The Sacred Tradition of Ganesh Nimajjanam: Why Teenmaar Dances, Item Songs, and Post-Sunset Immersions are considered "Aristam" and Be avoided

Today is the day of Ganesh Nimajjanam at many places. I thought of writing this article so that at least some of my contacts understand the significance of this sacred event and condemn undivine practices wherever possible. Many people may not like this post, but this is a well researched one.

Ganesh Nimajjanam, the immersion of Lord Ganesha’s idol, is a significant ritual marking the culmination of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. It symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the return of Lord Ganesha to his divine abode, taking away the obstacles of his devotees.

However, in recent times, certain modern practices such as teenmaar dances, item songs accompanied by loud music, DJs, and high-energy dance sequences, aartis on roads and post-sunset immersions have become prevalent during these processions. While these activities may seem festive, they often overshadow the spiritual essence of the event and contradict traditional Vedic principles. This article explores why these practices should be avoided, drawing insights from Sanskrit texts and traditional norms.

1. Teenmaar Dances: A Disruption to the Sacred Atmosphere

Teenmaar dances, known for their energetic moves and vibrant beats, have gained popularity during Ganesh immersion processions, especially in states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Although these dances hold cultural significance in their own right, they are not aligned with the spiritual purpose of Ganesh Nimajjanam, which is meant to be a solemn and devotional farewell to the deity.

Reference to Sanskrit Texts: The Manusmriti (Chapter 4, Verse 99) states, "? ???????? ? ?????????? ? ??????????? ?," which translates to "The actions of one who is excited, angry, or overly enthusiastic should not be considered fit for ritual." This verse emphasizes that rituals should be conducted with calmness and decorum, preserving the sanctity of the occasion. Teenmaar dances, characterized by their loud, rhythmic beats and chaotic energy, often disrupt the spiritual atmosphere, shifting the focus from devotion to entertainment.

Impact on the Devotional Atmosphere: Teenmaar dances overshadow traditional hymns and prayers, turning the immersion procession into a street party rather than a spiritual ceremony. This disruption not only dilutes the religious sentiment but also creates a disconnect between the devotees and the sacred act of immersion.

2. Item Songs: Inappropriate Entertainment in a Sacred Context

Item songs, popularized by Indian cinema, often feature catchy beats and suggestive lyrics designed for entertainment. The use of such songs during Ganesh Nimajjanam processions undermines the spiritual sanctity of the event and replaces devotional music with secular, often provocative content.

Reference to Sanskrit Texts: The Manusmriti (Chapter 4, Verse 138) advises against the use of disturbing sounds and words during rituals: “?????????? ????????” This directive emphasizes maintaining a peaceful and respectful atmosphere during religious observances. Playing item songs during the procession conflicts with this guidance, as it introduces a tone of frivolity and distraction that is inconsistent with the solemnity of the ritual.

Dilution of Spiritual Significance: Item songs and dance performances divert the procession’s focus from a respectful, collective act of worship to a spectacle of noise and entertainment. This shift diminishes the sacredness of the ritual, making it difficult for devotees to engage in the intended spirit of devotion and prayer.

3. Importance of Conducting Immersion Before Sunset

One of the traditional norms of Ganesh Nimajjanam is to complete the immersion before sunset. This practice is not merely a custom but is deeply rooted in Vedic principles, symbolizing the importance of light, purity, and auspiciousness in religious rituals.

Reference to Sanskrit Texts: The Manusmriti (Chapter 4, Verse 100) states, “?????????????? ???? ????? ??????? ??????????? ??????,” meaning “Rituals performed from sunrise until sunset are in accordance with dharma.” Daylight symbolizes divine oversight and protection, ensuring that the ritual is conducted under auspicious conditions. Immersing the idol during daylight preserves the sanctity and positive energy of the ceremony.

Symbolism of Light and Darkness: In Hindu philosophy, light represents knowledge, positivity, and divine presence, while darkness often symbolizes ignorance and inauspiciousness. By performing the immersion before sunset, devotees align the act with the symbolic separation of the sacred from the encroaching darkness of the night.

Avoiding Tamasik Influences: According to the Yajnavalkya Smriti (Verse 1.191), rituals should not be performed after sunset, as this time is associated with Tamasik (darkness) influences, which are considered spiritually diminishing: "?????? ??? ?????????? ????????" Completing the immersion during the day helps avoid these negative influences, preserving the ritual’s purity.

4. Aarthi During Processions: A Ritual Reserved for Temples

Aarthi is a devotional ritual involving the waving of lit lamps before the deity, symbolizing the removal of darkness and ignorance. However, performing aarthi on moving vehicles or near water bodies during Ganesh Nimajjanam deviates from traditional practices.

Reference to Sanskrit Texts: The Agama Shastra, which guides temple rituals, specifies that aarthi should be conducted in front of the idol placed within a sanctified space, such as a temple or a home altar. The texts emphasize, “Mandire va bhavedi??am, sthirayo devata sthitam,” meaning “Aarthi is best performed where the deity is stationed and stable.” This implies that performing aarthi during processions is not traditionally endorsed.

5. Avoiding Tamasik Behaviors: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Non-Vegetarian Food

Another growing concern during Ganesh Nimajjanam is the consumption of tamasik substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and non-vegetarian food. These practices are directly opposed to the spiritual ethos of the festival and are considered inappropriate during any religious observance.

Reference to Sanskrit Texts: The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 17, Verse 7) classifies foods and substances into three categories: Sattvik (pure), Rajasik (stimulating), and Tamasik (impure). It states, "???? ????????????????????????????????, ?????? ????????? ?????? ?????? ?????? ????????????????," highlighting that sattvik foods enhance health, vitality, and clarity of mind, whereas tamasik substances cloud the mind and increase ignorance and lethargy. The consumption of tamasik substances not only disrespects the sanctity of Ganesh Nimajjanam but also spiritually disconnects devotees from the divine presence of Lord Ganesha. Vedic guidelines emphasize that rituals should be performed in a state of purity, both physical and mental, to truly honor the deity.

6. Upholding Tradition with Reverence and Awareness

The practices of teenmaar dances, item songs, and post-sunset immersions reflect a departure from traditional values and Vedic guidelines that emphasize respect, devotion, and spiritual alignment. Ganesh Nimajjanam is not just a festive event but a deeply meaningful ritual that embodies the cyclical nature of life, devotion, and the divine presence of Lord Ganesha.

By adhering to traditional norms—avoiding disruptive dances, maintaining the sanctity of music, and ensuring the immersion occurs before sunset—devotees can preserve the true essence of this sacred ceremony. Aligning our actions with the guidelines of ancient scriptures not only honors Lord Ganesha but also sets a respectful and spiritually uplifting example for future generations.

Conclusion: A Call to Restore Sacredness in Ganesh Nimajjanam

Ganesh Nimajjanam should be a time of reflection, prayer, and respectful farewell to Lord Ganesha. Modern practices that shift the focus away from these values dilute the spiritual significance of the ritual. By consciously choosing to uphold traditional norms—avoiding teenmaar dances and item songs, and conducting immersions before sunset—we can restore the sacredness of this beautiful tradition. Let us celebrate Ganesh Nimajjanam with devotion, mindfulness, and a deep respect for the divine, ensuring that our actions honor the true spirit of this revered festival.