Before starting any activity or project

Before starting any activity or project

A single four-line verse — the one most Hindus learn first to say before starting anything new. The words paint Ganesha in two strokes: a curved trunk, a vast body blazing like ten million suns. Then comes the one direct request: avighnam kuru — keep my work free of obstacles — sarva-karyeshu sarvada, in everything I do, always. It is traditionally used as a mangalacharana, an auspicious opening, before a journey, an exam, a new job, a wedding, or the recitation of a longer stotra. Short enough to say once under your breath.