A Tale of Passion and Sensuality: Kama and Rati's love story

You must’ve heard about Kamadeva, the Hindu God of love and lust. Kama rules desire, sensuality, and pleasure. He symbolizes attraction and is thought to be the Indian Cupid. However, what you might not be aware of, is that his wife Rati is also the goddess of passion, carnal desire, and sexual pleasure. Now, imagine the passionate love story these two would’ve had.

Kama and Rati; Source: VedicFeed

Known by many other names like Atanu, Ananga, Manmatha, and Madana; Kama is said to be one of Brahma’s sons according to mythology. Rati is considered to be the daughter of Daksha Prajapati. But, how did these two meet to form the greatest union of all time?

Let us dive in to know more.

According to some narratives, Goddess Laxmi’s exquisite form called ‘Soundarya Lakshmi’ played a major role in making this eternal love story a success. It is said that Rati, now known as a symbol of beauty and youth was not that pretty then. This is why she was not able to draw in any eligible suitors. However, this sad state of affairs changed when Goddess Lakshmi blessed her with the art of ‘Solah Shringar’ (sixteen embellishments).

This benevolence of Goddess Laxmi made Rati the most beautiful woman in the whole universe. Hence, Kamadeva who was enchanted by her beauty decided to make her his chief consort.

Matsya Purana on the other hand, states that Kama was reincarnated as Pradyumana, Lord Krishna’s son. In this avatar, he completed his love story with Rati who was waiting for him as Mayavati.

Several tales abound about their relationship. A few of them suggest that once Kama was burnt by Lord Shiva, known for his destructive rage. As a result of Rati begging for her husband’s life and Shiva realizing his mistake, he decided to bring Kama back to life. But, in a bodiless form. This is where Kama got his names Ananga and Atanu from. It is also said that the spirit of Kama and pleasure still keeps wandering the universe and hence, makes us desire love.

According to Mahabharata, Kama, and Rati’s union blessed them with two sons. They were named Harsha which means joy, and Yash which means grace. This is a very interesting point to note as it basically affirms that sexual union and harmony between two lovebirds leads to joy and grace!!

Kama and Rati are always displayed alongside each other in the temple sculptures. In some temples, they are also portrayed as ‘welcome sculptures’, as they represent prosperity and good fortune. Additionally, they are also worshipped by people who are single and waiting for love to change their lives!

Basant Panchami, which is an Indian festival related to the worship of Goddess Saraswati, surprisingly also celebrates Kama and Rati! Devotees perform Kamadeva Rati Puja to ask for love, beauty, youth, and romance on this occasion.

In fact, Hindu wedding rituals also feature Kama and Rati. During one ceremony, the bride’s feet are painted with the images of Suka (a parrot), which is the vehicle of Lord Kama. So, if you are facing problems in your love life or haven’t found your soulmate yet, you know whom to ask for help.