Lord Shiva, a prominent deity in Hinduism, is often depicted as an ascetic yogi residing in the Himalayas. He is known for his fierce and benevolent forms, embodying the cycle of creation and destruction. Shiva is the Destroyer within the Hindu trinity, alongside Brahma the Creator and Vishnu the Preserver. He is associated with various symbols, including the trident (trishul), the snake (Nag), the crescent moon, and the sacred river Ganges. His consort is the goddess Parvati, and their children are Ganesha and Kartikeya. Shiva is revered for his wisdom, power, and ability to transcend the limitations of the material world.   Devotees often worship Shiva through meditation, chanting mantras, and offering prayers at temples dedicated to him