Gajasura – Elephant of the Asuras

Ganesha’s head didn’t come from just any old elephant. Gajasura, an elephant Asura, adored Shiva. His devotion and veneration pleased Shiva so much that he offered to grant Gajasura any wish. Gajasura asked to have Shiva in his stomach. His wish was fulfilled. There are two interpretations of this wish:

• Gajasura loved Shiva so much he wished to have him always near.

• Those perceiving Asuras as Demons consider it an assassination attempt.

Parvati, Shiva’s true love, was devastated and requested Vishnu’s help. Vishnu disguised himself as a wandering musician and coerced Brahma into accompanying him on the tabla. Nandi, Shiva’s mount, masqueraded as a dancing bull.

Gajasura was so impressed with Nandi that he offered the musicians any gift. They requested that he return Shiva. Gajasura acquiesced but knew that the act of disgorging Shiva would kill him. He requested that his elephant head be preserved and given so much importance that everyone would worship it. Eventually, that head wound up on Ganesha’s shoulders.

ORIGIN:

India

SEE ALSO:

• Ashura
• Ganesha
• Nandi
• Parvati
• Shiva

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.