Ganapatya were a sect in Hinduism like Shaivites or
Vaishnavites who exclusively worshipped Ganesha as the Supreme Truth. The
teachings of Ganapatya cult is found in the Prapanchasara Tantra, Mudgala
Purana, Ganesha Purana, Ganapati Upanishad and Ganesha Gita.
Ganapatya sect were a popular and powerful sect during the
medieval period but they lost relevance as Ganesha was incorporated into the
puja and rituals of all Hindus. Shaivites, Vaishnavites, and followers of
Goddess Shakti all worship Ganesha in the beginning of any puja, ritual or
auspicious occasion.
During their heights Ganapatya Sect had six different sub sects
worshipping different aspects of Ganapati. The six sub sects were:
Maha
Haridra
Svarna
Santana
Navanita
Unmatta – Ucchishta.
Unmatta – Ucchishta and another minor sect known as
Herambas were Tantric sects.
Today Ganapatya sect are found only in some regions and their numbers are far and few between.