Ganesha

Certainly, Bhagavan Ganesha, is a prominent figure in our Puranas and is known for his wisdom, intelligence, and playful nature. Here are a few stories that highlight different aspects of Lord Ganesha

The Birth of Ganesha

One of the most well-known stories is about Ganesha's birth. It is said that Goddess Parvati, Ganesha's mother, created him from the sandalwood paste she used for bathing and gave him life. She placed him at the entrance of her chamber to guard it while she bathed. When Lord Shiva, Parvati's husband, returned, Ganesha stopped him from entering. Unaware of Ganesha's identity, Shiva became furious and a battle ensued in which Ganesha lost his human head. Overcome with remorse, Shiva replaced Ganesha's head with that of an elephant, bringing him back to life.

Ganesha and the Moon

Once, Ganesha was enjoying his favorite treat, modakas (sweet dumplings), when a full moon appeared in the sky. He couldn't resist the temptation and ate so many modakas that his belly became full and round. Seeing this, the moon laughed at Ganesha. Enraged by the moon's mockery, Ganesha broke off one of his tusks and hurled it at the moon, cursing it to disappear from the sky. Realizing his mistake, Ganesha later modified the curse, allowing the moon to wax and wane over the lunar month.

Ganesha and Kubera's Pride

In another tale, Lord Kubera, the god of wealth, invited Ganesha for a feast. Ganesha, who loved food, readily accepted the invitation. During the feast, Ganesha consumed vast quantities of food. He then ate everything else in Kubera's palace, including his famed sweet rice pudding. Kubera was shocked and pleaded with Ganesha to spare his treasure. Ganesha agreed, but with the condition that Kubera would be humble in his offerings. This story teaches the importance of humility and the transitory nature of wealth.

Ganesha's Wisdom

Once, there was a race between Ganesha and his brother Kartikeya (also known as Skanda or Murugan). The challenge was to circumnavigate the world three times. Kartikeya immediately set off on his peacock, confident in his victory. Ganesha, however, took a different approach. He circumambulated his parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, explaining that they symbolized the universe to him. Impressed by Ganesha's wisdom, Lord Shiva declared him the winner.

Ganesha and Sage Vyasa

In the epic Mahabharata, it's said that Sage Vyasa sought Ganesha's help in writing down the epic as he recited it. Ganesha agreed on the condition that Vyasa would narrate the story without pause. As Vyasa recited, he composed complex verses that gave Ganesha pause, allowing Vyasa time to catch up. Thus, Vyasa's cleverness and Ganesha's willingness to help resulted in the compilation of the Mahabharata.

These stories highlight the multifaceted nature of Bhagavan Ganesha, portraying him as a deity of wisdom, intelligence, playfulness, and compassion. Each tale carries a moral lesson and showcases Ganesha's significance in our Puranas. He is the lord who helps us overcome obstacles and be successful in gaining right knowledge for life.