Shiv-Kamdev Katha: When Kamadeva's 'flower arrow' became the cause of his death, why did Mahadev open his third eye?

News Topical, Digital Desk : In Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva is considered a "recluse" and "Yogeshwar," whose penance is impossible to disturb. However, a time came when, for the benefit of the gods, the god of love, Kamadeva, had to shoot an arrow at Shiva's tomb. This resulted in Kamadeva's body being reduced to ashes. What was the compulsion and what was the mystery behind it? Let's find out.

Why did Cupid have to shoot the arrow?

According to the Shiva Purana, a demon named Tarakasura was wreaking havoc everywhere. He had received a boon that he could only be killed by Shiva's son. At that time, after Sati's death, Mahadev was engaged in intense penance. Until his penance was complete and he married Goddess Parvati, the birth of Kartikeya was impossible. At the request of the gods, Kamadeva agreed to this difficult task. He created the atmosphere of spring and shot a flower arrow at Shiva, arousing his love.

Shiva's anger and the end of Kamadeva

As soon as Kamadeva's arrow struck Shiva , his meditation was broken. Extremely enraged by the interruption of his meditation, Mahadev opened his third eye. The fierce fire emanating from his third eye instantly burned Kamadeva to ashes. His body was destroyed, and he became known as "Ananga" (one without a body).

Rati's prayer and the rebirth of Kamadeva

When Kamadeva's wife, Rati, saw this, she began to lament. She begged Mahadev for forgiveness. After calming down, Shiva explained that all this had happened for the welfare of the universe. He granted a boon that in the Dwapara Yuga, when Lord Krishna would incarnate, Kamadeva would be born as his son, Pradyumna, and would be reunited with Rati.

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