In the culture of Sanatana Dharma, folks offer their prayers first to Vighnaharta, the One Who Removes Obstacles. Ganesha or Ganapati as he is more commonly known.

He has a handful of siblings, the most popular of them is Kartikeya. Also known as Subrahmanya, among other names. Depending on what stories you grew up with. He is either the elder or the younger. Joys of a culture where everyone has their own version of it.

So why is he prayed to first?

The story goes something like this. Narada goes to visit Shiva and Ma Parvati, bringing Gyana Phalam, a fruit that grants divine wisdom.

Both The Scribe Of Vyasa and Muruga wanted the fruit.

So a challenge was set. Whoever could circumnavigate the world thrice wins and gets the fruit.

Skanda boarded his peacock and took off at full speed. The Elephant Headed One looked at his humble mouse and his portly belly. And decided to walk around his parents three times.

When asked why, he says they are his world. And so he won on a technicality. And is awarded the right to be worshipped first before any other deity.

One went off to do the actual work, the other was a lawyer. Some stories have him gracefully accepting defeat. Some have him enraged, leaving to head to South to the Palani Hills.

But anyways. I’ve been to many Mandirs, Ashrams, Pujas, and Yagyas. Very familiar with the lived practice of the One Considered First.

The One Who Removes Your Friction.

It’s kinda ironic. Our Culture speaks highly of Tapas (no not the food). The analogy of pressure creating diamonds or refining a metal is used.

Yet we immediately start by offering prayers to The One Tusked One. Begging to be freed of any struggle. Our elders always push us to pick “safe” routes. Married young to a family they know, the person doesn’t matter. Encouraged to pursue careers where there is always a demand and a defined path to get to. Somehow risk taking enough to cross oceans, but averse enough to do everything in your power to shelter your bubble and never rock a boat.

I hold no love for the Orange Mafia and their traditions, peer pressure from the deceased. So I place him last.

Vighnaraj. The Ruler of Obstacles. Responsible for their creation and destruction.

Life wouldn’t be fun without them.

Om Namah Vighnaraja Namaha