21 leaves ganesha puja

For Ganesh Chaturthi Puja 21 leaves are used. The leaves are also known as Ganesh Patris. Below are the pictures of 21 leaves used during Vinayaka Chaturthi. Traditionally leaves of 108 different types of plants are offered. But today most people confine the offering to Dhurva grass and Bilva leaves. In some regions, certain wild leaves are worshipped instead of Ganesh murti. In most community pujas, 21 different types of leaves are offered.

Tulsi leaves are only used during Ganesh Chaturthi puja. It is not used during other Ganesh pujas.

Nirguda Kimva or Neem is used. Both are not used together.

Similarly, Kevada or Dorali is used. Both are not used together. Dorali is also known as Ranvange.

Not all 21 leaves are offered in pujas performed in homes.

Mango leaves are also widely used for decorating the puja area.

Source - Pictures from Government of Maharashtra, Environment Department Website