Om Gan Ganapataye Namah
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः
oṁ gaṁ gaṇapataye namaḥ
Meaning
Gam is Ganapati's beeja — the whole name held in one syllable. The full sentence: a bow to Ganapati, lord of the ganas. Every puja and every new venture begins with Ganesha, so this is the mantra of beginnings — studies, journeys, a new business, a new home.
How to do the jaap
Wednesday is Ganapati's day, and on Ganesh Chaturthi the jaap is held special. Before starting any work, 11 or 21 times; for regular jaap, a mala of 108.
Paths of this naam
Frequently asked questions
How is gam pronounced?
Like gum with the m through the nose — gaṁ. A beeja is short, so its pronunciation is its whole form: chant it slow and clear.
Is this mantra chanted for children's studies?
In tradition Ganapati gives buddhi, so studies begin with this mantra — children can chant it themselves; it is short and simple.