वातापि
Vatapi, also known as Vatapi Raja, was a powerful Daitya and the younger brother of Ilvala, the ruler of the city of Manimati. He was a shape-shifter, known for his cunning and ability to transform into various forms, including a ram. According to Hindu mythology, Vatapi and his brother Ilvala were notorious for their hatred towards Brahmanas, and were feared throughout the land for their cruel and deceitful ways.
The brothers’ modus operandi was to invite unsuspecting Brahmanas to their palace, where they would serve them a meal of roasted ram meat. Unbeknownst to the guests, Vatapi would transform into a ram and be cooked and eaten by the Brahmana. Once the Brahmana had finished eating, Ilvala would utter a magical incantation, saying “O Vatapi, come out!” and Vatapi would emerge from the Brahmana’s belly, alive and whole, and kill the Brahmana in the process.
However, their plans were foiled when the wise and powerful sage Agastya visited the city of Manimati. The brothers tried to use their trick on Agastya, but the sage was not fooled. Before Ilvala could utter the magical incantation, Agastya rubbed his stomach and said, “May Vatapi be digested!” This simple yet powerful incantation had the effect of causing Vatapi to be digested by Agastya’s stomach, and the Daitya was slain.
Chastened by their defeat, Ilvala gave many gifts to Agastya and made peace with the sage. This story is a testament to the power of wisdom and the importance of protecting oneself from the forces of evil.
Related entries:
- Ilvala: Ilvala was the ruler of the city of Manimati and the brother of Vatapi. He was a Daitya and was known for his cruelty and deceit.
- Agastya: Agastya was a powerful sage who was known for his wisdom and bravery. He was the one who slew Vatapi and foiled the plans of Ilvala.
- Brahmanas: Brahmanas were a class of priests and scholars who were highly respected in Hindu society. They were often the targets of the Daityas’ cruelty and deceit.
- Daityas: Daityas were a class of demons who were known for their cruelty and hatred towards the gods and Brahmanas.
- Manimati: Manimati was the city ruled by Ilvala and was the site of many of the Daityas’ cruel deeds.
Some of the key characteristics of Vatapi include:
- Shape-shifting: Vatapi was a shape-shifter, able to transform into various forms, including a ram.
- Cunning: Vatapi was known for his cunning and ability to deceive his enemies.
- Cruelty: Vatapi was a cruel and ruthless Daitya who delighted in causing harm to Brahmanas.
- Power: Vatapi was a powerful Daitya who was feared throughout the land.
- Defeat: Vatapi was ultimately defeated by the wise and powerful sage Agastya.