What is the significance of the Chaturthi Pooja?

Vignaraja (another name for Vinayaka) means ‘One who eliminates all obstacles’. The primary benefit you gain by observing the Vinayaka Chaturthi austerities, is the grace of this Compassionate Lord to remove all hurdles that may come on your way. The obstacles we face in life are the consequences of our past actions (karma). Our virtues fetch us rewards; our vices fetch us punishments. If you work well in your office, you get increments. If a person turns in careless work that results in a loss, his increment will be kept on hold, or, depending on the nature of loss, he may even get suspended or dismissed. But the boss never lets down anyone who works efficiently.

Now we are seated in the temple, enjoying the atmosphere charged with serenity and bliss and discussing spirituality. At the same time, there are people suffering their sentence in various prisons. Why? The rules and regulations of the country are common to all. Those who abide by the rules lead a life of peace; those who violate the rules are sentenced to jail. Freedom is for all, the life you lead depends on how you use that freedom.

When you worship the white Tusker Vinayaka, your karmic effects vanish away. If you merit the Grace of Vinayaka, all your actions bear fruit, regardless of the karmic consequences you have accumulated over your previous births. This is the first benefit you gain by observing Vinayaka Chaturthi.

Secondly, Vinayaka Chaturthi helps you clear the ill repute others may have cast on you or any curse you may be afflicted with. However much a good person you are, it is difficult to get a good name in this Kaliyuga - - that is the way things are presently. Vinayaka helps you maintain a balance by steering you clear of obstacles.