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32 Forms of Ganapathi: Ekakshara Ganapathi - The 17th Form

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What is the importance of Lord Ganapathi?


What is Ekakshara Ganapathi form and what is its importance?

Lord Ganapathi is believed to be present in as many as 32 different forms and Vara Ganapathi is regarded as the 17th among them. The word ‘Ekam’ or ‘Eka’ stands for the number, ‘one’ and ‘Akshara’ means ‘the letter’. Eka Akshara thus indicates a single syllable and represents the Beejakshara, called ‘Gam’, which is also known as the ‘seed letter’. Ekakshara Ganapathi is thus ‘the Lord of the single-letter’ and symbolizes this sacred, single syllabled, Beejakshara Mantra, ‘Gam’. He also denotes the primordial, universal sound, ‘OM’. Ekakshara Ganapathi sits in the majestic Padmasana posture, the yogic lotus pose, and is generally depicted as riding his favorite mount, Mushika, the mouse. He is red in complexion, also covered with red silk, and has three eyes and a crescent moon in his crown, just like his father Shiva. He also has four hands. While his main left hand shows Varada Mudra, the boon granting posture, he holds a noose, an elephant goad and a pomegranate fruit in his other three hands.

What is the significance of worshipping Ekakshara Ganapathi?

The Ekakshara Ganapathi form of Ganesha is a symbol is said to be one of contemplation. It is hence believed that worshipping this meditative form of the Lord will help the devotees to have control over their minds and also the senses. This form of Ganesha 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 Ganapathi forms are on display. However, this Ganapathi can be worshipped in an idol form, in the ancient temple in Hampi, that lies near Hospet town in the state of Karnataka. Uttiram Star, also known as Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra is said to be related to Ekakshara Ganapathi.

Ekakshara Ganapathi

Chanting the Ekakshara Ganapathi Mantra with faith, can be an effective means of propitiating the powerful Lord.

The Mantra, which reads as under in Sanskrit, calls him as ’ the Ganapati identified with the word OM’, describes his appearance, and prays for his grace and blessings.

  • Raktorakangangkasha Kusumayutah Tundialah Chandramoulih
  • Nethraih Yuktistribhih Vamanakaracharano Beejapundadhanah
  • Hastagra Kalusa Pashankasharada Varado Nagavaktrohi Bhoosho
  • Devaha Padamasano No Havatu Natsuro Bhootayae Vighnarajaha
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