Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati
Ganesha — Remover of Obstacles and Son of Shiva
Carved into the southern side wall of the west side hall (Ashtamatrika Hall) of the East Wing of Elephanta Caves, this sculptural panel depicts Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati.
Revered as Vignesha, the remover of obstacles, Ganesha is widely worshipped in India before the commencement of rituals and important undertakings. His worship also spread extensively across Southeast Asia.
In this panel, Ganesha is shown seated in a relaxed posture with his large elephant head and pot belly — characteristic features of his iconography. Beside him sits his vahana, the mouse, gently resting its chin on Ganesha’s thigh.
Flying above his head are a Vidyadhara couple along with other celestial beings and attendant figures, adding a divine atmosphere to the composition.
According to Hindu mythology, Ganesha was created by Parvati from the paste or turmeric applied to her body while preparing for a bath. She assigned the boy to guard her chamber. When Shiva returned and was denied entry by the child, he became enraged and severed the boy’s head. Seeing Parvati overcome with grief, Shiva ordered his attendants to bring the head of the first living being they encountered facing north — which happened to be an elephant. Shiva then restored the child to life with the elephant’s head and declared him foremost among the gods.
Opposite this panel, on the northern wall of the hall, is a sculpture of his brother Kartikeya, while the long western wall depicts the Ashtamatrikas (Eight Divine Mothers).
Related Pages
– Badami
– Cave Temples of Badami
– Badami Cave 1, Badami Cave 2, Badami Cave 3, Badami Cave 4
– Durga Temple at Aihole
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