In Hinduism, fasts and festivals have special significance. There is some mythological story or spiritual purpose hidden behind these fasts, which inspires the person to follow the path of religion, restraint and devotion. One such fast is related to the story of the abduction of Mata Parvati. This story is not only important from a religious point of view, but it also teaches us how the gods struggled to protect the power and respect of the woman.
This fast is mentioned in many religious texts and Puranas, in which this story associated with the kidnapping of Goddess Parvati gives the message to the devotees to connect with the depth of religion, devotion and courage. Let us know in detail the mythology of this fast, religious significance and relevance in today’s era.
Kidnapping of Mata Parvati – Mythology
This story begins with the war between notes and the Asuras. There was an asura named Shambhasura. Shambhasura was very powerful and he had received a boon from Brahma ji by doing hard penance that no deity can kill him. Due to the influence of the boon, he became extremely egoistic and started occupying heaven. He started defeating the Gods and Goddesses.
One day he killed Mata Parvati and took her with him to Hades. This dislocation of him created an outcry in the three worlds. When Shivji came to know about this incident, he became very angry and decided to kill Shambhasura.
Gods organized fast
Shambhasura was extremely powerful, so it was not easy to defeat him. The gods organized a special yajna and fast so that Shiva Shakti could be awakened. This fast was called “Shiva Raksha Vrat”, which was aimed at protecting Mata Parvati and destruction of Shambhasura.
While doing this fast, the gods prayed to Lord Shiva to appear in their form and destroy unrighteousness. Pleased with his penance and fast, Shiva produced Virbhadra and Kali, who went to Patal Loka and killed Shambhasura and freed Mata Parvati.
Religious importance of fasting
By observing this fast, one gets relief from the woman, family happiness and peace. In particular, women observe this fast to protect their husbands and family. It is believed that whoever does this fast with reverence, the crises in his life are averted and the grace of Goddess Shakti remains.
Fasting method
This fast is specially performed on Monday of Shravan month, Chaitra Navratri or Sawan:
Take a bath in the morning and wear clean clothes.
Install the idol or picture of Shiva-Parvati in the house or temple.
Offer water, milk, belpatra, and dhatura on the Shivling.
Offer adornment items to Mata Parvati.
Chant the mantras “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Om Parvatai Namah”.
Pray to Mata Parvati to protect the family.
Listen to the story and donate on the fulfillment of the fast.
Why is this fast relevant even today?
In today’s time when women’s safety remains a sensitive subject, this fast and its story teaches us how society and family should be aware of the dignity, defense and freedom of women. The kidnapping of Mata Parvati was not a common incident, she shows that when a crisis on a woman comes, the entire universe tries to protect her. This gives the message that women are not only revered, but also Shaktiswaroopa.
conclusion
This fast associated with the kidnapping of Mata Parvati is not just a religious ritual, but it is a symbol of a ritual, approach, and spiritual awareness. It teaches us that in the hour of crisis, the devotion of God, following religion and the prayer done with true heart can also make the impossible possible. This fast remains a symbol of faith and belief between women and families even today, which suggests that by following the path of devotion, courage and religion can be freed from any crisis.
