5 relationship lessons to learn from Lord Ganesha

Lord Ganesha is one of the most beloved Gods in Hinduism. The elephant-headed God, Ganesha is known for his immense wisdom and ability to destroy all problems in one's life. For the unversed, Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. As we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, which is the birth of Lord Ganesha, this year, here we list some relationship lessons one can learn from Ganesh ji.

The elephant-headed God, Ganesha has large ears which symbolises the importance of being a good listener. It teaches one to listen to others actively and with patience. When applied to our relationships, it reminds us to speak less and listen more-- a skill which can help avoid misunderstandings and also help in creating deeper bonds with others.

Ganesh ji is often called Vignaharta, which means the one who removes obstacles. He is known to be kind and compassionate to his devotees. And that's why, before commencing any auspicious work most Hindus one often pray to Lord Ganesha to seek his blessings so that their work happens smoothly and peacefully. Learning from Ganesh ji, one should also be helpful and kind to everyone in their life. This teaches us to be compassionate towards others and to help them in times of need, instead of getting irritated or frustrated on knowing about someone's problems.

Lord Ganesha has a unique appearance-- he has an elephant head on top of a human body. However, Ganesh ji is much loved by all his devotees. This teaches one that love transcends all imperfections. It teaches us to accept people as they are, with all their flaws, for happy and healthy relationships. It also teaches one to embrace and love themselves as they are for a happy life.

Ganesh ji is often called the Hindu God of Wisdom. His elephant head symbolises wisdom; while his love for all his devotees shows his compassion and understanding. And so, one can learn to seek understanding with others in our inter-personal relationships, just like Ganesh ji. We should also learn to apply wisdom in our relationships-- be it by clearing and openly communicating with others or by forgiving people and moving on in life. This can help us navigate the ups and downs in our relationships and create healthy bonds with others.

Lord Ganesha has a big elephant head and body, however, he rides on a small mouse (moosak) which symbolises ego. And so, by riding on a mouse, Ganesh ji teaches one to let go of their pride and not have an ego. When this lesson is applied in relationships, it teaches us to let go of our ego and instead compromise with others. This helps in creating happy and deeper connections with others.