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Ganesha – God of Wisdom
Lord Ganesha, also known as Ganapati or Vinayaka, is one of the most widely worshipped deities in Hinduism. He is known as the god of wisdom, intellect, knowledge, and new beginnings. Lord Ganesha is typically depicted with the head of an elephant and the body of a human.
Why does lord Ganesha have an Elephant’s head?
There are many stories and myths surrounding the origins and significance of Lord Ganesha. One of the most popular stories tells of how Lord Ganesha was created by the goddess Parvati to guard her chambers while she bathed. When Lord Shiva, Parvati’s husband, returned and attempted to enter the chambers, Lord Ganesha, who did not recognize him, refused to let him in. A fierce battle ensued, during which Lord Shiva beheaded Lord Ganesha. Upon realizing what he had done, Lord Shiva ordered his followers to find the head of the first living creature they encountered and bring it back to him. The first creature they encountered was an elephant, and so Lord Ganesha was resurrected with the head of an elephant.
Why do Hindus Pray to Lord Ganesha?
Lord Ganesha is considered to be an auspicious and benevolent deity who can help remove obstacles and bring success and good fortune. As such, he is often invoked at the beginning of new endeavours, whether they be personal or professional. Lord Ganesha is also associated with the first chakra, or energy centre, which is located at the base of the spine and is associated with grounding, stability, and security.
His other names are –
Vignaharta – Demolisher of obstacles.
Gajanana – Elephant faced God.
Heramba – Mothers beloved son.
Ganapati – Lord of Ganas (Gods).
Mangalmurti – All auspicious lord.
How is Ganapati festival celebrated?
In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is celebrated during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, which typically falls in August or September. During this festival, elaborate statues of Lord Ganesha are created and worshipped, and then immersed in water at the end of the festival. Lord Ganesha is also worshipped on a daily basis in many Hindu households and temples. During this period, the festivities amongst the people know no bounds. There are elaborate decorations on the street, light shows at the pandals, street food and music. People go out in groups late evening and late at night to experience the festivities and pay their respect to the god. It is an experience in itself to go out in the jostling crowd in thousands, which can prove to be once in a lifetime.
People shout out chants, and you will be surprised that random people respond back even louder. A single person shouts out – “Ganapati Bappa..” and hundreds will respond back with a resounding “Morya!”
Lord Ganesha in other cultures
Some scholars have noted that there may be some similarities between Lord Ganesha and other deities or figures in different cultures. For example, the god Ganapati of the Japanese Shingon sect of Buddhism is often depicted with an elephant head and is said to have a similar role to Lord Ganesha in removing obstacles and granting success.
In addition, there are some depictions of Lord Ganesha in Southeast Asian art that blend elements of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. For example, in the Khmer Empire, which existed in present-day Cambodia between the 9th and 15th centuries, there are carvings and sculptures that depict a deity with an elephant head that is similar to Lord Ganesha. The famous Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, which was built in the 12th century, features many carvings and sculptures of Lord Ganesha.
Hinduism was brought to Southeast Asia by Indian traders and missionaries beginning in the early centuries of the Common Era, and it spread throughout the region over time. Lord Ganesha has also influenced the cultures and traditions of these countries in other ways. For example, in Thailand, the festival of Songkran, which celebrates the Thai New Year, is often accompanied by parades and processions featuring floats and images of Lord Ganesha.
Have you read about Ganapati’s father, Lord Shiva?
