Ganesha Purana is the authentic source of all things Ganesha. Described by Bhrighu Maharshi, it is made of two parts: Upasana Khanda and Krida Khanda. Upasana Khanda is the first part part of Ganesha Purana. Upasana Khanda talks about various Ganesha devotees and their devotion towards Ganesha. Glory of Mudgala Maharshi is highlighted in this Purana. In this Purana, King Soma Kantha, after ruling present Gujarat for many years retires to forest with his wife on the account of an incurable disease. Chyavana Maharshi takes pity on them and introduces the king to his father Brighu Maharshi. Brighu Maharshi then narrates the Ganesha Purana to Soma Kantha. In this Purana, the narrations of Soma Kantha, Daksha (different from the one performed Daksha Yagnya), Kamala, Rukmangada, Ahalya Kruta Veerya (father of Karta Veerya Arjuna) are covered.
Many Ganesha’s Avataras such as Ballala Vinayaka and Chintamani Vinayaka originated in this Purana. These are collectively known today as the Ashta Vinayakas. This Purana also details various methods of worship for Ganesha including Varada Ganesha Vrath, Chaturthi Vrath. This Purana is the source of Ganesha Sahasra Nama. Glories of Durva and why they are so important in Ganesha Puja is explained in detail. The book concludes with the Slaying of Analasura, Tarakasura and the praise of Ganesha made by Parasu Rama in his efforts to fulfill his destiny.
