Lambodara is one among the numerous names of Ganesha.
Lambodara means the potbellied one – one with a huge stomach. Mudgala Purana
states that Ganapati took the form of Lambodara to defeat demon Krodhasura
(Anger). The story of Lambodra is associated with the Mohini Avatar of Vishnu
and Shiva.
Asuras and Devas were fight for the Amrta (nectar) that
appeared during the Samudra Manthan (Churning of Ocean). To rescue it from
Asuras, Vishnu appeared in the form of Mohini.
The Asuras were attracted by the divine damsel and this lack
of attention on the part of Asuras were cleverly used by Mohini to serve the
Amrta to Devas. Thus Devas became immortal.
Shiva who heard about the maddening charm of Mohini wished
to see her. The wait to see the Mohini
form resulted in the birth of Krodhasura – the result of impatience and anger.
To subdue this Asura form Ganesha appeared as Lambodara.
Symbolically, those who are unable to control their temper
should take refuge in Ganesha. Only he can help in controlling anger.