Annapurna and the Magical Feast of Kashi

When the world grows hungry, Mother Annapurna opens a magical kitchen in the city of Kashi. Discover how her loving care and golden ladle teach Lord Shiva and all living beings the true warmth of generosity.

ages 5-7

No narration in this language yet.

High up on the sparkling Mount Kailash, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati sat talking about the big wide world. Shiva softly wondered if physical things, like food and clothes, were just simple playful magic. Parvati smiled gently, knowing that food was filled with love and kept every living heart beating with happiness. To show how much care and warmth food brings to everyone, Parvati decided to play a quiet, loving game.

For a short while, all the food in the world vanished into thin air! The bustling kitchens became quiet, the fruit trees rested, and people felt sleepy and hungry. Even Lord Shiva missed the cozy comfort of a warm, shared meal. He quickly realized that living beings needed nutritious food to laugh, play, and learn every day.

With a heart full of motherly love, Parvati transformed into Annapurna, the Goddess of Food and Care. She went down to the beautiful city of Kashi and opened a grand, magical kitchen. She held a glowing golden bowl that never ran empty and a spoon that served endless sweetness. Soon, the delicious aroma of warm rice and spices drifted through the air, inviting everyone to come and eat.

Hearing about the wondrous feast, Lord Shiva walked into the kitchen carrying a tiny bowl. He bowed politely to Mother Annapurna and said, 'Please share your kindness and food with me.' Annapurna smiled brightly and scooped a generous, warm ladleful of sweet rice into his bowl. Shiva smiled with delight, thanking her for taking care of all living creatures.

Soon, people, birds, and forest animals gathered together in Kashi for the wonderful celebration. Mother Annapurna lovingly served every single guest until all hearts were glowing and all tummies were full. From that happy day on, everyone remembered to say a warm thank-you before eating, sharing their food with kindness whenever they could.

Food is a loving gift that nourishes our bodies and brings us together with gratitude and joy.

About this story

Retold from: Retold from traditional legends in the Skanda Purana

annapurna ages 5-7

Bandana

ॐ अन्नपूर्णायै नमो नमः
om annapūrṇāyai namo namaḥ

EnglishO Annapurna, who nourishes everyone — we bow to you again and again.

नेपालीहे अन्नपूर्णा, सबैलाई अन्न दिने माता — हामी तपाईंलाई बारम्बार नमस्कार गर्छौं।

हिन्दीहे अन्नपूर्णा, सबको अन्न देने वाली माता — हम आपको बार-बार नमस्कार करते हैं।

Shloka

अन्नपूर्णे सदापूर्णे शङ्करप्राणवल्लभे । ज्ञानवैराग्यसिद्ध्यर्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वति ॥
annapūrṇe sadāpūrṇe śaṅkaraprāṇavallabhe, jñānavairāgyasiddhyarthaṃ bhikṣāṃ dehi ca pārvati
O Annapurna, ever full and beloved of Shiva, grant us the nourishment of wisdom and a heart that is not ruled by wanting more.