In the temple, the Ganesha sits back in the sanctum as is the style in Southern India. This photo was taken before the abishekam and you can see the garland of tulsi (basil) leaves around his neck.
In the foreground you can see the back of the Mushika; the small mouse that Ganesha rides on. The tradition is that the "vahana" or vehicle for each deity sits opposite the deity looking at him. In all temples, Ganesha has Mushika, Shiva has Nandi the bull, and Vishnu has Garuda the eagle.
During the abishekam, the murti is washed and bathed and offered his favorite fruits, flowers and foods. Afterwards the temple feels calm and smooth and energized. It is a very gentle yagya.
At the end of the event, the Ganesha is clothed in a fresh new dhoti and lots of new flower and tulsi garlands. Although the photo is a little out of focus, you can see where sandalwood paste has been applied with dots of dark red kumkum powder.
The three lines of gems on his forehead are called a tripundra and is associated with Shiva. The first line symbolizes relief from material life, the second symbolizes the relief from past karma, and the third symbolizes the desire for enlightenment.
The Rig Veda contains a mantra for Ganesha that is recited in all Ganesha pujas:
Om gananam twa ganapatigm havamahe
kavinka vina mupamas ravastamam
jyeshtharajam brahmanam brahmanaspata
anah srinvan nutibhih sidasadanam
OM shanti shanti shanti
We honor Ganapati, the protector of noble people, the best poet, the most honorable, the great ruler, and treasure of all knowledge. Oh Ganapati, listen to us and find a home in our heart. Peace, peace, peace.
