What Are Lord Ganesha's Favorite Foods? Why Is He Called Modakpriya?
By Pt. Amitabh Sharma
Why Lord Ganesha Loves Modaks, Laddus and Durva Grass
Table of Contents
Why Is He Called Modakpriya? A Symbol of Divine Affection
Lord Ganesha is not only worshipped as the remover of obstacles but also as the one who brings balance, humility, wisdom and joy in life. Just like his unique form, his food preferences also hold deep spiritual meaning. The title Modakpriya is not just about liking a sweet. It reflects a divine symbolism which teaches that profound truths of life are often hidden in simplicity.
Why Is Modak the Most Beloved Offering?
The Modak, usually filled with jaggery and coconut and covered with steamed rice or wheat flour, is considered the most favorite food of Lord Ganesha. The outer shell symbolizes the tough challenges of life and the sweet filling represents inner joy and spiritual knowledge that lies beyond them.
Spiritual Significance of Modak
- Outer Layer: Represents hardships in life
- Inner Sweetness: Inner joy and higher wisdom
- Offering Method: Traditionally, 21 or 108 Modaks are offered
- As Prasad: Brings blessings of joy, intellect and spiritual clarity
Other Favorite Foods: Laddus, Durva Grass and Fruits
Besides Modaks, Lord Ganesha is fond of many other foods, each having symbolic and spiritual importance:
Laddus (Besan and Boondi)
These signify wealth, success and fortune. They are offered in golden or yellow bowls, representing abundance.
Durva Grass (Doob)
Three or five-blade Durva is offered to Ganesha and represents purity, long life and humility.
Fruits Like Banana and Coconut
Banana denotes nourishment and continuity. Coconut breaking signifies surrendering the ego.
Rice with Jaggery
Symbolises pure intentions, enthusiasm and positivity.
Spiritual Meanings of the Offerings
| Offering | Spiritual Significance |
|---|---|
| Modak | Inner joy and divine knowledge |
| Besan Laddus | Prosperity and good fortune |
| Durva Grass | Purity, long life, humility |
| Banana | Nourishment and blessings |
| Coconut | Surrender of ego |
| Jaggery-Rice | Simplicity and positivity |
Modak in Stories and Tradition
According to a well-known story, once the gods instructed both Ganesha and Kartikeya to go around the world. Kartikeya set off immediately. Ganesha circled his parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, saying they are the universe. Pleased by his wisdom, Parvati offered him a Modak that represented eternal joy and supreme knowledge. Since then, Modak has been considered his favorite offering.
What Do These Foods Teach Us Spiritually?
Ganesha's preferences are not limited to taste. Each one is a symbolic reminder:
- Do not fear life’s hardships
- True happiness lies beyond challenges
- Humility and simplicity bring true wisdom
- Offering food to Ganesha is an act of devotion and transformation
It Is the Devotion That Matters Most
Whether you offer 108 Modaks or just a single blade of Durva grass, it is the intention and devotion that matters. Lord Ganesha accepts every offering made with love and sincerity.
Offering Is a Dialogue of the Soul
Ganesha’s offerings are not merely rituals. They are a way for the devotee to express inner feelings. That is why during Ganesh Chaturthi, families prepare Modaks with love, chant his mantras and surrender their emotions at his feet.
The Sweetness of Devotion and Simplicity
The knowledge of Lord Ganesha’s favorite foods teaches us that true devotion does not lie in extravagance but in purity of heart, inner joy and spiritual connection. May Modakpriya Ganesha bless our lives with the sweetness of love and humility.
