Annapurna Mata Katha – Chapter 2: Famine in Kashi

Famine Strikes Kashi

In the previous chapter, Lord Shiva expressed doubt about Parvati's thoughts on food. Hurt by her husband's disbelief, Parvati resolves to prove herself. With this resolve, an unexpected event occurs that shakes the entire universe.

Parvati's Disappearance

A deep sorrow settled in Parvati's heart. Sadness clouded her face, and tears welled up in her eyes. Using her divine power, she made herself invisible. Silence descended upon Mount Kailash. Lord Shiva was surprised when he could not find Parvati near him. He searched everywhere, but Parvati was nowhere to be found. Despair filled the air, as if joy had been stolen away.

Lord Shiva, distressed, said, "O Parvati, where are you? What mistake have I made that you are displeased with me? Please reveal yourself, this world feels empty without you." The fire of regret burned in his heart. He understood that Parvati's disappearance was not just an ordinary event, but a cosmic sign.

The Dance of Famine on Earth

As soon as Parvati disappeared, a famine struck the earth. Food stores became empty, rivers dried up, and fields turned barren. People began to writhe in hunger. Chaos erupted everywhere. Mothers wandered with their children in their arms, searching for food. The old and helpless collapsed on the streets, overcome by hunger. The city of Kashi, once brimming with food and prosperity, now became a symbol of hunger and despair.

With the disappearance of Goddess Annapurna, there was a scarcity of food on Earth. It is believed that only when Mother Parvati is present in the form of Annapurna does there remain an abundance of food on Earth. Her disappearance disrupted the balance of nature, and life on Earth became difficult without the Goddess of Food. People were confined to their homes, tormented by hunger, and a shadow of despair loomed over everything.

Cry of Distress in Kashi

The situation in the city of Kashi was worsening by the day. People were collapsing on the streets, overwhelmed by hunger. Children begged their mothers for food, and mothers were helpless to console them. Devotees of Lord Shiva were also suffering from hunger and were unable to perform their worship. This terrible famine had completely devastated Kashi. Due to this dire situation, Lord Shiva realized that he would have to implore Annapurna. In the next chapter, we will see how Shiva attempts to bring Annapurna back and liberate Kashi from this famine.