Parvati

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Parvati is the wife of the Hindu deity Shiva. She is a daughter of the Himalayas, who is also called Uma, “the shining one.” Shiva and Parvati are often shown as a loving couple embracing each other. Their children, Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, and Skanda, a great warrior, often appear with the couple.

Ganesha

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Shiva’s son Ganesha is the elephant-headed deity. He is a god who brings success and prosperity to his worshippers.

A Javanese Ganesha

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
One propitiates Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of the Hindu god Shiva, upon entering a Hindu temple. His prominent position at the entryway is appropriate, for he is the Lord of Obstacles, able to both instigate and remove them.