Lord Mahodara - Third Form of Lord Ganesha

Lord Mahodara

The Mahodara incarnation of Lord Ganesha is considered the Jnana-Brahma who is the illuminator of knowledge and Brahman. In ancient times, there was a demon named Taraka who became victorious over the Trilokas due to a boon granted by Lord Brahma. The Gods and Sages who suffered because of him wandered in forests for a long time and performed intense penance for Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. However, Lord Shiva was in deep meditation, prompting the Sages to seek the refuge of Goddess Parvati. Goddess Parvati then assumed the form of a huntress and went to Lord Shiva's hermitage. While selecting fragrant flowers, She created an aura of allure, breaking Lord Shiva's meditation. Upon noticing the huntress-like form of Goddess Parvati, She immediately disappeared. At that moment, a fierce, handsome male form called Moha was created by Lord Shiva. Understanding the Lila of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva cursed Kamadeva, the god of love, reducing him to ashes. To be freed from the curse, Kamadeva performed severe penance dedicated to Lord Mahodara.

The delighted Lord Mahodara said - "I cannot reverse Lord Shiva's curse, but I can certainly provide you with a place to reside and a new form." Thereafter, Lord Mahadeva informed Kamadeva about the places where he could reside, which are as follows:

Youth, women, and flowers are the abodes of Kamadeva. Singing, the nectar of flowers, the melodious chirping of birds, gardens, the spring season, and sandalwood are also his dwellings. The company of sensuous individuals, the sight of intimate features, gentle breezes, new garments, and ornaments — all these serve as various forms and residences created for Kamadeva.

Lord Mahodara further blessed Kama by saying - "With these forms, you will once again be able to overpower the Gods as before. You shall be renowned across all realms by the names 'Manobhu' and 'Smritibhu.' Moreover, during the earthly incarnation of Lord Shri Krishna, you will manifest as His son, Pradyumna."

Lord Shiva's son, Lord Kartikeya, once worshipped Lord Ganesha through the Shadakshara ritual. Pleased with His devotion, Lord Mahodara blessed Him, saying - "You shall be the one to slay Tarakasura." In the future, Lord Kartikeya fulfilled this prophecy by vanquishing Tarakasura, bringing great relief and satisfaction to the Gods.

After learning from Shukracharya, the demon Mohasura commenced his worship of Lord Surya. Pleased by his penance, Lord Surya blessed him with immunity from diseases and victory everywhere. With this boon, Mohasura unleashed terror, forcing Gods and Sages to hide in mountains and caves. During this time, he married Madira, the daughter of Pramadasura. All religious practices and the Varna system fell into disarray. Seeing this, Lord Surya advised the Gods to worship Lord Ganesha through the Ekakshara ritual. Enduring hardships, the Gods and Sages devotedly performed the worship of Lord Mahodara. Responding to their call, Lord Mahodara appeared and declared - "I shall vanquish Mohasura. I assure you. All of you need not worry."

Afterwards, Lord Mahodara mounted His vehicle, the mouse, and set forth with the purpose of slaying Mohasura. Devarishi Narada informed Mohasura of this and explained to him the greatness of Lord Mahodara. Lord Vishnu also advised Mohasura to seek refuge in Lord Mahodara. Mohasura, humbled and free of arrogance, decided to surrender to Lord Mahodara. He requested Lord Vishnu to invite the Supreme Lord Mahodara to his city in any way possible. Accepting the invitation from Lord Vishnu, Lord Mahodara arrived in Mohasura's city. There, with great devotion, Mohasura worshipped Him and vowed to obey all of Lord Mahodara's commands.

With the fear of Mohasura eradicated, the Gods, Sages, and righteous men and women found happiness once again. The rule of Dharma was reestablished, bringing peace and harmony to the world.