Avahana, Puja and Visarjan (ज्येष्ठा गौरी)
The invocation (Avahana) of Jyeshtha Gauri, welcomed into homes during Ganeshotsav in Maharashtra.
One three-day observance, in three stages. Gauri, Parvati, and in household terms Ganesha's mother, arrives on Anuradha (avahana, invocation), is worshipped on Jyeshtha (puja), and departs on Mula (visarjan). Two masks or metal faces are installed, dressed in saris and ornaments as married women of the house, and treated as visiting guests. It's dated by nakshatra, not tithi, which is why it moves relative to Ganesh Chaturthi.
A full festive meal on the puja day, sixteen vegetables, puran poli, and bhaji, served as to honoured guests.
