10 Foods You Should Never Offer to Lord Ganesh

Foods Never Offer to Lord Ganesh: The destroyer of all obstacles and the giver of wisdom, Lord Ganesh is worshipped with extreme devotion in India and outside. The offering of various food items goes hand in hand with the entire process of Ganesh Puja and mainly symbolizes love, gratitude, and respect that devotees have for the Lord. Scriptures and traditions mention, however, some specific items that must not be offered to the deity. By avoiding the offering of these items, a devotee is believed to have performed the puja with purity and devotion.

1. Basil Leaves

Though holy for Hindus, tulsi leaves are never offered to Ganesh because, as per the legends, one day she cursed him.

2. Non-veg Items Are Not Allowed

Meat, fish, and eggs are completely prohibited as Ganesh is to be worshipped with pure or sattvic items.

3. Garlic and Onions

Tamasic from both garlic and onions means lowering the spiritual vibrations, and thus, are unfit for consumption or offerings in any ritualistic function.

4. Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd with its bitter taste is inauspicious and unfit for offering before any deity.

5. Alcohol

Alcohol is strictly forbidden as an offering to Ganesh, as it is puritatively opposed.

6. Leftovers

Food should never be placed before Lord Ganesh if it has been touched by the mouth of any human. It should always be freshly prepared.

7. Brinjal (Eggplant)

Brinjal is said to be impure during festivals and should not be used in offerings.

8. Spicy and Oily Junk Foods

Such packaged overly spicy food items are devoid of the sanctity and must not be considered as naivedyam.

Also Read: How to Do Ganesh Sthapana at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

9. Salted Packaged Snacks

Any packaged chips, biscuits, or namkeens are termed inappropriate because of their being artificially made and having the impure nature.

10. Fermented Foods

Such items are avoided since they are considered not pure spiritually due to the method of making by fermentation.

More than anything else, devotees must remember that simplicity and purity are the essence of worship. Offering fresh fruits, sweets such as modak, and sattvic food to Lord Ganesh symbolizes purity and respect.