Shri Ganesha, the revered Hindu deity known as the Remover of Obstacles and the God of Beginnings, holds a special place in the hearts of millions worldwide. While traditionally worshiped in India, the veneration of Lord Ganesha has transcended geographical boundaries and cultural barriers. Here is an exploration of the global presence of Shri Ganesha, the various forms in which he is worshiped, the names he is known by in different countries, and the beliefs associated with him beyond India's borders.

Worship of Shri Ganesha Around the World
**1. ** Nepal: As a neighboring country to India with a significant Hindu population, Nepal also reveres Shri Ganesha. He is often worshiped during festivals, and temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha can be found in various parts of Nepal.

**2. ** Sri Lanka: In Sri Lanka, especially among the Tamil Hindu community, Lord Ganesha is a widely worshiped deity. He is believed to bring good fortune and remove obstacles, making his presence prominent in homes and temples.

**3. ** Thailand: In Thailand, Lord Ganesha is known as Phra Phikanet. While the majority of the population practices Buddhism, Ganesha is revered as a deity who can help with overcoming challenges, and his image can be found in many Thai households.

**4. ** Cambodia: In Cambodia, Ganesha is known as Vinayaka. He is worshiped primarily by the Cham people, an ethnic group with Hindu roots. Temples dedicated to Lord Vinayaka can be seen in certain regions of Cambodia.

**5. ** Indonesia: Shri Ganesha's presence in Indonesia is particularly noteworthy. Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, Indonesia has a deep-rooted history of Hinduism and Buddhism. Lord Ganesha, known as "Ganesha" or "Ganesh," is recognized and respected by various communities. His image even appears on the Indonesian currency, the Rupiah, as a symbol of protection and prosperity.

**6. ** Bhutan: In Bhutan, a country steeped in Buddhist traditions, Lord Ganesha is revered as a guardian deity who can remove obstacles and grant success. His image can be found in homes and places of worship.

**7. ** Mauritius: With a significant Hindu population, Mauritius celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with great enthusiasm. Lord Ganesha is seen as a protector of the island and is worshiped with fervor during this festival.

Names and Beliefs About Shri Ganesha Abroad
While the core beliefs about Lord Ganesha remain consistent worldwide, his name may vary in different countries and regions. In Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, his name is similar to "Ganesha." In Cambodia, he is referred to as "Vinayaka," and in Bhutan, he is known as "Ganesh."

The beliefs associated with Shri Ganesha are also relatively consistent across these countries. He is revered as the deity who removes obstacles, brings good fortune, and is a symbol of wisdom and intelligence. Lord Ganesha is often invoked at the beginning of important endeavors, ceremonies, and festivals to seek his blessings for a smooth and successful outcome.

Lord Ganesha on Indonesian Currency
The presence of Shri Ganesha on the Indonesian Rupiah serves as a testament to the country's cultural diversity and religious tolerance. While Indonesia is the largest Muslim-majority country in the world, it also recognizes and respects its Hindu and Buddhist heritage. The inclusion of Lord Ganesha's image on currency notes symbolizes protection, prosperity, and the coexistence of different religious and cultural traditions within the nation.

The worship of Shri Ganesha extends far beyond the borders of India. Lord Ganesha's universal appeal as the God of Beginnings and the Remover of Obstacles has led to his veneration in various forms and under different names in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Bhutan, Mauritius, and notably, Indonesia. His presence abroad is a testament to the enduring significance and reverence for this beloved deity across the world.

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