Goddess Parvati, also known as Uma, is one of the most revered and widely worshipped goddesses in Hindu mythology. She is known for her beauty, grace, and power, and is considered to be the embodiment of Shakti, the divine feminine energy that gives birth to and sustains the universe. She is the divine consort of Lord Shiva. In this essay, we will explore the myths and legends associated with Parvati, and gain a deeper understanding of her significance in Hinduism.

The Birth of Parvati

According to Hindu mythology, Parvati was born as the daughter of Himavan, the king of the Himalayas, and his wife, Maina. She was born with the divine purpose of marrying Lord Shiva, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity of gods. To prepare herself for this union, Parvati underwent severe penance and austerities, and finally won the heart of Lord Shiva, who was initially reluctant to marry her.

Parvati and Lord Shiva

The union of Parvati and Lord Shiva is considered to be one of the most important divine marriages in Hindu mythology. Parvati is often depicted as a devoted wife who is fiercely protective of her husband.

In one myth, Parvati assumes the form of Durga, the warrior goddess, and battles the demon Mahishasura, who had gained the power to conquer the world. With her fierce strength and bravery, Parvati defeats Mahishasura and restores balance to the universe. So, she is also known as ‘Mahishasuramardini‘.

The Story of Ganesha

Parvati is also known as the mother of God Ganesha, the elephant-headed god who is widely worshipped in Hinduism. According to legend, Parvati created Ganesha out of clay and brought him to life, and he became her beloved son. One day, when Parvati was taking a bath, she asked Ganesha to guard the door and not let anyone in. When Lord Shiva tried to enter, Ganesha, not recognizing him, stopped him from entering. In a fit of anger, Lord Shiva beheaded Ganesha, causing immense sorrow to Parvati. Shiva later restored Ganesha to life by giving him the head of an elephant.

Parvati as the Mother Goddess

Parvati is also revered as the mother goddess in Hinduism. She is often depicted as a nurturing and compassionate mother figure, who cares for her devotees and protects them from harm. In one myth, Parvati takes on the form of Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food, and distributes food to the hungry and needy.

The Ardhanarishvara Form

Parvati is also associated with the Ardhanarishvara form, which represents the union of Shiva and Parvati as one being. In this form, half of the body is male (Shiva) and the other half is female (Parvati). This form symbolizes the harmony and balance between the male and female energies in the universe.

Parvati as the Ultimate Yoga Master

In Hindu mythology, Parvati is also known as the ultimate yoga master. She is said to have taught yoga to Lord Shiva, and is often depicted in yogic postures, such as the lotus pose. Parvati’s mastery of yoga represents her ability to harness the power of the mind and body, and to achieve spiritual enlightenment.

Conclusion

Parvati is a complex and multifaceted goddess in Hindu mythology. She is revered as the embodiment of divine feminine energy, and is known for her beauty, grace, and power. Through her various forms and manifestations, Parvati represents the many facets of the divine feminine, including motherhood, strength, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment.