17 Shree Swasthani Mataji's Vrat Katha

Home , Chandraghanta, Ganga (goddess), Shree Ganesh, Swasthani, Trikut, Varunastra

Shree Swasthani Mata Ji’s Vrat-Katha Maaghmahatmay (A Fast worth Celebrating)

Contents

S.NO TOPIC

1 Introduction

2 Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat Procedure

3 Shree Ganesh Aarti and Vandana

4 Mahadev Ji’s Aaradhana

(1) Rudrashtak

(2) Mahamrityunjay Mantra

(3) Twelve Jyotirlings

(4) Shiv Stuti

(5) Lord Shiva’s Aarti

5 Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Prayer

6 Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Outward Appearance

7-37 1st Adhyay to 31st Adhyay (The 31 Chapters)

38 Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Aarti

INTRODUCTION

The Hindu religion propagates many fasts and the devotees undertake them according to their faith. In this book we are presenting to you the auspicious fast of “Shree Swasthani Mata Ji”. It is as under:

Maa Sati, after leaving her corporal form, took birth as Parvati as the daughter of Giriraj Himalaya and his wife Maneka. Parvati used to worship Lord Shiva by making a Shivling (the holy phallus) of sand with a desire to attain him as her husband. When her marriage was fixed with Lord Vishnu, on insistence of sage Narada, she left her home to meditate in the forest. Lord Shiva showed her the glimpse of his divine spirit and suggested to her that only Lord Vishnu can show her the way to marry as per her desire. Then Maa Parvati worshipped Lord Vishnu who in turn came to bless her. Lord Vishnu asked– O Parvati! I am happy with your devotion. Ask for anything you desire. Maa Parvati replied– O God! You know that I worship Shiva as my husband since my childhood. So please show me a way to fulfil my desire. Lord Vishnu replied– O Parvati! Today I will tell you about a Vrat (Fast) that is above all other fasts and blesses beyond imagination. Donations of food, gold, jewellery, elephants and Kanyadaan (marriage of the daughter) yield result as per their glory. But this fast blesses the devotee with worldly pleasures as well as one gets a place in the Shivlok (the place where Lord Shiva resides) after death. This is the fast of “Shree Swasthani Mata Ji”. Then Lord Vishnu explained to Parvati the procedure of performing this fast.

Maa Parvati performed this fast with utmost dedication and got Lord Shiva as her husband. One day she said to Shiva– O God! My desire to marry you got fulfilled with the influence of this fast. Many people in the world are suffering pain and agony on different accounts like lack of money, not getting progeny, suffering due to diseases, not getting a life-partner, some are orphans. I want such people to attain benefit from this fast. Please help in this direction. Then Lord Shiva said– O dear Parvati! I am happy with your kind-hearted feelings. Thus Rishi (sage) Ashvathama should be sent to the Rasatal (the deep sphere) first of all. Maa Parvati sent sage Ashvathama to propagate about this fast in that sphere. Afterwards she sent the Saptarishi to propagate this on the earth. This fast was performed firstly by Parvati herself in the Devlok, by Hiravati

(wife of Shankhchood Naag) in Rasatal, by Ratnavati (wife of Ratanchood Naag), by Mrigavati (wife of Kripadata Naag) and Madnavati (wife of Dhartrashtra Naag) along with sage Ashvathama and by Goma Brahmani on the Prithvilok (earth) under the guidance of Saptarihi. All men and women can keep this fast. This fast is not limited to ladies only. King Navraj, Chandravati’s associates and people like me and you, all can carry out this fast. It is open for all to execute.

My life filled with beautiful colours after I performed this auspicious fast (Vrat). I was inspired to share it with you all. Many people have supported me in my mission to distribute this holy book to you. You, too, can attain worldly as well as divinely pleasures with the help of its knowledge. No one has lost anything in the journey towards divine attainment. Devotion takes us to the God and brings the supreme power closer to us. It makes us nationalistic and honest as well and raises our self-confidence. I got inclined towards this fast with the guidance of Mrs. Rezina Shah, a native of Nepal. We are providing this book to you free of cost with the blessings of “Shree Swasthani Mata Ji”. You can get this book free of cost by contacting me. We would like to share your thoughts regarding this fast so that others can also learn something from your experiences. You are welcome to share any additional knowledge of this fast. Please let us know if there are any faults in our effort. Our innermost desire is to see you attaining the God’s Grace.

Vinod Sharma,

Advocate (Supreme Court of India),

609, New Delhi House,

27, Barakhamba Road, Connaught Place,

New Delhi – 110001

Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat(Fast) Procedure

This Vrat starts on the Paush Shukal Poornima Day. The Vrati (devotee) should cleanse himself/herself, take bathe, cut the nails and may keep fast (If so desires) before vowing to sit for the meditation of “Shree Swasthani Mata Ji”. For one month thereafter he/she should consume vegetarian food, sleep on the floor, without speaking a lie or quarrelling with someone and perform this fast with utmost dedication. Then worship Mataji daily morning by offering water, flowers and fruits and worship Lord Shiva in the afternoon. One should recite the Katha (story) of Mataji to others after sunset after offering dhoop, deep, naivaidya (food for God). You can read the adhyays (chapters) either one daily or as per your choice. Afterwards distribute the Prashad to all and self. This routine should be followed for a month and the Katha should be finished on the Maagh Shukal Purnima Day. On that day make a Shivling and sign of Aum by sand on a copper plate. Offer jaun, til, rice, flowers, paan, supari, yagyasutra to Mataji. The items for the Prashad should be 108 each in number. You should worship Lord Ganesha and Lord Varun after placing the Kalash.

The fasting devotee, after taking bath, should sit on that place and take water, til, flower, kusha and speak one’s name, gotra and place to vow to perform this fast with full dedication. One should desire to attain a place in the Shivlok and give arghya (water offering) to the Sun God.The diyas should be lighted and the Kalash should be placed at the appropriate place. Then offer flower, fruit and money to Mataji. Remember Varun God by moving the kusha in the Kalash. Lord Ganesha should be worshipped and requested to grace the auspicious place. Fruits and flowers should be offered to him. Then visualise revering sacred rivers like Ganga, Narmada, Godawari, Sindhu and Kaaveri in the Kalash. Revere cow, Brahmins, Rudra and Lord Vishnu. Thereafter chant this mantra for Lord Ganesha – Aum Ganpataye namah, vighanrajaye namah, gajvaktraaye namah, parshu hastaye namah, Parvati nandnaaye namah and siddhivinaaykaaye namah. Then make eight corners on the plate or the land to revere Indra in the east, Agni in the south-east, Yama in the south, Nairiti in the south-west, Varun in the west, Kuber in the north, Ishaan in the north-east.

Worship Uma-Maheshwar, Lakshmi-Narayan, Mahadev Ji and Goma Brahmani, Shivsharma Brahman, Navraj, Chandravati and Laavanyavati. Shree Swasthani Mataji should be worshipped in the middle of that Ashtadal where Omkar is written. Pray to her with flowers and rice in hand and request her to take a place there. Then bathe the deity with milk, curd, ghee, sugar and fresh water. Then offer as per your capacity clothes, rice, jaun, til, flower, tilak, dori, vatta, chuda jewellery, sindoor etc. Then light the dhoop and offer sweets to Mataji. Do her aarti with shankh (conch) and ghanti. Mataji should be in your thoughts during this time. Pray to her by saying – “Glittering as gold, the three-eyed, whose face is like a lotus flower, who sits on the throne, attached with all ornaments, the four-armed, who has neelkamal in the upper left hand, varada in the upper right hand, khadaga in the lower left hand, charma in the lower right hand, such a powerful goddess; we remember you the divine being”. Pray to Mataji and request her to cleanse your conscience and fulfil your desires as she does for all her devotees. Hey Mataji– cleanse me, take away all my worries, bestow me with good health, progeny, money and worldly happiness and contentment. Bless me so that I remember you here and hereafter. Request her to fulfil your innermost greatest desire. Pray to her– “Mataji, I have nothing majestic to offer to you. Please accept whatever little I am offering to you and be happy on me. Take me away from bad deeds and accept the Gangajal (water of river Ganga)”. Then take a Parikrama (circle) of the 108 things that you have offered her and bow to her. Then offer food and donation to the Brahmans. The 108-numbered Prashad should be distributed to the husband or son or friend’s son. If no one is available pour it in the river. The men should give this to the son or brother or father or in the river. Chant Mataji’s name in the evening. Every day when you start the pooja, take rice, black til, jaun, sindoor in hand and offer to her. Collect this offered samagri (material) at one place and flow it in the river after the completion of one month.

This is the complete process of undertaking this fast. This should be followed for one month. The ladies can abstain from it if they are undergoing their monthly cycle but they can listen in the katha from someone else. If you are unable to follow the procedure correctly, don’t worry. Mataji is very kind and she forgives her children. She bestows us with her Divine Grace when we remember her. She helped Chandravati and turned her sand offering to real

one. You can put the 108-numbered Prashad as per your choice. It can be grapes, almonds fruits etc. Make sure that your devotion for her doesn’t fade away. This is the month to immerse in the revering of Lord Shiva and Shree Swasthani Mataji. This fast is incomplete without bringing Shivji into picture. Mataji will bless you and your family with her Grace once you do this fast and the results will be beyond imagination.

Shree Ganesh Aarti

Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh Devaa!

Mata jaki Parvati, Pita Mahadeva!! Jai!!

Ekdant dayawant, chaar bhujadhaari!

Mastak sindoor sohe, musey ki sawari!! Jai!!

Andhan ko aankh dete, kodhin ko kaaya!

Baanjhan ko putra dete, nirdhan ko maaya!! Jai!!

Ladduan ka bhog lage, sant karein sewa!

Paan chadey, phool chadey aur chadey mewa!! Jai!!

Deenan ki laaj raakho Shambhu-Sati vari!

Kaamna ko poora karo jag balihari!! Jai!!

Shree Ganesh Vandana

Gajananam bhootganaadisevitam kapitathjambu phal charu bhakshanam!

Umasutam shokvinashkarakam namami vighaneshwarpad pankajam!!

Varnanamaarthsanghanaam rasanaam chchandsaampi!

Manglanaam cha kartaaro vande vaanivinaayako!!

Mahadev Ji’s Aaradhana

This should be chanted ever day before starting Shree Swasthani Mataji’s pooja. Rudrashtak

Namamishamishaan nirvaanrupam! Vibhum vyapakam brahma vedswarupam!!

Nijam nirgunam nirvikalpam niriham! Chidaakaashmaakaashavaasam bhajeham!!

Niraakaarmonkaarmoolam tooriyam! Giraa gyaan gotitmisham girisham!!

Karalam mahakaal kaalam kripalam! Gunaagaar sansaarpaaram natoham!!

Tusharadri sankaash gauram gambhiram! Manobhoot koti prabhashree shareeram!!

Sffuranmauli kallolini charu Ganga! Lasadbhaalbaalendu kanthey bhujanga!!

Chalatkundalam bhru sunetram vishalam! Prasananam neelkantham dayalam!!

Mrigadhishacharmambaram mundmaalam! Priyam shankaram sarvanatham bhajaami!!

Prachandam prakrishtam pragalbham paresham! Akhandam ajam bhanukotiprakasham!!

Traya shool nirmoolanam shoolpaanim! Bhajeham bhavanipatim bhaavgamyam!!

Kalaateet kalyaan kalpaantkaari! Sadaa sajjanananddaata purari!!

Chidanand sandoham mohapahari! Praseed praseed pramo manmathari!!

Na yaavad umanath padarvindam! Bhajantih lokey parey vaa naraanaam!!

Na taavtsukham shaanti santaapnasham! Praseed prabho sarvabhootadhivaasam!!

Na jaanaami yogam japam naivya pujaam! Natoham sadaa sarvada shambhu tubhyam!!

Jaraa janam dukhaudya taatapyamaanam! Prabho paahi aapannmaamish shambho!!

Shalok

Rudraashtakmidam proktam vipren hartoshaye!

Ye pathanti naraa bhaktaya teshaam shambhu praseedati!!

Mahamrityunjay Mantra

Aum trayambakam yajamahe sugandhim pushti vardhanam!

Urvaarukmiv bandhanaat mrityormukshiya maamritaat Aum!!

Meaning: {We worship Lord Shiva who has three eyes, who provides the life in all beings, who is looking after everyone in this world. We pray to him to free us from the cycle of births and deaths and merge our soul in the Supreme power just like a fruit frees itself from the tree after peaking up. Likewise make us to taste the divine water of your holy feet and make us to become one with you}

Twelve Jyotirlings

Saurashtrey somnatham cha shreeshailey mallikaarjunam!

Ujjainam mahakaalmonkarmamleshwaram!!

Parlayaam Baijnaatham cha daakinyaam bhimshankaram!

Setubandhey tu ramesham nagesham daarukaavane!

Varanasyaam tu vishvesham trayambakam gomtitatey!

Himalaye tu kedaram ghu srinesham shivalaye!!

Aitaani jyotirlingaani saanyam praatah patheynarr!

Saptajanamkritam paapam samarnen vinashyati!!

Shiv Stuti

Dhanya dhanya bholanath baant diye teeno lok pal bhar mein!

Aisey deendayal mere shambhu bharo khazana pal bhar mein!!

Pratham ved to brahma ko de diya bane ved ke adhikari!

Vishnu ko diya chakra sudarshan lakshmi si sundar naari!!

Indra ko diya kamdhenu aur airawat sa balkari!

Kuber ko kar diya aapne saari sampati ka adhikari!!

Apne paas paatra nahin rakha magan rahe baghambhar mein !

Aisey deendayal mere shambhu bharo khazana pal bhar mein!!

Amrit to devtaaon ko de diya aap halahal paan kiya!

Brahm-gyan de diya usi ko jisne shiv tera dhyaan kiya!!

Bhagirath ko de di Ganga sab jag ne snaan kiya!

Bade bade paapiyon ko taara palbhar mein kalian kiya!!

Aap nashey mein mast raho piyo bhang neet khapar mein!

Aisey deendayal mere shambhu bharo khazana pal bhar mein!!

Lanka to ravan ko di bees bhuja dus sheesh diye!

Ramchandra ko dhanush-baan aur hanumant ko jagdish diye!!

Manmohan ko de di mohini aur mukut bakhshish diye!

Mukta huye kaashi ke vaasi bhakti mein jagdish diye!!

Veenas to Narad ko de di hari bhajan ko raag diya!

Brahman ko karam-kaand aur sanyasi ko tyaag diya!!

Jis par tumri kripa bhai usi ko anngann raag diya!

Jisne dhayaya usi ne paaya mahadev tere var mein!!

Lord Shiva’s Aarti

Aum jai shiv omkara hari shiv omkara!

Brahma Vishnu sadashiv ardhaangi dhaara! Aum Har!!

Ekanan chaturanan panchanan raajey! Prabhu!!

Hansanan garudasan vrishvahan saajey! Aum Hari!!

Do bhuj chaar chaturbhuj dus bhuj te sohey! Prabhu!!

Teeno roop nirakhta tribhuvan jan mohey! Aum Har!!

Shwetambar pitambar baghambar angey! Prabhu!!

Sanakadik brahmadik bhootadik sangey! Aum Har!!

Akshamaala banmaala mundmaala dhari! Prabhu!!

Chandan mrigmad chanda bholey shubhkari! Aum Har!!

Kar madhey cha kamandal chakra trishul dharta! Prabhu!!

Jag karta jag harta jag palan karta! Aum Har!!

Chaunsath yogin gaavat nritya karat bhairon! Prabhu!!

Baajat taal mridanga aur baajat damru! Aum Har!!

Lakshmi var savitri shree parvati sangey! Prabhu!!

Ardhangini gayatri sir sohe gangey! Aum Har!!

Kaashi mein vishvanath viraajey nandey brahamchari! Prabhu!!

Neet uth bhog lagavein mahima ati bhaari! Aum Har!!

Brahma Vishnu sadashiv jaanat avivekaa! Prabhu!!

Pranvaakshar ke madhye yeh teeno eka! Aum Har!!

Trigun swamiji ki aarti jo koi nar gaavey! Prabhu!!

Kahat shivanand swami manovanchit var paavey! Aum Har!!

Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Prayer

The devotee should take flowers, rice, jaun, til in his/her hand and recite this prayer before starting the katha:-

Yam brahma varunendrarudramarutah stunvanti divyeeh staveervedey saadangpadkramopnishdeyaargaayanti yam saamgaah!

Dhyaanavaasthittadgatein mansa pashyanti yam yoginoh yasyaantam na viduh surasurgana devaay tasmeh namah!!

Meaning: {I bow to the Supreme power who is worshipped by Brahma, Varun, Indra and Marudgan by chanting of the veds’; the saints remain immersed in his memory and his end is beyond the imagination of the Devtas and the demons}

Shreemachandancharchitojjwalvapu shuklaambraamallika malaalangkritkundala pravilsnamuktavali shobhita!

Sarvagyannidaanpustakdhara rudrakshmaaladhara vagdevi vadnambujey vastu mein trailokmata chiram!!

Meaning: {Who’s body fragrances like sandalwood, who wears white clothes, whose neck sparkles with ornaments, who is the goddess of knowledge, who holds the rudrakshmaala in her hand; I bow to the goddess Saraswati and request her to make her abode in my mouth}

Mookam karoti vaachalam pangum langhyate girim!

Yatkripa tamham vandey parmanandmadhavam!!

Meaning: {By whose Grace the dumb can speak and the one-legged person can cross over the mountain; I worship my dear Madhav}

Namo bhagvatey tasmeh vyasayammittejsey!

Yasya prasadadwakshyami narayankathamimaam!!

Meaning: {I bow to the enlightened soul Vyasji with whose Grace I will say this holy story (katha)}

Narayanam namaskritya naram chaiv narottamam!

Devim sarasvatim vyasam tatoh jaymudiryet!!

Meaning: {I am writing “Jai Mahakavya” after worshipping Lord Narayan, Goddess Sarasvati and Shree Ved Vyas Ji}

After the completion of this prayer offer flowers, rice, jaun, til etc. to Mataji.

Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Outward Appearance

Suvarnavarnadeeptabhaam trinetraam kamlaasanaam!

Sinhsansamaseenaam sarvaalankaarbhushitaam!! 1!!

Nilotpaldharaam vaamey dakshiney vardaam subhaam!

Khadagcharamdharaam chaudharvam vaamdakshiney yoh kramaat!! 2!!

Chaturbhujaam cha maam tatra pujyed vrishketunaam!

Aevam dhayatvaa mahadevim swasthanim jagdishvaram!! 3!!

Meaning: {Glittering as gold, the three-eyed, whose face is like a lotus flower, who sits on the throne, attached with all ornaments, the four-armed, who has neelkamal in the upper left hand, varada in the upper right hand, khadaga in the lower left hand, charma in the lower right hand, such a powerful Goddess; we remember you the divine being}

Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat Katha

1st Adhyay

A long ago Kumarji arrived to meet saint Agastya on his means of transport, peacock. The saint welcomed him. Kumarji said– O Agastya Muniji, I will tell you about the formation of the universe, listen to me carefully. When the thought of creating the universe came in the God’s mind, He incarnated in the form of trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahadev. The Maya, also called nature, originated from Mahadevji. No one can overcome it. Above maya is peace, then knowledge and then is moksha i.e. salvation. Likewise there is a process of destruction of the nature/world. Maya can’t co-exist along with concentration, peace, knowledge, respect and detachment. God resides in the soul of one who is detached from maya. The soul is the essence of this universe, as prescribed by all the scriptures. The cycle of birth and death, happiness and sorrow is the base of the existence of the universe. I will tell you about the Padam kalpa.

Brahma is generator, Vishnu is operator and Shiva is destroyer of the universe. Vishnu and Shiva are ageless. Brahma’s age is hundred divine years after which the new world is created. The abode of Brahma is called Satyalok. His morning is equal to one complete cycle of nature. The four ages namely satyayug, traitayug, dwaparyug and kaliyug get over in Brahma’s one day. There is destruction of the universe called parlay after that cycle and there is complete destruction (parlay) after hundred such years. The same cycle is repeated again by the emergence of a new Brahma. He makes an egg like thing which comprises of five elements of the nature, ego, the knowledge senses, heart, mind, sound, feeling of touch, form, taste, smell etc. This egg is divided into two parts– male and female. Thu the world is the manifestation of the power of Brahma, Vishna and Mahadev. This supreme power is called the God. Sumeru parbat (rock) exists in the sea just like a child remains in the womb. Sun, moon and other constellations exist there.

There is no beginning, middle or the end of the Supreme God. The world exists on the desire of the God. The universe is immeasurable. There is different trinity of the God in every universe. The world is like a dream. The feelings of happiness and sorrow are just experience and the aim of human should be to merge with God. O Agastya Muni! You should pray as well. I have narrated to you the origin of the universe. I will narrate padma kalpa to you now.

2nd Adhyay

Kumarji said– O Agastya Muni! After the mahapralay (destruction) the world was zero. The God desired to start the universe. A lotus emerged in the Ksheersagar in the navel of Lord Vishnu. Four-faced Brahma originated from that lotus. There was itching in Lord Vishnu’s ear. From there emerged two demons– Madhu and Kaitabh. They intimidated Brahma who started worshipping maya to please Lord Vishnu. Maya, with the help of Sheshnaag, woke Vishnuji up. Lord Vishnu fought with those two demons for five thousand years. Lord Vishnu told them that he was impressed with their valour. The two got happy and asked Vishnuji to ask for a favour as they had overpowered him in their view. Vishnuji said on listening to their ego– promise me that you will grant me whatever I desire. The two demons said– Ask for anything. We will oblige. Lord Vishnu said– O Madhu and Kaitabh! Grant me the favour that both of you get killed from my hands. The demons said– O Vishnu! No brave man asks for such a favour but keeping up the promise is the essence of the brave hearts. So kill us but you cannot kill us in water. Lord Vishnu killed them by placing them on his thighs. Earth was formed from the skin of those demons, rocks from their flesh and stones from their bones. Brahma created Bhurlok, Bhuvarlok, Swarglok, Maharlok, Janlok, Taplok and Satyalok. The base of earth has Attal, Vittal, Suttal, Talattal, Mahattal, Rasattal and Pataal. The seven islands were created then namely Jambudweep, Kushdweep, Plakshdweep, Shalmalidweep, Kraunchdweep, Shaakdweep and Pushkardweep. The seven seas were created then namely Iksharsaud Sea, Suraud Sea, Dhritaud Sea, Kshiraud Sea, Dadhimandaud Sea, Shudwaud Sea and Kshaaraud Sea. Jambudweep was in the middle of Kshaaraud Sea. It was ruled by king called Agnidhra. Plakshdweep was in the middle of Ikshursaud Sea and ruled by king Ihamjihav. Shalmalidweep was in Suraud Sea and ruled by king Yagyabaahu. Kushdweep was in Dhritaud Sea and ruled by king Hiranya. Kraunchdweep was in Kshiraud Sea and ruled by king Dhritprishth. Shaakdweep was in Dadhimandaad Sea and ruled by king Medhateethi. Pushkardweep was in Shudhaudak Sea and ruled by king Veetihotra.

Jambudweep has nine sub-parts. Bharat name was given as it was situated in the Bharat-khand. The mountains were created after the creation of seas and

islands like Sumeru, Kailash, Gandhmaadan, Himalaya, Trikut, Chitrakoot, Chandrantak and Chandrakoot. Brahmaji desired to create human in the Jambudweep. He worshipped Lord Mahadev for twelve thousand years. Mahadevji was happy and asked Brahma to ask for the thing of his choice. Brahma said– O Lord! You are the originator, operator and destroyer of this world. I salute you the great Lord. Your being includes the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra. I bow to you million times. O Master! The universe got created with your blessings. Now I urge you to bless me to create human beings. Mahadevji replied– O Brahma! I bless you to create humans and so you will henceforth be called as the generator of the universe. Brahma bowed before Mahadevji and went away to Sumeru parbat for procreation. He created Brahmalok, Umalok, Shivlok, Vishnulok, Skandlok and Swarglok. Alkapuri in the north of Sumeru parbat, Airavati in the east, Yamapuri in the south, Shraddhavati in the west, Yashomati in the north-east, Krishnavati in the south-west, Gandhavati in the north-west and Shuddhavati in the south-east were created along with hundred saints. The elder saint was Kashyap Rishi. Agastya requested Kumarji to explain more about humans and Devtaas.

Kumarji said– O Agastya Muni! Kashyap Rishi had thirteen wives namely Diti, Aditi, Danu, Kaara, Daura, Sinhika, Krodha, Pradha, Balishtha, Vintaa, Kapila, Kadru and Manu. Diti gave birth to the demons like Hiranyaksh, Hiranyakashyap etc. Aditi gave birth to Devtaas like Indra, Chandra, Surya etc. Danu gave birth to demons like Vrishparva. Kaara and Daura gave birth to Gandharva, Chitrarath and Kinner etc. The others to born were Rahu from Sinhika; Krodh from Krodha; Rambha, Tilottma, Urvashi from Pradha; Koyal, Mayur, Muniyan, Jureiley, Ranichari, Dhovini,Luinchey from Balishtha; Arun Garud from Vinta; four-legged animals like cow, leopard, beer, horse, elephant etc. from Kapila; snakes from Kadru; humans from Manu. Thereafter eatables were created. What else do you want to know? asked Kumarji. Agastya said– I want to know who lives where.

Kumarji said– O Agastya muni! Brahmaji lives in the Satyalok, I reside in Skandlok, Mahadevji in Kailash, Dhumraketu in Dhumralok, Vishnuji in Baikunth, Rishis’ in nairatya bhuvan. Now listen about the Dikpal.

Lord Indra worshipped Mahadevji in the Himalayas. Mahadevji was happy and blessed Indra with the kingdom of Amravati. Agni too worshipped hard and got

to rule the Shuddhavati. Yama was bestowed the kingdom of Yamapuri and was asked to act as a judge. Niriti was given Krishnavati; Varun was given the kingdom of Shraddhavati. Fourty-nine sons of Diti worshipped Mahadevji and were made Vaayu, which can be felt and not seen.Kuber too worshipped and was awarded with the kingdom of Alkapuri and was made the lord of money. Likewise Vishvakarma was given Yashovati kingdom. Now I will tell you about Mahadevji’s wife Sati.

Kumarji said– Dakshaprajapati was the eldest among the eight Prajapatis. His wife was Virni. She gave birth to a daughter whose face sparkled like thousand suns. Her face was like moon. She was perfect with beautiful eyes. Daksha arranged her name-ceremony. Muni Vashishth gave her the name Sati. He said that she will be revered in the world. Daksha gave gifts to all the saints.

3rd Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Thirty-three crore girls were born from Virini. Daksha brought them up. Did they get married to the devtas? asked Agastya Muni. Kumarji said- O Muni! There was a meeting held of the Devtas, Rishis, Dikpals, Gandharvaas, Yakshaas and Naags. They decided to ask Dakshaprajapati to marry his daughters to them. They sent sage Narada to meet Daksha for this purpose. Daksha welcomed Narada and asked for the reason of his arriving. Narada talked about the marriage of Daksha’s daughters. Daksha was very happy for the proposal of marrying his daughters to the devtas but he refused to marry off his eldest daughter Sati since he didn’t have a boy. Daksha asked Narada to tell the devtas to make arrangements. All the Devtaas were happy to learn this. The marriages were solemnised with great fanfare.

When Mahadevji heard about these marriages from Narada, he thought that no one cared about his marriage. Mahadevji too desired to marry but pondered over the choice of girl. He meditated and realised that Dakshaprajapati’s eldest daughter Sati is still unmarried. He decided to go to Daksha’s home to discuss this matter. When Daksha saw Mahadevji coming to his abode, he asked his wife for the reason. When Mahadevji reached there Dakshaprajapati asked him the reason. Mahadevji replied- You have married your thirty-three crore daughters to the Devtaas. I request you to do a favour to me as well by marrying your eldest daughter Sati to me. I am a suitable match for her. Daksha was infuriated. His eyes got red and said- How dare you thought like that? You live in the shamshan; eat bhang, dhatura and poison; you wear lion’s skin; you live with the ghosts; you move on the old ox. How can you match up with my daughter who is like a lotus; dear-eyed; sweet-spoken and blessed with all good things? I can’t give my daughter’s hand to an unsuitable person like you. I am forgiving you this time but don’t say this thing to me in future. Mahadevji thought that Daksha has insulted me a lot and now I will definitely marry his daughter. He went to Baikunth to meet Lord Vishnu.

Lord Vishnu welcomed Mahadevji and said- Mahadevji! I am so happy that you graced my abode. Mahadevji said- O Vishnu! I am unmarried. I want to marry

Dakshaprajapati’s daughter Sati. I went to meet Daksha on this account but he insulted me. Please help me in this matter.

Lord Vishnu said- O Mahadevji! Wait here for some time. I will go to meet Dakshaprajapati and try to convince him. Vishnuji went to meet Daksha who felt happy to welcome him and asked for the reason of his arrival. Lord Vishnu said- I want a favour from you. Daksha promised to fulfil his desire. I am the Lord of Baikunth. Give your eldest daughter to me. Dakshaprajapati said- I didn’t marry her as I don’t have a son. But since I have promised you, I will marry her to you at an appropriate time. Vishnuji went back happily and told Mahadevji- I have done the work assigned by you. Come to Daksha’s home at the time of the kanyadaan and demand Sati’s hand fom me. When I will refuse, show anger to me. I will ask you to sit near me and ask the pujari to initiate marriage proceedings. I will then hypnotise Daksha and get you married to his daughter. Mahadevji went back to Kailash on hearing this.

4th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Lord Vishnu reached at Daksha’s residence on the marriage day where preparations were nicely done by Virni. Mahadevji, under the influence of bhaang, dhatura and vish, forgot to reach there. Vishnuji was concerned that why Mahadevji had not reached there. Suddenly Mahadevji reached there in the disguise of an old monk. Dakshaprajapati, Virni and Satidevi thought that he might have come to obtain some donation (bhiksha). Mahadevji told them- Give me the bhiksha before solemnising the marriage otherwise I will curse you. Lord Vishnu asked Mahadevji to sit near him and assured that he will be rewarded timely.

As per the pre decided plan Vishnuji put Sati’s hand in the hand of Mahadevji to sanctify their marriage. Daksha angrily said- O Vishnu! You are a cheat. You deceived us and got my delicate daughter married to this old monk. Lord Vishnu left for Baikunth. Daksha said to Sati- Dear daughter! You have got this old man as your husband because of Vishnu’s cheating. Now you have to live with him. Sati was saddened but accepted her fate and decided to accept him as her husband.

Mahadevji said- O Sati! Take permission from your parents to leave from here. They moved afterwards. Mahadevji said to Sati after they had covered some distance- You have lived a luxurious life. You must be feeling difficulty in walking here so move slowly. Sati replied- Dear! I am young. You are old so you should walk slowly. They reached near Kailash parbat after some time. Mahadevji converted that place into shabby hut to test Sati’s patience and said- O Sati! This is our home. Search for food inside. Mahadevji took a nap after consuming bhang and dhatura.

Sati reminded her parents and their palace on seeing the deplorable condition there. She started to clean the house and searched for something to eat but found nothing. She came and sat near Mahadevji who was pretending to sleep. He woke up after four days and said- How dare you sleep inside when I was sleeping outside. You ate food alone. Sati replied- O dear! I didn’t disturb you since you were asleep. I didn’t sleep but was waiting for you to wake up. I have eaten the good things in your home. Mahadevji was humbled by her approach

and said- Dear! This is not our home. Just peep inside this hut. Sati said- What is the need to look at home there. Who will make a new one in your old age? Mahadevji kicked that hut and they saw the ornamented abode, Kailash parbat. Sati wondered that whose home it was. Mahadevji said- This is our home. He took her inside. Mahadevji showed her his real appearance and Sati was over the moon with unbound joy on learning that her husband is in fact Lord Shiva and not an old monk. She garlanded him and took three circles of him. They started living happily thereafter.

5th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! All of Dakshaprajapati’s daughters got married. What do you want to hear now? Agastya Muni replied- Your words have filled my conscience with endless joy. Please explain to me the story of Tripurasur demons. Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! A demon named May ruled the demon kingdom after Lord Vishnu killed Hiranyaaksh and Hirankashyap. His associates were Tarkaaksh, Vidyutmaali etc. They contemplated to increase their power through meditation in order to overpower the devtaas. They meditated in the Himalayas in the cold weather, in desert in the hot weather and also in the monsoon weather to please Brahma. As a result they became like the skeletons. Their faces glistened due to meditation. Brahmaji was pleased with their devotion and asked them to ask for a boon something. They said- Give us the boon that we don’t get killed by someone; no one is more powerful than us. Provide us a wonderful abode, akin to Kuber’s. Brahma said- Even I am not ever living. Ask for something else. They said- All three of us should have a palace each in the sky. After ten thousand years these palaces should get attached for a fraction of second. Whosoever can destroy it during that time may be able to kill us. Brahma blessed them. The three palaces created were of iron, silver and gold. The peak of the Sumeru parbat was visible from that kingdom. That kingdom sparkled and had all the luxuries of the world. It was more beautiful than the Indrapuri. The demons lived there with their wives and ministers. They started attacking the places of the devtaas and insulted their ladies. Urvashi was kidnapped by them. The Devtaas feared them and complained to Brahma about it. Brahmaji advised them to go to Mahadevji as the demons had become extra powerful due to the boon. The Devtaas prayed to Mahadevji- O Supreme Lord! You have blessed Nandi, you help your devotees, you are the deity of yagya and you operate the world. We salute you. You control the sun, moon and other constellations, you can take any form, you keep ghosts along with you and you are the father of great sons like Ganesh and Kumar Kartiekey and husband of Parvati. We bow before you.

Mahadevji was pleased with their prayers and asked them to ask for any boon of their choice.

The Devtaas replied- O God! Tripurasur demons have destroyed our kingdoms. They misbehave with our ladies. They have stolen good things from our places. We are unable to defeat them. Mahadevji said- Inculcate a part of my power in you. They said- Your power can’t be handled by us. The three kingdoms will unite for a moment after ten thousand years. That’s when you can destroy that kingdom and pave way for the end of the demons. Mahadevji said- Make preparations for my departure to do this work. I will destroy the kingdom with one arrow. Vishvakarma created the cart whose wheels were sun, moon and twenty-seven constellations. Ganga and Yamuna were made the clothes of the cart and Brahma was made the charioteer. Maya was made the rope to control the cart, Vindhyachal parbat the umbrella, four vedaas were made the four horses of the cart. It was the best possible cart ever. When Mahadevji sat on it the earth shook. There was flower-rain on Mahadevji who was accompanied by Ganesh, Nandi and other associates. Sage Narada informed the demons about the arrival of Mahadevji to kill them. The demons boasted that no one has the power to kill them. It might be an illusion of the Devtaas. They decided to take away the kingdom of the Devtaas in retaliation. May demon warned his associates that Mahadevji is in the side of the Devtaas. He said- Even Brahma lives under Mahadevji’s feet. To fight with him is like inviting death. We should rather surrender to him. Narada said- You have outlived the period of the boon attained by you. Mahadevji don’t like cowards. Fight with him. Even if you die at his hands you will secure a place in Kailash. Otherwisw you will have to remain subservient to the devtaas. Demon Tarkaksh seconded Narada’s opinion as their end was coming near. They decided to fight war against the devtaas. The armies of both sides reached the war place. Mahadevji’s associates like Ganesh, Nandi, Virbhadra, Bhrigi fought war with them. The war lasted for many days. The demons were killed ruthlessly. May consoled his associates and asked them to reach near the Amritkund. The dead demons got alive with the effect of the Amritkund. Brahmaji said to Mahadevji- The dead demons are getting alive. We have to destroy the Amritkund to stop this process. The time has come to destroy the three kingdoms when they will attach for a moment. Mahadevji destroyed those unified kingdoms with one arrow. The houses of the demons started to tumble. Mahadevji sent Nandi to tell Vishvakarma to save May. Nandi searched for May demon who was worshipping the Shivling at a quiet place. Nandi asked Agni dev not to harm

May. Nandi asked May to leave for some other place. May left for Pataal with Shivling in his hands. Nandi informed Mahadevji about all this.

The Tripur kingdom was destroyed. The lineage of the demons was getting destroyed. They were waiting for their death as they had opposed Mahadevji. Tripur got immersed in the ocean after destruction. The devtaas were too glad and showered praises on Mahadevji. They said- O Mahadevji! Only you are capable of doing impossible things. We bow at your feet. Mahadevji said- Dear Devtaas! I care for you as a father cares for his children. I have destroyed Tripur kingdom. Now you all can rest in peace. Mahadevji left for kailash and Devtaas moved to their respective places.

Kumarji said to Agastya- O Muni! This is a very pious story. The devotee who narrates this story and who listens to it gets unlimited grace of the God and gets a place in the Shivdhaam.

6th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! I have told you the story of Tripur destruction. What else do you want to hear? Agastya replied- Kumarji! Tell me in detail what happened after Daksha married all his daughters.

Listen. After that Daksha said to his wife Virni- I am contemplating to perform Ashvamedh yagya. Start making preparations regarding that. Invite everyone for this occasion except Mahadev and Sati. All the daughters and sons-in-law of Dakshaprajapati were invited. They all arrived there on the day of ceremony and were welcomed cheerfully by Daksha. The yagya started as per the rituals. Narada muni arrived there to see that who was invited and who wasn’t. He noticed Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Indra, all Devtaas, Gandharvas, Kinners, Sages present there but Mahadevji and Sati were not there. He wondered how a yagna could be performed without the presence of Mahadevji. In the Kailash parbat Mahadevji said to Sati- Let’s play card-game today. Mahadevji lost many ornaments to Sati. Sati noticed that Devtaas were going somewhere on their vehicles. She wanted to know where they were all going to. Mahadevji tried to divert her attention. They restarted playing and Mahadevji lost everything but he was laughing. He said now I will bet on the parts of my body. Sati said- There is nothing more precious and sacred in this world than your body. We are one ever since you married me. Why are you lowering me in my eyes by stating this? Your body is already mine. I don’t need to win it. Just then Narada reached there and greeted them.

Mahadevji wanted to know the reason of his arrival. Narada said- O Supreme God! No work in this world can accomplish without your blessings. You help and take care of your devotees. I salute you many times. Mahadevji asked Narada to ask for a boon. Narada said- Bless me to remain your devotee forever. Mahadevji noticed anxiety on Narada’s face and asked for the reason. Narada replied- Dakshaprajapati is performing a yagya. He has invited everyone on this occasion except you and Sati Devi. I am wondering how a yagya can be completed without your presence. Why didn’t you go there? Sati Mata was sad to hear that and asked Mahadevji- O God! All my sisters have been invited. Why has my father ignored me? Mahadevji replied- O Sati! Don’t

get disheartened. I am not dear to your father. That’s why he didn’t invite us. We don’t need to go there. Ask for anything, I will bring it here. Sati realised that Mahadevji knew about all this and that’s why he diverted my attention towards the game. Sati said- Hey Mahadevji! I want to go there and ask them that why I was not invited. Permit me to go there along with Narada ji. I will return soon. Mahadevji replied- O Sati! Don’t insist on going there. Sati was adamant and left for that place. On reaching there she asked her parents- Am I not your daughter? Why didn’t you invite me? Is Mahadevji not your son-in- law? How can a yagya be completed without him? The universe is nil without my husband. I advise you to invite him. Dakshaprajapati replied- Dear daughter! Your husband is not worthy of being invited in this gathering where everyone has come well-dressed. Your husband is the embodiment of all negativity. He wears skulls and lives with the ghosts. I feel ashamed in inviting him. That’s why I didn’t invite you as well. You are not culprit, your husband is. The Lord of yagya is Vishnuji. Mahadev is nothing. All the Gods and saints are present here to complete this yagya. Sati got upset to hear her husband’s insult. She could not tolerate her husband’s insult and started taking circles of the yagyakund while chanting Mahadevji’s name. She jumped into that yagyakund and burnt herself to death. She later took birth as the daughter of Himalaya and Maneka.

7th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! All those present on the occasion were petrified at Sati’s act because they were well aware of Mahadevji’s anger. The weather changed, there was thunderstorm and darkness. The Devtaas started running from there as their eyes faced sandstorm. The children started weeping. Daksha was clueless and asked Guru Brahaspati the reason for this.

Narada went straight to Kailash from there and said to Mahadevji- O God! Your beloved Sati finished her life after Daksha abused you. He had said that Mahadev is not worthy of revering and that’s why he hadn’t invited him. Sati Mata was burning with anger after hearing your insult and suddenly she jumped into the yagya-kund. Agni could not dare to touch her; she herself gave up her life. It seems she is sleeping there. I have come to inform you about this tragedy. Mahadevji asked if it was true to which Narada said how he could dare to speak a lie to him. Mahadevji got enraged. His eyes were burning with fire. He said- No one can save that evil person Daksha now. I will finish him. Narada moved from there.

Mahadevji’s eyes were spitting fire. He tore a hair from his head and threw it on the land. There was a thunder and Virbhadra emerged with a trishul in his hand. The second hair of Mahadevji produced yogini Kaali Devi whose laughter terrified everyone. Lord Shiva said- O Virbhadra and Kaali! Go and destroy Daksha’s yagya and don’t spare the thirty-three crore devtaas either. Nandi, Bhringi etc. will accompany you. Virbhadra, Kaali and others moved from there. There were natural calamities happening on the earth.

Daksha’s yagya got disrupted by unforeseen reasons. Crows and eagles flew above and there was blood rain as well. Everyone, including the children and elders, were looking for cover. Virbhadra and Kaali destructed the yagya place. Daksha’s guests thought that only Lord Vishnu could save them. Lord Vishnu’s army started to fight with Virbhadra’s army. Indra and other devtaas threw weapons like Brahmastra, Aagneyastra, Varunastra, Tomar, Khadaga, Musal etc. at them. Virbhadra countered them properly. Kaali was harming the army of the Devtaas. The army of Daksha started wailing due to fear.

Lord Vishnu was angry with Virbhadra and Kaali and started to fight with them. Everyone hailed him and joined the course of action. Mahakaali cut into pieces the army of Daksha and started wearing their skulls in her neck. Vishnuji stiked hard at Virbhadra’s chest due to which he got unconscious. Vishnuji attached same fate to others. The devtaas spread flowers on Vishnuji. After a while Virbhadra got up and striked at Vishnuji with his trishul. Vishnuji fell down. Virbhadra’s army too got up and hailed him. They unleashed themselves on the army of the Devtaas.

O Agastya Muni! Virbhadra and Kaali were defeating the devtaas. Kaali was drinking their blood. Their army was hailing them. Lord Vishnu got up and said to Virbhadra- O evil Virbhadra! I will kill you and get Daksha’s yagya to be completed. No one can save you now. My sudarshan-chakra will end your life. Virbhadra said- O evil Vishnu! Don’t just intimidate me. Strike me if you have courage. Lord Vishnu directed his sudarshan-chakra at him. The powerful chakra moved towards Virbhadra and Kaali. Their army was petrified and surrendered. Then Mahadevji appeared and swallowed the sudarshan-chakra to save Virbhadra. Lord Vishnu called back his sudarshan-chakra and proceeded towards Baikunth.

8th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! After the departure of Lord Vishnu rest of the Devtaas, Yakshas, Kinners, demons etc. started to run. Everyone was of the view that now no one can save Dakshaprajapati from the anger of Mahadevji as even sudarshan-chakra could not stand in front of Mahadevji. Then Virbhadra threw Daksha on earth and said- O evil! You abused Mahadevji and Sati Mata finished her life because of you. You are a low and mean person. Now tell which son-in-law of yours can come to your rescue now. How can you now complete your yagya without Mahadevji? We will get happy by putting you in the havan-kund. Virbhadra cut Daksha prajapati’s head from his sword and put it in the havan-kund. Virbhadra’s associates hailed him and danced.

O Agastya Muni! Virni fell down after seeing the fate of her husband Dakshaprajapati. She wailed in front of her husband’s body and said- O dear! Why have you left me? You met this fate because you insulted Mahadevji. She requested to Virbhadra- O God! My husband is ignorant, egoist and foolish. Please forgive him. You are very mighty. Please give back my husband to me.

The Devtaas rained flowers on Virbhadra from the sky and prayed to him to bring back Daksha to life. Virbhadra sympathised with Virni and said- O Virni! I have burnt your husband’s head. I can put the head of a goat in place of his head to bring him back to life. He insulted Mahadevji and that’s why he will have to live like an animal. Virni agreed. Daksha got alive by getting goat’s head. He hailed Virbhadra, Mahakaali and others and left from there.

Virbhadra, Mahakaali and their associates reached kailash and bowed before Mahadevji and said- O God! We defeated Daksha’s army and Devtaas, destroyed Daksha’s yagya and cut his head but gave him the head of a goat on persistence requests from Virni. Mahadevji was happy and said- O Virbhadra and Mahakaali! You both are great. I am happy with your valour. Mahadevji absorbed them in his body.

O Agastya Muni! Mahadevji reached the place where Sati’s body lay. He put her body on his shoulders and wept. He said- O Sati! The Kailash is lacklustre without you. My life is meaningless. You used to sit near me and hear stories.

What will I do now? You met this fate because you didn’t heed my advice. You always took care of things fond to me. Who will do that now? You always washed my feet whenever I reached home. Mahadevji cried by keeping her body on his shoulders. The dead body started smelling.

O Agastya Muni! I will tell you the reason of Daksha’s indifferent attitude towards Mahadevji. Once upon a time Prayagraj performed a yagya by congregating the saints. Everyone, including Mahadevji, was invited for the occasion. When Daksha arrived at that place everyone present there, including Brahmaji, got up from their seat and wished him. Mahadevji didn’t do that. Daksha criticised Mahadevji and showered abuses on him. He said- I am denouncing him from now on and will not give him the respect that other Devtaas get. Nandi was enraged and abused Daksha- O evil! You are ignorant about Mahadevji’s power. You have abused him in front of the saints. I curse you that you and other Brahmans will remain limited just to bless others, not more than that. Mahadevji pacified Nandi and said- I can’t curse Brahmans and Vedaas. You should know that Daksha’s curse can’t harm me. Daksha became an enemy of Mahadevji since then.

Now I will tell you about the places where the body parts of Sati fell and the Shaktipeeths which originated there as an outcome of that.

9th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Everyone was saddened to see Mahadevji’s state of affairs. The universe was not functioning properly. Indra and other Devtaas requested Vishnuji to find a solution because the world order had been disturbed as Mahadevji was carrying the dead body of Sati on his shoulders.

Vishnuji assured to help them. He created a fly that started tearing apart Sati’s body. Those body parts fell at different places. Brahma created a Shivling at all those places. Mahadevji resided at every place in form of Shiv-Shakti. The story of the positioning of the body parts of Sati and the Shivlings is as follows. Gugmeshwari Devi, Chandraghanta yogini and Sidheshwar Mahadev in Nepal (place where back part of the body fell). The Devtaas worshipped there and got a blessing to become deities in all the four ages (yugas). Kaaamrup peeth, Kaamakshya Devi and Chakreshwar Mahadev in Kaamrup (place where chest fell). The yakshas worshipped there and were blessed to become famous in the three worlds. Kashipeeth, Vishalaksha Devi, Sankata yogini and Vishveshwar Mahadev in Kashi (place where head fell). The gandharvas worshipped there and were blessed that their prophecies will prove true.

Porbandh peeth, Ambika Devi, Chandravega, Yogini, Dhaneshwar Mahadev in Porbandh (place where the right ear fell). The demons worshipped there and were blessed to win over the devtaas. Kashmir peeth, Sharda Devi, Ghorghanta yogini, Dharamdhareshwar Mahadev in Kashmir (place where tongue fell). The Kinners worshipped there and were blessed that their words will come true. Kanyabuooj peeth, Jhankeshwari Devi, Dugdheshwar Mahadev in Kannauj (place where the skin of the body fell). Ravana worshipped there and was blessed to win over the devtaas. Purnagiri peeth, Kapaalkundala yogini, Chandreshwar Mahadev in Purnagiri (place where the other ear fell). The Apsaraas worshipped there and were blessed to reach the pinnacle of music and dance. Chamundachal peeth, Prakampni Devi, Kalika yogini, Ichchavikareshwar Mahadev in Chamundachal (place where nails fell). Saint Narada worshipped there and was blessed to speak out true foresight. Astaachal peeth, Karteshwari Devi, Ekakshi yogini, Nidrapatishwar Mahadev in

Astaachal (place where the right hand fell). Radha worshipped there and was blessed to become the divine mate of Lord Krishna and that she will always remain in his right place. Ekaveer peeth, Sidheshwari Devi, Siddha yogini, Dughdeshwar Mahadev in Ekaveer (place where the other hand fell). Kaalmasaan worshipped there and was blessed to perform the last rites of all dead people. Trishvait peeth, Mahakaleshwari Devi, Vikatdanta yogini, Tripureshwar Mahadev in Trishvait parbat (place where the Maldwar fell). Yamaraj worshipped there and was made the God of death. Kaamroshth peeth, Kaamini Devi, Kaameshwar Mahadev in Kaamroshth (place where neck fell). Prithvi worshipped there and was blessed to be the origin place of life- cycle and nature. Kailash peeth, Parvati Devi, Ambika yogini, Vishveshwar Mahadev in Kailash parbat (place where the right foot fell). Brahma worshipped there and was made the originator of life. Bhrigu peeth, Mitakshi Devi, Brahmadaah yogini, Satyeshwar Mahadev in Bhrigu (place where the front teeth fell). King Dharamdutt worshipped there and was blessed to remain victorious in wars. Kedar peeth, Kedareshwari Devi, Chamunda yogini, Koteshwar Mahadev in Kedar (place where the hand fell). The eleven Rudraas worshipped there and were blessed to possess divine powers. Chandrapur peeth, Siddheshwari Devi, Prakasheshwar Mahadev in Chandrapur (place where the right eye fell). The ten Dikpaals worshipped there and were blessed with power. Shreepaath Bhadra yogini, Kamleshwar Mahadev in Shreepaath (place where Taalu fell). Ashtavasu worshipped there and were blessed that their desire will come true.

Ekaveer peeth, Ekaveera Devi, Gauraksha yogini, Haatkeshwar Mahadev in Ekaveer (place where the navel fell). Naags worshipped there by offering jewels. Mahadevji blessed them to become the owners of Sapt-pataal lok. Jalandhar peeth, Jalpadevi, Jwalamukhi yogini, Pishacheshwar Mahadev in Jalandhar (place where the lower lip fell). Kamdhenu worshipped there and was blessed that her cowdung and urine will be regarded pious. Mallavi peeth, Mahakali Devi, Karala yogini, Dhootpaapeshwar Mahadev in Mallavi (place where the lower parts of the feet fell). The Sun (Surya) worshipped there and was blessed to shine all throughout the year. Kushlantak peeth, Shamshan Kali Devi, Bhootghanta yogini, Kshineshwar Mahadev in Kushlanta (place where the hair of the head fell). The twenty-seven Nakshatraas (Constellations) worshipped there and were blessed to govern the astrology.

Devikot peeth, Bhadrakshi yogini, Mateshwar Mahadev in Devikot (place where both the knees fell). The twelve Astro-signs (Raashis) worshipped there and were assigned to govern the fate of the human beings. Gokarna peeth, Bhayhara Devi, Ekdanta yogini, Yagyeshwar Mahadev in Gokarna (place where both ears fell). Vishkumbha and other Yogaas worshipped there and were assigned to play a prominent role in the astrology. Maatuleshwar peeth, Yogeshwari Devi, Pingla yogini, Budhradheshwar Mahadev in Maatuleshwar (place where the right breast fell). Kashyap and other sages worshipped there and were blessed with the lordship of the vedaas. Atthahas peeth, Bhramri Devi, Shankhdhara yogini, Shatbhuteshwar Mahadev in Atthahas (place where the lower lip fell). Ganga, Vaagmati and other sacred rivers worshipped there. They were blessed to purify the living beings who will take bath in their holy waters. Vishva peeth, Bhuvneshwari Devi, Bhawani yogini, Krishanvarneshwar Mahadev in Vishva (place where the breasts fell). Lord Shree Krishna worshipped there and was blessed that He will possess the art of winning over the hearts of the women.

10th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Thereafter following Peeths were created. Rajgriha peeth, Rajrajeshwari Devi, Ulkamukhi yogini, Hareshwar Mahadev in Rajgriha (place where the elbow fell). Vaayu worshipped there and became the life-force of all living beings. Mahapanth peeth, Prachanda-Chandika Devi, Renuka yogini, Vishvamitreshwar Mahadev in Mahapanth (place where both elbows fell). Vishvavasu worshipped there and were blessed to hypnotise the Devtaas. Kolapur peeth, Mahalakshmi Devi, Narmada yogini, Shamshankshneshwar Mahadev in Kolapur (place where the Udara fell). Garuda worshipped there and was sanctioned to have snakes as his food. Ekapur peeth, Ratnadevi, Shankupasha yogini, Unmateshwar Mahadev in Ekapur (place where the right toe fell). The Stones worshipped there to be blessed to be worshipped as the Devtaas.

Omkar peeth, Matrika Devi, Puradari yogini, Santaneshwar Mahadev in Omkareshwar (place where the upper lip fell). Kalpavriksha worshipped there and was blessed that whosoever will desire anything in front of him will get his/her desire fulfilled. Jayantipur peeth, Jayanti Devi, Khechra yogini, Kalpeshwar Mahadev in Jayantipur (place where the heart fell). Tulsi and Kusha worshipped there and Mahadevji blessed them that their presence will be must in all religious rituals. Ujjain peeth, Mahakali Devi, Lallajjivha yogini, Jhankeshwar Mahadev in Ujjain (place where the blood-lets fell). Himalya parbat worshipped there and was blessed to be a salvation provider. Chitrapur peeth, Suvarneshwari Devi, Chitravarna yogini, Vayevyeshwar Mahadev in Chitrapur (place where the right ear fell). Yoginigans worshipped there and were blessed to provide the result of the yagyas. Kshirikapur peeth, Yugadi Devi, Kaldanka yogini, Sahastreshwar Mahadev in Kshirikapur (place where the stomach fell). The Maatrikagans worshipped there and were awarded the lordship of the place. Hastinapur peeth, Chandeshwari Devi, Kotra yogini, Musukhareshwar Mahadev in Hastinapur (place where the right shoulder fell). The Sudarshan-chakra worshipped there and was given the power of destruction. Uddiyaan peeth, Vikla Devi, Pingala yogini, Yaksheshwar Mahadev in Uddiyaan (place where the head fell). Hanumanji worshipped there and Mahadevji blessed him to destroy the Lanka and be the greatest devotee of

Lord Rama. Prayag peeth, Sinhajangha yogini, Mahendreshwar Mahadev in Prayag (place where the kidneys fell). The Dashavtaars worshipped there and were blessed to take incarnation in all the four Yugaas to finish the demons. Vishvapeeth, Jhankeshwari Devi, Jhankali yogini, Kundaleshwar Mahadev in Vishva (place where the lung fell). Vishvakarma worshipped there and was blessed to attain fame till eternity. Mayapur peeth, Mahadevi, Chanchalakshi yogini, Tapseshwar Mahadev inHaridwar (place where the blood-purifying vein called Tilli fell). The sixty-four Lingaas worshipped there and were blessed to remain respectable. Mallagiri peeth, Mallika Devi, Kalankjivha yogini, Umeshwar Mahadev in Mallagiri (place where both elbows fell). The ghosts worshipped in that dangerous forest and were blessed to remain near Mahadevji. Sherpur peeth, Umadevi, Ashtvaktra yogini, Yogeshwar Mahadev in Sherpur (place where Taalu fell). Satya (truth) worshipped there and was blessed to help those who walk on the path of truth and righteousness. Harshagiri peeth, Vajreshwari Devi, Kamla yogini, Dharamdhwansheshwar Mahadev in Harshagiri (place where Aasana fell). Kali worshipped there and was empowerd to divert the human mind to the wrong path. Neelgiri peeth, Sarla yogini, Aanandeshwar Mahadev in Neelgiri (place where Mukuta fell). Sun and other planets worshipped there and were blessed to provide good and bad results in astrology. Merugiri peeth, Purna Devi, Kapala yogini, Jivhapateshwar Mahadev in Merugiri (place where Shuchisthan fell). The Naags worshipped there and were blessed. Mahendra peeth, Indrakshi Devi, Udharvagamna yogini, Tarkeshwar Mahadev in Mahindrachal (place where right Tighra fell). Lakshmi Mata worshipped there and was given boon that she will be worshipped by all on one particular day. That day is Deepawali. Vaanarpur peeth, Kameshwari Devi, Bherunda yogini, Vedanteshwar Mahadev in Vaanarpur (place where both legs fell). Lotus and other flowers worshipped there and were blessed. Hiranyapur peeth, Ratneshwari Devi, Tripurendra yogini, Naradeshwar Mahadev in Hiranyapur (place where womb fell). Goddess Saraswati worshipped there and was blessed to become the deity of education. Mahalakshmipur peeth, Kamalakshi Devi, Digambar yogini, Trikuteshwar Mahadev inMahalakshmipur (place where left part of the leg fell). Ashtasidhis’ like Aanim worshipped there and were blessed to remain safe from destruction. Umeshpur peeth, Tripursundari Devi, Sushankodri yogini, Bhairaveshwar mahadev in Umeshpur (place where the lower part of

the waist fell). The clouds worshipped there and were made the Gods of rain. The rest of the body parts fell in Chchayapur. Chchayakshatra peeth, Chatreshwar Devi, Sukomala yogini, Pishacheshwar Mahadev originated there. Kaal and eight Bhairavs worshipped there and they were awarded the lordship of Maatrikagana. O Agastya muni! A peeth originated at every place where the body parts of Sati Mata fell. The peeths are seven and a half crores in number. Whosoever goes to any of these peeths with devotion, gets his/her desire fulfilled.

11th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Lord Shiva was inconsolable even after the body of Sati ceased to exist. A demon named Tarakasur thought that it was right time to attack the devtaas and wrest Amravati from them as Mahadevji was wandering subconsciously. His army waged the war and the Devtaas were petrified from those powerful demons. The Devtaas ran away from there and took shelter in the Mrigasthal. Tarkasur brought Amravati under his control. When Mahadevji reached Mrigasthal the devtaas prayed to him- O Almighty! Mata Sati’s body is not on your shoulders anymore. Please take care of us now. We have taken resort here as evil Tarakasur has become powerful because of your boon. Kill him and save us. Mahadevji opened his eyes and looked at them. He didn’t respond to them and went away crying for Sati. O Agastya muni! The whole world was under the spell of sorrow at that time. When hundred years passed away, Mahadevji thought- Sati has left me. What should I do now? He thought to spend time in meditation. He reached Brahamputra in Karnataka in the south. The saints there had gone to take bath. Their wives rued the sad state of Mahadevji as he had become weak. They decided to follow him. The saints came to know about this and met Mahadevji and asked him why he was taking away their wives. Mahadevji said- Why would I steal your wives? The saints pointed towards the women who were following him. The saints got angry and cursed him that his Mahadev-Jyotirling shall fall. When the Mahadev-Jyotirling fell there the world started to collapse. The Devtaas were petrified. Lord Vishnu appeared there and started worshipping the Mahadev-Jyotirling. The saints hailed Lord Vishnu. Vishveshwar Mahadev appeared from that Jyotirling and said- O Rishis! You cursed me without any fault of me. Your words will not remain pure now. Your women won’t believe in you. To get over from this curse, you will have to do meditation by controlling your senses. Only then you will be able to save your wives from the effect of my curse.

12th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Giriraj Himalaya performed many religious rituals when he learnt that his wife Maneka was pregnant. A girl took birth after ten months whose face shone like the sun and whose eyes were very beautiful. The astrologers said to Himalaya- Your daughter’s name will be Parvati. She will get married to Mahadevji and will have world under her feet. She will demolish the demons. Himalaya presented gifts to the astrologers. Parvati started growing like the moon. She used to make Shivlings of sand and play with them. One day Narada muni said to Lord Vishnu in Baikunth- O Lord! Himalaya’s daughter Parvati is perfectly beautiful. You are the best match for her and should marry her. Vishnuji asked- Will Himalaya marry her to me? Narada assured him to talk to Himalaya on this matter and reached Himalaya’s residencs and said to him- O Giriraj! I want your daughter to get married to Lord Vishnu. Himalaya was happy. Narada informed this to Vishnuji. Himalaya made adequate arrangements of the marriage of her daughter and invited Guru Vashishth and the Devtaas. Lord Vishnu reached the marriage place on the day of the marriage. Parvati’s friends asked her- Do you know that you are being married to Vishnuji today? Parvati replied- I have always desired to marry Mahadevji. I will end my life if I am married to someone else. Her friends said- If this is your wish then you should leave this place. We will take you to an unknown place where no one else will find you. Parvati left for the forest with them. Others searched for her when the time to marry drew nearer. Lord Vishnu and others left the place. Parvati was worshipping at that place by making a Shivling of sand to please Mahadevji. Two demons named Praghosh- Damghosh got attracted to her there and teased her. Suddenly Mahadevji appeared from the Shivling of sand and asked her- O Shailputri! Why are you worshipping me? What do you want? Parvati bowed to him and said- O Lord! I want to marry you. I was being married to Lord Vishnu and to avoid that I have come to this place. Please save me. Mahadevji said- I cant’t marry you without your parents’ consent. Pray to Vishnuji and request to him to show you a way. Parvati happily moved for her home.

Himalaya was angry at her. Parvati said- O father! I want to marry Mahadevji since childhood. Himalaya recalled the prediction of the astrologer who had

said that Parvati will get married to Mahadevji. Parvati worshipped Lord Vishnu who came to bless her in his divine four-armed form and asked her to ask for a boon of her choice. Parvati said that she wants to marry Mahadevji. Vishnuji said- I will tell you about a great fast of “Shree Swasthani Mataji”. It can fulfil your desire. Lord Vishnu told her the procedure of the fast and the outward appearance of Mataji. {It has been thoroughly explained in the chapters earlier named Vrat’s Procedure and Mataji’s Outward Appearance}

Lord Vishnu said to Parvati- O Parvati! Keep this fast with utmost devotion. After its completion Mahadevji will bless you and fulfil your eternal desire. Parvati was very happy to hear that and hailed Lord Vishnu.

13th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Parvati started the fast in the right earnest and with proper procedure. She started revering Swasthani Mataji and Mahadevji. Indra said to the other devtaas- The end time of Tarakasur is near. With the grace of Mata Swasthani, Parvati will marry Mahadevji. Their son will ultimately kill Tarakasur. Mahadevji has become detached after Sati’s demise. We need Kamdev’s services to generate the feelings of love in Mahadevji’s heart. Vaayu called Kamdev. Indra told him- O Kamdev! Mahadevji is meditating hard these days by controlling his sense organs. You go and generate the feeling of love and pleasure in his heart. Kamdev followed their order and directed the arrow of love towards Mahadevji at an appropriate time. Mahadevji wondered about the effect caused by this phenomenon. He boiled with anger when he came to knew that Kamdev had caused this to him. Kamdev got perished with the effect of Mahadevji’s anger that emanated from his third eye. Kamdev’s wife Rati prayed to Mahadevji- O Lord! My husband is innocent. He came here at the behest of Indra. You are kind and a protector of good souls. Please give back life in my husband. Mahadevji sympathised with Rati and said- O Rati! Lord Vishnu will incarnate as Lord Krishna in the Dwapar Yug. Kamdev will take birth as Krishna’s son and you both will get united then. Mahadevji decided to meditate to assess where Sati had taken birth.He saw with his divine eyes that Sati had taken birth as Parvati and she wants to marry him. Mahadevji took a disguised form of Indra and reached where Parvati was worshipping him and Swasthani Mata. She said O Mata! You are the divine force of this universe. Even Brahma, Saraswati and Sheshnaag can’t describe your power. I bow to you. Please bless me and fulfil my desire. She welcomed Mahadevji who had come in the figure of Indra- O Indra Dev! How come you came here? Indra said- I am happy with your meditation. You want to marry Mahadevji but he lives with the ghosts, eats non desirable things and wears the skin of the animals. He is not a good match for you to marry. I am the king of the Devtaas. Marry me and enjoy the pleasures of my kingdom. Parvati was displeased to hear that. She said- Evil Indra! I can’t hear Mahadevji’s insult. She decided to curse Indra. Immediately Mahadevji came back to his original self and said- O Parvati! I am not Indra. I am Mahadev. I was just testing your

devotion towards me. Mahadevji showed her his divine form. Parvati bowed to him and said- O Lord! Vishnuji advised me to perform Swasthani Mata’s fast to attain you. Mahadevji took her with him and reached Himalaya’s home to discuss their marriage. Himalaya was very happy to learn this. He consulted Guru Brahaspati and other astrologers and they fixed the date for their marriage. He invited all the Devtaas, Yakshaas, Kinners and Apsaraas etc. for marriage. Parvati was dressed-up beautifully on the day of marriage. She was looking beautiful than anyone else in the universe. During a ritual of the marriage Mahadevji was asked to reveal his gotra. Mahadevji remained quiet. No one knew about Mahadevji’s gotra. Sage Narada came there at that time playing his instrument, veena, and said- O Himalaya! It is foolish to ask about the gotra of him who is the Supreme force of this universe. Mahadevji has no parents and thus he has no gotra. No one can describe his personality as he is above the circle of birth and death. Marry your daughter to him. Everyone seconded Narada’s opinion. Himalaya happily married his daughter to Mahadevji. The rituals were performed and the feast was served to all. Everyone blessed them.

14th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Parvatiji gave the prasada of Swasthani Mata to Mahadevji and said- O God! My desire to marry you got fulfilled because of Swasthani Mata’s fast. There are many people in the world who are suffering on one account or the other. The knowledge of this fast should reach those people so that they can transform their lives and end their sorrow. Mahadevji said- O Parvati! I am happy to see your kind and sympathetic attitude. On Mahadevji’s advice Parvatiji sent Rishi Ashwathama to Pataal lok to propagate the story of this auspicious fast. He was asked to guide those people, who were in distress, poor, didn’t have child or husband. The saint moved from there. Mahadevji went to an unknown place and hided himself to test Parvatiji. She moved from there barefoot to search him. She said- O dear! Why are you teasing me? Don’t you like me? Mahadevji took form of an animal called Kiraati in the Shaleshmantak Vann.

Parvatiji saw through her divine eyes that Mahadevji was playing there in that form. She also took form of a Kiraatani and started to live under a big tree in that forest.

Mahadevji came there and got attracted to her. He said- O beautiful! Are you a Devkanya, Yakshkanya, Naagkanya or an Apsara? You are the most beautiful female. What are you doing here? She saw Mahadevji, who had snake in his neck and bow and trident in his hands, and said- O Kiraat! I am living here for many years and don’t fear animals. I meditate here. Kiraat said- I am alone like you. We should live together here. Kiraatani said- You are male and I am female. The night is approaching. It is not correct for us to live together. Kiraat said- Don’t worry. I will not touch you. She obliged. They started living together there. Parvatiji said- O Mahadevji! You are here and kailash is deserted without you. Come back. Mahadevji thought- How come she knew that I am here. He thought that may be the Devtaas had disclosed about my hidden place. He saw Kiraatani who was plucking the fruits and said- Where were you? I am searching for you barefoot. She said that she was feeling hungry and was searching for food. Mahadevji got attracted to her and tried to hold her. She said- I am meditating here to get Mahadevji as husband. I will not accept you.

Mahadevji said- I am Mahadev. He showed her his divine form. Kiraatani said- You will have to approach my parents regarding our marriage. Mahadevji followed her and when they reached at Himalaya’s residence, Mahadevji understood that she was Parvati. He was embarrassed and got disappeared. He resided in the Shaleshmantak Vann as Kiraanteshwar. Parvatiji meditated there and took bath. That place is called Gaurighat. Whosoever worships or takes bath there gets salvation. O Agastya Muni! Mahadevji appeared befor Parvati. She said- What is my fault that you are hurting me? Mahadevji took her alongside and they reached Himalaya’s home who was happy to receive them. They stayed there for five days and asked for Himalaya’s permission to leave. Himalaya said- O Shashishekhar! You possess the capability to destroy the world. You drank poison after the samudra-manthan. I bow to you. You are called Tripurari as you killed Tripur demons. Your power is endless. No one is capable to describe your might. Mahadevji was happy with Himalaya’s prayers and blessed him that his desire will get fulfilled. He moved to Kailash with Parvatiji.

15th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! One day Parvatiji created a boy and placed him to stand outside her home.

That boy didn’t let Mahadevji move inside the home. Mahadevji cut his throat and moved inside. When Parvatiji learnt the incident she cried by saying that he was her son. Mahadevji said that he was unaware of this fact and assured to give back life to him. He called his ganaas and told them to bring the head of anyone who meets them first. They found an elephant first and brought his head. Mahadevji put that on the child’s body. The child got alive. He was named Ganesh. Mahadevji went to his room. Indra said to Agni- The world order will get disrupted without Mahadevji. So take Parvatiji to Kaashi. Agni entered Kailash when Mahadevji and Parvatiji were there. Mahadevji was angry to saw him and was about to finish him when Parvatiji stopped him and said- It is unjust to kill the guest. Give him something. He gave him a divine liquid. Agni consumed that and got pregnant. She spit that in the bushes near the shore of the river Ganga. The wives of the saints had come there to take bath. Due to the effect of that left over divine liquid they also got pregnant. The saints were enraged to saw their pregnant wives and cursed them and disowned them. They were innocent so with Mahadevji’s blessing they became stars in the sky. A six-faced boy was born due to the effect of the liquid spit by the wives of the saints. That boy lived as the son of Ganga. O Agastya Muniji! I am that six-faced boy; Kumarji said about himself.

One day Mahadevji called me and Ganesh and said- Go and take the round of the world. Whoever comes first will be blessed by me. I moved on my vehicle, Mayur. Ganesh thought that the parents, Mahadevi and Parvatiji, are the world for him. Ganesh took three rounds of his parents and said- You are the world and the God for me. Mahadevji was extremely happy with the devotional attitude of Ganesh and blessed him- O Ganesh! You are remarkable. I bless that your name will be taken henceforth to start any work. No religious ritual would be deemed to be complete without revering you. O Agastya Muni! When I didn’t return after so many days, my mother Ganga was worried. Mahadevji assured her and said- O Ganga! Do Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat (fast).

Your son will return soon. My mother performed this fast with utmost dedication and in the proper way as prescribed. Due to this Mahadevji blessed me that I will also be remembered and worshipped during any religious ritual.

Agastya Rishi said- O Skandkumar! How did Tarakasur get the boon? How was he killed and how Amravati was taken from his control? Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Tarakasur saw a saint worshipping at Dugdhprabha teerth and decided to follow the same. He requested that saint to guide him. The saint said- Worship Lord Brahma at the Himalayas. Brahmaji was happy with Tarakasur’s meditation and appeared in front of him and asked him to ask for a boon. Tarakasur said- O Lord! Bless me to remain victorious till five divine years of your age. Devtaas should not win over me. Whosoever cuts my head gets finished. Brahma obliged and presented him Brahmastra.

Tarakasur attacked Amravati. The Devtaas retaliated. Many soldiers from both the sides were killed. The head priest of the demons, Guru Shukracharya, applied Sanjivani on the dead demons to give back life to them. The Devtaas were defeated. Their head priest, Guru Brahaspati, told them that Tarakasur was unconquerable due to Brahmaji’s boon. Only Mahadevji can finish him.

The Devtaas reached Kailash and prayed to Mahadevji- O Lord! Tarakasur has wrested Amravati from us. Only you can save us now. Mahadevji said- My son Kumar will kill that demon. Make him your commander. They moved from there for war under Kumar’s leadership. No one talked to Ganeaha. Ganesh said to Musa- My father blessed me that I will be remembered before any auspicious work but they have forgotten me. Musa, in retaliation, cut the bow that was kept there for auspices. The Devtaas were worried and prayed to Mahadevji who told them- You forgot to revere Ganesha first. It has caused this. Pacify him and everything will be fine. The devtaas worshipped Ganesha and then moved to fight with Tarakasur’s army. During the war Tarakasur pushed Kumarji’s cart back. Kumarji retaliated more severely. Kumarji directed chandrabaan at Tarakasur that cut his head. The sun had set but the stars had not surfaced in the sky. Mahadevji took his head in his hands. He didn’t let it fall on earth. All the devtaas hailed Mahadevji when they reached Kailash. Permit us to move to Amravati. Mahadevji said- May you live happily in your kingdom. The Devtaas departed to Amravati.

16th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! One day Mahadevji disguised as a deer to live in the Shaleshmantak vann. Parvatiji was saddened by his absence. She saw through her divine eyes where Mahadevji was. She started meditating hard at the Shore of Vaagmati River. Kailash was deserted by their absence. Brahma and the other Devtaas reached the place where Parvatiji was meditating. They prayed to her- O mother! You are meditating here. Mahadevji is somewhere else. How will the world function without the two of you? Parvatiji said- There is a big pond in Shaleshmantak vann. Mahadevji is living there in the disguise of a deer. Go and meet him. They went there and started praying for Mahadevji. A deer appeared there. They prayed- O God! You have left us and the Kailash parbat orphaned. Please show us your divine form. The deer started to run. Lord Vishnu said- O Devtaas! Cover Mahadevji from all sides. The horns of the deer were held by Vishnuji from the bottom, Brahmaji from the middle and Indra from the top. The deer disappeared leaving the three parts of the horns in their hands. All of them prayed to Mahadevji who appeared in his divine form and said- I am happy with your prayers. Ask for anything. Devtaas asked where to put those parts of the horns. Mahadevji replied- I forgive you for breaking the horns. Place the part held by Indra in Indralok; Vishnuji’s in Pataal and Brahmaji’s at Gokarna in Nepal. Mahadevji returned to Kailash along with Parvatiji. Ravana used to worship Mahadevji in Gokarna. Mahadevji was appeased with his prayers and asked him to ask for a boon. Ravana said- O Lord! I don’t need anything. Mahadevji said- Still ask something. Ravana replied- Then give me Parvati. Mahadevji fulfilled his wish and Ravana moved for Lanka with Parvatiji. When Vishnuji learnt this he disguised as Mohini and waited on the way. Vishnuji, in the disguise of Mohini, asked Ravana- Who are you? What are you taking and where? Ravana replied- I am the king of Lanka, Ravana. I hav got Parvati in boon from Mahadevji. Mohini laughed and said- o Ravana! You are a brave man. Why do you believe all? Mahadevji has given you an artificial Parvati and you believed him. If you want real Parvati ask Mahadevji to give her to you. She actually is under his throne. Ravana was deceived by Vishnuji. He left Parvatiji there and reached Kailash and said- You have made a fool of me. The real Parvati is under your throne. Give her to me.

Mahadevji understood the reality from his divine eyes. He created an artificial Parvati and pulled her from his throne. Ravana took her to Lanka. Vishnuji brought Parvatiji to Kailash. One day Mahadevji went to Mansarovar to take a dip in water in the disguise of Rajhansa. Jalandhar was also there with his wife Vrinda and said to her- O Vrinda! I am fortunate to have a beautiful wife like you. Vrinda laughed and said- I am nothing in comparison to Mahadevji’s wife, Parvati. Jalandhar said- If this is the truth then I will steal her. Jalandhar disguised as Mahadevji and reached Kailash. Parvatiji brought water to wash his feet. Jalandhar fell down and became unconscious as he saw her. Parvatiji realised that it was Jalandhar in Mahadevji’s form. She prayed to Vishnuji. Vishnuji appeared and said- O Mata! Why have you called me? Parvatiji apprised him of the incident. Vishnuji said- O mother! He has done a very bad deed. He thrives on the power of his wife, Vrinda. I will go and take away Vrinda’s power. Vishnuji moved to Mansarovar on his vehicle, Garuda.

17th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Mahadevji was surprised by the arrival of Vishnuji at Mansarovar and said- O Govind! What brought you here? Vishnuji replied- O Lord! Jalandhar disguised himsemself in your form with an intention to steal mother Parvati. He though became unconscious on seeing her. Mataji called me to appraise the situation. You should leave for Kailash now. I am going to destroy the meditative strength of Jalandhar’s wife, Vrinda. Mahadevji came back to his original self by denouncing the disguise of the Rajhansa and said- Please complete your work as only the end of Jalandhar will satisfy me now. Mahadevji reached Kailash where Parvatiji washed his feet and explained to him the complete incident. Mahadevji said- Vishnuji has gone to destroy Vrinda’s meditative strength. After that I will kill Jalandhar. Vishnuji disguised as Jalandhar and reached his home. Vrinda thought that he was her husband. She washed his feet and said- O dear! You went to Kailash. How beautiful is Parvati? Vishnuji in the disguise of Jalandhar said- O Vrinda! It is difficult to steal Parvati. I was petrified from their guards. Vrinda thought that her husband can’t be a coward. She realised from her divine knowledge that it was Lord Vishnu who had come to deceive her. She asked him to wait in the home till she comes back. Vrinda moved outside and sat in wait for her husband. Four days passed and Vishnuji was still sitting inside waiting for her.

Mahadevji saw the reality through his divine eyes. He created a sixteen-year monk and asked him to attain Vishnuji from Vrinda. The monk went to Jalandhar’s home and asked for donation from Vrinda. She replied- What do you want? I will fulfil your desire. It’s my promise. The monk said- Give me the one who is inside your home. Vrinda fulfilled the promise and gave away the prisoner to the monk. They moved for Kailash. On the way Garuda’s sound broke Jalandhar’s unconsciousness. He came back to his home. All the Devtaas, Yakshaas, Kinners, Gandharvaas etc. made a plan to kill Jalandhar and moved to wage war against him. When Jalandhar reached his home Vrinda asked her about his plan to steal Parvati. Jalandhar said- I got unconsciousness on seeing Parvati. Garuda’s sound brought me back to my normal self. Vrinda said- Vishnu came here in your absence to deceive me. I imprisoned him but a monk took him away in donation. Jalandhar was angry. He said- I will now again try

to steal Parvati. He moved outside where Narada met him and said- O Jalandhar! All the Devtaas are coming to fight with you. Prepare for the war now. Jalandhar readied his army to battle with them. There was a terrific battle fought between them. Mahadevji asked Vishnuji to try once again to deceive Vrinda because until her meditative strength eroded, Jalandhar was unbeatable. Vishnuji went to Jalandhar’s home in his disguise. Vrinda asked- Dear! What happened to the war against Mahadevji? He replied- The war has not finished. I got tired and have thus come to take rest. Vrinda served him food. Vishnuji, in the disguise of Jalandhar, destroyed the strength of Vrinda by spending time with her. Next morning Vishnuji appeared in his Chaturbhuj form before Vrinda. Vrinda was infuriated. Vishnuji said- Jalandhar must have been killed by now. You will get this news soon. You have got me in place of him. You need not worry. Vishnuji consoled her and disappeared from there.

18th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Jalandhar’s power started to diminish as soon as Vishnuji corroded Vrinda’s power that emanated from her character. In the battlefield Mahadevji opened his third eye and pierced his trident in Jalandhar’s chest. Vrinda cried at the demise of her husband and said- Dear! Why have you left me? You met your end due to Vishnu’s deception. She cursed Vishnuji in anger- You are the reason for my husband’s death. I curse you to become bush, grass, tree and stone. Vrinda finished her life near her husband’s dead body. O Agastya Muni! Due to Vrinda’s curse Vishnuji lives as bush in Tulsi; as grass in Kusha; as tree in Peepal and as stone in Shaligram. Hence the world considers these things as Narayan. O muni! The strength of a lady’s character is supreme. Vishnuji approached Mahadevji and told him the story about Vrinda’s curse. Mahadevji reached Kailash with his associates. Kumarji said- O Muniraj! This was the story about the swarg. Now I will tell you about the pataal. Rishi Ashwathama went to pataal as per Parvatiji’s guidance. The snakes lorded over the Pataal. It was a beautiful and prosperous place. Rishi Ashwathama said to their king Sheshnaag- O Sheshnaag! Parvati Mata sent me here to propagate Shree Swasthani Mataji’s fast. Tell me if there is any depressed soul here so that their suffering is done away with the effect of this auspicious fast. Sheshnaag said- O Ashwathama! There is no distressed soul here. But in the forest nearby there are homes of Shankhchood, Ratanchood, Kripadutt and Dhartrashtra naags. Their wives are in distress. Rishi Ashwathama went there and enquired about the reason of their sorrow. Shankhchood’s wife Hirawati, Ratanchood’s wife Ratnawati, Kripadutt’s wife Mrigawati and Dhartrashtra’s wife Madnawati said to him- We were living here happily with our husbands. They went outside one day and have not returned since then. We are waiting for them and are in distress. Our prayers have not yielded results so far. Please show us a way. We don’t have the children either. The Rishi said- O snake-women! Swasthani Mataji’s fast has the capability to reunite you with your husbands. Mata Parvati has sent me here to propagate the grandeur of this magnificent fast. The snake-women were elated and requested him to tell them about the procedure of Swasthani Mataji’s fast. The Rishi said- In the Satyayug king Himalaya’s daughter, Parvati, performed this

fast in order to fulfil her desire of getting married to Mahadevji. She was blessed by Swasthani Mataji and got married to Mahadevji. You all should follow her way and perform this fast with utmost dedication.

Rishi Ashwathama explained to them the complete procedure of the fast and the timing to start it.

He said- Your worries will finish after the completion of this auspicious fast. Believe in my words and never doubt the authenticity of this fast. The snake- women requested him to stay there for the time being till their fast gets completed. Rishi Ashwathama obliged and helped them in starting the fast with the right procedure. The snake-women remembered Swasthani Mataji and expressed their desires. When the fast ended after a month; the great Swasthani Mata, glittering more than the thousand suns, appeared before them and said- O snake-women! Your sorrows will end now. Your husbands will return soon. Swasthani Mataji disappeared then. Their husbands returned home. The snake-women thanked Swasthani Mataji from the core of their hearts and gave to their husbands the prashad of eight rotis each that they had kept for the fast. They served food to Rishi Ashwathama and donated some items to him. The Rishi took their leave and reached at Kailash to meet Parvati Mata. The snake fraternity lived happily thereafter.

19th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! This was Pataal’s story. Now I will tell you about the story of Mrityulok. There was a village named Brahmapur in the south. The people there were religious, brave and prosperous. A Brahman named Shivbhatt was the poorest person there. He was truthful and spiritual by nature. His wife’s name was Sati. They were leading a difficult life. One day Shivbhatt said to Sati- we are very poor. We will worship Lord Ganesha to become prosperous. The couple started the prayers from a Tuesday and followed it for next eight Tuesdays. Ganeshji appeared before them on day and said- I am happy with your devotion. Ask what to you want to get from me. The couple bowed to him and said- O Lord! We might have not donated anything in the past because we are leading a very poor life. Please finish off our poverty. Ganesha replied- When you will worship me on next Tuesday, take whatever comes from my mouth to your home. Hide it for four days in a vessel and after that it will turn into gold. The couple followed his advice and saw a laddu (sweet dish) in the temple when they worshipped Ganesha next Tuesday. They thanked Ganeshji and brought the laddu to home. They kept it in their home and it turned to gold after four days. They were elated and thanked Ganeshji. Their poverty ended and they became rich. One day Shivbhatt said to his wife- We will do donation in this birth so that we don’t remain poor in the subsequent births. They started worshipping Harihar Dev. They flourished thereafter. They were getting old so they worshipped Ganeshji to get a child who could look after them in the old age. Ganeshji was happy with their devotion and asked them to express their desire. Shivbhatt said- O Lord! Give us progeny who can look after us and our wealth. Ganeshji said- Pray here on the next Tuesday. You will find a cow here. When she will withdraw gobar, don’t let it fall on the land. Take it home and keep it in a vessel. After four days you will see a daughter there. You can’t get a son due to the acts of your last birth. They followed his advice and got a beautiful daughter.

O Agastya Muni! The beauty of that girl can’t be described in words. She radiated like sun and moon. She was delicate like flower. The couple worshipped Ganeshji as Sati was inefficient to provide the mother’s feed (milk) to her. Ganeshji blessed her and she was able to breast-feed her daughter.

She was named Goma by the Brahmans as she originated from the gobar. They predicted that she was a lucky child and will become famous. She started growing up. One day Shivbhatt and Sati went to take bath in the river Ganga. They worshipped God and donated many things. The devtaas feared their spiritual strength. Indra said to Mahadevji in Kailash- O Lord! This couple has attained wealth and grace due to their spiritual strength. I fear to lose my kingdom to them. Please help me. Mahadevji replied- O Indra! Go back to Amrawati. I will save you.

Mahadevji disguised as a monk and reached Shivbhatt’s home. Goma was present there. She asked him to wait as she was preparing the puja-samagri. She came outside after doing her work and apologised to him for making him to wait. The monk said- You made me wait for long. Give me the material that you have prepared for your parents. Goma replied- I can’t give you that. Take whatever I am offering you. The monk got enraged and said- You have insulted me due to your ego. I curse you that you will get married to an old man of seventy-year age when you will turn seven. The wealth of your parents will cease to exist and they will die consequently. You will face many hardships in life. The monk went away after cursing her.

20th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Goma was depressed to hear the curse of the monk. When Shivbhatt and Sati returned home in the evening they asked Goma the reason of her crying. Goma said- In your absence I was preparing puja-samagri for you. A monk visited our house for some donation. I asked him to wait for some time. He was annoyed for the delay and wanted the material that I had prepared for you. When I refused to give him that, he fumed with anger and cursed me that I will get married to an old man, our wealth will be destroyed, my parents will die soon and I will face hardships. Shivbhatt said- That monk was none other than Mahadevji. His curse won’t affect you. Stop crying. Shivbhatt searched a bridegroom for her when she turned six but was unable to find one due to Mahadevji’s curse. One day he met an old man at the shore of the river Ganga. That man was badly dressed and introduced himself as Shiv Sharma. He was searching for a bride ever since he was sixteen years old. Shiv Sharma said to Shivbhatt- The solution of the worries of both of us is in the marriage of your daughter with me. Shivbhatt said- What are you saying? You are seventy-year old while my delicate daughter is just seven years in age. Shiv Sharma said that he will commit suicide if his request was not met in affirmation. Shivbhatt thought that may be that was the fate of her daughter. He reminded Mahadevji’s curse. He took him to his home and said to wife that had he not adhered to Shiv Sharma’s wish, the latter would have committed suicide. The monk had cursed our daughter to marry an old man. We can’t change her destiny. That’s why I brought him here to marry him to our daughter. His wife said- You are committing a grave mistake by marrying off our daughter to this old man. If he wants to commit suicide let him do that. We should not get intimidate by his threats. I will search for a good boy for our daughter. Shiv Sharma was listening to them and said- There are all types of people in this world. Some are rich, handsome or happy while some are poor, old or ugly. Some are masters while others are servants. Everyone will grow old one day as this is the circle of life. Please marry your daughter to me otherwise I will curse you before finishing my life. Shivbhatt said to his wife- Why you fail to understand that the monk who cursed our daughter was none other than Mahadevji himself. No one in this world has the power to change the course of

action decided by Mahadevji. Sati said- Why God cursed my daughter? The astrologers had said that she is very lucky. Why is their prophesy turning to ashes now? What wrong have we committed that we are facing such a dreadful situation? Shivbhatt replied- Stop crying because that happens which the God writes. Give special treatment to Shiv Sharma. Sati then prepared good food for him.

At night Sati said to her daughter, Goma- Your marriage has been fixed to an old man by your father. The monk who cursed you was Mahadevji himself. No one can defy his words. So don’t blame yourself or us for your plight. Sati wept when she said this to her daughter. Goma pacified her mother and said- If this is my destiny then no one can alter it. I am reaping the results of my deeds. The people who don’t satisfy the guest-monks have to bear such state of affairs while they are blessed who serve them in a proper way.

O mother! Don’t worry for me. My husband is like God for me even if he is old, ill and poor. Even Lord Rama had to spend fourteen years in the forest due to the effect of destiny. Mahadevji had to drink poison and king Yudhishthir had to leave his kingdom due to the effect of fate. Draupadi was misbehaved in front of huge gathering and king Baali had to move to Pataal due to fate. No one can make changes to the destiny. The person gets what has been assigned to him by the destiny. I will happily marry with the person of your choice. Sati said- O dear daughter! You are unmatched. You are so wise even in such a tender age.

Shiv Sharma became healthy after some days due to the services and food provided to him by Goma’s family. Their marriage was solemnised at a proper time as prescribed by the astrologers. Both Goma and Shiv Sharma were nicely dressed on that day. The guests were properly served. The newly-wed couple stayed there for some time after the marriage.

21st Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! They spent ten years there. Shiv Sharma thought it wise to leave his in-laws place and told them- O dear parents! I have been out of my home for a very long time. Please permit me to take leave now. Shivbhatt replied- This home is also as much yours. Please don’t go from here. Shiv Sharma said- Allow me to visit my home once. I will return after some time as you are my guardians and parents. You take care of me with such affection that I would love to come back here.

Goma said to her husband- Please don’t insist on leaving alone. I will also accompany you. Shiv Sharma replied- Goma, you are young and tender. The way to my home passes through a series of forests and mountains. You haven’t faced the hardships of life. I am old and thus will not be able to protect you from the miscreants. So let me go alone. I will return in a couple of months. Goma said- I can’t live without you. I am ready to tread the difficult path along with you. I will finish my life if you try to leave alone.

Shiv Sharma said- If this is your wish then take permission from your parents. Goma requested her parents to let her go. Her parents said- O daughter! Please don’t insist to leave us. You are our daughter as well as our son. Who will take care of us in your absence? Who will serve us food and water? Without you our life would be like a night without moon. We will also leave this world as Dashrathji left in absence of Ramchandraji. Let your husband go. He will return back in a couple of months. Goma said- Dear parents! The wife’s life revolves around her husband. The rituals, donation, fasting etc. are not needed if the wife is devoted to her husband. I can’t neglect my duty of serving my old husband. Her parents replied- You are speaking the worldly-wise things. How can we stop you now? Goma’s parents wept a lot after allowing her to go. They presented many good things to her like ornaments, clothes and other valuable things. They sent many servants to depart their daughter. They wept a lot and said to her on departure- O dear daughter! Don’t forget us and return soon.

22nd Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Shivbhatt and Sati glanced at their daughter till she went away from their eyes. They were weeping and consoling each other. They were looking at her departing daughter by standing on the branch of a tree. Due to the curse of Mahadevji that branch broke and they both fell down and died. Mahadevji’s envoys came there from the Kailash parbat and took them to the abode of the Lord.

Shiv Sharma and Goma entered a forest on their way. She asked her servants about the names of the forest, creatures that she saw there and the time left for the remaining journey. At night they had their meals near a pond and slept there afterwards. Due to the curse of Mahadevji some thieves stole all their jewellery and money. Goma and her servants were astonished to learn this in the morning. The servants said- What explanation will we give now to your parents about our carelessness? What should we do now? Goma replied- You all go back from here. Don’t narrate this incident to my parents. The servants left.

Shiv Sharma and Goma moved from there. Goma was pregnant and was not getting the diet required in this state. They lived on whatever meagre they got there. Shiv Sharma showed her his small hut when they reached Chandrajyoti Nagar. Goma was in tears to see that place because she had spent all her life in the luxurious home of her parents. She consoled herself and started the cleaning work. Shiv Sharma said to her- You are pregnant and there is nothing to eat in our home. I will have to go abroad to earn. Take care of you till then. Goma replied- How can you think of leaving me alone in this unknown place? We will arrange something here. Shiv Sharma said that he will return in a month. She agreed. Shiv Sharma left and reached at the home of some saints near the shore of the Ganga and requested them to pluck some fruits from the trees there. The saints gave him their consent. Due to the curse of Mahadevji the branch of the tree broke and he fell from the tree. He left his body and came back into his original self. Shiv Sharma was in fact Mahadevji himself. Mahadevji reached Kailash where Parvatiji washed his feet and said- People deceive innocent women. You have left Goma pregnant. How will she manage

her life now? Mahadevji replied- O Parvati! Rest assured; Goma will be free of sorrows soon.

Goma’s life became difficult in the absence of Shiv Sharma. She lived on donation. After nine months she gave birth to a son. The astrologers named him Navraj and predicted that he will become a king one day. Goma served them food and donation. Goma raised Navraj with hard work. Navraj was humble, amiable and disciplined by nature. He used to assist her mother. He learnt the work of performing religious rituals. One day someone suggested to Goma to marry Navraj to Chandravati, daughter of Agni Brahman of Varanpur. Goma feared her poor condition as a stumbling block. The people assured that they will support her in this endeavour. Subsequently the marriage was fixed and Navraj was married to Chandravati.

One day Navraj’s friends asked him about his father’s name and whereabouts. Navraj didn’t have the answer and asked his mother at home about it. Goma wept and said- your father went abroad to earn money when you were still unborn. He hasn’t returned till today. Navraj assured her that he will go to search his father. Goma said that she will feel alone in his absence. Navraj said- it is the duty of the son to serve his father otherwise he gets cursed by the Almighty. I haven’t seen my father ever since I was born. I will go to search him. If he is alive then I will bring him back otherwise I will perform his last rites in the appropriate manner. Only then my life will be meaningful.My wife is here to serve you in my absence. Goma blessed her dutiful son. He asked his wife to take care of his mother and went away.

Navraj started probing for his father and co-incidentally reached the home of the Brahman couple where his father had breathed last. They explained to him how his father died by falling from the tree while plucking fruits. Navraj collected the bones of his father which were lying there. He wept and said- Why did you leave me alone? What will I say to my mother? How will she react? Navraj performed the last rites of his mother at the shore of the river Ganga. He thought it wise to do a job for some time to earn money. He worked for the king thereafter.

23rd Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! One day Navraj’s wife said to Goma- It has been a long time since I visited my parents’ home. Moreover there is shortage of food and clothes here. Call me when your son returns back. You live on donation till then. Chandravati left.

Goma was saddened at her departure and remembered the day when Mahadevji cursed her. She thought- My husband didn’t return and now my son and daughter-in-law have also left me in troubled waters. She prayed to Mahadevji in her heart- O Shashishekhar! I salute you. I am in great trouble. Please help me. She wept a lot. Her wails reached Parvati Mataji’s ears in Kailash. She said to Mahadevji- O Lord! Goma is also your wife. Please save her from the troubles. If you permit, can I send someone to tell her about the splendour of Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat (fast) so that her troubles end?

Mahadevji replied- O Parvati! Don’t worry as her troubles will end soon. Send someone for the purpose. Parvatiji sent Saptarishi to Goma. They reached at Goma’s home and called her. Goma welcomed them and asked the reason of their arrival. They said- Your prayers have reached Parvatiji and Mahadevji. Your worries will finish by keeping the fast of Shree Swasthani Mataji. Listen carefully.

In the Satyayug Mata Parvati performed this fast to attain Mahadevji as her husband. It starts on the ‘Paush Shukla Purnima’ day. The devotee should get himself properly bathed and cleaned before setting on this course. You have to offer 108 things in Prasada. You should remember Swasthani Mataji with devotion and state your desire. The saptarishi explained to goma the complete procedure of the fast and Mataji’s outward appearance which is as follows:

{Glittering as gold, the three-eyed, whose face is like a lotus flower, who sits on the throne, attached with all ornaments, the four-armed, who has neelkamal in the upper left hand, varada in the upper right hand, khadaga in the lower left hand, charma in the lower right hand, such a powerful Goddess; we remember you the divine being}

Pray and request to her to fulfil your desire and to bless you with her Grace.

After that you should bow to her and distribute the 108 things of the Prasada to your husband, son or relative. If no one is availanle then immerse that in the river. Mataji’s bhajans and jagran should be perfomed in the night.

It has the capacity to end your worries and fulfil your wishes. Don’t ever doubt the majesty of this glorious fast. Mata Parvati was the first one to perform it.

After listening to the Saptarishi Goma said- I am fortunate to learn this from you. I am unable to serve you in a proper way. Please wait, I will bring something for you. The Saptarishi felt her pain and decided to bless her. They left seven pieces of gold for her before leaving from there.

24th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Goma went to the market to brought paan for the Saptarishi. The shopkeeper said that he had sold all the paans. You can check inside the vessel. When Goma checked that she found paans there. They both were surprised by the miracle. The shopkeeper gave those to Goma for free. Goma rued her fate when she returned home and saw that the Saptarishi were not there. When she started cleaning her house she noticed seven pieces of gold that Saptarishi had left there. She thanked them. On the appropriate day she readied herself well to start the fast of Shree Swasthani Mataji. She read Swasthani Mataji’s story in the evening. Some children came to her house to ascertain that what she was doing. She narrated to them Swasthani Mataji’s story. The children got blessed as well.

Goma performed the fast properly and prayed to Mataji- O kind and benevolent mother! Please save me from the curse of the monk if you are satisfied with my devotion. May my son return home soon. Bless me to remain your devotee always. O mother! You are Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Even Sheshnaag and Saraswati can’t describe your greatness. She offered the Prasada to Mataji and spent the night chanting Swasthani Mataji’s pious name. In the morning she was extremely surprised when her son navraj called her name. Navraj told her about the demise of his father. Goma wept on learning that her husband was no more. Navraj consoled her and said- We have to adjust to the reality. Where is my wife? Goma replied- She left me and returned to her father’s house. I was in great sorrow but with God’s Grace the Saptarishi arrived here to tell me about the fast of Swasthani Mataji. It is because of the good effect of that fast that you have returned home. I will narrate to you this pious story. It gives happiness in this world and takes us to the God after our death. Goma narrated the Katha to him and asked him to take a dip in the holy water of river Ganga. When Navraj was taking a dip there, the God of water appeared before him due to the good effect of Swasthani Mataji’s fast. He said- I am happy with your mother’s devotion. The king of the Lavanya kingdom has expired. The state elephant of that kingdom is on the lookout for the new king. That person will become the king who will be garlanded by that elephant. I will enter the conscience of that elephant and

put the garland in your neck. I bless you to become the king of Lavanya. Navraj thanked the water God and said- O God! You have blessed me and my mother. You have made my life meaningful. Bless me always.

Navraj thanked him and returned to his home. His mother asked the reason for him being so happy. He explained to her that amazing incident. He said that it has happened due to the grace of Shree Swasthani Mataji. Goma had no words to thank Mataji. She gave her son the Prasada of Swasthani Mataji. Navraj ate the Prasada, took her mother’s blessing and departed for the Lavanya kingdom.

25th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! The ministers of the Lavanya kingdom had sent the elephant to send their new king. Many people were trying to attract that elephant. Navraj also reached there. The water god entered the elephant’s conscience and the elephant garlanded Navraj. Many people got enraged to saw that happening because Navraj was a Brahman. The ministers scolded them by stating that the elephant doesn’t differentiate between the statuses of the people because the elephant acts as the guide. We will accept him as the new king. The elephant took Navraj in his trunk and moved towards the palace. He was made to dress beautifully. He was married to the princess of that kingdom. The ministers told him that the preparations for his appointment as their new king were made and they were waiting for his permission to initiate those proceedings. Navraj said- How can I get crowned in the absence of my mother? He ordered the ministers to bring his mother there. The ministers reached Navraj’s home with jewellery and new clothes and said to her- O mother of the king! Your son has become the king of the Lavanya kingdom. We are his ministers. We have come here to take you there.

Goma was very happy. She got herself well dressed for the occasion. The ministers took her to the palace in the cart vehicle. The people there were surprised to see that the poor Goma had suddenly become the king’s mother. When she reached the palace of the Lavanya kingdom, Navraj bowed to her and said- O mother! I have become the king due to your devotion towards the Almighty. You have to get me crowned now. The Rajpurohits got him crowned by making him to sit on the golden throne. The Rajpurohits were served food and given donation. The festivity and the musical programme were arranged.

26th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! One day king Navraj said to his mother, Goma- O mother! We have attained the positions of the king and the Rajmata with Swasthani mataji’s blessings. We should feed all the Brahmans here because it will make our life worthwhile. Goma replied- You have stated the truth. I pray to god to keep you like that always. Do call the Brahmans from the Chandrajyoti nagar and don’t forget to invite your first wife, Chandravati. Navraj said to his ministers- Invite all the Brahmans for a grand feast. Invite the Brahmans from Chandrajyoti nagar as well as Varanpur because my wife lives there. Invite my in-laws too. The ministers carried his orders. They sent cart, clothes and jewellery for Chandravati. Chandravati and her parents were over the moon to hear the news of Navraj’s appointment as the king. The ministers requested Chandravati- O Queen! Please get ready as we have come to take you to the palace. Chandravati’s parents were very happy and they said to her- O daughter! You have become a queen. You should go with them. She left for Lavanya kingdom. On the way people said to each other that this woman has become a queen who left her mother-in-law in the absence of her husband. The cavalcade of Chandravati reached a forest covered with fruits and flowers. The servants sought Chandravati’s permission to eat some fruits there to satiate their hunger. They asked her to wait in that cart which was carrying her. They saw some women there who were worshipping there. They asked them about their whereabouts. The women said- We are the Apsaraas and we are worshipping Swasthani Mataji here. The servants requested the Apsaraas to involve them in the puja (worshipping). The Apsaraas assisted them to complete the procedure of revering the deity and said- Whosoever worships Shree Swasthani Mataji, listens fondly to her story and keeps literature related to her in his/her home is blessed to get rid of worries and gets happiness beyond measure.He/she goes to the abode of the God after leaving this corporal body. You have worshipped Mataji on the way so you all will be blessed by her. The servants thanked them and reached back where Chandravati was waiting for them.

27th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Those servants narrated to Chandravati the complete incident and offered apology for reaching late there. They offered Swasthani Mataji’s Prasada to her. She got angry and said- You evil people! You left me alone in the forest to complete your fast. Is this your duty? Is Swasthani Mata providing you bread and butter? I haven’t heard Swasthani Mata’s name ever. I will teach all of you a lesson on reaching the palace. She snatched prashad from their hands and threw it on the floor disdainfully. The servants had no other option than to take her forward. They had to cross a river named Shaali. A storm happened because Chandravati had abused Swasthani Mataji. There was heavy rain and the bridge collapsed. The servants became birds and reached Kailash as result of revering Swasthani Mataji. The devotees attain the abode of the God by keeping this fast.

There was a flood in the river. The fishermen reported the matter to Navraj and asked his opinion to get over this calamity. Navraj reached there along with his ministers. The fishermen threw their net in the river and Chandravati got entangled in that. She was ailing with diseases. The fishermen could not assess if she was a human. They threw her back in the river. They said to Navraj that they didn’t find anything in the river.Navraj prayed- O mother Ganga! Please accept my offerings and calm down. He offered Navratnas, a cow, milk and curd to the river. The river calmed down. The people were astonished. They revered the river and returned back. On the other side, Chandravati was living the life of hunger, thirst and diseases. She tried to eat mud to fill her stomach but that turned to stone first and then into leaves before flying away. She met that condition because she had abused and insulted Swasthani Mataji.

Navraj used to serve food and donation to the Brahmans in his palace. One day two Brahmans of Agnipur village, named Kapil, saw Chandravati on the way. She was crying with pain and requested them to introduce themselves. They said- We are Brahmans and we are going to the palace on the invitation of the king. Chandravati requested them to bring some food for her as she was very hungry. They said they can’t promise and they moved from there. Navraj

greeted all the Brahmans, served them food and donated many things to them. The Kapil Brahmans strolled near the palace after eating food contemplating about how they could ask for food for Chandravati. Rajmata Goma noticed their movements and sent the cook to know the reason of their restlessness. The Brahmans said that they met an ill woman at the shore of river Shaali. She was very hungry and asked for food. We are worried on that aspect. The cook told this to Goma who asked him to give some food for her. When they went inside the kitchen to collect some food, everything disappeared from there. Goma then asked them to give that food for her which was kept for Goma after offering to Swasthani Mataji. The cook said to the Kapil Brahmans that the food vanished from the kitchen when he went to collect it from there and he was now giving them the food kept for Rajmata Goma. The two Brahmans left from there. After their departure the food that had disappeared from the kitchen appeared once again. O Agastya muni! I have explained to you the story of Chandravati’s misery after she abused Swasthani Mataji. Now I will tell you how Swasthani Mataji blessed Chandravati when she repented for her misconduct.

28th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! The Kapil Brahmans reached with food to give to Chandravati. She asked for food. They said that you are such an evil soul that the food vanished from the kitchen of the palace when we demanded it for you. We have brought for you the Rajmata’s food. Chandravati snatched on the food. The Brahmans said- You should always eat food after washing your hands and face. We pity your condition. Listen carefully if you want to get rid of your disease and bad condition. Perform Shree Swasthani Mataji’s fast. It has the power to forgive even the worst of criminals. They left after advising her. When Chandravati reached near the river Shaali to clean herself, the water level started to lower down. When Chandravati tried to eat the food it turned into stones and leaves. She fell down unconsciously. She regained consciousness in between. She was in terrible condition for last five years.

On the ‘Paush Shukla Purnima’ day the Apsaraas descended on earth to perform Swasthani Mataji’s fast. Chandravati saw them and asked- Can I get something to eat? I am hungry for last so many days. Please help me. The Apsaraas said- We are from Indrapur. We have come here for performing Shree Swasthani Mataji’s fast. We feel pity for your deplorable condition. We advise you to perform this fast to end your bad period.

Chandravati realised in her heart that she had abused Swasthani Mataji when her servants had narrated her story. She had thrown Mataji’s Prasada. She was wandering since then due to the effect of that bad act of hers. The Kapil Brahmans too had advised her to perform this auspicious fast. Swasthani Mataji is very kind, compassionate and powerful. I met this condition due to my ego. I must also perform this propitious fast. Chandravati requested the Apsaraas to acquaint her with the proper procedure of this fast. The Apsaraas explained to her the complete procedure of Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat (fast). They asked her to chant Mataji’s name and get immersed in Mataji’s divine form. They said- The devotee gets the fruits of his/her desire after the successful completion of this fast. They helped her in starting the puja of Mahadevji and Mataji. The effects of the fast on Chandravati were beyond belief. With the passing of each day her body started to show improvement.

And as the fast completed she had got rid of her disease. She appeared beautiful again. At the time of the completion of the fast the Apsaraas again came to that place. Chandravati told them that she has completed the fast but she had nothing to kept there as Prasada (offerings to Mataji). The Apsaraas advised her to use sand for that purpose and then worship with them. Surprisingly, the offerings made of sand converted to the real ones because of Chandravati’s devotion for Swasthani Mataji. The Apsaraas said to her- You have regained your previous form. We want to give you another name, Punyavati. They all prayed to Swasthani Mataji. Chandravati prayed and said- Dear Swasthani Mataji! I bow before you. I had insultd and abused you due to my lack of knowledge about your strength and grace. Please forgive me for my heinous act. You are the divine form of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. You are the biggest of all the Gods. Even Sheshnaag and Saraswati can’t describe your powerful aura. Please accept my prayers and bless me. The Apsaraas left after the completion of the fast. Chandravati immersed the offerings into river Shaali and prayed to Mataji- O my dear mother! Re-unite me with my husband. She then ate the left over Prasada. This way Chandravati attained divine body with the blessings of Swasthani Mataji.

29th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! A Naag (snake) saw the four rotis that Chandravati had immersed in the river. The Naag thought- Who might have immersed these rotis? I left home twelve years ago. How can I eat them alone? I should go home and share these with my wife. The wife of the Naag was also searching for her husband and they both met near the shore of the river Shaali. She asked her husband- Dear! Where were you for so long? Why did you leave me? I am fortunate to re-unite with you. I had got these four rotis. Let us share these. The Naag said- I, too, have got four of them. I wanted to share these with you. They both were surprised with this twist of fate. They ate those rotis and the Nagin said to the Naag- We have united due to the good effect of these rotis. We pray to the God that whoso ever immersed these rotis in the river may get his/her desires fulfilled. These rotis have united us and if that person is also searching for someone then they may also unite. This way the snake couple blessed Chandravati indirectly.

The inhabitants of the Lavanya kingdom went near river Shaali to have a bath. They saw Chandravati there and asked her to introduce herself. Chandravati said- I am the daughter of Agniswami Brahman of Varanpur. I am the wife of Navraj, son of Goma and resident of Chandrajyoti nagar. I performed Shree Swasthani Mataji’s fast here under the guidance of some Apsaraas. The people were very surprised and told this incident to Navraj. Navraj was very happy. He said- she is my wife. I am waiting for her from a long time. Navraj ordered his ministers to reach near the shore of river Shaali with all fanfare and brought her to the palace. The ministers carried his orders and asked Chandravati to get dressed with the clothes and jewellery that they had brought with them. Chandravati thanked Swasthani Mataji in her heart- O benevolent mother! I have seen the outcome of performing your propitious fast. I had prayed to you to re-unite me with my husband and you have blessed a bad person like me. I salute you as I have become a queen because of your blessings. She got ready and moved for the palace. The people thronged to see her. Navraj brought her inside the palace.

30th Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Chandravati met Goma and Navraj happily there. Navraj asked- Dear! It has been a long time since I saw you last. I sent servants to bring you here. They haven’t returned till date and you also took a long time to reach here. Are you not happy with my elevation to the coveted post of the King? People told me that you are living in a hut near the shore of river Shaali. What was the matter? Chandravati was happy to hear his kind words and replied- I started my journey for here with your servants. They asked to take rest and eat fruits in a forest on the way. Some Apsaraas were performing the auspicious fast of Shree Swasthani Mataji there. Your servants joined them in this good work and brought Prasada for me as well. Due to my ego and ignorance I abused Swasthani Mataji and threw the Prasada. When we reached near the river a flood engulfed us and the bridge collapsed. I don’t know what happened to your servants. I got unconscious. When I regained consciousness I found myself in a bad shape, ugly and ridden with diseases. One day two Kapil Brahmans crossed from that place and I requested them to bring some food for me from the palace as they were going there for a feast. They came back and admonished me for the fact that the food vanished from the kitchen of the palace when they had asked for it for her. They said that Rajmata had given her portion for you and that I should wash my hands and face before having food. They sympathised with me and advised me to carry out Swasthani Mataji’s fast. They said that it would end my bad period. When I tried to eat the food given by them it turned into stones and leaves. The river also lowered its level when I tried to drink water from it. On a ‘Paush Shukla Purnima’ day some Apsaraas arrived there to execute Swasthani Mataji’s fast. They also advised me to do Mataji’s fast to overcome my pain and bad luck. I rued for the fact that I was not in a condition to carry out the fast as I didn’t have the required material needed for the puja. They explained to me the proper procedure of the fast and went away. I started Mataji’s worshipping and fast with utmost devotion. The results on my body were beyond belief. I came back to my normal self. The Apsaraas came back after a month and were happy with my recuperation. They called me by a new name, Punyavati, and asked me to make the material for the puja using sand. Surprisingly, Mataji’s

blessings turned the material of sand into the real one and I was able to complete the puja. I completed the procedure of ending the fast along with them. I thanked Mataji from the core of my heart and prayed to her to re-unite me with you. I ate the hundred rotis and other Prasada and chanted her name throughout the night. I immersed the Prasada, kept as shagun, in the river the next morning. I had to bear so much pain in my life because I had abused Swasthani Mataji. I regained everything after I apologised to her. I have reunited with you by grace of Swasthani Mataji. She is the biggest of all the Devtaas and her fast is supreme. I thank her again and again. Chandravati was in complete awe of Mataji by then.

31st Adhyay

Kumarji said- O Agastya Muni! Goma thanked Shree Swasthani Mataji after she learnt her daughter-in-law’s tale. She said to Chandravati- You have executed this fast in spite of bearing so much pain. You are remarkable. Now listen to my story- When you and Navraj left the home my life became difficult. One day the Saptarishi came to my home and advised me to do Swasthani Mataji’s fast. They left seven pieces of gold for me in my absence when I had gone to purchase paan for them. I bought the material for the puja from the gold left by them. I carried out this fast with dedication and completed it with proper procedure. In the morning I was extremely surprised to see Navraj back home. I gave him the Prasada. He broke to me the sad news of the demise of my husband. He told me that he had performed the last rites of his father by collecting the bones from the place where his father had died. He narrated to me how the water God blessed him to become the king of the Lavanya kingdom. By the grace of Swasthani Mataji Navraj became the king. Our good fortune is the outcome of Mataji’s grace. Mataji’s blessings are not limited to this world only. They take us to the heavenly abode as well. Goma shared her story with Navraj, Chandravati and Lavanyavati, the second wife of Navraj. She advised both her daughter-in-laws to live peacefully.

O Agastya Muni! Both the daughter-in –laws touched the feet of their mother- in-law. Since then they performed Swasthani Mataji’s fast every year with devotion. This way they all lived happily thereafter.

O Agastya Muni! Whosoever executes Shree Swasthani Mataji’s fast, keep her book in his/her home is blessed by her and never faces any difficulty in life. The ghosts and other bad activities can’t harm the devotees of Swasthani Mataji. The devotee gets worldly pleasures and leaves for the heavenly abode of the God after completing the life-cycle on the earth.

This is the story of Shree Swasthani Mataji and we have tried our best to make it reach you.

Prayer

Upnaytu mangalam vah sakaljagnamanglalaya shreeman!

Dinkar-kiran-nibodhit-nav nalin-dalnibhekshanah Krishna!!

Kale varsatu parjanye prithivi shasyashalini!

Deshoayam kshobhrahito brahmana santu nirbhaya!!

Aputraah putrinah santu putrinah santu pautrinah!

Nirdhanah sadhnah santu jivantu shardaam shatam!!

Tatraiv Ganga Yamuna cha tatra, godawari sindhu saraswati cha!

Tirthaani sarvaani vasanti tatra, yatraachayutodaarkathaprasangah!!

Yaa kundendu-tushaar-haardhawla yaa shubhravastravrita!

Yaa veenavardandmanditkara yaa shwetpadmaasana!!

Yaa brahmachayutshankarprabhritibhi devaih sada vanditah!

Saa maam paatu saraswati bhagwati niih sheshjaadyaapaha!!

Kaayen vaacha mansendriyervaa budhyatmana vaa prakritisvabhaavaat!

Karomi yaddyatsakalam parasmaih narayanayetisamarpayetat!!

Meaning: {May the lotus-eyed Shree Krishna bestow you with his blessings. May the rains happen on time and the earth is full of prosperity. May this country be devoid of sorrow and the Brahmans live here without fear. May the childless attain progeny, the poor get money and all live a long life. All the pilgrimages like Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Sindhu, Saraswati etc. shower their blessings where ever the name of Lord Krishna is taken. May the Goddess of knowledge, who wears white clothes, holding a Veena (musical instrument), who sits on white lotus; take care of me always. Whatever I do from my body, heart, voice, self-consciousness and my nature; I proffer it to you Lord Narayana}

Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Aarti

Jai Shree Swasthani Mata, Maiya Jai Shree Swasthani Mata!

Tumko nishdin dhyawat, Parvati Mata!! Aum Jai!!

Teen netron waali, chaar bhuja Mata!

Khadaga, charama, trishul, kamal shobha pata!! Aum Jai!!

Jis ghar mein tum rehti, tahaan sab sadgun aata!

Tumhara vrat karke, sab sambhav ho jaata!! Aum Jai!!

Navraj ko raja banaya, Goma ko rajmata!

Agastya muni ko yeh sab, Sukumar sunata!! Aum Jai!!

Ashwathama Rishi rasatal mein batata!

Mahadevji ki puja tumhare mann bhaata!! Aum Jai!!

Paush, maagh mahiney mein jo jan tumhara vrat kar paata!

Tumhari kripa se who, manovaanchit phal paata!! Aum Jai!!

Shree Swasthani Mataji ki aarti, jo jan nit gaata!

Ridhi-Sidhi, such, sampati, jee bhar ke paata!! Aum Jai!!

Content for the back cover of the book

Shree Swasthani Mataji’s Vrat (Fast) is one of the most revered fasts. It gives the desired results to the devotees who undertake it. Its glory is beyond imagination. By just doing it once, the devotee gets the worldly pleasures in this life while attains the heavenly abode of the God thereafter. My wife and I want to spread the grandness of this fast to maximum people. We pray to Shree Swasthani Mataji to bless everyone and to fulfil your desires.