As per the Hindu legends, the goddess is the mother of lord Ganesha and also the wife of lord Shiva. Goddess Gauri is treated as a mahervashin (a married woman who comes for a stay at her parent’s place to have a relaxed time.) 
Photo Courtesy: Satej Shinde

In the ancient days, most women were married far off and visited their parents less often. This made their visit special. Married women were welcomed back home with love. Assorted dishes were prepared for them and complete rest and relaxation were ensured. Goddess Gauri signifies a married woman who is welcomed home after a long period of one year. 

There are various forms in which Gauri is worshipped by people. The most common ones include dressing up the goddess from a pious plant named Terda, stones brought from either the banks of any river or the sea coast or clay idols. 

The goddess is held by the door by one of the married daughters of our family. The mother of the daughter then cleans her daughter’s feet, performs a small pooja at the door and then brings her in. Gauri is then given a tour of the entire house and her footprints are imprinted on the house’s floor and important items like cupboards and bedroom doors. After the goddess is placed and dressed up, assorted dishes are prepared for her that include sweet and savoury. 

Goddess Gauri is a guest for one night and is immersed in the ocean the next day in the afternoon marking her return to her husband’s place.