Parents-Blessings
🕉️ The divine competition between Lord Ganesha and Kartikeya
Once upon a time on Mount Kailash, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati decided to test who among their two sons — Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya (also known as Skanda or Murugan) — was wiser and more devoted.
They announced a challenge:
“Whoever goes around the world three times and returns first will receive a special fruit of knowledge and immortality.”
🐓 Kartikeya’s swift journey
Kartikeya, the god of war, had a fast and magnificent vehicle — his divine peacock. Confident and full of energy, he immediately mounted his peacock and flew around the world at great speed, crossing mountains, oceans, and forests.
🐀 Ganesha’s thoughtful choice
Lord Ganesha, on the other hand, had a humble mouse as his vehicle. Knowing it was impossible to match Kartikeya’s speed, he paused and thought deeply about the true meaning of the task.
After a moment of reflection, Ganesha folded his hands, circumambulated his parents Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati three times, and bowed before them.
🕉️ The wisdom revealed
When Kartikeya returned, tired but proud, he found Ganesha already holding the fruit.
Puzzled, Kartikeya asked how his brother could have finished first.
Ganesha calmly replied:
“For me, my parents are my entire world. Going around you three times is equal to going around the world three times.”
Shiva and Parvati, pleased by Ganesha’s devotion and wisdom, awarded him the fruit.
🌺 Meaning of the story
This beloved story teaches us:
- The power of devotion and respect towards parents
- True wisdom often lies beyond literal interpretation
- Humility and thoughtfulness triumph over mere speed and strength