This story is from [Devi:5.1-112]. Long ago, Vishnu, also known as Janardhana, waged a war that lasted for sixteen thousand years with the Asuras. At the end of this prolonged battle, exhausted and overcome with fatigue, Vishnu entered a deep slumber, standing upright, with his head supported by the tip of his peerless bow. His fatigue was so profound that he remained unaware of his surroundings, standing as though lifeless. The Devas (gods) and divine sages, upon witnessing this, became deeply concerned. Vishnu, the great protector of the world, was in a state of deep sleep, and without his vigilance, …
This story is from [Devi:1.10.1-1.14.1] and recounts a significant episode in the life of Vyasa, the great sage and author of the Mahabharata. The story intertwines themes of penance, divine intervention, and the mysterious ways in which destiny unfolds, all while highlighting Vyasa’s deep connection with the Devi (Goddess) and Mahadeva (Lord Shiva). Vyasa’s Penance and the Blessing of Mahadeva According to the advice of Narada, the celestial sage, Vyasa retired to Mt. Meru to perform a penance directed towards the great Devi, the supreme goddess in Hindu mythology. Mt. Meru, the axis mundi in Hindu cosmology, is considered the …
This episode is from [Devi:5.2.1-5.18-70], which tells the detailed story of how the Goddess Durga slew the buffalo-demon Mahishasura. Long ago, an Asura named Rambha was the king of the Asuras. While walking through the streets, he saw a beautiful she-buffalo and was immediately smitten with desire for her. The union of Rambha and the buffalo produced a son named Mahishasura. Upon Rambha’s death, Mahishasura became the king of the Asuras. Mahishasura, like many Asuras before him, desired to conquer the Devas (gods), their eternal rivals. Knowing the strength of the Devas, Mahishasura undertook a severe penance directed toward Lord …
There was once a king named Dhruvasanti, the son of Pushpa, who ruled the kingdom of Kosala. Dhruvasanti was a descendant of the Surya (Solar) dynasty, an ancient and prestigious lineage tracing its roots to the Sun God. Known for his just and able rule, Dhruvasanti governed from his capital city, Ayodhya, the famed seat of many legendary rulers, including Lord Rama. Dhruvasanti had two wives, Manorama and Leelavathi. Manorama was his first wife, and Leelavathi was his second. Manorama bore him a son named Sudarsana, and the very next month, Leelavathi gave birth to another son, Shatrujit. Both princes, …
The term Bhagavata means “of the divinity” or “related to God,” and it is used in two principal texts of Indian mythology: Vishnu Bhagavata and Devi Bhagavata. Both are deeply revered, and each focuses on different divine entities—Vishnu Bhagavata celebrates the incarnations and exploits of Lord Vishnu, while Devi Bhagavata extols the virtues of Bagavati, also known as Para Shakti, the ultimate Goddess, the divine force that pervades the universe. Vishnu Bhagavata The Vishnu Bhagavata Purana is a grand narrative that tells the stories of Lord Vishnu’s many incarnations, such as Rama, Krishna, and Narasimha, and their roles in maintaining …
The story of Arjuna’s penance to Lord Shiva and his acquisition of the mighty weapon Pashupata (Brahmasiras) is one of the most celebrated episodes in the Mahabharata. It highlights themes of devotion, penance, divine intervention, and the ultimate purpose of obtaining supernatural powers for righteous warfare. The episode weaves together elements from Hindu mythology, such as the importance of self-control, dharma, and the unique connection between mortals and the gods. Bhima’s Hidden Respect for Karna Though Bhima outwardly affected to belittle Karna and despise him for his allegiance to Duryodhana, deep down, Bhima knew that Karna was an exceptional warrior. …
The story of Diti, Aditi, and Sage Kashyapa is deeply woven into the intricate tapestry of Hindu mythology, reflecting the eternal struggle between the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons), themes of rivalry, divine intervention, and the consequences of one’s actions. It also highlights the interplay between fate, dharma, and the cyclical nature of power shifts in the universe. The Cosmic Rivalry: Devas and Asuras Sage Kashyapa, one of the Saptarishis and the father of many gods, demons, and celestial beings, was married to Diti and Aditi, the daughters of Daksha Prajapati. Aditi, as the mother of the Devas, gave birth …
The story of Brihaspati, Indra, and Vritra reflects profound themes in Hindu mythology, including the consequences of arrogance, the balance of power between the Devas and Asuras, and the intricate workings of karma and dharma. This story connects to other mythological narratives, illustrating the cyclical nature of conflicts between good and evil, where even gods are not exempt from the repercussions of their actions. Indra’s Arrogance and Brihaspati’s Departure Brihaspati, the Guru of the Devas, was highly revered by all for his wisdom and spiritual knowledge. He symbolized the guiding force of divine intellect, much like Shukra for the Asuras. …
The story of the Pandavas’ escape from the plot of Duryodhana and his henchman Purochana showcases recurring themes in Hindu mythology such as divine intervention, adherence to dharma, the strength of familial bonds, and the guidance of elders. The tale also exemplifies the cunning and resourcefulness often displayed by virtuous characters in the face of treachery. The Completion of the Kuru Princes’ Education The festival showcasing the talents of the Kuru princes marked the culmination of their training under Guru Dronacharya. Among the students, Arjuna stood out as the most gifted and disciplined. Recognizing this, Drona taught Arjuna the use …
The story of King Vichitraveerya’s demise and the subsequent events highlight themes of duty, lineage, divine intervention, and justice—common threads woven throughout Hindu mythology, particularly in the epic Mahabharata. It also underscores the complexities of upholding dharma (righteousness) when faced with difficult circumstances. The Death of King Vichitraveerya King Vichitraveerya lived a contented life with his two queens, Ambika and Ambalika. However, their happiness was short-lived as the king succumbed to an illness and passed away without leaving behind an heir to the throne. In the absence of a king, the kingdom was vulnerable to internal instability and external threats, …