Brahmacharini

The word brahmacharini stems from two Sanskrit roots: • Brahma (shortened from Brahman), means "the one self-existent Spirit, the Absolute Reality, Universal Self, Personal God, the sacred knowledge". • charini is the feminine version of one who is a charya, which means "occupation with, engaging, proceeding, behaviour, conduct, to follow, moving in, going after". The word brahmacharini in Vedic texts means a woman who pursues sacred religious knowledge. == Legend ==

According to various versions of the legend, the maiden Parvati once resolved to marry the deity Shiva. Although her parents attempted to dissuade her, she remained steadfast in her determination and undertook a penance that is said to have lasted 5,000 years. Despite this, Parvati did not waver in her resolve. She adopted the ascetic way of life characteristic of Shiva, dwelling in the mountains, practicing austerities, yoga, and asceticism, and subsisting solely on bael leaves and river water. In this form, she came to be revered as Brahmacharini. Her perseverance eventually drew Shiva’s attention. Disguised, he approached Parvati and attempted to dissuade her by listing his own flaws and peculiarities. Parvati, however, remained undeterred. == Temples ==

• Maa Brahmacharini Devi Durga Mandir is located at Hanuman ganj, Ballia, Uttar Pradesh ==References==