Ganesha
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Worship and festivals
Celebrations of Ganesh by the Indian and Sri Lankan Tamil community in Paris, France
The worship of Ganesha is considered complementary with the worship of other deities. Hindus of all sects begin prayers, important undertakings, and religious ceremonies with an invocation of Ganesha. An opening prayer to Ganesha is a common practice in arts like Bharatnatyam dance and plays. Mantras such as Om Shri Ganeshāya Namah ("Om, salutation to the Illustrious Ganesha"), and others, are often used. One of the most famous mantras associated with Ganesha is Om Gaṃ Ganapataye Namah (literally, "Om, Gaṃ, Salutation to the Lord of Hosts"). He is commonly worshipped with red flowers, such as the red Hibiscus. Dūrvā grass (Cynodon dactylon) is used in his worship. Ganesha is also offered various sweets, such as modaka.