Ganesha (also spelled Ganesh), also called Ganapati, is the elephant-headed Hindu god of beginnings. He is traditionally worshipped before any major undertaking and is considered the patron of intellectuals, bankers, scribes, and authors. His name means both "Lord of the People" (with Gana referring to the common people) and "Lord of the Ganas" (as Ganesha is the chief of the Ganas, the goblin attendants of Shiva).

Ganesha is depicted as potbellied and is often shown holding a few round Indian sweets, which he is particularly fond of. His vehicle (vahana) is the large Indian bandicoot rat, symbolizing his ability to overcome obstacles and achieve his goals. Just like both a rat and an elephant, Ganesha is revered as a remover of obstacles.