Ganesha is today the most popular and loved of the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Nothing auspicious takes place without invoking his name.

Was this always so? If not, how did he rise into prominence? These and so many more questions about this god with the elephants head and unusual form have exercised the minds of those interested in Hindu religion and philosophy.

In this book, "Ganesha: The Auspicious…The Beginning ", Smt. Shakunthala Jagannathan and Dr. Nanditha Krishna, mother and daughter, have brought out the relevance and importance of Ganesha from ancient times to the present day.

They have covered historical and archaeological evidence, legends and parables, and Ganesha imagery in India and abroad to make a multi-dimensional study of this deity through the ages. The chapters on Symbolism and Worship of Ganesha explain his symbolic importance and modes of worship.

Copiously illustrated with a number of colour and black-and-white photographs (several of rare antiques) and with attractive line drawings, this comprehensive book covers all aspects of this greatly adored deity. The book would be of equal interest to the layman, the scholar and the devotee and a valuable addition to every home and library.