Kanyaka Parameswari is one of the five thousands incarnations of Adi Parashakti – Mother Goddess in Hindu religion. Story of Goddess Kanyaka Parameswari is found in the Sanatsujata Samhita of Skanda Purana and it was narrated by Suta Mahamuni. Kanyaka Parameswari appears in each of the four yugas.
- In Satya Yuga, she is recognized as Adi Shakti
- In Treta Yuga, she is Renuka
- In Dwapara Yuga, she is Sri Vasavi
- In Kali Yuga, she is Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari
Stories of Goddess Kanyaka Parameswari
One popular legend about the goddess is that she is a manifestation of Sachi, wife of Indira.
Lord Brahma asked Jayanta, son of Indra, to fight the demons. But Sachi, mother of Jayanta, denied him permission. In spite of pleas from several quarters, she refused to send her son to fight the demons.
An angry Brahma curse Sachi to be born on earth for her cowardice and lack of courage. It is believed that she was born in the house of business community.
Indra now asked her wife be pardoned. After repeated requests from Indra, Brahma told him that the curse cannot be taken back but he can give the relief that she will remain a virgin throughout her life on earth.
Another legend has it that Sushila, wife of Somakanta, a yaksha, prayed for daughter to be born to them. The wish was fulfilled and Sachi was born as the daughter of the couple.
Sachi grew into a beautiful and charming girl; and was liked by everyone. Chitrakanta, a gandharva, was attracted to her beauty and proposed to her but Sachi rejected his proposal.
An angry Chitrakanta cursed her to be born on earth for being arrogant. She was born on earth as Vasavamba in the house of Kusumamba and Kusumsresthi. They were traders.
Once Vishnuvardhana, the king, visited the town where Vasavamba lived and he happened to see her. The king offered to marry Vasavamba.
An happy father, Kusumresthi made plans for marriage with the support of 612 sub caste of Vaishyas (traders). But Virupaksha, brother of Vasavamba, and 102 sub caste of Vaishyas objected to the marriage plan.
When things went out of control, Vasavamba jumped into yajna fire and showed her original form. She was called Kanyakamba.
From that day, the traders started worshipping her.
Kanyaka Parameshwari temple and worship is more with business community in South India.