Narayan Ravi - Mumbai

Aadi Story

Kanyakumari is 'Kanya' or the child goddess. A demon called Banasura tormented the Gods to no end- he could be put to end only by an unwed female. Kanyakumari was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and wanted to marry Him. But on the day of the marriage, Narada made the sound of a cock at dawn indicating that the muhurtam was over-so the marriage party went back. Devi was hurt and angry-she threw away all the food and broke all her bangles and went into deep penance. It was then that Banasura approached her,and Devi slaughtered him immediately. This temple is a Shakti Peetha where Devi Sati's spine is believed to have fallen. Kanyakumari is worshipped as the child Goddess, Katyayani - the sister of Srikrishna. Swami Vivekananda meditated here on a rock in the middle of the sea for 3 days and had darshan of Devi. This rock is famous as the Vivekananda rock or Sri paada paara - the rock with Devi's footprints. This is one of the 4 temples constructed by Parasurama around the borders of ancient greater Kerala for its protection. May Kanyakumari bless and protect us all always.

Om Shakti