Parvati's mother, Queen Mena, questions her daughter's decision to marry the ascetic Shiva, unable to understand why a princess would choose a life seemingly devoid of wealth and worldly comforts. Through a divine experience orchestrated by Mahadeva himself, Mena discovers that true greatness lies not in material possessions or royal status, but in wisdom, compassion, and spiritual truth. This inspiring narrative reminds us that everything in the material world is temporary, while love, devotion, and inner realization are eternal.
Parvati's Mother Questions Her Choice
Once, Goddess Parvati's mother asked her: "My daughter,
what special quality did you see in that cremation-ground dweller, that
outcaste, to fall in love with him? He has no home of his own, no family or
relatives worthy of mention. You are the princess of this kingdom. Think
carefully, my child. By giving up all these comforts and luxuries, aren't you
choosing a life that is no different from hell?"
Parvati smiled gently and replied,
"Mother, please touch my hands and close your
eyes."
Her mother looked confused.
"Daughter, I asked you a question. Why are you saying
this?"
Parvati answered,
"This is how I will answer your question, Mother."
A Mystical Journey Begins
Though slightly disappointed that she hadn't received a
direct answer, Parvati's mother held her daughter's hands and closed her eyes. After
a few moments, a cool breeze embraced her. She opened her eyes in surprise. She
was standing alone in a deserted place. Parvati was nowhere to be seen. Fear
gripped her. She looked around in panic.
The Sound of the Damaru
Suddenly, the distant sound of a damaru (Shiva's sacred
drum) echoed through the air. Drawn by the sound, she walked toward it. Soon
she arrived before a magnificent gateway. Two horned guardians stood there.
They folded their hands respectfully and invited her inside. Confused, she
stepped through the gate. The sound of the damaru grew louder with every step. She
climbed snow-covered stone stairs. The fragrance of sacred ash filled the air.
Meeting the Mysterious Yogi
A little farther ahead, she saw a young ascetic seated upon
a rock, playing the damaru. He had long, thick hair. His body was covered in
sacred ash. He wore saffron robes. A Trishul rested beside him. His face
radiated strength, serenity, and divine grace. She found herself captivated by
the rhythm of his drum. Seeing her, he smiled warmly. Pointing to a nearby
rock, he invited her to sit.
A Strange Conversation
She sat down and asked, "Son, where is this place? I am
Mena, wife of King Himavan. I must return to my palace. Will you help me?"
The young ascetic smiled.
"Mother, no one ever arrives anywhere by accident.
Every arrival has a purpose. Your coming here today also has a purpose." "Yes,
Mother. Even your arrival here has a divine purpose."
She became slightly irritated.
"What are you saying? Do you know you're speaking to a
queen? I asked for your help, and instead you lecture me?"
The ascetic laughed gently.
"Please don't be angry, Mother. After all, you're
speaking to your future son-in-law."
The Great Revelation
Startled, she rose to her feet. Pointing at him, she
stammered, "Then... then... are you...?"
He smiled again. "Yes, Mother. I am that
cremation-ground dweller—Shiva." At that very moment, conch-like celestial
sounds filled the heavens. Mount Kailash trembled. His matted locks rose
majestically. A serpent appeared around his neck. The divine third eye shone
upon his forehead. A trident manifested in his hand. He was adorned with tree
bark and tiger skin. The Supreme Mahadeva revealed His full divine form. Overwhelmed
with awe and fear, Mena stepped back with folded hands.
Shiva Explains the Truth of Life
Mahadev Shiva smiled gently and said,
Do not fear, Mother. You are Parvati's mother, and
therefore you are like a mother to me as well. It is true—we have neither
palace nor mansion. Mount Kailash is our home. Every living being in this
universe is our family. The same divine consciousness exists within everything.
If you listen carefully, even a grain of sand chants the mantra 'Namah
Shivaya.' No one comes into this world carrying anything, and no one leaves
with anything. Palaces, wealth, and comforts are not permanent. After death,
the body becomes lifeless, destined to return to nature. Therefore, no one
should ever be arrogant about what they possess.
Mena's Realization
Hearing these words, tears filled Mena's eyes.
With folded hands, she pleaded, "Forgive me, Lord. I
had become proud of my position as a queen. I had lost myself in worldly
comforts. Parvati truly belongs to You. Her love for You is pure and genuine. Only
today have I understood the true meaning of life. Please forgive me."
Mahadeva's Compassion
Lord Shiva replied with kindness, "Do not ask for
forgiveness, Mother. My only purpose was to help you understand some of life's
eternal truths."
Mena closed her eyes once more with tears of devotion. A
cool breeze embraced her again.
Back in the Palace
When she opened her eyes, she found herself back in the
palace, standing before Goddess Parvati. Parvati smiled gently and asked, "Mother...
do you now understand why this princess loves the dweller of the cremation
grounds?" With tears in her eyes, Mena embraced her daughter. "Yes,
my child. I understand everything now. The darkness in my heart has
vanished."