Navdurga Katha – Chapter 1: Shailputri: Daughter of the Himalayas

Shailputri: Daughter of the Himalayas

Shailputri, the first of the nine forms of Maa Durga, is worshipped on the first day of Navratri. This story begins from the time when it became necessary for the Adishakti to take rebirth to maintain balance in the creation. The gods and sages together prayed for the re-establishment of Lord Shiva's power, for which the union of Shakti with Shiva was essential.

Penance of the Himalayas

Himavan, the king of mountains, Himalayas, was deeply saddened by being childless. His wife, Menaka, was also eager to experience motherhood. Together, they decided to worship the Adishakti. They performed severe penance, day and night, with only one desire – to receive Mother Bhagavati as their daughter. Snow covered the surroundings, and the cold was biting, but the focus of Himalayas and Menaka did not waver from their penance. Their hearts were filled with love and devotion.

Himalayas said in his heart, "O Mother, if you are pleased with our penance, then please bless us with your benevolent gaze. We only wish that you become our daughter, and illuminate our home with your light." Menaka, supporting her husband, also prayed, "O Goddess, we are humble, we are insignificant, but our faith is true. Please accept our prayer."

Birth of Shailputri

Pleased by their unwavering faith and penance, Mother Bhagavati appeared before them and granted them the boon that she would be born as their daughter. When the time was right, Goddess Parvati, who would also be known as Shailputri, was born in the home of Himalayas and Menaka. With her birth, a divine light spread throughout the Himalayan mountain range. All the gods and sages came to behold her, and the entire Himalayas were filled with joy. It seemed as if nature itself was celebrating her arrival.

With the birth of Shailputri, the importance of the Himalayan mountains increased even further. She began to be considered a goddess, and she was worshipped. Even as an infant, Shailputri possessed all the divine qualities; her eyes shone with brilliance, and her face radiated an extraordinary peace. It seemed as if the Adishakti herself had incarnated in the home of the Himalayas, to redeem her devotees.

Attraction towards Shiva

Shailputri's childhood was spent in the valleys of the Himalayas. She grew up close to nature; mountains, rivers, and vegetation were all her friends. Gradually, she learned about Lord Shiva, about his valor and sacrifice. A special attraction towards Lord Shiva developed in her heart. Shailputri decided to worship Lord Shiva, resolving to make him her husband. This attraction would inspire her to undertake further arduous penance.

The love for Shiva in Shailputri's heart was growing like a seed, which was to be nurtured with the manure of devotion and sacrifice. This love was not worldly, but spiritual, which would lead her towards her goal. In the next part, we will see how Shailputri performs penance to attain Lord Shiva and becomes known as Brahmacharini.