being
Ganesh
गणेश
Hindu remover of obstacles and patron of new beginnings.
Ganesha (गणेश) is among the most beloved deities of Hinduism — the elephant-headed god revered as the remover of obstacles and the patron of beginnings, wisdom, and good fortune. Son of Shiva and Parvati, he is honoured at the start of any new venture, journey, or undertaking, invoked to clear the path ahead.
His symbolism. His elephant head signifies wisdom and strength; his large ears, the value of listening; the broken tusk, sacrifice; and the mouse at his feet, the mastery of desire. He is also the patron of arts, letters, and learning.
In practice. Practitioners honour Ganesha before new beginnings, when facing obstacles, or when seeking wisdom and an auspicious start — often with the mantra Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha.
Honouring Ganesha is a faith- and intention-based spiritual practice drawn from a living tradition — offered for reflection and reverence.
Take this glossary entry into your practice
This entry is open to everyone. A free account adds saved searches, the sequences you build yourself, and your own notes — no card, no trial clock.
Open this library on your phone
Scan the code to carry on reading on your phone. The app itself is on its way to the App Store.

