Home / Lifestyle / Culture / Photos / IN PHOTOS | Ganeshotsav 2026: What Lord Ganesha’s 8 avatars symbolise about human flaws

IN PHOTOS | Ganeshotsav 2026: What Lord Ganesha’s 8 avatars symbolise about human flaws

Updated On: 07 September, 2026 03:42 PM IST | Poorva Gaikwad

From Vakratunda and Ekadanta to Lambodara and Dhoomravarna, Lord Ganesha is described through eight powerful avatars, each representing the triumph over a different human weakness. Explore the symbolism and significance of these eight divine forms, along with the familiar names of Ganesha invoked in traditional aartis.(PICS/PEXELS)

01
Ganeshotsav 2026: What Lord Ganesha’s 8 avatars symbolise about human flaws. (PICS/PEXELS)
Ganeshotsav 2026: What Lord Ganesha’s 8 avatars symbolise about human flaws. (PICS/PEXELS)
02
Lord Ganesha’s eight avatars With Ganeshotsav almost here, devotees celebrate the festival with full fervour. While there are many aspects to worshipping him, there is a lot more to know including the eight avatars. They symbolise different human flaws, from ego and anger to greed and attachment. Some of these revered forms are also invoked in traditional Ganpati aartis sung during Ganeshotsav
Lord Ganesha’s eight avatars With Ganeshotsav almost here, devotees celebrate the festival with full fervour. While there are many aspects to worshipping him, there is a lot more to know including the eight avatars. They symbolise different human flaws, from ego and anger to greed and attachment. Some of these revered forms are also invoked in traditional Ganpati aartis sung during Ganeshotsav
03
Vakratunda and Ekadanta Among the many, Vakratunda and Ekadanta represent the triumph over two powerful human flaws : jealousy and arrogance. While Vakratunda symbolises overcoming envy, Ekadanta embodies humility and the ability to rise above pride
Vakratunda and Ekadanta Among the many, Vakratunda and Ekadanta represent the triumph over two powerful human flaws : jealousy and arrogance. While Vakratunda symbolises overcoming envy, Ekadanta embodies humility and the ability to rise above pride
04
Mahodara and Gajanana Mahodara and Gajanana reflect the struggle against attachment and greed. Mahodara symbolises balance over delusion and attachment, while Gajanana represents wisdom and generosity in the face of greed
Mahodara and Gajanana Mahodara and Gajanana reflect the struggle against attachment and greed. Mahodara symbolises balance over delusion and attachment, while Gajanana represents wisdom and generosity in the face of greed
05
Lambodara and Vikata Lambodara and Vikata symbolise the need to overcome anger and uncontrolled desire. Lambodara represents patience and inner peace, while Vikata reflects restraint and control over one's passions
Lambodara and Vikata Lambodara and Vikata symbolise the need to overcome anger and uncontrolled desire. Lambodara represents patience and inner peace, while Vikata reflects restraint and control over one's passions
06
Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna represent the journey beyond attachment and ego. Vighnaraja symbolises perseverance in overcoming obstacles, while Dhoomravarna reflects the need to let go of ego and false identity
Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna represent the journey beyond attachment and ego. Vighnaraja symbolises perseverance in overcoming obstacles, while Dhoomravarna reflects the need to let go of ego and false identity

Recommended Photos

Next Gallery

Photo of Day

A clear view

A clear view

An early bird perches on the Lady of Progress statue atop Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus as the monsoon covers come off. Pic/Ashish Raje