Story Sri Rama and Tataka Ramayana

Story Sri Rama and Tataka Ramayana

The story of Sri Rama and Tataka is found in the Hindu epic Ramayana. Tataka’s father Suketu was a Yaksha king who performed Tapas to please Lord Brahma so as to obtain an offspring. Suketu desired a son, but Brahma blessed him with a daughter, beautiful and strong in physique. She was Tataka who married Sunda. She had two sons Maricha and Subahu and a daughter, Kaikasi.

Tataka and Sunda planned to marry off Kaikasi to the Rishi Visravas in order to obtain a progeny that would be all-powerful. Visravas, although already married, fell in love with Kaikasi and married her. Their son was Ravana, the mighty King of Lanka. Once, Rishi Agastya cursed Tataka’s father Suketu to death. Tataka decided to wreak vengeance on the sage. She had the help of her son, Subahu.  This enraged Agastya and he cursed Tataka to lose her beautiful physique, and transform into a demonic creature with a cruel and cannibalistic nature. The curse transformed Tataka into a man-eater with an ugly and fierce figure. After the curse of Agastya, Tataka started living in a place near the habitations of Malaja and Karusha in a forest near the river Ganga, opposite to the confluence of the river Sarayu. The area came to be known as the forest of Tataka. She terrorized the people, devouring anyone who dared to set foot in that forest.

Tataka and Subahu harassed many Rishis by destroying their Yagas with rains of flesh and blood. Maharshi Visvamitra was the most affected victim of Tataka's harassment. At last, Visvamitra approached Dasaratha, the King of Kosala, for help. The King obliged by sending two of his four sons, young Rama and Lakshmana, to the forest, entrusting them to protect both Visvamitra and his sacrifice.

Visvamitra and the two princes Sree Ram and Lakshmana came to Tataka’s forest and the sage ordered Lord Rama to kill the demoness to free the area from her terror. Rama was hesitant to kill her as she was a woman. He chopped off her hands so that she could not attack anyone further. Using her demonic powers, she changed her form, disappeared and continued her attack. Visvamitra advised Lord Ram that though a woman, Tataka was terrorising the region and as a prince, it was Sri Rama’s duty to protect the people by killing the terrorists who plagued his people. Rama was thus convinced of killing Tataka. He pierced her heart with his arrows.

source : http://www.hindudevotionalblog.com/2014/07/story-sri-rama-tataka-ramayana.html

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Story of Maricha Golden Deer in Ramayana

Story of Maricha Golden Deer in Ramayana

Maricha, one of the characters in Ramayana, plays the most notable role in Ravana’s kidnapping of Sita. Once, demon Sunda (son of Jamba or Jharjha) attacked the hermitage of Agasthya Rishi. The angry sage burnt him by his meditative powers. On Sunda’s death, his wife Yaksha Thataka and his sons Mareecha and Subahu attacked Agastya. The sage cursed them to become demons.
Vishwamitra’s Yajna 

Rama killing Tataka

Viswamitra's Yajna

Sage Vishwamitra was performing a sacrifice. He was tormented by Tataka and her sons. Visvamitra approached Dasaratha, the king of Ayodhya, and requested him to send his eldest son, Rama to protect his sacrifice. Though with reluctance, Dasaratha sent 13-year old Rama and his younger brother Lakshmana with Visvamitra. Near the forest of Tataka, the demoness attacked them. Rama, aided by Lakshamana, slew her with his arrow. Vishvamitra reached his ashram and began his sacrifice. On the sixth day, Maricha and his brother Subahu, appeared and tried to destroy the sacrificial fire. Rama fired his arrow and Maricha was thrown hundred leagues away. The sacrifice was completed successfully. Under the guidance of Visvamitra, Rama wed Sita, the adopted daughter of Janaka and the princess of Mithila.

Maricha fight with Rama in Dandakaranya

Later, Dasaratha directed Rama for an exile in forest for 14 years, at the behest of Rama's step mother Kaikeyi. Rama proceeded to forest. Lakshmana and Sita followed him. The trio travelled through the Dandaka forest to the banks of the river Godavari, where they built a hermitage at Panchavati. Once, Maricha saw them and attacked them to wreak vengeance. Rama killed Maricha's allies, but his arrow narrowly missed Maricha, who fled. Surpanakha, the sister of Ravana, requested Rama to marry her. Rama refused and directed her to Lakshmana. Lakshmana joked at her. Surpanakha attacked Sita. Lakshmana cut out her ears and nose. Surpanakha reached Lanka and prompted Ravana to steal Sita.

Rama, Sita & Laxman and the golden deer

Rama going to catch the golden deer

Rama setting arrow on goden deer

Ravana went to meet his uncle, Maricha. He told Maricha to turn into a golden deer with silver spots and graze near Rama's ashram. On seeing the deer, Sita would surely tell Rama and Lakshamana to catch it. When they would leave Sita alone, Ravana would abduct her. Rama, aggrieved by Sita's separation, would be easily killed by Ravana. Maricha dissuaded Ravana. Ravana reiterated his plan and finally Maricha agreed.

Maricha’s disguise as Golden Deer

Maricha and Ravana flew to Panchavati. Maricha assumed the form of a beautiful golden deer, which had silver spots. It appeared in the vicinity of Rama's ashram. Sita was collecting flowers. The golden deer lured Sita, who called Rama and Lakshmana to see it. Lakshmana sensed foul play and suggested that the deer was Maricha. Sita persuaded Rama to get her the deer. Rama asked Lakshmana to take care of Sita and went after the deer. Maricha ran, followed by Rama. After a long chase, Rama shot him down. Maricha took his real form and cried out mimicking Rama's voice "Oh Sita! Oh Lakshmana!" Sita asked Lakshmana to go and search for Rama. Lakshmana insisted that no one could harm Rama. Worried Sita ordered Lakshmana to go. Lakshmana reluctantly left. Immediately, Ravana appeared as a mendicant. Sita stepped forward to give him alms and he kidnapped her.

source :http://www.hindudevotionalblog.com/2013/12/story-maricha-golden-deer-ramayana.html

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Story of Sugriva Vali and Rama

Story of Sugriva Vali and Rama

The story of Sugriva is found in the Kishkindha Kanda of Ramayana. Sugriva was the son born of Surya to Ahalya, the wife of Sage Gautama. Ahalya had another son, Vali or Bali, born of Indra. Gautama threw both the illegitimate sons into the sea after cursing them to be turned into monkeys. Vali came of age and became the king of Kishkindha, the kingdom of holy monkeys.

Once, the demon named Mayavi challenged Vali for a fight. Vali accepted the challenge, but the demon fled into a cave. Vali ran after him and a long fight took place inside the cave. Sugriva waited outside. He heard demonic shouts in the cave and later saw blood oozing from the mouth of the cave. Sugriva thought that Vali was dead. He returned to Kishkindha and assumed kingship. Vali was not dead. He won the combat and returned home. He concluded that his brother had betrayed him. He ousted Sugriva and ascended the throne. He took Sugriva’s wife Tara also for himself. Sugriva fled to the mountain Rishyamuka, where Vali could not tread. Vali was previously cursed by Sage Matanga that he would die, once he stepped into Rishyamuka.

Sugriva made acquaintance with Srirama, who was on his quest to rescue Sita, who was abducted by Ravan. Sugriva sought the help of Rama. Lord Ram promised that he would kill Bali and reinstate Sugriva as the king. Sugriva, in turn, promised to help Rama in his quest for Sita. Sugriva and Sree Rama went together to Vali. Fight ensued between Vali and Sugriva. Rama drove an arrow and Vali died. Sugriva regained kingdom. He took back his wife Tara and also Vali’s wife Ruma. Tara became empress. Her son by Vali, Angada became crown prince.

Rama proceeded to Lanka in search of Sita. Sugriva sent his trusted advisor Hanuman to search for Sita. Hanuman found out Sita who was kept captive in Lanka. Sugriva placed his army of monkeys at Rama's disposal. The army crossed into Lanka by means of the specially erected bridge and laid siege to Ravana's citadel. Sugriva also personally took part in the battle. He attacked Kumbhakarna with the trunk of a Sala tree. Kumbhakarna then seized Sugriva and dragged him off. He would have been killed. But Lakshmana intervened and saved him. At last the monkeys defeated the demons, Rama slew Ravana, and Sita was liberated. All of them came back to India on board of Ravana’s aircraft Pushpaka. 

source : http://www.hindudevotionalblog.com/2014/06/story-of-sugriva-vali-and-rama.html

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Ganga Origin Story Bhagiratha bringing Ganga to Earth

Ganga Origin Story Bhagiratha bringing Ganga to Earth

The origin of Ganga relates to the story of Bhagiratha bringing Gangato Earth. The story of Gangavatara is mainly found in the Balakanda of Ramayana. Once, Sagara the king of Kosala decided to perform the Asvamedha sacrifice. The sacrificial horse was sent out and his royal agents followed it. During the journey the royal agents lost track of the horse. Sagara had sixty thousand sons by his wife Sumati. He ordered his sons to track down the horse. The proud princes raged across the land of Bharat. It was a fierce march burning down forests and damaging life and property, everything in the name of finding out the horse. At last they arrived at the abode of Sage Kapila where they found the white horse. Mistaking Kapila as a thief, they attacked him. The sage opened his eyes and cursed them. All the princes were turned into ashes.

Later, Kapila was consoled and he said that the only way for the souls of the dead princes to ascend to heaven would be through an offering at the sacred Ganga river (Ganges), which was flowing only in heaven then. Bringing Ganga to Earth was an impossible task and the successive generations of the kings of Kosala could not do that. The ill-effect resulted in natural disasters in the kingdom. The kingdom lost its peace and prosperity. By the time Bhagiratha ascended the throne, it was impossible to govern the kingdom though he was a very efficient ruler. 

At last, King Bhagiratha entrusted the kingdom to his ministers and set out to the Himalayas to perform an arduous Tapas in the extreme climate. He performed Tapas (penance) for one thousand years to please Lord Brahma. At the end, Brahma was pleased and asked him for his wish. Bhagiratha asked Brahma Dev to bring the river Ganges down to earth so that he may perform the ceremony for his ancestors. Brahma advised Bhagiratha to propitiate Lord Shiva because he was the only person capable to hold Ganga when she comes down. Bhagiratha propitiated Mahadev. After one year's penance, Bholenath appeared and told Bhagiratha that he would make Ganga fall on his matted locks (jata).

Ganga started to flow down to earth. Lord Shiva captured all of Ganga in his jata. Then Ganga fell on earth without hurting it. Bhagiratha’s efforts caused Ganga to come to the earth and so she is also called Bhagirathi. Ganga wanted to set herself free. She flowed and destroyed sage Jahnu’s ashram. Annoyed by the same, Jahnu swallowed Ganga. Bhagiratha again prayed to Jahnu to let out Ganga and Jahnu released her. Hence, Ganga is also known as Jahnavi. Ganga then flowed over the remains of the 60,000 ancestors of Bhagiratha and brought them release. The term Bhagirathaprayatna (effort of Bhagiratha) has come into use in the sense of taking pains to do something which is generally impossible. 

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Story of Shiva Bhasmasura and Mohini

Story of Shiva Bhasmasura and Mohini

Story of Bhasmasura and Shiva or Bhasmasur and Mohini in Hindu Mythology. Enmity between the Devas and Asuras is widely depicted in Indian mythology. The Devas are considered to be ideal heavenly persons while the Asuras are cruel and dangerous beings who always create problems. As described in the Puranas, it was the duty of the Devas to destroy such Asuras.

The story of Bhasmasur is very famous. Bhasmasura was a devotee of Lord Shiva. He performed great penance to obtain a boon from Shiva. As a result of his penance, Mahadev became pleased and told him to ask for a boon. Bhasmasura asked for immortality, but Shiva said that he did not have the power to grant him immortality. Bhasmasura then changed the mode of the boon he wanted. One whose head is touched by Bhasmasura with his forefinger, should immediately burn up and turn into ashes (bhasma). This was his demand. Siva granted him the same boon.

Bhasmasura was immensely happy and with overwhelming joy, he decided to test the boon on Mahadev himself.  Soon, he attempted to touch the head of Shiva with his forefinger. He wanted to burn Siva and turn into ashes and then possess Goddess Parvati. Siva fled, but he was chased by Bhasmasura. Wherever Mahadeva went, there Bhasmasura also followed. At last, Siva managed to reach the abode of Vishnu and sought a solution to the predicament, for which he himself was responsible.

On hearing Shiva’s problem, Mahavishnu agreed to help him. Vishnu took the form of Mohini and appeared in front of the demon. Mohini was so exceedingly beautiful that Bhasmasur was immediately attracted by her. Bhasmasura requested Mohini to marry him. She replied that she was very much fond of dancing, and would marry him, only if he could match her moves in dance. Bhasmasura agreed and hence they started dancing. The event went on for days, as Bhasmasura matched Mohini’s move for move. While dancing, Mohini struck a pose where her hand, especially the forefinger was placed on top of her own head. As Bhasmasura imitated her, he touched his own head with his forefinger and was immediately burnt up and turned into ashes, in accordance with the boon he had gained.

There are slightly different versions also for this story. But there is no difference in the core of the story. There originated the proverb, “like the boon given to Bhasmasura based on this story. It denotes one’s own action turning against oneself and endangering oneself.

source : 

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SHIVA GRIHAPATI AVATAR

Shiva Grihapati Avatar

Story of Lord Shiva’s Grihapati Avatar. A Brahmin named Visvanara and his wife Shuchismati lived on the banks of Narmada river. Even after a long period of married life, they did not have a child. Both were very sad about this. Suchishmati always complained Vishwanar (Visvanara) for not finding out a solution for the problem. Visvanara was a devotee of Lord Shiva. He decided to proceed to Kashi and pray to Lord Siva. He reached Kashi and started prayer. Mahadev was pleased with the prayer of his devotee and so decided to bless him. Siva appeared before Visvanara, blessed him and promises to taken birth as their son.

In due course of time, Shuchismati became pregnant and on maturing pregnancy, she gave birth to a beautiful child. The whole family celebrated the birth of the child. The name giving ceremony of the child was attended by all the deities and sages including Lord Shiva and Parvati. Lord Brahma named the child as Grihapati.  When Grihapati attained the age of five, his sacred thread ceremony was performed. He started learning the Vedas in the traditional way and within one year, he became proficient in all the Vedas and other sacred texts.

When Grihapati attained the age of nine, Narada came to visit the family. Narada said that Grihapati would have a fear of fire. He also informed Visvanara that death of Grihapati was imminent, because of the evil effects of the planetary combinations. Visvanara and Suchishmati were very sad and started crying. Grihapati then consoled his parents and proceeded to Kasi to do penance in order to avoid death. In Kasi, Grihapati found out an auspicious place and placed a Shivalinga there. Beside the Sivaling, he commenced his penance with prayers. On knowing about the act of Grihapati, Lord Indra arrived there and blessed him. He requested him to demand anything he wished as boon. However, Grihapati refused to demand anything. Indra became furious upon this and tried to attack him with his Vajrayudha (weapon Vajra). Grihapati was very much frightened. He prayed to Lord Shiva for protection.

Immediately, Lord Siva appeared before him. On seeing Bholenath, Indra was forced to retreat from the scene. Mahadeva blessed Grihapati and said – “Do not be afraid of this Vajra of Indra. No Vajra would be able to kill you.”

Grihapati became very happy. The Sivalinga which he worshipped in Kashi, later on became famous as “Agnisvaralinga or Agnishwar Linga”. Shiva made Grihapati the lord of all the directions.

Source : http://www.hindudevotionalblog.com/2014/02/shiva-grihapati-avatar.html

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Shiv Mahapuran with English Subtitles - Shiv Mahapuran Episode 50 GRIHAP...

Brahmin's Poverty eradicated
by Sadguru's Grace

         Friends, this is a story of Sri Dattaguru's third incarnation Akkalkot'sSwami Samarth. He has blessed many of his devotees. This is a story of a poor Brahmin, one of the devotees.

         This story began when Sree Guru arrived from Bhiwadi to Kuravpur where there is a confluence of rivers Panchganga and Krishna. This area is also known as Kashi of the south. Every afternoon Sri Guru would go to Amarpur to collect alms and would bless his genuine devotees.

         A poor Brahmin lived in this village of Amarpur. Everyday he would ask for hand-outs in the village and would manage his livelihood with whatever he received. He would worship every guest who visited him, and serve the guest the food he received in hand-out. His wife would never let any guest leave the house empty handed. They were happy living in theis fashion and singing hymns of God.

         One day Sri Guru went to the house of Brahmins asking for alms. But the Brahmin had gone to collect hand-outs himself. The Brahmin's wife offered a seat to Sri Guru and performed his worship. But she was wondering as to what gift she would offer to Sri Guru. There was nothing left in the house. After thinking for a long time she had an idea. In the courtyard of the house there was a big Ghevda Plant (Lima beans) which had lot of pods . The Brahmin's wife plucked few pods and cooked a dish and served it to Sri Guru. Sri guru was very pleased. He said, “Your poverty has now come to an end”. As he was departing, he blessed them and removed by chopping the Ghevada plant from bottom.

         The Brahmin's wife became sad and started crying on witnessing the above act od Sri Guru . After a while the Brahmin returned home. The wife told him about the whole incident. Brahmin responded by saying, “Sri Guru has blessed you, keep faith in him”.

         The Ghevda plant (lima beans) was cut by Sri Guru. Now to remove it completely from the ground the Brahmin took the pick-axe and began removing the roots of the plant. And lo! What a surprise! While digging he found a pot full of jewels. The couple became very happy. They went to seek blessing of Sri Guru. They performed his worship and told him the whole story.

Moral : Friends, from above story, you will agree that extending hospitality to the guest and offering even a small gift to God with pleases God.

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Generous Karna



         Karna was Duryodhan’s special friend. He was well known for his generosity. He never used to send back any needy person empty handed. Every morning, Karna used to go to the river bank for a bath and give oblation of water to the Sun-God. After his bath, while returning home, if any needy person came before him, he never used to return him back empty handed.

         Once, Lord Shrikrushna and Arjun were engaged in a conversation. They were talking about Karna’s generous nature. Shrikrushna praised Karna for his generosity. He said, "No one is as generous as Karna." Arjun was surprised to hear this. He said, "O Shrikrushna, my brother, Dharmaraj Yudhishthir too is very generous." However, Shrikrushna argued that Karna was more generous as compared to Yudhishthir. As usual, Shrikrushna was ready to prove his point. He said, “Alright, let us settle this issue tomorrow, by going to both, Dharmaraj and Karna.”

         It was a rainy season then. Shrikrushna and Arjun went to Dharmaraj Yudhishthir the next morning. Welcoming them, he asked the reason for their coming. Shrikrushna said, “Some important construction work has to be undertaken in the capital immediately and for that some wooden logs are required.” Dharmaraj called his servants and ordered them to bring wood of best quality for construction. However, the servants did not return with the wood for a long time. Finally, one servant came back and stood before them looking to the ground. Dharmaraj asked, “What happened? Did you not get the wood?” Since it was monsoon, the logs had become wet due to the rains; hence the servants could not bring them. Dharmaraj was helpless in providing the required wood. He expressed his helplessness to Shrikrushna and Arjun. Hearing this, Shrikrushna and Arjun went away.

         Shrikrushna then took Arjun to Karna. When they arrived at Karna’s residence, Karna welcomed them with great respect and inquired about their wellbeing. Arjun told him about their urgent need of wood. Karna said, “O, why are you so worried for such a simple thing?” saying so, he asked his servants to fetch some wood. The servants returned after a while and reported to him about the wood being wet due to rain. Hearing this, Karna went inside. Since he did not return for a long time, Arjun and Shrikrushna went inside Karna's room. There, they saw that Karna was cutting the legs of his wooden bed. They saw many pieces of furniture were set aside. Now they realised the reason for the delay in Karna’s returning to them. Arjun asked Karna, "O, Karna, why did you cut off your precious artistic sandalwood furniture?" Karna replied, "These things can be made again, but there is no other grief than sending away someone empty handed despite his request to fulfil his desire."

         Later, the same Karna gave away his golden armour and earrings, which he had received as a blessing at birth. This example of total sacrifice is recorded in history.

         Friends, you just read about the generosity of Karna. Karna gave away his armour and earrings, which he had received as a blessing at birth. However, we are never willing to give even the smallest of our possessions to others. From this, we must learn that, we too should be ready to sacrifice our things for the sake of others.

Source: http://balsanskar.com/english/lekh/345.html#sthash.eQXjh519.dpuf

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A TRUE DISCIPLE ( Sage Veddharma & Disciple Deepak )

                          A True Disciple

Guru & Disciple

Guru imparting knowledge to Disciples

Guru & Disciples

        Sage Veddharma had an ashram on the banks of river Godavari. He lived there with many of His disciples. Among them was a disciple named Deepak, who was his favourite. Deepak had utmost faith in his Guru.

        The Sage once thought of testing the devotion of his disciples. He called all his disciples and told them, "In my previous birth, I committed a great sin. I have to bear the consequences of it. By doing spiritual practice in this birth, I have depleted some of it. But the remaining part of it has to be borne by me soon. It will affect my body in the form of a disease. I intend to stay in Kashi (a place in north India) during this period. Is anyone among you ready to come with me and serve my diseased body?" Hearing this, all the disciples remained silent except Deepak, who immediately replied, "Gurudev, I am ready to come to Kashi and serve you." The Guru replied, "Think twice before you commit to this. I will be in the diseased state, being blind and lame, for almost 2 years. Till then you will have to serve me." Deepak thought for a moment and said, "Gurudev, can I take your disease and stay in Kashi instead of you?" Hearing Deepak's words, the Sage was pleased and said, "No, you cannot, since each one has to bear the consequences of ones own deeds."

        After a few days both of them left for Kashi. Within few days of reaching Kashi, the Sage's body started decaying. There were boils all over his body, his eyesight became weak, his movement was restricted. Deepak served his Guru truthfully and wholeheartedly. He helped his Guru in all his mundane activities. Sometimes Sage Veddharma would get angry with Deepak for no particular reason, but still Deepak remained calm and continued to serve the sage without any complaint.

        Seeing Deepak's true Gurubhakti (devotion towards his Guru), Lord Shiva was pleased with and appeared before him. He said, "Ask for a boon and I shall fulfill your desire." Deepak replied, "I will ask my Guru about it." Deepak asked his Guru whether he should ask Lord Shiva to cure him of the disease. Sage Veddharma replied in the negative. So Deepak told Lord Shiva accordingly.

        After a few days, Lord Vishnu appeared before him, praised him for his Gurubhakti and offered to grant him a boon. He replied, "Oh Lord! If you wish to grant me a boon, please grant me that my Gurubhakti increases." Lord Vishnu said, "You saw God in your Guru and served Him. You have proved that God and Guru are one and the same. You have thus increased the importance of both. I shower you with my blessings!" Thus, Deepak continued to serve his Guru. Sage Veddharma was very pleased with Deepak that he had passed the test. He blessed him and said, "You are my one true disciple. May you live long and your fame spread far and wide."

Source : http://balsanskar.com/english/lekh/48.html#sthash.tYdHPD1k.dpuf

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Ashtavinayaka

Shri Chintamani, Theur Theur was also known as Kadambanagar. At Theur in the Haveli Taluka of Pune district in Maharashtra is the temple dedicated to Chintamani Vinayak.

Shri Siddhivinayak, Siddhatek Siddhatek is a remote little village along the river Bhima in the Ahmednagar district and Karjat tehsil in Maharashtra. The Siddhivinayak at Siddhatek is considered an especially powerful deity.

Shri Vigneshwar, Ozar The temple of Lord Vighneshwar is Purvabhimukh, facing the east. It is protected by a stone border from all sides.

Shri Girijatmaj, Lenyadri Lenyadri is to the North of Pune, along the Kukdi River. The Ganesh Puran calls this place as Jirnapur or Lekhan Parbat. Girijatmaj Vinayak refers to the Ganesh as the son of Parvati.

Shri Varad Vinayak, Mahad The Varad Vinayak temple is Purvabhimukh that is facing east. The temple is surrounded on all four sides by statues of elephants, two on each side.

Shri Mahaganapati, Ranjangaon The temple of Maha Ganapati is very close to the centre of the town Ranjangaon. The temple was erected during the rule of the Peshwas. The temple was built by Sardar Kine.

Shri Ballaleshwar, Pali The Ballaleshwar Vinayak is situated in district Raigad, Taluka Sudhagad in the Village Pali. Pali is about 30 kms from Karjat.

Shri Moreshwar, Morgaon The Mayureshwar or Moreshwar temple is along the Karha river in the Morgaon village.Read the story of demon king Sindhu.

- See more at: http://balsanskar.com/english/lekh/cid_47.html#sthash.qpKb8oRW.dpuf

Yuddhishtara and the Crane: Essence of Dharma in the Mahabharata


In the great story of the Mahabharata war, the five Pandava brothers, during their exile in the forest, went through many adventures, some of which are highly symbolic and instructive. One such incident occurred towards the end of their stay in the forests. It so happened that the Pandavas, tired by their constant wanderings, sat down on the ground and one of them went in search of water. When he did not return even after a long interval, another of the brothers went after him. He too did not return. The others followed one by one till finally only Yuddhishtara, the eldest of the five remained. Worried, he also went their way till he came to a lake. There he saw his brothers lying lifeless on the ground. As he lamented his loss, he heard a voice from the sky: "O Yuddhishtara, I warned your brothers not to drink water from this lake which belongs to me, but they did not respect my words. Hence, I have sent them all to the other world. If you too try to take water without first answering the questions I ask, you will have the same fate."

Yuddhishtara looked up and saw a crane perched atop a tree; he then replied: "I do not want to touch what belongs to you. Grieved as I am by my brothers’ fate, I will try my best to satisfy you with my answers." The divine bird then started to ask its questions:

Question: Who makes the sun rise? Who travels on all sides of the sun? What makes the sun set? Where is the sun established?

Yuddhishtara’s Answer: It is the Vedas which make the sun rise. It is the gods who travel with the sun. The sun sets because of Dharma, and it is established in truth.

Nilakantha, the most ancient and authoritative commentator on the Mahabharata has clarified the meaning of this verse. According to him, it is through the Vedas that we realize that there is a soul beyond our physical body. This is the ‘arising’ of knowledge. The gods who travel with the sun are the various qualities like control of senses, mind etc. which we have to cultivate on the path of knowledge. The setting of the sun symbolizes the end of physical knowledge, achieved by the practice of our Dharma. Finally we are situated in the True knowledge of the One Supreme Reality.

The bird asked the next Question: How does a man become the knower of the Word? How does he become great? How does he become another person? And how does he become wise?

Answer: A man becomes a knower of the Word by learning the Vedas from an accomplished teacher. He becomes great through austerity (tapas). A man becomes another when his mind firmly decides to remain fixed in God. He gains this wisdom only by serving his Guru and other elders.

Question: What is the true mark of godliness in a Brahmin? What is their positive quality? What constitutes a negative quality in a Brahmin?

Yuddhishtara’s Answer: The mark of godliness in a Brahmin is the study of Vedas. Their especial quality is austerity (tapas). The trait which is especially harmful for a Brahmin is gossip and criticism.

Q: What is godliness in a warrior (Kshatriya)? What constitutes virtue in them? Which is the negative trait especially harmful to them?

A: The art of warfare is the godliness of Kshatriyas. Their virtue is performance of Vedic sacrifices and the trait most harmful to them is to abandon those who have taken refuge under them.

Q: What is the best for those who are rich and reputable?

A: They should utilize a portion of their wealth for the service of cows (because they give us the necessary materials like milk, ghee etc. for the performance of Vedic sacrifices).

Q: Who is the person, who, though intelligent and respected by the world, is like a dead person even though he breathes?

A: The man who does not serve the gods, guests, family members dependent upon him, ancestors and his own self (atman), such a person, even though he breathes, is effectively lifeless only.

Q: What is heavier than the earth? Who is higher than the sky? What travels even faster than the wind? What outnumbers even the number of twigs of grass in this world?

A: The mother’s glory excels the earth’s weight. The father surpasses the sky. The mind travels faster than even the wind and one’s worries are more in number than all the twigs of grass in this world.

Q: Who is the friend of a traveller away from home? Who is one’s friend at home? Who is the friend of an ill person? Who is the friend of a dying man?

A: A traveller’s companion is his co-traveller, travelling for the same purpose as him. At home, wife is the man’s best friend. An ill person’s best friend is the doctor. The best friend of a dying man is Dana (charity).

Q: Who is to be treated like a guest (Atithi) by everyone? Which is the eternal Dharma? What is Amrita? What is this whole world?

A: Agni (fire) is Atithi for everybody. Cow’s milk is amrita. The daily acts (Nitya Karma) as propounded by the Vedas constitute the eternal Dharma and this whole world is nothing but Vayu (wind).

Fire here is expounded as an Atithi for everyone since offerings have to be offered to Agni, much as we have to make offerings to a guest who comes to our house. A cow’s milk is like nectar not only because of its nutritional qualities, but also because it offers us the raw material from which we can make items necessary for performing Vedic sacrifices, like curd, ghee etc. The performance of these sacrifices, without desire for their fruits (Nishkama Karma) leads ultimately to Jnana, which makes one immortal (i.e. one is never born and never dies). Describing the whole world as Vayu has a slightly abstract explanation. It signifies that both our outside and inside is common – both have Vayu. This is just the first step, leading ultimately to the realization of the complete unity which Vedanta brings to our experience.

Q: What is the main place where Dharma resides? Where does fame reside? How is heaven achieved? How can one achieve happiness?

A: The main place of Dharma is efficiency (Dakshta) of Karma. Fame resides in charity, heaven is achieved by speaking truth and happiness is gained by maintaining a high standard of moral behaviour (Shila).

Q: Who is a man’s Atman? Who is his friend given by the gods? What is his life support and what is his ultimate refuge?

A: A man’s Atman is his son. His wife is the friend given to him by the gods. The clouds are his life’s support and Dana (charity) is his ultimate refuge.

Q: What is the ultimate wealth? What is the ultimate gain? Which is the highest Sukha (happiness)?

A: Knowledge of the scriptures is the ultimate wealth. The highest gain is that of health. Contentment is the highest happiness.

Q: Which is the highest Dharma? Which is the Dharma which definitely leads to fruits? By keeping what under control does man never face grief? With whom does one’s friendship last forever?

A: Compassion (Daya) is the highest Dharma. The Dharma prescribed in the Vedas is the one which definitely bears fruits. We never face grief by keeping our mind under control. The friendship with Sadhus (godly persons) is never destroyed.

Q: By giving up what does a man become dear to all? By giving up what does a man become wealthy? By giving up what does a man not have to feel sorry? By renouncing what does a man gain happiness?

A: A man becomes dear to all when he gives up pride. He becomes wealthy by giving up desire. He does not feel sorry if he gives up anger (Krodha). A man becomes happy by giving up greed.

Q: Why do we give to Brahmins? Why do we give to dancers and performers? Why do we give to servants and why do we give to the government (king)?

A: Brahmins are given because it is Dharma. Dancers etc. are given for (our) fame, servants to sustain them and to the king we give out of fear (in the form of taxes).

Q: Why does a man give up his friends? Why is he not able to go to Swarga (heaven)?

A: A man gives up his friends because of greed. He is unable to reach heaven because of his attachment (to this world).

Q: Which man, even though alive, is equivalent to being dead? How does a country die? What is the death of a Shraddha (ceremony for ancestors)? What is death of a Vedic sacrifice?

A: A poor man is as good as dead (meaning poverty is like death itself). A kingdom dies without a government. A Shraddha ceremony is as good as dead without a Brahmin who knows the Vedas; and a sacrifice is dead without Dakshina.

Q: Which is the direction? What is food? What is poison? What is the correct time for the Shraddha ceremony?

A: Direction is that which is shown by saints. Food is but Mother Earth. Asking others for something is poison. The correct time of Shraddha is that when a suitable Brahmin is available.

Q: What constitutes Tapas? What is shame?

A: Staying steadfast in one’s own Dharma (even in adverse circumstances) is Tapas. Shame is restraining from unworthy acts.

Q: What is knowledge? What is peace? What constitutes true compassion? What is simplicity?

A: True knowledge is that which makes us experience oneness with the divine. Peace is the silence of the flow of memory. Wishing happiness for everyone is true compassion. Simplicity is equanimity of the mind.

Q: Who is the enemy difficult to conquer? Which is an endless enemy? Who is a Sadhu? Who is not a Sadhu?

A: Anger is the enemy difficult to conquer. Greed is the endless foe. A Sadhu is one who wishes the well-being of all. The ruthless and merciless person is the opposite of Sadhu.

Q: What is steadfastness? What is courage? Which is the ultimate bath? What is the ultimate charity?

A: Staying resolute in one’s own Dharma is true steadfastness. Control of senses is the true act of courage. Washing the mind clean of all impurities is the ultimate bath. Protecting all beings is true charity.

Q: Dharma, Artha and Kama are opposed to each other. How can they co-exist?

A: When one’s wife and Dharma are in agreement then the three can co-exist effortlessly.

Q: Who goes to everlasting hell?

A: He who first calls a Brahmin to his house and then sends him back empty handed saying he has nothing to give; He who imputes falsehood to the Vedas, Dharmasastra, Brahmins, gods and the Shraddha ceremony; He who though has enough wealth doesn’t donate nor enjoy it himself saying he doesn’t have money – all these go to everlasting hell.

Q: Who is happy?

A: The person, who even though may be eating food only two or three times a week, but does not have debt on his head, or lives in his native land - he is the one who is happy.

Q: What is the greatest wonder in this world?

A: Countless beings die every day. Yet those who remain think of themselves as immortal. This is the biggest wonder in the world.

Q: Which is the way?

A: Human reasoning is limited and inconstant. The scriptures speak in different voices. The essence of Dharma is too difficult to understand. Hence, the true and only way is the one which has been tread by noble souls in the past.

Q: What is the news?

A: This is the constant news: The ignorant world is the pan in which Time the cook is constantly tossing all beings, using the months and seasons as ladle, the sun as fire and the day and night as fuel.

Needless to say, the divine bird was extremely satisfied by the answers of Yuddhishtara. He asked Yuddhishtara to select any one of his four brothers, whose life he wanted restored.

Yuddhishtara then selected his half-brother Nakula to be revived.

The perplexed bird asked Yuddhishtara why he did not ask for any of his real brothers to be revived. To this Yuddhishtara, the very embodiment of Dharma, replied: "My father had two wives. My wish is that both of them should have a son remaining. For me there is no difference between my two mothers. I have same feelings for both of them. That is why I chose Nakula."
Hearing these words the bird cried out in joy: "O Yuddhishtara, you have the greatest compassion and equanimity. You have pleased me no end with your conduct. Hence I grant that may all your brothers be revived."

Conclusion: Thus did end this story on a happy note, but not before giving us an inspiring look into the inner nuances of the working of Dharma. Yuddhishtara is a fine example to bring through the message, since not only did he understand the essence of Dharma, but also practiced it.

The story of Yaksha and Yuddhishtara occurs in the Mahabharata (Vana Parva, Chapters 312-314).The details are based on the ancient commentary on the Mahabharata by Pandit Nilakantha.

This article by Nitin Kumar.
Source :

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Story of Maricha in the Ramayana – Demon Maricha

Story of Maricha in the Ramayana – Demon Maricha

The Golden Deer Entices Sita

Maricha was the son of Demon Sunanda and Tadaka in the Ramayana. He was also the uncle of Ravana. Story of Maricha can be found in the Bala Kanda and Aranya Kanda of Ramayana. It is believed that in his previous birth, Maricha was a gatekeeper in the Vaikunta and was cursed to be born as a Rakshasa. He was promised that he will get relief from curse when he will be killed by Sri Rama in the Treta Yuga.

Maricha used to disturb the Saints in the Dandaka Forest. He faced the power of the arrows of Sri Ram and Lakshman when he attempted to disrupt the yajna of Vishwamitra which was protected by the two brothers.

After this incident, there was change in Maricha’s character, he grew matted hair and spend his life in an ashram.

After the death of Demon Khara, Ravana arrives at the Ashram of Maricha. In the discussion that follows, Maricha convinces Ravana not to attack Rama.

The second meeting between Maricha and Ravana takes place after Surpanakha complains about Sri Ram and Lakshman. He also hears about the beautiful Mata Sita. But this time Maricha is not able to convince Ravana.

Ravana makes Maricha take the form of a golden deer. Maricha takes the form saying to Ravana he knows that he will never escape from the arrow of Rama.

Mata Sita who saw the golden deer wanted it. Rama gave it a chase. After sometime Rama felt something suspicious and shot at the deer. It fell down shouting ‘Ha Lakshmana’ in the voice of Rama. The cry was to mislead Lakshman and Mata Sita.

Marachia died at hands of Rama and regained his position of the guard in Vaikunta.

Source : http://www.hindu-blog.com/2013/08/story-of-maricha-in-ramayana-demon.html

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ABOUT LAKSHMI AND HER VARIOUS AVATARS

About Lakshmi and her various Avatars

Lakshmi has been born in various names. More than avatars or incarnations these are mere instances when Lakshmi took various forms in order to fulfill the wishes of the one''s who worshipped her.

   
Although much is not said about the various incarnations of Lakshmi, the mythology brings into light the various legends where Lakshmi has been born in various names. More than avatars or incarnations these are mere instances when Lakshmi took various forms in order to fulfill the wishes of the one''s who worshipped her.

Vedavati

A long time ago there was a king by name Rathadhwaja. In his family, worship of Lakshmi had a long tradition. The king gave up the worship of Lakshmi due to indifference. Consequently he lost the grace of Lakshmi. The enemies invaded with an army. Rathadhwaja was defeated in war and lost the kingdom.

Rathashwaja had two sons Kushadhwaja and Dharmadhwaja. They felt sorry for their father''s mistake. They observed rigorous penance, meditating for Lakshmi. When she appeared they prayed, "Bless us so that we get back our kingdom. Grant us a favor by being born as our daughter." Lakshmi granted the boons. They bravely fought, won the kingdom again and were living happily.

Malavati was the name of Kushadhwaja''s wife. Goddess Lakshmi, in fulfillment of the boon granted by her, entered the womb of Malavati in subtle form and was born as a daughter. It is said that even at the time of birth she was reciting Vedic verses clearly. Therefore, the parents named her ''Vedavati''. Kushadhwaja looked after her and brought her up with great affection. Vedavati grew up to be a beautiful, virtuous girl. She came of age. Both gods and demons came forward to wed her. She did not accept anybody. She went away to Pushkara, a place of pilgrimage and undertook a rigorous penance praying for Vishnu''s becoming her husband. The penance dragged on for a long time. One day a voice from heaven was heard: "Vedavati, you have to be born again. In your next birth, Vishnu will also be born and he will become your husband." Even then, Vedavati continued her penance without losing heart.

Ravana was in aerial chariot, PUSPAK, and in course of travel came there. Thinking that a guest had come to the hermitage, Vedavati was hospitable to him. Then Ravana asked her about her life. Vedavati said: "I am the daughter of king Kushadhwaja. My name is Vedavati. I have undertaken a penance with a view to getting Sriman Narayana himself to become my husband." On hearing this Ravana laughed derisively and said: "You, beautiful woman, should you, a young woman, observe penance? You talk about Narayana! Who is he? Has he as much wealth as I have? Is he strong? I am Ravana, king of Lanka. Marry me and be happy." Replied Vadavati, "Ravana, don''t talk so. Narayana means the king of the universe, Vishnu. Should you abuse him? A big fool you are." Realizing that she was not amenable to persuasion, Ravana caught her head and dragged her by hair. Enraged Vedavati immediately sheared her hair with her hand. Due to the influence of penance her hand itself cut her hair like a sword. She turned to Ravana and said, "You scoundrel, are you compelling me? By your touch my body became tainted. Be looking on, now itself I will give up my body. I will take birth as the daughter of another righteous person and will myself be the cause for your death." Immediately she jumped into a burning fire in the hermitage and gave up her life. Ravana returned to Lanka grief stricken.
Sita

Vedavati was later born as a daughter of king Janaka. King Janaka named her Sita. At that time Dasharatha was ruling over Ayodhya. To his wife Kausalya, Vishnu was born and became famous as Sri Rama. He came with sage Vishwamitra to Janaka''s capital and broke the bow given by Shiva. Then King Janaka, having admired Sri Rama''s valor, gave Sita in marriage to Sri Rama. When sometime passed, Sri Rama, as desired by his father, had to go to Dandakaranya with Sita and Lakshmana. While living there, Ravana deceitfully took Sita to Lanka. Sri Rama went to Lanka with Sugreeva, Hanumanta and other monkey warriors and invaded Lanka. In the terrible war that followed, Sri Rama killed Ravana. Thereafter, Sita came to Ayodhya with Sri Rama and lived a happy life. This story is told in great detail in the Ramayana.

Tulasi

On the other side, Lakshmi was born to Dharmadhwaja''s wife Madhavi. Her parents named her Tulasi. The child was very beautiful. She grew up to be virtuous. Later she married Vishnu. Vishnu told her: "You leave this body and stay with me. Let your body become a river by name Gandaki. I will became a Saligrama stone and will reside in Gandaki River. Let your hair grow into a plant, become famous as Tulasi and be worshipped by people. I love a garland of Tulasi petals."

Tulasi''s body flowed after becoming river Gandaki. Narayana became a stone and was residing in it. Tulasi plant was born from the hair of Tulasi and became sacred.

Rukmini

There was a king by name Bhishmaka in the kingdom of Vidharbha. He had five sons by name Rukmi, Rukmaratha, Rukmabahu, Rukmakesha and Rukmamali. Sriman Narayana was born for killing Kansa and with a view to establishing righteousness. When he was thus born as Krishna, Lakshmi was born as Rukmini, daughter of Bhismaka. She was beautiful and virtuous. Father Bhishmaka was not only god-fearing but had also great respect for Sri Krishna. He thought of giving Rukmini in marriage to Sri Krishna.

But Bhishmaks''s first son Rukmi did not agree to it. He had joined a gang of wicked men formed by Shishupala and others. He brought pressure on his father to give sister Rukmini in marriage to Shishupala. As Rukmi hated Sri Krishna he did not agree to have the relationship. Bhishmaka was not bold enough to ignore his advice.

Rukmini''s marriage with Shishupala was fixed. But Rukmini, having heard of Sri Krishna''s good character and greatness, had mentally accepted him as her husband. She sent a messenger to Dwaraka with the message that she would marry Krishna; and if not possible, she would give her life. Sri Krishna had already heard of Rukmini''s character, virtue and beauty. He wished to marry her. Therefore, he immediately boarded a chariot and came to Bhishmaka''s town. Balarama came to know that Sri Krishna went alone. Instantly he followed with a large army to help his brother.

In the capital of Vidarbha all arrangements were being made for Rukmini''s marriage. Shishupala had arrived with his friends Jarasandha, Salva, Paundraka and others. Balarama and Krishna also joined. Balarama had stationed his army far away outside the city.

After sometime the marriage rituals commenced. Rukmini went with her entourage to the temple to worship Gowri. She worshipped Gowri and prayed: "Let only Sri Krishna become my husband." She was not aware of Sri Krishna''s having come to the town. She was worried about what would happen. Rukmini completed worship of Gowri and came out of the temple. Instantly Sri Krishna brought his chariot, made her mount it and drove away towards Dwaraka. Jarasandha and others, when they came to know of this incident became angry and went after Sri Krishna. A terrible war was fought. Krishna and Balarama defeated all and set out to Dwaraka.

Thereafter the marriage of Sri Krishna and Rukmini was celebrated grandly at Dwaraka. Rukmini was the senior queen. Pradyumna is Rukmini''s son.

Padmavati 

Once the great sage Bhrigu went to heaven. Vishnu was sleeping on Adisesha. The sage became angry and kicked at Vishnu''s chest. Then Vishnu got up and said: "O sage, welcome to you. Excuse me. I am sure your foot must be hurting because it touched my hard chest." He massaged his leg and comforted him. Sage Bhrigu was pleased. Saying, "You have comforted me without losing your temper even when kicked. You possess good nature, you are the best," he left.

However, Narayana''s wife Lakshmi was dissatisfied. "The sage kicked at the chest in which I reside. It means dishonoring me. Without punishing him my husband comforts him. I cannot reside in this chest any more," she decided, and in disgust went to Kolhapur and settled there. Even to this day the temple of Mahalakshmi at Kolhapur is famous.

As Lakshmi left, Vishnu became sad. He went from Vaikuntha to Tirupati and settled in Venkatadri under the name of Venkatesha.

Akasharaja, the king of Chola country, had no children. His teacher told him to perform a religious function to get children. The king agreed to it and he himself began ploughing the earth to level the ground to set up the ritual stage. When the plough split the ground, a lotus with many petals came into view. A female child was lying in it. A voice was heard from heaven saying, "O King, this girl is very fortunate. Bring her up considering her as your daughter." With pleasure the king gave the child to his queen Dharanidevi. The child was named ''Padmavati''. She was brought up with great affection. She grew up into a woman bright as the moon in the first phase of the month.

One day when Padmavati was enjoying herself in the garden with her friends, sage Narada came there. Looking at Padmavati he said, "O Mother, I know who you are. You are truly Lakshmi. As you could not bear the separation from Vishnu, you have been born thus and come here. He, in the form of Venkatesha, is suffering due to the separation from you and living in Tirupati. Within a few days you two will be married," and went away. Venkatesha attracted Padmavati, one day when she was amusing herself in the garden Venkatesha came there and saw her. They became acquainted and love grew between them. When Akasharaja came to know of this, he gladly agreed to their marriage. As desired by Venkatesha, Brahma and other gods attended the wedding. The marriage was celebrated magnificently. Because ''Sri'' (Lakshmi) permanently settled down in Tirupati on Venkatesha''s chest, he got the name ''Srinivasa'' (the one in whom sri resides).

Source : http://www.biharlokmanch.org/indian_festivals_culture.php?aid=16

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The Legend of Lord Karttikeya or Murugan

The Legend of Lord Karttikeya or Murugan by Sanchita Chowdhury Lord Skanda-Murugan Lord Karttikeya is a well known figure in Hindu mythology. He addressed by different names such as Murugan, Subramaniam, Sanmukha, Skanda and Guha. He is most popular as Lord Muruganin the southern states of India. A number of temples dedicated to the deity can be spotted all over the South India. The story of the birth of Lord Karttikeya or Murugan has different versions. In some texts it is said that He is the son of 'Agni' or the God of Fire. However according to the Skanda Purana, Karttikeya is said to be the elder son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is also believed that Karttikeya was not born from the womb of Parvati. The Goddess was cursed by Rati, the consort of Kama (God of Love) that she would never be able to bear children. Birth Story of Lord Karttikeya Ancient Khymer Skanda statue According to the legends, there was a demon named Tarakasura who asked for the boon that he should only be killed by Lord Shiva's son. He knew very well that Lord Shiva was an ascetic and He would not marry or have children. Hence, Tarakasura would be invincible. However after much ado, Lord Shiva finally married Goddess Parvati. Since Parvati couldn't conceive due to the curse, Lord Shiva took her to a cave and asked Her to meditate. As they both meditated, a ball of fire emerged out of their cosmic energies. In the mean time, the other Gods being insecure from Tarakasura, sent Agni or the God of fire to get hold of the ball of fire. But even Agni couldn't bear the heat of the energy of Shiva and Parvati. So, He handed over the ball to Goddess Ganga. When even Ganga couldn't bear the heat, She deposited the fire ball into a lake in a forest of reeds. Then Goddess Parvati took the form of this water body as She alone could bear the energy of Shiva and Shakti. Finally the fire ball took the form of a baby with six faces. Hence, Karttikeya is also known as Sanmukha or the 'God with Six Faces'. He was first spotted and taken care of by six water nymphs who represented the Pleiades or the Krittikas. So, the divine child was known as Karttikeya or the son of the Krittikas. Later Karttikeya kills Tarakasura and becomes the commander-in-chief of the Gods. Lord Karttikeya is depicted as a dark, young man with a spear in His hand. His mount is a peacock and He symbolizes power and strength. Through the blessings of Lord Karttikeya, one can achieve great strength and get rid of all his woes. His peacock represents Him as the destroyer of all bad habits and a conqueror of sensual desires. Karttikeya represents perfection and the need for every human to move towards being perfect. Courtesy: BoldSky.com %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%