Ganesh

Ganesh is the symbol of logical solutions and must be interpreted as such. His body is human, while the head is that of an elephant; at the same time, its transport (vahana) is a rat. In this way Ganesh represents a logical solution to problems, or "Destroyer". His consort is Buddhi (a synonym for mind) and he is worshiped alongside Lakshmi (the goddess of abundance) by merchants and businessmen. Reason being the logical solution to problems and prosperity are inseparable. Generally speaking, Ganesh is a beloved and often invoked deity, as he is the God of Good Fortune providing prosperity and fortune.

He is also the Destroyer of material or spiritual order. It is for this reason that your grace is invoked before beginning any task (for example, traveling, taking a test, conducting a business matter, a job interview, conducting a ceremony) with Mantras such as: Aum Shri Ganeshaya Namah (save the name of ganesha), or the like. It is also for this reason that, traditionally, all sessions of bhajan (devotional chanting) begin with an invocation of Ganesh, the Lord of "good beginnings". Throughout India of Hindu culture, Lord Ganesh is the first idol to be placed in any new home or temple.