Ganesha – A deity (a god) with an elephant's head that symbolises wisdom and success

(Pronounced gun-ee-shuh)

To remember the meaning of the Hindu term Ganesha, use the following mnemonic:

With a gun he thought he should (Ganesha) have the advantage, but the wisdom of the elephant gave it success.

Also known as Lord Ganesh, Ganapati, Ekadanta, Vinayaka, Pillaiyar and Herambahe, Ganesha is among the most popular deities in Hindu worship.

Believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and the goddess Parvati, Ganesha is depicted as having an elephant's head on a human body.

Widely known as the Remover of Obstacles, Ganesha is often prayed to by people starting a new enterprise. He is also known as the patron god of travel.

In some parts of India, his birthday is celebrated for ten days, a joyous event regarded as a public occasion.

Celebrations may be less grand in other areas, but Ganesha is highly regarded by Hindus worldwide.