Puranic Encyclopaedia: A Comprehensive Dictionary with Special Reference to the Epic and Puranic Literature c7.51

c7.51

7) Vighneśvaratvam. (Power to remove all obstacles). Gaṇapati is called Vighneśvara because he is the god who removes all obstacles from the paths of men or creates them. Gaṇapati has the power to get anything done without any obstructions as also the power to put obstacles in the path of anything being got done. Therefore, the custom came into vogue of worshipping Gaṇapati at the very commencement of any action for its completion without any hitch or hindrance, Actions begun with such worship would be duly completed, Indians believe. In support of that belief the following story from the 6th taraṅga of Lāvaṇakalambakam, Kathāsaritsāgara may be quoted.