Stories of Shiva
Timeless tales for all ages
Preface
Lord Shiva, the Supreme Being in the Hindu tradition, is known as the destroyer of evil and the
compassionate protector of the universe. His life is filled with mystical events, profound wisdom,
and acts of boundless love. This collection presents some of the most captivating stories of Shiva,
written to inspire and engage readers across generations.
The Birth of Ganga on Earth
Once, the sacred river Ganga resided in the heavens. When King Bhagiratha prayed for her
descent to purify his ancestors, the gods worried her force would shatter the earth. Lord Shiva
caught Ganga in his matted hair, letting her flow gently to the world below.
Neelkanth – The Blue-Throated Lord
During the churning of the ocean, a deadly poison, Halahala, emerged that threatened all creation.
Lord Shiva, in his compassion, drank the poison to save the world. His consort Parvati stopped it in
his throat, turning it blue, and from then he was called Neelkanth.
The Dance of Destruction – Tandava
When enraged by injustice or to destroy evil, Shiva performs the cosmic Tandava dance. Each
movement symbolizes creation, preservation, and destruction, showing that endings lead to new
beginnings.
Ardhanarishvara – The Divine Union
Shiva and Parvati are often depicted as Ardhanarishvara, a form split equally between male and
female halves. This symbolizes the inseparability of masculine and feminine energies in the
universe.
Shiva and the Hunter
Once, a hunter unknowingly worshiped Shiva while waiting for prey. He plucked leaves from a Bilva
tree and dropped them over a Shiva Lingam, fasting the entire day. Impressed, Shiva granted him
liberation, proving that devotion matters more than rituals.
Kartikeya’s Birth
To defeat the demon Tarakasura, the gods sought the birth of a divine warrior. Shiva and Parvati’s
son, Kartikeya, grew into a mighty commander, leading the gods to victory over the demon.
The Marriage of Shiva and Parvati
Parvati, the reincarnation of Sati, performed intense penance to win Shiva’s heart. Her devotion
moved him, and their union symbolized the harmony of asceticism and worldly life.
Shiva and the Ganas
Shiva’s companions, the Ganas, are loyal beings who follow his will without question. One famous
story tells of Nandi, the bull, who guarded Kailash with unwavering devotion and strength.
The Story of Ravana and the Atmalinga
Ravana, the demon king, tried to take the Atmalinga from Shiva. Through a series of divine tricks,
the Linga was placed in Gokarna, where it remains a sacred site to this day.
Shiva’s Grace to Markandeya
When young Markandeya was destined to die at sixteen, he worshiped Shiva with all his heart.
When Yama, the god of death, came to take him, Shiva appeared, defeated Yama, and blessed
Markandeya with eternal youth.
