Vastu-shastra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v2.c75.s3.86

v2.c75.s3.86

*N. B.*—*Bighnāntaka* is closely associated with three other gods, *Padmāntaka*, *Yamāntaka* and *Prajñāntaka*, who are generally represented as guardian of the gates in Maṇḍalas. Vighnāntaka is represneted in various forms. The name is significant as the word “Vighna” or “obstacle” refers to the Hindu god, Gaṇeśa. Accordingly he tramples the prostrate figure of Gaṇeśa under his feet. As to the origin of this god there runs a Nepalese legend ‘that at a certain time an Odiyāna Paṇḍit wās performing certain Tāntric rites on the bank of Bāghmatī river near Kāṭhamāṇḍu in order to obtain a particular siddhi (perfection). Gaṇśa, it is said, being strongly opposed to the idea, began throwing dangerous obstacles in the way of the performance of the rite. The Odiyana Pandit without seeing any succour invoked the god Vighnāntaka, the destroyer of all obstacles and lo! Vighnāntaka instantly appeared in a terrible and fierce form, armed with many destructive weapons. He gave a hot chase to Gaṇeśa, who was by this time, flying in terror, and in no time overcame the latter.’