DwarkaMai - Sai Baba Forum

Indian Spirituality => Stories from Ancient India => Topic started by: PiyaSoni on November 07, 2011, 03:55:52 AM

Title: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 07, 2011, 03:55:52 AM
"Tulsi Cursed By Ganesha"                                {Found on Net Sharing}


(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/tulsi_ganesha.jpg)Tulsi (an herb from the basil family) was a beautiful maiden who, when she saw the resplendent Ganesha, fell in love with him and wished to marry him.

Ganesha though, was a confirmed bachelor (at least according to some legends) and refused to oblige her. The enraged Tulsi cursed him that one day, he would indeed break his vow of celibacy.

Ganesha cursed her in return, that she would marry a demon and later, turn into a plant.

Tulsi realized her folly and pleaded for mercy until Ganesha relented.

“You will be the most fragrant plant of all”, Ganesha said, “one that will please all the gods. Your leaves will be used especially in the worship of Vishnu.

But you will never be present where I am worshiped.”


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 07, 2011, 03:59:39 AM
"Ganesha defeats Gana"


(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/Ganesha_Gana.jpg) Vinakaya or Gananayaka is another name for Ganesha.

Gananayaka is the lord of Ganas or one who defeats Gana. A beautiful son named Gana was born to the King Abhijit and queen Gunavati. He was very bright and strong. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, pleased with his devotion granted him some boons.

However, this increased Gana's ego. He soon fell into bad company. One day he visited sage Kapila's ashram. Kapila had a gem called Chintamani that was wish fulfilling and could provide food for thousands.

When Gana saw this, he wanted to possess the gem. Kapila did not want to give it to him. But Gana forcibly took it away from him. Kapila prayed to Lord Ganesha. Ganesha appeared in Gana's dream and cut off his head. Gana, on waking up, did not repent but became angry and took his army to kill Kapila. Gana's father, Abhijit, pleaded with Gana to give Kapila back his gem but Gana did not heed the advice. However, on reaching Kapila's ashram he found that Ganesha had assembled an army.

In a fierce fight, Gana was killed by Ganesha and Ganesha restored the " Chintamani " to Kapila. Kapila, however, gave it back to Ganesha saying that even a small gem like this could cause trouble, as wealth is the root of many problems in this world. Kapila requested Ganesha to stay back.

From then on, this place (Theur near Pune) was called 'Chintamani Vinayaka'.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 08, 2011, 12:42:44 AM
"Intelligent Ganesha"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/Intelligent_Ganesha.jpg) Ganesha had a brother whose name was Kartikeya. Ganesha was very clever and sweet natured,where as Kartikeya was very short tempered Both of them used to play on the mountains and sometimes they used to quarrel.

So once they had a very big quarrel and each of them thought that the other one was guilty. The matter could not be settled. Finally they soon approached their parents to get justice.

Lord Shiva and Parvati heard both the sides and then lord Shiva had an idea "children," he said to them,"let us settle it this way you have to go around the world and one who comes back first will be considered to be the right one the other one wrong ! Do you agree?" "yes ! Yes !! Agreed both of them Kartikeya always rode a peacock and was very fast at it while Ganesha used a little rat for riding. Kartikeya was sure that he would win the race because his peacock was much faster than the rat.

Kartikeya immidiately jumped on his peacock and rode very fast as he could. Ganesha first had a look at his big stomach and then at his little rat. He was sure that he can never win the race.Then Kartikeya was already away with his peacock.

And Ganesha just sat down there thinking and suddenly he had a bright idea. He made lord Shiva and mata Parvati sit together and quickly went arround them three times. Soon. Kartikeya came on his peacock after travelling arround the world successfully and told Shiva-Parvati proudly," here I come ! I won and looked at Ganesha "No,"said Ganesha,firmly,"our parents are the mother and father of the world,so going arround them is just like going arround the world! I have done it three times but you have done it only once and that makes me the winner! And Ganesha looked at lord Shiva and Parvati,"am I right or wrong?"he asked them.

"Ganesha is right",said Parvati to Kartikeya," he has won the race ! " Hearing that Kartikeya lost his temper and thought that mother was partial to Ganesha. In a feat of anger he took an oath,"I shall neither look at my mother's, nor any woman's face in the world ! "and Kartikeya kept his word,he never looked at the face of any women in the world.So,in many temples of kartikeya,women do not enter.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 08, 2011, 11:29:51 PM
"Why Ganesha has Elephant face !"


(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/ele_face.jpg) Lord Shiva and Parvati lived on the mountain Kailasa. Many times Shiva used to go to the forest and stayed there doing penance for months.Meanwhile Parvati had to stay alone at home.one day,as usual lord shiva went to the forest,leaving Parvati alone at home. Parvati then wanted to take bath.However there was no one else to look after the house.

So, Parvati was worried. But soon she had an idea.Parvati removed the sandal paste from her body and created a boy from the paste. Parvati then made the boy stand at the door and instructed him not to let anyone enter the house.till she finishes her bath. The boy stood at the door and stopped everyone who visited the house.

Soon lord Shiva returned home and was surprised to see a boy who stopped him from entering in."you can not enter the house ,mother is taking bath", said the boy He got annoyed and asked the boy to move aside.but the boy did not move,but stopped lord Shiva from entering the house. Shiva lost his temper and he chopped off the head of the boy with his trishula.Later,Parvati finished her bath and to her surprise, she saw the headless body of the boy.So Parvati started weeping.Oh my lord ! what have you done ! you have killed my son !

Lord Shiva felt very sorry for his short tempered act.Lord Shiva wished to bring back the boy to his life and he started searching for the chopped head of the boy.But surprisingly the head got vanished and the search was in vain.So he called servants,called "Ganas" and told them,to go to the forest and get the head of first living being you come across. The ganas immidiately rushed to jungle and came across an elephant.they immediately cut off his head and brought it to lord shiva.Lord Shiva put the head on the body of the boy and brought him to life. Parvati was overjoyed to get back her son.The Ganas had helped to bring back the life of the boy,so he was named as "Ganapati".


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 11, 2011, 10:57:11 PM
" Moon Deity Cursed By Ganesha "

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/moon_ganesha.jpg) It was on Ganesha Chaturthi.Ganesha was riding on his little rat and suddenly a snake crossed his path.The rat was terrified and ran off in fright due to which Ganesha fell down in a thorny bush.

The Moon was looking at this from the sky.the Moon laughed loudly at the funny sight of Ganesha's falling down,It annoyed Ganesha so much so that he decided to punish the Moon. Angrily he broke one of his tusks and threw it at the Moon.

As it struck the Moon,Moon lost the brightness.Then the moon went off. The world became dark.People were scared and they screamed and wept.

All the Gods in heaven were worried by this confusion.They prayed to Ganesha," please give back the Moon the brightness, "The Moon also repented. The Moon fell at Ganesh's feet and prayed to be forgiven.

Ganesha relented but he wanted to teach Moon a lesson.So he said, "the first fifteen days of every month,you will get bigger and then the next fifteen days,you will become smaller and smaller. At the end of the month you will look like my tusk.And on the day of Ganesh Chaturthi the person who looks at the Moon will have an allegation of theft on him.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 13, 2011, 11:46:23 PM
"Lord Ganesha’s Marriage"

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6MUp16lfcdM/TSCPXGM6MmI/AAAAAAAABCY/tVdx13T0Xvc/s1600/40169_145422388820678_100000587546031_316361_1600563_n.jpg) According to one tradition, Ganesha was a brahmacarin, that is, unmarried. This pattern is primarily popular in southern India . This tradition was linked to Hindu concepts of the relationship between celibacy and the development of spiritual power.

In the north of India , on the other hand, Ganesha is often portrayed as married to the two daughters of Brahma: Buddhi ((also called Riddhi) intellect) and Siddhi (spiritual power).

As a child Lord Ganesh was once playing with a cat. He pulled its tail and rolled it on the ground. Later, tired of this game, He decided to spend time with His mother, Parvati. He found her covered in dirt and with bruises. Surprised, He asked, “What happened, Mother?” “Remember the cat you were playing with… that was me. I am the Divine power that is exists in all beings.” Lord Ganesh realised that all women are extensions of His mother and decided never to marry.

Another interpretation is that His devotion towards His mother is the reason why He is considered as a celibate bachelor. To Him, she was the most beautiful and a perfect woman. He vowed that He could marry the girl who would match up to His mother’s beauty and divine qualities.It is said that Lord Ganesh was unable to find a suitable mate because of His unique appearance. This bothered Him and He summoned the rats to burrow deep holes in the path of any God who were on their way to get married. The potholes made the journey of the grooms and their marriage processions extremely difficult. Frustrated, they went to Lord Brahma to complain.

Lord Brahma created two beautiful girls Riddhi (Abundance. Opulence, Wealth) and Siddhi / Buddhi (Intellectual and Spiritual Prowess) and they were married to Him. With His two consorts, He had sons Shubha (Auspiciousness) and Labha (Profit) and a daughter named Santoshi (Goddess of Satisfaction / Contentment).The Shiva Purana states that King Prajapati had two daughters - Riddhi and Siddhi. He approached Shiva and Parvati for the marriage of his girls to Lord Ganesh and Lord Kartikeyan / Karthikeyan (Lord Ganesh’s younger brother). But both these girls wished that Lord Ganesh should be their husband and so they were married. It is said that if one has Riddhi but doesn’t have Siddhi / Buddhi then it is worthless.

Possessing only Siddhi without Riddhi is also futile. Lord Ganesh bestows both these blessings to His ardent devotees. If we delve into ourselves we will realize that we are all Ganapatis (Gana is our body made of the Pancha-Mahabhuta (Five elements), Pati stands for master or owner). Thus He shows us the way to achieve both intellect and wealth to enjoy a rewarding life.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 15, 2011, 11:54:20 PM
"Gokarna Mahabaleshwar"


(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/gorakh_maha.jpg) Ravana,the king of lanka, was a great devotee of Shiva. He often went to Kailasa.There he worshipped Shiva with great devotion.Once,as usual, he had gone to Kailas. Lord Shiva was very pleased with his devotion."I am pleased with you" he told Ravana."ask for any boon.

I shall grant it,"when all the world will end in the great floods,"said Ravana, "Lanka should be spared. That's the only boon I want! Shiva was little puzzled. Ravana had already proved troublesome to the gods. Having the boon granted he would trouble the gods still more.

So what should be done? Shiva thought of a clever idea He gave Ravana a Shivalinga." take this Shivalinga,"Shiva told him, "wherever you put it down, it would stick fast there That place will be protected from the floods.

If you wish to protect Lanka,make sure you put it down on reaching Lanka! Ravana was overjoyed. But shiva warned him, "hold it in both hands.If you leave it anywhere else it will stick to that spot,Then it will not be possible to remove it. So be careful with it!"Ravana eagerly started for Lanka. Meanwhile,the gods learnt of Shiva's boon to Ravana. They were horrified They went to Ganesha for help.

They told him what had happened."please do something,God," they pleaded to Ganesha,"so that the Shivalinga does not reach Lanka. If it reaches there;Ravana would become more powerful." Ganesha thought for a moment. He had a bright idea,"all right,"he assured them a solution" I shall see that the Shivalinga does not reach Lanka."then Ganesha, in the disguise of a cowherd, stood in Ravana's path.Ravana had walked a long way, was tired and sweating.He wanted to wipe his sweat. But he could not do so;cause he had the heavy Shivalingain his hands.

Just then Ravana saw the cowherd boystanding in his path.Behind him there was a river."hey boy! Come here." Ravana called out to the boy."What do you want?" the boy asked;without moving from where he stood."I am very thirsty,"replied Ravana. "Please hold this Linga for just a minute. Do not put it down. I wish to go to the river for a drink of water.I shall not take long.""All right!" said, Ganesha "but the Linga seems very heavy; if my hands get tired I shall call you three times If you don't come immediately back, then I shall put it down!" he warned."Don't worry! "Ravana said."I shall be quick."With a great relief he handed over the linga to the boy. Then he hurried to the river.

And as soon as Ravana reached the river; the boy called out;"Ravana, Ravana, Ravana!" and quickly put the linga down.Immediately it stuck there.When Ravana came back from the river;there was no sign of the boy. And the linga had stuck to the ground. Ravana tried to pull it.But it did not move a bit.Yet,because of Ravana's great strength it lost the shape.It now resembles the ear of a cow. That is why it is known as Gokarna.The place became a famous place of pilgrimage. Even to-day we know it as Gokarna Mahabaleshwar.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 22, 2011, 12:11:13 AM
"Agasthyar - Cauvery"


(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/Agasthyar-Cauvery.jpg)  During the wedding of Siva with Parvathi in the Mount Kailas, the entire population, Devas and Rishis had gathered & hence the Northern land dipped down, unable to bear the weight. Lord Siva asked Sage Agasthiar to go to the Podhigai ranges in the Southern land in order to balance the weight. (Agasthiar was very short in stature but his might was so great). Agasthiar was sad that he could not stay & witness the Lord's wedding.

Siva granted that he would still be able to see the wedding from the South. From within his matted locks, he took river Cauvery & filled it in Agasthiar's kamandalam (spouted pot), bidding Cauvery to flow wherever Agasthiar pointed. Agasthiar reached the south & travelled to various Siva Sthalams. Surapaduman was an asura, who had immense power. Indra had run away in fear from his Indralogam, reached Sirgazhi in the southern regios of India & prayed to Lord Siva. He created a beautiful garden & worshipped Lord Siva with the flowers from his garden. But soon, Lord Varuna in fear of Surapaduman did not shower rains & Indran's garden & in fact the whole land suffered from lack of water.

Sage Narada, told Indran of the river Cauvery that Lord Siva had once filled in Agasthiar's kamandalam. Indran prayed to Lord Ganesha for his help. Ganesha took the form of a crow & sat on Agasthiar's kamandalam & toppled it. Agasthiar lifted his hands to shoo off the crow. River Cauvery, took it as a signal for her & began to flow. The crow took the form of a small boy. Agasthiar started chasing the boy trying to strike him on his head with his knuckles.

Ganesha took his original form. Agasthiar was saddened that he had tried to strike Lord Ganesha. He started striking his forehead with his knuckles. Ganesha stopped him & granted that everybody who worshipped him in this manner would be blessed with wisdom. Another version of the same story - Ponni, as Cauvery was originally called, was disrespectful to Agasthiar when he came down south. To teach her a lesson, Agasthiar imprisoned the entire river in his kamandalam. Ganesha on sage Narada's request came in the form of a crow and toppled the kamandalam & set the river free. Ponni was then given a new name, Cauvery (Kaveri).


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on December 05, 2011, 11:22:04 PM
"Vinayagar wrote the Mahabharatham"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/mahabharat.jpg)  Sage Vyasa was meditating in the Himalayas.  Lord Brahma appeared before him and asked him to write the Mahabharatham for the benefit of all. Sage Vyasa said that he could not compose the verse and write it down too and therefore asked for the help of someone wise, who would write down as he sang.
Brahma asked sage Vyasa to pray to Lord Ganesha to help him.  Ganesha told Vyasa that he had enormous work to do and hence he would write it down, only if Vyasa was quick in singing it.
For his turn, Sage Vyasa requested that Ganesha should understand the meaning of the verse and only then put it down in writing.
Vyasa started singing.  Whenever he felt Ganesha was writing too fast for him, he would come with a difficult verse, thus by the time Ganesha could decipher the meaning, he would have composed several more verses in his mind.
In this way, Vyasa completed the Bharatham in 60 lakhs granthams.  This comprises the Kandapuranam, Ramayanam, Savithri Puranam, Nala Puranam and so on.  Lord Ganesha  wrote on Mount Meru using his tusk.  Of these 60 lakh granthams, 30 lakhs are supposed to be in the Deva Logam, 15 lakhs in Yatcha Logam and 14 lakhs in Asura Logam.  Only the remaining 1 lakh granthams is assumed to be on the earth.
Sage Vyasa is supposed to have sung 8,800 granthams, which were difficult for Ganesha to decipher.  He has himself stated that Ganesha, Sage Vyasa himself and his Sugan are probably the only ones who know the meaning of those 8,800 granthams. 

The Mahabharatham is considered the fifth Veda.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on December 13, 2011, 12:21:13 AM
"Vakradhunda Vinayagar"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/vakradhunda.jpg)  When Basmasuran was killed by Siva & Vishnu (Vishnu in the form of Mohini), Duraasadan, Basmasuran's son was angry and upset.

He did tapas & got boons from Siva that he should never die and that all the devas should be under his control, etc. As usual Siva gave him the varam & there was total chaos for some time.

All the Devas ran into hiding & even Brahma & Vishnu ran out of their Brahma Logam & Vaikundam. All of them rushed to Kasi which was ruled by Viswanathar. On hearing of this Duraasadan came to Kasi. All the Gods and Devas rushed away to Kedaram, because the time was not yet right to kill Duraasadan.

Soon, on the prayers of the Devas, an avataram of Lord Ganesha came out of Uma Devi's face. (with five faces, 10 hands, Jada magudam with moon). Uma Devi named him Vakradhundar and gave him her Simha Vahanam (lion).

There ensued a heavy fight between Vakradhundar & Duraasadan. Finally Ganesha took a huge form (Viswa roopam) & placed his feet on Duraasandan's head. Since Ganesha is the form of Gnanam, all evil thoughts & the effects of his evil deeds rushed out of Duraasadan.

Lord Ganesha gave him the job of destroying all evil in Kasi. He remains under Vakradhundar's feet doing his duty.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on December 19, 2011, 11:34:16 PM
"Kubera's pride takes a fall"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/Kubera_fall.jpg)  We should never take undue pride in our material or spiritual accomplishments. The old saying "Pride always leads to a fall." is proved true in the following story. Kubera (the God of wealth) invited Shiva and Parvati to dinner wishing to show off his riches.

But, the couple denied Kubera's request and said that he could feed Ganesha instead. Kubera laughed and said 'I can feed thousands of children like this." Ganesha went to his palace and sat down to eat. He started eating all the food placed in front of him.

As was the custom, more and more food was served to him, as he did not say that he had enough. Soon there was no more food in the palace and so Kubera ordered his troops to get more food from the surrounding villages. But Ganesha continued eating and there was no more food to be found. Still very hungry, Ganesha started eating all the furniture. Kubera became very frightened.

Ganesha told him, " You promised my parents you will feed me. Now, I have to eat you up as I am still very hungry ". Kubera ran away and pleaded with Shiva to save him from Ganesha. Shiva asked Kubera to give up his pride and serve Ganesha a handful of rice. Kubera went back to his palace.

By this time, Ganesha's stomach had become very huge but the child was still hungry. When Kubera served a cup of rice with humility, Ganesha's hunger was satisfied.

This teaches the lesson that handful of puffed rice given with love and eaten with devotion is more important and filling than all the wealth of kubera flaunted to impress the world and all the gods.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on December 26, 2011, 11:49:17 PM
108 NAMES OF LORD GANESHA

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/108_name.jpg)

1. Akhuratha : One who has Mouse as His Charioteer
2. Alampata : Ever Eternal Lord
3. Amit : Incomparable Lord
4. Anantachidrupamayam : Infinite and Consciousness Personified
5. Avaneesh : Lord of the whole World
6. Avighna : Remover of Obstacles
7. Balaganapati : Beloved and Lovable Child
8. Bhalchandra : Moon-Crested Lord
9. Bheema : Huge and Gigantic
10. Bhupati : Lord of the Gods
11. Bhuvanpati : God of the Gods
12. Buddhinath :God of Wisdom
13. Buddhipriya : Knowledge Bestower
14. Buddhividhata : God of Knowledge
15. Chaturbhuj : One who has Four Arms
16. Devadeva : Lord! of All Lords
17. Devantakanashakarin : Destroyer of Evils and Asuras
18. Devavrata : One who accepts all Penances
19. Devendrashika : Protector of All Gods
20. Dharmik : One who gives Charity
21. Dhoomravarna : Smoke-Hued Lord
22. Durja : Invincible Lord
23. Dvaimatura : One who has two Mothers
24. Ekaakshara : He of the Single Syllable
25. Ekadanta : Single-Tusked Lord
26. Ekadrishta : Single-Tusked Lord
27. Eshanputra :Lord Shiva's Son
28. Gadadhara : One who has The Mace as His Weapon
29. Gajakarna :One who has Eyes like an Elephant
30. Gajanana : Elephant-Faced Lord
31. Gajananeti : Elephant-Faced Lord
32. Gajavakra : Trunk of The Elephant
33. Gajavaktra : One who has Mouth like an Elephant
34. Ganadhakshya : Lord of All Ganas (Gods)
35. Ganadhyakshina : Leader of All The Celestial Bodies
36. Ganapati : Lord of All Ganas (Gods)
37. Gaurisuta : The Son of Gauri (Parvati)
38. Gunina : One who is The Master of All Virtues
39. Haridra : One who is Golden Coloured
40. Heramba : Mother's Beloved Son
41. Kapila : Yellowish-Brown Coloured
42. Kaveesha : Master of Poets
43. Krti : Lord of Music
44. Kripalu : Merciful Lord
45. Krishapingaksha : Yellowish-Brown Eyed
46. Kshamakaram :The Place of Forgiveness
47. Kshipra : One who is easy to Appease
48. Lambakarna : Large-Eared Lord
49. Lambodara : The Huge Bellied Lord
50. Mahabala : Enormously Strong Lord
51. Mahaganapati : Omnipotent and Supreme Lord
52. Maheshwaram : Lord of The Universe
53. Mangalamurti : All Auspicious Lord
54. Manomay : Winner of Hearts
55. Mrityuanjaya : Conqueror of Death
56. Mundakarama : Abode of Happiness
57. Muktidaya : Bestower of Eternal Bliss
58. Musikvahana : One who has Mouse as His Charioteer
59. Nadapratithishta : One who Appreciates and Loves Music
60. Namasthetu : Vanquisher of All Evils and Vices and Sins
61. Nandana : Lord Shiva's Son
62. Nideeshwaram : Giver of Wealth and Treasures
63.   Omkara :One who has the Form Of OM
64.   Pitambara : One who has Yellow-Coloured Body
65. Pramoda : Lord of All Abodes
66. Prathameshwara : First Among All
67. Purush : The Omnipotent Personality
68. Rakta : One who has Red-Coloured Body
69. Rudrapriya : Beloved Of Lord Shiva
70. Sarvadevatman : Acceptor of All Celestial Offerings
71. Sarvasiddhanta : Bestower of Skills and Wisdom
72. Sarvatman : Protector of The Universe
73. Shambhavi : The Son of Parvati
74. Shashivarnam : One who has a Moon like Complexion
75. Shoorpakarna : Large-Eared Lord
76. Shuban : All Auspicious Lord
77. Shubhagunakanan : One who is The Master of All Virtues
78. Shweta : One who is as Pure as the White Colour
79. Siddhidhata : Bestower of Success and Accomplishments
80.   Siddhipriya :Bestower of Wishes and Boons
81.   Siddhivinayaka : Bestower of Success
82. Skandapurvaja : Elder Brother of Skand (Lord Kartik)
83. Sumukha : Auspicious Face
84. Sureshwaram : Lord of All Lords
85. Swaroop : Lover of Beauty
86. Tarun : Ageless
87. Uddanda : Nemesis of Evils and Vices
88. Umaputra : The Son of Goddess Uma (Parvati)
89. Vakratunda : Curved Trunk Lord
90. Varaganapati : Bestower of Boons
91. Varaprada : Granter of Wishes and Boons
92. Varadavinayaka : Bestower of Success
93. Veeraganapati : Heroic Lord
94. Vidyavaridhi : God of Wisdom
95. Vighnahara : Remover of Obstacles
96. Vignaharta : Demolisher of Obstacles
97.   Vighnaraja :Lord of All Hindrances
98.   Vighnarajendra : Lord of All Obstacles
99. Vighnavinashanaya : Destroyer of All Obstacles and Impediments
100. Vigneshwara : Lord of All Obstacles
101. Vikat : Huge and Gigantic
102. Vinayaka : Lord of All
103. Vishwamukha : Master of The Universe
104. Vishwaraja : King of The World
105. Yagnakaya : Acceptor of All Sacred and Sacrificial Offerings
106. Yashaskaram : Bestower of Fame and Fortune
107. Yashvasin : Beloved and Ever Popular Lord
108. Yogadhipa : The Lord of Meditation

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!



Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on January 03, 2012, 12:16:17 AM
"Ganesha Kills Demon Gajamugasuram"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/Gajamugasuran.jpg)  There was an asura called Gajamugasuran. He did deep penance and worshipped Lord Siva, who granted him several boons, by which he became extremely powerful.

He put the Devas and rishis to great trouble. He forced the Devas to do 1008 Thoeppukaranams in the morning, 1008 in the afternoon and 1008 in the evening. (Thoepukaranam means to sit down and stand up holding one's ears with crossed hands, left ear with right hand & right ear with left hand).

The Devas prayed to Lord Siva to rescue them from this evil asura. Lord Siva sent Lord Vinayaga to overcome Gajamugasuran.

Vinayagar went with several weapons such as bow & arrow, sword, axe, etc. However, since Gajamugasuran had been granted the boon that he be destroyed by no weapon, none of these weapons used by Lord Vinayaga were effective.

Vinayagar broke off his right tusk and used it to kill Gajamugasuran. Gajamugasuran still rushed at Vinayaga in the form of a mooshikam (small mouse). Vinayagar crushed the ego and vanity of Gajamugasuran and sat on the mooshikam.

The humbled Gajamugasuran bowed before Vinayagar, who accepted the mooshikam as his vahana. Lord Vinayaka is the source of everlasting wisdom. He crushed ego and vanity and reduced it to the size of a mooshikam and used it as his vahana. Lord Vinayagar can be pleased by doing Thoepukaranam.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on January 17, 2012, 12:02:34 AM
"Why Ganesha has broken tusk !"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/brokentusk.jpg)  Ganesha is known as Ekadanta, the one with a single tusk.

The first pertains to his battle with Parashurama, who was the 'Avtaar' of Vishnu, As a human on earth, he meditated on Shiva and obtained the devine axe, parashu,with whose help Parasurama waged wars against all the erring princes and cleared the world of their evils.

Deeplyindebted to Shiva,Parasurama then came to mount Kailasa to pay obeisance to his mentor Ganesha,who was guarding the entrance to his father's chamber,would not let him in,saying he had to wait till he gets the permission from his father,Shiva.

Parasurama felt that he,the devotee,needed no permission. When Ganesha still refused to give in,Parashurama,who was always very hot tempered struck Ganesha's tusk with his axe and broke it.Shiva and Parvati appeared before him and chastised him. Parashurama then apologised and worshipped God Ganesha.

Ganesha then forgave Parashurama and gave him blessings.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on January 20, 2012, 09:13:46 AM

32-Forms Of Ganesha


1) Bala Ganapati

 The child
The elephant face God has four arms and has a colour of a rising sun.The God is holding his favourite "Modak"

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q6HKHbyWClA/TZHrv_B9x_I/AAAAAAAAAAM/R28hTwx_xe4/s1600/Img557bala%20ganapati.gif)
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on January 20, 2012, 07:12:02 PM


2. Taruna Ganapati

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-remRHsL7rjw/TmWLU6sAfdI/AAAAAAAAEXE/A6GErcbC18E/s1600/taruna-ganapati-32-forms-ganesha.jpg)


Eight-armed, Taruna Ganapati, "the Youthful," holds a noose and goad, modaka, wood apple, rose apple, His broken tusk, a sprig of paddy and a sugar cane stalk. His brilliant red color reflects the blossoming of youth.
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on January 20, 2012, 07:15:34 PM


3. Bhakti Ganapati


(http://hindupad.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Bhakti-Ganapathi.jpg)

Shining like the full moon during harvest season and garlanded with flowers, Bhakti Ganapati, dear to devotees, is indeed pleasant to look upon. He holds a banana, a mango, coconut and a bowl of sweet payasa pudding.
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on January 20, 2012, 07:20:40 PM


4. Vira Ganapati

(http://www.flixya.com/files-photo/s/a/n/sanook849619.jpg)





Eight-armed, Taruna Ganapati, "the Youthful," holds a noose and goad, modaka, wood apple, rose apple, His broken tusk, a sprig of paddy and a sugar cane stalk. His brilliant red color reflects the blossoming of youth.
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on January 20, 2012, 07:24:02 PM

5. Shakti Ganapati

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DS6fFoUFQIQ/SjCsytke32I/AAAAAAAADxM/pMo9w9x9h5E/s800/32+Shakti+Ganapati.jpg)





Four-armed and seated with one of His shaktis on His knee, Shakti Ganapati, "the Powerful," of orange-red hue, guards the householder. He holds a garland, noose and goad, and bestows blessings with the abhaya mudra.
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on January 24, 2012, 04:07:24 AM
6. Dvija Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/06dwija.jpg)

Four-headed Dvija Ganapati, "the Twice-born," is moon-like in color. Holding a noose, a goad, an ola leaf scripture, a staff, water vessel and a his japa beads, He reminds one and all of the urgency for disciplined striving.



7. Siddhi Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/07siddhi.jpg)

Golden-Yellow Siddhi Ganapati, "the Accomplished," is the epitome of achievement and self-mastery. He sits comfortably holding a bouquet of flowers, an axe, mango, sugar cane and, in His trunk, a tasty sesame sweet.



8. Ucchhishta Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/08uchhishia.jpg)

Ucchhishta Ganapati is "Lord of Blessed Offerings" and guardian of culture. Of blue complexion and six-armed, He sits with His Shakti, holding a vina, pomegranate, blue lotus flower, japa mala and a sprig of fresh paddy.




9. Vighna Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/09vighna.jpg)

Vighna Ganapati, "Lord of Obstacles," is of brilliant gold hue and bedecked in jewels. His eight arms hold a noose and goad, tusk and modaka, conch and discus, a bouquet of flowers, sugar cane, flower arrow and an axe.




10. Kshipra Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/10kshipra.jpg)

Handsome, red-hued Kshipra Ganapati, "Quick-acting" giver of boons, displays His broken tusk, a noose, goad and a sprig of the kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling) tree. In His uplifted trunk He holds a tiny pot of precious jewels.




 
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on February 07, 2012, 12:56:20 AM
11. Heramba Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/11hearamba.jpg)

Five-faced, white in color, Heramba Ganapati, "Protector of the Weak," rides a big lion. He extends the gestures of protection and blessing while holding a noose, japa beads, axe, hammer, tusk, garland, fruit and modaka.


12. Lakshmi Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/12-Lakshmi.jpg)

Lakshmi Ganapati, pure white giver of success, sits flanked by Wisdom and Achievement. Gesturing varada mudra, He holds a green parrot, a pomegranate, sword, goad, noose, sprig of kalpavriksha and a water vessel.


13. Maha Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/13maha.jpg)

Accompanied by one of His shaktis, "the Great," Maha Ganapati, is red-complexioned and three-eyed. He holds His tusk, a pomegranate, blue lily, sugar-cane bow, discus, noose, lotus, paddy sprig, mace and a pot of gems.


14. Vijaya Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/14vijaya.jpg)

Four-armed, of red hue and riding His resourceful mushika, Vijaya Ganapati is "the Victorious" bestower of success. His insignia are the broken tusk, elephant goad, a noose and a lucious golden mango, His favorite fruit.


15. Nritya Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/15nritya.jpg)

The happy "Dancer," Nritya Ganapati, is four-armed and golden, with rings on His fingers, holding a tusk, goad, noose and modaka sweet. He prances under the kalpavriksha tree, epitomizing exuberant activity and joy.


Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on February 20, 2012, 11:54:25 PM
16. Urdhva Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/16urdhva.jpg)

Seated with one of His shaktis on His left knee, Urdhva Ganapati is "the Elevated" Lord of golden hue. In His six hands He holds a sprig of paddy, a lotus, the sugar cane bow, an arrow, His ivory tusk and a blue water lily.

17. Ekakshara Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/17ekaakshara.jpg)

Ekakshara, of "Single-Syllable" (gam), is three-eyed, of red complexion and attire. Crescent moon on His crown, He sits in lotus pose upon Mushika, offers the boon-giving gesture and holds a pomegranate, noose and goad.

18. Varada Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/18vara.jpg)

Varada Ganapati, "the Boon-Giver with prominent third eye of wisdom, holds a dish of honey, the noose and goad and encloses a pot of jewels in His trunk. His shakti is at His side, and the crescent moon adorns His crown.


19. Tryakshara Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/19tryakshara.jpg)

Tryakshara Ganapati, "the Lord of Three Letters" (A-U-M), is gold in color and has fly whisks in His big floppy ears. He carries the broken tusk, goad, noose and mango and is often seen grasping a sweet modaka in His trunk.

20. Kshipra Prasada Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/20kshipraprasada.jpg)

Kshipra Prasada Ganapati, "the Quick Rewarder," presides from a kusha-grass throne. His big belly symbolizes the manifest universe. He holds a noose, goad, tusk, lotus, pomegranate and a twig of the wish-fulfilling tree.

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on March 11, 2012, 02:21:10 PM


21. Haridra Ganapati


(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2q3qNQaSszg/TjqISCo6i1I/AAAAAAAAACI/TFNDm0vK5cY/s1600/21.png)






Haridra Ganapati, the golden one dressed in bright yellow vestments, sits calmly on a posh, regal throne. Along with His tusk and a modaka, He wields a noose to hold devotees close and a sharp goad to spur them onward.
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: SS91 on March 11, 2012, 02:24:19 PM

22. Ekadanta Ganapati


(http://jaiganesha.co.in/32forms/22.jpg)





Ekadanta, of "Single Tusk," is distinguished by His blue color and sizeable belly. The attributes of this murti are an axe for cutting the bonds of ignorance, prayer beads for japa, a laddu sweet and the broken right tusk.
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on March 13, 2012, 05:25:15 AM
23. Srishti Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/23shrishti.jpg)

Riding on His docile and friendly mouse, Srishti Ganapati is the lord of happy "Manifestation." This active God, of red complexion, holds His noose a goad, a perfect mango, and His tusk, representing selfless sacrifice.

24. Uddanda Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/24uddanda.jpg)

Uddanda Ganapati is the bold "Enforcer of Dharma," the laws of being. His ten hands hold a pot of gems, a blue lily, sugar cane, a mace, lotus flower, sprig of paddy, a pomegranate, noose, garland and His broken tusk.

25. Rinamochana Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/25runamochana.jpg)

Rinamochana Ganapati is humanity's liberator from guilt and bondage. His figure of alabaster skin is apparelled in red silks. He bears a noose and a goad, His milk-white tusk and a favorite fruit, the rose apple.

26. Dhundhi Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/26dhundhi.jpg)

Red-hued Dhundhi Ganapati, "the Sought After," holds a strand of rudraksha beads, His broken tusk, an axe and a small pot of precious gems thought to represent the treasury of awakenings He saves for all ardent devotees.

27. Dvimukha Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/27dwimukha.jpg)

Dvimukha Ganapati, called Janus by the Romans, with two divergent faces, sees in all directions. His blue-green form is dressed in red silk. He wears a bejeweled crown and holds a noose, goad, His tusk and a pot of gems.

28. Trimukha Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/28trimukha.jpg)

Trimukha Ganapati, the contemplative "three-faced" Lord of red hue, sits on a golden lotus, telling His beads, holding a noose, goad and vessel of nectar. He gestures protection with a right hand and blessings with a left.

29. Sinha Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/29simha.jpg)

Sinha Ganapati, white in color, rides a lion and displays another lion in one hand, symbolizing strength and fearlessness. He also holds a kalpavriksha sprig, the vina, a lotus blossom, flower bouquet and a pot of jewels.

30. Yoga Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/30yoga.jpg)

Yoga Ganapati is absorbed in mantra japa, His knees strapped in meditative pose, hands holding a yoga staff, sugar cane stalk, a noose and prayer beads. His color is like the morning sun. Blue garments adorn His form.

31. Durga Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/31durga.jpg)

Durga Ganapati, the "Invincible," waves the flag of victory over darkness. This splendid murti is of deep gold hue, dressed in red, holding a bow and arrow, noose and goad, prayer beads, broken tusk and a rose apple.


32. Sankatahara Ganapati

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/32forms/32sankatahara.jpg)

Sankatahara Ganapati, "the Dispeller of Sorrow," is of sunlike hue, dressed in blue, and seated on a red lotus flower. He holds a bowl of pudding, a goad and a noose while gesturing the boon-granting varada mudra

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on April 24, 2012, 03:05:17 AM
"Ganesha and Parvati !"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/story/images/ganesh_parvati.jpg)

One-day child Ganesha, diverted himself intormenting a cat, pulling her tail and rolling her up and down.

After few minutes he left the cat and went away. He never thought as to what he had done to the cat. He arrived at mount Kailash to meet his mother Parvati.

He found her suffering badly with wounds and dust. He then asked her about what had happened and she replied that he was only responsible of this situation.

Indeed she was the cat that was tormented by Ganesha.This story teaches us that all the living beings are of divine importance.

If we injure any living being we injure God himself. Ganesha learned a lesson and we must also learn.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on May 01, 2012, 01:55:44 AM
"Why prayers are first offered to Lord Sri Ganesh"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/article/images/bigthumb/11111111111_5_3_2011_04_50_57.jpg)

Sri Ganesh is the most revered of Hindu gods. Before any special ceremony or auspicious occasion prayers are first offered to Sri Ganesh.

He is Vighanharta and master of Riddhi-Siddhi. This simply means that he removes all obstacles confronting devotees. A prayer, an offering or penance made for him ensures success. It brings wealth and prosperity.

He is easily pleased. Before any ceremony or special occasion all one needs to do is chant ‘Sri Ganeshaya Namah’.

Sri Ganesh is the God of learning and knowledge. Through devotion to Him one learns to be responsible, to differentiate between good and bad and develop farsightedness. He teaches discipline. It is for this reason that offerings are first made to Sri Ganesh before a ceremony or auspicious occasion.

In Shivpuran, a story narrates that once all the gods went to Lord Shankar to inquire as to who should be the chief amongst them. In response, Lord Shankar proposed that whoever went around the world thrice and returned to Mount Kailash first would be the most revered of all and declared as the foremost amongst gods.

Sri Ganesh’s mode of transport was a mouse (Musak). Surely it was too slow to undertake the journey. Using his ingenuity, Sri Ganesh went around his father Lord Shankar and mother Devi Paravati thrice. With folded hands, he then stood humbly before them. His silence and humility indicated that he had completed his mission. Delighted at His son’s ingenuity, Lord Shankar smilingly told him that none could be as clever and crafty as he was. By going around his parents thrice he had achieved more than he could by going around the world three times.

Pleased, Lord Shankar blessed Sri Ganesha and declared that whoever offered prayers to him before a ceremony or an auspicious occasion would never face obstacles. Since then all mankind has been offering prayers to Sri Ganesha before an auspicious occasion.


OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on May 08, 2012, 04:42:49 AM
"What does a snake around Ganesha stomach represent"

(http://masalacook.typepad.com/.a/6a01053695fa9d970b0120a6c8f475970b-800wi)

Ganesh Chaturthi or Ganesha's Birthday comes on the 4th day of Bhadarva Shukla-Paksh of Hindu calendar in August or September. Milk is offered to idols of Lord Ganesh at home and at temples, and worshippers visit Ganesh temples for Ganesh Puja. Ganesha's vehicle is the Mooshak. Lord Ganesh is very fond of modak. On one of His birthday's Mata Parvati, cooked for him twenty-one types of delicious food and a lot of of modak. Ganesha ate so much that even his big belly could not contain it. Then he set out moving on his mouse at night. Suddenly the mouse stumbled as it had seen a snake and became frightened with the result of that Ganesha fell down.

His stomach burst open and all the sweet puddings came out. But Ganeshji stuffed them back into his stomach and, caught hold of the snake and tied it around his belly. Seeing all this, the moon in the sky had a hearty laugh. This unseemly behavior of the moon annoyed him immensely and so he pulled out one of his tusks and hurled it against the moon, and cursed that no one should look at the moon on the Ganesh Chaturthi day. If anyone does, he will surely earn a bad name.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!



Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on May 15, 2012, 03:46:37 AM
"How Lord Ganesha was born"

(http://theemerald.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/12.jpg?w=500&h=489)

Once upon a time Mother Parvati wished to take a bath. She created a boy from the dirt of her body and asked him to stand guard outside while she cleansed herself. Meanwhile, Lord Shiva returned home. When he tried to enter the house, the boy prevented him from doing so. In anger, Shiva cut off the boy's head. When Parvati saw this, she burst into tears. In order to console her, Shiva sent out his troops (gaNa) to fetch the head of anyone found sleeping with his head pointing to the north. They found an elephant sleeping thus and brought back its head. Shiva then attached the elephant's head to the body of the boy and revived him. He named the boy Ganapati, which means commander of his troops. He granted him a boon that everyone would worship him (Ganesha) before beginning any work.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on June 22, 2012, 01:10:21 AM
"Vallinayaki"

(http://www.crystalinks.com/ganesha1.gif)

Legend has it that the ghat region of Tamil Nadu was ruled by Nambirajan, the king of the Kuravas or the hill tribes. Nambirajan worshipped Shiva, praying for a daughter. His prayers were answered and it was revealed to him that he would discover a baby in the nearby woods and that she would be his daughter.

Accordingly the Kurava king discovered ‘Vallinayaki’ in the woods and brought her up as his own. Valli grew up to be a beautiful maiden and Subramanya - son of Shiva and Parvati sought her hand in marriage. Their courtship is full of many interesting stories that form the basis of many a folk tale and classical performing arts in Tamil Nadu.

Murugan assumed the form of an old bangle seller, and sold bangles to Valli, in return for a local delicacy of honey soaked corn flour. A conversation ensued between the two, which was interrupted by the arrival of Valli's brothers, a valiant lot who were highly possessive and protective of their sister. Flustered by their sudden appearance, and unwilling to indulge in battle, Murugan (Skanda) changed himself into a Vengai maram (a stump of which is still seen in the Temple at Velimalai in Southern Tamil Nadu).

Skanda appeared again, in the guise of an old tribal king and sought her hand in marriage. The brothers materialized again, and Skanda transformed himself into an old ascetic from the Himalayas, and they left the spot.

Upset by the ongoing hindrance, Skanda sought the help of his brother Vinayaka - the remover of obstacles, who appeared on the spot as a wild elephant. A scared Valli embraced Skanda and promised to offer him anything in return for protection from the wild beast. Skanda sought her hand in marriage, and Valli consented gladly, realizing that her suitor was none other than Murugan, whom she and her tribe held in great regard.

Valli married Murugan and the marriage was celebrated with great pomp and splendor by Nambirajan, the king of kuravas.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on July 03, 2012, 01:46:53 AM
"Flowers and Leaves used in Ganesh Puja "

(http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/c0.0.254.254/p403x403/540559_10150643486384527_323113527_n.jpg)

Each deity in Hinduism has its own favorite flowers and leaves and they are used by Hindus during worship and while performing pujas on festivals. All festivals and rituals in Hindu religion begin with Ganesh Pooja. Red colored flowers are the favorite of Lord Ganesha.

Here is a list of flowers and leaves that are offered while praying to Lord Ganesha:

Durva Grass is an important offering to Ganesh. Especially in South India, you will find vendors selling garlands of Durva outside Ganesh Temples. It is known as arugam pul in Tamil, Dhub, Durva and Haritali in Hindi (North India). Bermuda or Bahama Grass is the English name.

Another important flower offered is the Milkweed flower. It is known as Arka in Hindi and Eruku or Erukkum Poo in South India. Jilledi is the name used in Eastern India.

Pomegranate leaves and flowers are also offered in many places.

Another important flower and leaf offered is the Sanku Pushpam or Conch flower.

Leaves and flowers of Screw Pine are also offered. It is known as Ketaki or Kedgi in Hindi and Kaita in South India.

There are also other local flowers and leaves that are used like the Naga leaves.

Tulsi leaves and flowers are not generally used in Ganesh Puja. But it is used during Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Puja.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on July 10, 2012, 03:07:50 AM
Why is a Hibiscus flower offered to Lord Ganesha?


(http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/c0.0.345.345/p403x403/418566_10150549391659527_10029825_n.jpg)

Normally we have a concept that Ganesha is to be offered Red Hibiscus which he likes. But is it really so? A flower has a particular color and a special fragrance. On a subtle level the color and fragrance particles present in the flower have a capacity to attract the principles of a specific deity ( Ganesha ) which benefits the worshiper. That is the principle behind offering specific flowers to a deity and not because they like it. If the worshiper has more spiritual emotion for these flowers then the frequencies of deities get more activated through the medium of these flowers and work for the worshiper directly.

There are subtle frequencies of deities active in the atmosphere. These frequencies are attracted towards certain flowers. These frequencies are then emitted back into atmosphere which is known as ‘pavitrak’.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on August 07, 2012, 04:24:03 AM
Ganesha Idol Made FrOM Coconut Shell

(http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/308963_10151006530929527_612685564_n.jpg)

(http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/552465_10151006531159527_1616570807_n.jpg)

(http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/533211_10151006531419527_481864215_n.jpg)

(http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/557367_10151006531594527_271715689_n.jpg)

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on August 14, 2012, 01:56:32 AM
Ganesh and Lord Vishnu

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9vPNlqoYUtY/SI6_1_zWOHI/AAAAAAAAAsA/L2VepOhkaG4/s400/Ganesh+Picture+4.jpg)

One day, Vishnu found out that his Valamburi Shankha had disappeared. He felt himself very annoyed. After some time, he heard the typical sound of a conch far away and recognized immediately that it was his own instrument. The sound came from the Mount Kailash.
He meditated on Lord Shiva who came in front of him and declared that if he wanted to get his conch back, he had first to address a invocation to god Valamburi Ganesh (a Ganesh form with a right-turned trunk).
Thus, Vishnu performed the puja and Ganesh sent back the conch to his owner who was very happy to recover it.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Chaturthi of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on September 19, 2012, 12:14:39 AM
"Importance of Chaturthi"

(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/photos/Photos/8/Chaturthi/1.jpg)

Lord Vishnu's Ekadashi, Lord Shivashankar's Shivratri, like this Shri Ganesha's Chaturthi is observed by his devotees. This Chaturthi is very dear to Shri Ganesh.

Ganapati Atharvashirsha describes this Chaturthi as 'Chaturthyamanshnan Japati'. Chaturthi means fourth stage.

Ganapati is beyond three stages of human body i.e. awakened stage, dreaming stage & a middle stage between these two stages. When Ganesh is in his Turia means fourth stage, one can have his darshan.

As such Chaturthi has special importance.

Sankashti Chaturthi
This vow is done by devotees on fourth day of second fortnight of every month. On this day devotees fast for whole day & break their fast after having darshan of Lord moon & worshipping Lord Ganesha.

This vow is observed strictly by devotees to get rid of problems in there life.

On this day in the evening after having bath first, worship Lord Ganesh, offer 21 Durvas, do Aarti, show Naivedyam & pray for fulfilling your desires. Then have Lord moon's darshan, offer him Naivedyam, give meal to Brahman & break your fast.In this way if vow is observed all your desires are fulfilled.

Vinayaki Charturthi
Fourth day in the first fortnight of every month is called as Vinayaki Chaturthi. This vow is to be observed for full day.

Angariki Charturthi
If Sankashti Chaturthi comes on Tuesday, it is called Angarika. THe vow is completed on the same day. Devotees have their meal in the night after having darshan of lord moon.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!


Title: Stories of Lord Ganesha (To be Continued by our Dear SS91 onwards......)
Post by: PiyaSoni on September 19, 2012, 04:54:21 AM
To be Continued by our Dear SS91 onwards......

So here's the link :

http://forum.spiritualindia.org/lord-ganesha-the-remover-of-obstacles-t18119.0.html;msg417131;boardseen#new

SaiRam!!

Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on November 27, 2012, 12:48:48 AM
(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/ganesh_chalisa.jpg)


(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/photos/Photos/23/JAY_GANESH/0.gif)

Jai Ganesh Girija Suvan
Mangal Mul Sujan
Kahat Ayodhya Das Tum Dev Abhaya Varadan


Glory to Lord Ganesh, the Divine Son of Goddess Girija,
the cause of all auspiciousness and intelligence.
Ayodha Dass humbly requests that every one be blessed
with the boon of being fearless.

Jai Girija Pati Dinadayala
Sada Karat Santan Pratipala
Bhala Chandrama Sohat Nike Kanan Kundal Nagaphani Ke


O Glorious Lord, consort of Parvati You are most
merciful. You always bless the poor and pious
devotees. Your beautiful form is adorned with the
moon on Your forehead and on your ears are
earrings of snakes' hood.

Anga Gaur Shira Ganga Bahaye
Mundamala Tan Chhara Lagaye
Vastra Khala Baghambar Sohain Chhavi Ko Dekha Naga Muni Mohain


The holy Ganges flows from your matted hair. The saints
and sages are attracted by Your splendid appearance.
Around Your neck is a garland of skulls.
White ash beautifies Your Divine form and clothing of lion's
skin adorns Your body.

Maina Matu Ki Havai Dulari
Vama Anga Sohat Chhavi Nyari
Kara Trishul Sohat Chhavi Bhari Karat Sada Shatrun Chhayakari


O Lord, the beloved daughter of Maina on Your left adds to Your splendid appearance. O Wearer of the lion's skin, the trishul in Your hand destroys all enemies.

Nandi Ganesh Sohain Tahan Kaise
Sagar Madhya Kamal Hain Jaise
Kartik Shyam Aur Ganara-U Ya Chhavi
Ko Kahi Jata Na Ka-U


Nandi and Shri Ganesh along with Lord Shiva
appear as beautiful as two lotuses in the middle
of an ocean. Poets and philosophers cannot
describe the wonderful appearance of Lord Kartikeya
and the dark complexioned Ganas.

Devan Jabahi Jaya Pukara
Tabahi Dukha Prabhu Apa Nivara
Kiya Upadrav Tarak Bhari Devan Sab Mili Tumahi Juhari


O Lord, whenever the Deities humbly sought Your
assistance, You kindly and graciously uprooted all their problems. You blessed the Deities with Your
generous help when the demon Tarak outraged them
and You destroyed him.

Turata Shadanana Apa Pathayau
Lava-Ni-Mesh Mahan Mari Girayau
Apa Jalandhara Asura Sanhara Suyash Tumhara Vidit Sansara


O Lord, You sent Shadanan without delay and
thus destroyed the evil ones Lava and Nimesh.
You also destroyed the demon Jalandhara. Your
renown is known throughout the world.

Tripurasur Sana Yudha Macha-I
Sabhi Kripakar Lina Bacha-I
Kiya Tapahin Bhagiratha Bhari Purva
Pratigya Tasu Purari


O Lord, Purari, You saved all Deities and mankind
by defeating and destroying the demons Tripurasura.
You blessed Your devotee Bhagirath and he was
able to accomplish his vow after rigorous penance.

Danin Mahan Tum Sama Kou Nahin
Sevak Astuti Karat Sadahin
Veda Nam Mahima Tab Ga-I Akatha Anandi
Bhed Nahin Pa-I


O Gracious One, devotees always sing Your glory.
Even the Vedas are unable to describe Your
greatness.
No one is as generous as You.

Pragate Udadhi Mantan Men Jvala
Jarat Sura-Sur Bhaye Vihala
Kinha Daya Tahan Kari Sara-I Nilakantha Tab Nam Kaha-I


Lord, when the ocean was churned and
the deadly poison emerged, out of Your deep
compassion for all, You drank the poison and
saved the world from destruction.
Your throat became blue, thus You are known as Nilakantha.

Pujan Ramchandra Jab Kinha Jiti Ke Lanka Vibhishan Dinhi
Sahas Kamal Men Ho Rahe Dhari Kinha
Pariksha Tabahin Purari


When Lord Rama worshipped You, He became victorious over the king of demons, Ravan. When Lord Rama wished to worship Thee with one thousand lotus flowers, the Divine Mother, to test the devotion of Shri Ram, hid all the flowers at Your request.

Ek Kamal Prabhu Rakheu Joi Kushal-Nain Pujan Chaha Soi
Kathin Bhakti Dekhi Prabhu Shankar Bhaye Prasanna
Diye-Ichchhit Var


O Lord, You kept on looking at Shri Ram, who
wished to offer His lotus-like eyes to worship Thee.
When You observed such intense devotion,
You were delighted and blessed Him. You granted His heart's desire.

Jai Jai Jai Anant Avinashi
Karat Kripa Sabake Ghat Vasi
Dushta Sakal Nit Mohin Satavai
Bhramat Rahe Mohin Chain Na Avai


Glory be unto You O Gracious, Infinite, Immortal, All-pervading Lord. Evil thoughts torture me and I keep on traveling aimlessly in this world of mundane existence.
No relief seems to be coming my way.

Trahi-Trahi Main Nath Pukaro
Yahi Avasar Mohi Ana Ubaro
Lai Trishul Shatrun Ko Maro
Sankat Se Mohin Ana Ubaro


O Lord! I beseech Your help and see your divine blessing at this very moment. Save and protect me.
Destroy my enemies with Your Trishul. Release me from the torture of evil thoughts.

Mata Pita Bhrata Sab Hoi
Sankat Men Puchhat Nahin Koi
Svami Ek Hai Asha Tumhari
Ava Harahu Aba Sankat Bhari


O Lord, when I am in distress, neither my parents, brothers, sisters nor loved ones can relieve my suffering. I depend only on You. You are my hope. Eliminate the cause of this tremendous torture and bless me with Your compassion.

Dhan Nirdhan Ko Deta Sadahin
Jo Koi Janche So Phal Pahin
Astuti Kehi Vidhi Karai Tumhari
Kshamahu Nath Aba Chuka Hamari


O Lord, You bless the down-trodden with prosperity
and grant wisdom to the ignorant. Lord, due to my limited knowledge, I omitted to worship Thee. Please forgive
me and shower Your grace upon me.

Shankar Ho Sankat Ke Nishan
Vighna Vinashan Mangal Karan
Yogi Yati Muni Dhyan Lagavan
Sharad Narad Shisha Navavain


O Lord Sankar, You are the destroyer of all miseries. You remove the cause of all obstacles
and grant Your devotees eternal bliss. The saints and sages meditate upon Thy most beautiful form. Even celestial beings like Sharad and Narad bow in reverence to You.

Namo Namo Jai Namah Shivaya
Sura Brahmadik Par Na Paya
Jo Yah Patha Karai Man Lai
Tapar Hota Hai Shambhu Saha-I


O Lord, prostrations to You. Even Brahma is unable
to describe Thy greatness. Whosoever recites these verses with faith and devotion receives Your infinite blessings.

Riniyan Jo Koi Ho Adhikari Patha Karai So Pavan Hari
Putra-hin Ichchha Kar Koi Nischaya Shiva Prasad Tehin Hoi


Devotees who chant these verses with intense
love become prosperous by the grace of Lord Shiva. Even the childless wishing to have children, have their desires fulfilled after partaking of Shiva-prasad with faith and devotion.

Pandit Trayodashi Ko Lavai Dhyan-Purvak Homa Karavai
Trayodashi Vrat Kare Hamesha Tan Nahin Take Rahe Kalesha


On Trayodashi (13th day of the dark and bright fortnights) one should invite a pandit and devotedly make offerings to Lord Shiva. Those who fast and pray to Lord Shiva on Trayodashi are always healthy and prosperous.

Dhupa Dipa Naivedya Charhavai
Anta Vasa Shivapur Men Pavai
Kahai Ayodhya Asha Tumhari
Jani Sakal Dukha Harahu Hamari


Whosoever offers incense, prasad and performs aarti to Lord Shiva, with love and devotion, enjoys material happiness and spiritual bliss in this world and hereafter ascends to the abode of Lord Shiva. The poet prays that Lord Shiva removed the suffering of all and grants them eternal bliss.

Nitya Nema kari Pratahi   Patha karau Chalis
Tum Meri Man Kamana  Purna Karahu Jagadish


O Universal Lord, every morning as a rule I recite this Chalisa with devotion. Please bless me so that I may be able to accomplish my material and spiritual desires.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on January 08, 2013, 01:03:49 AM
(http://www.jaishreeganesha.com/images/Atharvashirsha_title.jpg)

(http://2.imimg.com/data2/NW/IW/MY-865064/lord-ganesha-250x250.jpg)

Om Namste Ganpataye
Tvameva Pratyaksham Tatvamasi
Tvamev Kevalam Kartasi
Tvamev Kevalam Dhartasi
Tvamev Kevlam Hartasi
Tvamev Sarvam Khalvidam Bramhasi
Tvam Sakshadatmasi Nityam || 1 ||


O Lord Ganesha
I Pay my deep homage to you, the Lord of the Deva-Gana
You are the first facet of the Bramha-Tatva to arise
You have alone created this Entire universe
You alone can maintain this universe
You are indeed the all conquering supreme Lord
Indeed you are the "ATMA" || 1 ||

Rritam Vachmi
Satyam Vachmi || 2 ||


Speak noble fact
Speak complete Truth || 2 ||

Ava tvam Mam
Ava Vaktaram
Ava Shrotaram
Ava Dataram
Ava Dhataram
Avanuchanamv Shishyam
Ava Paschatat
Ava Purastat
Avo Uttaratat
Ava Dakshinatat
Ava chordhvatat
Ava Dharatat
Sarvatomam Pahi Pahi Samantat || 3 ||


Protect me
Protect the one who Describes you
Protect all who hear about your characteristics
Protect me & the disciples who are under Tutelage
Protect me from the obstacles (which arise during Rituals)
From the east (Similarly)
Protect me from the West,
From the North
From the South
Protect me from above & below
Protect me from all directions || 3 ||

Tvam Vangmayastvam Chinmaya
Tvam Anandmayastvam Bramhamaya
Tvam Sachitananda Dvitiyosi
Tvam Pratyaksham Bramhasi
Tvam Jnanmayo Vijnanamayo Asi || 4 ||


You are the constituent of speech
You are Joy & Immortal Consciousness
You are Truth, Mind & Bliss... one without a
You are none other than divinity
You are of Gross & Subtle types || 4 ||

Sarvam Jagadidam Tatvo Jayate
Sarvam Jagadidam Tvat Sti Shastati
Sarvam Jagadidam Tvay Layamesyati
Sarvam Jagadidam Tvayi Pratyeti
Tvam Bhumi Rapo Nalo Nilo Nabha
Tvam Chatvarim Vak Padaini || 5 ||


All the Universes manifest due to you
All the Universes are sustained by you
All the Universes get destroyed in you
All the Universes get merged in you
You alone are Earth. Water, Fire, Air & Either
You are the 4 types of speech & the root source of sound || 5 ||

Tvam Guna Traya Atitaha
Tvam Deha Treya Atitaha
Tvam Kala Treya Atitaha
Tvam Avastreya Atitaha
Tvam Muladhar Stiti Yosi Nityam
Tvam Shakti Treya Atmakaha
Tvam Yogino Dhayayanti Nityam
Tvam Bramhastvan, Vishnustvam, Rudrastvam,
Indrastvam Agnistvam, Vayustvam, Suryastvam,
Chndramastvam, Bramha Bhur Bhuva Svorom || 6 ||


You are beyond the 3 'GUNAS',
(Satva; Pure, Rajas: Activating & Tamas: Dull)
You are beyond the 3 Bodies; (Gross, Subtle & Casual)
You are beyond Past, & Future (3 State of Time)
You are beyond 3 states of being; (Awake, dream & Deep Sleep)
You always in the "MULADHARA" Chakra
You are the trinity of Power;
(Creative Maintaining & Destructive Powers)
Sages always Meditate on you
You are the creator. Sustainer, Destroyer,
The Lord of 3 worlds, Fire, Air, Sun, Moon,
You are all inclusive & all Pervading || 6 ||

Ganadim Purvamuccharaya Varnadim Tada Nantaram
Anusvara Paratarah
Ardhendu Lasitam
Taren Hridam
Etatva Manu Svarupam
Gakarah Purva Rupam
Akaro Madhyam Rupam
Anu Svaraschantya Rupam
Bindu Ruta Rupam
Nadah Sandhanam
Sagm Hitaa Sandihi
Sesha Ganeshvidhya
Ganal Rishi; Nichrud Gayatri chandah
Ganpatir devata
Om 'GUNG' Ganpataye Namah || 7 ||


After Describing the Characteristics & Cosmic Attributes Of Lord Ganesha, Atharvan Rishi Gives us the Sacred "GANESH VIDYA"
i.e. the Mantra which Reveals the Sacred Form of Lord Ganesh.
The Letter "GA" is to be enunciated, following by "NA" This one word Mantra is then Potentiated with the "PRANAVA" "OM".
This is Sacred Mantra.
(In order to make it Simpler, Atharvan Rishi Present the above easier FASHION, Remember that Knowledge was transmitted orally in those days.)
"GA" is the first part, "Na" is the middle &
end "UM" formed by the bindu is conjoined
with the foregoing & all of them form the Sacred word.
This Mantra if pronounced properly, has the power of revaling The Divine Lord Ganesh, The sage who receives the Mantra is Ganaka & the Metre is "NICHRAT GAYATRI" The Diety is Ganapati. Om 'GANG' Ganapati My salutation to you || 7 ||
Saying Thus, The Devotees should bow to the Lord.

Ek Dantaya Vid Mahe vakra Tundaya Dhimahi
Tanno danti Prachodayat || 8 ||


Mediate on the single Tusked Lord, with bent Trunk
May He Grant Knowledge & Inspire me || 8 ||

Ek Dantam Chatur Hastam Pashmam Kusha Dharinam
Radamch Vardam Hastair Bhi Bhranum Mushaka Dhvajam
Raktam Lambodaram Shoorpakarnkam Rakta Vasasamam
Raktam Gandhanu Liptangam Rakta Pushpaihi saupujitam
Bhaktanu Kampinam Devam Jagat Karnam Achutam
Avir Bhutam Cha Shrasta Yadao, Prakruthe Purushat Param
Evam Dhayayati Yo Nityam, Sa Yogi Yoginam Varah || 9 ||


The "SAGUNA" Form of Lord Ganesha is presented in the above Shloka I salute the Lord with 1 tusk (Right side) Who has 4 hands;
Upper Right carrying binding rope; Upper left hoalding goad; lower left carrying Broken tusk & the lower right blesses us, the mouse on his banner is also his vehicle.
He is blood red in colour; Pot-Bellied; He has elephant ears & wears red clothes
He is smeared with red sandalwood & decorated with red flowers
He is eternally blessings his devotees & was existing before Cosmos
He is beyond "PRAKRITI" & "PURUSHA" & is ever creating universes
One who meditates on him constantly, is a Supreme Yogi || 9 ||
(This is the Ganesh "Gayatri", Which is Self Sufficient)

Namo Vrat Pataye, Namo Ganapataye
Namo Pramatha patye,
Namste Stu Lambodaraya Ekdantaya,
Vighna Nashine Shiv Sutaya,
Sri Varad Murtiye Namo Namah || 10 ||


Salutations to you Lord of all Deities, Ganas &
all beings (Salutations To) The Post-Bellied
one with 1 Tusk
who destroys all obstacles, son if Shiva
The Divine Lord who grants, Boons (We bow to you)
Taking your name || 10 ||

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on January 28, 2013, 11:19:16 PM
"Emblems and Weapons"


Ganesh hands usually hold objects. These objects symbolize powers or functions of the God. Some of these objects represent weapons that Ganesha used to fight demons and negative forces. (http://theganeshaexperience.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/ganesha-weapons-289x300.jpg)

Traditional scriptures describe Ganesh with four raised arms, a broken tusk, an axe, a closed lotus and a plate of sweets. Other scriptures quote, for instance, a goad (to control an elephant), a snake, and a trident. From time to time, Ganesh holds a fruit in one hand. For example, in Srilankan depictions, he holds a mango, a lime, or a jambose fruit.

The axe (parashu) is a very common emblem of Ganesh. Most times, he holds it in the upper right hand. The axe originally comes from Shiva (one among the three Lords of Hindu community i.e. Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva) and is vested in the Shaiva deities (except for Parashurâma, a Vishnu avatar, who receives it from Shiva). The axe symbolizes the destruction of desires and attachments, and all their results like troubles and sorrows.

As the “Lord of Obstacles”, Ganesh holds a lasso or a noose (pasha), in order to catch delusions (moha), which are obstacles to Truth seekers. The noose also means eagerness (raga), soul slavery, and hearing. Like a knot, eagerness binds us. This noose permits the spiritual seeker to lift himself up, beyond his human limitations, and connect to the everlasting bliss of his own self. This noose is sometimes shown like a tightly coiled snake.

His elephant goad or hook (ankusha) is used to conduct elephants and is the symbol of his sovereignty over the world. This goad also symbolizes anger (krodha). Anger injures us like a hook. Anger also represents touch and, surprisingly, the higher knowledge which allows human beings to free themselves from ermits to set oneself free from furor.

The plate of sweet (modaka) is the most famous and most ubiquitous among Ganesh attributes (at least in India). Held by the lower left hand, modakas are like cakes. The trunk of Ganesh touches this sweet because it is said that Ganesh is fond of it. The modaka is also the joyful reward of the Truth seeker. Offerings of modaka represent the germs of all the universes kept within the huge belly of Ganesh. According to the Padma-Purâna (a religious textbook of Hindus), the modaka is the symbol of the supreme wisdom (mahâbuddhi).(http://theganeshaexperience.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/ganesha-wallpaper-1-236x300.jpg)

Before the sixth century, but also more recently, during the 9th to 12th century period, one may find, mostly in Orissa and Bengal, representations of Ganesh holding an object which can be identified, without any doubt, as a radish or a turnip (moolakakanda). Some specialists have written that this vegetable could also be a horse-radish and they have supposed that the broken tusk would always be a vegetable.

Some ancient scriptures like the Yâjñavalkyasmrti state that the radish is an appropriate emblem for Ganesh because this vegetable was an offering to Vinâyaka, like sweets are. In ancient times, the Vinâyaka were the names of demons of tantric nature and they were supposed to be very fond of tubers, like radish and also onion and garlic, because they use to live underground.

Various texts have talked about Ganesh holding a radish:

A text from the 5th century, the Bharat Samhita, mentions Ganesh holding a radish
The Yâjñavalkyasmrti (about 300 BC) states that the radish is an adequate offering to Vinâyaka, another form of Ganesh
The Grhyasutra too indicates the radish as an offering
In addition, Ganesh holds a mâlâ : or akshamâlâ made of 50 rudra grains in his lower right hand. It corresponds to the 50 letters of the Sanskrit alphabet and symbolizes sound and hearing.
The above mentioned attributes are the most common ones. Sometimes they may be difficult to identify them on ancient stone statues. For example the axes may look like sticks or big clubs.

Other Ganesh emblems are:

The only just opened lotus, which represents the supreme goal of the human spiritual evolution that Ganesh, offers to his worshippers,
The raising blue lotus (utpala ) associated with the moon,
The pomegranate,
The kamandalu (a pot for sacred water),
The lute (Vina) ,
Some rice ears,
The vajra ,
A book, etc.
Esoteric forms of Ganesh hold also other emblems like the water pot called kalasha, the discus (chakra), the bow (dhanus) and the arrow (bâna).

All these objects are symbols used in Hindu mythology to refer to tools and weapons that represent defeating common vices in human beings. Within these stories lie valuable lessons, applicable to the modern world and the mankind in the 21st century.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!
Title: Re: Stories of Lord Ganesha
Post by: PiyaSoni on May 14, 2013, 12:39:38 AM
"The Female Ganesha"

(http://mylordganesha.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/vinayaki-400x497.jpeg)


The demon, Andhaka, wanted the goddess Parvati to be his wife. He tried to grab her by force so she called out to her husband, Shiva who immediately raised his trident and impaled the Asura.

But the Asura had a magic power; every drop of his blood that touched the ground turned into another Andhaka. The only way to kill him was to ensure not a single drop of his blood touched the ground, while he was impaled on Shiva’s trident.

Parvati knew that every divine being is a mixture of male and female forms, the male form representing mental potential and the female form representing material resources (Shakti). Parvati therefore called out to all the Shaktis. On her request, every divine being released their female energy who could drink the blood of Andhaka before it touched the ground. Soon the battlefield was filled with the shaktis of every god imaginable. Indra’s shakti emerged as Indrani, Vishnu’s shakti emerged as Vaishavi and Brahma’s shakti emerged as Brahmini. These shaktis drank the blood of Andhaka before it touched the ground. Thus was Andhaka destroyed.

Matsya Purana and Vishnu-dharmottara Purana list even Ganapati’s shakti in the list of female warrior goddesses. Her name was Vinayaki also known as Ganeshvari. This form of Ganapati is adored in the Vana-Durga-Upanishad.

Images of the female Ganesha start appearing from 16th century onwards. Some are of the opinion that these images perhaps represent Malini, the elephant-headed companion of Parvati, nursemaid to Ganesha, occasionally referred to in the Puranas.

The idea of a female elephant-headed deity whether it is the Shakti of Ganesha or the handmaid of Parvati is an integral part of Tantrik practices that preferred to see the divine in female, rather than the more dominant male form. This could be because in occult sciences, the female form was seen as the source of all generative powers: while the spark of life came from the male body, life finally was created and nourished by the female body. Or the reason could be more metaphysical. The female form was a code for material resources.

Sages in India have always had this debate between what matters more: the world of thoughts (mental potential) or the world of things (material resources). Those who veered towards intangible thoughts eventually came to be associated with Vedic practices while those who veered towards tangible things eventually came to be associated with Tantrik practices. The former coded their ideas through male forms while the latter coded their ideas through female forms. And so Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, gained popularity in Vedic circles, his female form, Vinayaki, became popular in Tantrik circles.

OM SAI RAM, SRI SAI RAM, JAI JAI SAI RAM!!