Ganesh Archives -

3 most important things to know about Ganapati Murtis

Ganesh, also known as Shri Ganapati, is one of if not the most popular of all Hindu deities. He’s worshiped and honored regardless of Hindu denomination. So much so, his reverence spreads to even Buddhists and Jains alike. Being the patron of arts & science, remover of obstacles, keeper of wisdom, and lord of beginnings, it’s hard to not like him! Ganesha can be found in just about every Hindu shrine due to these attributes, so here are the most important things to keep in mind when placing your Ganapati murti!

Where to place the Murti in home

Most are not aware, but there are specific places one may place the Ganapati Murti in order to strengthen the vibrations of bliss and success. It is ideal to seat the Murti in the northeasternmost part of the home. If any other murtis are present, it is most proper for Ganesh to be seated to the right-hand side of these murtis if he is not to be the center of the mandir. According to the Vastu Shastra(traditional Vedic architecture), this positioning aids with the flow of chakra in the temple. It is also extremely common to have a small picture or idol of Ganesh next to or above the entryway of the home &|or puja room as it is said this acts as a blessing for those coming and going.

The posture of the Murti

Ganesha murtis come in many postures, & each gives off an entirely different vibration for a completely different purpose. The most common type is the sitting or meditating position. This posture is called lalitasana. Sometimes rather than having both legs folded, one leg will be on the ground while the other rests upon his vahana(his mouse). This denotes that he is concerned with earthly affairs & is here to aid his followers and remove obstacles while his meditating pose where both legs are folded creates an atmosphere of calm and determination. His dancing or standing posture is for those seeking a creative, energetic, & artistic atmosphere. His sitting postures are best for the home while his standing postures are best for work environments.

Position of the Trunk

Ganesh murti trunk hanging in the center and curled to the left This is a key aspect of Ganesh murtis that is often overlooked but should never be! When purchasing a Ganapati murti, be very very choosy. The trunk is the most important aspect of this specific murti. There are three main styles: Vamamukhi, Dakshinmukhi murti, and Shushumna. Vamamukhi trunks hang to the left & are the easiest to please and are associated with calmness, success, & happiness. They are also sometimes called Vastu Ganesh because he is perfect for solving vastu related issues. Whereas, Dakshinmukhi murti trunks hang to the right. It is believed that the sun’s energy flows through this murti’s trunk & because of this, owning one is not recommended as they require special care as per Vedic tradition. If one worships this murti properly, it is said to grant immediate results & moksha(liberation from reincarnation); however, if one doesn’t follow the proper tradition then it is said that all the good results gained from the worship are burned away by the sun’s energy. The final kind is called Shushumna. With trunks hanging down straight, these statues are rather rare and considered extremely auspicious.

6 Murugan Mantras, Quotes & Hymns of Murugan, Subramaniyan, including 108 Chants to Murugan

The ardent devotees of Murugan call him by a variety of names – Karthilkeya, Arumuga, Shanmuga, Guhan, Skanda, Subramanya and Kumara. He is the son of the Hindu God of Destruction, Lord Shiva and the brother of the remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesh (The elephant-headed God).

As far as Indian history goes, Skanda began his existence basically from the beginning. He was a popular war god who lived on forested hills, was fond of hunting, fighting, and an appetite for blood sacrifices. He was young, handsome and a fire-eating, spear-wielding bravo.

This basic template went by many names in different parts of the country. In Maharashtra he was called Khandoba and in vast areas of the south of India the god was known as Malai Kilavan, the Lord of the hills in ancient Tamil. His other name was Murugan. This is the name that he is most recognized as today in places of worship.

1. Moola Mantra

“Om Sharavana-bhavaya Namaha“

Meaning: Adoration to Lord Subrahmanya

2. Muruga Sloka

“Gyaanashaktidhara skanda
valliikalyaaNa sundara
devasenaa manaH kaanta
kaartikeya namo.astute
OM subrahmanyaaya namah“

Meaning: Adoration to Lord Kartikeya, who is also known as Skanda. He is the one who holds the staff of intelligence, and holds the beautiful beloved of Goddess Vallii. She is the enchanter of the mind of Goddess Devasena. I offer adorations repeatedly to that Divine Kartikeya.

3. Sri Subramanya Pancharatnam: This mantra is also known as Murugan Pancharatna stotram and is a six-verse prayer chanted everyday by devotees, especially on Sashti Viratham days.

“Shadananam, chandana lepithangam,
Mahorasam, divya mayoora vahanam,
Rudrasya soonum, sura loka nadam,
Brahmanya devam, saranam prapadye

Jajwalyamanam, sura brunda vandyam,
Kumaradhara thada mandirastham,
Kandarpa roopam, Kamaneeya gathram,
Brahmanya devam, saranam prapadye

Dwishadbujam dwadasa divya nethram,
Trayee thanum soolamasim dadhanam,
Seshavatharam, kamaneeya roopam,
Brahmanya devam, saranam prapadye

Surari gorahava shobhamanam,
Surothamam shakthi daram kumaram,
Sudhaara shakthyayudha shobhi hastham,
Brahmanya devam, saranam prapadye

Ishtartha sidhi pradha meesa puthram,
Ishtannadham bhoosura kamadhenum,
Gangodbhavam sarva jananukoolam,
Brahmanya devam, saranam prapadye

Ya slokamidham padatheeha bhakthya,
Brahmanya deva nivesitha manasa san,
Prapnothi bhogamakilam bhuvi yadyadishtam,
Anthe cha gachathi muda guha samyameva“

4. Sri Subramanya Karavalambam : This is one of popular mantra of Lord Subramanya, which is chanted by almost all devotees.

“Hey Swaminatha karunakara deena bandho,
Sree Paravatheesa mukha pankaja padma bandho,
Sreesadhi deva gana poojitha pada padma,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham

Devadhi deva sutha, deva ganadhi nadha,
Devendra vandhya mrudu pankaja manju pada,
Devarshi narada muneendra sugeetha keerthe,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham

Nithyanna dana nirathakhila roga harin,
Bhagya pradhana paripooritha bhaktha kama,
Sruthyagama pranava vachya nija swaroopa,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham

Krouncha surendra parigandana sakthi soola,
Chapa thi sasthra parimanditha divya panai,
Sree kundaleesa drutha thunda sikheendra vaha,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham

Devadhi deva radha mandala Madhya methya,
Devendra peeda nagaram druda chapa hastha,
Sooram nihathya sura kotibhiradyamana,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham
Heeradhi rathna vara yuktha kireeda hara,
Keyura kundala lasath kavachabhirama,
Hey Veera tharaka jayaa amara brunda vandhya,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham

Panchaksharadhi manu manthritha ganga thoyai,
Panchamruthai praudhithendra mukhair muneendryai,
Pattabhishiktha maghavatha nayasa nadha,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham

Sree karthikeya karunamrutha poorna drushtya,
Kamadhi roga kalushi krutha drushta chitham,
Sikthwa thu mamava kala nidhi koti kantha,
Valleesa nadha mama dehi karavalambham.“

5. Sri Subrahmanya Ashtottara Sata Namavali: We all know the fact that the names of Lord Skanda are innumerable, but in this sthothram the 108 of His descriptive names are enumerated.

1. Om Skandaya namaha
Hail Skanda! Vanquisher of the mighty foes

2. Om Guhaya namaha
Praise be to the Invisible Lord—He who abides in the hearts of devotees true

3. Om Shanmukhaya namaha
Praise be to the six-faced one

4. Om Balanetrasutaya namaha
Praise be to the Son of the Three-Eyed Siva

5.Om Prabhave namaha
Praise be to the Lord Supreme

6. Om Pingalaya namaha
Praise be to the golden-hued one

7.Om Krittikasunave namaha
Hail to the Son of the starry maids

8. Om Sikhivahanaya namaha
Hail to the rider on the peacock

9. Om Dvinadbhujaya namaha
Hail to the Lord with the twelve hands

10. Om Dvinannetraya namaha
Hail to the Lord with the twelve eyes

11. Om Saktidharaya namaha
Hail to the wielder of the Lance!

12. Om Pisidasaprabhajanaya namaha
Praise be to the destroyer of the Asuras

13. Om Tarakasurasamharine namaha
Praise be to the slāyar of Tārakāsuran

14. Om Raksobalavimardanaya namaha
Praise be to the Victor of the Asuric forces

15. Om Mattaya namaha
Praise be to the Lord of felicity

16. Om Pramattaya namaha
Praise be to the Lord of bliss

17. Om Unmattaya namaha
Hail Oh passionate One

18. Om Surasainyasuraksakaya namaha
Hail Saviour of the Devas

19. Om Devasenapataye namaha
Hail Commander of the Heavenly hosts

20. Om Pragnya namaha
Hail, Lord of Wisdom

21. Om Kripalave namaha
Hail Compassionate One

22. Om Bhaktavatsalāya namaha
Lover of devout ones, Praise be to Thee

23. Om Umasutaya namaha
Son of Uma—Praise be to Thee

24. Om Saktidharaya namaha
Mighty Lord—Praise be to Thee

25. Om Kumaraya namaha
Eternal youth—Praise be to Thee

26. Om Krauncadharanaya namaha
He who reft asunder the Krauñca Mount—Praise be to Thee

27. Om Senanye namaha
Praise be to the Army Chief

28. Om Agnijanmane namaha
To the effulgence of Fire, all Hail

29. Om Visakhaya namaha
To Him who shone on the astral Visakha—All Hail

30. Om Shankaratmajaya namaha
Thou Son of Sankara—All Hail

31. Om Sivasvamine namaha
Thou Preceptor of Siva—All Hail

32. Om Ganaswamine namaha
On Lord of the Ganas—All Hail

33. Om Sarvasvamine namaha
On Lord, God Almighty, All Hail

34. Om Sanatanaya namaha
Oh Lord eternal, Praise be to Thee

35. Om Anantasaktaye namaha
Thou potent Lord, Praise be to Thee

36. Om Aksobhyaya namaha
Unsullied by arrows art Thou—Praise be to Thee

37. Om Parvatīpriyanandanaya namaha
Thou beloved of Parvati, Praise be to Thee

38. Om Gangasutaya namaha
Oh, son of Goddess Ganga—Praise be to Thee

39. Om Sarodbhutaya namaha
Thou who did’st nestle in the Saravana Lake

40. Om Atmabhuve namaha
Thou Unborn Lord

41. Om Pavakatmajaya namaha
Thou who art born of Fire

42. Om Mayadharaya namaha
Energy Art Thou—Praise be to Thee

43. Om Prajrimbhaya namaha
Praise be to thee Auspicious One

44. Om Ujjrimbhaya namaha
Praise be to the Invincible One

45. Om Kamalasanasamstutaya namaha
Praise be to the Lord extolled by Brahma

46. Om Ekavarnaya namaha
The one Word art Thou—All Hail

47. Om Dvivarnaya namaha
In Two Art Thou—All Hail

48. Om Trivarnaya namaha
Thou Art the Three—All Hail

49. Om Sumanoharaya namaha
Thou Stealer of pure hearts—All Hail

50. Om Caturvarnaya namaha
In four Art Thou—All Hail

51. Om Pancavarnaya namaha
In five letters Art Thou—All Hail

52. Om Prajapataye namaha
Father of all Creation—All Hail

53. Om Trumbaya namaha
Praise be to Thee, Oh Peerless One

54. Om Agnigarbhaya namaha
Thou who dost sustain the fire

55. Om Samigarbhaya namaha
Hail Thou who arose out of the Vanni flame

56. Om Visvaretase namaha
Thou glory of the Absolute Paramasivam, All Hail

57. Om Surarighne namaha
Oh, Subduer of the foes of the Devas, All Hail

58. Om Hiranyavarnaya namaha
Thou resplendent One, All Hail

59. Om Subhakrite namaha
Thou Auspicious One—All Hail

60. Om Vasumate namaha
Thou Oh Splendour of the Vasus All Hail

61. Om Vatuvesabhrite namaha
Praise be to Thee, Oh lover of celibacy

62. Om Bhushane namaha
Thou Luminous Sun—All Hail

63. Om Kapastaye namaha
Thou Effulgence divine, All Hail

64. Om Gahanaya namaha
Thou Omniscient One—All Hail

65. Om Chandravarnaya namaha
Thou Radiance of the Moon—Praise be to Thee

66. Om Kaladharaya namaha
Thou who adorns the crescent—Praise be to Thee

67. Om Mayadharaya namaha
Engergy art Thou—Praise be to Thee

68. Om Mahamayine namaha
Great Artist of Deception too art Thou, Praise be to Thee

69. Om Kaivalyaya namaha
Everlasting joy of attainment—Praise be to Thee

70. Om Sahatatmakaya namaha
Art all-pervading—All Hail

71. Om VisvayOnaye namaha
Source of all Existence—All Hail

72. Om Ameyatmane namaha
Oh, Supreme Splendour, All Hail

73. Om Tejonidhaye namaha
Illumination divine—All Hail

74. Om Anamayaya namaha
Savior of all ills—All Hail

75. Om Parameshtine namaha
Thou art Immaculate Lord, Praise be to Thee

76. Om Parabrahmane namaha
Thou Transcendant One, Praise be to Thee

77. Om Vedagarbhaya namaha
The Source of the Vedas art Thou, Praise be to Thee

78. Om Viratsutaya namaha
Immanent Art Thou in the Universe, Praise be to Thee

79. Om Pulindakanyabhartre namaha
Praise be to the Lord of Valli, the Vedda belle

80. Om Mahasarasvatavradaya namaha
Praise be to the source of Gnosis

81.Om asrita Kiladhatre namaha
Praise be to Him who showers grace on those who seek his solace

82. Om Choraghnaya namaha
Praise be to Him who annihilates those who steal

83. Om Roganasanaya namaha
Praise be to the divine Healer

84. Om Anantamurtaye namaha
Praise be Thine whose forms are endless

85. Om anandaya namaha
Praise be Thine, Oh Thou infinite Bliss

86. Om Shikhandīkritagedanaya namaha
Praise be Thine, Thou Lord of peacock banner!

87. Om Dambhaya namaha
Praise be Thine, Oh lover of gay exuberance

88. Om Paramadambhaya namaha
Praise be Thine, Thou lover of supreme exuberance

89. Om Mahadambhaya namaha
Praise be Thine, Oh Lord of lofty magnificence

90. Om Vrishakapaye namaha
Thou who art the culmination of righteousness—All Hail

91. Om Karanopatadehaya namaha
Thou who deigned embodiment for a cause—All Hail

92. Om Karanatita Vigrahaya namaha
Form transcending causal experience

93. Om Anishvaraya namaha
Oh Eternal peerless plentitude, All Hail

94. Om Amritaya namaha
Thou Ambrosia of Life—All Hail

95.Om Pranaya namaha
Thou life of life, Praise unto Thee

96. Om Pranayamaparayanaya namaha
Thou support of all beings—Praise unto Thee

97. Om Vritakandare namaha
Praise unto Thee who subjugates all hostile forces

98. Om Viraghnaya namaha
Thou vanquisher of heroic opponents, Praise unto Thee

99. Om Raktashyamagalaya namaha
Thou art Love, and of crimson beauty— Praise unto Thee

100. Om Mahate namaha
Oh Consummation of glory, All Praise to Thee

101. Om Subrahmanyaya namaha
We praise Thee, Oh effulgent Radiance

102. Om Paravaraya namaha
Oh Supreme Goodness, Praise unto Thee

103. Om Brahmanyaya namaha
We praise Thee, luminous wisdom serene

104. Om Brahmanapriyaya namaha
Thou who art beloved of seers—Praise unto Thee

105. Om Loka Gurave Namaha
Oh universal Teacher, All Praise to Thee

106. Om Guhapriyaya Namaha
We praise Thee, In-dweller in the core of our hearts

107.Om Aksayaphalapradaya namaha
We praise Thee, Oh bestower of indestructible results ineffable

108.Om Sri Subrahmanyaya namaha
We praise Thee, most glorious effulgent Radiance

View our collection of Murugan statues here

6. Sri Subramanya Bhujaga Stotram : This mantra is believed to remove Kuja dosha, delayed marriages, clashes, legal disputes, disturbed married life etc.

“Bhajeham kumaram bhavnikumaram galollasiharamNamtsya edwiharam, repustomaparam nrusimhavatramSada nirvikaram guham nirvicharam

Namameesa putraam japashonagatram kuraraatisatrumRuvemdwagni neetram, mahabahrnipatram sivasabjamitramPrabhaswatkaltrayam puranam pavitram

Aneekarkakoti prabhavasyalamtam manoharimanikyaBhooshojwalam tam, sritanamabheestam nisamtamKrupavarikallola bhastkataksham varjanmanoharisoNambujaksham, prayogapradana pravhaikadaksham baje Kanti kantam parastomarakham

Sukumdaprasoonavalisobhitamgam saratpoorna chandraprabha Kantikantam, sirisha prasunabhiramam bhavatam bhaje deva Senapatim vallabham tam

Sukastoorisimdooraswalllalatamdayapoorna chittammaha Deviputram, raveedoolllasadratna rajatkireetam bhajekreedita Kasagangadikootam“

View All Our Mantras to Hindu Gods
including English and Sanskrit translations

10 Kali Mantras	15 Saraswati Mantras	4 Ganesha Mantras
6 Murugan Mantras	8 Krishna Mantras	7 Hanuman Mantras
3 Lakshmi Mantras	8 Vishnu Mantras	5 Shiva Mantras

4 Ganesha Mantras, Hymns, Chants to Appease Lord Ganapati

Heramba Ganapati — View all of our Ganesh statues

The Hindu God Ganesha is considered to be the master of wisdom, guardian of knowledge and obstacle remover. All the devotees invoke prayers in favor of Ganesha to bring in positive energy to them and favorable results to their ventures. The Ganesha mantras are also known as Siddhi Mantras. Ganesha is known in different forms and by a number of names, and some of the names are Ganapati, Vignesha, Pillayar, Vinayak, Ekadenta, Lambodara, Gajanana.

Ganesh is usually depicted colored red; he is pot bellied, has one tusk broken, and has four arms that may hold a noose called a pasam, an elephant goad, and a pot of rice, or his favorite sweets, laddus. His appetite for these sweets is legendary and offerings of them are often left at his shrine.

Ganesh is also patron of letters and of learning; he is the legendary scribe who, using his commonly held broken tusk, wrote down parts of the Mahabharata Epic.

Here, are some of the most popular mantras of Lord Ganesha, which are used to please Him.

1. Ganesha Dwaadasha Nama shlokam:

This prayer mentions the 12 names of the Lord Ganesha. These verses are believed to be recited by Sage Narada in order to please Lord Ganesha.

“Pranamya Shirasa Devam
Gauriputram Vinaayakam
Bhakataavaas am Smare
Nityam Aayush Kaamartha Siddhaye”

Meaning: Salutations to the Lord, who is the son of Gowri, and He who resides deep in the heart of the devotees, blessing them always with good health and prosperity.

“Prathamam Vakratundam
ChaEkadantam Dwiteeyakam
Thriteeyam Krishna Pingaaksham
Gajavaktram Chaturthakam”

Meaning: This stanza marks the beginning of twelve names.
First as the Lord with the curved trunk;
Second as the one with only one tusk,
Third as the one with black (red/brown) eyes,
Fourth as the one with giant structure

“Lambodaram Panchamaam
ChaShashtam Vikatameva
ChaSaptamam Vighnaraajendram
Dhoomravarnam Tathaashtamam“

Meaning: Fifth, as the one with a big (long) stomach,
Sixth, as the one with a huge body,
Seven, as the remover of obstacles,
Eighth, as the one with smoke gray color

“Navamam Phaalachandram
ChaDasamam Tu Vinaayakam
Ekaadasam Ganapatim
Dvaadasam Tu Gajaananam“

Meaning: Ninth, as the one with the moon on the front of His head,
Tenth, as the foremost leader,
Eleventh, as the leader of the ganas,
Twelfth as the one with elephant face

“Dvaadasaitaani Naamaani
Trisandhyam Yah Pathernnarah
Na Cha Vighna Bhayam
TasyaSarva Siddhikaram Prabho“

If a person remembers these twelve names of the Lord Ganesha, three times in a day. Then he will have all his obstacles and fear removed and will attain success.

2. GanaNayaka Ashtakam:

This mantra contains eight verses or hymns for invoking Lord Ganesha.

“Ekadantam Mahaakaayam
Taptakaajnchana sannibham
LambodaraM VishaalaaxaM
Vande Ham GaNanaayakam“

Meaning: You are one tusked, have a huge, massive and a hot-golden colored body. You have a large pot like belly, beautiful eyes. I bow to you the leader of ganas (followers of Lord Shiva

“Mounji Krishnajeenadharam
NaagaYagnopaveethanam
Bhalendu Sakalam Moulim
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: You are the one who is victorious and has the smoke-hued color body and who uses snake as a holy thread that is tied around the belly. The one who has a waxing moon on his head, I bow to you the leader of the ganas.

“Chitraratna Vichitragam
Chitrmaalaa Vibhushitham
Kamarupadharam Devam
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: The one who makes a picture-perfect pose. He has a garland adorning around his neck and takes the form of Kama Roop. I bow to you the leader of ganas.

“Gajavaktam SuraSreshtam
Karnachamara Bhushitham
Pasamkusadharam Devam
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: The one with an elephant face and still considered the best. He is beautifully adorned with karnchamra. He holds Pashan and Kusha, weapons used in war. I bow to the leader of the ganas.

“Mushikootham maaruhya
Devasura Mahaahavey
Yooddukamam Mahaaveeram
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: He uses mooshika as his chariot, the one who is prayed by everyone and the one who is an exceptionally valiant. I bow to that Lord Ganesha.

“Yaksha Kinnera Gandharva
Siddi Vidhyadharay Sadha
Stutyamanam MahaaBhaahum
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: The one to whom yaksha, kinnera and gandharva pray. He is the only one who has the vidya to acquire opulence, and whose prayers are sung by people. He who has strong arms, I bow to the leader of the ganas.

“Ambika Hryudayanandham
Matrubhihi Pariveshtitham
BhaktaPriyam Madhoonmatham
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: He is the one who is dear to the mother, who is always ready to serve his mother anytime, who is dear to his devotees and who ends the wars; I bow to the leader of the ganas.

“SarvaVignaharam Devam
SarvaVigna Vivarjetham
Sarvasiddi Pradhataaram
Vande Ham Gananayakam“

Meaning: He is the Lord who can take care of all our problems, who weakens all the obstacles and problems that come our way to success and the one who gives all types of Siddhi. I bow to the leader of the ganas.

“GanAshtakam Idham Punyam
Yah Pateth Satatham Narah
Siddyanthi Sarva kaaryaani
Vidhayaavan Dhanavaan Bhaveth“

Meaning: This GanAshtakam gives the virtue to those who read it with devotion. This Ashtakam proves beneficial to those who read it, as it makes the person intelligent and wealthy.

“Om gam ganapathi namaha“

Meaning: Om –Salutations to the Lord.
Gam — the secret power sound of Ganesh and is known as His bija mantra.
Ganapathi — Another name of Ganesh
Namaha – I bow to you, my Lord.

3. Bija Mantra

“Aum shrim hrim klim
glaum gam ganapataye
vara varada sarva
janamme vashamanaya svaha“

4. Ganesh Gayatri Mantra

“Aum Ekadantaya Vidmahe Vakratundaya Dheemahi
Tanno Danti Prachodayat Aum sri kaala svaroopaaya Vidmahe
Kaalaatheethaaya Dheemahi
Thanno kaala yoga shodasa ganapathi prachodayath“

Meaning: We devote our thoughts to the One Tusked Lord. We meditate upon Him who has a Curved trunk and May the tusked one guide us on the right path.

View quotes about Lord Ganesha

View All Our Mantras to Hindu Gods
including English and Sanskrit translations

10 Kali Mantras	15 Saraswati Mantras	4 Ganesha Mantras
6 Murugan Mantras	8 Krishna Mantras	7 Hanuman Mantras
3 Lakshmi Mantras	8 Vishnu Mantras	5 Shiva Mantras

32 Forms of Lord Ganesha

Bronze set of the 32 forms of Ganesh — View our bronze set of the 32 forms of Ganesh

Lord Ganesha is invoked as Vighneswara in the launch of an event or business by majority of the Hindus as he is believed to be the obstacle remover. Lord Ganesha is also considered as the God of auspicious beginnings and bestower of fortune in abundance. He is the son of Lord Shiva and Hindu Goddess Parvati. The Ganesha Purana describes the 32 forms of Lord Ganesha and among them, Mahaganapathi is widely worshiped. The first 16 forms of Ganesha are known by the name “Shodasa Ganapati” and the later ones are known as “Ekavimsathi”. Here, let us have a look at all the 32 forms of Lord Ganesha.

1. Bala Ganapathi: It depicts the child like form of Ganesha and represents earth. The idol of Bala Ganapathi is elephant faced and has four hands holding the fruits of the Earth – Mango, Jackfruit, Banana and Sugarcane in his four hands. His trunk garners His favorite sweet; the modaka. He is believed to save the devotees from sin.

2. Bhakti Ganapati: It is the devotee form of Lord Ganesha. He is portrayed to have four arms holding coconut, Mango, Banana and sweet made of Jaggery (Cup of Payasam).

3. Dhundhi Ganapati: He is known as the sought after Ganapati as he helps his devotees to attain moksha through spiritual studies. He has four hands bearing the japa beads mala, broken tusk, a pot of precious gems and ax.

4. Durga Ganapati: He is the invincible Ganapati paying attribute to Mother Durga and is depicted with 8 arms holding a bow and arrow, goad and noose, prayer beads, a rose apple and his broken tusk.

5. Dvija Ganapati: The word “Dvija” means born twice. It reminds us the story of Lord Shiva beheading Ganesha and resurrecting Him with an elephant’s head. As per Upanayana, Dvija Ganapati is considered equivalent to Lord Brahma. He is represented with four heads and four hands holding palm-leaf inscription, a staff, meditation beads, water pot, noose and goad.

6. Dvimukha Ganapati: It is a unique form of Ganapati with two heads, sees in all directions and in His 4 arms the goad, noose, a pot of gems and his tusk. A jeweled crown graces his head.

7. Ekadanta Ganapati: As the name suggest “single tusked” Ganapati. This form is special as He is having a large belly than in any other form which signifies that all the manifestation of the universe is within him. His hands hold broken tusk, Ladu, japa beads mala, and an axe to cut the bond of ignorance.

8. Ekakshara Ganapati: In this form Ganapati identified with Single Syllable, third eye and crescent moon. The single syllable comes from the seed letter “Gam”, which is a pronominal sound of “OM”. He sits on yogic lotus posture on his vehicle Mooshika. With one hand he grants boons and the others hold pomegranate, elephant goad and noose.

9. Haridra Ganapati: The kumkuma coloured Ganapati and is seated on a posh royal throne with calm face. His tusk holds his favorite sweet modak, his hands wield the noose and goad.

10. Heramba Ganapati: He is the Mother’s beloved son and a rare form in which the Lord appears with five heads and ten hands. He is also known as magnificent Protector of the weak. The Abhya Mudra depicted in his right hand bestows blessing and the main left hand grants wishes. On the other hands holds a noose, japa beads mala (Rudrashaka), a battle axe, a battle hammer, his broken tusk as a weapon, garland, a fruit and his favorite sweet Modaka.

11. Kshipra Ganapati: He is also known as Ganapati who is easy to appease and gives quick reward to the devotees. He is depicted to have a broken tusk and four hands holding a noose, goad and a sprig of the kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling) tree. In His uplifted trunk He holds a tiny pot of precious jewels which is considered as a symbol of the prosperity he can bestow upon followers.

12. Kshipra Prasada Ganapati: As the name suggest Ganapati the quick rewarder. He sits on a Kusha grass throne and his big belly symbolizes the universe. His hands hold broken tusk, the twig of Kalpavriksha, noose, an elephant goad, pomegranate and a white lotus.

13. Lakshmi Ganapati: Commonly known as Ganapati the fortunate. He is depicted to have the Goddess Siddhi (Achievement) and Goddess Budhi (Wisdom) on both thighs. He has 8 hands, gesturing varada mudra, Abhya Mudra and other hands holds green Parrot, a Pomegranate, a sword, a noose, elephant goad, sprig of Kalpavriksha (Wish fulfilling tree) and water vessel. Both his consorts hold white lotus flowers.

14. Maha Ganapati: The great Ganapati is popularly worshipped and seated majestically with one of his shaktis on his knee. He is depicted with three eyes and a crescent moon on his head. He has 10 arms holding tusk, a pomegranate, a sugarcane bow, chakra, noose, a blue lily, a sprig of paddy, a lotus, a mace and ratnakumbha.

15. Nritya Ganapati: It is vibrant form of Ganapati the happy dancer. He has four arms and all the fingers have rings. His hands bear a tusk, goad, noose and modaka, His favorite sweet. It is believed that worshiping Nritya Ganapati will bring proficiency and success for the devotees in fine arts.

16. Rinamochana Ganapati: Ganapati the liberator from debts, grants moksha to His devotees. He has four arms and holds noose, a goad, his broken tusk and his favorite fruit – the rose apple.

17. Sankatahara Ganapati: He is the dispeller of sorrow . He is seated on a lotus and has four arms holding a bowl of pudding, a goad and a noose while gesturing the boon-granting varada mudra. He also has His consort with Him.

18. Shakti Ganapati: As the name suggest it is the powerful form of Lord Ganesha and is a Tantric worship form. He has 4 hands and embraces Shakti Devi seated on his left knee. His right hand is in Abhya Mudra bestows blessing to devotees and the rest hands hold garland, noose and goad.

19. Siddhi Ganapati: It is the accomplished form of Lord Ganesha, where He is in a relaxed form as he masters intellect. He bears in his four hands, a posy of flowers, a mango, a stalk of sugarcane plant with leaves and roots and the battle axe. His trunk curves around a sweet sesame ball.

20. Sinha Ganapati: He is known as the fearless Ganapati and has 8 arms. He is seated on a tiger and displays another lion, a twig from the kalpvriksh, the veena, a lotus flower, a floral bouquet and a pot of gems in his hands. This form symbolizes great courage and strength.

21. Srishti Ganapati: Ganapati in this form is the creator or as the Lord of happy manifestations. He has four hands bearing broken tusk, mango fruit, elephant goad, and noose. He is seated in his favorite Mooshika Vahana. It is believed that He will help his devotees to attain the power of discrimination.

22. Taruna Ganapati: It is the youthful form of Ganesha and is believed that he blesses his devotee with young and beautiful looks. He is depicted as bearing a goad and noose, green paddy, a sugarcane stalk, rose apple and wood apple in His eight hands, which symbolize fertility.

23. Trimukha Ganapati: The three faced Ganapati with 6 arms holding prayer beads, clasp a goad, noose and a pot of nectar. Posture depicts Abhaya mudra on His right hand and varada mudra on His left.

24. Tryakshara Ganapati: Also known as Lord of the three letters (A-U-M). Lord has 3 eyes and 4 hands. He has big floppy ears with fly whisks and hands carries the broken tusk, goad, noose and mango and His trunk often seen grasps modaka.

25. Ucchhishta Ganapati: It means “the lord of blessed offering and the lord of superiority”. The Lord is sitting posture with Shakti Devi on His left thigh. He has 6 hands and the tusk is not curled. His hands hold the veena, a blue lotus, pomegranate, meditation beads and a stalk of paddy.

26. Uddanda Ganapati: He is the enforcer of Dharma and has ten arms well equipped with weapons. His hands bear the blue lily, sugar cane stalk, lotus, mace, noose, paddy, a broken tusk and a garland. He has his consort Sakthi with him.

27. Urdhva Ganapati: It is the elevated Ganapati and is depicted in sitting posture with His consort and has six arms holding single holds sprig of paddy, a lotus, a blue lily, a sugar cane bow, arrow and a mace.

28. Varada Ganapati: Also known as the boon giver Ganapati with 3 eyes, crescent, crown and 4 arms. His hands hold the noose, goad and a pot of honey. He has Devi Shakthi on his side and encloses a pot of jewels in His trunk.

29. Vighna Ganapati: He is also known as the “Lord of Obstacles” as He is the one who removes all the obstacles from the life of His devotees. He has eight arms and His weaponry to fight impediments is the noose, goad, axe, discus and a sharp tusk and the rest of the arms hold flower-tipped arrow, sugarcane and a modak.

30. Vijaya Ganapati: Ganapati the victorious one. He is depicted with seated atop his divine vehicle, Mooshika, the mouse. His four arms bear a broken tusk, noose, goad and a ripe mango.

31. Vira Ganapati: It is the Valiant form of Lord Ganesha and has 16-arms. Lord Ganesh is depicted in the standing posture and strong with a authentic armory of weapons, which include goad, banner, bow and arrow, goblin, discus, sword, shield, large hammer, spear, sword, axe, trident, noose, mace and chakra.It is believed that Vira Ganapati vanquishes both ignorance and evil.

32. Yoga Ganapati: He is a yogic posture with his knees trapped and in complete meditation. His hands hold a stalk of sugar cane, a staff, prayer beads and a noose.

Lord Ganesha is one of the most worshiped deities by Hindus and they believe that he has taken 32 forms to save the devotees from the different issues that may arise in every stages of life. You can find Ganesha in almost all Hindu temples around the world and he is bestowing his devotees with blessings.

The Spread of Hindu God Ganesh into Buddhism

Many people are unaware that although a renowned Hindu deity, Ganesh is also worshiped by Buddhists.

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It is said that during the 10^th century, merchants traveling from Asia began to worship Lord Ganesh. As their devotion and teachings spread among the trading community, many other traders began to worship Ganesh as well. His role as Remover of Obstacles was very much important to their journeys in trade as the hoped for safe voyages and safety from harm while at sea. Lord Ganesh therefore became the primary deity associated with traders. They would invoke his image before any other god whenever hardship would arise.

When Hindus began to spread across to the Malay Archipelago in Southeast Asia they took with them not only their culture but their particular fondness for Ganesh. Statues were erected throughout the region in his honor. Hindus migration further into Southeast Asia such as in Indochina, brought the practice of worship of Hindu deity’s right alongside Buddhists. It is here that Buddhists alike began to adopt their fondness for Ganesh as Remover of Obstacles. Even today in Buddhist Thailand Ganesh is worshiped as God of Success. Within Mahayana Buddhism Ganesh is appears in the form of the Buddhist god Vinayaka. His image often appears in Buddhist scriptures shown dancing.

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