32 Forms of Ganapati: Vigna Ganapati - The 9th Form

Introduction to Lord Ganapati

Ganapati or Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is hailed as a remover of obstacles and a harbinger of success and is both loved and venerated. He has an elephant face, but also has a primordial form with a human head. He is celebrated as a hero of strength, as a happy dancer, as a sweet child and many more. It is considered a good custom to seek his blessings while starting any endeavor or undertaking any venture. Ganapati veneration is done from very ancient times, and Ganapatyam, the Ganapati worship, has been established by Saint Adi Shankara, as one of the six fundamental forms of worship in Hindu religion.

Significance of Vigna Ganapati

Vigna Ganapati is regarded as the 9th among the 32 different forms of Ganapati. The Sanskrit word ‘Vigna’ refers to obstructions, impediments, remaining agitated, etc. Vigna Ganapati is hence regarded as the Lord one who can remove such obstacles and difficulties, and clear the way for progress and success. Vigna Ganapati is a rare form, as he holds Shankha (conch) and Chakra (discus), in two of his hands, very similar to Lord Vishnu . The other hands of this eight-armed Lord are having in them, his broken tusk and his favorite sweet Modak (dumpling), noose, elephant goad, battle ax, sugarcane and flower arrow. He is resplendent in golden yellow color, is fully decorated with ornaments all over his body and holds a bunch of flowers at the end of his curved trunk, known as pushpamanjari.

He can be seen as a painting in the Kerala capital Thiruvananthapuram and as a sculpture in some temples in Mysore region, where all the 32 Ganapati forms are on display. Vigna Ganapati can also be worshipped in an idol form, in the Thirukurungudi Temple near Tirunelveli, in southern Tamil Nadu.

Rohini star or Nakshatra is said to be related to Vigna Ganapati.

Blessings of Worshipping Vigna Ganapati

Vigna Ganapati is a benevolent aspect of Lord Ganesha who can mitigate problems and solve difficulties. It is believed that sincere prayers offered to him regularly can remove obstacles and negative influences, and bring for the devotees, success, and prosperity.

Mantra for Vigna Ganapati

The mantra which reads as under in Sanskrit hails him as ‘the obstacle-removing Ganapati’, describes his form and prays for his grace and blessings.

Chanting the Vigna Ganapati mantra with faith, can be an effective means of propitiating this powerful Lord.