In the celestial realms, a playful disagreement arose between Lord Ganesha and his brother, Kartikeya. They wished to determine who was the fastest and wisest.

Their parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, decided to settle this argument by hosting a race. A race around the world, three times, with the winner declared as the fastest and wisest.

Kartikeya, seated on his swift peacock, took off at lightning speed. He was confident of his victory and eager to prove his prowess.

Ganesha, however, was riding a tiny mouse. He knew he couldn't match Kartikeya's speed. But he was wise and had a clever plan.

Instead of attempting to race around the world, Ganesha walked leisurely around his parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, three times.

With his task completed, Ganesha sat down, looking satisfied. His clever plan had worked, but would his parents understand?

When Kartikeya returned, he was exhausted but triumphant. He was surprised to find Ganesha already there, looking calm and pleased.

Confused, Kartikeya asked how Ganesha had completed the race so quickly. Ganesha simply smiled, ready to explain his clever strategy.

Ganesha said, 'For me, my parents are my world. By walking around them, I have circled my entire world three times.'

Hearing this, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were immensely pleased. They admired Ganesha's wisdom and declared him the winner of the race.

From that day, Ganesha became known as the god of wisdom and intellect. He had proven that cleverness and love often outshine speed and strength.

His brother Kartikeya too, learned a valuable lesson. Speed and strength are important, but wisdom and love hold the true essence of life.