Tales froM Indian Mythology

Author(s): A S Raman
Publisher: Kutub Popular

Page 21

The Marriage of Parvati
Meanwhile there was panic at Indra's celestial court because of the depredations of the demon Tarakasura who had threatened the very existence of the devas (gods) and rishis (sages). Brahma had ordained that Taraka be slain by the future son of Parvati and Shiva. So Indra and all the other devas were impatient about the marriage of Parvati to Shiva. Indra hit upon a plan. He called Manmatha, the God of Love, and said: "You must at once go to the deodar forest at the foot of the Himalayas and cast your spell over Shiva so that he may fall in love with Parvati and marry her. Vasanta and Chandra shall also go with you and help you in your task.” “My Lord, it is done !” said Manmatha, Vasanta (Spring) and Chandra (Moon) and set out on their joint errand.
Now the deodar forest, bathed in soft silvery moonlight, became a garden of enchantment. Birds and beasts moved in pairs, and everything in Nature seemed to be in love, seeking Oneness, with its beloved. The Gandharvas sang in Hindol and the Apsaras danced with a gay abandon. Manmatha chose this moment for his "attack” on Mahadev. Seated on a krishnajin (deer-skin) with his half-closed eyes fixed on the tip of his nose, the Supreme Lord was in deep contemplation. The snake round his neck raised its hood and began to hiss at the advancing God of Love. Manmatha suddenly stopped at a deodar tree which stood between him and Shiva. At the Lord's feet sat Parvati with her eyes closed, and holding flowers in her folded hands; a lotus garland was dangling from her right arm.
The Great Lord opened his eyes and offering the flowers at his feet, Parvati prostrated herself before him. Pleased with her devotion, Shiva said: "You shall have a husband who has