashtami of shukla paksha (eighth day of the waxing period of moon) to get half of the body of Lord Shiva. This vrata (austerity) is known as kedhara vrata. Deepavali is the completion day of this austerity. This is the day Lord Shiva accepted Shakti into the left half of the form and appeared as Ardhanarishvara. The ardent devotees observe this 21 days vrata by making a kalasha with 21 threads on it and 21 types of offerings for 35 days. The final day is celebrated as kedhara gauri vrata

Krishna defeating Indra

Govardhan Puja is celebrated the day after Diwali. It is the day Lord Krishna defeated Indra, the deity of thunder and rain. As per the story, Krishna saw huge preparations for the annual offering to Lord Indra and questions his father Nanda about it. He debated with the villagers about what their ‘dharma’ truly was. They were farmers, they should do their duty and concentrate on farming and protection of their cattle. He continued to say that all human beings should merely do their ‘karma’, to the best of their ability and not pray for natural phenomenon. The villagers were convinced by Krishna, and did not proceed with the special puja (prayer). Indra was then angered, and flooded the village. Krishna then lifted Mt Govardhan and held it up as protection to his people and cattle from the rain. Indra finally accepted defeat and recognized Krishna as supreme. This aspect of Krishna’s life is mostly glossed over – but it actually set up the basis of the ‘karma’ philosophy later detailed in the Bhagavat Gita. Bali’s return to the nether world:In Bhavishyottara and Brahma Vaivarta Purana, Divali is associated with the Daitya king Bali, who is allowed to return to earth once a year. However in Kerala this is the reason ‘Onam’ is celebrated. ‘Onam’ festival falls around the month of August-September.

The Five days of Diwali
Divali celebrations are spread over five days in most of North India. All the days except Divali are named according to their designation in the Hindu calendar

Divali being festival of lights, across India people celebrate it via symbolic diyas or kandils (colorful paper lanterns) as an integral part of Divali decorations

Dhanatrayodashi or Dhan teras

Dhan means “wealth” and Trayodashi means “13th day”. Thus, as the name implies, this day falls on the 13th day of the second half of the lunar month. It is an auspicious day for shopping of utensils and gold.This day is also regarded as the Jayanti of God Dhanvantri who came out during the churning of the great ocean by the gods and the demons

Dhanvantri Jayanti Naraka Chaturdashi

Chaturdashi is the fourteenth day on which demon Narakasura was killed. It signifies the victory of good over evil and light over darkness (Gujarati: Kali Chaudas).In south India, this is the actual day of festivities. Hindus wake up way before dawn as early as 2:00 in the morning, have a fragrant oil bath and wear new clothes. They light small lamps all around the house and draw elaborate kolams /rangolis outside their homes. They perform a special puja with offerings to Lord Sri Krishna or Lord Sri Vishnu, as he liberated the world from the demon Narakasura on this day. It is believed that taking a bath before sunrise, when the stars are still visible in the sky is equivalent to taking a bath in the holy Ganges. Hence, when people greet each other in the morning, they ask “Have you performed your Ganga Snaanam?”.

After the puja, children burst firecrackers heralding the defeat of the demon. As this is a day of rejoicing, many will have very elaborate breakfasts and lunches and meet family and friends. In the evening, lamps are again lit and Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped and offered special dishes. This being a no moon day, many will offer special tarpana (offerings of water and sesame seeds) to their ancestors. This day is also called as Roop Chaturdashi

Lakshmi Puja

Lakshmi Puja, marks the most important day of Divali celebrations, when Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and Ganesha, the God of auspicious beginnings are worshipped across Hindu homes, followed by lighting of lamps all across the streets and homes, to welcome prosperity and well-being in

Govardhan Puja

Also called Annakut, is celebrated as the day Krishna defeated Indra. For Annakut a mountain of food is decorated symbolizing Govardhan mountain lifted by Lord Krishna. In Maharashtra it is celebrated as Padva or BaliPratipada. The day commemorates King Bali. Men present gifts to their wives on this day

Bhaiduj (also Bhayyaduj, Bhaubeej or Bhayitika)

On this day, brothers and sisters meet to express their love and affection for each other (Gujarati: Bhai Bij, Bengali: Bhai Phota). Most Indian festivals bring together families, Bhaiduj brings together married sisters and brothers, and is a significant festive day for them. This festival is ancient, and pre-dates ‘Raksha Bandhan’ another brother-sister festival being celebrated today

The celebrations vary in different regions:
In Southern India, naraka chaturdashi is the main day, with firecrackers at dawn. The main festival in North India is on Amavasya (No moon) evening with Lakshmi Puja which is followed by lighting of oil lamps around the house.

Esoteric Significance

While Deepavali is popularly known as the “festival of lights”, the most significant esoteric meaning is “the awareness of the inner light”.Central to Hindu philosophy, is the assertion that there is something beyond the physical body and mind which is pure, infinite, and eternal, called the Atman. Just as we celebrate the birth of our physical being, Deepavali is the celebration of this Inner Light, in particular the knowing of which outshines all darkness (removes all obstacles and dispels all ignorance), awakening the individual to one’s true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite, imminent and transcendent reality. With the realization of the Atman, comes universal compassion, love, and the awareness of the oneness of all things (higher knowledge). This brings Ananda (Inner Joy or Peace).Deepawali celebrates this through festive fireworks, lights, flowers, sharing sweets, and worship. While the story behind Deepavali varies from region to region, the essence is the same – to rejoice in the Inner Light (Atman) or the underlying reality of all things (Brahman).

Its Ganesh Chathurti today…

Ganesha — the elephant-deity riding a mouse — has become one of the commonest mnemonics for anything associated with Hinduism. This not only suggests the importance of Ganesha, but also shows how popular and pervasive this deity is in the minds of the masses

The Lord of Success

The son of Shiva and Parvati, Ganesha has an elephantine countenance with a curved trunk and big ears, and a huge pot-bellied body of a human being. He is the Lord of success and destroyer of evils and obstacles. He is also worshipped as the god of education, knowledge, wisdom and wealth. In fact, Ganesha is one of the five prime Hindu deities (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Durga being the other four) whose idolatry is glorified as the panchayatana puja

Significance of the Ganesha Form

Ganesha’s head symbolizes the Atman or the soul, which is the ultimate supreme reality of human existence, and his human body signifies Maya or the earthly existence of human beings. The elephant head denotes wisdom and its trunk represents Om, the sound symbol of cosmic reality. In his upper right hand Ganesha holds a goad, which helps him propel mankind forward on the eternal path and remove obstacles from the way. The noose in Ganesha’s left hand is a gentle implement to capture all difficulties

The broken tusk that Ganesha holds like a pen in his lower right hand is a symbol of sacrifice, which he broke for writing the Mahabharata. The rosary in his other hand suggests that the pursuit of knowledge should be continuous. The laddoo (sweet) he holds in his trunk indicates that one must discover the sweetness of the Atman. His fan-like ears convey that he is all ears to our petition. The snake that runs round his waist represents energy in all forms. And he is humble enough to ride the lowest of creatures, a mouse

How Ganesha Got His Head

The story of the birth of this zoomorphic deity, as depicted in the Shiva Purana, goes like this: Once goddess Parvati, while bathing, created a boy out of the dirt of her body and assigned him the task of guarding the entrance to her bathroom. When Shiva, her husband returned, he was surprised to find a stranger denying him access, and struck off the boy’s head in rage. Parvati broke down in utter grief and to soothe her, Shiva sent out his squad (gana) to fetch the head of any sleeping being who was facing the north. The company found a sleeping elephant and brought back its severed head, which was then attached to the body of the boy. Shiva restored its life and made him the leader (pati) of his troops. Hence his name ‘Ganapati’. Shiva also bestowed a boon that people would worship him and invoke his name before undertaking any ventureHowever, there’s another less popular story of his origin, found in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana: Shiva asked Parvati to observe the punyaka vrata for a year to appease Vishnu in order to have a son. When a son was born to her, all the gods and goddesses assembled to rejoice on its birth. Lord Shani, the son of Surya (Sun-God), was also present but he refused to look at the infant. Perturbed at this behaviour, Parvati asked him the reason, and Shani replied that his looking at baby would harm the newborn. However, on Parvati’s insistence when Shani eyed the baby, the child’s head was severed instantly. All the gods started to bemoan, whereupon Vishnu hurried to the bank of river Pushpabhadra and brought back the head of a young elephant, and joined it to the baby’s body, thus reviving it

Ganesha, the Destroyer of Pride

Ganesha is also the destroyer of vanity, selfishness and pride. He is the personification of material universe in all its various magnificent manifestations. “All Hindus worship Ganesha regardless of their sectarian belief,” says D N Singh in A Study of Hinduism. “He is both the beginning of the religion and the meeting ground for all Hindus.”

How to celebrate the great Ganesh Chaturthi festival?

The devotees of Ganesha are known as ‘Ganapatyas’, and the festival to celebrate and glorify him is called Ganesh Chaturthi

A life-like clay model of Lord Ganesha is made 2-3 months prior to the day of Ganesh Chaturthi. The size of this idol may vary from 3/4th of an inch to over 25 feetOn the day of the festival, it is placed on raised platforms in homes or in elaborately decorated outdoor tents for people to view and pay their homage. The priest, usually clad in red silk dhoti and shawl, then invokes life into the idol amidst the chanting of mantras. This ritual is the pranapratishhtha. After this the shhodashopachara (16 ways of paying tribute) follows. Coconut, jaggery, 21 modakas (rice flour preparation), 21 durva (trefoil) blades and red flowers are offered. The idol is anointed with red unguent (rakta chandan). Throughout the ceremony, Vedic hymns from the Rig Veda and Ganapati Atharva Shirsha Upanishad, and Ganesha stotra from the Narada Purana are chanted

For 10 days, from Bhadrapad Shudh Chaturthi to the Ananta Chaturdashi, Ganesha is worshipped

On the 11th day, the image is taken through the streets in a procession accompanied with dancing, singing, to be immersed in a river or the sea symbolizing a ritual see-off of the Lord in his journey towards his abode in Kailash while taking away with him the misfortunes of all man. All join in this final procession shouting “Ganapathi Bappa Morya, Purchya Varshi Laukariya” (O father Ganesha, come again early next year). After the final offering of coconuts, flowers and camphor is made, people carry the idol to the river to immerse it

The whole community comes to worship Ganesha in beautifully done tents. These also serve as the venue for free medical checkup, blood donation camps, charity for the poor, dramatic performances, films, devotional songs, etc. during the days of the festival

On the Ganesh Chaturthi day, meditate on the stories connected with Lord Ganesha early in the morning, during the Brahmamuhurta period. Then, after taking a bath, go to the temple and do the prayers of Lord Ganesha. Offer Him some coconut and sweet pudding. Pray with faith and devotion that He may remove all the obstacles that you experience on the spiritual path. Worship Him at home, too. You can get the assistance of a pundit. Have an image of Lord Ganesha in your house. Feel His Presence in it

Don’t forget NOT to look at the moon on that day; remember that it behaved unbecomingly towards the Lord. This really means avoid the company of all those who have no faith in God, and who deride God, your Guru and religion, from this very day

Take fresh spiritual resolves and pray to Lord Ganesha for inner spiritual strength to attain success in all your undertakings

May the blessings of Sri Ganesha be upon you all! May He remove all the obstacles that stand in your spiritual path! May He bestow on you all material prosperity as well as liberation

Get Ganesha on Your Cellphone

Wondering how to get Ganesha on your cellphone? It’s easy to wish “May Lord Ganesha Bless You” to a dear one by sending a picture SMS on her cellphone. Here’s how to create a Ganesha image on your mobile phone. Just key in equals (=), full stops (.), parenthesis, quotation marks (“), commas (,) slashes (/) and a note of exclamation (!) in the order shown in the figure on the right, and you’re done!You’re sure to get forwarded many many times… and spread the message of Ganesha’s love and blessings

This is how your SMS would look

= ! =

( ”’. ‘ .”’ )

//

((,,

The 108 Holy Names of Ganesha

Sri Vinayaka Ashtottara Sata Namavali

Om Vinayakaya Namaha- Adoration to the Peerless One
Om Vighnarajaya Namaha- Adoration to the Ruler of Obstacles
Om Gauripatraya Namaha- Adoration to the Son of Gauri
Om Ganesvaraya Namaha- Adoration to the Lord of Categories
Om Skandagrajaya Namaha- Adoration to the First-born, Skanda’s Elder
Om Avyayaya Namaha- Adoration to the Inexhaustible One
Om Putaya Namaha- Adoration to the Pure One
Om Dakshaya Namaha- Adoration to the Skillful One
Om Adhyakshaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who presides
Om Dvijapriyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of the twice-born
Om Agnigarbhachide Namaha- Adoration to Him who contains fire within
Om Indrasripradaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of Power to Indra
Om Vanipradaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of Speech
Om Avyayaya Namaha- Adoration to the Inexhaustible One
Om Sarvasiddhipradaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of All Fulfillment
Om Sarvatanayaya Namaha- Adoration to the Son of Siva
Om Sarvaripriyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of night
Om Sarvatmakaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is the soul of all
Om Srishtikatre Namaha- Adoration to the Creator
Om Devaya Namaha- Adoration to the Resplendent One
Om Anekarchitaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is worshipped by multitudes
Om Sivaya Namaha- Adoration to the Auspicious One
Om Suddhaya Namaha- Adoration to the Pure One
Om Buddhipriyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of intelligence
Om Santaya Namaha- Adoration to the Peaceful One
Om Brahmacharine Namaha- Adoration to Him who is celibate
Om Gajananaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has an elephant’s face
Om Dvaimatreyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has two mothers
Om Munistutyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is praised by sages
Om Bhaktavighnavinasanaya Namaha- Adoration to the Destoyer of Devotees’ obstacles
Om Ekadantaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has one tusk

Om Chaturbahave Namaha- Adoration to Him who has four arms
Om Chaturaya Namaha- Adoration to the Ingenious One
Om Saktisamyutaya Namaha- Adoration to the Powerful One
Om Lambodaraya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has a large belly
Om Surpakarnaya Namaha- Adoration to Him whose ears are like winnowing fans
Om Haraye Namaha- Adoration to Him who is lion-like
Om Brahmaviduttamaya Namaha- Adoration to the foremost knower of Brahman
Om Kalaya Namaha- Adoration to the Embodiment of Time
Om Grahapataye Namaha- Adoration to the Lord of Planets
Om Kamine Namaha- Adoration to Him who is love
Om Somasuryagnilochanaya Namaha- Adoration to Him whose eyes are the sun & the moon
Om Pasankusadharaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who weilds the noose and goad
Om Chandaya Namaha- Adoration to Him whose actions are rhythmical
Om Gunatitaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who transcends qualities
Om Niranjanaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is without blemish
Om Akalmashaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is without impurity
Om Svayamsiddhaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who achieved fulfillment by himself
Om Siddharchitapadambujaya Namaha- Adoration to Him whose lotus feet sages worship
Om Bijapuraphalasaktaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of pomegranates
Om Varadaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of Boons
Om Sasvataya Namaha- Adoration to the Unchanging One
Om Krutine Namaha- Adoration to Him who works incessantly
Om Dvijapriyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of the twice-born
Om Vitabhayaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is free from fear
Om Gadine Namaha- Adoration to Him who weilds the mace
Om Chakrine Namaha- Adoration to Him who wields the discus
Om Ikshuchapadhrite Namaha- Adoration to Him who holds the sugarcane bow
Om Sridaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of Wealth
Om Ajaya Namaha- Adoration to the Unborn One
Om Utpalakaraya Namaha- Adoration to Him who hold the blue lotus blossom
Om Sripataye Namaha- Adoration to the Lord of Wealth
Om Stutiharshitaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who rejoices in praise
Om Kuladribhettre Namaha- Adoration to Him who supports the mountain ranges
Om Jatilaya Namaha- Adoration to the Intricate One
Om Kalikalmashanasanaya Namaha- Adoration to the Destroyer of Kali’s Impurity
Om Chandrachudamanaye Namaha- Adoration to Him who wears a moon on his head
Om Kantaya Namaha- Adoration to the Beloved One
Om Papaharine Namaha- Adoration to the Destroyer of Wickedness
Om Samahitaya Namaha- Adoration to the Attentive One
Om Asritaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is our refuge
Om Srikaraya Namaha- Adoration to Him who manifests prosperity
Om Saumyaya Namaha- Adoration to the Pleasant One
Om Bhaktavanchitadayakaya Namaha- Adoration to the Grantor of Devotees’ Desires
Om Santaya Namaha- Adoration to the Peaceful One
Om Kaivalyasukhadaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of Absolute Happiness
Om Sachidanandavigrahaya Namaha- Adoration to Him whose form is Existence/Knowledge/Bliss
Om Jnanine Namaha- Adoration to the Wise One
Om Dayayutaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is full of compassion
Om Dantaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has self control
Om Brahmadveshavivarjitaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is free from aversion to the Supreme
Om Pramattadaityabhayadaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is feared by power intoxicated men
Om Srikanthaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has a beautiful throat
Om Vibhudesvaraya Namaha- Adoration to the Lord of the Wise
Om Ramarchitaya Namaha- Adoration to the God worshipped by Rama
Om Vidhaye Namaha- Adoration to the Controller of Destiny
Om Nagarajayajnopavitavate Namaha- Adoration to Him who wears a cobra as a sacred thread
Om Sthulakanthaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has a stout neck
Om Svayamkartre Namaha- Adoration to Him who acts independently
Om Samaghoshapriyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of the sound of Sama Veda
Om Parasmai Namaha- Adoration to Him for whom there is no other
Om Sthulatundaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who has a stout trunk
Om Agranye Namaha- Adoration to the First-Born
Om Dhiraya Namaha- Adoration to the Courageous One
Om Vagisaya Namaha- Adoration to the Lord of Speech
Om Siddhidayakaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of Fulfillment
Om Durvabilvapriyaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of durva and bilva
Om Avyaktamurtaye Namaha- Adoration to the Manifestation of the Unmanifest
Om Adbhutamurtimate Namaha- Adoration to the Wondrous Form
Om Sailendratanujotsanga Khelanotsukamanasaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is fond of playing with His mother Paravati, daughter of the mountain Lord
Om Svalavanyasudhasarajita Manmathavigrahaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who is a vast ocean of sweetness more charming than the God of love
Om Samastajagadadharaya Namaha- Adoration to the Supporter of All the Worlds
Om Mayine Namaha- Adoration to the Source of Illusory Power
Om Mushikavahanaya Namaha- Adoration to Him who rides the mouse
Om Hrushtaya Namaha- Adoration to the Rapturous One
Om Tushtaya Namaha- Adoration to the Content One
Om Prasannatmane Namaha- Adoration to the Benign One
Om Sarvassiddhipradayakaya Namaha- Adoration to the Bestower of All Fulfillment