What is the spiritual aspect of Thoppukaranam?

The modern technique of ‘Super Brain’ Yoga propagated by the West does not explain the spiritual significance attached to this technique, which includes worshipping Lord Shri Ganesha. According to Indian tradition, this practise invokes the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha and stands as a symbol of thanks giving to the Lord on the fulfilment of one’s wish. Meditations with a purpose, is said to produce greater beneficial effects.

Generally speaking, the directions play an important role when performing Yoga. According to Hindu dharma, gods are believed to reside in both the eastern and northern directions. East is considered the direction of the sun. Hindus usually perform the Thoppu karanam when worshipping Lord Ganesha. If the picture of a god faces east, one sits to the right facing north. If the picture faces north, one faces east.

Lord Ganesha, who is symbolically represented with an elephant head and a human body, stands as an embodiment of knowledge and wisdom. He is worshipped by Hindus across the world irrespective of their castes and sects. He is seen holding a rosary to signify the continuous pursuit of knowledge. He is also considered the God of success who has the divine power to eliminate all evils and obstacles from a person’s life.