Parvati

The Divine Mother

Parvati is the goddess of power, fertility, love, and devotion. She is the consort of Shiva and mother of Ganesha and Kartikeya. As the embodiment of Shakti (divine feminine energy), she represents the active, creative power of the universe.

Daughter of the Mountains

Born as the daughter of Himavan (the personification of the Himalayas) and Mena, Parvati is called Parvati ("she of the mountains"). She is the reincarnation of Sati, Shiva's first wife, who immolated herself when her father insulted Shiva.

The Great Penance

To win Shiva's love after his grief over Sati's death, Parvati performed severe austerities (tapas) for years. Her devotion eventually awakened Shiva from his meditation, and they were married. Their union represents the perfect balance of consciousness (Shiva) and energy (Shakti).

Many Forms

Parvati manifests in both gentle and fierce forms. Her gentle aspects include Uma and Gauri. Her fierce warrior forms include Durga and Kali, who emerge when cosmic order is threatened by demons. The festival Navratri celebrates her nine forms.