The son of Shiva and Parvati, Shiva unkowingly slew him by slicing off his head. He brought him back to life with the head of an elephant. Seen as the "remover" of obstacles, this may give an inaccurate interpretation of what he does. Sometimes obstacles are not removed, but rather new possibilities are presented. The obstacle may remain but it no longer is in your way to success. Traditionally, Ganesha is honored at the start of Tantric and Hindu rituals, even if the ritual is dedicated to another deity. He is also called upon at the start of any new endeavor. Also known as Ganesh or Ganapati.