Author: Dr Madhumita Datta
Publisher: Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture
Year: 2012
Language: English
Pages: 158
ISBN/UPC (if available): 9789381325193
Description
The word ‘Ganapati’ literally means the leader of the ganas. He is in turn associated with Rudra (Siva). He gradually achieved Brahmanical recognition and also obtained the recognition as the son of Siva and Parvati. It seems, therefore, that Ganesa is to be looked upon as a secondary rather than an original deity.
The image of Ganesa has a specialty with serpent hood over his head. A single serpent is used usually as his yajnopavita, here their number is much more. A mouse is associated with him as his vahana.
But here instead there are animals like swan, tortoise and golden fox. Three of the four of his hands uphold one animal or the other. He does not have any weapon known to associate with him. In place of lotus, his base is made of a panel of swans under him.
Among many deities worshipped by the Hindus, Ganapati or Ganesa is the most popular. It is not that he is considered to be superior to the great gods and goddesses but he has a special place in the affection of people and everybody pays homage to him at the commencement of an enterprise.
Contents
Contents
Proem
Publisher’s Note
Acknowledgement
List of Plates
Introduction
Chapter 1
Origin & Development of Ganesa Episodes in Ancient India. Literature, Sculpture, Prominent
Places of Worship, Books that dealt with Ganesa Episodes
Chapter 2
General Study of the Principal Puranas with special Reference to the Gods and Goddesses treated therein
Chapter 3 & 4
Ganesa Episodes as reflected in different Puranas and other branches of Sanskrit Literature
Chapter 5
Ganesa Episodes as treated in Sculpture, Iconography, etc.
Chapter 6
Conclusion : The Cult of Ganesa in Bengal and surrounding places
Appendix 1 Rituals connected with the Worship of Ganesa
Appendix 2 The Vehicle of Ganesa
Appendix 3 Ganesani
Appendix 4 The Transformation of Elephant of Ganesa Bibliography