God Ganesha in Copenhagen, Denmark

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Ganapati, also known as Vinayaka or Ganesha, stands out as one of the most revered deities in Hinduism's vast pantheon. His iconic image is found everywhere from India to Sri Lanka and Nepal. Regardless of sectarian affiliations, various Hindu sects worship him with great devotion. Devotion to Ganapati has also spread far beyond Hindu circles, reaching Jains and Buddhists alike. Ganesha's instantly recognizable elephant head makes him easy to spot among other deities. As the remover of obstacles, patron of arts and sciences, and deity of intellect and wisdom, he is widely revered. At the start of rituals and ceremonies, Ganesha is honored as the god of beginnings. He also serves as the patron of letters and learning during writing sessions. Several texts tell mythological stories about his birth and exploits, shedding light on his unique iconography. During the 4th and 5th centuries CE, Ganapati emerged as a distinct deity in the Gupta Period, drawing traits from his Vedic and pre-Vedic precursors. In the 9th century, he was formally included among Smartism's five primary deities. A devoted sect called the Ganapatya arose, believing Ganesha to be the supreme deity. The key scriptures dedicated to Ganesha are the Ganesha Purana, Mudgala Purana, and Ganapati Atharvashirsa.