ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ

“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”

Parvati is the wife of Shiva, the destroyer. Parvati is the goddess of fertility, devotion, and love. She is also the goddess of divine strength and power. Parvati is an aspect of Shakti, a peaceful aspect. She is one of the Tridevi, along with Saraswati and Lakshmi. Parvati lives on Mt. Kailash with Shiva and her sons.

Family
Father: Himavat
Mother: Mena
Brothers: Mainaka, 99 others
Husband: Shiva
Sons: Ganesha, Kartikeya
Background
Once the devas prayed to the Goddess Shakti. The Goddess presented herself before them and said, “Oh devas, what is it that you want.”

The devas responded, “In the past, you incarnated on this Earth as Sati, the wife of Shiva. But Sati sacrificed herself in her father’s yagna and now she is no more. Lord Shiva has become very depressed. Please take birth on Earth and become the wife of Shiva.”

The Goddess assured, “I will surely take birth on Earth. Ever since I cast off my body as Sati, Lord Shiva has been very anguished. As Sanatkumara said, I will become the daughter of Mena and Himavat. I will perform a lot of penance and become the wife of Shiva.”

The devas rejoiced and went to the abode of Mena and Himavat. Himavat greeted them lovingly and then asked them why they had come. The devas told them about what had happened and instructed Mena and Himavat to perform penance to please the Goddess.

Mena and Himavat performed penance for 27 years. They would fast and worship clay idols of the Goddess. Finally, after 27 years, the Goddess Shakti was pleased and presented herself in front of Mena. “Mena, whatever it is that you desire, I will grant you,” the Goddess said.

Mena praised the Goddess. She then said, “Oh Goddess, if you desire to grant me a boon, I shall ask for one. First, let me have a hundred brave sons. Also, please incarnate on this Earth as my daughter. Please marry Shiva and satisfy the wishes of the devas.”

The Goddess Shakti granted the boons and then vanished. Mena joyfully went to her abode and told Himavat about the boon. Both of them were overjoyed.

Birth
Soon, a son named Mainaka was born to Mena and Himavat. After that, Mena became pregnant again. After ten months, at midnight, a daughter was born to Mena. This daughter was the incarnation of the Goddess. Himavat then came there with his chief priest and learned Brahmins. He was very happy to see his daughter. She was named Parvati. All the devas assembled and rejoiced.

Childhood
In her childhood, Parvati used to always play with her friends along the banks of the river Ganga. When she got older, Parvati got a proper education from a respectable teacher.

Once, Narada came to Himavat’s kingdom. Himavat asked him about the future of his daughter. Narada predicted that she will marry Shiva and live with him in Mount Kailash. He also told him that Parvati had been Sati in her past life. Himavat was overjoyed by hearing all of this.

Parvati once told her parents about a dream she had had. In the dream, a sage had told her to perform penance to please Shiva. Himavat also had a dream in which Parvati was worshipping Shiva.

Parvati’s Penance
After the death of Sati, Shiva decided to perform penance. He took a select few Ganas with him to Gangavatarana. On hearing that Shiva had come to Gangavatarana, Himavat decided to visit him. Soon, Himavat and Parvati started going every day to worship Shiva during his penance. Shiva soon accepted Parvati into his service. Every day, Parvati and her maids would come and show their devotion to Shiva in different ways.

Meanwhile, an Asura named Taraka came to power. He had a boon that only the son of Shiva could kill him. Taraka knew that Sati had just died, which meant that Shiva had no son. So, Taraka was invincible. Tarakasura started to invade the gods. He soon captured Swarga loka and threw the devas out of Swarga. The devas approached Brahma for advice. Brahma told them about the boon he had given to Tarakasura and said, “As you all know, Sati has been reborn as Parvati. Currently, Parvati is serving Shiva on the Himalayas during his meditation. You must get Shiva and Parvati to have a child. That is the only way in which Taraka can be killed.”

Indra decided to send Kama, the god of love, to create love between Shiva and Parvati. As soon as Kama reached the place where Shiva was meditating, flowers started to grow everywhere. Parvati then came there with two of her maids and brought flowers to offer to Shiva. Kama shot his flowery arrow of love at Shiva. When Shiva saw Parvati, he was enamored by her beauty. He started staring at her and starting undressing her. But, Shiva immediately came out of this lustful state and went back to being detached. Shiva looked around and saw Kama on his left side. He was enraged and opened his third eye. A great fire originated from his third eye and reduced Kama to ashes. Later, Shiva assured that Kama would be resuscitated.

Parvati was frightened by the incineration and hurriedly returned to Himavat’s palace. She became very unhappy because she couldn’t see Shiva anymore. Once Narada came to Himavat’s palace. When Himavat told him about Parvati’s state, he went to secretly talk to Parvati.

“Parvati, you worshipped Shiva. But because of the incident with Kama, he has become completely detached and left you. But if you perform penance, then Shiva will be pleased and accept you as his wife,” Narada advised. Narada then taught her the five-syllabled mantra of Shiva.

Parvati went to ask permission from her father, who reluctantly agreed. But her mother instantly said no. She didn’t want Parvati to leave. Thus Parvati also became known as Uma, which means “not allowed by mother”. But, seeing Parvati’s disappointment, Mena eventually gave in.

Thus, Parvati wore the clothes of an ordinary woman and went to do penance at Gangavatarana. Her penance was really severe and she survived on leaves. Soon, she even stopped eating leaves. Her penance went on for three thousand years. Many people came there and praised her. Once, Himavat, Mena, and Parvati’s 100 brothers all came to the Gangavatarana. They had come to try to persuade Parvati to stop her penance. Himavat, Mena, Mainaka, Mandara (another brother of Parvati) and others all tried, but all of them were unsuccessful in convincing her, so they had to leave.

Because of Parvati’s penance, the universe started becoming scorched. Indra and the devas decided to go to Brahma for help. Brahma took them to Vishnu, who said, “It is because of Parvati’s penance.” Vishnu, Brahma, and all the devas went to Shiva. After a lot of effort, they finally convinced Shiva to marry Parvati so that Tarakasura would be killed.

After Brahma, Vishnu, and the devas left, Shiva decided to test Parvati. He called the Saptarishis and told them to conduct a test of Parvati’s resolve. The seven sages arrived at the place where Parvati was immersed in penance.

“Oh daughter of the mountain, why do you perform such a penance. Who are you trying to appease?” the Saptarishis questioned.

“Oh great sages, listen to my purpose. On the advice of the celestial sage Narada, I am performing this penance to become the wife of Shiva. May Lord Shiva fulfill my desire,” Parvati answered.

“Oh Parvati, you do not know the ways of the sage Narada. He appears spiritual, but he is deceitful. You must know what Narada did to Daksha and his sons. He led them all away from his father and on a spiritual path. And after the death of Sati, Shiva will never marry. We will arrange your marriage with Vishnu, a husband fit for you. Please abandon this penance,” the Saptarishis insisted.

“Narada has led me to Shiva and I will not discard the advice of a celestial sage. If Shiva doesn’t marry me, I will remain unmarried,” Sati said.

On hearing this, the Saptarishis were impressed and blessed Parvati. They then went to Mount Kailash and told him what had happened. After hearing this, Shiva was impressed but still wanted to test Parvati. He took the form of an old ascetic Brahmin with matted hair and approached Parvati. Parvati respectfully worshipped the Brahmin and then asked why he had come.

“I am an aged Brahmin roaming about. But who are you?” the Brahmin asked.

“I am the daughter of Himavat. In my previous birth, I was Sati and I had cast off my body. Currently, I am doing penance to marry Shiva, but he is not pleased. I was just about to burn myself in a fire when you came,” Parvati said.

Saying this, Parvati tried to leap in the fire, but the Brahmin repeatedly stopped her. The Brahmin then inquired for details about her penance and goal. Parvati’s maid Vijayaa told him everything that had happened. The Brahmin then started heavily insulting Shiva. Parvati was enraged and countered back, praising Shiva and disproving the Brahmin. Suddenly, the Brahmin turned back into Shiva.

Shiva expressed his new desire to marry Parvati. Parvati was overjoyed and they decided to get married.

The Marriage
Parvati went home and told her parents about the news. A great celebration was held at Himavat’s city. In the midst of the celebration, Shiva took the form of a dancer. Parvati immediately recognized that he was Shiva. The dancer told Parvati to ask for a boon. Parvati asked the dancer to be her husband. Shiva granted the wish and disappeared.

Meanwhile, the devas were having a meeting in Swarga. They had realized that if Parvati married Lord Shiva, Himavat’s devotion will cause him to be transported to Shivaloka. This will be detrimental for Earth. To solve this issue, they approached their guru Brihaspati, who advised them to seek Brahma’s help. Lord Brahma said that they must pray to Lord Shiva to solve this issue.

Accordingly, the gods went to Shiva for help. Shiva said, “I shall go to Himavat’s city and rebuke myself. I will then send the Saptarishis to go convince Himavat and Mena of the marriage. Thus, they will accept the marriage, but with a little hesitation. Because of this hesitation, Himavat won’t reach Shivaloka.”

Shiva took the form of a Vaishnava devotee and reached Himavat’s city. He went to Himavat’s court and greatly criticized Shiva. Himavat and Menu were discouraged and cancelled the marriage. But then the Saptarishis arrived and convinced them to accept the marriage. Thus, Himavat accepted the marriage and sent the letter of betrothal to Shiva. A huge marriage procession formed, and it included the devas, Gandharvas, Apsaras, rishis, mountains, and everyone else.

When the marriage procession approached Himavat’s palace, Mena became curious to see Shiva because she had never seen him before. She stood on the terrace and told Narada to show her Shiva. Mena first mistook Vasu, the king of the Vasus, for Shiva. She then mistook Manigriva, the son of Kubera, for Shiva. Mena then mistook Agni, Yama, Nirrti, Vayu, Kubera, Indra, Chandra, Surya, Brihaspati, Brahma and Vishnu for Shiva, but each time Narada said no. Finally, when Shiva arrived, Narada pointed her out. She was horrified at his appearance. He had snakes around his neck and body, and ash smeared on his body. She screamed, “Kill me! I cannot let my daughter marry Shiva.” Her maids tried to calm her down, but she wouldn’t listen and soon fainted.

When Mena awakened, she started cursing everyone, including Shiva. She could not bare to see her daughter marry Shiva. Narada, Brahma, the devas, Himavat, Parvati, the Siddhas, and the 4 Kumaras all tried to calm her down, but she wouldn’t listen. Vishnu then arrived and told her about Shiva’s greatness. Finally, she agreed to the marriage if Shiva would take a more handsome form.

Narada told Shiva to take a more handsome form. Shiva agreed. When Mena saw Shiva in his handsome form, she was awed and said, “O Lord. Forgive me. Please marry my daughter.” The marriage rites then commenced and ended successfully. Happiness crowded the environment.

During the marriage, upon Rati’s begging, Shiva joyously resuscitated Kama. After many days, the wedding was complete and Shiva and Parvati went to Mount Kailash.

Birth of Kartikeya
The devas were waiting impatiently for the birth of a son to Parvati from the seed Kama had made since they wanted to be liberated from the rule of Tarakasura.

However Shiva did not want to have a child, so he did not let the seed produce a child. The threat of Tarakasura was still going on so Vishnu went to tell Shiva. When Shiva got up to greet Vishnu the seed fell to the ground.

However, Agni dev turned into a bird and swallowed the seed before it could touch the ground. However, the seed burned him so much, he went to Indra as fast as he could. Indra told him to deposit the seed in the Ganga river so the seed would not remain as burning.

Agni did as per Indra’s advice. The devi Ganga then could not bear the seed so she deposited it near her bank. All of a sudden the wound turned into a beautiful boy. When this happened the Krittikas were passing by to take a bath in the Ganga river.

When they saw the boy they were attracted to him. They started caring for him. The boy even sprouted six heads.

Meanwhile, Shiva and Parvati wondered what had happened to the seed. Shiva sent his ganas to search for the boy. After the ganas found the seed as a boy they told the Krittikas to give them the boy. The Krittikas agreed. The shivaganas then went back to Shiva and Parvati. Parvati put the boy (their son) in her lap. Thus, Kartikeya became the son of Parvati and Shiva.

Birth of Ganesha
One day, at the home of Shiva and Parvati on Mount Kailash, Parvati went to take a bath. She kept Nandi as guard and told him to let nobody in. She then went inside to take a bath. After a while, Shiva arrived at the house. Nandi let him in since it was Shiva’s house. When Parvati saw Shiva, she got annoyed. Nandi had disobeyed her.

She wanted a gana who would listen to only her and be loyal to only her. She talked to her friends about this. One of them had an idea. She said,”Why don’t you create a gana that will only listen to you.” Parvati replied,”Good idea!” She created a statue of a valiant human boy out of saffron. After uttering a few incantations, the statue became alive. She decked the boy with ornaments. She then told him to stand guard. He followed his command. After a while, Shiva came to enter the house. The boy did not let Shiva enter. Shiva said,”You know who I am! Let me in!” The boy refused and hit Shiva with his staff. Shiva approached his ganas and said,”Bring this boy to me.”

Then ganas approached the boy and said,”Who are you.” The boy replied,”I am Parvati’s son.” The ganas became doubtful. Parvati was Shiva’s wife. They didn’t know if they should attack him or not. They went back to Shiva and informed him that the boy was Parvati’s son. Shiva told them to attack him. The ganas came back and attacked. The boy defeated most of them along with Nandi and the rest ran back to Shiva.

When Brahma, Vishnu and Indra heard about this, they approached Shiva. Shiva told Brahma to go with some sages and try to reason with the boy. When the sages approached, the boy immediately attacked them. Brahma and the sages ran back to Shiva.

When they told Shiva what had happened, Shiva became furious. He told Kartikeya, his son, and Indra to lead the devaganas and devas to battle against the boy. Indra and the devas with Kartikeya and the devaganas and shivganas furiously attacked the boy. When Parvati heard about this, she sent two Shaktis named Kali and Durga to attack the devas. The entire army was routed by Kali and Durga. The devas, Kartikeya, and the ganas retreated and ran to Shiva. Shiva got even more angry. He himself went to battle with the boy along with Vishnu, Brahma, Kartikeya, Indra and the devas, the devaganas, the shivaganas and Nandi.

Shiva and Vishnu watched as the boy defeated everyone else. They declared that the only way to kill the boy would be to use trickery. Vishnu approached the boy on Garuda. The boy threw his mace. Vishnu deflected the mace with his own mace. Shiva attacked the boy from his back with is trident, but the boy punched the trident out of Shiva’s hand. Shiva took up his bow, but it was destroyed by the boy’s mace. Vishnu then cut the boy’s mace in half with his Sudarshan Chakra. The boy threw the fragment of the mace at Vishnu, but Garuda caught the fragment in his beak. The boy picked up his staff to hit Vishnu. Immediately Shiva threw his trident at the boy, thus killing the boy.

The devas and ganas became really happy. When Parvati got to know about her son’s death she became really angry. She summoned thousands of Shaktis and instructed them to attack the devas and ganas. The Shaktis started to eliminate devas and ganas. Vishnu and Brahma ran to Parvati. They pleaded her to stop the Shaktis. Parvati made the Shaktis disappear. She told Brahma and Vishnu to make her son alive. Brahma and Vishnu went to Shiva. Shiva instructed them to go north and bring the head of the first animal they found. They found an elephant. They brought the head back and Brahma fitted the head with the body. The boy immediately sat up.

They brought the boy to Parvati. Shiva apologized and said,”You shall be called Ganesha. You will be worshipped forever and at the begginning of any ritual, you shall be invoked. You will also be called Vigneshwara, remover of obstacles.” Gandharvas showered flowers on Ganesha. Vishnu and Brahma also blessed Ganesha.

Parvati is Born as a Fisherman
One day, Shiva started to tell Parvati about Brahmadayan (the mysteries of the universe). He kept explaining for years and Parvati listened with attention. But once, just for a moment, Parvati turned to look at the scene. Shiva saw this and he got really mad.

“Ungrateful women. Do you know how precious this knowledge is. You shall be born as a fisherman so you can learn about hardwork,” Shiva roared.

Parvati immediately disappeared. Instantly, Shiva regretted his decision. Parvati was born as a baby girl under a tree. The chief of the fisherman clan Paravar found her. He decided to take her as his daughter and named her Parvati.

Parvati grew up to a lovely girl and all the fisherman adored her. She mastered the art of fishing at a young age.

Meanwhile, Shiva was unable to stand being without Parvati anymore. He came into a state of despair. When Nandi saw this, he asked, “Lord, why don’t you just bring Goddess Parvati.”

“Nandi, I can’t. As per the laws of the world, she will have to marry a fisherman,” Shiva said in sadness.

Nandi was determined to bring Parvati back. He turned into a shark and swam to the coast near the Paravar clan. For the next few days, he wrecked the Paravar ships.

The Paravar chief announced, “Whoever can capture this shark will marry my daughter.”

Many fisherman tried, but they all failed. The chief became distraught and prayed to Lord Shiva. Shiva disguised himself as a young fisherman and came there.

“I have heard that a shark is wrecking your ships. I have come to capture the shark,” the young fisherman said.

The young fisherman took a net and caught the shark. Nandi realized it was Lord Shiva and let himself be dragged onto the shore. All the Paravar fisherman rejoiced. The young fisherman earned Parvati’s hand in marriage. After the wedding, Shiva and Nandi resumed their true forms and took Parvati back to Kailash. At Mt. Kailash, Parvati became her true self again.

Parvati as Kamakshi
Once, Parvati playfully behind her husband Shiva and closed his eyes. As a result, the entire world lost its light and life. Shiva was really angry at Parvati and told her to practice austerities as compensation. Parvati went to Kanchipuram and began meditating on a Linga. To test her devotion, Shiva sent a flood to wash away the Linga. Parvati saved it and stayed with it as Kamakshi. Soon, the world’s light and life returned and Parvati could return to Mt. Kailash.

 

 

 

 

Goddess Parvati or Shakti
The Mother Goddess of Hindu Mythology
Parvati is the daughter of the king of Parvatas, Himavan and the consort of Lord Shiva. She is also called Shakti, the mother of the universe, and variously known as Loka-Mata, Brahma-Vidya, Shivajnana-Pradayini, Shivaduti, Shivaradhya, Shivamurti, and Shivankari. Her popular names include Amba, Ambika, Gauri, Durga, Kali, Rajeshwari, Sati, ​and Tripurasundari.

The Story of Sati as Parvati
Parvati’s tale is told in detail in the Maheshwara Kanda of the Skanda Purana. Sati, the daughter of Daksha Prajapati, the son of Brahma, was wedded to Lord Shiva. Daksha did not like his son-in-law because of his queer form, strange manners, and peculiar habits. Daksha performed a ceremonial sacrifice but did not invite his daughter and son-in-law. Sati felt insulted and went to her father and questioned him only to get an unpleasant reply. Sati got enraged and did not want any more to be called his daughter. She preferred to offer her body to the fire and be reborn as Parvati to marry Shiva. She created fire through her Yoga power and destroyed herself in that yogagni. Lord Shiva sent his messenger Virabhadra to stop the sacrifice and drove away all the Gods who assembled there. The head of Daksha was cut off at the request of Brahma, thrown into the fire, and replaced with that of a goat.

How Shiva Married Parvati
Lord Shiva resorted to the Himalayas for austerities. The destructive demon Tarakasura won a boon from Lord Brahma that he should die only at the hands of the son of Shiva and Parvati. Therefore, the Gods requested Himavan to have Sati as his daughter. Himavan agreed and Sati was born as Parvati. She served Lord Shiva during his penance and worshiped him. Lord Shiva married Parvati.

Ardhanishwara and the Reunion of Shiva & Parvati
The celestial sage Narada proceeded to Kailash in the Himalayas and saw Shiva and Parvati with one body, half male, half female – the Ardhanarishwara. Ardhanarishwara is the androgynous form of God with Shiva (purusha) and Shakti (prakriti) conjoined in one, indicating the complementary nature of the sexes. Narada saw them playing a game of dice. Lord Shiva said he won the game. Parvati said that she was victorious. There was a quarrel. Shiva left Parvati and went to practice austerities. Parvati assumed the form of a huntress and met Shiva. Shiva fell in love with the huntress. He went with her to her father to get his consent for the marriage. Narada informed Lord Shiva that the huntress was none other than Parvati. Narada told Parvati to apologize to her Lord and they were reunited.

How Parvati Became Kamakshi
One day, Parvati came from behind Lord Shiva and closed his eyes. The whole universe missed a heartbeat – lost life and light. In return, Shiva asked Parvati to practice austerities as a corrective measure. She proceeded to Kanchipuram for rigorous penance. Shiva created a flood and the Linga which Parvati was worshiping was about to be washed away. She embraced the Linga and it remained there as Ekambareshwara while Parvati stayed with it as Kamakshi and saved the world.

How Parvati Became Gauri
Parvati had dark skin. One day, Lord Shiva playfully referred to her dark color and she was hurt by his remark. She went to the Himalayas to perform austerities. She attained a pale complexion and came to be known as Gauri, or the fair one. Gauri joined Shiva as Ardhanarishwara by the grace of Brahma.

Parvati as Shakti – Mother of the Universe
Parvati ever dwells with Shiva as his Shakti, which literally means ‘power.’ She sheds wisdom and grace on her devotees and makes them attain union with her Lord. The Shakti cult is the conception of God as the Universal Mother. Shakti is spoken of as Mother because that is the aspect of the Supreme in which she is regarded as the sustainer of the universe.

Shakti in the Scriptures
Hinduism lays a lot of emphasis on the motherhood of God or Devi. The Devi-Shukta appears in the 10th mandala of the Rig-Veda. Bak, the daughter of sage Maharshi Ambrin reveals this in the Vedic hymn addressed to the Divine Mother, where she speaks of her realization of the Goddess as the Mother, who pervades the whole universe. The very first verse of Kalidasa’s Raghuvamsa says that Shakti and Shiva stand to each other in the same relationship as the word and its meaning. This is also emphasized by Sri Shankaracharya in the first verse of Saundarya Lahari.

Shiva & Shakti are One
Shiva and Shakti are essentially one. Just as heat and fire, Shakti and Shiva are inseparable and cannot do without each other. Shakti is like the snake in motion. Shiva is like the motionless snake. If Shiva is the calm sea, Shakti is the ocean full of waves. While Shiva is the transcendental Supreme Being, Shakti is the manifested, immanent aspect of the Supreme.

 

 

Goddess Parvati – Hindu Goddesses and Deities
Parvati is the gentle and nurturing aspect of Hindu goddess Shakti. She is the Hindu goddess of love, fertility and devotion. Also, She is the mother goddess in Hinduism and source of power and beauty. She is the perfect incarnation of Adi Para Sakthi. She has many attributes and aspects, each of her aspects is expressed with a different name, giving her over 108 names in regional Hindu mythologies of India. Along with Lakshmi (goddess of wealth and prosperity) and Saraswati (goddess of knowledge and learning), she forms the trinity of Hindu goddesses same as god trinity of Shiva Vishnu and Brahma.

Parvata is one of the Sanskrit words for “mountain”; “Parvati” derives her name from being the daughter of king Himavan (also called Himavat, Parvat) and mother Mena. King Parvat is considered lord of the mountains and the personification of the Himalayas; Parvati implies “she of the mountain”.

FAMILY:

Parvati is the divine consort of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva who is known as the destroyer, recycler and regenerator of universe and all life. She is the daughter of mountain king Parvat and mother Mena. She is the second consort of Lord Shiva after the death of his first wife Sati. She is not just a loving wife but also a devoted mother to Lord Kartikeya and Lord Ganesha. Her elder sister is goddess Ganges. Some communities also believe her to be the adopted sister of Vishnu.

ICONOGRAPHY:

Parvati, the gentle aspect of Devi Shakti, is usually represented as fair, beautiful and benevolent. She typically wears a red dress (often a sari), and may have a head-band. When depicted alongside Shiva, she generally appears with two arms, but when alone, she may be depicted having four. These hands may hold conch, crown, mirror, rosary, bell, dish, farming tool such as goad, sugarcane stalk, or flowers such as lotus. One of her arms in front may be in the Abhaya mudra (hand gesture for ‘fear not’), one of her children, typically Ganesha, is on her knee, while her elder son Skanda may be playing near her in her watch. In ancient temples, Parvati’s sculpture is often depicted near a calf or cow – a source of food. Bronze has been the chief metal for her sculpture, while stone is next most common material.

A common symbolism for her and her husband Shiva is in the form of yoni and linga respectively. In ancient literature, yoni means womb and place of gestation, the yoni-linga metaphor represents “origin, source or regenerative power”. The linga-yoni icon is widespread, found in Shaivite Hindu temples of South Asia and Southeast Asia. Often called Shivalinga, it almost always has both linga and the yoni. The icon represents the interdependence and union of feminine and masculine energies in recreation and regeneration of all life. In some temples and arts, the iconographic representation of sexuality, fertility and energies of Parvati and Shiva, is more explicit, where they are shown in various stages of their sexual form and union.

In some iconography Parvati’s hands may symbolically express many mudras (symbolic hand gestures). For example, Kataka — representing fascination and enchantment, Hirana — representing the antelope, the symbolism for nature and the elusive, Tarjani by the left hand — representing gesture of menace, and Chandrakal — representing the moon, a symbol of intelligence. Kataka is expressed by hands closer to the devotee, Tarjani mudra with the left hand but far from devotee.

If Parvati is depicted with two hands, Kataka mudra — also called Katyavalambita or Katisamsthita hasta — is common, as well as Abhaya (fearlessness, fear not) and Varada (beneficence) are representational in Parvati’s iconography. Parvati’s right hand in Abhaya mudra symbolizes “do not fear anyone or anything”, while her Varada mudra symbolizes “wish fulfilling”. In Indian dance, Parvatimudra is dedicated to her, symbolizing divine mother. It is a joint hand gesture, and is one of sixteen Deva Hastas, denoting most important deities described in Abhinaya Darpana. The hands mimic motherly gesture, and when included in a dance, the dancer symbolically expresses Parvati. Alternatively, if both hands of the dancer are in Ardhachandra mudra, it symbolizes an alternate aspect of Parvati.

Parvati is sometimes shown with golden or yellow colour skin, particularly as goddess Gauri, symbolizing her as the goddess of ripened harvests.

In some manifestations, particularly as angry, ferocious aspects of Shakti such as Durga or Kali, she has eight or ten arms, and is astride on a tiger or lion. In benevolent manifestation such as Kamakshi or Meenakshi, a parrot sits near her right shoulder symbolizing cheerful love talk, seeds and fertility. Parrot is found with Parvati’s form as Kamakshi – the goddess of love, as well as Kama – the cupid god of desire who shoots arrows to trigger infatuation. A crescent moon is sometimes included near the head of Parvati particularly the Kamakshi icons, for her being half of Shiva. In South Indian legends, her association with parrot began when she won a bet with her husband and asked for his loin cloth as victory payment; Shiva keeps his word but first transforms her into a parrot. She flies off and takes refuge in the mountain ranges of south India, appearing as Meenakshi (also spelled Minakshi).

FESTIVALS AND VRATS:

Festivals associated with Goddesses Parvati are:

The Gowri Habba, or Gauri Festival, is celebrated on the seventh, eighth, ninth of Bhadrapada (Shukla paksha). Parvati is worshipped as the goddess of harvest and protectress of women. Her festival, chiefly observed by women, is closely associated with the festival of her son Ganesha (Ganesh Chaturthi). The festival is popular in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
In Rajasthan, Gauri is worshipped during the Gangaur festival, which commences on the first day of Chaitra, just the day following Holi. This festival continues for a period of 18 days. Images of Issar and Gauri are made from clay and worshipped during the festival.
Another popular festival in reverence of Parvati is Navratri, in which all her manifestations are worshiped over nine days. Popular in eastern India, particularly in Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand and Assam, as well as several other parts of India such as Gujarat, this is associated with Durga, with her nine forms i.e. Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandmata, Katyani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, Siddhidaatri.
The Gauri tritiya is celebrated from Chaitra shukla third to Vaishakha shukla third. It is said that Parvati spends a month at her parent’s home at this time. This festival is popular in Maharashtra, less observed in North India and is virtually unheard of in Bengal. This is a festival mostly conducted by married women and is somewhat similar to the Indian haldi-kumkum ceremony, where girls and women are invited to households and gifted flowers and fruits, coconuts, small gifts and packets of turmeric and saffron. The unwidowed women of the household erect a series of platforms in a pyramidal shape with the image of the goddess at the top and collection of ornaments, images of other Hindu deities, pictures, shells etc. below. At night, prayers are held by singing and dancing.
Teej is a significant festival for Hindu women, particularly in northern and western states of India. Parvati is the primary deity of the festival, and it ritually celebrates married life and family ties. It also celebrates the monsoon. The festival is marked with swings hung from trees, girls playing on these swings typically in green dress (seasonal color of crop planting season), while singing regional songs. Historically, unmarried maidens prayed to Parvati for a good mate, while married women prayed for the well being of their husbands and visited their relatives. In Nepal, Teej is a three-day festival marked with visits to Shiva-Parvati temples and offerings to linga. Teej is celebrated as Teeyan in Punjab.
MANTRA:

Swayamvara parvathi Moola Manthra:

 

|| Om Hreem Yogini Yogini Yogeswari Yoga Bhayankari Sakala Sthavara

Jangamasya Mukha Hrudayam Mama Vasam Akarsha Akarshaya Namaha ||

 

INCARNATIONS AND SWAROOP:

Goddesses Parvati is the source of all forms of goddesses. She is worshiped as one with many forms and name. Her different mood brings different forms or incarnation. There are ten aspects of Goddess Parvati and these are known to be a representation of her power and knowledge. All these ten aspects are jointly known as Dasamahavidyas and each one of them is a form that she undertook to destroy evil and bless her worshippers.

Kali is the first representation of Goddess Parvati and she was known as the destroyer (also known as the Goddess of time)
Tara is known as the source from which the universe evolves as she is known to represent the power of the golden embryo (also represent Boundless space or void
Sodasi is the third representation of Goddess Parvati and is known to represent perfection and fullness. The literal meaning of the term “Sodasi” is one who is sixteen years of age.
The forces of the material world are represented by Vidya Bhuvanevari
Desires and temptations that often lead to destruction and death are represented by the fifth form of Goddess Parvati known as Bhairavi.
Vidya Chinnamasta is the sixth form of Goddess Parvati and is known to represent the created world in a continuous cycle of creation and destruction. She is often shown as holding her own severed head and drinking blood from it.
Destroying the world by fire is the seventh form of Goddess Parvati and is known as Dhumavati. After the world is destroyed by fire only the smoke and ashes will remain
Vidya Bagala is the eight form of the Goddess and is known to represent cruelty, hatred and jealousy. These are the negative aspects of any individual.
The ninth form of Goddess Parvati is Matangi, the power of domination.
Vidya Kamala (Goddess Lakshmi) is said to be the Goddess of fortune.
All the ten forms of Goddess Parvati are known to represent the loving and aggressive nature of the Goddess. She is also known as the Goddess of power.

TEMPLES:

There are many famous temples for Goddess Parvati in India and each one of them has a legendary story associated with it. Each of these temples were constructed and dedicated to the Goddess as a mark of reverence. Depending on where the temple is situated the architecture and sculptures that are installed will differ.

Here is a list of some of famous temples that are dedicated to Goddess Parvati:

ॐ The Parvati temple in Khajuraho, Madya Pradesh ॐ

ॐ Garjia Devi Temple, Uttarakhand ॐ

ॐ Sri Garbharakshambikai temple, Thirukarugavur, Thanjavur ॐ

ॐ Ambaji temple at Ambaji, Gujarat ॐ

ॐ Tiruvairanikulam Sri Parvati temple, Aluva ॐ

ॐ Meenakshi temple at Madurai ॐ

ॐ Visalakshi temple at Banaras, Uttar Pradesh ॐ

ॐ Kamakshi Amman temple at Kanchipuram ॐ

ॐ Akilandeswari temple at Thiruvanaikaval ॐ

ॐ Attukal Temple situated in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala ॐ

 

Millions of devotees from all over India and abroad visit these famous temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati each year and seek her blessing.

 

 

 

Hindu Goddess Parvati
Parvati is one of the main deities of Hinduism and is often depicted as the other half and feminine side of God/Lord Shiva. She is the goddess of fertility, beauty, marriage, the arts, and more, and is recognized as benevolent and loving. Parvati is usually thought to be synonymous with and a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Shakti, mother of the universe. Shakti has over 100 different names and manifestations, which include Parvati, while Parvati herself has many different aspects and manifestations. “Parvati” comes from the Sanskrit word for “daughter of the mountain,” as she was the daughter of Himavan/Himalaya a mountain king and personification of the Himalayan Mountains.

Parvati is considered Shakti’s most nurturing aspect. However, Parvati is depicted as having both negative and positive aspects/manifestations, as required of her. The story of Parvati comes from the Shiva Purana, with narration by Vyasa, and the Hamsa Upanishad, among many other Sanskrit texts about Hindu deities. In addition, many Hindu books and poems have featured her, which have been passed down through the ages. She is heavily associated with the Hindu Lord Shiva, her husband, and their sons. Parvati has many festivals and temples dedicated to her revolving around harvests, family, and marriage, etc.

Parvati’s Names and Incarnations
Often called “Parvati Mata,” or “Uma,” Parvati has many different names and aspects. Before she was Parvati, she was a human woman form named “Sati” or “Dakshayani,” and the daughter of Daksha Prajapati, a son of Brahma. Sati loved and married Lord Shiva, despite the fact that her father did not like him. Sati ended her life through fire after bearing an insult to Shiva via her father, in order to later be reborn and marry Shiva again. Shiva tried to stop her when he caught word of her plan to sacrifice herself, but he was too late.

Lord Shiva’s Family
Lord Shiva is one of the three main and most important Hindu deities, also known as the “holy trinity.” The holy trinity in Hinduism is also comprised of Brahma and Vishnu. Shiva’s origin is a mystery, and many Hindus believe he always existed and that he may have even created the other two main creation gods. As such, Shiva is regarded as the oldest deity in Hinduism and the father of the universe. His role in the universe is as the “destroyer,” because he has the responsibility of destroying the universe to allow room for a new one to be built. Shiva is largely associated with creation, destruction, protection, and time. He is portrayed as a more serious, introspective deity, who often uses meditation to find happiness and peace. In addition, Shiva notably has a dark side.

Shiva married Sati, as mentioned above, and then during her incarnation as Parvati, he married her again. Shiva is often depicted as sitting on a tiger skin with Parvati and their two sons at their sides. Their sons Kartikeya and Ganesha are the most well-known, as they serve important purposes in the Hindu pantheon, but accounts tell of other offspring by Shiva and Parvati as well. Shiva is typically shown in artistic depictions holding a trident and wearing a cobra and beads around his neck.

 

 

 

Story of How Parvati Was Born

Goddess Parvati Story
Parvati or Gauri is one of the Supreme Hindu Goddesses and is known as Adi Parashakti. Along with Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Parvati forms the trinity of Hindu Goddesses (Tridevi). The post shares with you Goddess Parvati Story.

Goddess Parvati has been described to have many attributes and aspects. She is the goddess of divine strength and power. She is also the Hindu Goddess of love, marriage, devotion, fertility, children, and beauty.

Goddess Parvati is the consort of Lord Shiva. She is the mother of Hindu deities such as Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Parvati was born to the mountain king Himavan and queen Mena.

Along with Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati is the central deity in the Shaiva sect of Hinduism. According to the Puranas, Goddess Parvati has been referred to as the sister of the preserver God Vishnu.

She is also recognized as one of the five equivalent deities which are worshiped in the Panchayatana Puja of the Smarta Tradition in the Hinduism.

Goddess Parvati is described to be the creative energy and power of Lord Shiva. She is extensively found in ancient Indian literature. Many Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati are found in South Asia as well as in Southeast Asia.

The name “Parvati” is derived from the Sanskrit word Parvata, which means “mountain.” Actually, Goddess Parvati was the daughter of King Himavan (also known as Himavat) who is regarded as the lord of the mountains. So, Parvati implies that “she is the daughter of the mountains.”

In fact, Goddess Parvati has been called by different names in the Hindu literature. Some of the other names associated with Goddess Parvati are Shailaja, Shailaputri, Haimavathi, Devi Maheshwari, and Girija.

Devi Parvati is even known as Narayani since she is the sister of Lord Narayana. Moreover, the Lalita Sahasranama has a list of 1000 names of Parvati (as Lalita).

She is also known as Ambika, Bhavani, Durga, Maheshwari, Shakti, Bhairavi, Mataji, Uma, and Aparna. Parvati is the Goddess of love and devotion and is known as Kamakshi. She is even the Goddess of food and nourishment and is known as Annapurna.

She is the golden one and is known as Gauri. She is the Goddess who destroys evil and is known as Kali. Parvati has been referred to as the embodiment of divine knowledge and even as the mother of the world who takes the form of Shakti or the essential power of the Supreme Brahman.

In fact, the legends, characteristics, and symbolism of Parvati evolved over time. In one aspect, she has been described as Uma, Haimavati, and Ambika, while her other aspect is more ferocious and destructive in the form of Kali, Gauri, and Nirriti.

The Hindu scriptures describe Parvati as the gentle aspect of Devi Shakti. Moreover, Parvati is represented as fair, benevolent, and beautiful. She is portrayed as wearing a red Sari. Parvati is depicted alongside Shiva. She is usually shown with two arms. However, sometimes, she is depicted as having four arms. She is sometimes shown as having golden or yellow colored skin.

She holds a trident, rosary, bell, goad, sugarcane stalk, or flowers. One of her arms is shown in Abhaya Mudra. Lord Ganesha sits on her knees, while Skanda (Kartikeya) stands or plays near her.

In the Hindu tradition, Parvati and Shiva are symbolized in the form of yoni and lingam respectively. In fact, the yoni-lingam metaphor represents origin or regenerative power.

The yoni-lingam icon is widespread in Shaivite Hindu temples. The yoni-lingam representation is called as Shivalinga. It shows the union of feminine and masculine energies that is responsible for recreation and regeneration of all life.

Sometimes Parvati is depicted in the angry and ferocious form of Shakti such as Kali. In this form, Parvati has eight or ten arms. She is depicted as wearing a garland of severed heads and a skirt of disembodied hands.

However, Parvati also has a benevolent manifestation in the form of Kamakshi or Meenakshi. In this form, a parrot sits near her right shoulder, which symbolizes cheerfulness, love, and fertility.

As per Hindu mythology, Parvati is the power of Lord Shiva. She has nurturing and benevolent aspects, as well as she possesses destructive and ferocious aspects. So, she adapts to circumstances in her role as the Universal Mother. In Mahakali form, she destroys evil, and in the Annapurna form, she feeds with food and abundance.

So, although Parvati was born as a human, she realized her true power and awakened the “Adishakti” form in herself, becoming a Goddess that is venerated by the Trimurti as well as the rest of the entire universe.

According to the Linga Purana, Parvati takes the form of Kali to destroy a demon named Daruk. In Skanda Purana, Parvati takes the form of a warrior Goddess and kills the buffalo-demon Durg. In this form, Parvati is known as Durga.

According to the Devi Bhagwata Purana, Goddess Parvati has many forms and names.

For example:

As Durga, she killed the demon Durgamasur
As Kali, she represents raw power and courage
As Chandi, Parvati slew the demon Mahisasura
As Das Mahavidyas, Parvati represents the ten aspects of Shakti
The 52 Shakti Peethas represents the expansions of Goddess Parvati
Navdurga are the nine forms of Goddess Parvati
As Meenakshi, Parvati is the goddess that has eyes shaped like a fish
As Kamakshi, she is the goddess of love and devotion
Lalita who is the Goddess of the universe is a form of Devi Parvati
As Annapurna, Parvati is the Goddess of food and abundance
Moreover, there are many other forms of Goddess Parvati
Stories of Goddess Parvati
Here, you will get to know some of the most popular stories of Goddess Parvati.

Let’s get started.

Here we share with you the story of Sati who was reborn as Parvati:

According to the Puranas, Devi Sati was married to Lord Shiva against her father’s Daksha’s wishes. There was an immense conflict between Daksha and Lord Shiva.

Once, Daksha organized a Yagna (fire-sacrifice). However, Daksha did not invite Lord Shiva. Moreover, Daksha insulted Lord Shiva in front of Sati when she came on her own to attend the Yagna.

Sati was taken aback by this behavior of her father Daksha so much so that she immolated herself at the ceremony.

The death of Sati shocked Lord Shiva, and he was so grief-stricken that he retired from the worldly affairs and isolated himself in the mountains, austerity, and meditation.

Sati was later reborn as Parvati as the daughter of Himavat and Mainavati. She was named as Parvati (from the mountains) after her father Himavat who was the King of the Mountains known as King Parvat.

Parvati resolved to marry Lord Shiva. Her parents discouraged her, but she was not deterred and pursued to marry Lord Shiva.

Indra sends the God of desire and erotic love, God Kama, to awaken Lord Shiva from his state of meditation. The Kama shot an arrow of desire on Lord Shiva. However, Lord Shiva opened his third eye and burned the Kama to ashes.

Parvati did not lose her hope to win over Lord Shiva. She went to the Himalayas and performed immense tapas to draw the attention of Lord Shiva.

Lord Shiva meets Parvati is a disguise and tries to discourage her by telling his weaknesses and personality problems. However, Parvati paid no attention and insisted on her resolve.

Finally, Lord Shiva accepted Parvati, and they get married. After the marriage, Parvati and Lord Shiva moved to Mount Kailash. Lord Kartikeya (also known as Murugan or Skanda) and Ganesha are born to them.

Apart from this main story, there are other alternate versions (Hindu legends) about the birth of Parvati and her marriage to Lord Shiva.

For example: According to Shiva Purana, Mount Himalaya and his wife Mena appeased Goddess Adi Parashakti. She was pleased with them and was born as their daughter in the form of Parvati.

In the Shakta texts, Parvati even transcends Lord Shiva and is identified as the Supreme Being. She blesses devotees with marital felicity. She even symbolizes different virtues such as marital felicity, fertility, devotion to the spouse, and power.

Parvati is the household ideal and even the ascetic ideal. In the Hindu scriptures, Parvati is portrayed as the ideal householder who is keen on nurturing worldly life and society.

She is the harmonizing force between ascetics and a householder. Parvati even calms Lord Shiva during his Tandava dance. Moreover, Parvati is portrayed as the ideal wife, householder, and mother in the Hindu legends.

Parvati and Shiva are portrayed as the “ideal couple” and are represented as “Ardhanarisvara.” She even takes an interest in worldly affairs, beyond her husband and family.

In the Shiva Purana, there is a story related to Parvati that narrates the birth of Lord Ganesh. Once, Parvati was taking a bath. There were no attendants to guard her. So, she created an image of a boy with the turmeric paste and infused life into it. Thus Ganesha was born.

Parvati ordered Ganesha to be the guard and not to allow anybody to enter the house. Ganesha followed his mother’s orders and guarded the house.

After some time, Lord Shiva returned. He tried to enter the house but was stopped by Ganesh. There was a fierce battle between Lord Shiva and Ganesh. Finally, Lord Shiva severed Ganesha’s head with his trident.

When Parvati came out and saw the lifeless body of Ganesh, she was immensely angry with Lord Shiva. She ordered Lord Shiva to restore Ganesha’s life at once. Lord Shiva attached an elephant head to Ganesha’s body and gave rise to the elephant-headed deity that we know as Lord Ganesh. This story reveals Parvati’s motherhood and love for Ganesh.

 

 

Goddess Parvati – The Most Complex Goddess in the Hindu Pantheon

When she took birth as the daughter of Parvataraja, she danced in the Himalayas, with the grace of a peacock. She is luminous like the Sun. Just as the Sun dispels darkness, the moment She enters the hearts of Her devotees, she dispels darkness. She resides in us as Antaryami. If the hearts of Her devotees can be compared to soft-petalled lotuses, she is like a swan that resides in these lotuses. She is the embodiment of the Vedas. She is responsible for Creation, Protection and Destruction.

Parvati is the most complex of all goddesses in the Hindu pantheon. She mirrors the various roles of Mahadeva, the Supreme Purusha. As Prakriti, Devi balances the male aspect addressed as Purusha. As Lord Shiva’s consort, she is Shakti. She is the one who gives life energy or Shakti to all beings and without her, all beings are inert. Parvati is Shakti herself, who actually lives in all beings in the form of power. Without power, one can do nothing, including yoga. Being the physical manifestation of Goddess Devi, Parvati is the Goddess of Power. Shakti is needed by all beings, whether the Trimurti, the devas, humans, animals, or even plants. Parvati is the provider of shakti. Without her, life is completely inert. This power is required to see, to hear, to feel, to think, to inhale and exhale, to walk, to eat, and to do anything else. The goddess is worshiped by all gods, the Trimurti, rishis, and all other beings. But in each of her roles, Parvati has a different name to represent her mild and fierce forms.

63″ Large-Than-Life Shiva-Uma, An Irreplaceable Complement To Each Other | Handmade | Panchaloha Bronze
Goddess Parvati, the gentle aspect of Devi Shakti, is represented as fair, beautiful, and benevolent. She typically wears a red dress (often a Sari), and may have a head-band. When depicted alongside Shiva, she generally appears with two arms, but when alone, she may be depicted having four. These hands may hold a conch, crown, mirror, rosary, bell, dish, farming tool such as Goad, Sugarcane stalk, or flowers such as Lotus. One of her arms in front may be in the Abhaya mudra (hand gesture for ‘fear not’). One of her children, typically Ganesha, is on her knee, while her younger son Skanda may be playing near her in her watch.

Goddess Parvati is linear progenitor of all other goddesses according to Devi Bhagavata Purana. This is also the Shaiva Siddhanta stand which extends to Shakta beliefs of holding her as a Universal Mother. She is one who is source of all forms of goddesses. She is worshiped as one with many forms and name. Her different moods bring different forms or incarnations. Each of her forms is backed up by Puranic myths. Parvati is also synonymous with Kali, Durga, Kamakshi, Meenakshi, Gauri and host of forms. For instance, while Shiva Purana holds Gauri as the younger version of virgin Parvati, other myths attribute the golden skin Goddess Gauri’s to the story of Parvati casting off her undesired complexion after Shiva teased her. Another version is that Gauri is in essence a fertility Goddess. Here she is venerated as a corn mother. This is a suggestion that her golden skin represents hues of ripening grain, for which she is propitiated.The Incomparable Devi Uma (Goddess Parvati)
Parvati was created to marry the god, Shiva. She was to have a son with him who would destroy the demons that were driving the gods out of the heavens. After Shiva’s first wife died, he withdrew himself from the world in mourning. He retired to a cave in the mountains to immerse himself in constant meditation. During this time, the demons of the underworld were rising up and beginning to overturn the gods in the heavens. So, the gods went to Shakti for help. She told them that a son of Shiva was the only one who could conquer the demons and save them. So, she manifested herself as Parvati, to seduce Shiva out of his seclusion and become his wife. Every day, Parvati would visit Shiva’s cave dwelling to sweep the floors, and bring him fruits and flowers. But Shiva would never break his meditation. Frustrated, she sought the help of Kama, the lord of desire, to also assist her. Kama decided to shoot an arrow of desire into the heart of Shiva to awaken his longing. But Shiva was angered by this, and opened his third eye to engulf Kama in flames, reducing him to ashes. Parvati did not let this deter her, and she resolved to find another way to win Shiva’s heart. She decided to immerse herself deeply into her own austere spiritual practice. She went into the forest to meditate, eating nothing, and wearing nothing to protect her from the elements. Shiva became impressed with her devotion, and decided to take her as his wife. Together, they made a son, Skanda, who was able to defeat the demons with the help of goddess Kali, another manifestation of Shakti. Later, Parvati made a son, Ganesh. One day, she instructed Ganesh to guard a doorway for her. Shiva came to see Parvati, and not recognizing Ganesh as son, became angry that he was blocking him from seeing her, and cut off his head. Parvati was in anguish over the loss of her son. So, Shiva found the head of an elephant as a replacement, and their son lived once again.27″ Standing Parvati with Baby Ganesha and Kartikeya | Handmade | Madhuchista Vidhana (Lost-Wax) | Panchaloha Bronze from Swamimalai
In Kalikula, Parvati manifests as Kali, Chandi and Durga. Durga is demon fighting form of this Goddess, and some texts suggest Parvati took the form of Goddess Durga to kill Demon Durgam. Kali is another aspect that was assisted by Goddess Chandi while fighting with rakta bija. Goddess Chamunda comes in this list also. These goddesses share some common iconography as goddess Kali who is nobody but an aspect of Parvati in ferocious form. Also generally, the Tantra discipline is governed by both Sri Kula and Kali Kula. Among the Dasa Mahavidyas Kali, Tara, Bhuvaneswari and Chinnamasta are said to come under Kali Kula. Likewise, Tripur Sundari, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi and Kamala come under Srikula. The dividing line is a controversial one. Further, Sati manifesting in 52 Shakti peeths are expansions of Parvati. However, there are also milder incarnations such as Meenakshi and Kamakshi and a range of goddesses manifesting from Parvati.Standing Parvati
Goddess Parvati with many forms and names
Durga: Parvati took the form of Durga to kill the demon Durgamasur.

Kali: A ferocious form of Parvati, as Goddess of time and change.

Chandi: Slayer of the demon Mahishasura.

Meenakshi: Goddess with eyes shaped like a fish.

Kamakshi: Goddess of love and devotion.

Lalita: The playful Goddess of the Universe.

Akhilandeshwari: Goddess associated with water.

Annapoorna: Representation of all that is complete and of food.

Goddess Parvati Festivals celebrated by Hindus on various occasions
Gauri Festival : In Maharastra and Karnataka, Goddess Parvati is worshiped as the goddess of harvest and protector of women. This festival is called Gauri festival and is celebrated on the seventh, eighth and nineth of Bhadrapada Shukla paksha.

Gangaur Festival : In Rajasthan, the worship of Goddess Parvati is celebrated as Gangaur festival. The festival starts on the first day of the Chaitra, the day after Holi and continues for 18 days. Images are made in clay for the festival.

Navratri Festival : A very popular festival of Goddess Parvati is the Navratri Festival in which all her forms are worshiped for nine days. Her warrior appearance is of Goddess Durga and other nine forms are Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kashmunda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidaatri.

Gauri Tritiya : Gauri Tritiya is another Goddess Parvati festival celebrated from Chaitra shukla third to Vaishaka shukla third. This festival is popular in Maharashtra and Karnataka where it is believed that Parvati spends this month at her parent’s home. The married women of the household erect a series of platforms in a pyramidal shape with the images of gods and goddesses, collection of ornaments, and pictures shells. Friends are invited and presented with turmeric, fruits, flowers and some eatables as prasadam. Special prayers are held at night along with singing and dancing.

Teej : This is a festival celebrated by women in North India, particularly in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, in honor of Parvati Mata. It is celebrated during the monsoon season and is marked by fasting, praying, and offering flowers to the goddess.

Karwa Chauth : This is a festival celebrated by married women in North India, where they Mata.

Shivratri : This is fast and pray for the long life and well-being of their husbands, seeking the blessings of Parvati a festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, who is believed to be the husband of Parvati Mata. It is celebrated in the month of February or March and is marked by fasting, praying, and offering flowers and fruits to Lord Shiva
Devi Gauri, The Himalayan Maha-Tapasvini
Worship of the divine goddess Parvati is said to bring about marriage, resolve conflicts between couples and help prevent miscarriage. She is also worshipped for fertility, marital felicity, and devotion to the spouse, asceticism and power. Navratri is the season in which all nine forms of Parvati are worshiped. Durga, Shakti, and Kali are also worshiped during Navratri. The festival of Teej celebrates married life and family ties. It also celebrates the onset of the monsoon. Unmarried maidens pray to Goddess Parvati for a suitable groom, while married women pray for the well-being of their husbands. Goddess Parvati is said to be fond of all flowers offered to Lord Shiva. Apart from them, Champa, Bela/Mogra, Palash are the flowers that are offered to the Goddess.

Are Goddess Durga and Parvati the Same?
In Hindu scriptures, Durga and Parvati are two distinct goddesses, although they are sometimes considered to be different aspects of the same divine feminine energy. Parvati is the wife of Lord Shiva, and she is associated with fertility, love, and devotion. She is often depicted as a gentle and nurturing goddess, who is also a fierce warrior when necessary. In some stories, Parvati takes on the form of Durga to defeat powerful demons and protect the gods.

Durga, on the other hand, is a powerful warrior goddess who is often depicted riding a lion or tiger and holding weapons in her multiple arms. She is associated with courage, strength, and victory over evil. Durga is celebrated during the festival of Navratri, which commemorates her victory over the demon Mahishasura.

So, while Durga and Parvati are two distinct goddesses, they are sometimes seen as two sides of the same divine energy. Parvati represents the gentle and nurturing aspect of the goddess, while Durga represents the fierce and protective aspect.

Characteristics of Parvati Mata
Here are some of the key characteristics of Parvati Mata along with examples:

Motherly Love : Parvati Mata is known for her motherly love and affection towards her devotees. She is often depicted holding her children, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya, in her arms.

Example: In the Hindu festival of Navratri, which is dedicated to the divine mother, devotees pray to Parvati Mata to seek her blessings for happiness and well-being.

Patience and Endurance : Parvati Mata is also known for her patience and endurance. She is believed to have undergone many challenges and obstacles in her life, including winning the love of Lord Shiva, and to have emerged victorious through her perseverance.

Example: In the story of the marriage of Lord Shiva and Parvati Mata, Parvati Mata is shown to have performed intense austerities and penances to win the love of Lord Shiva.

Wisdom and Knowledge : Parvati Mata is also considered to be the embodiment of wisdom and knowledge.

Example: In the Hindu scripture, the Shiva Purana, there are stories of how Parvati Mata taught Lord Shiva various forms of knowledge, including music, dance, and meditation.

Devotion and Loyalty : Parvati Mata is known for her devotion and loyalty towards Lord Shiva.

Example: In the Hindu festival of Karwa Chauth, married women fast and pray for the long life and well-being of their husbands, seeking the blessings of Parvati Mata.

In tales
Story of Parvati’s Devotion : Parvati is known for her devotion to Lord Shiva, and there is a famous story that illustrates her dedication. According to the story, Parvati decided to undertake severe penance to win Lord Shiva’s hand in marriage. She performed austerities for many years, enduring extreme heat and cold and surviving only on fruits and vegetables. Her devotion and perseverance impressed Lord Shiva, and he finally agreed to marry her.

 

Key Takeaways

Parvati is one of the most complex goddesses in the Hindu pantheon, and is associated with both power and love.

She is often depicted as the wife of Lord Shiva, and is believed to embody the qualities of femininity and nurturing.

Parvati is considered to be a powerful deity, with the ability to control the forces of nature and protect her devotees.

She is also associated with fertility and is believed to be the mother of all living beings.

In Hindu mythology, Parvati is believed to have taken on various forms, including Durga, Kali, and Uma.

Parvati is worshipped during the festival of Navratri, which celebrates her victory over the demon Mahishasura, and is celebrated with offerings of flowers, incense, and other items.

Parvati is also associated with the power of yoga and meditation, and is often depicted in a meditative posture.

Parvati is often depicted as a calm and gentle figure that brings balance and harmony to the world around her.

Parvati is also associated with creativity and the arts.