The Asura Queen

Here was this unfortunate Warrior Princess who married the Asura King. More unfortunate was the fact that this was a happy marriage.

Her husband,remaining true to what people say, was Asura nature,warred,pillaged,conquered,tortured and even tried to take over Heaven

"I would have done it differently",sighed the Asura Queen.

The Gods understandably alarmed begged Devi to get rid of this menace.

After a long and bitter battle the mighty Goddess killed the Asura.

With her long hair floating bereft in the wind,the Queen stood before the Goddess. " Now what will happen to my kingdom when you have destroyed their brave and just ruler?" she cried.

Devi looked at the Asura Queen. She admired her greatly. She had administered the kingdom excellently when her pig- headed husband was busy pillaging.

" Er...you rule the kingdom. You were doing it well. Just continue...",she added.Devi also wanted to return home fast. Numerous parties were being arranged to laud her victory.

The Queen nodded regally ," Remember you said that....",she said."And tell the Devas that they must leave my kingdom alone".

The Devi promised. And left.

The asuras prospered under the Queen's rule...

But other legends say that the Queen begged never to be parted from her husband. Impressed by her devotion the Goddess granted her a boon. She would become the hibiscus flower,the red glow of which would always adorn the great Goddess wherever she is worshipped.

Two stories. Choose yours...