Honoring Ganesha in India

Join the procession to honor Ganesha. Adorn an elaborate sculpture to add to your understanding of this Indian tradition.

• 1.

  In India, Ganesha is honored during Ganesh Chaturthi. The 10-day festival ends with a procession accompanied by drummers, singers, and dancers. Research legends about Ganesha and find out what his figure, and traditional Hindu art, looks like.

• 2.

  <STRONG> Make a base</STRONG>. With Crayola® Scissors, cut a cardboard or foam board base for your display. Decorate the panel in the style of Hindu art with Crayola Rainbow Twistables. Color additional sections on recycled file folders. Cut out and attach pieces with Crayola School Glue.

• 3.

  <STRONG> Sculpt Ganesha</STRONG>. Blend white Crayola Model Magic with color from Crayola Washable Markers until you have mixed the color you want. Shape Ganesha’s elephant head and crown. Air-dry the sculpture overnight.

• 4.

  <STRONG> Accessorize Ganesha</STRONG>. Cover your art area with newspaper. Paint the crown on Ganesha’s head with a Crayola Paint Brush and gold Premier Tempera. Air-dry the crown. Add details with Crayola Glitter Glue. Glue on recycled costume jewelry and other collage materials. Air-dry your elaborate sculpture.

Benefits

• Students learn about the Hinduism.
• Students explore the visual language of Hindu art.
• Students recreate a three-dimensional sculpture of Ganesha as a culmination of their research.

Adaptations

• In many traditions, there are figures that have human and animal body parts. Uncover these traditions and discuss their meaning.
• Learn more about the rich iconography of the Hindus. Visit a museum to see historic artwork. Rent a popular movie made in India and try to find the artwork.
• The Asian elephant is an endangered species. Discover how many are left on Earth. How do these elephants differ from African elephants (also endangered)? Learn about this animal’s journey from master of the plains to service animal to endangered species.