The story of Goddess Parvati and the demons Kirti and Vasa is indeed an intriguing one, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and associated with the Ekambra Kshetra, also known as Bhubaneswar or Gupta Kashi, and the Lingaraj temple.
It is said that Mahadeva Shiva, feeling overwhelmed by the
commotion and crowds of devotees in Kashi, sought solace in Ekambra Kshetra
without informing Goddess Parvati of his whereabouts. However, Goddess Parvati,
through the guidance of Brahma, learned of Shiva's presence in Ekambra Kshetra
and set out to find him.
Upon reaching Ekambra Kshetra, Goddess Parvati discovered Mahadeva
Shiva in deep meditation amidst a gathering of thousands of cows shedding milk
at a single point. Impressed by the serene environment and Shiva's presence,
she decided to stay there as a Gopaluni, taking care of the cows.
Goddess Parvati's divine aura and beauty began to transform
the surroundings, bringing a sense of peace and sanctity to Ekambra Kshetra.
However, this transformation attracted the attention of two notorious demons,
Kirti and Vasa, known for their oppression of the innocent.
Enchanted by Goddess Parvati's beauty, the demons approached
her and proposed marriage. Sensing their true intentions, Goddess Parvati
agreed to their proposal under the condition that they carry her on their
shoulders and show her around the Kshetra.
As the demons began to carry Goddess Parvati on their
shoulders for the Kshetra Parikrama, she revealed her true divine form,
overwhelming them with her immense power and presence. Unable to bear the
weight of the divine Goddess, the demons were crushed under her feet and sent
to hell.
The place where the demons were vanquished by Goddess
Parvati's divine power is known as Devipadahara, and it is believed that a tank
formed there, known as the Devipadahara Tank, commemorates this event.
This story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the
immense power of the divine Goddess Parvati, showcasing her as the ultimate
symbol of strength, grace, and protection.