05/09/2024
Here is a Sanskrit prayer by Adi Shankaracharya that captures the essence of the Parabrahma—the supreme formless reality—while connecting it with the beloved form of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
अजं निर्विकल्पं निराकारमॆकं
निरानंदमानंदमद्वैतपूर्णं
परं निर्गुणं निर्विशॆषं निरीहं
परब्रह्मरूपं गणॆशं भजॆम ॥
“Ajam Nirvikalpam Nirakaram Ekam;
Niranandam Anandam Advaita Purnam;
Param Nirgunam Nirvishesham Nireeham;
Parabrahma Roopam Ganesham Bhajema”
It reminds us that Ganesha, though often depicted in various forms, is ultimately a reflection of the formless divine.
Following our family tradition of creating Ganesha from turmeric and rice flour, we teach our children about o the deeper purpose of this festival—honoring nature, the cycle of life, and our connection to the Earth. This practice not only brings devotion and affection of giving "form" to our beloved deity, but also sustainability, blending the divine with environmental consciousness.
Indeed, the growing conversation around sustainability during Ganesh Chaturthi is significant. The festival’s essence is not in large, artificial idols but in the symbolism of Ganesha’s return to the Earth—reminding us of our duty to preserve the environment. Encouraging the use of natural, eco-friendly materials helps bring the focus back to the sacred and sustainable origins of the festival.
Replicating the spirit of Ganesha through nature aligns with the true purpose of this celebration. May we all strive to honor our traditions with practices that reflect our respect for the Earth and the divine.
Parabrahma Roopam Ganesham Bhajeham🙏🙏