Revere the Remover of Obstacles Through Lord Ganesha Statues

Lord Ganesha statues are incredibly popular amongst Indians. Among the most beloved of Indian Gods, He is known by a multitude of names – Ganapathi, Vinayaka, Vakrathunda, Pillaiyar or simply, Ganesha. He is revered as the God who is ‘easily pleased’!

This elephant-headed God is known as the Lord of success and the remover of obstacles. It is for this reason that Indians offer prayers to Lord Ganesha with devotion, before taking on a new endeavor or embarking on an auspicious journey. It is for the same reason that Lord Ganesha statues are found almost everywhere in India – at homes, in vehicles and in our offices and factories, even as his presence is celebrated in innumerable temples spread all over Indian cities. His divine form is a gentle reminder for us to stay steadfast in our path, even as we surrender the results to Him. His presence ensures abundant prosperity while his grace blesses us with fulfillment.

Lord Ganesha statues also make incredibly attractive gifts. After all, what better way to wish well-being and success for a friend, than to present him or her with a form of the divine? Today, artists have learnt to capture multiple facets or the beloved Lord’s form and present them in trendy packaging.

The statues themselves are made of various materials. Commonly used during the immensely popular Ganesha festival are plaster-of-paris and clay statues, painted in various hues of eco-friendly colors. The festival itself celebrates the landing of His divine presence on planet Earth, as He compassionately wipes away all obstacles and hardship. At the end of festival, the statues are immersed in water, indicating the return to His divine abode.

Permanent Lord Ganesha statues are more commonly made of metals (gold, silver, brass or bronze), marble, granite, stone (in which His form is carved) and wood. The sizes can range across a tiny six inch miniature, to a larger-than life sized sculpture, typically used in pandals, temples or large offices. A stone Ganesha can also be placed at the front of your house, welcoming visitors even as His presence wards of hurdles. Many Indians cleverly combine His presence with a pleasing garden, signifying nature, peace and prosperity.

Lord Ganesha statues also come in various forms. He is typically captured with four hands (indicating super powers) and in brightly colored turbans. Popular among the figurines are:

• Bhakti Ganesha – this is among the most commonly seen forms. His four hands hold coconut, mango, payasam (a sweet made of jaggery) and banana. This stands for the devotee form of the Lord, and can be used to increase our own devotion and surrender to the Him.
• Shilp Ganesha (musician) – this captures the artistic expression of the Lord, and is often embellished with a dhol (drum). Popular in musical schools, art schools or simply as a divine decorative piece.
• Samriddhi Ganesha, for prosperity – this form is typically adorned with diamonds and precious stones, inviting abundance and wealth into our lives. This statue can be made of gold, silver, marble, bronze or brass, while being encrusted with jewels.

If Ganesha is your beloved God you can buy a small statute for your home as well as your office! In whatever form you chose to treasure His form, His presence remains in everlasting protection and guidance.

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