As per the rituals and traditions, those who believe in Lord Ganesha invite him to their homes for prosperity and wealth. Symbolized by an idol, Lord Ganesha is flooded with prayers and a great sense of reverence. After these 10 days of devotion and prayers, his journey comes to an end and he is thanked for all the blessings which he brought with him.
Moreover, Anant Chaturdashi also has a brief history that comes with it.
Anant Chaturdashi's Past
The Ganesh Visarjan is said to have started during the Maratha Empire, specifically under the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji, according to the myths, tales, and beliefs. Nevertheless, because of the atrocities that the British Raj perpetrated against the Indians, this merrymaking ritual was largely put out of commission during that time. Yet, it was brought back to life during the Indian struggle as a constant source of inspiration for the independence fighters.
Anant Chaturdashi History
According to the myths, lore, and traditions, we may assume that the Ganesh Visarjan first took place during the Maratha Empire, particularly during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji. Due to the atrocities committed against Indians by the British Raj, this merrymaking practise was somewhat put out of commission, but it was brought back to life during the Indian struggle as a constant source of inspiration for the independence warriors.
They passed from a neighbouring river while they were moving. Kaundinya saw the water and decided to take a bath to temporarily cool off.
His wife Sushila noticed some women praying close as he was taking a bath. She joined them out of curiosity and inquired about their worship, to which they replied that they were honouring Anant and went on to explain the significance of his pledge. One of the most important festivals in Maharashtra is Anant Chaturdashi.
Anant Chaturdashi Festival: The Vow
They informed Sushila that some fried flour and Anarase needed to be made in accordance with the pledge. Half of these foods are served to the Brahmins after preparation.
Next, for worship, a cobra made of holy grass named Darbha is placed in a bamboo basket. An oil lamp, incense sticks, and fragrant flowers are among the worship supplies. The snake is provided with some of the prepared meal.
A silk string is attached to the devotees' wrists at the conclusion of this. The name of this string is Anant. It is often coloured with kumkum and has 14 knots. Both men and women tie the knot in their left hands.
The Goal Of This Promise
To obtain divine purity and wealth is the fundamental goal of this pledge. The followers maintain this promise for a total of 14 years.
Returning to the narrative
Sushila made the decision to uphold her commitment after learning about Anant's. She learned the customs from the womenfolk, who also fastened the sacred thread on her left hand.
The husband and wife thereafter experienced a wonderful period of prosperity. Things was going well until his husband Kaundinya confronted her about the pledge one day, and when she replied, he became enraged with her.
During a disagreement, her husband took the thread and flung it into the fire. Following this, the family was unexpectedly struck by a string of bad luck, and they fell into abject poverty. It was at that point that he finally realised it was all because to Anant.
After enduring rigorous penance, it became clear to him that Anant was none other than the supreme Lord Vishnu when he at last located him. He was even assured by Anant that if he kept the vow and finished it, he would successfully acquire fortune, children, and happiness at the end of 14 years, which he accomplished and lived happily after.