In Hindu mythology, Ganesha’s mouse-like vehicle is called Mushika.
Mushika is traditionally described as Ganesha’s vahana, or animal mount. Although Ganesha is usually shown riding a very small mouse, some texts and artistic traditions portray Mushika as a rat. The vehicle symbolizes Ganesha’s ability to reach every place and enter even the smallest space.
The relationship also carries symbolic meaning. A mouse can represent restless desire, greed, or the mind’s tendency to dart from one thought to another. Ganesha mastering and riding Mushika therefore suggests control over these impulses. In temple sculpture, Mushika is often placed near Ganesha’s feet, sometimes facing the deity.
Mushika is not the same as Nandi, Shiva’s bull, or Garuda, Vishnu’s eagle-like mount. Regional traditions vary in the exact appearance and origin story of the animal, but Mushika is the standard name associated with Ganesha’s vehicle.