Ganesh

Ganesh (also known as Ganesha, Ganapati, and Vinayaka) is one of the most worshipped deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is widely revered as the remover of obstacles, the patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of intellect and wisdom. As the god of beginnings, he is honored at the start of rites and ceremonies. Ganesh is also invoked as the patron of letters and learning during writing sessions.

Etymology and Other Names

The name "Ganesh" is a compound of the Sanskrit words "gana" (meaning a group, multitude, or categorical system) and "isha" (meaning lord or master). The name "Ganesha" thus means "lord of the multitudes" (Ganas). Another popular name for Ganesh is "Ganapati," which is a compound of "gana" and "pati" (meaning lord or master).

Iconography

Ganesh is depicted with an elephant's head on a human body, a large belly, and usually four arms. Each of his hands holds an item with symbolic meaning: a goad, a noose, a broken tusk, and a sweet (modaka). His vehicle (vahana) is the mouse, symbolizing humility and the ability to overcome any obstacle.

Legends and Stories

Ganesh is the son of Shiva and Parvati. One of the most popular stories of his origin is that Parvati created him from the dirt of her body to guard her while she bathed. Shiva, not knowing who Ganesh was, beheaded him in a fit of rage. To appease Parvati, Shiva replaced Ganesh's head with that of an elephant.

Worship and Festivals

Ganesh is worshipped throughout India and in Hindu communities worldwide. The most significant festival dedicated to him is Ganesh Chaturthi, a ten-day festival marking his birth. During this festival, elaborate statues of Ganesh are created, worshipped, and then immersed in water.

Symbolism

Ganesh's elephant head symbolizes wisdom and understanding, while his large ears signify that he listens to the prayers and needs of his devotees. His broken tusk represents the idea of sacrifice, and his large belly signifies the ability to digest all good and bad in life.

Related Deities and Figures

Ganesh is often associated with other deities such as Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. He is also linked to Kartikeya, his brother, who is the god of war.

In Popular Culture

Ganesh has been depicted in various forms of media, including literature, films, and television. He is a popular figure in Indian art, and his image is often used in tattoos and other forms of body art.

See Also

• Shiva
• Parvati
• Ganesh Chaturthi
• Hindu deities
• Kartikeya
• Lakshmi
• Saraswati