81. Bhagavatha - Yasoda Ties Srikrishna to a Wooden Mortar

 81.Srimad Bhagavatam - Yasoda Ties Srikrishna to a Wooden Mortar

Once, Yasoda was personally churning the curds as her maids were busy with other work. She was recalling Krishna's infantile sports and expressed them in the form of songs.

Krishna, seeing his mother churning the curds, longed for a suck and stopped her. Yasoda began suckling Him when she suddenly remembered milk kept on the hearth. She placed Him aside and hurriedly went to save milk from overflowing. 

Krishna felt ignored and angrily took a flat stone (used for grinding condiments) and hit the curd pot. 

He went inside and stealthily ate fresh butter. Yasoda saw the broken curd pot and, knowing that it was the work of her son, had a hearty laugh. 

She saw Krishna standing on an overturned base of wooden mortar and freely giving away fresh churned butter to a monkey. She gently went up to Him from behind. Krishna hurriedly ran away, pretending to be afraid of her. 

Sukamuni said, "How does she know that He is indebted to the monkeys that served Him in His previous incarnation as Srirama? ”.

Yasoda, too, ran after Him but couldn't keep the pace due to her bulky hips. Yet she caught hold of Him, who was weeping aloud. She threatened to strike Him but threw the stick off as she was exceedingly fond of her son. 

Yasoda decided to tie Him to a wooden mortar with a string, thinking that He is a mere human. While doing so, the string fell short by an inch. Yasoda added another string to it. Then again, it fell short, and Yasoda had to attach another string. 

This process continued until she exhausted all the strings available at her house. Yasoda felt shameful when her maids laughed at her. She wondered how come I am unable to bind this boy. 

 

Seeing his mother over-exhausted, Krishna allowed Himself to be bound out of sheer compassion. 

Sukamuni said,” In this way, the Lord demonstrated that He is amenable to the excesses of His devotees, though He is the master of the Universe. Indeed, neither Brahma, Shiva nor Mahalakshmi received such grace from Him as Yasoda did”.

When Yasoda was engrossed in her household duties, Krishna noticed a pair of Arjuna trees. Long ago, Nalakubera and Manigriva, sons of Kubera, were reduced to trees by the curse of Sage Narada.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

80. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna Reveals His Form to Yasoda

80.Srimad Bhagavatam - Srikrishna  Reveals His Form to Yasoda 

Once, cowherds, along with Balaram, informed Yasoda that Vasudeva had eaten mud. Yasoda was upset and holding Vasudeva by hand and asked him, “Why did you eat mud”? Vasudeva nodded negatively and said, “ I never ate mud. They are all liars. Examine my mouth with your own eyes”.  

Yasoda said, “ If so, then open your mouth”. 

Inside His mouth, she saw the whole universe, both mobile and stationery, the atmosphere, four quarters, mountains, oceans, wind, fire, the moon, stars, heaven, the deities presiding over indriyas, the mind, the objects of senses, the three gunas, the body of Her son, the Time, people of Vraja including herself.

She wondered if it was a dream or illusion? I bow down to Brahma, who cannot be easily comprehended. The Lord is my Refuge by whose Maya is making me think I am Yasoda, wife of Nanda, this child is mine, and that the cowherds and cowherdess of Vraja as well as cattle wealth are mine.

When Yasoda thus realized this truth, the Almighty (Vasudava) cast his divine form in the form of material affection. 

King Parikshit asked Sukamuni how Yasoda could get such great merit?

He said, “When Mother Earth pleaded Brahma on atrocities meted on her, they approached Srihari. Brahma was informed that He would be born in Vraja at an appropriate time. 

Srihari asked Brahma to make necessary arrangements for it. Brahma requested the foremost of Vasus, Drona, and his wife, Dara, to be born as humans to take care of child Vasudeva (incarnation of Srihari). Hence, they were born as Nanda and Yasoda. 

Drona and Dara made a request to Brahma that they be blessed with undeterred devotion towards the Lord, for which Brahma accepted.

 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

M8. Mahabharata - Birth Secret of Satyavathi

M8. Mahabaratha - Adiparva - Birth Secret of Satyavathi 

Who is Suktimati and why did she gift her children to Vasu Maharaj? Who is the foster father of Satyavathi?

Once Vasu Maharaj was returning back in his chariot after meeting Indra at Heaven. He saw the Suktimati river obstructed by Kolahala Mountain and was in dire need of help.

Vasu Maharaj kicked the mountain, creating a big hole that allowed the river to pass through. Such was his strength and concern for others.

In gratitude, Suktimathi (in female form) gifted two children to the king, a male and female begotten through Kolahala. The male child grew up to become army chief. The king married the female child, Girika, on her attaining marriageable age. 

Instructed by Pitru devatas, the king was asked to obtain necessary food (meat) from the forest. During the same time, Girika wished to bear a child of the King. 

Thinking of his wife, the king went to the forest. Since it was autumn, the trees were bearing flowers, and the forest was looking very colorful. 

The king, thinking of his wife, passed his tejas, which he carefully collected in a leaf cup. Reciting mantras, he blessed it for a good progeny. He then instructed an eagle to deliver it to his wife. 

The eagle carried it with its claws and was heading home . Midway another eagle, thinking it as meat, began to snatch it. The quarrel resulted in tejas falling in the Yamuna river and was swallowed by a big fish. The fish was impregnated. 

In the course of time, a fisherman caught the big fish, and when he tore it open, he saw two babies in its womb, one male and another female. 

The fisherman promptly handed over the babies to Vasu Maharaj. The king retained the male baby and asked the fisherman to take care of the female baby. The male child grew up to become Matsya raja.

The fisherman (foster father) named the girl child as Matsya Kanda as she had an odour of fish but was beautiful. The fisherman taught her the art of rowing a boat, and eventually, she took up this job for travellers. Matsya Kanda was also called Satyavathi. Vasu Maharaj is her biological father.  

Satyavathi’s Birth Secret (Janma Rahasya)

Sathyavathi, her previous birth, was known as Achoda, the daughter of Pitrus. She had earned sufficient merits and was blessed that in her next birth, she would be revered as the mother of Ved Vyasa. 

Apsara’s Curse Ends

The fish that swallowed the sperm of Vasu Maharaj was indeed an apsara by the name Atrika. She was cursed by Lord Brahma to be born as fish and that her curse would end when she gave birth to humans. Apsara, on completion of the curse period, returned to heaven. 

Source: Mahabharatha- Adiparva - Amshavathara 

79. Bhagavatha - Balarama and Vasudeva's Childhood Pranks

79.Srimad Bhagavatam - Balarama and Vasudeva's Childhood Pranks

As months passed, both Balarama and Vasudeva started crawling in and around the house. They were roaming around nonstop, inspired by jingling bells tied to their waist belt and anklets. 

Slowly, they stepped out of the house and moved forward until they saw new faces of men and women. Feeling scared, they would turn back and return to their mothers. Rohini and Yasoda would receive them with a warm hug and feed them unmindful of the dirt they carried. 

Slowly, these kids began pranks. They would go near the calf and pull their tail. Women visiting their home would forget their job, watch the pranks, and enjoy themselves.

When they learned to walk, there were no restrictions on their movements. They would untie the calves and allow them to run towards its mother to suck milk. This became a nuisance to the residents of Vraja as the system was broken. (The calves were allowed to suck milk just before milking and again for the leftovers). Vasudeva felt it was unfair, and hence, he untied them. 

Once gopikas came to Yasoda with complaints about her son. They said, “Your son enters our house, eats not only what has been offered to him but also what has been kept for us. However, he doesn't come alone. He always comes in groups, treats, and then takes his share. After eating, he breaks the pots. 

If he doesn't find anything, he would get angry and scold all the inmates. (Subtly, He wanted to awaken them of their ignorance).

If the vessels are unreachable, he finds ways to reach them. We are sure that your son alone has done it through his ornaments. If we abused him, he would hit back in the same tone.

Vasudeva was hearing all these hiding behind his mother. Yasoda thought of warning him to stop such pranks and restrict his activities to home alone, but on seeing his innocent face, she couldn't. She felt it is natural for children to do mischief and ignored their comments.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

78. Bhagavatha - Sage Garga Does Naming Ceremony

78.Srimad Bhagavatam - Sage Garga Does Naming Ceremony 

Vasudeva made a request with his family priest Sage Garga to conduct a naming ceremony of his two sons (Rohini and Devaki's son) who were living in Vraja under the cover of Nanda. Accordingly, Sage Garga went to Vraja.

Nanda was extremely happy and welcomed Sage Garga with due honor. He said “ You are absolute and don't need anything. You must have come to do us a favour. Otherwise, you do not move around.  

You are an expert in astrology. You know the past, present, and the future. You have mastered, documented, and made them available to others. The Garga Samhita gives sufficient knowledge of what would be the outcome in the present birth for the action conducted in previous births. 

You are Brahmarishi. I humbly request you to conduct naming ceremonies for my sons. One who is born as Brahmin acts as a preceptor.

Though Garga had come for the said purpose, he never revealed it. Garga said, “ I am the priest of the Yadu family, and it's known to everyone. If I do namakarana samskara to this dark skinned boy and if it is known to Kamsa, he would suspect Him as Devaki’s son.

Also, you do not fully belong to the Yadava clan. People will presume that I am aware of the fact and hence did it. Kamsa is aware that you and Vasudeva are great friends. 

Kamsa suspects Devaki’s eighth child is not a girl baby. He is not fully convinced because they were imprisoned and chained. Kamsa was clearly informed that the child who is destined to kill him is living elsewhere. He is always thinking of it and struggling. It would be a blunder on our part to endanger the infants.

Nanda said, “This ritual is already delayed for long, and highly revered people like you alone should conduct the ritual and bless the infants. Your blessings are more important than other formalities. Accordingly, the Sage secretly performed the naming ceremony unknown to others.

The Sage said, “Rohini's son will be named ‘Rama’ (the delighter of the people), and due to his strength, he will also be called as”Bala”. Also, he would be called ‘Sankarshana’, meaning one who unites. Yadavas are egoistic, and their superiority complex results in infighting. Balarama would be the unifying force. 

The Sage said, “This infant of yours has manifested in three different colours, viz., white, red and yellow, and this time dark complexion. Earlier, he was born in the house of Vasudeva. Hence, he shall be named Vasudeva.

There are numerous names and forms of your son. This boy will bring happiness to you and the entire Gokula. This son of yours is a compeer of Lord Narayana in all aspects. Please look after Him carefully. In disguise, he told Nanda the secrets of Krishna's birth and His manifestation.

Sage Garga returned back to Mathura. Nanda felt happy and blessed.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

77. Bhagavatha - Trinavarta Gets Liberated

77. Srimad Bhagavata - Trinavarta Gets Liberated

Once Yasoda was fondling her son on her lap and suddenly she felt the weight of Him was that of a mountain. She was perplexed and couldn't bear the pain. She placed Him on the ground, prayed for the safety of the child, and got involved in her worldly duties.

Demon Trinavarta, Kamsa’s aide, appeared as a whirlwind at Vraja and snatched the baby with him. The entire village was covered with thick dust and darkness, and nothing was visible. 

Yasoda couldn't find her son, cried loudly, and fell unconscious. Hearing her cry, Gopikas came to her side. 

Trinavarta lifted Krishna upto a certain height in the sky but couldn't bear the heaviness of Him. He thought of getting rid of the burden by dropping Him. Krishna caught his neck and put him to death. Trinavarta died in his original form on the outskirts of Vraja with his body parts scattered. 

The women assembled there were astonished to find Krishna dangling on the demon's breast. They quickly picked Him up and handed Him over to Yasoda. Nanda, elders of the Vraja, Gopikas, and gopala were overwhelmed with joy to get Krishna back unhurt. 

One elder said “the wicked demon was destroyed by his own sin”. The pious soul is always protected by the Almighty”. 

Worship of Lord Vishnu, act of pious Purta, Ista, charities has been done by us due to which this infant (krishna) though virtually entered death, has been lucky enough to escape and come back. 

Nanda constantly remembered Vasudeva's warning.

Purta, as per Manusmriti, includes digging wells, big and small tanks, construction of temples, giving away food grains, and laying out the garden.

Sage Atri has defined Ista as ‘ pouring oblation into sacred fire, practicing austerities, truthfulness, preserving Vedas by committing them to memory, hospitality, and performing Vaiswasdeva’. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

M7. Mahabharata - Story of Uparichitha Vasu

 M7. Mahabharata - Story of Uparichitha Vasu

Who is Vasu Maharaj and why Indra befriended him? What is Indra Utsav?

King Janamejaya was eager to know the birth history of Vyasa Maharishi. He requested Sage Vaishampayana to narrate Maharishi’s story in detail. 

To begin with, the Sage narrated the story of Vasu Maharaj.

Vasu Maharaj ruled the Chedi Kingdom. He was a follower of dharma and was very powerful. The Kingdom was wealthy, cows were protected, and grains were grown in abundance. People were dharmic, wealthy, and peaceful. They never uttered lies, even for fun. Children followed their father's advice. Wild animals never attacked. 

Once, the king went to a forest and was charmed by the pleasant atmosphere. He desired to take up tapas. When it turned rigorous, Lord Indra was scared and tried to stop him.  

Indra knew Vasu Maharaj's capability and hence befriended him. He made a request to the king to stop the tapas and rule the kingdom for the welfare of the people. He said, “Dharma should not vanish and has to be protected by you. You would attain higher status in the future. Henceforth, you are my friend and can freely visit me at Heaven whenever you feel so.”

Indra gifted a chariot made of clear quartz (spatika ratha) to move around freely in air. Vasu Maharaj became known as ‘Uparichitha Vasu’. 

Indra also gifted Vaijayanthi, an ever fresh lotus garland, wearing it the king will not face defeat. He also gave Venu Danta (Stick) for protection. 

Vasu Maharaj, in order to honour Indra, treated the stick as a deity representing Indra. He struck the stick to the ground, decorated it with colorful clothes and garlands, and offered prayers. 

During the course of time, it was known as Indra Utsav. Indra was very happy and reciprocated with abundant rainfall. Vasu Maharaj was honoured as Chakravarthy. 

Vasu Chakravarthy had five sons who were equally powerful. During the course of time, he divided his kingdom among his sons. He would often visit Heaven to meet Indra.

Source: Mahabharatha- Adiparva - Amshavathara parva

76. Bhagavatha - Infant Krishna’s Ceremonial Ritual

76.Srimad Bhagavatam - Infant Krishna’s Ceremonial Ritual and Utkaca's Liberation 

Yasoda desired to perform a ceremonial ablution to her son to commemorate His turning on the bed which coincided with Janma nakshatra (Rohini Star). 

Women were playing musical instruments, some singing songs, and a few others chanting sacred texts. Brahmanas blessed the child and were honoured with clothes, food articles and meals. They were even asked to take away a cow and its calf of their choice.

The infant felt ‘drowsy’ and Yasoda gently put Him to sleep on a cradle underneath a cart undisturbed by others.

For a while, Yasoda was busy honouring her guests and did not hear the cry of her hungry son. Waiting for a suck, He tossed up His feet in an angry mood.

Hit by His tiny feet, the cart turned upside down. The heavy vessels/jars that were filled with milk, ghee, and curd got scattered, and the vessels broke. The wheels of the cart broke open, axle was cut, making a huge noise.

 

Yasoda, Nanda, and Gopikas, who had assembled there, were shocked and couldn't comprehend the situation. Gopalas who were playing there told that the cart was knocked down by the infant while crying. However, the elders did not accept it, as such an effect cannot be caused by an infant. 

Utkaca, a demon, was sent by Kamsa to kill Krishna. He entered the cart in body less form. When the cart was turned upside down, he was crushed by the weight of metal jars and wheels of the cart. 

Utkaca, in his previous birth, was born to Hiranyaksha. He was well built and powerful. He did not harm anyone but crushed trees at Sage Lomasa's hermitage. The Sage cursed him to be body-less, and hence, Utkaca had to survive on air. 

On seeking pardon, the Sage said Srihari would descend in Dwaparyug as Srikrishna, and by the touch of His feet, he would be liberated. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

75. Bhagavatha - Putana's End and Protection Rituals to the Lord

75.Srimad Bhagavatam - Putana's End and Protection Rituals to the Lord 

Putana, a demon with a cruel heart, had a tendency to kill babies. Otherwise, she wasn't brave enough. On being instructed by Kamsa, she started searching for newborn babies in every city, village, hamlet in, and around Mathura. 

Camouflage in beautiful dresses, she would get access to newborn babies and would kill them through breastfeed. She wouldn't dare to go near yagna, yaga, and where prayers are conducted to Sriman Narayana.

Demon Putana was moving around in the sky and had a glance at Gokulam. She felt someone was performing a ‘Jatakarma' function, and immediately she landed there. She converted herself into a beautiful woman and entered Nanda's house. 

None stopped her, though she was a stranger. Probably her appearance and beauty befooled everyone. She saw the Lord (baby Krishna) and decided to finish Him. 

The Lord was hiding his prowess, and hence, Putana was not afraid of Him. He recognized Putana even by closing His eyes. He looked innocent. 

Putana took Him on her lap just like a mad person disturbing a python, thinking it as a rope. Breast feeding Him, she planned to inject poison. Yasoda and Rohini and none others suspected her motive. 

The Lord kept His hand on her breast, and in no time, He sucked her life. When it became unbearable, she cried “Stop, Stop”. Her eyes became big, she stretched her legs away and started sweating. In one go, she suffered all the children crying whom she killed.

People around were afraid as she felt dead in demonic form. The Lord was lying safely on her body. With the presence of mind, Yasoda and Rohini ran to take the baby to safety. 

To avoid evil effects on the baby, Yasoda and other Gopicas did “Drshti” rituals. It began with ‘gomutra’ wash to the baby. 

On completion of this ritual, their anxiety came down a bit but were not fully convinced. Gopikas did another ritual called Beejanyasa (while reciting God’s name, touching their body parts and touching the child's similar body part one after the other).

In this way, Yasoda and others sought protection for the child from Sriman Narayana, ‘Who is the protector of all’. 

Nanda and his retinue were returning back to Vraja and were astonished to see the huge body of Putana. They cut the body into small pieces and cremated them. To the surprise of all there came a sweet fragrance. Coming home, they were told the whole incident. Nanda hugged his son and kissed on his forehead (a sort of blessing for long life). 

Putana, in her previous birth, was the daughter of pious King Bali by name Rathnamala. However, her samskara was different from that of her parents. Putana saw Vamana and had a desire that had she been her son, she would have breastfed him. This small desire was fulfilled by Srihari in Dwaparyug and was equally punished for her wrongdoings.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana

74. Bhagavatha - Vasudeva Meets Nanda

74.Srimad Bhagavatam - Vasudeva Meets Nanda

Brindavan, is a part of Gokulam, where Rohini, one of the wives of Vasudeva, lived safely, unknown to Kamsa. Just a few days before Krishna's descent, Rohini gave birth to Sankarshana (Adishesha's descent). 

Gokulam became prosperous and wealthy in Srihari's presence. Nanda, the head of the village, had to visit Mathura to pay annual taxes to the king. Before leaving, he made all arrangements for the protection of his family members and the people.

When Vasudeva was informed about Nanda's visit to Mathura, he went to meet him. Vasudeva was eager to hear the safety and welfare of his sons, Krishna and Sankarshana.

Vasudeva hugged Nanda with love, exchanged warm words, and enquired about people's welfare. He asked, “How is your son (deemed) and my son (Sankarshana)”?

An emotionally disturbed Vasudeva said, “You are fortunate. Though aged (crossed the prime age), you have finally got one. There is no limit to this fortune. 

(Here, the ultimate truth is different. Nanda and Yasoda are guardians and not parents of Krishna).

Vasudeva is grieving for not being fortunate to see his dear divine son. Due to fear of Kamsa, he is prevented from telling this truth to Nanda. 

Vasudeva reveals his inner pain subtly, “We don't get what we desire for various reasons. It is unfortunate to be not with whom we desire, though we like each other.

In the cycle of life, one meeting another is like rebirth (referring to his meeting Nanda after a long period of imprisonment). 

During the rainy season, when water flows, dry leaves, weeds, and sticks come together and move out. They may again join sometime elsewhere. 

What is the use of dharma, artha (wealth) and kama (desires) if people dear to us are unhappy”.

Nanda thought Vasudeva was grieving for his dead sons and said “ Brother, life is based on luck, and happiness depends on luck. The soul has no birth or death. In materialistic life, luck is ultimate”.

Vasudeva enquired Nanda whether tax had been paid and duly informed to the King. 

He subtly warned Nanda about impending danger and asked him to go back to Gokulam without any delay. Accordingly, Nanda and his team went back to Gokulam. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

 

73. Bhagavatha - Celebrations at Nanda's Vraja

73.Srimad Bhagavatam - Celebrations at Nanda's Vraja 

Vasudeva took Krishna to Vraja and placed Him beside Yasoda and, in turn, took her daughter, Yogamaya. Due to the effects of Yogamaya, everyone was put into a deep sleep. 

Yasoda's husband Nanda, unaware of any of these happenings, was overjoyed to hear the birth of a son. 

Nanda, who was fully aware of vedic rituals, immediately called Brahmanas to conduct “Jatakarma”. (It's a ritual that has to be conducted after the umbilical cord is cut and before breast milk is fed to the baby). Soon after the said period restrictions begin (called Purudu). 

The ceremony was done in a hurry. It was followed by tarpana to pitru devatas, devata aradane (worship to Gods) and donations.

Nanda donated 2,00,000 cows to Brahmanas each decorated with gold ornaments. He also donated food articles and clothes in large quantities. News spread quickly about the birth of a son to Nanda and Yasoda.

Gokulam (alias Vraja) was in a festive mood. Each household was cleaned, decorated and displayed art work. Streets were decorated with flowers, colorful clothes and mango leaves.

Cows and calves were cleaned with turmeric paste and were decorated with gold chains. Cowherds too wore colorful dresses and ornaments. 

Women too dressed up well and were eager to see the new born baby and Yasoda. The entire village came to see the baby leaving their jobs. They blessed the child and prayed to Brahma for protection of the child. 

Some sang bhajans, songs and hymns, and few others played instruments. It turned into a sort of Utsav. 

On a question why such a celebration, Sage Sukamuni said Srihari steals the heart of the people. When Srihari Himself has descended, why shouldn't it happen.  

Indeed, there was no regular supply of milk, curd, butter or ghee to neighborhood villages. Milk, curd butter was generously donated. Nanda was very happy and donated cows, clothes to all the guests.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

72. Bhagavatha - Kamsa Apologizes to Devaki and Vasudeva

72.Srimad Bhagavatam - Kamsa Apologizes to Devaki and Vasudeva 

Yogamaya slipped away from Kamsa and warned that the divine child is growing elsewhere and his whereabouts are not known to her. Fear overtook Kamsa, and he immediately freed Devaki and Vasudeva. 

He said, “ I am a sinner. I have killed all your children one after the other by hitting them on the floor. Indeed, I had no option. I behaved as if I had no relations. I will have to go to hell for committing Brahmahatya. I don't deserve to live. 

Actually, the divine voice that echoed on that day is responsible for these acts. I never thought devatas utter lies. I believed those words and committed crimes. I am extremely sorry.   

You both are highly revered souls. Each one of us has to bear the fruit of their action. Your children also had to undergo their sufferings. So, don't feel sad.

All living beings have to die one day or the other or move from one place to another. Nothing is permanent. Do not get worried. The soul has no death. I may have attacked the body but not the soul. Even if you feel I have killed your children, it is because of their karmic deeds.

Because of ignorance, one gets misery or gives misery to others. Forgive me as your child, you good hearted souls”.  

He shed tears and fell on her feet. Realizing they were chained, he instructed the guards to remove them. They were asked to go back to their home. 

Devaki, due to her brotherly affection ends her anger. Vasudeva sarcastically said, “ What you said is true. Ignorance is the root cause of sorrow. Beda drishti (differentiation - that I am different from you) leads to sorrow, happiness, greed, emotions, ego, etc. Hence, one attacks another, and people don't recognize the ill effects of it. They always look external”.

Vasudeva, who knew the secret birth of the Lord, brushed aside his talk and went away.

Kamsa felt happy that Devaki and Vasudeva were not angry at him. Going back to his palace, Kamsa called his ministers and detailed them, particularly on Yogamaya's warning.

Upon pondering, they decided to attack Vedas, Yagnas and Yagas, Brahmanas, Cows - all that provide strength to devastas and Srihari.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

71. Bhagavatha - Yogamaya Warns Kamsa

71.Srimad Bhagavatam - Yogamaya Warns Kamsa

No sooner Kamsa heard the news of the birth of a baby girl, he quickly got up from his bed and rushed towards the prison where Devaki and Vasudeva were confined. 

Kamsa wasn't even concerned about his physical attire required for a king. With unkempt hair and a bare forehead, he almost ran towards the prison.He approached Devaki to hand over the baby. 

Devaki, who was feeling pity and helpless, said, “It's a baby girl. She is your niece and hence don't kill her. You shouldn't kill girls or women. When you killed my six other babies, I thought it's God's play and remained silent. At least leave this girl baby as I don't think I shall have another one anymore”. 

She held the baby tightly to escape from the clutches of Kamsa. Though Devaki was fully aware of divine intervention, she expressed her sorrow by crying loudly.  

Yet, Kamsa was least perturbed and grabbed the baby and, holding its legs, threw it on the floor with full strength. Selfishness overtook him, and hence, he behaved like a demon.

Before being hit, Yogamaya swiftly moved out and appeared as a Goddess with 8 shoulders. Each arm carried different armaments. She wore divine garland and divine clothes. 

She said,” O fool, what will you get by killing me. The one who is destined to kill you is already born. In your last birth (as Demon Kalanemi), too, he killed you. Do not waste time and accumulate sins by killing innocent children.” Saying so, she disappeared. 

As promised by Srihari, Yogamaya is worshipped at various places under various names.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

70. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna is Shifted to Nanda's Vraja

70.Srimad Bhagavatam - Srikrishna is shifted to Nanda's Vraja

Krishna reveals His identity to Vasudeva and Devaki, and thereupon assumes the form of a baby. Vasudeva, wasting no time, placed Him in a bamboo basket covered with soft linen.    

Gate-keepers were deprived of all their cognitive faculties, and the citizens too slept by Yogamaya's power. Prison gates were open by themselves. 

Vasudeva carried Lord Krishna on his head. Clouds rained mildly while Sesa (serpent) followed Him, giving protection. 

Yamuna river afforded passage to divine Krishna. Reaching Nanda's Vraja and finding cowherds buried in sleep, Vasudeva placed his son beside Yasoda and returned to the palace, taking with him Yogamaya, her divine daughter. Yasoda, fully exhausted, was in deep sleep from the effects of Yogamaya.   

Laying the divine baby girl on Devaki’s bed, Vasudeva put on the chains and stood confined as before.

Everything went back to normalcy. Locks were keyed, and guards woke up when they heard the baby's cry. Yogamaya's effect ended by then. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

69. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna Reveals Devaki's Previous Births

69.Srimad Bhagavatam - Devaki Offer Prayers and Krishna Reveals Devaki’s Previous Births   

On seeing her son with characteristic of Lord Mahavishnu, Devaki, who was hitherto afraid of Kamsa, was much delighted and bore a broad smile. 

She said, “ You are Lord Vishnu Himself, unmanifest and devoid of activity. At the end of the lifetime of Brahma, the universe is dissolved by the force of Time. 

The five gross elements alongwith 10 indriyas, the mind (including the deities presiding over them) merge in Ahankara. 

Ahankara is merged with Mahat-tattva, the Mahat-tattva in the Unmanifest (Yourself).

You are left alone and therefore called Sesa (the residue).

Afraid of the serpent of death, the mortal is not able to find a place void of fear. Protect us as we are afraid of terrible Kamsa. 

I pray, do not reveal to the ignorant this divine form. Let not the wicked one know about Your birth through me. Hence, withdraw this four armed form of Yours.

Lord Krishna said to Mother Devaki “In Swayambhu Manvantara, you were known as Prasni, and your husband Sutapa was Prajapati. You were commanded by Brahma to beget progeny.   

You both practiced rigorous austerities fully controlling your senses. Enduring peculiarities of various seasons and subsisting on withered leaves and on air alone and with impurities wiped out from your mind performed my worship with a calm mind. When I asked to seek a boon, you chose a son like Me. Hence, I was born to you as Prasnigarba. 

Once again, in your next birth as Aditi and your husband as Sage Kashyapa, I was born as Upendra (Indra’s younger brother) and also known as Vamana. 

    

In this incarnation, I was born to you and Vasudeva in four-armed form. My word is true. This form has been revealed to you again for reminding you of My previous descents and knowledge of my identity is not revealed to anyone else. 

I shall assume the form of human babe as desired by you. Constantly thinking of Me as a son and also as Brahman, and having bestowed love on Me, you both will attain the highest state of union with Me.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

68. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna's Birth

68.Srimad Bhagavatam - Advent of Lord Krishna   

Sage Sukha Muni said to King Parikshit that atlast good time has arrived. It is a good time for all, including Kamsa, but none were aware of it.

There were celebrations in every village, cities and cowsheds. Rivers were flowing smoothly, and water was pure. Ponds were full of lotuses, and trees were full of flowers. Birds and bees were humming. 

The wind was flowing gently and emitting a pleasant smell. The fire in the yagna was burning well. Sadhus and Sages had no fear of demons. 

However, Devathas were ringing bells in heaven, Kinnaras and Gandarvas were singing songs. Siddhas were reciting hymns. Vidyadhara women and Apsaras were dancing. 

Devatas showered flowers but were converted into mild rain as they didn't want to reveal the secret of Srihari's descent.

Just after midnight, the Moon was set. It was Shravana Bahula Ashtami thithi.    

When the Lord descended, Vasudeva was fortunate to have the first glimpse of wonderful and delightful Srihari. He had seen the delivery of six other babies, but this was quite unique (the seventh foetus was unborn). 

The Lord in the baby's form had eyes similar to lotus leaves. It had 4 shoulders and hands holding up with conch, mace, discus, and arrow in each hand. It had a srivatsa mark on the bosom, a kaustubha jewel on his neck, clad in yellow silk, a waist belt, jewellery on its hand and feet. He had a crown on his head. 

Vasudeva was astonished and felt this baby has features similar to that of Sriman Narayana. He convinced himself by seeing Him again and again. Vasudeva had earned sufficient merit to see Sriman Narayana in person, and hence, he is also called Anaka Dundubi. 

Srihari showed Vasudeva and Devaki His natural form only to make sure of His presence and to fulfill his promise to them in their previous births.   

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

66. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna Enters Devaki’s Womb

66.Srimad Bhagavatam - SriKrishna Enters Devaki's Womb

Kamsa, who had imprisoned Vasudeva and Devaki, killed their six newborn babies. Lord Anantha, a manifestation of Lord Srihari, entered Devaki’s womb as her seventh child. 

Rohini, one of Vasudeva's wives, afraid of Kamsa, was staying in Gokula headed by Nanda. Krishna said to Yogamaya (His creative energy) to transfer the fetus of Anantha growing in Devaki's womb into the womb of Rohini. 

Krishna said, “I shall then enter Devaki’s womb with all My divine potential. You shall be born as a female to Yasoda, wife of Nanda.

People will worship you as the bestower of all desires. Men will erect temples on earth in various forms such as Durga, Bhadrakali, Vijaya, Vaishnavi, Kumuda, Chandika, Krana, Madavi, Kanyaka, Maya, Barayani, Isani, Sharada and Ambika”.

Accordingly, Yogamaya transferred the seven month old fetus of Anantha from Devaki’s womb and placed it in Rohini's womb. Soon after, news spread that the embryo of Devaki had perished. 

The Lord, who gets rid of all fears of his devotees, gave His presence into the mind of Vasudeva with all his divine potency. The glorious Devaki conceived in her mind the Lord duly communicated by Vasudeva through mere sight.

Devaki, who bore the invincible Lord with her, had an uncommon lustre. Kamsa noticed her and said, “Hari, who is going to kill me, has already entered her womb, like a lion entering a cave; for she was not like this before. 

Kamsa thought if I dispose of Devaki herself, before my enemy is born, such destruction, who is not only a woman but has conceived. My reputation and prosperity will cut short my life by such an act. I would certainly go to hell.

Pondering thus, Kamsa ceased from that dark thought. He kept awaiting the birth of Srhari, cherishing a feeling of enmity for Him. All the more, with great fear, he was constantly thinking of Him.

Source : Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

67. Sage Narada Appraises Kamsa

67. Srimad Bhagavatam - Sage Narada Appraises Kamsa

Devaki and Vasudeva were imprisoned, and in the course of time, Devaki gave birth to their first son. As promised, Vasudeva,with a heavy heart, handed over the infant to Kamsa. 

Initially, Kamsa hesitated to kill the infant as he had no fear from the first born baby. Vasudeva, though not sure, quickly carried back the infant to his house.

To facilitate the process of early manifestation of the Lord, Sage Narada appraised Kamsa that cowherds in Vraja, the Vrsnis, and Yadava women are in disguise the manifestation of devatas. 

He said Lord Srihari will manifest as the eighth son of Devaki to destroy daityas, who were becoming a burden to Mother Earth.

It was also made known to Kamsa that he was born as Demon Kalanemi in his previous birth and was stained by Lord Vishnu. 

Soon after Sage Narada left, Kamsa felt Srihari was his enemy and immediately ordered imprisonment of Vasudeva and Devaki. He never hesitated to kill their first born infant. He went on to kill 6 other infants of them. 

He entered into hostility with the Yadus, imprisoned his father, King Ugrasena, and ruled over Surasena territory.

  

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

65(1). Bhagavatha - Vasudeva Pleads Kamsa

65(1).Srimad Bhagavata - Vasudeva Pleads Kamsa and Makes Toughest Promise

Kamsa, the cousin of newly wedded Devaki, was curious to get rid of her as the ethereal voice indicated that her eighth child would kill him. He thought if the source is destroyed, future risk can be avoided.

Vasudeva said,” You are born in glorious Bhojas lineage. How can you slay your own cousin, a woman, who is just married?

Aren't you aware death is destined for those who are born. It is inevitable whether it comes this day or at the end of a hundred years. 

When the body is about to expire, the soul following the course of its destiny quits the former body on mentally obtaining another corporeal form.

Just as Caterpillar leaves a blade of grass only when it has caught hold of another, so does the embodied soul following the course of its destiny leave the former body when it has caught hold of another.

Why, then, should the soul burden itself with wrong doings. Your cousin is a helpless girl and is like a daughter to you. You ought not kill this girl who has just gone through the auspicious nuptial rites. 

To save his newly wedded wife, Vasudeva made the toughest promise of handing over his and Devaki sons to Kamsa. 

Kamsa, who knew the integrity of Vasudeva, agreed to his proposal and allowed them to reach their home. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

65(2) Bhagavata - Why Srikrishna was born in Yadu Dynasty?

65(2) - Srimad Bhagavata - Why Srikrishna was born in Yadu Dynasty?

King Parikshit was eager to know more about Srikrishna, the one who saved his life when he was in his mother's womb, and who guided his grandfather and grand uncles.

He requested Suka Muni to detail Srikrishna’s life on why he was born in the Yadu dynasty, who is the mother of Balarama - Devaki or Rohini, and why he killed kamsa, his own maternal uncle?   

Suka Muni was pleased and said, “Oppressed with adharma, Mother Earth in cow form with wet tears sought Lord Brahma intervention. Daityas, disguised as humans, became rulers and nurtured adharma.

Brahma, along with Mother Earth, Lord Shiva, and devatas proceeded to Vaikunta, the adore of Lord Srihari to seek his intervention. Brahma recited his prayer (Purusha Sukta) and awaited the Lord's response.

A divine voice was heard to Brahma, giving directions for the future course of action. Thereafter, Brahma told devatas to immediately be born as Yadus or send their form to the earth and await Srihari's appearance. The Lord will walk on earth and will do the needful to reduce the burden of Mother Earth. 

Lord Adishesha, a part manifestation of Lord Srihari, will precede Him as His elder brother. The divine Maya (potency) of Lord Srihari will also be born to assist Him”. Having instructed, Brahma returned to His abode.

Vasudeva Weds Devaki 

Mathura is the capital city of the Yadava kings, and Surasena, chief of Yadavas, was residing in that city. Vasudeva, son of Surasena, married Devaki and was on the way home on a chariot.  

Prince Kamsa, son of King Ugrasena and cousin of Devaki, offered to become a charioteer. The procession started in a grand manner with conch, clay TomTom, and kettledrum sounds.

Just then, an ethereal voice from the sky was heard warning Kamsa that the eighth child of Devaki would slay him. Kamsa grew ferocious, seized his cousin Devaki by hair, and with sword in hand proceeded to kill her.

The highly blessed Vasudeva pleaded hard to convince kamsa to desist from such action.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

Pradosha Nartanam at Darukavan

 Pradosha Nartanam at Darukavan

Darukavan, near Dwarka, was once a dense forest where powerful sages constantly performed yagnas. Over time, they became proud of their spiritual powers and believed rituals alone could fulfill all desires, without the need to worship God. Their wives too possessed great merit, and together their pride turned into arrogance.

To remove this ego, Shiva sought the help of Mahavishnu. Shiva appeared as a charming naked mendicant, while Mahavishnu took the enchanting form of Mohini.

Mohini distracted the sages with her beauty and melodious songs, drawing them away from their yagnas. At the same time, Shiva captivated the sages’ wives, who followed Him spellbound. When both groups met, they were shocked and furious.

Realizing they had been outwitted, the sages performed a powerful yagna to destroy the intruders. From the sacrificial fire emerged fierce beings and weapons — a lion, snakes, demons, deer, trident, drum, and the dwarf demon Apasmara. Shiva effortlessly subdued them all.

He wore the lion’s skin as clothing, used the trident as His weapon, held the deer firmly, and adorned Himself with snakes as ornaments. He defeated Apasmara, the demon of ignorance and forgetfulness, by pressing him beneath His foot. Then Shiva performed His divine Pradosha dance — the first cosmic dance performance.

The humbled sages prayed for forgiveness. Later, Shiva appeared there as a Jyotirlinga with serpent hoods, now worshipped as Nageshwar Jyotirlinga.

Source: 12 Jyothirling

20. Bhagavatha - Ajamilana - Lord Yama's Reply

20.Srimad Bhagavatam - Dialogue Between Messengers of Lord Yama and his Messengers  

Messengers of Yama return back with a failed mission of not getting Ajamilana's life as messengers of Maha Vishnu releases Ajamilana from Yama's noose.

On returning back, messengers of Yama ask the following questions to Lord Yama:

1. Humans perform three kinds of action viz., virtuous, sinful, and a mix of both these. Who else other than you is responsible for the dispensation of the fruits of action of human beings?

2. If there is more than one ruler, there may arise inequality with regard to punishment and forgiveness. Does it not lead to injustice?

3. Your authority has been superseded by someone else? Who could be such a person? If we are deemed to get an appropriate reason, please tell us why a sinner like Ajamilana was left free.

Lord Yama's said:   

1. There is a supreme Lord by whom the entire universe stands pervaded. He is the Lord of all animate and inanimate things. Through his manifestation creation, maintenance and destruction take place.

2. He controls all our actions just as a bullock is controlled by a human using a nose string.

3. He apportions men into divergent class and assigns appropriate duties and obligations as is enjoined in Veda.

4. Myself, Indra, Nirrti, Varuna, Moon, Sun, Fire god, Brahma, Lord Shiva, the eight Vasus, Gandarvas, Rudras, Siddhas, Sages are all bound by Him.

5. Even Seers and Gods can perceive the virtues of Lord Narayana. What can you expect from humans and rest all?

6. Only 12 of us - Brahma, Sage Narada, Lord Shiva, Sage Sanakas, Lord Kapila, Swayambu Manu, Prahlada, King Janaka, Bhishma, Raja Bali, Sage Suka and I have understandings about Dharma. It's pure, secret, and very difficult to even comprehend.

7. To develop loving attachment to the Lord through the utterance of His name alone is declared as the paramount duty of men.

8. The mind can't be purified through fasting or through devotion.

9. He who enjoys the sweetness of Srihari's feet delights no more in the delusional offerings of Maya.

10. A sin committed inadverence is also extinguished through the utterance of the name of the Lord. The sinful Ajamilana did attain liberation by recalling his son's name 'Narayana' at the time of demise when he wasn't in control of his faculties.

Attendants of Yama were surprised to hear and realize the glory of the Lord. Thenceforth, they didn't meddle with devotees of Lord Narayana. 

Sukamuni said to King Parikshit that this secret legend was narrated to him by pious sage Agastya at Mount Malaya.

Ajamilana, upon realizing his blunders, proceeded to Haridwar and engaged in penance. When his time in this mortal world elapsed, the attendants of Maha Vishnu led him to Vishnuloka.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana

19. Bhagavatha - Ajamilana - Discourse on Dharma

19.Srimad Bhagavatam - Ajamilana (2)

Messengers of Yama answer queries on Dharma to Messengers of MahaVishnu.

1. What is Dharma?

Dharma (righteousness) is that which is enjoined by the Veda. That which is forbidden by the Veda is Adharma.

Veda is emanated from Bhagavan Narayana Himself (it flows from nostrils by the way of respiration).

2. What are means of ascertaining Dharma?

The sun, the fire, the sky, the air, Indriyas (sense of perception and sense of action), the moon, the morning and evening twilights, day and night, the four quarters, water, the earth, Time and Dharma are witnesses (evidences)of good and evil actions of a Jiva (embodied soul).

3. How is the punishment meted out? Is there any distinction while meting out the punishment?

Unrighteousness, ascertained by the above evidence, determines appropriate punishment. There is no distinction while considering punishment for sinful action.

4. How good and bad deeds are associated with action?

Good or evil deeds are associated with action either with one's mind, body, or speech. Action is associated with 3 gunas (modes of prakriti) - sattva, rajas, and tamas.

Virtuous or sinful action done in this world is rewarded or punished in the same manner and to the same extent in the other world.

5. Is there heterogeneity in one's life, and what is it?

Yes, there is heterogeneity in one's life. For example:

1. Those living a life of ease, those leading a miserable life and those who are partly happy and partly miserable.

2. Those who are tanquil by nature, those who are ferocious and those who are dull.

3. Those who are pious by temperament, those who are vicious by nature and those who are of mixed temperament.

These three types of people severally performed meritorious, sinful, or mixed deeds in the past. It is inferred that they will reap the three corresponding types of fruit in another life.

6. What is meant by subtle elements and how it is associated with Jiva, the soul?

When a soul leaves the body, it carries with 16 subtle elements viz., the 10 indriyas, the mind, and 5 objects of senses. These subtle elements are a product of 3 gunas. These are exceedingly attached. This leads Jiva again and again to transmigration (rebirth cycle).

Messengers of Yama question their Lord Yama on who is supreme, you or anyone else. Lord Yama explains the power of Lord Narayana 's name. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana

18. Bhagavatha - Story of Ajamilana

18.Srimad Bhagavatham - Ajamilana Upakanya (1)

In the city of Kanyakubja (kannauj) lived a brahmana by name Ajamilana. Though married, he associated with Sudra woman and had cast to the winds the pious conduct enjoined on a Brahmana householder.

He made his living on robbery, gambling, cheating, and theft. As years rolled out, he maintained his existence for almost 88 years. He had 10 children, and was fond of his youngest son, Narayana, an infant. 

When the end was nearing, Yama's three messengers came to take his life. Ajamilana was not prepared but understood that his end had come and was struggling with associated trouble. He couldn't bear the separation of his infant son and loudly called ‘Narayana ‘in full length. However he had no intention to remember Bhagavan Narayana but uttered his name only to call his son.

This loud call of Narayana alerted messengers of Maha Vishnu, and they immediately appeared before Ajamilana. Messengers of Yama were in the process of pulling the life (prana vayu) but were stopped by messengers of Maha vishnu. These messengers question Yama's messengers on various topics related to dharma.

The messengers of Mahavishnu say, 'Ajamilana uttered, though unintentionally, ‘Narayana’ when he was about to die. This single act has wiped out all his not only of this life but even sins committed by him through millions of lives.

When a person articulates the Lord's name when he is about to die, all his sins will be wiped, and the chances of doing evil deeds do not arise.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana

17. Bhagavatha - Story of King Puranjana- Journey of the Soul

 17.Srimad Bhagavatam - Puranjana Upaakanya 

Who is Puranjana? Why did Sage Narada narrate the journey of the Soul to Prachinabarhi? 

Puranjana is an illusionary person created by Sage Narada to explain Prachinabarhi, the journey of the soul in a birth. This story is part of bhagavatha detailed in length in Chapter 4.

Prachinabarhi is descent of Dhruva, son of Uttanapada and grandson of Prajapathi Manu.

Prachinabarhi kept on performing yajna and converted entire earth into yagnashala. He was unaware of the pros and cons of it. Sage Narad decided to educate him and, in the process, narrates a story and later the concept of it.

The story, in gist, goes this way:

Puranjana, a king along with his friend, goes around the globe in search of a suitable place to establish his kingdom and finds a place near the Himalayas.

A beautiful and clever lady welcomes him just outside the kingdom and assures him all necessary support along with her contingent. King is impressed and proposes to marry her, for which she readily agrees. He forgets his dear friend altogether.

Puranjana meanwhile establishes his kingdom with the help of his wife, her 5 male companions, 5 female companions, a mighty warrior, and 5 hooded serpent. The kingdom has 9 gates and can give protection for 100 years. Family grows, so also responsibilities. Puranjana enjoyed every moment of it.

One day, he goes to hunting without informing anyone, including his wife. He kills innumerable animals and birds and returns home exhausted and without any remose. His wife is unhappy but never spoke a word. Puranjana realises his mistake and apologizes to his wife.

As years went, the kingdom got ignored. Utilizing this opportunity, Gandharvas enters through the gates and attacks him successfully. Finally, the kingdom is defeated.

What is the concept of Narada's story?

It is the journey of the soul in a birth. The soul goes around to find a suitable body to live in, expecting a period of 100 years.

'Body' is his wife who welcomes him and provides all sorts of sensuous comforts. Male companions are 5 internal sense of perception and 5 sense organs of action are female companions.

Nine gates are holes in the body (2 eyes, 2 nose, 2 ears, 1 mouth ,penis, and anus). Vital air is 5 hooded serpent, and a mighty warrior is the mind.

Puranjana hunting venture is acts done without thinking. As age grows, the body becomes weak and is attacked by diseases, fear of old age, and death (gates are not protected well).

Puranjana forgets his friend, Paramatma, the God. Both jeevathma and paramatma have to be together so that jeevathma doesn't get attached to the body. This realization 'I am not the body' is vital.

Narada, through this illusionary tale, illustrates that the soul is independent of the body and one can realize God through penance. He also tells yajnas and yagas yield few results, and too much of it is not good for humanity.

Prachinabarhi agrees to act upon but is not willing to do it immediately. He wanted to wait till his 10 sons (collectively called Pracetas, because they had similar looks, had similar views and did things together) return from tapas. 

Narad again narrates an anecdote.

A deer lives in a forest, establishes its own territory, and lives with its family happily. It isn't aware that a wolf on one side is hiding to capture it, and on the other, a lion is watching to kill it.

Deer is unaware of this danger. Wolf represents old age and disease, and lion the death. Lion is waiting for the designated time.

Prachinabarhi understood that his time had almost arrived. He relinquished his kingdom and went to the forest for penance and reached his goal.

Take away: Truth is we represent deer. Ignorant. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana

13. Bhagavatha - Rishabhadeva’s Teachings

13.Srimad Bhagavatam - Rishabhadeva’s Teachings 

How does Rishabhadeva describe the relationship between devotion and bondage? How should we be vigilant towards bondage, the storage of karma? What is the second knot?

Rishabhadeva, the incarnation of Mahavishnu, was born to King Nabhi and Merudevi. He had a hundred mind-born sons. The eldest among them was Bharata.

 

Rishabhadeva’s children were well-disciplined and were greatly devoted to their father. Before retiring to the forest, he convened a gathering and advised his children as follows:

The mortal body does not deserve to be given up to only sensuous pleasures, unlike swine, dogs, or animals.

Adherence to austerities purifies the mind and, in turn, leads to Moksha. Service rendered to an exalted soul leads to liberation. 

They alone are great who are even-minded, exceptionally calm, free from anger, kindly hearted, treat devotion to God as the purpose of life, and take no delight in worldly things.

So long as there is no devotion towards God, the soul does not get rid of its identification with the body. The real nature of the soul remains hidden due to ignorance. 

So long as actions continue, the mind is tied to activity, and the soul is tied to the body. 

The union of husband and wife of a man and woman is another knot binding their hearts together (apart from the subtle knot in the form of identification of the soul with the body). 

It is due to the second knot a man erroneously regards house, family, and relationships as his own. When this hard knot gets loosened, he frees himself from all bondage and merges with God. 

By depending on God, adoring him, hearing his stories every day, singing his praise, and through even-mindedness and tranquillity, one sheds the veil of ego. 

A person should be ever vigilant of bondage in the shape of a knot that constitutes a storehouse of karma for many births. 

Rishabhadeva thenceforth installed Bharata as King and adapted a life of a recluse, traversed all across as recluse unattached to worldly things and His own mortal body.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

12. Bhagavatha - Lord Narayana descent as Rishabha Deva

12.Srimad Bhagavatam - Lord Narayana's descent as Rishabha Deva   

Rishabha Deva (one of the 21 avatars of Lord Narayana) was born to King Nabhi and Merudevi. King Nabhi is the son of Agnidhra, grandson of Priyavrata and great-grandson of Prajapati Swayambhu Manu.

Desirous of obtaining a son, King Nabhi performed a sacrifice with full devotion. Pleased with his devotion, Srihari appeared in His beautiful form with crown, ornaments, conch, lotus, lotus, and discus.  

The priests performing the Yagna offered prayers to the Lord and requested him to grant progeny to their king who would be equivalent to Him. The Lord said “Since none can be equivalent to Him, I shall descend and be born as his son.   

At the designated time, a baby boy was born to Merudevi with marks of divinity (figure of a thunderbolt, goad in the soles). Seeing His glory and strength, King Nabhi named him Rishabha, the foremost. He was also known as Aja.

The Brahmanas, Gods and people were eager to see Him rule over the world. King Nabhi, at the appropriate time, installed Rishabha Deva as the king and left for the woods. 

Once Indra envied Him and did not rain in his land. Rishabha deva, on knowing it, laughed heartily which led to downpour throughout his land. Hence this land was known as Ajanabha.  

Rishabha Deva married Jayanthi, the daughter of Indra, and had a hundred sons, the eldest being Bharata. 

Rishabha Deva was eternally free from all evils through performing actions like an ordinary mortal. He taught by His own example the duties that have been forgotten over time. For, as a rule, the world blindly follows whatever is done by the leader. 

When Rishabha deva ruled nobody ever sought for one’s own use on any account whatsoever from another. They had a profound love for their ruler. None envied another's property.

His sons were self-controlled, thoroughly disciplined by virtue and devoted to their divine father. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

11. Bhagavatha - How did Kucha attain self-realization?

 11.Srimad Bhagavatam --How did Kucha attain self-realization?

Kucha, unlike others, had 3 bodies in one life.

Kucha realises that he is not the body and asks his father, Brihaspati, "If I am not the body, who am I?

Brihaspati tells him to give up everything to know the truth. "Sarvam Tyejya."

Kucha went to the forest for penance and gave up everything (to his knowledge), and this went on for 3 years. He gave up his lone loincloth as well. Still, he wasn't satisfied with what he had achieved. 

Kucha comes back to Brihaspati and expresses his inability. Brihaspati was unmoved by his son's condition. He thought Kucha needed more guidance and asked him to work on "Sarvameva Tyejya."

Kucha went to the forest again and worked on it. This time, he sat down in one place, giving up even basic needs, and this went on for 5 years. Brihaspati was eager to see his son's progress. Kucha said there is not much progress in his endeavor. 

This time, Brihaspati said, "Give up dharma, adharma, truth and untruth and find out from where this 'giving up’ has begun. Give up that thing also. Kuch couldn't understand, and he needed more clarification.

Brihaspati said, "Find out what is the source of the feeling of life, family, joy, happiness, sorrow, etc. It's the mind. The mind carries our samskara. Give up the connection with the mind itself.

Kucha worked on it and atlast attained self-realization.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

10. Bhagavatha - Story of Kucha, Brihaspati's Son

10.Srimad Bhagavatam - Story of Kucha

Who is Kucha? Why did Kucha learn Mrityu Sanjeevini Vidya from Shukracharya? How Kucha was brought back to life multiple times? Why did Devayani curse Kucha?

Kucha is the son of Devaguru Brahaspati During a war between Devas and Asuras, Devas were perishing, but Asuras' count remained the same. Upon reasoning, it was understood that Asura's guru, Shukracharya, was bringing back all dead asuras to life using Mrityu Sanjeevini Mantra.

Devas decided that someone amongst them must learn this mantra to counter their defeat. None dared to approach Shukracharya except Brahaspati's son Kucha.

Kucha requested Shukracharya to accept him as his student. Shukracharya knew the purpose of Kucha's visit, yet he obliged because he never denied knowledge to eligible students. Kucha was asked to serve him for 1000 years. 

Kucha agreed and was obedient to his guru. Devayani, Shukracharya's daughter, was impressed with Kucha and desired to marry him.

Asuras suspected Kucha, and when Shukracharya was away, they killed him. Devayani requested her father to bring back his life using the Mrythu Sanjeevini Mantra.

Shukracharya fulfilled his daughter's wish and brought back Kucha’s life.

Asuras again killed Kucha and burnt his body as well. Again, on Devani's request, Shukracharya brought back Kucha's life, not in his original body but similar to it.

The third time, Asuras killed Kucha, burnt his body, mixed the ashes in Sura (local alcohol), and made Shukracharya drink it. This time, Shukracharya expressed his inability to bring back Kucha's life as he was inside his body. To bring back Kucha's life, he would be killed.

Devayani asks her father to teach Mrythu Sanjeevini Mantra to Kucha. Once Kucha gets back his life, he will definitely bring back his guru's life using the same Vidya. As planned, things went on, and both got back their lives.

Kucha desired to return back to Devlok as his purpose was accomplished. Devayani wanted Kucha to marry her, but he politely refused.

Devayani cursed Kucha that this knowledge would be useless when needed. Kucha, too, cursed that no brahmana would marry her.

On returning back, Kucha taught this knowledge to others, and as such, his mission was completed.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

64.Bhagavatha - Mother Earth Seeks Refuge

 64.Srimad Bhagavata - Mother Earth Seeks Refuge and Vasudeva Weds Devaki

King Parikshit was eager to know more about Srikrishna, the one who saved his life when he was in his mother's womb, and who guided his grandfather and grand uncles.

He requested Suka Muni to detail Srikrishna’s life on why he was born in the Yadu dynasty, who is the mother of Balarama - Devaki or Rohini, and why he killed kamsa, his own maternal uncle?   

Suka Muni was pleased and said, “Oppressed with adharma, Mother Earth in cow form with wet tears sought Lord Brahma intervention. Daityas, disguised as humans, became rulers and nurtured adharma.

Brahma, along with Mother Earth, Lord Shiva, and devatas proceeded to Vaikunta, the adore of Lord Srihari to seek his intervention. Brahma recited his prayer (Purusha Sukta) and awaited the Lord's response.

A divine voice was heard to Brahma, giving directions for the future course of action. Thereafter, Brahma told devatas to immediately be born as Yadus or send their form to the earth and await Srihari's appearance. The Lord will walk on earth and will do the needful to reduce the burden of Mother Earth. 

Lord Adishesha, a part manifestation of Lord Srihari, will precede Him as His elder brother. The divine Maya (potency) of Lord Srihari will also be born to assist Him”. Having instructed, Brahma returned to His abode.

Vasudeva Weds Devaki 

Mathura is the capital city of the Yadava kings, and Surasena, chief of Yadavas, was residing in that city. Vasudeva, son of Surasena, married Devaki and was on the way home on a chariot.  

Prince Kamsa, son of King Ugrasena and cousin of Devaki, offered to become a charioteer. The procession started in a grand manner with conch, clay TomTom, and kettledrum sounds.

Just then, an ethereal voice from the sky was heard warning Kamsa that the eighth child of Devaki would slay him. Kamsa grew ferocious, seized his cousin Devaki by hair, and with sword in hand proceeded to kill her.

The highly blessed Vasudeva pleaded hard to convince kamsa to desist from such action.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

102. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna as Govardhana Giridhari

102.Srimad Bhagavatam - Srikrishna as Govardhana Giridhari

Furious that the people of Vraja had stopped His worship, Indra decided to punish them. He ordered the fierce Samvartaka clouds, used during cosmic destruction, along with the powerful Maruts, to flood Vraja with torrential rains.

The frightened cowherds ran to Krishna and prayed, “We have no one other than You to protect us.” Even the cows silently sought His shelter.

To save everyone, Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill effortlessly with one hand and held it like an umbrella. He asked the residents to bring their families, cattle, and carts beneath the hill. Protected under Govardhan, the people gazed constantly at Krishna. 

For seven days and nights, none felt hunger or thirst, and Krishna never changed hands.

Seeing this astonishing miracle, Indra realized Krishna’s divine power. Fear and humility arose within him, and he ordered the clouds and Maruts to stop the storm and return.

When the rains ended, Krishna gently placed Govardhan Hill back in its place. The people of Vraja were overwhelmed with joy and devotion toward their protector.

Later, the elders asked Nanda, “Who is this extraordinary child performing such miracles? Is He a devata?”

Nanda recalled the words of Garga Muni during the secret naming ceremony of Krishna and Balarama. The sage had said that the child had appeared in many ages with different names and was now called Krishna because of His dark complexion. He also foretold that Krishna would always protect the people of Vraja.

Nanda finally said, “I consider Him an incarnation of Sriman Narayana.” Hearing this, the elders joyfully praised Krishna and Nanda’s great fortune.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

101. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna Blocks Indra's Yagna

 101.Srimad Bhagavatam – Srikrishna Blocks Indra’s Yagna

The people of Vraja were joyfully preparing for the traditional Indra Yagna, a ritual performed for generations to please Indra, the god of rain. Seeing this, Krishna politely asked His father Nanda and the elders why the ritual was being performed and requested that nothing be kept secret from Him.

Nanda explained that Indra, also called Parjanya, sends rain through the clouds. Rain sustains crops, animals, and human life, and protects people from famine. Therefore, they worshipped Indra with gratitude.

Srikrishna, however, wished to humble the pride of arrogant Indra and reveal a deeper truth. He explained the law of karma:

“By karma a being is born, by karma it dies, and by karma it experiences joy, sorrow, fear, and safety.”

He taught that every living being experiences the results of its own actions. Karma alone acts as friend, enemy, or teacher. The Supreme Lord merely awards the fruits of one’s actions.

Krishna further explained that the three gunas — sattva, rajas, and tamas — govern creation, maintenance, and destruction. Clouds shower rain due to the force of nature, not because of Indra’s independent power.

Therefore, He advised the villagers to faithfully perform their own duties according to varna and ashrama dharma and worship cows, brahmanas, and Govardhan Hill instead.

Accepting Krishna’s words, the people prepared delicious offerings for Govardhan Hill, worshipped cows and brahmanas, and joyfully circumambulated the sacred hill.

Source: Bhagavata Purana

karmana Jayate Janthu, 

Karmanaiva Veliyathe.

Sukham, Dukham, Bayam, kshemam

 karmanai abibadyathe

7. Bhagavatha - Birth of King Parikshit

7.Srimad Bhagavatam – Birth of King Parikshit

During a great Satra Yaga, Sage Saunaka asked Suta Muni how baby Parikshit was saved in his mother Uttara’s womb.

After the Kurukshetra War, Ashwatthama wanted revenge on the Pandavas. He released the powerful Brahmashira Astra to destroy their lineage. Since Abhimanyu had died, the weapon attacked the unborn child in Uttara’s womb.

The foetus suffered intense burning and was close to destruction. Suddenly, a tiny divine form appeared inside the womb. It had four hands holding a conch, discus, mace, and lotus, and wore shining pink clothes. Moving around the baby with its mace, it protected the child from the astra. The foetus realized it was none other than Mahavishnu.

When the child was born, the divine form disappeared. Because the baby had carefully observed the Lord, he was named Parikshit, “the examiner.” Thus, with Sri Krishna’s grace, the Pandava lineage continued.

9. Bhagavatha - How could Parikshit tame Kali Purusha?

9.Srimad Bhagavatam – How could Parikshit tame Kali Purusha?

After many years of righteous rule, Emperor Yudhishthira began noticing frightening signs in his kingdom. People were becoming dishonest and selfish, while birds and animals showed signs of coming disaster. He feared that Kali Purusha had entered the world.

At that time, Arjuna had gone to Dwarka. After seven months, he returned sadly and informed them about the departure of Sri Krishna and the destruction among the Yadavas. Realizing that Kali Yuga had begun, Yudhishthira crowned his grandson King Parikshit as king.

Yudhishthira gave up his royal life, wore simple clothes, observed silence, and walked towards the Himalayas with his brothers and Draupadi.

King Parikshit later searched for Kali to stop his influence. During a Digvijaya journey, he saw a man dressed like a king beating a cow and immediately recognized him as Kali. Parikshit captured him but spared his life when Kali begged for mercy. He warned Kali not to trouble righteous people and allowed him to stay only in places where adharma, greed, dishonesty, and cruelty existed.

63. Bhagavatha - Story of Rantideva

63.Srimad Bhagavatam – Story of Rantideva

Rantideva, a descendant of Bharadwaja and the adopted son of Emperor Bharata, was born a king but lived a simple and detached life. Though wealthy, he never desired to save or increase his riches and happily gave away everything, even during times of great hunger.

Once, he and his family remained without food and water for 48 days. On the 49th day, they finally received a little payasam and water. As they were about to eat, a Brahmana guest arrived. Seeing him as a form of Srihari, Rantideva gladly offered him food.

Soon another stranger came, and Rantideva shared more food without discrimination. Then a Sudra arrived with dogs asking for food. Believing that hunger is the same for humans and animals, Rantideva gave away the remaining payasam.

Only a little water was left. At that moment, a thirsty Chandala appeared asking for water. Filled with compassion, Rantideva said he did not desire wealth or even moksha, but wished to remove the suffering of others. He then gave away the last portion of water.

Immediately, Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara revealed themselves, for they had come to test him. Rantideva sought no boon. Freed from maya, he attained union with Srihari, and his family too followed the path of devotion.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

58. Bhagavatha - A Brief Note of Lunar Dynasty

58.Srimad Bhagavatham - A Brief Note of Lunar Dynasty 

What was the tussle between Sage Brihaspati and Soma, the Moon God? Who is Budha and Pururava?

Sage Atri, the mind-born son of Lord Brahma, was a replica of his father in excellence. Soma, the Moon God, is the son of Sage Arti. It is said Soma was born out of Atri's tears of joy. Soma is an embodiment of nectar.

Brahma appointed Soma as Lord of the Brahmanas, herbs, annual plants, and stars.  

Soma completely subdued all the worlds and performed Rajasuya Yagna.  

During the sacrifice, Soma abducted Tara, wife of Devguru Brihaspathi. Though Brihaspati approached Soma on this issue, it was not successful. This led to a war between devatas and asuras. 

Sage Shukracharya, being jealous towards Brihaspati, took sides with Soma. Lord Shiva, along with his ganas, supported the just cause of Brihaspati. Lord Indra also supported devaguru Brihaspati. 

Sage Angira, father of Brihaspati, approached Lord Brahma and appraised the situation. Lord Brahma abused Soma of his behaviour and instructed Soma to return Tara to Brihaspati. By then, Tara was impregnated. Brihaspati instructed Tara to cast away the foetus immediately. Tara gave birth to a male child.

Both Devguru and Soma were longing for a child and were claiming rights over the child. When questioned, Tara remained silent. 

Surprisingly, the child got angry, and he too asked his mother to speak out. Finally, Brahma soothed her and gently interrogated, and Tara revealed that this child belonged to Soma. 

Brahma named Soma’s son Budha. Budha married Ila (King Sudyumna in a feminine form), and through their union, a son Pururava was born.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

57. Bhagavatha - Twists and Turns in Sudyumna’s Life

57.Srimad Bhagavatham - Twists and Turns in Sudyumna’s Life 

Sudyumna is the son of Vaivaswata Manu (Shradhadeva) and Shradha and the grandson of Vivasvan (Sun God). He was born as Ila, a female, but later became Sudyumna, a male by Srihari's grace. 

Once King Sudyumna, along with a few others, went on a hunt to a forest in the northern direction. On entering the foot of Mount Meru, they found a change in their gender. They weren't aware that this place bears the curse of Lord Shiva. 

Feeling embarrassed, the King and his troop opted to remain in the forest. The king, now a woman, roamed around the forest and met God Budha, son of Moon God. Seeing her beauty, Budha proposed to marry her, and they both agreed. Through this marriage, they had a son, Pururuva. 

King Sudyumna, who desired to return to his kingdom, sought Sage Vasishta's help. The Sage took pity on him and prayed to Lord Shiva to restore manhood to Sudyumna.  

Lord Shiva offered partial relief wherein Sudhama will be a male for a month and female in the subsequent month.

King Sudyumna, during his manhood, ruled his kingdom and would go incognito as he never desired to show himself as a woman. 

During his stay in the kingdom, he had three sons. Vexed with his life, he desired to retire to the forest. He handed over the central part of the kingdom to Pururava and the rest to his other three sons.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana    

56. Bhagavatha - Progeny of Vaivaswatha Manu

56.Srimad Bhagavatam - Progeny of Vaivaswatha Manu

Why was Vaivaswata Manu disappointed with the outcome of the sacrifice? Why did Manu take up asceticism for a hundred years?

Vaivasvatha Manu (alias Shradhadeva) is the son of Vivasvan (Sun God) and the grandson of Sage Kasyapa and Aditi.

Manu was issueless and desired to perform a sacrifice propitiating Mitra and Varuna gods with Sage Vasistha as advaryu (chief priest).

Sraddha, wife of Manu, requested the Hota (who recites required mantras) to conduct the sacrifice in such a way she beget a female child. The Hota accordingly made deviations duly oblations. 

Invariably, a girl child, Ila, was born to them. Manu was displeased as he had desired male progeny. He enquired the Sage the cause of this deviation.

The Sage, through his divine vision, could find the cause and took the responsibility to provide a remedy. He prayed to Lord Srihari for his intervention and facilitated Manu with male progeny. With Srihari’s blessings, Ila became Sudyumna. 

At a later date, Manu handed over the kingdom to Sudyumna. King Sudyumna’s life had many twists and turns. He had a son, Pururuva, through Budha (Son of Moon God).

Vaivaswata Manu was saddened with his son's life. For progeny, he practiced asceticism for a hundred years and had 10 sons, the eldest being Ikswaku. 

Except two, the other 8 sons were progenitors. All the rulers of Surya vamsha (dynasty) were pious, firm believers of dharma.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

6. Bhagavatha - Story of Bhakthi

6. Srimad Bhagavatha –  Story of Bhakti

Once, the sage Narada visited Prithvi and its sacred pilgrimage sites. To his dismay, he found that true devotion had faded—even in holy places such as Prayag, Ganga, Godavari, Srirangam, and Rameshwaram.

He perceived the strong influence of Kali Yuga, the age that fosters unrighteousness. Truth, austerity, purity of body and mind, and compassion had all but disappeared.

People seemed driven only by material needs, concerned merely with sustaining themselves. Spiritual discipline had been consumed by the raging fire of this age. Temples, too, were increasingly treated like places of commerce—there was grandeur, but little genuine devotion.

At last, Narada arrived at Mathura, the sacred birthplace of Krishna.

The Meeting of Bhakti and Her Sons

In Mathura, Narada beheld a sorrowful woman—Bhakti—weeping beside her two aged sons, Jnana and Vairagya, who lay in deep slumber.

Bhakti implored Narada to awaken them. Understanding her plight through his divine insight, Narada made every effort—reciting the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita—but his attempts failed. The sons remained unmoved.

Deeply distressed, Narada then heard a celestial voice:

“Holy sages will guide you toward the righteous path.”

Following this guidance, he journeyed to Badarikashrama, where he met the four sages—Sanaka and his brothers.

Narada sought their help in restoring Bhakti and her sons. 

The sages replied:

“You have always guided devotees of Krishna and tirelessly upheld devotion. It is fitting that you now re-establish Bhakti on a firm foundation. 

Though many spiritual practices grant heavenly rewards, the path leading to liberation (Vaikuntha) remains hidden and is discovered only by great fortune.”

They further explained that Jnana Yajna—the devoted study and recitation of the Srimad Bhagavatam—is the supreme path to liberation. Through its sacred narration, the suffering of Jnana and Vairagya would end, and Bhakti would regain her joy.

Sanaka added:

“The Srimad Bhagavatam is the very essence of the Vedas and Upanishads. Just as ghee must be extracted from milk, and a fruit plucked from a tree to be enjoyed fully, so too must this divine wisdom be drawn out and experienced.”

The sages advised conducting this sacred recitation at Ananda. Hearing this holy discourse, Bhakti and her sons gradually regained their strength and vitality.

Soon, great sages such as Bhrigu, Vasistha, Gautama, Parashurama, Viswamitra, and Markandeya assembled to partake in this nectar-like narration.

The Glory of the Bhagavatam

When Krishna prepared to depart from the earthly realm, his devoted follower Uddhava prayed:

“O Lord, as You leave, my heart is filled with anxiety. The dark age of Kali approaches, bringing unrighteousness. Please protect the virtuous.”

Moved by this plea at Prabhasa, Vishnu (Srihari) infused all His divine presence and glory into the Srimad Bhagavatam.

Thus, the Bhagavatam became the living, verbal manifestation of the Lord Himself.

Through its power, Bhakti and her sons, Jnana and Vairagya, were restored to their true, radiant forms. 

Filled with gratitude, Bhakti thanked the sages for nourishing them with this divine, nectar-like wisdom.

55. Bhagavatha - Matsysavathara - Lord Descends as Divine Fish

55.Srimad Bhagavatam - Matsyavathara (Lord Descends as Divine Fish)  

Why did Lord Narayana descend as divine fish? Who is King Satyavratha? What was the divine fish’s request to Satyavratha?

Once, during the middle of kalpa, Brahma accidentally took a small nap during his creation work. Seizing this opportunity, demon Hayagreeva stole Vedas from Brahma and hid them deep inside the ocean.   

To retrieve back Vedas that are essential for the creation, Srihari took the form of a fish. He killed Hayagreeva and restored Vedas to Brahma.

Again, at the end of Kalpa and just before the deluge, Srihari took the form of a fish to protect King Satyavratha, the future Manu.

Once King Satyavratha of Pandya dynasty was performing his morning ablutions at Krathamala river. While holding the water in his palms a small fish appeared and said "Satyavratha, protect me from predators”. 

The King took pity on the fish and transferred it to his kamandal (carry pot). To his surprise, the fish grew in size and sought a bigger space. 

The king transferred the fish to a larger tub, to well, pond, and finally to the ocean. The king wondered who this fish could be and thought it must be none other than Srihari and offered his prayers.

Then Srihari, in fish form said, “Seven days from now, the world will cease to exist on account of deluge" (pralaya). Get into a large boat along with Saptarishis, Vedas, seeds of every variety, one pair of animals. I shall take the boat to Meru Parvatha and offer protection.   

As instructed, the king and others were waiting on a boat when a divine fish appeared with Vasuki as rope. The divine fish went around the boat and gave protection until the water subsided. The divine fish clarified doubts raised by Satyavratha. 

Satyavratha, in his next birth, was born to Vivasvan (Sun God) as Shraddadeva. In the present kalpa, Shraddhadeva is also known as Vivaswatha Manu.  

Vivasvan is son of Sage Kasyapa and Aditi (daughter of Daksha Prajapathi), grandson of Saptarishi Marici and great grandson of Brahma. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

54. Bhagavatha - Extermination of Kshatriyas by Parasurama

54.Srimad Bhagavatham - Extermination of Kshatriyas by Parasurama   

Why did Parasurama undertake pilgrimage? Why did Parasurama kill his own mother and brothers? Who killed Sage Jamadagni? How was the Kshatriya race vanquished?

After killing Karthaveerya and his huge army, Parasurama brought back the divine cow and calf to his ashrama and offered it to his father, Sage Jamadagni. 

When he narrated the war incident, Sage Jamadagni wasn't happy and advised him to desist from such action. He said “Killing a king is equivalent to Brahmahatya”. He asked Parasurama to go on a pilgrimage to cleanse this sin. Parasurama undertook a pilgrimage for a year. 

On a fateful day, Renuka, the Sage's wife, went to fetch water from Ganga and saw Chitraratha, the King of Gandarvas. For a while, she was gazing at the sporting Gandarva and got delayed from her usual routine. The water needed for oblations into the sacred fire got delayed.  

Terribly afraid of the curse, she placed the pitcher in front of her husband and stood with joined palms. Sage Jamadagni was enraged with the mental lapse of his wife and said to his sons “ Kill this sinful woman”. Parasurama was away, and his other sons refused to kill their mother. 

When Parasurama returned, he was asked to do away with his mother and brothers. Parasurama, who knew the powers of his father, immediately undertook the task with no second thought. Sage Jamadagni, being gratified, asked Parasurama to seek a boon. 

Parasurama requested to bring back the lives of his mother and brothers and that they shouldn't know about this incident. The Sage was pleased and granted the boon. 

Once Parasurama and his brothers had gone to the forest. To take revenge for their father’s death, Karthaveerya’s sons attacked Sage Jamadagni, who was in Samadhi state. Renuka begged them to spare her husband's life. Yet they cut off the Sage's neck and took the head away. Renuka cried out loudly “Rama, Rama”.   

Hearing from a distance the loud cry, Parasurama reached the ashrama and found the headless body of his father. He told his brothers to take care of the mortal remains of their father and headed to Mahismathi. 

He owed to vanquish entire kshatriya kings. He killed all the sons of Karthaveeryaarjuna and brought his father's head. With due reverence, he performed the last rites of his father.  

It is said that Renuka beat her breast 21 times due to deep agony caused by her husband's brutal murder. Parasurama, too, went around the earth 21 times to vanquish wicked Kshatriyas.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

53. Bhagavatha - Story of Karthaveerya Arjuna

 53.Srimad Bhagavatam - Story of Karthaveerya Arjuna

Who is Karthaveerya Arjuna? What boon did he get from Lord Dattatreya? Why did Arjuna imprison Ravana? Why did Parashurama kill Arjuna?

Karthaveerya Arjuna is the son of King Kruthaveera. He was born with a paralysed hand. King Kruthaveera was concerned that his son may not be able to protect the kingdom due to his physical disability. 

Understanding his father’s concern, Karthaveerya requested him to wait till he sought the blessings of Lord Dattatreya, who was then residing at Sahyadri mountains. Dattatreya is the incarnation of Lord Srihari. 

Being a Yogeshwar, Dattatreya never allowed anyone near Him as He avoided distraction. Arjuna approached Him with great difficulty and had to undergo severe tests. He served Dattatreya with dedication. 

When Karthaveerya was asked to seek a boon, he requested the Lord to cure his disability.   

Dattatreya said “ I shall give you 1000 arms. None will defeat you until you commit a mistake. Also, he granted unusual sense organs benefit (could see whatever he wished to see, hear from a long distance, and go to any place as per his wish). 

Karthaveerya returned and took over the kingdom from his father. He ruled the kingdom very efficiently. He could prevent crimes, big or small, through his special powers. There was no need to employ spies in his kingdom. He traveled to three worlds at the speed of wind. 

Karthaveerya had many wives. As a pastime, he took his wives to the Narmada River. They desired to see his 1000 arms and their strength. Karthaveerya created an artificial dam across the river using his arms. The water flooded the nearby areas. 

Ravana, who was on digvijaya yatra, was camping with his army in that region. Though he had no intention to attack Karthaveerya, he could not accept his supremacy and valour. 

Ravana attacked Karthaveerya but was defeated with ease. Karthaveerya caught hold of him on his shoulder and imprisoned him. 

Sage Pulasya, the grandfather of Ravana, had to request Karthaveerya to release his grandson, Ravana. Accordingly, he was released, and Ravana never again ventured to attack Karthaveerya.

Once Karthaveerya and his troop went on a hunting spree and after a long haul reached Sage Jamadagni's ashram. Sage Jamadagni is the son of Sage Rcika and Satyavati.

The Sage was happy and asked the king to accept his hospitality. The king was reluctant as he had a large troop of men and horses to serve.   

The Sage said that due to spiritual merits, I was offered a divine cow (Havismati) of the Kamadenu family. I use her exclusively to get milk, curd, and ghee for my yagna. This cow can give whatever is asked for”.  

The Sage requested the cow to feed everyone present there to their full satisfaction. The cow did it accordingly. 

Karthaveerya was aghast at the yogic powers of the Sage. Instead of thanking the Sage, he sought the possession of the divine cow. The Sage politely declined to let go of his divine cow. The cow and its calf were happy with the Sage and were not willing to move out.

The King, instead, ordered his troops to forcefully carry the cow to Mahismathi, his capital city.

When Lord Parasurama (incarnation of Lord Narayana and the youngest son of Sage Jamadagni) was informed about the incident, he straight away went to Mahismathi with his powerful axe.

On knowing Parasurama’s anger and his strength, Karthaveerya sent a huge army of 17 akshauhinis. Parasurama neutralized them in no time.

Seeing the blood strained bodies of his army, Karthaveerya attacked Parasurama with his 1000 arms. He threw arrows with each of his arms at one stretch. Parasurama cut all his arms swiftly and his neck. Karthaveerya's sons ran away from the field as they could not face Parasurama. 

Upon killing Karthaveerya, Parasurama took back his cow and calf to the ashrama and gave it to his father. 

Sage Jamadagni, on knowing about the incident, advised Parasurama to desist from such acts and remain dutiful to family norms (brahmanical way). 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

One akshauhini consists of 21870 chariots, 21870 elephants, 65610 horses, and 109350 foot soldiers. In the Kurushetra war, Duryodana had 11 akshauhinis while Padavas had just 7.

Parasurama acquired kshatriya qualities because of the exchange of Caru between his grandmother, Satyavati (wife of Sage Rcika), and her mother.  

51. Bhagavatha - Story of Nimi

 51. Srimad Bhagavatha - Story of King Nimi 

 

Who is King Nimi? Why did Sage Vasishta curse the King, and how did he react? Why did the Soul of King Nimi refuse to get back to its body ? Who is Janaka?

Once, King Nimi, son of Ikswaku, commenced a yagna and invited Sage Vasishta to be the chief priest.

Sage Vasistha was already invited by Indra to conduct his yagna. The Sage told the King to wait until he completed the present task and went to heaven. The king remained silent. 

King Nimi thought further delay may not allow him to perform the yagna due to the limited life span of human life. Hence, he began the yagna with the help of other priests.

Sage Vasishta returned back and perceiving the indecorum on the part of his disciple, King Nimi, the Sage cursed “Let the body of Nimi, who regards himself learned, fall”.

King Nimi counter cursed Sage Vasishta “ Let your body too fall for not knowing what is right, on account of greed”.

King Nimi, who was well versed in spiritual pursuit, gave up his life. Sage Vasishta was reborn with the help of Mitra Varuna through Urvasi.

Preserving the body of King Nimi in oil, the foremost of sages conducted the sacrifice on behalf of King Nimi as yagna shouldn't be stalled. 

Gods were very much pleased and assembled at the yagna. The sages said “ O Gods, If you are pleased, let this body of King Nimi come back to life.” They agreed to bring back life to King Nimi.

However, the Soul of Nimi declined to enter the mortal body again. The soul said “ Let me not get imprisoned in the mortal body again as it brings in suffering, grief, and fear. Death threatens the soul everywhere, just like a fish that gets threatened even in water. 

The Gods blessed the Soul of Nimi “May you reside at will in the eyes of pious souls”. In this way, King Nimi took up his abode in all jivas in the form of opening and closing of eyes.  

The Sages, left with no option, decided to churn the body of King Nimi to get a progeny as the country without a king would lead to unrest. 

On churning, a son was born to King Nimi. By virtue of his extraordinary birth, the prince was called Janaka. Born in the lineage of King Nimi (who remained without a body), the prince was named Vaideha (son of Videha / bodyless). Sprung from the process of churning, the prince was also called Mithila, who later on built the great city of Mithila.

Janaka became a generic name of descendants of King Nimi. When Siradhwaja, descendant of Janaka, was ploughing the earth to begin a sacrifice, Goddess Sitadevi made her appearance.   

All the kings of Mithila were proficient in Self- knowledge. They were rid of pairs of opposites (Joy and Sorrow) even in their households.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana