Lord Ganesha
Remover of obstacles, giver of wisdom and the god worshipped first
Introduction
Shri Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. Every auspicious undertaking begins with "Shri Ganeshaya Namah", because he removes obstacles and grants wisdom and success. With his elephant head, large belly and a mouse as his vehicle, every aspect of Ganapati holds a deep spiritual meaning.
Mantra
Om Gam Ganapataye Namah
Read part by part
Parts of the story
6 parts • about 7 min of reading in all
Part 1 • 1 min
The Birth of Ganesha
Mother Parvati created a child from turmeric paste and made him her doorkeeper.
Part 2 • 2 min
The Elephant-Headed Form
The battle with Shiva, the Mother's grief, and new life with the head of an elephant.
Part 3 • 1 min
Worshipped First: Parents Are the Whole World
The race around the world with Kartikeya, and Ganesha's wisdom.
Part 4 • 1 min
The Curse on the Moon and Ganesh Chaturthi
The Moon mocks Ganesha, is cursed, and the tradition of not looking at the moon on Bhadarva Sud Choth.
Part 5 • 1 min
Ekadant: The Scribe of the Mahabharata
At Ved Vyasa's request he wrote down the Mahabharata, breaking off his own tusk to keep writing.
Part 6 • 1 min
The Meaning of Ganesha's Form and His Festival
The spiritual message of his large head, small eyes, big ears and his mouse vehicle.