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= Iconography and Symbols =

The iconographic form of Gaṇapati, the ‘Lord of All Creation’, is shaped over time through vaidika, paurāṇika, and tāntrika traditions. As Lambodara, his large belly denotes the ability to contain and absorb the experiences of the universe. The mouse, as his vāhana, represents the restless human desires brought under spiritual control. A majority of the sculptures represent him in the four-armed form. Of his three hands, one holds a modaka or laḍḍu (Indian sweets) to denote bliss through the pursuit of knowledge, another holds an aṅkuśa (goad) to guide and direct, a third holds a pāśa (noose) to showcase restraint, and the fourth hand is usually depicted in abhaya mudrā, blessing the devotee. However, sometimes he is depicted with other sacred objects in his hands like a stylus, a jackfruit, a coconut, etc. Usually depicted in lalitāsana or mahārājalīlā with the left leg folded, Gaṇapati is shown seated with royal ease. When he is represented in the standing form, it is in dvibhaṅga (two bends) or tribhaṅga (three bends) form.

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