Story of Ganesha

According to the Shiva Purāṇa, the birth of Ganesha took place after Shiva and Parvati had returned to Kailāsa following their marriage. Parvati's companions, Jaya and Vijaya, pointed out that although Nandi, Bhringi and the other Gaṇas served her as well, they were ultimately obedient to Shiva's command. They therefore suggested that Parvati create an attendant who would belong exclusively to her and obey her alone. The suggestion became particularly relevant when, while Parvati was bathing, Shiva entered her inner apartment after rebuking Nandi. Feeling embarrassed by his untimely arrival, Parvati resolved that she should have a servant of her own who would never disregard her command. With this intention, Parvati created a handsome and powerful youth from the mala, the bodily substance or scurf from her own body. The boy was spotless in appearance, radiant, strong and valiant. She adorned him with beautiful garments and ornaments and, embracing him with affection, declared, "You are my son. You are my own." The boy immediately asked for her command. Parvati then instructed him to serve as the dvārapāla, the guardian of her entrance, and ordered him that no one was to enter her apartment without her permission. She gave him a strong staff and placed him at the doorway. Thus armed, the youthful guardian stood faithfully at the entrance while Parvati went to bathe.