Gaṇapati Homam

Removing obstacles at a new beginning

Purpose: to invoke Gaṇeśa's blessing before a new venture — a house, a business, a marriage — and for removal of obstacles. In Kerala and much of the South it is a common early-morning rite, and it often precedes other homams.

When: Chaturthī tithis, Wednesdays, or before any new start. Offerings include modaka, sugarcane, dūrvā grass and the aṣṭadravya (eight items) in Kerala tradition. Main mantra: “oṃ gaṃ gaṇapataye svāhā.” A simple version can be done at home; the full homam is usually done by a priest.

Chaturthī, Wednesday · Self (simple) or priest

Homam — the sacred fire offering · Ask a Jyotishi your own question