On the occasion of Mahashivratri, many young women pray to Lord Shiva for the blessing of a loving and supportive spouse. This stems from the belief in Lord Shiva as the ultimate ideal of a husband, with his devotion to Parvati (his wife), embodying the qualities of a perfect partner—love, commitment, and balance. And while many believe that this is an archaic practise, it is important to look at how these ancient traditions can resonate with modern values and ideas of partnership. If one were to look reinterpret the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati – often seen as a divine couple – it comes down to following the basic tenets of respect, understanding and equality.

1. Equality in Relationships

Traditionally, Lord Shiva and Parvati are seen as a divine couple, where both partners are equally revered. Shiva, though considered an ascetic and a symbol of detachment, shares a deep, respectful partnership with Parvati. Their relationship is based on mutual respect, understanding, and complementing each other's strengths. In modern relationships, these values resonate with the idea that a healthy marriage or partnership is based on equality. 

2. Inner Strength and Self-Realization

One of the most significant qualities of Lord Shiva is his inner strength, which comes from self-realization and self-control. He embodies the idea of being content with oneself, independent, and detached from material desires. In the modern world, many women (and men) seek to find these same qualities within themselves before entering into a relationship.

3. Partnership with Mutual Growth

Shiva’s relationship with Parvati is also seen as one of mutual spiritual growth. He is not just a husband; he is also a mentor, guide, and companion in Parvati’s own journey toward self-realization. In today’s world, this dynamic resonates with the idea that a healthy marriage or relationship is one where both individuals are partners in growth, inspiring and supporting each other toward greater success, fulfillment, and self-actualization.

4. The Divine Protector

Shiva’s protective nature as a husband who ensures the safety and well-being of his loved ones is also an aspect of his appeal to women seeking a good husband. In the modern context, this protection doesn’t just mean physical safety, but emotional security, trust, and respect.

5. Love Beyond Conventional Norms

Lord Shiva’s relationship with Parvati also transcends traditional gender roles and norms. He is often depicted as an androgynous figure, representing both masculine and feminine energies within himself. This challenges conventional ideas of gender roles within relationships.

6. Secure Identities 

Lord Shiva’s detachment is another key element that resonates with modern relationships. In a world where attachment to material possessions, status, or even relationships can often lead to conflict and dissatisfaction, Shiva and Parvathi represent a relationship where both individuals are secure in their own identities.

While traditionally, women may have worshiped Lord Shiva seeking a good husband, a modern take on this can expand beyond the notion of "finding a husband" to a more holistic perspective of self-empowerment, spiritual growth, and mutual respect in relationships.