Abstract
This story, from the Skanda Purana (compiled ca. 700–1150), is a variation on the familiar theme of the miraculous sex change. Set in the context of medieval devotion, it highlights the idea of the devotee being in a sense more powerful than the deity. The devotee’s powers of perception are able to transform a man into a woman, and not even a deity can undo the transformation.
Translated from Sriskandamahapuranam (Delhi: Nag Publishers, 1986), originally published by Shri Venkatesvara Steam Press, Mumbai, no date.
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© 2000 Ruth Vanita and Saleem Kidwai
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Vanita, R. (2000). Skanda Purana: Sumedha and Somavan (Sanskrit). In: Vanita, R., Kidwai, S. (eds) Same-Sex Love in India. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-137-05480-7_6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-137-05480-7_6
Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, New York
Print ISBN: 978-0-312-29324-6
Online ISBN: 978-1-137-05480-7
eBook Packages: Palgrave Social & Cultural Studies CollectionSocial Sciences (R0)