Ganesha: The Remover of Obstacles

Aman Saini

September 19, 2023
4 min read
Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesha Hinduism

Ganesha, also known as Ganapati or Vinayaka, is one of the most beloved and revered deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is easily recognizable with his elephant head and pot-bellied human body. Ganesha is considered the lord of beginnings and the remover of obstacles, making him a prominent figure in both religious and cultural contexts.

One of the most significant celebrations dedicated to Ganesha is Ganesh Chaturthi. This annual festival, observed by Hindus all over the world, honors the birth of Ganesha. It usually falls in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August/September) and lasts for ten days.

The Story of Ganesha

According to Hindu mythology, Ganesha was created by Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. One day, while Parvati was taking a bath, she decided to create a son who would guard the entrance and not let anyone in. She formed Ganesha out of clay and breathed life into him.

When Lord Shiva returned home, he found a young boy standing at the door, refusing to let him enter. Not recognizing Ganesha as his son, Shiva became furious and engaged in a battle with him. In the intense fight, Shiva beheaded Ganesha.

Upon realizing his mistake, Shiva was distraught and ordered his attendants to bring him the head of the first living being they could find. They returned with the head of an elephant, which Shiva then placed on Ganesha’s body, resurrecting him. This is how Ganesha got his iconic elephant head.

The Symbolism of Ganesha

Ganesha’s unique appearance carries deep symbolism. His elephant head represents wisdom, intelligence, and the ability to overcome obstacles. The large ears symbolize the importance of listening, and the small eyes signify concentration and attention to detail.

His pot-bellied body symbolizes generosity and the ability to digest both the good and bad experiences in life. The four arms of Ganesha represent his immense power and the four directions of the universe.

How Ganesha Helps Us

Ganesha is widely revered for his ability to remove obstacles and bring success and prosperity. Many people seek his blessings before starting a new venture, taking exams, or embarking on important journeys. Here are a few ways Ganesha helps us:

Removing Obstacles: Ganesha is known as Vighnaharta, the remover of obstacles. By worshiping him, we can overcome hurdles and challenges that come our way.
Granting Wisdom: Ganesha is the patron of intellect and wisdom. He blesses his devotees with knowledge, understanding, and the ability to make wise decisions.
Providing Protection: Ganesha is believed to provide protection and shield his devotees from harm. He watches over them and ensures their well-being.
Promoting Success: Ganesha is associated with success and prosperity. By seeking his blessings, individuals can achieve their goals and aspirations in life.
Fostering Creativity: Ganesha is considered the god of arts, sciences, and creativity. Worshiping him can inspire and enhance one’s artistic abilities.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

Ganesh Chaturthi is a grand festival celebrated with great enthusiasm. Homes and public spaces are adorned with beautiful Ganesha idols, and devotees perform elaborate rituals to invoke his presence.

The festival commences with the installation of Ganesha idols in homes and pandals (temporary structures). These idols are lovingly crafted by skilled artisans and vary in size, from small ones for home worship to massive ones for public celebrations.

During the ten days of the festival, devotees offer prayers, perform aarti (a ritual of worship with lamps), and sing devotional songs dedicated to Ganesha. On the final day, the idols are taken in grand processions, accompanied by dancing, singing, and merriment, and immersed in water bodies, symbolizing Ganesha’s return to his celestial abode.

Ganesh Chaturthi Giveaway from Daman Game

EGQ3-MVQTJF-3Q6X
Q8TH-8YQPM4-3AGW
EPAE-VVG4X8-4J7K
AVRP-CUKFBE-Q6MF
47U4-PX3VWY-EQ7J
VP4P-FBYQRA-7DGK
7DKQ-3YNAYH-ADKF
7XTJ-G3MT8B-P6VR
GRA7-3NR6PT-FDBP
Y46J-UKVW7H-DBDX
THYE-CK6V36-6FWM
37HC-RRJEDN-G8T6
E66M-NHYPWT-ND4H
GD6U-8YQTUD-MDMM
7VVX-BP43NW-3MDT

In Conclusion

Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity, holds a special place in the hearts of millions of people around the world. His role as the remover of obstacles and bestower of wisdom and success makes him a cherished figure in Hindu mythology and a source of inspiration for countless individuals.