Ganesha

Ganesha, also known as Ganesh or Ganapati, is a major deity in Hinduism, often revered as the god of wisdom, knowledge, and new beginnings. He is depicted as a human-like figure with an elephant head and is often portrayed with multiple arms, holding various symbolic objects.

Ganesha is widely worshipped throughout India and beyond and is associated with the removal of obstacles and the granting of blessings. He is often invoked at the beginning of important ceremonies or rituals, as a symbol of good luck and success.

One of the most popular stories about Ganesha involves his creation by the goddess Parvati. She sculpted a figure out of clay and brought it to life, and Ganesha was born. In another well-known story, Ganesha's elephant head was the result of a misunderstanding between him and the god Shiva, who mistakenly beheaded Ganesha and replaced his head with that of an elephant.

Ganesha's image and symbolism have had a significant impact on Indian culture, particularly in the arts. He is often depicted in sculptures, paintings, and other forms of art, and is a popular subject for tattoos and other body art. In addition to his religious significance, Ganesha has also become a popular figure in popular culture, particularly in India. His image has been used in advertising, movies, and other forms of media, and he is often seen as a symbol of good luck and success.