Why Lord Ganesha is first among equals?

Lord Ganesha’s name is taken before the auspicious beginning of a work or inauguration especially during Griha Pravesh in every Hindu household. Despite the presence of 36 crore deities, why Son of Lord Shiva and Parvati is worshipped first. An intriguing story lies behind this question.

As per a mythological story, once all the gods and goddess of the universe wished to test the strength of their respective carrier.  Lord Ganesha was in the doldrums as the test was to complete the Parikrama of the whole universe. The vehicle of Lord Ganesha was a mouse.  To expect a mouse to surpass other agile and acrobatic vehicles of other deities was a far fetched fantasy. However, little Ganpati proved a crafty player in this competition. When the race started, Ganpati quickly completed the Parikrama of his parents Lord Shiva and Parvati and declared himself as winner of the race.

Devotee of his parents, Lord Ganesha said that parents are equivalent to the universe for a child and all the pilgrims are present in them. He further added that his father is Lord Shiva, a Tripurari and mother Parvati. The whole lot of god-goddess started heaping praises on Lord Ganesha. Subsequently, his name was recommended for Adya Poojan i.e. Ganesh will be the very first god to be worshiped in a religious ceremony, even before his parents Shiva and Parvati. Ganpati earned this honor by his wisdom.

It is one of the reason why Lord Ganesha is also called as Vighnharta. When Lord Ganesha is worshipped, he acts a trouble shooter through his wisdom.  Thus the foundation of Lord Ganesh Statue ensures success and prosperity.  The story not only proves the wisdom, but also the devotion of Lord Ganesha towards his parents.  

Ganesha as a transcripter

When Ved Vyas was searching someone who can transcribe Mahabharata as per his narrative, Lord Brahma recommended erudite Ganapati. Later Ved Vyas dictated the Mahabharata and Lord Ganesha became its writer. However Ved Vyasa agreed to assign writing project to Ganesha on a condition. Ganesha wasn’t supposed to stop Ved Vyasa to stop dictation until he completes the transcription. It happened so. It is believed that in the history of Aryan Literature, the tradition of transcription, or plain writing the text was kicked off by the god with the trunk, Ganesha.