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16 Names of Ganesha for Chanting
Have you ever wondered why Lord Ganesha's name is taken before starting anything- be it a new venture, house warming, buying a new car or getting married? This is because he is considered as the 'remover of obstacles'.
It is believed to take Lord Ganesha's blessings to help fulfill your desires without any hindrance or failure. But there are very people out there who are aware about the 16 different names of Lord Ganesha, known as Ganesha Shodasa Nama Stotram which is chanted before starting any auspicious look.
Come, let's dive deep into it.
Ganapati mantra for removal of obstacles
Sumukha schaikadantascha kapilo gajakarnakah |
Lambodarascha vikato vighnarajo ganadhipah |
Dhoomaketur ganadhyakshah phalachandro gajananah |
Vakratunda shoorpakarnah heramba skandapoorvajah |
Shodashaitani namani yah pateth shrnuyadapi ||
Vidyarambhe vivahecha praveshe nirgame tatha |
Samgrame sarvakaryeshu vighnastasya najayate |
Abhipsitartha sidhyartham poojito yassurairapi |
Sarvavighnachchhide tasmai shri ganadhipataye namah ||
The first four lines of these verses include the four names each of Lord Ganesha, making it 16 names in total. The remaining lines consist of the benefits of chanting this Ganpati mantra. Let's understand the meanings of each of these names and what benefits can you expect by chanting it.
16 different names of Lord Ganesha
While the original Sanskrit names resonate with powerful vibrations, their English counterparts help in understanding their significance, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
- Sumukha (Beautiful-faced): Represents Ganpati’s pleasant and approachable face, often the first point of contact in any situation.
- Ekadanta (One possessing a single tusk): Symbolizes uniqueness and the ability to stand out in a crowd, emphasizing how distinct Lord Ganesha is.
- Kapila (Of reddish-brown color): Reflects the grounded nature of Lord Ganesha who is down to earth and stable in his beliefs and actions, as one should be.
- Gajakarnaka (Elephant-eared): Ganesha teaches us to listen more than we talk and that is denoted with his ears which emphasize the need to pay attention to details and is empathetic towards others.
- Lambodara (Possessor of a large stomach or belly): Symbolizes abundance and Lord Ganesha’s capacity to absorb and process a lot of information or experiences.
- Vikata (Ferocious and misshapen): Represents resilience and the ability to face challenges head-on, suggesting a fierce determination.
- Vighnaraja (Lord of obstacles): Symbolizes Ganesha’s problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate through life’s challenges effectively.
- Ganadhipa (Leader of ganas): Denotes leadership qualities and the ability to serve as a guiding light and inspiration to a team or group.
- Dhumaketu (Smoky-flag bearer): Represents guidance and the ability to lead others through uncertain or challenging situations.
- Ganadyaksha (Lord of ganas): Another name emphasizing leadership and the capacity to oversee and manage large groups or projects.
- Phalachandra (Bearing moon-like face): Symbolizes Lord Ganesha’s calm demeanour and a balanced approach, suggesting someone who remains composed and mindful even in stressful situations.
- Gajanana (Elephant-faced or headed): Represents wisdom and intelligence, denoting someone who is respected for their knowledge and insights.
- Vakratunda (Of twisted-tusk): Symbolizes adaptability and the ability to find unconventional solutions to challenges, emphasizing the importance of thinking outside the box.
- Shoorpakarna (Having large fan-shaped ears): Denotes attentiveness and the capacity to gather diverse information from various sources, highlighting the importance of active listening and wisdom.
- Heramba (Protector of the weak): Represents Ganesha’s compassionate behaviour and the ability to support and uplift those in distress, showcasing his role as a guardian and nurturer.
- Skandapoorvaja (Born before Skanda): Symbolizes seniority and experience, suggesting someone who is looked up to for guidance and mentorship.
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Benefits of chanting Ganesha Shodasa Nama Stotram
Mental clarity
The Ganapati Shodasa Nama Stotram is widely known to clear the mind. By understanding the meaning of Ganesha’s 16 different names, you can gain insights that make your mind stress free and relaxed than before.
Deepened spiritual connection
Reciting the Ganapati Strotam connects you to your spiritual roots. Additionally, if you have difficulty speaking or understanding the mantra in Sanskrit, you can go for Ganpati Stotra in English so that the language doesn’t serve as a barrier.
Stress relief and calmness
Chanting the various "Vinayaka Names" has a meditative effect. This rhythmic practice helps alleviate stress, bringing about a sense of calm.
Path to success
When you recite the different Names of Ganesha, it is believed that your obstacles are removed and you seek divine intervention to ensure success in endeavours.
Enhanced focus
The vibrations from the Ganesha Shodasa Nama Stotram are said to sharpen your concentration powers and meditating upon the Shree Ganesh name can enhance mindfulness and keep you motivated.
Emotional balance
Reflecting on "All Names of Lord Ganesha" can provide emotional stability, helping individuals navigate life's ups and downs with grace.
Cultural appreciation
Delving into the 16 names of Lord Ganesha deepens your roots by fostering a feel of pride with respect to your cultural traditions.
Positive vibrations
Regular chanting of Ganpati names fills your surroundings with positive energy, creating an environment conducive to growth and harmony.
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Steps to chant Lord Ganesha names
Preparation: Find a quiet place where you won’t get disturbed for the next few minutes. Sit in a comfortable position, preferably cross-legged, keeping your back straight but not too rigid. Take few deep breaths to settle yourself.
Start reflecting: Before getting started, reflect on the meaning of 16 different names of Lord Ganesha to enhance your connection to the chant.
Understand why you’re doing it: Set a clear intention or sankalpa for your chanting session. Whether it's seeking blessings, clarity, or simply connecting with the divine, having a purpose will enhance the experience.
Pronounce clearly: Start by chanting the Vinayaka names slowly, ensuring you pronounce each name clearly. As you become more comfortable, you can increase the pace, but always prioritize clear pronunciation.
Be mindful: While you’re chanting the names repetitively, be mindful of the vibrations and energies surrounding you. It is preferable to chant the Ganesha Shoda Nama Stotram 108 times as it helps to connect yourself with the divine power.
Visualize: While chanting, visualize the smiling face of Lord Ganesha, radiating a warm, golden light. As you progress through each name, visualize the special attribute associated with that name. For instance, when chanting "Ekadanta," you can focus on his single tusk.
Conclude the session: Once you’re done with chanting, do not get up immediately. Stay in that meditative state for a few minutes and express gratitude to Lord Ganesha for his blessings, absorbing the vibrations and energy.
Practice regularly: The key to getting the maximum benefits of reciting the 16 names of Lord Ganesha is consistency. Be it daily or weekly, be regular with your practice to get the most out of it.
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Best time to practice
You can practice Ganesha Shodasa Nama Stotram whenever you want to. However, to get the best out of it, you should do the chanting in the morning, especially during the Brahma muhurta" (around 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM) as the environment is calm and the mind is fresh.
Chanting on Ganesh Chaturthi and Tuesdays in general helps in removing obstacles and ensuring a smooth flow of activities. Additionally, whenever you’re starting a new venture or beginning something new in life in general, invoking Lord Ganesha's blessings before new endeavours is considered auspicious.
Also read: What is the best time to meditate- Morning, evening, or?
