Through January 4, 2026
The Met
Ganesha, prominently recognized as the beloved son of the Hindu deities Shiva and Parvati, occupies a unique and cherished place in the spiritual and cultural landscapes of the Indian subcontinent and beyond. This exhibition, “Ganesha: Lord of New Beginnings,” offers an expansive exploration of the multifaceted depictions of Ganesha from the seventh to the twenty-first century, encompassing regions as diverse as the Indian subcontinent, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asia.
Devotees of Ganesha celebrate him for his role as a remover of obstacles and a spiritual guide who clears the path to the divine. His human qualities, such as an insatiable appetite for sweet cakes, reflect the deity’s approachable and joyous nature. Simultaneously, Ganesha is the lord of the ganas, nature deities, embodying a more formidable aspect that commands reverence and respect.
This exhibition brings together 24 exquisite works that collectively highlight Ganesha’s complex iconography and symbolic significance. The collection features varied media, including sculptures, paintings, musical instruments, ritual implements, and photography, thereby underscoring the cultural vitality and exuberance that surround this deity. Viewers gain insight into the ways in which Ganesha continues to inspire celebration, spiritual devotion, and artistic expression across centuries and cultures.
Through a thoughtful assembly of artifacts ranging from the early centuries to contemporary interpretations, the exhibition reveals how Ganesha’s image and stories have evolved and endured. His embodiment of new beginnings, magic, surprise, and laughter resonates universally, reflecting the timeless appeal of this figure beyond religious confines.
The show is generously supported by the Florence and Herbert Irving Fund for Asian Art Exhibitions and is currently on view at The Met Fifth Avenue, specifically in Gallery 251. Admission is free with the museum entrance, inviting a broad audience to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Hindu art and belief systems centered on this extraordinary deity.
For a deeper dive into the artworks and to plan your visit, please explore the exhibition’s official webpage at The Met Museum: Ganesha Exhibition.
