Wisdom to fertility: Significance of elephants in Hindu mythology
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World Elephant Day 2024
World Elephant Day is celebrated on August 12 annually to raise awareness for the preservation and care of elephants and their history and significance in different cultures.
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Significance of elephants in Hinduism
Elephants are scared creatures in Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hindu culture, elephants are worshipped and are symbols of power, wisdom, fertility, and loyalty.
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Lord Ganesha
Lord Ganesha, also known as 'The Elephant God', is worshipped all over the world by Hindus. Lord Ganesha is an elephant-headed god and is the epitome of wisdom and prosperity.
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Elephants in Puranas
In the Puranas, the 'King of elephants', Airavata is mentioned. He is also in Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is also believed that 4 elephants standing on a turtle are holding earth.
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Elephants in Hinduism
Elephants play a major role in South Indian temples and rituals. Elephants are also worshiped as Lord Ganesha aka 'Vighnaharta' known for removing obstacles.
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Elephants in Hindu culture
Elephant idols have been part of Hinduism and Buddhism. Idols, artwork, and elephant print on sarees and other fabrics have been a part of Hindu culture since ancient times.