In Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and intelligence. According to one popular story, Lord Ganesha adopted the rat as his vehicle because of its unique qualities.
One version of the story goes like this: Once, while Lord Ganesha was riding on his vehicle, a powerful demon named Krauncha attacked him. The demon had the ability to change its size and shape, and it transformed itself into a massive elephant to overpower Lord Ganesha. However, Lord Ganesha cleverly evaded the attack and turned himself into a tiny mouse, slipping into the demon’s ear and causing it immense pain. Eventually, the demon begged for mercy and Lord Ganesha spared its life.
Impressed by the mouse’s intelligence and quick thinking, Lord Ganesha decided to make it his vehicle. He saw the rat’s ability to move quickly and effortlessly through small spaces, as well as its intelligence and resourcefulness, as qualities that would serve him well as he went about his duties as the remover of obstacles.
In addition, the rat is also seen as a symbol of fertility and abundance in some cultures, so Lord Ganesha’s association with the rat as his vehicle may also be related to these meanings.
Overall, the rat’s agility, intelligence, and association with abundance and fertility are likely some of the reasons why Lord Ganesha adopted it as his vehicle.