Chapter 1
Lord Shiva and Parvati's Visit to Amravati
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati arrived at a beautiful temple in the city of Amravati. While resting, Parvati proposed playing a game of dice. The temple priest predicted Shiva's victory before the game ended, but Parvati won. Angered by his false prediction, Parvati cursed the priest to suffer from leprosy. Later, when celestial nymphs visited the temple, they taught the suffering priest the Solah Somvar Vrat procedure. The priest observed the 16 Monday fasts with utmost devotion and was restored to full health.
Chapter 2
The Royal Marriage of the Princess
Seeing the priest cured, Parvati removed her curse and asked about the ritual. She shared the Solah Somvar Vrat with her alienated son Kartikeya, who observed it and reconciled with his parents. Later, a royal princess pledged to marry whoever wore a specific garland carried by an elephant. By divine grace, the elephant placed the garland around the neck of a humble Brahmin boy who was observing the 16 Monday fasts, leading to their royal wedding.
Chapter 3
The Trial of Neglect and Restoration
After assuming royal status, the prince continued his Monday fasts, but his wife neglected to join him or take the holy Prasad out of vanity. Consequently, royal misfortune struck: the prince was driven into exile and faced severe poverty. Recognizing her arrogance and neglect of Shiva's Prasad, the princess observed the Solah Somvar Vrat with deep repentance. Lord Shiva restored their royal kingdom, joy, and spiritual harmony.
Reading context
Katha, retelling, and practice
This public guide is a concise devotional retelling. Episodes and details can differ across Purana, Ramayana, regional, and sampradaya traditions.
- Read the narrative first, then reflect on the takeaway below.
- For a vrata or formal recitation, use the edition accepted by your family or tradition.
- Use the associated deity guides to understand symbols and worship context.