Symbolically, the kapala or skull in the hands of Shiva
represents all the world which remains in
his hands. There is a story that explains this symbolism.
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The story of creation from thigh of Shiva is found in the
Kathasaritasagara. Once at the end of Kalpa (a cycle of creation) a great
deluge happened and the earth was covered with water. Now it was time for next
cycle of creation to begin.
Shiva then cut open his thigh and dropped a drop of blood in
the water and it turned into an egg.
Breaking it open a male emerged from it. Seeing him Shiva created
Prakriti, the female principle. Both created prajapatis, the progenitors. They
gave rise to Praja, living beings.
Being ancient among them all the creation
the very first man became known in the world as Pitamaha, supreme father.
His mind was filled with pride for his act of creation of
the world
As per Kathasaritasagara, this account was given by Shiva in
the cremation ground in Ujjain.
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Chandi Mangal Bengali – Importance Of Mangala Poem Dedicated To Goddess Chandi