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Pilliyarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar, TN godsownweb.blogspot.com |
Ganesha: The Most Popular Hindu Deity
Among the deities in the Hindu pantheon, Lord Ganesha is one of the most well-known and widely worshipped figures. His popularity spans across India, and his worship transcends denominations within Hinduism. Daily, thousands of devotees flock to Ganesha temples, seeking his blessings. In Tamil Nadu, a Vinayaka temple can be found in almost every village, often situated under a large Peepal tree, known as the "Arasamaram," where villagers traditionally hold their Panchayat meetings. Here, Ganesha is affectionately referred to as "Arasamarathadi Pilliyar" (the Ganesha who resides under the Peepal tree).
Names and Reverence
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Small Ganapathy temple in a TN Village under Pepal treecommons.wikimedia.org |
Ganesha, also known as Ganapati, Vinayaka, Pillaiyar, and Binayak, is reered not only by Hindus but also by Jain and Buddhist communities. As "Vighnaharta," or the remover of obstacles, he plays a crucial role in both spiritual and material life. In Tamil, there is a popular saying: "Vinayakar Vinai Theerpavan," meaning "Ganesha removes obstacles." His worship is considered essential for removing impediments and ensuring smooth progress, whether in mundane matters or spiritual practices. Ganesha is also seen as a patron of arts, sciences, intellect, and wisdom, making him particularly popular among students, especially during exam periods.
Rituals and Ceremonies
Ganesha's presence is invoked in all auspicious ceremonies, including weddings, business openings, and foundation-laying ceremonies for new buildings. Being the "God of Beginnings," it is customary to seek his blessings at the inception of any event. For temple consecration ceremonies, the first ritual performed is the "Ganapati Homam," where Vedic hymns dedicated to Ganesha are chanted to ensure that the event proceeds without obstacles.
Mythological Significance
There are numerous myths surrounding Ganesha's birth, exploits, and adventures. His distinctive iconography—a human body with an elephant head—adds to his appeal and uniqueness. Historically, Ganesha worship dates back to the 2nd century AD, but it gained prominence during the Gupta period (4th–5th centuries AD). As the son of Shiva and Parvati, Ganesha holds an important position in the Shaivism tradition. Texts such as the Ganesha Purana, Mudgala Purana, and Ganapati Atharvashirsa detail his significance, with other references found in the Brahma Purana and Brahmanda Purana.
Iconography and Attributes
Ganesha is most commonly depicted sitting on a raised platform with his mount, a shrew or mouse, below him. However, he is also depicted in various other postures, including standing and dancing. One of the most popular images of Ganesha is the Pillaiyarpatti Vinayagar, located in Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu, which is believed to bring prosperity and welfare to those who worship him regularly.
Iconographically, Ganesha is often shown holding his own broken tusk in his lower right hand and a delicacy (commonly a modaka or kozhukattai) in his lower left hand, which he samples with his trunk. His large, protruding belly is a distinctive feature, symbolizing the universe. His association with serpents, which may be seen coiled around his stomach or held in his hand, reflects his cosmic significance.
Symbolism and Incarnations
Ganesha's attributes are not limited to his broken tusk or large belly. He is sometimes depicted with multiple arms, holding various objects, reflecting his diverse powers and roles. In some forms, Ganesha has as many as 16 arms, though the most common depiction shows him with four. His vahana (mount) is typically a mouse, but in different incarnations described in the Ganesha Purana, he rides other animals like a lion, peacock, or horse.
Role as Vighnaharta
As "Vighneshvara," the Lord of Obstacles, Ganesha plays a dual role. While he is known for removing obstacles, he also places them in the path of those who require a lesson or check. This aspect of his personality highlights his role as a deity of both challenges and solutions, making him a figure of great importance in everyday Hindu life.
Universal Worship and Appeal
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| Pilliyarpatti Vinayagar temple TN. Flicker.com |
Ganesha's worship is universal across India and has even spread to Southeast Asian countries where large Indian populations reside. His association with wisdom, intellect, and learning makes him particularly revered by students and scholars. His connection with "Buddhi" (intelligence), "Siddhi" (spiritual power), and "Riddhi" (prosperity) further enhances his appeal.
In every Hindu home, it is common to find an image or idol of Ganesha. Even among orthodox Vaishnavites, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Ganesha is revered as "Thumbikai Azhwar" (the saint with an elephant trunk). His blessings are sought at the beginning of prayers and artistic performances, and his fondness for sweets, especially modakas and laddus, adds a charming element to his personality.
In summary, Ganesha’s universal appeal, mythological significance, and powerful symbolism as the remover of obstacles make him one of the most beloved and worshipped deities in Hinduism.
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