Ganesha Pooja is a sacred Hindu ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity known as the remover of obstacles, the god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. Ganesha is revered at the start of any significant endeavor, be it a personal, professional, or spiritual pursuit, to ensure success and remove any hindrances. The Pooja can be performed daily, on special occasions like Ganesh Chaturthi, or before the start of any new venture. Tuesdays and Chaturthi (the fourth day of the lunar month) are considered especially auspicious for Ganesha worship. The ceremony typically begins with devotees cleaning the area and setting up an altar with an idol or image of Lord Ganesha, which is decorated with fresh flowers, garlands, and durva grass, one of Ganesha's favorite offerings.

The Pooja starts with an invocation, where devotees seek Lord Ganesha’s presence through prayers and mantras. The most common mantra recited is the "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah," invoking Ganesha’s blessings. This is followed by offering items such as modaks (sweet dumplings), fruits, coconut, and betel leaves. Modaks are considered Ganesha's favorite sweet, symbolizing the fulfillment of desires. An essential part of Ganesha Pooja is the application of a tilak (mark) on the idol using kumkum (red powder) and sandalwood paste. Incense, oil lamps (diyas), and camphor are lit as part of the ritual to purify the surroundings and please the deity. Devotees often recite the Ganesha Atharvashirsha, a Vedic hymn dedicated to Ganesha, which is believed to bestow wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment.

The aarti, a devotional song accompanied by the waving of lit lamps before the idol, is performed toward the end of the Pooja. This creates an atmosphere of deep devotion and is an offering of light and love to the deity. Devotees also offer prayers for the removal of obstacles in their personal and professional lives, seeking Ganesha’s guidance for success, peace, and prosperity. In addition to the individual prayers, Ganesha Pooja is often performed in homes and temples during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, where the idol is worshipped for several days before being immersed in water, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode.