|
Chapters 13,14,14,16
Chapter 13
Ramayana
Ramayana is one of the World’s greatest epics composed
by Maharishi Valmiki consisting of twenty four thousand beautiful
resonant slokas, the delight and hope of millions of Indians. We
can give only a brief outline.
Dasaratha was the king of Ayodhya many thousands of years
ago. A great warrior, his aid was sought even by the gods in their
wars with the asuras. The king had three wives but had no children.
He thought “I am getting old and still have no sons. I must conduct
the Puthra-kameshti yagnam”. So he said to the family priest,
sage Vasishta, “Revered Sir, I desire a son to succeed me, shall I
not perform the Putra kameshti Yagam” And Sage Vasishta replied
“Since the thought has occurred to you, you will have sons, famous
in all the worlds. I shall gladly conduct the yagnam”.
So, preparations were made. Invitations were sent to all maharishis;
the king and queens entered on a fast and worship of Hari. There
was sumptuous feeding for all. At the conclusion of the yagnam
a deity emerged from the sacrificial fire carrying a golden vessel
full of delicious divine payasam (pudding) Dasaratha respectfully
received the amrit and gave it to his queens.
In due time Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Lakshmana and
Satrugna were born to Sumithra and Bharatha to Kaikeyi. No
Sk 9. Ch 10 - Slokam 4
one can describe the joy of the king and his queens. The princes
were the delight of the servants and courtiers and as they grew
up they became the darlings of all the people, so brave, so
handsome and so respectful to elders and very proficient and skilful
in all arts of war and peace. Years passed . They were all nearing
the marriageable age and now the king became anxious. He was
thinking of their marriage. Just then, the guards came running and
announced that the great sage Viswamithra was approaching.
Dasaratha hastily approached “Welcome, Welcome Great sage,
you are as welcome as the first born is to a childless woman; as
copious rain to parched earth. To what happy event do we owe
this visit. Only mention it and it will be carried out” The sage was
pleased and replied “Rajan! I expected nothing less from a
descendant of Ikshwaku and Raghu. We , the sages living in the
forest , have been conducting yagnams for the welfare of the
world. Of late, our yagnams have been defiled by evil rakshasas,
emissaries of powerful Ravana. Send your son Rama with me to
protect us from these devils, so we can conduct the yagnams in
peace” The king was thunder struck. ”This merciless sanyasi is
asking for my darling son scarcely in his teens to fight against the
blood thirsty monsters” His brows were clouded . For a moment
he hesitated and then gathering courage he firmly replied “ My
son is too young to fight with these devils. I shall myself come
with my army.” But Viswamithra was firm “I know Rama and
Vasishta also knows. If after promising to give any thing , you
renege, well , May you prosper’. Fire darted from his eyes and
Visvamithra prepared to return. Vasishta the family preceptor
realized the danger and advised, “Rajan, send Rama It is for his
own good”. The king immediately apologized and with the
permission of the queens sent not one but two sons Rama and
Lakshmana with the irate Viswamithra who was now all smiles.
The princes bade farewell to all their elders and with their weapons
followed the great Maharishi who was already a few steps ahead.
After walking in perfect silence for an hour or so they reached
the river Sarayu. Then suddenly the Maharishi turned and looking
with the utmost tenderness at the princes said, “ Rama, you must
be fatigued. Let us bathe in Sarayu.” After their dip in sacred
Sarayu, the Maharishi imparted two manthras (sacred verses) the
“Bala and Atibala” “Now hunger and thirst and weariness will
not affect you” Further the Maharishi instructed them the manthras
of various divine weapons. As the princes recited them, the deities
of those weapons presented themselves, and said “ We are at
your service. Command us”: The princes recited another manthra
at which they retired. The trio now crossed Sarayu and advanced
further. It was a dense forest, very dreary and lonely and no bird
twittered. All at once there was a booming sound and a dark
cloud appeared overhead “ O! Sir, what may this be? said the
princes “Rama and Lakshmana be ready with your bows. This is
the rakshasi, Thataka, the bane of poor sanyasis Spare her not”
By this time, she had come overhead raining rocks and huge stones.
Rama sent a quivering arrow through her heart. She fell thrashing
the ground with her hands and feet and died. Her two sons Maricha
and Subahu, now loomed overhead determined to avenge their
mother’s death. One arrow brought Subahu down; another arrow
pursued Maricha who fled and disappeared into the sea.
Viswamithra and the sages were now free to conduct their
yagnams in peace. They showered their heart-felt blessings on
the princes and small presents such as barks of trees, sacred
threads and kusa grass. These were all the things they had and
they gave their all. Just then tidings arrived of a great yagna, that
would be shortly conducted at Mithila and they all decided to attend
that.
Ahalya Moksham
The very next day, the party started. After trudging some
weary miles, their way led through a desolate looking hermitage
“Pray Sire, whose is this desolate hermitage” Viswamithra looked
grave and then added “ O! Rama! Here once lived the great
Gautama Maharishi with his chelas and Ahalya, his dharmapathni
(wife) Unfortunately, she was deceived by Indra..Gautama cursed
Indra quite fittingly but he also imposed a heavy penalty on poor
Ahalya. –“ Since you have behaved senselessly like a stone,
Become a stone” Relenting the sage added “However, when Sri
Rama comes this way, and steps on you, you will regain your real
form and glory” As the Maharishi was saying this, Sri Rama
stepped on a stone, and it at once changed into a woman who fell
on her knees and with tears burst into praises. Just then Gautama
too appeared and the pair departed for further penance
Mithila : Janaka’s Court
All roads led to Mithila where king Janaka ruled. The roads
were crowded with sages, commoners traders, peddlers, gamblers
and dancers. A great gala festival in honor of the Siva Dhanus
was going on. News reached king Janaka that the great
Viswamithra with two bright disciples was approaching. With
suitable presents and garlands and flowers king Janaka approached
“Great Maharishi! Welcome to Mithila . Kindly bless us with your
presence and pray, who are these god like disciples who are fit to
rule the world’ Viswamithra was pleased and said “The elder
one is Rama and the younger is Lakshmana; sons of King
Dasaratha of Ayodhya They would like to see the great Siva
Dhanush”
King Janaka was overjoyed. He had two peerless daughters
of marriageable age Sita and Urmila. He had made a hasty vow
that he would give Sita only to one who could bend the great Siva
Dhanush. Many suitors had tried and failed If perchance Rama
could bend the bow his prayer would be realized. The princes
and Viswamithra were lodged and entertained in a magnificent
palace.
The Siva Dhanush (Siva’s bow) kept some distance away
on a platform like contrivance on wheels , was slowly being
dragged by a team of oxen towards a great hall adorned with
flags and flowers for worship. Soldiers with drawn swords
escorted it while musicians played on various instruments and
priests intoned hymns and Sri Rudram. The bow was placed
reverently before a statue of Nataraja Siva in his famous pose of
Cosmic Dance. The walls were adorned with paintings of famous
kings of old. Into this hall Viswamithra and the princes entered.
They circumambulated the bow, worshipped Lord Siva with bowed
heads and folded hands and at a word from Viswamithra, Rama
bent down gently caressed the bow and lifted the great bow as if
he was raising a garland. Then he stringed the bow and as the
onlookers were looking with bated breath, pulled the string to his
ears. The mighty bow broke in two with a thundering roar that
reached the ends of earth. Sita who was watching from the
balcony took up the marriage garland and put it round Rama’s
neck. A mighty shout arose from the people, around and the devas
above “Jai Ram! Jai Sita! Jai Sitaram”! Words cannot describe
the joy of king Janaka and his queen. With the consent of the
astrologer and rishis Lakshmana’s marriage was arranged with
Urmila. Similarly, the marriages of Bharatha and Shatrugana with
two daughters of Janaka’s brother were also arranged. The happy
news was immediately sent to king Dasaratha by a speedy courier
for his gracious approval and consent.
Speeding like the wind the courier found king Dasaratha in
the midst of his venerable councillors and announced the happy
news. Dasaratha immediately took a priceless pearl necklace off
from his neck and presented it to the messenger. On the advice
of Vasishta orders were immediately passed for the whole court
to proceed to Mithila with the treasury, the three queens and their
attendants travelled in palanquins. Some were riding on chariots,
some on horses and some on elephants. After a few days the
party reached the outskirts of Mithila and were joyfully received
by king Janaka with purna kumbam (vessels filled with ganges
water) , pipes playing and drums beating “Pray, what are the
details of the dowry” asked Janaka with grave misgiving.
Dasaratha replied, “It is for the donors to give what they like.
The receivers cannot demand” The whole city was adorned with
flags and arches .There was feasting and singing and dancing
without end. Vedic mantras and songs were issuing from a
splendid hall; the brides and bridegrooms were seated face to face
and king Janaka said “O! Rama! Take my daughter Sita by the
hand. She will be your partner and companion in following the
path of duty and will follow you like your shadow in thick and
thin” This manthra (sacred word) by the way is repeated even
today in every Hindu marriage. The festivities continued unabated
for a week when prince Yudhajit arrived. He was Bharata’s uncle
whom Dasaratha in his haste, had forgotten to invite. But the
noble prince did not take it amiss as Dasaratha sorely repented
and more than made amends.
King Dasaratha now bade farewell to the generous hosts
and with pleasant memories and great thankfulness was returning
to Ayodhya when a dark cloud appeared ahead and ominous signs
overhead boded danger.
Parasurama
An imposing figure was approaching. He was a Brahmin
as evidenced by the sacred thread but he carried a great bow and
a fearful axe It was Parasurama, a partial Avatar of Vishnu himself.
His father, the sage Jamadagni, had been brutally beheaded by an
insolent kshatriya prince and in revenge, Parasurama was roaming
round the earth exterminating the kshatriyas and now he had come
upon the luckless wedding party. Poor Dasaratha, fell down in a
swoon crying “Pity, Pity, great Brahmin. It behoves you a Brahmin,
to show pity. My son is so young and only just married”. Moaning
like this the poor king completely swooned away. Without even
looking at Dasaratha, Parasurama turned sternly to Rama and
said “Oh! Ho! So you are Rama, who has broken the Siva Danush.
Look! Here is my Vishnu Dhanush. If you can bend it I shall
know that you are a worthy opponent and I shall grant you battle”.
Prince Rama looked stern and said “Give me your bow”. The
prince raised the proffered bow, stringed it and fitting an arrow,
drew it easily and sternly said to Parasurama “ O! Brahmin, now
show me the target I never draw an arrow in vain” Parasurama
now realized that this was Lord Vishnu himself and said gently
“You are Vishnu himself. I am not humbled by bowing to you
Release your arrow and let it consume all the merit I have
acquired” So, saying Parasurama retreated with folded hands. A
great shadow had lifted and king Dasaratha recovering asked “Has
Parasurama left?” On being assured that the redoubtable Brahmin
had left, the king heaved a sigh of relief and resumed the journey
to Ayodhya. The citizens hearing the glad news had bedecked the
city, like a bride and eagerly awaited their princes’ arrival. There
were weeks of rejoicing. The three queen mothers doted on their
daughters in law and Dasaratha in his durbar with his heroic sons
around carrying out his orders seemed like Indra in heaven holding
court with the great gods Agni, Varuna etc at his behest It
was a time of great felicity for all but alas! It was destined to be
short.
It occurred to the king that he too was getting old and that
he must relinquish everything and enter the forest for Tapas
(penance) like his ancestors. He decided to crown his eldest son
Rama as King. His councillors,Vasishta and other sages approving,
preparations were afoot for the grand coronation. Only prince
Bharata was absent, He had, gone on honey moon to his maternal
grandfather’s court at Kekeya (modern Peshawar) By chance
Manthara,(Kaikeyi s old maid servant,) ascended to the top most
terrace and was astounded at what she saw The whole city was
getting adorned with pandals (shelters) and arches. A passerby
said “Why? Haven’t you heard that Prince Rama is to be crowned
tomorrow? “ Trembling with anger as well as old age, Manthara
ran down shrieking at Kaikeyi “You are ruined! Rama is going to
be crowned tomorrow.” Instead of getting agitated, Kaikeyi was
pleased and presented a pearl necklace to Manthara. But she
threw it down in anger. Familiarity and long service made her
bold “You fool! Don’t you realize you will be only a servant or
worse of Kausalya’s hereafter? Your poor son Bharata will be
deprived of his right” Manthara raved on like this till at last poor
Kaikeyi gave in and decided to make use of the two boons
Dasaratha had formerly given to her for saving his life in a battle
field. Throwing away her ornaments she flung herself down in a
dark room. Quite unsuspecting Dasaratha entered her chambers
to announce the glad tidings . He was shocked to see the chamber
in disarray and Kaikeyi was sprawling on the floor, her hair
dishevelled and fire darting from her eyes. The King tried to pat
her but she hissed like a snake “ Fie upon you! I want the two
boons you once promised. Give me those boons now” Dasaratha
replied “By my dear son Rama whom I love more than my life, I
swear I will grant you any boon” Kaikeyi now assumed a serious
tone, “Ye Gods! Bear witness to these boons. By the first boon I
demand that my son Bharata shall be crowned King and by the
second I require that Rama be exiled to the Dandaka forest for
fourteen years”.The King fell on the floor thunderstruck. News
soon passed around that the coronation was cancelled and Rama
was exiled . Prince Rama did not flinch. Seeing his father in
pitiable condition, he gently raised him up and announced his
determination to leave for the forest at once. Princess Sita had
already packed her small kit and was resolved to follow her
husband, saying that this was her marriage vow. And Lakshmana
got ready his weapons determined to stand guard over his brother
and serve them night and day. Meanwhile, a chariot was got ready.
They bowed to the aged grieving parents promising to return.
Sumanthra the faithful charioteer now took up the reins and coaxed
the unwilling horses forward. The rebellious populace blocked
the way but Rama assured them that he would return and told
them to be loyal to Bharatha. All the women were weeping, even
birds stopped singing and amid cries of “ O! Rama! O! Sita!, O
peerless Lakshmana!.” the chariot slowly moved out of Ayodhya.
The renowned emperor Dasaratha hero of a hundred battles now
lay on the ground moaning “ O Rama, Sita, O Lakshmana” and
expired in the early hours next day.
The trio reached Sarayu, crossing it while the followers were
still asleep and pushed on into the forest, soon they came to a
clearing and decided to take some rest. A sound as if a host was
approaching was heard and their leader cried “Jai
SriRamachandra” bowing low. It was Guha the forest chieftain.
He added.“ I have heard Sri Ramchandra, that you have been
exiled, Please accept our hospitality for the full term. There is no
lack of good things in the forest” Rama was pleased and said with
great kindness “Thank you Guha, till now we were four brothers.
Hereafter it will be five. However, I can’t stay here as it is too
near Ayodhya. I will not be fulfilling the vow. I must move out”
After resting for the night they moved out escorted by Guha and
his followers and reached the bank of the Ganges. Guha ferried
them over in his boat and prayed “Oh Rama, I m ferrying you
over in this boat. Do you also, kindly help me cross the ocean of
samsara” Pushing on they met many sanyasins and finally, the
great Sage Agasthia who directed them to Panchavati. At
Panchavati (Nasik) Lakshmana constructed a Parnasala
(Asramam) where they led a delightful life. Five great banyan
trees spread a green canopy overhead. The sacred river Godavari,
has its source here. Peacocks are seen dancing gaily and whitethroated
kites circle overhead. In this idyllic background Sita’s
delight knew no bounds and they were almost grateful to Kaikeyi
for this picnic.
We shall now return to Ayodhya. Speedy messengers were
sent to Kekaya to bring Bharata and Satrugna urgently. The
journey was full of bad omens. Rushing into the palace, he enquired
“Where is my father? Kaikeyi coolly replied, “Your father has
gone to the place where all people have to go”. When all the
details were told he burst into uncontrollable anger. The funeral
obsequies were hastily performed and he announced his resolve
to fetch his brother and crown him. A great army accompanied
him and their din reached Rama’s ears. “Lakshmana, climb that
tree and see who is approaching” said Rama. Lakshamana obeyed
and explained that the Ayodhya army was approaching. He was
furious, “ To arms, To arms, dear brother! Not content with usurping
the throne, Bharata is advancing with the army to destroy us. You
please guard Sita. I want to crush the enemy single handed.”
“Patience, Patience” cried Rama. “Bharata is coming to take us
back to Ayodhya.” By this time, Bharata was a bow shot from
Rama and shouting “O! brother, brother! rushed towards Rama,
crying and blind with tears. He faltered and fell down clutching
Rama’s feet. On hearing about Dasaratha’s demise, it was now
Rama’s turn to fall. The funeral rites were hastily performed and
now Bharata came to business. “Brother, I will not return without
you” To this Rama replied “The heavens may fall, the ganges
may roll back, I cannot return!” When things had come to such a
pass Bharata had a flash “Rama step on these sandals” Rama did
so and prince Bharata reverently bearing them on his head took
leave saying to Rama “O! Rama, These sandals will rule for
fourteen years and if at the end of it I do not see you, I will
immolate myself. Rama too agreed and thus bearing the sandals
on his head and shouting “Jai Ram, Jai Sita, Victory to Ram!” the
party returned to Ayodhya . Bharata stopped at Nandigram, a
village on the outskirts of Ayodhya, installed the sandals on a royal
throne and ruled in Rama’s name.
Rama, Lakshmana and Sita were now in comparative peace
at Panchavati enjoying the idyllic beauty of the Godavari against
the backdrop of the blue mountains and thinking of the greatness
of Bharata when Surpanakha a rakshasi came there by pure
chance. She had spied them from a distance and attracted by the
magnificent beauty of Rama had come near. She introduced herself
as the sister of the powerful demon king Ravana. Her cousins,
Khara and Dushana were the governors of Dandakaranya. If he
would marry her, he would win the friendship of Ravana and they
could roam over Dandakaranya enjoying sensual bliss. Rama
demurred and seeing that Sita was the cause, the rakshasi assumed
her gigantic form and made a swoop upon Sita. But Lakshmana
ever on the alert flashed his sword and sliced off her nose and
breasts. She ran bleeding and roaring and set her cousins Khara
and Dushana against Rama. An army of fourteen thousand
ferocious bloodthirsty rakshasas set upon Rama. And then ensued
a terrible battle. Rama took his stand on a projecting promontory
and sent volleys of arrows. They were like rays of the mid day
sun. Rama seemed to be everywhere. In an hour’s space the din
of battle died. The ground was strewn with dead bodies and
vultures circled overhead. Surpanakha saw the havoc she had
done. She immediately fled to Lanka and fell like a bolt from the
blue before Ravana holding court, shrieking “Revenge! I want
Rama’s blood. Two brothers Rama and Lakshmana oh! how
gloriously handsome, have intruded into our Dandakaranya. Rama’s
wife Sita is so beautiful. I tried to kidnap her for you and this is
the result.” She pointed to her bleeding nose. Ravana’s cupidity
was roused. He threatened and coaxed Maricha to assume the
form of a golden dear and draw Rama and Lakshamana out of
the ashram so that he could kidnap Sita and bring her to Lanka.
Much against his will Maricha as a golden deer gambolled before
the ashram. Rama pursued the fleeing deer and losing patience
let fly an unerring arrow. The deer fell assuming its true form of a
rakshasa and crying “O! Lakshmana, O! Sita! Help me!”
Sita heard the cry and panic stricken cried “O! Lakshmana,
go at once and save your brother” Lakshmana protested in vain.
Sita was raving. So taking up his bow and arrows he left . Half
way up, he met Rama returning after killing Maricha. “O!
Lakshmana! Why did you leave Sita alone” cried Rama.
The moment Lakshmana left Sita, Ravana came disguised
as a sanyasin begging for alms and when Sita came out he forcibly
placed her in Pushpaka Vimanam (flying chariot) and sped towards
Lanka. Jatayu the king of Vultures trying to intercept, was cut
down.
Bereft of his Kingdom , bereft of his dear wife, Rama
bewailed his lot like any ordinary man. Lakshmana tried his best
to console him and the two together began to search. Soon they
came upon the dying Jatayu who gasped “It is Ravana who has
flown southward with Janaki. Alas! I could not save her” Blood
gushed out of his beak and he fell back dead. Embracing him
Rama grieved “Alas! How unfortunate are even loyal friends who
befriend me!”. He performed the funeral rites praying “Faithful
friend of my father! Go to the land of the faithful and enjoy the
good fruits”.
The brothers trudged through the thick forest ever watchful
with bent bows when all of a sudden they found themselves in the
clutches of a huge one eyed giant whose head was in the middle
of his body and with arms a mile long. He carried a huge spear on
which were stuck an elephant, a lion and a boar. The brothers cut
off his hands and legs but the giant would not die. He roared “O!
Rama! O! Lakshmana! I know you. I cannot be killed by weapons.
This is a boon I have won from Brahma. Bury me in a deep pit.”
The brothers did as they were told. From the grave arose the
shining form of a gandharva. He said “Once I had been to Indra’s
court and cast covetous eyes on apsaras Rambha. Indra divined
my thoughts and struck me down promising release and redemption
when I meet you , avatar of Vishnu. Janaky is taken to Lanka by
the demon Ravana. You must make friends with Sugriva who is
hiding in the forests of Kishkinda driven away by his brother Bali.
With Sugriva’s help you will recover Janaki”. So saying the
gandharva vanished.
Trekking further south, they reached the ashramam of
Matanga Maharishi. It was swept clean for years by old Sabari, a
low caste woman in the hope of meeting Rama. He granted her
moksha (the final release) As they were pushing forward along
the banks of the Pampa river, they were observed by Sugriva and
his five followers atop a distant cliff. Sugriva was suspicious and
asked his follower Sri Hanuman to go and reconnoitre. He
cautiously approached but soon threw away all caution and told
the whole story of Sugriva’s exile. Rama killed Bali and crowned
Sugriva king of all the Vanaras. In return Sugriva promised to find
Sita. A great army of monkeys marched south until they reached
the sea. Now a messenger had to be sent to Lanka and the choice
fell on Hanuman. Assuming a colossal form and muttering “Ram
! Ram!” he made a tremendous leap, overcame all obstacles and
dropped on Lanka. Again assuming a small monkey’s form
explored Lanka thoroughly; its fortifications and defense systems
and reaching Asoka vanam found Sita in the last extremity of
distress . He gently introduced himself.. He humbly presented
her Rama’s signet ring; received a token jewel from herself and
set Lanka ablaze . He made a return leap dropping before Rama
and Lakshmana with the glad news “I have seen Sita!” Rama
embraced him with tears in his eyes.
The bridge twenty miles long was ready and the monkey
army crossed over. The attack began. Many heroic acts were
done by both sides. In the end the rakshasas were annihilated.
Ravana and his son and brothers were killed, all except Vibhishana
who was pious. Lakshmana crowned him king and the monkey
army retreated with Rama and Sita to Ayodhya. It was the last
day of the exile and Hanuman was just in time to save Bharata
from immolation. Great was the jubilation in Ayodhya. The
brothers embracing each other shed tears of joy and the citizens
were delirious with joy crying “Where can we find such brotherly
love or such devotion to husband as Sita? Victory to Rama,
Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrugna, Jai Ram, Jai Ram” The
happiness of the three queen mothers can be easily imagined.
Rama with his brothers reigned for many years. It was
Rama Rajyam. No sorrow, no disease, no untimely death. Rains
were seasonal and earth was bounteous. Peace and prosperity
reigned everywhere. It is said that in the end Rama with all those
who would follow him entered the Sarayu, returning to Vaikunta,
his eternal abode.
A word of apology is due here, we have described all too
briefly the great story of Rama. To all believers it is not a story; it
is a way of life. Rama is the great exemplar of how a man should
behave as a son, as a husband, as a ruler in prosperity and dire
adversity, fully upholding the truth or dharmam (duty) even in the
most trying situations. He never said that he was an avatar.
“I consider myself only as Dasaratha’s son” But this was only to
confirm his identity with the common man. He did not want to
distance himself from others. He wanted to teach people that all
can become divine. Jai Ram! Jai Ram! Jai Sita Ram!!.
CHAPTER 14
Yayati
Much later in the line of the solar dynasty occurs the name
of Yayati. He was not the eldest son of his father, the mighty king
Nahusha. Still he was selected for his kingly qualities and as the
other sons preferred ascetic lives and had become brahmanas.
About this time Vrishaparva the descendant of Prahlada
and Bali was the king of the asuras. He had a beautiful daughter
named Sarmishta. This spirited princess along with her girl
companions was roaming in the woodlands in quest of pleasure
and adventure when they came across a broad crystal clear lake.
They decided to take a plunge in the cool waters. So divesting
their upper garments, they plunged into the water and were having
a merry time, splashing the water at one another when Lord Siva
with Parvathy was seen passing overhead. Hastily the girls swam
to the shore and put on their garments when it was seen that
Sarmishta and Devayani daughter of Sukracharya had put on
each other’s garments by mistake. The princess lost her temper
and shouted “Daughter of a beggarly brahmin! How dare you to
put on my dress” Devayani retorted “I am the daughter of the
great sage Sukracharya. Kings and devas bow down before him.
It is my father’s spiritual power that sustains your father upon his
throne” From words they came to blows and began to scratch
and pull as girls do. In her anger Sarmishta pushed over Devayani
into a deep well. And they all fled leaving Devayani in the well.
Her clothes were torn and some thorny bushes prevented her from
drowning. She shouted; getting weaker she began to moan.
By chance Yayati was out hunting and hearing a low moan
Sk 9. Ch 21 - Slokam 2
from the bottom of the well, peeped in and was surprised to see a
girl moaning. Immediately he took off his cloak and threw it down
and the kind king bent down and stretching his hand caught hold
of her uplifted hands and pulled her out. He was a gallant prince
very kind and very handsome. Devayani looked down and said
“O! King! You have saved my life. You have given your hand to
me and also a dress to wear. Deign to accept me” Yayati was in
a fix. How could a kshatriya marry a brahmin girl? But she assured
him that her father the great Sukracharya would not object.
Meanwhile Sukracharya had returned and when he heard
all that had happened he became angry and retired from the court.
Very soon things began to go awry. Bad omens multiplied. The
reason was clear. The great sage’s spiritual aura was not there.
Vrishaparva immediately ran up and prostrated before
Sukracharya. Relenting, the sage said “I shall return on one
condition. Your daughter and a hundred other maids must be sent
as servants to my daughter” In the interest of his subjects the
king agreed and so it was done. The servants and Sarmishta waited
upon Devayani. Here there was an unexpected development.
Yayati and Sarmishta also fell in love with each other. Of course
there was nothing wrong in this as kings had more than one wife
in those days. But Devayani was furious with jealousy and fled to
her father. The rishi too became unnecessarily angry and cursed
Yayati “ Since you have been a slave to passion, may old age and
weakness descend upon you at once” Suddenly Yayati found
himself old and haggard. He appealed to the old sage “By reducing
me to this condition you are depriving your daughter also of all
enjoyment” Sukracharya now relented and said “If you can
persuade one of your sons to take on this old age and give you his
own youth, you will become young again”. Yayati requested each
of his sons for this unreasonable exchange. But the youngest Puru
agreed. Yayati becoming young again lived a full sensuous life
with Devayani. However, in the end he realised the futility and
phantom like nature of all pleasures which have their origin in the
mind. And resolving with his queens’ approval, exercised an iron
control over his mind and uniting it with Brahmam once for all
attained realization. Puru who had regained his youth was made
emperor of the entire world; his brothers being governors of distant
provinces.
Sakuntalam
Dushyanta was one of the most famous successors of Puru.
Unmarried and very handsome he was out hunting. It was too late
to return and so he had to seek shelter in a hermitage. He was
received by the young disciples of Kanva Maharishi who had
gone out. There Dushyanta saw a maiden of surpassing beauty
and lost his heart entirely “Are you an apsaras or goddess. O!
beautiful one?” The maiden replied “I am Sakuntala, the daughter
of Maharishi Viswamithra and apsaras Menaka. Abandoned by
both, I was brought up by Maharishi Kanva as his daughter and
who may you be charming prince?” Dushyantha introduced himself.
It was love at first sight and they married by the Gandharva form
of marriage. Next morning Maharishi Kanva returned. His spiritual
insight told him what had happened. He entirely approved of the
marriage and blessed the pair. Dushyantha returned to his palace
promising to send for her in a befitting manner, but by a quirk of
fate entirely forgot Sakuntala. A year passed and she had given
birth to a beautiful son. Kanva Maharishi sent her with an escort
of his disciples to the king. But he had entirely forgotten his
association due to the curse of Durvasa. In this extremity the
poor lady called on her mother Menaka who suddenly appeared
and carried off her daughter. At the same time a heavenly voice
was heard “O! King! She is your lawful wife and the child is your
own heir!” The curse also lifted and Dushyanta now remembered
with anguish all that had happened. But it was too late. He
accepted his son making him his heir. The child grew up strong
and handsome with all princely qualities. This was Bharata the
famous emperor of the entire earth and this land is known as
Bharath since that time.
This story is the theme of the famous poetic drama
“Sakuntalam” acclaimed by even western critics as the greatest
romantic drama.
Rantideva
In the Bhagavatham we always find the great kings towards
the end of their reigns, giving up all pomp and power and becoming
strict sanyasins to attain moksha (final release) But Ranti Deva
gave up all power very early, embracing the life of a sanyasin.
His family also was with him and they lived on whatever they
could get. On one occasion they got a little sweetened rice and
were about to share it when a hungry brahmin appeared and
begged for food. Ranti Deva at once gave him half. The brahmin
went away satisfied and when they sat down to share the remnant
a hunter appeared and after the hunter a trader and then only
some water was left. Just then an outcaste with his famished
dogs appeared “Water! Water! “ they craved. Ranti Deva was
about to give that water when the gods (Trinity) revealed themselves
and took him and his family to higher worlds. Ranti deva is a
byword for extreme generosity. He could see god in every one.
CHAPTER 15
Sri Krishna Avataram
The old order changes yielding place to new. The mighty
Ganga when it nears the estuary breaks into a number of channels.
Even so, the great line of solar dynasty split into many lines of
minor kings and chieftains. Some claiming descent from the moon
called themselves kings of the lunar dynasty. Many had
degenerated and had become oppressors of the people. Pujas and
rituals and yagnas were stopped; the devas were starved and
appealed to Vishnu (Hari) the lord of gods and men and of all
living things and Vishnu replied “Have patience you gods. When
the time is ripe I shall descend on earth at Mathura. Meanwhile
do you all precede me and take birth as gopis and gopalas at
Brindavan in Mathura” And the devas obeyed as directed.
Ugrasena Maharaja was ruling at Mathura. A good king
but not stern enough. His son Kamsa was a great warrior but too
ambitious. He could not wait till his father retired to become king
With the help of some asuric associates he usurped the throne;
threw his father into prison and began a reign of terror and
oppression.
Kamsa had a cousin sister named Devaki of whom he was
very fond. Her marriage had been arranged with Vasudeva, a
prince of a powerful clan. At the conclusion of the grand wedding,
Devaki and Vasudeva seated in a splendid chariot were being driven
to their palace by Kamsa himself when an unseen voice from
Sk 10. Ch 3 - Slokam 9,10
above boomed “Kamsa, you fool! You are driving a couple whose
eighth son will slay you!” Kamsa at once. let go the bridle, jumped
down from the chariot and catching hold of the long tresses of the
bride, drew his sword. Even in this extremity Vasudeva kept his
cool and calmly assured Kamsa that he would present every son
as soon as it was born, to Kamsa, to be disposed of as he pleased.
Kamsa reflected. Vasudeva was known to be a man of his word.
He let go his hold and allowed them to proceed.
By the end of the year a son, bright as the morning star was
born. True to his word, Vasudeva carried the child in his arms and
laid it before Kamsa. Even Kamsa’s heart relented “ Vasudeva I
am glad you have kept your word. But I have fear only from the
eighth child, so take this child back and cherish it” Vasudeva gladly
took it back but was not too glad. The devas got alarmed. Kamsa
was softening; their plans would go awry. So they requested Sri
Narada to set matters right. The Devarishi smiled. Approaching
Kamsa he said “O! King! You may have made a mistake because
any of the eight children can be made the eighth by changing the
origin of counting.” Kamsa thanked Narada for pointing out the
error and immediately went after Vasudeva, snatched the child
from him and dashed it on a stone that was conveniently near by.
This went on six times. Six babies were brutally killed.
Devaki conceived for the seventh time hoping against hope that
this one at least would be saved somehow.
The scene now shifts to Brindavan, a pastoral village not
far from Mathura. Dairy farming was the only means of livelihood
of these sturdy people. The lush meadows, thick with green grass
were ideal grazing grounds for cattle. The village literally
overflowed with milk and curds and honey which form the basis
of wealth. Nandagopa was their prince and Yasoda was his
consort. Kamsa’s reign was becoming unbearable to good people.
Lord Vishnu decided that the time was ripe for his
avatar (descending to earth) and requested his inseparable
companion and other self Adisesha to precede him and enter the
womb of Devaki. Then, turning to Mahadevi Loka maya who
shrouds him from the gaze of the irreverent and impious he said
” Ho! Devi Mahamaya! You have also a role to play in this drama.
Remove my brother from Devaki’s womb and transplant him in
Rohini at Brindavan and yourself enter Yasodas body. Do this
and as a reward for this great service, humanity will worship you
as Durga, Kali, Maya with offerings of flowers and rice sweetened
with jaggery, and honey” Bowing low Mahamaya departed.
Next day, news spread that Devaki had aborted. Kamsa,
now knew for certain that the next would be his killer. He redoubled
the guard and put Devaki and Vasudeva in chains. Now Vishnu
himself entered Vasudeva’s body. He shone like the sun and felt
an inexplicable elation. The elation spread to Devaki also and both
felt that their misery would soon end. Kamsa was now getting
nervous and gave strict instructions to the guards to inform him as
soon as the child was born. He was having disturbing dreams
portending death. The devas with Brahma and Siva were hovering
above with garlands and flowers singing songs of praise and
welcome.
Brahma’s Hymn of Praise
Hail! Lord of the universe, Truth incarnate
Thou art the Truth three fold
True now, in the past and in the future
Like a great tree Thou art, with roots in Prakriti
The four Purusharthas thy saps; the vital airs thy extension
Hunger, thirst, sorrow, infatuation
Old age and death thy constitution
The mind, intellect, ego its branches
And Jiva and Easwara the two birds that rest
Thy feet the boat to cross Maya
Hearing your stories, listening to songs about you and serving
others is the way to your presence and release from every
affliction. Singing like this they departed.
The planets assumed favourable positions. A pleasant breeze
wafted heavenly odours. A gentle rain revived all living creatures,
moving and unmoving. Rivers rolled limpid and clear and even
thunder was muffled keeping time with the waves of the ocean.
Holy rishis chanted manthras as Devaki gave birth to her divine
son. Vasudeva saw the divine child with four arms bearing the
conch, lotus, mace and chakram, adorned already with priceless
necklaces and kaustubham, wearing a jewelled crown, lotus eyed
and smiling at the bewildered parents. He told them that this was
not the first time he was born as their son. Even in previous births
he had been their son because of their great purity and tapas. He
asked Vasudeva to carry him to Gokulam, deposit him at Yasoda’s
side, take the baby girl he would find there and bring it to Mathura.
So saying the child resumed a baby’s form. Vasudeva implicitly
followed the directions. Placing the baby in a basket he reverently
carried him on his head and stepped out.
Then wonder after wonder followed. The iron chains binding
him and Devaki had fallen apart and now the great gates flew
open. A deep sleep overpowered the guards who lay snoring. There
was mild thunder and a slight drizzle, but he was not getting wet.
Looking up he saw a great hooded serpent protecting him from
the rain. Gokulam was some seven or eight miles away and he
had to cross the great river Jamuna which was already in spate.
Not knowing what to do Vasudeva with his precious burden, just
pushed on until he reached the brink of the roaring flood. Then O!
Wonder of wonders; the roar subsided; the waters became calm
and Vasudeva was emboldened to cross. It was at first ankles
deep, then knee deep, then waist deep and there it stopped.
Vasudeva waded on and on but the river continued to be only
waist deep and the hooded serpent was covering him like a huge
umbrella over head. Reaching the other bank he continued his
journey. The glowworms lighted the path and he reached Gokulam.
Not a dog barked. He entered a well lighted house. Men were
sleeping in the open verandahs. Inside a matron was sleeping with
a newly born baby by her side. Gently removing the baby girl
Vasudeva put his own child there and regretfully traced his way
back and nobody was any wiser about this baby transfer. Returning
to Mathura in the dead of night he found the prison gates opening
automatically as before and deposited gently the baby girl by the
side of Devaki. Sorely she missed her baby son but realized that
this was all his play and fondled the baby girl as if it was her own.
The baby however began to cry so loud that the sleeping guards
awoke with a start and some of them dashed off to inform Kamsa.
Trembling with rage and fear the villain snatched the baby by its
legs and was swinging it around when slipping from his hands she
sprang into the air and assuming her own beautiful but awe inspiring
form with eight arms, carrying weapons, said in a ringing voice
“Fool, you have killed many innocents in vain. Sri Hari, your enemy
is growing up elsewhere”. So saying the Devi vanished. Kamsa
fell back abashed “Alas! What a fool I have been! Even gods tell
falsehood. Alas! My poor sister! How I have wronged you! It is
all due to fate. Kindly forgive me for my cruelty”. Kamsa’s
repentance was short lived. Back at his court, he was surrounded
by his asuric courtiers Chanura and others “The devas are cowards
who have fled from the shower of your deadly arrows. Vishnu
sometimes overcomes our leaders by mere stratagem. He derives
his strength from the oblations offered to him by some traitorous
brahmins and rishis. If we have your permission we will
exterminate these vermin”. Kamsa agreed and ordered them to
destroy Brahmins and temples. The villains obeyed with glee and
torched the places of worship and cottages even in far off
Gokulam. And one bright devil suggested “Why not we kill all
new born children I have a sister Poothana by name who will do it
with pleasure” “Agreed” roared Kamsa and Poothana started on
her deadly mission.
At Gokulam the month long rejoicings at the birth of an heir
to their chief had not yet subsided. It was as if a brilliant star had
risen. The baby was so beautiful with its lotus like eyes and ruby
lips and its complexion of a fresh rose, one could not take one’s
eyes off it. There was an endless stream of gopis (cowherd
maidens) coming to pay their respects. The lowing cows yielded
milk in greater profusion. It seemed as if Sri Lakshmi, the goddess
of plenty had descended upon the village and the simple villagers
believed that all this was due to the child. Yasoda really believed
that this was her son for she was unconscious at the time of her
delivery and knew not its sex. Nandagopa her husband had gone
to Mathura to pay the annual taxes of butter and curds. He used
this opportunity to renew his friendship with his old friend
Vasudeva. The two were great friends. The talk naturally turned
to the arrival of the new baby. “Even though you are past the
prime god has given you a fine son. Cherish him with care for the
times are bad. Return home straight before anything happens.”
Nandagopa too had an uneasy feeling of some impending danger,
so taking a hasty leave he departed.
Poothana was approaching Gokulam. Using her magic arts
she had converted herself into a handsome gopi and bearing a
golden tray with flowers entered the village with mincing steps
and humming a tune. No one dreamt of stopping her. Entering
boldly Yasoda’s open house she gazed at the enchanting baby,
hesitated for a moment, a shade passing over her face. But it
was only for a moment “I must be loyal to Kamsa or he will destroy
me”. So, steeling herself she took the sleeping child and clasped it
to her poisoned breasts. With eyes still half closed the baby began
to suck. After a few seconds she tried to free herself from the
still fiercely sucking baby but could not free herself. The rakshasi
resumed her true form, thrashing the ground with her hands and
feet fell prone on the earth like a tree uprooted , the baby still
sucking at her breast. She fell with a terrible cry whose
reverberations reached Kamsa’s frightened ears.
All the village now collected round the dead body of the
rakshasi trying to extricate the baby that was playing on the top
quite unconcerned. Very soon Nanda also arrived and together
they extricated the baby. Then they made a bonfire of the
rakshasi’s body and strangely enough, a sweet perfume spread
over the entire place. The baby had sucked out all the poison from
her system and it now burned like camphor and sandalwood. Just
because she had given milk, albeit poisoned, to the divine child
she was granted Moksha (final release) How much more must
be the reward of those who worship and offer sweet payasam to
him!
Prior to the birth of a baby to Yasoda, Rohini had given
birth to a fine son, fair as the moon, brightening the entire village
with his brilliance. He was the avatar of Adisesha, Vishnu’s support
and other self. The two babies seemed to be the foci around which
the entire village revolved. Nanda began to prepare for the naming
ceremony and just then the great astrologer saint Garga arrived.
He was the family purohit (priest) of the Vrishnis and Nanda now
requested him to conduct the ceremony. Garga agreed but cautioned
that it must be done with the utmost secrecy. Otherwise, Kamsa
would get wind of this and he would send his minions to kill the
babies. So, the naming was done with the utmost secrecy. The
elder, Rohini’s son was named “Rama” because he pleased
everyone and the younger, Yasoda’s son was named Krishna as
he attracted every one. The elder was also called Balarama, as
the baby was extraordinarily sturdy.
The gopas and gopis were simple hard working people. When
there was sunshine, they had to dry their grains or grind them into
flour, churn the curds and collect the butter, split the logs for
firewood and so on. Yasoda, Nanda’s wife, was also engaged in
these activities laying down the sleeping baby in the shade cast
by a cart that was fortuitously standing by. As Yasoda was absent
too long, the baby became restless throwing up its tiny legs. The
feet coming in contact with the cart, shattered it into a thousand
fragments. The gopis rushing to the place, took the baby in their
arms and finding it unhurt and smiling, thanked the gods for its
miraculous escape. The fragments were found to be pieces of a
dead asura’s body. The cowherd boys who were watching from a
distance assured them that Krishna had kicked the asura shattering
him to pieces. But the elders did not believe it; they thought it was
just children’s prattle.
Trinavartha
Once Yasoda was fondling her son as usual when she felt
an unusual weight. Reeling under the weight she placed the child
on the floor. Suddenly with a screaming noise a fierce whirlwind
struck the place. Columns of sand were whirling round and round
pelting everyone with sharp edged stones. Trees were pulled up
by the root and even animals were lifted and whirled around.
People ran hither and thither for shelter. It was Trinavartha,
Kamsa’s emissary, who assuming the form of a whirlwind was
sweeping the village to lift Krishna. He lifted the child and was
speeding with him to Mathura but quickly felt it was too heavy
and tried to shake him off. In vain, the asura struggled to throw
him off. The child had clasped him by the throat and he fell dead
like a mountain cleft by lightning and thunder. The storm suddenly
subsided and the gopas found Krishna playing in the debris. The
gopis could only thank the unseen gods for this miraculous escape.
The babies now began to crawl on their knees and did enough
mischief to keep all the gopies on their toes. They could not and
did not want to take their eyes off the children. Even when they
danced and played they carried him on their hips by turns and
there was great competition for this pleasure. From crawling on
their knees the children rapidly reached the next stage of toddling
and walking erect with unsteady steps. There was no end to the
fun and frolic. The gopis would make him dance offering a piece
of cake or a little butter as prize. He who was making the world
or even the universe dance, was now dancing like a puppet to the
tunes of the simple milk maids! Sometimes he would pull the calves
by their tails and enjoy a tug of war. Growing bigger Krishna
organized the boys into gangs making forays into the dairies kept
by grown up ladies. The complaint became general “Yasoda, your
boy is stealing our butter. They break the pot and drink the curds
as it pours out. Not content with this, they take the butter and
feed. the monkeys and kittens that follow them always!” Yasoda
protested “Why should my son steal butter when we have plenty
of it in our house. If you can catch him red handed I will punish
him”. The gopis murmured but they could not get angry with
Krishna. One enterprising gopi laid a ruse. She kept the doors
partly open, placed the butter pans deliberately within reach of
little Krishna and lay in wait. Sure enough, Krishna and his gang
(which included the son of the owner herself) appeared, filled
their hands and mouth with butter They were about to beat a
retreat when the owner lady pounced on little Krishna, caught
him by the hand and thus catching him reached his house shouting
“Now, Yasoda! What do you say to this?” Yasoda coming out said
“Why this is not Krishna” The gopi who was dragging Krishna,
now looked down and saw that it was her own son! Quite abashed,
she let go her son, while Krishna laughed loud from inside his
house and Yasoda frowned.
Yasoda’s Vision
As days passed, Krishna’s mischief waxed. He would
release the calves before milking time and when questioned, would
make faces. He was the beloved leader of all the boys and girls
who blithely followed him in all his pranks. On one occasion they
complained to his mother “Yasoda Ma! This Krishna has eaten
mud!” Immediately catching hold of Krishna Yasoda asked
“Krishna! Did you eat mud? All these boys and even your brother
says so” Krishna stoutly protested. “All right open your mouth”
said Yasoda holding him firmly. The child opened its little mouth
and wonder of wonders Yasoda gazed and saw the heavens and
stars; mountains and rivers; living creatures big and small and
finally her own village and herself looking into the open mouth of
another little Krishna. Yasoda fainted. Krishna relented and cast
his yoga maya over her. Slowly opening her eyes Yasoda was
once more her normal self back in this world of maya; in her own
village and she entirely forgot her experience
Krishna Is Bound To A Wooden Mortar
After setting her servants to various tasks Yasoda was
herself engaged in churning curds. She was rather a large sized
lady wearing many bangles and a girdle. As she churned, the
bangles made a jingling musical sound and at the same time little
Krishna was clasping her round the neck begging to be suckled.
Because of her intense affection milk was oozing from her breasts.
She stopped the churning and turning round, took the child in her
lap and began to suckle it. The feeding was only half over when
she heard the milk pot in the kitchen boiling over. Hastily putting
the half fed child on the floor she rushed to the kitchen. Krishna
was annoyed. Getting up, he snatched the churning rod and broke
the pot. flooding the room with curd and butter. The ever ready
kittens and monkeys were lapping up happily. Not content with
this mischief Krishna collected some butter in his little hands; went
to an adjoining room and sitting on an upturned wooden mortar,
was throwing bits of butter to the crows and squirrels. Yasoda
returning from the kitchen, observed all the mischief. The mother
smiled but pretended to be angry and taking up a cane caught hold
of the little rogue threatening to chastise him; but the child now
began to sob. Tears rolled down his cheeks and Yasoda found it
hard to keep up her pretension of anger. But the child had to be
punished some how. She took up the rope used for churning and
began to bind Krishna to the wooden mortar. But winding round
and round she found it two inches short. So she attached another
piece of rope but that too proved two inches too short. This went
on for some time. Always it was two inches short. Some other
Gopis who had gathered round to witness the tamasha began to
laugh. Poor Yasoda was getting tired trying to bind the infinite.
The Lord, now took pity on his mother and allowed himself to be
bound, teaching the world that he can be bound only by love
Leaving Krishna like that, Yasoda went back to her work.
Liberation Of Nalakubera And Manigriva
Out in the compound stood two giant Arjuna Trees like
twins. The child crawling on all fours and dragging the wooden
mortar behind slowly worked his way through the cleft. The mortar
turned crosswise and got stuck between the trees. Krishna tugged,
the trees began to shiver and with a mighty prolonged roar, fell
prone flat and two shining celestials materialized with folded hands
and bent heads. They began to sing
“O! Krishna, Maha yogin Vasudeva
You have created all this manifest and unmanifest
They are thy body; Thou art time eternal
Thou alone art Prakriti and its gunas
Budhi, ego, mind, senses thy modifications
None by itself can comprehend the whole
Even as clouds caused by the sun, hide him
Thou art the supreme Lord, now manifest
For the prosperity of all the world. Salutations!
Singing thus they departed to their world.
Their Previous History
These gandharvas were the sons of Kubera, guardian of all
the wealth. Intoxicated by wealth, they had become blind to
decency and all the ills that this body is heir to . Wild with drink
and accompanied by their women folk they had plunged into holy
ganges Casting off their clothes they were disporting themselves
like elephants when Devarishi Sri Narada passed that way. Seeing
the sage from a distance, the ladies immediately snatched their
garments and clothed themselves; but not so the two gandharvas.
The great sage did not become angry. He was rather sad to see
the effect of wealth
Alas! Whose is this body?
Is it the Father’s or Mother’s?
Does it belong to, the worms or to fire
Wealth makes him vain and
Cruel to fellow creatures and
Thoughtless to their sufferings, for such,
Poverty is the all powerful panacea.
So, I shall deprive them of all their wealth
Let them be trees and when
They come in contact with Lord Krishna
Will regain their form and wisdom.
To fulfill the Rishi’s words the Lord had
To play this part.
Trek To Brindavan
Hearing the sound of the falling trees the gopas rushed to
the place and were relieved to find the child unhurt. Some stray
cowherd boys who had witnessed all this told them that the trees
fell because Krishna had tugged at the rope and further two
resplendent celestials appeared and worshipped Krishna. But the
elders dismissed all this and thought it was only children’s prattle.
Days passed. Rama and Krishna played with boys of their own
age. The gopi girls were mischievous. They would tauntingly say
“Krishna, you cannot dance”. Krishna would protest and begin to
dance, throwing his arms about like a marionette. “Krishna! You
cannot lift this stone”. Krishna would again protest and lift the
stone with great apparent effort and even walk a few steps, to the
great merriment of the girls— demonstrating that the Lord will do
anything for a devotee, even dancing to their tune.
Krishna And The Old Fruit Vendor
An old woman, a fruit seller, was one day trying to sell
fruits without much success. It was evening and she was tired.
“Apples, Apples, Mangoes, Grapes!” she cried but no one wanted
any. The child Krishna observed it and called “Hey! Mother!
Give me some fruits!” The tired old woman immediately put down
her basket and filled the child’s palm with fruits. In return she
had to be paid some grain. Asking her to wait the child went in
filled his palms with grain and returned but the grains had spilled
and only a few grains were left. But the child innocently placed it
in her basket. The old woman smiled at the child’s innocence and
its good nature and filled its palms with the choicest fruits. There
was no more hawking. When, after returning to her cottage she
opened the basket. O! Wonder of wonders! It was filled with the
costliest pearls and diamonds!
In spite of these miracles the elders were getting anxious.
“Our village is becoming the target of evil spirits. First it was
Poothana; then the whirlwind and fire; and now the arjuna trees.
All along the Lord has saved us. We must not ignore these warnings
or tempt fortune further . Let us move to a safer place. Brindavan
is a safer place and the location too is good. The river Yamuna is
nearby. There are broad meadows and hill slopes lush with grass
to feed our herds”. All the gopas agreed and the trek began.
The stalwarts with bows and arrows marched in front; with
trumpets and bugles and flutes others followed, and they were
followed by the aged and the infirm and the womenfolk and Yasoda
and Rohini in chariots came last. Reaching an open space they
pitched their tents in a half moon. The cowherds were delighted
at the delightful prospects all around and settled down to their
usual occupation of grazing the cows and milking while the happy
children ranged farther with their slings and pipes. They played
with the calves, wrestled with the older ones; bellowed like bulls
or imitated the larks. They grimaced at the monkeys and raced
with the birds. Days passed in this delightful manner. Rama and
Krishna were growing firmer and stronger every day when one
day an asura disguised as a bull calf entered the fold. Krishna, at
once, detected him and catching hold of the pseudo calf’s hind
legs and tail, whirled him round and round until he died gasping
and then threw him up so high that when he fell, he hit a kapitha
tree shedding all its fruits.
Bakasura The Crane
Bakasura, another ally of Kamsa assuming the shape of a
huge crane was sitting atop a cliff as if he was another cliff. The
cowherd boys threw stones at him out of curiosity but disregarding
all of them, he came straight to Krishna and gobbled him up. The
children were stunned and gazed in speechless surprise. The Asura
felt as if he had swallowed a chunk of burning coal and coughed it
out. Springing up quite unhurt Krishna caught the bird by its beak
and tore it asunder as if it was a blade of grass and that was the
end of Bakasura.
As the boys narrated the events of the day to the elders in the
evening, they wondered. Said Nanda, “What the great sage Garga
said is coming true. So many evil spirits have come and they have
all been destroyed. Surely, this child is divine!”
The Salvation of Aghasura
One day, the cowherd boys decided to have a grand buffet
dinner in the green lawns inside the forest. They rose early and
gathering the victuals from their mothers and taking their bugles
and flutes and with Krishna in their midst, left with their herds for
the forest. As if the gold ornaments were not enough they had
adorned themselves with garlands of wild flowers. Sticking
feathers in their head gear they danced with the peacocks, raced
with the shadows of over flying swans, mimicked the birds, pulled
the monkeys by their tails, shouted at the cave mouths mocking
the echoes. The Lord of the universe inaccessible to even yogis
thus rollicked freely with these simple cowherd boys. Who can
fathom the merit that must have been earned by these high souled
cowherd boys?
Impatient at the felicity of these simple cowherd boys
Aghasura ,brother of Poothana and Kamsa’s friend decided to
take revenge He assumed the form of a python and lay across
their path quite motionless. It was so huge, many miles long, Its
upper jaw was touching the clouds and lower jaw grazing the earth.
The presence of Krishna had made the cowherd boys fearless
and fool hardy . Clapping their hands they entered the cavernous
jaws with their flocks. Krishna who was closely watching also
entered the jaws. The devas above, trembled while the demons
rejoiced. The python snapped its jaws sure of its prey. Krishna
the great yogi suddenly enlarged himself effectively throttling the
python. Its eyes began to roll, its tail lashed about, its head dashed
on the ground and it died. The boys with their flock trooped out
hysterically singing the praises of their saviour and were astonished
to see a trail of light in the sky slowly moving down and entering
Krishna’s body. Thus even Aghasura who came to kill was saved
by the Lord. How much more will he be willing to save those
who are good !
This incident was narrated by the cowherd boys to their
elders, one year after its occurrence. Parikshit knew that this too
was due to the Lord’s Maya, yet to make sure, he requested Suka
to clear this apparent mystery. Suka Maharishi replied “Your
question is quite appropriate, for devout people, discussion about
divine stories is ever pleasant even as vain talk about women is
pleasing to libertines. I shall reveal to you what happened for
there is no secret that one may withhold from devoted disciples.”
After rescuing the children from the python, they reached
the river banks and prepared for dinner with the victuals they had
brought. They sat in a circle with Krishna at the centre. Every
one wanted to see Krishna face to face and the wonder was that
they were all facing him! They looked like lotus petals with the
pericarp at the centre. They offered each other and Krishna the
delicacies their mothers had made for them; cracked innocent jokes
laughing and making others laugh. It was a sight for the gods to
see!
Standing at the centre with flute and horn
Stuck in the girdle, facing all at once
With balls of rice and curds and pickles
Stuck in different fingers the Lord stood
And heavenly hordes from above gazed in wonder.
He who partakes all sacrifices.
The Lord! He dined!
One day as usual Krishna left for the woods early morning
with his friends and all their flocks of calves. While Krishna and
his friends reclined in an open space the calves penetrated deep
into the forest. The boys became anxious for their calves and
Krishna, though he had only half finished his meal, offered to go
and bring them back. Krishna followed their track but could not
find them anywhere. He returned to the base camp but the boys
too had vanished. At once, the all knowing Lord knew that Brahma
was the cause of all this mischief.
He immediately created or rather himself became all the
calves with their different skins and marks and became the
cowherd lads with their bugles and slings and returned in the
evening to the village creating the usual hubbub and noise. Each
calf entered into its own shed. The cows licked them with greater
affection, the udders oozing milk. The cowherd boys were
embraced by their mothers with unusual overflowing affection.
And they all left for grazing next day and every day after that, as
if nothing had happened. Only difference, was the inexplicable,
inordinate affection the gopis felt for their children who were all
Krishnas now.
One day the Krishna calves were grazing nearby while their
mother cows were grazing at the top of a hill. Suddenly the cows
became mad with uncontrollable affection for the Krishna calves
and bellowing loud and with tails raised they galloped towards
their calves overturning the gopas who vainly tried to control them.
They were very much annoyed and ashamed at their inability to
control these usually gentle creatures. It was almost one year
now and Rama became suspicious. Why should the gopis show
such extraordinary affection towards their sons and the cows to
their calves. Soon he divined the truth. Brahma came to see the
result of his handiwork. He was dismayed to see the little children
as little Krishnas with garlands and peacock feathers and the calves
too were little Krishnas. His egoism gone; he bowed with all his
four heads in all directions again and again. Wherever he looked
he saw only Krishna and looking farther, he saw different spheres
(world systems) emanating from Krishna’s body and hurtling
through space and other Brahmas presiding. Utterly confused he
fell prostrate and his diadems kissing the feet of the Lord before
him broke into a song.
Brahma’s Vision
I bow to thee Lord, thy body is of condensed light
With thy garlands, flute and wand
These you have assumed for your devotees
And to bless me too by removing all pride and ego
Vast learning and penance are riddled with needless pain
Most effective are the ways of these simple gopis
And they are pleasant too
I am but a spark of that mighty flame thou art
Pardon me my pride. Even as a mother
Pardons the kicks of her unborn babe.
Narayana thou art the soul and support
Of all beings. I am so feeble and thou so great
Through thine every pore swarm forth spheres
Each as big or bigger than this earth
Our reason fails; but we can feel that
You are beyond reason, you are too real
Now permit me to retire Lord and May this
scene I saw today give me strength
And power to do your work.
Parikshit’s Doubt
The king now asked Sri Suka “O! Maharshi! How is it that
everyone felt such great love for Krishna? Even more than they
felt for their own children?”. The Rishi replied “O! Rajan! To
every one his own soul is dearer than anything else. Krishna is
the universal soul and that is why he is dearest to everyone though
they do not know the real reason because of the Lord’s Maya. If
crossing the Maya, one realizes the Truth that He is everything
and everywhere then this samsara ( transient world) is easily
crossed. He who reads this story of Krishna will attain all
purposes of life“
CHAPTER 16
ÓeÓe}èe çeen¼ne²[Neëe: f}eÓeen Neº¡ es =e§etNtNtNeÓe©úúÓeen çeÑá©ççee½eúeμμeÓeen >
¼eeÑèeejëeÞÓeen,n, úef×ef§e: úeμex çeonnNeïÞoeNeÞex
çe²©ëeμeÓerNe èeéàÓe: ©>>
The Death of Dhenuka
As they were past the sixth year Rama and Krishna were
entrusted with the grazing of the bigger cows. The lawns and hill
slopes and forests were in full bloom. A cool breeze, fragrant
with the scent of the blooming lotus flowers in the ponds fanned
their cheeks. A veritable paradise was this Brindavan. Krishna
said “O! Brother, these trees laden with fruits bend before you in
obeisance and the waving branches beckon you to their shade.
The larks are singing your praise and look at the deer! Are they
not looking at you with the eyes of gopis in adoration! Surely these
cuckoos that sing your praises must be sages born again because
they wanted to be here to adore you. The very grass you tread is
thicker.”
Thus Krishna moved about among the trees which bloomed
afresh in his presence
Cracking jokes, laughing and making others laugh
Sudama and other gopas, all his bosom friends
Cried “Krishna! O! Krishna! Inhale this smell
How Sweet! It is from the palm trees yonder
We yearn to taste its fruits but dare not go near
Dhenuka, the cannibal guards it. How sweet are the fruits!
Rama laughed loud and entering the grove
Shook the trees with such force
Sk10. Ch 15 - Slokam 1
The sweet fruits fell in showers covering the ground
The gopas had their fill; their eyes beamed
But Dhenuka the ass came galloping
And like the ass he was, reared on his haunches
to strike at them. But Balarama caught him
by the legs and whirling him fast and faster
threw him at the tree which broke
And that hit another palm and that another
Covering the entire ground with honeyed fruits
The happy gopas had their fill and
Thanked Rama and Krishna all the more
The cows and calves now grazed in peace
And as night approached they returned to the village
Anointed themselves with unguents and oils
Had their bath and a sumptuous meal
and rested for the night.
Early next morning Krishna rose and bathed
And performed the morning rites and
With the flocks and without Balarama
Went out to the river bank.
Kaliya Mardanam
A black serpent of gigantic size, named Kaliya had taken
up its residence in a cavern at the bottom of river Yamuna. It had
poisoned the water and the black fumes curling up withered the
leaves of a kadamba tree on the bank. No fish could live in that
poisoned water and even birds flying overhead, died and fell. The
cows drinking the water were stretched dead on the bank and
even the gopas who had unwittingly entered the water were lying
unconscious practically dead. Krishna, reaching the banks alone,
took in the situation at a glance. Girding up his clothes he mounted
the withered kadamba tree. It sprouted at his touch and the cows
and gopas too revived as his life giving glance fell on them.
Then taking a mighty leap he plunged
The waters sprayed and overflowed the banks
A hundred feet and closed over his devoted head
The gopas and cows stared distraught
Hot tears flowing down their cheeks
But they knew not the power of his mighty arms
Or his yogic powers. For a moment he wrestled
The deadly serpent tightened his coils
But the Lord in a trice shrunk himself
And the coils slipped and like the full moon
He emerged and began to dance
And what a dance! The celestials
With pipe and drum were dancing overhead
With his hoods all dripping poison
Kaliya wriggled and tried to bite
But ere it could bite, Krishna’s foot was down
The serpent hissed and raised another hood
Again Krishna’s foot was down and the
Waters glowed with rainbow colours
His anger and spite, thus trampled out
Kaliya began to pray with his numerous wives and kin,
around.
The Women’s Prayer
Mercy O! Lord! Mercy
This wicked lord of ours has
but got his deserts. It is his nature
Serpents are cruel and angry by nature
And You are the lord of nature.
Are you not merciful It behoves you
to forgive the sins. And we, the wives
and these the children have done no wrong.
Save us from widow hood, kind Lord and
Let the serpent live.
Krishna stopped his dance and relieved from the terrific
trampling the serpent said:
“Lord! Pardon, Pardon
We are but creatures of darkness
Nature has made us cruel and vengeful
And you, the Lord of nature, have made us all
Pardon or destroy us all as you will.
Willingly, we accept whatever you ordain.
Krishna said, “ Leave these waters and go to the island
Ramanaka and live in peace. Garuda will not trouble you there.
The waters of Yamuna will be pure and nectar like to cows and
cowherds and all good people who may be coming in future. And
you must promise one thing more. He who reads this with faith
should be free from snake bite in future”. The serpent promised
and left.
Previous Story Of Kaliya
Kaliya with other serpents used to live in the island of
Ramanaka. All the serpents used to make presents and sacrifices
to Garuda (Lord’s mount) to get immunity from his attack. But
Kaliya proud of his strength, alone resisted. He even dared to
misappropriate the presents made by the other serpents. A fight
ensued and Kaliya had to flee. Luckily there was a cavern in the
yamuna immune to Garuda’s attack. This immunity was obtained
in the following manner. Garuda used to attack and eat all the
fish whenever he could find them. In despair they appealed to
sage Sabari whose ashram was on the banks of Yamuna. The
sage out of his mercy placed an interdict “Who ever catches the
fish in the cavern will perish. My curse is true, it will stand.” So
Garuda would not go near that cavern any more. Taking advantage
of this interdict, Kaliya made it his habitat until he was sent back
to Ramanaka.
The Summer Season — Pralamba’s Attack
Balarama was a silent witness of Krishna’s exploits. He
was not too excited as he knew Krishna’s powers. The gopas
and gopis were actually incarnations of devas and devis but they
137
were not aware of Krishna’s true nature. Carrying him shoulder
high they brought him to the village amid great rejoicings. It was
summer; the sun was high but because of the trees and luxuriant
foliage it looked like spring. A cool breeze laden with the scent of
opening water lilies and lotuses took away the heat and birds of
many hues flitting hither and thither among the tree tops seemed
to sing hymns in praise of their Maker. Next morning after the
day’s ablutions the boys headed by Krishna and Balarama again
entered the forest. They were in a playful mood. Dividing
themselves in batches they played many ingenious games such as
the blind men’s buff or catch the thief or wrestling matches at
which most of them were experts. The vanquished should carry
the victor on his shoulders and set him down at the foot of a huge
banyan tree. There were two parties, one led by Balarama and
the other by Krishna. The demon Pralamba had entered the group
unnoticed in the shape of a cowherd boy. He easily allowed
himself to be defeated by Balarama and had to carry Balarama
on his shoulders. Krishna was defeated by Sudama and Krishna
gladly bore him on his shoulders. The demon’s plan was to run
away with Balrama out of Brindavan altogether. Krishna had
earlier pointed out to Balrama and he was prepared. The Asura
carrying Balarama ran beyond the tree and assuming his real form,
rose in the air. Balarama tightened his grip on the Asura’s throat.
His eyes began to bulge. Balarama gave him such a fierce knock.
He fell vomiting blood. The gopas who had come rushing to help,
lifted Balarama on their shoulders and returned singing his praises.
Saved From The Forest Fire
As the cowherds were gradually recovering from this
confusion, the cows had strayed deeper into the forest. Krishna
then played on his flute and the cows responded by bellowing.
Somehow the gopas rejoined their flock but another fearful disaster
faced them. Due to the extreme heat the tall grass had caught
fire. It spread rapidly enveloping the gopas and their flock. In
this dire calamity the gopas could only pray. “Save us your
dependents Lord! Otherwise we perish!” Krishna told them to
close their eyes. They did so and Krishna the great yogi, drank
the forest fire. “Now open your eyes” said Krishna. They did so
and lo! the fire had gone. The gopas were astounded at this
miracle and said “It is certain that Krishna and Balarama are gods!
And they returned to the village dancing to the enthralling music
issuing from the flutes.
The Rainy Season
After the intense summer, the rainy season set in. The sky
was suddenly overcast with dark bluish clouds interspersed with
lightning even as Brahmam is covered by the gunas of
prakriti.Whatever water they had collected during eight months
of heat the clouds now released at the proper time for the benefit
of the people.The great clouds lashed by the wind released their
water to the delight of all people as the king releases the taxes
collected for the benefit of subjects. Just as person who had
become lean after great austerities becomes plump again when
they are over, the earth again became soft and fertile after the
rains. As the glowworms shine in cloudy nights clouding the stars
even so false philosophies raise their head obscuring godly faith in
this age of Kali. Hearing the music of the rain, frogs began their
rhythmic croak even as the disciples do when the Acharya has
ended his lesson.
The little streams till now unnoticed, now overflowed their
banks cluttered with rubbish even as the wealth of a foolish man
in prosperous times. The ground covered with green grass and
flowers of various hues resembled the attire of men in prosperity.
The rich harvest brought pleasure to the poor farmers and anxiety
about their disposal to the rich. All the creatures on land and
water wore a festive appearance as devotees do while adoring
the Lord. As the rivers entered the sea they became agitated
with waves as novices entering Tapas are agitated by turbulent
feelings.The mountains though battered by the rains were
motionless and unaffected even as those good people whose
attention is fixed on the Lord are not affected even when
surrounded and attacked by misfortunes. The pathways, covered
by weeds and grass became indistinct even as the Vedas became
unclear through neglect and lack of study in course of time. The
lightning deserted those great benefactors, the clouds just as
unfaithful women desert even good husbands . Just as the stringless
rainbow manifests in the sky the Lord without attributes manifests
in the world of attributes.
The moon is hidden by the clouds which are revealed by
the moon’s light only and similarly the Atman is hidden by the ‘I’
sense which can be revealed by Atman’s light alone. As peacocks
suffering from drought dance with delight at the sight of clouds
portending rain so too householders suffering from the miseries of
the world, rejoice at the coming of the saints bringing the word of
God Drinking water through their feet (roots) the parched trees
sprouted shoots and flowers just as the ascetics who had become
thin and famished during Tapas, again became full and prosperous
through service to the Lord. Though the waters were disturbed
and receding in summer, the water birds continued to stay due to
their greed for fish just as, unmindful of their misfortunes worldly
people still persist in their luckless acts.
The torrential rains washed away the banks and bunds just
as the vedic rules and laws are broken by atheists and unbelievers.
Driven by the wind the clouds released the rain for people’s benefit
as kings release the taxes for their subjects , guided by the advice
of sages.
In this rainy season the forests were full of heavily laden
palm trees and rose apples . Krishna, Balarama and cowherd
boys entered it with intent to play. The cows with heavy udders,
moving slowly, quickened their pace, hearing Krishna’s flute. The
forest dwellers too were happy; the trees gave them all they
wanted and there were many cosy caves around. Entering them
they put the curd rice and pickles on leaf plates, spread on dry
slabs and dined to their hearts content; the cows lying a little away
chewing the cud.
Thus ended the rainy season.
Autumn
The Autumn season now dawned with clear skies and a
mild wind. The lotus bloomed everywhere in ponds whose waters
were crystal clear again, like the minds of yogis practicing yoga.
The earth was free of mud and vegetation and became pure and
more green as devotion to Krishna purifies the mind. Deprived of
water the clouds shone in white brilliance like the minds of sages
who have shed the three sins of longing for wealth, sons and
felicities. The creatures of the deep were unaware of the gradual
drying up of water even as family men are unconscious of their
life span decreasing day-by-day. Slowly the ground gave up its
moisture and the leafy bowers their greenery as wise men give up
their egoism in perishing things.
The ocean became calm as autumn advanced as a wise
man becomes calm when he advances in spirituality. The farmers
put up bunds in fields to prevent water flowing away as yogis
conserve their energy by preventing them from flowing out in
vain.The heat of the autumn sun was removed by the cool rays of
the moon just as pride in the physical beauty was removed by
Krishna. The starlit cloudless sky shone at night as the satvic mind
is illuminated by the words of the Vedas. In the broad expanse of
the sky the moon shone attended by the stars even as Krishna
encircled by the vrishnis (cowherds) shone on earth.
The forest breeze brought relief to the gopas but not to the
gopis whose hearts were stolen by Krishna. All flowers like the
lotus raised their heads when the sun rose except the lily, which
blooms only with the moon, just as all the subjects are happy when
a good king rules except the thieves.
With a bumper harvest, villages and towns hummed with
festivities more joyous than usual because of the presence of Rama
and Krishna.
Ramayana
Ramayana is one of the World’s greatest epics composed
by Maharishi Valmiki consisting of twenty four thousand beautiful
resonant slokas, the delight and hope of millions of Indians. We
can give only a brief outline.
Dasaratha was the king of Ayodhya many thousands of years
ago. A great warrior, his aid was sought even by the gods in their
wars with the asuras. The king had three wives but had no children.
He thought “I am getting old and still have no sons. I must conduct
the Puthra-kameshti yagnam”. So he said to the family priest,
sage Vasishta, “Revered Sir, I desire a son to succeed me, shall I
not perform the Putra kameshti Yagam” And Sage Vasishta replied
“Since the thought has occurred to you, you will have sons, famous
in all the worlds. I shall gladly conduct the yagnam”.
So, preparations were made. Invitations were sent to all maharishis;
the king and queens entered on a fast and worship of Hari. There
was sumptuous feeding for all. At the conclusion of the yagnam
a deity emerged from the sacrificial fire carrying a golden vessel
full of delicious divine payasam (pudding) Dasaratha respectfully
received the amrit and gave it to his queens.
In due time Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Lakshmana and
Satrugna were born to Sumithra and Bharatha to Kaikeyi. No
Sk 9. Ch 10 - Slokam 4
one can describe the joy of the king and his queens. The princes
were the delight of the servants and courtiers and as they grew
up they became the darlings of all the people, so brave, so
handsome and so respectful to elders and very proficient and skilful
in all arts of war and peace. Years passed . They were all nearing
the marriageable age and now the king became anxious. He was
thinking of their marriage. Just then, the guards came running and
announced that the great sage Viswamithra was approaching.
Dasaratha hastily approached “Welcome, Welcome Great sage,
you are as welcome as the first born is to a childless woman; as
copious rain to parched earth. To what happy event do we owe
this visit. Only mention it and it will be carried out” The sage was
pleased and replied “Rajan! I expected nothing less from a
descendant of Ikshwaku and Raghu. We , the sages living in the
forest , have been conducting yagnams for the welfare of the
world. Of late, our yagnams have been defiled by evil rakshasas,
emissaries of powerful Ravana. Send your son Rama with me to
protect us from these devils, so we can conduct the yagnams in
peace” The king was thunder struck. ”This merciless sanyasi is
asking for my darling son scarcely in his teens to fight against the
blood thirsty monsters” His brows were clouded . For a moment
he hesitated and then gathering courage he firmly replied “ My
son is too young to fight with these devils. I shall myself come
with my army.” But Viswamithra was firm “I know Rama and
Vasishta also knows. If after promising to give any thing , you
renege, well , May you prosper’. Fire darted from his eyes and
Visvamithra prepared to return. Vasishta the family preceptor
realized the danger and advised, “Rajan, send Rama It is for his
own good”. The king immediately apologized and with the
permission of the queens sent not one but two sons Rama and
Lakshmana with the irate Viswamithra who was now all smiles.
The princes bade farewell to all their elders and with their weapons
followed the great Maharishi who was already a few steps ahead.
After walking in perfect silence for an hour or so they reached
the river Sarayu. Then suddenly the Maharishi turned and looking
with the utmost tenderness at the princes said, “ Rama, you must
be fatigued. Let us bathe in Sarayu.” After their dip in sacred
Sarayu, the Maharishi imparted two manthras (sacred verses) the
“Bala and Atibala” “Now hunger and thirst and weariness will
not affect you” Further the Maharishi instructed them the manthras
of various divine weapons. As the princes recited them, the deities
of those weapons presented themselves, and said “ We are at
your service. Command us”: The princes recited another manthra
at which they retired. The trio now crossed Sarayu and advanced
further. It was a dense forest, very dreary and lonely and no bird
twittered. All at once there was a booming sound and a dark
cloud appeared overhead “ O! Sir, what may this be? said the
princes “Rama and Lakshmana be ready with your bows. This is
the rakshasi, Thataka, the bane of poor sanyasis Spare her not”
By this time, she had come overhead raining rocks and huge stones.
Rama sent a quivering arrow through her heart. She fell thrashing
the ground with her hands and feet and died. Her two sons Maricha
and Subahu, now loomed overhead determined to avenge their
mother’s death. One arrow brought Subahu down; another arrow
pursued Maricha who fled and disappeared into the sea.
Viswamithra and the sages were now free to conduct their
yagnams in peace. They showered their heart-felt blessings on
the princes and small presents such as barks of trees, sacred
threads and kusa grass. These were all the things they had and
they gave their all. Just then tidings arrived of a great yagna, that
would be shortly conducted at Mithila and they all decided to attend
that.
Ahalya Moksham
The very next day, the party started. After trudging some
weary miles, their way led through a desolate looking hermitage
“Pray Sire, whose is this desolate hermitage” Viswamithra looked
grave and then added “ O! Rama! Here once lived the great
Gautama Maharishi with his chelas and Ahalya, his dharmapathni
(wife) Unfortunately, she was deceived by Indra..Gautama cursed
Indra quite fittingly but he also imposed a heavy penalty on poor
Ahalya. –“ Since you have behaved senselessly like a stone,
Become a stone” Relenting the sage added “However, when Sri
Rama comes this way, and steps on you, you will regain your real
form and glory” As the Maharishi was saying this, Sri Rama
stepped on a stone, and it at once changed into a woman who fell
on her knees and with tears burst into praises. Just then Gautama
too appeared and the pair departed for further penance
Mithila : Janaka’s Court
All roads led to Mithila where king Janaka ruled. The roads
were crowded with sages, commoners traders, peddlers, gamblers
and dancers. A great gala festival in honor of the Siva Dhanus
was going on. News reached king Janaka that the great
Viswamithra with two bright disciples was approaching. With
suitable presents and garlands and flowers king Janaka approached
“Great Maharishi! Welcome to Mithila . Kindly bless us with your
presence and pray, who are these god like disciples who are fit to
rule the world’ Viswamithra was pleased and said “The elder
one is Rama and the younger is Lakshmana; sons of King
Dasaratha of Ayodhya They would like to see the great Siva
Dhanush”
King Janaka was overjoyed. He had two peerless daughters
of marriageable age Sita and Urmila. He had made a hasty vow
that he would give Sita only to one who could bend the great Siva
Dhanush. Many suitors had tried and failed If perchance Rama
could bend the bow his prayer would be realized. The princes
and Viswamithra were lodged and entertained in a magnificent
palace.
The Siva Dhanush (Siva’s bow) kept some distance away
on a platform like contrivance on wheels , was slowly being
dragged by a team of oxen towards a great hall adorned with
flags and flowers for worship. Soldiers with drawn swords
escorted it while musicians played on various instruments and
priests intoned hymns and Sri Rudram. The bow was placed
reverently before a statue of Nataraja Siva in his famous pose of
Cosmic Dance. The walls were adorned with paintings of famous
kings of old. Into this hall Viswamithra and the princes entered.
They circumambulated the bow, worshipped Lord Siva with bowed
heads and folded hands and at a word from Viswamithra, Rama
bent down gently caressed the bow and lifted the great bow as if
he was raising a garland. Then he stringed the bow and as the
onlookers were looking with bated breath, pulled the string to his
ears. The mighty bow broke in two with a thundering roar that
reached the ends of earth. Sita who was watching from the
balcony took up the marriage garland and put it round Rama’s
neck. A mighty shout arose from the people, around and the devas
above “Jai Ram! Jai Sita! Jai Sitaram”! Words cannot describe
the joy of king Janaka and his queen. With the consent of the
astrologer and rishis Lakshmana’s marriage was arranged with
Urmila. Similarly, the marriages of Bharatha and Shatrugana with
two daughters of Janaka’s brother were also arranged. The happy
news was immediately sent to king Dasaratha by a speedy courier
for his gracious approval and consent.
Speeding like the wind the courier found king Dasaratha in
the midst of his venerable councillors and announced the happy
news. Dasaratha immediately took a priceless pearl necklace off
from his neck and presented it to the messenger. On the advice
of Vasishta orders were immediately passed for the whole court
to proceed to Mithila with the treasury, the three queens and their
attendants travelled in palanquins. Some were riding on chariots,
some on horses and some on elephants. After a few days the
party reached the outskirts of Mithila and were joyfully received
by king Janaka with purna kumbam (vessels filled with ganges
water) , pipes playing and drums beating “Pray, what are the
details of the dowry” asked Janaka with grave misgiving.
Dasaratha replied, “It is for the donors to give what they like.
The receivers cannot demand” The whole city was adorned with
flags and arches .There was feasting and singing and dancing
without end. Vedic mantras and songs were issuing from a
splendid hall; the brides and bridegrooms were seated face to face
and king Janaka said “O! Rama! Take my daughter Sita by the
hand. She will be your partner and companion in following the
path of duty and will follow you like your shadow in thick and
thin” This manthra (sacred word) by the way is repeated even
today in every Hindu marriage. The festivities continued unabated
for a week when prince Yudhajit arrived. He was Bharata’s uncle
whom Dasaratha in his haste, had forgotten to invite. But the
noble prince did not take it amiss as Dasaratha sorely repented
and more than made amends.
King Dasaratha now bade farewell to the generous hosts
and with pleasant memories and great thankfulness was returning
to Ayodhya when a dark cloud appeared ahead and ominous signs
overhead boded danger.
Parasurama
An imposing figure was approaching. He was a Brahmin
as evidenced by the sacred thread but he carried a great bow and
a fearful axe It was Parasurama, a partial Avatar of Vishnu himself.
His father, the sage Jamadagni, had been brutally beheaded by an
insolent kshatriya prince and in revenge, Parasurama was roaming
round the earth exterminating the kshatriyas and now he had come
upon the luckless wedding party. Poor Dasaratha, fell down in a
swoon crying “Pity, Pity, great Brahmin. It behoves you a Brahmin,
to show pity. My son is so young and only just married”. Moaning
like this the poor king completely swooned away. Without even
looking at Dasaratha, Parasurama turned sternly to Rama and
said “Oh! Ho! So you are Rama, who has broken the Siva Danush.
Look! Here is my Vishnu Dhanush. If you can bend it I shall
know that you are a worthy opponent and I shall grant you battle”.
Prince Rama looked stern and said “Give me your bow”. The
prince raised the proffered bow, stringed it and fitting an arrow,
drew it easily and sternly said to Parasurama “ O! Brahmin, now
show me the target I never draw an arrow in vain” Parasurama
now realized that this was Lord Vishnu himself and said gently
“You are Vishnu himself. I am not humbled by bowing to you
Release your arrow and let it consume all the merit I have
acquired” So, saying Parasurama retreated with folded hands. A
great shadow had lifted and king Dasaratha recovering asked “Has
Parasurama left?” On being assured that the redoubtable Brahmin
had left, the king heaved a sigh of relief and resumed the journey
to Ayodhya. The citizens hearing the glad news had bedecked the
city, like a bride and eagerly awaited their princes’ arrival. There
were weeks of rejoicing. The three queen mothers doted on their
daughters in law and Dasaratha in his durbar with his heroic sons
around carrying out his orders seemed like Indra in heaven holding
court with the great gods Agni, Varuna etc at his behest It
was a time of great felicity for all but alas! It was destined to be
short.
It occurred to the king that he too was getting old and that
he must relinquish everything and enter the forest for Tapas
(penance) like his ancestors. He decided to crown his eldest son
Rama as King. His councillors,Vasishta and other sages approving,
preparations were afoot for the grand coronation. Only prince
Bharata was absent, He had, gone on honey moon to his maternal
grandfather’s court at Kekeya (modern Peshawar) By chance
Manthara,(Kaikeyi s old maid servant,) ascended to the top most
terrace and was astounded at what she saw The whole city was
getting adorned with pandals (shelters) and arches. A passerby
said “Why? Haven’t you heard that Prince Rama is to be crowned
tomorrow? “ Trembling with anger as well as old age, Manthara
ran down shrieking at Kaikeyi “You are ruined! Rama is going to
be crowned tomorrow.” Instead of getting agitated, Kaikeyi was
pleased and presented a pearl necklace to Manthara. But she
threw it down in anger. Familiarity and long service made her
bold “You fool! Don’t you realize you will be only a servant or
worse of Kausalya’s hereafter? Your poor son Bharata will be
deprived of his right” Manthara raved on like this till at last poor
Kaikeyi gave in and decided to make use of the two boons
Dasaratha had formerly given to her for saving his life in a battle
field. Throwing away her ornaments she flung herself down in a
dark room. Quite unsuspecting Dasaratha entered her chambers
to announce the glad tidings . He was shocked to see the chamber
in disarray and Kaikeyi was sprawling on the floor, her hair
dishevelled and fire darting from her eyes. The King tried to pat
her but she hissed like a snake “ Fie upon you! I want the two
boons you once promised. Give me those boons now” Dasaratha
replied “By my dear son Rama whom I love more than my life, I
swear I will grant you any boon” Kaikeyi now assumed a serious
tone, “Ye Gods! Bear witness to these boons. By the first boon I
demand that my son Bharata shall be crowned King and by the
second I require that Rama be exiled to the Dandaka forest for
fourteen years”.The King fell on the floor thunderstruck. News
soon passed around that the coronation was cancelled and Rama
was exiled . Prince Rama did not flinch. Seeing his father in
pitiable condition, he gently raised him up and announced his
determination to leave for the forest at once. Princess Sita had
already packed her small kit and was resolved to follow her
husband, saying that this was her marriage vow. And Lakshmana
got ready his weapons determined to stand guard over his brother
and serve them night and day. Meanwhile, a chariot was got ready.
They bowed to the aged grieving parents promising to return.
Sumanthra the faithful charioteer now took up the reins and coaxed
the unwilling horses forward. The rebellious populace blocked
the way but Rama assured them that he would return and told
them to be loyal to Bharatha. All the women were weeping, even
birds stopped singing and amid cries of “ O! Rama! O! Sita!, O
peerless Lakshmana!.” the chariot slowly moved out of Ayodhya.
The renowned emperor Dasaratha hero of a hundred battles now
lay on the ground moaning “ O Rama, Sita, O Lakshmana” and
expired in the early hours next day.
The trio reached Sarayu, crossing it while the followers were
still asleep and pushed on into the forest, soon they came to a
clearing and decided to take some rest. A sound as if a host was
approaching was heard and their leader cried “Jai
SriRamachandra” bowing low. It was Guha the forest chieftain.
He added.“ I have heard Sri Ramchandra, that you have been
exiled, Please accept our hospitality for the full term. There is no
lack of good things in the forest” Rama was pleased and said with
great kindness “Thank you Guha, till now we were four brothers.
Hereafter it will be five. However, I can’t stay here as it is too
near Ayodhya. I will not be fulfilling the vow. I must move out”
After resting for the night they moved out escorted by Guha and
his followers and reached the bank of the Ganges. Guha ferried
them over in his boat and prayed “Oh Rama, I m ferrying you
over in this boat. Do you also, kindly help me cross the ocean of
samsara” Pushing on they met many sanyasins and finally, the
great Sage Agasthia who directed them to Panchavati. At
Panchavati (Nasik) Lakshmana constructed a Parnasala
(Asramam) where they led a delightful life. Five great banyan
trees spread a green canopy overhead. The sacred river Godavari,
has its source here. Peacocks are seen dancing gaily and whitethroated
kites circle overhead. In this idyllic background Sita’s
delight knew no bounds and they were almost grateful to Kaikeyi
for this picnic.
We shall now return to Ayodhya. Speedy messengers were
sent to Kekaya to bring Bharata and Satrugna urgently. The
journey was full of bad omens. Rushing into the palace, he enquired
“Where is my father? Kaikeyi coolly replied, “Your father has
gone to the place where all people have to go”. When all the
details were told he burst into uncontrollable anger. The funeral
obsequies were hastily performed and he announced his resolve
to fetch his brother and crown him. A great army accompanied
him and their din reached Rama’s ears. “Lakshmana, climb that
tree and see who is approaching” said Rama. Lakshamana obeyed
and explained that the Ayodhya army was approaching. He was
furious, “ To arms, To arms, dear brother! Not content with usurping
the throne, Bharata is advancing with the army to destroy us. You
please guard Sita. I want to crush the enemy single handed.”
“Patience, Patience” cried Rama. “Bharata is coming to take us
back to Ayodhya.” By this time, Bharata was a bow shot from
Rama and shouting “O! brother, brother! rushed towards Rama,
crying and blind with tears. He faltered and fell down clutching
Rama’s feet. On hearing about Dasaratha’s demise, it was now
Rama’s turn to fall. The funeral rites were hastily performed and
now Bharata came to business. “Brother, I will not return without
you” To this Rama replied “The heavens may fall, the ganges
may roll back, I cannot return!” When things had come to such a
pass Bharata had a flash “Rama step on these sandals” Rama did
so and prince Bharata reverently bearing them on his head took
leave saying to Rama “O! Rama, These sandals will rule for
fourteen years and if at the end of it I do not see you, I will
immolate myself. Rama too agreed and thus bearing the sandals
on his head and shouting “Jai Ram, Jai Sita, Victory to Ram!” the
party returned to Ayodhya . Bharata stopped at Nandigram, a
village on the outskirts of Ayodhya, installed the sandals on a royal
throne and ruled in Rama’s name.
Rama, Lakshmana and Sita were now in comparative peace
at Panchavati enjoying the idyllic beauty of the Godavari against
the backdrop of the blue mountains and thinking of the greatness
of Bharata when Surpanakha a rakshasi came there by pure
chance. She had spied them from a distance and attracted by the
magnificent beauty of Rama had come near. She introduced herself
as the sister of the powerful demon king Ravana. Her cousins,
Khara and Dushana were the governors of Dandakaranya. If he
would marry her, he would win the friendship of Ravana and they
could roam over Dandakaranya enjoying sensual bliss. Rama
demurred and seeing that Sita was the cause, the rakshasi assumed
her gigantic form and made a swoop upon Sita. But Lakshmana
ever on the alert flashed his sword and sliced off her nose and
breasts. She ran bleeding and roaring and set her cousins Khara
and Dushana against Rama. An army of fourteen thousand
ferocious bloodthirsty rakshasas set upon Rama. And then ensued
a terrible battle. Rama took his stand on a projecting promontory
and sent volleys of arrows. They were like rays of the mid day
sun. Rama seemed to be everywhere. In an hour’s space the din
of battle died. The ground was strewn with dead bodies and
vultures circled overhead. Surpanakha saw the havoc she had
done. She immediately fled to Lanka and fell like a bolt from the
blue before Ravana holding court, shrieking “Revenge! I want
Rama’s blood. Two brothers Rama and Lakshmana oh! how
gloriously handsome, have intruded into our Dandakaranya. Rama’s
wife Sita is so beautiful. I tried to kidnap her for you and this is
the result.” She pointed to her bleeding nose. Ravana’s cupidity
was roused. He threatened and coaxed Maricha to assume the
form of a golden dear and draw Rama and Lakshamana out of
the ashram so that he could kidnap Sita and bring her to Lanka.
Much against his will Maricha as a golden deer gambolled before
the ashram. Rama pursued the fleeing deer and losing patience
let fly an unerring arrow. The deer fell assuming its true form of a
rakshasa and crying “O! Lakshmana, O! Sita! Help me!”
Sita heard the cry and panic stricken cried “O! Lakshmana,
go at once and save your brother” Lakshmana protested in vain.
Sita was raving. So taking up his bow and arrows he left . Half
way up, he met Rama returning after killing Maricha. “O!
Lakshmana! Why did you leave Sita alone” cried Rama.
The moment Lakshmana left Sita, Ravana came disguised
as a sanyasin begging for alms and when Sita came out he forcibly
placed her in Pushpaka Vimanam (flying chariot) and sped towards
Lanka. Jatayu the king of Vultures trying to intercept, was cut
down.
Bereft of his Kingdom , bereft of his dear wife, Rama
bewailed his lot like any ordinary man. Lakshmana tried his best
to console him and the two together began to search. Soon they
came upon the dying Jatayu who gasped “It is Ravana who has
flown southward with Janaki. Alas! I could not save her” Blood
gushed out of his beak and he fell back dead. Embracing him
Rama grieved “Alas! How unfortunate are even loyal friends who
befriend me!”. He performed the funeral rites praying “Faithful
friend of my father! Go to the land of the faithful and enjoy the
good fruits”.
The brothers trudged through the thick forest ever watchful
with bent bows when all of a sudden they found themselves in the
clutches of a huge one eyed giant whose head was in the middle
of his body and with arms a mile long. He carried a huge spear on
which were stuck an elephant, a lion and a boar. The brothers cut
off his hands and legs but the giant would not die. He roared “O!
Rama! O! Lakshmana! I know you. I cannot be killed by weapons.
This is a boon I have won from Brahma. Bury me in a deep pit.”
The brothers did as they were told. From the grave arose the
shining form of a gandharva. He said “Once I had been to Indra’s
court and cast covetous eyes on apsaras Rambha. Indra divined
my thoughts and struck me down promising release and redemption
when I meet you , avatar of Vishnu. Janaky is taken to Lanka by
the demon Ravana. You must make friends with Sugriva who is
hiding in the forests of Kishkinda driven away by his brother Bali.
With Sugriva’s help you will recover Janaki”. So saying the
gandharva vanished.
Trekking further south, they reached the ashramam of
Matanga Maharishi. It was swept clean for years by old Sabari, a
low caste woman in the hope of meeting Rama. He granted her
moksha (the final release) As they were pushing forward along
the banks of the Pampa river, they were observed by Sugriva and
his five followers atop a distant cliff. Sugriva was suspicious and
asked his follower Sri Hanuman to go and reconnoitre. He
cautiously approached but soon threw away all caution and told
the whole story of Sugriva’s exile. Rama killed Bali and crowned
Sugriva king of all the Vanaras. In return Sugriva promised to find
Sita. A great army of monkeys marched south until they reached
the sea. Now a messenger had to be sent to Lanka and the choice
fell on Hanuman. Assuming a colossal form and muttering “Ram
! Ram!” he made a tremendous leap, overcame all obstacles and
dropped on Lanka. Again assuming a small monkey’s form
explored Lanka thoroughly; its fortifications and defense systems
and reaching Asoka vanam found Sita in the last extremity of
distress . He gently introduced himself.. He humbly presented
her Rama’s signet ring; received a token jewel from herself and
set Lanka ablaze . He made a return leap dropping before Rama
and Lakshmana with the glad news “I have seen Sita!” Rama
embraced him with tears in his eyes.
The bridge twenty miles long was ready and the monkey
army crossed over. The attack began. Many heroic acts were
done by both sides. In the end the rakshasas were annihilated.
Ravana and his son and brothers were killed, all except Vibhishana
who was pious. Lakshmana crowned him king and the monkey
army retreated with Rama and Sita to Ayodhya. It was the last
day of the exile and Hanuman was just in time to save Bharata
from immolation. Great was the jubilation in Ayodhya. The
brothers embracing each other shed tears of joy and the citizens
were delirious with joy crying “Where can we find such brotherly
love or such devotion to husband as Sita? Victory to Rama,
Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrugna, Jai Ram, Jai Ram” The
happiness of the three queen mothers can be easily imagined.
Rama with his brothers reigned for many years. It was
Rama Rajyam. No sorrow, no disease, no untimely death. Rains
were seasonal and earth was bounteous. Peace and prosperity
reigned everywhere. It is said that in the end Rama with all those
who would follow him entered the Sarayu, returning to Vaikunta,
his eternal abode.
A word of apology is due here, we have described all too
briefly the great story of Rama. To all believers it is not a story; it
is a way of life. Rama is the great exemplar of how a man should
behave as a son, as a husband, as a ruler in prosperity and dire
adversity, fully upholding the truth or dharmam (duty) even in the
most trying situations. He never said that he was an avatar.
“I consider myself only as Dasaratha’s son” But this was only to
confirm his identity with the common man. He did not want to
distance himself from others. He wanted to teach people that all
can become divine. Jai Ram! Jai Ram! Jai Sita Ram!!.
CHAPTER 14
Yayati
Much later in the line of the solar dynasty occurs the name
of Yayati. He was not the eldest son of his father, the mighty king
Nahusha. Still he was selected for his kingly qualities and as the
other sons preferred ascetic lives and had become brahmanas.
About this time Vrishaparva the descendant of Prahlada
and Bali was the king of the asuras. He had a beautiful daughter
named Sarmishta. This spirited princess along with her girl
companions was roaming in the woodlands in quest of pleasure
and adventure when they came across a broad crystal clear lake.
They decided to take a plunge in the cool waters. So divesting
their upper garments, they plunged into the water and were having
a merry time, splashing the water at one another when Lord Siva
with Parvathy was seen passing overhead. Hastily the girls swam
to the shore and put on their garments when it was seen that
Sarmishta and Devayani daughter of Sukracharya had put on
each other’s garments by mistake. The princess lost her temper
and shouted “Daughter of a beggarly brahmin! How dare you to
put on my dress” Devayani retorted “I am the daughter of the
great sage Sukracharya. Kings and devas bow down before him.
It is my father’s spiritual power that sustains your father upon his
throne” From words they came to blows and began to scratch
and pull as girls do. In her anger Sarmishta pushed over Devayani
into a deep well. And they all fled leaving Devayani in the well.
Her clothes were torn and some thorny bushes prevented her from
drowning. She shouted; getting weaker she began to moan.
By chance Yayati was out hunting and hearing a low moan
Sk 9. Ch 21 - Slokam 2
from the bottom of the well, peeped in and was surprised to see a
girl moaning. Immediately he took off his cloak and threw it down
and the kind king bent down and stretching his hand caught hold
of her uplifted hands and pulled her out. He was a gallant prince
very kind and very handsome. Devayani looked down and said
“O! King! You have saved my life. You have given your hand to
me and also a dress to wear. Deign to accept me” Yayati was in
a fix. How could a kshatriya marry a brahmin girl? But she assured
him that her father the great Sukracharya would not object.
Meanwhile Sukracharya had returned and when he heard
all that had happened he became angry and retired from the court.
Very soon things began to go awry. Bad omens multiplied. The
reason was clear. The great sage’s spiritual aura was not there.
Vrishaparva immediately ran up and prostrated before
Sukracharya. Relenting, the sage said “I shall return on one
condition. Your daughter and a hundred other maids must be sent
as servants to my daughter” In the interest of his subjects the
king agreed and so it was done. The servants and Sarmishta waited
upon Devayani. Here there was an unexpected development.
Yayati and Sarmishta also fell in love with each other. Of course
there was nothing wrong in this as kings had more than one wife
in those days. But Devayani was furious with jealousy and fled to
her father. The rishi too became unnecessarily angry and cursed
Yayati “ Since you have been a slave to passion, may old age and
weakness descend upon you at once” Suddenly Yayati found
himself old and haggard. He appealed to the old sage “By reducing
me to this condition you are depriving your daughter also of all
enjoyment” Sukracharya now relented and said “If you can
persuade one of your sons to take on this old age and give you his
own youth, you will become young again”. Yayati requested each
of his sons for this unreasonable exchange. But the youngest Puru
agreed. Yayati becoming young again lived a full sensuous life
with Devayani. However, in the end he realised the futility and
phantom like nature of all pleasures which have their origin in the
mind. And resolving with his queens’ approval, exercised an iron
control over his mind and uniting it with Brahmam once for all
attained realization. Puru who had regained his youth was made
emperor of the entire world; his brothers being governors of distant
provinces.
Sakuntalam
Dushyanta was one of the most famous successors of Puru.
Unmarried and very handsome he was out hunting. It was too late
to return and so he had to seek shelter in a hermitage. He was
received by the young disciples of Kanva Maharishi who had
gone out. There Dushyanta saw a maiden of surpassing beauty
and lost his heart entirely “Are you an apsaras or goddess. O!
beautiful one?” The maiden replied “I am Sakuntala, the daughter
of Maharishi Viswamithra and apsaras Menaka. Abandoned by
both, I was brought up by Maharishi Kanva as his daughter and
who may you be charming prince?” Dushyantha introduced himself.
It was love at first sight and they married by the Gandharva form
of marriage. Next morning Maharishi Kanva returned. His spiritual
insight told him what had happened. He entirely approved of the
marriage and blessed the pair. Dushyantha returned to his palace
promising to send for her in a befitting manner, but by a quirk of
fate entirely forgot Sakuntala. A year passed and she had given
birth to a beautiful son. Kanva Maharishi sent her with an escort
of his disciples to the king. But he had entirely forgotten his
association due to the curse of Durvasa. In this extremity the
poor lady called on her mother Menaka who suddenly appeared
and carried off her daughter. At the same time a heavenly voice
was heard “O! King! She is your lawful wife and the child is your
own heir!” The curse also lifted and Dushyanta now remembered
with anguish all that had happened. But it was too late. He
accepted his son making him his heir. The child grew up strong
and handsome with all princely qualities. This was Bharata the
famous emperor of the entire earth and this land is known as
Bharath since that time.
This story is the theme of the famous poetic drama
“Sakuntalam” acclaimed by even western critics as the greatest
romantic drama.
Rantideva
In the Bhagavatham we always find the great kings towards
the end of their reigns, giving up all pomp and power and becoming
strict sanyasins to attain moksha (final release) But Ranti Deva
gave up all power very early, embracing the life of a sanyasin.
His family also was with him and they lived on whatever they
could get. On one occasion they got a little sweetened rice and
were about to share it when a hungry brahmin appeared and
begged for food. Ranti Deva at once gave him half. The brahmin
went away satisfied and when they sat down to share the remnant
a hunter appeared and after the hunter a trader and then only
some water was left. Just then an outcaste with his famished
dogs appeared “Water! Water! “ they craved. Ranti Deva was
about to give that water when the gods (Trinity) revealed themselves
and took him and his family to higher worlds. Ranti deva is a
byword for extreme generosity. He could see god in every one.
CHAPTER 15
Sri Krishna Avataram
The old order changes yielding place to new. The mighty
Ganga when it nears the estuary breaks into a number of channels.
Even so, the great line of solar dynasty split into many lines of
minor kings and chieftains. Some claiming descent from the moon
called themselves kings of the lunar dynasty. Many had
degenerated and had become oppressors of the people. Pujas and
rituals and yagnas were stopped; the devas were starved and
appealed to Vishnu (Hari) the lord of gods and men and of all
living things and Vishnu replied “Have patience you gods. When
the time is ripe I shall descend on earth at Mathura. Meanwhile
do you all precede me and take birth as gopis and gopalas at
Brindavan in Mathura” And the devas obeyed as directed.
Ugrasena Maharaja was ruling at Mathura. A good king
but not stern enough. His son Kamsa was a great warrior but too
ambitious. He could not wait till his father retired to become king
With the help of some asuric associates he usurped the throne;
threw his father into prison and began a reign of terror and
oppression.
Kamsa had a cousin sister named Devaki of whom he was
very fond. Her marriage had been arranged with Vasudeva, a
prince of a powerful clan. At the conclusion of the grand wedding,
Devaki and Vasudeva seated in a splendid chariot were being driven
to their palace by Kamsa himself when an unseen voice from
Sk 10. Ch 3 - Slokam 9,10
above boomed “Kamsa, you fool! You are driving a couple whose
eighth son will slay you!” Kamsa at once. let go the bridle, jumped
down from the chariot and catching hold of the long tresses of the
bride, drew his sword. Even in this extremity Vasudeva kept his
cool and calmly assured Kamsa that he would present every son
as soon as it was born, to Kamsa, to be disposed of as he pleased.
Kamsa reflected. Vasudeva was known to be a man of his word.
He let go his hold and allowed them to proceed.
By the end of the year a son, bright as the morning star was
born. True to his word, Vasudeva carried the child in his arms and
laid it before Kamsa. Even Kamsa’s heart relented “ Vasudeva I
am glad you have kept your word. But I have fear only from the
eighth child, so take this child back and cherish it” Vasudeva gladly
took it back but was not too glad. The devas got alarmed. Kamsa
was softening; their plans would go awry. So they requested Sri
Narada to set matters right. The Devarishi smiled. Approaching
Kamsa he said “O! King! You may have made a mistake because
any of the eight children can be made the eighth by changing the
origin of counting.” Kamsa thanked Narada for pointing out the
error and immediately went after Vasudeva, snatched the child
from him and dashed it on a stone that was conveniently near by.
This went on six times. Six babies were brutally killed.
Devaki conceived for the seventh time hoping against hope that
this one at least would be saved somehow.
The scene now shifts to Brindavan, a pastoral village not
far from Mathura. Dairy farming was the only means of livelihood
of these sturdy people. The lush meadows, thick with green grass
were ideal grazing grounds for cattle. The village literally
overflowed with milk and curds and honey which form the basis
of wealth. Nandagopa was their prince and Yasoda was his
consort. Kamsa’s reign was becoming unbearable to good people.
Lord Vishnu decided that the time was ripe for his
avatar (descending to earth) and requested his inseparable
companion and other self Adisesha to precede him and enter the
womb of Devaki. Then, turning to Mahadevi Loka maya who
shrouds him from the gaze of the irreverent and impious he said
” Ho! Devi Mahamaya! You have also a role to play in this drama.
Remove my brother from Devaki’s womb and transplant him in
Rohini at Brindavan and yourself enter Yasodas body. Do this
and as a reward for this great service, humanity will worship you
as Durga, Kali, Maya with offerings of flowers and rice sweetened
with jaggery, and honey” Bowing low Mahamaya departed.
Next day, news spread that Devaki had aborted. Kamsa,
now knew for certain that the next would be his killer. He redoubled
the guard and put Devaki and Vasudeva in chains. Now Vishnu
himself entered Vasudeva’s body. He shone like the sun and felt
an inexplicable elation. The elation spread to Devaki also and both
felt that their misery would soon end. Kamsa was now getting
nervous and gave strict instructions to the guards to inform him as
soon as the child was born. He was having disturbing dreams
portending death. The devas with Brahma and Siva were hovering
above with garlands and flowers singing songs of praise and
welcome.
Brahma’s Hymn of Praise
Hail! Lord of the universe, Truth incarnate
Thou art the Truth three fold
True now, in the past and in the future
Like a great tree Thou art, with roots in Prakriti
The four Purusharthas thy saps; the vital airs thy extension
Hunger, thirst, sorrow, infatuation
Old age and death thy constitution
The mind, intellect, ego its branches
And Jiva and Easwara the two birds that rest
Thy feet the boat to cross Maya
Hearing your stories, listening to songs about you and serving
others is the way to your presence and release from every
affliction. Singing like this they departed.
The planets assumed favourable positions. A pleasant breeze
wafted heavenly odours. A gentle rain revived all living creatures,
moving and unmoving. Rivers rolled limpid and clear and even
thunder was muffled keeping time with the waves of the ocean.
Holy rishis chanted manthras as Devaki gave birth to her divine
son. Vasudeva saw the divine child with four arms bearing the
conch, lotus, mace and chakram, adorned already with priceless
necklaces and kaustubham, wearing a jewelled crown, lotus eyed
and smiling at the bewildered parents. He told them that this was
not the first time he was born as their son. Even in previous births
he had been their son because of their great purity and tapas. He
asked Vasudeva to carry him to Gokulam, deposit him at Yasoda’s
side, take the baby girl he would find there and bring it to Mathura.
So saying the child resumed a baby’s form. Vasudeva implicitly
followed the directions. Placing the baby in a basket he reverently
carried him on his head and stepped out.
Then wonder after wonder followed. The iron chains binding
him and Devaki had fallen apart and now the great gates flew
open. A deep sleep overpowered the guards who lay snoring. There
was mild thunder and a slight drizzle, but he was not getting wet.
Looking up he saw a great hooded serpent protecting him from
the rain. Gokulam was some seven or eight miles away and he
had to cross the great river Jamuna which was already in spate.
Not knowing what to do Vasudeva with his precious burden, just
pushed on until he reached the brink of the roaring flood. Then O!
Wonder of wonders; the roar subsided; the waters became calm
and Vasudeva was emboldened to cross. It was at first ankles
deep, then knee deep, then waist deep and there it stopped.
Vasudeva waded on and on but the river continued to be only
waist deep and the hooded serpent was covering him like a huge
umbrella over head. Reaching the other bank he continued his
journey. The glowworms lighted the path and he reached Gokulam.
Not a dog barked. He entered a well lighted house. Men were
sleeping in the open verandahs. Inside a matron was sleeping with
a newly born baby by her side. Gently removing the baby girl
Vasudeva put his own child there and regretfully traced his way
back and nobody was any wiser about this baby transfer. Returning
to Mathura in the dead of night he found the prison gates opening
automatically as before and deposited gently the baby girl by the
side of Devaki. Sorely she missed her baby son but realized that
this was all his play and fondled the baby girl as if it was her own.
The baby however began to cry so loud that the sleeping guards
awoke with a start and some of them dashed off to inform Kamsa.
Trembling with rage and fear the villain snatched the baby by its
legs and was swinging it around when slipping from his hands she
sprang into the air and assuming her own beautiful but awe inspiring
form with eight arms, carrying weapons, said in a ringing voice
“Fool, you have killed many innocents in vain. Sri Hari, your enemy
is growing up elsewhere”. So saying the Devi vanished. Kamsa
fell back abashed “Alas! What a fool I have been! Even gods tell
falsehood. Alas! My poor sister! How I have wronged you! It is
all due to fate. Kindly forgive me for my cruelty”. Kamsa’s
repentance was short lived. Back at his court, he was surrounded
by his asuric courtiers Chanura and others “The devas are cowards
who have fled from the shower of your deadly arrows. Vishnu
sometimes overcomes our leaders by mere stratagem. He derives
his strength from the oblations offered to him by some traitorous
brahmins and rishis. If we have your permission we will
exterminate these vermin”. Kamsa agreed and ordered them to
destroy Brahmins and temples. The villains obeyed with glee and
torched the places of worship and cottages even in far off
Gokulam. And one bright devil suggested “Why not we kill all
new born children I have a sister Poothana by name who will do it
with pleasure” “Agreed” roared Kamsa and Poothana started on
her deadly mission.
At Gokulam the month long rejoicings at the birth of an heir
to their chief had not yet subsided. It was as if a brilliant star had
risen. The baby was so beautiful with its lotus like eyes and ruby
lips and its complexion of a fresh rose, one could not take one’s
eyes off it. There was an endless stream of gopis (cowherd
maidens) coming to pay their respects. The lowing cows yielded
milk in greater profusion. It seemed as if Sri Lakshmi, the goddess
of plenty had descended upon the village and the simple villagers
believed that all this was due to the child. Yasoda really believed
that this was her son for she was unconscious at the time of her
delivery and knew not its sex. Nandagopa her husband had gone
to Mathura to pay the annual taxes of butter and curds. He used
this opportunity to renew his friendship with his old friend
Vasudeva. The two were great friends. The talk naturally turned
to the arrival of the new baby. “Even though you are past the
prime god has given you a fine son. Cherish him with care for the
times are bad. Return home straight before anything happens.”
Nandagopa too had an uneasy feeling of some impending danger,
so taking a hasty leave he departed.
Poothana was approaching Gokulam. Using her magic arts
she had converted herself into a handsome gopi and bearing a
golden tray with flowers entered the village with mincing steps
and humming a tune. No one dreamt of stopping her. Entering
boldly Yasoda’s open house she gazed at the enchanting baby,
hesitated for a moment, a shade passing over her face. But it
was only for a moment “I must be loyal to Kamsa or he will destroy
me”. So, steeling herself she took the sleeping child and clasped it
to her poisoned breasts. With eyes still half closed the baby began
to suck. After a few seconds she tried to free herself from the
still fiercely sucking baby but could not free herself. The rakshasi
resumed her true form, thrashing the ground with her hands and
feet fell prone on the earth like a tree uprooted , the baby still
sucking at her breast. She fell with a terrible cry whose
reverberations reached Kamsa’s frightened ears.
All the village now collected round the dead body of the
rakshasi trying to extricate the baby that was playing on the top
quite unconcerned. Very soon Nanda also arrived and together
they extricated the baby. Then they made a bonfire of the
rakshasi’s body and strangely enough, a sweet perfume spread
over the entire place. The baby had sucked out all the poison from
her system and it now burned like camphor and sandalwood. Just
because she had given milk, albeit poisoned, to the divine child
she was granted Moksha (final release) How much more must
be the reward of those who worship and offer sweet payasam to
him!
Prior to the birth of a baby to Yasoda, Rohini had given
birth to a fine son, fair as the moon, brightening the entire village
with his brilliance. He was the avatar of Adisesha, Vishnu’s support
and other self. The two babies seemed to be the foci around which
the entire village revolved. Nanda began to prepare for the naming
ceremony and just then the great astrologer saint Garga arrived.
He was the family purohit (priest) of the Vrishnis and Nanda now
requested him to conduct the ceremony. Garga agreed but cautioned
that it must be done with the utmost secrecy. Otherwise, Kamsa
would get wind of this and he would send his minions to kill the
babies. So, the naming was done with the utmost secrecy. The
elder, Rohini’s son was named “Rama” because he pleased
everyone and the younger, Yasoda’s son was named Krishna as
he attracted every one. The elder was also called Balarama, as
the baby was extraordinarily sturdy.
The gopas and gopis were simple hard working people. When
there was sunshine, they had to dry their grains or grind them into
flour, churn the curds and collect the butter, split the logs for
firewood and so on. Yasoda, Nanda’s wife, was also engaged in
these activities laying down the sleeping baby in the shade cast
by a cart that was fortuitously standing by. As Yasoda was absent
too long, the baby became restless throwing up its tiny legs. The
feet coming in contact with the cart, shattered it into a thousand
fragments. The gopis rushing to the place, took the baby in their
arms and finding it unhurt and smiling, thanked the gods for its
miraculous escape. The fragments were found to be pieces of a
dead asura’s body. The cowherd boys who were watching from a
distance assured them that Krishna had kicked the asura shattering
him to pieces. But the elders did not believe it; they thought it was
just children’s prattle.
Trinavartha
Once Yasoda was fondling her son as usual when she felt
an unusual weight. Reeling under the weight she placed the child
on the floor. Suddenly with a screaming noise a fierce whirlwind
struck the place. Columns of sand were whirling round and round
pelting everyone with sharp edged stones. Trees were pulled up
by the root and even animals were lifted and whirled around.
People ran hither and thither for shelter. It was Trinavartha,
Kamsa’s emissary, who assuming the form of a whirlwind was
sweeping the village to lift Krishna. He lifted the child and was
speeding with him to Mathura but quickly felt it was too heavy
and tried to shake him off. In vain, the asura struggled to throw
him off. The child had clasped him by the throat and he fell dead
like a mountain cleft by lightning and thunder. The storm suddenly
subsided and the gopas found Krishna playing in the debris. The
gopis could only thank the unseen gods for this miraculous escape.
The babies now began to crawl on their knees and did enough
mischief to keep all the gopies on their toes. They could not and
did not want to take their eyes off the children. Even when they
danced and played they carried him on their hips by turns and
there was great competition for this pleasure. From crawling on
their knees the children rapidly reached the next stage of toddling
and walking erect with unsteady steps. There was no end to the
fun and frolic. The gopis would make him dance offering a piece
of cake or a little butter as prize. He who was making the world
or even the universe dance, was now dancing like a puppet to the
tunes of the simple milk maids! Sometimes he would pull the calves
by their tails and enjoy a tug of war. Growing bigger Krishna
organized the boys into gangs making forays into the dairies kept
by grown up ladies. The complaint became general “Yasoda, your
boy is stealing our butter. They break the pot and drink the curds
as it pours out. Not content with this, they take the butter and
feed. the monkeys and kittens that follow them always!” Yasoda
protested “Why should my son steal butter when we have plenty
of it in our house. If you can catch him red handed I will punish
him”. The gopis murmured but they could not get angry with
Krishna. One enterprising gopi laid a ruse. She kept the doors
partly open, placed the butter pans deliberately within reach of
little Krishna and lay in wait. Sure enough, Krishna and his gang
(which included the son of the owner herself) appeared, filled
their hands and mouth with butter They were about to beat a
retreat when the owner lady pounced on little Krishna, caught
him by the hand and thus catching him reached his house shouting
“Now, Yasoda! What do you say to this?” Yasoda coming out said
“Why this is not Krishna” The gopi who was dragging Krishna,
now looked down and saw that it was her own son! Quite abashed,
she let go her son, while Krishna laughed loud from inside his
house and Yasoda frowned.
Yasoda’s Vision
As days passed, Krishna’s mischief waxed. He would
release the calves before milking time and when questioned, would
make faces. He was the beloved leader of all the boys and girls
who blithely followed him in all his pranks. On one occasion they
complained to his mother “Yasoda Ma! This Krishna has eaten
mud!” Immediately catching hold of Krishna Yasoda asked
“Krishna! Did you eat mud? All these boys and even your brother
says so” Krishna stoutly protested. “All right open your mouth”
said Yasoda holding him firmly. The child opened its little mouth
and wonder of wonders Yasoda gazed and saw the heavens and
stars; mountains and rivers; living creatures big and small and
finally her own village and herself looking into the open mouth of
another little Krishna. Yasoda fainted. Krishna relented and cast
his yoga maya over her. Slowly opening her eyes Yasoda was
once more her normal self back in this world of maya; in her own
village and she entirely forgot her experience
Krishna Is Bound To A Wooden Mortar
After setting her servants to various tasks Yasoda was
herself engaged in churning curds. She was rather a large sized
lady wearing many bangles and a girdle. As she churned, the
bangles made a jingling musical sound and at the same time little
Krishna was clasping her round the neck begging to be suckled.
Because of her intense affection milk was oozing from her breasts.
She stopped the churning and turning round, took the child in her
lap and began to suckle it. The feeding was only half over when
she heard the milk pot in the kitchen boiling over. Hastily putting
the half fed child on the floor she rushed to the kitchen. Krishna
was annoyed. Getting up, he snatched the churning rod and broke
the pot. flooding the room with curd and butter. The ever ready
kittens and monkeys were lapping up happily. Not content with
this mischief Krishna collected some butter in his little hands; went
to an adjoining room and sitting on an upturned wooden mortar,
was throwing bits of butter to the crows and squirrels. Yasoda
returning from the kitchen, observed all the mischief. The mother
smiled but pretended to be angry and taking up a cane caught hold
of the little rogue threatening to chastise him; but the child now
began to sob. Tears rolled down his cheeks and Yasoda found it
hard to keep up her pretension of anger. But the child had to be
punished some how. She took up the rope used for churning and
began to bind Krishna to the wooden mortar. But winding round
and round she found it two inches short. So she attached another
piece of rope but that too proved two inches too short. This went
on for some time. Always it was two inches short. Some other
Gopis who had gathered round to witness the tamasha began to
laugh. Poor Yasoda was getting tired trying to bind the infinite.
The Lord, now took pity on his mother and allowed himself to be
bound, teaching the world that he can be bound only by love
Leaving Krishna like that, Yasoda went back to her work.
Liberation Of Nalakubera And Manigriva
Out in the compound stood two giant Arjuna Trees like
twins. The child crawling on all fours and dragging the wooden
mortar behind slowly worked his way through the cleft. The mortar
turned crosswise and got stuck between the trees. Krishna tugged,
the trees began to shiver and with a mighty prolonged roar, fell
prone flat and two shining celestials materialized with folded hands
and bent heads. They began to sing
“O! Krishna, Maha yogin Vasudeva
You have created all this manifest and unmanifest
They are thy body; Thou art time eternal
Thou alone art Prakriti and its gunas
Budhi, ego, mind, senses thy modifications
None by itself can comprehend the whole
Even as clouds caused by the sun, hide him
Thou art the supreme Lord, now manifest
For the prosperity of all the world. Salutations!
Singing thus they departed to their world.
Their Previous History
These gandharvas were the sons of Kubera, guardian of all
the wealth. Intoxicated by wealth, they had become blind to
decency and all the ills that this body is heir to . Wild with drink
and accompanied by their women folk they had plunged into holy
ganges Casting off their clothes they were disporting themselves
like elephants when Devarishi Sri Narada passed that way. Seeing
the sage from a distance, the ladies immediately snatched their
garments and clothed themselves; but not so the two gandharvas.
The great sage did not become angry. He was rather sad to see
the effect of wealth
Alas! Whose is this body?
Is it the Father’s or Mother’s?
Does it belong to, the worms or to fire
Wealth makes him vain and
Cruel to fellow creatures and
Thoughtless to their sufferings, for such,
Poverty is the all powerful panacea.
So, I shall deprive them of all their wealth
Let them be trees and when
They come in contact with Lord Krishna
Will regain their form and wisdom.
To fulfill the Rishi’s words the Lord had
To play this part.
Trek To Brindavan
Hearing the sound of the falling trees the gopas rushed to
the place and were relieved to find the child unhurt. Some stray
cowherd boys who had witnessed all this told them that the trees
fell because Krishna had tugged at the rope and further two
resplendent celestials appeared and worshipped Krishna. But the
elders dismissed all this and thought it was only children’s prattle.
Days passed. Rama and Krishna played with boys of their own
age. The gopi girls were mischievous. They would tauntingly say
“Krishna, you cannot dance”. Krishna would protest and begin to
dance, throwing his arms about like a marionette. “Krishna! You
cannot lift this stone”. Krishna would again protest and lift the
stone with great apparent effort and even walk a few steps, to the
great merriment of the girls— demonstrating that the Lord will do
anything for a devotee, even dancing to their tune.
Krishna And The Old Fruit Vendor
An old woman, a fruit seller, was one day trying to sell
fruits without much success. It was evening and she was tired.
“Apples, Apples, Mangoes, Grapes!” she cried but no one wanted
any. The child Krishna observed it and called “Hey! Mother!
Give me some fruits!” The tired old woman immediately put down
her basket and filled the child’s palm with fruits. In return she
had to be paid some grain. Asking her to wait the child went in
filled his palms with grain and returned but the grains had spilled
and only a few grains were left. But the child innocently placed it
in her basket. The old woman smiled at the child’s innocence and
its good nature and filled its palms with the choicest fruits. There
was no more hawking. When, after returning to her cottage she
opened the basket. O! Wonder of wonders! It was filled with the
costliest pearls and diamonds!
In spite of these miracles the elders were getting anxious.
“Our village is becoming the target of evil spirits. First it was
Poothana; then the whirlwind and fire; and now the arjuna trees.
All along the Lord has saved us. We must not ignore these warnings
or tempt fortune further . Let us move to a safer place. Brindavan
is a safer place and the location too is good. The river Yamuna is
nearby. There are broad meadows and hill slopes lush with grass
to feed our herds”. All the gopas agreed and the trek began.
The stalwarts with bows and arrows marched in front; with
trumpets and bugles and flutes others followed, and they were
followed by the aged and the infirm and the womenfolk and Yasoda
and Rohini in chariots came last. Reaching an open space they
pitched their tents in a half moon. The cowherds were delighted
at the delightful prospects all around and settled down to their
usual occupation of grazing the cows and milking while the happy
children ranged farther with their slings and pipes. They played
with the calves, wrestled with the older ones; bellowed like bulls
or imitated the larks. They grimaced at the monkeys and raced
with the birds. Days passed in this delightful manner. Rama and
Krishna were growing firmer and stronger every day when one
day an asura disguised as a bull calf entered the fold. Krishna, at
once, detected him and catching hold of the pseudo calf’s hind
legs and tail, whirled him round and round until he died gasping
and then threw him up so high that when he fell, he hit a kapitha
tree shedding all its fruits.
Bakasura The Crane
Bakasura, another ally of Kamsa assuming the shape of a
huge crane was sitting atop a cliff as if he was another cliff. The
cowherd boys threw stones at him out of curiosity but disregarding
all of them, he came straight to Krishna and gobbled him up. The
children were stunned and gazed in speechless surprise. The Asura
felt as if he had swallowed a chunk of burning coal and coughed it
out. Springing up quite unhurt Krishna caught the bird by its beak
and tore it asunder as if it was a blade of grass and that was the
end of Bakasura.
As the boys narrated the events of the day to the elders in the
evening, they wondered. Said Nanda, “What the great sage Garga
said is coming true. So many evil spirits have come and they have
all been destroyed. Surely, this child is divine!”
The Salvation of Aghasura
One day, the cowherd boys decided to have a grand buffet
dinner in the green lawns inside the forest. They rose early and
gathering the victuals from their mothers and taking their bugles
and flutes and with Krishna in their midst, left with their herds for
the forest. As if the gold ornaments were not enough they had
adorned themselves with garlands of wild flowers. Sticking
feathers in their head gear they danced with the peacocks, raced
with the shadows of over flying swans, mimicked the birds, pulled
the monkeys by their tails, shouted at the cave mouths mocking
the echoes. The Lord of the universe inaccessible to even yogis
thus rollicked freely with these simple cowherd boys. Who can
fathom the merit that must have been earned by these high souled
cowherd boys?
Impatient at the felicity of these simple cowherd boys
Aghasura ,brother of Poothana and Kamsa’s friend decided to
take revenge He assumed the form of a python and lay across
their path quite motionless. It was so huge, many miles long, Its
upper jaw was touching the clouds and lower jaw grazing the earth.
The presence of Krishna had made the cowherd boys fearless
and fool hardy . Clapping their hands they entered the cavernous
jaws with their flocks. Krishna who was closely watching also
entered the jaws. The devas above, trembled while the demons
rejoiced. The python snapped its jaws sure of its prey. Krishna
the great yogi suddenly enlarged himself effectively throttling the
python. Its eyes began to roll, its tail lashed about, its head dashed
on the ground and it died. The boys with their flock trooped out
hysterically singing the praises of their saviour and were astonished
to see a trail of light in the sky slowly moving down and entering
Krishna’s body. Thus even Aghasura who came to kill was saved
by the Lord. How much more will he be willing to save those
who are good !
This incident was narrated by the cowherd boys to their
elders, one year after its occurrence. Parikshit knew that this too
was due to the Lord’s Maya, yet to make sure, he requested Suka
to clear this apparent mystery. Suka Maharishi replied “Your
question is quite appropriate, for devout people, discussion about
divine stories is ever pleasant even as vain talk about women is
pleasing to libertines. I shall reveal to you what happened for
there is no secret that one may withhold from devoted disciples.”
After rescuing the children from the python, they reached
the river banks and prepared for dinner with the victuals they had
brought. They sat in a circle with Krishna at the centre. Every
one wanted to see Krishna face to face and the wonder was that
they were all facing him! They looked like lotus petals with the
pericarp at the centre. They offered each other and Krishna the
delicacies their mothers had made for them; cracked innocent jokes
laughing and making others laugh. It was a sight for the gods to
see!
Standing at the centre with flute and horn
Stuck in the girdle, facing all at once
With balls of rice and curds and pickles
Stuck in different fingers the Lord stood
And heavenly hordes from above gazed in wonder.
He who partakes all sacrifices.
The Lord! He dined!
One day as usual Krishna left for the woods early morning
with his friends and all their flocks of calves. While Krishna and
his friends reclined in an open space the calves penetrated deep
into the forest. The boys became anxious for their calves and
Krishna, though he had only half finished his meal, offered to go
and bring them back. Krishna followed their track but could not
find them anywhere. He returned to the base camp but the boys
too had vanished. At once, the all knowing Lord knew that Brahma
was the cause of all this mischief.
He immediately created or rather himself became all the
calves with their different skins and marks and became the
cowherd lads with their bugles and slings and returned in the
evening to the village creating the usual hubbub and noise. Each
calf entered into its own shed. The cows licked them with greater
affection, the udders oozing milk. The cowherd boys were
embraced by their mothers with unusual overflowing affection.
And they all left for grazing next day and every day after that, as
if nothing had happened. Only difference, was the inexplicable,
inordinate affection the gopis felt for their children who were all
Krishnas now.
One day the Krishna calves were grazing nearby while their
mother cows were grazing at the top of a hill. Suddenly the cows
became mad with uncontrollable affection for the Krishna calves
and bellowing loud and with tails raised they galloped towards
their calves overturning the gopas who vainly tried to control them.
They were very much annoyed and ashamed at their inability to
control these usually gentle creatures. It was almost one year
now and Rama became suspicious. Why should the gopis show
such extraordinary affection towards their sons and the cows to
their calves. Soon he divined the truth. Brahma came to see the
result of his handiwork. He was dismayed to see the little children
as little Krishnas with garlands and peacock feathers and the calves
too were little Krishnas. His egoism gone; he bowed with all his
four heads in all directions again and again. Wherever he looked
he saw only Krishna and looking farther, he saw different spheres
(world systems) emanating from Krishna’s body and hurtling
through space and other Brahmas presiding. Utterly confused he
fell prostrate and his diadems kissing the feet of the Lord before
him broke into a song.
Brahma’s Vision
I bow to thee Lord, thy body is of condensed light
With thy garlands, flute and wand
These you have assumed for your devotees
And to bless me too by removing all pride and ego
Vast learning and penance are riddled with needless pain
Most effective are the ways of these simple gopis
And they are pleasant too
I am but a spark of that mighty flame thou art
Pardon me my pride. Even as a mother
Pardons the kicks of her unborn babe.
Narayana thou art the soul and support
Of all beings. I am so feeble and thou so great
Through thine every pore swarm forth spheres
Each as big or bigger than this earth
Our reason fails; but we can feel that
You are beyond reason, you are too real
Now permit me to retire Lord and May this
scene I saw today give me strength
And power to do your work.
Parikshit’s Doubt
The king now asked Sri Suka “O! Maharshi! How is it that
everyone felt such great love for Krishna? Even more than they
felt for their own children?”. The Rishi replied “O! Rajan! To
every one his own soul is dearer than anything else. Krishna is
the universal soul and that is why he is dearest to everyone though
they do not know the real reason because of the Lord’s Maya. If
crossing the Maya, one realizes the Truth that He is everything
and everywhere then this samsara ( transient world) is easily
crossed. He who reads this story of Krishna will attain all
purposes of life“
CHAPTER 16
ÓeÓe}èe çeen¼ne²[Neëe: f}eÓeen Neº¡ es =e§etNtNtNeÓe©úúÓeen çeÑá©ççee½eúeμμeÓeen >
¼eeÑèeejëeÞÓeen,n, úef×ef§e: úeμex çeonnNeïÞoeNeÞex
çe²©ëeμeÓerNe èeéàÓe: ©>>
The Death of Dhenuka
As they were past the sixth year Rama and Krishna were
entrusted with the grazing of the bigger cows. The lawns and hill
slopes and forests were in full bloom. A cool breeze, fragrant
with the scent of the blooming lotus flowers in the ponds fanned
their cheeks. A veritable paradise was this Brindavan. Krishna
said “O! Brother, these trees laden with fruits bend before you in
obeisance and the waving branches beckon you to their shade.
The larks are singing your praise and look at the deer! Are they
not looking at you with the eyes of gopis in adoration! Surely these
cuckoos that sing your praises must be sages born again because
they wanted to be here to adore you. The very grass you tread is
thicker.”
Thus Krishna moved about among the trees which bloomed
afresh in his presence
Cracking jokes, laughing and making others laugh
Sudama and other gopas, all his bosom friends
Cried “Krishna! O! Krishna! Inhale this smell
How Sweet! It is from the palm trees yonder
We yearn to taste its fruits but dare not go near
Dhenuka, the cannibal guards it. How sweet are the fruits!
Rama laughed loud and entering the grove
Shook the trees with such force
Sk10. Ch 15 - Slokam 1
The sweet fruits fell in showers covering the ground
The gopas had their fill; their eyes beamed
But Dhenuka the ass came galloping
And like the ass he was, reared on his haunches
to strike at them. But Balarama caught him
by the legs and whirling him fast and faster
threw him at the tree which broke
And that hit another palm and that another
Covering the entire ground with honeyed fruits
The happy gopas had their fill and
Thanked Rama and Krishna all the more
The cows and calves now grazed in peace
And as night approached they returned to the village
Anointed themselves with unguents and oils
Had their bath and a sumptuous meal
and rested for the night.
Early next morning Krishna rose and bathed
And performed the morning rites and
With the flocks and without Balarama
Went out to the river bank.
Kaliya Mardanam
A black serpent of gigantic size, named Kaliya had taken
up its residence in a cavern at the bottom of river Yamuna. It had
poisoned the water and the black fumes curling up withered the
leaves of a kadamba tree on the bank. No fish could live in that
poisoned water and even birds flying overhead, died and fell. The
cows drinking the water were stretched dead on the bank and
even the gopas who had unwittingly entered the water were lying
unconscious practically dead. Krishna, reaching the banks alone,
took in the situation at a glance. Girding up his clothes he mounted
the withered kadamba tree. It sprouted at his touch and the cows
and gopas too revived as his life giving glance fell on them.
Then taking a mighty leap he plunged
The waters sprayed and overflowed the banks
A hundred feet and closed over his devoted head
The gopas and cows stared distraught
Hot tears flowing down their cheeks
But they knew not the power of his mighty arms
Or his yogic powers. For a moment he wrestled
The deadly serpent tightened his coils
But the Lord in a trice shrunk himself
And the coils slipped and like the full moon
He emerged and began to dance
And what a dance! The celestials
With pipe and drum were dancing overhead
With his hoods all dripping poison
Kaliya wriggled and tried to bite
But ere it could bite, Krishna’s foot was down
The serpent hissed and raised another hood
Again Krishna’s foot was down and the
Waters glowed with rainbow colours
His anger and spite, thus trampled out
Kaliya began to pray with his numerous wives and kin,
around.
The Women’s Prayer
Mercy O! Lord! Mercy
This wicked lord of ours has
but got his deserts. It is his nature
Serpents are cruel and angry by nature
And You are the lord of nature.
Are you not merciful It behoves you
to forgive the sins. And we, the wives
and these the children have done no wrong.
Save us from widow hood, kind Lord and
Let the serpent live.
Krishna stopped his dance and relieved from the terrific
trampling the serpent said:
“Lord! Pardon, Pardon
We are but creatures of darkness
Nature has made us cruel and vengeful
And you, the Lord of nature, have made us all
Pardon or destroy us all as you will.
Willingly, we accept whatever you ordain.
Krishna said, “ Leave these waters and go to the island
Ramanaka and live in peace. Garuda will not trouble you there.
The waters of Yamuna will be pure and nectar like to cows and
cowherds and all good people who may be coming in future. And
you must promise one thing more. He who reads this with faith
should be free from snake bite in future”. The serpent promised
and left.
Previous Story Of Kaliya
Kaliya with other serpents used to live in the island of
Ramanaka. All the serpents used to make presents and sacrifices
to Garuda (Lord’s mount) to get immunity from his attack. But
Kaliya proud of his strength, alone resisted. He even dared to
misappropriate the presents made by the other serpents. A fight
ensued and Kaliya had to flee. Luckily there was a cavern in the
yamuna immune to Garuda’s attack. This immunity was obtained
in the following manner. Garuda used to attack and eat all the
fish whenever he could find them. In despair they appealed to
sage Sabari whose ashram was on the banks of Yamuna. The
sage out of his mercy placed an interdict “Who ever catches the
fish in the cavern will perish. My curse is true, it will stand.” So
Garuda would not go near that cavern any more. Taking advantage
of this interdict, Kaliya made it his habitat until he was sent back
to Ramanaka.
The Summer Season — Pralamba’s Attack
Balarama was a silent witness of Krishna’s exploits. He
was not too excited as he knew Krishna’s powers. The gopas
and gopis were actually incarnations of devas and devis but they
137
were not aware of Krishna’s true nature. Carrying him shoulder
high they brought him to the village amid great rejoicings. It was
summer; the sun was high but because of the trees and luxuriant
foliage it looked like spring. A cool breeze laden with the scent of
opening water lilies and lotuses took away the heat and birds of
many hues flitting hither and thither among the tree tops seemed
to sing hymns in praise of their Maker. Next morning after the
day’s ablutions the boys headed by Krishna and Balarama again
entered the forest. They were in a playful mood. Dividing
themselves in batches they played many ingenious games such as
the blind men’s buff or catch the thief or wrestling matches at
which most of them were experts. The vanquished should carry
the victor on his shoulders and set him down at the foot of a huge
banyan tree. There were two parties, one led by Balarama and
the other by Krishna. The demon Pralamba had entered the group
unnoticed in the shape of a cowherd boy. He easily allowed
himself to be defeated by Balarama and had to carry Balarama
on his shoulders. Krishna was defeated by Sudama and Krishna
gladly bore him on his shoulders. The demon’s plan was to run
away with Balrama out of Brindavan altogether. Krishna had
earlier pointed out to Balrama and he was prepared. The Asura
carrying Balarama ran beyond the tree and assuming his real form,
rose in the air. Balarama tightened his grip on the Asura’s throat.
His eyes began to bulge. Balarama gave him such a fierce knock.
He fell vomiting blood. The gopas who had come rushing to help,
lifted Balarama on their shoulders and returned singing his praises.
Saved From The Forest Fire
As the cowherds were gradually recovering from this
confusion, the cows had strayed deeper into the forest. Krishna
then played on his flute and the cows responded by bellowing.
Somehow the gopas rejoined their flock but another fearful disaster
faced them. Due to the extreme heat the tall grass had caught
fire. It spread rapidly enveloping the gopas and their flock. In
this dire calamity the gopas could only pray. “Save us your
dependents Lord! Otherwise we perish!” Krishna told them to
close their eyes. They did so and Krishna the great yogi, drank
the forest fire. “Now open your eyes” said Krishna. They did so
and lo! the fire had gone. The gopas were astounded at this
miracle and said “It is certain that Krishna and Balarama are gods!
And they returned to the village dancing to the enthralling music
issuing from the flutes.
The Rainy Season
After the intense summer, the rainy season set in. The sky
was suddenly overcast with dark bluish clouds interspersed with
lightning even as Brahmam is covered by the gunas of
prakriti.Whatever water they had collected during eight months
of heat the clouds now released at the proper time for the benefit
of the people.The great clouds lashed by the wind released their
water to the delight of all people as the king releases the taxes
collected for the benefit of subjects. Just as person who had
become lean after great austerities becomes plump again when
they are over, the earth again became soft and fertile after the
rains. As the glowworms shine in cloudy nights clouding the stars
even so false philosophies raise their head obscuring godly faith in
this age of Kali. Hearing the music of the rain, frogs began their
rhythmic croak even as the disciples do when the Acharya has
ended his lesson.
The little streams till now unnoticed, now overflowed their
banks cluttered with rubbish even as the wealth of a foolish man
in prosperous times. The ground covered with green grass and
flowers of various hues resembled the attire of men in prosperity.
The rich harvest brought pleasure to the poor farmers and anxiety
about their disposal to the rich. All the creatures on land and
water wore a festive appearance as devotees do while adoring
the Lord. As the rivers entered the sea they became agitated
with waves as novices entering Tapas are agitated by turbulent
feelings.The mountains though battered by the rains were
motionless and unaffected even as those good people whose
attention is fixed on the Lord are not affected even when
surrounded and attacked by misfortunes. The pathways, covered
by weeds and grass became indistinct even as the Vedas became
unclear through neglect and lack of study in course of time. The
lightning deserted those great benefactors, the clouds just as
unfaithful women desert even good husbands . Just as the stringless
rainbow manifests in the sky the Lord without attributes manifests
in the world of attributes.
The moon is hidden by the clouds which are revealed by
the moon’s light only and similarly the Atman is hidden by the ‘I’
sense which can be revealed by Atman’s light alone. As peacocks
suffering from drought dance with delight at the sight of clouds
portending rain so too householders suffering from the miseries of
the world, rejoice at the coming of the saints bringing the word of
God Drinking water through their feet (roots) the parched trees
sprouted shoots and flowers just as the ascetics who had become
thin and famished during Tapas, again became full and prosperous
through service to the Lord. Though the waters were disturbed
and receding in summer, the water birds continued to stay due to
their greed for fish just as, unmindful of their misfortunes worldly
people still persist in their luckless acts.
The torrential rains washed away the banks and bunds just
as the vedic rules and laws are broken by atheists and unbelievers.
Driven by the wind the clouds released the rain for people’s benefit
as kings release the taxes for their subjects , guided by the advice
of sages.
In this rainy season the forests were full of heavily laden
palm trees and rose apples . Krishna, Balarama and cowherd
boys entered it with intent to play. The cows with heavy udders,
moving slowly, quickened their pace, hearing Krishna’s flute. The
forest dwellers too were happy; the trees gave them all they
wanted and there were many cosy caves around. Entering them
they put the curd rice and pickles on leaf plates, spread on dry
slabs and dined to their hearts content; the cows lying a little away
chewing the cud.
Thus ended the rainy season.
Autumn
The Autumn season now dawned with clear skies and a
mild wind. The lotus bloomed everywhere in ponds whose waters
were crystal clear again, like the minds of yogis practicing yoga.
The earth was free of mud and vegetation and became pure and
more green as devotion to Krishna purifies the mind. Deprived of
water the clouds shone in white brilliance like the minds of sages
who have shed the three sins of longing for wealth, sons and
felicities. The creatures of the deep were unaware of the gradual
drying up of water even as family men are unconscious of their
life span decreasing day-by-day. Slowly the ground gave up its
moisture and the leafy bowers their greenery as wise men give up
their egoism in perishing things.
The ocean became calm as autumn advanced as a wise
man becomes calm when he advances in spirituality. The farmers
put up bunds in fields to prevent water flowing away as yogis
conserve their energy by preventing them from flowing out in
vain.The heat of the autumn sun was removed by the cool rays of
the moon just as pride in the physical beauty was removed by
Krishna. The starlit cloudless sky shone at night as the satvic mind
is illuminated by the words of the Vedas. In the broad expanse of
the sky the moon shone attended by the stars even as Krishna
encircled by the vrishnis (cowherds) shone on earth.
The forest breeze brought relief to the gopas but not to the
gopis whose hearts were stolen by Krishna. All flowers like the
lotus raised their heads when the sun rose except the lily, which
blooms only with the moon, just as all the subjects are happy when
a good king rules except the thieves.
With a bumper harvest, villages and towns hummed with
festivities more joyous than usual because of the presence of Rama
and Krishna.
| Tales from Bhagavatham(Contents) |  |
| Preface | |
| Prologue | |
| Chapters 1,2,3,4 | |
| Chapters 5,6,7,8 | |
| Chapters 9,10,11,12 | |
| Chapters 13,14,14,16 | |
| Chapters 17,18,19,20 | |
| Chapters 21,22,23 | |
| Chapters 24,25,26 | |
| Contact Me | |
| Guestbook | |
| Om! namo Bhagavathe Vasudevaya |