The Puranic texts mention that Lord Ganesha was adored and worshipped by Goddess Parvati. The ancient legend mentions that once the King of Lanka, Ravana, engaged in deep meditation or tapas on Lord Shiva to acquire the Atma Linga which would make him immortal. As the Lord of destruction was pleased by the devotion of Ravana, Shiva asked Ravana to request for whatever he desires. However, Ravana asked for Goddess Parvati, Shiva`s consort, due to the interference of Lord Vishnu and Sage Narada.

Lord Shiva had no other option and hence gave Parvati (Uma) to Ravana the demon king. Then Goddess Parvati worshipped and prayed to Lord Ganesha to save her from this situation and create obstructions and hindrances in the way of Ravana. Ganesha granted her wish and took the form of a Brahmana (Brahmin). He appeared before Ravana on the way through which he planned to carry the goddess.

The elephant-faced deity informed the king of Lanka that Lord Shiva had cheated him by not presenting Ravana with the real Parvati, but an imposter. Ganesha also told that Goddess Parvati was originally hiding in the abode of Maya Danava in Patala or Naraka (Nether World). Ravana believed the Brahmana and immediately left Parvati. He went to the abode of Maya in pursuit of Parvati. There he fell in love with Mandodari who was the daughter of Maya. Thus, Ravana married Mandodari asked for forgiveness from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and prayed to them.

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