Ganesha (/ne/; Sanskrit: , Ga ea;

listen (helpinfo)), also known

as Ganapati and Vinayaka, is one of the best-known and most worshipped deities in the Hindu
pantheon.[2] His image is found throughout India and Nepal.[3] Hindu sects worship him regardless of
affiliations.[4] Devotion to Ganesha is widely diffused and extends to Jains, Buddhists, and beyond
India.[5]
Although he is known by many attributes, Ganesha's elephant head makes him easy to identify.
[6]

Ganesha is widely revered as the remover of obstacles,[7] the patron of arts and sciences and

the deva of intellect and wisdom.[8] As the god of beginnings, he is honoured at the start of rituals and
ceremonies. Ganesha is also invoked as patron of letters and learning during writing sessions. [9]
[10]

Several texts relate mythological anecdotes associated with his birth and exploits and explain his

distinct iconography.