As Ganesh Chaturthi festivities light up homes and pandals across the country, modak remains the most iconic offering to Lord Ganesha. But devotees will be surprised to know that Bappa’s palate goes well beyond this one sweet. Here is a look at other traditional bhog items that hold equal significance during the ten-day celebration.
Laddoo
Motichoor and besan laddoos are considered among Ganesha’s favourite sweets, often placed alongside modak during aarti. Their round shape is believed to symbolise completeness and prosperity, making them a common offering on the very first day of the festival.
Durva Grass
While not a food item, durva grass holds a special place in Ganesha worship. Legend has it that this humble grass cooled the deity’s stomach after he devoured an enormous quantity of modaks, and offering it is considered deeply auspicious.
Banana And Coconut
Fresh bananas and whole coconuts are staple offerings placed before the idol throughout the festival. Coconut, in particular, is seen as a symbol of purity and is often broken as part of the ritual before prasad distribution.
Puran Poli
In many Maharashtrian households, puran poli, a sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and lentils, is prepared as bhog, especially on days when the family observes a special puja or when guests are invited for darshan.
Payasam Or Kheer
South Indian devotees often offer payasam, while many North and West Indian homes prepare a bowl of kheer as prasad. Both dishes, made with rice or vermicelli, milk and jaggery or sugar, are believed to please Ganesha just as much as his beloved modak.
Jaggery And Til Ladoos
Given that Ganesh Chaturthi often falls close to the monsoon and early autumn season, offerings made with jaggery and sesame seeds are also common, believed to provide warmth and nourishment.
This Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees can go beyond the usual modak platter and explore these traditional offerings to seek Bappa’s blessings.
Khushi Patel is a Senior Sub Editor at NewsX, covering automotive, technology, Lifestyle, entertainment, and mainstream news. She previously worked as a Copy Editor at Times Network and has written automotive editorial content, including comparison pieces, for TimesDrive.
