A determined Parvati began her penance, abstaining from food and only focusing on her chanting, which earned her the name Aparna, or ‘the girl who refuses to eat even a leaf’. With each passing day, her tapasya became more and more severe, until the entire world was aware of her meditation. Years passed, and Parvati grew powerful with the strength she obtained from her intense penance.

In the meantime, Shiva came to learn about everything that had transpired- her devotion to him and his failure to notice her. He realised that she wasn’t a mere mortal, and decided to test her faith.

Shiva approached Parvati disguised as a Sanyasi begging for food. Though she was deep in meditation, she sensed the sanyasi’s presence and opened her eyes. A wave of peace and calm swept over Shiva.

Parvati stared at him without realising who he was, and then offered him all she had. While receiving the alms, the ascetic asked, ‘why are you performing this penance?’

‘It is for Shiva. I wish to marry him, ‘she said simply.

‘But he is not worthy of you, said the ascetic. ‘Shiva’s dwelling is atop the cold and bleak mount Kailash, and sometimes he is even found in cremation grounds. You are exquisite and refined while his appearance is ghoulish. He smears ash on his body and uses skulls for garlands. You are delicate while he is slovenly. You are sweet-tempered while Shiva is known for his wrath. He is no match for you. You should marry someone kind, handsome and gentle, who can treat you the way deserve to be treated. Take my sincere advice and end your penance. Go back to the life that you were meant to live.’

Parvati was furious at the sanyasi’s words. ‘You came to me for food and I have given you all that I can. It is time for you to be on your way. I know Shiva’s soul. He does not care for fine clothes and ornaments. Why, he doesn’t even care for grand rituals performed in his name! A devotee can offer him a leaf from a Bel tree and some water, and he would be satisfied. He is the kindest of all the gods, and he always stands by the promises he makes to his followers, regardless of who they are. I am sorry, but I do not need your guidance in this matter.’

The ascetic, however, paid no heed to her words. He continued, ‘but Lady, what about the way he reduced poor Kamadeva to a heap of ashes…. Surely you can’t approve of that-‘

‘I cannot listen to you anymore! And if you won’t leave, I will, ‘Parvati retorted,

Just as she turned to go, there was a flash of white light and Shiva appeared in his true form.

‘My dear Parvati, ‘he said. ‘Please forgive me for my harsh words. It is my loss that I was unaware of your presence earlier. But I can see you clearly now. You are Dakshayani, my beloved consort, and we belong together. We always have. Will you marry me and agree to be my companion for eternity?’

Parvati smiled and nodded in assent.

The whole world rejoiced when they heard the news, and the wedding, which was known as Girija Kalyana, was celebrated with much pomp and show.

In time, a child was born to the couple, whom they named Karthikeyan. He was also called Shanmukha because he had six faces, which meant that he could see problems approaching from anywhere.

Karthikeyan knew the purpose of his birth, While he was still a child, he fought the mighty Taraka with the support of the gods and eventually slew him using his most deadly weapon- Shakti. He also killed Taraka’s two brothers: Simhamukhan, who later became Parvati’s mount, and Suradpadmun, who was reborn as the peacock that became Karthikeya’s vehicle.

News of his valour spread far and wide, and the gods eventually appointed him as commander of the heavenly army.

Thus, Karthikeya’s birth ended Taraka’s cruel reign and saved the world.

I also remember this beautiful story because of a sacred Shiva temple that i have been fortunate to visit a few times in the Himalayas. It is the most beautiful Vishwanath temple in Guptakashi, Uttarakhand. According to the locals, priests and the legends tell that Shiva proposed Parvati here at Guptakashi, before they got married.

On the wedding day, Bhagwan Narayan performed all the rituals as Mata Parwati’s brother and Lord Brahma became the Purohit for the wedding.

There is also Ardhnarishwar temple just left to this temple. So do plan a visit whenever visiting the Himalayas

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