Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, is one of the most beloved and revered figures in Hinduism. Known as the remover of obstacles, he is often invoked at the beginning of any auspicious venture. This article delves into the significance of 16 of his most sacred names, exploring their meanings, origins, and the spiritual benefits associated with chanting them.
16 Names of Ganesha in Tamil
Tamil, a classical Dravidian language, has a rich tradition of Ganesha worship. The following are 16 prominent names of Ganesha in Tamil, each carrying its own unique symbolism:
- Pillayar: This is one of the most common names for Ganesha in Tamil, meaning “child” or “young one.” It emphasizes his youthful and playful nature.
- Vinayagar: Derived from the Sanskrit word “vinaya,” meaning “humility,” this name highlights Ganesha’s quality of being humble and approachable.
- Ganapati: A direct translation from the Sanskrit name, “Ganapati,” this name signifies Ganesha as the leader of the ganas, or celestial attendants.
- Vighneswara: This name, meaning “remover of obstacles,” is perhaps the most well-known attribute of Ganesha. It underscores his power to clear away impediments and pave the way for success.
- Gajanan: Translating to “elephant-faced,” this name refers to Ganesha’s distinctive appearance, which is often associated with wisdom and strength.
- Vakratunda: Meaning “curved-trunked,” this name describes Ganesha’s unique trunk, which is believed to symbolize his ability to balance opposing forces.
- Lambodara: This name, meaning “large-bellied,” is associated with Ganesha’s insatiable appetite for knowledge and wisdom.
- Dhumaketu: Translating to “smoke-tailed,” this name alludes to Ganesha’s ability to dispel ignorance and darkness.
- Bhalachandra: Meaning “moon-faced,” this name refers to Ganesha’s serene and peaceful demeanor.
- Uchchishtaganapati: This name, meaning “eater of leftovers,” is associated with Ganesha’s ability to accept offerings of any kind, no matter how humble.
- Durmukhishta: Meaning “difficult to deceive,” this name highlights Ganesha’s intelligence and discernment.
- Siddhivinayak: Translating to “giver of success,” this name emphasizes Ganesha’s power to bestow prosperity and accomplishment.
- Buddhivinayak: Meaning “giver of wisdom,” this name underscores Ganesha’s role as the patron of learning and intellect.
- Kshipraprsadini: Translating to “quick to grant boons,” this name emphasizes Ganesha’s swift and compassionate nature.
- Vighnaharta: Another name for “remover of obstacles,” this name reinforces Ganesha’s primary function as a protector and guide.
- Ganesha: This is the most common and universally recognized name for Ganesha, representing his divine essence and universal appeal.
16 Names of Ganesha
- Ganapati: Leader of the ganas
- Vighneswara: Remover of obstacles
- Gajanan: Elephant-faced
- Vakratunda: Curved-trunked
- Lambodara: Large-bellied
- Dhumaketu: Smoke-tailed
- Bhalachandra: Moon-faced
- Uchchishtaganapati: Eater of leftovers
- Durmukhishta: Difficult to deceive
- Siddhivinayak: Giver of success
- Buddhivinayak: Giver of wisdom
- Kshipraprsadini: Quick to grant boons
- Vighnaharta: Remover of obstacles
- Ganesha: Divine essence
- Pillayar: Child
- Vinayagar: Humble
16 Names of Ganesha in Telugu
| Tamil Name | Telugu Name | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pillayar | Bala Vinayak | Child |
| Vinayagar | Vinayaka | Humble |
| Ganapati | Ganapati | Leader of the ganas |
| Vighneswara | Vighneswara | Remover of obstacles |
| Gajanan | Gajanana | Elephant-faced |
| Vakratunda | Vakratunda | Curved-trunked |
| Lambodara | Lambodara | Large-bellied |
| Dhumaketu | Dhumaketu | Smoke-tailed |
| Bhalachandra | Chandramukha | Moon-faced |
| Uchchishtaganapati | Uchchishta Ganapati | Eater of leftovers |
| Durmukhishta | Durmukha | Difficult to deceive |
| Siddhivinayak | Siddhi Vinayaka | Giver of success |
| Buddhivinayak | Buddhi Vinayaka | Giver of wisdom |
| Kshipraprsadini | Kshipra Prasada | Quick to grant boons |
| Vighnaharta | Vighnaharta | Remover of obstacles |
| Ganesha | Ganesha | Divine essence |
16 Names of Ganesha Shloka
A popular shloka (verse) invoking the 16 names of Ganesha is:
Ganapati Bappa Moriya, Mangal Murti RoopaVakratunda Mahakaya, Koti Bheema SampoornaLampata Vighnaharta, Siddhi Budhi DayakaNamas Tvam Deva Deva, Tvam GangadharaNamas Tvam Deva Deva, Tvam Gangadhara
16 Names of Ganesha with Meaning
Ganapati: Leader of the ganas Bappa Moriya: Father of the universe Mangal Murti: Auspicious form Roopa: Appearance Vakratunda: Curved-trunked Mahakaya: Great body Koti Bheema: Equal to a crore of Bhimas (a legendary warrior) Sampoorna: Complete Lampata: Large-bellied Vighnaharta: Remover of obstacles Siddhi Budhi Dayaka: Giver of success and wisdom Namas Tvam Deva Deva: I bow to you, oh divine being Tvam Gangadhara: You who carry the Ganges
16 Names of Lord Ganesha
The 16 names of Ganesha are also commonly referred to as the “16 names of Lord Ganesha,” emphasizing his divine status and supreme power.
16 Names of Lord Ganesha in Telugu
The Telugu equivalents of the 16 names of Ganesha are provided in the table above.
16 Names of Ganesha in Sanskrit
- Ganapati: गणपति
- Vighneswara: विघ्नेश्वर
- Gajanan: गजानन
- Vakratunda: वक्रतुण्ड
- Lambodara: लम्बोदर
- Dhumaketu: धूमकेतु
- Bhalachandra: भालचन्द्र
- Uchchishtaganapati: उच्छिष्टगणपति
- Durmukhishta: दुर्मुखिष्ट
- Siddhivinayak: सिद्धिविनायक
- Buddhivinayak: बुद्धिविनायक
- Kshipraprsadini: क्षिप्रप्रसादिनी
- Vighnaharta: विघ्नहर्ता
- Ganesha: गणेश
- Pillayar: पिल्लेयर
- Vinayagar: विनायगर
Conclusion
The 16 names of Ganesha are more than just labels; they represent different aspects of his divine personality and the spiritual benefits associated with invoking him. By chanting these names, devotees can connect with Ganesha’s energy and experience his blessings of wisdom, success, and protection.
FAQs
- Why are there 16 names of Ganesha?
- The number 16 holds special significance in Hindu mythology, symbolizing completeness and perfection.
- What is the significance of each name?
- Each name highlights a specific attribute or quality of Ganesha, such as his wisdom, power, compassion, or ability to remove obstacles.
- How can chanting these names benefit me?
- Chanting the 16 names of Ganesha is believed to invoke his blessings, bring prosperity, and remove obstacles from one’s path.
- Can anyone chant these names?
- Yes, anyone can chant the 16 names of Ganesha, regardless of their faith or background.
- What is the best time to chant these names?
- The best time to chant the 16 names of Ganesha is during the early morning, but they can be chanted at any time of day.