Lord Ganesha, or Ganpati Bappa, is one of the most beloved Indian Gods. With Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 just around the corner, the preparation for the grand celebrations has now begun in full swing. But did you know that apart from India, Lord Ganesha, the ‘God of new beginnings’, is worshipped in many other countries too? His influence on Hinduism and Buddhism has made him an equally important deity across Asia. Here are six countries, apart from India, where Lord Ganesha is revered.
6 Countries Beyond India Where Lord Ganesha Is Worshipped
1. Japan
In Japan, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as Kangiten. In Japanese culture, Ganpati Bappa is seen as a remover of obstacles and a bringer of joy and success. His worship here is closely tied to Buddhism. Unlike India, where he is known for his love of modaks, in Japan, he is offered daikon radishes. Temples such as Matsuchiyama Shoden and Hozanji are dedicated to Kangiten in Japan.
2. Thailand
Thailand, a largely Buddhist country, is also known for its deep reverence for several Hindu Gods. One of which is Lord Ganesha, worshipped here as Phra Phikanet, a deity of fortune and success. Thai people believe he brings happiness and helps them overcome challenges. Across Thailand, many statues and shrines are dedicated to him, visited by both locals and international travellers. Wat Phra Sri Umadevi is one of the most well-known temples of Ganesh ji in Thailand.
3. Indonesia
Indonesia, especially Bali, holds Lord Ganesha in great significance. He is worshipped as the God of luck, wisdom, and new beginnings. As per some historical records, by the 7th and 8th centuries, Ganesh ji was recognised as a major deity in Indonesia. He is worshipped alongside deities like Vishnu, Shiva and Saraswati in many Indonesian Hindu Communities. Lord Ganesha also features prominently in Indonesia’s ancient culture and art.
Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: From Modak To Ice Cream, 10 Festive Gifts To Make Your Celebration Special
4. Nepal
In Nepal, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the deity of good fortune, particularly among the Hindu Newar community. Known as Ganesa, Ganpati, and Vinayak, he is honoured at the start of religious ceremonies, just like in India. Nepal also has many temples dedicated to him, including Maru Ganesh in Kathmandu and Surya Vinayak in Bhaktapur.
5. Malaysia
Malaysia, with a significant Hindu community, also widely worships Lord Ganesha. He is considered the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles. What’s more? Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated every year here, and many families keep the deity’s idols in their homes for good luck. The Sri Sithi Vinayagar Temple is one of the popular places dedicated to him in this country.
6. Cambodia
Lord Ganesha has been worshipped in Cambodia since the 5th-6th century, introduced through the spread of Shaivite Hinduism(a major branch of Hinduism that worships Lord Shiva as the supreme God). He also holds an important place in Khmer art and folk traditions, with intricate carvings from the Khmer Empire showing his influence. People believe he brings liberation and removes obstacles from their lives. Many temples in Cambodia are dedicated to Ganpati Bappa.
Also Read: Did You Know A Community In Karnataka Offers Non-Veg Food To Lord Ganesha As Part Of 100-YO Custom?
With Ganesh Chaturthi just around the corner, stories like these prove Ganpati Bappa’s presence reaches beyond India.
Cover Image Courtesy: Ganesha in world religions, Wikipedia/ Okkisafire
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