A distinctive and beautiful feature of Vinayaka Chavithi is the Ekavimsati Patri Puja — the offering of 21 sacred leaves to Lord Ganesha. Each leaf carries devotional and ayurvedic significance, and offering them is believed to please Ganesha and bestow health and prosperity. This HinduTone guide lists the 21 patri for Ganesh puja with their names and meaning, to help you identify and offer them for Ganesh Chaturthi 2026.

The 21 patri are offered during the puja with the chant of Ganesha’s names. Durva grass (garika), offered in tied bunches, is especially dear to Ganesha.

The 21 Patri (Ekavimsati Patri)

  • 1. Machi patra (Artemisia)
  • 2. Bruhati patra (yellow-berried nightshade)
  • 3. Bilva patra (bael leaf)
  • 4. Durva / Garika (bermuda/durva grass — most dear to Ganesha)
  • 5. Dattura patra (thorn-apple leaf)
  • 6. Badari patra (jujube/ber leaf)
  • 7. Apamarga patra (prickly chaff flower)
  • 8. Tulasi patra (holy basil — offered specially on this day)
  • 9. Chuta patra (mango leaf)
  • 10. Karaveera patra (oleander leaf)
  • 11. Vishnukranta patra (clitoria/aparajita)
  • 12. Daadimi patra (pomegranate leaf)
  • 13. Devadaru patra (deodar cedar)
  • 14. Maruvaka patra (marjoram)
  • 15. Sindhuvara patra (nirgundi/chaste tree)
  • 16. Jaaji patra (jasmine leaf)
  • 17. Gandaki / Gandali patra (devadali)
  • 18. Shami patra (prosopis/jammi — highly auspicious)
  • 19. Ashvattha patra (peepal leaf)
  • 20. Arjuna patra (arjuna tree leaf)
  • 21. Arka patra (calotropis/jilledu)

Why Offer 21 Leaves?

The number 21 is auspicious in Ganesha worship (as in 21 modaks and 21 pradakshinas). Each patri is medicinal in Ayurveda, and offering a variety of leaves expresses gratitude for nature’s healing bounty. As each leaf is offered, the corresponding name of Ganesha is chanted, making the puja a moving litany of his many names.

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Tips for NRIs — Sourcing the Patri

  • The full 21 patri can be hard to find abroad — order early from Indian stores, or ask your temple, which often arranges patri sets
  • Many devotees abroad offer the patri that are available (durva/garika, tulasi, bilva, mango, shami) and substitute mindfully where leaves are unavailable
  • Durva grass (garika) is the most important — prioritise it
  • Keep the leaves fresh; gather or buy them a day before the puja

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the 21 patri in Ganesh puja?

They are 21 sacred leaves (Ekavimsati Patri) — including durva/garika, bilva, tulasi, mango, shami, peepal and arka — offered to Ganesha with the chant of his names.

Which leaf is most important for Ganesha?

Durva grass (garika), offered in tied bunches, is the most beloved and essential offering.

What if I can’t find all 21 leaves abroad?

Offer the leaves available to you (prioritising durva), or ask your temple, which often arranges patri sets. Devotion matters most.

Final Word

Offering the 21 patri is one of the most beautiful rituals of Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 — a fragrant, healing tribute to Vighnaharta. Prioritise durva grass, source the rest early, and offer each leaf with his name on your lips. Ganpati Bappa Morya!

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