Hey, lovely readers!
As Ganesha Utsav approaches, I’ve been reflecting on how we can deepen our connection with Lord Ganesha during these special days. Many of us participate in Murti Pooja, where we worship the beautiful idol of Ganesha, but what if we took this experience a step further?
This year, I’ve decided to add a personal, creative twist to my daily pooja, and I invite you to join me on this journey. Instead of simply admiring the idol, I plan to draw a new sketch of Ganesha every day. But here’s the catch—no cameras, no clicking pictures! The idea is to immerse ourselves fully in the moment, observe every detail of the Murti during the pooja, and then recreate it on paper from memory.
Why This Approach?
You might wonder, why not just take a picture? The beauty of this practice lies in mindfulness and devotion. By focusing on the Murti, we engage in a deeper form of meditation, noticing the intricate details, the expressions, the posture, and the energy that the idol exudes. When we later sit down to draw, we rely on our memory, which helps us internalize these observations and strengthens our bond with Ganesha.
Practical Steps to Get Started
- Choose Your Drawing Space: Set up a small corner in your home where you can comfortably draw after the pooja. Make sure it’s a place where you feel calm and inspired.
- Observe, Don’t Analyze: During the pooja, let go of the idea that you need to remember everything perfectly. Instead, focus on the essence of the Murti—what stands out to you? Is it the tilt of Ganesha’s trunk, the serene smile, or the way his hands hold the modaks? Absorb these details with your heart.
- Drawing Time: After the pooja, give yourself some time to let the image settle in your mind. Then, start sketching. Don’t worry about getting it perfect; the goal is to express your experience of Ganesha in that moment.
- Reflect and Repeat: Each day, compare your sketches. How does each drawing differ? What new details did you notice that you didn’t before? This reflection helps you see how your connection with Ganesha deepens with each passing day.
- Share Your Journey: If you’re comfortable, share your sketches with me or with your friends and family. It’s a beautiful way to inspire others and perhaps encourage them to start their own daily drawing practice.
Bringing the Practice into Daily Life
Beyond the drawings, this practice is about cultivating mindfulness and presence in our daily lives. Here are a few ways to bring this into your everyday routine:
- Morning Meditation: Spend a few minutes each morning in silence, visualizing the Ganesha you’ll see later in the day. This helps set a peaceful tone for the day.
- Mindful Observation: Throughout your day, try to apply the same mindful observation to your surroundings. Whether it’s during a walk or while having your tea, notice the details and let them sink in.
- Gratitude Journaling: After each drawing session, jot down a few things you’re grateful for that day. This keeps your heart open and connected to the divine.
Final Thoughts
I’m excited to embark on this creative and spiritual journey and would love for you to join me. Let’s see how our connection with Ganesha grows, one sketch at a time.
What do you think? Will you give this a try? Let’s start a conversation in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your experiences and see your drawings too!
With love and devotion, Team Nesswill