Every year, millions of people eagerly await Ganesh Chaturthi to welcome 'Bappa'. It is one of India's most popular festivals, symbolizing the worship, devotion, and service of Lord Ganesha.

This year, Ganeshotsav will be celebrated starting Monday, September 14, 2026, and will continue for ten days.

Across India, *Ganpati pandals* (temporary marquees) are set up to mark the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, housing magnificent idols of Lord Ganesha. However, with changing times, one now sees a great deal of creativity in the depiction of these idols.

In some places, Lord Ganesha is portrayed as Mahadev (Shiva) or Narayana (Vishnu); elsewhere, he appears in the guise of sages and saints, or even with the faces of famous film characters or ordinary humans.

But have you ever wondered if a divine idol can be crafted in just any form? Is there a scriptural basis for worshipping customized idols of Lord Ganesha? Let us explore this.

Is worshipping customized idols right or wrong?
Hindu scriptures and texts define the distinct identity, form, and attributes of every deity. Nowhere in the Puranas or *Agama Shastras* is it written that the face of one deity should be superimposed onto the idol of another.

In fact, a deity's form is the manifest expression of their essential divine power. Altering the form of a deity's idol is considered a distortion.

An idol's form should strictly adhere to scriptural descriptions. Blending the appearance of another deity, a saint, or a human being into the idol is considered forbidden and contrary to scriptural norms.

Furthermore, the specific weapons (*ayudha*) and hand gestures (*mudra*) held by each deity are clearly defined. Just as Lord Vishnu holds a conch (*shankha*), a discus (*chakra*), and a mace (*gada*), Lord Ganesha is traditionally depicted holding a noose (*pasha*), a goad (*ankusha*), and a *modak* (sweet dumpling), while displaying the *Abhaya Mudra* (gesture of fearlessness). It is crucial to keep certain factors in mind when purchasing an idol of Lord Ganesha. If the idol is not crafted in accordance with the scriptures, it does not become infused with divine energy.

This time, when you go to buy an idol of Lord Ganesha before Ganesh Chaturthi, choose one that adheres to scriptural guidelines rather than opting for fancy or customized versions, and worship Him with a sincere heart.

PC Social Media