Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: Ganesha's Influence Extends Beyond India—From Thailand's National Emblem to Negative Associations in China

Mysuru, August 30 – As Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, the global significance of Lord Ganesha, one of Hinduism's most revered deities, comes to the forefront. Ganesha's presence and influence extend far beyond India, with various forms of worship and cultural integration across Asia, including in Thailand, China, Japan, and Afghanistan.

Thailand: Ganesha in the National Emblem
In Thailand, Ganesha is worshipped as Phra Phikanet or Phra Phikanesuan, a deity associated with arts, education, and commerce. His image is so revered that it even appears on the national emblem of Thailand, particularly in the Cultural City of Chachoengsao, known as the "Ganesha City." The city is home to three massive Ganesha statues, including a 49-meter-tall statue at the Frank Akat Temple. The deity is also prominently placed outside Bangkok's Central World (formerly World Trade Center), symbolizing his importance in Thai culture.

China: Ganesha's Negative Perception
In contrast to the reverence he receives in Thailand, Ganesha is perceived differently in China. While the oldest known Ganesha statue in Northern China dates back to 531 CE, found in a rock-cut temple in Tun-Huang, the deity is often viewed as a negative force in Chinese culture. This perspective is a stark departure from the positive associations Ganesha holds in other parts of Asia.

Japan: Ganesha as Kangiten
Ganesha reached Japan in the 8th century, where he is known as Kangiten, associated with Japanese Buddhism. Kangiten is depicted in various forms, with the most popular being the dual-bodied, embracing statues known as the Dual Kangiten. In Japan, Ganesha is considered a powerful deity of fortune, worshipped by businesspeople, gamblers, and actors for good luck.

Afghanistan: Ganesha's Historical Presence
In Afghanistan, a statue of Ganesha was discovered near Gardez, close to Kabul, dating back to the 7th-8th centuries CE. This statue, established by a king named Khengal, is considered a unique product of the Indo-Afghan school of art, representing Ganesha's historical and cultural significance in the region.

Tibet: Ganesha in Tibetan Buddhism
In Tibet, Ganesha was introduced in the 11th century by the Indian Buddhist monk Atisha Dipankara. Tibetan Buddhism regards Ganesha as one of its most revered deities, with many Indian Tantric texts about Ganesha being translated into Tibetan. According to Tibetan mythology, Ganesha played a crucial role in establishing the Lamist organization, further cementing his influence in the region.

As Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 approaches, it is clear that Ganesha's impact extends beyond the borders of India, influencing cultures and religious practices across Asia in diverse and profound ways.