Hindu Mytholoy - Mesmerising Mythology - Ganesha Teaches Kubera a Lesson

Kubera is the God of Wealth and the one who controls all the riches in the world. He wanted to flaunt off his richness and hospitality. So, he was always into organizing lavish parties. He had his own list of VIPs whom he would invite to his parties and ensured that they attended them. But Kubera was not satisfied. "If only I could get Lord Shiva and Parvathi to my party, people would respect me even more" he thought to himself.

With this intention, Kubera went to Kailash to invite Shiva and Parvathi to his palace for a feast. Kubera entered as Shiva and Parvathi were in conversation. He paid his respects to them and explained what had brought him there. Shiva and Parvathi looked at each other. They could senise that the invite had an ulterior motive and was not because of Kubera's true devotion towards them. Shiva asked Kubera the reason for the celebration. Kubera fumbled a lot as he did not have any proper reason to give or an occasion to mention. He replied it was just to celebrate life in general. Shiva conveyed his 'no' as he was tied up with a lot of work and Parvathi added that she couldn't make it without her better half. So, they agreed on sending Ganesha on their behalf as he loved eating. Ganesha looked at Kubera for a minute and realized his true intention. Ganesha took leave from his parents and set off with Kubera.

Kubera performed the ceremonial welcome rituals; took Ganesha on a tour of his palace and offered the delicious food specially prepared for him. In no time Ganesha finished all the food on his plate and asked for more. Kubera ordered his servants to get more and Ganesha finished everything in the blink of an eye. Kubera was panicked; he ordered his servants to bring all the food that was cooked for the day. Ganesha devoured the entire lot in one go and asked for more; Kubera ordered more food to be prepared. But Ganesha was impatient and started eating even the vessels and furniture around. Kubera who was in sweats and tears rushed to Kailash, seeking the help of Lord Shiva and Parvathi. The Goddess advised Kubera to offer Ganesha just a handful of cooked rice with pure devotion. Kubera did so and Ganesha's hunger was satiated with that. Patting his stomach Ganesha told Kubera, 'I am full now! Thank you! Kubera's pride was totally crushed.

Children, what do you learn from this story?

Gods can only be pleased by true devotion and love and not by offers of expensive gifts.

We should always share what we have. Sharing is caring and brings happiness.

- Retold by Ashwini Vinodh