M16 - Mahabharata - Vishesha Dharma - An Accepted Norm in that Era

 M16 - Mahabharata - Vishesha Dharma - An Accepted Norm in that Era

Hastinapura faced a cliff moment when Vichitraveerya, the second son of Satyavathi and Shantanu, met an untimely death, leaving no progeny. 

Satyavathi was very much troubled and made a request to Bheeshma to beget progeny for Ambalika and Ambika. She said “Apad dharma is suitable for Kshtriyas. You can consider and make a decision that will bring happiness to pitrus (dead souls)”.

Bheeshma said, “ I do not wish to take kingship or beget children. I am firm in my resolution of remaining a bachelor throughout my life. I had taken a promise in front of your father, as Kanya Shulka (price for getting a bride for my father).

He said the Sun, the Moon, the Sky, the earth can forego their nature traits, but my vow will never fail. I will not break my promise.

Satyavathi says,” I am aware of the firmness with which you follow dharma. You always speak the truth and will not go against your words. Who will take care of the Kingdom after your demise? Is there a way out so that the lineage thread of the Kuru dynasty is not broken? 

Bheeshma said that in the ancient past, there was a custom accepted for Kshtriyas to take the help of Vedic Scholars or revered Sages to beget children. This is no sin attached to it. 

When Sage Jamadagni was killed, Lord Parasurama was angry with Kshatriyas. He decided to wipe out the Kshatriya race by going around the world 21 times. Those who survived his onslaught went into hiding. The spouses of those kings who were yet to beget progeny were in a dilemma. 

According to yuga and apad dharma, and with no other intention of any sort, these women sought the help of tapasvi brahmanas for progeny. It was an accepted norm during that period.

Satyavathi liked this suggestion and felt it was time to reveal the secret birth of her divine son, Sage Vyasa, through Sage Parasara. She told Bheeshma how she met Sage Parasara at Yamuna River and other related events.

With the permission of Bheeshma and other elders, she invited her son, Sage Vyasa. 

As promised, Sage Vyasa, the knower of all, presented himself and asked the purpose of being invited. 

Satyavathi informed him of the death of her sons, Chitrangada and Vichitraveerya, and requested him to bless her daughters-in- law with progeny.

The Sage agreed and put forth his condition that her daughters-in-law should observe penance for a year in order to cleanse their mind or bear with my external appearance and be blessed to get worthy progeny. 

However, Satyavathi declined as the Kingdom needed an heir apparent soon. She requested her daughters-in-law to cooperate for the sake of progeny.

Ambika couldn't bear the outer appearance of the Sage as he was dark in complexion, with long beard and bodily unclean. She closed her eyes and consequently was blessed with a strong but blind son. Satyavathi wasn't happy as a blind person is incapable of ruling the Kingdom. 

When Ambalika met Sage Vyasa, she turned pale on approaching him. Consequently, she was blessed with a male child with skin disorder.  

Again, Satyavathi requested Sage Vyasa to give one more chance, and the Sage reluctantly agreed. This time, Ambika was again asked to meet the Sage. Ambika did not resist but instead sent her maid. The maid gave due respect to the Sage and was blessed with a son with an intellectual bent of mind. 

Sage Vyasa informed his mother about Ambika's act and declined to offer any further help. Thereafter, he disappeared. 

Source: Mahabharatha - Sabha Parva 

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M15. Mahabharata - Short Life of Chitrangada and Vichitraveerya

 M15. Mahabharata - Short Life of Chitrangada and Vichitraveerya 

Chitrangada and Vichitraveerya were born to King Shantanu and Satyavathi. Not long enough, King Shantanu passes away, and the responsibility of taking care of young lads falls on Bheeshma. 

Chitrangada grew up to become a great warrior. Gradually, pride took over him to the extent he believed that none can defeat him, be it humans or gods. 

Gandarva Chief, who also possessed the same name as Chitrangada, heard it and challenged him. A war broke out between them near Kuruskhetra, which continued for 3 full years. Both were fierceful, but ultimately, Gandarva killed the prince using foul means of invisible warfare. Bheeshma performed the last rites of his half-brother, Chitrangada. 

Vichitraveerya, the second scion of Kuru Dynasty, was nurtured to become the future king. He was very obedient and an able ruler. People equated him to King Shantanu.

When Vichitraveerya entered adolescence, Bheeshma and Satyavathi decided to get him married to a suitable bride. 

Secretively, Bheeshma was informed that Kashi Raja intends to perform Swayamvara for his 3 daughters, Amba, Ambika, and Ambalika. Bheeshma, though uninvited, decided to attend the event for the sake of Vichitraveerya. 

The kings who were present at Swayamvara were rather surprised and even mocked at Bheeshma as he had taken a vow of celibacy and had crossed marriageable age. 

Hearing it, Bheeshma said he intended to take the brides for Vichitraveerya, using Rakshasa Vivah (one of the practices adopted for marriage and acceptable for kshatriyas) and challenged the kings who stood against it. 

He sought the permission of Kashi Raja and immediately took the brides in his chariot and moved towards Hastinapura.  

Meanwhile, the kings who participated in that event were angry and chased Bheeshma. Bheeshma gave them a fitting reply through his prowess. King Salva, who desired to marry Amba, also had to face a humiliating defeat.

Upon reaching Hastinapura, Amba makes a request to send her to King Salva as she desires to marry him. Bheeshma honoured her request and sent her back, but King Salva refused to accept her on moral grounds.

Amba returns to Hastinapura and makes a request to Bheeshma to marry her, which the latter flatly refuses.

Meanwhile, Ambika and Ambalika were married to Vichitraveerya. Drowned in sensuous pleasure for a very long period, Vichitraveerya failed to perform his prescribed duties as a king. 

Eventually, he fell prey to tuberculosis disease and met his end, leaving no progeny. 

Source: Mahabharatha - Sabha Parva

Technically, the Kuru dynasty ended with the death of Vichitraveerya. Extreme self-esteem led to the fall of Chitrangada, and insatiable desires led to the fall of Vichitraveerya. No matter what, destiny has a role to play in each one’s life.

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M14 - Mahabharata - Devavrata Makes a Terrific Vow

 M14 - Mahabharata - Devavrata Makes a Terrific Vow

 

Devavrata, the crown prince of the Kuru Dynasty, took care of the administration efficiently. Once King Shantanu went hunting near Yamuna River and was pleasantly surprised by the fragrance emitted there. He sees a beautiful lady near the river bank and makes inquiries about her whereabouts.  

The lady introduced herself as Satyavathi, daughter of Dasaraja. As per her father’s wish, she was assigned to row the boat across the river for travellers. 

[Vasu Maharaj is the biological father of Satyavathi. Dasaraja was given the girl child and was named Matsya Gandi. Due to the grace of Sage Parasara, she got rid of the fish smell and instead fragrance emitted from her body.]

Charmed by her beauty, the king wished to meet her father and place a proposal to marry her. 

Dasaraja welcomed the king with honours and was overwhelmed by the proposal but put forth his condition. The king agreed, provided it was feasible. 

Dasaraja knew the king had a worthy son and was the crown prince and yet said the male child born out of their wedlock should be heir apparent. The king did not want to do injustice to Devavrata and hence returned back to his kingdom silently. 

The thought of Satyavathi was constantly disturbing him. Devavrata noticed it and questioned him. The king subtly said he is worried about the legacy of the kuru kingdom. His conviction was that if some untoward event occurred, the kingdom would be left with no legacy.

Devavrata could intelligently grasp the hidden issue of his father. He contacted trusted ministers and reached out to Dasaraja. He made a rare request to Dasaraja to facilitate the marriage of his daughter with his father, King Shantanu. 

Dasaraja was very much pleased with Devavrata, and since he couldn't oppose him directly, he politely said “I have no objection but foresee danger to my daughter's children from you”. 

Devavrata's sole intention was to make his father happy and hence took a vow not to claim rulership. However, Dasaraja was still not satisfied. Dasaraja said, “what if your children claim their due rights over the Kingdom?”

Devavrata again made a terrific vow to remain celibate throughout his life. By making such a vow, Devavrata became Bheeshma, one who made a terrible promise.

[Devavrata, in his previous birth, was a Vasu (Demigod), carrying a curse of Sage Vasishta to be born as human. The Sage had said that he would live long, be powerful, but remain bachelor. The curse had its effect now.]

Dasaraja was happy and sent his daughter, Satyavathi, along with Bheeshma. When the news reached King Shantanu, he was overwhelmed with joy and blessed his son, Devavrata, that he could choose the exact time of his death. Death will not approach Beeshma until he so wishes.

Shantanu married Satyavathi, and in the course of time, they had 2 sons, Chitrangada and Vichitraveerya. 

Source: Mahabharatha - Sambava Parva

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M13 - Mahabharata - King Shantanu Led a Pious Life

 M13. Mahabharata - King Shantanu Led a Pious Life  

When King Shantanu broke his promise, his wife Ganga left him with their 8th child. The king was sad and returned back to his kingdom and was immersed in administrative work. 

He developed equanimity and treated the citizens as his own progeny, making no differentiation. He was always friendly with them. He was like Sun God in strength, Wind god in speed and punished Adharmic people similar to Yama raja. He never killed animals for fun. 

He believed in fulfilling Devaruna (by performing yaga, yagnas and duties towards God), Rishiruna (by reading scripture), and Pitruruna (by performing prescribed rituals to ancestors).

Under his rule, people never lied, and they always adhered to a dharmic way of life. King Shantanu was kind-hearted (as his name suggests) and was an able administrator. He led a disciplined life and ruled the kingdom for 36 years. 

Once, while hunting near Ganga River, he noticed that the mighty river was running like a small stream instead of its usual vast expanse. Upon keen observation, he found the river had been obstructed by a dam made of innumerable arrows.

He saw a charming boy with the divinity of Devendra practicing archery. The king was astonished that a young boy had built an artificial dam across the river using arrows. Seeing the King, the boy disappeared. 

King Shantanu called Ganga and enquired about the boy. Ganga appeared before him with the boy and said, “I am returning your son, Devavrata. He is now capable of assisting you in running the kingdom.  

Further, Ganga said Devavrata had learnt Vedas and other scriptures from none other than Sage Vasishta; also has learnt astras (weapons with divine mantras) and sastras (bows, arrows, mace etc) vidyas from Sage Parasurama.

She informed him that their son is as powerful as Lord Indra in warriorship; equivalent to Brihspathi and Shukracharya in knowledge. also has mastered administrative skills, Neeti Shastra (Law), and Raja dharma. 

Shantanu was very happy and returned back to Hastinapura along with Devavrata. He made Devavrata his heir apparent (Crown Prince) of the Kuru Dynasty. Subjects celebrated the event in a grand manner. 

Devavrata looked after the day to day administration and was effectively managing the kingdom. Shantanu spent four years happily along with his son.

Source : Mahabharatha - Sambava Parva 

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M12. Mahabharata - Shantanu Weds Ganga and Birth of Devavrata

 M12. Mahabharata - Shantanu Weds Ganga and Birth of Devavrata 

Why was King Shantanu unhappy with Ganga's acts?

Once King Shantanu went on a hunt and reached the banks of Ganga River. A beautiful lady appeared before him, and the king was naturally attracted to her and made a proposal (afterall It's a play of destiny - desires of previous birth as King Mahabisha).

Ganga never revealed her identity but accepted his proposal. She put forth her condition that she shouldn't be, at any cost, question her actions, lest she would leave him forever. 

When the first child was born, Ganga, as desired by Vasus, took the baby to the river and gave it a water burial. 

Shantanu was astonished but couldn't question her for the fear that she might leave him forever. As destined, he took the pain of losing his child. This process of giving birth to a child and drowning it carried on until the eighth child.

When Ganga was taking the baby to the river side, Shantanu became furious and stopped her, undeterred by the consequences. He questioned her who she was, why she was behaving oddly, and what her motive was.

Ganga calmly revealed her identity and said those babies were Asta Vasus (demigods gods), and their water burials were as per their wish.

She told him that he is fortunate to father them and also the merits he had earned during his previous birth.

She revealed the curse of Sage Vasishta on Ashta Vasus and her request to retain at least one of them for the progeny of King Shantanu. 

Curse of Vasishta on Ashta Vasus 

When Shantanu asked Ganga to detail him on the curse, Ganga said, “ Sage Vasista, born to Varuna (in this kalpa), was involved in tapas near Meru Parvatha He had a divine cow, Nandini, to fulfill the needs of yagnas.  

Once, Ashta Vasus (8 in no.) were going around his ashrama and saw the divine cow. Among them, the youngest Vasu Jouhu's wife desired to know about it. Jouhu said the milk of this cow gives a person strength, longevity, and good health. 

Jouhu's wife had a friend, and she intended to give this cow to her. She pleaded with Jouhu to get it for her friend. 

Since the Sage was not in ashrama, Jouhu captured the cow with the help of other Vasus and took them to their place. Unfortunately, they never had an afterthought of its consequences. 

Sage Vasishta returned back to his ashrama only to know that Nandini cow was missing. He searched for it everywhere and finally, using his yogic power, could trace it.   

The Sage was angry that it had been taken away for personal purposes and not for the welfare of the people.

The Sage cursed the Vasus of Garba Naraka (suffering in a womb) and will be born as humans on earth. When Vasus realized their fault, they sought forgiveness.  

The Sage said the curse cannot be reversed, but your stay on earth can be shortened to a year. The last Vasu Jouhu will live long, remain as a bachelor, and will not have progeny. He will have immense strength and earn a good name for the family.

Ganga said to Shantanu that she would take care of his son and hand over to him after the studies. She left with her son, Devavrata.

Source: Mahabharatha - Adiparva

M11. Mahabharata - Rebirth of Mahabisha as Shantanu

 M11. Mahabharata - Rebirth of Mahabisha as Shantanu

Why did Ganga meet King Pradipa?

King Pradipa, son of Dilipa of the Kuru lineage, had earned great merits. While the King was in tapas, Ganga, to test, quietly went near him and sat on his right lap. The king was astonished but remained calm. 

Unaware who this lady is, the King politely asked her who she was, the purpose of her visit. Ganga introduced herself and made a request to have a relationship with him. She also asserted he would be fit, for her stature, to be her spouse.

The king calmly said he observes Eka Patni Vrat and wishes not to break this rule for life. He suspected her act of sitting on his right lap, which is usually preserved for a son or a daughter or may be for a daughter-in-law (sitting on the left lap is preserved for spouse) 

The King said to Ganga, “Your action and speech do not match and hence can not accept you as my spouse. You can be my future daughter-in-law, though the aged king, till then, was childless.

Ganga was happy and readily accepted his proposal. She said,” Your yet-to-born son is a revered Sage and has earned sufficient merits. He would attain heaven and his progeny would be well-known as warriors and followers of dharma”. Ganga requested secrecy of their meeting and immediately left the place.

Later, King Pradipa had a son, Shantanu, who was soft-spoken, well-behaved, and grew up to become a great warrior. 

When Shantanu grew up and attained a marriageable age, King Pradipa said, “ A lady would meet you secretly and propose. You should neither question her whereabouts nor ask her name but accept her as spouse. This is my order”.

Shantanu, who had earned great merits in the past, was able to remember his previous birth as King Mahabisha and the curse of Lord Brahma. Hence, he maintained equanimity. 

King Pradipa, when time arrived, handed over the kingdom to Shantanu and retired to the forest.

Source: Mahabharatha - Adiparvam

King Shantanu, son of King Pradipa, in this birth is Chandravamshi, while during his previous birth as King Mahabisha of Ikswaku lineage was a Suryavamshi.

Ikswaku is the son of Vaivaswata Manu and the grandson of Vivasvan (Sun-god).

Source: Mahabharatha- Adiparva 

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M3 - Mahabharata - Vasuki's Concern and Search for Aastika Maharishi

 M3 - Mahabharata - Vasuki's Concern and Search for Aastika Maharishi 

What is Serpent Adishesha’s frustration?

Adishesha was the first born serpent of Kadru. When Kadru made an unrighteous demand upon her progeny, Adishesha got frustrated and went away, severing ties with his mother and siblings. He undertook strenuous tapas. Brahma was pleased by the tapas of Adishesha and asked him to seek a boon. 

Lord Brahma Consoles Adishesha 

Adishesha says, "I am not interested in seeking boon, but I am concerned with the adharmic activity of my mother, Kadru, and infighting among his siblings”. 

Brahma consoles him and says King Janamejaya's Sarpa yaga is destined, and none can stop it. Further, Brahma said Aastika Maharshi would help stop the Sarpa Yaga, and all dharmic serpents would be protected. 

Brahma assigned Adishesha the job of holding the earth stable on his head, a task that none other could do. 

What was Serpent Vasuki’s concern?

Vasuki, the second son of Kadru, was worried about King Janamejaya’s Yaga and was devising ways to protect snakes from extinction. Some snakes suggested killing King Janamejaya, but such a suggestion was not accepted. Thenceforth snakes decided to seek advice from Father Sage Kashyapa.

Who is Serpent Ellapatru, and what is secretive dialogue narrated by the serpent?

Just then, one serpent by name Ellapatru said, “When this curse was pronounced, I was young and sleeping on Mother Kadru's lap. I heard a secretive dialogue between Devatas and Lord Brahma. Devatas asked Brahma how come a mother be so cruel towards her own sons. 

Brahma said, “The curse on serpents would in time prove good as their reproduction rate is very high. Snakes by their very nature are aggressive, and hence, their excessive population is not good for the welfare of humanity. At an appropriate time, Astika Maharishi would help stop the Sarpa Yaga and enable the survival of dharmic snakes.

Brahma said, “Aastika Maharishi would be born as the son of Sage Jagadkaru. Sage Jagadkaru would fulfill his ancestors' wish for progeny. He would marry a girl bearing the same name. Vasuki would give his sister Jagadkaru in marriage to Sage Jagadkaru”.

Vasuki Awaits Sage Jagadkaru's Call For Bride

Vasuki was relieved of his undue worries and thenceforth asked the serpents to ascertain the whereabouts of Sage Jagadkaru. He told the snakes to wait until the Sage sought help to find a bride and keep him informed about developments. 

In the course of time , Sage Jagadkaru loudly called for a bride as a gift, and Vasuki was duly informed. Vasuki approached Sage Jagadkaru and agreed to give his sister in marriage to him.  

Snakes blessed Aastika Maharishi and said, “Those who read, hear, or narrate your story would be protected from fear of snakes.

Source : Mahabharatha - Adi Parva 

M2 - Mahabharata - Sage Jagadkaru's Marriage and Aastika Maharishi Stops Sarpa Yaga

 M2- Mahabharata - Sage Jagadkaru's Marriage and Aastika Maharishi Stops Sarpa Yaga

Who is Sage Jagadkaru?

Sage Jagadkaru is the father of Maharishi Aastikai. On the request of the Maharishi Aastika, King Janamejaya stopped Sarpa Yaga, and thereby, serpent species were protected.

Sage Jagadkaru was a great tapasvi and remained brahmachari. He had no permanent place to live. His tapas were so powerful that he could see pitrudevatas in person. 

Once, to quench his thirst, the Sage was in search of a well. In a dry well, he saw pitrudevas hanging upside down from tree roots. He questioned them about their identity. They said they were his ancestors and explained their predicament (owing to the want of progeny they were unable to move to heaven).

Sage Jagadkaru agrees to marry

The Sage understood the plight of pitrudevatas and agreed to marry in order to beget a son. However, he put in some unique conditions for marrying. The sage sought for a bride who possessed good character, a matching name as his, said that he would take up tapas once a son is born, and also demanded that the bride should be given as part of Kanyadhan. Pitrudevatas agreed to his terms and agreed to facilitate the process.

 Sage Jagadkaru Meets Serpent Vasuki 

The Sage Jagadkaru was roaming around a forest and said,” Is there anyone who is willing to give me a bride as kanyadhan?”. 

Shortly, Vasuki, the serpent head, met the Sage and agreed to offer his sister, Jagadkaru, in kanyadhan to him. As all his conditions were met, the Sage agreed to marry Jagadkaru.

A son, Aastika, was born out of wedlock. Aastika was well versed in Vedas and was revered. 

Aastika Maharishi Makes a Request

Aastika Maharishi went to King Janamejaya’s Sarpa Yaga and was welcomed by the King with honours. The King politely asked him the purpose of his visit. 

When Serpent King Takshaka was about to fall into the Homa kund of Sarpa Yaga, Aastika Maharishi stopped him from falling. 

Maharishi said to King Janamejaya, “I request you to stop this Yaga in order to protect the remaining snakes belonging to my mother’s relatives”. The king agreed, and thus, snake species were protected.

Source: Mahabharatha- Adiparva

M1 - Mahabharata - King Janamejaya Begins Sarpa Yaga

 M1 - Mahabharata - King Janamejaya Begins Sarpa Yaga 

Who is King Janamejaya? Why did he conduct Sarpa Yaga?

King Janamejaya is the son of King Parikshit, grandson of Abhimanyu and the great-grandson of Arjuna. King Parikshit was killed by Serpent King Takshaka in order to take revenge on Arjuna*, who was responsible for killing his tribe in Kandava Vana Firing. 

Who is Uttanka, and why did he urge the king to perform the yaga?

King Janamejaya was not keen to avenge Takshaka, but Uttanka, the disciple of Sage Gouthama, instigated the King Janamejaya to punish Takshaka as both were victims. Since Uttanka couldn’t do it alone, he sought the help of the king. 

(Takshaka once tricked Uttanka when he was about to fulfill the wish of his Guru's wife). Uttanka agreed to perform Sarpa Yaga for the King, and in the process, serpents fell one after the other into the Homa kunda. Takshaka sought Indra's help, but Indra couldn't do much. 

Who is Aruna, and why did he curse his mother, Vinata?

Kadru is the mother of 1000 powerful serpents. She had a sister, Vinata, and both were married to Sage Kashyapa. Vinata sought from her husband a boon that she be the mother of two eagles who must be more powerful than Kadru's sons.

Kadru’s 1000 eggs hatched, and serpents were born. Intolerant Vinata broke open one of her eggs, and to her dismay, a half born eagle, Aruna was born. 

Aruna curses his mother for his plight and says she would become a slave on whom she was jealous. He went to suryamandal and served as charioteer to Sun God. 

He also warned Vinata not to break open the second egg as the son born out of it would help her get rid of slavery. Garuda was born after 500 years and helped her get rid of slavery.  

How was Vinata tricked? 

Once Kadru and Vinata went for a walk near the sea shore and saw Ucchishrava, a pure white divine horse. Both appreciated its beauty and colour. Kadru hatched a plan and wilfully declared the horse’s tail is black. 

Vinata disagreed with her sister, and the casual talk between the sisters turned into a contest. 

Kadru Curses Her Sons

Kadru makes a dishonest request to her serpent sons to coil around the divine horse in order to win the contest. The snakes declined their mother's demand and, in turn, were cursed by Kadru - to become sacrificial victims during King Janamejaya’s Sarpa Yaga. 

To escape the consequences of the curse, one lone snake by the name Karkotaka agreed to fulfill her wish. 

The next day, when Kadru and Vinata met at the prescribed time, the horse’s tail appeared black, and Vinata became slave to Kadru. Vinata faced lots of humiliation from her sister.

Source: Mahabharatha- Adiparva

*Arjuna was protected by Srikrishna, and his son Abhimanyu was killed in the battlefield, and hence, Takshaka targeted Parikshit.

90. Bhagavatha- Brahma Speaks of Tattva and Seeks Pardon

 90. Srimad Bhagavata - Brahma Speaks of Tattva and Seeks Pardon

Brahma repeatedly prostrated before the Lord and extolled Him at length. 

He said, “Though I recite Vedas continuously, I am unable to comprehend your form. You can show up in any form and as desired by your devotees. 

Many noble souls strived in the past to reach you using a yogic path. They finally realized that devotion alone would enable them to reach you.  

One who constantly listens to your stories, talks about you, thinks about you, and dedicates all their actions to you will surely reach you. You are nirguna roopa. No gunas (rajas, sattiv, and tamas) can influence you. 

Some prefer your Sagunarupa (that which has a form). You have innumerable forms and hence it is difficult to choose. The best way is to select one form, hold, and surrender unconditionally until they reach you.

Devotion and Spiritual Knowledge (Atma Tattva Gnana)

Devotion brings worldly prosperity and final blessings. Knowledge without devotion will only lead to sorrow or pain. It can be equivalent to large sized paddy without a good rice within.

Ignorance (Brahmaa): Seeing things in a different way. Suppose you see a rope in the dark and assume it as a snake. (i.e., not seeing rope as a rope)

Missing Information: Flashing light on it and studying the features of a rope brings in change in thinking (knowledge). The benefit is safety. The basic assumption is that rope is lifeless and cannot move on its own. Only then can the difference be obtained. Seeing a rope as rope is knowledge.

Brahma speaks about Samsara Brahmaa (illusion)

The misperception that worldly life is real is an illusion caused by ignorance (seeing things in a different way). This ignorance is destroyed by atma tattva gnana (spiritual knowledge). 

Atma Tattva

Atma Tattva should be pure and alone (unmixed). Just like adding one more variable (movements) in the above example will not help make differentiation. We need to take features of the rope alone and nothing else. 

We do not need a lamp or torch to see the sun. Just like the Sun, tattva is to itself. Tattva alone cannot destroy ignorance. The sunlight and drywood have no enmity. Sunlight cannot burn drywood on its own. When a lens (convex) is placed between sun rays and the dry wood, wood catches fire. 

We need tattva gnana (a change in thinking) because it helps get rid of ignorance that worldly life is real.

Having said that, Brahma sought pardon from Srikrishna. He said, “You are Sriman Narayana, who has come in this form for the welfare of humanity. Who else can play this Maya? My Maya is relatively very small or minute as compared to yours. 

Since I have come out of your nabhi (stomach), I am your child. Please forgive this naughty child who misbehaved with you. He prostrated before Srikrishna again and sought permission to leave for his abode. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

89. Bhagavatha - Lord Brahma's Trick on Srikrishna Backfires

 89. Bhagavata - Lord Brahma's Trick on Srikrishna Backfires

To test Srikrishna's power, Brahma carried away the cowherds and calves from Vrindavan and put to sleep in his Maya kalpe. 

When Brahma came to Vrindavan almost a year later, he noticed Srikrishna was with his cowherds and calves and was wonderstruck.

Brahma kept on seeing the hidden calves, and cowherds kept safe in his custody and the one appearing before him back to back and was utterly confused.  

The cowherds and calves were looking similar but were not his creation and hence not bound by his Maya. 

SriSukamuni said Brahma’s Maya is like fireflies in daylight or as fog in dark nights. Vishnu Maya is far, far superior. 

Additionally, Srikrishna made each of the custodial cows and cowherds (hidden by Brahma) appear in His form - dark in completion, wearing yellow silk cloth, with four arms, carrying a conch, a discus, a mace and a lotus in their hands, curly hairs clearly visible on the chest (srivatsa), ear rings, a pearl necklace, anklets, bangles, and fresh basil leaves garland that hung from the top of the crown to the legs.

He is seen and all His creations, both animate and inanimate, Maha-tattva, Samskara, Time, 3 gunas, Kama, Karma, etc.

Brahma stood mute like a doll and could not comprehend through reason the peculiarities of the Lord. He stretched his body on the ground and touched His feet, and bathed them with his joyful tears.

 Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

88. Bhagavatha - Lord Brahma Hides Calves and Cowherds

 88. Srimad Bhagavata - Lord Brahma Hides Calves and Cowherds 

After listening to the narrative on Demon Agha, King Parikshit asked Sri Sukamuni, “How come the cowherds narrated this incident to their parents a year later. Why is there a time gap?

Sri Sukamuni went into Samadhi state and after a while, with great difficulty came out of it, and said, “ By asking a pertinent and intellectual question, you are changing the narrative of the Lord's story. 

Noble souls who get absorbed in it would like to talk only on Achutha and hear His stories repeatedly, as if they are listening to it for the first time. O King, listen carefully, I shall tell a story, though it is secretive.

After killing Demon Agha, Srikrishna transferred the cowherds and their calves to a safer place on the banks of Yamuna and said, ”Friends, this place is looking beautiful. We can play here as the mud is soft and clean. 

The river is flowing slowly, and the water collected is converted into a small pond. It is full of lotuses and the mild smell of it is attracting bees. Let's stay here for sometime and eat the food as we are oppressed with hunger. 

Let the calves drink water and be allowed to eat their feed on green grass. Readily agreeing to it, the cowherds picked up leaves, big and small, and used them as plates. 

They all sat in circles, but each one of them wished to sit in front of Srikrishna. Though it is not possible, each of them felt that he was sitting in front of Him. Srikrishna satisfied their need by appearing in multiple forms. 

They shared their meal before eating. Srikrishna was cracking jokes on them on how they behaved while entering the boa constrictor. After a while, one of the cowherds noticed that calves that were grazing nearby were not to be seen.  

Soon, there was a commotion, and cowherds got scared and stopped eating. Srikrishna assured them that He would bring back the calves and that they could continue their meals.

Srikrishna went in search of calves at every nook and corner but couldn't find them. Ultimately, He used his divine vision and found Lord Brahma had taken them away to a secretive place. Coming back, he saw cowherds, too, were missing. 

Srikrishna decided not to go back to home without calves and his fellow cowherds. He immediately cloned each of the calves and cowherds without any signs of difference.

Back home, the cows could not notice any change in their calves nor the mothers of cowherds. Indeed, it was Srihari everywhere in different forms. There was no change in behavior of the cowherds, in their habits, and in external appearance.  

Things moved on this way for one full year. Brahma wondered how come things were normal as before in Vrindavan, though the hidden calves and cowherds were still with him. 

Brahma realized his flaw for testing Srihari, who had descended as Srikrishna. He returned the calves and cowherds immediately. He went on praising Srihari at length. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

87. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna Revives Dead Calves and Cowherds

 87. Srimad Bhagavata - Srikrishna Revives Dead Calves and Cowherds

Srikrishna revived the dead calves and His companion by His compassionate look and took them out of the monster's mouth. 

The denizens of heaven were immensely happy and offered flowers, apsaras danced, gandarvas and vidyadharas played their instruments, the brahmanas through their hymns, and His own attendants made victory shouts. 

Hearing the auspicious sound of songs, instruments, and the victory shouts, Lord Brahma came to the spot at once.

The dry skin of the serpent at Vrindavan served as a great hollow for the sports of the inhabitants.

This deliverance of Demon Agha by Srikrishna done in His fifth year was recounted by the cowherds in His sixth year (a year later).  

Having heard the beautiful narration, Emperor Parikshit questioned Sri Sukamuni, “How can an act done à distant time (a year ago) be treated as present”? Please clarify this doubt. I am most blessed in this world to repeatedly drink the holy nectar in the shape of Srikrishna’s Leela”

Sage Suta, the disciple of Veda Vyasa, said, “On hearing this, Sri Sukamuni entered Samadhi state (was robbed of all his senses by Srikrishna). For a long time, he remained in that state. Attendees had to slowly bring him back to consciousness through hymns and prayers. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

24. Bhagavatha - Sage Dadichi's Sacrifice and Teachings

 24. Srimad Bhagavata - Sage Dadichi's Sacrifice and Teachings

Why did Sage Dadichi sacrifice his life? What were his teachings?

Dadichi was a highly respected sage and had command over Atarvaveda.

Devas, on recommendation of MahaVishnu, made a unique but pressing request to Sage Dadichi to sacrifice his life so that ashes of his body be made a weapon called Vajrayuda and that alone would kill Vritasur. 

Dadichi was neither surprised nor shocked but felt happy that his body was getting used for a greater purpose.

However, he examines Devas and questions them:

1. Are you not aware of the bondness towards the body for human beings, animals, or any living thing?

2. Are you not aware of the fear, sorrow, and sufferings when the soul departs from the body?

Mind, sense organs will stop working, and all the attention will be on the soul leaving the body.

Sage Dadichi explains why this suffering happens to the body?

The soul over a period of time develops immense love towards the body. For those who desire to live, this relationship is much deeper.

Every soul tries to protect its body in every possible way. Hence, how can you expect me to give up my body. Even if Mahavishnu asks, none will give up their body.

Devas say:

Yes, what you say is true. None wish to give up their body/life. We are asking you alone as you can give up everything. You are noble, have done good deeds, and have earned a good name.

World is selfish. People/living beings are not bothered about other's suffering. For example, Lion does not bother to kill its victim to satisfy its hunger. It doesn't bother the pain the victim undergoes.

Dharma says one who is capable will not deny to offer help. We are asking for help from you, not for us alone. It is for the good of all. Demon Vrithasur has swallowed all our weapons and caused threats and fear to the world.

Dadichi says:

I do not have any desire on my body. My desire is only on the soul. You can take away my body immediately and make use of it in the way you want.

One day, this body will have to leave me howsoever I protect it. We need it to use the body for Dharma, to earn a good name and for Bhoota daya.

Even non-fruit bearing trees in the forest is useful by providing shelter to those who lost their way.

Dharma can change during different stages of life. But there is one dharma which is permanent - if anyone is in sorrow, others should be considerate. Also, if one is happy, others too should feel happy and not be jealous.

On any day, this body has to fall. It is better to give it for a good cause than being fed to Wolf or Fox.

Saying so, he gave up the body using his yogic powers. All his sense organs were made to halt, his mind fixed on Almighty, and he dropped his body.

With no time wasted, Indra asked Vishwakarma (architect of gods) to make Vajrayuda out of the ashes of Dadichi's body. Equipped the divine weapon Indra waged war with Vrithasur and was able to kill him.

How did Dadichi get this divinity?

Dadichi had acquired immense power due to austerity. He had taught Viswarupa ‘Narayana Astra ‘ This knowledge was passed from Viswarupa to Lord Indra.

Source : Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

31. Bhagavata - Prahlad’s Devotion

 31. Srimad Bhagavata - Prahlada's Devotion and Hiranyakashipu’s Fear

Who is Prahlada? What were his teachings to fellow demon boys?

Prahlada, son of Demon Hiranyakashipu, was studious and learned all the lessons taught by his gurus, Chanda and Amaka, sons of Shukracharya He contemplated it but had his own views. 

Eager to know the progress, Hiranyakashipu sent words to bring his son. Hiranyakashipu, on seeing his son, hugged and made him sit on his lap.  

Prahlada recited all that he had learned from his gurus. He said this knowledge is of little use when one doesn't contemplate on Srihari. He said it is better to forgo everything and lead a life of a recluse in the forest. 

Hiranyakashipu wasn't angry because he felt someone would have misguided him. On further probing, Prahlada said he would fill his mind only on Shrihari’s deeds and related stories and avoid all external distractions.

Hiranyakashipu called his guru and warned them that such situations shouldn't arise next time. Prahlad was back to school, and his teachers Chanda and Amaka, as instructed by Hiranyakashipu, taught only administrative topics needed for a future king. Prahlad absorbed all the teachings and did not oppose them. 

Chanda and Amaka questioned Prahlada as to who had taught him devotion to Srihari. 

Prahlada replied it is Srihari in me who is prompting to spread the message of devotion. Just as iron pieces get attracted towards magnets, so also my thoughts are always with Srihari. 

When teachers were away for a break, fellow students desired to play games. Prahlad called them and began to teach on spiritual enlightenment. Hearing this, the teachers immediately reported to Hiranyakashipu.

Prahlad’s Teaching to Demon Boys  

Man must make total surrender to Srihari, and that is the only course for lasting happiness.

Sensual pleasures are obtained in every birth by destiny and are without any effort. Hence, no effort should be made as it is a mere waste of one’s life.

When the body is young and sound, one must strive for the blessedness to avoid rebirth.

If a hundred years is the lifespan of a human body, half of it is spent on sleep (approximately 50 years), 20 years elapses in infancy, last 20 years is spent helplessly when his body is engulfed in disease or old age. The remaining 10 years pass away in ignorance of ‘I’ and ‘Mine’. Man gets attached to his home and family, and the desires or demands are insatiable.

Prahlada received teachings from Sage Narada even before his birth

Prahlada received spiritual lessons from Sage Narada while he was in his mother's womb. Sage Narada protected Kayadhu, Hiranyakashipu’s wife, from Indra as the latter wanted to kill Hiranyakashipu’s progeny. 

The spiritual lessons were keenly heard and absorbed by Prahlad in the fetus itself. He could remember all the teachings, but his mother Kayadhu couldn't remember due to age and natural forces.  

What was Hiranyakashipu’s fear? 

Hiranyakashipu suspected danger from his son and decided to get rid of him. He

ordered his demons who had sharp teeth and fearful faces to dispose of his son Prahlad. 

Prahlad was poisoned, was thrown from a hill, boulders were thrown on him, wild elephants were made to stamp on him and was thrown in dark caves. Yet Prahlad was least affected by the atrocities.

Hiranyakashipu was aghast to see Prahlad not getting affected by the atrocities meted on him by his ferocious demons. He also noticed that Prahlad was not getting any visible support from anyone, nor was he seeking any help through prayers or weapons. All the more, Prahlad remained calm and fearless. 

This baffled Hiranyakashipu, and he remembered Sage Shunashepa, who was sold for a price by his own father. Shunashepa wasn't angry with his father, but at an appropriate time, he relinquished his father's lineage. Vedas speaks highly of Sage Shunashepa.

Hiranyakashipu, who had knowledge of Vedas, felt Prahlad, though not opposing him, would someday take revenge on him.  

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

1. Bhagavatha - Story of Narada and Characteristics of Bhagavatha

 1. Srimad Bhagavatha - Story of Narada and Characteristics of Bhagavatha

Who is Sage Narada and why did he narrate his story to Sage Ved Vyasa? What are the ten characteristics features of Bhagavatha? Why is Srihari called Narayana?

Sage Narada narrates his previous birth experience to Sage Ved Vyasa. Sage Narada is the mind-born son of Brahma. Ved Vyasa, an incarnation of Sri Hari, is born to Sage Parasara and Sathyavathi. 

Sage Narada was born to a maid servant and, as a young child, was told to serve wandering yogis who would stop at one place during chaturmasa (the rainy season). 

Sage Narada said “ I was free from all childish behaviour, was quite tame and submissive, and remained aloof from playful thoughts. With the willing consent of those brahmanas, I ate once a day from whatever was left in their dishes. It cleansed all my sins, and I attained purity of mind. I would listen to the stories of Sri Krishna daily and slowly developed an attraction for the Lord. My mind got firmly established in that Lord.

Every day, I heard songs praising Sri Hari with rapt attention. This devotion towards the Lord eradicated the element of Rajas (passion) and Tamas (ignorance) in me. 

Through this wisdom, I came to know the glory of that Maya (deluding potency) of Lord Vasudeva, by knowing which men attain His (supreme) Abode. Lord Keshava blessed me with self-knowledge, mystic powers, and loving devotion to His feet”.

Ten characteristic features of Bhagavatha Mahapurana  

Sarga - It is the creation of gross and subtle elements, sense of perception, organs of action, mind, ego, and Mahat tattva (the principle of cosmic intelligence. When Prakriti’s equilibrium is disturbed, Mahat tattva emerges. Prakriti’s three gunas are Sattiv, Rajas, and Tamas

Visarga - Creation of animate and inanimate beings by Brahma

Stana - Lord keeps animate and inanimate beings within their boundaries (e.g., Ocean)

Posana- Lord’s grace on His devotees

Manvantaras - Virtuous conduct of the saintly Manus 

Itihasas - Life accounts of various manifestations of Srihari and as well as of His devotees.

Utis - Latent desires of various creatures which lead to their bondage

Nirodha - Withdrawal of individual soul with all its qualifications into the Lord subsequent to His retirement (Pralaya)

Mukti - Jiva relinquishes doership and realises its true nature.

Ashraya - Realization of Supreme Brahma responsible for Creation, Preservation, and Dissolution.

Why is Srihari called Narayana?

The Supreme Person is called ‘Nara’. Having evolved from the Supreme Person, the water is also known as ‘Nara’. Srihari resided on these waters for a thousand (celestial) years. Hence, He is known as ‘Narayana’ 

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5. Bhagavatha - Story of Bhagiratha

5. Story of Bhagiratha - A king who sought alms in his own country 

 

King Bhagiratha did great penance to bring heavenly ganga to earth so as to enable his ancestors attain Moksha. In this process he faced several obstacles yet with great determination he was able to fulfill his wish.  

Later, he developed vairagya, a way of life desisting desires of any sort. He gave away his kingdom to one of his trusted ministers who reluctantly accepted it. 

Bhagiratha left the kingdom and lived in a neighbouring kingdom as a recluse, with bare minimum needs.

Time and way of life brought significance physical change in him as a result people failed to recognize him.

To test himself he decided to go back to his kingdom and more particularly to his palace and sought alms. To his surprise a guard recognized his voice and after enquiry he informed the present King. Everyone pleaded with him to take back kingship but he did not oblige. He preferred to live on alms. 

The present King attained heavenly adore leaving behind no progeny. With no option left, ministers and people pleaded Bhagiratha to take back the kingdom. Bhagiratha accepted and ruled the kingdom with no sense of attachment.

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M10. Mahabharatha - Story of Mahabisha and Curse on Ashta Vasus

M10. Mahabharatha - Story of Mahabisha and Curse on Ashta Vasus

Who is Emperor Mahabisha and what were his achievements? Why did Lord Brahma curse the Emperor? What did Ashta Vasus seek from Ganga?

Emperor Mahabisha of the Ikswaku dynasty was very efficient and had earned sufficient merits to visit Heaven and Brahma loka during his lifetime. He had conducted 1000 Ashwameda yagnas and 100 Rajasuja yagas for the welfare of the people.

Once, Mahabisha went to Brahmaloka along with other devatas and rishis. The most beautiful Ganga, in lady form, appeared in that assembly. Vayudeva sent a gentle breeze that displaced her upper garments. Emperor Mahabisha could not avoid seeing her, though everyone else brushed aside.

Observing this attitude of the King, Lord Brahma was annoyed as the decorum of the place was spoiled. He cursed Mahabisha to go back to earth and satisfy his sensuous pleasure with Ganga. He said,”You would cleanse your sin when you disapprove and suffer from Ganga's acts. Later, you can return to heaven. Ganga was also cursed to be born on earth and be Mahabisha’s wife.

Curse on Ashta Vasus 

While getting down from heaven, Ganga sees Ashta Vasus falling towards earth, losing their brightness in them. She questions them about the reason for their fall.

Vasus said, “ We were cursed by none other than Sage Vasishta for capturing his holy cow, Nandini, out of sheer ignorance. The cow was serving Sage Vasishta in yagas. The Sage cursed us of ‘Garba Naraka’ (suffering in a womb). 

Vasus requested Ganga to be their mother as they never wished to be born to an ordinary mortal. Ganga questions them as to whom they would choose to be their father. Vasus said Mahabisha will be soon reborn as Shantanu to King Pradeepa. We chose him to father us and Ganga agreed to it.

Vasus further made a request to her to give them water burial, immediately after their birth, as they did not wish to stay long on earth.

Ganga agrees with the condition that at least one of them should remain on earth to continue the legacy of King Shantanu.

Vasus said the eighth Vasu would stay back on earth and that each of us would give one-fourth of our merit to him. He would live long, bring glory to the family as a great warrior, but remain a bachelor. 

 

M9. Mahabharatha - Birth of Sage Vyasa and Greatness of Parasara Maharishi

M9. Mahabharatha - Adiparva - Birth of Sage Vyasa and Greatness of Parasara Maharishi 

Who is Sage Parasara and how Sage Veda Vyasa was born? What was Satyavathi's boon?

Parasara Maharishi is Trikala Vedi (one who knows past, present, and future events). He knew Satyavathi was the daughter of Uparichita Vasu in the present birth, and in her past birth, she was Achodha, the mind born daughter of Pitru devata. She had earned sufficient merit to be the mother of Vyasa.

Once, Parasara Maharishi was on a pilgrimage when he met Satyavathi at Yamuna River Bank. He requested her service to cross the river. To grace her and charmed by her beauty, he made a request to fulfill his wish.

Satyavathi was in denial mode, stating that she needed her father’s permission and losing her virginity before marriage was not acceptable. 

Maharishi assured and blessed that her virginity would be intact and that it is the play of destiny. He knew it was an appropriate time for Narayana to ascend (Vyasa is considered an incarnation of Sriman Narayana). 

She was told about her previous birth and about the boon she had earned. To satisfy Satyavathi's need, he created an island and covered it with a fog of dark clouds to maintain privacy. Vyasa was born immediately and grew up to the age of 7. He is also called Dwaipayana.

When asked to seek a boon, Satyavathi desired to get rid of fish odour emitting from her body. Maharishi blessed her and, from then on, a pleasant smell emitted from her body that extended to one yojana (appox 12 km). She was known as Yojana Ganda.

Vyasa offered his respects to his mother and sought permission to do tapas. He assured her that he would be available whenever she sought him. He left with his father, Parasara Maharishi. 

Greatness of Parasara Maharishi

Parasara is the son of Sage Shakti and the grandson of Sage Vasishta. Once, King Kalmashapada of the Ikswaku dynasty, had a conflict with Sage Shakti at a narrow path in a thick forest. The Sage requested to give way for him, but the king denied. When the king was stubborn, the Sage cursed him to be a demon who consumed humans. In turn, the king killed the Sage and ate him. 

King Kalmashapada, instigated by Sage Viswamitra (who had vengeance with Sage Vasistha), killed the remaining 100 sons of Sage Vasishta. 

On losing all his sons, the Sage attempted to end his life but was not successful. He returned back home only to hear Vedas. He was told by his daughter in law, Adushanthi, that the fetus inside her womb was reciting it. The Sage was happy and regained his composure. The Sage nurtured his grandson, Parasara, and taught him scriptures. 

When Parasara became aware of the cause of his father's death, he decided to take revenge on demons and wipe out their race. With timely intervention of Sage Vasishta, the yagna was stopped. 

Sage Parasara then took up austerities to please Shiva. When Shiva asked the Sage to seek a boon, he said “Getting your darshan is sufficient. I do not need anything else”. Shiva understood his mind and said, “You can go to heaven and meet your father, Sage Shakti”. 

Accordingly, Sage Parsara went to Heaven to meet his father. Such was his great deed.

He guided King Janaka, and the text is considered as Parasara Geetha.

 

86. Bhagavatha - Deliverance of Demon Agha

86.Bhagavatam - Deliverance of Demon Agha 

Demon Agha is the younger brother of Baka and Putana. Seeing the joyous pastime of Srikrishna and cowherds, Agha wasn't happy and wanted to avenge Srikrishna.

He resolved to kill all the cowherds along with Srikrishna. He thought once these children are killed, it is almost like killing entire residents of Vrindavan as without progeny life would turn dead.

Demon Agha assumed the form of Boa constrictor (serpent) too big to be identified. Its length was around 8 miles, stout as a huge mountain. Its mouth was as wide as a cave opening, its lips touched the clouds, tongue as broad as road, eyes resembling a wild fire.

The cowherds wondered to see the huge figure and discussed amongst themselves whether it could be a boa constrictor. If so, it would perish in the hands of Srikrishna. Saying so, they, along with their calves, entered into the wide mouth of the serpent, clapping hands and laughing loudly.

The serpent, though real, appeared fictitious to them. Srikrishna tried to restrain His companions, but they had already entered the mouth of the serpent with their calves. 

The demon, whose main target was Srikrishna, waited until His entry. The gastric fire of the demon made the cowherds and their calves unconscious. 

Srikrishna was anxious to save those companions and as well punish the wicked demon Agha. He entered the mouth of the serpent and speedily grew in size that choked its throat. Consequently, the serpent eyes shot out, and the vital air split opened from its crown. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

 

85. Bhagavatha - Deliverance of Demon Baka

 85.Bhagavatam - Deliverance of Demon Baka 

Once, Balarama, SriKrishna, and other cowherds were grazing calves. On reaching a pond, they allowed their calves to drink water and were relaxing. They saw a demon disguised as a heron. Demon Baka was sent by Kamsa to kill SriKrishna. 

The heron, with its sharp beak, swiftly swallowed SriKrishna. The cowherds along with Balarama were shocked. SriKrishna tore its bill into two halves and killed it. The cowherds and Balarama were immensely pleased with Srikrishna’s feat.

Once Srikrishna asked cowherds to leave home early the next morning and have breakfast in the forest. Getting up early, Srikrishna signaled his companions to get ready and follow Him. 

The cowherds hurriedly freshed up and decorated themselves with beads, gems, and gold. They also wore tender leaves, bunches of flowers, and peacock features. Each of them had a set of calves to take care of. 

They allowed their calves to herd and began to play games of various sorts. Some of them threw away another's sling far away and made them run. Some played flute, blew horns, hummed in tune with bees, and some repeated cuckoo's sweet notes. 

They ran with the shadows of the flying birds, copied the steps of swans, sitting like a heron, and dancing like peacocks. 

Few others pulled the tail of monkeys, climbed trees along with them, and leaped from one branch to another. 

Still, some others dived into the river and made fun of their own reflection. Some echoed and hopped like frogs.

Even while engaged in sports, the cowherds would often look for Srikrishna, go near Him, touch Him, and feel happy and safe. Srikrishna enjoyed the Sylvan beauty of Vrindavan. 

Sri Sukamuni observed that these cowherds must have possessed rich spiritual merits in their previous births to play sport with Srikrishna.

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

84. Bhagavatha - Residents of Vraja Move to Brindavan

84.Srimad Bhagavatam - Residents of Vraja Move to Brindavan

The Lord, through his infantile sports, brought joy to the residents of Vraja. As an ordinary infant, He would even do what was ordered to Him. 

Once, a fruit vendor had come selling fruits. Taking a handful of grains, he ran to her to get some fruits. The fruit seller filled His hands with fruits even though food grains had slipped through the gap between His fingers. The fruit basket got filled with precious stones.

The elders of Vraja, headed by Nanda, were deliberating the evil portents in the recent past. They decided to move out of Vraja, particularly taking into account Krishna's safety. 

They decided to move to a forest, Brindavan. It was full of evergreen trees most suited for the bovine race. Putting the aged, infants, and articles on the carts and placing the cattle wealth ahead, they immediately move out of Vraja. Women and children wore fine dresses adorned with jewelry.  

Balarama and Srikrishna were overjoyed to see picturesque Brindavan, Govardhan Hill, and sandy banks of Yamuna River.

As years passed by, Balaram and Krishna grew and were assigned to take care of calves with a set of boundaries not far off from the cow pen.

The duo Brothers played on the flute, played like bulls, mimicked various animals, and moved around like ordinary mortals.

Once, while grazing the calves, a demon appeared disguised as a calf with the intent to attack them. Observing it, Krishna approached it from behind, seized its hind legs, revolved it, and threw it far away, killing it. The cowherds were very happy and applauded loudly. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

83. Bhagavatha - Srikrishna's Grace on Nalakubera and Manigriva

83. Srimad Bhagavatam - SriKrishna's Grace on Nalakubera and Manigriva 

SriKrishna redeems the sons of Kubera of their curse as prophesied by Sage Narada. Tied to the mortar by his beloved mother, He crawled between the two adjoined Arjuna trees. The two trees fell down with a big crash. Two celestial men, Nalakubera and Manigriva, appeared and bowed down with joined palms.

They said, “ O Lord, You are the Primordial Supreme Person. You control the body, vital airs, the ego, and indriyas. You are the time spirit and imperishable. You are the divine energy (Prakriti) consisting of three gunas, Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.

You have come down this time for the prosperity and liberation of the entire creation. Pray, both of us, the attendants of Lord Shiva, to depart. 

Let our speech henceforth be used in recounting Your excellence, our ears in hearing Your stories, our hands in doing Your work, our mind in Your thought.  

The Lord said, “It's already known to me. Sage Narada has showered his grace on you both through a curse. There is no bondage of those pious souls who possessed equanimity, fixed their mind on Me. 

Therefore, you both return to your abode. As sought, you have already realized Supreme devotion in Me, which leads to cessation of rebirth.

The two went around the Lord, who was tied to the mortar, bowed low to Him again and again, and proceeded in the northern direction.

Hearing the noise of two falling trees, the cowherds headed by Nanda came to the spot. They saw two Arjuna trees fall on the ground. They wondered whose work it was . They were alarmed to think that it was an evil portent. 

However, infants playing around there said it was done by this boy, Krishna, who had position between the trees while dragging the mortar. They also said two men came out of the trees and were conversing with Him. 

The cowherds ignored the children's words as they thought it was not possible for this boy to uproot those huge trees. Nanda set free the cord tied to Krishna. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana 

82. Bhagavatha - Sage Narada Curses Kubera's Sons

82.Srimad Bhagavatam - Sage Narada Curses Kubera's Sons

King Parikshit asks Sukhamuni “Why highly revered Sage Narada cursed Nalakubera and Manigriva? What reproachful act did they do?”.

 

Sukamuni said, “ The two sons of Kubera, despite being attendants of Lord Rudra, possessed uncontrollable passion, were fully drunk and strolling with women near river Mandakini.

The celestial Sage, who happened to pass by, saw the fully intoxicated Yakshas (demigods). The celestial nymphs who were naked hurriedly put on their clothes but sons of kubera, ignored the Sage, and remained unclothed.

Seeing the two sons of Kubera fully intoxicated and blind with pride of wealth, Sage Narada felt they needed to be rectified through a curse and to give an opportunity to correct themselves.

The Sage said, “A man with insatiable desires through wealth loses wisdom. With the pride of wealth (a product of Rajoguna), women, gambling, and liquor get associated. 

This pride of wealth makes men kill animals mercilessly. This perishable body is food to worms when buried, food if killed by carnivorous animals, or as ashes if burnt. Why perpetrate violence for the sake of pampering such a body?

To whom does this body belong? One's father? mother? employer? maternal grandfather (on adoption)? King? Purchaser?

Hence, this body is a common property that exists from Primordial matter and will again go back into it. A fool alone identifies himself with the body.

Poverty is the best solution for a wicked soul blinded with pride of wealth. He who has his foot ever pricked with a thorn alone would never allow a fellow being to suffer such pain. 

The hardship a poor man undergoes will prove to be his austerity in this life. A hungry man's body becomes feeble and desists from violence.

Hence, I shall take away their pride caused by ignorance , who are slaves of women, intoxicated and blinded with pride of wealth.

They deserve to be reduced to the state of a tree (that stands immobile, unbending, and uncovered) so that by my grace, they may not behave like that again. 

In the presence of Srikrishna at the end of a hundred celestial years, they would acquire devotion and end their curse”. Saying so, the Sage went away to the hermitage of Narayana. 

Nalkubera and Manigriva were transformed into two Arjuna trees sprung together at Vraja. Krishna crawled between the adjoined trees to make the prophecy of Sage Narada true. 

Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana