Why Ganapati idols are shown with musical instruments

Many idols of Gods and Goddesses are depicted holding a musical instrument. Some are directly associated with a specific instrument. For example, Goddess Saraswati with the veena, Lord Krishna with the flute, etc. 

The idols of Ganapati will often be seen having a musical instrument, maybe a flute or a mridangam or tablas.

In fact, when you look at idols and images of Lord Ganesha, you will see the widest variety of traditional musical instruments. Ever wondered why it is so?

From l to r: Ganapti with manjiras, mridnagam, flute and small dafli

(above murtis can be seen at Ganesh Udyan temple, located in the Shivaji Park grounds in Mumbai, Maharashtra)

Lord Ganesha is considered to be a patron of the arts and sciences and music is one of the arts. Moreover, Lord Ganesha is a heavenly being in the cosmos and the cosmos is said to be filled with divine rhythm and music. 

 

Ganapati with large drum

Ganapati with Tablas

Lord Ganesha is known to be a heavenly being who just loves all that gives beauty and pleasure, and music provides both. 

It is not surprising, then, that Lord Ganesha is known as Nadapratithishta, one who loves and appreciates music. In fact, Nadapratithishta is one of the 108 names of Lord Ganesha.

Thus Nadapratithishta is considered a holy name and many parents name their baby boy with this name. The birth star of the baby is the Sun and as per the western zodiac signs, he is a Scorpio.

Many people like to buy miniature idols of Ganapati playing different instruments and put them together in a prominent place in the home to depict a jugalbandhi of Ganeshas.

Multiple Ganeshas grouped together

Wall hangings of Ganapati for home or office decor:

There are even Tees with Bal Ganesha playing an electric Guitar!!