வலைப்பதிவுகள் — Parvati

Kasi Vishalakshi Devi, one of the most revered deities in Varanasi, holds immense spiritual significance. Known as the “Goddess with Wide Eyes,” she is a manifestation of Goddess Parvati. The Vishalakshi Temple in Varanasi is among the 51 Shakti Peethas and attracts millions of pilgrims each year. This sacred site is part of the revered triad of temples, which includes Kanchi Kamakshi, Madurai Meenakshi, and Kasi Vishalakshi.  Historical Significance  The origins of the Shakti Peethas are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Goddess Sati, the first consort of Lord Shiva and the daughter of Daksha Prajapati, self-immolated in protest...

Hindu mythology is vast and filled with divine tales of gods, goddesses, and their celestial offspring.   When we think of the divine family of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, we often remember their sons Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan (Kartikeya). However, very few are aware of their lesser-known daughter, Ashoka Sundari. Unlike her famous siblings, Ashoka Sundari’s story remains hidden in the pages of ancient texts, often overlooked in mainstream mythology.  What’s her birth story?  The story of Ashoka Sundari's birth is mentioned in the Padma Purana. According to mythology, Goddess Parvati, while spending time on Mount Kailash, felt lonely...

One of the most profound aspects of Hinduism is its reverence for the feminine divine. Hinduism has always celebrated God in female form, honoring the energy of the universe, or Shakti, through its manifestations as Goddesses. Central to this belief are Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati—representing strength, prosperity, and wisdom, respectively. These deities are not just symbolic but integral to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Hindu society, with festivals like Navratri, Vasant Panchami, and Dusshera dedicated to their worship.  The tradition of worshiping the feminine form of the Supreme Force is deeply rooted in Shaktism, a distinct sect of Hinduism...

Ardhanarishvara, a unique and profound concept in Hindu mythology, represents the union of the divine masculine and feminine energies. This composite form, combining Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizes the harmonious balance between male and female principles, transcending gender and celebrating the unity of opposites. Here, explore the story, symbolism and cultural significance of Ardhanarishvara form  The origin of Ardhanarishvara  The story of Ardhanarishvara finds its roots in Hindu mythology, particularly in the Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana. According to scriptures, Goddess Parvati, in her devotion to Shiva, yearned to experience complete oneness with her consort. She felt that despite...

The Somaskanda Murthy, a revered form of Lord Shiva, showcases a divine family trio that embodies profound spiritual significance. Among many forms of Lord Shiva, the Somaskanda Murthy holds a special place, celebrated for its portrayal of divine familial harmony. It captures the family emotion: Lord Shiva with his consort Parvati and their son Skanda. This depiction not only reflects love and parenthood but also the sacred unity within the divine family.   Historical and Cultural Significance  Somaskanda Murthy, a revered form of Lord Shiva, is typically depicted in a seated posture with Parvati and Skanda. This portrayal has been...