Ganasha

Ganesha (also spelled Ganesh) is one of the most popular and worshipped deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is also known as Ganapati, Vinayaka, and Pillaiyar. Ganesha is the elephant-headed god of wisdom, knowledge, and new beginnings. He is also the remover of obstacles and the patron of merchants, bankers, scribes, and authors.Show more

Ganesha is depicted with a large elephant head, a pot belly, and four arms. He is often seated on a lotus flower or on a mouse, his vahana (vehicle). Ganesha's attributes include:

Elephant head: The elephant head symbolizes Ganesha's wisdom and intelligence. Elephants are also known for their strength and determination, which are other qualities that Ganesha embodies.
Pot belly: Ganesha's pot belly symbolizes abundance and prosperity. It also represents his ability to digest and absorb all the good and bad that comes his way.
Four arms: Ganesha's four arms represent his ability to multitask and handle any challenge that comes his way.
Lotus flower: The lotus flower symbolizes purity and spiritual growth. It also represents Ganesha's ability to rise above the material world and achieve enlightenment.
Mouse: The mouse represents Ganesha's ability to overcome even the smallest and most insignificant obstacles.
Ganesha is worshipped by Hindus all over the world. He is especially popular in India and Nepal, where he is worshipped before any major undertaking, be it a new business venture, a wedding, or the birth of a child. Ganesha is also worshipped by Jains and Buddhists.

One of the most important festivals dedicated to Ganesha is Ganesh Chaturthi, which is celebrated in the late summer months. During this festival, Hindus install large clay or plaster statues of Ganesha in their homes and temples. The statues are worshipped and then immersed in water at the end of the festival.

Ganesha is a beloved and revered deity by Hindus all over the world. He is a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, new beginnings, and the removal of obstacles.