Ganesha had swallowed the fire demon Anala. Unfortunately, the demon started troubling his stomach. Ganesha felt like his stomach was on fire! He was unable to lie down or remain still. He shouted in pain, “Oh my stomach! Help me. It is burning!” Ganesha rolled on the ground in immense pain. Tears rolled down his eyes, in suffering. He was unable to bear the burning sensation. The gods panicked to see Ganesha in pain. “We must put out the fire quickly, or else he will die!” Some poured cold water on his stomach. A few brought icy cold water for him to drink. Moon said, “I have a cool nature; let me soothe him.” But nothing worked. Someone called the Water-god, Varun. He poured the cool Ganga water on Ganesha’s stomach. But Ganesha’s suffering continued.
Ganesha’s Fiery Stomach
