Ganesha also known as Ganapati and Vinayaka is one of the best-known and most worshiped deities in the Hindu pantheon. Ganesha's elephant head makes him easy to identify. Ganesha is widely revered as the remover of obstaclesthe patron of arts and sciences and the deva of intellect and wisdom. As the god of beginnings he is honoured at the start of rites and ceremonies. Ganesha is also invoked as patron of letters and learning during writing sessions.