'Like your shadow she will follow' - The Divine Marriage

 In the last post, we had seen the great narration on Brahmarshi Viswamitra and all the illustrious events in his making by Satananda, family priest of King Janaka to Rama and Lakshmana. Viswamitra accompanied Rama and Lakshmana to the kingdom of Janaka for his yaga but through divine grace several auspicious beginnings unfold. We have entered that phase of the journey and let us look at how it happened. Here goes the intriguing story.

The trio left for the day to their abode after the narration on great Sage. Early next morning, Viswamitra, Rama and Lakshmana were taken to the ‘Yajna-sala’ and offered welcome. “What can I do for you?” Janaka beseeched the Sage, “please command me.” Sage Viswamitra then replied: “These are the sons of King Dasaratha. They are well-versed in ‘Dhanur-Veda’ and are righteous. They are curious to see, if they may, the great Divine Bow, ‘Siva-Dhanush’ worshipped by you. You will be blessed if you can bring that bow and satisfy their curiosity. King Janaka at once ordered his ministers to bring the bow.

Janaka then narrated the story of the great bow. "There was once a famous king, by name Devaratha, born as the sixth descendant of Nimi, who had received this bow in trust from Lord Siva. At the time of the destruction of Daksha's yagna, Lord Siva had jestingly said to the devatas, "In your eagerness to partake of the sacrificial offerings, you have failed to reserve my portion. So, I shall sever your precious heads with my bow". The devatas had immediately prayed for forgiveness and had won his grace. Siva had then gifted them this bow which they later passed on to Devaratha an ancestor of ours. The huge and heavy bow from Siva has been in the possession of King Janaka.

Janaka also described the story of Sita, how he got her as a baby, while ploughing a field for a ‘yaga’. The blade of the plow had uncovered a beautiful girl child, who rose from the mother Earth, came to know as Sita and growing up as his daughter.

‘Sita’ literally means ‘furrow’, and so she was named as such. She grew up like Goddess Lakshmi and Janaka vowed to give her in marriage only to the one who lifted and strung this Siva’s bow. (Note: It is believed that while Sita, as a little girl, was playing with a ball, the ball got stuck up under this great Bow; and without any hesitation, she lifted the bow with one hand, and retrieved the ball with the other. Seeing her divine might, Janaka vowed to marry her only to him who lifted the mighty bow.)

The king then said that whosoever sought her hand in marriage, was required to prove his strength by lifting and stringing the divine bow. Many had sought but in vain. The bow was placed before those who were eager to test their strength, but none succeeded in even grasping or lifting it. Janaka had found none worthy of his daughter and the band of unsuccessful suitors, frustrated and angered, had laid siege to Mithila, harassing and tormenting its population. A full year had passed, and the king's resources were dwindling. Finding the situation precarious, Janaka had prayed to the gods who granted him an army consisting of the best of chariots, horses, elephants and infantry. This army had trounced and driven away the wicked kings and their armies.

Offering to show that bow of incomparable splendor to the Ikshvaku princes he said, "If Rama could lift and string it, I would give my daughter to him in marriage". Ordered by the king, the mighty bow was brought festooned with flowers and smeared with sandal paste.

About five thousand strong men pulled an eight-wheeled-cart containing the Divine Bow and brought it there with great effort. No ‘Deva’ ‘Asura’, or any denizen of heaven or Earth, could ever string that bow till then.

Presenting it to Viswamitra he said, "Brahmin, here is the bow that the kings of Mithila worship the bow that has challenged the might of the mightiest.A challenge that has never been met even by the gods!Will it be possible for mere men?”

With the permission of Viswamitra and King Janaka, Sri Rama approached the huge box, opened it and gripped the colossal bow very easily, and took it out. Holding it on one hand, he strung it, and the bow broke into two with a thunderous sound; Of all those beholding the divine display of strength and valor, only Viswamitra, Janaka, and the two Raghavas remained standing while the rest, stunned, had fainted unconscious at the sound from breaking the huge bow. The congregated masses slowly struggled back to their senses, seeming befuddled and dazed. When some semblance of normalcy had returned, king Janaka reverentially told Viswamitra that he had witnessed the strength of the great Ikshvaku prince, "I had pledged the hand of my daughter in marriage to him who would prove his might in handling the bow. I now bestow Sita on Rama, as a gift for that might".

Sita, after watching it and fair beyond thought she stood there. Her eyes met Rama’s and stunned, they looked deliriously at each other. Their souls, no longer in their possession, became one.

Janaka said, “Sita with Rama as her lord will bring glory to my dynasty and she, who is dearer to me than my very life, shall be the consort of Rama. With your consent, my emissaries will hasten to Ayodhya to convey this news to Dasaratha”. Emissaries were sent to Ayodhya for inviting King Dasaratha and his family for solemnizing Rama’s wedding with Sita.

The messengers of Janaka arrived in Ayodhya, and beholding god-like Dasaratha, told him most reverentially,"Janaka, the lord of Mithila, sends you his greetings and good wishes and hopes to hear that all is well with you.With the permission of Viswamitra, Janaka would like you to listen to his request. He conveys that his daughter was promised in marriage as a reward, in a trial of strength. In that trial your illustrious son, under Viswamitra's guidance and in the presence of thousands has emerged victorious! "Rewarding his strength, and redeeming my pledge I wish to give Sita to Rama.Do give your consent and hasten to Mithila, with thy preceptors and priests to share my delight", says Janaka. The messengers told Dasaratha of the details of the great event. Delighted with the joyous tidings, Dasaratha informed Vasishta, Vamadeva and the other ministers, that Rama and Lakshmana were at this time in the court of Janaka and that Janaka wanted to give his daughter in marriage to Rama. "If this union meets with your approval, let us set out to Mithila without losing time".Every one approved and the emissaries were told that the journey was set for the next day. Honored and pleased, the counselors of Janaka spent a happy and pleasant night at Ayodhya.

Dasaratha summoned Sumantra and told him "Today let the keepers of the treasury escorted by guards go ahead of us, carrying an abundance of wealth, gems and jewelery. He also instructed that the four divisions of the army were to be readied, to depart at his command and that Vasishta, Vamadeva, Jabali, Kashyapa, Markandeya and sage Katyayana should lead the procession.Since the emissaries of Janaka were eager to hasten back.The journey to Mithila started on the morrow. The royal entourage was preceded by the priests and followed by the army. Four days of travel brought them all to their destination. Janaka hearing of their arrival hurried forth to welcome and honor his guests. His happiness doubled at the presence of Vasishta, and he said, "Honored is my dynasty and greater will be its glory with the alliance of the mighty house of Ikshvaku. At dawn tomorrow, after the completion of the sacrifice, the marriage, as approved by the sages will be performed", And Dasaratha said, "Acceptance is always in the hands of the giver.So we shall act as you desire".Janaka amazed and moved at these words was full of admiration for Dasaratha and for his sublime qualities of righteousness. Thereafter the guests from Ayodhya spent an evening of joy and friendship, with their hosts at Mithila. Dasaratha, pleased with the achievements of his sons Rama and Lakshmana honored by Janaka spent that night in supreme satisfaction and joy.

A new day dawned and Janaka told his chief priest Satananda, of his valiant brother Kushadwaja. He lived in the city of Sankasya where the waters of the river Ikshumati washed its walls and battlements, "I wish to see him and share my good fortune with him", said Janaka. He instructed competent riders, to take swift horses to bring back his brother the great Kushadhwaja. Reaching Mithila, Kushadhwaja paid obeisance to Satananda and Janaka and was seated on the throne. Janaka then asked his minister Sudamana, to bring that most venerable of kings, Dasaratha, along with Rama, Lakshmana and the royal retinue to his court. When all had assembled Dasaratha said that Vasishta with the approval of Viswamitra, would relate to them the order of his ancestry".

Then started the preliminary step for a marriage, ‘Varanam’ in which the ancestry of the boy and girl would be spelt out, and a formal proposal for the marriage would be placed and accepted by both the parties. On behalf of the boys’ side, and on behalf of King Dasaratha, Sage Vasishta traced the genealogy of the Ikshwaku Kings right from Lord Brahma, Mareechi, Kasyapa, Surya-deva, Manu, Ikshwaku (the first King of Ayodhya), Prithu, Trisanku, Mandhata, Bharata, Sagara, Dileepa, Bhagiratha, Kakutsta, Raghu, Ambarisha, Nahusha, Aja. Aja’s son was King Dasaratha, father of Rama and Lakshmana. Sage Vasishta then requested King Janaka: “On behalf of King Dasaratha, as his family priest, I sue for your two daughters for the sake of Sri Rama and Lakshmana, belonging as they do to the line of the dynasty of Ikshwaku. Be pleased give away your worthy daughters to the two equally worthy princes.”

Janaka said that it was now his turn to speak of his genealogy. "There lived a king by name Nimi, who was best among men and a virtuous soul. He was known for his deeds in the three worlds. Nimi begot a son by name Mithi, who constructed the city of Mithila. He is the first Janaka, and his son was Udavasa. From him on, were Nandivardhana, Devaratha, Bhrihaddhrata, Mahavira, Sudhruti, Dhrishtaku, Hyrasva, Maru, Pratindhaka, Kiritiratha, Devamidha, Vibudha, MahIndra, Maharoma, Swarnaroma and Hrasvaroma. Hrasvaroma begot two sons, of whom I am the first -born. Kushdhwaja is my brother. The king, my father, bequeathing the kingdom to me retired to the forest, passing on the responsibility of Kushadhwaja to me.My father is no more and I still continue my affectionate protection of my brother and rule my kingdom righteously. Sometime ago, the king of Sankasya, Sundhava, sent a message that the sacred bow of Siva and my daughter Sita be given to him. My rejection brought about a great conflict and in the encounter between us, Sudhanva perished, and I crowned Kushadhwaja, king of Sankasya. On Rama I gladly bestow Sita, my daughter who is like one, born of the gods. Urmila my other daughter I bestow on Lakshmana.The marriages will take place three days from now, under the Uttaraphalguni star".

Great Sages always have a ‘divya drishti’ (divine vision) and when they speak, they unfold the destiny awaiting the people they talk about.

Viswamitra, the mighty ascetic said to Janaka "wonderful and beyond compare are the Ikshvaku and Videha races, the magnitude of their glory defies the mind and there are none equal to them.The union of Rama and Sita and that of Lakshmana and Urmila are dharmic and perfect. I now seek the daughters of Kushdhwaja as brides for the other two sons of Dasaratha.,'So be it' said Janaka 'Let Mandavi and SrutaKirti become the wives of Bharata and, Satruhgna respectively.The four princesses shall marry the four princes on the same day, the last day under the Phalguni star when Bhaga is in ascendancy.

King Dasaratha was the happiest man on the Earth at that time, with un-precedented luck, following one after another.

Taking leave of Janaka and accompanied by his esteemed preceptors and sages Dasaratha reached his place of dwelling where he conducted prenuptial ceremonies and rites.The brahmins were given thousands of cows in the name of his sons with all the fondness of a father for his sons.

The next day was the great day of marriage for the four princes. All the princes and their brides had come fully decked and shining with sacred strings around their wrists – a ritual to protect from evil forces. King Janaka requested Sage Vasishta to conduct the marriage ceremony, as per the ‘Sastras’. Vasishta agreed and with Viswamitra and Sadananda made a ‘Vedi’ for offering ‘homa’ and decorated with flowers, golden vessels and mango leaves and sprouted seeds; and vessels filled with water, colored rice as ‘Akshata’ etc. He also spread ‘darbha’ around the fire chanting ‘mantras’. He then kndled fire and offered oblations into the fire. Placing at his head the Sage Vasishta and other eminent sages too, and accompanied by all his three brothers, Sri Rama, who was dressed in a festive attire for wedding, also arrived at the hour known as ‘Vijaya’, which was propitious for a wedding. Vasishta then spoke to Janaka that the emperor Dasaratha awaited the pleasure of the donor and advised him to discharge his sacred obligation of redeeming his promise.

King Janaka then escorted his daughter, Sita decked with various ornaments, and dressed in a yellow and red silk. She very much looked like Goddess Lakshmi, descended from the lap of Vishnu, shining like a streak of lightning in the sky. She was made to stand in front of Sri Rama; then King Janaka adressed Sri Rama:

“Iyam Sita mama suthaa, saha-dharma-chari thava / Prateecha chainam bhadram tey /

Paanim grihnishwa paanina / Pativrataa maha bhaga / Chhayevaanugataa tava.”

“This Sita, my daughter will fulfill all your Dharma along with you; therefore, accept her. Bless you, all auspiciousness; please take her hand in your hand. She considers her husband as everything in her life. Fortunate as she is, she will follow you inseparably, like your shadow.”

(This verse from Ramayana is quoted in all weddings, when a bride is given in marriage.)

With this pronouncement, king Janaka poured sacred and sanctified water like a ‘dhara’, (continuous flow) on the clasped hands of Sri Rama and Sita. As this consecrated water fell on the ground, there was a heavy shower of flowers from the heavens, accompanied by divine music and dance of the Gandharvas and Apsaras.

Sita came to be the consort of the great Ikshvaku, Rama! In this manner did the other three weddings of Lakshmana and Urmila, Bharata and Mandavi, and Satrughna and SrutaKirti also take place! The princes and their consorts circumambulated the two sages and their parents and entered into holy matrimony. Apsaras danced, gandharvas sang and great joy prevailed amidst song, dance and drums.

This concludes the chapters 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72 and 73 of Balakanda where we had seen the entire episode of divine union of most beautiful, prototype couple for billions since ages - Rama&Sita. They are mostly looked up to as example of how a wife and husband should be and we will continue to look at ways of how they both co-existed as we traverse through the epic. The journey of Rama is incomplete without Sita and Ramayana very much revolves around Sita. We should specifically learn how a man or woman should be singularly attached to a companion and no one else from this epic. The epic as we should remember is a model for how a man and woman should behave towards each other. It is to be noted that Rama and Sita met at the time of wedding, which has been accepted by all the elders and sages. It is more of a modern day arranged wedding where the elders took an active part in the proceedings than the couple. The epic describes it that way and how the world rejoiced at the ceremony of four sons of Dasaratha. Let us continue to look at more impressions from this timeless story in further posts.

Tales in the Custody of Viswamitra Part 7, Viswamitra Transcends to Brahmarshi

 In the last post, we had seen the trio reaching Mithila and Satananda, son of Gautama and family priest of King Janaka started to narrate the important events in the life of Sage Viswamitra to Rama. The details about the rivalry of Viswamitra with Vasishta were discussed which prompted the former to realise the importance of Brahmanic power after the defeat in the hands of a simple sage Vasishta.

King Viswamitra after his debacle with Sage Vasishta wanted to be a ‘Brahmarshi’, equal to Vasishta. He went with his queen towards the South, and performed great penance, eating only roots and fruits and controlling his mind. In the meantime, he had got sons named Havishyanda, Madhushyanda, Dhritanetra and Maharatha. After many years of further penance Lord Brahma appeared before him and recognized him as a ‘Raja Rishi’. But Viswamitra could not accept anything less than the status of a ‘Brahma Rishi’. Therefore, he continued the ‘tapas’ indefinitely.

That was the time of a famous King, called ‘Tri-sanku’, who called on Viswamitra for help. Who was this King Tri-sanku? And what did he want from Viswamitra? All these are told in long stories in the ‘Ramayana’ and other scriptures.

Viswamitra took pity on him and wanted to help him and conduct a ‘Yaga’ with the help of priests, who dared not to say ‘No’ to him. During the Yaga, the Gods did not come when invoked for receiving the offerings. Viswamitra, with his yogic power, held the ladle of ghee high and looked at Tri-sanku and ordered him to ascend the heaven. It was the greatest wonder of wonders. Tri-sanku slowly ascended the heaven but was pushed down by Indra. While Tri-sanku cried for Viswamitra’s help, as he was falling head-long, Viswamitra roared, “Stop there, Stop there!” Tri-sanku stopped then and there midway with head down. Seated in the midst of Rishis, stupefied by anger that glorious sage Viswamitra, like Brahma evolved another group of seven constellations, (corresponding to the Great Bear) coursing in the southern quarter and further created a new galaxy of lunar mansions. Excited with anger, he set about evolving a hierarchy of gods and was about to create another Indra, when the ‘Devas’ came down and reconciled with him. They conceded Tri-sanku’s Swarga and all that Viswamitra had created. The Gods further said: “O Sage! Let Tri-sanku, happy as a God remain suspended with his head downward, shining brightly in the midst of those stars. These stars will circumambulate Tri-sanku who will be accomplished of purpose and glorious like a denizen of the heavenly regions.” The Gods were thus obliged to yield, and it was agreed that Tri-sanku, an immortal, should hang with his head downwards, and shine among some stars newly called into being by Viswamitra. Even today, we can see the galaxy created by Viswamitra in the sky, Tri-sanku upside down in what is known as “The Southern Cross”.

When Tri-sanku was pushed down from heaven, Viswamitra, outraged that his command was not honored, he asked Trisanku to halt. Standing among the sages resembling another creator Brahma, he created one more constellation of the seven planets in the southern part of the sky. Agitated and scornful he swore that he would also create one more Indra, and in his boundless fury started creating the very gods.

Though the devatas, asuras and sages told Viswamitra that Trisanku cursed by of his guru was not worthy of entering heaven with his body Viswamitra insisted that his promise to Trisanku should be honored. Saying "Forever shall this king of the Ikshavakus remain with his mortal body in heaven, and forever shall remain all that I have created. Let this be his eternal abode and may you all consent to this. 'So be it' said the gods agreeing that the innumerable constellations beyond the path of Vaisvanara would exist forever and Trisanku would live in that heaven shining amidst the stars like another celestial star. The sacrifice ended and the spectators dispersed lauding Viswamitra's powers.

Since Viswamitra lost much of his power earned by his austerities, he decided to move to Pushkara in the west for increasing his ‘tapas’, eating only roots and fruits. At that time, there was a great King of Ayodhya, named Ambarisha. Once while doing a horse-sacrifice, Lord Indra carried away the sacrificial horse. The priests informed him about the evil effects of such an obstruction in the Yaga. To atone for this, they suggested that within a stipulated time, he should offer a human sacrifice. The officiating priest of the horse-sacrifice said: “the sacrificial animal brought here has disappeared through your negligence. Sins accruing from such negligence destroy the king who fails to guard his sacrifice. Hunt out and bring quickly the lost animal or a human beast as a substitute, before the sacrifice actually commences. This is the atonement prescribed by the scriptures for loss of the consecrated animal.”The King searched far and wide to purchase a victim from poor parents by giving wealth in the form of cows and gold. He came across ‘Rishi Richika’ at Bhrigutungam, who agreed to give away his second son, Sunah-Sephas, who also volunteered to be a sacrificial victim. The King gave a hundred thousand cows and purchased the boy.

While the King was returning with Sunah-Sephas, they halted at Pushkara for rest. During this time, Sunah-Sephas saw his maternal uncle, Sage Viswamitra doing ‘Tapas’ there. He appealed to him to save him from death, without any problem for the King to fulfill his purpose.

Consoling Sunah-Sephas, Viswamitra spoke to his own sons: “This son of a hermit, who is yet a child, seeks deliverance through me. Do him a good turn, my dear sons, by merely parting with your own life. You take the place of the sacrificial victim on behalf of this boy.” The eldest son of Viswamitra, Madhuchhanda said: “How is it that you want to save another’s son, parting with your own sons?” Annoyed by this intrepid, insubordinate, and indignant reply, the Sage cursed his sons: “Like the sons of Vasishta, you shall be born on earth among Chandalas and Mushtikas, living on the flesh of dogs for full thousand years.” Sage Viswamitra then taught Sunah-Sephas two secret excellent psalms in praise of Lord Indra and Lord Vishnu to be chanted when he would be tied to the sacrificial post. Learning the two psalms as taught by sage Viswamitra, Sunah-sephas prompted King Ambarisha to start quickly for the resumption of the sacrifice, much to the surprise of the King.

When the Yaga resumed, Sunah-Sephas was tied to the sacrificial post with ‘darbha’ grass and decorated with red cloth, garlands etc. He chanted the verses with great devotion and faith. Propitiated through the mystic psalms, and filled with delight, Lord Indra, who was the ‘Adhidevata’ of this yagna was greatly pleased by the ‘mantras’ and appeared and blessed him long life. Indra also blessed King Ambarisha that he would get the benefit of the yaga without killing the human victim of sacrifice. Thus Sunah-Sephas could save his life through the help of Viswamitra, who adopted him as his son, and named him Devaratha.

Sage Viswamitra did penance for a thousand years on the sacred banks of the celebrated lakes, going by the name of ‘Pushkara’. At the end of full one thousand years, the ‘Devas headed by Lord Brahma appeared before him, and addressed Viswamitra the most pleasing words: “May good betide you! You have now become a ‘Rishi’, pure and simple, while you were only a royal sage (‘Rajarshi’) till now, by virtue of the austerities, performed by yourself.” This status of a ‘Rishi’ was higher than that of a ‘Rajarshi’. Not content with this, he performed more ‘tapas’ to attain the status of a ‘Brahma rishi’—one who had conquered all his sense organs.

One day Viswamitra happened to see the celestial nymph, Apsara named Menaka—a woman of extreme beauty. Overcome with passion, he invited her to his hermitage and was greatly enamored of her beauty. “I welcome you, O Celestial Beauty! You may stay in this hermitage of mine. Be gracious to me, infatuated as I am through love,” he said. They spent ten years together and got a child. Ten years were spent happily by Menaka while living in that pleasant hermitage of Viswamitra. So much time having rolled by unperceived, the great Sage Viswamitra felt ashamed as it were and fell a prey to anxiety and grief. Suddenly Viswamitra realized how he was a victim of the conspiracy of the ‘Devas’ to obstruct his austerities. He realized his own weakness and felt guilty and distressed with remorse, and he felt: “This is nothing but an obstacle that has come in my way.” Seeing Menaka standing and trembling with folded palms, he did not curse her, but bade her farewell with his kind words of blessings.

He then set out towards the mountains in the north resolving to subdue his passions and taking the vow of celibacy.In order to control his senses, Viswamitra performed unrelenting austerities for a thousand years on the banks of the river Kausiki.

The ‘Devas’ were ill at ease, because of his growing austerities and, Lord Brahma announced to him that, he had become now a ‘Maharshi’, by virtue of his penance. Viswamitra fell at his feet and with folded palms and said: “If you give me the status of a ‘Brahma Rishi’, then only I consider myself as one who has conquered my mind.” Lord Brahma replied: “You have to go a long way to become a ‘Jitendriya’ (one who has controlled all his sense organs). You have not been able to conquer your senses. Strive further.”

Viswamitra now continued his ‘tapas’, with more severity. With hands uplifted, without any support, without any food save air, he stood in summer with fire all around and with the Sun overhead. In rainy season, he did ‘tapas’ without any cover. In winter he stood in water, day, and night continuously. In this manner, he continued very severe ‘tapas’ for many thousands of years.

While the great Sage was practicing severe penance, deep anguish indeed seized the minds of the Gods as well as of Indra. Indra along with all the Gods called and then addressed the celestial nymph Rambha to break the penance or ‘tapas’ of Viswamitra.

The devatas hoped that Viswamitra would turn away from his penance bewitched by Rambha. But Rambha trembled at the very thought. Aware of Viswamitra's flaming temper she had no intention whatsoever of provoking the wrath of that Sage who was so deeply involved in penance. But Indra allaying her fears said that, come spring and with the trees in bloom, he would transform himself into a cuckoo to enchant and captivate Viswamithra while Kandarpa the god of love would help to make their efforts easy. Yielding to Indra's persuasion, Rambha reached Viswamitra who was listening to the cooing of a nightingale. Opening his eyes he beheld the nymph Rambha, in all her glory singing ever so softly. Her stunning beauty brought Viswamitra to the very brink of disaster, when with a start he recognized it to be the work of Indra. And in his fury he cursed the hapless, Rambha. "I condemn you and your evil attempts to instigate and entice me while I am trying to curb my anger and my passion. May you turn into a rock and remain so for ten thousand years until Vasishta a Brahmin of tremendous ascetic power liberates you!"

The minute the curse was pronounced Rambha turned into rock, Indra and Kandarpa fled in panic and Viswamitra was flooded with remorse, for having lost control over his temper. Tormented, at having labored in vain to subjugate his senses, witnessing the merit of all his limitless austerities disappear in a single moment, Viswamitra swore to resume his penance for another thousand years. "Starving my body and suspending my very breath, I shall not relent until I am declared a Brahmarshi. May my body sustain the power of my penance and not waste away".

Viswamitra left the northern quarter of the Himalayas and continued his austerities at the eastern quarter of the mountains. Vowed to silence, immersed in unprecedented practices he disregarded all hindrances. Emaciated and rendered thin as a reed by the intensity of his penance with great forbearance, the sage finally gained total mastery over his senses. One day, when he who had observed his vow of a thousand years so rigidly was about to partake of some cooked rice, Indra in the guise of a Brahmin came asking for food. Viswamitra silently, offered him all that there was without uttering a word and continued with the next phase of his penance, by suspending his breath for another thousand years until smoke started emanating from his head. So fierce was it that all the worlds felt as if they were on fire. The celestials with their fellow beings, the yakshas, gandharvas and the others bewildered by the might of the ascetic. Feeling faint in the heat of Viswamitra's effulgence they rushed to Brahma in anguish and pleaded. "Though disturbed by us many a time, no power, or ploy has succeeded in distracting this most noble sage. His austerities are growing, and he is sinless. If his desire is not granted, the three worlds will soon be consigned to ruin, for he will destroy them in his fury. There is turmoil in every direction, everything has lost its glow. The worlds look faint, the seas are tumultuous, the winds are tempestuous, the mountains shiver and the earth shudders. Even the sun pales before the dazzling brilliance of the venerable ascetic. Like the fire at the time of dissolution Viswamitra will consume the world. Grant him his wish, even if it be to rule the kingdom of the gods". The devatas and Brahma then went to Viswamitra to tell him that he had attained the status of Brahmarshi through his unsurpassed penance.

The illustrious Kausika accepting the honor said, "Since longevity and brahmin-hood have been conferred upon me, may I become the storehouse of the syllables, 'Om' and ‘Vashatkara' May the Vedas abide in me. Also, may the son of Brahma, Vasishta acknowledge me as Brahmarshi. Propitiated by the gods and the devatas, Vasishta gracefully and affectionately agreed,"Verily are you a Brahmarshi and you shall achieve ascetic perfection". Viswamitra, his long-cherished desire having come true, paid homage to Vasishta with joy. Thereafter the Brahmarshi wandered the entire world as an incarnation of austerities and an ultimate resort of power.

Janaka having heard this narration from Satananda bowed down in reverence to Kausika and said, " I am fortunate that you and Rama grace my yagna, by whose presence I am blessed and sanctified. Your austerities are renowned and all those assembled here are aware of them". Janaka and his preceptors circumambulated Viswamitra and returned to the palace while Viswamitra, Rama and Lakshmana retired to their abode.

This concludes chapters 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64 and 65 where we learnt about the important life events of Brahmarshi Viswamitra, to recall his greatness and the severe penance he observed to achieve his goal. We learnt about Tri-sanku and the heaven created by Viswamitra, story of Sunah-Sephas and how he was rescued, his severe penance and celestials Menaka and Rumba trying to break it, and finally becoming a Brahmarshi, who is an ultimate source of power and austerity. He is more than qualified to guide Rama in his adolescence and we had seen all that in the past few posts. We shall now progress to the huge bow of Shiva, Rama impeccable powers and subsequent marriage saga in kingdom of Janaka.

Tales in the Custody of Viswamitra Part 6 - Ahalya, King Viswamitra

In the last post, we had seen the complete narration on River Ganga by Viswamitra, came to know about the nectar of immortality and history of the place of Vishala where they stopped by for the night. The journey continues to the place of King Janaka. Let us see what there is to offer till the kingdom of Mithila is reached and once after they reached there.

Sumati, king of Vishala, coming to know of Viswamitra's arrival went with his preceptors and relatives to pay homage to Kausika and told him, "Blessed am I and my kingdom, there is none more fortunate than I". After mutual homage and pleasantries were exchanged king Sumathi asked the sage "Who are the two princes whose divine looks, rival those of the Aswini devatas? They look like the immortals coming down to bejewel mother earth. Whose sons are they? How did they come here on foot and for what purpose? They adorn the land like the sun and the moon". Astonished at their regal bearing and their vibrant youth the king marveled at the fact that they had undertaken the long and arduous journey without even horses. Viswamitra then told him of all that had come to pass, of their stay at Siddashrama and of the slaying of the rakshasas. King Sumati delighted to play host to the illustrious sons of an illustrious father extended loving hospitality to the Ikshvaku princes.

Rama and Lakshmana having been honored by king Sumathi, stayed there for the night. Next day on their way to Mithila they beheld an ancient hermitage in a grove that was beautiful but deserted. When Rama asked about it, Viswamitra said "Rama this hermitage formerly belonged to the illustrious Gautama where he and Ahalya practiced austerities for several years. One day, when Gautama was away, Indra used that opportunity to come to the hermitage, in the guise of Gautama. Dominated by his passion he sought union with Ahalya who consented though she saw through the guise. Later even as Ahalya was urging Indra to leave to protect him from Gautama's wrath, Gautama who walked in wet, wrapped in bark, holding sacrificial sticks and radiating an effulgence like that of the Sun. Invincible by the devatas, danavas and the ascetic endowed with spiritual splendor Gautama saw through Indra's masquerade and flew into a terrible fury. Cursing him to lose his virility for having committed that which was forbidden he also cursed Ahalya saying, ''May you remain here for thousands of years without food, living on air, lying in ashes, doing penance and invisible to all. When the son of Dasaratha, Rama enters this dreadful forest you will be cleansed of your sin. By offering him hospitality without covetousness and passion you will regain your present form and live with me". Gautama then left for the Himalayas."

Viswamitra continued with his story and said that Indra deprived of his virility had bewailed his lot in the presence of the gods led by Agni telling them " Creating hindrances to Gautama's austerities at the behest of the celestials I accomplished their objective but incurred the wrath of that great sage. You are all duty bound to help me recover my manhood". At his request, the devatas accompanied by the Maruths had approached the pitrudevatas(forefathers), who had them restored.

Viswamitra invited Rama to enter the hermitage and liberate Ahalya. There they beheld her, whose radiance had enhanced to such brilliance, that no devata or asura could not only behold it but could not even approach it. She shimmered and dazzled like the reflection of the sun in rippling waters. Ahalya beholding Rama was rid of her bane, rising out of the ashes and her curse, she paid him reverential homage while Rama and Lakshmana too touched her feet. Remembering Gautama's words, Ahalya offered Rama unconditional hospitality.

Ahalya purified by the power of her penance became the faithful consort of Gautama once again and the venerable couple honored Rama with great joy. Ahalya and Gautama returned to their life of austerities as earlier, while Rama, Lakshmana and their preceptor Viswamitra proceeded to Mithila after their sojourn at the hermitage. Thus Rama’s touching feet and presence liberated Ahalya from the curse and restored her past.

Viswamitra led the two princes to Mithila in a northeasterly direction to reach the sacrificial grounds to witness the elaborate preparations of Janaka's yagna. Brahmins came in thousands from different countries while hundreds of carts transported their belongings. Choosing a secluded spot, the preceptor and his two disciples rested.

When word reached Janaka, of the arrival of the holy ascetic he set out, preceded by Satananda his family priest, to offer obeisance to the great sage. Janaka looked at the two princes who seemed equal in valor to the very gods, whose bearing was akin to that of any elephant, tiger or bull and whose beauty rivaled that of Aswins. Wondering if they were immortals descended from heaven he said, "Whose sons are these well-armed warriors who adorn this land like the Sun and the Moon?" Viswamitra then presented the sons of Dasaratha to the king of Mithila and told him of their stay at Siddhashrama, the slaying of the rakshasas, their meeting with Gautama, and of their desire to see the mighty bow, which had prompted their journey to Mithila.

Satanada, son of Gautama was awed and delighted to see Rama. He asked of Viswamitra, about his mother Ahalya and also wanted to know if Rama was aware of what had taken place earlier and whether both his mother and father had paid a befitting and honorable homage to the great Ikshvaku prince. Viswamitra assured him that nothing had been omitted and that Ahalya and Gautama were reunited like Renuka and Jamadagni and Satananda said, "I shall tell you of the powers and achievements of Viswamitra. Rama, your presence here is due to our good fortune. You are blessed for having Viswamitra, who performed deeds that defy imagination. His fierce austerities have made him a divine sage and his knowledge knows no bounds for he is schooled in every branch of learning. Now, Satananda begins to elaborate on the history of Viswamitra to Rama which goes on from here.

Kusa, son of Brahma had a son called Kusanabha, who was supremely righteous and mighty and his son Gadhi is the father of Viswamitra. King Kausika protected and ruled the earth for many thousands of years. His happiness was the happiness of his subjects! Assembling his troops and Akshauhinis, he would roam the world traversing through cities, countries, kingdoms, hermitages, across rivers and over lofty mountains. Once during the course of travel, he reached the hermitage of Vasishta the beauty of which was breath taking. Inhabited by animals of many species, birds of a myriad colour and gentle deer the hermitage was filled with mammoth trees all vying with each other to contribute to its splendor. The retreat was home to many gandharvas, devatas, danavas, charanas, kinneras and siddhas. There were also divine sages who had reached perfection by way of austerities and saintly practices. Effulgent like the fire with all their senses under subjugation, appetites subdued, they were given to prayer and to offering libations. Some of the perfected souls lived on fruit and roots, some lived on dry leaves, while still others subsisted on nothing more than water and air. Viswamithra beheld this hermitage of Vasishta which looked like the land of the gods".

Viswamitra, overwhelmed with joy, paid respectful homage to the sages assembled there and Vasishta offered them his hospitality. Regaling each other with various incidents and musing over anecdotes of mutual interest, the two of them spent much time enjoying each other's company. After a while, Vasishta suggested that he would like to extend his hospitality to Viswamitra and his entourage, but Viswamitra said that hospitality was already more than extended when water and fruit were offered with so much love and grace. None of this dissuaded Vasishta and the king finally said,"So be it". Happy and pleased Vasishta called Kamadhenu (or Sabala), saying, "Sabala, listen! I have offered to feast the royal saint and his army, provide sumptuous food which should include all the six different tastes and flavors. Be ready with food and drink in large quantities".

Kamadhenu ever magnanimous and bounteous, produced a splendid feast, consisting of the most exotic of foods. The entire hermitage swarmed with the troops of Visvamitra, who enjoyed the feast to their hearts content. They dined royally and drank with great relish. Pleased with the magnificent display of such lavish hospitality, Visvamitra said to Vasishta, "Brahmin! You have honored me as it befits the king of kings! You are worthy of great praise and I am touched. Sabala is a gem and since the king is the procurer of gems, give me Sabala! She is rightfully mine. I shall give a hundred thousand cows in return". Vasishta, turning down the request very politely saying, "Never! Neither a thousand million cows nor silver in heaps will tempt me. Never will I part with my divine Sabala, I care for her like a virtuous man would, for his good name and fame.In offering oblations to gods and ancestors in tending the sacrificial fires, in fulfilling various necessities, and in procuring offerings to the many spirits and unto Agni, my dependence on Sabala is total.For these and a myriad other reasons, I cannot give up Sabala".

Undaunted Viswamitra, continued with his persuasion and bargaining. He tried tempting Vasishta with a gift of fourteen thousand horses adorned with gold trappings, eight hundred chariots made of gold, with four white horses yoked to each and as much gold as he desired. Eleven thousand mighty horses of the best of breeds were also added to the list but Vasishta's final say was "Giving away Sabala is not a possibility, for this divine cow, fulfilling my every wish and desire, is my wealth, and my very life".

“O jewel among the twice-born!” he said, “Let Sabala be given to me.” Sage Vasishta re-iterated: “I shall on no account part with Sabala, O King!” This led to a great war between the King and Sage Vasishta.

In spite of repeated requests and inducements, Sage Vasishta firmly refused Viswamitra’s insinuations to part with Kaamadhenu. King Viswamitra then tried to take by force and dragged her. The Divine cow was upset and thought: “Have I been deserted by the great Vasishta since I am being taken away by the King’s servants? What wrong has been done by me to that Seer?” Shaking off from the servants, she ran and told Sage Vasishta: “Have I been forsaken by you, O almighty son of Brahma, in that the King’s servants are actually taking me away from your presence?” “I am not abandoning you”, replied Vasishta, “O Sabala! Nor have you wronged me. Intoxicated with power, the mighty King is taking you away. My strength is not equal to his. He is an honoured guest and also a Kshatriya with an army.”

Hearing these words of Vasishta, Sabala replied, “The strength of a Brahmarshi is greater than that of a Kshatriya. I have been strengthened by your ‘Mantras’. Kindly engage me to defeat the purpose of that proud King.” Hearing the appeal of Kaamadhenu, Vasishta asked her to create an army that can defeat the forces of the enemy. Thereupon, even as Viswamitra was looking on, the divine cow issued an Army of ‘Paplavas’ or ‘Pahlavas’. These ‘Paplavas’ defeated the soldiers of Viswamitra, who became angry and killed many of them. Seeing them being killed, Sabala issued a further release of ‘Sakas’ who were terrible like the ‘Yavanas’. Clad in yellow, and armed with swords and ‘pattisas’, the entire army of Viswamitra was consumed by them as by blazing fires. King Viswamitra then released a number of missiles which stupefied the warriors created by Sabala. Then Sabala presented the Kambojas and the Barbaras, carrying weapons in hand. She also released the terrible Yavanas, the Mlechhas, the Haritas and the Kiratas. They wiped out instantly the entire Army of Viswamitra, including elephants, horses and foot soldiers. Seeing this extermination of the army, the hundred sons of King Viswamitra, then faced Vasishta with various weapons, and they were all burnt to ashes by the sound ‘Hoom’ produced by the Sage. The King became ashamed at the destruction of his army, as well as his sons. He lost all his glory like a sea that became motionless, like a serpent that lost its fangs, and like the Sun eclipsed by Rahu. Like a bird with crippled wings, he lost everything. He entrusted his kingdom to another son who was alive and retired to the forest, and performed severe ‘Tapas’. Lord Siva was pleased with his austerities and, as wished by Viswamitra, he was given all the weapons available with the Devas, ‘Maharshis’, Gandharvas, Yakshas and Rakshasas. The proud King Viswamitra, armed with all types of ‘Astras’ (Missiles) and ‘Sastras’ (weapons), known to the world, attacked Sage Vasishta and burnt his holy hermitage. Sage Vasishta took a staff—‘Brahma danda’, representing Brahmic strength and defended himself against the king, who used all the divine weapons at his disposal, including the never-failing ‘Brahma-Astra’. The entire world trembled with fear thinking that the world had come to an end. Even the ‘Brahma-Astra’ was absorbed in the ‘Brahma-tejas’ of the staff (‘Brahma-Danda’), which emitted flames like the fires at the Dissolution of the world. Viswamitra realized the supremacy of ‘Brahmic excellence’. He thought: “I have to achieve that status of a ‘Brahma-Rishi’ and nothing less than that.” He then began to do more severe ‘Tapas’ to achieve that goal. "Brahmanic power alone is the ultimate and I shall now seek it said Visvamitra." Thus, the King Viswamitra decides to turn himself into a Sage, Rishi and Maharishi to attain the highest order among men.

This concludes chapters 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 and 56 where we learnt about the hospitality of Sumati, King of Vishala, Ahalya and her liberation from curse by Rama, reaching Mithila, introduction to Janaka and hearing the important events shaping Viswamitra from Satananda, son of Gautama. Rama, Lakshmana and master Viswamitra had already reached Mithila, their last destination. We had seen many important experiences, stories, learnings, and life-events of Rama in the august presence of Sage Viswamitra till now. Remember, Rama was simply a royal prince without any worldly exposure and learnings, till then. The person who played an important part in pre-adult life of Rama must be someone exceptional. The epic, at this stage presents all the life details of the sage who reached that stage. This, we will learn in this and subsequent posts after which the divine union, marriage saga of ideal man and woman - Rama and Sita will take place.

Tales in the Custody of Viswamitra - Part 5, River Ganga, Nectar of Immortality

 In the last post, we had seen the narration on River Ganga by Viswamitra, Ikshvaku king Sagara, his sons who are perished by the anger of Kapila. In this post we will continue to see the story of how the River Ganga was bought to Earth by a descendant of Sagara to perform the purifications of his sons, Bhagiratha. It has to be noted that Bhagiratha practiced severe penance to fulfill his wish of bringing the river of purity to flow on Earth. His story thus became the synonym for massive efforts to achieve anything in this world – put efforts like Bhagiratha and you will succeed. Let us learn about how he achieved the impossible.

The story of Sagara resumes here - Realising the long absence of his sons, who were gone for a very long time Sagara sent for Anshuman, his valiant grandson. He told him that accomplished as he was in the arts of war and equal to his forefathers, he ought to search for the path taken by his uncles and also for the thief who had led away the horse. "Remarkable and indomitable are the powers of those that inhabit the nether worlds, take your bow and your sword to ward them off. Pay homage to those that deserve homage and destroy those that hinder you. Come back victorious and help me to complete my sacrifice."

Hurrying forth, Anshuman traveled by the path created and taken by his uncles, to reach the depths of the earth. There he saw the Diggajas being worshiped by the devatas, danavas, daityas, pisachas, rakshasas, birds and serpents. The princes too worshipfully went round the first celestial elephant and asked of their uncles and of him who had robbed the horse. Hearing Anshuman, the celestial elephant blessed him with his successful return home with the horse. Out of respect for the other three Diggajas, the son of Asamanjasa made inquiries of them too, who also gave him benediction for his victory.

Striding swiftly Anshuman reached the place where his uncles were reduced to a heap of ashes and also sighted the horse grazing in peace close by. He wept in anguish, at the fate of his uncles. Wishing to perform their funeral rites, Anshuman looked around for water, but saw none. At a distance he spotted his great uncle, Garuda, king of birds and son of Vinata who came to him and said, "Your uncles have been consumed by none other than the divine Kapila. You should not offer them the water of this world. You may get the holy water of Ganga, which alone will attain them heaven. Perform the rites and go back to complete the sacrifice, undertaken by your father". Thus require the holy water of Ganga to purify his uncles.

Anshuman returned to Ayodhya and made known to Sagara of what had happened. Though Sagara was devastated at the dreadful news, composing himself he concluded the great sacrifice. Without ever deciding to bring the river Ganga to earth he ruled for thirty thousand years and reached the land of the gods.

With the passing away of Sagara, the ministers installed Anshuman as the king who proved to be noble. Born of him was Dilipa a worthy son of great repute known for his righteousness. Anshuman passing on his crown to Dilipa retired to the Himalayas where he performed a great penance for thirty two thousand years and later reached the heavens. Dilipa though mighty found no way to bring down the sacred waters of the Ganga, to earth.He brooded and deeply regretted his inability to find salvation for the souls of his grand sires. To him was born a son, Bhagiratha. After ruling the earth for thirty thousand years Dilipa too passed on reaching heaven by merit of his righteousness. Bhagiratha, heir to the Ikshvaku throne was without children. Determined to bring Ganga down into the world, he went to that holy place known as Gokarna and began a rigorous penance. Partaking of food once in thirty days, with all his senses under control, he practiced severe penance for thousands of years. When Brahma Prajapathi arrived with his armies of devatas and told Bhagiratha that he was pleased with his devotion Bhagiratha requested him, "May all the sons of Sagara, receiving funeral libations by me with the sacred water of the Ganges reach heaven and may I be blessed with a son."

Brahma now said that the force of the descent of that glorious and mighty river Ganga would prove too much for the earth to bear. He asked Bhagiratha to pray lord Siva to make the descent of Ganga bearable. Brahma also urged Ganga to grant the prayer of Bhagiratha's prayer.

After the gods had departed Bhagiratha standing on the tip of his big toe commenced his adoration of Siva, for a whole year. Lord Siva pleased with such great devotion appeared promising to bring down Ganga and break the tremendous force of the fall on his head. Assuming the form of a mighty river Ganga started her glorious descent. While cascading and gushing down a thought occurred to her that with the torrential force of her descent, she could press down Siva to the lower regions of the nether world. Siva angered at her arrogance, decided to humble, and hold her unseen, in his matted locks. As Ganga plunged from the skies she fell into those uncoiled locks of Siva, which in their spread resembled the Himalayan mountains. Born at the feet of lord Vishnu, brought down to earth by Bhagiratha, Ganga found no way out of them. Trapped and confused she meandered in there for a great many years invisible to all and unable to extricate herself.

Not able to discern Ganga, Bhagiratha resumed his penance once again. A full year went by. Lord Siva relented and released the captive river in little drops into Lake Bindusara. Overflowing the banks of the lake she divided herself into seven streams. The first three, Haldini, Pavani and Nalini took an easterly direction. Suchakshu, Sita and Sindhu with their lovely waters flowed westwards and the seventh followed the divine chariot of Bhagiratha. Thus, Mother Ganga came down from the heavens and the torrential cascade of that magnificent river caused a great reverberation. Shoals of fish slithered down like streaks of lightening, tumbling, and turning came turtles and multitude sea monsters while the frothing water untamed spewed as wild foam scattering around which resembled flocks of swans in flight. The devas, yakshas, gandharvas and hosts of siddhas beheld the awesome spectacle of the thundering, tumultuous descent of the river. Celestial beings came in droves. They came in chariots, which looked as big as cities. They came on horseback, and they came, riding mammoth elephants to witness the awesome descent. The gods too came irradiating the canopy of the heavens with their effulgence and the dazzle of their ornaments, creating the brilliance of a thousand Suns. The meandering Ganga flowed, curving gracefully and gently in places, rapid and gushing elsewhere. At places with a great force her turbulent waters dashed against rocks, shooting upwards and breaking into a million crystalline droplets to fall back again. Shimmering and twisting like a sinuous serpent, she reached the ocean, with its brilliant blue waters.

King Bhagiratha rode on, with Ganga right behind him until they reached the land where sage Jahnu was performing austerities. There the gurgling Ganga swept away the sacrificial grounds and the enraged seer drank up the entire river. Alarmed, the devatas worshipped Jahnu, imploring him to forgive Ganga and treat her like his daughter. Pacified the sage released her and because he released her through his ears Ganga earned the name Jahnavi. Having brought down the sacred river with such tremendous effort, Bhagiratha led Ganga, right down into the nether worlds. Even as he beheld the ashes of his ancestors the divine waters inundated them and the sons of Sagara absolved of their sins reached heaven.

Lord Brahma appeared and told Bhagiratha, "As long as the waters of the sea continue on this earth, so long shall the sons of Sagara remain in heaven, and remain liberated.Henceforth Ganga will become your eldest daughter. She will also be famed in this world as Bhagirathi. Giving birth to three tributaries she will also be called Tripathaga, flowing in and purifying the three worlds. Fulfill your duty and perform the funeral rites. Mighty Sagara could not accomplish this purpose. Anshuman with his unlimited powers could not do so it and Dilipa tried but in vain. You have acquired everlasting renown by achieving this act of the highest form of Dharma. Sanctify yourself with these holy waters, perform the libations of your forefathers and return to Ayodhya. With his mission accomplished king Bhagiratha returned to his kingdom to resume his sovereign duties. Whosoever listens to this spiritual history of the descent of Ganga shall have all his desires fulfilled, his sins absolved and will be blessed with longevity".

Rama listened to Visvamitra's narration of the descent of Ganga and said "Brahmin, as I sat with Saumitri in contemplation of that wonderful story related by you, the glorious night passed as though it were but a moment". Thereafter, Visvamitra, Rama and Lakshmana crossed the holy river. On reaching the northern bank, and the city of Vishala, comparable only with Amaravathi, the abode of Indra. Visvamitra said, "Rama, listen to the legendary story of Indra. In Krita yuga, the sons of Diti were very strong and those of Aditi were valorous and righteous. They once questioned themselves, "May we not succumb to disease, to old age and to death. How?”

Reflecting on the matter, they resolved to churn the ocean and obtain the nectar of immortality. There upon they made Vasuki the great serpent as the cord, to churn the ocean, with mount Mandara as the churning rod and whipped up the oceans relentlessly, reaching the very nether world.A thousand years passed by and a terrible venom was born. It was Halahala. Virulent and fiery, it began to destroy the devatas, the asuras and the mortals, threatening the very universe. The gods sought refuge in Hari and Hara (Siva). Hari approaching Siva gently said, "As leader of the devatas and the first born among them, whatever is produced first shall be offered to you. Siva, undaunted drank the dreadful poison without protest, as if it were nectar and returned to his abode, mount Kailas. The devatas and the danavas resumed the churning of the ocean once again but the churning rod Mandara sank to its and they invoked lord Visnu's protection. Assuming the form of a tortoise the lord supported the mountain on his back. In this way passed another ten hundred years, at the end of which the first to emerge out of the seas was Dhanvantari carrying a water jar.

Then came the six hundred million beautiful nymphs as the ravishing Apsarasas. There after came Varuni, daughter of Varuna, searching for a consort. Diti's sons did not accept her. But the sons of Aditi did. The sons of Ditti were called Asuras and the sons of Aditi were called Suras. Ucchaishrava, the celestial steed, Kausthubham the jewel, were the next to emerge from the foaming turbulence of the ocean. Then came the divine potion, the nectar of immortality, Rama! The emergence of this caused the ruin of an entire race, since the sons of Aditi warred with the sons of Diti, for tne nectar. The asuras befriending the rakshasas began a fearsome battle, sending waves of shock and terror in the three worlds. When the extermination was complete and all had perished, Vishnu transforming himself into Mohini the enchantress seized the nectar. All those who opposed him fell prey to his might and in the dreadful battle which ensued and the sons of Diti were vanquished by Indra and the sons of Aditi. Indra having killed the sons of Diti and gained the kingdom was pleased and ruled the three worlds in the company of sages and celestial beings" concluded Visvamitra.

Visvamitra said that when Diti distressed at the death of her sons, beseeched Kasyapa for a son who would slay Indra and he granted her wish saying, "So be it. Make yourself pure, for you will beget the son who will destroy Indra. At the end of a thousand years, if your vow of purity is not broken, a son will be born to us who will be invincible in all the three worlds." Kasyapa departed to perform penance and Diti made way to Kusaplvana to embark on her intense penance. While Diti was thus occupied, Indra was in attendance at all times. He served her with reverence, with humility and with diligence for alleviating her fatigue. Ten more years remained for the completion of the thousand years and Diti told Indra, that soon he would have a brother, who would have vanquished him.

As she conversed with Indra, Diti overcome by sleep, slept with her feet placed, where her head should have been there destroying her vow of purity was destroyed. Indra instantly seized the opportunity to enter her body and cut the fetus into seven pieces with his weapon. The embryo cried out in terrible anguish. Diti awoke pleading not to kill the fetus and Indra emerging out said, "I made good the opportunity, when you lapsed in your austerities. I slayed the one who would have been the slayer of Indra. May I be forgiven".

It dawned on Diti that disaster had struck through her own fault. Overcome with grief, she asked a favor of Indra. "Let the seven fragments of the fetus become the guardians of the regions of the seven winds, and may they be famed as Maruths." When Indra assured Diti that her sons handsome as the gods would indeed grace the celestial worlds her wish fulfilled, Diti reached the land of the immortals".

Visvamitra further said that it was the place where Diti had practiced austerities and was known to the world as Vishala. By the grace of the Ikshvakus, the powerful and virtuous inhabitants of Vishala were blessed with longevity and magnanimity. The great sage then decided that they would rest in Vishala for the night and see king Janaka, the next day. Meanwhile Sumati, king of Vishala, coming to know of Visvamitra's arrival went with his preceptors and relatives to pay homage to Kausika and told him, "Blessed am I and my kingdom, there is none more fortunate than I".

This concludes the chapters 41,42,43,44,45,46 and 47 of Balakanda where we learnt about the great efforts of Bhagiratha to bring the holy water of river Ganga to purify his ancestors, Diti, Aditi and churning of milky ocean to get the nectar of immortality, a tale on Indra, the significance of place Vishala where the entourage stopped by for the night. The men will soon reach Mithila for Janaka’s yagna which we will see in subsequent post after looking at another tale behind a historic place in between.