Gauri Shiv Vrat Katha

॥ Shri Gauri Shiv Vrat Katha. 🔱🌸

Story begins:

It is a story of ancient times, when Sati, daughter of Daksh Prajapati, had immolated herself in the fire of Yagya. Lord Shiva went into renunciation and indulged in severe penance. On the other hand, Shakti was bornin the form of 'Gauri'(Parvati) in the house of mountain king Himalaya and mother Maina. Gauri was engrossed in the devotion of Lord Shiva since childhood.

1. Gauri's hard penance and Narad's guidance

When Gauri became eligible for marriage, Himalayaraj became worried. At the same time, Devarshi Narad told Himalayaraj that Gauri could be married only to Lord Shiva, but for this she would have to do hard penance. Narad Muni told Gauri'om namah shivaaya'Mantra ka japa karne aur kathina tapasya karne ki salaaha dee.

Gauri accepted Narad Muni's advice and went to the forest to perform severe penance. He performed penance for thousands of years by eating only Belpatra. After this, she also gave up the Bel leaves and did penance by drinking only air, due to which she was named'Aparna'. All three worlds started trembling due to his penance. Ultimately Mahadev was pleased and sent the Saptarishis to test Gauri. Gauri remained firm on her integrity and passed the examination.

2. Shiva's Test and Appearance

After the test of the Saptarishis, Lord Shiva himself came in the form of a young celibate (Brahmin) to test Gauri. He spoke very ill of Lord Shiva in front of Gauri (he has no property, he only eats ashes, he always lives with ghosts). He advised Gauri to marry some other god.

Gauri became angry after hearing Brahmachari's words. He asked the celibate to remain silent and praised the virtues of Lord Shiva. She said that her love is true and she considers only Shiva as her husband. Seeing Gauri's loyalty and love, Lord Shiva was extremely pleased and revealed his true form to Gauri.

3. Marriage of Shiva-Parvati

Lord Shiva accepted Gauri's love and accepted her as his wife. He reached Himalayaraj's house and married Gauri. The marriage of Shiva and Parvati was solemnized with full rituals in the presence of Lord Brahma. The gods showered flowers and there was cheering all around. This marriage gave a message to the world that in love, not the external form, but internal faith and penance is important.

॥ Importance and lesson of the story. 📋🌿