Ganesha

About Ganesha

Ganesha is the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati, instantly known by his curved trunk, single tusk, and pot belly. He holds a modaka sweet in one hand and a mace to smash obstacles, wears a crescent moon on his forehead, and rides a small mouse. The Ganesh Pancharatna Stotram remembers him as the slayer of the elephant-demon Gajasura. Hindus call on him first — before a wedding, a journey, an exam, or any new task — chanting the Vakratunda mantra for a clear path. His birth is celebrated each year at Ganesh Chaturthi.