Why did Shiva kill Kamdev?

There are plenty of Shiva legends that many people are unaware of. The story of kamdev, the God of Love and Pleasure, is one such example. Born in Brahma's mind and destroyed by Shiva, his story is tragic for sure. Let us read about how Kamdev was cursed by Shiva and how he recovered from the imprecation.

Shiva turns Kamdev into ashes; Image source- www.jagran.com

It was the time when Sati was deeply hurt by her father's insult to Shiva and decided to take her life by entering the fire. Her death left Shiva helpless and furious, and he decided to abandon the world. He went into profound meditation and abandoned all of his responsibilities. This caused a massive imbalance in nature, putting everyone in danger.

Meanwhile, Sati was born as Parvati and wished to marry Shiva again, this time. On the other hand, Shiva ignored her feelings as he had given up all worldly pleasures. These problems were worsened by Tarakasura, a demon whose dominance over the world had begun to grow. When he learned of Shiva's ascetic meditation, his power grew without fear, because no one could kill him unless he was born to Shiva and Parvati.

Shiva was so absorbed in his meditation that his union with Parvati was becoming increasingly impossible, while Tarakashura's deeds were becoming intolerable. After so much discussion among all the Gods, Lord Indra decided to summon kamdev. He was the only one who could save them from their vulnerable situation. Indra instructed him to disturb Shiva's ascetic meditation and stir his desire to marry Parvati within him.

Kamdev is the God of love and attachment. As his name suggests, he is the one who is in charge of all human beings' carnal appetites. His weapon is a sugarcane-based cosmic bow with a honey-based string. He is always accompanied by Rati (his wife) and Vasanta (personification of spring), Gandharvas (heavenly men), and Kinnaras (transgenders).

Kamdev approached Shiva and attempted to mesmerize him with perfumed flowers and a pleasant breeze, but he did not reciprocate. He was about to retaliate against the process when his eyes went upon the divine-looking Parvati. Shiva's trance was shattered at the time, and he was blown away by the romantic setting and the heavenly beauty of Parvati. He gradually came near her and, grabbing this golden chance, Kamdev shot his arrow of love into Shiva's heart.

Unfortunately, Shiva detected the change in his own conduct and discovered Kamdev hiding behind a tree. His rage had no bounds, and before Kamdev could react, he cursed him to turn into ash. Controlling the situation, Parvati reassured him and explained the true motivation behind the strategy. Meanwhile, the Gods descend upon him to prove kamdev's innocence.

Hearing the news of Kamdev's death, his wife Rati came rushing. Tears rolled down her eyes continuously, and she was inconsolable. Her innocent eyes were full of tears and pain. All she did was beg Shiva to return her husband back to her. Shiva pitied her situation and changed his curse. He predicted that Kamdev would reincarnate in the Dwapara Yuga as the son of Krishna and Rukmini, kill the demon Shambar, and eventually reunite with Rati.

Later, Shiva and Parvati got married and gave birth to Kartikeya. He grew up and killed Tarakasura, bringing the world peace and prosperity. Kamadev was also reincarnated as Pradyumna. He defeated the demon Shambar and reunited with his wife, Rati.

Shiva turns Kamdev into ashes; Image source- www.jagran.com