One day Shiva and Parvati’s sons Ganesha and Kartikeya argued about which of them was greater. Their parents said, “Whoever circles the whole earth first and returns will win.”
Kartikeya immediately set off on his peacock. Ganesha’s vehicle was a tiny mouse, which was slow. Yet he calmly began to think.
Ganesha seated his mother Parvati and father Shiva in one place and circled them with devotion. Then, with folded hands, he said, “For me, you are the whole world.”
Shiva and Parvati were very pleased with his wisdom and devotion. When Kartikeya returned after circling the earth, he found Ganesha already seated there. The parents declared Ganesha the winner.
Tradition holds that this is why Ganesha is worshipped at the start of every auspicious task. The story carries the message of wisdom and honouring one’s parents.