Creation and Shiva-Shakti’s Divine Union

At the beginning of time, Pitamah Brahma, in charge of Creation in the Universe, formed three groups: the Prajapatis, the Manus, and the Rishis.

Lord Brahma made the Prajapatis responsible for the propagation of Uttam Vansh (superior lineages) in the Universe. One of the Prajapatis was Daksh. Realising how important this task was, Daksh Prajapati decided to first invoke Shiva-Shakti (the primordial energies) to assist in creation. Pleased with his penance, the Divine Mother (Adya Shakti) granted Daksh a boon that she would be born as his daughter. Moreover, she also gave the blessing that he would create and propagate the finest lineages in creation. 

However, Devi Ma laid down two conditions:

• Daksh would have to unite Devi Ma with Lord Shiva through marriage.
• She would leave instantly if she or Mahadev were insulted at any point. 

Overcome with gratitude at Adi Shakti’s immense karuna (compassion) for him, Daksh readily agreed to the conditions.

Devi Sati is Born

With Jaganmata’s blessings, Daksh became the father of many sons and daughters. All of them married illustrious Devis, Devatas, and Rishis to create powerful descendants. Ma Adya Shakti also fulfilled her promise to Daksha and incarnates as his youngest daughter, Sati, gaining the name—Dakshayani. 

Many years went by. Sati grew up in Daksha’s palace as his favourite daughter. Over time, Daksha was blinded by illusion (Maya). He forgot the blessing he had received from the Divine Mother and began to see Sati only as his daughter. He also became proud and full of ego about his role in creation. Viewing Mahadev as only the great destroyer, in his ignorance and pride, Daksha began to treat Mahadev as his archenemy. Eventually, he even forgot his promise to Shakti. 

Sati Unites with Shiva

When it was time for Sati to choose a husband, Daksh arranged a grand Swayamvar — a special event where the bride chooses her husband from a group of suitors. He had invited all the gods except one: Lord Shiva, the most powerful of them all.

Sati entered the decorated hall, holding the wedding garland, her cheeks glowing with excitement and hope. Her eyes searched every face in the crowd, but her beloved Shiva was nowhere to be seen among the invitees. Disappointed, she looked once at her father, then quietly closed her eyes. With deep love, she whispered Shiva’s name and tossed the garland into the air.

In that magical moment, Lord Shiva appeared in the hall, standing tall and calm, as the garland gently landed around his neck. Everyone was stunned.

Daksha was in shock. As a father, he didn’t want Shiva — a wild, ash-covered yogi — as his son-in-law. But as Prajapati, a respected creator, he couldn’t deny what had just happened in front of all his guests and followers. With great hesitation, Daksha performed the wedding ceremony. Shiva and Sati were finally united and went on to live happily at Kailash Parvat.