Ganesha, also known as Ganapati, Vinayaka, or Pillaiyar, is one of the most worshipped deities in Hinduism. Recognizable by his elephant head, Ganesha is revered as the remover of obstacles, the patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of intellect and wisdom. His image is found throughout India and Nepal, and Hindu sects worship him regardless of other affiliations.
Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha |
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada||
Meaning
- Vakratunda: O Lord with a curved trunk,
- Mahakaya: O Lord with a large body,
- Suryakoti Samaprabha: Whose splendor is equal to millions of suns,
- Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva: O Lord, please remove all obstacles,
- Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada: From all my activities, always.
This shloka is a prayer to Lord Ganesha, invoking his blessings to remove obstacles and ensure success in all undertakings. It emphasizes Ganesha’s power, grandeur, and ability to illuminate the path of his devotees like millions of suns.
Mahaganapati, or Maha Ganesha, is one of the more elaborate and powerful forms of Lord Ganesha. He is often depicted with ten arms and holding various items, each symbolizing different aspects of life and divine powers. Here is a detailed description of what Mahaganapati typically holds in his hands:
Mahaganapati Description and Symbols
- Pasha (Noose):
- Symbolizes control over desires and the ability to capture and remove obstacles.
- Ankusha (Goad):
- Represents the power to direct and guide individuals on the right path.
- Parashu (Axe):
- Used to cut off all attachments and desires, symbolizing detachment and the destruction of evil.
- Modaka (Sweet Dumpling):
- Represents the rewards of a wise life and the sweetness of spiritual pursuit.
- Danta (Broken Tusk):
- Symbolizes sacrifice and the importance of retaining the good while discarding the bad.
- Pomegranate:
- Symbolizes prosperity and fertility.
- Lotus:
- Represents purity, enlightenment, and self-realization.
- Veena (Musical Instrument):
- Symbolizes the arts and sciences, and the harmony of life.
- Kumbha (Pot of Nectar):
- Represents health, wealth, and immortality.
- Ratna (Jewels):
- Symbolizes the wealth and prosperity that Mahaganapati bestows upon his devotees.
General Attributes
- Body: Mahaganapati is often depicted as a large, pot-bellied deity symbolizing abundance and generosity.
- Head: Elephant head with large ears, representing wisdom and the ability to listen to prayers and appeals.
- Vehicle: Typically rides a lion, symbolizing strength and fearlessness, although he is sometimes shown with a mouse as his vahana (vehicle), representing humility.
- Consort: Sometimes depicted with his consort, often referred to as Siddhi (spiritual power) and Buddhi (intellect).
Forms of Ganesha
Ganesha is depicted in various forms, each representing different aspects and attributes. Here are some of the notable forms:
| Form of Ganesha | Depiction | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| Bal Ganesh (Child Ganesha) | Young boy with an elephant head | Innocence, playfulness, and a sense of wonder |
| Heramba Ganapati | Five-headed form, often riding a lion | Compassion, protection, and fearlessness |
| Ekadanta (Single-Tusked) Ganapati | Single tusk, the other being broken; often holds a modaka and a hatchet | Importance of retaining the good and discarding the bad |
| Ganesha Dancing | Depicted in a dancing pose | Joy, celebration, and the dynamic aspect of life |
| Mahaganapati | Elaborately adorned form | Omnipotence and wisdom |
| Siddhi Vinayaka | Often depicted with consorts Siddhi and Buddhi | Giver of success |
| Vakratunda | Curved trunk | Overcoming all obstacles and challenges in life |
| Vighnaharta (Remover of Obstacles) | Four arms, holding attributes such as the axe and the modaka | Specifically worshipped for removing hurdles and obstacles |
| Ucchista Ganapati | Depicted with a goddess, often holding a pomegranate and a veena | Represents unorthodox practices and the breaking of social norms |