Ganesh - Ganesha

Hindu God Ganesha or "Lord of obstacles," his name is also written as Ganesa and Ganesh, sometimes referred to as Ganapati is one of the best known and venerated Statue of God. He is the first son of Shiva and Parvati, and "spouse" of Buddhi (also called Riddhi) and Siddhi. He is also called for Vinayaka in Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Vinayagar and Pillayar in Tamil, And Vinayakudu in Telugu. 'Ga' symbolizes Buddhi (intellect) and 'In' symbolizes Vijnana (wisdom). Ganesh is then considered the master of intellect and wisdom. Ganesh Statues are represented as yellow or red, with a big belly with four arms and the head of elephant with a single prey and always mounted on a mouse. Ganesha Sculptures are often represented seated, with one leg raised and curved on top of another. Typically your name is prefixed with the Hindu title of respect 'Shri' or Sri.






Ganesha is the symbol of logical solutions, and should be interpreted as such. His body is human while the head is an elephant, and at the same time his transporter (vahana) is a mouse. Thus Ganesha is a logical solution to the problems, or "Destructor of obstacles". His consort is Buddhi (a synonym of mind) and he is worshipped with Lakshmi (the goddess of abundance) by merchants and men of business. The reason is the logical solution to the problems and prosperity is inseparable.

The cult of Ganesha is very popular even outside India. His devotees are called Ganapatyas.