The first form of Lord Ganesha, 'Vakratunda,' exemplifies the renunciation of worldly pleasures and the demonstration of material progress!

 

The descent of the gods from heaven to defeat demons on Earth is a crucial part of Hindu mythological narratives. In every age, God has manifested to hear the prayers of devotees, understand the reasons for their concerns in times of calamity, and alleviate them. Such is the form of Lord Ganesha known as 'Vakratunda.

According to the Mudgala Purana, Ganesha assumes eight forms in each age to combat evil. Matsarasura decided to worship Lord Shiva to obtain a boon. The victory of Vakratunda over Matsarasura symbolizes transcending human desires and material pleasures to attain ultimate truth.

In the narrative of Mudgala Purana, Matsarasura's birth was a consequence of Indra's actions, but Indra rejected him. This rejection filled Matsarasura with such envy that he planned to annihilate Indra to establish himself as the ruler of creation.

Matsarasura resolved to worship Lord Shiva to gain a boon. After years of intense penance, Shiva appeared before him. Matsarasura humbly folded his hands before Shiva. Pleased with his devotion, Shiva granted him the boon of fearlessness, ensuring that Matsarasura would not fear any living being.

After receiving Shiva's blessing, Matsarasura became the king of demons. With the help of his two sons, Sundarapriya and Vishayapriya, he achieved victory over all three worlds. However, his reign of destruction began. The gods, troubled by Matsarasura and his sons, sought help from Lord Shiva. Shiva, bound by the boon of fearlessness granted to Matsarasura, advised the gods to worship Lord Ganesha.

Responding to their call, Ganesha appeared before them in the form of Vakratunda, seated on a lion. He assured them that he would stop the menacing demon. Matsarasura sent his sons to battle, but both were defeated and killed by Vakratunda.

Upon seeing the powerful deity riding a lion with an elephant head, Matsarasura was terrified beyond imagination. Unable to muster the courage to fight, he surrendered. Kneeling before Vakratunda, Matsarasura begged for forgiveness. Ganesha accepted his apology, bringing peace to all three realms.

Thus, Ganesha's first incarnation as Vakratunda completely ended the era of Matsarasura's destruction.