Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, was born to Goddess Parvati. She created Ganesha from the dirt and dust of her body and breathed life into him. Ganesha was tasked with guarding the entrance to Parvati's home. When Lord Shiva returned home, Ganesha refused to let him in, not recognizing him. Shiva, in a fit of anger, beheaded Ganesha. Later, when Parvati was grief-stricken, Shiva sent his attendants to find the head of the first living being they encountered, which was an elephant. They brought back the elephant's head and attached it to Ganesha's body, bringing him back to life.