The Devoted Princess and the Unmoved Yogi

Lord Shiva’s Penance Continues 

Strengthened by Lord Brahma’s boon, Tarakasura threatened the cosmic balance. His oppression grew, worrying the Devas. The union of Shiva and Shakti was essential now to save the creation. However, after Sati, Lord Shiva immersed himself in tapasya (deep meditation). What or who could kindle the fire of divine union in his heart that was light years away from any desire? 

Lord Shiva remained indifferent to worldly attachments, including the presence of Adi Shakti herself. Shailaputri, also known as Devi Parvati, the beloved daughter of Himavan and Mena, was no ordinary princess—she was the reincarnation of Devi Sati, born to reunite with her eternal consort, Lord Shiva, and fulfill the divine prophecy. She grew up in the comforts of the royal palace. As the mountain’s daughter, she stood for strong will, deep love, and complete devotion. 

Upon hearing the prophecy from Maharshi Narada that his daughter would be the consort of Lord Shiva, Maharaj Himavan began to visit Lord Shiva, who was practicing intense penance in the Himalayas. Raja Himavan was overjoyed that Mahadev had graced his kingdom with his divine presence. He went to Lord Shiva every day and offered Nitya Pooja. 

Pleased with Himvan’s devotion, Lord Shiva gave him a boon that anyone who meditated in the Himalayan ranges would achieve success in their sadhana. Even today, many yogis perform tapas in the sacred Himalayan ranges.

(You can check out Thirteen Months in the Himalayas, which offers a rare glimpse into Om Swami's ji’s extraordinary journey of sadhana and mantra siddhi. He performed many of these sadhanas in the Himalayas.)

Ma Parvati Serves Lord Shiva

Gradually, Ma Parvati decided to serve Lord Mahadev every day. She would lovingly clean up the cave that served as his seat for penance. She would collect flowers, fruits, and other ingredients to offer her heartfelt prayers. Ma Parvati would also take care of all his needs while he was immersed in Tapas. Mahadev was highly pleased with her devotion and blessed her every day. However, there was no change in his sentiment towards her. There was no hint of desire in him.

Lord Shiva Punishes Kamdev

The Devas, in the meantime, were getting restless. Lord Shiva showed no interest in getting Shakti back, and Tarakasura's cruelties were growing. Finally, Devraj Indra decided to send Kamdev (Manmatha, the God of Desire) to kindle a desire in Lord Shiva's heart for Shakti.

One day, when Devi Parvati was cleaning Lord Shiva's cave, Kama struck his arrow at Lord Shiva's heart. For a split second, a desire rose in Lord Shiva's heart, and he noticed the beauty of the Tripura Sundari in front of him. But, the next moment, he wondered how and why such a thought arose. Within no time, he knew it to be the work of someone else. On looking around, he saw Kamadev behind a tree, holding his bow, about to shoot a second arrow. Mahadev grew angry. A flame emerged from his forehead and burned Kamdev to ashes. 

The next moment, Lord Shiva also vanished from there.

Kamadev’s ashes swirled in the air, and a silence fell over heaven and earth. Lord Shiva’s departure left Devi Parvati alone, but not defeated. Her resolve deepened, and her devotion grew more intense. Meanwhile, the Devas realised that not only had their plan failed, but it had also brought on Mahadev’s fury. But destiny had its plans, and true divine love couldn’t be held back for long.

What trials will Ma Parvati face to prove her devotion? How will the lone Mahadev's heart finally soften for his eternal Shakti? And will the cosmic purpose driving their union finally be fulfilled? Click here to read the tale of celestial love, supreme sacrifice, and the power of devotion in the next chapter of this divine saga.