Ganesh Puja is a Hindu ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the god of wisdom, prosperity, and remover of obstacles. It is performed during various festivals, especially Ganesh Chaturthi, which celebrates his birth. Here's a typical description of Ganesh Puja:

Preparation:

The house or temple is cleaned and decorated with flowers, rangoli (colorful patterns), and lights.
A statue or idol of Lord Ganesha, made of clay or metal, is placed on a clean altar.
Offerings like fruits, sweets (especially modaks, Lord Ganesha’s favorite), coconut, betel leaves, and incense are gathered.
Invocation (Aavahanam):

The priest or devotee begins by invoking Lord Ganesha through chanting of mantras and prayers. The popular mantra is "Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha".
Lord Ganesha is symbolically invited to bless the worshippers and remove obstacles from their lives.
Offering Rituals (Puja Vidhi):

Aarti and Abhishekam: The deity is bathed with holy substances like milk, water, honey, curd, and ghee.
Offerings (Naivedya): Devotees present Lord Ganesha with various offerings, including modaks, bananas, and other fruits.
Dhoop & Deepa: Incense (dhoop) and lamps (deepa) are lit, representing the light of wisdom and purity.
Recitation of 108 Names: The priest recites the 108 names of Ganesha, signifying his many attributes.