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Pinaka: FAQ & Sources
पिनाकPinaka is the mighty bow of Shiva, who is therefore called Pinakin and Pinakapani. With it he destroyed the three flying cities of the asuras as Tripurantaka. In the Ramayana the same bow was kept by King Janaka, and the young Rama broke it while stringing it to win Sita.
Borne byशिShiva
Frequently asked questions
What is the name of Shiva's bow?
Pinaka. Shiva is called Pinakin and Pinakapani because of it.
Who broke Shiva's bow?
Rama, at King Janaka's court in Mithila, while stringing it to win Sita's hand.
What did Shiva destroy with the Pinaka?
Tripura, the three flying cities of the asuras, destroyed with a single arrow.
Sources
- Valmiki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, sargas 66-67 and 75
- Shiva Purana, Rudra Samhita (Yuddha Khanda)
- Mahabharata, Karna Parva (Tripura story)
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