The Myth Behind Sawan Somwar — How Goddess Parvati’s Vrat Led To Her Divine Union With Lord Shiv
Sawan Somwar, the Mondays of the holy month of Sawan, are filled with the chants of "Har Har Mahadev," offerings of belpatra, and fasting by countless devotees. But did you know that this age-old tradition has its roots in one of the most moving love stories of Hindu mythology?
The story of Godess Parvati's relentless vrat to win Lord Shiv's heart is a deeply human and spiritual tale. It's a tale of perseverance, faith, and the strength of a woman's resolve.
Let's know about this divine saga that turned Mondays into the most sacred day of Shiv bhakts across India.
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Why Did Goddess Parvati Fast For Lord Shiv
Parvati, the reincarnation of Sati, was born with a single wish, to marry Mahadev. But Lord Shiv, detached from the world after Sati's death, had renounced worldly desires and gone deep into meditation.
Parvati began a strict tapasya in the the Himalayas. She gave up on all the comforts, lived on air and leaves, and meditated even under harsh weather, all for the love of Lord Shiv. Her goal wasn't just marriage, it was union with divine consciousness itself.
The gods watched this in awe. Her fasts during the month of Sawan, especially on Mondays became the turning point of her journey.
How Parvati Won Mahadev's Heart
Impressed by her unwavering devotion, the gods sent Kamdev, the god of love, to awaken Shiv from his trance. But Kamdev was reduced to ashes by the fire from Shiv's third eye.
Still, Parvati didn't give up and her dedication intensified even more. Eventually, Lord Shiv himself appeared before her, not in royal form, but disguised as a brahmin. He questioned her choice and tried to dissuade her.
But Parvati stood firm. Her faith never wavered. Shiva, deeply moved, shed his disguise and accepted her love, which made the heavens rejoice.
The Divine Union That Became Eternal
The wedding of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiv was not an ordinary affair. It was the union of prakriti and purush, the cosmic balance of universe.
Since then, it's believed that those who fast on Sawan Somwars with true devotion are blessed with marital harmony, mental harmony, and divine grace.
Parvati's story is not only about her desire, but also about devotion, destiny, and dharm.
Sawan Somwar serves as a tribute to the eternal love of Shiv and Shakti.
In today's world of instant everything, this story of Hindu mythology reminds us of timeless values like patience, faith, and deep-rooted love. This is why each Sawan Somwar is considered more than just a ritual.
[Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on beliefs, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]
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