Ganesha.
Ganesh is the elephant-headed God in the Hindu tradition who is honored at the beginning of all ceremonies and endeavors. He opens the Way. We offer our love and gratitude to the One who blessed us with inspiration, guidance and protection, and continues to remove all obstacles on our Chai Pilgrimage. I have always loved elephants. Maybe that’s why I instantly connected with Ganesh when I first ‘met’ him. I made this Ganesh (available here) to remind me of his wonderful attributes and immense wisdom.
Ganesh is the inspiration for probably millions of artists. Everywhere we turned, we saw his image. We sighted this Ganesh-in-motion on the back of a rickshaw in Kathmandu.
We passed this Ganesh on a narrow alley in old Kathmandu. He seemed to be glowing.
I colored this ‘chai wallah’ version of Ganesh in my sketchbook.
Our friend Veejay is an artist living in Varanasi. He’s made (literally) thousands and thousands of Ganeshes.
Veejay’s brother, Deepu, carved this Ganesh for us.
And this special “lucky Ganesh penny” sits on my desk — my friend Amanda sent it to me from India.
I love to surround myself with reminders of the Divine, because it does just that — reminds me to REMEMBER. This is something I definitely ‘took’ from my visits to Nepal and India. Here, my days are filled with so much activity–work deadlines, cooking, cleaning, errands, and exercise — that I appreciate the reminder to pause for a moment, breathe, and give thanks. Whether the reminder is an image of Ganesh or Buddha, or even a vase of flowers or a walk in nature, it takes me to the same place within. Peace.
Ganesha has been my favorite as well – I have him all over my house. I love the first picture that you drew. Also, I am curious about the penny – I have never seen it before
25 Oct 2008 at 6:23 am
Interesting…Jesus Christ said “I am the Way…”. So many parallels to be found in Hinduism and Christianity.
Hinduism says Krishna is Lord of lords…Christianity says Jehovah is Lord of lords.
I’ve chosen to follow Jehovah and Jesus, but still find others’ beliefs interesting.
Hindu friends have pointed out to me that Jesus came later. Granted his manifestation in the flesh did–but he is without end and was “at the beginning” when everything seen and unseen was created, as it is written.
Also, I love your artwork. Thank you for sharing your experience…looking forward to more.
25 Oct 2008 at 8:01 am
What an incredible website. Can’t believe I’ve never stumbled upon it before. Well, it’s never too late !
Greetings from MASALA CHAI !
25 Oct 2008 at 6:07 pm
Ganesha is one avataar that has been the favourite among artists – from amazing sculptures to paintings to depiction of the lord in innovative forms. Many people in the country have a very impressive collection of Ganeshas in many different forms. Glad to know that even you were touched by his presence. Loved your sketches. Hope Ganesha continues to bring in good luck for you and Patrick
26 Oct 2008 at 10:18 pm
Oh, my girlfriend Jorja, would just die seeing this post. I will forward to her. She is an avid Ganesha worshipper (you should see her home!) and passionately teaches me about his story and qualities. I’m morph into a child during storytime when I hear these wonderful stories and lessons. Much beauty and truth to learn.
Really love your drawings! One day, once I have a home (we’re on the road now), I would love to buy one of your works for my home. Your style is lovely and warm and playful.
Take care,
Shireena
29 Oct 2008 at 7:49 pm
I JUST LOVE ALL UR POSTS!!!!!!! Yea …….
Thankyou for educating us.
05 Nov 2008 at 3:48 am
Congratulations,I love your blog. Wonderfull photos and pictures.Show us more of your trip!
10 Nov 2008 at 8:27 am