The Golden Palace of Kailash: A Tale of Generosity and Humility

Once upon a time, Goddess Parvati got bored of living in caves and caverns. She had two small children and many inconveniences. She told Lord Shankar about her troubles and requested that like other gods, a small palace should also be built for her.

Shankar ji liked his idea. Vishwakarma Maharaj, the most capable architect of the universe, was called. First the map was prepared, then after the Bhoomi Pujan at an auspicious time, the work started at a fast pace. After all, the palace belonged to Shankar Parvati and it was not going to be an ordinary one.

The huge palace was like a whole city, like a unique work of art, like heaven on earth. The builder was no ordinary person! Vishwakarma had put in all his energy in giving shape to his imagination.

With him was Kubera, the owner of all the gold. He made up for the remaining gap by covering Shiva's magnificent abode with gold.

There was cheering in all the three worlds. A unique city was built which had never existed anywhere on earth before. Ganesh and Kartikeya's joy knew no bounds. Parvati was extremely happy.

There was only one concern that who should be entrusted with the task of performing the housewarming ceremony in this unique palace. That Brahmin should also be of the same level as the palace. He sought advice from Lord Shankar. After much thought, Lord Shankar suggested a name - Ravan.

The one who had created a sensation in the whole world with his knowledge, wisdom, prudence and studies, who had the power to travel in all the three worlds, who had pleased many gods with his continuous penance and whose fame was spreading prosperity in all the ten directions,

Such a Ravana was invited from Sri Lanka to this palace built on Mount Kailash for the worship of Grihapravesh. Ravana gladly accepted to come and at the right time he appeared for the Havan of Grihapravesh with all auspicious omens and auspicious objects.

The griha pravesh puja was extraordinary. The best men and women of the three worlds were present in their best splendour. The air was resonating with the sound of Vedic hymns, the drops of water from the achamana were purifying the atmosphere.

The remaining impurities were being burnt in the flames rising from the sacred fire. After the completion of this unique ritual, Mother Parvati, overjoyed to feed the guests, asked the Brahmin Ravana to ask for Dakshina.

You are not only my mother but the mother of the entire world Maa Gauri, how can I ask for dakshina from you?" Ravana became the epitome of humility.

No, Brahmin, no ritual is complete without Dakshina and your arrival has made the entire festival more beautiful than expected. Ask for anything you wish, Lord Shiva will surely please you." Parvati said with insistence.

I do not want to trouble you mother, I have got a lot without even asking for it. What more do I want than your darshan?" Ravana said even more politely.

This is your greatness, O King of Lanka, but Dakshina is necessary for the completion of the ritual. You can ask for whatever you want, we will respect you completely." Parvati requested again.

I feel hesitant Devi." Ravana said lowering his eyes.

"Leave your hesitations and think about the completion of the yagya, Brahmin." Parvati reminded Niti.

Pausing for a moment, Ravana said, "If you are really pleased with my worship, if you really want to satisfy me and if Lord Shiva really has the power to give everything as Dakshina, then give me this golden city."

Parvati was stunned for a moment! But Lord Shankar, sitting peacefully nearby, said in a steady voice - Amen. Ravana's happiness knew no bounds. On the request of Lord Shiva, Vishwakarma lifted this city from Mount Kailash and established it in Sri Lanka.

From then on Ravana's Lanka was called golden and he fell from the divine qualities and started drowning in worldly desires. Parvati never again had the desire for a palace.

So much virtue was accumulated by this donation that he and his children never faced any trouble in the caves.