According to legend, the goddess performed deep penance beneath a sacred mango tree on the banks of the Vegavati River. She created a lingam out of sand with her own hands and worshipped Lord Shivan with utmost devotion. When the river’s waters began to rise, threatening to wash away the lingam, Parvati shielded it with her body and continued her prayers with faith. Moved by her devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before her and accepted her once again as his bride.
But her journey did not end there. In Kanchipuram, she manifested in her most powerful form as Adi Shakti to destroy the demon Bhandasura, who symbolised arrogance and evil. After his defeat, she became known as Goddess Kamakshi, the merciful and compassionate Mother who blesses all of Kanchi.
Even today, devotees believe that Kamakshi embodies both love and strength, the nurturing mother who protects her children and the fierce goddess who restores balance to the world.
Source : thetemplegirl, Balcony Banter, Sannidhi The Presence