Phra Phikanet (Thai: พระพิฆเนศ) is the Thai form of Ganesha, the Hindu deity who is the son of Shiva, god of destruction, and his consort Parvati. Legend holds that after his head was severed, Shiva restored him with the head of an elephant — the origin of his distinctive elephant-headed, human-bodied form, symbolising wisdom, harmony and the power to overcome every difficulty.
The Remover of Obstacles
Ganesha is renowned as the Remover of Obstacles (Vighnaharta), revered as the guardian invoked at the beginning of any endeavour, study or creative work. In India and Thailand alike, devotees pay respect to him before breaking ground, opening a business, sitting an examination, performing or signing a contract, praying that he clear the obstacles ahead and grant success at the first attempt — which is why his worship flourishes among those whose work demands inspiration and achievement.
Guardian of the Thai Arts
In Thailand, Ganesha is widely worshipped by those in the arts, design, music, performance and business, and he serves as the emblem of Thailand's Department of Fine Arts and its art academies, symbolising the transmission of wisdom and the arts. Shrines to Ganesha, such as the one at CentralWorld in Bangkok, draw fervent worship, attesting to his standing in urban devotion.
Iconography
Phra Phikanet is depicted with an elephant's head on a human body, a rounded belly and one broken tusk, his several hands holding an axe, a noose, a lotus and a bowl of sweets (modak); his mount is a small mouse, symbolising that wisdom can master desire and overcome obstacles. Common offerings include flowers, fruit, milk-based sweets and coconuts, offered in prayer for clarity of wisdom.
Wearing and Collecting
Ganesha amulets and images are a highly popular category of Thai sacred objects, signifying clarity of wisdom, the removal of every obstacle and success in one's work, and are best suited to those in creative fields, design, study and commerce, worn to invite flowing inspiration and smooth progress. They are honoured with a sincere and reverent heart and diligent devotion.
