Who is Ganesha?
Ganesha (Gaṇeśa) — son of Shiva and Parvati — is one of the most beloved and widely worshipped deities in Hinduism. His elephant head, rotund form, and gentle demeanor make him instantly recognizable across the world.
No Hindu ritual or auspicious undertaking begins without first invoking Ganesha. He is called Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles) and Vighnakarta (creator of obstacles for the unrighteous). This duality reflects the profound Hindu understanding that what removes obstacles for the devoted seeker may create obstacles to prevent the unworthy from straying further into adharma.
The Story of Ganesha’s Elephant Head
The most popular account from the Shiva Purana tells that Parvati created Ganesha from turmeric paste and her own essence, giving him life and appointing him as guardian of her door. When Shiva returned, not recognizing the child, a confrontation ensued and Shiva severed Ganesha’s head.
Distraught, Parvati demanded Ganesha be restored. Shiva sent his ganas (attendants) to find the head of the first being they encountered — they found a sleeping elephant and returned with its head. Shiva placed it on Ganesha’s body and breathed life into him, also granting him the boon of being worshipped first before all other deities.
Symbolism
Each element of Ganesha’s iconography carries profound meaning:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Elephant head | Wisdom, memory, intelligence |
| Large ears | Listens deeply to devotees |
| Small eyes | Focus, concentration |
| Large belly | Holds all of creation within |
| Broken tusk | Sacrifice (used as pen to write Mahabharata) |
| Modaka (sweet) | Rewards of spiritual practice |
| Mushika (mouse) | Ego — kept under control, yet used as vehicle |
| Four arms | Omnidirectional divine reach |
Ganesha in Practice
Ganesha is worshipped at the beginning of every journey — literal and metaphorical. Starting a new business, taking an exam, beginning a journey, moving into a new home — all begin with Ganesh Vandana (prayer to Ganesha).
The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi (Vinayaka Chaturthi) celebrates his birthday over 10 days, particularly grand in Maharashtra where clay Ganesha idols are installed in homes and public pandals, then immersed in water on the final day.
Sacred Mantras
Sacred Temples
- Siddhivinayak Temple Mumbai
- Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Pune
- Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple Andhra Pradesh
- Rockfort Ucchi Pillayar Temple Tamil Nadu