In order to represent the cycle of creation and dissolution, Ganesh statues are traditionally submerged (visarjan). You can, however, retain the idol at home in a sanitized altar for daily worship if it is made of metal, stone, or another durable substance. It is only appropriate to submerge temporary clay idols intended for the celebration.

Devotees do recite "Ganpati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Lavkar Ya" (O Lord Ganesha, return quickly next year) at Ganesh Visarjan. Before immersion, special Ganesh Aartis such as "Sukhkarta Dukhharta" and "Jai Ganesh Deva" are sung, followed by prayers of departure and mantras of thanks.

According to the birth tale of Lord Ganesha, the turmeric paste that Goddess Parvati used for her bath was used to make him. He was given life by her, and she made him watch over her door. Ganesha blocked Lord Shiva's entry, and Shiva became enraged and chopped off his head. Shiva substituted an elephant's head for it in order to comfort Parvati, endowing Ganesha as the lord of intelligence and the remover of barriers.

Lord Ganesha is regarded as the god of wisdom because his huge ears stand for listening and learning, and his elephant head for brilliance and expansive thought. He is also the Mahabharata's scribe, demonstrating wisdom and endurance, and is called upon first in ceremonies to provide direction and clarity.

Yes, you can present Lord Ganesha with store-bought candies since dedication is more important than preparation. However, since they reflect the devotee's devotion and work, handmade modaks, also known as kozhukattai, are very auspicious.