Binayaka, 毘那夜迦), Vighnāntaka, or Gaṇapati (Jp: Ganabachi, 誐那鉢底; Tibetan: tshogs bdag) is a Buddhist deity venerated in various traditions of Mahayana Buddhism.

In Indo-Tibetan Buddhism he is depicted with a big belly and may be white, red or yellow, and have four or more arms that carry various weapons and implements.

Ganesha's emergence in the historical record is linked to the vināyakas, a group of troublesome demons in Hindu texts which were known to create obstacles for Buddhist practitioners.

[14] Vināyaka is also depicted in a wall painting in Mogao Cave 285 in Dunhuang as a protector of Buddhism with the gods Maheshvara (Shiva) and Skanda.

Various Chinese esoteric sources contain rituals invoking Vināyaka as a protector against obstacle causing demons.

[17] Some East Asian esoteric sources contain a "Dual-bodied Kangiten", which is depicted as an embracing male-female couple.

Over time, Vināyaka evolved into an important deity with a dedicated cult focused on subjugation rites, notably during the Heian period.

[19] The medieval period onwards reveals the integration of Kangiten into official state-sponsored rites in Japan, showcasing his invocation in various contexts, including subjugation rituals against political opponents.

[20] Vinayaka's worship spread further during the Edo period, though caution was required in performing rituals without the guidance of qualified priests.

[21][22] The emergence of Esoteric (Tantric) Buddhism and its spread to Nepal, Tibet and the Himalayan regions saw the growth of Vināyaka / Ganapati as an important protector deity (dharmapala) and subjugator of demons.

A Nepalese text provides a list of spells invoking Ganapati to not only bestow wealth but also to cause harm to enemies.

Depending on the tradition, he may be depicted as white, red, or yellow, with four or more arms, and with several different implements, weapons and companion figures (like a rat, which he often mounts).

Wearing various silks as a lower garment and adorned with a variety of jewel ornaments, the left foot is extended in a dancing manner, standing in the middle of the bright rays of red flickering light.

Theravada Buddhists may possess Ganesha statues displayed on altars below Buddha images in their homes and businesses.

Practitioners turn to Ganesha as they do any other powerful figure-for safety and protection, a particular wish to obtain one's desires, or general help with wealth, health and prosperity.