Stories from Scriptures # 31 - Satyakama, the truthful(2/2)

Satyakama, the truthful - Story from Chhandogya Upanishad

 Part 2 of 2

One day a bull among them spoke to him: "Satyakama! Now the cows are a thousand in number. Take them to your Guru. I shall teach you 'a fourth' about Brahman or God. His name is Prakasavan. Agni, the God of fire, will teach you more later."

And he taught Satyakama a quarter of the sacred truth.

Accordingly, Jabala drove the cows to the Guru's ashrama.

He stopped on the way for the night and lighted a fire to warm himself.

From that fire God Agni appeared before him and said: "Satyakama! I shall teach you the second quarter of the sacred truth about Brahman. He is called Anantavan."

And he taught him another quarter of the sacred knowledge. Accordingly, Jabala drove the cows to the Guru's ashrama.

On the following evening Satyakama stayed near a lake along with the cows.

At that time a swan came flying from the waters and said, "Satyakama! I shall teach you the third quarter of Brahman. He is called Jyotishman." And he taught him more of the sacred truth. On the following day, he stayed beneath a peepal tree.

In the evening a waterfowl came before him and said: "Satyakama! I shall teach you the fourth and last part of Brahamn.

And he taught him the fourth part, naming it "Ayatanavan."

When Satyakama reached the Guru's ashram with the thousand cows, the Guru asked: "Child, your face shines with Brahma Gyana or the knowledge of Brahman. Who taught you?"

Satyakama told him about his four teachers and said: "Sire, I now request you to teach me personally Brahma - Gyana. Then only will it be perfect."

The rishi said: "Child! whatever you have learnt is real Brahma Gyana. There is little else that I can add. I bless you!"

By serving the Guru faithfully one gets real spiritual knowledge.

This story is told in the great Upanishad called Chhandogya.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 30 - Satyakama, the truthful

Satyakama, the truthful - Story from Chhandogya Upanishad

Part 1 of 2

One day a young boy came to the ashrama of Sage Gautama and said: "Holy Sire, I want to get the sacred knowledge by serving you. Please accept me as your student."

The sage asked: "Child, What is your gotra?" (Gotra is one's family name).

The boy replied: "Sire, I asked it of my mother. She said: 'Child, when you were born, I used to be very busy serving guests at home. I had no time to ask the gotra from your father. Now he is no more. So I do not know it. My name is Jabala and yours, Satyakama. So call yourself Satya- kama -Jabala and say that to your Guru."

On hearing it, the rishi smiled and said: "I admire you, child, for saying the truth. I am sure you must be born of a noble gotra. I shall accept you as my student. Go and get me some samid. I shall initiate you in brahmacharya."

The twigs of the sacred peepal tree are called samid.

For studying the sastras, one has to become a brahmachari. And the teacher has to be paid in kind like samid for his service.

The boy brought the samid, and the guru made him a brahmachari by giving him the sacred thread and the Gayatri Mantra. This mantra says: "O God, give me intelligence!"

After a few days, the rishi gave the boy four hundred lean and ill fed cows and said: "Child, take these to the forest and graze them."

The boy said: "Sire, I shall return when these cows multiply into a thousand."

Satyakama built an ashrama for himself in the forest and looked after the cows. All the time he carefully practised the duties of a brahmachari.

Years went by. The number of cows increased to a thousand. 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 29 - Uddalaka and Svetaketu (3/3)

Uddalaka and Svetaketu - story from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

Part 3 of 3

Svetaketu "I am unable to find the salt; for it has dissolved."

Uddalaka "Taste a drop from the surface of this water." Svetaketu "It is saltish."

Uddalaka "Now taste a drop from the middle of the cup."

Svetaketu "It tastes the same, saltish."

Uddalaka: "Now taste a drop from the bottom."

Svetaketu "It is saltish all the same."

Uddalaka "Now child, you do not see the salt, although it is certainly in the water. Even so, the True Being is present everywhere in this universe, although you do not see Him. He is the essence of all, and the desired of all. He is known to the subtlest intellect."

Svetaketu became humble thereafter, and became a great rishi himself in course of time. This is a story from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad.  

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 28 - Uddalaka and Svetaketu (2/3)

Uddalaka and Svetaketu - story from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

 

Part 2 of 3

 

The red colour of the Sun is Tejas; its white colour is water; its black colour is the food or the earth. Thus the name Aditya for Sun should vanish. It is only a conventional name. "You have now learnt from me, child, how every deity and element is descended from the three primary forms of the True Being.

"He or the Sat alone is all-name, because every name is His name.

He alone is all-power, because every power is His. All the forms that belong to others are reflections of His form. He is the only one without an equal or second. He is the best of all. He being the Chief, He is called Sat or the True Being. Knowing Him we know everything else. When a man sleeps soundly, he comes into contact with the Sat. When man dies, his speech merges in the mind, the mind in his breath, his breath in the fire and the fire in the Highest God, the True Being. Thus the soul or Jiva-Atman is deathless. All the universe is controlled by the Sat. He pervades it all. He is the destroyer of all. He is full of perfect qualities. O Svetaketu, you are not that God.

Svetaketu asked, "Sire, please teach me more."

Uddalaka said, "The bees, my child, collect the honey from different flowers and mix them in the hive. Now, honeys of different flowers cannot know one from the other.

"My child, the rivers that run in the different directions rise from the sea and go back to the sea. Yet the sea remains the same. The rivers, while in the sea, cannot identify themselves as one particular river or another. So also creatures that have come from Sat know not that they have come from that Sat, although they become one or the other again and again."

Uddalaka then asked his son to bring a fig fruit. When he did so, Uddalaka asked him to break it. He broke it.

Uddalaka: "What do you see in it?"

Svetaketu "I see small seeds."

Uddalaka "Break one of the seeds and say what you see."

Svetaketu "Nothing Sir."

Uddalaka: "You are unable to see the minute particles of the seed after breaking it. Now, the big fig tree is born out of that essence of that particle. Like that, the True Being is the essence of all creation. " Uddalaka asked his son to bring some salt and put it into a cup of water and bring the cup next morning.

Svetaketu did so.

Uddalaka: "You put the salt into the water in this cup. Will you take the salt out?  

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 27 - Uddalaka and Svetaketu (1/3)

Uddalaka and Svetaketu - story from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

 

Part 1 of 3 

Uddalaka was a great rishi. He had a son by name Svetaketu.

After giving him the sacred thread at the proper age, the rishi called him one day and said, "Svetaketu, proceed to the house of a guru and living there as a student, learn the Vedas well; for, there is none in our family who is not learned in the Vedas."

As directed by his father, Svetaketu went to a gurukula or the ashrama of a guru and studied the Vedas under the guru. He returned home when he was twenty-four years of age, a proud scholar. He thought that there remained little else for him to know.

His father was a shrewd man. He at once knew that his son's head was swollen with pride. He wanted to correct him.

One day he called him and said, "Son, I think you feel you have mastered all knowledge on the face of the earth; but, have you ever learnt that knowledge, by which we can hear what is not heard; perceive what cannot be perceived, and know what cannot be known?"

Svetaketu was a trifle upset. He asked humbly, "Sire, won't you tell me what that knowledge is? Seeing that his son was coming round, the father said, "My dear, let me explain myself fully. When, for instance, you know one clod of Clay, you can know all that is made of clay. When you know a nugget of gold, you can know all ornaments made of gold, because the essence of it is gold. When you know a nail-cutter, you can know all that is made of iron, the truth being that all of them are iron. The only difference is in their names and forms. That is the knowledge I am talking about." Svetaketu said, "Sir, my venerable gurus did not perhaps know it.

Had they known, why would they have not taught it to me? Please teach it to me." '

Uddalaka said, "All right. I shall teach you;- listen. In the beginning of creation, O child, the Sat or True Being alone existed. It had neither equal nor second. It thought, 'Let me multiply myself and create beings.' He first created Tejas or fire god. The fire god wanted to multiply himself. He created the water god. That is why whenever anybody weeps or perspires, water comes out. The water god wanted to multiply himself and created the food god. Then the True Being thought, 'I have now created these three gods. Now I shall enter them as Jivatma and assume name and form!'

'Later on, the True Being thought, 'I shall now make each of them enter into the other.' "Having thus entered them with His living spirit, It assumed names and forms like Agni, Indra etc. The True Being made them enter into one another, again. 0 child, now learn what each became thereafter. Whatever was fire showed as red. Whatever was water showed as white and whatever was food showed as black. Thus you will see the word Agni vanishes in fire. This change has only been in name. The three primary forms Tejas, Apas or water and Annam or food are the only true forms. 

 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 26 - Savitri (3/3)

Story of Savitri

Part 3 of 3

Savitri looked up. Coming through the woods to meet them was a princely man. He shone, though his skin was darker than the darkest night. His eyes and his robe were the red of blood.

Trembling, Savitri asked, "Who are you?"

A deep, gentle voice replied. "Princess, you see me only by the power of your prayer and fasting. I am Yama, god of death. Now is the time I must take the spirit of Satyavan."

Yama took a small noose and passed it through Satyavan's breast, as if through air. He drew out a tiny likeness of Satyavan, no bigger than a thumb.

Satyavan's breathing stopped.

Yama placed the likeness inside his robe. "Happiness awaits your husband in my kingdom. Satyavan is a man of great virtue."

Then Yama turned and headed south, back to his domain.

Savitri rose and started after him. Yama strode smoothly and swiftly through the woods, while Savitri struggled to keep up. At last, he stopped to face her. "Savitri! You cannot follow to the land of the dead!"

"Lord Yama," said Savitri, "I know your duty is to take my husband. But my duty as his wife is to stay beside him."

"Princess, that duty is at an end," said Yama. "Still, I admire your loyalty. I will grant you a favor -- anything but the life of your husband."

Savitri said, "Please restore my father-in-law's kingdom and his sight."

"His sight and his kingdom shall be restored." Yama again headed south. Savitri followed.

Along a river bank, thorns and tall sharp grass let Yama pass untouched. But they tore at Savitri's clothes and skin.

"Savitri! You have come far enough!"

"Lord Yama, I know my husband will find happiness in your kingdom. But you carry away the happiness that is mine!"

"Princess, even love must bend to fate," said Yama. "Still, I admire your devotion. I will grant you another favor -- anything but the life of your husband."

Savitri said, "Grant many more children to my father."

"Your father shall have many more children."

Yama once more turned south. Again, Savitri followed.

Up a steep hill Yama glided, while Savitri clambered after him. At the top, he halted.

"Savitri! I forbid you to come farther!"

"Lord Yama, you are respected and revered by all. Yet, no matter what may come, I will remain by Satyavan!"

"Princess, I tell you for the last time, you will not!" said Yama. "Still, I can only admire your courage and your firmness. I will grant you one last favor -- anything but the life of your husband."

"Then grant many children to me" said Savitri. "And let them be children of Satyavan!" Yama's eyes grew wide as he stared at Savitri. "You did not ask for your husband's life, yet I cannot grant your wish without releasing him. Princess! Your wit is as strong as your will."

Yama took out the spirit of Satyavan and removed the noose. The spirit flew north, quickly vanishing from sight. "Return, Savitri. You have won your husband's life."

The sun was just setting when Savitri again laid Satyavan's head in her lap.

His chest rose and fell. His eyes opened.

"Is the day already gone? I have slept long," he said. "But what is wrong , my love? You smile and cry at the same time!"

"My love," said Savitri, "let us return home."

Yama was true to all he had promised. Savitri's father became father to many more. Satyavan's father regained both sight and kingdom.

In time, Satyavan became king, and Savitri his queen. They lived long an happily, blessed with many children. So they had no fear or tears when Yama came again to carry them to his kingdom.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 25 - Savitri (2/3)

Story of Savitri

Part 2 of 3

Satyavan was overjoyed to be offered such a bride. But his father, the blind king, asked Savitri, "Can you bear the hard life of the hermitage? Will you wear our simple robe and our coat of matted bark? Will you eat only fruit and plants of the wild?"

Savitri said, "I care nothing about comfort or hardship. In palace or in hermitage, I am content."

That very day, Savitri and Satyavan walked hand in hand around the sacred fire in the hall of worship. In front of all the priests and hermits, they became husband and wife.

For a year, they lived happily. But Savitri could never forget that Satyavan's death drew closer.

Finally, only three days remained. Savitri entered the hall of worship and faced the sacred fire. There she prayed for three days and nights, not eating or sleeping.

"My love," said Satyavan, "prayer and fasting are good. But why be this hard on yourself?"

Savitri gave no answer.

The sun was just rising when Savitri at last left the hall. She saw Satyavan heading for the forest, an ax on his shoulder.

Savitri rushed to his side. "I will come with you."

"Stay here, my love," said Satyavan. "You should eat and rest."

But Savitri said, "My heart is set on going."

Hand in hand, Savitri and Satyavan walked over wooded hills. They smelled the blossoms on flowering trees and paused beside clear streams. The cries of peacocks echoed through the woods.

While Savitri rested, Satyavan chopped firewood from a fallen tree. Suddenly, he dropped his ax.

"My head aches," he said.

Savitri rushed to him. She laid him down in the shade of a tree, his head on her lap.

"My body is burning!" said Satyavan. "What is wrong with me?"

Satyavan's eyes closed. His breathing slowed.

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 24 - Savitri (1/3)

to be

Story of Savitri

Part 1 of 3

In India, in the time of legend, there lived a king with many wives but not one child. Morning and evening for eighteen years, he faced the fire on the sacred altar and prayed for the gift of children.

Finally, a shining goddess rose from the flames.

"I am Savitri, child of the Sun. By your prayers, you have won a daughter."

Within a year, a daughter came to the king and his favorite wife. He named her Savitri, after the goddess.

Beauty and intelligence were princess Savitri's, and eyes that shone like the sun. So splendid was she, people thought she herself was a goddess. Yet, when the time came for her to marry, no man asked for her.

Her father told her, "Weak men turn away from radiance like yours. Go out and find a man worthy of you. Then I will arrange the marriage."

In the company of servants and councilors, Savitri traveled from place to place. After many days, she came upon a hermitage by a river crossing. Here lived many who had left the towns and cities for a life of prayer and study.

Savitri entered the hall of worship and bowed to the eldest teacher. As they spoke, a young man with shining eyes came into the hall. He guided another man, old and blind.

"Who is that young man?" asked Savitri softly.

"That is Prince Satyavan," said the teacher, with a smile. "He guides his father, a king whose realm was conquered. It is well that Satyavan's name means 'Son of Truth,' for no man is richer in virtue."

When Savitri returned home, she found her father sitting with the holy seer named Narada.

"Daughter," said the king, "have you found a man you wish to marry?"

"Yes, father," said Savitri. "His name is Satyavan."

Narada gasped. "Not Satyavan! Princess, no man could be more worthy, but you must not marry him! I know the future. Satyavan will die, one year from today."

The king said, "Do you hear, daughter? Choose a different husband!"

Savitri trembled but said, "I have chosen Satyavan, and I will not choose another. However long or short his life, I wish to share it."

Soon the king rode with Savitri to arrange the marriage. 

(continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 23 - Devavrat

King Shantanu was a famous king of Hastinapur. He was married to Gangadevi, who gave birth to a son, Devavrat. On account of her past life's karma, she went to Heaven leaving Devavrat in his father's care. He was taught the Vedas, and the Puranas, and also archery, by the greatest archer of the time, Parshuram. Devavrat learned from his father how to rule the kingdom following the ideals of truth and justice. Devavrat was trained in every way to take up the throne. King Shantanu in due time enthroned Devavrat as the Crown Prince. Devavrat looked after his subjects with love and kindness.

One day, King Shantanu went out on a hunting expedition and saw a very charming young girl. She was the daughter of a fisherman named Dashraj. Her name was Satyavati. He asked her hand in marriage, but she replied telling him to ask her father for her hand. When he sent messengers to her father asking for her hand in marriage, the shrewd old fisherman would not relent. He asked, “Shantanu is not young any more. Who would care for my daughter, were he to die?”

King Shantanu decided to go in person and tried to persuade him with promises of riches and rewards, but the fisherman was  adamant. “Nothing less than the throne for my daughter Satyavati and her descendants is acceptable,” he said stubbornly. Dashraj was keeping the future interest of his daughter in mind. Shantanu thought that he couldn't harm his beloved son Devavrat's future of whom he was so proud, yet he longed to marry Satyavati. He couldn't bear this dilemma and this caused the king to be sick. He spent all his time alone, he wouldn't speak to any one.

Devavrat saw that his father was always sad. He inquired of his father and got no answer. Devavrat went to inquire the reason from the charioteer who disclosed everything. In order to keep his father happy, Devavrat went to see Satyavati's father Dashraj and promised that for his father's sake he would give up the throne. “This is my vow and I shall be true to it,” he said assuring Dashraj who was still worried. He said, “You will keep your oath alright, but your son will fight my daughter's son for the throne. What will happen then?” But Devavrat immediately set Dishrag's fear at ease, saying, “I take another oath, I swear in the name of my parents, I shall never marry. This is my firm vow.” Upon hearing this, Dashraj gladly agreed to his daughter's marriage with the king.

As young Devavrat, took this pledge, the heavens opened and the gods cried out “Bhishma!”, as they showered flowers upon him to honor his selfless resolve. Ever since then, Devavrat was known as Bhishma or the one who makes and keeps a great vow. When Devavrat took his new mother Satyavati to his father, King Shantanu was amazed when he heard about his son's vows. He was full of praise for him. His father granted him a boon, “Death will not come to you unless you give your explicit permission to it, and Death will wait upon you with folded hands.” Satyavati married King Shantanu and bore him two sons, Chitrangada and Vichitraveerya. After King Shantanu died, they ruled the kingdom.

Bhishma (Devavrat) kept up with his promises until the end of his life. He lived for 4 generations. He protected the kingdom of Hastinapur and its kings from all odds but never ever desired for a throne, though he deserved it. Later, in the Mahabharata war, just to keep up the promise, he had to support evil Duryodhana as he was the prince of Hastinapur kingdom. Being wounded by Arjuna during the Mahabharata war, Bhishma desired to embrace death on the day of Makar-Sankranti.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 22 - Bhageerath

King Sagar was one of the greatest kings of Ancient Bharat (India). He was the ancestor of King Dasharath and Lord Rama (Incarnation of Sree Vishnu). In those days, kings used to perform Ashwamedha Yajna to prove their supremacy over others. Once, king Sagar, too, performed a Ashwamedha Yajna to become the king of the entire world. He deserved it anyway!!  

But, Lord Indra was jealous and fearful over the results of the Yajna. He decided to stop the Yajna by stealing the horse of the Yajna that was sent around the earth, as a symbol of victory. In an act of jealousy, Lord Indra kidnapped the horse and hid it in Kapil Muni's hermitage.

When learnt that the horse is kidnapped, King Sagar's hundreds of sons along with the entourage of warriors went to search. They found the horse of the Yajna in Kapil Muni's Ashram. They mistook Sage Kapil to be the abductor and attacked him. Kapil Muni became enraged that King Sagar's sons were attacking him for no apparent reason; he burnt all of them to ashes. 

King Sagar was worried about his sons' salvation. Pacified Kapil Muni advised that the holy river Ganga could give them salvation. The waters of the holy river Ganga would miraculously bring back the dead princes to life. It should be brought down to the Earth from the heaven. King Sagar's son Dilip tried his best, but could not succeed. His grandson Anshuman succeeded upto some limit but could not give them salvation.

Bhageerath was another grandson of King Sagar. He heard about the plight of his father and uncles. 

Bhageerath resolved to bring Ganga to the Earth from the Heaven to purify the ashes of his ancestors and bring them back to life.

He performed severe penance to please Lord Brahma who came to bless him and grant him the desired boon. Ganga was allowed to come down to Earth. The only problem was that the force of its current was too great for Earth to withstand. Fearing a catastrophe, Bhageerath prayed to Lord Shiva, who held out his matted hair to catch the river as she descended. From this point onward, Lord Shiva is also known as Gangadhara. River Ganga then gently followed Bhageerath as he came to the hermitage of Sage Jahnu's ashram. Sage Jahnu, who was in a state of meditation inside the ashram, had been disrupted in his penance. 

He became enraged and swallowed Ganga in a single gulp.

Bhageerath offered his prayers to Sage Jahnu who finally released Ganga. As a result Ganga is also known by the name of Jahnavi.

Finally, Bhageerath overcame all the obstacles in the process of releasing Ganga. He patiently led Ganga down to the sea where Kapil Muni was residing. Holy Ganga then bathed the remains of the King Sagar's sons, offered salvation to the souls of them and merged into the sea-water. Thus the sea where Ganga merges is called as “Ganga Sagar”.

Ganga is also known as Bhageerathi because her coming to the Earth was by the continued sacrifices and efforts of Bhageerath.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 21 - Nachiketa

A while ago, there once lived a little boy named Nachiketa. He was the son of Rishi Udalak. Once, Rishi Udalak organized a yagna (a type of puja) to please the gods and gain a heaven. It was a custom in those days to donate cows to Brahmins at the end of the yagna. Udalak was a miser and he donated old and weak cows to the Brahmins. Since the cows were old and weak, they hardly yielded any milk. Nachiketa was puzzled by his father's action. “What does he mean  by all this?” he said to himself. “What happened to all the useful cows? What does my father gain by gifting such useless cows? This is no, less than committing a sin. It is actually cheating. He should be gifting the things which are dear-ones. He intends to gain heaven by performing the sacrifice. But he will go to Hell instead through such actions.” 

He asked his father about this, “Father, to whom will you give me to as charity or gift?” This made his father very angry, but he decided not to say anything and got engaged in preparation of gifting ceremony. When Nachiketa repeated the question, Udalak lost his temper and said, “Get away from here. I will give you to Yama, God of Death.” Yama is the king of Yamapuri and also the God of Death. “I should fulfill his wish,” thought Nachiketa, even if it means leaving home and embracing death. Obeying his father, Nachiketa went to Yama's kingdom. It would not be proper for him to disobey his father.

His father, however, realized his mistake, but it was too late. He muttered, “Shame upon my anger! I should never have uttered those words. What will befall me now? I have asked death for my son!” With a blank head and a heavy heart he sat down and tried to stop Nichaketa.

But Nachiketa did not stop. He said, “Father! I must see Yama to obey your order.” He reached Yama's kingdom but was told by Yama's guards that he had gone out for three days. Nachiketa decided to wait at his doorstep until he returned. He waited for three days without any food or water. He basically fasted for three days!

Finally, Yama returned on the fourth day and saw little Nachiketa at his doorstep. He was saddened that he kept a Brahmin waiting without welcoming him and not giving him food and water. It was very bad not to welcome an atithi (guest) at the doorstep. He yelled at his wife, Yami for not welcoming him. The both of them rushed around the house to serve little Nachiketa. One of them went to fetch water while the other brought a mat for him to sit on.

Yama still did not feel completely satisfied in serving him, so he told Nachiketa, “Dear child, I have offended you by keeping you waiting for three days. To wash my sin I request you to ask for three boons.” 

Nachiketa answered to Yama by saying, “My first wish is that when I return home, may my father welcome me lovingly. My second wish is to grant me the knowledge so that I can be worthy of living in the heavens. My third and last wish is to grant me Atma-vidya (knowledge of the atma).” 

Yama granted Nachiketa the first two boons immediately but tried to convince Nachiketa to give up his third wish. He offered Nachiketa gold, pearls, coins, horses, elephants and even the happiness of Swarg (heaven) instead. But Nachiketa firmly said, “No, I do not wish for anything else.” Finally, Yama granted him the third boon too, and Nachiketa was enlightened with the  knowledge of the atma (soul).

Nachiketa returned back to his parents. His father embraced his son with open arms and said, “My dear son, please forgive me.” Mother overwhelmed with joy, enquired, “Dear child! How did you acquire this luster on your face?” Nachiketa narrated the entire story to all those assembled. Praise was showered on Nachiketa for his achievement.

The story of little Nachiketa teaches us to be kind to all creatures, to respect one's parents and to be strong willed to do something that has been decided. Even if it means facing difficulties and obstacles, one should stick to their decision. It always  teaches to search for eternal happiness.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 20 - Bhakta Prahlad (3/3)

Story of Bhakta Prahlad

Part 3 of 3

Little Prahlad could not even finish his words when his angry father hit the pillar with his mace. As soon as the mace touched the pillar, it broke with a thundering sound. Everyone who was present in the court panicked. They saw a creature emerging from the pillar. It had the face of a lion and a human body. Emerging from the broken pillar was the avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu as Narsimha. Narsimha roared angrily. The demon king Hiranyakashipu tried his best to escape from Narsimha. But at last, Narsimha caught hold of him and dragged him towards the threshold. There, he put Hiranyakashipu on thighs and tore his belly with his terrifying nails.

The anger of Narsimha did not subside even after killing Hiranyakashipu. He was still roaring repeatedly. Lord Brahma, Lord Shankar and even Goddess Lakshmi prayed to Lord Narsimha from a distance but no one had the courage to go near him. Finally, Brahma sent Prahlad near Narsimha to calm him down. Fearlessly, Prahlad went near Narsimha and laid himself flat at his feet. Affectionately, the Lord in Narsimha form raised Prahlad and embraced him and said: “O son Prahlad, you had to bear the sufferings for so long. Please forgive me.”

Prahlad felt overwhelmed. The lord of the universe was standing before him and was stroking his head in assuring way. Prahlad bowed his head faithfully. Lord Narsimha then asked Prahlad to seek some boon. Prahlad said: “You are my true Lord. If you wish to grant me a boon, kindly bless me that no desire may arise in my mind for anything.” 

Prahlad also prayed to Lord Narsimha for his father, asking him, “O Lord, my father had always criticized you. Please free him from the sins he has committed.” Lord Narsimha replied saying, “Prahlad, your father has now become holy.” Lord Narsimha promised Prahlad that he would never kill any of his descendents. Lord Narsimha then escorted Prahlad to the throne of his father and made him sit on it, instructing him to follow good conduct and do his duties. Saying those words  Lord Narsimha disappeared.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 19 - Bhakta Prahlad (2/3).

Story of Bhakta Prahlad

Part 2 of 3

Hiranyakashipu tried another way to kill Prahlad. He had a sister, Holika who had a boon that she would not die by fire. King Hiranyakashipu asked her to sit on a bonfire with Prahlad on her lap in the hope that this would kill Prahlad. Prahlad was not at all worried and chanted Lord Vishnu's name and was not hurt, but Holika was burned to her death. All the measures taken by the demons to kill Prahlad proved to be fruitless.

Because of this, Hiranyakashipu began to feel afraid. Once more, he forcibly sent Prahlad to the hermitage of Shand and Amark. Once there, Prahlad did take the education they offered but had no interest in their teachings. When his teachers used to get engaged in minor activities, Prahlad would assemble his fellow disciples around him and preach to them that, “Brothers, this human incarnation is not meant to be wasted. If we don't  find God in this birth, it would be a great loss. We can achieve the means to find God right in our childhood, for when we grow young, we are caught by the material wealth and nothing can be done in old age. It is very easy to find God. He is present in everyone's hearts. He is in every living being. Hence, we should not torture any creature. We should concentrate our mind in the God”.

At the age of five years, Prahlad was preaching to the demon boys. The demon boys followed him faithfully. His teachers saw that Prahlad's teachings were against demonic traditions, Prahlad was sent back to Hiranyakashipu. Hiranyakashipu decided to kill Prahlad with his own hands. He tied Prahlad to a pillar. Hiranyakashipu asked in a loud voice: “O fool, with whose powers you have been humiliating me with? Now, I am going to kill you, call your God to save you.”

Prahlad was unconcerned replied humbly: “Father, don't be angry. Lord Vishnu is the protector of us all. I am not dishonoring you. One's own mind is his biggest enemy in the world. Lord Vishnu is everywhere. He is in me, in you, in your sword and is also present in the pillar”.

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 18 - Bhakta Prahlad (1/3)

Story of Bhakta Prahlad

Part 1 of 3

Prahlad's story begins during the time of Lord Vishnu's fourth avatar (incarnation) Varaha. In order to rescue the earth from the captivity of Hiranyaksha, Lord Vishnu had arrived in the avatar (incarnation) Varaha (boar) form and killed him. Hiranyaksha's elder brother Hiranyakashipu was very angry about this. He resolved to take revenge of his brother's death. He went to the Himalayas and began to perform severe penance for many, many years. Lord Brahma was pleased by his penance and asked him for a boon. Hiranyakashipu asked that “May I never be killed neither by any weapon nor any creature made by you, neither in the day nor in the night, and neither on earth nor in the sky”. Lord Brahma agreed to Hiranyakashipu's  boon and gave it to him.  

While Hiranyakashipu was away, the gods had attacked his kingdom and killed his nephews. Lord Indra had even abducted his wife, Queen Kayadhu who was expecting a child. Devarishi Narad stopped Indra on his way back to heaven. Indra declared to Devarishi Narad that Kayadhu was pregnant; he would destroy her unborn baby and then release her. Devarishi Narad however, assured Indra that the unborn baby was a supreme devotee of Lord Vishnu and that they should not fear him. Lord Indra was convinced and released Queen Kayadhu, who then began to stay at Devarishi Narad's hermitage. Addressing the unborn baby, Narad daily used to preach Queen Kayadhu about the devotion one should have for God. This was the way the baby would never forget the preaching it received in the pre-natal stage.

At the appropriate time, Queen Kayadhu gave birth to a son, Prahlad. Prahlad was the youngest among Hiranyakaship's four sons. He appeared to be the eldest in virtues. He did not have any desires. He was content like the hermits, truthful and always wished well for everyone. He had full control over his senses, mind and body. He was also completely untouched by the demonic virtues of his father and brothers. Since childhood, he remained submerged in devotion to Lord Vishnu. The demons even tried to use their illusionary powers on Prahlad but none of their powers could stand before him. Two sages, Shand and Amark produced an ogress, Kritya to kill Prahlad if he didn't follow their ways, but she killed them instead of killing Prahlad. But Prahlad was kind hearted and prayed to Lord Vishnu and brought them back to life.

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 17 - Markandeya

Mrikandu was a great rishi. Marudvati was his wife. For a long time they had no children.

The rishi prayed to God Shiva. God Shiva appeared to him, and said, "I am pleased with you, Mrikandu. Tell me, do you want a hundred sons, who will live for a long time, but will all be foolish?

Or, do you want one very intelligent son, who will live for only sixteen years?"

The rishi at once said, "God, give me that one intelligent son."

God Shiva said, "Good! You shall have him."

Soon the rishi got a son. He named him Markandeya. The boy grew to be very intelligent and handsome. The rishi invested him with the sacred thread. Markandeya learnt the Vedas and Sastras,easily. Every one liked him.

As the boy was getting on to be sixteen, Rishi Mrikandu became sadder and sadder. One day Markandeya asked his father: "Father, why do you look so sad?"

The rishi said, "Son! What shall I say? When God Shiva gave you to me, he said you would live only sixteen years. You are now about to reach that age. How can your mother and I bear to lose you as we will at the end of this year?"

Markandeya said, "Father! Is that the reason? God Shiva is very kind to His devotees. You yourself told me that. He has saved many from death before. I have read about it in the Puranas. I shall therefore worship God Shiva day and night from today. I am sure, He will save -me too! "

Rishi Mrikandu was very happy to hear his son say this. He blessed his son.

Markandeya built a Shiva-Linga at a spot on the sea-shore. He started worshipping Shiva morning, noon and night. He sang bhajans, and often danced in joy. On the last day, Markandeya was about to sing bhajans, when Yama, the God of Death, came to him. Yama rode on a buffalo. He held a noose in his hand. He spoke to Markandeya, "Stop your bhajan! you boy! Your life in this world is over. Be ready to die."

Markandeya was not afraid. He clung to the Shiva-Linga as one clings to one's mother.

Yama threw his noose round the boy's neck, and pulled him along with the Shiva- Linga.

Then the Shiva-Linga burst open and God Shiva came out of it, and said, "Yama, go away! Don't touch this boy. He is my beloved devotee. He will live for ever!"

Yama went away crest-fallen. Markandeya then prayed to God Shiva more fervently than ever. This prayer says at the end of each line, "What can Death do to me?" Many people recite this prayer even now.

Markandeya came home, and fell at the feet of his parents. They embraced him, and wept with joy.

Markandeya became a great rishi, and lived very long.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 16 - Bhasmasura (Part 3/3)

Story of Bhasmasura
Part 3 of 3

He lunged forward to catch her, but Mohini quickly stepped back. Then Bhasmasura said, "You are so very beautiful, Mohini. I want you to be my bride. Will you marry me?"

Mohini gave a rippling little laugh. She said, "Maharaj, how can I trust you? The man I marry must never have another wife. Once he marries me, he should never marry again. But you Rakshasas have so many, many wives. No, it cannot be." Saying this, she let out a long, wistful sigh.

Bhasmasura, now crazy with desire, said, "Mohini, I cross my heart I shall not marry again. I promise you that if you become my wife I will not so much as look at another woman. Please, please give your consent to marry me."

Mohini looked at Bhasmasura and then looked modestly away. "O, you men. I know you are all the same. "Shiva-Shiva." None of you are to be trusted. Promises! Promises!! But you never stick to them. No, I shall not be satisfied till you place your hand on your head and swear that you will not marry again if I become your wife."

Bhasmasura now thoroughly caught up in this net of Maya, quickly touched his head with his right hand. "Mohini, I swear - " he began. But he never lived even to complete his sentence. For, the moment he placed his hand on his head, he burnt into a heap of ashes. "Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva."

Shiva was still heaving and panting as he ran along. He looked nervously over his shoulder to see how close Bhasmasura was to him. But for quite a distance behind he saw no Bhasmasura. Strange! What could have happened? He could not have sat down to rest. He had tremendous energy and did not tire easily. For some time Shiva waited where he was. But still there was no sign of Bhasmasura.

So, he retraced his steps and reached that very bend. He saw there a huge heap of ashes and the most beautiful girl standing there next to it. He asked her if she knew what had happened to Bhasmasura. Very modestly, she narrated all that had happened.

Shiva was very pleased with her timely assistance. Above all he was pleased the way she praised him-"Lord, I saw you running and sensed your distress. I saw you were in need of help. Had Bhasmasura caught up with you and placed his hand on your head, where would have been the poor creatures of this earth? Therefore, I tricked him into placing his hand on his own head by asking him to swear that he would never marry anyone else if I agreed to marry him. I did this all for your sake, my Lord," Thus saying she folded her hands and bowed her head.

Shiva beamed. He made to embrace her. But she slipped from his arms. Bewildered he looked. There was no sign of Mohini anywhere. Instead, there stood the beautiful resplendent form of the Four-armed Lord Vishnu. The corners of His mouth lifted in a slow smile.

Shiva smiled too, as he realized that once again the Supreme Protector of the Universe had run to the aid of the good and maneuvered the destruction of the evil.

"Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva."

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 15 - Bhasmasura (Part 2/3)

Story of  Bhasmasura 
Part 2 of 3

Panic arose in Shiva's heart. He knew that if he complied with Bhasmasura's request he would surely turn to ashes. And if he was no more, the world would come to a chaotic end. Yet, once having granted a boon, how could he take it back? There was only one way out of his sticky situation - he would have to run!

And run he did. Clutching his trident, he ran as fast as his legs would carry him. He ran over mountain and down valleys, he crossed rivers and lakes, he ran across vast plains and fields, he passed peaceful ashramas and huts, he ran through dark, dense forests and light, cheerful woods-with Bhasmasura never far behind! "Shiva-Shiva."

What a strange sight it was! The Lord of the Universe running for his life! Pursued by an evil-minded Rakshasa! The hearts of the birds fluttered as they twittered away from tree-tops. The animals stared with huge startled eyes as they scampered away out of the way. And the chase went on - Shiva, panic stricken, panting ahead; Bhasmasura, thirsting to test his unintelligent boon, close on his heels!

Shiva was now getting out of breath. The chase had been long and tiring. Yet, what could he do? He had to press on. But he was beginning to feel that unless something happened soon, Bhasmasura would have his way.

At this time Vishnu was in Vaikuntha watching this unusual occurence with amused interest. He thought that Shiva had been sufficiently punished for carelessly granting such a boon. It was time now to go and help him. After all, were they not the very best of friends? " "Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva."

Shiva had just turned round the shoulder of a mountain and Bhasmasura had not yet reached the bend. Vishnu transformed himself into a delightful maiden, soft, shy and beautiful and stood at the bend. As Bhasmasura came panting up, hot in Shiva's pursuit, this girl Mohini, gently caught his hand and said, "Maharaj! You look very tired indeed. Why are you running so fast? Come, my father's ashrama is not far away. Come and rest there a bit. Take some refreshment. Then you will feel fresh enough to start with renewed vigour."

Bhasmasura shook off her hand impatiently and said, "O, let me go. That wretched Shiva will get away. I want to touch his head with my right hand so he will be burnt to ashes and I can then become Lord of the three worlds."

He was about to run ahead when he saw, really saw, Mohini for the first time. The image soon filled his eyes. Her lovely black tresses, her smooth fair brow, her large, soft, doe-like eyes and her small delicate mouth-he looked at the shapely wrist and fingers resting lightly on his arm, her lissom body, her fair feet with tinkling anklets and he forgot all about Shiva and his boon. He looked Mohini up and down, not twice, but over and over again. Desire was planted in his heart. "Shiva-Shiva." 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 14 - Bhasmasura (Part 1/3)

Way up in the Himalayas, where the snow never melts, there once sat a Rakshasa performing severe penance. He was a devotee of Lord Shiva and had spent many, many hundreds of years, with no thought for food or clothe, heat or cold, sun or snow, sitting there, his mind fixed on Lord Shiva. "Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva." His name was Bhasmasura.

After ages had passed thus, Shiva decided to bless him. So, one day, as Bhasmasura was meditating, the Lord appeared before him. He was shining like the morning sun. He was the supreme ascetic, dressed in deer skin, body smeared with ashes, locks matted, the snakes dangling around his neck and arms, his hand holding aloft the divine Trishul. Ah, what a magnificent sight he made in all his ascetic glory! Bhasmasura's eyes were dazzled. He was speechless with wonder at the Lord's beautiful form: "Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva."

Gently Shiva spoke to the awe-struck Bhasmasura. He said, "I am pleased with the severe penance you have performed. Ask of me any boon you desire." And Bhasmasura thought, "I must indeed be a great Tapasvi, as Lord Shiva has granted me a boon." Aloud he said, "Lord, grant that whatever object I touch with my right hand will be immediately reduced to ashes." "Shiva-Shiva." Bhasmasura, even after going through such rigorous penance, yet, had an asuric mind. "Shiva-Shiva." What a boon to ask for! Lord Shiva said, "Tathaastu! - so be it."

Then at once Bhasmasura said, "Lord, you have granted me the boon alright, but how will I know it is true? Once you disappear now, I will not be able to get you for the next few hundred years perhaps. I would like to test your boon. This is a mountainous, snowy area. For miles around there is no object that can be touched. Therefore, come forward. I will touch your head and see if what you say is true."

"Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva, Shiva-Shiva."

The wicked Rakshasa thought that once I burn up Lord Shiva's head there will be nobody greater than I.

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 13 - Dhruva (part 6/6)

Dhruva, a devotee of  Lord Vishnu was blessed to attain the position of the polar star, also known as Dhruva in Sanskrit.  His tale is recorded in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana.

Part 6 of 6

The Lord smiled at Dhruva's words and lo, He appeared before his mind's eye in His effulgent form. Dhruva hastily opened his eyes... lo, in front of him was the Lord's form same as that which appeared in his mind..... shining like a thousand suns, with four hand holding a lotus, mace, conch shell and discus. He had a glittering jewel on His chest and sweet smelling garland around His neck. Dhruva hurriedly prostrated to Sri Maha Vishnu. He wanted to praise the Lords but as he was only a small boy, he did not know what to speak.

Knowing his predicament Sri Maha Vishnu touched him with the conch shell and Dhruva suddenly found that words were flowing out of him. "O Madhava, Mukunda, Govinda, Narayana, even the Creator with his four faces cannot describe your glory. Can, I a mere child, describe you? You are the Creator, Sustainer and Annihilator of all the worlds. By you men live, act and think. By gaining your vision, your devotees gain all things in the world."

Lord Narayana was very much pleased with Dhruva's words. "O child, your father and all others will love you dearly hereafter. Go back to your kingdom. You will become a great king and rule over the kingdom for a long time. You will perpetuate your name on earth. After your life on the earth is over you will become the Dhruva star that will shine brightly in the sky. All the great planets and even the seven great Rishis will whirl round you. The whole world will look up to you for guidance in the nights."

So saying Lord Narayana blessed Dhruva and vanished. Dhruva was happy beyond words and quickly returned to the kingdom. Lo, even as he approached the kingdom, he could see his father, mother, aunty, Uttama and the entire kingdom and waiting for him on the outskirts of the city. Uttanapada rushed forward to take Dhruva into his arms and shed tears of joy and repentance. His mother , now a favourite queen, shed tears of joy and fondly embraced him. There was great rejoicing throughout the kingdom for a number of days in honor of his return.

In time Dhruva grew up to be a mighty king and ruled over a big kingdom for long and lived happily with his wife and children. After his life on earth was completed, he flew to the sky. As he was firm in his tapas, so is he in the sky. He never changes his position in the sky and all the other stars including the seven Maharshis go round and round him throughout the year. That is why he is called the Polar star. Sailors and travellers in strange places look up to him for knowing their directions in the nights.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 12 - Dhurva (part 5/6)

Dhruva, a devotee of  Lord Vishnu was blessed to attain the position of the polar star, also known as Dhruva in Sanskrit.  His tale is recorded in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana.

Part 5 of 6

So when Uttanapada saw Devarshi Narada coming to the palace, he greatly rejoiced for, a Mahatma's darshan indicated auspicious occurings. He came outside the palace to greet the sage. Prostrating before him with great devotion he led the sage inside and worshipping him in due manner, he unburdened his heart before him. Narada consoled him saying, "Don't worry, king. Your son is not an ordinary person. He will succeed and will return safely after gaining the vision of the Lord. He will not only become famous but will also perpetuate your name. Now be kind and loving to your senior wife who is quite forlorn because of Dhruva's departure." Thus saying he disappeared from there.

In Madhuvana Dhruva carried on severe austerities. He gave up food and immersed himself in japa throughout the day. In the first month he ate one or two fruit once in three days. In the second month he ate only a few leaves once in six days. In the third month he drank a little water once in nine days. In the fourth month he opened his mouth once in twelve days and swallowed only a little air. In the fifth month he stopped even that and stood on one foot like an immovable post and continued japa with all his mind set on Lord Narayana.

Such a terrible austerity in so small a child moved the three worlds. The intensity of the tapas created such a heat that even the gods in heaven could not withstand it. They all went in a deputation to Lord Narayana in Vaikuntha and said, "O Lord, we are being burnt up by the intensity of Dhruva's tapas. Please rescue us from it."

Lord Narayana was reclining on the cobra bed with Lakshmi Devi at His feet. He smiled and said, "Yes, I know. Dhruva's tapas has reached the culmination. I will give him a vision now." So saying He got up. Garutmanta, His bird chariot who always knew what his master wanted even before he spoke out, was ready at the gate as Lord Narayana reached there. Seated upon the eagle chariot Sri Vishnu flew faster than wind and reached Madhuvana in no time. Dhruva was standing one one foot with eyes closed and doing japa intensely.

Lord Narayana stood before Dhruva and called aloud, "My child Dhruva, I am very much pleased with your tapas. I give you whatever you pray for. Open your eyes and see me."

Dhruva heard the words of the Lord but did not open his eyes. Instead, he said, "O Great God, excuse me if I don't obey your orders immediately. During these five months I heard such voices many times and thinking that you have come, I opened my eyes, but I found that it was only a trick of my mind. My mother said that you are everywhere within and without of all beings. If you have really come please appear before my mind so that I can be sure that you have really come."  

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 11 - Dhruva (part 4/6)

Dhruva, a devotee of  Lord Vishnu was blessed to attain the position of the polar star, also known as Dhruva in Sanskrit.  His tale is recorded in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana.

Part 4 of 6

Dhruva did not know who Narada was. But he was a good boy brought up by his mother in good traditions. He bowed at the feet of the sage with great devotion and told him his full story. He concluded saying, 'O Mahatma, I will do tapas in the forest until Lord Narayana gives me a vision and my father's love."

Narada made light of Dhruva's words and laughing said, "My dear boy, is it only a man's love that you are in need of? Come, I will take you to great kings who are nicer than your father and will love you dearly. Who will not like a dear child like you? Think of your mother .. how lonely and forlorn she must be feeling! Go back to her. She will be most happy to see you. Don't go to forest. Even grown-ups can't live there. It is not easy to do tapas."

But Dhruva was very firm in his determination. He could not be dissuaded from his purpose. "Of what use is the love of others to me O Maharshi, if my own father scorns me? My mother herself is very much neglected by my father. If I gain my father's love, she will also benefit by it. I am not afraid of the forests. My mother told me that no harm will come to a person who relies on the Lord."

Seeing Dhruva thus firm in his purpose, Narada was very happy. He blessed the boy and said, "Dhruva, verily Lord Narayana Himself is inspiring you. You go straight along this road till you reach the sacred river Yamuna. On her banks is the forest called Madhuvana which is very suitable for tapas. You live in the forest. Take a bath in the river and worship the Lord sitting under a tree in the forest." He then drew the boy near him and whispered the Narayana Mantra in his ears,. 'Om Namo Narayana!" As he heard the Mantra, there was a thrill in Dhruva. Narada advised him to do japa of the Mantra contiguously, forgetting everything else. "O Dhruva, drive the thoughts of your parents, of your father's neglect, your aunty's cruelty and your mother's sorrow. Concentrate on the Lord alone. He will surely appear before you soon." Dhruva respectfully prostrated before the sage and went towards the Yamuna river.

Narada's mission did not stop with this. He was very kind by nature and always wanted to help wherever sorrow and misery prevailed. He was sure that Uttanapada must be repenting for his callousness by now, for he was a nice man though too much enamored of his younger wife. As expected, Uttanapada was in great distress. He came to know through his servants that Dhruva left for forests dressed like an ascetic and he sorely blamed himself for his heartless conduct.  

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 10 - Dhruva (part 3/6)

Dhruva, a devotee of  Lord Vishnu was blessed to attain the position of the polar star, also known as Dhruva in Sanskrit.  His tale is recorded in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana.

Part 3 of 6

Dhruva then and there made up his mind to go in search of the Lord and begged his mother very hard to allow him to do so. Poor Suniti! She was already feeling very forlorn by the neglect of her husband. Now here was her body intent upon to do Tapas for God. It was not possible even for great sages to get a vision of the Lord even after years of penance. What could this slip of a boy do? But Dhruva was inconsolable and insistent that he should win his father's love at any cost. She could pour out all her love on the boy and immerse him in it, but how could she get him the father's love for which he was thirsting? 

At last she had give in. She removed the princely dress of Dhruva and dressed him in clothes made of the bark of trees. "My darling, leave the kingdom and go into the forests. Sitting under a tree chant the Lord's name with all your mind. The Lord dearly loves those who love Him. Forget everything else and remember only Him. Then he will appear before you and give you what all you desire. May God be with you and protect you always." She embraced her son with tearful eyes and bade him farewell. Dhruva bowed to her and left for the forests.

The servants and attendants in the palace all gathered together and wept aloud when their young master thus left like an ascetic. There was not a single soul that day in the palace who did not curse Uttanapada and Suruchi for their heartless behaviour.

When any one seeks out God with a sincere heart, surely, God Himself will send His messengers to help him and put him on the path.

As Dhruva left the kingdom behind and was slowly walking towards the forest, Narada accosted him and asked, "Son, you are very young barely five years. Who are you? Why are you wearing clothes made of tree bark? The kingdom is behind you and the path you are walking now will only lead you to the forest. Don't you know that there will be fierce animals in the jungles. Come, I will take you back to your parents."

There was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu who is called Narada. He is the son of the Creator, Brahma. Therefore he is called the Devarshi, the sage of the gods. He knew what all happened anywhere in the three worlds and was always going round the worlds with his veena in his hands singing joyously Lord Narayana's name. He knew all about Dhruva and his going to the forests. He wanted to see if Dhruva was firm in his determination to do tapas for the Lord; and if he was, he would help him in doing the tapas. 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 9 - Dhruva (part 2/6)

Dhruva, a devotee of  Lord Vishnu was blessed to attain the position of the polar star, also known as Dhruva in Sanskrit.  His tale is recorded in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana.

Part 2 of 6

Sobbing aloud he turned back and ran to his mother. Suniti saw him from a distance and came out anxiously for Dhruva was a very good boy and he never wept for trifles. She held him close to her heart and wiping away the tears, asked lovingly, "What happened my boy? Did anyone say anything to you? Have you been hurt?"

When consoled by his mother Dhruva's grief increased. He broke into loud weeping. Amid sobs and hiccups he told her what passed in Suruchi's palace and asked, 'Why is my father so unloving, mother? Why is he not like all fathers? Everybody loves his own children. Why does my father neglect me? Will you not speak with him?"

Suniti shed bitter tears on hearing this and lamented, "My unfortunate child it is as your aunty said. You were born to me because you are unlucky. The king loves only your aunty and does not love me all. Because of me you are also neglected. I am myself helpless. How can I help you, my poor child?"

Dhruva was sadder than ever. He hoped that his mother who was big could speak with his father and set the matters right. But here she was more miserable than himself. He rose to his feet and asked, 'Mother, tell me, is there no way to gain my father's love? Can no one help at all?"

Suniti looked into his eyes .... poor child, he appeared so sad and worried at his young age. She wiped her tears and tried to look brave. She said, "My dear, there is only one who helps all helpless people in the world. He is the Lord Narayana. If you can get a vision of the Lord, all your troubles will be at an end."

Dhruva's face brightened on hearing this. If there was anything on earth that he could do to gain his father's love he would be sure to do it! He eagerly asked, 'Mother, where is this Lord Narayana? How can I meet him? Will he listen to me or will he shove me off as father does?"

Suniti replied, "No, my boy, He will never do like that. He will be very kind and considerate and will grant you all that you ask." 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 8 - Dhruva (part 1/6)

Dhruva, a devotee of  Lord Vishnu was blessed to attain the position of the polar star, also known as Dhruva in Sanskrit.  His tale is recorded in the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana.

Part 1 of 6

Long long ago there was a king called Uttanapada. He had two wives Suniti and Suruchi. Suniti had a son called Dhruva while Suruchi's son was called Uttama.

Suruchi was the younger wife full of charms and very very lovely. The king was therefore very much enamored of her and always lived in her palace. He never visited Suniti's palace even once.

Dhruva and Uttama were equal in age, both five years old. So there was keen competition between them in all things. Though his father neglected him, Dhruva rushed to meet and be with his father in the palace of Suruchi. Suruchi did not like is coming to her palace. For the fear of offending her, though he liked Dhruva, Uttanapada could not exhibit his love.

One day, when Dhruva reached the palace, Uttama was sitting on his father's lap saying something and mischievously laughing. Uttanapada was holding him tightly to his heart and saying endearing words. Dhruva rushed forward opening his arms wide to embrace his father and get on to his lap. But Suruchi was on the watch. She pulled Dhruva by the shoulder and asked, 'Where are you going, you chit?"

Dhruva tried to wriggle himself out of her hold but he could not. Flushed red in the face he replied, "I want to sit on father's lap."

Suruchi could not control her anger any longer. Raising her voice she shouted, 'Father's lap indeed! Who are you to sit on father's lap? Had you been so fortunate you would have been born to me like Uttama. Why were you born to your mother? Go.... go away from here and pray to God that you may be born to me at least in the next life."

Stuck to the quick Dhruva looked at his father with tearful eyes. He hoped that his father would say something and console him. But no, Uttanapada didn't even glance at him. Poor Dhruva realized that his father had no love for him. 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 7 - Shravan Kumar

This story is from Ramayana

Once upon a time there lived a boy named Shravan Kumar. He had parents who were blind. He had to do all the work for them, since they could not see. Shravan took great care and did everything for his mother and father with earnestness and love. He fulfilled every wish of his parents. One day his parents expressed their desire to go on a pilgrimage. Shravan wanted to take them so he made a device like a balance, to carry them on his shoulders. His parents were pleased that their only son was fulfilling their wish. During the journey, Shravan managed to get them some roots and fruits from the forest. They ate them and never accepted corn or cereal offered by anyone else. They were on a pilgrimage and wanted to eat simple food offered only by their son. 

While on pilgrimage they arrived in a forest near Ayodhya. His parents were thirsty and requested Shravan to get water to quench their thirst. Shravan Kumar took a vessel to fetch water from the river Sarayu. He left his parents and went to the banks of the river.

Dashrath was the king of Ayodhya and he was fond of hunting. He had come to the forest alone to hunt. He had a unique skill of shooting a mark with his arrow from where he heard the sound. As soon as Shravan Kumar dipped the vessel to fill water, Dashrath thought it was the sound of a deer drinking water. He received the arrow precisely, aiming at the place from where the sound came. The arrow pierced into Shravan. He gave out a cry and fell on the ground. 

On hearing the moaning sound, King Dashrath came to the place to see who it was. He saw an innocent boy crying in pain. The vessel was lying on the ground. His body was all splashed with blood and mud. When King Dashrath saw this young boy, he became very sad and started cursing himself.

When Shravan saw the king, he told him, “O, King! Please don't worry. I came to take water for my parents. They are thirsty. I am in severe pain. Please pull out this arrow and take some water to my parents and tell them the sad news.” The king sadly removed the arrow and went to Shravan's parents with water. He silently gave them water to drink, which they refused to accept unless the carrier revealed his identity. 

The parents had in fact grown suspicious of some foul play. Their intuition had warned them that the carrier was not their real son. He conveyed the message about the death of their son. Shravan's old and blind parents were shocked and were in utter grief. They cried out loud and told the king to take them to  their dead son. 

 

King Dashrath carried them on his shoulders to the place where Shravan Kumar had died. Just then, Shravan Kumar spoke to his parents, “Through my services to you I have attained a place in the heaven. Do not worry about me. I shall wait for you both and provide my service to both of you when you come to me.”

Shravan's mother and father both took a dip in the Sarayu River. Soon after, they died by their son Shravan's side because of unbearable shock. But before dying they cursed Dashrath, “Just as we are dying because of our son's loss, you would also die one day for the same reason, O' King.” Their curse came true and King Dashrath died when Lord Ram was sent out in exile for fourteen years to the forest.

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 6 - Sudama (part 2/2)

This story is from the Bhagavata Purana

Krishna saw him from a distance. At once he rushed out and met Sudhama at the gate. He gave him a great welcome. He embraced him. He washed Sudhama's feet. He took him to his room, and seated him on a silken cot. Krishna's wife Rukmini gently fanned Sudhama. The maids-in- waiting gave him plenty of sweet food and delicious drink in golden vessels.

Sudhama had never seen such a beautiful palace of such riches. No one had ever treated him so nicely before. So he did not even know how to thank Krishna for the hospitality.

After Sudhama had taken a rest, Krishna spoke to him of their student days and about their teacher, Sandipani.

At last Krishna said to him: "Are you married? How many children have you?" Sudhama nodded his head shyly, meaning to say that he was happy and content. "I am sure you have brought something for me to eat," said Krishna suddenly.

Sudhama was ashamed to take out the package of beaten rice. But Krishna saw the bag and pulled it out. Taking a handful from and putting it in his mouth, he said: "How nice of your wife to have sent this to me?" Then he ate two more handfuls.

After spending the day happily at Dwaraka, Sudhama took leave of Krishna, and walked back to his village.

He completely forgot to ask for any gift of favor of Krishna.

On the way he as thinking how loyal and generous Krishna had been.

When Sudhama reached home, a great miracle waited for him there.

There was a grand palace where his old home had been. Many servants went about doing all kinds of work. His wife stood before him. She wore a costly sari and had golden ornaments on! All his children wore gorgeous clothes. He could not believe his eyes.

Sudhama's wife said:"It all happened by the grace of Krishna."

Sudhama worshipped Krishna with greater devotion than ever before. 

Cheers!

Stories from Scriptures # 5 - Sudama (part 1/2)

This story is from the Bhagavata Purana.

God Krishna had in his student days a classmate, who was very poor. His name was Sudhama. Krishna became king of Dwaraka later on.

Sudhama remained a poor householder. He had many children. He was, however, a good-loving man.

Everyday Sudhama went out singing bhajans in the streets. People gave him handfuls of rice. He came home and gave the rice to his wife. She cooked it. Sudhama first offered the food of God. Next he gave part of it to his guests. Then he fed his children. The husband and wife ate what remained.

Sudhama never stored food for the next day. He was sure God would feed him everyday, as He had always fed him.

When the children grew up, the alms Sudhama brought were not enough. On some days they had to go without food. Sudhama had no fine clothes to wear. He was in rags. So people called him 'Kuchela'. It means a man with torn clothes.

One day Sudhama's wife said to him: "Lord! Why don't you meet Krishna? You were at school together. He will surely help us!"

Sudhama had been wanting to see his friend Krishna, not for money, but for the joy of meeting a beloved friend.

When we go to see a baby, a great man or God in a temple we must not go without gifts. We must take with us some sweets as a token of affection or respect. Sudhama took what his wife could give him-a small package of beaten rice. They were that poor.

Sudhama walked all the way to Dwaraka. When he reached Krishna's palace, he went in. 

(to be continued...)

Stories from Scriptures # 4 - Eklavya

This story is from the Mahabharata

This is the story of a long-gone era. In the country of India, nearly five thousand years back, lived a boy named Eklavya, the son of a tribal chief in the forests of the kingdom- Hastinapura. Eklavya was a brave, handsome boy. He was loved by all. But he was not happy.

His father saw that something troubled Eklavya. More than once he found his son lost deep in thought when other boys enjoyed the pleasures of hunting and playing. One day the father asked his son, “Why are you so unhappy, Eklavya? Why don’t you join your friends? Why are you not interested in hunting?”.

“Father, I want to be an archer” replied Eklavya, “I want to become a disciple of the great Dronacharya, the great tutor of Archery in Hastinapura. His Gurukul is a magical place where ordinary boys are turned into mighty warriors.”

Eklavya saw his father was silent. He continued, “ Father, I know that we belong to the hunting tribe, but I want to be a warrior, father, not a mere hunter. So please allow me to leave home and become the disciple of Dronacharya.”

Eklavya's father was troubled, for he knew that his son’s ambition was not an easy one. But the chief was a loving father and he did not want to refuse his only son’s wish. So the kind man gave his blessings and sent his son on his way to Drona’s Gurukul.

Eklavya set on his way. Soon he reached the part of the forest where Drona taught the princes of Hastinapur.

In those days, there was no such system as a school, college, university or hostel. The only place where one could get some education was a “ Gurukul”. A Gurukul (Guru refers to "teacher" or "master"; Kul refers to his domain, from the Sanskrit word kula, meaning extended family.) is a type of ancient Hindu school in India that is residential in nature with the shishyas or students and the guru or teacher living in proximity, many a time within the same house. The Gurukul is the place where the students resided together as equals, irrespective of their social standing. The students learned from the guru and also helped the guru in his day-to-day life, including the carrying out of mundane chores such as washing clothes, cooking, etc. The education imparted thus, was a wholesome one.

Having said this much, let us now return to Eklavya. When the boy reached Dronacharya’s Gurukul, he saw that it consisted of a group of huts, surrounded by trees and an archery yard. The disciples were practicing to shoot arrows with their bows and arrows in the yard. It was an engaging sight. But Eklavya’s eyes searched Drona. Where was he? Will he be able to see the man? Without Drona, all his purpose of coming here would be meaningless. But all his worries soon subsided. He didn’t have to wait for long. There was the man standing near a tree busy instructing a boy, who was none else than the third Pandava prince Arjuna, as Eklavya came to know later. Though Eklavya had never seen Drona before, he put his guess at work. He went near Drona and bowed.

The sage was surprised to see a strange boy addressing him. “Who are you?” he asked.

"Dronacharya, I am Eklavya, son of the Tribal Chief in the western part of the forests of Hastinapura." Eklavya replied. "Please accept me as your disciple and teach me the wonderful art of Archery."

Drona sighed. "Eklavya..." said he,"... if you are a tribal hunter, you must be a Shudra, the lowest social community according to the Vedic Caste System. I am a Brahmin, the highest caste in the kingdom. I cannot teach a Shudra boy."

"And he's also a Royal teacher," interrupted Prince Arjuna. "Our Guru has been appointed by the King to train us, the princes and the highborn. How dare you come inside the Gurukul and seek him? Leave! NOW!" he spat out, looking enraged that Eklavya had disturbed his practice.

Eklavya was stunned at Arjuna's behaviour. He himself was the son of the chief of his clan, but he never insulted anyone below him in such a way. He looked at Drona for some kind of support, but the sage remained silent. The message was loud and clear. Dronacharya also wanted him to leave. He refused to teach him.

The innocent tribal boy was deeply hurt by Drona's refusal to teach him. "It's not fair!" he thought miserably. "God has given knowledge to all, but man alone differentiates his kind."

He left the place with a broken heart and a bitter taste in his mouth. But it could not shatter his ambition to learn Archery. He was still as determined to learn Archery.

"I may be a Shudra but does it make any difference?" thought he. " I am as strong and zealous as Drona's princes and disciples. If I practice the art everyday, I can surely become an archer."

Eklavya reached his own forests and took some mud from a nearby river. He made a statue of Dronacharya and selected a secluded clearing in the forests to place it. Eklavya did this because he faithfully believed that if he practiced before his Guru, he would become an able archer. Thus, though his Guru shunned him, he still held him in high esteem and thought of him as his Guru.

Day after day, he took his bow and arrow, worshipped the statue of Drona and started practice. In time faith, courage and perseverance transformed Eklavya the mere tribal hunter into Eklavya the extraordinary archer. Eklavya became an archer of exceptional prowess, superior even to Drona's best pupil, Arjuna.

One day while Eklavya is practicing, he hears a dog barking. At first the boy ignored the dog, but continuous disturbance in his practice angered him. He stopped his practice and went towards the place where the dog was barking. Before the dog could shut up or get out of the way, Eklavya fired seven arrows in rapid succession to fill the dog's mouth without injuring it. As a result it roamed the forests with its mouth opened.

But Eklavya was not alone in his practice. He was unaware of the fact that just some distance away, the Pandava princes were also present in that area of the forest. As fate would have it, that day, they had come with their teacher, Drona, who was instructing them about some finer points of archery by making them learn in the real-life condition of the open jungle.

As they were busy practicing, they suddenly chanced upon the "stuffed" dog, and wonder who could have pulled off such a feat of archery. Drona was amazed too." Such an excellent aim can only come from a mighty archer." he exclaimed. He told the Pandavas that if somebody was such a good archer then he surely needed to be met. The practice was stopped and together they began searching the forest for the one behind such amazing feat. They found a dark-skinned man dressed all in black, his body besmeared with filth and his hair in matted locks. It was Eklavya. Dronacharya went up to him.

"Your aim is truly remarkable!" Drona praised Eklavya, and asked "From whom did you learn Archery?"

Eklavya was thrilled to hear Drona's praises. How surprised he will be if he told Drona that he, in fact was his Guru!

"From you my Master. You are my Guru," Eklavya replied humbly.

"Your Guru? How can I be your Guru? I have never seen you before!" Drona exclaimed in surprise. But all of a sudden he remembered something. He remembered about an eager boy who had visited his Gurukul several months ago. " Now I remember," said he. "Are you not the same hunter boy whom I refused admission in my Gurukul some months back?"

"Yes, Dronacharya", replied the boy. "After I left your Gurukul, I came home and made a statue like you and worshipped it every day. I practiced before your image. You refused to teach me, but your statue did not. Thanks to it, I have become a good archer."

Hearing this, Arjuna became angry. "But you promised me that you'd make me the best archer in the world!" he accused Drona. "Now how can that be? Now a common hunter has become better than me!"

The other princes remembered their master frequently praising Arjuna that he had immense talent and will be the greatest archer in the kingdom. They waited with bated breath. What will their teacher do now?

Unable to answer Arjuna's question, Drona remained silent. The sage too was upset that his promise to Prince Arjuna was not going to be fulfilled. He was also angry with Eklavya for disobeying him. So the sage planned to punish Eklavya.

"Where is your guru dakhsina? You have to give me a gift for your training," the sage demanded. He had finally found a way to make Eklavya suffer for his disobedience.

Eklavya was overjoyed. A guru dakshina was the voluntary fee or gift offered by a disciple to his guru at the end of his training. The guru-shishya parampara, i.e. the teacher-student tradition, was a hallowed tradition in Hinduism. At the end of a shishya's study, the guru asks for a "guru dakshina," since a guru does not take fees. A guru dakshina is the final offering from a student to the guru before leaving the ashram. The teacher may ask for something or nothing at all.

"Dronacharya, I'll be the happiest person on earth to serve you. Ask me anything and I will offer it to you as my guru dhakshina "he said.

"I might ask something you don't like to give me. What if you refuse the dhakshina I want?" Drona asked cunningly.

Eklavya was shocked. It was considered a grave insult and a great sin if a guru's dakshina was refused. "No! How can I, teacher? I am not that ungrateful. I'll never refuse anything you ask, Dronacharya," promised the unsuspecting boy.

Drona did not wait anymore. "Eklavya, I seek to have your right-hand thumb as my guru dhakshina" he declared.

Silence befell on everyone. Everyone was shocked, even Arjuna. He looked at his teacher in horror and disbelief. How could their teacher make such a cruel demand? That too, from a mere boy?

For a moment Eklavya stood silent. Without his thumb he could never shoot arrows again. But the teacher must be satisfied. "Ok Gurudev, as you wish." said he. Then, without the slightest hesitation, Eklavya drew out his knife and cut his thumb!

The princes gasped at Eklavya's act of bravery. But the tribal boy betrayed no signs of pain, and held out his severed thumb to Dronacharya.

"Here is my guru dakshina, Drona", Ekalavya said. "I am happy that you have made me your disciple, even if I'm a mere Shudra hunter."

The sage was humbled. He blessed the young archer for his courage. "Eklavya, even with out your thumb, you'll be known as a great archer. I bless you that you will be remembered forever for your loyalty to your guru," Drona declared and left the forests. He was moved and grieved at his own action. But he was content that his promise to Arjuna was not broken. The Gods blessed Eklavya from above.

But despite his handicap, Eklavya continued to practice archery. How could he do so? When one is dedicated, one can make even mountains bow. With practice, Eklavya could shoot arrows with his index and middle finger and he became a greater archer than he was ever before. His renown spread far and wide. When Drona came to know this, he blessed the boy silently and begged for divine forgiveness.

And true to Drona's blessing, Eklavya is still praised as the most loyal and brave student in the epic of Mahabharatha.

Cheers!