Mushikavahana Modaka Hasta (Ganesha Prayer) — Word-by-Word Meaning
मूषिकवाहन मोदकहस्त (गणेश प्रार्थना)
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
मूषिकवाहन
Mūṣikavāhana
One whose vehicle (vahana) is the mouse
मोदकहस्त
Modakahasta
One who holds a modaka (sweet dumpling) in his hand
चामरकर्ण
Chāmarakarṇa
One whose ears are like fans (chamara), fanning away worries
विलम्बितसूत्र
Vilambitasūtra
One on whom the sacred thread (yajnopavita) hangs gracefully
वामनरूप
Vāmanarūpa
One of short / dwarf-like form
महेश्वरपुत्र
Maheśvaraputra
The son of Maheshwara (Lord Shiva)
विघ्नविनायक
Vighnavināyaka
Vinayaka, the remover of obstacles (vighna)
पाद
Pāda
Feet (your holy feet)
नमस्ते
Namaste
Salutations to you / I bow to you
Complete Translation
O Lord whose vehicle is the mouse, who holds a sweet modaka in your hand, whose great ears fan like chamaras, upon whom the sacred thread hangs gracefully; O short-formed one, son of Lord Shiva, O Vinayaka who removes all obstacles — I bow to your holy feet.
Origin & History
Source: Traditional Ganesha prayer / dhyana shloka
Author: Unknown (traditional)
Period: Classical
This affectionate verse is among the most widely taught Ganesha prayers in homes and schools. Each epithet paints a feature of Ganesha's iconic form — the mouse mount, the modaka in hand, the broad fan-like ears, the sacred thread, his short rounded form — and identifies him as the son of Maheshwara (Shiva) and the great Vinayaka who clears all obstacles. As Ganesha is honoured first in every undertaking, this prayer naturally serves as an opening invocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mushikavahana mean?▼
Mushika-vahana means 'one whose vehicle (vahana) is the mouse (mushika).' Lord Ganesha rides a small mouse, a charming symbol of his power to make even the smallest creature his mount and to overcome obstacles great and small.
Why does Ganesha hold a modaka?▼
The modaka is a sweet dumpling beloved by Ganesha. It symbolizes the sweetness of attained wisdom and the rewards of spiritual effort. 'Modaka-hasta' means 'the one with a modaka in his hand.'
When should this prayer be chanted?▼
Before any new beginning — starting a journey, opening a business, beginning study, or commencing a puja. Since Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and is worshipped first, this short prayer is ideal for any auspicious start.
Is this a good prayer for children?▼
Yes, it is one of the first Ganesha prayers taught to children because it is short, rhythmic, and vividly describes Ganesha's beloved form. It instills devotion and is easy to remember.
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