Ganesha is worshipped at the beginning of all undertakings as remover of obstacles. He is son of Shiva and Parvati (Durga). His elephant head symbolizes wisdom; trunk implies dexterity (can easily uproot a tree as well as pick up a needle). Ganesha seated on the mouse is to remind us to take control of our fickle minds and afflictions that harm us like what a mouse does to a heap of grain. Special events in the temple include: Ganesha Caturthi (Aug–Sep), Ganesha Atharvashirsha Path (hymn from Atharvana Veda) every 4th Sunday, and annual Gana Homa in the Yagashala.
