ganesha (mythology)

In Hindu mythology, Ganesha (or Ganesh) is the elephant-headed god of arts, knowledge, and willpower. He is one of the most well-known Hindi gods and is widely worshipped in several Hindu sects. In most traditions, Ganesha is the son of Shiva and Parvati.

In most traditions, the story of how Ganesha got his elephant head usually revolves around how his father Shiva accidentally beheaded him either by his earth-scorching third eye or his chakram and used an elephant's head as a replacement. Another story says that Shiva found Ganesha too alluring, so he gave him an elephant head and large belly to prevent future trouble.