According to a legend, Parvati once requested Shiva to take her to a beautiful grove named Nandankanan. Shiva was surprised, but promised to take her there. They soon set off to Nandankanan. Parvati was amazed to see many varieties of beautiful trees and flowers growing in the grove. Among them, there was one particular tree that was superior to all. Parvati curiously asked Shiva, “Which is this tree? And why is it different from others?” “Parvati, this is Kalpavriksh, the divine tree that grants all wishes!” Shiva replied. On hearing this, Parvati beamed with joy. Suddenly, a thought came to her mind and she wished to have a daughter. As soon as she expressed her wish, a beautiful girl emerged from the tree. An overjoyed Parvati loved the girl at once, and named her Ashok Sundari. Parvati blessed Ashok Sundari and told her that she would have a king named Nahush as her husband. Shiva and Parvati returned to Mount Kailash while Ashok Sundari started living in Nandankanan.
Ganesha and Karttikey’s Sister Ashok Sundari
