This Purana is divided into , written as a dialogue between the sage Mudgala (after whom the text is named) and the seer Durvasa.
A central theme of the Mudgala Purana is the description of eight incarnations of Ganesha. Each incarnation was taken to defeat a specific demon ( asura ), which represents a negative human quality:
(Elephant Face): Defeated Lobhasura (Greed). He rides a mouse.
The Purana is traditionally organized into sections that detail the philosophical essence of Ganesha through his diverse forms, accompanied by rituals, hymns, and instructions for spiritual practice.
The text is essential for followers of the , who worship Ganesha as the Supreme Being ( Brahman ). It provides a theological framework where Ganesha is seen not just as the "remover of obstacles," but as the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of the universe.