Ganesh was the son of Shiva and Parvathi. He is the most loved god in Hindu culture. His image is found in homes of almost all Hindustani's  Here is one of them: There many stories about the birth of Ganesh. His presence is auspicious and brings great joy, prosperity and protection to children and families.

The elephant head

It's said that Lord Ganesha's mother, Goddess Parvati, carved an idol of a boy out of turmeric powder and breathed life into it, unbeknownst to her husband, Lord Shiva.

So, when Ganesha denied Lord Shiva entry into his abode--because Goddess Parvati was bathing inside--Shiva decapitated Ganesha's head in anger. According to legend, an elephant was the first animal that Lord Brahma later found when he went out to look for one (to replace Ganesha's head).