“The Ashtavinayak journey represents Lord Ganesha’s transition from being worshipped to being tested”: Anirudh Pathak creator of Sony SAB’s Ganesh Kartikey

Sony SAB’s mythological saga Gatha Shiv Parivaar Ki - Ganesh Kartikey enchants viewers as it unfolds the divine journey of Lord Ganesh (Nirnay Samadhiya) as the show takes viewers through the sacred Ashtavinayak Yatra. The episodes highlights age-old legends behind the Ashtavinayak temples and the different forms of Lord Ganesha. 

At the centre of this vision is creator Anirudh Pathak, who shares the inspiration behind bringing the story of the Ashtavinyaks to screen and why he believes these divine stories resonate so strongly with today’s audiences?

1. What inspired you to introduce the Ashtavinayak narrative at this stage in Ganesh Kartikey?
At this point in the story, Lord Ganesha is ready to move beyond protection and step into responsibility. The Ashtavinayak journey represents a natural transition from being worshipped to being tested. It allows the narrative to shift from celebration to self-discovery, making the journey more internal and transformative.

2. How is this track integral to Lord Ganesha’s growth and divine purpose in the show?
Each Ashtavinayak form confronts Lord Ganesha with a fundamental human weakness be it ego, fear, attachment, or excess. By resolving these challenges, he doesn’t just remove obstacles for others; he experiences the emotional cost and compassion behind doing so. This is how wisdom is earned, not inherited.

3. What was the research process like in bringing these centuries-old stories to life?
Our research involved a deep study of Puranic texts, regional folklore, temple traditions, and oral narratives associated with the Ashtavinayak temples. Beyond textual accuracy, our focus was on understanding the why behind each legend, its philosophical depth and social relevance and translating that meaning for today’s audiences.

4. Were there any lesser-known myths or details you were especially excited for audiences to discover?
Lord Ganesha is associated with 38 names and forms, each carrying its own fascinating story and philosophical significance. Many of these narratives are relatively lesser known, and we are consciously working to bring these powerful, nuanced stories to the forefront through this journey.

5. How do you balance authenticity with a fresh storytelling approach for modern viewers?
We stay true to the soul of the mythology while re-examining it through contemporary emotional questions. Rather than offering preachy answers, we allow characters to struggle, question, and evolve, because that process of discovery is what today’s audiences connect with most deeply.

6. What kind of discussions or reflections do you hope families will have after watching these episodes?
I hope families begin conversations around their own inner obstacles, fear, pride, impatience and how these shape everyday choices. If these stories encourage empathy, introspection, and shared reflection across generations, then the mythology has truly come alive in a meaningful way.