Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: According to Hindi mythology, every year, Ganesha, the son of Gauri, descends from Kailash to the earth for 10 days to be among his devotees and alleviate their sufferings. These days are celebrated as Ganesh Utsav. On this day, idols of Ganpati are installed in homes. People worship the idols.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesh has 8 avatars; know about all of them here.
Eight specific forms of Ganapati are renowned for their role in overcoming the eight destructive habits - Kaam (lust), Krodh (anger), Mad (intoxication), Lobh (greed), Matsar (envy), Moh (illusion), Ahankar (pride), and Agyan (ignorance).
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1. Vakratunda:
This is a revered avatar of Lord Ganesha, which has been characterised by his curved trunk. This curved trunk of Lord Ganesha in his Vakratunda incarnation symbolises flexibility and the ability to navigate and adapt the obstacles that life provides us with. In this form, Lord Ganesh has an elephant head and embodies strength and wisdom. Vakratunda incarnation represents his role in overcoming all the challeneges with ease and maintaing balance and harmony in life.
2. Ekdanta:
Ekdanta refers to 'one-tusked' which is the prominent feature of Lord Ganesh in this incarnation. The legends say that Lord Ganesha had broken one of his tusks and wrote the eipc Mahabharata. This shows his dedication to duty, selflessness and integrity. Lord Ganesha in his Ekdanta avatar is always depicted in a calm demeanor. Ekdanta symbolises overcoming adversity and maintaining integrity.
3. Mahodara:
Mahodara incarnation of Lord Ganesh symbolises his role as gaurdian and protector of all in the times of need. In this form, Lord Ganesh maintains a benevolent, calm and composed posture. This incarnation is known to guide the devotees through challenges with compassion and keep them safe from any harm. Mahodara is also the symbol of support and stability.
4. Gajanana:
The name 'Gajanana' reflects Ganesha's role as the guardian of knowledge and the remover of obstacles embodying the aspcts of the divine. This incarnation represents the power and compassion of Gnaesha, giving him an elephant like presence with grace. In the Gajanana form, Lord Ganesha is highly expressive and displays the elephant head, symbolising wisdom, power and the ability to know the truth. This incarnation is particularly revered for its profound wisdom and protection.
5. Lambodara:
Lambodara, meaning 'big-bellied', is a significant incarnation of Lord Ganesha and symbolises abundance and the ability to absorb and overcome life's challenges. This form represents his ability to live and cope with all experiences, good and bad with equanimity and grace. His mouth also symbolises his role as the protector of the universe, capable of holding the entire universe within himself. This incarnation of Lord Ganesh shows his concern and willingness to help his followers overcome life's challenges.
6. Vikata:
Vikata means 'unusual'. This incarnation of Lord Ganesha represents the unique and unconventional form of Lord Ganesha and refers to his role as the protector of universe and the destroyer of obstacles. In this incarnation, Ganesha is depicted with a strange appearance. Vikata is a reminder that divine power and wisdom can emerge from the unexpected and negative sources. This form of Lord Ganesha embodies the principle that true power lies in embracing and overcoming the the irregularities and anomalies of life with flexibility and creativity.
7. Vignaraj:
Vignaraj incarnation of Lord Ganesh can be translated to 'King of Obstacles'. In this form, Lord Ganesh is known for removing obstacles and conquering them. He symbolises his authority over challenges and all the difficulties faced in Vignaraj incrnation. Vignaraj embodies the strength and wisdom needed to overcome obstacles and guide his followers. This avatar demonstrates Ganesha's dual nature both as a protector and an overcomer of obstacles.