Professional Documents
Culture Documents
PuranicEncyclopedia PDF
PuranicEncyclopedia PDF
VETTAM MANI
MOTILAL BANARSIDASS
Delhi Patna Varanasi
MOTILAL BANARSIDASS
Indological Publishers & Booksellers
Head Office : BUNGALOW ROAD, JAWAHAR NAOAR, DELHl-7
Branches :1. CHOWK, VARANASI-1 (u.P. )
Distributed by:
South Asia Books
Box 502
; Columbia,
MO 65201
Printed in India
BY SHANTILAL JAIN, AT SHRI JAINENDRA PRESS, BUNGALOW ROAD, JAWAHAR
NAGAR, DELHI-7 AND PUBLISHED BY SUNDARLAL JAIN, FOR MOTILAL
BANARSIDASS, BUNGALOW ROAD, JAWAHAR NAGAR, DELHI-7
FOREWORD
I feel flattered it to be great privilege to have been asked by Shri Vettam Mani to
and consider
contribute a foreword to Puranic Encyclopaedia, a really magnificent literary production,
his
massive in size and rich and invaluable in contents. This is the first attempt in Malayalam and for
the matter of that in any Indian or foreign language, so far as I know, to produce a comprehensive
and well-nigh exhaustive book of study and reference with regard to episodes, incidents, characters
etc. occurring in the many Puranas and such other works in Sanskrit. In the field of mythology, with
regard to variety and contents as also sheer bulk, Greece stands first. Egypt comes only next. But
Indian mythology the epics and the puranas far exceeds and excels both Greek and Egyptian mytho-
logies put together in merit and size. Even the preparation of a complete list of characters mentioned
in our epics, puranas etc. will be a stupendous and well-nigh impossible task calling for the combined
efforts of a number of scholars. But, fortunately for us, each and every such name, one need not
necessarily know or be acquainted with. At the same time there are great names which compel atten-
tion and should not escape a proper study. And, such names are legion, and Shri Mani has not
omitted mention of even one such name in his great work. I looked up the encyclopaedia for a few
such random names, and was really surprised to find detailed treatment of the same in the book. More-
over, with reference to really important names, incidents and episodes connected with them and the
whole genealogy are given. Everything is fully documented and quite authoritative. And, deep,
extensive and exhaustive study, patient and untiring research and above all absolute dedication to the
cause are so very patent on every page of the book. Literally and in effect Shri Mani's is a unique
contribution, the first and foremost book, in the magnificent spheres of religion, culture, scholar-
ship and history all put together. As the pioneer in the field he can justly feel happy and proud about
his rare achievement, and he deserves in ample measure the unstinted praise and appreciation of all
lovers of learning and culture.
Shri Mani has already earned well-deserved reputation as a teacher, especially in Malayalam,
and also as a diligent student of literature and author of talent. He evidently possesses a flair for
research. All such distinguished talents and attainments of his have been fully and quite successfully
commissioned in the preparation of this marvellous encyclopaedia. He has put every lover of learning
and knowledge everywhere, under an eternal debt of gratitude by the publication of this noble work.
P.R. MENON
Retired Judge, Chief Court, Cochin and
Ex-President Keral Sahitya Academy.
PREFACE
It a matter of profound pleasure and pride for me that the internationally famous publishers
is
The Puranas along with the Great Epics the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, have for
centuries, profoundly influenced Indian life and Culture. The well-known definition of a Purana
as a work having five characteristic features purdnam paiicalakfanam namely, primary creation, secon-
dary creation, the genealogies, the ages of Manu, and the dynastic account hardly does justice to the
full significance of these works. They are much more than that. While their genealogies and the
dynastic account form the bed-rock of the political history of ancient India, they throw a flood of light
on all aspects of Indian Culture its religion, social practices, art, literature and sciences. They serve
as the key to the
proper understanding of the various aspects of Hinduism its beliefs, its modes of
worship, its
mythology, its festivals, feasts, and fasts, its sacred shrines and places of pilgrimage, its philo-
sophy and ethics and its theogony. Truly it has been said that a Brahmin was not really wise if he did
not know the Puranas. The study of ancient Indian history, and culture particularly religion is
impossible without a proper knowledge of the Puranas. As a matter of fact, it is virtually impossible
to understand not only ancient Indian culture and life, but also the literature in modern Indian
languages, as it largely draws upon the ideas and ideologies as embodied in the contents of the Puranas
and the epics.
The literary writings in all Indian languages are indebted to the Epics and the Puranas in more than
one way their form, content, ideas and ideologies are all influenced to a greater or lesser extent by these
ancient works. Direct and indirect allusions to Puranic episodes, characters, events, are frequently
to be met with in the
literary writings of all Indian languages. Teachers engaged in imparting instruc-
tion in the literature in modern Indian languages must therefore be conversant with the contents of
the Puranas and Epics in order to be able to explain these allusions wherever they occur in the
writings in modern Indian languages. However, it is well nigh impossible for an average teacher to go
through the whole of this vast literature. Thus the need for a handy work of reference like the present
Encyclopaedia is
apparent.
The desire to compile a Purar ic Dictionary that should solve many of the day to day problems of
the Indian language teacher, took root in me, several years ago, but I could not arrogate to myself the
capacity to fulfill this urgent need. I waited for many years, for more competent and better equipped
scholars to come forward and produce a work of my dreams. But since no one appeared to quench
this thirst, I plunged
myself into this vast ocean of Sanskrit literature, and for thirteen years I dived
deep into it, studying not only the original texts but also modern works in English, Sanskrit, Malayalam
and Hindi. This took me five years, and I spent about twenty thousand rupees on books and travelling
for this project. I started the
compilation on 1st of January, 1955, and it took me seven years to start
preparing the Press copy of my work. The first volume of my 'Puranic Nighantu' was released in
February 1964 and the remaining four were published after an interval of six months in each case.
The second edition of all the five volumes was brought out in May 1967, still under the original title
'Puranic Nighantu'. However, in the third revised and enlarged edition in one volume published in
October, 1971, the name was changed to 'Puranic Encyclopaedia'.
In an endeavour like this imperfections and drawbacks are only inevitable, and I am fully cons-
cious of the same. But as a pioneer effort, and as a much needed aid to the teaching and study of
Malayalam language and literature, it will, I hope, be found useful. Scholars and general readers in
Malayalam have been generous in welcoming the encyclopaedia. That four editions of the work had
to be brought out within a period of seven
years from 1 967 to 1 974 speaks eloquently for the merit, and
utility of the work and I feel my labour and expense amply rewarded. I felt still more flattered when
the celebrated firm of M/s Motilal Banarsidass of Delhi, who have already laid the world of Indology
under a deep debt of obligation by their monumental publications in all fields of Indian Culture and his-
tory, mooted a proposal for publishing an English translation of the Malayalam original. I am deeply
indebted to them for bringing my work before a much wider circle of readers. The onerous task of
translating the work into English was entrusted to a committee of five scholars 1. :Mr. P. Rajaram
Menon, Professor of English, Basel mission College, Kottayam; 2. Mr. K. R. Atchutan Nayar, retired
Professor of English, C.M.S. College, Kottayam; 3. R. K. Kartha, ex-Chief Editor, Deshbandhu,
Kottayam; 4. P.I.John, Retired Headmaster, Kurichi ; and 5. Mr. P. N. Menon, Ollur.
I need hardly point out that these members of the editorial committee are highly qualified for
this work and I must gladly acknowledge the fact that they have more than amply justified the trust
placed in them.
Finally, I cannot adequately express my feelings of deep gratitude to Shri Puthezathu Rama
Menon, the doyen of Malayalam literature, for writing an excellent introduction to the original
Malayalam edition of the work. I am also beholden to many scholars and the reading public who
have been pleased to extend a most generous welcome to the Encyclopaedia.
Kottayam
22.2.1975 VETTAM MANI
Puranic Encyclopaedia
Pandavas, Abhimanyu married Uttara, daughter of
cw
A The first letter (Vowel) of all Indian languages. the King of Virata. War broke out between Kauravas
(si).
Nanartharatnamala this letter has the and Pandavas. On the first day itself Abhimanyu
According to the
entered into a duel with Brhatbala, King of Kosala.
following meanings: Brahma, Visnu, Siva, tortoise,
and bow- In the terrible conflict with Bhlsma, Abhimanyu broke
courtyard, battle, harem, jewellery, sea, Parvati
Bhisma's flagstaff. After that he assisted his father Arjuna
.
string.
to fight against Bhlsma. Verses 8-13 of Chapter 55 of
ABALA one of the fifteen devas who were the sons ot
is
22, Verse 11). Bhlsma Parva of the Mahabharata describe Abhi-
Paiicajanya. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
ABHAYA was one of the sons of Dhrtarastra. He was manyu's fight with Laksmana in the second day's battle.
Then he took his place in the Ardha Candra Vyuha
killed by Bhimasena. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67,
(semi-circular phalanx)
formed by Arjuna. He fought
Verse 104; Drona Parva, Chapter 127, Verse 62).
fiercely with the Gandharas. He attacked Salya
and kill-
ABHAYAM. King Idhmajihva divided his kingdom ed Jayatsena, King of Magadha, along with his elephant.
Plaksadvlpa into seven parts
and gave them to his
one of the parts. The other six We find Abhimanyu assisting Bhimasena in M.B. Bhlsma
severi sons. Abhayam is
63, 64, 69 and 94. After that
are: Yamasarii, Subhadram, Santam, Parva, Chapters
parts Sivarh,
Ksemarh and Amrtam. See "Idhmajihva". (Bhagavata, Abhimanyu defeated Laksmana in battle. Then he
defeated Vikarna, Citrasena and others also. Later he
5th Skandha, Chapter 20, Verse 2). It is seen (from created
took his position in the Srrigataka Vyuha by
M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 30, Verse 9) that the
known as Abhayam was conquered by Dhrstadyumna. He started fighting with Bhagadatta.
territory
Bhimasena. (See Foot-note)
He defeated Ambastha and Alambusa. Next he fought a
duel with Sudisna. After that he encountered Duryo-
ABHIBHU. He was a King, the son of the King ot Kasi
and a relative of the Pandavas. He was killed by the dhana, Brhatbala and others. M.B. Drona Parva,
of Abhi-
son of King Vasudana. He had a most
wonderful Chapter 10, Verses 47-52 are a description
horse. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 151, Verse 63; manyu's heroism by Dhrtarastra. He snatched Paurava's
Kama Parva, Chapter 6, Verses 23-24; Drona Parva, weapon and threw it on the ground. Next he fought
with Jayadratha and Salya. Then he was caught in the
Verses 26-27).
the heroic son of Arjuna the cen-
He was Cakra Vyuha (circular phalanx) of the enemies.
ABHIMANYU I.
There he inflicted great losses upon the enemy forces.
tral figure of the Mahabharata, by his
wife Subhadra.
He was descended from Visnu in this order: Salya was stunned and his brother was killed by
1) Genealogy.
Brahma-Atri-Candra-Budha-Pururavas Ayus Nahusa-
- -
Abhimanyu. M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 38, Verses 23
- Pravira - Namasyu- and 24 describe the flight of the Kauravas in fear. At
Yayati-Puru-Janamejaya- Pracinva - Raud- this stage, even Dronacarya praised Abhimanyu's
Vltabhaya-Sundu-Bahuvidha-Sarhyati-Rahovadi
- Bharata -Brhat- valour. Dussasana fainted during his fight with Abhi-
rasva-Matinara-Santurodha-Dusyanta
ksatra-Hasti- Ajamidha-Rksa-Sariivarana -Kuru-Jahnu- manyu. Kama was defeated. Vrsasena, SatyaSravas
- - and Salya's son, Rugmaratha were slain. Duryodhana
Siiratha - Viduratha-Sarvabhauma -Jayatsena Raviya
- Rksa-Bhima -
Pratlya- fled. Laksmana was killed. Vrndaraka, Asvatthama,
Bhavuka-Cakroddhata-Devatithi
Kama and others were amazed by this terrible valour
of Abhimanyu. Six ministers of Kama were slain.
Santanu-Vyasa-Pandu-Arjuna-Abhimanyu.
2} Purvajanma (Previous Birth}.
There is a story about
Next, Asvaketu, son of the King of Magadha
was
Purvajanma in the Mahabharata. It was
Abhimanyu's killed. King Bhoja was also killed. Salya was again
Varcas, son of Candra, who incarnated as Abhimanyu,
defeated. Satrunjaya, Candraketu, Meghavega, Suvarcas,
son of Arjuna. A conference took place between
the
were beheaded by
Devas and Candra about the incarnation of the Devas Suryabhasa who were all kings
in the world for the destruction of the wicked people. Abhimanyu. Sakuni was wounded by Abhimanyu's
arrow. Kalakeya, son of Subala was slain. M.B. Drona
Candra told the Devas: "I do not like to send Varcas,
Parva, Chapter 40, Verses 13 and 14 say that at
this
whom I love more than my life, to the earth. Still, I beat Abhimanyu to death with
think it is not right to stand in the way of the plans
oi stage, Prince Dus'sasana
I am to his mace.
the gods. You must agree to one condition if
After Death. M.B.
Drona Parva, Chapter 71, Verses
send my son. Let him be born as the son of Arjuna. 4)
be separated from him more than 12-16 say that after death Abhimanyu attained the
I am unable to for
son will enter into the Cakra Vyuha immortal world of the Munis (Saints). King Pariksit
sixteen years. My to me was the son of Abhimanyu. In M.B. Svargarohana
of the enemies to be killed by them and return
this Parva, Chapter 5, Verses 18-20, we find that after his
in the sixteenth year." The devas (gods) accepted
m death, Abhimanyu entered the
moon in his former form
condition. That is Abhimanyu was killed
why
his
of Varcas.
sixteenth year. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67).
received his 5) Other names of Abhimanyu. In the Mahabharata
3 ) Military Training and War. Abhimanyu
in arms from his father Arjuna. Later, he Abhimanyu has been referred to by several otherjiames,
training
mother Subhadra to Dvaraka and lived such as ARJUNI, Saubhadra, Karsni, Arjunatmaja,
went with his and Phalguni.
for some time with his uncle Sri Krsna.
There he is Sukratmajatmaja, Arjunapara
in arms from Pradyumna, 6) Other details. King Pariksit was the son of Abhi-
said to have received training was Janame-
son of Sri Krsna. After the incognito life of the manyu. Janamejaya was born as his son. It
divided
There seems some difference of opinion regarding the number of parts into which King Idhmajihva
to be
In the BhSvata th
the number is eieht
number mentioned is Seven; but in the Malayalam version of te*^*<fr*&*
Ksemam, Amrtam AbSTifc
The original Bhagavata says: "Sivam Yamasam, Subhadram, Santam,called S.vadam ,s seen. ADnayam
In the Malayalam Bhagavata an eighth division
VarsaTSu girTyo nadyalca sap"a%abhijlatah".
ADHIRATHA
ABHIMANYU II
jaya who performed Sarpasatra named Skanda we see the bull named Acala. (M.B. Salya
Ihesonof Janamejaya. Salfuiika
Sahasrfmika. King Udayana,
11
l
so
to Sahasiamk
stones
^ 1
,, m'ka by
about
mentioned
^ Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 74).
ACALA III. An epithet of Mahavisnu.
thousand names oi Mahavisnu we see the
also.(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 149,
name Acala
Verse 92).
Among
are to be
the people the ideas that of Acyutayu. Both of
presenting before divisions of side. Srutayu was the brother
to them. There are four
fommunkated them were killed by Arjuna in the Kaurava-Pandava
this art known Vacika, Ang.ka and Aharya Sri Krsna
battle. These heroes attacked Arjuna and
as Sattvika,
depending on Sattva, Vak, Anga and Aharya. Besides with their arrows and Arjuna had some
Abhimamka furiously
these, another division
known as (Abhi- Drona Parva, Chapter
This the difficulty in killing them. (M.B.
manottha) may also be mentioned. signifies
two kinds 93, Verses 7-42) .
in the use' of weapons, and it was here that Duryo- Chapter 83, Verses
dhana and Karna developed their friendship and
alliance. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 147,
Verse 3). 2Reoti. Once Kasyapa made
Having
all arrange-
faded to
Sri in Chapter 3 relates ments to perform a sacrifice (yaga) Varuna's cow and
Mahadevlbhagavata, the suitable cow for it, he
stole
"Thus lamenting Kunti sent the aS
following incident :
S
Wn
1,
she wished. Accordingly
S'ukta and ndra
112). son. The boon was readily granted
16,
ADHRSYA. A river. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter y,
born to her. The birth of Indra
was the son thus
in Diti towards Aditi, and
Verse 24). she
dered jealousy
ADHYAPAYANA. A disciple of great preceptor ot
the
Indra. Kasyapa obliged
He divided Atharvaveda ^demanded a son equal to
Atharvaveda, Sumantu.
also. As Diti advanced in pregnancy and her
into two parts and gave one to Utatthya and the other Diti
of the former
to Vedadarsana. (Bhagavata, Skandha 12). beauty also increased Aditi got jealous
him that unless
and told
Brahma and and she called her son Indra
ADITI. KaSyapa, grandson of
1) Genealogy. in Diti would deliver a
of Daksapraja- something was done time,
son of Marici married Aditi, daughter thus relegating him pro-
sisters: Diti, Kala, Danayus, child equal to him (Indra)
pati. Aditi had twelve of second Deva. Thus admonished
bably to the place
Danu, Sirhhika, Krodha, Prtha, Visva, Vinata, Kapila, artful Indra approached Diti and
by his mother the
'
Muni and Kadru. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter I have come to serve you . I
born to Kasyapa by Aditi told her: "Mother,
65, Verse 12). Devas are sons services drove
was greatly pleased. Indra's
and hence they are known as Aditeyas also. Kasyapa and Indra used the opportunity
married all the thirteen sisters including Aditi,
and sYeep very quickly,
ADRA AGASTYA
to cuter the womb of Dili and cut into 49 pieces the ADRIKA. A nymph (devastrl). There is a story in
child with his weapon, the Vajra. The child in the Devlbhagavata about her being cursed by a Brahmin
womb began crying on receiving cuts with Vajra when and turned into a fish.
Indra asked it not to cry. (Ma ruda, don't cry) and ADRSTABHAYA is the curse put on King Janamejaya
so the child got out of Dili's womb as 49 Marutas by Sarama, the dog of the Devas. While Janamejaya,
(winds). Then did Dili wake up and cursed Aditi as son of Pariksit was conducting, along with his bro-
follows "Your son did treacherously kill my
:
thers, a yaga of long duration at Kuruksetra the son
offspring in the womb itself. So he will forfeit the of Sarama went to the place and was thrashed by
three worlds. You were responsible for the murder of the brothers of Janamejaya. Seeing her weeping child
my child. You will, therefore, have to spend days in Sarama naturally got angry. She cursed the king
prison grieving over your children. Your children also thus :
"My son did not commit any offence; he did
will be annihilated". Because of this curse of Diti, not even look at the havis (oblations), nor did he
Indra once lost Devaloka and had to live elsewhere, lick it. For having thrashed the innocent child you
and Nahusa functioned, for a time as Indra. (See will experience Adrstabhaya. When the yaga was
Nahusa). In the 28th Dvapara yuga Aditi trans- over Janamejaya got rid of the curse by getting sage
formed as DevakI had to be a captive of Kamsa, and Somasravas do certain proper rites.
Kaihsa killed her children by dashing them on the ADRSYANTI, wife of sage Sakti, the son of Vasistha
ground. (Devlbhagavata, Skandha 4). and mother of sage Parasara.
4. Narakasura stole the earrings of Aditi. Narakasura, who Kalmasapada, a king of the Iksvaku dynasty reached
turned out to be a curse and menace to the three worlds the hermitage of Vasistha during a hunting expedi-
consequent on the boon he got from Visnu, attacked tion when Sakti, eldest of the hundred sons of
Devaloka once, and carried off Indra's royal umbrella Vasistha came walking towards him. False pride
and Aditi's earrings. Mahavisnu incarnated himself as prevented either of them from giving way to the
Sri Krsna, killed Narakasura in battle and got back the other. The King got angry and whipped Sakti. Sakti
earrings etc. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 48, Verse cursed the king and he was converted into a demon.
80; Sabha Parva, Chapter 38, Verse 29; Bhagavata This happened at a period when sages Vasistha and
Dasama Skandha). Vi^vamitra were at logger-heads. Visvamitra got
5. Mahavisnu became seven times son to Aditi. Once, de- admitted into the body of King Kalmasapada a
sirous of having children Aditi cooked food (rice) demon called Kimkara, and the king set out to take
sitting herself in the entrails of Mount Mynaka (M.B. revenge upon Sakti, the son of Vasistha. The King
Aranya Parva, Chapter 135, Verse 3). Dharmaputra, was further promised all support by Vi'svamitra.
in the course of singing the glories of Lord Krsna after
Kalmasapada ate up all the hundred sons of Vasistha.
the great war refers to Visnu having taken birth Overcome with grief Vasistha attempted suicide
seven times in the womb of Aditi. (M.B. Santi Parva, many a time. But the spirit (Atman) did not quit
Chapter 43, Verse 6). the body. Thus sunken in grief Vasistha lived in his
6. Budha cursed Aditi. A story in the Mahabharata hermitage with Adrsyanti, wife of Sakti. One day
refers toBudha's once cursing Aditi. The ever increas- Vasistha heard distinct sounds of the chanting of
ing power of Asuras made the Devas anxious. Aditi, the Vedas and Adrsyanti told him that a child of
the mother of the Devas decided to send them all to his son, Sakti, was developing in her womb and that
annihilate the Asuras. She had finished cooking food the vedic sounds heard were sounds produced by
for her sons, and lo there appeared before her Budha
! that son chanting the vedic hymns. Vasistha thus
and asked for food. Aditi asked him to wait pending was happy to hear that the dynasty will not become
her sons taking their food hoping that there would be extinct and, so, gave up all ideas of suicide. Another
some food left after that. This caused Budha to lose day Kalmasapada in the guise of the demon hurriedly
his temper and he cursed her that (Aditi) she would came to devour Adrsyanti and Vasistha gave him
become the mother of Vivasvan in his second birth redemption from the curse. He was restored to his
as Anda, when she would suffer pain in her abdomen. old state and form. Adrsyanti duly gave birth to a
(M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 34, Verses 96-98). son, and the child grew up to become Parasara,
7. Former birth of Aditi. During the former years father of Vyasa.
(period) of Svayambhuva Manu the Prajapati called While the Pandavas, in the course of their forest
life, were passing the banks of river Ganga
Sutapas, along with his wife Prsni did Tapas for at midnight,
12000 years. Then Mahavisnu appeared before them, a Gandharva named Arhgaraparna enjoying in the
and Prsni prayed for a son like Visnu himself, and river-water clashed with Arjuna, and he was defeat-
Mahavisnu was born as her son named Prsnigarbha. ed. The story of Adrsyanti is one of the many
This story is related by Sri Krsna to his mother on stories told by Arhgaraparna to the Pandavas. (M.'B.
his birth as the son of Vasudeva. (Bhagavata, Dasama Adi Parva, Chapters 175-178).
Skandha, Chapter 3). AGASTYA.
She,who became the wife of Prajapati as Prsni before 1 ) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in this order
also was collected and kept in the same pot along with he went in search of money. He at first approached
that of Varuna. After a few days the pot broke open King Srutarva, who produced accounts of his in-
by itself and two babies came out. One was Agastya come and expenditure and convinced Agastya that
and the other Vasistha. As these two were born of the he was having no balance at all. Agastya, accompa-
semen of Mitra and Varuna, they came to be known nied by Srutarva, then proceeded to King Bradh-
as Maitravarunis later. This story partly occurs in Sand nasVa. He also produced accounts and refused to help
Parva of Maha'bharata, Verse 343 of Chapter 88. Agastya, who then followed by Srutarva and Bradh-
3 ) Education. Very little is mentioned in the Puranas nasva went on to the wealthy King Trasadasyu,
about the education of Agastya. Still there are am- who also producing his accounts refused to render
ple proofs that he was well-versed in the Vedas and any help to Agastya. Finally Agastya accompanied
sciences and well skilled in the uses of diverse weapons. by the three Kings, went to the house of Ilvala, a
In Verse 9, Chapter 139 of Mahabharata, Adi Parva, noble asura of immense wealth.
Drona says to Arjuna as follows: This asura Ilvala lived in Manimatpattana with his
"Agnivesa, my teacher was the disciple of Agastya, in the younger brother Vatapi. Once Ilvala approached
art of using bows and arrows and I am his disciple". a hermit Brahmin and requested that his wish for
When it is said that even Agnivesa the teacher of a son, having the power and status of Indra, be grant-
Drona was a disciple of Agastya, his proficiency in the ed. The Brahmin refused to grant such a boon.
art of using weapons could easily be discerned. Since then Ilvala and Vatapi considered Brahmins
4) Marriage. There is an interesting story behind the as their enemies. The elder brother converted the
marriage of such an austere man as Agastya, who had younger one (Vatapi) into a goat and whenever a
brought all the passions under control. As the hermit Brahmin visited his house, he would kill the goat,
Agastya was walking along the forest, he saw his prepare mutton dishes and set them before his
ancestors (Pitrs) hanging head downwards in a canyon. guest. Whenhe had finished eating, Ilvala would call
He wanted to know the reason and they replied : aloud. "Vatapi, come out". Breaking the stomach
"Child; we would be allowed to enter heaven only of the guest open, Vatapi would come out. In this way
if sons are born to you. So get married as soon as Ilvala had killed a good number of Brahmins. It was
possible". The necessity of marriage occurred to him at this juncture that Agastya and the Kings came to
only then. But will there be any woman who could be beg money of him.
patient enough to become the wife of this bearded Ilvala welcomed the guests with hospitality and as
dwarfish hermit ? Agastya did not lose heart. At that usual killed the goat, prepared food with it and served
time the King of Vidarbha was doing penance to the food before Agastya. When Agastya had finished
obtain a son. Agastya collected the quintessence of eating, Ilvala called Vatapi loudly. But Agastya slowly
all living beings, with which he created an extre- said, "Vatapi, jirno bhava" (Let Vatapi be digested)
mely beautiful lady and named her Lopamudra. and immediately Vatapi was digested in the stomach
Agastya gave Lopamudra as daughter to the King of of Agastya. The awe-stricken asura Ilvala gave each
Vidarbha. The King who was delighted at getting Brahmin ten thousand cows and as much gold and
such a daughter, employed hundreds of maids to look to Agastya he doubled the quantity of alms. Over
after the child, who soon grew up to be a young lady. and above this, he presented Agastya with a chariot
Agastya once approached the King of Vidarbha hitched with two fine horses called Viravan and
AGASTYA ( AGASTYA
Suravan. Agastya returned to his hermitage and as the petals had closed over him. It was at this critical
adorned himself as Lopamudra had demanded. (Maha- moment that King Nahusa had completed hundred
bharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 99). horse-sacrifices and became eligible for the throne of
6) Birth of a son. Lopamudra became pregnant. Devendra. At a great gathering of the Gods Nahusa
Agastya told her, "A thousand ordinary sons, or was elected as Devendra. Though Nahusa got all the
hundred sons, each having the strength of ten ordinary celestial maids at his disposal in the Nandanodyana
sons, or ten sons, each having the strength of hundred (Nandana Garden) his passion for women was not
satiated. So he began to have an eye on Indrarri. She
ordinary sons, or a son, greater and nobler than one
thousand sons which of these do you prefer ?" was in sorrow and misery at the disappearance of her
Lopamudra preferred one son. When she was with husband Indra, and did not at all look with favour on
child Agastya again went to the forest to do penance. this new move on the part of the new Indra. She sought
After seven years of pregnancy Lopamudra gave the help of Brhaspati, who agreed to protect her
birth to a lustrous son. The hermit Drdhasyu, who is from Nahusa. The newly-elected Indra could not tole-
also called Idhmavaha, is this son. This child is said rate this disloyalty on the part of Indram. He became
to have chanted the Vedas (Holy Scriptures) im- furious and threatened Brhaspati with death, if IndranI
mediately on his birth. He used to gather twigs for was not sent to him forthwith. All hermits gathered
kindling the sacrificial fire of his father,and hence he round Nahusa and tried with their advice to dissuade
got the name Idhmavaha.* him from this attempt, but he would not be dissuaded.
7) How he stamped the Vindhya mountain down. Once the Nahusa belittled Brhaspati and all the hermits and was
talebearer Narada happened to come to the Vindhya rude to them. Finally the hermits, being afraid of
Mountain, who gladly welcomed Narada, gave him a Nahusa, went to Brhaspati to persuade him to send
seat, showed hospitality and asked for news. Narada said Indram to Nahusa. Brhaspati suggested to Indram a
"May you be blessed. Just now I am coming from the way of safety. Accordingly she came to Nahusa and said
Mahameru. Indra, Agni (fire) and other gods live to him "Lord, to become your wife, is a matter of great
there. Kailasa, Nisadha, Nila, Gandhamadana etc. are pleasure to me. But before that I must make sure if
living anywhere. So allow me to make
mountains far nobler than this Meru. But they are my husband is a
not so haughty as him. That the Sun and the Moon search". Nahusa agreed to this and by the blessings
and such others revolve round him, is the reason for his of Devi, Indram found out her husband. But Indra
arrogance". On hearing these tales, Vindhya thought would not return to the court, with Indram, who
that Meru should be taught a lesson. Once Vindhya then complained about Nahusa's outrageous behaviour.
made his peaks grow higher and higher till they touched Indra advised her a new way to protect herself from
the sky. The Sun, the Moon and others found it very Nahusa's onslaught.
difficult to pass over the high peaks in their usual jour- Indram returned to Nahusa and told him "Lord, wo-
neys to the West, and so they had to roam about in men generally love pomp and glory. I have a mania
the sky. When the journeys of the Sun and the Moon for vehicles. You should make a palanquin. Let the
were hindered, everything in the world fell into chaos. palanquin bearers be hermits. You must come to my
The gods came to Vindhya in groups and tried to house in that palanquin with hermits as your palanquin
pacify him. But their attempts were futile. So they bearers and then I will accept you as my husband."
approached Agastya and made their petition to him. Nahusa agreed. He employed Agastya and such other
He agreed to pacify Vindhya somehow or other. Agas- hermits to bear his palanquin. He got into his palan-
tya and his wife came to Vindhya from Kasinagara. quin and started for Indrani's house. His desire to
When Vindhya saw Agastya he began to shiver with reach Indra.ni was such that he thought the hermits to
fear. Contracting all his high peaks, he bowed before be very slow. To make them quick enough he ordered
Agastya, who said to Vindhya thus "Vindhya, I am "Sarpa, Sarpa" (walk quick, walk quick). The hermits
going to South Bharata. Let your heads be low till I began to run. Still Nahusa was not satisfied. He kicked
come back". Vindhya agreed. Agastya passed on to at the heads of the hermits and whipped the dwarfish
the South and built a hermitage in the Malayacala and Agastya.
lived there. Since then Agastya had never gone to Agastya got angry and cursed Nahusa thus: "Since
the North and Vindhya had never risen up. As he had you have whipped me saying 'Sarpa Sarpa', may you
made the mountain (Aga) bow its head he got the be transformed into a mahasarpa (huge serpent) and
name Agastya. (Tenth Skandha of Devibhagavata). fallinto the great forest."**
8) Nahusa transformed to a huge serpent by Agastya. The horror-stricken Nahusa pleased Agastya by praise.
Devendra killed Vrttrasura, an enemy of the gods. Agastya said that Nahusa would be freed from the
As Devendra had resorted to treachery for killing the curse and attain heaven when he happened to meet
enemy (see the word Vrttrasura) he incurred the sin Dharmaputra. Nahusa instantly changed into a
of 'Brahmahatya'. Once Indra went to the Manasasaras, serpent of immense size and slided into a great forest
without the knowledge of anybody and hid himself in in the Himalayas. (Devibhagavata, 8th Sarga).
the petal of a lotus flower. The gods and especially During their sojourn in the forest, the Pandavas
Sacidevi were much alarmed at the disappearance of visited many holy places and reached the Yamuna
Devendra. Heaven was without a King. Bad omens mountain in the Himalayas. When Bhlma was passing
began to appear. Indra, who had hidden in the lotus by the mouth of a cave he was attacked by a huge
stalk in the shape of a water-snake, was not at all visible
serpent. In spite of his immense strength Bhlma could
* Idhma
twigs of firewood. (Idhma= twigs of firewood) (vaha^ carrier).
'* It is mentioned in the
Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 100, that the person who cursed Nahusa and turned him
into a huge serpent, was the hermit Bhrgu, who had been hiding in the hair of Agastya.
AGASTYA AGASTYA
not extricate himself from the hold of the snake, who It is this curse
that brought about the death of
eventually informed Bhlma of its previous history. Maniman and the army. When Kubera saw Bhima
When Bhima understood that the serpent was none face to face his curse was revoked.
(Mahabharata,
other than Nahusa, a King of the Surya dynasty Vana Parva, Chapter 160).
(Solar), he felt sorry for him. Dharmaputra, who 11) Agastya cursing Marica and Tadaka. The boys
came there in search of Bhima, talked with Nahusa, Rama and Laksmana went to the forest with Visva-
who immediately his original form arid
regained mitra for protecting sacrifice. When they entered the
went to heaven. (Mahabharata, Chapter 17 of Tadaka forest Visvamitra told them the story of
Udyoga Parva; Chapter 179 of Vana Parva; Chapter Tadaka thus:
342 of Santi Parva). Tadaka isthe daughter of Suketu,
a semi god of the
9) How Agastya drank up the ocean. Indra ruthlessly Yaksa. Being childless for a long time Suketu was
tribe
killed Vrttrasura, who had been harassing the Gods, miserable and began to do penance before Brahma,
with the help of the Kalakeyas. The frightened Kala- who blessed him and granted his wish and a daughter
keyas got into the ocean and hid themselves at the was born to him. This daughter was named Tadaka.
bottom. From that hideout they decided to destroy Brahma blessed her, giving her the strength of one
the three worlds. At night they came out on the thousand elephants. Tadaka grew up and became a
earth and ate a good deal of Brahmins, and caused young woman. Suketu gave her in marriage to Sunda,
much damage to the hermitages of Vasistba and son of Iharjha. Tadaka gave birth to a son called
Cyavana. All the Brahmins on the earth were terribly Marica. When Sunda was killed, Tadaka got wild
afraid of the Kalakeyas. The gods went to Visnu and ran into the hermitage of Agastya causing much
and prayed for protection. Visnu informed them that havoc there. At this Agastya got angry and cursed
the Kalakeyas could not be caught unless the ocean her to become a RaksasI
(giantess) and instantly
was dried up, and this task could be performed only the bodies of Tadaka and Marica were deformed.
by Agastya. So the Gods approached Agastya and told Tadaka could not control her anger and she demo-
him what Visnu had informed them. With pleasure lished the hermitage of Agastya. (Valmlki
Ramayana,
Agastya accepted the job. Accompanied by the Gods Balakanda).
and hermits he neared the swaying and surging ocean. 12) The story of the theft of lotus. Once
Bhrgu,
While all were watching unwinkingly Agastya brought Vasistha and other- hermits went on a
pilgrimage,
the great ocean into his palm and drank it up very with Indra as their leader. On the way they
easily and subsequently the Kalakeyas were killed. reached Brahmasaras, in the holy place of Kausikl.
Now the Gods again approached Visnu and made Agastya had grown some lotus flowers there. The
representation about the loss of the ocean. Visnu told pilgrims plucked stealthily all the lotus flowers nur-
them that by the penance of Bhaglratha the divine tured by Agastya and ate them. The furious
Agastya
Ganga would fall into the earth and then the ocean got into the midst of the hermits in search of the
will be filled. In this way the earth regained its lost culprit. None admitted the theft. Finally he caught
ocean. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapters 101 to hold of Indra, as the thief. Indra said "O, Lord,
105). had it not been for my eagerness to hear discourses
10) Agastya cursing Kubera and his companion. In the on duty from your face, I would not have stolen
course of their sojourn in forest, the Pandavas your lotus flowers." Saying thus Indra returned the
visited several holy places and reached the proximity lotus flowers. Agastya was pleased and let Indra
of the Himalayas. Leaving his brothers behind, and the hermits depart in peace. (Mahabharata,
Arjuna went up the Mahameru to worship Siva. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 94).
Years passed by. At last his brothers also started 13) How Agastya burned the Asuras (demons). (This
for the Mahameru in search of Arjuna and with story occurs in the Mahabharata as, having been told
the help of the hermits Vrsaparva and Arstisena, they by the God Vayu to Bhlsma as a discourse on the
reached Kuberapurl (the capital of Kubera). There greatness of Agastya, and Bhlsma reiterating it to
Bhima destroyed the army of Kubera and killed Arjuna).
Maniman, his friend and favourite. Dharmaputra, Once the Gods had to accept defeat at the hands of
repenting of his younger brother's iniquity bowed the Asuras (Demons) and they approached Agastya
before Kubera and asked him with politeness, why the and said thus Oh, hermit, since we have been defeat-
:
power of Gods gave way to the power of man. Kubera ed by the Asuras, our prosperity is at an end. There
replied that it was due to the curse of Agastya and is none to help us but you." Hearing this Agastya
began to depict the event thus Once my friend
: became angry and began to burn the Asuras to death,
Maniman and myself were going, in a chariot, to be by the merits of his penance. Many of them fell down
present at the singing and chanting just begun at on the earth and some fell into Patala (the nether world) .
Kusavatl. At that time Agastya was standing in his The asuras who thus fell were not killed by Agas-
hermitage on the bank of Kalindl, performing Sun tya. Thus the menace of the Asuras in heaven was
worship. When Maniman saw this from the sky, he warded off, and the Gods lived in peace and prosperity.
spat on the head of Agastya, who instantly getting wild (Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 155, Verses
cursed me. "Lo, Kubera, your friend Maniman 1 to 13).
spat on my head in your sight. So this Maniman and 14) Indra' s conflict with Agastya. Once Agastya com-
your army will meet with death at a man's hand. menced a sacrifice of twelve years' duration. Many
When they die you should not feel sorry for them. If hermits participated in this sacrifice. No sooner had
it becomes possible for you to meet the man who the hermit begun the sacrifice, than Indra, (the God of
killed Maniman you will be liberated from the curse." Thunder and Rain) stopped rain in the world. Crops
AGASTYA 8 AGASTYA
Agastya to the south. Accordingly Agastya reached Urvasi, Jayanta and Narada. According to the curse
Kuttalam, where there was a temple dedicated to Jayanta became a bud. Urvasi was born in the earth
the worship of Visnu. Agastya had besmeared his as a woman called Madhavl and 'Mahatl' the lute of
forehead with ashes and so admission to the temple Narada became the lute of the people of the earth.
AGASTYA AGASTYA SARAS
22) Agastya cursing Dufpanya. Duspanya was the last (6) Agastya gave Sri Rama an arrow, which, when
son of the King of Pataliputra. The wicked Duspanya shot at an asura (demon) would pierce his heart, pass
had slain a large number of babies, and the King on to the other side, fly to the sea and bathe in the
therefore expelled him from the palace. Duspanya sea-water and return to the quiver, it is said. (Uttara
went into the forest, where he caught hold of the Ramayana).
child of Ugraravas and killed it by putting it under ( 7)
Once Agastya visited the hermitage of Apastamba.
water. Ugraravas cursed him and accordingly he fell He asked Agastya, who, of Brahma, Visnu and Siva,
into water and died and his spirit became a ghost was the Supreme Agastya replied: "These three
deity.
and wandered about tormented with pain and are only manifestations of the one
three different
anguish. At last the spirit approached Agastya, who supreme Being". (Brahmapurana).
called his disciple Sutisna and asked him to go and (8) For the story of how Agastya cursed the sons of
bathe in the Agni tirtha (a bath) in the Gandhama- Manibhadra and transformed them to seven palms,
dana mountain and bring some water from the tirtha see the word 'Saptasala'.
and sprinkle it on the spirit of Duspanya. Sutisna (9) There was a hermit called Sutisna, to whom Sri
acted accordingly and immediately the spirit of Dus- Rama and Laksmana paid a visit when they were
panya received divine figure and entered heaven. (Setu wandering in the forest. This Sutisna is the young-
Mahatmya). er brother of Agastya. (See the word Sutisna).
23) How Agastya got golden Bangle. Once Agastya (10) Agastya cursed Suka and deformed him into a
entered a forest of about a hundred yojanas wide. The Raksasa. (See the word Suka ii.) .
forest was devoid of life. When he had walked a few 25) Conclusion. It is believed that the great hermit
more steps some Gandharvas (semi-gods) and celestial Agastya, who had performed such wonderful deeds by
maids came there singing and dancing. From among the merits of his penance, is still doing penance in the
them a noble male being came forward to the bank of Agastya Kuta hills. Agastya who had travelled through-
a lake in the forest and ate without any hesitation, the out the length and breadth of Bharata had several
corpse of a man that was lying there. After that he hermitages. In the Valmiki Ramayana, Aranyakanda,
walked round Agastya and made obeisance to him. Sarga 11, a description is given, of a beautiful hermit-
Agastya asked him why he had eaten the corpse of a age of Agastya, and the peaceful atmosphere that
man. The noble man told Agastya thus "In treta :
prevailed in and around it. Agastya had presented to
yuga (the third age) there lived a King named Vidarbha. Sri Rama a bow got from Visnu, when the brothers
I am his son and
my name is Sveta. After having ruled, visited his hermitage. Agastya had accompanied Sri
over my kingdom for a long time, I came to the bank Rama and his followers on his return journey to
of this lake and began to do penance. After that dis- Ayodhya from Lanka, with Slta after killing Ravana.
carding my body I entered heaven. Though I attained There is a legend in the Tamilnad that Agastya was a
heaven my hunger was not appeased. I asked Brahma member of the first two 'Saiighas' (groups) of the
how, I, a dweller of heaven, got this hunger. Brahma "three Sanghas", mentioned in Tamil literature. As
said that when I was King I had Agastya was dwarfish he is mentioned as Kurumuni,
given nothing to any-
body and so I got this hunger even after entering (short hermit) in Tamil works. He has written a Tamil
heaven. As a remedy Brahma suggested that I should grammar on music, literature and drama. But this
come here everyday and eat corpse and when I had work is available now. The Tamil Grammar
not
completed ten thousand days the hermit Agastya 'Tolkapyam', which is considered to be the oldest gram-
would come here and that when I offered him a golden mar, was written by Tolkapyar, one of the twelve
bangle my sin would be washed away." Saying thus disciples of Agastya< Even today
in certain temples in
Sveta offered to Agastya the golden bangle given by the Tamilnad, Agastya-worship is carried on. Kambar,
Brahma and then he vanished and the corpse also dis- has mentioned about Agastya in his Ramayana. A great
appeared. Sveta went to heaven. (Uttara Ra.ma.yana). Tamil author Villiputturan says that the Tamil langu-
24) Other informations concerning Agastya. is the beautiful maiden presented by Agastya.
age
(1) Agastya had a brother called Sutisna. (Agni- It is believed that the following works have been com-
purana, Chapter 7) .
posed by Agastya:
(2) Sutisna was Agastya' s disciple too. (Setu Maha- 1) Agastya Glta in the Varahapurana, Pasupalopakh-
;
tmya ) .
yana.
(3) Ilvala and Vatapi were the sons of the giantess 2) Agastya Sarhhita; in Paiicaratra.
Ajarnukhi. In the valley of a mountain Ajamukhi pray- 3) Agastya Sarhhita, in the Skandapurana.
ed to Durvasas for love and thus Ilvala and Vatapi 4) Siva Sarhhita, in Bhaskara Sarhhita.
were born from Durvasas. These two sons demanded 5) Dvaidha-nirnaya Tantra.
that Durvasas should impart to them all his merits of AGASTYA KUTA. This is the sacred mount where
penance. Getting angry Durvasas cursed them that the sage, Agastya, sat and did penance during his so-
they would meet with death at the hands of Agastya. journ in the southern parts of India. In the Kiskindha
(Skandapurana, Asura Kanda). Kanda of Valmiki Ramayana we find King Sugrlva
(4) Agastya had been the priest of the King Khela. commanding that all his soldiers going in search of
(Rgveda, 112th Sukta). Slta should pay homage to the sage Agastya.
(5) When Sri Rama returned to Ayodhya, with Slta AGASTYA PARVATA. This is a mountain in South
from Larika, hermits from various parts visited him, India believed to belong to the Kalanjara mountain
among whom, Dattatreya, Namuci, Pramuci, Sri range. Agastya Kuta is in this mountain.
Valmiki, Soma, Kandu, Agastya and their disciples AGASTYA SARAS. This is another name for Agastya
were from the South. (Uttara Ramayana) . tirtha.
AGASTYA-ASRAMA 10 AGNI
AGASTYA-ASRAMA. The Puranas make mention of AGHAMARSAIV'A SOKTA. This is a hymn in the Rg-
several asramas connected with sage Agastya. The veda. It is said that all sins will be eliminated, if this
Pfmdavas during their exile visited an asrama of this hymn is recited three times, standing in water.
name. This is situated near Paiicavatf twentyfour miles AGHARDDANAVAMI. (See the word NAVAMl
to the south-east of Nasik. It is known as Agastya-giri VRATA).
now. (Sloka 20, Chapter 80; and Sloka 1, Chapter 96 AGHASVA. A King hermit (Rajarsi) named Pedu.
of Vana Parva, M.B.). (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 17, Sukta 116).
The Mahfibharata mentions another Agastya-Asrama AGNI.
near Prayaga. Dharmaputra along with Saint Lomasa 1) Genealogy. Agni was descended from Visnu in this
describes an asrama order
stayed here for some time. Valmlki Visnu-Brahma-Aiigiras-Brhaspati-Agni.
:
of this name which Rama and Laksmana visited during 2) We come across several contradictory state-
Birth.
their exile in the forests. (Chapter 11, Aranya Kanda ments in the Puranas regarding the birth of Agni. There
of the Ramayana). is some
real difficulty, therefore, in tracing correctly
AGASTYA TlRTHA. This is one of the five tirthas or the true genealogy of Agni. The one given above is
sacred places of worship lying scattered in the southern based on statements in Bhagavata and Mahabharata.
ocean. The other four are the following: (1) The Aiigiras is one of the six mind- born sons of Brahma.*
Saubhadra (2) The Pauloma tirtha (3) The
tirtha Afigiras married Sraddha and got four daughters and
Karandhama tirtha and (4) the Atipavana tirtha. two sons. Brhaspati was one of the sons and Utatthya
These five were known as Panca tirthas and many saints was the other. The daughters were Sinivali, Kuhu,
used to live there. There lived in each of these tirthas Raka and Anumati. (There is a mention of a third
one huge and fierce crocodile and all the saints living son named Samvarta in the Bhagavata by Eluthassan
there, afraid of these crocodiles, deserted their places though the original quoted below does not say so)
one by one. (Ref : Sloka 3, Chapter 220 of Adi Parva, Sraddha tu angirasah patni
'
M.B. For more details see under Panca tirtha) . Catasro sutakanyakah
AGASTYA VATA. This is a sacred shrine in the neigh- Sinivali Kuhu Raka
'
bourhood of the Himalayas. Arjuna paid a visit to this Caturthya anumatistatha
place while he was living with his brothers in the Tatputravaparavastam
forests during their period of exile. (Sloka 2, Chapter Khyatau svarocise'ntare
214 of Adi Parva, M.B.). Utatthyo bhagavan saksat
AGATI. A city. Two sons Taksaka and Chattraketu BrahmisthaJca Brhaspatih.
were born to Laksmana (the brother of Sri Rama) Brhaspati married Candramasi and got six divine sons.
by his wife Urmila. The court of the eldest prince Of these Sarhyu, the eldest, married Satya and Agni
Taksaka was situated in the city of Agati. Formerly was born to Sariiyu of Satya. ( Slokas 1 to 4, Chapter
this place was known as Kanakhala and was occupied 219, Aranya Kanda of Malayalam Mahabharata).
by forest tribes. Exterminating these forest tribes, 3) Agni One of the Afta-dik-pdlakas. (Asia = eight,
Laksmana built a city there and apportioned it to his dik = zone, palaka = guardian ). The Devi Bhagavata
eldest son Taksaka. (Uttara Ramayana). states in its eighth chapter that Agni is one of the eight
AGHA. The name of an asura. This asura was one of guards posted at the eight different zones to protect
the followers of Karhsa. According to the instructions the universe. Indra guards the east; Agni, the south-
of Karhsa, Agha once set out to Gokula to kill Sri east; Yama the south; Nirrti, the south-west; Varuna,
Krsna. At that time Sri Krsna was playing on the the west; Vayu, the north-west; Kubera, the North and
banks of the river Kalindi with other cowherds. Agha- Siva, the north-east. The place where Agni sits on
sura watched the games of the children from the sky guard is known as tejovati.
above. Then he transformed himself into a colossal 4) Agni One of the five elements. The universe is be-
serpent and lay with his mouth wide open; his open lieved to be composed of five elements of which Agni
mouth looked like an immense cave. The foul smell is one. The other four are Water, Earth, Ether and
coming from his mouth soon spread over the whole Air.
place. Sri Krsna and the other children did not know 5 ) The story of how Agni gave a Maya Sitd ( Phantom
anything about this. In the course of their games they Sitd) to Rama. During their exile in the forests
ri
walked into the cave-like mouth of Agha and were soon Rama and Laksmana were for some time living in an
trapped in his belly. Agha then closed his mouth and asrama built on the shores of the ocean. One day
all the boys including Sri Krsna were now imprisoned
Agni disguised as a Brahmin approached them and
inside his body. Some of the boys died. Realizing the said "O, Sri Rama, thou art born to kill the demon
situation Sri Krsna now enlarged his body. His body Ravana and save the world from his atrocities. Sita is
grew larger and larger until at last it burst open the body going to be a cause for that. Time is not far for you
of the serpent (Agha) Thus Agha was killed. Sri Krsna
. to finish this duty of yours. Ravana is soon to come and
then restored the dead boys to life by his divine looks kidnap your wife, Sita. You must, therefore, allow me
(Kataksa) This Aghasura was the brother of Bakasura
.
to play a trick on Ravana. Entrust Sita with me and
and Putana. (Bhagavata, Skandha 10, Chapter 12). I shall keep her safe. In her place here you can keep
AGHAMARSA^A. He was a great hermit of austerity, a Maya Sita (Phantom Sita) which will be a live rep-
who had observed the duties pertaining to Vana- lica of your real wife. In the end when you take back
prastha (the third of the four stages of life forest her- Sita after killing Ravana you will be compelled to
mit). (M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter 244, Stanza 16). throw your wife into the fire to test her chastity. At
*Manas=Mind. Putra=Son, Manasa-putras are sons created from the mind of Brahma, Sloka 10, Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.
AGNI 11 AGNI
that time I will take back the replica and give you always foiled by Indra who would send a heavy down-
back your real wife". Sri Rama was very much pour of rain to quench the fire because Taksaka, an
pleased to hear this. Agni then, by his yogic powers intimate friend of Indra, was living there.
created a Phantom Sita and gave her to him. Rama To gain his end Agni gave Arjuna an arrow-case
kept this as a secret even from Laksmana. In the great which would never be empty, a chariot bearing a
Rama-Ravana battle Ravana was killed and Sri Rama monkey flag, four white horses adorned with gold
took back Sita to his kingdom. Then respecting public chains and also the famous Gandlva bow. To Sri Krsna
opinion and wishing to establish in public the purity he gave the cakrayudha or the divine wheel-weapon.
of his queen King Sri Rama put her into the fire. At (All these military equipments were once given to
that moment Agni took back the replica and gave Agni by Varuna. ) When all these were given to them
back the real Sita to Sri Rama. Sita thus came out Krsna and Arjuna got ready to help Agni to burn the
from the fire unscathed. Later, on the advice of Rama forest. Agni started burning the forest, Indra at once
and Agni, the Phantom Sita went to the sacred place sent a heavy downpour of rain and Arjuna created a
Puskara and started doing tapas (penance) there. canopy of arrows above the forest preventing the rains
After doing tapas for a long period of three lakhs of from falling on the forest. Agni carried on his work
divine years this Phantom Sita became known as undisturbed, the forest was burnt and Agni was cured
Svargalaksml. It was this Svargalaksml that later on of his indigestion. (Slokas 233 to 239, Adi Parva,
in the Dvapara yuga came out from the yajfia kunda M.B.).
of King Pancala as Paficali and became the consort of 8) Agni falls in love. As an inaugural procedure to the
the Pandavas. VedavatI, daughter of Kusadhvaja in great Rajasuya which Dharmaputra performed at
Krtayuga, Sita, daughter of Janaka in the Treta yuga, Indraprastha his four brothers Bhlma, Arjuna, Nakula
and Pancall, daughter of Drupada in Dvapara yuga and Sahadeva conducted a victory march to the four
are one and the same person. On account of this she different sides of the kingdom. Sahadeva who turned
is known as trihayanl also. (Chapter 9 of Devi south conquered many kings including Dantavaktra
Bhagavata). and Bhismaka and reached a country called Mahismati-
6 ) The story of how Agni got indigestion. In olden times pura. There he had to encounter a powerful king
there was a bold and mighty King called Svetaki. He called Nila. Before long there broke a fire in his camp.
conducted several different types of yajfia. Afflicted Disheartened, Sahadeva prayed to the God, Agni, for
by the unending dense smoke in the yajna hall all the help. It was then that Sahadeva came to know about
ascetics left the place and went their way. Undaunted the ties between Agni and Nila.
by this, Svetaki started another twelve-year sacrifice in "King Nila had a beautiful daughter named Sudar^ana.
which not a single sage took part. The sages rebuked Once when she was talking to her father after having
him and said if he wanted to conduct a sacrifice again entered the Agni-hotra Agni fell in love with her. From
he could invite sudras to help him. (Sudras belong that day onwards Agni became dreamy about the
to the lowest caste among Hindus and are not allow- beautiful lips of SudarSana. It reached a stage when
ed to participate in sacrifices generally.) Enraged Agni would burn only if it was blown by the lips of
by this insult Svetaki went to Kailasa and did fierce Sudarsana. This ended in Agni marrying Sudarsana.
penance. Lord Siva appeared before him and gave him After the marriage Agni lived in the palace of his
Durvasas as a priest for his yajfia. For twelve years father-in-law, King Nila, as a useful ally. It was at this
sage Durvasas performed the yajfia pouring into time that Sahadeva came to conquer Nila. But Agni
the mouth of Agni through the sacrificial pit un- knew that for the proper conduct of the Rajasuya of
limited materials of food. Agni was overfed and Dharmaputra his father-in-law had to surrender to
he got indigestion. He lost all appetite for food, be- Sahadeva and so advised his father-in-law to do so.
came weak and the brilliance of his face faded. What appeared to be a difficult problem was thus
(Chapter 235, Adi Parva, M.B.). easily solved. (Chapter 31, Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
7) The story of how Agni burnt the big forest, Khandava. 9) How Emperor Sibi was tested by Agni. Once Agni and
When the indigestion continued without abate for some Indra thought of testing how strong and deep was the
time Agni approached Brahma and asked for a cure. sense of charity in Emperor Sibi. Indra took the shape
Brahma declared that his indigestion would be cured of a hawk and Agni that of a dove and the dove flew
if Agni could burn the huge forest, Khandava, the and dropped down into the lap of the Emperor who
abode of the enemies of the Devas. Agni immediately was at that time doing a yaga. The hungry hawk
started consuming the forest. But the inhabitants of the came chasing its prey and finding the dove in the lap
forest soon quenched the fire. Disappointed Agni went of the Emperor said "O King, is it proper on your
:
to Brahma again and the latter advised him to wait for part to withhold my food from me, and keep it in your
some time till the advent of Nara-Narayanas to that lap ?" Hearing this Sibi replied: "This dove has sought
forest. They would then help Agni to burn the forest. refuge in me. It is my duty to give it protection. If it
Agni waited for the time to come. At that time the is only food you want I shall give you food." Sibi then
Pandavas were living in Indraprastha with Sri Krsna. offered many things including his kingdom to the
When the heat became unbearable there Arjuna and hawk in return for the dove. But the hawk refused
Krsna came to the banks of river Yamuna. Hearing them all and agreed to accept an equal weight
finally
about the arrival of Krsna and Arjuna who were none of flesh body of the Emperor. Sibi without
from the
but the incarnations of Narayana and Nara, Agni dis- any hesitation cut a portion of his thigh and weighed
guised as a brahmin approached them and requested it against the dove in a scale. The dove weighed more
them to help him to burn the Khandava forest. Agni and the Emperor started putting more and more flesh
added that any attempt of his to burn the forest was from his body to make the weight equal. But the dove
AGNI 12 AGNI
always weighed more and at last the Emperor said he Brahma modified the curse and declared that all that
would weigh himself against the dove. As the weak and Agni touched would become pure. Agni was consoled
fleshless Emperor was about to get into the pan of the and he started his work as usual.
scale Agni and Indra emerged from the bodies of the 12) How Agni cursed frogs, birds and elephants. Many
dove and hawk and appeared before the Emperor. important events took place while Agni was under-
They blessed him and immediately took him to heaven. ground cursed by Bhrgu. It was during that time that
(Chapter 131, Vana Parva, M.B.) . ParvatI cursed all the Devas and the Devas were
10) Agni and the testicles of a goat. The occasion is when defeated by the asuras (demons). The necessity of a
sage VisVamitra is taking Rama and Laksmana to the warrior capable of defeating the asuras arose then.
forests to give protection to the sages against the de- The idea of creating Lord Subrahmanya came up and
mons. They reached the place where Ahalya lay as a Brahma said that only Agni could help them in this
stone cursed by Gautama. Vi^vamitra told them the matter since Agni was the only one who escaped from
story: "It was here that the great sage, Gautama, lived the curse of ParvatI, being underground at the time
with his beautiful consort, Ahalya. Once Indra had an of the curse. The Devas started a vigilant search but
intercourse with her privately and Gautama coming to Agni was not to be found. Agni was then hiding inside
know of the misdeed cursed her and turned her into the ocean. The ocean was getting hot and the animals
stone. By the curse of the same sage Indra lost his living there found their life unbearable. Frogs went to
testicles. Greatly aggrieved by this loss Indra prayed the devas and told them where Agni was hiding.
to god Agni for help and on the advice of Agni the Enraged at this Agni cursed the frogs saying that they
devas removed the deformity by placing a goat's testi- would never be able to find the taste of anything.
cles instead." (Slokas 48 & 49, Bala Kanda, Valmiki Frogs went weeping to the devas who in turn blessed
Ramuyana). the frogs saying that they would acquire the ability to
1 1 ) How sage Bhrgu cursed Agni. Sage Bhrgu was living move about easily in
any darkness. Agni changed his
with his wife Puloma in his a'srama. Puloma became place of hiding and went and hid in a big banyan
pregnant. One day when Bhrgu wanted to go out for tree. An elephant going by that way found him out
a bath in the river he asked Agni to keep a watch over and informed the devas; knowing this Agni cursed
his pregnant wife. There was a demon by name the elephants saying that its tongue would go deep
Puloma who was once in love with Puloma. On this inside. But the devas blessed the elephants saying that
particular day Puloma entered the asrama to see the position of the tongue would never be a hindrance
his former love. When he entered the asrama Puloma to free eating and that elephants would be able to eat
saw Agni there burning with a brilliant flame in the anything and everything. Agni left the banyan tree
fire-pit. Puloma said "O God of fire, if I ask you a
: and hid himself in the hollow of a SamI tree. A little
question you must give me an impartial reply. I was bird living in that tree gave information to the devas
in love with this Puloma and I had accepted her as and the devas found him out before he got time to
my wife spiritually.But, then, her father gave her to leave the place. Agni cursed the bird saying that its
Bhrgu. Who,then, is the true owner of Puloma ?" tongue would always be curved inside and the devas
Agni was afraid of Bhrgu. Yet he explained the posi- blessed it saying that the curvature would help it to
tion honestly. "It is true that Puloma has married sing beautiful songs. Since Agni was found out from
Bhrgu. But he has not married her according to Hindu Sana tree this tree became sacred. Since this finding
rites."Hearing this the demon changed himself into out of Agni after a long absence is like a re-birth of
the shape of a swine and carried away Puloma. On Agni the Puranas mention that Agni was born from
the way Puloma delivered a male babe and it fell on the Saml tree. The Devas then requested Agni to help
the ground. The boy was named Cyavana. It was this them to create a son capable of conquering the de-
boy that became later on the famous Cyavana Maha- mons.* (Chapter 85, Anusasana Parva, M.B.) .
rsi. Even at birth the boy was brilliant as the Sun 13) Birth of Subrahmanya. At that time Varuna performed
to look at and Puloma, the demon, noticing the un- a yaga. All the dikpalakas (zone guardians of the
usual brilliance of the child left the mother and child universe) including Siva participated in the yaga.
on the way and fled frightened. Puloma returned to the Seeing the beautiful wives of the sages Siva had emission.
asrama carrying the child weeping profusely all the Taking the semen in his hand he put it into the fire.
way and creating a lanchrymal river called Vadhu- Agni carried it to Ganga and requested her to take it
saras. As soon as she entered the asrama the angry for conception. Though she at first refused she took it,
sage asked "Who told Puloma that you are my wife ?" became pregnant and finally delivered a male child
Puloma then told her husband all that happened there whom she threw into the forest Saravana. It was this
and Bhrgu called Agni and cursed him thus "May : child who became known as Karttikeya or Subrah-
you be a consumer of all things on this Earth". Great- manya later on. (Chapter 85, Anusasana Parva, M.B.).
ly aggrieved Agni went away and hid himself. The 14) How Agni blessed Nala. While Nala was going to the
absence of Agni created chaos in all the three worlds; wedding of Damayantl Indra, Agni, Varuna and Kala
Heaven, Earth and the Nether-world. A deputation of accosted him on his way and asked him to go as a
all the afflicted people waited upon Brahma and messenger of theirs and advise Damayantl to marry one
*Kathasaritsagara gives another version of why Agni went and hid himself under the ocean. When Kama, the God of Love, was
burnt to death by Siva, Parvati, Siva's wife, did not find a way to get a child for her from her husband. At last Brahma approached Siva and
told him that the absence of Kama was
making creation difficult. Siva then declared that thereafter Kama would find a place in the minds of all
living beings including himself. Parvati and Siva immediately commenced a sexual life which went on incessantly for a hundred years with-
out reaching the climax. The world was
agitated and the universe stood on the verge of ruin. The Devas decided to send Agni to intervene But
Agni was afraid of Siva and so went and hid himself under the ocean. (Chapter 6, Lavanakalambaka of Kathasaritsagara) .
AGNI AGNI
of them. Nala did so but Damayanti was adamant and 18) Agni and Nahusa. Repenting for his act of killing
said she would marry none other than Nala. So all the Vrtra Indra unknown to anybody went and hid in a
four gods appeared as Nala in the wedding hall. lotus in the Manasa Saras (Lake Manasa). Perplexed
Damayanti who was confused prayed that she should by the disappearance of their leader the devas brought
be shown the real Nala. The gods then changed into Nahusa from the Earth and made him their leader.
their original forms and blessed Nala. Agni said he Nahusa became very proud and arrogant of his new
would come and help him the moment he wanted him. position and tried to make Indrani his wife. Indrani
Thus Nala became a good cook and Nala Pacakarii went to Brhaspati for help. Brhaspati commanded
(
Pacakarii = cooking) became famous. Even now it is a Agni to go and find out Indra. Agni searched for him
synonym for good cooking. (Chapter 57, Vana Parva, in forests, rivers and oceans. At last he went to
M.B) Manasa Saras and searched among the lotuses. There
15) Agni and Rambhd. There was once a danava called he found Indra hiding in a lotus and Brhaspati was
He had two sons named Rariibha and Kararh-
Diiiiu. duly informed. Then Brhaspati gave Indrani some
bha. They had no children and tormented by this clever directions to kill Nahusa and Nahusa was
they went to Pancanada and started doing penance. killed. (See Agastya) There is a story in Sand Parva,
.
Rariibha sat in the centre of Paiicagni (five fires) and Chapter 28, of how Agni took for himself a quarter of
Karariibha in water to do penance. Indra afraid of the the sin which Indra acquired because of his killing
severe and powerful tapas of the two took the form of Vrtra, a brahmin by birth. (Chapter 14, Udyoga
a crocodile and killed Karariibha who was doing pe- Parva, M.B.).
nance in water by dragging him down to the water. Be- 19) Agni Deva and Karttaviryarjuna. After the great
reaved Rariibha started to commit suicide by jumping Kuruksetra battle the Pandavas went again to Kuru-
into the fire. God Agni appeared before him then and ksetra along with Sri Krsna. On their way Krsna
asked him what he wanted. Rariibha then said that he showed them the Parasuramahradas and narrated to
should get a son who would be famous as a warrior in them several stories of Rama. Reference to Agni
all the three worlds. Agni agreed. Rariibha on his way comes when Krsna explains the reason why Parasurama
back saw a voluptuous she-buffalo and married her cut off the thousand hands of Karttaviryarjuna. It was
at yaksa kavata. They lived a happy married life and at the time when Karttaviryarjuna was ruling the
one day a he-buffalo envious of their life attacked three worlds by might that Agni went and asked for
his
Rariibha and killed him. Grief-stricken Rarhbha's wife alms from him. Karttavirya gave Agni mountains and
jumped into the funeral pyre and committed suicide. forests for his food which Agni burnt and ate. In one
Then from the fire arose a demon named Mahisasura of the forests was the asrama of sage Apava and that
(Mahisa = Buffalo. Asura = Demon) . This buffalo- also was burnt. Enraged at this the sage cursed Kartta-
demon became a terror to all in the three worlds later virya saying that his thousand hands would be cut off
on. (Chapter 5, Devi Bhagavata). by Parasurama. Though the curse was not seriously
16) Difference of opinion between Agni and Angiras. Bhaga- minded by the King then, it so happened that before
van Aiigiras did penance in his own asrama and long Karttavirya had to encounter Parasurama in a
became more brilliant than Agni. The whole world battle when the children of the King stole a sacrificial
was submerged in his brilliance. Agni felt a bit depress- cow belonging to Jamadagni, father of Parasurama.
ed at this. Agni argued that it was not proper on the In the battle all the thousand hands of Kartta-
part of Brahma to give anybody else more brilliance viryarjuna were cut off by Parasurama. (Chapter 43,
than himself. So as a protest against this Agni dis- Santi Parva, M.B.).
appeared from the world. Even Aiigiras was annoyed at 20) How Agni was duped. Once the wives of the Sapta-
Agni's disappearance and so he went and consoled Agni rsis (seven Saints) attended a yaga where Agni was
and took him to Brahma. Brahma declared that hence- also present. Agni fell in love with them but knowing
forth the world would recognize Agni as the father and it to be futile to make any attempt to fulfil his desire
Angiras as his son. Thus Agni got the first place in he went to the forests dejected. Svahadevi, daughter of
effulgence. This is a story told by sage Markandeya Daksa was for a long time craving to marry Agni and
to Dharmaputra. (Chapter 217, Vana Parva, M.B. ). she decided to take advantage of the opportunity thus
17) Agni and Mahdbali. On their way to the forest sage offered. Disguising herself as the wife of Angiras, one
Visvamitra took Rama and Laksmana to Siddhasrama. of the seven saints, she approached Agni and said "O :
The sage explained to the princes the importance of Lord, I am Siva, wife of Angiras. We were all excited
that asrama. He said: "Mahavisnu lived in this asrama when you darted cupids' arrows against us and they
for a number of years. It was at that time that the have now selected me to come to you for fulfilling your
Emperor of the asuras (demons), Mahabali, son of desire". Agni believed her and took her as his consort.
Virocana, was ruling the world conquering even the (Chapters 223 to 227 of Vana Parva, M.B.).
devas. After having conquered all the three worlds 21) How Agni became a doctor. There was once a sage
Mahabali decided to conduct a yaga. A deputation called Dattatreya who had a son called Nimi. Nimi
of the Devas headed by Agni then waited upon Maha- had a son and he died after thousand years. The
visnu and Agni said: ''O Lord, Mahabali has com- bereaved sage performed a Sraddha which was attend-
menced a yaga and before it is finished you should go ed by all devas. The feast was so sumptuous that the
to him and do something for the benefit of the devas got indigestion after that. Consulting Brahma
devas". It was at this request of Agni that Mahavisnu Agni prescribed a remedy for their indigestion. He said:
took the form of Vamana and sent Mahabali to the "whenever you take any food make me also a partici-
nether-world. (Chapter 29, Balakanda, Valmiki pant in that. If you do so you will never get indiges-
Ramayana). tion". That is why a very small portion of any cooked
AGNI 14 AGNI
food is first thrown into the fire before given for eat- at the fag end of their life started on a pilgrimage to
ing.This story is part of Bhisma's oration to Dharma- the south with their consort Pancali. Marching along
pntra on the origin of Sriiddha (The ceremony con- slowly they reached the shores of Aruna Samudra
ducted on the anniversary of the death of a person by (Aruna Ocean) Arjuna had with him then the Gandiva
.
his son). (Chapter 92, Anusasana Parva, M.B. ). and also the arrow-case which never becomes empty.
22) HowAgni became a horse. There was once a precep- When they reached the shores of the ocean Agni blocked
tor named Aveda. He got a disciple named Uttanga. their way standing before them in the form of a huge
One day Aveda left his asrama for a distant place mountain and said, "O Arjuna I am god Agni. It was I
leaving his disciple in charge of the management of the who gave this famous Gandiva bow to you. The bow
asrama. The preceptor was absent fora longtime and belongs to Varuna. So please throw it into the ocean
his wife started making love to Uttaiiga. The dutiful and proceed on your way". On hearing this Arjuna
disciple strongly objected to this. When Uttanga com- threw both the bow and the arrow-case into the ocean
pleted his course of study under Aveda he enquired and continued the march. (Slokas 33 to 43, Chapter
what he should give to his preceptor. The preceptor 1, Mahaprasthanika Parva, M.B. ).
directed him to his wife. The wife who bore a grudge 25) Additional information about Agni, the God offire.
against Uttanga resolved to tease him and said that 1) SvahadevI, wife of Agni, gave birth to three sons,
he should go to King Pausya and beg of him the named Daksinam, Garhapatyam and Ahavaniyam.
earrings worn by his wife. Uttanga started immediately (Chapter 9, Devi Bhagavata) .
and getting the earrings was coming back when on 2) Agni, the God of fire, got three sons by his wife
the way Taksaka wrested the ornament from him and SvahadevI named Piivaka, Pavamana and Suci. These
went and hid in the nether-world. Uttanga followed three sons had all together fortyfive sons. These forty-
Taksaka and there Agni in the form of a horse appear- five grandsons, three sons and Agni himself constitute
ed before him and asked Uttanga what he wanted. the fortynine Fires mentioned in the puranas (Ahgira-
He replied that he wanted to subdue all the serpents in sarh).
the nether-world. Agni then advised him to blow thro' 3) Nila, the monkey, is born of Agni. (Sarga 41,
the nostrils of the horse. As he did so flames burst forth Chapter Kiskiiidha, Ramayana).
from all the openings of the horse making the nether- 4) Dhrstadyumna, the great archer, was born of Agni.
world hot and smoky. Taksaka was frightened and he (Sloka 126, Chapter 67, Adi Parva, M.B.).
at once gave back the earrings to Uttaiiga. Uttanga 5) Subrahmanya was born as the son of Agni. (Chapter
was again worried for he had very little time to carry the 225, Vana Parva, M.B.) .
earrings to the preceptor in time. Here again Agni helped 6) Agni, the God of fire, loved all prajapatis like his
him by carrying him swiftly on his back to the asrama. sons. (Chapter 85, Anusasana Parva, M.B.).
When the preceptor and his wife found that Uttanga 7) The sage, Bhrgu, was born from Agni. (Sloka 8,
had carried out their wish they blessed him. (Chapter Chapter 5, Adi Parva, M.B.) .
3, Adi Parva, M.B.). 8) All Devatas are Agni himself. (Sloka 109, Chapter 85,
23) Agni becomes a messenger. Once there arose a mis- Anusasana Parva, M.B.) .
understanding between Brhaspati and Sarhvarttaka, 9) God Agni loved God Skanda more than anybody
sons of Angiras. Brhaspati went to devaloka as priest else. (Chapter 226, Vana Parva, M.B.).
while the other remained in the world as a mad saint. 10) At the time when Sri Rama after killing Ravana
At that time a King called Marutta invited Brhaspati to was putting Slta to a purity test by throwing her into the
officiate as priest for a yajna of his. But
Brhaspati ,
there at Puradvara place a dead body and wait there. In the beginning Brahma created the universe.
11)
Sariivarttaka, Brhaspati's brother will come and repri- There was no death then and the Earth became over-
mand you. Without minding his scoldings follow him crowded. Brahma got worried and he sent fire from his
and request him to become the chief priest for your body to burn all beings. The world was on the verge
yaga. He will then ask you who advised you to do of extinction when Lord Siva intervened and requested
like this. Tell him
that Narada did so and if he asks Brahma to withdraw Agni and create the god of Death.
where he could find Narada do tell him that Narada ( Chapter 52, Drona Parva. M.B.).
is hiding inside Agni". Hearing this Marutta went to 12) Agni is one of the Asfa Vasus which are eight in
Kasi and did all as directed. Sarhvartta agreed to be- number. The others are Apa, Dhruva, Soma, Dharma,
:
come the priest but wanted Marutta to bring some gold Anila, Pratyusa and Prabhasa. (Chapter 15, Visnu
from Kailasa before that. Marutta brought that also
Purana).
and the yajna started. Brhaspati when he came to know 13) Suci, son of Agni, born of SvahadevI is Badavagni
of all these developments became sorry for his refusal himself. (Chapter 20, Agni Purana).
first and decided to become the
priest of Marutta for his 14) The God, Agni, uses a spear as his weapon and
yaga. It was Agni who carried this message of consent the vehicle he uses is a goat. (Chapter 51, Agni Purana).
to King Marutta. Thus Marutta's
yajna was performed 15) The sage, Agastya, converted the Visnu idol at the
in a grand way. (Chapter 9, Asvamedha Kuttalam temple into one of Siva and when people
Parva, M.B.) .
24) Agni takes back the Gandiva. At the time of around started an agitation Agastya sent forth flames
Khandaya dahana (burning of Khandava forest) Agni of fire through his eyes. (Asura Kanda of Skanda
gave Arjuna the famous Gandiva bow which Varuna Purana).
had given him. After the great Mahabharata battle
16) Agni was born to Pururavas as a son named Jata-
Agni took back this bow from Arjuna. The Pandavas vedas. (Chapter 14, Navama Skandha of Bhagavata).
AGNI 15 AGNIHOTRA (M)
17) The Devas wanted help to clean their hands when Hiranyaretah hutabhuk
oblated materials stuck to their hands and Agni creat- Dahano Havyavahanah
ed from water three sons named Ekata, Dvita and Saptarcirdamunah Sukra-
Trita for this purpose. Of these Trita fell into a well Scitrabhanurvibhavasuh
while drawing water. Seeing him fall the demons Sucirappittamaurvastu
closed the well but Trita broke the top and came out. Badavo Badavanalah
(Sukta 52, Anuvaka 10, Mandala 1 of Rgveda). Vahnerdvayorj val akila-
18) Once the earth looked like heaven because of the Varcirhetih sikha striyam
innumerable celestial beings who came to earth in search Trisu sphuliiigognikanah
of Agni. (Sukta 65, Anuvaka 12, Mandala 1 of Rg- Ksantapah Sajvarah samau
veda) .
Ulkasyannirgata jvala
19) The Sun hands over his
effulgence to Agni in the Bhutir Bhasita Bhasmam
evening and takes it back from him in the morning. (A Ksaro raksa. ca davastu
fact from Sruti Sukta 71, Anuvaka 12, Mandala 1 of Davo vanahutasanah.
Rgveda) .
(Amarakosa)
20) For making fire for the sacrificial
ceremony the The synonyms:
sages use two Arani sticks (These are two pieces of wood, 1) Agni, Vaisvanarah, Vahnih, Vitihotra, Dhanafijaya,
one upper and another lower, and fire is produced by Krpitayoni, Jvalana, Jatavedas, Tanunapat, Barhis,
attrition) It is believed that the sages get the strength
.
Susma, Krsnavartma, Sociskesa, Usarbhudha, Asra-
to produce fire from it through Vyana, one of the forms yasa, Brhadbhanu, KpSanu, Pavaka, Anala, Rohitasva,
ofVayu (air). So Rgveda describes Agni as the son of Vayusakha, Sikhavan, Asusuksani, Hiranyaretas, Huta-
Vayu. (Sukta 112/Anuvaka 16, Mandala 1). bhuk, Banana, Havyavahana, Saptarcis, Damuna,
21) In the times of the Rgveda Agni was worshipped Sukra, Citrabhanu, Vibhavasu, Suci, Appitta.
as a God. (Sukta 1, Anuvaka 1, Mandala 1, Rgveda). 2) Badavagni Aurva, Badava, Badavanala.
:
22) Lord Siva entered into an elaborate and long 3) Agnijvala: Jvala, Kila, Arcis, Heti, Sikha. (Flame)
conjugal play for creating Subrahmanya. Hundred 4) Sparks Sphuliriga, Agnikana.
:
years went by and still the preliminaries never ended. 5) Heat Santapa, Sajvara.
:
the devas decided to send Agni to put a stop to this 7) Ashes: Bhuti, Bhasita, Bhasma, Ksara,
Raksa.
libidinal play of Siva. But Agni was afraid of Siva and 8) Wild-fire :
Dava, Dava, Vanahutasana.
therefore absconded and hid himself in the ocean. The AGNIBAHU. A son of the first Manu.
ocean became hot and the water-animals unable to AGNIDATTA. See under the word Devadatta.
bear the increasing heat went and informed the devas of AGNIDATTA. (See under GWASARMA).
Agni's hiding place. Agni cursed them all saying that all AGNIDHARA TIRTHA. This is the name of a sacred
of them would go dumb. He then went to the Mandara place near Gautamavana. (See Sloka 146, Chapter 84,
mountain in the shape of an owl and hid there. But the Vana Parva, M.B.) .
devas went there also and picked him up. Agni then by AGNlDHRA (AGNlDDHRA).
his terrible heat stimulated Siva into action. Siva 1. Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus Visnu- :
threw his semen into Agni andT Agni poured it into Brahma-Marici-Kasyapa- Vivasvan Vaivasvatamanu-
-
tance in the Vedas. Because Agni was indispensable for jihva, Yajnabahu, Hiranyaretas, Ghrta-
Mahavlra,
yagas the care of Agni became very important. Accord- prstha, Sava, Medhatithi, Vitihotra and Kavi. A
ing to the Rgveda the birth of Agni is different. Born daughter also was born to Priyavrata and Barhismati
of the clouds Agni reaches the earth as lightning. Then named Orjjasvatl. Sukra married her and Devayam
Agni forsakes its form and becomes invisible. It was was their daughter.
Matarisva who gave form to Agni and gave him to the 3) Married Agnldhra married a nymph named
life.
Bhrgu family. From that day onwards it became Purvacitti.They had nine children Nabhi, Kirh- :
possible to produce fire and the Rgveda describes how purusa, Hari, Ilavrata, Ramyaka, Hirancaya, Kuru,
Agni is produced by sages by the use of Arani sticks. Bhadrasva, and Ketumala. It was from this Kuru that
The main job of Agni is to receive the oblations from the Kuru Varhsa began.
devas when they conduct yagas. 4) Other incidents. (1) Agnldhra ruled over Jambu-
27) Synonyms of Agni. dvipa for a long time. (Devi Bhagavata, SkandhaS).
Agnirvaisvanaro' Vahnih (2) While he was the ruler of Jambudvlpa Agnldhra
Vitihotro Dhananjayah once went into a cave and did hard tapas there with-
Krpi tayonir j valano out eating any food. Brahma then sent a beautiful
Jatavedastanunapat nymph (Apsara maiden) to him to tempt him and
Barhissusma Krsnavartma thwart his tapas. Agnldhra fell a victim to the tempta-
Sociskesah Usarbhudhah tion. His penance was shaken by that nymph named
Asrayaso Brhadbhanuh Vipracitti. He married her. (Bhagavata, Skandha 5,
Krsanuh Pavako'nalah Chapter 2).
Rohitasvo Vayusakhah AGNIHOTRA(M). This is a sacrifice offered to Agni-
Sikhavanasusuksanih deva. This has two parts, nitya and Kamya.
ACN1KKTU 16 AGNISOMA (S)
\ti\llsl.ir. A demon (R&ksasa) who was a clOM di-v.i to many lagCI, -lev.i and Saj;e Vasisjlia. It is a .
.,,1 .,,,,1
,,|. r .n. K.iv.nui K.iin.i kill.d i .,1 liiin in VU( e pn-li, n-.ive \vorkili.ihii", \\ilh ver\- subject of ,
,|,, ,| In , ballle willi Havana. inip-ii Ian- e. To ;M\e a ,-p\ ol [his book lo a good i
\i.Mki\i \K \ \n .
puhei ..i i ...id Subrahmanya, Ilialimin on ilu I nil Moon day in the month of
AUMI.OlsV 0,,e ol situated oil Ihe
Ilir devalokas Mai:;.- Sirsa is
suppo-.i-d lo be a hi;;hly \-irluous and
lummit oi Mount M.ili.uiK-m. The.-- .or .. Fev .>ih--r in, ilorious d,
i .
,1
\i ,\l \l \\ Name ol ODQ Aimi. bhaiaia; nl, and iiijunelions re la int.; lo the worship
i -. I ol
ACMMI I K \ I h, lui ..... K.ihde,.'. I'l.iy,
Mala various godi (devapQj&vidhis) in.'.t.illaiion of idols in
;
and Ilir son ..I I'nssanniia. Kfilidasa' pla) d.-.ils with an liileeliire and s-
iilplnn- ;
Aynrv.di ; \i: .n.l\.i
il,, ,,,.,,, i ., .,- ,i Malavika and ALMiiimna. (treatment ol poison'; li-om Snak, iiiie ,-le.) ihe princi- ;
\i.\l\IUKII \n Va.ra.
\
ples of die drama (N.il.ikal and ol her allied arls ;
oi, tins
| i ||,. ,1. ,1 I. i \ i .nil in 'i
ipeei
Ii and .ill alaml. MM .
m general ; and
Oltlei x .
,,, Hi. ilnn. i -M.iii. i- Kasyapa -Smapadma- phy.siolony of the human bodv. All these
Agiiininkh.i. trealed in a detailed and ifi inner.
Until. Surap.idm.'. married Maya's daughter
and
AGNll'UK^A. A KiiiK of ihe Solar dynasty (Surya-
as their son. In ilu- li.uil. IH-I
Aniinuukli.i was
I' n "
1
\ .'lii-'.al .
m IHW.T world) I
i '
lollouin
Tliev in the lirahm.t - Mariei - Rasyapa-
m.niied his danv.hlcr. Sin. r.
:
i. li.i.l \X
ls.i-.\apa Vivasvan -
VaiVASVatamanU Iksvaku-Yikuksi -
Sas.ida-
children ; the]
wew : Surapadma, Smiink.i. Sunii.,
K iknlsih.i. \iunas -
l'ui.iii|:
Comnkli.i. .ind Aj.mmkhi. Suia- lYlliiil.V'.van-l'ra.sen.ijil-
i
v.ikir.i. r.n.iUasilia,
Yuvaniivan - Mandliala - I'uriikuisa - 'J'ra.sadasyu-
padiu.i
in. ii i H -d Maya's daughter. Agnimukhl wai <>m-
ol' tin -n lour sons, llic oilier llucc beim; ithann ;,>|,,i,
Anaranya - AryaivS Vt umanas-Sutanva-Traiyyaru^a-
Sai\ a\ raia Tri-'..n'iku l.i;-r'.e.iudra
-
Koliii.is\ a- larila- -
I'm. in. -iv i, vi\id descrip- (lurtcil- Snd,-\ a-lih.n nka-H.ihuka - Sa .in.nijas-
In llu- Sk.ind.i i 111, .1 ,
g.iudli.iiN.i
Snl n. .ind C.uulriku I'rll in 1-ivr with him Adili-Nisadha-Nahhas-l'iindanka-K.:.;, -madhauv.-. -I '.
Susv.ira, i
.nul ii-ipu-st.-il
to marry tlu-m. strict
Kli.iH.ina
- N'idhrii - liraiu an ibha - I'usya- Dhriiva -
V,m|>.i Was
1
Hi. ilnn n .111:1 olli-udi-d li\ ic.|n.-sl .nul
lliis
soli, ciii Mil il in .ind linncd tin-in into lirnds. Veda-' Sudaiiana - Agnipurna. A^nipurna had l\\-o deseen-
and souidn a.K l.iua:..i d.mls Sij;lira and Maru and with ihein th.
iiidln |>ili.
d tin -in ill.- tee l
iag
\ .nil- a came lo
as to hou ili.iM- iinlorlunati- maidens could In- ivd-vnit d aj^ end.
lioiu ilu- curMi \.i-ording to I ad\ i. -
the ACNISAMUHAN A. A Ki,,- ofthe Solar dynaity.
li\, us li.itheil in llu- I'oK lake ol l'i a\ .i|;alirlha
in. lid, (.'<-/(,-<j/i).i.M-. \'isnu-l5rahm.. M.nui Is i- yapa-N iva.sv.1n -
Hlld regained their .ni;;in.il i'orins. Then .ilieyin-; llic Iksvaku - Niini-Janaka - Nan-b. -
Vaivasvatamanu
inslnu lions -,l sai--e l.oiu.isa Ai;nipa married all these dliaiia-Snkeln l>e\. iiai.' Hrhaddhria Mah.ivira-1 )hrti- -
h\e j'.indh.nx.i maidens. I'2H and 129, Ki-ln-I l.n\ as\a Ni.n n-l'iatisN aka - Kraluralha - 1>. \.<
(Chapters
Ull.ii ikh.i ,l.i. r.ulin.i I'm. in. 0. midlia-\'idhrta-Mah.idhrti-Krliraia-Mah.i:oni i-S\arna-
AGNIPRAVBSAfM). Batenng iin-- in the Ynddh.i- romaprastharoma Snad!i\aja Knrndluaja Dliarma- - -
it\ had lieen I, .ted and proved,. So In-decided to There au- no oilier rel'eivnees to this Isini; ol' the S ilar
her pm
Ivs.ina). Sil.i shed tears at th<- in the I'm-'mas.
v
dynaslN
ilionxhl thai her luisliand donliled her .h.isin\. \IINISAR\I A. (Sec ihe won! \ IDYUDDYOTA) .
Laksmana. ai Kama's hiddi; le a pyre. SH.I AdNlSIKHA. Father of Varanu i. He is also known by
the name Somad.uta. (Kathisaritslgara-Kath&pltha-
jumped into il alter ,-.i\ iu>-, to die gods. She remained |
me., orehed liy the lire .Mid Rftma gladly received her lambaka-l'aran.va I. See also llie wotd (U^' \\'AI< \'
on, e more as his \\ il'c. (\ONlSlRATlRTOA, A holy place on liu- plains ofthe
,\(;\ir Atacredplace(Pur>y . river, N'amuna. At ;jmi;.'s brolher, Sahade\a, pcrlonni-il
011 the banks of llic river Narmada. Main scholars i \.i '..i
.11M.l> X'ana I'arva, ChaptCl 90).
I In; plaee. , .
, i
living with his wile, Ahalyfi. Indra fell in love with the
Vi:;nn-Svayambhuvamanu - Uttanapada-Dhruva-Srsti- beautiful Ahalya and while the sage bathing wa:. OUI lor
Ripu-Caksusamanu-Agnistu. Indra entered tl. la in (In ol the sage
2) Ilirth. '1'en good sons were born to Manu by his wife,
I
himself and took bed with her. But before Indra could
Nadvala a-id Agnistu was one of them. The otln r nine
get out Gautama himself came to tin a::/ama arid en-
sons were: Oru, Puru, Satadyumna, Tapasvi, Satyavak,
raged at what he saw, cursed them both. India w.
Kavi, Aliratra, Sudyumna and Atimanyu. (Agni lose his testicles and Ahalya was to turn inlo a stone.
Purana, Chapter 18) .
But taking pity on her the sage declared that she would
AGNISVATTA. One of the seven Pi trs. 'lln other six
take her original form the moment Rama of trcta
Pitrs arc :
Garhapatya, Somapa, Eka6rga,
Vairaja,
yuga
came to that place and touched the MOD. by hi foot. ,
AGRASANDHANl. The name of the book which Yama lie to her husband.
(Kathasaritsagara, Lavanakalam-
'the God of Death Kala) keeps in which all the baka).
virtuous and sinful actions of men arc recorded. 3) How Ahalya happened to bring u/j Ihe mighty monkeys, Bali
AGRAYAtfl. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra. He and Sugriva. Once Aruna, the charioteer of SQrya (the
is also known
by the name, Anuyayl. (M.B., Adi Parva, Sun) went to devaloka to sec the dance of the celestial
Chapter 116, Verse 11). maidens there. Since there was no admission to the <!:
AHA I. One of the astavasus. His father was Dharma for men Aruna disguised himself as Amu
and mother, Ratidcvi. (M.B., Adi Parva, Slokas 1 7 to admission; seeing the beautiful form of ArunidevI Indra
fell in love with her and that night a child was born to
20, Chapter 66).
AHA II (AIIAIJ). A sacred pond. If one bathes in it he Indra by her. On the advice of Indra ArunidevI took the
child to Ahalya before daybreak and left it there to be
will go to the land of the Sun.
(M.B., Vana Parva,
Sloka 100, Chapter 83). looked after by her. It was this child which later on
AHA III. One born of the dynasty of demons (asura- became the famous Bali.
Aruna went a bit late that morning to his master, the
vamSa). (Sec under Heti, the genealogy chart of the Sun. The latter wanted an explanation and Aruna told
demon dynasty). him what had happened. The Sun then asked Aruna to
AHARA. A son born of Danu to Kasyapa. (M.B., Adi become ArunidevI again and seeing ihe enchanting figure
Parva, Sloka 25, Chapter 65). the Sun also got a child of her. Tin hild also was taken ,
<
AHALYA. Turned into stone by the curse of her hus- to Ahalya and it was this child ihai lai< r on beramc the
band, Gautama. Ahalya was a princess of the Puru famous Sugriva.
dynasty. AHALYAlIRADA(M). A sacred pond in the tapovana
AHARA 18 AIRAVATA I
AHICCHATRA. This was the capital of the stete Ahi- Visnu Brahma - Kaiyapa - Bhadramata-Iravatl-Aira-
-
rchatra which Drona got from Drupada, the King of vata. Kasyapa married Daksa's daughter, Krodhavasa
Pancala. who bore him ten daughters. They were Mrgi, Mrga-
:
AHICCHATRA (M). A state under the sovereignty of manda, Harl, Bhadramata, Matarigl, Sarduli, Sveta,
King Pancala. On the completion of his studies under Surabhi, Sarasa and Kadru. Of these Bhadramata had
Drona Arjuna brought before his preceptor King Dru- a daughter named IravaiT and Airavata was her son.
pada as a captive in discharge of the duty he owed to Airavata was not human in shape; he was a large ele-
him as his master. Drupada then gave the state_ of
phant. (See Sarga 14, Aranyakanda, Ramayana).
Ahicchatra to Drona and got hi.s release. (M.B., Adi
2) Indra? s Vahana. I ndra made Airavata his conveyance
Parva, Slokas 73 to '76, Chapter 137).
(vahana). Indra was Kaiyapa's son by Aditi. Airavata
AHIldSA. Non-injury. There are opinions both in favour also was descended from Kasyapa. So Indra took
of and against Ahimsa in the puranas. Sukracarya ex- Airavata as his vahana.
tol.' the importance of Ahimsa to the asuras (demons)
thus :
3) Airavata caused the churning of the ocean of Milk. There
is a story of how Airavata was responsible for the churn-
Bho Devaripavah satyam
!
The curse began to operate and the gods lost their peren-
"Why should I mind the innumerable killings going on nial youth. The gods then befriended the Asuras and
unnoticed in this world full of life. People of old speak
O with their help they churned the ocean of Milk. They
very sacredly about Ahirhsa. But best of brahmins,
who can live in this world without injury to another got the nectar (Amrtam), drank it and regained their
life ?" (M.B., Aranya Parva, Slokas 32 & 33, Chapter youth. (See under the word AMRTAM).
208). 4) There is another story about Airavata A story of
AHIRATHA. A King of the Puru dynasty. (See under .
how he also rose out of the ocean of Milk. It is said that
Puiu vamsa). when the devas and asuras churned the ocean of Milk,
AHIRBUDHNYA. One of the sons of Visvakarma. Five Airavata also came up along with the other good things.
sons and one daughter were born to Visvakarma of his This story is narrated in the 18th Chapter of Adi Parva
wife Surabhi. They were Ajaikapat, Ahirbudhnya, of the Mahabharata. The explanation given is that when
Tvasfa, Rudra, Barhismati and Samjna. (See under Durvasas cursed the gods, Airavata was oppressed with
genealogy of Visvakarma). a sense of guilt because he was responsible for the curse.
AHITA. A river of ancient Bharata. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, So he took refuge in the ocean of Milk and there started
Sloka 21, Chapter 9). propitiating Mahavisnu. There is however no warrant
AHORATRA(M). (See under Kalamana). for such an explanation in the puranas. But the expla-
AHOVIRA. A sage who adhered strictly to the injunctions nation sounds plausible because it explains the absence
associated with the Yanaprastha stage of life. (M.B., of Airavata during the interval between Durvasas's
Sand Paiva, Sloka 17, Chapter 144). curse and the churning of the sea. Air?.vata is represented
AI ($). This diphthong means a female sage (yogini) as a white elephant. It is probable that he became white
according to the Agni Purana (Chapter 348 of Agni after his long residence in the ocean of Milk. This lends
Purana). some additional plausibility to the above explanation.
AIKSVAKI. Wife of Suhotra who was a son of Emperor, 5) Airavata, the Lord of the elephant. In the Visnu Purana
Bhumanyu. Suhotra had three sons by Aiksvaki. They we are told how Airavata was made the chief of all ele-
were Ajamldha, Sumldha and Purumidha. (See Chapter phants. When the Maharsis had crowned Prthu as the
94 of Adi Parva of the M.B.). sovereign King, Brahma gave new posts of honour to
AILA I. Son of Ila; Pururavas. (See under Ila). many of the devas. He made SOMA (Moon) the lord
AILA II. A member of the court of Yamaraja. (Sec loka of the Stars and Planets, of Brahmins, Yajfias and herbs.
16, Chapter 8, Sabha Parva, M.B.). In Sloka 65, Chap- Kubera was made the overlord of all Kings; Varuna
ter 115 of Anusasana Parva, it is said that he never ate was made the master of the seas and all water; Visnu,
non-vegetarian food in his life. the lord of the Adityas and Pavaka (Fire) the lord of
AIRAVATA II 19 AJAIKAPAT II
the Vasus. Along with these Brahma made Airavata the medhya at Kotitirtha and there he made a learned
lord of all elephants. (Chapter 22, Visnu Purana). speech on the Vedas. Harimedhya
was so pleased with
6 ) The breaking of Airavata' s tusks. There is a story oi'how him that he gave his daughter in marriage to him.
the tusks of Airavata were broken narrated in the Asura- (See Skanda Purana, Chapters 1, 2 and 42).
kanda of Skanda Purana. Once an asura (demon) AJA I. A king of the Solar dynasty.
named Surapadma attacked devaloka. A fierce battle 1) Genealogy. PVom Visnu were descended in order:
Brahma, Marici-Kasyapa-Vivasvan Vaivasvata
- - Iks-
ensued between the gods and asuras. In the course of
- Kukutstha -Anenas-
this battle, Jayanta, Indra's son, was hit by an arrow vaku-Vikuksi Sa^ada Puranjaya
- -
and at once he fell dead. Enraged by this Airavata PrthulaJva - Prasenajit - YuvanaSva - Mandhata - Puru-
rushed at Surapadma's chariot and shattered it to kutsa-Trasadasyu - Anaranya - AryasVa Vasumanas- -
pieces. Airavata then attacked Surapadma who broke his Sudhanva - Traiyaruna - Satyavrata - TrisaiVku - Haris'-
tusks and hurled him down to the earth. Airavata lay candra - Rohitasva - Harita - Cuncu - Sudeva - Bharuka-
paralysed for a long time; then he got up, retired to a Bahuka - Sagara - Asamanjas - Arhsuman - Dilipa -
forest arid prayed to Lord Siva. With the grace of Siva Bhaglratha
-
Srutanabha - Sindhudvlpa - Ayutayus -
Airavata regained his lost tusks and was able to return -
Sarvakama - Sudasana - Mitrasakha - Kal-
Rtuparna
-
to devaloka. masapada -
Axmaka -
Mulaka -
Dilipa - Dirghabahu
-
7) Other details about Airavata. (1) There is a belief Raghu Aja -
Aja's son Dasaratha-Dasaratha's son, Sri
that Airavata is one of the eight elephants guarding the Rama.
eight zones of the universe. These eight elephants are M.B., Anu::asana Parva, Chapter 115, Verse 75 says that
called the Astadiggajas. Airavata is supposed to guard Aja never used to take meat.
the eastern zone. (Chapter 66, Adi Parva, Maha- AJA II. Among the different kinds of Rsis mentioned by
bharata ) .
Yudhisthira, we find a class of Rsis called Ajas. (M.B.,
(2 ) Airavata and three other diggajas are supposed to Santi Parva, Chapter 26). These Ajas had attained
reside in Puskara Island. (Chapter 12, Bhisma Parva, Heaven by Svadhyaya (self discipline) alone.
M.B.). AJA III. King Jahnu had a son named Aja. Uuka was
AIRAVATA II. Name of a serpent born to Kasyapa and the son of this Aja. King Ugika prayed to Indra for a
his wife Kadru. This is mentioned in Sloka 5, Chapter son. Indra himselfwas born as the son of IKika assum-
35, Adi Parva of the Mahabharata. Arjuna's father-in- ing the name Gadhi. Satyavati was born as the daughter
law and Ulupi's father, Kauravya belonged to the family of Gadhi. She was married to Rcika. Para:'urama's
of this serpent. (See Sloka 18, Chapter 213, Adi father, Jamadagni was the son of Rcika. (M.B., Sand
Parva ) .
Parva, Chapter 49).
AIRAVATA. An asura who was killed by Sri Krsna. AJA IV. By the grace of Siva Surabhl was able to purify
(See Chapter 38, Sabha Parva, Mahabharata). herself by penance. She then gave birth to Aja, Ekapat,
AIRAVATAGHATTA. Name of a place near the sea- Ahirbudhnya, Tvasta and Rudra (Agni Purana, Chap- .
of Daksa and had two sons by her. They were Ajaka Marlci-Kasyapa-Ajamukhl.
and Vrsaparva. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 2) Birth Long ago in the battle between Devas and
24; Chapter 67, Verse 16). Asuras one of the routed Asuras had fled to Patala (Hell).
AJAKASVA. A king of the Puru Vamsa. The mighty Surasa was his daughter. Brahma's grandson, Kasyapa
Jahnu was born to Ajamldha by his wife Kesini. Two married Surasa. She gave birth to six children Surapa-
sons, Ajakasva and BalakasVa were born to Jahnu. dma, Simhika, Simhavaktra, Tarakasura, Ajamukhl and
Kusika is the son of Balakasva. Kusika is the grand- Gomukha. The Asura woman Ajamukhl is one of them.
father of ViSvamitra. For genealogy see Puru Vamia. 3) Chief events. (1) Marriage with Durvasas. Once
(Agni Purana, Chapter 278). Surapadma called his two brothers, Simhavaktra and
AJAMlDHA I. A famous king of the Puru Vamsa. Tarakasura and ordered them to set up two cities, one
1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in this order: north and the other to the south, of Mahameru.
to the
Brahma - Atri - Candra - Budha - Pururavas - Ayus - In obedience to his elder brother, Tarakasura started
Nahusa - Yayati - Puru - Janamejaya - Pracinva-Mana- with one half of the army and set up a city to the south
syu - Vltabhaya - Sundu - Bahuvidha - Samyati - Raho- of Mahameru. That city was named Mayapura. Simha-
vadi - Bhadras"va - Matmara - Santurodha - Dusyanta - vaktra lived in the city on the northern side of Maha-
Bharata-Brhatksetra-Hasti-Ajamidha. meru. Their sister Ajamukhl went about enticing men to
2) Birth. Several dynasties like Yadu Vamsa, Puru satisfy her lustful passion. Once, in the course of her
Varh;;a etc. take their origin from Yayati. Dusyanta be- wanderings, she met Durvasas in the Himalayan valley.
longs to that dynasty. King Bharata was born as Dus- They fell in love and even married. The two Asuras,
yanta's son by Sakuntala. Suhotra - Suhota - Gaya - Ilvala and Vatapi were born from their union. They
Gardda-Suketu and Brhatksetra were Bharata's sons. insisted on sharing their father's achievements between
Bfhatksetra had four children, who were :
Nara, Maha- them. Durvasas cursed them that they would die at the
vira, Garga and Hasti. OfthemHasti had three sons: hands of Agastya. (Skanda Purana, Asura Kanda).
Purumldha, Ajamldha and Dvimidha. ( 2 )
The cutting off of Ajamukhfs hands. While wandering
3) Other details. Ajamldha had three queens DhQ- with her lustful passion, Ajamukhl once went to the Siva
mini, Nil! and Kesini. Of them, Dhumini had a son, temple at Kasi. There she happened to meet Indra's
Rksa and Nili's son was Dusyanta (This was not Sakun- wife, Sacldevl. In order to give her to her brother,
tala's husband, Dusyanta) and KeSini's sons were Jahnu, Surapadma, Ajamukhl caught hold of Sacidevi. Sacl-
Praja and Rupina. Paramesti was another name of devi screamed aloud. Suddenly Siva appeared there
Kesini. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verses 30-32; with His sword. Even then Ajamukhl refused to release
Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 2). Sacldevl. Siva rescued Indrani (Sacldevi) by cutting off
AJAMlDHA II. We come across another Ajamldha also Ajamukhi's hands. Hearing this, Surapadma sent his
in the Lunar Dynasty. He married Sudeva, daughter army and imprisoned the Devas. The imprisoend
of Vikantha a King of the Lunar Dynasty. This Aja- ,
Brahma at the instance of Surapadma, restored Aja-
mldha had 2400 children by his four wives, Kaikey I, mukhi's hands. Surapadma's son, Bhanugopa fought
Gandharl, Visala and Rksa. Of them Samvarana against the remaining Devas and defeated them. (Skanda
-
married Tapati, the daughter of Vivasvan. See TapatI Purana, Asura Kanda).
Samvarana. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verses AJAMUKHl. See AJAMUKHl.
35-37). AJANABHA. A mountain. A reference to this is seen in
AJAMILA. Ajamila's story is given in the Bhagavata as the M.B., Anusasane Parva, Chapter 165, Verse 32.
an example to illustrate that even the most wicked person Another name, Ajanabha Varsa for the territory ruled
can attain Visnupada (Salvation). is also found in Bhagavata, Fifth
over by Ajanabha,
Ajamila was a Brahmin who was once sent by his Skandha, Chapter 1.
father to the jungle to fetch samit (leaves and twigs AJARA. Tapantaka, the minister of King Vatsa, told
to make the sacrificial fire).
Ajamila met there a beauti- him the story of a man named Ajara to illustrate the law
ful Siidra woman. Forgetting everything, the Brahmin that all people will have to suffer the consequences of
made her his wife and children were born to them. their actions in a previous birth. The story is given be-
When that Brahmin, who was the very embodiment of low:
all vices, reached the age of eightyseven, the time came Once upon a time, there lived a King named Vinayasila
for him to die. Yamadutas (Agents of Yama the god in Vilasapura, in the city of Srikanthanagarl. After
of death) had arrived. The frightened Ajamila shouted some years, the King was affected by wrinkles of old age.
loudly the name of his eldsst son, 'Narayana'. Hearing A physician named Tarunacandra came to the palace to
the repeated call of his name 'Narayana', Mahavisnu cure the King of his wrinkles. "The King should remain
appeared there and dismissed the agents of Yama. From alone in the interior of the earth for full eight months.
that day Ajamila became a devotee of Visnu and did He has to use a medicine while remaining there. It
penance on the bank of the Ganges and after some years should not even be seen by anyone else. I myself am to
attained salvation. (Bhagavata, Astama Skandha, administer the medicine" This was the physician's
Chapter 1). prescription. The King agreed. Accordingly the King
AJAVINDU 21 AKRTAVRAISA
and the physician spent six months in the interior of the order: Visnu - Brahma - Heti - VidyukeSa - SukeSa
earth. After that the physician, after a search, found a Sumali-Akampana.
man who exactly resembled the King and brought him 2) Other details. Sumali married Ketumati and got
to the interior of the earth. After two more months, fourteen children. They were 1 ) Prahasta 2) Akampana
the physician murdered the King and came out with the 3) Vikata 4) Kalakamukha 5) Dhumraksa 6) Danda
new man. The people welcomed him with honour as 7) Suparwa 8) Samhrada 9) Prakvata 10) Bhasakarna
the King who was cured of his wrinkles. This man was 11) Veka 12) Puspotkata 13) Kaikasi and 14) Kumbhi-
Ajara. After some time, the physician approached nadi. Of these the last four are daughters. Prahasta was
Ajara for his reward. Ajara said: "It is by my Karma- one of the ministers of Ravana. The thirteenth child
phala (consequence of my actions in my previous birth) Kaikasi was married to Visravas, son of Pulastya.
that I have become King. In my previous birth I re- Visravas got three sons and a daughter. They were
nounced my body after doing penance. According to the Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Vibhlsana and Surpanakha.
boon which God gave me on that occasion, I have be- It was Akampana who informed Ravana that Rama and
come King in my present birth". The physician returned Laksmana had killed his three allies, Khara, Dusana
empty-handed. (Kathasaritsagare, Ratnaprabha- and Trisiras (Aranya Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana).
lariibaka, 6th Taranga). 3) Death. Akampana fought a fierce battle with
AJAVINDU. He was
a King, born in the dynasty of the Hanuman and in the end Hanuman plucked a big tree
Suviras. (M.B., Udyoga Parva, Chapter 74, Verse 14). and hit Akampana on the head with it and killed him.
AJEYA. He was a King in ancient Bharata. Ajeya's name (Sarga 56, Yuddha Kanda of Ramayana)
is found among the names of the Kings mentioned
by AKAMPANA II. He was a king who lived in the Krta-
Sanjaya to Dhftarastra. All these Kings were mighty yuga. He had a son named Hari who was a fierce fighter.
and generous rulers who were the recipients of divine He was killed in a battle and the King became much
arrows. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 1, Verse 234). depressed. Narada consoled him with other stones and
AJIGARTA (RClKA). He was a greedy Brahmin. (See Vyasa told this story to Dharmaputra when he found
RClKA I the latter greatly dejected and gloomy after the great
King Hariscandra who was distressed by having no battle was over. (Chapter 52, Drona Parva of M.B.
children, propitiated god Varuna. Varuna blessed also makes mention of
Akampana).
him saying that a son would be born to him. But AKARKKARA. A serpent, son of Kadru.
the condition was that the child should be sacrificed 1
) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in this order :
He continued: "Why should you be in this wretched (gloka 21, Chapter 95, Adi Parva, M.B.).
state of poverty and misery ? Sell one of your sons and AKRTA&RAMA. He is one of the few sannyasins who
you will get 100 cows as the price". The minister's have gone to heaven after completing the fourth a^rama
words and the price offered for the son made a deep of life namely, Sannyasa. The Kaurava-Pandava
impression on the Brahmin's mind. He thought: battle was over. As the eldest, Dharmaputra performed
"It is impossible for me to earn 100 cows. Even if it were obsequies to all those of his kith and kin dead in the war.
possible how long would it take ? If I sell him I shall He was then met by many sages including Vyasa and
get hundred cows at once. What a lucky chance The ! Narada who comforted him in his bereavement. When
loss of a son is nothing." So thinking, he sold his son Dharmaputra later met Bhisma the latter among many
Sunassepha. (For the rest of the story, see the word other stories told him the story of Akrtasrama also.
"Sunassepha". Devi Bhagavata, Skandhas 7, 8). (Sloka 17, Chapter 244, Santi Parva, M.B.).
AJINA. 1 ) Genealogy From Visnu, Brahma, Marici, AKRTAVRANA.
Kasyapa, Vaivasvata, Uttanapada, Dhruva, Srsti, Ripu, 1
) General information. Akrtavrana was a great sage of
Caksusa, Manu, Uru, Ariiga, Vena, Prthu, Antardhana, erudition and was a disciple of Paraiurama. He is ex-
Havirdhana and Ajina. tolled in the Puranas and it is said that Suta who recited
2) Birth. Prthu had two sons, Antardhana and Vadi. first the story of Mahabharata to an assembly of sages in
Antardhana had a son, Havirdhana, by Sikhandini. the forest of Naimisa was a disciple of Akrtavrana.
Dhisana, who was born in the Agnikula became Havir- (Skandha 12 of Bhagavata).
dhana's wife. Sixsons were born to them, Pracina- 2) How he became a disciple of Parasurama. Para-urama
barhis, Sukra,Gaya, Krsna, Vraja and Ajina. (Visnu was returning after obtaining arrows from Lord Siva
Purana, Part I, Chapter 14). after pleasing him by fierce penance- He was walking
AJISAKA. (See theword (SAKAVARSA). briskly through the dense forests anxious to be at the side
AJODARA. There was an individual called Ajodara in of his preceptors to get their blessings. As he passed a
Skanda's army. (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 60 ) .
grea t cave he heard a moan and on getting to the site
AKAMPANA. (A mighty warrior among the demons). of the sound found a brahmin boy being attacked by a
1
) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following tiger. The tiger immediately fell dead by an arrow from
AKRURA 22 AKSAHRDAYA
Paras urania. Lo !^ the tiger turned into a gandharva 2) Birth. Svaphalka of the Vrsni dynasty married
freed now irom a curse becau.se ui which he was lor years Naudini, daughter of the King of Kasi and Akrura was
living as a tiger. The gandharva bowed down respect- hum to them. Akrura was an uncle <;!'SrT Krsna but is
fully and thanked the sage for giving him relief ;>nd left respected more as a worshipper of Krsna.
the place. The brahmin boy fell down at the led oi 3) Otlur details. (1 )He became famous as a commander
Para'.urama and said, "Great Lord, becau'se of you I of the Yadavaormy. (Chapter 220 of Adi Parva, M.B.).
haw now become Akrtavrana meaning one who has not (2) Akrura was also present lor the Svayamvara (wed-
received any wound. =
(Akrta not having secured. ding) of Pancali. (Sloka 18, Chapter 185 of Adi Parva,
Vraiia= wound). I shall, thcrelbre, be your djsciple for- M.B.).
ever hereafter". 1'Vom that day onwards he never left (3) At the time of Arjuna's eloping with Subhadra, a
Parasurama but followed him as his disciple. grand festival was going on in the Raivata mountain and
3) Other details. (
1
) In the story
of Mahabharata we Akrura was partaking in the same. (Sloka 10, Chapter
find Akrtavrana in several different contexts appearing 218, Adi Parva, M.B.).
on behalf of Parasurama- It was Akrtavrana who told (4) Akrura accompanied Krsna with the dowry in-
Dharmaputra the life and exploits of Parasurama during tended for Subhadra. (Sloka 29, Chapter 220, Adi Parva,
the exile of the Pandavas in the forests. (Chapters 1 15 to M.B.).
117, Vana Parva,' M.B.). (5) Akrura came to the country called Upaplavya for
(2) In Chapter 83 of Udyoga Parva we read about attending the marriage of Abhimanyu. (Sloka 22, Chap-
Akrtavrana meeting Sri Krsna while the latter was going ter 72, Virata Parva, M.B.).
to Hastinapura. (6) Akiura and Ahuka always quarrelled with each
(3) In Chapter 173 of Udyoga Parva we read about other both alleging that the other sided with the opposite
Akrtavrana detailing the history of the Kaurava dynasty camp of Krsna. (Slokas 9 to 11, Chapter 81, S~anti
to Duryodhana. Parva, M.B.j.
(4) Akrtavrana has played a very important role in the (7) Kariisa planning to kill Balabhadrarama and SrT
story of Amba, daughter King of Kail. Amba
of the Krsna conducted a festival called Capapuja (worship
along with her two sisters, Ambika and Ambalika, were of the bow). It was Akrura whom Kamsa sent to bring
brought down to Hastinapura by Bhlsma for his brother Balabhadra and Krsna for the festival. Akrura under-
Vicitravlrya to marry. But on knowing that Amba had stood the plot, informed Krsna about it and also advised
mentally chosen Salva as her husband, Bhlsma allowed Krsna to kill Kamsa. (Da.:ama Skandha, Bhagavata).
her to go back to Salva. But on her return to Salva he (8) Akrura fought against Jarasandha on the side of
refused to accept her and she came back to Hastinapura. Krsna. (Dasama Skandha).
BhTsma then requested Vicitravlrya to accept her as (9) On another occasion Krsna, Balabhadra and Ud-
his wife whicji, unfortunately, Vicitravlrya also refused dhava sent Akrura to Hastinapura to get tidings about
to do- Amba then turned to Bhlsma and besought him Kunti and the Pandavas. Akrura met his sister KuntI
to marry her which, much to his regret, he could not do and talked to her for a long time and also met Dhrta-
because of his vow of celibacy. Thus forsaken by all, rastra and talked to him after which he returned to
all her sweetness turned into bitter hatred towards Dvaraka. (Dasama Skandha).
Bhlsma and she remained alive thereafter only to kill (10) Akrura wentto Hastinapura as a messenger from
BhTsma- But even the foremost of warriors were not SrT Krsna. (Refer sub-para 3 of para 13 under Krsna).
willing to antagonise Bhlsma and so her appeal to help 4) Domestic life. Akrura married Sutanu, daughter of
was not heeded by any. It was then that Hotravaha her Ahuka and got two sons named Devaka and Upadevaka.
grandfather on the maternal side met her and directed (Navama Skandha )
.
her to Parasurama. When she went to Para-' urama it 5 ) Syamantaka and Akrura. Refer para 2 under the word
was Akrtavrana who received her and on hearing her Krtavarma.
sorrowful tale encouraged her to seek vengeance on AKSA I. (Aksakumara).
BhTsma. Again it was he who persuaded Parasurama to 1 j Genealogy. Descended in order from Visnu as
champion her cause and go for a fight against Bhisma. follows: Brahma -
Pulastya
- Visravas - Ravana - Aksa.
During the fight Akrtavrana acted as charioteer to (Uttararamayana ).
Parasurama. (Sloka 9, Chapter 179, Udyoga Parva, Birth. Three sons were born to Ravana, King of the
2)
M.B.). demons, by his wife Mandodarl. They were Megha-
Akrtavrana was one of the many sages who were
(5) nada, Atikaya and Aksakumara. Aksakumara was a
lying on a bed of arrows during the great Kuruksetra redoubtable hero and a fierce fighter but was killed by
battle. (S"loka 8, Chapter 26, Anu:;asana Parva, M.B.).
Haniiman in Lanka. (Sarga 47, Sundara Kanda,
AKRORA. Valmiki Ramayana).
1
Gmtalogy. Descended from Visnu in the following
)
order Brahma-Atri-Candra-Budha- Pururavas - Ayus-
:
AKSA II. We find another warrior of this name among
the soldiers who came to help Skanda in the Kaurava-
.
Nahusa-Yayati-Yadu (Chapter XII of Agni Purana).
Pandava battle. (Sloka 58, Chapter 45, Salya Parva,
Descending from Yadu in order were Sahasrajit-Satajit-
Hehaya-Dharma-Kunti-Bhadrasena-Dhanaka-Krtavlrya M.B.).
KarttavTryarjuna - Madhu - Vrsni (Chapter XXIII of AKSAHRDAYA. A sacred chant or mantra. When
Navama Skandha, Bhagavata). The Vrsni dynasty be- Nala was roaming about in the forests after his separa-
gins and from Vrsni in order descended Yudhajit-Sini- tion from Damayanti he happened to save the cobra,
Satyaka-Satyaki-Jaya-Kuni-Anamitra-Prsni-vaphalka
- Karkotaka, from a wild fire. But in return the snake bit
Akrura. (Chapter XXIV of Navama Skandha, Bhaga- him and made him as black as clouds. He then advised
vata ) . Nala to go to the palace of King Rtuparna where the
AKSAMALA (ARUNDHATl) AKUPARA
cobra said, Nala would be taught the secret mantra of faithfullyfollowed them to the forest. Dharmaputra
Aksahrdaya by the King. then prayed to the God, Surya and he
appeared before
One who knows this sacred chant can find out all secrets him and gave him this Aksaya Patra
(Ak?aya=never
of a game of dice and can count within no time the getting empty, Patra =pot). Everyday this pot never
number of leaves, fruits and flowers on a tree. Nala went got empty till the meals of Pancall were over. (Chapter
to Rtuparna and stayed with him. While living there a 3, Vana Parva, M.B.). See ako under Duryodhana;
brahmin named Sudeva came to Rtuparna and informed Para 12.
him that Damayantl was going to marry again. Rtuparna AKSAYAVATA. A sacred lake. When the Pandavas
immediately started for Vidarbha taking Nala as his during their exile went to Pulastyairama sage Pulaslya
charioteer. The chariot driven by Nala flew like a wind gave a description of all the sacred lakes in India. He
and on the way when Rtuparna's handkerchief fell down says, "After reaching Markandeya lake you should visit
and he requested Nala to stop the chariot. Nala informed the meeting place of the rivers Gariga and Gomatl.
him that by the time the request was made they had Then when you reach Gaya you will find there a lake
travelled already one yojana. As they proceeded they called Aksayavata. If you bathe in that lake you will
saw a huge tree full of leaves and fruits. Rtuparna at a get salvation". In the Navama Skandha of Devi Bhtga-
glance told Nala that the tree contained five crores of vata you find the following about Aksayavata:
"Pu;pa-
leaves and two thousand nine hundred and five fruits. bhadra is one of the famous sacred rivers in India. This
Nala was surprised. Then they understood that Nala river starts from the Himalayas with the name Saravatl
was able to drive the chariot so quickly because of his and flowing for 500
yojanas (One yojanam is equal
knowledge of the sacred chant Asvahfdaya and that to about 8 miles) on the left side of river Gomatl reaches
Rtuparna was able to count the leaves and fruits be- the western ocean. There is an airama called
Akfaya-
cause of his knowledge of the chant Aksahrtlaya. They vata on the shores of this beautiful river which always
taught each other the sacred mantras. Because of this carries crystal clear water. The asrama got that name
Aksahfdaya Nala was able to win the game of dice the because of a big banyan tree standing near it. Kapila,
second time and regain his kingdom. (Chapter 72, the great sage, did penance sitting here for a long time.
Vana Parva). Lord Siva, Bhadrakall and Skanda used to come and
AKSAMALA (ARUNDHATl). See under Arundhatl. sit underneath this banyan tree.
AKSAPRAPATANA. A particular place in the country AKSIIiTA. He was the son of Viisvamitra. (Sloka 50,
of Anartta. At this place Sri Krsna killed two demons Chapter 14, Anusasana Parva. For more details see
named Gopati and Talaketu. (Sloka 29, Chapter 38, under Visvamitra).
Sabha Parva, M.B.). AKUPARA.
AKSARAPURUSA. When all was set for the Kuru- 1
)
General information. There is a lake in the Hima-
ksetra battle Arjuna showed signs of weakness and hesi- layas called Indradyumna. Akupara is a tortoise living
tated to proceed for a fight. Sri Krsna then through the in it. There is also a statement that this is the Adi-
famous Gita enunciated a philosophy of life during the Kurma (second of the ten incarnations of God). A
course of which he speaks about the two purusas, Ksara description of Akupara is found in Chapter 199 of Vana
and Aksara. All that we see in this world and enjoy are Parva in Mahabharata.
Ksara and the power behind all of them is Aksara. 2) Cirafijivi (One who has no death}. When the Panda-
God is one who transcends the aspects Ksara and Aksara vas were in exile in the forests sage Markandeya tells
and stands as the root cause of all life. (Slokas 16 to 19, many stories toDharmaputra to console him in his sad
Chapter 39_, Bhlsma Parva, M.B. ) plight. The Pandavas asked Markandeya whether he
AKSASUTRA. She was the wife of the sage Apastamba. knew of anybody living before him. Then the sage said,
She was a very chaste woman. (See under Apastamba). "In times of old Indradyumna an ascetic King (Rajarsi)
AKSAUHINl. A big division of an army. It is described fell down from heaven when he fell short of his accumu-
in the Verses 19 to 26 in the 2nd
Chapter of Adi Parva of lated 'Punya'. Sorrowfully he came to me and asked me
the Malayalam Mahabharata. It says thus One chariot,
: whether I knew him. I replied in the negative adding
one elephant, three horses and five soldiers constitute that perhaps Pravlrakarna an owl living on the top of
what is termed a Patti. Three such pattis make one Sena- the Himalayas might know him since he was older
mukha and three such scnamukhas make one Gulma. than me- At once Indradyumna became a horse and
Three gulmas make one Gana and three such ganas taking me on its back approached the owl living in the
make one Vahini. Three such vahinis make one Prtana. Himalayas. The owl also could not remember Indra-
An Aksauhml contains 21870 chariots, an equal number dyumna but directed him to a stork named Nadljarhgha
of elephants, 65160 horses and 109350 soldiers. who was older than the owl. The Ascetic king took me
AKSAYAPATRA. This is a copper vessel given to then to the Indradyumna lake where the stork lived.
Dharmaputra by Surya(Sun). To destroy the Pan.davas, The stork also could not find the identity of Indra-
Duryodhana kept them in a palace made of lac. They dyumna. Perhaps he said that a tortoise of name Aku-
escaped from there and passing through dense forests para living in that same lake might know him. We then
crossed the river Ganges and reached the Kingdom of approached the tortoise and enquired whether he knew
Pancala where they married the King's daughter, Indradyumna. The tortoise sat in meditation for some
Krsna (Pancall). On their way they killed two demons time and then weeping profusely and shaking like a leaf
called Hidimba and Baka. When they were livm.g hap- stood bowing respectfully and said, "How can I remain
pily at Indraprastha the jealous Duryodhana defeated without knowing him ? There are several monuments
them in a game of dice by foul play and sent them for a him here. This very lake is of
of the useful work done by
period of twelve years to the forests. The Pandavas his making. This came into existence by the march of
found it
impossible to feed the innumerable subjects who the cows he gave away to the people". The moment
ALAGHU 24
ALAMBUSA
the tortoise finished speaking a chariot appeared from Alambusa had engaged Abhimanyu,
Satyaki, Ghatot-
heaven to take the King away. The King after leaving kaca, Kuntibhoja and Bhimasena all
mighty men of
me and the owl in their proper places ascended to heaven arms, in single combat, in the Kaurava battle. It is seen
in the chariot. that he has got another
_ name, Salakajamka. He was
ALAGHU. A son born to Vasistha by Urjja. Raja killed by Ghatotkaca in the battle.
(M.B. Drona
(Rajas) Gatra, Urdhvabahu, Savana,
Sukra and Parva, Chapter 109, Stanzas 22 to 33).
Sutapas, who were great hermits, were brothers of ALAMBUSA II. Another king on the side of the Kaura-
Alaghu, who has another name 'Alagha'. (Agni Punlna, vas. Satyaki killed this king. (Mahabharata, Drona
Chapter 20). Parva, Chapter 140, Stanza 13).
ALAKA. The city of Kubera. ALAMBUSA III. A king of the Raksasas. It is seen that
this Alambusa was defeated and driven
ALAKANANDA. River Ganga of devaloka. The river away from the
bat'le-ficld by Arjuna. (Drona Parva, Chapter 167,
ganga of the earth when it flows through devaloka is Stanzas 37 to 47).
called Alakananda and is called VaitaranI when it flows
ALAMBUSA IV. A giant, the son of
Jatasura. Ghatot-
through Pitrloka (nether world). Kr?nadvaipayana kaca killed this giant in the battle.
(Vyasa) declares that Deva Ganga with crystal pure ALAMBUSA. A
water flowing in devaloka under the name Alakananda
celestial woman born (o
Kasyapa by
his wife Pradha.
and Vaitarani of the nether world, a terror to sinners,
are the same as the Gariga of the earth. (Slokas 21 and 1) Genealogy. Begins from Visnu in the following
order: Brahma-Ka^yapa-Alambusa.
22, Chapter 170, Bhasa Bharata, A.P.).
2) How she enticed the hermit Dadhica. In days of yore
Starting from Visnupada Alakananda flows through
there was an ascetic named Dadhica. He
Devayana which blazes with the splendour of a crore of began doing
beautiful many-storeyed buildings. Flowing from there tapas on the bi.nk of the river Sarasvatl. Indra was in
consternation. Indra sent this celestial maid Alambura
to Candramandala (moon) and flooding it completely
to entice the hermit. When the ascetic
flows down to Brahmaloka. From there it divides into got down to the
four rivulets and flows to the four different sides with river, Alambusa approached him with enticing actions
the names Sita, Caksus, Alakananda and Bhadra. Of
and expressions. When saw her he became
the hermit
these Sita falls on the thickly wooded mountain tops of passionate and he had seminal flow. The sperm fell
Mahameru and flowing from there through Gandha- into the river. The river became pregnant and delivered
madana by the side of BhadraSvavarsa falls down in the a child in due course. He was called Sarasvata.
eastern ocean. Caksus falls on the top of Malyavan
Alambusa brought the child before Dadhica, who blessed
the child and said that there would be a drought in the
mountain and through Ketumala falls down in
flowin-g
the western ocean. The most sacred of the group, country continuously for twelve years and that at that
Alakananda, falls on the mountain of Hemakuta and juncture Sarasvata would recite passages from the
from there flows through Bharatavarsa and falls down Scripture to the Brahmins who had forgotten them. The
in the southern ocean. The fourth, Bhadra, falling on much pleased Sarasvatl and Sarasvata went back.
the top of the Mountain, Sriigavan flows to the northern At that time Indra lost his Vajrayudha (weapon of
ocean. Of these the most sacred is Alakananda which thunderbolt) somewhere. The Asuras (enemies of
flows through Bharatavarsa and it is believed that even Gods) made an onslaught on the gods and their realm.
those who think of taking a bath in that will acquire the Indra knew that with a weapon made by the bone of
benefit of performing yagas like AsVamedha and Raja- Dadhica the Asuras could be destroyed. Indra asked the
Gods to bring the bone. They came down to the earth
suya. (Eighth Skandha of Sri Mahadevlbhagavata).
'
pregnant. One day she told her lover-husband that she exquisite notes of music, betels and some tricks to pre-
had a desire to dip in a blood pond. The King made a pare never fading garlands and paste to make marks on
pond and filled it with a solution of Laksa (wax, when the forehead. Receive them as my presents". Udayana
dissolved in water, the water will look like blood) and accepted the presents with gladness and returned more
such other substances. Mrgavati was dipping and splash- luminous than before to the hermitage of Jamadegni.
ing in it when an eagle taking her to be a piece of flesh The snake-charmer took the bangle, given by Udayana
took her away. At the loss of his wife Sahasranlka lost to the bazar for sale. The police caught him and took
his senses and fell down unconscious. Immediately him before the King, because they saw the name of the
Ma tali, Indra's charioteer, came down from the realm of King inscribed on the bangle. The King asked him how
Gods and brought the King back to consciousness, and he got the bangle and the snake-charmer told the King
then informing him of the curse of Tilottama he returned. the story from the catching of the snake till he got the
Without paying any heed to the consolatory words of bangle- "This is the bangle that I put on the arm of my
his ministers or other inmates of the palace the King wife.The boy who gave this bangle to this snake-charmer
went on lamenting and moaning, "ha, my love Mrga- must be my son." The King was thinking with sadness,
vati! Where are you now ?" and waited for the end of when the King heard a voice from above say, "O King !
the period of the curse, execrating Tilottama. Casting the period of the curse is over. Your wife and son are
Mrgavati on the Mountain of the Rising Sun the great in the Mountain of the Rising Sun". At these words the
bird flew away. The horror-stricken queen, thinking of King extreme joy. Somehow or other he spent the
felt
hei present condition cried aloud. A very large mountain rest of the day. Early the next morning the King follow-
snake began to draw near to swallow her. A divine ed by his army, went to the Mountain of the Rising Sun
person saved her from that situation and vanished. The to bring back his wife and son. They took the snake-
unprotected Mrgavati decided to commit suicide. It charmer to show them the way.
was a forest which abounded in lions, tigers, bears and In due course the King and his train reached the holy
such other ferocious animals. But none of them came hermitage of the eminent hermit Jamadagni. The place
near her over and above the exertion of carrying, she
;
was always vibrant with sounds of the repeating and reci-
had to bear the difficulties of her forlorn condition, and tation of the Holy scriptures and covered with smoke
she grew weary and worn and became unconscious. mingled with the fragrance of burning herbs and other
Then a hermit boy came there and questioned her who oblations burned in the sacrificial fire. The various wild
was now lean and ill-dressed, about her condition and animals which are born enemies of each other got on
consoling her guided her to the hermitage of the great amicably there. The hermit who was an incarnation of
hermit Jamadagni. When she saw the hermit who was the higher aspirations greeted the King who was the
as radiant as the Sun, she bowed low before him. "My protector of the ascetics, with the hospitality becoming
daughter Don't fear. You will get a heroic son here who
! his status. The King who saw Mrgavati with their son
will continue your family. You will be reunited to your was overcome with gladness. Their reunion caused a
husband." Said the great and noble hermit, who could shower of Ambrosia (Amrta). The King stood before
foresee the future. Somewhat pacified Mrgavati lived the hermit with folded arms and bowed head for per-
in that hermitage waiting for reunion with her husband. mission to depart. To the King the hermit Jamadagni
After some days she gave birth to a son who had all the said "Oh, King, you are welcome to this hermitage.
:
symptoms of greatness. At the birth of the child Mrga- To thosesuch as you who are of the 'Rajogunapradhana'
vati heard an unknown voice saying, "This boy would caste (Ruling race) the peaceful atmosphere of our
become the great and renowned King Udayana. His son hermitage may not be appealing to the heart. But a holy
would get the leadership of the Vidyadharas(the musi- hermitage is more respectable than the palace of an
cians of the Gods)". At this the queen was immensely Emperor. There is no place for unhappiness here. You
ALAMBUSA 26 ALARKA II
might have known that the reason for your separation Mrsiryogebvarat pituh
is a curse. When you were returning from heaven with Visalah sunyabandhu:,ca
Tilottama, you were so much engrossed in the thought of Dhumraketu:,catatsutah
Visalo vaimakrdraja
Mrgavati that you did not pay any heed to the conver-
sation of Tilottama. She was displeased with your be- VaiSallrh nirmame purim".
haviour and cursed you. In future, if ever you happen to "He who is the seat of all laudable qualities
(Trnabindu)
get into a position which will cause you
mental trouble was honoured by Alambusa (as
husband). Idavida
you can be assured of the presence of this Jamadagni." their daughter was given in
marriage to Visravas and
The King said, "I am extremely grateful to your Emi- to them was born Dhanada (Kubera). His father
nence for this great boon. I am fully aware of the fact who was a great hermit taught him everything required.
that the presence of the holy hermits who have under Three sons ViSala, Sunyabandhu and Dhumraketu,
their control the eightfold prosperities, is always a were born to them. Visala who was the founder of the
harbinger of peace and prosperity. I am very sorry to Dynasty, built a city called Vais'li." (Bhagavatam,
say that the exigency of my presence at the capital due to Navama Skandham, Chapter 2, Stanzas 31-33).
the pressure of work in connection with the luling of the Alambusa took part in the birthday celebration of
country compels me to cut short my visit to this holy Arjuna.*
hermitage. I shall be looking forwaid with pleasure to (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Stanza 49) (See
occasions which will enable me to pay visits to this Holy Footnote)
abode." ALA&KARAGRANTHA. (A book on rhetorics and
Much pleased at the speech of the King the hermit said figures of speech). See the word Pattu.
to Mrgavati: "My daughter Not only myself, but all
!
ALA&KARAVATl. Wife of King Naravahanadatta. It
the inmates of this hermitage are highly pleased at is seen in the Kathasaritsagara where a Vidyadhara
having got you in our midst for so long. We are sorry to woman tells the story of Alarikaravati to the King.
part from you. Now look the animals of the hermitage
!
Once a vidyadhara named AlarikarasTla ruled over a
are standing round you and shedding tears. Still we are
city called Sri Sundarapura in the Himalayas. His wife
consoled at your reunion with your husband. Naturally was called Kancanaprabha. Ason was born to them.
you are of a very good character and your life in this They named him Dharmaula because Devi KatyayanI
hermitage has given you a nice training and so there is no told them in a dream that the son would become Dharma-
need for any more advice from me at this time."
para (who performs duties well). To the prince, know-
Saying this he drew Udayana to his side, kissed him on ledge in every branch of studies was imparted and then
his head and said to the King again "This son is a deco-
:
he was anointed heir to the throne. He executed regal
ration to your dynasty. This handsome boy has been_ functions to perfection and ruled his subjects better than
taught everything becoming a royal prince. Let him be a his father. Kancanaprabha, wife of Alarikarasila, gave
costly gem to you". birth to a daughter. At the time of her birth a heavenly
Thus blessing the boy the hermit led him to the King. voice said that she would become the wife of Narava-
The joy at her reunion with husband, her shyness at hanadatta the emperor of the Vidyadharas. They named
being near him, her sorrow at having to depart from the her Alarikaravati. She grew into a very beautiful maiden.
hermitage and the surging feeling in her mind all She learned arts and sciences from her father. She went
these made her dumb and so being unable to say any- on a pilgrimage to the Siva temples far and wide. One
thing she expressed her love and regard for the hermit day she heard a celestial voice: "Go to the Svayambhu
whom she loved as her father, by some motions of her temple in Kasmira and worship there and you will get
body and took leave of him with her son. The blessed as your husband Naravahanadatta." Finally Nara-
King and his tram, looking at the men, beasts and birds vahanadatta the emperor of Vidyadharas married her.
which accompanied them for a while, took leave of them
(Kathasaritsagara, Lambaka 9, Taranga 1).
and proceeded to the capital city. On reaching there
ALOLUPA. A son of Dhrtarastra.
the King anointed his son Udayana as King. Sahasra-
nika then went to the Himalayas to practise ascesis with ALPAKALA (M). A short time. (Alpa = short and Kala
his wife.
= time). In the Bhagavata the following definition is
(Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukhalambaka,
Tarariga 2). given of alpakala "Take two tender leaves of a lotus
:
*Alambusa was the mother of the Celestial maid Kalavati. See the word Thintha Karate.
ALATAKSl 27 AMBA
the council of yama. He attained salvation by yoga and AMARAPARVATA. An ancient place in Bharata.
meditation. (18th Sloka, Chapter 8, Sabha Parva, M.B.). Nakula had conquered this place. (M.B., Sabha Parva,
Once Alarka decided to overcome the five senses. To Chapter 32, Verse 11).
control them he sent arrows at the mind, nose, tongue, AMARAVATl. It is the city of
Indra, the King of the
ear, eye, skin and intelligence. But the senses never Devas. Its location is described in Devi Bhagavata as
surrendered to them. Then Alarka by sheer dhyana follows: "Brahma's world extends over 10,000 yojanas
and yoga brought them under control. (M.B., Anu- on the Mahameru mountain. There are eight cities
sasana Parva, Chapter 30). each 2,500 square yojanas in extent of the Astadik-
Alarka once told a blind brahmin boy to ask for any boon palakas in eight parts of this Brahmapuii. Thus there are
from him. The boy demanded the eyes of Alarka. To nine cities on the top of the Maha Meru. They are the
keep his promise Alarka scooped out his eyes and gave following:
them to the blind boy. (Ramayana, Ayodhya Kanda, 1. In the centre is Brahma's city, Manovatl.
Sarga, 12, Sloka 43). 2. To the east of Manovatl, Indra's city, Amaravatl.
ALATAKSl. A woman in the service of Skanda. (M.B., 3. In the south-east corner, Agni's city, Tejovati.
Salya Parva, Chapter 43, Stanza 8). 4. On the southern side, Yama's city, Samyamani.
ALAYUDHA. A giant. He was the brother of Bakasura. 5. In the south-west corner, Nirrti's city, Krsnanjana.
He fought on the side of the Kauravas. (M.B., Drona 6. In the west, Varuna's city, Sraddhavatl.
Parva, Chapter 95, Stanza 46 and Chapter 1 76, Stanza 6). 7. In the north-west corner, Vayu's city, Gandhavati.
Alayudha combated with Bhimasena and Ghatotkaca 8. In the north, Kubera's city Mahodaya.
and was killed by Ghatotkaca. 9. In the north-east corner, Siva's city, Ya:'ovati.
AMADHYA. A synonym of Sri Krsna. (M.B., Santi (Devi Bhagavata, Astama Skandha).
Parva, Chapter 342, Verse 90). AMARDANA. See the word "PAJSfCATANTRA".
AMAHATHA. A serpent. It was burnt up in the fire at AMAVASl. In Amarako.'^a we read about AmavasI:
the Sarpa satra of Janamejaya. (M.B., Adi Parva, "Amavasya tvamavasya daiSah suryendusamgamah".
Chapter 57, Verse 16). AmavasI means New Moon. "Ama" means "Saha".
AMANTHU. A king of the family of Priyavrata. So AmavasI is the Union of Sun and Moon in the same
Genealogy. From Visnu descended in this order : rasi.
Brahma-Svayambhuva Manu - Priyavrata - Aglndhra- Once Bhrgu Maharsi cursed Agni. At that time Agni
Nabhi-Rsabha - Bharata - Sumati - Devatljit - Deva- explained the importance of AmavasI. The oblations
- Paramesti - Pratiha - Pratiharta - Bhuma - which ate offered as homa into the fire become the food
dyumna
Sita Prastoka - Vibhu - Prthusena - Nakta - Gaya -
- of the Devas and Pitrs. Substances offered as homa on
Citraratha - Samrat - Marici - Vinduman - Madhu - PurnamasI become food of the Devas and those offered
Vlravrata - Amanthu. Vlravrata had two sons, Manthu on AmavasI become food of the Pitrs. (M.B., Adi
and Amanthu. Parva, Chapter 7).
AMARACANDRA. A Sanskrit poet. It is believed that AMAVASU I. Son of Pururavas by UrvasT. (M.B.,
he lived in the 13th Cent. A.D. Bala Bharata was his Adi Parva, Chapter 75, Verse 24).
work. Amaracandra was a Jaina priest. It is said that Genealogy. From Visnu, Biahma-Atri-Candra-Budha-
he was a courtier of Visaladeva, the son of King Vira- Pururavas-Amavasu .
dhavala who ruled over Gujarat from 1243 to 1262. AMAVASU II. One of the Pitrs.Once Acchoda was
AMARAGUPTA. He was the minister of King Vikrama- fascinated by the physical charm of this Amavasu and
sirhha who ruled over Avanti in olden times. (Katha- made advances of love to him. Amavasu repelled her
saritsagara, Madana Man cuka lambaka, First Taraiiga ) . advances. On account of this impropriety of Acchoda,
AMARAHRADA. A place of holy bath. One who takes who was a spiritual daughter of the Pitrs, she was de-
his bath here will attain Svarga. (M.B., Vana Parva, graded and in her next birth was born as Kali or
Chapter 83, Verse 106). Satyavati. (Padma Puiana, Srsti Kh;nda).
AMARAKAIVTAKA. A mountain. It was on this AMBA. Daughter of a Kng of Kf.si.
mountain that some parts of Tripura, which was burnt 1
) Ambd and Vicitravir} a. Amba is an ill-starred
by Siva fell- From that time it became a holy place. In character in the story ol the Maha.bhf.rata. She had
Padma Purana, Adi Khanda, Chapter 15, we see the two younger sisters named Ambika and Ambalika.
following passage about the benefits obtained by visit- Bhisma,who had taken a vow to remain a bachelor for
ing this holy place. "One who goes to Amarakantaka life, had once taken Amb Ambika and Ambalika, the
.,
mountain will enjoy the fourteen worlds for thirtyseven three daughters of the King of Kail, to Hastinapura.
thousand crores of years. Afterwards he will be born on The circumstances in which this happened, are descri-
earth as King and reign as supreme emperor. A visit to ed in Devi Bhagavata, Prathama Skandha as follows :
Amarakantaka has ten times the value of an A^vamedha. Santanu, a King of the Candra Varh;:a, had two wives,
If one has Siva's darsana there, one will attain Svarga. Gaiiga and Satyavati. Bhlsma was the son of Gaiiga
At the time of eclipse, all kinds of holy things converge and Citraiigada and Vicitravirya were the sons of
towards Amarakantaka. Those who take their bath in Satyavati. Soon after Bhisma's birth, Gaiiga vanished.
Jvalesvara in Amarakantaka will enter Svarga. The After a long period of reign, Santanu also died. Satya-
dead will have no rebirth. Those who renounce their vati and the three sons were left behind in the palace.
lives at Jvalesvara will live in Rudraloka till the time of According to a vow he had taken long ago, Bhlsma,
great Deluge. In the valley of Amarakantaka and in the instead of succeeding to his father's throne, left it to his
Tirtha live D^vas known as Amiras and numerous Rsis. brother Citraiigada. Once Citraiigada went for hunting
Amarakantaka Ksetra has a circumference of one yojana. in the forest. There he came across a Gandharva named
(about eight miles). Citrangada. The Gandharva did not like another man
AMBA 28 AMBA
with his own name to be living in this woild. So he 5 )
The remaining part of her engaged
Siva's Boon.
killed the king. Alter that Vicitravlrya became king. itself inpenance. Siva appeared to her and told her that
Bhlsma had to take up the task of arranging a suitable in the next birth she would attain masculinity. He added
marriage for Vicitravlrya. that she would be born in the Drupada dynasty as a
2) The Svayamvara. It was at this time that Bhlsma great archer under the name of Citrayodhi and kill
came to know
that the King of Kasi was arranging the Bhlsma. Pleased with this prophecy, she took a vow that
Svayarhvara of his three daughters, Amba, Ambika and she would kill Bhlsma and making a pyre, burnt herself
Ambalika. Bhlsma went there and in the presence of all to death.
the kings who had assembled there, took the three 6) Rebirth. King Drupada's queen had been in great
princesses with Hastinapura. There he made all
him to distress for a long time because she had no children.
preparations for the marriage. But as the time for the Drupada propitiated Siva by worshipping him for an
ceremony approached, the eldest and most beautiful of issue. Siva blessed him and said that a girl would be
the princesses, Amba went to Bhlsma and said "I had : born to him, but she would be transformed into a boy.
alreadymade up my mind long ago to marry Salva, the In due course, the queen gave birth to a girl, but it was
King. Besides, we are deeply in love with each other. announced that it was a boy. Therefore the child had to
Therefore, please consider whether it is proper on the be brought up, dressed like a boy. The child became
part of a great man like you to force me into another famous under the name of Sikhandi. When Sikhandl
marriage." attained youth, Drupada decided to look for a wife for
On hearing this, Bhlsma allowed her to do as she liked. him (her ?). Still he was greatly perplexed as to how to
Amba then went to King Salva and made an appeal to find a wife for Sikhandi who was already a youthful
him to accept her as his wife since they were mutually virgin But his wife assured Drupada that Sikhandi
!
9) Sikhandl's Revenge. The Mahabharata, Bhisma The Muni (Sage) Saubhari married the daughters.
Parva, Chapter 108, describes Bhisma's encounter with 2) Ambarisa's Taga ( sacrifice) In Valmlki Ramayana
.
Sikhandi during the Kaurava-Pandava battle. The there is a story of Devendra's theft of the sacrificial
Pandavas started the day's battle by keeping Sikhandi cow from Ambarlsa's yagasala. Devendra could not
in the vanguard. Bhima, Arjuna, Abhimanyu and other bear the thought of King Ambarlsa winning world-
warriors were giving him support. It was Bhisma who renown and glory by performing yagas. Therefore Indra
led the Kaurava forces. Arrows began to fly from both stole the sacrificial cow and took it away. The Upa-
sides. It was the tenth day of the battle and Sikhandi
dhyaya ( Chief Priest ) was alarmed at the disappear-
shot three arrows aimed at Bhisma's breast. Bhisma ance of the cow and expressed his opinion to the King
with a smile of contempt said to Sikhandi, "Sikhandi ! that it would be enough to sacrifice a human being in-
Brahma created you as a woman. You may do as you stead of the cow. The King searched for the cow in all
like". Hearing this taunt, Sikhandi became more in- countries, cities and forests. At last he reached the
furiated. Arjuna inspired him with greater courage. peak of Bhrguturiga where the sage Rcika lived with
After that, keeping Sikhandi in front, Arjuna began to his wifeand children. The King explained to the sage
fight with Bhisma. Sikhandi also showered his arrows the whole story. He requested him to sell one of his sons
on him. Ten of these arrows of Sikhandi hit Bhisma's in exchange for 100,000 cows. Rcika had three sons.
breast. Bhisma disregarded even those arrows. At last The eldest was his father's favourite and the youngest
he said: "I cannot kill the Pandavas because they are was the mother's pet. In the end, Rcika sold the second
invulnerable (avadhyah). I cannot kill Sikhandi be- son, SunaSsepha in return for 100,000 cows.
cause he is really a woman and not man. Though I am On his return journey with Sunassepha the king rested
also invulnerable and cannot be killed in battle, yet for a while at Puskara Tlrtha. There Sunassepha
today I have to die; the time has come forme to die." happened to meet his uncle Visvamitra and complain-
Meanwhile Sikhandi and Arjuna were discharging a ed to him about his sad plight. Sunassepha's wish was
continuous and heavy shower of arrows at Bhisma. At that the king's yaga should be performed and at the same
last Bhisma fell down. (M.B., Udyoga Parva, Chapter time his own life-span should be extended. Visvamitra
173). promised to save Sunassepha. He called Madhu-
AMBAJANMA. It is of sacred bath where the
a place cchandas and his other sons and said to them "One of :
sage Narada usually resides. Those who die here will you must take the place of Ambarlsa's sacrificial cow
attain salvation (Moksa) by Niirada's blessing, accord- and save the life of Sunassepha. God will bless you."
ing to M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 81. But none of the sons of Visvamitra was prepared to
AMBALIKA. (1) The youngest of the three daughters become the sacrificial cow. Visvamitra uttered a curse
of the King of Kasl Amba, Ambika and Ambalika. on his sons that they would have to spend a thousand
Vicitravlrya, son of Santanu married Ambika and years on earth, eating dog-flesh. Then he turned to
Ambalika. The mother of this princess was Kausalya. Sunaisepha and told him that if he prayed to the gods
2) Pdndus Mother. Vicitravlrya died before children at the time of Ambarlsa's yajfla, they would save him.
were born to his wives. To avoid the extinction of the So Sunassepha went to Ambarlsa's yagasala. As
family, Satyavall, mother of Vicitravlrya summoned ordered by the assembled guests, Ambarlsa bound
Vyasa, her other son and asked him to beget a son for Sunassepha and had him dressed in blood-red robes,
Ambika. Vyasa obeyedhis mother half-heartedly. ready for the sacrifice. Sunassepha began to praise and
Ambika did not the dark-complexioned, crudely
like pray to the gods. Soon Indra appeared and blessed him
attired Vyasa. Still owing to the Mother's pressure, she with longevity. He also rewarded Ambarlsa for his
*
passively submitted to the act. As a result of their union yaga. Thus Sunassepha was saved. (Valmiki Rama-
was born Dhrtarastra, who was blind from his birth. The yana Bala Kanda, Sarga 61).
grief-stricken mother called Vyasa again and asked him 3) Ambarifa and Durvdsas. In Bhagavata we see a story
to have union with Ambalika this time. As Ambalika's which describes how the Sudarsana Cakra which emerg-
face was pale at the time of their union, a child with ed from Ambarlsa's forehead chased Durvasas in all
pale complexion was born to her. He was named Pandu. the three worlds. Ambarlsa was a devout worshipper of
Having thus failed in both attempts, SatyavatI asked Visnu. From the very beginning of his reign, peace and
Ambika to go to Vyasa again. At night Ambika secretly prosperity spread all over the country. Mahavisnu
disguised her waiting-maid and sent her in her own who was pleased with the deep piety and devotion of
place, to Vyasa. The waiting-maid experienced exquisite Ambarlsa appeared to him and bestowed on him the
pleasure in Vyasa's company and as a result a most control of his (Visnu's) Sudarsana Cakra. After that
intelligent son was born to her. It was he who became Ambarlsa 'started the observance of EkadasI vrata.
the renowned Vidura. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 106). The rigour of the observance alarmed even Indra. He
AMBARlSA I. A King of the Iksvaku dynasty. decided to obstruct the observance somehow or other. At
1
) Genealogy and Birth. From Visnu was born in the that time, Durvasas arrived in devaloka. Indra insti-
following order Brahma-Marici-Kasyapa. - Vivasvan-
:
gated Durvasas to spoil the EkadasI observance of
Vaivasvatamanu-Iksvaku-Vikuksi - Sasada - Puranjaya- Ambarlsa.
Kukutstha-Anenas-Prthulasva-Prasenajit - Yuvanasva- Durvasas went to Ambarlsa's palace. There the King
Mandhata-Ambarlsa. Mandhata had three sons: Amba- received him with due respect and sent him to the river
rlsa, Mucukunda and Purukutsa and fifty daughters. Kalindi for his bath and morning rites. Durvasas went
* The
story of SunasseDha may be seen with slight variations in the Devi Bhagavata and other Puranas. In those versions, Sunassepha
has been described as the sacrificial cow at Hariscandra's yaga, and moreover, Ajigarta is referred to as the father of Sunassepha. (Brahmanda
Parana, Chapter 58 gives the same story as in Valmiki Ramayana) .
AMBARISA II 30 AMOGHA
for his bath and deliberately stayed away till the con- 60-69) .
clusion of Ambarlsa's Ekiidail observance. At the end AMBASTHA There was a hero called Ambastha
II.
of the observance, after feeding the gods with his among on the side of the Pandavas. (M.B.,
the warriors
la'-;.,
) \inbarisa kept the remaining portion for
- Drona Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 50). He fought
Durvasas. After his bath etc., Durvasas returned, but against King Cedi who was on the side of the Kauravas
he was furious when he was offered the leavings of the and in the fight King Ccdi fell.
food of the gods and refused to take any food. In his AMBASTHA III. See the word "VAR1VJA".
anger he advanced towards Ambarisa. A terrible mons- AMBASTHAM. A region in ancient India. It is believ-
ter Krtya. emanated from the Maharsi and was about ed that it was to the north of Sindlia (M.B., Sabha
to destroy Ambarlsa. Ambarlsa at once called upon Parva, Chapter 37, Verse 7) .
Sudarsana Cakra, which appeared instantly and after AMBHORUHA. A son of Sage Visvamitra. (M.B., Anu-
cutting the throat of Krtya, turned against Durvasas. sasana Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 59).
Terrified by it, Durvasas began to flee for life. The AMBIKA I. Elder sister of Ambalika. (See AMBA-
Cakra pursued him at his heels. Durvasas went to Indra LIKA).
and sought refuge with him. But the Cakra followed AMBIKA Another name of Parvati. (Agni Purana,
II.
him there. Indra pleaded helplessness. Then the Chapter 12).
Maharsi went to Brahma and sued for his help. There AMBUMATl. A river. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 83,
also the Cakra pursued him. Brahma sent him to Siva. Verse 56).
Siva was also unable to give him shelter. Sudarsana con- AMBUVAHINI. A river. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter
tinued to chase him. Durvasas then sought shelter with 9, Verse 27) Praising this river at dawn and dusk will
.
Mahavisnu. Visnu told him plainly that there was bring divine grace. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter
no alternative but to go and sue for mercy to Amba- 165, Verse 20).
rlsa himself and advised him to do so. At last Durvasas AMBUVlCA. One of the Kings of Magadha. He had a
returned to Ambarlsa and begged his pardon. Ambarlsa minister named Mahakarni. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter
saved him from Sudarsana Cakra and described to him 203, Verses 17-19).
the glory resulting from the observance of Ekadasi AMHU. An Asura the Rgveda. This
in the period of
vrata. (Bhagavata, Navama Skandha) . Asura had been doing much harm to the hermits.
4) Other Details (1) Ambarisa performed a yaga in Purukutsa was the hermit whom he tormented most.
the Yamuna valley. (M.B.,Adi Parva, Chapter 1, Verse Indra vanquished this Asura and destroyed seven of
277; Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 6; Vana Parva, his cities. (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 11, Sukta
Chapter 129, Verse 2). 63, Khanda 7).
(2) Maharsi Durvasas recalled Ambarisa's power. AMITADHVAJA. A Raksasa. ( M.B., Santi Parva, Chap-
(M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 263, Verse 33). ter 227, Verse 50).
(3) The Sage Vyasa once told Dharmaputra that AMITAUJA. A mighty Ksatriya King of the Paficala
Ambarisa was one of the 16 great kings who lived in kingdom. He was born from the element of a Raksasa
ancient times. The 16 reputed Kings were Marutta, : named Ketuman. Before the Pandavas went to war, they
Suhotra, Paurava, Sibi, Sri Rama, Bhaglratha, Dilipa, had sent an invitation to him. He was one of the distin-
Mandhata, Yayati, Ambarisa, Sasabindu, Gaya, Ranti- guished royal allies of the Pandavas. (M.B., Adi Parva,
deva, Bharata, Prthu and Parasurama. (M.B., Drona Chapter 67, Verse 12; Udyoga Parva, Chapter 4,
Parva, Chapter 64). Verse 12; Udyoga Parva, Chapter 71, Verse 11).
(4) Ambarlsa fought single-handed against thousands ,
AMBARlSA II. When Balabhadrarama entered the AMOGHA III. A synonym of Siva. (M.B., Anusasana
lower world (Patala) after death, among the Nagas Parva, Chapter 17, Verse 114).
who welcomed him, there was one called "Ambarisa". AMOGHA IV. A synonym of Visnu. (M.B., Anusasana
(M.B., Mausala Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 16). Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 25) .
AMBASTHA I. King Srutayu, who belonged to the party AMOGHA(M). An Agni which originated from Brhas-
of the Kauravas was the ruler of Ambastha land and pati's family. (M.B., Vana Parva Chapter 222, Verse
so he was called Ambastha. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, 24).
Chapter 96, Verses 39-40) He was killed in the fight
.
AMOGHA. Santanu Maharsi's wife. Once Brahma
with Arjuna. (M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter 93, Verses visited Santanu Maharsi's Asrama. As the Maharsi was
AMPITTA 31 AMRTAM
not at home, it was Amogha who received the guest its trunk, examined it by smelling it and then threw it
legend on the basis of which this community has assum- tell you. Along with the Asuras bring all kinds of medi-
ed the title of "Pandit". cinal herbs and deposit them in the ocean of Milk.
Long ago when Sri Buddha was about to go to the Obtain Amrtam from it by churning it with Mahameru
forest forperforming Tapas, thousands of people flocked as the churning staff and Vasuki as the rope. The
together to have his darsana. Buddha wished to continue Amrtam (Amrta) which will be produced by churning
his journey after shaving his head. Buddha asked
loudly the Milk sea, will make you strong and deathless. I
whether anyone in the crowd was prepared to shave shall see that the Asuras will share in your troubles but
his head. Only a single man came forward cheerfully to not in enjoying Amrtam."
do that work. Buddha turned to him and said: "My 2) Churning of the Milk Sea. After Visnu had vanished,
dear friend, you are the only Pandit in this crowd. You the Devas made a treaty with the Asuras and began to
have the wisdom to understand that there is nothing work for getting Amrtam. All of them joined together
disgraceful in shaving one's head." in bringing various kinds of medicinal herbs and after
He shaved Buddha's head. From that day his descen- putting them in the Milk sea which was as clear as the
dants _came to be known as "Pandits". cloudless sky, began to churn it, using Manthara Moun-
AMRTA. Daughter of a King of Magadha. She was the tain as the churning staff and snake Vasuki as the rope.
wife of Anasva and mother of Pariksit. (M.B., Adi The party of Devas was posted at the tail-end of Vasuki
Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 41) . while the Asuras took their stand at the head. The
AMRTAM. (SeePRAMRTAM). Asuras became enervated by the fiery breath coming out
AMRTAM. A delicious and precious food obtained from of Vasuki's mouth. The clouds which were blown by
the ocean of Milk when the Devas and Asuras churned that breath invigorated the Devas.
it. In Chapter 152 of Agni Purana, the word "Mrtam" Mahavisnu transformed himself into a tortoise, and
is defined as wealth received by begging and "Amrtam" sitting in the middle of the Milk Sea served as the
as wealth received without
begging, and "Pramrtam" foundation for the Manthara Mountain, the churning
as another kind of wealth obtained without
begging. staff. Assuming another form, invisible both to Devas
1) Cause of Ksirabdhi-mathanam. (Churning of the Sea and Asuras, Mahavisnu pressed down the Manthara
of Milk) Once when Maharsi Durvasas was travelling Mountain from above.
through a forest, he met the Apsara woman, Menaka, While churning the Milk Sea like this, the first object
with a garland of Kalpaka flowers in her hand. The that rose to the surface was Kamadhenu. Both Devas
fragrance of the flowers filled the whole forest. Durvasas and Asuras were strongly attracted towards Kamadhenu
approached Menaka and requested her to give the gar- While all were standing spellbound, VarumdevI with
land to him. The Vidyadharl (Apsara woman) prostrat- her enchanting dreamy eyes next appeared on the sur-
ed before the Maharsi with reverence and presented face. Parijatam was the third to appear. Fourth, a group
the garland to him. Wearing that garland on his hair, of Apsara women of marvellous beauty floated up. The
Durvasas went to devaloka. Moon appeared as the fifth. Siva received the Moon.
There he saw Indra riding on his elephant, Airavata, The venom which came out of the Milk Sea as the
accompanied by his retinue of Devas. The Maharsi took sixth item, was absorbed by Nagas. After that arose
the rare garland from his head and
presented it to Bhagavan Dhanvantari, dressed in pure white robes
Indra, the King of Devas. Indra received the garland and carrying a Kamandalu in his hand filled with
and placed it on Airavata's head. The elephant was Amrtam. All were delighted at this sight. Next Maha-
attracted by the fragrance of the
garland and took it in laksmi made her appearance in all her glory with a
AMRTAM 32 AMRTAM
lotus in her hand and seated in an open lotus flower. 7) The story of Airdvata. Indra's tusker Airavata was
Gandharvas sang celestial songs in her presence ; responsible for the churning of the ocean of Milk. But
Apsara women danced. For her bath, the Gariga river in the Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter
18, Verse 42
arrived there with her tributaries. The Milk Sea itself it is said that a white
elephant with four tusks arose
took on physical form and offered her a garland of ever- during the churning of the ocean of Milk and that
fresh lotus flowers. Brahma bedecked her with orna- Dcvendra caught and tamed it. This is an obvious
ments. After that Laksmldevi, fully adorned in all her contradiction. Besides, in Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya-
magnificent jewels, in the presence of all Devas, joined kanda, 14th Sarga, the wounded Jatayu describing his
the bosom of Mahavisnu. The Asuras were displeased family history to Sri Rama, gives the following account
at it. They snatched the pot of Amrtam from Dhan- about the origin of Airavata :
vantari and fled away. Kasyapa, one of the Prajapalis, married the eight
3) How Amrtam was recovered. With the loss of Amrtam, daughters of Daksa. One of them named Krodhavasa
the Devas were in a fix. They began to consider how had ten daughters by Kasyapa. They were:
Mrgi, Mrga-
the pot of Amrtam could be recovered. Accordingly mada, Hari, Bhadramada., Mataiigl, Sarduh, Sveta,
Mahavisnu transformed himself into a celestial virgin, Surabhi, Surasa and Kadru. Of them Bhadramada
Mohini, of extraordinary beauty. She approached the gave birth to a daughter, Iravati. The tusker Airavata
Asuras as a shy girl. The Asuras were enchanted by is Iravati's son.
her surpassing beauty. They asked her, "Who are An explanation for this discrepancy may be seen in
you ?" Looking down on the ground, Mohini replied: Visnu Purana, 3rd Section, Chapter 1. Now six
"I am the little sister of Dhanvantari. By the time I Manvantaras have passed (See 'MANVANTARA') .
came out of the Milk Sea, the Devas and Asuras had This is the seventh Manvantara. Each Manvantara
already gone. Being lonely I am going about in search has a new Indra. According to this, different Indras
of a suitable mate." have their own Airavatas. This is the only explanation
On hearing her words, the Asuras began to make for this apparent contradiction.
friends with her one by one, determined not to waste 8) Amrtam and Garuda. There is another story about
this opportunity. They told her that she should distri- Amrtam which says that Garuda once went to deva-
bute Amrtam to all of them and in the end she should loka and brought Amrtam from there to be given to
marry one of them. Mohini agreed, but added "All : the Nagas, but Devendra came down and took it back.
of you should close your eyes. I shall serve Amrtam This story is given in Mahabharata from Chapter 27
to all. He who opens his eyes last, must serve Amrtam onwards. Vinata, a wife of Kasyapa gave birth to
to me and he will marry me". Garuda and Kadru and her sister gave birth to the
All of them accepted this condition. They sat in front Nagas. Once there was a dispute between Vinata and
of Mohini with closed eyes. In a moment Mohini left Kadru. Vinata said that the hairs on the tail of Uccai-
the place with the pot of Amrtam and went to deva- sravas, Devendra's horse, were white but Kadru
loka. asserted that they were black. To settle the dispute they
4) Rdhu's neck is cut. When the Asuras opened their made a bet. The condition was that the loser must
eyes, Mohini was not to be seen. Finding that they become the servant maid of the winner. As instructed
were betrayed, they were in great perplexity. All of by Kadru, some of the Nagas went in advance and
them pursued Mohini to devaloka. Devas had put hung down from the tail of Uccaissravas, thus giving the
the Sun and Moon gods on guard duty at the gates false appearance of a tail with black hairs. By this trick
of devaloka. At the instance of the Asuras, Rahu in Vinata lost the bet and had to become Kadru's servant
disguise entered the divine assembly chamber. The ,
maid. As a result of it, the task of looking after Kadru's
Sun and Moon gods detected him and Visnu with his children became Garuda's duty. Kadru told him that
weapon, Sudarsana Cakra cut open his neck. Swearing if he fetched Amrtam from devaloka and gave it to the
that he would wreak vengeance on the Sun and Moon Nagas, she was prepared to release him from the bond-
Rahu returned. In the 8th Skandha of Bhagavata it is age. So Garuda flew up to devaloka, fought with the
said that even now from time to time Rahu swallows gods and defeated them. He returned with the pot of
the Sun and Moon, but they escape through the open Amrtam and gave it to the Nagas. The Nagas went
gash in his neck and this is known as solar eclipse and to take their bath after placing the pot on darbha grass
lunar eclipse. spread on the floor. Just then Devendra swooped down
5) Defeat of the Asuras. Indra and all other gods took and carried away the pot of Amrtam to devaloka.
Amrtam. The enraged Asuras attacked the gods, who When the Nagas returned after their purifying bath,
had gained strength and vigour by taking Amrtam. the pot was not to be seen. In their greed they began
The Asuras were driven away in all directions. All the to lick the darbha grass on which the pot was placed.
three worlds began to enjoy glory and prosperity again. The sharp edge of the grass cut their tongues into two.
6) Kalakuta. The story of how the deadly poison, This is why the Nagas (snakes) came to have forked
Kulakiita arose at the churning of the ocean of Milk, tongues.
is given in M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 18, Verses 42-45, Amrtam which has been thus recovered after many
as follows After many precious things had come up
: such adventures, is still preserved carefully in devaloka.
Kalakuta poison with fumes and flames, appeared on [ (1) M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 17. (2) M.B., Adi
the surface of the ocean. Its strong smell caused a Parva, Chapter 27, verse 16. (3) M.B. Adi Parva,
stupor in all the three worlds. Fearing that the world Chapter 30, Verse 2. (4) Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya
will perish, Brahma requested Siva to swallow that Kanda, 35th Sarga. (5) Visnu Purana, Section 1,
poison. Siva gulped it down, but stopped it in his Chapter 9. (6) Agni Purana, Chapter 152. (7) Bhaga-
throat. From that day he became "Nilakantha". vata, 8th Skandha. (8) Uttara Ramayana.]
AMSA 33 AMSUMATI
AMSA. A sage of the family of Marlci. Name of the god Name of the amsavatara
1) Genealogy. He was descended from Visnu through 31. LaksmI Pancali
Brahma, Marlci and Kasyapa. 32. Sidd'hi KuntJ
2) Birth. Marlci was one of the six sons, all rsis, of 33. Mad Gandhari
Brahma. These six sons, born parthogenetically of 34. Jaya Hiranyaksa
Brahma, were Marlci, Aiigiras, Atri, Pulastya, Pulaha
:
35. Vijaya Hiranyakasipu
and Kratu. Marlci had a son named Kasyapa. Kasyapa 36. Hiranyaksa Ravana
married the thirteen daughters of Daksa. The eldest of 37. Hiranyakasipu Kumbhakarna
them, Aditi, gave birth to twelve sonsDhata, Aryaman, 38. Ravana Sisupala
Mitra, Sakra, Varuna, Arhsa, Bhaga, Vivasvan, Pusan, 39. Kumbhakarna Dandavaktra
Savita, Tvasta and Visnu. Arhia is one of these 40. Prahlada Salya
twelve sons who have been called the twelve Adityas. 41. Kalanemi Kamsa
(See Chapter 65 of Adi Parva of the Mahabharata) . 42. Anuhlada Dhrstaketu
3) Events. The Mahabharata says (Sloka 66, Chapter 43. Khara Dhenuka.
123) that Arhsa was present at the time of Arjuna's birth (For more detailsunder the word, AVATARA)
see .
when several devas had come there to see the infant. AMSUDHANAPATTANA. Name of an ancient to v n in
In Sloka 34, Chapter 45 of Salya Parva it is said that North India. Bharata passed through this town while
Arhsa was present on the occasion of the Abhiseka of going to Ayodhya from Kekaya after Dasaratha's death.
Skandadeva. Arhsa is said to have presented to Skanda- Valmiki has described this town in the Ramayana in
deva five good warriors Parigha, Vata, Bhima,
: this context.
Dahana and Dahati. AMSUMAN. Name of a King belonging to the Solar
AMSAPAYA. Name of a priest (Rtvik) qualified to dynasty (Surya Variisa) .
started performing Pradosa-Vrata. Lord Siva was pleas- married to Kas"yapa, son of Marici. Trees, creepers etc.
ed with them and gave them much wealth. Dharma- owe their origin to Anala.
(Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya
to meet Arhsumatl, daughter of the kanda, Canto 14) .
gupta happened
Gandharva King, Dramila, one day in a forest and ANALA II. Another Anala is referred to in Verse 71
fell in love with each other. Dramila came to Chapter 66 of Adi Parva, in M.B. This Anala was the
they
know of their love and so gave his daughter in marriage wife of KaSyapa and a great
granddaughter of Krodha-
to Dharmagupta. As a result of the wealth and power vasa, the daughter of Daksa. Krodhavasa begot Sveta,
which he had acquired by observing strictly Pradosa- and she Surabhl Rohini was the daughter of Surabhl
;
Vrata Dharmagupta was able to return to Vidarbha, and Anala was Rohini's daughter.
defeat King S'.lva and regain his kingdom from him. ANALA III. Daughter of Malyavan born of Sundarl.
AMURTARAYAS. He was a renowned King of ancient She was married to Vi^vavasu. KumbhinasI was her
Bharata and the father of King Gaya. Amurtarayas daughter. (Valmlki Ramayana, Uttarakanda).
received a sword from Puru. (M.B., Santi Parva, Chap- ANALAMBA. A sacred pool. A bath in the pool is as
ter 166, Verse 7 5). efficacious as the Purusamedha yajna. (M.B., Anu-
ANADIPAKA. sasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 32)
(See Pancatantra )
. .
1 Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus : Visnu- Atmapurana refers to him as the son of Nighna.
)
Brahma-Atri-Candra-Budha-Pururavas-Ayus - Nahusa
- ANAMITRA II. Anamitra, son of Dhrs{a is referred to
- Pracinvan -
Namasyu - Vita- as a king of the Yadavas in Atmapurana.
Yayati-Puru-Janamejaya
bhaya-Sundu-Bahuvidha-Samyati-Rahovadl Raudras-
- ANAMITRA III. One Anamitra, son of Vrsni is refer-
van-Anadhrsti. red to in Matsyapurana. He was the father of Sini.
Anadhrsti is a son born to Raudrasva by Misrakesi, an ANAMITRA IV. A son born to King Krosta and his
Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verses wife Madrl.
Apsar" woman. (M.B.,
8-12) Anadhrsti has two synonyms, Rceyu
.
and Anvag- ANAMITRA. Father of Caksusa, the Manu of the 6th
bhanu. Manvantara and son of sage Anamitra. (SeeAnanda).
ANADHRSTI II. Verse 58, Chapter 14 of Sabha Parva ANANATA. A sage. (Rgveda, Mandala 4, Sukta 175) .
mentions seven great Yadavas. One Anadhrsti is named ANANGA Son of Kardamaprajapati, and a king
I.
amongst the seven. This Anadhrsji was present at the reputed for his love of the people and unparallelled integ-
marriage of Abhimanyu at Ipaplavanagara. (M.B., rity. He had a son called Atibala. (M.B. Santi Parva,
(See
ANAGHA I. Son of He had
seven sons, by
Vasistfia. Katyapa, one of the Prajapatis born ofKadru. (M.B.,
his wife Urja. They were: Rajas, Gotra, Urdhvabahu, Adi Parva, Chapter 105, Verse 41). Also Balabhadra-
Savana, Anagha, Sutapas and Sukra. Holy characters, rama, elder brother of Sri Krsna was a partial incarna-
of the age of the third Manu. tion of Ananta.
they became the saptarsis
(Manvantara). 2) Differences with mother. Vinata and Kadru were
ANAGHA II. was a Gandharva. He participated in the two wives of Kasyapa prajapati. Garuda was born as
birthday celebrations of Arjuna. (M.B., Adi Parva, Vinata'sson and numerous serpents like Ananta, Vasuki,
Chapter 122, Verse 5o). Taksaka, Karkkofaka were sons of Kadru. Once a
ANAGHA III. A king called Anagha is referred to in controversy developed between Vinata and Kadru, the
Verse 22, Chapter 8 of M.B. latter saying that there were a few black hairs on the
ANAGHA IV. Skanda has a synonym, Anagha as well. tail of Airavata and the former
denying it. It was
(M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 232, Verse 5) .
agreed that she who proved wrong in the argument
ANAGHA V. A bird named Anagha is mentioned would become the slave of the other. To prove herself
among the children of Garuda. (M.B., Udyoga Parva, to be right Kadru, the same night, asked her sons to
Chapter 101, Verse 12). go and stay suspended in the hairs of Airavata's tail.
ANAGHA VI. Used as a synonym of Siva. (M.B., Some of the sons agreed to do so, while her other
Anusasana Parva, Chapter 1 7, Verse 38) .
(prominent) sons like Ananta expressed their disincli
ANAGHA VII. A synonym of Visnu. (M.B., Anusasana nation to do such an unethical act. Kadru cursed these
Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 29). disobedient children of hers to die at the serpent yajna
ANAGHAM. A place in ancient India. (M.B., Sabha of Janamejaya, whereupon Ananta and his supporters
Parva, Chapter 30, Verse 9) .
departed in sorrow. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 65).
ANAGNI(S). They are Pitrs. Pitrs like Agnisvattas, 3) Ananta's new engagement. Departing thus from his
Barhisads, Anagnis, Sagnis were offsprings of Brahma. mother Ananta visited sacred centres like Gandha-
Two damsels, Mena and Dharim were born to them madana, Badari and practised austerities. And, Brahma
of Svadha. (Agni Purana, Chapter 20) .
appeared before Ananta and asked him not to worry,
ANAL A I. A daughter of Daksa. Some of the other but to go to the nether world and support the world
daughters are Aditi, Dili, Danu, Kalika, Tamra, on his hoods. Brahma also told him that Garuda would
Krodhavasa, Manu and Anala. These daughters were render him all help in the new task. Blessed thus by
ANANTA II 35
Brahma, Ananta gladly took up the new job. (M.B., ANAPAYACOLA. A King of the Cola country, 1063-
Adi Parva, Chapter 36, Verse 24). 1112. The Tamil poet Sekhilar who composed the
4) Ananta has another abode in the palace of Varuna twelfth song of the great Saiva religious book called
in the west. (M.B., Udyoga Parva, Chapter 110, Verse Tirumurayil was a minister of this King.
18). ANARAKATlRTHA. A sacred pool. Brahma, along
5) Atlanta's
prowess. About Ananta's prowess Visnu with Visnu and others bathe daily in this sacred pool.
Parana has the following to say At the bottom of :
Therefore, it is said that the sins of all those who bathe
Patala there is a base (Tamasic) form of Visnu called in the pool will be washed off.
Adisesa. Even the Danavas and the Daityas are not ANARAJVYA (ANARAl^YA) . A
King of the Iksvaku
able to describe the attributes of that form. The dynasty. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 1, Verse 236).
Siddhas call Adisesa Ananta who is worshipped
this For genealogy, see IKSVAKU. Anaranya was a vege-
by Devas and rsis. Ananta has 1000 heads and the tarian. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 115, Verse 59) .
Svastika mark which is clearly visible is his ornament. Ravana once attacked his country whom he challenged
The 1000 gems in his head illuminate all regions, and to a duel. In the duel Anaranya died. Before dying he
he renders the Asuras powerless for the good of all the cursed Ravana that he would be killed by Rama, son
worlds. Adisesa whose eyes ever rotate due to the of King Dasaratha. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 45) .
overflow of his prowess, and who wears blue apparel ANARANYA. (See ANARAftYA) .
and garlands of white gems shines forth like another ANARKA(M) A king born in King Kaipla's dynasty.
.
Mount Kailasa beautified with garlands of clouds and (Agni Purana, Chapter 2 78).
by the flow of the Gaiiga. Sri Devi and Varuni Devi serve ANASA (ASAMGA) A brother of Akrura. (Bhagavata,
.
Ananta who holds in one hand a larhgala and in the Dasama Skandha) .
and shiver. The Gandharvas, Nagas, Caranas etc. fail Devahuti and Prasuti and Devahuti was married to
to understand the real extent of his attributes, and that Kardama, son of Brahma. They begot two daughters,
is why this strange being is called Ananta (endless) It . Kala. and Anasuya. Marici married Kala and Atri
was by worshipping Ananta and by his grace that sage married Anasuya. (Bhagavata, Skandha 1, Chapter 4).
Garga was able to master the sciences of astronomy 2) The Tapassakti of Anasuya. Once upon a time, rains
and causation (nimitta). (Visnu Purana, Part 2, having failed for ten years the whole world sweated in
Chapter 5) .
agony and river Gangl got dried up. Famine stalked the
6) The land qf Ananta. Ananta's world, and
Patala is world. In this dire contingency it was the tapassakti of
at its bottom there is a spot called Ananta. That spot Anasuya that made trees bear fruits and Ganga to flow
is 30000 yojanas in extent, and here lives Ananta. He is again. Also, she converted ten days into nights on the
known as Sankarsana also. He bears the whole nether request of the Devas.
world as though it were a mustard seed. And, when During their forest life Rama and Slta reached the her-
he thinks of destroying the entire world the Rudra mitage of sage Atri, and the sage and Anasuya treated
called Saiikarsana will appear with other Rudras and the guests sumptuously. The above story about the
weapons like tridents (Trisula). Other serpents bow at tapassakti of Anasuya was told then by Atri. The story
the feet of Ananta, who is supremely beautiful with helped to increase Rama's respect for Anasuya. Anasuya
divine lustre. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 8) .
gave Slta all proper advice. She taught Slta that abso-
ANANTA II. A
synonym of the Sun God. (M.B., Vana lute service to husband is the greatest tapas ordained
Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 24) . to women. Anasuya gave to Slta a very sacred garland
ANANTA III. A Sri Krsna. (M.B., Udyoga
synonym of and a sublime gem. And, after that Rama and Slta left
Parva, Chapter 70, Verse 14). the hermitage. (Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhyakanda,
ANANTA IV. One of the military captains of Skanda. Cantos 117 and 118.).
(M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 57) .
3) Sons of Anasuya. She had three sons: Datt'treya,
ANANTA V. A synonym of Visnu. (M.B., Anusasana Durvasas and Candra. (Visnu Purana, Part 1, Chapter
Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 83). 10) (The reason for Mahavisnu being born as Datr.t-
.
ANANTA VI. A synonym of Siva. (M.B., Anusasana reya, Siva as Durvasas and Brahma as Candra to
Parva, _Chapter 17, Verse 135). Anasuya is given under Atri) .
ANANTA. Wife of Janamejaya, son of King Puru. ANAUPAMYA. Wife of Banasura. Once she developed
ANANTA. The abode of Ananta in the nether regions. an amorous interest in Narada. which led to some
(Devi Bhagavata, Canto 8). (There are certain indica- domestic quarrels. (Padma Purana, Adikfinda, Chapter
tions that Ananta refers to Trivandrum, Capital city of 14).
the Kerala State. Explanations of words like Svarga, ANAVADYA. Wife of KaSyapa, this Apsar" woman
Bhumi, Patala, Ananta, Deva, Asura, throw much light participated in the birthday celebrations of Arjuna.
on this inference). (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 122, Verse 62).
ANANTAVIJAYAM. The conch of Dharmaputra. It AI^DA.* Suta, the disciple of Vyasa said to the Munis
was blown during the great war. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, at the Naimisaranya about the creation of the Universe:
Chapter 25, Verse 15). In the beginning in the heavy universal darkness, the
^DA. The primal seed (Anda=egg or seed) from which everything was born.
ANDAKATAHA 36 ANDHRAKA III
gees to Andha. As punishment for this sin Visvamitra ANDHAKARAKA (M ) A place in the island of Kraunca.
.
had once to go to hell. This story was related by (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 18) .
Krsna to Arjuna during the great war at Kuruksetra, ANDHAKARAM. A mountain in the island of Kraunca.
and the reason for telling the story was this: During (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 22).
the fight Arjuna hesitated to aim' arrows against Karna. ANDHAKUPA (M). In the Devi Bhagavata Mahavisnu
Enraged by this attitude of Arjuna Dharmaputra asked describes 28 hells to Narada, and Andhakupam is one
him to hand over his famous bow, Gandiva Krsna.
to Sri of them, (see Naraka). Andhakupa is reserved for those
Feeling insulted at this demand Arjuna, all on a sud- who kill either Brahmins or devotees of God or Sannya-
den, drew his sword to do away with Dharmaputra. sins(holy people). This hell abounds in cruel beasts
Sri Krsna, prevented Arjuna from attacking his noble like the bear and leopard, evil birds like the eagle,
brother, and in this context related the above story to reptiles like the snake and scorpion and dirty insects
prove the truth that sins committed even unwittingly like bugs and mosquitos. The sinner will have to put
will lead one, as in the case of Visvamitra to hell. up with all these sufferings in hell till the period of his
( M.B., Kama Parva, Chapter 69) .
punishment expires. (Devi Bhagavata, Astama
ANDHA III. Upamanyu, the excellent disciple of Skandha).
Dhaumya, consumed the leaves of a tree which made ANDHATAMISRA. One of the 28 hells. (See Naraka).
him blind. (See Ayodhadhaumya) (M.B., Adi Parva, This hell destined for wives who cheat their husbands
is
Chapter 3) . and consume food and for husbands who cheat their
ANDHAKA I. There was a very renowned king called wives and eat food. Agents of Yama get hold of
Andhaka Yadu dynasty. All kings belonging to
in the such sinners and push them into the Andhatamisra. As
dynasty used to be called Andhakas.
this the cords of the agents with which they bind the sin-
ANDHAKA II. Verse 12, Chapter 4 of M.B., Udyoga ners get tighter around their bodies they faint and fall
Parva refers to another King called Andhaka. The down owing to unbearable pain. When they regain
Pandavas had sent to him a messenger soliciting mili- consciousness and try to run away and escape, the
tary help. Agents of Yama again bind them with the cord. (Devi
ANDHAKA III. An Asura. Bhagavata, Astama Skandha).
1
) Birth. This Asura was the foster son of Hiranyaksa. ANDHRA (ANDHRA) This is the Andhra Pradesh in
.
Siva was really his father. While once Siva was modern India. It has to be surmised that this place was
immersed in yoga his daughter closed his eyes play- very famous during the period of the composition of the
fully with her hands, and lo a darkness rose and ! Mahabharata. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse
enveloped the whole place. From that darkness, with 49).
a sound as that of thunderbolt, appeared a Raksasa. ANDHRA. Warriors from Andhra were called Andhras.
He got the name Andhaka as he was born from dark- (M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 8).
ness. At that time Hiranyaksa was doing
tapas for a ANDHRAKA I. Verse 24, Chapter 4 of Sabha Parva,
son. Siva appeared before him and bestowing on him describes this king of Andhra Desa as having sat in the
Andhaka as a foster son said as follows: "If he assembly hall of the palace constructed by Maya at
(Andhaka) earns the hatred of the world or desires Indraprastha for the Pandavas. He was also present at
even the mother of the three worlds or kills brahmins the Rajasuya Yajna performed by Yudhisfhira. (M.B.,
I will myself burn him to ashes". After saying this Sabha Parva, Chapter 34, Verse 11 ).
Siva disappeared. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 63). ANDHRAKA II. The
Andhra Desa were
warriors of
2 ) Andhaka desires Pdrvati with lust. One day overcome Andhrakas also. (M.B., Karna Parva, Chapter
called
by erotic passion Andhaka said to his henchmen as 20, Verses 10 and 1 1) In the Bharata war the King of
.
follows : "He is my true friend who brings Siva's Pandya defeated those warriors. Krsna incited Arjuna
consort, Parvati to me. Yes, he is my brother, nay, to kill the Andhras and the Pulindas. (M.B., Karna
father even." Hearing these ravings .. of -, Andhaka, Parva, Chapter 73, Verses 19 to 21) .
Prahlada went to him and convinced him that Parvati, ANDHRAKA III. Andhrakas are classed with Mlec-
ANENAS I 37 ANGALAMMA
chas (lowest caste of oblations. Holy seers said that the Gods refused to
people) in Verse 42, Chapter 207
of Santi Parva. by the King because he was
accept the oblations offered
ANENAS I. A king of the Lunar dynasty (Candra childless. So he performed the sacrifice called Putraka-
Varhsa) .
mesti (Sacrifice to get a son) and from the sacrificial
1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following fire arose a divine person with a golden flask of pud-
order: Brahma - Atri - Candra -'fiudha- Pururavas- ding, which he offered to the King and his queen. The
Ayus-Anenas. King and the queen Sunitha ate the pudding, as a
2) Birth. Puriiravas had by his wife Urvasi six sons result of which a son was born to them. He was named
named Ayus, Srutayus, Satyayus, Raya, Vijaya and Vena. This son was wicked. Because of his wickedness
Jaya. Of them, Ayus, the eldest, had five sons named the King became so miserable that he left his kingdom
Nahusa, Ksatravrddha, Raji, Rambha and Anenas. and went on a pilgrimage. Since there was no other
Nahusa had a son named Yayati to whom were born means the people enthroned Vena, who tortured his
the sons Puru, Yadu and others. The two dynasties of subjects beyond limit. (Bhagavata, 4th Skandha, Chap-
Yadu and Puru (Yaduvamsa and Puruvarhsa) origi- ters Band 14).
nate from them. To Anenas brother of Nahusa, a son ANGADA I. A son of Bali.
named Suddha was born. Suddha begot Suci who be- 1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following
got Trikakup and a son named Santarayas was born to order Brahma-Kasyapa-Indra-Bali-Arigada.
:
Adrupa and Anasabhu are the seven sons born to Bali, d) In the battle between Rama and Ravana Angada
the son of Sutapas, combated with Indrajit. (Ramayana, Yuddhakanda).
by his wife Sutesna, and the King
Atiga is one of them. There is a story about the birth e) After his combat with Indrajit, Angada and his
of these sons. followers led an attack on the army of Ravana. (Rama-
Once there lived a hermit named Utatthya. He was yana, Yuddhakanda).
the elder brother
ofBrhaspati. One day when Mamata, f) After the battle, Sri Rama anointed Angada as the
Utatthya 's wife, was pregnant, Brhaspati approached heir-apparent to the Kingdom of Kiskindha. The neck-
her with carnal desires. In spite of her efforts to dis- lace which Bali had given on his death to Sugrlva, was
suade her brother-in-law from his attempts she could not returned to Angada. (Uttara Ramayana) .
prevail upon him. He forced her and satisfied his desire. g) Sri Rama returned to Ayodhya after his forest
The child in her womb protested and kicked the sperm life and celebrated a horse sacrifice. The sacrificial
ofBrhaspati out into the floor. Brhaspati got angry and horse was caught and detained by King Suratha. Com-
cursed the child in the womb: "May you fall in perpe- ing to know of this Satrughna sent Angada to deal
tual darkness". So the child was born blind and with Suratha, who said that the horse was detained
remained blind throughout his life. Hence he got the with the intention of meeting with Sri Rama personally.
name 'Dirghatamas'. Dirghatamas married Pradvesi. A Angada returned and told Satrughna what Suratha had
son named Gautama was born to them. The duty of said to him. (Padma Purana, Pa.ta.la Khanda) .
supporting Dirghatamas fell upon the wife and the son, ANGADA There was a prince called Angada among
II.
who put him on a raft and pushed him astray into the the mighty men-of-arms on the side of the Kauravas.
River Ganges. King Bali, who was bathing in the river He got into action on the battle-field on the twelfth day
saw this. He rescued the hermit and took him to the of the battle. (M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter 25, Stanza
palace and pleasing him by hospitality, requested him 38).
to beget children in his wife Sutesna, who detesting the
idea sent a Sudra woman Dhatreyi in her stead and
ANGADA HI. Srutakirti the wedded wife of Satru-
eleven children were born to them. By and by Dirgha- ghna, brother of Sri Rama, had two sons called Aiigada
and Chandraketu. (Uttara Ramayana).
tamas came to know of the deceit played by Sutesna on
him and he became very angry. But the King pacified ANGADA IV. In the Bhagavata we see another Angada
him and pleased him again and Dirghatamas begot five who was the son of Gada, the brother of Krsna by his
sons by Sutesna. They were Aiiga, Vanga, Kaliiiga, wife, Brhatl.
Paundra and Suhma. Dirghatamas blessed them that they ANGAKARMA. Actions on the stage are of two kinds.
would become very famous. Anga, Vanga, Kalinga, One to express
is by the major organs of the body. The
Paundra and Suhma were the five kingdoms ruled by other is to express by the minor organs of the body. Head
etc. are major organs and eyebrow etc. are minor
Aiiga, Vanga, Kalinga, Paundra and Suhma respectively.
These five are the famous Kings of the Bali family. organs. Actions expressed by major organs are called
(Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 104). Aiigakarma and those by minor organs are called Prat-
3) How Aiiga got children. Once Anga performed a yaiiga Karma. (Agni Purana, Chapter 341).
horse sacrifice. But the gods did not appear to receive ANGALAMMA. She is the wife of Virabhadra, a servant
ANGA(M) 38 ANGARAJAVAMSA
of Siva. She has a rope in her left hand, with which she and Murhger in Bihar had its capital at Campapurl and
hauls up the spirits of the dead. that country had often stretched from Vaidya-
the
ANGA(M). The kingdom ruled by King Ahga. Other nathan'irna to Bhuvanesvar.
details: (2) Arjuna had visited the Kingdom of Ahga also during
1
)
The Dynasty. The first King of the Ariga dynasty his pilgrimage. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 219, Stanza
was Anga the son of Bali. Anagabhu, Draviratha, 9).
Dharmaratha, Romapada (LomapTida) Caturahga, , (3) The King of Ahga was present at the sacrifice of
Prthulaksa, Brhadratha, Brhanmanas, Jayadratha, Rajasuya (Royal consecration) celebrated by Dharma-
Vijaya, Drdhavrata, Satyakarma, Atiratha, Karna, putra, when the Pandavas were living at Indraprastha.
Vrsasena and others were kings of this dynasty. Karna (M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter 52, Stanza 16) .
was the adopted son of Atiratha. During the period of (4) On one occasion Sri Krsna defeated the Ahgas in a
the Mahabharata, Kings of the Atiratha family were battle. (M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter 11, Stanza 15).
under the sway of the Candra varhsa (Lunar dynasty) (5) Parasurama had defeated the Ahgas once. (M.B.,
kings such as Dhrtarastra and Pandu. (For further in- Drona Parva, Chapter 7, Stanza 12).
formations see the word Atiratha) .
(6) In the battle of Kuruksetra between the Pandavas
2) How Kama became the king of Anga. A contest in and the Kauravas, on the sixteenth day of the battle,
archery and the wielding of other weapons was going the heroes of Ahga made an onslaught on Arjuna. (M.B.,
on in Hastinapura, the competitors being the Kauravas Karna Parva, Chapter 17, Stanza 12).
and the Pandavas. The status of Karna, who appeared ( 7) The Ahgas attacked the armies of Dhrstadyumna
on the side of the Kauravas, was questioned by the and the King of Pancala. (M.B., Karna Parva, Chapter
Pandavas on the occasion and Duryodhana, who always 22, Stanza 2) .
stood on his dignity, anointed Karna as the King of (8) A low caste man from Ahga attacked Bhlma, who
Anga, on the spot. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 136) . man and his elephant. (Mahabharata,
killed the Drona
3) Drought in the kingdom of Ariga. Lomapada ( Roma- Parva, Chapter 26, Stanzas 14 to 17).
pada) the king of Ahga once deceived a hermit Brahmin. ANGAMALAJA (M) ( MALADA KARtJSA )
.
Lomapada was a friend of Dasaratha. (Mahabharata, from that day onwards. One part of the country was
Aranya Parva, Chapters 110 to 113). called Malada and the other part Karusa. Indra, having
4) How the Kingdom got the name Ariga. One opinion is been purified by washing in water returned to heaven
that the Kingdom got its name from the King Ahga with the gods. After that this country became uninha-
who ruled over it. Another opinion is that the king got bited for a long time. The horrible Tataka lives in this
his name from the country he ruled. However there is forest now". (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga
a story revealing how the country came to be called 24).
Ahga. ANGAPRADAKSINA. Rolling behind a chariot round
In the realm of God, preliminary steps were the temple as a vow.
being taken
for making Sri Paramesvara wed Parvati. According to A
ANGARA. king of ancient India. He was defeated by
the instructions of Devendra, Kamadeva Mandhata
(the Lord of a battle. in (Mahabharata, Santi Parva,
Love Cupid) was trying to break the meditation of Siva Chapter 29, Stanza 88).
and when Siva opened his third eye, fire emitted from ANGARAJAVAMSA. (THE DYNASTY OF AftGA
it and Anahga (Kamadeva) was burned to ashes. It KINGS) . Descended from Visnu in the following order:
was in the country of Ahga that the ashes of the 'ahga' Brahma - Atri-Candra-Budha-Pururavas-Ayus - Nahusa-
(Body) of Kamadeva fell and from that day onwards Yayati. Yadu, Turvasu, Druhyu and Anudruhyu were
the country came to be called
Ahga and Kamadeva, the four sons of Yayati. The Ahga dynasty starts from
'Anahga' (without body). (Valmiki Ramayana, Bala- Turvasu, one of the four. The following are the descen-
kanda, Sarga 26) .
dants of Turvasu. Varga was the son of Turvasu,
Other informations.
5) Gobhanu, the son of Varga, Traisani the son of Gobhanu,
1 is mentioned in
It the Hindi Dictionary, 'Sabda
( ) Karandhama, the son of Traisani, Marutta, the son of
Sagara' that the kingdom of Ahga embracing Bhagatpur Karandhama, Dusyanta, the son of Marutta, Varutha,
ANGARAKA I 39 ANGARAKA
the son of Dusyanta, Gandira the son of Varutha, and her. She replied with a deep "The
pig you saw,
sigh.
Gandara the son of Gandira. The five powerful peoples, is my father Arigarakasura. body is as hard as
His
the Gandharas, the Colas, the Keralas, the Pandyas diamond and not vulnerable to any sort of weapon.
and the Kolas have descended from Gandhara. These maids have been caught by him from various
Two sons, Druhyu and Babhrusetu were born to Gandhara. royal houses and brought here for my help. My name
Babhrusetu begot Purovasu; Purovasu begot Gandhari. is Arigaravati.
My father was changed to a giant by a
From Gandhari Gharma was born, from Gharma Ghrta curse. Nowhe is asleep discarding the form of pig.
was born, from Ghrta Vidusa was born, and fromVidusa When hewakes up, filled with hunger and thirst, he
Pracetas was born. Pracetas got a hundred children of will do you harm. My tears flowed out in the form of
whom the prominent were Anidra, Sabhanara, Caksusa and heated life-breaths, when I thought of these things."
Paramesu. To Sabhanara was born Kalanala and Srn- The King said, "Go and sit by him and cry when he
jaya to Kalanala, Puranjaya to Srnjayaandjanamejaya wakes up. He will ask the reason. Then tell him that
to Puranjaya. Mahasala was the son of Janamejaya; you had been crying, when you thought how forlorn
Mahamanas the son of Mahasala, and Usinara the son you would be without a mate, in case your father was
of Mahamanas. To Usinara were born Nrga, Nara, killed by somebody". Arigaravati did as she was told.
Krmi, Suvrata and Sibi by his wives Nrga, Nara, Krmi, Hearing her words Arigaraka said, "My daughter No !
Dasa and Drsadvati respectively. To Sibi were born body can kill me. My body is made of diamond. There
four sons called Prthudarbha, Viraka, Kaikaya and is only one vulnerable
point in my body which is on
Bhadraka. Four separate kingdoms arose in the names my left forearm and it is always covered with my
of them. Usinara had another son called Titiksu. From bow."
Titiksu was born Rusadratha; from Rusadratha was The king hid himself closely and heard everything. He
born Paila, from Paila was born Sutapas and from fought with the Asura and hitting at the vulnerable
Sutapas was born the great hermit Bali. From Bali, point killed him. The king married Arigaravati and
Ariga, Variga, Kaliiiga, Pundra, Baleya and Balayogi took her to his palace. Two sons were born to him.
were born. To Ariga was born Dadhivahana. The King They were called Gopalaka and Palaka. By the grace
Draviratha was the son of Dadhivahana, Dharmaratha of Indra a daughter also was born to him by her and
the son of Draviratha, Citraratha the son of Dharma- she was Vasavadatta, the wife of the famous Udayana.
ratha, and Satyaratha was the son of Citraratha. To (Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukhalambaka, Tarariga 3) .
Satyaratha was born Lomapada; to Lomapada was ANGARAKA II. A prince named Arigaraka is seen to
born Caturariga; to Caturariga was born Prthulaksa, to have been the descendant of Jayadratha, the King of
Prthulaksa was born Campa; to Campa was born Har- Sauvlra. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 265,
yariga, to Haryanga was born Bhadraratha, to Bhadra- Stanza 10).
ratha was born Brhatkarma, to Brhatkarma was born ANGARAKA III. A planet named Marigala which is a
Brhadbhanu, to Brhadbhanu was born Brhadatma, satellite of Brahma is seen to have been called by the
to Brhadatma was born Jayadratha, to Jayadratha was name Arigaraka also. (Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
born Brhadratha and to Brhadratha was born Visvajit. Chapter 11, Stanza 29).
After that Kama became the King of Ariga. The son of ANGARAKA IV. We see one Arigaraka among the one
Kama was Vj-sasena and the son of Vrsasena was hundred and eight sons of the Sun. (Mahabharata,
Prthusena. These are the kings of the Ariga dynasty. Vana Parva, Chapter 3, Stanza 10) .
wife in due course. As you do horrible deeds, you will Other details. This giantess Arigaraka had a clash once,
be called Candamahasena". He was given the sword with Hanuman. Sugrlva had sent a large number of
and a tusker called Nadagiri. One day Mahasena went monkeys under the leadership of Hanuman to search
to the forest for hunting. He saw a very large pig. The for Sita. He gave Hanuman certain instructions regard-
King used his arrows. But they did little harm to the ing the route he had to follow. Sugrlva said, ''There is
pig. Moreover it turned the chariot of the King over a giantess in the middle of that Southern Sea. Her
to one side and ran to a cave. The King followed it name is Angara. She pulls the shadow towards her and
with fury. On the way he sat on the bank of a lake feeds on the object of the shadow."
with wonder, for a lady of exquisite beauty was walk- From this it is clear that she was a giantess who lived
ing along the mossy turf in the midst of some maids. in the sea between Larika and South India. She knew
Slowly she approached the King and talked with him. the art of bringing to her side, anybody who passed
The young lady had entirely captured the heart of the over the sea, by pulling at his shadow. When Hanuman
King, who told her everything. She began to weep. jumped to Larika from the mountain of Mahendra the
"Who are you? Why do you weep?" The King asked giantess attacked Hanuman. It is seen that the name
ANGARA (M) 40 ANGIRAS I
Simhika also is used for Arigaraka. Hanuman who was when Sri Krsna was having his game of love
the time
subjected to the excessive attraction of Sirhhika, felt a Gopa women. On one night one serpent bit
with the
great storm raging round him. Finally he found her out, Nanda the foster father of Sri Krsna. The cowherds
a monster with such an uncouth face and a mouth as or gopas hit at the snake with burned wood. But it was
wide as the hole of Patala (the nether world). There of no use. Sri Krsna came there and thrashed the
was a terrible fight between Hanuman and the monster, serpent, which instantly took the form of Sudarsana
in which Simhika, fell on the ground beaten. After the Vidyadhara and praising Sri Krsna entered heaven.
fight Hanuman resumed his journey. (Valmlki Rama- (Bhagavata, Skandha 10, Chapter 34).
yana, Sundarakanda, Sarga 1, Stanzas 178 to 186). (3) A/igiras a Prajapati. Brahma had created sixteen
ANGARA (M). A countryside in ancient India. (Maha- prajapatis, for effecting the creation of the universe.
bharata, Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 60). Angiras is one of them. Their names are given below:
ANGARAPARtfA. (Citraratha) See the word CITRA- 1
) Kardama 9) Pulastya
RATHA I. 2) Vikrlta 10) Angiras
ANGARA VATl. (See ANGARAKA) .
3) Sesa 11) Pracetas
ANGAVAHA. A king of immense fame, belonging to the 4) Samsraya 12) Pulaha
dynasty of Vrsni. Angavaha attended^ with Balabhadra- 5) Sthanu 13) Daksa
rfima, the sacrifice of Raj asuya (Royal consecration) 6) Marlci 14) Vivasvan
celebrated by Yudhisthira. ( Mahabharata, Sab ha Parva, 7) Atri 15) Arisfanemi
Chapter 34, Stanza 16). 8) Kratu 16) Kasyapa
ANGIRAS I.
(Valmiki Ramayana, Aranyakanda, Sarga 14).
1
)
He is a hermit born from the mind of Brahma.
Birth. (4) The wives and children of Angiras. Angiras had
Six mind-born sons (Manasa-Putras) were born to several wives such as Subha, Smrti, Sraddha, Devasena
Brahma, known as Marlci, Angiras, Atri, Pulastya, and Vasudha. The names of the sons of Angiras are
Pulaha, and Kratu. All the six of them became great given below:
hermits. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 65, 1
)
Brhatkirti 5) Brhadmantra
Stanza 10) *. 2) Brhatjyoti 6) Brhadbhasa
2) Important events. 3) Brhadbrahma 7) Brhaspati.
(1) The failure of Angiras. There was a King named 4) Brhadmana
Citraketu in the kingdom of Surasena. Once Angiras The names of the eight daughters of Angiras are given
reached his palace when the King was in a miserable below :
teased Angiras calling him 'durbhaga' (unlucky) and Virocana was the son of Prahlada ; Sudhanva the son
Angiras cursed him and changed him to a big serpent of Angiras and Virocana fell in love with the same
and he was promised liberation from the curse, when, woman once. There arose a contention between these
during the dvapara yuga (one of the four ages) Maha- two as to who was greater. They staked their lives on
visnu would incarnate as Sri Krsna and would tread the issue. Then both of them together approached Prah-
upon him and then he would regain his former form. lada and requested him to give a decision as to which
From that day onwards Sudarsana lived on the banks of them was the elder. Thinking that Prahlada might side
of the river Kalindi in the form of a serpent. It was with Virocana his son, Sudhanva said to him, "Sir,
*There is another story about the birth of Angiras. At a sacrifice celebrated by Rudra, seminal flow occurred to Brahma who
happened to see some celestial maids and was overpowered by passionate feelings. Brahma put the sperm in the fire. From that fire appeared
Angiras along with Marici, Bhrgu and others. This deva (the shining one the God) was called Angiras because his origin was from Angara
or Cinder.
ANGIRAS I 41 ANGIRAS I
you should not utter words of falsehood, nor should you Devika, Svarnabindu, Hiranyabindu, Indratoya, and
abstain from speaking the truth. If you do so your head such other numerous tirthas. (Mahabharata, AnuSasana
will be cut into a hundred pieces by Indra with his Parva, Chapter 25, Stanzas 7-71).
Vajrayudha (the weapon of thunderbolt)". Hesitating 3) Other details:
to take a decision, because of the words of Sudhanva, (
1
)
Daksa gave
his two daughters in marriage to
Prahlada went to Kaiyapa to clear his doubts, and Ahgiras. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 7).
asked: "Lord, do you know which are the future worlds (2) Angiras once saved the Sun. (Mahabharata,
destined for those who utter words of falsehood or abstain Vana Parva, Chapter 92, Stanza 6) .
from giving out the truth ?" Kasyapa said, "On him, who (3) While the Pandavas were in exile in forest, Ahgiras
abstains from speaking truth knowingly a thousand cords had been chanting and meditating in Alakananda in
of death will fall. He who tells falsehood will have the region of the mount Gandhamadana. (Maha-
to perform many a deed of duty to attain heaven." bharata, Aranya Parva, Chapter 142, Stanza 6).
Having heard the words of Kasyapa, Prahlada said to (4) When the hermits had stolen the lotus flowers of
Virocana, "Virocana, Sudhanva is greater than you. Agastya, Ahgiras gave some hints about the culprits.
Ahgiras is greater than me. Likewise the mother of ( Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 94, Stanza
Sudhanva is nobler than your mother. So according to 20: See Agastya).
your bet you owe your life to Sudhanva." Pleased at (5) Aiigiras once gave a discourse on fasting and the
the righteousness of Prahlada, Sudhanva gave Virocana merits of fasting. (Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva,
a boon to live a hundred years more. (Mahabharata, Chapter 106, Stanzas 11 to 16).
Sabha Parva, Chapter 63) .
(6) Angiras on another occasion delivered lectures on
(6) HowAngiras became the first son of Agni (Fire God). the secrets of duties. (Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva,
Once Arigiras was blazing out as a furious being. All Chapter 127, Stanza 8) .
the worlds were illuminated by that flame-fire. As (7) Once Ahgiras drank
the water in the ocean to the
Aiigiras was performing the functions of Agni (fire), last (Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter
drop.
peoples of the worlds discarded Agni, who being sad at 153, Stanza 3).
the derision shown towards him by the worlds went to (8) When his thirst was not quenched, even though he
a forest and hid himself there. The living beings had drunk the entire water available in the world, he
were in trouble owing to lack of fire. When he became created new springs of water again and drank them dry.
aware of this Ahgiras went to the forest and pacified (Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 153, Stanza
Agni. From that day onwards Angiras agreed to be- 3).
come the first son of Agni, who resumed his duties as ( 9) Once Agni failed to show respect to Ahgiras, who
usual. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 217) . cursed Agni and thenceforward smoke came out from
(7) How Angiras got the name Atharvangiras. After the fire. (Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 153,
slaughter of Vrtrasura, Indra went to the lake known Stanza 8) .
as Amrtasaras and hid himself there in a lotus flower. At (10) Ahgiras conducted many of the important sacrifices
this time the Gods anointed Nahusa as Indra. Agastya of King Aviksit. (Mahabharata, Asvamedhika Parva,
cursed him and turned him to a serpent and sent Chapter 4, Stanza 22).
him to the earth. When Indra returned to heaven many (11) Indra once gave Ahgiras a boon. (Mahabharata,
persons gathered there to greet him. Angiras also was Udyoga Parva, Chapter 18, Stanzas 5 to 7) .
one among them who did obeisance to Indra. He paid (12) Ahgiras blessed Dhruva who had been doing
his homage by reciting the hymns of Atharvaveda. Indra penance. (Visnu Purana, Amsa 1, Chapter 11).
who was greatly pleased at this, said to Aiigiras, "Here- (13) The daughters named Sinivali, Kuhu, Raka,
after you shall be known as Atharvangiras". Angiras Anumati were born to Ahgiras by his wife Smrti. (Agni
who got this boon from Indra, returned with gratitude. Purana, Chapter 20) .
(Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 18, Stanzas 5 14) Ahgiras the of the Agni devas (Fire-Gods)
is first
to 7).
and a hermit. He had a son called Hiranya-Stupa, who
(8) Angiras and Drona. In the battle of Kuruksetra, also was a hermit (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 7,
between the Pandavas and the Kauravas the great Sukta 31).
teacher, Drona began to release his divine darts towards
his enemies in all directions. Immediately Ahgiras with (15) The Hermit Ahgiras began
invoke the Gods toto
get a son equal to Indra. Then
Indra, thinking that
many other hermits came to Drona and told him,
"You have burned to death innumerable men with your nobody should be born as his equal, took birth as the
son of Angiras. He was called Savya. (Rgveda,
Brahmastra (The most powerful of all missiles). Your
Mandala 1, Anuvaka 10, Sukta 51).
end is very near. So put your weapons down and stop
Indra sent Sarama, the bitch of the Gods, to find
your fight." Drona seems to have paid no heed at all ( 16)
to the advice of the hermits. He did not stop fighting out the place where the cows had been hidden Indra ;
svata Manvantara he \vas born from Agni. him with longevity and then vanished. Several Munis in
(19) Once Yilyu (the Wind-God) had to run away the shape of birds came near Mandavya who was lying
from Angiras and hide himself as he had caused some on the trident and made enquiries about him. The King
displeasure to Angiras. On another occasion Angiras
came to know of all these stories. Full of repentance, he
taught philosophy and sacred doctrines to the hermit went and begged pardon of Mandavya. The attempt
Saunaka. (Mundakopanisad). to pull out the trident from
Mandavya's body failed. At
ANGIRAS 11. In the family of Marici, son of Brahma, last it was removed by
cutting it off. Since the tip (Ani)
another King of the name of Angiras is seen. of the trident was left behind in his body he was there-
Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following afterknown as "Ani Mandavya". (M.B., Adi Parva,
order :Brahma, Marici, Kasyapa, Vaivasvata Manu, Chapter 107) .
Uttanapada, Dhruva, Sisti, Ripu, Caksusa Manu, 2) Curse on Dharma. After going about in the world
Uru, Angiras. (About this Angiras, no other informa- for many years with the tip of the trident in his body,
tion is available in the Puranas. Visnu Purana, Arhsa Ani Mandavya once asked Dharma "Oh! Lord, why
:
(M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 18). He was a punishment inflicted on me is wrong. As the murder
king of the Anga dynasty. (Agni Purana, Chapter 277). of a Brahmin is a greater sin than any other murder,
ANlKINl. A division of the army. (See under AKSAU- may you be born as a man in the 'Sudra Caste'."
Hiyl). By the above curse of Mandavya, Dharma was born a
ANILA I. One of the Asta (8) Vasus. His father was son of a Sudra woman. It was this child who later on
Dharma and mother Svasa. Anila married Siva and had became the renowned Vidura of the Mahabharata.
two sons, Manojava and Avijnati. (M.B., Adi Parva, (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 107) .
Chapter 66, Verses 17-25). 3) The story of how the Sun did not rise. When Ani
ANILA II. Garuda had a son called Anila. (M.B., Mandavya lay on the tip of the trident another event
Udyoga Parva, Chapter 101, Verse 9). happened. Atri Muni's son UgraSravas was the husband
ANILA III. A word used as a synonym of Siva. (M.B., of Silavatl. No other woman had so far surpassed
AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 100). Silavati in her fidelity to her husband. Once Ugrasravas
ANILA IV. A word used as a synonym of Visnu. (M.B.,
happened to fall ill. He expressed his desire to visit a
AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 38). prostitute's house. As he was too weak he could not walk.
ANILA V. A Ksatriya King. His father, Vrsadarbhi The devoted wife Silavati carried him on her own
presented him as Daksina to the Saptarsis (7 sages) at shoulders and took him to the prostitute's house. They
a yajna performed by him (father) The King expired
.
were passing near the piace where Ani Mandavya was
soon after this. There was then a famine in the country. lying on the trident. Coming to know of the matter,
The Saptarsis, tortured by hunger and thirst got ready
Mandavya pronounced a curse that UgraSravas should
to prepare food with the corpse of the King. But the die before sunrise. Silavati shuddered on hearing this.
corpse retained its form and they could not cook food Fearing that she would be widowed by the death of
with it. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 96)
UgrasVavas, she, in her turn, pronounced a curse that
.
ANlLA. A famous serpent. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter the Sun should not rise again.
35, Verse 7) .
Next day the sun did not rise. All activities came to a
ANlMAyDAVYA. standstill. At last the gods approached Atri Muni. They
1) General. How he got the name Animandavya. Once in uced Anasuya, Atri's wife to persuade Silavati to
there was a famous Brahmin n med Mandavya. He did withdraw her curse. Then the sun rose again and
Tapas (penance) for many years standing silent in
front of his Asrama, under a tree, raising his hands in
Ugrasravas died. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 42) .
Citralekha, her companion, and daughter of her father's Aftjana gave birth to Hanuman in the woods in a valley
minister, assured her (Usa) that whoever might be the on the southern side of Mahameru. She was frightened
prince who appeared in her dream shall be brought at the sight of the child shining like the sun. Hanuman
down with the power of Mantra. Citralekha drew the began to cry for mother's milk. Aiijana said to Hanu-
pictures of all princes known to her and showed them to man :
"Monkeys are fond of red ripe fruits. There-
Usa. The pictures represented all handsome men from fore eat whatever you find in red colour." Saying this
Devas to men. 'No, this is not my prince charming' was Aftjana transformed herself into a goddess and went to
Usa's reply. Then Citralekha drew the picture of Sri Krsna Heaven.
of Pradyumna. and then of Aniruddha. When Usa saw 2) Purvajanma Previous Birth In her
( )
.
previous
Aniruddha's picture she stretched her hands to embrace was a goddess named Punjikastala (Mana-
birth Aftjana
that. It was this prince who had appeared before her
garva) As a result of a curse, this goddess was born
.
The disappearance of Aniruddha led to much commotion Vamana and Kumuda. (This Airavata was not the
in Dvaraka. Then Narada reached Dvaraka and Airavata of Devendra). There are references to
gave
details about the Aniruddha incident. Sri Krsna and Raksasas coming to the battle-field on the back of
Pradyumna, in all rage, hurried to Bana's palace and elephants. There is another mention of Aftjana the
encircled his palace with a strong army. ThendidBana's
elephant standing in the battle-field. (M.B., Udyoga
flagstaff break into two and fell down. The fierce fight Parva, Chapter 99, Verse 15; Bhisma Parva, Chapter 64,
that ensued ended in the defeat of Bana. Aniruddha Verse 57; Drona Parva, Chapter 112, Verse 32).
married Usa and the elated couple started for Dvaraka. ANJANA(M). This is the name of a mountain. (M.B.,
Vajra was the son of Aniruddha. (Bhagavata, Dasatna Sabha Parva, Chapter 98, Verse 15).
Skandha, Chapters 61, 62 and 63) .
Trsna(desire) and Krodha (anger). (Agni Purana, ANUCAKRA. One of the two attendants deputed by
Chapter 20). Tvasta (a Prajapati) to help Skar.da in war, the other
ANTACARA(M). A in ancient India.
place (M.B., being Cakra. (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse
Bhlsma Parva, Chapter Verse 68).
9, 40). _
ANTAKA I. Once the Devas, under the auspices of ANUCANA. A nymph. This Devastri, along with other
emperor Prthu, turned goddess earth into a cow and nymphs came down on earth at the time of the birth
milked her. The result was twelve yamas, and Antaka of Arjuna and danced. (Adi Parva, Chapter 122,
was one of the twelve. (See Prthu). (M.B., Drona Verse "61).
Parva, Chapter 69, Verse 26) .
ANUDATTA. One of the five sons created by Panca-
ANTAKA II. The Rgveda makes mention of one janya for the Pitrs. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 220,
R;ijarsi, Antaka. (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 16, Verse 10).
Sukta'112). ANUDATTA (M), The fire (Agni) called Pancajanya
ANTAPALA. (SeeKETUMAN V). created the elements named Anudattas. Pancajanya
ANTARDHAMA. Son of King Arhsa of the Manu dy- generated these elements from his two hands with
nasty. He had a son called Havirdhama. (M.B., Anu- the help of his spiritual strength (tapassakti) (M.B., .
gasana Parva,Chapter 147, Verse 23). And for Vana Parva, Chapter 220, Verse 10) .
named.'i.e., Bharata. Bharata had 9 younger brothers, Anuhlada, Hlada, Prahlada and Sarhhlada. (Visnu
namely Kusavarta, Havana, Brahmavarta, Malaya, Purana, ArriSa 1, Chapter 15 and Agni Purana, Chap-
Ketu, Bhadrasena, Indrasprk, Vidarbha and Klkafa. * ter 19).
These brothers had nine younger brothers who were all ANUKARMA. A Visvadeva. (M.B., Anusasana Parva,
highly evolved yogis. They were Kavi, Hari, Anta- Chapter 91, Verse 39).
riksa, Prabuddha, Pippalayana, Avirhotra, Dramida, ANUKRAMA1VIKA PARVA. The Mahabharata is di-
Camasa and Karabhajana. (Bhagavata, Pancama vided into 18 parvans. The first of them is called Adi
Skandha, Chapteis 1-4). Parva and the first of its many sub-divisions is nartied
*Ramanuja's Bhagavata (Malayalam) mentions one Aryavarta also as Bharata's younger brother. But (the name does not occur in the
original. ^See Bhagavata, Chapter 4, Verse 10.)
ANUMATI 45 APARAKAS1
Anukramanika Parva. And, in this parva (Chapter) and fighting on the side of the Kauravas. (BhSgavata,
Ugrasravas (Sutanandaria) son of Lomaharsana begins Dasama Skandha, Chapter 58, Verses 30, 31).
telling the Bharata story at the yajna (of 12 years' ANUVINDA III. The Mahabharata refers to another
duration) held by Kulapati Saunaka at the forest of prince Anuvinda also. He was the son of a Kekaya-
Naimisa. Vyasa composing the Mahabharata, the raja. He also fought against the Pandavas and was
creation of the world, the greatness of the Mahabharata, killed by Satyaki. (M.B., Kama Parva, Chapter 13,
Vyasa teaching his disciples the Mahabharata all this Verse 21).
comes in this narration. ( See Mahabharata) . ANUVINDA. A wife of Sri Krsna. ( Padma Purana) .
ANUMATI. Daughter of Angiras, son of Brahma. Angiras ANUYAYI. One of the 100 sons of Dhrtarastra. He is
had .two wives, Smrti and Khyati and four daughters, , called Agrayayi also; he was killed in battle by Bhima-
Anumati, Raka, Kuhu and Sinlvali by Smrti, and three sena. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 102;
sons, Ucatthya, Brhaspati, Sarhvarta by Khyati. (Visnu Chapter 116, Verse 11 and Drona Parva, Chapter 157,
Purana, Part 1, Chapter 10). Verses 17-20).
ANUMLOCA. Anapsaras. (Harivamsa 326) .
ANVAGBHANU. A King of the Puru dynasty. (For
ANUPAKA. A warrior from Anupa(m). genealogy see Puru dynasty) Puru had three sons,
.
Tristup and Parikti. (Visnu Purana, Part II, Chapter Sage) . He was born
out of the sound 'bhu' uttered by
8). Mahavisnu. The sage is also known as Sarasvata and
ANUVINDA I. One of the 100 sons of Dhrtarastra. Apantaratamas. Because he was absolutely free from
There a story in the Mahabharata about his being
is inner darkness or ignorance he was called Apantara-
imprisoned along with Duryodhana. Knowing that the tamas. The sage, who was cognizant of the past, the
Pandavas were living in the forest in all comfort and present and the future divided and systematized the
happiness Duryodhana and others went in precession to Vedas as ordered by Visnu.
them. Anuvinda also was in the procession. While 2) Vyasa was Apantaratamas reborn. Mahavisnu
Duryodhana and party were staying in a tent in the ordained that in the Dvapara age he be born as the
forest, a Gandharva named Citrasena appeared on the son of Parasara and once again divide and systematize
scene and imprisoned them. Anuvinda too was im- the Vedas, and so was he born as Vyasa. (Sri Saiikara's
prisoned. (See Citrasena). (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter Mundakopanisad and Brahmasutra Bhasya) .
(M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter 127, Verse 66) . of Apantaratamas. (See Aplntaratamas) .
(2) He was defeated by Sahadeva who set forth to sub- ofKadru. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 35, Verse 13).
jugate the kings of the south just before the Rajasuya APARAJITA II. A King born out of a part of one of
yajna of Dharmaputra. (M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter the eight Asuras. who were known the Kalakeyas.
31, Verse 10). (3) An Aksauhini (division of army) ( M.B.,
Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 49) The Pandavas .
was despatched by Anuvinda to help Duryodhana. had invited this King before they went to war. (M.B.,
(M.B., Udyoga Parva, Chapter 19, Verses 24, 25). (4) Udyoga Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 21 ).
On the first day of the war Vinda and Anuvinda fought APARAJITA III. A son of Dhrtarastra. (M.B., Adi
duels with Kuntibhoja. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 101). Bhimasena killed him.
45, Verses 72-75) .
(5) Iravan, sonofArjuna defeated (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter 21, Verse 22).
both Vinda and Anuvinda in the battle. (M.B., Bhisma APARAJITA IV. A King of the Kuruvarhsa. (M.B.,
Parva, Chapter 83, Verse, 18-22). (6) They fought with Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verse 54) .
Bhima, Arjuna and the king of Virata. (M.B., Drona APARAJITA V. One
of the eleven Rudras, the other
Parva, Chapter 25, Verses 20). (7) Anuvinda was killed ten being Hara, Bahurupa, Tryambaka, Vrsakapi,
by Arjuna. (M.B., Drona parva, Chapter 399, Verses Sambhu, KapardI, Raivata, Mrgavyadha, Sarpa and
27-29). (8) Vinda and Anuvinda had a sister called Kapali. (Agni Purana, Chapter 18) .
Mitravinda. The three of them were the children of APARAJITA VI. Used as a synonym of Mahavisnu.
Rajadhidevi, sister of Sri Krsna's father. Sri Krsna (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 89).
married Mitravinda, which her brother did not like. APARAKASI. A place in ancient India. (M.B., Bhisma
This was their reason for quitting the Pandava camp Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 42).
APARAKUNTI 46 ARATTA(M)
Al'ARAKUXTI. A place in ancient India. (M.B., Bhisma her that he would burn Danda's kingdom by a rain of
Parva, Clhapter 9, Verse 43). fire.Ara did tapas, and at the behest of the Maharsi
APARAMLECCHA(M). A place in ancient India. Indra destroyed Danda's kingdom by a downpour of^
(,M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 65). rain of fire. Afterwards this place became a terrible
APARANANDA. A river. Arjuna once crossed it. (M.B., forest where neither birds nor animals lived, and came
Adi Parva, Chapter 214, Verses 6 and 7). Apara- to be known as Dandakaranya. (Uttara Ramayana).
nanda. is counted among the prominent holy rivers. ARAKK1LLAM. (Palace of' wax) Both the Kaurava .
M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 165, Verse 28). and the Pandava princes lived in Hastinapura. The
APARANTA I. A city on the west coast of ancient Pandavas became experts in archery, and their exemplary
South India. (M.B., Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse character and conduct made them, so to say, the apple
67). of their eyes to the people. This evoked great jealousy
APARANTA II. Another name of the Surparaka temple. in Duryodhana who made up his mind to completely
(M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter 4 9, Verse 67) . ruin the Pandavas somehow or other. Duryodhana, with
APARASEKA(M). A place in ancient India. (M.B., Dhrtarasfra's consent, built a new palace at Varana-
Sabha Parva, Chapter 31, Verse 9). vata. Though many others did not know that the
APARAVALLAVA (M) A place in ancient India.
., palace was made of wax the Pandavas, from secret
(M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 62). information knew the fact. But, they only pretended
APARAVIDYA. Knowledge is of two categories or ignorance. Duryodhana and his minister Purocana,
types. Viz. saw to it that the Pandavas shifted their residence to
I) Paravldyd. That science or knowledge, which helps the waxen palace. Duryodhana had planned to set fiie
us to know or realise Him (Brahma) who is without to the palace and burn to death the Pandavas. But, the
either beginning or end, who could neither be seen shrewd Vidura through his messenger Kanaka gave
with the eyes nor perceived by any of the senses. notice of the conspiracy to the Pandavas just in time.
(2) Apardvidyd. This includes knowledge of the four One night Purocana set fire to the waxen palace, but
Vcdas Rg, Yajus, Sama and Atharva, the six Vedarigas the Pandavas escaped by a secret passage, which the
(sub-divisions of the Vedas) Siksa, Kalpa, Nirukta, architect of the palace had made while constructing
Chandas, Vyakarana, Apidhana, Mlmariisa, Dharma- it, and about which the Pandavas had previous know-
sastra and the puranas, as also, Nyaya Sastra (Logic), ledge. The same night a huntsman, with his five children,
Vaidya Sastra (medicine) Gandharva Sastra, Dhanur- was also staying in the palace. As they were uncon-
veda and Artha Sastra (economics). scious with heavy dosage of liquor they could not es-
APODADHAUMYA. (See Ayodhadhaumya). cape the fire. Those six people, and accidentally
APPAYYADlKSITA. A reputed Rhetorician in Sans- Purocana too were burnt to death. People, who gather-
krit, who thrived in the 16th Century A. D. Rewrote ed at the spot, thus saw seven corpses, and the news
two treatises on rhetoric, the Kuvalayananda and was broadcast that the Pandavas, including their wife
Citramimamsa. The former is an interpretation of Pancali and their mother had been burnt to dtath.
chapter 5 of Jayadeva's Candraloka and is very popu- This incident took place one year after the Pandavas
lari n South India- had shifted their residence to the waxen palace. (M.B.,
APRACI. A hell. (See Naraka) (Visnu Purana, Part 2,
. Adi Parva, Chapters 141-151).
Chapter 6) ARALI. One of the sons who were Brahmavadins, of
APRATISTHA (M) A hell. ( See Naraka )
. .
58).
apsara women were born at the churning of the ocean
of Milk. (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Chapter 45, ARANTUKA. A guard posted at a boundary line of
Verse 32 and Visnu Purana, Pait I, Chapter 9 and Kuurksetra. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse
Agni Purana, Chapter 3) There are thousands of
. 52).
Apsaras. (Details given against the names of Apsaras). ARANTUKA. A sacred spot in ancient India, in river
APSUHOMYA. A great sage ( Maharsi ) who adorned Sarasvatl. A bath there is as beneficial as performing
the assembly of Yudhisthira. (M.B., Sabha Parva, the Agnistoma yajna. (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 53,
Chapter 4, Verse 12) .
Verse 24) .
ARA(ARAJAS). Daughter of Sukra maharsi. Iksvaku AR\NYA. A King of the Iksvaku dynasty. (See Iksvaku
begot three sons, Danda, Vikuksi and Nimi. After his
dynasty) .
Kambha, Manorama, Kesini, Subahu, Suraja. Surata and Supriya. Ari?tha gave birth also to four Gandharvas, Haha, Huhu, Atibuhu
and Tumburu as mentioned in the following verse.
AristasiUa Subhagadevi devarsitah pura
Alambusa misrakesi Vidyutparna Tilottama
Aruna raksita caiva rambha tadvat manorama
KesinT ca subahusca vikhyatau ca hahahuhu
Tumburusceti catvarah srnrtah gandharvaaattamah.
ARAYANNAM 47 ARISTA (ARISTAKA)
ARAYANNAM. The swan (Harhsa). crows that they would get the offerings made on earth
1 General.
)
A
bird (Hamsa) in Devaloka. The prefix by men to their departed ancestors. And Bhagavan
'ara' denotes royalty, sublimity, greatness etc. Many Varuna told the Raja-Harhsas "I escaped the clutches
:
puranas describe Arayannam as a bird of the Devas. of Ravana by assuming your shape and form. Therefore,
Manasasaras at the heights of the Himalayas is the be thee, who are now black and white, in future as
permanent abode of these divine birds. They do not purely white as milk". Kubera blessed the Chameleon
like the rainy season. So they come down to the earth with capacity to change colour as and how it pleased,
when rain begins at the Manasasaras, and go back to and also for its cheeks to appear golden in colour to the
the Saras, when rain begins on the earth. This pheno- onlookers. After thus blessing the birds the Devas dis-
menon explains Cerusseri's (Malayalam poet) state- appeared. (Uttara Ramayana).
ment in his Krsnagatha that 'when rain set in hamsas ARBUDA. An Asura. Indra killed this Asura. (Rgveda,
Arayannams began flying away'. Mandala 1, Anuvaka 10, Sukta 51).
2) Origin. Kasyapa, the son of Brahma, married the ARBUDA I. A naga (serpent) living in mountains.
eight daughters of Daksa, Tamra. being one of them. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 21, Stanza 9).
Tamra bore five daughters Kraunci, Bhasi, Syeni, ARBUDA II. The mountain Abu. (Mahabharata Vana >
Dhrtarastri and Suki. Syeni gave birth to the kite, Parva,_Chapter 82, Stanza 55) .
Dhrtarasfri, the Harhsa and the Koka and Suki the ARCANANAS. A muni born in the Atreyagotra of the
Sukas (doves). Koka or the Gakravaki bird is the sister dynasty of Atri. He desired to marry Rathavlti. But
of Harhsa. This is how the Arayanna and the Cakra- her father had decided to give her in marriage only
vaka got Devatva (divinity). (Valmiki Ramayana, to a Maharsi, and, therefore Arcananas became a
Aranyakanda, Canto 14) . Maharsi with the help of the Marutta and wedded
3) Bhifma and the Arayanna. SiSupala, before his death, Rathaviti. Maharsi Sya.va.sva was their son.
blabbered a lot of unbecoming things about Bhisma, ARCISMATl. The fourth daughter of Maharsi Arigiras.
whojwas partial to his (Sisupala's) enemies. And, he rela- (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 216, Verse 6).
ted the story of an Arayanna to elaborate the stand taken ARCIS. Prthu and the Arcis were born from the arms
by the aged Bhisma. An aged Harhsa (Arayanna ) which of Vena. (Bhagavata, 4th Skandha, Chapter 15). Prth'.i
once dwelt on the sea-coast preached to all the other did tapas in forest and gave up his physical body in
birds much about ethical actions. The birds felt great res- fire and attained Vaikunfha (the abode of
Visnu) with
pect for the Arayanna. They flew across the sea in search the Arcis. (Bhagavata, 4th Skandha). For details see
of prey after entrusting their eggs to the Arayanna. The Prthu.
old Arayanna grew fat on those eggs. There was one ARCISMAT. A sect of Pitrs. (M.B., S~anti Parva.
intelligent bird among the lot, and when it looked for Chapter 236, Verse 15).
the eggs they were not to be found. That bird informed ARDHADEVAS (SEMI-GODS). In temples hermits,
its colleagues about the treacherous conduct of the ancestors, serpents, celestial maids and such others also
Arayanna. The birds organised themselves and attacked are worshipped. Among these there are Vasus, Nagas,
the Arayanna to death. Oh Bhisma, the same will be
!
Asuras,Paisacas, Vetalas and many other classes.
your end also. (M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter 41 Verses These are the semi-gods. (See Page 27 of Namva-
30-41). nangum Daivaiigal).
4) Mala and Arayanna. While Nala, the prince of the ARDHAKlLATlRTHA. A holy ghat or bath built by
Nisadha kingdom was resting in a garden he saw an the hermit
Darbhi. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva,
Arayanna in a tank there. Out of curious pleasure Nala Chapter 83, Stanza 153).
caught it, but seeing its mental tremor he let it free. ARDHASADHAKA. A minister of King DaSaratha. He
Out of gratitude for this generous act, the Arayanna had eight ministers.
played the role of the messenger for Nala to get as his ''The great king had eight ministers who were pure
wife Damayanti, the very beautiful daughter of the and famous and experts in dealing with matters of their
King of Vidarbha. concern Jayanta, Dhrsti, Vijaya, Siddha, Ardha-
:
5) How
Arayanna (Harhsa) got the white colour. Once
the sadhaka, ASoka, Mantrapala and Sumantra were
king Marutta was conducting the Mahesvara Satra they". (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga 7,
(a yaga) and Devas like Indra came down to receive Stanzas 2 and 3 Vallathol Translation)
: .
their share of the Havis (oblations in the sacrificial ARGHABHIHANAPARVA. A parva in the Maha-
fire) And, this was the time when Ravana with his
. bharata. (See M.B.).
attendants was on his triumphal tour. Hearing that the ARIHA. A King of the lunar dynasty. He was a son
Devas were at the Asrama of Marutta, Ravana also born to Arvaclna (a king of the Puru dynasty) and
went there, and Indra and the other Devas, trembling Maryada, a princess of Vidarbha. Ariha had a son,
with fear, assumed different disguises and hid them- Mahabhauma, born of his wife, a princess of Anga.
selves away. Indra assumed the guise of the peacock, (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 19, Verses 18-19).
Yama of the crow, Kubera of the chameleon and ARIMEJAYA. A Raja of the Puru dynasty. (See Puru
Varuna of the Arayanna. Thus beguiled Ravana went dynasty). (Agni Purana, Chapter 278).
his own way. The Devas, who thus escaped blessed the ARISTA. Wife of Kasyapa. The Gandharvas were born
family of those birds whose forms they assumed. Indra of her. (Agni Purana, Chapter 19, M.B., Adi Parva,
shaped the blue feathers of the peacock with mixed Chapter 67, Verse 83) .
colours and eyes like his own. Moreover, he blessed ARISTA (ARISTAKA). Anasura, a servant of Kaihsa.
them that they would never be affected with any Once, at the instance of Karhsa he went to Gokula
disease, and that they would dance with their feathers disguised as an ox to kill Sri Krsna. The ox instilled
spread when rain set in. Yamadharma blessed the terror in people by tearing to pieces hills and mountaisn
ARISTANEMA (ARISTANEMI) 48
ARJUNA
with itshorns and bellowing like hell. But Sri Krsna
faced messenger ASrama of Valmiki so that he might
to the
and rained blows on him and it was
the beast,
gam
thrown hundred yojanas away and it died. At the time knowledge. Valmiki consoled the King
spiritual
with the advice that the
of death it regained its I'romer from as Asura. telling, hearing and pondering
(Bhaga- over the story of the
vata, Dasama, Skandha, Chapter Ramayana alone would be enough
37) .
to get eternal salvation.
ARISTANEMA (ARISTANEMI). (Yoeavasistham)
(See Aristanemi) .
ARJUNA. The third of the Pandavas.
ARISTANEMI I. One of the six sons of Vinata. 1
) Genealogy. Descended from' Visnu thus
1) Genealogy. Visnu, Brahma, Kasyapa and Aristanemi. Brahma,
:
ferred to as Naranarayanas
discharged his arrow against the son of Aristanemi taking (Nara and Narayana) In .
Chapter 184, Verses 17-22). (5) Aristanemi once gave attended on Maharsi Durvasas who
much spiritual advice to Ki.ij Sagara of the pleased with her
Surya service made a gift of five mantras to her. The
VamSa. (M.B., Santi Parva, effect
Chapter 288, Verses of the mantras was that Kuntl would
become mother of
5-46). a son from him about whom she was
ARISTANEMI II.
Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter thinking while she
repeated the mantra. As soon as she got the mantras
208, Verse 8 refers to one Aristanemi, the second son of she retired to a
solitary place and thinking of the Sun-
Kasyapa. .jrod
ARISTANEMI repeated the first mantra. At once Suryadeva appear-
III. A Raja called Aristanemi occupied ed and Karna was born to her
a place m the council of Yama. (M.B., Sabha Parva, by him. After assuring
her that the incident would not affect her
Chapter 8, Verse 9). chastity Surya
ARISTANEMI disappeared. Kuntl abandoned the child to float in the
IV. A false name assumed by Sahadeva river Gaiiga, and
while the Pandavas lived stayed with Pandu keeping the other
incognito in the Virata king- four mantras to herself. Since Pandu could
not contact
dom. (M.B., Virata Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 5) the body of his wives, with his
ARISTANEMI V. A synonym of permission Kuntl began
Sri Krsna. (M.B.,
practising the other four mantras one by one. By three
Udyoga Parva, Chapter 71, Verse 5). mantras she got three sons,
ARISTANEMI VI. A King. Realising the transient Dharmaputra from Kala
nature of worldly life, he Arjuna from Indra and Bhlmasena from the wind God
gave up his kingdom and (Vayu). The remaining one mantra Kuntl gave lo
went to and did tapas at Mount Gandhamadana. Indra '
Saptarsis, Prajapatis and other sages arrayed themselves art my disciple give me the daksina (fee) due to the
in the sky. Thus, all animate and inanimate objects guru, and I desire to get the thumb of your right hand as
celebrated the birth of Arjuna. my fee". At once Ekalavya cut his thumb and gave it to
5) Naming. Sages from the top of the Satasrriga Drona. Henceforth Arjuna became Drona's unequalled
mountain came together to perform the christening Adi Parva, Chapter 132).
disciple. (M.B.,
ceremony of Arjuna. While enumerating the various 9) Arjuna got Brahmatirastra. When
once Drona and
names of Arjuna, it is said in the Virata Parva that his disciples were bathing in the river Gariga, a whale
Krsna was the name Pandu gave to his son. (M.B., Adi of the leg of the guru. The combined
caught hold
Parva, Chapter 123, Verse 20). efforts of the disciples failed to extricate the leg from
6) Childhood. The Pandavas spent their childhood at the grip of the whale. Ultimately Arjuna shot an arrow
Hastinapura with the Kauravas. Then Arjuna studied and released the guru's leg. Greatly pleased at this
the art and science of using weapons, dance, music etc. Drona imparted to Arjuna knowledge about Brahma-
along with the other boys. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter sirastra, and Arjuna was enjoined not to use the astra
129, Verse 1). Kasyapa, the high priest of Vasudeva
against men, but to use it only when confronting
did for Arjuna the usual Samskaras like Upanayana Adi
higher beings than men. [Bharata ( Malayalam) ,
(wearing of the holy thread) etc. Arjuna was taught Parva, Chapter 133].
the first lessons in Dhanurveda (Science of archery)
10) Competition in arms. When the training of the princes
by Rajarsi Suka. _ Afterwards, Krpacarya became the was almost over Dhrtarastra decided to have a rehear-
preceptor of the Pandavas in Dhanurveda, and it was sal of their attainments, and the scene for it also was
then that Dronacarya came. There is a particular story
set. The princes with bows and arrows appeared on
about Dronacarya becoming the guru. (See Drona).
the scene. Yudhisthira and others first exhibited their
7) Special favour of Drona. Arjuna showed very great
interest in the science of the use of weapons. Drona, the
skill in shooting arrows in the order of their seniority.
Every scene was explained to Dhi'tarastra by Vidura
master, wanted to teach Asvatthama, his son, certain
and to Gandhari by Sanjaya. Duryodhana and
special things, and he began sending all his disciples to Bhima clashed with each other. Asvatthama pacified
fetch water. Asvatthama used to be the first to return
them and kept them apart. And, then Arjuna and
with the water, and before the others returned Drona
Kama appeared on the scene, and the onlookers dec-
began teaching Asvatthama the special lessons. Arjuna lared them to be equal in skill in archery. When
came to understand this programme and he began
their shooting exhibition was over, Kama who got
returning with water along with Asvatthama. Then
the guru began teaching the special things to both angry again rushed to the stage. Arjuna also got
Asvatthama and Arjuna. Drona instructed the cook ready. Arjuna challenged Kama's eligibility on the
not to serve Arjuna food in the darkness. While ground that he was low-born and not a Ksatriya. At
once Duryodhana proclaimed him as the King of Aiiga.
Arjuna was once taking his food, wind blew out the the
Though this pacified scene, this competition in
burning lamp, and Arjuna alone continued eating. much make the Kauravas and the
Because of constant practice Arjuna was quite sure archery served to
about the position of the hand and the mouth in Pandavas the bitterest of enemies. (M.B., Adi Parva,
the process of eating, and Arjuna surmised from this Chapters, 136, 137).
that archery also could be practised in darkness. He 1 1
Arjuna's gurudakfina (Offering of fee to the preceptor)
)
.
upon it as guru began practising the use of weapons. to Pancala, and in a fierce battle Arjuna defeated
The Kauravas and the Pandavas went hunting in the Drupada. Though Bhima tried to kill Drupada Arjuna
forest. Seeing there Ekalavya with his matted hair and did not permit it, but took him bound to Drona.
clad in deer skin the hunting dogs began barking at This ended Drona's hatred towards Drupada, who
him. Ekalavya shot into the mouth of the dog seven now gifted half his to Drona. Drona was
kingdom
arrows at one and the same moment. With the arrows very much pleased with Arjuna for the above act,
thrust in the mouth the dogs ran back to the Pandavas, and advised him to fight even him (Drona) if the
and they found out the culprit, Ekalavya, who claimed latteropposed him (Arjuna) To this Arjuna replied
.
himself to be a disciple of Drona. Grief-stricken at this 'Yes'.(M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 139, Verse 14) With .
claim Arjuna hurried up to Drona and said: "You had this promise to fight even the guru in case the guru
pronounced me to be your foremost disciple without an attacked him Arjuna became the most reputed archer
equal. But, today Ekalavya, another disciple of yours in Bharata.
50 ARJUNA
ARJUNA
12) Jealousy of Dhrtardstra. After the gurudaksina Arjuna tion of themother Pancali became wife to the five
marched against the neigh curing kingdom. He de- Pandavas. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapters 190, 191).
ir.ued very easily in war the King of Yavana and the 16) Arjuna at Indraprastha. The Svayarhvara of Pancali
Kings Sauvira, Yipula and Sumitia. These victories of broadcast news about the whereabouts of the Pandavas.
Arjuna made the Kauravas very anxious; Dhrtarastra Dhrtarastra brought them back to Indraprastha, and
brooded over it. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 138, Verses installed them in a new palace built at the
place called
20-23) .
Khandavaprastha. (Indraprastha) Dharmaputra ruled
.
13) Escape from the waxen palace. Duryodhana made a part of the country with Indraprastha as capital.
up his mind
to destroy the Pandavas somehow or Narada went there once and advised the Pandavas to
other. He
got the Pandavas to shift
their residence to guard themselves against mutual quarrels as the five of
a palace made of wax at Varanavata. and one year after them claimed one and the same woman as wife. Thence-
this the palace was set fire to. The Pandavas escaped forth it was set forth that Pancali would live with each
death by fire through a tunnel and entered the forest, husband in turn for one year. It was also settled that
the next day. (See Arakkillam). during a particular year if any other husband than the
14) Arjuna on the banks of river Ga..gd. The
Pandavas walk- one whose turn it was to live with IMncali saw her the
ed much through the terrible forest, and after midnight intruder was to go on a pilgrimage for one year.
reached the banks of the Gaiiga. At that time Arhgara- Once a brahmin came to the palace complaining that
parna (Citraratha), the Gandharva was enjoying his cows were stolen by thieves, and Arjuna promised to
his time in the river with some Apsara women. The help him. Arjuna did so without remembering that all
presence of men at the scene, the Gandharva
did not his weapons were stored inDharmaputra's palace. That
relish. Arjuna and the Gandharva crossed in words, year Pancali was living with Dharmaputra. Forgetting
which led to a duel. In the duel the Gandharva was the fact Arjuna went to Dharmaputra's palace, got his
defeated. As the wife of the Gandharva prayed with weapons and helped the brahmin. For thus breaking
tears in her eyes Arjuna spared him his life. The the rule Arjuna left his palace on a pilgrimage for one
grateful told the Pandavas many interesting
Gandharva year.
stories. He also made a present of divine horses and 17A) Arjuna married Ulupikd and Citrangada. Arjuna
imparted to them the esoteric knowledge called Caksusl- with hisbow and arrows went into the forest. Many
vidya. The Gandhar\ a finally told the Pandavas that brahmins followed him. Arjuna reached the banks of
they were attacked because they came without Agni and Gaiiga and entered the waters for a bath. Here Arjuna
Ahuti in their front. He also explained this fact that was attracted by Ulupika, daughter of the Naga King
Arjuna could subjugate him on account of his (Arjuna' s) and he married her. A son was born to them called Ira-
genuine celibacy. (See Citraratha) . van. After visiting places likeAgastyavatam, Vasisthagiri
15) Pdtcalisvayamvara. Citraratha, during his talks Arjuna reached Manalur. He married Citrangada,
with the andavas had pointed out to them the need to daughter of Citrangada, King of Manalur. After a stay
have a priest to lead and guide them in all matters, of three months there he went southwards. Citrangada
and accordingly they visited Dhaumyasrama and ins- gave birth to a son named Babhruvahana'
talled the Maharsi (Dhaumya) as their priest. 17B ) The mark on Arjuna's flag is Hanumdn, and the
And, meantime, seeing thousands of people on their way following story is attached to it. Arjuna, once during a
to attend the Svayarhvara (marriage by open choice tour of the country was much surprised to see the Dam
of husband by the girl) of Krsna (Pancali) daughter constructed by Sri Rama from Ramesvara to Lanka.
of the King of ancala, the Pandavas also followed the
I He also felt that it was not at all proper on the part
crowd. Veda Vyasa, whom the Pandavas met on their of Sri Rama to have sought the help of monkeys to
way blessed them. King Drupada wished to give his construct the dam. Sri Rama could have made a dam
daughter Krsna in marriage to Arjuna. The news that with arrows. Arjuna put this question to a great
the nda as were burned to death in the palace of scholar (Pandit) who was sitting nearby reading the
wax grieved Drupada. Yet he had made arrangements for Ramayana. Neither the Pandit nor the other brahmins
a trial of strength by Heroes at the Svayarhvara. A gathered there could give a convincing answer to Ar-
tremendous bow was got ready and installed on the juna's doubts. Then a monkey child went up to Arjuna
ground, and a machine constructed which was kept and told him with pride that a dam made of arrows
suspended in the air. The target was placed inside would have broken when the monkeys walked on it.
the machine. And then Drupada spoke thus: "My Arjuna said then, "no, no, no monkey will be able to
daughter shall be married to him who will bend the break the dam built with Rama's arrows; which monkey
bow and with the first arrow hit the target placed will break a dam of arrows made even by me ?" And,
inside the machine". (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 155, a debate began about the subject. The monkey and
Verse 11). Great warriors like Duryodhana, Karna, Arjuna agreed to a bet that if a monkey broke the dam
SiSupala, Simsumara took their seats in the marriage made by Arjuna he would end his life by jumping into
hall. All the kings failed even to lift the bow up. Ulti- fire, and if the monkey could not break the dam it
mately Arjuna lifted the bow and hit the target very would for ever be Arjuna's slave. Arjuna constructed
ancali put the wedding garland on Arjuna's a dam with arrows. And, as soon as the monkey set
'
easily.
neck. When the Pandavas returned to their mother foot on it it was broken. Arjuna tried again. Though
with Pari cali m
tne evening the mother from inside her now it caused some efforts on the part of the monkey
room said: "What you have got today, my sons, you the dam broke this time also. Arjuna was thus left with
enjoy among yourselves." KuntI said this under the no alternative but to die by jumping into fire and a
impression that what her sons had got was some fire was accordingly lit. Before Arjuna jumped into the
Bhiksa. At any rate, in obedience to the above injunc- fire a brahmin boy, who was bathing in the river ran
ARJUNA 51 ARJUNA
upto Arjuna and told him that his attempt at self him. (See Khandavadaha ) Arjuna agreed to oblige
.
annihilation was not justified as the bet was made with- Agni Bhagavan, who presented to Arjuna the bow
out an arbiter. When Arjuna who was wedded so called Gandlva, a white horse and many other power-
much to truth brushed aside this argument and got ful arrows. When Agni began burning ihe forest, Indra
ready to end his life the boy said "If you are so very
: sent a heavy shower of rain. By creating a tent with
insistent about it you (Arjuna and the monkey) com- arrows Arjuna saved the forest from the rain. Arjuna
pete once again with me as arbiter. This suggestion of killed Taksaka's wife, cursed the Nr.ga called Asvasena
the boy was accepted. The monkey child tried its best and saved Maya, the architect of the Asuras who was
to break the dam, but it failed. It developed its body put up in the forest. Indra was pleased and gifted many
to the size of a mountain and jumped on the dam. divine arrows to Arjuna. Maya gave the famous conch,
Even then it did not break. Then he ran
up to the boy Devadattam to Arjuna. By now the one year of the
who was acting as arbiter and prostrated at his feet pilgrimage of Arjuna was over and he returned to
crying 'Ramacandra'. At the same moment Aijuna Indraprastha. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapters 233-239).
also prostrated before the boy crying 'Sri Krsna, slave 17P) Fight between Arjuna and Sri Krfna. (See Galava,
to devotees'. The boy asked both of them to get up, para 4) .
and after admonishing them for their conceit gave them 18) Again to the forest. Maya, who escaped death in
good advice. He also asked the monkey child to keep Khandava forest, in his great gratitude, went to Indra-
his word by remaining as the emblem of Arjuna's flag. prastha, and with the permission of Dharmaputra built
(The monkey boy was actually Hanuman and the for the Pandavas an exceptionally beautiful palace.
brahmin boy Sri Krsna). And then the Pandavas made the conquest of all the
1 7 C ) Arjuna went to the holy
Arjuna married Subhadrd. earth, and after killing enemy kings like Jarasandha,
place called Saubhadratlrtha and redeemed the woman the Kimpurusas, the Hadakas, Sisupala, Kurundha and
named Varga from the curse she was labouring under. Bhagadatta returned to Idraprastha and performed
(See Varga) Arjuna continued his journey and reached
. the Rajasuya yajfla. The Kauravas who
got jealous at
Gokarna and Prabhasa tirtha, where he met Gada, this went on a Indraprastha. When they enter-
visit to
brother of Sri Krsna. Gada described to Arjuna the ed the palace built by Maya they were put into many
great beauty of his sister, Subhadra. Arjuna went to a ludicrous situation. (See Sabhaprave:sa). Insulted
Dvaraka and paid his respects to Sri Kt'sna. A few days and humiliated they returned to Hastinapura and
later the yadavas celebrated a great festival at mount challenged the Pandavas to a game of dice, and in the
Raivataka. Aijuna went there disguised as a Sannyasin game the Pandavas lost not only their kingdom and
and forcibly took away Subhadra with him with the other riches, but Pancall as well. Dussasana dragged
permission of Sri Krsna. Though the yadavas got ready Pancall and stripped her of her clothes in the royal
for a fight they were ultimately pacified, and Subhadra assembly and thus mercilessly insulted her. According
was married to Arjuna. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter, to the terms and condition agreed to with reference to
218-224). the game of dice, the Pandavas had to lead forest life
17D) Brahmin boy saved. When once Arjuna was in for twelve years and live for one year incognito. The
Dvaraka with Krsna a brahmin appeared on the
Sri Pandavas again started for the forest. (M.B., Sabha
scene lamenting that his child died as soon as it was Parva) .
born. Nobody paid any heed to this, and then Arjuna 19) Pandavasin Kamyaka forest. A number of brahmins
rose up and assured protection to the next child to be alsoaccompanied the Pandavas to the forest. The noble
born to the brahmin and asked him to return home in brahmin, Saunaka consoled the aggrieved Dharma-
peace. Arjuna also vowed that he would end his life putra in the Dvaitavana. Dharmaputra felt worried
by jumping into fire if he failed to protect the next that he could not feed the brahmins who accompanied
child of the brahmin. him into the forest. Pancall prayed to the Sun-God,
As the time for the delivery of his wife approached the and he gave the Aksayapatra to her. (See Aksyapatra) .
brahmin took Arjuna home. Arjuna made the house And, after this the Pandavas, along with the brahmins,
secure by making an enclosure with his arrows. Yet entered the Kamyaka forest. (M.B., Aranya Parva,
the child died; not only that, at the time of birth it- Chapter 36) .
self its body disappeared. And. the brahmin heaped 20) Arjuna secured divine arrows. Dharmaputra asked
insultson Arjuna, who looked very foolish. Rendered Arjuna to do tapas in the Himalayas and thus secure
thus an object of ridicule Arjuna began to make a fire divine arrows. Accordingly Arjuna went south and saw
for him to jump into. At this Sri Krsna appeared be- Indra in the Indraklla mountain. Indra gave him
fore Arjuna and prevented him from jumping into fire. boons. There Arjuna killed Mukasura. And, then
And then both Krsna and Arjuna went to Visnuloka Arjuna went to Mount Kailasa and prayerfully concen-
and submitted the case of the brahmin to him. Visnu trated his mind on Siva. Siva appeared in the guise of
told them "Oh Krsna and Arjuna, it was I who took
: ! a forest dweller. (See Fa.supata.stra). Afte* that he got
away the brahmin boys for the pleasure of seeing you the Dandastra from Yama, Pasastra from Varuna and
both here. You may immediately return with the brah- Antardhanastra from Kubera. (M.B., Vana Parva,
min boys. And, Krsna and Arjuna returned with the Chapters 37-41).
boys to the brahmin, who now felt very happy. 21) Arjuna in Indraloka. Indra, who was so very pleas-
(Bhagavata, Dasama Skandha Chapter 89) ; . ed that Arjuna got so many divine arrows deputed his
17E) Burning of Khandava forest. While Krsna and Arjuna charioteer, Matali, to bring Arjuna to Devaloka, and
were spending their days on the banks of river Yamuna at Devaloka he learned more about archery and music.
in the summer season Agni Bhagavan (the
fire-god) The Apsara women forgot themselves when they saw
requested them to give the Khandava forest as food to the exceptionally handsome Arjuna. Urvasi, mad with
ARJUNA 52 ARJUNA
love, sent her messenger Citrasena to Indra. Being told 24) Life incognito. Now the twelve years of forest life
about Urvaii's love Arjuna closed both his ears with being over the Pandavas decided to spend the one year
hands, and reminded the messenger of UrvasTs mater- of life incognito in the Virata palace. Arjuna disguised
nal position with reference to him. UrvasI cursed and himself and deposited his clothes and weapons in the
turned Arjuna into an eunuch. Indra consoled Arjuna hollow of a Sami tree in the forest. And the Pandavas
by assuring him that Urvasi's curse will turn out to be in various disguises reached the Virata
palace. They
of great benefit to him. Afterwards Arjuna stayed in assumed false names as Karika, Bhima
:
Dharmaputra
Devaloka for a few days with Citrasena, and during as Valala, Arjuna as Brhannala, Nakula as Granthika
the period he killed Nivatakavaca and Kalakeya. and Sahadeva as Aristanemi and Draupadi as Malinl.
Arjuna became a friend of Maharsi Lomasa, who had When the life incognito of the Pandavas for one year
gone to Devaloka to see Indra. Promising Arjuna that was about to expire a rumour reached the Kauravas
he would protect Dharmaputra Lomasa returned to the that the Pandavas were at the Virata capital, and the
earth. Arjuna left the Kiimyaka forest and returned to Kauravas thought that the Pandavas will appear on the
his brothers after an absence for five years. He met the scene if a war was fought against King Virata. The
brothers at Mount Gandhamadana. (M.B., Vana Parva, Kauravas, with this object in view, lifted the cows of
Chapters 42-47) .
Virata and that led to war. Uttara, the prince of Viraja
22) Procession. At last a witty and humorous brahmin boasted that he would fight provided he had a good
went to Dhrtarastra and dilated upon the hardships charioteer. Brhannala (Arjuna) agreed to act as such
being suffered by the Pandavas, and Duryodhana and and they started for the warfield. At the sight of the
others were extremely pleased and happy to hear it. massive army of the Kauravas Uttara got frightened
Yet, they shed crocodile tears. But, Duryodhana was and tried to run away from the field. But Brhannala
in a mighty hurry to see with his own eyes the pitiable
tightly bound Uttara to the chariot, drove it very fast
plight of the Pandavas. On the pretext of going out for to the forest, took back from the hollow of the Sami
hunting Duryodhana and others with the permission of tree his weapons and returned to the battle-field. The
Dhrtarastra, started for the forest with a number of Kauravas were absolutely defeated in the war and they
attendants. 8,000 chariots, 30,000 elephants, thousands took to their heels. They understood that the very clever
of infantry soldiers, 9,000 horses, merchants, ornaments, and terrible warrior in disguise was Arjuna himself. But,
courtesans and thousands of hunters formed this pro- by the time the period of the Pandavas life incognito
cession into the forest. Just like roaring winds during was over. The king of Virata, greatly pleased over this
the rainy season the procession caused thunderous noise. victory in war gave his daughter, Uttara in marriage to
Duryodhana approached the pool in the Dvaita forest Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna. (M.B., Virata Parva).
and waited a distance. (M.B., Aranya Parva, Chap-
at 25) Preparations for war. After the forest life and life
ter 239, Verses 25-29). incognito the Pandavas returned. The Kauravas refus-
Duryodhana and attendants put up tents in the forest. ed to give them half the Kingdom. Sri Krsna, on behalf
The Gandharvas obstructed Duryodhana, and he and of the Pandavas, implored that half the kingdom or five
the Gandharva called Citrasena clashed with each districts or five nouses or at least one house be given to
other. Duryodhana was made a prisoner. Arjuna came them. But. the Kauravas took the stand that not even
on the scene and released him. And, thus humiliated an iota of land would be given to the Pandavas. And,
Duryodhana returned to Hastinapura with the atten- war was perforce decided upon. Duryodhana went to
dants. (M.B., Aranya Parva, Chapters 239-253). Krsna at Dvaraka to request for support in war. Krsna,
23) Arjuna lost consciousness. While once Pancall was who favoured the Pandavas lay in false sleep as he did
alone King Jayadratha forcibly took her away. Within not want to fight against them. Duryodhana sat at the
seconds the Pandavas confronted Jayadratha and regain- head of Krsna. Arjuna, who came after some tune sat
ed Pancall. Jayadratha and his men were killed. The at the feet Krsna and remained there standing.
of
Pandavas, who were very weary and tired walking in Awakening from sleep, it was Arjuna whom Kysna saw
the forest felt extremely thirsty. Nakula, at the instance first. After the greetings were over with Arjuna, Krsna
of Dharmaputra climbed a tree and looked around and saw Duryodhana also. Between Krsna without any arms
sighted a pool of clear water. When Nakula went to the and the armed forces of Krsna, Arjuna chose Ki'sna
pool and began to draw water a voice from above was and Duryodhana his armed forces to help each side in
heard saying as follows "Do not be so very daring.
: the impending war. Udyoga Parva)
(
.
This is my ancestral wealth. If you answer my ques- 26) War. Both the Parties were encamped in Kuruk-
tions you may not only drink the water but also take setra ready for war. Sri Krsna acted as Charioteer to
some with you". Without paying any heed to this warn- Arjuna. He stopped the chariot in between the opposing
ing Nakula drank water from the pool, and lo he fell ! armies. Arjuna felt deep anguish to find his own people
down unconscious immediately. Sahadeva who went to arrayed on the opposite side for war. Reluctant to kill
the pool in search of Nakula and drank water from the relations, elders, friends and preceptors Arjuna laid
pool also met with the same fate as Nakula. Arjuna down his arms in the chariot. Then did Ki'siia instruct
and Bhima also had the same fate at the pool. Lastly him in Karmayoga (the philosophy of action). That
Dharmaputra went to the pool and understanding what instruction and advice of Kfsna is the world-famous
happened to his brothers requested permission to drink Bhagavad Glta. The Glta cleared off Arjuna's illusions
water. At once a Yaksa appeared and brought the bro- and he praised the Lord, Sri Krsna, who revealed his
thers of Dharmaputra back to consciousness. In fact, all comprehensive form (Visvarupa) to Arjuna.
the Yaksa was none other than Yamadharmadeva. (For On the first day of the war Arjuna fought a duel with
questions and answers of the Yaksa see Dharmaputra.) Blrisma, and the second day he fought the Kaurava
(M.B., Aranya Parva, Chapters 312-315). forces with exceptional prowess. And then Arjuna pre-
ARJUNA 53 ARJUNA
vented Krsna from killing Bhisma. But, the Kaurava (42) Alambusa, King ofRaksasas killed.
army faced defeat that day. On the third day Arjuna (43) Dandadhfira killed with his elephant.
defeated Bhisma, Asvatthama, Trigartta, Bhagadatta (44) Arjuna killed the six brothers of Susarma, viz.,
and others. Thereupon a really fierce fight began. The Satyasena, Candrasena, Mitrasena, Srutanjaya ;
war lasted for 18 days. The important incidents during Sausruti and Mitradharma
the 18 days can be summarised as follows :
(45) Difference of opinion arose between Dharmaputra
( 1 ) Fierce fight between Arjuna and Bhisma. and Arjuna about the failure to kill Karna, and
(2) Fight between Arjuna and Asvatthama. in the heat of excitement Arjuna called his elder
(3) Arjuna destroyed the Kaurava army. brother 'thou'.
(4) Iravan, son of Arjuna, was killed. (46) Immediately repenting Arjuna drew sword to kill
(5) Arjuna fought against Drona and SuSarma. himself. But, regained mental peace by begging
(6) Took the vow to kill Bhisma. pardon of the brother.
(7) Sikhandi prompted to kill Bhisma. (47) Killed Vi'sasena, son of Karna,
(8 ) On the appearance of Sikharidi the Kaurava army, (48) Karna brought down Krsna's crown by his arrow
took fright and fled in great disarray. resembling the face of the serpent. Enraged at this
(9) Arjuna fought a duel with Dussasana. Arjuna killed Karna.
(10) Duel with Bhagadatta. (49) Killed Satyakarma, Satyestha and others.
(11) Duel again with Bhisma. (50) After bowing to Vyasa, Arjuna withdrew arrow.
(12) Bhisma fainted and fell on the ground. (M.B., Bhisma, Drona, Karna, Salya and Sauptika
(13) Duel again with Dussasana. Parvas).
(14) With Sikhandi in the front made an attack on 27) After the war. In the great war the Kaurava army,
Bhisma. to the very last man, was annihilated. The Pandavas
(15) Arjuna discharged three arrows to serve as pillow assembled together. Thoughts about the future came up.
to Bhisma who, dislodged from the chariot, was Sri Krsna consoled the sorrowing Dharmaputra. As
lying on a bed of arrows. desired by Vyasa, Ki'sna, Dharmaputra and others
(16) Cool water sprinkled on the face of Bhisma with returned to Hastinapura and took up the reins of
the aid of divine arrows. governing the country, and the idea of performing an
(17) Fought against Drona and defeated his forces. Aivamedha Yaga was seriously mooted. A King named
(18) Satyajit deputed to remain with Dharmaputra to Marutta agreed to give money needed for the yajfia.
help him. Arjuna defeated all enemy kings. (M.B., Santi Parva).
(19) Sudhanva killed. 28) Death and rebirth of Arjuna. On his way back
(20) Again fought with Bhagadatta. after digvijaya Arjuna was killed by the arrows of his
(21) Supratlka, the elephant of Bhagadatta killed. son, Babhruvahana. Immediately did Ulupl, Arjuna's
(22) And after that, Bhagadatta also killed. wife bring back to life her husband by Mrtasanjlvanl
(23) Vrsaka and Acala killed by Arjuna. mantra. Then Arjuna questioned Ulupl about the
(24; Sakuni defeated. reason for his son killing him, and also as to how she
(25) Arjuna killed the three brothers of Karna and con- happened to be present at the time. Ulupl described
fronted Kama. the story of a curse in answer to Arjuna's querry.
(26) Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna, killed. (M.B., Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 79).
(27) Hearing about the death of Abhimanyu, Arjuna fell 29) The story of the curse. Ulupl said You shall not
:
down unconscious. get angry. Yes, all is for the best. In war you killed
(28) Awakened, Arjuna vowed to kill Jayadratha. Bhisma by unrighteous means, viz. with the help of
(29) Arjuna performed Siva Piija. Sikhandi. On his death, the Astavasus and Ganga Devi
(30) Arjuna dreamt that night to have paid homage to cursed you with hell. I told about this curse to my
Siva along with Krsna and that Siva gave him father, who begged the Vasus for redemption, and they
divine arrows like Pasupata. said that you would be redeemed from the curse when
(31) Marched forth routing the elephant regiment of your son, Babhruvahana, killed you. Accordingly he
Durmarsana. has been brought here to kill you.
(32) Routed Dussasana in fight. The above story pleased Arjuna. (Asvamedha Parva,
(33) Again fought Drona, Kytavarml, Srutayudha, Chapter 81).
Sudaksina, King of Kamboja. 30) Asvamedham. Arjuna again defeated Meghasandhi,
(34) Sudaksina killed in fight. the King of Magadha, Sakuniputra and others and
(35) Srutayu, Acyutayu, Niyutiyu, Ambastha and the returned to Hastinapura, where the Asvamedha yajfia
Mlecchas' army killed. was performed. The Yadava dynasty was extinguished
(36) Vinda and Anuvinda killed. before long. Arjuna did all the rites due to them on
(37) Warfield converted into a house of arrows, on death. He grieved over the departure of Sri Krsna.
account of the great collection of arrows. (Bhagavata, Skandha 11, Chapter 31). And then he
(38) Arjuna defeated Duryodhana. went to Indraprastha with the consorts of Krsna. On
(39) Fought the nine great warriors on the Kaurava the way dacoits overcame Arjuna and snatched away
side. some of the females. Arjuna felt very sad. Then Vyasa
(40) Arjuna cut off the right hand of Bhurisravas at appeared and told him that he would be strong and
the instance of Krsna. powerful only in the presence of Krsna. (Agni Parana,
(41) Cut off the head of Jayadratha with arrows. The Chapter 15).
head and the arrows were thrown on the lap of 31) Pandavas' journey to the other world- Now, it was
Jayadratha's father. time for the Pandavas to journey to the other world.
ARJUNA ARJUNAKA
It was at this juncture that the Yadava dynasty ended 34) Origin of certain words. Towards the close of his
and Sri Krsna was killed, and some of Krsna's con- life incognito, Arjuna went to the Sami tree to take
sorts were abducted. Arjuna could not save them, and out Gandlva kept in its hollow. was Uttara also
they jumped into the river and died. Arjuna, who lost with Arjuna. Then Arjuna revealed himself to Uttara,
all his power began the great
journey with his brothers. and also elaborated the meaning of his various names
On their way Agnideva advised him to deposit reputed as follows:
bow, Gandlva in the sea, and Arjuna did so. (Maha- I shall tell you ten names. Arjuna, Phalguna, Jisnu,
my
prasthana Parva, Chapter 1, Verses 1-42). The Panda- Kiriti, Svetavahana, Bhibhatsu, Vijaya, Krsna, Savya-
vas continued their journey, Yudhisthira leading them. saci and Dhananjaya I am called Dhananjaya,
They reached the Himalayas, and there Pane "ill expir- because even after having conquered all the lands and
ed. To Bhima's querry as to why Pancali expired first, amassed wealth I stand in the centre of righteousness
Yudhisthira replied that it was due to her having been ... .1 am called Vijaya because in fights with haughty
more partial to Arjuna. The others continued their I am called Svetavahana
opponents I always succeed
journey and then Sahadeva died. Yudhisthira explain- because white horses are harnessed in war to my chariot
ed that Sahadeva died second due to his arrogance decked with golden ornaments I am called Phal-
and conceit. And, the others continued going forward. guna because I was born in the month of Phalguna and
An emaciated dog was already with the Piindavas under the star, Phalguna. .. .1 am kinti because during
during their journey. Nakula was the third to die, and my fight with the Daityas I put on my head crown
Yudhisthira attributed it to his (Nakula) extreme con- glowing as Sun. . . I am called Bibhatsu by men and
ceit about his beauty. And, Arjuna's death next, Devas because I never resort to revolting means during
Yudhisthira said, was due to his having not kept his war.. .Devas and men call me Savyasaci because both
vow, once made, to kill the whole lot of enemies in a my hands are adept in using the bow, Gandlva.... I
day. After proceeding a short distance further Bhima am Arjuna because, in the world people are rare who
also fell dead, and Yudhisthira thought to himself I do, and moreover I do
possess such fair colour as
that it was due to Bhima's voracious eating. And, then only white (just and ethical) acts. . .1 am called Jisnu,
.
Devendra came in his chariot of gold and welcomed because I am unassailable and unconquerable, and I
Yudhisthira to Svarga. But, he refused the offer saying subjugate and conquer, and also because I am the son of
that he would not do go alone, leaving his brothers Indra. .My father gave me the tenth name of Krsna
.
behind. When Indra assured him that his brothers because I was very attractive (Krsna = attractive).
were already there, in Svarga, Yudhisthira got into [Mahabharata (Malayalam) ].
the chariot and reached Svarga, and he was elated to 35) Wives of Arjuna.
find his brothers there happy with Pancali. (Maha- (1) Pancali (2) Ulupi (3) Citrarigada (4) Subhadra.
prasthana Parva and Svargarohana) .
36) Sons of Arjuna. Srtakiiiti, Iravan, Babhruvahana,
32) The meanings of the word. Ariuna. Abhimanyu.
(1) White. ARJUNA II. A son of Emperor, Nimi.
SuklaSubhrasucisveta- One Arjuna, son of emperor Nimi, got philosophical
Visadasvetapandavah advice from a Muni named Asita (Brahmandapurana,
Avadatassito gauro Chapter 47) .
sunu, Sakratmaja, S"akrasuta, Svetasva, Svetahaya, Once, the son of an old Brahmin woman Gautami,
Svetavaha, Devendratanaya, Dhananjaya, Gandlvabhrt, died on account of snake-bite. A hunter caught and
Gandlvadhanva, Gandlvadhari, Gandivi, GudakeSa, brought before Gautami the snake. His object was to
Indrarupa, Indrasuta, Indratmaja, Indravaraja, Jaya, kill it immediately. But the serpent proved its innocence
Jisnu, Kapidhvaja, Kapiketana, Kapipravara, Kapi- by pleading that it bit the boy impelled and prompted
varadhvaja, Kaunteya, Kaurava, Kauravasrestha, by Death. At once death (mrtyu) appeared on the
Kauravya, Kiritamali, Kauraveya, Kirlfabhi't, Kirl- scene and explained that it was prompted by the God
tavan, Kiriti, Krsna, KT-snasarathi, Kuntlputra, of Death. And, it was the child who was responsible for
Mahendrasunu, Mahendratmaja, Nara, Pakasasani, the cause of death, and Gautami was the cause for the
Pandava, Pandaveya, Pandunandana, Partha, Paurava, birth of the child. Ultimately Gautami herself assumed
Phalguna, Prabhanjanasutanuja, Savyasaci, Tapatya, responsibility for the sin. Bhlsma consoled
Dharma-
Tridasesvaratmaja, Vanaradhvaja, Vanaraketana, Vana- putra by telling that as in the case of Gautami in
raketu, Vanaravaryaketana, Vasavaja, Vasavanandana, the story, the cause for every effect was the chain
Vasavatmaja, Vasavi, Vijaya. of Karma. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 1).
ARJUNAVANAVASAPARVA 55
ARWA
ARJUNAVANAVASAPARVA. A sub parva in Maha- rose to the sky. This curse was the reason for Vinata's
bharata. (See Mahabharata) .
becoming a slave ofKadru. (M.B., Adi
Parva, Chapter
ARKKA I. A synonym of the Sun. (See SURYA) .
16, Verses 18-23) .
ARKKA II. A king of olden days. (M.B., Adi Parva, 4) Aruna became charioteer of Sun. The Sun and the
Chapter 1, Verse 236). Moon betrayed to the Devas Rahu, who waited at the
ARKKA III. The royal^ sage Rsika was Arkka, the entrance of Devaloka to snatch off the Nectar
(Amrtam)
Asura, reborn. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verses got at the churning of the sea of milk (Kslrabdhi) .
32, 33). Thenceforth Rahu does often swallow the Sun and the
ARKKAPARNA. Kasyapa's son by his wife Muni. He Moon. That phenomenon is called the eclipse of the Sun
(
was a De\agandharva. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 65, or Moon. Surya-grahana and Candra-grahana).
Enraged
Verse 43) .
by these frequent attacks of Rahu, the Sun-God began
ARTHAM. From the forehead of Mahavisnu a golden once to burn like anything.
Murmuring that everyone
lotus grew up from which Sri Devi was born- Dharm- would cooperate when there was
something to be achiev-
arthas (Dhai ma = righteousness and artha =wealth) also ed, but would go on their own way when the
object was
were born from Sri. "From the forehead of Visnu, achieved, the Sun-God began burning so virulently as
sprung up a golden lotus and His wise spouse Sri arose to destroy all living forms, and the Devas were
frighten-
there from and oh, Pandava, righteousness and wealth ed by this and took refuge in Brahma. Brahma called
came into being from S"ri". (Bhasabharata, Santi Parva, Aruna and asked him to stand as charioteer in front
Chapter 59, Stanzas 130 & 131) . of the Sun-God everyday so that the Sun's
intensity
ARUJAM. A sect among the(M.B., VanaRaksasas. might be reduced. From that day onwards Aruna has
Parva, Chapter 285, Verse 2) been functioning as the charioteer of the Sun.
.
(M B
ARULMOLITHEVAR. The Saiva text of the south is Adi Parva, Chapter 24, Verses 15-20).
called Tirumura, and it contains twelve songs. The 5) Birth of sons. S~yenl, wife of Aruna delivered two
first seven of those songs were composed by Tirujnana- sons, Sampati and Jafayu. (M.B., Adi' Parva,
Chapter
sambandha, TirunavukkarSar and Sundaramurti. The 68, Verse 71) .
twelfth song is called Periyapurana composed by 6) Aruna assumed female form. Silavati, the chaste
Arulmolithevar. He is also called Sekhilar. Tevar was woman, once did naked Tapas to redeem her husband,
prime minister (A.D. 1063-1112) of Cola. (Some great Ugratapas from the consequences of a curse. The object
lives).
of her tapas was to prevent the next dawn
(Sunrise).
ARUNA I. Owing to the intensity of her tapas the Sun ceased to
1) Birth. Son of KaSyapa by Vinata. KaSyapa, son rise, and this gave his charioteer Aruna some rest. Then
of Brahma, married Vinata and Kadru, and being so it was that Aruna came to know of a
programme of
much pleased by their services he gave them boons. naked dance by the women in Devaloka. Women alone
Kadru got the boon to have 1000 naga (serpent) sons, were admitted to the dance hall. Aruna,
therefore, assum-
and Vinata to have two sons more powerful and vital ed female form and sat among the Deva
women, and
than the sons of Kadru. After this KaSyapa went into the beautiful 'female' kindled erotic sentiments in Indra
the forest again for Tapas. After a period, Kadru gave and he enjoyed a night with 'her'. Also, a son was born
birth to 1000 eggs and Vinata to two. Both che mothers to them. And, before the day dawned
Aruna, at the ins-
kept their eggs in pots so that they were in the right tance of Indra entrusted the child to
Ahalyadex I and re-
temperature. After 500 years the pot broke up and turned to join duty as the Sun-God's charioteer.
(Aruna,
Kadru had her 1000 sons. Vinata felt pained at this while he acted as Indra's wife was called
Arumdevi)!
and opened one of her pots. A child only half-developed Aruna was a bit late to report for
duty, and when
emerged from the egg and he was Aruna. (M.B., Adi questioned by Sun he detailed the happenings during
Parva, Chapter 16, Verses 5-7). After another 500 the last night. This evoked the desire in the Sun to see
years the other egg of Vinata hatched itself and a glow- Aruna in female form. Aruna did so, and the Sun en-
ing son emerged. He was Garuda. joyed her. This also resulted in the birth of a son, who
2) Genealogy. While Rama and Laksmana wandered too was, at the instance of the Sun, entrusted to
Ahalya-
in the forest searching for Slta they saw the wounded devl. AhalyadevI brought both the children with tender
and disabled Jatayu. Jatilyu described his genealogy love, which Gautama muni, her husband did not like.
as follows "Kasyapa, son of Brahma, married the
: He cursed them and turned them into monkeys. After
daughters of Daksa. Of the two wives, Vinata delivered
'
some time Indra went to Ahalya to see his child and he
two sons, Garuda and Aruna. Sampati was Aruna's was told the story of Gautama's curse. Indra searched
elder son and he (Jatayu) the younger. (Valmiki out both the monkeys. In view of the elder one
having a
Ramayana, Aranyakanda, Canto 14). Agni Purana, long tail he was called Bali (Vali) and the neck of the
Chapter 19 also refers to Garuda and Aruna as the sons second one being very beautiful, he was named
Sugriva.
of Vinata. At that time, Rksaraja, the monkey King of Kiskindha
3) Aruna curses his mother. The fact of Vinata forcing was very unhappy because he had no sons. He came to
open one of her eggs prematurely and Aruna emerging know of Bali and Sugriva, and requested Indra to
give
out of it with only a half-developed body has been both the monkeys to him as sons. Indra gladly
obliged
mentioned above. Aruna got angry at the haste of his him. Indra blessed Bali to the effect that half the
mother and cursed her to live as slave of Kadru for strength of anybody who attacked him would be added
500 years, and then Garuda would redeem her from to his own natural power. Indra then sent him and
slavery. He also asked her to wait for 500 years so that Sugriva to Kiskindha.
the birth of another physically deficient son like him- 7) Synonyms. Surasuta, Anuru, Aruna, Kasyapi, Garu-
self might be avoided. After pronouncing this curse Aruna dagraja.
ARU1SA II 56 ARVAVASU
ARUrjJA II. A king of the solar dynasty, and father of began a rigorous tapas, and Siva appeared before her
TriSauku. (Devi Bhagavata, Saptama Skandha) .
disguised as a brahmin. Since, due to the failure of
ARU^IA III. A sage in ancient India. A community of rains, ArundhatI had no food with her. She cooked food
Rsis was denoted by this name. Those Rsis were called with some cheap roots and served the guest with it.
Arunas. The Ajas, Prsnis, Sikatas, Ketus and Arunas and with that it rained profusely all over the land. Siva
they attained Svarga by self study. (M.B., Siinti Parva,
then assumed his own form and blessed Arundhati,
Chapter 26, Verse 7) . and from that day onwards it became a sacred spot.
ARU^A IV. A serpent.Karkkotaka, Vasuki, Taksaka, (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 48, Verses 38-54).
Prthus'ravas, Aruna, Kunjara, Mitra, Samkha, Kumuda, (6) ArundhatI once pointed out to Vi'sdarbhi the evils
Pundarlka, and the chief of serpents, Dhi'taras{ra. of receiving remuneration (fee). (M.B., AnuSasana
(M.B., Mausala Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 15). Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 45).
ARU^JA V. A Rsi. Taittarlya Aranyaka refers to him (7) On another occasion she spoke about the secret
as born from the flesh of Brahma at the time of creation. principles of ethics among others. (M.B., Anusasana
ARUI^A VI. A Danava (Asura) born in the dynasty of Parva, Chapter 130, Verses 3-11).
Vipracitti. He did tapas for long years repeating
the (8) Once all the Devas eulogized ArundhatI and Brahma
Gayatri mantra, and got from Brahma the boon not to blessed her. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 130,
die in war. Becoming very arrogant on account of this Verses 12 and 13).
boon he left Patala (nether region) for the earth and (9) ArundhatI and Vasistha did tapas at the sacred
deputed a messenger to challenge Indra for war. At that Sarasvati tirtha and entered into Samadhi. (M.B.,
time a heavenly voice called out that as long as Aruna Vana Parva, Chapter 130, Verse 17).
did not give up the Gayatri he could not be worsted in ARUNDHATI II. A wife of Kala (God of death) .
war. Then the Devas sent Brhaspati to Aruna to make ArundhatI, Vasu, YamI, Lamba, Bhanu, Marutvati,
him give up Gayatri. Aruna questioned B/haspati as to Samkalpa, Muhurta, Sadhya and VisVa are the ten
%vhy he of the enemy camp had come to him (Aruna) . wives of'Kala. (Visnu Purana, Part 1, Chapter 15).
B/haspati replied "You and I are not different; both
: ARUNDHATIVATAM. A holy place. If one takes one's
of us are worshippers of Gayatri Devi. Being told so bath during three days in the Samudraka tirtha nearby
Aruna gave up worship of Gayatri Devi, and she felt and also starves one will get the results of AsVamedha
offended at this and sent thousands of beetles against yaga. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Verse 41).
him. Thus, without fighting Aruna and his army were ARUNl. Name given to Aruna when he attended
extinguished. (Devi Bhagavata). Indra's assembly disguised as female. (See Aruna).
ARUIifA VII. A son of Narakasura. When Narakasura ARUI^ODA. A river flowing through the island of
was killed Aruna along with his six brothers fought Plaksa, one of the seven islands of ancient times. The
again_st Sri Krsna and was killed. wind around ten yojanas of Plaksa is very fragrant
ARU^JA I. An
Apsara woman born of Pradha, wife of because it carries the divine fragrance being emitted
Kasyapa. Pradha and Kasyapa had the following child- always from the bodies of Parvatl and her attendants,
ren. Alambusa, MisrakesI, Vidyutparna, Tilottama, who drink water from river Arunoda. (Devi Bhaga-
Raksita, Rambha and Manorama. (M.B., Adi Parva, vata, Asjama Skandha).
'
Chapter 65, Verses 50,51). AROPA. One of Daksa's daughters. (M.B., Adi Parva,
ARUI^A II. A tributary of the river Sarasvati. (M.B., Chapter Verse 46)
65, .
Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 15). ARUPATTIMDVAR. (The sixty-three's). In ancient
ARU^ASAMGAMAM. The place where Aruna falls times there were sixty- three devotees of Siva in the south.
into Sarasvati. (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 43, Verses They were called Nayanaras and they have composed
30-45). many famous sacred songs. Prominent among them were
ARUNDHATI I. Wife of Sage Vasistfia. Tirujnanasambandha, Tirunavukkarasa and Sundara-
(1) Birth. She was born as the daughter of Karddama murti
Prajapati and Devahuti. (See Vasistha). ARVA. The son of Ripuriijaya. (Visnu Purana).
(2) Other information. ( 1 ) Once ArundhatI got suspi- ARVAVASU. An ancient Ascetic who had been a lumi-
cious about the character of Vasistha and as a result nary in the Durbar hall of King Yudhisjhira. There
of misunderstanding her chaste husband her beauty is a story in the Mahabharata showing the merits of
suffered a set-back. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 232, penance of Arvavasu. This story was told by the her-
Verses 27-29). mit Lomasa to the Pandavas, when they arrived at the
(2) ArundhatI shone forth in Brahma's assembly with holy bath Madhugilasamanga, during their exile in
other Devls like, Prthvi, Hrl, Svahaklrti, Sura and Sad. the forest. "Long ago two ascetics Raibhya and Bhara-
(M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 41). dvaja had built their hermitages and lived here. A son
(3) She outshone all other chaste women in devotion to named Yavakrlta was born to Bharadvaja. To Raibh-
her husband. She owed her great power to her chastity ya, two sons called Arvavasu and Paravasu were born.
and service of her husband. (M.B., Aranya Parva, Raibhya and his sons were learned men. Bharadvaja and
Chapter 225, Verse 15). Yavakrlta became ascetics. Yavakrlta started doing
(4) The seven great Rsis once offered her an honourable penance with a view to get the boon of learning com-
seat. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 226, Verse 8) .
ing to him automatically without getting it directly
(5) There is a story in the Mahabharata of how Siva from Brahmins. When his penance became severe Indra
once blessed ArundhatI. While the seven great Rsis appeared and told him that the boon he asked for was
were staying at the Himalayas it did not rain consecu- an impossibility and tried to dissuade him from his
tively for twelve years, and the Munis suffered much attempt. Yavakrlta was not willing to give up penance.
without either roots or fruits to eat. Then ArundhatI Later Indra came in the guise of a Brahmin to the
ARYAMA 57 ASIKNI II
Banks of the Ganges and began to build a dam with a long time they had no sons and so they went to the
sand particles. Yavakrita said that it was an impossible Himalayas and started penance there in the mount of
task. Indra said that the desire of Yavakrita also was Bhrguprasravana. After a hundred years Bhrgumaha-
as impossible as that. Still Yavakrita did not show any rsi appeared before them and pleased them thus "Your :
intention of drawing back. Finally Indra granted him elder wife KesinI will give birth a son who will
to
the boon. continue your dynasty and your second wife will give
Yavakrita returned to the hermitage. Full of arrogance birth to sixty thousand children". After a few years
he hankered after the daughter-in-law of Raibhya. KesinI gave birth to Asamanjas and Sumati to a big
Raibhya plucked a tuft of hair from his head and put ball of flesh. That ball broke and sixty thousand babes
it as oblation in fire and created a giant who killed came out from it.
(Valmlki Ramayana, Balakanda,
Yavakrita. Bharadvaja felt sad and cursed Raibhya Sarga 83 ) .
that he would be killed by his son. Then with Yava- 2) Character of Asamanjas. He was a very cruel man
krita hejumped into the fire and died. always tormenting people. He used to throw little child-
At that time Bi'haddyumna, a Brahmin performed a ren into the Sarayu river and stand on the banks of the
sacrifice. He invited Arvivasu and Paravasu as helpers. river enjoying the sight of the children dying drowning.
As Paravasu was going along the forest he saw his father People hated him. His father, therefore, drove him out
covered with the hide of a deer and shot at him think- of his palace. To this bad man was born Arhsuman, a
ing him to be a deer. He stealthily informed the matter King who became the favourite of the people. (V5.1-
to Arvavasu. Arvavasu went to the forest completed the mlki Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga 38).
funeral rites of his father and returned. Paravasu spread ASAMPREKSYAKARITVA. See under DEVASARMA
the rumour everywhere that Arvavasu had murdered IV.
his father. In the innocence of Arvavasu, nobody ASANI. A
holy hermit. While Sri Krsna was going to
believed. Everyone avoided him. He became sad and this hermit met him on the way. (M.B.,
Hastinapura
forlorn and went to the forest arid did penance to the Udyoga Parva, Chapter 83) .
Sun. The Sun appeared before him and blessed him. ASIDDHARTHA. A minister of Dasaratha. (Valmlki
He returned and brought Yavakrita, Bharadvaja and Ramayana, Sloka 3, Sarga 7, Balakanda).
Raibhya to life again. ASIKNI I. A river flowing through the Punjab in India.
All these occurrences happened in this bath called This is called Candrabhaga and also Cinab (Clna) .
Madhubilasarhgama. (Mahabharata, Aranya Parva, The Rgveda also mentions about this. (M.B.. Bhisma
Chapters 135, 136, 137, 138). Parva).
The report of a conversation between this hermit, and ASIKNI II. A wife of Daksa. DaksaprajSpati, son of
Sri Krsna who had been on his Brahma, commenced creation with his own mind. When
way to Hastinapura,
is
given in the Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 336, he found (hat it was not conducive to the propagation
Stanza 7. Arvavasu also is counted among the hermits of the species he pondered over the subject once more
who possessed the Brightness of Brahma like Rudra. and decided to effect it by the sexual union of the male
"Hermit Vasistha ! Now
give their names in
I shall and the female. He, therefore, married Asikni daughter
order. Yavakrita, Raibhya, Arvavasu, Paravasu, Kak- of Viranaprajapati. There is a version in the seventh
slvan, Aursija, Bala, Aiigiras, Rsimedha, Tithisuta, Skandha of Devi Bhagavata that Viranl was born of
Kanva, these are the Bright hermits, having the bright- the left thumb of Brahma.* Then the virile Daksa-
ness of Brahma, lauded by the world and as bright as by Asikni five thousand Haryasvas with
prajapati begot
Rudra, Fire and Vasu". (M.B., Anusasana Parva, a view to propagating his species and the Haryaivas
Chapter 150, Stanzas 30, 31 & 32) . also evinced great desire to increase their number.
Arvavasu did penance to the Sun for getting children. Knowing this devarsi Narada of enchanting words
The Sun-God came down from his way in the sky and approached them and said "Oh, HaryasVas, I under-
gave him through Aruna directions mentioned in the stand you, energetic young men, are going to continue
Kalpa (one of the six Sastras or Sciences) regarding creation. Phew You are children who have not cared
!
knowing the size of the earth." They also went to (3) He attended the coronation of Yudhisthira along
different sides and never returned just like rivers falling with Narada and Vyasa. (Sloka 10, Chapter 53, Sabha
into the ocean. The loss of the Sabalasvas infuriated Parva, M.B.). See under Devala for more information.
Daksa and he cursed Narada. ASITADHANVA. A king of Vedic times. Sarhkhyayana
to creation Daksa got of Asikni sixty
commence Sutra states that the Veda of Asuravidya was written by
Again
this
girls. Of ten he gave to Dharmadeva, thirteen
these King.
ASITADHVAJA. Son of Kasyapa and Vina ta. He was
to Kasyapa, twentyseven to Soma and four to Aris^a-
nemi. Twowere given to Bahuputra, two to Angiras present at a birthday celebration of Arjuna. (Sloka 72,
and two to the scholar Krsasva. Dharmadeva's wives Chapter 122, Adi Pan a, M.B.).
were Arundhati, Vasu, YamI, Lamba, Bhanu, Marut- ASITAKASYAPA (DEVALA). For details see under
vati, Sankalpa, Muhurta, Sadhya and VisVa. Of Visva JAIGlSAVYA and Devala..
were born Visvedevas. Sadhya delivered the Sadhyas, ASITAPARVATA. A mountain situated on the banks of
the river, Narmada, in the country of Anarta. (Sloka 11,
Marutva, the Marutvans and Vasu, Vasus. Bhanus were
born of Bhanu. From Muhurta came Muhurtabhimanis Chapter 89, Vana Parva, M.B.) .
and from Lamba, Ghosa and from Yarnl, Nagavithi. ASMAKA 1. Son born to Vasistha by the wife of Kalma-
(Chapter 15, AnuSasana Parva, 1; Visnu Purana and sapada the King of Ayodhya. (See Iksvaku vamSa) while
Skandha the King Kalmasapada was walking through the forest
6, Bhagavata) .
Lunar hunting he saw Sakti the son of Vasistha. As Sakti did not
ASIKRSNA. Son of AsVamedhas, a King of the
care to give room for the King, Kalmasapada wounded
dynasty. (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha). Sakti, who cursed the King and changed him to a Raksasa
ASILOMA. Prime Minister of Mahisagva. (Devi Bhaga- (giant) The giant immediately killed Sakti. After many
.
ASITA. Acelestial maiden. She had taken part in the Godavari and Mahismatl. ASmaka was a king of this
land. He fought against the Kauravas on the Pandava
birthday celebrations of Arjuna. (Sloka 63, Chapter
Adi Parva, M.B.)
122, .
side. (Karna Parva).
ASITA I. One of the R^viksofthe Sarpasatra of Jana- ASMAKA III. A sage. (M.B., Sand Parva, Chapter 47,
Sloka 5).
mejaya.
Some details. (1) The prominent Rtviks were Bhargava,
ASMAKADAYADA. Son of the King Asmaka. He was a
soldier Kaurava army. He was killed in the
of the
Kautsa, Jaimini, Sarhgarava, Pihgala, Vyasa, Uddalaka battle by Abhimanyu. (Slokas 22 and 23, Chapter 37,
Pramattaka, Svetaketu, Asita, Devala, Narada, Parvata, Drona Parva, M.B.).
Atreya, Kundajara, Kalaghajs, Vatsya, Kohala, Deva- ASMAKl. Wife of Pracinva. KaSyapa was born to
s"arma, Maudgalya, Samasaurabha. (Chapter 53, Adi
Marlci, son of Brahma. To Kasyapa was born of his
Parva, M.B.) wife Aditi, daughter of Daksa, Vivasvan. Descending in
(2) Asita, Devala, VaiSampayana, Sumantu and Jaimini order from Vivasvan were born Manu, Ila, Puriiravas,
were disciples of Vyasa. (Prathama Skandha, Devi
Ayus, Nahusa, Yayati. Yayati had two wives, Deva-
Bhagavata) .
Asiddhartha, Arthasadhaka, Asoka, Mantrapala and my child my son Vijayadatta!", cried his father
! !
Sumantra. (Valmlki Ramayana, Balakanda, and came away from the burial-place, and went to the
Sarga 7).
ASOKA III. A King of the family of the famous Asura shelter of the tree and told his wife, son and others
Asva. This king had been
ruling over Kalinga. (Adi everything that had happened. Stricken with grief
Parva, Chapter 67, Stanza 14).
they all fell on the ground. All those who came to
ASOKADATTA. Once the Vidyadhara (a class of worship in the temple gathered round them and tried
semi gods) named Asokavega was
going through the sky, to console them. Among them was a merchant named
when the hermit maids of Galavasrama ( the
hermitage Samudradatta, a native of Kasi. He consoled Govinda-
ofGalava) were bathing in the Ganges. He hankered svami and his family and took them to his house in
after them. So the hermits cursed him and
Kas"I. He showed
him to a man. The name of Asokavega in his human
changed hospitality and gave them a separate
place to live in. Noble men are kind to those who are
birth was Asokadatta. The
story of Asokadatta in in distress. The great hermit had said that their son
the "Kathasaritsagara" is as follows :
would come back in due course. Hoping that such a
Long ago Brahmin named Govindasvami,
there lived a time would come soon Govindasvami and his
near the river Kalindi.He had two sons, Asokadatta family
and Vijayadatta. They were good men like their father. dragged on their time. At the request of that wealthy
merchant they stayed there on. Asokadatta
Once there occurred a great famine in the got his
country. education there. When he grew up to a
youth, he got
Scarcity prevailed everywhere. Govindasvami told his physical training. He became such an expert in wrestl-
wife, "I cannot bear to see the difficulties of our
peo- ing and other modes of fighting that nobody on earth
ple. So let us give everything we have for famine relief could overcome him. During a festival there was a
and then go to Kasi and live there." His contest in wrestling. A renowned wrestler had come
good-natured
wife agreed to it and giving
everything for the relief from the south to take part in the contest. In the con-
work, Govindasvami with his wife and children started test which took place in the
for Kasi. On the presence of Pratapamukuta,
way he met a hermit sage who had the King of Kas"i,
the wrestler challenged every wrest-
renounced the world. He had his whole body besmear- ler inthe country and had overthrown each one of
ed with ashes. With his tuft of hair and
garment made them. Having heard from the merchant
Samudradatta,
of the barks of trees, he seemed to be Siva. Govinda-
the King sent for Asokadatta and put him
svami bowed before him, and asked about the future against the
of his children. The Yogi
wrestler from the south. A
very serious fight began
(hermit) said, "the future of between the two. They grappled each other with firm
your two sons is good. But this Vijayadatta will go away and resolute grips. The audience was struck with won-
from you. Reunion will become
possible by the good- der at the variety of the modes of
ness of Asokadatta." Govindasvami felt grappling and twist-
glad and sad at ing and turning they exhibited. Applause came from
the same time. Leaving the hermit
they proceeded to everywhere. The fight lasted for a very long time.
Kasi. They neared Kasi. There was a
temple on the Finally Asokadatta threw the other to the ground,
way. They stayed there and conducted worship in the and got much presents from the King.
temple and took shelter for the night under a tree out- Gradually he
became a favourite of the King, and
side the temple. Other travellers also were there. consequently
Being became wealthy. One day the King went to a
tired of walking all went to temple
sleep. Vijayadatta the of Siva, a little away from the
capital to observe fast
second son of Govindasvami caught cold. So he woke on the fourteenth night of the Moon and while return-
up in the night. When he began to shiver, because of ing he passed by a burial-ground and heard a voice
cold, he called his father and said, "Father, it
appears saying, "Oh Lord The judge had ordered me to be
!
ASOKADATTA 60 ASOKADATTA
hanged, for a charge of murder, merely out of personal be ? I have a desire to give him our daughter Madana-
grudge and without any proof, and this is the third day lekha".
since I was put on this scaffold. My life has not yet The queen also said that the thought was pleasing to
departed from the body. My tongue is dried of thirst. her. "This youth is the most suitable person to be her
Have the kindness to give me a little water." husband. Some days ago Madanalekha had seen him in
"Punished without proof It will appear only so to him
!
Madhu garden and from that day a change is visible in
her. All laughing and playing is gone from her, and she
who is punished". Thinking thus the King asked
Asokadatta to give the man some water. "Who will go spends time in loneliness and thinking. I knew this from
her maids. Because of my thought about her I did not
to a burial-ground in the night ? I myself shall take
water to him". Saying so Asokadatta took water and sleep last night and only just closed my eyes in the
dawn. Then it seemed to me that a divine woman
went to the burial-ground and the King went to the
appeared and said to me, ''My daughter, Don't give
palace. The world was in darkness. With here and
there a spark of fire and light of fire-flies and lightning your daughter Madanalekha to anybody else. She had
been the wife of ASokadatta in previous birth". I woke
mingled with the shouting of ghosts and the roaring of
the demons and occasional cries of birds and animals up immediately. Believing in the dream I consoled our
the burial-ground was a dreadful place, where Asoka- daughter. I am glad that now you also think so. Let the
datta came and asked, "Who asked the King for Jasmine creeper entwine round the Mango tree."
water ?" He heard a voice saying "Myself" and he
When the King heard these things from his queen, with-
out wasting more time he gave his daughter Madana-
went to the place of the voice and saw a man lying on
lekha in marriage to Asokadatta. They suited each
a scaffold. An extremely beautiful woman also was lying
other so much that not only their relatives, but the
under the scaffold crying, and getting ready to jump
others also were delighted. Brahma is well experienced
into the burning fire since she could not bear the
in joining suitable things together. As they were all
separation of her husband on the new moon day. She
had plenty of golden ornaments on her body. Asoka- getting on well one day the queen said to the King,
datta asked her, "Madam who are you, why are you "My lord this Bangle being single doesn't shine well.
!
nest wish that you should be the husband of my daughter. the will of God I lived as a giant so long. You might
And I
your immediate need also."
shall satisfy have heard this from father. Because we have met now
The brave Asokadatta agreed to the request of the by good luck I remembered that I was a Brahmin. My
giantess. She, with her power, took him to their city giantness is gone. On that day something obscured my
through the sky. Asokadatta saw the golden city and mind. That is why I became a giant". When he heard
wondered if it was the sun taking rest after its tedious the words of his younger brother Asokadatta embraced
journey. There he saw the daughter of the giantess and him. Both shed tears of joy. At that time Prajnapti
thought her to be the incarnation of his adventurous Kausika the teacher of the Vidyadharas came to them
spirit. She was beautiful in every part of her body. She and said, "You are Vidyadharas. All this happened due
was called Vidyutprabha. He married her and lived with to a curse. Now you and your people are liberated from
them for a while. Then he said to his mother-in-law the curse. So learn the duties and functions of your
"Mother now give me the bangle. I must go to Kasi.
! class and with your people take your proper place in
I have
promised the King to get the mate of this bangle." the society." Having taught them everything they re-
Vidyucchikha gave her son-in-law her bangle and a quired he disappeared. Thus the Vidyadhara brothers,
golden lotus flower which he accepted with great joy. As having plucked golden lotus reached the peak of the
before he came with the giantess to the burial-ground Himalayas through the sky. Asokadatta went to Vidyut-
through the sky. Then she said"! shall be here on every prabha who also having been liberated from curse be-
fourteenth lunar night on the root of this tree in the came a Vidyadhara girl. With that beautiful girl the
burial-ground. If you want to see me come on that day." two brothers continued their journey and reached Kasi
"I shall do so", so saying Asokadatta came away and where they bowed before their parents. That reunion
went to his parents. They were stricken with grief at the appeared to be a dream or something nearing madness
departure and exile of their remaining son. They were to their parents. They could not believe their eyes.
overcome by joy at the return of their son. Not waiting As'okadatta and Vijayadatta each saying his name bowed
long he went to the King, his father-in-law, who embrac- before them. Their parents lifted them up and embraced
ed him with joy. As'okadatta gave him the two bangles. them and them on the head, and cried for joy.
kissed
He presented the golden lotus flower also. The King and They did not know what to do or what to say. Their
the queen were amazed at the daring spirit of ASokad itta minds were incapable of thinking. Everybody heard
who told them in detail everything that had happened to this and was amazed at it. The King was also filled
him. The fame of ASokadatta grew higher and higher. with joy. He came there and took them to the palace.
The King and the queen thought it a blessing that they Asokadatta gave all the lotus flowers to the King, who
got so adventurous a son-in-law. Next day the King got was happy and joyful at the achievement of more than
a casket made of silver and placed the golden lotus at the he had hoped for. Everybody appreciated them.
mouth of the casket and placed it on the step of his own Govindasvami, in the presence of the King asked
temple for everyone to see. The white casket and the Vijayadatta to tell his story from the moment he turned
red lotus were very charming to look at and they glistened a giant in the burial-place; "We are very curious to
as the fame of the King and of Asokadatta. One day the hear it" he said. Vijayadatta began to say "Father,
King looked at it with pleasure and said "If we could you have seen how my mischief, I had brok-
because of
get one more lotus like this, we could make another casket en that skull and some
viscous liquid fell into my
and place it side of this". As soon as he heard it
on the left mouth and I changed to a
giant. After that the other
Asokadatta said "If the King orders it shall be brought". giants gave me the name Kapalasphota. They invited
But the King said "Ho ' you need not go anymore me into their midst. We
lived together. After a few
on erranda like this. not such an urgent need".
This is days they took me to the presence of the King of the
After a few days the fourteenth lunar night came. Leav- giants. As soon as he saw me he was pleased with me
ing his wife the princess sleeping in the bed he left the and appointed me as the commander-in-chief of the
palace and reached the burial-ground. He saw his mother- army. He who was overconfident in his power went to
in-law the giantess and went with her to the city of the war with the Gandharvas and was killed in the fight.
giant and lived there happily for a while with his wife From that day onwards all the giants came under my
Vidyutprabha. When he was about to retur n he requested control. Then I met with brother who came to
my
Vidyucchikha to give him one more golden lotus. She said pluck the golden lotus flowers from my lake. With this
that there was no more lotus with her and that they grew all the previous conditions of my life had vanished.
ASOKASUNDARI ASTADRAVYA(S)
My brother will say the rest of the story. When Vijaya- (5) Mitravinda (6) Satya (7) Bhadra and (8) Lak-
datta had finished saying Asokadatta continued the sana.
story. ASTABUDDHIGUNA (S) Eight qualities of the intel-
.
Long ago when we were Yidyadharas both of us were lect.Susrusa, Sravana, Grahana, Dharana, Cha, Apoha,
going through the sky and we saw the hermit maids Arthavijnana, and Tattvajnana.
of the hermitage of Galava, bathing in the Ganges. We ASTACURNA. A mixture of eight powders. The eight
wished to get those girls. The hermits who saw this things are Cukku (dry ginger), Mulaku (chilli)
:
with their divine eyes cursed that we would take birth Tippali (long pepper) Ayamodaka (celery seed) Jlraka
a* men and in that birth we would be separated in a (baraway seed) Karirhjiraka (black caraway seed)
wonderful way and both of us would unite again in a Intuppu (sodium chloride) and Kayam (asafoetida).
place where man could not reach and we would ASTADASAPURANA (S) . The eighteen puranas. See
DC liberated from the curse and learn everything from under Purana.
the teacher, and would become the old Vidyadharas ASTADH ARMAMARGA( S) Eight ways of attaining
.
with our people. And according to this curse we took moksa Yaga, Vedabhyasa, Dana, Tapas, Satya, Ksama,
:
birth as men and separation was effected. You all have Daya, lack of desire.
heard it. Today I went to the lake of the King of the ASTADH ATU (S). Eight minerals gold, : silver, copper,
giants, with the help of my mother-in-law the giantess tin, zinc, black lead, iron and mercury.
for plucking the golden lotus flowers and recovered my ASTADIGGAJAS and ASTADIKKARlNlS. There are
brother, this Vijayadatta. There we learned everything eight male and eight female elephants standing guard
from our teacher Prajnapti Kausika and became over the eight zones. They are :
Vidyadharas and have arrived here as fast as we could." Zone Male Female
Thus he informed them everything that had occuired. East Airavata Abhramu
Afterwards by the learning he received from his teacher South-east Pundarika Kapila
he changed his parents and the daughter of the King South Vamana Pirigala
into Vidyadharas and then bidding adieu to the King South-west Kumuda Anupama
Asokadatta, with his two wives, parents and brother West Anjana Tamrakarm
went to the emperor of the Vidyadharas through the North-west Puspadanta SubhradantI
sky. When they reached there Asokadatta and Vijaya- North Sarvabhauma Angana
datta changed their names into Asokavega and Vijaya- North-east Supra tika Aftjanavati
vega. According to the orders of the emperor those (Amarakosa)
Vidyadhara youths went to the mountain of Govinda- Besides these, there are four diggajas (elephants of the
ku|a with their people as it was their abode, and universe) who bear the earth standing below in the
lived with happiness and joy. King Pratapamukuta nether world. It is stated that the sons of Sagara who
with wonder took one of the golden lotus flowers and went into the nether land in search of the lost horse of his
placed it in the temple and with the rest he made father saw these elephants. As they went to the east
oblations to god and considered his family to have they saw the huge elephant Virupaksa, holding the
made wonderful achievements. ( Kathasaritsagara, earth on its head. It is said an earthquake occurs when
Gaturdarikalamba, Taraiiga 2) . for a change it shakes its head. Going to the left of it
ASOKASUNDARl. See the word Nahusa. they saw the elephant Mahapadmasama holding the
earth on its head on the south. Going again to the left
ASOKATlRTHA. A holy place near the temple of of it they saw Saumanasa holding the earth on its head
Surparaka. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 88, on the west and going to the left of it on the north
Stanza 13).
they saw Bhadra holding the earth on its head. (Val-
AOKAVANIKA. A famous park in Lanka. It was in miki Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga 40).
'
thispark that Ravana kept Sita having stolen her from ASTADIK(S). (Eight zones) East, South-east, South,
.
Sri Rama. It is described in Valmiki Ramayana, South-west, West, North-west, North and North-east.
Sundarakanda, Sarga 14 and Aranyakanda, Saiga 56 ASTADIKPALAKA(S). The Devi Bhagavata states like
and Mahabharata also
in : this about the eight zones and their guardians. Situated
"Thinking of her husband alone, clad in the garments in the eight different zones of the Brahmaloka are eight
of a hermit woman, eating only roots and fruits, in big cities of the eight guardians of these zones each
prayer and fast, in sorrow and sadness, she of the wide covering an area of 2500 yojanas. All these are on the
eyes lived in the Asoka park which seemed as a hermit- top of Maharneru and Brahma sits in the centre in his
age." (Bhasa Bharata, Aranya Parva Chapter 280 city called Manovatl. Around his city are the others as
Stanzas 42 and 43) .
follows :
ASTABANDHA. A kind of plaster used for fixing idols (1) On the east is AmaravatI, city of Indra.
in temples. The following eight things are mixed and (2) On South-east is TejovatI, city ofAgni.
(3) On the South is SariiyamanT, cityofYama.
ground consecutively for fortyone days and made ready On the South-west is Krsnanjana, city of Nirrti.
to be put in the cavity around the idol when it is fixed (4)
there finally, (1) conch-powder (2) powdered myro- (5) On the West is Sraddhavati, city of Varuna.
balam resin (6) On the North-west is Gandhavati, city of Vayu.
(3) (4) Kolipparal (a kind of rock)
river
(5)
sand (6) powder of emblic myrobalam (7) lac (7) On the North is Mahodaya, city of Kubera.
and (8) cotton. (8) On the North-east is YaSovatl, city of Siva.
(Astama Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
ASTABHARYA(S). The eight wives of Sri Krsna. (1 ) ASTADRAVYA(S). Eight substances of great medicinal
Rukmini (2) Jambavati (3) Satya bhama (4)"kalindi value.
63 ASTALOHA(S)
ASTADUTAGANA(S)
Arayal, (Asvattha Fig tree) (2) Atti (Udumbara
(1)
Narada who should get down if only two were permitted to
Keg tree) (3) Plasu (Palasa Downy branch butea) enter heaven. 'Vasumanas', said Narada and explained
(4) Peral (Vata-Banyan tree) (5) Camata (6) Ellu the reason. Narada went to the house of Vasumanas
three times and each time the latter spoke highly of his
(Sesame) (7) Vayasa (Krsnaguru cedar tree (8) Ghee.
ASTADUTAGUNA(S). The eight qualities of a good chariot. Narada also joined in praising his flower-cha-
messenger. (1) He should not stand perplexed when riotand the brahmins present theie also followed suit.
he is being given the message to carry. (2) He must Pleased at this Vasumanas became proud of his possession
be smart and enthusiastic. (3) He must have compas- and his vainglorious talks made him unfit. Then Astaka
sion for those in distress. (4) He must run his errand asked if only one were allowed to go to heaven who
quickly. (5) He must be mild. (6)
He should not be should go. 'Sibi', said Narada immediately. Even Narada
duped by the cunning words of others. (7) He must would be only next to Sibi and Narada explained the
be healthy. (8) He must be able to talk convincingly. reason thus. Once a brahmin went to Sibi for food. Sibi
ASTAGANDHA. Akil (Eaglewood), Candana (Sandal), asked him what food he relished most and the brahmin
Guggulu (Indian Bdellium), Manci (JatamamsI-Spi- said that he would like to have the fresh flesh of Sibi's
kenard) Kuiikuma (saffron) Kofta(Kustta-bostus root),
, only son, Brhadgarbha. Without even the slightest hesi-
Ramacca (Usiram-Sweet rush), Iruveli (Valaka). tation Sibi killed his son and cooked his flesh and when
( Ayurveda)
the food was ready he went out to invite the brahmin.
ASTAGUNA (S) (1) Bhutadaya, Ksama, Anasuya,
. But on going out the King saw the brahmin setting
Gaurava, Anayasa, Marigala, Akarpanya and Asprha. fire to his palace,
treasury, armoury, stables, harem and
(2) Buddhibala, Kulasuddhi, Sama, Learning,
Para- elephant-sheds. Without even a quiver on his face, the
krama, Mitabhasana, Dana and Krtajnata. king respectfully took the brahmin inside and gave him
(3) Absence of Jealousy, Rjutva, Sucitva, Santosa, food. The brahmin was amazed at the patience of the
Bhasanabharigi, Sama, Satya, Sthairya. King and sitting before his food for some time told the
ASTAJIHVA. One of the soldiers of Skanda Deva. King that he would be satisfied if the King himself ate
(Sloka 62, Chapter 45, Salya Parva, M.B.) . that food. Respecting the request the King was about to
ASTAKA. See under Astika. eat the flesh of his own son when the brahmin who was
ASfAKA I. A King of the Puru dyansty. none other than Brahma in disguise praised him for
Genealogy. Descended in order from Visnu as follows : his devotion and gave him back his son adorned with
Brahma- Atri-Candra - Budha-Pururavas-Ayus-Nahusa- sweet smelling flowers and disappeared blessing them.
Yayati-Puru-Janamejaya-Pracinva Pravira -Namasyu-
- When his ministers questioned him about this Sibi said,
who should step down from the aeroplane if only four ASTAKAPALAM. Purodasa prepared out of eight
were allowed to go to heaven. "Astaka", replied Narada Kapalas. (Sloka 24, Chapter 221, Sand Parva, M.B.).
and explained the reason also. Once when Narada ASTAKARANA(S). Manas (mind), Buddhi (intelli-
stayed at the asrama of Astaka the former found many gence), Citta (thought), Aharhkara (egotism ), Sariikalpa
varieties of cows there and asked Astaka whose they in the mind (imagination) determination, pride from
,
were. Then in self praise Asjaka had said that all egotism and Avadharana in Citta.
those were cows which he had given away as gifts. ASTAKASTA(S). Kama (lust), Krodha (anger), Lobha
Astaka then asked who should get down if only three (greed), Moha (delusion), Mada (arrogance), Mat-
were allowed to go to heaven. 'Pratardana', said sarya (rivalry), Dambha (pride) and Asuya (jealousy).
Narada and explained the reason. Once when ASTAKOPAVYASANA (S) .
(1) Paisunya (2) Sahasa
Pratardana was taking Narada in the former's chariot (3) Droha (5) Irsya (5) Asuya (6) Arthadusana
four brahmins one behind the other approached him (7) Vagdanda and (8) Parusya.
and begged for a horse each. When Pratardana asked ASTAKUMBHA(S). Suryabheda, Ujjayl, Silkkarl,
for some time the brahmins were not prepared to wait Sitall, Bhramarl, Murccha and Plavinl. All
Bhastika,
and so he gave all but one of his four horses and asked these have to be practised by students of Yoga. (Moksa-
the fourth to wait. As he was also found to be persistent pradTpam) .
he gave the one drawing his chariot also and dragged the ASTALOHA( S) Eight metals. .
chariot himself but abusing the brahmins all the way. It 1. Suvarnam Gold.
was that abuse that gave him the slur. Then Astaka asked 2. Rajatam Silver.
ASTAMAftGALA 64 ASTAVAKRA
3. Tamram Copper. 4) Pranaydma. Control of Prana (Prana is the life giving
4. S.sakam Lead. breath and ayama is the checking of it) Select an airy .
(4) KalaiU (5) Vastra (6) Aksatam (7) Arigana Ghranam sarhpidya mantravit
( 8) Svarna Idaya purayedvayuih
ASTAMANOGUNA (S) Paratva (2) Aparatva (3)
.
(1)
Matra sotlasabhih kramat
Sarhkhya (4) Parimana (5) Prthakta (6) Sam-yoga Angusjhanamikabhyanca
(7) Vibhaga (8) Vega.' Dhrtva nasadvayaiii tatah
ASTAMANTRl(S). The eight ministers of the kings of Tatastu kampayedvayum
I ksvakudynasty are: (1) Jayanta (2) Drsti (3)Vijaya Puraka.na.rii caturganaih
(4) Siddhartha (5) Arthasadhaka (6) Asoka Anamaya t.ttha vama-
(7) Mantrapala (8) Sumantra.
Nasarn dhrtva tu daksine
ASTAMARGAS. Samyagdrsti, Samyaksankalpa, Samyag- Dvatrimsadbhistu matrabhir
vak, Samyakkarma, Samyagajiva, Samyagvyayama, Vayurecanamacaret.
Samyaksm.-ti and Samyaksamadhi.The Buddha Sannya- Closing the right nostril by the thumb of the right
sins have to live according to these eight directives of hand and inhaling air inside through the left nostril
life. taking 16 seconds called Puraka. Closing the nostiils
is
ASTAMBA(S). See the sixth Khandika under Devi. by the thumb and ring-finger arid keeping the breath
ASTAMl. The third skandha of Devi Bhagavata states for 64 seconds is called Kumbhaka. Closing the left
that the goddess, BhadrakalT, came into life on an nostril well and then exhaling through the right nost-
AstamI day to block up the yaga of Daksa. That is taking 32 seconds is called Recaka. Purakas should
ril
why the day is considered to be holy and important. be done through the same nostril through which you
ASTAMCRTI(S) Earth, Water, Air, Fire, Ether, Hota,
. have done Recaka. (You must do at least ten Prana-
Sun and Moon. yamas at a time) .
ASTANAGA(S). Eight snakes. Vasuki; Taksa, Karko- 5) Pralydhara. Withdrawing the mind from worldly
taka, Sarhkha, Gulika, Padma, Mahapadma and objects and sensuous pleasures.
Ananta. 6) Dhyana. Keeping your mind fixed on the tip of your
ASTANGAHRDAYA. The medical science which deals nose. Meditation.
in eight separate division the treatment of the human you should know.
7) Dharana. Steadily thinking of things
body. (1) Sarlra (2) Bala (3) Graha (4) Urddhva- Concentration.
nga (5) Salya (6) Darhsfra (7) Jara and (8) Vrsa. 8) Samadhi. The union of mind with God. This is a
Bala Body which has not attained maturity; Graha blissful superconscious state in which one perceives the
External elements which damage the health of infants; identity of the individualised soul and cosmic spirit.
Salya extraneous substance lodged in the body; Vrsa (Yogabhyasa).
The seminal fluid. (Directions of treatment). ASTAPRAMAl^AS. Eight means of getting correct know-
ASTANGAYOGA(S). Yama, Niyama, Asana, Prana- ledge. Pratyaksa, Anumana, Upamana, Sabda (Agama) ,
yama, Pratyahara, Dhyana, Dharana and Samadhi. Arthapatti, Anupalabdhi (Abhava) Sambhava, Aitihya.
1
)
Yama. That which prevents the yogis from doing ASTARAGADIS. Raga, Dvesa, Kama, Krodha, Lobha,
prohibited thing*. Ahirhsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahma- Moha, Mada and Matsarya Raga Desire for sensuous
(
carya and Aparigraha are yamas. pleasures. Desire to seek vengeance on those who
Dvesa
2) Niyama. Actions leading to Moksa. They are : have offended you. Kama Desire for worldly posses-
(1) SAUCA Cleanliness of the mind cleaning it of sions. Krodha Anger, Lobha Miserliness. Moha
such bad qualities like jealousy. (2) TAPAS indiffe- Delusion. Mada Pride.
Matsarya Jealousy.
rence (Samatvabhava) to the pairs of opposites like ASTATARANl. Eight names of Taranidevi. They are :
pleasure and pain, heat and cold etc. (3) Svadhyaya Tara, Ugra, Mahogra, Vajra, Kali, Sarasvati, Kames-
pursuit of the science of salvation chanting of OM. varl and Camunda.
(4) SANTOSA remaining happy and contented. ASTAVAKRA.
(5) ISVARA-'PRAI^IDHANA surrendering all ac- 1) Birth. The sage Uddalaka had a disciple named
tions to God. Khagodara (Kahodara) and a daughter named Sujata.
3) Asana. Postures of sitting firmly and comfortably. Of Appreciating the devotion and good conduct of his
the many asarias the very prominent ones are Svasti- :
disciple, Uddalaka gave his daughter Sujata in marri-
kasana, Virasana, Padmasana, Siddhasana, Vastrasana, age to him. Sujata became pregnant. When once
Vyaghracarmasana, Valkalasana, Kusasana, Krsnasana, Khagodara was reciting from the Vedas the babe in the
Vistarasani, Mayurasana and Kurmasana. Of these womb of Sujata said, "I have learnt the mantra you
Siddhasana is considered to be the best of the lot. This are chanting but the way you chant it is wrong". (The
asana strengthens the 72,000 nerves of the human system vibrations of sound created by the utterance of each
and all the yogis prefer this to any other. "Kimanyaih word is important) Khagodara was angry and he curs-
.
bahubhih pUhaih pi the Siddhasane sad" (of what use ed his babe in the womb thus "Since your mind seems
are the others when there is
Siddhasana) . to be crooked let your body also be of that type, with
ASTAVAKRA 65 ASTAVASU(S)
curves all over". When Sujata delivered the child it a sage named Asita. He did great penance to please Siva
had eight bends and light curves and so the boy was to bless him with
a child. Siva blessed him and he got a
named Astavakra, meaning one with eight bends. son named Devala. Rambha, the queen of devaloka, fell
(Chapter 132, Vana Parva, M.B.). in love with him but Devala did not yield to her wishes.
2 Father died before he was born. When Sujata was preg-
)
Then Rambha cursed him and made him into one with
nant they suffered much from poverty and at the in- eight crooks. Thus Devala came to be called Astavakra.
sistence of Sujata, Khagodara went to the King Janaka, Hethen did penance for six thousand years and Bhaga-
to beg for some money. Janaka was performing a yaga van Krsna accompanied by Radha appeared before hun.
then and so Khagodara had to wait. When at last he Radha was shocked by the ugliness of the sage and did
went to the royal assembly he was asked to enter into not relish his sight. But Krsna asking her to remain
a polemical contest with Vandina, the court scholar and quiet went and embraced him. At once Astavakra lost
having been defeated by him was asked to drown him- all his crooks and became a beautiful man. At that time
self. a chariot descended from heaven and all of them went
Uddalaka got a son named Svetaketu and Sujata deli- to heaven in it. (Brahmavaivartta Purana) .
vered Astavakra. Both the boys grew in the asrama 6) Other information. (1) Astavakra was also present
on great intimacy and Sujata withheld the news of the among the rsis who partook in the coronation ceremony
death of her husband from the boys. (Chapter 132, conducted after Rama's return to Ayodhya from Larika.
Vana Parva, M.B.). ( Uttararamayana)
.
3) How Khagodara was got back. One day the two boys (2) Astavakra cursed those celestial maidens who re-
went to bathe in the river and during a controversial buked him for his ugliness and they were born on earth
talk Svetaketu said that Astavakra had no father. This as the wives of Sri Krsna. When after the death of
teased him much and Astavakra went to his mother Krsna they were being taken by Arjuna to the north they
and gathered all the facts about his father. He went, were forcibly taken by some of the shepherds. (Chapter
then, straight to the royal assembly of King Janaka. 15, Agni Purana).
He was not allowed inside. The gate keeper said that he ASTAVAKRATIRTHA. If one observes complete fasting
was only a boy and only learned men could go inside for twelve days doing tarpana in this sacred pond it is
the sacrificial hall. Astavakra contended that neither said that he gets the benefit of doing of Naramedha-
.
size nor age was any indication of one's knowledge or yajna. (Sloka 41, Chapter 25, Anusasana Parva, M.B.).
worth and got himself admitted into the hall. There ASTAVAKTRA. See under Astavakra.
he entered into a polemical contest with the same court ASTAVARGA(S). Meda, Mahameda, Kakoli, Ksirakakoli,
scholar,Vandina, who had killed his father. Vandina jivaka, Itavaka, Rddhi, Vi'ddhi (These are used in infu-
was defeated and was thrown into the same river in sions for treating rheumatism) .
son for a bath and when it was over Astavakra became Anala, Pratyusa and Prabhasa. (Slokas 17 and 18,
a bright boy without crooks. (Chapter 133, Vana Chapter 66, Adi Parva, M.B.). There is a version in
Parva, M.B.) certain puranas that the Astavasus are the sons of
4) Marriage. Astavakra wanted to marry Suprabha, the Kasyapa.
daughter of a sage named Vadanya. When Vadanya was Different puranas give different names to these Asta-
approached for this the Sage decided to test the love vasus. According to Visnu Purana they are Apa,
:
which Astavakra had towards his daughter and said: "I Dhruva, Soma, Dharma, Anila, Anala, Pratyusa and
am going to test you. You go to the north to the Hima- Prabhasa. (Chapter 15 of AmSaml). In Bhagavata
layas. Pay homage to Siva and Parvatl and go further they are Drona, Prana, Dhruva, Arka, Agni, Dosa,
north. There you will find a very beautiful damsel. You Vasu and Vibhavasu. In Harivarhsa they are :
Akha,
talk to her and return and when you come back I shall Dhara, Dhruva, Soma, Anila, Anala, Pratyusa and
give you my daughter." Prabhasa. This only indicates that some of these have
Accepting this challenge Astavakra went north. When two or more names for them.
he went to the Himalayas Kubera entertained him. He 2) Curse ofVasistha. Once the Astavasus were enjoy-
remained there for a year enjoying the dances of celes- ing a picnic with their wives and they happened to go
tial maidens and then, after worshipping Siva and to the asrama of Vasistha. One of the wives got ena-
Parvatl went further north. There he came across seven moured over Nandini, Vasistha's beautiful cow and
very attractive women. At the command of Astavakra wanted it. The Vasu to please his wife took the cow by
the eldest of the lot, Uttara, remained with him; all the force and left the place. When the sage found his cow
rest left the place immediately she started making love missing after some time he understood by his divine
with him and requested him to marry her. But Asta- powers who stole the cow and so he cursed the Asta-
vakra did not yield and told her about his promise to vasus saying that all of them would be born on earth as
Vadanya. Pleased at this reply Uttara revealed that she men. The Astavasus were greatly worried and approach-
was the queen of the north in disguise and was testing ed the sage apologising and craving for pardon. The sage
him. She then blessed Asfavakra who fulfilling his relaxed the curse and declared that their life on earth
mission successfully, returned and married the girl he would be only for a very short time maintaining that
wanted. (Chapter 19, AnuSasana Parva, M.B.). the particular Vasu who committed the theft would live
5) Another version of how the body became crooked. There for a long time as man. It was this Vasu, Apa (Dyau)
is another
story also about Astavakra. Once there lived who was born as Bhlsma.
ASTAVASU(S) 66 ASTRA
3) Rebirth of Affavasus.
The Astavasus were pondering Sambhu, Kapardi, Raivata, Mrgavyadha, Sarva and
over the curse and were thinking of how to bear it Kapali were the sons of Tvasta. These are known as the
without hardship when Garigadevi appeared before them twelve Rudns. Puranas say that there are a hundred
and they then appealed to her: "Devi, if you become Rudrys like this. (Chapter 15, AmSa 1, Visnu Purana) .
the queen on earth of some noble King we shall be born ASTAVIDHANAYIKA(S). Eight kinds of heroines of
as yoursons and you must throw us into the river as the stiige :
soon as we are born". Gangadevi accepted their request. (1) Svddhinapatikd. Fit to be a counterpart in a love
Once there was a King called Pratipa in the Candra scene and play the role of one whois
always fondled by
One day when this ascetic King was worship- her husband.
dynasty.
on the banks of the river Gaiiga a beautiful
ping Surya (2) Vdsakasajjikd (Vdsakasajjd). Adorning herself well
damsel arose from the waters and sat on the right and waiting for her lover in a well decorated bedroom.
the King told her thus, "Oh Exhausted by the sorrow of separa-
thigh of the King. Surprised (3) Virahotkan(hitd.
beautiful maiden, who are you ? Do you realise what tion from her lover.
unrighteous thing you have
done ? I am not one who (4) Vipralabdhd. Cheated by her lover after fixing a
it was a bit
goes after women and daring of you to date and a rendezvous.
have taken me as a beau. Please understand that the (5) Khanditd. Angered at the arrival of the husband in
for a daughter and daughter-in-
right thigh is intended the early hours of the morning with
suspicion about his
law. You can claim this right when you become the character.
wife of my son." The beautiful girl was none other than (6) Kalahdntarita. Repenting after having arrogantly
Gangadevi herself and she disappeared soon on receiving disobeyed her husband.
the rebuke. One who has gone weak and moody
(7) Prositabhartrkd.
Pratipa got a son named Santanu
and Gangadevi be- about her husband in a foreign place.
thinking
came the wife of Santanu. (For more details about this (8) Abhisarika. One who approaches her husband with
see under Gaiiga). When Gangadevi became the wife of great passion. (Natyakrama) .
after the other she threw into the river seven sons but ASTAVIVAHA(S). Eight kinds of marriage. (1) Brahma
when she was about to throw the eighth the King (2) Daiva (3) Arsa (4) Prajapatya (5) Gandharva
objected to it and Ganga disappeared immediately. That (6) Asura (7) Raksasa (8) Paisaca. Brahma is the one
son was Bhisma, who was none other than Dyau born where the father gives her daughter with sacred water
on earth by the curse of Vasisfha. All the others, released to a bachelor without accepting anything in return. When
from the curse, went to heaven. (More details under the father gives his daughter to the priest at the time
Bhisma). of a yaga called Daiva. It is Arsa if the father gives
it is
4) A missile to Bhisma. When Bhisma had to fight against the daughter and gets in return a cow or bullock. When
his guru, ParaSurama, the Astavasus gave him the the father gives the daughter with her blessings it is
missile, Prasvapa. (See Amba) (Slokasll to 13, Chapter Prajapatya. The marriage between two lovers is Gan-
183, Udyoga Parva, M.B.) .
dharva. It is Asura when the male takes his mate by
5) Sons of Astavasus. The sons of Apa, the first of the force and it is PaiSacika (most cruel and
mean) when
Vasus, are Vaitandha, Srama, Santa and Dhvani. Kala,
: the girl is taken as his wife when she is in a state of
the destroyer of all, is the son of Dhruva. Varcas is the unconsciousness.
son of Soma. Dharma got of his wife Manohari five sons
ASTAYOGINl(S). The eight hermit-maidens who are the
Dravina, Hutahavyavaha, Sisira, Prana and Varuna. attendants of the goddess, Durga. (1) Marjjati (2)
Siva was Anila's wife and she got two sons, Manojava
Karpuratilaka (3) Malayagandhini (4) Kaumudika
and Avijnatagati. Agni's son Kumara was born at
(5) Bherunda(6) Matali (7) Nayaki (8) Jaya (Subha-
Sarastamba. Kumara got three brothers, Sakha, Visakha cara ) .
art. The aeroplanes of the devas were designed by him. went to war with the Yadavas because of the per-
Men on earth depend on his art even now. That archi- suasion of these daughters.
tect had four sons Aj ik.npat, Ahirbudhnya, Tvasfa
: ASTRA. After killing the demoness, Tajaka, Visvamitra
and Rudra, the bold. The great ascetics, VisVarupa, reveals to Rama and Laksmana the secret of using a
Hara, Bahurupa, Tryambaka, Aparajita, Vrsakapi, great many varieties of Divyastras (Divyastra is a missile
ASURA 67 ASVAPATI I
charged with power by holy incantation) . Some of and a drama called Sariputraprakarana. He lived in
those astras are named below: the2nd Century A.D. His history of Buddha (Buddha-
1. Dandacakra 2. Dharmacakra carita) was translated into Chinese during the period
3. Kalacakra 4. Visnucakra 414 to 421 A.D. He was known under the following
5. Indracakra 6. Vajrastra names also: Acarya, Bhadanta, Mahavadi and Bhiksu.
7. Saivasula 8. Aislka AS"VAGRIVA. Son born to the Sage, Kasyapa by his
9. Brahmasirastra 10. Brahmastra wife, Danu. (Sloka 24, Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.) .
37. Madanastra 38. Mohastra AVAMEDHA I. A country of ancient India which was
39. Saumanastra 40. Samvartastra King named Rocaman. Bhlmasena conquered
ruled by a
41. Satyastra 42. Mayadharastra himduring the world-wide conquering campaign.
43. Tejaprabhastra 44. Saumyastra (Sloka 8, Chapter 29, Sabha Parva) .
45. Sisirastra 46. Tvasjastra ASVAMEDHA II. A yaga. Kings used to conduct this
47. Sudamanastra in order to get absolved of all sins. Fixing a victory
Sri Rama received all these astras
standing facing east. card on the head of a horse it is allowed to roam about
(Sarga 27, Balakanda, Valmiki Ramayana) anybody stops the horse and ties it, the King
freely. If
ASURA. Those born to Kasyapa of his wife Danu are should go and defeat him in battle and bring back the
called Danavas and those born of his wife Dili are call- horse. If you do a hundred such y'gas you can become
ed Daityas. They belong to the demonaic dynasty (Re- Indra.*
fer under 'Asuravarhsa' in the
genealogy chart) Re- . ASVAMEDHA. Son of King Sahasranlka (Refer under
nowned among the asuras were the following : Sahasranlka) .
Prahlada, Sarhhlada, Anuhlada, Sibi, Baskala, Virocana, ASVAMEDHADATTA. Son born to Satanlka of the
Kumbha, Nikumbha, Bali, Bana, Mahakala, Vipracitti, princess of Videha. (Sloka 86, Chapter 95, Adi Parva,
Sambara, Namuci, Puloma, Visruta, Asiloma, KesI, M.B.).
Durjaya, Ayassiras, Asvassiras, Asva, Saiiku, Mahabala, ASVAMEDHAPARVA. A parva of the Mahabharta.
Garga, Murdha, Vegavan, Ketuman, Svarbhanu, Asva- See under Bharata.
pati, Vrsaparva, Ajaka, Asvagriva, Suksma, Tuhunda, ASvANADl. A river in the country of Kuntibhoja.
Ekapad, Ekacakra, Vimpaksa, Harahara, Candra, AsvanadI joins CarmanvatI and the latter joins the
Kupata, Kapata, Para, Sarabha, Salabha, Surya and Yamuna and the Yamuna into the
Candramas. joining Ganga falls
ocean. It was through this river that Kuntldevi floated
ASURA. One of the eight daughters born to Kasyapa
in a box the infant Karna. At night accompanied by
of his wife Pradha. (Sloka 41, Chapter 65. Adi Parva,
her maid, Kunti floated the box containing her illegiti-
M.B.). mate son and stood on the banks of AsvanadI weeping
ASCRBANI PAL. ( See under Gilgamis, Jalapralay a)
bitterly. Then thinking that her father would notice
.
ASURTARAJASA. A son born to King Kusa of his her absence from the palace she returned home soon.
wife VaidarbhI. Kusamba, Kusanabha,
Asurtarajasa The box floated and reached the country, Campapurl,
and Vasu are the four sons of Kusa. (Sarga 32, Bala-
ruled by a charioteer. (Slokas 22 to 26, Chapter 308,
kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) .
ASVA I. A demon. This was the same demon who later Aranya Parva, M.B.).
on was born as Asoka, King of Kaliiiga. (Chapter 67, ASVARATHA. A river in the Gandhamadana valley
Adi Parva, M.B.) .
flowing near the Asrama of the sage Ars{iena. Many
AVA II. A maharsi. The sage Vasa is the son of this kings of the Candra dynasty used to come and stay in
this asrama. (Sloka 10, Chapter 160, Vana Parva, M.B.) .
rsi. (Sukta 1 12 of
Rgveda).
ASVA (Horse) Horses and camels were born, in this
. ASVAS~A1SIKU. Son of Kasyapa born of his wife Danu.
world, of Tamra, wife of Kasyapa, grandson of Brahma. (Sloka 21, Chapter 67, Adi Parva, M.B.).
(Agni Purana, Chapter 19). ASVAPATI I. Father of the most chaste woman, Savitri.
AlsVAGHOSA. A famous Sanskrit poet. He has written He was King of Madra. He was without children for a
many Sanskrit books prominent among which are long period and for eighteen years he worshipped the
the two great poems, Buddhacarita and Saundarananda
goddess, Savitri and got a maiden from Agnihotra whom
* sacrifice was performed by autocrats to establish their
Asvamedha_or horse supreme sovereignty. For this the horse let out to roam
about should go into all coutttries. Those who opposed the sovereignty of the King could stop the horse and tie it. Then the King hatf
to defeat him before conducting the yaga. The vedas enjoin that the sacrificial horse should be followed by a hundred young men ceadv
to fight those who opposed the King. Indra had conducted a hundred such yagas.
ASVAPATI II ASVATTHAMA
he named as Savitri. For more details sec under Savitri. The boy was, therefore, named so. (Slokas 48 and 49,
(Chapter 293, Vana Parva, M.B.). Chapter 130, M.B.).
AaVAPATI II. The son born to Kasyapa of his wife 3 ) Training in archer}!. Asvatthama took his lesson in
Danu. (Sloka 24, Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.). archery from his father Drona. At that time Drona got
ASVASENA. A serpent which lived in the forest of new lessons from Parasurama and they were also im-
Khandava. This was the son of Taksaka and he tried parted to Drona's disciples. When Drona became the
his best to escape from the fire that burnt the forest.
preceptor of the Kauravas and Pandavas Asvatthama
(Sloka 5, Chapter 239, Adi Parva M.B.) ;
. also went with him. (Slokas 52 to 64, Chapter 130, Adi
Once when Arjuna and Kt?na were sitting on the banks Parva, M.B.) .
of the river Yamuna, Agni'approached them and request- 4) Drona's affection for his son. Drona was very affec-
ed them to help him burn the forest of Khandava (see tionate to his son and wanted to teach him something
under Khandavadaha ) They agreed to help him and
.
special in archery. So he used to instruct him during
Agni started burning the forest. Indra poured rains over the time the other disciples went to fetch water for the
the fire; Arjuna created a canopy of arrows and prevent- asrama. Arjuna came to know of this and he, there-
ed the rains from falling down. Asvasena, son of after, started bringing his quota of water quickly
Taksaka tried to escape from the fire but Arjuna obs- enough to join the special class of Drona. Thus Arjuna
tructed his way by arrows. Then Asvasena's mother and Asvatthama leai ned a lot more than the others in
swallowed him and kept him in her stomach. Arjuna the military art. (Slokas 17-19, Chapter 132, Adi
cut off her head.
Seeing this Indra sent a cyclone to Parva, M.B.) .
smash the canopy of arrows and Arjuna fell fainting. 5) The Mahdbharata Battle and Asvatthama. In Sabha
Taking the opportunity Asvasena escaped. When Arjuna Parva we find AsVatthama participating in the Raja-
woke up from his unconscious state he found Asvasena suya of Yudhisthira. After that we meet him only at
missing. Then Arjuna cursed him thus "Let not you
: the Kuruksetra war. Fighting on the side of the Kau-
get refuge anywhere." (Chapter 226, Adi Parva, M.B.) . ravas he played a very important role in that war. He
Asvasena kept his grudge against Arjuna till the end. killed many warriors and kings including the
veteran
In the great battle Arjuna and Karna met for a fight following : Nila,
Afijanaparva, Suratha, Satrunjaya,
and when Karna sent his Nagastra (serpent missile) Balanika,Jayanika, Jayasva, Srutasva, Hemamali, Vtsa-
against Arjuna, Asvasena hid himself in that missile dhara,Candrasena, the ten sons of Kuntibhoja, Sudar-
and burnt the beautiful headwear of Arjuna. But Karna sana, Vrddhaksetra, Cediraja, Malayadhvaja and Sura-
did not like this foul play and refused to accept him tha. He defeated many including Sikhanctt, Abhimanyu,
when he came back. Enraged at this the serpent attacked Virata, Satyaki and Vindhya. By using Agneyastra
Arjuna directly and was killed. Before his death he got (the arrow of fire) he made Krsna and Arjuna fall
acquainted with Krsna. (Chapter 96, Karna Parva, fainting in the battle-field. He commanded the Kaurava
M.B.). army once. He killed many Pancalas and Somakas
ASVASlRAS I. A son born to Kasyapa of Danu. (Sloka while they were sleeping. In Chapter 139 of Drona
23, Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.) . Parva we read about Arjuna defeating Asvatthama in
ASVASlRAS II. Bhagavan Hayagriva who was teaching a single combat one day.
the Vedas at Vaihayasakunda near Naranarayanasrama. 6) Asvatthama sees a ghost. Dhrstadyumna, son of King
(Sloka 3, Chapter 127, Santi Parva, M.B.). Pancala, killed Drona. When Asvatthama heard of
ASVASlRASTHANA(M). A sacred place in ancient his father's death his rage knew no bound. He imme-
India. Arjuna dreams of going to Siva with Krsna and
diately went to the heart of the military camp of the
in that dream Pandavas, Krpa and Satvata following him. There at the
they visit this place also. (Chapter 80,
Drona Parva, M.B.) .
gate of the camp he beheld a ghostly apparition. It is
ASVATAKA. A country of ancient India. (Sloka 15, described in the Bhasa Bharata ( Malayalam version of
Chapter 51, Bhisma Parva, M.B.). M.B. ) as follows He saw a huge figure standing at the
:
AS VATAR A. A serpent. A sacred pond built in Prayaga door with a body blazing like the Sun and the Moon.
also carries name. (Sloka 76, Chapter 55, Vana
this Bathed in blood and wearing a tiger's skin in the loins
Parva and Sloka Chapter 35, Adi Parva, M.B.).
10, the figure wore a snake as his sacred thread and cover-
ASVATlRTHA. An ancient holy place on the banks of ed his upper body with a deer-skin. There were innu-
the river, Ganges, near Kanauj. It was at this place merable hands for this ghost and in each hand adorned
that the horses rose from the earth at the request of with snake-bangles he held a deadly weapon. With
Rclka Rsi to Varuna (See under AsVakrta). (Sloka crooked teeth and a ghastly face the goblin gave a
17, Chapter 4, M.B.) shiver to those who saw him. Flames bursting forth
ASVATTHAMA. from his eyes, ears, nose and mouth he barred the way
1 )Birth and genealogy. The semen of Bharadvaja Rsi of Asvatthama. Undaunted the son of Drona showered
fell into the hollow of a bamboo and from there was divine arrows on the figure. But the ghost by his sup-
born Drona. As per the instructions of his father Drona reme powers absorbed the arrows to his body the
married Krpi, daughter of the sage, Saradvata. The moment they touched him. In despair Asvatthama
good-natured Krpi gave birth to Asvatthama. (See meditated on Siva and the latter appearing before him
under Drona for genealogy). (Chapter 130, Adi Parva, in person gave him a divine dagger. With that he entered
M.B.) the bed-chamber of Dhrstadyumna, woke him up by
2 ) Ho:v he got his name. The moment he was born he striking him with his foot, caught hold of him by the
made a loud hoot like Uccaisravas and the sound resem- hair on his head and killed him.
bled the braying of a horse. Immediately a voice from 7) Aivatlhama and his jewel. The anger of Asvalthama did
heaven said that the boy should be named As\ atthama. not abate even after killing Dhrsfadyumna, the butcher
ASVATTHAMA II ASVINlKUMARA(S) ASVlNIDEVAS
With a view to destroying the whole Pand-
of his father. and Asvirudevas. These two are the physicians
ava dynasty he sent against the Panda vas the all-power- of the devas. (Sloka 12, Chapter 123, Aranya Parva,
ful Brahmasirastra (a missile charged with great power M.B) .
type of missile to Arjuna also and so he sent forth his to Brahma, Marlci, Kasyapa, Vivasvan (the Sun),
meet the other. It created such a great explosion that Asvinikumaras.
all the elders on both the sides joined together and re- 2) Birth. The Visnu Purana describes the birth thus:
quested them to withdraw the missiles. Arjuna demanded "Samjna, daughter of Visvakarma, was the wife of
the jewel on AsVatthama's head to withdraw his missile. Surya. She got three children Manu, Yama and Yaml.
:
But Asvatthama refused to part with it. He said, "This Once finding the effulgence of Surya unbearable she
jewel of mine is more valuable than all the wealth of both engaged Chaya to look after Surya and left for the
Pandavas and Kauravas put together. If you wear this forests to do penance there. Surya took Chaya to be
you need not be afraid of your enemies, disease, hunger Sarhjna and got three children of her Sanaiscara,
:
and thirst. No harm will come to you from Yaksas, (another) Manu and Tapati. Once Chaya got angry
and cursed Yama. It was then that Surya and Yama
1
great injury to the sage, Cyavana. He started enquiries is better than this blind old ascetic. So
please do accept
asking his subjects one by one about this. But everybody one of us as your husband". Sukanya did not relish
replied in the negative. He bribed, he threatened. The this talk and threatening them that if they did not with-
result was the same. Then one day while the King and draw stopping such blabbering she would curse them
his courtiers were sitting
despondent Sukanya approach- to ashes. The Asvimdevas were a bit surprised and also
ed her father and confessed what she had done. She frightened at the attitude of Sukanya. "Oh, Princess,
said : "While I was playing with my friends in the we are immensely pleased at your sense of righteousness
tapovana I saw this huge shrub-heap and two points and chastity and you can ask of us a boon. We are
gleaming from inside. I took a pin-stick and pricked physicians of the devas and can give your husband his
them both and on drawing it out I found it wet also. sight and can also make him young and
virile. But there
But I left the matter there and never made any is a condition As soon as your husband be-
for this.
enquiries thereafter". Saryati now knew the cause of this comes young and handsome we will also become like
national disaster and so immediately rushed to the sage him and then you can select one among us. Are you
for forgiveness. Prostrating before the rsi the King pleaded willing? If so we will make your husband charming and
"Oh, best of rsis, forgive us for this injury done unknow- handsome at this instant.
ingly. My daughter who is only an innocent child did Sukanya was well pleased with this offer but the condi-
this playfully while she was
playing in this garden with tion placed did not satisfy her. So she ran to the asrama
her friends. She never knew what she pricked for a fun and told her husband thus "Lord, I met the ASvim- :
were your eyes. Oh, the best of sage, thou art rich in devas on my way from the river after my bath and
forgiveness and so please do condone this mischief and enamoured of my beauty they have made this offer. We
bless us." Cyavana replied that he would forgive if he will make your husband young and beautiful giving him
gave Sukanya in marriage to him. Saryati was depressed. back his eyesight and then we will change ourselves to
How could he give his only and beautiful daughter to resemble him. You have then to select one of us as your
this aged senile ugly and blind rsi ? While the King was husband. I am not able to understand their cunning and
thus pondering over this, Sukanya herself came to him so I have come to you to get from you the answer for
and said, "Oh, dear father, please do not worry on their question. I am anxious to see you young and hand-
my account. I shall go as his wife. If he is satisfied some with your eyesight regained. I shall do as you
the nation would be saved from a calamity and I am direct."
prepared to sacrifice my happiness for the sake of the Cyavana said : "There is
nothing in this for great think-
country. I will be only too glad to do so." With suppress- ing. You go and them that you would do as they
tell
ed unwillingness the King gave his daughter in marri- wish and bring them down here. On hearing this Sukanya
age to Cyavana. went to the Asvinlkumaras and took them to the asrama.
Sukanya after her marriage engaged herself fully in the They asked Cyavana to take a dip in the lake nearby
service of looking after the welfare of her husband. She and as he entered the lake the Asvimdevas also entered
gave her husband healthy and tasty fruits and vegeta- it and took a dip in its waters
along with Cyavana. Lo !
bles, bathed him daily in hot water, placed before him As they rose from the waters all the three became young
all the materials for his
puja and when the time came and handsome looking alike. The AsVinldevas then
for his meals gave him his food
sitting by his side. After requested Sukanya to select one among them. Sukanya
the meals she gave him tambula and only after putting was in a fix and she prayed to her goddess to give her
him on a bed would she go to attend to her own affairs. power to identify her husband. She was blessed with
Alter finishing her meals she would come again to her that power and she selected Cyavana from the lot at
husband and sit by his side massaging him. In the even- which the Asvimdevas were also pleased. (Seventh
ing she would make ready all the things required for the Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
puja. and after the puja feed him with nourishing food. 4) Cyavana's gratitude. Cyavana who got back his eye-
Whatever remained after his feed would be taken by her. sight and youth asked the Asvinlkumaras what boon
At night she would be at the foot of her husband and they wanted. They then told him thus are the : "We
take a nap. In the morning she would attend to all the physicians of the devas. Devendra has unnecessarily put
details of the ablutions of her husband. Thus Sukanya a ban on our drinking Soma (juice extracted from the
lived true to her husband always anxious to please him. creeper Soma) When Brahma performed a yaga at
.
Then one day the Asvinlkumaras saw her going to the Mahameru thisleader of the devas did not allow us to
asrama after her bath. They were very much attracted take a soma drink. If you are capable of doing it you
by the stunning beauty of the maiden that they approach- should get us the right to take this celestial drink."
ed her and asked "Oh, beautiful maiden, who are you?
:
Cyavana promised to do that.
We are Asvinlkumaras. You seem to be alone. How did Before long, King Saryati and his wife came to the
you happen to come to this place ? You are one who asrama to enquire about the welfare of their daughter.
should always move about with friends and courtiers To their great amazement they found a young and hand-
and what is the reason for your living like this ?" some ascetic at the asrama and were a bit suspicious of
Sukanya replied, "Revered Devas, I am the daughter of the character of their daughter. But soon all doubts were
Saryati and wife of Cyavana. Forced by certain circum- cleared and they were immensely pleased. Cyavana then
ASVINlKUMARA(S) (ASVINlDEVAS) 71 ATALA
told the King the request of the ASvinldevas and Saryati about it. It was Indra who taught this to Dadhyanc
also promised his help on this matter. and while teaching him he had threatened that if he
On their return to their palace Saryati decided to per- gave away that secret to anybody else his head would
form a big yaga to which all the devas were also invited. be cut off. ASvinidevas found a way to tide over this
Cyavana officiated as priest. The AS vimdevas were also difficulty. They head and fixed the
at first cut off his
present quite to the dislike of Indra. The time came for head of a horse on him. It was with the head of a
distributing soma, and when Cyavana called the Asvinl- horse that Dadhyanc taught them Madhuvidya and
kumaras to take their share Indra objected saying that as soon as the teaching was over his horse-head was
since they were physicians of the devas they could not cut off and the real head placed in its place. (Rk 22,
be given that drink. Cyavana argued against that and Sukta 116, Rgveda).
after a great verbal combat Cyavana succeeded in (13) The vehicle of the ASvinldevrs is a donkey.
making the Asvinlkumaras take the drink. For more Once this donkey in the disguise of a wolf went and
details look under 'Cyavana'. (Seventh Skandha, Devi stayed with RjraSva, son of the Rajarsi Vrsagir. Rjra-
Bhagavata) . sVa gave the wolf to eat hundred goats belonging 10
5) Other information regarding ASvinikumaras. the people of the place. Vrsagir got angry at this act
(1) How they tested Upamanyu. This story is given of his son and cursed him. The son became blind and
under the word Apodadhaumya. he got back his eyesight by pleasing the AsVinldevas
(2) Birth of Nakulaand Sahadeva. KuntI, wife ofPandu, by prayer and offerings. (Rk 16, Sukta 115, Rg-
had obtained from Sage Durvasas five sacred mantras, veda) .
the chanting of each of which would give her a child. (14) Once Surya decided to give his daughter in
Even before her marriage Kunti tested the power of the marriage owner of the horse which would win a
to the
mantras by chanting one of them. Surya appeared and horse-race which Surya would conduct. In the race the
she had to take a son from him who became the famous horse of the Asvin r devas won and they thus married
Karna later. By chanting the second, third and fourth Surya's daughter. (Rk 17, Sukta 117, Rgveda).
meditating on Yama, Vayu and Indra, KuntI got (15) The AsVinikumaras killed an asura of name
Dharmaputra, Bhlma and Arjuna.
respectively the sons Visvak and destroyed his dynasty also. (Rk 16, Sukta
The fifth mantra she gave to Madri and she meditated 117, Rgveda).
on the AsVinldevas and got Nakula and Sahadeva. ASVINlKUMARATlRTHA. It is believed that the
(3) The As vinidevas were present for the marriage of physical beauty of man would be increased if he bath-
Pancali. (Sloka 6, Chapter 186, Adi Parva, M.B.). es in this lake- (Sloka 17, Chapter 83, Vana Parva,
During the burning of the forest Khandava the AS vini- M.B.) .
devas stood on the side of Arjuna. ASVINlSUTA. A son born to Surya of the wife of
(4) King Yuvanasva became pregnant and bore a child. Sutapas. There is this story about it in Brahmavai-
It was the AS.inldevas who took the child out
by surgery. varta Purana. Once when the wife of Sutapas was on
The boy became known as Mandhata later. (Sloka 3, a pilgrimage Surya happened to see her. The beautiful
Chapter 62, Drona Parva, M.B.). and venerable lady refused to accede to the desire of
(5) During the Mahabharata battle the AsVinidevas Surya and so the latter used force and took her. They
handed over some Parsadas to the god, Skanda. (Sloka had a son who was named AsVinlsuta. On her return
38, Chapter 43, Salya 'Parva, M.B.). after the pilgrimage with her son she explained all that
(6) The Asvinldevas like very much oblations of Ghee. happened and the sage sent both of them out. Surya
The others who like it are Brhaspati, Pusan, Bhaga and taught his son AsVinisuta astrology and made him a
Pavaka. (Sloka 7, Chapter 65, AnuSasana Parva, M.B.). master in that science. Knowing that, Sutapas cursed
(7) The month of AsVina (October-November) is the him and said he would turn to be one very diseased.
month of ASvimkumaras and if a man gives ghee to the Later the sage amended his curse and added that he
Brahmins freely in that month he will acquire more would be free from disease if he worshipped the sun.
physical beauty. (Sloka 10, Chapter 65, Anusasana ASVINlTlRTHA. Promises bodily splendour if one
Parva, M.B.) . takes a bath in this lake. (Sloka 21, Chapter 25,
(8) One who offers Ghee
oblation to the fire for
as AnuSasana Parva, M.B.) .
twelve months in succession will reach the country of ATALA. This is one of the seven sections of Patala. The
the Asvimkumaras. (Sloka 95, Chapter 107, AnuSasana seven sections are Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Talatala,
:
mentary on the 93rd Sukta of the Rgveda states that There reigns Bala, the son of Maya who is the famous
there is a belief that the AsVins and Candrasuryas (the but haughty magician. He has cieated 96 Mayas who
Sun and Moon) are one and the same. are capable of granting all kinds of desires. Even now
(10) Dirghasravas son of Dlrghatamas once prayed to certain persons who are interested in the practice of
the AsVimdevas to get rains and it is said that they gave Black magic, learn some of these 96 arts and practise
a downpour of sweet water. (Rgveda, Sukta 112, Rk them. When this mighty fellow opens his mouth for
11).
(11) Once a sage named Gotama was lost in a desert yawning, three groups of women known as PumScalls,
and craved bitterly for drinking water. He prayed to the Svairinis and KaminTs emerge from his mouth. He has
ASvinidevas for water and they dug a well itself in the with him a rasayana called hataka with which he can
eaisly entice and seduce all who enter Atala and to
desert and quenched the thirst of the sage. (Rk 9, Sukta
16, Rgveda). strengthen them for satisfying his lust. After enticing
(12) The sage Dadhyanc taught the Asvinldevas the them with it, he enjoys uncontrolled pleasure with
technique, Madhuvidya. There is an interesting story them, showering on them his amorous glances, bewitch-
ATAVlSlKHARA 72 ATIBALA I
Mantras
ing smiles and embraces. (Devi Bhagavata, Asjama Uttt
19. SivaSivabhih Prosperity in general (Saubhagya-
Skandha) .
ATHARVA(M). Among the Vedas, this has the fourth pari patu
place. It comprises different kinds
of incantations of 21. Muncavitva Warding off death (Mrtyu-
occult powers for the destruction of enemies. Atharvan nivarana).
the son of Vasistha was the author of this Veda. In When these mantras are chanted several oblations are
Chapter 6 of the third section of Visnu Purana the made to the sacrificial
fire. Substances like Camata, ghee,
following reference is made to Atharvaveda: "Sumantu rice, milk are thrown into the fire as offerings. (Agni
Maharsi who was of infinite glory, first taught this Purana, Chapter 262).
Atharvaveda to his disciple Kabandha. (Sumantu ATHARVA I. This muni is referred to in Mahabharata,
Maharsi was the son of Jaimini, who was the disciple Udyoga Parva, Chapter 43. Verse 50, as a professional
of Vedavyasa ) Kabandha divided Atharvaveda into
. chanter of Chandaveda. Once under the curse of Bhrgu
two parts and communicated them to two Maharsis Maharsi, Agni hid himself under the sea. (See "AGNI').
named DevadarSa and Pathya. DevadarsVs disciples At that time, it was Atharva who, at the suggestion of
were: Medha, Brahmabali, Sautkayani and Pippalada. the Devas, went under the water and discovered Agni.
Pathya had three disciples named Jabali, Kumudadi (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 222, Verse 8).
and Saunaka. They also made Atharvaveda compila- Atharva recovered Agni, and re-created the worlds
tions. Saunaka divided his compilation into two and which were lying dormant owing to the absence of fire.
gave one part to Babhru and the other to Saindhava. (M.B.,Vana Parva, Chapter 222, Verse 19).
Munjikesa learnt it from Saindhava and divided the Atharva was born from Brahma's face. His wife was
compilation first into two and later into three parts. Santi, the daughter of Kardama. Citti was another
The five divisions of the Atharvaveda Naksatrakalpa, name for Santi. But there are some Puranas which re-
Vedakalpa, Samhitakalpa, Angirasakalpa and Santi- fer to Citti as another wife of Atharva. Also there are ;
kalpa, were made by Mufijikes'a. Naksatrakalpa con- Puranas which say that Atharva was Aiigiras himself.
tains Brahma's works Samhitakalpa contains Mantra
: ATHARVA II. This name has been used as a synonym
Vidhi Angirasakalpa contains abhicara and Santikalpa
;
of Siva. (M.B., AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 17, Verse
contains taming of horses, elephants etc. 91).
The mantras (incantations) in Atharvaveda and their ATHARVA III. In Rgveda another Atharva maybe
uses are given below : seen. It is that he was the author of the Atharva-
said
Mantras Uses veda. After learning Brahmavidya from Brahma, it
1. Suparnastava Getting rid of serpents and snake- was this Atharva. who first brought fire to the earth
poison (Sarpa-badha-nivaranam ) from heaven. Atharva had two wives named Santi and
2. Indrenadatta Fulfilment of all desires (Sarva- Citti. This Atharva was the same person as Atharvana,
7. Kamojevaji Enjoyment of women (Stri- and Tumburu. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Verse
saubhagyam) .
51).
8. Tubhyamevaja- Equal to thousand sacrifices ATIBALA. A mantra. Visvamitra
took the boys who
vima (Ayuta-homa-tulyam). Rama and Laksmana taught them two
to the forest
9. Agnegobhinna Strengthening of the intellect mantras, Bala and Atibala, to liberate them from
(Buddhi-vrddhi). hunger and thirst. Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda,
10. Dhruvarhdhru- Attainment of posts of honour Sarga 22)
vena (Sthana-labha) ATIBALA I. The Maharsi Atibala was the cause of the
1 1 .
Alaktajiva- Profit from agriculture (Krsi- death of Sri Rama and Laksmana.
labha). After the war with Ravana, Sri Rama returned to Ayo-
12. Ahan te bhagna Prosperity in general. dhya with his retinue and began his reign. After re-
13. Ye me paSa Freedomfrom imprisonment nouncing Sita while Sri Rama was living in the palace
(bandhana-vimukti) . with Laksmana, Satrughna and their families, one day
14. Sapatvaha Destruction of enemies (Satru- Brahma summoned Yama and said "Sri Rama is the :
of you will get Virakti and Mukti." ATILOMA. An Asura who was killed by Sri Krsna.
After saying this, Mahavisnu made the two asuras (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 38).
stand
^on
each of his thighs and killed them with his ATIMANYU. He was one of the ten sons of Manu.
Sudarsana Cakra. They were born again as Khara and ATIRATHA. There was a King named Matinara in
Atikaya. (Kamba Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda). PuruvarhSa. (See PORUVAMA). Four sons were born
2) Birth. There is a story about the birth of Atikaya to him:Tamsu, Mahan, Atiratha and Druhyu. (M.B.,
in the Yuddha Kanda of Kamba Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verse 14).
Ramayana After :
the ten brilliant sons of Nadvala. (Visnu Purana, Part came the Asura King. Then there was a battle between
Indra and Prahlada. After six years' war, Prahlada with-
I, Chapter 13).
ATISAN.DA. After his death Balabhadra Rama went drew, defeated. Later Mahabali, the son of Virocana
to Patafa in the guis^ of Ananta. All the serpents wor- (grandson of Piahlada) became emperor of Asuras. War
shipped him. Among them
was a serpent named Ati- broke out again between Mahabali and Indra. In this
sanda. (M.B., Mausala Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 16). war, Mahavisnu helped Indra. The Asuras were utterly
ATl NGA. Vindhya Presented two parsadas to Skanda
'-.
defeated. They sought refuge with Sukra, the Asura guru.
on the battlefield. They were AtiSrnga and Ucchrriga. Sukra promised to help them. He set out to the Hima-
(M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verses 49, 50). layas to receive a powerful mantra from Siva. The
ATISTHIRA. Mah'meru presented two Parsadas nam- Asuras kept waiting for Sukra's return.
ed Atisthira and Sthira to Skanda on the battlefield. At this stage, Mahavisnu who was the protector of Indra,
(M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 45, yerse 48)
. came to Sukra's aSrama and killed Sukra's mother,
ATITHI (guest). In ancient Bharata Atithi-satkara Kavyamata. Seeing this impudence of Mahavisnu, Bhrgu
was considered as a yajfla. In Maharsi was enraged and cursed him that he should be
(hospitality to a guest)
Manusmrti, Chapter 100, Verse 3, it is said that even if born many times in human wombs. It is on account of
one lives on the scattered grains in the fields after har- this that Mahavisnu had to take many avataras (incar-
offered in the midst of It was in this way that Mahavisnu incarnated
vest, and even if penance
is nations).
Pancagni (five fires) unless the Brahmin who comes as Dattatreya, the son of Atri. (Devi Bhagavata, 4th
as a guest is fed, all virtuous deeds would be useless. Skandha).
remarks about It was a time when Vasistha and
Besides, Manu has made the following (2) Atri and ParaSara.
the Atithi (guest) . VisVamitra were in a state of mutual ill-will. Once King
"A new visitor at night must be treated as an Atithi. Kalmasapada was going about in the forest on a hunting
An Atithi is one who comes not daily.
occasionally, expedition. He met Sakti, the eldest son of Vasisfha in
But one who lives in your village and goes about as a the forest. The King did not respect him properly. Sakti
vagabond for a living, does not deserve to be treated as transformed Kalmasapada into a Raksasa by his curse.
an Atithi. The guest who comes either before or after The Raksasa who was also a cannibal, first swallowed
mealtime should not be sent away without being fed. Sakti himself. VisVamitra offered whatever help he
Even a VaiSya or Sudra who comes as a guest to a could, to destroy Vasistha's family. Kalmasapada ate
Brahmin's house has to be given food when the servants successively all the 100 sons of Vasistha. Vasistha, in great
are given food." sorrow and Sakti's wife, Adfsyanti lived in an aSrama.
ATITHIGVA. He was a King referred to in the Rg- AdrsyantI was pregnant at the time of Sakti's death.
veda. He had another name, "Divodasa". This King In due course she gave birth to a boy who was called
had fought several battles against Asuras with the help ParaSara and who later on became the father of Vyasa.
of Indra. It is said that once, being afraid of the Asuras, when Paras' ara grew up, he came to know that his father
he tried to hide himself under the water. (Rgveda, Sakti was eaten by the Raksasa. Enraged at this, he
Mandala 1, Anuvaka 10, Sukta 53; Rgveda, Mandala started a yajfla to annihilate the whole race of Raksasas.
1, Anuvaka 16, Sukta 112). As the yajfia gained intensity and force Atri Muni arrived
ATIVARCAS. Himavan gave Skanda two Parsadas on the there with certain other Maharsis and dissuaded Para-
battlefield. They were Ativarcas and Suvarcas. (M.B., Sara from the yajfla. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 181 ).
Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 46). (3) Atri's dispute with Vainya. Atri Maharsi and his
ATIYAMA. God Varuna gave Skanda on the battlefield wife once got ready to go for Vanavasa. At that time the
two Parsadas (attendant soldiers). One of them was poor Maharsi's wife was in great distress because they
Yama and the other was Atiyama. (M.B., Salya Parva, had no money to be distributed to their disciples and
Chapter 45, Verse 45) . children. She requested her husband to go to King
ATRI I. Vainya and to beg for some money. Accordingly the
1) The son of Brahma. Atri Maharsi was one of the Maharsi visited King Vainya at his yagaa.la (The shed
imnasaputras of Brahma. The manasaputras were : where a yaga is held) He began to flatter Vainya by say-
.
5) Important events. (1) How Mahavi$nu became Atri's son. rsi to a remedy for this. Moved by their distress,
find
Kasyapa had a son named Kasipu. He was a very mighty Atri suddenly transformed himself into the Sun and
ruler and carried on his reign in an ungodly manner. Moon. The Moon gave light to the Devas. The Sun
In a terrible battle which took place at that time between burnt up the Asuras by his intense heat. Thus the
the Devas and Asuras Kasipu was killed. Prahlada be- Devas were saved. This story was told by Vayu Bhaga-
ATRI I 75 ATRI I
vana, to Arjuna. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 156). Atri's wife. Durvasas is the embodiment of that element
(5) 'Atri and King Vrsadarbhi. In the Mahabharata we of Siva's fury.
find a story about a difference of
opinion between According to the promise, Brahma also took his birth
King Vrsadarbhi and some Maharsis. This story was as the moon from Anasuya, the wife of Atri. (For that
told by Bhlsma to Yudhisthira about the kind of
per- story, see PURURAVAS). There is a story about that
sons from whom Brahmins may accept gifts. Once the also in the Brahmanda Purana. Once when Brahma
Munis, Kasyapa, Atri, Vasistha, Bharadvaja, Gautama, was performing the task of creation, he experienced
Visvamitra, Jamadagni, and Pasusakha, with Arun- carnal passsion. Sarasvati was the offspring of that
dhati and Ganda, who were the wives of two Munis,
passion. When Brahma saw her,
he fell in love with her
travelled round the world. Their object was to go to also. This feel angry towards Kamadeva. He
made him
Brahmaloka. At that time there was drought in the pronounced a curse that Kamadeva should be burnt up
world. King Vrsadarbhi, the son of Sibi, suggested that in the fire from Siva's eye. (This is why Kamadeva was
the above-mentioned Munis should be called and
given later burnt to death by Siva) Although Kama had
.
wealth. They refused to accept it. Vrsadarbhi became retreated from Brahma his passion had not been sup-
angry. He performed Homa in Ahavanlyagni and from pressed. Brahma transferred his passion to Atri
Maharsi.
the agnikurida, the Raksasi Yatudham The Maharsi gave it to Anasuya, his wife. Since she
(Krtya) arose.
Vrsadarbhi sent Yatudham to destroy Atri and all was unable to bear such a violent passion, she gave it
other Munis. As Yatudham was guarding a lotus pond back to her husband. That passion emerged from Atri's
in the forest, the munis led by Atri
happened to come eye in the form of the Moon. This is why lovers experi-
that way. The Maharsis were able to recognize ence strong passion for each other at the time of the
Yatudham. They beat her with their tridandu (Trident rising of the moon. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapters
or a kind of magic wand) and reduced her to ashes.
39-43) .
putra was retold by Atri. A son named Dattatreya a hole here. Water will come out of it in a torrent."
was born to Atri, the son of Brahma. Dattatreya be- Pure water began to flow from the place pointed out
came King. Nimi was his son. Nimi's son died after by Ganga Devi. Anasuya begged Ganga Devi to stay
one thousand years. Nimi who was in there for a month. Ganga Devi agreed to do so on con-
deep grief at the
death of his son, ordained a Sraddha in memory of his dition that Anasuya would transfer her Tapi -kti to
son. On that occasion Atri Maharsi came there and her for one month.
explained to Nimi the importance of Sraddha. (M.B., Atri was pleased by drinking the water. He asked Ana-
Anusasana Parva, Chapter 91, Verses 20-44).
suya where she got such nice fresh water. She explain-
(7) How Brahma, Visnu and MaheSvara (Siva) were born ed to him all matters. Atri expressed his desire to see
as sons of Atri. There is no other woman in the Puranas Ganga Devi. She appeared before him at once. Ana-
who surpasses Silavati in her fidelity to her husband. In suya prayed to her that Ganga should continue to exist
order to enable Ugrasravas, her husband, to in the world always. Ganga Devi answered that she
satisfy his
passion, she once carried him on her own shoulders to would do so if Anasuya was prepared to give her the
a prostitute's house. On the
way, Mandavya Muni fruit of one year's Tapasiakti and of devoted service to
pronounced a curse that UgraSravas should die before her husband. Anasuya agreed to that condition. Sud-
sunrise. The grief-stricken At
Silavati pronounced a denly Siva appeared there in the shape of a Linga.
counter-curse that the sun should not rise on the next the request of Atri and Anasuya Siva took his seat
day. As the sun failed to rise, the Trimurtis (Brahma, there permanently assuming the name of "AtriSvara".
Visnu and Siva), accompanied by Anasuya, Atri's wife,
(Siva Purana).
went to Silavati. Anasuya persuaded Silavati to with- Besides Dattatreya, Durvasas
(9) Other Details. 1.
draw her curse. The Trimurtis who were and Candra. Atri had another son, Praclnabarhis.
happy at the
success of their mission (of
bringing about the Sunrise) (M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter 208, Verse 6).
asked Anasuya to demand any boon she wanted. Ana- 2. Many Pavakas had been born in Atri VarhS.i. (M.B.,
suya expressed her wish that the Trimurtis (Brahma, Vana Parva, Chapter 222, Verses 27-29).
Visnu and Siva) should be born as her sons and
they 3. When the Kaurava-Pandava war was raging with
agreed.
under the name of Dattatreya, was born great fury, many Maharsis went to Drona and advised
Mahavisnu, him to stop the battle. Atri Maharsi was one of them.
as the son ofAnasuya. Siva was born to her under the
name of Durvasas. There is a story about it in the Brah- (M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter 190, Verse 35).
manda Parana. Once Siva got angry with the Devas.
4.On another occasion, a King named Soma performed
They began to flee for life. But Brahma alone did not a Rajasuya (Royal sacrifice) Atri Maharsi was the
.
run away. Siva who became more furious at this, chief priest at this yaga. (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter
pinched off one of the heads of Brahma. Still he was 43, Verse 47).
not pacified. Parvatl who was 5. Atri was also among the Maharsis who had gone to
alarmed, approached Siva
and begged him to suppress his
^ anger. At her request, witness ParaSurama's tapas. (Brahmanda Purana, Chap-
Siva's fury was transferred and
deposited in Anasuya, ter 64) .
ATRI II 76 AURVA I
6. Rgveda, 5th Mandala was composed byAtri. (Rgveda king forcibly dug out from the house of a Bhrgu the
S irhhita, Preface) . wealth he had safely buried and from that day onwards
7. Once the Asuras the Ksatriyas and the Bhargavas became enemies. The
put Atri Maharsi into the Sata-
d\'ara yantra (a machine of torture with a hundred Bhrgus were hunted down by the Ksatriya kings and the
holes). Rgveda, 1st Mandala, 16th Anuvaka, Sukta Bhargavas frightened by this move left their abode and
51). went and hid in Caves in mountains far away. Among
8. Once the Asuras tried to burn Atri alive. (Rgveda, those who thus fled was Arusi, wife of Cyavana. Arusi
1st Mandala, 16th Anuvaka, Sukta 112). was pregnant at that time and she hid her 'Garbha' in
9. The Asuras at another time made Atri lie down her thighs while ileeing. A brahmin woman who saw
in a machine with a large number of holes and tried this went and informed the Ksatt ivas and they imme-
to burn him alive in it. At that time he prayed to the diately went and caught hold of her. Then the thigh
Asvins and they liberated him. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, broke and a boy came out of it. Because he was born
17th Anuvaka, Sukta 116). from the thighs the boy was named Aurva. (Oru =
10. Atri was among the Maharsis who visited Sri Thigh and so, born of a thigh). (Chapter 179, Adi
Rama, on his return to Ayodhya after the war with Parva, M.B.) .
Ravana. (Uttara Ramayana). 3) The effulgence of Aurvz. Aurva was born with fiery
1 1 From the navel lotus of Visnu Brahma was born,
. radiance and the sudden effulgence made the Ksatriya
Atri from Brahma, Soma from Atri, and Pururavas from Kings blind. Frightened they craved for pardon and
Soma were born. (Agni Purana, Chapter 12). praised him. They got back their eyesight then.
12. Atri begot by Anasuya, Soma, Durvasas and Datta- 4) Aurva and Badavagni. Aurva bore a deep grudge
treyayogl. (Agni Purana, Chapter 20). against the Ksatriyas who had massacred his fore-
ATRI II. In the Puranas another Atri, the son of Sukra- fathers. Aurva started doing rigorous penance and by
carya, is also seen (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 65, the force of his austerities the world started to burn. At
Verse 27). that stage the Pitrs appeared before him and persuaded
ATRI III. The term
Atri has been used as an epithet him to withdraw from his penance. Aurva then told
of Siva. (M.B., AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 17, Verse them was lying in the thigh-womb
thus; ''Pitrs, while I
38). of mymother I heard hideous groans from outside and
AU. This word means Mahesvara (Siva). (Agni Purana, they were of our mothers when they saw the heads of
Chapter 348) . our fathers being cutoff by the swords of the Ksatriyas.
AUDAKA. This is the place where Narakasura with his Even from the womb itself I nurtured a fierce hatred
ten thousand girls was once imprisoned. It is a plateau towards the Ksatriyas. No helping hand was raised
on the top of Maniparvata. Because water was in before the pitiable wails of our mothers".
plenty there the place was called 'Audaka'. An asura The Pitrs were astounded at the firmness of the vow of
named Nuru was the keeper of this plateau. (Sabha Aurva and horrified at the thought of what would
Parva, M.B.). happen if the penance was continued. They pleaded
AUDDALAKA. A holy place of ancient India. The again to cease his austerities and then submitting to
place got this name because the sage Uddalaka lived their request Aurva withdrew the fire of his penance
there. It is believed that if one bathes in this holy place and forced it down into the sea. It is now believed
one will be absolved of all his sins. that this fire taking the shape of a horse-head is still
AUDUMBARA. The King of the state of Udumbara. living underneath the sea vomiting heat at all times.
This king once paid respects to emperor Yudhistfiira This fire is called Badavagni. More about this can be
and gave him several presents and gifts. (Sloka 12, had under the head Badavagni. (Chapter 180, Adi
Chapter 53, Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
Parva, M.B.).
AUKTHYA. A glorifying prayer in Samaveda. (Sloka 5) Aurva and the birth of Sagira. Ayodhya was once
36, Chapter 134, Vana Parva, M.B.). ruled by a celebrated King of Iksvaku dynasty named
AURASlKA. A country of ancient India. Sri Krsna Subahu. He had as his wife Yadavl a good natured and
conquered this land. (Sloka 16, Chapter 11, Drona well behaved woman who was a gem among queens.
Parva, M.B.). One day Talajamgha a King of the Hehaya line of
AURVA I. (Urva, Uruja). A fierce saint of the line rulers who was then the King of Mahismatl defeated
of Bhrgu Maharsi. Subahu in a battle. Yadavl was then pregnant. Jealous
1) Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu, Brahma, co-wives poisoned her Yadivl did not die but the
;
before. When they knew of Subahu's death they were AUSANAS (Kapalamocana). A holy place on the
plunged in sorrow but were glad to know a son of banks of the river, Sarasvatl. Brahma, the devas and
Subahu, Sagara, had grown up to be a successor to many maharsis lived here once. (Chapter 83, Vana
Subahu. When Garuda made Aurva acquainted with Parva) .
the pitiable tale of his sister Aurva decreed that Sumati This place is called Kapalamocana also. There is a
should marry a Ksatriya instead of a brahmin and thus story behind the place getting this name-
tide over the curse. He then asked Sagara to marry At the forest of Dandaka Sri Rama killed many demons.
Sumati and blessed them saying that Sagara would one The force of the arrows took the skulls of the demons
day become an emperor and perform an Asvamedha to far off places in the forest. One of the skulls thus
yaga. Aurva then sent Sagara along with the people sent far fell on theof a sage named Mahodara
feet
to Ayodhya where Sagara after defeating all his enemies who was then going that way. The skull went deep
became the emperor of Bharatavarsa. (Brahmanda into his foot and not only did it wound his foot
Purana, Chapters 18-21 ). but it stuck to his foot so hard that it could not
7) Sagara s sons and how Aurva helped in getting them. be drawn out also. With his foot in pains the sage
Sagara ruled the land for three thousand years. He had visited all the holy places but with no relief to his pain.
besides Sumati another wife, Kesini. Both of them bore At last Mahodara came to AuSanasa and to his surprise
no sons for Sagara. Dejected he entrusted the adminis- the skull came off from his foot healing his wound. He
tration of the state with his ministers and left for the remained there some time and obtained many divine
for
asrama of Aurva. Aurva blessed them and prophesied attainments. From then onwards the place was called
that Kesini would deliver a son to continue the dynasty 'Kapalamocana'. After this incident Brahma, Visvamitra,
and that Sumati would deliver sixty thousand sons of Balabhadiarama and many such divine persons visited
no great use at all. Sagara and his wives, returned to the place. (Chapter 39, Salya Parva, M.B.)
the palace and very soon both his wives became preg- AUSlJA I. A King of ancient India. He equalled
nant. In due time Kesini delivered a son who was Indra. (Sloka 226, Chapter 1, Adi Parva, M.B.).
named Asamanjas. But Sumati gave birth to a lump of AUSlJA II. An ancient sage. There is a reference to this
flesh. Greatly
pained the King was about to throw it sage who is the son of Angiras in Rgveda. This rsi was
away when Aurva appeared there and stopped him from a brilliant of the royal council of Dharma-
member
doing that. He directed him to cut the piece of flesh putra. (Chapter 208,Sand Parva, M.B.) .
into sixty thousand pieces and put one piece each in a AUSlNARA (AUSINARI). Sibi, son of the King of
jar of ghee. Every year one prince would be born from Usinara. See under Sibi.
one of them. Thus Sumati got sixty thousand sons. AUSlNARl (USINARA). A Sudra girl born in the
(Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 92). country of Usinara. Gautama Muni got his sons
8) Teaching of Aurva. In the evening of his life Sagara Kaksivan and others of this girl. (Sloka 5, Chapter 21,
went and stayed in the asrama of Aurva. Aurva gave Sabha Parva, M.B.).
him instructions on many a divine subject. He taught AUSI^lKA(M). An ancient place in India. The King
him about the importance of the four aSramas, the of this country paid respects to Dharmaputra offering
rituals to be practised by the different castes of Brah- him several gifts. (Sloka 17, Chapter 51, Sabha Parva,
mana, Ksatriya, Vaisya and Sddra and many such M.B.).
other things. Finally Aurva gave Sagara Brahmajnana. AUTATHYA. Son of Utathya (See under Utathya) .
(Chapter 8, Ariisam 3, Visnu Purana). AUVVAYAR. A celebrated Tamil poetess. She was born
9) Aurvdsrami. All the Bhargava rsis together once in a Paraya (lowest of the Hindu castes) family. Her
stayed in the asrama of Aurva. Parasurama visited the mother left her as soon as she was delivered and a
aSrama one day during that time and paid respects to low caste Sudra brought her up. She lived for 240 years
Bhrgu, Khyati, wife of Bhrgu, Cyavana, son of Bhrgu before she left on a long journey never to return. She
and Aurva, son of Cyavana. (Brahmanda Purana, wrote several books in Tamil. The important ones are
Chaptre 63). Atticuti, Kontaiventa, Mutturai, Natvali, Katvali
AURVA II. A brahmin living in the country of Malava. slukka, Nannutkova, Nantanikova, Aruntamilmala,
This brahmin got a daughter named Samika by his wife Darsanappattu, and Jnanakurul. She has made a dictio-
Sumedha. She was married very early to Mandara, son nary in verses also.
of Dhaumyaka and disciple of Saunaka. After some AVABHRTHAM. The bath taken at the end of a sacri-
days when Mandara found his wife fully grown he went fice.
to Aurva to bring his wife home. Aurva sent them both "Then all the Ksatriya Kings approached Dharma-
to the house of Mandara with his blessings. On their taniija (Dharmaputra) who had completed successfully,
way home they met the Maharsi Bhusundi and burst under the protection of the Mighty Lord of the bow,
into laughter at his sight. The sage cursed them and the cudgel and the wheel, the great sacrifice of the Raja-
AVAClNA 78 AVATARA
suya (imperial inauguration) and taken the avabhrta- The family of the Haihayas was split into five. They
snana (the bath at the end of the sacrifice) ." were the Bhojas, the Avanti family, the Vltihotra fami-
(Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter45, Stanzas 40, 41) .
ly, the Svayarhjfita family and the Saundikeya family.
AVAClNA. The son born to Jayatsena, a King of the (Agm Purana, Chapter 275)
Piiru dynasty, by his wife Susrava the princess of AVARODHA. A King of the family ofBharata.
Vidarhha. To him was born Ariha of Maryada the AVASANAM. An ancient Bath m Bharata. One could
princess of Vidarbha. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 95, attain the merits of Sahasragodana (giving a thousand
Stanzas 17 and 18). cows as alms) by bathing in this holy bath. (M.B.,
AVADHtfTESVARA. An incarnation of Siva. Once Vana Parva, Chapter 82, Stanza 128).
Indra and Brhaspati went to Kailasa to do homage to AVATARA. (Incarnation). The incarnations of Maha-
Siva who clad in air only hindered their way. Indra visnu:
requested that person to get out of the way. He request- 1
) General information. God takes three kinds of incar-
ed repeatedly several times but in vain. Indra who got nations such as avatara, aveSa and ariisa. That which
angry took his weapon ofVajra. But Siva froze it. More- has full power is avatara that which has power only
;
over fire emanated from his eye on the forehead. At the for the time being is avesa and partial incarnation in
request of Bi'haspati Siva turned the fire from his eye amSavatara. * The incarnations of Visnu are count-
towards Lavana Samudra (the sea of Salt). Jalandhara less. Hermits, Manus, Devas (gods) and sons of Manus
who was killed by Siva had his origin in this fire. are incarnations in part (arhsavataras) of Visnu. Com-
(Siva Purana) .
plete avataras are ten in numbers of which Balabhadra
AVAGAHA. A
warrior of the Vrsni dynasty. (Maha- Rama is not considered as an avatara by some. In-
bharata, Drona Parva, Chapter 1 1, Stanza 27) .
stead of him they place Buddha.
AVAISAKHA.' (See Dhanasarma). b) Reason for the incarnations. Mahavisnu has taken so
AVAKlR^A(M) A holy place on the bank of the river
.
many incarnations in the world. In the Sri Mahadevi
Sarasvatl. (M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 41). Bhagavata a story occurs to the effect that Mahavisnu
AVANTI. A country called Malava in ancient was forced to take so large a number of incarnations
India. The famous Ujjayini was the capital of Avanti. due to the curse of the great hermit Bhrgu. The story
This city is situated on the bank of Sipra. The renown- is as follows KaSyapa had a son named Kasipu. He
:
ed poets such as Kalidasa and others, lived in this was daring and brave and ruled the country as an
city. This is one of the seven cities considered to be enemy of the Gods. There arose a severe battle between
capable of giving Moksa (heavenly bliss). (M.B., the gods and the Asuras. Kasipu was killed in that
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 43). battle. After Kasipu his son Prahlada became King.
AVANTI VAMSA. (The Dynasty of Avanti). The He too was an enemy of the Gods. So there was a
dynasty of Avanti Kings had its origin in the Yadu battle between Indra and Prahlada. The battle conti-
dynasty. Candra was born to Atri the son of Brahma. nued a hundred years. At last Prahlada was defeat-
for
Budha was born to Candra, Pururavas to Budha, Ayus ed. He very sorry at the defeat. So he anointed
felt
to Pururavas, Nahusa to Ayus, Yayati to Nahusa and Bali, son of Virocana, as King and leaving the Kingdom
Yadu to Yayati. Yadu had five sons, the eldest of whom he went to the Gandhamadana and began to do
was known by the name Sahasrajit. The rest of them penance. The fight continued between Bali and Indra.
were known as Nllanjika, Raghu, Krosfu and Satajit. In this fight Mahavisnu helped Indra. The Asuras were
Sahasrajit had three sons called Satajit, Haihaya and completely destroyed. The defeated Asuras went to
Renuhaya. Dharmanetra was born to Haihaya, Sahana their teacher Sukra who promised to protect them by
to Dharmanetra, Mahiman to Sahana, Bhadrasena to spells and incantations and herbs. The Gods knew
Mahiman, Durgama to Bhadrasena and Kanaka to that Sukra had undertaken to protect the asuras.
Durgama. From Kanaka were born the four sons Krta- Leaving the asuras behind, Sukra went to Kailasa to
vlrya, Krtagni, Karaviraand Krtaujas. Arjuna(Kartta- get more power of spells and incantations from Siva.
vlryarjuna) was born as the son of Krtavlrya. Before going to Kailasa Sukra had asked the Asuras
Arjuna renowned as Karttavirya became the supreme to wait for him with faith. After this the Asuras sent
lord of the earth comprising the Saptadvipa (Seven Prahlada to the Gods for a truce. Prahlada, though an
Islands) by the merits of his penance. He got invinci- Asura was in good favour with the Gods. He reached
bility and thousand hands in battles, as boons. He the court of Indra and said, "Gods, we have no desire
performed ten thousand sacrifices all in conformity at all for war. We
have decided to spend the remain-
with the rules and regulations. To escape from loss of ing period in penance wearing barks of trees and tufts
wealth one had only to remember his name. It was of hair. How wicked a deed is battle and how delight-
ordered that Kings other than Karttavirya, however ful it is to become a devotee of God So hereafter you
!
great the extent of their might and prowess, and the will not be troubled by us. Likewise I hope you will
number of sacrifices, offering of alms and penance done not do us innocent people any harm."
be, would not stand on a par with him. The gods believed Prahlada. The Asuras, in the guise
Karttavirya had a hundred sons, of whom the most of hermits waited for Sukra in the hermitage of Kas-
famous were Surasena, Sura, Dhrsta, Krsna, and Jaya- yapa. Sukra reached Kailasa and bowed before Siva and
dhvaja. Jayadhvaja the most renowned of these five requested that he might be given the power of defeat-
ruled in Avanti as King. Talajarigha who had several ing the Gods by some means quite unknown to Brhas-
sons, was born from Jayadhvaja. pati the teacher of the devas (Gods). Siva was in
*See Amsavatara.
AVATARA 79 AVATARA
trouble. He could refuse neither Sukra nor the Gods. ing this the Kind Manu took the fish in his hand and
At lasthe told hermit Sukra that to come by such a put it in an earthenware pot and brought it up. In a
spell he had to stand head downwards, inhaling smoke few days the fish began to grow. When the pot became
for a thousand years. Siva said so thinking that when insufficient the King put it in a larger pot. When that
the dreadful nature of the feat was considered, Sukra also became too small, the King put the fish in a pond.
might desist from the attempt. But Sukra began that When the pond could not hold the fish any longer the
penance instantly. King put it in the Ganges at its request. After a few days
The Gods understood everything. The deceit of the the Ganges also became too small for the fish. Finally
Asuras, the crookedness of Sukra all were now clear to the fish told the King: "Oh, King, within seven days
them.. They trembled with fear and began to consult there will be a great flood in the world. You should
how to get over the difficult situation. Finally they make a boat and take the seven hermit-sages with you
decided to go to war with the Asuras. The gods did in the boat and escape. I will help you."
accordingly. The Asuras were in trouble. They were Hearing this he got an immensely large boat ready and
not strong enough to face the Gods. So they all went obeyed the instructions of the fish. Within seven days
to Kavyamata, the mother of Sukra. The devas (gods) rain started in torrents. Everything in the world, the
with Mahavisnuat their head chased the Asuras. Kavya- moving and the not moving, were under the flood. A
mata, by the merits of her devotional meditation horn began to sprout from the head of the fish. Manu
petrified Mahavisnu and Indra. Mahavisnu thought of tied his boat on that horn. The fish reached the summit
his Sudarsana (wheel-weapon of Visnu) which instant- of the Himalayas with the boat, which was tied to the
ly made its appearance and cut off the head of Kavya- highest peak. Since the peak came to be called 'Nau-
mata. The great hermit Bhrgu got angry because Maha- bandhana Srnga' (The peak to which boat is tied) .
visnu committed woman-slaughter, and cursed him thus : The rain ceased to pour. It was seen that everything
"You are a crooked being, a viper, a deceit. The in the world had been destroyed except the Manu and
hermits who adore you as the seat of all that is good the seven hermit-sages and some of the germs, saved
are mere fools; you are wicked, of a black character, in the boat. (This story occurs in the great Hindi work
and I curse you to take countless incarnations in the 'Kamayani' of JayaSankar Prasad). (M.B., Aranya
world, and painful confinement by and by because of Parva, Chapter 187; Agni Purana, Chapter 2; Bhagavata
your sins." (Sri Mahadevi Bhagavata, 4th Skandha). 8th Skandha, Chapter 24) .
Thus having cursed Visnu, the hermit Bhrgu took some This story of the incarnation of Visnu as fish is seen in
water from his water-pot and sprinkled it on the face of the Bible figuratively. "In the order of the generations
Kavyamata, who woke up as if from sleep. (For the of Adam, the first creation of God, Seth, Enos; Kainan,
remaining portion of the story see Sukra). Mahalil, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech and Noah
2) Dasavataras. (The ten Incarnations). Owing to the curse were born. When Noah was five hundred years old he
of Bhrgu, mentioned above, Mahavisnu had to under- begot Shem, Ham and Japheth.
take so many incarnations, complete as well as partial. There was a great flood during the time of Noah. God
Complete incarnations are ten in number. They are said to him : "The end of all flesh is come before one;
(The Ten Incarnations)
called Dasavataras . for the earth is filled with violence through them, and
Matsyah Kurmo Varahasca behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make thee
Narasirhhaica Vamanah / an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the
Ramo Rama sea Ramasca ark and shalt paint it within and without with pitch.
Krsnah Kalkir janardanah // And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of. The
Matsya'(Fish), Kurma (Turtle) Varaha (Pig), Nara- , length of the ark should be three hundred cubits, the
sirhha (Lion-man), Vamana (Dwarf), Rama (Parasu- breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty
rama) Rama (Sri Rama) Rama (Balabhadrarama)
, , ,
cubits. A window shalt thou make to the ark and in a
Krsna Krsna), Kalki (Yet to come) These are
(Sii . cubit shall thou finish it above and the door of the ark
the ten incarnations of Janardana. shalt thou set in the side thereof, with lower, second and
The dasavataras are described one by one below. third stories shalt thou make it. And behold, I, even I,
1) Matsyavatara. (Fish Incarnation) To KaSyapa, the . do bring a flood of water up on the earth, to destroy all
son of Marici, and the grandson of Brahma a son flesh wherein is the breadth of life from under heaven
was born, by his wife Aditi. He was called Vivasvan and everything that is in the earth shall die. But with
and the Manu who was the son of Vivasvan is known thee will I establish my covenant, and thou shalt come
as Vaivasvata Manu or Satyavrata Manu. It was dur- into the ark, thou and thy sons and thy wife and thy
ing the time of this Manu that Visnu incarnated as a sons' wives with thee, and of every living thing of all
Matsya (fish). flesh, two of every sort, shalt thou bring into the ark to
Once, while Brahma was reciting the Vedas (the Scrip- keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and fe-
tures) Hayagriva, an asura, stole the Vedas from the male. Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after
side of Brahma and with them he went under water to their kind, and of every creeping thing of the earth
the bottom of the ocean and hid himself there. So after their kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee
Mahavisnu decided to take the form of a fish to recover to keep them alive. And take thou unto thee of all food
the stolen Vedas. that is eaten and thou shalt gather it to thee, and it
Vaivasvata Manu, the first and foremost of the godfear- shall be for food for thee and for them." Thus did Noah
ing, was once doing penance in a place known as Badari. according to all that God commanded him, so did he.
He got down into the river Krtamala to take a bath. And the Lord said unto Noah, "Come thou and all thy
Then a small fish said to the Manu "Oh King, I am : house into the ark, for thee Have I seen righteous be-
afraid of large fishes. So please don't forsake me". Hear- fore me in this generation. Of every clean beast thou
AVATARA 80 AVATARA
shalt take to thee by sevens the male and his female In the tenth month on the first day of the month
and of beasts that are not clean by two the male and were the tops of the mountains seen. And it came to
his female. Of fowls also of the air by sevens the male pass at the end of forty days that Noah opened the
and the female to keep seed alive up on the face oi all window of the ark which he had made. And he sent
the earth. For yet seven days and I will cause it to rain forth a raven which went forth to and fro until the waters
the earth forty days and forty nights, and every u vie dried up from oil the earth. Also he sent forth
up on
I destroy from a dove from him to see if the waters were abated
living substance that I have made will
off the earth." And Noah did according unto all that from off the face of the ground. But the dove found
the Lord commanded him. no rest for the sole of her foot and she returned
And Noah was six hundred years old when the flood of unto him into the ark for the waters were on
waters was up on the earth. And Noah went in, and the face of the whole earth. Then Noah put forth
his sons and his wife andhis sons' wives with him into his hand and took her and pulled her to the ark. And
the ark because Of clean
of the waters of the flood. he stayed yet other seven days. And again he sent
beasts and of beasts that are not clean and of fowls and forth the dove out of the ark. And the dove came
of everything that creepeth upon the earth. There went in to him in the evening, and lo, in her mouth
in two and two unto Noah into the ark the male and was an olive leaf plucked off. So Noah knew that
the female as God had commanded Noah. And it came the waters were abated from off the earth. And he
to pass after seven days that the waters of the flood were stayed yet other seven days and sent forth the dove,
upon the earth. In the six hundredth year of Noah's which returned not again unto him anymore. And it
life in the second month on the seventeenth day of the came to pass in the six hundredth and first year in the
month the same day were all the fountains of the first month, the first day of the month the waters were
great deep broken up and the windows of heaven were dried up from off the earth and Noah removed the
opened and the rain was up on the earth for forty covering of the ark and looked and beheld the face of
days and forty nights. In the self-same day entered the ground was dry. And in the second month on the
Noah and Shem, and Hani and japheth the sons of seven and twentieth day of the month was the earth
Noah and Noah's wife and the wives of the sons dried. And God spake unto Noah saying: ''Go forth of
with them into the ark. They and every beast after the ark, thou and thy wife, and thy sons and thy sons'
his kind and all the cattle after their kind and wives with thee. Bring forth with thee every living thing
every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth that is with thee, of all flesh both of fowl and of cattle and
and every fowl after his earth after his kind, every of every creeping thing that creepeth up on the earth,
bird of every sort. And they went in unto Noah that they may breed abundantly in the earth and be
into the ark. two and two of all flesh wherein is the fruitful and multiply up on the earth. And Noah went
breadth of life. And they that went in, went in male forth and his sons and his wife and his sons' wives
and female of all flesh as God had commanded him with him. Every beast, every creeping thing and every
and the Lord shut him in. And the flood was forty days fowl and whatsoever creep up on the earth after their
upon the earth, and the waters increased and bore up kinds went forth out of the ark. And Noah built an
the ark and it was lifted up above the earth. And the altar unto the Lord and took of every clean beast and
waters prevailed and were increased greatly upon the of every clean fowl and offered burnt offerings on the
earth and the ark went up on the face of the waters. altar. And the Lord smelt a sweet savour and the Lord
And the waters prevailed exceedingly upon the earth said in his heart "I will not again curse the ground
:
and all the high hills that were under the whole heaven anymore for man's sake. For the imagination of man's
were covered. Fifteen cubits upward did the waters heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I again smite
prevail and the mountains were covered. And all the anymore every thing as I have done. While the earth
flesh died that moved upon the earth, both of fowl and remaineth seed time and harvest and cold and heat
of cattle and of beast and of every creeping thing that and summer and winter and day and nignt shall not
creepeth up on the earth, and every man. All in whose cease. (Holy Bible, Genesis, Chapters 6, 7 and 8) .
nostrils was the breadth of life, of all that was in the 2) Kurmdvatdra. (Incarnation as a tortoise) .
Long ago
dry land, died- And every living substance was des- when Durvasas visited the realm of Gods he presented
troyed which was up on the face of the ground both Devendra with a garland made of flowers of exquisite
man and cattle and the creeping things and the fowl fragrance. Indra tied it on to the tusk of Airavata (the
of the heaven, and they were destroyed from the earth. elephant of Indra) When the beetles which gathered
.
And Noah only remained alive, and they that were on the garland for honey became a nuisance, Aira-
with him in the ark. And the waters prevailed upon vata destroyed that garland. Durvasas who got angry
the earth for hundred and fifty days. at this cursed the gods as a whole that they would get
And God remembered Noah and every living thing wrinkles and grey hair. The gods were advised by
and all the cattle that was with him
in the ark and Mahavisnu that if they got Ambrosia (Amna celestial
God made a wind to pass over the earth and the honey) from the sea of Milk by churning it they could
waters became calm. The fountains also of the deep escape from this. Accordingly the Gods called the
and the windows of heaven were stopped and the rain asuras for help, and they approached the sea of Milk.
from heaven was restrained. And the waters returned They made use of the Mountain of Mandara as churn-
from off the earth continually and after the end of the drill and the huge snake Vasuki as churning rope, and
hundred and fifty days, the waters were abated. And the the churning commenced. The gods took hold of the
ark rested in the seventh month on the seventeenth day tail of the snake and as the churning was proceeding
of the month upon the mountains of Ararat. And the the churn-drill, the mountain of Mandara, having no
waters decreased continually until the tenth month. fixation at the bottom sank down. Then Mahavisnu
AVATARA 81 AVATARA
took the form of a turtle, and got under the Mandara fire.But the child felt the fire to be cool and soothing.
mountain and lifted it up on his back. By the force of From that fire a ghost arose and tried to kill Prahlada.
lifting it went higher
and higher up. Then Mahavisnu took Instantly the Sudarsana, the wheel-weapon of Visnu
theformof an eagle and sat on the top of the mountain came down and cut off the head of the ghost. Hiranya-
and it came down a little and placed itself in the right kasipu jumped with anger and called out. "Where
is your Visnu?" His son replied that his Visnu dwelt
position. (Bhagavata, Skandha 8, Chapter 7; Agni
in every movable and immovable thing. Hiranyakasipu
Purana, Chapter 3; Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda,
Sarga 45) . kicked at a stone pillar close by and asked him, "Is
3) Vardhavatara. (Incarnation as a Pig) Jayaand Vijaya
.
your Visnu in this pillar?" Prahlada replied, "My Visnu
were the two watchers who stood at the gate of Maha- is in Pillar and in fibre". Before he had finished, the
visnu. Once the great hermit-sages Sanaka and others Pillar broke open and a monster as horrible as the
reached Vaikuntha to visit Mahavisnu. Then Jaya and Destroyer Siva, in the shape of a lion-man made its
Vijaya treated the hermits without respect. The hermits appearance.
cursed them that they would become Danavas (Asuras "Mimamsamanasya samuthito 'grato
or giants). They also said that when they were slain Nrsimharupastadalam bhayanakarh
thrice by Mahavisnu they would reach heaven. At Prataptacamikaracandalocanarh
that period when hermit Kasyapa was carrying on Sphuratsatakesarajrmbhitananarh
his evening prayer and devotional rites, his wife Diti Karaladamstram Karavalacancala-
approached him with lustful desire. Kasyapa told her Ksurantajihvam bhrukutimukholbanam
that as he was engaged in prayer and meditation it Stabdhordhvakarnam girikandaradbhuta-
was not proper on her part to select that particular vyattasyanasamhanubhedabhi sanarh
moment for her lustful desire. But she persisted and Divisprsatkayamadlrghaplvara-
the sage yielded and out of that union two sons were Grivoruvaksahsthalamalpamadhyamam
born. They are the two asuras Hiranyaksa and Hiranya- CandrarhSugauraischuritarh tanuruhai-
kasipu. Of these Hiranyaksa was the incarnation of rvisvagbhujanikaSatarh nakhayudham."
Jaya and Hiranyakasipu that of Vijaya.* With the "Before him who was waiting with curiosity to see what
birth of these two the whole world began to tremble. would happen, with eyes blazing as molten gold, mouth
These two asura brothers began to terrorize the world. wide open in the middle of long bushy mane, tusks
They wandered about causing destruction and devasta- long and curved and protruding fearfully, tongue sway-
tion wherever they went. Once Hiranyaksa got down ing like a sword, eyebrows fierce looking, ears standing
into the ocean and began to beat the waves in the erect and still, two nostrils as wide and deep as moun-
ocean with his cudgel. The ocean began sway and
to tain canyons, jaws prominent and thick and broad and
surge. Varuna (the Lord of water) was terrified and set with fierceness, colossal body reaching the sky, neck
he ran to Mahavisnu and sought protection. Maha- very thick and fat and short, breast excessively broad
visnu took the form of a Pig and came to the ocean. and strong, waist very small and narrow, body thickly
When Hiranyaksa saw Mahavisnu he took the earth in covered with bushy hair exuberantly grown and as
his hand and ran to Patala (the nether world) Maha- .
yellow as the light of the moon, a number of claws very
visnu followed him and killed him and recovered the sharp and pointed, the horrid monster Narasirhha
earth. (Bhagavata, Skandha 3, Chapter 18; Bhagavata, (Lion with human head) suddenly appeared. (Bhaga-
Skandha 2, Chapter 7 and Agni Purana, Chapter 4) .
vata, Skandha 7, Chapter 8, Stanzas 20-22).
4) Narasimhdvatara. (Incarnation as lion-man) With the
. This was the figure of Narasirhha. Mr. S. Paramesvara
death of Hiranyaksa, his brother HiranyakaSipu became Iyer, Ulloor, has described this figure in his "Bhakti-
furious more than ever. He wanted to avenge the death dipika" as follows :
of his brother. His fury was turned towards Mahavisnu. "Glaring eyes burning as blazing cinder, tongue as a
So he got on the top of the Mountain of Mandara and dagger just used in piercing to death, neck with folds,
did penance before Brahma and Brahma appeared and eyebrows looking mad, tusks like young moon, fierce
granted him boons, one of which was that nobody but face with bushy mane grown to it, hair long and sharp
Visnu should be able to kill him. He returned with like pointed wire, claws looking like having drunk blood,
gladness and began to roam about torturing devotees body shining as if countless suns had risen together, all
of Visnu everywhere. combined as if the fire of anger burning inside had
A son named Prahlada was born to him. He was a god- incarnated, in the shape of a lion up to neck and
fearing child and from birth an ardent believer in Visnu. human shape beyond the neck." (Bhaktidtpika)
Hiranyakasipu tried his utmost to change his son to a The horrid monster caught hold of Hiranyakasipu the
hater of Visnu. He a special teacher for the
got King of the Asuras, pushed him to the ground and
purpose and Prahlada was taken to the house of the opened his heart with its fierce claws. Blood sprouted
teacher to live with him until he changed his mind. The like a spring. With great ferocity he pulled out the in-
result was that the teacher and all others who advised testines of Hiranyaka^ipu and wore them round his
him ultimately became believers in Visnu. Anger over- neck as a garland and roared loudly. Prahlada, with
powered Hiranyakasipu. Prahlada was thrown before songs of praise and chanting of hymns of adoration
mad elephants. But the tusks of the elephant missed the pacified the stormy Narasirhha and bowed low down
aim and were driven into the earth and broken. Veno- before him. The Narasirhha was pleased with the devo-
mous snakes were employed and those which bit him had tion of Prahlada. He blessed the child and then dis-
their fangs broken. Finally the child was put in blazing
appeared. (Bhagavata, Skandha 7, Chapter 8).
"During their next birth they made their appearance as Ravnca and Kumbhakarna and during the third birth they were Sisupala and
Dandavaktra.
AVATARA 82 AVATARA
5) Vdmandvatdra. (Incarnation as a Dwarf). It was to ex- the son of Atri, by doing penance and got the boon of
Mahavisnu incarnat- one thousand hands. One day he went to the forest for
pel the Emperor Mahabali, that
ed as a dwarf. To Kasyapa, the son of Marici and hunting and entered the bank of Narmada. The hermit
the grandson of Brahma, was born of Dili, Hiranya- Jamadagni had been living there with his wife Renuka
kasipu. And from Prahlada the
son of Hiranyakasipu and sons ParaSurama and others. The King being tired
was born Virocana and Bali was the son of Virocana. of hunting got into the
hermitage. Parasurama was not
Bali got the name Mahabali because of his prowess. there. The hermit called his divine cow Kamadhenu,
He was the emperor of the Asuras. A fierce battle which provided the King and his followers with a very
began over the Ambrosia got from churning the sea good supper.
of Milk, between the Asuras and the gods. In the battle When the King departed he asked for the wonderful
Indra cut Mahabali down with his Vajrayudha. The cow. The hermit did not consent. The King caught
Asuras took the body of Mahabali to Patala (the hold of the cow by force and went to his city. ParaSu-
nether world) where their teacher Sukra brought him to rama went to Mahismatinagar the capital of Kartta-
life again. Then Mahabali worshipped the Bhargavas
vlryarjuna, killed the King and took Kamadhenu back.
and became more powerful than before and went to From that day onwards the sons of Karttavirya were
heaven again and renewed the battle. This time he waiting for an opportunity to take revenge.
defeated the Gods altogether and subjugated the realm
of the Gods who were scattered to all sides. The devas
Once Renuka went to the river to bring water. A gan-
dharva (semi god) named Citraratha was bathing in
or gods are the sons of KaSyapa born by his wife, Aditi.
the river. She happened to look at him fora little while.
She felt very sorry at the defeat of the gods. Seeing that
she was silent and sad Kasyapa asked her the reason.
When she returned the hermit was very angry and asked
each of his sons to cut off the head of their mother. They
She replied that she was thinking of ways to enable the
all refused. But ParaSurama
immediately obeyed his
gods to recover their lost power and position. Kasyapa father and cut off her head. His father was pleased and
advised her to please Mahavisnu by observing Dva-
said that he might ask any boon. He requested his father
dall vrata ( fast of the twelfth lunar night) Aditi did
.
pushed him down to Patala. Thus the gods regained incarnation of Bala-
8) Balabhadrardmdvatdra. (The
their lost places. (Bhagavata, Skandha 8, Chapter
A description that by the toe of Vamanas' raised 19).
foot
bhadrarama) (See theword Balabhadrarama).
(raised for measuring the third step) the testicle of 9) Sri Krsndvatdra. (The incarnation of Sri Krsna) (See
Brahma was cut open where from the Ganges originated, the word Krsna).
is seen in the Bhagavata, Skandha 5. At the end
10) Kalkyavatdra (The incarnation as Kalki).
When ViSvamitra took Rama and Laksmana to the of Kaliyuga (the Age of Kali) all the people would
forest they entered a holy hermitage and ViSvamitra
become atheists and sceptics. Rewards will be received
told the boys that it was the hermitage where Aditi from the depraved. The classes will be mixed. People
long ago had observed dvadaslfast. It was in that same would become degenerate having no good qualities. A
place that Vamana incarnated and placed his step on religion called 'Vajasaneyam' with its fifteen doctrines
the head of Mahabali.
only will be acceptable. People would become irrespon-
"The bright Madhava took birth in Aditi as Vamana sible wearing the garment of duty. Lawless people
and went to Mahabali, requested for three feet of ground would take the form of Kings and will begin to eat
and brought under control the three worlds for the men. In those days Lord Visnu will incarnate as Kalki,
good
of all. By binding Bali by might, he gave to Indra the the son ofVisnuyasas and the priest of Yajnavalkya and
three worlds and this hermitage is the learn the arts of wielding weapon and handling missiles
place where He
once placed his steps. I am a devotee of that Vamana." and destroy all lawless ones. The subjects will be
(Valmlki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Sarga 29) .
brought back to the four classes and the four agramas
.
6) ParaSurdmdvatdra. (Incarnation as Parasurama) .
Once or stages of life and the doctrines and directions of the
Karttavlryarjuna pleased the hermit-sage Dattatreya long-established religion and peace and order will be
AVlCI AVINDHVA
restored. Then the Lord will cast away the form of (1) Raurava (2) Sukara (3) Rodha (4) Tala (5) Visa-
Kalki and go to heaven. After that, as of old, Krtayuga sana (6) Mahajvala (7) Taptakumbha (8) Lavana
(the first age) will begin class distinctions and the four (9) Vilohita (10) Rudhirambhas (11) Vaitarani
stages of life and such other establishments will once (12) Krmlsa (13) Krtnibhojana (14) Asipatravana
more prevail. (Agni Purana, Chapter 16). (15) Krsna (16) Lalabhaksa (17) Daruna (18) Puya-
The Incarnations of Mahdvifnu. vaha (19) Papa (20) Vahnijvala (21) Adhass"iras
3)
(22) Sandamsa (23) Kalasutra (24) Tamas (25) Avici
It ismentioned in Sri MahadevI Bhagavata, Skandha 1,
(26) Svabhojana (27) Apratistha (28) Apraci. (Visnu
Chapter 3 that Mahavisnu had taken the twentysix Purana, ArriSa2, Chapter 6).
incarnations given below :
The hell called Avici is described thus "This is the :
1) Sanaka 2) Sananda 3) Sanatana 4) Sanatkumara hell meant for those stand false witness, who take
who
5) Varaha (pig) 6) Narada 7) Nara Narayanas 8) false oath and false name. The soldiers of Yama will
Kapila 9) Dattatreya 10) Yajna 11) Rsabha 12) Prthu push these false people into the hell of Avici, from the
Matsya Mohini 15)'Kurma
13) (fish) 14) (turtle) top of a mount which is a hundred yojanas (league) high.
16) Garuda (eagle) 17) Narasimha
Dhanvantari 18) The place of Avici, like the waves of the ocean, is swell-
(Lion-man) 19) Vaniana (dwarf) 20) Parasurama ing and falling and swaying and surging always. When
21) Vyasa 22) Sri Rama 23) Balabhadrarama 24) sinners fall there their bodies will be crumbled to pieces.
Sri Krsna 25) Buddha 26) Kalki. (Information about Their life will enter into new bodies and then the punish-
Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasirhha, Vamana and ment will be repeated again and again." (Devi Bhaga-
Parasurama, are given under the word Avatara and vata, Skandha 8).
for the rest see the same words) .
''And after that to make it possible for the Lord with AVIKAMPANA. This ancient King got from the her-
four faces to rule his subjects justly and well. He took mit Jyestha Satvatadharma (righteousness). (M.B.,
various incarnations with his portions, the first four of Santi Parva, Chapter 384, Stanza 47).
which are four persons, Sanaka, Sananda, Sanatana and AVIKSIT I. A famous King. The son of Karandhama
Sanatkumara, in the order given, four or five-year old and father of Marutta. He was honoured even by
children, well-versed in the fourVedas, the four always Brhaspati, having performed a hundred horse sacrifices.
inseparable wandered everywhere come to the world Mention is made in the Markandeya Purana that Aviksit
to show the merits of Brahmacarya (the vow of celi- had seven wives Vara, Gaurl, Subhadra, Lilavatl,
:
tattva (essence) of Sat (good) and tama (darkness) taken this Vaisalini from her Svayamvara dais (the
He took the form of hermit Narada. To show the merits bride herself selecting a husband from those who are
of penance He became Nara and Narayana. To impart present), defeating the Kings who were present
to the world the meaning of Sarhkhya Yoga (Indian there. Those defeated Kings, later, joined together and
Philosophy dealing with evolution and union with the defeated Aviksit and took him a prisoner. Finally Kara-
Supreme Spirit) He came as Kapila the learned. To ndhama rescued him. His greatness is described as
teach the world the laws of chastisement He was follows :
born as Datta of the wife of Atri. Then He came as "The righteous man Aviksit is equal to India in pro-
Yajna to become Indra. The next incarnation He took wess. This austere and righteous man has become a
was Rsabha, the noble King. To shorten and flatten In brightness he is equal to the
great sacrificer.
the earth He came as Prthu. To recover the Vedas he
Sun, as forgiving as the earth, in intelligence equal
took the form of Matsya ( fish) To remove wrinkles and
.
to Brhaspati and as firm as the Himalayas. By his
grey hair the gods had churned the sea of Milk and thought, word, and deed and self control and noble
then to lift the mount Mandara He went under it and actions he kept his subjects in peace and prosperity."
as a bird He got up on it. To give the world Ayurveda Asvamedha Parva, Chapter Stanzas
(Bhasa Bharata, 4,
( the scripture of medicine ) He came as Dhanvantari.
19-21').
To entice Asuras and to recover Ambrosia from them
He took the form of Mohini. To save the devoted AVIKSIT II. Five sons were born to King Kuru by his
wife Vahinl. Aviksit was one of thtm. [See the word
Prahlada and to slay his father He came in the form of
Narasirhha. Then as Vamana the younger brother of Vamsavall (Genealogy)].
Indra to d.-ceive Mahabali and to recover the lost worlds AVIMUKTA (M) The middle part of the city of Kasl.
.
for the gods he came. To destroy the Kings who were There is a holy temple here. It is said that those who
haters of Brahmins He came as the son of Jama- commit suicide in this temple would attain heaven.
dagni. Then he took the incarnation of Veda Vyasa. (Vana Parva, Chapter 64, Stanzas 78 and 79). For
And to slay the giant Ravana He became Sri Rama. more information see the word Divodasa.
Next we see Him
Balabhadrarama. Then He came
as AVINDHYA. A giant in whom Ravana had confidence.
as Devaklsuta [son of DevakI (Kfsna)]. Next He came But he held the opinion that Slta should be returned
in the Kaliyuga as Sri Buddha and at the end of Kali-
toRama.
yuga He will come as Kalki. And there are many in- "The aged giant and noble leader Avindhya, who had
carnations to speak of."
still
earned the confidence of Ravana, brave, learned and of
AVlCI. One of the twentyeight hells. The following good qualities, pleaded with Ravana and said that
are the twentyeight hells : Rama would exterminate the entire race of the giants,
AVIRATHA 84 AYODHADHAUMYA
but the wicked Ravana would not pay heed to his open and Aruni came out, and because of that Aruni
words." got the name Uddalaka. (M.B., Chapter 3, Verses
(Sri ValmTki Ramayana, Sundara Kanda, Sarga 37, 21-33).
Stanzas 12 and 13). This aged giant had sent Trijata 2) Disciple Upamanyu. Once Dhaumya (the guru) asked
to the Asoka park to console Sita. Hear what she says: his second disciple Upamanyu to tend the cows. He
"The famous giant leader, the noble aged well-wisher used to take care of the animals grazing in the woods
of Rama, Avindhya, had told me about you." during daytime and return home at dusk and prostrate
"
(M.B., Aranya Parva, Stanza 56). There is a situa- before the Looking at the plump and healthy
guru.
tion in Vana Parva when this noble giant prevented body of Upamanyu the guru asked him how he was
Ravana from his attempt to kill Sita. feeding himself. His reply was that he was begging
"When he saw the decision of Ravana to kill Sita, alms and feeding himself with what he got thus. Then
Avandhya pacified Ravana" and said, "you, a great King the guru asked him to hand over to him (guru) all
of a great kingdom should not deteriorate to the level alms got in future. After that he used to give everything
of killing a woman. A woman who is in prison and at he got byway of alms to the guru. And, he continued
your disposal is as good as dead. But in my opinion, even returning to the Gurukula at dusk and prostrating be-
if you cut her body into pieces she would not die and fore the guru. Finding Upamanyu even then as plump
if she must die you will have to kill her husband." and healthy as he was formerly, the guru said :
My
(M.B., Aranya Parva, Chapter 289, Stanzas 28 to 30) . son Upamanyu, you hand over to me all the alms you
From this statement the wonderful intelligence of get, and yet your body looks as trim as of old. How
Avindhya could be understood. It is seen in stanzas 6 happens it so ?" Upamanyu replied "After giving the
:
and 7 of Chapter 291 of M.B., Vana Parva that it was alms I get first to you, my guru, I do again beg for
Avindhya who had taken Sita before Sri Rama when alms and feed myself". To this the guru reacted thus:
he had captured Lanka. My boy, what you do is not the proper thing. By the
AVIRATHA. A hermit of the family of Kardama. second course of alms-taking you stand in the way of
Genealogy. Brahma-Kardama-Kapila -Grtsapati - Brah- other people getting their food. It is gross injustice to
mana-Dhanvantari-Ketuman-Aviratha. do so."
AVIVAHITA. (Spinster). In the Mahabharata a Upamanyu, from that day onwards strictly followed
statement regarding spinsters and widows is seen. his guru's instruction, and continued returning at dusk
"Place meat on the ground and many birds will come to the guru and doing obeisance to him.
to it. So also men will gather round the woman who Even then to be quite plump and
finding Upamanyu
is having no husband."
(M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 158, healthy the guru told him : "Well, now you hand over
Stanza 12). to me all the alms you get, and you do not take alms
AVYAYA. A serpent of the Dhrtarastra family. This a second time the same day. Yet you are quite fit and
serpent fell in the sacrificial fire meant for serpents, fat. How is it so ?"
prepared by Janamejaya. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter To this Upamanyu's reply was that he was feeding him-
57, Stanza 16). self on the milk of the cows he tended. The guru told
AYASSA&KU. A great Asura. He was born as a Prince him that this too was not just and proper on his part.
of the Kekaya kingdom. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 67, The guru had not permitted him to drink milk thus.
Verse 10). Upamanyu agreed to obey his orders. And, as usual he
AYASSlRAS. A son of Kasyapa by his wife, Danu. continued tending the cows and returning at dusk. Even
(M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 23) He was born
. then he maintained the same plump and healthy phy-
a prince of Kekaya. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 67, sique. And the Guru told him as follows "You do not
:
Verse 10). eat the food you get at the first alms- taking, you do not
AYATAYAMA(S). See Guruparampara. go in for alms a second time the same day, nor do you
AYATI. Son of King Nahusa and brother of Yayati. drink milk. Yet, how is it that you maintain the same
(M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 75, Verse 30) . fat and healthy physique as in former days ?"
AYAVAHA(M). A place in ancient India. (M.B., Upamanyu's reply was that he was feeding now-a-days
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 5) . on the foam of milk bristling at the mouth of the
AYOBAHU (AYOBHUJA). A son of Dhrtarastra. (M.B. :
calves when they had fed on their mother's milk. And,
Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 98) Bhlmasena killed
. the guru said "if that is so the calves will be, out of
:
him at Kuruksetra. (MB., Drona Parva, Chapter 157, kindness and sympathy for you, releasing much foam
Verse 19). of milk out of their mouths. That will affect them. So,
AYODHADHAUMYA (Ayodhadhaumya). Apoda- do not repeat the process. Since the guru forbade him
dhaumya, Apodadhaumya, Dhaumya. A great Muni to have food in any manner as detailed above, Upa-
(sage). He had three disciples, Aruni, Upamanyu and manyu, while tending the herd of cows in the forest, ate
Veda. the bitter and poisonous leaves of a tree one day to
1) Disciple Aruni. He belonged to Pancala, and once his burning hunger. The leaf was bitter in taste
satisfy his
guru deputed him to construct embankments in the and injurious in its properties. Therefore, this new way
field. But, his attempts to construct embankments of satisfying hunger affected the health of the eyes of
did not succeed. Finally he lay himself in the field Upamanyu and he became blind. Moving about in this
where the embankment was required, and then the condition he into a neglected well in the woods.
fell
flow of water stopped. The guru enquired about Aruni, When, even sun had set, Upamanyu did not,
after the
who was thus lying in the field. Then only he knew as usual, return, the guru enquired about him from
the reason for Aruni's absence. The guru went to the other disciples. Naturally, they told the guru that
field and called Aruni. Then the embankment burst Upamanyu was out in the forest with the cows. As the
AYODHYA 85 ACAMANA
guru felt that Upamanyu was staying away late in the search of Slta, and requested Laksmana to marry her.
he had been prevented from doing every-
forest since Laksmana, as in the case of Surpanakha cut off her
thing he (guru) went to the forest accompanied by nose and breasts and drove her away. (Valmlki Rama-
other disciples and called out for Upamanyu, and yana, Aranya Kanda, Chapter 69).
Upamanyu responded from deep down the well. He AYUTANAYI. A king of the 1'uru Vamsa; he was the
also told the guru how he happened to fall into the well. son of Maharaja Bhauma. Suyajna, Kama and Akro-
After telling him that if only he would pray to the dha were the names respectively of his mother, wife
Asvinldevas they will cure his blindness the guru return- and son. He came to be known as Ayutanfiyi because
ed to the Asrama with other disciples. Upamanyu, of his having performed 10,000 Purusamcdhas. (M.B.,
accordingly offered praises and prayed to the Asvinl- Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verses 19-20)
devas, who were so pleased with him that they appeared AYUTAYU. A
king who ruled his state for 1000 years.
before him and gave him a bread. Upamanyu refused The Puranas like Bhagavata, the Matsya and the Vayu
to eat the bread without giving it to the guru. Then refer to him as the son of Srutasravas.
the Asvinldevas told him thus: "In the past when we AYUTAYUS. Father of King Rtuparna. (Bhagavata,
gave your guru a bread like this he ate the same with- Navama Skandha) For genealogy see Iksvaku dynasty.
.
out giving it to his guru. You may just imitate him A. (sfj) This word means Brahma and also anadara-
and eat the bread yourself". Even then Upamanyu did vakya (a word showing disrespect). In the indeclinable
not eat the bread. The Asvinldevas were so much form it means limit, anger and pain.
pleased at this that they blessed Upamanyu thus "The : ABHIRAS.
teeth of your guru will turn into hard iron and yours A few details: 1) A
low-caste people. People living in
into pure gold. Your blindness will be cured and all the estuary of the rivers of Sindhu and Sarasvati were
happiness and prosperity will be yours." generally called Abhiras. In the Sabha Parva of Maha-
The blessings of the Asvinldevas took full effect, and bharata we find Nakula defeating these people during
Upamanyu hurried to his guru and prostrated at his his victory march after the great Mahabharata battle.
feet. Dhaumya and the other disciples of his congratu- 2) Once Abhiras went to Dharmaputra with many
lated Upamanyu. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 3, Verses (Slokas 11-13. Chapter 51, Sabha Parva, M.B.).
gifts.
34-77). 3) Once it was prophesied by Markandeya Rsi, that
3) Disciple, Veda. Ayodhadhaumya one day said to low-caste people like Abhiras and Sakas would become
Veda, his third disciple: "You stay with me for some- rulers of states in different parts of Bharata during
time serving me. That will bring you all prosperity in Kaliyuga. (Slokas 35-36, Chapter 188, Vana Parva,
life." Veda agreed, and stayed for a long time in the M.B.).
AsVama in the service of the guru. Without even the 4) In the Garudavyiiha (Battle array named after
slightest murmur he put up with every discomfort and Garuda) which Drona created during the Kuruksetra
hardship, be it acute hunger and thirst or extreme battle he included Abhiras also. (Sloka 6, Chapter 20,
cold or heat, and gladly performed all the work and Drona Parva, M.B.).
duties the master imposed on him. The guru was ab- 5) Because of the hatred of Siidras and Abhiras a sac-
solutely pleased and his blessings resulted in all pros- red lake named Vinasana disappeared from the river,
perity and omnipotence for the disciple. (M.B., Adi 1 and
Sarasvati. (Slokas 2, Chapter 37, Salya Parva,
Parva, Chapter 3, Verses 78-80) .
M.B.).
AYODHYA. A city in North India which enjoyed great 6) Abhiras were Ksatriyas formerly. Afraid of Parasu-
importance and reputation for many years as the capi- rama they fled and lived in mountain-caves not conti-
tal of the Kings of the solar dynasty. ( See Iksvaku nuing their hereditary work and thus became Sudras.
dynasty). All the Kings of this dynasty ruled the coun- (Sloka 16, Chapter 29, Asvamedhika Parva, M.B.) .
try from
this city as their capital. Vasistha, the great 7) When Dvaraka was destroyed by floods and all the
preceptor of the Iksvaku Rajas, came to Ayodhya dur- Yadavas were killed Arjuna went north taking along with
ing the period of the reign of Kalmasapada, who was him the wives of Sri Krsna. At that time Abhiras were
the thirtyfifth ruler in succession to Iksvaku. A quarrel among those who attacked and carried away the
broke out between Kalmasapada and Vasistha during women. (Slokas 47-63, Chapter 7, Mausalya Parva,
a hunting expedition, and Vasistha cursed the King M.B.).
and as the result the latter became a Raksasa. After ACAMANA. First drink water three times accompanied
regaining his former form as King, he apologised to by incantations and then with water wipe your face
Vasistha and they became friends again. At the requ- twice and your eyes, ears, nose, shoulders, breast and
est of the King in the interests of his dynasty Vasistha head once. This act is called Acamana.
came to Ayodhya, and the people were greatly elated. "Triracamedapah purvarii
A son was born to Vasistha by Kalmasapada's wife and Dvih pramrjyattato mukharh
that son was Asmaka. After that Vasistha used to go to Khani caiva spi'sedadbhir
Ayodhya frequently and was installed as family precep- Atmanam eva ca"
sira
tor of the Iksvakus. Till the time of Sri Ramathe city (Manusmrti, Sloka 60, Chapter 2).
of Ayodhya maintained its pomp and glory, and after Devi Bhagavata in its eleventh Skandha says about
that gradually its decay and fall set in. Laudatory refe- Acamana like this "Drinking water by your right hand
:
rences to the city are found in most of the Puranas is acamana. Curve your palm into the shape of
called
like the Mahabharata, Brahmanda Purana etc. (See a spoon, hold water in it and drink. There must be
Kosala). enough water in the palm to cover a green-gram seed,
AYOMUKHl. A Raksasa woman. She met Sri Rama not less nor more. If it falls short or exceeds the mea-
and Laksmana on their way to Matamgasrama in sure it is considered to be like drinking alcohol. While
ACARAMARYADAS 86 AGNIVESYA (AGNIVESA)
shaping your palm neither your little finger nor your and Mitra are all synonyms of Surya in Rgveda they
thumb should touch the other fingers. At the time of are all separate dcvas. There is no end to the varieties
acamana you should support your right hand by your of Adityas and their prominence in the Vedas. Sum-
lelt hand. Otherwise the water will turn impure." marising we can say thus. The familiar devas like
ACARAMARYADAS. Sec under Pujavidhi. Indra, Agni, Varuna and Surya are not found in the
ADAMBARA. One of the five Parsadas whom Brahma same form or power as we are taught to believe. Those
gave to Skandadeva. Brahma gave Kunda, Kusuma, whom we have lowered down to the posts of the eight
Kumuda, Damba and Adambara. sentries of the universe are very prominent devatas in
ADI. A mighty son of the demon, Andhakiisura. He did the Vedas. Many Adityas have merged in Surya and
penance to please Brahma and obtained from him a winds in the god of Vuyu. Rudra has merged in Siva.
boon to seek vengeance on Siva who had murdered his Who will believe that the all-powerful Deva of the Rg-
father. The boon was that Adi would die only when he veda and the vainglorious Indra who lives in fear of
left his present form and took another form. After men doing penance are one and the same person ?"
obtaining the boon Adi went to Kailasa and outwitting ADITYAHRDAYA. A mantra (incantation) of great
the sentries entered the abode of Siva in the shape of a power to destroy all enemies. During the combat with
serpent. After that he disguised himself as ParvatI and Ravana at one time Rama fell exhausted in the battle-
went near Siva. But Siva knew the trick and killed him. field. Seeing this the sage Agastya rushed to him and
( Srsti Khanda of Padma Purana) .
taught him this mantra. (Sarga 107, Yuddha Kanda,
AplBAKA. A combat without serving any useful pur- Valmlki Ramayana).
pose and conducted out of sheer spite between two ADITYAKETU. One of the sons of Dhrtarastra. Bhlma
people to the surprise of others. The fight between sena killed him in the great battle of Kuruksetra.
Vasisfha and Visvamitra was of this kind. (Skandha 6 (Sloka 102, Chapter 67, Adi Parva and Sloka 28, Chap-
of Devi Bhagavata). Bhlsma Parva, M.B.).
ter 88,
ADIGADADHARA. It was with the bones of an asura ADITYASENA. A very brave King. Stories about this
(demon) named Gada that Mahavisnu made the first are found in Kathasaritsagara. (Taraiiga 4, Katha-
King
gada (mace) By that mace Visnu killed Heti and other
.
pithalambaka) .
asuras of that lot and got the name Adigadadhara (He ADITYATlRTHA. An ancient holy place on the banks
who first handled the mace). (See under Gada). of the river, Sarasvati. (Sloka 17, Chapter 99, Salya
ADIKtJRMA. The mountain of Mandara which was Parva, M.B.) .
used as a churn-stick to churn the great milky ocean, ADITYAVAR&A. A king who always ordered without
Kslrabdhi went down the ocean. Then Mahavisnu thinking and repented later. The book Kathasaritsagara
took the shape of a tortoise to lift it up and this first tells the story of this King in the fifth taraiiga of its
tortoise was called Adikurma. (Sloka 12, Chapter 18, part, Kathapithalambaka.
Adi Parva, M.B.) . ADYAKATHA. A sage of old. He attended the sacrifice
ADIPARVA. One of the parvans of the epic Mahabharata. conducted by the King Uparicara. (Sloka 9, Chapter
It is the first parva. (See under Bharata). 336, Santi Parva, M,B.).
ADIPARVATA. The place of abode of Siva in the AGNEYAPURANA. See under Agnipurana,
Himalayas. (Sloka 22, Chapter 327, Santi Parva, M.B.). AGNEYASTRA. A powerful weapon or missile- One
ADIRAJA. The son of Kuru who was a king of the night Arjuna fought against agandharva, Arigaraparna,
Puru dynasty. (See under Puru).
on the banks of the river Ganges. Arjuna then described
ADlSlSlRA. One of the disciples of Sakalya. Vyasa ,
and equal divisions and taught each of his five disciples, pati and Bharadvaja gave it to Agnivesya who in turn
gave it to Drona and the latter gave it to Arjuna, his
Vatsyayana, Maudgalya, Sali, AdisiSira and Gokhali a most favourite disciple. (Slokas 29-30, Chapter 170, Adi
division. (Skandha 12, Bhagavata).
Parva, M.B.) .
including Indra. All of them are called Adityas mean- Viranaprajapati. Puskarim hailed from the dynasty of
From Marutta. To Manu were born of Nadvala ten sons,
ing children of Aditi. the thirtythree sons of Aditi
were born the thirtythree crores of devatas. Of these Kuru, Puru, Satadyumna, Tapasvi, Satyavan, Suci,
the eldest is Indra and the youngest, Vamana. (Sloka Agnistoma, Atiratra, Sudyumna, and Abhimanyu. Of
these, Kuru got of his wife Agneyl six sons: Aiiga,
36, Chapter 66, Adi Parva, M.B.). (There is corrobora-
tion for this in Sloka 14, Sarga 14, Aranya Kanda, Sumanas, Khyati, Kratu, Angiras and Sibi. Vena was
Valmlki Ramayana) .
born to Anga of his wife Sunltha. (Chapter 13, AmSam
Sirdar K.M. Panikar in his preface to the book "Rgveda- 1, Visnu Puiana).
Aditya. But there are many different Adityas in Rg- an armour and the sacred mantras associated with it
veda, chief of them is Varuna. Though Savita, Pusa from Brhaspati. He was the Acarya of Dhanurveda and
AGRAYANA 87 ANA II
the revered preceptor of Drona. (Slokas 67 and 68, appeared before him and blessed him. (Patala Khanda,
Chapter 94, Drona Parva, M.B.) . Padma Purana) .
AGRAYAI^A. The fourth son of the Agni, Bhanu. AKROSA. A king of ancient Bharata. He was king over
(Sloka 13, Chapter 221, Vana Parva, M.B.). the land ofMahottha. Nakula conquered him during
AGREYA. A country conquered by Kama. (Slokas 19- his victory march. (Slokas 5 and 6, Chapter 32, Sabha
21, Chapter 254, Vana Parva, M.B.). Parva, M.B.).
AHAVANlYA. An agni. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter AKRTI. A king of ancient Bharata. This king ruled
74, Verse 67). over the land of Saurastra. (Sloka 61, Chapter 31,
AHUKA. A king of Yadu Vamsa. He was the father of Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
AJAGARA PARVA. A sub-division of the Vana Parva ALVAR. See the word NAMMALVAR.
of Mahabharata. (See under M.B.) . AMA. See under AVATARA.
AJAGARAVRATA. The vrata practised by the sage, AMARATHA. A place in ancient Bharata. (Sloka 54,
Ajagara. (A vrata is a predetermined course of action _ ChapterBhisma Parva, M.B.).
9,
which is followed with continued persistence). In his ANA I. (A Malayalam word meaning elephant). Bhaga-
own words it is the following "If I get a grand feast
: vata relates the story of how Indradyumna became
I will
accept it but I will go without food for days an elephant by the curse of Agastya. (See under Indra-
together if I do not get any food at all. People used to dyumna) .
feed me well sometimes, sometimes a little and some- ANA II. (Elephant) . Valmlki Ramayana narrates the
times not at all. I will eat vegetables and cakes some- origin of elephants thus; "Kasyapa was born to Marlci,
times. I will eat meat and any kind of food. I will lie on son of Brahma. KaSyapa married the daughters, Aditi,
soft bed or on bare earth sometimes and in big houses Dili, Danu, Kalika, Tamra, Krodhavasa, Manu and
if I get the chance. I will wear costly clothes if I get Anala, of Daksaprajapati. Of these Krodhavas"a gave
them or I will wear dried leaves and animal skins. If birth to ten girls, MrgI, Mrgamada, Harl, Bhadramata,
I get food from yagasalas I will never refuse it, but I Matarigl, Sardull, Sveta, Surabhi, Surasa, and Kadru.
will never go seeking for it." (Slokas 19-25, Chapter Elephants were born as the sons of Matarigl. (Sarga 14,
1
79, Santi Parva, M.B.) .
Aranya Kanda, Valmlki Ramayana.) .
AJAGAVA. The bow of Mandhata and Prthu and the There is a story in the Mahabharata to explain why the
Gandlva of Arjuna bear the name Ajagava. (Slokas 33 tongue of the elephant is curved inside. "Bhrgu Maharsi
and 34, Chapter 126, Vana Parva; Sloka 94, Chapter cursed Agni and greatly dejected over this he dis-
145, Drona Parva, M.B. and Chapter 13, ArhSam 1 of appeared from public and hid somewhere. The Devas
Visnu Purana) . started searching for him and it was an elephant that
AjAMlDHA. A king born of the family of Ajamidha. showed the devas the hiding place of Agni. Agni then
AjANEYA. A species of good horses. (Sloka 10, Chap- cursed the elephants and said that thereafter all the
ter 270, Vana Parva, M.B.). elephants would have their tongues curved inside. (Sloka
AjYAPA (S) . A
community of Pitrs belonging to the 36, Chapter 85, AnuSasana Parva, M.B.).
dynasty of Pulaha. They are called so because they The signs of good elephants and the treatment to be
drink during yagas the ghee made out of goats milk accorded to sick ones are detailed in Agni Purana.
(Ajyam) ( Ma tsya Purana). They live in the land of "Elephants with long trunks and heavy breathing be-
Kardama Prajapati. Their daughter Viraja is the wife long to the top class and they will possess great endu-
of Nahusa. (Srsti Khanda, Padma Purana). rance power. Those who have nails eighteen or twenty
AKARSA. People living in the land named Akarsa are in number and who became turbulent during winter
called Akarsas. (Sloka 11, Chapter 34, Sabha Parva, belong to a superior class. Those ones whose right
M.B.). tusks are a bit raised, whose cry is stentorian as that of
AKASAJANANl. Holes made on the walls of a Fort. thunder whose ears are very big and whose skins are
Bullets are sent out from the
through these holes.
fort spotted are the best of the species. Other varieties espe-
AKATHA. Son of Maiikana. He was a great devotee cially the dwarfish type and she-elephants in the early
of Siva and once when his house was burnt completely stage of pregnancy are not good and not fit to be tamed.
the idol of Siva inside his house was partially destroyed. Elephants who have Varna, Sattva, Bala, Rupa, Kanti,
Worried much over this loss Akatha was about to give Sariraguna and Vega will conquer enemies in a battle;
a portion of his body also to the flames when Siva there is no doubt about it. Elephants are an ornament
ANA ii 88 ANA ii
forany battle-array. The victory earned by a King with along with Cerupayar)to which is added Cukku, Mulaku
his elephants is more respected. and Tippali. If it is Gulma
should be given sesame
it
For all diseases of an elephant Anuvasana or Sncha- oil boiled with the following: Trikotpakkonna, Cukku,
vasti is recommended. A
bath after anointing it with Mulaku Tippali, Kotuvelikkilarigu, Nagadantiveru,
oil or ghee is good. For bkin diseases the ghee may be Erikkinveru, Natkkotpakkonna, Milk and Attittippali.
combined with Manjal ( Turmeric) Maramanjal or ,
Navara rice with sort of cerupayar can also be given.
gomutra (cow urine). If it suffers from enlargement For swellings on the face, a paste made of tender
of the belly, giving it a bath with sesame oil is good. Kuvala fruits can be rubbed at the site of the swelling.
It can be given Pancalavanas and Varunlmadya to For all sorts of pains in the stomach rice well mixed
drink. If there is fainting it must be given rice mixed with the powder made by grinding together Vlalari,
with Vlalari, Triphala, Cukku, Mulaku and Tippali Kutakappalayari, Asafoetida, Carala, Manjal, Mara-
and water mixed with honey to drink. If there is head- manjal may be given.
ache anointing the head with sesame oil and inhala- The best food for elephants is the rice of Navara, Vrlhi
tion of the same is good. and cennellu. Yava and wheat arc next to the above.
For diseases of the foot, treatment with Snehaputas is Any other food is inferior to these. Yava and sugarcane
prescribed. To get motion of the bowels Kalkan^a will give strength to elephants. Dry yava rice is not
Kasaya (infusion of sugar candy) is good. To those who good. Milk and meat cooked with carminative ingre-
have shivers should be given of peacock, the flesh dients are good for elephants who have gone lean.
Tittiri bird and Lava bird mixed with Tippali and pep- If the elephants receive great injuries in a battle the
per. For dysentery the tender fruit of Kuvala, skin of meat of birds like crow, fowl, cuckoo and Hari mixed
Paccotti, flower of Tatiri should be dried and powder- with honey is good. Fumigation by the burning of
ed and be given mixed with sugar along with rice. For chilli,fish, Vlalari, caustic soda, Puttal, Piram and
Karagraha (pain inside the trunk) Nasy am of ghee with maramanjal mixed together is effective. Dropping
Intappd mixed in it should be done. It must be given honey medicated with tippali tandula, sesame oil, and
"Muttahga Kanci with tippali, Cukku and Jiraka in fruit honey in the eyes is not only good for the eyes but
it. For Utkarnaka in the ear) flesh of pigs should is also inducive of digestion. Make an ointment with
(pain
be given. For Galagraha (pain in the neck) a liniment the faces of the birds cataka and Paravata mixed with
made of Dasamula, Mutirappuli and Kakkappancci in the burnt skin of Natpamara dissolved in light spirit.
oil should be rubbed at the site of pain and the elephant If this ointment is applied, the elephant would defeat
kept under chains. If there is difficulty in passing urine all enemies in a battle. Powder Nilotpala, Muttaiiga
light liquor containing powdered Astalavanas should and Takara and make an ointment using rice gruel.
be given. For all skin diseases use Vep oil as an oint- Applying this ointment in the eye is excellent.
ment and give the infusion of Atalotaka to drink. For If the nails grow they should be cut at least once a
worms (inside the stomach) give cow's urine with pow- month. Once in a month an oil bath is good for the
dered Vlalari in it. If the elephant is getting reduced elephants. Elephant sheds should be spread with cow-
and weak it should be given milk or meat soup with Cuk- dung discs and dust. Doing Seka with ghee during
ku, Tippali and grapes well mixed in it. If there is lack autumn and summer is advisable. (Chapter 287, Agni
of appetite to be given Mulgaudana (rice boiled
it is Purana).
1. Vlalari The
grain of Vial Vidanga (Babreng)
2. Triphala -A combination of the three fruits :
a) amalaki (Emblic Myrobalam) b) Vibhitaki (Beleric Myrobalam) and c) Haritaki (Myrobalam)
3. Gukku Sunthi (dry ginger)
4. Mulaku Raktamarica (chilli)
5. Tippali Pippali (long pepper)
6. Kuvala Vilva (Bengal Kins)
7. Paccotti Lodhra (symplocos Racemosa)
8. Tatiri Dhataki (Grislea Tomentosa)
9. Nasyam A method of introducing medicine through the nose
10. Intappu SallakI Puspa (Flower of Boswellia Thurifera)
11. Muttanga Musta (Cyperus Rotendus) Kanci means rice boiled with water and Muttanga Kanci means rice and muttaiiga boiled
together.
12. Jiraka Jiraka (cumin seeds)
13. Dasamula A combination often herbs.
14. Mutirappuh
15. Kakkappanacci Kakatindu
16. Astalavanas Eight salts like common salt, rock salt, magnesium sulphate etc.
17. Atalotaka Atarusa (Vasaka)
18. Cerupayar Mudga (green-grain)
19. Gulma
20. Trikotpakkonna Trivrt (Turbithroot)
21. Kotuvelikkilangu Gitraka (Plumbago rose)
22. Nagadantiveru Root of Nagadanti (Glancous leaved Physicnut)
23. Erikkin Veru Root of Arkka (Gigantic swallow wort)
24. Natkkotpakkonna Krsna Trivrt
25. Attittippali- Hasti-pippali
26. Navara Sastika A
kind of rice.
27. Garala Sarala (long leaved pine)
28. Manjal Haridra (Turmeric)
29. Maramanjal Darvi
30. Vrihi Cinah (A kind of paddy) (Continued)
ANAKA 89 APAGA
ANAKA. A person of the Yadava dynasty. (See under ed in the ocean all the fortresses built by him and the
place for sometime remained as a forest-land. (Dasama
ANAKADUNDUBHI. An epithet of Vasudeva, father Skandha, BhagavataKilippattu). It was after that that
of Sri Krsna. Sri Krsna made that land beautiful and called it
ANANDA. A forest on the top of the mountain Maha- Dvaraka. The country ruled over by Anartta was called
meru. was inhabited by celestial damsels, devas,
It Anarttam. During his regime there lived in his land a
gandharvas and Maharsis. (Chapter 93, Bhumi very great scholar named Vedaratha. (Umeanavrata,
Khanda, Padma Purana) . Siva Purana) See under Vedaratha.
ANANDA (CAKSUSA)! Son of Maharsi Anamitra. It ANARTTA (M). A place in ancient Bharata. Arjuna
was he who was born as Caksusa, the sixth Manu. conquered this place. (Sloka 4, Chapter 26, Sabha
There is a story behind his birth. One day, while his _ Parva, M.B.).
mother was keeping him in her lap and caressing him ANDHRA. The present Andhra Pradesa. It was famous
the baby laughed and questioned "Oh mother why are even from puranic times and it was annexed by Saha-
you caressing me, but look at those two cats. They deva by defeating its ruler in a game of dice.
consider me as their food". After some time one of the ANGARISTHA. A king of ancient Bharata. (Slokas
cats took the child away and put it in the cradle of the 13 and 14, Chapter 123, Sand Parva, M.B.) .
child of King Vikranta. Vikranta took the child as his ANGIRASAKALPA. A samhita division of Atharva-
for granted and reared him. At the time of Upanayana veda. The five samhita divisions of Atharvaveda
the King asked the boy to prostrate before his mother at written by MunjikeSa are the best. They are: The
which the boy exclaimed "Oh King, I am not your son. Naksatra Kalpa dealing with the puj a rites of the
Your son is at some other place. By births and rebirths stars; The veda Kalpa dealing with the rites associated
all of us have many mothers and so it is better to be with Brahma, the Rtvik; The Samhita Kalpa, dealing
above rebirths". After having said so much Ananda with the use and practice of Mantras; The Ahgirasa
went to the forest and started doing penance. Brahma Kalpa dealing with sorcery; and the Santi Kalpa
appeared before him and blessing him said that he dealing with matters relating to the welfare and
would become the sixth Manu and lead the world to control of animals like horses and elephants. (Chapter 6,
righteousness. By the blessing of Brahma Ananda was Arhsam 3 of Visnu Purana).
reborn as Caksusamanu. (Sec under Caksusa). (Mar-
Avery chaste wife of a Brahmin. By the
kandeya Purana). curse of Sakti, son of Vasistha Kalrnasapada, a king of
ANANDAVARDHANA. A great critic of Sanskrit litera- the Iksvaku dynasty became a demon. That demon
ture. He lived in the 9th century A.D. He expounded
killed and devoured the husband of Aiigirasi. Enraged
his theory of Dhvanivada by 120 Karikas. His own
at this the Brahmin lady cursed Kalmasapada saying
commentary of the Karikas is the book called Dhvanya- that if he touched his wife thereafter he would die.
loka. There are four parts for Dhvanyaloka and each
That was why Vasistha had to beget a son for Kal-
part is called an Udyota.
There that the Karikas were
is a belief among a few
masapada of his wife. (Slokas 16-22, Chapter 181, Adi
Parva, M.B.).
written by another scholar, Sahrdaya, and that Ananda-
vardhana had written only a commentary on it. He
ANGHRIKA. One of the sons of Visvamitra who were
Brahmavadins. (Sloka 54, Chapter 4, AnuSasana
was a member of the royal council of Avantivarma
who ruled Kashmir during the period 854-884 A.D. Parva, M.B.).
It is believed that he wrote Dhvanyaloka in 850 A.D. ANJALI. A sage who was a classmate of Saunaka.
Many commentaries have been written of Dhvanyaloka (Skandha 12, Bhagavata) .
of which the one written by Abhinavagupta is consider- ANJANA KULA. A division of elephants (in the
ed to be the best. army). (Slokas 17 and 18, Chapter 112, Drona Parva,
ANARTTA. Grandson of Vaivasvatamanu. He was a M.B.).
king, son of Saryati. ANUSASANIKA PARVA. One of the Parvans of the
1.
Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu-Brahma- Mahabharata. (See under Mahabharata') .
Marici-KaSyapa-Vivasvan
- Vaivasvatamanu -
Saryati
-
two children, Sukanya and Anartta. Sukanya. became APAGA. A sacred river. It is said that if one gives food
the wife of Cyavana. to one brahmin on the banks of this river it will be
2}0ther details. It was this king who built the fortresses equivalent to giving food to a crore of brahmins else-
at the town of Kusasthall(Dvaraka) Varuna submerg- . where. (Sloka 68, Chapter 83, Vana Parva, M.B.).
&PASTAMBA. An ancient sage. He once consoled Absolute truth, Japa, Jnana (wisdom), Niyama, Sense
King Dyumatsena. (Sloka 18, Chapter 298, Vana of Justice.
Parva, M.B.) . 5) Six qualities of noble wives. A minister in business, a
1 ) he got his name. Once a brahmin did not get
Ho jo servant-maid in action, the goddess Laksmi in appear-
a suitable man
toofficiate as priest for a sraddha cere- ance, the Earth in patience, a mother in love and a
mony. Hethen prayed to his ancestors, Visvedevas prostitute in bed.
e. Habit of
and Mah'ivisnu and then Apastamba appeared
for help 6) Six qualities of a bad u
if dispute, stealing
before him. The brahmin gave him food to his heart's of money, showing favour to strangers, scandal-monger-
content and asked him how he felt. To the surprise of ing, taking food earlier than the husband, spending
the brahmin Apastamba replied, he wanted some more most of the time in other houses.
and thus made the Sraddha ineffective. The brahmin 7) Six Vedahgas. Siksa, Kalpa, Vyakarana, Nirukta,
got angry and cursed him by sprinkling on his face Jyotisa, Chandas.
water taken in his palm. But before the water-particles ARALIKA. A mahout who could control elephants
reached his face Apastamba ordered the water-drops to that had gone mad temporarily. (Sloka 9, Chapter 2,
remain still. Water stopped stiff and still midway by Virata Parva. M.B.) .
the power of the sage. Because water (Apa) became ARAINJEYAPARVA. A sub-divisional Parva of the Maha-
stiff (Stamba) the rsi was named Apastamba. (Brahma bharata- (See under Mahabharata).
Purana) . ARCOKA. A mountain in front of the forest Saindhava
inhabited by Manisipurusas. (Sloka 16, Chapter 125,
2) How Apastamba tirtha came into existence. Once he met
Vana Parva, M.B.) .'
Agastya Muni and asked him who was superior among _
the gods Brahma, Visnu and Siva. Agastya declared ARJAVA. Son of Subala and brother of Sakuni. He
that Siva stood supreme of the lot and gave him advice
was killed by Iraviin son of Aijuna. (Bhisma Parva,
as to how please Siva. Following his instructions
to M.B.).
Apastamba did penance on the banks of the river Gau- AROCAKA(M). A country of ancient Bharata. The
tami and Siva appeared before him, blessed him, and people of place are called Arocakas. (Sloka 7,
this
made that place a holy one. Siva declared that those Chapter 51, Bhisma Parva, M.B.).
who, bathed at that place would obtain 'Divyajnana' ARSA(M). A form of marriage. Brahma is the form of
(Divine knowledge enabling one to know the past, marriage in which the bride is given to a man of good
From then onwards that place ancestry and fine character. Marriage by giving the
present and future) .
was known as Apastamba tirtha. bride after receiving a pair of cows from the bride-
groom is called Arsa. Prajapatya is the form of marriage
3 ) Other Apastamba had a very chaste and
details.
in which the bride is given to the man who asks for
humble wife named Aksasutra. Their son was Garki.
her. When the bride is given with dowry, the marriage
'Grhyasutrasarhgraha' containing a prayer and two man- is known as Asuram. Marriage with the mutual love and
tras is a contribution to the holy science by Apastamba.
consent is Glndharva. Capturing the bride after a fight
Many Hindus follow it even now. He had stated and marrying her by force is Raksasa. Marriage after
that the decrease in the number of great sages was
because of the fact that people were not deceiving the bride is called Paisaca. These are the
practising the seven types of marriage. According to the author of the
control of the senses as before.
Smrti another form of marriage known as DAIVA is
APADDHARMA PARVA. A sub-divisional Parva of the also mentioned. (Agni Purana, Chapter 154).
Mahabharata. (See under Mahabharata). ARSTISENA. A
Maharsi. In the Mahabharata, Vana
APAVAN I. Another name of sage Vasis^ha. (Sloka 5, Parva, Chapter 159 there is a reference to the Pandavas
Chapter 99, Adi Parva, M.B.). visiting this sage during their life in the forest. Ars{i-
APAVAN II. An ancient sage. Karttavlryarjuna once sena's asrama was midway between Badaiyasrama and
burnt the aSrama of and he cursed Agni and
this rsi Kubera's capital.
Karttavlryarjuna. (Slokas 42 and 43, Chapter 49, Santi Power of Tapas. In Krtayuga this sage did rigorous
tapas in Prthudakatirtha. Owing to the rigour of the
Parva, M.B.).
APODADHAUMYA. (See tapas he obtained all the chief vedas. He gave three
Ayodadhaomya).
APTA. Awell-known serpent of the KaSyapa dynasty. boons to that sacred tirtha :
vesVaratva ( having domination over everything) . ARTIMAN. A mantra which eliminates all kinds of fear.
3) Six noblsst qualities. Truth; Wisdom, Mercy, Justice, (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 50, Versus 23-26) .
ISI II. A
cobra born in the family of the serpent, ments made about Pancajanas and the existence of
Dhrtarastra. This cobra fell dead at_the Sarpasatra of special Janas like Yadavajana and Bharata Jana.
_ Janamejaya. (Slokal9, Chapter 57,
Adi Parva, M.B.) . There is no wonder why the Aryas v\ ho had to live among
ARUTjII III. A son born to Kasyapa of his wife Vinata. enemies accepted kingship. The Rgveda narrates the
(Sloka 40, Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.). difficulties people would have to encounter if they were
ARUiyi IV. A soldier of the Kaurava army. He fought left to fight their enemies without a proper leader and
against Arjuna along with Sakuni. (Sloka 122, Chap- so advocates Kingship and gives it an exalted position
ter 156, Drona Parva, M.B.) . in their social structure. Sukta 22, Anuvaka 12 of
_
ARUT^I V. One of the one hundred and eight Upanisads. Mandala 10 describes the coronation of a King thus:
ARUSl, A daughter ofManu. Cyavana Maharsi married "I do hereby crown you as King. Come to our midst.
her. They got a son named Aurva. The child was Rule us with courage and an unwavering mind. Let
taken from the thigh of Arusi. RcTka was the son of this all your subjects love you. Let thy kingdom remain
Aurva. Rclka was the father of Jamadagni, father of with you for ever". The next mantra is also of che
Parasurama. Even from childhood Aurva was a bold, same idea. A King is above punishment. The veda
bright and good boy. (Slokas 47 and 48, Chapter 66, speaks about many famous kings of which the following
Adi Parva, M.B.). are worth mentioning. Divodasa, Sud s, Ambarlsa,
ARYAS. The Rgveda gives us most of the information Nahusa and Pururavas.
regarding the Aryas who came to the north of India The chief priest was always the political advisor also.
during the times of the Vedas through the passes on Visvamitra and Vasistha were two great priests of the
that north-western side of Bharata. Sirdar K.M. Panikar Bharata dynasty. There were other priests also. Men-
writing in his preface to the 'Rgvedasarhhita' by Poet tion is there about a Rajasabha though nothing is said
Vallathol summarises the information available in the about their powers or functions. It can be surmised
Rgveda about Aryan culture and says: "When the that theSabha was constituted of only men of character
Aryans entered
first India they were rich in and learning.
cattle. They used to breed goats, dogs, donkeys, and It isinteresting to note the type of domestic life in
horses. The elephant was unknown to them. In the vogue then. A
father had the right, to sell his children,
Vedas the vehicle of Ind a is a horse and not an eleph- To cite an example is the story of SunaSsepha who was
ant. When hailing Indra they shout 'come, come on made into a cow and sold to Visvamitra who looked
your horse-back'. The Veda does not say anything after him well. The father had the right to make his
about how Indra got the elephant, Airavata, as his children lose all rights over his properties. Visvamitra
vehicle. Sing to the glory of Indra against whom in sent out from his family fifty sons who refused to obey
his chariot driven by two horses no enemy would dare him. Dowry was current then. Sukta 11, Anuvaka 3,
to face. Mandalam 10 ordains that the bride should go to the
The Rgveda gives great importance to agriculture. house of her husband after the marriage. Polygamy was
Areas under cultivation were called Urvara and not objected to. There is a mantra to harass the co-wife
'Ksetra'. Fields were ploughed by attaching six, eight and its purpose is to make the husband more attached
and even twelve bullocks to the plough. Water was taken to her who hates the co-wife. The originator of this
from hradas and Kulyakas (ponds and tanks) for the mantra was Indranl, the queen of Indra. Indra had
purpose of irrigation. Agriculture was a very familiar many wives. Marriage was considered as a necessary
art to them. They used to cultivate all sorts of grains duty. Widow marriage was allowed.
and grams including yava. They conducted trade by The Rgveda gives the picture of a society of people
the exchange of goods generally. There is a reference who were always at war with each other. "We are
ii one place of the use of a coin 'Niska' surrounded by mighty enemies. Help us". This is the
The Aryas were clever in the art of leather work, wood- slogan that rings out from the Rgveda.
work and metallurgy. They were well versed in medi- The Rgveda is a history of the Aryas. The march from
cine also. In a sukta of the ninth mandala it is stated Kubhatata (Kubul) to the banks of Yamuna is depict-
that the father of a rsi was a medical practitioner. ed there. It was at Kubhatata that the mantras were
There are references to many industries also. Weav- first made. When they reach the banks of the Ganga
ing was a very important industry at that time. Cotton the period of Rgveda ends. The crossing of each of
cloth and woollen blankets were made by them on a the five rivers of Pancanada is treated as a big event
large scale. Iron was used by them with great skill. by the rsis. When they saw the huge and deep river,
The manufacture of armours and the descriptions about Sindhu, they were amazed. The wonder is reflected in a
them in Rgveda are ample evidence of the proficiency lovely mantra. It was after crossing Sindhu that they had
of the Aryas in ironmongery and blacksmithy. Sea to oppose the 'Dasyus'. The Rgveda itself records that
voyage was not familiar to them. References to traders the Dasyus were more cultured than the Aryas. $am-
cruising in boats in the Sindhu river do not give much bara, a Dasyu King, was the ruler of a hundred cities.
importance to the cruising. In food rice and ghee were Their fortresses were strong. They have been described
important. Meat was also relished. Rsis wore animal in the Ayasi and Satabhujl.
Rgveda as Asvamayi,
skinsbut others wore dhotis and shawls. The chief opponents of the Aryas were a tribe of people
During the Rgvedic times their social structure was called Panis. From the Nirukta of Yaska we are given
divided into four stages: Grama was a colony of fami- to understand that the Panis were mainly engaged in
lies and was the nucleus of the society. A number of trade. The Rgveda names many Dasyu kings of which
gramas formed into a place called Visaya. A number the following few were more daring and brave and the
of Visayas became what was known as 'Janam'. The Aryas acknowledged their superior strength and courage :
importance of Janas can be understood by the state- Dhuni, Cumuri, Vipru, Varcis and Sambara. Among
ARYA 92 ASANA
the several divisions of the Dasyus, the Simyus, KIkatas, Klkata, Kavi, Hari, Antarlksa, Prabuddha, Pippalayana,
Sigrus and Yaksus ranked foremost in power. They are Avirhotra, Dramida, Cainasa and Karabhajana. Of these
described as having black colour and flat noses and Bharata ruled over this land and gave it the name
speaking a language different from that of the Aryas. Bharata. Brothers of Bharata ruled different parts of this
We may surmise from these facts that they belonged land. Dramida's land became known later as Dravida
to the Dravida class of people. They never conducted (Daksinabharata) .
yaga nor did they worship gods like Indra. They were ASADHA I. A Ksatriya King. He was the incarnation
idol worshippers for they have been abused as 'Sisna- of a Raksasa called Krodhavasa. Kas/apa was the son
devas'. Later the Aryas learnt from the Dasyus the of Marlci, Brahma's son. Kasyapa married Krodha-
worship of Siva, Devi and Liuga. vasa, daughter of Daksa. The Raksasa group called
Conquering these daring and cultured enemies the Krodhuvasas were the children of Krodhavasa. Many
Aryas reached the banks of the Yamuna to find to their Ksatriya kings trace their descent from this group of
pleasant surprise a radical change in themselves. The Raksasas. The names of such Ksatriya Kings are given
Bharatas settled themselves in the land between the below: Madraka, Karnavestha, Siddhartha, Klta-
Yamuna and Gaiiga and remained friendly with the kariddha, Subahu, Balhika, Kratha, Vicitra, Suratha,
Dasyus living to the east of Ganga. The Aryas who Ciravasas, Kauravya, Dantavaktra, Durjaya, Rukmi,
settled down in Pancanada were strong and to prevent Janamejaya, Asadha, Vayuvega, Bhuritejas, Ekalavya,
them from coming and conquering them Bharata tried Sumitra, Gomukha, Vatadhana, and Ksemadhurti.
to keep them remain on the other side of Sutudri (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 6, Verses 59-64).
(Sutlej) This led to a war called Dasarajna.
.
ASADHA II. Siva. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter
This war is to be considered as one of the most impor- 17,Verse 121).
tant of wars in the world. Those who opposed Sudas ASADHABHCTI. See under Pancatantra.
were Aryas though among the supporters of Sudas were ASADHA. Name of a month. By feasting in this month,
also Aryas. It was the people under Sudls who came one will have many sons and much wealth. (M.B., Anu-
out victorious in that war and put a stop to further sasana Parva, Chapter 106, Verse 26) .
conquests by the Aryas. From thereafter the Aryas ASADHA. Name of a star. After observing a fast on the
joined hands with the aborigines and laid the foundation day of this star, if curd is given to a Brahmin of noble
for the great Hindu civilization. Thereafter the Rgveda birth, one can take rebirth in a family having many
states about prayers for help to combat 'our enemies cows. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 64, Verses
of Aryas and Dasyus'. The gods who were recognised 25-26).
_
later were those who were not found in the vedas of ASADHAKA. A mahout in the Udayana story. In
the Aryas. The worship of Mahayogi and Devi found Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukhalambaka, 5th Taranga, we
in Mohenjodaro is an evidence of this change. find a reference to an elephant called Bhadravati and a
ARYA. One of the seven mothers who were present at mahout named Asadhaka in the palace of the heroine,
the birth of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 13, Chapter 228, Vasavadatta.
Vana Parva, MB.) . ASAMGA. See under ANAA.
ARYAKA. A famous serpent. (Sloka 7, Chapter 35, ASAMGAPLAYOGI. A King, who was generous by
Adi Parva, M.B. ) Aryaka is associated with Bhlmasena nature. In the Rgveda, there a reference to this King
is
in the following story. Once Duryodhana who once lost his masculinity and was transformed into
gave snake
poison in his food to Bhlmasena. Unaware Bhlma took a woman but was restored to manhood by a Muni
his food as usual and went to bathe in the river. After named Medhyatithi.
some time Bhlma became unconscious due to the effect ASANA. Posture in Yogabhyasa. There are different
of the poison and fell flat in the river. types ofasanas. The chief of them are given below:
Immediately Duryodhana bound him by ropes and put 1 ) Bhujangasana, Lying flat, face downwards on a
him in more deep waters. Bhlma reaching the bottom sheet with hands placed close to the body on either
was bitten by all the snakes there. This fortunately side. After relaxing all the muscles of the body, concen-
served as an antidote and the poison in Bhlma's body trate the mind on health. Keeping the feet close to-
was neutralized and Bhlma became his old self again gether and pressing the knees against the ground, raise
and killed all the serpents. Those serpents who escaped the soles upwards to the sky. Place both palms, pressing
went and brought their chief, Vasuki. At that time it was against the ground, touching the shoulders on both
Aryaka who advised Vasuki to give him 'rasapana'. sides. Then raise the head and bend the neck back-
(Slokas 64-68, Chapter 127, Adi Parva, M.B.) . wards as far as possible. At this time, the trunk and
ARYAKU. Another name for Durgadevi. (Chapter 12, legs should be in close contact with the ground. Gra-
Agni Purana) .
dually raise the chest, supported by the hands on the
ARYAVARTA. Another name for Bharata. There is ground. Bring the head down in the same way as it was
also a place of that name. According to Smrti the land raised and restore the body to its former position. This
lying between the Himalayas and the Vindhyas is called asana strengthens the backbone.
_ Aryavarta. (Sloka 15, Chapter 325, Sand Parva, M.B.). 2) Salabhasana. Lie flat on the sheet, face downwards.
ARYAVARTA. A king of the dynasty of Visvakarma. Keep the legs close together and raise the feet up with
Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu are Brahma, the heels touching each other. Place the hands close
Dharma, Prabhasa, Visvakarma, Priyavrata, Agnldhra, to the body on either side and close the fists upwards.
Nabhi, Rsabha and Aryavarta. Place the fists and shoulders close to the ground and
Of these Rsabhxgotof his wife Ja/antI twenty sons: make the whole body stiff after inhaling the breath.
Bharata, KuSlvarta, Ilavarti, Brahmavarta, Aryavarta Then try to raise the legs. Support the weight of the
Malaya, Ketu, Bhidrasena, Indrasprk, Vidarbha, body with the breast and hands. This is possible by
ASAVAHA I ASRAVYA
pressing the fists, firmly against the ground. Until the to study Vedas, for pilgrimage and for seeing the places.
asana completed, do not send out the breath. Keep
is The Grhastha is the only refuge and support of those
the legs straight and stiff. The lower abdomen and legs who are homeless, who do not carry their food with
may be raised slightly. This makes the asana complete. them and those who spend the night wherever they
On feeling suffocation, the legs must be brought down reach. If such people come to his house, the Grhastha
slowly. should welcome them with kind and loving words, and
Besides these, there are many other asanas like Dhanur, give them bed, seat and food. The guest who leaves a
asana, Pascimatanasana, Halasana, Mayarasana, house disappointed, is really departing after transfer-
Sarvaiigasana, Matsy asana, Sirsasana, Arddhamatsy- ring his own sins to that householder and taking away
endrasana, Padahastasana, Trikonasana, Udcjlyasana, all the virtuous deeds of the householder. It is not
Nauli, Viparltakarani, Yogamudra, Savasana, etc. (See proper for the Grhastha to treat a guest with disrespect,
under Yoga) .
to behave rudely or treacherously towards him, to regret
ASAVAHA I.A son of Kasyapa and Aditi. From Visnu what has been given to the guest, or to obstruct or
Brahma, from Brahma Marici and from Marlci Kasyapa rebuke him. The Grhastha who performs the supreme
were born. Kasyapa married Aditi. daughter of Daksa. duty of Grhasthasrama in this way properly, is liberated
Aditi gave birth to ten sons :
Brhadbhanu, Caksur- from all secular bonds and reaches the noblest worlds.
atma, Vibhavasu, Rcika, Savita, Arka, Bhanu, Asavaha, 3. Vanaprastha. After having finished all his duties in
Ravi and Vivasvan. Vaivasvata Manu was the son of this way, to his satisfaction, the Grhastha, with the
Vivasvan. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 1, Verse 42). commencement of old age, should go to the forest, either
ASAVAHA II. A prince of the Vfsni dynasty. He was after entrusting his wife to his sons or taking her also
present at the Svayariivara of Draupadi. (M.B., Adi with him. There, he should use leaves, roots and fruits
Parva, Chapter 185, Verse 19). for his food, grow hair and beard, sleep on the bare
ASRAMA. Asramites (Inmates of an Asrama)have to pass ground, lead the life of a tapasa and receive and honour
through four stages. The four stages of Brahmacarya. all classes of guests. His clothes, sheets and blankets
Garhasthya, Vanaprastha and Sannyasa are known as should be of deer-skin and darbha grass. The rule is
the four Asramas. Visnu Purana, Part III, Chapter 9 that he should bathe three times a day. Worship of gods,
describes each of the Asramas as follows :
performing homas, hospitality to all guests, mendicancy
1. Brahmacarya. "After Upanayana a boy should all these are the laudable features of Vanaprastha.
maintain a Brahmacari's vrata, engage himself in the Any oil that is available in the forest is to be used for
study of the Vedas, suppress his indriyas (the five his oil bath. Enduring heat and cold, performing tapas,
senses) and live in the house of the preceptor. Living are also his duties. The Muni who observes this rule in
there with proper observance of sauca, customs and Vanaprastha with due austerity, burns up all his evils as
vratas he should serve and attend on the Guru. The with fire and attains the eternal worlds.
study of Vedas should be with proper observance of 4. Sannyasa. The fourth AsVama is that of the Sannyasl.
Vratas and steady attention. A Brahmacari should Before entering upon the fourth Asrama one has to
worship with concentration, the Sun and Agni at the renounce the love of travel, wealth and wife and also
time of the two sandhyas (dawn and dusk) and after give up all spirit of rivalry. One who embraces sann-
that he should do obeisance to the Guru. When the Guru yasa should abandon completely the efforts for the
stands, he should also be standing. When the guru walks, three Purusarthas of Dharma, Artha and Kama, treat
he should walk behind him and when he sits, he should friends and foes alike and continue to love all living
sit in a lower position. The
Sisya (disciple-pupil) should beings. Not even a single creature should be offended
not do anything against the guru. When the guru him- by thought, word or deed. Conquering all passions,
self asks, the Sisya should sit in front of him and recite the Sannyasl should renounce all bonds and attach-
Vedas without attending to anything else. After that, ments. He should not stay in a village more than one
with his permission he may eat food which has been night and in a town more than five nights. Even that
got by begging. The Sisya may take his bath in the should be in such a way that no one feels any love or
water only after the Acarya (guru) has taken his bath hatred towards him. For sustaining life, he should go
in it. Everyday the Camata, darbha, water and flowers about begging food from the houses of the people of
which the guru needs, must be brought and supplied the three castes Brahmins, Ksatriyas and VaiSyas. It
(by the Sisya). should be after all people have taken their food and
2. Garhasthya. After the study of the Vedas the intelli- put out the cooking fire. The Sannyasl should cast
gent sisya gives Gurudaksina (Payment to the precep- away all vices like Kama, Krodha, Garva, Lobha, and
tor) and with the consent of the Guru, enters into Moha and should not have any thought of self in any-
Grhasthasrama. Then he is to marry and by earning thing. The Muni who goes about giving shelter to all
money from a suitable occupation, should fulfil all creatures will not have to fear any creature. The
obligations of a Grhastha according to his capacity. Brahmana who follows the Sannyasasrama as described
The Grhastha who worships the Pitt's with Pindadana above with a pure heart and without difficulty will
(offerings of rice balls), Devas with Yagas (sacrifices), shine like fire without fuel and attain Brahmaloka in
Rsis with Svadhyaya (self discipline), Prajapatis with peace.
begetting of children, spirits with bali (offering of food ASRAMAVASA PARVA. One of the Parvas in the
etc.) and the whole world with love, attains the holy Mahabharata. (See under Mahabharata) .
world by his own virtuous deeds. Grhasthasrama is the ASRAMAVASIKA PARVA. One of the Parvas in the
only source of support for sannyasis and brahmacarls Mahabharata. (See under Mahabharata) .
who beg their food. Therefore feeding them is an act ASRAVYA. A muni (sage) in Indra's assembly. (M.B.,
of nobility. Brahmanas travel from country to country Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 18).
ASTlKA ASTlKA
ASTlKA. The son of the Mahai si Jaratkaru and his wife, Manasadevi gave birth to a son who was a part of
alsonamed Jaratkaru. He stopped King Janamejaya's Narayana (Visnu). Since he was the son of Manasa-
Sarpasatra and saved the nagas. devI who had deep devotion to the Guru and to the
1 ) Birth. There is a story about Astlka's birth in the Gods, the boy was named Aulka.
Devi Bhagavata. Long ago the people of the world were The Mahabharata, Adi Pat va, gives another reason for
so much troubled by the serpents, that they sought pro- giving this name
to the boy. When
the sage Jaratkaru
tection from KasVapa Prajapati. To find a remedy for abandoned his wife, he had blessed her saying that the
this, Kasyapa discussed the matter with Brahma. To child in her womb
would be a brilliant and devoted
put an end to the troubles from the serpents, Brahma son. That is why this boy came be called Astika.
to
suggested that a number of mantras and a deity as the 2) Boyhood Astika was taught Veda, Vedarhgas etc.
basis of those mantras should be created. Accordingly by Parama-Siva himself. After receiving the blessings
Kasyapa created many mantras and Manasa Devi as the of Parama-Siva, Astika went to Puskara tlrtha and did
basic deity of those mantras. She is named "Manasa- tapas to Visnu for many years. Having received Visnu's
devi" because Kasyapa created her by his mental blessings also, he returned to Kailasa. After living there
power. ManasadevI has eleven other names also, name- happily with his mother for some time, one day they
lyJaratkaru, Jagatgauri, SiddhayoginI, Vaisnavi, Naga- started to the Asrama of Kasyapa Prajapati, the
bhagini, Saivi, NagesVari, Jaratkarupriya, Astikamata, father of ManasadevI. Kasyapa was very much pleased
Visahara and Mahajnanayuta. to see his noble-hearted daughter and her brilliant
ManasadevI (Jaratkaru) when quite young, went to son. To enhance the fame and accomplishments of
Kailasa for doing tapas (penance) There she did tapas
. the boy Kas/apa gave a sumptuous feast to ten crores
to Siva for a thousand years. At last Siva appeared and of Brahmins. (Devi Bhagavata, Navama Skandha) .
blessed her with divine wisdom. She returned with Vasuki was Manasadevi's brother. Astika grew up
great learning and devotion. (Devi Bhagavata, Navama there under the care of Vasuki. It was Cyavana Muni
Skandha) . who taught Samgavedas to Astika, at this time. (M.B.,
At that time, a Muni (saga) named Jaratkaru, when Adi Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 18).
travelling through the forest happened to see his pitrs 3) Astika at the Sarpasatra. Once King Parlksit, the
(souls of forefathers) hanging over a precipice at son of Abhimanyu was travelling through the forest for
the end of a blade of grass. They were hanging preca- hunting animals. He picked up a dead snake with the
riously at the end of a reed grass, head downwards, tip of his bow and put it on the shoulder of a sage
about to fall into the abyss. Jaratkaru enquired why named "Samika". Samlka's son, Srrhgi came to know
they were lying in that condition. They explained that of In his anger, Srrhgi pronounced a curse that
this.
they were in that plight because their descendant King Parlksit should die within seven days by the bite
Jaratkaru had no children. As he is a bachelor there of Taksaka. When Parlksit heard of this, he had a
is no hope either, of his
having any issue. Since he palace built on a single pillar in the middle of the
has no children, we will not get to heaven, they added. ocean, quite inaccessible to Taksaka and took shelter
To save the Pitrs from their predicament, Jaratkaru there. The most famous physicians and wizards were
decided to marry. But he wished to marry a woman engaged to ward approach of Taksaka to that
off the
who had the same name as his. Once Vasuki met place. Six dayspassed like this. On the seventh day,
Jaratkaru and told him that he had a sister named determined to make a final attempt, Taksaka disguised
Jaratkaru and that he would be very happy if Jaratkaru himself as an old Brahmana and set out to the King's
married her. Jaratkaru accepted the offer readily and place of shelter. On his way he met Dhanvantari who
married Jaratkaru. was proceeding to Parlksit to protect him. They be-
After their marriage, while they were living together came friends and as a result of it, Dhanvantari returned
in a place called Pus'cara tlrtha, an unexpected event after receiving a large number of rare precious stones
happened which interrupted the happy course of their given to him by Taksaka. Assuming the form of a small
life. One evening, the husband was sleeping with his worm, Taksaka secretly entered into a fruit which was
head in the wife's lap, under a tree. The sun was about to be presented to the King. As soon as the King took
to set. As the Maharsi did not wake up before sunset, the that fruit in his hand, Taksaka took his own shape
wife became anxious. It is believed that he who does not and size and bit the King who died immediately.
wake up before sunrise and he who does not offer pray- Janamejaya was the son of this King Parlksit.
ers at dusk will be guilty of the sin of Brahmahatya (kill- Janamejaya performed all the obsequies of his father.
ing a Brahmin) Nor was it proper to wake him up from
. After that, in a spirit of revenge, with the object of
a sound sleep. But in the end, she did wake him up. annihilating the whole race of serpents, he summoned
The husband sprang up in great fury. He renounced Brahmanas to conduct a sarpa satra (snake sacrifice).
the wife then and there. Weeping bitterly, she begged In the sacrificial fire specially prepared at that yaga,
for his forgiveness. At last Jaratkaru relented and many serpents were being burnt up. It seemed that the
told her "You will have a very noble, brilliant, re-
: whole race of serpents would shortly be wiped out.
nowned, virtuous, scholarly and devout son who will be But Taksaka alone was not to be seen. The officiating
a devotee of Visnu and a preserver of the family". priestswere beginning to get angry. Impatient cries
After this ManasadevI set out to Kailasa. When she of Where is Taksaka rent the air. The frightened
reached there Parami-Siva and Parvati comforted her. Taksaka fled for life to the palace of his friend Indra
ManasadevI was pregnant. The precepts and spiritual and there lay down, curling round Indra's cot. When
advice given by Jaratkaru, Parama-Siva and Parvati the priests understood this they decided to use their
were haard by the child in the wjmb and so even before charms and mantras which would bring Indra, his bed,
his birth he became a Jftanl and a yogi. In due course cot and all, along with Taksaka to the sacrificial fire.
ASTlKA PARVA 95
AYAVASA
At gods rushed to Manasadevi and
this stage, all the
sons, Sis{i, Bhava and Sambhu. Sisti got five sons, Ripu
fell at her feet and
begged her to save the situation. Ripunjaya, Sipra, Vi'kala and Vrkatejas. Caksusa was,
The kindheartcd Devi called her son Astlka and advis- born to Ripu of his wife Brhati. Manu was born to
ed him to persuade Janamejaya to stop the sarpa- Caksusa of his wife Vlram. Urn was the son of Manu.
satra. Astlka went to Janamejaya and requested him Uru of
got Sumanas, Svati, Kratu,
Atreyi Aiiga,
to give him the lives of Taksaka and Indra as a gift.
Aiigiras and Gaya. (Chapter 18, Agni Purana).
Janamejaya, after consulting the munis and priests ATRliYl II. A river. (Sloka 22, Chapter 9, Sabha
and at their advice, agreed to do so. In this way, the Parva, M.B.) .
Sarpasatra was stopped and the remaining serpents ATREYl III. Anasuya, wife of Atri is also called
escaped with their lives. (Devi Bhagavata, Navama Atrcyl.
Skandha, M.B., Adi Parva). ATREYl IV. Daughter of Maharsi Atri. She was married
ASTlKA PARVA. One of the Parvas in the Maha- to Ahgiras, son of
Agni. Aiigiras always spoke rudely to
bharata. See Mahabharata. her and pained at this she once
ASURAM. A form of marriage. (See VIVAHA). approached her father
and told him about this. Her father told her thus
ASURAYA> A. A son of Visvamitra. (M.B., Anusasana
T
spiritual enlightenment from his wife, Kapila. (M.B., AVAHA. A Vayu. (M.B'., Santi Parva, Chapter 328
Sand Parva, Chapter 218, Verses 10-14). Verse 37) .
Verse 72).
AVARTANANDA. A sacred Tlrtha. One who bathes in
ATHARVAVA. A sage. When Arjuna dreamed of go- this tirtha will be able to
enjoy life in Nandanavana.
ing to Siva accompanied by Ki'sna they visited in the
(M.B., Anuslsana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 45).
dream the asVama of this sage also. AVASlRA. A place in ancient India. It is said that
ATMADEVA. See under Gokarna. Kama conquered this place. (M.B., Vana Parva
ATREYA. A sage. This sage had acquired the power
to go from one planet to another. Once this rsi went
Chapter 254, Verse 9) .
conducted when the Pandavas and Kauravas finished 1) This Rajarsi was an adept in the art of yajna. He
them that he would take them later to Hastinapura, he BAHU I. A king of the Surya-varhsa (solar dynasty) . He
left the place. was the father of Sagara. He is known by the name
2) His fate own father. It was by a ruse that
to kill his Subahualso. This king was once defeated in a battle and
fall. Arjuna put Sikhandi before being weary and sad he entered the hermitage of Aurva.
Arjuna made Bhisma
his chariot and Bhisma refused to take arms against a His queen was given poison by another wife of the
eunuch and accepted defeat. But Gaiigadevi witnessing King. But the child in her womb did not die. The queen
the battle between Bhisma, her son, and Arjuna from wanted to jump into the fire in which the body of her
above could not bear this foul play and so cursed that husband was to be burned. But Aurva told her that her
Arjuna would die at the hands of his son. Ulupi the son would become a famous king and that she should
serpent wife of Arjuna heard this curse and went to her not commit suicide. Thus she desisted from
committing
father Kauravya who in turn went to Gaiiga and begged suicide. A son was born to her. As she had been
poison-
for a relief from the curse. Gaiigadevi then said that ed when the child was in her womb the son was
given
Arjuna would be killed by Babhruvahana but would be the name Sagara (with poison) It is said in Maha-
.
brought to life by Ulupi by placing the Mftasanjlvani bharata, Adi Parva that this prince became a famous
stone on the dead man's breast. king later.
3) The killing of Arjuna. The Mahabharata battle was BAHU II. Mention is made in Mahabharata, Udyoga
over. When Yudhisthira was performing the Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 22, that the Pandava's thought
yaga Arjuna conducted a victory march with the yaga of sending an invitation to a king named Bahu for the
horse. On his way he reached Manalur. At once Ulupi between the Kurus and themselves.
battle
calledBabhruvahana and asked him to challenge Arjuna. BAHU III.A king of the Sundara dynasty. Mention is
Babhruvahana with his bow and arrows attacked Arjuna made about this king in Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva
and in the grim battle that followed Arjuna fell dead. Chapter 74.
Seeing this Citraiigada came to the place of battle BAHUBHA.RYATVA. (Polygamy). Polygamy was a
weeping and abused Ulupi for persuading Babhruvahana custom in vogue in ancient India. It was not prohibit-
to kill his own father. Ulupi immediately went to the ed for a man to have more than one wife. It was
serpent world and brought the Mrtasanjivani stone and customary to give dowry also. It is said in the Rgveda,
as she placed it on Arjuna's breast he came to life as if Mandala 10, Anuvaka 3, Sukta 1 1 that the bride should
waking up from a sleep. When he saw Citrarigada, proceed to the house of the husband, after the marriage.
Babhruvahana and Ulupi he smiled and asked them A spell (mantra) meant for keeping down one's co-wife,
why they had all come there. Ulupi then explained to is seen in the
Rgveda, Mandala 10, Anuvaka 11, Sukta
him the story of the curse and extremely pleased over 17. It is a prayer to destroy the love of husband for a
the end of the curse Arjuna took them all to Hastina- co-wife and to direct that love towards oneself. The
pura. (Chapters 218 to 210 of Adi Parva and Chapters deity of this spell is Indrani the wife of Indra who was
79 to 82 of Asvamedha Pawa, M.B.). a polygamist. In those days marriage was an essential
4) Other details. (1 ) On reaching Hastinapura Sri Krsna duty. Widow marriage was not forbidden.
gave Babhruvahana as a present a chariot drawn by BAHUDA. A holy bath. If one stays in this place for a
divine horses. (Sloka 6, Chapter 88, AsVamedha night in celibacy and fast, one will get the fruits of
Parva, M.B.) .
performing a sacrifice to devas (gods). The modern
(2) The diffeient names given to him in the Puranas are investigators say that this place is on the bank of river
as follows Citrangadasuta, Manippurpati, Dhananjaya-
: Dhavala which flows near Avadhi. It is mentioned in
suta and Manipuresvara. Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 23 that the hermit
BADARIKASRAMA. (BAD ARYASRAMA )
. A very Likhita had recovered his lost hand, by bathing in this
holy place in the Himalayas. It was here that Nara and holy place and giving oblations to his ancestors.
Narayana did penance for thousands of years and the BAHUDAMA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B.,
Puranas, therefore, give it a very prominent place in Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 10).
them. BAHUDANTAKA. A book on the science of Ethics (Niti-
BADARlPACANA TlRTHA. (BADARAPACANA). A astra) the work of Brahma. It contains ten thousand
,
sacred place in Kuruksetra. If one lives here fasting for chapters. This book was abridged into five thousand
twelve years eating dates only, one will become as chapters by Purandara. (M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter 69,
great as Vasistha. (Chapter 83,'Vana Parva, M.B.). Stanza 83).
BADARlVANA. A
sacred place. ViSalapurl an ancient BAHUDANTl. Mother of Purandara who was the Indra
city of puranic fame is near this place. The Badarik- during the Manvantara (Period of a Manu ) of Manu
asYama comprises Badarivana and Visalapurl also. Vaivasvata. (See the word Purandara).
BADAVAGNI. See under Aurva. BAHUDASUYAS" A. The wife of Pariksit, a King of the
BADHIRA. A serpent of the Kasyapa dynasty. (There Kuru dynasty. A
son named Bhlmasena was born to her
is a reference to this serpent in Sloka 16, (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 95).
Chapter 74,
Udyoga Parva. M.B.) . BAHUGAVA. A king born of the family of Yayati.
BADULI. A son of Visvamitra. He was a follower of (Bhagavata, Skandha 9 ) .
BAHUKA III. A
mighty hero of the family
of the BAHYAKU.NDA. A serpent born in the family of Kas-
\ rsiiis About this Bahuka, mention is made
in Maha- yapa Prajapati. Mention is made about this serpent in
Vana Parva, Chapter 129, Stanza 19. Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103.
bhafata,
BAHULA I. A river. In Mahabharata, Bhisma Parva, BAHYASVAN. A king of the Puru dynasty. He was the
Stanza mention is made about this river son of King Purujati. Five sons were born to Bahyas-
Chapter 9, 29,
van called Mukula, Srnjaya, Brhadistha, Yavinara and
which is famous in the Puranas.
Krtnila. These five sons became famous as Pancalas.
BAHULA II. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B., Of Mukula became the Mauku-
these, the family of
Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 3).
BAHULA HI. Wife of Vidura a Brahmin, who frequented who were having temples and were of two classes.
lyas,
A Bharata. the demon in this cave. Days went by like that and
BAHURATHA. king of the family of
one day the turn came to the brahmin who was shelter-
(Bhagavata, Skandha 9) .
'
BAKA II. A demon. As young boys Sri Krsna and
Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 9). Balaramabhadra were once playing in Ambadi (Goku-
BAHV\Sl. One of the hundred sons of Dhr'tarastra. It on the banks of the river Yamuna when the
is mentioned in Mahabharata,
Bhisma Parva, Chapter la) (
Parva, M.B.) .
marriage of DevakI with Vasudeva was celebrated but
BALA VII. A sanatana Visvadeva. (Sloka 30, Chapter on the same day an Asaririm (a heavenly voice from
91, Anusasana Parva, M.B.) .
above) said that the eighth child of DevakI would
BALA VIII. A parsada of Visnu. When Vamana trampl- kill Kamsa.
Instantly Karhsa put both Vasudeva and
ed over the head of emperor Bali and sent him to Devaki in jail. The first six sons born to Devaki were
the underworld, the followers of Bali ascended the killed the moment they were born by striking them
yajna mandala and created a commotion. Bala was against the ground. Devaki became pregnant for the
one of the parsadas who then came to the scene to seventh time. The babe in the womb was Ananta in-
quell the trouble. (Astama Skandha, Bhagavata) . carnate by Visnu 's directive to be of help to him when
BALA IX. A
son of Mayasura. He lived in a place in he would also be born soon as Krsna. Therefore it
the netherlands called Atala. He created was necessary to save the child from the cruel hands
ninetysix
different kinds of magic and
gave them to the asura of Karhsa as it was certain he would kill the babe the
magicians who by the use of them gave the devas same way he had killed all the others before. So he
immense trouble. ordered Mayadevi to take the child from the womb of
Once when Balasura yawned three bad women, Svairim, DevakI and place it in that of RohinI, another wife of
KaminI and PumscalT were born. They had with them Vasudeva. Mayadevi did so and the boy got the name
a potable substance called Hataka which
they gave to Samgharsana, also because of this. The news spread
men whom they liked and after enlivening the sex that DevakI aborted. RohinI delivered a boy and was
impulse in them enjoyed a sexual life with them to named Samgharsana alias Balabhadrarama. (Dasama
their heart's content. Pancama Skandha, Bhagavata)
( .
Skandha, Bhagavata) .
Balabhadra became white and Sri Krsna black. (Chap- 6) A pilgrimage. When
the great Pandava-Kaurava
ter 199, Adi Parva, M.B.). battle started Krsna became the charioteer of Arjuna
and Balarama went to the forest, Naimisa. He was not
3) Brothers. Balabhadrarama had six brothers born of
his mother Rohi^I. They were Gada, Sarana, Durd-
:
much interested in the battle. At the forest of Naimisa
he saw Suta telling Puranic stories to the several sages
dama, Vipula, Dhruva, and Krta. (Navama Skandha,
assembled there before him. Suta did not rise up when
Bhagavata) .
Kariisa conducted a Capapuja (worship of the bow) to 7) Death. Once the rsis Narada, Kanva and Visva-
kill Krsna. It was on a festive scale and both Krsna and mitra came to Dvaraka. To make fun of them some of
Balarama went to Madhura to attend the same. There the Yadavas dressed a Yadava like a pregnant woman
they killed Kariisa and after that went to the aSrama and producing her before the sages asked them what
of Sandipani Maharsi for education. When they complet- child she would deliver. Enraged at this the munis
ed their education they at the request of the preceptor said in one voice that she would deliver a mace and that
gave as Gurudaksina (The fee you pay in the end for iron mace would be the cause of the end of all
the instructions given) the lost child of the guru. Then Yadavas.
they went to Madhura and there several events took After the Mahabhiirata battle the Yadava dynasty re-
place, important among which was the fight between mained alive only for thirtysix years. After that by
Kfsna and Jarasandha. By this time the Yadavas the curse of the brahmin the Yadavas were all killed in
were becoming lean financially and so to make some a drunken brawl between themselves in the very pre-
money Krsna and Rama went to the diamond-infested sence of Krsna and Balabhadra. This happened on the
mountain of Gomantaka. On their way they met shore of Prabhasa tlrtha and Balarama was sitting
ParaSurama doing penance under a Banyan tree. On there then in deep meditation. Suddenly the soul of
the advice of Parasurama they killed Srgalavasudeva Balarama went out from his mouth in the shape of a
and got immense wealth. On their return Rama and white serpent and the serpent entering the nether world
Ki'sna along with many Yadavas went and settled down was given a warm welcome by the prominent serpents
in the island, Dvaraka, in the western ocean. (Dasama there. (Mausala Parva, M.B. ).
Skandha, Bhagavata) .
8) Other details.
5 ) Marriage. Before the advent of Balarama and Krsna (1) It was Balabhadrarama who taught Bhimasena the
the island Dvaraka was known as KuSasthall. It was mace-fight. (Sloka 4, Chapter 138, Adi Parva, M.B.)
.
ruled over by a famous Rajarsi, Revata. This king was (2) Balabhadrarama
was present along with Sri Krsna
the son of King Anartta and grandson of emperor at the marriage of Pancall. (Sloka 1 7, Chapter 185,
accompanied him. There stupefied he saw Vedas, Yajnas, conducted at the city of Upaplavya. (Sloka 21, Chapter
mountains, rivers, oceans, Rtus, all in divine figures 72, Virata Parva, M.B.) .
standing before Brahma, worshipping him. The sweet (5 ) very insistent that the Panda vas and Kau-
He was
celestial songs gave them both untold happiness. He ravas should come to a truce. ( Chapter 2 Udyoga ;
then told Brahma the purpose of his visit and Brahma Parva, M.B.).
(6) He witnessed the battle of maces
between Duryo-
meditating for some time told him that Balabhadrarama,
son of Vasudeva, was the only one person suited for dhana and Bhimasena at Kuruksetra. (Chapter 34,
her. The king returned to Dvaraka and gave his Salya Parva, M.B.).
BALABHADRARAMA II lol BALAKHILYA(S) (VALAKHILYAS)
(7) Balarama conducted a pilgrim tour and visited all It was a peculiar creature. That creature had done
the holy places of Bharata at a time when the Pandava- penance before Brahma, from its young age with the view
Kaurava war was in full swing. (Chapter, 35-54, Salya of destroying everything. Brahma appeared before the
Parva, M.B.) . creature and granted it the boon that it would have the
(8) Balarama was of opinion that it was unjust ofBhima- power to make anything blind. Brahma also said that
sena to have killed Duryodhana and was about to kill anybody who killed the creature would be given a place
Bhimasena. (Sloka 4, Chapter 60, Salya Parva, M.B.) . in the realm of Gods. The creature had been wandering
(9) Once Balarama spoke in extolling terms about the in the forest making blind every creature it met, and
secrets of Dharma. (Sloka 17, Chapters 126, Salya one day it was drinking water and it was then that
Parva, M.B.). Valaka shot it down. As soon as the creature fell down
(10) It was Balarama who performed the obsequies of the gods showered flowers, and took him to the realm
Abhimanyu. (Sloka 6, Chapter 62, Asvamedha Parva, of Gods in a divine chariot. (M.B., Karna Parva,
M.B.). Chapter 69) .
(Sloka 10, Chapter 221, Sand Parva, M.B.) . BALAKHILYA(S). (VALAKHILYAS). A group of
BALANDHARA. A daughter of the king of Kasl. Let hermits.
the mightiest of men marry her, said her father. Defeating 1) Origin.Sixty thousand hermits were born to Kratu,
all the kings who tried to take her Bhimasena married one of the Saptarsis (seven hermits), by his wife,
her and SarvaSa was the son born to Bhimasena of Santati.* They are called Balakhilyas. Everyone of
Balandhara. (Sloka 70, Chapter 95, Asvamedha Parva, them was only the size of half a thumb, but they were
M.B.). as bright as the blazing sun and had attained control
BALADHI. An ancient hermit. He was He over their senses. (Visnu Purana, Amsa 1, Chapter 10).
powerful.
performed a severe penance for getting sons. The 2) Garuda (Eagle) and Bdlakhilya(s). A story connect-
Devatas appeared and granted him a boon. Accordingly ing the birth of Garuda with Balakhilyas occurs in
a son called Medhavin was born to him. Once Medhavin the Puranas.
teased the great hermit Dhanusaksa, who cursed him to Once Kasyapa Prajapati performed a sacrifice to
death. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 135). obtain children. The work of bringing firewood for
BALAHAKA I. (VALAHAKA) A serpent famous in .
the sacrifice was entrusted to Indra and the other
the Puranas. This serpent stays the durbar hall of devas (Gods) and the Balakhilyas. When Indra was
Varuna, worshipping him. (M.B., Sabha Parva, heaping up on heaps pieces of big logs the Balakhilyas
Chapter 9, Stanza 9) .
who were very small were bringing in chips of
BALAHAKA A wood. Seeing this Indra laughed. The Balakhilyas
II. (VALAHAKA) . brother of Jaya-
dratha the King of Sindhu. He helped Jayadratha in got angry and stopping the work entrusted to them
kidnapping Draupadi. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter began to do penance with a view to create an-
265, Stanza 12). other Indra. Knowing this Indra was much flurried.
BALAHAKA III. (VALAHAKA) A . famous horse yoked He went to Kasyapa and told him everything. Kasyapa
on the right side of the chariot of Sri Krsna. Mention went to the Balakhilyas and pacified them. At this time
is made about this horse in
M.B., Virata Parva, Chapter Vinata, a wife of Kasyapa, was doing penance to
45, Stanza 23. obtain a son. Kasyapa said that the penance of the
BALAHAKA IV. A
king. Once Siva gave this king a Balakhilyas would not be fruitless and that as a result
vision of him in the shape of a cow-calf. After that in of their penance a son who would overpower Indra
the place where Siva appeared as calf a
Sivalihga
would be born to Vinata. Accordingly a son was born
arose. It began to grow to the extent of an atom to her. Garuda was that son. The fact that Garuda
daily.
But the growth ceased, when an outcaste who became overthrew Indra when he went to heaven for ambrosia,
so by Karma is well known. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 31).
(action) visited it. Purana (Skandha
3-2-27) 3) Routine of life. The Balakhilyas live in themandala
.
BALAKA (VALAKA). A forester. This forester used to of Surya (solar region). They travel in front of the sun
go hunting and he gave everything he got to his old
for in the shape of birds. They wear hides of animals. They
parents without reserving anything for himself. One are righteous and are only as big as a thumb. They are
day he did not find any animal even though he had very ardent in doing the works of devas ( Gods) They .
made a thorough search in the forest. He was much are sinless. There are Balakhilyas living in the lunar
worried. At last he reached the bank of a river. He region also. They worship the Sun daily. All the world
saw an extraordinary animal drinking water. He had stand firm in truth because of the penance of the
never seen such an animal before.
Balakhilyas. (M.B., Anusasana Parva, Chapter 141.).
branch was broken. Feiring the curse form them he took 15ALAMODAKA. The son of Suratha, the King of
the branch in his beak and flew about here and there.
At last, according to the advice of Kundalanagarl. (Padma Purana, Chapter 40).
Kasyapa, he took the BALANlKA (VALANlKA) I.' A son of the King
branch to the mount Gandhamadana and without caus-
Drupada. Mention is made in Mahabharata, Drona
ing any harm to the small hermits placed it there Parva, Chapter 156, that Asvatthama killed him in the
(M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 30). battle of Kuruksetra.
(2) When Dusyanta entered the hermitage of Kanva BALANlKA (VALANlKA) II. A brother of Matsya,
he saw the Balakhilyas doing panance,
hanging down the King of Virata.
During the battle of Kuruksetra
on the trees in the vicinity. (M.B., Adi he had taken the side of the Pandavas and had
Parva, Chap- fought
ter 7).
against the Kauravas. (M.B., Drona Parva, Chapter
(3) In Valmlki Ramayana,
Balakanda, Sarga 51, it 158).
ismentioned that the Balakhilyas were
engaged in BALASVAMl. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B., <Jalya
prayer and meditations and oblations to fire
offering
in the Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 74)
hermitage of Vasistha.
.
he became arrogant. Because of this some called him there was a Brahmin named Rudra Sarma.
Long ago
Di'ptabalaki. He had two wives. Both gave birth to a son each. The
Once the hermit went to the King of KasI and told him elder wife died and her son also was
that he would impart to him the brought up by the
knowledge of Brahma. younger wife. Being jealous she fed the child with food
The king replied that he would too hard for the child and it became lean with stomach
give thousand cows in
return. Balaki declared that the swollen and the bones
sun-god was Brahma. projecting. It looked an uncouth
The king said that he had known it.
Everything that figure. Seeing him like this Rudra Sarma called him Bala-
Balaki said had been known to the vinastaka (one who is lost when he is a
So, in the end Balaki had to become the
king earlier. boy). He
disciple of the gradually grew up. When he was only five years old he
King. Then the King took him to a man who was sleep- showed extraordinary intelligence. One
day he decided
ing. The King called the sleeping man. But he did not to teach his foster-mother a lesson. On that
wake up. The King woke him day he was
up and then asked the sitting alone on the lap of his father. He said to his
hermit, where he had gone when he was father, "Father, I have two fathers". Thenceforward the
sleeping. Balaki
could not say where men
go when they are sleeping father began to doubt his
wife, that she was having a
and where they return from when lover. He grew jealous. He would not talk to her. The
they wake up. The foster-
king said "In our sleep we attain 'Sarupya' (assimila- mother thought Balavinastaka was the cause for this
tion to god) .But we are not aware of it. change in her husband's behaviour. One day she called
we get eternal bliss we do not know it. If we Though
can get the boy to her
eternal bliss when we
mildly and asked him for the reason for
keep awake that is 'Atmajnana' the change in the behaviour of his father towards her.
(knowledge of Supreme Soul) As the flames emanate
. He said that he would bring about a
from fire, and as the spider weaves its net and sits in change in the beha-
its viour of his father if he would be cared for
centre, the soul creates everything, controls properly.
everything She agreed. Then he took a mirror and held it before
r vades
DAT P^ A everything."
An ancient kin(Brhadaranyakopanisad)
. his father and when the reflection of his father fell
in
D j- g of Bharata. While the the mirror he said, "Father, I have two fathers".
Imme-
Pandavaswere living incognito in the kingdom of Virata diately the doubt of his father was removed. It is not
Duryodhana and his brothers stole the cows of Virata right to make even a boy angry.
in consequence of which there was a
battle. The devas BALAYANI. An
(gods) came in planes to see the fight between Arjuna
acarya (Teacher). In Bhagavata,
S<andha 10, seen that Balayani was
it is
and the teacher Krpa. It is mentioned in the Maha- taught Bala-
khilya samhita by Baskala.
BALAYOGl 103 BALI (MAHABALI) I
BALAYOGl. A king of the Anga dynasty. He was the ocean. It was impossible to churn the ocean without
son of Bali, who had six sons named Ariga, Vahga, the help of Mahabali. So the devas went to Mahabali
Kalhiga, Pundra, Baleya and Balayogi. (Agni Purana, and sought his help. Mahabali agreed to help them.
Chapter 2 7 7)'. The real aim of the devas was not to regain the lost
BALAYUS. One of the eight sons born to Pururavas by wealth but to obtain the celestial nectar known as Nectar
Urvasi. (Padma Purana, Si'sti, Chapter 12). of Immortality (Amrta) and to defeat the Asuras in
BALHlKA. (BALHIKA) I. A powerful king born in battle. On the side of the Asuras there was the know-
the family of Ahara. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 67, ledge of the Mr tasafijivani (life-restoring remedy) So .
Stanza 25) . the dead were being brought to life. But it was not
BALHlKA II. A king who in his previous life was the possible for devas to do so. It was to make up this
asura called Krodhavasa. It is mentioned in Maha- deficiency, by obtaining Ambrosia from the sea, that
bharata, Drona Parva, Chapter 96, Stanza 12, that the devas tried to churn the sea, under the pretence of
this King helped the Kauravas in the battle of Kuruk- recovering the lost wealth. Mention is made in the
setra. Visnu Purana, Arhsa 1, Chapter 9 and Matsya Purana,
BALHlKA III. A kingwhowas the third son of Janame- Chapters 250 and 251 that these events took place
of King Kuru. (M.B., Adi Parva, during the regime of the Indra named Mantradruma in
jaya and the grandson
Chapter 94, Stanza 56). the Caksusamanvantara (the period of the manu named
BALHlKA IV. A son of Pratipa, a King of the Kuru Caksusa).
dynasty. He had two brothers, Devapi and Santanu. It 3) War with Indra. The great teacher Sukra again
is Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 94 that
said in anointed Bali, who was brought to life again, as Indra.
Sunanda, the princess of the country of Sibi was their After that he performed the sacrifice of Visvajit (con-
mother. Mention is made in Bhagavata, Skandha 9, queror of the world) on behalf of Bali. Assuming the
Balhlka had a son responsibilities of government, Bali performed one
Chapter 22, Stanza 18 that this king
named Somadatta. Balhlka was a friend of the Kauravas hundred Asvamcdha yagas (Horse sacrifices) (Bhaga-
and the Pandavas. Balhika exhorted them strongly, not vata, Skandha 8) .
to engage in a battle. Still, when the battle was begun, After the Visvajit sacrifice, Yajnadeva (god of sacrifice)
Balhika sided with the Kauravas. Balhika was once who was greatly pleased at the sacrifice, presented Bali
elected as the general of eleven divisions of the army with a divine chariot, equal in all aspects to that of
of Duryodhana. Indra, a golden bow, two quivers, which would never
The achievements ofBalhlka in the battle of Kuruksetra become empty and a divine armour, and his grand-
are given below : father gave him a garland that would never fade, and
1) There was a combat on the first day of the battle the teacher Sukra gave him a divine conch, and Brahma
between Balhlka and Dhrstaketu. (M.B., Bhlsma Parva, presented a garland. (M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter 216) .
the sons born, of his wife Diti, to Kasyapa Prajapati, son According to the version of Bhagavata, Prahlada when
of Marici and grandson of Brahma. There were so he grew old, left his kingdom in the hands of his son
many Asuras born as the sons of Diti. But among them Virocana and went to the forest for penance. Virocana
Hiranyaksa, Hiranyakasipu, Surapadma, Sirhhavaktra, was not as famous as Prahlada. After the period of
Tarakasura and Gomukha were notorious. Of their Virocana, Mahabali came to the throne. He was a
sisters Sirhhika and Ajamukhl were famous. mighty king. Within a short time he became the emperor
Four sons called Prahlada, Sarhhrada, Hrada and of the Asuras. It was during this period that the churn-
Anuhrada were born to Hiranyakasipu. Virocana was ing of the Milk Sea took place. The Asuras and the
the son of Prahlada and Mahabali was the son of Viro- Devas (gods) sat on either side and using the mount
cana. Bana was born from Mahabali and four crores of Mandara as churn-drill, churned the Milk Sea and
Asuras called Niviitakavacas were born from Bana. obtained Amrta (the celestial nectar of immortality).
2) The churning of the ocean. Once Mahlbali had stolen A battle took place between the Asuras and the Devas
the wealth of Devendra. While he was carrying it to for the possession of Amrtakalasa (the Ambrosia and
his .house, it all fell in the ocean. Mahavisnu ordered the container) and the emperor Mahabali was killed in
the devas (gods) to recover the lost wealth from the the battle. The Asuras carried the dead body of Maha.
BALI (MAHABALI) I 104 BALI III
ball to his capital, where Sukracarya (their teacher-pri- began to attack Vamana with anything
horrified at this,
est Sukra) brought him to life again by the help of sacred they could lay hands on. Still Vamana was growing.
herbs. Mahabali instantly waged another war, fiercer Finally he became an immensely large being. With
than the previous ones, with the devas, and having one step he measured the whole of earth and with the
defeated them, he drove them out of their realm and second step he took the whole of heaven. Then he
brought it under control. (Bhagavata, Skandha 8). asked Bali, where to place the third step. Mahabali
5) The curse of Prahldda. As the whole of heaven came said that he had only his body left, as his own, and
under the sway of Bali, the devas began to leave the thatVamana might take it and complete three steps.
country one by one. Everybody was happy and comfort- Vamana placed his foot on the head of Bali and pushed
able under the rule of Bali. But the devas and Brah- him down to Patala (the Netherworld) Thencefor- .
manas were denied the privileges they deserved. They ward the asuras became the inhabitants of Patala.
approached Visnu and represented their grievances. (Bhagavata, Skandha 8).
Visnu told them thus "Bali is devoted to me. Still, to
:
7) Bali and Ravana. Once Ravana visited Bali who
redress your grievances I shall take the incarnation of was under custody in Patala, and said to him, "I have
Vamana shortly." come to save you from here. So get yourself free from
In course of time the Asuras and their countries began the custody of Mahavisnu, with my help." Hearing
to be weakened. Seeing the approach of destruction this, Bali asked Ravana to fetch the two earrings of
emperor Bali became thoughtful. He approached Hiranyakaisipu, which were shining like blazing fire
Prahlada to learn the reason. Prahlada told Bali thus : a little away from them. Ravana moved forward to
"Lord Visnu is now staying in the womb of Aditi for his take them. But he fell unconscious. Bali caused him to
incarnation as Vamana. That is why the country and recover and said: "These earrings were worn by my
the Asuras are subjected to destruction. Hearing this great grandfather Hiranyakasipu. How could you,
Mahabali said: ''Our Riiksasas are more powerful who are not even capable of taking his earrings, save
than that Visnu." Hearing these haughty words of me from his slayer, Visnu? Visnu is Almighty and
Bali, Prahlada got angry and cursed Bali ''Let your All-powerful and Supreme Lord of everything." Hear-
country be destroyed." Bali requested Prahlada to ing this, Ravana was filled with shame and he returned.
pardon him. Prahlada advised Bali "You will get sal- (Valmiki Ramayana, Uttara Kanda, Praksipta Sarga) .
Aditi became pregnant and gave birth to the son (3) From his childhood Mahabali was a hater of the
Vamana. He was an incarnation of Mahavisnu. [The Brahmanas. (M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter 90, Stanza
5th incarnation (avatara) of Visnu]. 24).
At this time Mahabali was performing a sacrifice on the (4) Once Mahabali was engaged in a serious contest
bank of the river Narmada. Vamana came to the place of with Indra. (M.B., Sand Parva, Chapter 223).
sacrifice in the dress of a hermit boy and told Mahabali (5) After having lost his kingdom Mahabali ridiculed
that he was a help less hermit boy and requested that Indra in various ways. (M.B., Santi Parva, Chapter
he might be given three steps of ground. Mahabali 225, Stanza 30) .
was pleased with the boy and told him that he was (6) Once Mahabali talked with Sukracarya about
willing to give the boy even the country called Bhrnga- giving gifts of flower, smoke and light. (M.B., Anu-
raka and that he was prepared to forego the kingly sasana Parva, Chapter 98, Stanza 15).
pleasures for the boy. The hermit boy did not show any (7) Laksml Devi had forsaken Mahabali because he
desire for them. So many gathered round them to behaved haughtily towards Brahmanas. (M.B., Santi
witness this sight. The teacher Sukracarya called Maha- Parva, Chapters 216-218) .
bali and said that the boy was a cheat and that his (8) In the religious Books such as Yogavasistha the
request should not be granted. But Mahabali decided story of Mahabali is given to illustrate disinterestedness
to grant the wish of the boy and as a token of his gift (Anasakti).
he began to offer the boy water from a waterpot. Then BALI II. A hermit. It is mentioned in the Mahabharata,
the teacher got into the mouth of the pot in the shape Sabha Parva, Chapter 4,Stanza 10, that this hermit
of a mote and water would not flow freely out of the lived in Hasdnapura.
mouth of the pot. Knowing this Vamana took a grass BALI An incarnation of Siva. Siva incarnated in
III.
of Darbha and pushed it at the mouth of the pot. The the hermitage of the Balakhilyas in the mount of
grass pierced one eye of Sukracarya. From that time Gandhamadana during the period of Varaha Kalpa
onwards Sukracarya had only one eye. Water flowed (Kalpa one day of Brahma or the period of 14
freely into the hands of Vamana. Sukra got angry and manus) It is seen in Siva Purana, Satapatha Brahmana
.
cursed Bali. Vamana began to measure the ground that Bali had four sons, called Sudhama, Kasyapa,
and simultaneously began to grow. The asuras who were Vasisjha and Virajas,
BALI IV 105 BALI
BALI IV. A king of the Yadavas. He was the son of Sugriva from the hermitage of Gautama and handed
Krtavarman. Bali married Carumatl, the daughter of them over to Rksarajas. (M.B., Adi Parva. Chapter 107;
Rukminl. (Bhagavata, Skandha 10). Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 42; Uttara Ramayana
BALI V. A famous monkey-king of the country of Anava. and Kampa Ramayana, Purvakanda).
This King who was the son of Sutapas was a contem- 2 Marriage and Kingship. Owing to difference of opini-
)
porary of the great King Sagara. on, Bali defeated the asuras who came for the churning
Bali did penance and Brahma appeared before him, of the Sea of Milk. The devas who were pleased at
and blessed him and said, "You will become a great this, gave Bali, a woman named Tara, derived from
sage and will live till the end of the Kalpa (a period the Sea of Milk. Thus Tara became his wife and he got
of world age). Your power will be inimitable. Nobody a son by her, named Arigada who became famous as a
will overthrow you in battle. You will be loved by mighty warrior-prince. Sugriva married Ruma. At that
your subjects and they will obey you. You will be well- time Rksaraja died and Bali became King. (Kampa
versed in the knowledge of law and its observance and Ramayana, Purvakanda).
the learned will recognize your knowledge. You will 3) Enmity with Hanuman. It was during this period
that Hanuman was born. While Siva and ParvatI were
'
witnessing a little of the dance of the celestial beauties Thinking that his brother was slain by the magician
in the realm of the devas. But males had no admittance Sugriva felt sorry. Then he closed the mouth of the cave
there. So Aruna took the shape of a beautiful woman firmly with stone and returned to Kiskindha. Hearing
and got in. Seeing a new person, very beautiful to about the death of Bali the monkeys anointed Sugriva
look at, sitting in the midst of the celestial maids Indra as King. After a time Bali returned stronger than before
grew amorous. He secretly took her to a dark place and saw the mouth of the cave closed. He thought that
and a son was born out of that coition. That son is Bali. Sugriva had closed the mouth of the cave deliberately
When Aruna returned the Sun was standing full of to kill him and to usurp his throne. Bali reached
anger. Being afraid of him Aruna confessed everything Kiskindha and drove Sugriva away. Sugriva fled to
to the Sun. When he heard the whole story the Sun Mount Rsyamukacala which was prohibited area for
expressed his desire to see that figure which Aruna had Bali due to a curse. Matanga had cursed him that if
adopted. Accordingly Aruna again became a woman. he entered that mountain his head would be broken.
The Sun also had coition with her and Sugriva was So Sugriva was safe in that mountain.
the son born out of this coition. Bali and Sugriva The desire of Bali to take revenge on Sugriva increased
were brought up by AhalyadevI in the hermitage of everyday. Everyday he used to go to the four sea-
Gautama. shores and conduct bath, prayer, meditation etc. and
At that time a monkey-king named Rksaraja had been return to Kiskindha within a short time. With one
ruling over the forest with Kiskindha as his capital. jump he will reach one place from another, and in
He had no sons and so he approached Indra and placed each jump he would put one step on the head of
before him his grievances. Indra brought Bali and
Sugriva in the RSyamukacala. Hanuman was the
BALI 106 BALVALA( VALAKALA)
minister of Sugrlva. He was much annoyed at this the other. Thier faces were so alike. Sugriva, being
habitual torture of Sugrlva. One day as usual Bali defeated, receded from fight. Sri Rama and Sugriva
was stepping on the head of Sugrlva to jump to another returned to Riyamukacala. ill of Sri
Surgiva spoke
place, when Hanuman caught hold of
Bali by his waist. Rama. But Rama
revealed the truth, and Sugriva
Sri
Hanuman thought that if Bali was dragged down on believed it. Next day morning both of them started for
the mountain somehow or other, his head would break Kiskindha to kill Bali. Sri Rama had put a flower
and there would be an end of his wicked deeds. Bali garland around the neck of Sugriva to distinguish him
thought that if he could jump into Kiskindha with from Bali. This time Tara tried to the utmost to dis-
Hanuman it would be easy for him to destroy Sugrlva. suade Bali from fighting. But without paying any heed
But both were of equal strength. So Bali did not jump to her words Bali engaged Sugriva in fighting. Sri
with Hanuman to Kiskindha and Hanuman did not Rama, sitting in ambush, instantly sent an arrow to
drag Bali to the ground. Both did not know how to the breast of Bali who looked to the side from which
stop the fight. At last they made a treaty. Bali agreed the arrow came. Before falling down, looking at Sri
to stop torturing Sugriva and Hanuman agreed not to Rama Bali said "It is not right on the part of the King
cause any trouble to Bali. Both returned to their own of Ayodhya to have shot an arrow from ambush".
places. After that Sugrlva lived in RSyamukacala with Hearing that Sri Rama said, "Ifyou see me face to face
his ministers and Bali in Kiskindha. (Valmiki Rama- you will become devoted to me. It is not right to kill
yana, Kiskindha Kanda, Sarga 10;Kampa Ra.ma.yana, one's devotee. You are a friend of Ravana, who as you
Purvakanda). know, is my foe. If I let you alone Ravana is likely to
5) Bali was cursed by Matanga the great hermit. See get your help. Besides, you have a boon that you will
the word Dundubhi para 4. get half the strength of the foe who faces you, and as
6) Defeating Havana. Bali had got a boon from the such you cannot be killed by anybody in direct fight.
Gods that he would get half the strength of his oppo- It is unavoidable for the safety of Sugriva, for my
nent who stood face to face with him in fight. This interest, for the protection of the world at large, and
power enabled Bali to defeat all his foes and bring the for the preservation of law and order that you should
countries in all directions under his sway. Ravana heard be killed. Was it not a violation of duty on your part
about this and decided to overpower Bali somehow or to steal the wife of Sugriva ?"
other and approached Kiskindha. Bali knew this. His Bali down. Immediately Taradevi and Aiigada
fell
minister, Taran, went to Ravana and told him about arrived Tara spoke very harsh words to Sri
there.
the power of Bali and of the boon by which Bali got Rama. At last Bali entrusted Tara and Aiigada with
half the strength of his opponent. When Ravana heard Sri Rama and then he died. (Kampa Ramayana,
of this peculiar boon he decided to kill Bali. His idea Kiskindh'ikanda) .
was to kill Bali by going behind him when he went to BALlHAM. A dynasty of Ksatriyas. It is mentioned in
the sea-shore to take bath in the morning. Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 74, Stanza 14
Next morning Bali went to the eastern sea-shore and that there was a king named Arkaja in this dynasty.
began his prayer and meditation. Ravana approached BALlSlKHA. A serpent born to Kasyapa prajapati
Bali from behind and sat close to him. Perhaps the of his wife Kadru. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 35,
idea of Ravana might have been to take Bali by his Stanza 8).
tail and beat him on the ground. Bali knew that BALIVAK. A hermit. It is mentioned in Mahabharata,
Ravana was sitting behind him. But pretending that Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 14 that this hermit
he knew nothing put his long tail on the body of had been a member of the durbar of Yudhisthira.
Ravana, and passed it lengthwise and breadthwise BALLALA. Son of a Vaigya named Kalyana. From
through every part of his body and tied him like a childhood Ballala was an ardent devotee of Ganapati.
bundle of faggots, and made a jump into the air. When he was a child he used to gather pebbles and
Within a short time he visited all the usual places and make a heap and then worship it, imagining it to be
reached Kiskindha. Seeing Ravana hanging by the GaneSa (Ganapati).
tail of Bali, even the women folk laughed. Thus His parents did not like this. They tried their best to
Ravana admitted defeat. Bali let him go unhurt. dissuade him from this habit. Once they tied him to
(Uttara Ramayana). a tree and gave him severe cuts. But their attempts
7) Death. After Sita had been stolen away Rama were futile. One day an image of Ganapati arose in
and Laksmana wandered about in the forest. Then the place where the child used to worship. (GaneSa
they met with Hanuman, who took them to his King Purana 1 2). :
Sugrlva. Sri Rama and Sugriva entered into a treaty, BALLAVA (VALLAVA) . A country in Bharata. Men-
by which Sri Rama
was to kill Bali and to restore to tion is made about this country in Mahabharata,
Sugriva his wife who was under the custody of Bali, and Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9.
to make him the King of Kiskindha, in return for
which Sugriva and his men had to help Sri Rama to
BALLAVA (VALLAVA). This is the pseudo-name
assumed by Bhimasena, while the Pandavas were living
find out and recover Sita. In accordance with the con-
in pseudonymity in the kingdom of Virata. In some
ditions of the treaty, Sri Rama and Sugriva reached
Puranas this name is shown as 'Valala'. (M.B., Virata
Kiskindha, to confront with Bali. Sri Ramaand Sug-
riva had hit up on a plan, by which Sri Rama was to Parva, Chapter 2, Stanza 1) .
shoot Bali down, when Sugriva was engaged in boxing BALOTKATA. A female attendant of Subrahmanya.
Stanza 23)
(M.B., Salya Parva, Chapter 46,
.
with Bali. Sugriva challenged Bali to a single combat.
Bali came out and a horrible boxing began between the BALVALA (VALKALA). An asura. This asura had
two. But Sri Rama could not distinguish one from been tormenting the hermits of the forest of Naimisa.
(BAl^ABHATTA) I 107 BARBARIKA
This asura was killed by Balabhadrarama. * For asura. So it was not possible for Laksmana to defeat
detailed story see para 6 of the word Balabhadra- him though he had fought with him for so many days.
rama. Laksmana heard an etherial voice saying, "Unless and
NA (BANABHATTA) I. A
Sanskrit poet who lived in until the image of Sivaliuga is removed from his throat
the 7th century A.D. He was a member of the assem- Bana could not be killed.''' By the operation of arrows
bly of emperor Harsa vardhana. 'Harsacarita' (prose) Laksmana smashed the image of Sivalinga in his
is the most
important work of Bana. Though many of throat. With the same arrow he cut the throat of the
the descriptions in this book contain exaggerations it asura also and thus Bana was killed. (Kampa Rama-
affords plenty of scope for investigation into the fea- yana, Uttara Kanda).
tures of ancient Sanskrit literature. He has mentioned BANDHUDAYADA. A son who can claim to be a heir.
about Vyasa, Bhatiara hariscandra, Satavahana, The Puranas state about six different kinds of Bandhu-
Pravarasena, Bhasa, Kalidasa and such others. dayadas.
Harsacarita, in a sense, is a Romance. It is divided 1) Svayamjdta. A son born to one's wife without a
into eight Ucchvasas. From the first two or three progenitor.
chapters informations could be had of Banabhatfa. 2) Prariita. A son born to one's wife by the blessing
His mother RajyadevI died when he was a little boy. of any holy man.
At the age of fourteen his father also died. After that 3) Putrikaputra. Son of one's daughter.
he arrived at the palace of Harsa. The story of Harsa- 4) Paunarbhava. A son born after a re-marriage.
carita begins with the death of Prabhakara- Vardhana, 5) Kdnina. A
son born before marriage.
father of Harsa. The Book ends with the story incom- 6) Bhaiija. Son of one's sister. All these sons are
plete. Harsacarita is the only historic prose work (Chapter 119, Adi Parva, M.B.).
heirs.
available in Sanskrit. BANDHUMAN. A king of the country ofVideha.
BANA II. A mighty and powerful Asura. (Chapter 6, Brahmanda Purana).
1) Genealogy and birth. Descended from Mahavisnu in BAND HUM
ATI. A lady attendant of Vasavadatta,
the following order Brahma- Marlci- wife of Udayana. (See
:
Kasyapa-Hiranya- Vasavadatta).
kasipu-Prahlada-Virocana-Mahabali-Bana. BARBARA. A country of puranic fame. The people
2) Getting a boon. Bana began his reign with the city living there were called Barbaras. They were consider-
of Sonitapura as his capital. Then he went to the ed as low caste people. There is also a statement that
vicinity of the Himalayas and began to do penance these people were born of the sides of the cow, Nan-
thinking of Siva. Siva made his appearance and asked dini. (Sloka 37, Chapter 174, Adi Parva, M.B.).
him what he wanted. He requested that he should be During the victory march of the Panda vas Bhlmasena
considered as the son of Parvati and that he should be conquered the Barbaras. Nakula also conquered these
given thousand hands so as to destroy all his enemies. people. (Chapter 32, Sabha Parva, M.B.) In the .
Siva granted him the boon. From that day onwards Rajasuya yajfta of Dharmaputra the Barbaras were
Parvati considered him as the younger brother of present with gifts.
Subrahmanya. He returned to his Kingdom and began BARBARIKA. Son of Maurvi born of Ghatotkaca, son
to reign. of Bhima. Skanda Purana gives the following details
3) Battle with Sri Krfna and his fall. (See the word about him.
Aniruddha) . Barbarika was a Yaksa in his previous life. Once the
4) Other information. (1) In the Puranas Banasura is devas unable to bear the insufferable harm done to
often called by the name Mahakala, which is the name them by the Dana vas approached Lord Mahavisnu for
of an attendant of Siva. (M.B Adi Parva, Chapter help and then the Yaksa who was present there at that
65, Stanza 20) . time said with arrogance, "There is no need for Visnu
(2) Sukracarya (the teacher of the Asuras) always to curb the activities of the Danavas. I shall do it my-
worked for the uplift of Bana. (M.B., Sabha Parva, self." Hearing those arrogant words Brahmi cursed
Chapter 38, Stanza 29). him saying that in his next life he would be killed by
(3) In the Battle with Sri Krsna, Bana was helped by Visnu.
Siva, Subrahmanya, and the Gods like Agni (fire) and True to the curse the Yaksa was born in his next life
others. (M.B., Sabha Parva, Chapter 38) . as Barbarika, son of Ghatotkaca. To lessen the force of
(4) Sri Krsna cut down the thousand hands of Bana the curse Krsna advised him to worship Devi. At last
with his Cakrayudha (the wheel weapon). (M.B'., pleasing the goddess by the kindly help of a brahmin
Sabha Parva, Chapter 38). named Vijaya Barbarika killed a demoness called
( 5) Bana often stood under the cover of the mountain Mahajihva and a demon of name Repalendra. The
of Kraunca and attacked the devas
(gods). So once brahmin further gave him a weapon named Vibhuti
Subrahmanya had to cut the mountain Kraunca with which could split the vital centres of the body of an
his arrows. (M.B., Salya Parva,
Chapter 46, Stanza enemy and said, "Use this weapon against the Kaura-
_82) . vas who oppose the Pandavas."
BANA III. A warrior of Subrahmanya. Mention is Once Barbarika defeated his grandfather Bhima in a
made about this Bana in Mahabharata, Salya Parva, battle and greatly grieved over the injury done started
Chapter 45, Stanza 67. to commit suicide. Then Devi appeared before him and
BANA IV. An asura. During the regime of Sri Rama reminded him thus, ''You will get salvation only if you
this Asura fought against the King and his brothers. A are killed by Sri Krsna and so desist from committing
Sivaliiiga had been consecrated in the throat of this suicide."
In the original of Bhagavata this name is given as Balvala. But in the Malayalam translation the name used is "Valkala".
BARHANASVA 108 BHADRA III
The great war started and Barbarika fighting on the of Hrada. Three sons Ayusman, Sibi and Baskala were
side of the Pandavas started using his weapon Vibhuti. born to Samhrada.
He sent it against all excepting the Pandavas, Krpa- 2) Later history. Baskala became one of the ministers
carya and Asvatthama. He did not leave even Krsna of the famous and mighty hero Mahisasura. Ciksura
alone and the weapon fell on the feet of Krsna also. was the minister of law and order. Tamra was the Finance
Enraged at this Krsna used his Sudarsana Cakra and Minister. Asiloma was the Prime Minister and Bidala
cut off his head at once Devi appeared and brought
; the minister of foreign affairs. Udarkka was the general
him to life. After the great battle on the advice of of the army; Baskala, Trinetra and Kalabandhaka were
Krsna Barbarika went and lived in Guptaksetra. members of the administrative council. Sukra.ca.rya was
BARHAISASVA. A king born of the dynasty of emperor the minister of education. Baskala played an important
Prthu. Descending in order Prthu-Visvarandhi-Candra-
: in the battle between Mahisasura and Indra.
part
Yuvanaiva-Savanta - Brhadasva - Dhundhumara (alias When soldiers were killed by thousands, Mahisasura
HaryasVa - Nikumbha and to
- DrdhasVa -
ValayasVa) sent lastly, Baskala and Durmukha. Baskala engaged
Nikuihbha was born Barhanaiva and from him Kr^asva- himself in a combat with Devi who fought on the side
Prasenajit-Yuvanaiva - Mandhata. (Saptama Skandha, of the Devas. Baskala became angry and aiming at the
Devi Bhagavata) . breast of Devi he gave a severe blow with his club.
BARHIS. A devagandharva clan. These were born to But Devi evaded him with her club and gave him a
KaSyapa prajapati of his wife Prtha. (Chapter 65, Adi severe thrust with her trident at his breast and Baskala
Parva, M.B.). fell dead. (Agni Purana, Chapter 19; Devi Bhagavata,
BARHISAD (S) A class of Manes. It is mentioned in
. Skandha 5).
Agni Purana, Chapter 20 that some classes of manes BASKALA II. One of the disciples of Vyasa. (See the
such as Agnisvattas, Barhisads, Anagnis, and Sagnis are word Guruparampara) .
said to have derived from Brahma. Brahma created two BATU (VATU). A brahmin who reads the Glta daily.
different sets of Pitrs, Agnisvattas and Barhisads. Because in life he held fast to duty he was carried to
(Chapter 10, Amsam I, Visnu Purana). heaven after death. The dead body was eaten away
TheseBarhisads who are members of the Yamasabha (coun- by birds and the bony skeleton remained. When rains
cil of the God of Death) perform the mantric rites for started the empty skull was filled with water and a
the dead. The name brings into its fold the world of sinner passing that way touched the skull and the sinner
the seven sacred sages also. ( Chapter 208, Santi Parva, got salvation. (Padma Purana, Uttara Khanda).
M.B.) . It was through these Barhisads that Brahma BAUDHAYANA. A teacher-priest who acted according
taught Satvatadharma to a brahmin who became well- to Kalpa Sutras (rituals of sacrifices) .
known later as Jyestfia. (Chapter 34, Sloka 45, Santi BHADRA A king
I. of Cedi whofought on the Pandava
Parva, M.B.) . side. Kama killed him. (Kama Parva, Chapter 56,
Manusmrti states that the Barhisads are the sons of the Verse 48) .'
Maharsi Atri and the Pitrs of all the Daityas, Danavas, BHADRA II. One of the four elephants which, from
Yaksas, Gandharvas, Uragas, Raksasas, Suvarnas and Patala, support the world. (See Astadiggajas) .
enquired about the incident. On hearing the story waters of this place would entitle one to Brahmaloka.
from the woman Syamabala got instructions regarding (Vana Parva, Chapter 82, Verse 80).
that Punyavrata from the old woman and started
BHADRAVATA. The abode of ParvatI and Para-
observing it. Within four weeks she got married and mcsvara. The glory of it is described in
went to her husband's house. After Syamabala.' s depar- Chapter 82
Vana Parva, M.B.
ture from the palace the wealth of the King began to
wane and they became so poor that at the request of the BHADRAYU. A king who was a devotee of Siva. He
was a leper and in his life he suffered much, even the
queen the King Bhadrasrava went to his daughter to ask
for help. The daughter gave his father a block of solid pangs of death. His wife was the dutiful and good
natured lady, Kirtimalinl.
gold drapped But on his return to the
in a paper.
when he opened the bundle he found there a On the sixteenth birthday of
Bhadrayu Siva appeared
lock of charcoal
Calace instead of gold. On before him in name
of Rsabha and blessed him
the
seeing the mis- after instructing him on the
hap the king burst into a cry. precepts of Rajadharma.
Suraticandrika then went to her daughter and was well
He further gave him a dagger and a conch as weapons
and twelve thousand elephants. With the
received and attended to. During her stay there the might of all
these, Bhadrayu became unconquerable. (Siva Purana,
Punyavrata day of the month came and the daughter
tried her best to make her mother also observe the batarudrasamhita) .
same. But the poverty-stricken queen broke the fast One day, while Bhadrayu was ruling the country, Siva
without her daughter's knowledge by eating what re- came in the guise of a
tiger and carried away the wife
of a brahmin. Bhadrayu, a firm
mained in the dishes of the children. But the next protector of his sub-
month Syamabala compelled her mother to observe the jects gave his own wife to the brahmin and
prepared
fast strictly and so
himself to give up his life in fire. Siva
Suraticandrika took the Vrata greatly pleased
at this selfless act of
successfully. A few days after that Suraticandrika re- Bhadrayu befitting a true King
turned home and to her amazement found everything appeared before him and blessed him and gave back
in plenty there once more.
the brahmin his wife.
(Chapter 11, Bhaga 2,
Padma Purana). Bhadrayu in
previous birth was a King called
his
day Agastya used to speak in glowing terms about couple begot three sons called Mahiman, Vibhu and
Kantimati and asked about the reason for it he replied :
Prabhu and three daughters called Suvrata, Vararoha,
"In her previous birth Kantimati was a servant girl in and Asls.
a wealthy house. The masterof the house once entrust- Bhaga participated in the birthday celebrations of
(2)
ed her with the task of seeing that none of the temple Arjuna. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 122, Verse 66).
lights went put on the night of DvadasI in the month (3) At the time of Khandavadaha (burning of the
of Tula (Asvina October). She did her duty so Khandava forest) Bhaga, as a supporter of Indra, who
willingly and sincerely that she was born as a queen and was fighting Arjuna and Sri Krsna, sprang upon the
you a King". Then Agastya gave them instructions enemies with sword in hand. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chap-
about that Vrata which both Bhadrasva and Kantimati ter 236, Verse 36) .
observed sincerely, receiving as a result benediction (4) Bhaga shines forth in Indra's assembly. (M.B.,
from Visnu. (Vayu Purana). Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 22).
BHADRASVA II. Agnidhra, son of Priyavrata and (5) Bhaga was also present at the installation of Subrah-
grandson of Manu, got nine sons of his wife Purvacitti, manya as commander of the fighting forces.
(M.B.,
a celestial maiden. One of the sons was BhadrasVa! Salya Parva, Chapter 45) .
His brothers were Nabhi, Kirhpurusa, Hari, (6 ) After Dcvayuga (Deva age) , the Devas asembled
Ilavrta,
Ramyaka, Hiranmaya, Kuru andKetumala. The coun- together and decided upon the share of yajfias due to
try ruled by Bhadrasva was called Bhadrasva lying each of them, and in thus fixing shares they left out
to the east of the mountain Gandhamadana.
(Pancama Rudra. Enraged at this neglect Rudra made a bow
Skandha, Bhaga vata). and fought against the Devas. During the fight Rudra,
BHADRASVA. An island near the mountain of Meru. with the point of his bow, extracted the hands of
Dharmaputra was ruling this land and Sanjaya once Savita, the eyes of Bhaga and the teeth of Pusa. Ulti-
described this land to Dhrtarastra. (Chapter 14, Santi mately the Devas satisfied and pleased. Rudra, who
Parva and Chapter 7, Bhlsma returned to Bhaga and others the eyes etc. which had
Parva).
BHADRATANU. An immoral brahmin. On the advice been extracted. (M.B., Sauptika Parva).
of Danta he became a devotee of Visnu and attained BHAGA II. Certain Puranas refer to Bhaga as one of
I
salvation. (Padma Purana, Kriya, the eleven Rudras. But, this view is not
Chapter 17). universally
BHADRATUNGA. A sacred place; a dip in the holy accepted.
BHAGA III 112 BHAGAVAD GlTA
BHAGA III. A vedic god considered to be the lord of 19) Bhagadatta killed Ruciparvan. (Drona Parva,
is also one of Chapter 26, Verse 52)
wealth, prowess and happiness. Bhaga
.
the six Adityas mentioned in the Rgveda, viz. Bhaga, 20) He shot the Vaisnavastra (arrow given by Visnu)
Mitra, Aryainfi, Varuna, Daksa and
Arhsa. (Rgveda, on Arjuna. (Drona Parva, Chapter 29, Verse 17).
21) Aijuna killed Bhagadatta. (Drona Parva, Chapter
2.27).
BHAGADA. An attendant (woman) of Subrahmanya. 29, Verse 48).
Verse 26) 22) After his death, his son, Vajradatta became King
(Salya Parva, Chapter 46,
.
pura.
about him. 23) King Sailalaya, who was Bhagadatta's grandfather,
was born from a limb of the asura attained Indraloka on account of the greatness of his
1) Bhagadatta
called Biskala. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse tapas. (Asrainavasika Parva, Chapter 20, Verse 10).
BHAGANANDA. An woman of Subrahmanya.
attendant
9).
at the wedding of Pancali. (Adi (Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 11).
2) He was present BHAGA VADDHYANAPARVA. A
Parva, Chapter 185, Verse 12). sub-parva of Udyoga-
3 ) Known also as lord of the Yavanas (Yavanadhipa) .
Parva. comprises chapters 72-150 in Udyoga Parva.
It
Bhagadatta was a friend of Pandu, and that friendship BHAGAVATA. One of the eighteen famous Puranas.
was transferred to Yudhisthira too. (Sabha Parva, Gayatrl is the main theme of this Purana and based on
it it dwells on the greatness of Dharma (duty) and states
Chapter 14, Verse 14).
4) The triumphal
tour of Arjuna in connection with about the dharmas of Sarasvatakalpa. (See under
the Rajasuya yajna performed by Yudhisthira evoked Purana) .
feelings of jealousy
in the heart of Bhagadatta, and he BHAGAVAD GlTA.
fought against Arjuna. The courage
and prowess Arjuna 1) General. The Bhagavad Gita is a poem consisting of
exhibited in the fight astonished Bhagadatta, who 650 verses divided into eighteen chapters. The Gita
congratulated Arjuna on
his supreme courage and covers chapters 25-45 in the Bhlsma Parva of the Maha-
admitting defeat yielded to Arjuna. (Sabha Parva, bharata, and it is in the form of a talk or discussion
Chapter 26, Verse?). between Arjuna and Lord Krsna. The mighty armies
5) Bhagadatta, along with the Yavanas was present at of the Pandavas and the Kauravas were arrayed on
the Rajasuya of Yudhisthira. He also made presents of opposite sides for mortal combat on the field of Kuru-
horses of very high pedigree and very costly gems etc. ksetra when Arjuna, overcome by grief at the prospect
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 51, Verse 14). of fathers, brothers, preceptors and other Kinsmen
6) Kama once defeated Bhagadatta in fight. (Vana fighting and killing one another expressed to his
Parva, Chapter 254, Verse 5). charioteer, Sri Krsna his aversion to fighting. But, the
7) In the great
war he, with his army, fought on the Lord pointed out to the unwilling Arjuna, by unique
side of Duryodhana. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 19, and various arguments, his imperative duty, under the
Verse 15). circumstance, to fight and fight in heroic earnestness with
8) During theday of the war Bhagadatta fought
first the result that Arjuna shed his disinclination to fight and
a duel with the King of Virata. (Bhlsma Parva, Chap- entered (he fray, which ended in the ultimate victory
ter 45, Verse 49) .
of the Pandavas. And the dialogue between Arjuna
He was in his fight with Ghatotkaca.
defeated and Krsna, and especially the great teaching of Krsna
9)
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 64, Verse 59). on the "field form the theme of the Gita. The Gita
10) In the fight
which took place after the above de- contains three spheres or fields of teaching; the karma
feat Bhagadatta caused Bhlmasena to faint in the field. yoga (philosophy of action) jnana yoga (philosophy of
,
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 64, Verse 13). knowledge) and Bhaktiyoga (philosophy of devotion).
1
)
And
1 after that he defeated Ghatotkaca in fight. The three yogas are treated each in six chapters.
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 40). The theme of the Gita is philosophy, and it is revered
the combat with King Dasarna in
12) Next ensued as one of the most sublime philosophical texts of the
which the King was defeated. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter Hindu religion. Many a great thinker and philosopher
95, Verse 48) . like Acarya Sahkara, Ramanujacarya and Madhva-
after this that Bhagadatta cut off
13) It was not long carya have annotated, and written commentaries on
the hands of the Ksatradeva. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter the Gita. There is a school of thought which believes
95, Verse 73). that the Gita was taught to Arjuna by Krrna himself
14) ViSoka, the charioteer of Bhlma-sena, hit by the on the battle-field in something like tabloid form and
arrows of Bhagadatta fell down and fainted. (Bhlsma that Vyasa eleborated the mighty teaching in its present
Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 76). form. The poet, Bana, who flourished in the 7th
15) Bhagadatta and Satyaki fought against each other. century A.D., and the great Sankara, who lived in the
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 111, Verse 7). 8th century believed that the Gita was sung by Krsna
16) Chapters 113 and 114 of the
Bhlsma Parva d.s- himself. But there are some modern thinkers, who
cribe the combats fought by Bhagadatta with Bhlma- argue that the Gita was composed some time between
sena and Arjuna. the third and fourth centuries B.C. and it was inter-
17) Bhagadatta and Drupada fought with each other. polated into the Mahabharata in the second century
(Drona Parva, Chapter 14, Verse 40). A.D.
18) Bhagadatta killed king Dasama. (Drona Parva, The Gita has translations in all the languages of the
Chapter 26, Verse 38) .
world. The whole world has acclaimed it as a very
BHAGAVATl 113 BHAGlRATHA
weighty and valuable contribution in the sphere of and its modifications) respectively. Prakrti is also
philosophy. called by the name Sakti. The following elucidation
2) Theme of the Gitd. It has been mentioned above that once given by Mahavisnu about Bhagavan and Bhaga-
the Glta forms chapters 25-45 in the Bhisma Parva of vati is
greatly illuminating.
the Mahabharata. The subject-matter of each chapter Time, space, atmosphere and the universe (Brah-
of the Glta is given below. mandam) are, just like Paramatma, eternal. This is the
Chapter 25. Arjunavifdda yoga; Both the armies take truth and reality. Below this eternal Gokula exists
positions in Kuruksetra. At the sound of the conches Vaikunthaloka, which also is, like the former, eternal.
Aijuna becomes dejected and sorrowful at the prospect Just like this, Prakrti, which is a sport to Brahma and
of killing relations, preceptors and Kinsmen. is also without beginning or end (SanatanI) too is
Chapter 26. Sdrhkhya yoga : The
greatness and majesty eternal. In the same manner as flame exists in fire in-
of the Samkhya and the Karma yogas. separable from it, moonlight in moon, beauty in the
Chapter 27. Karma yoga : The need for action according lotus flower and brightness in the sun, so does nature
to the Jftana and the Karma yogas. exist in soul inseparable therefrom. In the same way
Chapter 28. Jndnakarma Vibhaga yoga : Power of Saguna as the goldsmith cannot make gold ornaments without
Brahma (Brahma with attributes) ,
Niskama-karma gold and the potter cannot make pots without clay, the
yoga (Action without an eye on the result) spiritual Paramatma will not in the least be able to function
greatness of various yajftas. unaided by Prakrti. Prakrti (Nature, Devi) is all power-
Chapter 29. Sannyasa yoga Samkhya yoga, Niskama-
: ful. 'Para' becomes
powerful enough to do everything
karma yoga, Jnana yoga, Jftana yoga with Bhakti. when he joins the Devi.
Chapter 30. Atmasamyama yoga Niskamakarma yoga, : The sound 'Sa' means welfare and good fortune, and
Atmodharana, Jfianayoga. the sound 'kti' means prowess. Hence ''Sakti" means
Chapter 31. Jfianayoga: Jnanavijfianas, origin of the the embodiment of welfare and prowess or she, who is
world, the Daiva and Asura aspects of Isvara, worship the giver of welfare and prowess. Bhagavati combines
of other Devas. in herself knowledge, affluence, riches, fame and strength.
Chapter 32 Tarakabrahma yoga
. Seven questions of : As the Paramatma is always with and inseparable from
Arjuna about Brahma, Atmatatva and Karma. Sri such Bhagavati he is called
Bhagavan also. When
Krsna's answers thereto. Bhakti yoga, the Sukla and Prakrti and Paramatma remain combined it is called
the Krsna margas. Parabrahma, which possesses neither form nor attri-
Chapter 33. Rdjardja guhya yoga Jnana and Vijnana, : butes. And, when Prakrti and Purusa separate, of their
origin of the world, Saka.maniska.mo-
Is"varasvarupa, own accord, they assume forms and attributes.
pasana, Bhagavadbhakti. The above is Saiva doctrine in a nut-shell. The
Chapter 34. Vibhuti yoga ~Bhagavan's Vibhuti (Divine
: Vaisnavas do not accept this position. They ask, "How
attributes) Bhakti yoga. is it possible to have brightness or
, effulgence without
Chapter 35. ViwarupadarSanayoga : Arjuna's prayer there being an effulgent one?" Therefore, the Vaisnavas
to be shown Visvarupa (cosmic form), description of believe in the existence, at the centre of an effulgent
visvarupa by Sri Krsna and Sanjaya, Sri Krsna reveals sphere, of a thing possessing the utmost effulgence and
visvarupa to Arjuna; fear-stricken at the sight, Arjuna brightness equal to that of Brahma. This 'thing'
sings the praise of Krsna. Deva is very efficient and effective to remedy sorrows
Chapter 36. Bhaktiyoga The great benefits of wor-
: due to birth, death, disease etc. and to him the life-
shipping God with form and without form. time of Brahma is just one minute only. This Deva is
Chapter 37. Kfttrakfttrqjfta Vibhaga yoga Description :
called Paramatma, Parabrahma and Krsna by the
of Ksetraksetrajfia with Jnana, and of Prakrti and Vaisnavas. 'Krs' means maximum devotion (love)
Purusa. towards Paramatma, and 'na' means he who becomes
Chapter 38. Gunatrayavibhaga yoga: The greatness of slave to such devotion. Hence Krsna means he who
Jnana; world's origin from Prakrti and Purusa, the becomes a slave to the love of his devotees. There Is
three gunas, sattva, rajas and tamas; means to attain another meaning also for the word Krsna. Krs means
god; marks of Yugatltapurusa. all and 'na' means seed or root; and thus Kfsna means
Chapter 39. Punt fottama yoga: Essential principles of he, who is the root of everything. In the very begin-
world and life, attainment of God, relationship bet- ning there was only this Krsna ; and this Lord, sub-
ween Jivatma and Paramatma, principle and theory of ject only to his own will and pleasure, divided him-
ksara purusa and aksara purusa. self into two, the left side becoming woman and the
Chapter 40. Daivdsura sampadvibhaga yoga: Good ac- right side man. (Devi Bhagavata, Navama Skandha) .
tions, evil deeds, scientific actions and unscientific BHAGINI. A word used in addressing women. Verse
actions. 129 in chapter two of the Manusmrti lays down that
Chapter 41. Sraddhatrayavibhdga yoga Descriptions of:
the wife of another person and women who are not
Scientific tapas, diet, one's relatives should be addressed either as Bhavati,
yajnatapas and dana. Interpre-
tation of Om. Subhage or Bhagini.
Chapter 42. Mok$asannydsa yoga: Tyagam, Sarhkhya BHAGlRATHA.
theory, Varnadharmas, jnananistha, Niskamakarmayoga 1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus: Brahma-
with bhakti and the greatness of the Glta. Marici - KaSyapa-Vivasvan-Vaivasvata manu-Iksvaku-
(For another story about the greatness of the Glta Vikuksi-Sasada -Kakutstha-Anenas-PrthulaSva-Prasena-
see Dussasana II). jit-Yuvanaiva - Mandhata - Purukutsa - Trasadasyu-
BHAGAVATl. The words Bhagavan and Bhagavati Anaranya-HaryaSva-Vasumanas - Sudhanva - Traiyya-
mean Paramatma (universal self) and Prakrti (Nature runa-Satyavrata or TriSahku HariScandra-RohitaSva-
-
BHAGlRATHA 114 BHAGlRATHA
According to verse 12, Chapter 25, of Vana Parva, Bhagiratha is the sen of DilTja. Fit nctt cf il.c Turf.iss nftr to him a
the son of Amsuman.
BHAGlRATHl 115 BHALLATA
(3)Bhagiratha had faith in the great efficacy of making that they were born as mortals in their next birth.
a gift of cows. (AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 76, Verse (Kalika Purana 53).
25). The Puranas mention eight Bhairavas called Asitarhga,
(4) He married his daughter to Kautsa. (AnuSasana Ruru, Canda, Krodha, Unmatta, Kapiili, Bhlsana and
Parva, Chapter 131, Verse 25). Sarhhara.
(5) Once Bhagiratha made a gift of one lakh of cows 5) Shape. Bhairava has a terrible shape. He wears the
with calves to Maharsi Kohala, and attained Uttama- crescent moon and plaited hair on his head. His wea-
loka.(Anusasana Parva, Chapter 137, Verse 27). pons are, sword, arrow, dagger, bow, trident, rope
BHAGlRATHl. Another name of Gariga. (See under etc. At times he is dressed in elephant-skin. He has
Ganga). five faces. Serpents are his ornaments. (Agni Purana,
BHAGNARATHA. A synonym of Citraratha. (See Chapters 52-80).
Citraratha). BHAIRAVl. One of the eight Ambas. They are :
BHAGUR1. A man of great erudition, Bhaguri was Rudrarcika, Rudracandl, NatesVari, Mahalaksmi,
noted for his proficiency as a SarvaSfistra Pandit Siddhacamundika, SiddhayogeSvari, Bhairavl and
(scholar of all sciences), Vyakaranakara (grammarian), Rupavidya. All these are the eight different forms of
Kosakara (etymologist) , Jyotissastrajfia (Astronomer) Devi. (See the word DEVl).
and Smrtikara (authority on Smrti) . BHAJAMANA. A Yadava King, whose father was Sat-
BHAIRAVA I. A naga belonging to the Dhrtarastra vata and mother Kausalya, and they had, beside
Varhs'a. There is a reference to this naga in Maha- Bhajamana, another son called Satvata or Andhaka.
bharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 51, Verse 17. He was Bhajamana married the two daughters of S njaya,
burnt up at the Sarpasatra performed by King Janame- named Bahyaka and Upabahyaka by whom he got six
jaya. sons. (Bhagavata, Navama Skandha).
BHAIRAVA A Parsada of Siva.
II. BHAJYA. An acarya in the line of the Rk disciples of
1) General. Immediately after his birth, this terrible Vyasa. Bhajya studied Valakhilyasarhhita at the feet of
monster subdued all the Devas without getting the his guru Biiskali. (Bhagavata, Dvadasa Skandha).
permission of Siva. Enraged at it, Siva turned him into BHAKSAKA. A Sudra sinner. In Paclma Purana the
a tree by a curse. But Siva was soon pacified and lifted
following story is related about this Sudra.
the curse by declaring that those who offered puja to
Bhaksaka who was once going aimlessly somewhere
the gods would get the full reward for their worship
felt extremely thirsty, and quenched his thirst by
only if they offered puja to Bhairava also. drinking water which was found near the small plat-
Bhairava became a tree as soon as he was cursed. He
form raised for the holy Tulasi shrub. The sanctity of
became a tree because he subdued the gods. Therefore the water thus drunk washed away all the sin attached
that tree came to be called "DAMANAKA" tree
to him. Some time later he was killed by a forest-
(Damana = Subdue). It has another name, "TATIRI"
dweller, and he attained svargaloka (heaven) Bhaksaka,
.
tree. Even now, pious people offer puja to this tree. in his previous birth, was a king who led a voluptuous
(Agni Purana, Chapters 52-80). life, and he, once, robbed a very beautiful woman of
2) Birth. Once Brahma and Visnu became swollen her chastity, and it was as a punishment for the sin
with pride. In his haughty way, Brahma insulted Siva.
that the King had to be born, in the next birth, in the
Under the insult, Siva was infuriated and out of the womb of a Sudra woman. (Padma PurSna, Brahma
fire of his fury was born Bhairava with his black form.
Kanda, Chapter 22).
(Linga Purana 1 .90) .
BHALUKI I. A Rsi, who was a member of Yudhis(hi- BHANU II. Son of Dyau; this Bhanu was a guru of
ra's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 15). Surya. (Sloka 42, Chapter 1, Adi Parva, M.B.) .
BHALUKI II. A maharsi. He also accompanied the BHANU III. A devagandharva born to Kasyapa praja-
Pandavas to Dvaitavana. (Vana Parva, Chapter 27). pati of his wife Prtha. (Sloka 47, Chapter 65, Adi
BHALUKI III. An acfirya. He was a disciple of Larigali, M.B.)
i'arva, .
a member of the Sfuna line of disciples of Vyasa. BHANU IV. He is the son of an agni called Pancajanya.
(Vayu Purana). He is born of the spiritual essence of Angiras and
BHAMAHA. A critic who lived in the sixth century A.D. Cyavana. This Bhanu is called Manu and Brhadbhanu.
He was one of the top critics in the Sanskrit language. (Chapters 220 and 221, Parva, M.B.'). Vana
His important work is 'Kavyalamkara'. This is also BHANU V. A king of ancient Bharata. This king took
called Bhamahalarhkaraby a few. There are six chapters a flying tour of Kuruksetra in Indra's aeroplane to
in this. The first chapter deals with KavyaSarira, the witness the battle between Arjuna and Drona. (Sloka
second and third with Alaihkara, the fourth with Kavya- 9, Chapter 56, Virata Parva, M.B.) .
dosa the fifth with Nyaya and the sixth with Sabdasud- BHANU VI. A yadava. He learnt the art of archery
dhi. As against Datidi Bhamaha separates 'Katha' from from Pradyumna. Sahadeva married the daughter of
'Akhyayika'. According to him the requisites of a good this Bhanu called Bhanumati. (Vana Parva, 180, 27
Kavya are sweetness, pleasantness and liveliness. Dandi and Harivamsa 2.20.12).
prescribes ten attributes for a good Kavya. Bhamaha is BHANUDATTA. A brother of Sakuni. In the Maha-
of opinion that Vakrokti is no alarhkara at all. In bhfirata he fought against Bhlma and died.
battle
a wider sense it is 'atisayokti' (exaggeration). But (Sloka 24, Chapter 157, Drona Parva, M.B.).
Bhamaha admits it has a place in Kavya. BHANUDEVA. A warrior of Pancala state. Kama killed
BHAMINl. Wife of Aviksit, King of Vaigali. The him in battle. (Sloka 15, Chapter 48. Kama Parva).
famous Marutta is the son born to this couple. The BHANUKOPA. A demon. He fought against Subrah-
Markandeya Purana states that Bhamini once went to manya. (Asura Khanda, Skanda Purana).
Nagaloka to give refuge to the serpents there. BHANUMAN I. A king of the dynasty of Sri Rama.
BHANAVl. A river. Sri Rama and Laksmana on their He was the father of a King called Sakradyumna.
way to the forests from Citrakufa crossed this river, (Navama Skanda, Bhagavata).
Bhanavi. (Sarga 52, Ayodhya Kanda, Valmlki Rama- BHANUMAN II. A son born to Krsna of Satyabhama.
yana) .
(Dasama Skandha, Bhagvata).
BHA^'pAYANI. A maharsi. This sage sits in Devaloka BHANUMAN III. AprinceofKalinga. He fought on
and worships Indra. (Sloka 12, Chapter 7, Sabha Parva, the side of the Kauravas and was killed by Bhimasena.
MB.). (Chapter 54, Bhisma Parva, M.B.)
BHA\*plRA(M). An ancient forest. It was in this BHANUMATI I. The daughter of Bhanu, a leader of
Arhbadi that Sri Krsna with his cow-
forest situated in the Yadavas. When Sri Krsna went with his retinue of
herd chums conducted his childhood exploits. There Yadavas to visit the holy palace called Pindaraka the
was a very huge tree of name Bhandlra in this forest Yadavas conducted a wine festival. During that festi-
and it was under this great tree that Krsna and his val a demon of the name Nikumbha carried away
friends met daily for their play. This forest is on the Bhanumati. This was because of a curse to Bhanumati
northern bank of Gaiiga in front of Kesighatta in from Durvasas whom Bhanumati did not respect once
Vrndavana. The Puranas proclaim that it was here that when they met at the garden of Raivata. Durvasas had
Brahma conducted the marriage of Krsna withRadha. after the curse consoled her by assuring her that she
(Chapter 38, Sabha Parva, Daksinatya Pa jha, M.B.). would be saved and married by Sahadeva, one of the
BHANGA. A serpent born in the Taksaka dynasty. Pandavas. True to this, Bhanumati was married to Saha-
Bhaiiga was burnt to ashes at the Serpent Yajna per- deva in the presence of Narada and Krsna. (Visnu
formed by King Janamejaya. (M.B., Chapter 57, Parva, Chapter 90) .
(Adi Parva, Chapter 218, Verse 11) . BHANUSENA. A son of Kama. He was killed in the
BHANGASURI I. Another name of King Rtuparna. battle by Bhimasena. (Sloka 27, Chapter 48, Karna
BHANGASVAN BHANGASVANA) A
( king in ancient
.
Parva, M.B.).
India. For the story of his transformation into a woman BHARADVAJA I. Another name of Dlrghatamas.**
** Dlrghatamas is also called Bharadvaja. But the Bharadvaja of puranic fame is not
Dirghatamas. Dlrghatamas is the son whom
Brhaspati illegitimately (tot of Mamata, his brother's wife. There was then another legitimate child in the womb of Mamata. Knowing this
the devas told her 'Bharadvaja' meaning 'bear the brunt of two' and so the son of Brhaspati got the name of Bharadvaja also. The real
name of this son was Dirghatamas or Vitatha. Dirghatamas is not the Bharadvaja who was the father of Drona. The famous Bharadvaja
was the son of Atri. Dirghatamas or Vitatha was the adopted son of Bharata. son of Dusyanta. (Bhagavata and Kamparamayana. For
details see under Bharata I and Dirghatamas.
BHARADVAJA it 117 BHARADVAJA
BHARADVAJA II. The sage Bharadvaja of Puranic Bhare ca bharyamavyajad
fame. Bharadvajo'smi sobhane
1
)
General information. Ayodhya Kanda of Kampa (I protect even those who are not my sons, I protect
Ramayana states that thissage was the son of Atn my disciples, I protect devas and the brahmins. I
Maharsi. He lived for many thousands of years. He is protect my wife and all these I do with ease and so I
connected with Valmiki and the story of Sri Rama. am named Bharadvaja). (Bhiigavata)
Bharadvaja was for many years a disciple of Valmiki. 7) Other details.
He was present with Valmiki when the hunter killed (1) Bharadvaja once gave refuge in his asrama to
one of the couple of Kraunca. When Valmiki and Manorama, daughter of the King of Kalihga and her
Bharadvaja reached the shores of the river, Tamasa, son. (See under Manorama) .
Then Valmiki taking the valkala from the disciple (4) Bharadvfija had a daughter Devavarnim whom
walked along the shore admiring the beauty of the Visravas married and got the son, Kubera. (see under
forest treesand found on his way the historic Kraunca Kubera).
(5) Once Bharadvaja was travelling through an
couple. (Sarga 2, Bala Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana). unin-
2) Bharadvaja and the study of Vedas. Bharadvaja gave habited forest with his son when he became exhausted
himself untiringly to the study of the Vedas. He obtain- by hunger and he then begged of a sudra, Prthu,
ed from Indra a boon to extend his term of life on several cows. (Sloka 107, Chapter 1, Manusmrti) .
earth to many thousands of years by different stages, (6) This sage took part in a birthday celebrations
of
each stage covering a span of a thousand years of life. Arjuna. (Sloka 57, Chapter 122, Adi Parva, M.B.).
All these years he devoted to an incessant study of the (7) Because of the blessing of Bharadvaja Bharata got
Vedas. Finding the term not sufficient for completing a son named Bhumanyu. (Sloka 22, Chapter 94, Adi
the study of the Vedas he appealed to Indra again for Parva, M.B.).
extension and Indra appearing in person took him before (8) Bharadvaja taught the secret of the missile Agenya
three mountains and giving him three handfuls of to Agnivesa. (Sloka 39, Chapter 129, Adi Parva,
sand told him thus, "What you have studied about M.B.).
Vedas till this time is equivalent to the amount of (9) He worshipped Brahma sitting in the council of
sand I have now given and what is yet to be studied Brahma. (Sloka 22, Chapter 11, Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
about the Vedas is as big as the three mountains before (10) This sage came to the battlefield during the
Maha-
you". Any other mortal being would have been dis- bharata battle and requested Drona to lay down his
heartened by this revelation made by Indra, but not missile. (Sloka 35, Chapter 196, Drona Parva, M.B.) .
Bharadvaja. Undaunted he continued his studies. (Bhaga- (1 1) Once Bhrgu Maharsi asked
him some questions on
vata). the creation of this universe and Bharadvaja gave him
3) Bharadvaja in of a magician. The asrama of
the role
satisfactory answers. (Chapter 182, Santi Parva,
Bharadvaja was Citrakuta and Sri Rama and
in M.B.).
Laksmana in the beginning of their exile went to his (12) This sage performed the sacrifice Putrakamesti,
asrama accepting his blessings. Bharata on his return and gave a son to Divodasa. (Chapter 30, Anusasana
from Kekaya knew about the exile of his brothers and Parva, M.B.).
hoping to bring them back to Ayodhya went in search BHARADVAJA III. The eldest son of the Agni, Samyu.
of them with a big retinue of soldiers and men. Keeping (Sloka 5, Chapter 219, Vana Parva, M.B.) .
the retinue outside, Bharata went to the asrama of BHARADVAJA IV. A renowned sage. Bharata, a King
Bharadvaja. The latter decided to give Bharata and his of the Puru line of kings, had no sons and as he was
people a grand reception and calling Visvakarma to his spending his days in sorrow Marutta gave Bharata this
side asked him to arrange a royal
banquet that night. Bharadvaja as a son. Bharadvaja who was by birth a
Devas, Gandharvas, Apsarases, Astadikpalas and all brahmin from then onwards became a Ksatriya.
such people were invited for the night. Renowned dancers (Matsya Purana 49. 27-39 and Vayu Purana 99. 152-
from devaloka like Ghrtaci, Hema, VisvacI Misrakesi and 158).
Alambusa appeared for entertainment. Even Vanarajl BHARADVAJA V. A maharsi born of the line of Arigi-
took part in the dance. Dishes of food came to the ras. He was the father of Yavakrlta and a friend of
guests of their own accord. The night came to an end Raibhya, son of VisVamitra.
wonderfully and at daybreak everything vanished and Once Raibhya created a Kritya and that Kritya killed
all were amazed at the
magic of the sage. (Sarga 91, Bharadvaja's son Yavakrlta. Unable to bear the loss of his
Ayodhya Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana). son Bharadvaja was preparing to give up his own life
4) Drona's origin. Drona was the son born to Bhara- by jumping into the fire when Arvavasu brought to life
dvaja of the celestial woman, Ghrtaci. (see under Yavakrita and gave him to the sage. Immensely pleas-
Drona). ed at the regain of his son Bharadvaja ended his life
5) How Bharadvaja died once but was born again. See under on earth and went to heaven. (M.B., Vana Parva,
Arv'wasu. 165-168)
6 ) The name BLaradvdja. This is how the connotation of BHARADVAJA VI. A brahmarsi who lived in the Purva-
the word is explained. manvantara. He was living on the shore of Ganga
B hare 'su tan bhare sisyan doing rigorous penance. One day desirous of conduct-
Bhare devan bhare dvijfm ing a special type of Yajna he went to bathe in the
BHARADVAJA VII 1 18 BHARATA II
river along with other sages. There he saw the celes- Kanva Muni when he returned to the Airama andknew
tialbeauty, Ghrtaci, standing in all splendour after her everything, sent Sakuntala to the palace of Dusyanta.
bath. Bharadvaja had seminal emission and from that But King Dusyanta never recognised her and when
was born a daughter, Srutavati, to him. (Chapter 47, Sakuntala was returning deeply grieved Menaka her
Salya Parva, M.B.). mother, took her and left her in theasramaof KaSyapa.
BHARADVAJA VII. A great scholar well-versed in There Sakuntala delivered a son. The boy grew brave
all the Sustras. He is the author of 'Dharmasiitra' and and fearless and he could subdue even the wildest of
'Srautasiitra'. (The Visvavidyalaya of Bombay keeps animals around there. KaSyapa, therefore, named him
a hand written copy of his workSrautasiitra written in Sarvadamana.
I'andu script). Once when Dusyanta was returning home after visiting
BHARADVAJA I. A Maharsi. It was he who convinced Indra he saw Sakuntala, recognised her, and took her
Dyumatsena, father of Satyavan that he (Satyavan) and the boy to his palace. This was the boy who later
would be endowed with long life. (Vana Parva, Chapter on became known as Bharata. (Chapter 73, Adi Parva,
288, Verse 16). M.B.).
BHARADVAJA II. Thecollective name of a particular 3) Marriage and reign. Bharata was a partial incarna-
sect of preceptors mentioned in the Upanisads. The tion of Mahavisnu. Even while he was young he became
Brhadaranyaka Upanisad refers to this sect of preceptors a ruler and conquering the world destroyed the wicked.
as disciples of Bharadvaja, Piirasarya, Valaka, Kauika, Bharata had three wives. All the sons born to them
Aitareya, Asurayana and Baijavapayana. were bad and so the mothers killed them all. Aggrieved
BHARADVAJA III. A grammarian. According to the over the loss of his sons he worshipped the devas to
Rktantra, pratiSakhya of Samaveda, it was Brahma, get a son for him. At that time the great preceptor
who first composed the science of grammar. This Brhaspati forcibly married Mamata the wife of his
science was taught by Brahma to others in the following brother. Mamata was pregnant then and when she
order Brahma to Brhaspati, he to Indra, Indra to
:
conceived from Brhaspati also she bore two children.
Bharadvaja and he to his disciples. On delivery she threw the child of Brhaspati in the
Panini has discussed the grammatical concepts of Bhara- forests and went away with the other son.
dvaja. Rkpratisakhya and Taittiriya have quoted the The Devas took care of the discarded child and named
opinions of this grammarian. him Bharadvaja and gave the child to Bharata. Bharata
BHARADVAJA(M). A place of habitation in ancient gave the boy the name Vitatha (Dlrghatamas) Bharata .
Bharata. (Sloka 68, Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva, M.B.). ruled over his land for twentyseven thousand years and
BHARADVAjATlRTHA. One of the five sacred places the land was, therefore, called Bharata. (Sloka 96,
(bathing ghats in sacred rivers). (See Varga). Chapter 2, Adi Parva, M.B.) .
BHARADVAjI. A famous Indian river mentioned in After ruling the land ideally he left for the forests
the Puranas. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 29). entrusting the land to his son, Vitatha. (Navama
BHARADVAjIPUTRA. A preceptor, who was a dis- Skandha, Bhagavata) .
reaching the ASrama grounds he saw Sakuntala water- Kausalya, Kaikeyi and Sumitra. Kausaly.i gave birth
ins; the plants helped by her companions Anasuya and to Sri Rama, Kaikeyi to Bharata and Sumitra to
Priyamvada. Dusyanta and Sakuntala fell in love with Laksmana and Satrughna. Kaikeyi, mother of Bharata,
each other at first sight. Kanva was absent from the was the sister of Yudhajit, Raja of Kekeya. Bharata
Asrama and the/ married according to the Gandharva was born on the day of Puya. (Sloka 14, Sarga 18,
rites and Sakuntala became pregnant soon. The king Valmiki Ramayana)
gave her his signet ring as a sign of faith and left for DaSaratha remained in sorrow without children for a
his palace. When Dusyanta left her Sakuntala fell into very long time and then he performed a Putrakamesti
a deep reverie and she never knew about the arrival of yaga (A sacrificial ceremony to get children) with
the arrogant sage, Durvasas to the asVama. Durvasas the Maharsi Rsya'rnga as the officiating priest. From
mistook her as disrespectful and cursed her saying that the sacred fire arose a divine figure carrying a pot of
she would be forgotten by the man of whom she was pudding and it was after taking that pudding that the
thinking then. Sakuntala never knew about the curse wives of Da;aratha became pregnant. (Sarga 15,
also. Balaklnda, Valmiki Ramayana) .
BHARTA II 119 BHARATA III
ing sword and stood before his mother with the drawn BHARATA III. A son of Rsabha.
sword wavering to strike or not to strike and mused to 1
) Genealogy and Descending in order from Visnu-
birth.
himself "No, Not a woman and not one's own mother, Brahma Svayambhuvamanu - Priyavrata - Agnldhra-
-
Satrughna brought Bharata to his senses and he looked Ramya, Hiranvan, Kuru Bhadraiva and Ketumala. On
at his mother so fiendishly that at his stare his mother the death of the father Jambudvipa was divided into
turned pale like a flower brought near a burning flame. nine states and Nabhi got the land called Hima. Nabhi
Bharata immediately changed into the dress of a married Merudevi and got a son, Rsabha. Rsabha had
Sannyasi and started to go to the forests. Satrughna a hundred sons and Bharata was the eldest. (Chapter 1,
followed his brother. Vasistha also started. The news ArhSam 2, Visnu Purana) .
spread like wildfire and people began to crowd at the 2) Marriage, administration and entry into ASrama life.
palace eager to follow the brothers. Very soon a huge Bharata took over the administration of the kingdom
procession was seen moving towards the forests. Vasistha at the death of his father, Rsabha. He married Panca-
and ArundhatI in a chariot in the front, Kausalya and jani daughter of ViSvarupa. They had five sons, Sumati,
Sumitra in another next to it and Bharata and Satru- Rastrabhrt, Sudarsana, Avarana andDhumraketu. The
ghna closely following the chariots, walking. People Paiicama Skandha of Bhagavata contains a statement
joined the procession from behind. The great crowd to the effect that India got the name Bharata from
of people reached the banks of the river Gariga. Guha this king. (It is worthwhile remembering at this
coming to know of the great exile of people from juncture a previous statement that the name Bharata
Ayodhya through spies went and saw Bharata, at first was obtained from Bharata, son of Dusyanta). Bharata
in disguise, and later as himself made his like his forefather was very erudite and affectionate
acquaintance.
He then took Bharata and Satrughna across the river and always respected his duties. He always meditated
to the presence of Sri Rama at Citrakuta. on Brahma and in his heart there shone the Parama-
When they reached Citrakuta only Bharata-Satrughna, purusa in the figure of Vasudeva adorned with Srivatsa,
Vasistha and ArundhatI, Kausalya and Sumitra entered Kaustubha, Vanamala, Sarhkha, Cakra, Gada and
the agrarna of Sri Rama, all the others remaining out- Padma. He ruled the country for a crore of years and
side. When Rama and Laksmana were told about the
country among his sons went to
after that dividing the
death of their father they were filled with grief. All the the avrama of Pulaha Maharsi to spend the rest of his
sons, then, Vasistha officiating, performed the obsequies life there. On the rocks lying in the river flowing in
of their father. Rama and Bharata then discussed the front of the Asrama were the marks of Cakra on one
future. Sri Rama persisted in his vow and said he side and Nabhi on the other and the river therefore
would return to his country only after fourteen years came to be known as Cakranabhi. Bathing in this river
BHARATA III 120 BHARATA (MAHABHARATA)
and doing puja Bharata lived there oblivious of the bearers and so the brahmin was asked to join the
world outside. (Pancama Skandha, Bhagavata). team of bearers. As they were moving the palanquin
a purely ascetic shook because of the wrong steps kept by Bharata. The
3) Bharata and the deer. Bharata led
life performing everyday the rites laid down by king reprimanded Bharata and Bharata then gave the
scriptures and muttering the mystic formula
of Brahma- king fitting replies based on the ethics of Vedanta. The
ksara. One day a thirsty pregnant deer went to drink erudition of Bharata greatly impressed the king and he
water in a nearby pond. As it was drinking it heard stepped down from the palanquin and bowed to
the loud roar of a lion nearby. Frightened the poor Bharata.
animal without even waiting to quench its thirst ran Bharata went from there to the forests singing devo-
into the forest and on its way delivered a child and the tional songs in praise of Visnu and at last attained
deer-babe fell into the river. The deer exhausted and salvation. (Pancama Skandha, Bhagavata).
tormented by fear ran into a cave and fell down dead. BHARATA IV. A
and the famous author of Natya-
sage
Bharata happened to see the new-born deer floating sastra. He was who
lived around the year 400
a critic
on the river and took it to his asrama. From then on- B.C. His book on Natyasastra (Histrionics) is world
wards Bharata's mind was diverted from the spiritual famous. Kalidasa in the second act of his drama,
to the mundane effort of taking care of the young deer. Vikramorvaslya states that this Bharata used to coach
The deer followed him wherever he went and if it did the devas in the art of acting. NatyaSastra is a book
not turn up in time in the evening after grazing comprising thirtyseven chapters dealing with the art of
Bharata went about in search of it weeping. Years went dance and music. He has written in detail about the
by and Bharata became old and died with the name of four Alamkaras, Upama, DTpaka, Rupaka and Yamaka
the deer on his lips. (Pancama Skandha, Bhagavata). and also about the ten requisites of a Kavya. He has
4) Rebirths of Bharata. Because he died with the not forgotten to write about the defects and demerits
thought of the deer in his mind he was reborn as a of Kavya also. Commentaries on Nafyasastra have
deer. The deer was aware of his previous birth and been written by lions in the profession Mitragupta, :
regretted that he spent the life of a man for the sake Harsavardhana, Saiikuka, Udbhata, Bhattanayaka and
of a deer. The deer, therefore, left the house of his Abhinav agupta. Of these 'Abhinavabharat!' the com-
mother in the mountain of Kalanjara and went to the mentary written by Abhinavagupta is the only one
airama of Pulaha. The pious animal daily bathed in freely available now.
the river and died there on the bank of that river. So BHARATA V. The Mahabharata speaks about a few
in its next life the deer was born as the son of a
other Bharatas who were sons of Agni. Samyu is a son
brahmin in the line of Arigiras. That brahmin had two of Agni known as Bharata. This Bharata has got
wives and got nine sons of his first wife and one of the
another name, Urjja. (Sloka 6, Chapter 219, Vana
second. The son born to the second wife was none other
Parva, M.B.) There is>an Agni of name Bharata with
.
than Bharata. In due course the brahmin died and his a son named Bharata. When this Agni is propitiated
second wife jumped into the funeral pyre and ended her one gets healthy and strong and so this Agni is called
life. Thrown an orphan Bharata became a puppet in
Pustiman also. (Sloka 7, Chapter 219, Vana Parva,
the hands of his brothers. Bharata was asked to look
after the cattle and fields of his brothers for his living.
M.B.). There is another Bharata son of an Agni
called Adbhuta. It is this Agni that burns dead bodies.
With great forbearance Bharata did all he was told. As this Agni lives permanently in Agnistoma Yajnas; it
One day Bharata was keeping watch over the fields of
gets the name of Niyata also. (Sloka 6, Chapter 222,
his brothers. It was midnight. In the neighbourhood
Vana Parva, M.B.) .
being with his head cut off to propitiate a deity). On Bharata is acclaimed as the first emperor of Bharata.
the way the man escaped and the disappointed The theme of this great epic is the fight between the
Candalas were roaming about in search of a substitute two lines of princes belonging to the dynasty of Bharata.
when they came across Bharata keeping watch over That is why the book is called Mahabharata.
the Immediately he was bound by ropes and
fields. The great of the volume and the greatness of
size
taken before the idol of Kali. The effulgence of the the wisdom contained therein have contributed much
brahmin astounded Kali and getting angry for bringing to its getting the name, Mahabharata. Once the
such a pious brahmin for sacrifice she devoured the devas put the Mahabharata in one pan of a balance
Candalas and allowed the brahmin to go free. and the Vedas in the other pan. Then the devas
Escaping from there Bharata reached a village walking were convinced that the Mahabharata weighed more
all the way. That village was being ruled over Vedas put together. (Slokas 269-271,
by a than all the
king called Rahiigana and that king was going to see Chapter Adi Parva, M.B. ).* This book contains
1,
Bhagavan Kapila Maharsi along the banks of the river over a lakh of verses. There is no subject on earth
Iksumati in a palanquin. The palanquin had not enough which is not dealt with in the Mahabharata. None of
* Pura kila suraih sarvaih saroetya tulaya dhrtam
Caturbhyah sarahasyebhyo Vcdebhyo hyadhikam yada
Tada prabhiti loke'smin mahabharatamucyate
Mahatve ca gurutve ca dhriyamanaih yaso'dhikam
Mahatvad bharavatvac ca Mahabharatamucyate.
BHARATA (MAHABHARATA) 121 BHARATA (MAHABHARATA)
the world's epics so big as Mahabharata. In size the
is (7) Kama Parva. (Karna=The third generalissimo).
Mahabharata double that of Homer's Iliad and
is This Parva deals with the war under the command of
Odyssey put together. The following poem about it is Kama. Kama fell in the end at the hands of Arjuna.
worth mentioning now :
(8) Salya Parva. (Salya = The fourth and last of the
Yatha samudro bhagavan Generalissimos). When Kama
fell Salya took over
Yatha ca himavan girih / charge of the Kaurava army. As the war was coming to
Khyatavubhau ratnanidhi an end most of the big warriors of the Kaurava army
Tatha bharatamucyate // were killed. In the end Bhlma and Duryodhana met
Mahabharata is not a mere epic. It is a whole literature in a grim fight with maces in which
Duryodhana was
in itself containing a philosophy which has been an killed. This Parva deals with the final stage of the
unfailing and perennial source of spiritual strength to battle.
the people of India. Above all it has for its core the (10) Sauptika Parva. (Sauptika=pertaining to sleep).
Gita which is perhaps the noblest of scriptures. This Parva tells us the tragic story of how
Kfpacarya,
The Mahabharata comprises eighteen books, each book Krtavarma and Asvatthama. who were the only three
being called a Parva. There are 2109 chapters in it, the left with Duryodhana after the great battle went into
chapters differing in size. Besides, there is an annexe the camp of the Pandavas at night and killed all the
called Harivamsa which deals with the life and history brave warriors of the Pandava army, excepting the
of Sri Krsna. Pandavas, who were sleeping in their camp unaware of
2) Contents. The contents of each Parva are succinctly the foul play lying ahead.
given below: The Parvas are so named as to give a (11) Stri Parva. (Stri =woman) This Parva deals with
.
hint of their central theme. the great lamentation in the battlefield, after the war,
(1) Adi Parva. (Adi= beginning) Pandu and Dhrta-
. of Gandharl and other women.
rastra, king of the Candra dynasty, are brothers. Bhisma (12) Sdnti Parva. Yudhisthira was crowned king and
brought them up. Dhrtarastra was born blind and he even at that time Bhisma was lying on his bed of arrows
got a hundred children of his wife Gandharl. They awaiting death. Before taking up his duties of the state
were called the Kauravas. Pandu had two wives KuntI Yudhisthira went to where the grandsire lay dying and
and Madri and got of them five sons called the took his blessing and instruction in dharma. This
Pandavas headed by the eldest Yudhisthira. instruction of Bhlsmacarya to King Yudhisthira of the
=
(2) Sabha Parva (Sabha court) The Pandavas and
. three dharmas, Rajadharma, Apaddharma and Moksa-
Kauravas lived together in the court at Hastinapura. dharma is the famous fSanti Parva.
There, the Kauravas entered into a game of dice with (13) AnuSasana Parva. (AnuSasana = Instruction).
Yudhisthira and through the deceitful tactics engineer- Bhisma still on his death-bed continues his instructions
ed by the keen-witted Sakuni, Yudhisthira was defeated on several topics, like duty, freedom and fasting, giving
and he lost everything he possessed. The Pandavas entertaining stories to illustrate the essence of his teach-
were then compelled to go into exile to the forests for ing. This Parva is devoted to this.
twelve years and spend another year after that incog- (14) ASvamedhika Parva. (Asvamedha = yaga conduct-
nito. If they were found out during that period of ed by emperors) This Parva deals with the yaga
.
incognito they were to go into exile for another term conducted by Yudhisthira when he became the empe-
of twelve years. The Pandavas accompanied by Pancall ror of Bharata.
left for the forests. (15) Aframavasika Parva. (A$ramavasa = life in a her-
(3) Vana Parva (Vana= forest). This is one of the mitage) Dhrtarastra,
. the blind and his wife Gandharl
longest of Parvas and describes the life of the Pandavas accompanied by KuntI left for the forests and lived
in the forest Kamyaka. The well known stories 'Nala there for two years in a hermitage. One day the forest
Carita' and 'Kiratarjuniya' are told in this Parva'. caught fire and the three without trying to escape sat
(4) Virata Parva. (Virata
= name of a King) . The Pandav- on the ground facing eastwards in yoga posture and
as after completing their term of exile in the forests spent calmly gave up themselves to the flames. This is dealt
the year of their life in incognito at the court of King with in this Parva.
Virata. Many wonderful events took place during their (16) Mausala Parva. (Mausala = Mace). This Parva
stay there and this Parva deals in detail about gives the story of how
the Yadavas fought against each
them. other with maces and were destroyed and how
(5) B hif ma Parva (Bhisma = The first Generalissimo of Dvaraka sank down into the ocean. It describes the
the Kauravas). The great Mahabharata war was fought death of Sri Krsna and Balarama also.
in the vast expanse of Kuruksetra lying to the north- (17) Mahaprasthanika Parva. (Mahaprasthana=Death) .
west of Delhi. Bhisma was the first generalissimo of the Dharmaputra entrusts his kingdom to his successor and
Kauravas and Dhrstadyumna of the Pandavas. Vyasa alongwith his four brothers and wife Panca.ll sets out
describes the events of the battle classifying it accord- on a long journey to Mahameru never to return. This
ing to the generalissimos of the Kaurava army giving journey to death is detailed in this Parva.
the four generalissimos a Parva each. Bhisma fought (
1
8) Svargarohana Parva. (Svarga
= Heaven) This Parva
.
for ten days and was struck down on the tenth day by describes the entry of the Pandavas and their relatives
an arrow from Arjuna. into Svarga, heaven.
(6) Drona Parva ( Drona = The second Generalissimo). 3) Mode of Narration. Most of the verses in the
When Bhisma fell Drona took charge as the supreme Mahabharata are in the Anustup metre. At certain
commander. This Parva deals with the fight under his places other metres also have been used. There are
command. Drona was killed in the end by prose pieces also in it. There are twenty notable pieces,
dyumna. three in Adi Parva, seven in Vana Parva, seven in Santi
BHARATA (MAHABHARATA) 122 BHARATA (MAHABHARATA)
Parva and three in AnuSasana Parva. All the pieces are accretionscame to be known as Bharatasamhita. Suta
statements by realised souls. The style of the poetry is who narrated this story to Saunaka and others at the
simple and the method of presentation lively. At times forest of Naimisa added some more matter to the
the imagination of the poet extends up to the horizon. Bharatasamhita and made it larger. The present
Though there is a flow of spiritualism throughout the Mahabharata this
expanded edition.
is
matter is purely mundane. The following facts prove that the Mahabharata has
4) Authorship. Bhagavan Vyasa is believed to be the thus passed through three stages of evolution:
author of Mahabharata. He was a contemporary of the 1 This book is known by three names Jaya, Bharata-
) :
Pandavas and the Kauravas. Many of the events of the samhita and Mahabharata. 1
VaiSampayana gave this book great publicity. They (Sloka 13, Chapter 2, Adi Parva) .
wrote books based on this story of Bharata of which So it can be deduced that the great war was fought
only the 'Bharata' of Vaisampayana and the ASva- round about 3102 B.C. Dhrtaraslra lived for eighteen
medha Parva of Jaimini are now available.
years after the great battle and the Pandavas ruled the
Vyasa's Bharata was first expounded by Vaisampayana country for 36 years. (Stri Parva, M.B.). It was when
at the Sarpa-satra of Janamejaya. At the request of Sri Krsna died that the Pandavas ended their rule
Janamejaya, VaiSampayana added some more facts to and commenced the Mahaprasthana. So it can be sur-
the original work known then as 'Jaya'. Jaya with the mised that Sri Krsna lived for 36 years after the war.
of the Pandavas. Vyasa took three years to complete was Ilavrta and to the east was Bhadravarsa. To the
his work. Therefore it can be well concluded that south-east was Hiranyaka and to the south was Bharata.
Vyasa wrote the epic in 3100 B.C. The Pandavas To the southwest was Hari and to the west was Ketu-
commenced their Mahaprasthana after entrusting the mala. To the north-west was cambaka and to the north
administration of the state into the hands of Pariksit. was Kuruvarsa. Beautiful Kirhpurusa varsa stood to the
This must have happened in 3102 B.C. Pariksit ruled north-east of Ilavrta. There was neither the passage of
the country for 60 years and so his son Janamejaya time nor the fear of ageing or death in any of these
became King in 3Q42 B.C. It was after two years of continents excepting Bharatavarsa.
his becoming King that he conducted the Sarpasatra This Bharatavarsa itself is a group of nine islands
and it was at this Sarpasatra that Vaisampayana first each separated from the other by oceans and thus made
expounded 'Jaya' (Mahabharata) to the sages assembl- not easily accessible between each other. Indradvipa,
ed there.
Ka^eruman, Tamraparna, Gabhastiman, Nagadvipa,
This fixing of the date of Mahabharata is based on the Kataha, Simhala and Varuna are the eight others and the
conclusions arrived at by the pandits of Bharata, but ninth is of Bharatavarsa. This island is called
this island
foreign chronologists differ from us. They argue that Kumara also. On the eastern
boundary of this island live
it was in the 10th
century B.C. that the Mahabharata Kiratas, on the western side, Yavanas, on the southern
battle took place on the strength of the following: boundary Andhras and on the north Turuskas. In the
Centre live the Brahmins, Ksatriyas, Vaisyas and Sudras.
The theme of the Mahabharata is a fight between
Kurus and Pancalas. After the war the two join and The eight sacred mountains of this place are Mahendra,
there is a statement in the Yajurveda of a people Malaya, Sahya, Suktiman, Rksaparvata, Vindhya and
formed by the merger of the two. Therefore the great Pariyatra. There are several other mountains also in
war should have happened in the 10th century B.C. It Madhyapradesa. They are: Kolahala, Vaibhraja, Man-
was a period of hero-worship and songs on the heroic dara, Durddhara, Vatadhuma, Vaidyuta, Mainaka,
deeds of the Kurus and Pandavas were sung and Sarasa, Tungaprastha, Nagagiri, Govardhana, Ujjayan-
handed over from one generation to the other and ta, Puspagiri, Arbuda, Raivataka, Rsyamuka, Gomanta,
Citrakufa, Krtasmara, Sriparvata and Konkana. This
gradually those songs took shape in the form of the
Mahabharata. place is inhabited by Aryas and Mlecchas. The rivers
which they use for drinking water are the following:
There is another school of thought. In the Maha-
SarasvatI, Pancarupa, Kalindl, Hiranvatt, Satadru,
bharata, Brahma is given great prominence. But in Madhura,
Candrika, Nila, Vitasta, IravatI, Kuhu,
Vedic times Brahma was not counted at all. During
Ha.rara.vi, Usira, Dhataki, Rasa, GomatI, Dhutapapa,
the golden period of the Buddhists Brahma had a cons-
Bahuda, Drsadvati, Nisvara, Gandaki, Citra, Kausiki,
picuous hold on Hinduism. Therefore it should be
deduced that the Mahabharata was written during the Vadhusara, Sarayu and Lohitya. All these rivers origi-
nate from the base of Himavan. Those originating
6th century B.C. Then there were about 8,000 verses
from Pariyatra are: Vedasmrti, Vedasvani, Vrtraghni,
in the Mahabharata.
Sindhu, Parnas"a, Nandim, PavanI, Mahl, Sara, Carm-
Towards the second stage of Mahabharata the epic manvatt, Lupi, Vidila, VenumatI, Citra and Oghavatl.
grew in size bringing into its fold about 24,000 Slokas. Those flowing down from the Rksaparvata are: Sona
It was at this stage that the Mahabharata alias Mahanada, Narmada, Surasa, Kriya, Mandakini,
got a vaisna-
vite colour and Sri Krsna was adored as an incarnation Das'arna, Citrakuta, Devika, Citrotpala, Tamasa, Kara-
of Visnu. Megasthenes who visited India in 300 B.C. toya, Pisacika, Pippalasreni, Vipasa, Vaiijjulavati,
records that the majority of Hindus were vaisnavites Satsantaja, Suktimati, Cakrini, Tridiva, Vasu, Valgu-
at that period. There are references in certain
parts vahinl. From the base of Vindhya flow down the follow-
Marmaka. The states lying to the north are the follow- BHARGAVA. One who belongs to the Bln'gu dynasty.
Abhlra, Kalatoyada, Aparanta, Sudra, Pahlava, Khe- BHARGAVA (M) A city in ancient India. (Bhlsma Parva,
.
Satadrava, Lalittha, Paravata, Musika, Mathara, Uruka- BHARMYASVA. A famous kin? of Pancfila Desa. He had
five heroic sons headed by Mudgala. (Navama Skandha,
dhara, Kekaya, Darhsana, Kamboja, Darada, Ahga,
Lokika, Vena, Tusara, Bahya, Todara, Atreya, Bhara- Bhagavata) .
a brahmin sleeping on the doorstep, tired and exhaust- It was this wretched and unfaithful woman whom I was
ed. She soon asked her servants to get him inside and believing to be very chaste and loving. Woman can never
sent for a doctor. By the clever treatment of the doctor be believed. Look, she has fallen in love with an ugly-
and the expert nursing of Mandakini, Vidyasagara sur- looking servant of mine and unless he was her lover she
vived.When he was fit for travel he started to go but would not have given this mango to him. It is better
Mandakini objected and requested him to marry her. that this matter is not pursued any further now. We
Vidyasagara did not agree to it and she took him to the will decide about the future course of action later".
King and told him all that had happened. Finding Thinking thus, he sent away the horse-groom and went
Vidyasagara to be one with great erudition and good to his bed-chamber and lay there immersed in thoughts.
manners he decided that Vidyasagara should marry The horse-groom immediately informed the queen of
his daughter (a Ksatriya), daughter of his minister everything that took place and the queen felt sorry that
(a brahmin) , daughter of Kulapati (a vaisya) , and her secret had come to light. She knew that besides the
also Mandakini (a Sudra). There was an injunction in punishment that her lover would get her name would
those days that a brahmin should marry a Sudra only also be blackened and so decided to kill her husband
after having married from all the higher castes. The before the affair became public. At once she made an
decision of the King surmounted this difficulty for oftata (flat bread made of wheat or rice) with poison in
Vidyasagara to marry the sudra girl, Mandakini. it and bringing it to the bed-room told her husband thus
Marriages were all conducted in order. The King's with much pretended affection. "It will take some time
daughter bore the name Kalavatl, the minister's Malati for your lunch to be ready. Let not you lie with an
and Kulapati's Sumangall. Each delivered a son. The empty stomach. Eat this now". So saying she placed
brahmin boy was named Vararuci, the Ksatriya boy, the bread in the hands of Bhartrhari and left the room.
Vikramaditya, the Vaisya boy, Bhajti and the (Sudra Bhartrhari suspected foul play and mused "This bread
boy, Bhartrhari. has been prepared by her with poison to kill me. It is
2) Kingship. When the King ofKaliiiga became old better to give up living with her. There is no doubt
he gave the kingdom to Vidyasagara and when Vidya- about it. Of the four asramas the fourth, Sannyasa, is
bagara died all his other sons made Bhartrhari the King. the best. It is pleasant and sorrowless. Therefore gra-
Bhartrhari gave his father on his death-bed a promise dually that agrama should be accepted". Thinking thus
that he would see that no sons were born to him. 1 he came out from his room with the bread and placed
So though Bhartrhari married three wives he was care- it hidden somewhere in the lower end of the roof of the
ful enough not to produce any children by them. house remarking "Ottappam Vitteccutum" (The Ottawa
3 ) Dharlrhari becomes a sannyasi. Bhartrhari was living will burn the house). Then taking an earthern bowl for
happily with his wife when one day a yogi of divine begging he left the house unnoticed by any. The moment
disposition came to his house and giving him a ripe Bhartrhari left the house the house caught fire and
mango said; "If you eat this mango you will never everything in it was burnt to ashes.
become old. It is because you who are perfect in edu- Bhartrhari renouncing all and changing himself into
cation and fortune should live long for the benefit of the robes of a sannyasi went about living by begging.
the people that I am giving you this." So saying he After some time he decided that he would never beg but
gave the mango and left the place. When the sannyasi would eat only that which others gave him voluntarily.
left him Bhartrhari thought thus: "After some years He had by that time reached a big temple 2 in south
my wife would become old and die. What is the use India where in one of the entrances to the temple, the
of my remaining alive after she is gone. So this mango east one, was sitting the famous sannyasi Pattanatt
should be given to her. Let her live long." He, Pillayar. Bhartrhari, therefore, went and sat at the
therefore, gave the mango to his wife explaining western entrance with his bowl before him. Whatever
to her the greatness of the fruit. That wife whom poor food fell into the bowl was eaten by him. Sometimes
Bhartrhari accepted to be very loving and chaste for days together he went without food. But he never
had a lover. He was none other than the horse- was sick or felt weak.
1. There is a belief that if a son is born to a Sudra who was himself born of a brahmin the brahmin father would go to bell.
2. This temple is believed to be the Chidambaram Temple.
BHARTRSTHANA (M) i26 BHASl
One day a beggar went to the eastern gate and asked Ramayana, it is clear that Bhasa lived after Valmiki.
Patfanatt Pillayar for alms. Pillayar said, "I am also a Kalidasa's period has not yet been fixed beyond doubt.
It is almost settled that Bana lived sometime between the
beggar like you. I have nothing in my hand to give you.
But there is a man sitting in the western gate. He is a sixth and seventh centuries A.D. Prof. Keith has been
rich man and he may give you something". The beggar of the view that Valmiki lived before the 4th century
went to Bhartrhari and asked for alms. Bhartrhari B.C. In the light of all such factors it could be presumed
also expressed his helplessness in the matter. But then that Bhasa lived in the period between the 4th century
the beggar said "The man sitting at the opposite entrance B.C. and 6th century A.D.
told me that you were a rich man." Bhartrhari smiled. Though Bhas^a has so many glories to his credit he does
He knew then why Pattanatt Pillayar said so. A man who not fully match Kalidasa, and this might have been the
has renounced everything need not keep even a bowl to reason why Indians did almost forget Bhasa with the
beg. The bowl was a luxury and a sign of wealth. advent of Kalidasa on the literary arena.
Bhartrhari threw away the bowl and remained at the We are not in a position to name with unerring definite-
temple entrance till the end of his life. It was while ness the works of Bhasa. The general belief is that he
sitting there that he wrote his
famous poems. has written nearly twenty three dramas. In 1922, Pandit
4) His well-known works are: (1 ) The Niti Sataka (2) Ganapati Sastrl unearthed from various sources thirteen
The SVngara Sataka (3) The Vairagya Sataka and (4) dramas of Bhasa. Three out of them, viz. Pratima-
The Subhasitas. yaugandharayana, Svapnavasavadatta and Avima-
BHARTRSTHANA (M). A
very holy place in ancient raka owe their themes to the Brhatkatha, while Prati-
India. It is said that even those who merely visited this ma nataka and Abhiseka nataka have Ramayana as
place would get the benefit of performing an Asvamedha their basic inspiration. Out of the eight remaining
yajna. The place got its importance because Lord dramas six, viz. Madhyama vyayoga, Pancaratra, Duta-
Subrahmanya lived there. (Sloka 76, Chapter 84, Vana vakya, Dutaghatotkaca, Karnabhara and Orubhanga
Parva, M'.B.) owe their themes to the Mahabharata, while the last
BHARU. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. The prajapati, two dramas, Balacarita and Carudatta are dependent
at one stage begot sixty girls of Vairini and gave them themes on anecdotes about Sri Krsna and on
for their
to Kasyapa, who distributed them among several Devas. yaksa stories.
Bharu was the woman so given to the Visvadevatas. Though Dr. Ganapati Sastri has strongly contended that
(Hari Varhsa, Chapter 3). all the above thirteen dramas were written by Bhasa
BHARUKA. A king of the Solar dynasty. He was the himself, his view has not yet received universal accep-
son of Sudeva and father of Bahuka. (Navama Skanda, tance. Whatever that be, it is an admitted fact that
Bhagavata ) .
Svapnavasavadatta is by far the best among the thirteen
BHARUKAKSA(M). A village of ancient India. dramas. It is a continuation of the story of Pratijnayau-
Sudras lived there. At that time of the Rajasuya of gandharayana. The wedding of king Udayana and
Dharmaputra these Sudras brought gifts to the King. Vasavadatta is the subject matter of Svapnavasava-
(Chapter 51, Sabha Parva). datta.
BHARUIVDA. A particular kind of bird found in the With his killing of the Raksasa 'Avi' the Sauvira king
Kingdom called Uttarakuruvarsa. These birds carry in comes to be known as Avimara, and Avimara's falling
their strong beak corpses to their caves and eat them. in love with Kurarigi, daughter of Kuntibhoja forms the
(Bhlsmaparva, Chapter 7, Verse 12). theme of the drama, Avimaraka. In Pratima nataka
BHARYA. Wife. Bhisma points out the sanctified impor- is told the story narrated in Ramiiyana from Ayodhya-
tance of Bharyii (wife) as follows: kanda to Pattabhiseka. Abhiseka nataka codifies the
Without her even the palace will prove itself to be just a stories in theKiskindha Kanda and Sundara Kanda of
forest. She will be a great support (to the husband ) in the Ramayana and describes the coronations of Sugrlva
the matter of dharma (duty ) artha (wealth ) and Kama and of Sri Rama. Though the characters in Pancaratra
(enjoyment of material comforts ) (These three precede
. are borrowed from Mahabharata the story is entirely
the ultimate state of Moksa (salvation) and the wife will Bhasa's. Madhyama vyayoga, Datavakya, Dutaghatot-
be a great support in fulfilling the conditions during the kaca, Karnabhara and Urubhaiiga are one-act plays.
first three stages.) While on tour in foreign places she These five plays have as their basis some of the anecdotes
will remain faithful to him and instil confidence in him. in the Mahabharata. In Carudatta is treated the love
Bharya is great wealth to man. story of Carudatta and Vasantasena.
In his forlorn life on earth the wife is of great help to Indisputable evidence is still lacking to credit Bhasa
man. To him, who is suffering from diseases and is with the authorship of all the thirteen plays referred to
otherwise in distress there is no remedy (medicine) like above.
a good wife. There is no relative like a wife. In the BHASAS. (See Bhasi).
matter of practising dharma there is no other support to BHASAKARIV'A. A military captain of Ravana. Hanu-
match the wife. If one has no good wife to take care of man killed him in fight. (Valmiki Ramayana, Sundara
domestic affairs one will be driven to the forest; the Kanda 46, 47).
home will be like a forest. (Santi Parva, Chapter 144). BHASl. Daughter of Tamra, Daksa's daughter. Kasyapa
BHASA. A very prominent dramatist in Sanskrit. As prajapati married the following daughters of Daksa:
Ba.ua and Kalidasa have noticed him in their works, Aditi, Diti,Danu, Kalika, Tamra, Krodhavasa, Manu
it may safely be assumed that Bhasa lived in an earlier and Anala. Tamra had five daughters, viz. Kraunci,
period. Since Pratima. nataka and Abhiseka na{aka, Bhasi, Syeni, DhrtarAstrl and Suki. And, the sons of
which are universally admitted to have been composed Bhasi are the Deva sect called the Bhasas. (Valmiki
by Bhasa, depend for their themes on the Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Canto 14).
BHASKARA 127 BHAVABHOTI
BHASKARA. One of the Dvadasadityas born of Kasyapa Agnldhra, Yukta and Jita. At that time, the sons of
prajapati
and (Anusasana 1 arva, Verse 150).
Aditi. Manu who will be protecting the earth will be Uru,
BHASKARACARYA. A master astronomer of ancient gariibhirabuddhi and other Kings. (Visnu Purana,
India. It was he who declared, much earlier than western 3rd Part, Chapter 2).
experts, that
the earth is round in shape. BHAUMA II. Another name of Narakasura. (See the
BHA.SKAR1. An old maharsi of India. He accompanied word Narakasura).
the Rsis who visited Bhisma on his bed of arrows. (Santi BHAUMA III. A Raksasa born to Sirhhika by Vipracitti.
Parva, Chapter 47, \erse 12). Parasu-Rama
killed him. (Brahmaiula 3-6-18-22).
BHASMA. (Sacred ash). To know a story about the BHAUTYA. See the word Manvantara.
greatness of Bhasma
see under the word Durjaya. BHAVA I. One of the eleven Rudras. He was the son of
BHASMASURA. A demon. There is no mention about Sthanu and grandson of Brahma. (Chapter 66, Adi
this demon in any of the Sanskrit puranas but 'Sivall- Parva, M.B.).
lamrta' in Marathi contains the following story about BHAVA II. A sanatana Visvadeva. (Chapter 60, Adi
him. Parva, M.B.).
Bhasmasura was born of the Bhasma dust (ashes) on BHAVA III. One of the sons born to Kasyapa of Sura-
the body of Siva. Pleased at the great devotion of the bhi.
demon towards him Siva asked him to name any boon BHAVA (M) I. A famous forest mentioned in the
he wanted. Bhasmasura said that he wanted the power Puranas. Bhava was near the Venumanda mountain,
to burn to ashes anybody on whose head he placed his which was close to Dvaraka..
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 38).
hand. Bhasmasura became arrogant with the boon BHAVA. One
of the twelve Devas born to Bhrguvaruni
and he became a nightmare to the whole world. Then Rsi of his wife Divya.
Mahavisnu appeared before him in the form of MohinI, BHAVABHUTI. A Sanskrit poet who lived in the 7th
an attractive dancer and alluring him by her charm century A.D. His important works are the three dramas,
started on a dance called Muktanrtya. During the course Malatlmadhava, Mahaviracarita and Uttararama-
of this dance Bhasmasura was forced to place his hand carita. Bhavabhuti was a brahmin of the Kasyapa-
on his own head and the moment his head touched his gotra. He was the son of one Nilakantha and one Jatu-
head he was burnt to ashes. karnl. He was a great devotee of Siva and he got his
BHASVARA. One of the two attendants presented by name Bhavabhuti later because, of this. His original
Surya to Subrahmanya; the other was named Subh- name was Nilakantha. Bhavabhuti was born in Padma-
raja. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 31). pura in the state of Vidarbha. But Bhavabhuti spent
BHATTANARAYANA. A Sanskrit poet who flourished most of his life in the palace of Yasodharma, king of
near about A.D. 700. Venlsaihhara, a drama in six Kannauj.
acts is the only composition of his found out, yet. He Bhavabhiiti's first drama is believed to be Mahavira-
is also known by another name, Mrgarajalaksma. carita. There are seven The theme is based
acts in this.
Certain scholars opine that he might have lived before on the story of Sri Rama. But there are some variations
Bana and after Vamana. from the original Ramayana in this drama. Bhava-
BHA TTANAYAKA. A literary critic who flourished in bhuti states that even at the time of the svayamvara of
the 10th century A.D. in India. He composed a critical Slta, Ravana was a suitor. There is an opinion among
study on the science of dance (Na{ya) named Hrdaya- certain critics that Bhavabhuti did write only up to the
darpana based on the Natya sastra of Bharata. But, 46th verse in the fourth act and the rest was written
the book has not been found out, yet. Contesting the by another poet named Subrahmanya.
dhvanivada (the rhetorical theory that in poetry sugges- Malatlmadhava is a drama often acts. It is a love-story
ted or implied meaning is superior to the explicit mean- of MalatI and Madhava. Malatl was the daughter of the
ning) of Anandavardhanacarya, he established the rasa- minister of Ujjayini and Madhava was the son of the
vada (that sentiment is supreme in poetry). Abhi- minister of Vidarbha. It was while Madhava was having
navagupta also has supported the rasavada. Hence, his education in Ujjayini that he came to love Malatl.
it
may be inferred that Bhattanayaka lived in the period It was Kamandaki who was a classmate of both the
after Anandavardhana and anterior to Abhinavagupta. ministers and who became a sannyasini later who pulls
Bhattanayaka's theory is that Abhidha, Bhavakatvarh the strings of this love story. The king of Ujjayini wanted
and Bhojakatvam should be the three excellences of Malatl to marry Nandana, a friend of his. But Malatl
good poetry. did not love him. Yet afraid of getting the displeasure of
BHAi'TI. A Sanskrit poet who lived in the 7th century the King, Malati's father decided to give her in marriage
A.D. His most important composition is the Maha- to Nandana. In despair Madhava was about to commit
kavya, Ravanavadha, which has become very popular suicide when from the temple nearby Madhava heard
and famous by the name Bhattikavya. This mahakavya an agonised weeping. He rushed to the site of the sound
deals with the story of Ramayana in its twentytwo and found to his bewilderment the gruesome sight of
Kandas (cantos). The kavya is believed to have been Malatl being dragged for sacrifice by a sorceress named
composed at Valabhl in obedience to the request of Kapalakundala helped by her guru Aghoraghanta.
King Srldharasena. Madhava killed Aghoraghanta and saved Malatl.
BHAUMA I. The fourteenth Manu. In the time of this Disappointed KapalakundaLi swore that she would
Manu, the person called Suci will be Indra. Under his seek revenge on Madhava and disappeared. Malatl
control there will be five groups of Devas. These groups went back to her palace. At this time Madayaritika,
are called Caksusas, Pavitras, Kanisthas, Bhrajikas sister of Nandana and Makaranda, a friend of Madhava
and Vapavrddhas. The Saptai sis (seven sages) of that became lovers. Once Madayantika was attacked by a
Manvantara are Agnibahu, Suci, Sukra, Magadha, tiger in a Siva temple and Makaranda
saved her from
BHAVADA 128 BHlMA
the wild beast, and they became lovers thereafter. The with almost all subjects on earth including such impor-
proposal to give Malati in marriage to Nandana was tant ones like, Srsti (creation), Kalamana (lime),
still
pending then. The marriage day was fixed and a Garbhadhana (conception), Godana (gift of cows),
day before that by a clever ruse played by the keen- Asramadharmas (duties of a hermit) Linga Sastra
witted Kamandaki Mulati and Madhava eloped together. (science of sex), Visacikitsa (treatment of poisoning)
Makaranda, friend of Madhava, was disguised and dressed and Ayurveda (Medical science). (Chapter 272, Agni
in bridal robes and Nandana little suspecting the trick 1'urana).
played on him married the substitute. Before they went BHAVLSYARAMAYA". A. The part after Uttararama-
to the bridal chamber for the night Nandana's sister yana. Uttararamayana states about Bhavisyaramayana
came to see her new sister-in-law and the moment she being sung by Kus'a and Lava in the presence of Sri
put her eyes on her she understood who it was and that Rama.
night they also eloped. Thus poor Nandana was left BHAVUKA. A king of the solar dynasty. He was the
alone. son of Ravlya and father of Cakroddhata. (Bhagavata,
Kapalakundala by her sorcery separated Malati from Navama Skandha).
Madhava but luckily Saudaminl a disciple of Kaman- BHAVYAI. A son of Dhruva. He got of his wife Sambhu
taki saved her from Kapalakundala. Later Malati two sons, Sisti and Bhavya. (Chapter 13, Arhsa 1,
married Madhava with the permission of the King. Visnu Purana).
This is the story of Malati-Madhava. BHAVYA II. A clan of devas in Raivatamanvantara.
Uttararamacarita is a play of seven acts. The theme is Parimiti, Priyaniscaya, Mali, Mana, Vicetasa, Vijaya,
the story of Rama after his return to Ayodhya after the Sujaya and Syoda are some of the prominent devas of
exile. It begins with the renouncement of Slta by Rama the clan. (Brahmanda Purana, 2.36, 71-72).
and ends with the vanishing of Slta. BHAVYA III. One of the Saptarsis (seven sacred
All these three dramas used to be enacted during the saints)of Daksasavarni Manvantara.
festival of 'Kalapriyanatha
'
at Ujjayini. The predomi- BHAYA. A demoness, sister of Kala who presides over
nant emotion in Mahavlracarita is 'Vira', in Malati- the land of death. She was married to Heti, son of
Madhava, 'Srrigara' and in Uttararamacarita 'Karuna'. Brahma, and brother of Praheti. Vidyutkesa was their
In expressing and elaborating the emotion of 'Karuna' son and he married Salakantaka, daughter of Sandhya.
Bhavabhuti excels Kalidasa. The one draw-back which (Uttara Ramayana).
keeps him second to Kalidasa is his lack of humour and BHAYA (M ) Himsa is the wife of Adharma. They got
.
Bhima did very easily kill him. (For details see Kir- Pasupatastra from Siva and he duly returned to his
mlra ) .
brothers, and the Pandavas continued their journey in
Thus the Pandavas spent their days once again in the the forest.
Kamyaka forest under the spiritual leadership of sage Meantime, knowing that the Pandavas were put up in
Dhaumya. They thought about their lost kingdom. Dvaitavana, the Kauravas started for their dwelling
Should they go to war against the Kauravas or should place in a procession led by Duryodhana with the army
they spend the rest of their lives in the exercise of dharmic and camped nearly two furlongs away from a pool in
injunctions ? At one time Bhima advised Yudhis{hira Dvaitavana. While thus camping Duryodhana clashed
against war; but on another occasion he pleaded vehe- with a Gandharva called Citrasena, who with a number
mently in favour of war. It was during this time that of his comrades came to the pool for water games,
Arjuna went to the Himalayas to please Siva by penance and in the encounter the latter made Duryodhana
and get from him the Pasupatastra. (Arrow called prisoner. Bhlmasena who witnessed the scene very
much
Pasupata). The Pandavas naturally got nervous and laughed at Duryodhana. But, Arjuna intervened and
upset at the rather long absence of Arjuna; Bhima was set free Duryodhana and others.
more anxious and sorry than the others. Then the The Pandavas again entered the Kamyaka forest, and
Pandavas set out in search of Arjuna, and travelled upto it was at that time that Jayadratha abducted Pancali.
Mount Gandhamadana. Then the party got so tired Bhima killed Kotikasya who acted on behalf of Jaya-
(See Kotikasya). Moreover Bhima captured
that they could not
proceed any further. Pancall fell dratha.
down fainting. Then Bhima remembered Ghatotkaca, Jayadratha, got his head shaved clean and declared
that
who appeared before his father (Bhima) at once. As he was a slave of Dharmaputra. It was here at Dvaita-
directed by Bhima Ghatotkaca mounted the Pandavas vana that Dharmadeva tested the Pandavas, who had
on his shoulders and the
journey continued. They gone to a nearby pool to fetch water; all the Pandavas
reached the Asrama of Naranarayanas, and rested there but were brought
except Yudhisthira died at the pool,
for six days. One
day the wind blowing from the north- back to life again. (See Dharmaputra, Para 7). The
i
. When raised, Hanuman's tail was as high in the sky as the flag of Indra, and produced a thunderous sound. As though the
mountains were vomitting through their mouth, the sound the trumpeting of
produced by the raising of the tail shook the mountains. Drowning
Hearing the sound Bhima, his w hi It Uu\ horripilalrd
excited elephants the sound reverberated all around the mountains. entered the
forest in the direction of the sound. In the middle of Kadalivana, on a mighty rock, Bhima saw Hanuman.
BHlMA 131 BHlMA
twelve years' forest-life of the Pandavas now came to and Sulocana were killed. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 64,
an end. Verse 32).
According to the advice of Dharmadeva the Pandavas (
1
Fought a fierce war against Bhlsma. (Bhlsma Parva,
7)
selected the Virata palace for their life incognito, Bhima- Chapter 72, Verse 21).
sena assuming the name Vallava (Valala). And, here (18j Fought with Duryodhana. (Bhlsma Parva, Chap-
Bhima killed in a duel Jlmiita, the pugilist. (See Jlmuta ter 72, Verse 17).
II). It was also here that Bhima killed Klcaka and the ( 19jDefeated Duryodhana the second time. (Bhlsma
Upakicakas. (See Klcaka). On another occasion, at Parva, Chapter 79, Verse 11).
the instance of Yudhisthira Bhima took Sudharma, King (20) Defeated Krtavarma. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 82,
of Dasarna to Yudhisthira captive; but he was later set Verse 60).
free. Next year the Pandavas defeated Duryodhana in (21) Killed Bhisma's charioteer. (Bhlsma Parva, Chap-
the fight in connection with the theft of the cows of the ter 88, Verse 12).
Virata King, and then they declared that their forest ( 22) Killed eight more sons of Dhrtarastra. (Chapter 88,
life and incognito were over.
life Verse 13, Bhlsma Parva).
8 ) Bhima war. Even after the return of the
in the great ( 23) Struck by the arrow of Bhima, Dronacarya fell down
Pandavas after the forest life and life incognito the unconscious. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 94, Verse 18).
Kauravas refused to give them half of the kingdom. So, (24) Killed nine more sons of Dhrtarastra. (Bhlsma
both the parties began preparations for war. Given here- Parva, Chapter 96, Verse 23).
under is the main incident relating to Bhima from this (25) Defeated Balhika. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 104,
period to the Svargarohana (going to Heaven) of the Verse 18).
Pandavas after relinquishing the kingdom in favour of ( 26) Fought a duel with Bhurisravas. (Bhlsma Parva,
Pariksit, including their victory in war and the adminis- Chapter 110, Verse 10).
tration of the country. (27) Killed ten maharathis (heroes in chariot war) of
( 1 ) Sanjaya described to Dhrtarastra the prowess and the Kaurava army. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 113).
achievements of Bhima. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 50). ( 28) Dhrtarastra applauded the prowess of Bhima.
(2) Sri Krsna before leaving for the Kaurava assembly (Drona Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 13).
for compromise talks asked for the views of Bhima about (29) Bhima fought with Vivimsati. (Drona Parva, Chap-
the whole problem, and Bhima opined that peace was ter 14, Verse 27).
preferable to war. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 74). ( 30) Defeated Salya in club fight. (Drona Parva, Chapter
(
3 ) When Sri Krsna admonished Bhima he opted for war 15, Verse 8).
and waxed eloquent about his heroism and prowess. (31) Fought with Durmarsana. (Drona Parva, Chapter
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 76). 25, Verse 5).
(4) Bhima wanted Sikhandi to be appointed chief of the (32) Killed Anga, king of the Mleccha tribe. (Drona
army. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 161). Parva, Chapter 26, Verse 17).
(5) Bhima sent back with an insulting reply Uluka, ( 33) Fought with the elephant of Bhagadatta, was
who was sent by Duryodhana to the Pandavas with a defeated and ran away. (Drona Parva, Chapter 26,
message. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 163). Verse 19).
(6; Bhima questioned Dharmaputra who, when the ( 34) Attacked
Karna and killed fifteen warriors of his.
armies had taken position on opposite sides, went on foot (Drona Parva, Chapter 32, Verse 32).
to the Kaurava assembly without bow and arrows. (35) Fought with Vivimsati, Citrasena and Vikarna.
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 17). (Drona Parva, Chapter 96, Verse 31).
(7j The world shuddered at the war cry of Bhima. ( 36) Fought
with Alambusa and came out victorious.
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 44, Verse 8). (Drona Parva, Chapter 106, Verse 16).
(8j On the first day of the war Bhima fought a duel with (3 7) Fought with Krtavarma. (Drona Parva, Chapter
Duryodhana. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 19). 114, Verse 67).
( 38) Consoled Yudhisthira who
( 9) In the fight with the Kalingas
Bhima killed Sakra- was in great perplexity.
deva. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 54, Verse 24). Drona Parva, Chapter 126, Verse 32).
(10) Bhima killed" Bhanuman. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter (39) Defeated Drona again. (Drona Parva, Chapter
54, Verse 39). 127, Verse 42).
(11) He killed Satyadeva and Salya, who guarded the (40) Killed Kundabhedi, Susena, Dirghalocana, Vrnda-
chariot wheels of Srutayus, King of Kalinga. (Bhlsma raka, Abhaya, Raudrakarma, Durvimocana, Vinda,
Parva, Chapter 54, Verse 76). Anuvinda, Suvarma and Sudarsana. (Drona Parva,
(12) Killed Ketuman. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 54, Chapter 127, Verse 60).
Verse 77). (41) Threw off Dronacarya along with his chariot eight
(13) Annihilated the elephant division of the Kaurava times. (Drona Parva, Chapter 128, Verse 18).
army, and rivers of blood flowed. (Bhlsma Parva, (42) Defeated Karna in fight. (Drona Parva, Chapter
Chapter 54, Verse 103). 122).
( 14) Defeated Duryodhana. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 58, (43) Killed Dussala. (Drona Parva, Chapter 129).
Verse 16). (44) Defeated Karna again. (Drona Parva, Chapter
( 15) Fought against Bhlsma. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 131).
63, Verse 1). (45) Killed Durjaya, son of Dhrtarastra. (Drona Parva,
(16 Fought against the whole lot of Kauravas, and in
1
Chapter 133, Verse 13).
sons of Dhrtarastra viz. Senapati, Jara-
this fight eight (46) KilledDurmukha, sou of Dhrtarastra. (Drona
sandha, Suseua, Ugra, Virabahu, Bhima, Bhimaratha Parva, Chapter 134, Verse 20).
BHlMA 132 BHlMA
(47) Killed Durmarsana, Dussaha, Durmada, Durdhara (72) In the next fight killed Vivitsu, Vika^a, Sama,
(Duradhara) and Jaya. (Drona Parva, Chapter 135, Kratha (Krathana) Nanda and Upananda. (Karna
Verse 30). larva, Chapter 51, Verse 12).
( 48) Defeated Kama again. (Drona Parva, Chapter 1 36, ( 73) Defeated Duryodhana again. (Karna Parva, Chap-
Verse 17). ter 61, Verse 53).
(49) Killed Citra, Upacitra, Citraksa, Carucitra, Sara- ( 74) Taking upon himself all the responsibilities of the
sana, Citrayudha and Citravarman. (Drona Parva, war deputed Arjuna to guard Dharmaputra. (Karna
Chapter 136, Verse 20). parva, Chapter 65, verse 10).
(50)Kilkd Satrufijaya, Satrusaha, Citra (Citrabana) (75) Defeated Sakuni. (Karna Parva, Chapter 81,
Citrayudha (Agrayudha) Drdha (Drdhavarman) Citra - Verse 24).
sena (Ugrasena) and Vikarna. (Drona Parva, Chapter (76) Fought fiercely with Duryodhana. (Karna Parva,
137, Verse 29). Chapter 82 and 83).
(51) Defeated Karna again. (Drona Parva, Chapter 1 39, (77) Killed Dussasana in accordance with his (Bhima's)
Verse 9). old pledge and drank the blood from his (Dussasana's)
( 52) Destroyed many bows of Karna. (Drona Parva, chest. (Kama Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 28).
Chapter 139, Verse 19). ( 78) Killed ten sons of Dhrtarastra, viz. Nisangi, Kavaci,
(53) To capture Kama
bereft of his arrows, Bhima jum- Past, Dandadhara, Dhanurgraha, Alolupa, Sala, Sandha
ped into his chariot. (Drona Parva, Chapter 139, (Satyasandha) Vatavega and Suvarcas. (Karna Parva,
Verse 74). Chapter 84, Verse 2).
(54) Bhima tumbled to the ground unconscious at the ( 79) Next, single-handed Bhima killed 25000 infantry
blows of Kama. (Drona Parva, Chapter 139, Verse 91). men. (Karna Parva, Chapter 93, Verse 28).
(55) Gave directions to Arjuna to kill Karna. (Drona ( 80) Defeated Krtavarma (Salya 1'arva, Chapter 1 1 ,
by the blows dealt by him. (Karna Parva, Chapter put in-charge of protecting the Kingdom. (Asvamedha
15). i'arva, Chapter 72, Verse 19).
(71) Killed Bhanusena, son of Karna. (Karna Parva, ( 96)
It was Bhima who, along with the brahmins,
Chapter 48, Verse 27). measured ths yajaabhami, in connection with Yudhis-
BHlMA II 133 BH!MA ix
thira's Asvamedhayajna. (Asvamedha Parva, Chapter Bhima, son of King Pariksit and brother of Janamejaya.
88, Verse 6). (Adi Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 1 ). It was this Bhima who,
( 97; During
one of those days Babhruvahana visited at the yajna conducted at Kuruksetra attacked, without
Bhima, who sent the former back loaded with money reason, the son of Sarama, a dog of the Devas.
and foodgrains. (Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 88, Verse BHlMA III. A Deva gaildharva delivered by Muni,
6). the wife of Kasyapa prajapati. (Adi Parva, Chapter
( 98)
It was Bhima who held the umbrella to Sri Krsna in He took part in the birthday celebrations
65, Verse 42).
the chariot on his way back from the company of the of Arjuna. (Adi parva, Chapter 122, Verse 55).
Pandavas to Dvaraka. (Asvamedha Parva, Southern BHlMA IV. Yet another Bhima, grandson of King
Text, Chapter 92). Aviksit of the Lunar dynasty and son of Pariksit is
( 99j
Bhima opposed Dhrtarast,ra's demand for money to mentioned in Chapters 94 and 95 of Adi Farva. His
perform the rituals of those who had died in war. (Asra- mother was Suyasa. He married Kumari, daughter of
mavasika Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 7). Kekaya Raja and they had a son called Pratisravas.
( 100)
After Dhrtarastra, Kunti and Ga.ndha.ri retired into BHlMAV. Father of Divodasa, king of Kasi. (Udyoga-
the forest Bhima visited them once. (Asramavasika parva, Chapter 117, Verse 1).
Parva, Chapter 23). BHlMAVI. A Sudra who attained Svarga as on his head
8) Bhima''s conceit put down. While, after the great war, water with which the feet of a brahmin were washed.
fell
the Pandavas and Sri Krsna were discussing several The following story about him occurs on page 619 of
matters all the Pandavas except Bhima said they owed the Padmapurana.
their success in war to Krsna. But, Bhima, in all haughti- In the dvapara yuga there lived a Sudra called Bhima,
ness claimed the credit for victory to his personal prowess. who engaged himself in the profession of Vaisyas. An
With the object of putting down this conceit on the part outcaste from practices pertaining to Sudras he enjoyed
of Bhima, Sri Krsna, with Bhima seated along with him life with a Vaisya woman. He was a terrible fellow, who
on Garuda, set out on a journey to the south. After had killed many brahmins, and also enjoyed the wives
crossing the sea and Mount Subela Sri Krsna, pointing of many elderly people including his teachers. He was
out to Bhima a lake twelve yojanas wide and lying a robber as well. Once he went to a brahmin house,
near Lanka, asked him to find out the source of the lake and with the object of robbing his wealth spoke to him
and return with the information. Though Bhima walked in a pathetic tone as follows: -"Respected sire, you
some distance he could not find out its source. Not only will please listen to my grievance. You appear to be kind-
that, all the warriors there jointly attacked Bhima, and hearted. Please give me some rice, or else I will die this
finding himself impotent to counter the attack he ran very moment."
back to Sri Krsna for refuge. Then Sri Krsna with his Brahmin: "Oh hungry guest There is no one here
!
ring clipped and threw away the lake, and said to Bhima to cook food. I shall give you daily some rice, which
as follows "This isthe skull of Kumbhakarna killed
you may cook yourself. I have neither father, mother,
:
by Sri Rama in the Rama-Ravana war. The warriors son, brothers, wife nor any other relatives. All of them
who attacked you are the asuras called 'Sarogeyas' ." are dead and gone. The unfortunate fellow that I am,
These words of the lord put down Bhima's conceit, am
I staying here alone. No servants or others here."
and he apologised to Krsna. (Skanda Purana, 1.2.66). Bhima: "Oh revered brahmin I too am a lonely
!
9) Death. After entrusting matters of administration of person. 1 shall live here for ever serving you. I am a
the country to Pariksit the Pandavas set out on their Sudra."
great journey. Yudhisthira walking in the front, they These words of Bhima pleased the brahmin so much that
started for Kailasa. During the course of their journey he cooked some food quickly and served the Sudra with
Pancali, Sahadeva, Nakula and Arjuna one after the it. He stayed with the brahmin from that day onwards.
other fell down dead. Bhima asked Yudhisthira the His idea was to rob the brahmin of his wealth at some
reason for the deaths and he was given suitable answers convenient time and get away. But, since he used to
by the latter. At last when Bhima too was about to fall pour on his head everyday the water with which the
down and die he asked the reason thereof, and Yudhis- brahmin's feet were washed he got redemption from all
thira replied that Bhima's over-eating was the reason. his sins.
Afterwards when Dharmaputra entered Heaven he One night a thief got into the brahmin's room to steal his
found his brothers had already their seats there. (See
earnings. Seeing the thief Bhiina rushed at him to give
Arjuna, Para 31). him a good thrashing. But, the thief, in the twinkling
10) Other information. (1) Bhima had a son named of an eye, cut off Bhima's head and escaped from the
Sutasoma by Pancali. (Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verse scene. At once there came down the attendants of Lord
75). Visnu to lead Bhima to Vaikuntha. A divine chariot
2) A son called Sarvaga was born to Bhima of Balan- drawn by Rajahamsas (swans) also came down. Bhima
dhara, daughter of the King of Kasl. (Adi Parva,
got into the chariot and reached the abode of Visnu.
Chapter 95, Verse 97). BHlMA VII. Father of Damayantl. (See Damayanti).
3) The following names are found used in the Maha-
bharata as synonyms for Bhima. Acyutanuja, Anilat- BHlMA VIII. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra.
maja, Arjunagraja, Arjunapurvaja, Vallava, Bhima-
He was killed by Bhima, one of the Pandavas. (Bhlsma
dhanva, Jaya, Kaunteya, Kaurava, Kusasardula, Ma.ru- Parva, Chapter 64, Verse 86).
tltmaja, Maruti, Pandava, Partha, Pavanatmaja, Pra- BHlMAIX. Verse 17, Chapter 94 of Adi Parva, Mentions
bhanjanasuta, Raksasakantaka, Samtraaasuta, Vayu- about one Bhima born to King Ilin of his wife Rathan-
putra, Vayusuta, Vrkodara. dhari. This Bhima had four brothers, viz., Dusyanta,
BHlMA II. The Mahabharata makes mention of another Sura, Pravasu and Vasu.
BHlMA X 134 BHlSMA
BHlMA X. One of the five attendants given to Subrah- bird garuda, Kite) set up by Drona. (Drona Parva,
manya by the Deva called Arhsa. Parigha, Vafa, Chapter 20, Verse 12). He killed S'alva, the Mleccha
Dahati and Dahana were the other four. king and a supporter of the Pandavas.
(Salya Parva, (Drona Parva,
Chapter 45, Verse 34). Chapter 25, Verse 26). When Yudhisthira was king at
BHlMA XI. A king of ancient time. He sits in yama's Indraprastha Bhlmaratha sat in Pandava assembly as a
assembly worshipping yama. There are hundred kings comrade of the Pandavas. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 4,
in yama's assembly, having the name Bhlma. Verse 26).
(Sabha.
Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 24). It is on account of the BHlMARATHl (BHlMA). A river in the South extolled
penance of the hundred Bhimas that the difficulties in the puranas. Sins of those who bathe in this river will
of people are lifted. (Vana Parva, Chapter 3, Verse
11). vanish. On its shore is a sacred place called Pandhara-
These one hundred persons were kings in ancient days. pura. (Vana Parva, Chapter 88, Bhisma Parva, Chap-
Owing to several adversities they left their ter 9).
kingdoms
for the assembly of yama. (Santi Parva, Chapter 227, BHlMASARA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtaras{ra.
Verse 49). (Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 99).
BHlMA XII. A yadava king, the father of Andhaka. BHlMAVEGA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra.
This Bhlma was a contemporary of Sri Rama. He con- (Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 99).
quered Madhurapuri founded by Satrughna after killing BHlRU. A son born to Manibhadra and his wife Punya-
the Daitya called Madhu.
jani.
BHlMA XIII. A friend of Havana, king of Lanka. It BHlSAlVA. Son of Baka. From the day his father was
was on the top of Bhlma's house that Hanuman rested killed by Bhima Bhlsana was impatiently waiting for
for the first time after arriving at Lank'i.
(Valmiki revenge. When the Pandavas began the Asvamedha
Ramayana, Sundara Kanda, Canto 6). yajna he obstructed it at a place near Ekacakra. Arjuna
BHlMABALAI. (BHURIBALA). One of the hundred fought and killed him. (Jaimini Asvamedha Parva,
sons of Dhrtarasfra killed by Bhlma. (Salya Parva, Chapter 22).
Chapter 26, Verse 14). BHlSMA.
BHlMABALA II. One
of the five Vinayakas born from
1) From Visnu were descended in the follow-
Genealogy.
the asura called Paflcajanya. These Brahma-Atri-Candra-Budha - Pururavas -
Vinayakas cause ing order
difficulties and obstructions to the
yajnas of Devatas. Ayus - Nahusa - Yayati - Puru - Janamejaya - Pracinva-
(Vana Parva, Chapter 221, Verse 11). Pravira - Namasyu - Vltabhaya - Sundu - Bahuvidha -
BHlMABHATA. A gandharva. The following story has Samyati - Rahovadi - Raudrasva
- Matinara - Santu-
reference to his past life.
rodha-Dusyanta-Bharata-Suhotra-Suhota -Gala-Gardda
On the death of Srutadhara, king of Ekalavyanagara the -Suketu-Brhatksetra-Hasti - Ajamidha - Rksa - Samva-
younger of his two sons, Satyadhara drove out of the rana - Kuru- Jahnu-Suratha-Viduratha - Sarvabhauma-
kingdom the elder brother, Siladhara. Thus ousted from Jayatsena-Ravyaya-Bhavuka-Cakroddhata - Devatithi
-
his kingdom Siladhara did due penance and
got from Rksa - Bhima-Pratipa-Santanu-Bhlsma.
Siva the boon that Satyadhara be killed while he him-
2) Birth and Boyhood. Bhisma's name in his boyhood was
self be made a gandharva. Owing to the Devavrata. He was the eighth son of Santanu, a king
blessing of
Siva Satyadhara died, and he was born again as Samara- of the lunar dynasty and Gangadevl. This boy was the
bha(a, son of Ugrabha^a, King of Radhanagara, and human embodiment of Dyau, one of the Astavasus.
Siladhara was born as Bhimabhata, brother of Samara- Santanu, his father was the re-birth of another king,
bhata. On the death of Ugrabhafa Bhlmabhata, after Mahabhiseka. The story concerning this, as given in
killing Samarabhata ascended the throne. And, on one of the Maha.bha.rata is as follows:
those days, he was transformed into a wild
elephant as King Mahabhiseka after his death, attained Visnuloka.
the result of the curse of a muni. But, he iremembered Once he went to visit Brahma at Satyaloka. At that
his previous existence,
and, though turned into elephant time Gangadevl was also present in Brahma's assembly.
could speak like men.Bhlmabhata became a gandharva In that pious atmosphere, a gentle breeze began to blow
because he received and treated well once a traveller and Gangadevl's clothes were slightly deranged. Just
and related to him his (Bhlmabhata's ) own story. at that moment, Mahabhiseka took a stealthy glance at
(Kathasaritsagara SasamkavatMarhbaka). her and she also returned that glance. This was noted
BHlMAjANU. A king in ancient India. He remained in by Brahma who turned both of them into human beings
the assembly of yama serving the latter. (Sabha Parva,
by a curse. Gaiigadevi begged pardon and Brahma
Chapter 8, Verse 21). lifted the curse and blessed her that the Astavasus would
BHlMAKSA. A Raksasa, who used to attack the king- come to the earth to be born as her sons and that after-
doms of Kasi and Kosala often. Finally the above kings wards she could come back to Heaven. After that
jointly encountered him. He was killed by King Har- Gangadevl was born as a mortal woman in the world
yaivan. (Brahmanda Purana). under the name Ganga and she spent her days in the
BHlMARATHA I. A king of the family of Visvamitra. forests near the Ganga river valleys.
His father was Ketuman and Divodasa his son. In those days the ruler of the Lunar dynasty was a king
(Bhaga-
vata, Navama Skandha). named Pratipa. Having no children, he went to the
BHlMARATHA II. One of the hundred sons of Dhrta- bank of the river Ganga and performed tapas there.
rastra killed in the war by Bhima. (Bhlsma Parva, Gaiigadevi who was moving about in the forests near-
Chapter 64, Verse 36). by, saw the King deeply absorbed in his tapas. She
BHlMARATHA III. A hero who fought on the Kaurava approached him and sat on his right thigh. She wanted
side. It was this Bhlmaratha who stood at the centre of the King to be her husband. He explained to her that
the garuda vyuha (army formation in the form of the the right thigh is the proper seat of a daughter-in-law
BHlSMA 135 BHlSMA
and so she would become his son's wife in due course. man did not yield to the king's demand immediately.
In course of time, Pratlpa had a son, Santanu, born He laid down several conditions, one of which was that
to him. When Santanu grew up into a young man, one Satyavatl's sons should succeed to the throne of Santanu.
day he went for a hunt to the Ganga-valley and there he The king was in a fix. Devavrata was the eldest son and
met Gaiigadevi. He fell in love with her at first sight heir-apparent. To deny kingship to his sons would be
and courted her. Garigadevi agreed to become his wife highly improper. Unable to find a solution to this diffi-
on condition that he should not say anything to displease cult problem, the king returned to the palace, much
her and if he violated that condition she would leave him. depressed and gloomy. There he avoided all company
The king accepted the condition and they became man and took to his bed, passing his time in sadness and
and wife. solitude.
At about that time, the wife of Dyo, one of the Asta- When Devavrata knew about his father's condition, he
vasus, happened to see the sacrificial cow of the sage called the Ministers and asked them about it. They
Vasistha and wished to have it. She expressed her told him everything in details. At once, without inform-
desire to her husband, Dyo. Dyo, with the other seven ing even his father, Devavrata went to the fisherman's
vasus went and took away by force, Vasistha's cow. cottage on the bank of the river Ganga and begged for
Vasistha in his anger cursed the Astavasus to be born as Satyavati on behalf of his father. The fisherman repeated
mortals. They repented and begged pardon from his former condition. Devavrata agreed that Satya-
Vasistha. The sage told them that all of them would vatT's son shall be given the right of Kingship. The
be born as the sons of Gaiigadevi and all except Dyo, fisherman pointed out that disputes were likely to arise
who actually stole the cow, would return to Heaven between Devavrata's sons and Satyavatl's children regar-
at the time of birth itself. As for Dyo, he would continue ding the right of succession to the throne. At once
to live in the world for a long time, as an adventurous Devavrata stood up and made a solemn pledge that he
hero. would remain a bachelor for life. The fisherman gave
GarigadevI became pregnant and gave birth to her first Satyavati to Devavrata to be taken to the King. Deva-
child. She carried the child to the river Gariga and vrata took her to the palace and presented her to his
threw it into the river. Santanu who followed her up father. The King, when he came to know of the part
to the river bank, did not say anything against her, played by his son in the matter, rose from his bed and
remembering his promise. embraced Devavrata with tears of joy and gratitude.
Seven children were born to her and she threw all of them The gods showered flowers on the scene. Because he had
into the river in this way. When she gave birth to the taken such a solemn oath, it was declared that hence-
eighth child, Santanu insisted that he would not allow forth he would be known by the name "BHlSMA".
her to throw away that child into the river. As he had The loving father Santanu also gave him a boon that
violated the condition, the angry Gangadevi left the Bhlsma would die only when he wished. (M.B., Adi
palace with her child. She named it Devavrata and Parva, Chapter 100).
brought him up in the forest. The sage Vasistha and 4) Affairs of the Kingdom in crisis. Two sons named
Gangadevi taught him branches of knowledge.
all Vicitravlrya and Citrarigada were born to Satyavati by
Thirtytwo years king went to the same forest
later, the Santanu, who died shortly afterwards. As desired by
for hunting. He saw a handsome boy stopping the Satyavati, Bhisma crowned the boy Citrarigada as king.
flow of the river Ganga. Getting interested in the boy, Although Citrangada's reign was a prosperous one, it
the King approached him. But by that time he had could not last long. Once a Gandharva named Citraii-
disappeared. The King prayed to
Gangadevi to give gada attacked him at Kuruksetra and after a battle
back the child. She appeared with the child and after which lasted for three years, the Gandharva Citrarigada
handing over the child to him vanished. The king killed the King Citraiigada. It was Bhlsma who per-
returned to the palace with the child. (M.B. Adi formed the funeral rites of the King Citrarigada. After
Parva, Chapters 95-100). that Vicitravlrya was crowned King.
3) The name Bhifma. Devavrata was anointed, as It was at that time that the Svayamvara of the three
heir-apparent. One day King Santanu reached the daughters of the King of Kasi, Arhba, Arhbika and
forest near the Ganga river valley, for hunting. As he Ambalika, was held. Bhisma thought that it would be
was hunting, absorbed in the beauty of the forest scenery, good if Vicitravlrya married them. So Bhlsma attended
he felt the perfume of musk filling the air in the forest. that function. The presence of Bhlsma who was an old
He wondered from where it could come. He went on man, at the Svayariivara, frightened the girls. The other
and on trying to find out the source of this smell until kings who were present, stopped
him from entering
he reached the cottage of a fisherman. The fisherman the place, since he had taken an oath to remain a life-
had a daughter named Satyavati. It was from her that long bachelor. The old Bhlsma stood up
and spoke at
of marriage and
the fragrance of musk spread all around. 1 The king length about the eight different forms
fell in love with her at first
sight. He asked the fisherman after defeating several kings like Salva, he seized the
to give the girl in
marriage to him. But the brave fishc r- three daughters of the King of Kasi and took them with
i. name was Kali. The fisherman got her from the stomach of a fish. (See the word Adrika). Since she
Satvavati's original
had the smell of fish name of "Matsyagandhi." She used to assist a fisherman in his work as a ferryman in the river Ganga.
she got the
Once the sage Parasara happened to get into her boat and he fell deeply in love with her. The sage removed the smell offish from her and gave
her the perfume of musk instead. By this mystic power he created a mist at noon and under its cover, he had a sexual union with her. A
a result of it the child Krsna
(Vyasa) was born. The child immediately left the mother to perform tapas in the forest after promising to
return to her whenever she wished for his presence. Although she gave birth to a child, Parasara blessed that she would again remain a
virgin. The whole episode remained a secret. As usual, Satyavati returned to the fisherman's cottage in the evening and continued to
live with him. It is at this stage that Santanu was attracted by the perfume of musk and came to the cottage where he met Satyavati.
BHlSMA 136 BHlSMA
him in his chariot to Hastinapura. Preparations were He performed the death anniversary of Pandu.
(6)
made for the marriage of Vicitravlrya with the three (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 127, Verse 1).
princesses. Then Amba approached Bhisma
and told ( 7) He engaged Dronacarya to teach archery to the
him that she had already dedicated her heart to the king princes. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 130, Verse 77).
of Salva. Bhisma generously allowed her to return home. ( 8) He burst into tears and wept bitterly on hearing that
(For the rest of Amba's story, see the word "Amba". Pandavas were burnt to death in the palace of lac and
Vicitravlrya married Ambika and Ambalika. He ruled
was about to offer them 'Jalanjali'. Just then, Vidura
over the country for seven years at the end of which he came to him and secretly informed him that the Pandavas
died of consumption. The dynasty faced a crisis, as were not dead. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 149, Daksi-
there was no one to succeed him. Satyavati approached natya Patha ) .
Bhisma with a suggestion to beget children by Vicitra- ( 9) He advised Duryodhana to give half the kingdom to
virya's wife. But Bhisma stood firmly on his solemn oath
the Pandavas. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 202).
to continue as a life-long bachelor. (M.B. Adi Parva, (10) He had taken part in Dharmaputra's Rajasuya
Verse 100-104). Yajna. Dharmaputra had entrusted to Bhisma, the
5) Bhiyma's Wire Pulling. After that Satyavati sum- arrangements for that yajna. (M.B. Sabha Parva,
moned Vyasa to Hastin r.pura and sons were born Chapter 35, Verse 6).
to Ambika, Ambalika and their maid by him. Ambika (11) He advised Yudhisthira to give the highest place of
gave birth to Dhrtarastra, Ambalika gave birth to honour in that yajna to Sri Krma. (M.B. Sabha Parva,
Pandu and the maid gave birth to Vidura. They grew Chapter 36, Verse 28).
up and Dhrtarastra married Gandharl and Pandu (12) Bhisma ridiculed Sisupala (Sabha Farva, Chapter
married Kunti and Madrl. Duryodhana and his brothers 33).
were born to Dhrtarastra, while the Pandavas were (13)Sisupala insulted Bhisma. (Sabha Farva, Chapter
born to Pandu. Pandu died at the Satasrnga vana and 41).
Madrl observed sati by jumping into his funeral pyre (14) Bhisma stopped Bhlma who rushed out to kill
and burning herself alive. After that, the Kauravas Sisupala. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 42, Verse 13).
and Pandavas who lived in the palace at Hastinapura, It was Bhisma who narrated the life
( 15) story of SiSu-
split up into two blocs. When the palace made of lac pala. (Sabha
larva, Chapter 43).
was destroyed by fire, the Pandavas went into the forest
and came back to the country after their marriage with (16) In the battle against Sisupala, Bhisma selected
Pancall. They ruled over the country with Indraprastha powerful Kings to help Sri Krsna. (Sabha Parva,
as their capital. In the gambling contest between Chapter 44, Verse 41).
1
7) Once Bhisma asked the sage Pulastya about the
Dharmaputra and Duryodhana, the Pandavas lost their (
value and importance of pilgrimage.
kingdom and everything and so they went to the forest (Vana larva,
again. They lived for twelve years in the forest and spent Chapter 82, Verse 4).
one year incognito in the palace of the King of Virata. (18)Bhisma advised Duryodhana to be on friendly
At that time the Pandavas reappeared in the battle terms with the Pandavas. (Vana Parva, Chapter 253,
which took place as a result of the theft of King Virata's Verse 4).
cows by the Kauravas. Duryodhana asserted that he ( In the battle which was fought by Kauravas against
19)
would not give so much land to the Pandavas as to put King Virata, Bhisma arranged the regiments in order,
a dot with a needle. With the failure of Sri Krsna's after sending Duryodhana to Hastinupura. (Virata
mediation, the Kauravas and Pandavas encamped on Parva, Chapter 52, Verse 16).
the opposite sides of the field of Kuruksetra, preparing A grim fight took place between Arjuna who went
( 20)
for a grim battle. to help the Virata army and Bhisma. At last, it was the
Bhisma was the chief protagonist in all these events charioteer who removed Bhisma, (who had fallen down
relating to the Kauravas and Paridavas. At every stage unconscious) from the battlefield.
in the story we see Bhlsma's influence. The main events
(Virata Parva,
Chapter 64).
in which this superman who used to give shelter to
Kauravas and Pandavas alike, played a decisive role, (21) When the Kauravas were contemplating to fight
are given below :
against the Pandavas who had returned after their
incognito life, Bhisma ridiculed Karna and praised
(1) Bhisma sent a messenger to Subala, king of Gan-
Arjuna. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 21, Verse 16).
dhara, to ask for the hand of Gandharl, to be married to
Dhrtarastra. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 109, Verse (22) At that time, he explained to Duryodhana, the
11). greatness of Sri Krsna and Arjuna. (Udyoga Parva,
( 2) He went to the palace of Salya, king of Madra and
Chapter 49, verse 2).
secured Madrl to be married to Pandu. (M.B. Adi Parva, ( Duryodhana proposed to bind the hands and feet
23)
Chapter 112). of Sri Krsnawho was expected to come as the envoy of
(3) He brought about the marriage between Vidura and the Pandavas. Hearing this, Bhisma in great anger,
the daughter of Devaka. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter walked out of the council hall. (Udyoga Farva, Chap-
113, Verse 2). ter 88, Verse 19).
(4) The Maharsis who were the inhabitants of Satasrnga (
Bhisma strongly advised Duryodhana to make a
24)
told Bhisma about the birth of the Pandavas.
(M.B. treaty of peace with the Pandavas. (Udyoga Parva,
Adi Parva, Chapter 125, Verse 22). Chapter 125, Verse 2).
(5) Bhisma offered 'Jalanjali' (worship with holy water) ( 25) He
declared that he would not kill the Pandavas
to Pandu at his death. (M.B. Adi Parva, but would kill 10,000 soldiers of the Pandavas everyday.
Chapter 126,
Verse 27). Udyoga Farva, Chapter 156, Verse 21).
BHlSMA 137 BHlSMA
(26) As desired by Duryodhana, Bhisma declared the Bhisma put an end to the battle. (Bhisma Parva, Chap-
Rathis and Maharathis who belonged to the Kaurava ter 69, Verse 29).
side. (Udyoga Parva, Chapters 165-168). (12) A took place between Bhisma and
terrible fight
( 27)
Bhlsma described all the MaharathTs of the Pandava Bhimasena. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 70).
side to Duryodhana. (Udyoga Parva, Chapters 169- (13) There was again a fight with Arjuna. (Bhisma
172). Parva, Chapter 71).
(28) Bhlsma told Duryodhana that Sikhandl and the ( 14)
Bhisma wounded Bhimasena and defeated Satyaki.
Pandavas should not be killed. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 71, Verse 21).
172,' Verse 20). (15) Bhisma wounded King Virata. (Bhisma Parva,
(
Bhisma offered pQja to Parasurama. (Udyoga Parva,
29) Chapter 73, Verse 2).
Chapter 123, Verse 27). ( 16) Duryodhana who was frightened by Bhimasena's
(30) Arhba who was allowed by Bhisma to marry her deeds of valour, was encouraged by Bhisma. (Bhisma
lover, King Salva, was rejected by him and returned Parva, Chapter 80, Verse 8).
to Bhlsma again. But he did not accept her. Although ( 17) He deprived Dharmaputra of his chariot. (Bhisma
Parasurama pleaded with him on behalf of Arhba, parva, Chapter 86, Verse 11).
Bhisma did not marry her. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter (18 When Bhimasena killed Bhisma's charioteer, the
1
178, Verse 32). horses turned round and ran away, dragging the chariot
(31) In connection with Amba's case, a duel was fought with them. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 88, Verse 12).
on the field of Kuruksetra between Bhisma and Parasu- (19) He ordered Bhagadatta to fight with Ghatotkaca.
rama. Bhisma started the duel after asking for the (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 17).
permission of Parasurama. Pleased with the fight, the (20) He swore that all except Sikhandi would be killed.
Vasus presented to Bhlsma, the Prasvapana arrow. But (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 98, Verse 4).
he did not use that arrow against Parasurama, since (21) Satyaki and Bhisma fought again. Bhisma Parva, (
the gods and Narada prevented him from doing so. Chapter 104, Verse 29).
At the request of the gods, pitrs and Gangadevi, Bhisma (22) Bhisma killed 14,000 Maharathis who belonged to
stopped the fight and prostrated at the feet of Parasu- the Cedi, Kasi and Karusa countries. (Bhisma Parva,
rama. (Udyoga Parva, Chapters 178-185). Chapter 106, Verse 18).
( 32)
Bhisma narrated to Duryodhana the story of Amba (23) Bhisma explained to Dharmaputra, the method by
who was re-born as Sikhandi. (Udyoga parva, Chapters which he (Bhisma) could be killed. (Bhisma parva,
188-192). Chapter 107, verse 76).
( 33) Bhisma himself told Duryodhana that he had the (24) He declared that he would not fight with Sikhandi,
strength to annihilate all the Pandavas. (Udyoga Parva, who was neither man nor woman. (Bhisma Parva,
Chapter 193, Verse 14). Chapter 108, Verse 43).
( 34)
Before the beginning of the battle, Yudhisthira (25) He allowed Yudhisthira to launch an attack on
went to Bhisma and asked for his permission to start it. himself (Bhisma). (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 115, Verse
Bhlsma granted him permission and blessed him. 13).
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 43, Verse 44). (26) Bhisma, shot by Arjuna's arrow, fell down uncons-
6) Bhifma in Bhdrata Tuddha. cious. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 1 17, Verse 64).
( 1)
On the first day of the battle a duel took place bet- (27) Bhisma who recovered and rose again, killed
ween Bhisma and Arjuna. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 45, Satanika, brother of King Virata. (Bhisma Parva,
Verse 8)! Chapter 118, Verse 27).
(2) In the battle Bhisma killed Sveta, the son of king (28) Bhisma routed the Pandava army most disastrously.
Vira{a. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 3). (Bhisma' Parva, Chapters 118, 119).
( 3) There was again a terrible fight with Arjuna. (Bhisma (29) He considered the misery of life and the sweetness
Parva, Chapter 52). of death. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 119, Verse 34).
(4) Satyaki killed Bhisma's charioteer. (Bhisma Parva, (30) Bhisma who was wounded by Arjuna's arrows,
Chapter 64, Verse 114). described to Dussasana, the heroism of Arjuna. (Bhisma
(5) Seeing that the army of the Kauravas was being Parva, Chapter 119, Verse 56).
scattered in all directions by the violent strokes of Arjuna (31) Arjuna shot his arrow at Bhisma and made him fall
Bhisma ordered to stop the second day's battle. (Bhisma down from his chariot. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 119,
Parva, Chapter 55, Verse 42). Verse 87).
(6) Bhlsma challenged Srikrsna for the fight. (Bhisma (32) He told Hariisa that
he would remain alive until the
Parva, Chapter 59, Verse 96j . sun came to Uttarayana. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 119,
Verse 104).
(7) Fought again with Arjuna. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter
(33) Bhisma who fell
and lay on a bed of arrows begged
60, Verse 25).
for a pillow to the Kings. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 120,
( 8) Bhisma gave orders to Dronacarya and Duryodhana Verse 34).
to save Bhagadatta who fell in danger. (Bhisma Farva,
( 34)
When he found that they were not paying any heed
Chapter 64, verse 64).
to his entreaties, he asked for a pillow to Arjuna. (Bhisma
(9) Bhisma told Duryodhana that Arjuna and Krsna Parva, Chapter, 120, Verse 28).
were trie incarnations ofNara and Narayana. (Bhisma
(35) exhorted the Kings to put an end to the battle.
He
Parva, Chapters 65-68). Verse 51 ).
(10) Bhisma praised the greatness of Brahmaputa (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 120,
Stotra. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 68, Verse 2). Bhisma begged for water to Arjuna. (Bhisma Parva,
( 36)
(11) Seeing Sikhandi rushing forward to oppose him, Chapter 121, Verse 18).
BHlSMAKA 138 BHOJA V
( 3 7) He advised Duryodhana to end the battle. (Bhlsma Chapter 31, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 158, Santi Parva,
Parva, Chapter 121, Verse 38). Chapter 4).
(38) As Kama
wished for 'Virasvarga' (Heaven for the BHlSMA PARVA. A sub parva in the Mahabharata.
valiant) Bhlsma permitted him to fight. (Bhlsma Parva, BHlSMASVARGAROHAI^A PARVA. A sub division
of Anusasana Parva. Chapters 167 and 168 of Anusa-
Chapter 122, verse 34).
sana Parva are included in this.
(39;Vyasa sent Dharmaputra to Bhlsma to
learn the
mysteries of "Dharma" from Bhlsma
before his (Bhis- BHISMAVADHA PARVA. A sub Parva of Bhlsma Parva.
It comprises Chapters 43-122 of the Bhlsma Parva.
ma's) death. (Santi Parva, Chapter 37, Verse 5).
(40) Bhlsma said that Sri Krsna was
more competent BHOH. A term used for greeting elders. When saluting
to give advice on "Dharma" than himself. (Santi an elderly person, the term "Bhoh" is used as a suffix to
his name.
Parva, Chapter 52, Verse 2).
ashamed Yudhisthira For example:
(41) When the frightened and
"Somasarma nama aham asmi bhoh"
approached him, Bhlsma cheered him up. (Santi Parva,
Bhoh Sabdam kirtayedante
Chapter 14, Verse 19).
(42) Bhlsma explained to Yudhisthira,
with the help Svasya namnabhivadanc /
of various examples and illustrations, "Rajya Dharma", Namnaiii svarupa bhavo hi
bhobhavo rsibhih smrtah //
"Apaddharma", and "Moksa Dharma". (Santi Parva,
Chapter 56, to Anusasana Parva, Chapter 1 65 ) . (Manusmrti, Chapter 2, verse 124)
(43) After giving his advice
to Yudhisthira Bhlsma gave BHOGAVAN. A mountain Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
him permission to enter Hastinapura. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 30, Verse 12 says that in the course of his trium-
Chapter 166, verse 50). phant over-running of the eastern lands, Bhlmasena
( 44)
He gave advice to Dhrtarastra regarding his duties conquered this mountain also.
and responsibilities. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 167, BHOGAVATl I. Nagaloka or Patala. When Sugrlva
Verse 30). sent monkeys in all directions in search of Sita, he gave
He asked for Sri Krsna's permission to renounce his instructions to them to go and search for her in Bhoga-
( 45)
body. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 167, Verse 37). vatlpura. Valmiki Ramayana, 41st Sarga, Kiskindha-
Bhlsma renounced kanda describes the place as the city infested with ser-
(46) With Sri Krsna's permission,
his body. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 168, Verse 2). pents (nagas) and guarded by them. Vasuki, King of
rites and Jalaft- serpents, lives there.
(47) The Kauravas performed the funeral
jali (purification by sprinkling water)
of Bhlsma (Anu- BHOGAVATl II. Ganga of Patala. (M. B. Sabha Parva,
sasana Parva, Chapter 168, Verse 10). Daksinatya Patha, Chapter 38).
( 48) Gangadevi
lamented that Sikhandl, who was neither BHOGAVATl III. A place of holy bath at Prayaga.
man nor woman, killed Bhlsma. (Anusasana Parva, It is better known as Vasuki tlrtha. Mahabharata Vana
168, Verse 21). Parva, Chapter 85 says that a bath at this tlrtha is as
efficacious as an Asvamedha yajfia.
(49)Vyasa and Sri Krsna told Gangadevi that Bhlsma BHOGAVATl IV. Another name for the river Sarasvati.
died by Arjuna's arrow. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter
168, Verse 30). (M. B. Vana Parva, Chapter 24, Verse 20).
On a later occasion Vyasa invoked into the river
BHOGAVATl V. A female attendant of Subrahmanya.
50)
(
who died in the battle and among them (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 8).
Ganga, those BHOJA I. A king of the ancient country named Martti
Bhlsma was also present. (Asramavasika Parva, Chap- kavata. In Mahabharata Adi Parva, Chapter 185,
ter 32, verse 7). Verse 6, we see that this king had attended the Svayaih-
(51) After his death,Bhlsma remained in Heaven as vara of Draupadl. He was slain by Abhimanyu at the
Dyau, one of the Asfavasus. (Svargarohana Parva, battle of Kuruksetra. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
Chapter 5, Verse 11). 48, Verse 8).
Other names of Bhifma. Apageya, Apagasuta, Bhagl- BHOJA II. A king of Yaduvams'a. Mahabharata, Santi
rathiputra, Bharata, Pitamaha, Bharatarsabha, Bhara- Parva, Chapter 166, Verse 79 says, that he died under
tasattama, Bhismaka, Siintanava, Santanuputra, Santa- the stroke of the sword of Maharaja Usinara. Bhoja-
nusuta, Santanuja, Devavrata, Garigasuta, Garigeya, vamsa takes its source from this king.
Jahnavlputra, Kaurava, Kauravanandana, Kauravya, BHOJA III. A king who became renowned as a Sanskrit
Kuru-^arddula, Kurusrestha, Kurudvaha, Kurukula- scholar. It is believed that he lived from 1018 to 1054
sresfha, Kurukulodvaha, Kurumukhya, Kurunandana, A.D. His capital city was Dhara. Bhoja is credited
Kurupati, Nadya, Prapitamaha, Sagaragasuta, Satya- with the authorship of two scholarly books entitled,
sandha, Taladhvaja, Vasu are other names of Bhlsma "Sarasvatlkanthabharana" and "Snigaraprakasa".
used in the Mahabharata. Of these, the first is a compendious volume in five chap-
BHlSMAKA. King of Vidarbha and born in the Bhoja ters, dealing with the merits and defects of poetry,
dynasty, Bhismaka was the father of Rukmini, the wife figures of speech, -etc. Bhoja observes that besides the
of Sri Krsna. He had five sons. A friend of Bhisma, four styles (in poetry) laid down by Rudraka, there are
he conquered and ruled over a fourth of the world. two more styles, namely, "Avanti"
and "Magadhi".
He defeated the Krathas, Pandyas and Kaisikas. He BHOJA IV. A follower of Sudas. In Rgveda, 3rd Man-
was very much devoted to Jarasandha. (Sabha Parva, dala, 58th Anuvaka, 7th Sukta we find that this Bhoja
Chapter 14, Verse 21). Sahadeva, who was on a trium- had given help to sage Visvamitra in performing his
phal tour in connection with the Pandava's asvamedha Asvamedha yaga.
yajfia fought and defeated Bhismaka at Bhojakatanagara. BHOJA V. A king of Kanyakubja. Once this king Bhoja
Bhismaka was also called Hiranyaroma. (Sabha Parva, met a woman with a fantastic shape. Her body was of
BHOJA 139 BHRGU
human shape while her face was that of a female deer. From we see that Bhrgu was born from
these lines
When the king asked her about her strange shape, she Brahma's skin (tvak). But in M.B. Adi Parva, 5th
related her past history as follows: "In my previous Chapter, we find another version regarding his birth.
birth, I was a female deer. On one occasion the whole In that passage we read that Bhrgu was born from
of my body except my face, was plunged in a river and "Vahni" (fire). In the light of these two statements, we
those parts of the body under the water were transformed may examine Bhrgu's birth.
into human shape. From that day, I have been changed Bhrgu had two incarnations The first time he was born
.
into this form." from Brahma's skin. In course of time, the sage Bhrgu
On hearing her story, the king took her to the holy river became famous. In the Daksayaga, this sage was pre-
and immersed her again in it. She was at once trans- sent as one of the Rtviks (officiating priests). On that
formed into an actual woman and the king married her. occasion, Satldevi who was in rage and grief because
(Skanda Purana, 7-2-2). her husband (Siva) was not invited to the yaga, commit-
BHOJA. An exquisitely beautiful virgin of the country, ted suicide by jumping into the sacrificial fire. Hearing
Sauvira. Mahabharata Drona Parva, Chapter 10, about this, Siva was enraged and the monster spirits who
Verse 33 says that Satyaki abducted her and made her emerged from his matted locks caught hold of the
his wife. Rtviks. Bhagavata caturtha skandha says that the Bhuta
BHOJA (M). (BHOJAVAMSA). This is a branch of named Nandisvara, who emerged from Siva's locks,
Yaduvainsa. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 217, Verse 18). caught hold of Bhrgu and killed him.
BHOJAKATA. The capital of Vidarbha. Once Saha- Therefore the Bhrgu who was born from Brahma's
deva, one of the Pandavas conquered this city. It was skin must be considered as having died at Daksayaga.
at this place that Sri Krsna defeated Rukmi, the brother Bhrgu was born again in Vaivasvata Manvantara.
of RukminI at the time of Rukmini's Svayamvara. The This second birth was at the famous Brahmayajna
originalname of Bhojakata was "Kundinapura". of Varuna. Hie was reborn from fire, as Brahma's son.
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 31 and Ud yoga Parva, This child who was born from Brahma's semen which
Chapter 158). fell in the sacrificial fire, was brought up by Varuna
BHOJIKA. A Brahmana. (See the word Pataliputra )
. and his wife Carsani. Consequently Bhrgu is referred
BHOJYA. A Bhoja princess. She was abducted by to as "Varunaputra" and "Carsanlputra" in some
Jyamagha of the Yadava family and married to his son, Puranas. Since he was born at Varuna's yaga he is
Vidarbha. (See Jyamagha). sometimes called "VarunI Bhrgu".
BHOSA. A word meaning a comic, stupid or eccentric 3) Bhrgu VarhSa. (Bhrgu family ) Each birth of Bhrgu
.
person. Bhosas are of eight kinds. Those who feel gave rise to a separate family. They are given below
derided, those who
babble, those who are obstinate, separately: First birth: Bhrgu and his wife Khyati
sophists, those who
indulge in hollow laughter, those had a daughter Laksmi and three sons, Dhata, Vidhata
who pretend to be blind, those who pretend to be deaf, and Kavi. Mahameru's daughters, Ayati and Niyati
and those who try to assert their self-importance these became the wives of Dhata and Vidhata, respectively.
are the eight classes of "Bhosas". Two sons, Prana and Mrkandu were born to those two
BHRAMARA. A prince of the land of Sauvira. He was couples. Markandeya was born to Mrkandu and from
a comrade of Jayadratha. M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter Markandeya was born Vedasiras. Prana had a son,
265 describes how Bhramara walked behind the chariot Dyutiman who had a son Rajavan. From that Rajavan,
of Jayadratha with banner in his hand, when the latter Bhrgu Varhsa multiplied. The family tree of this first
abducted Pancali. Bhramara was killed by Arjuna. Bhrgu Varhsa is given below: (See Visnu purana,
BHRAMARl. A RaksasI who was the follower of Jarii- Part I, Chapter 10).
bhasura. As directed by Jarhbhasura, she took birth in
the house of Kasyapa to kill Ganesa. One
day she BRAHMA
treacherously gave poisoned sweets to Ganesa. Ganesa
detected her treachery and fisted her to death. (Ganesa Bhrgu Khyati
2-21).
BHRASAKARISA. A Raksasa. He was the son of
KetumatI, by the Raksasa, Sumall. They had ten sons
Prahasta,Akampana, Vikata, Kalakamukha, Dhumra- Dhata = Ayati Vidhata = Niyati Kavi Laksmi = Visnu
ksa,_ Suparsva, Sarhhrada, Prakvata, and
Danda,
Bhrasakarna and four daughters Veka, Puspotkafa, Prana Mrkandu
Kaikasi and Kurhbhinasl. (Uttara Ramayana).
BHRGU. Dyutiman [arkanc
Markandeya
1
) General. A
sage, the son of Brahma. He was the I
j
founder of Bhrgu vaihsa. Members of the Bhrgu varhsa Vedasiras
Rajavan
are called 'Bhargavas.' Bhrguvarhsa has been
reputed
for many of its members who were Rsis of Second Birth: The second Bhrgu Varhsa is the family
great sanctity
and grandeur. which took its origin from the second birth of Bhrgu
2) Birth. as the son of Varuna. Varuna's son, Bhrgu married
"Utsamgad Narado jajiie the woman, Puloma. They had six children who were,
Dakso 'mgusthru svayambhuvah / Bhuta, Cyavana, Vajraslrsa, Suci, Sukra, and Savana.
Pranadvasisthah saayato By his first wife Bhuta, he had his sons, "Ekadasa
1
Bhrgustvacah karatkratuh". // Rudras" (eleven Rudras) and "Rudra Parsadas"
!*Narada was born from Brahma's lap, Daksa from his
Amgustha, Vasisjha from his Praija, Bhrgu from his skin and Kratu from his arm.
BHRGU 140 BHRGt)
son, Pravati, by his wife Sukanya. Ruru or Sunaka was Siva's place. Siva rose from his seat and approached
the son of Pravati by the Apsara Ghrtaci. Ruru him to embrace and welcome him. Bhrgu, shrank back
saying, "Do not touch me ?" Siva became angry
and his wife Pramadvara had a son, Saunaka. Suka, and
the son of Bhrgu had two sons, Canda and Alarka and was about to hit him with his trident when Parvati
a daughter, Devayanl. This is the second Bhrgu Vamsa.
1
stopped him.
The family tree is given below. Bhrgu then turned his to Vaikuntha, the abode of
steps
Varuna =
Carsani
( 6) Bhrgu
was a member of Brahma's assembly also. the Brahmanic effulgence of the Maharsi, the fisherman
(M.B.' Sabha Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 19). was dazed. Mudgala took pity on Bhrsundi and advised
( 7)
Once Bhrgu blessed his son Rcika and his daughter- him to worship Lord Ganesa.
in-law Satyavati that they would have children. (M.B. From that time Bhrsundi gave up his evil ways, and
Vana Parva, Chapter 116, Verse 35). accepting the advice of Mudgala, started the worship
( 8)
Sri Krsna who went as the messenger of peace to of Ganesa with single-minded devotion. As a result
Hastinapura, travelled in Daksinavarta, along with the of it, an elephant's trunk began to grow from the middle
sage Bhrgu. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 83, Verse of his forehead. Bhrsundi who thus acquired a shape
27). closely resembling Ganesa, was visited by Indra, mis-
(9) Bhrgu entered the scene of battle between the Kurus taking him for Ganapati. (Ganesa 1.67).
:
and Pandavas and tried to persuade Dronacarya to BHU (H). In the creation of the world, the Lord broke
withdraw from the fight. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter the beginningless "Anda" (the primal egg or seed)
190, Verse 34). and from it the sound "Orh" emerged. The first sound
of it was "BHUH"; the second was "BHUVAH";
(10) Once Bhrgu lectured on the origin of the earth,
and the third was "SVAH". So the combination "Bhur
Philosophy of life, etc. (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter Bhuvah Svah" was formed. Then came the most
128).
adorable and superlative effulgence of the creator
(11) Bhrgu explained to Bharadvaja how the Panca- A
(Savita). That radiance dried up all water. little of
bhutas except the sky originated (Santi Parva, Chapter
the water became a highly viscous substance. This
183). viscous matter gradually solidified and became the earth.
( Bhrgu discussed in a logical manner, the principle
12) Where the anda originally was became the source of
of and the transmigration of the soul. (Santiparva,
life that supreme effulgence. As it was the first radiant
Chapter 187). light, it came to be called Aditya (adi
= first). The
(13) He made a critical examination of the merits and great procreator Brahma seemed to emerge from the
defects of racial discrimination. (Sand Parva, Chapter centre of the anda. The garbhajala ( the water contai-
187). ned in the anda) became the oceans and rivers of the
(14j Once Bhrgu bestowed Brahminhood on a King world. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 43).
named Vitahavya. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter BHUJAKETU. A king who fought on the side of Dur-
30, Verse 57). yodhana in the Bharata Yuddha.
(15; He got the name "Bhrgu" because he was born out BHUJANGA. A son of Kadru by Kasyapa prajapati.
of fire. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 105).
BHUJYU. A Rajarsi (royal sage), the son of Tugra.
(16) It was Bhrgu who gave the necessary advice to King Tugra sent his son with an army across the sea to
Agastya to depose Nahusa from Indra's post. conquer the enemies in a distant island. When the boat
BHUKAMPA 142 BHUMI I
in which they sailed had reached mid-ocean, it was the navel of Visnu and from its top Brahma was born.
caught in a storm and wrecked. The prince and the Liquid matter began to flow out of Visnu's ears on both
soldiers sank into the sea. At that time thj prince prayed sides. From it were born two Raksasas named Madhu
to the Asvins who saved Bhujyu from drowning and and Kaitabha. They persecuted Brahma. Mahavisnu
carried him back to the palace in boats and chariots woke up and killed Madhu and Kaitabha. The thick
travelling through the air. This story is given in the fat of these Raksasas hardened into the earth. (Devi
Rgveda where the adventures of Asvins are describ- Bhagavata, Navama Skandlu).
ed. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, 17th Anuvaka, 116th 3) In the beginning Mahavisnu (Mahavirat Purusa)
Sukta.). spread everywhere. In every pore of that Mahavirat
BHUKAMPA. (Earthquake). The cause of earth- who was lying on the surface of the water, there was a
quake according to ancient belief is given below: Brahmanda. In course of time that Virat obtained mind.
The earth is being supported and held in its position by That mind stood connected with each of the pores
an elephant called Virupaksa. When he feels the burden equally. Later from it were formed the "Pancamaha-
too heavy he shakes his head and earth tremors follow. bhutas". From their combination was formed the Bhuta
(Vahniki Ramayana, Ba.laka.nda, 40th Sarga). called "Maha Prthvi". It was cut into many pieces
BHtJLIJslGA (M). A
bird which lived on the opposite and each of the pieces was deposited in each pore.
side of the Himalayas. The cry of this bird resembles It was these Prthvi
pieces which became "Bhumis"
"MA SAHASA". 1 But this bird lived by pecking at at the time of creation. At the time of the floods, these
and eating the flesh between the teeth of a lion. Sisupala Bhumis sank again into those pores as before. In each
mentioned this bird as an example to illustrate that of these Brahmandas, there are the earth, mountains,
Bhisma's advice was at variance with his practice. forests, oceans, the seven islands, Himavan, Meru,
The bird exhorts people not to act in a rash way (Ma Sun, Moon, Stars and other planets. Also, each of
Sahasa) and at the same time acts rashly. them has its own Brahma, Visnu, Siva and other Devas.
BHUMANYU I. A
king who was the grandson of King Since all the different Bhumis in all the Brahmandas
Dusyanta and the son of Bharata. From Mahabharata had been formed artificially, they all perish in the floods.
Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verse 19, we see that he was (Devi Bhagavata, Navama Skandha).
born by the blessing of Bharadvaja. His mother was Bhumi Devi (Goddess Earth) is the wife of Maha
3)
Sunanda, daughter of Sarvasena, King of Kas"i. When Visnu. In Varaha Kalpa (Age of the Pig) the Asura
Bhumanyu grew up, his father Bharata entrusted him Hiranyaksa carried the Earth and Submerged it under
with the affairs of the Kingdom. Bhumanyu had six water. At once Maha visnu appeared in the form of a
sons by his wife PuskarinI; they were Diviratha, Suhotra,
Pig and lifted up the Earth on its horns. When the Earth
Suhota, Sukavi, Suyaju, and Rcika. In Mahabharata, floated on the surface of water like a lotus leaf, Bhumi
Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 33, we see that he had Devi who was pleased, stood up in her charming figure.
another son Suhotra by a woman Vijaya, a Dasarha Mahavisnu fell in love with her and with the brilliance
s maid. of a crore of suns, had sexual union with her for the
BHUMANYU II. There is another
Bhumanyu, grandson period of one Devavarsa. It is from that time that
of Kuru, a King of the Lunar dynasty and son of Bhumi Devi became Mahavisnu's wife. As a result
Dhrtarastra, mentioned in Maha Bharata, Adi Parva, of their union, a son named Mangala was born to
Chapter 94, Verse 59. them.
BHUMANYU III. A Deva Gandharva. He partici- Ghatesa is the son of Mangala. Mangala has another
pated in the celebrations connected with Arjuna's birth.
name, Covva. After the birth of Mangala, at the behest
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 91, Verse 35). of Lord Visnu, all people began to offer
BHUMI The earth.
I. worship to
Bhumidevi. Mahavisnu himself first worshipped her
1 The Puranas maintain that Bhumi
General. has a
by_ reciting the mantra "Om Hrlih-Srlm-Krlih-Vasu-
)
Devi (goddess). The births of Bhumi and its basic
dhayai Svaha". After that this mantra became popular
goddess are in two different ways.
The Mahabharata, (Daksinatya Pa{ha) says that the
for worshipping Bhumidevi.
(Devi Bhagavata, Navama
Skandha).
goddess Bhumi was the daughter of Brahma and that
she was married by Mahavisnu. The earth on which Narakasura was Bhumidevl's son by Hiranyaksa, the
we live is the Mrtpinda of which the basic deity is this Asura. When Hiranyaksa, in the form of a pig, carried
Bhumidevi. Of the many versions given in the Puranas Bhumidevi on his horns to Patala, the horns came in
contact with Bhumidevi and she became
regarding the origin of earth, three are given below : pregnant.
In Bhagavata, Das"ama Skandha we read that Naraka-
1
) Long ago, towards the end of the age of floods, the
earth was in a liquid state. At that time, Siva cut open sura was born as the result of this contact.
(See the
his thigh and let fall a drop of blood in the water. word Naraka I).
It assumed the form of an "anda" Sita was the daughter of Bhumidevi, born on another
(egg). Siva took that
anda and split it. A man came out of it. From him was occasion. Sita was married by the Kosala
King Sri
made Nature (Prakrti) for the creation of the Universe. Rama. When she was abandoned by her husband,
One half of the broken anda became sky and the other she was at last accepted by Bhumidevi within her own
half became the earth. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathapltha- self. (See the word
Sita).
lambaka, 2nd Taraiiga ) .
4) Bhumi and Prahldda. Since Bhumidevi had been the
(2) Mahavisnu lay on the surface of water which spread wife of the Asura Hiranyaksa she has also been called
everywhere in the beginning. A lotus sprang up from the mother of the Asura clan. brother was
Hiranyaksa's
I Ma Sahasa = Do not act rashly.
BHUMI II 143 BHURISRAVA (BHURISRAVAS)
Hiranyakasipu. Prahlada, the son of Hiranyakasipu, BHUMIPATI. A king of ancient India. There is a refe-
was a devotee of Visnu. The father did not like the son's rence to this King in M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter
devotion to Visnu. So he persecuted Prahlada in various 117, Verse 14.
ways. Once he threw down Prahlada from the top of BHUMlSAYA. A king in ancient India. M.B. Santi
a high building. At that time Bhumi devi appeared there Parva, Chapter 166, verse 75 says that King Amiirta-
and received him in her arms. (Brahmanda Purana, rayas gave a sword to Bhumij'aya who gifted it to Bharata,
Chapter 24). the son of Dusyanta.
5) Bhumidevi and Prthu. Once the Emperor Prthu BHUPATI. A visvadeva. (M.B. Anusasana Parva,
turned Bhumidevi into a cow and milched all resources Chapter 91, Verse 32).
from her. (For details, see the word Prthu). BHURI I. A king of the Kuru dynasty. Somadatta,
6 ) Pdrvati's curse. Once Parvati and Siva indulged in king of the Kuru dynasty had three sons, Bhuri, Bhuri-
their sexual act for many years. The earth began to sravas and Sala. 3 In M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 185,
shake to its foundations. The gods approached Siva we read that they had attended the Svayamvara of
with a request to refrain and he agreed. Siva's semen DraupadI and in Sabha Parva, Chapter 94 it is said
was discharged and fell on the earth. Parvati who was that they had taken part in Yudhisthira's Rajasuya.
angry at this, cursed Bhumidevi as follows: "You In Drona Parva, Chapter 166, we read that this King
Bhumidevi ! You will assume many forms and become Bhuri was slain by Satyaki during the war between
the wife of many. Since you have prevented me from Kauravas and Pandavas. After death, Bhuri obtained
giving birth to a son, no children will be born to you a place with the Visvedevas. (M.B. Svargarohana
in future." (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, 36th Sarga). Parva, Chapter 5, Verse 16).
7) Other details. BHURI II. A son of the sage Suka. Vyasa's son, Suka
(
1 y
Narakasura has another name, "Bhauma". (M.B. married Plvari, the daughter of Pitrs. She had four
Sabha Parva, Daksinatya Patha, Chapter 38). sons by Suka, who were named Krsna, Gauraprabha,
( 2) Bhumidevi prayed
to Sri Krsna and obtained Vaisna- Bhuri and Devairuta, and a daughter named Kirti.
vastra for her son Narakasura. (M.B. Drona Parva, (Devi Bhagavata, Prathama Skandha).
Chapter 29, Verse 30). BHURIBALA. (BillMABALA). One of the hundred
3) When Parasurama was carrying on the annihilation
(
sons of Dhrtarastra. Mahabharata Salya Parva, Chap-
of Ksatriyas, Bhumidevi induced the sage Kasyapa to ter 26, Verse 14 says that at the battle of Kuruksetra he
entreat Parasurama to stop his massacre of Bhupalas. was slain by Bhlmasena.
=
(Protectors of Bhumi Ksatriyas). (M.B. Santi Parva, BHURIDYUMNA I. A king in the assembly of Yama.
Chapter 79, Verse 44). He attained Heaven (Svargaloka) by virtue of his
(4) Once she (Bhumidevi) described to Sri Krsna, having performed godana (gift of cow). (M.B. Sabha
the greatness of Brahminhood. (M.B. Anuxasana Parva, Chapter 8, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 76).
Parva, Chapter 34, Verse 22).
BHURIDYUMNA II. A Maharsi. This sage once went
to Hastinapura as a messenger of peace. On the way he
( 5)
At another time she explained to Sri Krsna the
met with Sri Krsna whom he reverently worshipped by
nature of Grhasthasramadharma. (Duties of a horse-
doing "Pradaksinfi".
holder). (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 97, Verse 5). BHURIDYUMNA ill. He was the only son of Viradyu-
( 6)
On one occasion when King Anga touched her,
,
mna, a King. Bhuridyumna was lost somewhere in the
Bhumidevi lost her own form and vanished. At that forest. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 127, Verse 14)
time, Kasyapa prajapati paralysed her. (M.B. Anusa- BHURIHAN. A Raksasa. He was a king in ancient
sana Parva, Chapter 152, Verse 2). times. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 277, Verse 51 ).
( 7) Parasurama gifted the whole earth to the sage BHURIKIRTI. A king. He had two daughters, Campika
Kasyapa. From that time Bhumidevi has been called and Sumati who were married by Lava and Ku;:a res-
"Kasyapl" (daughter of Kasyapa). (M.B. Anusasana pectively. (Ananda Ramayana, Vivaha Kanda).
Parva, Chapter 154, Verse 7). BHORlSRAVA (BHORISRAVAS).
BHUMI II. Wife of Dhruva. This Bhumi devi, the (
1
)
General. He was
the son of Somada, a king of
daughter of Sisumara had two sons named Kalpa and Kuruvanua (Kuru
dynasty).
Vatsala, by Dhruva. (Bhagavata, Caturtha Skanda). (2) Other details. Bhurisravas had two brothers named
BHUMI III. Another Bhumi, who was the wife of a king Bhuri and Sala. They were all present at the Svayam-
named Bhumipati is mentioned in M.B. Udyoga vara of DraupadI. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 185,
Verse 14).
larva, Chapter 117, Verse 14).
He once described to Duryodhana, the heroic quali-
BHUMINJAYA. A warrior who fought on the side of ( 3)
ties of the Pandavas and advised him to maintain peace-
the Kauravas. He took his position in the centre of the
ful relations with them. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 199,
"Garuda Vyuha" (Name of a phalanx) formed by
Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 20, Verse 13). Daksinatya Patha).
(4) He took part in Yudhisthira's Rajasuya yajfia
BHUMIPALA. A Ksatriya king of ancient India. He with his father and brothers. (M.B. Sabha Parva,
was born from a portion of an Asura called Krodhavasa.
Chapter 34, Verse 8).
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 61). (5) In the war between Kauravas and Pandavas, he
BHUMIPARVA. A subdivision of Bhlsmaparva in arrived with an "Aksaiihim" (A division of the army)
Mahabhiirata. Chapters 11 and 12 of Bhlsma 1'arva in order to give help to Duryodhana. (M.B. Udyoga
are included in this. Parva, Chapter 19, Verse 16).
i In Agnipurana, Chapter 278, we see another statement that isanlanu, king of the Lunar dynasly, had three tecs, Dcvapi,
Balhika and Somada and of them Balhika had four sons, Somadatta, Bhuri, BhOrisravas and Sala.
BHOR1TEJAS 144 BHUSUiyDA
(6)Bhisma once remarked that Bhurisravas deserved All these Matrs assembled together on one occasion to
to be counted among the Rathis and Yuthapatis. celebrate a festival in the sky. There was a display of
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 165, Verse 29). many kinds of entertainments at that time. Disputations
( 7)
On the first day of the battle at Kuruksetra Bhuri- in spiritual matters, music, dancing, drinking and other
sravas fought a duel with Sarhkha. (Bhlsma Parva, forms of hilarious activities were freely indulged in.
Chapter 45, Verse 35). In another part of the sky, their vehicles were also
(8) He fought with Satyaki (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 63, enjoying themselves with similar celebrations of drinking,
Verse 33). dancing, and merry-making. The swans who were the
(9) He killed the ten sons of Satyaki. (Bhlsma Parva, vehicles of BrahmidevI were dancing in one place,
Chapter 74, Verse 25). intoxicated by drink. Canda, the crow, who was Alam-
(10) Defeated Dhrs{aketu in battle. (Bhlsma Parva, busa's vehicle, also joined their company. Completely
Chapter 84, Verse' 35). absorbed in their delirious raptures, the intoxicated
(11) He
fought a duel with Bhimasena. (Bhlsma Parva, swans indulged so freely in their amorous pleasures with
Chapter 11, Verse 44). Canda that they became pregnant. At last when the
(12) A duel was fought with Sikhandi. (Drona Parva, merry-makings ended and all of them dispersed, the swans
Chapter 43, Verse 45). became aware of their plight and informed Brahml
(
down under the stroKe of Satyaki.
13) Bhurisravas fell about it. The gracious goddess (Brahml) told them
(Drona Parva, Chapter 142, Verse 59). that in their present state they were unable to discharge
( 14) Arjuna
cut off the left arm of Bhurisravas. (Drona their duties in drawing her chariot and so they were allow-
.Parva, Chapter 141, Verse 72). ed to go and enjoy themselves wherever they liked. After
(15) Enraged by Arjuna's action, Bhurisravas squatted this she entered into a trance. The swans in the fullness
on th: ground to attain Svarga (Heaven). (Drona Parva, of time, gave birth to twentyone sons. We, the twenty-
Chapter 143, Verse 33). one brothers, arc those children. We and our mothers
(16) Satyaki killed Bhurisravas. (Drona Parva, Chapter went to BrahmidevI and offered worship to her for a
143, Verse 54). long time. As a result, the Devi woke up from her trance
(17) After death Bhurisravas became a Visvadeva. and pleased with us, gave us her blessing. After that,
(Svargarohana Parva, Chapter 5, Verse 16). we went to our father (Canda) and off. red our devoted
( 18) of the other names of Bhurisravas given in
Some services tohim and prostrated before him and Alam-
Mahabharata are Bhuridaksina, Salagraja, Kaurava,
: busadevl. They blessed us. We asked our father to
Kauraveya, Kauravya, Yupaketana, Yupaketu, Sardula, suggest a most suitable place for a secluded life. This
Kurusrestha, Kurudvaha. Kalpa Vrksa is the secluded place recommended by
BHORITEJAS. A king in ancient India. He was born him. We paid obeisance to our father and Alambu-
from a portion of the Asura Krodhavasa, according sadevi and came to settle down here. Many ages have
to Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 63). passed since then. Now your visit and holy presence
BHUSUISPA. A dispassionate and large-hearted crow. here, have liberated me from all worldly bonds and
The residence of this crow was a Kalpavrksa standing ennobled my life. Mytwenty brothers lived for many
on a beautiful peak surrounded by luxuriant vegetation Kalpas and yugas at the end of which, convinced of the
in the north-eastern corner of Mahameru. There were meaninglessness of worldly life, renounced their bodies
numerous bird-nests on the southern branch of that and attained Sivaloka.
Kalpavrksa. In one of them lived this centuries-old On hearing this, Vasistha asked Bhusunda to tell him
bird. more about his past life. Bhusunda resumed his story:
Once when the sage Vasistha went to Devaloka, he "Long long ago, the whole earth was full of big rocks,
happened to hear about this crow. He went to see without trees, forests or mountains. After a great flood
Bhusunda in its nest. The crow recognised Vasistha the surface of the earth was covered with ashes. In
at once. They exchanged greetings. The sage opened one caturyuga (a period equal to the length of the four
the conversation as follows: "Oh, King of birds !
yugas, Krta, treta, dvapara and Kali) the earth was
when were you born ? How did you become a great filledwith forest trees and in another Caturyuga, moun-
soul ? How old are you ? Have you recollections of the tain ranges appeared. I have seen an age in which
past ? Who was the prophet who suggested this residence Brahmanas were drunkards, Sudras were virtuous and
for you ?" women of noble families committed adultery. You
The bird calmly replied as follows "If you are interes-
: have now been born in the eightieth "Janma" as the
ted in hearing my past history I shall tell you. Lord son of Brahma. You were born once from the sky, at
Sankara the Almighty lives in this world. He has numer- another time from water, then from the mountain and
ous attendant spirits. Besides these spirits who have again from fire. I can remember this earth sinking into
hoofs on their head, hands in the hoofs, teeth in the ocean five times and Lord Visnu taking the form of
the hands and stomach in the face, and who have faces a tortoise, lifting it up, above the water. I have seen the
resembling those of monkeys, camels, and elephants, ocean of milk being churned twelve times. I know that
he has also hordes of Matrs in his retinue. The Matrs, Hiranyaksa had taken the earth three times to Patala
attended by spirits continue their dance in the presence (underworld). The Lord has incarnated six times as
of the Lord. Mountain peaks, the sky, the different Bhargava Rama. Incarnation of Buddha has taken
worlds, deep pits, cremation grounds, etc. are their place in six Kaliyugas. Tripuradahana (burning of
haunts. Chief among these Matrs are eight sisters the Tripurasuras) has taken place thirty times. Daksa
named, Jaya, Vijaya, Jayant!, Aparahita, Siddha, yaga was broken up twice. Lord Siva has slain ten
Rakta, Alambusa and Ulpala. They have other follow- Indras. He fought seven times with Sri Krsna for the
ers also. Alambusa's vehicle is the crow named Canda. sake of Bana. I also remember another epic entitled
BHUTADHAMA 145 BILVA
"Ramayana", containing one lakh of verses and dealing and Khatvamga etc. are their weapons. The emblem
with metaphysical problems. I have seen the customs on the banner is a cow or a bird. That is how the
of Krtayuga being followed in Kaliyuga and the customs Gananayakas have got the titles like "Mayuradhvaja",
of Kaliyuga being followed in Krtayuga." "Mayuravahana". (Vamana Purana 67, 1-23).
Having heard the whole story, Vasistha gave his blessing 4) War with Asuras. In the war between Siva and
to Bhu^unda and left the Andhakasura, the Bhutas fought on the side of Siva.
place. (Jnana Vasistha,
Bhu undopakhyana). It was Vinayaka, the master of the Bhuta hordes who
BHUTADHAMA. An Indra. This Indra is different first came into conflict with the Asura. In that battle
from the actual Indra. There is reference to this Indra Andhaka defeated Vinayaka. After that, Nandi, an-
in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 96, Verse 28. other leader of the Bhutas, attacked Andhaka jointly
BHUTAJYOTI. A king who was the father of Vasu and with Vinayaka and defeated him. At last, Andhaka
son of Sumati. approached Siva himself for protection, and Siva received
BHUTAKARMA. A warrior who fought on the side of him and appointed him as commander of one of his
the Kauravas in the battle at Kuruksetra. He was hordes of Bhutas. It is this Andhakasura who later
killed by Satanika, the son of Nakula. (M.B. Drona became famous under the name of Bhriigi.
Parva, Chapter 22, Verse 25). In this way, the Bhutas had fought many battles with
BHUTALAYA (M). A famous village in the puranas. the Asuras, joining the party of the Devas. But at the
It was a resort of thieves and robbers. Dead bodies time of Daksa's yajna, they joined the party of the Asuras
were often thrown into the river which was flowing and opposed the Devas.
through this village. Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chap- Although the Bhutas won all the battles they fought both
ter 129, verse 9 says that it was against Sastras to bathe on the side of the Devas and on the side of the Asuras,
in this river. in the end they had to leave north India and to come and
BHUTAMATHANA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M. settle down in south India. By the time of Vaivasvata
B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 69). manvantara they had already become South Indians.
BHUTASANTAPANA. One of the sons of Hiranyaksa. BHUTIVARMA. A Raksasa who was the friend of
(Bhagavata, Saptama Skandha). Kanabhuti. (Kathasaritsagara).
BHfJTASARMA. A warrior who fought on the side of BHUVANA I. A Maharsi who visited Bhisma when he
the Kauravas against the Pandavas. He had taken his was lying on the verge of death. (M.B. Anusasana
position in the "Garudavyuha" (name of a phalanx) Parva, Chapter 26, Verse 81).
formed by Dronacarya. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter BHUVANA II. A sanatana Visvadeva. There is a
20, Verse 6). reference to him in M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 91,
BHUTAS. (A set of beings created by Rudra). Verse 35.).
1
)
General. A Manava class or sect in ancient India. BHUVANA II. A sanatana Visvadeva. There is a
In the Puranas, this Manava sect is classified into four reference to him in M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter
subdivisions. (1 ) Dhirmapraja (2) IsVarapraja (3) 91, Verse 35.).
Kasyapiyapraja (4) Pulahapraja. BHUVANA. Brhaspati's sister. She was married to
2) Birth. In the Brahmanda Purana there is the follow- Prabhasa, one of the As^avasus. A son named Visva-
ing story about the birth and shape of Bhutas: karma was born to them. (Brahmanda Purana, 3-3-21-
Bhutas are one of the subdivisions of Pulaha's creations. 29).
Long ago, Brahma asked the Rudra, Nilalohita, to BHUVANESA. See the word Bhadrasravas.
perform the function of creation. Accordingly he begot BlBHATSU. One of the ten names of Arjuna. He got
thousands of Bhutas in the womb of his wife Sati. All this name because he desisted from doing loathful acts.
the issues were the exact replica of his own figure. "I will never resort to loathful deeds in war. Therefore
Lean limbs, long ears, thick hanging lips, red eyes, bushy the devas and men call me Bibhatsu". (Mahabharata,
eyebrows, long, pointed and protruding teeth, long nails, Virata Parva, Chapter 44, Stanza 18).
matted dirty hair etc. were the grotesque features of BIDALA. A minister of Mahisasura. (Devi Bhagavata).
these Bhutas. These music-haters used serpents as their BIpALOPAKHYANA. See the word Dirhdika.
Yajnopa vitas (sacred threads). These spirits who loitered BIDAUJAS. A son born to Aditi by the blessings of
in Siva's assembly were, as a rule, naked and carried Visnu. (Padma Purana, Bhumikanda, Chapter 3).
skulls on their heads. But at times they wore fantastic BILVA. (VILVA). A devotee of Visnu. There is a
dress with elephant skin. Their chief weapons were, story in Skanda Purana about
Bilva who lived as a
trident, bow, sword, etc. Vaisnavite first and then was converted to a Saivite.
3) Bhuta Chief. In the Puranas, Rudra is acknowledged In the beginning Brahma created many things among
as the Bhuta chief. That is why Rudra is known by such which Vilva (tree) (Crataeva religiosa) also was
names as "Bhutanayaka", "Gananayaka", "Rudranu- created. Under that tree an anonymous man began to
cara", "Bhavaparisada" etc. But since the common live. Brahma gave him the name Vilva. Being pleased
name Rudra is used for the ruler (king) of all the at the behaviour and devotion of Bilva, Indra asked him
Bhutas, Vamana Purana declares that Rudra is not an to turn the wheel of administration of the earth. Accep-
individual. Both Vamanapurana and Matsyapurana ting the offer Bilva requested
Indra to give him the
represent Virabhadra and Nandikesvara as two Rudras Vajra (diamond) for the smooth running of the adminis-
who are the masters of Bhutas. (Matsyapurana 181, tration of the earth. Indra told him that vajrayudha
2; Vamanapurana 4, 17). (diamond-weapon )
would be at his disposal, when he
In Vamana Purana, the number of Bhutas is given as thought about it, if the occasion required it.
1 1 crores.
Skanda, Sakha, Bhairava are the chief among Once Kapila a Saivite reached the palace of Bilva.
them. Under them are innumerable Bhutas, Ashes After a long conversation both became fast friends. One
BILVAKA 146 BODHISATTVA
day there was a debate between Bilva and Kapila as to ( 6) At this place, Maya, the asura gave Ar juna the famous
whether penance or Action (doing one's duty) was conch known as Devadatta and to Bhlmasena the famous
appreciable. In this discussion Bilva lost the equilibrium club of Vrsaparva. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 3).
of his mind and thinking of the diamond-weapon of BODHA. A king. In the Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
Indra cut off the head of Kapila. In Kapila there was Chapter 14, Stanza 20, mention is made that this King
the power of penance as well as the pov\er of Siva. So fled to South India with his brothers and relatives
fearing
through Siva Kapila got immortality. In the meanwhile the attack of Jarasandha.
Bilva went to Visnu and got a boon that every living BODHA(M). A place in ancient India. It is famous
thing in the earth should fear him. But the boon was in the Puranas. Mention is made about this place
futile. This was a turning point for Bilva. The mind of in M_ahabharata. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 39.
Bilva changed to devotion for Siva. He concentrated his BODHAYANA. An individual of the lineage of teachers.
attention on the worship of Sivalinga at the forest of (See the word Guruparariipara ) .
Mahakala. One day Kapila came by that way and was BODHISATTVA. A good-natured husband generally
greeted by Bilva with honour and regard, and they quoted in Sanskrit works. The following is the story
again became fast friends. given about him in Kathasaritsagara, Tarariga 9.
BILVAKA. A famous serpent born to Kasyapa praja- Once there lived a wealthy Vaisya. who had a son named
pati of his wife Kadru. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Bodhisattva. When the childhood of the boy was at an
Chapter 35, Stanza 12). end his mother died. The Vaisya married again and got
BILVAKATlRTHA. A holy place in Haradvara. It is his son also married. Because of the ear-buzzing of his
mentioned in Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter wife, the Vaisya drove his son out of the house. Bodhi-
25, Stanza 13 that those who bathe in this holy Bath will sattva left the house of his father, with his wife. By
attain heaven. and by they reached a desert. Not a drop of water was to
BILVAPAl^DURA. A serpent. The father of this serpent be had. There was not even the shoot of a grass. It was a
was Kasyapa and mother, Kadru. (M.B. Adi Parva, sandy place with nothing else in sight. He walked for
Chapter 35, Stanza 12). seven days carrying his wife on his shoulders. His wife
BILVAPATRA. A serpent born in the family of Kasyapa grew weary and worn with hunger and thirst. Seeing
prajapati. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103, Stanza that she was about to die he gave her his flesh and blood.
14). The wicked woman took them and saved herself from
BILVATEJA. A serpent born in the family of Taksaka. death. On the eighth day they reached the jungles of a
This serpent was burnt to death by falling in the sacrificial hilly place full of fruit-trees and with a river with grassy
fire of Janamejaya. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 57, banks, flowing down to the valley. With fruits and cool
Stanza 9). water he appeased the hunger and thirst of his wife.
BINDUGA. A Brahmana who lived in the village of Then he got down to the river to take a bath. He saw
Baskala. Being a frequenter of the houses of harlots a man with his limbs cut off, coming afloat. Now and
and of various other mean habits, he had led his wife then he was producing pitiable sounds. The kind son of
Cancala also to lead an immoral life. Once Binduga the Vaisya, without minding his weakness due to fast for
called his wife and told her thus: "You may continue the last seven days, swam to the man and brought him to
the life of a harlot; but all the money acquired must be the bank of the river. He did all services possible for him.
handed over to me." Thus they continued their lives Then he asked him who had cut off his limbs. He rep-
and after their death both were reborn as devils in the lied that his enemies had done so, with the intention that
mountain of Vindhya. In the midst of their life as devils, he might die suffering severe pain for a long time. The
once it chanced for Cancala to hear the Siva Purana Vaisya's son stood still for a little while. Then he took
recited and she got her shape of devil changed. She his bath. With his wife he lived in the forest doing
requested Parvati to change the shape of her husband penance. The wounds of the man he saved had been
also. Parvati sent her attendant Tumburu to Binduga healed. The Vaisya's son, one day, went out to the
to tell him the story of Siva and thus he also got his form forest to gather fruits and roots for their food. At that
changed. (Siva Purana Mahatmya). time his wife grew lustful and had coition with the man
BINDUMATl. The queen of the great King Mandhata. without limbs. Gradually she began to dote on him. She
BindumatI was the daughter of the King Sasabindu. decided to kill her husband who was an impediment on
Purukutsa and Mucukunda were the two sons born to her way. She pretended to be ill. The Vaisya's son began
her from Mandhata. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 7). to treat her. One day she took her husband to the edge of
BINDUSARAS. A holy place famous in the Puranas. a very deep well and said: "See, there is a divine herb at
The following information is obtained from the Puranas the bottom of this well. I will be cured if I could eat it.
about this holy place. This is what a goddess told me in a dream yesternight".
f 1 ) Bindusaras lies on the north of the Mount Kailasa. Hearing this her husband made a rope, and tied it to a
(Mahabharata Sabha Parva, Chapter 3, Stanza 2). tree. Then he began to go down the well by the rope.
( 2)
It was at Bindusaras that Bhaglratha did penance She cut the rope and the man fell into the well. There
to bring down Ganga to the earth (Sabha Parva, Chapter was a passage from the well to the river. The current
3, Stanza 10). took him through that passage to the river. He got out of
( 3) Devendra performed hundred sacrifices at this place. the river, and sat under a tree thinking of the wickedness
(Maha Bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 3). of women. There was a city close by. At that time the
(4) Once Siva performed a sacrifice at Bindusaras. King of the city was dead and there was no heir left. The
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 3). subjects of the city brought an elephant and said, "whom
( 5) Sri Krsna did penance here for several years to get ever this elephant takes and places on his back shall be
righteousness. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 3, Stanza 11). our king". They sent the elephant out. The elephant
BODHYA 147 BRAHMA
was pleased at the virtuous character of the son of the (powers) named Rati, Bhiiti, Buddhi, Mati, Klrti,
Vaisya. So taking him, as if he was God, placed him on Dhrti, Smrti, Sraddha, Medha, Svadha, Svaha, Ksudha,
its back and walked to the city. The people Nidra, Daya, Gati, Tusti, Pusti, Ksama, Lajja, Jrrhbha
gathered
round him and anointed him as their King. Trie son of and Tandra, appeared before Mahavisnu, who was
the Vaisya became King. He never even thought of struck with wonder. Mahadevi said, "Oh, Visnu, what
women who are generally fickle and wicked. is there to wonder at ? Every time the universe is sub-
The wicked wife of the Vaisya's son took the limbless jected to creation, preservation and destruction, you
man on her shoulder and wandered about saying, "The are born thus due to the great power of the supreme
enemies of my husband have put him in this plight. spirit. It seems that you have forgotten those matters.
Because of my conjugal fidelity I carry him thus and Know that the supreme power is beyond qualities. We
earn our daily bread. Please give us alms". In this are all with qualities. Your main quality is Sattva.
manner she spent her days in begging. Thus wandering From your nave Brahma will be born. His attribute is
from place to place she reached the city where the Rajoguna (activity, passion or motion ) From the middle .
Vaisya's son was the King. The people, seeing her of the eyebrows of Brahma, will be born Rudra, whose
loyalty to her husband, honoured her and spoke highly attribute will be Tamasaguna (darkness). Brahma,
of her. Hearing that a very loyal wife had reached his with the power of penance, will acquire the ability of
city the King sent for her. The King recognized her creation and by his attribute of Rajoguna will create
instantly. But she did not know him. The King reminded the world in the colour of blood. You will be the preserver
her of her deeds of the past one by one and began to of that world. The same world will be destroyed by
tease and scold her. Finally when she understood that Rudra at the end of the Kalpa (world age)".
the King was her husband she was dumb-founded. The Accordingly from the nave ofVisnu a lotus grew up and
amazed ministers looked at each other. The King reveal- in that lotus flower Brahma took his form. The same
ed everything to them. The ministers disfigured her and Brahmadeva did penance before Mahavisnu and Jaga-
drove her away. damba, who were pleased at his penance and gave him
BODHYA. A famous teacher-priest. Once there was a allthe boons he wanted. After that Brahma began the
Nahusa and Bodhya on Philosophy.
discussion between work of creation. He created with his mind the Saptarsis,
The summary of what Bodhya said is as follows: (seven sages) and then the Prajapatis (the lords of
Before I advise others, I do it myself first. I am the tea- emanation). From them all the movables and the
cher of none. I take the world as my teacher. I learned immovables in the universe came into existence. (Devi
the lessons of harmlessness from snakes, disappointment Bhagavata, Skandha 7).
from Pirigala the harlot, self-sacrifice from animals, In manusmrti, Chapter 1 the following stanza about the
,
concentration from the archer, and loneliness from a maid creation of Brahma occurs.
who is a spinster. (M.B., Sand Parva, 171, 56, 61 ). "Tadandamabhavad haimam
This hermit came to the King Yayati and taught him Sahasramsusamaprabham /
philosophy and ethics. The whole of the Chapter 171 Tasmin jajne svayam Brahma
of Mahabharata, Santi Parva, comprises the exhortations Sarvalokapitamahah" //
of this hermit, which are known by the famous name That egg was as radiant as the Sun,with the colour of
Bodhya -Gita (Song of Bodhya). gold. Brahma the great grandfather of everything in the
BRADHNA&VA. A king. Agastya once approached this world took birth by himself in it.
King to request himfor some wealth. (See the word From the supreme power, an egg fell on the water which
Agastya). was the first creation. That egg became a germ of golden
BRAHMA : colour. Creating a life, which had done penance in its
One of the trimurtis of the Hindu Pantheon. The tri- former births in such a way as to enable it to become
murtis are Brahma, Visnu and Siva. Brahma, in the golden germ of the egg, the supreme power
1
) General information. God who is the creator of the entered the life that is to become Brahma as its inner
Universe. It is mentioned in the Puranas that Brahma guide. That Brahma is known as the Pitamaha (Grand-
creates, Visnu preserves and Paramasiva destroys the father of the manes ) or Paternal grandfather of all the
universe. worlds."
2) The birth of Brahma. Thebirth of Brahma is from Vamanapurana Chapter 43 states as follows about the
the nave of Visnu. It is mentioned in Devi Purana, creation of Brahma :
Skandha 1, about the birth of Brahma as follows: Ages before the beginning, when all the worlds with
In the beginning Mahavisnu lay on a banian leaf in the
everything they contained were submerged in the single
shape of a baby and began to think, "Who am I? Who ocean of the great flood, the germ of living things formed
created me ? What for ? What is my work ? Where to itself into a big egg. Brahma who had been inside the
work ?" and so on. At that time an ethereal voice said :
egg went to a long sleep. The sleep continued for a
"Sarvarh khalvidamevaharh nanyadasti sanata- thousand yugas (ages ) when Brahma woke up as ;
nam".* Mahavisnu was amazed at this ethereal Sattva guna (purity) was the foremost attribute of him,
voice. He did not know whose oracle it was. Still He he saw that the world was void. When the thought of
lay meditating upon the words. Then Mahadevi, creation occurred in his mind Rajoguna (activity or
with four hands and weapons such as Sankha passion) became his foremost attribute. Rajas is the
(conch),
Cakra (wheel), Gada (club), Padma (lotus) and attribute that creates and Sattva, that which preserves.
maids who are prosperities and having worn glorious At the time of destruction Tamoguna (darkness) be-
clothes and ornaments, and accompanied comes the foremost That Bhagavan (Supreme
by the Saktis attribute.
I Idam sarvam khalu aham eva, Sanatanam anyad nasti. All these are myself. Except me there is nothing eternal.
BRAHMA 148 BRAHMA
Spirit) thePurusa (the Male creative Energy) pervades brought this to convince you. You have been defeated.
over everything, in all the living worlds. That Eternal So can you not admit that I am the superior ?"
Being is Brahma, Visnu, Siva. Mahavisnu did not believe the words of Brahma. So he
Knowing that the world was lying in pure water, the called the Pandanus flower to him and questioned it.
Bhagavan (Supreme Being) cut the egg open. From it the The Pandanus flower took false oath and witnessed in
Omkara (the sacred syllable 'Om' ) emanated. The favour of Brahma, who had asked the flower before-
first sound of it was 'Bhuh', the second, sound, 'Bhuvah' hand to be on his side. Mahavisnu did not believe
and the third sound 'Svah'. So they came to be known this either and said, "Let Siva be witness to this flower".
as "Bhurbhuvah Svah". Then the glorious radiance of Siva at these words appeared before them and revealed
the sun was born from it and Brahma the grandfather of the deceit played by Brahma and the flower and then
the worlds originated in the centre of the egg. cursed the Pandanus flower that thenceforward it
3) Instigation to compose Ramayana. It was Brahma who should not have a place among the flowers of oblation
instigated Valmlki to compose the Ramayana. to Siva. Then Siva got angry and plucked off a head
A fowler of the forest tribe shot down one of a couple of of Brahma. That is the skull Siva uses for receiving
snipes which were carrying on love-making, on the banks alms. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 5.)
of the River Tamasa. Seeing this Valmiki cursed the in them
(2 ) In days of old all the worlds with everything
fowler. The curse came out of the mouth of Valmlki were under water in a single ocean. The Sun, the
in the form of a verse, 1 "ma nisada pratistham tvama- Moon, the Stars, air, fire, everything was destroyed. A
gamah sasvatih
samah, yat krauncamithunadekam, day of utter darkness appeared. Grass, bush all were
avadhih kamamohitam," which according to hearsay, destroyed. Nothing could be seen and recognized. All
is the first piece of poetry in the world. Brahma who existents and non-existents were destroyed. Bhagavan,
was attracted by the poetry came to the hermitage of (Supreme Being) was sleeping continuously for so many
Valmiki and instigated him to compose the story of thousands of nights. At the end of the night Bhagavan
Rama in verse. It is stated in Valmiki Ramayana, assumed the attribute of Rajas (Activity) and got ready
Balakanda, Sarga 2, that the Ramayana was composed for the work of creation. He, the knower of all Vedas
thus. and Vedarigas appeared in the shape of a wonderful be-
4) Havana is given a boon. It was Brahma who made
ing with five faces. Another being with three eyes,
matted
Ravana an ever-powerful hero. Penance was done by hair, a trident in one hand, and a garland of beads in the
Ravana in the vicinity of the Himalayas and Brahma other, and with darkness as its attribute took shape. That
appeared before him and granted him the boon that no being was called Purusa (the male creative energy).
living creature except man, would kill him. (Valmiki Then the Mahatma (the Supreme Spirit) created Aharii-
Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Sarga 16). kara (Egoism). It affected Brahma and Siva. Overcome
5) The loss of a head. Long ago Siva plucked off a head by egoism, Siva said to Brahma: "Who are you ? Who
of Brahma. This story occurs in various puranas with created you ?" Swelled with egoism Brahma asked in
slight changes. Two of them are given below: reply: "Who are you? Who are your parents? Let
(1) In olden days, in the period of Satyayuga, Maha- me hear it." This talk ended in a quarrel. The origin of
visnu did penance in Svetadvlpa (the island Sveta) Bhagavan Lord) was from this quarrel. Immedi-
(the
to obtain Eternal Bliss, being deeply engaged in the
study ately after his birth the Lord took an unparralleled lute
of Brahmavidya. Brahma also went to another place and playing it, went up to the sky. Siva being defeated
and began to do penance for the suppression of passions. by Brahma, bowed his head and coloured. While Para-
Both were doing severe penance. So they began to mesvara was standing angrily thus, the fifth face told
walk in order to take rest from the penance. On the way him, "You, who are having three eyes and whose attri-
they met each other. One asked "who are you ?" The bute is darkness look here I will tell you all. You, who
! !
other also asked the same question. The talk ended in a wear air as garments, and ride on an ox, are the destroyer
contest as to who was the greater of the two. Each of the world." Hearing these words Siva grew more and
claimed himself to be the supreme power of the world. more angry, opened his third eye and looked steadily
Neither of them was prepared to recognize the claims at Brahma to burn him. Seeing the faces shining like the
of the other. In the midst of this contest, a phallus, Sun Brahma said, "When you beat on water, bubbles will
extra-ordinarily bulky and fair appeared before them and appear. But do they have any prowess
? Hearing this,
an ethereal voice said from the sky: "You need not Siva plucked off the head of Brahma with the tip of his
quarrel as to who is superior. He who reaches the extre- finger nails. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 2).
mity of this phallus is the superior person. So both of 5) Changing Vijayalaksmi to Lankalaksmi, by
curse. Vijaya-
you proceed, one upwards and the other downwards laksmi, one of the eight Laksmis, was the treasury-
and find out the end." Hearing this Visnu went down- keeper of Brahma. Once she became
careless in dis-
wards to find out the bottom and Brahma, upwards to charging her duties. Brahma got angry and cursed her.
the top. Visnu travelled for a long time and finding no "You go to Ravana and keep his tower". She humbly
end thought the attempt futile and returned to the start- requested for absolution from the curse. Brahma said,
ing point with disappointment and sat down. "At the time of the incarnation of Sri Rama, a monkey-
Brahma travelled upwards for a long time and found no hero named Hanuman will reach Lanka in search of Sri
end. On the way he saw the petal of a pandanus flower, Rama's wife, whom Ravana had kidnapped. You will
coming down from the sky. Brahma took it and joyfully obstruct him, and he will strike you down. On that day
you will be absolved from the curse and you
returned and said haughtily to Visnu will return
"See, I have :
taken this flower from the head of the Phallus. I have here instantly." Accordingly Vijayalaksmi was born in
I You forester, your life will not continue for many years since you have killed one of the couple of snipes.
BRAHMA 149 BkAHMA
Lanka under the name Laiikalaksml. When Hanuman it isneeded". Thinking thus it gazed at the face of Devi
jumped to Lanka she prevented him, and he struck her with staring eyes and consequently it lost one eye.
down to the ground. (Kariipa Ramayana, Sundara Pronouncing the word Brahma Devi did penance for a
Kanda). hundred years. After that Brahma, the Lord of the three
6) Brahma cursing the daughters of Himavdn. Three dau- worlds appeared before her and said to her: "I am much
ghters named Kutila, Ragim and ParvatI and a son pleased. Your penance was flawless. Ask your boon."
named Sunabha were born to Himavan by his wife Kali replied, "Oh, Lotus-born ! First give this tiger a
Mena. The three daughters went to the Himalayas for boon. It will please me." Then Brahma gave the wonder-
ful tiger leadership of the Ganas, devotion to Siva, invin-
penance, to get Siva as husband. They were not even
six years old then. The devas saw them. The cibility and
righteousness. After giving the tiger this boon
Adityas
and the Vasus took Kutila who was doing penance, to Brahma told ParvatI, "Now, Ambika, ask your boon.
the world of the gods. All the gods gathered together Don't hesitate, I will grant the boon." Then ParvatI
and asked Brahma. "Oh Lord, be pleased to tell us if asked the boon. "Brahma, give me golden colour".
this girl will be able to bear a son who could kill Mahisa- Brahma said "Let it be so", and disappeared. The
sura". Brahma replied. "This poor girl will not be dark complexion of Parvati disappeared. She got the
capable of bearing the radiance of Siva. So let her go colour of the filament of the lotus flower. From the dis-
away." Kutila got angry at Brahma and said "Lord, carded skin Katyayanl was born. Then Indra appeared
I will try to become fit to bear the unbearable radiance of and asked for her as a gift. Indra requested Parvati on
Siva. Harken, I will do penance properly and please behalf of heaven. "Let me have her. Let this KausikI
Visnu and make Siva bow his head. I take a vow to be my sister. Because she was born from your Kosa,
that effect." Brahma became angry and told Kutila, (outer skin) she is KausikI, I am also Kausika." Devi
"You, wicked Kutila, you did not succumb to my words. gave the beautiful KausikI to Indra. Sahasraksa (Indra
So by my curse you will be turned to water." who has thousand eyes) took her to the Vindhya moun-
Kutila having been cursed by Brahma became water tain; when they reached there Indra told her. "You stay
and began to Hood the world of Brahma. Seeing the flow on this mount, honoured and revered by gods. You will
of water, Brahma made cause-ways on four sides with the be known as Viridhyavasini (who stays on the Vindhya).
Vedas of Rg, Yajus, Sama and Atharva. Thus being He consecrated the goddess there. She was given a lion
tied up she stays in the world of Brahma. as her carrier (Vahana) "You destroy the asuras ?"
The Devas took Ragim also before Brahma and put the saying so Indra returned to Heaven. (Vamana Purana,
same question. The reply of Brahma was the same as Chapter 54).
before. She also got angry and said to Brahma. "I will 8) Brahma became river. Long ago in the period of
Caksusa manvantara (the age of a Manu), Brahma
do great penance so as to enable to give birth to one in
decided to perform a sacrifice on the Sahya Mountain
my family to be the killer of Mahisasura." Brahma and preparations were made for it. Brahma came with
cursed her also. "You are deliberately disobeying my
Visnu and Siva. Bhrgu and the other hermits took their
words which even devas won't gainsay. So you will be-
seats. Mahavisnu called Svaradevi, the wife of Brahma.
come the colours of the twilight." Thus she became the
But she was very slow in coming. The hermit Bhrgu
fast colours of the twilight, and her body was divid-
said to Visnu :"You yourself have gone to call Devi.
ed among the Pleiades. (Vamana Purana, Chapter
But she is very slow. The auspicious moment is coming
51). to an end. So how are we to commence the rituals ?"
7 ) Giving a boon to a tiger and golden colour to Pdrvati. The "If Svara does not appear before the end of the stipulated
first name of ParvatI, the daughter of Himavan was Kali. time we shall seat Gayatrl in her place," said Visnu.
She was given this name
(Kali) because of her dark Siva also agreed to it. So Bhrgu seated Gayatrl on the
complexion. After the marriage Siva and ParvatI led a right side of Brahma and the rituals were performed. By
household life in the golden house built by Visvakarma. then Svara reached the sacrificial hall. When she saw
Once Siva called Devi humorously, by the name Kali. that Gayatri was placed in her place and the rituals were
ParvatI got angry and said to her husband. "A wound by
performed she became angry, because of her quarrel
an arrow will be cured. If you cut down a tree by an with her co-wife. She called out: "Where the person to
axe it will sprout again. A wound inflicted by hard whom respect is due, is not given respect and where the
words will never be cured. The arrows of words shoot
person who ought not to be respected is given undue
out of the mouth. Those who are hit by them suffer
respect, there, scarcity, death and fear will be rampant.
pain day and night. Wise people should not shoot them She dared to sit on the right in my place. So she will
at others. You have violated that principle. So my lord,
grow lean and become a river which will not be seen in
I am going to do intensive penance. I will endeavour to
the world. All of you will become rivers because you have
create such a condition, that you may not call me by the
placed a person lower than me in my position." Hearing
name Kali again." Saying thus, ParvatI bowed before the curse of Svara, Gayatrl rose up trembling, and cursed
Paramesvara and bidding good-bye she went up into the Svara also to become a river. Before Svara was changed
air and reached the peak of Himalayas and thought of to a river, Brahma and the other gods rose up and
Jaya, Vijaya, Jayanti and Aparajita. Instantly they requested for absolution from the curse. Svara said,
arrived to see Kali. They got permission and stayed with
"Gods, it is because you have not given oblations to
ParvatI to attend on her.
Ganapati in the beginning of the sacrifice, that this
While Parvati was engaged in doing penance, a tiger, break, due to my anger, has been caused. My curse
with his weapons of tusks and claws came there from the cannot be futile. So each of you change to a river by
jungles of the Himalayas. Uma (Parvati) was standing your portions and we, your wives, will also become rivers
on one leg. The tiger began to think, "I shall do it when by our portions, and flow to the west."
BRAHMA 150 BRAHMA
Thus Brahma, Visnu and Mahesvara became rivers sagara, Lavanakalambaka, Taranga, 6, it is mentioned
with their portions. Brahma became the fast-flowing that Cupid was born from the Egoism of Brahma.
Kukudmati, Mahavisnu changed to river Krsna and (6)Madhuka and Golika. In Uttara Ramayana, men-
Siva, the river Venl. The devas also changed their tion is made that from the playful habit of Brahma, a
portions to rivers and flowed from the Sahya mountain giant named Madhuka and a giantess named Golika
to the east and their wives changed to rivers by their were born.
portions and flowed to the west. Svara and Gayatrl (7) Bhrgu. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Adi Parva,
flowed as two rivers to the west and then joined together
Chapter 5, Stanza 8, that the hermit Bhrgu was the son
as one river called Savitrl. Visnu and Siva who were of Brahma.
consecrated at the sacrifice by Brahma came to be called
(8)Jarhbavan. It is seen in Kaihpa Ramayana that
Bala and Atibala (Powerful and more powerful). This is
the origin of the rivers in Kerala. (Padma Purana, Jarhbavan was born from the sweat of Brahma.
Chapter 113). (9) The Sanakas. In Bhagavata mention is made that
the Sanakas (Sanaka, Sananda, Sanatana and Sanat-
9) Brahma is not worshipped. Long ago Brahma and
Visnu went to see Siva near Himavan. They saw a shin- kumara) were sons of Brahma.
ing phallus there in front of them. It was of immense (10) In Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva there is a
size. One of them went downwards and the other passage given as the words of Vasistha spoken to Bhrgu,
about the birth of many of the sons of Brahma. "May
upwards to find out the end of it. Both returned without
I tell you a story I have heard long ago about the revela-
reaching the top or the bottom and by penance they
tion of Brahma of himself?
pleased Siva who appeared before them and asked them
what boon they desired. Brahma asked Siva to take Lord Rudra took the form of Varuna and performed a
birth as his son. Siva did not like this and said that no- sacrifice. Many hermits, all the devas, Agni and others,
body would worship Brahma because of his extravagant Vasatk~ra (Exclamation in sacrifice) which took body,
desire (namely, to have Siva as his son). Visnu requested and all yajnangas came to the sacrificial hall. All the
that he should be made a servant at Siva's feet. So expedients, all the glories which are thousands in number
Visnu incarnated as Siva's Sakti (power). That Sakti is took shape and came to the sacrifice. Rgveda arrayed
Parvatl. So Visrrn and Parvati are one and the same in a in garments of heroism came there. All the omens, all
sense. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathapuhalambakarh, Ta- the voices, all the emotions, all the etymologies of pro-
rahga 1 ) .
nouncing Veda Suktas, all the svarabhaktikas, Orhkara
10) The abode of Brahma. It is said in Devi
Bhagavata, (the syllable Orh) the eye of all the Vedic metres and
Skandha 8, that the abode of Brahma is on the top of their theories, all restraints and donations, all Vedas,
Mount Mahameru. There are nine towns there. Mano- Upanisads, accomplishments, Savitri, the past, the near
vati which is in the centre, is the town of Brahma. Due future and distant future, all these came there. The
east of Manovati stands Amaravati, the town of Indra. Lord Siva held everyone of them. He offered his spirit
On the south-east corner there is RajovatI which is owned by his spirit. The sacrifice took many forms and shed
by Agni (fire-god). Due south of Brahmapurl there is radiances. Paramasiva is heaven, is the sky, is the earth,
the town of SamyamanI which is the town of Yama (God is the ether and the husband of the Earth, is the lord
of death) On the south west corner there is the town of of all accomplishments, is noble and the lord of radiance.
Nirrti. It is named Krsnanjana. On the west there is This Lord is lauded by the names Brahma, Siva, Rudra,
the town called Sraddhavatl. It is the abode of God Varuna, Agni, and Prabhavati. Siva is the King of all
Varuna. On the north-west corner there is the town the worlds. Penances, sacrifices, vows emblazed by fast,
called GandhavatI which is the abode of Bhagavan all the directions and gods of directions, Indras, celestial
rectly. They are given below ii groups the offerer of oblation had discharge again. He got it in
(1 ) Marlci, Ahgiras, Atri, Pulastya, Pulaha, and Kratu. the sacrificial ladle and with recitation of spells offered
It is mentioned in the Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter it in the sacrificial fire as if it was ghee. The powerful
65, Stanza 10, that these six grand hermits were born semen contained the three attributes of Sattva, Rajas
from the mind of Brahma. and Tamas. From the attribute of Rajas arose the
(2) Dhata and Vidhata. It is mentioned in Maha- living world which had activity as its purpose. Radiance
bharata Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 51 that these is the quality of Sattva which entered the living and non-
two were good sons born to Brahma. living world. It gives light to everything. It also gives
(3) Rudra. Mention is made in Agni Purana, Chapter the power of discrimination. From the semen offered
20, that Brahma had a roaring son who was named in the fire, three sons with body and the attributes of
Rudra. demi-gods came out. The male who had originated from
(4) Svayarhbhuva Manu. It occurs in Bhagavata the flame called 'Bharjana' became Angiras. The male
Skandha 1 1 that Manu Svayambhuva was the son of
, who originated from the burning coals became Kavi.
Brahma. Over and above these three radiances, other radiances
(5) Kandarpa (Kamadeva Cupid). In Kathasarit- also originated from the sacrificial fire. From the Marlcis
BRAHMA 151 BRAHMA
(rays) of the fire Marlci the father of Kasyapa was born. those who sitin places where they ought not to sit and
From the Kusa-grass spread on the floor of the hall of those who are hard-hearted. Enter into their bodies and
sacrifice, the Bilakhilyas were born. Atri also was and life-breaths. Thus carry
affect their hearts, spleens
born from the Kusa-grass. The noble hermits called out the work of destruction ? You can affect both the
Vaikhanasas, who have grown powerful by penance and good and the bad. But good people should not be killed.
became the seat of all good qualities, were born from So to save them from death, you can use this mantra
the sacrificial ashes. From the stream of fire which are (spell).
the eyes of the sacrificial fire the handsome Asvins "oih, hrarh, hrirh, srhh, sarh, visnusaktaye, namah;
were born. The rest of the Prajapatis were born from bhagavati visnusakti ehi, enaih hara hara: dehe hana
the ears of the fire. From the pores of the skin of fire hana ?paca paca matha matha
!
utsadaya utsa-
:
were born the hermits, from the sweat the 'chandas' daya dure kuru kuru svaha visucike
: tvaih hima-
!
(metre of Vedas) and from might, the mind. For this vantarh gaccha ? jivasarah candramandalam gatasi
reason the Vedic scholars and knowers of the Sruti and svaha."
those who see the superiority of Vedas, say that fire is a Saying these words Brahma disappeared. Karkkati made
combination of all the gods. The trees that feed the fire her body smaller and smaller and finally assumed the
are called Masas (months), the sap of the tree is called shape of a needle. After that she began her work by
Paksa (half of the month i.e. full moon to new moon and entering the body of those who had lost their energy
new moon to full moon), the pith of the tree is called because of illness, in the form of a needle of gout and
night and day and the flames are called Muhurtas caused Cholera, and the body of those who were lean
(auspicious moments). Rudras were born from the and worn and weary, in the form of internal cholera.
blood of fire and the golden coloured gods, the Maitras, Thus assuming two bodies and killing countless people
also were born from the blood of fire. From the smoke she travelled for a long time in the earth and the sky,
of the fire, the Vasus, from the flame of the fire Rudras until she herself felt aversion to her work. When she
and the Adityas of the extreme radiance were born. remembered her original form she loathed the needle-
The planets and stars which stand in their places in form. Karkka{I again went to the vicinity of the Hima-
the sky are the charcoal of the fire. Brahma declared that layas and began to do penance, which lasted for another
fire was Brahma the supreme spirit, eternal and the thousand years. Thus she became pure and by the
giver of all wishes. The sinless Mahadeva, who was in power of thinking, she acquired spiritual knowledge.
the form of Varuna said, "This sacrificial fire is mine, Then she wanted to be saved from the mirage of birth
and I am the sacrificer. So the children born as the first and death, to attain which, she did penance for yet
fruit of this sacrifice are mine. So Bhrgu, Angiras and another thousand years at the end of which, the highly
Kavi are my sons, no doubt. Let everybody who moves pleased Brahma appeared before her and said, "daugh-
along the sky know that these three are my sons, the ter Karkkati, all the darkness is erased from your heart
fruit of my sacrifice." Agni said, "These are born from and you have attained deliverance from delusion. Now
my organs. They had been depending on me for their I will bless you according to your wish. Receive
your
sustenance. So they are my sons." Brahma the teacher original body and walk about in the worlds eating the
of all the worlds and the grandfather of all living beings ignorant, bad beginners, the imprudent, those who sit in
said, "They are my sons. I offered my sperm to the fire, bad places and dwell in bad places."
and these sons were born therefrom. How can they be She became a giantess again, but as she had attained
claimed by anybody else ? Here, I am the utterer of the purity of soul, she engaged herself in deep meditation
spell and the offerer of the sperm. I am the owner of which was free from doubt. The meditation lasted for a
the sperm. Am I not the owner of the fruit ? There is no long time. Finally her mind waved. Then she remem-
contest on the point that the birth of Bhrgu and others is bered about worldly things and felt hunger. She remem-
from the oblation of my sperm." The Gods who heard bered, "Brahma has ordained the wicked as my food.
these arguments bowed their heads before Brahma and So I shall seek them." Thinking thus she went to a jungle
greeting him said, "Lord Brahma, It is not only us that in the vicinity of the Himalayas. That was the dwelling
are born from you, but the entire world of living and place of foresters. In that dark night the King and the
non-living is born from you. So let Agni and Deva in minister of the foresters approached the place where
the shape of Varuna have their wishes." Karkkati sat. Karkkati seeing them thought, "let me
12) Brahma, and the giantess Karkkati. In days of old, a know first if they are good or bad." So she decided to
ferocious giantess named Karkkafi lived on the northern ask them some questions.
side of the Himalayas. Because of the hugeness of her She asked them in a voice like thunder. "Who are you ?
body and the scarcity of food she became famished. She Are you enlightened sages or ignorant fools ? say quickly."
began to do penance for the alleviation of her hunger The king of the foresters hearing this replied in a cynical
and thirst. She stood on one leg in the Himalaya Moun- "You insignificant ? What is your form ?
way. ghost
tain, fixing her eyes on the sun in the day and on the Where do you sit ? Let us your powerless body. Who
see
Moon in the night, and the severe penance continued is there to fear at your sound which is like the humming
for a thousand years. Then Brahma appeared before her of a she-beetle ?"
and told her that she could ask for any boon. She said Hearing this reply Karkkati showed her tusks and lau-
"I wish to become a Suci (Needle) as hard as iron, hav- ghed loud, to spread light, and to terrify them. They
ing the form of disease. This is the boon I pray for, heard the loud roaring sound of her laugh and saw her
Brahma". Brahma blessed her and said, "Let it be so, huge form in the light. But those mighty heroes were
my daughter, you shall be a sucika (needle) with the not at all shaken by the sound they heard or the sight
prefix 'V' that is Visucika (Spasmodic cholera) You they witnessed. The Minister looked at her and said,
can eat those who eat stale food, those who are wicked, "Hei, Giantess ? These delusions of yours will have no
BRAHMA 152 BRAHMA
effecton us. Even if a number of mosquitoes like you 9 ) As the entire visible world cannot be separated from
come before us, they will be only dry leaves before wind. the Supreme Spirit nothing is other than the Impersonal
You are acting like this merely for food. So what is Supreme Spirit.
your need ? Tell us, we will satisfy you". 10) Thedifferentiations of the various worlds are mere
Hearing the words of the minister Karkkati knew that appearances of the Supreme Spirit and so dualism is of the
her might was useless before such valiant men. She same figure.
thought them to be sages. So she said "Hey mighty The King drew Karkkati nearer to the Impersonal
heroes. Who are you ? Tell me the truth". The minister Supreme Spirit. He advised
her not to commit slaughter.
said: "This the King of foresters and I am his minister. She accepted the advice. The King asked her to come
We came for a night-walk to find out and punish wicked to his palace assuming the form of a beautiful woman.
people like you." She asked, what could he oiler to a giantess as food.
The them and said: "I am about to
giantess appreciated The King said: "You good woman, we shall find out a
put some questions to you. If you give me suitable ans- way for that. You change yourself to a beautiful woman
wers you will be saved." The King agreed. The ques- wearing golden ornaments and stay in my palace for a
tions put by her are given below in the order they were while. I shall arrange to gather sinners, robbers and
asked : such other wicked people who are to be given capital
1) Inside what atom which is unit and multiple at the punishment, in thousands from various places, and shall
same time, do the lakhs of universes originate and vanish give them to you. You can take your original form and
as bubbles in a sea ? take them all to the peaks of the Himalaya and feed on
2) What does shine as ether and non-ether ? them.
3) What is it that is something and nothing ? Gluttonous people like to eat in solitude. After having
4) What is it that is going and not going at the same eaten sumptuously, take some sleep, and a little rest in
time ? meditation. When you wake up you come again and
5) What is it that has taken form from voidness ? take away people dtstined to be killed. The slaughter
6) What is it that is moving and at the same time station- done for the sake of righteousness is not a sin. It is said
ary as a rock ? to be equal to mercy. When your desire for meditation
7) Who
draws pictures in clear sky? is over you must come to me. If an attachment of love
8) In what seed do the worlds exist as a big tree in its is formed even with bad persons it is difficult to break
seed ? the love."
9) From what substance can the living and non-living Karkkati obeyed the King. They all reached the palace.
things in the worlds, not be separated as the foam and Within six days three thousand wicked persons, who
waves cannot be separated from the ocean ? were sentenced to death, were brought before the King,
10) What substance is dualism not separate from from his own country and the various dependent coun-
(others) as fluidity from water? tries, and were given to Karkkati. In the night she took
The reply given by the minister to each question is given her original form, gathered all the wicked people, who
below in the order of the questions. deserved killing and bidding good bye to the King,
1
) Hey, Giantess All the questions you have put be-
: went to the Peaks of the Himalayas, (jnanavasistha).
fore us encased in figurative words discernible only to 13) Brahma and Haindavas. At the end of the day of
the Vedic sages, are concerned with the supreme Being. Brahma there was the great flood, and destroying all the
The atom is the supreme Spirit which is beyond all heavens, Brahma went to sleep. He woke up next morn-
knowledge of the mind and the senses. As it is without ing and after the usual morning ablutions, prepared for
organs of action it is as unmanifested as the sky. And creation. He looked around at the sky, and saw some
inside that supreme atom which could be felt only by the heavens still engaged in usual activities. He was amazed
mind, crores and crores of bubbles of universes originate at this unusual occurrence. Ten Brahmas and the count-
and vanish due to frailty. less devas (gods) under them were doing their routine
2 )
The impersonal Supreme
Being, having no substance, work. Brahma stared at the worlds for a long time think-
pervades everything. This Supreme Being, Brahman, ing "How is it". Then he by his divine power caused one
is pure knowledge (Jnanasvarupa). It is the
sky and the of the suns, working in a heaven, to come to him, and
non-sky. asked him. "Who are you, shining one? How have these
3) As it is indescribable the Impersonal Supreme Spirit worlds come into existence ?"
is nothing, but as it is a reality it is
something. The Sun said with humility. "Your sons Marici and
4) As it pervades everything accessible, the Impersonal others erected a beautiful shed called Suvarnatatam,
Supreme Spirit has the quality of motion. But as it has in a corner of Jariibudvipa in the valley below Kailasa.
no emotions and as there exists no space beyond, it is A Brahmana named Indu arose from that hall.
motionless. The Brahmana who was a Vedic scholar, righteous
5) As it is inaccessible to others the Supreme Spirit is and peaceful, led the life of a house-holder with his
having no existence, but as it is the essence of everything wife for a long time. But they were childless. So they
that is good, it has existence. went to Kailasa and did penance to get children. They
6) The Supreme Spirit is the radiance of motion or entered a natural arbour which was quite silent and began
activity and as there is nothing else to be found out, that severe penance. Siva appeared and said that they
is, as it doesn't know anything else it is as rigid as a would get children.
rock. In course of time, ten sons were born to them. After
7 ) In the clear sky the Supreme Spirit draws the pictures a long time, when the sons had reached manhood the
of the universe. old parents died. The sons felt very sorry. They regarded
8) Exists in the Supreme Atom. life as short and full of woe and misery. So they went for
BRAHMA 153 BRAHMA
penance, as they had no relatives left to care for them. substitute creation. In the first Kalpa when a Brahma
They abstained from all the pleasures of the world and is born from the lotus, certain creations are made and
reached Kailasa. They began to meditate upon the the things thus originated do not undergo destruction in
shortness of life. "What is there which is noble in this the evening or at the end of the Kalpa. They are the
world ? Is there anything except woe and misery ? How sarga or creation. On
that day and every day of the life
simple is the desire of man for greatness ? One thinks of Brahma they help Brahma in the work of creation.
himself prosperous if he becomes a house-holder. The In a sense they could be called Prajapatis (the lords of
head of the village is more prosperous than a house- emanation). But as most of them have not left sons,
holder. The King of a dependent state is more powerful and known by
for other reasons also, they are not well
than the head of a village. An independent king is far that name. Only the persons mentioned here have as
more prosperous than a dependent King. When we long a life as that of Brahma. The Sanakas, Karddama,
think of the state of an emperor how simple is an inde- Marlci, Atri, Aiigiras, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu, Bhrgu,
pendent king When compared with Indra, the Lord
!
Vasistha, Daksa, Narada, Dharma, Adharma, Nirrti,
of the three worlds what is an emperor after all ? But SarasvatT, Kama, Atharva, the Manes, Agni, Sthanu,
there is nothing glorious in the state of Indra also as it and Svayarhbhuva these do not end at the end of a
:
ends in a Brahmamuhurtta (a period in the life of Brahma's day (or Kalpa) and will be dissolved only when
Brahma). So what is there substantial and eternal? Brahma is dissolved. A Brahma creates in his first morn-
"Brahma alone is eternal and indestructible." said the ing not only persons from Sanaka to Svayambhuva, but
eldest brother. "Concentrate your mind and say to your- also creations which have a history only up to the end
'I am the
self, supreme Being Brahma seated on a lotus', of that day, such as the lokas (worlds) of Bhuloka,
and meditate upon it and pray for it and knowledge of Bhuvarloka and Svarloka, and minerals, plants, animals,
Brahma will be conferred upon you. "They understood humanity etc. Sarga or creation is called Prakrta Srsti
this and thus the ten brothers became Brahmas. There
(natural creation). Pratisarga or substitute creation
are ten heavens of them. They are ten worlds in the called Aprakrta Srsti or unnatural creation. At the
is
sky of mind. I am the sun who creates day and night in end of the Kalpa, Samvarttakagni (Fire which destroys
one of them," saying thus the Sun went away. Brahma the universe) and Samvarttaka varsa (Rain which des-
commenced his activity. (Jnanavasistha). troys the universe) will occur and all the unnatural crea-
14) The age of Brahma. Forty- three crores twenty lacs tions will be destroyed. In all the morning, following
of human years is one four-yuga period called 'Deva- the first morning of a Brahma substitute creation takes
caturyuga' (a period of four yugas of the devas or gods ) . place, and they are destroyed at the end of each Kalpa
One thousand deva caturyugas will make one Mahayuga by Sarhvarttakagni and Sarhvarttakavarsa. (Bhaga-
(great yuga) A Mahayuga is a day time of Brahma. vata).
During the period of one Mahayuga, that is, during 16) Other information.
one day of Brahma, fourteen Manus, one after another, 1
I
) Brahma
was once born under the name Candra
help Brahma in doing the work of creation. This is the from the womb of Anasuya the wife of hermit Atri.
time of the seventh Manu in the
present day time (See Anasuya).
(Kalpa)of the present Brahma. The period of six Manus ( 2)
From the passion of lust of Brahma, a daughter
are over in the present day time of the present Brahma. named Sarasvati was born and Brahma married her.
Vaivasvata is the present Manu. Brahma wakes up in (See Sarasvati).
the morning the beginning of a
Kalpa. Those which (3) Itis seen in Bhagavata, Skandha 11, that the caste
underwent destruction in the night, are created again
in the morning. As Brahma wakes
system came out from the mouth of Brahma.
up daily in the morn- the name Indrajit (he who
(4) It was Brahma who gave
ing, what are the things created before, which do not
overcame Indra) to Meghanada the son of Ravana
undergo destruction ? At that time there will remain, because he had defeated Indra. (Uttara Ramayana).
without destruction, six or twentyfour tattvas (princi-
which are natural (5) When
the life time of Sri Rama was about to come
ples ) creations. These twenty-four
to an end, Brahma sent Kala (time the God of death )
principles are not the creation of Brahma. He who is
in disguise to the presence of Sri Rama. (See Rama).
beyond names, He who created Brahma in the lotus
of Tripura, Brahma was the chario-
flower, created them. Brahma who was originated in the (6) In the burning
lotus which grew from the nave of teer of Siva. (See Tripurarh).
Narayana performs
the work of creation guided by these Once Brahma performed sacrifice on the head of
twentyfour princi- ( 7)
ples. The work of creation performed by Brahma is Gayasura (a giant). (See Gayatlrtha).
called Pratisarga (substitute creation). Everything (8) Once Brahma went to the hermitage of Vyasa, and
Brahma created in the day time will be destroyed in the advised him to compose Bharata and to propagate it in
evening. After a day time is over there is the night time the world. (M.B.Adi Parva, Chapter 55).
and sleep for Brahma. The life of Brahma is hundred
( 9)
It was Brahma who gave the name poetry to the
years, that is thirty-six thousand Brahma days and
and Brahma work of Vyasa and employed Ganapati as the scribe of
nights. At the expiry of this period the life Stanza 61 ).
of Brahma will come to an end, and will dissolve in Vyasa. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 1,
At the sacrifice of Varuna, Brahma begot Bhrgu
Narayana. Thus crores and crores of Brahmas have (10)
appeared and passed away and in future also crores the hermit from the sacrificial fire. (M.B. Chapter 5,
will appear and pass Stanza 8).
away. (Bhagavata).
15) The creations and substitute creations of Brahma. The (11) Daksa was
born from the right thumb of Brahma
creations performed by Brahma are of two kinds. The and from his left thumb was born the wife of Daksa.
Stanza 10).
first is
Sarga or creation and the second is Pratisarga or (M. B. Adi parva, Chapter 66,
BRAHMA 154 BRAHMA
( 12)Dharmadeva incarnated from the right breast of ( Death came into being from the body of Brahma.
35)
Brahma. (M.B. Adi parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 3). (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 53, Stanza 17).
( 13) The hermit Bhrgu broke open the heart of Brahma (36) Death was given the boon of destruction of the living
and incarnated from there. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter beings. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 53, stanza 21).
66, stanza 41 ). (37) Once Brahma took the devas (gods) to the presence
( HjSukra turns all the worlds
round at the instruction of Siva because they had fled away fearing Vrttrasura.
of Brahma. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 42). (M.B. Drona larva Chapter 94, Stanza 53).
( 15) Brahma gave (38) Brahma prophesied that Arjuna would come out
boons to two asuras (demons) Sunda
and Upasunda. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 208, Stanza victorious in the fight between Karna and Arjuna.
17). (M.B. Karna 1'arva, Chapter 87, Stanza 69).
(16)Visvakarma created Tilottama according to the (39) Brahma presented the hide of a deer to Subrah-
Brahma gave her a boon. (M.B.
instruction of Brahma. manya, who was going to the battle field. (M.B. Salya
Adi Parva, Chapter 211, Stanza 23). Parva, Chapter 46, stanza 52).
(17) When Agni suffered from indigestion, Brahma (40) Brahma granted a boon to Ca.rva.ka. (See
instructed that the forest Khandava should be burnt Carvaka).
to cure him. (See Agni). (41 ) Brahma gave Rudra a sword, (M.B. Santi Parva,
(18) Brahma made the bow called Gandiva. (M.B. Chapter 166, Stanza 45).
Adi Parva, Chapter 224, Stanza 19). (42) Brahma pacified Siva who got angry, at the sacri-
(
1
9) At the end of thousand yugas Brahma performs a fice of Daksa. (M.B. Santi parva, Chapter 283, Stanza
grand sacrifice near the holy place Bindusaras on the 45).
top of the mountain Hiranyasrnga. (M.B. Sabha Parva, (43) Once Brahma took the form of a swan and exhorted
Chapter 3, Stanza 15). the Sadhyaganas. (M.B. Sand parva, Chapter 229).
(20) Brahma has a divine council. A complete descrip- (44) Once there arose a fight between Mahavisnu and
tion is given of this council in Mahabharata, Sabha Siva and Brahma pacified both of them. (M.B. Santi
Parva, Chapter 1 1 .
Parva, Chapter 342, Stanza 124).
(21) Brahma cursed Hiranyakasipu and gave him a (45) Once Brahma went to the mount Vaijayanta and
boon that he would not be killed by any sort of weapons. talked to Siva about the glory of Mahavisnu. (M.B.
(M.B. Sabha parva, Chapter 38, Daksinatya Pa{ha). Sand Parva, Chapter 350 Daksinatya Padia).
( 22) Brahma wears a divine conch for the sake of Indra. (46) Once Brahma talked about the nobility of Brahma-
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 53, Stanza 14). nas. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 35, Daksinatya
( 23)
Brahma had erected a Yupa (a post to which sacri- Patha).
ficial animals are tied) near Brahma-saras in Dharma- ( 47)
Brahma gave the devas (gods ) the earth as a gift
ranya. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 34, Stanza 86). for performing sacrifice. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chap-
( 24) Once
Brahma performed a sacrifice in Prayaga ter 66).
(Allahabad). (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 87, Stanza (48) Once Brahma made a speech to Indra about the
17). importance of giving cow as gift. (M.B. Anusasana
(25)Brahma sang a hymn once for the holy place of Parva, Chapter 74, Stanza 2).
Puskara tirtha (M.B. Vanaparva, Chapter 82, Stanza (49) Brahma granted a boon to Surabhi. (M.B. Anu-
18). sasana Parva, Chapter 83, Stanza 36).
(26) It was according to the instruction of Brahma that (50) Brahma originated the Prajapads by offering his
the devas went to Dadhica and requested for his bone. sperm into the sacrificial fire at the sacrifice of Varuna.
(M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 100, Stanza 8). (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 85, Stanza 99).
(27) Brahma once performed a sacrifice called 'Istikrta' (51 ) Once Brahma gave the devas (gods), Rsis (hermits)
at Kuruksetra. This sacrifice took one thousand years and the Nagas (serpents) the ekaksaramantra (the one-
for its completion. (M.B.Vana Parva, Chapter 120, syllable-spell) 'OM'. (M.B. Asvamedha Parva, Chap-
Stanza 1). ter 26, Stanza 8)
(28) The devas (gods)
got angry because Brahma lifted (52) In almost all the Puranas Brahma is called 'Catur-
the earth taking the shape of a hog. But Brahma pacified mukha' (having four faces) and to substantiate this the
them. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 142, stanza 45). following story is given in the Matsyapurana. Brahma
(29) Once Brahma created a city, called Hiranyapura, created Satarupa with half the portion of his body, and
for the asuras (demons) named the Kalakeyas and told accepted that bright and beautiful woman as his wife.
them that it would be destroyed by human hands. (M.B. He could not bear his beautiful wife to be away from
Vana Parva, Chapter 173, Stanza 11). his sight even for a moment. So much had he become
(30) Brahma was born from the lotus in the nave of attached to her.
Visnu. (M.B. Vana parva, Chapter 203, Stanza 10). One day Satarupa was walking round Brahma. The
(31) Brahma granted a boon to a King named Dhundhu. daughters born from his mind also were seated close by.
(See Dhundhu). So he could not turn round and round and look at his
(32) Brahma was the father of Pulastya and the grand- wife as she was moving. To solve this problem, in place
father of Ravana. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 274, of one face, there arose four faces.
Stanza 11). Once Satarupa was walking in the air. To see her at
(
Once Brahma instructed the devas to take birth as
33) that time there arose a fifth head on the top of his matted
monkeys. (M.B. Vana parva, Chapter 376, Stanza 6). hair. It is this face that was plucked off by Siva.
(34) Once Brahma got angry thinking how to destroy (53) Various stories occur in the puranas regarding
how
the living creatures which were increasing prolifically. Siva plucked off the fifth head of Brahma. They are
(M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 52, Stanza 46). given below,
BRAHMA 155 BRAHMACARYA
'I) Birth. Bfahmadatta was born in the family of other two were born as Pundanka and Subalaka, sons of
Brhatksatra who was a scion of the Solar dynasty. the two ministers. Brahmadatta was anointed as King of
BRAHMADATTA i 157 BRAHMADATTA III
Pancala in the great city of Kampilya. The King mighty hero, a learned man, a great hermit and who
loved his father. He was mighty and powerful. He was could understand the language of all living creatures.
regular in performing sacrifices and giving offerings to Brahma granted him boon and was
thus Brahmadatta
the manes. He had the attainment of harmony with born to Anuha. It was beforeBrahmadatta that
this
the supreme spirit. He understood the thought and the Brahmana recited his verse and it was that King
speech of birds and animals. He married Sannati, the who swooned and fell down.
daughter of Sudeva (Devala); she was in her former The two ministers were Subalaka the son of Babhravya
birth the cow of Garga.
who was the author of the Kamasastra and Pundarika
Once as the King was walking in the garden with his the son of Pancala who propagated the science of
wife, he saw two ants. The minute creatures, who medicine. They also remembered about their former
were husband and wife were engaged in a petty quar- births and also fell down unconscious. When they
rel. The male one, with loving words,
pacified the recovered the King Brahmadatta and the minister
female one, who instantly came close to her husband
Subala and Pundarika bemoaned the loss of powers
and they became happy. The King felt ama/ed at this
conversation of the ants, and he laughed. Because of they had attained before by devotion, meditation,
the attainments of his previous lives, he had the power
penance and sacrifice. They cried, "Fate has made us
desirous of the objects of our senses and we have lost our
to understand the language of animals, birds, etc.
harmony with the Supreme Spirit." They repeated the
Seeing the King laughing without any reason the queen
Sannati asked him why he laughed. She said that cry again and again and they spoke about the blessings
obtained by offering oblation to their manes. Brahma-
there was no reason whatsoever for the king to laugh
datta gave the old Brahmana plenty of wealth and
just then. The King replied, "Oh, beautiful one just !
several villages and sent him satisfied. Then he
fully
now there was a quarrel between a female and a male anointed his capable and fully qualified son Visvaksena
ant. I heard it, That is why I laughed. There is no
as King and with his retinue retired to Manasa-saras
other reason." The queen did not believe the King.
for penance.
She thought that the King had been scoffing her. She
asked him how he came to understand the language 3) A when he was King. When Brahma-
bird as his wife
of such creatures. The King could not answer her datta was King of Karhpilyapura a bird named
the
question. He fasted for seven days. On the seventh Tapanlya become his friend. Her head was purple
coloured and body black. By and by this bird became
day Brahma appeared before him and told him, "The
his wife. A daughter named Sarvasena. was born to
King will know everything from the words of a
Brahmadatta by his bird-wife. The King had sons by
Brahmin, whom he would meet when he goes to walk
in the streets." other wives. Tapanlya would wash her child and place
Brahmadatta returned to the palace and spent the her in the cradle early in the morning and then
night there. Next morning he started with his wife and go to the forest and fly about in the air. She would
When return in the evening and tell the King news all over
ministers, for a walk. they left the palace they
saw an old Brahmin coming towards them. Seeing the the world. It went on like this for a long time.
sons, what is this ? You are going away leaving your angry and cursed them and they became hump-backed.
poor and aged father. Is that dutiful? The sons replied, The King was very sorry. He presented his hundred
"We will tell you a way to earn wealth. You recite to hunch-backed daughters to King Brahmadatta, who,
the King, to-morrow
morning this verse, which we by his divine power straightened their backs. When
will teach you now. You will
get plenty of wealth." they regained their former form they became the wives
The boys taught their father this verse and then they of Brahmadatta. This story occurs in Valmlki Rama-
went to the forest. Their father, the old Brahmin, came yana, Balakanda, Sargas 32 & 33.
to the gate of the palace at
Kariipilya. The King was BRAHMADATTA III. Mention is made in Mahabharata;
Brahmadatta. Bhavisya Parva, Chapter 104, about another Brahma-
There is another story how Brahmadatta became the datta. He was the King of Salva. Though he had two
King of this place. Long ago Anuha, the King of Pancala wives he had no children. Finally by the grace of
did penance before Brahma, who appeared before the Siva two children ware born to thsoi. They were called
King and asked him what he desired. The King made Harhsa and Dlbhaka. (For further information see
his request that he might have a son who should be a Dibhaka).
BRAHMADATTA IV 158 BRAHMAlVpA
BRAHMADATTA A king who ruled over the coun-
IV. BRAHMADUMBARA. A holy place in Kuruksetra. In
try of Kasi. Onenight he saw two swans flying in the Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Stanza 71, it
air. They were of golden colour. There were a num- is said that this place is auspicious to Brahma.
ber of swans around them. They seemed like two BRAHMAHATYA. Killing a Brahmana is called Brahma-
lightnings in the midst of white clouds. Brahmadatta hatya. In ancient India killing a Brahmin was consi-
wished to see them again. His desire increased to such dered to be a great sin. He, who committed this sin
an extent that he had desire for nothing else. He had to build a hut in the forest and live there for a
consulted his ministers and made a lake. Every crea- period of twelve years, or make an alms-pot called
ture which seemed beautiful to him was brought to 'Sivasirodhvaja' and wander about begging alms, to
that place. Hearing this those two swans also came purify his soul, or else to attempt to jump into a
there. By and by he tamed them and asked them how blazing fire thrice with bowed head, or perform one
they got the golden colour. The swans said thus : of the three sacrifices Asvamedha, Svarjit or Gosava.
"Oh King! you might have heard of the famous moun- If none of these was possible, he had to give all the
tain Mandara, which is the field of games of the Devas wealth he had to Brahmins well-versed in Vedas, as
( gods)
.At the time of the churning of the milk sea gift. It is mentioned in Agnipurana, Chapter 169, that
when this mountain was used as churn-drill, Amrtarh if any of the vows mentioned above was performed he
(celestial nectar of immortality) touched this moun- would be absolved from the sin of Brahmahatya.
tain. So the flowers, fruits and roots in the vicinity of BRAHMAJIT. A son of Kalanemi. (Brahmanda Purana
this mountain got the power of removing death, wrin- 35:38).
kles etc. Candracuda also will come to this mountain BRAHMAMEDHYA. A river, famous in the Puranas.
occasionally to play on the top of it and so it became Mention is made about this river in Mahabharata
more glorious than the mount Kailasa. One day Bhlsmaparva, Chapter 9, Stanza 32.
while Mahadeva was playing in those gardens he had BRAHMAMUHURTA. The
period of forty-eight minutes
to leave on an urgent matter concerning Gods. So he before the sunrise is called Brahmamuhurta. The
left Parvati there and went away. Devi began to walk deity of this period is Brahma. In Agni Purana, Chap-
about in those gardens with pangs of separation. ter 155, it is instructed that one should wake up at
Spring season came. The Ganas (servants of Siva) and this period and engage in prayer and meditation.
the maids of Parvati attended on her. One day Mani- BRAHMANA. (BRAHMIN).
puspesvara, a Gana, hankered after Candralekha, (1) Origin. Brahmanas, Ksatriyas, Vaisyas, and Sudras
daughter of Jaya. She had been engaged in fanning are the caturvarnas or the four castes. 1'he Puranas say
Parvati. Both were young and their figures suited each that the four castes originated from different parts of
other. Candralekha reciprocated his love. Under- the body of Brahma. See Manusmrti, Chapter 1,
standing this Pingesvara and Guhesvara, two ganas Stanza 87
looked at each other and smiled. Seeing this Devi "Sarvasyasya tu sargasya
looked round with anger to see what caused them to Guptyartharh sa mahadyutih
smile. They squinted their eyes and showed Manipus- Mukhabahurupajjanam
pe'vara and Candralekha to Devi. Because of separation Prthakkarmanyakalpayat.
she had been much worried, weary and sad. So all (With a view to sustain the world, Brahma ordered acti-
these affairs made her angry. She said "It is good
: vities, for the four castes
(Brahmana Ksatriya, Vaisya,
that you behave like this when I am in this plight ! and SQdra) who were born frcm his face, arms, thighs
The two are making love. Seeing that, you are laughing. and feet). From this statement it is seen that the Brah-
May these two dotards be born on the earth and be- manas were born from the face, Ksatriyas from the
come husband and wife there. Let you two who arms, Vaisyas from the thighs and Sudras from the feet
laughed before me without humility also be born on of Brahma.
the earth, first as poor Brahmanas, and then as 2) The activities of a Brahmana. The duties of a Brahmana
Brahmaraksas (demon friends), outcasts, robbers, are, performing sacrifice, and encouraging others to
dogs with tails cut off and finally as various kind of perform learning Vedas and teaching Vedas,
sacrifice,
birds." Thus she cursed the four of ganas. Then a giving and getting remuneration. A Brahmana has
gifts
gana named Dhiirjata said to Parvati "Devi, this is
: two births in one life. Till the time of investiture with
unfortunate. They have not commited any severe the sacred string is one birth and from that period on-
crime." Devi got angry at him and cursed him too: wards is the second birth. So a Brahmana is called
"May you also be born on the earth as a human be- 'dvija' or twice-born.
ing." After this Jaya the loved maid of Parvati reques- The Brahmanas were allowed to do the works of agri-
ted her for absolution from curse, for all. The Devi culture, keeping cows, trade and commerce and Kuslda
said that all of them would get absolution at the place (money-lending). Living on the interest of money
of penance of Brahma and other gods and would re- giving out as loan is Kuslda. But they should not trade
turn here. Of these, Candralekha and her husband and on products from cow, jaggery, salt, lac and flesh.
Dharjata would be happy on the earth. The two The suffix 'Sarma' should be added to the name of
others would lead a miserable life on the earth." Brahmana. A Brahmana can have four wives.
(Kathasaritsagara, Padmavatlla'ubaka, Taranga 1). BRAHMA'yA( M) See Veda. .
BRAHMADEVA. A warrior who fought on the side of BRAHMAlilpA. The word Brahmanda means the anda
the Pandavas against the Kauravas in the battle of of Brahma (anda-egg), the Supreme Being which is
Mahabharata. His duty was to protect the army in the root of the origin of the universe. At a time long
the rear. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 196, ago, which is beyond reckoning, there was nothing but
Stanza 25) . an egg. This egg was split into two and from it a male
BRAHMAl^DAPURAlSA 159 BRAHMATlRTHA
child with the radiance of innumerable suns came out. BRAHMAPURl. The abode of Brahma. Brahmapuri is
This wonderful child was helpless. After his birth he on the summit of Mahameru, with an area of fourteen
cried for a while, because of hunger and thirst. He thousand yojanas (leagues) Around this city, at the
.
got no help. There was nobody to feed it. So this four sides, (East etc.) and at the four corners (South-
wonderful child looked up and lay there. This help- East etc.) there are eight towns, very big and beautiful,
less child was called 'Viratpurusa' (the next emanation kept by eight protectors such as Indra and others. The
from Brahma) by those versed in the Puranas. The river Gaiiga which springs from the feet of Mahavisnu
boy was so called because he was the most material wets the whole of Candramandala (Lunar region),
of materiality. But he was an atom of atoms and the falls down on the Brahmapuri, and dividing itself into
firstfiguration of God. From each pore of the skin of four rivers called Slta, Alakananda, Caksus and Bhadra
the great virat, who was the base of all the worlds a flows in four directions. The river Slta flows through
universe came into being. Thus all the countless uni- the top of the mountains and passing through the
verses were born. Each universe has its own trinity of mountain in the east called Bhadrasva, falls in the
Brahma, Visnu, Siva and devas (the bright ones), the Eastern Ocean. The river Alakananda flows to the
protectors of the eight zones. One universe comprises south and reaches Bharata. Then it divides into seven
fourteen worlds or realms, from Patala to ihe Brahma- rivers which unite in the ocean. The river Caksus pas-
loka (from the nether world to the upper world or ses through the mountains in the west and enters the
the realm of Brahma) Countless such universes exist.
.
country called Ketumalavarsa and then flows into the
Over and above all these universes there is Vaikuntha, ocean. The river Bhadra passes through all the moun-
and above Vaikuntha there is another world with an tains in the north and flows through the north
country
area of fifty crore yojanas (leagues), called 'Goloka' (the of the Kurusa and falls in the North Ocean. The moun-
world of cow). Only the two worlds Vaikuntha and tain of Malyavan in the west and the mountain of
the Goloka are eternal. Bhuloka ( the earth) consists Gandhamadana in the east are as long as the moun-
of seven islands and sixty-four peninsulas. There are tain of Nilagiri in the north and the mountain of
seven worlds above and seven worlds below. The seven Nisadha in the south. Mount Meru shaped like an ear-
upper worlds are Bhuloka, Bhuvarloka, Svarloka, Jana- ring stands in the middle of these four mountains.
loka, Tapoloka. Sa'tyaloka and Brahmaloka. Thus a (Visnu Purana, Amsa 2, Chapter 21) .
universe consists of fourteen worlds. This is the idea BRAHMA&ALA. A holy place. It is mentioned in Maha-
given by the Puranas about Brahmanda. (Devi Bhaga- bharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 87, Stanza 23, that the
vata, Skandhas 9) . moment one visits this holy Bath in the river Ganges,
Mention is made, in the Visnu Purana, Amsa 2, one would attain heaven.
Chapter 7, about the construction of Brahmanda. BRAHMASARAS. A holy place in Dharmaranya. If a
This Brahmanda, like the seed of the Kapittha tree man fasts one night, he would
in this holy place for
(Vitar the wdod-apple) is covered under, above and
,
reach the world of Brahma. In this holy place there is
all around by andakafaha (egg-shell) The anda (egg)
. a peg driven down by Brahma himself. One who walks
is covered by water ten times the egg in volume. This round this peg will attain the fruits of performing a
water-shell is covered by a shell of fire. Around the Vajapeya yajna (a drinking sacrifice) . There is another
shell of fire there is the shell of air and the air-shell holy bath of the name Brahmasaras in Gaya. ( M. B.
iscovered with ether. Around the shell of ether there Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Stanza 89) .
is the shell of Egoism of darkness. Over the shell of BRAHMASAVAR^I. Tenth Manu. (See Manvan-
Egoism there is the shell of glory and the shell of tara).
glory is covered by Prakrti, the Divine Nature. It is BRAHMASIRAS. See Brahmastra.
immeasurable. Prakrti contains numberless Brah- BRAHMASTHANA. A holy place. It is mentioned in
mandas. As oil exists in sesame, God pervades the whole Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Sianza 103,
universe. This is the connection between Prakrti and that a person who visits this holy place will get the
Purusa. (The Nature and the Supreme Spirit). fruits of performing Asvamedha yaga. (Horse sacri-
BRAHMA&IPPATTU. (Pattu = song). A performance Chapter 138, Stanza 9, that Agastya gave this weapon
connected with the temples of Kerala. to Agnivesa, who gave it to Drona and Drona gave it to
Arjuna and instructed him about the use of it as
BRAHMANJALI. When a disciple stands before his
follows :
teacher he should have both his arms folded. Folding
"You should never shoot this arrow at man. If it is
both arms in this way is called Brahmanjali. ( Manu- used against mean people worlds would be
the three
smrti, Chapter 2) .
"The place between the two rivers SarasvatI and Drsad- pect for Dharmaputra. It is stated in the Mahabharata,
vati is called Brahmavartta, which was made Vana Parva, Chapter 52, that Brhadasva went to the
by the
devas." forest Kamyaka with Dharmaputra. Brhadasva narra-
BRAHMAVEDHYA. A river, famous in the Puranas. ted the story 'Nalopakhyana' to Dharmaputra in
Mention is made about this river in Mahabharata, order to divert his mind from the thought of the loss
Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 30. of his kingdom. When he had finished the story he
taught Dharmaputra, the two important spells, Aksa-
BRAHMAYAJNA. A special sacrifice to be performed
hrdaya and Asvasiras.
by a Brahmin only. The rules and rituals of the sacri-
fice are given below :
BRHADASVA II. A king of the Iksvaku dynasty. His
The Brahmana should rinse his mouth three times. was Sravasta. The King Kuvalayasva was the
father
Then he should wipe his mouth twice and face once. son ofBrhadava. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 122,
Then he should take water in his hand and sprinkle Stanza 7) .
it on his hands and legs, and then sprinkle it on his BRHADATMA. A king of the Ariga dynasty. (Agni
head, eyes, nose, ears, chest and forehead. After that Purana, Chapter 2 78).
uttering the name of the place, date, time, star etc. he BRHADBALA I. A king in ancient India. (M.B. Adi
should say to himself, "I am beginning to perform Parva, Chapter 1,Stanza 237) .
Brahmayajna." For this he should have to place two BRHADBALA II. Son of Suba, a King of Gandhara.
darbhas (grass Poa cynosuroides) in his right hand, He was the Pan call Svayamvara (marriage
present at
three in his left hand, one on the seat, one each on his
with his brothers Sakuni and Vrsaka.
of Pancali)
Brahma-string (sacred string worn by brahmins), hair (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 185, Stanza 5).
and legs, and then think of the time, place, etc. and say
to himself, "I am about to
BRHADBALA III. A king of the country known as
perform Brahmayajna to Kosala. During his conquest of the East, Bhimasena
please the gods known in the Suktas ( hymns in the defeated this King. This powerful King of Kosala had
Vedas) for the absolution of all my sins." Then recite
given fourteen thousand horses for the llajasuya ( im-
Gayatri (spell) thrice. Then recite the following Vedic
mantras or spells, in the order given Mantras beginn- perial inauguration) of Yudhisthira. He fought with
:
BRHADDHLA I A great King of Kosala. He gave Yadu, Pratyagra, Bala, Matsyakfda and Vira were the
fourteen thousand best horses for the Rajasuya ( impe- brothers of Brhadratha. A son named KuSagra was
rial inauguration) sacrifice performed by Yudhisthira born to Brhadratha. (Agni Purana, Chapter 275) .
as present. In the battle of Mahabharata, Brhaddhala BRHADRATHA IV. Son of Uparicara, the king of
sided with the Kauravas and fought against the Pancla- Cedi. Uparicara made his son Brhadratha, ling of
vas and was killed in the battle by Abhimanyu. (M.B. Magadha. In course of time he became a powerful
Drona Parva, 46; 24; Bhagavata, Skandha 9). emperor. This Brhadratha was a mighty warrior-king
BRHADDHALA II. The son of Subala, the king of with an army of three aksauhims (an aksauhini is a
Gandhara Brhaddhala attended the Pancali Svayam- complete army consisting of 21870 horses and 109350
vara (marriage of Pan call) with his brother Sakuni infantry). Though he had married two daughters of
and Vrsnka. the King of Kasi he was childless. The sorrowful king
BRHADDHALA III. A king of the Yadavas. He was went with his wives to a hermit named Candakausika
the son of Devabhaga, the brother of Vasudeva. and pleased him by giving him precious stones. The
(Bhagavata, Skandha 9). King told the hermit about his sorrow due to lack of
BRHADDHALADHVAJA. A hermit who was a leper. It children. The hermit gave them a mango fruit and
is stated in of Bhavisya Purana that this
Brahma Parva said that the King should enthrone the son who would
hermit recovered from leprosy by Sun-worship. be born by eating the mango, and return to the forest
BRHADDHVAJA. A Raksasa (giant). This giant wan- for penance. The hermit gave eight boons for the son
dered about stealing the wealth and women of others. who was to be born.
One day Brhaddhvaja happened to meet with Kegini, The King and his wives to the palace and
returned
the beautiful wife of king Bhimakesa. The lustful giant divided the mango fruit and both of his wives
into two
was about to take her away, when she told him ate the fruit and became pregnant. Each of them gave
thus : "I hate my husband very much. So I am birth to half of a child. The lifeless forms of these half
ready to come with you, of my own accord." children were thrown out. A
giantess called Jara put
Taking her giant went to Gaiiga-
in his chariot the them together and instantly the pieces joined together
sagara sarigama. When she learned that this place was and became a living child. The giantess took that child
under the rule of her husband, she died of fear. Being and made a present of it to the King. That child grew up
unable to bear separation from KesSini, the giant also and was known by the famous name Jarasandha. From
died. As these two had died at the holy place of Gariga- that time onwards Giantess-worship began in
Magadha.
sagara saiigama, both attained the world of Visnu. When Jarasandha came of age the King anointed him
(
Skanda Purana, Kriyakanda) . as King and went to the hermitage of Candakausika
BRHADDHVANI. A This river is famous
river in India. with his wives and began to do penance. After coming
Mention is made about this river in
in the Puranas. to the forest Brhadratha killed a giant named Rsabha
Mahabharata, Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 32. and with his hide made three Big drums and placed
BRHADGARBHA. Son of emperor Sibi. (For further them in the city. The sound of one beat on the drum
information about him see Astaka) . will last for a month. When Bhlma, Arjuna and Sri
BRHADGIRI. A person named Yati. He was one of Krsna came to Magadha to kill Jarasandha they broke
those who were against sacrifice. (For further informa- these drums. (M.B. Adi Parva, 53 Sabha Parva, ;
BRHADIKSU. A king of the family of Bharata, (Bhaga- Parva, Chapter 67, Stanza 185).
vata, Skandha 9) . BRHADRATHA VI. An Agni (fire) As this Agni is the .
BRHADISTHA. A king of the Puru dynasty. (Agni son of Vasistha he has got the name Vasistha also. A
Purana,' Chapter 279). son named Praniti was born to this Agni. (M.B. Vana
BRHADRATHA I. A king. He went to the forest to Parva, Chapter 220).
lead a of retirement after having installed his eldest
life BRHADVATI. A river in India, puranically famous.
son on the throne. He began to do penance in the Mention is made about this river in Mahabharata,
forest for the attainment of heaven. One day the hermit Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 30.
Sakayanya appeared before him and told him that he BRHADVISA. A king of the family of Bharata. ( Bhaga-
might ask any boon. Accordingly the king said, "Tell vata, Skandha 9) .
me, what eternal Truth is and give me Spiritual know- BRHADUKTHA. He was the son of the hermit named
ledge". The hermit complied with his request. (Maiir! Pancajanya. He was transformed to a god, who is
Upanisad). remembered at the beginning of the sacrifice known
BRHADRATHA II. A
king of the Aiiga family. It is as agnihotra. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 22,
stated in Agnipurana, chapter 277 that he was the son Stanza 13).
of Jayadratha and that Vixvajit was the son of Brha- BRHADDYUMNA. See Arvavasu.
dratha. The Lamsuras, a forest tribe of the mountain BRHAJJYOTI. The son born to Angiras of his wife
of Grddhrakuta, saved this King from the attempt of Subha. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 218, Stanza 2) .
( Mahabharata,
Santi Parva, Chapter 49; Drona Parva, mentioned in Mahabharata Adi Parva, Chapter 122,
Chapters 57 and 62) . Stanza 57 that this Gandharva was present at the
BRHADRATHA III. A king of the Puru dynasty. This Birthday celebration of Arjuna.
Brhadratha was one of the seven sons of Girika. Ku^a, BRHANMANAS I. See Brhatkirti,
BRHANMANAS II 162 BRHASPATI
BRHANMANAS II. A hermit. This hermit was one of 3) Teacher of the Devas. The story of how Brhaspati
the seven sons born to Angiras of his wife Sum;;na. became the teacher of the devas, is given in the
(M.B. Vana
Parva, Chapter 208). IShasabharata, Chapter 76 as shown below :
BRHAN MANTRA. See Brhatkirti. "The Suras and the asuras ( the gods and the demons)
BRHANMEDAS. A king of the Yadavas. He was the became enemies from time immemorial, regarding the
son of Vapusman and father of Srideva. ( Kurma Purana, possession of wealth and prosperity in the three worlds.
1 24 6 10)
: : . To secure victory in the battles the gods made Brhas-
BRHANNALA. The name adopted by Arjuna during pati their teacher and likewise the asuras made Sukra
the concealment of the Pandavas in the Kingdom of their teacher."
Virata. (For further information see Arjuna). The devas and asuras began to fight for prosperity
BRHANTA 1 A
king. Yudhislhira performed a horse
. and wealth. At that time the devas selected Brhaspati
sacrifice. Arjuna was taking the sacrificial horse and the asuras selected Sukra, as their teacher.
round, for the conquest of the Norlh when King 4) The conjugality of Brhaspati. Tara was the wife of
Brhanta opposed him. Arjuna defeated him and brought Brhaspati. She was very beautiful. Seeing Candra's
him under subjugation. He presented Arjuna with a handsome figure she doted on him. There arose several
large quantity of precious stones. (M.B. Adi Parva, quarrels over this affair. Finally the devas intervened
Chapter 177). and Tara was given back to Brhaspati. Budha was
In the battle of Mahabharata Brhanta fought on the born to Candra by Tara.
side of the Pandavas, and was killed by Duss'asana. The individual called Tara in the family of the monkeys,
(M.B. Kama Parva, Chapter 4). was a son of Brhaspati. It is mentioned in Valmiki
BRHANTA II. A warrior on the side of the Kauravas. Ramayana, BalaKanda, Sarga 17, Stanza 10 as follows,
He was the brother of Ksemadhurti. Brhanta was which proves this fact.
killed in a fight with Satyaki. (M.B. Karna Parva, "Brhaspati begot the mighty monkey Tara." In the
Chapter 4). Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 19, Sukta 126, it is
BRHANTA. One of the seven mothers of Subrahmanya. mentioned that Brhaspati had a daughter named
'(M.B. Vana
Parva, Chapter 118, Stanza 10). Romasa. When her husband teased her RomaSa said
BRHASPATI. The teacher of the devas (Gods). to her husband ''You please come and feel your
:
1) Birth. The father of Brhaspati was Angiras, the hand on my body. Don't think that my organs are
son of Brahma. Brahma grew amorous, at the sight of small. Though I am hairy like the goats of Gandhara,
some celestial maids who were present at a sacrifice I have got all the organs fully grown." This is the
performed by Rudra ; and he had seminal flow. statement in the Rgveda. In the Uttara Ramayana,
Brahma put the semen in fire. From that fire the devas it is stated that Brhaspati had a Brahmana son named
such as Marici, Bhrgu, Angiras and others were born. Kusadhvaja, and that a daughter named Devavati was
The name Angiras was given because he was born out born to Kusadhvaja. Devavati was born from his
of angara ( live-coal) . Eight sons were born to Angiras mouth while Kusadhvaja was engaged in devotional
by his wife Vasuda. They were Utathya, Brhaspati, recitation oftheVedas. Slta was the rebirth of this
Vayasya, Santi, Ghora, Virupa, Samvarta and Sudh- Devavati. It is stated in the Mahabharata, Adi Parva,
anva. All of them were sages who had attained one- Chapter 67, Stanza 69, that Drona, the son of Bhara-
ness with the supreme Spirit by knowledge, and who dvaja, was born from a portion of Brhaspati. Kaca was
had been free from worldly pain. Of them Brhaspati, another son of Brhaspati. For full particulars of the
Utathya and Samvarta became famous through all story how Devayam (daughter of Sukra) hankered
the worlds. In some puranas Vasuda, the mother of after Kaca, see 'Kaca'. Mention is made in
Brhaspati, is given the name Sraddha also. Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 219, Stanza 1,
It is stated that Brhaspati had a sister named Aiigirasl. that Brhaspati had a wife called CandramasI and that
She was a follower of the Brahma cult. She became she gave birth to six Agnis. In Kampa Ramayana,
the wife of Prabhasa the last one of the eight Vasus. 1 Yuddhakanda mention is made that Brhaspati had a
Visvakarma was her son. (Bhagavata Skandha 4, Maha- daughter named Sulekha. Six sons and a daughter
bharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 66). were born to CandramasI. The six sons were six Agnis
2 ) Is Brhaspati the son of Agni ? In some puranas (fires) : In sacrifices the burnt offerings and the ghee
Brhaspati is described as the son of Agni. Its authority were the portions meant for the great and mighty fire
is given below. Angiras, the father of Brhaspati was Samyu, the son of Brhaspati. It is to satisfy this great
once doing penance in his hermitage. When the fire of fire which blazes with numberless pointed tongues, that
penance increased the brightness of the real fire in sacrifices such as Caturmasya, Asvamedha etc. ani-
decreased. Agni (fire) stood before Angiras and said mals are slaughtered. The daughter of Dharma was
"Oh Lord your brightness surpasses mine. From this
! the wife ofSarhyu. The name of the wonderful being
day onwards you are the real fire. So you shall be the (Samyu's wife) is Satya. A son named Dlpti and three
first fire and I will be the fire of Prajapati which is the
daughters were born to Samyu. The son of Dlpti is
second fire." Bharadvaja who is the recipient of first portion of Ghee
Because of this boon of Agni, the devas ( gods) recog- , oblated in sacrifice. On all full-moon days offerings
nized Angiras also as a fire-god. So in some Puranas of sacrifices are meant for Bharata. Bharata had a son
Brhaspati is mentioned as the son of Agni (fire-god) . named Bharata and a daughter named Bharati. Bharata
(Bhagavata, Skandha 4) . the Agni is said to be the son of the Agni who is Praja-
i It is stated in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 218 that the mother of Brhaspati had another name, Subha, and that Brhas-
pati had more brothers, born later, named
six Brhatkirti,Brhatjyoti, Brhadbrahma, Brhadmana, Bfhadmantra, and Brhadbhasa and that
Angirasi had the name Bhanumati also.
BRHASPATI 163 BRHASPATI
pati Bharata. Thus Bharata got the famous name 'the within the period of ten years he was able to remove
great'. Bharata married Vlra and a son was born to factionalism and hatred from them.
them called Vira. This Vira like Soma is the recipient At the expiry of ten years' invisible life Sukra returned
of sacrificial ghee, according to the belief of the Brah- having sent Jayanti away. The asuras saw two Sukras
manas. As this Vira is the recipient of the second ghee together and were amazed. They declared that the
offered in sacrifice, as Soma, he is known by names real Sukra was he who had been teaching them for the
such as Rathaprabhu, Rathadhvana and Kumbharetas. last ten years. Being dismayed at the ingratitude of the
Vira married Sarayu and became the father of Siddhi asuras he cursed them that they would shortly be
Siddhi the Agnidevata who is remembered in all destroyed and then left the place. At this juncture
fire songs. Fire which has no action on prosperity, Brhaspati also assumed his real form and returned to
fame and vigour has the name Niscyavana. Niscya- heaven. Thus the asuras became a people without a
vana praises the earth. Satya is the son of Niscyavana. leader like sheep without a shepherd. At last they
Satya which blazes by flame determines time. Satya is approached their teacher Sukra who became their
known by another name Niskrti. The Agni Svana teacher again, when they begged for his pardon. But
spreads diseases. The Agnis called Vipulaprabha, Yat- he said that his curse could not be recalled. But he
atma and Brahmacari are invoked in simple domestic gave them absolution by saying that they would regain
sacrifices by Brahmanas. The awful fire Badavagni is their lost power during the time of Manu Savarni.
supported by life. The sixth son of Brhaspati and Tara (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 4).
is called Svetakrt. The oblation offered to this Agni 7) Cursing Ravana. Once Ravana was returning haugh-
is known as Udadvara. Svaha was the daughter of and proud
ty having defeated the devas and con-
after
Candramasl. Svaha had three sons. They are three quered heaven, when Sulekha the daughter of Brhas-
Agnis called Kamagni, Amogha, and Ukthya. (Bhaga- pati, got terrified and ran away to hide herself from
vata, Skandha 4). him. Ravana chased her and when she was caught he
5 ) Growing amorous on the wife of elder brother. A story tried to ravish her. Brhaspati got angry and cursed him.
stating how Bphaspati begot a son by the wife of "You, who have grown rank by the dart of Cupid,
Utathya is given in Skandha 9 of Bhagavata. Mamata, will meet with death by the dart of Rama". (Kampa
the wife of Utathya, was pregnant. Brhaspati had Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda) .
coition with her when her husband was away. The 8) and Hanuman. Anjana. the mother of
Brhaspati
mother and the child in the womb who opposed the Hanuman was a servant of Brhaspati in her previous
act of Brhaspati were cursed. Mamata gave birth to two birth. Her name then was Punjikasthall. She once went
children. Fearing that her husband might cast her out to fetch water. At that time many Vidyadhara young
she left the son of Brhaspati in the forest and was people, both male and female, came there and engaged
about to go, when there was a divine voice from above, in amorous Punjikasthall witnessed these love-
acts.
"Mudhe, Bharadvajamimam bhara dvajarh Brhas- scenes for long time and then returned home. It is
a
pate." "You senseless woman, bring up this one born mentioned in Kampa Ramayana that Brhaspati
of the two. Brhaspati, bring up this one born of the cursed her to be born in the next birth as a female
two." Hearing this ethereal voice Brhaspati took the monkey.
child and gave him the name Bharadvaja and brought Anjana gave birth to Hanuman. When he grew up
him up. After that the child was given to emperor Hanuman desired to learn Vedas and Sastras (scrip-
Bharata. The famous archer Drona was the son of this tures). Hanuman approached Brhaspati to learn from
Bharadvaja. him. But Brhaspati was not prepared to teach a monkey
6) Personation of Brhaspati. The enmity between the who jumped about everywhere. The disappointed
devas and asuras increased day by day. isukracarya Hanuman went to the Sun, who asked him how it
the teacher of the asuras began to do penance before could be done by him as he was engaged in travelling
Siva in the Himalayas, with a view to get a divine without stop. Hanuman said that he would move in
spell or incantation to destroy the devas. The duration front of the sun always. Thus Hanuman who had been
of the penance was thousand years. Indra came to rejected by Brhaspati became the disciple of the Sun.
know of this secret and sent his daughter JayantI to (Uttara Ramayana).
the spell from Sukra by deceit. She stayed with Other information.
9)
ukra as his disciple and servant. Thousand years passed
fet mentioned in Devi Bhagavata, Skandha that
(1) It is 1,
by. Siva appeared before Sukra and gave him the spell, Brhaspati was the teacher of the hermit Suka.
capable of destroying the devas. When he was about
to return Jayanti accepted him as her husband. Be-
(2) In Agni Purana, Chapter 51, it is instructed that
cause of his familiarity with her, of a long standing, Brhaspati should be consecrated in temples as wearing
a necklace of beads (Elaeo carpus seeds) and a water
he could not refuse her request. Sukra told her that
he would become her husband, for a period of ten pot.
(3) Mention is made in the Mahabharata, Adi Parva,
years and that during that period both of them would
be invisible to the world. Thus the couple began an Chapter 169, Stanza 21 that Brhaspati gave Bhara-
invisible life. dvaja Agneyastra (the arrow of fire).
Brhaspati thought of making the best use of this period. (4) During the period of emperor Prthu, when the
He personated himself as Sukracarya and went to the Earth-goddess was changed into a cow the gods employ-
Asuras, who thinking that their teacher had returned ed Brhaspati to milk the cow to obtain the things they
after a long penance gave him a loving and sincere needed. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 69) .
welcome. Brhaspati sat on the seat of Sukracarya and (5) Once Brhaspati gave Subrahmanya a stick as a
began to exhort the asuras in such a manner that present. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46) .
BRHATKARMA 164 BUDHA I
(6) Once Brhaspati advised Indra to use sweet words. Purana that Narada had taught Brhatsena, Brahma-
(M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 84). vidya (theosophy) .
(7) Once Brhaspati got angry with Mahavisnu at the BRHATSENA. A female attendant of Damayantl. Mention
sacrifi.'ial hall of Uparicaravasu. (M.B. Santi Parva, is made in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 60, that
Chapter 336, Stanza 14). when Nala was defeated in the game of dice, Dama-
(8) Brhaspati cursed the Jaladevatas (goddesses of yanti sent Brhatsena to inform the ministers about the
water). (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 242, Stan/.a 27) . defeat of the King.
(9) Brhaspati and Candra are said to be Brahmana BRHATTA I. Another name of the Sun. (M.B. Adi
Kings. (M.B. Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 8). Parva, Chapter 1, Stanza 42).
10) Co-iclusio'i. Brhaspati was a deep thinker and one BRHATTA II. A king born to Kaleya, an asura. (M.B.
who had firm convictions in many matters. He was a Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Stanza 55).
man of vast knowledge. Every movement of the gods BRHATTA (M). A song of Sama ( conciliation one of
had its origin in the brains of Brhaspati. There is no the four expedients) originated from the head of her-
philosophy which does not contain the exhortations mit Pancajanya. From the face of this hermit another
made by B haspati at various times to the devas (gods) song of Sama called Rathantara also originated. These
or kings or hermits. two songs of Sama are very effective expedients. So
BRHATKARMA. A king of the family of Aiiga. (Agni- they are called Tarasaharas (quickly effective). (M.B.
Purana) .
Vana Parva, Chapter 220, Stanza 7).
BRHATKATHA. See Gunadhya. BRHATl I. Mother of Caksusamanu. Two sons, Sis^hi,
and Bhavya were born to Dhruva by his wife Sambhu.
BRHATKAYA. A king of the family of Bharata.
Succhaya the wife of Sisthi gave birth to five sons,
(Bhagavata, Skandha 9 ) .
Ripu, Ripunjaya, Vipra, Vrkala and Vrkatejas. These
BFIHATKETU. A king in ancient India. Mention sons were sinless. Brhati was the wife of Ripu. Caksu-
is made about this king in the Mahabharata, Adi sa Manu was born to Ripu and Brhati. (Visnu Purana,
Parva, Chapter 1, Stanza 237. ArmSa 1, Chapter 13).
BRHATKlRTI. A son of Angiras. Mention is made in BRHATl II. One of the seven horses of the Sun. The
Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 218, that seven seven horses of Sun are, Gayatri, Brhati, Usnik,
sons, named Brhatkirti, Brhajjyoti, Brhadbrahma, Brha- Anusfup and Paiikti. (Visnu Purana,
Jagati, Tristup,
dmana, Brhadmantra, Brhadbhasa and Brhaspati and a ArhsaChapter 8).
2,
daughter named Bhanumati were born to Angiras and BRHATVA. A devagandharva (a class of gods). In the
his wife Subha. Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 122, mention is
BRHATKSATRA I. A king. Scion of the family of made that this gandharva had participated in the
Bhaglratha. In the Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter birth celebration of Arjuna.
158, Stanza 21, it is mentioned that this king attended BRLHAISA (BILHA^A) A
Sanskrit poet who lived in
.
Pancali Svayarhvara (Marriage of Pancali) . the 1 1th Century A.D. Brlhana is the author ofVikram-
BRHATKSATRA II. A king of the country called ankadevacarita, Caurapancasika, Karnasundari and
Kekaya. On the first day of the battle of Bharata at such other works. Of these Karnasundari is a four-
Kuruksetra, this King fought with Krpa, the teacher. act play. The theme of the play is Kamadeva the
Later he killed Ksemadhurti in the battle. In Maha- king of the Calukyas marrying Karnasundari a
bharata, Drona Parva, Chapter 125, mention is made vidyadhara woman. The King at first sees her in a
that he fought with Drona, the teacher and was killed. dream and falls in love with her. She then appears
BRHATKSATRA III. A king of the country known as before the King in the guise of a boy. But the intelli-
Nisadha. In the battle of Bharata, he fought on the gent minister recognizes her by her fragrance and
side of the Kauravas and was killed in the battle, by introduces her to the King and the King marries her.
Dhrstadyumna (Drona Parva, Chapter 337, Stanza 65) . Brlhana had written his dramas on the model of
BRHATPUTRA. A king of the Puru dynasty. King Malavikagnimitra, Ratnavali and such other dramas.
Suhotra was his father. King Brhatputra had three BUDBUDA. A celestial maid. She was the hand-maid of
sons, Ajamldha, Dvimidha and Purumidha. (Agni Varga a celestial beauty. (For further information see
Purana, Chapter 278) .
Varga ) .
Surasena. On that day the King was about to go to poems of Kalidasa and Asvaghosa is seen in this
the
Heaven with the entire city by aeroplane. However poem. Buddhaghosa is said to have reached Ceylon
hard the pilots might try the plane would not move an in 357 A.D. and translated some Buddhist literature.
inch. Then the devas told the King "Drive away : BUDDHI. A wife of Dharmadeva. In Visnu Purana
the leper there. The vices of that sinful murderer Arhsa 1, Chapter 7, it is mentioned that Dharmadeva
have made the plane stationary." had married thirteen daughters of Daksa. They are
Surasena who was kind and righteous, neared the leper Sraddha, LaksmI, Dhrti, Tusti, Medha, Pusti, Kriya,
and cured him with caturaksarlmantra (a spell of four Buddhi, Lajja, Vapus, Sand, SiddhI and Klrti.
letters) and got ready to take him also to heaven. BUDDHIKAMA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B.
(Ganesa Purana 1 76). :
Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 12).
BUDDHA. The founder of Buddhism. Some consider BUDDHISM. (BUDDHA-MATA). The origin of Bud-
him to be an incarnation of Visnu. In days of old in dhism was in the sixth century B.C. This new religion
a battle the devas were defeated by the asuras and the was shaped out of Hinduism that prevailed at that
gods approached Visnu with their grievance. Maha- tune. Buddhism which had its origin in North India,
visnu incarnated as the son of Suddhodana with the
prevailed everywhere in India up to the eleventh
c. 166 GAKRAVYtJHA
century A.D. During that period there was an over- able, and so she requested her father to lessen the heat
flow of this religion to the other parts of Asia. Now ofSQrya. And, accordingly Visvakarma ground Surya
this religion has its full sway over the
people of Burma. on a grinding machine and thus diminished his efful-
90% of the papulation there, are adherents of Bud- gence. But, the grinding could diminish only 1/8 of
dhism. 80% of the people of Thailand, 60% of the that effulgence, which glowing red-hot dropped on the
people in Ceylon and Japan and 17% in China are earth, and with that Visvakarma made the Sudarsana
now Buddhists. In India, Pakistan and the Philippines Cakra, the Trisula, the Puspakavimana and the
the Buddhists are only a minority. Even though Indo- weapon called Sakti. Out of those four things the
nesia is a Muslim country there is a small class of Trisula came to be possessed by Siva, the Puspaka-
Buddhists there. Combodia, Lavos and Tibet are consi- vimana by Kubera and Sakti by Brahma. The Sudar-
dered to be Buddhist countries. In Nepal there are sana Cakra which was glowing like anything was
only two religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. In count- deposited in the sea. (Visnu Purana, Part 3, Chapter 2) .
ries outside Asia there are followers of Buddhism. There is a story in the Mahabharata as to how the
Statistics reveal that there are one hundred and sixty- Cakra thrown into the sea came into the possession of
five thousand Buddhists in North America, one Mahavisnu. While Sri Krsna and Arjuna were picnic-
hundred and thirtyfive thousand in South America, ing on the shores of the Yamuna Agnideva went to
and ten thousand in Europe. The number of Buddhists them and requested them to give Khandava forest to
in the world today is 150.31 crores. him for food. As Taksaka, friend of Indra, was living
C in the forest the latter was causing heavy rains to fall
C. (xf) The letter C has two meanings, viz., evil people there. Krsna and Arjuna realized the fact that Agni
and pure man. would be able to consume the forest only after subjuga-
CAIDYA. Sisupala, king of Cedi. Dhrstaketu, King of ting Indra. But, how to manage it ? Then Agni said
Cedi, is also known by this name. It was this Caidya that he would supply the weapon to fight Indra with,
who led the Krauricavyuha created by Dhrstadyumna and accordingly he meditated on Varuna, who pre-
in the great battle. (Krauncavyuha = battle array A sented to him (Agni) a chariot and Mag with monkey
in the shape of a stork). (Sloka 47, Chapter 50, Bhlsma as symbol, a quiver which would never become empty
Parva) . of arrows, a bow called Gandlva and the Sudarsana
CAITRARATHA. A prince born to King Kuru of his Cakra. Agnideva gave the Cakra to Sri Krsna and the
queen Vahini (Sloka 50, Chapter 94, Adi Parva). other things to Arjuna. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter
CAITRARATHA(M). A forest of puranic fame. Once 297).
King Yayati enjoyed sexual acts with the apsaras CAKRA (M) II. A city in ancient India. (Bhlsma
Visvaci in this forest. (Sloka 43, Chapter 75, Adi Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 45) .
four mountains, Mandara, Merumandara, Suparsva CAKRADHARA. A very intelligent brahmin. One-eyed
and Kumuda. Above each of these was a garden-wood, and bent down in body he is a character in Vatsaraja-
Nandana, Caitraratha, Vaibhrajaka and Sarvatobhadra. carita. (See
Vidusaka) .
Thus it is to be presumed that Caitraratha was on CAKRADHARMA. Chief of the Vidyadharas. He, with
Merumandara. (Chapter 16, Pancama Skandha, his younger brother is engaged in singing the praise of
Bhagavata). Kubera. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 27).
CAITRARATHA PARVA. A sub-division of Adi Parva, CAKRADVARA (M) A great mountain. Indra per-
.
near Girivraja, the capital city of Magadha. This moun- CAKRAKA. The son, a
Brahmavadin, of Visvamitra.
tain was very dear to the people of
Magadha. The (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 64) .
followers of Brhadratha deemed it as a God and CAKRAMANDA. A naga (a serpent). It was this
worshipped it. (Chapter 21, Sabha Parva). naga which was deputed by Ananta ( naga king) to
CAKATA. (See Brahmadatta II). lead the soul ofBalarama on his death to Pata.la.
GAKRA I. A son of Vasuki, the Naga king. He died at (Mausala Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 16) .
the serpent yajna (Sarpa Satra) of Janamejaya by CAKRANEMl. A woman attendant of Skandadeva.
falling into the fire. (Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Verse 6). (Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 5) .
GAKRA II. One of the three attendants given to CAKRATI. A town in ancient India. (Bhlsma Parva,
Subrahmanya by Visnu, the other two being Sankrama Chapter 9, Verse 45 ) .
and Atikrama. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 40). CAKRA VAN. A mountain very much extolled in the
GAKRA III. One of the two attendants presented to Puranas. When deputing monkeys in quest of Slta,
Skandhadeva by Tvasta, the other one being Anucakra. Sugriva instructed them to make a special search in
(Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 40). Mount Cakravan. It was on this mountain that Visva-
CAKRA (M) I. Sudarsana Cakra (disc) of Mahavisnu. karma made the Sudarsana Cakra. (Valmlki Rama-
The Visnu Purana contains the following story about yana, Kiskindha Kanda, Chapter 42, Verse 16) .
She did not, therefore, attend to Visnu's talk. Angered CAMPAKARANYA. (CAMPAKARA). A holy place
at this Visnu told the devl "Since your eyes find
: in Northern India. One day's halt at the place and a
enjoyment on unnecessary things and move about bath there is considered to be as good as giving away
among such objects, you shall be called from today one thousand cows as gift. (M.B. Vana Parva,
onwards Rama and Gala. Also you will be born as a Chapter 84).
mare on earth. Accordingly Mahalaksmi was born as CAMPEYA. Son of Vi^vamitra who was a brahmavadin
a mare on the banks of river SarasvatI, and regained (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 58).
her old form only after delivering a son by Visnu. That CAMPtJ. A literary form of presenting a story in a
son was Ekavira, founder of the Hehaya kingdom. (DevT mixture of prose and verse, and abounding in beauti-
Bhagavata, Skandha 6). ful descriptions "Gadyapadyamayam kavyarh Cam-
:
CAMARA. (CAMARl). An animal whose tail is its most piirityabhidhlyate". Over and above prose and verse
important and valued organ. In the course of its move- the Campus use dandakas (very long, involved and
ments in the forest if the tail gets entangled anywhere poetical prose). This literary form had its origin
it is supposed to lie down there till the tail is freed first in Sanskrit and other Indian languages adopted it
by
itself. About the origin of Gamara, the with some variations. For instance, though prose in
following story
is told in the Valmlki Sanskrit that in
Ramayana. Krodhavasa, daughter Campus is really prose, Malayalam
of Daksaprajapati and wife of Kasyapa had ten daugh- is something akin to metrical prose. There are more
ters, viz. MrgI, Mrgamada, Hari, Bhadramada, than two hundred Campus in Malayalam. The most
Matangi, Sarduli, Sveti, Surasa, Surabhi and Kadru. famous of the Campu writers in Malayalam are
To Mrgamadi the Srmaras and Gamaras owe their Punam Namboothiri, Mahamangalam Namboothiri
origin. (Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Canto 14) . and Nllakantha.
CAMARA(M). A rod (handle)with a large tuft of CAMO. A division of an army. (See Aksauhini)
hair, fibre or feathers at the end. A symbol used by
kings and brahmins. Camara of the king should have a
CAMWDA. (See ParvatI) .
golden handle, and it should be made of the wings of CAlifAKA. auspiciousness of Canaka (cowdung) is
The
the swan, the peacock, the Balaka bird etc. But, the due to Laksml. ( See LaksmI, Paras 1 and 6) .
wings of different birds shall not be intermixed. Circu- CA^AKYA (KAUTILYA). The famous author of
lar in shape, the Camara should have on its handle "Arthasastra" a treatise on political economy.
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 sandhis Eastern and western scholars have made exhaustive
(joints, knots). (Agni-
purana, Chapter 245). researches on this intellectual giant of ancient India,
CAMASA. A yogi, the younger brother of Bharata, a king Canakya. But, nothing definite has yet been established
born in the dynasty of Priyavrata, son of Manu. This about his time or life. Indians have accepted as a fact
country got its name Bharata from king Bharata (country the traditional legend that he was a minister of Candra-
ruled by Bharata) Bharata had nine brothers called
. gupta, the founder of the Maurya dynasty. It is also
KuSavarta, Ilavarta, Brahmavarta, Aryavarta, Malaya, firmly believed that it was this mighty intellect of
a
Bhadraketu, Sena, Indrasprk and Kikafa. Bharata had brahmin who made Candragupta a powerful emperor
also nine other brothers renowned as
navayogis, born
and steered the ship of his state. The phrase 'Canakya's
of another mother. Camasa was one of them, the other kutilaniti' (crooked tactics) has become proverbial.
eight being Kavi, Hari, Ambarisa, Prabuddha, Pippa- Some scholars hold the opinion that he came to be
layana, Avirhotra, Dramida and Kharabhajana. (Bhaga- called 'Kautilya' because of his Kutila (crooked)
vata Pancama Skandha) . tactics;
but evidence to establish this view-point is yet
CAMASODBHEDA. A holy place in Saurastra which to be adduced.
forms part of the very reputed sacred place called It is his famous Arthasastra, which has made Canakya's
VinaSana. It is said that it was here that the river name a world famous one. The great German thinker
SarasvatI which once became invisible, was detected. A
,
Jolly has described the Arthasastra as a unique composi-
bath here is as efficacious as performing the Jyotistoma tion in the Sanskrit language. And, Johann Meyer, the
yajna. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 82, Verse 112). great western scholar has the following to say about
CAMATKARA. (See PATTU) .
the book :
CAMOHARA. A visvadcva. (M.B. Anusasana Parva. "Kautilya's Arthasastra not one single text, it is a
is
Chapter 191, Verse 35). collection and collatcration ofall books in ancient
CAMPA. A king born in the Aiiga dynasty. (See India. To study the greatness of the theories and
CANDRAVAMSA) .
principles contained in it today requires continuous
and
CAMPA. CAMPAPURI
( ). A
city on the banks of river constant study at least for twenty years and the un-
often referred to in the Puranas. It
remitting efforts of a scholar with unabounded know-
Gaiiga, Cariipa is
was here that Lomapada lived in tretayuga. ( M.B. ledge are required."
CANCALAKSI 169 CANDAMAHASENA
Even his name has not yet been confirmed beyond Ra van a war this monkey caused much trouble to Kum-
doubts. Kautilya is also called Visnugupta,
Canakya, bhakarna. ( M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 287, Verse 6) .
Dramila, and Angula. Modern researches place the CANDABHARGAVA. A maharsi born in the dynasty
date of the Arthasastra at near about B.C. 400. In of Cyavana Muni. A very erudite scholar and deeply
Visakhadatta's Mudraraksasa (drama) the name it was this maharsi, who performed
versed in the Vedas,
Kautilya is used. Janamejaya's famous Sarpa sattra. (M.B., Adi Parva,
The Authors of Nltisastra maintain that the name of Chapter 58, Verse 4).
the author of Arthasastra was Visnugupta. It may be CANDAKA. A forest hunter who attained salvation by
gathered from the Mudraraksasa that he became famous the worship of Sivaliriga. (Phallus of Siva).
as Canakya as he was the son of Canaka, and that While once hunting in the woods Candaka saw a Siva
he possessed deep erudition in Nltisastra, Dharma- temple in ruins, and the Sivalinga lying on the ground
sastra and astrology. There is another legend to the uncared for. This sight greatly grieved him, and he
effect that this brahmin (Ganakya) belonged to Kanci- told Sirhhaketu, son of the Pancala Raja who happened
pura and that he migrated to Pataliputra, the seat of to come that way all about the temple and the
learning and scholarship. As Kamandaka, who lived liriga. To his query as to whether the sastra permitted
in the fourth century B.C. has eulogised Ganakya in a hunter like himself to worship Sivaliriga, Simhaketu
his nitisastra it may be surmised that Ganakya lived answered there were injunctions in the Sastras for
sometime near about Gandragupta and Ganakya
that. people like him (Candakas) to instal Sivalinga on
are referred to in the Visnu and the Vamana Puranas. |
rock and then worship it daily, the worshipper wear-
Kautilya was keen-eyed and scholar par excellence. ing ashes from the burning ghat on his body. Accord-
"Arthasastra" is a great book written by him after ingly Gandaka installed the linga on a rock and began
thoroughly examining the viewpoints of previous worshipping it daily along with his wife, Pulindi. But
scholars, and thenestablishing his own views and after sometime there was left no ashes in the burning
theories. Fromthe Dasakumaracarita of Dandi (A.D. ghat and Candaka and Pulindi discussed between them
700) it may be seen that there are 6000 verses in the the means to get ashes for the next day. Then Pulindi
Anusfcup metre (eight letters in one line) in the Artha- suggested that she should burn herself to ashes and that
sastra composed by Visnugupta for the use of Gandra- Gandaka should continue worshipping the Sivalinga
gupta Maurya. The Artha'astra has been held in praise wearing on his body the ashes. Very unwillingly
by Banabhatta who lived in the 7th Century, Soma- Candaka agreed with the sad proposal of his wife, and
devasuri, who lived in the 10th century and also by the next day he worshipped the Sivalinga wearing on
Hemacandra, the author of Kavyanusasana, who lived his body the ashes of Pulindi. And, at the close of the
in the 12th century. The book is a discourse on the worship he called aloud for Pulindi, and lo wonder !
principles and practices that are necessary to establish of wonders she stood there before him more healthy
!
a strong government of an ideal empire. Ganakya has than formerly. Moreover a vimana descended from the
mentioned in his book with respect the old scholars like skies and conducted both Candaka and Pulindi to
Manu, Sukra, Brhaspati, Narayana, Katyayana and Sivaloka. (Siva Purana, Sambarama.ha.tyma) .
Govinda dlksita. (For the puranic story about Canakya CANDAKAUSlKA. A muni, son of Kaksivan, the son of
see Vararuci, Para 6). JJGautama. Brhadratha, King of Magadha, was having no
C.<\NCAlAKSl. A notorious harlot who lived in dva- issues when, one day, Candakausika went to the palace
para yuga. When one day at midnight she came to the and blessed the King as a result of which a son called
appointed place to meet a paramour the latter had not Jarasandha was born to him. Candakausika continued to
arrived. While waiting impatiently there she was live at Magadha for long as the preceptor of the kings of
attacked and killed by a leopard. Emissaries of Visnu that land. ( See Jarasandha) .
as also of Yama arrived to carry away the soul of CANDALA. (See Caturvarnya) .
3) Marriage. One day, during a hunting expedition took refuge in a forest. After wandering in the forest
a boar escaped unhurt by the king's arrows and after for a long time, at the instance of Brhaspati they sought
turning turtle his chariot it went into a cave. The king asylum wi;h Parvatl. Parvatl stood for sometime in deep
in great anger followed the pig into the cave, and going concentration, and there emerged from her divine body
forward some distance he saw a beautiful animal where- Kausiki or Kali. Parvati assured the Devas that she
upon he seated himself on the side of a tank. There he would kill Sumbha and Nisumbha. And, then Kali sat
saw, amidst a number of women an exceptionally alone on a rock in the thick Forest. Canda and Munda,
beaut ful woman moving about. Casting her charming
;
who happened to pass that way were attracted by the
eyes glistering with love the woman approached the great beauty of Parvatl and imparted the news to
King. During their conversation, when the king told Sumbha and Nisumbha, and they deputed Dhumraksa
her about himself she began crying. To the query as and 60,000 soldiers to bring Parvatl over to them but ;
any injury on it. The women you see around are CA^PATU]WPAKA(S). A son of Garuda. (Udyoga
princesses captured by my father from various palaces Parva, Chapter 101, Verse 9).
for myhelp, and my name is Angara vatl. My father CANDAVEGA. A gandharva. (See Puranjana).
became a Raksasa as the result of a curse he is now ; CAIiTDIKA. A terrific form of Parvati, who is worship-
asleep in the assumed form of a boar. On
aw.iking he ped in temples under the name Candikadevi. 'I he
is sure to eat you for food, and it was that thought which Devi's idol has twenty hands. In the hands on the right
brought tears to my eyes". To these words of Aiigara- side are held Sfda (three-pronged weapons) sword,
vati, the king replied as follows "If you have any
: Vela (rod), Cakra, pasa (rope), parigha (shield),
love for me you would go to your father and begin ayudha, abhaya, damaru and Sakti, while the hands
crying when he wakes up, and to his question as to on the left side hold n^gapaSa, small parigha, axe,
why you are crying you should reply that thoughts Ankusa (a long-hooked rod) pasa, mani, flag, gada,
,
about your future in the event of your fathers's death mirror and an iron cylindrical rod. 1 here are also
brought tears in your eyes." idols of Candika with ten hands. At the feet of the
Aiigaravatl agreed to the above proposal of the King. Devi lies Mahisasura with his head severed from body.
She hid the King in a safe place and went and stood There will also be standing near the idol a purusa (man)
by the side of her father. Everything happened as was born from the neck of the Mahisa brandishing his wea-
anticipated and Angaraka consoled his daughter by pon, and with the Sula in his hand in all rage
and
saying that none would be able to kill him whose womitting blood and with red hairs and eyes. That
body was as hard and strong as diamond, there being purusa is bound strongly on his neck with rope. The
only one opening through which he might be struck on vehicle of the Devi is a lion. The Devi is mounted on
the left wrist which might be concealed by the bow. the lion with her left leg on the asura lying below. This
Candamahasena who heard the above talk came out of Candikadevi thus stands with weapons in the hand, as
his hiding place and challenged the asura to war. He annihilator of enemies and with three eyes, and she
raised his left hand to show the sign, "just coming, should be worshipped in pujamandala with nine Padmas
the Devi
please wait", and the king then shot his arrow through (tantric divisions) along with her idol. Firstly
the opening on his left wrist. The asura fell dead. should be worshipped in the central padma and Indra
4) Birth of Vdsavadattd :
And, now Candamahasena and others in the other padmas.
married Angaravati and returned to his kingdom with There is also another Candikadevi (Durga) with eigh-
his wife. Two sons, Gopalaka and Palaka were born to teen hands. She holds in her right hand a skull, shield,
the royal couple, and the King celebrated an Indro- mirror, broom, bow, flag, damaru and pa^a^cord) and
tsava for the welfare and prosperity of the children. in her left hand rod, iron pounder, Sula, Vajra, sword,
Pleased at the utsava Indra appeared to the king in AnkuSa (a sticklike weapon with one end bent to hold
sleep and blessed him saying that a daughter would be on to things) Sara (arrow) Cakra and salaka. There
born to him and that her son would be crowned empe- are nine other Durgas having the same weapons as the
ror of the Vidyadharas. Accordingly a daughter was above except the Damaru and the broom But, they
.
born to the King, and she was called Vasavadatta. have only sixteen hands each. These nine Durgas are
( given by Vasava, i.e. Indra) .
Udayana married Vasava- called Rudracanda, Pracanda, Ugracanda, Canda-
datta. (See Udayana). nayika, Aticandika, and Candogra. The Durga standing
CANDAMUNDAS. Two brothers born in the Asura at the centre will have the colour of gorocana (red
dynasty, the elder brother being called Canda and sandal paste) and the others will have the following
the younger Munda. These brothers collected, like colours; arunavarna (red) Krsna varna (black), nila
the other asura leaders Dhumraksa, and Raktabija, varna (blue), s'ukla varna (white), dhumra varna
thousands of soldiers and lived in all pomp and (brown) pita varna (yellow) and sveta varna (white).
glory. The nava Durgas (nine Durgas ) are installed for the
During this period two asura brothers called Sumbha prosperity of children etc. And all these are different
and Nisumbha had returned from the Himalayas after forms of Parvati.
securing from Brahman a boon that they would meet Also, in various aspects or poses, Parvati is called by
with their death only at the hands of a woman. Canda other names. She is called Siddha when installed in
and Munda became their friends and attendants. Raihbha-vana wearing aksamala (garland of beads),
Sumbha and Nisumbha set out on a triumphal tour kirita (crown) and agni. The same Siddha without
and conquered heaven, earth and patala. The Devas the fire is called Lalita. Gauridevi with one of the
CANDRA I 171 CANDRA IV
hands on the left side placed on the shoulder and the assured him all support in case war broke out between
head, and holding the mirror in the other hand, and Indra and Candra. He also strongly advised Candra
holding in one of the hands on the right side fruits etc. not to return Tara to Brhaspati. And, ultimately a
and the other hand held up is called Saubhagya gaurl. fierce war began between Indra and Candra. All acti-
(For further details see Parvatl ) (Agni Purana, Chap-
. vities in the world were thrown into confusion and
ter 50). chaos. At this Brahma on his harhsa ( swan) came to
CANDRA A prominent asura, also called Candra -
I. the scene and admonished Candra and Sukra. They
varman. was this asura, as beautiful as Candra(the
It could not but obey Brahma and so were forced to stop
moon) who was born as the king of Kamboja under fighting. Moreover, Candra returned Tara to Brhas-
the name Candravarman (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter pati.
67, Verse 31). The quarrel and fighting thus ended for the time
CANDRA A
king born in the Solar dynasty and the
JI. being, but another problem cropped up. At the time
son of Visvarandhi and father of Yuvanasva. See Candra returned Tara to Brhaspati she was carrying,
Varhsavall) and Brhaspati was not aware of the fact. And at last
CANDRA ill. The Puranas declare that Candra was Tara delivered an exceptionally beautiful male child.
one of the invaluable things got at the churning of The naming ceremony of the child was duly performed,
Ksirabdhi (ocean of milk) Candra, Mahalaksmi, Sura, Brhaspati himself acting as its father. When the news
Uccaihsravas, Kaustubha, Parijata, Kamadhenu, reached Candra he sent a messenger to Brhaspati
Dhanvantari, Amrtam and Kalakuta were the things claiming the child was his. Brhaspati too claimed its
thus got from the Ocean of Milk. (M.B. Adi Parva, fatherhood. This controversy developed almost to the
Chapter 18 and Visriu Purana, Part 1, Chapter 9) Also, . brink of a second devasurawar. At this stage Brahma
the evil devata called Jyesfha, Airavata, the gem went to Brhaspati's house and questioned Tara as to
named Cintamani and fair damsels like Tara and Ruma who really was her child's father, and she named Candra.
were got from the Ksirabdhi, (Kampa Ramayana, Upon this Brahma asked Brhaspati to release the child
Yuddhakanda ) For general information about Candra,
. to Candra. Brhaspati did so. (Devi Bhagavata, Pratha-
see Grahas). ma Skandha) .
CANDRA IV. (CANDRA DEVA). 3) Wives of Cmdra. Candra took twentyseven daugh-
1) Birth. The child born to Atri by Anasuya. (See ters of Daksa as his wives. (Devi Bhagavata, Saptama
Pururavas). In Skandha 4 of the Devlbhagavata it is Skandha). These twentyseven wives are the twenty-
stated that it was Brahman who was born as Candra. seven stars. Candra circumambulates Mahameru along
(See Atri). with these, his twentyseven wives (Stars).
(M.B. Vana
2) Candra led married life with the wife of his guru. Tara, Parva, Chapter 163, Verse 33). The names of the
the very beautiful wife of Brhaspati, preceptor of the twentyseven wives are given hereunder: As vim, Bha-
Devas happened to reach Candra's home during her Krttika, RohiiiT, Mrgasiras, Ardra, Punarvasu,
rarri,
perambulation one day. Candra and Tara fell in love Pusya, Aslesa, Janakam, PhalgunI, UttaraphalgunI,
with each other at first sight and lived in conjugal Hasta, Citra, Svati, Visakha, AnuridhI, Jyesjha,
happiness. And thus days passed by. Brhaspati, being Mula, Purvasadha, Uttarasadha, Srona, Sravistha,
informed of the fact on enquiry, deputed his disciples Pracetas, Purvaprosthapada, Uttaraprosthapada,
to bring Tara back, but to no purpose. Brhaspati sent Revati.
his disciples again and again to Tara, but all to no Solar eclipse accordingto the Puranas. The Devas and
purpose. Then Brhaspati himself went to the house of the asuras jointly churned Ksirabdhi wherefrom emerg-
Candra and invited Tara, this time also to no purpose. ed Dhanvantari with the Amrtakumbha (pot of nectar) .
formed Bh jmidevi into a cow and milked from her all CANDRA. An important river in ancient India. (Bhisma
things and
provisions. On that occasion it was Brahma, Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 29).
who acted as Calf. And, following Prthu when the CANDRAGUPTA I. Second son of Ravana. Once
Rsis milked the cow Candra served as Calf. (For when Sri Rama was King, Candragupta abducted the
details see Prthu) . daughter o! Sugriva and the daughter-in-law ofVibhi-
6) Waxing and waning of Candra, the puranic story regard- sana. Hanuman released them both as ordered by Sri
it. Of the
ding twentyseven daughters of Daksa whom Rama. (Kampa Ramayana Uttara Kanda also see ;
Candra had married he loved Rohini much more than Sahasramukha Ravana ) '
.
the other twentysix wives, and so kept her always with CANDRAGUPTA II. A minister of Kartavlryarjuna.
him. This annoyed the twentysix wives, who complained Kartavlryarjuna was once fed sumptuously by Jamad-
about it to Daksa. Daksa's advice to Candra to treat agni at his as'rama with the help of Susila, the deva-
all the wives on an
equal footing had no effect on him. surabhi (divine cow). Candragupta, at the instance of
So, the twentysix neglected wives again complained to Kartavlryarjuna tried to capture Susila by force, which
Daksa as follows "We shall stay in the asrama and
:
disappeared immediately in the sky. Kartavlryarjuna 's
serve you. Soma (Candra) does not associate with us, servants then forcibly took away its calf. Candragupta
he will not accept your advice." thrashed to death Jamadagni, who tried to obstruct
Though Daksa warned Candra a second time, that too their action. (See Kartavlrya, Para 9j .
that Candrahasa should marry her. In the cir- CANDRAMAS. A rsi who imparted spiritual knowledge
cumstances the marriage of Candrahasa and Visaya was to Sampati and advised Jatayu to give directions about
solemnised on the earliest auspicious day. the way to the monkeys in their search for Sltadevl.
In due course Dhrstabuddhi returned to Kaundala with (
Valmiki Ramayana ) .
took to widow's life. Enemies captured his kingdom givq alms to the brahmin-killer who is a drunkard also."
and imprisoned his father, Indrasona. When once the During his begging tour he visited all the tirthas also,
naga King asked Candrangada to marry naga girls and yet brahmahatya stuck on to him.
settle down in Patala he told the King that he was already While this sinner Vidura, his heart rent with sorrow and
married and that his wife Simantini was brooding over remorse, was sitting under a tree, a Magadha brahmin
him, and he had, therefore, to return to her. Accordingly called Candrasarman happened to come there. This
the naga king sent him back with presents of a white brahmin had committed the sin of guruhatya (killing the
horse, a Raksasa and an infant serpent. preceptor). He told Vidura: "While residing with the
Candrangada, with his presents, came up in Kalindl guru, blinded by desire, I killed the guru, and am now
where Simantini, grief-stricken was spending her days burning myself in the fire of repentance."
in penance, and they recognised each other. Informed While they were engaged thus in conversation a third
about the return of Candrangada the enemy kings releas- person, called Vedasarman also came there in an absolu-
ed his father from captivity and apologised to him. tely tired condition. He told Vidura and Candrasarman
And he pardoned them. that his relatives and others had cast him out as he once
Candrangada and Simantini took great interest in observ- did the sin of agamyagamana, and by the time he had
ing somavaravrata (fasting etc. on Mondays) and pleased finished telling his story a VaiSya called Vanjula came
at the vrata of the latter Sri Parvati blessed her. Two there. Besides drinking liquor he had committed govadha
brahmins called Devamitra and Sarasvata were living (killing of cow) also. Though these four sinners assemb-
there at the time. Three sons called Sumedha, Sarasvata led at the same place, they only talked, but did not touch
and Samavan were born to Devamitra. The sons also one another, take food together, rest on the same seat
turned out to be great scholars but they were poor. or lie on the same bedsheet.
They could not get brides as they were poor. In the According to the advice of a Siddha (an evolved soul )
hope that they would get some money if they approached the four sinners dived in the holy waters of Ganga and
Candrangada and Simantini the brahmins went to came out redeemed of their sins. (Padma Purana,
them. After hearing their story the king and his queen Chapter 91).
conducted them in a procession in the precincts of the CANDRASARMA II. A brahmin of Agni gotra from
palace, Sumedha dressed as husband and Samavan Miyapura, he was the disciple and son-in-law of Deva-
as his wife. But, lo when the procession was over
! sarman. Both of them were killed by a Raksasa while
Samavan could not be divested of his womanhood, and they were gathering darbha (a particular variety of
Simantini named her Samavatl. Being told that his grass used in religious ceremonies) in the forest. Candra-
son had turned woman Sarasvata sought the advice of sarma attained Vaikuntha as he was a very righteous
some munis to remedy the situation. But, all the attempts person. During Krsnavatara (incarnation of Visnu
of the munis to change the woman to man failed, and as Sri Krsna) he was born as Acrura. (Padma Purana).
they opined that only Parvati, who had been pleased CANDRASEKHARA. A King (son of Pausya). The
by the Somavaravrata, would be able to find a solution following story about his birth is told in the Padma
to the problem. From that day onwards the brahmin Purana.
youths lived as husband and wife. (Siva Purana, Soma- Though married for a long time Pausya did not have an
varavratam ) . issue. He beganworshipping Siva to be blessed with a
CANDRAPIDA. A son of Janamejaya. Pariksit was the son. Siva was pleased at this and he gave him a fruit
son of Abhimanyu (Arjuna's son). Janamejaya was which he divided equally among his three wives. In
Pariksit's son. Janamejaya married princess Vapusfama due course the three wives delivered. But, to get the
of Ka.<ii. Two sons called Candraplda and Siiryapida full and complete form of a child the three children had to
were born to the couple. Candraplda had hundred sons, be joined together, and so the parts were unified. This
who distinguished themselves as great heroes in archery. boy was Candrasekhara. Thus Candrasekhara acquired
Satyakarna was the eldest among the sons. Svetakarna, the name Tryambaka.
son of Satyakarna, married Yadavl, the daughter of Candrasekhara married Taravati, daughter of Kaku-
Sucaru. (Bhavisya Purana). tstha, a King of the solar dynasty. On account of the
CANDRAPRABHA. (See' Suryaprabha). curse of Kapotamuni two sons, Bhrngi and Mahakala
CANDRAPRABHA. Mother of the wonderful girl, were born to Taravati in Vetala yoni and Bhairava
Somaprabha. (See Somaprabha). yoni respectively. Dama, Uparicara and Alarka were
CANDRASARMA I. A great sinner, who killed his sons born to Candrasekhara himself. (Aurasaputras).
preceptor. The Padma Purana relates the story of four CANDRASENA I. A king of Simhala desa (Ceylon).
sinners named Candrasarman, Vedasarman
Vidura, Candrasena had two daughters, Mandodarl and Indu-
and Vanjula, who shed their sin by bathing in the mati by his wife Gunavatl. Kambugrlva, son of Sudh-
Ganga. The sins committed by the four were respectively anva, the chief of Madra desired to marry Mandodarl.
Brahmahatya (killing of brahmin), Guruhatya (killing But, since she preferred unmarried life Kambugrlva's
of the preceptor), Agamyagamana (having sexual con- desire did not fructify. Some time later she refused to
tact with women like the wife of guru which is debarred) marry another suitor also, King Virasena of Kosala.
and Govadha (killing of cow) respectively. The leader Meanwhile the marriage of her younger sister, Indumati
of the above four sinners was one Vidura of the Pancala was celebrated, herself having selected Sudesna, the
desa. He was begging in the streets without the tuft Madra prince at the Svayamvara as husband. Though a
of hair, the sacred thread and tilaka (mark of sandal handsome person Sudesna was a philanderer, and one
paste etc. on the forehead). He went from house to day Indumati saw him in bed with her maid-servant.
house begging for alms crying thus: "Here is come the From that day onwards, cutting asunder all marital
man (himself) who committed Brahmahatya. Please relationship with Sudesna, Indumati went and stayed
CANDRASENA II 175 CANDRASVAMT
with her father. This story told by Mahisasura to show During this period, rains having failed, very severe
that women possess only very little discretion occurs in famine stalked Kamalapura. Even the king unmindful of
the Pancama Skandha of Devlbhagavata. justice and righteousness began extracting from the
CANDRASENA II. A king of Ujjayani and a great people whatever they possessed. Finding the situation
devotee of Siva. As he performed great sacrifices and deteriorated so much Candrasvaml set out for his father-
gave away money and materials in gift to those who pray- in-law's house with Mahipala and Candramati, and on
ed for them, an attendant of Siva called Manibhadra the way they had to cross what was once a wild forest,
once gave him a gem, which possessed supernatural but which had by then been denuded of green trees or
powers. Attracted by the lustre and glare of the gem other foliage due to the failure of the rains. The children
many kings wanted to purchase it. But Candrasena were severely afflicted by and so the father, after
thirst,
refused to sell it. Much incensed at the refusal, the enemy leaving them at the foot of a tree went in search of water
kings set out to fight Candrasena, who then took refuge when he was caught by the people of the forest king and
in the Mahakala temple in Ujjayani the idol installed in taken before him. When he knew that he was about to
which was Sivaliriga. Lord Siva then appeared to him be given in sacrifice to Devi the brahmin folded his
and granted him salvation. (Siva Purana, Saniprado- hands and prayed to Suryadeva, who appeared before
samahatmyam ) . him and assured him that not only will death not visit
CANDRASENA III.The Mahabharata refers to another him, but also he would be united with his wife and
Candrasena, son of Samudrasena, King of Bengal. He children.
was present at the svayarhvara of Pancali. (M.B. Adi The children left under the tree began crying, their
Parva, Chapter 185, Verse 11 ). Bhimasena once defeat- father having not returned to them, and a Vaisya called
ed Candrasena and his father in fight. (Sabha Parva, Sarthadhara who came that way felt pity for the crying
Chapter 30, Verse 24 ) After that Candrasena became a
. children and took them to his house. One day
supporter of the Pandavas. It is stated in Drona Parva Anantasvaml, a brahmin and a minister of King
that in the great war Candrasena fought from a chariot Taranatha of Tarapura happened to visit Sarthadhara.
drawn by horses as white as Candra (moon) and got Anantasvaml, who had no children of his own took away
killed by AsVatthama. with him the children from Sarthadhara.
CANDRASENA IV. Another Candrasena, a partisan of One day Suryadeva appeared to the forest king in his
the Kauravas, is referred to in the Bharata as having sleep and asked him not to kill the brahmin (Candra-
fought against the Pandavas. His duty was to guard the svami) held captive by him. The very next morning
chariot wheels of Salya; he was killed by Yudhisthira. Candrasvaml was released from captivity. Roaming
about in quest of his children, Candrasvaml reached the
(Salya Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 52).
CANDRASlTA. A female attendant of Skandadeva. city called Jalapura where he was put up as the guest
of a house-holder. One day the host told Candrasvaml
(M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 11). that a vaisya called Kanakavarman had, a few days back,
CANDRASRl. A woman, who, though actually in love told him that he (Kanakavarman ) had got two children,
with her husband enjoyed life with her paramour. one male and the other female from the forest, and taken
Candrasri is the heroine of a story narrated in the Katha- them to the Nalikera island. The very next day Candra-
saritsagara to prove that the interest married women take svaml, along with a vaisya called Visnuvarman arrived
in clandestine relationship is only due to fleeting temp- at the Nalikera island, and on enquiry they were told
tations. Candrasri was the wife of a vaisya called Bala- that Kanakavarman, with the children had left for
varman, who lived in the city of Pratisthana. One day, Ka^aha island. They then went to Kataha island only
looking out through the windows in her house she saw to be told that Kanakavarman had gone to Karpura
the very handsome vaisya youth called Sllahara and island. With another Vaisya Candrasvami landed on the
great desire for him. She brought him secretly to
felt
Karpura island to no purpose. After thus going to the
the house of her companion and satisfied her desire. Suvarna and Sirhhala islands too Candrasvami met
When their meeting became a routine affair her relations Kanakavarman at Citrakutapura. Kanakavarman
and servants knew about it. And, her husband alone was showed the children Candrasvami, but they were not
to
unaware of it. Once he became ill with severe fever. his. He burst into tears, and returned from Citrakuta-
Even while he was in his death-bed Candrasri continued He passed on his way back many a temple and
pura.
her affair with the paramour. When one day she was
city and at dusk reached a big forest. He satisfied his
with her paramour thus, she was told that her husband
hunger by eating some roots and fruits, and got upon
was no more. At once she took leave of him, returned a tree and sat on the top of it. It was mid-night, yet
home and committed suicide by jumping into the funeral
sleep did not oblige him. Then he saw a matrsangha
pyre of the husband. (Kathasaritsagara, Saktiyasolam- (a group of women ) consisting of Narayani and others
baka, Taraiiga 2). come and dance at the foot of the tree. Narayani saw
CANDRASVA (M). Son of King Kuvalayasva of the Candrasvami and after the dance was over and her
Iksvaku dynasty. He had two brothers called Drdhagva companions had left the place Narayani called him down
and Kapilasva. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 24). from the tree and gave him a flower. And, according
CANDRASVAMI. A brahmin, who got back his life by to the advice of Narayani the next day morning Candra-
worshipping Surya. He stayed with his wife, Devamatl svami went to Tarapura where, accidentally he got into
in Kamalapura ruled by King Kamalavarman. A son the house of Anantasvaml, minister of the kingdom, and,
called Mahipala was born to him, and at the time of the for food, repeated vedic hymns. The minister invited him
birth of the child a celestial voice declared that Mahipala for meals, and there he saw Mahipala and Candravatl.
would become King. A few years later a daughter called He placed the flower presented by Narayani on Mahl-
Candramati also was born to Candrasvami. pala's nose whereupon the children recognised him,
CANDRAVALOKA 176 CANDRAVAMSA
their father. The people celebrated it as a happy day. Dhrtavrata and Atiratha.
Vijaya Satyakarman
King Taravarman gave his daughter, VasumatI, in Karna was and father of Vrsasena.
Atiratha's foster son
marriage to Mahipala along with half his kingdom. 3) Puru. Descended from Puru were: Janamejaya
They went to Kamalapura and returned with their Pracinvan Pravira Namasyu Vitabhaya Sundu
mother. All of them spent their days very happily at Bahuvidha Samyati Rahovadi and RaudrasVa.
Tarapura. (Kathasaritsagara, Alarikaravati Laihbaka, Raudrasva married MisrakeSI. They had ten sons, viz.
Taraiiga 6 ) .
Rksayu Krsayu Sannatayu Ghrtayu Citayu
CANDRAVALOKA. A King of Citrakujanagara. Sthandilayu Dharmayu Sammitayu Rtayu and
When once the King in the course of a hunting expedition Matinara. Matinara begot two sons (a) Pratiratha and (b)
came to the bank of a river tired and done up he saw Sindhuratha.
there the very beautiful lady, Indivaraprabha, daughter a) Pratiratha.From Pratiratha was born Kanva and
of Maharsi Kanva by Menaka. Having fallen in love from him Mcdhatithi.
with each other they went to the asrama of the maharsi Sindhuratha. He had three sons, Dusyanta Pra-
b)
where, at his instance, Candravaloka took the pledge not vira and Samanta, and Bharata (Vitatha) was born to
to kill animals in future, and Kanva married his
daugh- Dusyanta of Sakuntala. From Bharata were descended
ter to the King. On their way back to the
palace the the following Suhotra Suhota Gala Garda
:
couple went to sleep on the banks of a pool which be- Suketu and Brhatksatra, who had four sons: Nara
longed to a Brahmaraksas, who caught hold of them, Mahavlra Garga and Hasti. And, Nara begot Sarh-
but released them on condition that they gave him in krti and he begot Rantideva and Kuru. A son called
their stead a brahmin boy aged seven. Thus they re-
Papaksaya was born to Mahavlra. Garga begot (sani.
turned to Citrakuta and told about the incident to And it was Hasti who founded Haslhinapura. He became
minister Sumati. As advised by Sumati an idol in gold the family progenitor. Hasti had three sons, Purumidha
equal in size to a brahmin boy aged seven was made and Ajamidha and Dvimidha. The King called Vipra
a proclamation was issued that the golden idol would was the son of Purumidha.
be given to him who, in return, give a brahmin boy
seven years old. A brahmin boy was got, and he was Ajamidha, the second son of Hasti had three sons, (a)
Rksa (b) Brhadisu and (c) Nlla. Their descendants
given to the Brahmaraksas. (Kathasaritsagara Sasarika- are mentioned below.
vati Lambaka, Tarariga 27).
CANDRAVAMSA. A a) flkfa. Rksa begot Sarhvarana and from
royal dynasty the kings of which
ruled India for a long time. Since the founding father Sarhvarana was born Kuru. From Kuru originated the
of the dynasty was Candra all the kings in the dynasty Kuru dynasty. Kuru had four sons :
(Al ) Pariksit,
came to be called Candra varhsaraja. (For Candra's (A2) Sudhanus, (A3) Jahnu and (A4) Nisada. Our
birth see Pururavas). A chronological list of the kings of the four Sudhanus and Jahnu became family progeni-
tors.
of this dynasty is given infra.
Descended from Candra thus, Budha Pururavas (A2) Sudhanus. The following were descended from
Ayus Nahusa. Nahusa had two sons, Ayati and him in order Suhotra Cyavana Krti Upari-
:
Yayati. Yayati had three sons: Druhyu, Anudruhyu caravasu Brhadratha and Jarasandha. Jarasandha had
and Puru by his wife Sarmistha, and two sons, Yadu and four sons Soma Sahadeva Turya and Srutasru.
:
Turvasu by his wife Devayani. The genealogy of each (A3 ) Jahnu. From Jahnu were descended - Suratha :
dama Mlecchas.
Pracetas Balhika. Santanu was also called Mahabhisak. And,
2) Anudruhyu -Three sons, Sabhanara, Caksus and
: he had two wives, Gariga and Satyavatl. From Gang:!,
Paroksa were born to Anudruhyu. Sabhanara begot was born Bhisma; of Satyavatl, before her marriage,
Kalanara, and he Srnjaya. Srnjaya had four sons :
was born Vyasa by Paras' ara. Satyavatl had two sons,
(a) Janamejaya, (b) Mahamanas, (c) Uslnara and (d) Citrarigada and Vicitravirya by Santanu. From Vyasa
Titiksa. Uginara and Titiksa proved to be family pro- were born Dhrtarastra, Pandu, and Vidura, and from
genitors. Their genealogy is given below :
Dhrtarastra the Kauravas. Kunti and Madri, wives of
c) Usinara. Uslnara had five sons Sibi, Vena, Krmi,
: Pandu, together got from the devas five sons, viz. Dhar-
Usi and Darpa of whom Sibi begot five sons: Bhadra maputra, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva.
Suvira Kekaya Vrsadarpa and Kapotaroma, and Dharmaputra had two sons, Dcvaka and Prativindhya.
from Kekaya was born the Kicakas. To Bhima was born of Hidimbi Ghatotkaca. Satanika
d) Titikfa. Descended from Titiksa were KrSad- :
was born of Renumati to Nakula. Arjuna's descendants
ratha Homa Sutapas and Bali, and Bali had seven were Abhimanyu Pariksit Candrapida Satyakarna
:
CARUDESI^A II. (See Candrasena). CATURASYA. A heroic asura. Once he fell in love
CARUDHI. A mountain near the Mahameru. There with Rambha, and on his request Svayamprabha,
are twenty mountains around the Meru, viz., Kaiiga, Rambha's attendant, won over her mistress to the asura.
Kuraga, KuSumbha, Vikankata, Trikuta, Sisira, Patari- The asura, Rambha and Svayamprabha then shifted
ka, Rucaka, Nila, Nisadha, Sitivasa, Kapila, fsankha, their residence to a beautiful palace built in south India
Vaidurya, Carudhi, Harhsa, Rsabha, Naga, Kalanjara by Maya for Caturasya. But, Indra who felt Rambha's
and Narada. (Devibhagavata, Astama Skandha). absence badly came down to earth, killed Caturasya
CARUGUPTA. Son of Sri Krsna by Rukmini. Pradyu- and took Rambha back with him. Indra cursed Svayam-
mna, Carudesna, Sudesna, Carudeha, Sucaru, Caru- prabha to remain on earth. And, he told her that she
gupta, Bhadracaru, Carucandra, Aticaru and Caru should welcome and treat well the monkeys who would
were the ten sons of Rukmini. She had also a daughter be arriving there in their quest of Sita, and then she
called Carumati. (Bhagavata Dasama Skandha). As would get redemption from the curse. The above facts
distinct from the Bhagavata the Mahabharata, speaks were revealed by Svayamprabha herself while welcom-
of three more sons to Rukmini, viz., Caruyasas, Caru- ing the monkeys. (Kampa Ramayana).
vesa and CaruSravas. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, CATURDASIMAHATMYA. The puranas declare
Verse 59.). that worshipping Siva on Caturdas'i day will satisfy all
CARUMATI. (See Carugupta). desires. There is a story in one of the puranas support-
CARUMATSYA. A brahmavadi son of ViSvamitra. ing this claim. (See Kumudvati).
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 59). CATURDAMSTRA. An attendant of Subrahmanya.
CARUNETRA. A celestial woman, who spent her time He always showed great devotion towards Brahmins.
Kubera's assembly.
in (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 62).
Verse 10).
10, CATURIKA. A harlot about whom the following story
CARUSlRSA. A maharsi, who belonged to Alarhba- is told in
Kathasaritsagara.
gotra. A friend of Indra, the maharsi once spoke to Once a poor Brahmin got a piece of gold as Pratigraha
Dharmaputra about the greatness of Siva. (M.B. (fee or daksina for performing a religious rite). While
Anusasana Parva, Chapter 18, Verse 5). he was perplexed not knowing what to do with the gold,
CARUSRAVAS. (See Carugupta). a Vi{a advised him to go on tour with the money got by
CATURMASYA 179 CATURUPAYAM
selling the gold. The poor Brahmin did not even know flowers, and then the worshipper will become very
how to go on tour. Then the Vita advised him to visit a happy. (Agni Purana, Chapter 179) Also see Vinayaka
.
him. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathapitha Larhbakam, Ta- end the friendship subsisting between people, to create
raiiga 6). dissension and to make the parties quarrel with each
CATURMASYA. A penance which continues
(Vrata) other. He who is falsely praised, he who does not desire
for fourmonths. During Vedas are to be
this period, the wealth or welfare, he who has been invited to come and
studied with pure heart. The Pandavas did this penance then insulted, traitor to king, he who has been exorbi-
at Gaya. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 95). tantly taxed, the angry one, the honourable one, the
CATURMUKHALI&GA. A Brahma linga installed on insulted, the unreasonably forsaken one, he who har-
the northern bank of Sarasvati by Brahma. Brahma, bours hatred in his mind, the pacified one, one whose
to start with, created animate and inanimate objects, wealth and wife have been taken away or stolen, he
and was thinking about further creation when a beauti- who has not been respected though deserving of respect
ful girl, born of herself appeared before him. Brahma if such people are in one's opposite camp, suspicion
became enamoured of that girl and showed an unbe- should be raked up among them and thus division crea-
coming passion. As a punishment for this sin one of his ted in their ranks. If subordinate chieftains, and forest
heads broke. Thus broken-headed Brahma, went to tribes commit offences they should be brought round
the Sthanutlrtha, which washes off all sins, on the north- by the use of sama and bheda upayas.
ern bank of Sarasvati and installed his own linga, known 4) Danda. Dandopaya is of three kinds, viz, killing,
as the Caturmukhalinga. This installation of linga denuding of wealth, and inflicting pain on the body or
redeemed him from sins. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 49). torture. Danda has two other forms, prakasa (open)
CATURTHlVRATA. A fast undertaken so that one and aprakasa (secret). Those who have become objects
may be happy for one year, may achieve all desires and of hatred to all people should be subjected to prakas"a-
attain Sivaloka. While observing this fast one should danda. People, whose killing the world will detest,
worship Ganapati on the fourth day after New Moon should not be killed openly, but only secretly. Enemies
(Caturthi) in the month of Makara (February-March). should be killed with weapons etc. Brahmins should not
Next day the fast should be broken by eating cooked be killed. Friends and allies should not be subjected
rice and oil seeds. The Mulamantra of Ganapati is to danda; friends, who are made objects of danda will
'gam svaha'; hrdayadisadarigas beginning with 'gam'. wither away like worm-eaten trees. The King, who
'Agacchatikaya' is the avahana mantra and 'Gaccha- possesses the three powers (of wealth, army and people's
tikaya' the visarjana mantra. Ganapati should be support ) and is fully conscious of the time and environ-
worshipped with mantras ending with 'tuhkaya' and mental factors should annihilate enemies by the instru-
beginning with 'gakara' as also with offering of sandal ment of danda. Evil people should be defeated by
paste, rice balls etc. "Orii Mahotka.ya.ya vidmahe vakra- danda itself.
tundaya dhimahi tanno danti pracodayat" is the Ganesa The upaya maya consists in practising deception by
gayatri mantra. He or she who performs the Caturthi magic or other yogic powers. The powers can be
vrata will attain Sivaloka. If Ganapati is worshipped acquired by the worship of the idols of certain Devatas.
on a Tuesday which is also Caturthi the devotee will People who employ go about at night in various dis-
get all his desires satisfied. Caturthi occurring in Mina guises. They disguise themselves as beautiful women or
( March-April )
is called AvighnacaturthI, and that day even as animals. They also deceive people by creating
fasting should be in the night. On Caturthi in April- illusions of clouds, fire or lightning. For instance, Bhima
May Ganapati should be worshipped with damanaka killed Kicaka by going to him in the guise of a woman.
CATURVARNYAM 180 CAVE T UPATA
1
Not to dissuade people who indulge in unjustifiable of Brahmin children. Upanayana (wearing of the sacred
grief,war etc. is the principal aim of the upaya called thread) should be done when the child is eight years
upeksa. Hidimbi gave up his brother Hidimba by old. The maunji (girdle around the waist) to be worn
practising Upeksa. Next is the Indrajalopaya (magic). after upanayana should be made either of munja grass
For example, to create illusions of clouds, darkness, rain, or of the bark of trees. Brahmin brahmacarins should
fire, and other magic in order to instil fear among wear hides, and when they beg for alms the sentence
troops of the enemy etc. To scare the enemy is the aim should commence with the word 'Bhavati', e.g. "Bhavati,
oflndrajala. (For details of Caturupayas see Kanika). bhiksarh dehi). The Brahmin can marry in all the castes,
(Agni Purana, Chapter 241). but he shall perform ritual only along with the wife of
CATURVARtfYAM. (The four Castes, Classes). his own caste.
1 ) General. The puranas tell that Brahma created the ii) Kfatriya.
To give gifts according to rules, study
four castes like Brahmins, Ksatriyas, Vaisyas and Sudras Vedas and perform yajnas form the duty of the Ksatriya.
and assigned to them duties and rules of procedure. To look after and take care of good people and to punish
2) Origin. Brahma got ready for the work of Crea- evil-doers are his especial duties. Names of Ksatriya
tion, concentrating his mind on the universal soul, the children should take the suffix "Varma". After upana-
embodiment of Truth. And, the first to be born from his yana the child should wear tiger skin. He should carry
face were people with sublime qualities, and them he a danda (rod ) of the Arayal (peepal ) tree. When the
called Brahmins. Then emerged from his chest people Ksatriya brahmacarin begs for alms the word 'bhavati'
in whom the heroic or militant qualities preponderated. should be used in the middle of the sentence, e.g. "Bhiksarh
(Rajasa). Them the Creator named Ksatriyas. Then bhavati dehi". The Ksatriya can marry in the other
from his thighs were born people in whom rajas and castes, except the Brahmin. At the time of wedding
the
tamas preponderated, and they were called Vaisyas. Ksatriya woman should hold an arrow in her hand.
And, lastly Brahma brought forth from his feet another Agriculture, protection of cows and
trade
Hi) Vaiiya.
sect of people, and as tamas (darkness, cultural darkness) are the special duties of the Vaisya. Children born of
preponderated in them they were named Sudras. The Brahmin women to Vaisyas are called Vaidehikas.
system of four castes is called Caturvarnyam. (Visnu Names of Vaisya children should have the suffix 'gupta'
Purana, Part 1, Chapter 6). after them. After upanayana the Vaisya brahmacarin
3) Code of conduct. Ahirhsa (non-violence), Satyavada should wear sheep's skin. He should carry a danda made
(speaking truth), Bhutadaya (love for all living beings), of a branch of the Kuvala tree. The Vaisya may have a
Tlrthaseva (resort to holy places), Dana (gifts), Brahma- wife of his own caste and one of the Sudra caste. At
carya (celibacy), Vimatsaratva (absence of malice), the time of wedding the Vaisya woman should hold a
Service of Devas, Brahmins and Gurus (elders), to attend cane in her hand.
to all dharmas (duties), Pitrpuja (worship of elders) iv) Sudra. Service to the Brahmin and architecture
eternal loyalty to King, to accomplish objects in con- form the duties of the Sudra. Children born to Ksatriya
formity with the injunction of the Sastras, not to commit women by Sudras are called Pulkasas. Children born
cruel deeds, Titiksa (forbearance, to put up with to Brahmin women by Sudras are called Candalas,
equanimity the pair of opposites such as pleasure and and sons born to Sudras by Vaisya women are called
pain, heat and cold), belief in God these codes of con- Ayogavas.
duct are common to all Castes and in all the four stations The Candala's is to hang criminals sentenced
profession
in life. Now, the special codes for each of the four to death, and by women. The Pulkasa must
to live
castes. live by hunting. Ayogava is to act on the stage and live
1 ) Brahmins. To perform and get performed Yajnas, by architecture. The Candala should live outside
the
to study and to teach the Vedas, to give gifts and to village. The Candala has a right to take the clothes on
receive gifts these form the dharma (duties) of the corpses. He shall not
have any physical contacts with
Brahmin. Brahmins take their second birth (dvija) the others. He will attain salvation if he died in the
on the upanayana (wearing of the sacred thread) . course of protecting others. The suffix 'dasa' should be
The caste of the mother is the caste of the child. But added to his name. He shall marry only from his own
children born to Brahmins of their non-Brahmin wives caste.(Agni Purana, 4 Chapters from 151).
are not Brahmins. Children born of a Brahmin woman CATURVEDA. One of the Saptapitrs (seven manes).
to a Sudra are called Candalas. Sons born of Brahmin Vairajas, agnisvattas, garhapatyas, somapas, Ekasrrigas,
women to Ksatriyas are called Sutas, and sons born of a Caturvedas and Kalas are the seven manes. (M. B.
Brahmin woman to a Vaisya are called Vaidehikas. Sabha Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 47).
The Brahmin shall not adopt the profession of the other CATURYUGA. (See Manvantara).
castes. The
twice-born are, however, allowed in certain CATUSKARI^I. One of the female attendants of Skanda-
circumstances, the profession of agriculture, protection deva.' Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 25).
(M'.B.
of cows, commerce and kusida (to lend money on inte-
shall not trade in gorasa (milk and other
CATUSPATHARATA. A female attendant of Skanda.
rest). But, he Verse 27).
(M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46,
cow products) lavana (salt) and flesh. If he be an
the Brahmin may till the earth, cut medi- CATVARAVASINl. A woman attendant of Skanda.
agriculturist, Verse
cinal plants and destroy pests. But, he must purify the (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, 12).
soul by performing yajnas and worshipping Devas. CAVETFUPATA. (CAVERU). (Pata = army).
The should be ploughed with eight oxen attached to
soil A particular division of the army which in olden days
the plough. He may sustain himself either with Rta used to come forward to lay down their lives in the
or Amrta (food got not by beg- service of the country. When defeat in war was almost
(food got by begging)
The suffix "Sarma" should be added to the names certain for their king an army division under royal
ging).
CEDI 181 CERIPPU
leadership was formed of heroes, who took their last He lived for the Pandavas and attained Vira Svarga
leave of their homes and people. The soldiers left their (Heaven for the brave) in the great battle.
homes with their head and eyebrows shaved, and people 2) Important events. (1) Cekitana was present at the
gave them a hearty send-off. Either victory or death svayamvara of Draupadl. (Chapter 171, Sloka 18,
in battlefield was their slogan. This system originated Udyoga Parva).
in Kerala. Imitating Kerala, Turkey and Egypt formed 2) When the Pandavas entered the hall constructed by
their own
division of Cavettupata in the 15lh century. Maya for the first time Cekitana was with them.
The Cavettupata of Turkey called the Janissary was (Sloka 27, Chapter 4, Sabha Parva) .
formed out of poor Christians captured in war, and that 3) At the time of the Rajasuya he approached Dharma-
of Egypt called Mamaluk was formed out of slaves. putra and presented him with an arrow-holder. (Sloka 9,
But, the Cavettupata of ancient Kerala was self-orga- Chapter 53, Sabha Parva).
nised out of burning love for their king and country. 4) On the first day of the great battle this great archer
The families of those warriors of the pata who died in wrestled with Susarma. (Sloka 60, Chapter 45, Bhisma
fight were allotted royal favours. Even before, in the 14th Parva).
century A.D. there existed in Kerala this system of 5) At the Kuruksetra in the combat with Krpacarya
Cavettupata. From A.D. 1090 to 1111 A.D. many fierce both of them fainted. (Sloka 31, Chapter 84, Bhisma
wars were fought between Kerala and the Cola country, Parva).
and it was perhaps during this period that this system of 6) He wrestled with Citrasena. (Sloka 8, Chapter 110
fighting came into vogue. Certain inscriptions of the Bhisma Parva).
period go to prove that Ramavarmakulasekhara Cakra- 7) Cekitana fought with Anuvinda in the Kuruksetra
varti who ruled Kerala during the above period drove battle. (Sloka 48, Chapter 14, Drona Parva).
out the Colas from Quilon and captured places up to 8) Dronacarya defeated Cekitana in the great battle
Kottar. (Sloka 68, Chapter 125, Drona Parva).
Foreign writers have also referred to the Cavettupata. 9) Duryodhana killed Cekitana in the great battle
"Amouces" and "Amochi" used in the 'Rise of Portu- (Sloka 31, Chapter 12, Salya Parva).
guese power in India' indicate the Cavettupata. "In 10) When Vyasa by his yogic powers invited the spirits
the war between Cochin and Calicut in 1504 three of all the dead warriors on the banks of the
Gahga the
of Cekitana was also there. (Sloka 12, Chapter 32
princes of Cochin were killed, one of them being the spirit
nephew of the ruling monarch. On his death 200 ASramavasika Parva).
Cavettu warriors who formed the body-guard of the CENIB (U). (COPPER). The sperm of Lord Siva
nephew rushed to the field after shaving their heads which was dropped into the river Ganga developed into
and eyebrows and killed all the enemies they saw." form and gave birth to Subrahmanya.
Along with
CEDI. A king of the Yaduvarhsa. Subrahmanya came out from Gariga gold and silver
Brahma- and from its heat steel and copper. From the dirt came
1) Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu:
Candra Budha Pururavas out tin. (Sarga 37, Valmiki Ramayana).
Atri Ayus Nahusa
Yayati Yadu Krostha Vrajinavan
-- Svahi CENKAWARAJA. See Jambukesvara.
Ruseka - - Citraratha Sasabindu Prthusravas
CENNASU NAMBUTIRI. Cennas Narayanan
Dharma Rucaka - Jyamagha- Vidarbha Nambutirippad was born and bred up in Kerala. He was
Romapada born in Vanned in Ponnani Taluk in the year 1428 A.D.
Bhadru Krta U.sika Cedi. The Cedi dynasty begins
from Cedi and the land ruled over by Cedi came to be His father was Ravi Nambutirippad of Bhargava gotra.
known as
Besides his book 'Tantrasamuccaya' he has written a
Cedirajya.
book 'Manavavastulaksana'. This book is called 'Manu-
2) Other details regarding King Cedi.
syalayacandrika' also.
1
) Once Uparicaravasu conqueredt his land. (Sloka 2, CERA. (A king of serpents). See under Ruru.
Chapter 63, Adi Parva). CERIPPU. (FOOTWEAR). There is a story in
2) Karenumati, wife of Nakula, was a princess of Mahabharata of how Cerippu and Kuta (footwear and
Cedi rajya. (Sloka 79, Chapter 95, Adi Parva). umbrella) were born. Once the heat of the Sun be-
3) Once Sisupala
reigned over this country. After his came unbearable to Jamadagni and enraged at this
death his son Dhrsfaketu was crowned king. (Sloka 36, the sage started sending arrows against the Sun. His
Chapter 45, Sabha. Parva). wife Renuka was supplying him with arrows. When a
4) During the period of Nala, Cedirajya was ruled set of arrows was finished Renuka brought another set.
by king Subahu. Damayanti lived in his palace very This continued without break and the Sun began to
comfortably. (Sloka 44, Chapter 65, Vana Parva). feel the attack.Unable to do anything against the sage
5) Dhrstaketu, a king of Cedi, came to the help of the the the head and foot of Renuka on her
Sun heated way
Pandavas with an aksauhini (an army of 21870 chariots, to supply the arrows so fiercely that Renuka fell down
equal number of elephants, 65610 horses and 10930 under a banyan tree exhausted. When she became well
infantrymen.). (Sloka 7, Chapter 19, Udyoga Parva). enough to walk she took the arrows to her husband who
6) The Ksatriya warriors of this state helped Sri was very angry for her being late. She then explained
Krsna in many ways. (Sloka 1 Chapter 28, Udyoga
]
,
to him how because of the extreme heat of the sun she
Parva). fell down on the way. Jamadagni then started with
7) Cedi was counted as one of the prominent kingdoms increased fury his shower of arrows and the Sun in the
of ancient Bharata. (Sloka 40, Chapter 9, Bhisma disguise of a Brahmin approached and advised him that it
Parva ) . was not possible to strike down the Sun because he was
CEKITANA. (SATVATA, VAR l^EYA). a swift-mover in the sky and so it was better to withdraw
1 General information. An archer of the Vrsni from that attempt. But Jamadagni said the Sun would
) dynasty.
CH 182 CIRAKARl
be stationary for some time at midday and then he would who ruled over Vijayanagar during the period
Veiikata
hit the Sun down. When the Sun found that Jamadagni 1586 A.D. to 1614 A.D. His one great work is 'Raghava-
would never drop his attempt he accepted defeat and yadavapandavlya'. There are three Kandas in it and
presented Jamadagni with a pair of sandals and an one Kanda each is devoted to the story of Sri Rama,
umbrella to protect against the heat from below and Sri Krsiia and the Pandavas.
above. From that day onwards footwear and umbrella CIKSURA. War minister of Mahisasura. Tamra was
came into vogue. his finance minister, Asiloma prime minister, Bidala
The practice of presenting sandals and umbrella is foreign minister, Ubharka Commander-in-chief, Sukra,
being carried down from generation to generation and minister for education and Baskala, Trinetra and Kala-
even today it is being followed; these two are given as bandhaka consulting ministers. (Devi Bhagavata,
gifts on the 'Sraddha' day. (Chapters 95 and 96, Anusa-
Paiicama Skandha ) .
sana Parva, M.B. ) CIKURA. Son of Aryaka, the serpent king. Cikura had a
CH. This letter means a cut, amputation severance. son called Sumukha. Once Garuda ate Cikura for food.
(Chapter 348, Agni Purana). _(M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter "l20, Verse 23).
CHAGAMUKHA. Subrahnianya. He is here idolised ClNAR. People of China. It is believed that the Cinars
as one having a face like that of a goat. (Sloka 3, Chapter were born from the body of NandinI, the cow, during
228, Vana Parva). her fight with Visvamitra. (Sloka 38, Chapter 174,
CHANDODEVA. Sage Mataiiga was known in his Adi Parva). These low-caste people paid homage to
previous birth by this name. (See Mataiiga). Yudhisthira and gave him many presents. (Sloka 31,
CHATRAKETU. The second son born to Laksmana Chapter 51, Sabha Parva).
of his wife Urmila. The eldest son was Taksaka. Sri CINTAMAI^I. A diamond. This was salvaged from the
Rama after his return from the exile established a ocean of milk along with other precious items like
Kingdom called Agati on the eastern sea-shore and Airavata, Uccaihsravas, Kalpavrksa, Kaustubha,
crowned Taksaka as the King of that place. the wes- On Candra, Apsaras, Mahalaksmi, Tara, and Ruma.
tern side after subjugating the mlechhas (low-caste (Yuddha Kanda, Kampa Ramayana).
non-Hindu tribe) Sri Rama established another kingdom CIRADATA. There was a king called Ciradata in the
called Candramati and installed Chatraketu as the King country called Cirapura. Though himself a good man he
of that country. (Uttara Ramayana). was surrounded by bad advisers. Once a foreigner,
CHATRAVATl. There was in ancient Bharata a coun- Prasaiiga, came along with two friends to the palace to
try called Ahicchatra. ChatravatI was the capital of that see the King. But due to the bad advice of his courtiers
State. The country itself is also known as ChatravatI. the King did not care to see them even. For five years
(Sloka 21, Chapter 165, Adi Parva). they stayed there without even getting a look at the
CHAYA. A substitute of Samjna, daughter of Visva- King. One day the only son of the King died. All the
karma. Samjna got from Surya three children, Manu, courtiers gathered round the child and pretended to
Yama and Yam! The heat of Surya, her husband,
. be greatly grieved. Prasaiiga and his friends also came
became unbearable to her and so she created a substitute to the scene. They saw the king and spoke to him thus :
in her exact form and leaving her to look after Surya, "For five years you have not cared either to see or talk to
her husband, she left the place and went to her father. us. We were cherishing a hope that at least your son
Surya did not know of this replacement and taking her would give us a better treatment when he grew old and
to be Samjna he produced three children by her, Sani, became King. We were living here on that hope and now
Savarnamanu and Tapatl. Chaya loved her sons more that hope also has been shattered and so we are leaving
and this made Yama angry and he raised his legs to the place this instant." The King was surprised to hear
strike her when Chaya cursed that Yama's legs would fall that they were prepared even to wait for his son to
off from his body. Yama complained to his father and he become the King and gave them very many presents.
amended the curse and said that only some flesh from (TaraiigaS, Alaiikaravatl Lambaka, Kathasaritsagara).
his limbs would fall to the ground and that flesh would ClRAKA. A place of habitation in ancient India. Once
serve as food to the germs in the earth. Yama would Kama conquered this land and from then onwards they
escape from further injury. After consoling his son he started paying tribute to Duryodhana. (Sloka 19,
turned towards Chaya. The anger of Surya frightened Kama Parva).
Chapter 8,
her and she told him everything. Surya then divorced CIRAKARl. A son of Gautama Maharsi. He used to
her and brought back Samjna. For details see Samjna. think deeply before doing any deed and so he earned the
(Chapter 9 of Harivariisa; Chapter 2, Aihsa 3, Visnu- name Cirakari.
purana). Once the sage Gautama found out proof against the
CHAYAGRAHI ."I. A demoness who harassed Hanu- chastity of his own wife and enraged at this commanded
man on his flight to Lanka from the Bharata shore. his son Cirakari to chop off the head of the latter's
She, by a trick of the shade obstructed his path and mother. Giving this command Gautama went into the
Hanuman realising the danger killed her by a blow forest and Cirakari in obedience to his father's order
with his left foot and sprang forward. (Sundara Kanda, came before his mother, weapon in hand. He did not
Kampa Ramayana ) . kill her immediately but pondered over the consequences
CHAYASUTA. Sani (Saturn). of the deed. Matricide is a great sin, he mused. Then
CIBUKA. A low-caste born of NandinI, the cow, during her again who would be there to look after father if mother
fight with Visvamitra. (Sloka 38, Chapter 174, died. Perhaps his father, when he cools down, might
Adi Parva). regret his command and come back repentant. Thus
CIDAMBARA (SITAMBARA). A Sanskrit poet of 16th he was sitting undecided when Gautama returned full
century A.D. He was a poet in the court of emperor of remorse for his hasty order. On seeing his wife
CIRANJIVI 183 GITAL
alivehe was greatly relieved and immensely happy and So saying he embraced the King and taking a powder
he blessed Cirakarl. (Chapter 266, Santi Parva). from his body smeared it on the sword and asked Jiva-
CIRANjIVl. The name of a crow, a character in the hara to strike again. This time very easily Jivahara
'Pancatantra'. (See under Meghavarna). severed the head from the body of Nagarjuna. The
CIRANTAKA. A son of Garuda. (Sloka 1, Chapter King was greatly aggrieved and he renounced all and
101, Udyoga Parva). went to the forest and led a pious life.
CIRAVASAS I. A Ksatriya King born as a rebirth of Cirayus' son Jivahara became King. But Nagarjuna's
an asura Krodhavas'a. (Sloka 61, Chapter 67, Adi sons killed him and his mother died of grief. (Taranga,
Parva). Ratnaprabha Lambaka, Kathasaritsagara).
CIRAVASAS II. A yaksa. He stayed in the court of ClRI.yi. A river. It was on the banks of this river that
Kubera worshipping him. (Sloka 10, Chapter 10, Vaivasvata Manu clad in bark-skin and with knotted
Sabha Parva). hair did penance. (Sloka 6, Chapter 187, Vana Parva).
CIRAYUS. An ancient King of the country Cirayu. CITAL. (Termites). Cital has got its own place in the
Nagarjuna was a minister of this King. Nagarjuna knew puranas. Devi Bhagavata has the following story about
the secret of 'Rasayanasiddhi'. Once Nagarjuna pre- the origin of it.
pared a medicine for himself and the King which if Mahavisnu once looking at the face of LaksmI laughed
taken would keep them eternally young. They took without any apparent reason. LaksmI, thinking that
medicine accordingly. Visnu was laughing at her and that he had an eye on
After some days a child of the minister died. Grief- some other woman more beautiful than her lost her
stricken Nagarjuna decided to prepare Amrta which temper and cursed Visnu that his head would be severed
would eradicate death from this world. He had pre- from his body.
pared it but there remained one more medicine to be No sooner was the curse pronounced than the asuras came
added to this. The auspicious moment to add the same in batches fully armed and challenged Visnu to war.
was to come only after five days and Nagarjuna waited. Single-handed the Lord fought the asuras with one bow.
The devas were frightened. If Amrta was made avail- The fight did not end though it continued for thousands
able on earth men would become Devas. Devas could of years. Visnu felt tired and decided to rest awhile.
not bear this and so they sent the Asvimkumaras to He planted one end of the untied bow on the ground,
the earth to persuade Nagarjuna to desist from his work rested his chin on the other and sat in Padmasana.
of preparing Amrta. Further they informed him that his Being very tired the Lord remained asleep for a long
dead child was living happily in heaven. He agreed to time in this posture.
stop his work. About this time the devas made preparations to perform
After some time Cirayus crowned his son Jivahara as the a yajfia. All the devas except Mahavisnu attended that
heir-apparent. Overjoyed Jivahara ran to his mother yajna. Since he was the master of yajnas performed for
Dhanapara to give her the glad tidings. Dhanapara purposes of the devas they could not begin it in his
told her son thus: "My
child, why should you be so absence. So, Brahma and others went in search
happy to think that you have become the heir-apparent. of Visnu to Vaikuntha. But he was not to be found there.
Several sons of your father had already become yuvarajas Then Brahma and others found out with their
and died before becoming King. Your father has taken eyes of knowledge where Visnu was and they went to
a medicine from Nagarjuna and that will keep him the place where he was sleeping. They waited there
eternally young. None of his sons can aspire to be the for a long time, yet Visnu did not awake from sleep.
King. Your father is now eight hundred years old and Then Brahma hit at a plan to awaken Visnu. It was
will live long. of you will become yuvarajas but
Many to create citals (termites) to eat the end of the bow.
not the King. therefore suggest a way to tide over
I will When they had eaten away the end of the bow
this difficulty.
Everyday in the afternoon Nagarjuna planted on the ground the cord binding the two ends
would come outside the palace and enquire whether of it would break, the bow would straighten up and the
anybody is in need of anything. At that time he would speedy movement of it would awaken Visnu.
give whatever was asked for. It is an opportunity when According to this plan Brahma created citals, but his
you can ask for his head. When Nagarjuna is dead your other plans were not acceptable to the citals. They
father would either die of argued that the advantage of awakening the Lord from
grief or go to the forests.
Then you can become the King." sleep would go only to the devas, while its sin would
Jivahara was pleased to hear this suggestion and he went fall upon them.
that after-noon to the palace of
Nagarjuna and when They argued,
Nagarjuna as usual came out with his query Jivahara Nidrabhangah kathachedo
asked for his head. Most willingly Nagarjuna offered Dampatyoh prltibhedanam /
his head to be chopped off. But the effect of the medicine Sis umatrvibhedas ca
made even the strongest cut by the sword ineffective. Brahmahatyasamam smrtam //*
Jivahara lost many swords without Nagarjuna getting Brahma conceded the justness of this argument and
even a small scratch on his neck. The hubbub brought agreed that, in future, a part of the result of yajnas
the King to the scene and he immediately asked Nagar- shall go to citals. It was after this that havis (sa crificial
juna to withdraw his head but Nagarjuna refused saying, offering) which, in the course of being submitted to the
"Oh, King, in my ninetynine previous births I have fire falls on the sides of the pit of fire became the share
offered my head like this and please do not ask me to of citals (termites). This promise of Brahma pleased the
desist from
making this offer for the hundredth time". the citals, and they did as was bidden by Brahma and
*To disturb one in sleep, to interrupt a story, to separate husband and wife as also mother and child from each other these things
are tantamount to Brahmahatya (killing of the brahmin).
CITAYU 184 CITRALEKHA II
CITRA IV. A hero from the Cedi Kingdom who fought CITRAKSA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra.
on the Pandava side against the Kauravas. Kama Bhimasena killed him in the great battle. (Drona Parva,
killed him. (M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter 56, Verse 46). Chapter 136).
CITRA. A celestial maiden. When once Asfavakra went CITRAKUNDAKA. (DlRGHALOCANA). One of the
to the court of Kubera this maiden gave a dance in Kauravas killed by Bhima. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
honour of his visit. (Sloka 44, Chapter 14, Anusasana Chapter 96, Verse 27).
Parva). CITRAKUTA. A mountain.
CITRABAHU (CITRAYUDHA). A son of Dhrtarastra. Renowned in the puranas, this mountain is on the banks
He was killed in war by Bhima. (M.B. Drona Parva, of the river, Mandakinl. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
Chapter 136, Verse 20). 85). It was here, at Citrakuta that Sri Rama, Sita
CITRABAl^A. (CITRA, CITRAKA). A son of Dhrta- and others lived for a period of time. It is said that
rastra. Bhima killed him in war. (M.B. Drona Parva, Rajalaksmi (royal wealth and welfare) will embrace
Chapter 137, Verse 27). those who fast on the Citrakuta after a bath in the
CITRABARHA. A son of Garuda. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Mandakini. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 26,
Chapter 101, Verse 12). Verse 29). This mountain is in Banda Zilla of the U.P.
CITRACAPA. (CITRA&AR7 SANA, SARASANA). in modern India.
One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra. (M.B. Adi Citrakuta is described in Cantos 56 and 94 of Valmlki
Parva, Chapter 67). Ramayana.
CITRADEVA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. He CITRALEKHA I. A celestial maiden. This maiden
loved brahmins deeply. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter came and danced in the assembly of the Pandavas once.
45, Verse 71). (Sloka 34, Chapter 9, Vana Parva, M.B.).'
CITRADHARMA. A king in ancient India. The asura CITRALEKHA II. A
companion of Usa daughter of ,
called Virupaksa was born again as Citradharman. the demon, Bana. She was a beautiful portrait painter.
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67). The Pandavas invited Usa once dreamt of Aniruddha, grandson of Krsna.
him to come and help them in the war. (M.B. Udyoga Even before knowing the identity of the idol of her dream
Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 13). Usa fell in love with him. Next day morning Citra-
CITRAGUPTA. A minister of Kala. (God of death). lekha gathered from the gloomy Usa details of her dream
His duty is to examine, after the death of men, a list of and Citralekha started making portraits of many known
the good and evil actions they had done while living. charming princes but Usa was not satisfied. She then
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 130). drew in her imagination a figure which was exactly like
CITRAKA (CITRA, CITRABA^A). A son of Dhrta- that of Aniruddha, the man of her dream. Usa was
rastra. Bhima killed him in the satisfied and it was through the cleverness of Chitralekha
great war. (M.B.
Drona Parva, Chapter 137). that Aniruddha was brought to Usa's room and
CITRAKETU I. An emperor, who remained childless Usa was able to marry Aniruddha. (See under 'Ani-
for a long time. At last a son was born to him
owing to ruddha').
CITRAMUKHA 185 CITRA&GADA
CITRAMUKHA. A sage. Though he was born a Vaisya, would get a son to keep their line unbroken. Accordingly
he became a brahmin and from there gradually rose allthe forefathers of Citravahana got a son each but
to the status of a brahmarsi. (Chapter 56, Anusasana when it came to the turn of the latter he got a girl
Parva, M.B.) instead.
CITRA5IGA I. (CITRA&GADA, SRUTANTAKA). Arjuna accidentally saw Citrangada and fell in love with
One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra. In the great her, and knowing that, the king received Arjuna in his
battle Bhlmasena killed him. (Sloka 11, Chapter 26, palace and requested Arjuna to marry his daughter.
Salya Parva ) .
Arjuna married her and the couple got a son named
CITRAjxIGA II. A warrior. In
the A?'vamedhayajna Babhruvahana. Promising them that he would come
performed by Sri Rama
Satrughna followed the sacri- back and take them to Hastinapura Arjuna continued
ficial horse and Citrariga blocked them on their way. his pilgrimage. (Chapters 219, 220, and 221, Adi
Satrughna killed him. (Chapter 27, Patala Kanda, Parva ) .
Padma Purana). 2 )
How Citrangada, came to Hastinapura. When after the
CITRA&GADA I. (CITRA&GA). See under Cit- great epic battle Dharmaputra conducted an Asva-
rariga I .
medhayajfia was Arjuna who led the sacrificial horse
it
CITRAKIGADA A
son of the Maharaja Santanu:
II. to the south. When
Arjuna came to Manalur he came
King Santanu of the Candra dynasty had two wives, against Babhruvahana who challenged him for a fight.
Ganga and Satyavati. Bhisma is the son born of Gaiiga; In the grim battle that ensued Arjuna fell dead by the
of Satyavati were born two sons, Citrangada and Vici- piercing arrows of Babhruvahana, his own son. At that
travlrya. They were very brave and learned. After time Ulupi and Citrangada came to the scene and
ruling his kingdom for a long period, living with Satya- seeing Arjuna lying dead, Ulupi brought the diamond,
vati and the three children Santanu passed away. Be- MrtasanjTvam, and placing it on Arjuna's face brought
cause Bhisma dedicated himself to a life of unbroken him back to life. (See Babhruvahana for details).
chastity Citrangada was crowned King. Once when he After this incident all of them, Citrangada, Ulupi and
went to the forest for hunting he met with a gandharva Babhruvahana went to Hastinapura along with Arjuna.
of the same name. Both did not like the other to keep (Chapters 79 to 81, AsVamedha Parva).
the same name and so a fight ensued. It was fought 3 )
Other details
in Kuruksetra and lasted for three years. In the end (1)Citrangada on reaching Hastinapura bowed down
Citrangada was killed. Bhlsma felt very sorry and after before KuntI and Pancali touching their feet and lived
asking Vicitravirya to perform the funeral rites crowned amicably with others like Subhadra. (Sloka 2, Chapter
him as King. (Devi Bhagavata, Prathama Skandha). 88, Asvamedha Parva).
CITRAKIGADA III. A gandharva. See under Citran- (2) Kunti, Subhadra and Pancali gave Citrangada
gada II. many diamonds as present. (Sloka 3, Chapter 88,
CITRA&GADA IV. One of the Kings who attended the As vamedha Parva ) .
svayarhvara of Draupadl. He might have been the King (3) Citrangada looked to the comforts of Gandhari
of either Kaliiiga or Dasarna because both these states as a servant-maid. (Sloka 23, Chapter 1, ASramavasika
were then ruled by a Citrangada, (Sloka 22, Chapter Parva ) .
185, Adi Parva). (4)Citrangada was one among the women who wept
CITRAKIGADA V. A king of Kaliiiga. Almost all the when at the fag end of their life Dhrtarastra, Gandhari
Kings of Bharata attended a svayarhvara once held at and Kunti started for Vanavasa (life in the forest).
the palace of this King. (Sloka 2, Chapter 4, Santi (Sloka 10, Chapter 15, Asramavasika Parva).
Parva ) .
(5) Citrangada was a beautiful woman having an
CITRAfvIGADA VI. A king of Davarna. He blocked the enchanting figure as that of a Madhuka flower. (Sloka
sacrificial horse sent out by Dharmaputra during the 11, Chapter 25, A:'ramavasika Parva).
Asvamcdhayajfta and Arjuna killed him. (Asvamedha (6) After the Mahaprasthana of the Pandavas Citran-
Parva, Chapter 83, Sloka 7). gada left for Manipur. (Sloka 18, Chapter 1, Maha-
CITRAJSIGADA VII. A deer. A character in the stories prasthanika Parva).
in the book 'Pancatantra Stories' (See B-2 in Panca- CITRA5IGADA III. Daughter of Visvakarma. Once
tantra ) . while she was bathing in a pond along with her compa-
CITRAJSIGADA I. A celestial maiden. Once this girl nions in the forest of Naimisa Prince Suratha, son of
gave a dance in the court of Kubera in honour of Sudeva, came that way. Seeing him Citrangada told her
Astavakra. (Sloka 44, Chapter 19, Anusasana Parva). companions "This beautiful young man is in love. I
CITRA&GADA II. A wife of Arjuna. must give myself to him". Though her companions
General information. When once Dharmaputra was objected to her doing this, waving aside the objections
closeted with Pancali in amorous talks Arjuna by mis- Citrangada approached Suratha.
take entered the room and was thus compelled as per When Visvakarma knew about this he was extremely
a previous mutual agreement to go on a pilgrimage for a angry and cursed her saying that she would never have
year. During this exile he married the serpent girl a marriage. Citrangada fainted when she heard the
Ulupi. After that he proceeded again on his pilgrimage curse and her companions tried their best to wake her
and reached a state called Manalur. Manalur was then up, but failed. They then took her to be dead and left
reigned by a King called Citravahana. Citrangada the place in search of firewood and other things to
was the daughter of Citravahana. conduct a funeral.
An ancestor of Citravahana greatly grieved by the lack When Citrangada woke up she looked around for her
of a son, did great penance to propitiate Siva and Siva companions and finding none including her lover, the
blessed him and said that in future he and his successors prince, she ran and threw herself into the river, Sarasvati.
186
CITRARtJPA
CITRAJXIGI
his vow of celibacy.
That river pushed her down to river Gomati
and that conquer him because of ( Chapters
ashore a forest. There 165 to 183, Adi Parva, M.B.).
river in turn washed her huge
Other details.
she was met by the sage Rtadhvaja. Knowing her 3)
Citraratha attended one of the birthday festivals ot
sad tale the sage felt compassion for her and cursed (1 )
Adi Parva, M.B.).
Visvakarma to be born as a monkey. Then he let
her Arjuna. (Sloka 52, Chapter 122,
63 and Citraratha worshipped Kubera sitting in the latter's
her lover and blessed them. (Chapters (2 )
marry council. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Sloka 26).
64, Vamana Purana).
He offered as a to Dharmaputra four hundred
a king ot (3) gift
CITRA5IG1. Daughter of Bhadrasrenya, excellent horses which could fly like wind. (Chapter 52,
She was the wife of Durmada. (See under
Hehaya. Sloka 23, Vana Parva).
Durmada). the gandharvas milked the earth during the
When
CITRAPUSPAM. A kinds of (4)
garden where peculiar time of the emperor, Prthu, Citraratha
acted as the calf.
of
flowers grow. This garden is on the higher planes
the west of Dvaraka. (M.B. Sabha (Sloka 39, Chapter 6, Harivarh^a).
Mount Sukaksa Siva once sent Citraratha as a messenger to Asura
to
(5)
should
Parva, Chapter 38). Sarhkhacuda, with a message that Samkhacuda
CITRARATHA I. (A&GARAPAR&A). A devagan- abandon his satanic activities. (Devi Bhagavata, Nava-
dharva. ..
ma Skandha).
1) Citraratha
Birth. was the gandharva son ot CITRARATHA II. One of the ministers of Dasaratha.
of his wife Muni. (Sloka 43, Chapter He to the Suta dynasty. (Sloka 17, Ayodhya
Kasyapaprajapati belonged
65, Adi Parva). Kanda, Valmlki Ramayana).
Citraratha and Arjuna. The greatest event in the CITRARATHA III. A king of Salva. Once Renuka,
2)
life of Citraratha alias Angaraparna
was the defeat he wife of Jamadagni, bath in the river stayed
after her
in the
suffered at the hands of Arjuna. The Pandavas after ashore watching this king and his queen bathe
Renuka thus reached the asrama
their escape from the lac palace (Laksagrha) through river with erotic plays.
a tunnel arrived in a forest and there they
killed the a bit late and Jamadagni enraged at this commanded
One night they were his son Paras' urama to chop the head
of his own mother.
demons Hidimba and Baka.
the shores of the river Ganga when they Purana, Chapter 59).
walking along (Brahmanda
heard a sound of somebody bathing in the river. Arjuna CITRARATHA IV. A king of the dynasty of Bharata.
who was walking ahead waving a country torch went He was the son of King Gaya. Citraratha had a sister
to see who was bathing at that time
of the night. Arjuna named Sugati and a brother Avarodhana. (Pancama
then saw Citraratha enjoying a bath with his wife Skandha, Bhagavata).
Kumbhinasi. That period of the night was allotted
to
CITRARATHA V. A prince of Paiicala. He was killed
the gandharvas, and human beings were not expected in the battle of Mahabharata by Dronacarya. (Sloka
to be out walking at that time.
Citraratha felt it
43, Chapter 122, Drona Parva).
that a human being should be out CITRARATHA VI. A
king of the Anga country.
He
impertinent Arjuna
and into the privacy of the married Prabhavati, of Ruci, wife
sister of Devasarma.
walking at night peep
and Arjuna so entered into Anusasana Parva, M.B.).
gandharvas. The gandharva (Sloka 8, Chapter 42,
a combat. Citraratha who was a great fighter was, CITRARATHA VII. A king of the Yadava dynasty.
hand and foot, and He was the son of USanku and father of Sura. (Sloka 29,
after a grim battle, subdued, bound
before his brothers by Arjuna. Kumbhinasi Chapter 147, Anugasana Parva).
brought
followed her exhausted, powerless and spiritless
husband CITRARATHA VIII. Son of Virabahu and a friend ot
and pleaded to Dharmaputra to release him. Dharma- Sri Rama. In the Rajya Kanda of Ananda Ramayana
following are a few. The story of the feud between hand and foot. At that time Sri Rama came to the scene
and
Vasistfia story of Tapatlsarhvarana
and Visvamitra, and told Kusa that Virabahu was a friend of his
set Virabahu free. Hema was then
married to C
and tales about the sage Parasara, Kalmasapada,
and Aurva. Citra- ratha and Virabahu was sent away with
due respect.
Adriyanti, Bhargavas, Krtavlrya fame.
ratha advised the Pandavas to have a priest for
the CITRARATHA. An Indian river of puranic
sacrificial rites and it was thus that they engaged (Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva, M.B.).
as their family priest. CITRARtJPA. attendant of Siva. When by a curse
An
Dhaumya MahalaksmI was changed into a mare,
to of Mahavisnu
Since Arjuna had destroyed all the chariots belonging that Siva sent a message to
name it was through this attendant
Citraratha, the latter got a 'Bhagnaratha' (devoid
could Visnu. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 6).
of chariots). Citraratha admitted that Arjuna
CITRASARASANA (SARASANA, CITRACAPA) 187 CITRASENA XIII
CITRASARASANA. (SARASANA, CITRACAPA). One gandharvas and a few Apsara maidens. (Sloka 32,
of the sons of Dhrtarastra. In the great battle he was Chapter 4, Sabha Parva).
killed by Bhimasena. (Sloka 20, Chapter 136, Drona (2 ) Citrasena is a member of the court of Kubera also.
Parva ) .
(Sloka 26, Chapter 10, Sabha Parva).
CITRASENA I. A gandharva. There is reference to (3) Citrasena used to attend the court of Indra also
thisgandharva in many places in the puranas. He had at times. (Sloka 22, Chapter 7, Sabha Parva).
two wives Sandhyavali and Ratnavali. (4) At the invitation of Indra Arjuna went to devaloka
1
) How Arjuna saved him. Once when Citrasena with and Citrasena taught him dance and music. It was
his wives was
travelling in the aerial car the spittings of during this visit that Arjuna threw a cold blanket on the
Citrasena upon the sage Galava who was doing his
fell amorous approaches of Urvasi and was consequently
sandhya rites then. The sage complained about the cursed by her to be an eunuch. It was through Citrasena
incident to Sri Krsna who promised to bring to him the that Indra sent word to Urvasi to console Arjuna and
head of Citrasena before sun-set. Sage Narada informed give relief from the curse. (Chapters 45 and 46, Vana
Citrasena of this vow of Krsna. The gandharva was Parva).
taken aback and did not know what to do. But Sandhya- CITRASENA II (UGRASENA). One of the hundred
vali and Ratnavali went and sought the help of Subhadra. sons of Dhrtaras{ra.
They made a fire pit in front of her house and decided 2) Other details.'
to end their lives along with Citrasena by jumping into (1) Citrasena was present for the svayarhvara of Pan-
the fire. While Citrasena was circling the fire-pit be- call. (Sloka 3, Chapter 185, Adi Parva, M.B.).
fore jumping into it his wives wept loudly and hearing (2) Citrasena was among those who accompanied
the noise Subhadra came out and saw what was happen- Duryodhana when he went to play the historical game
ing. They then took from Subhadra a boon to the effect of dice with Dharmaputra. (Sloka 13, Chapter 58,
that they should be allowed to live with their husband. Sabha Parva ) .
It was only after granting them the boon that Subhadra In the great Mahabharata battle he fought against
(3)
understood the whole situation. Subhadra was in a Bhimasena, Susarma, Satyaki and Satamka. Bhima
fix but Arjuna assured her that Citrasena would be killed him. (Chapter 137, Drona Parva).
protected at any cost. Arjuna very cleverly shielded all CITRASENA III. A prince of the Puru line, son of
the arrows sent against the gandharva by Krsna and Pariksit and grandson of Aviksit. (Sloka 54, Chapter
gradually the fight came to be one between Arjuna and 94, Adi Parva).
Sri Krsna. Subhadra came between them and it was CITRASENA IV. A minister of Jarasandha. He was
found difficult to continue the fight. Sri Krsna advised known as Dimbhaka also. (Sloka 32, Chapter 22,
Citrasena to bow down and touch the feet of Galava. Sabha Parva ) .
Citrasena obeyed and the issue settled without harm to CITRASENA V. A king of the country of Abhisara.
both the parties. He on the side of the Kauravas against the
fought
While the Panda vas were
2) Arjuna defeats Citrasena. Pandavas and was killed by Srutakarma. (Sloka 14,
in exile,Duryodhana knew through a spy that they Chapter 14, Karna Parva).
were camping in the Dvaitavana forest. Prompted by CITRASENA VI. (SRUTASENA). Brother of Susarma,
Karna Duryodhana programmed to go to Dvaitavana the king of Trigarta. These two brothers jointly
with his retinue to enjoy the sight of the suffering Panda- by an incessant downpour of arrows suffocated Arjuna
vas. So they started to the forests under a pretext of an in the battle-field. (Chapter 27, Karna Parva, M.B.).
annual stock-taking of the cows. They reached Dvaita- CITRASENA VII. A warrior of Panca'la. Karna killed
vana with a huge army. There they split into parties him in the great battle. (Sloka 15, Chapter 48, Karna
and roamed about making merry by themselves. Soon Parva ) .
one of the parties reached a pond near the hermitage of CITRASENA VIII. A son of Karna. Nakula killed
the Pandavas. They saw a few gandharvas making him in the great battle. (Salya Parva, Chapter 10).
merry With the usual haughtiness they
in the pond. CITRASENA IX. A brother of Karna. In the great
commanded the gandharvas to leave the pond and make battle Yudhamanyu killed him. (Sloka 39, Chapter
room for Duryodhana to come and bathe. The gandhar- 83, Karna Parva).
vas did not pay heed to their words and on being inform- CITRASENA X. One of the kings on the sea-shore.
ed of this Duryodhana went to fight with the gandhar- Along with his son he fought on the side of the Pandavas
vas. It was Citrasena who led the gandharvas and by against the Kauravas and was killed by Samudrasena.
his incessant shower of piercing arrows split the Kaurava (Sloka 16, Chapter 6, Karna Parva).
forces and made them flee for life. Duryodhana was CITRASENA XL A
serpent.' This serpent joined
isolated from his army, was bound hand and foot and hands with Arjuna during the Krsnarjuna battle.
taken a prisoner. In their sheer helplessness they approa- (Sloka Chapter 87, Karna Parva).
43,
ched Dharmaputra in his hermitage and acquainted CITRASENA XII. A king of the dynasty of Vaiva-
him with the pitiable plight of Duryodhana. Dharma- svatamanu. (Navama Skandha, Bhagavata ).
putra asked Arjuna to go to the help of the Kauravas. CITRASENA XIII. A Maharaja who obtained sal-
Arjuna faced Citrasena in a grim combat. Citrasena vation by observing the Astamlrohini Vrata. This
then appeared in his real form and Arjuna knew that king was a great sinner having committed such sins as
he was fighting a friend. Then at the request of Arjuna Agamyagamana (Incest), Brahmasvapaharana (steal-
Citraratha released Duryodhana. (Chapters 239 to ing things belonging to Brahmins), Surapana (drink-
243, Vana Parva). ing) and Pranihimsa (causing injury to living beings).
3) Other details. (1) This gandharva occupied a seat One day while hunting he followed a tiger and at dusk
in the court of Yudhisthira along with twentyseven other exhausted with thirst and hunger he reached the banks
CITRASENA 1 188 COLA
of the river Yamuna. It was the day of Astamirohini He fought on the side of the Pandavas. The horse of
and many maidens were observing the Astamirohini this warrior was blood-coloured and his weapons were
Vrata there. Before them was a heap of rice and of a peculiar type. Kama tilled him in the great battle.
other eatables which was given as an offering to (Chapter 23, Drona Parva and Chapter 56, Karna
Krsna and seeing the lot the King begged for some- Parva ) .
thing to eat and drink. The maidens replied that it CM KOPACITRA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrta-
1
was a sin to take food on that day ofVrata and then there rastra. In the "great battle Bhlmasena killed him. (Sloka
came a change in the mind of the King and he readily 1 8',
Chapter 1 1 1Drona Parva
, )
.
agreed to observe the Astamirohini vrata and did so. C1TROPALA. A of puranic fame. (Sloka 34,
river
Because of this when the king died, though a great Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) .
sinner he was, he was taken to heaven by the servants CITTAVASTHAS. States of the mind. (See under
of Visnu. This story was told by Vasistha to Dilipa Pattu).
to impress upon him the greatness of observing C1YYALI. A holy place in South-India. (See under
the Astamirohini Vrata. (Chapter 13, Padma Purana). Agastya).
CITRASENA I.
Apsaras. An celestial maiden
This COLA. A very righteous emperor of KancTpura. Be-
was a dancer in the court of Kubera. (Sloka 10, Chap- cause of the virtuous rule of this emperor his country
ter 10, Sabha Parva). When Arjuna went to the land got the name Cola. There is an interesting story in
of Indra this maiden gave a dance in honour of Arjuna. Padma Purana of how the emperor attained Vaikun-
(Sloka 30, Chapter 43, Vana Parva). {haloka (The abode of Mahavisnu).
Once Cola went to Vaikuntha to worship Mahavisnu.
CITRASENA II. A prominent river. The people of
ancient Bharata used to drink the water of this river. As he was worshipping him with pearls and flowers
of gold a brahmin subject of his came there to worship
(Sloka 17, Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva)
him with water and TulasI leaves. The simple offer-
CITRASENA III. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
ing of TulasI leaves and flowers by this brahmarsi, Visnu-
14, Chapter 40, Salya Parva, M.B.). dasa, eclipsed the expensive one by the King and the
CITRASIKHAIilpI. Saptarsis (The seven saints) Marici, latter was greatly offended and he rebuked the Brahmin
Arigiras, Atri, Pulastya, Pulaha, Krtu and Vasistha. saying that he was a poor man who did not know what
These saints are called by the name Citrasikhandis devotion to Visnu was. But Visnudasa did not take
also. (Sloka 29, Chapter 336, Sand Parva). the taunt unchallenged. He asked the king to wait
CITRASlLA. A puranic river. The water of this river and see who would merge with the glowing entity of
is used by the Indians for
drinking. (Sloka 30, Chapter the Lord earlier.
9, Bhisma Parva). The King on returning to his palace started a Vaisnava-
CITRASVA. Another name of Satyavan. He used to sattra.(An almonry dedicated to Mahavisnu). This
make the figure of horses using clay and people there- almshouse was as comfortable and luxurious as the
fore gave him this name of Citragvan. (Sloka 13, one once started by Brahma in the temple of Gaya.
Chapter 294, Vana Parva). Visnudasa on the other hand spent his life in a Visnu
CITRAVAHA. A puranic. river of Bharata. (Sloka temple leading a celibate life and observing rites pleas-
wavering devotion to you in thought, speech and deed." Each got a different substance and what the Nagas got
Repeating three times the king jumped into the
this was poison. They milked the poison into a pot-like
fire. At this Mudgala, the
priest, burst into anger and Curaykka.
tore off the lock of hair on his head. So even today CUTU. (Dice).It is an imaginative pauranic assump-
the decendants of Mudgala do not have hair-locks. tion that there a satanic force latent in dice, hunting,
is
Visnu who is always affectionate to his devotees graci- wine and women. There is a story to support the pre-
ously appeared from the sacrificial fire and embraced sence of this evil power within the above four. Indra
the King. The King was then taken to Vaikuntha. once turned the Asvinldevas out of his court labelling
(Chapters 110, 111, Padma Purana). them as outcastes and banned wine to them. Discon-
COLA (M). The three celebrated kingdoms of South- tented at this the Asvinldevas approached Cyavana and
India of old were Cola, Pandya and Cera. References the latter performing a yaga invited the Asvinldevas and
to these will be found in many places in the Puranas gave them the yaga wine, 'Soma'. Infuriated at this
and a few are given below : Indra raised his celebrated Vajrayudha (Weapon of
1
) Among those present for the svayarhvara of Rukrnim thunder) to kill Cyavana. But the sage by his yogic
were the Kings of Cola, Pandya and Kerala. powers paralysed the hands of Indra and instantly from
2 ) Descending in order from Turvasu were Varga the sacrificial fire there arose Mada a genie to kill Indra.
Gobhanu - Traisani -- Karandhama
-
Marutta - Frightened by this sight Indra fell at the feet of Cyavana
Dusyanta Varutha Gandira. From Gandlra were and craved for pardon. The sage then tore the genie into
born the people of Kerala, Pandya and Cola. four pieces 'and threw one each into dice, hunting, wine
(Chapter 277, Agni Purana). and women. That is why all the four are as alluring as
3) Arjuna conquered the army of the King of Cola. destructive. (Saptama Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
(Sloka 21, Chapter 27, Sabha Parva). CYAVANA. A celebrated sage of the Bhargava dynasty.
4) The King of Cola gave gifts to Dharmaputra. 1) Genealogy.Descending in order from Brahma
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 52,
35). Sloka Bhrgu Cyavana.
5) When during the great battle Dhrstadyumna formed 2) Birth. Bhrgu is the son of Brahma born of Agni at the
the Krauncavyuha the soldiers from Cola guarded the Brahmayajna conducted by Varuna. The beautiful and
southern wing. (Sloka 60, Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva). virtuous lady Puloma was the wife of Bhrgu. Even be-
6 ) Sri Krsna once conquered the land of Cola. (Sloka fore Bhrgu married her she was being loved by the demon
17, Chapter 11, Drona Parva). Puloma and her marriage with Bhrgu embittered him
COURAS. A set of Ksatriyas who became Sudras by and he waited for an opportunity to kidnap Puloma.
a curse of the brahmins. One day when Bhrgu went to the river for his bath
Pandyas, Kandvas, Sirakhyas, Latas, Dravidas, Keralas, Puloma entered the asrama and there he found his love
Couras, Darvas, Daradas, Saundis, Sabaras, Arbaras, Puloma being watched over by Agni. Puloma compelled
Kiratas and Yavanas were all Ksatriyas but were turned Agni to tell him the truth whether Bhrgu had married
into Sudras by a curse of the brahmins. Puloma according to the rites enjoined by the scriptures.
CUCUKA. A low-caste tribe of south India. They Agni confessed that it was not so and then Puloma
were aborigines older than the Mahabharata in origin. taking the shape of a hog carried away Puloma who was
(Sloka 42, Chapter 207, Santi Parva). then in a stage of advanced pregnancy. On the way the
CUCUKA (M). A place in ancient south India. (Sloka wife of the sage delivered and the babe dropped to the
26, Chapter 110, Udyoga Parva). ground. Because the babe was born with a fall (Cyavana)
CODAKARftTA. The character of a Sannyasi in a tale from the womb the boy was named Cyavana. The
in Pancatantra. radiance of the boy burnt the demon into ashes. Puloma
CUDALA. The saintly wife of King Sikhidhvaja. When weeping profusely with tears rolling down her cheeks
once Sikhidhvaja renounced his kingdom and went to returned to the asrama. Her tears ran into a river and the
the forests, his wife gave him instruction in Atma- river got the name Vadhusara Bhrgu on knowing how all
jfiana and brought him back to his country. (Chapter happened cursed Agni saying that Agni would thereafter
77, Yogavasistha). be an all-round eater, (eating anything and everything).
CUDAMA I. See under Sita.
.
(Chapters 5 and 6, Adi Parva).
CULL A sage. Once Somada, daughter of a gandharva 3) Penance and marriage. Even when he was very
women Urmila. looked after this sage and well pleased young Cyavana commenced practising austerities.
with her service he asked her what she wanted and He went to the forests and sat in meditation without food
Somada asked for a son by him. Culi gave her a spiri- or sleep, oblivious to what happened outside. Years went
tual son of his and the boy was named Brahmadatta. by and Cyavana did not stir from his place. Gradually
This Brahmadatta married the hundred hunch-backed earth began to cover him and soon he was completely
daughters ofKusanabha. (Bala Kanda, Valmiki Rama- enveloped by earth. Creepers grew on it and birds made
yana ) .
rests; Cyavana did not know anything about it.
CYAVANA 190 CYAVANA
One day Saryati with his wives and children came to him his dinner. She would eat only what was left by
that forest for a picnic. Sukanya, daughter of King her husband. At night she would spread a soft bedding
Saryati, along with her companions separated from the and lull him to sleep. Then she would
take a nap lying
King and roamed about in the forest making merry. at the foot of her husband. During summer she would
They soon came to the place where Cyavana sat doing fan him and during winter she would make fire to give
penance. There was an unusual radiance around the him heat. Early morning she would take him to a dis-
heap of earth they saw there and Sukanya out of curiosity tant place for his excretion and after washing him would
started striking down the earth. Then from inside came seat him in a suitable place for cleaning his teeth and
Cyavana's voice advising her not to crumble down the face. Then the routine would start with great devotion
earth as she was doing. Sukanya ignored the advice and again.
searched for the source of the voice. She then saw two One day Sukanya was returning from the river after her
points of glow and taking a thorn gave two pricks at bath and on the way she came across the ASvinldevas.
those points and left the place with her companions. They were astounded to see such a beautiful damsel in
Those glow-points were the eyes of Cyavana and Cya- the forest and they accosted her and requested her to
vana felt insufferable pain when his eyes were thus pierced select one of them as her husband. Knowing her identity
through. But he neither became angry nor cursed the they advised her to forsake her old and blind husband and
girl whodid this havoc. Cyavana went on with his come and live with one of them. She flew into a fury
penance. But soon the country of Saryati began to expe- when she heard her husband spoken of so slightingly
rience the bad effects of this evil-deed. People one by one and by logical argument convinced them the error of
in the beginning and then the whole lot were disabled their request. Then they told her thus: "You are aware
from passing either urine or faeces. From men and we are the physicians of the devas. We
can give back
women the disease spread to the animals also. The country eyesight to your husband and make him as beautiful
was in a chaos and the subjects flocked to the palace to as one of us. We
will then appear before you as three
complain to the King. Saryati knew that somebody must lovely young men identical in appearance and then you
have in a some way tormented Cyavana and enquired must select one among the three as your husband."
of each and everyone of his subjects. Whether
anybody Sukanya was immensely pleased as well as surprised to
had knowingly or unknowingly given pain to Cyavana. hear the offer and was eager to see her husband young
Nobody had done so and the King was worried. Then and beautiful. But the last condition frightened her.
Sukanya ran to her father and confessed what she had Anyhow she promised to give a reply after consulting her
done. The King ran immediately to the husband and ran to the asrama to tell her husband the
place where
Cyavana was doing penance and striking down the earth news. Cyavana advised her to accept the offer of the
prostrated before the sage who was sitting there sad and Asvinidevas and Sukanya ran back to the Asvinidevas
miserable. The King apologised to Cyavana and and brought them to her husband accepting their terms.
reques-
ted him to pardon his daughter. The Asvinidevas took the aged and blind Cyavana along
Cyavana then told the King that it was enough if he with them to the river nearby and the three plunged into
gave his daughter in marriage to him in expiation of the the river. When they rose up after a dip the three emer-
harm done. The King was shocked to hear this for ged as young, lovely and charming triplets difficult to be
Cyavana was not only ugly but now blind also. The distinguished from one another. When Sukanya stood
King returned to the palace sad and worried and there before the three to select her real husband she prayed to
was gloom over the whole palace. But Sukanya approa- her goddess and the Devi gave her the power to identify
ched her father and agreed to be the wife of Cyavana. Cyavana and so she correctly chose him from the three.
The problem was solved and the King with great reluc- (Saptama Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
tance took his daughter to the forests and gave her in
5) Cyavana defeated Indra. Immensely pleased at re-
marriage to Cyavana. gaining his eyesight and youth Cyavana asked the Asvini-
4) Cyavana attains eternal youth. It was the time when devas what they wanted. The Asvinidevas replied that
Indra had banned Somapana (drinking of the yaga wine) Indra had banned wine to them and they would like to
to the ASvinidevas. Discontented at this have the barf lifted. Cyavana Maharsi immediately
they roamed
about in the forests and soon came to the neighbourhood commenced a Somayaga to which were invited all the
of the asrama of Cyavana. devas and the Asvinidevas also. When Indra saw the
Sukanya after becoming the wife of Cyavana did all she Asvinidevas standing to partake ofthe Soma wine he was
could to make her husband comfortable and furious and objected to the wine being given to them.
happy.
She would collect very sweet and tasty fruit from the Cyavana dissented and a fight ensued between Indra and
forests and give him. She would bathe him in hot water.
Cyavana. Indra raised his weapon 'Vajrayudha' to
After arranging all the materials needed for the morning strike at Cyavana and then Cyavana made all his limbs
rites like yava, sesame, darbha and
water, she would go stiff. He then raised from the sacrificial fire a fiendish
take her husband to the place ofthe
puja leading him demon called Mada to kill the devas. All those present
by hand. When the morning puja was over she would were frightened by this demon and they ran away. But
seat him in a suitable place and
give him rice and fruits. Indra could not run for his limbs were stiff. Standing
After the meals she would give him pan to chew.
Only there he prayed to his preceptor Brhaspati for help and
after doing all these would she
go to do her daily rites Brhaspati advised Indra to surrender to Cyavana. Indra
and that too only after obtaining her husband's permis- bowed his head before Cyavana and prayed to be ex-
sion. She would finish her routine in no time to come cused. Cyavana was pleased and withdrawing the demon
back to her husband to see whether he was in need of tore him into four pieces and threw one each into Dice,
anything. Then she would make arrangements for the Hunting, Wine and Women. The devas and Asvinidevas
evening puja and after the puja was over she would give then went back to heaven. (Saptama Skandha, Devi
CYAVANASRAMA 191 DADHICA (M)
Bhagavata. Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 17, Sukta that he was made of the essences of the world, with a
116; Chapter 123, Vana Parva). huge body.
6) Other details.
2) The birth of the hermit Sdrasvata. Dadhlca erected his
(1) Paras urama once came and stayed at the asrama of hermitage on the bank of the river Sarasvati and began
Cyavana. At that time Bhrgu and Cyavana were in the to do penance. The power of penance increased daily.
asrama. They blessed him and advised him to go to Seeing this Indra was flurried. So he sent the celestial
Kailasa and do penance there to propitiate Siva. It was maid Alaihbusa to break the penance of Dadhlca some-
thus that Paras' urama happened to go to Kailasa to do how or other. Alarhbusa came to the hermitage of
penance there. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 62). Dadhlca and began to dance and sing. When the hermit
(2) Cyavana got a son named Pramati. This Pramati saw her he grew lustful and seminal discharge occurred
was the father of Ruru and the grandfather of Sunaka. to him. The semen fell in the river Sarasvati, who be-
(Chapter 5, Adi Parva). came pregnant and in due course gave birth to a child.
(3) Cyavana married Arusi daughter of Manu. Aurva She took the child to the hermit Dadhlca and told him
was the son born to Arusi from her thigh. In descending the story of the child. The hermit was much pleased.
order from Aurva were born Rclka Jamadagni He took the child and embraced it and blessed the river
Paras urama. (Chapter 66, Adi Parva). Sarasvati thus :
(4) Astika learnt Sariga Vedas from the asrama "Brahma, the gods and the celestial maids will be pleased
of Cyavana. (Chapter 48, Adi Parva). if your water is offered as oblation."
(5) Cyavana was the guru of Bhisma. (Sloka 11, Dadhici then said that the child should be named Saras-
Chapter 37, Santi Parva). vata. He also added that when there was a drought conti-
(6 ) King Yuvanas va once went to the as rama of Cyavana nuously for twelve years, Sarasvata would have the
greatly worried over the lack of a descendant. Cyavana power to bring rain. Then Sarasvati took the child to
prepared some sacred water made potent with the recital her abode and brought it up.
of mantras to induce gestation and kept it there. Acci- 3 )
How he destroyed the asuras with the head of a horse. Once
dentally the King drank that water and got pregnant. Dadhici went to the world of the devas (gods).
The pregnancy developed without miscarriage and in due From there he looked down and saw the earth filled with
time the King gave birth to a child, the left side of his the asuras. Indra went to destroy them. But he could
stomach bursting forth to push out the child. It was this not. So he made a search for anything left behind by
child who became Mandhata. (Chapter 126, Vana Dadhlca. He understood that Dadhlca had with him
Parva). the head of a horse. It was found in a lake in the country
(7) Cyavana was a brilliant member of the court of of Saranya. With the bones taken from that head Indra
Brahma. (Sloka 1 1 Chapter 22, Sand Parva )
,
. and Dadhlca destroyed a large number of asuras.
(8) Cyavana went to Patala (nether-world). (See under (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 13, Sukta 84).
Kekaralohita). 4) The weapon (Vajra) of Indra was made from a bone.
(9) Once the august Vedasarma of Kauslkagotra went A story occurs in the Mahabharata, which says that the
to the asrama of Cyavana lost in thought. Cyavana recei- Diamond-weapon of Indra was made of a bone of
ved him with due respect and enquired about the reason Dadhici. The asuras went to fight with Indra under the
for his sorrow. Vedasarma then told him that the lack of a leadership of Vrttrasura. Indra tried his utmost to kill
son worried him much. Cyavana then blessed him and Vrttrasura, but he could not. At last Indra approached
assured him of a child soon. (Chapter 14, Padma Purana). Brahma, who told Indra that if a bone of the hermit,
(10) Cyavana had a daughter named Sumanas and she called Dadhlca was obtained it could effectively be used
was married to a sage called Somasarma. (Chapter 14, against Vrtra. Accordingly Indra went with Nara
Padma Purana ) . and Narayana to the banks of the river Sarasvati and
CYAVANASRAMA. A sacred place. Arhba, daughter entered the hermitage and bowed before the shining
of Kas iraja, used to bathe in a pond nearby. (Sloka 26, hermit Dadhlca and informed him of their errand. The
Chapter 186, Udyoga Parva). hermit replied that he had no objection in giving his
CYAVANASAROVARAM. A sacred place. It is believ- bone to save the gods. Saying thus the hermit discarded
ed that the best place for worshipping Pitrs
this is his life. Indra took the bone of Dadhici and made his
(spirits of the dead). (Sloka II, Chapter 125, Vana weapon of Diamond (Vajra) with which he killed Vrtra
Parva). and his followers. (Mahabharata, Chapter 100).
D 5) Other information
(1 ) At the sacrifice of Daksa, Dadhici got angry because
D. (5) This letter means Rudra and (2) tremor
(1) Siva was not given his dues of the sacrifice. (M.B. Sand
or fear (trasa).
Parva, Chapter 284).
DA. This syllable means ruin. (Agni Purana, Chapter
to a Brahmin called Karuna
(2) Once Dadhici talked
348).
DABHlTI. A hermit who much in the about the importance of the ashes dedicated to Siva.
is praised Rg-
veda. It is mentioned Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka
in (Padma Purana, Chapter 101).
16, Sukta 112, that the Asvinldevas had saved Turviti, (3) See Dhananjaya
V to know how this hermit gave
Dabhiti, Dhvasanti and Purusand, the sons of Indra, absolution from curse to a fly.
horse and fixed it on the neck of Dadhyan. Having Brahma created by his mind, the seven great hermits,
the head of the horse he taught the art to the Asvini- Marlci, Angiras, Atri, Pulastya, Vasistha, Pulaha and
devas. When Dadhyan had finished teaching, they Kratu. So these seven hermits are called the Manasa-
took away the head of the horse and fixed his own putras (sons born from mind) of Brahma. After this,
head in place. (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka, 17, from the anger of Brahma, Rudra was born, and from
Sukta 166). his lap Narada, from his right thumb Daksa, from
DAHA I. One of the eleven Rudras. He was the grand- his mind the Sanakas and from his left thumb a daughter
son of Brahma and the son of Sthanu. (Mahabharata, named Virani were born.
Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 3). Virani nama tasya stu
DAHA II. An attendant given to Subrahmanya by asiknltyapi sattama
ArhSa, a god. (Mahabharata, Salya Parva, Chapter From this passage which occurs in Kalika Purana it
45, Stanza 34). may be assumed that 'Asikm' was another name of
DAHADAHA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (Maha- Virani. Daksa did penance in the mountain of Vindhya
bharata, Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 20). for a long time. It is mentioned in Bha^avata, Skandha
DAHATI. A warrior given to Subrahmanya by god 8, that Mahavisnu appeared before Daksa and gave
ArhSa. Mention is made about this warrior in Maha- him Asikm as his wife.
bharata, Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 34. Several sons were born to Daksa by his wife Asikni.
DAIVA I. Almighty God. (See Ir-'vara). The last one was a daughter named SatI who became
DAIVA II. A kind of marriage. The form of marriage the wife of Siva. At this time Daksa performed a sacrifice.
by which one gives his daughter to a priest. (See As he was not invited to that sacrifice, Siva sent
Vivaha ) . Virabhadra and Bhadraka.li and killed Daksa. Though
DAIVALlKA. A country. Mention is made in Maha- the devas put the head of a goat in place of the lost
bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 52, Stanza 18, that head and brought Daksa to life again, no reference
the King and the people of Daivallka were present is made about the life of Daksa after the sacrifice. Thus
on the occasion of the sacrifice of Rajastiya (imperial the first stage of the life of Daksa ends. (Devi Bhaga-
consecration) of Yudhisthira. vata, Skandha 7).
DAIVASAMPATTI. The" virtues of those who arc After once the Pracelascs (the ten sons of Barhis)
this,
born of a noble family. were engaged in penance and the earth was not pro-
'He Bharata Security, knowledge of
! tattvas the desire perly cultivated in consequence of which big trees
'The regarding the two hermits Dadhici and Dadhyari in the Puranas are not very clear. In Maha bharata DadhTca is men-
stories
tioned as the son of Bhrgu, and in Rgveda it occurs that DadhTca was the son of Hermit Atharva who was the son of Vasistha.
Moreover the story of Dadhyan teaching the Asvinidevas the 'Madhuvidya' is connected with Dadhici in some other puranas
Some statements in the Rgveda make it difficult to assume that both Dadhyan and Dadhici are one and thesame person. So reiving
on the majority of statements in the various puranas this book has accepted the fact that these hermits are separate persons and that
Dadhici was the son of Bhrgu whereas the hermit who taught Madhuvidya to the Asvinidevas was Dadhyari.
DAKSA 193 DAKSA
grew up and the whole of the earth was changed into sam, Janakam, PhalgunI, Uttaraphalgunam, Hastam,
a big forest. The sky was covered with tree tops. It Citra, Svatl,
Visakham, Anuradha, Jyestha, Mulam,
was difficult even for the wind to pass through them Purvasadham, Uttarasadham, Srona, Sravistha, Pracetas,
and thus the forest thrived for ten thousand years. The Purvaprosthapadam, Uttaraprosthapadam, Revatl.
pracetases got out of the sea after penance and entered The names of the wives given to Angiras, Arisfanemi,
the shore. When they saw the big forest they got
angry Bahuputra and Krsasva are not mentioned.
and the ten of them discharged fire and wind from
Besides these damsels, twentyfour daughters were born
their faces. The wind up-rooted the trees and the fire
to Daksa of his wife Prasuti who was the sister of Uttana-
dried them. Thus almost the whole of the trees were
consumed. Then Candra, the King of the medicinal pada. Dharmadeva married thirteen of them also, named
herbs came there and told the Pracetases "Oh, Kings,
Sraddha, LaksmI, Dhrti, Tusti, Medha, Pusti, Kriya,
hold your anger. I will make the trees conclude a Buddhi, Lajja, Vapus, Santi, Siddhi, Klrti. Of the rest,
Khyati was given to Bhrgu, SatI to Siva, Sarhbhuti to
treaty with you. The beautiful Marisa who was born
to the trees is my foster-daughter. I give her to
Marlci, Smrti to Angiras, Prlti to Pulastya, Ksama
you to Pulaha, Santati to Kratu, Anasuya to Atri, Drja
as your wife. From half the portion of your minds
to Vasistha, Svaha to Agnideva and Svadha to the
and half the portion of my mind the great and wise
Manes. (Visnu Purana, Arh^a 1, Chapter 15).
prajapati Daksa is going to take birth in her womb".
The Pracetases controlled their anger and accepted 3) Sacrifice of Dakfa. Once Daksa performed a sacri-
fice called Brhaspatisavana. To this sacrifice he did not
Marisa as their wife, at the words of Somadeva (Candra)
invite his daughter SatI or her husband Siva. Daksa
and as the son of the ten pracetases the Prajapati Daksa
did not invite them because of three reasons according
was born. With this the second stage of the life of Daksa
to the Puranas.
begins. The important occurrences in the two stages
of the life of Daksa are given below in their order. (1 )
Once Durvasas, the son of Atri, went to Jambunada
and meditated with the mantra or spellof 'Mayablja'
2 ) Daksa's creation of the prajas or subjects. Once Brahma
called Daksa and ordered him to create prajas or sub- and worshipped Jagadambika (mother of the
world ) the goddess there. The goddess was much plea-
jects. Accordingly Daksa created the gods, the hermits,
sed and gave him as a token of her pleasure the garland
the Gandharvas (Demi-gods), the Asuras, the serpents
of flowers she wore from which nectar was oozing.
etc. Seeing that the subjects he created were not
pro- Durvasas wore it on his head and went to the palace of
liferating as required he thought of creating subjects
Daksa, the Prajapati. When he saw such a wonderful
by coition of male and female; and he begot by his
wife Asikni five thousand sons, and they were called garland which was not of this world, he wanted to have
Haryasvas. They in their turn were about to create
it and Durvasas instantly
gave it to Daksa. He placed it in
when Narada appeared before them and said a prominent place in his bedroom and enjoying the
subjects
wonderful fragrance of it he conjugated with his wife,
"Oh, Haryasvas, you are mere children and ignorant
of the secrets of this world. How do you intend to and polluted that pure garland by his lust. Siva and his
create subjects ? You fools, since you have the power
wife came to know of this and they scolded Daksa, who
to go up and down and lengthwise and breadthwise, kept this bitterness in his heart and when the sacrifice
was performed, he decided not to invite them. (Devi
why don't you try to find out the extremities of the
Bhagavata, Skandha 7).
earth ?" Hearing the words of Narada, they all ran
in different directions and have not returned since. (2) Siva was considered as a polluted man by Daksa
Thus Daksa lost the Haryasvas. Daksa again as he had always been carrying with him the skull of
begot
thousand sons by Asikni and they were called Sabalasvas. Brahma and so he thought it wrong on his part to admit
his daughter and son-in-law to the sacrificial hall. The
Seeing that they also were about to create subjects
Narada scattered them also, by some tricks. The story of how Siva came to have the skull, is given below.
Sabalasvas who had gone to see the end of the earth In days of old when the whole world was under the
have not yet returned. single ocean (of the great flood) the sun, the moon, the
Daksa got angry with Narada and cursed him thus : fire, was destroyed and darkness pre-
air everything
"You also, children shall wander from place
like my vailed. All vegetations were destroyed. All the
the
to place all over the earth". From that dry onwards emotions and non-emotions disappeared. The supreme
Narada became a wanderer, without a fixed dwelling Lord was sleeping for so many thousands of nights
place. The wise Prajapati Daksa again begot sixty together. At the end of the night he assumed the attri-
damsels by Asikni. Ten of the girls were given to Dharma- bute of 'Rajoguna' (activity) and got ready to create
deva, thirteen of them to Kasyapa, twentyseven of the universe. From the face of the Supreme Lord and
them to Soma, and four of them to Aristanemi. Of creator of the universes came out Brahma with five faces.
the rest two were given to Bahuputra, two to
Arigiras In the same way, Siva with three eyes and matted hair,
and two to the wise Krsasva. The names of the wives and trident and rosary of beads (Elaeo carpus) and with
of each are given below : attribute of 'Tamas' (darkness destruction) also came
(1) Kasyapa. Danu, Arista, Surasa, Khasa,
Aditi, Dili, out. Both Brahma and Siva were filled with egoism and
Surabhi, Vinata, Tamra, Krodhavasa, Ira, Kadru, both began to quarrel with each other. It was a contest
Muni. as to who was greater. The contest ended in attack.
(2) Dharmadeoa. ArundhatI, Vasu, Yami, Lamba, Siva plucked off the fifth head of Brahma, when the
Bhanu, MarutvatI, Sankalpii, Muhurta, Sadhya, same face, flushed with anger, scolded Siva. The head
Visva. fell into the hands of Siva, who could not throw it down
(3) Soma. Asvayuk, Bharani, Krttika, RohinI, Mrga- as it didn't come off from his hand. Brahma cursed
siras, Tarakam (Ardra), Punarvasu, Pusyam, Asle- Siva and made him polluted. Since Siva became polluted,
DAKSA 194 DAKSINA
his wife Sail alsowas considered as polluted by Daksa. was crowned as the King of the subjects. (See under
(Vamana Purana, Chapter 2). Prthu).
a sacrifice. Brahma, It occurs in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter
(3 ) Once the prajapatis performed
(3)
Visnu and Siva were present there. Daksa, who had been 1 1, Stanza 18, that Daksa was a member of the assemibly
invited by the prajapatis also was present. When Daksa
of Brahma.
entered the hall his son-in-law Siva did not rise up. (4) Daksa was one of those who visited Bhlsma in his
This arrogance of Siva made Daksa angry. Daksa made bed of arrows. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 47).
his mind to take vengeance on Siva, and performed (5) Mention is made in Mahabharata, Santi Parva,
up
a sacrifice known as Brhaspatisavana. To that sacrifice Chapter 166 that the devas, the manes, the gandharvas,
the celestial maids, the Raksasas, animals and birds,
he did not invite Siva or Sail.
fishes and all living creatures were born from the daugh-
Hearing that her father was conducting a sacrifice Sail ters of Daksa.
came uninvited. But Daksa did not even look at her. the ninth Manu.
DAKSASAVARNI. The name of
Satldevi whose heart was broken at this treatment made
During the regime ofthere will be three
this Manu,
a fire and jumped into it and died. Siva became furious
classes of devas (gods) called the Parnas, the Marici-
when he came to know of this. Being overwhelmed with
sorrow and anger he beat his matted hair on the ground, garbhas and the Sudharmans. Each of these ganasor
classes will consist of twelve devas or gods. Indra, their
from which two monsters, Virabhadra and Bhadrakall, be known as Adbhuta. He will be mighty and
will
came out. They ran to Daksa's sacrificial hall and des- King
powerful. In that Manvantara (age of the Manu)
troyed everything they saw, killed everybody, caught Savana, Vasu, Medhatithi,
hold of Daksa and cut off his head. Then they began to
Dyutiman, Bhavya,
create havoc in the whole world. The hermits and
Jyotisman and Satya will be the Saptarsis (the seven
hermits and Dhrtaketu, Dlptiketu, Pancahasta, Nira-
sages began to take to flight.
Men and animals shivered.
Thus the three worlds began to tremble with fear. The maya, Prthu:' rava and others will be the sons of Manu,
Daksasavarni. (Visnu Purana, Ariisa 1, Chapter 2).
gods approached Siva with supplication to curb his DAKSAYAlVi. Daughter of Daksa. This name is gene-
anger. The gracious Sarikara was pleased to recall the
rally used for all the daughters of Daksa. Occasionally
monsters. After that everybody requested him to bring
this name is used for the grand daughters of Daksa
Daksa back to life. But the search made for the head of also.
Daksa was futile. At last Brahma took the head of a A
DAKSII^A. daughter, born to Prajapati Ruci, by his
goat and joined it to the headless trunk of Daksa. Thus
1 wife Akuti. The first Manu was Svayambhuva, the son
he was brought to life again. (Devi Bhagavata, of Brahma. He accepted Satarupa, his sister who be-
Skandha 7). came sinless by penance, Satarupa gave birth
as his wife.
Cursing Candra. Candra had married twentyseven
4) to two sons Uttanapada, and two
Priyavrata and
Daksa. But he showed particular attach-
daughters, Prasuti and Akuti. Of these two daughters,
daughters of
ment to Rohini. The other twentysix wives could not Prasuti was given to Prajapati Daksa and Akuti to
bear this. They made a complaint to their father Daksa.
Prajapati Ruci. Akuti gave birth to twins, a son named
Daksa Candra and advised him to show equal
called
Yajfta and a daughter named Daksina. To Yajiia
attachment to all his wives and not to show any partia- twelve sons were born by Daksina. They were a class
lity to anyone.
Candra did not gainsay his father-in- of devas (gods) called the Yamas in the regime of Manu
law, but he did not make any change in his disposition. Svayambhuva (Visnu Purana, Arils' a 1, Chapter 7).
After a few days all the daughters except Rohini went Now Daksina is worshipped as a goddess. The same
to the palace of Daksa and told him that they were Daksina was reborn in the Goloka under the name
going to stay with him. This time Daksa got angry and Suslla. At that time she was a cowherd woman and
called Candra and cursed him to become a sick man friend of Radha. She liked to talk with Sri Krsna. One
(of consumption). day Radha saw her sitting in the lap of Sri Krsna,
From that day onwards Candra became a patient affec- engaged in sexual sports, in a secluded place. When
ted with consumption. All the vegetations in the world Suslla saw that Radha had found them out, she be-
began to weaken. It appeared that the world was came dumbfounded with shame, and sat with bowed
about to be destroyed. So the gods approached Daksa head. Sri Krsna slowly placed Suslla devi down and
and requested him to show some leniency towards instantly vanished. The angry Radha cursed SuSila to
Candra. Daksa accordingly called Candra and told become ashes if ever she entered the Goloka again. Then
him that he would be affected by consumption only for a Radha ran about everywhere in search of Sri Krsna,
fortnight and after that he would
recover gradually. but he could not be found.
Candra went to Prabhasa tlrtha and Sarasvati tirtha and Immediately after the curse, Sugila got down from the
dipped in water. He began to recover from that day. Goloka and began to worship MahalaksmI with devotion
It is according to the curse of Daksa that Candra (Moon) and meditation and very severe fast and vow. After
waxes and wanes. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 35). a long time MahalaksmI appeared to her and blessed
5) Other her, and Sui'IIa became absorbed in MahalaksmI.
information.
name 'Kan'. Since the absorption of Sus Ila devi, who was the rebirth
(1) Daksa has another
"Daksa the Prajapati is a son of ten fathers. He has of DaksinadevI, in MahalaksmI, the sacrifice of the
two names. They are Daksa and Kan." (M.B. Sand devas (gods) became fruitless. They were much grieved.
Parva, Chapter 208, Stanza 7). They all went to Brahma to find a solution. As the matter
When the emperor Prthu milked the earth, Daksa was serious Brahma meditated upon Visnu, who
(2)
in the Purai-as. We hear of
no mention of him again
i. Though Dak?a was brought to life again with the head of a goat there is
became pleased with Brahma and to save the which Dhrtarastra's kingdom was the havis in the form
dcvas, he
attracted DaksinadevI from the
body of MahalaksmI of sliced meat. This homa was
performed in Avakirna-
and gave her as a present to Brahma. Brahma mahatirtha at Prthudaka. As a result of it the
gave that kingdom
devi (goddess) to Yajnapurusa
(the god of sacrifice) began to decline. The King was alarmed and
consulted
so that the sacrifices of become
gods might fruitful. great scholars and astrologers about the cause of the
When Yajnapurusa saw that supernatural beauty he was country's decline. They told him that the cause of the
overpowered by lust and swooned. The couple spent a disaster was Dalbhya's homa. Dhrtarastra at once
hundred divine years in seclusion pro-
enjoying the company ceeded with rich presents to
propitiate Dalbhya at
of each other, as a result of which devi became
Avaklruamahatlrtha. Dalbhya was pleased and as
The pregnancy matured in twelve divine yearspregnant.
and she desired by the King,
performed homa with milk and
gave birth to a child which was named Phalada. It is honey and revived all those who had died (Vamana
this same
Phalada, the son of Yajnapurusa and Daksina Purana, Chapter 39).
who awards fruits to all actions. The learned men
that Yajnapurusa, DaksinadevI and Phalada
say Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 1 1 says
divide the that this Maharsi flourished in Yudhisthira's
fruits of actions assembly.
among the doers. (Devi Bhagavata On another occasion,he is referred to, as coming to
Skandha 9).
Dyumatsena, the father of Satyavan. At that time, he
DAKSIiyAGNI. A strong wind born from the fire comforted Dyumatsena by
saying that Satyavan would be
Pancajanya. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 229, Stanza blessed with
longevity. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
6).
298, Verse 17).
DAKSItfAKAILASA. Kalahasti, Tris ivaperoor and DALBHYAM. A
Trikonamala are known by the holy place in North India. (M.B.
name Daksinakailasa. Vana Parva, Chapter
DAKM 58, Verse 12).
.AMALLA. A country in ancient India. This DALBHYAGHOSA. Another name for the holy asrama,
country is called Mallarajya. Its capital was Kusinagara Dalbhyam.
or^Kusinara. In Mahabharata mention is made that DAMA I. The
brother of Damayanti. No other informa-
Bhlmasena, during his conquest brought this country tion about Dama
is available in the Puranas.
under control. (M.B. Sabha DAMA
Parva, Chapter 30) II. A hermit. He was one of the hermits who
DAKSUVAPANCALA. A place famous in the Puranas. came to visit Bhisma when he was
This place lies to the south of the lying on the bed of
Ganges up to the river arrows. (M.B. Anusasana Parva,
Chapter 26, Stanza 4).
Carhpat. It mentioned in Mahabharata Sabha Parva
is
DAMA. See Sarhbara.
Chapter Stanza 27, that the King of this
14, DAMA. A female attendant of Subrahmanya. (MB.
fled to the south
country
fearing Jarasandha. Pancala lies to the Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 5).
south and north of the
Ganges. But the country was DAMACANDRA. A King. He was a mighty hero and a
divided into two when Drona defeated
Drupada the friend of Dharmaputra.
(M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
King of Pancala, and took away from him the part of the 158, Verse 40).
country north of the Ganges. After that, the part taken DAMAGHOSA. The father of Sisupala, the King of
by Drona was called Uttarapancala and the part south Cedi. (M.B. Adi Parva,
of the Ganges was called Chapter 186, Stanza 86)
Daksinapancala. (M.B. Adi DAMANA I. A brother of Damayanti. In Mahabharata
Parva, Chapter 137). Vana Parva, Chapter 53, Stanza 8 it is mentioned that
DAKSINASINDHU. A holy place. This place is on the King Bhima had a daughter named Damayanti, and
shore of the southern sea. If one visits this
place and three sons named Dama, Danta and Damana.
akes bath there he will
sacrifice of
get the fruits of performing the DAMANA II. A hermit. Bhima the King of Vidarbha
Agnistoma, and the opportunity of travelling pleased this hermit, who blessed the King and said that
by the aeroplane of the gods. (M.B. Vana he would get children.
Parva, Accordingly the king got Dama-
Chapter 82, Stanza 53).
yanti as his daughter and Dama, Danta and Damana
DAKSItfATYAS. The people of South India. It is
mentioned in Mahabharata,
as his sons. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 53).
Udyoga Parva, Chapter
Stanza 2, that at the time of the
DAMANA The son of the King Paurava. Dhrsta-
III.
composing of the dyumna killed Damana in the battle of Bharata. (M.B.
,
Mahabharata, the leader of the Daksinatyas was the Bhisma Parva, Chapter 61, Stanza 20).
emperor Bhlsmaka.
D A The S n of Kin Parlksit of the
'
DAMANA IV. A son of Bharadvaja. After the investiture
^u
Ihe mother of Dala was dynasty of Iksvaku. with the Brahma string
(upanayana) Damana started
SuSobhana, the daughter of the on a travel. On the way near Amarakanfaka he met
King of Manduka. Dala had an elder brother called with the hermit Garga who talked to him about the
Sala. Dala became
king when Sala was killed. Hermit glory of Kasi. Damana who was a seeker of spiritual
Vamadeva was the priest of this King. (MB Vana
knowledge, stopped his travel and sat down to do penance
Parva, Chapter 192). See Parlksit II. and thus leaving his body he attained heaven.
DALBHYA (BAKADALBHYA). A Maharsi of Naimi- (Skanda
Purana, Chapter 2, 4, 74).
<aranya. In Vamana Purana, there is a story of how this DAMANAKA I. One of characters in a story, of Panca-
sage once performed a homa and burnt Dhrtarastra's tantra. (See Mitrabhedam).
kingdom in the sacrificial fire. DAMANAKA II. A
daitya (asura) Mahavisnu in his
Long ago some of the sages of NaimiSaranya approached incarnation as Matsya
Uhrtarastra with a request for some (Matsyavatara), killed this asura
money. Their who was a dweller of the sea. Visnu threw the
leader was the body of
sage Dalbhya (Baka). It was he who the asura into the earth.
aegged Dhrtarastra for money. The king not
By the touch of the Lord the
refused to give
only body became fragrant and it was changed to a plant
money, but also insulted the sage. Pro- which is known as (Kozhunnu or
voked at this, Dalbhya Kozhuntu) Dama-
began performing a homa in nakam. (Skanda Purana).
DAMANAKAM 196 DAMAYANTI
DAMANAKAM. The Tatiri tree (Grislea Tomentosa). three sons Dama, Danta and Damana were born to
The ceremony of worshipping this tree is called Dama- them.
nakarohanavidhi. The Grislea tree is supposed to be 3) The Svqyamvara (marriage) of Danwyanti. During
Bhairava, who had been changed to a tree by the curse thisperiod a son named Nala was born to Virascna the
of Siva. A story to this effect occurs in the Puranas. King of Nisadha. The child was an expert in the game
Bhairava was formed from the anger of Siva. Bhairava, of dice and he would speak only truth. He grew up
against the will of Siva, destroyed the devas, and so and became a youth.
Siva cursed him and turned him to a Tatiri tree. It is Once the swans which came to the palace of Dama-
called Damanaka because Bhairava tried to do 'damana' yanti from Nala, began to praise Nala. They sang
(restraint or punishment) to the gods. about the glory of Nala. Nala also knew about the
Bhairava felt sorry at the curse of Siva. He requested beauty and the other good qualities of Damayanti.
Siva to withdraw the curse. At last Siva had pity on him Thus theyfell in love with each other. Nala also started
and said that all would worship Damanaka tree. The forKundinapuri, the capital city of Vidarbha, to marry
method of that worship is called Damanakarohana- Damayanti. The devas (gods) Indra, Agni, Varuna
vidhi. It is given below: and Yama, having heard of the beauty of Damayanti
This tree should be worshipped on the seventh or thir- from Narada, had gone Kundinapurl, to take part
teenth lunar day. The worshipper should go to the in the marriage. On the way they met Nala. They
tree, with those who recite mantras and spells. After
were aware of the fact that Damayanti was in love
the worship is over the worshipper should say, with Nala. So they called Nala and sent him to Dama-
"O,
Tree, which has originated by the power of Hari, you yanti with a message that Damayanti should accept
come to my presence. On behalf of Siva, and by his one of the four gods as her husband. By the boon of
order, I have to take you home." Saying thus the invisibility, given by the Gods, Nala entered the room
tree should be taken home and consecrated in the even- of Damayanti unseen by others and gave the message
to Damayanti. But Damayanti did not agree to it.
ing in accordance with the rituals. In the house, the
Sun, Siva and Agni should be evoked and worshipped The Gods also entered the nuptial hall and took their
and then the root of the tree should be planted in the seats in the shape of four Nalas. Damayanti entered
I* ana (N.E. point) corner of the house and when it the hall with the nuptial garland in her hands. She
is planted, the spell or incantation of Vamadeva Mantra saw five Nalas including the real Nala, and prayed to
or Siromantra should be recited. In the same way the gods to show her the real Nala her lover. So the
the trunk with the branches of the tree is planted on devas assumed their real forms and Damayanti put
the Northern part. The fallen leaves and flowers the garland on the neck of the real Nala and accepted
should be placed on the eastern side. When the root him as her husband. Being much pleased with the be-
is planted the following prayer should be uttered :
haviour and character of both Nala and Damayanti,
the four gods blessed them. Agni promised to be near
Amantritosi deve.ia
Nala whenever he thought of him. Yama said that
pratah kale maya prabho/
Nala would always be righteous. Varuna said that
Kartavyastapaso labhah
Purnarh sarvarh tavajnaya.// Nala would obtain water at the thought of it. Indra
blessed him saying that he would get moksa immedia-
After that at dawn he should take bath and with obla-
tely after the completion of a yaga. The gods remained
tions of sweet-smelling flowers etc. should worship
Siva. This is Damanakarohanavidhi.
till the end of the
marriage ceremony and then they
(Agni Purana, departed. Nala and Damayanti lived in Kundinapurl.
Chapter 80).
DAMAYANTI Daughter of Bhlma the King of Vidar- 4) The haired between Kali and Dvapara. Hearing about
bha. The most noble the Indian heroines, Dama-
of all the Svayarhvara of Damayanti Kali and Dvapara
yanti has secured a place in the literatures of almost started for Kundinapurl. On the way they met Indra
all the languages in the world. The famous hero Nala and the other gods, who were returning from the marri-
her huband.
age of Damayanti. They told Kali and Dvapara that
is
1
) The background of the story of Nala. During the time Damayanti had accepted Nala as her husband. Kali
of the forest life of the Pandavas, Arjuna had gone to and Dvapara got angry at this and returned saying
Kailasato do penance before Siva for getting divine that they would destroy the kingdom of Nala. After
weapons. The rest of the Pandavas spent the time that Kali waited for a chance to enter the body of
till the arrival of Arjuna, in sorrow and sadness. Nala. After twelve years, once Nala, after passing
They
spent miserable days one by one. At that time the her- urine, without washing his legs performed his evening
mit Brhadasva visited them. They welcomed the worship. At that moment Kali entered the body of
hermit. In the midst of their conversation Dharma- Nala. With that Nala became bereft of all senses of
putra told the hermit with tears that he was the most righteousness and duty, and challenged his younger
unhappy man in the world. Hearing this the hermit brother Puskara to a game of dice. Puskara engaged
told them the story of Nala, to console the Pandavas. Nala in the game of dice. Kali stood in the shape of
2 ) The birth of Damqyanti. The King Bhlma of Vidar- an ox as helper of Nala. Nala lost his kingdom in the
bha was childless for a long time. While the King was game. Seeing that her husband was being defeated
spending sorrowful days, as he had no children, a continuously, Damayanti sent for the charioteer Vars-
hermit named Dama reached his palace. The King neya and sent her son Indrasena and daughter Indra-
welcomed the hermit. Seeing the sorrow of the King the sena to Kundinapurl. After leaving the children at Kundi-
hermit blessed the King and the queen, and as a result napurl Varsneya engaged himself in a travel. After
a daughter named Damayanti and as her brothers visiting several countries he reached Ayodhya and
DAMAYANTI 197 DAMAYANTI
became the charioteer of King Rtuparna. her the attendant of her daughter Sunanda.
5) Nala and Damayanti to the forest. Puskara got the 7) Nala in Ayodhyd. Nala filled with sorrow was walk-
kingdom, wealth and everything that his elder brother, ing along the forest when he saw a wild fire. From the
Nala, had possessed. The miserable Nala left every- midst of the fire somebody was calling Nala by name
thing he had and clad in only one cloth got out of the and crying. When Nala approached the fire, he saw
palace. His wife Damayanti followed him. They stayed the great and famous serpent Karkotaka lying entwined
outside the city for three days. Puskara made a pro- in the flames. Karkotaka the King of the Nagas had
clamation that if anybody rendered any help to Nala once deceived Narada, who then cursed him that he
he would be ruthlessly put to death. After that Nala stay- would become stationary in a place like an immovable
ed there for three more days, with only water for food thing till Nala came and rescued him. From that day
and drink. Then he went to the forest. His wife followed onwards, Karkotaka was remaining in that forest with-
him. They were hungry. Nala saw some golden birds. out moving. Then the forest caught fire. Karkotaka
Nala wanted to catch them for food. So he took his being unable to move had to remain in the fire. Nala
only cloth and spread it on the ground. The birds immediately saved Karkotaka from the fire and with
took that cloth and flew away. Those birds were the that he was absolved from the curse of Narada. Kar-
dices used in the game. They were influenced by kotaka asked Nala to walk forward, counting the steps.
Kali. The miserable and hungerstricken Nala asked When Nala counted ten, Karkotaka bit on the leg of
his wife Damayanti to go with the caravan traders Nala and he became ugly. Then the serpent said to
who were going to Avanti and save herself. But she the flurried Nala, "Don't fear. I have made you ugly
did not consent to go away from him. so that others may not recognize you. Now you are
They spent that night in an inn. They both fell asleep ugly because of my poison. But my poison has affected
because of weakness. After a time Nala woke up. Kali who is in your body. Because he had harmed
He thought that his wife would somehow or other you who are blameless, he has to suffer for it. So long
get to some country closeby and save herself, if he as this poison is in you, nobody will harm you. You
left her there. So he decided to take half of her cloth. must go to Rtuparna the King of Ayodhya and tell
How to do it without her knowledge ? Thinking so he him that you are Bahuka a charioteer. You must give
walked round the inn. He saw a good sword. He Ktuparna the spell 'ASvahrdaya mantra' and get
took the sword, and cut half of the cloth of Damayanti from him the spell 'Aksahrdayamantra'. After that
and leaving her in the inn he went away. you will have reunion with your wife and children.
In a short while she woke up and missing her husband Here are two cloths for you. Whenever you want
she cried aloud and ran here and there in search of to get your original form you need only wear them."
him. Then she went into the forest crying. A big snake Saying these words Karkofaka gave Nala two divine
caught hold of her and began to swallow her. She cried garments and then disappeared.
aloud. Hearing the cry, a forester came there. He Nala started for Ayodhya. He reached the palace
cut the snake open and saved Damayanti. But when on the tenth day. There he was employed as the horse
he saw her he became overpowered by libido and keeper of Rtuparna on a pay of hundred pieces of gold.
tried to make her his wife. She got angry and cursed Thus he stayed there under the name Bahuka. Varsneya
him and he instantly fell down dead. After this she and JIvala who were the horse-keepers of Rtuparna
began to wander in the forest aimlessly, often seeing upto that time, were placed under Bahuka.
wild animals and fearing them. At last she got on a Bahuka used to recite a poem every evening when he
rock and sat there and began to wail thinking of Nala. returned from his work.
6) Damayanti in the kingdom of Cedi. While she was Weary and worn of hunger and thirst,
sitting on the rock wailing, a caravan of traders came That poor woman, where might she be ?
by that way. They had been attacked by a herd of Serving whom will she be now.
elephants and were running away from them. They Thinking of the unlucky fool ?
saw Damayanti. She told them her story. They brought Hearing this song of lamentation everyday, once his
her to the kingdom of Cedi. She wandered through assistant JIvala asked Bahuka, whom he was reciting
the country for a while and finally reached the palace the poem about. Bahuka replied "Once there was
:
of the King Subahu. Thinking her to be a mad wo- a man who was a fool. He got a good wife. For some
man the street boys were following her. The queen reason they were separated. The fool is still wandering
saw the woman surrounded by street boys and felt about weary and sad in search of his wife.".
pity for her. She sent her maid and brought her to 8) Damayanti in Kundinapura. At this time Dama-
the palace. Without revealing that she was the queen yanti was living in the palace of the King of Gedi,
of King Nala, she told everything else to the queen. as the maid of princess Sunanda. King Bhlma became
The queen consoled her and said that she would get her very sorry not knowing where Nala and Damayanti
husband back. She invited Damayanti to stay in the had gone. He sent men in all directions to search for
palace till she got her husband back. Damayanti them. The King proclaimed that those who found
replied as follows :
"Mother, I shall stay here. But them would be awarded thousand cows, lands assigned
there are certain conditions. I won't eat remains and to Brahmins, and villages. He proclaimed that so
offals of victuals, I won't make others to wash my legs. many cows would be given even to those who could
I won't talk with men who are not related to me. If give any information about them. Hearing this Brah-
anybody hankers after me you must order him to be manas went in all directions and Sudeva, one of them,
killed. Brahmanas may come and see me only in con- reached the Kingdom of Gedi. He recognized Dama-
nection with the search for my husband. This is my yanti who was like fire inside the cover of smoke. When
vow." The queen agreed to her conditions and made Damayanti was alone Sudeva approached her and
DAMAYANTI DAMAYANTI
said that he had come from Vidarbha and that he was moment Nala learned Aksahrdaya Kali vomitted
a friend of Damayanti's brother. Damayantl recog- the poison of Karkotaka and got out of the body of
nized Sudeva and she cried aloud. Sunanda who saw Nala. Long ago, the mother of Indrasena, a god, had
this scene, told her mother about it. The cursed Kali and drove him out. Since then Kali had
queen sent
for Sudeva and asked him what the matter was. He been living in the body of Nala. As soon as he came
revealed everything about Damayanti, to the out Kali
queen. begged Nala for pardon. Nala curbed his
When they heard the story all the women in the harem anger. But Kali was afraid of Nala. So he made the
cried. Then with tears the queen said, "Hear this, Tanni tree his abode. Because of that Tanni became
Damayanti, your mother and myself are the two daugh- detestable.
ters of Sudama the
King of Dasarna. Father gave Rtuparna, Varsneya and Bahuka reached Kundina-
your mother to Bhima the King of Vidarbha and me pura in the evening. When the sound of the chariot
to Vlrabahu the King of Cedi. I have seen of Nala reached the cars of Damayanti her heart bumped
you when
you were an infant." with joy. The chariot was stopped and Rtuparna
When the King of Cedi knew everything he sent Dama- entered the The King Bhima
palace. welcomed
yanti in a palanquin to Vidarbha. Rtuparna As there was no sign of any prepara-
heartily.
9) The search for Nala. Damayanti told her father tion for the svayaihvara (marriage) Rtuparna under-
that she didn't want to live any longer unless Nala stood that some sort of trick had been played on him.
was brought to her. Bhima had been
trying hard to 10) Test of Nala. Damayanti sent her maid Kesini
find out Nala. One day Parnada one of the numerous to Bahuka to watch him. Kesini had a secret talk
Brahmins who were engaged in the search for Nala, with Bahuka. Though Nala did not reveal himself,
came to Bhima and said, "while I was wandering from he cried when she talked about Damayanti. Kesini
place to place, I happened to reach the palace of Rtu- returned to Damayanti and told her what she had
parna the King of Ayodhya. There I made enquiries heard and seen. Damayanti became more and more
about Nala the husband of Damayanti, in the pre- convinced that Bahuka was Nala himself So she sent
sence of the King. But nobody gave me any answer. Kesini again to Nala. She discovered the following
When I returned Bahuka the charioteer of Rtuparna facts about Bahuka, after a keen observation, and
followed me. An ugly man with short hands, an ex- made a report of them.
pert in driving horses, and an excellent cook, he asked (
1
) Bahuka does not stop to pass through even a small
me several questions about Damayanti." door. The upper sill lifts by itself for him to pass
When Damayanti heard this she had horripilation. through.
She secretly went to her mother and compelled her (2 ) He gets enough room for him to pass through even
to send Sudeva the Brahmana to Ayodhya. Her mother a big crowd.
consented. She called Sudeva, in the presence of her (3) Empty pots are filled with water at a look from him.
mother and told him to go to Ayodhya and tell Rtuparna (4) When he stretches out a grass to the sun, it catches
that the second svayarhvara (marriage) of fire.
Damayanti
would take place before sunrise next day and that (5) Fire does not burn him even if he touches it.
he should come earlier. Sudeva instantly went to (6) When
he crushes a flower, it blooms more beauti-
Ayodhya. ful and fragrant than before.
Rtuparna, hearing the words of Sudeva, wanted When Kesini said all these facts to Damayanti, she
Bahuka to take him in the chariot to Vidarbha within became fully convinced that Bahuka was none other
the period of a day time for the second svayamvara than Nala himself. Damayanti sent Kesini again to
of Damayanti. Nala consented with a breaking heart. Bahuka to get some meat cooked by him. Damayanti
Immediately they started. Varsneya also got into tested the taste of the meat brought by Kesini and
the chariot. The chariot flew through the sky with she knew that the food was cooked by Nala. She
tremendous speed, to Vidarbha. On the way the upper sent Kesini again to Bahuka with her children. See-
garment of the King fell on the ground. He ordered ing Indrasena and Indrasena coming to him, Bahuka
the chariot to be stopped for taking his upper garment. ran to them, gathered them and embraced them and
Nala said that within that winking time the chariot cried aloud. Then he told Kesini that he had done
had travelled a yojana (league) and gloried in his so because the children were just like his two child-
power of driving horses. Then they saw in the forest ren.
a Tanni tree (Terminalia bellerica) with fruits. 1 1 ) Reunion. After having tested Bahuka so far Dama-
Seeing
the Tanni tree the King said, "O Bahuka, if yanti sent Kesini to her mother to tell her everything,
you are
an expert in horse-driving I am an expert in reckoning. and to say that she was convinced of the fact that
I will tell
you how many leaves and nuts there are Bahuka was none other than Nala and that the diffe-
in that Tanni Tree. There are five crores of leaves in rence was only in shape and to request that she may
both the branches together and two thousand and be permitted to see Bahuka in person. The queen
ninetyfive nuts. They stopped the chariot and checked informed the King of all these facts. With the permis-
the tree and found the reckoning of the sion of her parents Bahuka was brought to the room
King correct.
The King had the knowledge of the art called 'Aksahr- of Damayanti. The moment Bahuka saw Damayanti
daya'. It was with this art that the king calculated he began to shed tears. Damayanti also was filled
the number of leaves in the tree, at one look. Bahuka with emotion. But she told him thus :
drove the chariot with the speed of wind because he had "Bahuka, have you seen a man who had left his sleep-
known the art called 'Anvahrdaya'. Then and there, ing wife in the forest ? Who else, but Nala the famous
Bahuka taught the King the art of 'Asvahrdaya' and and the righteous would discard his blameless and
the King taught Bahuka the art of 'Aksahrdaya'. The loving wife who had been- sleeping, with fatigue and
DAMAYANTI II 199 DANAM
hunger in a lonely place ? Have I done anything hermits. Finally the emperor admitted failure and
wrong to him in my younger days so that he should bowed before the hermits. They advised him not to be
leave me in the forest when I was sleeping ? Leaving arrogant in future and to lead a pure life. Hearing the
aside real gods I married him. I worshipped, him. I had exhortations of the hermits the emperor became a
children from his blood and now he has abandoned devoted man. He returned to his palace and led a life
me. In the presence of Gods and with fire as witness, of righteousness. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 96).
holding my hands he had taken a vow that he would DAMI. A famous holy place. Brahma usually sits in this
support and protect me. Where has that vow gone ?" place and worships Mahesvara. In Mahabharata,
At these words Bahuka shed tears for a long time. Vana Parva, Chapter 82, Stanza 72, it is mentioned that
Then he told her all that had happened to him since all the sins of those who bathe in this place will be washed
their separation. Damayanti requested Nala, not to
away.
have any misconception regarding the idea of a second DAMS A. The giant who took birth as the worm 'Alark-
svayamvara; she said to him that she committed no karh'.This giant came in the shape of a beetle and pier-
wrong and that her fidelity and loyalty had undergone ced the leg of Karna, the disciple of Paras' urama.
no change. At that time Vayu (the wind-god) in an Darhsa once kidnapped the wife of Bhrgu, and the hermit
etherial voice said "Damayanti has committed no cursed the giant and turned him to a beetle. He also
sin". Immediately Nala put on the divine clothes said that Parame&vara would absolve him from the
given by Karkotaka and regained his original form. curse. (See Karna, Para 4).
Damayanti embraced Nala and cried aloud. The king DAMODARA. Sri Krsna. When Sri Krsna was a small
her father, mother and the people of the city all ran boy, Yasoda tied him to a mortar-stone. The boy ran
to them. about, dragging the heavy stone with him and the rope
Next day Rtuparna returned. After a few days Nala still remained round his
snapped. Part of the rope
collected an army consisting of three hundred soldiers, abdomen. From that he got the name Damodara.
sixteen elephants, fifty horses and a white chariot only, "Dama" means rope and "Udara" means abdomen.
from Vidarbha and went to the kingdom of Nisadha. (See Krsna).
Reaching there Nala challenged Puskara for a game of DAMO 5.1. A sage in the assembly of Yudhisthira.
dice. Puskara refused the challenge. Nala took his Once he met Krsna who was on his way to Hastina-
Sri
sword to cut Puskara into two. Finally Puskara agreed pura. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 13).
to play. At the first cast of the dice the life and the DANADARI. A town in ancient India. (M.B. Bhlsma
Kingdom of Puskara fell into the hands of Nala. But Parva, Chapter 50, Verse 52).
Nala did not kill Puskara; instead, he embraced him. DANAM. In ancient India a spiritual significance
Gift.
Nala became King. Damayanti and the children reached was attached danam. (offering of a free gift). One
to
Nisadha. Nala ruled the country with more happiness who gave water was said to achieve contentment; one
and prosperity than before. (Mahabharata, Vana who gave food, eternal happiness; one who gave land,
Parva, Chapters 52 to 79). government of the country; one who gave gold would
DAMAYANTI II. The daughter of Pramloca. See attain longevity; one who gave a house would get
Visvakarma, 2nd para. domestic felicity one who gave silver would get physical
;
DAMBARA. One of the two attendants given by Brahma beauty; one who gave clothes would reach candraloka;
to Subrahmanya. The other attendant's name is Adarh- one who gave a horse would attain the world of the
bara. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 39). Asvinidevas; one who gave bulls would get prosperity;
DAMBHA. A danava or asura. Darhbha was the son of one who gave cows would reach suryaloka; according to
Vipracitti an asura born to Kasyapa by his wife Danu. Manusmrti.
This Darhbha is the father of Sarikhacuda, an asura. Varidastrptimapnoti
Darhbha received from their teacher Sukra, the spell Sukhamaksayyamannadah /
known as the famous Visnumantra and went to Puskara- Tilapradah prajamistam
tlrtha and did penance there for one lac of years. It was Dlpadascaksuruttamam //
due to this penance that the son Sankhacuda was born Bhumido Bhumimapnoti
to him. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 9). Dirghamayur hiranyadah /
DAMBHODBHAVA. See Parasurama, Para 10, subsec- Grhadogryani vesmani
tion 2. Rupyado rupamuttamam //
DAMBHODBHAVA. An ancient emperor. He was a Vasodas candrasalokya-
mighty warrior prince. He brought the whole world Masvisalokyamasvadah /
under control. At last there was nobody left to fight Anaduddah Sriyampustam
with. So he walked about challenging everybody he met Godo bradhnasya vistapam //
with. But none dared to fight with him. Then Brahma (Manusmrti, Chapter 4).
advised him to challenge Nara Narayanas who were According to Manu, the Acarya, the rewards obtained by
doing penance on the northern-most point of the earth. offering the following articles as "Danam" are as
So the emperor went with his mighty army to Gandha- follows :
madana and informed Nara and Narayana of his desire Articles offered as Danam Reward obtained by data
to fight. They said that they were mere hermits and
(giver).
that they had no power to fight. But Daihbhodbhava was Vehicle bed Virtuous wife.
not satisfied. Finally Nara and Narayana took some Refuge (shelter) Prosperity.
isikagrass and began to fight the emperor with it. Corn Eternal happiness.
Though the army of the emperor was mighty and vast Brahmajnana Brahmasayujya.
it could not stand against the grass in the hands of the
(See also Naksatrayoga and Merudana).
DANAVA 200 DANDADHARA I
DANAVA. Danavas are the sons born toKasyapa Praja- drawing of his legs. He broke the lock with an iron rod
his wife Danu and their descendants. (See and entered the temple. Inside the temple he saw Krsna,
pati by
under Danu). clad in yellow robes lying on a beautiful cot, with his
DANAYUS. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. Kasyapapra- spouse Radha. The thief instantly bowed before the
japati married Danayus. Four sons Viksara, Bala, spouse of Radha. By this act his sins were washed away.
Still impelled by his evil nature, he took the silk garment
Vira and Vrata were born to her. (M.B. Adi Parva,
of Krsna, spread it on the ground, collected as many
Chapter 65).
DAIiDA I. A king who was the son of Iksvaku. It is things as he could take, placed them in the garment and
mentioned Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 67,
in making them into a bundle, got out of the temple
Stanza 45, that this King was the rebirth of Krodha- with shaky feet. The bundle fell on the ground with a
loud noise. Hearing the noise the neighbours woke up
hanta, an asura.
1 Birth. Iksvaku had one hundred sons. Of them and looked out. The thief began to run and was bitten
by a poisonous snake and fell down dead. The men of
)
Those who bathe in this holy place will get the fruits of
Svayarhvara (the marriage of Draupadi).
2 Other information. (
1
)
Bhimasena defeated the giving a thousand cows as Gift. (M.B.
Vana Parva,
)
King Danda. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 307, Stanza Chapter 85, Stanza 15).
177).
DANDAM III. One of the four expedients. The four
expedients are Sama, Dana, Bheda and
Danda. A king
(2 ) This King Danda
was the brother of Dandadhara,
the king of Magadha. Dandadhara and Danda were should subdue an enemy by resorting to these four
killed by Arjuna in battle. (M.B. Kama Parva, Chapter expedients. Of the four expedients,
sama and danda
are considered to be the best.
18, Stanza 16).
DANTJA III. An attendant of the Sun. (M.B. Vana Samadinamupayanarh
Parva, Chapter 3, Stanza 68). Caturnamapi panditah /
robbery. When he reached the steps of the temple he 67, Stanza 46).
wiped his legs which were wet, on the ground and a 2) Bhimasena, during his conquest of the countries,
small depression that was there, was levelled by the overcame King Dandadhara and his brother Danda.
DANDADHARA II 201 I II
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 30, Stanza 17). danda (medium punishment) and fining upto thou-
3) In the battle between the Pandavas and the Kaura- sand panas was called Uttama Sahasa danda
(highest
vas, Dandadhara fought from the back of an elephant degree of punishment). If a man complains to
against the Pandavas. When Dandadhara began to the King that his property is stolen, when
actually
exterminate the army of the Pandavas, Sri Krsna it is not stolen, the man will be fined the amount
per-
suaded Arjuna to fight against Dandadhara, who was that is said to have been stolen. There was another
killed in the fight. (M.B. Karna
Parva, Chapter 8, law, that the owner of the stolen property and
Stanzas 1 to 13). the thief would have to pay double the amount
DAIVDADHARA II. One of the hundred sons of Dhrta- they admit, if the amount shown in the complaint
rastra. Bhimasena killed this Dandadhara in the battle differed from the actual amount stolen. For
of Kuruksetra. appear-
(M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter 84, Stanza ing as false witness, the three classes of non-Brahmins
were punished with fine and if he was a Brahmin he
DA1VDADHARA III. A king who helped the Pandavas. would have to be cast out of the society. The
King
Very often the name Maniman also occurs along with ordered that if one spent the property entrusted with
the name of Dandadhara. They might have been bro- him for keeping, the owner of the
thers or sons of the same father
property would
by separate mothers. have to be paid double the amount. If one
In the Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 186, Stanza says that
7, he has given the property for keeping when
mention is made that these two had been present at the actually
it is not, the
person will have to be punished as if he
marriage of Draupadl. Dronacarya killed both of them were a thief. If a man spends an amount without
in the battle of Bharata.
(M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter knowing that it was the property of others, the man
6, Stanza 13). will have to be acquitted of the
charge.
DA1VDADHARA IV. A warrior born and bred in the If an artisan has received money in advance for a
parti-
country of Pancala. He kept the rear of the army of cular product and fails to give the
thing at the stipu-
Yudhisthira in the battle of Bharata against the Kau- lated time the King will fine the artisan one svarna.
ravas. He died by an arrow of Karna.
'
criticism of poetry and the use of idioms. The second 1. Ekaksa 6. Tapana
chapter deals with figurative language. The third 2. Amrtapa 7. Sara
chapter deals with alliteration and rhyme and the flaws Pralamba
3. 8. Mahahanu
in poetry. 4. Naraka 9. Garvisfha
'DaJakumaracarita', is supposed to be another work 5. Vatapi 10. Dlrghajihva
of Dandi. (History of Classical Sanskrit Literature). All the danavas or Asuras belong to one of these ten
DANTA.' 'Son of Bhima, King of Vidarbha. This families. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 65).
prince was the brother of Damayanti. (M.B. Vana DANU II. A King. Two sons Rambha and Karambha
Parva, Chapter 53, Verse 9). were born to this king. (See Karambha).
DANTA. An apsaras of Alakapuri. Once she danced DARADA I. King of an ancient country known as Bal-
in honour of the sage Astavakra. (M.B. Anu^asana hika. It is stated in Mahabharata Adi Parva, Chapter 67,
Parva, Chapter 19, Verse 45). Stanza 58 that this King was the incarnation of a portion
DANTADHVAJA. The son of Manu Tamasa. Once of the asura named Surya. At the time of his birth the
Dandadhvaja gave as oblation his flesh and blood earth was cleaved because of his weight.
in fire, to get children. But it was of no use. So he DARADA II. An ancient country in North East India.
put his hair of the body, of the head, his sinews, the The people of this country were called the Daradas. It
marrow of the bones, and liver and sperm in the fire. is mentioned in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 27,
When the sperm was put in the fire there was a voice that Arjuna conquered this country during his conquest
'Don't' and with that the king fell dead. And instantly of countries. The Daradas paid tribute to Yudhisthira.
seven luminous children came out from the fire. They During their forest-life the Pandavas had passed through
began to cry aloud. Hearing their cry Brahma came the country of the Daradas. At the beginning of the
there and anointed them as the Maruts (wind gods). Bharata-battle, the Pandavas had sent invitation to the
They were the maruts of Tamasamanvantara. (Vamana Daradas also. But they fought on the side of the Kauravas.
Purana, Chapter 72). Mention is made in Mahabharata, Drona Parva, Chapter
DANTAVAKTRA I. A Ksatriya king of Karusa. He was 70, Stanza 1 1 that Sri Krsna had conquered the Darada
the rebirth of the daitya (asura) Krodhava?a. (M.B. country. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Drona Parva,
Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Stanza 62). Chapter 121, that in the battle of Bharata the Daradas
DANTAVAKTRA II. He was the rebirth of Vijaya, one of attacked Satyaki and that Satyaki killed them.
the two door-keepers of Mahavisnu, Jaya and Vijaya. DARADA III. A tribe. At first they were Ksatriyas.
(For full particulars see under Jaya). They grew jealous of the Brahmanas and so they were
Dantavaktra was a contemporary king of Sri Krsna. changed to Sudras. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 35,
Dantavaktra died in a battle with Sri Krsna and returned Stanza 17).
to Vaikuntha (the abode of Visnu). DARADAM. A place in ancient India. There is a refe-
DANTIMUKHA. An asura (demon). This asura was rence to this place in Mahabharata, Salya Parva, Chap-
killed in a fight with Subrahmanya. (Skanda Purana, ter 50, Verse 50.
Asura Kanda). DARBHI. An ancient hermit. This hermit built a tlrtha
DANU I. (bath) named Ardhaklla in Kuruksetra. It is believed
1
) Danu, the daughter of Daksa
General information. that anybody who bathed in this place and fasted could
was married to KaSyapa Prajapati. It is mentioned in learn the mantras (spells and incantations) and become
Mahabharata that the Danavas (demons) were born a Brahmana. It occurs in the Puranas that the hermit
from Danu. Darbhi has brought the four oceans to this bath. (M.B.
2) Sons. One hundred sons were born to Danu. The Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Stanza 54).
following are the important among them. DARDDURA. A mountain. The deity of this mountain
1. Vipracitti 3. Namuci is said to be sitting in the council hall of Kubera (the god
2. Sibara 4. Puloma of wealth) and worshipping him, according to Maha-
DARI 203 DASARATHA
bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 1, Stanza 35. DASA. A
term used as a suffix to the name of a Siidra. In
DARI. A serpent born in the family of Dhrtaras{ra. This ancient India the rule was that the proper suffix for a
serpent fell into the sacrificial fire of Janamejayaand was Brahmin's name should be 'Sarma', for a Ksatriya's name,
burnt to death. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 57, 'Varma', for a Vaisya's name, 'Gupta' and for a Sudra's
Stanza 16). name, 'Dasa'. (See under Caturvarnya).
DARIDRA. A king born in the family of Yayati. He DASADRYU. A hermit. It is mentioned in Rgveda,
was the son of Dundubhi and father of Vasu. (Bhaga- Mandala 1, Anuvaka 7, Sukta 33 that Dagadryu was a
vata, Navaina Skandha). valiant hermit.
DARPA. A king of the family of Yayati, (Bhagavata, DASAGRlVA. Ravana. (See under Ravana).
Skandha 9). DASAJYOTI. A
son of the King Subhrat. Mention is
DARSAKA. A country in ancient India. (M.B. Bhisma made about him in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 1,
Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 53). Stanza 44.
DARUKA I. DASAMALIKA. A country in Bharata. (M.B. Bhlsma
1 Sri Krfna's charioteer.
)
In the Mahabharata, we come Parva, Chapter Stanza 66).
9,
across few persons who excel Daruka in their skill as DASAMUKHA RAVANA. Ravana, the enemy of Sri
charioteers. We
find the following details about him in Rama. (See under Ravana).
the Mahabharata : DASANANA. See under Ravana.
1
)
When Krsna fought against King Salva, Daruka
Sri DASARAjA. Foster-father of Santanu's wife, Satyavati.
was over-whelmed by Siilva's arrows. (M.B. Vana Parva, His actual name was Uccaihs ravas. For detailed story
Chapter 21, Verse 5). see under Satyavati.
2) At the time of the battle at Kuruksetra, hearing the DASARAjNA. A
great war which took place in India in
sound of Sri Krsna's conch-shell, Daruka drove his chariot ancient times. It was a terrible clash between the Aryans
and brought it before Sri Krsna. (M.B. Drona Parva, who lived in Pancanada and the primitive inhabitants
Chapter 147, Verse 45). of India, before the Rgveda period. Sudas, the king
3) When Satyaki fought with Karna, Daruka drove was the adversary of the Aryans. Among the relatives of
Siityaki's chariot. At that time he proved his extraordi- Sudas were Aryans and non-Aryans. It was the people
nary skill in charioteering. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter under Sudas who got victory in this war. Anyway,
147, Verse 54). with this war, (Dasarajna), a new mixed race of people
4) After being attended by Daruka, Sri Krsna's chariot came into being in North India, which was composed
horses flew up into the Heavens. (M.B. Mausala Parva, of the Aryans and the primitive inhabitants of the country.
Chapter 3, Verse 5). The Hindus are the descendants of this mixed race.
5) It was Daruka who informed the Pandavas that the (Rgveda).
Yaduvamsa had perished. On his return, he accompani- DASARATHA. (Nemi). A famous king of the Iksvaku
ed Arjuna in his journey to Dvaraka. (M.B. Mausala He was the father of Sri Rama.
dynasty.
Parva, Chapter 5). 1 Descended from Visnu in the following order.
) Genealogy.
DARUKA II. A charioteer of Mahisasura. (Devi Bhaga- Brahma Marici Kasyapa Vivasvan Vaivasvata
Pancama Skandha). For further details about this
vata, Manu Iksvaku Vikuksi Sasada Kakutstha -Ane-
Daruka, see under Ghantakarna. nas Prthulasva Prasenajit Yuvanasva Mandhata
DARUKA III. A son of Garuda. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Purukutsa Trasadasyu Anaranya Haryas v a Vasu-
Chapter 101, Verse 9 contains a reference to this Daruka ) .
manas SudhanvaTraiyyaruna Satyavrata (Trisanku )
DARUYAM. A naraka (hell). See under Naraka. Hariscandra Rohitasva Harita Cuficu Sudeva
DARVA. A Ksatriya king of the land called Darvam. Bharuka Bahuka
Sagara Asamanjas Arhsuman
Opinion is divided as to whether Darvam is the name of Bhaglratha Srtanabha Sindhudvlpa Ayutayus
-
class of Ksatriyas. In Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, hunting. He reached the bank of the river Sarayu.
It was evening and the forest was thick. He walked in
Chapter 52, Stanza 13, it is said that the Ksatriyas of this
search of wild animals. The night was advancing and
family had presented Dharmaputra with a large quan-
darkness getting thicker. Then he heard a sound from
tity of wealth.
DARVl. An ancient town in India. (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, the river as if an elephant was drinking water. Thinking
it to be an elephant DaSaratha sent an arrow in the
Chapter 9, Verse 54).
DARVlSA5lKRAMA!<rA. A holy place. Those who direction from which the sound came. Instantly he heard
visit this place will get the fruits of performing the sacri- a man crying with pain. The king was disappointed.
fice of Asvamedha and will attain heaven. (Mahabha- He ran to the spot and saw a hermit boy lying in a pool
Vana Stanza 45 of blood beating his limbs on the ground and crying.
rata, Parva, Chapter 84, )
.
DASA. A country in Ancient India. (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, The waterpot he had been dipping in the water lay
Stanza close by. In answer to the questions of the King, the
Chapter 9, 56).
It is stated in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 274, Stanza
6 that 'Ilabila, was the name of the mother of Dasaratha.
DASARATHA 204 DASARATHA
hermit boy whose name was Sravana,
1
said, "Oh ciated his valiant fighting and charioteeering and gave
What wrong have I done ? My parents are
him the name 'Dasaratha' (one who is capable of driving
King !
sons of Sumitra were called Laksmana and Satrughna. Yadava was known by the name of DaSarhl.
leaders
(Kariipa Ramayana, Bala Kanda). DASAR&A. An inhabitant of the D;Wirna country.
10) The boon of Sani (Saturn). Astronomers are of This name is also used for addressing King Dasarna.
opinion that famine will occur in the world for the (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 50, Verse 47).
period of twelve years, when the planet Sani (Saturn) DASARNA (M ) An ancient country, famous in the
.
comes into the orbit of Rohini (a star). But now the Puranas.
planet Saturn does not come into the orbit of the star 1
)
General information. This country had been divided
Rohini. There is a story in the Padma Purana, which into two, Eastern Dasarna and Western Dasarna. The
states that this happened so because of a boon Sani had modern Patna and the surrounding places comprised
given to Dasaratha. Eastern Dasarna and the places of Malva, the Western
During the regime of Dasaratha the planet Sani approa- Dasarna. Some are of opinion that Dasarna comprises
ched the orbit of Rohini. Experts in astronomy said that the South-East part of the Vindhya mountain. It is men-
the earth would be ruined by famine etc. if Sani cleft tioned in 'Meghaduta' that VidiSa was the capital of
the star Rohini. Hearing this Dasaratha took his bow Dasarna. The modern name of Vidisa is Bhilsa.
and arrows, got into his chariot, and started for the (2) Other information regarding Dasarna.
firmament. Hetravelled for one lac and a quarter of (1) Mention is made in Mahabharata, Adi Parva,
yojanas (leagues) and reached the hind part of Rohini, Chapter 112, Stanza 25, that once Pandu brought the
which is beyond the sun. Adorned with golden gar- country of Vidisa under subjugation.
ments and a golden crown studded with jewels, seated (2) At another time Bhlmasena conquered the country
on a golden chariot decorated with precious stones, and a of Dasarna. (Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter
lofty flagpost and yoked with horses of the colour of 29, Stanza 5).
swan, the king shone in the sky as a second sun. He drew (3) Nakula once conquered this country. (M.B. Sabha
the bow-string right upto his ear and placed in it the Parva, Chapter 32, Stanza 7).
arrow of destruction. When the devas and the asuras (4) King Sudama ruled over the country ofDasarna.
saw the arrow of destruction they began to tremble with He had two daughters. Bhima, the king of Vidarbha
fear. Sani came to Dasaratha and fell before him and married the first one and Virabahu the king of Cedi
said that he would grant any boon to the King, and married the second daughter. DamayantI was the
requested him to recall the arrow of destruction. DaSa- daughter of Bhima. A daughter named Sunanda was
ratha told Sani that he only wanted Sani not to come to born to Virabahu. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 69).
the orbit of Rohini. Sani agreed. From that day onwards (5) Before the battle of Bharata, Hiranyavarma was the
Sani has never entered the orbit of Rohini. (Padma King ofDasarna. SikhandinI the daughter of Drupada
Purana, Uttara Kanda, Chapter 34). went in the guise of a male and married the daughter
11) Death. Rama and Laksmana with Sita went to of Hiranyavarma. The king of DaSarna who had been
live in the forest. Sumantra who accompanied them deceived thus, attacked Drupada. But the problem was
up to the river Ganges, returned to the palace. By solved because SikhandinI actually became a male. (See
then DaSaratha had fallen down filled with grief. He the word Amba). (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9,
had never recovered from that state of unconsciousness. Stanza 41 ).
At the time of his death Bharata and Satrughna had (6) The king ofDasarna took the side of the Kauravas
been away in the kingdom of Kekaya and Rama and in the battle of Bharata. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter
Laksmana in the forest. Thus the curse he incurred 51, Stanza 12).
in his younger days from the aged hermit, the father of (7) Citrahgada was the king of Dagarna at the time of
Sravana, was fully realized. the AsVamedha sacrifice of Yudhisthira. In Maha-
12) Dasaratha appears again. Ravana was killed in the bharata, A^vamedha Parva, Chapter 83, it is stated that
battle. Sita was tested in fire and found sinless. Rama Arjuna defeated Citrangada.
accepted her, seeing that her conjugal fidelity was not DASASVA. Tenth son of Iksvaku. He ruled over the
marred. At this time Siva appeared before Rama in a city of Mahismatl. It is mentioned in Mahabharata,
divine aeroplane. Dasaratha was seated in that plane Anusasana Parva, Chapter 2, Stanza 6, that DasasVa
clad in pure garments. He took Rama and Laksmana had a son named Madirasva.
into his lap and embraced them. He blessed them and
DASASVAMEDHA. A holy place situated in Kuruksetra.
Sita who was standing with folded hands. Then Dasa-
It stated in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 83,
is
ratha disappeared. (Valmiki Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda, Stanza 14, that those who bathe in this holy place will
Sarga 122). obtain the fruits of giving a gift of thousand cows.
DASARHA. A king of the Yadu family. He was so famous DASASVAMEDHIKA(M). A holy place in Kuruksetra.
that his descendants were called the Dasarhas. As Sri Those who bathe here will attain Supreme Bliss. (M.B.
Krsna was born as a descendant in the line of Dasarha, Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Stanza 64).
Sri Krsna is sometimes called Dasarha, in certain places.
For genealogy see under Yaduvarhsa.
DASAVARA. An asura. Mention is made in Maha-
DASARHl I. A woman Dasarha's family.
to bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 14 that this
belonging asura (demon ) serves Varuna and stays in his palace.
Vijaya, the wife of Drumanyu, Sudeva, the wife of
Vikanthana, Subhamgl, the wife of Kuru, Kunti, the DASERAKA(S). Members of a Ksatriya tribe. (M.B.
wife of Pandu all Yadava women are entitled
these Bhisma Parva, Chapter 50, Verse 47).
to the name Dasarhl. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter DASERAKA(M). A place-name. It is by observing
38). Sravana DvadasI at a spot to the west of this place that a
DASARHl II. In Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Daksina- Vaisya attained moksa (salvation). (See under
tyapatha, Chapter 38 we find that the assembly of the SravanadvadaS I ) .
BASORA 206 DAYAKRAMA
BASORA. A sage. For further details see under on the tip of it. Mandavya lay there in agony.
Saraloma. It was at this time that SllavatI, famous for her
conjugal
DAS I. An important river in India. (M.B. Bhlsma fidelity, went to the house of a harlot, carrying her
Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 31). husband Ugrasravas on her shoulder. When they passed
BASRA. The first of the gods called the Asvinldevas. by that way Ugrasravas scolded Animandavya; getting
The two gods Basra and Nasatya are known by the angry at this Animandavya cursed Ugrasravas that he
collective name Asvinldevas. (M.B. Sand Parva,
Chap- would get his head broken and die before the sun-rise.
ter 208, Stanza 17). SllavatI became very sorry when she heard the curse
BASYU. The ancient dwellers of North India. What and she also cursed. "Let the sun not rise tomorrow".
we see in Rgveda is mostly a history of the Aryans from The sun did not rise next day. Everything in the world
the period of their exodus from the plateau Kumbha was in chaos. The devas were flurried. They went to
Brahma. Brahma took them to Siva. They could not
till
they reached the banks of the Yamuna. The plateau
of Kumbha is Kabul. The Basyus were the first find a solution. So all of them
people approached Mahavisnu.
the Aryans had to confront with after The Trimurtis (three gods) told the devas that the
passing the Indus.
Rgveda bears testimony to the fact that
the civilization problem would be solved, and the devas returned.
of the Basyus was far advanced than that of the Brahma, Visnu and Mahe.wara went to SllavatI. Before
Aryans.
Sambara, King of the Basyus, was the ruler of hundred seeing SllavatI, they went to Anasuya the wife of Atri
cities. All the cities were fortified with and sought her help to persuade SllavatI to recall her
strong walls and
curse. Thus Anasuya and the Trimurtis
fortresses, which are described as 'asvamayl', 'ayasl', approached
SllavatI and spoke compassionate and consolatory words.
'satabhujl' etc. The greatest enemies of the Aryans were
the 'Panis' of these cities. They were a At last SllavatI recalled the curse. The Trimurtis con-
particular class
of people of these cities. In the 'Nirukta of Yaska' it is vinced SllavatI, that Ugrasravas would not die. The
mentioned that panis were traders. Names of many of the pleased Trimurtis asked Anasuya to ask for any boon. She
Kings of the Bisyus occur in the replied that she did not want any boon except that the
Rgveda. Bhuni,
Cumuri, Pipru, Varcas, Sarhbara and such others are the Trimurtis should take birth as her sons. Accordingly
most valiant and mighty among them. The most impor- Mahavisnu took birth as Battatreya, Siva as Burvasas
tant of the several tribes of the Basyus were and Brahma as Candra, in the womb of Anasuya. This
theSimyus, is how
1
the Kikajas, Sigrus and the Yaksus.
They are mentioned Battatreya was born. Battatreya did penance
as the Anasas in the Rgveda. from his childhood and became a hermit. (Brahmanda
(Anasas without nose).
Perhaps their nose was flat more over they are stated as
;
Purana, Chapters 39 to 44).
having dark complexion. So it may be assumed that the 2) Kartavlryarjuna and Dattatreya. When Kartavlryar-
Basyus were Dravidians. They talked a primitive juna became King Battatreya had become very famous.
language, and they despised sacrificial religion. They did Kartavlryarjuna wanted to obtain supernatural powers.
not worship Gods like Indra and others.
They possibly So he called the hermit Garga and asked for his advice.
worshipped the Phallus, Siva, Devi and the like. Garga advised him that Battatreya was the incarnation
BATAKACCHA. An ancient country on the bank of of Visnu and that he would grant his wishes. So Karta-
the river, Narmada. (Kathasaritsagara) .
vlryarjuna and his wife came to the river Narmada,
BATTA (DATTAKA). and taking bath in the river, began to worship Batta-
See under Battatreya.
treya, who was doing penance closeby. Battatreya
BATTAMITRA. This is another name ofSumitra the was pleased and went to Kartavlryarjuna and asked him
King of Sauvlra. Arjuna, during his conquest of the what his desire was. He requested for thousand hands
countries, defeated this King. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chap- and to be a youth for ever, and such other things.
ter 188, Stanza 20).
Dattatreya granted his wishes. After that Kartavlryar-
BATTATMAN. A Visvadeva. (A class of gods concerned juna would very often go to the hermit Dattatreya for
with sacrifice to the manes). (M.B. Anusasana his advice. (Brahma Purana, Chapter 44).
Parva,
Chapter 91, Stanza 34). 3) Cursing Havana. Once Ravana went to the hermit-
BATTATREYA. (BATTA). A hermit famous in the age of Dattatreya. The hermit had placed a waterpot
puranas. purified by reciting spells and incantations. Ravana
1
) Birth. Anasuya, the wife of hermit Atri gave birth stole that waterpot. When the hermit knew this, he
to Battatreya. But
Battatreya was the incarnation of cursed Ravana saying, "Since the water, which was
Mahavisnu. evoked by spells and incantations, has fallen on your
There is a story in Brahmanda Purana how Maha- head, Monkeys will pollute your head by treading on
visnu came to incarnate as Battatreya. it." (Valmlki Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda).
Once there was a hermit called
Animandavya (Manda- 4) Exhortation to the Sadhyas. Mention is made in Maha-
vya). While the hermit was engaged in silent medi- bharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 36, Stanza 4, that the
tation, some robbers passed by that way. The King's
hermit Dattatreya gave exhortations to the Sadhyas (the
men who were chasing the robbers, came to the hermit sons of Dharmadeva by his wife Sadhya).
and asked him about the robbers. The hermit did not 5) A boon for the birth of Nahusa. See Nahusa.
break the silence. The King's men,
thinking the hermit BATTOLI. A son born to hermit Pulastya by his wife
to be the thief bound his hands and
legs and took him to Priti. This Battoli was in his previous birth, Agastya of
the palace. The King ordered the Svayambhuva manvantara. (Visnu Purana, Amsa
Mandavya to be killed by
piercing his body with a trident. Accordingly a trident 1, Chapter 10).
was posted on a hill far away and Mandavya was seated B.1YAKRAMA. (INHERITANCE). Bayakrama is
i. Dattatreya is known by the name 'Datta' also in the Puranas
DAYAKRAMA (INHERITANCE) 207 DEVABHAGASRAUTARSA
the system by which the wealth of
parents is received by ranas contain scientific discussions, about the
origin,
the heirs. The system of inheritance as described
by Manu work or functions, classes.etc. of Devas. The Mantra-
is as follows :
sastra and Tantrasastra deal also about the various sects
1) After the death of the parents, all the children should and class of Devas, their nature, and the worship tp be
divide their wealth among themselves. When either the offered to them etc.
father or the mother is alive, the sons should not take
their wealth. 2) Christian Devas, Satan and devils. Christian religious
books commonly use the term Malakhas for Devas.
2) If the wealth is not divided, the eldest brother should Greek mythology contains a story about the Malakhas,
keep the whole of it in his custody and maintain his who did not obey the orders of Jehovah and how He
brothers and sisters like a father. cursed them, turned them into devils and
flung them into
3) Of the entire wealth, the eldest brother may take one- hell. And, in hell they organised a revolutionary party
twentieth part, the second brother, to fight Jehovah. leaders talked on the subject of
one-fortieth part Many
and the third brother, one-eghtieth part and the balance how to take vengeance on It was nearabout
Jehovah.
is to be divided this
equally among all of them. period that Jehovah created with the dust on earth
4) If there aremore than three sons, the eldest and the Adam as his beloved son and settled him in the garden of
youngest may take one-twentieth and Aden. God created from the ribs of Adam the woman
one-eightieth (of
the entire wealth) called Eve, and they Jived in Eden
respectively, and each of the other quite happily.
brothers may take one-fortieth. The rest of the pro- Satan and other leaders in hell decided that the
greatest
perty must be divided equally among all of them. revenge that could be taken upon Jehovah was to create
5) After dividing like this, if there are unmarried troubles for his dear son, Adam in Eden.
sisters, Accordingly
each of the brothers should give one-fourth of his share Satan went to Eden and made Adam and Eve eat the
for their marriage. forbidden fruit with the result that Jehovah cursed and
turned them into human
6) The ornaments which the mother had received beings and turned them out of
by Eden. Milton in his reputed poem Paradise Lost has told
way of her dowry etc. may be taken after her death
by the above story in inimitable
her unmarried daughters. language.
7) If, after his marriage, one of the brothers
dies, the
3 ) Indian Devas.
_
Most of the Indian Devas are the sons
brother who keeps his movable and immovable of KaSyapa Prajapati by Aditi,
daughter of Daksa Praja-
proper-
ties, must beget children by the brother's wife and hand pati. The total number of Devas is 33 crores. The Devas
over the above properties to her issue. are divided into many classes or sections like
(See under Adityas,
Manusmrti). Visvadevatas, Vasus, Tusitas, Abhasvaras, Anilas, Maha-
DAYANAKSETRA. A famous temple of Goddess Diana rajikas, Sadhyas, Rudras, Vidyadharas, Pitrdevas etc.
in Epheseus. In Greek mythology Diana There are further divisions like Apsaras,
(Dayana) is Virupaksas,
the goddess of Bhadras, Gandharvas, Kurhbhandas, Raksasas, Nagas,
hunting. She is also identified with the
Moon Goddess. Being a virgin goddess, she came to be As"vin!s, Kinnaras, Kirhpurusas, PKacas, Guhyakas,
worshipped by virgins who regarded her as their patron. Siddhas, Caranas, Matrs, Kusmandas, Bhutas, Vetalas,
etc. Yet another division is into
Dayana (Diana) is one of the beautiful daughters of the Lokapalas, Lipikas etc.
The Devas are classified with special reference to
supreme God, Zeus. Her idol was worshipped in many
places in Greece. There was a famous temple of this god- bhutaganas like Prthvi etc. and are, therefore, referred
dess in the town of Epheseus. This to as Bhudevatas, Agnidevatas, etc. The
temple was destroyed Vayudevatas,
in the 3rd
Century B.C. by enemies. presiding _spirit of Bhudevatas is Kubera, that of the
DEVA Gods or deities. Jaladevatas is Varuna, that of the Agnidevatas, Vayu-
(S).
bhagavan and that of the Akas'adevatas, Indra. And,
1 General information.
) From time immemorial belief in under them there are various sets of Devas in charge of
Devas has existed in every country and all
religions have different departments. Sadhyas, Vasus,
Adityas, Apsaras
lauded their superior nature and It was the are Akas"adevas, Maruttas and
power. etc.
Gandharvas,
Hindus and the Buddhists who first applied the term 'Deva'
Vayudevas. Yaksas and Yaksis are servants of
to certain very subtle
beings recognised in all religions. Kubera. Virupaksa, Bhadra etc. are Bhudevas.
The Parsi religion (Zaratustra) has spoken about seven
Virupaksa supports the earth according to the Valmiki
Devarajans and their attendants. 'Ames pentas' is the Purana. Those who protect nidhis (treasures) may also
actual term used for the
Devaraja. The Christian reli- be considered Bhumidevas.
gion refers to nine sects of Devas like Srafi, Kherubi, There are 33 bosses or presiding spirits for the 33 crores
Dominion, Angel etc. Islam refers to four chief Devas of Devas. Dvadar'adityas (12) Ekada>'arudras
(11)
viz. Gabriel, the
presiding Deva over revelations, Mik- Astavasus (8) and Asvinldevas (2) are the 33 chiefs of
hayel of protection, Asriyal of death and Israfin of resur- Devas. Indra is the chief of all of them.
ruction. An important section of the
Rgveda is Suktas The term Deva. The word Deva means
about Devas like Indra, Mitra, Varuna, 4) light and
Agni etc. In also Devas shine
Yajnas etc. Devas occupy a very important place. The play. forth,they are also playful.
Thus the name is quite apt for them. (See Grama-
Kcnopanisad states that the conceited and haughty Devas
were taught a lesson by God. The subject matter of the devata).
Kathopanisad is the advice given by Yama to Naciketas. DEVABHAGA. A king of the Yayati dynasty. (Bhaga-
The Mundakopanisad says that the Devas, man and vata Navama Skandha).
birds originated from God. 1 There are references about DEVABHAGASRAUTARSA. A rsi, the son of S~ruta
Deva worship in the Smrtis. The Puranas and and learned He had
Upapu- in yajnas. accurate knowledge as to
i. Tasmacca devah bahudha samprasutah sadhyafr
paavo vayarhsaji.
DEVABHRAT 208 DEVADATTA II
which parts of the yajna-cow should be distributed to nearby the temple. After conducting Puja in the shade
whom, and till death he did not impart this knowledge of a fig tree with offerings of Payasa and VaiSva-
to anyone. But, sometime afterwards a non-human devabali the muni told Devadatta thus: "You should
individual taught the subject to Girija, son of Babhru. come here daily and perform puja like this, and pray
(Aitareya Brahmana). at the close of it, 'Oh Vidyutprabha please accept my
! !
At the time when the Srnjayas and the Kuru kings were puja.'
living in amity consequent upon the daksayana yajna Devadatta acted according to the above advice of the
it was Devabhaga who acted as the priest of both
this muni, and one day, at the close of his puja the tree broke
the parties. His theories on Sfivitragni are quoted in open into two and a beautiful female who appeared from
Brahmana. it took him with her saying that her mistress wanted him.
Taittirlya
DEVABHRAT. An effulgent Devata who was the son of
He was thus taken to a house studded with gems wherein
Ravi and father of Subhrat. (Adi Parva, Chapter 1 ;
he saw a noble lady seated on a cot. She caught Deva-
Verse 42). datta by his hands and after seating him alongside said
to him: "I am Vidyutprabha, daughter of the Yaksa
DEVADARSA. An acarya in the line of Vyasa's disciples,
He was the disciple of Kabandha, and he had many king Ratnavarsa. I am a virgin girl. Muni Jalapada
has worshipped me so much that I have decided to
disciples. Medha, Brahmabali, Sautayana andPippa- fulfil his desire. I am in love with you and you will
lada were chief among those disciples. (See genealogy
of Gurus). please wed me."
The muni accepted Devadatta as his .sisya and promised DEVADATTA II. A king of ancient India, son of King
to secure vidyadharahood for him. Jayadatta. Jayadatta wanted to marry his son Devadatta
Next night Jalapada led Devadatta to a burning ghat, to the daughter of a Vaigya in Pataliputra. Though it
DEVADATTA III 209 DEVAKI
was a far cry from Pataliputra to Jayadatta's court the father of King Paramesthi. (Bhagavata Pancama
Vaisya married his daughter to the prince as he attached Skandha).
much importance to such an alliance with the King. DEVADYUTI. A Rsi who dwelt in his a-'rama on the
From the dowry given by the Vaisya to his daughter banks of river Sarasvati. Owing to the blessing of Visnu
the resources of her father appeared to be very meagre a son called Sumitra was born to him. As a result of his
to Devadatta. doing rigorous tapas for 1000 years he shone with a
After some time Devadatta's wife returned to her house rare effulgence. Though Visnu appeared to him one
with the permission of her husband. During her absence day in the month of VaiSakha and asked him to choose
Jayadatta expired, enemies attacked his kingdom and any boon he wanted, he, who was so much detached in
Devadatta with his mother ran away from his kingdom. life prayed only for devotion to God. (Padma Purana,
Sometime after that he started for his wife's house. But, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 212).
feeling that it would not be proper for him to personally DEVAGA1VA. See Manvantara.
tell his father-in-law about what had happened to him DEVAGARBHA. A Rsi. He too was present as one of
he waited outside an inn near his wife's house, and he the hotrs (Priests) at the yajfta conducted by Brahma
had not waited there for long when he saw a woman at the Puskara temple. (Padma Purana, Srsti Khanda,
descending by a cord from the other door of the house. Chapter 34).
He felt deeply mortified to detect that it was his wife DEVAGRAHA. An evil planet. Devagraha dardana
who was thus descending. And, when she, not recognis- (seeing this planet) will lead to insanity. (Vana Parva,
ing Devadatta in his dirty clothes, asked him who he Chapter 23, Verse 47).
was, he answered a 'traveller'. Taking no notice of this DEVAHAVYA. A sage, a member of Indra's assembly.
'traveller' she got into the inn, and Devadatta followed (Sabha Parva, Chapter 7).
her. Inside the inn she was met by a man who beat her DEVAHOTRA. A maharsi, who was an honoured
for being late to
go to him; but, in spite of the beating member at the
yajna performed by Uparicaravasu.
she pleased him with coy words. Then and there Deva- (Sand Parva, Chapter 336, Verse 9).
datta divorced her in his mind, but remained there DEVAHRADA (M). A tlrtha centre on the heights of
observing their love-making. In the course of their love- Mount Kalanjara. A dip in its holy waters will bring the
play an ear-ring studded with costly gems rolled down same result as the dana (gift) of a thousand cows.
the floor from her ears, but she did not notice it. She (Vana Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 56).
parted from her paramour before dawn. Devadatta DEVAHtTTL A daughter of Svayambhuva Manu, the
went to Kanyakubja with the ear-ring, and there he son of Brahma. The Manu had two sons called Priya-
pledged it for one lakh sovereigns with which money he vrata and Uttanapada and three daughters named
collected an army and conquered back his lost kingdom. Akuti, Devahuti and Prasuti. Akuti was married by
Then he redeemed the pledge and sent the ear-ring to Ruciprajapati and Devahuti by Kardamaprajapati
his father-in-law. The whole incident became
public. and Prasuti to Daksprajapati. Kapila, the mighty
When she realised the fact that the stranger whom she exponent of the Sankhya system of philosophy and great
had met at the inn was her own husband, Devadatta's ascetic was the son born to Kardama by Devahuti.
wife felt so deeply hurt and humiliated that her heart was Kapila taught his mother the world famous Kapila
broken and she died. (Kathasaritsagara, Naravahana- Sastra, (Devibhagavata, Astama Skandha) and when the
datta Janana, Tarariga 1). teaching was over he bade farewell to her and took to
DEVADATTA III. Father of the reputed muni Utatthya. forest life. And, his mother performed a yajna on the
(Satyatapas). (See lines advised by her son, on the banks of river Sarasvati.
Satyatapas.)
DEVADATTA (M). The divine conch of Arjuna. Maya Because she took three baths daily her hairs became a
got this conch from Varuna and he kept it in the sabha mixture of black and blue in colour and she got emacia-
of Vrsaparvan, which was in Bindusaras on Mount ted due to fasting. She wore the bark of trees. Deva-
Mainaka Mount Kailasa. When Maya
to the south of huti, who realised all the principles and the truth be-
built the
palace at Indraprastha for the Pandavas he
came blind to all external objects like gardens, maids,
went to Bindusaras and brought for Arjuna that conch mansions etc. Thus immersed in meditation she in
called Devadattam, and a club for Bhimasena.
(Sabha course of time attained siddhi (realisation). The parti-
Parva, Chapter 3). cular spot on the banks of Sarasvati where she attained
In the battle of Kuruksetra
Arjuna mounted a white Siddhi is called Siddhapada.
horse and blew his conch Dtvadattam. Parva,
(Bhisma DEVAHVAYA. A
king in ancient India. (Adi Parva,
Chapter 25, Verse 14). Chapter Verse 235).
1,
DEVADHIPA. A king who in his previous life was an DEVAKA I. A king in ancient India. Born in the Yayati
asura. _(Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 26). dynasty he shone like Indra (Adi Parva, Chapter 67).
DEVADUTA. A messenger of theDevas. When Dharma- He was the brother of Ugrasena, father of Karhsa, and
putra refused to live in heaven without his brothers the father of Devaki, the mother of Krsna. (Sabha
like Kama it was this Devaduta with whom Indra sent Parva, Southern Text, Chapter 22).
Dharmaputra to Karna and others. (M.B. Svarga- DEVAKA II. A king in ancient India. He fostered a
rohana Parva, Chapter 2, Verse 14). This Devaduta girl born to
a brahmin by a Sudra woman. It was this
is to be meditated
upon at dawn and before sun-set girl whom Vidura married. (Adi Parva, Chapter 113,
everyday. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 165, Verse 14). Verse 12).
DEVADYUMNA. A king of the dynasty of Bharata. DEVAKA III. A king, a contemporary of the Pandavas.
From Bharata, son of Rsabha, was born Sumati, from (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 41, Verse 17).
Sumati Devajit and from him Devadyumna was born. DEVAKI. Mother of Sri Krsna.
Devadyumna was the grand-father of King Pratlpa and 1
) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus : Brahma
DEVAKSATRA 210 DEVANIKA
Atri Candra Budha Pururavas Ayus DEVAKCTA II. A holy place. A dip in the sacred
-- Yadu - waters at this is equal in its effects to that of an
Nahusa Yayati Sahasrajit Satajit place
Dharman Kuni Bhadrasena Dhanaka Asvameclha the family of such persons
Moreover
Hehaya yajfia.
Krtavlrya Kartavlryarjuna Madhu -- Vrsni also will prosper. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Verse
washed in her previous life the holy feet of Mahavisnu, Vasudeva and father of King Surasena. (Drona Parva,
in the next birth she was born as river Ganga. (Bhaga- Chapter 144, Verse 6).
vata, Caturtha Skandha). DEVAMITRA. A female attendant of Subrahmanya.
DEVAKWDAM I. (DEVAHRADAM). A sacred
(Salya Parva, Chapter 14,
Verse 14).
place. A
dip in the holy waters there
is productive of DEVAMITRASAKALYA. Son of Mandukeya muni. A
results equal to that of an Avamedha yajna. (Vana he taught the five Sarhhitas to his
great Vedic scholar,
Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 20). five disciples, Mudgala, Gokala, Matsya, Khaliya
DEVAKUiyDAM II. A particular part of Krsnavena and (See Yajnavalkya).
river. It is known as Jatismarana hradam also. A bath
Saisireya.
DEVANADI. A river described as existing in the assem-
in the holy waters here will evoke memories of previous Verse 1
bly of Varuna. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 9,
(Vana Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 37).
'
life.
DEVANIKA. A king born in Sri Rama's dynasty.
DEVAKtFTA I. A mountain 18,000 miles in extent and Rama's son, Aditi the son of
(Solar). Ku>'a was Sri
2000 miles in height. Devakuta is on the eastern side of
Mahameru. There is another mountain called Jathara
Kusa Nisadha the son of Aditi, Nabhas Nisadha's son,
the son
Pundarika the son of Nabhas, Ksemadhanva
near this mountain. (Devi Bhagavata, Astama Skandha).
I. Devaki Rohini caiva Vasudevastatha sutau /
Krsnaramrivapasyantah sokarta vi jahuh smrtim //
subjects. But he was suffering from skin disease. So, rocks having any one of these four colours may be
when Pratipa wanted to crown him king the people selected. If no such stone is available any other stone
objected. Their argument was that God would not be may be used, but by doing homa and reciting Narasirhha
pleased if a man with skin disease became king. The mantra the attributes of any of the specified varnas
king yielded to their wishes and crowned Santanu as should be transferred to it. It is best to have white
his successor. The youngest brother Balhlka went and markings on the stone selected for the idol. There are
stayed in his mother's house. Devapi who was disappoint the three genders, masculine, feminine and neuter with
ed that he was denied the crown, left for the forest reference to stones. Stone which produces the sound of
and spent the rest of his life in penance. (Udyoga Parva, bell metal on being hit and gives out sparks of fire on
Chapter 149). being cut is of the masculine gender. Stone which
His end. Devapi did tapas at the Prthudaka tirtha in possesses these attributes to a lesser degree is of the
the interior of Kuruksetra and ultimately attained feminine gender. Stone with no shape is of neuter gen-
salvation. (Salya Parva, Chapter 39, Verse 37) . der. Beside these three varieties there are the sagarbha
DEVAPI II. A warrior who fought on the Pandava side (pregnant) stones also, viz. stones with round markings
in the great war. He hailed from Cedi. Kama killed on them, and they should not be used for making idols.
him. (Karna Parva, Chapter 56, Verse 48). Once it is decided to make an idol, Vanayajna should
DEVAPRASTHAM. A city
in the northern borders of be performed first. To worship the forest from which
ancient India. King Senabindu had his capital there. the stone for the idol was to be obtained is vanayajna.
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 27, Verse 13) A specified place in the forest should be dug up, the
DEVAPRATHA. A king of the Yayati dynasty. (Bhagavata, pit treated with cow-dung and a small platform raised
Navama Skandha). and Visnu worshipped thereon. After sacrificial offerings
DEVAPRATISTHA. The sacred rite of installation of etc. instruments for the c instruction of the idol like
Devas (idols) in temples for which definite rules have taiika (chisel) should be worshipped. To sprinkle on
been laid down by great acaryas. According to the the stone Salitoya (water in which paddy grains are
rules Vasudevamurti is to be installed in the centre of put) purified with the chanting of astramantra is the
the pancaya tanas, (the Sri kovil the sanctum sancto- next step. After that bhutabali (offerings to the spirits
rium and the four paths used for the procession of the of the stone) should be performed upon which the
deity, around it) The murtis Vamana, Narasirhha,
. bhutas residing inside the stone will quit. Then the
Hayagriva and Varaha are to be installed in the zones acarya should go to sleep repeating the svapna mantra.
1
I. Svapnamantra:
Om namah sakalalokaya Visiiave prabhavisnave/
Visvaya visvarupaya svaprndhipataye namah //
Acaksva devadevesa prasuptosmi tavantikam/
Svapne sarvani karyani hrdistani tuyanime"
Om Om hum pha{ vi?nave svaha.
DEVAPUSKARINl 212 DEVASARMA IV
If he dreams good dreams everything is quite right; the dvadasacandra masas (the 12 solar months).
if bad dreams are dreamt, the next morning narasirhha- That day was his father's death anniversary ( Sraddha
homa should be performed, the stone given offerings day) for which he would invite Brahmins on the pre-
with chanting of astramantra. The edge of the instru- vious evening. And, in the morning he would get cook-
ments used for sculpturing the idol should be firstly ed rice by his wife in 18 different ways for the gratifica-
smeared with ghee, honey etc. The architect should be tion of the departed soul. Then will he feed the
one who has gained mastery over the senses. He should Brahmins. On one such day he duly treated a Brahmin
first cut the stone into a square, and then it should be versed in the Vedas. In the evening when he
placed on a chariot, covered with cloth and taken to was washing his feet with water brought by his wife
his house. Then after performing a puja the work on he heard the following conversation between a dog
the idol should be started. (Agni Purana, Chapter 43). and an ox.
DEVAPUSKARIIVl. A very ancient tirtha in India a dip Dog :Please attend to my words about what my
in which is as efficacious as performing an Asvamedha daughter-in-law did. One day, as fate would have it,
yajfta. (Vana Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 45) . I went to my son's house, where a snake was drinking
DEVARAJA I. A
king in ancient India who spent his milk, and I drank the whole of the milk which was left
days in the assembly of Yama worshipping him. (Sabha. over by it. My daughter-in-law saw me drinking it and
Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 26). I was absolutely crest-fallen. I don't feel any yearning
DEVARAJA II. An immoral brahmin who had been a even for food.
trader in Kiratanagara. Once he met a whore at the Ox: Now dog, please attend to my sorrow and grief.
bathing pool and got so inextricably tied up with her Today my son feasted the Brahmins, but he did not even
that he killed his parents and wife for her sake. Then think of me. Nobody gave me even a blade of grass or
one day he had to go to Pratisthananagara on business a drop of water. I have not tasted anything today.
where he heard sacred stories being read. He had also Moreover I am a captive also. All this must be the result
a glimpse of the divine. A month after that he died. of some sin committed by me in my past life no doubt ;
Amba, daughter of the KaSi king did tapas. (Udyoga On account of such painful thoughts the Brahmin could
Parva, Chapter 186, Verse 27). not sleep in the night. Early in the morning he went
DEVARATA I. A king who nourished in Dharma- to sage Vasistha and unburdened his heart to him and
putra's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 26) .
requested him to find a solution to the low and mean
DEVARATA II. (Sunassepha). birth which had become his parents' fate. After medita-
General. A king of Mithila. The kings of Mithila were ting for some time the great sage told the brahmin
as
commonly called Janaka. Devarata was called Devarata follows :
Janaka. ( See Janaka) . "Look here, the ox was, in its previous birth, a great
2) Genealogy. From Visnu descended thus: Brahma, brahmin in Kundinanagara. He did not observe the
Bhrgu Cyavana tJrva Rclka Devarata (Sunasse- Sukla-pancami in the month of Prosthapada, the day
pha). (For details see Sunassepha). being the death anniversary of his father. His wife had
DEVARATA III. A house-holder whose daughter Kala menstruation on the same day, but she herself feasted
was married by Sona. Kala was killed by Marica. the Brahmins. A
woman is impure during the four days
Devarata and Sona along with VisVamitra went to of menstruation. Because of having feasted the Brah-
Sivaloka in search of Kala. As Kala had, at the time mins on the first day of her monthly period the Brah-
of her death, uttered the word 'Hara' (Siva) she had min's wife was born as a dog. As for the husband, he
gone to Mount Kailasa and was spending her days in the was born an ox as he not only did not observe the
service of Parvati who, after making Kala and Sona Sukla-pancami day, but also shared the sin of his wife.
participate in Somavaravrata sent them back to earth. Further questioned by the brahmin as to what he should
(Padma Purana, Patala Khanda, Chapter 112). do for the salvation of his parents, Vasistha advised him
DEVASAMAM. A mountain. Here lived Agastya in his to observe the Rsi pancami in the month of Prosthapada
as'rama for some time. (M.B, Chapter 88, Verse 17). (Bhadrapada). He did so and his parents blessed him
DEVASARMA I. A very reputed muni. He had a wife and attained salvation. (Padma Purana, Chapter 78).
called Ruci and a disciple called Vipula. (See Vipula DEVASARMA III. (See Mitrabheda) .
it will deliver two kids every year. I will sell all the DEVASARMA VI. A Brahmin who lived on the nor-
kids and with the sale proceeds purchase a cow and thern side of river Kaverl. The following story about
when it multiplies I will have the wherewithals for cul- him is told in chapters 2, 4 and 12 of the Skanda
tivation and then I will do cultivation in a good field Purana.
and produce much paddy. And when I have thus money One day in the month of Karttika he asked his son to
in hand I will renovate my house and marry. We will bathe. The son refused to obey his father, who got
then have a good son whom I will name Somasarman, angry at the disobedience of the son and cursed him to be
and if my wife, without caring for the boy, goes to milk turned into a rat. But, when the son begged his pardon
the cow I will go to the cow shed and give her a good he said that the boy would resume his old form when
beating. "When his imagination reached this point the he heard about the greatness of Karttika.
pot on his head received, without his knowing, a blow While the Brahmin, thus turned into rat, was roaming
with the stick in his hand and it fell down on the ground about in the forest it saw Visvamitra maharsi seated
and was broken to pieces." under a tree with his disciples. The maharsi was telling
Five or six days after telling the above story to her the disciples about the greatness of Karttika. The Brah-
husband Yajnasena gave birth to a child. One day she min boy turned cat heard the story and reverted to
went to the river to take her bath leaving the child its old form as the Brahmin boy.
to the care of her husband. Soon after a messenger came DEVASARMA VII. See Maya Siva.
from the palace to invite Devasarman for food, the day DEVASATTRA(M). A yajna. (See Vana Parva,
being Amavasi when Brahmins were fed well and also Chapter 84, Verse 68) .
given daksina, (presents of money). He could not wait DEVASENA I. A very intelligent king who ruled his
till his wife arrived; the child became a problem to country with Sravasti as his capital. (See Unmadini) .
The brahmin had a beloved Mongoose. After entrusting DEVASENA. Daksa's daughter and wife of Subrah-
the child to the care of it the Brahmin went to the manya and a woman of rare beauty and purity. Dait-
palace. Within a short time a serpent was seen crawling yasena and Devasena, daughters of Daksa, used to
towards the child and the Mongoose attacked it and enjoy themselves at Manasa saras. One day Kesi, the
bit it into pieces. Naturally the Mongoose got itself asura saw them and craved for their love. Daityasena
smeared all over with the blood of the serpent, and the agreed to become his wife, but Devasena refused, and
brahmin on returning home finding the Mongoose bath- she prayed for the help of Indra, who happened to
ed in blood thought it might have eaten the child come there at the moment. Indra and Kesi fought
and in a rage he killed the poor Mongoose. But, when with each other. Keii used the club against Indra, who
he entered the room and found pieces of the killed ser- broke it into two with his vajrayudha. Then Kesi hurled
pent strayed all over there truth and light dawned on a mountain at Indra, who cut it also. Frightened to
him. Yajnasena, who had returned after bath by now death Kesi then ran away with Daityasena to safety,
also found fault with him. and Devasena expressed her desire to Indra to have
The second story. Once there was a Brahmin in very indi- one who could defeat the Devas, Danavas and Yaksas
gent circumstances. He was an orphan from his very as her husband. But, Indra could not find such a one
childhood. One day while he was asleep quite weary in the whole universe. Indra told Brahma about it.
and tired as he had no food that day some one The Devas put their heads together and brought forth
appeared and told him in a dream that three sannyasins Subrahmanya from Siva to be her husband. In the
would come to his house that noon and that if beaten to war between the Devas and the asuras Devasena helped
death they would turn into three pot-fulls of treasure Subrahmanya, and the asuras were completely destro-
with which he could live comfortably well. yed. (Vana Parva, Chapters 223, 224).
His dream came true, and he locked up the treasure in DEVAS 1LA. See Gayatlrtha.
his room after sending away a barber who had witnessed DEVASMITA. A Gem of a woman who was much devoted
the incident with a piece of gold. The barber returned to her husband. The story of Devasmita has been so
home cherishing in his mind the false belief that sann- often quoted in ancient Indian literature. She was the
yasins beaten to death would turn into pot-fulls of daughter of a Vaisya called Dharmagupta and was
treasure. And, one day some sannyasins came to his married to Guhasena, son of a Vaisya called Dhana-
house and he began beating them and they ran out datta, who belonged to Tamraliptinagara.
crying aloud. Their cries attracted the attention of the After the death of his father Guhasena decided to go to
servants of the King. The barber's limbs were cut off Katahadvipa for trade, and Devasmita, a very suspici-
and he was killed on Sula (a three-pronged weapon) . ous wife, objected to it. When his other relations began
DEVA&ARMA V. A Brahmin, who used to perform rites pressing him to go to the dvipa for
trade and his wife
for the dead at the confluence of the sea every fortnight. not to go, Guhasena could not take a decision on the
DAVASMITA 214 DEVAVAR1VIN1
matter. He began a penance so that God might take among a thousand merchants. Guhasena too felt his
the decision in the matter. Devasmita also followed own doubts about her identity. But, without revealing
him. Then God appeared to them in their dreams her identity she saw the king and told him that she had
and gave each of them a red lotus flower saying, "both certain matters to submit before the prajaparisat (popu-
of you keep one flower each with you, and while both lar assembly) The King accordingly convened a session
.
of you are away from each other if either of you go of the assembly and Devasmita identified the four youths
astray the lotus flower in the hands of the other who had tried to seduce her and submitted all details
person will fade." And, on awaking both of them had regarding the episode. The King then gave her a lot of
a flower in their hands. Guhasena with his flower in money, appointed the four youths as her servants and
his hands started for Kafahadvlpa, and Devasmita sta- sent her back home with Guhasena. (Kathasaritsagara,
yed at home with her eyes fixed on her lotus flower. Kathamukhalambakam, Taranga 5) .
Guhasena reached the dvipa and traded in gems. Every- DEVASRAVAS I A king of the Yayati dynasty. (Bha-
body was surprised to find in his hands a lotus flower gavata, Navama Skandha).
which never faded. Four Vaisya youngsters wanted to DEVASRAVAS II A Rsi born in Visvamitra's family.
understand the secret of it and one day they invited He wasa mantrika of the Kusika gotra (Santi Parva,
Guhasena to their house and treated him to liquor very Chapter 47, Verse 5) .
liberally. When he got absolutely drunk they question- DEVASRUTA. A son of Sukamuni. Suka, the son of
ed him about the secret of the lotus flower, and he, Vyasa married Pivari, the beautiful daughter of the
though in indistinct words, explained it to them. When Pitrs, and to them were born four sons, Krsna, Gaura-
the secretwas thus out all the four youngsters decided prabha, Bhfiri and Devasruta, and one daughter, Kirti.
to seduce his wife. They extracted from him the infor- (Devibhagavata, Prathama Skandha).
mation that he was not returning in the near future, DEVASTHANA.
and they then came to Tamralipti. General. A maharsi, who was a friend of the Pandavas.
At that time there lived in Tamralipti a bogus Sannya- Other information. (
1 ) After the great war was over this muni
sini(a female anchorite) called Yogakarandika. The four Dharmaputra and induced him to perform yajfias.
visited
youths from Katahadvlpa visited her, and she under- (2)Along with some other munis he gave spiritual
took to fulfil their desire. She asked them to halt at her advice to Dharmaputra and comforted him. (Santi
house and then went to Devasmita with some refreshments. Parva, Chapter 37, Verse 27) .
Devasmita's bitch barked very violently at the bogus an- (3) He was one of the munis, who visited Bhisma on
chorite when she told the former thus "Child! don't
: his bed of arrows. (Santi Parva, Chapter 47, Verse 5) .
you see the bitch barking at my very sight. The bitch is DEVASURAYUDDHA (S) Wars between the gods and
crying thinking of her previous birth at my sight. Her- asuras. Altogether twelve wars were fought between
self (the bitch) and I were, in our last birth, the wives the Devas and
of a Brahmin. Since our husband was a courtier at the
palace often he was away from home and in his absence
I used to satisfy the cravings of sex by associating freely
with other males. I had even at that time realised the
truth that there was no duty higher than satisfying the
senses, and so I am now reborn with memories of the
past life. As for this bitch in her past life as co-wife with
me of the Brahmin, she sinned against her sense-organs
by upholding, in ignorance, her chastity, as a punish-
ment for which she was born as dog in this life. Yet, she
remembers her past.
Though Devasmita saw through the false and trea-
cherous heart of the bogus anchorite, without expres-
sing it she talked in all respect with her. Believing that
she had succeeded in her mission she told Devasmita
about the four youths who had come from Kataha-
dvlpa, and Devasmita welcomed the idea very gladly.
Devasmita got some liquor and mixed poison in it.
When it was night one of the Vaisya youths came, and
after rendering him unconscious by administering the
poisoned liquor to him Devasmita stripped him of all
his clothes and ornaments, got him scratched on the
brows by the bitch and threw him into a cow dung
heap. Before it was dawn next day he returned to the
anchorite's house, took a bath and dressed himself up in
decent clothings. His other three companions also visi-
ted Devasmita one after the other in the next three
days, and they too underwent the same experience as the
first one. Lastly the
bogus sannyasini also was got down
and Devasmita cut her limbs and sent her away. And,
after this Devasmita put on the garb of a merchant and
went to Katahadvlpa and identified her husband from
DEVAVATI I 215 DEVAYANI
called Kubera. (See Kubera). learning should prove useless. And, Kaca cursed her
DEVAVATI I. Daughter of the Gandharva called in return that nobody from devaloka should marry
Manimaya. Sukea, the Raksasa married DevavatI, and her. (For details see Kaca).
three sons Malyavan, Sumali and Mali were born to 3) DevayanI in a neglected well. Once Vrsaparvan was the
them who lived as dependants of Ravana. (Uttara king of the asuras, and Sukracarya lived in his palace.
Ramayana) .
Sarmistha, the daughter of the king and DevayanI, the
DEVAVATI II. Sita, wife of Rama was Devavati in her daughter of Sukracarya became thick friends. While
previous birth. (See Sita for information for Devavatl's one day these two friends with their companions were
death in fire and rebirth as Sita) .
engaged in water sports Indra came that way. Very
DEVAVATI III. Daughter of the daitya called Manda- much interested in seeing the deva damsels thus engaged
ramall. (See Visvakarman, Para 2). in water sports Indra assumed the form of air and blew
DEVAVlTI. Daughter-in-law of king Agnidhra. Purva- off the dresses of the damsels from the shore while they
citti, the apsara woman was the king's wife and they had were playing in the river. The damsels hurriedly got
nine sons called Nabhi, Kirhpurusa, Hari, Ilavrta, out of water, ran after the fleeing garments and put
Ramuka, Hiranjaya, Kuru, Bhadrasva and Ketumala, on whatever came to their hands. In the confusion what
and these sons married the following daughters of Meru, Sarmistha got and wore was Devayam's clothes. DevayanI
viz. MerudevI, Pratirupa, Ugradarhstrl, Lata, Ramya, ran after Saimistha and caught hold of the clothes, but
Syama, Niirl, Bhadra and Devavlti. Thus Dcvaviti be- the latter did not yield them to her. Both of them
came the wife of Ketumala. (Bhagavata, Paficama indulged in hot words against each other, Sarmistha
Skandha) .
calling Sukracarya a beggar living in her father's
DEVAVRATA Bhisma (See Bhisma for details).
I.
palace for his food. Not only that, she pushed DevayanI
DEVAVRATA A brahmin who believed in yajnas.
II. into a neglected well and went her way.
He once received without due regard and with indif- At that time prince Yayati, son of Nahusa, was hunting
ference the tirtha water given to him by a devotee of in that forest. Feeling very thirsty he came to the well
Krsna after worship of the Lord, as a result of which, for a drink and therein saw DevayanI in tears. He
in the next birth, he was born as a bamboo stem. And, brought her out from the well and leaving her there
as he did, consciously or otherwise some good deeds Sri went on his way.
Krsna made a flute out of that bamboo stem, and Sukracarya and his wife actually got anxious and upset
Devavrata thus attained redemption. (Padma Purana, that their daughter had not returned even after the
Patala Khanda, Chapter 73) .
lapse of so much time and deputed their servant
DEVAVRDHA I. A warrior, who fought against the Gurnika to seek for DevayanI. She found her out in
Pandavas in the Kuruksetra war (Kama Parva, Chap- the forest. But, DevayanI refused to return home as
ter 85, Verse 3). she did not want to continue as the daughter of one
DEVAVRDHA II. A king who, along with his subjects who lived on the charity of Sarmistha and her father.
attained heaven as he had made a gift of a golden Gurnika carried back this news to Sukracarya, who then
umbrella. (Santi Parva, Chapter 234, Verse 21) . went himself to the forest and met his daughter. He
DEVAYAJANAM. The place called Prayaga which is felt deeply wounded to hear about the insults heaped
considered to be the yajnic centre of the Devas. Amba, on his daughter by Sarmistha, and sent word to
daughter of the King of Kag I did rigorous tapas here. Vrsaparvan that they were not returning to the palace.
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 186, Verse 27) .
Vrsaparvan realised that if Sukracarya quarrelled
DEVAYAjI. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (Salya Parva, with him the whole asura world also would become
Chapter 45, Verse 7) . divided. He, therefore, tried his best to pacify the
DEVAYANI. Sukracarya's daughter. acarya and his daughter. At last DevayanI agreed to re-
1) Birth. Brahma had two
Svayambhuvamanu, son of turn to the palace in case Sarmistha went to her with one
sons: Priyavrata and Uttanapada. Priyavrata wedded thousand of her maids to serve as her (Devayanl's) maids.
Suriipa and BarhismatI, two very beautiful daughters Vrsaparvan acted accordingly and DevayanI was
of Visvakarmaprajapati, and he had by Surupa ten satisfied and returned to the palace with her father.
sons called Agnidhra, Idhmajihva, Yajnabahu, (Adi Parva, Chapter 78 onwards.)
Mahavira, Rukmasukra, Ghrtaprstha, Savana, Medha- 4) Wedding of Devaydni. Some time afterwards when
tithi, Vltihotra and Kavi as also a daughter called DevayanI was sporting in the forest with Sarmistha and
UrjasvatI who was the youngest of the whole lot. Of others, King Yayati happened to pass that way. They
the above ten sons Kavi, Savana and Mahavira were recognised each other and DevayanI requested Yayati
spiritual giants and great sages. Uttama, Tapasa and to marry her as she had mentally chosen him as her
Raivata, the three sons of Priyavrata by his second wife husband on the very same day on which he had saved
BarhismatI turned out to be manvantaradhipatis. her from the well.
Crjasvati, the only daughter of Priyavrata was married Yayati realised only too well that it was really danger-
to Sukracarya, preceptor of the asuras. DevayanI was ous to marry the daughter of Sukracarya in the forest
Sukracarya's daughter by Crjasvati. (Devlbhagavata, secretly and he, therefore, rejected Devayanl's request.
Astama Skandha) .
But, she got down her father there and with his per-
2) Curse by Kaca. Kaca, son of Brhaspati became mission Yayati married her. He also got much wea 1th
Sukracarya's disciple to learn Mrtasanjivanl vidya by way of dowry. Sarmistha and her maids accompanied
(the science to ward off death for ever). DevayanI
DevayanI but Sukracarya warned Yayati that on no
fell
madly in love with Kaca. But, after his studies account should he touch Sarmistha.
under her father were over Kaca returned to dcvaloka With his wife and her attendants Yayati returned to
without marrying DevayanI, who cursed that Kaca's his palace; but he put Sarmistha and her maids in
DEVI 216 DEVI
a place newly built for the purpose. Devaya.nl delivered capacity), Smrti (ability to remember), Sraddha (atten-
a child in due course and it was named Yadu. Sarmis- tion, concentration), Medha (intellect), Svadha, Svaha,
tha one day met Yayati in the forest and requested Ksudha (thirst), Nidra (sleep) Daya (compassion) ,Gati,
,
for a child by him. Though at first he was reluctant to (momentum), Tus^i (pleasure, happiness) Pustf (growth,
oblige remembering only too well the injunction of progress), Ksama (patience, forberance), Lajja (sense
Sukracarya, he at last succumbed to the eloquence of of shame ), Jrmbha andTandra (laziness).
Sarmistha. She got pregnant by him and the child And, the Devi spoke to Mahavisnu as follows: After
she delivered was called Druhyu. all, what is there to be wondered at. Whenever the
Devayani was alarmed at the birth of a child to world faced the phenomenon of Srstisthitilaya (crea-
Sarmistha, who was unmarried, and questioned her tion, existence and absorption into the primordial force)
about it. Sarmistha's answer that a brahmin stranger, you too have come up due to the power of Maha.sakti.
who came that way was the father of her child satisfied As for ParaSakti ( the ultimate, universal force) it is
Devayani. above and beyond all attributes. We, all of us, possess
Ere long another son, Turvasu, was born to Devayani, attributes. From the nabhi (navel) of yourself in whom
and Sarmistha too delivered two children called sattvaguna (gentle attributes) predominates will be
Anudruhyu and Puru. Thus the mistress (Devayani) born Brahma in whom rajoguna (active attributes)
had two sons and her servant, Sarmistha three sons. will predominate, and from the centre of his brows
While Yayati and Devayani were one day strolling in will be born Rudra with tamoguna (black, destructive
the garden the sons of Sarmistha came there. She attributes). Brahma, by the force of his tapas will earn
noticed the close resemblance of those boys to her powers of creation and will with his rajoguna create
husband (Yayati) and it kindled her wrath. Though the world blood-red in colour, and you will be the
Yayati did not, because of the presence of Devayani, sustainer and guardian of that world. The very same
notice the children, when she asked them who their world will be annihilated by Rudra at the end of the
father was, they answered
"Yayati", whereupon in Kalpa era. You please do know that I am the sattvic
great rage she ran up to her father. Yayati too followed force which depend on you for the purpose of creation.
her. Devayani told her father about the infidelity of All creations of worlds have been made according to
Yayati and he (Sukra) cursed that Yayati be afflicted the suggestions of Devi.
with old age. When Yayati asked for redumption from 2 ) Origin of Devi. Once King Janamejaya questioned
the curse
Sukracarya told him that he could exchange Vyasa about the birth of Devi to which he replied as
his old age for the follows
youth of somebody else. :
Yayati then called together all his five sons and asked Even Brahmavisnumahesvaras (Brahma, Visnu and
them whether anyone of them was prepared to exchange Siva the Hindu trinity) are not capable of thinking
his (son's) youth for his about the origin of Devi. Then, what about me? Yet
(Yayati's) old age for one
thousand years. The three elder sons refused to agree let me make an attempt. All the forces everything
to the proposal, but the fourth son Puru which appear in various names and forms are in fact
gladly exchan-
ged his youth with his father's old age. After spending Devi herself, her different manifestations. Just as a
his master actor appears on the stage in different roles for
life in youthful
enjoyment for one thousand
years Yayati returned his youth to Puru, and Puru the delectation of the audience the formless Devi, on
assumed Kingship of the country. (Adi Parva, Chapters behalf of the Devas, assumes many forms and imposes
81-83). upon herself attributes though in fact she is without any
attribute whatsoever. Thus, depending on her various
5) Synonyms for Devayani. Aus"anasl, Sukratanaya and
Bhargavi.
.oiiargavi. forms, actions etc. she is addressed by different names.
DEVI.
>EVI. (Mahamaya). (Devi Bhagavata, Pancama Skandha).
Though Devi is without a beginn- 3) Five forms of Devi. When primordial nature (Mula-
ing it is told how she became first visible to living beings.
prakrti) incarnated or manifested in the form of Visnu
1) Beginning: While Mahavisnu was resting on a fig the desire for creation raised its head in him. And, at
leaf in the assumed form of a child he
began thinking once the Devi female aspects in Visnu manifested
as to who he was, who created him and how he should
in five forms like Durga, LaksmI, SarasvatI, Savitrl and
act. And then a celestial voice announced as follows: Radha. These five forms are designated as the
Sarvam khalvidamevaham Pancadevis. Brief notes on the five Devls are given
Nanyadasti sanatanam. below.
that I am. There
(All is, nothing eternal but me.).
is
(1) Durgadevi. Mother of Ganesa bhagavan. (God with
This declaration astonished
Visnu, but he could not the elephant's head). She is the consort of Siva.
understand who made it. While he was meditating
Narayani, the Visnumaya, is none else than Durga.
upon it, Devi appeared to him in the following manner. She is also perfect Brahma, the one and the only one
Devi held in her four sacred hands
1
2) Laksmi. This Devi is the most sublime form of the (2) Tulasi. She is and also the servant at
the lover
universal soul, nay, the universal soul itself. She is all the feet of Visnu. She also washes off men's sins and
wealth and riches personified, and she is the seat of
very promotes their welfare. (See Tulasi).
beauty, compassion, welfare, peace, all goodness etc. (3) Manasadevi Manasadevi, who was born as a dau-
Evil traits like anger, avarice, haughtiness etc. are miles ghter of Ka;'yapa is another partial incarnation of
away from her. She is all sympathy and kindness Mahamaya. She is a great tapasvinl, a favourite dis-
towards her devotees. In Vaikuntha, as MahalaksmI she ciple of Sankara, unique in learning and erudition,
ever engaged in the service of her husband, Visnu. sister of Ananta (the king of
is
Serpents), the presiding
In heaven she is the very glory of it. In houses she deity of Mantras, wife of Jaratkaru muni and mother
appears as the welfare and prosperity of the inmates. of Astlka muni. (See Manasadevi) .
She is in fact beauty itself and is the essence of beauty (4) Devasenadevt. Since this Devi has been born out of a
everywhere. She is all-merciful, and worshipped by sixth part of Mahamaya she is called Sasthldevi also. It
is this Devi, who
all. gives children to living beings and also
(3) Sarasvati. She is very base and fountain head of and protects them. For one year from the birth of a child
the presiding deity of the word, intellect, knowledge, this Devi should be worshipped. Those who cannot
the arts etc. She also is of the form of the universal afford it should
worship Devi on the 6th or 21st day
soul and liberally grants intellect, poetical skill, reason after a child is born. (See
Devasena) .
every branch of knowledge. Like the ice piece, the grandsons, wealth, reputation, welfare etc. (See Maii-
Jasmine flower etc. she is beautiful in her white cover. galacandika) .
She recited the holy names of Sri Krsna. She is of the (6) Bh umidevi. She is the basis for all things, soil for
the origin of the vegetable
form of tapas and blesses those who perform it. In fact, kingdom, the treasure
she it is who grants all gifts and powers of understand- house of all gems and the very incarnation of
compas-
sion and sympathy. (See
ing. She is the goddess of language and learning (Vanl- Bhumidevi).
Another class of devls who are
mata) and without her human beings would lose their 5) Arhtakalddevi(s} .
were able to see her only after she, in unbounded com- she is the source of all strength.
passion for the world, incarnated herself in Vrndfivana (7) Tuftidevi. Consort of Ananta worshipped by every-
(See Prakrti). body. If the Devi ceased to exist there would be no
(22) Murti. Wife of Dharma. She is very beautiful and Sakti (Vel) .Laksmi has in her right hand the conch
effulgent. In her absence the universal soul would be- and disc, and the club and the lotus flower in her left
come devoid of vitality, helpless and meaningless. hand. Varahi rides the buffalo with staff, sword, club
(23) Sridevi. Wife of Mall. Her absence will make the and conch in her hands. Indram is seated on the club,
world lifeless. holding diamond in her hands. She has a thousand
eyes. Camundi has three eyes
and is without flesh in the
(24) Nidradevi. Wife of Kalagni. The Devi, a sage
body. Her hairs are raised above. She
who has attained realisation, affects everybody in the holds in her left
world during night and makes them lose consciousness hand elephant's skin and sula in the right hand. At
and plunges them in sleep. In the absence of this Devi times she is seated on a corpse also.
the world will become a lunatic asylum. Now, about the idols of the eight Arhbas. Rudra Carc-
cika holds a skull, Sula and cord in her hands. She
(25-26-27) Ratri, Sandhya and Divasa. These three are the
wives of Time (Kala) In their absence nobody would
.
wears elephant's skin, her legs slightly held up. She
have any sense of time and none would be able to cal- becomes Rudracamunda when she assumes eight hands,
culate and fix time. and holds the skull and the damaru. And in dancing
four faces Mahal-
pose she is called Natesvarl, and with
(28-29) and
Viiappu Daham. Visappu = hunger. aksml. She is called Siddhacamunda when she assumes
Daham = These two Devis are the wives of
thirst.
the form with ten hands and three eyes, and when she
greed (Lobha) They go about the world affecting
.
eats men, horses and buffaloes. In this form she holds
people and thus making them worried and miserable. in her right hand the sword, damaru etc. and in he
(30-31) Prabhddevi and Ddhikd devl are the wives of left hand the Trisula, bell etc. Since the Devi is sarva-
Tejas (Vitality). Without them Isvara will find it im- siddhipradayika (giver of all divine
attainments or
possible to continue the function of creation. assets) she is Siddhayogesvari also. There is also an-
(32-33 ) Mrtyu and Jara are the consorts of Prakrsta- other Devi in this very form who holds the pasa and
jvara and daughters of Kala. And, ifthey cease to exist, Arhkusa in her hand and who is slightly red in colour.
Brahma's creation would also cease. (For Brahma's She is called Bhairavl. When Bhairavi assumes the
creation individual souls with the will for action are form with twelve hands she is called Rupavidya. All the
DEVlBHAGAVATA 219 DEVlPlTHA
above eight Devls were born in burial grounds and are 27. Salagrama Mahadevi
Raudramurtis. They are known as the Astambas. 28. Sivaliriga Jalapriya
DEVlBHAGAVATA. The Saivas venerate this book as 29. Mahaliiiga Kapila
one of the eighteen Puranas. But according to the Vai- 30. Makota Mukufesvarl
snavites, this is an authoritative book of a loftier level
31 .
Mayapuri Kumari
than the eighteen Puranas. (See under Purana) .
32. Santana Lalitambika
33. Gaya
DEVIKA I. (VEDIKA). Daughter of Govasa, the Sai- Maiigala
34. Purusottama Vimala
bya King. She was wedded by Yudhisthira in Svayarh- 35. Sahasraksa Utpalaksl
vara, and to them were born a son called Yaudheya.
36. Hiranyaksa Mahotpala
(Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 76) .
setra. Those who bathe in SankhinI will become beauti- DHANANJAYA II. Another name for Arjuna. (See under
ful in appearance, while those who bathe in Madhu- Arjuna) .
vati and Mrgadhuma will get the benefits of perform- HI. The army given to Subrahmanya by
DHANANJAYA
ing a thousand godanas ( gifts of cows ) . Siva. (Sloka 17, Chapter 46, Salya Parva).
DHA. This letter means dharana, Sobhana, Dhata, dhat- DHANANJAYA IV. A
Sanskrit critic who lived during
tura (umma plant) .
(Chapter 348, Agni Purana). the period between llth and 12th century A.D. He was
DHAMA. A hermit who protected Ganga-Mahadvara. a member of the court of King Munja. His important
(Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 111, Stanza work is 'Dasarupaka'. This work contains three
hundred slokas divided in four separate divisions. After
DHAMADHAMA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka the death of Munja, Dhanika, brother of Dhananjaya,
27, Chapter 46, Salya Parva) .
wrote a commentary on this work. The treatise is
DHANAKA. A king of the Yayati dynasty. (Navama named' Dasarupavaloka'. There are several quotations in
Skandha, Bhagavata) . this from the Sanskrit dramas 'Vemsarhhara' and 'Ratna-
DHANAPALA. A Vaisya who lived in the city of Ayo- vali'. He has in this work discussed Drama and Pociry
dhya. He built in Ayodhya a temple for the Sun-god in general giving prominence to the emotional side of it.
and appointed, for a year, paying his wages in advance, The critical work, Dasarupavaloka, contains quotations
a scholar well versed in Puranas to read aloud the from a book 'Kavyanirnaya' by Dhanika himself. But
Puranas in the temple. After six months Dhanapala the work 'Kavyanirnaya' has not yet been made avail-
died and as a result of the goodness accrued to him by able. Even in composing poetry Dhananjaya was well
his worthy deeds the Sun-god came to him with his versed. He is the author of the well-known epic 'Raghava-
chariot and took him to his place and seating him on
pandavlya'. It is known as 'Dvisandhana Kavya' also.
his seat paid respects to him. Later he was taken to This is based on the lives of Pandavas and Sri Rama.
Brahmaloka. (Bhavisya Purana, Brahma Kanda, Dhananjaya bears the name of Srutakirti also. It is
Chapter 94). statedby scholars that Raghavapandaviya was written
DHANASARMA. A brahmin belonging to Madhyadesa. during the period 1123 to 1140 A.D. (History of classi-
Once when Dhanasarma went to the forest to get cal Sanskrit Literature) .
darbha he confronted three fierce evil spirits and gett- DHANANJAYA V. There was once a brahmin ascetic
ing frightened ran away from them. But the spirits called Dhananjaya in the gotra of Vasistha. This hermit
followed him and the Brahmin then cried and said had hundred wives and got hundred sons, one by each
"Oh, please do not harm me. Mahavisnu will bless of his wives. The son born of his wifeSabhaka (Salaka)
you." was named Karuna. The father divided his assets
The moment they heard the name of Visnu there came equally among his sons and yet they quarrelled with
a change in them. They reiterated their story to each other.
Dhanasarma. Their names were Vaisakha, Sudasa and Once Karunamuni went to the shores of Bhava-
Advaita. Because of the ingratitude of Vaisakha he nasini along with a few other munis to worship
got a nick-name 'Krtaghna' (ungrateful man) also. All Narasimha. There a brahmin had brought a lovely
the three were human beings in their previous birth. lime as an offering to the deity. Karuna took the lime
Not only that, Advaita was a king called Harivira. from him and smelt it. At this the brahmin got angry
All the three became evil spirits because of their sins. and cursed him. "Sinner, may you live as a fly for a
From the conversation Dhanasarma understood that hundred years. Then Mahatma D.idhlca will give you
Vaisakha was his father and they then knew each other. back your original form." Karuna instantly became a
DHANANJAYA VI 221 DHANURVEDA
fly and he pleaded to his wife thus "Beloved, I have him into a copper vessel containing burning oil. But to
become a fly. Please do protect me." Karuna started his great amazement the burning oil became cold as
flying hither and thither and his cruel brothers made soon as the body of Dhanesvara came into contact with
the fly fall in oil and killed it. Sucismita, wife of it just as it in the case of Prahlada.
happened once before
Karuna, started weeping laying the dead fly in her lap. The perplexed attendant ran Yama and told him of
to
Arundhatidevi passing that way saw her and consoled this strange incident. Yama was also surprised at this
her thus: 'Sucismita, stop lamenting. I shall bring it novelty in hell and called back Dhanesvara and started
to life this instant by sacred ashes.' So saying th,e Devi enquiring about his life once again. Niirada came there
took some ashes from the fire-pit and reciting the at that time. Both of them then talked about Dhanesvara.
powerful Mrtyunjaya mantra sprinkled it on the dead Niirada told Yama how the unanticipated thing so
body of the fly. Sucismita fanned the fly. The potency happened because Dhanesvara on the eve of his death
of the ashes brought the fly back to life. spent some time with people who were observing the
After a hundred years one of his relatives killed it Karttika Vrata washing away thus all the sins accumu-
again. Sucismita grief-stricken, took the dead fly to the lated so far in his life. Hearing that Yama took Dhanes-
Maharsi, Dadhlca. The sage told her thus: "It was vara round hell and giving DhaneJvara, the position of
bhasma (sacred ashes) that gave life three times to a Yaksa sent him to Kuberapurl. (Chapter 115, Padma
Jamadagni, Kasyapa, the devas and myself. I will, Purana).
therefore, give life to thy husband by bhasma itself." DHANI. A
messenger of the asuras called Kapas. The
Dadhlca took some ashes and meditating on Mahesvara Kapas once sent Dhani to preach moral code among the
recited a mantra and sprinkled it on the dead fly and Brahmins. (Chapter 157, Anusasana Parva, M.B.)
brought it back to life. By the touch of Dadhica, the DHANIKA. A Sanskrit poet. (See Dhananjaya IV).
fly, husband of Sucismita, became Karuna again and
both of them went back to their hermitage. (Chapter
DHANUGRHA. (DHANUGRAHA, DHANURDHARA) .
was engaged in commerce and once while travelling he sandharita, (4) Amukta and (5) Bahuyuddha. There is
reached the city of Mahismati. There he met many people another division according to Astra and Sastra. There
from several adjoining villages who had come there to ob- is yet another division of the science into two by some
serve theKarttika Vrata. Later Dhanesvara was bitten by scholars from a different viewpoint calling them Maya
a cobra there and fell down fainting. Very soon he died. and Rju.
When he died the messengers of Yama came Tantramukta (Yantra = machine) This means a war-
.
and took him bound to Kalapuri. There, Gitra- fare where machines are used. Ksepini (sling) bow and
arrow and other such machines are included in this.
gupta read out to Yama all the sins Dhanesvara had
committed from boyhood till his death. Gitragupta Panimukta. (Pani = hand). This is where the hand is used
added "Even from boyhood there is no record of any mainly. Stone, mace etc. are used in this.
Muktasandharita. This includes the use of weapons like
good deed done by him. On the other hand the sins he
has committed could not be told in a year. He is an a spear.
incarnation of evil. He must be roasted in hell till the Amukta. The use of a weapon like a sword which never
end of the world." On hearing this the body of Yama leaves your hand.
blazed like flame with anger and calling aside an atten- Bahuyuddha. (Bahu = head). The fight with only bare
dant he ordered, "Hi, Pretapalaka, take this sinner hands without the use of a weapon. One who wishes
away, beat him with spiked clubs and throw him into to fight should make ready his own weapons. He should
Kumbhipaka". Pretapalaka instantly took him away be one who will never get tired even after exertion. A
and breaking his head with a thorn-spiked club threw war with baws and arrows is considered the best and
DHANURVEDA 222 DHANURVEDA
most manly, that with a spear ranks next, a fight with a stretch it well before sending the shot. The clue to
sword is bad and a fight with hands, the most mean. correct aim is this. Anything that one can see with one's
3) The Trainees. Only a brahmin is entitled to be a pre- eyes but can be covered by his fist is within the arrow-
ceptor in Dhanurveda. The Ksatriya and Vaisya should shot. When one arrow is sent another should be taken
learn from him. The Sudra can fight of his own in immediately from the sheath and sent in quick succes-
danger. He is not allowed to learn military science sion. This is called Upaccheda.
from a preceptor. Those mixed-born are to help the 6) Operations with a sword and a carma (shield). There
king during a war. are thirtytwo different ways of putting into use a sword
4) Various postures. There are nine different ways of or a 'carma' (shield). Bhranta, Udbhranta, Aviddha,
standing when you give a fight, classified according to Apluta, Vipluta, Srta, Sarhpata, Samudirna, Svetapata,
the different positions of one's foot, heel and knee. Akula, Savyoddhuta, Savyavadhuta, Daksinoddhuta, Dak-
Samapada. When you stand with your Angusfha, Nari- sinavadhuta, Analaksita, Visphofa, Karala, Indramahasa-
yani (Gulpha), Pani and Pada closely joined together, klia, Vikarala, Nipata, Vibhisaria, Bhayanaka, Samagra-
it istermed Samapada. pada, Arddhapada, Trtlyarhsapada, Pada, Ardhavarija,
Vatiakha. Keep your legs twentyseven inches apart and Varija, Pratyalidha, Alidha, Varaha and Lalita.
without bending your knees stand erect throwing your 7) Operations with ropes. There are eleven different ways
weight on the fingers of the foot. This stand is called of using a rope in a war. Paravrtta, Aparavrtta, Grhlta,
Vaisakha. Laghugrhlta, Urdhvaksipta, Adhahksipta, Sandharita,
Mandala. Keep your knees thirtysix inches apart and Syenapata, Gajapata and Grahagrahya. Adepts in this art
stand in the shape of a hamsapankti and this position have stated that there are five acts in the rope-operation.
is Mandala.
called They are Rju, Ayata, Visala, Tiryak and Bhramita.
:
Alidha.Bend your right knee and thigh in the shape of a 8) Mode of using the weapons. (1) Deeds
with a wheel
plough and without any movement to that posture are Chedana, Bhedana, Patana, Bhramana, Sayana and
:
draw your left leg fortyfive inches apart. This stand is Vikartana.
called Alidha. (2) Sula (spear). Deeds with this are Asphotana, Kso- :
Pratyalidha. If you bend your left knee and thigh and lana, Bhedana, Trasana, Andolana and Aghata.
stand like above it is called Pratyalidha. (3) Tomara (iron club) Deeds with this are Drstighata
.
:
Jala. Place your right foot straight and place the left one Parsvaghata, Rjupaksa and Istaprapta.
perpendicular to the right one with the heels and the (4) Gada (Mace). Deeds with this are Gomutra, Ahata, :
ankles of the feet five fingers apart. The whole length Prabhuta, Kamalasana, Tata, Urdhvagatra, Vamana-
of the posture should not exceed twelve fingers. This mita, Daksinamita, Avrtta, Paravrtta, Padoddhuta,
stand is called Jata. and Avapluta Harhsamarda.
Dandayata. Keep the right knee bent and the left leg (5) Parasu (axe). Deeds with this are Karala, Avagh- :
straight or vice versa. This posture is called Dandayata. ata, Dams a, Upapluta, Ksiptahasta, Sthita and Sunya,
Vikata. If for the above posture the distance between Deeds with this are Tadana.
(6) Mudgara (hammer) . :
and imparted it to many other disciples of his including Khanda Purana there is a story
of Brahmavaivarta
the Kauravas and Pandavas. (Chapter 129, Adi Parva, connecting Dhanvantari with Manasadevi, a serpent-
M.B.). goddess.
(3) Agniveia, a sage, Dhanurveda from sage
learnt Once Dhanvantari with his disciples was going to Kailasa.
Agastya. (Sloka 9, Chapter 133, Adi Parva, M.B.) . On the way Taksaka made a venom-spitting hiss. At
(4) Dhanurveda has got
ten angas and four caranas. once one of the disciples of Dhanvantari boldly went
(Chapters 6 and 41, Salya Parva, M.B.) . and plucked the diamond on the head of Taksaka and
(5) Four-footed Dhanurveda worshipped Subrahmanya. threw it to the ground. Hearing this Vasuki, King of
(Sloka 22, Chapter 44, Salya Parva, M.B.). serpents, sent to Dhanvantari thousands of serpents
DHANUSA. An ancient sage. He was a priest in the yaga under the leadership of Drona, Pundarika and Dhanan-
of Uparicaravasu. (Sloka 7, Chapter 336, Santi Parva) .
jaya. The poisonous breath of all these serpents joined
DHANUSAKSA. An ancient sage. He killed Medhavi, together made the disciples of Dhanvantari swoon.
son of the sage Baladhi, accusing Medhavi of having Immediately Dhanvantari by a medicine made from
mocked other sages (Sloka 50, Chapter 135, Vana Parva, vanaspati made all his disciples recover and then sent
M.B.) . all the serpents to a swoon. When
Vasuki heard this
DHANVA. One of the Kings of Kasi. Dhanvantari was he sent the serpent-maid, ManasadevI, a disciple of
born as his son. (For details see under Dhanvantari). Siva, to face Dhanvantari. Manasadevi and Gadura
DHANVANTARI I. A deva who was a preceptor in were both disciples of Siva. But Dhanvantari was a
Ayurveda. follower of Gadura. Manasadevi made all the disciples
1) Origin. The devas and asuras together churned the of Dhanvantari swoon but the latter because of his great
milky ocean, Kslrabdhi, to salvage Amrta (Nectar) from proficiency is Visavidya soon brought back his disciples
it. After thousand years there arose from the ocean a to normal. When Manasadevi found that it was impos-
deva with a Kamandalu (water-pot of ascetics) in one sible to defeat Dhanvantari or his disciples by using
hand and a danda in the other. That deva was Dhan- poison ManasadevI took the trisula given to her by Siva
vantari, (Sloka 31, Sarga 45, Bala Kanda, Valmlki and aimed it at Dhanvantari. Seeing this Siva and
Ramayana). Brahma appeared before them and pacifying them sent
The birth of Dhanvantari from the ocean of Milk is them all their way.
described in Chapter 29 of Harivamsa thus : DHANVANTARI II. (Amrtacarya) . An eminent medi-
Prosperous-looking Dhanvantari rising above the water- cal scientist born in the ambastha caste. There is no
level of Kslrabdhi stood worshipping Mahavisnu. Visnu reference anywhere in the Puranas regarding any
gave him the name of Abja. Dhanvantari is thus known relationship between the two Dhanvantaris. There is
by the name of Abja also. Dhanvantari bowing to the following story about Amrtacarya in Ambasthacara-
Visnu said "Prabho, I am your son. Allot to me candrika.
yajnabhaga". Once Galava Maharsi went to the forest to collect
Vtsnu replied thus "Portions of yajna have already
: darbha and firewood. He walked for long and felt
been allotted. Because you were born after the devas thirsty and hungry. Then he saw a girl coming that
you cannot be considered as one among them. You will way with water and Galava quenched his thirst taking
be born again in the world for a second time and then you water from her. Pleased with her the Maharsi blessed
will In your second life even from while
be a celebrity. her saying "May you get a good son." The girl replied
in the womb
you have knowledge of Anima and
will that she was still unmarried. Galava then made a figure
Garima. Therefore you will be born as a deva incar- of a male with darbha and told her to get a child from
nate. You will write in eight divisions a book on that figure. She was a Vaisya girl named Virabhadra
Ayurveda ; your second life will be in Dvapara yuga." and she got a beautiful child of that darbha male.
After having said so much Visnu disappeared. Because the boy was born to a Vaisya of a brahmin
2) Rebirth of Dhanvantari. Suhotra, King of Kasi, in male he belonged to the Ambastha caste. The boy was
the second Dvapara yuga had two sons, Sala and Grtsa- named Amrtacarya.
mada. Sunaka was the son of Grtsamada. Sala got a son, DHANYAMALA. The foster-mother of Atikaya. (See
Arstisena. Kasa was born to Arstisena. To Kasa was Atikaya).
born Dlrghatapas (Dhanva). For a long time Dhanva DHARA. Wife of a Vasu named Drona (see under
did not have any children and so he went and did Nandagopa).
penance to propitiate Abjadeva. Abjadeva (Dhanvan- DHARA I. He is the first Vasu born to Dharmaofhis
tari) was pleased and was
born as a son to Dhanva. wife Dhumra. (Sloka 19, Chapter 66, Adi Parva).
Dhanva named the boy as Dhanvantari and the latter DHARA II. A king who was a friend of Yudhis{hira.
taught his disciples Ayurveda, by parts, eight in num- (Sloka 39, Chapter 158, Drona Parva, M.B.).
ber. From Dhanvantari in order were born Ketuman DHARA. A holy place. If one bathes in this holy
Bhlmaratha Divodasa. (Chapter 29, Harivam>'a) .
place (Bath) his sorrows will be at an end. (M.B.
3) Dhanvantari and Pariksit. There is a story in the Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Stanza 25).
puranas that when Taksaka went and bit Pariksit to DHARAIVA. One of the eight means ofRajayoga (One
kill him, a Visahari (one who cures those infected with of the ways of union with the supreme Spirit). Yama,
snake venom) rushed to save the king but was bribed Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana,
and sent back by Taksaka. There are indications in Dhyana and Samadhi are the eight means (See under
the Puranas to show that the Visahari under reference Rajayoga).
was Dhanvantari though it is stated that Kagyapa was DHARAIVAI. A king born in the family of Candra-
the person involved. (See under Taksaka) . (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 7, Stanza 16).
vatsa.
4) Dhanvantari and Manasddevi. In the Krsnajanma DHARANA II. A naga (serpent) of the family of
DHARAYA (M) 224 DHARMA
Kagyapa. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103, Stanza devas and Sadhya to Sadhyas. These Sadhyas are different
16). from those born of Brahma. Sadhyas became the father of
DHARAIS A(M). AT
measure. In ancient times a dharana Arthasiddhi. Marutvati gave birth to Marutvat and
was made up of ten palas. (Manusmrti) . Jayanta. Vasu gave birth to eight sons and they were
DHARAPALA. A known as Asfavasus. Drona, the first of the Astavasus,
king of ancient times. He ruled over married Abhimati. Abhimati is known as Dhara also.
a country named Vidisa. There is a holy place where
It was Drona and Dhara who were born as
the rivers Vetasi and VetravatI meet. Dharapala cons- Nandagopa
tructed a temple at the confluence. There is a story also
and Yasoda later. Prana, second of the Astavasus,
for his
married Urjasvati, daughter of Priyavrata. (Navama
doing so.
Once a Siva-parsada brought to Siva a woman at a time Skandha, Bhagavata) .
when Parvatl was away from the place. Siva and the 3) Prominent sons. Four sons of Dharma, Hari, Krsna,
woman were enjoying each other when Parvatl came Nara and Nariiyana became prominent. Hari and
to the place. Getting angry she cursed the Parsada and Krsna were great yogis while Nara and Narayana were
made him into a fox. The fox came to the place where great ascetics. (See under Naraniirayana).
the rivers Vetasi and Vetravat! meet and did penance 4 ) The daughter named Dharmavratd. Dharmadcva got a
there and attained Moksa. Dharapala saw the divine daughter named Dharmavrata of his wife Dharmavatl.
plane coming down to take the Parsada away and he, Dharmavrata was an ascetic and she was married to
therefore, constructed a temple at the place where the Marlci, son of Brahma. One day Marici came back
plane landed. He then arranged scholars well versed from the forest after getting darbha and flowers extre-
in Vcdas and gastras to read Padma Purana there. He mely tired and so after food lay down to rest. His wife
himself read Padma Purana and attained moksa. sitting by his side massaged his legs. The sage fell as-
(Chapter 29, Padma Purana)'. leep. Then Brahma came there and Dharmavrata
DHARESVARI. A goddess living in the tirtha (holy
attended on him and worshipped him. Marici, when he
bath) of Jambunada. This goddess is another form of
woke up, finding Dharmavrata attending on another
Parvatl. (Devi Bhagavata, Skanrlha 8). man cursed her and made her into stone. Dharmavrata
DHARIiyl. A
daughter born to the Manes (Pitrs) crea- pleaded not guilty and standing inside a fire-pit did pen-
ted by Brahma, by their wife Svadha. Dharini had an
ance for ten thousand years. Brahma and other devas
elder sister named Mena. Both were expounders of the appeared before her and consoled her by assuring that
Vedas and of good though she would be a stone devas would take their
qualities. (Visuu Purana, Ariv'a 1,
abode in it and that she would be worshipped by all.
Chapter 10).
DHARMA. A deva who is the abode of all luxuries in
From that day onwards that stone was known as Devas ila
life.
and even now it is believed that Brahma and other
1 This deva broke the right nipple of Brahma and
Birth.
devas live therein. (Chapter 114, Agni Purana).
)
came out in the form of a human being. Three sons 5 ) Dharma was cursed and made Vidura by Animandavya. (See
were born to him: ama, Kama and Harsa. Kama Animandavya) .
married Rati, Sama, Prapti and Harsa, Nanda. 1 Other details. ( 1 ) A portion of Dharma took life as Yudhi-
2) Marriage and family life. The Bhagavata states that sthira in Kunti. (See Dharmaputra).
Dharma married the thirteen daughters of Daksapraja- (2) Dharma did penance in Dharmatlrtha for a very
pati named Sraddha, Maitrl, Daya, Santi, Pusti, Tustf, long time, (fsloka 1, Chapter 84, Vana Parva).
Kriya, Unnati, Buddhi, Medha, Titiksa, Hrl and Murti. (3) The abode of Dharma was Dharmaprastha. (Sloka 1,
Besides them he married ten other girls named Bhanu, Chapter 84, Vana Parva) .
Lamba, Kukubh, Jami, Vigva, Sadhya, Marutvati, (4) Dharma did penance on the banks of the river
Vasu, Muhurta and Sankalpa and also a woman named Vaitaram for a long time. (Sloka 4, Chapter 1
14, Vana
Sunrta. According to Mahabharata Dharma married Parva) .
Moda; Unnati Darpa; Buddhi Artha; Medha (6) Dharma appeared in the form of a Yaksa and made
Sukrti; Titiksa Sama; Hrl Prav'raya. Murti gave all the Pandavas swoon except Yudhisthira, on the
birth to the virtuous Naranarayanas. Sunrta became the shores of a pond in the forest and later got them back
mother of the devas, Satyavrata and Satyasena. to normal. (See under Dharmaputra).
Satyasena became famous by slaying many cruel and (7) Dharmadeva went to ViSvamitra in the guise of
evil-natured Yaksas, demons and spirits. Lamba gave Vasis{ha to test him. (See para 3 of Galava).
birth to Rsabha and Vidyotana. Rsabha got a son, (8) Following a directive from Brahma, Dharmadcva
Indrasena. Vidyotana became the father of stanayitnu. once brought before Varunaall the daityadanavas bound
Kukubh delivered Sankata and Sankafa became the by ropes. (Chapter 128, Udyoga Parva).
father of Kikata and Durgadeva. Jami got a son Svarga (9) Mahavisnu was born as a son of Dharmadeva. (See
and of him was born Nandl. Visva gave birth to Vi<va- under Naranariiyana) .
( 10) Dharma worshipped a brahmin named Satya tak- bered their lives in their previous births. It was not
ing the form of a deer. (Sloka 17, Chapter 272, Santi allowed to speak about previous birlhs in open and if
Parva) .
anybody did so death was the penalty. But Nagasri
(11) Dharma
tested Sudars" ana taking the form of a could not control herself and prepared to accept the
brahmin. (Sloka 79, Chapter 2, Anusasana Parva). worst. Nagasri told her husband thus: "I am just remin-
(12) Dharma saved a sage named Vatsanabha from a ded of my life in my previous birth. I will tell you my
great downpour taking the shape of a buffalo. (Chapter story. I was the servant maid of a brahmin named
12, Anusasana Parva) .
Madhava in this same place. I had a husband named
(13) Dharma disguised as a brahmin, went and impart- Devadasa then. My husband was the son of a merchant.
ed advice to Janaka, father of Slta. (Chapter 32, As va- We made a small house of our own and lived there
medha Parva). peacefully. Each of us would bring food from where we
(14) To test Jamadagni, Dharma went to his asrama worked and everyday we used to set apart a portion of
taking the form of Anger. Jamadagni had just milked what we got for guests and the pitrs. We were satisfied
Kamadhenu and kept the milk in a pot. Dharma as with what was left after that. If we got more than one
Anger crept into the milk. Jamadagni drank it and yet set of clothes we would give it to the poor. Then there
remained calm. Seeing this Dharma appeared before came a famine in the country. Our earning also was
him in the form of a Brahmin and blessed him assuring reduced daily. We lived in hunger. One day a hungry
Jamadagni that in future he would be obedient to and tired sannyasi came to our place and we gave him
Dharma (Chapter 91. Asvamedha Parva). the whole of our food. My husband died that
(15) When at the fag end of their life the Pandavas day and I gave away my life jumping into the funeral
started on their Mahaprasthana, Dharma as a dog pyre of my husband. Then I was born in the family of
a King and became your wife."
accompanied them up to the gates of heaven. (Sloka
22, Chapter 5, Svargarohana Parva) .
Dharmadatta also got back the memory of his previous
7) Dharma and Kdla. There is a misunderstanding found birth. He said he was the Devadasa of Nagasri's
even in some Puranas that Kala, the chief of Kalapurl, previous life.
and Dharma are one and the same person. But if the The moment they finished talking about their previous
stories around each are examined it is easy to deduce births both fell down dead. Orphaned Taradatta then
that they are two different devas. The father and lived under the care of her mother's younger sister.
mother of Dharmadeva is Brahma. The father of Kala After some time a Maharsi came to their house and by
is Surya and mother Sariijna, daughter of Vis'vakarma. his blessing Taradatta got a husband named Kalinga-
This itself is a sufficient evidence to show that the two sena. Kalingasena was a brave and daring Prince. Very
are different persons. Further, Kala or Yama is the soon they got a daughter and she was named Kalinga-
sixth descendant of Visnu. sena. ( Kathasaritsagara, Madanamanjuka lambaka,
But scholars are misled to think that the two are iden- Taranga 2).
tical. There is a reason for it. DHARMADATTA II. A Brahmin who lived in the city
Dharmarajah Pitrpatih of Karavira. One day while Dharmadatta was going to
SamavarttI Paretarat / the temple with material for puja he came across a
Krtanto Yamunabhrata demoness named Kalaha on the way. The brahmin
Samano Yamarad Yamah // threw the puja materials in his hand on to the face of
Kalo Dandadharah Sraddha- the demoness. When a tulasl leaf touched the demoness
Devo Vaivasvatontakah. / (Amara) . she got back the memory of her previous birth.
The above are the synonyms of Kala. Vyasa has used as Kalaha then abandoned her cruel nature and begged
synonyms for Dharmadeva in the Mahabharata the Dharmadatta to advise her as to how she should get a
words Dharmaraja, Vrsa and Yama. Now among the release from her demonaic Taking pity on her
life.
synonyms for the two there are two words in common Dharmadatta gave her all the 'punya' he had obtained
Dharmaraja and Yama. This has led to this misunder- by observing Karttikavrata. (Chapters 106, 107, Uttara
standing. Because Kala weighs the evil and good in Khanda, Padma Purana and Chapters 2, 4, 24, 25
man he got the name Dharmaraja. Dharmadeva got Skanda Purana).
that name because he is the incarnation of Dharma. Dharmadatta and Kalaha were born as Dasaratha and
The real name of Kala is Yama. Dharmadeva got the Kaikeyi in their next births as a result of the accumulat-
name Yama because he possesses 'Yama' (control of ed Punya obtained by observing Karttikavrata. (Sara
the self for moral conduct) Kala has no sons; Vidura
.
khanda, Ananda Ramayana) .
DHARMADATTA I. A king of Kosala. He had a wife Once Dharmagupta went to the forests, hunting. Deeply
named Nagasri. By her chastity she became a celebrity interested in the game he never knew when it became
and got the name of Arundhati of the earth. They got dusk. It was late to go back to the palace and so decid-
forest for the night he climbed upon a
a daughter named Taradatta. Once when Dharmadatta ing to stay in the
and 5lagasrl were engaged in conversation both remem- tree and made a seat there to rest. After some time a bear
DHARMAKARA 226 DHARMAPUTRA
followed by a lion came running and took refuge on the lived there for many thousands of years enjoying heaven-
top of the same tree. The lion stood growling below. ly pleasures. Then he went astray from divine life
Seeing a man on the same tree the bear said "Oh, Prince, and had to take life again as Suvrata the son of a
we are both in the same sad plight now. Believe me Brahmin named Sennas' arma.
as a friend. Wecan spend the night on this tree safe. The wise Suvrata discarded the passions of Kama (desire),
Therefore, go to sleep till midnight and I will keep Krodha anger) etc. and controlled his senses and engag-
(
watch over. After that I will go to sleep and you keep ed himself in penance in Vaiduryamahadri. For hun-
watch". Gladly accepting the proposal the prince went dred years he sat in meditation and Mahavisnu was
to sleep and the bear kept vigil. Then the lion suggested pleased with him and took him and his father to
to the bear to push down the prince. The bear replied Vaikuntha. At the instruction of Mahavisnu, Suvrata
that he would never cheat a friend and that it was a took life again in the house of Kayapa. When he died
great sin also to do so. After midnight the bear slept he went to Vaikuntha. In every successive birth he had
and the prince kept watchover. The lion then suggest- the remembrance of his previous birth. (Padma Purana,
ed to the prince to push down the bear. Thinking that Chapter 21).
he would be saved if the bear is given to the lion the DHARMANETRA I. A king of the Hehaya family. He
unfaithful prince pushed the bear down. But the bear was the son of Hehaya and father of Krti. (Brahmanda
escaped catching hold of the branches lower down. Purana, Chapter 2) .
Embittered at this the bear cursed Dharmagupta and DHARMANETRA II. A son of Dhrtarastra. (Sloka 60,
made him mad. Chapter 94, Adi Parva) .
entered into sexual act with a bear in front of the DHARMAPRASTHA. A sacred place. It is believed to
asrama of Gautama at midday and the sage cursed him be the abode of Dharmaraja. There is a general assum-
and made him into a lion. The sage as a relief from the ption that anybody who touches the water in a well
there will be absolved of all sins. (Sloka 99, Chapter
curse had further decreed that he would get his origi-
nal form when he entered into a conversation with me." 94, Vana Parva) .
When Dhyanakastha finished speaking the lion changed DHARMAPUTRA. The eldest of the Pandavas, the
form of Bhadra.
itself into the others being Bhlmasena, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva.
under Arjuna.
Genealogy. See
Dharmagupta remained mad and
1
his father, the King, )
approached Jaimini for help. The sage said that the 2) Pandu, brother of Dhrtarastra, had two wives,
Birth.
Kunti and Madri. There was a curse for Pandu that he
prince would be cured of his madness if he bathed in the
PuskarinI tirtha. The king did as was suggested and would die the moment he touched his wife. (See under
Dharmagupta was cured. Pandu). Kunti, the first wife of Pandu, had obtained
from Durvasas five mantras. The mantras were very po-
DHARMAKARA. A righteous house-holder. Once a tent. If she called upon any god reciting the mantra that
prince entrusted his beautiful wife with Dharmakara God would manifest himself to her and bless her with a
and went away. Though she lived with him for six
son. When Kunti found that Gandharl was pregnant and
months he did not have any kind of contact with her.
was about to deliver she became anxious and meditating
The prince returned. Wicked people tried to arouse
on Dharmadeva recited one of the mantras given by Dur-
doubts about the chastity of his wife and the house-
vasas and got a child from him. The boy was born at mid-
holder. But it was futile. Still fearing calumny Dharma-
kara entered In that test by fire he came out victo-
fire. day on the eighth Jyestha day of the year on Pancami
and at the auspicious hour, Abhijit. At the itirne
rious. Not only did his body remain unscorched, but
of his birth there was a celestial voice which said "This
also that the faces of the wicked people who blamed
him were filled with leprosy and became ugly. (Padma boy will become a very righteous and bold King, best
Purana, Srsti khanda, Chapter 50)
among the virtuous. He will be known as Yudhisthira".
Obeying the dictate of the mysterious voice he was
.
DHARMAKETU. A king of Bhargava gotra. He was the named Yudhisthira. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 123).
son of Suketu and father of Satyaketu. (Navama Skandha,
3) Boy hood. When he had five
sons Pandu went to the forest
Bhagavata) .
of Satasrhga together with his family to spend the spring
DHARMANANDANA. A king of the family of Bhargava. time there. The sages residing in that forest conducted
(Navama Skandha, Bhagavata) .
the christening ceremony of Dharmaputra. Kasyapa,
DHARMA&GADA. A Brahmin who became a deep priest of Vasudeva, performed the Upanayana ceremony
meditator on Visnu, because of his habits in his previous (thread-wearing) of Dharmaputra (Chapter 123, Daksi-
life. Dharmangada was the son of Rukmarigada by natyapatha) Adi Parva, M.B. ). Rajarsi Suka imparted
his wife Sandhyavali. Rukmangada was the son of instructions to Dharmaputra on spear-warfare. Pandu
Rtadhvaja who lived in the city of VidiSa. He was died during their stay there. Madri abandoned her life
a man of good personality, who lived with his
by jumping into her husband's funeral pyre. Before
father and being a generous man he did not hesitate to
doing so she called Dharmaputra to her side and join-
give his head to Mohini for the pleasure of his father. ing her hands together said "Son, you are
now the father
God Visnu was pleased with him because of his love of to your brothers." When Pandu and Mfidrl were dead
his father and of his loyalty to Vaisnavite the sages of the forest took Kunti and the children to
deity and took
him bodily to heaven (Vaikuntha). Dharmangada Hastinapura and entrusted them to the care of Bhisma
DHARMAPUTRA 227 DHARMAPUTRA
detailing to him all that had happened in the forest. to their country and Dharmaputra was crowned king
(Chapter 125, Adi Parva, M.B.) . of half of the country. He started his rule at Khandava-
4) Kaumdra(youth) .
Dharmaputra and his brothers spent prastha, his capital. (Chapter 206, Adi Parva).
their boyhood in Hastinapura along with Duryodhana (6) Narada went to Khandavaprastha and advised them,
and his brothers. Bhimasena became a great foe of how to avoid unpleasantness accruing from their hav-
Duryodhana and his brothers and Duryodhana always ing one wife in common. His advice was that Pancali
nurtured a desire to kill Bhimasena. Once Duryodhana should spend one year with each of the five in turn.
invited Dharmaputra and his brothers to have aquatic (Chapter 207, Adi Parva) .
games in the Gaiiga. Accepting the invitation Dharma- (7) When Abhimanyu was born to Arjuna, Dharmaputra
putra participated in the games along with his brothers. gave ten thousand cows to brahmins as gifts. (Sloka 69,
One night Duryodhana caught hold of Bhlma alone and Chapter 22, Adi Parva) .
tied him with ropes and threw him into the river. When in (8) Yudhisthira got a son Prativindhya of Pancali.
the morning Dharmaputra found his brother missing he (Sloka 79, Chapter 220, Adi Parva) .
ran to his mother to inform her of the loss. KuntI asked (9) Yudhisthira got a son Yaudheya of Devika, daughter
him to start a search and while he was on it Bhimasena of King Sib'i (Sloka 76, Chapter 95, Adi Parva) .
appeared before him and told him how he was thrown (10) When Sri Krsna went to Dvaraka from Indraprastha
into the river by Duryodhana and how he went to Dharmaputra drove the chariot in the place of Daruka,
Nagaloka and was brought to earth with great acquisi- charioteer of Krsna. (Sloka 16, Chapter 2, Sabha
tions from there. Dharmaputra advised them not to Parva) .
make the incident public. They received training in (11) Mayasura constructed a beautiful palace in
warfare in Hastinapura under Dronacarya. Dharmaputra Indraprastha and gave it to Dharmaputra. (Sloka 37,
got great proficiency in chariot-fighting. As Gurudaksina Chapter 3, Sabha Parva) .
(fee for the preceptor) Dharmaputra agreed to bring (12) Yudhisthira decided to perform a Rajasuya at Indra-
Drupada bound before the preceptor. But Arjuna stop- prastha. Even before the Rajasuya Sri Krsna, Arjuna
ped him and himself undertook the task (Chapters 127 and Bhimasena together killed Jarasandha. After that
to 136, Adi Parva, M.B.). Yudhisthira sent Arjuna to the northern side and the
5) Becomes heir-apparent and goes to the forest. Dhrtarastra, other brothers to the southern side for Digvijaya (con-
crowned Dharmaputra as the heir-apparent when the quest of countries) When he established his autocracy
.
trative e fficiency Dharmaputra excelled his father and be- (13) Yudhisthira used to give free sumptuous food to
came very popular among his subjects. Jealous of this thousands of brahmins in golden pots daily. (Chapter 49,
Duryodhana decided to destroy the Pandavas somehow. Sabha Parva) .
With the permission of his father, Duryodhana cons- (14) Envious Duryodhana sent Vidura to bring Dharma-
tructed a palace at Varanavata for the Pandavas to putra to Hastinapura and defeated him foully in a game
reside there. That palace was built of Laksa (See of dice. Though Dharmaputra lost everything Dhrtara-
under Arakkillam) The entire population resented
. stra gave him back everything. (Chapter 72, Sabha
this act of Duryodhana and rebuked him. They tried Parva, M.B.).
to follow Dharmaputra to Varanavata and stay there. (15) Before Dharmaputra went back to his place, with the
But by tactful words he made them abandon that idea. permission of Dhrtarastra, Duryodhana called him back
Still many brahmins followed Dharmaputra. After some again for another game of dice. Despite protests from
all sides Dharmaputra went again for a game of dice
days Duryodhana set fire to the palace. But the Panda-
vas escaped through a tunnel from the house which had with Duryodhana and lost again all he possessed. Then
been constructed without the knowledge of Duryodhana he left the country with his brothers and wife to spend
just at the time of construction of the building. Escap-
twelve years in exile in the forests and another year
ing from there the Pandavas reached the forests and incognito. (Chapter 79, Sabha Parva) .
travelling farther came to the shore of the Ganga. Surya gave the Aksayapatra (a pot which is never
(16)
(Slokas 138 to 148, Adi Parva, M.B.) . emptied) to the Pandavas. (Sloka 72, Chapter 3, Vana
6) Story up to the life incognito. Parva) .
at Hastinapura. But Vidura informed Bhlsma that the (18) He advised Bhimasena
to remain quiet for thirteen
Pandavas were alive. (Chapter 149, Daksinatyapatha, years.(Chapter 52, Vana Parva) .
39, Chapter 169, Adi Parva). met and conversed with Parasurama
(21) Yudhisthira
(4) After the svayarhvara of Pancali, Dharmaputra
at the mountain Mahendra. (Chapter 117, Vana Parva).
narrated to Drupada the story of their escape from
travelled in north India. On
the palace. (Chapter 194, Adi Parva). (22) The Pandavas then
Pandavas returned their way to the mountain of Gandhamadana Pancali
(5) After svayarhvara of Pancali the
DHARMAPUTRA 228 DHARMAPUTRA
fainted and Yudhisthira wept bitterly. (Chapter 145, But waving aside my objections they started taking
Vana Parva) . water from the pond and then I slew them. Now,
(23) From Gandhamadana Dharmaputra with his wife
hear my questions Who carries the Sun? Who are his
:
and brothers reached Badarikasrama and from there followers ? Who makes the sun set? On whom does
the sun exist?"
they returned to Dvaitavana.
(24) When they went toKamyaka vana Sri Krsna visited
Dharmaputra: It is Brahman who carries the Sun.
Devas are his followers. Dharma makes him set. He
Dharmaputra there. (Chapter 153. Vana Parva). exists on Satya.
(25)Duryodhana and his followers made a grand march Yaksa : How does Mahasiddhi come to he Srotriyas ?
to Kamyaka vana to see the Pandavas in sad plight
(those who
study the Vedas).
and there the Gandharva Citrasena bound them all by
Yudhisthira: It happens by deep penance.
ropes. Arjuna on the orders of Dharmaputra got them Yaksa: What is the reason for a brahmin getting divi-
all released. Vana
nity? What deed is equal to good conduct? What makes
(Chapter 246, Parva).
(26) While the Pandavas were in exile in the forest a brahmin mortal and what makes him evil?
Dussasana went and invited Yudhisthira to attend a Yudhisthira: The Brahmin gets divinity by medita-
Vaisnava sacrifice conducted by Duryodhana. But tion. Austerity is equal to good conduct. Death makes
Dharmaputra sent him away saying that it was not a brahmin mortal and abusive words make him evil.
proper to come to the country before the expiry of the Yaksa: What is the divinity of Ksatriyas? What is
period of exile. (Chapter 256, Vana Parva).
equal to good nature? What makes them mortal and
(27) Yudhisthira received the sageDurvasas with respect what makes them evil?
and after offering sent him away contented.
homage Dharmaputra: The divinity of a Ksatriya is weapon.
(Chapter 262, Vana Parva) .
Sacrifice is equal to good conduct. Fear makes him
(28) Jayadratha kidnapped Pan call and in the battle mortal and non-sacrifice makes him evil.
that ensued Dharmaputra slew the King Yaksa: What is the best thing for agriculture? What
ofTrigartta
but left free Jayadratha. (Chapter 272, Vana Parva) . is the most important thing for agriculture? What are
(29) At a time when Yudhisthira was plunged in sorrow the installations of the atmosphere and child-birth?
the sage Markandeya narrated the story of Sri Rama The
best thing for agriculture is rain.
Dharmaputra:
to console him. (Chapters 273 to 291, Vana
Parva). The important thing for agriculture is seed. The ins-
7) How Dharmadeva tested Tudhiflhira. The Pandavas tallation of atmosphere is rays and that of child-birth
travelling through the forests reached Dvaitavana. A is child.
brahmin among their group was making fire by the Yaksa: Who even though he breathes?
is lifeless
arani sticks when a deer rushed at him and took the He who
never offers oblations to a
Dharmaputra:
arani sticks away, carrying them on its horns. The
deva, a guest or a servant is like the dead even though
Pandavas ran after the deer and they travelled far he breathes.
away from their place, still not getting scent of it. They Yaksa: What is bigger than the earth? What is higher
were all tired and thirsty. Yudhisthira directed than the sky? What is swifter than the wind? What
Nakula to climb on the top of a tree and investigate are greater in number than grass?
whether there was any water anywhere nearby. Nakula
Dharmaputra: Mother is bigger than the earth.
did so and reported that he could see a pond not far Father is taller than the sky. Mind is swifter than the
from the place where they were sitting. Yudhis- wind. Thoughts are greater in number than grass.
thira asked Nakula to go and fetch water. Nakula did Yaksa What is it that does not shut its eyes when
:
dead. The country where there is mob-rule is dead. (10) On the first day of the battle Dharmaputra fought
Yaksa: Who isa pandit? Who is an atheist? Who is a duel with Salya. (Sloka 28, Chapter 45, Bhlsma Parva) .
wicked? What are lust and jealousy? (11) Yudhisthira constructed a Vajra Vyuha (an array
Dharmaputra: A righteous man is a pandit. An in the shape of a diamond ) with his army. (Sloka 22,
atheist wicked. Lust is the cause of
is
worldly life. Chapter 81, Bhlsma Parva)
Jealousy is the cause of worry. (12) Yudhisthira fought with fury and defeated Sru-
Yaksa: Though charity, wealth and lust are incom- tayus. (Sloka 8, Chapter 84, Bhlsma Parva).
patible with each other when do they unite together ? (13) Yudhisthira got defeated 'by Bhlsma. (Sloka 2,
Dharmaputra: When charity and wife compromise Chapter 86, Bhlsma Parva).
the above three blend together harmoniously. (14 Bhagadatta attacked Yudhisthira. (Sloka 84, Chap-
The Yaksa was highly pleased with the replies given by ter 96, Bhlsma Parva) .
Dharmaputra. He then offered to revive one of his bro- (15) He fought against Sakuni. (Sloka 11, Chapter
thers and asked Dharmaputra to name whom he should 105, Bhlsma Parva)
do so. Then Yudhisthira named Nakula. Yaksa then (16) Yudhisthira sought permission from Sri Krsna to
enquired why he had named Nakula leaving aside Arjuna kill Bhlsma and he went straight to Bhlsma himself
and Bhima. Dharmaputra replied that though Kunti and asked him how he should be killed. Yudhisthira
and Madri were two wives of Pandu they were both attacked Bhlsma as per the latter's instructions.
mothers to them and so he wanted to see one of the (Chapter 107 to 115, Bhlsma Parva).
sons of Madri alive. He therefore pressed the name of (17) In the meantime Dronacarya made a vow that he
Nakula again. The Yaksa who was none other than would capture Yudhisthira. So Yudhisthira thereafter,
Dharmadeva was immensely happy to hear that reply always kept Arjuna near at hand. (Sloka 3, Chapter 13,
and gave life to all his brothers. He confessed to Drona Parva).
Yudhisthira that it was he who in the form of a deer ( 18) Yudhisthira consoled his own army when Abhima-
came and ran away with the arani sticks. He returned nyu was slain. (Sloka 35, Chapter 49, Drona Parva).
the arani sticks also. Dharmadeva then advised them (19) Yudhisthira attacked Salya and Krtavarma.
to go and spend their life incognito at the court of King (Chapters 95 and 97, Bhlsma Parva) .
Virata blessing them with the assurance that they (20) Yudhisthira was defeated in a fight with Drona.
would never be found out during their life in disguise. (Sloka 18, Chapter 106, Drona Parva).
Dharmadeva disappeared after this and the Pandavas (21) He fought against Duryodhana. (Sloka 15, Chap-
returned to their asrama. (Chapters 312 and 313 of ter 124, Drona Parva).
Vana Parva, M.B.) .
(22) He defeated Dronacarya in another battle.
8) Ajnatavasa (Life incognito). See under Arjuna. (Sloka 27, Chapter 157, Drona Parva).
9) Dharmaputra aad the great battle. Events relating (23) He became moody when Ghafotkaca was killed.
to or involving Dharmaputra from the end of his life (Sloka 27, Chapter 183, Drona Parva).
in disguise up to the end of the Mahabharata battle (24) He made Kama swoon in a fight. (Sloka 21,
are given below: Chapter 49, Karna Parva).
avoid war but when it
Yudhisthira tried utmost to
(25 ) He withdrew from the battlefield after having
(1) been defeated by Asvatthama. (Sloka 38, Chapter 35,
was made clear that the Pandavas would not be given
even an inch of land, he decided to fight. So Yudhi-
Kama Parva).
(26) Karna wounded Yudhisthira. (Sloka 33, Chapter
sthira prepared for a war and camped on one side of Kama Parva).
63,
the Kuruksetra with his army. (Chapter 196, Udyo-
(27) Once Yudhisthira scolded Arjuna and the latter
ga Parva )
greatly offended started to go to the forests and then
(2) Dharmaputra gave instructions to Arjuna to keep his Yudhisthira himself appeased him. (Chapters 63, 70 and
army in vyuhas. (Sloka 6, Chapter 19, Bhlsma 71 ,
Karna Parva) .
happened to reach the realm of Nagas (serpents). He (Chapter 122, Padma Purana).
entered the house of a Naga named Padmanabha. DHARMASARMA II. See under Sivasarma.
When he reached the house Padmanabha had been away DHARMASAVARNI. The eleventh Manu. (See under
carrying the chariot of the Sun. Dharmaranya sat out- Manvantara).
side the house and spent a few days in vow and medita- DHARMASVA. A Brahmin. Once this Brahmin was
tion. Then Padmanabha returned. The Brahmana asked coming home with water from the Ganges. On the way
Padmanabha about the ways of attaining heaven. The he saw Kapakalpa, the servant of merchant Ratnakara,
Naga replied that there was none superior to the Sun. being killed by an ox. Though Kapakalpa was a sinner,
The Brahmin accepted penance and lived in the hermit- his end aroused pity in the heart of the Brahmin. So he
age ofCyavana for a few days. (M.B. Santi Parva, 4 sprinkled the Ganges-water on the body of Kapakalpa,
who instantly regained life and energy. The Brahmin
Chapters from 361).
who saw the power of Ganges-water began to worship
DHARMARANYA (M). Aforest which is a holy place.
It mentioned in Mahabharata, Vana Parva Chapter 82
is
the Ganges from that day onwards. It is mentioned in
Stanza 46, that the moment one enters this forest one
Padma Purana, Kriya Khanda, Chapter 7, that finally
the Brahmin got a boon from the Ganges that only
would become sinless. This place was once the capital
of the King named Asutarajasa. uttering the name of the Ganges should he meet with
See under Kusa
death.
I). DHARMATlRTHA I. A holy place of ancient Bharata.
DHARMARATHA. A king of the family of Angarfija. If a manbathes in a pond there, he would be absolved
He was the great grandfather of Lomapada and the son of all sins. (Sloka 1, Chapter 84, Vana Parva).
of Draviratha. (Chapter 277, Agni Purana) .
DHARMATlRTHA II. Another holy place of ancient
DHARMASAKHA. A king of the Kekaya line of Kings. Bhiirata. If a person bathes in a pond there he would
He had a hundred wives but no children. At last, at an get the benefit of performing a Vajapeya Sacrifice (Sloka
old age, he got a son of Sucandra, wife of his elder 162, Chapter 84, Vana Parva) .
brother. But the hundcrd wives of Dharmasakha were DHARMA VARNA. A Brahmin who lived in the country
pining for having a son and so the king consulted his of Anarta at the end of Kaliyuga. Once when he went
ministers and on their advice conducted a Putrakfimesti to the land of the dead, he saw his fathers hanging by
yajfia (a sacred sacrificial ceremony for obtaining chil- the end of darbha. They requested Dharmavarna to
dren) at Hanumatkunda near the southern sea-coast. marry and obtain sons who would get them relief from
As a result of that each of his hundred wives got a their plight. Dharmavarna married and as soon as he
child.(Skanda Purana, Chapter 15). got a son he went to the forest of Gandhamadana to
DHARMASARMA I. A brahmin who was born a
parrot practise penance there. (Chapters 2, 1 7 and 22, Skanda
named Kanjala in his rebirth. Dharmasarma was one of Purana ) .
DHARMAVATI 232 DHAUMYA
DHARMAVATI. A wife of Dharmadeva. He got of forest among the gods who came against Sri Krsna and
Dharmavati a daughter Dharmavrta. Dharmavrta was Arjuna, there was Dhata also. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chap-
married to Marlci, son of Brahma. (See under Gaya- ter 266, Stanza 34).
tirtha). (2) Dhata gave Subrahmanya five followers named
DHARMAVRTA. A daughter of Dharmadeva. (See Kunda, Kusuma, Kumuda, Darhbara and Adaihbara as
under Gayatlrtha). gift.(M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45 Stanza' 39).
DHARMAVYADHA. Though he was born in the caste DHATA II. It is seen in Visnu Purana, Arhsa 1, Chapter
of foresters he became a saint by following the path of 10, that two sons named Dhata and Vidhata and a
duty and righteousness. In his previous birth he was a daughter Laksmi were born to Bhrgu, the son of Brahma,
Brahmin. He was a friend of a king who was an adept by his wife Khyati. Of them Dhata and Vidhata
in archery. Once both went on hunting expedition to the married Ayati and Niyati, the daughters of Meru.
forest. The brahmin sent an arrow at a wild animal but Laksmi became the wife of Mahavisrui.
the arrow went and struck a sage who was doing DHATREYIK.A. A maid of Pancall during the time of
penance under a tree. When the sage was rolling on the the forest life of the Pandavas. It was this maid who
arrow he said: "Oh, evil-natured Brahmana, may you informed the Pandavas that Jayadratha had kidnapped
be born as a hunter selling flesh in your next life." The (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 269, Stanza 16)
Pancall. .
celestial woman MKrakei'I. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter (5) Once Dhaumya talked about the attributes of the
Sun and advised Dharmaputra to worship the Sun.
94, Stanza 11).
( M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 3) .
DHARSTAVAMSA. A
particular family of kings of (6) In the forest Dhaumya rendered powerless the
the Iksvaku Dynasty. This
family originated from illusive and magical arts of Kirmira, an asura (demon) .
Dyumatsena, the father of Satyavan. (M.B. Vana DHISANA. The wife of Havirdhana born in the
dynasty
Parva, Chapter 298, Stanza 19). Other names such as of the emperor Prthu. Dhisana was born from fire.
(Six
Ayodha Dhaumya, Ayodha Dhaumya, Apodhadhaumya, sons, Praclnabarhis, Sukra, Gaya, Krsna,
Vraja and
Apodhadhaumya etc. are used for this Dhaumya, ( For Ajina, were born to Havirdhana
by his wife Dhisana
details see under born of fire. (Agni Purana Chapter
Ayodhadhaumya) .
18).
DHAUTAMULAKA. A king born of a dynasty of China. DHRSTA. AsonofVaivasvataManu. Iksvaku, Nabhaga
(Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 74, Stanza 14) Dhrsta, Saryati, Narisyanta, Prarhsu. Nrga, Dista'
DHAVALAGIRI. (SVETA PARVATA). A mountain. Karusa and Prsadhra were the sons of Vaivasvata
Arjuna once encamped in this mountain. (Mahabha- Manu. (Bhagavata, Skandha 8)
rata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 27, Stanza 29). DHRSTABUDDHI. A Vaisya who attained heaven by
DHENU. See under Surabhi. performing the fast of Vaisakha Vrata. He lived in the
DHENUKA. country of Bhadravatl. on the bank of the River
General information. A
fierce Raksasa (giant) with the Sarasvatl. The name of the king of the
country was
1
)
The daughter grew up and became the famous Pancall. (1) In the first day's battle Dhrstadyumna confronted
The Pandavas married her. Drona. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 31).
At the time of birth, Dhrstadyumna had a crown on (2) Fought with Bhisma. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chap-
his head, and armour on his body, bow, arrows and ter 47, Stanza 31).
He ran out of the fire into a (3 ) On the second day
sword in his hands. of the battle he formed the
chariot and sat in it as if he were about to begin a disposition of the army called the 'Krauncarunavyuha'
travel of conquest. Seeing this the Pancalas were filled (M.B. Bhisma Parva,Chapter 50, Stanza 42).
with joy. There was a celestial voice: "This boy will (4) A terrible fight ensued between Drona and
destroy the fear of the Pancalas. He is born to slay Dhrstadyumna (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 53).
(5) He fought with As vatthama (M.B.
Drona." At this time the queen approached the sacri- Bhisma Parva,
ficing priest with a request that the children born of the Chapter 61, Stanza 19).
sacrificial fire should consider her as their mother. (6) He killed Damana the son of Paurava. (M.B.
Accordingly the children accepted the wife of Drupada Bhisma Parva, Chapter 61, Stanza 20).
'
him training in the wielding of weapons. He believed (12) He defeated Duryodhana. (M.B.
Bhisma Parva,
that God's will could not be thwarted. After he had Chapter 82, Stanza 53).
learned archery Dhrstadyumna returned to his kingdom. (13) He fought with Vinda and Aravinda. (M.B.
Next, we see Dhrstadyumna at the svayamvara Bhisma Parva, Chapter 86, Stanza 61) .
(marriage) of Pancali. Several kings arrived from (14) He fought with Krtavarma. (M.B. Bhisma
various countries on that occasion. When the auspici- Parva, Chapter 110, Stanza 9).
ous moment came, Dhrstadyumna brought Pancall to (15) He again fought with
Bhisma. (M.B. Bhisma
the nuptial dais. He proclaimed the rules and condi- Parva, Chapter 114, Stanza 39).
tions that the competitors of Svayamvara had to (16) There was a combat with
Drona again. (M.B.
observe. After that he conversed with each king who Drona Parva, Chapter 7, Stanza 48) .
was present. In the Svayamvara Pancall accepted (17) He fought with Susarma. (M.B.
Drona Parva,
Arjuna. The Pandavas and Pancall were given the Chapter 14, Stanza 37).
Kumbhakara mandira (the Palace of Kumbhakara) which (18) He fought with Durmukha. (M.B. Drona Parva,
stood in the city of Drupada, to stay for that night. Chapter 23, Stanza 4).
of
(19) He killed Candravarma
Though the Pandavas were in the guise of Brahmanas, Brhatksatra, King and
Dhrstadyumna had his own doubts about
their identity. Nisadha. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 35, Stanza 65).
1. The fast taken on the eleventh day of the bright lunar fortnight in the month of Vaisakha.
2. Because he was born with Dhrstatva (boldness) amarsatva (impatience) and dyumna (vigour) the son of Drupada was
called Dhrstadyumna. Draupadi was called Krsna as she was of Krsri a varna (dark complexion. Thus Drupada got two children from
'Makha' (sacrifice).
DHRSTAKARMA 235 DHRTARASTRA I
(20) He made Drona swoon by shooting arrows at him Vana Parva, Chapter 22, Stanza 40).
and got into his chariot and sat there. (M.B. Drona (5) During the Bharata-battle, Dhrstaketu supplied
Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 56). the Pandavas with an aksauhim (21870 elephants,
(21) In the fight which continued Drona defeated 21870 chariots, 65610 horses and 109350 infantry).
Dhrstadyumna. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 122, (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 19, Stanza 7) .
Kauravas and made Krtavarma swoon. (M.B. Kama (11) He fought with Ambastha. (M.B. Drona Parva,
Parva, Chapter 22) .
Chapter 25).
(28) He fought with Kama. (M.B. Kama Parva, (12) He killed Viradhanva. (M.B. Drona Parva,
Chapter 59, Stanza 7) .
Chapter 107, Stanza 17).
(29) In the fight with Asvatthama, the Kauravas (13 He fought with the teacher Drona and was killed
caught Dhrstadyumna alive. (M.B. Kama Parva, in the fight. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 125,
Chapter 59," Stanza 39) . Stanza 23).
(30) He happened to enter the camp of Dussasana (14) Among the spirits of those relatives of the
but escaped. (M.B. Kama Parva, Chapter 61, Stanza Kauravas, who died in the Bharata-battle, which were
33). evoked to the surface of the Ganges, by Vyasa, the
(31) In the night, while Dhrstadyumna was sleeping spirit of Dhrstaketu also appeared. (M.B. Asrama-
Asvatthama kicked him to death. (M.B. Sauptika vasika Parva, Chapter 33, Stanza 11 ).
Parva, Stanza 26) .
(15) After his death Dhrstaketu became a Visvadeva
(32) The funeral of Dhrstadyumna was conducted in heaven. (M.B. Svargarohana Parva, Chapter 5, Stanza
according to rites. (M.B. Strl Parva, Chapter 26, 15).
Stanza 34) .
(16) Vyasa has used the following names in his
(33) The Pandavas conducted mourning and offering Bharata for Caidya, Cedija, Cedipati, Cedi-
Dhrstaketu :
to the deified ancestors for Dhrstadyumna (M.B. Strl pungava, CediraJ, Saisupali, Sisupalatmaja.
Parva, Chapter 42, Stanza 4) .
DHRSNU I. The second son of Vaivasvata Manu. (M.B.
(34) After death the spirit of Dhrstadyumna was Adi Parva, Chapter 75, Stanza 15).
absorbed in the Fire-God. (M.B. Svargarohana Parva, A who was the son of Kavi. He
DHRSISfU II. Prajapati
Chapters, Stanza 21). was learned in Vedas. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chap-
4) Names. In Bharata, the names, Draupada, Drona- ter 85, Stanza 133).
hanta, Pancala, Pancaladayada, Pancalakulavardhana, DHRSTI. One of the eight ministers of Dasaratha.
Pancalamukhya, Pancalaputra, Pancalarat, Pancalaraja, Jayanta, Dhrsti, Vijaya, Asiddhartha, Arthasadhaka,
Pancalya, Parsada, Yajnasenasuta, Yajnaseni etc. are A3 oka, Mantrapala and Sumantra were the eight minis-
used as synonyms of Dhrstadyumna. ters of Dasaratha. (Valmiki Ramayana, Sarga 7).
DHRSTAKARMA. A king of the Yayati family, DHRTADEVA. Daughter of King Devaka. Vasudeva
(Bhagavata, Skandha 9) .
married this princess. Viprstha was the son born to the
DHRSTAKETU I. A prince who was the son of couple. (Bhagavata, Skandha 9) .
Dhrstadyumna and the grandson of King Drupada. DHRTAKETU. A king of the Bhrgu family. (Bhagavata,
(Agni Purana, Chapter 278) .
Skandha 9) .
DHRSTAKETU II. A king of the family of Yayati. DHRTARASTRA. I. Father of the Kauravas.
(Bhagavata, Skandha 9) .
1) Genealogy. (See thegenealogy ofArjuna).
DHRSTAKETU III. The
son of Sisupala, the King of 2) Birth. Santanu, a king of the Lunar -dynasty, had
Cedi. The details obtained from Maha.bha.rata about two wives Ganga and Satyavati. Ganga gave birth to
this King are given belcKv. eight sons. But seven of them were thrown into the
( 1 ) Dhrstaketu was
the rebirth of Anuhlada, the son of river Ganga. Giving the eighth son Bhisma to Santanu
Hiranyakasipu. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Ganga disappeared. Santanu then married Satyavati,
Stanza 7). a fisher-woman. Satyavati gave birth to two sons, Cit-
(2) Dhrstaketu was anointed as King after the death rangada and Vicitravlrya. When Santanu grew old,
of Sisupala. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 45, Citrarigada was anointed as King, as Bhisma had taken
Stanza 36) . Brahmavrata (vow of celibacy). Once when Citrari-
(3) After the death of his father, Dhrstaketu became gada went to the forest for hunting, a Gandharva of the
a tributary King of the Pandavas (M.B. Vana Parva, name Citrarigada killed him. So Vicitravirya became
Chapter 12, Stanza 2). the King of Hastinapura. Bhisma took the three daugh-
(4) Dhrstaketu had a sister named Karenumatl. (M.B. ters of the KingofKasi, Amba, Ambika and Ambalika
DHRTARASTRA I 236 DHRTARASTRA I
and offerings for the dead on a large scale (M.B. Drona Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 39.
Parva, Kama Parva, Stri Parva, Santi Parva and After the Bharata-battle, Yudhisthira performed horse-
Asramavasika Parva) . Arjuna led the sacrificial horse. He travelled
sacrifice.
they came to Kuruksetra and lived in the hermitage of keeper of this jewel, which was under the custody of
Satayupa for a time. During that period Narada serpent Sesa was Dhrtarastra, the son of Vasuki.
visited them. The Pandavas and the subjects visited Knowing that it was not easy to get the jewel, Babh-
them again. Vyasa also came there. He took Dhrtara- ruvahana fought with Dhrtarasfra. After a terrible
stra and the of them to the river Ganges and
rest fight he got the jewel. But Dhrtarastra, who did not
evoked the of those who died in the battle. want Arjuna to come to life again, stole the head of
spirits
Vyasa gave Dhrtarastra divine eye to see the departed Arjuna, by the help of his sons and threw it into the
spirits. After this, at the request of Vyasa they all hermitage of Dalbhya.
returned. Dhrtarastra, Gandhari and Kunti went to DHRTARASTRl. A daughter born from Tamra the
Gahgadvara and performed severe penance and were wife of KasyapaPrajapati. Tamra had five daughters :
burnt to de~ath in a wild fire. The relatives put their KrauncI, Bhasi, Syeni, Dhrtarastrl and Sukl. Of these,
remains in the Ganges. The spirits of the three Dhrta- from KrauncI, the owls, the Bhasas from Bhasi. the
rastra, Gandhari and Kunti entered the realm of eagle and vulture from SyenI, the swans and the ruddy
Kubera. (M.B. Asramavasika Parva, Svargarohana goose from Dhrtarastrl were born in the world. (This
Parva ) .' occurs in Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Sarga 14) .
'
8) The names of Dhrtarastra. Ajamldha, Ambikasuta, DHRTASENA. A king who took the side of the
DHRTAVARMA 238 DHRUVA i
Kauravas. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 6, Stanza father, my own endeavour." He then started for the
by
3).
forest. He
attained self-renunciation even in childhood
DHRTAVARMA. The brother of Suvarma, the king of becoming a disciple of hermits and performing severe
Trigarta, and Ketuvarma. Arjuna led the sacrificial penance.
horse of Asvamedha performed by Yudhisthira after
Dhruva began penance in the forest of Madhuvana on
the river Jamuna. Suniti came and tried to take him to
the Bharata war. Suryavarma the king of Trigartta, con-
the palace. But he did not return. He intensified his pena-
fronted Arjuna and was defeated. Ketuvarma who
nce more and more. At last Mahavisnu appeared before
came next was also killed. Dhrtavarma came next.
and inflicted wound on him. Dhruva requested for a lofty, and eternal place
He showered arrows on Arjuna
Gandlva fell from his which would become a prop of the world. Accordingly,
hishand, and the famous bow,
hand. Arjuna grew angry and
Visnu pointed out to Dhruva, a noble place, higher
fought so fiercely that
than the planets, stars Saptarsis (Ursa Major) and the
eighteen famous and mighty Trigartta warriors fell.
Dhrtavarma fell at the feet of Arjuna and devas who travelled in aeroplanes. Mahavisnu said
At last
that Dhruva would live in a lofty place as a star till
begged for pardon and accepted the supremacy of
the end of the Kalpa and his mother Suniti would also
Yudhisthira. (M.B. Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 74).
remain as a star near Siva as long as Dhruva lived
DHRTAVATl. (GHRTAVATl). A famous river. M.B.
Amsa 11 and
Bhisma Parva, Chapter (Visnu Purana, 1, Chapters 12).
9).
2) The previous birth of Dhruva. Mahavisnu appeared
DHRTAVRATA. A king of the family of Yayati. (Bha- before Dhruva and revealed his previous birth.
gavata, Skandha 9). Dhruva was a Brahmin in his previous birth. He used
DHRTI I. A daughter of Prajapati
Daksa. She was one to meditate on Visnu with concentration of mind. In
of the wives of Dharmadeva. Madrl, the mother of course of time he befriended a prince who was a youth,
Nakula and Sahadeva, was the rebirth of Dhrti. (M.B. of beautiful and bright complexion, enjoying all the
Adi Parva, Chapter 67). Dhrti had given birth to Niya- pleasures of the world. Attracted by the position and
ma when she was the wife of Dharmadeva, who had status of the prince, the Brahmin wanted to become a
married Sraddha, Laksmi, Dhrti, Tusti, Medha, Pusti, prince. Mahavisnu granted his wish. Accordingly
Kriya, BuddhI, Lajja, Vapus, Sand, Siddhi and Kirti, Dhruva took his next birth as the son of Uttanapada.
thirteen of the daughters of Daksa. v Visnu Purana, (Visnu Purana, Amsa 1, Chapter 12).
Amsa I, Chapter 7). 3) The reign and end of Dhruva. After receiving the boon
DHRTI II. A Visvadeva 'god (M.B. Anusasana Parva,
.
from Mahavisnu, Dhruva returned. All who were there-
Chapter 91). embraced Dhruva. Years passed by. Uttanapada left
his kingdom to Dhruva and became a forest house-
DHRTI The son of Vitahavya, the king of Videha.
III.
holder. Dhruva became King. The King Dhruva
He was a contemporary of Vyasa and Vicitravirya the
married Brahml, the daughter of Sisumara a Prajapati.
king of the Kurus. Bahulasva was the son of this The queen gave birth to two sons Kalpa and Vatsara.
Dhrti. (M.B. Adi Parva).
Dhruva married Ila the daughter of Vayu (wind) She .
DHRTIMAN I. A king of the family of Yayati. (Bhaga- gave birth to a son named Utkala.
vata, Skandha 9) . Uttama remained unmarried. While he was hunting in
DHRTIMAN II. An ancient country in Kusadvlpa the forest a Yaksa (a demi-god) killed him. Suruci was
Vaineya was born from the right hand of Vena. That After making Satrujjit King, Yudhajit began to search
King is the famous Prthu. This Prthu milked the earth for Manorama and Sudarsana. He got news that they
for the prosperity of his subjects. (Visnu Purana, Arhsa lived in Citrakuta. Yudhajit went there with an army.
1, Chapter 13). But he could not get them out of the hermitage of
5) The place of Dhruva. The origin of the river Gaiiga Bharadvaja. Manorama and Sudarsana lived safely in
was through the hole at the top of the shell of the the hermitage.
mundane egg. It flowed down and fel on the highest 1
Once Vidulla came to the hermitage of Bharadvaja to
part of heaven. That place is called Visnupada. Sitting enquire about Manorama. Seeing the old man the
in this Visnupada, Dhruva does penance to Visnu. So hermit boys called out "Kliba Kliba." Prince Sudar{ana
this place got the name Dhruvamandala. (Devi Bhaga- heard only "KlI". The syllable 'KH' is the spell called
vata, Skandha 8) .
'Kamaraja bljamantra'. Without knowing its meaning
DHRUVA II. He was the son of Nahusa and the brother Sudarsana called out 'KH' several times. With that the
of Yayati. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter' 75, Stanza 30) prince got a special power.
Six more years passed. The prince became eleven years
DHRUVA A king. He sits in the council of Yama
III.
old. By this time Bharadvaja had taught the prince
and serves him. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Stanza
Vedas, Sastras, etc. The prince was a devotee of Devi.
10) Devi appeared before him and gave him a bow and a
DHRUVA IV. A warrior who fought on the side of the
quiver which would never become empty, and an
Kauravas against the Pandavas. He was killed by
impenetrable armour. Sudarsana married Sasikala the
Bhimasena (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 155, Stanza
daughter of the King of Ka^I. Nisada, the King of
27) Srrigiverapura, was a friend of Dhruvasandhi. He gave
DHRUVA V. A king who supported Yudhisthira. (M.B. Sudarsana a chariot which Sudarsana rode through the
Drona Parva, Chapter 158, Verse 39) . forest. With the help of the King of KasI and others
DHRUVA VI. A son born to Dharmadeva by his wife Sudarsana recaptured Ayodhya. He made Vidulla his
Dhumra. He was one of the asta Vasus minister and ruled over trie country for a long time.
(eight Vasus) .
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 19) . (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 3) .
DHRUVAKA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B. Salya DHUMAPA. A set of deified manes (Pitrs) who form a
Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 75) .
gana (Siva's hosts of deities) This Gana is seen to
.
DHRUVARATNA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B. have attended the sacrifice of Daksa. (M.B. Santi
Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 4) . Parva, Chapter 284, Stanza 8.)
DHRUVASANDHI. A king of Kosala. During the reign DHUMAPALA. A river. (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, Chapter
of this there was prosperity in
King Ayodhya and the 9, Stanza 18).
were virtuous. This king had two wives
people DHUMAVATl. A The
wishes of those who
holy place.
Manorama and A son
named Sudarsana was
Lilavatl.
take three in this
born to Manorama. After a month the second wife days' holy place are realised.
fast
Satrujit. The King was DHUMINI. The wife of King Ajamidha of Puru dynasty.
much pleased and both sons were brought up alike.
As Satrujit was cleverer than Sudarsana people loved By this wife, a son named Rksa was born to Ajamidha.
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Stanza 32) .
Satrujit more.
Once Dhruvasandhi went to the forest for hunt-
DHUMOR^AI. The wife of King
of Death) Yama (God .
ing and was killed by a lion in the forest. Accord- DHUMORIMA II. The wife of hermit Markandeya.
ing to the custom Sudarsana became King. Lila-
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 146, Stanza 4).'
the mother of Satrujit was the
vatl, daughter of the DHUMRA I. A hermit. This hermit was a luminary in
King of Ujjayini. Her desire was to make Satrujit the the Durbar of Indra. (M.B. Sabha Parva,
Chapter 7)
King. Manorama the mother of Sudarsana was the
.
fled from the capital. Vidulla and the maid of DHUMRAKETU. A son of Bharata.
Five sons named
Manorama accompanied them. In two days they Sumati, Rastrabhrt, Sudarsana, Varana and Dhumraketu
reached Garigatata. They were caught
by fishermen
thieves and they lost everything they had. At last with
were born to Bharata by his wife Pancajanl. (Bhagavata.
1
bkandha r
1 1
5)
\
.
\O
the help of a boat they crossed the
Ganges and reached DHUMRAKSA I. A king of the Iksvaku dynasty.
Trikuta. They went to the DHUMRAKSA A minister of Ravana.
hermitage of Bharadvaja II.
DHOMRASVA 240 DHYANA
Genealogy. Brahma created the Raksasa (giant) Heti. name Dhundhumara, which meant 'the killer of
1
The son Vidyutkesa was born to him of his wife Bhaya. Dhundhu. (M.B. Vana Parva, 4 Chapters from 201) .
Sukesa was born to Vidyutkesa by his wife Salakatarika. DHUNDHU II. An ancient King who lived on vegetable
Sukesa married Devavatl. Three sons, Malyavan, food only. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 115,
Sumall and Mall were born to the couple. To Sumali, Stanza 66).
by his wife KetumatI, fourteen children were born: DHUNDHUKARI. See under Gokarna.
Prahasta, Akampana, Vikata, Kalakamukha, Dhumra- DHUNDHULI. See under Gokarna.
ksa, Danda, Suparsva, Sarhhrada, Prakvada, Bhasa- DHUNDHUMARA. A king of the Iksvaku dynasty.
karna, Veka, Puspotkata, Kaikasi, and Kumbhmasi; (See under Kuvalasva) He was
Kuvalayasva
. also called
most of them were ministers of Ravana. (Uttara DHUNDHUMUKA. A wicked King. Visalya was his wife.
Ramayana) . Even at the marriage of his son this wicked King remain-
2) Work and death. Dhumraksa was one who worked in ed indifferent. He indulged in sexual activities with a
all the branches of administration of the state. In all Siidra woman. Not much later he killed her. As soon
the battles fought by the Raksasas Dhumraksa was as her brother knew about this he ran to the palace
present. He was also called Dhumralocana. He was and killed the King Dhundhumuka along with his wife.
killed in the battle of Rama and Ravana at the hands Because he was killed by a Siidra, the family of the King
of Hanuman. (Valmiki Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda, faced destruction. His son was also wicked like his
Chapter 51). father. But on the advice of a sage he begant o utter
DHUMRASVA. A He was
king of the Iksvaku dynasty. (the five-syllabled and six-syllabled mantras of Siva)
the son of and the father of Sanjaya.
Sucandra in consequence of which, his parents were redeemed.
(Valmiki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Sarga 47) .
(Liiiga Purana) .
DHUNDHU I. A notorious Asura. He was the son of DHUNDHURA. An Asura. It is stated in Ganesa
the Madhu Kaitabhas. Purana that asura went to the house of Ka^yapa
this
Brahma was born in the lotus from the navel of Visnu, in the shape of a parrot and tried to kill Gane.'a who
who was lying in meditation on the surface of water. had incarnated in the house of Kasyapa, but was
From the ear-wax of Visnu two asuras Madhu and killed by him.
Kaitabha sprang up. They terrified Brahma by sha- DHURANDHARAM. A country in ancient India. (M.B.
king the stalk of the lotus. Brahma became terribly Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 18).
afraid of the asuras and ran about on the surface of DHURTA. A King of ancient India. (M.B. Adi Parva,
water. Hearing the cry of Brahma Visnu awoke, but Chapter 1, Stanza 238).
he could not defeat the asuras. Visnu decided to DHURTAKA. A serpent born in the family of Kaurava.
employ 'Sama' (conciliation) the first expedient. The He fell in the sacrificial fire of King Janamejaya and
arrogant demons ordered Visnu to ask of them any was burnt to death. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 57,
boon. Visnu replied. "If it is so, you must be killed by Stanza 13).
me." They could not but give the boon. They agreed DHVAJAVATI. The daughter of the hermit Harimedha,
to the request of Visnu and said: "But we must be who lived in the sky, according to the order of the
killed in an atmosphere, which is not cloudy." Visnu (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 110, Stanza 13).
Sun.
them when the atmosphere was clear.
killed
DHVAJINl. A country in ancient India. (M.B. Bhisma
A son named Dhundhu had been born to Madhu and Parva, Chanter 83) .
this boon, he lived under sand in the desert of Ujjalaka. Dhvasanti and Purusanti from danger. Rgveda,
His idea was to destroy the gods. Mandala 1, Anuvaka 16/Sukta 112).
A hermit named Uttaiika had erected his hermitage in DHYANA. ( Meditation)
Even from ancient times the
.
another part of Marudhanva and began penance. By his people of Bharata believed that heaven could be attain-
penance he made Visnu appear before him and then ed by meditation. There are scientific methods of
made a request that Dhundhu's activities be put a meditating upon God. They are described below:
stop to. Visnu replied "Uttarika! Dhundhu has become The root "dhyai", means "to think". Dhyana (medi-
a curse to the three worlds. There is a king named tation) means thinking of God with concentration.
Kuvalaiva, born of the dynasty of Iksvaku. He will God is invisible and iigureless. We can meditate only
kill Dhundhu." Saying these words, Visnu disappear- upon some material that contains the attributes of God.
ed. So dhyana (meditation) is to fix the mind on the
Uttahka went to the palace of KuvalaSva and told object of meditation, and
to imagine that particular
him what Visnu had said. Kuvalasva and his sons object in a particular place and to concentrate the
went to the forest and killed Dhundhu in a fight. mind upon it. One who casts oft' his body, while engag-
From that day KuvalaSva came to- be known by the ed in meditation attains 'Sayujya' (oneness with God).
i. Dhundhu was ihe son of Kasyapa, born of Danu. It was to kill Dhundhu that Visnu incarnated a Vamana, Vamanapurana
Chapter 8.
DIBHAKA 241 DILIPA I
He who can meditate upon God, with concentration either fight with them or give them tribute (in the
of mind even for a moment or two can attain heaven. form of money). Janardana went to Dvaraka, just as
The fruits he attains are far greater than the fruits Akrura, a devotee of Visnu, went to Ambadi with the
attained by performing great sacrifices and offerings. message of Karhsa. Immediately Krsna and Balabhadra
For meditation, there are four factors Dhyata (the
: with the chief Ministers like Satyaki went to Salva. In
meditator), Dhyiina (the act of meditation) Dhyeya the war that followed Sri Krsna killed Harhsa and Bala.
(the object meditated upon) and Dhyanaprayojana Bhadrarama killed Dibhaka. (M.B. Bhavisya Parva,
(the attainment by meditation). He who indulges in Chapter 103-129).
meditation is the meditator. The act done by him is
DIGV1JAYAPARVA. A sub-division of the Sabha Parva
meditation. That which is meditated upon is the object of Mahabharata. It comprises of Chapters 25 to 32 of
of meditation. What the meditator obtains as a result Sabha Parva.
of his meditation is the attainment. A meditator should
be wise and virtuous, should have attention and patie-
DIK. A river. The Mahabharata, (Bhisma Parva, Chapter
9, Verse 18) states that the water of this river was used
nce, devoted to Visnu and always energetic.
We can meditate upon God, walking, standing, sleeping
for drinking by the people in India.
and awake. God should be consecrated in the centre of DlKSA. Diksa the vrata that expels sin and increases
is
the lotus chair of the heart and be worshipped with de- Jnana (wisdom) . Those who are
to be blessed fall into
votional meditation. It three categories. The person who belongs to the first
is togive practice in fixing the
mind firmly on a particular object, that the sages say category is called Vijnanakala; the second is Pralaya-
that some visible material object should be given to kala; and the third is Sakala. Vijnanakala is free from
meditate upon, in the early stage of meditation. When sin alone. Pralayakala is free from sins and Karmans.
concentration of mind is obtained by meditating upon Sakala has everything from Kala to the earth. The
a visible object, it will be possible for us to meditate Diksas to be practised by the three classes of persons
are of different kinds. Diksa is classified into two:
upon an object which is not amenable to our senses.
When "Niradhara and Sadhara.
engaged in meditation we should be thinking
"Aharh Brahma jyotiratma vasudevo vimukta Orh". (I Niradhara Diksa is performed for the sake of Vijnana-
am Brahma,the light, the Spirit, Vasudeva, and Vimukta kala and Pralayakala. Sadhara Diksa is prescribed for
(having no connection with anything), OM). (Agni the third class of people, the Sakaias.
Purana, Chapter 374). DILlPA I. (Khatvanga) . A mighty king of the Iksvaku
DIBHAKA. A prince who, puffed up by the power of dynasty.
boons and blessings from the gods, tried to harm sage (1) Genealogy. See Dasaratha's Genealogy.
Durvasas. Balabhadrarama killed him. The following one of the
is counted as
2)Reign and Birth of Son. Dilipa
account occurs in the Bhavisya Purana. noblest kings. His reign was extremely popular. But
Brahmadatta, King of Salva, had two wives. No chil- even after a long period of married life, he had no
dren were born to them for several years. Brahmadatta 's issue. His queen was Sudaksina, the princess of Maga-
minister, Mitrasaha, also had no children. Mitrasaha dha. In order to get Vasi Sana's advice, Dilipa and
was a brahmin and a scholar. On his advice, Brahma- Sudaksina went to the sage's aSrama. After hearing
datta, with his wives, went to Kailasa and performed about their grievance, Vasistha meditated for a little
tapas to please Siva to get children. As a result of ten while and described why the royal couple were not
years' rigorous tapas Siva was pleased and blessed blessed with children: "Long ago, Dilipa had paid
him that two sons would be born to him. Later his a visit to Indra. While returning after the visit, he
wives gave birth to two sons. The son of the eldest
passed by Kamadhenu
who was lying under the shade of
queen was named Harhsa and that of the second queen Kalpavrksa. He paid no heed to her, as he did not
was named Dibhaka. At this time a son was also born see her. The divine cow (Kamadhenu) took this as
toMitrasaha, the minister by the blessing of Visnu. That a personal slight to her and cursed the King that he
child was named Janardana. would not have children until he served and propitiat-
Harhsa and Dibhaka were spoilt, but Janardana was ed her daughter, Nandini. Neither the King nor his
a bhakta of Visnu. Harhsa and Dibhaka performed charioteer was aware of the curse. Kamadhenu has
tapas in their childhood to please Siva and got invinci- now gone to Patala (underworld) to attend a sacrifice
ble power and arrows. After that they became loka- of Varuna. Therefore Dilipa and his queen should
kantakas (torturers) and went round the world. Once attend on and propitiate her daughter, Nandini."
they went to Kasyapa's asrama and destroyed the place From the next morning the King and queen began to
of worship. After that they went to the agrama of offer their services to Nandini. The King followed her
Durvasas. There they tortured the sages and made the as her shadow. After twentyone days, one morning
sages naked who were wearing only loin cloth. Then Nandini went to graze in a dense forest. As usual, the
reached the middle
they returned. King also followed her. As they
the was enchanted for a moment
Enraged by these, sage Durvasas went to Dvaraka of the woods, King
charm of the Sylvan scenery. Just then, on
taking the destroyed loin-cloth and other articles. Sri by the
towards Nandini
Krsna and his courtiers stood up and saluted him when turning round he saw a lion springing
they saw Durvasas coming like sariihararudra. On to prey upon her. Suddenly he took up his bow and
hearing the news, Sri Krsna assured him that he would aimed an arrow at the lion, but to his great amaze-
kill Harhsa and Dibhaka and sent him back pacified. ment, his hands were paralysed.
The lion spoke to him
Harhsa and Dibhaka began a rajasuya. They sent as follows: "O King, you need not exert yourself in
Janardana to Sri Krsna with the message that he should vain. I am the servant of Lord Siva. This holy deodar
DILIPA II 242 DIPAKARNI
tree which you see in of us, was planted and
front and organized a secret conference. The subject of
tended by Parvatl. My task
to protect this tree.
is was the cruel deeds done by the cat to the
discussion
Parvati and lord Siva have authorized me to kill and rats.
eat the animals which come this way. Therefore this The next day Diihclika went secretly to examine the
cow is my food." ways of living of the cat. 1'he cat ate Diriidina. After
The king was in a fix. He begged the lion to spare 40 days the rats came to know that Dimdika was
Nandinl and to eat body instead. The
his (king's) missing. They assembled secretly. They elected a rat
lion agreed. The King put down his arms and stood named Kokila as their leader. Lnder his leadership
bowing down in front of the lion. Hearing the words, the rats declared independence and left the place. The
"Beloved child, arise" he looked up, and the lion had cat also went his own way finding no means to get food.
vanished. Just then Nandinl told him that it was she (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 160).
herself who had done this to test him. The King and DlJXlNAGA. A Sanskrit dramatist who lived between the
Nandinl then returned to the Asrama. As a result of second and iifth centuries A.D. "Dhiranaga" was his
Nandini's blessing, the King's wife bore a son who other name. The Sanskrit drama "KUNDAMALA"
later became the celebrated emperor Raghu. (Padma which is based on U ttara Ramayana and has six acts,
Purana, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 198). was composed by Dirinaga. Dirinaga, the Buddhist pre-
Once a powerful Asura acher and this Dinnaga arc two different persons.
( 3) Killing of the Asura, Virasena.
named attacked Vaisravana. When lord
Virasena Vinayaka and Siva are praised in the introductory stan-
Siva came to know of it he tried to defeat Virasena, zas of Kundamala (A.B. Keith: Classical Sanskrit
but in vain. At Siva's request, Mahavisnu entered the literature) .
scene. He was also unable to subdue the Asura. DlNANAl'HA. A King who lived in Dvapara Age. He
Visnu advised Vaisravana to seek the help of Dilipa. was a mighty and famous Vaisnava. But his childless
life distressed him very much. Once he consulted
Dilipa went to Alakapuri and encountered Virasena.
Under the shower of arrows fram Dilipa, blood began Galava about his plight. Galava assured him that if he
to flow from the body of Virasena. But each drop of performed a human sacrifice, a son would be born to
his blood came to life as a new Virasena and all those him. A handsome, scholarly and highly-born man was
Virasenas continued a ceaseless battle with Dilipa. to be sacrificed into the fire, A cripple, a dark-skinned
At last Dilipa prayed to Raktesvari who suddenly man or a crude fellow was unsuitable for the purpose.
The King's servants scoured the villages and towns
appeared and drank all the blood. In this way the king
managed to kill Virasena. (Kampa Ramayana, Yuddha looking for such a perfect man, but in vain. At last
Kanda). they reached a country called Dasapura, inhabited by
noble Brahmanas. The women of that place were
(4) Dilipa and
the Holy Waters. Once king Dilipa led
a saintly life on the bank of Ganga, the sacred place reputed for their charming eyes. No man could resist
their fascination. In that lovely city there lived a
worshipped by Devas, Rsis and Gandharvas. With Brahmana named Krsnadeva with his virtuous wife and
religious practices and offering puja to Devas, Rsis
three sons. The King's servants requested Krsnadeva
and Pitrs, he spent time in prayer and meditation.
to give one of his sons to be sacrificed. They offered
One day he happened to meet Vasistha, and paid
four lakhs of gold coins as price. The Brahmana and
homage to him. The sage Vasistha described to him his wife cried bitterly and Krsnadeva offered himself
all the places of sacred waters and explained the great-
instead of his sons. The royal servants seized one of his
ness of each. (See under Khatvahga) (Padma Purana, .
DIPTAROMA. A Vi^vadeva. (M.B. Anus asana Parva, 2) Family Life. In brilliance of parts, Dlrghatamas
1
DIVIRATHA II. A king. He was the son of Dadhivahana. the temple, Kumbhaka began to participate in the
the people. His blessings were much
In the course of Paras urama's extermination of spiritual matters of
Gautama rescued a son of Diviratha sought after and people
came to have deep faith in
Ksatriyas, the sage
and gave shelter to him. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter him.
Divodasa had no children. He had made many pious
49, Verse 80 rites for
DIVODASA. (ATITHIGVA). A king of Ka^I. offerings to gods and performed many holy
his wife's but it was all in vain.
1) Genealogy. From Visnu descended in the following removing sterility,
order: Brahma - Atri - Candra - Budha - Pururavas - At last, at the King's suggestion, she began to offer
for issue. But even after
Ayus - Anenas Pratiksatra Srnjaya
- - -
Jaya - Vijaya
-
puja to Kumbhaka praying
- -Samkrti- a long period of devoted worship, she received no
Krti-Haryasva-Sahadeva-Nadina Jayatsena Moved by the pathetic
Ksatradharma-Suhotra-Sala - Arstisena-Kasa - Dlrgha- blessing or boon from the sage.
- Dhanvantari - Ketuman - Bhimaratha - condition of his queen, Suyasas, Divodasa reproached
tapas
Divodasa. Kumbhaka very severely. He reprimanded him for
while he was shower-
Divodasa's great grandfather's father, Kasa had many denying his blessings to the queen
were called the Kasis. It was from Kasa's ing them on all and sundry in the country. Provoked
sons.They
to be called Kasi. (Hari at the King's rebuke, Kumbhaka pronounced a curse
reign that VaranasI came
that the country should be ruined. As a result of it the
Varhsa, Chapter 29) .
2 ) Divodasa's Reign. When Divodasa began his rule in country began to decline. (Harivarhsa, Chapter 29).
Siva and Parvati came and settled down in VaranasI.
VaranasI, there was a Raksasa named Ksemaka.
Divodasa killed him and extended his kingdom. At After some years, Parvati began to press her husband
to leave the place and to go somewhere else.
Siva was
that stage, Bhadrasrenya, King of Hehayas invaded
Divodasa. Divodasa killed the hundred sons of Bhadra- not inclined to do so. He said the place was "Avimu-
kta" and therefore insisted that he would not leave
srenya. At that time the sage Kumbhaka (Nikumbha)
came to Kasi. His practice was to live for a thousand it. From that time the place came to be called
where he reached at the time of "Avimukta."
years at any place
dusk. Since he had reached VaranasI at dusk, he set up 3) Other details.
his life Divodasa became a
an asrama and lived there for a thousand years. At (1) Towards the end of
There are numerous references
that time there was a famine in VaranasI. The whole Rajarsi (Royal Saint).
to this Rajarsi in the Rgveda. Since Divodasa was of
land was in the grip of a severe drought. Kumbhaka's
asrama and its surroundings alone remained green and a very hospitable nature he was known by another
16th
cool. Herdsmen used to take cattle to graze in the name, "Atithigva". In Rgveda, 1st Mandala,
he hid him-
Anuvaka, 127th Sukta, we read that once
neighbourhood of the asrama. Once when they
retur-
self under water to escape from an Asura called
ned in the evening, they took with their cows, the
Sarhbara.
sacrificial cow of Kumbhaka. It was dark and
the sage
a son named "Parucchepa who
but could not trace (2) Divodasa had
,
searched for the cow everywhere 127th
its whereabouts At last he came to know by intuition was a Rsi. Rgveda 1st Mandala 19th Anuvaka,
that his cow was taken away by the herdsmen. In
his Sukta relates to Parucchepa.
father of Divodasa, had two other
he cursed that VaranasI should be ruined and left (3) Bhimaratha, the
rage and Sudeva. Divodasa purchased
the place with his disciples. (See under Kumbhaka)
. names, Bhlmasena,
The of the ruin of VaranasI in Harivarh >a is diff- Madhavl, the daughter of Yayati after paying two
story
It was the time when Siva had married Parva ti, hundred Syamakarnasvas (beautiful horses with dark-
erent.
coloured ears) to Galava, so that he might have chil-
the daughter of Himavan. After marriage Siva shifted
task was dren. , After the birth of his children, he returned
his residence to his wife's house. Siva whose
to look after the affairs of the world, was never availa-
Madhavl to her father. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter
ble for the purpose at Kailasa, his own seat. 117).
He sits in Yama's assembly and offers Puja to
The gods were in a helpless condition. They ap- (4)
Verse 12).
Parvatl's mother, Mena and requested her
Yama. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 8,
proached
DIVYADEVl 246 DRAVIDABHASA
(5) Divodasa once plundered the accessories of his fora Brahma's life-span. Then Brahma is re-born and
enemies. Agnihotra vanished after it. (M.B. Santi resumes creation. (Bhagavata, Dasama Skandha).
Parva, Chapter 96, Verse 21) .
DRAUPADI. Pancali, the wife of the Pandavas. (See
(6) It was at the behest of Indra that Divodasa built under Pancali) .
the 5th century Kannada could be seen in its ancient 100 sons of Dhrtarastra killed in the
great war by
form. The modern Kannada has been used from 16th Bhima. (Drona Parva, Chapter 157).
century onwards. Tulu is in use in places between the DRDHARATHA One
of the kings, who should be
II.
rivers Candragiri in the south of Southern Canara and remembered both at dawn and
before sun-set. (Ami-
Kalyanapuri. Only a few ancient songs could be includ- asana Parva, Chapter 165, Verse 52).
s'
group. By examining the inter-relations of the various DRDHASYU. A son born to Agastya maharsi by
Lopa-
and mudra. He was born only after remaining in the
languages in the Dravidian group, noting
how close or distant the relation is, we can ascertain mother's womb for seven years. He was a
very great
which languages separated themselves first from the scholar and tapasvi. He began studying the Vedas
Dravida language. from the very time of his birth. He is called Idhma-
original
vaha also. (See Idhmavaha).
DRAVI1VASA. A Pracetas.(One of the ten sons of the
DRDHAVARMA I. See Drdha I.
Pracina Barhis) .
(Bhagavata, Skandha 4) .
DRDHAVARMA. A
King. Kadallgarbha was the
II.
DRAVIRATHA. A King of the family of Ahga. He was name of his wife. (See under Kadallgarbha).
the son of Dadhivahana and the father of Dharmaratha DRDHAVYA. A maharsi. He was one of the seven
(Agni Purana, Chapter 277). Rtviks of Dharamaraja. Unmucu, Pramucu,
Atreya,
DRAVYASUDDHI. Purifying impure things, The Drdhavya, Urdhvabahu, Trnasoma and Aiigiras were
mode of purification of impure things, in ancient the seven Rtviks. (Anu.-. asana Parva, Chapter 150
India, was known as dravyasuddhi. The procedure of Verse 34).
purification was as follows :
DRDHAVRATA. A brahmarsi who lived in South
If earthern-wares became impure by coming into con- India. (Santi Parva, Chapter 208, Verse 28).
tact with urine or excreta, they should be burnt in fire.
Golden or copper be remoulded or filled
DRDHAYU I. Son born to King Pururavas by Urvaii.
vessels may (Adi Parva, Chapter 75. Verse 25).
with or dipped in tamarind water. Things made of
iron or bronze may be washed in ash-water. Things
DRDHAYU II. A King who North India dur-
lived in
made of glass or pearl need only be washed in pure ing the time of the great war. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter
water. Things born in water such as lotus etc. could 4, Verse 23) .
be purified by dipping them in water. If cloth is made DRDHAYU III. A brahmarsi of South India. He is
large quantity of cloth, a mixture of soil and water may Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 40) .
be sprinkled on it. Wooden things will become pure DRDHAYUDHA. (CITRAYUDHA). One of the 100
by planing.- Cot, chair, fan, cart etc. need only be sons of Dhrtarastra killed in the great war. (Drona
washed. Pots used for cooking meat may be touched Parva, Chapter 136, Verse 20).
DRDHEYU 248 DRONA I
DRDHEYU. A maharsi who lived in the western part welland said "Your kingly qualities are very poor.
:
of India. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 150, Verse 36) . Your education in using weapons is not complete. If
DRDHESTADHl. A King in ancient India. (Adi you give me a meal I will get both the ring and the
Parva, Chapter 1,Verse 238). ball together" The boys agreed to the conditions.
DRONA I. The teacher in archery of the Pandavas and Drona took a grass and evoked arrow into it by mantra
the Kauravas. (spell) and shot it at the 'Kara'. The next grass was
1) Birth. Drona was the son of Bharadvaja who had his shot at the first grass. It struck the first grass. Thus he
hermitage erected on the bank of the Ganges. Once shot grasses one after another till the grass reached the
Bharadvaja went to bathe in the river. When he got brink of the well and by pulling the grass he took the ball
into the river he saw the celestial maid Ghrtaci. The cele- out. In the same way he took the ring also out of the
stial maid ran away as soon as she saw the hermit. But well. When they got the 'Kara' the boys stood round
her cloth was caught in grass and slipped off her body. Drona and asked him what he would like as the reward
When the hermit saw the complete form of her body '
for his deed. Drona said that they need only tell Bhlsma
which was bright and beautiful, he had seminal discharge. how a short man of dark complexion took the ball out of
The discharged semen was kept in a Drona (trough). the well. Accordingly the boys went to Bhlsma and
A child was born from that and he was named told him everything. Immediately Bhlsma understood
Drona, who was brought up in the hermitage. (M. B. that it was Drona. Bhlsma thought that Drona was the
Adi Parva, Chapter 13). best person to teach the princes. So Drona was brought to
2) Education and Marriage. Drona learned the art of the palace and was engaged as the teacher in archery.
using weapons from his father and the hermit AgniveSa. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapters 130 and 131).
Drupada the prince of Pancala was the fellow student 4 ) Education in Archery of the Kauravas and reward.
of Drona. They became great friends. On completion (a) First vow. Drona asked the Pandavas and the Kau-
of education Drupada returned to Pancala. Drona ravas to sit together and then told them. "There is one
married Krpi the daughter of Saradvan. A son was born thing that you should do for me when your education
to them. At his birth the child neighed like the horse is over". Hearing they all kept silent. But Arjuna
this
Uccaihsravas ; so his parents named him Asvatthama. came forward and took the vow that he would achieve
Hearing that Paras urama was giving Brahmanas free that task according to the wish of the teacher.
gift
of wealth and property, Drona reached there. (b) The disciple who is second to none. The training in
Drona's desire was to get Dhanurveda (the art of weapons commenced. Hearing of the fame of Drona,
archery) Drona with his disciples went to Mahendra-
.
disciples came from places far and near. Arjuna was
giri and saw Paras urama, who was about to enter forest the first of all the students. Sending all the students to
giving away everything he had. Parasurama said, "I fetch water Drona taught his son Asvatthama certain
have given away to the Brahmanas gold and everything special Arjuna secretly knew this. So he
lessons.
1
time a Brahmana of dark complexion, short and aged, d) Expert disciple. The education in archery and the
came by that way. It was Drona. The boys gathered use of weapons was nearing completion. In archery
round the old man. Drona threw his ring also into the Arjuna was second to none. Duryodhana and Bhlma
i. To take revenge on Drupada was the thought that was uppermost in the mind of Drona.
DRO3VA I 249 DROI^A I
became expert club-men. Asvatthama was the first in the King of Pancala, should be brought before him with
the secrets of archery. Nakula and Sahadeva became his tied. As soon as Duryodhana and Karna heard
hands
expert swordsmen. Arjuna was expert in all branches of this they rapidly marched to Pancala and engaged
weapon-training. BhTma had bodily strength and Arjuna Drupada in a fight but were defeated by Drupada. After
had the strength of learning. Yudhisthira was the fore- that Arjuna entered the battle-field, defeated and tied
most in chariot-fighting. Drupada and brought him before Drona who was kind
e) Artificial bird. Once Drona placed an artificial bird enough not to kill Drupada. The Kingdom of Pancala
on the branch of a without the knowledge of the
tree was divided into two. Drupada was given Uttara-Pan-
princes, to test their practice in archery. Then he cala and Drona took Daksina Pancala. Then Drupada
placed his disciples with their bows, around the tree, was released. (M. B. Adi Parva, Chapter 137).
and told them to shoot the bird down at his command. 6) Arjuna is accorded sanction to fight with his teacher. One
Drona first called Dharmaputra and told him to look year after the revenge on Drupada Yudhisthira was
at the bird. Then he asked him what he saw. Dharma- anointed as heir-apparent, by Dhrtarastra. Once, in
putra said that he saw the bird, the tree, the teacher the council of the king, Drona called Arjuna to him and
and the students. He tested one by one. All gave the said: "Oh, Arjuna !
you must take an oath to do a parti-
same reply, that Dharmaputra gave. At last he asked cular thing in the presence of your relatives. If it happens
Arjuna. Arjuna stood for a while, taking aim and said that I oppose you in battle you should fight against me
that he saw a bird only. The teacher commanded to without thinking that I am your teacher. This oath is
shoot and Arjuna sent an arrow. At the first shot the bird your gift to your teacher." Arjuna agreed and took the
fell down headless. With this test Drona understood that oath in the presence of the people. Because there was such
Arjuna could defeat Drupada and embraced his an oathArjuna's conscience did not prick him when he
disciple. had to fight against his teacher Drona in the battle of
f) Drona caught by a crocodile. Once Drona and his Bharata between the Pandavas and Kauravas. (M. B.
'
disciples went to bathe in the Ganges. While they were Adi Parva, Chapter 139).'
dipping and splashing in the water a crocodile caught 7 ) Part played by Drona up of Bharata.
to the battle
Drona by the leg. Drona was unable to extricate (1) Duryodhana and party came to know only at
his
himself from the grip of the crocodile. So he asked his the time of the svayarhvara (marriage) of Pancall that
disciples to shoot the crocodile and kill it. All stood the Pandavas were not killed in the lac house
burning.
agape. Arjuna at once took bow and arrows and sent When Arjuna won the test and got Pancali, the Kaura-
five arrows one after another at the crocodile, which vas became furious and began to plot against the
died instantly and came afloat. The teacher, who Pandavas. At that time Drona came to the council-hall
was much pleased, got out of the water and embraced of the Kauravas and said that the Kauravas should go
Arjuna and taught him 'Brahma Sirastra', a divine to Pancala and greet the Pandavas, bring them back
weapon. After imparting this knowledge Drona told and give them half of the kingdom. (M.B. Adi Parva,
Arjuna not to operate this weapon on man. But if an Chapter 203).
enemy superior to man attacked him, then only, he (2) Drona was present at the sacrifice of Rajasuya
should send this missile at him to kill him. (imperial consecration) performed by Yudhisthira.
Giving due respect to the advice of the teacher, Arjuna (M. B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 34, Stanza 8).
received the Brahmas irastra. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chap- (3) When the game of dice was going on between
ter 133). Sakuni and Yudhisthira Drona came with Dhrtarastra
g) Demonstration by the pupils. When the training of the prin- to the place to witness the game. ( M. B. Sabha Parva,
ces terminated, Dhrtarastra accorded sanction to hold a Chapter 60, Stanza 2).
demonstration of weapon-play, by the princes. An (4) Drona declared that the game of dice between
arena was got ready. Drona entered the arena. As a Sakuni and Yudhisthira was not fair (M. B. Vana
preliminary rite Drona worshipped the gods. Then he Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 2) .
invited Brahmanas to bless his pupils. After that the (5) Drona was well-versed in archery. (M. B. Vana
pupils gave the teacher, gold, precious stones, cloths, Parva, Chapter 37, Stanza 4).
and other costly things. The princes paid homage to (6) While the Pandavas were living in the country of
to their teacher. The teacher gave his blessings to Virata, Arjuna in the guise of Brhannala, fought with the
them. With this the demonstration commenced. Kauravas. Drona was the first to recognize Brhannala
Clubbing between Duryodhana and Bhlma was a as Arjuna at the sound of his conch. (M. B. Virata
terrible one. But the mock fighting changed to a seri- Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 24).
ous fight. Drona sent Asvatthama who separated them. (7) In that fight Drona fought with Arjuna whose
The audience applauded their performance. The per- arrows wounded Drona and he ran away from the
formance of Arjuna was of the most superior type and battlefield. ( M. B. Virata Parva, Chapter 58) .
the audience and the teacher were struck with wonder (8) When SrT Krsna came to the council-hall of the
at his extraordinary capability. Kama also showed Kauravas to plead for a treaty on behalf of the Pandavas
his performance. (For details see under Arjuna, Para 1 who had returned after forest life and pseudonymity,
and Karna, Para 4). (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapters 133 Drona took the side of the Pandavas and argued with
and 134). Duryodhana. (M. B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 126).
5) Revenge upon Drupada. When demonstration came to (9) Drona advised Dhrtarastra to see that a battle
an end it was the time for giving the teacher the gift between the Kauravas and the Pandavas was avoided.
due to him. The teacher had, at the beginning, told (M. B. Udyoga Parva, two Chapters from 138).
his pupils that on completion of the training they should .(10) When it was almost decided that the battle was
give him a gift. Accordingly he demanded that Drupada, ^evitable Drona boasted to Duryodhana that he would
DRO^A I 250 DRONA I
annihilate the army of the Pandavas within a month. (13) Drona advised Duryodhana to try to get Arjuna
(M. B.Udyoga Parva, Chapter 'l93, Stanza 18). away from the battlefield. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chap-
8) Why Drona, whose leaning was towards the Pandavas, ter 17, Stanza 3).
took the side of the Kauravas
in the battle of Bhdrata. At (14) He killed Baka. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 21,
heart Drona was on
the side of the Pandavas. But he Stanza 16) .
fought against them, taking the side of the Kauravas. (15) He killed Satyaki. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
Even at that time he ardently wished the Pandavas to 21, Stanza 21).
win the battle. What is the reason for it ? An answer to (16) He killed Satanika. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
this question is found in Mahabharata, Bhisma Parva, 21 Stanza 28).
Chapter 43. (17) Drdhasena was killed by Drona. (M.B. Drona
The battle was about to begin. Dharmaputra went to Parva, Chapter 21, Stanza 52).
Drona and bowed before him and requested to bless (18) Drona killed Ksema. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chap-
him so that he might win the battle against the Kaura- ter 21, Stanza 53).
vas. Drona said, "It is good on your part to have (19) He killed Vasudana and Ksatradeva. (M.B.
come and seen me before the battle is begun. If you Drona Parva, Chapter 21, Stanzas 55, 56).
had not seen me I would have cursed you to lose the (20) He fought again with Dhrstadyumna. (M.B.
battle. But today I am honoured since you have come. Drona Parva, Chapter 31, Stanza 8) .
You fight the battle. Victory is yours. But I have to (21) He annihilated the army of the Pandavas. (M.B.
stand with the Kauravas, and there is a reason for it. Drona Parva, Chapter 32, Stanza 42).
Man is a slave of money and money is not the slave (22) He made a Cakravyuha. (Strategical formation of
of Man. The Kauravas have tied me with money'. Sri the army in the shape of a wheel) (
M.B. Drona .
Krsna will be on the side of the righteous. Where Sri Parva, Chapter 34, Stanza 13).
Krsna is, there will be victory. But so long as I fight (23) He broke the sword of Abhimanyu (M.B. Drona
it is difficult for you to win. So try to kill me at the Parva, Chapter 48, Stanza 37) .
beginning of the battle. You need not feel sorry for (24) By forming cakrasakatavyuha he saved Jayadra-
killing your teacher. Because when I shower arrows tha. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 87, Stanza 22).
and fight vehemently I won't look to see which enemy (25) He fought with Arjuna again. (M.B. Drona
has struck me down. Enemies could kill me only when Parva, Chapter 91, Stanza 11).
I am lying on darbha grass leaving fighting in dis- (26) He put the divine armour on Duryodhana. (M.B,
appointment, will put down my weapons in battle
i Drona Parva, Chapter 94, Stanza 39) .
only when I hear words which I dislike to hear." (27) A fierce fight ensued between Drona and Dhrsta-
After having revealed these secrets of his own he sent dyumna. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapters 95 to 97).
Yudhisthira back. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 43). (28) He wounded Satyaki. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chap-
9) Drona in the battle of Bhdrata. (1) On the first day ter 11).
of the battle Drona fought in a combat with Dhrsta- (29) Satyaki defeated Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva,
dyumna, who was defeated. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 117, Stanza 30).
Chapter 77, Stanza 69). (30) Drona scolded Dusiasana who ran away defeated
(2) Drona killed Sarikha the son of King Virata. (M.B. by Satyaki. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 122).
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 82, Stanza 23). (31) He killed Viraketu. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
(3) Drona became unconscious by the clubbing of 122, Stanza 41).
Bhimasena. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 94, Stanza
(32) He killed Citraketu, Sudhanva, Citravarma and
19). Citraratha. Drona
Drona fought with Arjuna. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, (M.B. Parva, Chapter 122,
(4) stanza 43).
Chapter'l02, Stanza 6). He
Drona defeated Drupada. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, (33) fell unconscious, hit by Dhrstadyumna. (M.B.
(5)
Drona Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 56).
Chapter'l04, Stanza 24).
(6) There was a fight between Drona and Yudhisthira (34) He defeated Dhrstadyumna. (M.B. Drona Parva,
(M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 110, Stanza 17). Chapter 122, Stanza '71).
(7) Drona combated with Dhrstadyumna. (M.B. (35) He killed Brhatksatra. (M.B. Drona Parva,
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 116, Stanza 45). Chapter 125, Stanza 22).
He became the commander-in-general after the
(36) He killed Dhrstaketu for
(8) his son. (M.B. Drona
fall of Bhisma. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 7, Stanza Parva, Chapter 125, Stanza 39).
5).
(37) Sahadeva, the son of Jarasandha, was killed by
(9) He
gave Duryodhana a boon to catch Yudhisthira Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 125, Stanza 45).
alive. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 12, Stanza 20).
38) He killed Ksatradharma the son of Dhrstadyumna.
(10) He killed (M.B. Drona Parva, (
Yugandhara
Chapter 16, Stanza 31). (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 125, Stanza 66).
(11) Vyaghradatta and Sirhhasena were killed by (39) Bhimasena defeated Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva
Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter, 16, Stanza 37). Chapter 127, Stanza 53).
(12) In the fight which followed Arjuna and his army (40) Bhimasena threw away the chariot^with Drona in
were driven back by Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva, it eight times. (M.B. Drona Parva," Chapter 128,
Chapter 16, Stanza 50) . Stanza 13).
i. "Man is slave to wealth, wealth is slave to none. This is true oh King. The Kauravas have bound me with wealth. I am
telling you this without shame. You only require battle. I will fight for the Kauravas and wish for your victory,"
DRONA II 251 DRUPADA
(41 ) Droua killed the King of Hehaya, all the sons of bathing in the river is as efficacious as performing the
Dhrstadyumna, and the King Sibi. (M.B. Drona Agnistoma Yajna. (Vana Parva, Chapter 88) .
Parva, Chapter 155, Stanza 14). DRSTAKETU. A danava. (Adi Parva, Chapter 67,
(42) He became unconscious in the fight with Yudhi- Verse 8).
sthira. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 162, Stanza 49) . DRUPADA. (Saumaki, Yajnasena). Father of PaficaH.
1
Sarhyati) .
with such people especially the poor. A Brahmin
DRSADVATI. A river to the south of Kuruksetra. learned in Vedas won't befriend a Brahmin who is not
During their exile in the forest the Pandavas drank learned in Vedas, a man
seated in a chariot cannot
water from it. (Vana Parva, Chapter 5, Verse 2). It befriend a man who not seated in a chariot and a
is
was on the delta of this river that Siva imparted advice King cannot befriend one who is not a King. So a
to Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva,
Chapter 78, Verse 15). friendship of bygone days is no friendship at all".
Living on the northern bank of this river is equal to Drupada's reproaches aroused a storm of anger in
living in Svarga. (Vana Parva, Chapter 88). To per- Drona. He vowed that he would avenge the insult.
form bali and other rites for the souls of the dead after With his wife and child he got out of the palace. He
iMahab harata, Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 68 states
.
that the original name of Drupada was Yajnasena. Mahabharata,
Adi Parva, Chapter 120. Stanza 41, states that Drupada was the son of Prsata. But according to other puranas Prsata was the
father of Drupada's great grandfather. In Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 131, Stanza 6, Drupada is addressed as 'Saumaki;
the son of Somaka.
DRUPADA 252 DRUMASENA I
wandered about in search of disciples who were capable The Pandavas came to the svayarhvara and Drupada
of confronting with Drupada. At last he came to found out Arjuna. But Drupada did not like the idea
Hastinapura and became the teacher of the Pandavas of his daughter becoming the wife of more than one
and the Kauravas. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 130). husband. Then Vyasa appeared there and informed
4) The revenge of Drona. Drona told Bhisma about his Drupada of the previous births of the Pandavas and
dealings with Drupada. Bhisma consoled Drona. Before Paficali. Drupada was much pleased and he
gave the
the commencement of the training in archery, Drona Pandavas a good deal of wealth and sent Paficali with
told his disciples : "When
your training in archery is them. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 196) .
ing commenced. The Andhakas, Vrsnis and others ( 2) Drupada gave the Pandavas an aksauhim, ( division
joined his school of archery. 21870 elephants, 21870 chariots, 65610 horses, 109350
The training in archery came to an end. Drona called footmen) of army for the battle of Bharata. (M.B.
his disciples and told them that Drupada should be Udyoga Parva, Chapter 57).
tied with a rope and placed before him. When they (3) At the battle of Bharata, Drupada was anointed as
heard the words of the teacher, Duryodhana, Karna, Yu- one of the seven commanders on the side of the
yutsu, Dussasana,Vikarna, Jarasandha and Sulocana led Pandavas. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 157, Stanza
the Kauravas to Paftcala. Arjuna knew that the 11)'-'
Kauravas would not be able to defeat Drupada. He (4) Drupada fought with Jayadratha on the first day
told the teacher that when the Kauravas returned of the battle of Kuruksetra. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chap-
without achieving the task, he himself would go and ter 45, Stanza 55).
bring Drupada. After a terrible battle the Kauravas ( 5) Drupada was defeated in a combat with Drona the
were defeated by the Pa.nca.las. After that Arjuna con- teacher. (M.B.Bhisma Parva, Chapter 7, Stanza 48) .
fronted Drupada. Nakula and Sahadeva stood as (6) Drupada combated with Asvatthama. (M.B.
guards of the wheels. Bhimasena with his club stood Bhisma Parva, Chapter 110, Stanza 16).
in front of the army. Arjuna drove the chariot right (7) He fought with Bhagadatta. (M.B. Drona Parva,
in the midst of the Paficalaarmy. Bhima took his club Chapter 14, Stanza 40) .
The teacher looked at Drupada and reproached him (9) He was defeated by Prsata. (M.B. Drona Parva,
with scornful word: "I have destroyed your country. Chapter 138, Stanza 24).
Now you are at my mercy. Is not the former friendship (10) Drona the teacher killed Drupada. (M.B. Drona
a friendship?" Drupada requested that they should be Parva, Chapter 186, Stanza 43).
friends in future. Accordingly Drupada was set free. (11) The Pandavas gave offerings to the manes for
The country of Paficala was divided into two, and Drupada. (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 42, Stanza 5).
giving Uttara Pancala to Drupada, Drona took Daksina (12) Vyasa evoked the spirits of the dead to the surface
Pancala. Thus because of the revenge of Drona, Dru- of the Ganges, after the Battle of Bharata came to an
pada lost half of his kingdom. (M.B. Adi Parva, end. Drupada also was there among the spirits which
Chapter 137). appeared on the Ganges. (M.B. Asramavasika Parva,
5 ) Birth of Children. Though Drona and Drupada Chapter 32, Stanza 8) .
were on friendly terms Drupada did not forget the (13) After death Drupada entered heaven and was
defeat he had incurred at the hands of Drona. So, absorbed in Visvadevas. (M.B. Svargarohana Parva,
Drupada desired to have a son who would become Chapter 5, Stanza 15) .
up. (M.B. Adi parva, Chapter 167). and sings. He was the teacher of Rukmin, the son of
6) The marriage of Pancali. Pa.fi call grew up. Drupada Bhismaka and he gave a bow to his pupil Rukmin.
desired to give her in marriage to Arjuna. But at that (Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 158.)
time the lac-house caught fire and the Pandavas disap- DRUMASENA I. A Ksatriya King. He was born from
peared. Drupada set certain tests in the Svayarhvara a portion of an Asura called Garvistha. (M.B. Adi
of Pancali with a view to ascertain if Arjuna was alive. Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 55). He stood as guard of
DRUMASENA II 253 DUNDUBHI I
the wheel of Salya and was killed by Yudhisthira in the ed into a frog. Then Siva blessed her that she would
battle of Bharata. (M.B.Salya Parva,
Chapter 12, Stanza regain her former self after twelve years and have a
53.) heroic husband. Madhura who was thus turned into a
DRUMASENA II. A
warrior who fought on the side of frog fell into a well close to where Maya was engaged
the Kauravas against the Pandavas. He was killed in tapas. And, after twelve years, the frog regained its
by
Dhrstadyumna the son of Drupada. (M.B. Drona former form and became Madhura again. Maya, who
Parva, Chapter 1
70, Stanza 22 )
. saw her adopted her as daughter and brought her up as
DRUHYU I. A son of King Yayati. Two sons, Yadu such calling her Mandodari. Mandodari became Rav-
and Turvasu were born to Yayati, the son of Nahusa, ana' wife and thus Dundubhi became the brother-in-law
by his wife Devayam and three sons Druhyu, Anudru- of Ravana.
hyu and Puru by his wife Sarmistha. Druhyu was cursed 3) Dundubhi grew up. The following is told about Dun-
by his father because he did not comply with the re- dubhi in Canto 11, Kiskindha Kanda of Valmiki Rama-
quest of his father to exchange his old age with the yana.
youth of his son. The curse was that his desires As beautiful and majestic as the peak of Mount Kailasa,
would not be realized, that he would stay in places the heroic Dundubhi possessed the form of the buffalo.
where he would not like to stay, that his kingdom would And, he had the strength of a thousand elephants.
be lost and that he would be called Bhoja. (See under Proud and haughty over his own prowess and losing his
Yayati) . head over the boon he had received from God, Dundu-
DRUHYU II. A son of Matinara, a King of the Puru bhi went to fight with the ocean, the lord of rivers. (It
dynasty. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Stanza 14). was Siva who gave him boons. See M.B. Anusasana
DUHKHA(M). Agni Purana tells the following about Parva, Chapter 11).
the origin of Duhkham. 4) Fight with Bali and death. Haughty almost to mad-
Hiriisa (violence) is the wife of Adharma (unrighteous- ness over the unrivalled strength and prowess he got as
ness) To the couple were born two daughters called
. the result of the boon, Dundubhi went about challeng-
Anrta (falsehood) and Nikrta (fraud) and from them ing whomsoever he met for a fight. But none dared to
were born the daughters Bhaya (fear) Naraka (hell) accept the challenge. Then he went to the sea-shore
Maya (illusion) and Vedana (pain). Maya brought and challenged Varuna, who, appearing on the crest
forth Mrtyu (death) the annihilator of all living
, of the waves said: "I am not strong and powerful
objects, and Vedana, from Raurava (a particular hell) enough to fight with you. Only Himavan can do that.
brought forth Duhkha (sorrow, grief) From Mrtyu .
So, please go north."
were born Jati ( caste ),Jara (wrinkles), Soka (sorrow), Accordingly Dundubhi went north to Himavan and
Trsna (covetouseness) and Krodha (anger). (Agni Pu- challenged him in great rage. Himavan clad in his neat
rana, Chapter 19). and white apparel appeared and spoke in humble tones :
DULIDUHA. A King in ancient India. (Adi Parva, "Oh mighty Dana va I am not accustomed to fighting
:
the deva -women. When the dance was over Maya told a King of the monkeys. Why should you, who are so
Hema about his love for her. Hema too had fallen in very strong smash my tower?" but, these soft words of
love with Maya. And they left the place in secret and Bali only kindled Dundubhi's anger all the more and his
reached the southern slope of the Himalayas where they challenges became the fiercer. Then did Bali, wearing
built a beautiful city called Hemapura and they lived the golden chain given by Indra, rush forth to engage
there. Ere long they had two sons, Dundubhi and Dundubhi in mortal duel in which the former began
Mayavi, both of them equally distinguished in prowess. gaining more and more strength while the latter got wea-
Uttarara.ma.yana) . ker and weaker. Dundubhi took to flight in the skies to
2) Dundubhi's relati nship with Rdvana. Maya did tapas save his life. But, the moon dawned then and in the
for a daughter in the western plains of Mount Kailasa. moonlight Bali and his brother Sugrlva followed Dun-
One of those days Parvati went out of Kailasa to feed dubhi, who entered a terrible cave covered by something
brahmins in celebration of the birthday of Subrah- like a forest of grass. After stationing Sugrlva at the
manya. In the absence of Parvati a deva woman called opening of the cave Bali followed Dundubhi into the
Madhura who had observed the Somavaravrata came cave. Sugrlva waited there one year for the return of
to Kailasa to salute Mahadeva (Siva) who enjoyed her Bali from the cave when one day he witnessed foaming
for some time. On her return to Siva Parvati noticed blood flow out of the mouth of the cave, and mistakenly
ashes worn by him transferred to the breasts of believing that Bali was dead he closed the mouth of the
Madhura. Drawing the natural inference from this cave with a huge stone and returned home. But, Bali,
Parvati got angry and cursed Madhura to be transform- who had by then killed Dundubhi kicked off the stone
DUNDUBHI II 254 DURGAMA
and came out of the cave and followed Sugrlva in a aspects and moods assumes the forms of Kanyii,
rage. From that day onwards Sugrlva lived at the Rsya- Kamaksi and Mukamba. In Kerala the Devi is called
muka mountain where Bali had no admission. (Valmlki Bhagavati also, in Andhra Jokulambika and in Tamil-
Ramayana, Kiskindha Kanda, Cantos 9, 11, 46). nadu Kannakl. Worship of the Devi is supposed to be
5) Curse on Bali due to the blood of Dundubln. During more than 4000 years old in India. In religious litera-
Bali's duel with Dundubhi blood from the body of the ture from Vedic times up to date Devi occupies an
latter spurted out to the skies, and it also fell in the important place. In modern India Sri Ramakrsna
hermitage of Aiatanga at Rsyamuka where the sage Paramahaihsa, guru of Svaml Vivekananda, was a great
Matariga was performing tapas. Angered at this the sage devotee of Durga.
cursed him whoever he might be, who was responsible In the Mahabharata there are various references to the
for blood falling in his airama, with death by his head Devi. When the Pandavas entered the capital of Virata
getting broken if he mounted Rsyamuka. Sugrlva took for their life incognito they worshiped Durga, who
shelter there because of this curse on Bali. (Valmlki appeared them and granted them certain boons.
to
Ramayana, Kiskindha Kanda, Canto II) (Virata Parva, Chapter 6). At the commencement of
DUNDUBHI II.' See under Manthara. the great war Arjuna, at the instance of Krsna prayed
DUNDUBHINIHRADA. A powerful Raksasa, who was to Durga, who appeared in the sky and granted him
the son of Dili and the uncle of Prahlada. When, in boons, for victory in War. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 23).
the fierce fight between the devas and the asuras the See Pancadevis and Prakrti).
latter got absolutely defeated this Raksasa ascribed DURGA II. A river famous in ancient India. The
the reson for the failure to the brahmins and began Pandavas drank water from this river. (Bhisma Parva.
killing them. He captured the Kas I temple and many Chapter 9, Verse 33) .
other temples like it. In the circumstances Siva gave DURGA (M) Fort. There are six kinds of forts, viz.
.
refuge to the brahmins of Kasi, and the Raksasa was Marudurgam, Jaladurgam, Prthvldurgam Vanadurgam,
destroyed by Sivasakti. (Sivarudrasarhhita, Yuddha Parvatadurgam, and Manusy adurgam. Among the
Kanda, Chapter 58). above six Manusya durga is the most important (M.B.
DUNDUBHISVANA(M). A particular Place in Kusa Santi Parva, Chapter 56, 35).
island. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 13). DURGAJAM. A city in ancient India. (Bhisma Parva,
DURADHA (DURADHARA, DURDHARA). One of Chapter 9, Verse 52) .
thehundred sons of Dhrtaras{ra. He was killed by DURGAMA. An asura chief born in the dynasty of
Bhlma. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 135, Verse 36). Hiranyaksa and son of Taru, Durgama was an enemy
DURADHARA. See under Duradha. of the Devas from his very birth. He argued to him-
DURASADA. A son of Bhasmasura. He learned Pancak- self thus: "the very strength and power of the
sari vidya from Siva and used to repeat it. Pleased at Devas depend on the Vedas; if there is no Veda there is
this Siva gave him all the boons he wanted with the no yajna, if there is no yajfia the Devas do not get
result that he lost his head and began troubling every- their share of the havis, if they do not get the havis
body. When thus unrest and injustices increased in the they will lose all their strength and prowess, and, there-
world Dhurhdhi, the son of Sakti killed him. (Ganesa fore, the best means to teach the Devas a lesson is to
Purana, Chapter 38, 42). destroy the Vedas." Durgama decided that the surest
DURDAMA. Son of a Gandharva called Visvavasu. means to achieve that was to perform penance. Accor-
The following story about him is told in the Skanda dingly he went to the Himalayas and began doing
Purana. Chapters 1, 3 and 4) .
penance abstaining from food and drink. After a thou-
While maharsis like Vasisjha and Atri were once sand years Brahma appeared to him and asked him
engaged in the worship of Lord Siva at Mount Kailasa, what boon he wanted. Durgama said "I must get the
Durdama, with his thousands of wives came there. In Vedas; I should get all the mantras known to brahmins
the Halasyatirtha near-by they got engaged in water and Devas in the threeand all the presiding
worlds,
sports with their bodies stark naked. On seeing their deities of those mantras should come and stand before
naked sports Vasistha cursed Durdama to be turned me and be subject to my control; I must also get the
into a Raksasa. When his wives begged of Vasistha for strength defeat all the Devas."
to Brahma granted
redemption from the curse he told them that seven- Durgama the boons. And, thenceforth the brahmins
all
teen years thence Durdama would regain his old form. could not recollect the Vedas or the mantras. No
Durdama thus turned Raksasa tried once to devour bathing, no homas, no daily rites, no rites for the dead,
sage Galava when the Sudarsana Cakra of Visnu killed no yajnas, no japa (repeating divine names) and no
him. He regained his old form and returned to tapas. Symptoms of old age caught the Devas in its
Gandharvaloka .
grips. Durgama drove them out of Devaloka and they
DURDHARSANA. (Durmada). One of the hundred hid in mountain caves. Within a hundred years the
sons of Dhrtarastra. He was killed by Bhlma. (Drona world reached the rock bottom of destruction. Water
Parva, Chapter 155, Verse 40) .
disappeared from the world. Alarmed beyond measure
DURGA I. The goddess of the universe, Durga at these developments the brahmins went to the Himal-
possesses different forms and aspects. Parvatl, spouse of ayas and prayed to Jagadarnbika (mother of the uni-
Siva is a form of Durga. According to the prayer of verse). Ambika appeared to them, and their lamenta-
devotees this Devi assumes diverse forms. She is tions brought tears to the eyes of Ambika, and thus
worshipped in 64 forms as Aryadurga, Vedagarbha, water scarcity came to an end. Ambika gave them Saka
Ambika, Bhadrakall, Bhadra, Ksemaksemakarl, Naika- (a vegetable) fruits and roots to eat. Because she pro-
bahu, Devi etc. In south India she is worshipped more tected her devotees by supplying Saka to them she
in her fierce and terrible forms. Devi in her gentle came to be known as Sakambharl, thenceforward. Also
DURGAPUJA 255 DURMUKHA II
because she shed tears from her eyes, thenceforth she redemption from the curse and the latter said thus :
came to be addressed as Sataksl also. "This Durmada will be born as son of Unmada, and
Being told about the above developments Durgama, on seeing her son and husband die, she will end her
with his army attacked Devi. The fight became fierce life by burning herself, and her soul will attain Svarga".
and furious. From Devi's body emerged numerous As a result of the above curse Unmada was born as
Saktis fully armed. Dharinl, Bala, Tripura, Bhairavi the daughter of the King of Videha and Durmada as
and Kali with 10,000 hands were some of the promi- the son of the Raksasa called Dlrghajamgha. As Raksasa,
nent and powerful Saktis which thus emerged. The Durmada was called Pirigalaksa. The King of Videha
army of Durgama was annihilated. Then the fight named Unmada as Harinl.
commenced directly between Devi and Durgama. While Harinl was once walking in the garden with her
Fifteen arrows of Devi hit the asura at the very same companions Pihgalaksa abducted her and flew off in
time and he was killed. (Devi Bhagavata, Saptama the sky, and put her in a great forest. A
prince called
Skandha). Vasumanas, who happened to come that way on his
DURGAPUJA. See under Navaratri. fast-riding horse Jimuta heard the lamentations of
DURGASAILA. A mountain in Saka island. (M.B. Harinl, and after killing Piiigalaksa he took her with
Bhisma 'Parva, Chapter Verse 23). 11, him to her palace. The King of Videha and his sub-
DURITAKSAYA. A son of King Mahavlrya. Durita- jects, who were in great anxiety and distress at the
ksaya had three sons, Traiyyaruni, Kavi and Puskara- disappearance of Harinl felt really happy to have her
runi. (Bhagavata, Skandha 9, Verse 19 and 21). back. And, all of- them opined that Harinl should be
DURJAYA I. An absolutely cruel King. Owing to the married to Vasumanas. Accordingly the date for her
number of adharmas (evil actions he had committed) Svayamvara was announced. But, on the day of the
Kala ordained him to be born and reborn twentyone svayamvara Bhadrasrenya, King of Hehaya who, along
times as animals and as a Brahmaraksasa he
various with other Kings was also present on the occasion,
roamed about forests. One of those days he caught forcibly took Harinl and rode off with her. According
hold of a Sivayogi called Mahadeva whose body was to the condition laid down by UrvasI for redemption
smeared with Vibhuti (the sacred ash), but as soon as from her curse Durmada was born as son of Harinl and
the Vibhuti from the body of the SivayogI got smeared he was named Durmada.
on his body also, Durjaya got back his former form Bhadrasrenya, Harinl and Durmada lived very happily
and he was lifted upto Svarga. ( Siva Purana, Bhasma in the Hehaya palace. When Durmada came of age he
Mahatmya) . married Citrarigl, his uncle's daughter on the advice
DURJAYA II. A danava born to Kasyapa prajapati by of sage Garga. Soon war broke out between Bhadra-
Danu, his wife. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 65. Srenya, and Divodasa, King of Kasi in which Bhadra-
Verse 23) .
Srenya was killed. Harinl courted death by fire,
DURJAYA III. (Dusparajaya) One of the hundred
.
regained her former life and under the name Unmada
sons of Dhrtarastra (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 116, returned to the world of the Apsaras.
Verse 9). DURMADA III. Son of Asura Maya. Conceited and
DURJAYA IV. A King. Drupada advised the Pandavas haughty over his strength Durmada once challenged
to invite this King to the great war. (M.B. Udyoga Bali to fight, and defeated by Bali he ran away from
Parva, Chapter 4, Verse, 16). battlefield and hid in a cave. (Ananda Ramayana
DURJAYA V. Son of King Suvira of the Iksvaku Sarakanda ) .
dynasty. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 2, Ver^e 11). DURMARSA. An asura, he clashed with the Devas at the
DURJAYA VI. A synonym of Mahavisnu. (Anusasana churning of the sea- of milk. (Bhagavata dasama-
Parva, Chapter 144, Verse 86). skandha ) .
DURJAYA VII. A powerful son of Supratlka. While he DURMARSAftTA I. One of the 100 sons of Dhrtarastra.
was living as the lord over the country, having In the great war Arjuna destroyed his Gajasena and
conquered the various Kingdoms he was told that Satyaki wounded him. Finally he was killed by Bhlma.
Gauramukha Muni had in his possession the famous After the war was over Nakula occupied his palace.
gem called Cintamani. He fought to gain that gem (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 113, Drona Parva,
and died. The place where he met with death came to 88, 89, 116'and 135).
be known as Naimisaranya in after years. (Varaha DURMARSA1VA II.A son born to Srnjaya by Rastra-
Purana, Chapter 1 7) .
palT. He was a relation of Vasudeva. (Bhagavata
DURJAYA. Short form of Durjaymanimatinagara referred navamaskandha ) .
to in lauHatory terms in the Mahabharata. Some DURMUKHA I. A minister of Mahisasura. Once he was
scholars hold that Durjaya is the Ellora caves of modern sent to Bhadrakall with a message by his master.
(Devi
India, seven miles off Daulatabad. (Vana Parva, Bhagavata, Pancama Skandha).
Chapter 96, Verse 1). DURMUKHA II. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtara-
DURMADA I. See Durdharsana. stra. The following information about him is gathered
DURMADA II. A son of Harhsa, the Gandharva King. from the Mahabharata.
Himself and Unmada, the apsara woman impersonated 1 ) He was present at the Svayamvara of Draupadl.
(
themselves and cheated Pururavas and UrvasI (See (Adi Parva, Chapter 185, Verse 1).
Unmada). Enraged at the deception UrvasI cursed (2) During the procession
to Dvaitavana, Gandharvas
that Durmada be born as a Raksasa and Unmada a took him captive. (Vana Parva, Chapter 242, Verse
princess. Also, Unmada as princess would have to marry 12).
not the person she really loved but some one else. (3) In the great war he fought with Sahadeva. (Bhisma
Both Durmada and Unmada then begged UrvasI for Parva, Chapter 85, Verse 25) .
DURMUKHA III 256 DURVASAS
(4) He killed Arjuna's charioteer. (Bhisma Parva, 2) Birth. Three different stories are told in the
Chapter 47, Verse 12). Puranas relating to his birth.
(5) He defeated Srutakarman. (Bhisma Parva, Chap- (
1
)
Once a quarrel, arose between Brahma and Siva
ter 79, Verse 35) . which developed into fighting, At the sight of Siva
(6) He was defeated by Abhimanyu. (Bhisma Parva, seething with rage the Devas ran off frightened, and
Chapter 84, Verse 42) . Parvati also got frightened. She told him 'Durvasam
(7) A duel was fought between Durmukha and bhavati me'. (It has become impossible for me to live
Ghatotkaca. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 110, Verse 13). happily with you). Realising that it was his momentary
(8) Duel fought between Durmukha
and Dhrstadyumna; anger which made life miserable for Parvati Siva
(Drona Parva, Chapter 20, Verse 26) . decided to transfer that trait of his character to some-
(9) He fought with Purujit. (Drona Parva, Chapter one else.
106, Verse 13). The incident took place during the life period of
(10) He was defeated who was
in fight with Sahadeva. (Drona SilavatI, very much reputed for her chastity.
Parva, Chapter 107, Verse 25) . While Sllavati was carrying her husband Ugrasravas
(11) Bhimasena killed him in war. (Drona Parva, Chap- (who though a leper yet desired to visit brothels) to
ter 134, Verse 20). the house of a prostitute the muni Anumandavya
(12) After the war his beautiful palace
was occupied cursed Ugrasravas to die before sunrise the next day
by Sahadeva. (Sand Parva, Chapter 44, Verse 12). with his head broken. (See under Anumandavya).
DURMUKHA III. A King who nourished in the assem- SilavatI made the counter curse, let not the sun rise the
bly of Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse next day, to the muni's curse. Accordingly the sun did
21). not rise the next day, and confusion prevailed every-
DURMUKHA IV. A Raksasa, who was a member in where, whereupon the Trimurtis and the Devas, through
Ravana's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter, 9, Verse Anasuya, the wife of Atrimaharsi, got the curse of
13). According to the U ttararamayana
he was the son SilavatI withdrawn. Pleased at this the Trimurtis
of a Raksasa called Malyavan by his wife Sundarl, asked Anasuya to choose any boon she desired, and she
and he had Vajramusti, Virupaksa, Suptaghna, Yajna- prayed that Brahma, Visnu and Mahesvara take their
kosa, Malta and Unmatta as brothers and Nala and partial incarnations through her. Accordingly Brahma
Ketumati as sisters. as Candra and Mahavisnu as Dattatreya were born as
DURMUKHA V. A serpent. It was also present among sons of Anasuya. And, Siva deposited his anger, which
the serpents, which had come to Prabhasaksetra to had caused unhappiness to Parvati, in Anasuya. The
receive Balarama who, after death, went to Patalaloka. child born out of that aspect of Siva to Anasuya was
(Mausala Parva, Chapter, 4, Verse 16) . Durvasas. The name Durvasas was very apt as the
DURMUKHA VI. An asura on the side of Mahisasura. child was born out of the anger of Siva which had
Tamra, finance minister of Mahisasura sent Durmukha made life miserable (durvasa) for Parvati. (Brahmanda
with Baskala to fight against Devi, who killed him. Purana, Chapter 44) .
(Devlbhagavata, Skandhas 5, 13). In his previous (2) Once defeated in his fight with Brahma Siva took
life he was one of the Paulastyas. (Adi Parva, Chapter refuge with the Naranarayanas who were doing penance
61). in the plains of the Himalayas. Siva told sage
DURMUKHl. A companion of the Raksasa woman Narayana everything about his plight and he asked the
calledAjamukhl. See Ajamukhl. former to pierce his left hand with the Sula. Siva did
DURVARA. Son of King Suratha of Kundalanagara. so and three streams of blood flowed out of the wound
When Suratha captured the yajnasva (sacrificial horse) made on the hand of the Rsi, one stream towards the
of Sri Rama Satrughna clashed with him. Durvara sphere of the stars, another into the skull in Siva's
also was present on the occasion. (Padma Purana, hand and from the third stream Durvasas was born.
Patala khanda, Chapter 49). Brahma, who witnessed this miracle withdrew from
DURVARAiyA I. An army chieftain of the King of war and returned to his abode. (Vamana Purana,
Kamboja. He was killed in the great war by Satyaki. Chapter 2).
(M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 112, Verse 42). (3) In the fierce fight with the Tripuras Siva, in great
DURVARATiJA II. A messenger of the very powerful rage, ultimately shot an arrow against them, and that
Jalandhara. When the Devas and the Asuras churned arrow, after killing the Tripuras, assumed the form of
Ksirabdhi 'ocean of milk) many excellent things emer-
,
a child and returned to the lap of Siva, and the child
ged out of it. When those things were divided among was named Durvasas. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chap-
them Devendra took possession of 14 gems in an
all, ter 160, Verses 14, 15).
unauthorised manner. When Jalandhara, through his 3) Kunti granted boon. Once while Kunti was living in
messenger Durvarana, demanded Devendra to return the palace of Kuntibhoja Durvasas came there, and
the gems, not only did he not return them but he also pleased with Kunti, he granted her five mantras. It
declared war against Jalandhara. When war broke out was with the aid of those mantras that Kunti became
Jalandhara hesitated as to whether he should fight mother of Kama and others. (For details see under
with Visnu or with Siva. Durvarana advised him first Kunti Para 2) '.
to fight with Siva. (Padma Purana, Uttarakhanda, 4) Sri Krfna bathed in payasa (pudding) . Once Durvasas
Chapter 16) . came to Dvaraka where Krsna and Rukmini looked
DURVASAS after him to his heart's content. Though, at times he
1) Genealogy. A sage, who used to lose his
temper took only meagre food, at other times he destroyed
very easily. He is believed to have been born from an everything he saw and created trouble. Krsna and
amsa (part, aspect) of Siva. Rukmini served him according to schedule. One day
DURVASAS 257 DURYODHANA I
the sage asked Krsna to cook some
pudding and it was DURVIBHAGA. A particular area in ancient India.
got ready. Then the sage asked Krsna to smear his The Ksatriya kings of the area presented a lot of
(Krsna) body with pudding. Krsna did so except on money and foodgrains to Yudhisthira at the Rajasuya
his feet. After that Durvfisas got down the chariot and
yajna. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 52,Verse 11).
making Krsna and RukminI serve as horses himself got DURVIGAHA (DURVISAHA). One of the hundred
into it and drove away in great speed into the forest. sons of Dhrtarastra. He was killed in the great war
On the way he thrashed the 'horses' one ofter the by
Bhlmasena. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 26, Verse 20).
other. Neither Krsna nor Rukmim felt
sorry about this DURVIMOCANA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrta-
action of the sage. On
reaching the forest he halted rastra killed by Bhlmasena. (Drona Parva, Chapter
the chariot and blessed Sri Krsna that arrows would
not hit the parts of Krsna's body which were smeared 127, Verse 62).'
with the payasa. The spot at which the blessed sage
DURVIROCANA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrta-
Krsna became famous as Varadanatirtha in after
years.
rastra killed by Bhlmasena (Drona Parva, Chapter
It may be noted that Krsna died by an arrow hitting 127, Verse 62).
his foot which was not smeared with the payasa. (M.B. DURVISAHA (DURVIGAHA). One of the 100 sons
Anusasana Parva, Chapter 160). or Dhrtarastra. He attended the svayarhvara of
5) Conducted yajna for Svetaki. There once was a King Pancali, On the occasion of the procession of Duryo-
called Svetaki equal to Indra. He conducted a dhana and others, Durvisaha was put in prison. (Vana
yajiia
of a hundred years' duration. Innumerable brahmins Parva, Chapter 242, Verse 12). He was killed by
were engaged in the successful conduct of the yajna. Bhlmasena in the great war. (Salya Parva, Chapter
Some years after the yajna began the brahmins went 26, Verse 20).
their own way leaving it unfinished as the clouds of DURYODHANA I. Villain in the Mahabharata story;
fume all the twentyfour hours in the yajnasala irked the eldest and greatest of the Kauravas.
and affected their eyes. When Svetaki requested them See under Kauravas.
(1) Genealogy.
to further
cooperate to complete the yajna they 2 Birth. Dhrtarastra born blind married Gandhari.
( )
insultingly asked him to invite Sudras for it. Then Hungry and Vyasa once came to Dhrtarastra's
thirsty,
the King went to the Himalayas and did tapas for
palace where Gandharl treated him sumptuously, and
Siva, who deputed Durvasas to complete the
at last he blessed her to have hundred sons by her husband.
yajna, and under the maharsi's aegis it was completed Ere long Gandhari conceived, but even after two years
within twelve years. On account of the constant offe- she did not deliver. Grief-stricken at this she got
rings of havis in Agni (fire) during the period Agni herself aborted in secret as the result of which she
fell a
prey to indigestion, which was cured only after 'delivered' a mass of flesh, and hearing about it Vyasa
itate up the Khandava forest. (See Khandava visited her. As instructed by him hundred pots were
dahana). filled
(M.B. Adi Parva,' Chapter 235). with ghee, and the mass of flesh was sprayed with cold
6) Mudgala granted salvation. Once Durvasas went to water as a result of which it got divided into hundred
sage Mudgala who was doing tapas in Kuruksetra pieces, each the size of a thumb. Also a smaller piece of
taking food only rarely and demanded some food with flesh remained. Those pieces of flesh were deposited in the
the object of testing his dharmavrtti (righteousness). pots filled with ghee and the pots kept in a secret place.
The sage gave Durvasas all the food he had with him, Vyasa departed for the Himalayas for tapas.
himself starving, and Durvasas left the asrama after In course of time the pots burst open one by one and
eating a part of the food and smearing his body with from each pot emerged a boy. From the 101st pot a girl
the rest of it. This process was repeated by Durvasas was born. Eldest among the boys was named
for six days, but Mudgala never felt or showed
any Duryodhana, and the girl called Dussala. (For other
offence. Greatly pleased at the firm righteousness of names see under Kauravas) .
to look after Dhrtarastra, who begot of her a son called would impart the strength of 10,000 elephants. And
Yuyutsu. Thus with 100 sons and Dussala for daughterJ
1
then at the instance of Vasuki Bhima took his bath in
Dhrtarastra became rich in the matter of children holy waters and wore new clothes and fragrant garland.
(M. B. Adi Parva, Chapter 1 14) . He ate the pudding offered by Vasuki, and taking leave
of him and followed by nagas he came up from the
(2) Duryodhana harms Bhimasena. Now, Pandu was
dead and Madrl also died in the funeral pyre of her water to the bank of the Gaiiga. Bhima gave a detailed
husband. Forlorn and helpless KuntI and her five sons description to his mother and brothers of all that had
came Hastinapura, and Dhrtarastra welcomed them
to happened to him. Dharmaputra advised him to keep
to the palace.Thus arose the occasion for the Pandavas the secret. After the incident, once again was Kalakuta
and the Kauravas to live together in the Hastina- poison mixed in the food of Bhima. But, Yuyutsu born
of the vaisya woman to Dhrtarastra gave the Pandavas
pura palace. And, naturally there used to be petty
differences and quarrels between the Pandava and confidential report about it. Because of the powerful
Kaurava princes. Bhima being in every way a giant the effect of naga rasa, the Kalakuta consumed by Bhima
Kauravas had often to suffer at his hands. To collect all did no harm to him but it only got assimilated in his
the hundred Kaurava brothers together and throw them body. On another occasion Duryodhana killed the
charioteer of Bhima. (Bhasa Bharata, Chapter 127 and
away in one lump to push them to the ground, to suffo-
cate them by holding their heads under water etc these 129).
were some of the childish pranks played by Bhima on 3) Kama crowned king of Anga. The Kauravas and the
the Kauravas. The constant repetition of such pranks Pandavas learnt the use of weapons of war at the feet
and mischiefs on the part of Bhima rendered him an of Dronacarya, and when the studies were over arrange-
object of hatred for the Kauravas among whom the ments were made for a rehearsal, and at the rehearsal
common conviction grew that it was essential to put an Bhima and Duryodhana were the first to clash with
end to Bhlma's life for their safety, nay even their very each other. When the encounter reached its climax
existence. both of them pointed the club at each other. But, Asvat-
One day, the Kauravas, with the object of doing away thama intervened and pacified them. Next Kama enter-
with Bhima, escorted the Pandavas to Pramanakoti on ed the stage for a trial of strength with Arjuna, and
the banks of the Gaiiga for water sports. There all of at once arose from the Pandava side questions about
them ate sumptuous meals and took various drinks. But, Kama's nobility and aristocracy of birth etc. Kama
stood there stunned, not knowing what to say or how
Duryodhana had secretly mixed Kalakuta poison in the
food of Bhima. After taking meals they began playing to repel the attack. Then it was Duryodhana who rose
up announce that he was, that very moment, crowning
to
water-sports. After the sports were over they returned
to their tents and slept. Owing to the effects of the Kama King of Anga. This ended the scene. (Bharata
poison and the overexertion during the day Bhima (Malayalam), Adi Parva, Chapters 134, 135 and 136).
slept stone dead. While all were asleep during the night 4) Pandavas trapped in palace built of lac. The above
Duryodhana bound the hands and legs of Bhima with incident confirmed and completed the cleavage of the
cords and threw him into the depths of the Gaiiga. Pandavas and the Kauravas into two hostile camps.
Bhima who was still unconscious sank down to the very Meantime another event happened. Dronacarya demand-
bottom of the river where the denizens of nagaloka saw ed of his pupils to bring before him King Drupada
him and the nagas bit him in anger. The poison of the by way of gurudaksina (tuition fee) for the acarya had
,
Bhima, though their bite could not make even a scratch Though Duryodhana tried his best he could not capture
on his skin. Freed thus from the effects of poison Bhima Drupada. Not only that, Drupada defeated him also in
shook himself up from sleep and drove off the nagas. fight. At this junture it was Arjuna who presented
Alarmed at these developments the nagas called Vasuki Drupada as captive to Drona by way of gurudaksina.
up to the scene, and he, recognising Bhima held him in The incident proved to be another provocation for
embrace and gave him much money and costly gems Duryodhana to hate the Pandavas.
etc. Bhima refused the gifts, but asked Vasuki for naga- Now, Duryodhana made up his mind to destroy the
rasa, which would impart the strength of thousand nagas Pandavas somehow or other. With this end in view he
to those who used it. Vasuki gave Bhima eight potfuls went himself to be a great well-
to his father, posing
of njigarasa, which the latter drank to the last dregs wisher of the Pandavas, and obtained his. permission to
and thus gained immeasurable strength. transfer their (Pandavas') residence to another palace.
When next morning after the water-sports the Pandavas Accordingly Duryodhana deputed his minister Purocana
and the Kauravas awoke from sleep Bhima was found to get built at Varanavata a palace of lac. Vidura came
missing. Duryodhana said that Bhima had returned to know of the intended mischief and gave advance
earlier to Hastinapura, but this did not satisfy the notice of it to the Pandavas through a messenger
Pandavas. KuntI lamented over the absence of Bhima. Kanaka. The architect built the 'lac palace' but built a
Bhima, who drank the nagarasa lay on the veranda of tunnel also attached to it. A year after the Pandavas shift-
Vasuki for eight days in the manner of one who had ed the residence to the new 'palace' Duryodhana set.
lost consciousness. By the time he woke up on the eighth fire to it, and the Pandavas escaped unscathed
through
day the body had almost fully assimilated the rasa. this tunnel. (Bharata (Malayalam) Adi Parva, Chapters
Vasuki told Bhima that eight potfuls of nagarasa 141-151).
1. Vyasa blessed Gandhari to have ion sons. Then how was it that she got a daughter too ? On being questioned thus by King
Janamejaya VaiSarhpSyana replied "when Vyasa was dividing the mass of flesh a desire to have a daughter entered the heart of GSndhftrl
and divining that desire Vyasa cut the flesh in such a manner as to have one more piece, viz. 101.
2. Duryodhana was born as a part of Kali. (M.B. Asrama- vasika Parva, Chapter i) .
DURYODHANA I 259 DURYODHANA I
5) Duryodhana invited the Pandavas back to Hastinapura. royal hall to witness the game. First gems were staked,
Duryodhana and were living very happily
his brothers and Duryodhana won the game. Then 000 golden niskas'
1
under the impression that the Pandavas had been burnt and treasuries were offered to the winner. Duryodhana
to ashes along with the 'lac Palace'. Then it was that won that game also. Next chariot with horses and next
the Pandavas, disguised as brahmins and in the
presence to that 1000 maid-servants were staked and Duiyodhana
of all the Kings, won Pancali, the daughter of won those games too. 1 000 horses, 1 000 golden chariots
King
Drupada, in svayarhvara, for their wife. After the with their horses, the horse decorated with gold presen-
marriage the Pandavas stayed in Drupada's palace and ted by Citraratha to Arjuna, 6000 soldiers with their
the Kauravas returned to Hastinapura. arms and armaments these formed the next successive
Duryodhana
and others felt all the more jealous at the Pandavas' bets, and each game Dharmaputra lost. The next bet
becoming more powerful as a result of their marriage. was 400 copper vessels each filled with pure gold, and
Again it was decided that the Pandavas should be des- Duryodhana won that game And, now Vidura
also.
troyed anyhow and at any cost. But, how to effect the tried to dissuade Yudhisthira from playing the game;
destruction? Duryodhana wanted to attract the Panda- but neither he nor Duryodhana heeded the advice. And,
vas to destruction through women and to create diffe- Duryodhana by foul play snatched from Dharmaputra
rences and divisions among them. But, Kama attacked all his wealth, his kingdom and his brothers. Now, Pan-
the plan as impracticable, and instead he wanted to call alone remained, and Dharmaputra bet her too
defeat Drupada and render the Pandavas impotent. At and played the last game and lost..
this stage Bhlsma and Drona argued that it was most
Duryodhana deputed his Pratikami, to Indra-
Siita,
preferable to give half the Kingdom to the Pandavas
him back. Next
and receive them with grace. Dhrtarastra supported prastha, to fetch Draupadi but she sent
DusSasana was deputed and he brought Pancali to the
the proposal as a result of which the Kauravas went to
sabha. dragging her by the hair. She was proclaimed to
Pancala and escorted the Pandavas back to Hasti-
be the maid-servant of the Kauravas. At last Dhrtarastra
napura. Dhrtarastra partitioned the country between intervened and sent back the Pandavas along with
the Kauravas and the Pandavas and the latter shifted
Draupadi to Indraprastha.
their residence to their part of the country with Khan-
davaprastha (Indraprastha) as its capital. When the
7) Second game and exile in the forest. Duryodhana and
Pandavas went to Indraprastha Maya built for them others did not appreciate the intervention of their father.
an exceptionally beautiful palace where King Dharma- He again conspired with Sakuni and it was decided to
putra performed rajasuya. Duryodhana and others ear- challenge Dharmaputra to one more game. The condi-
tions to be stipulated were that the vanquished in the
nestly participated in it. After the rajasuya the Kaura-
vas wanted to have a look at the palace and in the game should stay in exile for twelve years in the forest
course of it themselves in
and live incognito during the thirteenth year, and if
surveying they placed
ridiculous situations due found out and recognised during this period the whole
Taking the
to visual illusions.
bright floors of glass for watery tanks they pulled up process of exile and life incognito would have to be
their clothings and measured with caution every foot of repeated. Duryodhana and Sukuni approached Dhrta-
theirs. Then they mistook actual pools for floor and fell
rastra and said to him thus: "Dear father, the desire
into them and got wet. At the consequent discomfiture for revenge at their defeat in the game of dice gnaws
of the Kauravas Bhima clapped his hands and roared at the Pandavas' heart like poison. Also, they will never
with laughter. Draupadi hid her face with hands and forget our having dragged Draupadi by her hair. When
smiled. Altogether the Kauravas cut a very ridiculous a suitable occasion arises they will take revenge on the
whole lot of us. Therefore, we want to challenge
figure, and they returned to Hastinapura. (M.B. Adi
Parva, Chapter 202, Sabha Parva, Chapters 35, 85) .
Dharmaputra to a final game of dice, the condition
6) Dharmaputra' s first defeat in the game of dice. The being that he who gets defeated should go in exile into
the forest for twelve years and then to live incognito
sight of the great wealth including costly stones and
for one year. If we get defeated we will simply carry
gems presented by various kings to Dharmaputra at the
out the condition on our part.
Rajasuya and the humiliation experienced while survey-
ing the palace made Duryodhana all the more mad
This request of Duryodhana appealed to his father, who
with anger and hatred towards the Pandavas. He now invited Dharmaputra once again for a game of dice.
came to the decision either to defeat the Pandavas once Dharmaputra accepted the invitation, in fact, in spite
for all or to commit suicide by taking poison. He held of himself. This time too Duryodhana won the stake
secret consultations on the topic with Sakuni whose and the Pandavas set out to the forest. Even at the
efforts at first to pacify him (Duryodhana) failed. Ulti- time of parting Dussasana insulted Bhima who retorted
thus: "You, mean fellows, you cheated my brother by
mately Sakuni, an expert in the game of dice, advised
Duryodhana to invite Dharmaputra to a game, assuring your heart open in fight and
foul play. If I fail to tear
him that the rest he would take care of. Dhrtarastra and drink blood Ido not want heaven. Moreover I will kill
Vidura advised Duryodhana against the move, but he Duryodhana, and Arjuna will kill Karna. Sakuni, the
did not yield. Finally Dhrtarastra, saying to himself expert in foul play in dice will be killed by Sahadeva.
that nobody would change fate, agreed to Duryodhana's We will meet in the 14th year from today at the
battlefield. Adieu."
proposal, and deputed Vidura to Dharmaputra to invite
him for the game. Thus did the Pandavas depart for the forest. Kunti
Dharmaputra, in fact, did not like the game, but he being too old Vidura took her to his house, and he
succumbed to the eloquence and persuasive powers of consoled her, lamenting over the separation from her
Sakuni and at last agreed to play. Kings lined up the children. (M.B. Sabha Parva) .
Maitreya's proposals should be respected lest he should 12) Boon from Durvdsas. Once Durvasas accompanied
curse the King. Dhrtarastra and Duryodhana received
by his disciples, came to Duiyodhana's palace, and
the sage with respect. And, the sage asked them to
recall the Pandavas from the forest and live on
Duryodhana decided somehow or other to befriend and
friendly use the maharsi as a weapon against the Pandavas. He
terms with them. Duryodhana did not in any manner housed the maharsi and his disciples in the palace for
respond advice of the sage, but stood there
to the a few days and pleased them by careful service at which
absolutely mum
tapping his thigh with his fingers and the maharsi asked Duryodhana to request for any boon
making drawings with the fingers of his feet on the he desired. And, Duryodhana asked the maharsi to
ground. This the sage interpreted as an insult to him. visitthe Pandavas one day in the forest with his disciples
He stood up ablaze with anger and cursed Duryodhana when they had finished taking their meals. The
thus: "You will, sooner than later reap the conse- maharsi agreed. And, this was the period of time when
quences of your false pride; your cruelty will invite Pancali had received the aksayapatra from Surya.
terrible war, and in the fight Bhlma will rend asunder
Everyday the patra would produce enough food for the
your thigh, which you struck with your fingers Pandavas and the other people with them, but it would
just now." become empty for the day after Pancall had eaten her
Greatly agitated over the curse Dhrtarastra prayed food. This was the nature of the aksayapatra.
the sage for redemption and the sage said: "if only Pancall had finished her meals one day when Durvasas
your son resorts to forebearance and peace the curse and came to the Pandavas. Not knowing
his disciples
will not take effect, otherwise it will come true." And
that Pancall had already finished her food Dharma-
after making this announcement the sage returned to
putra welcomed the maharsi and his disciples and
the forest. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 10). requested them to take bath in the Gaiiga and return for
9) The procession. While the Pandavas were staying their meals. Pancall was in a fix. The aksayapatra
in the Kamyaka forest Duryodhana and others went would not produce any more food for the day, and if
there on the pretext of looking after the cows. The not duly fed the maharsi would get angry and curse
Gandharvas took them captive; but the Pandavas them. In this painful dilemma she prayed to Sri Krsna
intervened and set them free. Feeling humiliated at the for succour, and lo! he appeared and asked Pancall for
mishap Duryodhana decided to end his life after crown- some food. She replied that the aksayapatra was quite
ing Dussasana as King. But DuSsasana did not agree empty. But, Krsna got from her the patra and ate one
to the proposal. (For details see Ghosayatra) .
particle of Kira (a leafy vegetable) which had stuck on
Duryodhana's attempt at death and his trip to Patala. its side. That leafy substance fully satisfied his
10) hunger
Humiliated at the procession thus and turning down and thirst whereupon the hunger and thirst of Durvasas
the advice of friends to return to the palace,
Duryo- and his disciples were also quenched. Then Krsna
dhana spread grass on the ground and lay down there asked Sahadeva to bring back the maharsi and his
to die.As his death would spell disaster to the Danavas disciples from the bank of the Gariga and accordingly
they decided to send him back to his palace for which he went there and invited them. Only a few minutes
purpose they performed the Vaitana sacrifice in Patala. had passed since the maharsi and his disciples had felt
While offering milk in the sacrificial fire a Raksasa the satisfaction of a sumptuous meal. They were also
woman, Krtya, arose therefrom, and at the instance astonished to thinkhow in such a short time food for so
of the Danavas she carried Duryodhana over to Patala. many people could be cooked by Pancall. They felt
There they told him thus: "Oh Duryodhana, a part rather anxious about the reaction which Dharmaputra
of your body has been earned by us from Siva by our would evince in case they returned to him to say that
penance. That part of your body above the waist is they required no food. Durvasas realised only too well
made of diamond. Therefore, arrows will not pierce that to quarrel with the Pandavas, who enjoyed the
your body. Grieve not. Bhagadatta and other heroes friendship and support of Krsna was like playing with
have been born to help you. Your great supporter fire. Therefore, the maharsi with his disciples ran
away
Kama possessed of the soul of Narakasura." These
is from the place secretly. Pandavas waited long for the
words of the Danavas instilled fresh hope in Duryo- maharsi and his disciples to return fearing that the object
dhana, and he was taken back to his Kingdom by Krtya. of Durvasas might be to return at the untimely hour
This incident appeared as a dream to Duryodhana. and curse them. But, Sri Krsna told them the details
Bucking up confidence and courage again he returned about the maharsi's departure and assured Dharma-
to Hastinapura and continued to rule
(M.B. Vana putra that he and his disciples would not return. (M.B.
Parva, Chapter 252). Vana Parva, Chapter 263).
11) Duryodhana's Visnu yajna. At this juncture Duryo- 13) War against Virata. After twelve years' exile in the
dhana thought of performing a Rajasuya for which he forest the Pandavas began their life incogni to at Virata
invited brahmins to the palace. After
bestowing much nagara. Kicaka, brother-in-law of Matsya, the Virata
thought on the subject the brahmins pointed out that King, was killed secretly by Bhimasena, and news was
there was no sanction for Duryodhana to conduct a spread that Kicaka was killed by a Gandharva.
Rajasuya as his elders,Dhrtarastra and Dharmaputra None of the spies deputed by Duryodhana to spot out
were still alive. At the same time they pointed out that the Pandavas during their life incognito could gather
DURYODHANA 261 DURYODHANA I
Verse 18).
any information about them. One of those days (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 8,
Susarman, King of Trigarta, told Duryodhana that the (5) Duryodhana could collect a total of eleven aksa-
Virata King had lost his power and spirits due to the uhinls. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 19, Verse 27).
death of Klcaka and it was, therefore, the proper time (6) He assured Dhrtarastra
that the Kaurava army
to attack the Virata country and subjugate it thor- would easily defeat the Pandava army. (M.B. Udyoga
oughly. The idea appealed to Kama, who prompted Parva, Chapter 57) .
land as would hold a pin', and war became inevitable. (13) Krsna's pleadings in the Kaurava assembly for
The Pandavas and Kauravas fought the great war which peace and amity on behalf of the Pandavas failed to
lasted for eighteen days on the field of Kuruksetra. have any effect. On the occasion Duryodhana, Sakuni,
(
1
) Duryodhana went to invite Sri Krsna. Preparations for Kama and Dussasana conspired to take Krsna captive.
the war were gathering speed and momentum. Both Satyakiinformed Krsna secretly about the conspiracy
the sides were on the look out for more friends and and Krsna informed Dhrtarastra about it, and he
allies. Being told that Arjuna. had gone to Dvaraka to warned the conspirators against their wicked plan.
seek Krsna's support Duryodhana rushed to the place. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 13, Verse 4).-
Seeing Duryodhana from a distance Krsna lay on his (14) Duryodhana appointed Krpa, Drona, Salya,
bed in a false sleep, and Duryodhana took his seat Jayadratha, Hardika, Asvatthama, Kama, Sakuni,
on a stool at the head of the bed awaiting Krsna to Balhika and Kamboja as commanders of the army.
awake from sleep. Soon after, Arjuna came there and (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 155).
he stood at the feet of Krsna with head bowed down. (15) Duryodhana appointed Bhisma as the Commander
When Krsna awoke from sleep it was Arjuna whom he in-Chief of the army. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 156
saw first, and while exchanging greetings with Arjuna verse 26) .
he was told that it was Duryodhana, who had come (16) appointed Uluka as messenger and warned
He
first. But when Duryodhana and Arjuna explained the Sri Krsna, the Pandavas, Drupada, Virata, Sikhandl,
object of their visit he told them thus: Dhrstadyumna and others. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter
"No doubt it was Duryodhana who came first. But, it 10)'."
was Arjuna whom I met first. Since Duryodhana came (17) He ordered the army to the Kuruksetra field.
first and I saw Arjuna first I shall help both of you in (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 195).
war. There is the adage that youngsters should be (18) He appointed Dussasana as Bhisma 's body-guard.
given priority of consideration. So, Arjuna may indi- (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 15).
(19) On the flag staff of Duryodhana studded
cate his preference first. I shall give one of you an army with gems
of 10 lakhs of warriors as. strong in body as myself, his flagwith the serpent's emblem flew high in the air.
and I shall stand by the other without arms and with- (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 17, Verse 25).
out fighting. Arjuna may make his choice first. And, (20) He learnt from Drona the names of heroes on
he chose Krsna for his side in the war while Duryodhana both sides before the fighting started. (Bhisma Parva,
was happy to get Krsna's mighty army. (M.B. Udyoga- Chapter 25) .
Parva, Chapter 7) .
15) Duryodhana in battlefield. The following incidents
relating to Duryodhana in actual war have
been noted.
(2) Duryodhana sought Balabhadra's help but Bala-
bhadra told him frankly that since he could not forsake In the first he fainted, hit by the
(1) day's fighting
Krsna he would remain neutral in the war. ( M.B. arrows of Bhlma. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 58, Verse 1 7) .
(4) Salya promised to captain the Kaurava army. down fainted. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 80, Verse 4) .
DURYODHANA I 262 DURYODHANA I
(4) Dhrstadyumna defeated him. (Bhisnia Parva, (33) He prompted Alambusa, son of Jatasura to fight
Chapter 82, Verse 53) . with Ghatotkaca. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 1 74, Verse
(5) Bhima killed eight brothers of Duryodhana at one 9).
stretch, and Duryodhana cried before Bhlsma. (Bhlsma (34) He fought with Nakula and got defeated. (Bhisma
Parva, Chapter 88, Verse 37) .
Parva, Chapter 187, Verse 50).
(6) He fought against Ghatotkaca and killed four (35) On the death of Drona he ran away from the
Raksasa attendants of the latter. (Bhlsma Parva Chapter battlefield.(Drona Parva, Chapter 193, Verse 17).
91, Verse 20). (36) After the death of Drona he appointed Karna
(7)
He fell down at the blows delivered by Ghatotkaca. chief of the army. (Kama Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 43) .
(10) He directed
Salya to fight against Yudhisthira. (39) He created so much troubles and difficulties for
(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 105, Verse 26). Nakula and Sahadeva in fight with them.
(11) Grieved at the death of the warriors in his army (Karna Parva, Chapter 56) .
he went to Bhisma in great anguish. (Bhlsma Parva (40) In further fighting he got defeated by Bhima.
Chapter 109, Verse 16). (Karna Parva, Chapter 61, Verse 51) .
( 12) Duryodhana and Satyaki fought against each other. (41) He killed the Kulinda prince. (Karna Parva,
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 111, Verse 14). Chapter 85, Verse 19).
(13) He fought with Abhimanyu. (Bhlsma Parva, (42) When Asvatthama put forward certain compro-
Chapter 116, Verse 1). mise proposals he rejected them. (Karna Parva, Chapter
( 14)
He appointed Drona as chief of the army. 88, Verse 30) . .
manyu. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 39 Verse 16). (46) He was again defeated by Bhima. (Salya Parva,
(18) He prompted Karna to fight Abhimanyu. (Bhisma Chapter 16, Verse 42).
Parva, Chapter 40, Verse 23). (47) He was defeated by Dhrstadyumna. ( Salya Parva,
(19) He ran off at the blows of Abhimanyu. (Bhisma Chapter 25, Verse 23).
Parva. Chapter 45, Verse 30) .
(48) After the defeat he ran away from the battlefield,
(20) He consoled Jayadratha who ran away in fear of entered a pool rendering the water motionless by
Arjuna. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 74, Verse 14). magical power and stayed under water. (Salya Parva,
(21) When he admitted that he was not efficient to Chapter 29, Verse 54) .
fight Arjuna. Drona tied a divine talisman on his body. (49) Krpacarya, Asvatthama and Krtavarman went to
(Bhisma Parva. Chapter 94, Verse 73) . his hiding place and tried to arouse him for war but he
(22) Defeated by Arjuna he ran away with the talisman expressed disinclination for war. (Salya Parva, Chapter,
on him. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 103, Verse 32). 30, Verse 14) .
(23) Satyaki defeated Duryodhana. (Bhisma Parva, (50) Yudhisthira visited Duryodhana in the latter's
Chapter 120 Verse 40) .
hiding place, but he answered Yudhisthira from under
(24) He got defeated by Yudhamanyu and Uttamaujas water. (Salya Parva, Chapter 31, Verse 33).
(Bhisma Parva Chapter 102 Verse 30). (51) On
the urging of Yudhisthira he came out of the
(25) He incited Karna to kill Arjuna. (Bhisma Parva, pool. (Salya Parva, Chapter 32, Verse 33).
Chapter 145, Verse 12). (52) He got prepared for club fight with Bhima. (Salya
(26) Helosthis enthusiasm with the death of Jayadratha Parva, Chapter 33, Verse 52) .
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 150). (53) 111 omens like storms, dust fall, thunder and light-
(27) He made allegations against Drona. (Bhisma ning, followed his preparations for fight with Bhima.
Parva, Chapter 152, Verse 2) .
(Salya Parva, Chapter 56, Verse 8).
(28) He
fought with Yudhisthira and got defeated. (54) He fell down at the blows of Bhima with his thigh
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 153, Verse 23). broken. (Salya Parva, Chapter 58, Verse 47).
(29) Asvatthama got ready to kill Karna, but Duryo- (55) Sri Krsna spoke harsh words to him and he
dhana pacified him. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 150, replied to them all. (Salya Parva, Chapter 61, Verse
Verse 13). 27 )-
(30) He fought with Bhima and got defeated. (Bhisma (56) He shed tears before Salya. (Salya Parva, Chapter
Parva, Chapter 166, Verse 30) . 61, Verse 7).
(31) He deputed Sakuni to kill the Pandavas. (Bhisma (57) He appointed Asvatthama chief of the army.
Parva, Chapter 1 70, Verse 60) .
(Salya Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 41).
(32) He got defeated in fight with Sityaki. (Bhisma (58) Congratulating Asvatthama he cast away his mor-
Parva, Chapter 171, Verse 23). tal coils. (Sauptika Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 56) .
DURYODHANA II 263 DUSSASANA I
(5) Yudhisthira saw Duryodhana, after his death, living and 89) .
Kurusattama, Kururaja, Kurusirhha, Kuruttama, Suyo- (3) He dragged Panca.li and stripped her of her clothes
dhana. in the assembly hall of the Kauravas. (For details see
DURYODHANA II. The Mahabharata refers to another under Pancali) .
Duryodhana, grandson of Suvira, and son ofDurjaya. (4) Gandharvas took him captive in Dvaitavana.
( Anus
asana Parva, Chapter 2, Verse 18). A daughter (See under Kauravas) .
called Sudarsana was born to him by his wife Narmada. (5) The Pandavas released the Kauravas from cap-
Duryodhana married Sudarsana to Agnideva. tivity, and Duryodhana laden with this humiliation
DUSANA. A Raksasa. Dusana, who came along with did not desire to return to Hastinapura. He asked
Khara to fight, was killed by Sri Rama. (See Khara) .
Dussasana to assume kingship and rule the subjects
well. Dussasana rejected the offer and wept. This
DUSKARNA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra. was a good trait in the vicious character of Dussasana
He was defeated in fighting in the great war by Sata-
like lightning in the midst of dark and thick clouds.
nlka. (Drona Parva, Chapter 155).
(Vana Parva, Chapter 249).
DUSPANYA. Last son of a merchant in Pataliputra. 3) Dussasana in the great war. (1) During the first
Short-tempered and haughty, this Duspanya killed many day of the war he fought a duel with Nakula. ( Bhlsma
children. The King outlawed him. He went into the
Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 22) .
many years he approached Agastya and prayed for (4) Abhimanyu rendered him unconscious with his
redemption from the curse. The sage directed his dis- arrows. (Drona Parva, Chapter 40, Verse 13) .
ciple, Sutiksna to get holy water from Agnitirtha in (5) He got defeated by Arjuna and ran away from
Mount Gandhamadana and sprinkle it on the sinful the battlefield. (Drona Parva, Chapter 10) .
DUSSAHA. A son of Dhrtarastra. He was wounded by (12) Sahadeva defeated him. (Kama Parva, Chapter
the arrows of Satyaki and killed by B*hirna. (Drona 23, Verse 18).
Parva, Chapter 135). (13) Dussasana put Dhrstadyumna in prison. (Kama
DUSSALA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra who Parva, Chapter 61. Verse 33) .
was killed in war by BhTma. (Drona Parva, Chapter (14) He fought with Bhlma. (Kama Parva, Chanter
129, Verse 39). 82).
DUSSASANA II 264 DUSYANTA I
4) Death of Duttasana. In the fierce fight between death, and its rage having not yet subsided it threw
Bhlma and Dussasana at Kuruksetra Bhlma felled him around his bones. Dussasana, who ended his life thus
with his club and sat on his chest asking him was reborn as an elephant and was owned by King
with which hand of his he pulled DraupadI by hair, Jayadeva of Ceylon for a long time. A great friend of
Raising his right hand Dussasana cried out, "This King Khadgabahu, Jayadeva presented the elephant
is the hand you seek for". At this reply of his to him. At the sight of its brothers and other relations
Bhlma pulled out Dussasana's right hand and thrashed memory about its previous birth dawned on the eleph-
him with it. He cut asunder Dussasana's chest and ant. And, it lived in great grief. After some days the
drank the blood which gushed out of it (Karna Parva, King presented the animal to a poet pleased at his
Chapter 83, Verse 8) .
samasyapurana (filling the three lines of a stanza in
5) After his death. (1) After Du<'s"asana's death Arjuna
tune with the fourth line given) The poet sold the
.
his palace. (Santi Parva, Chapter 44, Verse elephant to the King of Malava as it
got ill with
occupied
fever. In spite of the best treatment administered to it
8).
the elephant seemed to be nearing its end. Without
(2) Vyasa evoked the souls of the heroes who died in
either eating or drinking or sleeping the animal stood
war and sprinkled Ganges water on them. Dussasana
was one among those thus treated. (A^ramavasika motionless shedding tears day and night. One
day, the Malava King visited the elephant when,
Parva, Chapter 32, Verse 9) .
could not chain it again. People in terror of the elephant DUSSILA. A harlot who lived in Pratisthana. One
ran helter-skelter. Now, a brahmin was going that way Devadasa was her husband. When Devadasa had once
chanting verses of the 16th Chapter of the Gita, and even gone to the palace on some business DusYila hid her
though the mahouts warned him he did not change paramour, with the object of doing away with her
his path. Instead he saluted the elephant by touching husband, on top of the ceiling of her room. He killed
its cheeks and proceeded on his way unhurt by the ani- Devadasa while the latter was sleeping in the night.
mal. The King felt great respect for the brahmin when Next day when people gathered at her house she gave
he was told that he owed his miraculous powers to out the story that her husband was murdered by thieves.
the 16th chapter of the Gita, and he took the brahmin But the people got the true story about the death of
with him to his palace. The King gave him 1 00,000 golden Devadasa from his four-year-old son and beat DusY.Ila
coins and received from him the Gita mantra. He began to death. (Katha.saritsa.gara, Saktiyasolambaka,
reciting daily certain verses in the 16th Chapter of the Taranga 2) .
by it. He attained salvation by hearing the 1 7th Chap- became an object of envy for other rulers. Under his rule
ter of the Bhagavadgita. the four castes flourished in affluence. None was threa-
Dus"sasana, an idiot, betting a huge sum of money with tened with illness or by thieves. The seasons marched
the junior mahouts of the elephant and unheeding the in due order, the clouds raining at the proper time etc.
warnings of several people once mounted the elephant. "Like the ocean not getting agitated, and putting up
Children agitated the animal and Dussasana fell down with everything with unique patience like the earth,
from its back. The angry animal stamped the fool to Dusyanta ruled the country" (Adi Parva, Chapter 68) .
I. The genealogy given above has been taken jointly from Agnipurana, Bhagavata and Visnupurana. But the Mahabhiirata
(Adi Parva, Chapter 0,4, Verse 17) gives Ilin as the name of Dusyanta's father and Rathantlas that of his mother. It may be
surmised that Santurodha and Ilin were one and the same individual.
DUSYANTA II 265 DVAIDHlBHAVA
3) Marriage and birth of son. Once Dusyanta set out laksanas. The following are some of the important
to a forest to hunt. Seated in his chariot, which moved diitalaksanas.
with the speed of Garuda he came to a beautiful forest. (1) The caste of the person bitten by the snake and
Weary with hunger and thirst the King, leaving the the caste of the duta.
attendants behind walked into the hermitage of the sage (2) The first word uttered by the duta. If it is the
Kanva. Proceeding along the sand on the banks of name of the patient, has a special significance.
it
should become the next monarch. Sakuntala got preg- DVADASADITYA (S) The twelve sons born to Kasyapa
.
nant, and after promising that she would duly be by his wife Aditi are
called Dvadasadityas (Twelve
conducted to the palace Dusyanta returned. Adityas) The word Aditya means 'born of Aditi'. As it
No sooner had Dusyanta left the asrama than Kanva, occurs in Agni Purana (Ch. 5 1 ) a table, showing the names
who had been out returned to the asrama. With his of the twelve Adityas and the sign of the Zodiac over
divine eyes he understood what had happened in his which each Aditya predominates and the colour of it,
absence. Kanva blessed Sakuntala that she would have is given below.
an excellent son, who would become an excellent Colour
Dvadasadityas. Sign of the ^pdiac.
ruler of the world surrounded by the sea. 1 Varuna. Mesa Black.
(Aries)
In due course of time Sakuntala delivered a son. Kanva 2 Surya (Sun) 1< sabha (Taurus) Blood-colour.
did the rites pertaining to the birth of the child, and 3 Sahasrarhsu Mithuna (Gemini) Slightly redcolour.
named the child Sarvadamana. The child grew up to 4 Dhata Karkataka (Cancer) Yellow.
become years old, and Kanva realising that the
six
5 Tapana Sirhha (Leo) White.
further stay of Sakuntala and her son at the asrama 6 Savita Pure white.
Kanya (Virgo)
would stand in the way of the child's welfare and pro- 7 Gabhasti Tula (Libra) tawny colour.
gress sent the mother and the child to Hastinapura, 8 Ravi Vrscika (Scorpio) Yellow.
the capital of Dusyanta, attended by his disciples. 9 Parjanya Dhanu (Sagittarius) Parrot-colour.
Whn they reached Dusyanta 's palace and sent word to 10 Tvasta Makara (Capricorn) Snow-white.
him about their arrival he, pleading ignorance about 1 1 Mitra Kumbha (Aquarius) Smoky hue.
his marriage with Sakuntala, refused to receive her and 2
Mina (Pisces)
12 Visnu Blue.
the child. Dusyanta and Sakuntala hotly argued the
At last, when Sakuntala, with swelling
DVADASAKSA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B.
question.
emotions was about to leave the palace, a celestial voice Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 88) .
announced that Dusyanta had, in fact, married DVADASlVRATA. A fast ordained in accordance with
the Hindu religion to make an end of the sorrow and
Sakuntala, that Sarvadamana was his son and that he
(Sarvadamana) would become a great ruler under the misery in life. There is a history behind this fast or vow
name Bharata. (Adi Parva, Chapters 69-74) .
which is performed in the bright lunar fortnight in the
month of Phalguna (Mina) It is given below. .
about it and bring him if necessary is called 'duta'. DVAIDHlBHAVA. One of the six qualities, others being
From the external signs and symbols of the duta and Sandhi, Vigraha, Yana, Asana, and Sam.iraya. Sandhi
from words spoken by him the visavaidya understands is to make peace with the enemy. Vigraha is war. The
whether the person bitten by the snake would die or journey to battle is Yana. Asana is, not going for war.
survive. These signs and words of the 'duta' are called Dvaidhibhava is dividing his army into two, i.e. if the
1. This version of the episode is found in Mahnbharata. The poet Kalidasa has made variations, suitable to his work, the Abhi-
jiiana-Sakuntala. Some deviations from the Mahabharata story may be noticed in the works of some other poets also.
2. Different names of Adityas occur in different Purai.ias. The names given here are based on the Agni Purana.
DVAIPAYANA 266 DYUTIMAN II
army rose against the King, he should bring one party attained beatitude. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter
on his side and make the two parties fight with each 70, Stanza 7) .
other. SarhSiaya is to yield to the powerful. (Manu- (5) It was here that the pestle of iron, which proved
smrti, Chapter 7, Stanza 160). the cause of destruction of the Yadavas, came out of
DVAIPAYANA. A synonym of Vyasa. He who is born the stomach of Samba. (M.B. Mausala Parva, Chap-
an ter 1).
in island, i.e. Vyasa. (See under Vyasa).
DVAIPAYANAM. A lake in Kuruksetra. During the (6) After the death of Sri Krsna this city was swept
over by the sea. (M.B. Mausala Parva, Chapter 7,
battle of Bharata, Duryodhana ran away from the
Stanza 41).
battlefield and hid himself in this lake. (M.B. Salya
4) Modern view. According to the modern researchers
Parva, Chapter 80, Stanza 47) .
under Sri Krsna, and built a strong city in the western DVIMlDHA. A King of the Puru dynasty. He was the
islands. That beautiful city was called Dvaraka. Kusa- brother of Ajamldha and Purumidha. (Agni Purana,
sthall, is another name of this city. The beautiful Stanza 278).
mountain Raivataka stood as a fortress round the city DVIMURDHAN. A son of Hiranyaksa. Sambara,
which was so strongly built that it was not possible Sakuni, Dvimurdhan, Saiiku and Arya were the sons
even for the gods to enter it. Even women could fight of Hiranyaksa. (Agni Purana, Chapter 19).
sitting inside the forts. The fortress Raivataka was three DVITA. An ancient hermit. He was the son of Gau-
yojanas long. In each yojana three divisions of the tama. It is stated in Mahabharata, Salya Parva,
army were camped. In each yojana there were hundred Chapter 37, that by the curse of his brother he became
doors, with a strong army to guard each of them. a wolf and begot monkey, scorpion, etc.
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 14). DVIVIDA. A monkey. He was a warrior in the army of
2) Sri Krfna in Dvaraka. Dvaraka was the abode of Sri Sri Rama.
Krsna. It excelled even Amaravati in beauty. There DYAU (DYU). One of the Astavasus (eight Vasus) .
was an efficient council of the leaders of the Yadavas. For particulars see under Astavasus)
(
.
Dasarhi was the name of that council. Many Yadava DYU (DYAU). One of the Asia Vasus (eight Vasus).
leaders Sri Krsna, Balabhadra and other luminaries This Vasu has another name Apa. (For details see
attended the council. The royal palace was as lumino- under Astavasus) .
us as the Sun and the Moon. Dvaraka was built by DYUMAN. A King of the dynasty cfBhargava. (Bhaga-
Visvakarma. There were ditches on the four sides of vata, Skandha 9).
Dvaraka. There were four beautiful parks called DYUMATSENA I. A King. He was the father of
Nandana, Misraka Caitraratha and Vaibhraja. The Satyavan. He ruled over the Salva country. Saibya was
mountain Raivata acted as the eastern rampart of the his wife. By and by he lost his eye-sight. Then another
city. Three other mountains, Venumanda on the North, King conquered his country. Dyumatsena who lost
Sukaksa on the west and Latavesta on the south acted everything went to the forest with his wife Saibya and
as natural forts. On the east of the city there was a child, Satyavan. (For particulars of how Satyavan
beautiful lake. The city had fifty main gates to which married Savitrl and how Dyumatsena regained his lost
sharp machine rockets, big iron wheels etc. were fitted kingdom, see under Satyavan).
for protection. It had an area of 96 yojanas DYUMATSENA II. A King who fought with Sri Krsna.
(leagues). (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 38, Daksina- (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 38) .He used to attend
tya patha) .
the council of Yudhisthira. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chap-
ter 4) .
3 ) Other details. (
1 )
Arjuna visited Dvaraka in the DYUTAPARVA. A subsection of Sabha Parva, (Chapters
course of his pilgrimage. It was then and there that he
46 to 73), in the Mahabharata.
married Subhadra. (M.B. Adi Parva, 3 Chapters
from 217).
DYUTI. A goddess who protected Arjuna. (M.B.
Vana Parva, Chapter 37, Stanza 38)
(2) The King of Salva attacked Dvaraka. The Yadavas DYUTIMAN A
drove him back. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 15).
I.
King of the Madra country. Vijaya
the daughter of this King was the wife of Sahadeva, one
(3) Dvaraka is a city, procuring beatitude. There is a of the Pandavas. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 95,
bath known as Pindaraka which is pure and divine. Stanza 80).
(M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 82, Stanza 65). DYUTIMAN II. A King of the Salva country. He
It was at Pindaraka that Nrga, a chameleon
(4) gave his country to Rcika and attained heaven. (M.B,
DYUTIMAN III 267 EKAJATA
Sand Parva, Chapter 234, Stanza 33). EKADASATATTVA (S) . Five Jnanendriyas, five Kar-
DYUTIMAN. III. Son of the King Madirasva born mendriyas and mind constitute the Ekadasatattvas
in the Iksvaku dynasty. He was a mighty and bright (eleven tattvas) .
hero. The King Suvlra was the son of Dyutiman. EKADASATEJOGUNA (S) .
Sparia, Sarhkhya, Parinama,
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 2, Stanza 9) . Prthaktva,Samyoga, Vibhaga, Paratva, Aparatva,
DYUTIMAN IV. A hermit of the family of Bhrgu. A Vega, Rupa and Dravatva. (Tarkadlpika) are the
daughter named Laksmi and sons named Dhata and eleven tejogunas.
Vidhata were born to Bhrgu by his wife Khyati. Dhata EKADASI. The eleventh day after a new moon or full
and Vidhata married the daughters of Meru named moon day. The vrata observed on this day is called
Ayati and Niyati. Prana and Mrkandu were born to the Ekadasi vrata. King Ambarlsa observed very
the couple. Markandeya was born from Mrkandu and strictlyand continuously the Ekadasi Vrata to obtain
Vedasiras from Markandeya. A son named Dyutiman the status of Indra. (See under Ambarlsa) (Navama .
was born to Prana and Ra.japa.la was born to Dyuti- Skandha, Bhagavata) This vrata would fetch food
.
man. The family of Bhrgu owes its expansion to Raja- for the hungry and salvation for those who are in
pala. (Visnu Purana, Arnsa I, Chapter 10). search of it. (Agni Purana) The method of observing
.
E. (<?,)
This sound means 'Devi'.
. Those who observe the Ekadasi vrata should be on a
EDI. Afollower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 13, Chapter 46, regulated diet excluding meat and avoid sexual acts
Salya Parva) . on the Dasami day, the day preceding Ekadasi. On
EKACAKRA. A village where the Pandavas lived for both the Ekadasi days in a month one should not take
some time during their exile. Bhinia killed Baka during any food at all. The period which combines Ekadasi
their stay in a brahmin-house in the village. (See with DvadasI (the twelfth day) is called Harivasara
under Baka) . because of the presence of Visnu at that time. That
EKACAKRA. A famous demon born to Kagyapapraja- is a good time for doing sacred yajnas. That day where
pati of his wife Danu. Demons Sarhbara, Vipracitti, there is only a small portion of Ekadasi and the rest
Namuci, Puloma, Visruta, Durjaya, Ayassiras, Asvasi- DvadasI is the best day for yajnas. Trayodagl (the
ras, Ketu, Vrsaparva, ASvagrlva, Virupaksa, Nikumbha, thirteenth day) is good for breaking- the fast. The day
Kapata and Ekapat are brothers of Ekacakra and are which merges DvadasI into Trayodasi is the best day
equally famous. (Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.) . for breaking the fast. Do not observe the Vrata on a
EKACANDRA. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 30, day which combines Dasami with Ekadasi. Hell is the
Chapter 46, Salya Parva) . result if one does so.
EKACUDA. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 5, Chap- Completely abstaining from food on the Ekudas'I day
ter 46, Salya Parva) .
you should take food on the DvadaSi day. As you take
EKADASADHIPATIS. Eleven adhipatis. For Devas the your food you should pray like this: "Bhunksyeharh
adhipati (ruling power) is Indra; for the stars, Candra; Pundarlkaksa saranam me bhavacyuta". (Oh, Punda-
for Prajapatis, Daksa; for wealth and Yaksaraksas, rikaksa, I am going to break my fast. Oh, Bhagavan,
Kubera; for men Manu; for rsis, Vasistha; for Graha- let you be my heaven). If an Ekadasi comes on a
jyotis, the
Sun; for exudations, Varuna; for rivers, the Puyarh Pusya day in the bright half of the month that
Ocean; for Bhutaganas, Siva; and for the birds, Garuda. day should on any account be observed. That day would
EKADASAMANUSADHARMA. The eleven dharmas give the observer unlimited good result and that
of men are: Svadhyaya, Brahmacarya, Dana, Yajna, Ekadasi is qualified as Papanasim (destroyer of all
free from Krpanatva, Daya, Ahirhsa, Ksama, Jitendri- evils) When Ekadasi and DvadasI happen to combine
.
yatva, Sauca and Daiva Bhakti. (Tarkadlpika) . on a Tiruvonam (Sravana) day the Ekadasi is qualified
EKADAS ASA&KARAVAR]vrA (S) (1) Karana (one . as Vijaya. That day gives prosperity to devotees. It is
born to a Vaisya of a Sudra woman) (2) Ambastha . also called Vijaya if an Ekadas I comes in the month
(one born to a brahmin of a Vaisya woman). (3) of Phalguna (March) on a Puyarii (Pusya) day. The
Ugra (one born to a Ksatriya of a Sudra woman). (4) wise extol this day as one promising crores of good effects.
Magadha (one born to a Vaisya of a Ksatriya woman). On the Ekadas I day you should do Visnu Puja which
(5) Mahisya (one born to a Ksatriya of a Vaisya is productive of universal happiness. He who does so
woman) (6) Ksatta (one born to a Sudra of a Ksatriya
. will acquire children and wealth in this world and
woman) (7) Suta (one born to a Ksatriya of a brahmin
. attain Visnuloka on death. (Chapter 178, Agni
woman). (8) Vaidehaka (one born to a Vats' ya of a Purana)
brahmin woman ) (9) Rathakara ( one born to a Mahi-
. EKADASENDRIYA (S) Srotra,
.
Tvak, Caksus, Jihva,
sya of a Karana woman) (10). Paras ava (one born to a Ghrana, Vak, Pani, Pada, Payu (anus) Upastha and
brahmin of a Sudra woman) (11) Candala (one born . mind arethe eleven sense-organs.
to a Sudra of a brahmin woman) (See under Purh, Put, . EKAHAMSATlRTHA. An ancient holy place of north
Putra) . India. If a man bathes in a sacred pond he will get
EKADASAPUJASTHANA(S). The eleven pujasthanas the benefit of giving away as charity a thousand
are Surya, Agni, Vipra, Gau, Vaisnava, Akasa, Vayu, cows.
Jala,Bhumi, Atma and Sarvabhutas. (Tarkadlpika). (Sloka 20, Chapter 83, Vana Parva) .
EKADASARUDRAS. Ajaikapat, Ahirbudhnya, Virupa- A EKAJATA. demoness of the castle of Ravana. This
ksa, Suresvara, Jayanta, Bahurupa, Aparajita, Savitra, demoness talked very enticingly to coax Slta to
Tryarhbaka, Vaivasvata and Hara are the eleven surrender herself to Ravana. (Sarga 23, Valmlki Rama-
Rudras. (Visnu Purana, Chapter 15, Amia 1) yana, Sundara Kanda)
1
.
EKAJATA. A warrior of Skandadeva. (Sloka 53, Chap- seated on the left side of Paramesvara and instantly his
EK.AKSA I. A demon
to Kasyapaprajapati of his
born mind that one eye of Vaisravana was changed into
wife Danu. (Sloka Chapter 65, Adi Parva, M.B.)
29, . pingala colour. (See under Kubera) .
EKAKSA II. A soldier of Skandadeva. (Sloka 58, Chapter EKARATRATlRTHA. A sacred place. If one stays at
45, Salya Parva, M.B.) . this place righteously for one day one would attain
EKAKSARAKOSA. Each and every letter has got a Brahmaloka. (Sloka 182, Chapter 83. Vana Parva,
separate meaning. The dictionary describing this M.B.).
.meaning is known as Ekaksarakos'a. (Chapter 348, EKASR&GA. One of the Saptapitrs. Vairaja, Agnis-
Agni Purana) .
Soinapa, Ekasrriga, Caturvcda
vatta, Garhapati,
and
EKALAVYA I. Son of Hiranyadhanus, a King of the Kala are the seven pitrs. All these seven stayed in
foresters. He went to Drona.ca.rya to learn archery. Brahmasabha worshipping him. (Slokas 47 and 48,
Dronacarya refused to accept him as a disciple because Chapter 11, Sabha Parva) .
he was a Sudra. Undaunted he went to the forests, EKASRTA. See under Vararuci.
made a replica of the preceptor in clay and standing
before it started practising archery. Soon he became a EKATA.
matchless archer. 1
)
General information. An ancient sage. He was the
Some time later the Pandavas went to the forests for son of the Maharsi Gautama. He had two brothers,
hunting. One of the hunting dogs wandering saw Dvita and Trita.
Ekalavya and started barking. Ekalavya sent seven 2) How Ekata became a wolf by a curse. There is a story
arrows to its mouth and kept it open. When the dog of how Ekata and Dvita duped Trita in the Maha-
returned to Arjuna he was dumbfounded at the skill bharata. When Gautama died Trita became the chief of
of the archer and when he came to know the archer the three. Dvita and Ekata did not like this. Once all
was an unknown disciple of Drona his disappointment the three were passing by a forest with a herd of cows for
knew no bounds. Drona had once declared that Arjuna a yaga. Trita was walking ahead and the other two were
was the best and topmost of his disciples. Arjuna went
following him with the cows. At a strategic point on the
and complained to Dronacarya. Dronacarya called
way the brothers carried away the cows by a separate
Ekalavya to his side and asked him to give him as route without the knowledge of Trita. When Trita
'Gurudaksina' (fee to the preceptor) his right-hand
came to know of the loss he was greatly distressed. On
thumb. Without the least hesitation Ekalavya offered
reaching the shores of the river Sarasvati, he was frigh-
his thumb to the guru and from that day onwards his
tened by a wolf and running to escape from the animal
skill faded and he became inferior to Arjuna. ( Chapter
fell He performed a yaga from
into a dilapidated well.
132, Adi Parva). Ekalavya was killed by Sri Krsna. where he lay. Assuming a creeper inside the well to be
(Sloka 77, Chapter 48, Udyoga Parva, M.B.). Somalata, Trita recited the Rks and the devas responded
A son of Ekalavya seized the sacrificial horse of Arjuna to his prayer. Devas like Brhaspati graciously appeared
and was killed by Arjuna (Chapter 83, Asvamedhika before him and asked him to demand a boon from
Parva, M.B.). them. Trita replied that his desire was to worship the
EKALAVYA II. A King who was a rebirth ofanasura, gods standing on the waves of the river Sarasvati.
Krodhavas'a. He participated in the great war on the Accordingly the river was made to flow that way and
side of the Pandavas. (Chapter 4, Udyoga Parva, standing on the waves Trita worshipped the gods. After
M.B.) . that he went home and cursed his brothers and made
EKANAisIGA. A daughter of Yasoda and hence a sister Ekata and Dvita into wolves.
of Sri Krsna. It was because of her that Krsna could 3) Other details.
slay Karhsa. (Chapter 38, Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
much banked on by the people of
Ekata was a sage
i)
EKAPADA. A country of ancient Bharata. The King western Bharata. (Sloka 31, Chapter 208, Sariti Parva) .
and the people of this country came to the Rajasuya ii) Ekata attended a yajfia conducted by Uparicaravasu
of Yudhisthira but were prevented from entering inside
(Chapter 336, Santi Parva) .
because of the uncontrollable crowd inside. ( Sloka 1 7, Ekata accompanied by Dvita and Trita once went
iii)
Chapter 51, Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
to Svetadvlpa to visit Narayana. (Sloka 12, Chapter
EKAPARKfA. Sister of
Durga. Ekaparna, Ekapa{ala 39, Santi Parva) .
and Aparna were the three daughters of Himavan born iv) Ekata and his two brothers were among the sages
of his wife Mena. Ekaparna ate only one leaf and who Bhlsma while he was lying on his bed of
visited
Ekapatala ate a bunch of leaves. Aparna did not eat arrows. (Sloka 7, Chapter 26, Anusasana Parva, M.B.)
even a leaf. Ekaparna was married to a sage called v) All these three sages lived on the west coast as Rtviks
Devala and Ekapatala to a sage called Jaigisavya. of Varuna. (Chapter 15, Anusasana Parva, M.B.) .
EKAPAT II. A synonym of Bhagavan Visnu. (Sloka EKATVACA. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 24,
95, Chapter 149, Anusasana Parva, M.B.) .
Chapter 46, Salya Parva) .
EKAPI&GA (EKAPI&GALA) Another name of Vaisra- . EKAVALl. Wife of Ekavlra, founder of the Hehaya
vana. Once Vaisravana looked jealously at Parvatl dynasty. (For details see under Ekavlra) .
EKAVlRA 269 ELI AND PUCCA
EKAVlRA 1
(HEHAYA). A founder of the Hehaya flowery forest was soon arrested by the sight of a
line of kings. sweet smelling lotus with a hundred petals blooming in
1) Genealogy. Descending from Visnu: Atri
in order the river. By the side of the lotus was standing a
beautiful damsel weeping. The prince went to her and
Gandra Budha PururavasAyus Yayati Yadu
asked her the reason for her weeping. After great per-
Sahasrajit- --Satajit Ekavlra (Hehaya) .
MahalaksmI came to Earth taking the shape of a mare King constructed big ponds wjth lotuses in them for
her recreation. Yet she used to go to other ponds also
and lived in a forest situated at a point where the rivers
Kalindl and Tamasa meet and where once Suryapatni
m search oi lotuses "
King, Ekavlra. It was because he was born of a horse ELAPUTRA. A serpent born to Kasyapa of his wife
that he got the names, Hehaya and Haihaya. (Skandha Kadru. This serpent was very intelligent. Once there
6, Devi Bhagavata) . arose a dispute between Vinata and Kadru over the
colour of the of the horse of Indra, Uccaihsravas.
tail
3) How Ekavira came to the palace. It was at this time that
Satajit, son of the grandson of Yayati was doing
Kadru argued that there were black hairs in the tail
while Vinata held there were none. Really there were
penance to obtain a son. He was also doing penance
in the forest situated at a point where the rivers Kalindl n black hairs and Kadru to win the argument wanted
and Tamasa meet. One night a Vidyadhara named her sons to g and han S on the hair s to create a black
colour. The serpents like Vasuki and others refused to
Campaka came with a Vidyadharl named Madalasa
and seeing the infant lying helpless in the forest took do so and Kadru then cursed them saying that they
it to Devaloka. Indra recognised it as the child born to
would all be burnt to death at the Sarpasatra of
Visnu and Laksmi on earth while they were living as Janamejaya. To take measures to get free from this
horse and mare and so the Vidyadhara put it back on curse a meeting of the serpents under the leadership of
earth in the same place as before. Immediately Laksmi- Sesa and Vasuki was held and in that assembly Ela-
Narayanas appeared before Satajit doing penance there putra made a stirring speech. (Chapter 38, Adi Parva,
and asking him to take care of a child lying helpless in M.B.) .
another side of the forest disappeared. Immensely ELI AND PUCCA. (Eli=rat, Pucca=Cat) .
pleased at this Satajit took the child to his palace and The story of the cat and the rat described by the poet
brought him forth as his own
son giving the child the
Kuftjan Nambiar is from Kathasaritsagara. The story
name Ekavira. When became a prince, Satajit
the boy in original
is the following.
crowned Ekavira King and went to the forest with his Oncethere lived on a big banyan tree near the city of
queen and after doing penance there for sometime Vidisa a mongoose, an owl, a cat and a rat. The mon-
attained Visnuloka. (Skandha 6, Devi Bhagavata). goose and the rat lived in two separate hollows at the
4) Ekavira marries Ekavali. Once Prince Ekavlra . foot of the tree, the cat in a cavity in the centre of the
accompanied by the son of the minister went for a plea- tree and the owl on the branches at the top. Of these
sure trip to the banks of the river Ganga. It was spring the rat could be eaten by all the other three and the cat
and the prince wandering about enjoying the sight of a could kill all the rest. The rat and the mongoose afraid
i. The genealogy of Ekavira is stated differently indifferent Puranas. Devi Bhagavata states that Ekavira is the son ofTurvasu,
son of Yayati and that he is the father of Kartaviiyarjuna. It is not correct. The genealogy chronicled here is based on Agni and Visnu
Puranas. According to that Yadu, son of Yayati is the father of the grandfather of Ekavira: Yadu Sahasrajit Satajit -Hehaya (Ekavira).
Descending from Ekavira Dharraa Kuni Bhadrasena Dhanaka Krtavlra Kartavirvarjuna. From the grandson of Kartavlryarjuna,
Vrsrii, starts the Vrsi.ii dynasty.
ELLU 270 GADA I
of the cat did stir out only during night time and the (16) Seven Maruts Avaha, Samvaha, Pravaha, Ud- :
cat moved about day and night afraid of none wishing vaha, Vivaha, Parivaha and Paravaha.
to catch hold of the rat and eat it. Their common place (17) Seven Vargas King, Minister, Country, fort,:
of activity was a rice-field nearby. treasury, army and strength of friends and relatives.
Once a forester laid a net to catch the cat and the cat (18) Seven colours :
White, black, red, green, yellow,
fell into the trap and lay there hanging inside the net. blue and violet.
The rat coming that way saw the plight of the cat and
(19) Seven forests :
Kamyaka, Aditi, Vyasa, Phalki,
jumped with joy. But soon the owl and the mongoose Surya, Madhu and Slta.
came to the spot and seeing their enemy, the cat, impri- (20) Seven dosas (defects) Laziness, arrogance, igno- :
soned rushed to catch hold of the rat. The rat then did rance, prolligacy, Hauteur, pride and selfishness.
a very clever thing. It went and tore open the net (21) Seven vices Hunting, dice, womanising, drinking
:
imprisoning the cat and when the cat jumped out of the squandering, harshness of speech and cruelty.
net the owl and the mongoose ran away and disappear- (22; Seven seas Lavana, Iksu, Sura, Sarpis, Dadhi,
:
ed. The rat went to its hole. This is a story to Ksira and Suddhodaka.
demonstrate the fact that with a change in the situation (23) Seven notes Sadja, Rsabha, Gandhara, Madh-
:
an enemy may turn out to be a friend. (Taranga 7, yama, Pancama, Dhaivata and Nisada.
Madanamaiicukalarhbaka, Kathasaritsagara) .
ERAKA. A serpent born in the family of the Kauravas.
ELLU. An oil seed.
(Sesame) Ellu originated from . This serpent was burnt to death at the Sarpasatra of
the body of Kasyapa. Because Ellu is born of the body Janamejaya (Sloka 16, Chapter 57, Adi Parva).
.
of KaSyapa, King of Rsis, it is considered as divine to ETA&A. A sage who is greatly extolled in the Rgveda.
offer Ellu to anybody. '(Sloka 10, Chapter 66, Anusa- The son of King Svasa fought with this sage and it was
sana Parva) .
Indra who saved Etasa then. Anuvaka
(Sukta 62, 11,
ELU.
'
This word in Malayalam means 'Seven'. Mandala 1, Rgveda.).
( 1) The seven qualities which would enhance prosperity ETASA. One of the horses of the Sun. (Sukta 122,
are following: Dhairya (courage) Sama (forbea-
the , Anuvaka 18, Mandala 1, Rgveda).
rance) Dama (control of the sense) Sucitva (cleanli-
,
,
F
ness) Daya (compassion) , Mrduvak (geniality of
,
There are no words beginning with F. The letter corres-
speech) and Ahimsa (not giving injury to your friends).
ponding to F in Indian languages is Ph (<jj) So all .
(2) The seven divisions of Kerala are Venaf, Pulinat, words beginning with this sound come under the
Karkanaf, Citana{, Kuttanat, Kutanaf and Malaya- letter P.
manaf. G
(3) The seven Cittasalyas are Daylight Candra, Woman G (jj) The letter G means both Gandharva and Vinayaka
past the prime of life, a pond without lotuses, a lovely (Agni Purana, Chapter 348) .
person without learning, a lord greedy of wealth, a GABH ASTIMAN. An island. Once the valiant Sahasra-
virtuous but poor man and a cruel royal attendant. bahu conquered and subjugated it. (M. B. Sabha
(4) Seven Karmas :
Bravery, skill, courage, resource- Parva, Chapter 38) .
fulness,non-withdrawal from war, magnanimity and GADA. A weapon. An asura called Gada was born to
commanding power. Kasyapaprajapati by his wife Did. Visnu killed Gada,
(5) Seven solemnities Mammodisa, Muron, Kurbana, : and Visvakarman made a weapon with his bone. Since
Kumbasara, Vivaha, Pa{tatva and Tailabhiseka of the the weapon was made from Gada's bone it came to be
sick. known as Gada. (Agni Purana, Chapter 114).
(6) Seven Ciranjivis (People who never die) As vat- : GADA I. A brother (Yadava) of Balabhadrarama.
thama, Bali, Vyasa, Hanuman, Vibhlsana, Krpa and 1
)
General. Vasudeva had, besides Devaki, seven wives
Paras urama. called Rohim, Bhadra, Malini, Madira, Ila, Rocana
(7) Jivavasthas Ajnana, Avarana, Viksepa, Paroksa-
: and Pauravl, and out of the seven Rohim had six sons
jnana, Aparoksajnana, Anarthanivrtti and Ananda- called Balabhadrarama, Gada, Sarana, Durdama,
prapti. Vikala and Krta. (Bhagavata, Navama Skandha).
(8) Seven islands
Jambudvlpa, Plaksadvipa, Puskara-
:
2) Other details.
dvipa, Krauncadvipa, Sakadvlpa, Salmaladvipa, and (1 Gada was present at the svayamvara of Draupadl.
)
called Gaya conducted at Gaya an Aivamedha, a Nara- The story about Indradyumna,
GAJENDRAMOKSAM.
medha (yajna at which man is offered as sacrifice) and the Pandyan King being transformed into an elephant
a Mahamedha and Mahavisnu acted as gate-keeper of due to the curse of Agastya and his attaining heaven.
Gaya. As Visnu stood guard there holding the gada (See under Indradyumna) .
so angry that he hurled his gada (club) ninetynine There was once a King called Aruna in the family of
times at Madhurapuri from his capital, Girivraja. The Mandhata. Aruna got a son and he was named Satya-
vrata. (It was this Satyavrata who later became the well
spot where the gada finally fell came to be called Gada-
vasana in course of time. (M. B. Sabha Parva, Chapter famed Trisariku) When Satyavrata was a youngster
.
by that time the guest had disappeared. But Vi.^va- circling the pit his wives wept loudly. Since her hus-
mitra remained there with the rice for hundred years band Arjuna was away from the palace Subhadra her-
till Dharmadeva returned. All these years Galava looked self ran to the place from where she heard the cries.
after Visvamitra's comforts. Visvamitra was immensely When they saw Subhadrfi they begged for 'Marigalya-
pleased with Galava and allowed him to go away free bhiksa' (a boon to live with one's husband) Subhadra .
without any gurudaksina when his education was over. agreed to give them that. Then she heard their tory
Galava wanted to give some daksina but Visvamitra in full and only then did she realise that she had under-
refused to accept it. Galava insisted on giving and then taken to do the impossible. Yet, to help Subhadra,
Visvamitra asked him to give whatever he liked but Arjuna agreed to piotcct Cjtrasena. When Sri Krsna
Galava wanted the Daksina to be named. Disgusted attacked Citrasena Arjuna defended. The fight then
with this stubbornness Visvamitra said "Go and get me ensued between Arjuna and Krsna. Both had very
eight hundred horses each with one of its ears black". powerful and divine weapons and the world stood on
Galava was shocked to hear the demand and greatly the verge of a collapse by their fight. Then Subhadra.
worried roamed about in search of horses of the type did a brave thing. She stood between the two and
specified. Garuda taking pity on his sad plight took requested for a cease-fire. Then Sri Krsna asked Citra-
him to the palace of Yayati. Hearing the story of sena to bow down and touch the feet of Galava. Galava
Galava Yayati sent his daughter Madhavi with Galava pardoned him. (Padma Purana).
saying that if she was given in marriage to any king he 5) Tapodana. Galava once gave Yayati one eighth
would give him the eight hundred horses of the type portion of the goodness accrued to him by his long
he required. penance. ( See Yayati for details).
Galava took Madhavi to Haryaxva, a King of the 6) Galava gets a horse. Patalaketu, a demon, used to
Iksvaku line of Kings. HaryaSva was doing penance give trouble to Galava daily while he used to do
at that time to obtain a child. Galava said that Har- penance. Once this demon sent a deep hot breath to
the sky and then a horse fell from the sky. Soon an
yasva would get a son of Madhavi and he should,
therefore, accept Madhavi and give him in return eight
unknown voice from air said, "This is a very strong
hundred horses each with one ear black. Haryaiva was horse and it would travel many a yojana in an hour."
amenable to the terms but the only difficulty was that Galava took that horse and gave it to Rtadhvaja.
he had only two hundred horses of the type specified. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 59).
Finding this difficulty Madhavi said "Oh, Galava 7) Other details regarding Galava.
please do not worry on that account. I have a boon from (i) He was an intimate friend of King Pratlpa. (Sloka
a brahmavadi sage that I would remain a maiden 13, Chapter 20, Harivarhsa).
even after delivery. So give me in marriage to this (ii) He was a shining member of the court of Yudhi-
King and get two hundred horses. After giving birth sthira. (Sloka 15, Chapter 4, Sabha Parva).
to a son to this King take me to another King and (iii) He shone in the court of Indra. (Sloka 10, Chap-
get two hundred horses from him and then to another and ter 7, Sabha Parva) .
thus by giving me to four Kings you can get the eight (iv) He conducted a discussion with Narada on the
hundred horses you require." true nature of real prosperity. (Sloka 5, Chapter 287,
Sand Parva).
Galava liked plan and so when Madhavi gave
this
birth to a son he took her to Divodasa, Raja, of Kasi. (v) On another occasion he spoke to Dharmaputra on
the of the universe. 52, Chapter
When a son was born to him Galava took her to Us Inara, glory (Sloka 18,
Anuiasana Parva)
King of Bhoja. Galava thus got six hundred horses but
.
there was nobody else to give him the remaining two (vi) He swore before God to prove his innocence in
the lotus-theft involving Agastya.
hundred. When Galava was contemplating as to what (Sloka 37, Chapter
he should do next Garuda came to his rescue. He 94, Anusasana Parva) .
advised Galava to give six hundred horses and Madhavi (vii)Srrigava who married Vrddhakanya was a son of
in lieu of the remaining two hundred horses to Visva-
Galava! (Sloka 14, Chapter 52, Salya Parva). For
mitra. Galava gave Visvamitra the horses and Madhavi
details see under Visvakarma.
and pleased with the gurudaksina Visvamitra GAM. Music.
(Agni Purana, Chapter 348) .
blessed Galava. Visvamitra got a son named Astaka GANA. A female attendant of Skanda. (Salya Parva,
of Madhavi. (See under As^aka). Chapter 46, Verse 3).
4) Galava and Cilrasena. Galava was once having his even-
GA1VAM. An army division. Three Gulmas form one
ing prayers in the river when the spittings from the mouth
Ganam. (See Aksauhim).
of Citrasena who was travelling by air above fell on GA^APATI.
the puja materials of Galava. Galava went and com- 1) Genealogy. A son of Siva with face like that of an
plained to Sri Krsna of this and Krsna in haste pro- elephant. As Siva has appointed this son as chief of
mised to bring before Galava the head of Citrasena the ganas (attendants) he is called Ganapati.
before the sun set. Narada who heard this went and 2) His birth. While Siva and Parvati assumed he form I
informed Citrasena of Krsna's vow. Citrasena was of monkeys and enjoyed themselves in the forest Parvati
frightened to death. But Narada asked him not to lose got pregnant, and Siva took the semen from the womb
hope and advised Sandhya and Vail, wives of Citra- and gave to Vayu (wind God.) Vayu deposited it in
it
sena, to approach Subhadra, sister of Krsna, for pro- the womb of Anjana, who delivered a son named Hanu-
tection. Both of them went to Subhadra and made a man. Siva assumed the form of an elephant (tusker)
GA1VAPATI 273 GAI^DAKI (GAIVDAKA)
and Parvati that of a she-elephant. Parvati delivered a such worship would be duly completed, Indians believe.
son in the form of an elephant. That son was named In support of that belief the following story from the
Ganapati. (Uttara Ramayana) . 6th taraiiga of Lavanakalambakam, Kathasaritsagara
3 ) His tusk broken. Once Para?' urama arrived at Kailasa may be quoted.
to meet Siva. At that time Siva was asleep. So Gana- The Devas decided to appoint Subrahmanya as chief
pati did not allow him to get in. A duel broke out of the army to kill Tarakasura. When Indra took up
between them. In that duel one of Ganapati's tusks the pot of water purified by mantras to anoint Subrah-
was broken. ( Padma Pur ana) . manya's head with it, his hands became benumbed, and
turned crow. An he stood aghast. Then Siva said that any action begun
4) Ganapati into exceptionally hot
summer set in once in South India. The
whole land without Ganapati puja would meet with such obstacles.
became parched. So Agastya went to Siva and request- At once Indra worshipped Ganapati and his hands
ed for some holy water, and the Lord put Kaverl who recovered from the paralysed condition. And, Subrah-
was worshipping him just then, in the Kamanclalu manya was duly anointed with the holy water.
(something like a teapot which sannyasins carry with 8) Ganapati wrote the Mahabharata. After the death of
them) of Agastya and sent him back. Indra, who did the Kauravas and the Panda vas sage Vyasa entered
not relish this action of Siva, asked Ganapati to some again into meditation. But, the whole story of the
how or other upset Agastya's Kamandalu of holy water, Bharata reflected in the mirror of his mind. He wanted
and Ganapati, in the guise of a crow went and sat on to translate the story into a great poem and
requested
the brink of the Kamandalu and thus upset it. Agastya Brahma to suggest a suitable person to write the story
and the crow quarrelled with each other. Then did the on his dictation, and Brahma suggested Ganapati's
crow assume its original form as Ganapati and blessed name. Then Vyasa thought about Ganapati and he
Agastya. Moreover, Ganapati filled Agastya's Kaman- appeared before the sage. But, Ganapati did not appre-
dalu with holy water, which the latter distributed ciate the idea of serving as Vyasa's scribe. So he
stipu-
in South India, and that the present lated a condition that he would write down the poem
among d^btees is
vehicle (peacock) and set out for a tour round the belly of Ganapati contains in it the whole universe.
world. Ganapati did nothing of the sort. But after a 1 ) Synonyms of Ganapati.
little time he went round his parents, viz., Siva and Vinayako vighnarajo
Parvati. Asked for an explanation about his action dvaimatura-ganadhipah /
Ganapati replied that since the whole universe existed apyekadanto herarhbo
in Siva and Parvati, going around them tantamrmnted larhbodaragajananah. (Amarakos'a) .
to touring round the world. Pleased at this reply his (Vinayaka, Vighnaraja, Dvaimatura, Ganadhipa, Eka-
parents got Ganapati married first. danta, Heramba, Lambodara, Gajanana).
7) Vig/mesvaratvam. (Power to remove all obstacles). GAiypA. A dasi, who served the saptarsis. (Anusasana
Ganapati is called Vighnewara because he is the god Parva, Chapter 93) .
who removes all obstacles from the paths of men or GAIVDAKAM. A particular locality on the banks of
creates them. Gandaki. Bhimasena once conquered this place.
river
Ganapati has the power to get anything done without (Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 15).
any obstructions as also the power to put obstacles in GAIVDAKAIVPU, A Yaksa of the assembly of Kubera.
the path of anything being got done. Therefore, the (MiB. Sabha Parva, Chapter 10).
custom came into vogue of worshipping Ganapati at the GAJVPAKI (GAYDAKA). A river in jfthern India
very commencement of any action for its completion which falls into the
Ganga.
vithout any hitch or hindrance. Actions begun with 2) Origin. There arose an argum .it between the
GANDHAKALI 274 GANDHARl
Devas and the asuras about the Amrtam (nectar) got be able to climb this mountain. (Vana Parva, Chapter
from the churning of Ksirabdhi (the milk ocean) and 140, Verse 22).
Mahavisnu appeared in the formofMohini and enti- (8) There is the Badari tree and under it there is an
ced the a^'jras away from the subject and gave the a^rama of Naranarayanas on the heights of this moun-
nectar to the Devas. Attracted by the great beauty of tain, and Yaksas stay there always. (Vana Parva,
MohinI, Siva made love to her, and the sweet produced Chapter 141, Verse 22).
at the time of their embrace flowed as river Gandaki (9) One; the Panda vas, with the aid of Ghatotkaca
through the earth. (Skandha Purana, Asura Khanda). mounted this mountain. (Vana Parva, Chapter
3) // became a holy river. While the worms on the banks 145).
of Gandaki were once collecting soil they fell into the (10) It was here, at this mountain that Bhlnia killed
river, and all at once they attained salvation, the reason Maniman, a friend of Kuber.a. (Vana Parva, Chapter
being that the water in the river had been formed by 160,' Verse 76).
the sweet of Visnu and Siva. And, from that day on- (11)Kubera, who was driven out of Lanka stayed at
wards people began worshipping Gandaki as a holy thismountain during the initial periods. (Vana Parva,
river. (Skandha Purana, Asura Khanda) .
Chapter 275, Verse 33) .
Hiranvati and Hiranyavati. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter Dhrtarastra. (Sloka 11, Chapter 111, Adi Parva) .
Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 48) . dhara. This land extended from the river Sindhu to
GANDHAMADANA I. A monkey, who had been help- Kabul. Gandhari was the daughter of Subala. (Chap-
ter 111, Adi Parva).
Rama, was the son of Kubera. (Valmiki
ful to Sri
Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Canto 17, Verse 11). This 2) Marriage. Gandhari became a devotee of Siva even
from her childhood. Siva became pleased with her and
monkey usually stayed on Mount Gandhamadana.
blessed her saying that she would bear a hundred sons.
During the Rama-Ravana war he led a contingent of
Bhisma came to know of this and he planned to get her
monkeys. (Vana Parva, Chapter 283, Verse 5).
married to Dhrtarastra. One day he sent a messenger
GANDHAMADANA II. A Raksasa King, who stays in to Subala making a proposal. Subala knew that Dhr-
Kubera's assembly :
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 10) tarastra was born blind but considering his lineage and
.
GANDHAMADANA (M). A mountain famed in the the powerful alliance it would make, consented to the
Puranas and lying to the east of the Himalayas. (Bha- then
proposal of Bhisma. Sakuni, brother of Gandhari,
gavata, Pancama Skandha). The puranic importance of by the order of his father took Gandhari to Hastina-
the mountain may be summarised as follows
pura and Dhrtarastra accepted her as his wife. Gan-
:
and one jars of ghee. In due time the jars broke and standing on shores of the river the great warriors
the
a hundred sons and a daughter came out of the jars. Kama and Duryodhana and others. By the yogic power
The daughter was named Dufiala. For their name see of Vyasa even the blind Dhrtarastra could get the vision.
'Kauravas'. Dhrtarastra got another son named Yuyu- Very soon the vision faded and the Pandavas returned
tsu. (Chapters 115 and 116, Adi Parva). to Hastinapura.
Two where
4) Gandhari faints. When Saiijaya reported about the days after, fire broke out in the forest
death of Kama at the battle both Dhrtarastra and Dhrtarastra was staying. Dhrtarastra, Kunti and
Gandhari fainted. (Sloka 55, Chapter 96, Kama Gandhari were burnt to death in that fire. (Chapter 32,
Parva ) . Asramavasika Parva).
When the obsequi-
5) Gandhari starts to curse the Pandavas. the battle 9) After the death. Dharmaputra performed
was over the sons of Gandhari and their followers were es of those who died in the wild fire (Asramavasika
killed. Dhrtarastra suggested that the Pandavas should Parva, Chapter 30) the mortal bodies the souls of
.
Leaving
visit Gandhari and pay homage to her. The Pandavas, Dhrtarastra and Gandhari entered Kuberaloka. (Sloka
therefore, went and stood before Gandhari very res- 14, Chapter 5, Svargarohana Parva) .
pectfully. Vengeance boiled in her heart and her body 10) Synonyms of Gandhari. The following words
have
shivered. Gandhari was about to curse the Pandavas been used in the Mahabharata to denote Gandhari :
became calm on hearing these words and she admitted GANDHARVA I. Gandharvas are sons born to the
that the end of the Kuru dynasty came because of the famous Kasyapaprajapati of his wife, Aristha (Agni
mistakes of Duryodhana, Sakuni, Kama and Dussa- Purana, Chapter 19). Both belonged to the race of
sana. She, thereafter, treated the Pandavas as her own the Devas.
sons. (Chapter 14, Strl Parva, M.B.). GANDHARVA II. A King born in the dynasty of
6) Dharmaputra' s foot-nails become blue. Following the Janamejaya. (Bhagavata, Navama Skandha) .
instructions of Dhrtarastra, the Pandavas, approached GANDHARVA. A marriage settled by the boy and the
and bowed before Gandhari. She covered her face girl of their own accord.
A love marriage. There are
with a cloth and wept, tears rolling down her cheeks. six different kinds of marriage: Gandharva, Arsa,
When Dharmaputra bent to touch her feet the latter Prajapatya, Raksasa, Asura and Paisaca. (See under
saw through the veil on her face the foot-nails of Vivaha) .
Dharmaputra. A few drops of the lachrymal water fell GANDHARVANAGARA. Vyasa has compared munis
on the foot-nails of Dharmaputra making them turn disappearing from sight to the fading out of Gandharva
blue instantly. (Chapter 15, Strl Parva) .
nagara.
7) Gandhari curses Krsna. At the end of the battle the "After having thus spoken to the Kurus, and while
aggrieved Gandhari went to Kuruksetra together with they were looking on, the band of sages disappeared
Krsna and other relatives. Seeing mighty Kings on the in a trice like the fading out of Gandharvanagara."
Kaurava side lying dead like huge trees lying truncated (Adi Parva, Chapter 126, Verses 35 and 36) .
Gandhari burst into tears. She knew that Sri Krsna What is this Gandharvanagara The following descrip-
?
was at the root of all this. Embittered she looked at tion occurs in Hindi Sabdasagara. "Owing to different
Krsna and cursed him. "Ho, Krsna, thirtysix years optical illusions (sight) of man, villages and cities may
from this day you will lose your sons, ministers, friends appear to exist in the sky and also on seas, rivers, etc.
and relatives. You will become a lone walker in the When during summer the air on the upper strata of
and be killed by trickery."
forests deserts, seas etc. gets heated, expanded, and rises up,
Itwas because of this curse that the Yadava tribe perish- the light passing through it becomes multi-coloured and
gives reflections in the sky in the form of village parts
ed and Krsna was struck by the arrow of a hunter or
which made him end his life on earth. cities. Also can be seen therein reflections of trees,
8) The end of Gandhari. After the great Kuruksetra battle boats etc. One such reflection may be cast on earth
heart-broken Dhrtarastra and Gandhari accompanied also. This is a mere optical illusion. This reflection
by Kunti, Vidura and Sanjaya went to the forests to immediately fades out also. This unreal city which is
spend the rest of their life there. Many people and the an optical illusion
Gandharvanagara.
is
Pandavas accompanied them up to the river Ganga and GANDHARVASENA. Daughter of Dhanavahana (a
there near the asrama of Satayiipa Dhrtarastra made gandharva) who lived in Svayamprabhanagara on
a hut and lived with Gandhari and Kunti. Mount Kailasa. She was cured of leprosy by observing
The Pandavas felt the separation of their relatives somavaravrata. (Skandha Purana) .
unbearable and lived in grief. After six years one day GANDHARVATlRTHA. An ancient place of pilgri-
Dharmaputra saw his mother, Kunti, in a dream. He mage on the banks of SarasvatI in North India. The
told his brothers about this and they all felt a desire gandharva called Vibhavasu usually dances at this
to go to the forest and see their mother. The next day they place with his companions. Balabhadra Rama once
reached the shores of Ganga. Vyasa also joined them. visited this holy place. (Salya Parva, Chapter 37,
Gandhari and Kunti expressed a desire to Vyasa that Verse 9).
they would like to see the dead sons and relatives once GANDHARVl. The first mother of horses. Kasyapapraja-
again. Vyasa then asked them to go and take a dip patihad by his wife Krodhavas a ten daughters: MrgI,
in the river. When they rose up after a dip they saw Mrgamanda, Hari, Bhadramata, MatangI, Sardull,
GANDHAVATI I 276 GA&GA
Sveta, Surabhi, Surasa and Kadru. Of the ten girls hilated and Sri Krsna entered mahasamadhi. Now the
Surabhi in due course of time became mother of two Pandavas lost all interest in mundane life, -and they
daughters. Rohim and Gandharvi. From Rohini was set out for the forest on their great journey after crown-
born the cattlebreed and horses were born from Gan- ing Pariksit, the grandson of Arjuna as King. Their
dharvi. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Canto 14) .
great travel took them to the shores of the Red Sea.
GANDHAVATI I. The name SatyavatI (Kali) was The Gandiva was still in Arjuna's hands. On the shores
assumed when sage Parasara had swept away her of the Red Sea Agni Deva appeared before the Panda-
matsyagandha (fish smell). She got also another name vas and spoke to them "Well, Pandavas, I am Agni
Yojanagandha. (Adi Parva, Chapter 63, Verse 80). Deva. Arjuna requires the Gandiva no more. I got it
GANDHAVATI II. The city of Vayu (the wind God). from Varuna for Arjuna. Return it, therefore, to
There are said to be nine cities on top of Mount Maha- Varuna."
meru: ( 1 ) Manovati of Brahma at the centre, (2) Just No sooner did he hear Agni Deva speak thus than did
on the eastern side of it AmaravatI of Indra, (3) Agni's Arjuna throw it into the depths of the sea and also the
Tejovati in the south-eastern corner, (4) Maya's Sarhya- quiver which never got exhausted of arrows with it.
manl in the south, 5) Nirrti's Krsnanjana in the- Agni Deva disappeared, and the Pandavas continued
their journey. (Mahaprasthanika Parva, Chapter 1).
south-western corner, (6) Sraddhavatl of Varuna on the
GAlStGA. The famous and holy river of India.
west, (7) Gandhavati of Vayu in the northwestern
corner, (8) Mahodaya of Kubera on the north, and (9) 1) Origin and general information. Ganga. had its origin
Yasovati of Isana in the north-eastern corner. (Devi- during the incarnation of Visnu asVamana. When
Vamana measured the three worlds in three steps the
bhagavata, Astama Skandha) .
1) Make. was
It Brahma who made the bow. 'This The famous Visriupadi, the flowing water (tirtha) of
terrible bow which can punish the unjust and the which washes away the sins of the people in the universe
wicked has been made by Brahma'. (Udyoga Parva, is the very same Gaiiga under discussion. For many
Chapter 98, Verse 21). yugas (eras) this river confined itself to the heights of
2) Specialities This bow is enough to fight
of Gdndiva. the sky, otherwise called Visnupada. This particular
one lakh of people at one and the same time. Both spot is known as Dhruvamandala as it is here that
Devas and men could be defeated with it. Chiselled Dhruva, son of King Uttanapada, does, his penance.
very smooth and shining with many colours it was a The seven sages who constantly go round and round
very long bow. It was worshipped by Devas, Danavas the Dhruvamandala take their bath in this holy river.
and Gandharvas. (Vira{a Parva, Chapter 43). It The course of the river is thus: starting from Visnupada
gained and also decreased in power as the situation it falls on devayana glittering with crores of vimanas
called for. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 98, Verse 20) . and therefrom descends on Candramandala which it
it
3) History of Gdndiva. Brahma, who made this bow submerges. course again from there divid-
It follows its
kept it with him during the first 1000 years. For the ing itself into four tributaries called Sita, Caksus,
next 1000 years Prajapati kept it with him. Next, Indra Alakananda and Bhadra and then falls in Brahmaloka
got it from Prajapati and he used it for 3585 years. wherefrom it flows in all directions. Of the four tributa-
After that Candra kept it for 500 years with him, and ries Sita falls on the head of Mount Meru, flows down
then Varuna came in possession of it. After using it for to Gandhamadana, then circling through Bhadrasva
100 years Varuna gave it to Arjuna, who used it for 65 varsa falls into the eastern sea. Caksus falls on the
years. peaks of mount Malyavan, flows through Ketumala
4) Gdndiva and
Arjuna. Arjuna agreed to protect the and falls into the western sea. Alakananda falls on
Khandava forest from rain, if Indra sent rain when mount Hemakuta, flows through Bharata Varsa and falls
Agni began eating the forest. But, realising that Arjuna into the southern sea. And Bhadra falls on the head
possessed no weapons to effectively
oppose Indra, Agni of mount Srrigavan. flows through Uttarakuru and falls
requested Varuna to give the following to Arjuna, viz., into the northern sea. Alakananda flows through
the Gandlva bow and a quiver wherein the arrows Bharata Varsa and is regarded as the most sacred of the
will never be exhausted, and the chariot marked with four tributaries.
the symbol of monkey and drawn by four white horses Gaiiga which flowed through heaven fell on the earth
all kept by Candra. Varuna at once made a present after thousands of years of its origin. (Bhagavata,
of the above to Arjuna. And, it was with the aid of this Pancama, Skandha, Chapter 1
7) .
Gandlva, that Arjuna defeated Indra at the time of 2 ) Why Garigd became Diva's consort. Mahavisnu was
Khandavadaha. (See Khandavadaha) .
Arjuna had once engaged at Vaikuntha in a pleasant talk with his
taken a secret vow to cut off the head of anyone who wives, Laksmi, Sarasvati and Ganga when Gaiiga cast
asked him to give the bow to some one else. (Karna lustful eyes on Visnu, who, behind the backs of the
Parva, Chapter 69) . other two wives returned the lustful glances. Sarasvati
In after years Arjuna won many wars with the help of could not put up with that situation for a long time.
this bow. (See Arjuna) .
Therefore, she got up from her seat and beat Gaiiga.
5) Arjuna gives up Gdndiva. The great Kuruksetra war, Laksmi tried to restrain Sarasvati lest the quarrel should
which shook Bharata, to its very foundation came to an become fiercer. Angered at this intervention Sarasvati
end. Dharmaputra was crowned a King. It was at this cursed that Laksmi be born on earth. Gaiiga got angry
juncture that the Yadava dynasty got itself anni- that innocent Laksmi was thus cursed, and she in her
GAKZGA 277 GAisIGA
turn cursed that SarasvatI be born as a river on earth. Sagara, believing that it was Kapila who had stolen
SarasvatI did not take the curse lying down, but cursed the horse were about to attack the sage when he opened
that Gariga also be born as a river on earth and take his eyes, and they were reduced to ashes in the fire of
upon herself the sins of the whole world. When all the Kapila's eyes.
three wives of Visnu got themselves thus into trouble His sons having not returned even after a long time
he told them as follows "Everything has happened as
:
Sagara asked his grandson Amsurnan to seek them out,
it should have happened. Laksmi may go to the earth and after an extensive search he saw Kapila at Patala.
and be born in the home of Dharmadhvaja and grow Am-'uman pleased Kapila with laudatory phrases and
up as his daughter, but not from the womb of his the latter returned to him the sacrificial horse. Kapila
women. There you will purify the three worlds after also pronounced the blessing that the grandson of Arii-
which you will be born as the plant called tulasi, and suman would perform the purificatoiy rites of Sagara's
be married by an asura called Sarikhacuda, who will be sons by bringing down Ganga to earth from heaven.
born as a part of me. And, after that you will be turned Aiiis u man returned to the palace with the horse and
into a sacred river called Padmavatl, and leaving the the asvamedha was duly concluded.
river on earth your divine form will return to Vaikun- From Amsuman was born Dillpa and from him Bhagi-
tha." And, to Gariga Visnu said as follows "You will On becoming King, Bhagiratha handed over the
:
ratha.
go to earth as a holy river to wash off the sins of people reins of government to his ministers and began efforts
there. A
king called Bhagiratha will be leading you to to bring down Gariga to earth. He did tapas for thou-
earth, and you will, therefore, be known as Bhaglrathl sand years on the slopes of the Himalayas when Gariga
also. And, you remain there on earth as the wife of the asked him to please Siva first as he alone could face her
ocean of King Santanu. Your divine form will return
(Gariga) fall on the earth. Accordingly he pleased Siva
to mount Kailasa as the consort of Siva." As for Sara-
by his penance and Siva agreed to receive Gariga on
svatI, Visnu asked her to be born as
a river on earth, his head. With a terrific noise Gariga came down on
her divine form ultimately returning to Satyaloka and Siva's head. The haughty Gariga wanted to carry down
then becoming the consort of Brahma. Siva also to Patala. Realising this ambition of her
And, thus it was that Laksmi became the consort of Siva blocked her passage with the result that she wan-
Mahavisnu, Gariga of Siva and SarasvatI of Brahma. dered about in Siva's matted hair for many years
(Devi Bhagavata, Navama Skandha) .
without finding an outlet. Bhagiratha again did tapas
3) Ganga bom on earth due to the curse of Brahma. Maha- and pleased Siva who shook his matted head and made
bhisak, an emperor of the Iksvaku dynasty, went fall some water therefrom on earth. The water fell into
to Satyaloka after he had attained heaven, to worship
Bindusaras, and flowed in seven tributaries, the first
Brahma. Ganga too happened to be there. In the three, Hladini, Pavanl and NalinI towards the east, the
devotional atmosphere at Satyaloka a casual breeze next three, Sucaksus, Sita and Sindhu towards the west
removed Gariga's clothes slightly from position, and and the seventh tributary followed Bhagiratha. In this
Mahabhisak then cast a lustful glance at her which she manner they progressed a great distance till they reach-
also returned. Brahma, who was observing this exchange ed the agrama of the sage Jahnu, and the haughty
of love got angry and cursed that Mahabhisak be born
Ganga flooded the asrama. The sage got enraged at
as a King on earth and Ganga as his wife. Ganga this and drank up Gariga. But Bhagiratha pleased the
prayed for redemption from the curse, and Brahma sage who then let out Ganga through his ears. Thence-
told her that she would regain her old status after she forth Gariga came to be called Jahnavl also. Gariga
had delivered the Astavasus. As the consequence of
again followed Bhagiratha to Patala and made the sons
Brahma's cure Mahabhisak was born as King Santanu of Sagara attain salvation by purifying them with her
in the solar dynasty on earth and he married Ganga. waters. (Valmlki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Cantos 43
(Adi Parva, Chapters 96 and 97). and 44 Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 97 Devi Purana,
; ;
4) Bhagiratha brought down Ganga on earth. King Sagara Dvitiya Skandha Drona Parva, Chapter 60 Anusasana
; ;
8) Ganga became the wife of Santanu and the Astavasus were Through whatever places the Gaiiga flows those places
born. Once while hunting on the banks of the Ganga become sublime and sacred. Gaiiga is the refuge of all
Santanu saw a beautiful maiden and they fell in love created beings who
aspire for the final good. If Gaiiga
with each other. She agreed to become his wife on the is worshipped daily it will save families both on the
condition that he would not oppose whatever she said. mother's and the father's side from evil fate. To drink
Santanu agreed to it and married her. Soon after a Gaiiga water is better than the observance of a thou-
child was born to them and in the very presence of sand lunar months. If one worships Gaiiga for a month
Santanu, she threw the child into the Gaiiga. As per one will derive all the benefits of having performed all
previous condition Santanu kept mum at this. She the yajnas. Even the blind (the ignorant) who worship
threw into the river the seven Astavasus, who were Gaiiga, will attain equal status with the devas. The
born to her in succession. When she was about to sight ofGanga, contact with its waters and drinking
throw the last eighth of the Astavasus (Dyau) into Gaiiga water will purify people in thousands and lakhs.
the river Santanu prevented her. She got angry at
13) Ganga and Rddhd. Gaiiga is Radha and Krsna li-
this and disappeared with the child. (Adi Parva, Chap- Once ingoloka Radhadevi attempt-
quidified into water.
ter 98) .
ed drink Gaiiga dry, who, terror-stricken, hid
to
9) Santanu got back the son. Thirtytwo years after, herself at the feet of Sri Krsna, and the whole
Santanu went hunting again on the banks of the Ganga world experienced difficulties due to non-availability
where he saw the river obstructed in its course with of water. Sri Krsna came to know of the situation and
arrows by a handsome boy. Santanu did not recognise made Gaiiga appear again on earth. (Devlbhagavata,
that the boy was his son, who had been named Deva- Navama Skandha) .
him the boy. Ganga appeared with her son with beau-
tiful ornaments on him and spoke to Santanu thus: 15) Synonyms of Ganga used in the Mahabharata. Akasa-
"This is Devavrata, the eighth son whom you entrusted gariga, Bhaglrathasuta, Bhaglrathi, Sailarajasuta,
to me. He has mastered everything in archery from Saivasuta, Devanadi, HaimavatI, Jahnavl, Jahnukanya,
Vasistha, and he is Dyau (the vasu) son of Aiigi-
SamudramahisI, Tripathaga, Tripathagaminl.
ras reborn. You may please take charge of him." After 16) Synonyms of Ganga.
saying this she returned to heaven. (Adi Parva, Chap- Gaiiga visnupadl jahnutanaya suranimnaga /
ter 100) . Bhaglrathi tripathaga Trisrota bhismasurapi //
10) Ganga and Subrahmanya. (See under Subrahma- (Gaiiga, Visnupadl Jahnutanaya, Suranimnaga, Bhagl-
nya) . rathi, Tripathaga, Trisrota, Bhismasu). (Amarakosa).
11) Ganga and Bhisma. (See under Bhifma) .
GAlNlGADATTA. See Bhisma.
12) Greatness (divine nature) of Ganga. Mahabharata has GA&GADVARA (M) The place or locality in the Indo-
.
(AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 26), the following on the Gangetic plane where the river Ganges falls from the
greatness of Ganga. Himalayas. This place is known as Haridvara also.
If, after death, the bones of the dead are deposited arHidvara has an epic importance.
GASIGAHRADA(M) 279 GARBHA(M)
It was here that a child to King Janaka. (Brahmanda Purana. Chapter
(1) King Pratlpa did tapas. CAdi
Parva, Chapter 97, Verse 1) .
48) Of the seven elements in the human body, viz.,
.
(2) Sage Bharadvaj a had stayed on the banks of the Rasa, Rakta (blood) Marhsa (flesh) , Medas (fost) ,
,
Ganga, at Haridvara. (Adi Parva, Chapter 129, Verse Asthi (bone) , Majja (marrow) and Sukla (seminal
33). fluid) the last one, Sukla, is the most valuable. Brahma-
(3) Arjuna visited Haridvara during his tour or Pilgri- bija (the seed for production) is contained in Sukla.
mage. (Adi Parva, Chapter 213). From the food we consume, blood and the seminal fluid
(4) This is the entrance to heaven. A bath here in the take their nutrition. The Sukla emitted during coitus
Koti tirtha is as beneficial as the Pundarika Yajna. enters the womb woman propelled as it were by
of the
(Vana Parva, Chapter 34, Verse 27) .
Krostavayu. only one night for the Sukla to
It takes
(5) Sage Agastya and his wife Lomapada once did get inextricably mixed with blood in the womb. In that
tapas here. (Vana Parva, Chapter 97, Verse 1 1) .
mixing if the proportion of blood is higher, the child
(6) It was here that Siva appeared to Jayadratha, who born will be girl, and if the proportion of Sukla is high-
did tapas. (Vana Parva 72, Verse 24) .
er, the offspring will be boy. If blood and Sukla are
(7) Daksaprajapati had once performed tapas at mixed exactly in equal proportions the child will be
Kanakhala in Haridvara. (Salya Parva, Chapter 38, 'neutral', neither girl nor boy. During the first month
Verse 27). of pregnancy the child will be in liquid form. In the
(8) Those who bathe at KuSavarta, Vilvaka, Nila- second, it solidifies due to the mixing and interplay of
parvata and Kanakhala in Haridvara will attain heat, cold, air, etc. During the third, holes for
heaven. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 13) .
eye, ear, etc. become ready and the vein system is
(9) Bhisma did the funeral rites of his father at the formed. In the fourth, head, hands and legs of the
mouth of the Ganga. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 34, child are formed, and it is during this period that the
Verse 11). prospective mother develops certain desires. If those
(10) Dhrtarastra, Gandhari, Kunti and others died in desires are not satisfied the child may be born with
wild in the forest at Garigadvara, and Yudhisthira
fire physical deformities. During the fifth month the hips
conducted their funeral rites there itself. (Airamavasika and bones develop. The various organs get firmer and
Parva, Chapter 39, Verse 14) .
stronger gradually and fingers appear during the sixth
GA&GAHRADA (M) A sacred place on the limits of
. month. It is during the sixth month that hairs on the
Kuruksetra. There is a terribly deep whirlpool of the head and body appear and feelings and emotions ori-
river Ganges here and that depth of the river is con- ginate in the mind. During the seventh month the ten
sidered to be equivalent to three crores of sacred places. vayus (winds) on the basis of the nervous system.are
(Vana Parva, Chapter 83, and Anusasana Parva, released, and the child experiences glimpses of its pre-
Chapter 25) . vious existence, and ability to feel pain also is there.
GAKIGAMAHADVARA (M) The particular spot on
.
During the ninth month due to the force of the wind
theHimalayan peak wherefrom Ganga, starts. Those which effects actual delivery the child gets head down
who go there die in ice-falls. Only Nara and Narayana in the womb, and during the tenth month it emerges
have crossed this place. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 111, out of the womb. The child loses its memory about the
Verse 16). past because of its contact with the female organ
GA&GASAGARASAMGAMAM. A sacred tirtha, a bath and external wind.
in whichas beneficial as the performing often Asva-
is
According to the Agni Purana the process is a little
medha yajnas. (Vana Parva, Chapter 35, Verse 4) .
different :
system and lukla are the contributions of the atman. GARGASROTA. See under Garga, Para 6.
(Agni Parana, Chapter 369) . GARGA YANI. See under Gurupararhpara.
GARDABHI. A son of VisVamitra who was a brahma- GARGl. A celebrated brahmavadini born in the family
vadi. (Chapter 4, Anusasana Parva, M.B.) .
of Garga.
GARGA. GARGYA I. (TRIJATA) GARGA. A famous sage.
Descended from Visnu Brahma- 1) Birth. He was one of the sons of Visvamitra. (Sloka
1) Genealogy. thus;
55, Chapter 4, Anusasana Parva). (For genealogy see
Atri-Gandra-Budha-Pururavas-Ayus-Nahusa-Puru-Jana- under Visvamitra) He became gradually the priest of
.
was the grandson of Nara, (the brother of Garga) and The following are the
3) Gargya' s precepts on Dharma.
son of Sarhkrti. A son called Sani wasborn to Garga
precepts laid down by Gargya on Dharma. (1) Be
after which he took to Sannyasa. (Bhagavata, Dasama interested always on entertaining your guests, (2) Do not
Skandha, Chapters 20 and 21). eat meat, (3) Do not give injury to cows and brahmins,
3) Tddavaguru. In course of time Garga became precep- Perform yajna with a pure mind and pure body.
(4)
tor of the Yadavas. Sri Krsna and Balabhadrarama who
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 127).
had returned to Mathura from Ambadi were sent to 4) Gargya 's place in the line of preceptors. Vyasa expound-
sage Sandipani in obedience to the advice of Garga. ed the Vedas to Vedamitra, Saubhari and Sakalya.
(Bhagavata, Navama Skandha) .
Sakalya taught what he learnt to Vatsyayana, Maud-
4) Garga and Mucukunda. Garga once visited Mucukunda, galya, Sali, Adisisira, Gokhali and Yatukarna. Yatu-
son of Ma.ndha.ta at his palace, and very much pleased karua taught Nirukta to Baskala, Kraunca.Vaitala, and
with the devoted reception accorded to him blessed Viraja. Baskala combined all the other branches to-
Mucukunda that one day he would see Sri Krsna in gether and made 'Balakhilya? akha' and taught it to
person. It was according to this blessing that Mucu- Balayini, Gargya and Samsara. The Rgvedacaryas
kunda, while asleep once in a cave had a sight of Krsna. are those from Vyasa to Sarhsara. (Bhagavata, Dasama
(See under Mucukunda). Skandha).
5) Importance of Garga. A number of reputed sage 5) Indrasabhd and Gargya. Gargya was a shining mem-
visited Sri Rama on his return to Ayodhya from the ber of the Indrasabhiii. (Sloka 18, Chapter 7, Sabha
forest. Amongst them were present Kausika, Yavaknta, Parva, M.B.) .
Raibhya, Kanva and Garga with their numerous disci- GARGYA II. See under Balaki.
ples. (Uttara Ramayana) .
GARGYA (M). A place of habitation of ancient Bha-
6) Garga, a scholar in astronomy. There is a place called rata. This place was captured by Sri Krsna. (Chapter
Gargasrota on the banks of river Sarasvati. Garga did 1 1
,
Drona Parva) .
(Sand Parva, Chapter 59, Verse 111). GARHAPATI II. One of the seven fathers. The seven
7) Other information. (1) While the great war was fathers are: Vairajas, Agnisvattas, Giirhapatis, Soma-
Caturvedas and Kalas. (Chapter 11,
raging Garga visited Kuruksetra and advised Drona to pas, Eka^rngas,
end the war. (Drona Parva, Chapter 19) .
Sabha Parva, M.B.) .
(2) He advised King Vis vavasu about eternity. (Sand GARHASTYA. The Grhasthai'rama a stage in life when
Parva, Chapter 318, Verse 49). you live with your family as a house-holder. The true
(3) He spoke about the greatness of the world (Vis - dharma of a householder is to live with what he gets by
vamahima) to Yudhisthira. (Anusasana Parva Chap- doing the duty allotted to him. He should feed pilgrims
ter 18). and should not appropriate to himself what belongs to
GARISTHA GARUDA
and until it is given to him. (Sloka 3
others unless of the horse the tail appeared to be black and Vinata
Chapter Adi Parva)
31, .
lost the bet and became Kadru's slave.
GARISTHA. A sage worshipping Indra in his assem- It was
at this juncture that Garuda was born, and he
bly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 13).
GARUDA.
felt highly mortified to find his mother working as a
King of birds. slave of Kadru.
1) Genealogy.Descended from Visnu thus: Brahma
Marici Garuda. Kadru and her naga sons once ordered Vinata to
carry
Kasyapa them to the
naga residence in the middle of the ocean,
2) Birth. Kasyapa, grandson of Brahma and son of
called Ramaniyaka (Ramanam).
Marici married the eight daughters of Daksa called Accordingly Vinata
Aditi, Did, Danu, Kalika, Tamra, Krodhavasa, Manu carrying Kadru on her shoulders and Garuda carrying
and Anala. And to Tamra five daughters were born, Kadru's sons on his shoulders rose up in the But,
sky.
viz. KrauncI, Bhasi, Syeni, Dhrtarastrl and Suki.
Garuda did not relish the slavish work, and he, carry-
Out
of the five women KrauficI became mother of the owls, ing with him the nagas, flew up to the sun's orbit. The
Bhasi delivered the bhasas (types of birds) and from naga children fainted due to the excessive heat. But, on
the request of Kadru Indra sent
Syeni were born vultures and kites. Harhsa, Kalahamsa, heavy rain and the
Koka etc. are children of Dhrtarastri. From Suki was nagas regained consciousness. By then they had reached
born Nala and from Nala, Vinata; Aruna and Garuda Ramaniyaka island.
were the two sons born to Vinata. (Valmlki Rama- 4) Attempt Vinata from thraldom.
at freeing
Garuda, ex-
yana, Aranyakanda, Canto 15). tremely pained at the pitiable plight of his mother, one
There is a story in the Mahabharata about the birth of day asked Kadru what price she and her children
Aruna and Garuda. Kasyapa who was much pleased demanded for freeing Vinata from slavery, and Kadru
with the service of Vinata and Kadru asked them to demanded Amrta from Devaloka as the price.
select any boon they desired. Kadru chose to have a Garuda decided to get it and informed his mother
thousand nagas as her children while Vinata chose to about his decision to fly to Devaloka. But, what about
have two sons more powerful and heroic than the thou- food till he reached Devaloka? Vinata solved the
pro-
sand sons of Kadru. After granting them the boon blem by advising Garuda to eat the nisadas he will
meet on his way to Devaloka at the island called
Kasyapa retreated into the forest.
After some time Kadru laid thousand eggs and Vinata Nisadalaya, at the same time specially forbidding him
two eggs. Both of them kept their eggs in hot pots. In from eating on any account, brahmins who
might be
the 500th year the eggs of Kadru hatched and thousand there, at Nisadalaya. How to distinguish brahmins
from others, queried Garuda, and his mother
serpents of various kinds emerged out of them. But replied
Vinata's eggs did not hatch yet, and the sight of Kadru by pointing out that the brahmin will burn the throat
playing with her children pained Vinata much. She,
of him who tries to eat him, like fire. Then Vinata
blessed her son that his wings would be
therefore, broke open one of her eggs in secret, and a protected by
half-grown child stepped out of it. That child was Vayu, the lower half of his body by sun and moon, the
rest of the body
Aruna. Aruna got angry that Vinata forced open the by the Vasus and the head by Agni.
She
egg prematurely. He told her that as punishment there-
also
promised to wait there till her son returned.
of she would become a slave of Kadru. But, Aruna 5) Gafuda to Devaloka. After saluting his mother
granted her redemption from the curse thus: After an-
Garuda set out on his quest for Amrta. All the fourteen
worlds shook at the lashing of his
other 500 years the remaining egg of yours will hatch wings. He reached
and a son endowed with exceptional power and pro- Nisadalaya, where while consuming whole lots of Nisa-
wess will be born to you. He will liberate you from das a brahmin and his wife also to
happened get into
slavery." After telling his mother so much Aruna rose
his throat.Garuda felt their presence immediately in
to the sky where he became the charioteer of the Sun. his throat and requested them to
get out of his mouth.
(Adi Parva, Chapter 16. See also Para 6 infra) . Accordingly they got out and also blessed Garuda, who
After 500 years the egg broke itself open and out came continued on his journey.
Garuda with blazing effulgence, and he rose up in the Next Garuda reached the forest where his father
sky. His body glowed like the sun. The Devas who got Kasyapa was engaged in tapas. He told him about his
themselves dimmed by his effulgence asked Agnideva mission and requested him for
something to eat.
the reason therefor. Agnideva told them about the Kasyapa replied thus: "You see a pool wherein an
birth of Garuda and also that he was equally effulgent elephant and a tortoise are living for long as enemies.
as himself (Agnideva) Then all of them went to
.
Long ago two brothers Vibhavasu and Supratika quar-
Garuda and lavished on his head all possible blessings, relled over their paternal wealth and at the
height of
and Garuda, as requested by them, controlled his efful- it Vibhavasu cursed
Supratika to become an elephant
gence and returned to his mother. (Adi Parva, Chap- when Supratika pronounced the counter curse that
ter 23). Vibhavasu should turn out to be a tortoise;
The churning of son Garuda may eat that elephant and tortoise.
You, my
3) Slavery of'Vinata: the Milk-ocean
'May
was done before Garucla was born. Indra got a horse your journey for Amrta be crowned with success.
named Uccaihsravas from the Ocean of Milk. Between Now, Garuda after saluting his father, flew up in the
Kadru and Vinata a dispute arose as regards the colour sky carrying in his beak the elephant and the tortoise
of the horse's tail, Kadru saying that it was black while from the pool. As trees were falling
uprooted due to
Vinata asserted that it was white. They further agreed the terrific vibrations caused by the
lashing of his wings
to test the colournext day, betting that she who
the Garuda did not find a convenient place to sit down to
was proved to be wrong would become the slave of the eat his food. While
continuing the journey Garuda saw
victor. As the naga sons of Kadru hung on to the tail a big tree, its branches spread out in a
circumference
GARUDA 282 GARUDA
of a hundred yojanas. But, as soon as Garuda set foot on look with those eyes was enough to poison anyone to
a branch of the tree it (branch) crumbled down. On death. Garuda blinded those eyes by raising a torrent
that broken branch were the sages called Balakhilyas of dust, pierced them in the middle with his beak and
doing tapas hanging their heads down. Fearing that the and through the hole, his body reduced to such a tiny
sages might fall down Garuda continued his flight shape, went nearer to the pot. He destroyed the
holding in his beak the torn branch of the tree. But he wheels and the machine, and carrying the pot of nectar
could not find a safe place to deposit the branch with in his beaks rose to the sky shielding the light of the
the sages. So he came again to Mount Gandhamadana sun by his outspread wings. Mahavisnu, who became so
and saw Kasyapa, who apologised to the Balakhilyas much pleased with the tremendous achievements of
on behalf of his son and also explained to them about Garuda asked him to choose any boon. Garuda
his mission. The Balakhilyas were pleased and they left requested Visnu that he should be made his (Visnu's)
the place for the Himalayas. As advised by Kasyapa vehicle and rendered immortal without his tasting
Garuda deposited the branch of the tree on an unin- amrta. Both the boons were granted.
habited mountain peak. Garuda ate the elephant and 8) Garuda and Indra became friends. Indra hit with the
the tortoise there, and therefrom flew to Devaloka (Adi Vajra (his special weapon the wings of Garuda who
)
Parva, Chapter 29, 30) . was returning from Visnu. It did not wound his body,
6) Balakhilyas cursed Indra. Even before the arrival of but a feather of his fell in the atmosphere. Everybody
Garuda ill omens began appearing in Devaloka. Indra who saw the feather acclaimed Garuda as Suparna (he
asked Brhaspati for explanation about the ill omens. with the good wings) Indra was wonder-struck, and
.
Brhaspati with his divine eyes saw Garuda approach- he approached Garuda and requested that they should
ing Devaloka for Amrta, and he told Indra about be friends in future and the pot of nectar be returned.
Garuda born out of the powers of the tapas of Kasyapa Garuda replied that the nectar would be returned if
arid the Balakhilyas. He also told that such a fate as he was granted the power to make nagas his food, and
the present one befell Indra due to a curse of the Indra blessed him that he would live by consuming
Balakhilyas. Indra and the other Devas stood guard nagas. And then Garuda told Indra thus "I took this
:
over the pot of Amrta ready to repel all possible pot of amrta not for my own use. The nagas cheated
attacks. my mother and made her a slave, and she will be freed
There was a reason for Canada's birth from the powers if only this pot of nectar is given to them (nagas) You .
of the tapas of the Balakhilyas, and also for Indra to may snatch off the pot from the nagas; I shall not
be put into the present predicament due to the curse object to it."
of the Balakhilyas. Kasyapaprajapati, a long time ago, Indra and Garuda thus became friends and the former
began a terrific yajna for a son, and Indra and the followed Garuda on his way back home.
Balakhilyas who numbered more than 60,000 were 9) Garuda handed over the pot of amrta to- the nagas and
deputed by Kasyapa to collect firewood for the yajna. Indra cheated them of it. Garuda handed over the pot of
The Balakhilyas were only of the size of a thumb, and nectar to the nagas, who on the suggestion of the
Indra who very easily collected all the firewood needed former placed the pot on darbha grass spread on the
for the yajna laughed at the tiny Balakhilyas who were
ground. Also, in accordance with Garuda's advice that
carrying small twigs etc. for firewood. Angered at the they should take a purificatory bath before tasting the
insult the Balakhilyas removed themselves to another amrta the nagas went out to have the bath, and in
place nearby and began a yajna directed against Indra their absence Indra carried off the pot of nectar back
who alarmed at it sought the help of Kasyapa who then to Devaloka. Failing to find the pot of nectar on their
held peace talks with the Balakhilyas. They transferred return from bath the aggrieved nagas licked the darbha
their yagasakti (yajnic powers) also to Kasyapa and on which the pot was placed with the result that their
agreed to be satisfied with the condition that as the tongues were cloven into two. It was from that day
result of Kasyapa's yajna a son should be born to him, onwards that the nagas became double-tongued
who (the son) would defeat Indra. Thus, for the time (dvijihvas) And, thus Garuda redeemed his mother
.
being Indra escaped from the wrath of the Balakhilyas. from slavery. (Adi Parva, Chapter 34).
After the yajna was over Vinata came to Kasyapa and J.O) The Jig tree which Garuda broke with his beaks and
he blessed her with a son wishing that he should be- Lanka. It has been noted above that Garuda on his
come exceptionally strong and powerful, and that was way to Devaloka rested on a fig tree. That fig is
Garuda. (Adi Parva, Chapter 30). called Subhadra in Valmiki Ramayana.
7) Amrtakalasapaharanam. (The pot of nectar carried Ravana saw the fig tree around which sages were sitting
away) .Garuda approached the pot of nectar, and and which bore marks made by Garuda sitting thereon.
Visvakarma who attacked him first was felled to the (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranyakanda, Canto 35, Verse
ground. The dust storm raised by the waving of 26).
Canada's wings blinded everybody. The Devas and There is some connection between this tree and Lanka.
Indra, nay, even the sun and the Moon lined up Garuda had, as directed by Kasyapa, deposited in the
against Garuda, but he defeated them all, and entered sea the branch of the tree on which the Balakhilyas
the particular place where the pot of nectar was kept. in tapas and with which Garuda flew hither and
hung
Two terrific wheels were rotating round the pot and thither fearing about the safety of the Balakhilyas. At
they would cut into mince-meat anybody who tried to the spot in the sea where the branch was deposited
lay hands on the pot and a machine circled the wheels. sprang up an island like the peak of a mountain. It
Below the wheels were two monstrous serpents with was this island which in after years became reputed as
glowing eyes and protruding tongues like flashes of Lanka. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukhalariibaka,
fire, and the serpents never closed their eyes. The very Tarariga 4) .
GARUDA 283 GARUDA
1 1
) Garuda, Saubhari and Kaliya. Garuda had always Vinata, mother of Garuda, while she was working as the
entertained great hatred against the nagas, and now slave of Kadru, one day went into the woods to collect
Indra's permission having been obtained by him to eat firewood for her mistress. In the terrible rain and
die nagas for food, Garuda decided to launch a regular storm that ensued, Vinata lost her track and wandered
naga-hunting expedition. He began eating the nagas in the forest for many days before she could take shelter
one by one. Alarmed at this the nagas planned for their in the asrama of a Sannyasin. The pious man felt sorry
security in a conclave, and approached Garuda with for poor Vinata and blessed her that a son, who would
the proposal that one naga would go to him daily be able to win freedom for her would be born to her.
to serve as his food instead of his indiscriminate
killing Garuda was the son thus born to her.
of them. Garuda accepted their' proposal. After some Before the birth of Garuda when Kas'yapa and Vinata
time the nagas proposed to Garuda that they would were living together with their daughter Sumati the boy
conduct a sarpa-bali (sacrifice of serpents) and submit sage Upamanyu, son of Sutapas, went to them and told
the food got out of the bali to him so that his naga- Kasyapa thus: "While touring round the earth I wor-
hunting might be stopped for ever. Garuda agreed to shipped the pitrs at Gaya and I have been told that they
this also. According to the new agreement daily one (Pitrs) would get redemption only in case I married and
naga began going to Garuda with the food got became a father. I, therefore, request you to please give
out of the bali. your daughter Sumati to me as wife. Vinata did not
But Kaliya alone did not agree to the programme as he relish this proposal. Upamanyu got angry at the re-
did not recognise Garuda to be superior to him in jection of his offer and cursed Vinata saying that if
power. And, Garuda, who wanted to teach the haughty Sumati was given in marriage to any other brahmin boy
Kaliya a lesson challenged him to fight, and the fight she (Vinata) would die with her head broken into
took place in river Kalindl, Kaliya's abode. During pieces.
the fight the lashing of Garuda's wings raised the It was during this period when Vinata was in a fix
water in Kalindl up in the sky and it drenched the about the marriage of Sumati that Garuda was born to
sage Saubhari all over, who was performing tapas on her. He also thought over the problem and argued like
the banks of Kalindl. Saubhari cursed that the body this: the curse is only against a brahmin boy marrying
of Garuda be shattered into a thousand pieces if ever my sister Sumati; why not Sumati be given in marriage
he entered that area in future, and thenceforth the to a Ksatriya; but where to find an eligible Ksatriya
place became a prohibited area for Garuda. During boy? At this stage Vinata asked him to go and meet the
after years Kaliya was put up at this place. Sannyasin, who had promised her an illustrious son, in
A kadamba tree alone outlived the eflect of the poison the forest and this Sannyasin directed Garuda to Aurva,
of Kaliya. The tree could outlive the deadly poison for advice and guidance. When Garuda met Aurva and
because Garuda had rested on it on his way back from sought his advice about the marriage of his sister, the
Devaloka with amrta. (Bhagavata dasama Skandha) .
sage thought that the context offered a very good bride
12) Relationship of Garuda with the kings of the solar to Sagara. And, according to Aurva's advice Sumati
dynasty. King Sagara of the solar dynasty was married was married to Sagara, and thus Garuda became re-
to Sumati, the elder sister of Garuda, and there is a lated to the Kings of the Solar dynasty. (Brahmanda
story behind the marriage. Purana, Chapters 16, 17 and 18). The Sixty thousand
There was once a king called Subahu in the solar sons born to Sagara by Sumati were reduced to ashes in
dynasty. He married one Yadavi, but for many years the fire which emanated from the eyes of Kapila. ( See
they had no issues. Yadavi had become old by the Kapila). When Amsuman, the grandson of Sagara was
time she conceived a child as the result of many going around the world to find out these 60,000 sons he
yajfias etc. But, Subahu's other wives, viz. co-wives met Garuda on the way, and it was he who advised that
of Yadavi, did not like the prospects of Yadavi the waters of Gariga should be brought down on earth
becoming a mother. They administered poison to her so that the dead sons of Sagara might get spiritual
with the result that Yadavi did not deliver in time, redemption. (Valmiki Ra.ma.yana, Balakanda, Chap-
but continued as a pregnant woman for seven years. ter 41).
The sad couple, for their mental relief went into the 1
3) Garuda's conceit laid low. A very beautiful daughter,
forest and lived as disciples of a sage called Aurva. But Gunakesi, was born to Matali, the charioteer of Indra.
Subahu died rather soon and Yadavi prepared In the course of his search for a suitable husband for
herself to follow him in the funeral pyre. But, the Gunakesi he came to Patalaloka in the company of
sage Aurva prevented her from self immolation speak- Narada, and there Matali selected a noble naga called
ing to her thus : "You shall not act rashly. The child Sumukha as his prospective son-in-law. But a month
in your womb will become a famous emperor and rule before Garuda had eaten Sumukha's father Cikara, and
over the whole world." he had also given notice to Sumukha that within a
Yadavi yielded to the sage's advice and did not court month's time he too would be eaten.
death, and soon afterwards she delivered a son, and he Narada and Matali met Sumukha at the abode of his
was named Sagara, which meant "he who was affected grandfather Aryaka, who was very glad to marry his
by poison even while he was in the mother's womb. It grandson to Matali's daughter. But, the threat of
was this child who, in later years, became reputed as Garuda that he would eat Sumukha before the month
emperor Sagara. was over stared them all cruelly in their face. So, they
Sagara married the elder sister of Garuda when he was appealed to Indra for a solution to the problem, in the
living as a boy in Aurva's asrama, and there is a story presence of Mahavisnu. Indra gave an extension of life
behind the marriage, a story which related to the time to Sumukha and he wedded Gunakesi. The marriage
when Garuda was not born. enraged Garuda so much that he went to Indra's
GARUDA 284 GARUDA
assembly and insulted both Indra and Visnu at which went to Devaloka and plucked the Parijata flower from
Visnu extended his right hand to Garuda asking him the garden Nandana, and this led to a fight between
whether he could hold the hand. And, when Garuda Indra and Krsna in which Garuda also joined. Garuda
placed Visnu's hand on his head he felt as if the whole directed his main attention on Airava'ta which, at his
weight of the three worlds was put on the head. Garuda blows, fainted and fell down. (Harivamsa, Chapter 73) .
admitted his defeat. Mahavisnu thus laid low the 16) Defeated by Vdsuki. To churn the Milk-Ocean the
conceit of Garuda. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 105). Dcvas and Asuras decided to use Mount Mandara as
14) Garuda helped Galava. Galava was a disciple of the shaft and Vasuki as the rope to rotate the shaft.
Visvamitra. Once Dharmadeva, to test Visvamitra, went The attempts of the Devas, the Asuras and the Bhutaga-
to his asrama disguised as Vasistha and asked for food. nas of Siva failed to uproot and bring with them the
As there was no ready-made food at the a;' rama just mountain, when Garuda, at the instance of Visnu
then, Visvamitra naturally took some time to cook new brought the mountain as easily as a kite carries a frog.
food, and he went with it, steaming hot, in a plate to Again, when others failed to bring Vasuki from naga-
the guest. Saying that he would return within minutes loka Garuda went and asked the naga chief to follow
and receive the food, the guest (Dharmadeva) left the him to the ocean of Milk. Vasuki replied that if his
place, and Visvamitra stood there with the plate in presence was so indispensable he must be carried over
hand awaiting the return of the guest. He had to there. Then Garuda caught the middle part of Vasuki
remain standing thus for one hundred years, and during in his beak and rose in the air. But, even though
this whole period it was Galava who stood there
looking
Garuda rose beyond the horizon, when he looked down
after his guru. When hundred years were completed half of Vasuki still remained on the ground. Garuda
Dharmadeva returned to Visvamitra and accepted his then tried to fold Vasuki into two and carry it, but,
hospitality, and then only could the latter take some again to no purpose. Disappointed and humiliated
rest. Garuda returned without Vasuki. Afterwards Vasuki
Visvamitra blessed Galava, and now it was time for him was brought to the ocean of Milk by Siva's hand stret-
to leave the asrama. Though Visvamitra told that no ched down into Patala. (Kamba Ramayana, Yuddha
gurudaksina (tuition fee) was required Galava persist-
Kanda )
.
ed in asking him what fee or present he wanted. 17) Bhima went in search of the Saugandhika flower on
Visvamitra lost his temper and told Galava that if he account of Garuda. While, in the course of their exile in
was so very particular about gurudaksina, eight hun- the forest, the Pandavas were put up at the asrama of
dred horses all having the colour of moon, and one ear maharsi Arstisena, Garuda picked up from the depths
black in colour might be given as daksina. Galava of the sea one day a naga called Rddhiman, and due to
stood there aghast at the above pronouncement of his the vibration caused by the lashing of Garuda's wings
preceptor, when Garuda happened to go over there and Kalhara flowers from the garden of Kubera were flown
hear from Galava about his sad plight. Money was re- to the feet of Panca.ll. She wore the fragrant flowers in
quired to purchase horses, but Galava was penniless. her hair saying that if she were to have good flowers,
At any rate Garuda with Galava on his back flew east- wind had to bring them. Since there was a mild and
wards and reached Rsabhaparvata and they rested on veiled insinuation in that statement that BhTma was
a peak of it. There the Brahma woman, Sandili was inferior to the wind the former did not appreciate that
engaged in tapas and she served them with food. After comment by Panca.ll. And so he rushed to Mount
food Garuda spoke disparagingly about Sandili. Garuda Gandhamadana to collect Kalhara flowers. (Vana
and Galava slept that night on the floor, but when they Parva, Chapter 106).
woke up in the morning lo! Garuda was completely saved Uparicaravasu. Once a
18) Garuda controversy
shed of his feathers. Garuda stood before Sandili, his started between the Devas and the brahmins, the former
head bent in anguish. Sandill blessed Garuda, who
advocating the use of goat's flesh in performing yajfias
then got back his old feathers. while the brahmins contended that grains were sufficient
Continuing their journey Garuda and Galava reached for the purpose. Uparicaravasu, who arbitrated in the
the palace of the very rich King, Yayati. Garuda intro- debate spoke in favour of the Devas, which the brahmins
duced Galava to Yayati, who found it difficult to get did not like, and they cursed Vasu to fall from the sky
800 horses for Galava. But, Yayati gave his daughter into the pits of the earth. This curse was countered
Madhavl to Galava saying that he might give her to by the Devas blessing him that as long as Uparicara-
any King and get money enough to purchase 800 vasu remained on earth he would not feel hungry and
horses. After thus showing the means to get that he would regain his old form due to the blessings
money to
Galava, Garuda returned home. of Mahavisnu. Vasu prayed to Visnu, who sent Garuda
Galava gave Madhavl first to King Haryasva of to the former, and Garuda carried Vasu to the sky on
Ayodhya, then to King Divodasa of Kasi and next to his wings. Thus Vasu became again Uparicaravasu.
King Uslnara of Bhoja and got from them two hundred (Santi Parva, Chapter 338) .
horses each, and he submitted the horses and also
19) Other information about Garuda. (1) A danava once
Madhavl in lieu of the balance of two hundred horses stole away the crown of Sri Krsna who was on a visit
to Visvamitra as-daksina. A son called Astaka was born to Mount Gomanta. Garuda retrieved it from the
to Visvamitra by Madhavl, who had been granted a danava and returned it to Krsna. (Bhagavata, Dasama
boon that she would not lose her youth and beauty even Skandha) .
though she lived with any number of people. (Udyoga (2') The monkeys who searched for Sita visited the
Parva Chapter 108). house of Garuda also. (Valmiki Ramayana, Kiskindha
15) Fight between Garuda and Airdvata. Sri Krsna once Kanda, Canto 40, Verse 39) .
GARUDAPURA^A 285 GAUTAMA I
(3) Garuda had married the four daughters of rajasuya sacrifice of Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter
Daksaprajapati. (Bhagavata, 6th Skandha). 34, Verse 12) .
(4) He had a son named Kapota. (Udyoga Parva, GAURl See Parvati.
I.
GARUDAVYUHA. A system of arranging soldiers on Asvamedha Parva. It is reported that this daughter
the battlefield in the shape of Garuda. wept when Utariga a disciple of Gautama came to the
asrama with a huge load of firewood on his head. In
GATITALI. A warrior of Skandadeva. (Salya Parva,
Chapter 4, of Vamana Purana there is a reference to a
Chapter 45, Verse 67). few other daughters of Gautama, namely, Java, JayantI
GATRA. A maharsi, the son of Vasistha, who had by and Aparaji.
Urjja seven Rsis called Rajas, Gatra, Urdhvabahu, 3) An attempt to kill Ahalya. Once when Gautama was
Savana, Alaghu, Sukra and Sutapas. (Agni Purana ,
away from the asrama Indra came there as a guest.
Chapter 20). Considering it as her duty to treat a guest of her
GAURA (M) A mountain
. in the Kusa island. (Bhlsma husband properly during his absence Ahalya received
Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 4) . him well and gave him fruit to ease his tiredness.
GAURAMUKHA. A son of sage Samlka. It was Indra went back. Gautama on knowing this on his
Samlka's son Sriigi, who cursed Pariksit to death by return suspected the chastity of his wife and calling
snake-bite. (See Pariksit). Sn'igl cursed that Pariksit, his son Cirakari to his side asked him to cut off her
who had thrown a dead snake on the neck of his father head. After giving the order Gautama went to the
while in meditation, would be bitten to death by snake forests.
within seven days. Srrigi sent word about the curse Cirakari had a peculiar nature. He will ponder over
through his disciple Gauramukha to Pariksit. (Adi things deeply before taking any action. He knew he must
Parva, Chapter 42, Verses 14-22) . obey the orders of his father but killing one's own
mother was a greater sin than disobeying a father.
GAURAPRABHA. Son born to Suka (Vyasa's son)
Weighing the merits and demerits of the act Cirakari
by his wife Pivari. Suka had four sons called Krsna, sat thinking without doing anything.
Gauraprabha, Bhuri and Devasruta and a daughter Gautama when he reached the forest thought again
Kirti. (Devlbhagavata, Prathama Skandha).
about Ahalya and her crime. After all what has she
GAURAPRSTHA. A royal sage who worships Yama at
done ? A guest came to the asrama and as duty-bound
his sabha (assembly) .
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Verse she welcomed him. It was indeed a great sin to have
21). killed her by her own son. Immersed in thoughts of
GAURASlRAS. A sage of ancient days, who worshipped this kind, sad and repentant, Gautama returned to the
Indra in his assembly. (Sabha Parva; Chapter 7, Verse asrama to find Cirakari sitting silently deeply engross-
11). ed in thoughts. On seeing his father Cirakari was
GAURAVAHANA. A King, who was present at the perplexed and he explained to his father about the good
GAUTAMA 286 GAUTAMA V
and bad effects of his order. Gautama was
pleased at Kaksivan. (Slokas 17, 18 and 3 of Chapters 4,7 and
this and he blessed him with
long life. 21 respectively of Sabha Parva, M.B.).
4) How the disciple Utanga was tested. Utariga was the GAUTAMA An
111. ascetic of great erudition. He had
best of the
disciples of Gautama. So even when all three sons named Ekata, Dvita and
the other disciples were sent
Trita. (See under
away Gautama asked 'Ekata') .
(Sloka 79, Chapter 36, Salya Parva).
Utaiiga to continue as a disciple which Utariga did
most willingly. The disciple became old with
GAUTAMA IV. Another ascetic of great virtue. Once
grey when this Gautama was going the forest he
through
hairs. Then taking
pity on him Gautama received saw an elephant babe lying wearied. He took it to his
gurudaksina from Utariga and sent him away with asrama and brought it up. When it became a full
blessings. (For details see under 'Utariga').
5 ) Curse of Ahalya. Indra became a lover of
grown elephant Indra disguised as the emperor
Ahalya Dhrtarastra came to take it away Gautama
and slept with her. Gautama secretly.
coming to know of that found it out and then he was offered thousand cows
cursed both Indra and and much wealth in lieu of the elephant. But Gautama
Ahalya. (For details see under
Ahalya ) .
refused to with the
Other details regarding Gautama.
part elephant. Pleased with his
6) extreme affection dependant, Indra took both
for his
(i) Kalmasapada, King of Ayodhya. lived for twelve Gautama and the elephant to heaven.
as a demon (Chapter 102,
years following a curse ofVasistha. At Anusasana Parva) .
last he took
refuge in Gautama and following his GAUTAMA. V. An ungrateful brahmin. He was born
advice went to Gokarna and in Madhyades"a. He left his
doing penance there to parents and after travelling
propitiate Siva attained moksa. (Sivaratri in many lands he came to a
It was sage Nodhas,
Mahatmya) .
country of foresters. The
(ii) alias Gautama, who composed foresters received him with
respect and he lived in a
Sukta 58, Mandala one of Rgveda. hut of the foresters and married a
lady from among
(in) Laksmana, brother of Sri Rama, constructed a them.
palace called Vaijayanta near the asrama of Gautama. Gautama abandoned his brahminhood and accepted
(Uttara Ramayana). the duties of foresters. He was living like this when
(iv) Gautama is one of the seven sages (saptarsis (Sloka another brahmin boy came to that
50, Chapter 133, Anusasana Parva). village. He searched
in vain for a brahmin house to
stay for the night and
(v) Gautama sat in the court of Brahma and worshipp- then knowing that a man born a brahmin but made
ed Brahma. (M.B. Sabha Parva). a forester by his duties was there he went to his
living
(vi) Gautama once blessed Dyumatsena, father of house. Gautama also came there carrying the animals
Satyavan, and said that he would regain his eyesight and birds he had hunted down that
11. Chapter 298, Vana day. His body
(Slpka Parva). was bathed in blood. The brahmin
(vii) When the war between the Pandavas and Kau-
guest felt com-
ravas broke out Gautama went passion for Gautama and advised him to leave his
to the Kuruksetra trade and go to his house in his
battlefield and advised Drona to country.
stop the battle In the morning the brahmin guest went
away without
(Slpka 36, Chapter 190, Drona Parva)- taking any food. The advice of his guest kept him
Gautama was also one of the many
(viii)
sages who thinking. He decided to abandon his life as a hunter
"
x) Once Gautama turned the moustache of Indra that banyan tree. He used to
go out to worship Brahma
green by a curse for showing disrespect to him. (Sloka at dusk and when he returned to his abode that
day
23, Chapter 352, Santi Parva). he saw a man lying wearied down below. Gautama
(xi) When Gautama was born, there was such bri- attempted to catch the vulture and eat it but the
lliance that the was removed and vulture playing a benign host placed before Gautama
surrounding darkness
so the boy was named Gautama food for him and made enquiries about him and asked
(Gau= light rays,
Tamas= darkness) to mean the remover of darkness' him the purpose of his travels. Gautama told him that
(Sloka 94, Chapter 93, Anusasana Parva). he was very poor and that he wanted to
acquire some
(xii) Once Gautama instructed the King Vrsadarbhi
wealth somehow.
on the evil of accepting rewards for Nadijamgha then said that he would get for him enough
good deeds! (Sloka wealth from the demon-King Virupaksa who was an
42, Chapter 93, Anusasana Parva) .
and feathers of his father's friend. He knew what had to study details about the incident he pronounced the
happened and he immediately followed the ungrateful following curse. "Whoever might be the person who
brahmin and capturing him brought him to his father threw a dead snake about my father's neck, he will be
bound hand and foot. Virupaksa without any mercy bittento death by Taksaka within seven days from
cut him into pieces and threw them for the crows to today." Only after the curse was pronounced did he
eat. But even the crows would not eat the flesh of such understand that it was King Pariksit who had become
an ungrateful man. the object of the curse. And, he despatched his disciple
Virupaksa burnt the remains of Nadijarhgha in a immediately to Pariksit to inform him about the curse.
funeral pyre. Devas assembled in the skies to watch The King's reaction was, "when the time for death
the funeral. Then Surabhi sprinkled milk on the comes let me die." (Devi Bhagavata, Dvitiya
funeral pyre and brought back Nadljamgha to life. Skandha) .
The reborn vulture felt sorry for Gautama and request- GAVISTHA. A famous asura. It was he who descended
ed Surabhi to restore to life the wretched Gautama on earth as king Drumasena. (Adi Parva, Chapter 67) .
also. Gautama also was brought back to life and he GAYA. A particular locality in North India (Nepal).
embraced Naclljamgha. Gautama then went away with Here there is Gaya mountain and a holy centre also.
his load of gold. There is legend to the effect that Buddha did tapas here.
Gautama returned to Sabaralaya and there married a People of this locality gave many presents to
Sudra lady and begot evil sons. The devas were Yudhisthira. (Sabha Paiva, Chapter 52, Verse 16).
offended at this and cursing him condemned him to GAYA I. See Gaya tlrtha.
hell. (Chapters 168 to 173, Santi Parva) .
1) General. A King of ancient India Gaya was a
GAUTAMI I. Another name of Krpi, wife of Drona. Rajarsi and son of Amurtarayas. The Rajarsi had
(Sec under Krpi) . conducted many yajnas. A very well-known yajna of
GAUTAMI II. The woman called Jatila belonging to his is described in verse 18, Chapter 75 of Vana Parva.
the family of Gautama is known as GautamI also. (See 2) Particular Information. (1) Gaya was a member in
under Jatila). Yamaraja's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Verse
GAUTAMI III. A brahman! whose son succumbed to 18).
snake-bite. (See Arjuna) .
(2) He had earned reputation and wealth by visiting
GAUTAMI IV. A
river referred to in verse 71, Chapter the sacred temples in India. (Vana Parva, Chapter 94,
165 of Anusasana Parva. Verse 18) .
GAVAKSA I. A monkey king. A terrific warrior, he (3) The Rajarsi had come in his vimana (aeroplane)
helped Sri Rama
with 60,000 monkeys. (Vana Parva, to witness the fighting between Arjuna and Krpacarya
Chapter 283, Verse 4). in the war, which broke out as a result of the Kauravas
GAVAKSA II. Younger brother of Sakuni, the son the cows of the Virata King. (Virata Parva,
lifting
of Subala. In the great war he broke into the military Chapter 56, Verse 9) .
set up of the Pandavas. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 90). (4) Sri Krsna met Gaya on his (Krsna's) way to
He was killed by Iravan, son of Arjuna. (Bhisma Parva, Hastinapura from Dvaraka. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter
Chapter 90) . 83, Verse 27) .
GAVALGAI^A. Father of Sanjaya of Mahabharata (5) Once King Mandhata subjugated Gaya. (Drona
fame. (Adi Parva, Chapter 63, Verse 97) .
Parva, Chapter 62, Verse 10) .
3).
(8) Gaya did not eat flesh. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter
GAVAYANA. (GAVAMAYANAM). A yajna. (Vana 115, Verse 59).
x
Parva, Chapter 84, Verse 10? .
GAYA II. A king born to Ayus, the son of King
GAVIJATA. (SR&GI) Th son of a sage named
. Pururavas by his (Ayus's) wife Svarbhanu (Svirbha-
Nagabhusana, Gavijata cu. sed that King Pariksit navl) This Gaya was the brother of Nahusa.
. (Adi
should die of snake-bite. The curse was made under Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 25) .
King Pariksit went hunting one day in the forest and GAYA IV. A
King born in the dynasty of the famous
he who had chased a deer in hot haste for some dis- emperor Prthu. Prthu had two sons called Antardhana
tance naturally very weak and tired, and requested
felt and Vadl. A son called Havirdhana was born to Antar-
a sage he saw there in the forest for some water. dhana by Sikhandl; he (Havirdhana) married Dhisana
Immersed in meditation the sage did not hear the King, born in the family of Agni and they had six sons called
and mistaking him to be a haughty fellow, the King, Praclnabarhis, Sukra, Gaya, Krsna, Vraja and Ajina.
with his stick, lifted a dead snake and placed it round (HarivanVa, Chapter 2, Verse 31) .
the neck of the sage. Yet he did not stir. The King GAYA V. A King, a descendant of Dhruva. (Agni Purana,
returned to his palace. Chapter 18).
GAYAKA 288 GHAI^TA I
GAYAKA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 67, Chap- Anustubh, and Pankti. (Chapter 8, Arhxam 2, Visnu
ter 85, Salya Parva) .
Purana) .
GAYASIRSA. See Gayas iras. time of Tripura dahana Siva hung this Gayatrl mantra
GAYATlRTHA. The following story is told in the Agni as a string on the top of his chariot (Chapter 34, Karna
Purana about (he origin of this very reputed sacred Parva) .
place at Gaya. 2) The glory of Gayatri. If one recites Gayatrl once one
An asura called Gaya was once performing will be freed from all sins done at that time; if one
tapas here. As the intensity of his tapas went recites it ten times all the sins done on one day will be
on increasing, the Devas got nervous and they washed away. Thus, if one recites it a hundred times
approached Visnu with the request that he should the sins of one month; thousand times, the sins of a
save them from Gayasura. Visnu agreed to oblige year; one lakh times, the sins of his life time; ten lakh
them. Meantime the intensity of Gaya's tapas increa- times, the sins of his previous birth; hundred lakh times,
sed daily. Ultimately Visnu appeared to Gaya and as the sins of all his births, will be washed away, If a
requested by him granted him the boon to the effect man recites it ten crore times he becomes a realised
that he would become more holy and sanctified than soul and attains moksa. (Navama Skandha, Devi
all the tirthas in the world. Bhagavata).
Brahma and other Devas became afraid of Gaya's 3) How Gayatri. It should be recited silting
to recite
power and prowess and they complained about him to still your head slightly drawn downwards with
with
Visnu, who advised Brahma to request Gaya for his your right palm open upwards, with the fingers raised
body perform a yajna. Brahma did so and
in order to and bent to give the shape of the hood of a snake.
Gaya lay down on earth so that the Yajna might be Starting from the centre of the ring-finger and counting
performed on his body. Brahma began the yajna on his down and going up through the centre of the small
head, and made an offering when the body of Gaya finger and touching the top lines on the ring, middle and
was not stationary or quiet. When told about this fact forefingers, count down to the base of the forefinger,
Visnu called up Dharmadeva (See Marici, Para 3) and you get number ten. This is how the number of recita-
told him thus "You please hold devasila (a divine
: tions is counted. This method is called the Karamala
stone) on the body of Gaya, and let all the Devas sit (hand rosary) method. This is not the only method
upon it, and I shall be seated on the stone along with that could be used. You can use a rosary made of
the Devas, holding the gada (club) in my hands." lotus seeds or glass beads. If you are using lotus seeds
Dharmadeva did as he was bidden by Visnu. The body you should select white seeds for the rosary. (Navama
of Gaya stopped shaking as soon as Visnu sat upon the Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
stone, and Brahma made the full offerings. Thenceforth GAYATRlSTHANA. A sacred place of northern Bha-
the place became a holy tirtha under the name Gaya. rata. If one spends one night here one will get the
After the yajna was over Brahma gave the Gaya temple benefit of giving away as gifts a thousand cows. (Sloka
20, 000 yards (5 Krosa) in extent with 55 villages 28, Chapter 85, Vana Parva) .
attached to it as daksina (fee) to the masters of the GERU. A mineral obtained from mountains. (Sloka 95,
ceremony. Brahma presented the villages to them after Chapter 158, Vana Parva).
creating therein hills purely of gold, rivers flowing GH (rj. This letter has two meanings: (1) Bell (2) a
with milk and honey, houses built of Gold and silver blow or assault; striking or killing. (Agni Purana,
etc. But the brahmins who got these gifts stayed on Chapter 348) .
there, their avarice only on the increase perhaps. GHANAPATHA. A particular system of Vedic studies.
Angry at this Brahma cursed the people of Gaya, and There are four such systems. The system of separating
according to it the brahmins became illiterate and evil- each word from conjunctions and combinations and
minded; rivers flowed with water instead of milk and combining with the word just before and after it is
honey. The brahmins lamenting over their evil fate called Jatapatha. Jatapatha means joined or combined
submitted their grievances before Brahma, who consol- Patha. Ghanapatha is there to avoid errors in Jatapatha
ed them thus Well, brahmins of Gaya, as long as
:
Ghanapatha consists of padapatha and Kramapatha.
there exist the sun and the moon you will continue In Padapatha the split words are once more combined
to be dependent upon the Gaya tirtha for your sus- and Pratisakhya lays down the rules to combine words.
tenance. Whoever comes to Gaya and gives offerings It is because of this scientific system of reciting that
to you and performs the due rites for the souls of the the Rgveda remains to this day pure in text without
departed, the souls of hundred generations of his different readings.
ancestors will be transfered from hell to heaven where GHA1VTA. I. A brahmin born in Vasistha's family. He
they will attain final beatitude." spent hundred years worshipping Siva. Once Ghanta
Thus did Gayatlrtha become famous. (Agni Purana, asked sage Devala to give his daughter in marriage to
Chapter 144). him. But Ghanta's ugliness stood in the way. So he
GAYATRl I. One of the seven horses of Surya. The abducted the daughter of the sage and married her.
other horses are Brhati, Usnik, JagatI, Tristubh, Enraged at this Devala cursed and turned him into an
GHANTA II 289 GHATA
He was also given redemption from the curse that
owl. Krsna felt pity for him. Ghantakarna told Krsna that
he would regain his form the day he helped Indra- his aim and ambition were to see Visnu and that Siva
dyumna. (Skanda Purana) . had blessed that he would realise his ambition at
GHA1VTA II. See under Ghantakarna. Badaryasrama. Pleased at all this, Sri Krsna revealed
GHAI^TAKARIVA I. his Visvarupa (representing in his person the whole
1) General. Ghanta and Kama
were two Raksasa bro- universe) and at once Ghantakarna brought half of the
,
dation hecame unbearable Siva created Bhadraka.li 6) Ghantakarna Pratiftha, (Installation of his idol in
from his third eye and she killed the asura. Mandodarl temples) .
Though Ghantakarna was a Raksasa, as he
wife of Daruka and daughter of Maya was sunk in attained Vaikuntha due to the blessings of God Al-
grief at the death of her husband. She began to do mighty his idol is in temples and wor-
still installed
tapas. Siva appeared and gave her a few drops of sweat shipped. The installation
ceremony is described in
from his body saying that the person on whom she Chapter 59 of the Agni Purana thus: 'Ghantakarna
sprinkled the sweat drops would suffer from small-pox should have 18 hands. He cures diseases born as a result
and that such patients would worship her (Mandodarl) of sins. He holds in his right hand Vajra, sword,
and supply her necessary food. From that day onwards Cakra, arrow And in his left hand broom, sword, cord
etc.
Mandodari became the presiding deity over small-pox. etc. He also holds the trisiila (trident).
bell, pickaxe
On her way back to the earth with the sweat-drops Ghantakarna who turned out to be a Deva is believed
Mandodarl met BhadrakalT at whom she threw the sweat- to cure small-pox.
drops to take revenge for her husband's death. Immedi- GHA^TAKARIVA II. One of the four attendants pre-
ately Bhadrakali fell down with an attack of small-pox. sented by Brahma
Subrahmanya. Nandisena, Lohi-
to
Hearing about the mishap Siva created a terrible taksa, Ghantakarna and Kumudamali are the four
Raksasa called Ghantakarna According to Siva's
. attendants. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verses 23-24).
directions Ghantakarna licked off the small-pox from GHA1VTODARA. An asura, who was a member of
Bhadrakali's body. But, when he tried to lick it off from Varuna's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 9, Verse
her face she prevented him saying that she and Ghanta- 134).'
karna were sister and brother and that it was improper GHARMA.- A King of the Anga royal dynasty.
for the brother to lick the face of the sister. And, even GHATA. An urban area in ancient India. (Bhisma
to this day the small-pox on Bhadrakali's face remains Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 63) .
wearing a bell so that the tinkling of it warded off the of the princess who, after enjoying sexual pleasures
name of Visnu from entering his ears. Because he wore with him gave him some money asking him to repeat
a ghanta (bell) in his Karnas (ears) he came to be such visits in future. Karpara told Ghata all that had
known as Ghantakarna. (M.B. Bhavisya Parva, Chap- happened and handed over to him the money which the
ter 80). princess had given him. Karpara went again to the
4) Turned out to be a devptee of Visnu. Ghantakarna princess. But, owing to the weariness caused by the
became a servant of Kubera. Once he did tapas for night's enjoyment both the princess and he slept till late
salvation. Siva appeared and asked him to do tapas to in the morning. Meantime the palace guards found out
than himself (Siva) the secret and took the lovers into custody. Karpara
please Visnu as Visnu was greater
.
From that day onwards he removed the bells (Vom his was sentenced to death and led out to be hanged. Ghata
ears and became a devotee of Visnu. (Bhavisya Parva, was present on the spot and Karpara asked him secretly
Chapter 80). Accordingly Ghata, without any-
to save the princess.
Attained salvation. Handing over charge of govern- body knowing about it, took the princess over to his
5)
ment to Satyaki Sri Krsna once went to Kailasa moun- house.
ted on Garuda to see Siva. On
his way he dismounted The King ordered enquiries about the absence of the
at the Badaryasrama, and while sitting deep in medi- princess. Under the
natural presumption that some
tation there he- heard the thundering voice of Pisacas relation or other of Karpara alone might have carried
he understood that Pisacas were hunting animals. The corpse and expressed grief. Ghata came to know of this
hunters came to Krsna's presence. They were led by secret order of the King. Next day evening Ghata posing
Ghantakarna who was reciting the name of Visnu. ii himself as a drunkard and with a servant disguised as
i. According to certain Puranas Ghantakarnas are two individuals, Ghanta and Karna. The term Ghantakarna singular number r
Realising now that further stay there was not safe Ghata son to the Pandavas. You should be ever a support to
left the place with the princess and the sannyasin. But, them." To this Ghatotkaca answered that he would
the princess, who had already fallen in love with the return to them whenever any need arose for it.
sannyasin poisoned Ghata to death. 3) Carried the Pandavas on shoulders. During their exile
GHATAJANUKA. A sage who was a prominent member in the forest the Pandavas became too tired to walk any
in Yudhisthira's assembly. (Sabha Parva,
Chapter 4) . further when Bhlma remembered Ghatotkaca, who
Once, Krsna, on his way to Hastinapura met this
Sri promptly appeared before the Pandavas, and at the
sage. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 38) . instance of Bhlma got down a number of Raksasas also.
GHATAKARPARA. One of the nine great poets in Ghatotkaca carrying Pancall on his shoulders, and the
Sanskrit reputed as the nine gems in
Vikramaditya's Raksasas carrying the Pandava brothers on their
court. shoulders went by air to Badarikasrama where
"Dhanvantari Ksapanak Amarasimha Saiiku Vetala- Naranarayanas were doing tapas, landed them there,
bhatta Ghatakarpara Kalidasah". A poem of twen- and then they (Ghatotkaca and his companions) took
ty-two verses in Sanskrit called Ghatakarpara kavya is leave of the Pandavas. (Vana Parva, Chapter 145).
attributed to him. The theme of the poem is a message 4) Ghatotkaca in the great war. (1) In the first day's
despatched by the hero to his wife who has only recently fighting he fought against Alambusa, Duryodhana and
been married. All the stanzas are in yamaka (repeating Bhagadatta. Frightened at the terrible course of the
a word or set of words to convey different meanings at fight the Kauravas purposely postponed that day's
the end of each line) .
By composing a poem called fighting. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapters, 45, 57, 58) .
'Nalodaya', Kalidasa answered the challenge posed by (2) He defeated the King of Vanga and killed his
Ghatakarpara in the use of Yamaka. Ghatakarpara elephant. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 92, Verse 36) .
answered Kalidasa in the following stanza. (3) Defeated Vikarna. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 29, Verse
Eko hi doso gunasannipate 36).
nimajjatlndoriti yo babha.se / (4) On receiving blows from the great Kaurava
nunam na drstarh kavinapi tena heroes, Ghatotkaca rose up to the sky. (Bhlsma Parva,
daridryadoso gunarasinasl. // Chapter 93, Verse 6).
(Kalidasa, in verse 3, Canto 1 of Kumarasarhbhava (5) Ghatotkaca made the Kaurava army take to
had written 'Eko hi doso gunasannipate nimajjatindoh by the exercise of his magic powers. (Bhisma
their heels
kiranesvivarikah". In the above verse by Ghatakarpara Parva, Chapter 94, Verses 41-47) .
the usage 'Kavinapi tena' may be interpreted in two (6) Fought a duel with Durmukha. (Bhlsma Parva,
ways, viz. Kavina-f-api+tena and Kavi+napitena. By Chapter 110, Verse 13).
the second combination Ghatakarpara converted Kali- (7) Dhrtarastra praised the prowess of Ghatotkaca.
dasa into a barber (napita) .
(Drona Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 62).
GHATIKA. A measure of time equal to 24 minutes. (8) He fought with Alayudha. (Drona Parva, Chap-
Sixty vinadikas make one Ghafika. (See Kalamana) . ter 96, Verse 27) .
important part in the story of Mahabharata. He was, (10) Asvatthama, son of Drona killed Aftjana Parva,
from his very birth, a staunch friend and ally of the son of Ghatotkaca, (Drona Parva, Chapter 156, Verse
Pandavas. He courted a hero's death in the great war. 56).
2) Birth. On the burning of the 'lac Palace' the (11) Ghatotkaca fought with Kama. (Drona Parva,
Pandavas escaped through a tunnel and reached a forest. Chapter 175).
While they were sleeping on the ground, Hidimba the (12) He fought with Jatasura. (Drona Parva, Chapter
Raksasa chief in the forest saw the Pandavas from the 174).
top of a tree, and he deputed his sister Hidimbi to (13) He killed Alayudha. (Drona Parva, Chapter 178,
bring over the Pandavas to him for food. Verse 31).
Hidirhb! approached the Pandavas in the guise of a (14) Karna clashed with Ghatotkaca and failing to
beautiful woman. She was attracted towards Bhlma kill him by any means he (Kama) used VaijayantI
and she prayed for the return of his love, which Bhlma Sakti as the last resort. This Sakti had been given to
refused. Impatient at the delay Hidimba rushed to- him by Indra in exchange for his head-gear and ear-
wards the Pandavas, and in the duel that ensued rings, and Karna had been keeping
the Sakti in res-
between him and Bhlma, he was killed by Bhima. erve to kill Arjuna. At any rate Karna used it against
GHATOTKACAVADHAPARVA 291 GHRTAVATI
Ghatotkaca and he was killed. After killing Ghatot- about a son passed through his mind. Fire is produced by
kaca the Sakti entered the sphere of the stars. (Drona the rubbing of two sticks. But, he thought, how
Parva, Chapter 180). could he who had no wife, become the father of a son ?
5) Other information. (1) Ghatotkaca hated the bra- While immersed in such thoughts he saw Ghrtaci
hmins and their yajfias. (Drona Parva, Chapter 181, standing near him, herself having come along the sky.
Verse 27). Vyasa did not like the presence of Ghrtaci. Fearing
(2) When
the souls of the heroes killed in the great the curse of Vyasa she assumed the form of a parrot and
war were called upon the banks of Ganga by Vyasa, flew away.
Ghatotkaca's soul too had appeared. ( Airamavasika The beauty of Ghrtaci as also the flight of the parrot
Parva, Chapter 32, Verse 8) . kindled erotic feelings in Vyasa and seminal emission
(3) After death he lived with Yaksadevas. (Svargaro- occurred. The semen fell on the stick used for produc-
hana Parva, Chapter 5, Verse 37) .
ing fire, and without knowing the fact he went on
6) Synonyms of Ghatotkaca used in Mahabhdrata. Bhaima- using the sticks for producing fire. And, then did
seni, Bhaimi, Bhimasenasuta, Bhimasenatmaja, Bhima- appear from it a son of divine lustre. That son became
sunu, Bhimasuta, Haidimba, Haidimbi, Raksasa, reputed in later years as sage Suka. (Devi Bhaga-
Raksasadhipa, Raksasapufigava, Raksasesvara and vata, Prathama Skandha).
Raksasendra. 3)Two children by Bharadvaja. Once sage Bharadvaja was
GHATOTKACAVADHAPARVA. A sub Parva of Drona taking his bath in the Ganga., Ghrtaci also came to
Parva, (Drona Parva, Chapters 153-186). bathe. On the banks of the river her clothes caught
GHORA. A son of sage Angiras. (Anusasana Parva, something and were removed from their position. The
Chapter 85, Verse 131). sight of it caused seminal emission to the Sage. The
GHORAKA (M) Name of an urban region in the south-
. semen thus emitted was kept in a Drona, (bamboo cup)
west of ancient India. The people of this region supp- and when it was due the Drona broke and out
lied money to Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter of it came a child. It was this child which, in later
52, Verse 14) .
years, became so very famous as the great Dronacarya.
GHOSA. A famed in Rgveda. She was the
tapasvinl (Adi Parva, Chapter 149) On another occasion also,
.
grand-daughter of Drgata maharsi and daughter of sage the sight of Ghrtaci caused emission in Bharadvaja,
Kaksivan. As she contracted leprosy in her very child- and Srutavati or Sruvavatl was the noble daughter
hood nobody came forward to marry her. Ultimately born out of it. (Salya Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 63) .
she composed a mantra in praise of Asvinidevas. They Hundred daughters of Kusanabha. Kusanabha, son of a Kw
cured Ghosa of leprosy and she got married. (Rgveda, was a saintly king. Once Kusanabha fell in love with
Mandala 1, Anuvaka 7, Sukta 117). Ghrtaci and a hundred daughters were born to him
GHOSAVATI. The famous Vina of emperor Udayana. of her. Once Wind-God felt enamoured of the
( Kathasaritsagara. ) hundred girls, but they refused to satisfy his desire. So
GHOSAYATRAPARVA. A sub-Parva, Chapters 236- he cursed them to become crooked or bent down in body.
251 of the Vana
Parva. The procession made by Duryo- Later on, Brahmadatta, son of the sage Culi, straightened
dhana and others to the Pandavas who lived in the their bodies and married them. (Valmiki Ramayana,
forest forms the theme of this sub-Parva. Bala Kanda, Canto 32),
GHRANASRAVAS. An attendant of Skanda. Always 5) Birth of Rum. On another occasion Ghrtaci attract-
immersed in yoga he worked for the welfare of brah- ed and subjugated a King called Pramati. Ruru was the
mins. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 57) . son born to Pramati by Ghrtaci.
GHRTA. A King of the Aiiga dynasty. He was the son 6) Other information. (1) Once Ghrtaci pleased Sage
of Gharman and father of Vidusa. (Agni Purana Astavakra, who introduced her into Kubera's assembly.
Chapter 277) .
(Anusasana Parva, Chapter 19, Verse 44).
GHRTACI. (2) Ghrtaci danced at the birthday celebrations of
1 ) General. She was an exceptionally beautiful apsara Arjuna. '(Adi Parva, Chapter 122, Verse 65).
woman, and she revelled in disturbing the peace of
(3) A daughter called Citrahgada was born to Visvakar-
the sages and becoming mother of children by them. man by Ghrtaci. (See under Visvakarma) .
from Narada, he reached the peaks of Mahameru and GHRTAPRSTHA. A son of Priyavrata, brother of
worshipped Mahadeva and Mahadevi for one year Utta.napa.da. Svayambhuvamanu had two famous sons
with the one-syllabled mantra OM
which is the very called Priyavrata and Uttanapada. Priyavrata, the elder
seed of word. By now the great tejas (effulgence) of son, married two daughters of Visvakarmaprajapati
Vyasa lighted up the whole world and Indra got ner-
.
called Surupa and BarhismatI, and of Surupa were born
vous and upset. The great Lord Siva appeared on the ten sons called Agnldhra, Idhmajihva, Yajnabahu,
scene and blessed Vyasa that he will have a son who Mahavira, Rukmasukra, Ghrtaprstha, Savana, Medha-
would become a very wise man, very much interested tithi and Vitihotra, and also one daughter called
in helping others, and very famous also.
Vyasa returned Orjasvatl. (Devibhagavata, 8th Skandha).
gratified to his asrama. One day, while in the process GHRTAVATI. An important river in India. (Bhisma
of preparing the sticks for producing Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 23)
fire, thoughts .
GHRTEYU GODILA II
GHRTEYU. A King born in the Anga dynasty. (Agni disguise and engaging Jarasandha in a duel killed him
Purana, Chapter 277) . and crowned his son as King. (Chapter 24, Sabha
GHURTiJIKA. Foster mother of Devayanl, daughter of Parva) Once King Duihdhumara abandoning the gifts
.
Sukracarya. (Adi Parva, Chapter 78, Verse 25). offered by the devas came and slept in Girivraja.
GILGAMlS. It is the most ancient book of the Babyloni- (Sloka 39, Chapter 6, Anusasana Parva).
ans. It is as old as Rgveda. Another book so old as GlTA. See under Bhagavad Gliii.
these is the "Book of the Dead" of the Egyptians. (See GITAPRIYA. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 7,
of the kingdom of Uparicara. Once the mountain GlTHA. A King of the Bharata dynasty. (5th Skandha,
Kolahala driven by amorous desires subdued Suktimatl.
Bhagavata) .
The next morning on finding no river in its place the GO. (GAU) A wife of sage Pulastya. Vaisravana was
.
people were surprised. The news reached the ears of the born of her. The son left his father and went to
King. He became furious and rushing to the mountain Brahma. (Sloka 12, Chapter 274, Vana Parva) .
gave it a hard kick. It created a hole in the mountain GOBHANU. A King who was the grandson of Turvasu
and the river flowed through it. But by that time of the Puru dynasty and son of King Varga. Gobhanu
Kolahala had got a son and a daughter of Suktimatl. had a son named Traisani. (Chapter 277, Agni Purana) .
Greatly pleased at the King for setting her free from GOD A. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 28, Chapter
Kolahala, Suktimatl gave her children to the King. The 46, Salya Parva) .
King brought up the son and made him the chief of his GOD ANA. In ancient India it was believed to be a very
army. The girl was brought up and named Girika and great deed of moral merit to give cows as gifts. If one
when she was of marriagable age the King married her. buys cows with the hereditary wealth and gives them
When once Girika was havirtg her monthly period the as gifts one would reach an ever prosperous world and
even one who buys cows with the money received by
King was forced to go to the forests for hunting. While
in the forests he saw the animals having sexual acts and gambling and gives them as gifts would live for several
as he thought of Girika at home he had emission. He years enjoying prosperity. (Chapter 73, Amis' asana
never wanted to waste the seminal fluid. He wrapped it Parva) .
in a leaf and sent it to his wife through a kite. Another GODAVARl. A river of South India. This river has
kite thinking it to be something to eat attacked the packet been much in the Puranas.
glorified
and it fell into a river down below. A fish swallowed it (1) Godavari is a member of the court of Varuna.
and laterwhen a fisherman caught it and opened its (.Sloka 20, Chapter 9, Sabha Parva) .
belly a boy and a girl came out of it. The girl was (2) This river originates from Brahmagiri, situated
Satyavati mother of Vyasa. (10th Skandha, Devi near Tryambakajyotirlinga of Nasik district in South
Bhagavata) . India. The river is very deep and is a giver of pros-
GIRINATHADlKSITA. 'See under Gunanidhi. perity to those who worship her. Many sages worshipped
GIRIPRASTHA. A mountain of the country of Nisadha. this river. (Sloka 2, Chapter 88, Vana Parva) .
Indra once hid himself on this mountain. (Sloka 13, (3) If one bathes in this
river one will get the benefit
Chapter 315, Vana Parva) . of conducting a Gomedha yajna. Not only that, after
GIRIVRAJA. A city which has gained great importance his death he will go to the land of Vasuki. (Sloka 33,
in all the Puranas of India. Chapter 85, Vana Parva).
1
) Origin. There was once a King named Ku.sa in the (4) The origin of Agni is from Godavari. (Sloka, 24,
Puru dynasty. (For genealogy see under 'Gadhi'). Chapter 222, Vana Parva).
This Kusa begot of his wife, Vaidarbhi, four sons (5) Sri Rama, Laksmana and Sita stayed for a long
named Kusamba, Kusanabha, Asurtarajasa and Vasu. time during their exile in Pancavati on the shores of
Each of them built a city of his own and started his this river Godavari. (Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya
rule there. Girivraja is the magnificent city built by Kanda, Sarga 1
6) .
Vasu. (Sarga 32, Bala Kanda, Valmlki Ramayana). (6) Godavari is one of the most important rivers of
2) Jardsandha's rule. Vasu had a son named Brhadratha India. (Sloka 14, Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva) .
and Jarasandha was the son of Brhadratha. During the (7) He who Godavari will be prosperous.
bathes in
rule of Jarasandha Girivraja became glorious like (Sloka 29, Chapter 25, Anusasana Parva) .
Nandanodyana. This city lying in the midst of five GODHA. A village in the north-east part of ancient
mountains was the seat of prosperity then. (Chapter 21, India. (Sloka 42, Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva) .
hundred times and threw it from Girivraja to Mathura. GODILA II. A servant of Vaisravana. Once when
Sri Krsna, Bhimasena and Arjuna entered Girivraja in Godila was travelling by air he saw PadmavatI, wife
GOHARAl^APARVA 293 GOKARNA
of Ugrasena, King of Vidarbha, bathing in a pond abandon all hisworldly pleasures and accept sannyasa
along with her companions. The very sight of the for the restof his life. But Atmadeva was not to be
enchanting Padmavati roused carnal passions in him discouraged by this prophecy and he urged the
and the Yaksa took the form of Ugrasena and started sannyasin to help him somehow to get a child. The
singing from the top of a hillock nearby. Padmavati sanyasin then gave him a fruit and asked him to give it
went to him because she mistook him for her husband. to his wife and ask her to observe a life of fasting for a
Embracing her passionately the Yaksa outraged her period of one year.
modesty. Subtle differences in the act created doubts Greatly pleased with this boon Atmadeva returned to
in Padmavati and, 011 being questioned, the Yaksa told his house and told his wife all that had happened and
the truth and left the place. (Chapter 49, Padma gave her the fruit. She liked to eat the fruit but a
Pur ana) .
year's fasting seemed troublesome to her. She was
GOHARA1VAPARVA. A sub-divisional Parva of thinking of how to getover this difficulty when her
Mahabharata. See under 'Mahabharata'. younger sister came to her and suggested a plan. She
GOHATYA. In ancient India killing of cows was con- said "Sister, I am pregnant. give you the
I shall
sidered to be a great sin. It is interesting to note the child I deliver. You can declareyour child and
it as
punishment prescribed for this crime in the Agni make your husband believe so. You can announce in
Purana. For one month he should drink barley water public that you have eaten the fruit and have conse-
only. He should live in a cow-shed wearing the hide of quently become pregnant. We
can, to test its merit,
the cow he has killed. He can have some supper and give the fruit to a cow." Dhundhuli liked the plan very
that too without salt. He must bathe for two months in much and so did everything like that.
cow's urine. During day time he should follow the cows The news that Dhundhuli was pregnant spread in the
looking after their comfort. He should drink the city. Very soon her sister gave birth to a child and
menstrual discharge with his face lifted upwards. that child was proclaimed as the child of Dhundhuli. On
Fasting, he should give away as charity ten cows and a the pretext that Dhundhuli was short of breast-milk her
bull. If not, he should give as charity all his wealth to sister started doing the breast-feeding. The child was
god-fearing brahmins. If a man only stops the cow for named Dhundhukari.
others to kill he should bear a fourth of the punishment; After three months the cow that ate the fruit delivered
if he stops and ties it for killing he should bear half of a child. The ear of the child was like that of a cow
the punishment and if he stops it, ties it and gives the and so he was called Gokarna. Dhundhukari and
weapon for killing he should bear three-fourths of the Gokarna grew together. Dhundhukari became a very
punishment. (Agni Purana, Chapter 159), evil-natured boy while Gokarna grew into a scholarly
GOKHALI. One of the disciples in the tradition of one. Dhundhukari who was the very seat of everything
Vyasa. He was
the direct disciple of Sakalya. Sakalya bad made- the life of their parents wretched and the
divided the branch of Veda he received into six and disappointed Atmadeva renounced all and went to the
gave one to each of the following six disciples : forests and did penance and attained moksa. Unable
Valgayana, Maudgalya, Sali, Adisisira, Gokhali, and to bear the torture by her son, Dhundhuli committed
Yatukarna. (Skandha 12, Bhagavata). suicide by jumping into a well. Gokarna started on a
GOKARTvTA I. See under Gokarna. pilgrimage.
GOKARIifA II. An incarnation of Siva. In the seventh Dhundhukari lived in his own house surrounded by
Varahakalpa Siva was born as Gokarna and he then prostitutes. Thieving was his only means of livelihood.
got four sons named, Kasyapa, Usanas, Cyavana and Knowing this the servants of the king started to capture
Brhaspati. (Satarudrasarhhita, Siva Purana). Dhundhukari and the prostitutes who lived with him,
GOKARiyA. In the great battle Karna sent a serpent- for their safety, bound Dhundhukari with ropes and put
missile against Arjuna. The serpent named Asvasena him into fire and killed him. The soul of Dhundhukari
was the power behind the missile and Gokarna was the became a great phantom. Hearing the news of the
mother of that serpent. (Sloka 42, Chapter 90, Kama death of his brother, Gokarna returned home. He
Parva) . conducted a sraddha at Gaya to give peace to the soul
GOKARIVA. A sacred place of Puranic importance of his departed brother. But the phantom of Dhundhu-
situated on the extreme north of Kerala. kari .
was not pacified. This phantom troubled him
( 1) Origin. There was once on the banks of the river, always. Gokarna was not afraid of it and asked him
Tuhgabhadra, a village made sacred and prosperous by what he wanted and the phantom pleaded that in some
the brahmins who lived there. In that
village lived a way Gokarna should get him absolved of all his sins.
noble brahmin named Atmadeva. His wife was a Gokarna then consulted Pandits to know what method
quarrelsome woman named Dhundhuli. Even after many should be adopted to save a soul which could not be
years of married life they got no children and saved even by a Gaya-Sraddha. The Pandits advised
Atmadeva, greatly grief-stricken, left his home and him to do penance to propitiate the Sun. The Sun who
went to the forests. He was sitting on the shore of a appeared before Gokarna as a result of his penance
lake after quenching his thirst from it when a declared that if he did read the entire Bhagavata in
Sannyasin came that way. Atmadeva told him about his ] seven days Dhundhukari
would get moksa. So Gokarna
domestic life and pleaded that he should suggest a way to j performed a Saptaha and among those who assembled
get a son for him. The sannyasin sat in meditation for ,'to hear it was the phantom of Dhundhukari also. The
some time and contemplated on the horoscope of phantom finding no place to ,sit crept into a seven-
Atmadeva and regretfully informed him that according layered bamboo and sat there listening to Gokarna.
to his horoscope he was to have no children for seven When the first day was over the first layer broke and it
successive births. He, therefore, advised Atmadeva to went on like that every day and on the seventh day the
GOKARkT 294 GONANDA
seventh layer broke and when Gokarna finished of
Daksa, acquired great powers by doing rigorous
the twelfth Skandha the phantom rose from the penance in this world. Pandits say that Goloka is the
bamboo to heaven. When it was going to heaven it upper lip, Brahmaloka, the lower lip of Mahavisnu.
looked at Gokarna and told him that his moksa was due (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 347, Sloka 52) .
to the result of his hearing the saptaha reading. When GOMANTA I. A famous mountain near Dvaraka. This
Gokarna asked him why none of the others who heard mountain is known as Goma and Raivataka also. Once
it got it he said that it was because none had heard it Sri Krsna went to see Gomanta and on the way met
with such rapt attention as he had done. Parasurama. (Skandha 10, Bhagavata). Parasurama
Gokarna then conducted another reading of Saptaha and Sri Krsna went together and saw this beautiful
and the people present heard the same with rapt mountain. Vyasa has devoted Chapter 40 of Visnu
attention. When the reading was over, a chariot of Parva entirely for the description of this mountain of
Visnu Vaikuntha descended
from and carried Gomanta. Once Balabhadrarama caught hold of Jara-
away all who heard the reading. The place
those sandha on this mountain but let him off.
where Gokarna sat and read the Saptaha became GOMANTA A place of habitation lying to the
II.
known later as the famous Gokarna. (Chapters 1 to 3, north-east of
ancient India. (Sloka 43, Chapter 9,
Bhagavata Mahatmya). Bhisma Parva).
A King of Ayodhya named
2 ) Mitrasaha and Gokarna. GOMANTA III. A mountain of the island of Kusa.
Mitrasaha became famous by the name of
who (Sloka 8, Chapter 12, Bhisma Parva).
Kalmasapada, became a demon by a curse of Vasistha. GOMATI. (KAUSIKI) A celebrated river of Puranic
.
He attained moksa by living and worshipping God in fame. This is worshipped as a goddess.
the temple at Gokarna. (See under Sivaratri for 1
)
The curse. Karhpa Ramayana states that this river
details) . was KausikI, sister of Vis vamitra. She became a river
3) Gokarna and the origin of Kerala. Brahmanda Purana by a curse.
gives a story associating Gokarna with the origin of Kausiki was married to a sage called Rclka. Once
Kerala. Rclka went to devaloka to see Brahma. KausikI unable
By the request of Bhagiratha the river Gariga fell on to bear the separation followed her husband by her
earth and flowing as different brooks emptied its waters power of chastity. On the way Rclka saw her and
in the ocean. The level of the water in the ocean went cursed her and made her into a river. From that day
up and the temple of Gokarna and the land of Kerala onwards she started running as a river named Kausikl.
were submerged in waters. The sages who were in the See under KausikI. (Bala Kanda, Valmlki Ramayana) .
temple somehow escaped and took refuge on the 2) Other details from the Purdnas regarding Gomati.
mountain Sahya. ParaSurama was doing penance there i) Sri Rama conducted the Asvamedha yaga at Naimi-
then and the sages went to him and told him of their saranya on the banks of this river. (Uttara Ramayana) .
plight. Parasurama went and stood in Gokarna and ii) The sins of those who drink the water of this river
threw an axe to the south. All the land from Gokarna are washed away. (Sloka 20, Chapter 169, Adi Parva).
up to the place where the axe fell rose up from the iii) The devi of Gomati river lives in the court of
ocean to form a piece of land which was named Kerala. Varuna worshipping him. (Sloka 23, Chapter 9, Sabha
(Chapter 97 of Brahmanda Purana). Parva ) .
4) Other Puranic details regarding Gokarna. (i) Bhagiratha iv) Dharmaputra came to this river during his pilgri-
did penance to bring GangadevI to Earth at Gokarna.
mage. (Sloka Chapter 95, Vana Parva).
2,
Chapter Bala Kanda, Valmlki v) Gomati is the wife of Agnideva called Vi.';vabhuk.
(Sarga 12, 42,
Ramayana ) .
Maharsis,Bhutas and Yaksas used to stay at Gokarna to GOMATlMANTRA. A mantra for obtaining blessings
worship Siva. (Sloka 24, Chapter 85, Vana Parva) . from cows. If one recites this mantra standing in the
midst of cows one would get many children and great
v) The holy place of Gokarna is renowned in all the
three worlds (Sloka 15, Chapter 88, Vana Parva) .
wealth and if it is recited by a woman she would get
the affection and love of her husband. (Sloka 42, Chap-
vi) Gokarna is a tapovana also. (Sloka 51, Chapter 6,
ter 81, Anus asana Parva, M.B. ).
Bhisma Parva) .
Parva).
GOKARNI. A follower of Skandadeva. (M.B. Salya GOMUKHA II. An asura who was a follower of an
Parva, Chapter 90; Sloka 42) .
asura called Surapadma. (Asura Kanda, Skanda
GOLAKl. The mother of an Asura named Madhupa. Purana) .
This woman was born from the face of Brahma in GOMUKHA III. Son of Matali, charioteer of Indra.
Krtayuga. (Uttara Ramayana). Chapter 100, Udyoga Parva)
(Sloka 8, .
GOLOKA. A divine world. Mostly cows live in this world GONANDA. A soldier of Skandadeva. Sloka 65, Chap-
which is above all the other worlds. Surabhi, daughter ter 43, Salya Parva).
GOPALAKA 295 GRAHAS
GOPALAKA. A son born to Candamahasena of his wife Savana, Anagha, Sutapas and Sukra. These holy men
Angaravati. Besides Gopalaka he had another son were saptarsis in the third Manvantara. (Chapter 1,
named Palaka. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukha- Visnu Purana) .
Taranga 3)
lariibaka, . GOVARDHANA. A mountain of Ambadi (Gokula) .
GOPALl. I. A nymph. Once when Arjuna went to This is believed to be a form of Krsna. This is called
devaloka this celestial maiden gave a performance in Giriraja also. The residents of Ambadi from time imme-
dancing in his honour. ( Chapter 43, Vana Parva) . morial used to worship Indra for getting rains. But
GOPALl II. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 4, Chap- after the advent of Krsna there came a change in that
ter 46, Salya Parva) . belief. Krsna told them that rains depended on Govar-
GOPARASTRA. A place of habitation in the north-east dhana and it was enough if they worshipped that moun-
part of ancient India. (Sloka 44, Chapter 9, Bhisma tain and so the residents of Ambadi started worshipping
Parva ) . the mountain. Indra got enraged at this and sent heavy
GOPATI A
demon. He was a co-worker of another
I. rains to Ambadi intending to submerge it in water. But
demon named Kalaketu. Sri Krsna killed Gopati on Sri Krsna lifted the mountain over Ambadi like an um-
the banks of the river Iravatl on the mountain Mahen- brella and saved the city from the wrath of
dra. (Chapter 38, Sabha Parva). Indra. See under 'Krsna' for more details. (Dasama
GOPATI II. A deva gandharva. He was born to Ka- Skandha, Bhagavata)
syapa of his wife Muni. (Sloka 42, Chapter 65, Vana GOVASANA. A King of the country called Sivi. The
Parva). This gandharva participated in the birthday daughter of King, Devika, married Yudhisthira in a
this
celebrations of Arjuna. (Sloka 55, Chapter 122, Adi svayarhvara. Once Govasana met in a duel the son of
Parva). Abhibhu, King ofKas"!. (Sloka 38, Chapter 95, Drona
GOPATI III. A son of the celebrated emperor, Sibi. Parva) .
GOPATI IV. A synonym of Siva used in Sloka 151, GOVIKARTA. The man who puts nose-bands on
Chapter 17 of Anusasana Parva bullocks. (Sloka 9. Chapter 2, Virata Parva).
GOPATI V. A synonym of Visnu used in Sloka 66, GOVINDA. A synonym of Sri Krsna (Mahavisnu). He
Chapter 149, of Anugasana Parva. got this name because he saved the people and cows of
GOPAYANA. ThearmyofGopas. (Sloka 13, Chapter Ambadi by lifting the Govardhana mountain and
71. Bhisma Parva). using it as an umbrella. (Daksinatya patha Chapter
GOPIKKURI. See under Urddhvapundra. 38, Sabha Parva) .
GOPTATARA. A place on the northern bank of the GOVINDADATTA. A brahmin of great fame who
river, Sarayu. Sri Rama with his two armies and vehi- resided in Bahusuvarnaka, a city on the banks of the
cles ascended to heaven from this place. (Sloka 10, river Ganga. His wife was a very pious woman. They
Chapter 83 Mahabharata) . had five children. Once when both the parents were
GORATHA. The palace of Magadha. This palace was away from the house a sage called Vaisvanara came
situated on a mountain near Girivraja. (Sloka 30, Chap- there but the children did not receive him and treat
ter 20, Sabha Parva) . him properly. Knowing this Govindaclatta abandoned
GOSAVA. A mahayajna. (Sloka 17, Chapter 30, Vana all his children. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathapithalarh-
Parva) .
baka) .
sukta in the thirteenth anuvaka of the first mandala of GOVRAJA. A soldier of Skandadeva. (Sloka 66, Chap-
Rgveda is composed by this sage. There are many other ter 45, Salya Parva) .
suktas also in his name. This sage is not the Gautama, GRAHAS Indians from very ancient days
(PLANETS).
husband of Ahalya, who made Sukta 58, Anuvaka 1 1 , have maintained certain definite ideas and inferences
Mandala 1 of Rgveda. about the planets. Though those ideas differ somewhat
Once this Gotama tired of thirst asked the Maruts for from the results of modern researches, the influence of
some water. -The Maruts took a huge well to his side the ancient ideas is discernible in all the Puranic texts in
and poured water into a big pot. (Suktas 86, 87, India. The main ideas are summarised below.
Anuvaka 14, Mandala 1, Rgveda). Surya (Sun), Candra (Moon), Sukra (Venus), Budha
It was Asvinldevas who took the well to Gotama. (Mercury), Kuja (Mars), Brhaspati (Jupiter) Sani ,
(Sukta 116, Anuvaka 17, Mandala 1, Rgveda). ( Saturn) Rahu and Ketu are the navagrahas ( the nine
,
May is the uttarayana period, five months from month Candra stays in each of the above houses only
November the daksinayana period, and the months of for 2 days.
April and October are the Visuvats. Since during the The full moon makes Pitrs happy, divides the month
uttarayana the sun rises up comparatively slowly into two halves, Krsna Paksa (the dark fortnight)
(mandagati) during this period the day is longer than and Sukla Paksa (the bright fortnight) and functions
night. As in daksinayana the course of the sun is quic- as the very of all living beings. The twentyseven
life
ker in pace (Sighragati) night is longer than day, and stars from ASvini to Revati are the wives of Candra.
during visuvat, (samagati) day and night are of equal There is another view that Candra has twentyeight
duration. wives including another star called Abhijit. Candra has
The other planets have three positions called Jaradgava, another name, Sarvamaya. Candra with his pleasing
Airavata and Vaisvanara, the first being the central rays, as sweet as Amrta (Nectar) bestows happiness on
position, the second the northern position and the devas, Pitrs and all other living beings. So he is called
third the southern position. Nine stars, Asvini, Bharani, Sarvamaya.
Krttika, Rohini,
Mrgasiras, Ardra, Punarvasu and Candra's chariot has three wheels. Ten beautiful horses
Pusya occupy the Airavata vlthl (northern position white as Jasmine flowers draw the chariot. These
or segment) Another nine stars, Magha, Purva
. horses also like those of Surya live for a Kalpa era.
PhalgunI, Uttara PhalgunI, Hasta, Citra, Svati, Because the Devas drink its digits Candra wanes into
Visakha, Anuradha and Jyestha occupy the central one digit (Kala). Then Surya makes him wax again
position, and the last nine stars, Mula, Purvasadha, with one single ray of his called Susumna. When only
Uttarasadha, Sravana, Sravistha, Satabhisak, Purva- two Kalas of his remain Candra enters the orbit of
prosthapada, Uttaraprosthapada and Revati occupy the Surya and stays there in the ray called 'ama', and that
southern position. day, therefore is called ama.va.sya. And on that day
To the east, south, west and north of Mount Mahameru Candra enters waters for the first time, and after that
exist Devadhanika (Indrapurl) Samyamani (Yamapuri) dwells in trees, creepers etc. While Candra is thus in
ftimlocanl (Varunapuri) and Vibhavari (Kuberapurl) trees etc. those who cut them will be committing the
respectively. When Surya appears in Devadhanika it sin of brahmahatya. (slaughter of a brahmin) When .
will be dawn, when he has travelled to Samyamani it only a little of the 15th kala remains on new moon day
will be noon, when he is in Nimlocanl it will be sunset hordes of Pitrs gather round the enfeebled Candra to
and when he is in Vibhavari it will be
mid-night. This drink him, and they drink the amrta kala, one of the
is how Surya circles the Mahameru. Within 15 nadikas two kalas still remaining with him. Thus the three
(6 hours) the sun travels 2\ crores plus 2\ lakhs of classes of Pitrs, Barhisadas, Saumyas and Agnisvattas
yojanas. Surya's chariot has one wheel and twelve get absolutely satisfied for one month. Thus Candra
spokes. The wheel represents a year and the twelve nurtures Devas in the Sukla Paksa and pitrs in Krsna
spokes stand for the twelve months of the year. The Paksa. and grows trees, creepers etc. with life-giving
chariot has also three nabhis representing the three water. (For details see under Candra) .
They have been granted the boon that everyday they 4) Budha (Mercury). Though inherently auspicious
will be dying though they may not be losing their Budha, in contact with inauspicious planets takes their
bodies. So, everyday there rages a fierce fight between character and becomes weak. Budha also has the three
them and Surya. When the fight is on, noble brahmins paces, quick, slow and medium. Budha moves close to
throw up water sanctified by Gayatri mantra with Surya and if he moves from Surya storms, failure of
'Om'. The water turns into Vajrayudha and burns the rain etc. will be the result. He is considered to be the
Raksasas to ashes. The first offering in Agnihotra is son of Candra. His chariot is made of wind and fire,
made with the recitation of the mantra' beginning golden in colour and is drawn by eight horses having
'Suryojyoti' because of which the sun is able to shine the speed of wind. (See under Budha for more details).
GRAHAS 297
Exposure to fumes produced by burning leopard's teeth During the seventh month Nirahara attacks the child.
and the smearing of the body with a paste made of Bad odour, tooth-ache etc. are the main symptoms.
orris root and cow's dung and urine should also be Bali with fish, flesh etc. is the cure.
done. Yamuna attacks the child during the eighth month. Skin
Sridandi (
female planet) attacks the child on the eighth eruptions etc. are the chief symptoms. No special treat-
ment is
required for this.
night. Wandering of the eyes, crying and also making
a barking noise and quick movement of the tongue During the ninth month KumbhakarnI attacks the child.
are the main symptoms. Bali with fish etc. and smea- Fever, vomiting and abnormal crying form the chief
ring the body with a paste of orris root, mustard seed symptoms. Bali with flesh and liquor is the cure for it.
and garlic are the treatment for the attack. Tapasi attacks the child during the tenth month.
Refusing to eat food and rolling of the eye-balls form
The female planet, Cfrdhvagrahi attacks the
terrible
the main symptoms. Bali on level ground with flesh
child on the ninthnight. Startling, breathing out alone etc. is the remedy for it.
and biting the fists of both hands form the chief symp-
During the eleventh month Raksasi attacks the child.
toms of the attack. Smearing of the body with a paste No treatment is called for.
of red sandalwood, Costus speciosus etc. and exposure Cancala attacks the child during the twelfth month.
to fumes produced by burning the hairs and nail of the
Breathing problems, palpitation etc. are the main
monkey are remedies for the illness. symptoms. Bali during the first half of the day with
Rodani attacks the child on the tenth night. Incessant Kalmasa etc. is the remedy.
crying and bodily fragrance and blue colour are the During the second year of its life the child is attacked
main symptoms of the attack. Exposure to fume pro- by Rodani. Shivering of the body, crying and emission of
duced by burning margosa leaves and application of a blood and urine form the main symptoms. In such
paste made of orris root, tamarind are good remedies. cases bali should be offered with pudding of molasses
Bali should be offered with fried paddy, flesh and and gingelly seeds made into small balls. Also an idol
barley
rice. For thirteen days from its birth the child should should be made of gingelly seeds and it should be
be treated in the above manner. bathed in gingelly water. The child should further
A terrible female planet called Putana attacks the child be exposed to the fumes got by burning the leaves of five
when it is one month old. Crying like the crow, fre- trees.
quent breathing, smell of urine on the body and Catuka (a female planet) attacks the child during the
reddening of the eyes are the chief symptoms of the fourth year. Fever, swellings, and weakness of limbs are
attack. Remedies thereof are as follows the main symptoms. Bai with fish, flesh, gingelly seeds
bathing in
:
cow's urine and exposure to the fumes got by and also fuming form the treatment.
burning
cow's teeth, bali to be offered with yellow clothes, red Pancala attacks the child when it is five years old.
flower, red sandalwood, lamps lighted, three varieties' Fever, weakness of limbs are the symptoms. Bali with
ofpayasa (pudding), liquor, gingelly seeds and flesh. flesh, rice, etc. and fuming with the excretion of sheep
Bali with the above materials should be offered for form the treatment. Bathing in water boiled with
seven days under an 'Ung' tree on the southern side. leaves of jack fruit tree, peepal tree etc. is also good.
Mukuta, (female planet) attacks the child two months Dhavani attacks the child when it is six years old.
old. Coldness of the body, vomiting, parching of mouth Thinning of face, tastelessness of mouth and weakness
etc. are the chief symptoms. Remedy for the attack of limbs are the main symptoms in such cases. Bali for
isoffering of bali with flower, Sandalwood, clothes and seven days with the above-mentioned things and bathing
bread (all black in colour) and lighting^of lamps and in kanjunny (Bhrngaraja creeper) water are the treat-
fuming. ment.
Gomukhi attacks the child, in the third month. Abnor- Yavana attacks the child in the seventh year. Speech-
mal sleep, exessive urination etc. are the main symptoms vomiting, laughing and crying for no apparent
lessness,
of the attack. Bali in the morning with barley, flesh, reason form the symptoms. Bali with liquor, flesh,
milk, rice etc. and exposure to the fumes of ghee at pudding etc. and fuming and bathing form the treat-
noon are the treatment for the illness. To bathe the ment.
child in water boiled with the leaves of five trees is also Jataveda attacks the child in the eighth year. The
good. child refuses food and cries. Bali with cooked gingelly,
GRAMADEVATA 299 GRANTHIKA
gingelly bread and curds, and bathing and fuming form temples in Andhra also. Most of them are Jokulambika
the treatment. temples. In Tamil Nadu there are gramadevatas called
Kala (Kali) attacks the child during the ninth year. Mariyamma, Kaliyamma, and Draupadlyamma. Not
Feelings of fear, roaring etc. are the symptoms. Bali the DraupadI mentioned in the Mahabharata; but the
with gingelly rice, gingelly bread, gingelly powder, KannakI of Cilappadikara is the Devi worshipped in
Kalmasa and pudding form the treatment. Tamil Nadu.
Kalahamsl attacks the child during the tenth year. There are two kinds of Devis called Saptamatrs and
Fever, burning sensation and emaciation are the Saptakanyas. Saptamatrs have purusas (husbands) and
symptoms. Bali for five days with bread called Paulik saptakanyas have seven brothers for help and support.
and rice mixed with ghee, exposure to fumes of margosa Devi puja is very much prevalent in South India. The
leaf and smearing the body with a paste of Kottam custom is supposed to be as old as 5000 B.C. Idols of
form the treatment. Devi have been unearthed from Mohanjo-daro and
Devabhuti attacks the child when it is eleven years old. Harappa. Even the Buddhists worship the Devis called
Then he will utter harsh and cruel words. Bali and Yaks! and Harltl. When in after years Hinduism was
smearing as above form the treatment. revitalised gramadevatas got prompted as the
these
Valika attacks the child in the 12th year. Frequent great Devatas of the epics and the Puranas. The
hiccoughs is the symptom. Treatment is the same as Ramayana mentions the incident of the Devi called
above. Lankalaksml driving away Hanuman. There are famous
VayasI attacks the child when it is 13 years old. All the Kali temples in Ujjayini and Calcutta. It is believed
limbs except the face get emaciated. Treatment is as that in the temple at Cidambaram also Kali occupied
follows bali with red rice, red sandal-wood and red
: a prominent place. But, according to legends, Siva
flowers; bath in water boiled with the leaves of five trees; defeated Kali in a dance competition and ousted her to
and exposure to the fumes of margosa and mustard. her present temple at the outskirts of the city. Camundl
YaksinI attacks the child when it is fourteen years old. is worshipped as the ancestral guardian deity in Mysore.
Awkward physical expressions, stomach-ache, fever and The Kamaksl temple of KancI, Minaksl temple of
thirst are the symptoms. Bali with flesh, rice etc. and Madura and Mukambika temple of North Karnataka
bathing etc. as above form the treatment. may be cited as examples for the worship of the gentle
Mundika attacks the child when it is fifteen years old. form of Devi.
'
apasara dustagrahan hram tadyatha gacchantu grhya- In most of the gramadeva temples idols of the Devas
tam anyatra panthanam rudro jnapayati. (Agni Purana, are not found. A pltha (stool-like seat) is supoosed as
Chapter 299). the seat of the Deva and it represents the Deva also.
GRAMADEVATA. India is predominantly a rural
But, in some temples weapons like the sword,
the club
country with a number of villages, and the rural folk etc. are found. Offerings to the deity in gramaksetras
depend mainly upon agriculture for living. Agricultural and annual festivals are common in such temples. (Nam
land, rain and epidemics which affect them as well as
vanamgurh daivamgal-Tamil) .
called BhagavatI also. Valiyangadi Bhagavati of GRANTHIKA. Name assumed by Nakula during his
Calicut Laksmldevl. Kali temples in Karnataka are
is life incognito at the Virata palace. (Virata Parva,
called 'Kottapurarh Laksmi Ksetras'. There are such Chapter 3, Verse 4) .
GRDHRAKUTA 300 GRHASTHA
GRDDHRAK.OTA. A mountain of northern India. The went to KaM and did penance to propitiate Visv
Larhsuras gave protection to Brhadratha at this moun- and the God appeared before him and blessed him and
tain. (Sloka 82, Chapter 49, Santi
Parva) said "You will soon get a son". Very soon the wife
:
GRDDHRAPATRA. A soldier of Skandadeva, (Sloka of VKvanara delivered a child and the son was named
Chapter 45, Salya Parva) Grhapali. When the child was nine years old Narada
74, .
GRDDHRAVATA. A mount of the Himalayas. This came there once and warned them against fire. Visva-
mount is the abode of Mahadeva. Those brahmins who nara immediately went and did penance to propitiate
visit this place would
get moksa and those of other Siva and obtained from him for his son the
qualities of
castes would be absolved of all sins. (Sloka 91 Chapter fire also so that fire would be unable to act on him. It
84, Vana Parva} .
was on account of this that Grhapati when he installed
GRDDHRIKA. A bird.
Kasyapa begot of his wife an idol of Siva at KaY.I gave it the name of Agnisvara.
Tamra, the six birds
namely Kaki, SyenI, BhasI,
Grddhrika, Suci and Griva. (Agni Purana, Chapter
GRHASTHA. In ancient India the life of a male person
was divided into four ^stages, namely, Brahmacarya
GREEK LITERATURE. Greek is one of the most Garhasthya, Vanaprastha and Sannyasa. He who is in
the second stage of life is called a Grhastha.
important Indo-European languages. As an indepen-
dent branch of the original
Indo-European language
When a person marries, he becomes a Grhastha. The
Greek established itself by about 2000 B.C. Even bride should have certain qualities to be an ideal wife.
during its earliest period Greek had four local dialects The girl should be only a third of the age of the male. .
as a result of the arrival of the She should not have hair either too much or too. little.
Greek-speaking people
at different periods of time. lolic, She should not be black or of a pihgala hue. She
Ionic-Attic, Arcado
Cyprean and western Greek are the four dialects, should not have any of her organs extra at the time of
lolese was prevalent in the Lesbos birth. The following types of girls are to be avoided
region, and this is
the dialect mainly used in the for marriage. ( 1 ) Girls bred up by low-caste people
poetry of Homer. The
Ionic and Attic dialects were prevalent in Ionia and (2) girls with hair over the body(3) not born of a
Attica respectively. After Homer, the
major portion of good family (4) sick ones (5) ill-natured ones (6) girls
Greek literature was written in this dialect. The who use abusive language (7) with hereditary diseases
Arcado-Cyprean dialect was used in Arcadio and (8) with smasru (hair on the face) (9) girls with mascu-
Cyprus. The fourth dialect was also called Doric. line features (10) with the sound of males ( 11) lean
Naval traditions, commerce and political ones (12) with the voice of a crow (13) with thick eye-
power con-
tributed to the growth and lashes (14) round eyes. Again avoid girls having hair
development of Greek
language and literature. In each dialect, even from the on their legs, raised heels and those with small depre-
very beginning, literary efforts were made. Each of the ssions on their cheeks when they laugh. Girls whose
four spoken languages bodies are too bright, with white nails, red eyes and
very soon developed into a
written language. But, in the fat hands and legs are not good for marriage. Girls too
very initial periods each
of the spoken dialects continued its existence in the tall or too short, with eyelashes touching each other,
form of ballads and songs transferred from one man to with broad and raised teeth are to be avoided. A true
another. It was Homer who gave those ballads Grhastha is one who marries a girl who is separated
popular
an epic form and status and sowed the seeds of the from him by five generations on the maternal side and
great literature of Greece. seven generations on the paternal side.
The golden period of Greek literature was when the A true Grhastha should daily worship devas, cows,
city of Athens enjoyed supreme political power. brahmins, scholars, old men and preceptors. He should
Literature during the period set the model for future
worship sandhya (dawn and dusk) daily and also fire.
generations. It was during this period that Greek He should wear on his body leaves of Visnukranti,
achieved the best in different Karuka (couch grass), Tulasi (holy basil plant). He
literary forms like tragedy,
comedy, lyric, elegy, history, philosophy, oratory etc. should appear neat and smart wearing good dress, with
Pindar, Aeschylus, Herodotus, Sophocles-Euripides, white flowers on his well combed head. He should
Aristophanes, Thucydides, Plato and Demosthenes never steal, speak unpleasant words to anybody nor
these are distinguished names who were
responsible for speak an untruth even if it be pleasant. He should not
the great development of the
literary forms referred to openly speak about the sins of others. He should not
above. covet another man's wife. He should not travel in a
Greek literature passed the
Alexandrian, Roman and damaged vehicle nor should he sit under the shade of
Byzantian periods before it arrived at the modern a tree on the banks of a river. A Grhastha should not
It was Solomos and Valoritus and others who
period.
mingle with such persons as (1) men hated by the
gave impetus and inspiration to modern Greek litera- people (2) outcastes from society (3) insane men (4)
ture.
those having a great number of enemies (5) those who
GRHADEVI. Another name of the demoness
Jara. torment others (6) prostitutes (7) husbands of prosti-
(See under Jara). tutes (8) those who use abusive language (9) those
GRHAPATI. A sage. There a story in Siva Purana who (10) spendthrifts (11) scandalmongers and
is
tell lies
about this sage.
rogues. Never travel alone. He should not bathe
(12)
Visyanara father of Grhapati was living with his wife against the flow in a river. Never enter a house on fire
Sucismati in a hermitage on the banks of the river nor climb to the extreme top of trees. He should not
Narmada. They had no children and
Sucismati, was grind his teeth, squeeze out his nose, yawn without
grieved much on this account. She requested herjiusband
covering the mouth, breathe or spit, with the face
find out ways and means to
get a child. Visvanara, covered, laugh noisily, breathe out with a sound, bite
GRlVA 301 GUI^ADHYA
the teeth, pinch grasses or write or draw on the ground Slta to the other side of the river. (Sarga 50, Valmiki
(Ams a 3, Visnu Purana) . Ramayana, Ayodhya Kanda) .
GRlVA. A
daughter in bird form born to Kasyapapraja- Guha is seen next when Bharata comes to the forest in
pati by wife Tamra. Grlva had the following
his search of Rama. When Bhavata returned from Kekaya
sisters, Kakl, Syenl, BhasI, Grddhrika and Suci, all birds. he went in search of Sri Rama and Laksmana and came
(Agni Purana, Chapter 1) .
to Guha in Snigiverapura. Guha then gave Bharata all
GRTSAMADA I. A celebrated sage. He was the son of available information regarding Sri Rama. Guha then
a sage called Vitahavya. Grtsamada was equal to Brhas- sent the Dasa army along with Bharata. (Sarga 84,
pati and a great friend of Indra. Once this sage lec- Ayodhya Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana).
tured to Yudhisthira on the glory of Siva. Many have Guha, chief of Srngiverapura, spent the night with
mistaken Grtsamada for Indra. Once the asuras bound Rama and Laksmana under an Oka tree. (Chaper 6,
him by ropes mistaking him for Indra. He had a son Agni Purana) .
named Kuceta. (For more details see under Varistha) GUHA (S). A tribe of people of ancient India. Andhras,
Pulindas, Cucukas, Guhas, Sabaras and Bhadras are
(Chapters 18 and 30, AnuSasana Parva) .
grew into a great scholar. Nobody was able to defeat (iii) Some of the soldiers who died in the Mahabha-
him in any verbal duel. Once Grtsamada went to the went to the world of the Guhyakas. (Sloka
rata battle
palace of the king of Magadha to attend a Sraddha (an 23, Chapter 4, Svargarohana- Parva) .
offering to the manes) along with Vasistha and others. GULIKA. A hunter who was given moksa by the sage
Atri Maharsi who was present there then spoke sligh- Uttanga. This hunter once made an attempt to steal
tingly ofGrtsamada's parentage and Grtsamada coming the gold plates on the roof of the Visnu temple at the
home questioned his mother. The mother then told him palace of Sauvlra. Uttanga was present at the temple
what had happened and Grtsamada getting angry at the then and, Gulika tried to kill the sage. The sage cursed
immoral act committed by his mother cursed her and him and killed him. Taking pity on him later Uttanga
said "May you be a Kantaka tree". Mukunda also did sprinkled some water from the river Ganga, on him
not leave her son free. She cursed him thus "You will and the hunter attained Vaikuntha. (Naradiya Purana).
have a demon as your son". But Grtsamada went and GUNA. See under Pattu (Ten).
did penance to propitiate Ganapati and got Bra.hman.ya.
GUl^ADHYA. He the author of the celebrated Brhat-
is
GRTSAPATI. He was the son of Kapila, a King of the katha which is a precious mine of Sanskrit Literature.
Puru dynasty. He had a brother called Kausika. Grtsa-
Gunadhya had written this in satariic (paisacika) lan-
pati had sons in all the four castes, namely, Brahmana, guage difficult for ordinary people to read or understand.
Ksatriya, Vais"ya and Sudra. (Chapter 277, Agni This was translated into Sanskrit by the poet Ksemen-
Purana) .
dra in a book called Brhatkathamanjarl. This was the
GUDAKESA. Another name of Arjuna. He got the first translation and it was in an abridged form. Soma-
name because he conquered sleep. (Sloka 8, Chapter deva made a more elaborate translation and it is this
138, Adi Parva). translation that is now known as the Kathasaritsagara.
a moment came late to take the preparation and by the GUft'AVATl II. Daughter born to Sunabha, younger
time she came the others had already consumed the whole brother of Vajranabha. She had an elder sister named
lot. Then by an order of the Candramati. Prabhavati, daughter of Vajranabha, was
King the horns of the
married to Pradyumna, son of Sii Krsna. One day
goat were made into a similar preparation and
Gunavara took it with the dust sprinkled over it. All when Prabhavati and Pradyumna were engaged in
the wives got a< child each. Gunavara's son was named amorous conversation Gunavatl and Candramati came
to them and they expressed a
desire to get husbands
Srrigabhuja.
for themselves from among the Yadavas. Prabhavati
All the other wives of Virabhuja became jealous of advised Candramati to marry Gada, brother of Krsna
Gunavara. They told the King that Gunavara was in and Gunavati to marry Samba, son of Krsna. (Chap-
love with a servant of the palace. The King did not ter 94. HarivaiiK a) .
taught it to Mudgala, Gomukha, Vatsya, Saliya and and studied Samavedasamhita from Hiranyanabha and
Sarlra. Sakapiirna a colleague of Vedamitra divided it
into three and added a division to it by composing a they were called Pracya samagas. (Hiranyanabha is
known as Kausalya also.) Pauspinji had four disciples :
Nirukta of his own. He taught them to Vaitalika,
Balaka and Kraufica. This was how the Indrapramati Logaksi, Kauthurni, Kakslvan and Larigali. These four
and their disciples split their sarhhitas and increased
Samhita produced branches and sub-branches. Baskala
them. Krti, one of the disciples of Hiranyanabha,
divided his sarhhita into another set of three and taught
it to Kalayani, Gargya, and Kathajava. The sages
taught his disciples twentyfour sariihitas. They also
mentioned above are the ones who spread Rgveda in split them into many more and made the Samaveda
the world. bigger.
The saints of Atharvaveda. Vyasa taught Atharvaveda
3) Saints of Tajurveda. Vaisampayana, disciple of Veda 7)
to Sumantu. Sage Sumantu taught it to his disciple
Vyasa, made twentyseven divisions of Yajurveda and
Kabandha first. Kabandha split it into two and gave
taught them to his disciples. Among those disciples was
one each to his disciples: Devadarsa and Pathya. Deva
Yajnavalkya, son of Brahmarata. The branch Taittiriya
had four disciples: MedhaBrahmabali, Santakayani and
originated from Yajnavalkya. .
4) The Taittiriya branch. Once all the sages learned in Pippalada. Pathya had three: Jabali, Kumuda and
the Vedas made a decision. He who does not attend the Saunaka. All these made samhitas. Saunaka split his
samhita into two and taught one to Badru and another
Brahmasamaja meeting held at the mountain of Maha-
meru will be tainted with the sin of Brahmahatya to Saindhava. Munjikes"a learnt it from Saindhava. He
(murder of a brahmin). At one time VaiSampayana split it into two first and then again into three. The five
was not able to attend and so was charged with the sin samhitas of Mufijikes'a namely, Naksatrakalpa, Veda-
of Brahmahatya. He called his disciples to his side and kalpa, Sarhhitakalpa, Arigirasakalpa and Santikalpa are
toldthem that they should observe a Vrata to absolve the most important divisions of the Atharvaveda. The
Vaisampayana- of his sin. Then one of his disciples, Naksatrakalpa contains methods of worshipping Nak-
satras; the Vedakalpa contains the rites of the Rtvik
Yajnavalkya, stood up and said that he would observe
the vrata alone and that there was no need of anybody Brahma, and the Sarhhitakalpa contains the science of
else in that matter. When asked why he said so he the care of horses and elephants.
replied that none of the colleagues of his was so bril- 8) Puranas. Vyasa compiled a Purana samhita using
liant and majestic as he was. Vaisampayana did not speeches, appendices, poems and Kalpanirnayas and tau-
like this arrogance of Yajnavalkya and so angrily ght it to Romaharsana alias Suta. Suta had six disciples
commanded Yajnavalkya to give back all that had been named Sumati, Agnivarcas, Mitrayus, Samsapayana,
taught to him by Vaisampayana. Obeying orders Yajna- Akrtavrana, and Savarni. Akrtavrana, Savarni and Sam-
valkya vomited all the yajus and went away from the apayana born of Kasyapagotra have themselves made
s'
place. The other sages taking the form of the bird, Puranasarhhitas. There is another sarhhita composed
Tittiri, accepted the vomited yajus. Therefore that by Romaharsana based on the samhitas made by the
branch of the Veda got the name of Taittiriya and above three.
those sages were known as the Taittirlyas. Visnu Purana is based on the latter four samhitas. There
5) Ayatayama (s ) On his leaving Vaisampayana
. are eighteen Puranas, namely, Agneya, Brahma, Brahma-
Yajnavalkya put into operation a new set of Yajus nda, Brahmavaivarta, Bhagavata, Bhavisya, Garuda,
called Ayatayama unknown even to Vaisampayana. Kurma, Linga, Markandeya, Matsya, Naradlya, Padma,
This was how it happened. Yajnavalkya after leaving Siva, Skanda, Vamana, Varaha and Visnu. There are
the Brahmasamaja went and did penance to propitiate eighteen sub Puranas also. In all these are described the
the Sun-god. The Sun appeared before him in the form creation, the deluge, the dynasties of the devas, history
of a horse. Yajnavalkya then requested him to grant of kingly dynasties, changes of generations etc. (Amsa
him new yajus unknown even to Vaisampayana. 3, Visnu Purana; 12th Skandha. Bhagavata).
GULMA 306 HAMSADHVAJA
GULMA. See under Aksauhinl. HALAYUDHA. A Sanskrit poet who lived in the 10th
GULMAKA. The uncle of Gunadhya. Gunadhya is the century A.D. A mahakavya called Kavirahasya is his
author of the famous book 'Brhatkatha'. In the city of most important work The hero in the great poem is
Supratisthita there was a brahmin named Somasarmu Krsna III. A King of the Rastrakuta dynasty, and poet
who had three children, namely, Vatsa, Gulmaka and Halayudha was a courtier of his.
Srutartha. Gunadhya was the son of Srutartha (Tarariga HALIKA. A prominent naga born in the Kasyapa
6, KathapUhalarhbaka, Kathasaritsagara) .
dynasty. (Adi Parva, Chapter 15).
HALIMA. One of the Saptamatrs (seven mothers).
H (Vana Parva, Chapter 22, Verse 10).
(
HALlMAKA. A naga born in the family of Vasuki. He
H two meanings was burnt to death in the serpent yajfia of Janamejaya.
(j). This letter has (1) Under- :
(3) Haha welcomed Arjuna in the Devaloka when HAMSA A son born to Kasyapa of his wife,
II.
once he visited the place. (Vana Parva, Chapter 43. Arista. He was a Gandharva and it is believed that
Verse 14). Dhrtarastra was an arhsavatara of this Gandharva.
HAIHAYA. A King, the son of Vatsa, born in the (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 6, See also under Arils' a-
dynasty of Saryati. He was the founder of the Haihaya vatara) .
Siva) defeated them after a fierce fight lasting for a He died there, in Patala of snake-bite. (Harivariisa 3,
thousand years. The Hariharas returned to their abodes 128).
and spoke about their achievements. Their wives laugh- 5) Grief of Jarasandha. Hariisa's death caused much
ed at the bravado of their husbands. At this Maha- grief to Jarasandha, and for many years after it, he shed
vi?rm got angry with LaksmI and Siva with Parvati, tears over the death of his friend. Even at the time
and in protest the Devls left their husbands. From when Bhimasena, during his triumphal tour of the east,
that day onwards Visnu and Siva began losing their attacked Jarasandha he remembered the dead Harhsa
power. Brahma, who divined the reason for the growing and Dimbhaka. (Sabha Parva, 13, 37).
weakness of Visnu and Siva persuaded LaksmI and HAMSA (M) Swan. For story about the origin of
.
Parvati to return to their husbands so that they might harhsa on earth see under Srsti, Para 12.
regain their former power. Yet, Brahma told them that HAMSACODA. A Yaksa, who worships Kubera in his
in future he alone would handle the work of creation. assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 17).
Thus was Visnu and Siva divested of their right to HAMSADHVAJA. A King of Campanagari, who
creation. (Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha) . was a great devotee of Visnu. During his reign
HAMSAJA 307 HANftMAN
monogamy prevailed in the country. He took the with her. After that Vayu (Wind-god) also had coitus
yajiiichorse of Yudhisthira captive, and in the fight to with her. Thus as a result of the sexual act by both
release the horse Arjuna killed Sudhanva and Suratha, the Devas Anjana got pregnant. Later, Anjana was
sons of Haihsadhvaja. Grieved and enraged at their about to throw into the valley of the mountain her
death Hamsadhvaja took the field against Arjuna, and new-born child as it was an ugly one when Vayu
Sri Krsna finding that Arjuna's life was in danger ( Wind god) intervened and saved the child. Hanuman
pacified them both. Also Krsna requested Hamsadhvaja was the child thus born of Siva and Vayu. (Bhavisya
to be a supporter of. Arjuna in future. Hamsadhvaja
Purana, Pratisarga Parva).
had five sons called Suratha, Sudhanva, Sudarsa, was Siva. Ganapati
(4) Hanuman's actual father
Subala and Sama. (Jaimini, Aivamedha Parva, 17, was born to Siva and Parvati as they played in the
21). forestdisguised as elephants. After that Siva and
HAMSAJA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (Salya Parva, Parvati played about in the forest disguised as monkeys
Chapter 45, Verse 68) .
as a result of which Parvati got pregnant. Since
HAMSAKAYA. A Ksatriya by caste, Harhsakaya was Parvati did not like the idea of being the mother of a
present at the rajasuya of Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, monkey, Siva, by his yogic power entrusted the child,
Chapter 52, Verse 14). (in embryo) that was in the womb of Parvati to
HAMSAKUTA (M) A mountain between
lying
Vayu (Wind god), who carried it with him hither and
.
Thinking that the glowing and glittering Sun was food 6) Sivalingaat Ramesvaram. There is a story in the
for him be eaten, the monkey child made just one
to Yuddhakancla of Ramayana connecting Hanuman with
jump at it (Sun) and quite neared it. But seeing Rahu, the Sivalinga installed in the temple at Ramesvaram.
bigger than the Sun he jumped at it. Then it was that (See under Ramesvaram) .
it saw Airavata and it tried to eat it. And, seeing this 7) Lost his divine power. Once due to a curse of sage
attempt of the monkey-child, Indra used his vajrayudha Trnabindu Hanurnan lost his great strength and vita-
(Thunderbolt) against it. The weapon hit its chin and lity. But, he would regain the lost power when one
wounded it, and in precarious condition it fell down reminded him of it. During the- search for Sita Hanu-
on earth. Vayu (Wind god) who saw his child falling man felt it difficult to jump across the southern sea to
down wounded carried it off to Patala. Lanka due to the above curse. But, when Jambavan
When Vayu (air) quitted the earth everything thereon described to him about his noble origin and powers
came to a dead-stop. Living things were on the verge Hanuman regained his lost power and and
vitality,
of death due to suffocation. And, then Brahma and successfully jumped across the sea to Lanka. (See
others went to Patala, comforted Vayu and congratu- Trnabindu II, Para 2).
lated the monkey child. On the basis of Indra's vajra 8) A fort made of tail. He made a fort of his tail and
having made a scar on its hanu (jaw-bone or chin) the saved Rama and Laksmana within it. (See Patala-
monkey child was named Hanuman by the Devas, who,
one by one blessed him as follows :
9) Hanuman and Sahasramukha Ravana. (See Sahasra-
Brahmadeva ; May you live long, so long as Brahma mukha Ravana).
exists. 10) Hanuman and Salrughna Satrughna, who conducted
.
and speed. Brahma blessed Hanuman again giving him 11) Taken captive by Kusa and Lava. The Yajnasva
more physical power than Garuda and Vayu blessed (sacrificial horse) of the Asvamedha yajiia of Sri Rama
him to have more speed than himself, (air). (Valmiki led by a contingent of Rama's army was resting in a
Ramayana, Balakanda, Canto 15; Uttararamayana; tent put up near the hermitage of Gautama when Kusa
Kambaramayana, Purvakanda; Adbhutaramayana). and Lava together captured the horse. Hanuman, who
3) Education. Being born of Siva and on account of rushed over to the spot on receiving intimation of the
the Sivasakti in him, Hanuman reached boyhood news was bound hand and foot with creepers by Kusa
immediately. To learn the four Vedas and the six and Lava and dragged to the hermitage. Sita, was then
sastras he chose Surya mentally as his preceptor, and in the hermitage brooding over the past, and the re-
approached him with the request to be taught the petition of the word 'Rama' by the humiliated Hanuman
Vedas etc. Surya agreed to have Hanuman as his dis- awoke her from her reverie. She was taken aback to
.
ciple subject to the condition that the latter would not see Hanuman there in that plight and got him released
be permitted with the Balakhilyas inliis (Surya's)
to sit from captivity by her sons. (Kamba Ramayana,
chariot and study. Hanuman agreed to the condition Uttarakanda) .
to learn from Surya walking in front of him. With 12) Old age. Having witnessed Ramavatara (incar-
book opened in his hand and concentrating all his atten- nation of Rama) very end, Hanuman, who had
to its
tion on the face of Surya Hanuman traversed the sky by now become quite old, spent his days guarding the
and within a short period of sixty hours he mastered all Kadall forest. Bhlma, who happened to go there to
the Vedas and the sastras thoroughly well. Though collect Saugandhika flowers got defeated in fight by
Surya said that he would consider the great interest Hanuman. (See Bhima, Para 7) .
Hanuman took in his studies as daksina (tuition fee) 13) Arjuna 's flag-Symbol (See under Arjuna 17 B).
Hanuman wanted Surya to accept something more
by 14) Idols of Hanuman. When an idol of Hanuman is
way of daksina, and Surya said as follows "If you : installed in a temple, he must be represented as holding
are so very particular about offering me something Vajra in one hand and his feet must seem to tear the
more as daksina I shall tell you. son Sugrlva is My ground under them. (Agni Purana, Chapter 51).
living on earth with Bali and he is not as strong and HANYAMANA. A famous place in south India
powerful as Bali. You be of help to Sugrlva as his mentioned in the Puranas. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9,
minister and constant companion." Verse 69).
Happy at Surya's words Hanuman returned to the HARA I. A famous Danava, born to Kasyapa of his
forest and lived as Sugriva's minister for the rest of his
wife Danu. He was reborn as King Subahu. (Adi
life.
Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 23) .
sthira's Rajasuya with presents. (Sabha Parva, Chapter HARIMEDHAS. A saintly King of ancient days. He
51, Verse 54). once conducted a yajua and a daughter called Dhva-
HARAKALPA. One of the sons born to Vipracitti by javatl was born to him. She lived in the western regions
SimhI. Parasurama killed him. (Vayu Purana, 68, 19). ' (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 110, Verse 13) .
HARAKEYURAKA. See under Lavana. II HARIMITRA. A brahmin, who had his asrarna on the
HARAVA. An asura born from the tear drops of banks of the Yamuna. Owing to his association with
Brahma. He was burnt to death in the flames emerging Harimitra a sinner called Vikundala took his bath
from Sivalinga. (Skanda Purana, 5, 2, 48). in the sacred waters of the Kalindl during two Magha
HARDIKA I. A Ksatriya King born from an aihsa of months. The first bath released him from all his sins
the asura called Aiivapati. (Adi Parva, Chapter 67, and the second bath made him eligible to go to heaven.
Verse 15). Thus Harimitra was responsible for the attainment of
HARDIKA II. Krtavarman. He was called Hardika heaven by the sinner Vikundala. (Padma Purana, Adi
because he was the son of Hrdika of the dynasty. Yadu Khanda, Chapter 31).
(See under Krtavarman) .
HARITiLA. A naga which belonged to the Airavata
HARI I. A
synonym of Visnu. (See under Visnu .
family. It was burnt to death at the Sarpasatra of Jana-
HARI II. A
warrior of Subrahmanya. (Salya Parva,
mejava. (Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Verse 11).
Chapter 45, Verse 61). HARIIVASVA. A King in ancient India. He once got
HARI III. A
warrior who fought on the side of the
from King Raghu a sword with divine powers which he
Pandavas and was killed by Kama.
HARI IV. An son of Tarakaksa, who got
the presented to King Sunaka. (Santi Parva, Chapter 166).
asura,
from Brahma a boon enabling him to prepare Mrtasaii- HARIRI. A daughter of Hiranyakas ipu, also called
Rohinl. She was married to Visvapati, ah Asura.
jivani. (a medicine to revive dead people) (Karna .
equal in prowess to Indra in war he got into the hands HARISCANDRA I. A King of the solar dynasty very
of his enemies and was killed. (Drona Parva, Chapter much reputed for his unique truthfulness and integrity.
52, Verse 27) . He was the son of the famous Trisariku.
HARI VI. A particular sect of the attendants of Ravana. 1
) Genealogy. See under Trisaiiku.
They attacked the army of monkeys. (Vana Parva, 2) A brief life-sketch. To keep his plighted word and
Chapter 285) . for the sake of truth he gifted away the whole of his
HARI VII. A
very powerful bird born in Garuda's kingdom to Visvamitra. When that was not sufficient
dynasty. (UdyogaParva, Chapter 101, Verse 13). he cleared his debts to Visvamitra with the money got
HARI VIII. A
particular species of horses. They by selling his wife, Candramati, his son, Lohitasva and
possess long hairs on the neck and are golden in colour. finally himself. And, he earned his livelihood with the
(Drona Parva, Chapter 23, Verse 13). wages he got for cremating corpses, himself doing
HARI IX. A daughter born to Kasyapaprajapati by his duties as guard at a burning ghat and as the slave to a
wife Krodhavasa. Lions and monkeys originated from Candala. Ultimately the Trimurtis (Brahma, Visnu and
this Hari. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranyakanda, Canto Siva) appeared and heaped on him all the boons he
14). desired and rewarded him with high honours. (See for
HARI X. A son of Dharmadeva. Dharmadeva begot details para 4 under Visvamitra).
four sons, Hari, Krsna, Nara and Narayana of the dau- HARISCANDRA II. An emperor of ancient times, to
ghters of Daksa. (Devi Bhagavata, 4th Skandha) . whom Brahma gave as a gift a palace which automati-
HARI XI. A
sect ofDevas. During the Tamasaman- cally produced everything desired by its owner. He was
vantara there were four such sects, viz. Haris, lord over the seven islands. About his former birth and
Satyas, Suparas and Sudhls. (See Manvantara) . the plenitude of his riches the Padma Purana (Uttara
HARIBABHRU. A great sage, who was a member of khanda, Chapter 32) has the following story to say:-
Yudhisthira's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Hariscandra himself was surprised that he became so
Verse 16) .
very rich in the matter of children and of wealth.
HARIBHADRA. Daughter of Kasyapa by Krodha. She Wondering what actions of his entitled him to so much
was given in marriage to sage Pulaha and from them wealth and to his position which was equal to Indra's
were born the monkeys, Kinnaras, Kirhpurusas etc. the emperor went to Sumeru by vimana where he
(Brahmanda Purana) .
questioned Sanatkumara, a brahminical sage seated in
HARIDASA. A monkey King, son of Pulaha by Sveta. meditation on a golden stone as to who he was in his
(Brahmanda Purana) .
past life and to which actions of his past life he owed
HARIDHAMA. A sage who was reborn in his
great all the present wealth and prosperity. The great sage
next birth as RangavenI, a gopi in Gokula (Cowherds' replied as follows :-
colony) as he had chanted the Krsna mantra of twenty "In the past birth you were a truthful and pure-
letters during his life as sage. (Padma Purana, Patala hearted vaisya; you gave up your own profession and
Khanda, Chapter 72) . so you were ousted from home by your own people. At
HAR1DRAKA. A naga born in Kasyapa's dynasty. (Adi that time a famine and other scarcity conditions
Parva, Chapter 35, Verse 12). occurred there. One day you got into a pond along
HARIJATA. One of the Raksasa women who kept with your wife, collected lotus flowers from it and went
guard over Sita in the As'oka grove. (Valmiki Rama- to Kasi to sell the flowers. But, no one purchased the
yana, Sundara Kanda, 23, 5) . flowers. At last, Candramati, daughter of Indradyumna
HARISCANDRA III 310 HARYASVA II
purchased the flowers for a yajna she was performing. the Deva-loka to Indra. (Kamba Ramayana, Yuddha
When you saw Visnu installed along with Adityabha- Kanda) .
gavfm (Sun-God) and worshipped with flowers, fee- HAR1VAMSA (M). An appendix to the Mahabharata
lings of devotion swept your mind and you too wor- The main to sing the
in 10,000 verses. is object of it
shipped the idols with lotus flowers. You enjoy today praises of Mahavisnu. It contains three
parts called
the fruits of that action in the past life.
respectively Harivamsa Parva, Visnu Parva, and Bha-
(It is not quite definite whether Hariscandra I and II
visya Parva. Creation of the world, kings of the solar
are one and the same person)
dynasty and of the lunar dynasty, Yadu dynasty and the
.
HARISCANDRA III. A Sanskrit poet who lived in the birth of Sri Krsna form the theme of Harivamsa Parva.
9th century A. I). The mahakavya called "Dharma- Visnu Parva deals mainly with the pranks and games
sarmabhyudaya" is hi? main work. This mahakavya of Sri Krsna in his childhood. Though there occur
comprises of 21 cantos. He has composed another work certain hints about the future at the beginning of the
called "Jivandharacampu". Bhavjsya Parva, the creation of the world, the incar-
HARITA I. A King who was the grandson of Haris"- nation of Visnu as Vamana (Dwarf) and as Narasiiiiha
candra and son of Rohita. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha) . (half man and half lion) , Siva and Visnu constitute its
HARITA II. A King, who was the son of Vapusman main theme.
and grandson of Svayambhuvamanu. He was King of The following verses prove that the Harivarhs a also was
Haritavarsa in the island of Salmali. (Markandeya composed by Vyasa.
Purana 50, 28; Brahmamla Purana, 2, 3). Harivaihsastatah parva-
Verse 7). Once he attended Yudhisthira's assembly HARIVARSA (M) The northern part of Mount Hema-
and spoke on eternal truths conducive to mental peace. parvata. Arjuna, during his triumphal tour of the
That talk of his became famous as Haritaglta. (Santi northern regions conquered this region and took away
Parva, Chapter 278) . a lot of costly gems. (Bharata, southern text, sabha
HARlTA II. An author on Smrtis (codes of conduct) .
Parva, Chapter 28) .
He has written two texts on the subject called Laghu- HARIVlRA. See Dhanasarman.
harita smrti and Vrddhaharitasmrti. HARSA I. One of the three sons of Dharmadeva, the
HARITALA (M) A mineral (yellow orpiment) got other two being Sama and Kama. Harsa married
from mountains, which is red like the clouds at dusk. Nanda. (Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Verse 32).
(Vana Parva, Chapter 158, 94) . HARSA II. A great poet in Sanskrit, who nourished in
HARITASVA. the 12th century A.D., his most reputed work being the
1) General. A King born in the solar dynasty. In the Mahakavya called Naisadha, one of the five Mahakav-
art ofmusic he defeated Narada and shamed SarasvatI yas (Epic Poems) in Sanskrit language. Another well-
(Gcddess of language) pleased Brahma and by the
, known work of his is Khandanakhandakhadya. He was
melody of his music sent Visnu to sleep. The mounting a member of the literary assembly of King Jayacanda
achievements of the King in the art of music evoked ofKanauj. Hira was his father and Mamalladevi, his
jealousy in Sivasankara, the lord of music. When mother.
Sankaramurti in a competitive spirit played the raga HARSA III. King Harsavardhana who ruled over North
Sankarabharana (a particular tune) Haritasva) pointed India between A.D, 660 and 668. He is remembered and
out that Santarasa (
the calmness and poise) which was respected more as a poet in Sanskrit than any thing else.
suited to that raga had given place to raudra rasa Nagananda, Ratnavall and Priyadarsika are his more
which was a serious mistake. Enraged at this Siva important works. The poet Bana has written the biogra-
opened his eye of fire at the King who retorted boldly phy of Harsa.
thus, 'even if the eye of fire was opened a mistake was a HARYA&KA. A King born in the royal dynasty of Aiiga.
mistake'. This stand of the King pleased Siva so much He was the son of King Carhpa and father of King
that he bestowed on the King boons and good wishes Brhadratha. (Agni Purana, Chapter 277).
as presents for his (king's) victory over all. HARYASVA I. The five thousand sons born to Daksa
2) Killed Andhaka. Andhakasura conquered Svarga by his wife Asikni are known as Haryasvas. (See
and took Indra prisoner during the period when Hari- Asikni II) .
tasva was King. The combined efforts of Brahma, Visnu HARYASVA II A King of the solar dynasty. The follo-
and Siva could not kill Andhaka. At last at the ins- wing information about him is culled from the Maha-
tance of Brhaspati a representative of the Devas visited bharata.
Haritasva at Ayodhya and sought his help to kill Andh- (1) He was king of Ayodhya. A Powerful ruler, he
aka and accordingly the King set out for war against had a fully equipped army. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter
the demon. Agastya told the King in secret that Andh- 115. Verse 18).
aka treasured an image of Siva and Parvati in his (2) He took Madhavi, daughter of Yayiiti as his wife
stomach, and after removing, with his arrows the idol and thus solved the problem of gurudaksina for Galava.
from his stomach, Harita'iva killed him and restored (See under Galava) .
HARYASVA III 311 HAYAGRlVA V
(3) Never in life did he eat flesh. (Anusasana Parva, King of the lunar dynasty. (Adi Parva, Chapter 94,
Chapter 11, Verse 67). Verse 59) .
HASTI I. A King born in the lunar dynasty. (Adi the Ganga water, Suvarna, ghee and soma I will be
Parva, Chapter 94 Verse 58). redeemed from the curse.
HASTI II. Another king of the lunar dynasty. His father Bharadvaja complied with the request of Havyaghna
was Suhotra and mother Suvarna, who belonged to the and he got redemption from the curse.
Iksvaku dynasty. This Hasti married Ya.sodhara, dau- HAYAGRlVA I. An Asura, the son of Kasyapaprajapati
ghter of King Trigarta, and a son called Vikantha was by his wife Danu. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranyakanda,
born to them. Hastinapura was the city newly built by Canto 14) .
the boon.
under Hasti II).
HASTIPADA. A Hayagriva, who became haughty and overconfident on
naga born in the Kasyapa dynasty.
receiving such a boon, went about th? three worlds
(Adi Parva, Chapter 35 Verse 9) .
dynasty. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 147, Verse 24) . HAYAGRlVA V. An incarnation of Visnu.
HAVIRDHANA. A grandson of emperor Prthu, who 1
)
In Vedic literature In Vedic literature incarnation
:
had two sons called Antardhana and Vadi and to as Hayagriva is attributed not to Visnu, but to Yajna.
Antardhana was born a son called Havirdhana by But the Taittiriya aranyaka depicts yajna as a proto-
SikhandinI, and they had six sons called Pracmabarhis, form of Visnu. The inference that may be drawn from
Sukra, Gaya, Krsna, Vraja and Ajina. (Visnu Purana, the above is that the root of the Hayagriva story
Part 1, Chapter 14). detailed in Vedic and Puranic literature is one and the
HAVISMAN. A great sage who was a member of the same.
assembly of Indra. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse About the Hayagriva incarnation the Pancavirhsa-
13). brahmana contains the following story.
HAVISMATI. A daughter of Angiras. (Vana Parva, Agni, Indra, Vfiyu and Yajna (Visnu) once began a
Chapter 218, Verse 6) .
yajna on the understanding that the havirbhaga
HAVlSRAVAS. A King born in the family of Kuru, a obtained from it should be divided among all the
HAYAJNANA 312 HIMAVAN
Devas. But, in violation of the agreement, yajiia left HEMAMALI II. A son of King Drupada. He was killed
the place carrying away the whole Yajnabhaga with in the great war by Asvatthama. (Drona Parva,
him, and he drove back the Devas who followed him Chapter 156, 182).
with the help of the bow presented to him by Devi. HEMANETRA. A Yaksa. He worships Kubera in his
Finally the Devas got the string of the bow bitten off assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 17).
by termites and the bow which got straightened up HEMAPRABHA. See under Vallabha.
cut off yajna's head. Yajna then apologized for his HEMAPRABHAVATI. Sec under Varatanu.
offence and then the devas got the Asvinldevas to fix HEMARATHA. A King of the solar dynasty. Grandson
the head of a horse -to the trunk of Yajna. (Panca- of Citraratha, Hemaratha was the son of Ksemii and
viihsabrahmana 7, 5, 6; Taittiriya aranyaka 5, 1; father of Satyaratha. (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha).
Taittiriya Samhitii, 4-9, 1). HEMA VARNA. Son of King Rocamana. He fought in
2) In Purdnic literature. The above story is told in the great war on the side of the Pandavas against the
Skanda Purana with slight modifications as follows :- Kauravas, (Drona Parva, Chapter 23, Verse 67) .
Once Brahma and other Devatas conducted a test as to HERAMBAKAM. A region of South India, the inhabi-
which one amongst them was the greatest, and when tants of which are known as the Herariibas. Sahadeva,
it became evident tha tMahavisnu was,
in every respect, during his triumphal tour of the South defeated the
superior to all the others Brahma
cursed that Visnu Herariibas. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 31, Verse 13).
head. Visnu, who got thus bereft of his
should lose his An Asura. (See under Praheti)
HETI. .
head attended a yajna conducted by the Devas with the HIDIMBA. A Raksasa, whom the Pandavas confronted
. head of a horse attached to his trunk. After the yajna in the forest after their escape from the lac palace.
was over he went to dharmaranya and did tapas there Bhlma killed him and married his sister, Hidiihbl.
and by the blessings of Siva got back his former head Ghatotkaca was Bhima's son by Hidiihbi. (For details
instead of that of the horse. see Ghatotkaca) .
HAYAJNANA. The science of controlling horses. (Vana HIDIMBA (HIDIMBl). Mother of Ghatotkaca. (See
Parva. Chapter 77, 17) .
Ghatotkaca).
HAYASlRAS. Hayagriva. (See Hayagriva V). HIDIMBAVADHAPARVA. A sub Parva of Adi Parva.
HEHAYA (HAIHAYA). See Ekavira and Paras urama) .
(Adi Parva, Chapters 151-155 form the sub Parva).
HEMA. A
lover (wife) of Maya, the asura. (For HIDIMBAVANA (M). The forest where Hidiriiba
details see Maya, Indra, Para 61 and sub para 3 of dwelt. (See Ghatotkaca) .
the sage, Satarcas. Later on he redeemed himself from HIMAVAN. (THE HIMALAYAS).
the sin by giving water to Trita, a brahmin. (Skanda 1) General. The great mountain on the northern
borders of India. In the literature and the religious
Purana).
HEMAKUNDALA. A vaisya.(See Vikundala) . thought of India the Himalayas occupy a position of
A mountain in universal respect and adulation. The Indian belief is
HEMAKUTA (M) I. the North. Arjuna
that the mountain has got a divine soul. ( e. g. it is
once went to Harivarsa after stationing his army here.
referred to as "devatatma" in Kalidasa's Kumarasarh-
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 28) .
felt
(3) Vyasa performed tapas there. (Adi Parva, Chapter
pranks with his wife. Kubera went to the temple for 114, Verse 24) .
(7) 'Arjuna once sojourned on the Himalayas. (Adi (29) The peaks of Himavan have an area of 100
Parva, Chapter 214, Verse 1). yojanas; Brahma once conducted a yajiia there. (Santi
(8) The Devata of the mountain worships Kubera in Parva, Chapter 166, Verse 32).
his assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 10, Verse 31) .
(30) Daksaprajapati once conducted a yajfta at the
(9) As suggested by Surya, once Narada did penance place called Gaiigadvara on the slopes of Himavan.
for 1000 years on the peaks of the Himalayas so that (Santi Parva, Chapter 284, Verse 3) .
he might see Indra's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter (31 ) In Chapter 327 of the Siinti Parva the following
11, Verse 8). statement occurs about Himavan. According to the
(10) Arjuna once crossed the Himalayas and encamped advice of King Janaka Suka brahmarsi mounted the
at Dhavalagiri. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 27, Verse 29) . Himalayas. Siddha-caranas lived on the mountain.
(11) Bhlmasena once stopped for a short time near Celestial women walked all over the place. The moun-
the Himalayas imagining himself to be emperor of the tain always reverberated with the noise of different
whole world. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 30, Verse 4) .
varieties of living beings. The noise produced by Kin-
(12) It was at the Himalayas that Merusavarni impart- naras, peacocks and many other birds could always be
ed advice to Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 78, heard there. Himavan was the permanent abode of
Verse 14) . Garuda. The Astadikpalakas also lived there.
(J3) Bhagiratha performed tapas on the Himalayas. (32) When Suka moved up to the world above it
(Vana Parva, Chapter 108, Verse 3). appeared as though the Himavan was being cut open.
( 14)
The kingdom of Subahu, King of Kalinda was on He saw two divine peaks of mountains on the two
the plains of the Himalayas. The Pandavas stopped sides of the path; one of them was the peak of the
there for a night and left for the Himalayas the next Mahameru and the other that of Himavan. Both the
day. (Vana Parva, Chapter 140, Verse 24). peaks gave way to Suka. (Santi Parva, Chapter 333).
(15) The Pandavas, on the seventeenth day of their (33) Siva desired to secure Uma, the daughter of
life in exile in the forest came to the top of the Himavan as his wife. Meantime sage Bhrgu demanded
Himalayas, and visited the asrama of Vrsaparvan there. that Uma be wedded to him. When Himavan told the
(Vana Parva, Chapter 18). sage that it had already been decided to gave Uma in
(16) was while Bhlmasena was hunting in the
It marriage to Siva, the Sage cursed that there would not
Himalayas and appreciating the beauties there that be, in future, gems in the Himavan. (Santi Parva,
a python caught him by the leg. (Vana Parva, Chapter Chapter 342, Verse 62) .
178). (34) Visnu and Siva once fought with each other on
the Himavan, and then it seemed as though the moun-
(17) Sage Markandeya once saw in the stomach of
child Krsna mountains like the Himalayas, Hemakuta tain was being cleft into pieces. (Santi Parva, Chapter
etc. 188, Verse 112).
(Vana Parva, Chapter 342, Verse 122).
( 8)
1 Much
anterior to sage Markandeya an owl called (35) Narada had his aSrama there, on the Hima^an.
Pravarakarna had lived on the Himalayas. (Vana (Santi Parva, Chapter 346, Verse 3) .
Sri Krsna once visited the aSrama of Upamanyu
Parva, Chapter 199, Verse 4) . (36)
(19) Kama conquered all the kingdoms on the on the Himavan. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 14, Verse
Himalayas and collected taxes from them all. (Vana 43).
Parva, Chapter 254, Verse 4). (37) King Marutta performed a yajna on the Himala-
( 20) On the northern heights of the Himalayas live yas and brahmins went away leaving a lot of wealth
Siva and Parvati for ever. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter there. (Asvamedhika Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 20).
115, Verse 5). (38) Sanjaya left for the Himalayas after Dhrtarastra
(21 ) Himavan is one of the six rain-producing and Gandharl were burnt to death in a wild fire. (Asra-
mountains stretching from the east to the west. (Bhisma mavasika Parva, Chapter 37, Verse 33) .
(23) When Siva burnt to ashes the Tripuras, Himavan HIMGULA. A mineral (vermillion) obtained from
and Vindhya served as the axles of Siva's chariot. mountainous regions. It has the colour (red) of the sky
(Kama Parva, Chapter 34, Verse 22). at sunset. (Vana Parva, Chapter 158,. Verse 94).
(24) The River Gariga deposited Siva's semen on a
HIPPOCRAITUS. A Greek scientist and thinker. Father
high peak of Himavan and Subrahmanya was born from of the Allopathic system of medicine. He has written
it. (Kama Parva, Chapter 44, Verse 9) .
Himavan presented to Subrahmanya two atten- Out of the five elements of the Indian system of medi-
(26)
cine he accepts four, viz. Prthvl (earth ), Ap (Water) ,
dants called Suvarcas and Ativarcas. (Salya Parva, 1
Agni (fire and Vayu (air). Till the 18th century A.D.
*
1 )General. Owing to a curse Jaya and Vijaya who were Patala was none other than Mahavisnu and he chal-
gate-keepers at Vaikuntha were born as two asuras, lenged Visnu to fight. After replacing the earth in its
Hiranyaksa (elder brother) and Hiranyakasipu (youn- old position Visnu fought with Hiranyaksa and killed
ger brother) These brothers are known also as the
. him.
Hiranyas. (See Jayavijayas) .
4) Hiranyakasipu. With the killing of his brother,
2) Birth. Three sons called Hiranyaksa, Hiranyakasipu Hiranyakagipu's hatred and enmity towards Visnu in-
and Vajrariga and a daughter, Siriihika were born to creased very much. He, by doing tapas for very long
Kasyapaprajapad by his wife Did. To Hiranyakas ipu years, secured boons from Brahma and conquered the
were born four sons called Anuhlada, Hlada Prahlada three worlds and ruled them as Triloka Cakravarti
and Samhlada. (Visnu Purana, Part 1, Chapter 15). (Emperor of the three worlds) He prohibited through-
.
There is yet another story relating to the birth of these out the empire not only the chanting of Visnu's name,
asuras. Though the other wives of Kasyapa became but even thinking about him (Visnu) by his subjects.
mothers Did alone was not blessed with a child for a "Hiranyaya namah" (salutations to Hiranya) replaced
long time. One day at dusk while Kasyapa was immers- the old custom of chanting 'Narayanaya namah' (salu-
ed in meditation Dili rushed into his room and began tations to Narayana ) Meantime; a son called Prahlada,
.
lamenting and complaining about her having not yet a great devotee of Mahavisnu was born to Hiranya-
been made a mother, and urgently asked Kasyapa to kasipu. (For the story of Hiranyakas'ipu's death see
make her one. But, Kasyapa pointed out that it was Prahlada). (Kamba Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda; Padma
not the proper time for such things. It was dusk when Purana, Bhumikhanda, Chapter 20).
Siva with his attendants would be out sight-seeing 5) Story about the name Hiranyakasipu. Sage Kasyapa
covered with ashes from burning ghats spread all around once conducted an Asvamedha yajna. A golden seat
by storms. So KaSyapa wanted to wait for some time was put up there for the great sages who came to parti-
more. But, she was not in a mood to pay heed to his cipate in the yajna. Dili was pregnant during
the time
advice and Kasyapa had to yield to her proposal. After of the yajna, and while it was duly progressing she one
obliging her, once again he took his bath and began day came and sat on the above-mentioned golden seat,
meditation. and very shortly she delivered a child. As the child was
Did became pregnant. She also got alarmed about the delivered on the golden seat the child came to be called
indiscretion committed at dusk time that day and, Hiranyakasipu. (Brahmanda Purana, 8, 5, 7-12; Vayu
Kasyapa told her : "Your mind became impure, you Purana 67, 69).
did not obey me, you insulted the Devas also. There HIRANYABAHU. A naga born in Vasuki's dynasty.
are two kids of a very low type in your womb. They He was burnt to death at the sarpa satraof Janamejaya.
will oppress the three worlds and kill innocent people. (Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Verse 6) .
Mahavisnu will never tolerate such tilings. He will HIRANYABINDU. A sacred place near the Himalayas.
incarnate himself to kill them. But since you feel
peni- During his pilgrimage Arjuna visited this place also. A
tent now, a grand-son of yours will become liked by all bath in this tirtha will wash off one's sins. Hiranya-
good people, and he will be a great devotee of Maha- bindu is situated on the top of Mount Kalanjara.
-
visnu. (This was Prahlada). HIRANYADHANUS. A King of forest tribes. Ekalavya,
At any rate, one hundred years after her getting preg- the great master of archery was Hiranyadhanus's son
nant Dili delivered twin sons. The first born was named (See Ekalavya) .
Hiranyaksa and the next one Hiranyakasipu. (Accor- HIRANYAGARBHA. A synonym of Sri Krsna. (Sand
ding to certain Puranas Hiranyakasipu was the first Parva, Chapter 342, Verse 96) .
born) .
HIRANYAHASTA. A son born to princess VadhrimatI
3 ) Hiranyaksa. The boys grew up to become a growing thanks to the blessing of the Asvinidevas. She was
menace to the whole world. Hiranyaksa toured all the married by a eunuch. Sorrow-stricken at such a
three worlds with a club. He besieged svarga. Devas ran marriage the princess requested the Asvinidevas for chil-
away in fear. Hiranyaksa, shaking his club, jumped dren and they gave her a son, (Rgveda, Mandala 1,
from the sky into the sea and engaged himself in the Anuvaka 17, Sukta 116) who was called Hiranyahasta.
sport of thrashing the waves with his club. Years passed He became a sage and married the beautiful daughter
by like this, and at last he went to Vibhavari, the capi- of King Madirasva. (Sand Parva, Chapter 234, Verse
tal of Varuna and challenged him to fight. Varuna 35) .
could be seen the earth, everywhere it was only a vast HIRANYAKSA II. One of the sons of Visvamitra, who
expanse of water. Brahma then meditated upon Maha was a Brahmavadin. (Anusasana Parva. Chapter 4,
visnu, who came out through Brahma's nose in the form Verse 57).
of a tiny boar. It grew up into a very big boar within HIRANYANABHA I. A King born in the solar dynasty.
no time, and jumped from the sky into the ocean, and He was son of Vidhrd and the father of Pusya.
the
within a few minutes it picked up from under the (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha) .
ocean the earth on its tusks and appeared on the surface HIRANYANABHA. II. A son of Srnjaya. A child
of the water. Hiranyaksa understood that the boar, named Suvarnasthivi was born to Srfijaya, but it died
which without the least fear picked up the earth from before long, and then it was Narada who brought it
HIRAJVYAPURAM 315 HRINISEVA
back to life again. After its rebirth the child came to head and thence on Bindusaras, and therefrom flowed
be called Hiranyanabha also. Hiranyanabha lived for in seven tributaries. Three tributaries, Hladini,
1000 years. (Sknti Parva, Chapter 149) . PavanI and Nalini flowed eastwards, Sucaksus, Sita
HIRAIilYAPURAM. A city of the Daityas. The Daitya and Sindhu westwards, and the seventh tributary
woman, Puloma got the city for her children by tapas. followed Bhaglratha. The mortal remains of the sons
Puloma is called Kalaka also. (Certain Puranas aver of Sagara were flooded with its waters, and their souls
that Kalaka was the sister of Puloma) The children of . attained heaven.
Puloma are known as Kalakeyas for whose safety and HOMA. A king belonging to the dynasty of Bharata.
security she did tapas for 1000 years. And, when He was the son of Krsadratha and father of Sutapas.
Brahma asked her to choose any boon she desired, (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha).
Puloma said as follows:- "There should arise no reason HOMADHENU. The cow, which offers milk needed
or cause for my sons to feel sorrow in their life; Devas, for yajfia.
snakes or Raksasas should not kill them and they must HOMAKU^DA(M). The pit for making offerings
have a beautiful city to live in. Brahma granted her all during yajnas. Rules about making the pit are describ-
the boons. Hiranyapura was built by Brahma for the ed in chapter 24 of the Agni Purana as follows:
Kalakeyas to live in. It was full of gems and it could First, demarcate a piece of ground one yard square with
easily travel in the sky. thread and dig it one yard deep. After leaving two arhgulas
When life became impossible for the Devas due to the (inches) space on all the four sides of the pit make three
depredations of the Kalakeyas, Indra brought divisions in it. The three divisions should be 12" X 8" and
Arjuna to Devaloka. As the Kalakeyas were granted the 4" deep; the inner division 12" deep, the middle one 8"
boon that they would not be killed by the Devas, and the one outside of it 4" deep. All the three divi-
Arjuna's help had thus to be sought by Indra. Arjuna sions should be four feet in width. The above three
killed the Kalakeyas and destroyed Hiranyapura. (Vana divisions are called Satvamekhala, Rajomekhala and
Parva, Chapter 1
73) On one occasion Narada gave
.
Tamasamekhala, and this is the pit, viz. Homakunda.
a correct description of Hiranyapura to Matali, the On thewestern side of it a yoni (receptacle) 10 x 15
charioteer of Indra. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 100). arhgulas should be made. Its depth should gradually
HIRA!^YARETAS. One of the sons of Priyavrata, decrease in the descending order 6, 4, 2 arhgulas. In
Hiranyaretas was king of the Kursa island and had shape the yoni will be of the shape of the peepal leaf.
seven sons called Vasu, Vasudana, Drdharuci, Nabhi- (Yoni is that of Sakti the Kunda is her stomach. The
;
gupta, Satyavrata, Vivikta and Vamadeva. (Bhagavata conception about Sakti is that of a woman lying on
5th Skandha) . her back, head towards the east.) The priest performs
.
HIRAl^YAROMAN. A king of Vidarbha who exercised the rites, himself seated to the west of the yoni and his
suzerainty over the southern regions. He was also head turned to the east.
known as Bhismaka. (See Bhismaka) . HOTRAVAHANA. A saintly king, who was the grand-
HIRATilYASARAS. An ancient tirtha of the western father of Amba. under Amba)
(see .
regions. Candra washed off his sins by bathing here. HRADA I. Also called Hlada, a son of Hiranyakas ipu.
(Santi Parva, Chapter 342, Verse 57) . (See under Anuhlada).
HIRANYASR&GAM. An extensive mountain to the HRADA II. A naga. Hrada was also present in the
north of Mount Mainaka, which is to the north company of nagas, which carried the soul of Balabhadra-
of Mount Kailasa. This mountain is said to be rama to Pa.ta.la. (Mausala Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 16).
a mine of gems. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 10 ;
HRADODARA. A Raksasa, who was killed by Subrah-
Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 6, Verse 42). manya in the war between the Devas and the Asuras.
HIRANYASTUPA. A great sage, the son of Angiras. (Salya Parva, Chapter 46, 75) .
(Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 7, Siikta 31). HRDlKA. A Yadava. He was the father of Krtavarman.
HIRAl^YAVARMAN. A king of Dasarna, His daughter (Adi Parva, Chapter 63, Verse 105).
was married by Sikhandi. )See Amba) . HRDYA. A great sage. He lives in the assembly of
HITOPADESA. A book written in Sanskrit on the Indra. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, 13).
basis of the Pancatantra. It is a collection of forty- HRI.
three stories, and twentyfive of the stories are found Birth. One of the 16 daughters born to
1) Svayambhu-
in the Pancatantra. There is also not much difference vamanu by his wife called Satarupa. (Bhagavata, 4th
in the stories, about the origin of the two books. The
Skandha).
author of Hitopadesa is considered to be one Narayana
2) Other information. (1) Hrldevi worships Brahma
Pandita, a dependant of King Dhavalacandra. Of the in his assembly.
manuscripts available of the book, the oldest one is
(2) When Arjuna started forlndraloka DraupadI medi-
dated 1373 A.D. It has been surmised that the book
tated upon Hri so that no dangers might overtake him.
was written somewhere between the 10th and 12th
centuries A.D. (Vana Parva, Chapters 37, 38).
There are four parts to the book called Mitralabha (3) Hri too was present at the installation ceremony
Suhrdbheda (creating dissensions of Subrahmanya. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, 13).
(gaining friends) ,
between friends) Vigraha (separation) and Sandhi HRlMAN. A Sanatanavisvadeva. (eternal Deva of the
(union). universe). (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 91, 31).
HLADA (HRADA). A synonym for Hrada, son of HRlNISEVA. A saintly king born in the Asura dynasty.
Hiranyakas ipu. (
See Hrada) . He was one of the ancient kings whom fate had made
HLADINl. A tributary of the Ganga. Ganga brought to relinquish their kingdoms. (Santi Parva, Chapter
down by Bhaglratha to the earth first fell on Siva's 227, 31).
HCHO 316 IKSVAKU
Ht}Ht). A Gandharva, son of Kasyapaprajapati by Ghrtaprsdia, Savana, Meclhatithi, Vitihotra and Kavi.
Pradha. Urjjasvati was their youngest sister. (Maha Devi
(1) He was present at the birthday celebrations of Bhagavata, 8th Skandha),
Arjuna. (Adi Parva, Chapter 122, Verse 59). IDHMAVAHA. Son of Agastya and his wife Lopamudra.
(
2 ) Huhu was among the Gandharvas who welcomed The actual name of Idhmavaha was Tridasyu. There is
Arjuna in Devaloka. (Vana Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 14). a story in the Mahabharata about the birth of this boy.
(3) Huhu lives in Indrasabha. When Lopamudra was pregnant, Agastya asked her :
HOl^DA(M). An urban region in ancient India. The (Idhma ^fuel; vaha=one who carries).
people of this area were known as Hundas. In the great IKSULA. An important river. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
war they fought on the side of the Pandavas. They took Chapter 9, Verse 17).
their positions in the Krauncaruna vyuha formed by IKSUMATl. A river. It flows near Kuruksetra. The
Nakula and Sahadeva. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 50, nagas, Taksaka and Asvasena lived in this river. (M.B.
Verse 51). Adi Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 138) .
HUTA(M). One of the five great yajnas. (See Pra- Ku> adhvaja, brother of the King of Mithila used to
hutam )
. live in the Iksumati river valley, (Valmiki Ramayana,
HUTAHAVYAVAHA. One of the two sons of Dhara, Bala Kanda. 7th Sarga, Verse 2).
the Vasu, other son being Dravina. (Adi Parva,
the There is a reference to this river in Kathasaritsagara,
Chapter 66, Verse 21). Madanamancukalambaka, 2nd taranga also.
I IKSVAKU. 1 AsonofVaivasvata Manu.
I. (5) This letter means Kamadeva.
.
(Agni Purana, 1
) Genealogy. From Visnu were descended in the
Chapter 348) .
following order Brahma Marlci Kas yapa Vivasvan
I. (f). This letter means 'Rati' and Laksmi. Agni Vaivasvata Manu Iksvaku.
Purana, Chapter 348) .
Sraddha, Vaivasvata Manu's wife bore him ten sons
IDA I. Daughter of Vayu (wind-god). Ida had a son Iksvaku, Nrga, Saryati, Dista, Dhrsta, Karusa,
Utkala by Dhruva. Narisyanta, Nabhaga, Prsadhra and Kavi. Vaivasvata
IDA II. Daughter of Manu. In Taittirlya Brahmana, Manu had six more sons by another wife, Chaya. They
we find the following reference to this Ida : were Manu, Yama, YamI, Asvimkumara, Revanta,
Once Manu came to know that Devas and Asuras had Sudyumna. The Iksvaku family takes its source from
performed an Agnyadhana (consecration of the fire). Iksvaku. The Kings of the solar dynasty were all born
To ascertain whether it was deposited at the proper in the Iksvaku family. This dynasty is named "Solar
time, Manu sent Ida to them. Ida found that both Dynasty" because Iksvaku was born to Vivasvan (Sun)
parties had followed the wrong method, She said to the son of Kas yapa. In Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha
Manu "Your yajfia (Agnyadhana) should not be as
: we see that Iksvaku was born from Manu's spittle. The
ineffectual as that of the Devas and Asuras. Therefore descendants of Iksvaku up to Sri Rama's sons Lava and
I myself shall deposit the Trividhagnis (the three
Agnis Kusa are given below :
which are to be set in the proper place) at the proper Iksvaku had three sons Danda, Vikuksi, and Nimi.
place." Manu agreed and began his yaga. As a result From Vikuksi was born Sasada from Sasada, Puran-
;
of it the Devas attained plenty and prosperity. jaya; from Purafijaya, Kakutstha; from Kakutstha,
Once when Ida was in the presence of Manu. the Anenas; from Anenas, Prthulasva; from PrthulasVa,
Devas invited her openly and the Asuras invited her Prasenajit; from Prasenajit, Yuvanasva; and from
covertly. Since Ida accepted the invitation of the Yuvanasva was born Mandhata. Ambarlsa, Mucukunda
Devas, all creatures abandoned the Asuras and joined and Purukutsa were the sons of Mandhata. Besides
the party of Devas. (Taittirlya Samhita) . them he had fifty daughters also. The sage Saubhari
IDHMAJIHVA. Svayambhuva Manu had two famous married them. The family-tree continues again from
sons Priyavrata and Uttanapada. Of them. Priyavrata Purukutsa, one of the sons of Mandhata.
married Surupa and Barhismatl, the two daughters of From Purukutsa, Trasadasyu was born; from Trasa-
Visvakarma Prajapati. Idhmajihva was born to him dasyu, Anaranyajfrom Anaranya, Aryasva; from Aryas" va,
by his first wife. Idhmajihva had nine brothers Viz, Vasumanas; from Vasumanas, Sutanva; from Sutanva,
Agnldhra, Yajnabahu, Mahavira, Rukmasukra, Trairyyaruna; from Traiyyaruna, Satyavrata or
i. Mahf.bharata Asvamedha Parva (Chapter 4) says that Mahabahu was the son of Vaivasvata Manu, Prasandhi was the son of
Mahabahu, Ksupa was the son of Prasandhi and Iksvaku was the son of Ksupa.
ILA 317 ILINA
Trisaiiku; fromhim Haris candra from Hariscandra, ; 4) Transformation again ; Ila expressed to Vasistha, her
Rohitasva; from Rohitawa, Harita; from Harita, grief at having been turned into a woman, the sage
Cuncu; from Cuncu, Sudeva; from Sudeva, Bharuka requested Sri Parame'-vara to restore her to her former
and from Bharuka Sagara was born. Sagara had two form man. Siva said that Ila would be a man and
as a
wives Sumati and Keginl. Sumati gave birth to a womanevery alternate month, throughout life. Dur-
60,000 children, while KesinI had a single son, ing the month when she was a man he would engage
Asamafljasa. Amsuman was the son of Asamanjasa; himself in matters of Government, and the next month,
Bhaglratha was the son of Amsuman; Srutanabha was when a woman, she would stay in the inner apartments
the son of Bhaglratha; Sindhudvipa was the son of in the palace. Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 32 says
Srutanabha; Ayutayus was the son of Sindhudvipa; that Iksvaku, brother of Pururavas ruled the state till
Rtuvarna was the son of Ayutayus; Sarvakama was the the latter became a major. As soon as Pururavas
son of Rtuvarna Sudas was the son of Sarvakama
; ;
attained majority Sudyumna handed over to him the
Mitrasaha, the son of Sudas; Kalmasapada was the reins of Government and retired to the forest for tapas,
son of Mitrasaha; Asmaka was the son of Kalmasa- and during this period he was taught the Navaksara
pada; Mulaka was the son of Asmaka; Khatvanga wa mantra by sage Narada. Sudyumna adored Devi with
the son of Mulaka; Dlrghabahu (Dillpa) was the son this Mantra. She appeared to him and blessed him with
of Khatvanga; Raghu was the son of Dlrghabahu; Aja the state of salvation. (Bhagavata) .
was the son of Raghu; Daxaratha was the son of Aja. Pururavas married Urvasi, and ruled the country.
Dasaratha had three wives. Kausalya, Kaikeyi and (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha; Devi Bhagavata, First Skan-
Sumitra. Sri Rama was born to Kausalya, Bharata, dha; M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 75 and Anusasana
was the son of Kaikeyi and Sumitra had two sons, Parva, Chapter 147, Verse 26) .
Laksmana and Satrughna. Lava and Kusa were Sri ILA II. A At the birth of Subrahmanya this river
river.
Rama's sons by Sita. (See the word Kala- paid homage to him with fruits and roots. (M.B. Anu-
1
brahmana) sasana Parva, Chapter 86, Verse 24) Dharmaputra .
ILA The name taken by Sudyumna when, after becom- along with the brahmins bathed in this river. (M.B.
ing woman, he became man again. (See under ILA I) . Vana Parva, Chapter 156, Verse 8) .
ILA I. Daughter of Vaivasvata Manu. ILASPADA. An ancient holy bathing ghat. A dip in the
1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in this order :
holy waters wards off ill-fate and confers the benefits
Brahma -Marici Kasyapa Vaivasvata Manu Ila. of the Vajapeya yajna. ( M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 83,
Vaivasvata Manu was the son of Kasyapa by his wife Verses 77, 78) .
Aditi, and Ila the daughter of Vaivasvata Manu by his ILAVARTA (ILAVRTA) A King in the line of Priyav-
.
wife, Sraddha. Iksvaku, the ancestral father of the solar rata, son of Svayambhuva Manu, (See Genealogy).
dynasty of Kings was brother of Ila. ILAVRTA (ILAVRTTA) A locality. (See Bhugunita)
. .
2) Vaivasvata Manu and Sraddha had, for a long ILAVRTA VARSA. That part of the country in the
time no children. Manu got performed once by Agastya centre of Jambudvlpa. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter
a yajiia to propitiate the Mitravarunas so thaf a son 28).
might be born to him (Manu) Soon a daughter was .
ILAVU. See Vayu, Para 6.
born to him and she was Then Manu
called Ila.
ILIBILA. The wife of Visravas and mother of Kubera.
asked Vasistha why a daughter was born to him
Visravas was born as the son of Pulastya, one of the
instead of a son for whom the yajna was performed by
Prajapatis by Maninl. Visravas had two wives, Kaikasi
Agastya. At once, Vasistha by his will-power turned and Ilibila alias DevavarninI and Vaisravana (Kubera)
the girl Ila into a boy, and the boy was named Sud-
was born of Ilibila. Hence Kuber.i is called Ailibili
yumna. (Bhagavata). also; To Visravas was born by Kaikasi, Ravana, Vibhl-
3) Sudyumna again turned into woman. Once Sunaka
sana, Kumbhakarna and Surpanakha.
and some other sages went the great forest Kumara
to
Vana near Kailasa to salute Sri Parame^vara ignorant ILILA. A King of Puruvarhsa; father of King Dusyanta.
of the fact that just then Parvati and Parities vara were (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 71). Rathantarl was Ilila's
wife. (Adi Parva, Chapter 74). Some Puranas call
enjoying themselves. The sudden appearance of Sunaka
Ilila by the name Ilina and Rathantarl as Rathamdarl
and others was not relished by the divine couple, who
also.
were then naked. They therefore, pronounced the curse
that anybody who entered the forest in future would be Matinara, the most righteous of Kings had four sons
turned into a woman. (Bhagavata) endowed with great prowess named Taihsu, Mahan,
.
^ Atiratha and Druhyu. Tarhsu was responsible for the
Sudyumna, now a young man, went Wrounting one day.
Sudyumna who was ignorant of this curse entered this growth of the Puru dynasty. He conquered the whole
forestwith his friends while hunting. At once all of of earth and won famg. Ilina was Tarhsu's son. He also
them were transformed into women. Grief-stricken, conquered the whole world, and he had five sons. (M.B.
they stayed in the forest for some days, and then started
Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verses 14-18) .
for the palace. Sudyumna bearing the name Ila walked ILINA. Son of king Tarhsu of the Puru dynasty. His
at the head of the party as a beautiful woman. On the wife was Rathantarl. Ilina had five sons by her. They
way Budha met Ila, they each other
fell in love with were: Dusyanta, Sura, Bhlma, Pravasu and Vasu.
and got married. A son, Pururavas was born to Budha (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapters 16-18. See also under the
by Ila. (Bhagavata). word Ilila) .
i. There Certain variations in the genealogy according to some Puranas. The genealogy given above is based on Bhagavata and
Agni Purana.
ILLAKA 318 INDRA
ILLAKA. A person who led a very\ ideal family life. had no children, the distressed King with his queens
Son of a Vaisya in the city of Mathura, Illaka had a worshipped the goddess Durgu. Durga gave the King
very beautiful wife. Illaka had one day to go to ano- two fruits. She blessed that the queens would bear
ther place and his wife wanted to accompany him. But, children when they ate the fruits. Adhikasamgama ate
Illaka did not allow that and went alone. Then she both the fruits without showing them to the other wife.
waited at the gates looking towards the husband moving Two sons were born to her. Indivarasena was the elder
fast away. And, when he completely disappeared from son. (Kathasaritsagara, Ratnaprabha larhbaka, 8th
sight she, who could not bear the separation, fell down Taraiiga) .
on the spot and expired. Illaka heard about the death INDRA.
and without delay, he hurried back home. He placed 1) Genealogy. Visiiu Brahma Marlci Kasyapa
the dead body of his wife on his lap and wept. Weeping Indra.
thus he also expired. (Kathasaritsagara, Lavanakalarii- 2) Birth. Kasyapa was born to Marlci, the eldest of
baka, Tarahga I ) . the spiritual sons of Brahmfi. Indra was the son of
ILVALA. An Asura, who lived in the Manimati city. Kasyapa and Aditi, the eldest daughter of Daksa. The
Ilvala and his brother Vatapi ate up a number of brah- twelve sons who were born to Kasyapa and Aditi are
mins and Agastya cursed them to death. (See Agastya) . called Adityas. The twelve Adityas are Dhata, Aryama,
INDIA. 'South Sarakh', a newspaper published from Mitra, Rudra, Varuna, Surya, Bhaga, Vivasvan, Pusa,
the United Arab Republic with the assistance of the Savitii, Tvast, and Visnu. In addition to them, Aditi
Indian Embassy gives the following account of how the had twentyone sons more. Indra is the eldest of the 33
land originally known as 'Bharata' came to be called sons. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Verses 9-15).
India. The name 'India' was given to "Bharata" by Indra became the ruler of the Devas. Airitvata is
the Arabs. Even from very early times, Arabs used to Indra's elephant, Uccaissravas, his horse, and Vajra his
give the name 'Hind' to their girls. In ancient Arabic '
weapon. (Agni Purana, Chapter 5 1 M.B. Adi Parva, ,
love poems, this name could be seen very frequently. Chapter 18).
There were commercial and cultural contacts between 3) Indra and Garuda. Kasyapa had two sons, Garuda
Bharata and Arab lands, from very old times. The and Aruna by Vinata and a large number of Nagas by
words 'Kharan Ful' (spices) 'Pulful' (Pepper) etc. his other wife, Kadru. Kadru and her children kept
may be seen in Arabic poems of the pre Islamic period. Vinata and her son Garuda as their servants. Kadru
These contacts became more intimate in later years and agreed to set them free if they brought Amrta from
the Arabs began to take very great interest in the pro- Devaloka.
ducts and the people of this country. They began to Once Kadru and her children asked Garuda to carry
call 'Bharata' by the pet name 'Hind' which they them to the beautiful in the middle of the
Nagalaya
used for their little children. They began to use the ocean. Garuda carried them on his shoulders and flew
term 'Al Hind' when referring to Bharata in their
very high near the sky. The excessive heat of the sun
poems, records and trade agreements. In course of time made the Nagas unconscious. Kaoru, in her distress,
this was shortened to 'Hind' and finally became prayed to Indra. Indra showered rain and cooled the
'INDIA'. atmosphere. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 25, Verses 7-
INDlVARAKSA. A Gandharva. He was the son of 17). They reached the lovely island in the middle of
Nalanabha, the chief of the Vidyadharas. There is a the ocean.
story about this Gandharva in Markandeya Purana, Garuda decided to earn his freedom by bringing Amrta
Chapter 60 :
from Devaloka. With determination, he flew up into
Indlvaraksa went to the sage Brahmamitra to learn
heaven and secured Amrta. The enraged Indra attack-
Ayurveda. For some unknown reason, the sage did not ed him with his weapon, Vajra. But Garuda spread
teach him. Indlvaraksa decided to learn by overhearing
his feathers in such a way that he was not wounded.
what the guru taught the other pupils from a hiding Indra was struck with wonder, and pleased with the
place. In six months' time he learnt Ayurveda. Over- beautiful feathers (Parna) of Garuda, named him
joyed at the thought that he was able to acquire as 'Suparna'. At last Indra was pleased and allowed
much learning in this science as the other pupils, with- Garuda to take Amrta with him. (M.B. Adi Parva,
in such a short time, and oblivious of his surroundings,
he laughed loudly. The guru who understood the secret, Chapter 32, Verses 'l 8-25).
uttered a curse that he would become a Raksasa within 4) How Indra came to have 1000 eyes. (See Tilottama, 2nd
seven days. The repentant Indlvaraksa begged for his Para) .
pardon. Then the sage told him that he would be 5) Indra Mi Arjuna. (1) KuntI, Pandu's wife had
restored to his own form and give up the Raksasa shape received five mantras from Durvasas for begetting sons.
when he was shot with arrows by his own children. One of those Mantras was chanted meditating on the
Once when he approached his Mahorama sun even before she was married and Kama was born.
daughter
to devour her, his son-in law, Svarocis who had learnt After marriage she used three more of the Mantras and
the science of archery from that girl, defeated him. In three sons were born to her from Yama, Vayu and
this way, Indlvaraksa got' his own former form. After Indra respectively. The fifth Mantra was presented to
that he taught Svarocis, the sciences of archery which Madrl the other wife of Pandu. Thus Arjuna was the
he had learnt from his own daughter and also from son of KuntI by Indra. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter
Brahmamitra. 123).
INDlVARASENA. Son of Parityagasena a King who (2) There is a story of a rivalry between Indra and
ruled the city of Iravati. Parityagasena had two Arjuna in the Mahabharata. (See under 'Khanda-
queens Adhikasarhgama and Kavyalankara. As they vadaha') .
INDRA 319 INDRA
(3) During their life in the forest, once Arjuna Trisiras.With one face he used to recite Vedas, with
started to Kailasa to worship Siva. On the way Indra the second he drank alcohol and he used the third face
appeared before him and showered his blessings on for observing the world. He performed a rigorous
Vana tapas. Indra, who was alarmed
him. Parva, Chapter 41, Verses 15, 16). at it, sent goddesses to
(M.B.
(4) During his life inthe forest, Indra presented to allure him, but in vain. At last Indra himself went to
Arjuna who visited him in Indra's residence, a Gandh- the forest riding on his elephant Airavata and killed
arva named Citrasena as his companion. Chrasena Trisiras with his Vajrayudha. In his violent fury he
taught him music, dance, etc. (M.B. Aranya Parva, had the three heads of Trisiras cut by a carpenter.
Chapter 44, Verse 9). From that day, it was ordained that the head of the
(5) At the palace of Indra, as secretly instructed by cow sacrificed at yagas should be given to a carpenter.
Indra, Urvasi approached Arjuna with advances of Tvastr who was enraged by Indra's killing of his son
love. Arjuna who refused to yield to her temptations Trisiras, begot another son Vrtrasura. (Devi Bhagavata,
was turned into a eunuch by her curse. But Indra 6th Skandha) .
lifted the curse by saying that this curse would be an 9) Indra and Nahusa. See the word Agastya.
advantage to him during the incognito life of the 10) Indra and Bali. When Indra defeated and drove
Pandavas. It was Citrasena who was used as a tool by away the Asuras, Mahabali, the Asura emperor assu-
Indra to test Arjuna's self control. (M.B. Aranya med the form of an ass and hid himself in an empty
Parva, Chapters 44, 45) . house. Brahma informed Indra of this. Indra found
(6) In order to ensure Arjuna's victory in battle, him out there, but set him free without killing at the
Indra, disguised as a Brahmin, obtained by begging behest of Brahma. (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 223).
Kama's ear-rings. (M.B. Aranya Parva, Chapter 310). 1 1
)
Indra and Yayati. Yayati was the son of Nahusa. In
6 ) Indra and Vrtrasura. A
famous exploit of Indra was his old age, he handed over the kingly duties to his
the killing of Vrtrasura. Under the leadership of younger son Puru and went to the forest for performing
Vrtrasura, the Kalakeyas and many other Raksasas penance. After performing penance, he reached.
besieged the Devas. The battle raged furiously. Indra Indraloka in the end. Indra did not like Yayati's boast
fell down unconscious owing to the shower of arrows that there was none who had greater power of tapas
from Vrtra. At once Vasistha with his divine power than himself. Indra pushed him down to the world.
restored Indra to consciousness. Finding it impossible to (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 88).
kill Vrtra, the nonplussed Devas under the leadership of 12) Indra and Saradvan.
Saradvan was born as the son of
Indra approached Mahavisnu. Visnu told them that Sage Gautama. Saradvan started a penance for acquir-
Vrtra could be killed only with the bone of the sage ing divine arrows. Devendra who was alarmed, sent the
Dadhlca. So all of them approached Dadhica. Realising Apsara woman Janapati to obstruct his tapas. Deeply
the situation, Dadhica let Indra have his bone for the affected by her irresistible charm and fascinated by
purpose. Indra made his weapon Vajra with that bone her temptations, he had an involuntary emission of
and receiving a fatal stroke from it, Vrtra fell down semen, which fell on the Sarastamba and split itself into
dead. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 101, Verses 14, 15; two parts. Two children a boy and a girl, were born
Santi Parva, Chapter 281, Verses 13-21). from it. The King's servants brought them to
By killing Vrtra Indra incurred the sin of Brahmahatya. Hastinapura. The boy was named Krpa and the girl
To expiate for that sin the Devas and Rsis took Indra was named Krpi. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 130).
to Sarayu river and performed his holy bath there. 13) Indra and King Kuru. The King named Kuru was
(Valmlki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, 24th Sarga) . once ploughing the field at the place known as Kuru-
(For further details about Vrtrasura see under Vrtra- ksetra. (This was long before Kuruksetra became
sura) .
famous as the battlefield of Bharata Yuddha ) Indra .
Indra and Cyavana. Indra did not allow the Asvini- who happened to come that
way at the time, seeing the
7)
devas to drink soma juice. The sad Asvinidevas left King tilling the land, asked him why he was doing so.
Indraloka and while passing through a forest, they met The King replied that he was performing a yaga to
Sukanya, wife of the sage Cyavana. She was extremely enable the men who fell dead there, to attain Heaven.
beautiful. The Asvinidevas advised her to become their Indra returned to Heaven, smiling. Other devas came
wife instead of being the wife of the blind Cyavana. to know of this from Indra. They said that if all men
But Sukanya rejected their advice. Pleased by her came to Devaloka, the share of yajna which was to be
conjugal they restored Cyavana's eyesight and
fidelity,
received by the gods, would be diminished and so they
made him a youth with beautiful eyes. In his gratitude, advised Ind:a to go and give some boon to King Kuru.
Cyavana promised to get permission for them to drink Indra returned to earth and gave his blessing to Kuru
soma juice. He performed a yaga. Indra, AS vim devas as follows :
and other gods attended it. Indra insisted that the The following classes of people will attain heaven if
Asvinis should not be allowed to drink Soma juice. they die there (at Kuruksetra).
Cyavana disputed with him and in the dispute Indra (
1
)
Those who die of starvation.
was defeated. From that time the Asvinis were allowed (2) Those who die fighting heroically.
Soma drinking. See also 'Cyavana'. (M.B. Vana (3) Those whMvere
men in their previous life, but
Parva, Chapter 124, Verse 14; Anu-'asana Parva, who have bee^born as animals.
Chapter 156, Verses 16-31). From that time Kuruksetra became an important
8) Indra and Trisiras. Indra's brother Tvastr did not place. (M.B. Salya Parva,' Chapter 53).
like some of Indra's activities. With the object of 14) Indra and Taksaka. Indra's friend, a Naga named
Taksaka lived in Khandava forest. When Agni burned
rebuking Indra, Tvastr begot a son named Visvarupa,
Khandava forest, Indra caused the rain to fall in order
Visvarupa had three faces and so he was also called
INDRA 320 INDRA
to save Taksaka. See under 'Khandavadaha'. (M.B. forth a son. Indra, accompanied by other gods came
Aranya Parva, Chapter 235) . to see the child.When the Devas asked how the child
For the story of how Indra saved Taksaka from the was going to drink milk, Indra put his index finger into
Sarpasatra see under 'Astika'. the child's mouth and the child began to suck it. Indra
15) Indra and Khandavadaha. At the time of said 'The child will drink me". The Sanskrit words
Khandavadaha, Sri Krsna and Arjuna fought against "Mam dhata" mean "one who drinks me". Thus the
Devendra. child was named "Mandhata" by Indra and the other
16) Indra Sabha. Maya undertook to build a sabha gods. (M.B. Aranya Parva Chapter 126).
(assembly hall) for the Pandavas at Indraprastha. 20) Indra and Sibi. Once Indra and Agni tested the
When it was being discussed, the sage Narada described strength of Emperor Sibi's 'dharma'. Indra took the
to them Indra's sabha as given below : form of an eagle and Agni that of a dove. The dove flew
Indra has a Sabha which dazzles with divine effulgence. down into the lap of Sibi. The eagle pursued it. The
It is 150 yojanas in length and 100 yojanas in breadth. dove entreated Sibi to save it from the eagle. Sibi pro-
It has a height of five yojanas. Beautiful storeyed mised to do so. The eagle argued that the dove was its
buildings and divine trees add to the grandeur of the prey and should be returned to it. But Sibi offered to
sabha. Indra is seated within the holy light in it. give the eagle his own flesh, equal in weight to that of
SacidevI takes her seat near him. Indra is very hand- the dove. Accordingly, the dove was placed in one pan,
some. He wears a crown, he is dressed in spotlessly but even when all the flesh from his body was cut and
pure clothes, and wears a garland round his neck. placed in the other pan, it did not weigh equal to the
Maruts, Siddhas, Devas, Rsis and a host of others dove. At this stage, Indra and Agni appeared to Sibi
stand around attending on him. They are all bright with in their own forms and blessed him to be more happy
the halo of fire. Parasara, Parvata, Savarni, Galava, and prosperous than before. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chap-
Samkha, Gaurasiras, Durvasas, Akrodhana,
Likhita, ter 131).
Syena, Dirghatamas, Pavitrapani, Bhaluvi, Yajnavalkya, 21) Indra and Yavakrila. Long ago there was a sage
Uddalaka, Svetaketu, Pandya and other famous sages named Yavakrita. He started a tapas with the ambition
ire members of Indra's assembly. In this way, Indra's of acquiring all knowledge by himself, without the help
Sabha is the most magnificent. (M.B. Sabha Parva, of a Guru. Indra was alarmed at the sternness and
Chapter 7). rigour of the tapas. He induced Yavakrita to stop
17) Indra and Kdmadhenu. Once Indra saw
Surabhi, the tapas, but it was in vain. At last Indra disguised him-
Kamadhenu, crying in the asked her
Indraloka. He self as an old Brahmin and went to the bank of the
why she was crying. Surabhi answerd: "My Lord, the Ganga where Yavakrita was performing tapas. He
cattle, who are my children are groaning in the world began to build a dam across the river with sand. Seeing
under the yoke of the farmer. I was overwhelmed with this Yavakrita ridiculed him. The old Brahmin retorted
grief at the sight of their sufferings" Indra's heart meltt- that Yavakrita's tapas was also equally ridiculous. But
ed due to Kamadhenu's tears. He caused very heavy Yavakrita was not shaken even by his taunt. He resum-
showers in the world when ploughing the fields became ed his tapas with renewed strength. At last finding
impossible. In this way as a result of Surabhi's tears no other alternative, Indra appeared to Yavakrita and
Indra caused heavy rainfall which gave rest to the cattle granted his wish. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 135).
in the world. (M.B. Aranya Parva, Chapter 9). 22) Loss of Indra's umbrella. Once Narakasura went
18) Indra and Nala. Nala proceeded to Vidarbha to to heaven, fought with the gods and robbed Indra of his
attend Damayantl's Svayarhvara. On the way, the four umbrella and the earrings of Aditi, Indra's mother.
gods, Indra, Agni, Varuna and Yama met him. (For Grief-stricken Indra complained to Sri Krsna. Accom-
further details see the word 'Nala') . Nala married panied by Satyabhama and riding on the back of
Damayanti with the blessings of these gods. When the Garuda, Sri Krsna went to the city of Pragjyotisa, the
devas returned, they met Kali and Dvapara. to whom residence of Narakasura and razed it to the ground. He
they described Nala's marriage. Kali and Dvapara who recovered the umbrella and ear-rings and returned to
wished to marry Damayanti, naturally felt disappointed heaven with Satyabhama. Indra and Aditi were over-
and angry. Kali was about to pronounce a curse on joyed on getting back the lost articles. Ontheir return
Nala. But on the advice of Devendra he did not do so. journey, Sri Krsna at the request of Satyabhama cut
Still he decided to gain secret entrance into Nala's for her a twig of theParijata tree. This made Indra
body and to bring about the loss of his Kingdom. angry and he fought against Sri Krsna. After defeating
(M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 58). Indra and other gods, Sri Krsna accompanied by Sat-
19) Indra and Mdndhata. A King named Yuvanasva yabhama returned to Dvaraka with the Parijata. (Bha-
was born in the Iksvaku dynasty. He earned great gavata, 10th Skandha).
reputation by performing many Asvamedha yagas. But 23) Indra and Narakasura. The Asura called Naraka
he was very much distressed because he had no child- once performed a very severe penance on the Gandha-
ren. So he entrusted his kingly duties to his ministers madana mountain with the object of usurping Indra's
and proceeded One day during his wande-
to the forest. place. Indra was alarmed and rushed to Mahavisnu
ring he arrived at asrama of the sfce Bhrgu. He
the for help. Visnu went to Gandhamadana mountain and
was tired and thirsty. Bhrgu had fillecw a pot with killed Narakasura. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 142).
water by reciting a mantra and placing it on a low 24) Indra and the sage Baka. After the war between
stool, he had gone to sleep. Not knowing that it was Devas and Asuras, Indra, in a peaceful state of mind,
a pot of water intended to cause pregnancy, and in his was going around the world, riding on his elephant,
intense thirst, Yuvanasva drank water from it. He be- Airavata. When he reached an Alrama on the eastern
came pregnant and in due course Yuvanasva brought coast of the sea, he met the great sage Baka. A conver-
INDRA 321 INDRA
sation about the happiness of longevity took place Indra sought refuge under Brahmfi. Brahma advised
between Indra and sage Baka who was hundred thousand him to bathe in Sonapunya tirtha to expiate for the
years old. After that Indra returned to Devaloka. sin. Accordingly Indra bathed in the river Sarasvati
(M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 193). and washed of!" his sin.
25) Indra and Kesi. Long ago a terrible war took place River Sarasvati. about how Sarasvati
There is a story
between Devas and Asuras. At that time an Asura river became Sonapunya tirtha. There were frequent
called Ke;'I attempted to abduct Devasena, daughter of quarrels between Vasistha and Visvamitra. Once
a Prajapati. Hearing her shrieks, Indra rushed to the Visvamitra got angry when he came to know that
spot. In the clash between Kesi and Indra, Kesi's club Vasistha was performing a penance on the banks of the
was broken into two with Indra's weapon Vajra. river Sarasvati. He summoned Sarasvati and ordered
Suddenly Kesi lifted a mountain and threw it at Indra. her to produce Vasistha before him immediately.
Indra broke that mountain also into two. One part of Sarasvati was in a dilemma. If she brought Vasistha
it fell on K.e;' I himself, who fled frightened. After that, to Visvamitra, Vasistha would curse her; if on the other
Indra asked Devasena how she happened to fall in hand, she did not bring him Visvamitra would curse her.
Ke'i's hands. Devasena answered thus "I am the
: At last she decided to produce Vasistha before Visvami-
daughter of Prajapati. My name is Devasena. Kesi had tra. By eroding the earth on her bank little by little near
abducted my elder sister, Daityasena. My sister and the place where Vasistha was performing his penance,
I used to come to take our bath in this Manasa lake. Sarasvati managed to bring him down into her own
Kesi had expressed his wish to abduct both of us. My current. Then she carried him floating down to the
father has given me his blessing that a person who is place where Visvamitra was waiting. When Vasistha
worshipped by gods and asuras will become my husband. reached his presence, Visvamitra was pleased. But
Having heard these facts, Indra held consultations with without allowing Visvamitra to capture Vasistha she
Brahma and arranged the marriage between Subrah- took him away in her current, eastwards. Enraged
manya and Devasena. See also the word "Subrah- at this, Visvamitra pronounced a curse that blood
manya". (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 223). should flow through the river Sarasvati. Thus the
26) Indra and Arlgiras. After killing Vrtrasura, Indra water in the river became blood-red. The great sages
hid himself in a lotus flower in the Manasa lake, to who came there afterwards sympathised with Sarasvati
expiate for the sin of Brahmahatya (killing a Brahmin). in her ill-luck and as a result of their prayers Siva
It was at that time that Nahusa became Indra. After made her Sonapunyatirtha.
Nahusa had been forced to go back to the earth as a It was in this river that Indra took his bath and
serpent by the curse of Agastya, the Devas brought washed off his sin. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 43).
back Indra. At that time, Arigiras praised Indra with 31) Indra and Srutdvati. Bharadvaja's daughter
mantras from Atharvaveda. From that day Angiras Srutavati (Sruvavatl) performed a very severe penance
got the name of 'Atharvarigiras'. Indra was pleased to get Indra as her husband. .To test her character,
and blessed Angiras that his name would become Indra assumed the shape of Vasistha and went to
famous throughout the world. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Srutavati. She received the guest with due reverence.
Chapter 18). Pleased with her treatment, the guest handed her five
27) Indra and the Bow called Vijaya. Karna had a raw fruits and a>ked her to cook them for him.
bow called Vijaya. It was made by Visvakarma accor- Srutavati gladly undertook that service. She proceeded
ding to Indra's liking. (M.B. Kama
Parva, Chapter 31. to cook the fruits but even after burning all the fuel
Verse 42). she had, the fruits were not properly cooked. So she
28) Indra and the Tripuras. The Tripurasuras perform- began to use her limbs one by one as fuel and burned
ed penance and received boons from Brahma. After them up. Indra was deeply impressed by her self-
that they clashed with Indra. Indra was not able to and appearing to her in his own form married
sacrifice
kill them. The vanquished Indra had the Tripuras Srutavati, (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 48) .
killed by Siva. See the word "Tripura". (M.B. Karna 32) Indra became Satakratu. Indra performed one
Parva, Chapter 33) . hundred sacrifices at the place called Indratlrtha. Thus
29) Indra and Surya (the sun-god). When Karna and he became Satakratu. It was there that he gave much
Arjuna came into conflict at the Bharata battle, a con- wealth to Brhaspati. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 49,
troversy raged in heaven between Indra and Surya. Verse 2) .
Indra argued that Arjuna would win, while Surya as- 33) Indra became a bird. Once Indra took the form of
serted that Karna would gain victory. The Devas joined a bird and went to the forest and preached moral and
the side of Arjuna and Asuras joined Kama's side. In spiritual duties to the sages who had gathered there.
the end, Arjuna came out victorious and thus Surya (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 11).
was defeated by Indra. (M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter 34) Indra and Dantideva. Once Dantideva received a
87). boon from Indra that he should have plenty of food
30) Indra and Narnuci. The Raksasa Namuci once and enough travellers to eat it. (M.B. Santi Parva,
evaded capture by Indra by remaining hidden in the Chapter 29, Verses 120, 121).
rays of the Sun. Indra went to him and pretending 35) Indra and Brhaspati. Once Brhaspati told Indra
friendship, promised not to kill him either with wet thing that everything in the world could be achieved with
or dry things or at night or in day time. Trusting his soothing speech. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 84, Verse
words, Namuci came out. Then Indra cut off Namuci's 2).
head with the froth scraped from the waves of the sea Brhaspati's wife Tara once fell in love with Candra
at the time of dusk. The head pursued him shouting, (the Moon god) She deserted Brhaspati and went to
.
"You murderer of a friend, by breaking your promise!" live in Candra's residence. Brhaspati complained
INDRA 322 INDRA
'
preparations were started for a dreadful war between time, as directed by Brahma, Surabhi caused milk to
Indra and Candra. Sukra, the preceptor of Asuras flow from heaven and revived Nadijarhgha. Virupaksa
also joined the side of Indra. Brahma who came to told the whole story to Indra who came there at that
know of all this, came riding on his swan and recon- time. Indra said that Nadijarhgha died as the result of
ciled Indra and Candra. As directed by Brahma, Brahma's curse. He had offended Brahma on a former
Candra agreed to restore Tara to her lawful husband, occasion by refusing to attend Brahma's assembly,
Brhaspati, (Devi Bhagavata, First Skandha) .
although he was invited. Nadljamgha who was restored
36) Indra and Prahldda. The great King Prahlada once to life, was noble enough to request Indra to
bring
conquered Heaven. Indra, who lost his kingdom and back Gautama also to life. Accordingly Indra revived
glory, accepted Brhaspati's advice and went to meet Gautama. Nadijarhgha returned the gold to Gautama
Sukracarya. Sukra told Indra that Prahlada was the and sent him away with his good wishes. Indra returned
noblest person and that he had earned that nobility by to heaven. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 173).
his good qualities. Indra decided to acquire those
good 38) Indra and Ahalya. Indra, once fell in love with
qualities from Prahlada. Ahalya, the wife of Gautama. Sage Gautama who
Indra disguised himself as a Brahmin boy and approa- came to know of it, cursed Indra. For further details,
ched Prahlada with a request for moral and spiritual see under Ahalya.
advice. Prahlada accepted him as his pupil and gave 39) Indra turned into a Fox. Once a haughty Vaisya
him moral and spiritual advice. Pleased with the knocked down a young sage named Kasyapa, with his
pupil's devotion, Prahlada agreed to give him whatever chariot. The disgraced sage decided to commil suicide.
boon he wanted. The pupil said that he wanted only Knowing this Indra went to the sage in the form of a
the good qualities of the Guru. Prahlada agreed to it. fox and spoke to him, dwelling upon the evil aspects
Then a shadow-like figure appeared to emerge from of suicide. At last the young sage gave up the idea of
Prahlada's body. Prahlada who]] was puzzled asked the committing suicide and returned to his hermitage.
figure : "Who are you" "The figure answered "I : (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 130).
am your virtuous character. Now I am leaving you 40) Indra and Subrahmanya. Long ago the Asuras led
and entering this boy's body." Saying thus it left by Tarakasura, persecuted the gods in many ways.
Prahlada's body and entered Indra's body.
Tarak^sura had received a boon from Brahma that
Following it, all the good qualities of Prahlada, like only the son born to Siva could slay him. So, to dis-
charity, truth, glory etc. entered Indra's body one tract Parame^vara from his penance, in order to make
after another. It was only in the end that Prahlada it possible for him to beget a son, Indra sent Kamadeva
came to know that the cunning pupil was Indra. Thus (god of love) to him. But Kamadeva was burnt up in
from that day, Prahlada began to decline in his the fire from the third eye of Siva. After that Parvati
good
qualities and Indra began to prosper. (MB Santi won Siva as her husband as a result of her austere
Parva, Chapter 124). penance. She praytd to Siva that Kamadeva should be
37) Indra and Gautama. There is a story in the Maha- brought back to life and that a son should be born to
bharata, of how Indra restored life to a dead Brahmin her. Siva replied to her
:
Gautama was a Brahmin who had left his own home "Kama was born from Brahma's mind. As soon as he
and settled down to live in the village
of Dasyus was born, he asked Brahma "Karh Darpam ?" which
(an means whom shall I tempt and conquer ?" So Brahma
aboriginal tribe) He married from a low caste
.
and
followed the customs of Dasyus. At that time called him "Kandarpa". Brahma had advised him
another
Brahmin to come even at that time that he should never tempt me.
happened there. He ridiculed
Gautama who had lost his caste. Next morning Disregarding that advice he came to attack me and I
Gautama left his residence and went to
burned him up. Now it is not possible for him to be
another place
Tired after his long journey, he fell born in a physical form I shall beget of you a son
asleep under a
banyan tree. A King of birds named with my spiritual power. I do not need the urge of
on that tree. Nadljamgha who was Nadljamgha
lived Kamadeva for this, as in the case of ordinary
the son of
Kasyapa became very friendly with Gautama He mortals".
brought fish from the river Ganga to feed Gautama As they were discussing this problem, Indra and Brahma
and fanned him with his wings. Gautama arrived there. At their request Siva agreed to beget a
told the
bird that he was a poor Brahmin son by Parvati. Since it is not desirable that all
and that he was
anxious to get some wealth. There living beings should perish, Siva allowed Kamadeva
was a wealthy to be born in the minds of all creatures. Brahma and
.aksasa King named
Virupaksa in that country, who
was a close friend of Indra returned quite happy. One day, Siva and
Nadljamgha. Nadljamgha sent Parvati began their amorous dalliance. They did not
Gautama to Virupaksa with a
request to give Gautama
some wealth. VirQpaksa stop it even after a hundred years. The whole world
gave plenty of gold
Gautama. He returned to the foot of the began to shake to its very foundations. Fearing that
tree banyfn the world might perish, the dcvas, as ordered by
carrying the gold on his head," Gautama who was
quite tired after his long walk, was
Brahma prayed to Agni, to interrupt the amorous play
hospitably received of Siva and Parvati. Agni, who understood that it was
by Nadljamgha. That kingly bird lay
Gautama. An evil desire to eat theasleep/ cSTb? not possible to achieve their object, fled and concealed
flesh of NadI
himself under water. The Devas went out in search
jamgha dawned upon the mind of Gautama. He killed of Agni. By that time, the creatures in the water who
INDRA 323 INDRA
could not bear the heat of Agni, told them the secret. mystic power. In the conversation between them
its
Then Agni deprived them of the power of speech by a Devendra advised the bird to leave the tree and find
curse. After that he went and hid himself on the some other suitable place for its residence. The bird
Mandara mountain. Elephants and parrots disclosed did not accept his advice. Indra was pleased at the
the secrets of Agni, who was hiding within the hollow bird's loyalty and gratitude towards that tree which
of the trunk of a tree. Agni deprived them of their had been its shelter all along. So he took the bird
tongues by a curse. At last the gods discovered Agni. along with him to Devaloka. (M.B. Anusasana Parva,
They sent him at once to Siva to stop him in his Chapter 5) .
amorous dalliance. Agni succeeded in his mission by 44) How Indra turned Bhamgasva into a woman. There
his intense heat. Siva transferred his semen to Agni who was a King named Bhamgasva. Once he performed a
became pregnant. Being unable to bear its weight Agni sacrifice called "Indradvista" which was believed to
deposited it in the river Gariga, who at the behest of have the power of blessing him with children. Indra
Siva himself, left it in the woods on the Mahameru being not invited was displeased with him and was wait-
mountain. Siva's attendant bhulas (spirits) offered ing for an opportunity to wreak vengeance on him.
Puja to it there. After a thousand years a boy with six One hundred sons were born to Bharhgasva. Once he
faces (Subrahmanya) was born out of it. He was suck- went to the forest after entrusting the affairs of the
led by the Krttikas employed for that purpose by kingdom to his sons. Indra cunningly misguided him
Parvati and the boy grew up with astonishing rapidity and made him lose his way in the forest. Wandering
within a few days. Having been suckled by the alone with his horse in the forest, he reached the bank
Krttikas, the boy got the name "Karttikeya". of a river. Weary and thirsty, he stepped down into the
In those days, Devendra who was defeated by Taraka- river. To his amazement, he was instantly transformed
sura, decided to give up war and was living in Maha- into a woman The bewildered "woman" somehow
!
meru. The Devas and the sages used to go to Subrah- reached Bhamgasva's palace. All the members of his
manya for protection. When Devendra knew it, he family were deeply grieved over his change of sex. To
became angry and went to war with Subrahmanya. avoid embarrassment to himself and others, Bharhgasva
Subrahmanya was wounded on the face with Indra's returned as a woman to the forest and there lived as
weapon. From the wound two sons named Sakha and the wife of a sage and became the mother of a hundred
Visakha were born to Subrahmanya. With their help sons. After some years "she" went back to the palace
Subrahmanya encountered Indra again. At this stage with the sons and leaving them there returned again
Siva appeared there and informed Indra that Subrah- to the forest.
manya had been born with a mission to kill Tarakasura Indra went to the palace at this time and made the
and to restore Indra's kingdom to him. It was then two setsof hundred sons quarrel with one another
that Indra recognized Subrahmanya. He begged pardon until all of them perished in fighting. Hearing about
of Subrahmanya and expressed his desire to instal him this the mother who was in the forest, wept bitterly.
as his militarycommander. When he tried to perform Indra visited her (Bharhgasva) there and she told him
the ceremony of installation by sprinkling the holy the whole story of her misfortunes and begged his
water on Subrahmanya 's head, the water refused to pardon for performing Indradvista sacrifice without
come out of the pot. Siva told Indra that it was inviting Indra. Pleased with her repentance Indra
because he had tried to perform the installation before promised to resuscitate one set of her hundred sons.
propitiating Ganapati. Indra then offered worship to She wanted all the hundred sons who were born when
VighneSvara (Ganapati) and the ceremony went off she was a woman, to be restored to life. Indra was
without any hitch. Subrahmanya who thus became ready to restore her manhood too, but she preferred
Indra's commander, killed Tarakasura shortly after- to continue as a woman. Indra restored to life all the
wards. (Kathasaritsagara, Lavanakalambaka, 6th 200 sons of Bhamgasva and leaving Bhamgasva as a
Taranga) .
woman, returned to Devaloka. (M.B. Anusasana
41) Indra and Mahabali. The vanquished Mahabali Parva, Chapter 12).
who had left his home and country was in gloom 45) Indra and Matamga. A story is found in the Maha-
and despair when once Indra paid him a visit. Bharata under the title of "Indra-Matamga-Sarhvada"
At that time Mahalaksmi emerged from Mahabali's which illustrates that a Ksatriya, Vaisya or Sudra can
body and entered Indra's body. (M.B. Santi Parva, never become a Brahmana by any means. It was told
ofBrahmanas. From that time Indra began to offer Aruna, the charioteer of Surya (the sun-god) went one
worship to Brahmanas and thus he won the place of night to Indraloka to see the goddesses dancing. Men
Indra. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 36) . were not allowed to enter the dancing hall. So, Aruna
47) Indra loved Ruci. There is a story in the Maha- managed to enter the hall by disguising himself as a
bharala of how a sage named Vipula who was born in beautiful lady. The moment Indra saw her he fell in
the family of Bhrgu once saved Ruci, his Guru's wife love with her. The name she assumed at that time was
from Indra. Long ago, a great sage named Devagarma Arum. Indra secretly took her outside and they had a
lived in a forest. His wife Ruci being enchantingly sexual union. Bali was the son born from their union.
beautiful, many suitors were attracted to her. Chief 53) Indra's theft of a Horse. A King named Sagara once
among them was Indra. DevaSarma was aware of this. performed a sacrifice. Devendra stole the sacrificial
Once he had to leave his a<rama in connection with a horse. Sagara sent all his 60,000 sons in search of the
yaga. So he ordered his disciple Vipula to guard his horse. They dug up the earth and went to the Nether
wife Ruci during his absence. He had given a hint to worlds where they saw the horse tied in front of the
Vipula that Indra who was an expert in disguises, sage Kapila. The enraged sons of Sagara tried to
might appear in the asrama in any form. Vipula, by capture and bind the sage. But Kapila reduced all
means of his mystic power entered into his guru's wife the 60,000 princes to ashes by his curse. (Valmlki
and guarded her. Ramayana, Balakanda, Chapter 39) .
After some time, Indra reached the Asrama in the guise 54) Indra cut an embryo to pieces. Dili and Aditi were
of a handsome youth. He disclosed his real identity to the daughters of Daksa. Kasyapa married them. Indra
Ruci and told her that he had come there to spend a was born as the son of'Aditi. At this birth of a son to
night with her. Ruci fell in love with him. But since Aditi, Dili became jealous of her sister. One day she
she was under the mystic control of Vipula, Indra was told her husband Kasyapa that she too wanted to have
unable to fulfil his desire. At last Vipula sent him away a virtuous, heroic and brave son who would be equal
in disgrace. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, 44). to Indra in every respect. Kasyapa promised to grant
48) Indra 's theft of Lotus. Indra once stole Agastya's her wish.
lotuses. (See under Agaslya) . In due course, Dili became pregnant. Now it was
49) Indra's theft of an Elephant. Indra once stole an Aditi's turn to become jealous of Dili. She could not
elephant belonging to the great sage Gautama. The bear the thought of Dili having a son equal to her own
sage complained to Dhrtaraslra, who advised him to son Indra, in glory and splendour. So she called Indra
offer prayers to Indra. Accordingly Gautama pleased and secretly instructed him to destroy Dili's child in the
Indra by his prayers. Indra appeared and after return- womb, by whatever means.
ing theelephant took both the elephant and Gautama In obedience to mother, Indra approached Did
his
along with him to Devaloka. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, pretending friendship and spent a lot of time in her
Chapter 102). company. He soon won her confidence and love by his
50) Indra and Marutta. Long ago there was a famous affectionate attentions. On one occasion, when she was
king named Marutta. Indra was closely associated with in sound sleep, Indra, by his mystic power, entered into
him in many of his activities. (For more details see Dili's womb with his weapon Vajra and cut the child
Marutta) . in the womb into seven pieces. The child began to cry
51) Indra and Dharmaputra. Another anecdote about loudly, but Indra said "Ma ruda" which means "do
Indra which deals with the lastpart of Dharmaputra's not cry" and cut each of the pieces again into seven
life is given in the Mahabharata. parts. Thus the embryo (child) was finally cut into
The Pandavas, towards the end of their lives entered forlynine pieces, which laler became the forlynine
the forest and were travelling to the north. Dharma- "Manilas" or "Maruls". When she woke up, Dili
putra who was walking in front, was followed by a dog. realized Indra's Ireachery and in her fury she cursed
On the way the four brothers and Pancati fell down Indra and Adili. She cursed thai Indra would lose his
dead. Dharmapulra continued his journey accompanied kingdom of Devaloka and lhat Aditi would be im-
INDRA 325 INDRA
prisoned and her sons would be killed. As a result of Sita entered Dandakaranya. Sri Rama's chief object in
this curse Devendra lost his kingdom on one occasion. going there was to give protection to the sages and their
Aditi, in her next birth, was born as Devaki, wife of hermitages in the forest. But seeing that he had made the
Vasudeva and was imprisoned by Kariisa who killed killing of Raksasas his main purpose, Sita told
him that
her children. (Devi Bhagavata, Fourth Skandha) . this change in the objective would spoil other important
55) Indra and Ambarisa. matters. To illustrate this she told him the following
(1) King Ambarisa had a minister named Sudeva. story:
Sudeva fell fighting in the battle-field. After some years, 'Once upon a time, a great sage was observing holy
Ambaii.sa also died. When Arhbarlsa arrived in Heaven, riteswith great austerity. Indra was alarmed at it. He
he was surprised to find that Sudeva had already secured went to the sage's hermitage in the form of a warrior
a place there long ago. Ambarisa had performed many armed with a sword. Indra handed over his sword to
more acts of holiness than Sudeva. Yet Sudeva attained the sage for safe custody. The sage accepted it and
Heaven earlier than Ambarisa. Ambarisa asked Indra from that time all his attention was concentrated on
why it was so. Indra answered that just as Ambarisa had the sword. All his time was spent in guarding the
performed many sacifices, Sudeva had performed many sword and he began to neglect his devotional duties
war-sacrifices. He added that 'war-sacrifices were as as a sage. As a result of it his mystic power declined
efficacious for attaining Heaven as other kinds of sacrifices and ultimately he fell into Hell. (Valmlki Ramayana,
(M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 98) .
Aranya Kanda, 9th Sarga) .
(2) Ambarisa, King of Ayodhya was performing a 60 ) Indra and Kabandha. See under Kabandha.
sacrifice. At that time, Indra had stolen the sacrificial 61) The Post or Office of Indra. Indra was anointed as
animal. To continue the sacrifice without interruption, King of Devas on Meghavan mountain. In the 42nd
the King decided to substitute Suna.'sepha, the son of Sarga of Kiskiridha kanda of Valmlki Ramayana we
Rclka, for the cow. But Sunar'scpha prayed to Indra find that Sugrlva had ordered the monkeys to search
who came and rescued him from the jaws of death. for Sita on that mountain also.
(This story is given in other Paranas with slight varia- 62) Indra and Maya. Maya, the carpenter of the
tions. Valmlki RamJiyana, B.lla Kanda, 61st Sarga) . Asuras, performed penance to Brahma and acquired
56) Indra and Trisauku. There is a story that Indra complete mastery in the science of carpentry and
once pushed down from Heaven, Triianku a King of the architecture. After that he constructed a forest mansion
Surya varhsa (Solar dynasty) See under TRISAlsIKU.
. of golden colour and took up his residence in it. Once
57) Indra and Visvamitra. Once Visvamitra observed a Maya set his eyes on a goddess named Hema. When
vow of silence for a period of one thousand years. At the Indra knew this he became angry and killed Maya
end of that period, when he was about to take his food, with his weapon Vajra. From that time Hema got
Indra appeared in the form of a Brahmin and asked for Maya's golden mansion. This was told by Hema's
that food. Visvamitra gave that food to the Brahmin maid, Svayamprabha to Hanuman. (Valmlki Rama-
and resumed his austere penance. (Valmlki Ramayana, yana, Kiskindha Kanda, 51st Sarga).
Bala Kanda, 65th Sarga) . 63 ) Indra cut off the wings of Mountains. In Krtayuga
.
58 ) Indra., Sri Rdma and Sarabhahga. all the Mountains in the world had wings. They used
(1)1 At the time when Sri Rama and Laksmana were to fly about here and there like Garuda with the
leading their life in the forest, one day Indra paid a visit speed of wind. The sages and the Devas feared that
to the Asrama of the sage Sarabhanga. Devendra wished they might fall on their heads. The Devas held a con-
to take the sage with him to Devaloka. As they were ference and elected Indra to find a remedy for this.
talking, they saw Sri Rama coming to the Asrama. Indra Indra cut off the wings of the mountains with his Vajra.
advised Sarabhanga to speak to Sri Rama and left the The Mainaka mountain was a friend of wind. When
place. As suggested by Indra, the sage had a conversa- Indra was about to cut off the wings of that mountain,
tion with Sri Rama. After it Sarabhahga offered his Wind suddenly removed it and deposited it in the
body to the fire and went to Devaloka. (Valmlki ocean. It is out of his gratitude for this that the
Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, 5th Sarga) . Mainaka mountain rose up from the ocean and pro-
(2) When the battle between Sri Rama and Ravana vided a resting place for Hanuman, the son of Wind
was in progress, Indra presented to Sri Rama, an god, when he jumped to Lanka. This story was told
excellent chariot along with the horses. The chariot and by Mainaka mountain to Hanuman. (Valmlki Rama-
horses were handed over to Sri Rama on the battlefield yana Sundara Kanda,
,
1st Sarga).
by Matali, Indra 's charioteer. Sri Rama fought against 64) Indra cut off his preceptor's head Once Devendra
Ravana from that chariot and slew him. (Valmlki accepted a sage named Visvarupa as his preceptor for
Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 103). a sacrifice. Visvarupa's mother was a Danava partisan.
(3) After the war with Ravana, Indra appeared before So this priest, as directed by his mother, performed
Sri Rama and asked him what boon he wanted. Sri the sacrifice with the prayer "May the gods and the
Rama replied that all those monkeys who died in the Asuras prosper." As a result of the prayer, both the
war should come back to life and the forests in which gods who performed the sacrifice and the Asuras
they lived should abound in fruits and flowers in all the who did not perform it, prospered. At this Davendra
seasons of the year. Indra restored all those monkeys to became furious and he cut off the head of the Guru.
life and made all the forests in which they lived, green (Devi Bhagavata, 3rd Skandha).
and rich with luxuriant vegetation. (Valmlki Ramlyaaa, 65) Indra and Mahisdsura. See under Mahisasura.
Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 129) . 66) Indra became a bull. Long ago there was a King
59) Indra gives his sword for safe-custody. During their life called Kakutsrha in the Iksvaku dynasty. When he was
in the forest Sri Rama and Laksmaaa, accompanied by ruling over the kingdom of Ayodhya, a war broke
INDRA 326 INDRA
out between Devas and Asuras. In that war, the Devas and took Indruni to Kailasa. (Skanda Purana, Asura
were not able to defeat the Asuras. Indra in distress Kanda) .
approached Visnu for refuge. Visnu advised him to 72) Indra and Mucukunda. Mucukunda, a King of the
seek the help of Kakutstha, King of Ayodhya. So Indra Iksvaku dynasty, once went to Devaloka at the invita-
with the other gods went to Ayodhya. When Kakutstha tion of Indra. In the war between the Devas and
heard about their appeal for help, he glady offered Asuras, Mucukunda helped Indra and the Asuras were
his help but only on condition that Indra became his defeated. Indra was pleased and asked Mucukunda
vehicle. Seeing no other way, Indra assumed the what boon he wanted. Mucukunda asked for a boon
form of a bull and Kakutstha, riding on the back of which would give him long and sound sleep. Indra
the bull fought against the Asuras and defeated them. it and in addition declared that anyone who
granted
It is from that day that the King came to be called disturbed Mucukunda's sleep would be reduced to
"Kakutstha", "Indra-vahana" and "Puranjaya". (His ashes. After that Mucukunda went to sleep in a cave
original name is unknown). "Kakut" means the ''hump in the middle of a dense forest.
of a bull". Because he was seated on the "Kakut" he A King of the tribe Yavana performed penance to
got the name "Kakutstha". Because he made Indra Brahma and obtained his boon which would enable
"vahana" (vehicle) he got the name of "Indravahana". him to defeat the Yadavas (Sri Krsna's clan) and
As he defeated the Asuras and conquered their city he began to fight with Sri Krsna. Because of
(pura) he was called "Puranjaya". Kakutstha was the Brahma's boon, Sri Krsna was not able to kill him.
son of Sasada and the father of Prthu. Sri Rama is '
He drove Yavana into the cave in which Mucukunda
called "Kakutstha" because he was born in the was sleeping. Mucukunda suddenly woke up from his
family of Kakutstha. (Devi Bhagavata. 7th Skandha) .
sleep and looked at him with great anger. Yavana
67) Indra's Task. Devi Bhagavata, 8th Skandha says was at once reduced to ashes. (Bhagavata, 10th
that Indra is one of the "Astadikpalakas (the eight Skandha).
protectors of the quarters) and the name of his city 73) Indra's favourite Drink. The juice of the Soma
is "AmaravatI". Plant is the favourite drink of Indra. (Rgveda, 1st
68) . Indra's term of Life. The Devi Bhagavata 5th Mandala, 1st Anuvaka, 1st Sukta).
Skandha says that two life-spans of Brahma make 74) Indra became a Goat. Sage Angiras began wor-
Visnu's life-span. Siva has double the life-span of shipping the Devas, hoping to have a son who will be
Visnu, that during the life of Brahma, fourteen equal in glory to Indra. Indra who did not like
Indras will drop down from Heaven and perish, and another person to be his equal, took birth himself as
one day of Brahma is made up of one thousand the son of Angiras. Savya is the name of that son.
"Caturyugas."
Once Savya assumed the form of a goat and ate up the
There are fourteen Manvantaras during the life of the soma plant of a sage called Medhatithi. The sage then
called him Mesa (goat). Indra is still known by the
present Brahma (See under Manvantara) This means .
that fourteen Manus will be born and will die one name, Mesa. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, 1st Anuvaka,
51st Sukta).
after another during this period. Each Manvantara will
have its own Indra and the Devas. The first Manu was 75) Indra turns woman. Once Indra took birth as the
Svayambhuva. After him five more Manus, Svarocisa, daughter of a king named Vrsanisva and assumed the
name Mena. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, 1st Anuvaka,
Uttama, Tamasa, Raivata and Caksusa, have passed
52nd Sukta)
away. The present Manu is Vaivasvata the son of
.
70) The name Purandara. Sardar K. M. Panikkar When the sage was about to collapse, Indra came to
in his preface to Rgveda Sarhhita says that Indra his rescue. 1st Mandala, llth Anuvaka,
(Rgveda,
got the name Purandara because he the destroyed 62nd Sukta).
cities (Puras) of the Dasyus. But in Chapter 71, of 78 ) Indra and Saramd. Once an asura called Pan! stole
Vamana Purana, we are told that he got this name some cows and hid them some unknown place. Indra
in
because he killed "Pura", the son of Mahabali. asked Sarama, the bitch of the Devas to find out and
71) Indra in the land of Konkana. Once an Asura named inform him where the cows were kept concealed. Sara-
Surapadma obtained from Brahma, a boon to enable ma replied that she was prepared to do so, if Indra
him to conquer the whole world. He persecuted the would give milk to her child and look after it in her
inhabitants of all the three worlds. He sent his followers absence. Indra undertook that task and the bitch went
to bring Indra.nl (Indra's wife) to him as a captive. out and found out the place where the cows were hidden
Indra, who came to know of this, secretly went away and reported it to Indra, (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, llth
with Indrani to the Koiikana land and lived in a Anuvaka, 62nd Sukta) .
temple there. After some days, entrusting Indrani to 79) Indra and Dadhica. Dadhlca (Dadhici ) was the son
the protection of Sasta, he went to Kailasa. Just at this of Atharva. He used to scare away the Asuras by his
time, Surapadma's sister Ajamukhi came there and eerrible look. Once when he had gone to Heaven, the
tempted Indrani. Sasti cat off the hands of Ajamukhi earth became infested with Asuras. Indra set out to
INDRA 327 INDRA
fight them. He tried to find out whether Dadhica had down dead on the earth. Vayu, in deep sorrow, took
leftbehind anything to be used as a weapon. "Dadhica the dead body of his son and went to Patala. When
had with him a horse-head", he was told. Indra went in Vayu (wind) left the world, the creatures of the world
search of it and at last found it in a lake at a place underwent great suffering. Then the Devas led by
called Saranya. It is with its bone that he killed the Brahma went to Patala, consoled Vayu and revived
Asuras. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, 13th Anuvaka, 84th Hanuman. Since his "Hanu" was cut with Vajra, the
Sukta). monkey was named "Hanuman" by Indra. Besides,
80) Indra and Dadhyan. Indra taught Madhuvidya Indra gave him a blessing that Hanuman would die
(The science of intoxicating drinks) to Dadhyan. He only when he wished. (Uttara Ramayana, Valmiki
was warned by Indra that if he communicated that Ramayana; Kiskindha Kanda; 66th Sarga).
lore to anyone else, his head would be cut off. Once 86) Indra and Govardhana. For the story of how the
the A<,vinls wanted to learn it. Since Indra had denied people of Gokula (Cowherds' colony) stopped the wor-
Sorria drinking to As vims, they were not on good terms ship of Indra, how Indra caused a heavy shower of rain,
with Indra. So they approached Dadhyan to acquire and how Sri Krsna used the Govardhana mountain as
that Knowledge. But he refused to teach them due to an umbrella, see under "Krsna".
his fear that Indra would cut off his head. So the 87) Indra becomes victim of old age. Once the sage
Asvinis cut off Dadhyari's head and fixed a horse's Durvasas went Devaloka. The goddesses gave him a
to
head in its place. With that horse-head Dadhyan grand reception at which Menaka presented him with
taught the Asvinis Madhu Vidya. After they had learnt a garland made of fragrant flowers. The sage gave it to
the knowledge, they replaced his own head after remo- Devendra. Indra placed it on Airavata's tusk. The
ving the horse-head. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, 17th fragrance of the garland attracted a large number of
Anuvaka, 116th Siikta) . bees to it. They swarmed round the head of the ele-
81) It is said that once, in a light mood, Indra made phant and annoyed it. Airavata picked up the garland
a mare give birth to a cow. (Rgveda, 1st Mandala, trampled it under his foot, pulled it to pieces and threw
18th Anuvaka, l_21st Sukta). it away. Durvasas took this as an insult to himself and
82) Indra and Satdnlka. Satanlka was a King of the pronounced a curse that all the gods would be subject-
Lunar dynasty who ruled over the city of Kausambl. ed to wrinkles and grey hair of old age.
Indra who was highly impressed by his heroic Indra and the other gods fell victims to old age. Indra
exploits once invited him to Devaloka to suppress requested Durvasas to release him from his curse. The
the Asuras. In the war with Asuras, Satanlka was sage relented and told him that if the Devas drank
killed. After that Satanika's son, Sahasranika went to Amrta obtained by churning the ocean of milk they
Devaloka and killed the Asuras. Indra who was pleased would recover their youth. Accordingly, the ocean of
declared that Sahasranika would marry the beautiful milk was churned by the joint effort of the Devas and
Mrgavati and they were married. See under Mrgavati. Asuras and in the end the Devas snatched it away.
(Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukha larhbaka, 1st Tarariga). When the Devas drank Amrta, the symptoms of old age
83) Indra and Vasavadatta. Vasavadatta who was the disappeared and they recovered their youth. (Uttara
wife of Udayana was born in the world by Indra's Ramayana) .
have to spend a year in prison, chained by an enemy. 89) Other names of Indra. Indra; Marutvan, Mr r-havan,
His life in Ravana's prison in Lanka was in fulfilment Bidaujas, Pakasasana, Vrddhasravas, Sunaslra, Puru-
of that curse. (Uttara Ramayana) . huta, Purandara, Jisnu, Lekharsabha, Sakra, Sata-
85) Indra and Hanuman. Hanuman, thesonofVayu manyu, Divaspati, Sutrama, Gotrabhit, Vajn, Vasava,
(wind) sprang up into the sky as soon as
he was born, Vrtraha, Vrsa, Vastospati, Surapati Valarati, Sacipati,
seeing the brilliant rising sun, and mistaking
it to be Jambhabhedin, Harihaya, Svarat, Namucisudana, Sarh-
some delicious food. He saw Ra.hu who was standing krandana, Duscyavana, Turasat Meghavahana, Akhan-
near the sun and made a leap towards him. When dala, Sahasraksa, Rbhuksa.
he came near, he saw Airavata, Indra's elephant, 90) Indra's Divinity. In the earliest stage of Hinduism,
Indra had occupied one of the most eminent places
standing in Devaloka. At once he turned towards that
the gods. Mahavisnu had only the of
elephant to swallow him. Seeing the struggle between among place
Hanuman and Airavata Indra used his weapon Vajra younger brother of Indra at that time. In Amara Koi'.a
which cut the monkey's "hanu" (jaw bone) and he fell we find "Upcndra Indravaraja" as the synonym of
INDRA 328 INDRADYUMNA I
Visnu. In Rgveda Indra has a more important place. 94) Siva ended Indra's pride. See under Pandavas.
Although Rudra is a divinity or deity and although 95) Indra stole the cows. For the story of how Indra stole
there are references to Kapardin, there is not even a the cows from Gokula see under Krsna.
single stuli (praise) about Siva in the Rgveda. Rg- 96) Indra and Mahasani. Once Mahasani, the son of
veda does not recognize Devipuja and idol worship. Hiranya defeated the gods in a battle and took
But in the Puranic age, Indra was transformed into a Indra and Indrani to Patala as captives. The
lascivious "Deva Prabhu" (Lord among the gods) . Devas who knew that Mahasani was a relative of
Sardar K.M. Panikkar, in his preface to "Rgveda Varuna, sought the help of Varuna. At the instance, of
Sarhhita" says about Indra: "The main actor in Rg- Varuna, Indra was released. The revengeful
veda is Indra. In the war against the Dasyus the Aryas Indra prayed to Siva. Siva appeared and asked Indra
seek the help chiefly of Indra. Indra is represented as to submit his complaint to Visnu. Indra offered his
very handsome and of a golden complexion. His weapon prayers to Visnu. As a result of it, a man who had the
is Vajra, thunderbolt which was made by Tvasta. elements of Siva and Visnu, in him, took his birth from
Vayu (wind) is his charioteer. He is
constantly travel- the water of the Ganga. He killed Mahftsani. (Brah-
ling about in the sky driving in golden chariot. Indra
his manda Purana).
likes drinking Soma juice more than the other gods. INDRADAIVATA. A yajna (sacrifice) performed in
Indra is even referred to as "Somapa". He is also order to get children. King Yuvanasva got the yajfia
sometimes described as the twin brother of Agni. Sages conducted. After it was over the King drank water
have sung unendingly about the exploits of Indra. from pots filled by brahmins, and became pregnant.
Hiranyastupa, a sage, has composed a work entitled (See Mandhata) (Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha)
. .
"Indrastuti" which celebrates many of the heroic deeds INDRADAMANA. A King who gifted a lot of money
of Indra. Indra was Vajrapani who had slain the Asuras to Brahmins. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 234, Verse
like Ahi, Tusna, Sambara, Vala, Vrtra and others. 18).
There are also several stories in the Vedas about the INDRADATTA. See 'Vararuci'.
birth of this hero. At the time of Indra's birth, some- INDRADHVAJA. A flag staff. It is erected in order to
how, his mother felt that he was incapable of being get rain. If anybody dreams that it has broken and
killed. So she decided to abandon him. Fearing trouble fallen, it is a bad omen. It means that some disaster
for herself, she asked the child to leave her and go to will befall the country. (Agni Purana, Chapter 229) .
some other place. Indra refused to do so and followed INDRADVlPA (INDRA ISLAND). Mahabharata,
her to the house of Tvasta. There he drank the juice Sabha Parva refers to the island as having once been
of the soma plant and gained strength to kill his ene- conquered and subjugated by king Sahasrabahu.
mies. But unaware of this, his mother, tried to keep INDRADYUMNA I. A King born in the dynasty of
him concealed. Indra, however, came out of the place Svayambhuva Manu, and a king of the Pandya
in his dazzling attire and encountered the enemies. country.
Vrtra who met Indra got ready for a fight. In the fight 1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in this order :
Vyarhsa struck down Indra. The devas fled in fear. Visnu Brahma - -
Svayambhuva Manu Priya-
-
Indra who was left alone called upon Visnu and sought vrata AgnTdhra Nabhi Rsabha
-
Bharata
his aid. ISumati Indradyumna.
Although Indra needed help in his fight with Vrtra, he 2) Indradyumna turned into elephant. Indradyumna, a
was the chief support to the Arynas in their fight against devotee of Visnu handed over governance of the country
theDasyus. It was Indra's Vajra which broke up the for- to his children when he became old, and performed
tresses of many Dasyu kings. That was why he got the penance in the Malaya mountain. One day, when he
name "Purandara". Once Indra dried up the whole was immersed in meditation Agastya came there. Natu-
river to enable his army to cross it for the sake of Sud- rally, Indradyumna did not notice Agastya's arrival.
as. When Su<'ravas became helpless, Indra destroyed Enraged at this the latter cursed Indradyumna and
twenty kings and 60099 soldiers with his chariot wheel. turned him into an elephant. Being told immediately
Thus we see Indra in the Rgveda as the destroyer of about the curse by his servants Indradyumna sought
the Dasyus and the protector of Aryans." redemption from the curse from Agastya himself. Redemp-
Indrani, Sad and Pulomaja are the names of Indra's tion was granted thus Indradyumna would roam in
:
wife. Indra's son, Jayanta is also known by the name the forest for years as an elephant, a devotee of Visnu
of Pakasasani. Indra's city is Amaravati ; his chariot and he would attain salvation when Lord Visnu came
"Vimana", his charioteer Matali, and his garden Nan- down to the earth and patted the elephant on its back.
danavana. "Vaijayanta" is the name of his mansion. Accordingly Indradyumna who was turned into an ele-
Indra's weapon has several other names, such as, Hra- phant roamed about in the forest for many years in the
dinl, Kuli:'a, Bhidura, Pavi, Satakoti, Svaru, Samba, company of a herd of wild elephants. At last it arrived
Dambholi, Ar.ani etc. Indra's assembly is called "Su- at Mount Trikuta. There was a lake there on the banks
dharma". Indra's bow is the rainbow, his sword is of which was sage Devala engaged in penance. Huhu,
Paranjaya and his residence is Heaven. The trees in Gandharva had once come to this lake with a num-
t'le
Heaven are, Mandara, Parijata, Santana, Kalpavrksa ber of Apsara women and they indulged in amorous
and Haricandana. The festival celebrated in honour of sports, which Devala did not like. He cursed Huhu and
Indra is called "Sakradhvajotthana" or "Indrotsava". tusned him into a crocodile, and the crocodile lived in
91) Indra and Uttanka. See under Uttarika. the same lake.
92 ) Indra and Kabandha. See the second para under the Indradyumna who was turned into an elephant, stepped
name Kabandha. into the lake to drink water when the crocodile caught
93) Indra was born as Gadhi. See under Gadhi. hold of its hind leg. Neither did the elephant yield nor
INDRADYUMNA II 329 INDRAJIT
the crocodile leave the former free. Their lake. It came into existence when the cows given in gift
tug of war
continued for 1000 years when Mahavisnu
appeared by King Indradyumna passed along that way. (M.B.
on the scene, killed the crocodile and saved the
Aranya Parva, Chapter 198). The pool lay near
elephant. At once the elephant was re-transformed Mount Gandhamadana, and the Pandavas once visit-
into Indradyumna and he attained Vaikuntha (the ed it. (M.B.Adi Parva, Chapter 1 18, Verse 18).
abode of Visnu) (Bhagavata, 8th
.
Skandha) .
INDRAJIT. Ravana's son, Meghanada.
A Malayalam verse summarises the above story as 1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus: Visnu,
follows :
Impelled by Agastya's curse the elephant Brahma Visravas Ravana
went to the lake at Mount Trikuta, and suffered for
Pulastya Meghanada
( Indrajit) .
Visnu, Balarama, Sudarsana and Subhadra made and a Saiva yaga, Meghanada got the bless-
installed them in the
By performing
temple. (Skanda Purana) ings of Siva, who taught him ( Meghanada) the great
INDRADYUMNA (M). A lake. A stork called Nadi- art of Samadhi, which helped one to move
amongst
jamgha and the Adikurma called Akupara lived in this others invisible to them.
INDRAKlLA 330 INDRAPRASTHA
4) The name, Indrajit. Once Ravana encircled Indra- INDRALOKABHIGAMANA PARVA. A sub Parva in
loka with a big army, and Indra, very much alarmed Mahabharata.
ran up to Visnu for protection. Visnu told Indra that
it was not yet time for Ravana's death and when it
INDRAMARGA. An ancient sacred place (bathing gha{)
Those who take a dip in the holy waters there will attain
was time Visnu himself would slay him. Disappointed
heaven. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 9).
at this Indra returned,and a fierce war ensued between
him and Ravana. Indra fought with Ravana, and INDRANI. Wife of Indra (Sad).
Jayanta, his son fought with Meghanada. When fight- 1
) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus Visnu :
ing reached its climax Meghanada resorted to the Brahma Kasyapa Puloma SacI (IndranI). Puloma
art of Samadhi taught by Siva, and became invisible was an asura born to Kasyapa by his wife Danu. Indra
to others. Then he showered his arrows. Jayanta married SacI, the daughter of Puloma, and hence Sac!
fainted on the battlefield. Puloma, father of IndranI, is called IndranI also. She is called PaulomI also as she
carried away Jayanta without others knowing and was the daughter of Puloma.
concealed him in the ocean. Everyone thought that 2) IndranI and Surapadma. An Asura called Surapadma
Jayanta was dead. Burning with grief and revenge once coveted IndranI. He
deputed his men to fetch
Indra confronted Ravana again. Ravana fell down at SacI somehow him. Hearing about this,
or other to
the blow with Indra's vajra (thunderbolt). Then once
Indra, keeping IndranI with him, went to and stayed in
more making himself invisible to others, Meghanada the Chlyali temple in Koiikanadej'a, and afterwards
jumped into Indra's chariot and bound him prisoner. Indra went to Mount Kailasa after asking Sasta to
By that time Ravana got up on his feet, and he and guard IndranI. During Indra's absence Ajamukhi,
Meghanada carried away Indra to Lanka and chained sister of Surapadma met IndranI and induced her to
him to the foot of the flagstaff. become Surapadma's wife. IndranI refused. Ultimately
The Devas, grief-stricken at this sad fate of Indra Indra returned and took IndranI back to Devaloka.
went to Brahma and submitted their grievance. 3) IndranI and Nahusa. See under Agastya.
Brahma reached Lanka, and named Meghanada Indra- 4) Mahabharata says that Pancall
IndranI and Pancall.
jit. (He who gained victory over Indra). Indrajit was a partial incarnation of IndranI. (See under Pancall) .
prayed to Brahma for the boon, which would ward , A part of SacI was born in the family of Drupada as
off death for ever. When Brahma told him that the
Draupadl, viz. Pancall. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67).
boon of eternal deathlessness was out of the question 1
) IndranI once went to the assembly of Brahma and
he sought the following boon that when he had per-
:
(
formed a yajfta, out of the sacrificial fire should emerge worshipped him. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 11,
Verse 42) .
5) Indrajit and Hanuman. A clash occurred between INDRAPARVATA. A mountain in Videha. (M.B. Sabha
Indrajit and Hanuman, who landed in Lanka in search Parva, Chapter 30, Verse 15) .
of Sita, and the former got Hanuman bound by INDRAPRAMATI. A disciple of Paila. He belonged
Brahmastra. (Valmiki Ramayana) .
to the line of Vyasa's disciples. For other details see
Death of Indrajit. At the height of the fierce war under Vyasa.
6)
between Rama and Ravana, Indrajit and Laksmana INDRAPRASTHA. Capital city of the Pandavas. It is
clashed with each other. Finding victory impossible the same as Delhi, the capital of modern India.
went to Nikumbhila to fight with Indrajit who was Maya and five others from the fire. Maya asked Arjuna
engaged in performing the yajna, and without complet- what he should do in return for saving his life. Arjuna
ing'the yajna he came out and began fighting, and replied that it was not proper to expect any reward for
Laksmana killed him. (Valmiki Ramayana, Yuddha saving one's life and that, if Maya was very keen about
Kanda, Chapters 82-91) .
doing something in return, it might be done for Krsna.
Then Krsna asked Maya build for the Pandavas a
INDRAKlLA. A mountain in front of th^ Himalaya and to
the most beautiful one in the world at Indrapra-
Gandhamadana mountains. The presiding deity of this palace,
mountain is a devotee of Kubera. (M.B. Vana Parva, stha. And, accordingly, after getting the Brahmins
dulyfeasted, Maya marked the ground ten thousand
Chapter 37) .
INDRAPOJA 331 IRAVAN
Kiskus 1 in extent. Then Maya went to the mountain 11). Indrasena served her husband for 100 years.
Mainaka the
to west of Mount Kailasa, where M.B. Virata Parva, Chapter 21, Verse 11 ).
in the pool called Bindu he had stored a large quantity INDRATAPA. An who was
a devotee of Varuna.
Asura,
of gold and gems. Maya brought those materials as (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter Verse 15) 8, .
also a conch called Devadatta from there and built the INDRATlRTHA. A sacred place on the banks of the
most beautiful palace in the world at Indraprastha. river Sarasvati. It was here that Indra performed 100
Within the palace were made many a beautiful pool and yajfias. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 49)
.
various patterns with galleries etc. in glass. It was built INDRATOYA. A river near Mount Gandhamadana.
so beautifully and in such a manner as to create, at the Bathing in the river and staying there for three nights
very sight, the illusion that there was water where there istantamount to performing the horse sacrifice. (M.B.
was really no water and vice versa. It took fourteen mon- Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 11).
ths to complete the construction of that most beautiful INDRAVAHANA. King Kakutstha of the Iksvaku
model of architecture. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapters dynasty made Indra his vehicle in the form of an ox
1-3). and fought the Asuras thus. Hence the name Indra-
3) Vajra, son of Aniruddha of the Yadava dynasty vahana. (See under Kakutstha) .
was made master of Indraprastha after the time of the INDRAVARMAN. A King ofMalava, he fought on the
Pandavas. (M.B. Mausala Parva, Chapter 7, Verse side of the Pandavas, and got killed by an elephant
11). called As vatthama. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 190,
INDRAPUJA. This puja (Indra-worship) is also Verse 15).
called Indrotsava. It was during the reign of Vasu, INDROTA (INDRODA). A sage, son of Suka, the
a king of the lunar dynasty that Indrotsava began great sage, and also called Saunaka. Janamejaya, son
being celebrated in an organised manner. Pleased at of King Pariksit once killed a brahmin, and af once
the long penance of Vasu, Indra appeared to him and Brahmahatya (sin of having killed a brahmin) seized
presented a Venudanda. Vasu planted the danda on the King. The King lost all mental peace at this and
earth and conducted Indrapuja. Thenceforward raising sought the advice of fnany sages for redemption from
the Venudanda became the first item in celebrating the sin, and Indrota (Saunaka) advised him to go on a
Indrotsava. The staffis decorated with flowers, sandal, pilgrimage and perform righteous duties (dharma) .
garlands etc. To the top of the staff is attached the The King acted accordingly and got rid of the sin of
form of a Harhsa and offerings are given to it. The killing the brahmin. This story occurs under the title
reason for this is the fact that it was in the form of a Indrotapariksitlyam in Santi Parva in three chapters.
Harhsa that Indra appeared to Vasu. Pleased by the (Chapters 150-152).
Indrapuja of Vasu, Indra announced as follows If : INDROTSAVA. See under Indrapuja.
men, and especially kings worship me in the manner INDUPRABHA. See under Malayaprabha.
done by Vasu, prosperity and welfare will accrue to INDUMATl I. Daughter of Candrasena, King of
them and to their kingdoms. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter Simhala and his queen, Gunavatl. (See under Candra-
63). sena) .
celebrated in the city of Upaplavya. (M.B. Virata IRAVAN. A son born to Arjuna of the serpent damsel
Parva, Chapter 72, Verse 23). (Nagakanya) named Ulupi. (For genealogy see under
INDRASENA IV. A King who fought on the side of Arjuna) .
go on a pilgrimage for one year. Numerous brahmins Isupada was reborn in his next life as the very heroic
accompanied Arjuna and while spending the night on and powerful King Nagnajit. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter
the banks of the Gangu, Arjuna entered its waters for 67, Verses 20, 21).
bathing. There he saw the Naga damsel, Ulupi. They ISVARA. Once Devi told Himavan who, according to
fell in love with each other and
got married. And, a the Hindu religion, God is, and how creation takes
son named Iravan was born to them. Ulupi granted place from Isvara (God). The famous discussion about
Arjuna the boon that all water-animals would obey Godhood, called Devigita is quoted hereunder.
him and that in water he would be invincible. Leaving ( ) Ahamevasa purvarh
1 tu
Ulupi and Iravan behind, Arjuna continued his stay in nanyad kirhcit nagadhipa /
the forest. Tadatmaruparh cit saiiivit
2) Further Information. (1) In the great war Iravan Parabrahmaikanamakam. //
fought on the side of the Pandavas. During the first (
Before the creation of the universe commenced, I alone
day's fighting Iravan and Srutayu fought a duel. was there was nothing else. Then I was called Para-
;
(3) Iravan killed five brothers of Sakuni. (Bhlsma Tasya kacit svatah siddha
Parva, Chapter 90, Verses 27-46). saktirmayeti visruta //
(4) Iravan fought against Alambusa and was killed (That form is beyond discussion (Apratarkyam ) beyond ;
by the latter. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 90, Verses 56- description (Anirdesyam) ; incapable of being
76). compared (Anaupamyam); beyond birth, death youth,
IRAVATI I. Grand daughter of
Kasyapa. Ten daughters old age etc. (Anamayam). In this form of mine resides
were born to Kasyapa by his wife Krodhavasa, viz. mayasakti.
MrgI, Mrgamanda, Harl, Bhadramata, Matamgl, (3) Na sati sa nasatl sa-
Sarduli, Sveta, Surabhi and Kadru, and IravatI was nobhayatma virodhatah /
Kadru's daughter. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Etadvilaksana kacid-
Kanda) . vastubhiitasti sarvada //
IRAVATI II. A sacred river. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, (That mayasakti cannot be said to be existing or not
Chapter 146, Verse 18). existing. Thus it is neither existing nor not existing.
IRJIKA. A locality. (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, The statement existing and not existing is subject to the
Verse 52) .
error, paradox. That great force exists always in me
IRI. There are hundred Kings in the palace ofYama with the pair of aspects.
worshipping him, and they are. called the Iris. (4) Pavakasyosna teveya-
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 23) . musnarhsoriva didhitih /
formed many yajnas. (Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka (8) Kecittam tapa ityahu-
19, Sukta 124) . stamah kecijjadam pare /
ISUPADA. An Asura born to Kasyapa and his wife, Jnanarh mayam pradhanarh ca
'Danu. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 25). This prakrtirii saktimapyajam //
ISVARA 333 ISVARA
(This maya is referred to differently by different people (Because of the above reasons experts in the science
as tapas, tamas, jada, jiiana, maya, pradhana, prakrti of philosophy hold that this Caitanya is eternal, and
and aja.) .
that, since it is the basis of bhakti which assumes the
(9) VimarSa iti tarn prahuh form of absolute love, it is anandarupa) .
maya as vimarsa and Vedic seers call it avidya). (No living souls think 'I not'. Everyam body cherishes
(10) Evam nana.vidha.ni syuh always his self-importance, the 'I'. It is present there
namani nigamadisu / in every living soul in the form of love. This fact itself
tasyah jadatvam drsyatvat proves that I different am from all material objects).
jnananasattatossatl // (18) Aparicchinnatapyeva-
(Thus Vedas refer to maya by various names. Because mata eva mata mama /
of visibility maya is called jada, and because it is des- tacca jnanam natmadharmo
tructive of true knowledge it is called asat) .
dharmatvejadatatmanah //
(11) Caitanyasya na drsyatvarh (That I am indivisible is quite definite. Knowledge is
drsyatve jadameva tat / not an attribute of the soul (atman) but is the very
svaprakagarh ca caitanyarh form of the soul itself. If knowledge were only an attri-
na parena prakasitam // bute of the soul it (soul) should have been material
(Caitanya (Effulgence) is not visible. What is seen is (jada) and it is quite a certitude that the soul is not
jada (material expression). Caitanya is self-illuminating; material, because knowledge is the very nature of the
it is not illuminated by something else) . soul .
)
(13) Prakag amanamany e sam (The soul is pure knowledge without any touch of the
Bhasakam viddhi parvata / jada. It is also pure existence. It is one and indivisible) .
If Caitanya does not possess the quality of light and (The atman (soul) is therefore jnanarupa (of the nature of
illumination there should necessarily be something else, pure knowledge), Sukharupa (of the nature of pure joy)
which illuminates it, and there should again be something and satyarupa (of the nature of absolute truth). It is
to illuminate that which illuminates Caitanya. And, it unattached to anything and free from duality).
continues ad infinitum. This state of no conclusion is (21) Sa punah kamakarmadi-
called anavastha dosa. Also one thing cannot be, at the yuktaya sviyamayaya /
same time, the subject (actor) and the object of action, purvanubhutasamskarat
and that invites the draw-back of paradox. Therefore, kalakarmavipakatah //
O King of mountains understand that Caitanya
!
(22) Avivekacca tattvasya
is self-illuminating and it illuminates other things by its sisrksavan prajayate /
Ata eva ca nityatvam fested is praised by all sastras to be the cause of all
(16)
proktarh sacchastrakovidaih / causes and the basis of all tattvas. It is also the basis of
anandarupata casyah allknowledge, action and volition and realizable only
parapremaspadatvatah // through the hrimkara mantra) .
ISVARA 334 ISVARA
(26) Tasmadiikasa utpannah Viratdeha (Cosmic body) is the sum total of these indi-
Sabdatanmatrarupakah / vidual material bodies. The inner conscience and bodily
bhavet spars atmako vayus- organs like ear etc. originate from the gentle and pure
tejorupatmakam punah aspects of the five elements.
(27) Jalaih rasatmakaih pas cat (35) Jnanendriyanam rajendra !
spaiiarupa. This vayu again gave rise to Agni (Vayo- pratyekarii militaistaistu
ragnih). Then came water which corresponds to the prano bhavati pancadha //
was divided into two). Then by a process of the combi- factors). This forms the Suksmasarira whose prakrti
nation of these ten parts different substances were born is two-fold (as mentioned below).
sa mayeti nigadyate //
svasvetaradvitiyarhse
yojanat panca panca te // One is pure maya and the other is avidya possessing
(
Each half of each of these five bhutas again is subdi- properties).
vided into four parts. These 1 /8 parts are joined to (43) Tasyarii yat pratibirhbariisyad-
the other halves and by combining them in other fractions bimbabhutasya cesituh
the material bodies (sthulas arlras) of all beings are sa Isvarah sama.khya.tah
made). svasrayajnanavan parah //
(Brahmacaitanya reflected in this maya is Isvara Devadarsa were Magadha, Brahmabali, Saut-
ples of
(God). That Isvara is the same as the atman (soul), kayani and Pippalada. Pathya had three disciples.
brahman absolute, creator of everything, omniscient, They were Jabali, Kumuda and Saunaka. Of these
and the cause of all blessings. The soul reflects to a Jabali was a famous expounder of Atharvaveda. (Visnu
small extent in avidya also) .
Purana, Arhsa 3).
(45) Tadeva jivasamjnam syat JABALI II. Son of Rtadhvaja, a hermit. (See under
sarvaduhkhasrayarh punah / Visvakarma, Para 2) .
sasana Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 55, it is stated that JAGANNATHA 'PAIilDITA. A very powerful and ruthless
Jabali was one of the sons of ViSvamitra. They literary critic in Sanskrit. He lived between 1590 and
were expounders of the Vedas. Though he was the son 1665. He is also known as Panditaraja (King of scho-
of Visvamitra his life was mostly connected with Va- lars) His most important and well-known work is
.
sistha. The Puranas do not make it clear how this son Rasagangadhara. To this day it remains as an invalu-
of Visvamitra happened to fall into the circle of Vasi- able treasure in rhetorics. (Alankara Sastra).
stha who was a foe of Visvamitra. He was one of the His poetic theory is "Ramaniyarthapratipadakah Sabdah
seven spiritual advisers of King Daxaratha. It is men- Kavyam". (Words which convey beautiful meanings
tioned in Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga 48 that constiiute poetry). He vehemently opposed trie dhvani
eight hermits such as Suyajna, Vamadeva, Jabali, vada (suggestive words and phrases conveying more
Kasyapa Vasistha and others lived in Ayodhya. in the meanings produce more rasa than they literally
palace of the King Dasaratha. and apparently appear to carry). Citramlmarhsa-
When Bharata went to the forest, to bring Sri Rama Khandana is another work, of the Panditaraja. In
back to Ayodhya, Jabali also followed him. Jabali this work another rhetorician named Appayadiksita is
argued with Sri Rama, using several arguments, to make strongly criticised. The allegoric poem, "Bhaminivila-
him return to Ayodhya. These arguments made Sri sam", is supposed to have been written by this great
Rama angry. But he was pacified by the consoling words rhetorician based on the untimely death of his wife,
of Vasistha. (Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhya Kanda). Bhamini. He has also written five other works, the five
Jabali comes in the line of disciples of Vyasa. Vyasa Laharls [Gangalaharl etc].
divided the Veda and taught Sumantu Atharvaveda. JAGATl. One of the seven horses which draw the cha-
The hermit Sumantu first taught Atharvaveda to his riotof Surya. Gayatrl, Brhati, Usnik, Jagati, Trstubh,
disciple Kabandha who divided it into two parts and Anustubh and Paiikti are the seven horses. (Visnu
taught two disciples Devadarsa, and Pathya. The disci- Purana, Part II, Chapter 8).
JAGRAT 336 JAGRAT
jAGRAT. According to the vision of Rsis or sages, every treme delight; ponds, wells and rivers where there are
living being has four states. are Jagrat (waking
They no ponds, wells and' rivers. A dreamer is a Lord; the
state), Svapna (dream), Susupti (profound sleep) and state of the dream is the state of activity." Another
Turiya (the fourth state of the soul, i.e. oneness with hermit says as follows about the state of dream :
ka) .
Yatra svapno na karhcana kamarii kamayate na kancana
3 (a)
(b) Jagaritasthano bahihprajnah saptangah ekoDavimsati-
mukhah sthulabhukvaisvanarah.
svapnam pasyati tat susuptam susuptasthane ekibhutah
(Mandukyopanisad) prajnanaghanam cva anandamayarii hi anandabhukceto-
2 (a) Sa yatra prasvapityasya lokasya sarvato
matramupadaya mukhah
prajnah. (Mandukya, Tritlya pada).
svayam vihatya svayarh nirmaya svena bhasa svena jyotisa prasva-
pityatrayaib purusah svayam jyotirbhavati (Brhadaranyaka). (b)Saptasthanontah prajfiah saptangah ekonavimSatimukhah
(b) Atraiva devah svapnamahimaDam anubhavati praviviktabhuk taijaso. (Dvitiyapada Mandukya)
yad
drstam drstamanupasyati srutam srutamevartham 4 Tadyathasminnakase syeno va suparno va viparipatya srantah
anusrnoti. Dasadigantaraisca pratyanubhutam punah sarhhatya paksau sarhlayayaiva dhriyata cvam ayarh purusah
punah pratyanubhavati, drstam cadrstam casrutam ca etasma antaya dhavati, yatra supto na kaiiicana kamarh kamayate no
srutam canubhutam ca ananubhutarh ca saccasacca kaiiicana svapnam pasyati.
sarvam pasyati sarvarii pasyati. (Prasnopanisad) .
(Brhadarankyaa)
JAGUDA 337 JAIMINI I
in the state of samadhi (contemplation) of yoga or when this King was surrounded by enemies once, the
union with the universal be
soul. When it came to Asvinidevas got him into their chariot and through
known that this supernal bliss could be enjoyed even easily passable ways took him to the top of a mountain.
after one had awakened from contemplation, a fourth JAIGlSAVYA. A hermit who attained salvation by the
state of the jlvatma (individual soul) was recognized. strength of his penance.
But in the Brhadaranyaka only three states of the It is stated in Harivarhsa Chapter 18, that three
jlvatma are mentioned. daughters, Apama, Ekaparna and Ekapatala were
Immersion of the individual soul by the yogin in the born to Himalaya by Mena and the hermit Devala
universal soul Brahman in the state of jagrat or married Ekaparna and the hermit Jaiglsavya married
activity is called Turlya. The individual soul which Ekapatala. In Mahabharata, Sand Parva, Chapter
is in the state of Turlya, is described as follows in the 229, mention is made that this hermit gave much
Chandogyopanisad. advice to the hermit Devala, son of Asita, about the
"The jivatma which is in the state of Turlya is not need for equanimity. On another occasion this hermit
conscious internally. He whose inner consciousness is talked to Yudhisthira about the glory of Siva. (M.B.
active is Taijasa. He is not bahihprajfia (conscious of Anusasana Parva, Chapter 18, Stanza 37).
'the outer world) Bahihprajna .is Vaisvanara. He is There is a story about how this hermit Jaiglsavya
not a combination of Taijasa and Turlya. He is not attained the world of Brahma. Once he reached the
compact with consciousness as a conscious man not a hermitage of Devala, who showed the necessary
conscious man; nor is he an unconscious man. He, who hospitalities. After a few days this hermit disappeared.
could be explained only by negations, cannot be seen. After that he used to be seen only at the time of meals.
He is unmanifestable, indiscernible, unthinkable, Once Devala took his waterpot and went by air to the
indescribable and without any characteristic mark. sea, to fetch water. When he reached the sea he saw
Only by unswerving faith could he be known. It Jaiglsavya bathing there. Devala had gone when
and at the same time negates
creates the universes it. Jaiglsavya was in the hermitage. How did he reach
It the supreme reality, the one without a second
is the sea before Devala ? Devala filled the pot and
(dvaita) This is the state of Turlya. 1
. returned thoughtful. When he reached the hermitage
Vaisvanara is called the soul with annamayakosa (the Jaiglsavya was there. After this Devala travelled
material body) , Taijasa, the soul with Pranamayakos a through the world of the inspired sages. Wherever he
(
the sheath of the life breaths) Prajna, the soul with
, went, he saw Jaiglsavya. He asked the inspired
Vijnanamayakosa (the sheath of understanding) and sages how it was possible. They praised the attain-
Turlya, the soul with anandamayakosa (the chest of ments, Jaiglsavya had obtained, by his 'tapas'
bliss). (penance) Finally in the sight of everybody, Jaiglsavya
.
JAGUDA. A country in ancient India. In Mahabharata, flew to the world of Brahma. (M.B. Salya Parva,
Vana Parva, Chapter 51, Stanza 25, it is mentioned Chapter 50).
that the King of this country took part in the It ismentioned in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter
Rajasuya (royal consecration) performed by Yudhi- 11, Stanza 24, that this hermit Jaigisavya sits in the
sthira.
palace of Brahma and carries on meditation and con-
JAHNAVI. The river Ganga. (See under Jahnu). templation on Brahma.
JAHNU. A hermit King born in the family of Puru.
1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following JAIMINI I.
Sarhyati Rahovadi Raudrasva Matinara Paila, Vaisampayana and Suka were the five important
Santurodha Dusyanta Bharata Suhotra Brhatputra disciples of Vyasa. Of these Suka was the son of
Vyasa. In Devi Bhagavata, it is mentioned that
Ajamidha Jahnu.
Ajamidha had three wives, Dhumini, -NllI and Kesini. Vyasa had other disciples also in his hermitage, such
Rksa was born from Dhumini, Dusyanta and Para- as Asita, Devala and others. The five disciples men-
mesthi from Nil! and Jahnu from Kes in!. The descen- tioned first gave publication to the work of Vyasa
dants of Jahnu are called the Kusikas. Jahnu handed called 'Java', which was the original of the Maha-
over his kingdom to his son Balakasva and went to bharata. Vaisampayana and Jaimini made some
additions to the work 'Jaya'. In Sanskrit there is
perform penance. Kusika was the son of Balakasva.
Drank up the river Ganges. The river Ganga, which another book called Jaimini Bharata, which contains
2)
flowed through the earth in accordance with the only AJvamedha Parva. (See under Guruparampara) .
Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 17, Sukta 116, that (3) Jaimini had been a member of the council of
Nantah prajnam na bahihpraj fiam nobhayatah prajnarh na prajiianaghanam na prajnarb naprajnam adrsfam avyahiaryam
i
agrahvam alaksanam arintyam avyapadesyam ekatmapratyayasararn prapanropasamam santarh sivam advaitaiii caturtham manyate sa atma.
sa vijiieyah.
JAIMINI II 338 JALAPRALAYA
Yudhisthira. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza JALADHARA. A mountain in Sakadvlpa (The island
11). ofSaka). (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 11, Stanza
(4) This hermit visited Bhisma in his bed of arrows 16).
during the Bhfxrata Battle. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter JALADHI. The crocodile which is the conveyance of
46, Stanza 7). Varuna. It is mentioned in Vamana Purana, Chapter 9,
JAIMINI II. The priest of Subahu the King of the about conveyances of Gods as follows :
that he was killed by Bhlmasena in the battle of conveyance of Varuna is the black crocodile called
Bharata. 'Jaladhi', born from the ear-wax of Rudra, and having
JAITRAM ThechariotofKingHariscandra.lt was
I. divine power of movement. The conveyance of Vaisra-
by driving in this chariot that the
King carried out the vana (the god of wealth) is a ferocious man with eyes
conquest of countries. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 12, like two cart-wheels and body as big as mountain, who
Stanza 12). was born from the leg of Ambika. The eleven Rudras
JAITRAM II. The conch of Dhrstadyumna. (M.B. have speedy horses, terrible serpents and white oxen
Salya Parva, Chapter 61 ). of high speed. Candra has a chariot as his vehicle yoked
JAJALI. A hermit who reared birds on his head by with five hundred swans. The vehicles of the Adityas
thepower of penance. are chariots yoked with horses and camels. The convey-
This hermit who had practised continence from his ances of the Vasus are elephants, men for Yaksas, ser-
childhood lived in a forest. Jajali never thought rain, pents for Kinnaras, and horses for the ASvinldevas. The
heat of the sun, snow and such other natural things Maruts of fearful appearance have deer as conveyance.
as unbearable. Once this hermit stood like a pillar in The Vidyadharas have parrots for conveyances. An
the forest, immersed in meditation. Two birds built asura called Andhaka has a chariot with thousand posts
their nests in his matted hair. Non-violence being his as his vehicle. Prahlada had, as conveyance a divine
policy, he did not move. The birds came to their nests chariot of gold and silver yoked with eight white hor-
every evening and stayed for the night. After a few ses and elephant for Virocana, horse for Kujambha,
days they laid eggs in the nests. Still the hermit did not divine chariot yoked with yellow horses, for Sankukarna,
move. The eggs were hatched. The hermit understood elephant for Hayagriva, chariot for Maya, Great serpent
that also. Still, he did not move. The young ones got for Dundubhi, Aeroplane for Sarhbara and lion for
wings. They grew up and began to go out with the Aya;'sariku.
parent birds. They went out in the morning and JALANDHAMA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B.
returned in the evening. The hermit stood like Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 57).
a pillar. One morning they went out and JALANDHARA. A mightly and valiant Asura. Khadga-
did not return in the evening. The hermit roma was his charioteer and Vrnda was his wife.
stood there for six days waiting for the return Jalandhara was the grandson of the sea of Milk. Once
of the birds. On the sixth day evening they he met with the headless Rahu, who said to Jalandha-
returned. Next time the hermit waited for a month ra, the whdle story beginning from the churning of the
for the return of the birds. They did not return. So he sea of Milk. Jalandhara, became furious at the gods who
started from there and went to the sea and dipped in had churned his grandfather. So he collected a big
the water and
said, "there is no man more virtuous army of asuras and went to war with the devas. Though
than I either in water or on
land" with haughtiness. But a large number of Asuras were killed in the battle,
the water demons said in an ethereal voice that Tula- Indra and Visnu were defeated and Visnu was taken
dhara, the merchant of Kasi was more virtuous than captive and hidden under the sea. Finally Paramasiva
he. went to fight with the Asura. In the fight Jalandhara
Hearing this Jajali went to Kasi and saw Tuladhara. was killed and Visnu was rescued. (Padma Purana,
Tuladhara greeted him gladly and they talked for a Chapters 3 to 5) For further details see under Maya-
.
country known as Kumudottaravarsa is near this Babylonian literature also. The book 'Gilgamish' which
mountain. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 11, Stanza is as old as the Rgveda, is considered to be the oldest
tion. This library was built by the King Asurbanipal mentioned in Mahabharata, Drona Parva, Chapter
in 7th century 15. C., on a very high place on the bank 115, Stanza 52, that he was killed by Satyaki in the
of the river Tigris, in the ancient Nineveh. battle of Bharata.
All these clay tablets have been removed to the British JALELA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B. Salya
Museum. It took several decades to decipher them. Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 16).
When these clay tablets were discovered there was not a JALESVARI. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B.
single man who could read and understand them, in Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 16) .
the world. In spite of hard work, several years passed JALEYU. A son born to Raudrasva the son of Puru, by
by without getting even a single tablet deciphered. They a celestial woman named Mis rakes I. Mention is made
were written in 'Accadean', which was the language about Jaleyu in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 94,
of the court of A& urbanipal and the national and the Stanza 10.
international language of the time. Another copy of JAM. It means gltam (music). (Agni Purana, Chapter
this great work was discovered on the bank of the Eu- 348).
phrates, where the capital of the famous King Hamu- JAMADAGNI. A hermit of majestic power. He was the
rabi of Ancient Babylon stood. Later discoveries dis- father of Parasurama.
closed that this great work Gilgamish was part and 1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following
parcel of the famous ancient civilization of the Oriental order are : Brahma
Bhrgu Cyavana Aurva
countries. The Hittites and the Egyptians tried to trans- Rclka Jamadagni.
late this book Gilgamish into their own languages. In 2) Birth. There is an interesting story about the birth
the tablets with letters in the form of arrow heads, found of Jamadagni. Gadhi was the son of king Kusamba. A
on the bank of the Nile, the portions which were diffi- daughter named Satyavati was born to Gadhi. The
cult for them to translate, are given red marks. hermit Rclka giving a dowry of one thousand horses,
It was from a small piece of broken clay tablet that each with one black ear, married Satyavati. Once
clues to the origin of this famous work were obtained. Satyavati told her husband that herself and her mother
The world is indebted to the Sumerians, who had their wanted to get a child each. After the sacrifice of obla-
capital in the place where the city Ur stands, for the tions to Agni (fire) Rclka took two parts filled with
,
original work of Gilgamish. boiled rice and gave them to Satyavati, with mantras
Mention is made about a great flood in Gilgamish, as (spells) The radiance of Brahma was invoked into
.
follows: Gilgamish set out on an adventurous journey to one pot and the radiance of Ksatra was invoked into
see his ancestor Utnapistim to learn from him the means the other. The hermit had asked Satyavati to eat the
of obtaining eternal life. The gods had told this man rice into which the radiance of Brahma had been in-
about the secret of eternal life. At last Gilgamish reached voked and to give the other pot to her mother. But the
an island and found out his ancestor and asked him daughter and mother changed the pots secretly and
about the secrets of eternal life. Utnapistim said that Satyavati ate the rice in the pot into which Ksatra radi-
he had lived in 'Shoorappak' and that he had been an ance was invoked and gave the pot of rice filled with
ardent devotee of 'lya' God. When the gods decided Brahma-radiance to her mother. Both the women con-
to destroy mankind by a great flood the God lya called ceived. As the qhild grew in the womb the radiance of
his devotee Utnapistim and said to him "You, man of Brahma shone on the face of the mother and Ksatra
shoorappak, the son of Urbartutu Demolish your house
: lustre was seen on the face of Satyavati. Rclka asked
and build a ship. Leave off your wealth and search for Satyavati for the reason. She admitted the secret inter-
your life. Cast away your property and save your life. change of the pot.
Bring the seeds of every living thing into the ship. The Satyavati and her mother both delivered at the same
ship you build should be according to measurements." time. Satyavati got the son Jamadagni, who was the
The rest of the story is like the story of the "Ark of embodiment of Ksatra tejas and the child with Brahma
Noah". The scientists are of opinion that in pre-historic tejas born to the mother was Visvamitra. Therefore, in
times the three continents of Asia, Europe and Africa some Puranas Visvamitra is described as the uncle of
were one continent and that by earthquake or some Jamadagni whereas in some others they are said to be
other reason the south part of Europe had sunk down brothers. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 57) .
and water flowed in and thus the mediterranean sea 3) A house-holder. When Jamadagni grew up he made
came into existence. At a time when the far off regions a tour and visited the holy places one by one and
of the earth were unknown, the people who escaped reached the palace of King Prasenajit of the family of
the flood imagined that the entire world had been sub- Iksvaku. He saw Renuka the beautiful daughter of
merged by the flood. It could be imagined that this King Prasenajit and fell in love with her. He requested
story of the great flood passed on to posterity verbally Prasenajit for the hand of Renuka. The King, without
and after so many generations it appeared in different raising any objection gave his daughter Renuka in
marriage to Jamadagni. The couple came to the bank
1
regions in different languages in different forms.
i In writing about Jalapralaya, I have dealt with Gilgamish a little elaborately. Details on Gilgamish were obtained from the
English translation of a famous German work by Venar Keller. This book had not been received when I wrote about the work 'Gilgamish'.
So these details are included under this word "Jalapralaya".
JAMADAGNI 340 JAMADAGNI
of the river Narmada and
erecting a hermitage began by a cutting-arrow cut off the head of his mother. The
'tapas' (penance) Four sons, Rumanvan, Suhotra, Vasu
. father called the four sons who disobeyed him and
and Visvavasu were born to Jamadagni by Renuka. cursed them thus :
(Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 58 ) . "Since you have disobeyed the order of your father,
4) The birth of Parusu rama. Because of the wickedness because of your ignorance, you shall become foresters
of the Ksatriya Kings, the goddess Earth became and live in forest."
miserable. She made a representation to Brahma who Being overwhelmed with sorrow at the death of his
took her to the sea of Milk and told Mahavisnu every- mother, Parasurama swooned and fell down. When
thing. Mahavisnu promised to take an incarnation as his anger subsided, discretion dawned on Jamadagni.
the son of Jamadagni and destroy all the wicked Kings. He aroused his son and took him on his lap and asked
Accordingly Renuka gave birth to Parasurama, who him what boon he wanted for having accomplished
was an incarnation of Mahavisnu. (Brahmanda Purana, the unaccomplishable task. Paras urama's request
Chapter 59). was that his mother should be brought to life again.
5) Jamadagni getting the bow of Visnu. Once the devas The hermit was pleased and he brought Renuka to
(gods) desired to know who, of Siva and Visnu was life again. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 60).
the more powerful. They informed Brahma of their 7) The sun gave Jamadagni an umbrella and sandals. See
desire. Brahma asked Visvakarma to make two tremen- under the word Cerippu (Sandals) .
dous bows. He gave one to Siva and the other to 8) The temptation of Dharma. See under the word
Visnu. The bow which Visnu got was known as Vaisna- 'Dharma' Para 6.
vacapa and that which Siva got was known as 9) Jamadagni was killed. Once Kartavlryarjuna, with
Saivacapa. After this Brahma caused enmity between hisminister Candragupta and some attendants had
Siva and Visnu. A terrible battle ensued between Siva been hunting in the forests on the banks of the river
and Visnu. After a while the Saivacapa became Narmada. It was noon. The hunters grew tired of
less effective. At the request of the devas, the fight was hunger and thirst. They came to the hermitage of
stopped. The devas decided that Visnu was superior to Jamadagni. The hermit called his divine cow Su:>ila
Siva, in power. Siva got angry at this decision and and ordered her to give food to the King and his party.
gave his bow to Devarata Janaka, the King of Videha. Within a few seconds meals were got ready for
It was this bow that Sri Rama broke at the marriage thousands of people. The King and his attendants had
of Slta. a feast. On their return journey the wonderful cow
Seeing that Siva had given away his capa (bow) Susila was the subject of their talk. The King wanted
Mahavisnu gave his bow to his devotee, the hermit to get the cow which possessed divine power. So he
Rcika. That Vaisnava capa was given to Jamadagni sent his minister Candragupta to the hermitage of
by Rcika. Thus the famous Vaisnava capa arrived at Jamadagni with instructions to get the cow Susila in
the hermitage of Jamadagni. (Valmiki Ramayana, exchange for a crore of cows or even half of the
Bala Kanda, Sarga 75) .
kingdom. But the hermit was not prepared to give
6) Renuka was killed. Parasurama became fourteen the cow. The minister and his men caught the cow
years old. Jamadagni went to the forest to gather by force and went away. The hermit, filled with grief,
fruits, roots etc. After completing the cleansing work followed the party a long way through the forest, and
of the hermitage, leaving Parasurama in the forest, requested Candragupta to return the cow. Candra-
Renuka went to the bank of the river Narmada (Reva) gupta got angry and struck him to death, and took the
to fetch water. When she reached the river, Karta- cow to the palace, in the capital city of Mahismatl.
viryarjuna and his wives were playing in water. She After waiting for a long time, Renuka started in search
waited for them to go. When they were gone she got of her husband. She saw Jamadagni lying almost dead,
into the river. But as the water was muddy because of in a pool of blood. She fell down and beating her
the play, she walked a little to the east where there breast cried aloud. Para^urama with Akrtavrana and
was pure water. She saw there Citraratha the King other disciples came there. When she saw her son
ofSalva playing with his wife in the water. How Parasurama, she beat her breast twentyone times
1
blazed. He called his sons one by one and ordered 10) Death of Jamadagni. Parasurama and Akrtavrana
them to kill her. But the four elder sons did not dare went to the city of Mahismatl with the intention of
to execute his order saying that slaughter of a woman bringing the calf of Susila back. They stood
at the
was a great sin. But Parasurama came forward and gate of the city and challenged Kartavlryarjuna for
a
i his
Seeing mother beating her breast twentyone times, Bhiirgava caught hold of her hands and said "Mother , stop
afflictingyour body. Don't be sorry. I am here to end your sorrow. Since you have beaten your breast twentyone times, I will annihilate
the Ksatriya Kings twentyone times." Bhargava Rama took an oath thus, to his mother.
JAMAGHA 341 JAMBAVAN
fight. Kartavlryarjuna came out with his army. In There are two stories about the birth of Jambavan in the
the battle which ensued, Kartavirya and his sons and Puranas.
most of his warriors fell dead. Parasurama and (1) Brahma sat for a long time thinking about the
Akrtavrana returned with the calf. Jamadagni asked creation of monkeys. Then he wanted to yawn., for
Parasurama to go to Mahendragiri and do penance in which he opened the mouth and instantly Jambavan
order to mitigate the sin of killing a large number of came out from inside Brahma through the open mouth.
people. When Parasurama had gone for penance, "I have already created Jambavan the noble bear, who
Surasena a son of Kartavlryarjuna came with his men jumped out of my mouth when I yawned." (Valmiki
to the hermitage, cut off the head of Jamadagni and Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga 17, Stanza 6).
took it away. Parasurama and the disciples of (2) One day time of Brahma ended and the night had
Jamadagni placed the dead body of Jamadagni on the advanced two yamas (six hours) The Madhukaitabhas
.
pyre and burnt it. Renuka jumped into that fire and born of the ear-wax of Mahavisrm began to create
died. After this Parasurama began his twentyone trouble and commotion in the waters of the great flood.
tours for the extermination of the Ksatriya Kings. They saw a lotus oil the surface of water. Seeing Brahma
(Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 86) . in it they challenged him for fight. Hearing their shout-
11) Other information. (1) Udayana grew up in the ing and the challenge Brahma became afraid of the
hermitage of Jamadagni. (See under Udayana). asuras. His middle face began to sweat. The sweat
(2) Jamadagni was one of the hundred sons of Rclka. flowed through his cheeks and reached the loins. Jamba-
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Stanza 45) . van came into being from that sweat. So he got the
(3) Jamadagni was one of the hermits, who visited name Ambujata, (born from the water of sweat) As .
Sri Rama on his return from forest life. The hermits he was the first person who entered the country of
who came to Ayodhya from the North were, Kasyapa, Jambunada he was called Jambavan. As he was born
Bharadvaja, the Sanakas, Sarabhariga, Durvasas, when there was no universe or time his age or date
Matanga, Vibhandaka, Tumburu and the Saptarsis of birth could not be ascertained. At the time of Sri
(the seven hermits) Uttara Ramayana)
. . Rama Jambavan was six Manvantaras (age of a Manu )
(4) Jamadagni was present the Janmotsava (birth
at and for hundred and sixtyfour Caturyugas (a period of
celebration) of Arjuna. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 122, four yugas) old. (The present age is the twentyeighth
Stanza 51) . Caturyuga of the seventh Manu). Jambavan had wit-
(5) This hermit is a luminary in the assembly of nessed all the incarnations from Matsya to Sri Rama.
Brahma. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 11, Stanza 22). (Kamba Ramayana Purva Kanda) .
(6) During the time of the battle of Maha.bha.rata, 2) Jambavan and the incarnationof Sri Rima. During the
Jamadagni entered Kuruksetra and advised Drona to time of Sri Rama Jambavan was the minister of
stop the battle. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 190, Sugriva. It stated in Valmiki Ramayana, Kiskindha
is
Stanza 35) . Kanda, Sarga 41, that Nila, the son of Agni, Hanuman,
(7)Jamadagni once delivered a speech on the bad Jambavan, Suhotra, Sarari, Saragulma, Gaja, Gavaksa,
sides of accepting rewards, to the King Vrsadarbhi. Gavaya, Susena, Rsabha, Mainda, Dvivida, Vijaya,
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 93, Stanza 44) . Gandhamadana, Ulkamukha, Asanga, Angada and
others were the ministers of Sugriva.
(8) Jamadagni vowed that he was innocent in the
affair of the stealing of Agastya's lotus. (M.B. Anusas- The monkeys who went to the south in search of Sita,
ana Parva, Chapter 94, Stanza 25 .
reached the sea shore. The question was how to jump
over the sea to Lanka. Each of them came forward to
12) The Names of Jamadagni. Arclka, Bhargava, Bhar-
show his ability and admitted failure. Finally Jambavan
gavanandana, Bhrguiiardula, Bhrgusrestha, Bhrguttama called Hanuman to him and advised him to jump over
Rclkaputra are the names used by Vyasa to denote to Lanka. Hanuman who was not aware of his own
Jamadagni, in Bharata. 2
powers, refused. Jambavan told him about his birth,
JAMAGHA. A King of the family of Yayati. (Bhaga- self-power, attainment of boons etc. Hanuman became
vata, Skandha 9) .
convinced of his powers at the words of Jambavan and
JAMBAVAN. A monkey of extraordinary might. He jumped over the sea to Lanka. (Ramayana, Kiskindha
was the minister of Sugriva. 1 Kanda ) .
1) Birth. Wherl the troubles and hardships caused by 3) Jambavan and the incarnation of Vdmana. Jambavan
the wickedness of Ravana became unbearable the walked round Mahavisnu, who incarnated as Vamana
goddess Earth and the Devas approached Brahma for to curb the powers of Mahabali. At that time
redress. Brahma took them to the sea of Milk. Maha- Jambavan was immensely strong. But by the time of
visnu heard everything and said that he would incarnate the incarnation of Sri Rama his strength had decreased
as the son of Dasaratha and would kill Ravana. Brahma much. Hear what he said to the monkeys who as-
was directed to create monkeys to help him on that sembled on the sea shore to go in search of Sita.
occasion. Accordingly Brahma created Jambavan and "My abilities in olden times were not what you see
several other monkeys. now. In the far old days, I had walked round that
It is difficult to ascertain whether Jambavan was a monkey or a
1 bear. In some of the Indian languages he is descri bed as a
monkey. In Malayalam he was thought of as a monkey from ancient period. In Valmiki Ramayana, which is the original work. Jamba-
van is denoted by the words 'Kapi' (monkey) and Rksa (bear). Jambavan is called Rksapurigava in Valmiki Ramayana Balakanda
Sarga 17. From this it is to be assumed that Jambavan was a bear, In the same chapter it occurs that, it was the aim of Brahma to
make the gods and the celestial women take birth as monkeys to help Mahavisnu in the incarnation of Sri Rama. So it is not
wrong to consider Jambavan either as a bear or as a monkey.
2 For the cause of his forgetting his own powers see under Trnabindu II.
JAMBAVATI 342 JAMBtFDVlPA
Eternal Being Visnu when he measured three steps at 38, that Sri Krsna killed an Asura named Jambha.
the sacrifice of Mahabali. Now, I am very old and Mention is made in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
have not enough strength" to jump over the sea." Chapter 98, Stanza 49 that the teacher Sukra refused
(Valmlki Ramayana, Kiskindha kanda, Sarga 65) . to help a Jambha whom Indra killed later. It occurs
4) Jambavan and the incarnation of Sri Kr,ma. The long- in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 102, Stanza
living Jambavan who had witnessed nine out of the 24, that Mahfivisnu had killed an asura called Jambha.
ten incarnations of Mahiivisnu is seen in connection It is stated in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 285,
with the precious stone Syamantaka, in the incarnation Stanza 2, that a group of Jambhasuras, who had
ofKrsna. The Sun-god gave this jewel Syamantaka to undergone training under Rfivana, once attacked
King Satrajit. His younger brother Prasena wore it Hanuman. Another Jambhusura had been killed by
and went to the forest for hunting. A lion killed him Arjuna, as stated in Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva,
and took the jewel in his mouth and was going along Chapter 49. All these Danavas (Asuras) were sons of
the forest when Jambavan killed it and took the jewel. KaSyapa born of his wife Danu.
It was rumoured that Sri Krsna had killed Prasena JAMBHAKA. A Ksatriya King. This King was killed
and taken the jewel. So Sri Krsna went in search of in battle by Sri Krsna. He had a son who, later
the jewel to the forest, defeated Jambavan and took the became King but was killed 'by Sahadeva in his
jewel, and returned it to Satrajit. Sri Krsna married conquest of the countries. ( M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter
Jambavati the daughter of Jambavan. (Bhagavata, 31, Stanza 7).
Skandha 10). JAMBTj. A tree which stands on the southern side of
5) Jambavan became old for ever. At the time of the the mount Mahameru. This tree bears fruits and
incarnation of Vamana, Jambavan was very strong flowers throughout the year irrespective of the seasons.
and valiant. When Vamana brought under control the This tree is watered by the Siddhacaranas. The
three worlds by measuring three steps Jambavan branches of this tree reach the realm of heaven. The
travelled throughout the three worlds carrying the news place in which this tree stands is known as Jambu-
everywhere. Within three moments Jambavan dvlpa. The ripe fruits as big as elephants fall down and
travelled eighteen times through the three worlds. In are broken. The juice oozing from them flows as a big
this travelof lightning-speed the end of the nail of his stream. This is called the river Jambu. It flows through
toe touched the highest peak of Mahameru, who the southern part of the country known as llavrtta.
considered it as an insult and said "You are arrogant The goddess who lives on the bank of this big river is
of your speed and youth. Hereafter your body will known as Jambvadinl. She is very fond of Jambu fruit.
not reach where your mind reaches and you shall be This goddess who loves everything in the world, is
ever old." Because of this curse Jambavan became old worshipped by the gods, nagas (snakes) , the hermits and
and unable to carry out what he wished. (Kamba sages, Raksasas (giants) and every body in the
world
Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda) . with devotion. Even by the mere thinking of her she
JAMBAVATI. Daughter of the famous Jambavan. Sri could be pleased. She destroys the sins and increases
Krsna went in search of the famous precious stone the purity of people. She cures all the diseases and
Syamantaka which was lost when Prasena wore it and gives people, health, wealth, longlife, prosperity and
went to the forest for hunting. Krsna found it in the happiness.
cave of Jambavan, who fought with him and was The juice of the Jambu fruit when mixed with soil and
defeated. Finally he gave his daughter Jambavati to acted upon by water, air and sun's rays, turns into a
Sri Krsna as wife, and the jewel Syamantaka as dowry. kind of gold called Jambunada. The devas, Vidya-
Sri Krsna came to his capital Dvaraka with his wife dharas etc. use this gold to make ornaments for their
Jambavati. When sons were born to the other wives women. This gold is superior to other kinds of gold.
ofKrsna she became sad and requested her husband (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 8) .
that sons may be born to her also. On hearing this JAMBUDVIPA. One of the Puranically famous
request Krsna went to the mountain where the Saptadvlpas (seven continents). These seven continents
hermit Upamanyu was engaged in penance. With that are embankments separating the seven seas. Jambu-
hermit who was an ardent devotee of Siva, as his dvipa, Krauncadvlpa, Sakadvipa and Puskaradvlpa are
teacher, Krsna began a penance before Siva, in included in the seven islands.
accordance with his ( Upamanyu's) advice. The Jambudvlpa has an area of one lakh of yojanas. The
penance, holding yogadanda and Kapala (devotee's island is round like a lotus flower. There are eight
staff and skull) lasted for a month. In the second long mountain ranges which divide the island into
month penance was performed standing on one 'eg and nine countries, which look like nine petals of the lotus
drinking only water. In the third month he did flower. Each of these nine countries has an area of nine
penance standing on toes only and using air as food. thousand yojanas. The two countries of the north and
After six months Paramasiva appeared and blessed south extremities are bowshaped. Four of the remain-
him that his wives would have ten sons each. Accor- ing seven are longer than the rest. The central country
dingly Jambavati gave birth to her first son who was is square. This country is known as llavrtta, at the
named Samba. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 4). centre of which there is the mountain Sumeru with
JAMBHA. A Daitya (Asura). He was the chief among a height of one lakh of yojanas. This is called
those who snatched away Amrta from the hands of Svarnaparvata (The mountain of gold) The top of.
Dhanvantari. (Agni Purana, Chapter 3). this mountain is a great flat place with an area of
In the Puranas several Asuras (demons) bear- thirtythousand yojanas. This great plain is ten thousand
ing the name Jambha are mentioned. It is stated in yojanas above the ground level. On the northern part
Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Daksinatyapatha, Chapter of llavrtta lie the three mountain ranges of Nilagiri,
JAMBUKA 343 JAMBUNADA II
Svetagiri and Smgavan, and midway between them to Lord Siva, and only after that he ate it. As a result of
the three countries called Ramyaka, Hiranmaya and that the fruit germinated in the stomach of the sage
Kuru. Onthe southern part of llavrtta, there are the grew up into a tree and emerged into light and air
three mountains of Nisadha, Hemakuta and Himalaya bursting his head open. Elated at this the sage danced
and three countries Harivarsa, Kimpurusa and before God, who asked him to return to the place from
Bharata. The mountain Malyavan lies to the west and where he got the fruit. Accordingly he returned to
Gandhamadana to the east of llavrtta. There are two Tiruvanakovil and continued his penance. Pleased so
countries Ketumala and BhadriisVa having an area of much with the Sage Siva followed him and sat under
two thousand yojanas each with the two mountains the tree. From that day onwards Siva came to be
Nila and Nisadha as boundaries. At the foot of the called Jambunatha. To this day Jarrbunatha sits under
mount Mahameru, there are the mountains of the Jambu tree.
Mandara, Meru, Suparsvaka, Kumuda and many Later, a temple came to be built there under the follow-
others. On those mountains big trees like naval ing circumstances. A controversy arose between Mal-
(syzygium jambolanum) Makanda (Mango tree) yavan and Puspadanta, two of the Bhutaganas of Siva,
Katambu (Naucka Candamba) banyan etc. grow in as to who cherished more devotion to the Lord. The
plenty. On the top of these mountains there are four controversy developed into a quarrel and Puspadanta
lakes, full of milk, honey, juice ofsugarcane and sweet cursed Malyavan into a spider, and Malyavan cursed
water. The devas become prosperous by the touch of Puspadanta into an elephant. Now, when the mutual
the water of these lakes. Besides these parks there -are curse took effect wisdom dawned on both Malyavan and
four heavenly parks known as Nandana, Caitraratha, Puspadanta, and they took refuge in the Lord for re-
Vaibhraja and Sarvabhadraka. The women folk of the demption from the curse. The Lord sent both of them to
devas (gods) and Gandharvas (demi-gods) play in the Cola country, and after wandering about in differ-
these parks, which are convenient for couples to carry ent parts of the country both of them came to Jambu-
on lustful play. A river is formed there, by the juice kesvara, and lived there worshipping God. The elephant
oozing from the fallen mango fruits. The river is used to bathe daily in sacred tirthas, bring holy water
purple coloured and is called Arunanadi (river Aruna) . in its trunk and make an offering of it to the Lord. As
The goddess named Aruna lives here. The famous for the spider it wove a net above the head of the Lord,
Jambu tree is in this Jambudvlpa. (Devi Bhagavata, so that dried leaves did not fall on it. The elephant
Skandha 8) . used to daily sweep off the net above the head of the
JAMBUKA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B. Salya Lord and make his offering of the water thereon. But,
Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 74) . the spider would again weave the net. Thus their quar-
JAMBUKA. (JAMBUMALIKA). A Sudra Sage. The rel continued. One day the spider, in great anger, got
child of a brahmin died when Sri Rama, after his twelve into the trunk of the elephant and bit it hard. Due to
years' exile in forest had returned to Ayodhya and was unbearable pain it smashed its trunk on a granite stone
ruling the country in an ideal manner. The brahmin and fell down dead. At this God appeared and blessed
and his wife carried the dead body of their child to the both of them. The Lord also said that the sacred spot
palace with loud lamentations. Everybody felt surprised would co.me to be known as Tiruvana-Kovil (ana =
how there could be child-death in the land when the elephant Kovil= temple) in memory of Puspadanta
;
body of the brahmin child. After a rather detailed JAMBUKHAiypAVINIRMAl^A PARVA. A subsection
search Sri Rama found Jambuka at the mountain called of Bhisma Parva, in the Mahabharata. See under
Sailam doing tapas hanging from the branch of a tree Mahabharata.
on his legs with head down. He told Sri Rama that he JAMBUMALl. A Raksasa (giant) who was the son of
was the Sudra Sage called Jambuka and was performing Prahasta. Hanuman killed this Raksasa in a fight, when
tapas thus so that he might ascend to heaven in his very he went to Lauka in search of Sita, (Valmiki Ramayana
body. Sri Rama at once cut off the head of the Sudra Sundarakanda, Sarga 44).
Sage, who attained, as soon as Rama's sword fell on him,
moksa (salvation) and the dead child of the brahmin
,
JAMBUMALIKA. See under Jambuka.
returned to life again. (Uttara Ramayana). JAMBUMARGA. An ancient holy place. If one visits
Name of an idol of Siva (Linga) this place one will attain the fruits of performing the
JAMBUKESVARA. sacrifice of As vamedha
installed in Mysore. The Sivaliriga installed in thejam- (horse sacrifice). (M.B. Vana
bukesvara temple in Mysore. Jambu is a fruit tree. Parva, Chapter 62) .
There is a story about how Siva happened to come JAMBUNADA I. A mountain. The river Ganges flows
under this tree. through the valley of this mountain which is connected
Once upon a time this place was full of Jambu trees, with Mahameru. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 139,
and a recluse performing a penance under a Jambu Stanza 16) .
boons. (Santi Parva, Chapter 219). 5) Janaka got Saivacdpa. See under Jamadagni
(2) None of the 100 acaryas in his court could answer 6) Janaka and Kahotaka. See under Astavakra.
his questions about salvation satisfactorily. But, Panca- 7 ) Janaka and Aftavakra. See under Astavakra.
s ikha, who casually came to the palace advised the 8 ) Janaka in Yamaloka. King Janaka once, by his yogic
King about the means to attain salvation. (Santi Parva powers cast off his physical body. A vimana (aerial
Chapter 211). chariot) from Devaloka arrived to carry Janaka's soul
JANAKA. there. On his way to Devaloka Janaka approached
1
) Janaka was descended from Visnu in the
Genealogy. Kalapuri where innumerable sinners were being tortur-
following order Brahma, Marici Kas yapa Vivas-
: ed in the various hells. When they breathed the air
van Vaivasvata Iksvaku Nimi Mithi Udavasu which had come in contact with Janaka's body, they
Nandivardharia Suketu Devarata Brhadratha got much relief from their tortures and the fire of hell
Mahavlra Sudhrti Dhrstaketu Harya^va Maru -
now became cool and pleasing to them. When Janaka
Pratvantaka Klrtiratha Devamidha Vibudha was about to go away the inmates of hell begged him not
Mahidhraka Kirtirata Maharoman Svarnaroman to leave them in that condition. He thought to himself
Hrasvaroman Slradhvaja (Janaka) . thus: "If these beings get some comfort or happiness
2) Janaka dynasty. Danda, Vikuksi and Nimi were the from my presence I shall surely stay here in Kalapuri,
three prominent sons of Iksvaku. The dynasty of Viku- which will be my svarga (heaven) ." Thinking thus,
ksi earned reputation as the cradle of such powerful Janaka the most righteous of souls stopped there.
Kings as Vikuksi, Kratha, Mandhata. Tri^anku. Haris- And then Kala arrived there to determine suitable
candra, Sagara and Bhagiratha. Sri Rama also was punishments to the various kinds of sinners, and seeing
born in Vikuksi's dynasty. It was Nimi, the younger Janaka there, asked why he, the most virtuous and the
brother of Vikuksi who founded the Videha dynasty. purest of souls, waited there, Janaka explained his reason
There is a story about that dynasty getting the name, for standing there and added that he would quit the
Videha. Nimi decided to conduct a yajna and requested place only if Kala released all those people from hell.
Vasistha to act as high priest at the yajna. Vasistha, On hearing Janaka's answer Kala pointed out to him one
who then was busy with the affairs of another yajna by one the sinners who were being tortured in hell
asked Nimi to postpone his proposed yajna to a later and explained things as follows: "Look here, that
date. To this Nimi made no answer, and Vasistha went fellow there had seduced the wife of his most intimate
away under the impression that his suggestion had been friend, and that is why he is tied to a red hot iron bar
accepted by Nimi. Accordingly, as soon as he got free for 10,000 years. After those 10,030 years he would be
from other preoccupations Vasistha went to Nimi to born in a pig's womb, and when he is born among
conduct his yajna. But, Nimi had already performed human beings it would be as a eunuch. The other fellow
the Yajna with Gautama as high priest. Enraged at this there forcibly kissed another man's wife, and so he has
Vasistha cursed Nimi that he should lose his body and to be roasted in Raurava hell for hundred years. That
become Videha (without body). As the result of the other fellow is put into this vessel filled with blood and
curse Nimi fell down dead. As Nimi had no sons living pus with both his hands cut off as he had stolen other
the Rsis churned out of his body a child. As the child people's property. This fellow did not speak even a
was got by mathana (churning) he was named Mithi word of welcome to a tired and hungry man who sought
Janaka. After that all kings born in Mithi's dynasty his hospitality at night. That is why he has been thrown
began using the common name Janaka. into thick darkness, and there, for a hundred years, he
The actual name of Janaka, father of Sita, was Sira- must undergo the additional suffering of wasp-bite. As
dhvaja. Mithila or Mithilapuri was the city founded by for this man he had in a loud voice found fault with
Mithi. From the time of the curse pronounced on Nimi another man, and this other fellow is his friend who
the Kings of that dynasty also came to be known as listened to those vilifications attentively. And, that is
Videhas, and the country they ruled Videha. (See the reason why both of them have been pushed into
Nimi). (Devi Bhagavata, 6th Skandha). this unused well. So, all these people have to suffer for
3) Brother of Siradhvaja. Slradhvaja, the father of Sita their sins. You, King Janaka, who did only righteous
had a brother called Kuadhvaja. While Siradhvaja acts will please go away from this accursed place."
was the King of Mithila the King of SamkaSya called Janaka asked Kala how those sinners could be released
Sudhanvan attacked Mithila. Siradhvaja killed Sudhan- from hell, and Kala answered that if any good act of
JANAKA 345 JANAMEJAYA I
Janaka saluted Kala and in the divine vimana went to ( 14) Suka, the son of Vyasa not being fully satisfied by
Heaven. (Padma Purana, Chapters 30 and 31). the study of Bhagavata once visited Janaka at the
9) Artificial Janaka. While Slta was a captive in Lanka instance of his (Suka's) father, and Janaka did so
Ravana, to bring her round, deputed a very clever easily clear the doubts of Suka, which even Vyasa had
magician called Marutta to her, disguised as Janaka, not been able to successfully tackle. (Devi Bhagavata,
her father. And Marutta, in the capacity of her father 1st Skandha).
consoled her and advised her to yield to the wishes of (15) Kingjanaka did not eat flesh. (Anusasana Parva,
Ravana. But Slta did not yield, and the artificial Janaka Chapter 115, Verse 65).
assumed his original form of Marutta and went away. (16) Dharma, once in the guise of a brahmin imparted
(Kaiiiba Ramayana, Sundara Kanda). many pieces of advice to Janaka. (Asvamcdha Parva,
10) Other information about Janaka. (1) Bhimasena Chapter 32) .
defeated one Janaka, who was King of Mithila during The above facts prove that the Janaka kings, as a rule,
the time of the Pandavas. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 30, were great scholars and philosophers.
Verse 13). 1 1
) Janaka. Aindradyumni,
Synonyms of Daivarati,
(2) King Janaka was a personification or incarna- DharmadhvajX Karala, Karalajanaka; Maithila,
tion of all good qualities. (Vana Parva, Chapter 207, Mithiladhipa, Mithilesvara, Vaideha etc.
Verse 37) .
JANAKI I. A Ksatriya king who was the rebirth of
(3) Janaka,
the father of Slta, in his old age renounc- an asura named Candravinasana. It is staled in Maha-
ed his kingdom and became a recluse. (Santi Parva. bharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 20, that the
Chapter 18, Verse 4). Pandavas had sent to him a letter of invitation to take
(4) Once the sage called A:;maka imparted some part in the battle of Bharata.
pieces of advice to Janaka. (See under A^makopakhyana) . JANAKI II. See under Slta.
(
5 ) Once in a war between Janaka and a king called JANALOKA. One of the fourteen worlds. This world is
Pratardana, the army of Janaka, in the presence of the situated three crores of yojanas (leagues) away from
army of Pratardana stood aghast, and Janaka incited Dhruvapada (the region of Dhruva Pole star) according
them to fight by showing heaven and hell to them. to Visnu Purana, Arhsa II, Chapter 7) .
(Sand Parva, Chapter 99, Verse 4). JANAMEJAYA I. A famous King of the Solar dynasty
(6) Once in a war with a King called Ksemadarsi 1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus: Brahma-
when victory for Janaka was found to be an impossibi- Atri - Candra Budha - Pururavas-Ayus-Nahusa-Yayati-
-
lity he, as advised by Sage Kalakavrksaka gave his Puru - Janamejaya - Pracinvan - Pravira-Namasyu-Vlta-
daughter to Ksemadarsi in marriage. (Sand Parva, bhaya-Sundu-Bahuvidha-Samyati-Rahovadi-Raudrasva-
Chapter 106, Verse 2). Matinara - Santurodha - Dusyanta - Bharata-Suhotra-
(
7 ) Once Mandavya a great sage put many questions Suhota - Gala - Garda - Suketu - Brhatksetra-Hasti-Aja-
about Trsna (desire) to Janaka and he, the great midha-Rsa-Samvarana-Kuru-Jahnu-Suratha-Viduratria-
philosopher answered the questions quite satisfactorily Sarvabhauma-Jayatsena - Ravyaya - Bhavuka - Cakrod-
(Sand Parva, Chapter 276). dhata - Devatithi - Rksa-Bhima-Pratica-Santanu-Vyasa-
(8) On another occasion Janaka had a talk with Sage Pandu-Arjuna-Abhimanyu-Pariksit-Janamejaya.
Parasara about the attainment of prosperity and wel- 2) Birth, marriage and accession to throne. Janamejaya
fare. (Sand Parva, Chapter 296). was the son of Parlksit by his wife Madravatl. Vapu-
9) There was a King called Karala Janaka among stama, daughter of Suvarnavarman, King of Kasiwas
Janamejaya's wife. Two sons, Satanlka and Saiiku-
(
the Janaka Kings. Once Vasistha gave some good karna were born to them. Janamejaya
advice to Karala Janaka. (Santi Parva, Chapters 302-
had three
brothers called Srutasena, Ugrasena and Bhimasena.
308).
(Devi Bhagavata, 2nd Skandha Adi Parva, Chapters
;
(10) Once a Sage advised a Janaka King called Vasu- 3 and 95).
man on subjects relating to Dharma. (Santi Parva
3) Death of his father. Janamejaya's father, Parlksit
Chapter 309). ruled the country in a very distinguished manner for
(11) Vasuman Janaka, son of Devarata put many ques-
sixty While once hunting in the forest Parlksit
years.
tions to Yajnavalkya and they were answered to the became very tired and thirsty. While searching for
full satisfaction of the King. (Santi Parva, Chapters water he came across a Sage named Samlka and asked
310-318). him for some water. Samlka being engaged in medita-
(12) The Janaka King called Janadeva had once a tion did not hear the King's request. But, the
JANAMEJAYA I 346 JANAMEJAYA I
King mistaking the sage's silence for haughtiness threw Yajna gala. Janamejaya received the young Sage with
in anger a dead snake round his neck and went away. all respect and promised to grant his desire what-
But, within seven days of the incident Pariksit was ever that be. Astlka's demand was that the Sarpa Satra
bitten to death by Taksaka, king of the Nagas accord- should be stopped. Though Janamejaya was not for
ing to the curse pronounced on him by Gavijata, stopping the yajna, he was reminded of his promise to
son of sage Samika. grant any desire of Astlka and the latter insisted on the
Janamejaya was only an infant at the time of his stopping of the Satra. Janamejaya stopped it. Astlka
father's death. So the obsequies of the late king were blessed that the serpents which had died at the Satra
performed by his ministers. After that at an auspicious would attain salvation. (Adi Parva, Chapters 52-58 ;
time Janamejaya was crowned King. Within a short Devi Bhagavata, 2nd Skandha) .
time he mastered statecraft. Dhanurvidya was taught 6) Listens to the Bhdrata story. While the Sarpa Satra
by Krpacarya. Very soon he earned reputation as an was being conducted Vyasa came over there and related
He got married in due course.
efficient administrator. the whole story of the Mahabharata at the request of
(Devi Bhagavata, 2nd Skandha) .
Janamejaya. (Adi Parva, Chapter 60) .
4) His hatred towards snakes. In the course of a talk 7) Saramd's curse. Janamejaya along with his brother
one day with Janamejaya Uttanka the sage detailed to once performed a yajna of long duration at Kuruksetra.
him the circumstances of his father's death. Only While the yajna was going on, a dog (son of Saram'a
then did he understand the actual cause of Pariksit's the bitch of the Devas) came there. The three brothers
death, and the information kindled in him intense of Janamejaya beat the dog which returned to its
feelings of revenge not only against serpents but also mother, Sarama, crying. The mother asked him whe-
against the whole serpent dynasty. (Devi Bhagavata, ther he had done anything to deserve the beating, and
2nd Skandha) . he answered thus "No, mother, I had done nothing
:
clothes, and chanting mantras they made offerings in 8) Successors of Janamejaya. Janamejaya had two sons,
the sacred fire, and this created a burning sensation in Candraplda and Suryaplda by his wife Kasya. Hundred
the hearts of serpents. They began, one after another sons, experts in archery, were born to Candraplda. The
to come and fall into the fire. All varieties of serpents eldest of them, Satyakarna, ruled the country after Jana-
got consumed by the fire thus. mejaya. Satyakarna had a son called Svetakarna to
Sages like Uttanka, Candabhargava, Sarngarava, Vyasa, whom was born a son called Ajapiirsva by his wife
Uddalaka, Atreya, Pramataka, Svetaketu, Narada, Yadavl, the daughter of Sucaru. (Bhavisya Parva,
Devala, Kalaghata, isrutasravas, Kohala, DevaSarman, Chapter 1).
Maudgalya and Samasaurabha acted as Rtviks at the 9) Other Information
Satra. Though almost all the serpents courted death in defeated the King of Taksarlila and sub-
(1) Janamejaya
the fire, Taksaka alone did not come. Fear-stricken he
jugated the country. Adi Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 20) .
requested his sister Jaratkaru to find out some means (3) After the Sarpa Satra, Janamejaya performed an
of escape from the Satra, and at the instance of Jarat- Asvamedha yajna which Vyasa delivered a lengthy
at
karu her son Astlka set out for the palace of Janame- discourse on life and salvation. As Janamejaya said
that if he were to believe the words of Vyasa his dead
jaya to obstruct the Yajna.
father Pariksit should be shown to him. Vyasa brought
Though the Rtviks invoked for a long time Taksaka did
. not appear. Enraged at his absence Uttanka searched Pariksit down from Svarga and showed him to his son.
for Tak?aka with his divine eyes and found him seated On the occasion were also present sage Samlka and
on the throne of Indra along with him, who had given his son Sriigl. (Alramavasika Parva, Chapter 35),
him (Taksaka) asylum. This challenge of Indra kindled 10) Life time of Janamejaya. The great war at Kuru-
the wrath of Uttanka all the more, and he invoked ksetra was fought in 3 138 B.C. (See under Mahabharata)
Indra, Taksaka and Indra's throne too so that all of After the war was over the Pandavas ruled the country
them might together come and fall into the fire. And, for 36 years. Vyasa took three years to compose the
lo! there came the whole lot of them. Only two minutes Mahabharata. According to the Mahaprasthtinika Parva
more and all of them would be reduced to ashes. the Pandavas set out for the forest after handing over
the government to Pariksit, who ruled the country for
By now Astlka, the son of Jaratkaru had arrived at the
JANAMEJAYA II 347 jANUJA&GHA
sixty years. From the above facts it becomes evident (giants) such as Khara Dusana, Trisiras and others.
that Janamejaya became king in 3042 B.C. (M.B. Daksinatya Patha, Sabha Parva, Chapter 38) .
11) Synonyms of Janamejaya. Bharata, Bharatasardula, Marlca allured Sita and Ravana kidnapped her in this
Bharatasrestha, Bharatadhya, Bharatarsabha, Bharatasat- place. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 147). Surpanakha
tama, Kaurava, Kauravasardula, Kauravanandana, tried to attract Sri Rama and Laksmana, and her nose
Kauravendra, Kauravya, Kurusardula, Kuril srestha, etc, were cut off, in this forest. It was in this place
Kurudvaha, Kurukulasrestha, Kurukulodvaha, Kuru- that Sri Rama cut off the head of a Raksasa (demon)
nandana, Kurupravira, Kurupurigavagraja, Kurusat- and threw it away. That head fell in the lap of a hermit
tama, Pandava, Pandavanandana, Pandaveya, Parik- called Mahodara. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 39).
sita, Pauravya etc. Janasthana is regarded as a holy place. It is mentioned
JANAMEJAYA II. One Janamejaya, a prominent mem- in Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Stanza
ber of Yamaraja's assembly is referred to in the Adi 29, that those who stay in this place and take bath in
and Sabha Paryans of the Mahabharata. This Janame- the Godavari will acquire imperial prosperity.
jaya had once been defeated by Mandhata. (Drona JANDAKARA. One of the eighteen Vinayakas, who
Parva, Chapter 62, Verse 10). He conquered the world stay near the Sun. In chapter 16 of the Sambhava
within three days. (Santi Parva, Chapter 234). Purana it is mentioned that this
Jandakara is engaged
JANAMEJAYA III. A Ksatriya King who was Krodha- in carrying out the orders of (
Yama
the god of death ) .
vasa, the Asura, reborn. He was killed by Durmukha, jAlstGALA. A country in ancient India. (M.B. Bhlsma
the son of Dhrtarastra. (Kama Parva, Chapter 6, Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 56) .
Chapter 23; Karna Parva Chapter 49). wives would become pregnant and all would give
jANAPADl A celestial maid. This celestial maid was birth to children, and that among the sons thus born,
sent by Indra to hinder the penance of the hermit Jantu also would be reborn. The mother of Jantu did
Saradvan and the moment the hermit saw this celestial not look at this project with favour. "How can we be
beauty seminal discharge occurred to him. Krpa and sure that Jantu also will be there among the sons to be
KrpI were born from that semen. (M.B. Adi Parva, born, after his death?" She was worried by this
Chapter 129). thought. The priests consoled her and said that there
JANARDANA I. A synonym of Mahavisnu (Sri Krsna) . will be a golden mole on the left flank of Jantu.
Because he made the Dasyus ( Asuras demons) tremble, Finally the mother agreed to their plan. Sacrificial
Sri Krsna was called Janardana. dais was arranged. Sacrificial fire for holy offerings was
"He, who has lotus as his seat, who is eternal, imperi- prepared. The priests tore the child into pieces and
shable and unchangeable, he who has all these attribu- offered them as oblation in the fire. When the sacrifice
tes is Pundarikaksa (lotus-eyed) and he who makes the was finished, all the hundred queens became pregnant.
Asuras tremble is Janardana." (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Each of them gave birth to a child. As the priests had
Chapter 70, Stanza 6) .
predicted, there was a golden mole on the left flank
JANARDANA II. See under Dibaka. of the child delivered by the mother of Jantu. (MiB.
JANASTHANA. This is a part of the forest Dandaka.which Vana Parva, Chapters 127 and 128) .
JAPA^(S). A group of Gods (devas) of the third By means of penance he made his body lean and worn
Manvantara (age of Manu) In that Manvantara the
. out and so got the name Jaratkaru.
Manu was Uttama, Indra was Susanti, and the 3) Marriage. The
calm and abstemious Jaratkaru
Devaganas (groups of gods) were Sudharmas, Satyas, remained unmarried for a long time. One day he
Japas, Pratardanas, and Va^avartins, the five groups, happened to meet with his Manes. They were holding
each consisting of twelve members. (See under on to a grass and were about to fall into hell, and a
Manvantara) . rat was cutting the root of the grass which was their
JAPAKA. A Brahmana who was constantly engaged in The moment the root is severed
only hold. all the
uttering Gayatri. Japaka was ordered to go to hell Manes would fall into the deep ravine of hell. It was
because certain mistakes were detected in the uttering at this juncture that Jaratkaru, met his Manes. The
of Gayatri. But Devi Savitri intervened. She appeared moment they saw him they said, "See Jaratkaru, we
before him and gave him heaven. This Japaka was a are your Manes. We
have to obtain, heaven, life, con-
contemporary of Iksvaku. (M.B. Santi Parva, 3 tentment and happiness by the good deeds of your
Chapters from 197). son. So go and get married quickly."
JARA. A forester. It was this forester who shot an At first he did not like the talk about marriage. Still,
arrow at Sri Krsna and killed him mistaking him for in order to procure heaven for his ancestors he agreed
an animal. (See under Sri Krsna). to get married. But he made a condition that the name
JARA. A harpy (RaksasI) . she was a harpy
Though of the bride also should be Jaratkaru and she should
she loved human beings. It is believed that if the be given to him as alms. Saying these words, he
picture of Jara and her children is placed in the walked away along the forest.
house and venerated, there will be no haunting of any News reached the ears of Vasuki, the King of the
other 'kinds of demons. Nagas (serpents) that the hermit Jaratkaru was
The figure of Jara was sculptured on the wall of the wandering through the forests calling out that somebody
Palace of Brhadratha, the King of Magadha, and was should give him as alms a damsel named Jaratkaru.
being worshipped. Because the King worshipped her, Vasuki had a sister. Jaratkaru was her name. Vasuki
she had been looking forward to an opportunity to decided to give her to the hermit Jaratkaru. She was
reward the King. Brhadratha had married two adorned with costly garments and ornaments and was
daughters of the King of Kasi. They were twin sisters. taken to thehermitjaratka.ru. Jaratkaru said :
For a long time they remained childless. The King "Hear my condition, I will not cherish her if she
was very sorry, and went to the forest with his wives. causes displeasure to me. If she does so I will send
He saw the hermit Kakslvan or Candakausika, the son her away instantly."
of Gautama and requested that a son should be born On condition that if she did anything displeasing to
to him. The hermit was sitting in meditation under a him he would leave her at once, the hermit Jaratkaru
mango tree and a mango fell on his lap. The hermit married Jaratkaru the sister of Vasuki. (Devi
took it and by prayer and meditation he invoked Bhagavata, Skandha 2; Mahabharata, Adi Parva,
divine power into it and gave it to the King. The King Chapters 13 and 47).
divided it into two and gave it to his wives. The queens 4) Leaves his wife. Jaratkaru lived in the hermitage
became pregnant and the three returned joyously. with her husband looking after him with love and
In due course both delivered. But each of them gave loyalty. One day the hermit was sleeping with his head
birth to only half of a child. The horrified queens took on the lap of his wife. Though it was sunset the hermit
the uncouth figures outside the palace and left them slept on. It was time for the evening worship
there. Jara was watching this. She ran to the spot of the hermit. If he is aroused he will get angry. The
and placed the two portions together. Instantly it wife was in a difficult situation. Anyhow she aroused
became a child of proper form. Hearing the cry of the her husband. The hermit got up full of anger and
child the mothers. came out. Jara appeared there and shouted, "You have hindered my sleep, you wicked
placed the child before the King Brhadratha. As desired woman and teased me. So from today you are not my
by Jara the child was named Jarasandha because he wife. I am going away."
was joined together by Jara. This child grew up and She begged him for pardon with tears. But without
became the notorious King Jarasandha of Magadha. paying any heed to the entreaties of his pregnant wife,
(M.B. Sabha Parva, 3 Chapters from 1 7) . he left her.
It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Drona Parva, The helpless Jaratkaru gave birth to a son named
Chapter
182, Stanza 12 that when Arjuna fought with Jara- Astlka who later stopped the famous sacrifice, Sarpa
sandha this harpy had been staying in the weapon of Satra meant for killing the serpents. (M.B. Adi Parva,
Jarasandha and was killed in that fight. Chapter 47) See under Jaratkaru II.
.
JARATKARU I. A
hermit who is Puranically famous. JARATKARU II.
1 ) Birth. This hermit was born in a Brahmana dy- 1) It occurs in Devi Bhagavata,
General information.
nasty known as Yayavaras. He was the only son of Skandha about Jaratkaru, the sister of Vasuki and
9,
Yayavaras. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 13). the wife of hermit Jaratkaru as follows. This devl
2) The name Jaratkaru. The meaning of the name (goddess) is the daughter of Prajapati Kagyapa, born
Jaratkaru is given in Bhasabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter from his mind. So she got the name ManasadevI
40, as follows :
(goddess born from mind) Some think that she got
.
had been meditating upon Sri Krsna Paramatma for angry and decided to reject her. She thought of the
three yugas (world- ages) . She is known by twelve Devas, who instantly arrived. Brahma argued that it
names. was not meet and right to reject his wife before a
(1) Jaratkdru. Manasadevi had been performing child was born to her. The hermit touched the groin of
penance, and meditating upon Sri Krsna Paramatman his wife and prayed and with the power of yoga (medi-
for three complete yugas and her garments and body tation, contemplation etc.) she became pregnant. The
were worn out. So Krsna gave her the name Jaratkaru. son born to her is the famous hermit Astlka.
(2) Jagadgauri. Because she was comely and beautiful After giving birth to Astlka she went to Kailiisa, where
and of fair complexion and was worshipped all over Paramesvara and ParvatI received her.
the world, she got the name Jagadgauri. 5) The mantra (incantation) of worship. To get the
(3) Manasd. Because she was born from the mind of attainment of Manasadevi one has to utter the spell
Kasyapa, the name "Manasa" was given to her. (mantra) "Orh Hrlrh-Srim-Klirii-Airh-Manasadevyai
(4) Siddhayogini. As the fruits of her Tapas (penance) , svaha" five lakh times. He who has got the attainment
she got the attainments of Yoga (meditation, devotion, of this mantra as given above will be equal to Dhan-
contemplation and other ways of union with the vantari (the physician of the Gods) and to him poison
Universal Soul) and so she was given the name Siddha- will be Amrta (ambrosia) This goddess could be
.
Mahavisnu she was called Vaisnavl. worship are carried on, he would be blessed with
(6) Nagabhagini. Because she was the sister of Vasuki children, wealth and fame.
the King of the Nagas, she got the name Nagabhagini. JARASANDHA I. A terrible King of Magadha.
(Sister of Naga). 1
)
Descended from Visnu in the following
Genealogy.
(7) Saivi. As she was a disciple of Siva she got the order Brahma - Atri-Candra-Budha-Pururavas-Ayus-
:
destroyed poison, she was known by the name Visaharl. 3) The fast battle with Sri Kr$na. Asti and Prapti, the
(12) Mahajnanavati. Since she had the attainments of two wives of Kamsa, were daughters of Jarasandha.
vast knowledge, yoga and the power of bringing the When Sri Krsna killed Kamsa, the two daughters
dead to life, she was given the name Mahajnanavati. went to their father and shed tears before him. Jara-
2) Birth. Once the serpents became a plague to the sandha became angry and with a mighty army sur-
men of the earth and they all went to Prajapati rounded the city of Mathura. A fierce battle was
Kasyapa and made their complaints. Kasyapa and fought between Jarasandha and Krsna. At last Bala-
Brahma consulted each other and at the instruction of bhadrarama caught hold of Jarasandha and was
Brahma Kasyapa created several Mantras (spells and about to kill him, when an ethereal voice said that
incantations) and Manasadevi from his mind as the Balabhadrarama was not the person to kill Jarasandha.
deity of these spells. Accordingly Rama and Krsna set Jarasandha free.
3) Power of her tapas (penance). When she was very (Bhagivata, Skandha 10).
young she went to Kailasa and performed penance to 4) Other information.
Paramasiva fora thousand years. At last Siva appeared (1) It is mentioned in Bhagavata, Skandha 10, that
before her and gave her the divine knowledge, and
Jarasandha was the teacher too, of Kamsa.
taught her the Samaveda. He gave her the divine Sri (2) Jarasandha had four sons, Soma, Sahadeva, Turya
Krsna mantra (a spell) called 'Astaksari' and the and Srutasru of whom Sahadeva became King of
Sri Krsna Kavaca armour of Krsna) called
(the Magadha, after the death of Jarasandha.
and her how to use them in
Trailokyamangala' taught (3) Mention is made in Maha.bha.rata, Adi Parva,
worship. Wearing this armour and using the spell she Chapter 185, that Jarasandha had been present at the
performed penance in Puskara, meditating upon Sri Svayarhvara (marriage) of Pancall.
Krsna Paramatma, for three yugas (world ages) At .
(1) Once there arose a battle between Jarasandha
the end of this period Sri Krsna Paramatma appeared and Kama, in which Jarasandha was defeated and so
before her and gave her all the boons she wanted. Sri he made a treaty with Kama. (M.B. Santi Parva,
Krsna said that all over the world she would be worshipp- Chapter 5, Stanza 6) .
ed and that she had power to give boons to her 5) The death of Jarasandha. The enmity between Sri
worshippers. Krsna and Jarasandha was life-long. These two mighty
4) Marriage and rejection. Kasyapa gave his daughter powers confronted each other eighteen times. Sri Krsna
Manasadevi in marriage to Jaratkaru, a hermit. As they decided to kill Jarasandha, the King of Magadha,
were living in the hermitage, once the hermit slept in a duel. Once Sri Krsna with Arjuna and Bhima,
with his head on the lap of his wife. Seeing the setting reached the city of Magadha in the guise ofBrah-
sun she aroused her husband. The hermit became manas. They started from the kingdom of Kuru
JARASANDHA II 350 JATAKARMADISAMSKARA (S)
travelled through Kurujarigala and passed by JATAKARMADISAMSKARA (S) In the ancient days
.
Padmasaras and Kalakuta, visited the holy places of the people of Bharata observed certain social and
Gandaki, Mahas'ona, Sadanira and such others, crossed customary rites immediately after the birth of a child.
the river Sarayu and reached the opposite bank. Then They were known as Jatakarmans. Each caste had its
they travelled through the countries of East Kosala own Jatakarmans. They are given below :
and Mithila. Touring through the countries they If it is a male child jatakarman should be done before
crossed the rivers Carmanvati, Gaiiga. and Sona. Wear- cutting the umbilical cord. At that time gold is tci be
ing matted hair and barks of trees they reached Giri- rubbed in ghee and honey and the tongue of the child
vraja, the capital city of Magadha. There were three should be touched with it, uttering mantras (spells)
big drums, which were used only on special occasions. (Colloquial name of this rite is giving gold and honey) .
The hide of elephant was used for making them. 1 Seeing The child should be named on the tenth or twelfth day
all these sights they reached the presence of Jarasandha, after birth, selecting suitable lunar day, good star and
who welcomed them with necessary formalities and auspicious moment. The name should imply prosperity
talked with them. But they kept silence. At last Sri to Brahmans, might to Ksatriyas, wealth to Vaisyas
Krsna told him that his two friends were having the and humility to Sudras. That is, the word 'Sarman'
vow of silence, which would terminate only at mid- in the case of Brahmana, 'Varman' for Ksatriyas,
night. So the King left them in the sacrificial hall and 'Gupta' for Vaigyas and 'Dasa' for Sudras, should be
went to ths palace. He came to them at midnight and added to the name. The names given to girls should
asked them who they were. Sri Krsha revealed to him be of easy utterance, having clear meaning but not
that were Krsna, Bhima and Arjuna, who had
they cruel, very beautiful, charming, and propitious
come to fight a duel with Jarasandha, who had unrea- avoiding long letters as far as possible. Four months
sonably put many innocent Kings in dungeon, and after delivery, the child should be taken out of the
challenged him to select any one of them for duel. Jara- room of confinement to see the Sun. On the sixth
sandha, trembling with fury, selected Bhima. In that month the rite of 'Annaprasa' (feeding with rice)
duel Jarasandha was killed. (M.B. Sabha Parva, should be performed. In accordance with hereditary
3 Chapters from 20) . customs the two rites mentioned above may be per-
6) Names given to Jarasandha. Barhadratha, Magadha, formed at any time after the third month. For
Magadhadhipa and Jaraputra are some of the names Brahmanas and Ksatriyas the ceremony of 'Caula'
used in the Mahabharata by Vyasa as synonyms of (tonsure) may be performed at the time of birth or at
Jarasandha. the age of three. The ceremony of Upanayana (Investi-
JARASANDHA II. (Satrusaha) One of the hundred
. ture with the Brahma string) should be conducted at
sons of Dhrtarastra. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, the age of eight from pregnancy for Brahmanas, at the
Drona Parva, Chapter 137, Stanza 30 that this Jara- age of eleven from pregnancy for Ksatriyas and at the
sandha was by Bhimasena.
killed age of twelve for Vaisyas. But Upanayana could be
JARASANDHA In Kama Parva of the Maha-
III. performed at the age of five for Brahmanas who desire
bharata, Chapter 5, Stanza 30, we see a King Jayatsena Brahma-radiance, at the age of six for Ksatriyas who
who fought on the side of the Kauravas and had been desire might and at the age of eight for Vaisyas who
killed by Abhimanyu. The father of this King Jayatsena desire wealth. There is another opinion that Upana-
was one Jarasandha, a Ksatriya of Magadha. yana could be performed up to the age of sixteen for
JARASANDHAVADHAPARVA. A sub-section of Sabha Brahmanas and twentytwo for Even after
Ksatriyas.
Parva, of the Mahabharata. This sub-section comprises the attainment of this age, ceremony is not
if this
of Chapters 20 to 24 of Sabha Parva. performed, that boy will be considered an out-cast from
JARAYU. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B. Salya the mantra (spell) of Gayatrl, and will have no
Parva, Chapter 43, Stanza 19). admittance to the rituals and ceremonies performed by
JARITA. A mother bird with four young ones, who suffer- Brahmanas and will be known by the name Vratya
ed much in the burning of the forest Khandava. (For (an outcast, uninvested Brahmana) These Vratyas
.
detailed story see under Khandavadaha, Para 8) . could not be taught Vedas or be given women as
JARITARI. A son of the mother bird Jarita. (See under wives.
Khandavadaha, Para 8) .
Brahmana, Ksatriya and Vaisya brahmacaris (celibates)
JARJARANANA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B. could use the hides of black antelope, spotted deer or
Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 19). goat as upper garment and clothes made of silk thread,
JARTIKA. A tribe of Vahikas. They are considered to flax or wool of sheep or red leopard. To tie round the
be the lowest of the tribes. (M.B. Kama Parva, Chapter waist, Brahmanas have to make belts out of Munja
44, Stanza 10). (grass), Ksatriyas, out of Murva (grass) and Vaisyas
JARUDHI. A country in ancient India. (M.B. Sabha out of flax. When these are not available, Brahmanas
Parva, Chapter 38). may use Kusa grass, Ksatriyas nanal grass and Vaisyas
jAROTHl. An ancient city. It is mentioned .in Maha- Darbha grass called balbaja to make belts of customary
bharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 12, Stanza 30, that Sri three darns or five darns with a knot. A celibate should
Krsna, with his friends Ahuti and Kratha defeated have a stick. For Brahmanas the stick should be made
Sis upala, Jarasandha, Saibya and Satadhanvan in this of Bilva (Aegle marmelos) or "palasa" (butea frondosa)
city. and for Ksatriyas, of banyan or blackwood. (Mimosa
JATADHARA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B. catechu) and for Vaisyas, of Dillenia speciosa (Uka
Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 61) .
tree) or fig tree. For Brahmanas the stick should
See under Brhadratha IV to know about the sound of this big drum.
JATALIKA 351 JATISMARAKITA
reach up to the top of the head, for Ksatriyas up to the But, according to Kamba Ramayana, the name of the
forehead and for Vais yas up to the nose. Before going mother of Sampati and Jatayu was Mahasveta.
for alms, the celibate should take his stick, bow before (Kiskindha Kanda). Perhaps, Syeni was also known
the sun, go round the fire and only then set out. The as Mahasveta.
alms received should be offered to the teacher as
,
3) Jatayu flies towards Surya. Sampati and Jatayu,
oblation, then he should turn to the east and wash hands once under a bet flew up towards the sun. Jatayu
and mouth and eat it. Brahmanas should wear outflew Sampati, and in the exuberance of youth
the upper garment or their sacred thread (Yajna- entered Surya's orbit at noon time with the result that,
sutra) on the left shoulder and under the right arm and due to the excessive heat his wings were scorched. At
then it is called 'Upavlta'; if it is on the right shoulder thisSampati, to save his brother, flew up higher than
and under the left arm it is called "Pracinavita" and Jatayu and spread out his wings like an umbrella over
if it is round the neck it is called "Nivita". Jatayu with the result that Sampati's wings were burnt,
These Jatakarmans may be done for the female child and he fell down somewhere on the Vindhya mountains.
also at the stipulated times by tantras, without reciting He spent the rest of his life under the protection of a
mantras, for the purification of the body. The rituals sage called Nisakara who was performing penance on
performed without reciting Vedamantras (spells) are the mountains. After their tragic meeting in Surya-
called tantras. For women marriage is to be considered mandala Sampati and Jatayu never again met in their
as Upanayana, looking after the needs of husband to be life. (Valmiki Ramayana, Kiskindha Kanda, Chapter
considered as learning at the house of the teacher, and 58; Kamba Ramayana, Kiskindha Kanda) .
housekeeping as samidadhana (gathering fuel of Butea 4) Fought with Ravana. Jatayu clashed with Ravana,
frondosa) .
(Manusmrti, Chapter 2) . who was carrying away Sltadevi in his vimaria, and in
JATALIKA. A
female attendant of Skanda. (Salya the fierce fight that they fought in (he air, Ravana cut
Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 23) . off Jatayu's wings and thus felled him on the earth,
JATAPATHA. See under Ghanapatha. almost dead. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda,
jATARUPASlLA. A mountain. This mountain stands Chapter 51 ).
in a place having an area of thirteen yojanas, on the 5) Death. Rama and Laksmana during their search
opposite shore of the sea where the water-creatures fall in the forest for Slta came upon Jatayu lying without
with tremendous cry at the mouth of the submarine fire wings almost dead and reciting Rama's name. Jatayu
(Badavagni) The monkeys sent by Sugrlva to search
. described to Rama how Ravana had carried away Slta
for Slta, made a search in this mountain also. (Valmiki and how he had tried to stop him and fought with him.
Ramayana, Kiskindha Kanda, Sarga 40, Stanza 50) . After giving this account he died. Rama and Laksmana
JATASURA I. A King, who was a member of Dharma- lit a fire and cremated Jatayu. The great bird's soul
putra's assembly. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 24). attained salvation. (Kamba Ramayana) .
JATASURA II. A Raksasa, Jatasura, disguised as a JATl. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (Salya Parva,
brahmin lived with the Pandavas in the forest. His aim Chapter 45, Verse 61).
was to carry off Pancali and the arrows of the Pandavas JATI. See under Caturvarnya.
as and when he got an opportunity for it. One day JATILA. The name assumed by Siva when he played
taking advantage of Arjuna's absence Bhlma was the part of a Brahmacarin. Parvati began rigorous
out ahunting) Jatasura caught hold of the others as penance to obtain Siva as her husband, and Siva
also the arrows and ran away with them. Sahadeva visited her disguised as Jatila, a brahmacarin to test
alone managed to slip away from his clutches. Dharma- her. (Siva Purana, Satarudrasarhhita) .
putra pledged his word that Jatasura would be killed JATILA. A righteous and generous woman who was
before the sunset. Hearing all the hubbub (Bhima born in the Gautama dynasty. She once sought the
hurried to the scene, killed the Asura and saved his help of the saptarsis. (Adi Parva, Chapter 195; also
brothers and Pancali from difficulties and danger. See under GautamJ II) .
Ksatriya King. As he was leading the life of a powerful JAYA X. A synonym of Mahavisnu. (M.B. Anusasana
King he met with Vyasa. He rcci-ived advice from the Parva, Chapter 149, Stanza 6Tf.
hermit. In his next life he became a Brahmana and JAYA XI. (JAYAVIJAYAS). They were gate-keepers of
finally he attained bliss. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, 3 Vaikunlha. As these two sons ofdevas were engaged
Chapters from 117) . in the service of Mahavisnu guarding the gate, the
JATHARA I. A very erudite brahmin scholar in Vedic hermits Sanaka and others came to see Mahavisnu to
lore. Jathara was a prominent figure at the serpent pay him homage. Jaya and Vijaya stopped them at the
yajna held by Janamejaya. (Adi Parva, Chapter 53, gate. Sanaka got angry and cursed them to take three
Verse 8). births on the earth as Asuras (demons). The sorrow-
JATHARA II. A mountain within the ranges "of Maha- ful Jaya and Vijaya requested for absolution from the
meru. On the eastern side of Mahameru there exist two curse. The hermit said that they had to take three
mountains called Jathara and Devakuta, 18, 000 births as Asuras and that they would be redeemed by the
yojanas in extent and 2000 yojanas high. On the weapon of Mahavisnu. Accordingly Jaya and Vijaya
western side of Meru are the mountains called Pava- were born in the earth as Hiranyaksa and Hiranyaka-
mana and Pariyatra, on the southern side Kailasa and iipu. They were killed by Mahavisnu. n the second
Karavlra, and on the northern side Trisrriga and birth they were Ravana and Kumbhakarna. Maha-
Makaragiri. (Devi Bhagavata, 8th Skandha). visnu incarnated as Sri Rama killed them. In the third
JATHARA III. An urban region in ancient India. birth they were Sisupala and Dantavaktra. They were
JATHARA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B. Salya killed Krsna, an incarnation of Bhagavan Visnu.
by Sri
Parva. Chapter 46, Stanza 128). For further under Hiranyaksa. Hiranyaka-
details see
JATUGRHAM. See under Arakkillam (lac palace). sipu, Ravana -Kurhbhakarna, Sisupala and Dantavak-
;
JATUGRHAPARVA. A particular section of Adi Parva. tra. After three births Jaya and Vijaya returned to
JATUK\RNA. An ancient hermit with control over his Vaikuntha. (Bhagavata, Skandha 7).
senses. He was a member of the council of Yudhisthira. JAYA XII. Father of the Raksasa (giant) Viradha, who
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 14). was killed by Sri Rama at the forest Dandaka. Vira-
JAVA. A warrior of Subrahmanya. ( M.B. Salya Parva, dha was born to the giant Jaya by his wife Satahrada.
Chapter 45, Stanza 75) .
JAYA I. A son of Dhrtarastra. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chap- JAYA XIII. The original name of the Mahabharata writ-
ter 63, Stanza 119). He fought with Arjuna at the time ten by Vyasa. Many of the scholars are of opinion that
of the stealing of cows. (M.B. Virata Parva, Chapter Vyasa was not the author of the whole of the Maha-
54) This Jaya fought with Nila and Bhlma in the
. bharata that we see in its present form now. They say
battle of Bharata. Bhlma killed him. (Drona Parva, that the Bharata written by Vyasa consisted only of
Chapters 25 and 135). eight thousand and eight hundred stanzas. That work was
JAYA II. A deva (god). At the time of the burning of named Jaya. To those eight thousand and eight hund-
the forest Khandava, this deva came with an iron pestle red stanzas Vaisampayana added fifteen thousand, two
to fight with Kfsna and Arjuna. (M.B. Adi Parva, hundred stanzas and this great book was given the
Chapter 226 Stanza 34). name Bharata or Bharata sarhhita (Bharata collection).
JAYA III. A King in ancient India. He sits in the Dur- When Suta recited this book to other hermits in Naimi-
bar of Yama (God of death) and worships him. (Sabha saranya the book had a lakh of stanzas. Henceforward
Parva, Chapter 3, Stanza 15). the book was called Mahabharata, (History of classical
JAYA IV. A synonym of the Sun. (M.B. Parva, Chap- Sanskrit Literature; Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter
ter 3, Stanza 24). 62, Stanza 20) .
JAYA V. The pseudo name taken by Yudhisthira at the JAYA. I. A daughter of the hermit Gautama. Gautama
time of the pseudonymity of the Pandavas in the coun- had two daughters by his wife Ahalya named Joyanti
try of Virata. Bhlma was known as jayanta, Arjuna by and Aparajita besides Jaya. While Daksa was perform-
the name Vijaya, Nakula by the name Jayatsena and Parvatl of
ing a yaga, (sacrifice) this Jaya informed
Sahadeva by the name Jayadbala at that time. (Virata it. Parvatl fell down when she heard that Daksa had
Parva, Chapter 5, Stanza 35). At that time Pancall not invited Siva to the sacrifice. Siva got angry at
addressed all her five husbands by the name Jaya Daksa's negligence and from his wrath the Bhutaganas
(M.B. Virata Parva, Chapter 23, Stanza 12). such' as Virabhadra and others (attendants of Siva)
JAYA VI. A naga (serpent) born in the family of Kas- arose. ( Vamana Purana, Chapter 4) .
yapa. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103, Stanza 16). JAYA. II. Wife of Puspadanta, a gana (attendant of
JAYA VII. A warrior who fought on the side of the Siva) See under Puspadan'a.
.
Kauravas. It is mentioned in the Mahabharata, Drona JAYA. III. Another name of Parvatl. (M.B. Virata
Parva, Chapter 156, that both Sakuni and this warrior Parva, Chapter 6, Stanza. 16).
fought with Arjuna. JAYA IV. A daughter of Daksa. Two daughters named
JAYA VIII. A warrior of the country of Pancala. Men- Jaya and Suprabha were born to Daksa. To Suprabha
tion is made in Mahibhfirata, Kama Parva, Chapter and Jaya fifty sons each were born. These hundred sons
JAYAV 353 JAYADRATHA I
wore various kinds of arrows and such other weapons. a very young age and went to Samantapancaka to per-
(Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Sarga 21). form penance. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 146).
JAVA V. A maid of Parvatl. It is seen in Skanda Purana 3) Marriage. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Adi
that this Jaya was the daughter of Prajapati Krsasva. Parva, Chapter 116, Stanza 17, that Jayadratha married
JAVA. Wife. The husband enters the wife in the form of the princess Du^sala.
semen and takes birth as the foetus and then is born 4) Jayadratha and Pancali. From the very beginning
from her as son and so the wife is called Jaya. Jayadratha was a bitter enemy of the Pandavas. It is
"Patirbharyarh sampravisya not difficult to find out the root of this enmity. It is
Garbho bhutveha jayate / stated in Adi Parva, Chapter 185, Stanza 21 that Jayad-
-
Jayayastaddhi jayatvarh' ratha was present at the svayarhvara of Pancall. The
Yadasyam jayate punah" // fact that he did not get Panca.li, might have laid the
(Manusmrti, Chapter 9, Stanza 8). foundation of this enmity.
JAYA (M)I. The name of an auspicious moment. This From this moment Jayadratha was
looking forward to a
has the name Vijayam also. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, chance to carry off Pancali.
Chapter 6, Stanza 1 7) . The forest life of the Pandavas began. They wandered
JAYA (M) II. The name given to the story of Vidula. through many forests and finally reached the forest,
See under Vidula. Kamyaka. Once the Pandavas left Pancali alone in the
JAYADBALA. The false name assumed by Sahadeva at hut and went the forest for hunting. Jayadratha
to
the time of the incognito life of the Pandavas in the city came to of this. He came with his men to the
know
of Virata. (M.B. Virata Parva, Chapter 5, Stanza 35). place where the hut stood. At the very first sight of
JAYADEVA I. A
Sanskrit poet who lived in the 13th cen- Pancali, he fell in love with her. He sent Kotikasya,
tury A.D. He is the author of the play 'Prasannaragha- the King of Trigarta, who was the son of Suratha as a
vam'. As far as the story of Sri Rama is concerned, messenger to Pancali. Kotikasya told Pancali about the
some .changes have been made in this play from that superior qualities of Jayadratha and requested her to
given by Bhavabhuti in his 'Mahavlracarita'. Accord- accept Jayadratha, leaving the Pandavas. But she
ing to this play Sri Rama and Banasura both were rejected his request. The messenger returned to Jayad-
lovers of Slta. The famous work 'Candraloka', a trea- ratha and told him what had happened. Jayadratha
tise on rhetorical figures, was written by this poet himself came in a chariot and tried to entice her.
Jaya-
deva. His most important work is 'Gltagovinda', the Pancali did not yield. Jayadratha caught her by force
theme of which is the early life of Sri Krsna, especially and took her away in his chariot. Dhaumya the priest
the love between Sri Krsna and Radha, which is very of the Pandavas followed them with tears. Shortly after-
touchingly described. This book consists of 12sargas wards, the Pandavas returned to the hut. They searched
and each sarga contains 24 octaves. This poet was a for Pancali here and there. They heard everything
devotee of Krsna. He used to sing lyrics before the from a maid, and instantly followed Jayadratha, whose
image of Krsna while his wife danced according to the army confronted the Pandavas. The heads of almost all
beat. the warriors of Jayadratha fell on the ground. Jayad-
JAYADEVA See under Duisasana II.
II. ratha fled from the battlefield. The Pandavas followed
him and caught him and scourged him. Bhlma shaved
JAYADHVAJA. The fifth of the hundred sons of Karta- his head letting only five hairs to stand on the head.
viryarjuna. It is stated in Brahmanda Purana, Chapter
46 that, of the hundred sons of Kartavlryarjuna, Sura, They took him as a prisoner before Dharmaputra.
Finally at the instruction of Yudhisthira and Pancali,
Surasena, Dhisana, Madhu and Jayadhvaja were the
he was released. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapters 264 to
mightiest warriors. This Jayadhvaja was the father of
272).
Talajangha.
5) Other details.
JAYADRATHA I. A mighty warrior King who ruled over
(
1
)
In the sacrifice of Rajasuya (imperial consecration)
the kingdom of Sindhu. performed by Yudhisthira, Jayadratha took part as a
Descended from Visnu in the following
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 34,
1
) Genealogy. tributary King.
order Brahma
: Atri Candra Budha Pururavas- Stanza 8) .
Ayus Nahusa Yayati Puru Janamejaya Pracin- ( Jayadratha was present at the game of dice between
2)
van Pravira Namasyu Vltabhaya Sundu Bahuvi-
Duryodhana and Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter
dha Sarhyati Rahovadi Raudrasva Matinara 58, Stanza 28).
Santurodha Dusyanta Bharata Suhotra Suhota
(3) It was while going to Salva to marry a damsel that
Gala Gardda Suketu Brhatksatra Hasti Ajaml-
Jayadratha attacked Pancali at the forest of Kamyaka.
dha Brhadisu Brhaddhanu Brhatkaya Jayadratha 1 M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 264) .
(
2) Birth and attainment of Boon. Jayadratha was born as (4) Feeling ashamed at the result of his attempt to
a result of severe fasts and vows taken by his father. carry off Pancali, Jayadratha went direct to Gaiiga-
There was an ethereal voice at the birth of Jayadratha, dvara and pleased Siva by penance. Siva gave him the
"This child would become a very famous King. boon that he would be able to defeat all the Pandavas
The head of him, who puts down the head of this child except Arjuna. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 272).
on the earth would break into a hundred pieces within a 6) Jayadratha in the battle of Bharata.
moment" His father was filled with joy when he heard In the battle of Bharata, which lasted for eighteen days
this ethereal voice, and so he made Jayadratha King at between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, Jayadratha
i. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Adi Parva. Chapter 67 that Jayadratha was the son of Brhatksatra. After Bharata, Brhat-
ksatra was the only famous and mighty emperor. Really speaking Jayadratha was the grandson of Brhatksatra. The statement that Jayad-
ratha was the son of Brhatksatra OD!V mcaps that he was a descendant of that king.
JAYADRATHA II 354 JAYANTA VI
took the side of the Kauravas and fought against the lived with Slta and Laksmana on the mountain Citra-
Pandavas. The part played by him in the battle is given kuta for some days. Once Sri Rama, being very tired
below: of walking in the forest fell asleep with his head in the
(1) On the first day there was a combat between Jayad- lap of Slta. Taking this chance Jayanta came in the
ratha and Drupada. (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, Chapter shape of a crow and scratched the breast of Slta with
45, Stanzas 55 to 57) . his claws. Slta cried and Sri Rama woke up and saw
(2) Attacked Bhimasena. (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, Chap- Jayanta in the shape of a crow. Rama got angry and
ter 79, Stanzas 1 7 to 20) . shot the Brahmastra (a divine arrow) against Jayanta.
(3) Fought with Arjuna and Bhimasena. (M.B. Bhlsma Fear of life made him fly throughout the whole of the
Parva, Chapters 113 and 11 5). three worlds. Even Brahma, Visnu and Mahesvara
(4) Engaged in a combat with the King Virata. (M.B. were unable to protect him, All the while the divine
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 116, Stanzas 42 to 44). arrow followed him. Finally having no go he came and
(5) Jayadratha and Abhimanyu fought with each fell at the feet of Sri Rama. Sri Rama said that the
other. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 14, Stanzas 64 Brahmastra could never become futile and so the arrow
to 74) . must hit his right eye. Accordingly the arrow struck at
(6) Fought with Ksatravarman. (M.B. Drona Parva, his right eye and thus Jayanta lost his right eye. In
Chapter 25, Stanzas 10 to 12). Adhyatma Ramayana this story is stated with some
(7) Arjuna vowed that he would kill Jayadratha, who slight changes. According to Adhyatma Ramayana,
tried to flee from the battle-field when he came to know this incident took place when had been drying raw
Sita
of this. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 74, Stanzas 4 flesh. (Valmiki Riimayana, Sundara Kanda, Sarga 38) .
JAYANTA VII. One of the ministers of Dasaratha. The JAYASARMAN. A Brahmana who became wealthy by
eight ministers of Da;>aratha were Jayanta, Dhrsti, taking the vow of Kamala ( Kamalavrata ) Kamala is .
for his morning oblations. She would gather soft come from Vaikuntha, because I am greatly pleased with
sprouts and make bed for him and would stand near you. Since you have taken the vow of Kamalavrata on
him fanning till he slept. She would get water ready the eleventh day of the dark lunar fortnight called
for him to rinse his mouth when he woke Kamala of the month of Purusottama I will grant you
up. Thus she
did the work of a dutiful disciple. She did not, in any boons. Because you have taken the vow at Triveni, I am
way by speech or action, try to entice him so that his immensely pleased with you. The noble Brahmanas of
vow of penance might be broken. She spoke only words your future generations also will be blessed by me".
which would be pleasing and helpful to him. This Saying these words the Devi gave him boons and dis-
continued for thousand years and then Parama^iva appeared. From that day onwards Jayas arma became a
appeared before him and gave the boons he requested great wealthy man and he returned to his father's house
for. After that Sukracarya talked with her. In accor- (Padma Purana, Chapter 64).
dance with her request the hermit Sukra allowed her to JAYASENA I. Father of the famous Candamahasena.
live with him for ten years as his wife. He (See under Candamahasena)
gave her a .
boon that during that period of ten years they both JAYASENA II. A prince of Magadha. He was a mem-
would be invisible to the world. Thus Sukracarya ber of the council of Yudhisthira. (M.B. Sabha Parva
married Jayanti and they lived in the house Chapter. 4, Stanza 26).
very happily
for ten years JAYASENA III. A King of Avanti. .To this King was
JAYANTI III. The queen
of the King Rsabha who was born a son named Vindanuvinda and a daughter
born in the dynasty of King Agnidhra. Hundred named Mitravinda by his chief wife Rajadhidevi. Mitra-
children were born to Rsabha of Jayanti (See under vinda was married by Sri Krsna.
Rsabha II). JAYASVA I. A son of King Drupada. It is mentioned in
JAYAPRIYA. A female attendant of Subrahmanya. Maha Bharata, Drona Parva, Chapter 156, Stanza 181
(M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 12). that Jayasva was killed by Asvatthama in the battle of
JAYARATA. A warrior who fought on the side of the Bharata.
Kauravas. Bhimasena killed this warrior, who was a JAYASVA II. A brother of the King of Virata. (M.B.
prince of Kalinga, in the battle of Bharata. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 158, Stanza 42).
Drona Parva, Chapter 155, Stanza 28). JAYATSENA I. A King of the kingdom of Magadha. It
JAYARATHA. A Sanskrit poet who lived in Kasmira in is stated in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 67 that
the 12th century. He was a Saivite. His who was
the son of Jarasandha, belonged to
important work this King,
is Haracaritacintamani'.
(History of classical Sanskrit the family of Kalakeya. This King was a friend of the
literature) . Pandavas. Mention is made in Mahabharata, Adi
JAYATSENA II 356 JlMOTAVAHANA
Parva, Chapter 185, Stanza 8, that Jayatsena was JlMOTA. II. A wrestler (Pahalvan) While the Panda-
.
present at the svayarhvara (marriage) of Draupadi. vas were living incognito in the city of Virata, once
Towards the end of the battle of Bharata, the Panda- Brahmotsava (Brahma festival) was celebrated all over
vas sent a letter of invitation to this King and accord- the country. Wrestling was an important item of the
ingly he came to the help of the Pandavas with an aksau- Brahma festival. Jimuta was the most famous of the
hini of army (21870 Chariots, 21870 elephants, 65610 wrestlers who took part in the festival. He struck several
horses and 109350 infantry). (M.B. Udyoga Parva, wrestlers down. At last King Virata asked Bhima to
Chapter 19, Stanza 8) . wrestle with Jimuta. Bhimasena accepted the invita-
JAYATSENA II. A King of the Puru dynasty. His tion. In the wrestling Jimuta was killed. (M.B. Virata
father was Sarvabhauma and his mother was die Parva, Chapter 16) .
princess Sunanda of Kekaya. Jayatsena married Sui'ra- JlMOTA III. A hermit. Mention is made in Mahabha-
vas, the princess of Vidarbha. A son named Arvacina rata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 111, Stanza 23 that this
was born to them. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 35) . hermit got a treasure of gold called Jaimuta from the
JAYATSENA III. The name assumed by Nakula in Himalayas.
his life incognito. (Virata Parva, Chapter 5, Stanza 35) .
JlMUTA IV. The horse of the King Vasumanas. See
JAYATSENA IV. A
King who took the side of the under Vasumanas.
Kauravas. He was son of Jarasandha. This King came JIMUTAKETU I. A synonym of Siva. There is a story
with an aksauhini of army and helped the Kauravas in the Puranas about how Siva got the namejimuta-
in the battle of Bharata. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter ketu.
16, Stanza 16). It is mentioned in Kama Parva, When summer season began Parvati told her husband
Chapter 5, Stanza 30 that this King was killed by Siva: "MyLord, Summer has set in. What are we to
1
Abhimanyu. do without a house to protect us from the hot sun and
JAYATSENA V. A son of Dhrtarastra. It is mentioned the strong wind?" Siva replied. ''Dear It is because
!
in Mahabharata, Bhisma Parva, Chapter 69, that this I have no house that I walk about in the forest
Jayatsena was defeated by Satanika and in Salya Parva, always."
Chapter 26 that he was killed by Bhimasena. Because Siva said so, the loyal wife SatidevI spent the
JAYATSENA. An attendant of Subrahmanya. (M.B. summer with her husband in the shade of trees. When
Salya Parva. Chapter 46, Stanza 12). the summer was over rainy season began. People stopp-
JAYAVIJAYAS. See under Jaya XI. ed walking about. The sky became black with clouds.
JHA. This syllable means 'famous'. (Agni Purana, The roaring sound of thunder was heard everywhere.
Chapter 348) .
Seeing that the rainy season had begun Parvati again
JHAJHA. The father of Sunda an Asura who was the requested her husband to erect a house. Hearing her
father of Marlca, whose mother was Tataka. (Valmiki request Siva replied. "I have no wealth at all to build
Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Sarga 25). a house. You see that I am wearing the hide of a leo-
JHILLI. A Yadava of the house of Vrsni. He was one pard. The serpent Sesa is my Brahma-string. Padma
of the seven chief ministers of Sri Krsna in Dvaraka. and Pingala are my car-rings. One of my bracelets for
(M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 14, Daksinatya patha). the upper arm is Kambala and the other one is the
JHILLl I. Jhillipinddraka ) . warrior of the Vrsnis. A naga (serpent) Dhananjaya. My bracelet on the right
It stated in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 185,
is hand is Asvatara and on the left hand is Taksaka. The
Stanza 20, that this warrior was present at the svayam- string that I wear round my waist is Nila, as black as
vara (marriage) of Draupadl. It is also seen that this antimony. So let us go above the clouds and spend the
Yadava dowry of Subhadra to Khandava-
carried the
rainy season there. Then rain will not fall on your
prastha from Dvaraka. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 120, body."
Stanza 32) . This warrior took part in the Bharata Saying thus, Siva got into a lofty cloud with Parvati
battle. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Drona Parva, and sat there. That cloud looked Jike the flag of Siva.
Chapter 11, Stanza 28 that this warrior played a laud- Thenceforward Siva came to be known by the name
able part in the battle of Kuruksetra.
Jimutaketu. (Vamana Purana, Chapter) .
JHILLI II. (Jhillipindarakam) (Jhillika). A worm. This JlMOTAKETU II. See under Jimutavahana.
worm has another name Jhuiku. (M.B. Vana Parva, J IMOTAVAHANA. A Vidyadhara. demi-god) He was(
.
tree Kalpaka, which yielded all the wishes, had return- Kadru, the mother of Nagas (serpents) made Vinata,
ed to heaven, they thought it the most propitious time the mother of Garuda, her slave by some trick. Garuda
and arrayed their army against Jlmutavahana. His liberated his mother from slavery. But the hatred
father Jlmutaketu had completed all preparations to increased day by day and Garuda began to eat serpents,
meet the enemy. But Jlmutavahana approached his the children of Kadru. Seeing this, Vasuki the King
father and said, "Father I am perfectly sure that no
! of Nagas entered into a contract with Garucja, so as to
body could defeat you in battle. But see how mean prevent the nagas from being destroyed altogether. The
it is to destroy so many lives and win the country mere- arrangement was that Vasuki would send a serpent
ly for the pleasures of this fragile body. So let us go everyday to Garuda. Garuda ate all those serpents
away from here. Leave the kingdom to them." sent by Vasuki in this place. These are the bones of
Jlmutaketu, who was pleased at this generous nature those poor snakes."
of his son, respected his wish and went with his family When Jlmutavahana heard this story his heart was
to the Malaya mountain and lived there. Mitravasu, with pity. He decided to save the life of at least
filled
the son of Visvavasu, the King of the Siddhas and one serpent by giving his body instead. But the
Jlmutavahana became close friends. One day Jlmuta- presence of Mitravasu was an obstacle to carry out
vahana was wandering about in the forest when he saw his wish. At that particular moment a minister of
in the middle of a garden a temple dedicated to Devi Visvavasu appeared there and took away Mitravasu
and a young woman of exquisite beauty, surrounded by saying that he was wanted by his father. Left alone,
her maids, singing hymns and worshipping Devi. Jlmu- Jlmutavahana stood there when he saw a young man
tavahana was attracted by her extra-ordinary beauty. coming with an old woman who was crying bitterly.
Love budded in her heart also. On enquiry it was On enquiry Jtmutavahana learned that in accordance
understood that she was Malayavati, the sister of Mit- with the agreement with Garuda, the old woman was
ravasu. After that both of them engaged in a little talk bringing her only son Sankhacuda to give him as food
of love-making. Hearing her mother calling, Malaya- toGaruda. Jlmutavahana told them that he would
vati instantly went home. Being fallen head-long in take the place of Sankhacuda that day. The mother
love, Jlmutavahana spent the night somehow or other and the son reluctantly agreed to his desire. The old
and at dawn reached the temple with a hermit boy. woman went away crying and Sankhacuda went to the
While the hermit boy was consoling Jlmutavahana temple.
Malayavati also came there. Jlmutavahana and his Hearing the sound of Garuda 's wings Jlmutavahana
friend hid behind a tree. She was alone, and since she laid himself on a stone and Garuda taking him in his
could not bear separation from her lover she decided beaks flew to the top of the Malaya Mountain. On the
to commit suicide and standing at the steps, she said way the jewel of Jlmutavahana known as 'Cudaratna',
"Devi If it is impossible to get that Jlmutavahana as
! which was soaked in blood fell down, in front of
my husband in this birth, let it be so. But bless me that Malayavati. Knowing that it was the jewel of her
I may have my wish granted in the next birth at least". husband, with a terrible cry she ran to her father.
Saying this she tied one end of her upper garment on Because of his knowledge of arts and sciences,
the tree and tried to commit suicide. Instantly there Jlmutaketu also knew everything and with his wife and
was an ethereal voice which said, "Daughter, don't do daughter he went to the top of the Malaya mountain.
such rash things. Jlmutavahana will become your hus- In the meanwhile, Sankhacuda, having done obeisance
band. He will become the emperor of the Vidyadharas to 'Gokarnanatha' (God), came back to the stone
also." Jlmutavahana came and untied the knot of the where he had left Jlmutavahana and seeing a pool of
upper garment with his own hands and saved her from fresh blood, became sad and silent. Then determining
death. Her maid appeared and said with delight. that he would save Jlmutavahana at any cost, he
"Friend you are very lucky. Today I heard what prince
! went up the mountain following the track of the blood
Mitravasu said to his father Vi'-'vavasu. Thus he said drops.
'Father Jlmutavahana who gave away his own Kal-
! Garuda took Jlmutavahana to the peak of the mountain
paka tree for the welfare of others has come to this place. and began to peck at him. Jlmutavahana grew more
It will bring prosperity to us, if we show our hospitality and more delightful as the pecking became harder.
to this noble guest by giving our Malayavati to him. It Garuda looked at him with wonder and thought,
is very difficult to get such a noble man for my sister "Surely, this is not a naga. It must be a Gandharva or
anywhere else." The father consented. The prince ins- somebody else." Not knowing what to do he sat looking
tantly went to the abode of this gentleman. I think the at his prey, who invited him to finish off his meal. By
marriage will take place today. So come, let us go this time Sankhacuda had reached the spot. Soon
home." Jlmutaketu with his wife and Malayavati also arrived.
jlR^ODDHARA 358 JIVATMAN
They all cried aloud. Garuda was in great confusion. of the wife of a Vasu named Dyau. It was because of
When he knew that he was about to eat the famous the words of this JitavatI that the Astavasus (the eight
Jimutavahana, who had given away even the Kalpaka Vasus) stole the cow Nandini of Vasistha, and by the
tree for the good of others, Garuda was filled with curse of Vasistha had to take birth in the womb of
remorse. Instantly Jimutavahana died. The parents women on earth. (See under Ganga, Para 7).
and Sankhacuda cried beating their breasts. Malayavati JISI^IU I. A name of Arjuna. (See under Arjuna).
fell on the ground and cried. Then looking up she JISIVU II. A synonym of Sri Krsna. As Sri Krsna had
called out with tears. "Ha Devi Jagadambika
! !
you ! won the battles he fought, he got the name Jisnu.
all
have told me that my husband would become the (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 70, Stanza 13) .
emperor of the Vidyadharas. Has your boon become JISIVU III. A warrior who fought on the side of the
futile because of my misfortune ?" Devi appeared and Pandavas against the Kauravas. This warrior who was
said "Daughter My words will not become futile."
! a native of Cedi, was killed by Kama (M.B. Karna
Then Devi sprinkled Amrta (ambrosia) on Jimuta- Parva, Chapter 56, Stanza 48J.
vahana and brought him to life. He sprang up more JIS1VUKARMAN. A warrior who stood on the side
radiant than before, and was anointed as emperor of the Pandavas and fought against the Kauravas. He
of the Vidyadharas by Devi. When Devi disappeared was a native of the country of Cedi. (M.B. Karna
Garuda who was much pleased, told Jimutavahana Parva, Chapter 56, Stanza 48) .
fixed in temples which have fallen into dilapidation, is "Tasmad va etasmadatmana akasah sambhutah,
called Jlrnoddhara. Mention is made in Agni Purana, akasad vayuh vayoragnih, agnerapah adbhyah prthvi
Chapter 67, about the principles of Jlrnoddhara, as prthivya osadhayah osadhibhyo annam annat purusah
follows : sa'va esa puruso annamayah."
The priest should adorn the image with ornaments and 'From this Atman came into existence ether possessing the
perform 'Stavana'. If the idol is very badly ruined by quality of sound. From ether air, possessing the qualities
age it must be abandoned. Broken image and that of sound and touch, came into existence. Fire with the
with any part of the body severed or disfigured should qualities of sound, touch and colour
came into being
also be abandoned, even if it is made of stone or any from air. From fire, water having the qualities of sound
other material. When the image is renovated the touch, colour and taste came into being. From water earth
priest should make burnt offerings thousand times with with the qualities of sound, touch, colour, taste and smell
Narasimhamantra (spell or incantation) If the ruined
. came into existence. Vegetation grew from earth, and
image is made of wood it should be burned. If it is from vegetation food, from food semen, and from semen
made of stone it should be placed at the bottom of Purusa came into existence. The materialized form of
deep water, either in the sea or anywhere else. If it is aparabrahman is the body. Its subtle form is the soul.
made of metals or jewels, it must be put into water. Jlvatma or the individual soul is the subtle form of soul
The ruined image should be placed in a carriage and dwelling in the materialized form of the aparabrahman.
covered with a cloth. With instrumental music and This soul sits in the miniature lotus of heart in the
so forth the image should be taken to water in a pro- miniature e ther. The body which is made of the five
cession and then submerged in water. After this the elements is the dwelling place of this Jlvatma. The
priest must be given a gift. Only after this should the individual life exists in every living being. The body
new image be erected and consecrated. On a good day originated from food is the outer covering of the Jlvat-
in an auspicious moment a new image of the same ma. This materialized body is also called Annamaya-
material and measurement as of the old image should kosa (the cask of food). Inside this annamayakosa there
be erected and consecrated by the priest. is the Pranamayakosa (the chest of the life breaths) It is .
JITARI. Son of Avlksit born of the family of Puru. stated in the Taittiriyopanisad that this Pranamayakosa
Avlksit was the son of King Kuru. Mention is made is separate from and existing inside the annamayakosa.
about Jitari in Mahabharata, Adi Parva Chapter 94, The Pranamayakosa which exists inside the annama-
Stanza 53. yakosa has the shape of man. The life breath which
JITATMA. A Visvadeva (A class of gods) concerned appears as the inhaling and exhaling breath is the head
with Sraddha (offerings to the Manes). (M.B. Anusasana of the Pranamayakosa. The life breath Vyana is the
Parva, Chapter 91, Stanza 31) .
ri^ht wing and Apana is the left wing, ether its soul and
JITAVATl. A daughter of King Usinara. She was the Prthvi (the earth) its tail. 2 Inside the Pranamayakosa,
most beautiful woman in the world. She was the friend there exists the Manomayakosa (the chest of mind) ,
i This story is told to the king Trivikramasena by Vetala. See under Trivikramasena.
3 Tasya prana eva sirah vyano daksinah paksah apinah uttarah paksahi akasa atma, Prthivi puccham. (Taittiriya ) .
JNANAPAVANAT IRTHA 359 JVARA
but it fills the entire interior of the Pranamayakosa. by the touch of Ganges-water." The amazed Ganga
The Vijnanamayakos'a(the chest of knowledge or under- took the form of Sumangaladevi and stood before Jvala
standing) exists inside the Manomayakosa. The Jivatma and aked her the reason for saying so. Jvala said "Gan-
or the individual life dwells inside this gadevi submerged her seven sons and killed them. After
Vijfianamaya-
kosa and pervades the entire body. It is by the activity that she took the eighth son from Santanu. That son
of Vijnanamayakoia that the Jivatma feels its indivi- too was killed by Arjuna in the Bharata-battle. Thus
duality. Inside the Vijnanamayakoi'.a there exists a fifth Ganga
is childless and sinful." Hearing this Ganga
kosa (chest) called the Anandamayakosa, which is the Devi cursed Arjuna "Let his head be cut off in six
immediate covering of Jivatma, and which has no sense months' time." Jvala was satisfied. (For the result of
of individuality. The three Koaas, Anandakosa, Vijnana- the curse see under Arjuna, Para 28) .
kosa and Pranamayakosa together is called Suksmasaiira JVALAJIHVA I. One of the two attendants given to
(the subtle body). It must be remembered that Suks- Subrahmanya by Agnideva. (Fire god) Jyoti was the .
masarlra is different from Susuksmasarlra (the minute other attendant. (MB. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza
subtle body) .
33).
Heart is the abode of the Jivatma. Hrdi (in heart) JVALAJIHVA II. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B.
ayam being Jivatma exists). So the name 'Hrd-
(this Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 61) .
JR'MBHADEVI. Sec under Kottuva (Gape). "With three legs, three heads, six hands and nine eyes,
JRMBHIK.A. Yawning or gaping. For the Puranic comes Jvara the terrible monster, as fierce as Yama
story of how gape came into existence in the world, see
under Kottuva (Gape). the god of death and fearful like a thousand clouds with
thunderbolt, gaping and sighing, with tight body and
JUHU. A King of the family of Yayati. (Bhagavata,
horrible face, rendered so by many eyes." (M.B. Visnu
Skandha9).
JVALA A daughter of Taksaka. The King Rksa mar-
I. Parva, Chapter 122).
ried her. Matinara was the son born to the couple. To this uncouth figure Siva gave the name Jvara, who
named Vrjimvan was born to Krosta. Svahi was born JYESTHAPUSKARA. A holy place. Those who visit this
to Vrjinlvan. Ruseku to Svahi, Citraratha to Ruseku holy place will get the fruits of performing the sacrifice
and Sasabindu to Citraratha. Thousand sons were born of Agnistoma. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 200,
to Sasabindu who was an emperor. Important among Stanza 66).
those thousand who were blessed with radiance, fame, JYESTHASAMA. A Sama meditated upon by the
wealth and beauty, were Prthusravas, Prthuyasas, hermit Jyestha. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 348,
Prthutejas, Prthubhava, Prthuklrti and Prthumati. Stanza 46) .
USanas was the son of Prthusravas, Sineyu was the son JYESTHILA. A river. This river stays in the palace of
of Us anas and Rukmakavaca the son of Sineyu. Ruk- Va'runa worshipping him. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter
makavaca killed all the archers and conquered the 9, Stanza 21).
countries and performing asvamedha (horse sacrifice) JYESTHILA. A holy place. He who stays in this
gave away all the countries he conquered, as gift to of giving a
holy place for a night will get the fruits
Brahmanas. Five sons were born to Rukmakavaca. Jya- thousand cows as gift. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 84,
magha was one of them. His brothers were Rukmesu, Stanza 164).
Prthurukma, Parigha and Hari. Of them Parigha and JYOTI I. Son of the Vasu named Aha. Mention is made
Hari were made Kings of foreign countries. Rukmesu about him in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 66,
was given the country ruled by his father. Prthurukma Stanza 23.
served Rukmesu. They drove Jyamagha away from the JYOTI II. One of the two attendants given to Subrah-
country. manya by the God Agni (fire). The second one was
Jyamagha went to the forest and erected a hermitage Stanza 33).
Jva'lajihva. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45,
for him. Then according to the advice of a Brahmin, he JYOTIKA. A famous serpent. This serpent was born to
who was an old man took bow and arrow and got into Kasyapa by his wife Kadru. (M.B. Adi Parva,
a chariot flying a flag and went to the bank of the Chapter 35, Stanza 13).
river Narmada. He had neither wealth nor attendants. JYOTIRATHA. A famous river. The people of India
He stayed on the mountain Rksavan eating fruits and used to drink water from this river. (M.B. Bhlsma
roots. His wife Saibya also had become old. They had Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 26) .
no children. Still Jyamagha did not marry anybody JYOTIRATHYA. A river. He who bathes in this river
else. Once Jyamagha came out victorious in a fight in in the particular place merges with the river
where it
which he got a girl. Jyamagha took the girl to his wife Sonabhadra, would obtain the fruits of performing the
and told her, "This girl shall be the wife of your son." sacrifice of Agnistoma. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
She asked him how that could be wl en she had no 65, Stanza 8).
son. He said, "She will become the wife of the son who JYOTIRVASU. A King born in the family of Purura-
is going to be born to you." As a result of severe vas. He was the son of Sumati and the father of Pratika.
penance a son named Vidarbha was born to Saibya. (Bhagavata, Skandha 9) .
The damsel who became the wife of Vidarbha gave JYOTISA (M). (Astronomy and astrology). Jyotisa is
birth to two sons named Kratha and Kaisika. (Padma the science about the stars and heavenly bodies. The
Purana, Chapter 13). heavenly ^ bodies are the sun, the moon, the other
JYESTHA I. A
deity of inauspicious things. In Kamba planets and the stars etc. From the very ancient days
Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda, it is observed that
Jyestha men believed that these planets and stars in the sky
was a goddess obtained by churning the Sea of Milk. played an important part in controlling the growth
As soon as she came up from the sea of Milk, the and activities of all the living and non-living things
Trimurtis (Visnu, Brahma and Siva) found her and in the world.
sent her away ordering her to sit in inauspicious places. Astrology has been a recognized science in Egypt, China
The Goddess Jyestha came out of the Milk-Sea before and India from very ancient days. History tells us that
the goddess Laksml. So this deity is considered the 3000 years before Christ there were astronomers in
elder sister of Laksml. As she is the elder she is also Babylon. But even before that time astronomy had fully
called Mudhevi (Mudevi) The mode of worshipping
.
expanded and grown in Bharata.
this goddess given in Bodhayana Sutra. Tondiratipoti-
is The Vedas are supposed to have six Arigas (ancillaries)
alvar, who was a Vaisnava Alvar, who lived in 7th They are Siksa (Phonetics), Kalpa (ritual), Vyakarana
century A.D. said that it was useless to worship this (Grammar) Jyotisa (astronomy) Chandas (metrics),
,
Goddess. Ancient images of this Goddess have been and Nirukta (etymology). From this it can be said that
found. But worship of Jyestha was completely disconti- the Indians had acknowledged Astronomy as an anci-
nued after the 10th century. llary of the Vedas. The expounders
of the Vedas say
In Saiva Puranas it is mentioned that this Goddess that Astronomy is the eye of the Vedas.
is one of the eight portions of Paragakti. It was believed Astronomy has two sides, the doctrinal side ( Pramana-
that the powers of this Goddess regulated human lives bhaga) and the result-side ( Phalabhaga) The Calendar
.
Mina
KACA 362 KADALlGARBHA
Before long they saw Kabandha rushing towards them. once Kaca came back to life and stood before them.
He is described thus in the Mahabharata : All the three then returned to the airama happily.
"He was as big as a mountain, dark as a black cloud, The anger of the Asuras against Kaca knew no bounds.
with pointed hairs all over his body and looked fierce On another occasion the Asuras seized him and after
with a voice as loud as thunder. He had an eye on his killing him pounded his body into a paste and mixed
it up in sea-water. This time
stomach, round and yellow, emitting a glare like a also, at the request of
fire-name. Looking wicked he thrust his big tongue out DevayanI, Sukracarya brought him back to life.
of his huge mouth licking the sides." The third time the Asuras burnt the body of Kaca and
The demon stretched out his big hands and caught mixed the ashes in wine and served it to Sukracarya to
hold of Sri Rama in his right hand and Laksmana in drink. The disciple thus went inside the belly of the
his left hand. Finding themselves helpless in his hands guru. Dusk came, the cattle came and still Kaca did
Laksmana implored Rama to flee away from the not return and DevayanI reported the matter to her
demon leaving him alone. Sri Rama cut off Kabandha's father. Sukracarya sat for some time in meditation and
right hand and Laksmana cut off the left hand. then he knew that Kaca was in his own stomach. If he
Kabandha then asked them who they were. Kabandha got Kaca out, he would burst his stomach and Sukra
told Rama and Laksmana his previous story and then would die and if he did not get him out his daughter
fell dead. Rama and Laksmana burnt the dead body in would burst her heart and dje. Sukracarya was in a fix.
a funeral pyre.He rose up in the air as the Gandharva He asked Kaca how he got in and he replied that it
King of old and advised Sri Rama to go to Sugriva for was through the wine. Sukra imparted to Kaca the
knowing more about Sita. (Sargas 70 to 72, Aranya art of Mrtasanjivani and Kaca lying within the stomach
Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) .
repeated it. Then Sukracarya called Kaca by name
KACA. The first son of Brhaspati. That extremely and Kaca came out bursting the stomach of his guru.
beautiful boy was a great favourite of the devas. The preceptor lay dead and by employing the art of
1) Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu Mrtasanjivani he had learnt, Kaca brought his guru
Brahma Angiras Brhaspati Kaca. to life. Sukracarya eschewed wine from that day
2) How he studied the secret of Mrtasanjivani. The onwards and declared it as a forbidden drink to
Devas and Asuras always quarrelled with each other. brahmins. Sukracarya said that because Kaca was
Devas accepted Brhaspati as their guru and the asuras reborn from his stomach he must be deemed his son.
made Sukracarya their guru. Sukracarya knew an art 3) Kaca was cursed. Kaca remained for some more
which Brhaspati did not know, the secret of Mrtasan- time under the tutelage of Sukracarya and when his
jivani.When the devas cut the Asuras to pieces, education became complete he took leave of his
Sukracarya used to bring them back to life by his preceptor and also DevayanI. DevayanI followed him
knowledge of Mrtasanjivani. Mrtasanjivani is the art of for a long distance from the hermitage and requested
reviving the dead. him to marry her. Kaca replied he could not do so
Devas were at a loss to know what to do. They wanted because he had become a brother to DevayanI.
to learn the secret of Mrtasanjivani from Sukracarya DevayanI got angry and cursed him saying that he
somehow. It was imperative that they should learn it. would not be able to use the art of Mrtasanjivani he
Then they found out a way. They sent Kaca, son of had learnt from her father. Kaca cursed her back
Brhaspati, to Sukracarya. saying that none of the sons of sages would marry her.
Kaca went to Sukracarya and told him that he was Kaca however felt relieved that though he would not
the son of Brhaspati and had come to him to be his be able to practise the art, his disciples would be able
disciple for a period of a thousand years doing service to do so. He went back to Devaloka and was heartily
to him. The modesty of the boy appealed to Sukracarya welcomed by all the Devas. He then imparted the art
and he accepted Kaca as his disciple. of Mrtasanjivani to the devas. (Chapters 76 and 77,
DevayanI, daughter of Sukracarya, fell in love with Adi Parva, M.B.) .
Kaca. They were always together as an inseparable 4) Kaca visits Bhisma. Kaca was also one among the
couple. Asuras did not like the advent of Kaca to the several people who visited Bhisma while the latter was
As rama of Sukracarya. They knew that he had come lying on a bed of arrows awaiting death. (Sloka 9,
to study the secrets of the Asuras. Once Kaca went Chapter 47, Santi Parva, M.B.).
alone to look after the cows and the Asuras followed KACCHAM. An ancient place of habitation. (Sloka 19,
him stealthily. When Kaca entered deep into the Chapter 54, Salya Parva).
forest the Asuras killed him and gave him to the KACCHAPAM. One of the nine treasures of Kubera.
wolves. KACCHAPI. Name of the harp of Narada. (Sloka, 19,
It became dusk. The cows returned to the As'rama Chapter 54, Salya Parva, M.B.) .
without the cowherd. DevayanI waited for a long KADALlGARBHA. Daughter of the great sage
time for Kaca to come. Not seeing him DevayanI went Mankanaka. There is a story about her in Kathasarit-
weeping to her father and said, "Oh, father, the sun sagara. ,
has set. You have performed your nightly fire sacrifice. There was once a city called Iksumatl. It was on the
The cattle have come back by themselves and still banks of the river Iksumatl. It was Visvamitra who
Kaca has not returned home. I fear he is dead or has set up that river and city. In a hermitage in the thick
been killed. I cannot live without him." forest on the shores of Iksumatl lived a sage, Manka-
The affectionate Sukracarya could not bear the sight naka performing One day the beautiful
penance.
of his dear daughter weeping and so he went to the nymph Menaka, came from above. As a wind
there
forest with DevayanI and employing the art of blew, her upper garment was displaced. Seeing her
Sanjivanl lie invoked the dead youth to appear. At bare body, Mankanaka had emission. The semen of
KADALIVANA 363 KADRC
the sage fell into a Kadali (plantain) tree and from both of them looked after Kasyapa as if they were
there arose a maiden, extremely beautiful. Because she direct sisters.
was born from Kadali she was called Kadallgarbha. 3) Kadru, mother of serpents. Kadru and Vinata lived
_
Kadallgarbha grew up into a beautiful lady and one serving Kasyapa. Kasyapa was pleased with them and
day a King named Drdhavarma came that way while asked them what boon they wanted. Kadru asked for a
hunting and seeing Kadallgarbha he fell in love with her thousand serpents to be born of her and Vinata asked
and married her with the permission of Maiikanaka. for two sons who would be braver and more brilliant
The Devas advised her to scatter mustard seeds on the than the sons of Kadru. Kasyapa granted them what
way to her husband's house and in case her husband they asked for and when Kadru and Vinata became
abandoned her she should be guided by the mustard pregnant he left for the forest.
plants to return home. She did so. After some time Kadru delivered a thousand eggs and
One day by the evil advice of a barber the King Vinata two eggs. Both of them kept the eggs in warm
divorced her and she returned to the Asrama by of
jars and after five hundred years the thousand eggs
following the young mustard plants. But Marikanaka Kadru burst letting out a thousand serpents. Vinata
took her back to the King. (Taraiiga 6, Madanaman- became impatient and broke open an egg of hers. Out
jukalambaka, Kathasaritsagara) .
came from it a half developed being and that was
KADALIVANA. This grove is situated on the banks of Aruna. Aruna cursed her for being impatient and said
Kuberapuskarini which abounded in Saugandhika "You let me out half developed because of your over-
flowers. There were different kinds of plantain fruits of of
anxiety and you will, therefore, become a servant
golden hue in this grove. Hanuman resided in it. Kadru. Keep the other egg for another five hundred
chapter 146, Vana Parva, M.B.). out of it
years. Then a very powerful son will come
.
KADAMBARl I. A river flowing westwards in Jambudvipa. and that son will relieve you of your servitude to
In Bhagavata 5th Skandha said that this river got
it is its
Kadru". So saying he rose up in the air and became
name "Kadambari" because it had the hollow trunk the charioteer of the sun. After five hundred years the
of a Kadamba tree as itssource. other egg of Vinata broke and Garuda came out.
KADAMBARl II. An excellent story book in prose Adi Parva, M.B.)
written
(Chapter 16,
in Sanskrit by the great Sanskrit poet
Banabhatta. Kadambarl is the heroine of the 4) Sons of Kadru. Names of the prominent sons of
story. Kadru are given below:
KADHMOR. A saintly King. He is worthy of being
remembered in the morning. (Chapter 165, Anusa- Sesa, Purananaga, Aryaka, Vasuki, Kapinjara, Ugraka,
sana Parva). Airavata, Elaputra, Kalasapotaka, Taksaka, Savama,
KADRU. Wife of Kasyapa and daughter of Daksapraja- Sumanas, Karkofaka, Nila, Dadhimukha, Dhananjaya,
pati. Anila, Vimala, Kaliya, Kalmasa, Pindaka, Maninaga,
1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus: Visnu Sabala, Apta, Sakha, Pindaraka, Hastipinda, Vali,
Brahma Dak sa Kadru . Karavlra, Pitharaka, Sikha, Puspadarhstra, Sumukha,
2) Kadru-- Wife or daughter of Kasyapa ? Whether KadrQ Nisfhanaka, Vilvaka, Kaunapas'ana, Hemaguha, Bilva-
was the wife or daughter of Kasyapa is a question which pandura, Kujhara, Nahusa, Mrsnada, Kunjara, Pingala,
remains unanswered still in the Puranas. Chapter 65 of Samkha, Prabhakara, Bahyakarna, Sirapurna, Kumuda,
. Bhasa Bharata states like this. Hastipada, Haridraka, Kumudaksa, Mudgara, Apara-
The of
six spiritual sons Brahma are :
Marici, Arigiras, jita, Tittiri, Kambala, Jyotika, Halika, Asvatara,
Atri, Pulastya, Pulaha and Kratu.
Marici got a son Pannaga, Kardama, Kalikaka, Srivaha, Bahumulaka,
named Kasyapa and he married the thirteen daughters Vrtta, Kauravya, Karkara, Samvrtta, Dhrtaraslra,
of Daksa, namely, Aditi, Did, Kala, Danayus, Danu, Arkara, Patta, Samkhapinda, Kundodara, Sariikha-
Sirhhika, Krodha, Pradha, Visva, Vinata, Kapila, Muni mukha, Subahu, Mahodara. Kusmandaka, Virajas,
and Kadru. So according to this, Kadru was the wife of Ksemaka, Salipinda
Kasyapa. All the serpents in the world have been born from these
But the 14th Sarga of Aranya Kanda of Valmiki Rama- prominent serpents. (Chapter 35, Adi Parva, M.B.) .
yana states :
5) Kadru curses her sons. Once Kadru called Vinata to
Daksaprajapati got sixty illustrious daughters and of her side and asked her the colour of Uccaissravas, the
these Kasyapa married Aditi, Dili, Danu, Kalika horse of Indra. It was purely a white horse and Vinata
Tamra, Krodhavasa, Muni and Surasa. Krodhavasa told so. But Kadru said its tail was black. Each stood
gave birth to eight daughters. They were Mrg!, Mrga- : firm in her statement and then Kadru made a bet. She
manda, Harl, Bhadramata, Mataiigi, Sarduli, SVeta; who was defeated in the bet should serve the other as
Surabhi, Surasa and Kadru. her slave. Vinata agreed. Kadru wanted to cheat Vinata
Tamra another wife of Kasyapa gave birth to five and so asked her sons to remain suspended from the
daughters, namely, KrauncI, Bhasi, Syeni, Dhrtarastri tail of the horse in such an artful way that the tail
and KrauncI gave birth to owls, Bhasi to Bhasas,
Sukl. would look black from a distance. Some of her sons re-
Syeni to eagles and vultures, Dhrtarastri to swans and fused to be a party to this deceit and Kadru cursed
Suki to Nata. Nata gave birth to Vinata. them saying that they would all be burnt in the Sarpa-
Thus, according to the Ramayana Kadru was the sattra of Janamejaya. Kasyapa did not like the curse.
daughter of Kagyapa born of his wife Krodhavasa. But Brahma came there and said that the serpents
Again Vinata who is spoken of as the elder sister of as a class were injurious to society and as such a curse
Kadru in Mahabharata is the daughter of the grand- of that nature was necessary. Brahma then taught him
daughter of Kasyapa. This means that Kadrii's mother Visasarhharavidya (Treatment of snake-poisoning).
and Vinata 's grand mother's mother were sisters. But (Chapter 20, Adi Parva, M.B.) .
KAHODA 364 KAILASA
6) Kadru and children go to Ramanfyaka. Once Kadru pleased with her services, Visravas took her as his
told Vinata. "Vinata, take me to the island of Rama- wife. Once she requested her husband for children.
nlyaka in the middle of the ocean. It is a beautiful place Accordingly she got Ravana, Kumbhakarna and
to stay. Let your son, Garuda, take my sons to that Vibhisana as sons.
place." Vinata took Kadru and Garuda took her KAIKEYI I.
children during the journey. Garuda rose high up in the 1) General information. One of the wives of Dasa-
air nearing the sun and the serpents began to feel the ratha, who had three Kausalya, Kaikeyi and
wives,
heat unbearable and began to get charred. Kadru then Sumitra. It is mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana,
prayed to Indra and the latter then sent a heavy down- Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 70, Stanza 28 that Kaikeyi was
pour of rains. This saved the serpents from being burnt the sister of Yudhajit, the King of Kekaya. Kekaya
to death and they reached the island of Ramaniyaka was seven days' journey away from Ayodhya.
safe. (Chapters 25 and 26, Adi Parva, M.B.). 2) Getting boons. In days of old there was a battle
7) Other deta I . between the devas and the asuras and Dasaratha went
(i) Kadru lives in the court of Brahma worshipping him. to the world of Devas, with Kaikeyi, in a chariot to
(Chapter Sabha Parva, M.B.)
11, .
help Indra against the Asuras. The devas were in a
(ii) Kadru taking
the form of Skanda graha in an sorry plight due to the illusive and sorcerous mode of
infinitely minute size enters the wombs of women and fighting of Sambara the Asura and his men. Dasaratha
eats the embryo. (Chapter 230, Vana Parva, M.B. ) . faced the Asuras in ten directions at the same time and
KAHODA (KAHODAKA KHAGODAKA). A sage fought with them. In this fight his chariot had to
be
the disciple and son-in-law of Uddalaka. He was turned to every direction and up and down so swiftly
the father of the sage As^avakra. that the bolt of the wheel slipped out and the wheel
Uddalaka had another name "Svetaketu". He was a was about to come off when Kaikeyi inserted her thumb
sage who had personally seen and talked to the goddess in the hole of the bolt and kept the chariot safe and
Sarasvati. It was at that time that Kahodaka became steady. The King was not aware of this bravery on
the
his disciple. Kahodaka who was of a gentle nature part of his wife. At last when he came to know of this
served his preceptor for a long time and won his favour. he promised to give her two boons. The queen said
He was immensely pleased and after teaching the that she would ask for those two boons later, as she
necessary things gave his daughter Sujata in marriage didn't want anything then. After this the King and
to Kahodaka. In due course, Sujata became pregnant. the queen returned to their country. (Valmiki
One day, the child in the womb cried out that there Ramayana, Sarga 9; Kamba Ramayana, Balakanda).
was a mistake in his father's recitation of the Vedas. 3) Request for the boons and the forest life of Sri
Rama. As
Kahodaka was displeased at this. He cursed the child the celebration of anointing Sri Rama as the Heir
that he would be born with a body having eight bends
apparent in Ayodhya was going on, the humpy
(curves). So the boy was named "Asfavakra" (one Manthara approached Kaikeyi and advised her on the
who has eight bends). Sujata who was poor, once sent ways of making her son Bharata King and sending
Sri
Kahodaka to King Janaka for some money. Kahodaka Rama to forest. At first Kaikeyi refused to agree to
who was defeated in a disputation was immersed in
this, but at last she succumbed to
the repeated advice
water. Astavakra rescued his father. (See under Asfa- of Manthara. DaSaratha came to see Kaikeyi who was
vakra) lying in grief. Making use of this opportunity Kaikeyi
.
KAHOLA. An ancient sage who flourished in Indra's requested for the granting of the two
boons promised
assembly. Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 7)
( earlier. One boon was that Bharata should be anointed
KAIKASI. Mother of Ravana. as heir apparent making use of the preparations made
1) Birth. From the wrath of Brahma the giant for Sri Rama
and the other boon was that Sri Rama
Praheti was born and from Brahma's hunger the demi- should live in forest, wearing bark of trees and matted
god Heti was born. The son Vidyutkesa was born to hair for fourteen years. When
Dasaratha heard these
Heti, of Bhaya the sister of Kala(Godof death Time) .
requests he became unconscious. But he granted her
VidyutkeSa married Salakatanka the daughter of wishes.
Sandhya. A son named Sukesa was born to them. KAIKEYI II. Wife of Ajamidha, a King of the Puru
SukeSa married Devavati daughter of Stanza 37)
Manimaya, a dynasty. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 95,
.
Gandharva. Three sons Malyavan, Sumali and Mall KAIKEYI III. Sudesna, the wife of the King of Virata
were born to them. The three brothers Malyavan, was known by the name Kaikeyi also. She was the
Sumali and Mali married Sundarl, Ketumati and born of his wife
daughter of Kekaya, the King of Suta,
Vasudha respectively, the three daughters of Narmada, Malavi. As she was the daughter of Kekaya, she got
a gandharva woman. To Sumali, by his wife the name Kaikeyi. (M.B. Virata Parva, Chapter 16).
Ketumati,'
were born the ten sons, Prahasta, Akampana, Vikata, Besides, it is stated in the Puranas that
all the princess-
Kalakamukha, Dhumraksa, Danda, Suparsva, Sarh- es of the kingdom of Kekaya were called by the name
hrada, Prakvata and Bhasakarna and four daughters Kaikeyi.
Veka (Brha), Puspotkata, KaikasI and Kumbhlnasl. KAILASA (KAILASAKA) . A serpent belonging to the
2) Marriage. As Sumali was walking Mention is made about this serpent
through forests KaSyapa family.
with his wives and daughters, he saw so Stanza
many Yaksas in Mahabharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103,
(demi-gods) going in planes to pay homage to 11.
Vaisravana. Sumali understood that Vaisravana KAILASA
became worthy of homage because he was the son of 1 The mount Mahameru has an
General information.
)
Visravas. So he took his daughter KaikasI and left area of eighteen thousand nazhikas (Indian mile of ^
her in the house of Visravas. After a while, and a of two thousand nazhikas. On the
being Kosa) height
KAIRATA PARVA 365 KAITABHA
eastern side of this mount there are two mountains (darkness). The other drop was hard and from it
called Jathara and Devakuta. Pavamana and Pariyatra Kaitabha was born with the attribute of Rajas
are the two mountains on the western side. On the (activity) .
south there are the two mountains of Kailasa and 3) Madhu-Kaitabhas' acquiring boons. Madhu-Kaitabhas
Karavlra. The two mountains on the north are called were born in water, grew up in water and walked on
Trismga and Makaragiri. It is stated in Mahabharata, the surface of water, haughty and arrogant. They
Vana Parva, Chapters 109 and 141 that the abodes of began to think about how the big flood of water came
Siva and Kubera are on the mount Kailasa. Once, ^to into existence. Then Devi appeared
before them and
please Siva, Mahavisnu performed penance on Kailasa. taught them the mantra or incantation of Vagblja
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 222, Stanzas 33 to 40). It (origin of logos) Reciting this mantra, Madhu and
.
is mentioned in Maha. Bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter Kaitabha worshipped Devi for thousand years. Devi
3 that the mountain Mainaka stands to the north of appeared and asked them what they wished. They
Kailasa. Once Vyasa went to Kailasa. (M.B. Sabha wanted the boon that death should befall them only as
Parva, Chapter 43, Stanza 17). In Vana Parva, they desired. Devi granted them the boon. After this
Chapter 106, mention is made that the King Sagara, they became haughtier because of the boon, and lived
with his two queens, once went to Kailasa for penance. in thewater playing with the creatures in water having
It was on the Kailasa that Bhagiratha performed nobody to confront them (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 1).
penance to propitiate Siva to bring down Gariga. 4) The theft of the Vedas. Madhu Kaitabhas saw
Kailasa is hundred yojanas high. The devas come to Brahma lying in the lotus flower reciting the four
this place daily and return. It is mentioned in Sabha Vedas which he had created. They caught hold of all
Parva, Chapter 141, that in the place where Kubera the Vedas and went to Patala, (the nether world) and
lives on Kailasa there live a large number of Yaksas hid themselves there. Brahma grew sad at the loss of
(demi-gods), Raksasas (giants) Kinnaras (heavenly the Vedas and followed Madhu-Kaitabhas, who began
musicians), Garudas (hawks) Mataiigas (elephants) to attack Brahma. At this Brahma became terribly
and Gandharvas (semi-gods) The lake of lotus of
. afraid of the Asuras and ran to Mahavisnu. who was
Kubera which was reached by Bhimasena once, was in lying in a deep sleep of contemplation. Brahma praised
Kailasa. In Vana Parva, it is mentioned that the him. Mahavisnu woke up. (Devi Bhagavata, Skandha
Pandavas visited Kailasa during their forest life. It 10).
could be understood from Mahabharata, Anusasana 5) The death of Madhu and Kaitabha. According to the
Parva, Chapter 83 that Kamadhenu performed penance request of Brahma, Mahavisnu confronted Madhu and
on the Kailasa, once. Kaitabha. Madhu engaged Visnu in fighting while
KAIRATA PARVA. A sub section of Vana Parva in Kaitabha took rest and when Madhu became tired,
Mahabharata. Kaitabha engaged Visnu in fighting. Thus the fight
KAlSlKA. See under Jyamagha. went on for a long time and Visnu became tired of
KAlSlKA (M) An ancient country in Bharata. It is
. continuous fight. Visnu understood that owing to the boon
mentioned in Maha Bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 14 given by Devi the Asuras would die only if they wished
that Bhlsmaka the King of Vidarbha conquered this for death, and that no body could kill them. So Visnu
country. began to meditate on Devi, who said "It would never
KAITABHA. be possible for you to kill Madhu and Kaitabha
1) Kaitabha was the brother of
General information. because of my boon. They could be killed only by
Madhu, an Asura (demon) These two brothers are
. deceit. So you may kill them deceitfully".
known in the Puranas as Madhu-Kaitabhas. Hearing these words Mahavisnu approached the Asuras
2) Origin. In the Puranas, two stories slightly different and said to them. "I am much pleased with you. So
from each other, occur about the birth of Madhu and you may ask for any boon." Hearing this they laughed
Kaifabha. One story occurs in Devi Bhagavata, and said that they were more powerful than Visnu
Skandha 10 and the other in Mahabharata, Santi and that he might ask of them any boon. Taking that
Parva. In Devi Purana, Chapter 1, it is stated as opportunity Mahavisnu said "Oh powerful persons.
!
under the sand in a wilderness called Ujjalakam. A of Avlksit and son of Parlksit. For genealogy see
King of the Iksvaku family named Kuvalayasva killed Tarlksit'.
Dhundhu. So Kuvalayasva got the name Dhundhu- (ii) Ugrascna, Citrasena, Indrasena, Susena and
mara. See under Dhundhu. ( Mahabharata, Vana Bhlmasena were his brothers. (Chapter 94, Adi Parva).
Parva, Chapter 202). (Khara and Atikaya are the 2) Other details.
rebirths of Madhu and Kaitabha. See under Atikaya). (i)Kaksasena was a member of the court of Yama.
KAITAVA. Another name of Uluka, the son of (Chapter 8, Sabha Parva).
Sakuni. (ii) Kaksasena was considered to be one among the
KAITAVA (M) . A
country in ancient Bharata. Men- pious souls, like Sibi, Pratardana, Rantideva, Amba-
tion is made about
this country in Mahabharata, risa, Janamejaya, Vrsadarbhi, Paras'urama, Sri Rama,
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 18, Stanza 13). Karandhama and Mitrasaha who had attained salva-
KAKA A son of Kariisa (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha) . tion by their charity and righteousness. Mahabharata
KAKAM. A town in ancient India. (M.B. Bhisma, states that Kaksasena the saintly king attained
Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 64, contains a reference to salvation by presenting gifts to the great Vasistha.
this) .
(Sloka 14, Chapter 137, Anusasana Parva).
KAKl I. Original mother of the crows. (See under KAKSASENA II. There was another King called Kaksa-
CROW) . sena in the court of Dharmaputra. (Sloka 22, Chapter
KAKl II. One of the seven mothers who suckled 4, Sabha Parva) .
Subrahmanya at his birth. The seven mothers were KAKSASENASRAMA. An ASrama situated on the top
Kaki, Halima, Brahmika, Malinl, Palala, Arya and of the mountain, Asita. Perhaps this was constructed
Mitra. (M.B. Aranya Parva, Chapter 228, Verse 10). by Kaksasena. (Sloka 12, Chapter 89, Vana Parva).
KAKA (CROW). KAKSEYU (KRSEYU). Son ofllaudrasva born of a
1 ) Origin. Kasyapa was the son of Marici, who was nymph called Misrakesl. He had nine brothers, named
the son of Brahma. Kasyapa's wife Tamra had many Rkseyu, Sannateyu, Ghrteyu (Krteyu) Citeyu. Sthandi- ,
daughters like Kaki, SyenI, BhasI, Grdhrka, Suki and leyu, Dharmeyu, Sammiteyu, Rteyu and Matinara. For
Grlva. From Kaki were born the crows in the world. genealogy see under 'Puruvarhsa'. (Sloka 10, Chapter
(Agni Purana, Chapter 19). Adi Parva)
94, .
2) Crows the symbol of sin. There is a reference in KAKSlVAN I. This was a Rsi well praised in the
Siva Purana to this. Long ago the King of KaSI had a Rgveda.
daughter named Kalavati. Even in her youth, she 1) Birth. King Kalihga did not have children for a
received the "Saiva pancaksara mantra." After that, long time. The King, therefore requested the sage
she was married by Dasarha, King of Mathura, who Dirghatamas (Gautama) to get a son for him by his
was a sinner. When he touched Kalavati who was a queen. The sage consented. But the queen did not
holy woman, he experienced unbearable heat. Kalavati like to sleep with the old sage. She therefore requested
said that it was because of the King's sin. So she took her servant maid, Usi, to lie with the sage. Kaksivan
DaSarha to the sage Garga, who purified Dasarha with was the son born to Dirghatamas of Us I. (Sukta 125,
his mantras (incantations) and made him stand in Anuvaka 18, Mandala 1, Rgveda).
water. At once the King's sins came out of his body 2) Other details.
in the shape of crows. Some of them flew away. Many ( i)
He was of the family of Arigiras and he lived in a
of them fell down with their wings burnt. Seeing this, hermitage in the east. (Chapter 208, Sand Parva, and
the sage Garga said that all those crows were the Chapter 135, Anusasana Parva).
volume of sins accumulated in the course of the innu- (ii) He praised Visnu by reciting the Rks with deep
merable births through which he had passed. (Siva concentration and acquired many virtues. (Chapter 292,
Purana, Pancaksara Ma.ha.tmya). Sand Parva) .
3) T e Crow and Rice-offerings. In Uttara Ramayana (iii) Mahabharata states that Kaksivan was the precep-
there is a story about the crow's right to eat the tor of Indra and also the creator of the world with
offering of rice to Pitrs. Once a King named Marutta Rudratejas (majesty equal to that of Siva) .Yavakrita,
performed a Mahesvara sattra. Indra and other gods Raibhya, Arvavasu, Paravasu, Kaksivan, Angiras and
attended the sattra. Hearing about this, Ravana came Kanva are seven Barhisads (a set of manes born of
that way. The frightened gods fled away assuming the Brahma ) who are also gurus of Indra living in the east.
forms of different birds. Yama escaped in the form of (Chapter 150, Anusasana Parva).
a crow. From that time, Yama was pleased with crows. (iv)Kaksivan was famous among the Yajvans. (Sukta
He gave a blessing that in future, when human beings 18, Anuvaka 5, Mandala
Rgveda). 1,
time. (Uttara Ramayana). (vi) Kaksivan who was returning home from the
KAKSA. A place of habitation of ancient Bharata. asrama of the preceptor after completing his education
(Sloka 49, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva). spent one night at a place on the way. In the morning
when he awoke he saw Svanaya son of King Bhava-
KAKSAKA. A serpent born of the family of Vasuki.
This serpent was burnt to death at the Sarpasattra of yavya before him. The beautiful boy had strayed to that
place by accident while playing with his friends nearby.
Janamejaya. (Sloka 6, Chapter 57, Adi Parva) .
Kaksivan was attracted by the enchanting features of
KAKSASENA I.
the boy and decided to make him the husband of his
1) General information, (i) A King who was the grandson daughter. Svanaya on knowing the details regarding
KAKSIVAN 367 KALAI
Kaksivan took him to his father'spalace and the King monds). (39) Dhatusamskarana (purification of metals).
received the sage with respectand gave him many (40) Skill distinguishing the colours of diamonds.
in
presents. (Sukta 125, Anuvaka 18, Mandala 1, (41) Khanipariksana (finding out of mines). (42)
Rgveda). Understanding trees and their value (Vrksayurveda-
KAKSIVAN II. A King
of ancient India. He was the yoga). (43) Cockfight. (44) Understanding the langu-
father of Bhadra, wife of Rsitasva. (Sloka 17, Chapter age of birds like Maina. (45) Massaging. (46) Kes'a-
120, Adi Parva). praksalana. (47) Aksara mustika kathana. (48) Vide'a-
KAKSIVAN. A son of Maharsi Gautama. Mahabharata, bhasapathana (Learning of foreign languages). (49)
Sabha Parva, Chapter 21, Verse 3 states that at the Desabhasa-jnana. (knowledge of the language of one's
time when Gautama was living in Girivraja, he had own country) (50) Bhavikalapravacana (fortune-
.
connection with a Sudra woman of U&Inara land and telling) Yantranirmana (making of machines)
.
(51) .
as a result of it Kaksivan was born to her. This (52) Smaranasaktiposana (increasing memory power) .
Gautama was not the husband of Ahalya. 1 (53) Sravanapatha (studying by hearing). (54) Nimi-
Kaksivan had a son named Candakau:' ika and two sakavana (Instant poetry-making) (55) Kriyavikalpa. .
daughters named Bhadra and Ghosa. Mahabharata, (56) Kapatabhava(False poses), (57) Chandojnana
Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 1 7 states that Kaksivan (knowledge of different metres). (58) Vastragopana.
flourished in Yudhisthira's assembly. (59) Game of dice. (60) Another gambling game. (61)
KAKSIVATASUTA." A female sage named Ghosa who Balalila (entertainment of children) (62) Vinayacara- .
was the daughter of the sage Kaksivan. As she was krama (etiquette). (63) Vaitalikavidyajnana (panegy-
suffering from the disease of leprosy, no one was pre- rics). (64) Karyagrahana (comprehension of facts).
pared to marry her. She composed a mantra in praise ( Sabdasagara) .
the last line, proposed by one person to be completed 3) Curse- on Tama. Yama was once cursed by the sage
by another as a trial of skill). (34) Nirmana (making Ani Mandavya. It was as a result of it that Yama was
of cots of canes). (35) Carpentry. (36) Logic. (37) born as Vidura. (For details see under Animandavya).
Vastuvidya (science of building homes). (38) Svarna- 4) Tama became Maharfi. Sri Rama who returned after
ratnapariiodhana (connoisseurship of gold and dia- his forest life became king of Ayodhya. He ruled over
It is also stated elsewhere that Kaksivan was the son of Dirghatamas, the father of Gautama. See under Dirghatamas,
2. Kala and Dharma are not the same person. See under Dharma.
KALAI 368 KALAI
the country for 1 1,000 years. Then it was time to recall here that those who have led virtuous lives in the world,
Mahavisnu who had incarnated as Sri Rama, to Vai- find their abode after death. They lead a life of eternal
kundia. Brahma sent Yama to the earth to bring back heavenly bliss there. (Garuda Purana, Chapter 14) .
Sri Rama. Yama who assumed the guise of a young (10) Naraka (Hell) There is a world called Pitrloka in
.
Maharsi, went to Ayodhya and visited Sri Rama. the middle of the three worlds, on their southern side
He said that he was the disciple of the sage Atibala and below the earth and above the Atala loka. The Agnis-
had come to tell him a secret. So Laksmana was posted vattas and other pitrs stay there in meditative trance
at the entrance to prevent anyone from entering the for securing prosperity to those who come to pitrloka.
room. It was announced that anyone who tried to enter Yama isthe ruler of pitrloka. Since he is scrupulous in
would be slaughtered. After that, while Sri Rama and imparting justice, Yama is also called Yamadharma.
Yama were having their secret talk, Durvasas, the sage, He administers justice with an even hand to all living
who was hungry after a fast of 1,000 years, arrived at beings brought there by his agents, according to their
the door, asking for food. Laksmana told him humbly virtues and vices during their earthly lives. He has
that he could not be allowed to enter just then. power to assess the virtues and vices of people and to
Durvasas, who became furious, was about to curse the assign suitable punishments to them, but not to alter
whole race of Kings. So Laksmana entered the room the laws or methods of punishment. Sinners are sent to
and informed Sri Rama of the arrival of Durvasas. At the different Narakas by Yamadharma according to the
the same time, in fulfilment of the order, he was ready nature and seriousness of their sins. The Puranas refer
to be slaughtered. Vasistha suggested that it would be to twentyeight Narakas in all. They are:
enough if Laksmana was banished from the palace. (1) Tamisram. Those who rob others of their wealth,
Accordingly he was expelled and he went and drowned wives, children etc, are bound with ropes by Yama's
himself in the depths of the river Sarayu. Sri Rama servants and cast into the Naraka known as Tamisram.
who was broken-hearted at his separation from Laks- There, they are given sound beating until they faint.
mana went to the same river and drowned himself there After they recover their senses, the beating is repeated
shortly after. Yama then took their souls to Vaikuntha. and those who try to escape are bound hand and foot
(Uttara Ramayana). and pushed again into this hell. This is repeated as long
5) Tama became crow. In Uttara Ramayana there is as Fate has ordained.
a story that at Marutta's Yaga, Yama who was frighten- (2) Andhatdmtsram. This hell is intended for the wife
ed at the sight of Ravana, escaped in the form of a who takes food after deceiving the husband or the hus-
crow. (For details, see under Crow). band who takes food after deceiving his wife. The
6) An Age without Tama. In the Puranas there are refe- punishmen there is the same as that of Tamisram except
rences to three periods when there was no Yama. the beating. But the excruciating pain suffered by the
(
1
)
One such period was in Krtayuga. At that time victims on being tied fast with Yama's rope by his
there was no death on earth which became overcrowded servants, makes them fall down senseless.
with living beings. Unable to bear their weight, the (3) Rauravam. This is which those who
the hell into
earth sank down to a depth of 100 yojanas. The goddess have persecuted other living beings are cast. Those
of Earth offered tearful prayers to Mahavisnu, who who seize and enjoy another man's property or resour-
incarnated as Varaha (pig) and lifted up the earth 1 00 ces, also come under 'Persecution'. When such people
yojanas. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 142). are thrown into this hell, those whom they had per-
(2) When Markandeya reached the age of sixteen, secuted or cheated while on earth, assume the shape
Yama went to him to take away his life. Markandeya of "ruru" and torment them severely. "Ruru" is a
hid himself behind the idol of Siva. Yama threw his kind of dreadful serpent. This hell is known as "Raura-
noose at him but round Siva's neck. Siva opened
it fell vam" because of the abundance of rurus there.
his third eye and glared at Yama who was burnt to (4) Maharauravam. Here also there are ruru serpents.
ashes in its fire. (See under
Markandeya) .
Only they are of a fiercer type. Those who deny the
(3) See under Pancall, Para 1, Sub Para 2. legitimate heirs, their inheritance and possess and enjoy
7) Tama returned Satyav n' Life. >
(See under Satya van). others' property, are squeezed to death by these terrible
8) Yama and King Nrga. See under I^rga. serpents coiling round them.
9) Tamapuri (the city of Yama) Yamapurl is thousand
.
(5) Kumbhipakam. This is the hell for the punishment
yojanas in extent. There is an entrance on each of the of those who kill and eat birds and animals. Here, oil is
four sides. On one side of the city stands Citragupta's kept boiled in huge vessels. Yama's servants plunge
mansion. The fort surrounding the city is made of iron. sinners into this oil. The period of their torture extends
There are a hundred street? in Yamapurl. They are all to as many years as there were hairs on the bodies of
decorated with banners and festoons. There is a group of the birds or animals which they killed and ate.
people in Citragupta's mansion. They are engaged in (6) Kalasutram (Yamasuira~). This hell is terribly hot. It
calculating the life-span of living beings. They take into is here that those who do not respect their father,
account the vices and virtues of human beings. To the mother, elders, etc. are cast. They rush about in the
south of Citragupta's residence is situated "Jvara- unbearable heat of this hell and drop down exhausted,
mandira" (the abode of diseases). Adjacent to it are from time to time.
the abodes of all kinds of diseases, each disease having (7) Asi(ta) patram. This is the hell
in which those sinners
its own abode. Yama's home is situated at a distance who abandon svadharma own
duty) and accept
(one's
of twenty yojanas from the abode of Citragupta. It has Paradharma (others' duty) are
flogged by Yama's
an area of two hundred yojanas and a height of fifty servants with whips made of asipatra (sharp-edged
yojanas. It is supported by one thousand columns. On sword-shaped leaves). When they run about under
one side of it thereis an extensive
assembly hall. It is the flogging they trip over stones and thorns and fall on
KALAI 369 KALA I
(10) Krmibhojanam (Food for worms). Depraved Brah- They are hurled into Avici from a mountain which is
manas who take their food without worshipping gods 100 yojanas in height. The whole region of Avici is
and honouring guests, are thrown into this "Krmi- always shaken like an ocean with turbulent waves. As
bhojana" Naraka which is one lakh yojanas in extent. soon as the sinners fall into it they are utterly smashed
Worms, insects and serpents sting them and eat them up. into dust. They are again restored to life and the
Once their bodies are completely eaten up by these punishment is repeated.
most painful experience for them. (xii) Once Yama gave advice to the sage Gautama on
(28) Suclmukham. Proud and miserly people who the subject of Dharma. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter
refuse to spend money even for the bare necessities of 192).
life, find their place in this hell. Those who do not (xiii) Yama once gave a boon to a Brahmana named
repay the money they have borrowed, will also be cast Japaka. (See under JAPAKA. M.B. Santi Parva,
into this hell. Here, their bodies will be continually Chapter 199).
pricked and pierced with needles. (Devi Bhagavata, (xiv) Once Mahavisnu taught Yama, Siva-Sahasra-
8th Skandha; Visnu Purana, Part 2, Chapter 6). nama. Yama taught it to Naciketa. (See under SlVA
12) Mantra {incantation} to invoke Tama. and NACIKETA. Also M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter
"Mahisastha Yamagaccha 17).
dandahasta mahfibala / (xv) Yama
sent his special agents to bring a Brahmana
raksa tvarh daksinadvararh named (See under
Sarmi. &ARMI. Also M.B.
Vaivasvata namos stu te". // AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 68) .
After invoking Yama with this mantra, one should (xvi ) Yama once lectured on the efficacy of giving
worship with the mantra "Vaivasvatarh Sarhgamanam". "tila" (gingelly seed) "jala"(water) and anna (rice)
(Agni Purana, Chapter 56). to a Brahmana. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 68).
13) Tama Defeated by Ravana. Once the sage Narada (xvii) Yama once explained
the secrets of Dharma.
went to Ravana and expatiated on the glory and splen- (M.B. Amis' asana Parva, Chapter 130).
dour of Yama. Immediately Ravana set out to Sarhya- (xviii) Yama used to worship Siva on the mountain
rnani with the intention of subduing Yama. Accepting Munjavan. (M.B. Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 8).
Ravana's challenge, Yama came out. After a terrible (xix) Dhumorna is the name of Yama's wife. (M.B.
battle between them, which lasted for seven days neither Udyoga Parva, Chapter 117, Verse 9).
of them was able to defeat the other. Both of them (xx) There is a story in Mahabharata, Adi Parva
had received Brahma's boon. In the night of the about the condition of the world in the absence of
seventh day, Yama rushed forth with his staff to beat Yama. Once Yama started a prolonged yaga at
Ravana to death. Then Ravana took his Brahmastra. Naimisaranya. At that time there was no death in the
At moment, Brahma came to the battle-
that critical world. All living beings continued to live indefinitely.
and persuaded Yama to withdraw from the fight.
field The Devas all joined together and approached Yama
Yama retreated to his city and closed the gate. with a request to solve the problem. Yama concluded
Ravana went back with a triumphant shout. (Uttara hisyaga and resumed his duties and death came to
Ramayana ) . the world again. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 199) .
14) Other details concerning Tama. KALA II. A Maharsi. Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
(i) Yama attended Draupadi's Svayarhvara. (M B Chapter 7, Verse 14, refers to this sage as offering
Adi Parva, Chapter 186, Verse 6). worship to Indra, in Indra's assembly.
(ii) It was Yama who performed "Samitra" (killing KALA. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. (See under Kalika) .
of animals) at the yaga done by devas in the Naimi- KALA. See under the word Kalamana.
saranya. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 196, Verse 1). KALA (S) A group of Manes. This group lives in the
(iii)
In the fight between Indra and Arjuna in Brahmasabha. ( Chapter 1 1 Santi Parva) ,
.
choosing some boon or other, and then he removed He was the brother of Prahasta, Ravana's Minister. (For
himself to the northern planes of the Himalayas, where Genealogy, see under Prahasta). During Sri Rama's
also he continued chanting mantras. There too his efful- life in the forest Kalakamukha was also among Khara,
gence became so powerful that Indra deputed celestial Dusana and others.The other eleven members of that
women to obstruct his Japa, but they could do nothing group were Syenagami, Prthugrlva, Yajnasatru, Vihah-
in the matter. Then Indra deputed Kala to end the gama, Durjaya, Karavlraksa, Parusa, Meghamali,
brahmin's life, but he failed in the attempt. Ultimately Mahamall, Sarpasya and Rudhirasana. (Valmiki Rama-
King Iksvaku came to the brahmin and asked for half yana, Aranya Kanda, 26th Sarga).
the power he :had earned by his tapas, which the KALAKANYA. Daughter of Kala (Yama). (See under
brahmin readily granted. And, Iksvaku became thus Puranjana) .
famous all over the worlds. (Kathasaritsagara, Surya- KALAKAVRKSlYA. An ancient Saint. During the
prabhalambaka) .
4) Arjuna and the Kdlakeyas. The headquarters of the Fifteen Nimisas make one Kasfha. "Thirty Kasthas
Asuras was Hiranyapura, situated near Devaloka. Once make one Kala and thirty Kalas make one Muhurta.
they allied themselves' with thousands of other Asuras Thirty Muhurtas make one day (man's) and thirty
called "Nivatakavacas" and launched an attack on such days, divided into two fortnights form a Masa
Devaloka. Indra sent his charioteer Matali and brought (month). Six months form an Ayana there are two;
Arjuna to Devaloka. Arjuna defeated the Nivatakavacas ayanas called Daksina and Uttara. Daksinayana is
and Kalakeyas in battle. A large number of Kalakeyas night, and Uttarayana is day for the Devas. 12,000
were killed in the battle. ( M.B. Vana Parva Chapters Divyavarsas Deva varsas form a Caturyuga consisting
172-175). of the Krta Treta -Dvapara and Kali yugas, con-
KALAKIRTI. A Ksatriya King. Mahabharata, Adi sisting respectively of 4000, 3000, 2000 and 1000
Parva, Chapter 67 says that this King was born from Divyavarsas. Before the commencement and after the
the limb of Suparna, the younger brother of the Asura, end of every one of the above four yugas there is an
Mayura. interval respectively of 400, 300, 200, and 100 years.
KALAKOTI. A sacred place in Naimisaranya. (M.B. The interval before the commencement is called
Vana P_arva, Chapter 95, Verse 3) .
Sandhya and that at the end is called SandhyamSa. The
KALAKUTA. The virulent poison that came up period between Sandhya and Sandhhyamsa is called Krta
during the churning of the Ocean of Milk. Siva swallow- yuga etc. One thousand Caturyugas form one day for
ed and retained it in his throat, and so he came to Brahma, and it (Brahma's one day) has 14 Manus.
be called Nilakantha. Again, Chapter 8, Part 2 of the Visnu Purana has the
"And Kalaku^a arose like burning all the worlds.
fire following to say about Kalamana.
The smell of it sent the worlds into a swoon.
three Fifteen nimisas make one Kastha, thirty Kasthas one
At the request of Brahma Siva swallowed the poison to Kala, thirty Kalas one muhurta and thirty rnuhurtas
save the world from absolute destruction. And, he one day and night. Day is long or short according to
(Siva) retained it in his throat". (Adi Parva, Chap- the length or shortness of parts of the day, like morning,
ter 18). noon and evening. Despite the above variation evening
KALAMANA. (Calculating time) In ancient days . or dusk time is always (2 nazhikas) the same. The
in India tune was calculated in the following three muhurtas from the sun's ardhodaya (when half
manner. of the sun has arisen ) is called Pratahkala, (morning)
Time taken (needed) to and it is l/5th of day time. The three muhurtas
pierce a leaf with a following are known as sarhgava. Madhyahna (noon)
needle Alpakala is the three muhurtas after samgava. The time after
30 Alpakalas 1 Truti madhyahna is aparahna
( afternoon) Aparahna lasts
.
the Pitrs) and two Paksas one month. Two solar months consti-
2 Masas (months) 1 Rtu. tute a Rtu (season) three rtus one ayana and two
,
6 Rtus 1
year for men (A day for ayanas one year. Since there are four kinds of months,
the Devas) i.e. Saura, Savana, Candra and Naksatra, years are
300 Years (Men's) 1
Divyavarsa (Divine year) considered to be of five different kinds. The first is called
4800 Divyavarsas 1
Krtayuga Samvatsara; the second parivatsara; the third idvatsara;
3600 Divyavarsas 1
Tretayuga the fourth, anuvatsara and the fifth, vatsara. 'This
2400 Divyavarsas 1
Dvaparayuga period of five years is called a yuga. In a yuga of five
1200 Divyavarsas 1
Kaliyuga years there are 60 saura months. 61 slvana months,
12000 Divyavarsas 1
Caturyuga 62 Candra months and 67 naksatra months. At the
71 Caturyugas 1 Manvantara beginning of the sixth year the sun and moon meet in
14 Manvantaras 1
Pralaya (Kalpa) the same house and that period of five years also is
1
Pralaya Brahma's one day. called yuga. (Srldhariyam).
(Bhagavata Trtiya KALAMRA. See under BHADRASALA.
skandha) KALAMUKHA (S) A hybrid race born from the
7 jNazhikas (Ghatikas) 1 Yama union of men and Raksasas. Sahadeva defeated the
4 Yamas 1
day time Kalamukhas also during his conquest of the southern
8 Yamas 1
day (day and night) .
region. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 31, Verse 67) .
(Devi Bhagavata, 9th Skandha). KALANEMI I. A great Asura. In later years he was
The 'Ka.lama.na' according to the Visnu Purana born as Karhsa, the son of Ugrasena. (See under
differs in certain respects from the calculations Karhsa )
given .
above. Chapter 3, Part 1 of Visnu Purana says : KALANEMI II. A brahmin from Malava. His father
KALANEMI III 373 KALI I
was called Yajnasena. (Kathasaritsagara, Kathamukha- here is as good as making a gift of eleven cows. (Vana
lambaka) .
Parva, Chapter 85) .
KALANEMI III. A Raksasa. During the Rama- KALATOYAKA. An urban region in ancient India.
Ravana war, when Laksmana swooned, Hanuman (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9) .
started for Drona mountain for medicine. Ravana KALAVATI I. A daughter of the King of Kasi.
deputed Kiilanemi to obstruct the path of Hanuman. This gem of a woman worshipped the sage Durvasas
Well acquainted with the trickeries of the Raksasas Hanu- and became a saint by obtaining the Saiva Pancaksara
man killed Kalanemi who appeared before him disguis- (five letters pertaining to Siva Sivaya namah) . After-
ed as a sage. (Adhyatma Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda wards Dasarha, King of Mathura, married her. The
Canto 67) .
King felt very hot whenever he approached her and
KALANIRIVAYA. (Calculating time). See under he questioned her about it. She said she had received
Kalamana. the Pancaksara Mantra even from childhood and
KALANJARAGIRI. A famous mountain at Medhavika sinners would feel the heat if they touched her. The
tirtha. He who bathes in Vedlhrada on this mountain King was greatly disappointed and Kalavati took him
will get the benefits of gifting away 1000 cows. (Anu- to Sage Garga to redeem him from all his sins. The
sasana Parva, Chapter 25). Spread on the four sides of sage dipped the King in the river Kalindi and when
mount Mahameru are twenty mountains. They are : the King rose up all his sins flew away from his body as
Kuraiiga, Karaga, Kusumbha, Vikaiikata, Trikuta, tiny birds. The King reaching the palace, embraced
Sisira, Patanga, Rucaka, Nila, Nisadha, Sltivasa, Kalavati and then he felt her body very cool and
Kapila, Sankha, Vaidurya, Carudhi, Harhsa, Rsabha, pleasant. They got a son also. (Pancaksaramahatmya,
Niiga, Kalanjara and Narada. (Devi Bhagavata, 8th Siva Purana) .
KALAPARVATA I. A mountain on the sea coast near KALAYAVANA. A powerful Asura born out of the
Lanka. (Vana Parva, Chapter 277) .
effulgence of Gargacarya. He was killed by Sri Krsna.
KALAPARVATA II. A mountain seen by Arjuna on (See under Krsna).
his way to Siva with Sri Krsna during their dream- KALEHIKA. A female attendant of Skandadeva.
journey. (Drona Parva, Chapter 80) .
(Salya Parva, Chapter 46) .
KALAPATHA. A son of Visvamitra. He was a scholar KALEYA (S) A set of Asuras born to the great sage
.
in philosophy and a Brahmavadl. (Anusasana Parva, Kasyapa of his wife Kala. Some scholars hold the view
Chapter 4) . that the Kalakeyas and the Kaleyas are one and the
KALAPI&GAI. A holy place. (Sloka 43, Chapter 25, same. Kaleyas destroyed the Asramas of sages like Va-
Anusasana Parva) .
sistha, Cyavana and Bharadvaja. (Vana Parva, Chap-
KALAPI&GA II. A kind of bird. See under Kapin- ter 102). Devas killed some of the Kaleyas; the others
jala. ran away to Pa.ta.la.
KALAPRSTHA. A serpent. It was with this
serpent KALI I. Incarnation of sin, the Sin-god.
that the hair on the necks of horses attached to the 1) Birth. Kasyapaprajapati, son of Brahma, begot of
chariot of Siva at the burning of the Tripuras, was his wife Muni sixteen sons and Kali was the fifteenth
tied. (Karna Parva, Chapter 34) . son. He was a deva-gandharva. The other sons of
KALARATRI. The Devata presiding over the night on Kasyapa were: Bhimasena, Ugrasena, Suparna, Varuna
the eve of death. The fierce aspect of the Devata is Dhrtarastra, Gopati, Suvarcas, Satyavak, Arkaparna,
described in the Mahabharata as follows :
Prayuta, Visruta, Citraratha, Salisiras, Parjanya and
Coal-black in colour, with swollen mouth and Narada. (4Slokasfrom verse 43, Chapter 65, Adi
eyes
and wearing red garlands and clothings thus appeared Parva) .
3) Kali, Lord of Kaliyuga. There are fourteen Man- be short-lived and the stature of the people also will
vantaras during the life of Brahma. The life time of a diminish. Beastly type of men will be on the increase.
Mann is a Manvantara. This present period is the Taste and smell will vanish. Women will be 'Mukhe-
seventh Manvantara. In each Manvantara there are bhagas'. Men will sell rice and brahmanas, the Vedas.
four yugas, Krta, Treta, Dvapara and Kali. Krtayuga .Women will sell their vaginas. The yield of milk from
consists of 1 7,28000 years, Tretayuga consists of 12,- cows will decrease. Flowers and fruits will become less.
96000 years, Dviiparayuga 8,64000 years and Kaliyuga Crows will be on the increase. Brahmanas would become
4,32,000 years. The Christian era started in the Kali beggars. Sages will be merchants. Brahmanas would
era 3102 and after another 4,26926 years- Kaliyuga will without any reason grow hairs and nails. None will
come to an end and the present .universe will enter observe the four asramas correctly. Students will defile
the eighth Manvantara. From the beginning of the the bed of their preceptors. Rains will be in and out of
Kaliyuga acts of sin predominate and Kali, sin-god, season. Trees and plants will refuse to grow in many
will lord over the world. places. There will be murder of people everywhere.
Kali was born on the day Sri Krsna ascended heaven. Merchants will be cheats and they will use false mea-
When Bhagavan Mukunda abandoned his body and sures. Righteous persons will decrease and sinners will
went to his place in Vaikundia. Kali came into being increase. Girls eight years will become
of seven or
binding all on earth. (Sloka 66, Chapter 1, Bhagavata pregnant and boys become fathers. Young men at
will
Mahatmya). the age of sixteen would be grey-haired. Old men will
4) Kali and Nala. Kali and Dvapara were going to continue practising the habits of young men. Wives
the Svayamvara of Damayanti when they met Indra will lie with their servants. Wives will be prostitutes
and others returning from the Svayamvara. They told even while their husbands are alive. People will die in
Kali and Dvapara that Damayanti was married to Nala. lots of hunger." (Chapter 188. Vana Parva).
Kali and Dvapara felt it an outrage that Damayanti 6) Kaliyugatirtha. The greatest tirtha of Kaliyuga is
should have married a man of the earth and not a deva. the river Ganga. (Chapter 85, Vana Parva) .
Kali decided that Nala should be sent out of his 7 ) Duryodhana was the incarnation of Kali and Sakuni, that
country and his matrimonial life made most unhappy. of Dvapara. (Chapter 31, Asrama Parva).
Dvapara consented to be his accomplice in this attempt. KALI II. A
synonym of Surya. (Sloka 20, Chapter 3,
Kali followed Nala waiting for an opportunity to enter Vana Parva) .
ther to a game of dice putting that bullock as a wager. KALI II. An aspect or form of Parvatl. (See under
Puskara accepted the challenge. Nala wagered and lost ParvatI) .
all hismovable and immovable possessions and went to KALIDASA. The greatest poet and dramatist in Sans-
the forests with Damayanti. Nala, prompted by Kali, krit. Somescholars opine that Kalidasa flourished in
abandoned Damayanti in the forests and went his way. the 8th Century B.C. while others place his date upto
Damayanti cursed Kali. the period llth Century A.D. At any rate most of the
It was at this time that the great serpent Karkotaka was scholars consider the period between 1st Century B.C.
entrapped in a wild fire. Nala saved him from the fire and 5th Century A.D. as the most probable date of
but in return the cobra bit him turning Nala into one the great poet. Some of the main theories in this regard
of blue hue and said "Oh Nala, let Kali who cheat- are as follows;
ed you and is now inside your body suffer with the (1) Eighth century B.C. Towards the close of Raghu-
poison I have injected into your body." varhs a Mahakavya Kalidasa has referred to the son of
Nala roamed about and reached Ayodhya and there King Agnimitra. Therefore the poet must have lived in
became the charioteer of Rtuparna, King of Ayodhya. the 8th Century B.C. This is the view of the scholar
When Rtuparna went to the second marriage of Hippolyte Fanche.
Damayanti to Vidarbha, Nala went with him as his (2) Century B.C.
Second According to Dr. Kunjan
charioteer. On the way Nala taught Rtuparna the Raja Kalidusa lived in the second Century B.C., the
science of Asvahrdaya and Rtuparna in return
-
reasons for the belief being as follows. The poet was a
taught him the science of Aksahrdaya. When Nala contemporary of King Agnimitra of the Suhga dynasty.
learnt the secret of Aksahrdaya he vomited all the poison This Agnimitra is eulogised in Kalidasa's Malavikagni-
inside him and Kali left him. Nala was about to curse mitra. Agnimitra is referred to in the Bharatavakya
Kali but refrained from it at the request of Kali. At ( epilogue)
of the drama also.
once Kali climbed on a Tanni tree (Beleric Myro- (3) First Century B.C. The traditional belief is that
balan) and went down from the tree when Nala left Kalidasa was a member in the assembly of poets and
the place. Tanni is from that day onwards considered scholars of the court of emperor Vikramaditya, who
a cursed tree. (Chapter 58, Vana Parva) . started the Vikrama era in B.C. 56.
5) The world in Kaliyuga. The celebrated sage Mar- Dhanvantariksapanakamarasimha-Sanku
kandeya had prophesied about the happenings in Kali- Vetala-Bhatta-Ghatakarpara-Kalidasah /
yuga thus: In Kaliyuga all will be dishonest. Charity Khyato Varahamihiro nrpateh sabhayarh
and Sacrifices will be only for a name. Brahmanas Ratnani vai vararucir nava vikramasya.
would do the duties of Sudras. Sudras will become 4) Fifth Century A.D. According to Dr. Keith, Kali-
prosperous. There will be sinners as kings. People will dasa lived in the fifth Century A.D. One Candra-
KALIKA 375 KALI&GA (M)
many ways. Raghuvamsa and Kumarasambhava are One who drinks its water will be released from all sins.
his two mahakavyas. He had also written three dramas, (Adi Parva, Chapter 139, Verse 19).
Abhijfianah'akuntala, Vikramorvasiya and Malavikagni- (ii) The Pandavas, during their life in exile in the
mitra and a lyric called Rtusamhara. He wrote also a forest drank Yamuna water, got- over their weariness
world-famous poem called Meghasandesa. and continued their sojourn. (Vana Parva, Chapter 5,
KALIKA. A female attendant of Skanda. (Salya Parva, Verse 2).
Chapter 46, Verse 14). (iii) Sahadeva, son of Smjaya, gave Agni Deva 1000
KALIKA. One of the attendants given to Skanda by golden emblems on the banks of the Yamuna. (Vana
Parva Chapter 90, Verse 7).
Pusan, the other being Panitaka. (Salya Parva, Chap-
(iv) Bharata performed thirty-three ASvamedhas on
ter'45, Verse 43) .
KALIKASRAMA. A holy place. If one bathes and On yet another he conducted three hun-
occasion
spends three nights here one will be released from the dred Asvamedhas. (Santi Parva, Chapter 29).
sorrows of life and death. (Anusasana Parva, Chap-
(v) Ambarlsa, the son of Nabhaga conducted a yajna
ter 25) .
on the planes of Kalindl. (Vana Parva, Chapter 129).
KALIKEYA. A son of King Subala. He was killed by (vi ) Agastya the great sage performed penance on the
Abhimanyu. (Drona Parva, Chapter 49). planes of Kalindl. (Vana Parva, Chapter 161).
KALINDl (YAMUNA). (vii) King Santanu conducted seven yajnas on the
1
)
General. Yamuna is one of the holy
Kalindl alias banks of the Kalindi. (Vana Parva, Chapter 162).
rivers in India. The
presiding deity of the river is (viii) The colour of Kalindi is black. Kama (Cupid)
Kalindidevi. Kalindl, the daughter of the sun has her shot arrows of flower at Siva, who was lamenting
source in Kalinda mountain, and hence the name over the death of Sati, and he (Siva) thus excited to a
Kalindl for the river. Kalindl joins the Gariga at condition of insanity jumped into Kalindl with
Prayaga, and this confluence of the two rivers is called the result that its water turned black in colour.
Sangama, which is a sacred place. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 6 and also see under
2) Gave way for Sri Krsna, As soon as Krsna was born Yamuna) .
Vasudeva stealthily removed the child to Ambadi. Due KALINDlDVlPA. It was on this island that VySsa was
to heavy rains the Kalindl was overflowing, and Vasu- born as the result of the intercourse between Paraiara
deva begged Kalindl for a passage, and the river gave and Satyavati. (Adi Parva, Chapter 60) .
way for Vasudeva to take Krsna to Ambadi. (Bhaga- KALIistGA I. Rtayu, King of Kaliiiga was present at
vata 10th Skandha). the svayarhvara of Draupadi. (Sloka 13, Chapter 185
3) Balabhadra dragged Kalindl. Balabhadrarama once Adi Parva) Rukmi played a game of dice with
.
stayed in Ambadi for two months. One day he was Balabhadra with the help of Kalinga (for details see
picnicking on the banks of Kalindl with the Gopis. under Rukmi) The sage Dirghatamas begot a son of
.
Under the influence of liquor he desired to pla'y with the wife of the aged and senile Kalinga and the boy
his companions in the waters of Kalindl. He called was named Kaksivan (Sukta 125, Anuvaka 18, Man-
Kalindl to his side, but the chaste Kalindl refused to dala 1, Rgveda).
oblige him. So he dragged her by his plough hooking KALIJNIGA II. A warrior of the god Skandha. (M.B.
her to it. In great fear Kalindl saluted him, and he
Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 64).
enjoyed with the gopis for some time on its waters. A
1 Oth
Skandha)
KALI&GA III. Daitya who
lived in Krtayuga. In
( Bhagavata,
.
he approached her. She told Arjuna that the object KALIKIGA(M) (KALI&GA). An ancient place in the
of her penance was to get Krsna as husband, and when south of Bharata.
KALI&GADATTA 376 KALPA III
Other details. attack him. Kaliya vomited blood and saluted Krsna.
His wives and children also saluted the Lord. Krsna
(
1
) Arjuna visited this place while he was on a pilgrim-
sent all of them away to Ramanaka island assuring
age. (Sloka 9, Chapter 214, Adi Parva) .
(2) Kalinga was also included in the countries conquer- Kaliya that Garuda would not attack him on seeing the
ed by Sahadeva while he was on his victory march. marks of his (Krsna 's) feet on Kaliya. Thus did
(Chapter 31, Sabha Parva) . Kaliya and his family shift their residence to Rama-
naka island. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha).
(3) People from Kaliriga presented Yudhisthira with
gifts for the Rajasuya. (Sloka 18, Chapter 52. Sabha
KALIYUGA. See under Manvantara.
Parva) .
KALKI. The tenth avatara (incarnation) of Maha-
was on a visnu. The ten avataras are called Dasavataras.
(4) Yudhisthira visited Kalinga while he
Kalki is the last of them. Agni Purana, Chapter 16
pilgrimage. (Sloka 4, Chapter 114, Vana Parva).
(5) Kama conquered Kalinga
while he was on a says as follows about the incarnation of Kalki :
naga, Purananaga etc. and from them were born all the name Visnuyasas, in the village called Sambhala.
kinds of nagas on earth. (Adi Parva, Chapter 35) .
Visnuyasas will become famous under the name Kalki.
Kaliya possessed one thousand heads. (Bhagavata, He will be the priest of Yajnavalkya. He will create arms
10th Skandha). and soldiers by his will itself and destroy the wicked.
2) Kaliya taok his abode in Kalindi. Vinata and Kadru With that Krtayuga will commence.
were wives of Kasyapa. The former was the mother There is difference of opinion as to whether Kalki's
of Garuda and the latter of the nagas. In a wager incarnation has passed or is yet to come. But in the
Vinata was defeated and had to become the slave of Kalki has not
light of the statements in the Puranas,
Kadru. Garuda brought Amrta from Devaloka and yet come. Mahabharata, Vana Parva, says that
redeemed his mother from slavery. Yet Garuda and Kaliyuga extends over a period of 4, 32, 000 years.
the nagas continued to be enemies, Garuda killing and now
It is only a over 5,000 years since it began.
little
eating nagas whenever he got a chance for it. At last the Still, more than 900 years have to pass before
4, 26,
nagas entered into an understanding with Garuda the end of Kaliyuga. Therefore lakhs of years have
agreeing to give him the ha vis (offering) which they still to pass before the incarnation of Kalki.
got on certain days, and thus Garuda stopped eating KALMASA&GHRI. See under the word KALMASA-
the nagas. But Kaliya did not subscribe to the above PADA.
agreement he treated O^ruda with contempt. But, in
; KALMASAPADA. (KALMASASIGHRI, MITRASAHA,
an encounter with Garuda Kaliya was put to so much SAUDASA) A famous king of the Iksvaku dynasty.
.
of hardships that he, along with his family, shifted his He wandered about in the forest as a Raksasa for twelve
residence to a particular sector in Kalindi. '
years.
3) Admission denied to Garuda. Owing to the curse of 1 ) Genealogy. From Visnu were descended in the
a sage called Saubhari, who was performing penance on following order Brahma Marlci Kasyapa Vivas-
the banks of Kalindi, that Garuda would die broken- van Vaivasvata Manu Iksvaku Vikuksi Sasada
headed if he entered Kalindi, it was a prohibited area Puranjaya Kakutstha Anenas Prthulava Prasena-
to Garuda. jit Yuvanasva Mandhata Purukutsa Trasadasyu
4) Suppression of Kaliya. Owing to the virulent poison Anaranya AryaSva Vasumanas Sutanva Trayy-
of Kaliya .the waters of Kalindi became poisonous and aruna Satyavrata (Trisaiiku) Hariscandra Rohi-
the trees on its banks dried up. Once, while Krsna tava Harita Cuiicu Sudeva: Bharuka Bahuka
and his companions, the Gopalas came to the banks of Sagara Asamafijasa Arhsuman Bhaglratha Srutana-
the river grazing their cows. The Gopalas drank water bha Sindhudvipa Ayutayus Rtuparna Sarvakama
from the river a'nd fell down dead. Then Krsna jump- Sudasa (Sudhasana) Mitrasaha (Kalmasapada).
ed into the river from the top of a tree on its bank and 2) Name. His actual name was Mitrasaha. Since he
danced upon the hoods of Kaliya who had rushed to was the son of Sudasa, he was called Saudasa also.
KALMASAPADA 377 KALMASAPADA
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 78). Kalmasarighri he cooked some human flesh and offered it as food for
and Kalmasapada were names which he got as a result Vasistha. The enraged sage cursed the King to become
of Vasistha's curse. a man-eating Raksasa who would roam about for twelve
3) Milrasaha became a Raksasa. Mitrasaha was a re- years in the woods. Thus Mitrasaha became a Raksasa.
puted and glorious king belonging to the solar dynasty (Siva Purana, Sivaratri Mahatmya) .
of kings who ruled over Ayodhya. He had a queen 7) How Mitrasaha got the name "Kalmasapada." Mitra-
named Madayantl. While they were leading a happy saha became very angry whan he was cursed by
and enviable married life, Mitrasaha was forced to Vasistha. He decided to pay back in the same coin by
lead the life of a Raksasa in the forest for a period of cursing Vasistha also. He took water in his hand and
12 ye"aTs, as the result of a curse. The story of this was about to throw it down with the words of curse.
curse is given in different Puranas in different versions But his queen Madayantl stopped him. She reminded
and they are given below; him that it was not right to curse a Brahmana and
4) Sakti Cursed Mitrasaha. One day Mitrasaha went to requested him to sprinkle that water on his own feet.
the forest for hunting. Visvamitra wished to get this The King's anger cooled down and he sprinkled the
mighty King as his disciple. While the King was water on his own feet. Since his feet were polluted by
passing through the forest, he saw Sakti, Vasistha's son, the water of sin Mitrasaha came to be called "Kalma-
coming towards him. The King was a Ksatriya and sapada", and Kalmasanghri" from that day. (Siva
Sakti was a Brahmana. They were faced with the Purana, Sivaratri Mahatmya) .
problem of whether the Ksatriya should make way for 8) Kalmasapada 's life as Raksasa. The curse-ridden
the Brahmana or vice versa. Neither of them made way
Kanmasapada began to look upon Vasistha and his
for the other. At last, Mitrasaha struck Sakti with his sons with inveterate hatred. He roamed the country-
whip. In his anger Sakti cursed Mitrasaha that he sides and forests in the form of a Raksasa. He started
should become a Raksasa and roam about in the forest
man-eating by feeding upon Sakti, the eldest son of
for 16 years.Visvamitra who was standing nearby at Vasistha. After that he ate all the remaining 99 sons
the time introduced a devil into the body of the King of Vasistha. Distreseed at the loss of his children,
and from that day Mitrasaha wandered about in the Vasistha left his Asrama, bent on committing suicide.
forest in the form of a Raksasa. (M.B. Adi Parva, He tied hisVwn hands and feet securely with a rope and
Chapter 176). jumped into the river to drown himself. This attempt,
5) Vasislh Mitrasaha once went to hunt
cursed Mitrasaha. like several other attempts to commit suicide, failed
While hunting he came across two tiger
in the forest. and he did not die. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 177).
cubs. Actually, they were two Raksasas in disguise. In the Mahabharata there is a story which says that
The King who was unaware of it, killed one of them once Uttanka, a disciple of the sage Gautama went to
with an arrow. The other cub suddenly assumed his beg the Kundalas (ear ornaments) worn by Kanmasa-
own form as a Raksasa and after giving Mitrasaha a pada's (Saudasa's) queen, for the sake of Gautama's
warning that he would take revenge on him at the wife. (For details, see under the word "Uttanka") .
curse. So he requested Vasistha to beget children by he became a victim to the disease of leprosy. (Panca-
her. Accordingly MadayantI became pregnant by virhsaBrahmanam).
Vasistha. But she did not deliver the child even after KALYAl^I. A female follower of Skandadeva. (M.B.
twelve years. At last she hit the embryo in her womb Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 6) .
with a stone and the child was born. Since he was born K MA
T
I. God of beauty in Indian mythology.
with the help of a stone (A-'man), the child was named 1) General.
A Prajapati named Dharma was born
"A.'maka". (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 167). from the right breast of Brahma. Dharma was very
KALMASI. A river. It was while travelling by the side handsome. Three sons, Sama, Kama and Harsa who
of this river, that King Drupada reached a Brahmana were exceedingly handsome, were born to him. Of
village where he happened to meet Upayaja. (M.B. them, Karra became the god of beauty. His wife was
Adi Parva. Chapter 166). Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Rati. Sama became the husband of Priipti. Harsa had
Chapter 78, Verse 16 says that it was on the bank of Nanda for his wife. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 66,
this river that the sage Bhrgu blessed Yudhisthira. Verses 3 1-33).
(Modern scholars believe that Kanmasi. is the same as
In Kalika Purana we see another story about Kama's
the present river Yamuna) .
birth. Brahma created ten Prajapatis. After that, the
KALODAKA. A sacred place. The sin of causing woman Sandhya was created. At the very moment of
abortion of those who bathe in the tirtha here will be her birth, Brahma and the Prajapatis were irresistibly
washed away. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse fascinated by her charm and they sprang up from
60 and Santi Parva, Chapter 152, Verse 12) .
their seats. All their thoughts converged on the same
KALPA I. A son of Dhruva. See under DHRUVA. object. At this time a handsome youth emerged
from .
KALPA II. A period of one thousand Yugas or fourteen Brahma's mind with a floral bow in his hands.
Manvantaras. See under MANVANTARA. Immediately after his birth, he asked Brahma "Karh
KALPA III. The customary proceedings of Yagas. darpayami" (Whom should I make proud ?) Brahma
These proceedings are made in the form of Sutras. The replied Let the minds of living beings be the aim of
Sutras describe how the Brahmanas and mantras are your arrows". He suggested Rati the daughter of
to be used. For each Sarhhita there are separate Daksa, to be Kama's wife. Since he stirred the mind
Srauta Sutras. The Srauta Sutras for Rgveda Sarhhita of Brahma, he got the name "MANMATHA",
and
are Asvalayana, Sarhkhayana and Saunaka. Those for since he was extremely attractive in appearance he
Samaveda are MaSaka, Latyayana and Drahyayana. came to be called "KAMA". (For further details, see
Those for Krsna Yajurveda are Apastamba Bauddha-_ under "RATI."
2) How Kdmadeva got the name "KANDARPA"
yana, Satyasadha, Hiranyake^J, Manava, Bharadvaja, As soon .
Vadhula, Vaikhanasa, Laugaksi, Maitra, Katha and as Kama was born, he went to Brahma and asked him
Varaha. For Suklayajurveda it is Katyayana Srauta "Karh darpayami ?" (Whom should I mak proud ?).
Sutra. For Atharvaveda it is Kausika Srauta Sutra. Therefore he got the name "KANDARPA". (Katha-
All these Sutras contain only brief symbolic words and saritsagara) .
are difficult to understand without explanation. Kama. Once Brahma was meditating
3) Brahma cursed
.
band to life. Siva was pleased and said that Rati would KAMA II. An Agni who was the son of Svahadevl.
be born in the world and Kama would take birth as Mahabharata, Vana Parva. Chapter 219, Verse 23 says
her son." (Kathasaritsagara). was of inimitable beauty.
that this agni
According to Siva's blessing Rati was born in the world KAMA Another name for Paramesvara. (M.B.
III.
under the name of Mayavatl. She became the kitchen-
AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 17, Verse 42) .
fisherman who caught it presented it to Sambara. When KAMADEVA. See under Kama.
Sambara cut it open, he saw a lovely baby inside the KAMADHENU. (SURABHI NANDINl) .
fish. He entrusted the child to Mayavatl to be brought 1) General. She is the first mother of cattle. She is a
goddess with marvellous powers and attainments who
up.
At this stage, the sage Narada happened to come there gives milk whenever needed by gods and sages. The
and he explained to Mayavatl in secret, that the baby Puranas declare that all the cattle in the world today
are descended from Kamadhenu.
was Kamadeva and she was Rati. From that time, she
2) Three different names. This sacred cow is sometimes
brought up the child with great affection and tenderness.
called "Kamadhenu", at other times, "Surabhi" and
As years passed and Kama grew up into a youth,
also "Nandini". They are not three different cows, as
Mayavatl began to make amorous advances towards some people suppose. See Bhasa Bharata, Aranya Parva
him. Looking upon her with regard due to a mother,
Kama was displeased with these advances. Then she told Chapter 9, Verses 7 and 17. There Surabhi and Kama-
him what Narada had disclosed to her about their rela- dhenu are names used for referring to the same cow.
tions in the past life. She advised him to kill Sambara Again, in the Bhasa Bharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 99,
and to leave the place for Dvaraka as soon as possible. Verse 14, we find the name Nandini applied to Kama-
dhenu. Thus we may conclude that Kamadhenu had
As advised by her, Kama killed Sambara and both he
two other names, viz. Surabhi and Nandini. But since
and Mayavatl went to Dvaraka in a Vimana and paid
the term "Surabhirgavi" occurs in Amarakosa, it follows
their respects to their parents there. In the presence of a
that even ordinary cows may be called "Surabhi"'
largenumber of sages, Kama was christened "Prad- In the Puranas Surabhi is des-
3) Birth and Jamily.
yumna". Aniruddha, the husband of Usa, was the son of cribed variously as Daksa's daughter, Kasyapa's wife,
Pradyumna. Besides Aniruddha, Pradyumna had a
1 Kasyapa's daughter, etc. Although at first sight there
daughter Trsa. may appear some discrepancy in these statements, in
6) Other names of Kama. The following names the light of them we may clearly arrive at the ancestry
have been used for Kama in the Puranas Madana, :
and birth of Surabhi. Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya
Manmatha, Mara, Pradyumna, Minaketana, Kandarpa, Kanda, 14th Sarga says that Kasyapa, the son of Marici
Darpaka, Ananga, Kama, Pancasara, Sambarari, and the grandson of Brahma married Daksa Prajapati's
Manasija, Kusumesu, Ananyaja, Puspadhanva, Rati- daughters Aditi, Dili, Danu, Kalika, Tamra, Krodha-
-
pati, Makaradhvaja, Atmabhu, Iraja, Isma, Kiiikira, vasa, Manu and Anala. From verses 20 and 21 in the
Abhirupa, Grdhukalakeli, Kanjana, Ramana, DIpaka, same Sarga we understand that Surabhi was the daugh-
Madhudipa, Samantaka, Muhira, Rupastra, Varna, ter of Krodhavas a, Daksa's daughter, by Kasyapa. In
Puspaketana. Makaraketu, Ratinayaka, Ragavrnta, the same Sarga we find that two daughters, Rohim and
Samsaraguru, Gadayitnu, Mapatya, Mayl. Gandharvi were born to this Surabhi and from Rohini
7) Kama's weapons. Kama has a bow made of sugar- were born all the cows in the world that we see today
i . From Kathasaritsagara we find that Udayana and Vasavadatta were the rebirths of Kama and Rati.
KAMADHENU 380 KAMADHENU
and from Gandharvl were born all the horses. It was Gopas by Sri Krsna. (Devi Bhagavata, 9th Skandha).
by her own father KaSyapa himself that Surabhi's off- Like this, several Kamadhenus are seen in the Puranas.
springs were born. Therefore, the reference to Surabhi Therefore there is no discrepancy or contradiction in
as the wife of Kasyapa may also be justified." Since statements declaring that there were many Kamadhenus
Krodhavasa, the daughter of Daksa was the mother of in different As"ramas. But since Kamadhenu had
Surabhi, actually Surabhi was the grand-daughter of achieved divine powers by Brahma's grace, it is but rea-
Daksa, But in a broad sense, a grand-daughter may be sonable to believe that the different Kamadhenus are
considered as a daughter. So the reference to Surabhi really the different forms of the original Kamadhenu,
in Bhasa Bharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse the daughter of Kasyapa.
28 as Daksa's daughter is correct in that sense. 6) Theft of Kdmadhenu by Satyavrata (Trisa/iku). Satya-
4) How Kdmadhenu Received Divine Powers. Long ago Aditi, vrata (Trisanku) was the son of Aruna, a King of the
wife of Kasyapa, conceived Mahavisnu in her womb Iksvaku dynasty. He was a vicious and immoral fellow.
and began an austere penance standing on one leg. At Once he abducted a Brahmana girl just at the time of
that time Surabhi went to Kailasa and offered worship her marriage in her bridal dress. Enraged at this his
to Brahma for ten thousand years. The gods who were father drove him away from his palace. Satyavrata
pleased, came to Surabhi taking Brahma with them. wandered about aimlessly in the country arid in the
Brahma said to her: 'Surabhi I have made you a forests.
goddess. You are now above the three worlds Heaven Soon after this there was a famine in the land. Human
Earth and Hell. .Your world, "Goloka" will become beings and animals began to die of starvation. At that
famous. All people will worship you and the cows who time Visvamitra was performing penance in the forest
are your offspring." after leaving behind his wife and children in the country.
From that day on which Brahma blessed her, Surabhi When he saw that the whole family was in danger of
became a goddess with marvellous spiritual powers. death by starvation, he decided to make some money
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 83). by selling one of the sons, in order to save the lives of
5) More than one fCdmadhenu? There are references to the rest of the family. Satyavrata who came to know of
several Kamadhenus in the Puranas. There is one Kama- this, met Visvamitra and dissuaded him from selling
dhenu in Vasistha's Asrama. At Varuna's yaga we see his son. He promised to supply some flesh every day to
another Kamadhenu. There is no ground for believing the family by hunting animals in the forest and keeping
that there is only one Kamadhenu and that it was the flesh suspended from the branch of a near-by tree.
borrowed by each Deva in turn for some particular Accordingly, he began leaving the flesh regularly hang-
occasion. It is possible that there were many Kama- ing from the branch of the tree. One day he
dhenus in the family of Kamadhenu and they were could not get anyflesh by hunting. That night he went
owned by different Devas. Moreover it is stated that asrama and stole Kamadhenu. He killed
to Vasistha's
several Kamadhenus take their origin from sources the cow and ate some of its flesh. The rest he gave to
other than the family of Kasyapa. One of them is from Visvamitra's family.
the ocean of milk. In Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chap- The next morning when Vasistha woke up, he did not
ter 18, we find that when the Devas and Asuras churned see his cow. But he came to know of the whole affair by
the ocean of milk, along with many other precious his intuition. In his fury he cursed Satyavrata and said
things, Kamadhenu also came up to the surface. that the world would brand him with the name "TriSan-
There is a reference to another Kamadhenu in Bhasa ku" because he had committed three heinous sins viz. kill-
Bharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 102, There, it is said, ing of cows, abducting another man's wife and incurring
Brahma who got Amrta swallowed it beyond limit in his father's displeasure. After that Vasistha restored
his avidity and when he vomited, a Kamadhenu came Kamadhenu to life. (Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha) .
out from his mouth. That Kamadhenu is said to be 7) Visvamitra attacked Kdmadhenu. Once while Visva-
living in the world known as Rasatala. The above- mitra was a ruling King, he went into a forest to hunt.
mentioned passage also says that there are four other In the course of his rambles through the forest, he hap-
Kamadhenus living on the four sides of the Kamadhenu pened to arrive at Vasistha's Asrama with his retinue.
which lives in Rasatala. They are Saurabhi in the east Vasistha called Kamadhenu and ordered her to provide
Harhsika in the south, Subhadra in the west and Dhenu food for Visvamitra and his party. Kamadhenu, by her
in the north. divine powers, prepared food within a short time and
The next Kamadhenu is the one which was born from gave them a sumptuous meal; Visvamitra was greatly
the side of Sri Krsna. Once Sri Krsna and his consort pleased with this amazing feat of Kamadhenu and he
Radha were amusing themselves by amorous pleasures asked Vasisdia to give her to him. He even offered to
in a remote and secluded place. When they were tired give crores of cows in return for her. But Vasistha
they wished to drink some milk. At that time, Sri Krsna refused to comply with his request. Then Visvamitra
created by his will power, the cow Surabhi and the tried to seize and take her away by force.
calf Manoratha, from the left side of his body. Sri- At once Kamadhenu assumed the form of a terrible
daman milked that cow into a new earthen pot and monster of destruction. From the different parts of her
when Sri Krsna was drinking it, the pot fell down and body emerged fierce warriors who clashed with Visva-
the milk was spilt all over the floor. The milk which mitra's followers. All the arrows shot by Visvamitra
spread over an area of 100 yojanas, became a lake were caught by Vasistha with his hand. In the end
called "Kslrasagara" for Radha and her maids to bathe Visvamitra admitted that the might of a Brahmana is
and enjoy water-sports. Numerous cows were born superior to the might of a Ksatriya. (Vasistha was a
from the pores of Surabhi and they were presented to the Brahmana and Visvamitra a Ksatriya). Visvamitra,
2. In Vifi.m Purana, Part I, Chapter 15, Surabhi is described as Kasyapa's wife.
KAMALA I 381 K.AMPILYA
soon gave up his kingly duties and began penance, which the important ones are SarasvatI Antadi and
thus turning himself into a "Rajarsi" (Royal saint). Kanci Purana. It is said that unintelligent children of
(Valmiki Ramayana, Bfila Kanda, 52nd Sarga M.B. ;
Tamil nadu are even now given sand from the burial
Salya Parva, Chapter 40 M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter
;
ground of Kambar to induce intelligence into them.
175). The ( r) suffix in Kambar is plural denoting respect.
8) Kdmadhenu was attacked by the Asia Vasus. ( See under (See under 'Bhadrakali') .
the word "Astavasus", Para 2). KAMBOJA I. Sudaksina, the King of the country,
9) Kdmadhenu cried. (See under the word "Indra", Kamboja. He was present at Draupadl's svayaihvara.
Para 16). In Mahabharata, Karna Parva, Chapter 156 we read
10) Kdmadhenu revived King Baka. (See under the word that his younger brother was killed by Arjuna. The
"Gautama") .
Kings of Kamboja were all known as Kambojas. Long
11) Other details. ago, this country was ruled by a King named Kamboja.
(i) Kamadheuu gave birth to Ajasa, Ekapat, Ahir- In Mahabharata, Sand Parva, Chapter 166, Verse 77,
budhnya, Tvasta and Rudra. Visvarupa was the son of we see that this Kamboja was given a sword by the
Tvasta. (Agni Purana, Chapter 18). King Dhundhumara. Perhaps it was from this King
(ii) Kamadhenu said that she had no part in the theft Kamboja that the country came to be called 'Kamboja'.
of Agastya's lotus. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter KAMBOJA II. This kingdom was situated in the north
94 ) western part of India. It is the modern Kabul. We get
(iii) Sri
Krsna turned Govardhana mountain into an the following information from Mahabharata.
umbrella and defeated Indra when Kamadhenu came (1) From Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 27,
to Gokula and bathed Sri Krsna with her milk accord- . Verse 23, we see that Arjuna had subdued this
ing to Bhagavata, 10th Skandha. Kingdom.
(iv) Once the sage Jamadagni went to Goloka and (2) The horses which were tied to Yudhisthira's chariot
propitiated Kamadhenu by his tapas. Kamadhenu gave were brought from Kamboja. (M.B. Sabha Parva,
her sister Suslla to Jamadagni. The sage presented that Chapter 52, Verse 5).
cow to his wife Renuka. (Brahmanda Purana. Chapter (3) The Mlecchas (a tribe of low-class people) of
"
once taught Rajadharma (kingly duties) to King (8) When the horses of Kamboja ran, their tails and
Angirasa. ears remained motionless. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
KAMAPALA. A Yadava dependant of Sri Krsna. (Bhaga- 36, Verse 36).
vata, 10th Skandha). KAMBUGRlVA. Son of Sudhanva, King of the coun-
KAMATHA I. A King of a country called Kamboja. try of Madra. Candrasena, King of Sirhhala, tried to
This King was a prominent member of the court of get his daughter Mandodarl married to this King. But
Yudhisthira. (Sloka 22, Chapter 4, Sabha Parva). Mandodarl did not consent to it. (5th Skandha, Devi
KAMATHA II. A great sage. He became a realised Bhagavata.)
soul by his penance. (Chapter 296, Santi Parva, M.B.). KAMODA. A goddess who came out of the churning of
KAMATlRTHA. A sacred place. Mahabharata, Vana the ocean of milk. (For further details see under
Parva, Chapter 82, Verse 105 says that a man who 'Vihunda').
takes his bath in this holy tirtha will have all his wishes KAMPA. A prince of Vrsnivaihsa. He became a Visva-
fulfilled. deva after his death. (Chapter 5, Svargarohana Parva
KAMBALA. A prominent serpent of the family of M.B.).
Kasyapa. (Chapter 35, Adi Parva, M.B.). The Prayaga KAMPANA I. A mighty King. He was a prominent
tirtha was the abode of this serpent. member of the coort of Yudhisthira. (Chapter 4, Sabha
KAMBALA. A part of Kusadvipa. (Island ofKusa). Parva, M.B.) .
(Chapter 12, Bhisma Parva, M.B.) KAMPANA II. A demon. (See under Nahusa).
KAMBAR. A celebrated Tamil poet. He was born in a KAMPANA. A river. Ifone bathes in this river one will
poor family. At the orders of the King many poets wrote get the benefit of doing a Pundarika yajna. (Chapter 84,
the story of Ramayana in Tamil. But Kambar's work Vana Parva, M.B.).
was accepted as the best. This is the renowned Kamba KAMPILYA. An ancient town in South Pancala. It was
Ramayana. Kambar has written many other poems of the capital city of King Drupada. Sikhandl had come
KAMSA I 382 KAMSA I
to this city after his marriage. Once the King Dasarna Madhu had a son named Lavana. Lavana was a very
came near place and sent a BrJihtnana. messenger
this wicked demon always ill-treating the devas. Satrughna,
to Kampilya. In olden days, a King named Brahma- son of Dasaratha, killed him and lived there establishing
datta used to rule over this city. (M.B. Udyoga Parva) . a beautiful kingdom there. He named that place
See under the word 'Brahmadatta'. Mathura. After the death of Satrughna two of his sons
KAMSA I. Son of Ugrasena, King of Mathura, and an ruled that country. Then when the Surya dynasty be-
incarnation of an Asura called Kalaiiemi. came extinct the city of Mathura came into the possess-
1) Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu Biahniu- : ion of the Yadu dynasty. It was ruled then by a very
Atri - Candra - Budha-Pururavas-Ayus-Nahusa-Yayati- brave and valiant ruler named SQrasena. Vasudeva
Yadu-Sahasrajit-Satajit-Hehaya-Dharma-Kunti (Kuni) - father of Sii Krsna was the son of Suraseiia. After the
Bhadrasena-Dhanaka-Krtavlra-Kartavlryarjuna-Madhu- death of Surascna another King of the Yfidava dynasty,
Vrsni - Yudhajit - Sini-Satyaka-Satyaki (Yuyudhana)- Ugrasena, became the ruler of the place, Vasudeva
Yaya-Kuni Anamitra-Pr-:ni-Citraratha - Kukura-Vahni- accepting cow-rearing as his profession. Karhsa became
Viloma-Kapotaroman (Kapotaloman)-Tumburu - Dun- King keeping Ugrasena as a prisoner. (Skandha 4,
dubhi-Daridra-Vasu-Nahuka-Ahuka-Ugrasena-Kariisa. Devi Bhagavata).
2) Karhsa, an incarnation of Kdlanemi. In the svayam-
5) V sudeva and Devaki are imprisoned. Vasudeva married
bhuvamanvantara Marici had a wife named Crna and Devaki daughter of Ugrasena and sister of Kaihsa.
they had six mighty and powerful sons. One day they Kariisa pleased with his sister presented her with a
ridiculed Brahma saying 'A father who has married his
own daughter' (Brahma married Sarasvati, his own charjpt. Kaihsa, Vasudeva and Devaki ascended the
chariot and Kaihsa himself drove the chariot. Then
daughter) Brahma became angry and cursed them to
.
from an unknown source above came a voice which
be born as demons on earth. All the six sons were, said "Oh King, know thou this and from this moment
therefore, born as sons of a demon called Kalanemi on chalk out thy plans for the future. The
earth. In their next birth they were born as sons of eighth son of
your sister will kill you for certain. You will be no
Hiranyakasipu. They led a pious life and pleased at match against him." (Chapter 1. Bhagavata 10th
this Brahma asked them what boon
they wanted and Skandha).
they demanded that they should not be killed by any-
Hearing this voice from heaven Kamsa got furious and
body. Their father, Hiranyakasipu, did not like his sister by the hair raised his sword to kill
sons getting a boon behind his back and so he cursed dragging his
her. Vasudeva then pleaded weeping not to kill Devaki.
his sons "May you all six go to Patala (nether-world)
and there for a long time under the name of Only the eighth child of Devaki was going to kill him.
sleep Vasudeva would hand over all the children to him as
Sadarbhakas. The sons begged for relief and Hiranya-
soon as they were born. Such arguments pacified Kaihsa
kasipu said that they would after sleeping for a long and he left off Devaki without hurting her.
time be born to Devaki, wife of Vasudeva, as their
children and that Kalanemi, their father in their pre- Devaki delivered a son. He grew up under the name
vious birth would then be born as Karhsa and kill the of Kirtiman and one day Narada visited Kariisa and
children of Devaki by striking their heads on the told him that he was the incarnation of an Asura named
Kalanemi and the son who would be born to Devaki
ground.
to kill him was Narayana. Kariisa, blind with
Accordingly Kalanemi was born as Kariisa and he fury,
killed the six children of Devaki by striking them on killed Kirtiman by striking him on the earth and im-
7) Conspiracy of Kamsa. The thought that his killer KAMYA. A celestia^ woman. In Mahabharata, Adi
was born somewhere made him restless. He let off Parva, Chapter 122, it is said that she took part in the
Vasudeva and Devaki finding them innocent. Then he celebrations at the birth of Arjuna.
sat sadly pondering over the future. The courtiers then KAMYAKAVANA. The Pandavas lived in this forest
advised him to kill all the children who had been born for a long At that time,
time, during their forest life.
within the past ten days and that would include the several sages were performing penance in Kamyakavana.
killer also. Kamsa accordingly sent to different parts Vidura who went out in search of the Pandavas met
of the country his secret agents to kill all children, ten them in this forest. After that Sanjaya went to Kamya-
days old. kavana and took Vidura with him. It was in this
During this campaign Putana, Sakata, Trnavarta, forest that the Pandavas met sages Markandeya and
Aristaka and KesI tried to kill Sri Krsna also but Narada. (M.B. Vana Parva) .
head separately. (10th Skandha, Bhagavata). KANABHUTI. A devil. His name in the previous life
8) Kamsa is slain. Aristaka was one of the prominent was "Supratika". Once he made friends with the
Asuras sent to kill Krsna. He attacked Krsna in the devil Sthulasiras. Kuberawho became angry at this,
form of an ox. Sri Krsna killed it without any diffi- cursed Supratika and turned him into a devil. Supra-
culty. Narada who saw this incident informed Karhsa tika settled down in the Vindhya mountain, assuming
about it adding that Krsna and Balarama were the the new name "Kanabhuti". After narrating Brhat-
sons of Vasudeva only and the child who slipped out katha to Gunadhya, Kanabhuti assumed his former
of his hands was the child of Yasoda. Karhsa got furious form. ( For further details, see under the word GUNA-
and he again imprisoned Vasudeva and Devaki and DHYA).
brought to Mathura Sri Krsna and Balabhadrarama KA ADA. A
. famous sage of ancient India. He was the
and started thinking of ways and means to kill them. founder of the Vaisesika system. The word means one
Karhsa arranged to conduct a grand celebration of who eats Kana (atom). His foes gave him this name to
Ayudhapuja (worship of the weapons) and invited ridicule him. He is also called Kanabhaksaka. Kanada
Krsna and Balarama for the same among many other is known as Pippalada also. (He got that name because
gopas from Ambadi. He sent his chariot with Akrura he used to eat Pippall (long pepper) in large quanti-
to fetch Krsna and Balarama from Ambadi. Akrura ties). (See under PIPPALADA).
privately informed Krsna of the bad intentions of KANAKA. A big forest on the southern base of Maha-
Kamsa. Nandagopa and many others from Ambadi meru. Anjanadevi gave birth to Hanuman in this
started for Mathura. When Sri Krsna and Balabhadra- forest. (Uttara Ramayana).
rama started their journey in the chariot the gopas and KANAKADHVAJA. (
KANAK
A&GADA) A son of .
gopikas assembled there cried loudly. Some blamed King Dhrtarastra. He was slain by Bhlmasena) .
Krsna and Balarama reached Mathura. There they slew KANAKAKSA. A soldier of Skandadeva. (Sloka 74,
a huge wild elephant and the five Asuras, Canura, Chapter 45, Salya Parva) .
Mustika, Kuta, Sala and Kosala whom Karhsa had kept KANAKA&GADA. See under KANAKADHVAJA.
ready to kill Krsna and Rama. Sitting on a platform KANAKAREKHA. Daughter of the King of the island
watching this, Karhsa became frightened and restless of Kanakapuri. By a curse she was born as the daughter
and roared with rage thus "The sons of Nandagopa King of the city of Vardhamana. A
of Paropakarl,
should be instantly sent away from this palace. All brahmin named Saktideva married her. (Caturdari-
their wealth and all that of the gopas should be con- kalambaka, Kathasaritsagara, Taranga 1).
fiscated. Bind with ropes the rogue Nandagopa, and KANAKAVARSA. A King who ruled the nuntry of
kill the wicked Vasudeva. Throw my father, Ugrasena, Kanakapuri on the banks of the river Gangfi. (Katha-
into the river Kalindi bound hand and foot. Even a saritsagara) .
father should be killed if he was a relative of one's KANAKAVATl. A follower of Skandadeva. (Chapter
enemy." 618) Salya Parva).
Sri Krsna and Balarama boiled with rage when they KANAKAYUS. A son of Dhrtarastra. He had another
heard the orders of Kamsa and Krsna, jumping on to name, Karakayus. This prince was present at the
the platform pushed Kamsa down and jumping down svayarhvara of Draupadi. (Sloka 185, Chapter 67, Adi
along with him killed him. (10th Skandha, Bhagavata). Parva ) .
benefit of performing an As vamedha sacrifice. (Sloka is over and dusk is coming. Why this ridicule ? Please
30, Chapter 84, Vana Parva) Kalidasa speaks about
. do tell me the truth.
this place in his famous work 'Meghaduta'. At the Pramloca That I came to you one fine morning is
:
behest of Vasistha, Taksaka, son of Laksmana, conquer- quite true. But since that several centuries have
ed the foresters of Kanakhala and then established a elapsed.
city there called Agatl. (Uttara Ramayana). Sage : How many years have gone by since I started
KANCANA I. One of the two warriors given to enjoying with you ?
Skandadeva by Mahameru. The other warrior was Pramloca Nine hundred years, six months and three
:
named Meghamull. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, days have passed since I came to you.
Verse 47). The great sage became very angry and scolded
KANCANA II. A Kins; of the Piiru dynasty. See under Pramloca much. That beautiful maiden heard it all
the PURUVAMSA.
word standing bathed in perspiration. The sage in rage
KANCANAKSA. A warrior of Skandadeva. (M.B. commanded the trembling nymph to go away from
Salya Parva! Chapter 45, Verse 57) . his presence. Pramloca, thus reprimanded and sent
KANCANAKSl. A river which flows through Naimi- away, rose up in the air and travelled by it. As she
suranya. This is a part of the river Sarasvati. (M.B. flew, the perspiration of her body was absorbed by the
Salya Parva, Chapter 38, Verse 19) . tender leaves of trees on the way. She was pregnant
KANCANAMALA. A attendant of Vasavadatta, at that time and the embryo which went forth along
lady
wife of Udayana. with her perspiration was absorbed in bits by the
tender leaves and sprouts. Wind gathered them from the
KANCI (KANCIPURA). This was the capital city of the
different trees and made everything into one. Moon-
Cola Kings. This city was also called "Kancivaram".
It is mentioned among the holy cities. light gave it development and gave it the form of a
(M.B. Udyoga
woman. She was named Marisa. That was how Marisa
Parva, Chapter 161, Verse 21 ).
was born of trees (Chapter 15, Arha 1. Visnu Purana).
KANDARA. A follower of Skandadeva. (Chapter 46. Kandu's dear son aged sixteen
2) Curse of Kandu.
Salya Parva). died in a forest. Grief-stricken, the sage cursed that
KANDARPA. Another name
Kamadeva. Kama-
for forest and made it a desert. There was no water
deva was born of the mind of Brahma and as soon as there and all the trees became dried and dead.
he was born he turned to Brahma and asked "Kam Hanuman and party who went in search of Sita came to
darpayami ?" (Whom should I make proud ?) So this place. (Chapter 48, Kiskindha Kanda, Valmiki
Brahma gave him the name Karhdarpa alias Kandarpa. Ramayana) .
(Lavanakalambaka, Kathasaritsagara, Taraiiga 6). 3) Kandu in the presence of Sri Rama. When Sri Rama
KANDU. A great sage of ancient Bharata. He was the returned to Ayodhya after his exile many sages from
father of Marisa (Vurksi) wife of the Pracetas. the four different parts came to visit him. Those
all
1) Birth of Alarisa. Marisa, daughter of Kandu, took who came from the south were Kandu, Dattatreya
her birth from a tree. There is an interesting story about Namuci, Pramuci, Valmiki, Soma and Agastya.
this in Visnu Purana. (Uttara Ramayana).
Sage Kandu, chief of the devajnas, was performing KANDUTI. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 14,
penance in a hermitage on the banks of the river Chapter 46, Salya Parva).
Gomatl. Devendra sent Pramloca, an enchanting KANIKA I.
went and sought permission to go home. Again the the brave and kill them by trickery. Give' gifts to the
sage asked her to stay for a while more. Centuries greedy ones. If any one becomes your enemy kill him
passed without the sage losing even a little of his even if it be your father, preceptor, son, brother or
amour. On the other hand every day it found different friend. Never speak insulting words about others even
channels of expression. One evening the sage stepped when you are extremely angry. Never believe the
out of his Asrama and on seeing that Pramloca en- faithful and unfaithful alike."
quired where he was going. 3) Kanika's story. Kanika justified his policy by means
Sage The sun is going to set. I am going to do my
:
of the story of a fox who put into practice the four
sandhyavandana. I do not want to bring a break in tricks to gain his end.
my daily ablutions and duties. Once there was a very selfish fox in a forest. He felt a
Pramloca Oh, Righteous one, did the sun set for you
:
desire to eat the flesh of a lion. For that end he made
only today ? The Sunset of hundreds of years has gone friends with a tiger, a rat and a mongoose. The fox
by without your knowing. advised the rat to gnaw the paws of the lion and make
Sage Dear, you came to this holy river-shore only
: it lame. The tiger should then kill
the lion. The lion
thismorning. It was only this morning that I saw you was killed and the fox suggested that they could have
coming to my Asrama for the first time. Now the day a meal of the lion after a bath. Everybody
hearty
KANIKA II 385 KANYAHRADA
excepting the fox went for his bath and the fox stood it can be gathered that the Kanva family was very
watch over the carcass of the lion. First came the tiger prominent among the Rsi families of ancient India.
after his bath. The fox looked worried and the tiger Because he was born in the family of sage Kasyapa,
asked him the reason why. The fox said "Comrade, son of Brahma, Kanva was known as Kaiyapa also.
the rat says with arrogance that he it was that killed the Kanva's father was Medhatilhi as could be seen by a
lion. My pride does not allow me to eat what the rat reference to him in Sloka 27, Chapter 208 of Santi
claims to be his kill." Hearing this the proud tiger Parva as Medhatithisuta. Kanva was staying in a her-
left the place saying "Let me see whether I can kill mitage on the banks of the river Malim, with a num-
my prey without the help of anybody." ber of disciples.
Sometime later the rat came after its bath. The sly 2) Kanvasrama. Vana Parva of Mahabharata states
fox said "My friend, the mongoose says that the flesh that Kanvasrama was on the northern shore of the
of a lion is poison. It says "Let the rat eat it and die." river Pravem. According to certain critics Kanvagrama
Hearing this the rat went its way. was situated on the banks of the river Cambal. four
Then came the mongoose. The fox threatened it and it miles to the south of 'Kota' in Rajputana.
went away. The fox then ate the flesh of the lion by 3) How Kanva got Sakuntala. Once Visvamitra started
himself and was contented. a severe penance and Indra desiring to obstruct the
Kanika then said that the Kings should use such tricks attempt sent the enchanting Menaka to entice him.
against their enemies. (Chapter 139, Adi Parva) .
They fell in love with each other and soon Menaka
KAl^IKA II. There is a statement in Mahabharata bore a girl. The parents left the child in the forest and
about another brahmin of the Bharadvaja family who went their way. Birds (Sakuntas) looked after her for
was also well-versed in Kutaniti. He was an adviser to some time and so she was named Sakuntala. Accident-
Satrunjaya, King of Sauvira. (Chapter 140, Santi ally Kanva came that way and took the child to his
Asrama.
Parva).
The Tdga of Bharata. Bharata, son of Dusyanra,
KANlNA. A child born an
unmarried
to woman. 4)
performed a peculiar type of Yaga called 'Govitata' with
Vyasa, Kama, Sibi, Astaka, Pratardana, and Vasuman Kanva as the chief preceptor to officiate. (Sloka 130,
were Kaninas.
See under Dharmasarma.
Chapter 74, Adi Parva) .
(Chapter 14, Sabha Parva). 6) Kanva, usage of the east. When Sri Rama returned
KA5IKA II. A King of ancient India, (Sloka 233, to Ayodhya after his exile many sages from many
Chapter 1, Adi Parva). different parts came to visit him.Kanva was one of
KA5IKA III. A bird, son of Surasa. (Sloka 69, those who came from the east. The others who came
Chapter 66, Adi Parva). along with him were, Vasistha, Atri, ViSvamitra,
KA&KA IV. The name which Dharmaputra bore when Gautama, Jamadagni, Bharadvaja, Sanaka, Sarabhariga
he spent his life incognito at the palace of the King of Durvasas, Matanga, Vibhandaka and Tumburu.
Virata. (See under Dharmaputra). 7) Kanva and Rgveda.
KA5IKA V. A place of habitation of ancient India. (i) There are ten Mandalas in Rgveda. The Man-
This place was given to Dharmaputra as a gift by the dalas from two to seven are written by different Rsi fami-
inhabitants of the place. (Chapter 51, Sabha Parva). lies. The second Mandala was written
by the Bhargava
KAKIKAI^A. A
follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 16, family of rsis, the third by the Vi.'vamitra family, the
Chapter 46, Salya Parva) . fourth by that of Vamadeva, the fifth by Atri, the sixth
KAI^TAKINI. A follower of Skandadeva. (Sloka 16, by that of Bharadvaja and the seventh by the family
Chapter 46, Salya Parva). of Vasistha. Fifty Suktas of the first Mandala and the
KANTARAKA. A city in South India. There is a refer- whole of the eighth Mandala were written by Kanva.
ence in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 31, (ii) Kanva had a son named Medhatithi. Sukta twelve
Verse 16, about the conquest of this place by Sahadeva. of Anuvaka four in the first Mandala of Rgveda is
Modern scholars are of the opinion that Kantaraka is written making Medhatithi a sage.
situated on the banks of the river Vena. (iii) Kanva had a daughter named Indivaraprabha
KAI<[TARlKA. An
ancient sage. He was a worker of his by Menaka. (Kathasaritsagara) (See under Candra-
.
gotra. It was in this family that the pre-eminent valoka and Kasyapa I) .
Brahmadatta was born. (Chapter 342, Santi Parva). KAl^TVA II. A King of Puruvarhs"a. (Puru dynasty).
KANTI. A city in ancient India. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
He was the son of the brother of Santurodha, father of
Chapter Verse 40)
9, . Dusyanta. His father was Pritiratha and he also had
a son named Medhatithi. (Agni Purana)
KANTIVRATA. A Vrata observed in the month of
.
Karttika. It consists in offering worship to Balarama and KAl^VASlRAS. A caste. Originally they were Ksatriyas.
In Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 35,
Sri Krsna and taking food only at night. By observing
Verse 1 7 we find that they were reduced to low caste
this Vrata for one year, beauty, longevity and health
because of their being jealous of the superiority of the
can be obtained. (Agni Purana, Chapter 177).
Brahmanas.
KAWA I. (KASYAPA). KANYAHRADA. A sacred place. If one stayed in this
1) General information. Kanva attained Puranic fame place for a while one would attain Devaloka. (Chapter
as the father who brought up Sakuntala. From Rgveda 25, AnuSasana Parva) .
KANYAKAGUtfA 386 KANYAKUMARl
KANYAKAGWA. A place of habitation of ancient "If you visit Rsabhacala of Pandyadesa you will get the
India. (Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva). benefit of conducting an As'vamedhayaga. Then you
KANYAKUBJA. (KANYAKUBJA). must go farther south and take a dip in Kanyatirtha.
1) General information. A city ofPuranic fame on the The touch of that water absolves you of all sins. Then
banks of the river Gariga. This is the same place which visit Gokarna situated in the ocean famous in all the
is now known as Kanauj. Visvamitra was the son of three worlds and worshipped by all."
Gadhi, King of Kanyakubja. From this understood that ot the time of
it is to be
2) Origin of this city. Once
there was a great sage Mahabharata Kanyakumarl was part of Pandyadesa
named Ku;'a who was the son of Brahma. He had of and that Gokarna was an island.
his wife Vaidarbhi four sons named Kusamba, Kusa- 2) Purdnic stories about Kanyakumdri. There are several
nabha, Asurtarajasa and Vasu. Kiu'a asked them each stories regarding the origin and renown of Kanya-
to rule a country and so each of them built a city of kumarl in the Puranas. The most important ones are
his own. Kusamba named his city Kam'ambl, Kusa- given below.
nabha gave his city the name of Mahodayapura, (1) Absolver of sins. The wife of a brahmin named
Asurtarajasa called his city Dharmaranya and Vasu Apaficika living in KasI became unchaste and to wash
called his city Girivraja. Of these Mahodayapura, away her sin she came (o Kanyakumarl walking all
city of Kusanabha, became later famous as Kanyakubja. the way and did penance (here, daily bathing in its
(
Bala Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) . waters. She attained Salvation and it is believed that
3) How Mahodayapura became Kanyakubja. KuSanabha a bath in its waters would absolve anybody of all his
begot a hundred daughters of the nymph Ghrtacl. sins. (Manimekhala).
Those beautiful girls were once playing in the forests (2) Cakra tirtha of Kanyakumdri Punyakasi, daughter of
'.
when the wind-god fell in love with them. The girls Mayasura, once went to Kailasa and worshipped Siva.
rejected his love and Vayu getting angry with them After three yugas Siva appeared before her and asked
cursed them and made them hunchbacks. Because the her what she wanted. She rep'ied that she wanted to
hundred Kanyakas (girls) became Kubjas (hunch- be merged in Siva always. Siva then said 'Three
backs) at that place, the place became known as Kanya- hundred and sixtyfive days would make a year. Four
kubja. lakhs and thirtythree years would make a Kali Yuga.
When the daughters returned to the palace as hunch- Krta, Treta, Dvapara and Kali are four Yugas and
backs Kusanabha was greatly distressed. Weeping, the when two thousand such Yugas are over Brahma
girls told him what had happened. At that time a sage finishes a day. Such thirty days make one month and
named Cull was performing penance in a forest nearby. twelve months, a year for Brahma. When such hundred
Somada, daughter of Urmila, a gandharva lady, married years of Brahma are over the great deluge comes. Such
Cull and they got a son named Brahmadatta. This ten deluges make a nazhika ( twentyfour minutes ) of
Brahmadatta married the hundred hunchbacks of Visnu. Counting thus when you pass ten Vi snu deluges
Kusanabha and the very touch of Brahmadatta trans- Siva passes a second. Then is the time for the fulfil-
formed the hunchbacks into beautiful girls. ment of your desire. Till that time you sit in medita-
After having given his daughters in marriage Kusanabha tion on the shores of the south seas. Your hermitage
conducted a Putrakamesti yaga to get a son. In that would be known as Kanyaksetra or Tapah Sthala.
Yaga Brahma appeared in person and blessed Kusanabha During your stay there you must kill all the wicked
and he got a son. The son was named Gadhi. 1 Gadhi people like Banasura and give relief to the people. I
got a son and a daughter. The son was named Visva- will also come and stay with you there then."
mitra and the daughter, Satyavati. Rcika married Punyakasi after prostrating before Siva went to the
Satyavatl. Gadhi and Visvamitra were the rulers of south seas. Taking a Japamala (necklace for prayer) in
Kanyakubja. See under 'Rcika, ViSvamitra' (Sargas her hands she assumed the name Kanyakumarl, and
32 to 34, Balakanda, Valmiki Ramayana) . started her penance. After conquering all the three
4) Narada and Kanyakubja. There was a very big lake worlds demon Bana was having a wicked rule over his
in Kanyakubja. Mahavisnu once showed Maya to people when he saw Kanyakumarl and asked her to be
Narada at that place. (See under 'Narada') . his wife. He approached her with his wicked servants
5) VUvdmitra and Indra take wine together. ViSvamitra Durmukha and Durdarsana. But Kanyakumarl flatly
and Indra took wine together at Kanyakubja. (Sloka refused and in the battle that ensued, Banasura fell dead
17, Chapter 87, Vana Parva) .
by the Cakrayudha (Discus) of Devi and at that spot
KANYAKUMARl (KANY^KUPA; KANYATlRTHA) is the Cakratirtha. (Skanda Purana) .
boundary. It must, therefore, be surmised that these It is said that there was an
3) The Geographical view.
two holy places were very ancient ones. Vana Parva, extension of the present continent to the south and that
praises Kanyakumari at many places. If any one bathes expansive land called Lamuria was later submerged in
at this place one will become very famous. (Anusasana waters. There is a description of such an extended land
Parva, M.B.). in some of the old literature like Cilappadikaram."
Chapter eightyfive of Aranya Parva, of Bhasa Bharata Kanyakumarl which was called 'Kumari-ambadi' also
speaks praisingly of Kanyakumarl and Gokarna among was the first setu; Dhanuskoti the middle setu; and
other places. It says thus: Kotikkara, last setu. (Setu Purana)
4) In History. Kanyakumarl had attracted the atten- Ajaikapat, Ahirbudhnya, Pinakl, Isvara, Kapali,
tion of foreigners long before Christ. Herodotus who Sthanu, Bharga and Dahana. (See under Kapardi).
lived in the third century B.C. has written about The eleven Rudras are referred to in different ways
Kanyakumarl in one of his books. in Agni Purana and Visnu Purana.
In the book 'Periplus' written in 60 A.D. there is a KAPALl II. Siva. The Mahabharata gives the follow-
mention of Kanyakumarl. It says: "Pious persons at ing regarding the reason for Siva's getting the
story
the fag end of their lives dedicate their lives to God name of Kapali.
and go to Kanyakumarl on a pilgrimage and stay there Once a great controversy arose regarding the supreme
accepting an ascetic life. A divine lady bathed in the sovereignty of the three worlds between Brahma and
holy waters there grants you 'darsana'." Visnu. Then there came to their midst an effulgence
Ptolemy another traveller who lived two thousand years of Siva and a voice from heaven said "He who finds
ago refers to Kanyakumarl in his book as 'Komaria the source of this brilliance is the real sovereign of the
Akron'. He had bathed in those waters and worshipped three worlds". Brahma went up to find the upper end
in the
Kanyakumarl temple. and Visnu went down to find the lower end. They
Marco Polo of Venice who had travelled these parts in travelled for a very long time without finding the end
1243 A.D. has written of his worshipping in the Kanya- when Brahma saw a KetakI flower coming down. On
kumarl temple. He has also recorded having seen thirty enquiry the flower said it was coming from the origin
miles from Kanyakumarl a glittering figure like that of of the brilliance and that three Brahma deluges had
the Pole-star. elapsed since its starting from there. Brahma took that
Ibn Batuta who lived in 1203 A.D. has referred to flower and went to Visnu. Visnu asked Brahma whether
Kanyakumarl in his book as Raskurhhari. he had seen the end of the effulgence and Brahma said
KANYASAMVEDYATIRTHA. An ancient holy place. 'yes'. Immediately the flower in the hand of Brahma
It believed that those who visit this place will attain
is turned into the figure of Siva and cut off one of the
the world of Prajapatimanu. (Chapter 84, Vana Parva) . heads of Brahma making five-headed Brahma into four-
KANYASRAMA. A holy place. If a man spends three headed. The angered Brahma cursed Siva "May you
nights at this place he would attain Svarga. (Chapter go begging with a Kapala (human skull) in your hand."
83, Vana Parva) . Thus Siva became a Kapali. Siva cursed Brahma back
KAPA(S). A company of Asuras. The Mahabharata saying "You will not be worshipped by anyone" (See
gives a story of how the brahmins killed these demons. under Siva, Brahma) .
The Asvinidevas once came to the earth and gave eye- KAPARDl. One eleven Rudras. According to
of the
sight to the blind sage Cyavana.was the time when
It Agni Purana the Ekadasa Rudras ( eleven Rudras) are
Indra had denied Soma juice to the Asvinldevas. Sage the following Hara, Bahurupa, Tryambaka, Aparajita,
:
Cyavana got back his eyesight and promised the Vrsakapi, Sambhu, Kapardi, Raivata, Mrgavyadha,
Asvinidevas that he would lift the ban on wine for Sarpa and Kapali. (Chapter 18, Agni Purana' .
them. Cyavana conducted a Yaga to which the Asvinl- KAPATA. A demon. He was Kasyapa's son born of
devas were also invited. Indra and the other devas his wife Danu. (Chapter 65, Bhisma Parva) .
refused to take the sacrificial wine and butter along KAPATABHIKSU. A false sage."To illustrate the fact
with the Asvinidevas. Cyavana got angry and he pro- that if a man fails in his deceit he will be subjected to
duced from the sacrificial fire an Asura named Mada. ridicule, a story of a false sage occurs in Kathasaritsa-
With a huge mouth and long teeth the demon went gara. Since this Character has earned a place in the
round eating all the Devas. All at once Cyavana con- Indian literature his story is given below :
quered the earth and the Kapas subjugated heaven. There was once a city called Makandi on the banks of
When they lost both heaven and earth the Devas the river Ganga. In that city lived a sage who
approached the brahmins for help. The brahmins observed silence as a Vrata. One day when he went
started a war against the Kapas. The Kapas sent Dhani begging he saw a beautiful girl in a Vaisya's house and
to the brahmins for peace-talks. Dhani said "The Kapas the false ascetic was attracted by her. Breaking his
are equal to you, Oh brahmins, and so why do you silence he said "What a pity!" and left the place. The
fight themPThey are well-versed in Vedas and are very Vaisya was worried why the sage said so and approached
wise men who are entitled to conduct Yagas. They are him and asked why he broke his silence to say so. The
righteous persons similar to Brahmarsis. Prosperity sage said : '"'Your
daughter is ill-omened. If you give her
lives in them. They never keep unchaste wives nor do in marriage all of you remaining will perish. So pack her
they eat stale meat. It is not proper to fight against in a box and with a torch burning on the top of it set it
such virtuous persons." afloat on the river." The Vaisya did so.
But the brahmins did not pay heed to what Dhani said The sage coming to his Asrama called his disciples to
and they killed all the Kapas in bulk. The Kapas, his side and said "To-night a box with a torch burning
though they were born Asuras, were good-natured on the top of it will come floating on the river. You
persons. (Chapter 157, Anusasana Parva) must take it and bring it to me without opening it."
KAPALA. See under Brahma, 5th Para. The disciples went to the river and seeing the box
KAPALAMOCANA. A holy place on the shores of the coming floating caught it and took it to their preceptor.
river Sarasvati, in Kuruksetra. (Chapter 88, Vana But from a point high up in the river a prince had seen
Parva; See under Rahodara and Siva) . the box coming floating and had opened it. He had
KAPALl I. One of the eleven Rudras. This Rudra was then released the girl from the box and had floated the
the son of Sthanu, son of Brahma. (Chapter 66, Adi box again filling it with a black monkey. When the
Parva) According to the Mahabharata the eleven
.
disciples got the box to the guru he said "Take it up-
Rudras are the following: Mrgavyadha, Sarpa, Nirrti, stairs and keep it there. There is a Puja to be conduct-
KAPI 388 KAPILA VIII
ed with the recital of sacred verses. It should not be The Sagaraputras returned to their father when they
seen by others. You can all go to sleep." could not find the horse. But Sagara ordered "Go and
The false sage went up eager to enjoy the girl in the dig again till you find it". They went to the nether
box and opened the box with pleasant thoughts. But to world. After circling the eight elephants who carry the
his utter horror there jumped from the box a ferocious world they dropped down to the nether world through
black monkey who mauled him terribly. The Kapata- the north-east corner of the earth. There they saw sage
bhiksu was fooled. (Taraiiga 1. Lavanakalambaka, Kapila engaged in penance and the sacrificial horse
Kathasaritsagara ) .
grazing by his side. The sons of Sagara made a great
KAPl. A river. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9. Verse hubbub there and Kapila produced a big sound of
24). rebuke and stared at them. All the sixtythousand sons
KAPIDHVAJA. Arjuna. of Sagara were reduced to ashes. For more details see
KAPILA I. A fierce sage. under Bhaglratha. (Sargas 39 and 40. Balakanda.
1
) Genealogy and birth. Kapila was the son of Kardama- Valmiki Ramayana) .
prajapati, son of Brahma, born to him of his wife 5) Kapilayogasdstra. Kapila made the renowned Kapila-
Devahuti, grand-daughter of Brahma and daughter of sastra sitting in hisAsrama and taught it to his mother
Svayambhuva Manu. Devahuti. Kapila was a great yogin. The yoga Sastra
Svayambhuva Manu got two sons named Priyavrata and itself is based on the Saiikhya philosophy of Kapila. His
Uttanapada and three daughters named Akuti, Deva- Sarikhya Sastra, known as Kapila Sastra also, contains
huti and Prasuti. The daughters were married to Ruci, the distinctive yoga of meditation and it creates in you
Kardama and Daksa respectively. To Ruci was born of spiritual knowledge removing your ignorance totally.
Akuti a boy named Yajna. He was a partial incarnation After teaching his mother his 'Kapila' he went to the
of Visnu. To Kardama was born of his wife Devahuti Asrama of Pulaha and lived there. (8th Skandha, Devi
Kapilacarya, a great sage and the celebrated exponent Bhagavata ) .
of the Sankhya philosophy. Prasuti got many daughters 6) 'Other details regarding Kapila.
(8th Skandha, Devi Bhagavata). (i) Kapila was the preceptor of the King of Sindhu.
Sage Kapila was known as Cakradhanus also. (Sloka 1 7 5th Skandha, Bhagavata) .
Chapter 109, Udyoga Parva). (ii) Kapila visited Bhisma while the latter was lying
Kardama married the daughter of Vaivasvata Manu on his bed of arrows before his death. (Sloka 8, Santi
called Devahuti. They spent their honeymoon in the Parva, M.B.).
air travelling throughout the world. Devahuti delivered
(iii) There occurred a discussion once between Kapila
nine daughters and a son named Kapila. Kardamapra- and a Sage named 'Gau' on the subject whether Grhas-
japati gave his daughters in marriage to Marici and the thadharma (doing one's duty as a house-holder) or
other sages. yogadharma (doing yoga practices) was superior.
2) Kapila incarnation of Visnu. The Brahmanda (Chapter 286, Santi Parva) .
Purana states that Kapila was the incarnation of Visnu. (iv) Kapila was a sage of great brilliance of body.
In Chapter 93 there is this statement "Bhagavan : When the sons of Sagara went to the nether world in
Narayana will protect us all. The Lord of the universe search of the horse they saw the sage Kapila sitting
has now been born in the world as Kapilacarya." there radiating a brightness equal to that of fire. (Chap-
3) Kapila imparts spiritual knowledge to his mother. Kapila ter 107, Aranya Parva).
started a severe penance. At that time Kardamapra- (v) Kapila was an authority on Sankhya and Veda
japati died and Devahuti wife of Kardama and mother and was a worshipper of Siva. (Sloka 4, Chapter 18,
of Kapila approached Kapila and asked him to instruct AnuSasana Parva).
her on the path of Bhakti Yoga. Kapila imparted to her (vi) He has written two books, namely, Sankhyapra-
spiritual knowledge and gave her instructions to follow vacana and Tattvasamasa.
the path of Bhakti Yoga for Salvation. She entered into KAPILA Another name of Surya. (Sloka 24, Chap-
II.
a life of austerities and attained Samadhi. (3rd Skandha, ter 3, Vana Parva, M.B.) .
Once Sagara conducted an AsVamedha Yaga at a place KAPILA IV. Son of an Agni named Bhanu. He was
where the rivers Sindhu and Ganga meet. Arhsuman, his fourth son and was believed to be another incarna-
son of Asamanjasa led the sacrificial horse. Indra dis- tion of sage Kapila (Sloka 21, Chapter 221, Vana
guised as a demon stole the horse when it came to a
Parva) .
self as sage Kapila to kill the sons of Sagara and is KAPILA VII. A synonym of Siva. (Chapter 17, Anusa-
now in the nether-world bearing this world. In the fire sana Parva) .
of his anger the Sagaraputras will be burnt to death". KAPILA VIII. A synonym of Visnu. (Chapter 149,
On hearing this all of them came back. Anusasana Parva) .
KAPILA I 389 KARANDHAMA
KAPILA I. Daughter of Daksaprajapati. Kasyapa named Tumburu and Suvarcas. Kapota received much
married Kapila. (Sloka 12, Chapter 65, Adi Parva wealth from Kubera and gave it to his sons. Once
M.B.). Kapota cursed Taravati, the queen of Candra.'ekhara,
KAPILA II. A holy place of Kuruksetra. If one bathes would bring forth two sons with monkey-faces.
that she
in a sacred pond there one will get the benefit of (Kalika Purana, Chapter 56) .
making a thousand Godanas (giving away cows as KAPOTAROMA (KAPOTALOMA). Son of the
gifts). (Chapter 83, Vana Parva) .
emperor Sibi who was greatly devoted to his depend-
KAPILA III. A river. (Chapter Bhlsma Parva)
9, . ants, (For genealogy see under Sibi) He had another .
KAPILA IV. The mother of Paiicasikha. (Chapter 218, name Audbhida. (Chapter 197, Vana Parva) He was a .
Santi Parva) .
prominent member of the court of Varuna. (Santi
KAPILA (M). Seventh division of Kusadvipa. (M.B. Parva) .
Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 14). KARABHA. A King who bowed before Jarasandha,
KAPILAHRADA. A sacred place in Kasi. If one bathes King of Magadha. (Sloka 13, Chapter 14, Sabha
there one will get the benefit of performing a Rajasuya Parva, M.B.) .
to his mother Devahuti. (Devi Bhagavata 8th KARABHI. SonofSakuni. (Matsya Purana) .
called Kapila. (Sloka 32, Chapter 84, Vana Parva). KARAKARSAKA. A brother of the Raja of Cedi.
KAPILAVATA. A sacred place. If you stay there and Sarabha is the other brother. The Raja of Cedi along
observe fasting you will get the benefit of giving with his brothers, Karakarsaka and Sarabha, helped
away in charity a thousand cows. ( Chapter 84, Vana the Pandavas in the great battle. (Sloka 47, Chapter
Parva) .
50, Udyoga Parva) .
KAPILEYA. Son of Visvamitra. After saving Sunax- KARAKASA. A soldier who fought on the side of the .
sepha from death, Visvamitra was fondling the child Kauravas. He stood and fought at a strategic point in
on his lap. At that time, the child's father Ajigarta the Garuda Vyuha formed by Drona. (Sloka 6,
came to him and wanted Visvamitra to return the Chapter 20, Drona Parva) .
child to him. Visvamitra then told him "Like KARALA. A Deva Gandharva. He took part in the
Kapileya and Babhravya, this is also my son." birthday celebrations of Arjuna. (Chapter 122, Adi
From this we may infer that Kapileya must have Parva, M.B.) .
another head he drank wine and by the third he looked KARAMALASAMPRADAYA. The method of counting
at the world wickedly. Indra envious of the growing the number of recitals of a prayer by using the fingers
strength of Trisiras felled him down by his Vajrayudha. of the hand. (See under Gayatri).
A person called Taksaka carrying an axe came that KARAMBHA. Brother of Rambha, father of Mahisasura.
way then and by orders from Indra he cut off the heads See under Mahisa.
ofTriviras. When the heads fell down there emerged KARAMBHA. A princess of Kalingade:'a. She was
from them birds called Kapinjala, Tittiri and Kala- married to Akrodha, a King of the Puruvamsa. She
piiigala. From the head
which recited the Vedas came was the mother of Devatithi. (Sloka 22, Chapter 95,
the birds Kapinjalas; from the head that drank the Adi Parva) .
wine came the birds Kalapingalas; and from the head KARANA. Another name of Yuyutsu. See under
that looked at the world with wickedness came the Yuyutsu and Varna.
birds Tittiris. (Chapter 9, Udyoga Parva) . KARANDHAMA.
KAPISKANDHA. A soldier of Skandadeva. (Sloka 57, 1) General information. A King of Iksvaku Varhsa.
Chapter 45, Salya Parva.) Descending in order from Iksvaku came Virhsa
KAPOTA. A son of Garuda. (Chapter 101, Udyoga Kalyana Khaninetra Suvarcas. Suvarcas later on
Parva) . became famous as Karandhama.
KAPOTA. A sage. Citrangada, the daughter of 2) How he got his name Karandhama. Once there came
Kakutstha and Urvasi, was his wife. She had two sons a famine in the country of Suvarcas. The treasury
KARANDHAMANA 390 KARKOTAKA
became empty. Taking that opportunity the enemies KARDAMA I. A Prajapati. Pulaha, son of Brahma, be-
attacked his country. There was no army for him to got of his wife Ksama three sons named Kardama,
fight against his enemies. Meditating upon God he Urvariyan and Sahisnu. (Chapter 10, Arhsa 1, Visnu
blew his hands and then an army sufficient to fight Purana) Of these three Kardama married Devahuti.
.
his enemies appeared before him and using that he Devahuti was the daughter of Svayambhuva Manu and
defeated them. Because he arranged an army by sister of Akuti and Prasiiti. (8th Skandha, Devi Bhaga-
Karadhamana (blowing of hands) he was given the vata) .
name of Karandhamana also. Devahuti was an ideal wife and served her husband
3) Other details. with great devotion. Kardama was pleased with his
(i) The celebrated King Aviksit was the son of wife and presented her with an aeroplane. Kardama
Karandhama. (Chapter 4, Asvamedha Parva) . and Devahuti conducted then a tour of the worlds in
(ii) Karandhama
was a prominent member of the that plane. Devahuti delivered nine daughters and a
court of Yama. (Sloka 16, Chapter 8, Sabha Parva) . son. The daughters were married to Marlci and other
KARANDHAMANA. See under the word Karandhama. sages and the son grew into the celebrated Sage
KARANDHAMANA (M). A tirtha situated near the Kapilacarya. Kardama then entered into Samadhi.
southern ocean. The five holy places in the southern (Sitting in yoga and courting death of one's own
ocean, viz. Agastya tirtha, Saubhadra tirtha, Pauloma accord) (3rd Skandha, Bhagavata)
. .
tirtha, Karandhamana tirtha and Bharadvaja tirtha were KARDAMA II. A virtuous serpent. (Chapter 35, Adi
called Panca tlrthas. In the course of Arjuna's Parva).
pilgrimage, he visited these Panca tlrthas. At that KARDAMA III. This Sage sits in the court of Brahma
time, the Sages never used to go there. There was a and worships him. (Sloka 19, Chapter 11, Sabha
special reason for it. The five celestial women, Varga, Parva, M.B.) .
Saurabheyi, Samici, Budbuda and Lata used to live in KARDAMA IV. A celebrated sage who was the grand-
them in the form of crocodiles as a result of a sage's son of Viraja. He had a son named Anaiiga. (Sloka 90,
curse. Arjuna liberated all of them. (For details see Chapter 59, Santi Parva).
under the word "Varga") . KARDAMILAKSETRA. A temple near the mountain
KARANJANILAYA. Anala, the mother of all trees. of Samaiiga. Bharata was crowned temple King at this
She was the daughter of Daksa and the wife of (Sloka Chapter 135, Vana Parva).
9,
Kasyapa. She is known as Virudha also. That was how KARENUMATl. Daughter of Sis upala, King of Cedi.
Virut became a synonym of tree. It is believed that Nakula married her and they got a child named Nira-
Anala stays in the tree Karanja. To obtain blessings mitra. (Sloka 79, Chapter 95, Adi Parva).
from Anala people worship the Karanja tree. (Slokas KARlSA. A son of Visvamitra. (M.B. Anusasana Parva,
35 to 36, Chapter 230, Vana Parva). Chapter 4, Verse 55).
KARAPARVAN. A holy place in the Sarasvati river KARlSAKA. A place of habitation in ancient India.
valley. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 54) .
(Chapter 9, Bhlsma Parva, M.B.) .
KARASKARA. A despised country of ancient times. KARlSINl. A river. (Chapter 9. Bhlsma Parva) .
There is a reference to this country in the Maha- KARlTI. A place of habitation in ancient India. (Chap-
bharata, Kama Parva, Chapter 44. ter 9. Bhlsma Parva) .
tinent got the name of Karmabhumi is given below. All 3) Education of Karna. Karna grew up in the house of
those born in this land enjoy a life in Svarga, on earth Adhiratha in the country of Anga bearing the names
or in hell according to the class to which their actions Vasusena and Vrsa. Kunti knew this through spies.
belong namely Sattvic, Rajasic or Tamasic. It is possible When the time came for imparting education to Kama
for only this land to obtain for its people life in other Adhiratha sent him to Hastinapura to the presence of
worlds. 1 Therefore this land got the name Karmabhumi. Drona for teaching him archery. Karna studied under
(8th Skandha, Devi Bhagavata). Krpa and Paras urama also. After his education he
KARMAJIT. A King of the family of Arjuna. He was entered into a treaty with Duryodhana. (Chapter 309,
the son of Brhatsena and the father of Srutanjaya. (9th Vana Parva) .
Skandha, Bhagavata) .
4) Karna is cursed. Karna was cursed by a brahmin and
KARNA I. The eldest son of Kunti. Though he was the Para;' urama. The story is given below.
brother of the Pandavas he joined sides with the Kaura- Even while they were studying archery Arjuna and
vas and became the King of Anga. So the name of Karna vied with each other. Karna once requested
Karna comes in the genealogy of the Anga royal family. Drona to teach him in private the secret of the Brahma
1) Genealogy. Descending in order from Visnu: missile to fight against Arjuna. But Drona did not
Brahma- A tri- Candra-Budha-Pururavas- Ay us - Nahusa- accede to his request.
Yayati-Turvasu-Vahni-Bharga-Bhanu-Tribhanu-Karan- Karna then went to Mahendragiri and bowed before
dhama-Marutta - (Marutta had no son and he adopted Para' urama and represented himself as a member of the
Dusyanta) - Dusyanta - Varutha - Gandira - Gandhara- Bhrgu family. He said he had come to him to be his
Kola-Druhyu-Babhrusetu - Purovasu Gharma - Ghrta- disciple and learn the secret of the Brahma missile from
-
Vidusa-Pracetas-Sabhanara-Kalanara -Srnjaya - Puran- him. ParaSurama believed him and accepting him as
jaya-Janamejaya-Mahasala-Mahamanas-Usinara - Titi- his disciple taught him many new techniques in archery.
ksu-Rusadratha-Paila-Sutapas-Bali-Ariga
-
(The Anga Once Karna was wandering in the vicinity of the
dynasty begins) - Dadhivahana - Dravlratha - Dharma- aSrama when he saw a lonely cow grazing there and
ratha-Citraratha- Satyaratha -
Lomapada Caturanga- - Karna without knowing that it belonged to a brahmin
Prthulaksa-Carnpa-Haryanga-Bhadraratha-Brhatkarma- sent an arrow and killed it. The brahmin got furious
Brhadbhanu-Brhadatma-Jayadratha-Brhadratha- Visva- and cursed Karna thus "Oh, sinner, the wheel of your
jit-Karna. chariot would go down in the mud when you face the
2 ) Birth of Kama. Pandu, a King of Candravamsa, enemy to fight against whom you are now taking training.
married Kunti, daughter of King Surasena. This girl Then, when you stand perplexed, your opponent would
was brought up even from childhood by a King called cut off your head." Karna requested for a removal of
Kuntibhoja. She grew up in the palace of the King. She the curse but the brahmin refused to show any mercy.
was once put in charge of attending to the welfare of ParaSiirama taught Karna the secret of the Brahma
those engaged in religious duties. The sage Durvasas missile. One day tired after a day's fast and a walk
came there then and stayed for four months as the king's around the asrama with his disciples Paras urama slept
guest. Kunti served the sage during his stay there with resting his head on the lap of Karna. Then a
so much care, patience and devotion that the sage was beetle named Alarka attacked Karna and started sucking
immensely pleased and gave her at the time of his de- blocd from his thigh. Blood was oozing from his thigh
parture a divine mantra. If she called upon any god and still Karna did not stir from his position lest it
repeating that mantra once, that god would manifest should disturb his guru in his nap. Suddenly Parasu-
himself to her and bless her with a son equal to him rama awoke and stared at the beetle and the beetle fell
i
According to a belief of old, all other parts of the world excepting Bharatavarsa were inhabited bv Devas,
KARIVA I 392
that I would be given my original form by Parasu- (ii) Bhima defeated Kama once in a single combat.
rama." (Sloka 20, Chapter 34. Sabha Parva).
When the demon disappeared saying so much Parasu- (iii) Karna took part in the Rajasuya of Yudhisthira.
rama turned to Karna who stood with (Sloka 7, Chapter 34, Sand Parva) .
are not a brahmin. Let me know the truth." Trem- (v) Kama
defeated in his victory march many kings
you likeDrupada, Bhagadatta and Kerala. (Chapter 254,
bling with fear Karna revealed his identity and then
Parasurama cursed him saying "You will forget the Aranya Parva).
secret of the Brahma missile at the time when you want (vi) Karna conquered the cities of Malini and Campa
and annexed them to the country of Anga. (Chapter 5,
to use it against your enemy." (Chapters 2 and 3, Santi
Karna Parva) .
Parva) .
(vii) Karna prompted Duryodhana to tease the Panda-
5) How Karna became King of Anga. The Pandavas
the vas living in the forest. (Chapter 7, Vana Parva).
and Kauravas were studying archery under Dronacarya (viii) Karna swo^e that he would kill Arjuna. (Chapter
together and Karna also was among them. When their 257, Vana'Parva) .
education was complete a day was fixed to exhibit the (ix) Karna lost his clothes during a fight against the
skill of the students. The public also was invited to see king of Virata. (Chapter 65, Virata Parva).
the skill of the princes. Everybody showed his best and
(x) Kandaprstham is the name of Kama's bow.
Arjuna displayed super-human skill so that the vast 8) Karna and the Kuruksetra battle. The great battle of
assemblage was lost in wonder and admiration. Then Mahabharata lasted for eighteen days and some of the
strode Karna to the scene and not only did he duplicate incidents touching Karna during that period are given
with ease Arjuna's feats but he did show something below :
more. The assemblage was dumbfounded. Arjuna turnn- (i) Before the great war started Kunti went alone to
ed pale. At this moment Krpa stood up and questioned the shores of Gariga and met Kama. She then confessed
the right of Karna to compete with those with royal to him that she was his mother and that the Pandavas
blood in them. Then rose Duryodhana and said "If : were his brothers. She advised Karna to join sides with
the combat not in order simply because Karna is not
is the Pandavas and the Sun god approved of it. But
a prince it is easily remedied. I crown Karna as the Karna refused to do so. He said he would never forsake
King of Anga". Then there came to the scene the aged Duryodhana who had brought him up from his child-
Adhiratha, the foster-father of Karna, and as Karna hood at a time when he was in peril. But he promised
saw him coming he went and bowed before him and his mother that he would never kill any of her other four
Adhitatha embraced him with tears in his eyes. (Chap- sons but would kill Arjuna in the battle-field. (Chapter
ters 134 to 136, Adi Parva, M.B.) 146
.
Udyoga Parva).
6) Kama's armour and ear-rings. Karna was born with an (ii) Karna started his fight against the Pandavas after
armour on his body and rings in his ears.- Chapter 99 taking blessings from Bhisma. (Chapter 3, Drona
of /idi Parva says thus "To Kunti was born of Surya
:
Parva) .
the mighty Karna. Even at his birth he was adorned (iii) Karna fought against the princes of Kekaya,
with an armour over his body and rings in his ears." Arjuna, Bhima, Dhrstadyunma and Satyaki in single
Surya had ordained that as long as Karna wore the combat. (Chapter 32, Drona Parva) .
armour and ear-rings he would be unconquerable. (iv) Abhimanyu defeated Karna in a single combat.
Indra knew this and wanted to get Karna rid of these (Chapter 40, Drona Parva) .
so that Arjuna, his son, might gain a victory over Karna. (v) Kama made Bhlma unconscious. (Chapter 139,
Karna was reputed for his charity and Indra under the Drona Parva).
garb of a brahmin went to Karna and begged of him (vi) Karna once withdrew a bit when hit by the arrow
his ear-rings and armour. The Sun god had already of Arjuna. (Chapter 139, Drona Parva).
warned him in a dream that Indra would thus try to (vii) Karna insulted Krpacarya at one time. (Chapter
deceive him. Still Kama could not bring himself to refuse 158, Drona Parva).
any gift was asked of him and so he cut off the
that (viii Kama killed Ghatotkaca with the weapon Sakti
)
ear-rings and armour with which he was born and gave which Indra had given him in exchange for the armour
them to the Brahmana. The only request that the noble and ear-rings which he had given Indra. (Chapter 180,
Karna did make was that in separating the ornaments Drona Parva).
from his body no wound should be made. Indra did it (ix) Karna ran away from the battlefield when he
with great skill neither hurting him nor making even a heard that Drona was dead. (Chapter 193, Karna
scratch on this body. Indra bade Karna ask for any Parva) .
boon he wanted. The Sun god had also advised him to (x) Kama
was made the Generalissimo of the Kaura-
ask for a good weapon in return in case he gave away va army when Drona died. (Chapter 10, Kama Parva).
his assets and so he requested Indra the best of the (xi) Salya became the charioteer of Karna (Chapter
weapons he possessed. Indra gave him his weapon, the 86, Karna Parva) .
Sakti, called VaijayantI also. Karna had to use that (xii) The beautiful headwear
of Arjuna fell down to
KARNA II 393 KARTAV IRYARJUNA
the ground by the snake-faced arrow of Kama. (Chap- KARNIKA. One of the eleven Devakanyakas who sang
ter 90, Kama Parva) . and danced in the Janmotsava of Arjuna. The others
(xiii) When Arjuna was fighting against Karna the are: Menaka, Sahajanya, Punjikasthala, Rtusthala,
chariot-wheels of Karna sank into the ground. (Chapter GhrtacI, VisvacI, Purvacitti, Ulloca, Pramloca and
90, Karna Parva) . Urvasi. (Chapter 123, Adi Parva).
(xiv) Arjuna slew Kama. (Sloka 50, Chapter 91, KARNIKARAVANA. A forest to the north of the moun-
Karna Parva). Sumeru. All the
tain six seasons appear there at the
(xv) Karna had three sons named Citrasena, Satyasena same time and so this forest is always filled with flowers.
and Susena. All the three were killed at Kuruksetra by (Chapter Sloka 24, Bhisma Parva)
6, .
Nakula. (Slokas 19 to 50, Chapter 10, Salya Parva) . KARPARA, See under Ghata.
9) Kama goes to heaven. After his death Karna went to KARPASIKA. A country in ancient India. The maids
heaven and merged with his father, the Sun god. (Sloka of this country served in the Rajasuya of Yudhisthira.
20, Chapter 5, Svargarohana Parva). (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 51, Verse 8).
10) Names of Karna. KARSAPANA(M). (KARSIKAM). A measure of
(i) Because Karna was born with an effulgence (Vasu) weight for gold and silver in ancient India.
he was first given the name Vasusena. KARSNI. A Deva Gandharva. Mahabharata, Adi Parva,
(ii) Because he was born with Kundalas (ear-rings) Chapter 122, Verse 56 says that he participated in the
in his Karnas (ears) he was called Kama. (Chapter celebrations connected with Arjuna's birth.
302. Aranya Parva) . KARTA. A Visvadeva, (Sloka 35, Chapter 91, Arm-
(iii)
Besides these two he had many other names. s' asana Parva) .
A few are given below: KARTASVARA. An Asura. Once this Asura became
Adhirathi, Adityanandana. Adityatanaya, Angaraja, world emperor. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 227,
Angesvara, Arkaputra, Bharatarsabha, Goputra, Kaun- Verse 52) .
putra, Sutasunu, Sutasuta, Sutatanaya. Vaikartana, ravas Ayus Yayati Yadu Sahasrajit Satajit
Vaivasvata and Vrsa. Ekavira (Hehaya) Dharma Kani Bhadrasena
KARNA II. A son of Dhi-tarastra. Bhlmasena killed Dhanaka Krtavirya KartavTryarjuna.
this Kama. (Chapter 67, Bhisma 2 ) Hehaya Dynasty and Bhargava Dynasty. The Hehayas
Parva) .
KARNA HI. Younger brother of Ghanta. See under were Ksatriyas and the Bhargavas were Brahmanas.
Ghantakarna. The Bhargava sages were the family preceptors of the
KARNAKA. A barber who lived in Kasi. (Chapter 29, Hehaya Kings. The Hehayas who were generous and
Harivarhsa) .
charitable, used to give plenty of wealth to the Bharga-
KARNANIRVAHA. A sage who attained Svarga after vas. Consequently in course of time, the
Bhargavas
observing correctly the duties of Vanaprastha. (Sloka grew wealthy while the Hehayas gradually declined. In
18, Chapter 244, Santi Parva). order to tide over their difficulty, the Hehayas decided
KARNAPARVA. One of the Parvans of Mahabharata. to borrow some money from the Bhargavas. But the
See under Mahabharata. Bhargavas refused to oblige, on the plea that they had
KARNAPRAVARANA. A country of South India. The no money. The enraged Ksatriyas (Hehayas) began to
army of Duryodhana contained soldiers from this persecute the Bhrgus (Bhargavas). The Bhrgus left foi
country. (Sloka 13, Chapter 51. Bhisma Parva). the Himalayas after burying all their treasures under
the floor of their Asramas. The Ksatriyas pursued
KARNAPRAVARANA (S). An ancient tribe of people
who inhabited the shores of the sea in the south. The them and hunted them even there. At last a Brahman!
one distinctive feature of this tribe was that their ears who belonged to the Bhargava race, gave birth to a
were extraordinarily long, drooping down to the feet. sage named Aurva through her thigh. With his birth
Sahadeva conquered and subdued this tribe. (Sloka the Hehayas began to lead a less aggressive life. After
the lapse of many years, the mighty Kartavlryarjuna
67, Chapter 31, Sabha Parva) They once brought to .
Yudhisthira many valuable presents and paid their was born in the Hehaya dynasty and the mighty sage
respects to him. (Sloka 19, Chapter 52, Sabha Parva). Jamadagni was born in the Bhrgu dynasty. Both of
them nourished their hereditary feud. With his capital
KARNAPRAVARANA. A follower of Skandadeva, in the of Mahismati on the banks of the river
city
(Chapter 46, Sloka 25, Salya Parva).
Narmada, Kartaviryarjuna began his reign. (See
KARNASRAVAS. A sage who was a member of under Aurva I) .
came forward to prevent them, was beaten to death by KARUSA I. The sixth son of Vaivasvata Manu. (M.B.
Candragupta. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapters 67 to Adi P'arva, Chapter 75).
70). KARUSA. II. An ancient land. (The King of this
10) Jamadagni's Restoration to Life. Parasurama land used to suppress robbers and plunderers. He was
returned soon to the Asrama with the disciple Akrta- present at Draupadl's Svayamvara. (M.B. Adi Parva,
vrana. At the sight of his father lying dead on the floor, Chapter 185).
Parasurama cried aloud. Reriuka beat her breast KARUSA (M) A place in ancient India. Historians
.
twentyone times. Seeing this, Parasurama took a are of opinion that it is the Bundelkhanda of modern
solemn vow that he would go round the world twenty- India. The sin of Brahmahatya (killing of brahmins)
one times and extirpate the Ksatriya Kings. The sage of Indra was washed away by brahmins at this place.
Sukra appeared there with Suslla who had vanished. The place where Karisa (cowdung) from Indra fell
After restoring Jamadagni to life Sukra went back. was called Karisa and it gradually became Karusa.
11) Death of Kdrtavlryarjuna. ParaSu Rama who had (See under Aiigamalaja) .
turned himself into the very embodiment of Revenge, KARVATA. An ancient country of India. The King of
accompanied by Akrtavrana, took his stand at the gates this land was slain by Bhlmasena. (Chapter 30, Sabha
of the city of Mahismatl and challenged Kartavlr- Parva ) .
yarjuna to a fight. Kartavirya came out with a huge KASERAKA. A Yaksa. Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
army. In the terrible fight that followed, Parasurama Chapter 10, Verse 15 says that Kageraka continues to
himself with his axe (parasu) chopped off all the attend on Kubera as a member of his assembly.
thousand arms of Kartaviryarjuna. All his sons were KASERU. A lovely daughter of Tvasta, the Prajapati.
killed. Kartavirya himself fell down beheaded. This Narakasura abducted Kaseru when she was fourteen
was the end of the pillar of Hehaya dynasty. (Brahma- years old. She was one of the virgins married by Sri
nda Purana, Chapter 81) . Krsna who won a victory over Narakasura. (M.B.
\2) Kdrtavirya's sons. Kartavirya had one hundred SabhaParva, Chapter 38. Daksinatya Patha). '
sons. All of them were killed in the battle by Parasu-KASERUMAN (KASERUMAN). An Asura who
rama. Their names, as given in Chapter 76 of was a Yavana. He was slain by Sri Krsna according to
Brahmanda Purana, are given below : Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 32.
Nirmada, Rocana, Sanku, Ugrada, Dundubhi, Dhruva, KASI I. (VARANASI. BANARAS). (See under Divo-
Supars'I, Satrujit, Kraunca, Santa, Nirdaya, Antaka, dasa also) .
Akrti, Vimala, Dhlra, Niroga, Bahuti, Dama, Adhari, 1) General. One of the oldest and most popular
Vidhura, Saumya, Manasvl, Puskala, Busa, Taruna, sacred centres in India, Kasi is reputed for its Visva-
Rsabha, Rksa, Satyaka, Subala, Bali, natha temple of hoary traditions, according to one of
Ugresta,
Ugrakarma, Satyasena, Durasada, Viradhanva, Dlrgha- which the Sivalinga in the temple was installed by
bahu, Akampana, Subahu, Dirghaksa, Vartulaksa, Brahma himself. (Halasya Mahatmya) .
Carudamstra, Gotravan, Manojava, Urdhvabahu,2) Pilgrimage on foot to Kasi. Devotees from many
Krodha, Satyakirti, Duspradharsana, Satyasandha, parts of India go on pilgrimage to Kas I on foot, bathe
Mahasena, Sulocana, Raktanetra, in the holy waters of the Ganga and thus earn spiritual
Vakradarhstra,
Sudarhstra, Ksatravarma, Manonuga, DhumrakeiSa, satisfaction and release from worldly attachments. The
Pingalocana, Avyanga, Jatila, Venuman, Sanu, Pasa- reason for the above is stated in the Agni Purana as
pani, Anuddhata, Duranta, Kapila, Sambhu, Ananta, follows Once, at Kailasa Siva told ParvatI that the
:
Visvaga, Udara, Krti, Ksatrajit, Dharmi, Vyaghra, temple at Kasi was called 'Avimukta' (unreleased) as
Ghosa, Adbhuta, Puranjaya, Carana. Vagmi, VIra, it never perished, and all Japa,
tapa, homa and dana
Rathi, Govihvala, Sangramajit, Suparva, Narada,made there never cease to give auspicious results. One
Satyaketu, Satanlka, Drdhayudha, should walk on foot to Ka.il and live there. Having
Citradhanva,
Jayatsena, Virupaksa, Bhimakarma, gone there one should never leave the place. There are
Satrutapana,
Citrasena, Duradharsa Viduratha, Sura, Surasena, eight great tlrthas at Avimukta, i.e. Haris"candra tlrtha,
Dhisana, Madhu, and Jayadhvaja. Avr Stakes vara tlrtha, Japyesvara tlrtha, Sri Parva-
KARTTIKEYA. Skanda, the son of Siva. For details see tirtha, Mahalaya tlrtha, Bhrgu tlrtha, Candes'vara
under Skanda. tirtha and Kedaratlrtha. These tlrthas extend to two
KARUNA. See under Dhanafyaya. yojanas to the east of the Kasi temple and half-a-
yojana to the west of it. The river Varana is also there,
KARtJSA I. A King of Karusa. A lady of name and VaranasI is at the centre of all these. Whatever is
Bhadra.was performing penance to get this King as done at VaranasI like bath, Japa, homa, worship of
her husband when Sisupala carried her away. (Sloka
Devas, dana, obsequies for the dead, oneself living there
11, Chapter 45, SabhaParva). etc. is productive of devotion and salvation. (Agni
KAK.USA II. One of the nine sons of Vaivasvata Manu. Purana, Chapter 112).
The other sons are Iksvaku,
:
Nabhaga, Drsta, 3) References to Kasi in the Mahabharata.
Saryati, Narisyanta, Pramsunaga, Dista and Prsadhra. (i) Pandu once conquered Kasi. (Bhisma Parva,
(7th Skandha, Devi Bhagavata) .
Chapter 9).
KARUSA. III. A Yaksa. This Yaksa accompanied by (ii )
Bhlma married Balandhara, daughter of the King
his brothers performed penance on the shores of the of Kasi. (Adi Parva, Chapter 35, Verse 77).
river Kalindl, to propitiate Devi, taking in only (iii) Bhlmasena conquered Ka.4 1. (SabhaParva, Chap-
air. Devi was pleased and appearing before him in ter 30, Verse 6).
person said "You will become the lord of Manvan- (iv) Sahadeva conquered Kasi. (Udyoga Parva, Chap-
tara". (Skandhas 10 and 13, Devi Bhagavata) . ter 50, Verse 31).
J
KASI II 396 KASYAPA
(v) In the war between the Pandavas and the Kaura- But in the 14th Sarga of Aranyakanda in Valmiki
vas, the King of KasI fought on the side of the former. Ra.ma.yana there is an account of the creation of all
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 196, Verse 2) .
animate and inanimate objects in this world. According
(vi) Arjuna conquered Kasi. (Adi Parva, Chapter 122, to a statement in that passage, we find that Kasyapa
Verse 40). was the youngest brother of Marlci, Atri, Pulastya and
(vii) Sri Krsna conquered KasI. (Drona Parva, Chap- others. This means that Kasyapa was the son of Brahma.
ter 11, Verse 15). Therefore there is nothing wrong in regarding him
(viii) Karna once conquered Kasi on behalf of Duryo- either as the son or as the grandson of Brahma. In the
dhana. ( Karna Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 19). Puranas we find references to him in both ways.
(ix) Kasi had been ruled by the Kings called Haryasva. 2) Original Gotra or Clan. Mahabharata, Santi Parva,
Sudeva, and Divodasa. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 30, Chapter 297, verse 17 says that all living beings belong
Verses 12 to 15). to the four original Gotras the gotra of Angiras,
(x) King Vrsadarbha and Uslnara had ruled over Kasyapa gotra, Bhrgu gotra and Vasistha gotra and
Kasi. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 30, Verse 9). that all the other gotras came into existence subse-
(xi) Bhisma conquered KaJI during the Svayarhvara of quently.
Amba. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 44, Verse 38) .
3) Kasyapa's wives.Kasyapa had 21 wives who were:
(xii) The horse sent out in connection with Yudhis- Aditi, Dili, Danu, Arista, Surasa. Khasa, Surabhi,
thira's Asvamedha passed through Kib'i also. (Asva- Vinata, Tamra, Krodhavasa, Ira, Kadru, Muni,
medha Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 14). Puloma, Kalaka, Nata, Danayus, Simhika, Pradha,
( xiii) For the origin
of the name Kas I see under Divodasa. Visva, and Kapila. Of these, the 13 wives, Aditi, Dili,
KASI II. An inhabitant-citizen-of Kasi. (Bhisma Parva, Kalaka, Danayus, Danu, Simhika, Krodha, Pradha,
Chapter 106, Verse 18). Viiva, Vinata, Kapila, Muni and Kadru, were the
KASI III. A son of Kaviprajapati. (Anusasana Parva, daughters of Daksa.
Chapter 85, Verse 133). Of these the first wife Aditi had 12 sons. These 12 sons
KASlKA. A famous charioteer on the Pandava side namely Visnu, Sakra, Aryama, Dhata, Tvasfa, Pusa,
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 171, Verse 15). Vivasvan, Savita, Mitra, Varuna, Arhsa and Bhaga are
KASISVARA TlRTHA. A sacred place on the banks of called Adityas (sons of Aditi). In the sixth Manvantara
river Ambumati on the borders of Kuruksetra. A bath these 12 Adityas belonged to the tribe known as Tusitas.
in the river redeems one from all sins and raises one to (The present Manvantara is the seventh one). The 33
Brahmaloka. (Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 57) . crores of Devas came into being from the twelve
KASMlRA (KASMIRAKAM). A state in North India, Adityas.
Kasmlra was famous during the Mahabharata period The Daityas were born from Kasyapa's second wife
also. Once Arjuna conquered this state (Sabha Parva, Dili. The chief Daityas are Hiranyakasipu, Hiranyaksa
Chapter 27) People from the state had attended Yudhis-
. and Simhika. All the other Daityas were born from
thira's Rajasuya with many articles of presentation. Sri them.
Krsna once defeated its ruler. (Drona Parva, Chapter The Danavas were the children of Danu, another wife
11, Verse 16). Parasurama also once defeated its ruler. of Kasyapa. Dvimurdha, Sambara, Ayomukha, Sanku-
(Drona Parva, Chapter 70, Verse 11). siras, Kapila, Sankara, Ekacakra, Mahabahu, Taraka,
KASMlRAMAI^DALAM. A particular place in Kasmlra Mahabala, Svarbhanu, Vrsaparva, Puloma, and Vipra-
where once a conference of sages was held. (Vana cittiare the famous Danavas. The other Danavas were
Parva, Chapter 203) Besides all the prominent sages
. the children of the people mentioned above.
of North India, distinguished persons like Nahusa, Another wife of Kasyapa, Surabhi gave birth to Aja,
Yayati, Asi and Kasyapa attended the conference. Ekapad, Ahirbuddhnya, Tvasta and Rudra and also
Rivers Jhelam and Chenab flow through this place, and theEkadasa Rudras namely: Hara, Bahurupa, Tryam-
it is a holy centre. Those who bathe here will become baka, Aparajita, Vrsakapi, Sambhu, KapardI ,Raivata,
like sages. Mrgavyadha, Sarpa, and KapalT. Vinata gave birth to
KASTORlGANDHl. Another name for Kali (Matsya- Garuda and Kadru was the mother of the nagas. The
gandhl) or Satyavati, the mother of Vyasa. To know Puranas proclaim that all living beings that we see in
how she got this name, see under Satyavati. the world today, sprang from Kasyapa's offsprings by
KASYA I. A
famous King of Kasi ; father of Amba, his different wives. (Valmiki Ramayana, Bala Kanda,
Ambika and Ambalika. He was also called Krodha- Chapter 29; Visnu Purana. Part I,' Chapters 15-21;
vasa. According to Chapter 171 of Udyoga Parva, Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapters 16 and 65 and
KaSya's real name was Senabindu. Agni Purana, Chapter 18).
KASYA II. One of the great sages who visited Bhisma 4) Brahma taught Kasyapa cure for snake poison. The ser-
on his bed of arrows. (Sand Parva, Chapter 47, pents (Nagas) were born to Kadru, one of the wives
Verse 10). of Kasyapa. Once Kadru asked her children to hang
KASYAPA I. Chief among the Prajapatis. down like hair from the tail of Uccaissravas. They
1 Katyapa Son or Grandson of Brahma ? It is impossible
)
refused to do so. Kadru became angry and cursed them
to give a definite answer to this question. In Maha- that they would be burnt alive at Janamejaya's Sarpa
bharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 65, we see that six spirit- Sattra (snake-sacrifice) .After the curse, the Nagas
ual sons Marlci, Angiras, Atri, Pulastya, Pujaha and became dangerously venomous. At this stage, Brahma
Kratu were born to Brahma. Kasyapa was born as taught Kasyapa the art of curing snake-poison to
the son of Marlci and that all living beings in the procect other creatures that might be bitten by the
world took their origin from Kasyapa. According to Nagas. Cure of snake-bite in this world dates from
this statement, Kasyapa is the grandson of Brahma. that time. (M.B. Adi Parva. Chapter 20) .
KASYAPA I 397 KASYAPA I
5) Kasy pa and Garuda. Garuda is a mighty son of alone was not available. Kasyapa solved the problem
Kasyapa by his wife Vinata. Vinata made a bet with by stealing a cow from Varuna's cattle-shed. Aditi and
her sister Kadru. Kadru won the bet. Vinata became Surasa concealed it in the At'rama. Enraged at the
Kadru's maid-servant as a result of the bet. To be theft of his cow, Varuna complained to Brahma. A
relieved of this bondage Vinata's son Garuda had to curse was pronounced by Brahma and Varuna that as
bring Amrta from Devaloka and give it to Kadru and a punishment for stealing and hiding the cow, Kasyapa
her Naga-sons. Garuda agreed and flew up to Heaven should be reborn as a cowherd and Aditi and Surasa
to fetch Amrta. should be reborn as the cowherd's wives. It was by
On the way, he visited his father Kasyapa who was this curse that Kasyapa, Aditi and Surasa were reborn
performing penance on the Gandhamadana mountain. as Vasudeva Devaki and Rohim respectively. (Devi
He asked his father to give him some food, as he was Bhagavata, 4th Skandha).
very hungry. Kasyapa told him the following story: 7) Parasurama' s gift of land to Kasyapa. Parasurama
"Long ago a sage named Vibhavasu lived near this place. performed a Yaga after exterminating all Ksatriya
He and his younger brother named Supratika began to Kings. At that Yaga he gifted all the lands he had
quarrel over the sharing of their father's wealth. The conquered till then to Kasyapa. In Mahabharata,
elder brother transformed the younger brother into an Aranya Parva, Chapter 117, there is a reference to this
elephant by a curse and the younger brother turned gift.
the elder into a ,tortoise by his curse. They are still 8) Kasyapa and Kerala. After Parai urama
went round
living in yonder lake as elephant and tortoise and the world eighteen times and
exterminated the
continue like enemies. If you eat both of them, you will Ksatriya Kings he performed a Yaga. At that Yaga he
be strong enough to fight against the Devas and get gave the whole earth as daksina to Kasyapa. After that,
possession of Amrta for yourself." Kasyapa drove away Paras urama from the earth to
On hearing this, Garuda went to the lake and caught the south. Taking pity on Parasurama, the ocean
gave
the elephant and tortoise in his claws and flew up into him the region known as "Surparaka". Kasyapa seized
the sky. The mountains began to tremble and a whirl- Surparaka also from Parasurama and gave it to
wind swept the Heavens when Garuda beat with his Brahmanas. Parasurama went to the forests after it.
wings. He flew about here and there unable to find a Later on, intermixture of castes took place in this
region
convenient place to sit and enjoy his meal. On the way, and anarchy prevailed there. At one time,
Surparaka
his eye caught sight of a huge banyan tree spreading its sank down
into Patala (lower world) Kasyapa who
.
branches far and wide, to a distance of 100 yojanas saw this held the earth up, brought Ksatriyas from the
around it. When he perched on one of its branches north and made them rulers of the country. (M.B.
with the elephant and tortoise, the branch broke and Santi Parva, Chapter 49) . This "Surparaka" is believed
fell down. From that branch certain sages known as to be Kerala.
Balakhilyas were hanging with their heads downwards. 9) Other Details about Kasyapa.
So, to prevent them from falling to the ground, Garuda (i) Kasyapa arrived at the place of Arjuna's birth
lifted it in his beak and began to fly up again. Unable accompanied by other sages. (Mahabharata, Adi
to find a suitable spot where he could deposit the Parva, Chapter 122) .
branch with the sages, Garuda returned to his father (ii) Kasyapa flourished in Brahma's assembly. (M.B.
again. At the request of Kasyapa, the Balakhilyas went Sabha Parva, Chapter 11).
to the Himalayas. He showed Garuda a vast, snow- (iii) Once there was a dispute between Virocana, the
clad mountain on which he could deposit the broken son of Prahlada and Sudhanva, the son of Aiigiras. It
branch he was carrying. Garuda flew to that mountain was Kasyapa who settled this dispute. (See the 5th
and ate up the elephant and tortoise and thus gained Para under the word Arigiras).
strength to fight with the Devas for Amrta. After that (iv) Once Kasyapa went on a pilgrimage in the
he proceeded to Heaven. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapters company of Yudhisfhira. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
29-31). 85).
6) Other Birth of Kasyapa. In Caksusa Manvantara, the
(v) Once Brahma gifted the entire earth to Kasyapa
sage Sutapas performed a penance along with his wife at a Yajna. BhurnidevI (Goddess of the
Prsni for 12,000 years. Lord Visnu appeared to them earth) who
was distressed at it, went to Patala and to began
and asked what boon they wished to ask. They prayed
lament. At that time Kasyapa propitiated the
that the Lord should take birth as their son. Visnu goddess
by his austere penance. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
granted their prayer and was born as their son.
In the next Manvantara (the period of 114).
Vaivasvata
After Paras uramahad given the entire earth to
Manu) Sutapas and Prgni were re-born as
Kasyapa (vi)
and Aditi respectively. At that time also Mahavisnu Kasyapa, Kasyapa drove away Parasurama from the
was born to Aditi as Vamana. (See under Vamana). earth. Parasurama then shot an arrow into the sea
and converted that portion of the sea into land. (M.B.
In this birth, Kasyapa had many other wives besides
Aditi. Surasa was one of those wives. (Bhagavata, 10th Drona Parva, Chapter 70, Verses 18 and 19).
Skandha ) . (vii ) When the war between Kauravas and Pandavas
It was this Kasyapa himself who was reborn as Vasu- was in progress, Kasyapa approached Drona and
deva and Aditi became Devaki. Surasa was born as wanted him to bring the battle to a close.
(M.B.
RohinT, another wife. There is another reason for Drona Parva, -Chapter 190).
Kasyapa and Aditi to take birth for the third time. (viii) Kasyapa was also present with other sages at
Once Kasyapa had prepared to perform a Yaga. All the time of Skanda's birth. (M.B. Salya
Parva, Chapter
arrangements were complete. But the sacrificial cow 45) .
KASYAPA II 398 KATVAKU
(ix) Kasyapa once gave some pieces of advice to From the above facts it may be understood that Kanva
Pururavas. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 73) . was born as a prince, and that later on, he became a
(x) In the 8th verse of Chapter 208
of Santi Parva, in sage. Moreover, the Agni Purana says that Santurodha,
Mahabharata, we find that Kasyapa had another name the brother of Kanva's father, was the father of
Dusyan-
ta. According to that Kasyapa and
Aristaiiemi. Dusyanta were the
to Bhisma, the story of sons of brothers, Kasyapa being that of the elder one.
(xi) KaSyapa once related
Mahavisnu's Varahavatara. (Incarnation as Boar). For the time being the above are the only reasonable
(M.B. S'finti Parva, Chapter 209, Verse 6). inferences, and the truth has to be found out by further
(xii) Bhasa Bharata says that gingelly seeds were first researches. But, one thing is certain according to the
introduced into this world from sage Kasyapa's body. genealogy, that Kasyapa was born twenty generations
(M. B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 66, Verse 10) . after Kasyapa.
(xiii) Kasyapa explained to Vrsadarbhi, the evil of 3). The story is told in the 2nd
Kasyapa and Takfaka.
receiving pratigraha (presents) (M.B. Anusasana
. Skandha of Devi Bhagavata and in the Adi Parva of
Parva, Chapter 93) . Bharata that Taksaka set out to bite King Parlksit and
(xiv) Ka:'.yapa once spoke to ArundhatI about the Kasyapa to cure him of Taksaka's poison, but that
weakness of his body. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter Taksaka bribed Kasyapa off his mission to save the
93, Verse 65) . King. But, the story as such is unfounded. It was Kas"-
(xv) At another time, Agastya suspected that Kasyapa yapa and not Kasyapa whom Brahma had taught the
had stolen his lotus. But Kasyapa swore that he was science of the treatment and cure of poison (see under
innocent. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 94). Kasyapa) and, therefore, it should be Kasyapa whom
(xvi) In Bhasa Bharata it is said that Kasyapa was Taksaka bribed.
one of the Sap ta Gurus (seven Preceptors) of Kubera. 4) .
Kasyapa and Sakuntald. See under KA VA. .
The other six Gurus were Vasistha, Atri, Gautama, 5). Kasyapa and Rsyasrhga. Father of Rsyasriiga was
Bharadvaja, Visvamitra and Jamadagni. M.B. Anusa- one Kasyapa; may be Kasyapa or Kasyapa. The great-
sana Parva, Chapter 150). er possibility is for
Kasyapa to be the father. (See
(xvii) In Bhagavata we see that Kasyapa and other under RSYASRftGA) .
sages were instrumental in bringing about the destruc- 6). After a Yajfta Visvakarman made a land-gift to
tion of Yadu Vamsa. (For further details see under Kasyapa once. (See under KANVA) .
correct. Kanva was not born in the dynasty of Kasyapa. KASYAPl. (Earth). The earth came to be known as
The genealogy of Kasyapa is as follows: Kasyapi as it had been given as a gift to Kas"yapa by
2). Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus: Brahma Paras' urama.
Atri Candra Budha Pururavas Ayus Nahusa "The whole of the earth was given to Kasyapa and thus
it came to be called Kasyapi". (Brahmanda Purana,
Yayati Puru Janamejaya Pracinvan Pravlra
Namasyu Vltabhaya Sundu Bahuvidha Sarhyati Chapter 89).
Rahovadi RaudrasVa - - Matinara Pritiratha KATHAKA. A soldier of Skanda. (Sloka 67, Chapter
Medhatithi Kanva (Kasyapa). 45, Salya Parva).
Medhatithi was Kanva's father. (Santi Parva, KATHASARITSAGARA. See under BRHATKATHA.
Chapter 208, Verse 27) According to the Agni
. KATHOPANISAD. See under NACIKETAS.
Purana a son called Kanva was born (Kasyapa) KATVAKU (KHATVAKU) A son of Vaivasvata Manu.
.
to Medhatithi, son of King Pritiratha of the Puru Brahmanda Purana states that he was an ancestor of
dynasty. But, nothing about the family matters of Iksvaku.
Kanva is mentioned therein. In the Mahabharata itself In the beginning
Manu, alias Vaivasvata, had a son
the name Kas"yapa is often used instead of Kanva. named Kafvaku. He was the of kings and he ruled
first
KATYAYANA 399 KAURAVA(S)
the world for a long time. On the banks of the river Cakroddhata Devatithi Rksa Bharata Pratica
Sarayu he constructed a city called Ayodhya. Ayodhya Santanu. Santanu had two wives Ganga and Satyavati.
was celebrated for its beauty and wise men proclaimed Bhisma was born of Ganga. Vyasa was born to Satya-
that it was more beautiful than the cities of the eight vati before her marriage, from the hermit Parasara.
guards of the universe or the city of even Brahma, the After the marriage, from Santanu, two sons Citrangada
Creator. and Vicitravirya were born to her. A Gandharva killed
KATYAYANA I. A grammarian who wrote a comment- Citrangada. Bhisma brought the three daughters of the
ary on Panini's grammatical work entitled Astadhyayi. King of Kasi, Amba, Ambika and Ambalika. as wives
He has also written Srauta Sutras and a book on of Vicitravirya, but on the way knowing that Amba was
"Dharma Sastra". in love with the King of Salva, she was sent back.
KATYAYANA. II. Kathasaritsagara says that "Katya- Ambika and Ambalika became the wives of Vicitravirya.
yana" was another name of Vararuci. Shortly Vicitravirya also died. With a view to continue
KATYAYANA. III. A
great sage who flourished in the royal family, Satyavati sent for Vyasa, so that he
Indra's assembly. We see a reference to him in Maha- might beget children of Ambika and Ambalika. At
bharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 19). the time of coition Ambika closed her eys to avoid
KATYAYANl. One of the two wives of Yajnavalkya. seeing the uncouth face of Vyasa. So she got as son
After withdrawing completely from worldly activities, Dhrtarastra who was blind from birth. Seeing the ugly
Yajnavalkya asked his wives to divide his worldly assets figure of Vyasa Ambalika turned pale and so the son
equally between them. But MaitreyT the other wife, being born to her was pale in colour. He was called Pandu.
of a deeply spiritual nature, KatyayanI herself had to From Dhrtarastra, Duryodhana and his brothers were
undertake the burden of all the material affairs. (Brha- born and from Pandu were born the Pandavas. All
daranyakopanisad) . members born in the family of Kuru were known as
KAUKUHAKA. An ancient country in South India. Kauravas. But later, the sons of Dhrtarastra came to be
(M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 60) . known by the name 'Kauiavas'.
KAUKULIKA. An attendant of Skandadeva. (M.B. 2) The origin of Kauravas. (Duryodhana and his bro-
Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 15). thers) Dhrtarastra married Gandhari the daughter of
.
KAUMODAKl. The club of Sri Krsna. It is mentioned Subala the King of Gandhara. Once Vyasa reached the
in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 224, Stanza 23, palace weary with hunger and thirst. Gandhari gave
that this club was given to Sri Krsna by Varuna the Vyasa food and drink. Vyasa was pleased with her and
god of water, at the time of the burning of the forest told her that she might ask for any boon. She said that
Khandava. she wanted to get hundred sons from Dhrtarastra.
KAUNAPA. A serpent born in the family of Vasuki. Vyasa granted the boon. Gandhari became pregnant.
This serpent was burnt to death in the Sarpa Sattra Even after two years she did not deliver. She heard that
(sacrificial fire to kill serpents) of Janamejaya. (M.B. KuntI, the wife of Pandu had given birth to a child.
Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Stanza 6). Gandhari became sad. She crushed her womb and gave
KAUNAPASANA. A famous serpent born in the family of birth to a lump of flesh. Understanding this, Vyasa
Kaurava. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 35, Stanza 14). came there and cutting the lump into hundred and one
KAUNDINYA I. See under Mitrabheda. pieces kept them in ghee-pots. Advising Gandhari to
KAUND1NYA II. A hermit who lived in the Palace of keep the pots in secret, Vyasa went to the Himalayas.
Yudhisthira. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza The pots were broken at the proper time and hundred
16). See under Dhrstabuddhi. sons and a daughter came out. Besides them Dhrta-
KAUNDINYA III. A hermit. This hermit had erected his rastra had another son named Yuyutsu by a Vaisya
hermitage in Hastimatlsabhramatlsangama and lived woman.
there. Once due to excess of rain the river flooded and The hundred and one sons of Dhrtarastra beginning with
his hermitage was washed away. So the hermit cursed Duryodhana are the Kauravas.
the river. "Let the river be dried up". Then he went 3 ) Names of the Kauravas.
to the realm of Vaikuntha. (Padma Purana, Uttara Duryodhana, Dussasana, Dussaha. Dussala, Jalagandha,
Khanda, Chapter 145). Sama, Saha, Vinda, Anuvinda, Durdharsa, Subahu, Dus-
KAWIKUTSYA. A noble Brahmin. It is mentioned pradharsana, Durmarsana, Durmukha, Duskarna, Karna,
in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 8, Stanza 25, that Vikarna, Sala, Sattva, Sulocana, Citra, Upacitra, Citra-
this Brahmin visited Pramadvara who died of snake- ksa, Carucitra, Sarasana, Durmada, Durvigaha, Vivitsu,
bite. Vikatanana, Urnanabha, Sunabha, Nanda, Upananda,
KAURAVA (S) .
Citrabana, Citravarma, Suvarma, Durvimrca, Ayo-
1) General Information. Those who were born in the bahu, Mahabahu, Citranga, Citrakundala,, Bhlmavega,
family of the famous King Kuru. Descended in the Bhimabala, Valaki, Balavardhana, Ugrayudha, Susena,
following order from Visnu Brahma Atri Candra
:
Kundadhara, Mahodara, Citrayudha, NisangI, PasI,
Budha Pururavas Ayus -Nahusa Yayati Puru Vrndaraka, Drdhavarma, Drdhaksatra, Somakirti,
Janamejaya Pracinvan Pravira Namasyu Vltabh- Anudara, Drdhasandha, Jarasandha, Satyasandha,
aya Sundu Bahuvidha Samyati Rahovadl Raud- Sadasuvak, Ugra^ravas, Ugrasena, SenanI, Duspara-
ras"va Matiniira Santurodha Dusyanta Bharata jaya, Aparajita, Kundasayl, Visalaksa, Duradhara,
Suhotra Suhota Gala Garda Suketu Brhat- Drdhahasta, Suhasta, Vatavega, Suvarcas, Adityaketu,
ksetra Hasti Ajamidha Rksa Sarhvarana Kuru. BahvasI, Nagadatta, Ugrasayi, Kavaci, Krathana
This is the genealogy of Kuru. From Kuru the genea- Kundi, Bhimavikrama, Dhanurdhara, Vlrabahu, Alo,-
logy continues as follows Jahnu Suratha
: Vidura- lupa, Abhaya Drdhakarman, Drdharathasraya, Ana-
;
tha Sarvabhauma Jayatsena Ravaya Bhavuka dhrsya, Kundabhedl, Viravi, Citrakundala, Pramatha,
KAURAVYA 400 KAUSIKA VI
Apramathin, Dirgharoman, Suviryavan, Dirghabahu, Brahmin sat under a tree and performed penance. A small
Suvarma, Kancanadhvaja, Kundaiin, Virajas, and crane which sat on a branch of the tree passed excreta
Yuyutsu. Dusiala (daughter). (Mahabharata. Adi Parva, on the head of the Brahmin. He became angry and
Chapters 67 and 117). (For further details about the looked at the bird. Instantly the bird was reduced to
Kauravas see under Duryodhana and Dugiasana) . ashes. The Brahmin sincerely repented and went to the
KAURAVYA. A noble serpent which was born of Aira- countryside to live on alms. Once he reached the house
vata. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 218, Stanza 18). of a Brahmin. The wife of the Brahmin came to the
KAUSALA (KAUSALA). Skandadeva once changed door and requested him to wait a bit. Immediately her
the shape of his face to that of the face of goat. Then husband arrived, and she, being engaged in looking
he got the name Kausala. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter after the needs of her husband forgot the Brahmin
228, Stanza I). Kausika, who became angry and spoke cruel words to
KAUSALYA I. A queen of King Dasaratha and mother her. She argued that the noblest deed was looking after
of Sri Rama. Dasaratha had three wives Kausalya, one's husband and that it was not meet and right for
Kaikeyl and Sumitra. Kausalya gave birth to Sri Rama, Brahmins to get angry. She advised Kausika to go to
Kaikeyi to Bharata and Sumitra to Laksmana and Mithilapuri and to receive advice from the famous
Satrughna. (Valmlki Ramayana, Bfila Kanda, Sarga Dharmavyadha. Kausika repented his rash nature,
16). went to Dharmavyadha and received advice from him.
KAUSALYA II. Queen of the King of Kasi. Amba, He returned home and lived peacefully with his parents.
Ambika, and Ambalika were daughters of this Kausalya. (M.B. Vana Parva, ten chapters from 206).
Of these daughters Ambalika also was called Kausalya. Though a man of veracity, he finally had to go to hell,
After the death of Pandu she went to the forest with for the following reason. While he was engaged in
Ambika. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 129) .
penance in the forest some thieves came by that way with
KAUSALYA III. The queen of a Yadava King. She some stolen goods. The owners of the goods were chasing
was the mother of the Yadava named Keg in. (Devi the thieves. Kausika told them the way by which the
Bhagavata, Skandha 9) . thieves had gone. So at the end Kausika was thrown
KAUSALYA IV. Wife of Puru, the son of King Yayati. into hell. (M.B. Kama Parva, Chapter 69).
Janamejaya was born to Puru of his wife Kausalya. KAUSlKA V. A King of the Puru dynasty. Kapila
was
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Stanza 11). his fatherand Grtsapati was his brother. The four
KAUSALYA V. The queen of Janaka, the King of castes Brahmana, Ksatriya, Vaisya and Sudra originat-
Mithila. Once King Janaka decided to sell his palace ed from Grtsapati. (Agni Purana, Chapter 278) .
and everything he possessed and to goabeggingfor alms. KAUSlKA VI. A hermit. This ancient hermit lived in
But his brave wife Kausalya convinced her husband by Kuruksetra. His sons Svasrpa, Krodhana, Hirhsra,
her reasonable arguments that he should not venture to Pifuna, Kavi, Vagdusta, and Pitrvarttl lived with
do so. Thus she prevented her husband from carrying hermit Garga for learning under him. Their names
out his decision. indicated their character. Their father died. The sons
KAUSALYA. A teacher, who belonged to the line of were in poverty. At this time rain ceased altogether.
disciples of Vyasa. Jaimini was the disciple of Vyasa. Garga asked his disciples to take his milch cow to the
Sumantu was the son of Jaimini. A son named Sutva, forest for grazing. Owing to hunger the brothers decid-
was born to Sumantu. Sukarman was the son of Sutva. ed to kill and eat the cow. But the youngest said: ''If
Sukarman had two disciples Hiranyanabha. and Paus- you are bent on killing the cow, we had better make
piftji. Kausalya was another name of Hiranyanabha. use of it as an offering to the Manes, and no sin will
(Visnu Purana, Arhsa 3, Chapter 6). visit us."
KAUSAMBl. Four sons, Kusamba, Kusanabha, Asurta- All agreed to this and Pitrvarttl killed the cow and
rajas and Vasu were born to Kusa, the son of Brahma, began the sacrifice. Two elder brothers were employed
of his wife the princess of Vidarbha. According to the in worshipping the gods and three were detailed to give
order of their father each prince built a city and began offerings to the manes. One was asked to be the guest.
to rule over it. city built by Kusamba.
Kausambiis the Pitrvarttl was the sacrificer. Remembering the
KuSanabha built the city of
Mahodayapura Asurta- ;
ancestors with reverence he began the sacrifice in
rajas, the city of Dharmaranya and Vasu the city of accordance with the rites. Thus the seven hermits ate
Girivraja. (Valmlki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Sarga 32) . the cow and told Garga that the cow was caught by a
It is mentioned in Kathasaritsagara that the city of Kau- tiger.'
sambi stood in the middle of the kingdom of Vatsa and In due course the seven of them died, and took rebirth
that Udayana born of the family of the Pandavas had as rude low-caste people in Daf'apura. Because of the
once ruled this country with Kausambi as his capital. sacrifice and offerings to the Manes they had the
KAUSlKA I. See under Visvamitra.
(Visvamitra) . remembrance of their previous birth. So they feared
KAUSlKA II. A
hermit who lived in the palace of god and took fast and vow at a holy bath and in the
Yudhisthira. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Udyoga presence of a multitude cast off their lives and were
Parva, Chapter 83, that while going to Hastinapura, born again as animals in Kalanjara hills. Because of
Sri Krsna met this hermit on the way. their abstinence due to knowledge they cast off their
KAUSlKA III. A minister of Jarasandha. It is mention- lives by Prapatana (jumping down from the top of the
ed in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Stanza 22, that he mountain) and were born again as Ruddy geese, in the
had another name Hamsa also. Manasasaras whentheir names were Sumanas, Kusuma,
KAUSlKA IV. While the Pandavas were leading forest Vasu, CitradarsI, Sudam, Jiiata and Jnanaparaga
life, the hermit Markandeya told the story of a noble names conforming to their character. The seven brothers
Brahmin named Kausika, to Dharmaputra. Once this became pure and sinless by their union with God the
KAUSlKA VI 401 KAUTSA
Supreme Spirit. But three of them fell out of the union of wealth and villages and sent him away contented.
because of their desire. They saw the pleasurable life After anointing his son Visvaksena as King, Brahmadatta
led by Anuha the King of Pancala who was immensely and his retinue went to Manasasaras for penance.
wealthy with many beautiful wives. At the sight of this, For a while they lived in the forest engaged in penance
one of the geese the Brahmin Pitrvartti, who performed and then cast off their lives and entered the world of
the sacrifice of offering to the Manes because of his love Supreme bliss. (Padma Purana, Part 3, Chapter 10).
for his father wished to become a king. Seeing the two KAUSIKAVII. A King. This king became a cock at
wealthy ministers who led luxurious lives, two of the night. His wife Visala was filled with grief at this
ruddy geese wanted to become ministers. Accordingly transfiguration of her husband in the night. She
Pitrvartti was born as Brahmadatta the son of Vaibh- told her grief to the hermitGalava who told the queen
raja and the other two as sons of ministers with names about the previous birth of her husband as follows :
Pundarika and Subalaka. Brahmadatta was anointed "In the previous birth he used to eat cocks to get
as King of Pancala in the great city of Kampilya. That strength.Knowing this Tamracuda the king of fowls
King was mighty, loving his father well, always desirous cursed him."You shall become a cock during nights."
of giving offerings to Manes and harmonious with God, That is why your husband has become a cock."
having the ability to read the hearts of every living According to the advice of the hermit the King began
being. He married Sannati the daughter of Sudeva. to worship Lord Siva and he was liberated from the
This woman in her previous birth was the cow of curse. (Skanda Purana).
Garga. As this cow was used as offering to the Manes KAUSlKA. (GOMATl). A river. The hermitage of
she got rebirth as a religious-minded woman and be- Visvamitra stood on the bank of this river. The modern
came the queen of Brahmadatta, who ruled over the name of river Kaus ika is Kosi. The river KosT flows
kingdom well for a long time. through Bihar. Those who bathe in this river will
Once the King and the queen were walking in the obtain remission of sins. See under Gomatl. (M.B. Vana
garden when they saw two ants which were quarrelling Parva, Chapter 84).
with each other. They were husband and wife. After KAUSlKACARYA. The king Akrti. It is mentioned in
a time the quarrel ended and they grew more loving Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 21, that this King
than before and the she-ant pressed closely against her ruled over Saurastra and was known also by the name
husband. Brahmadatta hearing their conversation stood Kausikacarya.
smiling. He could understand the language of every KAUSlKAKUNDA. A holy place. It is mentioned in
living being because of the merits of his previous births. Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Stanza 142
When the King smiled his wife asked him for the rea- that ViSvamitra got his attainments in this place.
son. He
described to his wife the quarrel of the ant- KAUSlKASRAMA. A holy place. It was at this place
couple. The queen did not believe his words. She that Amba, the daughter of King of Kas I performed a
thought that the King had been making fun of her. severe penance. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 156,
She asked him how he learned the language of birds Stanza 27) .
and beasts. But the King could not give an answer and KAUSlKYARUtfASA&GAMA. A holy place. It is stated
he became thoughtful. The remaining four of the ruddy in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 84 that if a
geese took rebirth as the sons of a poor Brahmin in the man confluence of Kausiki and
fasts in this place, the
same city of Kampilya. They had the remembrance of Aruna rivers he will be absolved of all his sins.
previous births. Their names were Dhrtiman, Sarva- KAUSTUBHA. A brilliant precious stone. It is mention,
darsi, Vidyacandra and Tapodhika, names befitting ed in Agni Purana, Chapter 3 Valmiki Ramayana
;
their character. They decided to perform severe penance Balakanda Sarga 45, Stanza 39 and Mahabharata, Adi
to attain Supreme bliss, and were about to get away Parva that this precious stone floated up at the time of
from the house when, their father, the poor Brahmin the churning of the sea of Milk. This jewel which
cried bitterly, being helpless. They taught their father originated from the ghee in the sea of Milk, was worn
the following poem and advised him to recite the poem on the breast by Visnu.
before the King the next morning, in order to get plenty "This divine jewel called Kaustubha came up in the
of wealth. middle of ghee and stayed in the breast of Visnu,
"Noble Brahmins in Kuruksetra spreading its rays everywhere." (M.B. Adi Parva,
The seven foresters in Dasapura Chapter 18, Stanza 37) .
births and fell down with grief. The three of them KAUTILYA. See under Canakya.
lamented about their fall from the union with the Sup- KAUTSA. A noble Brahmin scholar. He was present at
reme Spirit. Brahmadatta gave that old Brahmin plenty the sarpa-sattra (sacrificial fire to kill
serpents) of
KAUTSYA 402 KAYASODHANAT IRTHA
Janamejaya. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 53, Stanza 6). sacrificial fire at the famous Yaga of Brahma. Of them
KAUTSYA (KAUTSA). A hermit who was the disciple Brahma made Kavi his own son. This Kavi had eight
of Varatantu. When he had completed his education sons known as the Varunas. One of them was named
he asked his teacher what gift he desired. The teacher Kavi and another was named Kavya.
said that he wanted fourteen crores of gold coins as KAVI V. Rgveda, 1st Mandala, I7th Anuvaka. 116th
gift. Kautsya approached
the emperor Raghu. The Sukta refers to a blind sage named Kavi.
emperor had just finished a sacrifice called Visvajit and KAVIRAjA. A Sanskrit poet who lived in India in the
had emptied his treasury by giving away all the 12th Century A. D. His chief works are "Raghavapanda-
wealth he had as alms. Only pots made of wood were vlya" and "Parijataharana". His real name was
left as his wealth. When the emperor heard about the Madhavabhatta.
need of Kautsya he decided to conquer the capital city KAVISA. A sage. There was a person named Kavisa
of Kubera. That night Kubera filled the treasury of among the sages who came to visit Sri Rama when he
Raghu by a shower of gold. The emperor Raghu gave returned after his life in the forest. The sages who
Kautsya fourteen crores of gold coins. (Raghuvarhsa). came there from the western country were, Vrsaiigu,
KAVACA. A sage in the assembly of Indra. (M.B. Kavisa, Dhaumya, Raudreya, Narada, Vamadeva,
Sabha Parva, Chapter 7) He was one of the sages of
.
Saubhari, Astfivakra, Suka, Bhrgu, LomaSa, and
the western part. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 208, Maudgalya. (U ttara Ramayana ) .
Parva,Chapter 67, Verse 103). In Mahabharata, KAVYA (M). Agni Purana, Chapters 390 to 400
Karna Parva, Chapter 84, it is said that he was killed contain a discussion on poetry, which is the basis for
by Bhimasena. literary criticism in India. The above discussion in
KAVERI. A holy river in South India. Famous sacred Agni Purana, comprehends the forms and features of
places like Sriranga and Kumbhakona are on its banks. poetry, rasa (sentiment), style, the art of acting and
The Devi of the river lives in Varuna's assembly the drama, and other matters related to poetry and
worshipping him. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 20) . art.
The Skanda Purana has the following story as to how KAVYAMATA. Mother of Sukra, the preceptor of the
Kaveri came down to earth :
Daityas.
1
Kavyamata possessed extraordinary powers
Once Agastya propitiated Siva at Kailasa and sought of penance. In the Devi Bhagavata the following story
the boon of some water for him to found a sacred place isgiven; how she cursed Visnu and how she made
on earth. At the same time Kaveri also was worship- Visnu and Indra powerless.
ping Siva. Siva filled Agastya's bowl with Kaveri water. Once a fierce war was fought by the Devas and the
Agastya, on his way back from Kailasa cursed the Asuras in which the latter got defeated, and they sought
Raksasa called Kraunca and kicked the Vindhya the help of Sukracarya. But, as the Devas enjoyed the
mountain down. (See under Agastya). After over- support of Visnu, Sukra could not do anything for the
coming various difficulties Agastya at last reached asuras, and he therefore advised them to get on some-
South India. He sat in meditation with the bowl of how or other for some time. After that Sukra went to
Kaveri water before him, and then, at the request of Kailasa and performed penance, hanging head down-
Indra, Ganapati, in the guise of a crow came and sat wards, for a thousand years to secure rare and ex-
on the brink of the bowl and upset it. The water in ceptional mantras. During this period the Devas again
the bowl flowed as a river, and that river is the attacked the Asuras, who ran up to Kavyamata for
present Kaveri. (Asurakanda, Skanda Purana). succour, and she, by one glance, sent the Devas to
KAVI. I. A son of Vaivasvata Manu. Vivasvanwas the long sleep. She reduced Visnu and Indra also to a
son of Kasyapa and Aditi. Vaivasvata Manu was the state of paralysis. Then Visnu meditated upon the
son of Vivasvan. Manu had sixteen sons who were Sudars ana Cakra, which arrived immediately and with
Manu, Yama, Yami, Asvimkumaras, Revanta, Sudyu- the Cakra he cut off Kavyamata's head. Sage Bhrgu
mna, Iksvaku, Nrga, Saryati, Dista, Dhrsta, Karusa, then appeared on the scene and brought back Kavya-
Narisyanta, Nabhaga, Prsadhra and Kavi. mata to life, and she, in furious rage cursed that Visnu
KAVI II. There is a reference to a sage named Kavi should take many births. As a result of the curse
who was the son of the sage Bhrgu, in Mahabharata, Mahavisnu had to incarnate himself on earth many
Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Verse 42,. He was among the times. (Devi Bhagavata, 4th Skandha) .
132j Chapter 85, we find that three persons, namely, KAYASODHANAT IRTHA. A holy place in Kuru-
Kavi, Bhrgu and Angiras took their birth from the ksetra. According to Mahabharata, Vana Parva,
i Sukra is also known as Kavya. Certain Puranas claim Sukra as the son (if Bhrgu, while certain others refer to him as the son of Kavi
son of Bhrgu. Puloma was Bhrgu's wife. But, the Puranas call the mother of Sukra Kavyamata. No mention is made about the wife of Kavi
the son of Bhrgu. Puloma and Kavvamata are different persons. Therefore, Sukra might be the son of Bhrgu hy another wife, or he might be
the son of Kavi.
KAYAVYA 403 KERALA
Chapter 86, by taking a bath at this place the body west of Western Ghats had a very ancient history and
would be purified. civilization of its own.
KAYAVYA. A Candala. He was born to a Candala 2) Origin of Kerala. There are two statements, slightly
woman as the son of a Ksatriya. But the Candalas different from each other, in the Puranas, about the
who were impressed by Kayavya's moral conduct, origin of Kerala.
made him the headman of the village. He taught (
1
) For performing
the funeral ceremony of the sons
others that all people should honour Brahmanas and of Sagara whose ashes wdre lying in Patala (Nether
love their country. His political creed was that those world), Bhagiratha performed penance and brought
who prospered by the ruin of a country were just like the heavenly river Ganga to the earth. (See under
the worms living on a dead body. (M.B. Santi Parva, Ganga) . The river fell in North India and flowed in
Chapter 135). torrents to the sea and the surrounding regions were
KEDARA. A holy place in the interior of Kuruksetra. submerged in water. Among the places submerged,
It is mentioned Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter
in there was the important holy place and Bath of
83, that those who bathe in this holy Bath would Gokarna also, lying on the west coast of India. Those
obtain the fruits of good actions. One of the twelve hermits who lived in the vicinity of the temple at
Lingas consecrated in important places, is in Gokarna, escaped from the flood and went to Mahendra-
Kedara. giri and informed Parasurama of the calamity of the
KEKARALOHITA. A great serpent which once took flood. Paras' urama went with them to the sea-shore.
sage Cyavana to Patala. Cyavana, after worshipping Varuna did not make his appearance. The angry
Siva at Nakulesvara tirtha got into river Narmada to ParaSurama stood in deep meditation for a little
take his bath when the naga called Kekaralohita while. The weapons came to his hands. Varuna was
caught hold of him, dragged him and bit him. As filled with fear and he instantly appeared before
the sage meditated upon Visnu the poison did not Paras urama, who asked him to release the land
affect him. The serpent released him from Patala as swallowed by the sea. Varuna agreed. Parasurama
he was unaffected by poison. Cyavana went to the sent his bow and arrow back to the sky. Then he took
palace of Prahlada accompanied by naga damsels. On a winnowing basket (Surpa) and threw it at the sea.
the request of Prahlada Cyavana described to him the The sea retreated from the place up to the spot where
holy places on earth, and without any delay Prahlada the winnowing basket fell, and the portion of land
came to earth for hunting during which sojourn on including Gokarna which had been swallowed by sea was
earth he visited Naimisaranya. (Vamana Purana, recovered. This land is called Kerala, which is known
Chapter 8) .
by the name 'Siirparaka' also. (Brahmanda Purana,
KEKAYA. The Mahabharata mentions another Kekaya, Chapters 98 and 99).
a King of the solar dynasty. He wedded two Malava (2) Parasurama went round the world eighteen
princesses from the elder ofwhom were born Kicaka times and killed all the Ksatriya Kings. After that he
and Upakicaka, and from the younger was born performed the sacrifice of Asvamedha (horse sacrifice) .
Sudesna, also called Kaikeyi. This Sudesna married In the sacrifice he gave all the lands as alms to
Matsya, the Virata King. (Virata Parva, Southern Brahmins. KaSyapa received all the lands for the
text, Chapter 16). Brahmins. After that he requested Parasurama to
KEKAYA(M). vacate the land. Accordingly Parasurama created
1 )General. A Kingdom in ancient India. Kaikeyi, one new land by shooting an arrow at the sea, for
of Dasaratha's wives, was a daughter of a Kekaya his own use. "At the words of Kasyapa, he made the
King. sea retreat by shooting an arrow, thereby creating dry
2 ) Origin. The country got the name 'Kekaya' as it land." This land was Kerala. (M.B. Drona Parva,
was ruled by King Kekaya. His genealogy is as follows. Chapter 70)'
Descended from Visnu_thus Brahma Atri Candra
: 3 ) Kerala and Patala (Nether world) The ancient
.
Budha Pururavas Ayus Nahusa Yayati Anud- sages of the Puranas have grouped the worlds into
ruhyu Sabhanara Kalanara Srnjaya USInara three, the Svarga (heaven), Bhumi (the earth) and
Sibi Kekaya. Sibi had four sons called Bhadra, the Patala ( the nether world) The three worlds taken
.
Suvlra, Kekaya and Vrsadarpa. (Bhagavata 9th as a whole were divided into fourteen worlds. It does
Skandha) . not appear that this grouping was merely imaginary.
Other details. (1 ) The King and the people of Kekaya A keen observation of the Puranas would lead one to
were called the Kekayas. infer that the Himalayan plateau was considered as
(2) Five heroic Kekaya princes met with their death Devaloka-Svarga (heaven), the planes between the
in fighting Drona. (Strl Parva, Chapter 25, Verse Himalaya and the Vindhya as Bhuloka (the earth)
25) .
(3) Two Kekaya Princes, Vinda and Anuvinda fought and the regions to the south of the Vindhya as Patala
on the Kaurava side. (Kama Parva, Chapter 13). (the nether world), by the ancient people of India.
KERAKA. People of an ancient country in South The seven worlds of Patala such as Atala, Vitala,
India. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Sabhaparva, Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala, Rasatala and Patala might
Chapter 3 1 that Sahadeva the son of Madri conquered have been seven countries in this region. The following
the Kerakas and Kerala. description which occurs in Devi Bhagavata, Skandha 8,
KERALA. would substantiate this inference.
1) General information. A
small country lying in the "Patala is below the earth. This Patala is a group of
south-west corner of India. From the Puranas it seven worlds one below the other, with names, Atala,
could be understood that this country lying to the Vitala, Sutala, Talatala, Rasatala and Mahatala. In
south of Gokarna upto Cape Comorin and to the all those worlds, there are several beautiful cities and
KERALA 404 KERALA
houses, palaces and castles, parks, gardens, open temples of Turvasu the brother of Yadu, and that from Gan-
and halls, natural arbours etc. made by Maya. There dhara were born the powerful families of theGandharas
live the Asuras, the Danavas (a class of Asuras-demons) the Keralas, the Colas, the Pandyas and the Kolas.
the nagas (serpents) and others, with their families, (5) In Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 175, it is
with happiness and comfort. Chirping birds, pigeons, mentioned that the people of Kerala were considered as
parrots, docile parrots etc. always play there with their barbarians by the North Indians.
inseparable mates. Trees bearing sweet fruits, plants (6) In Bhagavata, Skandha 10, it is mentioned that the
covered with fragrant flowers, arbours with creepers Kings of Cola, Pandya and Kerala, from South India,
growing thick, beautiful houses floored with white had reached the capital city of Vidarbha to take part
marble, and so many other things giving pleasure and in the Svayamvara (marriage) of Rukmini.
comfort are seen there in plenty. In these things the (7) Mention is made in Mahabharata, Vana Parva,
Patala surpasses heaven. Daityas, Danavas and the Chapter 254, Stanza 15, that in his conquest of the
Nagas (the Asuras and the serpents) are the dwellers countries, Karna had conquered Kerala also.
of these worlds. They lead a happy and pleasant life with (8) It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
their families enjoying all sorts of comfort and luxury." Chapter 31, that Sahadeva, one of the Pandavas, con-
Patala, one of the seven divisions of the world is describ- quered the Keralas and the Kerakas. It may be noted
ed as follows : that the Kerakas are different from Keralas.
"This is the region of the Nagas (the serpents). At the (9) Valmiki mentions the countries which could be
root-place of this region there is a particular place seen by the monkeys who were sent to the South by
having an area of thirty thousand yojanas. Visnu Kala Sugriva to search for Slta.
who has the attribute of 'tamasa' (darkness) lives there Nadirh Godavarirh caiva
under the name 'Ananta'. The real Ananta or Adisesa Sarvamevanupasyata /
Bharata, there was the kingdom of Kerala and that it villages formed a Nalpadu (group) of four. Four Nal-
was separate from the country of Dravida. (M.B. padus formed a Kazhaka (a division of the country with
Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9) . a chief temple within it) and four Kazhakas formed a
(3) "Kartavlryarjuna took his majestic seat in the Perumkazhaka ( greater Kazhaka) . Peruriikazhaka was
midst of Cola, Kerala, Pandya and other Kings of the also known as Trkkala. The assembly hall of trk-
countries under the sea, who were standing round him kutta is called Kottil. This hall was erected generally
to pay homage to him." (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter beside the temple. The chief officer of the temple
54). was the chairman of the trkkutfa (assembly of
(4) It is mentioned in Agni Purana, Chapter 277, that the people) . When a trkkutta is assembled, sixtyfour
a King named Gandhara was born in the dynasty elders of the "taras", the"accas" (officers) of Kazhakas,
KERALA 405 KERALA
the sixtyfour Tandans and sixteen Nalpadies had to be gate of the temple or on the stage for performances.
present. The Nalpadies were the chiefs of four taras. The rightsand authorities were in the hands of the
The accas, who were the Presidents, had to come clad general assembly of the people called Nattukkutta and
in variegated silk, with waist-band of long cloth and the council of the temple officials. When the Namboothi-
wearing a small sword (Churika). Till recently the ris became powerful they became members of the
Kazhakas of Andallur, Rampallya, Kurvantatta, Turutti council. With this change the Kings and Koil adhikaris
etc., and so many Nalpadus and taras and the elders became puppets in the hands of the Namboothiris. In
thereof had been retaining and enjoying titles and the Ramesvaram edict of M.E. 278 it is mentioned that
distinctions of rank. King Ramavarma Kulasekhara was punished with
The Namboothiris (Brahmins) entered Kerala before retribution for his 'hatred' of the Aryas. Finally the
the beginning of the Malayala Era. With that, changes Nambuthiris (Malayala Brahmins) became the land-
took place in the administration of Kerala. Certain lords of the country.
edicts help us to ascertain the changes that took place 6) The people af ancient Kerala. It is assumed that the
in the administration. The edict of Vazhappally of the ancient inhabitants of Kerala were Dravidas. But
9th century by Rajasekhara is an important one in some historians have mentioned about the 'Pro to
this connection. This emperor of the Ceras who is consi- Dravidians and the Pre Dravidians. The hill tribes such
dered to be a contemporary of Sri Saiikaracarya had as Kanikkars, Mutuvas, Mala Vetas, Pulayas, Kura-
the title beginning with "Rajadhiraja Paramesvara vas, Nayatis, Malayarayas, Malayatis, Malap-
Bhattaraka". (T.A.S. Vol. II, P. 8-14). The subject pandaras, Malayuralis, Mutuvans Pullatis etc. are
dealt with in the edict is the 'daily worship and settle- said to have belonged to this group. They worshipped
ment', in the temple of Tiruvottiyur. It is stated in this several things such as stone, banyan tree, elenji tree,
edict that the people of Vazhappally and the representa- Asclapia tree, Nim tree Terminatia Bellarica, Borassus
tives of 18 Nadus or divisions had met in the temple flabelliformis, cassia fistula, Ghosts, thunder, rain, the
and taken certain decisions. sun etc. They worshipped good ghosts for welfare, and
The next one is the Kottayam Copper edicts known as bad ghosts to avoid misfortunes. They had images of
the 'Tarisa Church Edicts.' This is a document granting Mata, Catta, Cavu, Maruta, Pettucavu, Arukula,
the Tarisa Church in Quilon, the adjoining lands and Preta, Vazhipinakki, Ayiramilli, Parakkutti, Kattujati,
some other institutions. This edict was granted by Malavazhi, Marini, Nayattu Pe Mankattamma,
Ayyanati tiruvatikal the ruler of the Natu (division) , Muniyappa, Vettakkaran and so on. They worshipped
for the Cera emperor. It is mentioned as ''including in small bushes, open grounds or houses. They knew
the Temple Officer Vijayarakatevar", which means black magic such as cursing, giving poison in meals etc.
that Vijayaraka had been present on the occasion of These uncivilized people were very particular about
granting the edict, as the representative of Emperor cleanliness on the occasions of delivery, menstruation,
Sthanuravi. The Naduvazhis (local chiefs or rulers of death etc. They pleased bad ghosts by offering liquor,
division) were not empowered to take decision in very flesh and blood, and good ghosts with milk, ghee, honey
important matters. Titles, rights distinctions of rank etc. They buried dead bodies with a little raw rice
etc. were granted by a council of Chief minister, meant for food at the time of entering the other world.
Officers, Punnattalappati and Polakkutippati(two They had collective worship. They sang songs at the
high officials)Vijayarakatevar, the Koil adhikari,
. time of worship using some primitive musical instru-
was the representative of the emperor at Mahodaya- ments. For each village there were elders who were
pura. The supervising officials of temples were gene- priests and rulers. They erected stone huts in the burial
rally called the 'Koil adhikari'. Normally the younger place and buried the dead inside these in graves. These
brothers of the Kings were appointed in this rank. graves were called 'Pandukuzhy'. The Oralis, continue
These temple-officers were helped in their duties by the custom of posting two stones at either end of the
the Division-rulers, people of the locality and the in- grave. The custom of burial prevailed more than
ferior officers in the temple. When the empire of cremation.
Kulasekhara declined, the family of Perumpadappu Nair, Nambutiri, Izhava, Christians, Muslims and such
got this position of 'Koil adhikari'. So the title 'Koil other castes came to Kerala from other places later.
adhikari' is added to the names of the princes of 7)Ibn Batuta and Kerala. Ibn Batuta who was born in the
Cochin. town of Tanjlr in Morocco in Africa in A.D. 1304 had
Another one is the Mampally Edicts. This is a deed of travelled all over the Eastern countries then known. He
granting some lands free to the temple of Airur, in the had started from his house on a Haj Pilgrimage at the
name of Adiccan Umayamma of Trkkalayapuram, by age of 22. He returned home only after 29 years, having
Venattu Sri Vallabhankota in M.E. 149. Even such travelled all over the known countries. He has written
an unimportant thing as the granting of free lands, a book in Arabic about his travels of 29 years. One third
had to be effected with the permission of Cera kings of this thick volume is devoted for descriptions of his
and their councils. (T.A.S. Vol IV, Page 9). travels in India alone. Its name is 'Tuh Phattunannar'.
From these edicts it is clear that the administration of He passed over the Hindu Kush in A.D. 1333 and
the temples was carried out by representatives elected entered India. In the midst of his travels throughout
by people. For each village temple there was an the length and breadth of India, he came to Kerala
administrative council. These councils were controlled also. He says as follows about Kerala in his book:
by Naduvazhis and Desavazhis (Divisional and Sub "Malabar is the country of Pepper. This country's
Divisional rulers who had Nair infantry (big or small length from Gokarna to Quilon is two months' journey.
as the case may be) at their disposal. The adminis- All the roads in this country are rendered cool and shady
trative assembly met either in the open hall at the main by asclapia trees. On the roads at intervals of half an
KESARA 406 KESlNl V
hour there are inns. Near the inn there will be a well KESI I.
and a person to give water. The non-Muslims are given 1). General information.An Asura. It is mentioned in
water in pots. But water is poured into the hands of Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 65 that forty Asuras
Muslims. Rice is served in plantain leaf and sauces or Danavas were born to Kasyapa, the son of Marici,
are also served in the same leaf. Uncultivated and and the grandson of Brahma, by his wife Danu, and
uninhabited land is not to be seen. Each house is that Kesi was one of them.
situated in the centre of a cultivated area. The people 2). KeSt and Indra. Once a war broke out between
of this country do not use animals to carry goods. the Devas and the Asuras. Disasters befell the Devas.
Travelling is on foot. Only Kings use horses. There is Daityasena and Devasena., the daughters of Prajapati
a conveyance called mancal (Palanquin) Slaves are . were about to be carried away by Kesi. Daityasena
used as Palanquin bearers. I have seen roads which agreed to accompany him of her own accord, but
could be used so fearlessly, only in Kerala and, no Devasena cried aloud. Hearing her cry Devendra rea-
where else in the world. Capital punishment is given to ched the spot. A terrible fight ensued and finally the
one who steals even a coconut. The people of this defeated Kesi ran away. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
country respect Muslims. 223).
There are twelve kings in Malabar. None of them KtH and Visnu. Once there was a fight which last-
3).
are Muslims. Many of them are powerful having an ed for thirteen days, between Keg I and Visnu. (M.B.
army of more than fifty-thousand soldiers. But there are Vana Parva, Chapter 134, Stanza 20) .
no quarrels or clashes among them. The powerful do KESI II. A follower ofKamsa. This Asura, on the in-
not have the desire to subjugate the less powerful. The struction of Kamsa, went to Ambadi (Gokula) taking
inheritants of these kings are not sons, but nephews the form ofa horse, to kill Sri Krsna. Sri Krsna killed
(sons of sisters ) Besides the people of Kerala I have
. Kesi. It
is seen in the
Bhagavata (Malayalamj that Sri
seen only the Muslims of the country of Salam on the Krsna got the name Kesava because he had killed Kesi.
banks of the Niger in Africa who have adopted the (Skandha 10, Kesivadha).
system of inheritance in the female line." KESI III. In Bhagavata there is another Kesi who was
Ibn Batuta has given some minor descriptions about the son of Vasudeva.
the towns of Mangalapuram, Ezhumala, Kannur "Pauravi Rohini Bhadra
Calicut, Paliyam, Crahganiir and Quilon. Madira Rocana Ila /
KESARA. A
Mountain in Sakadvipa (Saka island) .
Devakipramukha asan
The air on mountain was always filled with frag-
this Patnya Anakadundubheh."
rance. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 11, Stanza 23). Pauravi, Rohini, Bhadra, Madira, Rocana, Ila and
KESARl. A forest King who lived in the Maha Meru. Devaki were the wives of Vasudeva.
While Kesari was living in the Mahameru, Brahma From this statement made in Bhagavata, Skandha 9,
cursed a celestial maid named Managarva and changed Chapter 24, it is clear that Vasudeva had a number of
her into a female monkey. She became the wife of wives. Kausalya, who was one of them, was the mother
Kesari, under the name Anjana. For a long time the of Kesi. (Bhagavata, Skandha 9, Chapter 24, Stanza
couple had no children. Anjana worshipped Vayu Bha- 48).
gavan (Wind-God) for a child. KESlNl I. A celestial woman. In Mahabharata, Adi Parva
Once during this period the gods and hermits went Chapter 65 it is stated that the twelve celestial maids,
to Parama Siva and requested him to beget a son to
Alambusa, Misrakesi, Vidyutparna, Tilottama, Aruna,
help Mahavisnu who was about to incarnate as Sri Rambha, Manorama, Kegini, Surata, Suraja
Raksita,
Rama to kill Ravana. Siva and Parvati instantly took and Supriya were born
to KaSyapa of his wife Pradha.
the form of monkeys and entered the forest for play.
KESlNl II. The wife of Ajamidha, a King of the Puru
They having not returned for a long time the gods dynasty. The three sons Jahnu, Vraja and Rupina were
asked the wind-god to go in search of them. The wind
born to Ajamidha of his wife KeSini. (Agni Purana,
god came in the form of a great storm and shook the
whole of the forest. Still they did not come out. Parvati Chapter 278) .'
who was pregnant was ashamed to come out. With KESlNl III. A maid of Damayantl. When Nala reached
Siva she got on an ASoka tree and sat there. Seeing Kundinapuri, as Bahuka the charioteer of Rtuparna,
that tree alone standing motionless in the big storm
Kesini approached Bahuka at the request of Damayantl
and by various tests found out that Bahuka was Nala.
Vayu god approached the tree and looked up. Siva and
Parvati appeared before Vayu. Parvati refused to take (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapters 74 and 75).
the foetus in the form of monkey to Kailasa. As Siva KESlNl IV. A servant of Parvati. It is mentioned in
had instructed, Parvati gave the child in the womb to Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 231, Stanza 48
the wind-god. It was at this time that Anjana had that once Parvati with her servant Kelini praised
Siva.
prayed to Vayu fqr a child. Vayu gave that child
to Anjana, who gave birth to it. That child was KESlNl V. Once there arose a quarrel between Sudh-
Hanuman. Thus Hanuman got the names, Anjanaputra anva, the son of Angiras, and Virocana the son of Prah-
(son of Anjana) , Vayuputra (son of Vayu) , Kesari- lada, because both wanted to marry the same girl
putra (Son of Kesari) etc. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chap- named Kesini. Sudhanva was a Brahmin whereas
ter 417). Virocana was an Asura, who argued that Asura was
KESAVA. See under Kr}na. nobler than Brahmin and Sudhanva said that it was the
KESAYANTRI. An attendant of Skandadeva. (M.B. other way. Both wagered their lives and accepted
Salya Parva, Chapter 46) . Prahlada as their judge. The decision of Prahlada was
KESINI VI 407 KETUMAN III
that the Brahmin was the nobler of the two. Because KETU IV. A King born in Bharata's dynasty. (Bhaga-
Prahlada said the truth Sudhanva did not kill Viro- vata, 9th Skandha).
cana. But Virocana had to wash the Ifeet of Sudhanva KETU V. (DHUMAKETU). The following story is
in the presence of Kesini, feet Sudhanva married told in Visnudharmottara Purana about the birth of
Kesini in the presence of Virocana. (M.B. Udyoga Dhumaketu.
Parva, Chapter 35). Noting that the population on earth had increased
KESINI. VI. A wife of King Sagara. This Kesini abnormally Brahma created a damsel called Mrtyu and
was the daughter of the King of Vidarbha. The son asked her to kill people. At this command of Brahma
Asamanjasa was born to Sagara of Kesini. (Valmlki she began crying, and from her tear drops various kinds
Ra.ma.yana, Balakanda, Sarga 38). of diseases originated at the sight of which she took to
KETAKl. (A flower). [Pandarnus odoratissimus] penance. Then Brahma appeared and blessed her say-
Though Ketaki is a flower which had been worn on ing that no one would die because of her at which she
Siva's head, it is not worshipped for the following heaved a great sigh of relief from which was born Ketu
reason. or Dhumaketu.
In Satyayuga Mahavisnu performed intense penance KETU MALA I. The grandson of Priyavrata, the son of
on the Sveta island for the attainment of eternal happi- Manu. Agnidhra, a son of Priyavrata married Purva-
ness. Brahma also performed penance at a beauti- citti. Nine sons were born to Agnidhra of his wife
ful place for the annihilation of desires. During Purvacitti. Ketumala was one of them. His brothers
their tapas Visnu and Brahma, for a rest, left their were Nabhi, Kimpurusa, Hari, Ilavrta, Ramyaka,
seats and walked about in the forest when they met Hiranmaya. Kuru and Bhadrasva.
each other. There arose a controversy between them In old age Agnidhra divided his kingdom among his
about their respective greatness when Siva, in the form sons. Later, the portion given to Ketumala came to be
of a Linga, appeared between the two contestants and known as Ketumala. (Bhagavata, Skandha 5) .
told them that he, who first found out his (Siva's) head KETUMALA II. A holy place in Jambudvlpa. (M.B.
or feet was greater than the other. Accordingly Visnu Vana Parva, Chapter 89) .
went down and Brahma went up on a tour of KETUMALA III. (See under Ketumala I). Ketumala
is the ninth division of Jambudvlpa. The
enquiry. people of this
Though Visnu went down deeper and deeper for a long part of the earth are equal to gods (Devas).The women
time to find out Siva's feet he failed in the attempt and so are very beautiful. In Mahabharata, Sabha Parva it is
returned and sat at the place whence he started for the stated that Arjuna conquered this land. Ketumala is
search. Brahma went up a very long distance when he situated on the east of Mount Meru. In Mahabharata,
saw a Ketaki flower falling down from the sky. He took Bhisma Parva, Chapter 6, there is the description of
the flower in his hands and went to Visnu and told him Ketumala.
that he had found out Siva's head and showed the KETUMAN I. Ketu the Asura (demon). (See under
Ketaki flower as proof of his discovery claiming that it Ketu I).
was taken from Siva's head. But Visnu did not believe KETUMAN II. A
King who was a luminary in the
Brahma and asked the Ketaki flower to bear witness council of Yudhisthira. He was a warrior on the side of
to Brahma's claim. The flower gave false evidence in the Kauravas and a friend of Srutayudha, the of King
favour of Brahma. Siva got angry at this false evidence Kalinga. mentioned in Mahabharata, Bhisma Parva,
It is
of Ketaki and cursed it. The Ketaki lost its place Chapter 54, Stanza 77, that Bhimasena killed this
warrior in the battle of Bharata.
among the best flowers from that day onwards.
KETU I. (KETUMAN). A Danava. He was the son KETUMAN III. In the Mahabharata, another Ketuman
But Ketu maintained closer relationship with Rahu, a ries, Sudhanvan in the east, Saiikhapada in the south,
Ketuman in the West and Hiranyaromaka in the North.
step-brother of his, being the son of Kasyapa by ano-
ther wife called Sirhhika. Rahu and Ketu are even (Agni Purana, Chapter 19).
today considered as inauspicious planets. Rahu wears
KETUMAN VI. A King of the Puru dynasty. (See
under Varhs avail) .
a half-moon and Ketu holds in his hands a sword and
lamp. Amitaujas was Ketu reborn. (Adi Parva, Chapter
KETUMAN VII. In Bhagavata we see a Ketuman who
was the son of Dhanvantari, who gave Ayurveda to the
67, Verse 11).
world.
KETU II. A great sage of ancient India. He attained "Who was the deva who made the Ayurveda in days
salvation by self-study. (Santi Parva, Chapter 26, Verse of old ? His son was Ketuman whose son was Bhlma-
ratha." (Bhagavata, Skandha 9).
KETU III. A synonym of Siva. (Anugasana Parva, KETUMAN VIII. Son of Ekalavya. In Mahabharata,
Chapter 17, Verse 38). Bhisma Parva mentioned that
it is this King of the
KETUMATI 408 KHANDAVADAHA
forest tribes fought on the side of Duryodhana and was KHALI I. A synonym
of Mahavisnu. (M.B. Anusasana
killed by Bhlma. Parva, Chapter Stanza 43).
17,
KETUMATI. Mother of Prahasta, a minister of Ravana. KHALI II. An Asura dynasty. Mention is made in Maha-
Ketumati had two sisters Sundari and Vasudha. These bharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 155, Stanza 22,
three were daughters of a Gandharva woman. that Vasistha once destroyed an Asura
dynasty called
Giant Heti, the son of Brahma married Bhaya and Khali, with his effulgence.
VidyutkeSa was born to the couple. Sukesa was born to KHALU. A river of ancient India. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
Vidyutktia by his wife Salakatarika. Three sons Chapter 9, Stanza 28).
Malyavan, Sumali and Mall were born to Sukesa by his KHANAKA. A messenger sent by Vidura, secretly to
wife Daivavati. Sundari, Ketumati and Vasudha the the Prindavas who were living in the wax-house.
three beautiful sisters mentioned above, were married Vidura sent a message through Khanaka to the effect
by the giants Malyavan, Sumali and Mall respectively. that Duryodhana had decided to set fire to the wax-
Thus Ketumati became the wife of Sumali. To Sumali house employing Purocana to do it on the 14th
and Ketumati were born ten sons, Prahasta, Akampana, night
of the dark lunar fortnight. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter
Vikata, Kalakamukha, Dhumraksa, Danda, Suparsva, 147).
Sarhhrada, Prakvata and Bhasakarna and four daughters
Veka, Puspotkata, Kaikasi and Kumbhinasi. Most of
KHANDAKHANDA. A female attendant of Skanda. In
the sons were ministers of Ravana. (Uttara Rama-
Mahabharata, Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 20,
mention is made about this woman.
yana ) .
KETUSR&GA. A King of ancient India. (M.B. Adi KHAi^DAPARASU. Siva. A story occurs in Maha-
Parva, Chapter 1).
bharata stating how name. The famous
Siva got this
KETUVARMAN. A prince of the country of Trigarta. Daksa-yaga (sacrifice performed by Daksa) was perform-
He was the youngest brother of Suryavarma, the King ed at a time when the Nara Narayanas were engaged in
of Trigarta. When Arjuna led the sacrificial horse of the penance in Badaryasrama. Daksa did not invite his son-
horse-sacrifice of the Pandavas, Ketuvarman accompani- in-law Siva. The angry Siva sent his trident against
Daksa. The trident destroyed the sacrifice of Daksa and
ed Arjuna as a helper. (M.B. Asvamedha Parva,
then flew against the breast of Narayana who was
Chapter 74) .
KEVALA. A city of ancient India. It is mentioned in sitting in penance in Badaryasrama. By the power of
the trident the hair of Narayana became of munja
Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 254, Stanzas 10 (a
and 1 1 that Kama conquered this city. grass) colour. From that day onwards Narayana came
KHA. This syllable has the meanings 'empty' and 'organ to be known by the name Munjakega.
By a sound
of sense'. (Agni Purana, Chapter 348). "hum", the hermit Narayana deviated the trident,
KHADGA. A warrior of Skandadeva. (Mahabharata, which reached the hands of Siva, who got angry and
Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 67) . approached Narayana to kill him. Nara, who was close
KHADGABAHU. See under Dussasana II. by took an arrow and reciting spells over it, released it
KHADGI. See under Kalki. to kill Siva. Immediately the arrow changed to an axe.
KHAGA I. A naga (serpent) born in the family of Siva broke the axe. After this the axe became the
Kasyapa. (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103). weapon of Siva. In Mahabharata Sand Parva, Chapter
KHAGA II. A synonym of Siva. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, 49, Stanza 33, it is mentioned that this axe was given
to Paras urama the disciple of Siva. Thenceforward
Chapter 17, Stanza 67).
KHAGAMA. A Brahmana. In Mahabharata, there is a Siva got the name Khandaparasu. (Para'u means
story which describes how this Brahmin Khagama axe). (Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 343. Stan-
zas 150-59, 167).
changed another Brahmin to a serpent by cursing him.
The Brahmin Khagama and Sahasrapat were friends. KHANDAVADAHA.
Once Sahasrapat made a snake of grass and terrified 1) Introduction. Long ago a King named Svetaki began
Khagama at Agnihotra (Burnt offering in the holy fire) to perform a sacrifice of duration of 100 years. Many
Khagama instantly cursed Sahasrapat to become a Brahmins took part in the sacrifice as priests conducting
serpent. Sahasrapat requested for liberation from the the rituals and ceremonies. These Brahmin priests be-
curse. Khagama said that he would resume his original gan to depart after a few years turning blind due to the
form on the day he saw Ruru the son of Pramati. From smoke coming out of the sacrificial fire. Thus the sacrifice
that day onwards Sahasrapat roamed about in several was stopped for want of priests. Svetaki was grieved at
countries in the form of a serpent. this and performed penance to Siva for getting a
Once Pramadvara the wife of Ruru, died by snake-bite. priest. Siva appeared before him and pointed out
Ruru cried over the death of his wife for a long time. hermit Durvasas as the priest. Svetaki recommenced the
According to the advice of a messenger from the sacrifice and under the supervision of Durvasas the
Devas Ruru gave .half of his life-time to his wife and sacrifice was completed. But Fire god caught dysen-
she came to life again. But Ruru felt a bitter hatred tery due to the continuous eating of oblations offered in
against serpentsand began their extermination. Once the sacrificial fire for a long period. His face became
he met with Sahasrapat. Instantly at the sight of Ruru, pale, body became lean, and he had no taste for food.
Sahasrapat obtained his original form. (M.B. Adi At last Fire-God went to Brahma and complained
Parva, Chapter 11). about Brahma said that in the forest of
his disease.
KHAGAMA. A King born in the family of Sri Rama. He Khandava there lived so many creatures which were
was the son of Vajranabha and the father of Vidhrti. enemies of the devas (gods) and that by eating their
(Bhagavata, Skandha 10). fat the disease of Agni would be cured. Accordingly
KHAGODARA. See under Kahoda. Agni came to the Khandava forest.
KHA1VDAVADAHA 409
The serpent Taksaka, a friend of Indra, lived in this Asuras with the weapon discus. Indra came to the
forest with his wife and children. Indra knew that Agni battle-field on his elephant Airavata. Kala
riding
had come to burn the Khandava forest and resolved to (Time) Kubera,
, Skanda, Asvinidevas and all the other
save Taksaka at any cost. When Agni (fire) began to Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) helped Indra in the
,
catch the forest, Indra had already begun rain. So it fight. But Krsna and Arjuna came out victorious.
was not possible for Agni to consume the forest. Agni 7) The advent of Maya. Meanwhile Krsna and
tried seven times to consume the forest and in all these Arjuna called Indra and told him who they were and
seven attempts he failed. Agni again approached informed him that Taksaka had gone to Kuruksetra.
Brahma, who told him that the Nara-Narayanas would Hearing this Indra blessed Krsna and Arjuna and
take birth in the earth as Krsna and Arjuna and that retreated from the battlefield. Agni began to consume
at that time it would be possible for fire to consume the the forest more vigorously than before. Because of the
forest Khandava. unbearable heat, Maya, the architect of the Asuras,
2) Krsna and Arjuna in the forest of Khandava. While the came out of the house of Taksaka and ran to Krsna
Pandavas were living in Indraprastha, once the hot and Arjuna and entreated them to save him. Accordingly
season became so unbearable that Arjuna took Krsna with Arjuna saved him from the fire.
him and went to the forest of Khandava. While they 8) The story of four birds which escaped from the fire. In
were playing in the river Yamuna with their wives that forest a hermit named Mandapala had erected his
Agni came there in the guise of an old Brahmin and told hermitage and lived there performing penance. He died
them all that had happened and requested their help and went to the world of ancestors. But there, the hermit
for eating the Khandava forest. Krsna and Arjuna did not attain any fruit of the penance he had performed.
promised to help him in this affair. The hermit asked the Devas for the reason. They replied
3 ) Preparation of weapons. For the time being Krsna that it was because the hermit had no sons. The hermit
and Arjuna were not having sufficient weapons. Agni came to the forest again to marry and beget sons.
(fire-god) thought of Varuna (the God of water) who Mandapala married a bird called Jarita. Four sons named
instantly appeared. At the request of Agni Varuna gave Jaritari, Sarisrkka, Stambamitra and Drona, were born
Arjuna the famous bow 'Candradhanus' (Gandiva) a ,
to them. After this Mandapala left Jarita and her sons
quiver which would never become empty of arrows and went after another woman Lapita.
and a chariot having a flag with the sign of monkey Feathers were not yet grown on the body of Jarita's
and to Sri Krsna the weapon of the discus. Varuna gave four sons. The burning of the forest began before it.
four white horses also with gold chains round their necks Jarita and her sons were in a sorry plight. The mother
for drawing the chariot of Arjuna. With these weapons could fly. But she did not think of leaving her young
Krsna and Arjuna got ready to help Agni. Sri Krsna ones in danger. She decided to die in the fire folding
became the charioteer of Arjuna. the young ones under her wings. But her sons did not agree
4) Burning the forest. When Krsna and Arjuna stood toil. They entreated her to fly away. Thus moments of
ready Agni began to consume the forest. Krsna and tears passed by. At last Jarita told them crying, "There
Arjuna guarded the boundaries of the forest so that is the hole of a rat closeby. The rat had been taken
the inmates of the forest might not escape. The living away by n kite. I will take you to that hole and close
creatures ran hither and thither finding no way to it. Then I shall go away and return when the fire is
escape. Many died of suffocation. At that time the abated."
hermits who weredwellers of that forest ran to Indra But the young ones did not agree to this. They loved
and informed him of the great calamity. Indra instantly to be killed by fire, rather than to be killed by rat. Final-
got ready to fight and save the forest. He covered the ly at their request Jarita flew away.
whole of the sky with clouds and a heavy rain was Mandapala thought of his sons. He separated from
showered on the forest. Arjuna created a covering of Lapita, and came to Agni and requested him to save
arrows like an umbrella over the fire and saved him his sons and Jarita. Agni consumed the forest and
from the rain. neared the birds. The young birds requested Agni to
5) The family of Taksaka. At this particular time save them. Agni Deva saved them. Mandapala and
Taksaka had been away at Kuruksetra. Asvasena the Jarita returned. That family lived for a long time in
son of Taksaka was writhing with heat and pain. joy and happiness and finally attained the world of the
Seeing this his mother (wife of Taksaka) swallowed him gods. Agni returned to heaven after the burning of
from tail to head. Then she ran to the boundary to the forest of Khandava. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapters 233
throw the child into the outer region. Seeing this to 346) .
Arjuna got angry and cut at the head of Asvasena. But KHASTJAVAPRASTHA. See under Indraprastha.
at the nick of time Indra sent a storm and made Arjuna KHAl^DAVAYANA. Parasurama gave all the coun-
swoon and Asvasena was saved. So Arjuna became tries conquered by him to Kasyapa. Along with the lands
furious and began to cut down every creature he saw. he gave a golden dais also. The group of hermits called
Arjuna, Krsna and Agni together cursed Asvasena that Khandavayanas cut the dais into pieces and shared them
he would get refuge nowhere. with the permission of Kasyapa. (M.B. Vana Parva,
Asvasena kept up his hatred of Arjuna. In the Bharata Chapter 117, Stanza 13).
battle, Asvasena got on an arrow sent by Karna at KHAl^pIKYA. A Ksatriya King. Kesidhvaja was the
Arjuna and knocked off the crown of Arjuna and return- son of his paternal uncle. Both had learned well the
ed. But due to the curse Karna did not receive him ways of union with the divine life. Khandikya had be-
back. come an expert in Karmayoga (the path of action) for
6) Deadly fight. The serpents and hawks confronted becoming one with the divine life whereas Kesidhvaja
Arjuna, who cut off their heads. Krsna killed the tried to achieve oneness with divine life by Jnana
KHANlNETRA 410 KlCAKA
Yoga ( the path of knowledge or spiritual attainment) . She went Khara Dusana and Trisiras and lamented
to ;
Each desired to subdue the other. Consequently before them. The three of them immediately started
Khandikya lost his kingdom and had to live in a forest with an army of fourteen thousand giants and fought
with his priest and minister. (Bhagavata, Skandhas 9 with Rama and Laksmana, who killed every one of
and 13). them. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranyakanda, Sargas 19
Kesidhvaja who tried the path of knowledge to attain to 30) .
Absolution performed several sacrifices for that purpose KHARA II. Another giant who helped Ravana in the
and cut himself asunder from the bonds of action. Once, battle between Rama and Ravana.
while he was performing a sacrifice, a tiger came to the In Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 285, Stanza 2,
place of sacrifice and killed the sacrificial cow. Then it is said that "Parvana, Patana, Jambha, Khara,
Kesidhvaja asked the priests who were conducting the Krodhavasa, Hari, Praruja, Aruja, Praghasa and others
sacrifice, what the atonement was for the death of the fought with Rama.
sacrificial cow. The priests sent the King to the hermit KHARAJA&GHA. A female attendant of Skanda. (M.B.
Kaseru, who sent the King to the hermit Bhrgu. Hermit Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 22) .
Bhrgu in his turn sent the King to the hermit Sunaka. KHARAKARMl. A female attendant of Skanda. (M.B.
But the matter did not end there. The hermit Sunaka Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 26).
could not dictate the atonement for the death of the KHARI. A female attendant of Skanda. (M.B. Salya
sacrificial cow. So he sent the King to Khandikya who Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 22).
was living in the forest. The moment Khandikya saw KHASA. A wife of KaSyapa Prajfipati. (Visnu Purana
Kesidhvaja he stood ready to kill him. But Kesidhvaja Arhsa Chapter 15)
I, .
revealed everything to Khandikya, When he under- KHASA(M). A country in ancient India. (M.B. Drona
stood the situation Khandikya told him with sincerity Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 41) .
the rites given in the Sastras (Vedangas) to atone the KHASlRA. A place situated on the North East corner
death of the sacrificial cow. of Ancient India. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9,
KeSidhvaja returned and completed the sacrifice. The Stanza 68) .
2) Other brothers. Khara had two other brothers KHYATI II. Daughter of Kuru, who was born of the
Dusana and TriSiras. (Uttara Ramayana) .
family of Dhruva. Six sons, Aiiga, Sumanas, Svati,
3) The slaughter of Khara. While Sri Rama, Sita and Kratu, Aiigiras, and Sibi were born to Kuru by his
Laksmana were staying in the forest of Dandakaranya wife Agneyi. (Visnu Purana, AnVa I, Chapter 13).
Surpanakha the sister of Khara came there once and Khyati was a daughter born to them.
tried to get one of the brothers Sri Rama and Laksmana KlCAKA. Brother-in-law of Matsya, king of Virata and
as her husband. Laksmana cut off her nose and ears. son of Kekaya, king of the Sutas,
KlKATA 411 KIMPURUSA
1
^General information. To Kekaya, king of the Sutas returning home from Bhadracala with his ass loaded
was born of queen Malavi, Kicaka and other 105 sons with bundles of costly Rudraksas. The old ass fell down
younger to him called Upa-Kicakas. Their only sister dead on the way, the weight of the Rudraksa bundles
was called Sudesna. (Bharata, Southern text, Page having been too much for it, and immediately it
1898). Kicaka and Upa-Kicakas took their birth from assumed the form of Siva and went to Kailasa. Even
an aspect of Bana, the eldest of the Asuras known as if a man does not know what he is carrying, if he
the Kalakeyas. (See Bharata, Page 1893). Matsya, the carries sacred things he will certainly attain salvation,
Virata king wedded Sudesna; and from that day on- like the ass that attained salvation in this case. (Devi
wards, the brothers too lived in the Virata palace. Kicaka Bhagavata, 1 1 th Skandha ) .
was the chieftain of Virata's army, and he had, many a KILI (PARROT).
time, defeated in war King SuSarman of Trigarta. 1 About the origin of Kilis parrots) the
) Origin. (
(Virata Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 30) .
following is stated in Canto 14, Aranya Kanda of the
2) Kicaka and Pdncdli. During their life incognito, Ramayana.
the Pandavas lived in the Virata palace after taking
Kasyapa, the grandson of Brahma and son of Marici
up various jobs. Pancall, under the assumed name married the eight daughters of Daksaprajapati, one of
Malini, served Sudesna. and her daughter Uttara as them being called Tamra. Tamra had five daughters
their chaperon. Kicaka fell in love with Pancall at
called Kraunci, Bhasi, Syeni, Dhrtarastrl and Suki.
first sight. But, Pancall resisted all his advances. Then,
Sukas or Kilis (parrots) are the offsprings of Suki.
he sought the help of his sister Sudesna. to bring round
Pancall to him somehow. Sudesna asked Kicaka to be 2) Parrots acquire talking faculty. Lord Siva agreed to
ready on the New Moon day with liquor and rice and beget a son to kill Tarakasura, at the request of the
Devas. The coitus between Siva and ParvatI for the
promised to send Malini (Pancall) to him. Ordered
by Sudesna, she went to Kicaka with his plate of food purpose did not end even after a hundred years. Due
much against her will. Kicaka caught hold of her, but to the pressure of the process the whole world shook,
she ran when the former caught her by the hair, felled and when the world appeared to get destroyed the
her on the floor and kicked her. A Raksasa, who was Devas asked Agnideva to persuade Siva to stop. But,
afraid of approaching Siva Agni ran off and hid him-
deputed for Pancali's security appeared on the scene in
a trice and felled Kicaka. self in the ocean. The Devas followed him, and animals
Kicaka's Death. The very same night with tears in in the water which were burning with the heat of
3).
her eyes, Pancall told Bhlma all about the indecent Agni, told the Devas that Agni was hiding in the sea.
behaviour. He asked Pancall to invite Kicaka to a But, Agni cursed them all to dumbness, and leaving the
secret meeting at a specified place the next ocean hid himself on mount Mandara. The parrots
night, and
revealed this secret, when Agni cursed them also and
promised her that he would remain concealed there
and kill Kicaka. Accordingly Bhlma concealed himself made their tongues fold inwards. The Devas and the
the next night in the dancing hall and, as
requested by parrots requested for redemption from the curse.
Pancali, Kicaka came to the hall at midnight to spend Redemption was granted thus "Though the tongue
:
a few hours with Pancall. Bhlma was lying there on be turned inwards your sound will be melodious. Just
a cot, and Kicaka, mistaking him for Pancall kissed like the voice of a child your (parrots') sound also will
him. Bhlma caught him in his iron grips and crushed him be sweet and wonderful."
to death. The next morning, it was the fate of Kicaka's From that day onwards parrots began talking and
brothers to lament over his death. The story also was singing. (Kathasaritsagara, Lavanakalambaka, Taranga
spread that Kicaka was killed by some Gandharva, the 6 and Anusasana Parva, Chapter 85) .
Upa-Kicakas forcibly took her with them. Hearing the dynasty of Priyavrata, son of Manu. He became lord
of the Jambu island, and married an apsara woman
heart-rending cries of Pancall Bhlma rushed to the spot
and killed the named Purvacitti. To them were born nine sons called
all Upa-Kicakas and saved Pancall
from death. In the presence of the Virata king the Nabhi, Kimpurusa, Hari, Ilavrta, Ramyaka, Hiran-
cremation of Kicaka and the Upa-Kicakas took place. maya, Kalva, Bhadrasva and Ketumala. Agnidhra
(Virata Parva, Chapter 13 et seq) .
kingdom among the nine sons. The
partitioned the
KlKATA. A King born in the dynasty of Priyavrata, land Kimpurusa ruled over was known as Kimpurusa
son of Manu. He was one of the nineteen sons of King or Kimpurusavarsa. It lay to the south of Hemakuta
mountain. It was here that Hanuman spent his last
Bharata, the other eighteen being Kusavarman, lla-
varta, Brahmavarta, Aryavarta, Malaya, Bhadraketu, days worshipping Sri Rama.
Sena, Indrasprk, Vidarbha, Kapi, Hari, Antariksa, "The son of the wind God (Hanuman) lives in the
Prabuddha, Pippalayana, Avirhotra, Dramida, Camasa country called Kimpurusavarsa in the worship of Sri
and Karabhajana. (Bhagavata, 5th Skandha). Rama." (Bhagavata, 5th Skandha) .
KlKATA (M). The country ruled by King Kikata. According to the Sabha Parva (Chapter 23, Verses 1,2)
The following story is told in Devi Bhagavata as to how Kimpurusavarsa guarded by the sons of Druma is
an ass in this kingdom attained heaven. situated to the north of the Himalayas facing the
There was once in Kikata a merchant who had an ass Dhavala mountain, and this country was once conquer-
to carry his merchandise. Once the merchant was ed by Arjuna.
KINDAMA 412 KlRTIMAN I
(iii) They guard the lotus ponds kept by Kubera to KINNARA(S). A sect of Devas all of whom hold
sport with his beloved ones. (Vana Parva, Chapter Vinas in their hands. (Agni Purana, Chapter 51 ).
15 Verse 9).
;
,
K1RATA. An urban region in ancient India. (Bhisma
(iv) In his conflict with Ravana, Kubera left behind Parva, Chapter 2, Verse 51 ).
him Lanka and his Puspaka Vimana, escaped towards KIRATARJUNlYA. During the life in exile in the
the north and settled down on mount Gandhamadana forest of the Pandavas, Arjuna performed penance to
with the help of the Kimpurusas. (Vana Parva, Chapter propitiate Siva in the Himalayas. Disguised as a
275, Verse 33) . forest-hunter Siva appeared on the scene and tested
(v) Yaksa women
were their mothers. (Santi Parva, Arjuna's valour. Arjuna won in the test and was
Chapter 207, Verse 25). presented the Pa.supata.stra by Siva. The story is told
(vi) They were present asvamedha of Yudhi-
at the in Chapter 167 of the Vana Parva. (See under
sthira. (Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 88, Verse 37). Arjuna) .
(vii) Suka Brahmarsi reached Bharata, crossing KIRlTl I. A warrior of Skanda deva. (Salya Parva,
Kimpurusavarsa. (Santi Parva, Chapter 325) .
Chapter 45, Verse 71 ).
KINDAMA. A great sage. Once sage Kindama and KIRlTl II. A
synonym of Arjuna. (See under Arjuna).
his wife were roaming in the forest in the form of deer. KIRMlRA. A fierce Raksasa, brother of Baka and
While hunting, King Pandu discharged his arrow friend of Hidimba. Having heard about the death of
against the he-deer. It assumed its original form as Baka hands of Bhlma, Kirmira who was living
at the
sage Kindama and told the King that it was wrong on in Kamyaka forest planned a revenge against Bhlma.
his part to have hit him (the sage) while he was After being defeated in the game of dice the Pandavas
engaged in love play. "I am dying, but in future if came to the forest, and they confronted Kirmira. In
you physically contact your wife you too will die." After the duel with Bhlma, Kirmira fell down dead. (Vana
saying so the sage fell down dead. Pandu could never Parva, Chapter 11).
have children of his own from his wives due to this KIRTI I. Daughter of Suka Brahmarsi, son of Vyasa.
curse. He
about the curse once, embraced
forgot all Suka wedded Pivarl, the beautiful daughter of the
Madri and down
dead. (Adi Parva, Chapter 117).
fell Pitrs. Four sons named Krsna, Gauraprabha, Bhuri
KINDANA (M). A sacred place in Kuruksetra. A holy and Devas ruta and a daughter Kirti were born to
dip here is productive of innumerable auspicious Suka and Pivarl. Kirti was wedded by Prince Arm,
results. son of King Vibhrama, and a son called Brahmadatta
KINDATTAKUPA. A holy pond. He who sows was born to them, who grew up to become a great
gingelly seeds in the pond is redeemed from the three scholar and an ascetic. On the advice of Narada,
Rnas (debts) i.e. Rsi-Rna Pitr-Rna and Deva-rna. The King Brahmadatta ultimately abdicated the throne in
first is to be redeemed by Brahmacarya (celibacy) . favour of his son, performed penance at Badaryasrama
the second by house-holder's life and the third by and attained salvation. (Devi Bhagavata, 1st Skandha).
yajnas. (Vana Parva, Chapter 88) . KlRTI II. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. Svayambhu-
KINJAPYA. A particular holy place in Kuruksetra. A va Manu wedded his own sister Satarupa, and to them
bath here is productive of innumerable auspicious were born two sons called Priyavrata and Uttanapada
results. and two daughters called Prasuti and Akuti. Daksa-
KI51KANA. A King born in the lunar dynasty. Nam- prajapati married Prasuti, and they had twenty-four
roci,Kirikana and Vrsni were the three sons of King daughters who were Sraddha, Laksmi, Dhrti, Tusti,
:
stick that Kala kills living beings. "Like Kala who KIRTIDHARMA. A Ksatriya hero, who was a
holds the stick Kinkara". (Karna Parva, Chapter 56,
supporter of Dharmaputra. (Drona Parva, Chapter
Verse 122). 158, Verse 39).
KI&KARA (S). A race of Raksasas. After building KlRTIMAN I. The first son born to Vasudeva and
the palace at Indraprastha for the Pandavas Mayasura Devakl. As a celestial voice had warned Kamsa that
put 8000 Kiiikaras for guarding the palace (Sabha the eighth son of Devakl would kill him he had ordered
Parva, Chapter 3) These guards were able to remove
. that every child born to her should be taken to him.
the palace from one place to another. Yudhisthira, who Accordingly the first-born son of Devaki was taken to
started for the north to collect money is said to him, but was returned to the parents as Kamsa thought
KIRTIMAN II 413 KISKINDHA
that he was not his enemy. He was brought up under Once upon a time a son called Bali was born to Arunl-
the name Klrtiman. Afterwards Narada visited Karhsa devi by Indra, and another son called Sugrlva was born
and explained to him about his former birth, the to her by Surya. (See under Aruna) Both the boys
.
object of Krsna's incarnation etc. This information so were brought up in the Asrama of sage Gautama.
angered Karhsa that he got Vasudeva and Devaki When they grew up, Indra handed them over to Rksa-
chained in prison. Moreover he brought back the raja, and thus Bali and Sugrlva came to Kiskindha.
first-born son of Devaki and dashed him to death on After the death of Rksaraja, Bali became King of Kis-
a stone. Thus ended the life of Klrtiman. kindha. and Sugrlva lived in the service of his brother.
KlRTIMAN II. Mahavisnu mentally created a son At that time there was a very mighty Asura called
called Virajas, and Klrtiman was his son. A son called Dundubhi. Finding no one fit to fight with, he challeng-
Kardama was born to Kirtiman. (Sand Parva, Chapter ed Varuna. Varuna directed him to Himavan, whose
59, Verse 90). peaks he rent asunder, and played with. Then Himavan
K-lRTIMAN III. A Visvadeva (universal deva). told Dundubhi that he was of a peaceful nature and
(Anusasana Parva, Chapter 91, Verse 31). that Bali would be a match for him (Dundubhi).
KlRTIMUKHA. A Siva gana born out of the matted Accordingly Dundubhi fought with Bali and got killed.
hair of Siva with three faces, three tails, three legs and Bali cast away the corpse of Dundubhi. The blood
seven hands. The Lord at first asked him to live on oozing out from the nose of Dundubhi fell on the
corpses, but later on, in appreciation of his valour body of sage Mataiiga who was engaged in penance on
granted him the boon that if anyone saw the Lord the peak Rsyamuka. By means of his divine powers, the
without thinking first about Kirtimukha, he would sage found out the origin of the blood contaminating his
meet with his down-fall. (Padma Purana, Uttara body, and cursed that Bali would die the moment he
Khanda, Chapter 50) . set foot on the mountain.
KlRTISENA. Son of brother of the Naga chief
the Dundubhi's son Mayavi was enraged at the death of
Vasuki. He made a love-marriage with Srutartha his father. He went to Kiskindha to take revenge on
daughter of a brahmin, and a child was born to them. Bali, but got defeated by the latter in fighting. Mayavi
(Kathasaritsagara, Kathaplthakalambaka) . took to his heels; Bali followed him, and Sugrlva follow-
KlRTISENA. A heroine who has firmly established her ed his brother. Mayavi took refuge in a cave followed
reputation in Sanskrit literature. An exceptionally by Bali, and Sugrlva waited at the mouth of cave. Even
good woman, Kirtisena was the daughter of a merchant after one year neither Bali nor Mayavi emerged out of
called Dhanapala in Pataliputra, and was married by the cave, but Sugrlva saw blood coming out of the
another merchant called Devasena. Once Devasena cave and heard Mayavi roaring. Taking it for granted
left the country for purposes of trade, and during his that Bali was killed, Sugrlva closed the mouth of the
absence from home the mother-in-law of Kirtisena shut cave, returned to Kiskindha, and at the instance of his
her up in a dark room. But, with the help of an iron subjects assumed kingship.
rod, which fortunately came to her hands she made a But, Bali forced open the cave, hurried back to his
hole in the room at night, and through it escaped kingdom, and interpreting the action of Sugrlva as
from captivity. Hungry and thirsty, Kirtisena travelled one purposely done to usurp the throne, drove
a long distance in the forest, and at night climbed a Sugrlva away and took for himself Sugrlva's wife. Thus
tree and rested thereon. Presently a Raksasa woman Bali became again King of Kiskindha.
with her children came to the foot of the tree. There is a mountain called "Bali-kera-mala" mountain
During this period the King of Vasudattapura was prohibited to Bali in the eastern region of the former
suffering from pain in the head because a bug entered princely kingdom of Travancore. Is it in any way con-
his ear and multiplied there in numbers. All the nected with Rsyamukacala ?
physicians gave up the case as incurable. But, the Sugrlva founded a new kingdom at Rsyamuka moun-
RaksasT at the foot of the tree advised the following tain. Mainda, Dvivida, Hanuman and Jambavan
cure for the King's illness to her children "Anoint
: were the ministers of Sugrlva. It was while Sugrlva was
the King's head with ghee and make him lie in the thus living on Rsyamukacala that Rama and Laksmana
sun at noon. After that insert a small tube into his came that way in the course of their search for Sita. In
ear, and keep the other end of the tube in a pot full accordance with the agreement made between Sugrlva
of water. Then the bugs will come out from the ear and Rama, the latter killed Bali and crowned Sugrlva
into the water, and the King will be cured of his ill- as the King of Kiskindha. (Valmiki Ramayana, Kis-
ness. kindha Kanda, and Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chap-
Kirtisena, who heard this medical advice from her ter 280) .
seat on top of the tree disguised herself as a physician, During the triumphal tour of Sahadeva in the South he
went to the palace and cured the King of his troubles. fought against Kiskindha, and after seven days' fighting
In her disguise, she continued to live in the palace as the monkeys saw Sahadeva off with a present of costly
a friend of the King. Shortly, her husband Devasena, gems.
came there and they were happily reunited. The King "Sahadeva fought against the monkey chiefs like
gave them costly presents. (Kathasaritsagara, Madana- Mainda, Dvivida etc. for seven days, but neither of
manjukalambaka, Taranga 3). them got exhausted, and the monkey chiefs, with
KISKINDHA. An ancient kingdom of the monkeys in affection and gratitude asked Sahadeva to depart with
South India. This kingdom is mentioned both in the gems." (Sabha Parva, Chapter 31).
Ramayana and the Mahabharata. During this period nothing was heard of Sugrlva,
During the Ramayana period a monkey King called Hanuman and Jambavan in Kiskindha. Might be
Rksaraja was the ruler of Kiskindha. He was childless. Sugrlva was no more. Hanuman, after the death of Sri
KISKINDHAGUHA 414 KOLLAVARSA
Riima, lived in Gandhamadana in Kimpurusavarsa. But no documents are available to prove that there
(Bharata and Bhagavata, 10th Skandha) From the . was any connection between the two families till the 5th
story of Prasena it may be seen that Jambavan left century M.E. (Malayalam Era), i.e. 14th century A.D.
Kiskindha and lived in another cave with his sons See under Kollavarsa.
and other relations. It was the other two ministers of KOLIKA (KOKILA) This is the name of a rat. Kokila
.
Sugriva, Mainda and Dvivida, who were ruling Kis- is a character in the story known as Bidalopakhyana,
kindha when Sahadeva went there. The power and told by Narada to Dhrtarastra. Once a cat
began to
prestige of Kiskindha had begun to set by then, and in
perform penance holding up both of its hands, on the
course of time Kiskindha ceased to exist but in name. bank of the Gangfi. After a long time birds and rats
KISKINDHAGUHA. A mountainous region in Dhavad began to come very close to it believing that it would
district inSouth India. Certain scholars hold the view not hurt them. They made the cat their leader. The
that this was the actual Kiskindha. wicked cat daily ate a rat secretly. Thus the body of
KlTAKA. A King born from an aspect oftheAsura the cat grew stronger day by day and there appeared a
called Krodhavasa. (Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 60). steady decrease in the number of the rats. Among them
KITAVA (S) An ancient tribe of people. They once
.
there was a wise rat called Kokila. He understood the
visited Yudhisjhira with many presents. (Sabha Parva, So proclaiming independence
deceit played by the cat.
Chapter 51, Verse 12). he and his fellows ran away and saved themselves.
KOHALA. A Brahmin scholar. It is stated in Maha- (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 160).
bharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 53, Stanza 4, that this KOLISARPA. A tribe. Formerly this tribe was of Ksa-
Brahmin was present at the 'Sarpa Sattra' (sacrifice to
triya Caste. A Brahmin once cursed them and made
kill serpents) of Janamejaya. Once Bhaglratha gave
them Sudras. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 33,
this hermit as alms one lakh of cows with calves. (M.B.
Stanza 22).
Anusasana Parva, Chapter 138, Stanza 27).
KOKA. (Cakravaka bird). Ruddy Goose. To know the KOLLAGIREYA. An ancient country in South India.
Puranic story about the origin of this bird (Ruddy
It is stated in Mahabharata, Asvamedha Parva, Chapter
83, that Arjuna conquered this country.
goose) see under 'Arayanna' (Swan) .
KOKA.MUKHA. A holy place. It is mentioned in Maha- KOLLAVARSA. (MALAYALAM ERA). Several opinions
bharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Stanza 153, that
have been brought forward about the starting of the
those who bathe in this holy bath will get the faculty Malayalam Era. There is great controversy as to the
of remembering their previous births. causes of starting this new era. The opinion of San-
KOKANADA A kunni Menon is as follows. The King Udayamartanda-
I. Ksatriya King of ancient India. It
is mentioned in Maharbharata, Sabha Parva, that at the varma called together at Quilon, an assembly of the
time of the regional conquest of Arjuna, this
learned men and astronomers of the -time, in Kalivarsa
King fell
at his feet and sought refuge. 3926 (A.D. 825) and made astronomical researches and
KOKANADA II. A warrior of Skanda. (M.B. Sabha taking into account the movements and positions of the
various planets in the solar system, started a new era
Parva, Chapter 27) .
KOKAVAKA. A country in ancient India. (M.B. beginning with the month of Cihiiam (August-Septem-
Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9) . ber). This new era commenced on the 15th of August
KOKILA. See under Dindika. 825 A.D. All the learned men and scholars of the time
KOKILAKA. A warrior of Skanda. (Mahabharata, welcomed this Malayalam era. The neighbouring king-
doms also recognized this new era. Reckoning of dates
Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 73) .
KOLAGIRI. A mountain of South India. (Mahabharata based on this Malayalam Era is seen in the 'Madura
Sabha Parva) Sahadeva conquered the people of this
.
and Tinnevelly Stone-edicts and copper edicts.' On
mountain. the fifth day of Cinnarh of the first year of M.E., five
KOLAHALA A
famous Asura. In the battle between royal families of Travancore met together and took a
the Devas and Asuras carried on by Subrahmanya,
the decision that the festival days of the temples should be
this Asura confronted Malyavan and was killed. (Padma reckoned according to the Malayalam Era. The contro-
Purana; Part IV, Chapter 13). versy is not about the starting of the new Era, but the
KOLAS' VROPA KOLATTUNADU After the decline reasons for starting the new era.
( ) .
of the second Cera empire in Kerala, several royal Logan says that the Malayalam Era was started in
families such as Perumpafappu, Neduvirippu, Kolasva- commemoration of the conversion of Ceraman Perumal
rupa, Venatu etc. came into power. Some details regard- to Islam and his pilgrimage to Mecca. But there is im-
ing the family of Kolasvarupa are given below. propriety in thinking that the Hindu subjects of a King
In 'Kerala Mahatmya', it is given that Paras urama would commemorate the conversion of their King into
had made a Soma-Ksatriya, as King of Cirakkal or Islam religion. Some say that the new era was started
Kolattunadu. According to 'Keralotpatti' it was Cera- to commemorate the erection of a Saivite temple. An-
man Perumal who did this. Logan says that Kolasva- other argument is that a new era was started in memory
rupa came into being from the children born to the of the exhortation of Sri Saiikaracarya to the Brahmins
last Perumal of the Venatu family. In the edicts Vira- of Quilon, to do away with the irregularities seen in the
raghavapat{aya or Jutasasana no mention is made Hindu religion. The period of Sankaracarya has not
about Kolattunadu. Both the families of Venatu and yet been decided definitely. The opinion accepted by
Kolattunadu, from very early times had observed scholars on this subject is that of K.B. Pathak, accord-
the customary rites of taint, pollution, defilement etc. ing to whom Saiikaracarya lived from 787 to 819 A.D.
It is said in 'Keralamahatmya' that Paras urama had If this is accepted as true, the exhortation made in
enthroned the sons of two sisters in both the kingdoms. 825 A.D. should be by somebody else and the Malaya-
KOLLAVARSA 415 KOSALA(S)
lam Era should have been established for some ot her Kollavarsa with Paras' urama. Buchanan said that
reasons. the Malayalees have a recurring of every millennium.
Another opinion that the new era was established
is Burnell has stated in his book "South Indian Paleo-
to commemorate the independence given to the two graphy", that the theory of recurring Millennium is
Kolattiri Kings (North and South) by the Perumal. The wrong.
North Kolattiri family should have begun the new era An astronomer who was a contemporary of the King
on the first day of Kanni (the second month) and the who established the Malayalam era has stated in his
South Kolattiri family on the first day of Cinnarh work called 'Sankaranarayaniya' (a manuscript in
(the first month). (Because in Malabar area, the era Palm leaves) that an astronomical movement was
commences on the first day of Kanni.). Another opinion reckoned and a new era was started at Quilon. This
that is prevalent is that Kollavarsa was started to com-
palm leaf manuscript is kept in the Manuscripts
memorate the erection of the two towns of Quilon Library at Trivandrum.
(North and South). But even two centuries before A.D. KQtslKANA. An ancient South India.
country of
825 the town of South Quilon had become famous. So it
( Mahabharata, Bhlsma Parva, Chapter Stanza 60).' 9,
is an objection to this argument. Some are of opinion
that a new era was started in commemoration of KOPAVEGA. A hermit. This hermit had served
Yudhisthira. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 16).
Sankaravijaya (the victory of Sarikara) due to the
fact that the Brahmins of the north and the south KOSA. A river. It is stated in Mahabharata, Bhlsma
alike accepted the teachings of Sankaracarya. But it is Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 27, that the water of this
difficult to believe that the northerners and the souther- river was used for drinking by the ancient people of
ners accepted the teachings of Sankara.ca.rya on a parti- Bharata.
cular date and issued a declaration to that effect and KOSAKARA. See under NiSakara II.
started a new era. Some connect the starting of the KOSALA I. The King and the people of the country
New Era with the 'Tiruvonam' a grand festival of the of Kosala are called by the name Kosala.
Malayalees. But it cannot be believed that a national KOSALA II. One of the wrestlers of Karhsa. The
festival was started by a single man. According to famous wrestlers of Karhsa were Canura, Mustika,
Logan it would appear that the grand festival of Tiru- Kuta, Sala, Kosala and others.
vonam was started to commemorate the journey of KOSALA.
Perumal to Mecca. But the conversion episode is more 1
)
General information. A wealthy and prosperous
likely to be considered as a blasphemy and the Kings country on the banks of the river Sarayu. Ayodhya
and people of Malayala land are not likely to com- was the Capital of this kingdom. This city was built
memorate it. Prof. Sundaran Pillai has cut all the by Manu, the father of Iksvaku. This city was twelve
arguments given above and brought forward a new yojanas long with a breadth of three yojanas. It is
theory. His inference is that the new Era is the trans- understood from Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda,
formation of an old era known as Saptarsivatsara Sarga 5 that during the time of Dasaratha this city was
( year
of the seven sages ) or iSastrasarhvatsara (scien- modified to such an extent as to be on a par with any
tific year) which prevailed throughout India and modern city.
is still in force in Ka?'m!ra. In A.D. 897 Saptarsi- 2) Other details. (1) Bhlmasena once conquered
Vatsara was 4972 and it was known as merely 72, and Uttara Kosala (north Kosala). (M.B. Sabha Parva,
that if all the hundreds are taken away, the remaining Chapter 30) .
figure will be the same as that of the Kollavarsa. That (2) Sahadeva during his regional conquest, subdued
is, at the expiry of each century the Saptarsivatsara Daksina Kosala (South Kosala). (M.B. Sabha Parva,
begins as one, two and so on. But the Saptarsivatsara Chapter 31, Stanza 12).
begins in the month of Metam (9th month) where- (3) Sri Krsna once conquered the country of Kosala.
as Kollavarsa begins in Cinnam. He explains this differ- (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 21, Stanza 15).
ence also. His opinion is that the Nambutiri Brahmins (4) Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna, killed the King
took some time to reach the country of Malayala from of Kosala in the battle of Bharata.
North Indian countries and they had been using their (5) Kama once conquered, this country for Duryodhana.
Saptarsivatsara up to the time of their arrival in Mala- (M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter 8, Stanza 19) .
yala and after their arrival they adopted some slight (6) During the time of the battle of Bharata a King
modifications in the era according to the requirements named KsemadarsI ruled over Kosala. (M.B. Santi
of the new settlement, and renewed the Saptarsivatsara.
Parva, Chapter 82, Stanza 6).
Gopala Iyer, the great exponent of the Vedanta
(7) At the time of the Svayarhvara (marriage) of
philosophy, says as follows about Kollavarsa in his
Amba, Bhlsma defeated the King of Kosala. (M.B.
'Chronology of Ancient India' "Kaliyuga and
:
fearing Jarasandha. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 14, and intermingled from beginning to end and end to
Stanza 27). beginning. There are rules to make combined words by
KOSTHAVAN. A mountain. It is stated in Maha- using prefixes and suffixes. These rules are called
bharata, Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 43 that this Pratisakhya. Because the Vedas are taught in this way
mountain was the overlord of many other mountains. with so much attention and care, their texts have never
KOTARA. An attendant of Skanda. (M.B. Salya Parva, been subjected changes and variations.
to
'Kotiliagesvar in some of his poetic works. The word Yaksa. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 32, Stanza 18).
'Kotilinga' is the Sanskrit form of the Dravidian word KRATHA VII. An Asura (demon). It is stated in
Kotuririallur. This city was the Capital of the Cera Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 67 Stanza 57 that
Kings. this Asura was born as King Suryaksa on the earth in
KOTlSA. A serpent born in the family of Vasuki. (M.B. his re-birth.
Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Stanza 5) . KRATHA Name of a son of Dhrtarastra. (M.B.
VIII.
KOTITlRTHA. A holy bath. It is mentioned in Maha- Chapter 116, Stanza 11).
/\di Parva,
bharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 82, that those who bathe KRATHA I. A f mous King in Ancient India. The
in this holy bath will get the fruits of performing the following details about this King are found found
horse sacrifice. in the Mahabharata.
KOTTUVA. (Yawning, Gape). In Devi Bhagavata, (
1
)
He was the rebirth of an Asura called Rahu,
Skandha 6, there is a story explaining how the living the son of Sirhhika. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 67,
beings began to awn. After getting boons from
*
Stanza 40).
Brahma, Vrttrasura swallowed Indra. The Devas were (2) Kratha attended the Svayamvara (marriage) of
filled with fea and approaching Brhaspati they re- Draupadl. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 186, Stanza 15).
presented their grievance. According to the instruction (3) Sri Krsna defeated Kratha at the city of Jaruthi.
of Brhaspati the Devas caused Vrttrasura to gape. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 12, Stanza 30).
After opening the mouth he found it difficult to shut, (4) In the battle of Bharata this King attacked Abhi-
and the mouth remained open. In the meanwhile manyu. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 26).
Indra jumped out of Vrtra through the mouth. Gape (5) In the battle of Bharata Kratha killed the prince of
came into existence from that time. (For details see Kalinga, and a King from the- mountain killed
under the word Vrtra. Kratha. (M.B. Kama Parva, Chapter 85, Stanza 15).
KRAMAJIT. A Ksatriya King who was a constant KRATHA II. A King of the Puru dynasty. (M.B. Adi
follower of Dharmaputra. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter Parva Chapter 94, Stanza 58) .
KRAMAPATHA. A method of teaching the Vedas. It KRATHA V. A famous serpent. At the time of the
is due to the insistence on strict adherence to this
death of Balabhadra this serpent came there to lead
method of teaching that even after thousands of years
his soul to Patala (nether world) (M.B. Mausala Parva,
.
and the second step of Krama patha are mixed together 21 Prajapatis (lords of emanation).
KRAUNCA I 417 KRMI I
2) Some details. (1) It is stated in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 225, Stanza 33, mention is made that
Parva, Chapter 65, Stanza 9, that the hermits called through this cleavage swans and vultures fly to Mahii-
Balakhilyas were the sons of Kratu. meru. (For the story of how Parasurama cleft the
Kraunca mountain see under Parasurama).
(2) Kratu was present at the birth-celebration of
Arjuna. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 52).
KRAUNCA III. (A kind of snipe) A bird.
.
(5) Kratu was present at the Birth celebration of Viskambha. The various countries in this island are
Skandadeva. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 10).
Kusala, Manonuga, Usna, Pravaraka, Andhakaraka,
(6) There is a group of hermits called 'Citrasikhandins, Munidesa, Dundubhisvana etc.
of which Kratu is a member. (M.B. Santi Parva, KRAUMCANISUDANA. A holy place on the banks
Chapter 335, Stanza 27) .
of river Sarasvati. It is mentioned in Mahabharata,
(7) By the blessings of Siva, Kratu got a thousand sons. Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Stanza 160 that he who bathes
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 14, Stanza 87). in this_ place would get a Vimana.
(8) Kratu went to visit Bhisma who was lying on the KRAUNCAPADl. A holy place. He who makes ob-
bed of arrows awaiting death in the beginning of lations of balls of boiled rice in this place will obtain
Uttarayana of the year. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, remission of sin of Brahmahatya (sin incurred by
Chapter 26, Stanza 4). killing a Brahmin) .
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter
KRAUNCA I. An Asura. In Vamana Purana, Chap- 25, Stanza 42).
ter 57 it is mentioned that this Asura was killed by KRAUNCARUNAVYUHA. Another name of Kraunca-
Subrahmanya. vyuha (strategic of an army). Dhrsta-
disposition
KRAUNCA II. A mountain. There is a story about this dyumna formed theKrauncarunavyuha. (Mahabharata,
mountain. Long ago there lived an Asura named Bhisma Parva, Chapter 50).
Kraunca. He was leading a wicked life and was KRAUNCAVYUHA. A strategic formation of the army
haughty and arrogant. Once Agastya went to Kailasa in the shape of Kraunca bird (snipe). In the battle
and worshipped Siva. KaveridevI also was standing of Bharata, Bhisma made the formation of Kraunca.
close by, worshipping Siva. God Siva appeared before (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 75). The Kraunca dis-
Agastya and told him that he might ask for any boon. position has eight strategical positions, the face, eyes,
He requested for the power to push down Vindhya by head, neck, stomach, left flank, right flank and thighs.
kicking and to establish a holy Tirtha (bath) on the In the disposition formed by Bhisma, Drona stood at
earth. Siva granted the boons. For making the tirtha the face, Asvatthama and Krpa stood at the eyes,
Siva turned Kaveri into a river and placed her in the Hardikya at the head and Surasena at the neck. The
water-pot of Agastya. As Agastya was returning from King of Pragjyotisa stood at the stomach of the form-
Kailasa with Kaveri in his water-pot, Krauftca the ation. The Tusaras, Yavanas, Sakas and Cupuvas
Asura took the shape of a mountain and hindered his guarded the right flank. Srtayus and Bhurisravas kept
way. The Asura caused a heavy rain too. Agastya the thighs.
wandered through the forest without finding the path KRAUNCI. A daughter born to Kasyapaprajapati by
for days. At last he realized the cause. He took a few his wife Tamrathe daughter of Daksa. Five daughters,
drops of water from his waterpot and with chanting of KrauncI, Bhasi, Syeni, Dhrtarastri and Sukl were born
Mantras and meditation threw the drops at the Asura of Tamra. From Krauftci, were born the owls, the Bhasas
with the curse that he would stand there for ever as a from Bhasi, the hawks and vultures from Syeni, the
mountain. He said that he would be liberated from the swans and ruddy geese from Dhrtarastri and Nara, the
curse when pierced by the arrow of Subrahmanya, the mother of Vinata from Sukl. (Vf.lmlki Ramayana,
son of Siva. From that day onwards Krauiica the Asura Sarga 14) .
the battlefield and hid himself inside the mountain KRKA^TEYU. (KAKSEYU). One of the ten sons whom
Kraunca. Subrahmanya cleft the mountain into two King Raudrasva of the Puru dynasty begot of the
with the arrow given by Agni (Fire-god) . Thus Apsaras called Mistakes I. (Adi Parva, Chapter 94
Krauncasura was liberated from the curse. (M.B. Salya Verse 10).
Parva, Chapter 46) . KRMI I. A King of the royal dynasty of Aiiga. King
In 'Meghaduta' Kalidasa mentions about the cleavage Uslnara had five wives named Nrga, Nara, KrmI,
in the mountain Kraunca. In Mahabharata, Vana Das a and DrsadvatI, and of them were born
respective-
KRMI II 418 KRPA II
ly the sons
Nrga, Nara, Krmi, Suvrata and Sibi. (Agni ran to Kubera to inform him of this theft. It is stated
Purana, Chapter 227). in Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 285, Stanza 2
KRMI II. A wife of Usinara. (See under Krmi I). that these Krodhavasas were present in the army of
KRMI III. A Ksatriya dynasty. (Udyoga Parva, Ravana.
Chapter 74, Verse J3). KROSANA. A female attendant of Skanda. (M.B. Salya
KRMI IV. A river. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 17). Parva, Chapter 46, Stanza 1 7) .
KRMIBHOJANA (M). One of the twentyeight hells. KROSTA. A son of Yadu. Sahasrada, Payoda, Krosta,
(See Naraka under Kala I) . Nila and Ajika were the five sons of Yadu. (Harivamsa,
KRMILA. A king born in the Puru dynasty. There was Chapter 38).
a king in the dynasty called Bahyasva, who had five KRPA I. A King in ancient India. He never ate flesh.
sons called Srnjaya, Brhadisu, Mukula, Krmila and 115, Verse 64).
(Anusasana Parva, Chapter
Yavmara. In later years they became famous as Pan- KRPA
calas.
II. (KRPACARYA) .
KRMlSA. A hell known as Krmibhojana also. (See Atri Candra Budha Pururavas Ayus Nahusa
under Kala I.) Puru Janamejaya Pracinvan Pravlra
Yayati
KRODHA I. A famous Asura born to Kasyapa by his
Namasyu Vitabhaya Sundu Bahuvidha Sariiyati
wife Kala. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 65, Stanza 35). Matinara Santurodha
Rahovadi Raudrasva
KRODHA II. It is stated in Bhagavata thatKrodha was
Dusyanta Bharata Suhota Gala Garda Suketu
born from the eye-brow of Brahma. There is a story Brhatksetra Hasti Ajamidha Nila Santi Suganti
about this Krodha in the 'Jaimini-Asvamedha Parva'. Arka BhavyaSva Pancala Mudgala. A dau-
Puruja
Once, while the hermit Jamadagni was performing
ghter called Ahalya was born to Mudgala. Maharsi Gau-
sacrificial offerings to the Manes, Krodha came there
tama married her. To Gautama was born Satananda, to
and secretly put poison in the pudding prepared from him Satyadhrti, to him Saradvan and to Saradvan was
the milk of the sacrificial cow. Even though the hermit
born Krpacarya. The Puranas refer to the generation
knew this he did not get angry. Seeing this, Krodha Gautama only
in the maternal line. It is said
became afraid of the hermit and approaching him said preceding
in verse 2, Chapter 130 of the Adi Parva, that Saradvan
"Oh, hermit I thought that the Bhargavas (those
!
was the son of Gautama. According to Agni Purana,
born of the family of Bhrgu) would get angry quickly.
Now I understand that it is wrong." Jamadagni pardon- Bhagavata etc. Saradvan, father of Krpa was the son
of the great-grand son of Gautama and grandson of
ed him and said "But you have to appease the anger
:
Satananda. (Agni Purana, Chapter 278) .
6) Activities of Krpa upto the great war. (i) He attended (xxiv) He killed the soldiers who ran away from the
the Rajasuya yajna of Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Pandava camp. (Sauptika Parva, Chapter 8, Verse
Chapter 34, Verse 8). 106).
There he acted as the custodian of money and distri- (xxv) He set fire to the camp of the Pandavas.
buted daksinas (monetary presents). (Sabha Parva, (Sauptika Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 109).
Chapter 35, Verse 7) .
(xxvi) He cried at the pitiable condition of Duryo-
(ii) It was he who instructed the spies deputed by dhana. (Sauptika Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 10).
Duryodhana as to how to detect the Pandavas during (xxvii) He went to Hastinapura after telling
Dhrta-
their life incognito. (Virata Parva, Chapter 29) He .
rastra and Gandharl that both the Kauravas and the
also detailed to Duryodhana the various aspects of Pandavas would be ruined. (Stri Parva, Chapter 11,
politics. Verse 21).
(iii ) Krpa once told Duryodhana that he was powerful 8 ) End of Krpa. The great war ended. Duryodhana
.
enough to annihilate the Pandava army within two and others were killed and, when Dhrtarastra left for
months. (Virata Parva, Chapter 193). the forest with Gandhari, Krpa desired to accompany
7) Krpa in the war. ( i) On the first day of the war he them. But, Dhrtarastra did not permit it. Yudhisthira,
fought with Brhatksetra. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 45). as advised by Dhrtarastra, put up Krpa with him.
(ii) In the fight with Cekitana he fell down and faint- (Ailramavasika Parva, Chapter 16, Verse 5). Before the
ed. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 84, Verse 31) . Pandavas set out on their great journey Yudhisthira
(iii) He wounded Satyaki. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter appointed Krpa as the preceptor of Parlksit, the son of
101, Verse 40). Arjuna. (Mahaprasthana Parva, Chapter 1, Verse 4).
(iv) Fought a duel with Sahadeva. (Bhisma Parva, During his last days Krpa went into the forest for penan-
Chapter 110, Verse 12). ce and there he breathed his last. (Sand Parva,
(v) He fought with Arjuna and Bhlma. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 296, Verse 14) .
Chapter 113, Verse 114). 9) Synonyms for Krpa. Acarya, Acaryasattama, Bhara-
(vi) Fought with Dhrstaketu. (Drona Parva, Chapter tacarya. Brahmarsi, Saradvata, Saradvataputra,
14, Verse 33). Gautama, Krpa.
(vii) Fought with Vardhaksemi. (Drona Parva, KRPI. (See Para 2 under Krpa II) .
Chapter 25, Verse 41). Later history.Krpi was brought up in the palace of
His flag floated in the air and could be seen
(viii) King Santanu. She was duly married by Dronacarya
from anywhere in the battlefield. (Drona Parva, and a son called Asvatthama was born to them. (Adi
Chapter '105). Parva, Chapter 1 30 ) Krpi lamented very much over
.
(ix) He killed the body-guards of Abhimanyu. (Drona the death of Drona in the great war. (Stri Parva,
Parva, Chapter 42, Verse 38) .
Chapter 23, Verse'33) .
(x) Fighting with Arjuna he fainted and fell down. The terms Saradvati and Gautami are used as
(Drona Parva, Chapter 147 Verse 9) .
synonyms of Krpi in the Mahabharata.
(xi) During the fight he ridiculed Karna. (Drona KRSA. I. A friend of sage Srngi. Since Kr a underwent
Parva, Chapter 158, Verse 13). a lot of sacrifices for the protection of dharma (righte-
He advised Asvatthama to prevent Duryodhana
body became very Krsa (lean) Hence he
(xii)
from confronting Arjuna. (Drona Parva, Chapter 150, ousness) his .
(xviii) He killed the Kalinda prince. (Karna Parva, KRSADRATHA. Son of Titiksa, brother of the famous
Chapter 85, Verse 6) .
emperor Sibi. (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha) .
KR.SAKA 420 KRSl^A
KR.SAKA. A naga born in the Kagyapa dynasty. In that case, in the next birth I shall satisfy
this life.
Jaya and Suprabha the daughters of Daksaprajapati Accordingly sage Narayana was born as Sri Krsna in
and to both were born fifty sons each. All the sons were the Yadu dynasty, and sage Nara was born as Arjuna to
really arrows called Sarhhara. Visvamitra, by the power be his companion.
of penance made these hundred sons (arrows) ofKrsa- The curse of Bhrgu the great sage also contributed to
va his own. It was these arrows, which Visvamitra Mahavisnu's incarnating himself as Sri Krsna. Once
gave to Sri Rama and Laksmana. (Vahnlki Ramayana, in a war which lasted for 100 years between the Devas
Balakanda, Cantos 21 and 26) .
and the Asuras most of the latter were killed. Then
KR.SASVA II. A king of the solar dynasty. (Bhagavata, Sukra, preceptor of the Asuras went to Mount
9th Skandha). Kailasa to secure exceptional weapons, and the Asuras
KR.SASVA III. A King who served Yama in his court.
took refuge under Kavyamata, the mother of Sukra.
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 17). Devendra sought Mahavisnu's aid, and he cut off
Once he came down to earth in Indra's Vimana to
Kavyamata's head with his Cakra (discus). Bhrgu
witness Arjuna, in the company of Uttara, the Virata was enraged at this killing of a woman. He cursed that
prince, fight during the lifting of cows. (Sabha Parva, Mahavisnu should be born as man. Owing to various
Chapter 56) .
reasons like the above Mahavisnu happened to be
KRSEYU. A King born in the Puru dynasty. (See under born as man in the Yadava dynasty, as the son of
PURUVAMSA) .
Vasudeva. (Devi Bhagavata, 5th Skandha).
KRSlVALA. An ancient sage who lived in Indra's
3) Vasudeva' s wedding. To Surasena, the Yadava King
court.(Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 13). of Mathurapuri was born a son called Vasudeva, and
KRSNA (SRI KRSNA) Born in the Yadava dynasty
.
Sura
Karhsa stood up in the chariot ablaze with rage. He
tra Prgni Citraratha Viduratha Sini-
caught hold of DevakI by her hair and raised his
bhoja Hrdlka Surasena Vasudeva Sri Krsna. sword to cut her throat. All the conciliatory words of
Ten sons called Vasudeva, Devabhaga, Devas ravas,
Vasudeva failed to pacify Karhsa. Then Vasudeva
Anaka, Srnjaya, Kakanlka, Syamaka, Vatsa, Kavuka
and Vasu were born to King Surasena by his wife promised to hand over to Kamsa all the children born
to DevakI immediately after their birth. Accordingly
Marisa. Of those ten sons Vasudeva married DevakI,
the sister of Karhsa. He had also a second wife called
Kamsa left them alone.
Rohini and she was the mother of Balabhadrarama. 4) First-born son of Vasudeva. The first-born child of
a curse of Vasudeva was duly handed over to Kamsa. But, he
2) Sri Krsna' s former births. Owing to
returned the child to its parents as, according to the
Varuna, Kasyapaprajapati was born on as earth
Vasudeva and his (KaSyapa) wives Aditi and Surasa celestial voice the first-born child was not to be his
were born as Devaki and Rohini. (See under Kasyapa enemy. Vasudeva and DevakI brought it up under the
and Aditi). Like this Sri Krsna also had previous births. name Klrtiman. On one of those days Narada visited
Once upon a time from the heart of Brahma was Karhsa and told him about his previous life, the
born the Prajapati called Dharma, who was very truth- object of Krsna's incarnation etc. Then it was that
ful and wedded to righteous living according to the Karhsa realised how fatal to him was the existence of
Vasudeva and DevakI, and he hurried up to them and
injunctions of the Vedas. He wedded the ten daughters
of Daksaprajapati, and four sons called Hari, Krsna killed the child by dashing its head against a rock. He
Nara and Narayana were born to him. Hari and also kept them chained in prison.
Krsna turned out to be great Yogins, and Nara and 5) Kamsa's excitement. The information imparted by
Narayana ascetics. Naranarayanas performed penance Narada upset Kamsa much. He shut his father
to please Brahma for a thousand years at Badarik- Ugrasena in prison and himself became King. He
asrama in the valley of the Himalayas. Celestial deputed Asuras like Pralamba, Canura, Trnavarta,
women, whom Indra had deputed to break their Mustika, Arista, Kesl Dhenuka, Agha, Vivida and
;
penance, approached them and requested them to take Putana to harass the Yadavas, the Andhakas and the
them (celestial women) as their wives. Ascetic Nara- Vrsnis. After the death of Klrtiman, DevakI, in the
yana who got angry at the celestial women's request prison, delivered five sons. (See under Karhsa. Para 2
was about to curse them when sage Nara intervened for the previous history of the first six sons of DevakI) .
and pacified him. Then sage Narayana told them Karhsa killed all the five children also as soon as they
thus : "You must protect my Vrata (penance) in were born.
421 KRSNA
6) Birth of Sri Krsna. The Asuras killed in the old the child slipped free of his hands and rose in the sky
Devasura war were later born as cruel and evil Kings wherefrom it spoke as follows :
on earth. The burden of such Kings having become Oh unrighteous and cruel Kaiiisa
!
thy prowess is
!
too much
for her, goddess Earth, in the guise of a cow not to be exhibited against women. Thy killer is born
complained about it to Brahma who took her to Siva on earth, and search for him everywhere. (Siva Purana,
who too could not find a solution to the problem posed Chapter 1).
by Bhumidevi. So, all of them accompanied by the 7) Colour of Sri Krfna and Balabhadrardma. Sii Krsna
Devas approached Mahavisnu and prayed for the was dark in colour and Balabhadra white. There is a
redress of their grievance. Mahavisnu sent them back story in the Mahabharata to explain this difference in
comforted by the assurance that he would be born as their colour. The Devas informed Mahavisnu of their
the son of Vasudeva and Devaki to solve the problem. decision to incarnate themselves on earth for the
He also arranged the Devas to be born as Gopas and annihilation of the evil and cruel people. Pleased at
the Apsara women as Gopikas on earth for his their decision Visnu plucked from his head a black
assistance. hair and also a white hair and threw them on the
Devaki conceived for the 7th time, and it was an aspect ground, and he said that the black hair would enter
of Ananta. Mahavisnu instructed Mayadevi thus : Devaki and be born as Krsna while the white one
"You go to the earth and transfer the child in Devaki's would enter Rohini and be born as Balabhadra.
womb to that of Rohini, the second wife of Vasudeva Accordingly Krsna became of the colour of the cloud
and after that, at the very time of my birth you (black) and Balabhadra white in colour. (Adi Parva,
should be born as daughter of YaSoda, wife of Chapter 199, Verse 31).
Nandagopa. You would be worshipped by the world
8) The incidents during the childhood of Sri Krfna.
in names like Ambika, Narayani, Candika,
various
(1) Putandmoksa (Salvation to a
Putana). Putana,
Durga, Bhadrakall etc. The child transferred by you to Raksasi and one of the assassins deputed by Karhsa to
the womb of Rohini will become known as Sankarsana, search out and kill Krsna, went to Krsna's house
Balabhadra and Rama. disguised as a Gopa woman and fed him on her breasts.
Accordingly Mayadevi transferred the child in Devaki's But the child extracted her life also with her breast-
womb to that of Rohini, and it was given out that the milk, and she assumed her original form and fell down
seventh child of Devaki was aborted in the womb. dead.
Devaki conceived for the eighth time, and on Astami Karhsa next deputed the Asura
(2 ) Sakatasura killed.
day in the month of Simha (Leo, August-September) called Sakata to kill Krsna. He approached the
when the Brahma stars were collected on the same day
sleeping Krsna in the form of a cart and raised great
was Sri Krsna born. Mahavisnu incarnated himself sound. Krsna jumped awake and kicked the cart into
as Krsna with the conch, the discus, the club and the
hundreds of pieces. (See under Sakata) .
Aditi, and I incarnated in the form of Vamana carrying Krsna along with him. Ambadi (Gokula)
was chokingly filled with clouds of dust the Gopalas
(Dwarf) as their son. Afterwards Kasyapa and Aditi
:
(6) Krsna drags Ulukhala. (Mortar). Yaoda was once One year passed by thus, and one day Krsna and his
breast-feeding Krsna when she noticed milk flowing companions with their cattle went to the top of
out of the boiling pan, and she put the child on the Govardhana. Brahma was alarmed to find Krsna with
floor and went to attend to the boiling milk. Angry at the artificially created Gopalas and the cattle, and
this Krsna broke the milk-pot by throwing a stone at while he was looking at them the colour of all of them
it. Yasoda then tried to bind the child to the mortar began changing and within minutes they put on the
with a cord. But, any number of cords could not form of Visnu. Moreover, he saw another Brahma and
reach round the child's waist. At this trouble of his Brahmaloka. Upset and alarmed by the whole
mother Krsna decided to oblige her and then the first phenomenon he sang the praises of Mahavisnu at which
cord itself sufficed to bind him round the mortar. But, his illusion was. lifted and he saw the actual Krsna, the
Krsna then began running, dragging the mortar Gopalas and the cattle.
behind him. Dragging the Ulukhala behind him he (11) Dhenukasura killed. There lived in the Kadali forest
passed through a narrow gap between two trees. The on the banks of the Kalindi an Asura called Dhenuka
trees were shaken and at once the trees rose up in the with his followers. The forest was thick with palm trees.
sky as two Devas. The two trees were actually Out of fear of the Asura nobody dared to travel in the
Nalakubara and Manigriva, the sons of Vaisravana, forest. Sri Krsna and Balabhadra having heard the
both of whom had been cursed into the form of trees story about Dhenuka one day went to the forest with
their companions. Balabhadra shook down a lot of the
by Narada. (See under Nalakubara).
(7) Vatsasura killed. Sri Krsna and Balabhadrarama palm fruits the Gopalas loudly cheered him. The
,
were one day, engaged in sports along with the Gopalas Asura rushed forth challenging them when Krsna and
on the banks of river Kalindi. At that time an Asura Balabhadra thrashed him to death.
sent by Karhsa got into the ranks of the cows disguised (12) Suppressed Kaliya. There lived in Kalindi a fierce
as a cow. Sri Krsna understood it; Balabhadra also serpent called Kaliya with his wife and relations. The
trees on the banks of the river were withered and had
pointed out the new 'cow' to him. Then Krsna leisure-
dried up on account of the poisonous breath emitted by
ly went towards the herd of cattle, lifted the new 'cow'
the serpent. One day the Gopalas and their cattle drank
by its legs and tail and dashed it against a peepal
tree. The peepal tree and the one next to it were
water in the Kalindi and fell down dead. Then Krsna
climbed a tree on the banks of the river and jumped
broken, and thus ended the life of Vatsasura.
into its waters and Kaliya rushed forward to him with
(8) Baka killed- On another occasion Karhsa deputed his hoods spread out. Krsna stepped on the hoods and
Bakasura, brother of Putana. to kill Krsna. He assumed danced thereon. Kaliya vomited blood, got exhausted
the form of a bird, and lay there on the road with his
and prayed to Krsna for mercy. At the instance of
fierce mouth wide open. The Gopalas were terror-
Krsna the serpent with its family emigrated to the
stricken. But,Krsna entered the cave-like mouth of the
Ramanaka island. (See under Kaliya) .
bird leaving his companions behind. The Asura
closed his mouth, and the Gopalas cried out in fear (13) Krfna swallows fire. When Krsna came out of the
waters after having suppressed Kaliya and taking with
and agony. But, Sri Krsna stirred round and round
him the gem presented by Kaliya, the Gopalas covered
within Baka's stomach and he was forced to vomit
Krsna with embraces. People of Ambadi came to the
Krsna out. Along with Krsna he vomited blood and
banks of the Kalindi looking out for the children. As the
died. (See under Baka) .
sun had set by now the Yadavas spent the night there,
(9) Killed Aghasura. Aghasura, brother of Baka and when a wild fire enveloped them, and they cried out
Putana, deputed by Karhsa to kill Krsna assumed the to Krsna. Krsna swallowed the entire fire. (Bhagavata,
form of a serpent and with its mouth opened like a 10th Skandha).
cave lay on the road used by the Gopalas. The stench While the Gopalas were playing
(14) Killed Pralamba.
that emanated from its mouth vitiated the atmosphere. once under the shade of a giant peepal tree called
The Gopalas including Krsna and Balabhadra entered Bhandiraka an Asura known as Pralamba joined their
the serpent's mouth, and immediately its entire body
games disguised as a Gopala. Krsna and Balabhadra
shook and it vomited blood. Life escaped through its understood the trick. They made all the others take
broken stomach. The Gopalas came out of and fell
it
the following pledge, i.e. that all of them would beat
down unconscious. But, at the very sight of Krsna they one another, and the vanquished should carry about
regained consciousness. (See under Agha ) .
the victor on his head. The beating began, and the
(10) Brahma placed in ridiculous On another
situation.
Gopa called Srldaman defeated Krsna. Vrsabha defeat-
occasion Brahma saw Mahavisnu, in the assumed form ed Bhadrasena and Balabhadra defeated Pralamba.
of man, playing on the banks of the Kalindi along with According to the pledge Sri Krsna carried on his
Balabhadra and his companions. To test whether God shoulders Srldaman, Bhadrasena carried Vrsabha and
possessed powers in the assumed form of man also Pralamba carried Balabhadra. But, Pralamba rose up
Brahma carried away the cattle of the Gopalas. The to the skies with Balabhadra, who broke the former's
Gopalas were naturally upset at the disappearance of head, and Pralamba fell down dead in his actual form
their cows. After consoling them Krsna searched for as an Asura.
the cattle on the heights of mount Govardhana and in (15) Again in wild fire. The Gopalas were once again
the forest. But, the cattle were to be found nowhere, caught in wild fire at the Munja forest on the banks of
and when Krsna returned to the banks of the Kalindi the Kalindi. They cried out in great fear when Krsna
the Gopalas too had disappeared. Divining the reason went to them and asked them to remain standing with
for the whole affair by his divine powers, Krsna created
eyes closed. They obeyed him, and he swallowed the
both the Gopalas and the cows with his divine powers. fire as though it were nectar. The Gopalas were aston-
KRSNA 423 KRSNA
ished to find themselves safe when they opened their Then Krsna gave it a kick and the snake transformed
eyes. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha). itself in to a Deva called Sudarsana. He was a Vidya-
(16) Blessed the wives of Brahmins. Krsna and his com- dhara, who had been converted into a python by the
panions one day travelled a long way along the banks curse of sage Aiigiras. (See under Sudarsana).
of the Kalindl. They felt very hungry and Krsna advis- Killed Aristdsura. this
(22) ( Vrsdsura) .
During period
ed them to request for food at brahmin houses. They
Aristasura, a follower of Kamsa, came to Ambadi dis-
begged for food the wives of brahmins, and the guised as an ox, and people got terror-stricken at the
wives happy at Krsna's presence there, came with food.
sight of the fierce ox. Krsna engaged himself in a duel
Krsna blessed them. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha). with the ox (Arista) and killed it. (See under Arista) .
took him to the abode of Varuna. People of Ambadi were when Akrura informed Krsna in secret, about all the
distressed at the disappearance of Nandagopa. Krsna evil tactics of Kamsa and requested him to kill the
and Balabhadra dived into the Kalindi and rose up at latter. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha).
Varunalaya. Varuna told them that he had abducted 10) . Rama and Krsna in Mathurapurl.
Nandagopa so that he might see Visnu in person, and washerman
is slain). Rama and
to be pardoned. Meanwhile the people of (1) Rajakavadha (the
requested Krsna duly reached Mathurapurl, and in the evening
Ambadi, who came to Kalindi saw all the worlds reflect-
ed in it. Krsna and Rama returned to Ambadi with they went out for a stroll in the city to view its beauties
when they saw a washerman carrying the washed clothes
their father, Nandagopa. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha)
of Kamsa. They asked him for some of the clothes but
.
(20) Rdsakridd. At the advent of the spring the melody the washerman not only refused them the clothes but
of Krsna's flute rendered the Gopa women love-lorn.
also ridiculed them calling them cattle-breeders. Sri
He went to Vrndavana with his flute, and all the Krsna thrashed the washerman on the spot and distri-
Gopa women, both married and unmarried followed buted the clothes among the children who had gather-
him. Krsna made a futile attempt to send them back
ed there, himself wearing a yellow cloth from the stock
to their houses. But, the love-sick Gopa women did not.
and giving a blue one to Balabhadra.
Suddenly Krsna disappeared from among them, and the
(2) Kancukakdra salvation.
Gopa women mad with love roamed about Vrndava- (tailor) .given Nexl, they
na with Radha calling "O Krsna Krsna !" Suddenly
!
saw a tailor who used to stitch shirts, turbans etc. for
Krsna appeared before them. He entered the waters Kamsa. He presented costly shirts and turbans to Rama
of the Kalindi with them and satisfied them. Sri Krsna and Krsna. Krsna gave him salvation and distributed
thus explained Bhaktiyoga to the world. (Bhagavata, the clothes to the Gopas with him.
10th Skandha). (3) Suddman presents garlands. Then Krsna and Rama
1
(2 ) Python swallowed Nandagopa. One day the Gopas entered the house of Sudaman who gave them each a
performed Mahesvara Puja (worship) in Devi forest, garland. Krsna blessed him.
and they spent the night without going to sleep on the (4) Straightened the hunch-back Trivakrd. Rama and
banks of the Kalindi. A python from somewhere began Krsna continued their walk when they saw a female
swallowing Nandagopa. Though the Gopas tried their hunch-back coming opposite to them with a beautiful
best the snake did not loosen its grip on Nandagopa. vessel filled with aiigaraga (fragrant things like sandal-
KRSNA 424 KRSNA
wood, musk etc. reduced into a paste to be smeared on and Kucela became intimate friends. One day, at the in-
the body) She told them that she was the maid-in-
. stance of the wife of their preceptor, Krsna and Kucela
attendance of Karhsa her name was Trivakra and the
;
went into the forest to gather firewood. In the heavy
arigaraga in the vessel was for the use of Karhsa. She rain and storm that followed they lost their track and
felt pure love for Krsna and gave him the angaraga wandered about in the forest. The next day the precep-
along with the vessel. Rama and Krsna smeared their tor brought them back from the forest. Krsna learned
bodies with it. Krsna stepped on her feet and with his the sixty-four arts and dhanurveda (science of archery)
right hand raised her chin upwards and she was cured at the feet of Sandlpani. (Bharata, Southern Text,
of her hunch. Her love for Krsna knew no bounds and Page 802 ;
Sabha Parva, Chapter 38) .
she begged him to spend the night in her house. Krsna (2) Gurudaksina
(Preceptor's fees) When Rama and
.
promised to oblige her on another occasion and conti- Krsna completed their studies they asked the precep-
nued the walk. tor as to what he wanted by way of tuition fee, and
(5) Krsna broke the bow. Rama and Krsna continued the guru wanted to get back his son, who was, years
their walk into the Yajna hall of Karhsa. A big bow ago, drowned in Prabhasa tlrtha. Accordingly
was seen and Krsna broke it with his left hand
there, Rama and Krsna went in their chariot to at theVaruna
before the guards could approach him. With the broken sea coast. Varuna told them that it was the Asura
pieces of the bow he killed the soldiers sent by Karhsa to called Pancajana, who lived in the sea in the form of
take him and Rama into custody. They again continued a conch, who had killed their preceptor's son. Sri
their walk. The sun set, and though they lay down to Krsna entered the sea and killed the Asura. But, the
sleep thoughts about the underhand dealings of Karhsa child was not to be seen inside the conch. Blowing
kept them sleepless. this conch, which in later years became famous as
(6) Krsna killed the fierce elephant. That night Krsna Pancajanya, Rama and Krsna went to Yama's abode,
dreamt many an inauspicious dream. The next morning who on being told about the object of their visit return-
Karhsa set up an arena for pugilistic combats. Yadava ed the child to Rama and Krsna. They presented the
chiefs like Nandagopa, many other important persons in child to their preceptor. He blessed them and they
Mathura and Karhsa took their seats on the dais. Famous returned to Mathurapuri.
pugilists like Canura, Mustika, Kuta, Sala and Kosala 1 2
) Upto Krsna' s return to Dvaraka.
also entered the scene. Kamsa had stationed a fierce (
1
) Message through Uddhava. Rama and Krsna who
elephant called Kuvalayapida on the way Rama and returned to Mathurapuri after their studies at Sandi-
Krsna had to take to enter the arena for pugilistic pani's Asrama thought about the people of Ambadi.
competition. The mahout prompted the elephant to It was a long time since they had heard about them. So
catch hold of Krsna, and in the fight that ensued with Krsna sent a massage to Ambadi by his minis-
the animal Krsna killed it and gave one tusk of it to ter Uddhava. After duly delivering the message
Rama. Krsna beat the mahout also to death with the Uddhava stayed at Ambadi four or five months after
tusk. After this they entered the scene. which he returned to Mathura with the presents given
(7) Karhsa killed. The pugilistic competition started. to Krsna by Nandagopa, Yagoda and the other Gopas.
Canura fought against Krsna and Mustika against (2) Visited Trivakra. Krsna had promised to visit the
Rama and both Canura and Mustika were killed. Rama house of Trivakra at the time he cured her of her
and Krsna killed three other famous pugilists too, who hunch, and she had been for long awaiting Krsna. But
confronted them following the death of Canura and only now he got the opportunity to fulfil his promise.
Mustika. Thereupon the remaining pugilists ran away He accepted her hospitality at her house and thus
into the forest. Karhsa, burning with anger, jumped up ended her grief.
from his seat roaring, "Annihilate the Gopalas, kill (3) Interested himself in the Pandavas. By this time
Nandgopa, drown Ugrasena, the friend of our enemies, Pandu had died. The Pandavas and Kunti, sister of
in the Kalindl" etc. Responding to Karhsa's war-cry Krsna's father were living at Hastinapura along with
Sri Krsna jumped into the former's sofa and pushed him the Kauravas. They were victims to all sorts of miseries.
down. Krsna jumped on to the back of Kamsa and Hearing about the sad plight of the Pandavas Krsna
killed him. Balabhadra killed with his iron club the deputed Akrura to Hastinapura to enquire about them.
eight brothers of Karhsa who rushed against Krsna. After Kuntldevi, with tears in her eyes, told Akrura about
consoling the women, who lamented over the death of the injustice being done against the Pandavas by the
Karhsa and others Sri Krsna got their dead bodies duly Kauravas and the continuous attempts being made to kill
cremated. Rama and Krsna released Vasudeva and Bhima. Akrura visited important persons like Vidura,
Devaki and Ugrasena immediately from prison. Ugra- Dhrtarastra etc. Akrura exhorted Dhrtarastra, who had
sena was crowned King of Mathura. succeeded Pandu as King, to mete out equal justice to
(8) Farewell to the people of Ambadi. Rama and Krsna Kauravas as well as to the Pandavas. Akrura returned
saluted Nandagopa and Yasoda, and entrusted to them to Mathura and gave a report to Krsna about his visit
their clothes and bows for safe custody. Then saying to thePandavas.
that they would return after strengthening the Yadu (4) The jarasandha war. Asti and Prapti, wives of
dynasty, Rama and Krsna sent their parents and the Karhsa complained about the killing of their husband
other Gopas home. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha). by Krsna to their father Jarasandha, King of Magadha.
1 1 Education of Rama and Krsna.
) Jarasandha, aided by such famous Kings as Salva,
(1 ) After bidding adieu to the people of Ambadi, Vasu- Kaliiiga, Cediraja, Dantavaktra and Sisupala besieged
deva, on the advice of sage Garga sent Rama and Mathurapuri with a big army. Yadava leaders like
Krsna for their studies to the As rama of the great sage Krsna, Balabhadra, Uddhava, Akrura and Krtavarman
Sandlpani. During their education at the Asrama Krsna met the enemies in battle in which many kings got
KRS1VA 425 KRStfA I
killed. Balabhadra met Jarasandha in duel, but let him 14) Sri Krfna escaped from fire. Balabhadra and Krsna
off on the request of Krsna. But, Jarasandha, supported started for Dvaraka carrying all the riches of Kalaya-
by Banasura and others besieged Mathura again and vana. They met Jarasandha on their way and took to
again. When Balabhadra attempted to kill Jarasandha, their heels. Jarasandha followed them to the heights of
a celestial voice declared that it was not possible for Mount Pravarsana where they disappeared. Jarasandha
the former to kill Jarasandha, and the war, therefore, set fire to the four sides of the mountain when Rama
ended for the time being. and Krsna escaped secretly from the fire to Dvaraka.
(5) Krftia and Balabhadra meet Parasurama. The conti- Jarasandha returned to Magadha believing that both
nuous war with Jarasandha reduced the financial re- his antagonists were burned to death. (Bhagavata, 10th
sources of the Yadavas and to replenish their treasury Skandha) .
Sri Krsna and Balabhadra started for mount Gomantaka 15) Wedding of Rama and Krsna.
the repository of gems and on their way they saw (1) Balabhadra-Revatl. Balabhadra married Revati,
Parasurama engaged in penance under a peepal tree. daughter of King Anarta of Kusasthali, former name
Parasurama told them that there was a kingdom at the of Dvaraka.
foot of the Gomantaka called Karavira ruled
by King (2) Krsna-RukminL King Bhlsmaka of Vidarbha had
Srgalavasudeva and advised them to kill him and collect five sons the eldest of whom was Rukmi. His sixth
enough money and gems. Krsna and Balabhadra did child was a daughter and she was named Rukminl.
so and reached Pravarsanagiri with money and gems so Stories about Krsna kindled in Rukmim love for him.
collected. There Garuda brought back to Krsna his Rukmi, who hated Krsna, wanted to give his sister in
crown which had been, sometime back, stolen away by marriage to Sisupala. Rukminl sent through a brahmin
Banasura. Krsna and Rama returned to Mathurapuri. a message about the affair to Dvaraka. On the day of
Since Srgalavasudeva had been killed by Krsna and Rukmini's Svayamvara Rama and Krsna also went to
Rama, Jarasandha attacked Mathurapuri again, for the Kundinapuri, capital of Vidarbha. and Krsna. in the
eighteenth time. Though during all the wars Jarasandha presence of all Kings, carried Rukminl away in his
was defeated, by that time the Yadava power had been chariot. The Kings who, under the leadership of
weakened much and so Krsna ultimately decided to Rukmi, attacked Krsna were routed. A son called
leave Mathura and found another kingdom somewhere Pradyumna was born to Krsna by Rukminl. (See under
else. Krsna had two reasons to come to this decision. Pradyumna) .
war. Indra asked him to choose his reward for this The happy news that the Panda-
(5) Sri Kr$na-Kdlindi.
service and Mucukunda wanted to be shown a
place vas had escaped from the lac palace and were living at
for him to sleep as he had not
slept for a long time. Khandavaprastha took some time to reach Krsna, who
Indra, accordingly showed him a cave on earth and had been pained to know that they were burned to
told him that he who disturbed him in
sleep would be death in the palace. As soon as Krsna knew that the
reduced to ashes by his very look. Mucukunda went to Pandavas were safe at Khandavaprastha he went to
sleep in that cave. them along with Yadava chiefs like Satyaki and others.
Kalayavana approached Krsna to kill him and the It was then that the fire-god Vahni, requested Arjuna
latter, pretending to be in fear of Kalayavana, ran for the Khandava forest for his food and Arjuna con-
before him. Kalayavana followed Krsna, who entered sented to it. It was Krsna who drove Arjuna's chariot
the cave where Mucukunda was
sleeping and he followed in his fight with Indra at the burning of the forest by
Krsna into the cave also. Kalayavana, mistaking Agnideva. (See under Khandavadaha) Arjuna saved .
Mucukunda for Krsna, kicked him violently whereupon Maya from the Khandava fire and Maya, in return for
he jumped up from sleep and looked at Kalayavana, the kindness, built a palace for the Pandavas at Indra-
who was reduced to ashes. Then Krsna appeared before prastha. Krsna also lived there for a few days. One
Mucukunda. who praised the former. On the advice of day while Krsna was strolling on the banks of the
Krsna he performed penance at Badarikas rama and Kalindi in the company of Arjuna they saw a woman,
attained salvation. (Bhagavata, 10th who told them that her name was Kalindi and that
Skandha).
KRSISA I 426 KRSISA I
she would marry none but Krsna. Krsna then took her Krsna to alleviate the grief caused to Satyabhama by
as his wife. (See under Kalindi). After staying at the return by Krsna of Syamantaka to Satrajit.
Indraprastha for three or four months Krsna returned (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha).
to Dvaraka with Kalindi. (Bhagavata, 10th Skandha). 22 ) Krsna's sons and grand-children. Ten sons were born
(6) Sri Krsna-Mitravindd. The King of AvantI had to each of the eight chief wives from Rukminl to
married Rajadhidevi, sister of Krsna's father and they Laksmana of Krsna. Names of the chief among
had two sons called Vinda and Anuvinda and a those eighty sons are given below.
daughter Mitravinda, who had fixed in her mind (1) Of Rukminl Pradyumna, Carudeksna, Sudeksna,
Krsna as her husband. Krsna, who was present at her Carudeha, Sucaru, Carugupta, Bhadiacaru, Caru-
Svayarhvara carried her off on his chariot to Dvaraka. candra, Aticaru, Ca.ru.
7 ) Sri Krsna-Satyd. King Nagnajit of Kosala, father of
1
(2) Of JambavatI Samba, Sumitra.
Satya, had seven oxen like elephants in strength. The (3) Of Satyabhama Bhanu, Subhanu, Svarbhanu,
King proclaimed daughter would be married
that his Prabhanu, Bhanuman, Candrabhanu, Brhadbhanu,
to the person who would down the oxen. Various
tie Havirbhanu, Sribhanu, Pratibhanu.
Kings attempted the task but failed. Ultimately (4) Of Kalindi Sruta.
Arjuna and Krsna went to Kosala and Krsna assumed (5) Of Mitravinda Vrkaharhsa.
seven forms and tied down the oxen with cords. The (6) Of Satya Bhanucandra.
seven oxen at once fell down. Krsna took Satya for his (7) Of Bhadra Sarigramacitta.
wife. (8) Of Laksmana Praghosa.
(8) Sri Krsna-Kaikeyi (Bhadra). Krsna married A daughter called Rukmavati was born to Rukmi,
Kaikeyi, the daughter of Srutakirti, sister of Krsna's brother of Rukminl. Pradyumna married Rukmavati
father. and Aniruddha was their son. It was this Aniruddha,
(9) Sri Krsna-Laksmana. Laksmana, daughter of King who wedded Usa. Carumati, the daughter of Rukminl
of Madra chose Krsna at her Svayarhvara and she was married by the son of Krtavarman. (Bhagavata,
became Krsna's wife. 10th Skandha).
(10) Krsna-i6QOO women. Brahma had given the boon 23) Krsna tested Rukmini While Sri Krsna was once
to the 16000 daughters of Narakasura in their previous having a chat with Rukmini he wanted to test her
birth that Visnu would marry them in their next birth. love for him. So he told her that he was penniless and
While even the Devas were suffering on account of helpless and was hiding from his enemies there at
Narakasura, Sri Krsna along with Satyabhama mounted Dvaraka and that he would only be really glad if she
Garuda, went to Pragjyotisa, the kingdom of married some other powerful King. Krsna had not
Narakasura, defeated him in fight and released his completed his sentences when Rukmini fell down
16000 daughters from captivity. He returned with unconscious. Krsna then consoled her. (Bhagavata,
them to Dvaraka, assumed the guise of 16000 men and 10th Skandha)."
married those 16000 girls. He built a palace for each 24) Krsna fought with Bana. See under Bana
of his 16000 wives. (For details see under Narakasura) .
25) Krsna killed Paundraka. See under Paundraka.
16) Krsna's 16008 wives. The
eight women, i.e. 26 ) Nrga given salvation. See under Nrga.
Rukmini, Jambavati, Satyabhama, Kalindi, Mitra- 27) Srikrsna blessed Pdncdli at the time of her Svayarhvara
vinda, Satya, Kaikeyi (Bhadra) Laksmana and the 16000 (See under Pancali) .
daughters of Narakasura constituted Krsna's harem. 28) Subhadra given in marriage to Arjuna. Arjuna had
(The 16000 daughters of Narakasura are not mentioned to go on a pilgrimage for one year as atonement for
by name in the Puranas). (See under Sudatta and having got into the palace where Yudhisthira was
Ketuman IV.) spending the days with Pancall. It was during this
17) Gave Salvation to Ghantdkarnas. Ghanta and period of his pilgrimage that Arjuna married Subhadra,
Kama were two demon brothers. Krsna met them at who vi as the younger sister of Krsna due to whose
Badarikasrama where he had gone after his marriage cleverness alone Arjuna got her as his wife. (For
with Rukmini, to perform penance to Siva for a child. details see under Subhadra) .
Krsna offered salvation to the two demon brothers, 29) Krsna got the dub called Kaumodaki and he saved Maya.
Ghanta and Kama, See under Khandavadaha.
18) Fight between Krsna and Arjuna. (See under Galava) .
Stated that Parijata was thus brought and planted by (5) He gave a let of money as donation at the
KRSl^A I 427 KRSNA I
Rajasiiya Yajna of Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter once exhibited his ViSva-rupa (Cosmic form). The
33, Verse 13). Kauravas were frightened to witness Brahma on
(6) He was presented with ear-rings by Bhumidevi Krsna's forehead, Siva on his chest, Aditya-Vasu-
(goddess Earth) (Sabha Parva, Page
.
808, Southern Rudras in his mouth etc. Sri Krsna granted the blind
text) . Dhrtarasfra divine eyes to see this Visvarupa and he
(7) He killed
Sihupala. (See under Sisupala). sang the praise of Krsna. Krsna returned to the
(8) He made
the clothes of Pancali unending when Pandavas after advising Kama to fight on the Pandava
Duryodhana tried to strip her naked in the royal side in the impending war. (Udyoga Parva).
assembly. (See under Pancali) .
36) Krsna in the great war. The parts Krsna played
(9) He fought Salva and Saubha. (See under Salva during the Kuru-Pandava war are briefly given below.
and Saubha). (1) The Kaurava and the Pandava armies were gather-
(10) He once took Subhadra and Arjuna to Dvaraka. ed at Kuruksetra in full battle array and Arjuna, at
(Vana Parva, Chapter 22; Verses 47, 48). the sight of the thousands of relations in the opposite
(11) He consoled the Pandavas at the Kamyaka camp, became a prey to a great delusion and sat down.
forest. (Vana Parva, Chapter 183, Verse 16). Krsna then enthused him to fight by giving him
(12) He
ate the bit of a leaf of greens from Pancali's advice, which came later to be known as the great
vessel and was pleased with her. (See under Pancali) . Gita. The Gita contains the Sankhya, Yoga, the
(13) Attended the wedding of Abhimanyu at and the unwise, des-
characteristics of the wise people
Upaplavyanagara and gave a lot of money toJDharma- cription about yajnas, greatness of knowledge, chara-
putra. (Virata Parva, Chapter 72, Verse 24). cteristics of Sarhkhya and niskamakarma, yogins,
(14) He
sent to the court of King Virata a messenger, jnanayoga etc. (Bhisma Parva, Chapters 26-42).
who to him the corrupt ways of the
explained (2) At the commencement of the battle, Krsna blew
Kauravas and the righteousness of the Pandavas. aloud his conch Pancajanya. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 1 ) .
25, Verse 15) .
31) Tested by Narada. Narada wanted to know how (3) Krsna rushed forward with his Cakrayudha to
Krsna managed to satisfy all his 16008 wives. For kill Bhisma, who then praised Krsna. (Bhisma Parva,
this purpose he visited their houses and Narada was Chapter 65) .
wonder-struck to find Krsna engaged in conversation (4) He prompted Arjuna to kill Bhisma. (Bhisma Parva,
with his wives in all the houses he visited. (Bhagavata, Chapter 106, Verse 33).
10th Skandha). (5) He received on his chest the Vaisnavastra shot by
32 ) Krsna blessed Kucela. See under Kucela. Bhagadatta against Arjuna. (Drona Parva, Chapter 29,
33) The story of Santdnagopdlam. See para 7 (d) under Verse 13).
Arjuna. (6) Consoled Arjuna, who was lamenting over the
34) Krsna feigned sleep. The Kauravas refused to part death of Abhimanyu. (Drona Parva, Chapter 72) .
with half the kingdom to the Pandavas, who had (7) Consoled Subhadra, who was sunk in sorrow at
returned from their exile in the forest. Both the the loss of her son. (Drona Parva, Chapter 77) .
sides began preparations for war. Duryodhana went to (8) Consoled the crying Pancali and Uttara. (Drona
Dvaraka to invite Krsna to his side, and seeing him Parva, Chapter 78) .
at a distance Krsna feigned sleep and lay down there. (9) Took Arjuna in a dream to Siva and got Siva's
Duryodhana occupied a stool at the head of Krsna's blessing for him. (Drona Parva, Chapter 80).
bed. Arjuna, who also came to seek his help, stood (10) He looked after the horses in the battle-field.
with folded hands at Krsna's feet. It was Arjuna Drona Parva, Chapter 100).
whom Krsna first saw on waking up. But Duryodhana (11) Prompted Arjuna to kill Duryodhana. (Drona
told him was he who had come first. Krsna
that it
Parva, Chapter 102).
was in a fix, and he had to promise to help both the (12) Krsna created illusory darkness and prompted
sides. He promised his entire army to one side and his Arjuna to kill Jayadratha. (See under Jayadratha) .
personal help, himself without any weapons with him, (13) He lifted the darkness after Jayadratha was killed
to the other side, and Arjuna was asked to make his by Arjuna. (Drona Parva, Chapter 146).
choice first as he was younger than Duryodhana. Kama
(14) As it was not proper for Arjuna and to be
Arjuna chose Krsna without arms and Duryodhana fighting with each other at mid-night he deputed
with his infantry. Krsna agreed to act as Arjuna's
Ghatotkaca to fight Karna. (Drona Parva, Chapter
charioteer.
173).
35) As messenger of peace in Kaurava assembly. Dharma- He consoled Dharmaputra, who was grieving
(15)
putra requested Krsna to find out means to avoid war over the death of Ghatotkaca. (Drona Parva, Chapter
somehow or other and Krsna sent a message to Dhrtara-
153).
stra through Sanjaya but nothing came out of it. Ultima-
(16) He prompted Arjuna to kill Karna. (Karna
tely Krsna himself decided to visit the Kauravas for which
Parva, Chapter 60) .
(19) Arjuna got ready to commit suicide: Krsna loudly. She realised that Krsna was the cause of all
dissuaded him from the attempt. (Kama Parva, the destruction and cursed him as follows :
Chapter 70) . "If have gained any powers by my loyal and devout
I
(20) Krsna again prompted Arjuna to kill Kama. service to my husband, O Krsna I curse you on the
!
(21) In the fierce battle that ensued between Arjuna strength of that power. Since you forsook relations like
and Kama, Krsna pressed down the platform of the the Kauravas and the Pandavas who quarrelled with
chariot when the latter shot the nagastra (the serpent each other, you also will have to witness the killing of
arrow) The arrow flew off with Arjuna's
. crown. relations. Thirtysix years from today your relations,
(Kama Parva, Chapter 90) . ministers and sons will be killed, and you too will be
(22) Arjuna killed Kama after which Krsna prompted killed by a hunter in the forest. Your women-folk also
Dharmaputra to kill Salya. (Salya Parva, Chapter 7) . will cry as we women cry now." (Stri Parva, Chapter
(31) Consoled GangadevI who grieved over the death began appearing. Agents of Kala visited house after
of Bhisma. (Anugasana Parva, Chapter 168). house. Rats multiplied in numbers everywhere in the
( 32)
He once again revealed the doctrine of the Gita land, and they began gnawing the nails and hairs of
in the form of discussions between Siddhamaharsis and people enjoying sleep. Sheep howled like jackals. Asses
were born from cows and cats from mules. Dogs coha-
Kasyapa. (As"ramavasika Parva, Chapter 16).
bited with rats. The Cakrayudha (Discus) given to
(33) After the great war was over he went to Dvaraka
with Subhadra and Satyaki with the consent of Yudhis- Krsna by Agnideva at the time of Khandavadaha dis-
thira. (Asramavasika Parva, Chapter 57, Verses 54-58) . appeared into the sky while the Yadavas were looking
on. Thus symptoms of an all-round destruction were
37) Sri Krsna again at Dvaraka. When Krsna returned to
witnessed.
Dvaraka, Sage Uttanka visited him. The sage was told Sri
(4) Destruction of the Yadavas. Krsna, Balabhadra,
details about the Kauravas and the Pandavas by Krsna.
Uddhava and others were about to go on a pilgrimage,
He detailed to the sage spiritual principles too and
and the Yadus, the Vrsnis and the Andhakas began
showed him his Visvarupa (Cosmic form) Krsna parti- .
in a more
glittering condition than of old. Their welfare Padmanabho Madhuripur Vasudevas Trivikramah//
and happiness were also increased. Krsna died hit by Devakmandanassaurih Srlpatih Purusottamah/
the arrow of the hunter on the lower surface of his feet Vanamall Balidhvarhsl Kamsaratir Adhoksajah//
as he had not smeared that part of the body with the Visvambharah Kaitabhajid Vidhus Srivatsalan-
pudding left over by Durvasas. (Anusasana Parva, chanah.
Chapter 159), (There is another story to the effect that (Visnu, Narayana, Krsna, Vaikuntha, VistaraSravas,
Jara, the hunter, was Bali (whom Sri Rama had killed) Damodara, Hrslkesa, Kesava, Madhava, Svabhu,
reborn, and he killed Krsna in retaliation for his former Daityari, Pundarikaksa, Govinda, Garudadhvaja,
death). Pltambara, Acyuta, Sarngl, Visvaksena, Janardana,
(7) After Kruno's death. Upendra, Indravaraja. Cakrapani, Caturbhuja, Padma-
nabha, Madhuripu, Vasudeva, Trivikrama, Devaki-
(i) Arjuna came to Dvaraka and cremated Krsna.
nandana, Sauri.Srlpati, Purusottama, Vanamall, Balidh-
(Mausala Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 31) .
yana in the divine sphere. ( Svargarohana Parva, KRSl^A. I. Another name for Pancali. under
(See
Chapter 5, Verses 24-26) .
Pancall .
(Hi) Anointed queens like Rukmini and JambavatI KRSNA II. Ariver in South India.
and some other wives of Krsna entered his funeral KRSI^A III. Another name for Durga. (Virata
Parva,
pyre and ended their lives. (Mausala Parva, Chapter Chapter Verse 9).
6,
7, Verses 73 and 74). KRSNA IV. A female attendant of Skandadeva. (Salya
(iv) While Arjuna was leading the remaining wives of Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 22) .
Krsna away from Dvaraka forest-dwellers attacked KRSNADEVA. See under Dinanatha.
them on the way. But the women, to escape from their KRSNADVAIPAYANA. Vyasa. (See under Vyasa) .
KRSNAKARNl 430 KRTAVARMA
A female attendant of Skandadeva. ashamed at the sight and questioned Parvati about
felt
her action whereupon she cursed and turned Citraketu
(Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 24).
KRSNAKESA. A warrior of Skandadeva. (Salya Parva, into an Asura. The well known Vrtrasura was Citra-
Chapter 45, Verse 61) . ketu thus reborn. Krtadyuti ended her life following the
KRS1VANANDA. A Sanskrit poet who ed in the 13th li curse upon her husband. (Bhagavata, 6th Skandha).
century A.D. He is the author of Sahrdayananda Kavya KRTAGHNA. See under Dhanasarman.
which contains fifteen cantos. The theme is the story KRTAGNI. A King of the Yadu dynasty. Descended
ofNala. from Yadu thus: Sahasrajit Satajit Hehaya Dharma
KRSIVANJANA. Capital city of Nirrti, one of the eight Kunti Bhadrasena Dhanaka Krtagni. Krtagni
Guardians of the quarters. (Devi Bhiigavata, 8th was the brother of Krtavirya, who was the father of
Skandha) . Kartavlryarjuna. Krtavirya had three brothers called
KRSNANUBHAUTIKA. A great sage. He visited Krtagni, Krtavarman and Krtaujas. (Krtayus).
Bhisma on his bed of arrows. (Sand Parva, Chapter KRTAKSAI^A. A King of Videha, who was a member
47, Verse 11). in Yudhisthira 's court. He made a present of fourteen
KRSIVAPARVATA. A mountain in Kusa island very thousand horses to Yudhisthira. (Sabha Parva) .
dear to Visnu. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 4) . KRTAMALA. The river in which Mahavisnu first
said that this sage grasped the whole of Ayurveda and KRTAPARVA. A King of the Yadava dynasty. (See
practised it by the strength of his penance (M.B. Santi
under Yadava VarhiSa) .
KRSlVAVEIill. A sacred river in South India. bath A KRTASRAMA. A great sage, who had distinguished
in the Devakunda in this river (Jatismarahrada) will himself in the court of Yudhisthira. He lived a life of
kindle in one remembrance about previous life. (Sabha renunciation as a Vanaprastha and attained heaven.
Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 20). Agni is supposed to origi- (Santi Parva, Chapter 244, Verse 18) .
nate from this hrada. (Vana Parva, Chapter 222, KRTASVA. A great sage of ancient days. He was the
Verse 26). son-in-law of Daksaprajapati. Daksa had sixty daugh-
KRTA. I. A King of Janaka's dynasty. He was the son ters by his wife Virani, thirteen of whom were wedded
ofVijayaand father of Sunaka. (Bhagavata, 9th to Kasyapa, ten to Dharma, twenty-seven to Candra,
Skandha) Krta had seven beautiful daughters who,
. two to Bhrgu, four to Aristanemi, two to Krtasva and
because of a sense of non-attachment and renunciation, two to Angiras. (Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha) .
forsook their father's home for the cremation ground KRTAUJAS. See under KRTAGNI.
even while they were mere children. They lay down KRTAVAK. A great sage, who was an admirer of
there declaring that they had left their bodies as food Yudhisthira. (Vana Parva, Chapter 26, Verse 24) .
for the birds; and birds and wild beasts ate up their KRTAVARMA. A King of the Vrsni dynasty. In the
beautiful bodies. Because of this life of renunciation, previous generation of Vrsni also a Krtavarman is notic-
they attained salvation. (Kathasaritsagara, Madana- ed. The genealogy of both is given below.
manjukalambaka, Tarahga 2) .
1) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu thus Brahma
:
KRTA II. A VisVadeva (Universal Deva). (Anusasana Atri Candra Budha Pururavas Ayus Nahusa
Parva, Chapter 91, Verse 31 ). Yayati Yadu Sahasrajit Satajit Hehaya Dharma
KRTACETAS. A great sage of ancient days. (Vana Kunti Sadajit Dhanaka.
Parva, Chapter 26, Verse 22). Dhanaka had four sons called Krtavirya, Krtagni, Krta-
KRTADHVAJA. A
King of Janaka's dynasty. (See varman and Krtaujas, and one of the four was the first
under Varhsavali) . Krtavarman.
KRTADYUTI. Queen of King Citraketu. Though the The dynasty continues again from Krtavirya Krtavirya-
King had many wives he had no children. He pleased Kartavlryarjuna Madhu Vrsni Yudhajit
Angiras by means of his austerities and due to thelatter's Sini Satyaka Satyaki (Yuyudhana) Jaya Kani
blessing Krtadyuti delivered a son. But, her co-wives Anamitra Prsni Citraratha Viduratha Sura Sini
poisoned the child to death at which both Citraketu Bhoja Hrdika Krtavarman.
and Krtadyuti fell down unconscious. Though Angiras Hrdika had four sons, viz. Devavaha, Gadadhanvan,
and Narada appeared on the scene and tried their best Krtavarman and Sura. And, Sura begot of his wife,
to console the King and the queen they refused to be Marisa ten sons, i.e. Vasu, Devabhaga, Devasravas,
comforted. Then Angiras returned to them the soul of Anaka, Srnjaya, Kakanlka, Syamaka, Vatsa, Kavuka
the dead child. The soul saluted them and spoke as and Vasudeva. Sri Krsna was the son of Vasudeva. The
follows: "Oh elders, during various births I had been Krtavarman referred to below was the brother of Krs-
the son of various parents. And, you please point out na's grand-father.
to me the particular parent as whose son I am to live 2) Krtavarman and Syamantaka. King Satrajit had in his
just now." Nobody had any answer to this question, possession the famous gem called Syamantaka. The
and the child went on its own way. King's brother Prasena, went for hunting with this jewel
Afterwards Citraketu and Krtadyuti went round the on him. A lion killed Prasena, and Jamba van killed
earth as great devotees of the Almighty, and during the lion and got the gem. A scandal was circulated to the
this perambulation Citraketu came to the presence of effect that Sri Krsna had stolen the gem. But, Krsna
Siva on whose thigh Parvati was sitting then. Citraketu got back the gem from Jambavan and handed it over
KRTAVARMA 431 KRTEYU
who in turn, gave his daughter Satyabhama
to Satrajit, (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 113, and Drona Parva, Chapter
in marriage to Krsna. Though Satrajit wanted to give 14).'
the gem Syamantaka to Krsna as dowry, the latter (xviii)He attacked Abhimanyu and killed his horse.
did not accept it. (Drona Parva, Chapter 48, Verse 32).
Akrura and Krtavarman were bosom friends, and they (xix) He fell down and swooned in the fight with
incited another Yadava King Satadhanva, to grab the Arjuna. (Drona Parva, Chapter 92 Verses 16-33).
Syamantaka. Satadhanva killed Satrajit and took poss- (xx) Afterwards he fought with Yudhamanyu and
ession of the gem. Hearing about this murder Sri Uttamaujas. (Drona Parva, Chapter 92, Verse 27) .
Krsna and Balabhadrarama set out to kill Satadhanva, (xxi) On another occasion he defeated Sikhandi and
who, in great alarm, started for north after entrusting Bhima. (Drona Parva, Chapter 114, Verse 59).
the gem to Akrura and Krtavarman. His horse died (xxii) He defeated Yudhisthira also in fighting. (Drona
at Mithilapun and he began running. Balabhadra and Parva, Chapter 165, Verse 24).
Krsna ran after him, caught and killed him. But, they (xxiii) Following the death of Drona he ran away
did not get the Syamantaka. from the battle-field. (Drona Parva, Chapter 139,
Now Akrura and Krtavarman began their penance at Verse 13).
KasT. Seven years passed thus when famine broke out (xxiv) He fainted on the field in fight with Dhrstadyu-
in Dvaraka. When once upon a time famine stalked mna. (Karna Parva, Chapter 54). When he regained
KasI the king had brought Svaphalka, father of Akrura, consciousness he met Duryodhana at Dvaipayanasaras
over to Kail, and there was no more famine in the and induced him to fight. Dharmaputra followed him
country. Therefore, when famine broke out in Dvaraka with the army.
the Yadavas thought the presence of Svaphalka's son, (xxv) He also was present with Asvatthama when he
Akrura would dispel the famine. Accordingly Akrura attacked those who were asleep during night. (Sauptika
was recalled to Dvaraka, and along with him returned Parva, Chapter 5, Verse 38) .
Krtavarman also. Sri Krsna and Balabhadra decided (xxvi) It was he, who set fire to the camp of the
that Syamantaka should be kept by Akrura himself. Pandavas. (Sauptika Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 109).
3) Other information relating to Krtavarman. (xxvii) He returned home after informing Dhrtarastra
(i) He was a very famous archer. (Adi Parva, Chapter about the death of Duryodhana, on the termination of
67, Verse 81). the great war. (Strl Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 21).
(ii)
He was a great devotee of Sri Krsna. (M.B. Adi (xxviii) He was present along with Krsna at the Asva-
Parva, Chapter 63, Verse 105) . medha yajna conducted by Yudhisthira. (Asvamedhika
(iii) He was present at the Svayarhvara of Panca.li. Parva, Chapter 66, Verse 3) .
(Adi Parva, Chapter 185, Verse 18). (xxix) He was killed in the club-fight by the Yadavas.
(iv) He had once gone to Khandavaprastha with pre- Mausala Parva, Chapter 3, Verse 28).
sents to Subhadra. (Adi Parva, Chapter 220, Verse (
xxx ) After death he joined the Marudgana and secured
31). eternal fame. ( Svargarohana Parva, Chapter 5 3 Verse
(v) He was a member in the court of Yudhisthira. 13.)
(Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 30) .
4) Synonyms for Krtavarman. AnartavasI, Bhoja, Bhoja-
(vi) He was one of the seven Maharathas in the Vrsni raja, Hardikya, Hrdikatmaja, Madhava, Satvata,
dynasty, the other six being Sri Krsna, Carudeksna, Varsneya, Vrsnisirhha.
Saineya, Cakradeva, Pradyumna and Samba. KRTAVEGA. A very holy Rajarsi. He was a member
(vii) He was present at the marriage of Abhimanyu at in the court of Yama. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 89).
Upaplavyanagara (Virata Parva, Chapter 72, Verse 21). KRTAVlRYA I. Father of the famous Kartaviryarjuna
(viii) The Pandavas invited him to war against the (For genealogy see under Kartavlrya) He got a Soma
.
Kauravas. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 12). Yajna conducted by the sages of the family of Bhrgu and
(ix) As demanded by Duryodhana he contributed an gave away a lot of wealth to people of Bhrgu's family
AksauhinI (a particular division of army) to the (Adi Parva. Chapter 177, Verse 18). Krtavlrya was a
Kaurava forces (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 32). member of the court of Yamaraja. (Sabha Parva,
(x) As ordered by Satyaki he stationed himself at the Chapter 8, Verse 9).
city gates to protect Krsna. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter KRTAVlRYA II. Father-in-law of king Aharhyati of the
130, Verse 10). solar dynasty. He had a daughter called Bhanumatl.
(xi) On the first day of the great war he fought a duel (Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 15) .
with Satyaki. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 12). KRTAYUGA. There are four Yugas (Eras) called Krta,
(xii) Abhimanyu wounded him. (Bhlsma Parva, Treta, Dvapara and Kali yugas. (For the set up etc.
Chapter 47, Verse 10). of the Yugas see under Manvantara).
(xiii) He was posted at the head of the Krauncaruna- In the first Yuga, i.e. Krta yuga, people will be quite
vyuha set up by Bhlsma. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 75, righteous. As the Yugas change righteousness will fade
Verse 17). out in increasing measure till the world will be filled
(xiv) Bhlmasena defeated him. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter with unrighteousness and evil by the time it is Kaliyuga.
82, Verse 61). When Kaliyuga is completed Mahavisnu will incarnate
(xv) Satyaki wounded him. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter himself as Kalki and wipe out unrighteousness and estab-
104, Verse 16). lish Krtayuga once again.
(xvi) A duel
was fought between him and Dhrsta- KRTAYUS (KRTAUJAS). A brother of Krtagni. (See
dyumna. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 110, Verse 9). under KRTAGNI).
(xvii) He fought with Arjuna, Bhlma and Satyaki. KRTEYU. A king born in the Anga dynasty.
KRTII 432 KRTYA
KRTI I. A Sage who belonged to the order of the disciple should be given to the Pandavas or not. Sakuni and
of Vedavyasa. Jaimini was the disciple of Vyasa, and others advised Duryodhana to give it, but the latter
Sumantu the son of Jaimini. Sumantu had a son called remained adamant against it. Dhrtarastra decided to
Sutva, and Sukarma was the son of the latter. He end his life andpurpose spread darbha grass on
for the
had two disciples called Hiranyanabha alias Kausalya earth and The Asuras heard about these
sat thereon.
and Pauspiiiji. Krti was a disciple of Hiranyanabha, developments and created a Krtya by mantras. The
and he composed twentyfour Samhitas for the Sama- Krtya took Duryodhana to Patala where the Asuras
veda and taught them to his disciples. (Visnu Purana, advised him against any compromise with the Panda-
Part 3, ChapterS). vas. On
the other hand they wanted him to intensify
KRTI II. A saintly King who flourished in the court of his hatred against the Pandavas, and they assured
Yarnaraja. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 9) . him all support. After that Krtya took Duryodhana
KRTI III. A
Visvadeva (universal deva) (Anusasana . back to Hastinapura. (Vana Parva, Chapter 252) .
married Krtvi, and Brahmadatta was their son. (4) Krtya opposed Sri Kr^na. While Krsna was ruling
KRTYA (KRTYAKA) I. A Raksasi who is born when Dvaraka, Paundrakavasudeva was the King of Karusa.
the black arts as enunciated in the Atharvaveda are Once he sent a messenger to ask Krsna to go and bow
practised to annihilate enemies. Krtya may appear in down before him as he was the real Vasudeva. Enraged
male form too. Some of the activities of Krtya are at this insolent demand Krsna cut off Paundraka's head
given below. with the Sudan'ana Cakra. The dead King's son,
(1) Carried off Duryodhana. While the Pandavas were Sudaksina, to gather power enough to fight Krsna
living in exile in the forest, Duryodhana and others went to Ka^I and performed penance to please Siva.
went in a procession to the forest Though Duryodhana . Siva appeared and taught him the method of creating
was taken into captivity in the forest by a Gan- Krtya. Accordingly he created from fire, a Krtya, who
dharva, Arjuna saved him out of fraternal considera- dashed against Krsna roaring like hell. Krsna used the
tion for him. Duryodhana returned to Hastinapura. Sudarsana Cakra, which burnt to death not only the
Now the question was whether half of the kingdom Krtya, but also Sudaksina.
KRTYA II 433 KSEMASARMA
(5) Krtya against Prahldda. To change the nature of the hermit Kalakavrksiya began to travel throughout
Prahlada, a great devotee of Visnu, his father Hiranya- the country with a crow kept in a cage. As if the
kasipu deputed Asura preceptors. But, severe punish- crow was speaking, the hermit began to tell the past,
ments like poisoning, throwing into fire etc. did not present and future fortunes of the people. The crow
succeed in changing the devotee's character. At last, became famous and people began to have faith in the
the preceptors raised Krtya from fire. The Sulam, crow. Once Kalakavrksiya and the crow reached the
which Krtya thrust against the throat of Prahlada was palace and under the pretence that the crow was speak-
broken into hundreds of pieces. Krtya then got angry ing, the hermit disclosed all the secret dealings of the
and turned against the preceptors, who had sent her treasury-keeper. The servants of the King stealthily
against Prahlada. The preceptors fell down unconscious put the crow to death that night. When the King
on the verge of death. But, Prahlada touched their knew this he made Kalakavrksiya the minister and the
bodies and they became alive again. (Visnu Purana, country began to prosper. ( M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter
Part 1, Chapter 18). 82).
KRTYA II. A river. Indians used to drink water On
another occasion the treasury of the King Ksema-
from this river. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9 Verse 18). became empty. At this time King Janaka had
darsi
KRURA (KRODHA)! A daughter of Prajapati Daksa. come to war with this King. According to the sincere
She became the wife of Kasyapa. A large number of advice of Kalakavrksiya the King married the daughter
Asuras were born to her. They all were very cruel and of King Janaka. From that day onwards his country
were called Krodhavasas. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, became prosperous. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 106).
Chapter 65, Stanza 32) . KSEMADHANVA. A famous archer who fought on the
KRtJRA. A country in Ancient India. (Mahabharata, side of the Kauravas. This archer led Duryodhana in
Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 65) . the battlefield. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 17, Stanza
KSA(g). This letter means (1) Ksatriya (2) field 27).
(3) Narasirhha (the lion-man incarnation of Visnu) KSEMADHURTI. I. A Ksatriya King of Ancient
(4) Hari (Visnu) (5) Protector of temples and gate India. It is Mahabharata, Adi
stated in Parva,
keeper. (6) Lightning (7) Destruction (8) A demon. Chapter 67, Stanza 64 that this King was born from a
KSAMA. Wife of Prajapati Pulaha. Three sons Kar- portion of the Asura called Krodhavasa. The King
dama, Urvarlyan and Sahisnu were born to Pulaha of ruled over the country called Kuluta. In the battle of
his wife Ksama. (Visnu Purana, Arhsa 1, Stanza 10).
'
Bharata he fought on the side of the Kauravas and
KSAMAKA.' A King" of the Puru dynasty. (Agni was killed by Bhimasena. ( M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter
Purana, Chapter 278) .
12, Stanza 44).
KSATRADEVA. The son of gikhandl. He was a KSEMADHURTI II. A King who took the side of the
famous archer. Bhagadatta wounded the right hand of Kauravas. This King who was the brother of Brhan-
Ksatradeva in the Bharata-battle. He fought with taka, fought with Satyaki in the Bharata battle. (M.B.
Laksmana and Drona. Laksmana killed him. Salya Parva, Chapter 21, Stanza 8).
(M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapters 57 and 171; Bhisma KSEMADHURTI III. A warrior. He fought with
Parva, Chapter 95; Drona Parva, Chapters 14, 21 and Brhatksatra and died in the fight. (
M.B. Drona Parva,
23 Kama Parva, Chapter 6)
;
.
Chapter 107, Stanza 6).
KSATRADHARMAN. A son of Dhrstadyumna. The KSEMAGIRl. Anothername of Bhadrakall (a goddess).
teacher Drona killed him. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter In Agni Purana, Chapter 12, it is mentioned that
125, Stanza "66). Arya, Durga, Vedagarbha, Ambika, Bhadrakall,
KSATRANJAYA. A son of Dhrstadyumna. Drona Bhadra, Ksemya and Naikabahu are also synonyms of
killed him. (M.B. Drona' Parva, Chapter 10, Stanza Bhadrakall.
53). KSEMAKA I. A Raksasa (giant). In Brahmanda
KSATRAVARMAN. A of Dhrstadyumna. He
son 2, it is mentioned
Purana, Chapter that this Raksasa
fought with Jayadratha in the battle of Bharata. had KasI and that the King Divodasa killed
lived in
Drona killed him. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 186). this Raksasa and built a city there.
KSATRIYA. See under Caturvarnya. KSEMAKA II. A serpent (Naga) born to Kasyapa-
KSATTA I. Vidura.
prajapati of his wife Kadru. (M.B. Adi Parva.,
KSATTA. II. word Varna.
.See under the
Chapter 53, Stanza 11 ).
KSEMA. A maid. This celestial maid took
celestial
KSEMAKA III. A King who was a luminary in the
part in the birth celebration of Arjuna. (M.B. Adi
palace of Yudhisthira. Mention is made in Maha-
Parva, Chapter 122, Stanza 66).
KSEMA. A King in Ancient India. Mention is made in bharata, Udyoga Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 24, that
the Pandavas had sent invitation to this King for the
Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Stanza 65, battle of Bharata.
that this King was the rebirth of the Asura Krodha-
vaSa. In the Bharata-battle this King took the side of KSEMAMURTI. A son of Dhrtarastra. (M.B. Adi
the Pandavas and was killed by Drona. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 67, Stanza 100).
Parva, Chapter 21, Stanza 53) . KSEMA5IKARA. A King who was the friend of
K!?EMADARSI. A King of Kosala. There is a story Jayadratha. This King ruled over the country of
in the Mahabharata stating how the hermit Kalaka- Trigarta. Nakula killed this King. (M.B. Vana Parva,
vrkslya saved this King from the trap laid by his Chapters 265 and 275).
favourites. The treasury-keeper spent the money of the KSEMASARMA. A warrior who fought on the side of
King lavishly on himself. The subjects began to the Kauravas. Ksemasarma stood and fought at the
consider how to inform the King about this. Finally neck of the Garudavyuha ( the formation of the army
KSEMAVAHA 434 KUBERA
into the shape of an eagle) made by Karna. (M.B. KSlRAVATl. A holy bath. Those who bathe in this
Drona Parva, Chapter 20, Stanza 6). holy bath will obtain the fruits of performing the
KSEMAVAHA. A warrior of Skanda. (M.B. Salya sacrifice of Vajapeya. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 84) .
Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 66). KSlRIN. A tree in the family of the Uttara Kurus.
KSEMAVRDDHI. The minister of King Salva. He This tree has six tastes. Milk flows ceaselessly from
was both minister and general of the army at the same this tree. It is said that from the fruit of this tree we
time. Samba, the son of Sri Krsna defeated Ksema- could get cloth, ornaments etc. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
vrddhi. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 16). Chapter 7) .
KSETRA (S). Sacred spots. In Malayalam it means KSIT1KAMPANA. A captain of the army of Skanda.
Temples also. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Stanza 59).
1
)
General information. The temples of India are KSUDRAKA. There was a country known as Ksudraka
reflections of the outward form or body of man. As in Ancient India. Those who inhabited this country
the soul lives in the body of man, God dwells in the were called Ksudrakas. It is stated in Mahabharata,
temples. The stone, rock, marble, metals etc. are equal Sabha Parva, Chapter 52 that the Ksudrakas had
to the bones of the body of a man. brought gifts to Dharmaputra. In the battle of Bharata
2) Two types of temples. Temples are of two types. Duryodhana protected Sakuni with the help of the
One type is the Gramadevata temples. These are Ksudrakas. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 51, Stanza 16).
It is stated in Mahabharata, Bhisma Parva, Chapter 19
temples in which goddess Bhadrakali is consecrated
and worshipped for the protection of villages and that the Ksudrakas attacked Arjuna at the behest of
cities. The second type is of special temples. These are Bhisma. Many Ksudrakas were killed when ParaSu-
temples specially meant for a particular god or rama exterminated the Ksatriyas. (M.B. Drona
goddess. Thus there are temples for Visnu, Siva, Parva, Chapter 70).
Ganapati and so on.
KSUPA I. A Prajapati. There is a story about the
birth of this Prajapati in Mahabharata. Once Brahma
3 ) Gramadevata temples. Worship of Bhadrakali existed
in India from very early times. When Mohanjodaro
wished to perform a sacrifice. But he could not get
suitable priest as the performer of the sacrifice. So
and' Harappa were excavated idols of Devi (goddess)
more than 4000 years old, were obtained from there. Brahma decided to create a befitting person as Rtvik
(the priest who does the rituals of the sacrifice) and
During the prevalence of Buddhism in India the he got pregnant in his head. After a thousand years he
goddesses Yaksi and Hariti were worshipped in sneezed and a Prajapati came out of the head of
India. Later when Hinduism was revived these
Brahma. That Prajapati was Ksupa. He made Ksupa
goddesses took their places in it as the goddesses of
Hindu Puranas and epics. The Kali temples of Ujja- his Rtvik.(Mahabharata, Sand Parva, Chapter 122) .
Ravana mobilised his army against Kubera and the mountains, trees, Devas, Asuras, Saptarsis, Raksasas etc.
came to the earth and sang his praises, and as ordered by
Devas, and decided first to attack Kubera. At the head
the emperor the earth turned itself into a cow and they
of a huge army led by heroes like Mahodara, Prahasta,
milked her. It was Kubera who served as calf when
Marica, Suka, Sarana, Vajradamstra, Dhumraksa,
the Raksasas began to milk the cow. (Drona Parva,
Virupaksa, Yupaksa, Mahaparsva, Malta, Unmatta,
Vikata, Suptaghna, Yajnantaka, Makaraksa, Kumbha- Chapter 69, Verse 24).
The Devas crowned Prthu as emperor, and, on that
karna, Atikaya and Aksakumara, Ravana marched to
occasion imperial symbols were presented to him. The
Alakapurl where a fierce battle ensued between Rava- throne was presented by Kubera; the royal umbrella by
na's and Kubera's armies. Many Yaksas were killed
Ravana's army, and the Yaksa hero Manicara Varuna; the crown by Indra and the sceptre by Yama.
by
killed a large number of Raksasas. As a last resort (Bhagavata, 4th Skandha Chapter 15, Verses 14 and 15).
Ravana thrashed Manicara on the head with a club 12) Kubera cursed Tumburu. The Yaksa called Tumburu
once displeased Kubera, who cursed him into a Raksasa.
and this turned the hair on his head to one side. From
that day Manicara came to be known as Parsvamauli
He was to be redeemed from the curse on his death at
In the fight that followed the hands of Sri Rama. Tumburu, who was born as
(head turned to one side).
between Kubera and Ravana the former fell down Viradha, the Raksasa in Dandakaranya attacked Rama
unconscious. But, the Yaksas brought two Vimanas
and Laksmana during their stay in exile in the forest
and carried Kubera to the palace. Ravana plundered and was killed by them. He was cremated in the forest.
Kubera's palace and carried off to Lanka a lot of costly He resumed his former form as Tumburu and returned
to Kubera's palace. (Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya
gems and other wealth. (Uttara Ramayana)
Kanda, Canto 4) .
9) Kubera became a Chameleon. King Marutta once per- 13) Kubera became Pingaldkfa. Kubera once looked with
formed a Mahesvara yajiia to which were invited
jealousy at Parvati seated on the left thigh of Siva, and
Indra, Varuna, Kubera and Kala. While the yajna was therefore, he became blind in one eye. When Parvati
progressing Ravana came that way with his army. regained her equanimity she turned that eye of Kubera
Indra and the others, in great fear, ran away and into yellow in colour so that he might always remember
escaped disguised in various forms, Kubera assuming the incident. Henceforth Kubera came to be known as
the form of a chameleon. After resuming his own form
Ekapingala.
Kubera gave the Chameleon the gift to change its 14) Agastya cursed Kubera. Kubera also was invited to
colour. It was further blessed that to the onlookers it the chanting of mantras held by the Devas at Kusavati.
would seem that there was gold on its cheeks. (Uttara Kubera was on his way to KuSavati with Maniman
Ramayana ) .
when the latter spat on the" head of Agastya, who was
10) Kubera cursed Virupaksa. Kubera had a yaksa called performing penance on the banks of river Kalindi.
Virupaksa as Manager, and he was in charge of Agastya cursed them thus: "Oh Kubera, your attend-
Kubera's treasures also. Virupaksa had employed a ant Maniman has insulted me. Therefore, he himself and
the army will be killed by a man. You will grieve over
gigantic yaksa to look after the treasures outside the
their death. But, you will be absolved from this curse at
capital. One day a brahmin called Pasupata came in
search of treasures to Alakapurl. He knew a very the sight of the man, who had killed Maniman and his
peculiar art, viz. he would go about with a lamp army."
lighted with 'the ghee of men' (oily substance extracted Bhimasena, who went to mount Gandhamadana in
from human body) and the lamp would tumble down search of the Saugandhika flower could kill Maniman
from his hands on earth exactly on spots where trea- and his soldiers because of this curse of Agistya. After
sures lay hidden. Pasupata tried to unearth Kubera's killing Maniman, Bhima saw Kubera in person, and
treasures by the above means, and Virupaksa who got the latter got absolved from the curse. (Vana Parva,
scent of the brahmin's activities got him killed. Since a Chapter 161).
brahmin (PaSupata) was killed the sin of brahmahatya 1
5) Other information about Kubera. (i ) He comforted
affected the Yaksa community, and angered at this the Pandavas once during their life in exile in the forest.
Kubera cursed Virupaksa into a man, and he was born (Vana Parva, Chapter 161, Verse 41) .
on earth as the son of a brahmin. Virupaksa's wife war with Ravana when Sri Rama
(ii) During the
complained about this curse to Kubera, who told her fainted on the field, it was the water, purified by
that she would be born as a daughter of the maid- Kubera sent through the Yaksa,
mantras, which
servant of the brahmin as whose son her husband was
Guhyaka, which brought Rama back to consciousness.
born, and that he (son) would marry her. Kubera, (Vana Parva, Chapter 289, Verse 9) .
though at a reunion after a long separation. First the (v) A King called Mucukunda once fought with
brahmin boy and after him his wife expired, and they Kubera. (Santi Parva, Chapter 74, Verse 4). See under
returned to Alakapurl. (Kathasaritsagara ) Mucukunda.
KUBERATlRTHA 437 KUKKURA I
(vi) Sukra once carried off all the wealth of Kubera, hand and got killed. Brahma was pleased at this and
who complained to Siva about it. Siva, in anger, raised granted Kubja a place in Suryaloka.
his ula, when Sukra stood on its top and pressed it KUBjAMRAKA. A holy place. visit to A
this place is
down. Siva threw Sukra off, but he fell into the palms as good asoffering a gift of a thousand cows. The
of Siva who threw him again. Sukra then entered the visitor will also attain heaven. (Vana Parva, Chapter
stomach of Siva and roamed about there finding no 84, Verse 40) .
path to get out. Siva waited with the sula to kill Sukra KUCELA. Sudaman, better known
Kucela was a as
the moment he came out of his (Siva's) stomach. Sukra brahmin class-mate of Sri the Asrama of
Krsna at
came out as Siva's son, and ParvatI prevented Siva from sage Sandipani. One day Sandipani's wife deputed
killing Sukra on the plea that it was not proper to kill Kucela and Krsna to collect fire-wood from the forest,
one's own son. Sukra thus escaped and Kubera lost and they had to stay the whole night there as they
some of his wealth. (Santi Parva, Chapter 289). could not find out the way back to the asrama due to
(vii) On another occasion Kubera entertained sage heavy rain, thunder etc. After their education was
Astavakra. (AnuSasana Parva, Chapter 19, Verse 37). over these two thick friends left the ai'rama and went
(viii) Kubera should be installed in temples as seated ways in life.
their different
on a goat with club in his hand. ( Agni Purana, Chap- Sri Krsna became the lord of Dvaraka, and Kucela a
ter 51). house-holder with many children, and starvation
(ix) The name of Kubera's wife wasBhadra. (Adi gripped the family. One day, at the instance of his
Parva, Chapter 198, Verse 6). wife, Kucela started for Dvaraka to visit Krsna with a
(x) Kubera is called Naravahana also as he rides in a packet of rice flakes as a present to him. Krsna receiv-
vehicle drawn by men. He is also called Rajaraja, ed his old classmate most cordially, and ate one hand-
as he is
King of Kings. (Adi Parva, Chapter 275, Verses ful of rice flakes from the packet brought by Kucela.
1-3). Rukmini prevented him from a second helping of the
(xi) Visravas got angry with Kubera, and from
that flakes. After spending some time most happily with his
day he deputed three Raksasa girls to serve his father. old friend, Kucela started homewards. Only on his
(Vana Parva, Chapter 275,' Verses 1-3) .
way back did he think that Krsna had not given him
xii) Synonyms for Kubera used in Mahabharata. Alaka- any monetary help. But, by the time he reached home
dhipa, Dhanada, Dhanadesvara, Dhanagopta, Dhana- his old dilapidated house had converted itself into a
dhipa, Dhanadhipati, Dhanadhyaksa, Dhanesvara, beautiful mansion, and his wife and children were in
Dhanapati, Dhanesa, Dravinapati, Gadadhara, Guhya- great happiness. Sri Krsna's blessings thus converted
kadhipa, Guhyakadhipati, Kailasanilaya, Naravahana, poor Kucela into a very rich person. (Bhagavata, 10th
Nidhipa, Paulastya, Rajaraja, Rajarat, Raksasadhipati, Skandha) .
Raksasesvara, Vaisravana, Vittagopta, Vittapati, KUHA. A prince of the Sauvlra kingdom. He was a
Vittesa, Yaksadhipa, Yaksadhipati, Yaksapati, Yaksa- follower of Jayadratha. (Vana Parva, Chapter 265,
pravara, Yaksarat, Yaksaraja, Yaksaraksasabharta, Verse 11).
Yak sarak sodhipa . KUHARA. A King of Kalinga. He was born from an
xiii) Kubera's garden is called Caitraratha, his son aspect of the Asura called Krodhavasa. (Adi Parva,
Nalakubara, his capital Alaka and his mountain-seat Chapter 67, Verse 65) .
called Revati. (Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha). KUMARA A sage reputed as Sanatkumara. (For
III.
KUKURA I. (KUKtJRA). A King of the Vrsni details seeunder Sanatkumara).
dynasty. From Vrsni the descendants are in the KUMARA IV. One of the prominent sons of Garuda.
following order Yudhajit -Sini
:
Satyaka Satyaki KUMARA V. An urban region in ancient India. King
(Yuyudhana) Jaya Kuni Anamitra Prsni Sreniman of Kumara was defeated by Bhlma during
Citraratha Kukura. As Kukura was a very reputed his triumphal tour. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 30, Verse
King his successors were also called Kukuras. The T
1).
Ksatriyas of this dynasty were subject to the orders of KUMARA (S). Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatkumara and
Sri Krsna. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 28). Members of Sanatsujata were the sons of Brahma endowed with
the Kukura and Andhaka dynasties became drunkards, eternal youthfulness. They are known as the Kumaras.
and at last quarrelled with one another and died. KUMARADASA. A Sanskrit poet of the 7th century
(Mausala Parva, Chapter 3 ) . A.D. His chief work is the great poem called Janakl-
KUKURA II. A serpent born in the Kasyapa dynasty. haranam consisting of twenty cantos.
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 103, Verse 10). KUMARADATTA. Guardian of the mother of the
KUKURA (M). An urban region in ancient India. Vaisya called Musika.(See under Musika).
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 60). KUMARADHARA. A which has its source in
river
KUKSI I. To Svayambhuva Manu the son of Brahma Brahmasaras. Those who bathe in the river will be-
were born two sons called Priyavrata and Uttanapada come intelligent and wealthy. (Vana Parva, Chapter
by his wife Satarupa, and Kardama Prajapati married 84, Verse 149) .
the daughter of Priyavrata. And, to them were born KUMARAKA. A prominent serpent born in the
three sons called Samrat, Kuksi and Viral. (Agni Kauravya dynasty. It was burnt to death at the serpent
Purana, Chapter 18) yajiia of King Janamejaya. (Adi Parva, Chapter 57,
.
about sanctification of the entire family. (Vana Parva, KUMARl IV. A river in ancient India. (Bhisma
Chapter 83, Verse 104). Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 36).
KUMARI V 439 KUMBHAKARNA
KUM&Rl V. A river in the Saka island. (Bhisma feed the cows their keepers went with their live-stock
Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 32). every morning to Kumbhaka's place where summer had
KUMARlPUjA. It is a special item in Navaratripuja. not yet even peeped in, and after feeding their cows
According to the definition 'Kumarika tu sa prokta there, they returned home in the evening. But, one even-
dvivarsa ya bhavediha', Kumari is a two-year old ing they led back with them the cows used by the sage for
female child. To worship such a child is Kumarlpuja, his Pujas. When the sun set, as usual the sage sat before
and it should be conducted accompanied by sumptuous the sacred fire for Puja. But, the cow had not come.
feasts and presentation of clothes etc. There are no With his divine vision he found out the reason for the
hard and fast rules as to how many Kumaris should absence of the cow. He cursed that the region where
be worshipped and as to the manner and method of the keepers of the cows lived be turned into a desert,
the worship. The same Kumari may be worshipped and the kingdom of Kasi became a desert place, where-
during all the days of the Puja, or every day one more upon king Divodasa went to the banks oftheGomati
girl may be worshipped
like this: one girl on the first and founded a new kingdom there. (Brahmanda Purana
day, two on the second day and so on. Or it may be Chapter 2) .
it will not be fully sensitive to taste, smell etc. Also, Chapter 275 of the Vana Parva. But, according to
age alone does not render Kumaris suitable for worship. Uttara Ramayana, Ravana, Vibhlsana and Kumbha-
They should be absolutely free from ulcers, leprosy, karna were born to Visravas of his wife called Kaikasl.
ugliness, squint-eyes, dwarnshnesp, lameness, bad According to the Agni Purana, Puspotkata and Kaika^i
odour, stigma of low birth etc. For the achievement of were one and the same.
special objects a Brahmin child should be worshipped; 3) Former births of Kumbhakarna. Ravana and Kumbha-
for victory, a Ksatriya child and for profit, a Vaigya karna were originally the two Devas called Jaya and
or a Sudra child should be worshipped. The Brahmin Vijaya. Visnu appointed them as gate-keepers at Vai-
may worship brahmin children; the Ksatriya, Brahmin kuntha. Once they stopped sages like Sanaka and others
and Ksatriya children; the Vaisya, Brahmin, Ksatriya at the gates, and the latter cursed Jaya and Vijaya into
and Vaisya children; and the Sudra, Brahmin, Raksasas. When they complained about the curse to
Ksatriya, Vai;'ya and Sudra children. (Devi Bhaga- Visnu he promised to welcome them back to Vaikuntha
vata, 3rd Skandha) . after they had lived three births as Raksasas. Accord-
KUMBHA I. One of the three sons of Prahlada, the ingly Jaya was born as Hiranyaksa and Vijaya as
other two being Virocana and Nikumbha. (Adi Hiranyakasipu, both of them Asuras. Mahavisnu incar-
Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 19). nated himself as a Boar and killed Hiranyaksa and
KUMBHA. II. Son of Kumbhakarna, whose wife as Narasirhha he killed Hiranyakasipu. Hiranyaksa and
Vajrajvala bore him two sons called Kumbha and Hiranyakasipu were reborn as Ravana and Kumbha-
Nikumbha. Both of them were very powerful, and karna respectively. Mahavisnu, during his incarnation
Kumbha, in the Rama-Ravana war defeated the army as Sri Rama killed both Ravana and Kumbhakarna.
of monkeys on various occasions. Many of the ministers Ravana was reborn as Sisupala and Kumbha-
of Sugriva tried to defeat Kumbha. Arigada, son of karna as Dantavaktra. Both of them were killed by
Bali also could not stand up to him. Then Sugriva Mahavisnu during his incarnation as Sri Krsna. Thus
fought against Kumbha and flung him into the sea the Deva called Vijaya, on account of the curse of
when the water in it rose up to the level of mount Sanaka and other sages, passed through three lives as
Vindhya. Kumbha came ashore from the sea roaring Hiranyakasipu, Kumbhakarna and Dantavaktra and
but was fisted to death by Sugriva. (Valmlki Ra.ma.yana, finally reached Vaikuntha. (Bhagavata, 7th Skandha).
Yuddha Kanda, Canto 76). 4) Kumbhakarna secured boons. Kumbhakarna spent his
KUMBHAKA' I. A warrior of Skanda. (Salya Parva, childhood with his brothers at the asrama of his father
Chapter 45, Verse 75). on mount Gandhamadana. Kubera was at the zenith of
KUMBHAKA II. (Nikumbhaka) A very reputed sage.
. his glory at that time, having been crowned king of the
If he visitedany place at dusk he left it only after a Yaksas, and also having got the Puspaka Vimana. The
thousand years. He visited Kasi once when King Divo- reputation of Kubera kindled jealousy in Kumbhakarna
dasa was ruling the state after having killed the Raksasa and his brothers. They too performed penance in the
called Ksemaka, who had lived like a king there. Kum- forest on one foot for a thousand years. But, Brahma
bhaka lived in a forest in Kasi with his disciples. did not appear. They continued the penance without
Prosperity reigned supreme within a radius of three eating any food. Khara and Surpanakha stayed there
Yojanas from where the sage lived. Neither wild beasts serving their brothers. Even after the second thousand
nor famine infested the area. years Brahma did not appear. Then Ravana cut off his
Once a fierce famine broke out in Kas"i, and the failure ten heads and made offerings of them to Brahma. Then
of rain caused great havoc. Finding it impossible to Brahma appeared. Brahma restored his heads to Ravana
KUMBHAKARI^ASRAMA 440 KUMUDAMALl
and he was granted the boon that he would not be called Madhupa. Ravana killed him. (See under
killed by anybody but a man. The Devas shuddered Madhupa) .
at the gift to Ravana, and feared about the future in KUMBHlNASA. An asura and a notorious philanderer.
case Kumbhakarna too got such a boon. At their request (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 39, Verse 7).
Sarasvati danced on his tongue at the time of KUMBHlNASl I. Wife of Angaraparna, a great
Kumbhakarna's request for a boon. Kumbha- Gandharva. When Arjuna was about to kill Citraratha
karna wanted NIRDEVATVAM (Absence of all KumbhlnasI requested Yudhisthira to save her husband,
Devas) But by a slip of the tongue (caused by Saras-
. and he was accordingly set free. (For details see under
vati) what he asked for was nidravatvam (sleep). Angaraparna) .
Brahma granted him nidravatvam he said that Kum- ; KUMBHlNASl II. A daughter born to Visvavasu of
bhakarna would sleep for six months of the year Anala. A Raksasa called Madhu abducted and made
continuously. Vibhisana got the boon that he should re- her his wife. The famous Lavanasura was their son.
member righteousness in danger and use the Brahmastra KUMBHlPAKA (M). One of the twentyeight narakas
without any training in its use. The brothers returned (hells). It intended for the cruel folk, who kill for
is
home after securing the boons, and, after driving off food harmless animals and birds. Since such cruel folk
Kubera, the lord of Lanka, Ravana and his brothers are roasted inKumbhi fire the hell came to be known
took their abode there. (Vana Parva, Chapter 275 and by name.
this Big vessels full of boiling oil are kept
Uttara Ramayana) . there and the servants ofYama push the sinners into
5) Death of Kumbhakarna. Kumbhakarna played a very them. One who had killed an animal will be kept in
important part in the Rama-Ravana war. Prominent the boiling oil for as many years as the number of hairs
warriors on the side of Rama, like Sugriva, his minis- the animal killed by him had on its body. (Devi
ters and Laksmana fought with him. But, none of them Bhagavata, 8th Skandha; also see under Pitrtlrtha).
could kill him. At last, Sri Rama's arrows killed him. KUMUDA A prominent serpent.
I. (Adi Parva,
(Valmlki Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda, Chapter 67). Chapter 35, Verse 15).
Kumbhakarna is not to be viewed merely and purely KUMUDA II. A prominent monkey, who was an
as an evil character. His advice to Ravana on various attendant of Sugriva. (Vana Parva, Chapter 289, Verse
occasions shows noble traits of his character. When Sri 4).
Rama with his army of monkeys appeared on the other KUMUDA III. A great elephant born in the dynasty
side of the ocean Ravana held a conference of his of Supratika. (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 99, Verse 15).
brothers, ministers and others at which Kumbhakarna KUMUDA IV. A son of Garuda. (Udyoga Parva,
spoke as follows: "You abducted Sita without consult- Chapter 101, Verse 12).
ing us, and we would not therefore be responsible for KUMUDA V. One of the five attendants given by
the consequences of that action of yours. But, it is not Brahma to Skanda. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse
proper that the younger brother should keep away 39).
when danger faces the elder one, and on that principle KUMUDA VI. A warrior who fought with Skanda-
here I am
ready to fight Rama." deva. (Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 56).
These weighty words of Kumbhakarna throw consi- KUMUDA VII. A synonym of Mahavisnu. (Anu-
derable light on the character of Kumbhakarna. sasana Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 76) .
wind and noted for their sexual energy. (Salya Parva, KUNDABHEDl. A son of Dhrtarastra; Bhima killed
Chapter 45, Verse 25) .
(Drona Parva, Chapter 127, Verse 60).
him.
KUMUDODARA. A particular region in the Saka KUNDADANTA. A Videha brahmin, Kundadanta
island.(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 25). gave up his worldly possession for the attainment
KUMUDVATI I. Wife of King Vimarsana of Kirata- of spiritual knowledge, and sought the help of sage
dea. Kumudvati requested him one day, to put a Kadamba. Finding that he had not yet completely
stop to his cruelties against the people. His reply was mastered the senses Kadamba sent him to Ayodhya,
as follows : "Oh ! dear wife, don't feel sorry. In my where he lived with Sri Rama, and Vasistha taught
past was a dog and, starved almost to death. I
life I him the necessary texts on the subject so that he
went to the gates of the Siva temple at Pampapura. It attained spiritual knowledge. (Yogavasi stha ) .
was CaturdasI day, and thousands of people had KUNDADHARA I. A son of Dhrtarastra. He is known as
gathered there, and I stood there looking at the Kundodara also. Bhimasena killed him. (Bhisma Parva,
Sivaliriga. Then someone cried out, 'Beat the dog to Chapter 88, Verse 23) .
death', and though, in mortal terror, I ran thrice KUNDADHARA II. A serpent worshipping Varuna in
about the temple, people beat me to death. Since, his court. ( Sabha Parva, ChapterVerse 9) 9. .
although only by accident, I had run thrice around KUNDADHARA III. A cloud. None of the Devas
the temple, I was born as a King in the present life. I condescended to bless a poor brahmin, who once per-
cherish the greatest devotion for Lord Siva; but, as formed penance in the forest when a cloud called Kunda-
inherent tendencies do not die out so easily I possess dhara appeared and told him that, if the Devas would
certain characteristics of the dog and that is why I permit, he (cloud) would bles him. Immediately the
commit the present cruelties." Deva called Manibhadra requested the cloud to bless
On the brahmin. The cloud did so and the brahmin
hearing her husband's past history Kumudvati
wanted to know about her past also, and Vimarsana attained salvation. (Sand Parva, Chapter 271).
said thus "In the past life you were a she-dove. Once
: KUNDAJA (KUJVDABHEDI. A son of Dhrtarastra;
you sat on the top of a Parvati temple with a piece of Bhima killed him. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 96, Verse
flesh in your beak. Then another dove tried to snatch 26).
it from you, and with it you flew thrice round the KUKIDALA A
serpent born in the Kaurava dynasty.
I.
temple. But, the other dove killed you and flew away
It was burnt death at the serpent yajna of Jana-
to
with the piece of flesh. Since you flew around the mejaya. (Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Verse 16).
Parvati temple thrice you are now born as a queen." KUNDALA II. An urban region in ancient India.
VimarSana told her this also that in the next birth she (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 63).
would be born as the daughter of King Srnjaya, as the KUNDALAPURUSA. See under Samudrika Sastra.
daughter of the King of Kalinga in her third rebirth, KUNDALl I. One of the children of Garuda. (Udyoga
as the daughter of the King of Magadha in her fourth Parva, Chapter 101, Verse 9).
birth, as the daughter of King Dasarna in her fifth KUNDALl II. A river the water of which was drunk by
birth, as the daughter of Yayati in her sixth birth, as the Indians. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 21).
the daughter named Vasumati of the King of Vidarbha KUNDALl III. A son of Dhrtarastra, also kuown as
in her seventh birth, and that ultimately she would Kundasi. He was killed by Bhima. (Bhisma. Parva,
attain salvation. Vimarsana in his next birth would Chapter 96, Verse 24) .
likewise be born as the Sindhu King, as the King of KUNDALI IV. A synonym of Sri Krsna. (Anugasana
Saurastra in his third birth, as the King of Gandhara Parva, Chapter 149, Verse 110).
in his fourth birth, as King of Avanti in his fifth birth, KUNDAPARANTA. An urban area in ancient India.
as King Anarta in his sixth birth, as King of the (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 49) .
Pandyas in his seventh birth, and that ultimately he KUNDARIKA. A female attendant of Skandadeva.
too would attain salvation. Thus Vimarsana taught his (Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 15) .
wife that both of them would ultimately attain salvation KUNDASI. See under Kundali III.
as they had gone round the temple. (Siva Purana, KUNDIKA. Great-grandson ofKing Kuru of the lunar
Caturdaslmahatmya) .
dynasty, and son of Dhrtarastra. (Adi Parva, Chapter
KUMUDVATI II. Wife of Kusa, son of Sri Rama. 94, Verse 58) .
Kusa lost the ornaments on his hands in water once KUNDINA. The capital of ancient Vidarbha. Dama-
while he was sporting in the river. Angry at the loss yantl was born and brought up in this city. (See under
Kusa was about to shoot his arrows at the Sarayii when Damayanti).
the naga called Kumuda not only returned to him his KUNDlVISA. An urban region in ancient India.
lost ornaments but also gave Kumudvati as" wife to him. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 50, Verse 50) .
KUl^IGARGA. A reputed sage. By severe austerities he Ki-ti and Mali. (Adi Parva, Chapter 67, Verse 160) .
increased his spiritual powers, created a girl by his 2) Kunti and the mantra. To treat brahmins who came
mental power, and afterwards entered into Samadhi. to the court of Kuntibhoja with worshipful offerings
The girl, who did not relish the idea of marriage, began etc. was the duty of Kunti. Once sage Durvasas visited
penance in solitude, and she grew old. In the Maha- Kuntibhoja, and as he knew that the sage was easily
bharata she is known as Vrddhakanya (Old Virgin) In .
annoyed Kunti was specially deputed for his service,
the evening of her life she longed to give up her and she served him to the utmost. One day, to test
material body and to attain salvation. At this juncture Kunti, he asked her to be ready with his food by the
Narada told her that salvation was not for unmarried time he took his bath, and he took practically no time
women. She, therefore, gave half the power of her to return after bath and sit for meals. By that time
penance to a young man called Snigavan and lived as Kunti had managed to cook his food, which she placed
his wife for one single night. She thus attained salvation before him in a plate. The food was too hot and steam-
(Salya Parva, Chapter 52). ing, and the sage meaningfully looked at the back of
KUJVINDA. A noble brahmin. He presented a divine Kunti. Realising the meaning of the look, Kunti turned
conch to Yudhisthira at his Rajasuya Yajna. (Sabha her back to the sage for him to place the plate of food
Parva. Chapter 51, Southern text). thereon. The sage placed it accordingly on her back
KUNJA. A reputed sage. Once he enjoyed the company and began eating. Though her back was really burning
of Pramloca, the celestial woman. (See under she showed no sign of it. Pleased at her behaviour the
Pramloca) .
sage taught her a mantra and blessed her to the follow-
KUNJALA I. A warrior of Skanda. (Salya Parva. ing effect.
Chapter 45). "Repeating mantra you invoke whichever Deva you
this
KUNJALA II. A wise parrot which lived on the banks like and thanks
to his favour you will get children.
of the river Narmada. The Padma Purana (Chapter (Kathasaritsagara, Lavanakalambaka, Taranga 2 and
85, Bhumikhanda) has the following to say about the Bharata (Malayalam) Chapter 111).
parrot. 3) Kunti tested the mantra. After the departure of
Kunjala, wise parrot, had a wife and four sons
the Durvasas from the palace, Kunti developed an irresisti-
called Ujjvala, Samujjvala, Vijvala and Kapinjala. ble desire to test the efficacy of the mantra, and one
These brothers used to feed themselves on sweet fruits day she invoked Sun-god with the mantra. Thereupon
etc. on the planes, mountains and other places. They Surya approached her in the guise of a brahmin youth.
also used to carry tasty fruits to their parents. The four Kunti got alarmed. Owing to disinclination to become
brothers thus led a happy life in every way. (See under an unmarried mother Kunti could not make up her mind
Subahu) . to welcome the brahmin youth. But, Surya deva argued
KUNJARA I. A great monkey. Anjana mother of that his coming could not be in vain, and Kunti had
Hanuman was the daughter of Kunjara. (Valmiki to yield. She requested Surya for a son adorned with
Ramayana, Kiskindha Kanda; Canto 66, Verse 9). helmet, ear-rings etc. (Vana Parva Chapter 207 Verse
KUNJARA II. A well-known serpent. (Adi Parva, 17).
Chapter 35, Verse 15). Surya assured Kunti that even though a child was born
KUNJARA III. A prince of the Sauvira country. He to her from him, that will not affect her virginity and
was a follower of Jayadratha, and was killed by Arjuna. departed. Kunti delivered a son in due course of time
(Vana Parva, Chapter 271 ). in secret. She locked up the child in a box and floated
KUNTAKA (KUNTALA). A Sanskrit poet who flour- it in the Yamuna. An old charioteer called Adhiratha
ished in the eleventh century A.D. He was a contem- picked up the child from the river and brought it up as
porary of Abhinavagupta, and a critic who maintained though it were his own son. That boy grew up to
that the 'life' of real poetry was Vakrokti ( expressing become the famous Kama. (Adi Parva, Chapter 112).
ideas in an artistically round-about way instead of in a 4) Kunti's wedding. In due course Kuntibhoja cele-
blunt and plain manner). brated Kuntl's Svayarhvara and she chose King Pandu
KUNTALA. The King of the country Kuntala. Kuntala of the lunar dynasty as her husband, and Pandu took
was a Kingdom in ancient South India. The King of her to Hastinapura in all pomp and glory. (Adi Parva,
the country was called Kuntala and the people were Chapter 112).
known as Kuntalas. (Sabha Parva, and Bhisma Parva ) .
5) Kunti's wedded life. Pandu married another wife also
KUNTl (PRTHA) Wife of King Pandu and the mother
. called Madri, and all the three of them led a very
of the Pandavas, Kunti is a noble heroine in the Maha- happy life. During one of those days Pandu went
bharata. a hunting in the forest and arrowed to death sage Kin-
1) Birth. Kunti was the sister of Sri Krsna's father dama, who was making love with his wife in the forest,
Vasudeva. Her real name was Prtha. Vasudeva and both of them having assumed the forms of deer. The
Prtha were the children of King Surasena of the Yadava sage cursed Pandu with death the moment he touched
dynasty. King Kuntibhoja was the son of Surasena's his wives, and grief-stricken at the curse he told his
sister. He had no issues. Surasena had promised to give wives about it and decided to take to Sannyasa. But,
the daughter first born to him as the adopted daughter the wives told him that they would commit suicide in
of Kuntibhoja, and accordingly his first-born daughter case he took to Sannyasa. Ultimately Pfindu went to
Prtha was given to Kuntibhoja, and Kunti was brought Satasrnga with his wives, and there he began the per-
up in his palace. From that day onwards Prtha came to formance ofpenanc.es.
be known as Kunti. (Adi Parva, Chapter ill). After some time Pandu asked his wives to become
Kunti, Madri and Gandharl were born from aspects mothers by some noble persons. But, Kunti and Madri
respectively of the three celestial women Siddhi, did not agree to it. Then Kunti told Pandu about the
KUNTI I 443 KUNTI II
boon she had got from Durvasas, and with his per- 8). Kunti before Kama. War clouds grew thick and
mission she bore three sons called Dharmaputra, Bhima fast, and Kuntiat Vidura's house got restless. Her
and Arjuna respectively from the three Devas, Dharma, heart trembled at the disasters of war as described by
Vayu and Indra. As it had been ordained that the Vidura. She went alone to the banks of the Ganga
fourth and fifth children would bring sorrows and pain where just then Kama was engaged in Japa with his
to the parents Kunti satisfied herself with three child- hands raised and face turned to the east. Kunti waited
ren (Adi Parva, Chapter 122, Verses 77, 78) . for some time after which they began to talk. With
tears in her eyes Kunti told Karna that he was her
But, asPandu desired that Madii also should have
son and implored him to return to the Pandava side
children by Kunti 's mantra she used the remaining
to which Kama replied as follows : "Oh noble lady,
!
their husband. But, as the sages and other relations 9) Last days of Kunti. The great war ended. Thou-
insisted that one of them should live to bring up the sands of warriors on the Kaurava side like the mighty
children, Madri alone ended'her life, and Kunti returned Karna were no more. On the Pandava side also many
to Hastinapura with the five children. (Adi Parva, were killed. Though the Pandavas won the war their
Chapter 125). hearts no more enjoyed peace or happiness. Kunti
7 ) Kunti at At Hastinapura differences suffered as though caught in a wild fire. She asked
Hastinapura.
the Pandavas to perform the obsequies for Karna also.
cropped up between the Pandavas and the Kauravas.
Kunti and the five Pandavas removed themselves to When she let out the secret that Karna was her first-
the 'Lac palace' built at Varanavata. When the palace born child Dharmaputra burst into tears. Kunti
was gutted by fire Kunti and her sons escaped through consoled Subhadra and Uttara who were lamenting
a secret tunnel to the forest, and Bhima carried the over the death of Abhimanyu. She requested Sri
worn out Kunti on his shoulders. In the forest the Krsna to cremate the dead son of Uttara.
Raksasa woman HidimbI, requested Kunti to permit Then Kunti went to Gandharl, who stood there bathed
Bhima to become her husband, and Kunti advised in tears. Grief-stricken, Dhrtarastra and Gandharl
started for the forest. Holding Gandhari's hand in hers
Bhima to beget a child by HidimbI, and thus was born
Ghatotkaca. At the city named Ekacakra, Vyasa consoled Kunti led the way. The Pandavas prevented their
Kunti. There the brahmins complained to Kunti about mother from going, but she did not yield. She advised
the depredations of Bakasura. Kunti got Baka killed by Dharmaputra to have a special eye on Sahadeva, not
to forget Kama's name and not to show any dis-
Bhima and asked the brahmins to keep the matter secret.
On the advice of a brahmin who came there accidental- pleasure towards Bhima and Pancall. But, the
Pandavas wanted to follow their beloved mother into
ly Kunti and others visited the Pancala kingdom, and
there Arjuna, having defeated all the Kings present the forest. Pancall and Subhadra stationed themselves
at Pancall's Svayamvara wedded her. The Pandavas behind Kuril!, who
shed copious tears at the sight.
who returned with Pancall at dusk time were asked by Dhrtarastra and Gandharl, who also felt deeply
Kunti to enjoy that day's bhiksa (Alms received) to- pained at the sight tried their best to dissuade Kunti
from following them to the forest. But, Kunti consoled
gether among themselves. Accordingly Pancall became
the wife of all the five Pandavas. Vidura, at the court her sons and daughters-in-law by means of sympathetic
of the Pancala King saluted Kunti and presented to her words and followed Dhrtarastra and Gandharl to the
various varieties of gems. Kunti and Vidura talked
banks of the Gaiiga, where all of them lived together.
about the painful incidents of the past, and Vidura The Pandavas felt acutely the absence of their mother
at home. They went to the forest and paid their res-
escorted the Pandavas back to Hastinapura.
pects to Kunti on the banks of the Gariga. Kunti
Arjuna led a solitary life in the forest for one year, and embraced Sahadeva with tears in her eyes. Though
then returned to Hastinapura with Subhadra whom
he Yudhisthira and Sahadeva wanted to stay with Kunti
had married meanwhile. Kunti received Subhadra in her service she did not allow that. Kunti, Dhrta-
heartily. In the game of dice with Duryodhana, Dharma- rastra and Gandharl performed penance in the forest
putra was defeated, and the Pandavas again started near the Ganga, taking food only once in a month.
for their life in the forest. During this
period Kunti The three of them died there in a wild fire. (Asrama-
lived in Vidura's house. Meanwhile Sri Krsna one vasika Parva, Chapter 37, Verse 31). Their relations
day
visited Kunti. and she told Krsna about the fate of her inmersed their bones in the Ganga and performed the
sons with tears in her eyes. Duryodhana refused to
give necessary obsequies. (Strl, Santi, As ramavasika and
half of the kingdom to the Pandavas, who returned Asvamedhika Parvans) .
after twelve years' life in exile in the forest and one Kunti in Devaloka. Madri and Pandu
10) Kunti,
year's life incognito. Sri Krsna prompted the Pandavas went to Devaloka. (Svargarohana Parva, Chapter 5,
to war with the Kauravas, and both the Verse 15).
parties began
preparations for war. (Adi Parva, from Chapter 135 to KUNTI II. A particular region in ancient India. The
Sabha. and Vana Parvans and Udyoga Parva. upto warriors there were known as Kuntis. (Sabha Parva,
Chapter 137). Chapter 34, Verse 11).
KUNTI III 444 KURU IV
KUNTI III. An urban area in ancient India. (Sabha Svayambhuva Manu Uttanapada Dhruva fis{i
Parva, Chapter 14, Verse 27). Ripu Caksusa (Caksusa Manu) Kuru.
KUNTI IV. A King born in the Yayati dynasty. King Kuru was the grandfather of the reputed Vena and
KUNTIBHOJA. the great grandfather of emperor Prthu. Anga was the
1) General. A King of the Yadu dynasty; son of the father of Vena. Not much is said about this Kuru in
sister of Surasena, who was the father of Vasudeva and the Puranas. Kuru had ten brothers called Puru, Uru,
grandfather of Sri Krsna. (For genealogy see under Satadyumna, Tapasvi, Satyavak, Suci, Agnisthu,
Sri Krsna) Kuntibhoja was also the foster-father of
.
Adhiratha, Sudyumna and Abhimanyu. Kuru had
Kunti, the daughter of Surasena. (See Para 1, under by his wife Atreyi seven sons called Anga, Sumanas
Kunti 1). Svati, Kratu, Angiras, Gaya and Sibi, and to Anga
2) Other
information. (i) Sahadeva, during his was born by his wife Sunitha the son, who became
triumphal march over the southern kingdoms subjugat- reputed as Vena. Prthu was Vena's son. Prthu had
ed Kuntibhoja. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 31, Verse five sons called
Antardhana, Vadi, Suta, Magadha,
16). Palita. To Antardhana was born of his wife Sikhandini
(ii)
He
participated in the Rajasuya Yajna of Yudhi- a son called Havirdhana, to whom were born by his
sthira. (Sabha Parva, Chapter 34, Verse 12). wife Dhisana six sons called Pracinabarhis, Sukra, Gaya,
(iii)
The son of Kuntibhoja also became famous under Krsna, Vraja and Ajina. The above is the only inform-
the same name, and Purujit was the son of this ation available about this Kuru dynasty in the
Kuntibhoja. Both of them were uncles of the Puranas. (Visnu Purana, Part 1, Chapter 13),
Pandavas. (Karna Parva, Chapter 6, Verse 22). KURU II. Two sons, i.e. Uttanapada and Priyavrata
(iv) On the first day of the Svayambhuva Manu of his
Kuruksetra war Kunti- were born to wife Satarupa.
bhoja and his sons fought with Vinda and Anuvinda. One King Kuru born in the dynasty of Uttanapada
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 72), has been referred to above, i.e. Kuru I. Another King
(v) It was Kuntibhoja who occupied the netrasthana Kuru is noticed in Priyavrata's dynasty. To Priyavrata
(eye-position) of the Krauncavyuha set up by were born of his wife Barhi small fourteen sons called
Dhrstadyumna. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 50, Verse Agnidhra, Idhmajihva, Yajnabahu, Mahavira, Ghrta-
47)'.' prstha, Sava, Hiranyareta, Medhatithi, Vitihotra,
(vi) Kuntibhoja andSatanlka occupied the Pada- Kavi, Urjaspati, Uttama, Tamasa and Raivata. To
sthana (foot position) of the Makaravyuha on the Agnidhra by his wife Purvacitti were born nine sons
Pandava side. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 75, Verse 11). called Nabhi, Kimpurusa, Hari, llavrta, Ramyaka,
(vii) He Hiranmaya, Kuru, Bhadrasva and Ketumala. One
possessed a noble and high-bred horse.
(Drona Parva, Chapter 23, Verse 46). King Kuru appears among them but nothing more ;
(viii) In the great war he fought with Alambusa. than the fact that he married a woman called Narl is
(Drona Parva, Chapter 16, Verse 183). known about him. (Visnu Purana) .
KURA5IGA. One of the mountains which encircle was born in the Puru dynasty. His genealogy is given
Mahameru. (Devi Bhagavata, 8th Skandha) . hereunder. Descended from Visnu thus Brahma - :
KURA5IGAKSETRA. A holy place. He who bathes Atri - Candra - Budha - Pururavas - Ayus - Nahusa -
here and observes fast for three
nights will attain Yayati Puru - Janamejaya - Pracinvan - Pravira -
-
salvation. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25). Namasyu - Vitabhaya - Sundu - Bahuvidha - Sarhyati-
KURA515IU. (The Malayalam word for monkey). Rahovadi - Raudrasva - Matinara - Santurodha -
Kasyapa, the grandson of Brahma and son of Marlci Dusyanta - Bharata - Suhotra - Suhota - Gala - Garda-
married eight daughters of Daksaprajapati and one Suketu - Brhatksatra - Hasti - Ajamldha - Rksa -
of them Krodhavasa delivered ten daughters. Monkeys Sarhvarana - Kuru.
and lions were born from Hari, one of those ten To Kuru were born four sons called ParTksit, Sudha-
daughters. Thus they are brothers, and both are nus, Jahnu and Nisadhasva. The genealogy of the
called 'hari'. (Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Kuru Kings is as follows Sudhanus-Cyavana - Krti -
:
and sanctified on account of Kuru's tapas. (Adi Parva, Chapter 260, Verse 3).
(ix) Once a fierce fight
Parva, Chapter 94, Verse 80) . took place here (Kuruksetra)
(ii) While
Kuru was once ploughing a land in between Bhisma and ParaSurama. Paras urama wanted
Kuruksetra Indra appeared there, and they had a Bhisma to accept Amba, daughter of the King of Kasi
talk. (Salya Parva, Chapter 53 Verse 6) . as his wife.
(iii) While Kuru was once performing a yajna at (See under AMBA).
Kuruksetra, the river Sarasvati went there under the (x) Bhisma lay wounded on the bed of arrows here.
name Surenu (Oghavati) and watered the land. (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 119, Verse 92).
(Salya Parv'a, Chapter 38, Verses 26 and 27 i. (xi) Kuruksetra had been formerly
known as Samanta-
KURU V. One of the sages who visited Bhisma on pancaka. Since King Kuru made this place holy it
his bed of arrows. (Sand Parva, Chapter 47, Verse 8) . came be known as Kuruksetra thereafter.
to
KURU VI. A son born to Sarhvarana of Tapatl. The (xii) It was at Kuruksetra that the Panclavas and the
boy, following his naming and other consecratory rites, Kauravas waged a fierce war and it was here that Sri
grew up like fire in which was offered ha vis (ghee). Krsna taught Arjuna the Glta. (Bhisma Parva,
At ths age of ten he became omniscient. At the age Chapter 258, Verse 42) .
of sixteen he married Saudaminl, daughter of Suda- (xiii) Emperor Sudarsana, son of Agni, who was famous
man. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 21). for his hospitality, lived here. (AnuSasana Parva,
KURUJAISIGALAM (KURU). A kingdom in ancient Chapter 2, Verse 40) .
India of which Hastinapura was the capital. This KURUPANCALA (M) The combined name for Kuru
kingdom acquired the name Kurujangala from Kuru. and Pancala in ancient India. (Bhisma Parva Chapter
(Adi Parva. Chapter 94, Verse 49) . 9, Verse 56) .
KURUJIT. A king born in King Janaka's dynasty. Aja KURUTA. A Sage mentioned in Rgveda. He is also
was his father and Aristanemi his son. The genealogy known as Rjrasva. (For details see under Rjrasva).
fromjanaka to Kurujitis as follows Janaka Virada : KURUTIRTHA. A sacred place to the south of Taijasa-
Nandivardhana Suketu Devarata Brhaddhrta tirtha in Kuruksetra. He who takes a bath here will
Mahavira Dhrtaketu Haryasva Maru Pratisvaka- enter Brahmaloka. (Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 166).
Kraturatha Devamidha Vidhrta Mahadhrta KURUVAMSA. See under KURU.
Krtirata Maharoma Svarnaroma Prastharoma KURUVARNAKA. An urban area in ancient India.
Slradhvaja ( Janaka, the father of Sita) Kurudhvaja (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 56).
Dharmadhvaja Krtadhvaja Kes iketu Bhanuman KURUVARSA (M) The country ruled over by Kuru
Sakradyumna Suci Vanadhvaja Urjaketu -Aja came be called Kuruvarsam.
to
Kurujit. (Bhagavata, 9thSkandha). KURUVINDA. An urban area in ancient India. The
KURUKSETRA. people of Kuruvinda were called Kuruvindas. (Bhisma
1
)
. Made famous by the Maha.bha.rata,
General. Parva, Chapter 87, Verse 9) .
According to Pulastya even those who come into contact KUSA II. One of the two sons of Sri Rama, the other,
with the dust blown by the wind from this place meet being Lava.
with auspicious end. 1) Birth.
. To Sita forsaken by Rama a son called Lava
2). Other details, (i) Taksaka lived on the banks of was born while she was living at the asrama of Valmlki.
the river IksumatI in Kuruksetra (Adi Parva, Chapter One day Sita took Lava to the stream to bathe him,
31, Verse 139). and Valmlki, who did not know about it was upset not
(ii) Kuruksetra became a sacred place as king Kuru did to see the child in the asrama. He feared that it might
tapas there. (Adi Parva, Chapter 14, Verse 50) . have been eaten up by some animal, and fearing that
(iii) Two sons called Citrangada and Vicitravlrya were Sita might die when she missed the child he created a
born to Santanu of Satyavatl. Once while hunting in child with Kusa grass and laid it where Lava was lying
a forest Citrangada met a Gandharva, whose name before. When Sita returned to the asrama with Lava
also was Citrangada. The Gandharva got angry that after their bath Valmlki explained the whole situation
a man bore his name and so he killed Citrangada. The to Sita. Since the second child was created with Kusa
incident took place at Kuruksetra (Adi Parva, Chapter grass he was called Kusa, and he was made the second
101, Verses 8 and 9). son of Sita ( Uttara Ramayana and Kathasaritsagara,
(iv) Sunda and Upasunda, who conquered all the Alankaravatllambaka, Taranga 1).
worlds lived in Kuruksetra (Adi Parva, Chapter 209 2) Kusa went to Ayodhya. Sri Rama decided to conduct
Verse 27) . an Asvamedha yajna. was ordained that the emperor,
It
(v) Before the Khandava forest was burnt down who conducted a yajna should have his wife. As Sita
Taksaka left the place and went to Kuruksetra and had been abandoned, Rama had no wife for the pur-
lived there. (Adi Parva, Chapter 226, Verse 4) .
poses of the yajna. It was laid down that in the absence
(vi) During their life of exile in the forest the Pandavas of the wife a statue of hers may be made with palasa
visited Kuruksetra (Vana Parva, Chapter 5, Verse 1). wood. But, Vasistha decreed that a statue of Sita
(vii) King Mandhata once conducted a yajna within might be made with gold. The yajna was to be held
the boundaries of Kuruksetra. (Vana Parva, Chapter in the Naimisa forest. During the triumphal tour of
126, Verse 45) .
Satrughna with the yajnika horse he reached the banks
(viii) The reputed sage Mudgala lived here. (Vana of the river Tatnasa near the airama of Valmlki where
KUSA II 446 KUSADVIPA
Lava and Kusa captured the horse. Satrughna could dhanva Devanlka Rksa Pariyatra Vindorala
not defeat Lava and KuSa, and they routed the addi- Vajranabha Khagana Vldhrti Hiranyanabha
tional force also which arrived under the leadership of Pusya Dhruva Sudarsana Agnipurna- Slghra
Laksmana to help Satrughna. Then Valmlki intervened Maru. The solar dynasty was annihilated at the advent
and the horse was returned to Satrughna. Afterwards, of Kaliyuga (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha) .
Valmlki, Sita and Lavakusas also attended Sri Rama's KUSA III. A king born in the Kuru dynasty. To Kuru,
yajna where Lava and Kusa recited the poem Rama- who built Kuruksetra was born a son called Sudhanva,
yana composed by Valmlki. Rama recognised the boys and to him was born Suhotra, who became the father
and they were made to live in Ayodhya. Thus did of Cyavana. Suhotra begot of another wife Girika seven
Kusa visit Ayodhya. sons called Brhadratha, Kusa, Yadu, Pratyagraha, Bala,
The Kathasaritsagara tells the following story about Matsyakala and Vira. Kusa was one of the seven sons.
Kusa's visit to Ayodhya. (Agni Purana, Chapter 78) .
Valmlki duly performed the thread -wearing ceremony KUSABINDU. An urban region in ancient India.
of Lava and Kusa and taught them, even in their very (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 56).
childhood, all arts and sciences including the secrets KUSAClRA. A river the .water of which Indians of
about divine arrows. The boys one day killed a deer in ancient days used to drink. (Bhlsma Parva. Chapter
the asrama and worshipped with its flesh thelinga, which 9, Verse 24).
Valmlki used to worship daily, and as a result of that KUSADHARA. A river the water from which Indians
the sage became ill. SitadevI requested for penance for used to drink.(Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 24).
the action of her children, and Valmlki said that Lava KUSADHVAJA I. A brahmin, son of Brhaspati. Penni-
should bring golden lotus flowers from Vaisravana's less and poor, the brahmin once sought the help of
pond and flowers of Kalpakavrksa from his garden, and King Salva. The miserly king did not give him any-
that Lava and Kusa together should worship the thing. Thereafter he began worshipping Bhagavati
Sivalinga with those flowers. Lava then went to mount with the object of making some money. While medita-
Kailasa and after killing many yaksas collected the ting upon Bhagavati a girl emerged out of his mouth.
flowers. On his way back he rested for some time at the She was named Devavatl. When she came of age an
foot of a tree. Just then Laksmana, who was on the asura called Sambhu desired to marry her; but Kusa-
look-out for a human being for the naramedha ( human dhvaja did not agree to the proposal. Enraged at the
sacrifice) of Sri Rama, also reached the spot. He refusal Sambhu killed Kusadhvaja while the latter was
decided to take Lava captive with him, and they fought asleep one night. But Devavatl cursed and reduced
with each other for some time. At last Lakmana the asura into ashes. Then she took herself to penance
took Lava captive by using mohanastra (arrow which to secure Mahavisnu as her husband when Ravana
makes the opponent unconscious) and took him to happened to come there, and he tried to make her his
Ayodhya. Sita was pained that Lava had not returned wife. But, she repelled all his attempts at which he
yet, and Valmiki with his divine vision understood the caught hold of her by the hair. She escaped by cutting
reason for his absence. He deputed Kusa to Ayodhya her hair. She then immolated herself in burning fire.
to bring back with him Lava somehow or other. When It was this Devavatl, who was, in her next life, born as
Kusa reached Ayodhya, Sri Rama was conducting the Sita, daughter of King Janaka (Uttara Ramayana).
Asvamedha yajna, and Kusa, successfully confronting a KUSADHVAJA II. Brother of King Janaka, father of
number of people, got into the yajna ground. In the Sita. He lived on the banks of the river Iksumatl.
combat that ensued between Kusa and Laksmana the (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Canto 70) . See under
latter was defeated, as he could not defeat Kua due to JANAKA I.
the greatness of Valmlki. When Sri Rama asked KUSADHVAJA III. A King. The following story about
Kusa who he was he replied that he was the brother him quoted from the Skanda Purana.
is
of Lava and that he had heard from his mother Sita Kusadhvaja was a monkey in his former birth, and as he
that both of them were the sons of Sri Rama. Rama had then performed the auspicious action of swinging
was overjoyed to hear that and he covered the boys Siva in a cradle throughout day and night, in the next
with kisses. Sita also was brought down from the asrama birth he was born as King Kusadhvaja. One day the
of Valmlki, and all of them lived very happily. (Katha- King abducted the daughter of the Sage Agnivesa when
saritsagara, Alarhkaravatllambaka, Taranga 1 ) . she was bathing. The Sage cursed the King into the
3). Kusa's reign. Following the demise of Laksmana Sri form of a vulture. He was promised redemption from
Rama divided the country between Kusa and Lava. A the curse that he would regain his human form on the
city called Kusavatl was built in the Kosala Kingdom day on which he helped Indradyumna.
and Kua was crowned King thereof. Thirty two out KUSADVlPA. One of the the seven islands. Kuga island
of the sixtyfour aksauhinis of the kings of the solar is rich in pearls. (Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 13). Jambu,
dynasty, four out of the eight ministers and half of the Plaksa, Salmall, Kua, Kraunca, Saka and Puskara are
movable property were allotted to Kua. Lava was the seven islands (Saptadvlpas) . Salmall island has
crowned king of north Kosala where a city called double the area of Plaksa. Each island, in this order,
Saravati was built for him, and the other half of the is twice as large as the preceding one. (Devi Bhaga-
army, ministers etc. became his share. While Ku^a and vata, 8th Skandha) .
Lava were ruling the country thus, Sri Rama immolated Kuga island encircles the sea of Sura (Wine.) Jyotisman
himself in the depths of the river Sarayu (Uttara was the chief over the island. He had seven sons called
Ramayana). Udbhida, Venuman, Vairatha, Lambana, Dhrti, Prabha-
4) KuSa's successors. Descended from Sri Rama thus:
. kara and Kapila. The Subcontinents, are called by
Kusa Aditi Nisadha Nabhas Pundarlka Ksema- their names. In Kusa island, along with Daityas and
KUSADYA 447 KUSIKA I
Danavas, Men, Devas, Gandharvas, Kinnaras and asvamedha yajna. (Bhisma Parva,
the benefits of an
Kimpurusas live. There are four castes of people there Chapter Verse 21). It was here that Ditidevi, wife
12,
called Damis, Susmis, Snehas and Mandehas, all of of Kasyapa did tapas for a son who would be equal to
them leading righteous lives. The above four castes Indra. Again it was here that Indra entered into the
form the Brahmin, Ksatriya, Vaisya and Sudra people womb of Did and cut into pieces the child in the
in the island. There are six mountains there called womb. Kusaplava became famous because of the above
Vidruma, Hemasaila, Dyutiman, Puspavan, Kusesaya happenings. (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda, Canto
and Harimandira. There are also seven rivers there 46).
called Dhutapapa, Siva, Pavitra, Sammati, Vidyut. KUSASTAMBA. A sacred centre in the Kusa island.
Ambha and Mahi. These rivers annihilate sins. There He who bathes here attains a place in heaven surround-
are also other small rivers there. There is a Kusastamba ed by Deva women. See under KuSadvIpa. (Anusa-
(a cluster of Kusa grass) in the island. The stamba sana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 28).
which glows like fire illuminates the island by its KUSASTHALl. The ancient name of Dvarakapuri;
light and lustre. (Bhagavata) The Kusa island is
. an island. It was emperor Revata, son of Anarta, the
encircled by the Ghrta ocean. (Visnu Purana Part II, grandson of Vaivasvata Manu, who first built a city in
Chapter 4) . Kusasthal! and ruled the country. Their genealogy:
KUSADYA. A Kingdom in ancient India. (Bhisma Descended from Visnu thus: Brahma Marici KaSyapa
Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 44). Vivasvan Vaivasvata Manu Saryati ( Sayyati)
KUSALA. A holy place near mount Kraunca. (Bhlsma Anarta- Revata. Certain Puranas state that it was
Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 21 ). Anarta, who first built forts at Kus'asthali. It would not
KUSALAVA(S). Kusa and Lava, the two sons of Sita. be incorrect to say that Anarta built forts in this city
(For details see under Kusa) . first founded by his son Revata. The city was sunk in
KUSALYA. A holy place in ancient India. (Bhlsma the sea after a few years. Afterwards the region re-
Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 4 ) . mained as a forest for long years. It was later on that
KUSAMBA I. The third son of
Uparicaravasu. KuSamba Sri Krsna built Dvaraka there. Following Krsna's
is also known of Manivaha. Vasu had five sons called death the Yadava dynasty got annihilated and the
.
Brhadratha, Kusamba, Mavella, Yadu and Rajanya. region was again swallowed by the ocean. Dvaraka is
KUSAMBA II. believed to have been an island situated in the sea to
1
)
General. A
son of Kusa. The city he built was the west of Gujarat. Even today there is a place called
called KauSambi. (See under Kusa). Dvaraka on the coast of India to the west of Gujarat.
2) Other information, (i) Kusamba had a daughter (Devi Bhagavata, 7th Skandha and Bhagavata, 10th
called CarvangI, who was married by Bhadrasrenya, Skandha).
the solar King. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter 2). KUSASVA. An Iksvaku King son of King Sahadeva
(ii) Two
sons, Sakra and Gadhi were born to Kusamba and father of King Somadatta. (Valmiki Ramayana,
and Gadhi was born a daughter, Satyavati. VisVa-
to Balakanda, Canto 47) .
mitra was Gadhi 's son. (Brahmanda Purana, Chapter KUSAVAN. A deep region in the lake called Ujjanaka
57). near Manasa lake. (Vana Parva, Chapter 130, Verse
This statement is not quite correct. Certain other 18).
Puranas maintain that Gadhi, the father of Visvamitra KUSAVARTAI. SonofKingRsabha, Kusavarta had
was the son of Kusanabha, who was the son of Kusika nineteen brothers, viz. Bharata, llavarta, Brahmavarta,
and brother of KuSamba. (See under Kuganabha). Aryavarta, Malaya, Bhadraketu, Sena, Indrasprk,
KUSANABHA. A son born to Kusa of Vaidarbhi. (For Vidarbha, Klkata, Kavi, Hari, Antariksa, Prabuddha,
Genealogy see under Visvamitra) Sage Kusa had four
.
Pippalayana, Avirhotra, Dramida, Camasa and
sons, namely Kusamba, Kusanabha, Asurtarajasa and Karabhajana. (Bhagavata, 5th Skandha) .
Vasu, and Kusanabha built Mahodayapura and lived KUSAVARTA II. A holy place in ancient India.
there. One hundred daughters were born to him of his (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 13).
wife Ghrtaci. Vayubhagavan once asked the girls to
KUSAVATl. A city in Devaloka, where the Devas
marry him at which proposal they laughed at him in once conducted a mantra yajna. It was on his way to
derision. He cursed them and made them hunch-backed
participate in this yajna that Agastya cursed Kubera
ugly women, and Kusanabha felt very sorry about and his attendant Maniman. (Vana Parva, Chapter
of his daughters.
this cruel fate
161, Verse 54).
To Somada, daughter of a Gandharva woman called
tjrmila, had been born a son, Brahmadatta, due to the
KUSESAYA. One of six great mountains in the Kusa
island. Durdharsa, Dyutiman, Puspavan, Kusesaya,
mental power of the sage Culi. Kusanabha gave in
Kumuda and Hari are the six mountains. (Bhlsma
marriage his hundred daughters to Brahmadatta, and
Parva, Chapter 12, Verses 10 and 11).
they were cured of their hunch at the touch of Brahma-
datta and became their previous beautiful selves. KUSlDA A sage belonging to the order of Vyasa's
I.
and Kusa, who was so pleased by the yajna blessed him KUSlDA II. To live on the interest of money lent to
to have a son called Gadhi. Visvamitra was the son others. Agriculture, breeding of cows, commerce and
of this Gadhi. Visvamitra had also a sister
Satyavati,
Kusida are the professions ordained for brahmins in
whom Rclka wedded. (Valmiki Ramayana, Balakanda emergency. (Agni Purana, Chapter 152).
Cantos 32-35) .
KUSlKA I. A very famous monarch in the Puru dynasty.
KUSAPLAVA (KUSAPLAVANAM). A holy place. He He was the grandfather of Visvamitra and father of
who bathes and spends three nights there will derive Gadhi.
KUSIKA II 448 LAKSMANA
1) Descended
Genealogy. from Mahavisnu thus; world that he and Siva were one and the same,
Brahma Candra - Budha - Pururavas - Ayus -
- Atri -
and also the greatness of Agastya, the idol of Visnu
Nahusa -
Yayati - Puru - Janamejaya - Pracinvan - was all on a sudden changed into a Siva
Linga. Since
Pravlra - Namasyu - Vltabha-a - Sundu - Bahuvidha- then the
temple has remained a Siva Temple.
Samyati - Rahovadi - Raudra^va - Matinara - Santu- (Skanda Purana).
rodha - Dusyanta - Bharata - Suhotra - Brhatputra - KUVALAYAPlDA. Name of the elephant posted at
Aj mldha jahnu - Balakas'va - Kusika.
- the gates of
Mathurapurl to kill Sri Krsna and
2) Indra as son. Kusika began tapas for a son who Balabhadrarama, who went there to witness the
would be equal to Indra and could not be killed by dhanuryajna. But, they killed the elephant.
others. Pleased with his tapas Indra voluntarily took Rangadvararh samasadya
birth as Kusika's son. Gadhi was that son; in fact he Tasmin nagamavasthitam /
was an incarnation of Indra. (Santi Parva, Chapter Apagyat Kuvalayapldarh
49). Krsno s mbasthapracoditam
KUSIKA II. A sage who came to see Pramadvara (Bhagavata, Dasama Skandha, Chapter 48, Verse 2).
who died of snake poison (Adi Parva, Chapter 8, Verse KUVlRA. A river. (Bhlsma Parva Chapter 27).
25) On his way to Hastinapura he saw
. Sri Krsna. KUYAVA. An asura referred to in the Rgveda.
(Udyoga Parva, Chapter 83, Verse 27) .
(Rgveda, Mandala 1, Anuvaka 15, Sukta 104).
KUS.IKASRAMA. A holy iiSrama on the banks o.
the river Kosi where the sage called Kusika is believed
to have lived. (Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Verse 131) .
Mahameru. (Devi Bhagavata, 8th Skandha) . LAKSAGRHA. The house of lac (a kind of red dye).
KUSUMBHI. A forest near Dvaraka. (Sabha Parva, (See for details under Arakkillam).
Chapter 38). LAKSANA I. Daughter of Duryodhana. Wife of
KtFTA. One of the pugilists deputed by Karhsa to kill Samba. (See for details under Samba) .
Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 15). included in the story under 'Rama' only a short
KUTHARA. A naga born in Dhrtarastra's family. It description is given below :
When the coronation of Sri Rama was about to take 1) Origin. Devi originated from the left side of
place, Kaikeyl demanded of Dasaratha, on the strength Paramatma (Supreme Being) The beautiful Devi by
.
of the two boons granted to her on a previous occasion, a command from the Supreme Being divided herself
to send Sri Rama to the forests for fourteen years and into two enchanting damsels both equal in figure,
crown Bharata her son as King. Das'aratha was splendour, age, majesty, adornment and love. One of
compelled to accede to her request and so Sri Rama these was LaksmldevI and the other Radhadevl. That
went to the forests. Sita and Laksmana accompanied born of the left was Rama and that of the right, Radha.
him. Laksmana during the fourteen years of their Radha wedded herself to the two-handed Sri Krsna
exile followed his brother Rama like a shadow. and LaksmI also wanted the same person and so Bhaga-
Laksmana cut off the breasts and nose of Surpanakha, van himself became two, Sri Krsna from the left side
the demoness who made amorous overtures to them. as a two-handed person and as four-handed
Laksmana acted promptly and bravely when the Visnu from the right side. (9th Skandha. Devi
notorious trio, Khara, Diisana and Trisiras attacked Bhagavata) .
them and he was responsible for the slaughter of the 2) Different incarnations of Laksmi. LaksmI had many
three. Ravana, coming to know of that, carried
away incarnations and she had been on earth in different
Sita to Lanka. forms at different times. They are given below:
Grief-stricken, Rama and Laksmana roamed about in (i) Birth from the ocean of milk. Once the Devas
the forests searching for Sita. At last they came to became aged and afflicted with rugosity and
Sugriva with whom they made an alliance. Rama and grey hairs by a curse of Durvasas. Indra lost his
Laksmana got back for Sugriva his kingdom of majesty and was ousted from Svarga. Svargalaksmi
Kiskindha and Sugriva in return helped Rama and deserted Devaloka and went to Vaikuntha and merged
Laksmana Ravana. Accompanied by an army
to fight with Mahalaksmi.
led by Sugriva Rama and Laksmana
went to Lanka The Devas were greatly aggrieved on account of this
and defeating Ravana took back Sita to Ayodhya. Sri plight of theirs and they went to Satyaloka and
Rama was crowned King and Laksmana helped his appealed to Brahma to find a solution to their difficult-
brother in his duties. When there arose a scandal ies. Brahma was helpless in the matter and so they
about Sita from the people, Sri Rama asked Laksmana all together went to Vaikuntha and represented their
to take Sita away to the forest and leave her there. In grievances before Mahavisnu. Visnu smiled and told
the Asvamedha conducted by Sri Rama, Laksmana Mahalaksmi thus "You go and be born as Ksira-
:
led the sacrificial horse and the horse was blocked arid sagarakanyaka using a part of your inherent power
captured by Lava and Kus"a and Laksmana fought and do give relief to the Devas." Accordingly when
against them. the Devas conducted the churning of the ocean of milk
VVhen the purpose of the incarnation of Rama was (Kslrabdhimathana) Mahalaksmi, the goddess of
over, god of Death in the garb of a sage approached beauty, wealth and prosperity arose from the ocean as
Sri Rama for a private talk. Rama and the Kslrasagarakanyaka (Daughter of the ocean of milk)
sage were
closeted in a room and Laksmana was asked to
keep and blessed the Devas and put a Vanamala ( garland
watch over the door with instructions not to allow of wild flowers) on Mahavisnu. The Devas got back
anybody inside. After some time sage Durvasas all their lost wealth and prosperity and they, on going
came there and Laksmana entered the room to give to Devaloka, worshipped LaksmldevI properly. (9th
his brother the information of his arrival. Rama was Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
angry and abandoned Laksmana and, feeling repen- (Ii) Mahalaksmi
was born as a mare. (See under
tant later, Sri Rama jumped into the river and drowned Ekavira, Para 2) .
Bala Kanda, Valmlki Ramayana). to the sage Bhrgu of Khyati. When Mahavisnu
LAKSMAIMA II. A very brave son of Duryodhana. He incarnated as Surya, LaksmI rose up from the lotus.
was a great archer. The Mahabharata
gives the When Visnu became Paras urama, Laksmi became
following information about him. the earth. When Mahavisnu incarnated as Sri Rama,
(i) In the
great battle Abhimanyu defeated this LaksmI became Sita and when Visnu was born as Krsna
Laksmana. (Sloka 32, Chapter 73, Bhlsma Parva) . LaksmI became Radha. Thus whenever and wherever
(ii) Laksmana fought against Ksatradeva. (Sloka 49, Mahavisnu changed his form, Mahalaksml also chang-
Chapter 14, Drona Parva). ed hers to form part of the changed life. ( Chapter 9,
(iii) Abhimanyu killed him in the battle-field. (Sloka Amsa 1, Visnu Purana).
1
7, Chapter 46, Drona Parva) .
3) Mahalaksmi cursed Visnu. Once Mahalaksmi cursed
(iv) After the great war when once, at the request of Mahavisnu, her husband, that his head would drop off
KuntI and Gandharl, Vyasa by his yogic powers from his body. (See under Cital).
arrayed the dead warriors for KuntI and Gandharl to 4) Two forms of Laksmi. Mahalaksmi has two forms,
see, this Laksmana was also among them. (Sloka 11, Visnu-priya Laksmi andRajyalaksmi. The former is the
Chapter 32, Asramavasika Parva). embodiment of chastity and virtuousness. The latter
LAKSMAiyA. One of the queens of Sri Krsna. goes about courting Kings. RajyalaksmI is fickle and
(Chapter 33, Sabha Parva, Daksinatyapatha) .
unsteady. This Laksmi enters all places where virtue
LAKSMI I. Consort of Mahavisnu. and charity are found and as soon as these two vanish
LAKSMI II 450 LASIKA
from any place Rajyalaksmi will also vanish from that Manavcdan Raja of Kozhikode Palace named Vilasini
place. is tire Other commentaries named Varavarnini,
best.
5) Lakfmi in cow-dung. The people of Bharata consider Cintatilaka and Vyakrti are also worth mentioning
cow dung as very sacred and there is a story in the 82nd LALAliHAKSAM. A hell. (See under Kala I).
Chapter of AnusTisana Parva as to how cow-dung be- LALAMA. A division among horses. The white patch on
came so sacred :
the forehead of a horse is also called Lalama and so
horses with lalama arc called Lalamas. (Sloka 13, Chap-
( )ncc a herd of cows was grazing
ground in a large grassy
ter 13, Drona Parva).
when Laksmi happened way. Mahalaksmi
to pass that
was pleased at the cows and bade them ask for any boon LALA'l'AKSA. A country of ancient India. The King of
they wanted. The cows were prosperity incarnate and country was picsent at the yajiia of Yudhis(hira with
this
contented and they rejected the offer of Laksmi and very many valuable: presents. (Sloka 17, .Chapter 51,
when pressed again by her, said that they would like to Sabha Parva) .
have prosperity deposited in their dung also. Maha- LALITA. Sec under PUNDARlKAMUKHA.
laksmi did so and so even today it is believed that the LALITA. A Gandharva. This Gandharva was born by
embedded with a curse and by observing a vrata called Kamada Kkadai-'I
cowdung is
prosperity.
he obtained relief from the curse and became Gandharva
6) . Other details :
a lotus in her right hand and a Bilva fruit in her left LALITTHA. A country of ancient Bharata. The people
hand. (Chapter 50, Agni Purana) . of the place were called Lalitthas. They fought on the
(iii) Laksmidevi stays in the court of Brahma also. side of the Kauravas in the great battle. Lalitthas boast-
(Sloka 41, Chapter 11, Sabha Parva). ed that they would kill Arjuna in the big battle. The
LAKSMI II. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. She was King of the Lalitlhas attacked Abhimanyu. Arjuna
married to Dharmadeva. (Sloka 14, Chapter 66, Adi killed them all in the battle. (Sloka 47, Chapter 5,
Karna Parva).
Parva).
LAKSMlDASA. A Sanskrit who was
LAMBA. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. Asikni wife of
poet the author
of SukasandeSa. Daksaprajapati got a hundred daughters and ten of them
were married to Dharmadeva. Lamba was one of them.
I
)
. Birth. He was born in the former state of Cochin in 15, Aiiisa 1, Visnu Purana).
(Chapter
Karirigampilly Mana. This Mana (house) was near the LAMBANl. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 18,
temple of Trpputamarigala in Vellarappilly in Cochin Chapter 46, Salya Parva) .
dasa shouted the meaning from outside. door A 2) History. Visvakanna constructed a magnificent city
opened and a voice enquired in Tamil "Are you on the top of the mountain Trikuta for the use of
Karingampilly ?" When he said yes they were extremely Kubera. Kubera lived there adored and worshipped by
all. One day Kubera travelled by air in an aeroplane of
happy and took him inside and treated him with
his. Kaikasi, mother of Ravana saw that and she became
respect.
Works. No major work other then SukasandeSa jealous. She called her son to her side and said that
has
4) at any cost the city of Lanka on the mount Trikuta
been found. Two small poems are available. should be captured and given to her. Ravana along
Sukasandcga has been written on the model of the with his brothers went to the Himalayas and performed
famous Meghasandes'a of Kalidasa. Many commentaries nenance there and obtained several boons from Siva. Then
on this have come to light; of these the one written by iivana conducted a victory march as an arch-oppom u
LA&K.ALAKSMI 451 LA VANA II
ofall living forces and drove away Kubcra from Lanka Vijayalak.sml accordingly was born in Lanka and
and took possession of Lanka as the place of his abode. became the watch-girl of Ravana 's palace.
He took along with him all the demons residing in 2) Release from the curse. Hanuman corning to Lanka
Piitalaloka. in search of Sita tried to find an opening through
3). The design of Laitka. Visvakarrna, the celebrated which to enter Lanka. Then he saw a huge tower-gate
architect designed the beautiful Laiika. and the supreme on the northern side of the mountain Suvelagiri.
building ability of Maya brought into form the enchant- When he reached the gate he found it closed. 'I In-
ing city. On the lop of Trikiita was the all important mighty monkey beat hard on the door and the strong
Navaralnasrriga and on a spacious plateau on its lop door burst into two and fell on to the Iloor. Instanlly a
stood the majestic city of Lanka. In the centre was the ferocious woman of enormous size rushed to the gate
ten-storeyed palace of Ravana and around it in eight
with a piercing roar and blocked it. Hanuman found
different places stood the nine-storeyed buildings of the the situation dangerous and so gave her a powerful
great ministers of Ravaiia.
The nine edifices were like blow and felled her. She then very politely asked
the Navagrahas (nine planets) of Lanka. Each of the nine Hanuman who he was and Hanuman revealed his
edifices was built wilh one of the nine gems and the royal identity and told her the purpose of his visit. Lanka-
palace in the centre was built by using all the nine gems. laksmi then look leave of Hanuman and leaving
Even the sun avoided passing over these buildings and Lanka went to Sri Rama and worshipped him. Rama
blessed her and she returned to Satyaloka and started
changed his path either a bit to the north or to the
south making what is known as the Daksinayana and doing her duties as before. (Sundara Kanda, Kamba
Ultarayana. (Yuddha Kancla, Kamba Ramayana). Ramayana ) .
Balakhilyas were performing penance. The branch on LATA. A particular division of the Ksatriyas. Because
which Garuda sat with his food sagged and before it a set of the Ksatriyas showed jealousy towards the
broke Garuda took away the elephant and tortoise Brahmins they became La{as. (Sloka 1 7, Chapter 35,
and deposited them on the mountain Gandhamadana Anusasana Parva) .
near the ocean. The branch broke and fell into the ocean LATAVESTA. A mountain situated on the southern
and the city of Lanka was built on the branch and that side of Dvaraka. It had five colours and so resembled
was why the ancient people believed there was no sand the Indracapa. (Chapter 33, Daksinatya Patha, Sabha
in Lanka. Parva).
5). Other details. LAUHITYA I. A country of Puranic fame. This
(i) Sahadeva sent Gha(otkaca to collect tribute from country of out-castes was conquered by Bhima and he
the King of Lanka for the Rajasuyayajna of Dharma- took from there different kinds of diamonds. (Sloka
pulra. (Chapter 31, Daksinatyapatha) .
26, Chapter 30, Sabha Parva).
(ii) The people of Lanka attended the Rajasuyayajna of LAUHITYA A sacred place constructed by the
II.
Dharmaputra and took charge of serving rice in the powers of Sri Rama. If one bathes in a pond there one
feast. (Sloka 23, Chapter 53, Vana Parva). would become golden in colour. (Sloka 2, Chapter
(iii) Hanuman once burnt the city of Lanka with a fire 85, Vana Parva and Chapter 25, Anuasana Parva).
from his tail. (See under RAMA). LAVA. A son of Sita. (See under KM:' a II for more
(iv) Itwas Brahma who gave Lanka at first to Kubera. details) .
(Sloka 16, Chapter 274, Vana Parva). LAVAIVA(M). A hell. (See under Kala I) .
(v) After the death of Ravana, Vibhisana was crowned LAVAIVA I. A demon. He was the son of a demon
the King of Lanka (Sloka 5, Chapter 291, Vana Parva). called Madhu. Madhuvana on the banks of the river
LA5IKALAKSMI. A Devi who was relieved of her curse Kalindi was the abode of this demon. This demon was
by a hard slroke of hand by Hanuman.
his a great oppressor of theDevas and Satrughna had to kill
him. Satrughna then constructed a beautiful city there
1). How she came to Lanka. LankalaksmI was Vijaya-
laksmi in her previous birlh. She was the watch-girl of and lived there. In recognition of the increasing pros-
the treasury of Brahma and one day finding her negli- perity of the city it was named Madhura. After the
death of Satrughna his two sons lived there. (4th
gent of her duties Brahma cursed her "Go to the earth
and be the watch-girl of the palace-gate tower of Skandha, Devi Bhagavata) .
Ravana". She begged for relief and Brahma said, "Dur- LAVA1VA II. A King who was
a grandson of Haris -
1
ing the incarnation of Visnu as Rama his wife Sita will candra. He once conducted a Rajasuya in his
be carried away by Ravana and Hanuman will come in imagination and became a Candala. (story in
search of her to Lanka. You will then block the way of JnanavasisUia). This story was narrated to Sri Rama
that mightly monkey and he will then strike you down by Vasistha to teach him the truth that man docs not
by a fierce blow of his hand. You will be then released realise that this whole universe is an illusion only
from the curse and come back to me." because of his ignorance.
LAVAJVA n 452 LA VAN A II
Lavana was the King of Uttarapindava, a country of girl coming with a pot of rice. I approached her and
great fame. He was the grandson of Hariscandra and asked for some rice. She did not pay any attention to
wished to earn fame by performing a Rajasuya yaga my request and moved on. I followed her and she
as Hariscandra had done. Lavana decided to perform said she would give me rice if I promised to
marry
the yaga in his mind only. He made grand prepara- her. In despair I agreed to her condition and she was
tions for the yajna. He invited the Rtviks and after pleased with my reply. She gave me half of the rice
invoking the devas inflamed the sacrificial fire. For one and curry she was carrying to her father and also some
year he observed yaga like that and in the end gave lemon-juice to drink. After taking that food I rested
gifts to the brahmins and the poor. It was all an for a while.
imaginary performance that the King had in the Her name was Harakeyuri. As soon as her father
course of a single day when he indulged in a reverie. came from the fields she told him everything. The
In the evening as usual he continued his day to day candala was immensely pleased to hear about our
duties. marriage and all of us went to their hut. The scene I
saw at the hut was astonishing. At one place was the
One who performs Rajasuya will have to bear woes and
flesh of boars, horses, fowl and crows in a
sorrows for a period of twelve years and since Lavana heap and on
the intestines of animals hanging from ropes sat birds
had performed it mentally, Iridra sent his agent to
pecking at them. In the hands of children there were
give Lavana worries mentally. Indra's agent appeared
in the court of King Lavana in the guise of a magician. pieces of raw meat and flies hovered round them. The
hut presented a disgusting atmosphere and yet I
The magician bowing before the King with awe said,
entered and sat on a leaf and my marriage with
"Lord, I shall show you a magic. See it sitting on
Harakeyuri was conducted there. The celebrations of
your throne. It will be as astounding as if seeing moon the marriage lasted for seven days and all these days
rise on the earth".
people danced and shouted amidst loud noises of
Saying this the magician took a bundle of peacock- drumming in a hilarious mood of drunkenness.
feaihers and waved it against the face of the King. Eight months passed by very soon and Harakeyuri
That bundle was capable of producing different became pregnant. She delivered a girl first and soon
objects and visions. The King fixed his eyes on the we had two or three children more. I had to do many
several glittering spots on the feathers and soon he cruel and nasty deeds to feed my family and gradually
saw a relative of the Saindhava King approaching the I became old.
My hair became grey.
court. Behind him was a beautiful horse. Holding the At that time there occurred a great famine and those
horse by the reins the new-comer addressed the residing in the forests were put to great trouble. There
King thus. "Lord, this horse is as good as UccaisSravas was no water to drink as all ponds and lakes went
and it has been sent by the King of Sindhu to be Some of us
dry. migrated to the vicinity of the
presented to you. Best things should be given to the Vindhya mountain where there were plenty of water-
best people and only then the value of the thing fountains. A few committed suicide. We also left the
would be correctly understood." The magician who place and started walking, taking the children also
was standing near-by supported the statement of the along with us. After some time we sat under a palm
new-comer. He said "Lord, what he says is true. This tree completely exhausted. My wife began to weep
horse has wonderful powers. Take a tour of all the
profusely. She then kissed her children and lay down
worlds riding on this horse". The King sat staring at and started sleeping. Thirsty and hungry my children
the horse and he sat thus for an hour and a half. The
lay there awaiting death. Unable to witness the scene
entire court was perplexed. I
jumped up from there deciding to commit suicide
After some time the King awoke from his meditation myself. Suddenly my vision faded and I was able to
and looking at his courtiers in wonder he said thus : see this court and you all. This is the work of that
"I shall tell you what happened to me during the magician".
short period I was sitting in meditation. While I was The courtiers sat dumb-founded at the incredible
looking at the peacock feathers of the magician I felt story of the King. Suddenly the magician disappeared.
a desire to go hunting riding on this horse. So I went The magician after making the King experience the
to the forest alone riding on this horse. Very quickly woes of twelve years in a very short time left for the
the horse took me a long distance deviating from the court of Indra.
main path and I soon found myself in the dark depths Next morning King Lavana in the hope of seeing the
of a huge forest. By the time we reached that forest place and people of his dream in reality near the
my mind and body were equally tired and still we mountain Vindhya started with his retinue on the
went on moving till evening came. Somehow we false pretext that he was going to conduct a victory
crossed the forest and reached Jangala. There I found march When he entered a big forest he met with many
a cluster of lemon trees and to ease my body I caught familiar places and hunters of his dream. Then he saw
hold of a creeper hanging from one of the lemon trees. the hut where he had lived. The same men and women
As I did so, to my horror, I found the horse running were there all around. Then e saw an old lady
!
away from me and leaving me alone. Tired by the lamenting thus: "Oh my dear sons, where did you go
day's travel I sat at a place and dozed. Darkness was from my lap ? My dear daughter, have you forsaken
creeping in and soon the whole place was in complete me ? Oh prince, you came here abandoning all luxury
darkness. It was very cold also. Somehow I spent the and the beautiful girls of your palace and married
night and when morning came, with hopes I walked my daughter. But God did not allow even her to be
around the place. The place was still and no living your permanent wife. The river of life has to take
thing was in sight. As I roamed about I saw a forest- worthless and mean paths forced by circumstances. A
LA VAN A HI 453 LIJSlGAPURAlVA
very virtuous King had to come and live with a Sudyumna had become great by executing the law
candala girl." correctly.
Hearing this the King went to her and asked her all de- LIKHITA II. An evil-natured priest of Haihsadhvaja,
tails. When she repeated the story the king knew that the the King of Campakapurl. Safikha his brother also was
lady was the mother of his candala wife. The King and the King's priest. Harhsadhvaja blocked the sacrificial
ministers were surprised to find that his vision was horse of the Asvamedha yajna of Dharmaputra and
real and within that short period of his meditation he
Arjuna attacked the King to get the horse released. To
had lived a life of years. This perplexed the King. mobilise an army the King announced that each and
He then gave the old lady whatever she wanted and every soldier should assemble at the place by day-break
after consoling her started for the palace thinking the next morning and added that those who disobeyed
about the wonderful happenings and mysteries of life. would be put in burning oil.
LAVAlVfA III. A demon who lived in the island of By early morning the next day the soldiers excepting
all
Ramamyaka. He had come to the island long before the son of the King arrived at the palace. Sudhanva,
the serpents came to that place. The serpents saw the King's son, was a general of the army and his
him when they went there to live. (Sloka 2, Chapter absence annoyed the King. Hamsadhvaja was hesitat-
27, Adi Parva) ing whether his son should be punished when Likhita
.
LAVAliTA IV. Another King of the family of Haris"- advised the King to execute the punishment.
candra. Yogavasistha says that this King had partici- The King put Sudhanva into a big cauldron of boiling
pated in several Rajasuya yajnas. oil but Sudhanva escaped from it unscathed to the
LAVANAKA (LAVAl^AKA). A place of Puranic all. Likhita and Sankha said that Sudhanva
surprise of
fame near the country of Magadha. There are many
escaped because the boiling of the oil was incomplete
forests in this place suitable for hunting and so several
and uneven. So they boiled the oil again and threw
kings used to come and stay at La.va.naka in times of Sudhanva into At this moment a huge palm tree
it.
old. fell on them and they were killed.
split into two and
LAVAIiJASVA. A sage. This sage showed very high
(Jaimini Asvamedhaparva) .
LAYA. A King of old. He was a member of the court (Sloka 53, Chapter 4, Anusasana Parva).
of Yama. (Sloka 21, Chapter 8, Sabha Parva). LILATILAKAM. The first book of Literary criticism in
LEKHA (S). A deva-gana (set of celestial beings) of Malayalam. The author of the book is unknown. The
Raivata Manvantara. In this set there are eight Devas book is divided into eight parts. Manipravala, Malaya -
named Dhruva, Dhruvaksiti, Praghasa, Pracetas, Brhas- lasabdas, Alaiikara, Kavyagunas, Kavyadosas and
pati, Manojava, Mahayasas and Yuvanas. (Brahmanda
Rasa are critically examined in this book.
Purana, 2, 36, 76) . LlLAVATl I. Wife of Dhruvasandhi, King of Kosala.
LIKHITA I. An ancient sage. The King of that land (For details see under Dhruvasandhi)
cut off his hands on a charge of theft. But they grew LlLAVATl II. A prostitute who attained Svarga by
into their original form by the power of the penance of
simply observing the Suklastamivrata in the month of
his brother, (Chapter 23, Sand Parva).
Prosthapada in which was born Radhadevi. Chapter
It was a time when the celebrated King Sudyumna was seven, Brahmakhanda of Padma Purana contains the
ruling over the country. On the banks of the river
following story.
Bahuda in that country there lived two sages, Sankha
In times of old in Krtayuga there was a beautiful
and Likhita, in two separate hermitages of their own.
Once Likhita went to the aSrama of his elder brother prostitute of the name Lilavatl. Once she went away
from her own town to another in search of better pros-
Sankha and finding none but feeling hungry took some of people in a
pects. There she saw a big assemblage
vegetables from there and started eating them. While
he was eating his brother walked in and he deemed temple. They were observing Radhastamivrata and
the action of his brother taking the vegetables without worshipping their deity with scented flowers and incense
of sweet fragrance. Some were reciting prayers, some
his permission as an act of theft. Cutting the hands of were singing and yet others were dancing. The whole
the culprit was the punishment accorded by the King
at that time to the offender. Sarikha sent Likhita to the atmosphere was filled with devotion. Lilavatl went to
them and enquired about it. They told her that that
King. The King received the sage respecifully and gave
him a seat. The sage then told him all that had happen- day was the birthday of Radhadevi, the Suklastami of
the month of Prosthapada, and if anyone observed
ed and then Sudyumna ordered the hands of Likhita to
Vrata on that day worshipping Radhadevi he would be
be cut off. Blood was oozing from his hands when
absolved of all sins.
Likhita went and bowed before his brother. The brother
congratulated him on his accepting the punishment for
On hearing that, Lilavati decided to observe the Vrata.
his crime and asked Likhita to go and take a dip in the She joined the devotees of the temple and observed the
Bahuda river. Likhita bathed in that holy river and Vrata with great devotion. Soon she died of snake-bite
then he found both the hands growing like lotus-buds and the servants of Yama came to take her soul to hell
from his He rushed to his brother and showed because of the sins she had committed as a prostitute.
body.
him the hands
and then Sarikha said that it was due to But before the Yamadutas could touch her, Parsadas
the power of his penance that Likhita got his hands. of Mahavisnu wearing the insignia of Saiikha, Cakra,
Then Likhita asked his brother why he did not purify Gada and Padma came to her with a chariot drawn
him by his power before. Saiikha replied that the power by kingly swans and took her to heaven.
of punishing was vested in the King and the King LIJNlGAPURAl^A. See under Puranas.
LIPI 454 LIPI
LIPI (ALPHABET, SCRIPT). four kinds of lipis in Bharata during the time of Buddha.
1
) Origin. the record in writing of the utteran-
Lipi is From inscriptions on stones and other historical records
ces by mouth. There are scientific and non-scientific it can be gathered that the basis of all the
lipis had been
statements about the origin of lipi. In the beginning two main lipis named Brahmi and Kharostri. Kharostr!
people used figures of objects to express their ideas. was used in the northwest of Bharata and became extinct
They were called pictorial writings and are found even by the 4th Century A.D. Brahmi was the lipi universally
now in caves in Spain and France where the aborigines used in Bharata. This lipi had different forms in the
lived. Gradually the pictures vanished and letters took north and south. The lipi in use in the south was called
their place. Dravicli.
KharostI lipi was written from right to left and the
2) Ancient conception. Puranas give a different ver-
Brahmi from left to right. Even the Brahmi was written
sion. People of Java believe that the script origi- first from right to left and
nated from Java. The voice of Indonesia, a government gradually for the convenience
of writing it was changed to one from left to right.
organ, published once a puranic story relating to the
Linguists consider Brahml lipi as the base of all the
origin of the script. Lipi came into being in 78 A.D. of Bharata. It underwent changes indifferent
lipis
Ajakikha, a saint among the Buddhists, was the originator
of the lipi. He had Iwo disciples named Dora and parts and took different names. The scholars of Europe
are of opinion that the Brahmi lipi was borrowed from
Sempada. All the three went and stayed in a village in
the valley of the mountains of Kontaiig. The country foreign traders in B.C. 800. Others say that the Brahmi
of Menrarigkamanal was then ruled by a King called lipi was born out of the pictorial lipi of the Chinese.
There are those who say that the Brahmi lipi originated
Baka. AjaSikha heard about this wicked King who had
in Greece and Phoenicia. The great linguist Bulhar
ordered one of his subjects to go to him daily for his
food. The people were worried. They tried in secret to says that the Brahmi lipi came from the Semitic
find out someone to subdue this tyrant. One day they languages. But Lassen and Cunningham refuted it.
There is a bundle of leaves in the hand of the idol of
approached AjaSikha and requested him to find out a Brahma in the temple of Bldami. Hindus believe that
way to get relief from this cruel King. Ajasikha sent the Brahmi lipi found in those leaves was written by
them back promising to do something to help them.
Brahmi himself. The Aryans forgot that lipi and Vyasa
Ajasikha sat in meditation for some time and then told found it out. This is a statement by the Arab traveller
his disciples thus: "I have decided to help the people
Albariini who 'came to India in the llth century A.D.
of Menrangkamanal. Dora also should come with me.
4) Kerala Lipi. The Brahmi lipi came to south India
Sempada should stay here keeping guard over my
sword and clothes. Never give them to anybody but by the 3rd century A.D. Many scholars on languages
me. You should be prepared to give your life for it." say that 'Vetteluttu' is a changed form of the Brahmi
lipi. The great lipi expert L.A. Ravi Varma says that
Ajasikha and Dora went to see Baka. People discourag- 'Eluttu' has come from the word 'Elu' or 'Alu' meaning
ed them and advised them not to go to the King. But 'to mark by cuts'. The common method of writing in
they did not heed that and straight away went to the South India was to use a pointed stick, long metal nail
presence of Baka. Baka started to kill them but then or chisel to make marks on leaves, rocks or copper
Ajasikha said, "Oh King, you can eat me tomorrow. plates. Writing by making marks with the pointed
In return please give me today land as big as my stick (Kol) got the name 'Koleluttu'. Vetteluttu,
headwear". Baka agreed to that and Ajasikha spread Koleluttu and Malayantna were the three lipis in use
his clothes on the ground. As Baka looked with wonder in Kerala. Vetteluttu was in vogue in Tamilnadu also.
that small piece of headwear began to grow big and it But the Pallavas who were using Prakrta language when
grew in size to cover the whole of the country. they conquered the northern Tamilnad introduced
Baka got furious at this and attacked Ajasikha. But Granthaksara and Granthatamil there. T.K.Krishna
Baka was slain in the duel. Menon says that Granthaksara was a false creation to
The people burst into joy and made Ajasikha their write Sanskrit easily. In Pandyadesa and Malanadu
King. Ajasikha then sent Dora to his asrama to fetch Ve^teluttu was in use even then.
his sword and apparels, little thinking of the instructions The influence of the Pallavas began to wane and the
he had given to Sempada. Dora went and asked for the Tamil lipi slowly rose into prominence. Even then
sword and apparel. But Sempada did not give and a Vetteluttu was in vogue in the empire of Cera com-
fight ensued in which both were killed. prising of Malanadu, Mysore. Coimbatore, Salem and
Ajasikha felt very sorry when he heard about the death Tondamandalam. When Tamilnadu came under the
of his disciples. He cursed himself for giving contra- emperor of Vijayanagara those kings introduced Niigari
dictory orders to his disciples and so wrote four lines, lipi there.
each containing five letters, to keep alive the memory Vetteluttu was called Nanam Monam also. In the south
of his dutiful disciples. Those twenty letters are the instead of using 'Hari Sri' people used to say 'Namo-
first ones written not only in Java but the whole world. narayanaya' and the first syllable 'Na' and the second
They were the following: one 'Mo' were used to name the language 'Nanam
He no co ro ko There were two disciples. Monam'.
To to so vo lo They became enemies because they When the Malayalis started liking the Manipravala
obeyed the orders of their guru. they started using 'Arya eluttu' a form of Granthalipi.
Po dho jo yo fijo Both of them were brave men. This script was known as Tulu-Malayalam also. This
Mo go bo do rigo Both of them died. was also born of the Brahmllipi. Gradually Vetteluttu
3) Bharata lipis. Different kinds of lipis were prevalent and Koleluttu was in use in the north of Kerala among
in ancient Bharata. Lalitavistara mentions about sixty- Muslims. The Alphabets now in use by the different
LOBHA 455 LOKA
languages of south India took shape only about two stood as the Eternal, unseen, unheard, unknown entity-
centuries ago. The lipi of Malayalam now in use came Then there was neither sky nor day nor night. When
into shape by the time of Eluttass'an spreading the the time of creation came Prakrti entered Visnu as
belief that it was EluttasSan who had made the Purusa creating emotion. From emotion arose Mahat
alphabet. It is wise to believe that the Malayalam or the Great Principle and from Mahat arose cosmic
script came into use gradually from Arya eluttu than to egoism (Aharikara). Aharikara divided itself into
give credit to one individual for its origin. Vaikarika, Taijasa and Tamasa. From Ahaiikara arose
LOBHA I. One of the spiritual sons of Brahma. Matsya Akasa with the quality of sound and from Akaga came
Purana mentions that Lobha was born from the lip of the air having the quality of touch and from air came
Brahma while Bhagavata mentions that he was the son fire having the quality of colour and from fire came
of Maya. water having the quality of taste and from water came
LOHA I. An Asura. When the Pandavaswere living inco- earth with the quality of smell. All these were born of
gnito they kept their weapons in a secret place. Availing tamasic egoism. From taijasic egoism came into being the
of this opportunity Loha made an attack on the Panda- organs of sense. From the Vaikarika egoism came the
vas. At once the devas made him blind and thus ten Vaikarika devas and the eleventh organ of sense,
helped the Pandavas. That place later became famous the mind. After that Mahavisnu discharged his virility
as Lohanapura. ( Skanda Purana 1,2,65) into water and that virility is life. (Chapter 17, Agni
LOHA. II An ancient place of India. Arjuna conquered Purana) .
this place during his victory march. (Sloka 25, (ii) Mahavisnu with a view to creating many different
Chapter 27, Sabha Parva) . kinds of living things created water first and threw his
LOHAJAKIGHA. See under MAKARADAMSTRA. whole energy into it. That energy grew into a golden
LOHAMEKHALA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Chapter mass of an egg and Brahma was born from that egg.
46, Sloka 18, Salya Parva). Mahavisnu broke that egg into two, making one half
LOHAVAKTRA. A soldier of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 75, heaven and the other earth. Between the two halves he
Chapter 45, Salya Parva). created the sky. The earth was floating on the waters
LOHITA I. (ROH1TA). Son of Hariscandra. (For and he fixed it by anchoring it at ten sides. Then he
details see under HARISCANDRA) . created Prajapati, Kala, Manas, Vak, Kama, Krodha
LOHITA II. A king of ancient India. This king was and Rati. Then he created thunder, lightning, clouds,
conquered by Arjuna. (Sloka 17, Chapter 27, Vana rainbows and birds. Then for yajnasiddhi he created
Parva) . from Rgveda, Yajurveda and Samaveda. He
his face
LOHITA III. A serpent. This serpent is a member of did sacrifices with them. From his hands he created
the court of Varuna. (Sloka 8, Chapter 9, Sabha the different Bhutagramas and Sanatkumaras. He
Parva) . created Rudra out of Krodha. r'rom his mind were
LOHITAGA&GA. A place of Puranic fame. Sri Krsna born Marici, Atri, Angiras, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu
killed five notorious demons
Pancaja and Virupaksa
like and Vasistha. He made these seven Brahmarsis. These
at this place. (Chapter 33, Daksinatya Patha, Sabha seven Brahmarsis and Rudra began to create the prajas.
Parva ) . Then Prajapati divided his body into two. One half of
LOHITAKSA I. One the four Parsadas it became man and the other woman. Brahma started
given to Subrah-
manya by Brahma. The other three are Nandisena, creation through that woman. (Chapter 18; Agni
Ghantakarna and Kumudama.ll. (Sloka 24, Chapter Purana) .
complete. (Asramavasika Parva, Ch 45. Verse 15; At once from the sky came a voice which said :
LOHlTARANl. A river of Puranic fame of ancient India The Lord was surprised by the voice and there appear-
(Sloka 18, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva, M.B.). ed before him Mahadevi with four hands bearing the
LOHITASVA (ROHITASVA). Son of Hariscandra. Sankha, Cakra, Gada and Padma one in each hand.
(See under HARlSCANDRA) . She wore divine garments and ornaments and was accom-
LOHITAYANl. Daughter of Red Sea and one of the panied by Prosperity as her maid. She was surrounded
foster-mothers of Subrahmanya. Lohitayani was a by such forces as Rati Bhuti, Buddhi, Mali, Klrti, Smrti,
worshipper of the Kadamba tree. (Sloka 40, Chapter Dhrti, Sraddha, Medha, Svadha, Svaha, Ksudha, Nidra,
280, Vana Parva) .
Daya, Gati, Tusti, Pusti, Ksama, Lajja, Jrmbha and
LOHITYA. A great river. The present name of this river Tandri. Devi then addressed Mahavisnu thus "Why :
is
Brahmaputra. The devl of this river sils in the court wonder ? You have always come into being whenever
ofVaruna and worships him. (Sloka 22, Chapter 9, creation was started by the greatness of great powers. The
Sabha Parva) .
Supreme Being is without quality of any kind. We are all
LOKA. with quality. You have predominance of Sattvaguna.
(
1
) Origin of Loka. There are several views in the From your navel will arise Brahma who will be dominat-
Puranas regarding the origin of Loka or the world ed by Rajoguna and from the centre of the forehead
(Universe) . of Brahma will be born Rudra with Tamoguna
(i)
In the beginning of the universe Mahavisnu alone predominant in him. Brahma, by the power of his pen-
LOKA 456 LOKA
ance will acquire the energy and he will then
to create Candra, Stars, Sukra, Budha, Angaraka, Brhaspati,
create the world. Yoube the protector of this
will Sani, Saptarsis, Dhruva, Sirhsumara and Rahu, called
world which will in the end be destroyed by Rudra. I the Jyotiscakra. Besides these there are twentyeight
am the sattvic power to help you in your work and I hells also. (Visnu Purana, Aihsa 1
).
am always at your service." Rahu isten thousand yojanas below Surya. Ten thou-
Accordingly Brahma and Rudra were born and Brahma sand yojanas below Rahu is the loka of Siddhavidya-
started his creation. (1st Skandha, Devi Bhagavata). dharas. Below that up to the path of the clouds is the
(iv) In times of old during the great deluge everything loka of the demons, genii and manes. Hundred yojanas
became extinct. It went on like that
in this universe below this is the Bhuloka (earth). Ten thousand yojanas
for some time and then the five elements and Brahma below the earth and as many yojanas below the world
were born. Brahma was born in a lotus. Brahma above each are Atala, Vitala Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala
decided there be mud beneath the lotus. He
should Rasatala and Patala. (5th Skandha, Bhagavata).
went down through the stem of the lotus and travelled 3) Origin of life. Brahma originated from the navel
for a thousand years and yet did not find the earth. He of Mahavisnu. Brahma started creation after obtaining
came back and sitting inside the lotus started doing permission from Visnu. In the beginning Brahma created
penance. After a thousand years Madhu-Kaitabhas from the mind Marici, Ahgiras, Atri, Vasistha, Pulaha,
rushed to attack Brahma (See under Kaitabha). Kratu, and Pulastya. They are therefore called the
Fearing them Brahma went under water again. As he Manasaputras of Brahma. (Manas = mind, Putra, =
went deep down he saw a great man sleeping there. It son). From his wrath came Rudra, from his lap came
was Mahavisnu and then only he knew he was sitting Narada, from his right thumb Daksa, from his mind
on the lotus originating from the navel of Mahavisnu. Sanaka and others and from his left thumb, Vlranl.
Mahavisnu killed Madhu Kaitabhas and gave per- Daksa married ViranT.
mission to start creation and Brahma started his work Daksa got five thousand sons of ViranT. They also got
of creation. sons. When the population began to increase thus
(v) Before the origin of the Universe the shapeless Narada intervened and questioned the advisability of
qualityless Parai'akti permeated everything. From it increasing the population before knowing the capacity of
there were born three powers: Jnanasakti, Kriyasakti the earth. 1 he sons of Daksa realised the sense in it
and Arthasakti. The power of Sattvaguna was Jnana- and started to have a survey of the earth. Daksa was
Sakti, the power of Rajoguna was Kriyasakti and the disappointed that the children left him without showing
power of Tamoguna was Arthasakti. From the divine any interest in the work of creation. So he produced
power of Tamasa came the five basic things, sound, another five thousand sons and asked them to start the
colour, touch, taste and smell. The quality of the sky work of creation. But they were also sent away as
was sound, the quality of air was touch, the quality of before by Narada. Daksa became angry and he created
fire was colour, the quality of water was taste and the sixty daughters.
quality of earth was smell. He gave thirteen daughters to Kasyapa, ten to Dharma,
Rajoguna was born of Kriyasakti. The five organs of twentyseven to Candra, two to Bhrgu, four to Arista-
senses, ear, eye, nose, tongue and skin and the five nemi, two to Krtasva, and two to Angiras. Of these
organs of work, hand, leg, speech, organ of excretion most of the living things in the world were born to
and the organ of sex and the five breaths, Prana, Apana, Kasyapa. (7th Skandha, Devi Bhagavata) .
Vyana, Samana and Udana are the offsprings of Rajasa. Kasyapa was the last of the Prajapatis. Kasyapa
These are the forms of Kriyasakti. These are controlled married the daughters of Daksa named Aditi, Diti,
by the favourable activity of Cicchakti. The five gods Danu, Kalika, Tamra, Krodhavaga, Manu, and Anala.
controlling the sense-organs like Vayu, Surya, Pasi Aditi got thirty three sons and their family consists of the
and ASvinidevas and the four gods controlling intelli- thirty three crores of Devas. From Diti were born the
gence, conscience etc. like Candra, Brahma, Rudra, daityas or asuras. From Danu was born the danava
and Ksetrajna and the mind are ten Tattvas (Princi- Hayagriva. Kalika got two sons, Naraka and Kalaka.
ples) born of sattvika empowered with Jfianasakti. Tamra got five daughters, KrauncI, BhasI, SyenI, Dhrta-
All the Tattvas were made into five basic elements rastri and Sukl. Krauiici gave birth to owls, Bhasi
through the process of Panclkarana and the Brahmanda to Bhasas and Syeni to Syenas (Vultures, Kites etc. ).
originated from it. Dhrtarastrl gave birth to Harhsas, Kalaharhsas and
2) The constitution of Brahmanda. The Brahmanda is made Kokas. Suki gave birth to Nata and Nata in turn to
up of seven Kosas (coverings). The one in the extreme Vinata. Krodhavasa gave birth to ten daughters;
interior is very small. The second KoSa originates from Hari, Bhadramada,
MrgI, Mrgamanda, Matangi,
the centre of the first Kosa. The third Kosa also has Sarduli, Sveta, Surabhi, Surasa and Kadru. Of these
its origin from the first one. Each of them envelops Mrgi gave birth to beasts, Mrgamanda to trees and
the one before it. The seventh KoSa thus originating plants. Lions and monkeys are the children of Hari,
from the first Kosa and bursting forth through the Bhadramada got a daughter named Iravatl. Airavata
other six Kosas spreads out for millions of miles around. was the son of Iravatl. From Matangi were born the
If you cut the Brahmanda longitudinally the one in elephants and from Sarduli the tigers. The Astadigga-
the extreme interior is the earth. Then come Bhuvar- jas are the sons of Sveta. Surabhi got two daughters
loka, Svarloka, Maharloka, Janaloka, Tapoloka, and named Rohini and Gandharvl. Cows are the children
Satyaloka in succession. The worlds in the lower half of Rohini and horses are the children of Gandharvi.
are called Patala, Rasatala, Mahatala, Talatala Sutala, Serpents are the sons of Surasa and Kadru gave birth
Vitala and Atala. From Satyaloka to Atala there are to snakes. From Manu were born men. Trees are the
fourteen lokas. The Brahmanda consists of the Surya, sons of Anala. Vinata got two sons named Aruna and
LOKALOKA 457 LOMASA I
Garuda. To Aruna were born two sons, Jatayu and 2) Other details.
Rama and Parasurama. (Sloka 40, Chapter 99, Vana MADA I. An Asura. This demon came out of the
Parva). sacrificial fire of Cyavana to kill Indra. (See under
(8) Asuras defeated all the Devas and the latter were Cyavana) .
perplexed. It was Lomasa who then advised them to MADA II. One of the Manasaputras (spiritual sons)
make weapons out of the bones of the sage Dadhica. of Brahma. Matsya Puraiia states that Mada was born
(Chapter 100, Vana Parva). of the Pride of Brahma.
(9) Lomasa mentioned to the Devas a trick to kill MADADHARA. A mountain. Bhimasena, while on his
Vrtrasura. (Chapter 101, Vana Parva). victory march to the east conquered this mountain.
(10) The story of Bhaglratha, the episode of Rsyasniga Sabha Parva).
(Sloka 9, Chapter 30,
etc. were all told by Lomasa. (Chapters 103 to 113, MADALASAl. A Vidyadharl. She was married to a
Vana Parva) .
Vidyadhara named Campaka. (See under Campaka) .
(11) Lomasa
told Yudhisthira the story of the Yaga of MADALASA II, Wife of Rtadhvaja, King of Kasl.
King Gaya, the story of the river Payosni, the glory of Once a demon named Patalaketu carried away
the mountain of Vaidurya and the river Narmada, and Madalasa and Rtadhvaja took her back after defeating
the story of Cyavana the great sage. (Chapter 121, Patalaketu in a fight. Alarka was the son of this couple.
Vana Parva). MADANAMALA. A celebrated prostitute of the city of
(12) He told the Pandavas the story of Mandhata. Pratisthana. Narasirhha, King of Pratisthana, did not
(Chapter 126, Vana Parva). surrender himself to Vikramaditya, emperor of
(13) Lomas'a told Yudhisthira the story of Somaka and Patallputra. The resourceful Vikramaditya went to
Jantu. (Chapter 127, Vana Parva). Pratisthana and caught hold of the prostitute Madana-
(14) He holy place Yamuna-
praised the glory of the mala first and then through her subdued the King
tirtha, known Plaksaprasravana also, near Kuru-
as Narasirhha. After that Vikramaditya took Madana-
ksetra. Chapter 129, Vana Parva). mala to his place and made her stay there. (Taranga
(15) It was Lomas'a who told the story of the emperor 4, Ratnaprabhalambaka, Kathasaritsagara).
Sibi who gave his own flesh to protect a dove which MADANAMANCUKA. A heroine of 'Vatsarajacarita'.
went him for refuge. (Chapter 130, Vana Parva).
to Her mother was a nymph in her previous birth. By a
(16) Lomasa told the story of the sage Astavakra to the curse of Devendra she was born on earth as Kalingasena
Pandavas. (Chapter 133, Vana Parva) . and lived serving in the palace of Udayana, King of
(17) He described the story of Yavakrlta and Medhavi Vatsa. She desired to make Udayana her husband. In
to the Pandavas. (Chapter 135, Vana Parva) . the meantime a Gandharva named Madanavega fell in
(18) Dharmaputra heard the stories of Bharadvaja, love with Kalingasena. Knowing that Kalirigasena was
Raibhya, Arvavasu and Paravasu from Lomasa. in love with Udayana the Gandharva followed her in
(Chapter 137, Vana Parva). the garb of the King Udayana and at last they were
(19) Lomas'a told Dharmaputra* the story of Naraka- married. Kalingasena soon delivered Madaiiaman-
sura and the incarnation of Visnu as Varaha. (Chapter cuka, an incarnation of Ratidevi. When she grew up
142, Vana Parva). she married Naravahanadatta, son of Udayana.
(20) Lomasa visited Bhisma lying on his bed of arrows. (Madanamancukalambaka, Kathasaritsagara, Taranga
(Sand Parva). 8).
(21 ) LomaSa praised the glory of giving rice as charity, MADANAVEGA. A Gandharva. (See under Madana-
(Sloka 10, Chapter 67, Anusasana Parva). mancuka) .
(22) Loma:'awasa sage from the north. (Sloka 46, MADANIKA. A nymph, a daughter of Menaka. A
her. But Kandhara
Chapter 165, Vana Parva). demon named Vidyudrupa married
(23) Lomasa relieved many nymphs like Pramohim of the family of Garuda killed Vidyudrupa and took
from their curses. (See under Pramohini) . Madanika for himself. They got a child named
LOMASA II. A cat. (See under Dindika) . Tarksl. (Markandeya Purana, Chapter 2).
LOPAMUDRA. Wife of Agastya. '(For details see under MADAYANTl. Wife of King Kalmasapada. He was
Agastya). known as Mitrasaha and Saudasa also. When Kalma-
LUSA. A Rgvedic hermit. It is mentioned in Rgveda sapada lay cursed Vasistha begot a child
of MadayantI
thai Lusa and Kutsa were rivals to win the mercy of named Asmaka. MadayantI gave her ear-rings to the
Indra. sage Uttanka. (For details see under Uttanka and
Once Lusa and Kutsa invited Indra at the same time. Kalmasapada).
But Indra refused Lua and put him in prison. Even MADHAVA I. A synonym of Sri Krsna. Because
from the prison Lus"a prayed to Indra to visit him. SriKrsna could be properly understood by Manana,
(Rgveda, Mandala 10, Anuvaka 88, Sukta 5; Jai- Dhyana and Yoga he got the name Madhava. (Sloka
miniya Brahmana 1.128). 4, Chapter 7, Udyoga Parva) .
prepared for that and she informed Madhava thus : account between Madhu and Ravana in which Madhu
"There is a
princess the island of Plaksa named
in was killed.
Sulocana. She is far more beautiful than myself and MADHU III. A king who used to sit in the court of Yama
is 'fit to be your consort. Do try to get her." and worship him. (Sloka 16, Chapter 8, Sabha Parva).
Madhava accepted the advice of Candrakala and MADHUCCHANDAS. A sage who observed correctly
started for the island of Plaksa with a servant of his the ASrama of Vanaprastha. He was one of the Brahma-
named Pracesta. The news that welcomed him when he vadi sons of Visvamitra. (Sloka. 50, Chapter 4, Anu-
reached the island was that the marriage of Sulocana sasana Parva). Visvamitra had a hundred sons like
had been fixed with one Vidyadhara. Undaunted Madhucchandas. (10th Skandha, Bhagavata). The first
Madhava sent a love-letter to the princess mentioning Sukta of Rgveda was written by this sage.
his arrival in the city, seeking her hand in marriage. MADHUKAITABHA(S) Two Asuras named Madhu and
.
In reply to that Sulocana wrote that if Madhava appear- Kaitabha. See under KAITABHA
( )
.
ed on the marriage-dais in time she would accept him as MADHUKUMBHA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
her husband. 19, Chapter 46, Salya Parva) .
The marriage day arrived and Madhava waited for the MADHULIKA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 19,
time of the function. But when the auspicious hour Chapter 46, Salya Parva) .
came Madhava was asleep. Pracesta, his servant, took MADHUMAN. A place of habitation of ancient India.
advantage of the opportunity and carried away Sulo- (Sloka 53, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva).
cana. But Sulocana was determined to marry only MADHUPARKA. One of the children of Garuda. (Sloka
Madhava and she escaped from the custody of Pracesta 14, Chapter 11, Udyoga Parva).
and reached the palace of a King called Susena and MADHURA. A soldier of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 71,
stayed there as a servant wearing the robes of a male, Chapter 45, Salya Parva).
calling himself Viravara. MADHURASVARA. A celestial maiden. She once con-
Viravara, i e Sulocana in disguise, saved Vidyadhara ducted a dance performance in honour of Arjuna. ( Sloka
and Pracesta from committing suicide. At that time 30, Chapter 43, Vana Parva) .
Madhava also in despair was about to commit suicide MADHUSAKTA. An Asura. During the time of the em-
when Sulocana appeared before him in time and stopped peror Prthu, the earth was turned into a cow and people
him from doing it. Sulocana then told him all that had milked from her the things they wanted. Madhujakta
happened and they were happily united as husband and was the person who did the milking for the Asuras.
wife. MADHUSRAVA. A sacred place in Kuruksetra, situated
MADHAVA III. A son born to Yadu of his Naga wife near another holy place called Prthudaka. If one
Dhumravarna. The renowned Yadava dynasty was bathes in a pond there one will have to his credit the
established by thisYadu and his son Madhava. benefit of making a thousand Godanas. (Sloka 15,
(Harivamga) .
Chapter 83, Vana Parva) .
MADHAVA IV. A virtuous brahmin. Once when he was MADHUStJDANA. Another name for Sri Krsna. Because
about to sacrificea goat in the sacrificial fire the goat he killed an Asura named Madhu he was called
in human voice told the story of its previous birth and Madhusudana. (Sloka 16, Chapter 207, Vana Parva).
requested the brahmin to sacrifice it after reciting the MADHUSYANDA. A sage who was the son of Visva-
ninth chapter of the Gita. Madhava did so and the goat mitra. (Sarga 62, Bala Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana).
got salvation. (Uttara Khanda, Padma Purana). MADHUVANA. A forest-garden owned by the great mon-
MADHAVl Daughter of King Yayati. A lady recluse
I.
key-King Sugriva. After finding out the whereabouts
she always wore deer-hide as her garment and went on of Slta, Hanuman and Angada accompanied by other
observing a Vrata called Mrgavrata Yayati gave this :
monkeys entered this garden and drank honey to their
daughter in marriage to Galava. (Sloka 12, Chapter 145, heart's content. ( Chapter 282. Vana Parva and Sundara
Udyoga Parva). Madhavi bore a son named Vasuman Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) .
tantra (See under Pancatantra) . are generally called Magas. The Brahmaparva of Bhavi-
MADRA. One of the ten wives of Atrimaharsi. Atri got sya Purana and the Samba Purana speak about the
of Madra a son named Soma. (Brahmanda Purana) .
Magas thus :
MADRA (M). An
ancient place of habitation in Bharata. Samba, son of Krsna, did severe penance to please Surya-
This is situated near the river Jhelum. Madri, deva and pleased with the unwavering devotion of
the wife of Pandu was a princess of this place. Bhisma Samba, Surya gave him a luminous replica of himself
went Madra and brought Madri for Pandu. (Chapter
to for worship. Samba constructed a beautiful temple by
112, Adi Parva). At the time of Arjuna's birth there the side of the Candrabhaga river and installed the idol
was a voice from heaven which said, "This child will there. He then brought from Sakadvlpa the brahmins
grow up and capture many countries like Madra". called Magas for conducting the ceremonies of the tem-
Asvapati, father of Savitrl, was a king of Madra. Karna ple. All the eighteen families of Maga brahmins came
condemned Madra and Vahika as countries which had and stayed near the temple at the request of Samba.
fallen low in virtue. (Chapter 44, Karna Parva) . MAGADHA. A famous city of ancient India. Its present
MADRAKA I. A Ksatriya king of ancient Bharata. He name is Rajagrha. The Puranas mention many great
was born of the partial spirit of the demon Krodhavasa. Kings who had ruled Magadha. Brhadratha was once
Sloka 59, Chapter 67, Adi Parva) .
King of Magadha. (Sloka 30, Chapter 63, Adi Parva)
MADRAKA II. Soldiers of the country of Madra were Jayatsena one of the Kalakeyas was once the King of
called Madrakas. Madrakas were included in the Kau- Magadha. (Sloka 48, Chapter 67, Adi Parva) Pandu .
rava army. (Sloka 7, Chapter 51, Bhisma Parva). father of the Pandavas once attacked Magadha and
MADRAKALAJsIGA. A place of habitation of ancient Dirgha the then King of Magadha was killed by Pandu.
India. (Sloka 42, Chapter 9,Bhisma Parva). (Chapter 112, Adi Parva). While Brhadratha was ruling
MADRAVATl I. Wife of Pariksit, son of Abhimanyu. She Magadha he passed an order that each and every house
was the mother of Janamejaya. (Sloka 85, Chapter should worship the demoness Jara as a house-goddess.
95, Adi Parva). (Sloka 10, Chapter 13, Sabha Parva). During the time
MADRAVATl II. Another name for Madri, wife of of the Mahabharata Jarasandha was the King of
Pandu. (Sloka 56, Chapter 52, Sabha. Parva). Magadha. Sri Krsna made Bhimasena kill Jarasandha.
MADREYAJA&GALA. A place of habitation of ancient After his death Sri Krsna made Sahadeva brother of
India. (Sloka 39, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva). Jarasandha the King of Magadha. (Sloka 43, Chapter
MADRI. Madri who was the second wife of Pandu was 24, Sabha Parva) Bhimasena conquered this country
.
'
a daughter of the King of Madra. She was the sister during his victory march. The people of Magadha
of Salya. Nakula and Sahadeva took birth from Madri. offered gifts to Yudhisthira at his Rajasuya. (Sloka 18,
Pandu expired when he embraced his wife Madri. It Chapter 52, Sabha Parva). The King of Magadha and
was because of a curse of the hermit Kindama. Madri the people there fought on the side of the Pandavas in
ended her life in the pyre with her husband. (For fur- the great battle. (Sloka 2, Chapter 53, Udyoga Parva) .
ther details see under the word PAl^DU) . MAGADHAS. A particular tribe < f people. If the work
MADYA. Wine. There is a story in the seventh Skandha of Sutas was to drive chariots and the work of Pulkasas
of Devi Bhagavata showing how Madya happened to be to hunt, the work of the Magadhas was that of an
an intoxicant. Once Indra sent out the Asvinidevas adulator. (Chapter 151, Agni Purana). This work of
from Devaloka and banned wine to them. They took a flatterer was given to them by Brahma. When the
MAGADHI 461 MAHADHRTl
emperor Prthu was born, Brahma conducted a Yaga. called Dharmadeva. Magha was born in Gujarat. A
On the day of sutya at the place of Somabhisava of the literary critic named Jacobi fixes the period of Magha
Yaga a very intelligent Suta was born. At the same yaga as thecentury A.D. while others fix
6th it as the 8th
a Magadha also was born. He was a great scholar. Then century A.D. Magha has made references to the drama
the sages told Magadha and Suta thus: "Praise this
king 'Nagananda' written by Harsa. Harsa was a King
Prthu, who is the valorous son of Vena. Praising is the during the period 606 to 649 and that is why the
fittest work suited to you both. Prthu deserves period of Magha is fixed after that period.
praise."
Then the Suta-Magadhas placing their hands on their MAGHA. A month (February)
This is so called be- .
breasts with respect said, "What do we know of the cause it is with the constellation
closely associated
qualities and capabilities of a king just born ? His fame Magha. This month is between the months of Pausa and
is not known. Based on what should we
sing praises of Phalguna. 'Mahabharata makes some statements about
him ?" Hearing this the sages said that they should the importance of the month of Magha.
praise him for the qualities which he would be possess- (i) He who bathes at Prayaga during this month will
ing in future. The king was pleased to hear that. Suta- be free from all sins. (Sloka 37, Chapter 25, Anusasana
Magadhas started singing eulogistic songs based on the Parva).
qualities and exploits of a Prthu to be. Prthu then (ii )
He who gingelly as gift to Brahmins during
gives
appointed Suta as his charioteer and Magadha as his this month never go to hell. (Sloka 8, Chapter 66,
will
adulator. From then onwards the Suta family became AnuSasana Parva) .
charioteers and the Magadha family flatterers. (Chap- (iii) If one takes food only once a day during the whole
ters 13 70 Ariisa 1, Visnu Purana). of this month one will be born very rich in the next
MAGADHI. A river which flows through the middle Chapter 106, Anusasana Parva).
birth. (Sloka 31,
of five mountains. (Sarga 32, Bala Kanda, Valmlki (iv) worships Sri Krsna fasting on the Dvadasi
If one
Ramayana) .
day of Magha one will get the benefit of conducting a
MAGHA I. A
sacred place. If one visits this place one Rajasuya yajna. (Sloka 5, Chapter 109, Anusasana
would get the benefit of performing the yajnas like Agni- Parva).
stoma and Atiratra. (Sloka 51, Chapter 84-, Vana (v) Bhisma expressed his desire to Krsna to end his
Parva) . life on the astami day falling in the bright fortnight
MAGHA II. One of the twentyseven constellations. The of the month of Magha. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter
importance of this constellation is mentioned in the 167,_Sloka28).
Mahabharata in several places. MAHABAHU. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra.
(i) When the planet Kuja (Mars), during its retrograde Bhimasena killed him in the Bharata Yuddha. (M.B.
motion, comes near the constellation of Magha many Drona Parva, Chapter 157, Verse 19).
unhappy incidents occur in the world. (Sloka 14, MAHABALA I. Minister of Srldatta. (See under the
Chapter 3, Bhisma Parva) . word Srldatta).
(ii) If Candra stays near Magha it is an ill omen. (Sloka MAHABALA II. A follower of Lord Subrahmanya.
2, Chapter 17, Bhisma Parva). (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 71).
(iii)
If one gives away land in
charity on the day of MAHABALI. See under the word Bali.
Magha one will be rich in children and cattle. (Sloka MAHABHAUMA. Son of Ariha, a King of the Puru
12, Chapter 64, Anusasana Parva). dynasty. He had a son Ayutanayl by his wife Suyajna.
(iv) If one gives pudding to the poor on the day of (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Verse 19).
Magha which comes in the black half of the month MAHABHAYA. A Raksasa. He was born to Adharma
of Tula (October) the Manes will be pleased. by his wife Nirrti. Miihabhaya had two brothers named
(Sloka
7, Chapter 88, Anusasana Parva). Bhaya and Mrtyu. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 66,
(v) If one worships the Manes on the day of Magha Verse 54).
sitting in the shade of an elephant, the manes will be MAHABHISAK. A King of the Iksvaku dynasty. He had
satisfied. (Sloka 8, Chapter 88, Anufasana
Parva) . another name Santanu. (For further details see under
(vi) If one conducts the obsequial rites and acts of Santanu) .
charity on the day of Magha one would become the MAHABHOJA. A Yadava King. (Bhagavata, 9th
most excellent member of the family. (Sloka 5. Chapter
Skandha).
89, Anusasana Parva).
MAGHA. A Sanskrit poet who lived in the 7th
MAHACODA. A woman follower of Subrahmanya.
Century (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 5) .
A.D. The only work of his which has come to light is
bharata, Bhisina Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 33) . MAHAKAYA. A woman follower of Lord Subrahmanya
MAHAGOYA. A river (Nada) celebrated in the Puranas. (M.B. Salya J'arva, Chapter 46, Verse, 24).
It is also known as ''Sonabhadra" and Mahaiona. It is MAHAKRAUNCA. A montain in the Kraunca island
after crossing this river that Krsna, Bhlma and Arjuna (M.B. Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 7).
entered Magadha, the capital of Jarasandha. (M.B. MAHALAYA. A holy place. Mahabharata, Vana
Sabha Parva, Chapter 20, Verse 27) .
Parva, Chapter 84, Verse 54 mentions that one who
MAHAHANU. A naga born in the family of Taksaka. observes a fast at this holy place for one month, will be
In Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 57, Verse 10, we absolved of all sins.
read that this naga was burnt to death in Janamejaya's MAHAMALl. A hero of Ravana's army. He
Raksasa
'Sarpasatra'. was Pancavati between Rama and
killed in the battle at
MAHAHANUS. One of the sons of Vasiidcva by Rohim. Laksmana on one side and Khara, Dusaria and Trisiras
( Matsya Purana) . on the other, over the affair of Surpanakha. Mahamall
MAHAHAYA. A King of the Yayati dynasty. (Bhaga- appeared on the scene as a commander of Khara's
vata, 9th Skandha). army. (Valmiki Ramayana. Aranya Kanda, 26th
MAHAHRADA. A holy place. One who takes a bath Sarga) .
here will never be in misfortune. M.B. Anugasana MAHAMANAS. Grandson of Janamejaya, a King of
Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 48 says that one who takes the Ahga dynasty. Mahasala was the son of Janamejaya
bath here and spends a month fasting with a pure heart and Mahamanas was the son of Mahasala. Uslnara
will attain salvation. was the son of Mahamanas. (Agni Purana, Chapter
MAHAjANU. A Brahmana. When Pramadvara lay 277).
bitten by a serpent, this Brahmana came near her with MAHAMATI. The seventh son of the sage Aiigiras.
tearful eyes. ( See under Pramadvara) . There a reference to him in Mahabharata, Vana
is
Kubera. On the eastern side there are two mountains, Jara and
MAHAKALA II. A
sacred place situated in the Sipra Devakuta. On the western side there are two mountains,
river valley in Ujjain. The Sivalinga installed in this Pavamana and Pariyatra. On the southern side are the
place is called "Mahakala." Mahabharata, Vana Parva, two mountains, Kailasa and Karavira and on the north-
Chapter 82, Verse 49 says that those who take a bath ern side, the two mountains, Trisriiga and Makaragiri.
in the Kotitirtha at this place, get the same effect as Thus Mahameru shines like the sun in the midst of
that of an Ar'vamedha yaga. eight mountains. In the middle of Mahameru is situat-
MAHAKAPALA I. A minister of the Raksasa Dusaria. ed Brahmaloka, the abode of Brahma in a square
(Valmlki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, 23rd Sarga) .
extending over 10,000 yojanas. This region is of inex-
MAHAKAPALA II. A Raksasa who attacked Rama pressible splendour. At eight places around this
and Laksmana at Pancavati. In Valmlki Ramayana, Brahmapurl, are situated the eight posts or abodes of
Aranya Kanda, 26th Sarga we read that when Rama the Astadikpalas, each of the abodes being 25000
and Laksmana fought with Khara, Dusana and TriSiras yojanas in extent. Thus there are nine Purls or Cities
MAHAMUKHA 463 MAHARAUDRA
on the top of Mahameru. They are: (1) Brahma's MAHAN The son of the Agni Bharata, who was a
II.
Manovati in the centre. (2) Due east of it, Indra's Prajapati. Mahabharata, Vana Parva Chapter 219,
Amaravatl. (13) In the south-east corner, Agni's Verse 8 states that he was a much revered person.
Tejovatl. (4) On the southern side Yama's Sarhyamani.
;
MAHANADA. A Raksasa. In Valmiki Ramayana,
(5) In the south west corner, Nirrti's Krsnanjana, Yuddha Kanda, we see that he was a Minister and
(6) On the western side, Varuna's Sraddhavati. (7) the uncle of Ravana.
In the north-west corner, Vayu's Gandhavati. (8) On MAHANADl I. A river, celebrated in the Puranas and
the northern side, Kubcra's Mahodaya.(9) In the north flowing through the region Utkala (Orissa). Arjuna
cast corner, Isan'as Yasovatl. (Devi Bhagavata, once took a bath in it. Mahabharata Vana Parva,
8th Skandha) .
Chapter 84, Verse 81-, states that those who bathe in this
2 ) Mahameru and Laiika. Ravana's place of abode Lanka river will obtain "Aksayaloka".
was really a peak of Mahameru. (For further details, see MAHANADl II. A river in the S~aka island. (M.B.
the previous history of Laiika in Para 5 under the word Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 32).
Kubera). MAHANANDA I. See under Taraka II.
3) How Mahameru got its golden colour. The Puranas MAHANANDA II. A King of Madra land. Dama, the
declare that the sun keeps going round Mahameru. son of Narisyanta killed Mahananda at the Svayarhvara
Once, while the sun was thus going round, he ofSumana. (Markandeya Purana, 130.52).
wished to take a little rest. He asked permission to MAHANANDA III. A holy place. Mahabharata, Anu-
place the axle of his chariot for a short while on Maha- sasana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 45, says that those
meru. The mountain agreed to it. The grateful Sun- who worship in this place will obtain entry into
god (Surya) blessed Mahameru that it would thence- Nandanavana.
forth have golden colour. Until it received this blessing, MAHANANDl. A Magadha King who was the son of
Maharm-ru had the colour of ordinary mountains. Nandivardhana. He was the last King of the Sisunaga
4) Other details. dynasty. King Nanda was the son of Mahanandi by a
(i) Two daughters named Ayati and Niyati were born Sudra woman. According to Matsya Purana, Vayu
to Mahameru. They were married by Dhata. and Purana and Brahmanda Purana, he ruled the country
Vidhata respectively. (Visnu Purana, Part I, Chapter for 46 years.
10). MAHAPADMA I. King of the Nanda dynasty.
The first
(ii)Vasistha had an asrama near Mahameru. (M.B. According to Purana and Matsya Purana,
Vayu
Adi Parva. Chapter 99, Verse 6). Mahapadma was the son of Mahanandi, the last King
(iii) Mahameru attends on Kubera in Kubera's of the Sisunaga dynasty. He was the son of Mahanandi
assembly. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 12, Verse 73). by a Sudra woman. He killed his father and founded
(iv) The extensive Jambu Vrksa stands on the south- the Nanda dynasty.
ern side of Mahameru. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter MAHAPADMA II. An elephant in Ghatotkaca's ele-
38). phant army during the Bharata Yuddha. (M.B. Bhlsma
(v) At the time of Emperor Prthu, the earth was turned Parva, Chapter 60, Verse 51) .
into a cow and all living beings obtained all their MAHAPADMA III. One of the Astadiggajas. (The eight
necessaries by milking her. It was Mahameru- who elephants guarding the eight cardinal points). (M.B.
stood as milking man on behalf of the mountains. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 64, Verse 57) .
(M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 69, Verse 18). MAHAPADMAPURA. An ancient place in the south of
(vi) In Tripuradahana, it was Mahameru which was the Gaiiga river valley. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter
erected as the flag-staff in Siva's chariot. (M.B. Drona 353. Verse 1).
Parva, Chapter 202, Verse 78) . MAHAPAGA. A famous river There
in ancient India.
(vii) Mahameru presented two Parsadas named is a reference to this river in Mahabharata, Bhisma
Kancana and Meghamal! to Subrahmanya. (M.B. Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 28.
Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 48 ) . MAHAPARISADESVARA. A follower of Lord Subrah-
(viii) Mahameru once presented heaps of gold to manya. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 66) .
Emperor Prthu. (M.B. &anti Parva, Chapter 59, MAHAPAR&VA I. One of the heroic warriors of Ravana.
Verse 1). In the battle between Rama and Ravana, all those
(ix) Mahameru is anointed as the King of mountains. warriors were killed. (Agni Purana, Chapter 11).
(M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 222, Verse 18). MAHAPARSVA II. A mountain to the north-east of
(x) Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 341, Verse Siva's abode on the top of Mount Kailasa. There is a
22 says that Vyasa once stayed on Mahameru with his reference to this mountain in Mahabharata, Anusasana
disciples. Parva, Chapter 19, Verse 21.
(xi) Sthular'iras and Badavamukha once performed MAHAPRASTHANIKA PARVA. A subsidiary Parva
tapas on Mahameru. (M.B. Santi Parva, Chapter 342, inMahabharata which describes the Mahaprasthana
Verse 59). conducted by the Pandavas after the Bharata Yuddha.
MAHAMUKHA. A warrior of King Jayadratha. Maha- MAHAPUMAN. A mountain. (Mahabharata, Bhlsma
bharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 221, Verse 16 mentions Parva, Chapter 11, Verse 26) .
that he was killed by Nakula in the battle which MAHAPURA. A holy place. Mahabharata, Anusasana
followed the forcible abduction of Pafica.li by Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 26 states that if one takes a
Jayadratha. bath in this place and leads a pure life here for three
MAHAN I. A King of the Puru dynasty. He was the nights, one will become fearless.
son of Matinara. (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 94, Verse MAHARAUDRA. A Raksasa who was the friend of
14). Ghatotkaca. He was killed by Duryodhana at the battle
MAHARAURAVA (M) 464 MAHENDRA II
of Kuruksetra. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 91, Verse night here observing a fast, would obtain "Subhaloka".
20). One who spends three months like that will become a
MAHARAURAVA (M). A naraka (hell). (See the section "Paramasiddha". (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 25,
on Naraka under the word Kala I) . Verse 17).
MAHARAVA. A King of the Yadu dynasty. In Maha- MAHASURA. One of the Asura leaders who fought
bharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 218, we read that this against Subrahmanya. (Skanda Purana, Asura
Ksatriya King had participated in the festival conduct- Kanda).
ed by Yadavas at the Raivataka mountain. MAHASVA. A King celebrated in the Puranas. Maha-
MAHARLOKA. A world which was believed by the Sabha Parva, Chapter 8, Verse 19 says that
bharata,
ancient people to be situated one crore yojanas above this King now lives in Yama's assembly.
the "Dhruvapada". Visnu Purana, Part II, Chapter 7 MAHASVANA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (M.B.
says that it is there that sages like Bhrgu live till the end Salya Parva, Chapter 40, Verse 26).
ot Kalpa. MAHATALA. A section of Patala. The descendants of
MAHAROMA. A King of the Solar dynasty. He was the serpent Kadru
live here. These serpents are many-
the son of Krtirata and father of Svarnaroma. (Bhaga- headed and terrible monsters. Chief among them are
vata. 9th Skandha) .
Kahaka, Taksaka, Susena, Kaliya and others. All these
MAHASALA. A King of the Anga dynasty. He was the serpents have long and slender bodies, large hoods and
son of Janamejaya and father of Mahamanas. (Agni are of very cruel nature. Still they are all afraid of
Purana, Chapter 277) . Garuda and so live quietly with their families in Maha-
MAHASA&KHA A
crocodile celebrated in the
I. tala. (Devi Bhagavata, 8th Skandha).
Puranas. He had a wife named Sankhini. The seven MAHATAPAS. A great sage. Varaha Purana states that
children born to Sarikhini became the Maruts in the sage advised King Suprabha to worship Visnu.
this
Svarocisa Manvantara. There is a story in Chapter 72, MAHATEJAS. A warrior of Subrahmanya. (M.B. Salya
Vamana Purana about these children who became Parva, Chapter 45, Verse 70).
Maruts. MAHATl. Narada's Vina (Lute). It was this Mahati
Rtadhvaja, son of Svarocisa Manu had seven heroic which became the lute in the world, as the result of a
sons. They went to Mahameru and began to worship curse. (See under Narada) .
Brahma for gaining Indra's place. Indra was alarmed. MAHATTARA. One of the five sons of the Agni Panca-
He sent the Apsara woman Putana to the sons of Rta- janya. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 22, Verse 9) .
dhvaja to obstruct their tapas. There was a river flowing MAHAUJAS I. A King of ancient Bharata. The Panda-
by the side of their asrama. Rtadhvaja's sons came to vas had invited this King to take part in the great
the river to take their bath. Just at that time, Putana, battle. (Sloka 22, Chapter Udyoga Parva)
4, .
also came there and began to take bath. At her sight, MAHAUJAS II. A dynasty of Ksatriyas. King Varayu
the young men had an involuntary emission of semen. was born in this dynasty. (Sloka 15, Chapter 74. Udyoga
Sankhim, wife of the crocodile MahaSarikha swallowed Parva) .
it. Theprinces whose tapas was interrupted returned MAHAVEGA. A woman follower of Subrahmanya.
to the palace. Putana returned to Indra and reported (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 16) .
"Vayu Skandha". He took them up to the sky and put MAHAVlRA II. Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 67,
them in Vayuskandha. These children were the Maruts Verse 68, refers to a Mahavlra, who was the re-birth
of the Svarocisa Manvantara. of the Asura Krodhavaga.
MAHASAlsLKHA II. A Naga. Bhagavata, 10th Skandha MAHAYASAS. A woman follower of Subrahmanya.
says that this Naga revolves along with the sun in the (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 46, Verse 28).
month of MargasTrsa. MAHENDRA I. Father of the princess Patali. (See under
MAHASENA Another name for Subrahmanya. (M.B.
I.
Pataliputra) .
MAHASENA II. A prince of Ujjayini. (See under MAHENDRA II. One of the holy mountains. This
mountain has great Puranic importance.
Angaraka I) .
MAHASlRAS I. An
ancient sage. In Mahabharata. (
1
)
After slaughtering the Ksatriyas to extinction sage
Sabha Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 10 we find that this Parasurama made Mahendra his place of abode. (Sloka
sage shone in the assembly of Dharmaputra. 53, Chapter 129, Adi Parva).
MAHASlRAS II. A Naga. Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, (2) Once Arjuna visited the mountain Mahendra.
Chapter 9 states that this Naga worships Varuna in (Sloka 13, Chapter 214, Adi Parva).
Varuna's assembly. (3) The presiding deity of this mountain sits in the
MAHASRAMA. A holy place. Mahabharata, Vana court of Kubera worshipping him. (Sloka 30, Chapter
Parva, Chapter 84, says that a person who spends a 10, Sabha Parva).
MAHENDRA VIKRAMAVARMA 465 MAHISA
(4) If one bathes in the pond of Ramatirtha on the Mahlratha was King who became prosperous by
a
top of this mountain one would get the benefit of per- accrued Kasyapa was his guru. The King
punya.
forming an Asvamedhayaga. (Sloka 16, Chapter 85, entrusted the affairs of the state to his ministers and
Vana Parva) . led a veryimmoral life. The country began to decay
(5) Brahma once went mountain and conducted
to this day by day and one day Kasyapa gave Dharmopadesa
a yaga there. (Sloka 22, Chapter 87, Vana Parva)
. to Mahlratha. The Guru said "Oh King, your body
:
(6) Yudhisthira during his pilgrimage visited this which was in a state of sinning has attained a state of
mountain. (Sloka 30, Chapter 114, Vana Parva). virtue by your association with me. Those well-versed
(7) Parasurama gave a darsana (Interview) to Yudhis- in the Vedas say that the body is of three different
thira on a Caturdasi day on this mountain. (Sloka 16, kinds. Firstly there is the one which is evil-natured
Chapter 117, Vana Parva). without either virtue or knowledge. Secondly, there is
(8) Haniiman when he was going in search of Slta the virtuous one with good conduct. Thirdly, there is
visited this mountain also along with the other monkeys. the agonising body which hides both virtue and evil.
(Sundara Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana). The body without virtue and salvation is always a
MAHENDRA VIKRAMAVARMA. A Sanskrit instructor body of sins. Your body has now become virtuous
in histrionics who lived in the 7th century A.D. He was by becoming devotional to your guru and attending to
a Pallava King and ruled his country during the period my words. You are now fit to do virtuous deeds and I
600 to 630 A.D. He
the author of the drama Matta-
is shall now make you enjoy the benefits of Vaisakhasnana
vilasa. Many from Mattavilasa have been quoted
verses (a bath with religious rites in the month of Vaisakha
later in many other books. KaficI was the capital of
(May) .
Vikramavarma. After that Kasyapa made him take the bath and worship
MAHESA. An incarnation of Siva. When
once Vetala, with proper Vedic rites in the month of Vaisakha. The
his gatekeeper was born on earth, Siva and Parvati
King became old and died. At once the servants of
incarnated as Mahesa and Sarada on earth. (Satarudra Kala (King of Death) came to fetch the soul of
Samhita, Siva Purana). Mahlratha. But angels from Mahavisnu came and
MAHESVARA. Another name of Siva. thrusting aside the agents of Kala took charge of the
MAKES VARAPURA. A holy place. If one worships soul of Mahlratha. Nymphs from above sang in praise
Sankara (Siva) at this place, all desires would be of the King whose sin had waned because ofVaisa-
fulfilled. (Sloka 129, Chapter 84, Vana Parva).
khapratassnana (early morning bath in the month of
MAHESVARlDHARA. A holy place. He who visits Vaisakha). The angels from Visnu carrying the soul
thisplace would have to his credit the benefit of doing of the King to Svarga took him through hell. The King
an Asvamedhayajna. (Sloka 117, Chapter 84, Vana heard the agonising cries of those suffering from
Parva ) .
different kinds of torture in hell. The King made
MAHEYA. A place of habitation of ancient India enquiries and feeling compassionate requested those in
(Sloka 49, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) .
charge of the hell to release those there in hell then
MAHlDASA. An acary a (Preceptor). He is believed by accepting a portion of the punya acquired by him.
to be the author of "Aitareya Brahmana" and The angels agreed to that and the King gave away the
"Aitareya Aranyaka". Punya he had acquired during one day by observing
According to Chandogyopanisad and Jaiminiya the Vaisakha vrata. At once all those in hell were
Upanisad Brahmana, Mahidasa lived for 117 years. released from the agony and were sent to heaven.
Although this acarya was a victim of diseases he was (Vaisakhamahatmyaprakarana, Padma Purana, Patala-
quite indifferent to the painful sufferings caused by khanda) .
either side. Mahavisnu at once sent his weapon Cakra MAHISAKA. (MAHISAKA) : A special tribe. They
against the lion. The lion was reduced to ashes by it, were once Ksatriyas but they became Sudras by their
but Mahisa rose up again in the form of a buffalo and evil mode of living. (Slokas 22, 23, Chapter 33, Anusa-
rushed forward. He gave a severe cut on Mahavisnu's sana Parva) Arjuna during his victory march con-
.
chest with his long and powerful horn. Mahavisnu quered this tribe in the south. (Chapter 83, ASvamedha
started fleeing to Vaikunfha. At the sight of this, Siva Parva) .
concluded that Mahisa was proof against killing and MAHISAKA (M). The name given by the Ancient
so he also fled to Kailasa riding on his bull. When people to modern Mysore. Bhisma Parva,
(M.B.
Visnu and Siva took to their heels, Brahma also flew to Chapter 9, Verse 59).
Satyaloka, riding on this swan. Although the leaders MAHISAKSA. An Asura who came into conflict with
leftthe field, the rest of the Devas under the leadership
Subrahmanya. (Skanda Purana) .
of Indra, encounterpd Mahisa again. Indra drew his MAHISANANA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
Vajra. The Astadikpalakas assisted him. The battle 25, Chapter 46, Salya Parva).
raged fiercely again. The Devas began to flee for life. MAHISMAN I. A King of the Hehaya royal family.
Taking this opportunity, Mahisasura forced his way It was this King who constructed on the banks of the
into Heaven. He planted his Daitya flag
highly. He river Narmada, Mahismatl, the capital city of
drove out all the remaining Devas. In this way the
Asuras took possession of Devaloka. The Devas took Kartaviryarjuna. It got the name of Mahismatl be-
cause it was constructed by Mahisman (Chapter 2,
shelter on the tops of mountains.
Brahmanda Purana).
Several centuries passed. The Devas assembled and
prayed to Brahma. He took them again to Vaikuntha.
MAHISMAN II. A King of the Vrsni dynasty. He was
the son of a King called Kurd. (Kuni is called Kunti
Siva also arrived there. The Devas submitted their
in some of the Puranas). Kuni had three other sons
grievances to Visnu. They prayed to him to devise
some method by which Mahisa could be killed. named Sabhajit, Bhadrasena and Durdama. (9th
Brahma had given him a boon that no Man was Skandha, Bhagavata).
capable of killing him. MAHISMATl. Sixth daughter of Angiras. Mahismatl
Mahavisnu said to them was known as AnumatI also. (Sloka 6, Chapter 218,
"By Virtue of the boon,
:
give her all our weapons." (i) King Nila was reigningin a country with Mahis-
As soon as Mahavisnu spoke
these words, a figure with matl as its Sahadeva, one of the Pandavas
capital.
dazzling effulgence issued forth from Brahma's face. during his victorious march to the south conquered
Both Visnu and Siva were amazed at the sight of this this country. (Chapter 31, Sabha Parva).
MAHODARA I 468 MAITRA II
(ii) DasaSva, tenth son of Iksvaku, had made this In the early yugas mountains had wings and they used
city his capital. (Sloka 6, Chapter 2, AnuSasana to fly and drop to the ground as they liked. People
Parva). used to live in fright always and at the request of the
(iii) Kartavlryarjuna who had made Mahi small the people Indra made the mountains stand in a row and
capital of his kingdom had subdued many kings. cut off their wings. At that time the god Vayu (wind)
(Sloka 3, Chapter 152, Anusasana Parva). (See under took away his friend Mainaka and put him in the
Kartavlryarjuna.) ocean. From that day onwards Mainaka and the
MAHODARA I. A serpent born to Kasyapa of his wife ocean developed an intimacy which even death could
Kadru. (Sloka Chapter 35, Adi Parva).
16, not wipe off. Hanuman -was the son of Vayu, the
MAHODARA II. One of the hundred sons of Dhrta- friend and saviour of Mainaka. It was because of that
rastra. Bhlmasena killed him in the great battle. that Mainaka gave refuge for Hanuman on his way to
(Sloka 19, Chapter 157, Drona Parva). Lanka. Because the ocean gave refuge to Mainaka
MAHODARA III. An ancient sage. (See under after its escape from the sword of Indra and because
Kapalamocana )
. the ocean (Sagara) was the creation of the sons of
MAHODARA IV. An army chief of Ravana. (Uttara Sagara, a King of the Iksvaku race, Mainaka felt
MAHODARA VIII. One of the sons of VisYavas born peaks. (Sloka 44, Chapter 145, Vana Parva).
of his wife Puspotkata. Hanuman killed this demon in MAINAKA II. A holy place on the west coast on the
the Rama-Ravana battle. (Yuddha Kanda, Chapter banks of the river Narmada. This is also on a moun-
70, Verse 66, Valmiki Ramayana). tain. (Sloka 1 1 Chapter 89, Vana Parva)
,
.
MAHODARYA, A King who is worthy of being thought MAINAKA III. Another mountain. (This is in
of every morning. (Sloka 55, Chapter 155, Anusasana Krauncadvipa. (Sloka 18, Chapter 12, Bhisma Parva).
Parva ) . MAINDA. One of the monkeys who helped Sri Rama
MAHODAYA. One Vasistha. Once
of the sons of in the search for Sita. Puranas give the following
Trisanku, King of Ayodhya, conducted a yaga with information regarding this monkey :
Visvamitra as Rtvik and for that yaga Visvamitra (i) Mainda lived in a cave in Kiskindha. While he
invited Vasistha and his son was living there Sahadeva one of the Pandavas came
Mahodaya also. But in Daksina
that way during his victory campaign
Mahodaya refused to respond to the invitation and
sent a message both Visvamitra and Bharata and fought with him. Sahadeva was defeated.
picturing
Trisanku as Candalas. But Mainda was pleased with him and gave him many
Enraged at this insulting
message Visvamitra cursed Mahodaya to become valuable presents and advised him that no difficulties
Sudra. (Verses 20-2 l,Bala Kanda, Chapter 59, Valmiki should be put against Dharmaputra achieving his
Ramayana ) . object. (Sloka 18, ChapterSl, Sabha Parva).
MAHODAYAPURI. The (ii) Mainda was the minister of Sugriva, King of the
capital city of Kubera. This
is called Devi Bhaga- monkeys. He was mighty, intelligent, and kind to
Alakapuri also. (8th Skandha,
vata) .
others. (Sloka 23, Chapter 28, Vana Parva) .
Bharata. The
chief of this place, Akrosa was conquered monkeys who went in search of Sita. (Sloka 19,
Chapter 283, Vana Parva) .
1) General information. A mountain. This mountain was only when they washed their faces with the water
the son of Himavan and given by Kubera that they could see things clearly.
father of Kraunca. (Sloka 13,
(v) Mainda was the son of A'vinidevas. (10th
Chapter 18, Harivarhsa) .
Mitravarunas is told in Devi Bhagavata. (iv) Once he discussed with Vyasa topics on Dharma.
There was once a celebrated emperor named Nimi in (Chapter 120, Anusasana Parva).
the Iksvaku line of Kings. Nimi was the twelfth son (v) When Sri Krsna died, the spiritualistic ideology of
oflksvaku. The agrahara found near the asrama of Dharmaputra became more dominant and he approach-
Gautama Maharsi, called Jayantapura was constructed ed Vidura for DharmopadeSa. Vidura sent him to
by Nimi. Once Nimi decided to perform a big yaga Maitreya. Dharmaputra went to the Asrama of
and of his father made pre-
after taking the consent Maitreya on the banks of the river Gaiiga and after
parations for the same. He
invited such great sages paying respects to him accepted Dharmopadesa
as Bhrgu, Angiras, Vamadeva, Pulastya, Pulaha and (Instruction in law, duty and morals) from him. (3rd
Rcika. He then went to their family preceptor Vasistha Skandha, Bhagavata).
and requested him to be the chief priest. But Vasistha MAITREYI. Wife of the sage Yajfiavalkya. She was
had already promised Indra to conduct a yaga for him one of the most learned and virtuous women in ancient
and so advised Nimi to postpone his yaga to a later India. There are innumerable references to her in the
date. But Nimi was unwilling to postpone his yaga and Puranas. (For details about her splendour see under
so he performed it with Gautama Maharsi as the Candrangada) .
chief priest. It took five hundred years for Nimi to MAITRl. Daughter of Daksa. Thirteen daughters of
complete the yaga. After five hundred years Vasistha Daksa were married to Dharmadeva. Maitri was one of
after comp'eting the yaga of Indra came to see Nimi them. Maitri bore a son named Abhaya to Dharma-
and found that he had already conducted the yaga deva. (4th Skandha, Bhagavata).
without him. Vasistha was angry and he cursed Nimi MAJJANA. A soldier of Subrahmanya. ( Sloka 70, Chap-
saying that Nimi would become bodiless. But powerful ter 45, Salya Parva).
Nimi cursed Vasistha also and separated his soul from MAKANDl. A city of the King Drupada. This city was
his body. on the banks of the river Gaiiga. (Sloka 73, Chapter
Griefstricken, Vasistha went to Brahma and com- 137. Adi Parva) See under KAPATABHIKSU.
.
his story to the king and placed before the king the (vi) Sri Krsna once conquered Malavadesa. (Sloka 16,
golden Seal of Visnu's emblem which Vibhlsana had Chapter 19, Drona Parva).
The king as per his promise gave Loha- (vii) Paras urama exterminated the Ksatriyas
of Malava-
given him.
jangha his
kingdom and Rupinika once more became desa. (Sloka 11, Chapter 70, Drona Parva).
his. The arrogance of Makaradarhstra was thus curbed. MALAVA(S). The Ksatriyas born to king Asvapati of
(Kathamukhalambaka, Kathasaritsagara ) . his wife Malavl are known as Malavas. (Sloka 49,
MAKARAGIRI. A mountain near Mahameru. Maha- Chapter 297, Vana Parva).
meru is two thousand yojanas long and six hundred MALAVl. The queen of Asvapati king of Madra. She
yojanas high and stands in the midst of eight mountains was the mother of Savitri. Asvapati begot of Malavl
two on each of the four sides. Makaragiri and Trisrnga a hundred sons called Malavas.
are on the north side. On the east are Jathara and Yama took to Kalapuri the soul of Satyavan who was
Devakuta, on the south are Kailasa and Karavlra and on shortlived. Savitri, wife of Satyavan, followed Yama.
the west are Pavamana and Pariyatra. (8th Skandha, Yama blessed Savitri and said she would have many
Devi Bhagavata) . children and gave life to Satyavan again. Yama said
MAKARAKSA Son of the demon Khara. In the epic
.
"Satyavan will live for four hundred years and you will
battle between Rama and Ravana after the death of get a hundred sons of him. Your father Aivapati also
Kumbha and Nikumbha the most prominent fighter will get a hundred sons of Malavi and the earth will
who entered the battle-field on the side of Ravana was get the name of Savitri also". Accordingly Miilavl got
Makaraksa. He gave a great fight to Rama but was in a hundred sons and they were called Malavas. (Chapter
the end killed by him. (Sarga 79, Yuddha Kanda, Val- 297, Vana
Parva) .
miki Ramayana) . MALAYA A son of King Rsabhadeva belonging to the
I.
MAKARADHVAJA I. A son of Hanuman. He was born Priyavrata dynasty. (Bhagavata, 5th Skandha).
to a crocodile living in the ocean as the perspiration MALAYA II. A son of Garuda (M. B. Sabha Parva
drops fell on her from Hanuman. (Sarakanda, Chapter 99, Verse 14).
Ananda Ramayana) . MALAYA III. A son of Garuda. (Sloka 14, Chapter 101,
MAKARADHVAJA II. One of the sons of Dhrtarastra. Udyoga Parva) .
He was killed in the great battle by Bhlmasena. (Chap- MALAYA IV. A mountain in South India. The following
ter 92, Drona Parva). pieces of information are gathered about this mountain
MAKARl. A river of Puranic fame. (Sloka 23, Chapter from the Puranas:
9, Bhisma Parva) .
(
1
) The sovereign deity of this mountain attends on
MAKSOPETA. A daitya. This daitya whirls round along Kubera in Kubera's assembly. (M.B. Sabha Parva,
with an Aditya, known as Visnu in the month of Chapter 10, Verse 32)
Karttika. (November) (12th Skandha, Bhagavata) .
(2) The Pandya and Cola Kings collected Sandal Paste
MALA. A
place of habitation of ancient India. (Sloka essence from theMalaya and Dardura mountains, filled
39, ChapterBhisma Parva).
9, them in golden pots and presented them to Yudhisthira.
MALADA. One of the wives of Sage Atri. (Brahmanda (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 52, Verse 33) .
Purana, Chapter 38 Verses 74-87) (3 ) The monkeys who went in search of Slta
. crossed
MALADA (S) A community of people who lived in this mountain. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 289, Verse
ancient India. From Mahabharata, Drona Parva, 44).
Chapter 27, we learn that they were the partisans of (4) Malaya is considered as one
of the seven chief
the Kauravas. mountains of India. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9,
MALAJA. An ancient town celebrated in the Puranas. It Verse 11)
is also known as "Angamalaja". (See under (A5IGA- (5) Once Mrtyu deity performed tapas on this moun-
MALAJA). tain. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter 54 Verse 26). 3
MALAT1KA. A follower of Subrahmanya.( Sloka 4, Chap- (6) In Tripuradahana, Siva used this mountain as the
ter 46,
Salya Parva). flagstaff of his chariot. (M.B. Drona Parva, Chapter
MALAVA. A Puranic river to be remembered. (Sloka 102, Verse 73).
25, Chapter 165, Anusasana Parva). MALAYA V. In Mahabharata there is a description
MALAVA. An ancient country on the west coast of India. of another Malaya Mountain besides the Malaya moun-
Mahabharata contains the following statements regard- tain of South India. When the sage Suka ascended
they advised him against it. The King yielded to the Ketumati and Malyavan, Sundari. Mali begot of
;
advice of his ministers. On one occasion Malayaprabha's his Vasudha four sons named Anila, Anala, Hara
wife
son Induprabha pleaded with his father and told him and Sampati. Sumali got of his wife Ketumati ten sons
that he should not oppress his subjects at the instigation named Prahasta, Akampana, Vikata, Kalakamukha,
of his evil ministers. He added that the King was their Dhumraksa, Danda, Suparsva, Samhrada, Prakvata and
"Kalpavrksa" and the subjects were his "Kamadhenus." Bhasakarna and four daughters named Vcka, Puspot-
But the King did not heed the advice of his son. He kata, Kaikasi and Kumbhinasi.
jokingly said thatInduprabha was also their "Kalpa- 4) Death. The three brothers attacked Devaloka under
vrksa". Stung by this taunt, Induprabha took a solemn the leadership of Mali and a great fight ensued and
oath that he would either become a "Kalpavrksa" or Mali died by the discus of Mahavisnu. (Uttara Rama-
lay down his life in the attempt. He left the palace at yana).
once and began an austere tapas. Indra was pleased and MALINI I. A river which flowed by the side of the
appeared before him. Receiving his blessing, Induprabha asrama of Kanva Muni. The river Cukka which flows
returned to his capital and stood there as a "Kalpa- through the district of Saharanpur today was the Malini
vrksa". He fulfilled the desires of the people. A few days of old. Some
believe that Malini starts from the Hima-
later, Indra came to the tree to test Induprabha. He layas. Sakuntala was born on the shores of this river.
told Induprabha "Your mission of service is over; now
:
(Sloka 10, Chapter 72, Adi Parva) .
you may come to Heaven". But he insisted that his MALINl II. One of the seven mothers of Subrahmanya.
subjects also should be taken with him to Heaven. (Sloka 10, Chapter 228, Vana Parva).
Indra
was pleased at the devotion and love of Induprabha for MALINl III. A demoness. This maiden was sent to
his subjects and agreed to take all his subjects also with serve Visravas, father of Ravana, by Kubera. Vibhi-
him. Induprabha gave up the form of the tree and sana was the son born to Vi;',ravas of Malini. (Sloka '.-',
resuming his own shape, accepted "Bodhisattvacarya". Chapter 275, Vana Parva) .
(Kathasaritsagara, Sasarikavati lambaka, SthTaranga). MALINl IV. A city of Puranic fame in the country
MALEYA(S). The collective name of the ministers of of Anga. Jarasandha gave this city to Karna. (Sloka 6,
Vibhisana The four ministers were Anala, Anila,
:
Chapter 5, Sabha Parva).
Hara and Sampati. (Uttar Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) MALINl V. The name of Sabari in her previous birth.
MALI. A demon of great valour. (See under Sabari).
1) Genealogy and There were two very brave
birth. MALINl VI. A nymph born to Puskara of Pramloca.
brothers in the tribe named Heti and Praheti.
demon (Chapter 8, Verse 14, Virata Parva). King Ruci
They were inseparable companions of Mahabali. Pra- married this nymph and they got a son named Raucya.
heti was unmarried and spent his time in religious The lord of Raucyamanvaritara was this Raucya.
sister of Kala and got a
pursuits. Heti married Bhaya (Markandeya Purana) .
son named Vidyutkesa. Vidyutkesa married Sala- MALINl VII. A brahmin woman of very bad character.
katanka daughter of Sandhya and got a son named Because of her evil deeds she was born as a dog in her
Sukesa. Suke' a married DevavatI, daughter of Gramanl, next birth. It observed then the Sukladvadasi Vrata
alias Manimaya. DevavatI delivered three sons, Mali and so was born again as the nymph Urvas'I. (2. 7. 24,
Sumali and Malyavan. Skanda Purana).
2) Boon to Mali. The three brothers, even while young MALLARASTRA. A country in ancient India. The
decided to acquire great strength and started performing capital of Mallarastra was the present city of
Kusl. At
penance. When their penance became very fierce the time of Mahabharata, this country was ruled by a
Brahma appeared before them in person and asked them King named Parthiva. There is a statement in the
what boon they wanted. They said, We must be invin-
'
Mahabharata that this King was defeated by Bhimasena.
cible, we must be destroyers of our enemies, we must When the Pandavas discussed the countries in which
have long life, we must become rich and powerful they were to live "incognito", the name of Mallarastra
ever remaining friendly with each other". Brahma was also mentioned. (Mahabharata, Sabha Parva,
granted the boon asked for. Chapter 30, Verse 3 Bhlsma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse
;
3) Family life. After obtaining the boon they went 44; Virata Parva, Chapter 1, Verse 13).
to ViSvakarma and asked him to construct a place of MALYAPINDAKA. A
serpent born in the family of
abode for them. Visvakarma was frightened and he Kasyapa. (Sloka 13, Chapter 103, Udyoga Parva).
hastened to suggest a beautiful place for them to live. MALYAVAN I. A
Parsada of Siva. The most intimate
He said, "There is a mountain named Trikuta on the friend of Malyavan was Puspadanta.
shores of the southern sea. There is a mountain on it 1) Curse of Malyavan, Once Siva was telling ParvatI a
called Subala. Its main top grazes the sky. Its four as he
story of the Gandharvas and Puspadanta heard it
sides have been beautifully chiselled. No birds fly to its sat hiding in a place nearby. Parvati got angry and
top. I have constructed there at the request of Indra was about when Malyavan intervened and re-
to curse
a beautiful city surrounded by walls of gold and adorned commended for mercy. ParvatI got angrier and cursed
on all sides with festoons of gold. That city is called them both to be born on earth as men. They begged
Lanka and you, demon-lords, can stay there. You will for relief and ParvatI said "In the deep depths of the
:
get glory and prestige which even Indta could not forest of Vindhya mountains there lives a Yaksa named
acquire in his Amaravati. If you live in Lanka with Supratlka who has been turned into a devil called
your followers you will be unconquerable". Kanabhuti by a curse. Puspadanta should narrate the
The happy'demons with their people went to Lanka. story he has now heard to Kanabhuti and he will
then
They married the daughters of a Gandharva woman be released from the curse. Kanabhuti would narrate to
named Narmada. Mall married Vasudha Sumali, ; Malyavan what he has heard from Puspadanta and
MALYAVAN II 473 MAMAlsIKAM
Kanabhuti would then be released from his curse. magha". Some say that it was so called because it was
Malyavan should then make public the story he has conducted on the day of Magha in the month of
heard and then he will also be released from the curse". Magha.
Puspadanta was born as Vararuci in the city of Kau- The festival was conducted under the auspices of the
sambi and Malyavan as Gunadhya in the city of supreme power in Malabar. For a long period Peru-
Supratisthita. (See under Gunadhya). mals were in power in Malabar and so Mamaiikam was
2 ) Another curse to Malyavan. By another curse Malya- conducted under the control of the Perumals. The last
van was born as a spider and Puspadanta as an elephant of the line of Perumals handed over the right to the
in the south of Bharata. (See under
Puspadanta). then mighty chief, the King of Valluvanad and for
3) Part in Devdsura battle. Released from curses Malyavan several years Mamankam was conducted under his aus-
reached the presence of Siva. It was the time of the pices. The foreign traders who came to Malabar, the
Devasura battle and Malyavan fought on the side of Mohammadans and the Portuguese, persuaded Samutiri
the devas. Malyavan played a prominent part in the (zamorin) to take control of this festival and with the
battle. Malyavan had to fight against a fierce archer help of the foreigners Samutiri wrested from the King
named Kolahala. Kolahala sent three arrows one each of Valluvanad the right of conducting the Mamankam.
on the forehead and the two shoulders. Malyavan After some time the King of Valluvanad made an
returned the fight with arrows. Then Kolahala showing attempt to get back the right from Samutiri. This
his swiftness of hand tormented him with several enraged Samutiri and there ensued a fight between
different weapons. Unmindful of this vehement attack them resulting in much shedding of blood. An agree-
Malyavan plucked a hillock and threw it at Kolahala. ment was reached that after twelve years each would
Then suddenly a fierce figure blazing with fire having relinquish the right in favour of the other. So after
nine pairs of hands and feet and three heads looking twelve years Samutiri was compelled to relinquish his
yellow in colour jumped out of the demon and made right but by resorting to many sly tactics he retained
Malyavan faint by the terrible heat it gave out. the right. The strength of Samutiri increased and he
Malyavan accepted defeat and ran away to the mountain. became a great power in Malabar. He was bold enough
(Chapter 13, Part 4, Agni Purana) . to send away the Portuguese from the coast and
MALYAVAN II. Son of the demon Sukesa. He was the Samutiri maintained his position till the advent of
brother of Mali and Sumali. Tippu Sultan to Malabar in the year 1 788 A.D. Every
This Malyavan was the father of Havana's mother. twelve years Samutiri had to show his might to retain
They were all living in Patala but when Ravana the right of the Mamarikam and those days of exhibit-
obtained his boon he sent away Kubera from Lanka ing strength were ghastly.
and became the ruler of Lanka. Malyavan and other The place of this Mamankam was at Tirunavaya in Tirur
demons followed Ravana to Lanka, and stayed with him taluk. A Siva temple of historic fame stands on the
confirming his sovereignty over the place. shores of the river Bharata flowing through Tirur taluk.
In the Rama-Ravana battle Sugriva stole the crown of There was an expansive sand beach on its shores,
Ravana and kicked him on his face. Ashamed of the become famous by being the scene of many socio-politi-
insult Ravana went back to his palace and the first per- cal events there. It was the venue of the mighty
son he saw was Malyavan. The old man had come to Nambudiris of Malabar to discuss matters of socio-
advise Ravana to give back Sita to Sri Rama. But political importance. Every year on the full-moon day
Ravana did not like the advice and tore to pieces the in the month of Magha all the ruling chiefs of Kerala
letter of advice. (For more details see under would assemble there and on a special dais there
Mall) .
MALYAVAN III. A mountain. This mountain is situ- Samutiri would sit with royal robes and a sword in his
ated between the mountains of Meru and Mandara in right hand presiding over the assembly. The sword was
the country of I lavrta. This mountain shines like gold. given to the Samutiris by Ceraman Perumal and was
(Chapter 7, Bhisma Parva). considered the symbol of undisputed sovereignty of
MALYAVAN IV. Another mountain near the Hima- Kerala. It was also a sanction to conduct the Maman-
layas. The Pandavas visited this mountain on their way kam. The Samutiris came prepared to give a fight if their
to the mountain Gandhamadana from the asrama of authority was challenged by anybody. The ruling
Arstisena. (Chapter 153, Vana Parva). Samutiri would send an invitation to all chiefs of
MALYAVAN V. A mountain situated in the country of Kerala. On either side of Samutiri would sit the rela-
Kiskindha. The fight between Bali and Sugriva took tives and friends of Samutiri. There would be an army
place near this mountain. This is on the banks of the ofNairs and Tiyyas ready outside and only after
river Timgabhadra. Uttara Ramayana states that the defeating them could anybody approach the dais of
palace of Sugriva was on the top of this mountain. Sri Samutiri. The dais was called Nilapattutara.
Rama stayed on the beautiful peak of this mountain for The whole atmosphere would resound with drummings
four months. (Sloka 40, Chapter 280, Vana Parva).' and shots from pop-guns. Majestic elephants adorned
MAMAiNlKAM. Mamankam was a very important national with golden headdresses would be arrayed there. The
festival of Kerala. This festival used to be conducted on conference of the chiefs would last for twelve days and
the sandy beach of Tirunavaya. It represented the crown- the festival for twentyfour days. The Mamankam attract-
ing ceremony of the sovereign of Kerala. There used to ed a huge crowd from far and wide because there were
be a grand assembly of all the artistes of Kerala. There then many items of interest and information. The
.
was an exhibition of the arts, trade and commerce of Mamankam commenced on a fixed day at an auspicious
the land attracting a huge crowd of people from differ- hour in the morning when the caparisoned elephants
ent parts of Bharata. Scholars believe that the word started moving to the accompaniment of drums and
Mamankam is derived from the Sanskrit word "Maha- pipes. The last Mamankam was in 1 755 A.D. By the
M AMATA 474 MANDAKINl VI
time of Marttanda Varma the centre of power shifted order Khyati, Bhuti, Sambhuti, Ksama, Priti, Sannati,
from Malabar to the south. Even today the memories Orjja, Anasuya and Prasuti.
of the same arc brightening spots in the history of MANASVINI. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. She
Malabar. became the wife of Dharmaraja. Candra was born of
MAMATA. Mother of the sage Dirghatamas. (See this Manasvini. (Sloka 19,
Chapter 66, Vana Parva).
under Dirghatamas). MANASYU. A King of the Puru dynasty. He was the
MAMMATA. An Indian scholar who lived about grandson of Puru and the son of Pravlra. His mother
1100 A.D. He was a great scholar and critic in Sanskrit was Surasenl. Manasyu begot of his wife Sauvirl three
and was born in Kashmir. His masterpiece was a sons named Sakta, Samhana and Vagml. (Sloka 6,
great book "Kavya Prakasa". It is divided into ten Chapter 94, Adi Parva) .
chapters. Each cRapter is entitled "Ullasa". There is a MANAVA. A scholar and an authority on Dharrna-
view expressed by some people that Mammata wrote sastra. He was the author of three books namely,
only the first nine chapters of this book and the last Manava Upapurana, Manavai'rautasutra and Manava-
chapter was written by another scholar named Alaka. vastulaksana.
Numerous commentaries on Mammata's Kavya PrakaSa MANAVARA. She was the wife of Arthalobha who
have been published. It is said that Patanjali's commenta- was the house-keeper of Bahubala, King of Kancl.
tor Kayya^a was the brother of Mammata. "Sabda This Manavara divorced her husband to marry one
Vyapfira Vicara" is another book written by Mammata. who was more wealthy. (Kathasaritsagara) .
MAMTI I. The disciple of Gautama and the guru of MANAVARJAKA. A place of habitation of ancient
Atreya. (Brhadaranyaka Upanisad). India. (Sloka 50, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva).
MAMTI II.' A devotee of Siva. He was the father of MANAVl. A prominent river of ancient India. (Sloka
the famous Kalabhiti. (See under Kalabhiti) . 32, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) .
MANAGARVA. A celestial maiden who was born as a MANDAGA I. A river of Puranic fame. (Sloka 33,
she-monkey in the vicinity of the Himalayas by a curse Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) .
of Brahma. She became the wife of a monkey named MANDAGA II. A place in the island of Saka. The
Kesari. She was named Anjana and was the mother Sudras who reside there are all virtuous people.
of Hanuman. ( For details see under Hanuman ) .
Bhisma Parva)
(Sloka 38, Chapter 9, .
MANASA I. A serpent born of the family of Vasuki. MANDAKA I. One of the sons born to the Yaksa
This serpent was burnt to death at the Sarpasatra of Manibhadra of his wife
Punyajani.
Janamejaya. (Sloka 5, Chapter 57, Adi Parva). MANDAKA II. A place of habitation of Puranic fame
MANASA II. A serpent born of the family of Dhrta- in ancient India. (Sloka 43, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) .
sons of Brahma. They are Bhrgu, Pulastya, Pulaha, MANDAKINl V. AkaSa Gaiiga.
Kratu, Ahgiras, Marlci, Daksa, Atri and Vasistha. MANDAKINl VI. One of the two wives of Vis"ravas,
They are nine in number. (Chapter 7, Arhsa 1, Visnu son of Pulastya. A son, Kubera was born to her by
Purana) They are all Prajapatis and their wives are in
. the blessing of Siva. (Padma Purana, Patala Khanda) .
MAIVDALAKA 475 MANDHATA
MANDALAKA. A born of the family of
serpent MANDARA VAT I. A heroine in Kathasaritsagara. She
Taksaka. This was burnt death in the Sarpasatra
to is the heroine of the story told by the second Vetala to
of Janamejaya. (Sloka 8, Chapter 57, Adi Parva). King Trivikramasena. (See under Vetala).
MANDAPALA. A sage. This sage went to the land of MANDAVl. Wife of Bharata. Rama married Sita;
the Manes by his powers of penance but returned to Bharata, Mandavi; Laksmana, Urmila and Satrughna,
earth unable to obtain merit there. He then married Srutaklrti (Sarga 73, Balakanda, Valmiki Ramayana) .
a bird and led a family life. (For details see 8th para Mandavi, Urmila and Srutaklrti were the daughters
under Khandavadaha) .
of'Kusadhvaja, brother of Janaka. (Bala Kanda,
MANDARA I. A tortoise which is a character in the Kamba Ramayana) Bharata got two sons of Mandavi
.
book Pancatantra. (See under Pancatantra) . named Subahu and Surasena. Both of them defeated
MANDARA II. A brahmana who is greatly extolled in the Gandharvas and established cities one on each
Sivapurana. (See under Rsabha) . side of the river Sindhu. (Uttara Ramayana).
MANDARA. One of the wives of Visvakarma. The MANDAVISARPIIVl. A louse, a character in a story
monkey named Nala was the son of Mandara. This of Pancatantra. (For details see under Pancatantra).
monkey was the chief of those who helped Sri Rama MAl^DAVYA. A sage. He is
known as Animaudavya
to build a bridge to Lanka. Visvakarma had once also. Once Ravana beat Mandavya because of his
blessed Mandara saying that her son would one day not respecting Ravana. That da Mandavya cursed
/
( 2 ) During the time of the churning of Ksirabdhi wandering in the forest he happened to reach a club
(ocean of Milk) the serpent Ananta brought this of sages. Yuvanasva went and sat in their midst. He
mountain as per instructions from Mahavisnu. (Sloka was happy to be in their midst but was worried in his
6, Chapter 18, Adi Parva). mind and so he sent up deep sighs as he sat there sad and
(3) It was this mountain that was used as the Mantha silent. The sages asked him why he looked so sad and
(churning stick) when the milk-ocean was churned. the King crying like a child told them the cause of his
(Sloka 13, Chapter 18, Adi Parva). grief. The sages took pity on him and made him
(4) During the time of churning the Milk-Ocean conduct the yaga 'Indradaivata'. They brought a jug
many inhabitants of Patala and animals in the ocean of water made 'potent by recitals of mantras to be
were killed because of the rubbing of this mountain. given to the queens to make them pregnant and placed
(Sloka 26, Chapter 18, Adi Parva). the pot in the yagasala. The yaga was coming to an
(5) This mountain resides in the' court of Kubera as end. One day the King felt unusually thirsty and
Devatma. (Sloka 81, Chapter 10, Sabha Parva). unwilling to disturb the sages who were taking rest the
(6) This mountain is situated near Kailasa. Eighty- King entered the yagasala and finding a jug there
eight thousand Gandharvas and four times as much of full of water drank from it and quenched his thirst,
Yaksakinnaras reside on the top of this mountain, little knowing that it contained the water made
along with Kubera and a yaksa named Manivara. potent for a specific purpose by mantras. The next day
(Sloka 5, Chapter 139, Vana Parva). when the sages went to the yagasala they found the
(7) Once in a dream Arjuna conducted a trip to jug almost empty and were worried and started
Kailasa accompanied by Sri Krsna and on his way he making enquiries. The King then confessed what he
halted at this mountain. The mountain then shone had done. The sages said that it was futile to fight
with the presence of nymphs and heavenly songsters. against fate and somehow finished the yaga and went
(Sloka 33, Chapter 80, Drona Parva). to their asramas.
(8) In destroying the notorious demon trio called The King became pregnant and after ten months a
Tripuras, Siva used this mountain as a bow. (Sloka 76, child came out bursting open the right side of his
Chapter 202, Drona Parva). stomach. The King consulted his ministers as to
(9) Once when the Sage Astavakra was conducting a what should be done with the child and on their
tour of the northern parts he stayed on this mountain advice the child was taken to the forests and left
for some time. (Sloka 54, Chapter 19, Anusasana there. But the child was protected by the Devas and
Parva) .
MANDHATA 476 MANDODARl II
they enquired among themselves as to whose breast- (vi) Once Mahavisnu came to Mandhata disguised as
feeding it would get when Indra appeared and said Indra and conversed with him on 'Rajadharma' (duties
"Mam Dhata", meaning it would drink me. That was and responsibilities of a King.) (Sloka 16, Chapter 64,
how the child got the name 'Mandhata'. Indra thrust Santi Parva).
the child's big toe into its mouth and the child began to (vii) Utatthya, son of Angiras, once taught Mandhata
suck milk through it. Mandhata who grew thus drink- the outlines of Rajadharma. (Chapter 90, Santi
ing its own toe became a mighty man of renown. (7th Parva).
Skandha, Devi Bhagavata) .
(viii) Mandhata conquered the whole world in one
3) Administration of the state and marriage. When day. (Sloka 16, Chapter 124, Sand Parva) .
Mandhata became a man of great strength his father (ix) On another occasion Brhaspati conversed with
died and he ascended the throne and became an him on the subject of Godana. (The giving away of
Emperor of great fame. He conquered many kingdoms. cows as gifts). (Sloka 4, Chapter 76, Anusasana
He made his enemies flee from him. Because he inti- Parva) .
midated the dasyus he got the name Trasadasyu. He (x) Mandhuta gave away as gifts millions of cows.
married the perfect-figured chaste daughter Bindumati (Sloka 5, Chapter 85, Anusasana Parva) .
of Sasabinduraja. She got two sons named Purukutsa (xi) Mandhata hated non-vegetarian food. (Sloka 61,
and Mucukunda. Chapter 115, Anusasana Parva).
The Puranas state that Mandhata had another son MANDODARI I. (MANDODARl). (In South India
named Ambarisa and fifty daughters who were all the name Mandodarl is current). Wife ofRavana.
married to a sage named Saubhari. The Uttara Ramayana contains a story about the
4 How he caused rains in the country. Mandhata ruled
) previous history of Mandodarl.
the country very virtuously without at any time going Maya, an asura, was born to Kasyapaprajapati of his
against truth and justice and his country became wife Danu. Once Maya went to Devaloka to see the
prosperous. Once it so happened that there were no dances of the celestial maidens there. Devas came to
rains for three successive years in the country and know that Maya was in love with the nymph Hema
the greatly worried King went to the forests to know and they married her to Maya. Maya went to the
from the great sages there the reason for such a southern valley of Himavan and lived there with Hema
calamity. The sages told the King thus "Oh King, :
constructing there a city called Hemapura. They got
of all yugas Krtayuga is the best. This yuga is a two sons Mayavl and Dundubhi. But they grieved over
brahmin-predominant one and Dharma stands on the lack of a daughter and she went to a side of
four legs. Penance is for brahmins only and no man Himavan and started penance there to get the bless-
of any other caste can do penance in this yuga. But ings of Siva.
in your country a Sudra is performing penance and Once a celestial damsel named Madhura after observing
that is why the clouds refuse to shower rains. Kill him Somavaravrata went to Kailasa to pay obeisance to
and then the evil will go". Hearing this Mandhata Siva. Parvati was absent from the place then, having
replied; "I will never kill an innocent ascetic. Teach gone to attend the birthday celebrations of one of her
me my duty at this time The
sages were
of peril". sons. So Madhura met Siva sitting lonely and this led to
pleased at the reply of the King and advised him thus : a clandestine sexual union between them. When Parvati
"Oh King, start observing Vrata on the ekadasi day. returned she saw traces of the ashes from the body of
(
Eleventh day in each half of a month) The ekadasi
. Siva on the naked breast of Madhura and Parvati in
which falls in the bright half of Bhadrapada is called her anger cursed Madhura to live in a well for twelve
'Padmanabha', and if you observeby its cogency you
it years as a frog. Siva was stupefied at the curse and he
will get not only rains but prosperity and happiness free went to the well and consoled her by saying that she
from misery of any kind. You must persuade your would after the twelve years of life as a frog become
subjects also to observe this". a very beautiful maiden and would be married by a
The King on returning to his palace started observing man of great fame and valour. It was near this well
'ekadasi' along with his subjects of all the four castes that Maya and his wife were performing penance
and then it started to rain. Rains came in plenty and to get a daughter.
all the crops were rich. The subjects became happy. After twelve years the frog changed itself into a beauti-
(Chapter 59, Padma Purana) . ful maiden and cried loudly from the well. Hearing
5) Other details. the cry Maya and Hema, who were nearby peeped into
Mandhata had to fight once against Lavanasura the well and seeing the young girl took her home and
(i)
but had to accept defeat before the god-given spear brought her up giving her the name Mandodarl. Ravana
which Lavanasura possessed. (Uttara Ramayana). returning after his victory march by that way visited
Maya and seeing the girl fell in love with her and
1
about the yajna of Mandhata. (Sloka 81, Chapter 29, MANDODARl II. A virtuous princess of the kingdom
Santi Parva). of Simhala. She determined to live an unmarried life
MAIiJDOKA 477 MAWIBHADRA I
but was forced by destiny to marry a cruel and un- fedit with breast milk. It was that child who later on
charitable husband. The story of this Mandodarl as became Maagala. (Skanda Purana) .
related to Devi by Mahisasura is given below. (3) Mangala was born of the blood drops of Siva.
Gandrasena, King of Simhala, got of his wife GunavatI (Bhavisya Purana).
a very beautiful daughter named Mandodan. Even (4) Mangala was the son of Bharadvaja. (Ganesa
when she was ten years old the King started searching Purana) .
for a suitable husband for her. He found out Kambu- (5) Mangala was the son of Bhumidevi. Devas, sages,
griva son of Sudhanva, King of Madradesa and inform- Brahmanas, Manus and Gandharvas all worshipped
ed his daughter about his desire to make him his Bhumi at the time of Varahakalpa. It is also said in
son-in-law. But Mandodarl replied that she never intend- theVedas that Bhumidevi is the wife of Mahavisnu's
ed to marry and desired to spend her life worshipping incarnation as Varaha. Mangala alias the planet Mars
God. Candrasena felt miserable at her reply. was born to Bhumidevi of Mahavisnu as Varaha. (9th
Years went by and Mandodarl became a blooming Skandha. Devi Bhagavata) .
lady and yet she remained firm in her determination. MA&GALACAISPIKA. A devi. Vedas and Vedavids
One day she was playing in the royal gardens with her alike praise this goddess who is always interested in
companions when the prince of Kosala, Virasena came granting the requests pf her devotees. Because she
that way by mistake. The extraordinary beauty of the showers prosperity on her devotees she became known
princess attracted him and he made a request to her as Mangalacandika. There is another version that she
through her companions to marry him. But Mandodarl got the name because she was worshipped by Mangala
refused. (Kuja) and because she grants the requests of Mangala.
Time rolled on and soon the marriage of her younger Yet another version is that she got the name because
sister Indumail came. Gandrasena invited all the neigh- she was worshipped by the King Mangala chief of
bouring Kings for that. The King of Madra Carudesna the seven islands. Born of the species of Durgadevi she
was also present for the marriage. The King was very is very kind and affectionate to her devotees. Parama-
charming to look at but was very bad in character. siva worshipped this Devi before he went to destroy
Mandodarl was attracted by his external beauty and she the demon-trio Tripuras. (9th Skandha, Devi Bhaga-
expressed her willingness to marry him. Her father was vata) .
immensely pleased and on the nearest auspicious day MAT^I I. A serpent born of the family of Dhrtarastra.
she was given in marriage to Carudesna. This serpent was burnt to death in the Sarpasatra of
Mandodari went to the palace of Carudesna and they Janamejaya. (Sloka Chapter 57, Adi Parva).
19,
lived happily for some time. One day she saw her MAIVI II. A sage. This sage was a member of the
husband having sexual acts with the wife of one of the Brahmasabha. (Sloka 24, Chapter 11, Sabha Parva).
palace servants. She reproached her husband and yet MA1VI III. One of the two Parsadas given to Subrah-
two days later she saw her husband with another
servant girl. She was greatly disappointed and she
manya by Candra. The other one was named Sumani.
(Sloka 32, Chapter 45, Salya Parva).
left the palace for the forests where she started perform-
MAI^I IV. A son born to Kas"yapaprajapati of his wife
ing penance.
Kadru. Mani lived near the city of Girivraja. This ser-
MAl^DUKA. A class of horse. These highclass horses
pent did penance to please Siva and obtained a boon
helped Arjuna in his campaign of victory. (Sloka 6, that Garuda should give refuge to him. (31 6, Adi :
MA5IGALA. A deity in the form of Kuja or Planet Mars. take him to the temple and keep him there for the night.
There are different versions in the Puranas regarding Next morning he would take the couple before the
the birth of Mangala. King and exposing the sin would get them killed by
(1) SatI committed suicide at the Daksayaga and Siva the King.
greatly griefstricken at of his wife started
the loss Once a Vaisya named Samudradatta committed adult-
penance. A sweat drop fell from the forehead of Siva ery and another house-holder found it out and took
doing severe penance and Mangala was the son born them to the temple of Manibhadra and kept them there.
of that drop. Siva then installed Maiigala among the
SaktimatI, the virtuous wife of Samudradatta came to
Navagrahas and according to the science of astrology know of the mishap to her husband and the intelligent
this Graha is considered the protector of the landed woman went to the temple with materials for worship
property and the wife of a person. (Siva Purana, Rudra and under the pretext of worshipping made the priest
Sarhhita 1-10 and Skanda Purana 4-1-17). of the temple open the doors. When she entered
(2) Siva married Vikesi daughter of Hiranyaksa. One Samudradatta felt ashamed and sat with his head bent
day while they we^-e engaged in sexual plays Agni down. SaktimatI gave the other woman her own dress
came to their presence. Enraged at this the eyes of Siva taking hers in return and sent her out as SaktimatI with-
blazed with anger and a drop of hot water from his out raising the least suspicion in the priest. Then she
eyes fell on the face of Vikesi and she became pregnant. remained with Samudradatta, and when in the morn-
After some days Vikesi found it impossible to bear the ing officers of the King came to take them they were
embryo of Siva thus formed and she aborted it. A surprised to find that the culprits were really husband
child was born and the goddess of earth took it and and wife. The house-holder was punished for giving
MANIBHADRA II 478 MANIKYAVACAKAR
wrong information and Samudradatta was set free with MANIBHADRA. A Parsada of Siva. (See under Candra-
his wife. (Kathamukhalambaka, Kathasaritsagara) . sena II).
MANIBHADRA II. A King of the Lunar dynasty. This MANICARA. A Yaksa. In the fight between Ravana
King had many children of his wife Kavika. Of these and Kubera this Yaksa helping Kubera created great
seven sons learned magic from Maya. The seven palm havoc in the army of Ravana. (Uttara Ramayana) .
trees which Sri Rama broke by an arrow while on his MAiyiDVlPA. The abode of Devi. Devi resides in this
search for Sita were but the cursed forms of these seven island which is far beyond Kailasa. (3rd Skandha, Devi
sons. The Puranic story relating to Sri Rama giving them Bhagavata) .
relief from the curse is narrated in the Kiskindha Kanda MANlGRlVA. A brother of Nalakubara. (See under
ofKamba Ramayana. Nalakubara).
The seven sons of Manibhadra after learning magic MANIJALA. A prominent river in Sakadvlpa. (Sloka
from Maya created a huge cobra and travelled all 32, Chapter 11, Bhlsma Parva).
over the world on it. One day they reached a MANIKANCANA. A land portion of Sakadvipa situated
mountain near Rsyamukacala. They saw the sage near Syamagiri. (Sloka 26, Chapter 11, Bhlsma
Agastya coming that way and just to tease him they Parva ) .
coiled that cobra and hid it beneath the ground in the MANIKUTTIKA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
form of a circle and they themselves stood on it as seven 20 Chapter 46, Salya Parva) .
palm trees in a circle and caused obstruction to the sage MANIKYAVACAKAR (MARKKA- VASAHAR) A . de-
in his path. The sage as he came near the trees knew votee and poet whoTamilnadu. He is believed
lived in
by his spiritual powers what trick had been played on to have lived during the period between the eighth and
him and said cursing, stand like this for ever".
"May you ninth centuries A.D. He was born in Tiruvadavur in
The princes knew
hideousness of the curse and
the an Adisaiva brahmin family. Tiruvadavur was a village
pleaded for redress and the sage said, "After centuries near Madura, the capital of Pandya kingdom. His
the incarnation of Visnu as Sri Rama would come and father was Sambhupadas'rita and mother Sivajnanavati.
give you salvation". The name given by his parents to Manikyavacakar is
The princes stood there as trees grown to unusual heights still unknown. Because he was born in Tiruvadavur
with round black trunks casting shades all around. everybody called him Tiruvadavurar. He became a
Underneath grew a shrubbage deep and thick and the scholar in his sixteenth year. The Pandya king called
seven trees stood' there presenting to the onlookers a him to his palace and appointed him as his minister.
sight of wonder. He gave him the honour of the title 'Tennavar Brahma-
Sri Rama and party reached the place of the seven trees. rayar'. Manikyavacakar showed more interest in devo-
Suddenly Rama took his bow and arrows and pressing tional matters than in matters of the state.
his foot on a stone beneath sent an arrow and to the Once when the King was holding his durbar he got in-
wonder of all, the seven trees standing in a circle fell formation that in one of the eastern ports had landed a
all together and the arrow returned to his quiver. set of good war-horses for sale. He sent Tiruvadavurar
When Rama pressed the stone on the ground with his to that place. The minister, when near the port of
foot he was pressing on a vital point on the head of the Tirupperundurai, heard a sound of Vedic utterances and
cobra lying coiled in a circle under the ground bearing he immediately went to the place from where the sound
the seven trees. The cobra got a shock and instantly came. He saw Lord Siva sitting under a tree in the guise
straightened itself for a second and the trees thus came of a Guru. Forgetting all state affairs he became engross-
in a row straight on the path of the arrow of Sri Rama. ed in the meditation of Siva. Suddenly he developed
They were all cut at once and before they had time to a talent for poetry and music and sweet attract-
fall down the serpent coiled itself again and regained ive poems in praise of Siva started flowing
his position and so the trees fell down in the
original from his tongue. Siva was immensely pleased and gave
circle inwhich they stood. All these happened so quickly him the name Manikyavacakar meaning that every
that nobody was able to see what happened and so every Vacaka (sentence) coming out of his tongue was equal
body was surprised to see all the seven trees in a circle in value to a manikya (Ruby) The guru gave him a
.
falling down by a single arrow. The princes were thus ruby too. Manikyavacakar in the garb of a mendicant
relieved from the curse. joined a troop of Siva devotees and spent all the money
MANIBHADRA III. he had for the service of the devotees of Siva and also
1
) General information. A
Yaksa. He was a deity of for the reconstruction of a dilapidated Siva temple in
merchants and travellers. (Sloka 130, Chapter 64, Vana Tirupperundurai.
Parva) . Manikyavacakar reached Madura and informed the
King that the horses would arrive at the palace on the
2) Other details.
troopers went back without any trouble. The horses and Bhurisravas. (Sloka 53, Chapter 23, Drona
were put in stables and Manikyavacakar went to his Parva).
asrama. MANIMAN II. A serpent. This serpent is a member
At midnight all the new horses in the stables turned in- of the court of Varuna. (Sloka 9, Chapter 9, Sabha
to jackals and roamed about in the streets howling Parva) .
Vanti. She earned her livelihood by selling sweetmeats. MANIMAN VI. A parsada of Siva. This parsada joined
The servants of the king ordered her also to join the hands with Virabhadra to injure the sage Bhrgu at the
work of the dam. She prayed to Paramasiva and Daksayaga. (4th Skandha, Bhagavata).
then a young man came to the old woman and offered MANIMANTHA. A mountain. (Sri Krsna performed
to work for her in her stead. The young man representing penance here to please Siva for crores of years together.
Vanti went Vaigai and started to work for her. When
to (Sloka 33, Chapter 18, Anusasana Parva).
the king to inspect the work he found the young
came MANIMATlPURl (MANIMATPATTANAM) A meet- .
man not doing his work satisfactorily and struck him ing place of the asuras. The notorious asura Ilvala
on his back with a whip. A basketful of sand the young lived here for some time. (Sloka 4, Chapter 94, Vana
man was carrying fell down and the work of the dam Parva) The demons Nivatakavacas hid here in this
.
was instantly completed. Not only that; all the persons city and Ravana challenged them to a fight after coming
including the king felt as though they were struck. to the gates of the city. (Uttara Ramayana) .
Vanti attained Svarga and Manikyavacakar went to MANIMAYA. Father-in-law of a demon called Sukesa.
Cidambaram. The king repented. Sukesa married DevavatI daughter of Manimaya and had
Manikyavacakar saw Siva in person several times. Many three sons, Malyavan, Suma.li and Mali. (Uttara Rama-
wonderful events happened at the Cidambaram temple yana ) .
after the arrival of Manikyavacakar there. The King MAIMINAGA. I. A serpent born to
Kasyapa Prajapati of
of Lanka hearing about the greatness of Manikyavacakar his wifeKadru. This serpent resides near Girivraja( Sloka
brought his dumb daughter to him and she gained the 50, Chapter 21, Sabha Parva).
power of speech. The Buddhist saints of Lanka came MANINAGA II. A sacred place. If one spends a night
to Manikyavacakar and entered into philosophical here one would get the benefit of making a thousand
discourse with him. They became dumb. The king of Godanas. If one eats from the offerings made to a deity
Lanka and his followers became devotees of Siva. there one would be free from the effects of any snake-
Manikyavacakar sat in his a;'rama and composed divine poison. (Sloka 106, Chapter 84, Vana Parva).
songs. Once Siva in the guise of a brahmin came there MANINl. Mother of Visravas, father of Ravana. She
and copied the songs written by him. Even while he was the daughter of the sage Trnabindu. ( See under
was reciting his divine songs to the devotees his ?oul Trnabindu).
left his body and merged with that of Siva.
MANIPARVATA. A mountain of Puranic fame.
The divine songs in praise of Siva by Manikyavacakar Narakasura kept the sixteen thousand and one hundred
constitute the eighth Khanda of Saivite hymns by name maidens he had stolen in this mountain. (Daksinatya
"Tirumurai". They include "Tiruvacakam" and Patha, Chapter 38, Sabha Parva) .
"Tirukkovaiyar". The Tiruvacakam contains 654 verses MANIPRAVALA. A kind of language formed by mixing
in 51 hymns and the Tirukkovaiyar contains 400 verses.
Sanskrit and Malayalam together. "Bhasasamskrta-
All these are songs in praise of Siva sung on different
yogo manipravalam". This is its definition. A great
occasions. (Divyacaritam).
many of the important literary works in Malayalam
MANIMAN I. A king. Mahabharata gives the following are in Manipravalam.
details about him.
MANIPURA (MANIPUR) . The birth place of Citran-
(i) Maniman was born of an aspect of Vrtra, son of the
gada wife of Arjuna. Arjuna during his pilgrimage
asura Danayu. (Sloka 44, Chapter 67, Adi Parva) .
came to this place and after marrying Citraiigada stayed
(ii) This king
was present at the marriage of Draupadl. there for three years. Babhruvahana was the son of
(Sloka 22, Chapter 185, Adi Parva). Citrahgada. (See under Citrangada).
(iii) Bhlmasena
while on his early victory march defeat- MANIPUSPAKA. Sahadeva, one of the Pandavas, used
ed this king. (Sloka 1 1 Chapter 30, Sabha Parva)
,
. toblow a conch named Manipuspaka. (Sloka
16,
(iv) This king fought on the side of the Pandavas dur- Chapter 25, Bhisma Parva).
ing the great Kuruksetra battle. (Sloka 20, Chapter 4, MATISKANDHA. A serpent born of the family of
Udyoga Parva) . Dhrtarastra. This serpent was burnt to death in the
(v) Maniman was killed in the fight between Maniman Sarpasatra of Janamejaya. (Chapter 52, Adi Parva).
MANWAHANA 480 MANOGU.NA
MANIVAHANA. Another name for King Kusamba. 3) Mankana falls in love with Sarasvati Devi. One day
(Chapter 63, Adi Parva) . SarasvatidevI came to the place of his residence in the
MAiyiVAKRA. One of the sons of the Vasu, Apa. guise of a very attractive woman. Mankana had seminal
MAl^IVARA. One of the sons born to Rajatanatha of emission on seeing her and the semen fell on the surface
his wife Manivara. This Yaksa married KratusthaKVs of the water. The sage stored the water with semen
daughter Dcvajanl. The sons born to them are called in a pot and soon seven sons were born from it. They
'Guhyakas'. (Brahmanda Parana, 3.7.127-131). all became sages named Viiyuvega, Vayubala,
M.VyiVARA. A Yaksa. He lives on the mountain of Vayuha, Vayumandala, Vayujvala, Vayuretas and
Mandara. (Sloka 5, Chapter 139. Vana Parva) .
Viiyucakra. (Chapter 83, Vana Parva and Chapter 38,
MA&IVATTAPPARA. A rock of Puranic fame. Ravana Salya Parva).
spent one night on this rock with Rambha. Rambha 4) Birth of Kadaligarbhd. Besides the seven sons
was going to her lover Nalakubara one night alone and Mankana got a daughter named Kadallgarbha. Menaka
Ravana seeing her on the way carried her away to was her mother. (See under Kadallgarbha).
this place. Ramayana) 5) Mankana diverts the river Sarasvati. It was sage
(Uttara .
MANJULA. A river of Puranic fame. (Sloka 34. Mankana who invoked the river Sarasvati and made
Chapter Bhisma Parva)
9, . it flow through Kuruksetra. Chapter 38, Vamana
MANJUGHOSA. A nymph. The sage Medhavi cursed Purana) .
this nymph and made her into a devil. (See under MAlvIKI I. A great sage. It was Bhisma, while he was
Medhavi) .
lying on his bed of arrows who narrated the story of
MA5IKA. A place of habitation in the island of this sage. Manki was an aspirant of worldly things and
Saka. This place is inhabited mostly by dutiful once he got two bullocks. He was ploughing with them
brahmins. (Chapter 1 1, Bhisma Parva). one day when a camel came and carried them away.
MA&KAI^A (MA&KANA). A barber of VaranasI Disappointed he came to the aYrama and lamented
who was a great devotee of Ganesa. During the time of deeply over it. This lamentation became known later
King Divodasa II Siva wanted to destroy the city of as the famous Mankiglta. By the time the glta. reached
KasI and deputed his son Ganesa (Nikumbha) for the its end the mind of the sage was changed and he became
same. one bereft of all worldly desires and he acquired
Ganesa came to Kasi and appearing in person before moksa. (Chapter 177, Sand Parva) .
his devotee Mankana, asked him to build a temple on MAJSlKI II. A sage who lived in Tretayuga. He was
the outskirts of KaI. Mankana completed the temple the son of Kausltakibrahmana and was a Vaisnavite of
and Gane'a (Nikumbha) installed himself in that great virtue. This sage had two wives named Surupa
temple getting for it the name Nikumbhamandira. and Virupa. Both had no sons and as per the advice of
Devotees began to flow into the temple and Nikumbha his guru he went to Sabarmatitata and did penance
sitting there answered the prayers of all. But he never there. After several years of rigorous austerities he got
fulfilled the prayer of the King to have a son. This very many The place where Maiikimaharsi
children.
annoyed Divodasa and he destroyed the temple and sat and did penance was known later as Maiikitlrtha.
then Nikumbha cursed that the city of Kail would It is also called Saptasarasvata. In Dvaparayuga the
become desolate. Siva's desire thus became fulfilled. Pandavas visited the place and gave it the name Sapta-
(92. 33, Vayu Purana and 3; 67, 43. Brahmanda dhara also. (Uttara Khanda, Padma Purana) .
his little finger and lo! the flow from the finger changed lives do they destroy to fill their belly. They must be
from pot-herb juice to sugar-candy juice. Vamana demons to do so." Both of them died after some days
Purana states that it was ashes which flowed from the and the Brahmana was born as a fisherman and the
finger. The hermit was ashamed. He understood that Candala a prince. Both of them were re-born near
the guest was Siva and he fell at his feet. Siva blessed their abodes in their previous birth and both remem-
the hermit and granted him boons. bered their previous lives. The Candala was happy but
MANOHARA I 481 MANUSMRTI
the Brahmana regretted his fault. (Tarajiga 1, Madana- got of his first two wives six sons and of his third wife
mancukalambaka, Kathasaritsagara) .
Nisa, a daughter and seven sons. (Chapter 223, Vana
MANOHARA I. Wife of the Vasu, Soma. Varcas was Parva ) .
born of her first. Then she had three more sons named MANU III. A celestial maiden born to Kasyapa of
Sisira, Prana and Ramana. (Sloka 22, Chapter 66, Adi Pradha. (Chapter 59, Verse 44, Adi Parva) .
Astavakra went to the court of Kubera this nymph Once a hunter wounded a
the origin of this pond.
gave a performance in dancing in honour of that sage. deer with his arrow and the deer ran and dropped
(Sloka 45, Chapter 19, Anusasana Parva) .
pond. When it rose up from the water
itself into the
MANOJAVA I. The eldest son of the Vasu Anila. it became a man. From that day onwards the pond
Anila begot this son of his wife Siva. (Sloka 25, became holy and got the name Manusatirtha. (Sloka
Chapter 66, Adi Parva) . 65, Chapter 86, Vana Parva).
MANOJAVA II. During the Manvantara of Caksusa, MANUSMRTI. A code of conduct written by Manu
the sixth Manu, Indra was Manojava, the leader of alias Manavacarya who was the father of man- kind for
the Devas. (Arhsa 3, Chapter 160, Visnu Purana) . the harmonious existence of a social life. The book
MANOJAVA III. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 17, contains twelve chapters. The first chapter deals with
Chapter 46, Salya Parva) . the origin of the Smrti and the origin of the world.
MANOJAVA IV. A sacred place situated in Vyasavana No other Smrti begins like this and so it is believed
in Kuruksetra. If one bathes in a pond there one will that this chapter must have been added to it later.
have to one's credit the benefit of making a thousand The contents of each of the other eleven chapters are
Godanas. (Sloka 93, Chapter 88, Vana Parva). given below :
MANONUGA. A place near the mountain Vamana in Second chapter. It deals with the sense organs and
the island of Kraunca. (Sloka 11, Chapter 12, Bhlsma stresses the importance of
conquering and controlling
Parva). them. It describes the qualities of a brahmin.
MANORAMA Wife of Dhruvasandhi King of
I. Third chapter. It contains the duties of a householder
Kosala. (See under Dhruvasandhi for details). after his course of study of the Vedas.
Eight different
MANORAMA II. A celestial woman. She was the kinds of marriages are described in it. It also deals with
daughter of Kasyapa Prajapati, born of his wife methods of giving protection to women and children.
Pradha. (Sloka 50, Chapter 65, Adi Parva). She Fourth chapter. Duties of a brahmana, study of the
participated in the Janmotsava of Arjuna. (Sloka 62, Vedas and responsibilities of a Snataka are all des-
Chapter 122, Adi Parva). cribed in this chapter.
MANORAMA III. Once by his spiritual powers the Fifth chapter. This deals with pure and impure foods,
sage Uddalaka brought the river SarasvatI to his place impurity and methods of purification, women and
of yajna and that diversion was then known as Mano- their responsibilities.
rama. (Sloka 25, Chapter 38, Salya Parva) . Sixth Chapter. This contains the duties of those who
MANORATHA. A calf once created by Sri Krsna by have entered the aSrarna of Vanaprastha and also of
his spiritual powers. (See under Surabhi) . ascetics.
MANOVATI. The city of Brahma. This city is situated Seventh chapter. It deals with the duties of Kings and
in the centre of the nine cities on the top of the ministers.
mountain Mahameru. Around it are the cities of the Eighth chapter. It deals with law and
justice. It con-
Astadikpalakas. (8th Skandha, Devi Bhagavata) . tains laws for the proper conduct of
justice and includes
MANTHARA I. A maid of Kaikeyi the wife of ways and means of settling disputes and handling cases
Da^aratha. This hunchbacked woman was born of the of debts, sale without right, partnership, duels, theft,
species of a Gandharvl named Dundubhi. (Sloka 10, prostitution, boundary disputes and all such matters
Chapter 276, Vana Parva) When everything was
. as are to be decided by a court of law.
made ready to crown Sri Rama as the heir-apparent Ninth chapter. It deals with the duties of a husband and
of Ayodhya, it was Manthara who persuaded Kaikeyi wife. It also contains matters relating to property
to go to Dasaratha and ask him to send Sri Rama and the duties of a King with regard
rights, partition
to the forests. Had not the cruel tongue of Manthara to these.
played like that, the history of the solar dynasty itself Tenth chapter. It deals with the duties of the different
would have been different. (See under Kaikeyi). castes, mixed castes and the duties of one in times of
MANTHARA II. Daughter of Virocana. (Sarga 25, danger.
Balakanda, Valmiki Ramayana). Indra killed this Eleventh chapter. It deals
first with penance, observation
Manthara. of Vratas, Yagas, Yajnas and fee to the priests. It
MANTHINI. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka 28, then deals with punishments of crimes, expiation for
Chapter 46, Salya Parva). murder, prostitution etc.
MANTRA. See under Veda. Twelfth chapter. It deals with the
theory of births and
MANTRAPALA. One of the eight ministers of the describes how your deeds in the present life are direc-
great King Dasaratha. The other seven were Jayanta, : tive of the nature of life of your next birth. What
Dhrsti, Vijaya, Asiddhartha, Arthasadhaka, Asoka and deeds would fetch you what life is also
explained. It
Sumantra. (Sarga 7, Bala Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) contains instructions on Atmajnana and the
MANU See under Manvantara.
.
way to
I. obtain moksa (absolute bliss) .
There is basis to believe that the Greeks and the people human beings is one "ahoratra" (one day and night
of Bharata accepted with slight modifications the making up one full day) for the pitrs. Twelve Candra
theory of evolution. The Dasavataras of Visnu almost
masas make one year for human beings. One year for
represents the progressive changes in the form of a
human beings is one ahoratra for the gods. Three
living thing from a fish into man. The theory of hundred ahoratras of gods make one "Deva Vatsara"
Darwin that life was first formed in water was current or "Divya vatsara". 4,800 divyavatsaras make one Krta-
among the sages of ancient Bharata, even from very yuga. 3,600 divyavatsaras make one Tretayuga, 2,400
early times. divyavatsaras make one Dvaparayuga. 1,200 divya-
vatsaras make one Kaliyuga. 12.000 divyavatsaras
Apa eva sasarjadau
comprising a set of Krta, Treta. Dvapara and Kaliyugas
Ta.su vlryamapasrjat //
make one Caturyuga. A Manu's period is completed
(He created water first and cast virility therein)
at the end of 71 Caturyugas. With that, the first
.
at another time it perishes. Brahma, the creator of 360 days for gods One Deva vatsara.
the universe has birth and death. The period between 1 caturyuga (36 lakhs years
12,000 Deva vatsaras
the birth and death of a Brahma is known as a "Maha- for human beings) .
kalpa". The flood that comes at the death of a Brahma 71 caturyugas 1 Manvantaram (One
is called "Mahapralaya". One day of Brahma is called Manu's life-span) .
There are seventy one Caturyugas in each Manvantara. 120 Brahma Varsas One Brahma's life-span.
The four yugas namely Krtayuga, Tretayuga, Dvapara- This life-span of one Brahma is therefore 30 crores 9
yuga and Kaliyuga make np one Caturyuga. At the end lakhs 17 thousands 376 hundreds of years of human
of seventyone such Caturyugas, that is, at the end of beings.
every two hundred and eightyfour (71 X 4) yugas, a It is said a Manu's period of reign is 4,32,000
that
Manu completes his life-span. Along with that, the .,
Manusyarvarsas. (Bhagavata, 3rd Skandha) .
Devas who were born at the time of the birth of that 3) The caturyuga scheme.
A caturyuga consists of the
Manu, also come to the end of their lives. Fourteen such four yugas, namely Krta, Treta, Dvapara and Kali
the Vedas perish
Manvantaras make one day of Brahma. It is at the end yugas. At the end of each Caturyuga,
of that day that the original universe perishes. Brahma's Then the "Saptarsis" (seven sages) come down from
life-span is 120 years. At the end of that period, that heaven to the earth and restore them again. Manu
Brahma perishes. That is to say, at the end of every who is the propounder of Dharma sastra, is also born
MANVANTARA(M) 483 MANVANTARA(M)
in every Krtayuga. The Devas of each Manvantaram (iii) Born from Viraf anda. (M.B. Adi Parva Chapter
feed upon the share of Havis (offerings at sacrifices) of 1, Verse 32).
the yaga till the end of that Manvantara. During the (iv) Sage Cyavana married this Manu's daughter.
whole period of the Manvantara, the earth is protected (M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 66, Verse 46).
and preserved by the sons of Manu and their descen- (v) This Manu taught Soma, the art of Caksusl. (M.B.
dants. Thus Manu, the Saptarsis, Devas, Indra and the Adi Parva, Chapter 169, Verse 43).
Kings who are the sons of Manu are the authorities of (vi) Since this Manu had
blessed the clouds of the
the Manvantara. After 14 Manvantaras a Kalpa of Magadha country they sent periodical rains to that
about 1,000 yugas, comes to an end. After that there is region. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 21, Verse 10).
a night extending over the same period in duration. At (vii) Manu came to the world, riding in the chariot of
that time Mahavisnu sleeps on his bed Ananta in the the gods to see Arjuna's fight. (M.B. Virata Parva,
ocean of deluge. After that, he wakes up again and Chapter 56, Verse 10).
performs creation. Manus, Kings, Indra, Devas and (viii) This Manu had a wife named SarasvatI (Sata-
Saptarsis are the Sattvika aspects of Mahavisnu, who rupa). (M.B. Udyoga Parva, Chapter 117, Verse 14).
performs the work of protecting the world. In Krta (ix) This Manu lives in Bindusaras. (Bhisma Parva,
yuga, Mahavisnu assumes the form of Kapila and others Chapter 7, Verse 46 ) .
In Dvapara yuga, he assumes the form of Vyasa and (xi) Manu held discussions with Siddhas. (Santi Parva,
after dividing the Veda into 4 sections, classifies each Chapter 36) .
of the sections into the various branches. At the end (xii) He was the King of men. (Sand Parva, Chapter
of Kaliyuga, Mahavisnu assumes the form of Kalki and 67, Verse 21).
restores the vicious to the path of righteousness. This is (xiii) This Manu is called "Prajapati Manu". Once
the "Caturyuga scheme" of Mahavisnu. (Visnu Purana. he had a talk with Brhaspati on the subject of Dharma.
Part III, Chapter 2). (Santi Parva, Chapter 201) .
4) The fourteen Manus. The names of the fourteen (xiv) Upamanyu saw Svayambhuva Manu sitting by
Manus of one Kalpa are given below : the side of Siva. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 14,
(I) Svayambhuva ( 2 ) Svarocisa (3) Uttama (Auttami) Verse 280).
(4) Tamasa (5) Raivata (6) Caksusa (7) Vaivas- (xv) He talked with the sage Suparna about the great-
vata (8) Savarni Daksasavarni (10) Brahmasavarni
(9) ness of flowers, fumes, lights, offerings and gifts. (Adi-
(II) Dharmasavarni (12) Rudrasavarni (13) Raucya- Parva, Chapter 65, Verse 45) .
famous work "Manusmrti". Kalidasa says that the (ii) In Harivamsa, Chapter 7 we read that the
Kings of the Raghu dynasty lived in strict obedience Saptarsis of this Manvantaram were Aurva, Stambha,
to the laws laid down by this Manu. (Devi Bhagavata, Kasyapa, Prana, Brhaspati, Datta and Nis"cyavana.
Dasama Skandha) .
(iii) Brahma taught this Manu, Satvatadharma.
(b) Other details. Svarocisa taught this dharma to his son Sahkhavadana.
(i) The
Saptarsis of first Manvantara were Marici, (Santi Parva, Chapter 348, Verse 36).
Angiras, Atri, Pulaha, Kratu, Pulastya and Vasistha. (3) Auttami (Uttama).
Devas are known as Yamas. The first Manu had ten (a) General. Uttama was also the son of Priyavrata.
sons namelv Agnidhra, Agnibahu, Medha, Medha- He went to Ganga tirtha and offered worship to Devi
Vasu, Jyotisman, Dyutiman, Havya, Savana and
tithi, for three years with Vagbija mantra. At the end of it,
Putra and they ruled over the country. (Harivarhsa, Devi was pleased and blessed him with worthy sons and
Chapter 7) . a kingdom without the threat of enemies. After a happy
(ii) Emperor Prthu turned Svayambhuva Manu into reign of many years, at the close of the Manvantara, he
a calf and obtained medicine from Bhumi by milking her reached the highest place in Heaven. (Devi Bhagavata,
as a cow. (Bhagavata, 4th Skandha). 10th Skandha).
MANVANTARA(M) 484 MANVANTARA(M)
(b) Other details. Susanti was the name of the Devendra BrhatI, the wife of Ripu. Caksusa begot Manu by
of this Manvantara. There were five groups of Devas, PuskarinI, daughter of Virana Prajapati. This was the
namely Sudhamans, Satyas, Japas, Pratardanas and sixth Manu. By his wife Nadvala, the daughter of
Sivas, each group consisting of twelve Devas. The seven Vairaja Prajapati, he had 10 sons, namely, Kuru,
sons of the sage Vasisjha were the saptarsis of this Puru, Satadyumna, Tapasvl, Satyavan, Suci, Agni-
Manvantara. These seven sons of Vasis^ha by his wife stoma, Atiratra, Sudyumna and Abhimanyu. Agneyi,
Urjja were Raias, Gotra, Urdhvabahu, Savana, Anagha, wife of Kuru, gave birth to six sons who were Anga,
Sutapas and Sukra. Aja, Paraiudlpta and others were Sumanas, Khyati, Kratu, Arigiras and Sibi. Sunltha,
the sons of the Manu Uttama. (Visnu Purana, Part I. wife of Aiiiga, gave birth to Vena. Prthu was the son of
Chapter 1). Vena. He is also known as "Vainya".
(4) Tdmasa. (ii) The Indraof that period was Manojava. There
(a) The fourth Manu Tamasa was the son of
General. were five groups of Devas Akhyas, Prasutas, Bhavyas,
Priyavrata. That King performed penance to Devi on Prthukas and Lekhas, each group consisting of eight
the northern bank of the river Narmada with Kamaraja Devas. The Saptarsis of this Manvantara were
mantra. As a result of Devi's blessing, he obtained a Sumedhas, Virajas, Havisman, Uttama, Madhu,
prosperous Kingdom and worthy sons. After a long Atinaman and Sahisnu. Satadyumna and other mighty
reign he attained heaven. (Devi Bhagavata, 10th Kings were the sons of Caksusa Manu. (Visnu Purana,
Skandha) . Part I, Chapter 3) .
(b) Other details. At the time of this Manu, there were (iii) The sons of this Manu became famous under the
four groups of Devas, namely Suparas, Haris, Satyas, name "Varisthas" (M.B. AnuSasana Parva, Chapter
and Sudhls. Each of these groups contained 27 18, Verse 20).
Devas. Sibi who had performed a hundred yagas was (
7) Vaivasvata.
the Indra. The Saptarsis of this Manvantara were (a) General. born from Surya. It is this Manu
He was
Jyotirman, Prthu, Kavya, Caitra, Agnivanaka, and who world today. All living beings that we
rules the
Plvara and Kara. Khyati, Keturupa, Janujangha and see today were born from him. Vaivasvata Manu is
others were the sons of Tamasa Manu. (Visnu Purana, Satyavrata Manu who escaped from the last deluge.
Part I, Chapter 1). To save him Visnu took up the incarnation of Matsya
(5) Raivata. (fish) Vaivasvata Manu was also the first of the Kings
.
power and profound scholarship. Pulaha sent him to Ten sons were born to this Manu who
were Vena,
(iv)
Devi. The Rajarsi taught him the worship of Devi. Dhrsnu, Narisyanta, Nabhaga, Iksvaku, Karusa,
After acquiring the mantra Caksusa went to the Saryati, lla, Prsadhra, and Nabhagarista. (M.B. Adi
banks of the river Viraja and offered worship to Devi.
Parva, Chapter 75, Verse 15).
At the end of twelve years, Devi appeared before
him and blessed him with "Manuhood", mastery of the (v) Mahavisnu incarnated as Matsya for the sake of
Vaivasvata Manu. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 187).
Manu kingdom and brilliant sons After many years
he distributed his kingdoms among his sons and at last (vi) He received Yogavidya from Surya and Iksvaku
attained "Devipada". (Devi Bhagavata, Dasama
received it later from him. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
Skandha). Chapter 122, Verse 38).
(b) Other details. (vii) At the beginning of Tretayuga, Surya taught
(i) Thefollowing account is given in Visnu Purana,
"Satvata Dharma" to Manu and Manu taught
Part I, Chapter 13, about the birth of Caksusa Manu. it to Iksvaku for the protection of all creatures. (M.B.
Dhruva and his wife Sambhu had two sons, namely Santi Parva, Chapter 348, Verse 51) .
Sisti and Bhavya. Succhaya, the wife of Sisti gave (viii) The
Gautama taught Sivasahasranama to
sage
birth to five sons, Ripu, Ripunjaya, Vipra. Vrkala and Vaivasvata Manu. (M.B. AnusTisana Parva, Chapter
Vrkatejas, who were all sinless. Caksusa was born to 17, Verse 177).
MANVANTARA(M) 485 MANVANTARA( M)
(8) Sdvarni. aujasand Bhutisena who will become Kings. (Visnu
(a) General. Even in his birth he was a
previous Purana, Part III, Chapter 2) .
devotee of Devi. In his former birth (during the (11). Dharma Sdvarni.
period of Svarocisa Manvantara) Savarni was born as General. In Manvantara there will be three
this
a King of Caitravamsa under the name Suratha. The groups of Devas namely, Vihaiigamas, Kamagas and
origin of the dynasty known as Caitravarhs'a was as
N irvanaratis, each of the groups consisting of 30 Devas.
follows :
Atri, son of Brahma had a son named Vrsa, Agnitejas, Vapusman, Ghrni, Aruni, Havisman,
Nisakara. This Nisakara became an emperor by and Anagha will be the Saptarsis. The sons of Dharma
performing Rajasuya. Emperor Nisakara had a son Savarni viz., Sarvatraga, Sudharma, Devanika and
Budha and Budha had a son named Caitra, both of others will be the kings of that time.
whom were greatly renowned. It was Caitra 's family ( 12) Rudra Sdvarni.
.
which later on became the reputed Caitra dynasty. General. This Manu is the son of Rudra. The Indra of
The son of that Caitra was Viratha. Suratha was this Manvantara will be Rtudhaman. There will be
the son of Viratha. This was the previous birth of five groups of Devas namely, Haritas, Rohitas, Suma-
Savarni Manu. Suratha was a great hero and poet. nases, Sukarmans and Suparas. Each group will con-
Once another King besieged his city and defeated him. tain 10 Devas. Saptarsis are Tapasvl, Sutapas, Tapo-
Suratha left his kingdom and went alone on horseback murti, Taporati, Tapodhrti, Tapodyuti and Tapodhana.
and took shelter in a dense forest. While wandering The sons of this Manu, Devavan, Upadeva and Deva-
in the forest like a mad man with a broken heart, he Srestha will be mighty kings. (Visnu Purana, Part III,
happened to reach the asrama of the sage Sumedhas. Chapter2).
The sage advised him to worship Devi in order to (13). Raucyadeva Sdvarni. (Ruci) .
retrieve his lost kingdom and prosperity. Accordingly General.There will be three groups of Devas during this
the King worshipped Devi who was pleased and period called Sutramans, Sukarmans and Sudharmans.
restored to him his kingdom and prosperity. Besides, Each of these groups will contain 33 Devas. The mighty
she blessed him that in his next birth he would become Divaspati will be their Indra. Nirmoha, TattvadarsI,
Savarni, the King of the Solar dynasty and would be Nisprakampya, Nirutsuka, Dhrtiman, Avyaya and
revered as the eighth Manu. Thus the eighth Manu Sutapas are the Saptarsis of that period. Citrasena,
Savarni will be the second birth of Suratha. (Devi Vicitra and other sons of this Manu will be kings.
Bhagavata, 10th Skandha). (Visnu Purana, Part III, Chapter 2).
(b) Other details. Savarni is also the son of Surya. ( 14) Indra Sdvarni (Bhaumi).
.
How he came to be called Savarni is explained below :-- General. The Indra of this Manvantara will be Suci.
Surya had three children Manu, Yama and YamI by Under his control there will be five groups of Devas.
Sarhjna, the daughter of Visvakarma. This Manu was They are Caksusas, Pavitras, Kanisjhas, Bhrajakas and
Vaivasvata Manu, the seventh Manu. Unable to bear Vacavrddhas. The Saptarsis of this period are Agni-
the intense heat of Surya, Sarhjna once sent her maid bahu, Suci, Sukra, Magadha, Agnidhra, Yukta and
Chaya to Surya in her own disguise and went to the forest Jita. At that time the sons of the Manu who would rule
for tapas. Surya had three children by Chaya, Sanai- the earth will be Ura, Gambhlrabuddhi and others.
scara, another Manu and Tapatl. This Manu is known as (Visnu Purana, Part III, Chapter 2).
Savarni who will become the eighth Manu. In his time 5). Some more details. Fourteen Manus have been
there will be three groups of Devas Sutapas, Amita- mentioned above. Of them, the seventh Manu, Vaivas-
bhas and Mukhyas. Each of these groups will consist of vata Manu is the Head of the present Manvantrara.
twelve persons. The Saptarsis of the eighth Manvantara Some general facts about the Manus are given below: -
are Diptiman, Galava, Rama, Krpa, Asvatthama son 1) The six Manus after the eighth one namely,
of Drona, Vyasa son of Parasara and Rsyasrnga. Daksasavarni, Merusavarni, Suryasavarni, Candra-
Mahabali, son of Virocana will be the Indra. Virajas, savarni, Rudrasavarni and Visnusavarni are
Urvarlyan, Nirmoka and others are the Kings who are respectively the re-births of Karusa, Prsadhra, Nabh-
the sons of Savarni Manu. (Visnu Purana, Part III, aga, Dista, Saryati and Trisanku who were the
Chapter 2). sons of Vaivasvsata Manu. There is a story about their
(9). Dakfa Sdvarni. taking re-births. All the six persons mentioned above
General. At the time of this Manu there are three were once offering worship to the idol of Devi on the
groups of Devas namely, Paras, Marlcigarbhas and banks of the river Kalindl. After twelve years, Devi
Sudharmans. Each of the groups contains 12 Devas. appeared, under the name of Bhramarambika and blessed
The Indra who is the king of those Devas, is the mighty them that in their next births they would become
Adbhuta. The Saptarsis of this Manvantara are: Savana, rulers of Manvantaras. (Devi Bhagavata, 10th
Skandha).
Dyutiman, Bhavya, Vasu, Medhatithi, Jyotisman and 2) It is said that the four Manus, Svarocisa, Uttama,
Satya. Dhrtaketu. Dlptiketu, Pancahasta, Niramaya, Tamasa and Raivata belonged to Priyavrata's family.
Prthusravas are the sons of Daksasavarni Manu. (Visnu It was because Priyavrata who was a
Rajarsi offered
Purana, Part III, Chapter 2) . tapas to Visnu that four Manus were born in his family.
(10). Brahma Sdvarni. (Visnu Purana. Part III, Chapter 1).
General. In this Manvantara, the Devas are Sudha- 3) It is the power of Visnu that dominates all the
mans and Visuddhas. Each of these groups will contain Manvantaras as the basic divinity. In the first Svayam-
100 Devas. Their Indra will be the heroic Santi. The bhuva Manvantara it was a part of that power of Visnu
Saptarsis will be Havisman, Sukrta, Satya, Tapomurti, itself that originated as Yajnapurusa in Abhuti. After
Nabhaga, Apratimaujas and Satyaketu. Brahma Savarni that when Svarocisa Manvantara came it was
again that
will have ten sons, three of whom are, Suksetra, Uttam- divinity that took its origin inTusita as Ajita among the
MANYAVATI 486 MARlCA I
Tusitas. In Uttama Manvantara that divinity Tusita him name "Mrtyu". He gave her permission to destroy
self was born again under the name of Satya as the son of human beings.
Satya in the group of Devas called Satyas. When Tamas-i When she heard that she was to kill living beings, she shed
Manvantara began, that divinity was born again as the tears and Brahma gathered those tears. She went to
son of Harya as a Hari in the group of Devas called Dhenukasrama and other places and performed tapas. At
Haris^ It was that divinity Hari himself who was born last Brahma called her back and assured her that it was
in Sambhiiti under the name of Manasa among the not against Dharma to kill living beings. He changed
Devas called Raivatas in Raivata Manvantara. In Caksusa the tears he had gathered from her face into the various
Manvantara that Visnu Bhagavan took birth in Vikunjhl diseases and returned them to her. He gave those dis-
as one of the Vaikunthas. In the present Vaivasvata eases and the god Yama as her companions. Thus the
Manvantara, Visnu has incarnated in Aditi as Vamana, goddess Mrtyu started her dance of destruction. (See
the son of Kayapa. That great Vamana conquered also under the word PUNARJANMA).
all the three worlds and presented them to Devendra. MARDAMAHARSI. One of the sons of Visvamitra who
(Visnu Purana, Part III, Chapter 2) . was a Brahmavadi. (Sloka 57, Chapter 4, Anusasana
Besides the fourteen Manus mentioned above, certain Parva) .
other Manus are also referred to in the Puranas. Some MARGAlifAPRIYA. A daughter born to Kasyapa Praja-
details about them are given below: pati of his wife Pradha. (Sloka 45, Chapter 65, Adi
(1) It is seen from Valmiki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Parva) .
14th Sarga, verse 11, that Kasyapa had a wife named MARGASIRSAMASA. The month of Dhanu (Decem-
Manu. ber). The month has got great Puranic importance.
(2) There is a reference to a Rajarsi (Saintly king) If one lives taking food only once during the whole of
named Manu in Rgveda, first Manclala, 16th Anuvaka, this month one will be free from all sins and diseases.
112th Sukta. (Sloka 17, Chapter 106, Anus asana Parva). If on the
( 3)
A son named Manu was born to the Agni Tapa or Dvada^I day in this month one fasts the whole day
Pancajanya. This Manu has another name Bhanu. He and night and worships Kesava one will get the
had three wives named Supraja, Brhadbhasa and Nisa. benefit of conducting an Aivamedha yajna.
(Sloka 3,
Six sons were born to him by the first two wives. By Chapter 109, AnuSasana Parva).
his third wife he had one daughter and seven sons. MARlCA. A Danava. There is a reference to him in
(M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 221, Verse 4). Uttara Ramayana.
(4) In Mahabharata, Sand Parva, Chapter 57, verse 43, MARlCA I. The uncle of Ravana.
we find a reference to another Manu named Pracetas. 1). Birth. On the banks of the river Sarayu, there were
MANYAVATI. Wife of Aviksit, son of Karandhama. two states lying adjacent called Malada and Karusa.
Manyavati daughter of Bhimarfija was carried away by The great sages conducted Jaladhara (showering of
force by Aviksit from the marriage hall on the marriage water) on the head of Indra to absolve him of his sin
day. (Markandeya Purana).. of killing Vrtrasura at this place. At that time Mala (ex-
MANYU I. A Vedic god. The origin of this god is des- creta) and Karusa (spittings) of Indra fell at those places
cribed in Brahma Purana as follows :
and so they got the name of Malada and Karusa. At
Once a terrible war broke out between Devas and that place was born after a few years a demoness named
Asuras. The Devas who were defeated, went to the Tataka who had the strength of a thousand elephants.
GautamI river valley and performed penance to Siva A demon called Sunda married Tataka and she got
two sons named Marica and Subahu. (Sarga 24, Bala
praying for victory. Siva produced Manyu from his
third eye and presented him to the Devas. In the Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana and Bala Kanda, Kamba
battle which followed they defeated the Asuras with the Ramayana ) .
help of Manyu. 2) Marica in his previous birth. Marica was the servant
of the gate-keepers of Vaikuntha. One day Mahavisnu
MANYU II. A king of the Puru dynasty. Bhagavata, 9lh
was displeased by a conduct of his and he cursed him
Skandha states that Manyu, the son of Bharadvaja, had to be born as a demon on earth. But he added that
five sons including Brhatksaya.
Marlcawould get salvation from the curse when he was
MANYUMAN. Second son of the Agni Bhanu. (M.B. killed by Sri Rama in which capacity Visnu would in-
Vana Parva, Chapter 221, Verse 11). carnate soon. He would then return to Vaikuntha to
MARAlifA (M) (DEATH). Death is a goddess whose his original place. That was how Marica was born as
name is Mrtyu. The Puranas state that there was no the uncle of Ravana.
death in the world before the birth of this goddess. In Asrama Marica and Subahu were two insepara-
3) life.
Mahabharata, Drona Parva, Chapter 53 there is the ble brothers. They learnedall tactics of war and their
following story about the circumstances in which
hobby was torment the innocent sages of the forests
to
Brahma created Mrtyu. (Sarga Balakanda, Valmiki Ramayana). When
19,
Living beings multiplied endlessly on earth. As they the exploits of Marica became unbearable, Visvamitra
had no death, the goddess Earth found their weight too brought Rama and Laksmana from Ayodhya for help.
much for her to bear. She went weeping to Brahma and The instant Marica heard the fierce twang of Rama's
prayed for his help. At that time, Rudra and Narada bow he fled to the other shore of the sea. From that
were present in Brahma's assembly. Brahma said that day onwards Marica grew matted hair and wore
he did not like destroying living beings. Because of barks of trees and spent his life in an asrama. (Sargas
the pressure of Rudra and Narada, Brahma created out 35 and 36, Aranyakanda, Valmiki Ramayana) .
of Visvaprakasa (Cosmic Light) a woman. She 4) Death. When Rama and Laksmana were living in
was born from the south and Brahma gave her the the Dandakaranya with Sita they were annoyed by a
MARICA II 487 MAR 1C I I
demoness named Surpanakha. In the fight that ensued and Purniman by Kala. This KaSyapa was the original
very many demons were killed. Surpanakha complained ancestor of all living beings. But Purniman's family did
to Ravana who decided to kill Rama and carry away not become well-known. Purniman had two sons, Virajas
Sita. For this he sought the help of his uncle Marica. and Visvaga and a daughter Devakulya. Devakulya
Flying in his golden Vimana and crossing mountains and washed the feet of Mahavisnu and merged with Akasa
oceans he approached Marica and told him of his plan. Ganga.
Marica who was aware of the force of Ramabana dis- Urna was another wife of Marlci. Six sons were born
suaded Ravana from such a venture. But Ravana to Urna. Under a curse of Brahma they were born first
persisted in his plan and gave Marica the following as the sons of Hiranyakasipu and in their next birth
instructions "Become a golden deer with beautiful
: as the sons of Vasudeva and Devaki. It was these six
white spots all over the body and roam about near the children who were born as Sri Krsna's elder brothers
a;'rama of Rama for his wife Sita to see. I am sure Sita whom Kamsa killed immediately after their birth.
will request her husband Rama to catch hold of you. (See under Krsna).
Rama and Laksmaria will follow you and Sita will be Marlci had another wife named Sambhuti. She gave
left alone. I will then carry away Sita as Rahu takes birth to Paurnamasa. In Visnu Purana, Part I, Chapter
Candrika (moonlight) and live happily with her. I will 10, we see that Paurnamasa who was a Mahatma had
be contented if I can then tease Rama who will be two sons Virajas and Parvata. Dharmavrata was yet
lamenting over his separation from his wife". Thinking another wife of Marlci. She was a daughter born to
that it would be better to die at the hands of Rama Dharmavati by Dharmadeva.
than at the hands of Ravana, Marica agreed to do as 3) Dharmavrata cursed. Marlci lived happily for long
hisnephew desired. with his wife Dharmavrata. Once he returned from
Ravana and Marica came near the asrama of Rama in the forest, carrying darbha grass, flowers etc.
Ravana's Marica on alighting from it
aerial chariot. He was tired after a long walk. After taking food, he
took the form of a beautiful fawn and entered the pre- wanted his wife to massage his legs. While she was
cincts of the asrama. The false fawn was capable of massaging him Marlci fell asleep. Just then Brahma
attracting the attention of anybody. It is described happened to come there. Dharmavrata was in a fix.
thus 'It appeared as a wonder to those
: who saw it. She had to attend to her husband and at the same time
It was golden in colour with blue horns with white receive Brahma with due respect. She could not leave
lines on it. The ears were like leaves of blue lotus and her husband's guru (Sire). It was her duty to honour
the face was of the colour of red lotus. The lips were like him properly.
sapphire and the body beautifully shaped with sides At last she got up and welcomed Brahma, offering
like yellow flowers. The waist was thin and him the customary honours. Meanwhile Marlci woke
well-shaped
and a rain-bow-coloured tail adorned its back. The up and not finding his wife near him cursed her to be
whole body was silver-spotted and the deer was a feast turned into a stone. Dharmavrata who was distressed
for the eyes of anybody." at the curse pleaded innocence and explained to him
The deer went and grazed in places where it could be that she had been honouring his guru. She warned him
seen by Sita. It would run away from the as"rama and that he would incur the curse of Siva.
graze hidden from Sita but would come back again to Under Marlci's curse Dharmavrata was separated from
the vision of Sita. It would mix with the deer of the him. She performed penance in the midst of fires. Maha-
asrama for some time and run away from them to dis- visnu appeared before her and asked her what boon
tant places. Like a butterfly it flitted about always she wanted. She prayed that her curse might be lifted.
trying to attract the attention of Sita. Other deer appro- Visnu replied "It was Marlci who cursed you. That
:
ached it but on getting its scent flew away from it. The curse cannot be withdrawn. You will be turned into a
false deer suppressing the demon-instinct in him to kill sacred stone. Your name "Dharmavrata" will be
and eat the animals which came near it played well the changed into "Devavrata". In future, that stone will
role of a fawn. become famous under the name "Devavrata" or "Deva-
Sita was enamoured of the deer and expressed to Rama gila".Brahma, Visnu, MahesVara and goddesses like
her desire to get it. Rama followed it and finding it Laksmi will dwell in that stone."
keeping a distance always got suspicious and shot it After saying this, Mahavisnu disappeared. Once
down with an arrow. The deer cried "Ha Laksmana" Dharmadeva held this Devasila above the demon Gaya
and fell down dead. The cry was intended to mislead and the place became famous under the name of "Gaya
Laksmaria and draw him also away from Sita. tlrtha". (See under Gayatlrtha) .
Verse 52).
MARlCI I. A Maharsi (sage) born from Brahma's
(ii) Marlci was a member of
Indra's assembly. (M.B.
mind.
The Sabha Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 1 7) .
1
)
Birth and Genealogy. great sages born from
six
Brahma's mind were :
Marlci, Ahgiras, Atri, Pulastya, (iii) Marlci attended the celebrationconnected with
Pulaha and Kratu, according Subrahmanya's birth. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter 45,
to Mahabharata, Adi
Parva. Verse 10).'
2) Domestic life. Marlci had several wives and children. (iv) After the Bharata Yuddha, Marlci visited Bhisma
He married Kala, the daughter of Kardama Prajapaii who was lying on "Sara Sayya" (bed of arrows) (M.B,
.
by his wife Devahuti. Marlci had two sons Kasyapa Santi Parva, Chapter 47, Verse 10).
MARlCI II 488 MARKANDEYA
(v) Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 334, Verse 35, coming down killed Yama to save the child. From that
mentions that Marici is a Prajapati. day onwards Siva got the names Mrtyunjaya and Kala-
(
vi ) Marici is one of the group of sages known as Citra- kala. After that at the request of the devas Siva gave
Sikhandins. (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 335, Verse 29). life to Yama again and made Markandeya to be of six-
(vii) Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 340, Verse teen years for ever.
44, describes Marici as one of the Astaprakrtis. 3) Penance of Markandeya. The Puranas state that after
(viii) Marici once visited Dhruva who was performing getting the blessing from Siva, Markandeya lived for ten
penance and gave him advice. (Visnu Purana, Part I, crores of years. While he was in deep meditation six
Chapter 11). Manvantaras passed away. When Markandeya conti-
MARlCI II. A celestial woman. In Mahabharata, Adi nued his meditation to the seventh Manvantara Indra
Parva, Chapter 122, Verse 62 we find that she attended got frightened and he made an attempt to abort the
a dance at the celebrations at the time of Arjuna's penance of Markandeya. Indra sent his troops of
birth. Gandharvas, nymphs, Manmatha and Vasanta to the
MARlCI III. An author of Dharmas"astra. His state- asrama of Markandeya. The asrama of Markandeya
ments are quoted in Apararkii, Smrticandrika, Mita- was at a place which was on the northern side of the
ksara and other works. Himalayas and was famous by the presence there of
MARISA I. A nymph created as a maiden of the Flora the river Puspabhadra and the rock Citra. The agents
(See under Kandu). of Indra came there and tried to entice him with many
MARISA II. A river of Puranic fame. (Sloka 36, temptations. Beautiful celestial maidens danced around
Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) . the asrama. Flowers fell from their hair when their
MARISA. A
place of habitation of ancient Bharata. waists shook by the weight of their heavy breasts. En-
(Sloka 69, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva). chanting girls played with balls here and there. As they
MARjARA.Son of Jambavan. It is said in Brahmapurana played the bracelets on their waists fell down and the
that the marjaras (cals) have their origin from this thin garments that hid their bodies flew up showing an
son of Jambavan. alluring nakedness. Kama (God of Love) sent his arrows
MARKA. See under the word Sandamarka. at that time against the sage. But Markandeya sat un-
MARKANDEYA. The son of Mrkandu. He was a great concerned as rigid as a rock and Indra accepted defeat.
devotee of Siva. When Indra and his troops returned disappointed Mahfi-
1) Genealogy. Bhrgu, son of Brahma, begot of his wife vknu with many sages went to Markandeya. He awoke
Khyati a daughter named Laksmi and two sons named from his meditation and worshipped Visnu.
Dhata and Vidhata. 4) Vision ofPralaya. On one evening at dusk Markan-
Dhata and Vidhata married Ayati and Niyati daughters deya was sitting at Puspabhadratlra when from some-
of Mahameru. Dhata begot of his wife Ayati a son where a wind began to blow. The wind increased in
named Prana and Niyati bore Vidhata a son named strength and the sky became covered with clouds.
The
Mrkandu, Markandeya was the son of Mrkandu and place resounded with peals of thunder and soon it began
Vedasiras was the son of Markandeya. to rain. Rains became heavy. Rivers became flooded and
2) Birth. Mrkandu did not have sons for a long time and water-level in the oceans rose. Everything around was
sohe performed penance for several years to please Siva submerged in water and Markandeya alone stood there
to get a son. Siva appeared before him in person and with his matted hair swinging in the wind. It was im-
asked him thus "Do you desire to have a virtuous, wise and possible to know the directions and Markandeya
started
pious son who would live up to sixteen years or a dull- walking. He fell into whirlpools but was the next instant
witted evil-natured son who would live long ?" Mrkandu thrown up on to the top of surging waves. Then he saw
chose the first type and soon a son was born. He was on the top of a high wave a banyan tree. On a branch
named Markandeya. Even from boyhood Markandeya on the north-east of the tree he saw an infant lying, de-
knew all the Vedas and gastras. His pleasing manners vouring the darkness by its effulgence. He was attracted
got the approval of his teachers and the boy was liked by to the infant by its vital force and went inside the infant
one and all. But the parents were sad and whenever they as inhaled. Inside the belly of the kid Markandeya
it
looked at their son a gloom spread over their face. The had a vision of the entire universe. He saw the sky, the
secret of the short span of his life was hidden from him. horizon, the stars, the oceans, the mountains expanses of
The sixteenth year was fast approaching and one day land, Suras, Asuras, forests and all that the universe
unable to control their grief they wept before him. Mar- contained in its proper set-up. He saw passing before
kandeya asked them the reason why they wept. Mrkandu his eyes the elements, the Yugas and the Manvantaras.
with tears running down his cheeks told him the story. After some time he was thrown out by an exhalation of
From that day onwards Markandeya started performing the infant. He stood on the waters. The old banyan
penance wearing barks of trees for his dress and growing tree was still there. An infant was still lying on a leaf on
matted hair. The boy was soon engrossed in severe aus- that tree. Markandeya then knew it was Mahavisnu.
terities. He rushed to embrace the child; but the child disappear-
The day of his death came and the boy sat before the ed before he reached it. Markandeya praised Maha-
idol of Siva in deep meditation. The servants of the god visnu.
of Death could not approach Markandeya for the radia- 5) Parvati and ParameSvara come to Markandeya. When
tion from him was too hot for them. So Yama, the god Mahavisnu disappeared from his vision he was
he felt
of Death, himself came to fetch him. Then Markandeya sitting at Puspabhadratlra and he again went into
crying loudly for help embraced the idol before him. meditation. At that time Parvati and Paramesvara came
Yama threw his rope in a loop and it went and circled that way and appeared before Markandeya. The sage
round the idol also. Angry Siva rose from the idol and worshipped them and they both blessed Markandeya
MARKAIVDEYA 489 MARUTS
and said will be fulfilled. You
"Every desire of yours gifton the full-moon day in the month of Karttika
will never be rugous or grey-haired and will live virtu- (November). (Chapter 272, Agni Purana).
ous and famous till the end of the world. Omniscience MARKANDEYASAMASYAPARVA. A sub-Parva of
will be an asset for you". After having said so much the Vana Parva of Mahabharata. This contains
ParvatI and Paramesvara disappeared. The Puranic be- chapters 82 to 242 of Vana Parva.
lief is that the realised soul of Markandeya is moving MARMAN. According to Indian Sastras there are 108
about in the universe. (10th Skandha, Chapters 8 to 11, Marmans in the body of a living being. Of these the
Bhagavata) . most important are forehead, eyes, eye-brows, arm-
6). Details from Mahabharata relating to Markandeya, pits, shoulders heart, chin etc. Bhavisya Purana,
(
1
)
This sage shone in the court of Dharmaputra, Chapter 34 says that a snake-bite or a heavy blow on
(Sloka 15, Chapter 4, Sabha Parva). any one of these marmans would prove fatal.
(ii) He sits in the court of Brahma and worships him MARTTIKAVANA (M). An ancient country in
(Sloka 12 , Chapter 11, Sabha Parva). Bharata. During the time of the Pandavas this country
(iii) Once Markandeya gave Dharmopades'a to the was ruled by King Salya. (Sloka 14, Chapter 16, Vana
Pandavas. (Chapter 25, Vana Parva) .
Parva). Paras' urama killed all the Ksatriyas of this
(iv) Markandeya sitting on the banks of the river Payo- country. (Sloka 12, Chapter 70, Drona Parva).
sni sang praises about river Payosni and king Nrga. Arjuna once made the son of Krtavarma the King of
(Sloka 5, Chapter 88, Vana Parva). this country. (Sloka 69, Chapter 77, Mausala Parva) .
(v) Once Markandeya narrated to Dharmaputra stories MARU I. A king of the Iksvaku dynasty, the father of
about Kings and Rsis. (Chapters 186 to 232, Vana Prasus'ruta and son of Slghra. He had become
Parva ) .
"Ciranjivl" (immortal) ty his Yogic power. According
(vi ) Markandeya had a vision of the great deluge. to Bhagavata Purana, all Ksatriya families would
(Chapter 1 88, Vana Parva) .
perish in Kaliyuga. At that time, Maru would come
(vii) This sage entered the belly of Balamukunda. back to the world to revive the Ksatriya race.
(Sloka 100, Chapter 188, Vana Parva). (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha).
(viii) Markandeya gave a description of Kaliyuga. MARU II. A Videha king of the Nimi dynasty.
(Sloka 7, Chapter 190, Vana Parva). (Bhagavata, 9th Skandha).
(ix) He described at another time the incarnation of MARU III. One of the chief lieutenants of Narakasura.
Kalki. (Sloka 93, Chapter 19, Vana Parva). He was slain by Sri Krsna.
(x) Once Markandeya narrated the story of Tripura- MARUBHOMI (MARUDHANVA). The ancient
vadha to Dharmaputra. (Sloka 2, Chapter 33, Kama name of Rajasthan. In Mahabharata,
the present
Parva) . Sabha Parva, Chapter 32, Verse 5 we see that Nakula
(xi) Markandeya was also one among the several had won a victory over Marudhanva during his
sages who visited Bhisma lying on his bed of arrows, triumphal march over the western country. Kamyaka-
(Sloka 11, Chapter 47, Santi Parva). vana in which is included Trnabindu sarovara, is in
(xii) Markandeya learnt Sahasranama (thousand Marudhanva. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 258,
names ) of Siva from Naciketas and taught the same to Verse 13). Marudhanva was also known as
Upamanyu. (Sloka 79, Chapter 17, AnuSasana Parva). "Marvata". The sage Uttai'.ka lived in Marvaia.
(xiii) Once Markandeya discussed with Narada topics In Mahabharata, AsVamedha Parva, Chapters 53, 54
on many different subjects. (Daksinatya Pa^ha, and 55 it is stated that once Sri Krsna showed his
Chapter 22, Anuiasana Parva) .
Vtevarupa to this sage at Marvata.
(xiv) Once Markandeya explained the evils of taking MARUDHA. A country of Puranic fame. Sahadeva
flesh as food. (Sloka 37, Chapter 115, Amis' asana conquered this place while he was on his victory march
Parva) . to the south. (Sloka 14, Chapter 31, Sabha Parva) .
he worshipped great sages before commencing the south Bharata. Those who stood on the right side of
the Krauncaruna Vyuha (a battle array) constructed
Mahaprasthana. (Sloka 12, Chapter 1. Prasthana
Parva, M.B.). by Dhrstadyumna in the Kuruksetra battle were the
people of Manila from south Bharata. (Sloka 57,
(xvii) Mahabharata gives the following synonyms for
Chapter 50, Bhisma Parva).
Markandeya: Bhargava, Bhargavasattama, Bhrgukula- MARUTAGANATIRTHA. (MARUDGAlVATlRTHA )
Sardula, Bhrgunandana, Brahmarsi and Viprarsi.
A sacred place. (M.B. Anulasana Parva, Chapter 25,
MARKAIVTDEYA (M). A famous holy place. This Verse 38).
situated about sixteen miles to the north of
place is
prestige of his family. (Sloka 80, Chapter 34, MARUTASKANDHA. An army of the Devas. The
Vana Parva) .
commander of the forces was Subrahmanya. (Sloka
MARKA^pEYAPURAtfA. One of the eighteen 55, Chapter 231, Vana Parva).
Puranas. The number of granthas in it is ninethousand. MARUTS. In the Puranas there are references to 49
It contains a critical
study of Dharma and Adharma. gods are known as "Maruts". All of them are
who
It is considered to be very good to the sons of KaSyapa. The story of how the child in
give this Purana as
MARUTTA I 49Q MARUTTA I
Kagyapa's first wife Aditi became the mother 'of Deyas ;; neighbourhood- of, Himalayas where his capital was
and his second wife Diti became '.the mother of Daityas. .
situated..
The chief of the Devas was jndra and. the .chiefs of .
, lf Aftqr the B.harata Yuddhaj.D.harmaputra was
l
in need
Daityas were Hiranyaksa and Hiranyakasipu. ^.-Ait- tin-
*
pfrryppey, to 're-establish administration and for his
request of Indra, Hiranyaksa and Hiranyakaiipi^ ..were conducting an As/vamedha yaga. At that time sage
slain byMahavisnu. Dili, who was grieved at the death Vyas.a, iafiprnaed him, about the gold
which Marutta
of her sons, approached Kasyapa ,and .requested., him . ,had left :ip ;Jh e neighbourhood of the Himalayas.
to give her a son who would be strong enough to jdll 1 1 was
by fetching that gold that the Pandavas conduct-
Indra. Kasyapa told her that if she coulp;; perform , .Asyamedjb.ayaga. (M,B. Asvamedha Parva,
,jpd their
tapas for 10, 000 Divyavarsas with due observances, Chapters 3-10).
she would get a son who would be able to kill Indra .
Z\ ,Mari#tg,, and Ravana. Once Ravana started on
t
and conquer the three worlds. He gave her a long Jist a triumphal tour in his Puspaka Vimana with his
of conditions to be observed during the tapas, spme of .
.
followeis..,It w,as at that time that Marutta was per-
,
do not curse; do not tell lies; dq not cut nails or .hair; ""present on that, occasion. Alarmed at the sight of
do not touch any unclean object; do not get angry, d_o ,
;
not speak to wicked people; ,do not wear soiled., cjofhes; r_ecci.yfd,^he,'. gods. assumed
(|
the shape of different ;
Sudra woman. Putting on cleaft, white dress, carrying chameleon; Varuna transformed himself into a swan,
auspicious substances, everyday before breakfast, cows, ,
with this austere observance, a son capable Answered with a smile of contempt "I am
3.Ravana :
Diti started the observance aa advised by her husband. that .ypu^do. .not know, Ravana who is the younger
brazier of Kubera ? There is no one but you
in all
Kar'yapa left for Udaya mounjtaiin. 4fter his flepa^ture,
:
Indra came to the Asrama and.; pretending .friei\dship the three worlds, who does not know me. I have won
offered to serve Diti as an attendant., pitj accepted |iis elder brother."
,.
;
;,.4he.PuspakaYim^na after defeating my
offer and allowed him to.serye her. One, day Diti who ,
was utterly tired fell asleep and Indra; took, advantsjge 'brother who has. defeated his elder brother, you are
of this opportunity and gained entrance into her womb
, :
<certainb/ ajgreat" man, There is
,
no praiseworthy hero
through her nostrils. .He cut ,the child in Dili's womb worlds. Do you brag
Pjeq.ua^tpry quin^all these three
with his weapon Vajra into, seven pieces. A^ .that time that you have defeated your elder brother ? I do not
,
the child cried alpud and Jndra .said tot jtt, "jida. ruda" ;, s know.whether- ypu have received the boon by your
,
which means "Do not cry''. He put each, cf;the :sey en ; Tjghtepii&^pncjuc.t. I have not
h'eard the stories which
pieces again into seven pieces and thus, 49 'you have told just now. You wicked fellow, stop there !
explained to her that. he destroyed the^child in he.r for a .fight here. have started "Mahe.'varasalra". We
womb since he was destined tp be bis (jndra's) enemy. If we' dp not bring it to a conclusion, the whole family
MARUTTA I. A wealthy king who lived jn, JC$ayuga. ^ ,
Virhsa, Kalyana, Khanmetra, SuvarcaSj Karandhama 'Marutta -fajif do\iVn his bow and began to occupy
1
and Marull'a. himself again with ihe affairs of the Yajna._ Just then
2) Marutta got gold. As soon as Marutta became
How Sukra -shouted, "Ravana has won." The Raksasas and
king he began to perform a Yaga. Monev was required ';' their leader Ravana continued their tour after eating
for it. He was puzzled as to how .19' raise .funds. Be- the 3vf aharsis who'had come to take part in the Yaga.
sides, Indra was irying to obstruct
ihe Yaga/ At fejt, ; Aftef Ravarta. left the'place, the Devas resumed their own
he consulted Narada who tp]d" hjm 'flhiat' .Brhaspitrs
Ramafana)'.
brpther Sarhvartaka was pepfprming, tapas in the forest
and if Marutta approached^irrij; he/. wbii)d give him
Yama's assembly. (M.B.
Marutta flpurished in
enough money for this purpose, So"jMaru'tia went to (i) ^
Accordingly Marutla went to Kailasa_ and got plenty (ii) Marutta is. gpnsidered as one of the "Pancamaha-
of gold
o * v Siva and returned .witji it and
by/ worshipping .
fV,'
'sainr^iis"tfJyefi3-eat
^j^^t -r?v
'-.'
emperors). The five great emperors
i. '*.-'.' .' .; .'
MARUTTA II 4U1
MASA(S)
are Yuvanasva, Bhaglratha, K.artaVJrya7; Bhatfaiai and Laksmana could 'be revived; Jafnbavan observed that
Marutta. (M.B: Sakha' Pdfva,' Chapter 15i)Y'.'--v.'->V:' (;.; i;there i was a herb caJled "Dronam" in one of the peaks
Siva presepted him' j'-Jdf-the:
Himalayas arid .'if it was brought at once,
(iii)^Once a^gpfdeh'peak ^ ''^Lakshiana could beirestored to his senses. Hanuman ;
.
Himalayas. In.dra, ^rhaspa.h and* other p'e\ -. fleW; to the Himalayas immediately. But although he '
combed the' forests there, .he was not able to find the
golden. His cooks were groups 'of Maruts,: He was aji>le
to make herb Dr6naTn: So he tore away and lifted a whole peak
:
we.seVth^VMiarutta
'returned, to Lanka: 'Jambavan took the needed herbs
'
^.y^^ s
i.i India.' This '.is the
present' MarutvamaJa. (Mala means
e. ;: ;
.;',-, .....:
;
J
{jT)
.
'
'Ma^utyati 'Vv'as Uje 'daughter or Daksa, and
This
the wife
. See^ndef-
The mother of two Marutvans.
MARUTVATI.
' ^"
W Sadhya, 'Marutyaris- weire'Vqrn to Marutvati, Vasus
adopted Dusyanta, a King of the Puru
"-'* U
dvMstV;'
.JTT
ai' -'his
TTt'SD "' '
'.
Were i'b'orti ..to "vasil, .B^i^nus V^e're btirn toBhanu, Ghbsa
;
crn
son.
* .
':**',*
M..''.J. ! rij-..r 5
; -
IV
'Was b'bin to L^ariiM' an d fragayhhl was born to Yami.
.
:
.'- .- '.: ''!:;::; ';
'.tjijilfi
MARUTTA II. A great sage^.He .'renteted.Ainfe' a ^('Vforiil Pur-ana^ Pitt I^Clikfyter .15) .
dispute with Sri Krsna; who -was on fiis..waystdiHastiha- MARYADA I. , A princess of Vidarbha. She was married
pura as the messenger of theiPanidayas.2 v'.feiy . the king; Ar.yacina. In Mahabharata, Adi
named
Parva, Chapter 83,, Verse 27 )r' ad? Chapter 95, Verse :l, it is said that a son named
'
to ifiin ,
,
'
;
.{ -'..''jS'M ;'.
;
f.' .:!'". ijC born, to thern; ,
MARUTVAMALA. In SQutkjpdia; .at^the^utherttrtip
of the Sahya ranges, a mouritaiareputed jf<i>i; .medjqinal MARYADA II. A daughter of the king of Videha, Deva-
king of the Pilru dynasty married her. Mahabha-
lf
tithi 'a
herbs., may still be seeji, Tljde, raoufitain,is.,l5nt>'vv jby the 5l
"
i'ala ,!l Aai Parva, Chapte^ 95, verse 23 says that a son,
:
! ;
'
.
i
;
,\imder, ;
TfcfTH.VT" T"" 1
(MONTHS),
Ravana. Ravana's younger brother Viblii ?ani.,a',jjpJteed > ... . *v ,
*j^
,
S)
.,
\
* -
i
1
{ .for, a year there, are twelve months. There are six
endeavour to saye yibl]iana v Lja^mana .'^l^q^wn '..different'. kinds of months in .force in Bharata. They
unconscious. Rama and. his fpilpwqrjL ctiscusse^J^ow '.'.', 'jVlte Wf. folio wj n g :
'
'
r '
>
'
'
:<
-.
,
V, T'k!' ,
Malayalam
* ftimit
'
- - :
, Arabic Suriyani
-.: v .
;
II , '::'':
'
:
r ':... -
. .
.
1. Cinnam ,
Avani. ) ,' Sravana August Of
'
2. Kanni Purattasr 1
Prosthapada fc
.September Ilun
3. Tulam As'vina'
: '
'
: - October Tasrlnkadim
:
'
..!<..
: : " -1 -;; -
T,- .'-
T :"
W
- i
., ,.
4. Vrscikam Utsam,,.
igi&ff 6& Noyember
'
, :
(
,
( cO i , uvsiJ .
i
_
Tesrinhroyi
5. Dhanu Mifkali'- ^..
..jjamadul
1
.-, Konunka-
dim
6. Makaram iai ;s
r
Konunhroyi
7. Kumbham C~ Masi '"
-r;
V
:J
isRajab ./,:,.-.'
Magha; ;*.#.
:
/ February Sibottu
8. Mlnam Odor
'.
9. Medam '
12.
Mithunam
iviiiiiuiiaiii
Karkatakam r
- ;
;Ati
. \ui
;
,,
,,-.'/J i ()
.
y" v -
-
i,:
"
: ---
i
'Jyiistha .?*i'P ^
JUfie
!(C -" : ''^ :
>
;:
I.-
Tommus
v'iih
:
.:. .
> .;<-:
. :
:
Oi
,:
MASA(S) MATAJNIGA I
2) . What the names of the months indicate. x) October means the eighth month.
1). Malaydlam months. The months are named based xi) November means the ninth month,
on certain beliefs. It takes twelve months for the earth xii) December means the tenth month.
to go round the Sun once. When the earth passes through MASAKA (M) . A place in the ancient island of Saka.
the twelve divisions, it faces a separate set of constella- Mahabharata, Bhisma Parva, Chapter 1 1
says that in
taions in the universe in each of these divisions. In the ancient times, Kings used to live there for the fulfil-
month of Cinnam the earth faces a cluster of constella- ment of their desires.
tions in the shape of a lion and so the month is called MASARSARA. A king of the Rgveda period. Rgveda,
Sirhha (lion) or Cinnam. In the next division the 1st Mandala, 18th Anuvaka, 122nd Sukta says that this
earth faces the constellations in the shape of a Kanyaka king used to persecute the Aryans.
and so the month was called Kanni. The earth faces MASAVRATOPAVASA. Puranas mention about the
next the constellations in the shape of a balance and so months in which Vratas are to be observed with efficacy
the month was called Tulam (Tula <= balance) In the . and the details are given below :
shape of a scorpion and so the month was called Vri- get children and vehicles in plenty and would become
cikam (scorpion) . The set of constellations which faces pure. (Sloka 29, Chapter 106, AnuSasana Parva).
the earth in the next division is shaped like a bow (2) He who fasts the whole day of the Dvadasi in Tulam
(dhanus) and so the month got the name Dhanu. In the and worships Visnu will get the benefit of making a
next division the earth faces a set of constellations in Sahasragodana (giving away thousand cows as gift ) .
the shape of a Makaramatsya (makara-fish ) and so (Sloka 3, Chapter 106, AnuSasana Parva).
the month was called Makaram. Kumbha means a jar ( 3) He who fasts for one time of the day in Vrscikam
and Minam means a fish and Medam (Mesa) means will become a very brave and valorous man and
a goat and Idavam (Rsabha) means an ox. The shapes acquire many wives and fame. (
Sloka 30, Chapter
of the constellations in those divisions are like the things 106, AnuSasana Parva) .
mentioned and the months were so named after them. (4) All men and women who worship Visnu on the
In the next two divisions the constellations appear as dvadasi day in Vrs'cikam fasting for the whole day will
twins and a crab respectively and the months were so get the benefit of a Godanayajfta. (Sloka 14, Chapter
calledMithunam (twins) and Karkatakam (crab). 109, Anusasana Parva).
2). English months. (5) He who fasts for one time a day during the month
i) January has come from the word Janus, the name of of Mesa will get gold, diamonds and pearls in plenty
a Roman devata. Janus is twinfaced, one facing the front and will be born in a high family in his next birth.
and the other back. (Sloka 23, Chapter 106, AnuSasana Parva).
ii ) February means 'to purify' and the festival of purifi- (6) If one fasts the whole of the Dvadas'i day in the
cation of the Romans is conducted in that month, month of Mesa one would get the benefit of conducting
iii) March is Mars, a devata of War. Rome was built a Pundarika. (Sloka 7 Chapter 109, Anusasana Parva).
by the brave warrior Romulus. In his time there were (7) He who fasts for one time in a day in the month of
only ten months in a year and the number of days Mithuna will become very prosperous. (Sloka 25, Chap-
in a month varied considerably. There were months ter 106, Anusasana Parva).
with twenty days and thirtyfive days. It was in the (8) If one fasts the whole day and night of the Dvadasi
year 700 B.C. that the then King of Rome, Numa, in Mithuna and does Trivikrama puja one would not
divided the year into twelve months and added January only get the benefit of conducting a Gomedayajna but
and February to it. Till then March was the first month willbe able to enjoy sexual pleasures with celestial
of the year. maidens. (Sloka 9, Chapter 109, Anusasana Parva).
iv) April Aperio means 'blossoming' and since the MASlRAM. A place of habitation in ancient India. There
trees and plants blossom in that month it got the name is a reference to this region in Mahabharata, Bhisma
of April. Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 53.
v) May is named after Maia daughter of the demigod MATA5IGA I. An ancient sage. The Ramayana in
(devata) Atlas. There is an opinion that it is named Aranya Kanda describes the asrama of Matanga.
after Maius, another name of Jupiter, Ramalaksmanas after crossing the forest of Kraunca
vi) June
gets its name after the devata Juno though there came to the as'rama of Matanga. Kabandha was slain
is a version that it is named after a Roman tribe called at this place After abandoning his demoniac body
Junius. Kabandha extolled the greatness of Matangasrama
vii)July was formerly known as Qjuintilis meaning the to Rama and Laksmana. "The flowers of this asrama
fifthcounting from March which was the first month of are never plucked and worn on heads. Even if they are
the year till the time of Numa. It was to commemorate not plucked they never fade. They remain fresh always.
the name of Julius Caesar that the name was changed There is a reason for this. The disciples of Matanga
to July. once brought a heavy load of fruits for their guru and
viii) August. This month was formerly known as Sex- when they reached the as'rama they were tired and
tilismeaning the sixth month. But it was renamed Aug- drops of perspiration fell on the plants and they became
ust in honour of Augustus Caesar. But it still lacked flowers. Sabarl is performing penance in this asrama."
the importance of July as it contained thirtyone days and Matanga once cursed happened that while the
Bali. It
August only thirty days. So Augustus took one day sage was living on the mountain of Rsyamuka Bali and
from February and made the number of days in August the agora Dundubhi fought against each other and
thirtyone. blood flowing from the body of Dundubhi by a blow
ix) September means the seventh month from March. of BJIi spurted out and fell on the hands of the sage.
MATAJsIGA II 493 MATSYA II
Matahga then cursed Bali saying that his head would was born rose up and ran to Indra for driving his
blow off if he entered Rsyamukacala again. (Sarga 46, chariot.
Kiskindha Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana and Kamba When the Gandharvas knew he was coming to help
Ramayana, Purva Kanda). Matangaf'rama was a holy Indra, they showered him with brilliance and the child
place. (Chapter 84, Vana Parva) .
approaching Indra said "Oh, Lord of the Devas, I
MATA51GA II. Another name of TriSariku. The name of shall be your charioteer." Indra asked him, "Child,
Matanga is used for Raj ar si Trisanku in Verse 31, of whose son are you ? How will you drive my horse ? I
Chapter 71, of Adi Parva. For more detail see under doubt your competence." The child replied, "I am the
TriSanku. son born to Samika on the ground. I have been given
MATAJNlGA III. A maharsi born to a barber of a power and brilliance by the Gandharvas and so I am
brahmin woman. This clandestine birth was not known capable of driving your chariot." On hearing this, Indra
either to the brahmin husband or Matanga for a long accepted him as his charioteer and named him Matali.
time. Once his brahmin father sent him to the fields MATARISVAN. A devata (demigod). There are
for ploughing. He put a donkey to the yoke and plough- several stories in the Vedas regarding the birth of Agni
ed. When the donkey slowed down its work Matanga (fire) Though Agni originating from the clouds rea-
.
beat it hard. The mother of the donkey saw it and wept. ches the earth as lightningit hides itself making it invisi-
She called Matanga to her side and told him that he ble to man. It was MatarisVan who took its form from
was the son of a barber and that was why he behaved the earth and gave it to the Bhrgu family and made it
like a candala showing no kindness towards the animal. possible for them to make it as and when it was requir-
Matanga ran to his house and told his parents what ed. (Rgveda) .
the mother-donkey said. After that he left his house This MatariSvan was one of the prominent sons of
and did penance to become a brahmin. Indra was Garuda. (Sloka 14, Chapter 10, Udyoga Parva).
pleased and he asked Matanga what he wanted and he MATHANA. An asura on the side of Tarakasura. Maha-
replied he wanted to become a brahmin. Indra made visnu killed him. (Chapter 152, Matsya Purana).
him a brahmin and sent him back. (Chapter 27, Anusa- MATHARA 1. A demigod deputed by Indra to serve
sana Parva). Surya (Sun) This demigod always sits on the right side
.
MATA&GA IV. A preceptor. He was the guru of Sabari. of Surya, (Brahma Parva, Bhavisya Purana).
(Aranya Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana). MATHARA II. Oneof the Astadakavinayakas (Eighteen
MATAisIGA. Sage Matahga was known by this name Vinayakas) .
(Samba, 16).
also. (See under Matanga). MATHARA III. An acarya (teacher). He is believed to
be the author of the book Sankhyakarikavrtti. (Kausi-
MATA&GAKEDARA. A sacred place. He who bathes
taki Brahmana) .
in apond there would get the benefit of making a MATHARAVANA. A
thousand Godanas (Chapter 85, Vana Parva). holy place in Daksina Bharata.
The victory pillar of Matharaka, an aide of Surya, is
MATAJSlGl. The great grandmother of the elephants. situated here. (Sloka 10, Chapter 88, Vana Parva).
Matangi was the daughter of Krodhavas'a, daughter of MATHURA. The birth place of Sri Krsna.
Ddksa and wife of Ka^yapaprajapati. Matangi had nine MATI. A daughter of Daksaprajapati. She became the
sisters. Elephants were born of Matangi. (Sarga 14, wife of Dharmaraja. (Sloka 15, Chapter 66, Adi
Aranya Kanda; Valmiki Ramayana). Parva).
MATALI. Charioteer of Indra. Chapter 69 of Vamana MATINARA. A King of Puruvarhs'a. The line from Puru
Purana gives the following story about the birth of is as follows Puru - Janamejaya-Pracinvan-Manasyu-
:
Matali.
Vitabhaya - Sundu - Bahuvidha - Sarhyati-Rahovadi-
A child was born to sage Samika. It was the time
Bhadrasva-Rkseyu-Krseyu-Sannateyu-Ghrteyu
- Sthan-
new weapon for him. Mahavisnu then appeared before MATKULIKA. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
him and advised him to praise the glory of Agni. Indra 19, Chapter 467, Salya Parva) .
did so and then a divine weapon rose from the fire. MATRTlRTHA. A sacred place situated on the out-
Indra flew at the asuras carrying the new weapon. skirts of Kuruksetra. If one bathes in a holy pond
There was no clever charioteer to drive the chariot of there one would be rich in children. (Sloka 58, Chapter
Indra. Still, seated in the golden chariot given to Vana
83, Parva).
him by the Vasus Indra drove very swiftly against the
asuras. The earth shivered by the din of the chariot-
MATSYA I. The first and foremost incarnation of Maha-
visnu. (See under Avatara) .
wheels.
When the earth began to quake the sage Samlka follow- MATSYA An
ancient country of Puranic fame. The
II.
ing directions of his wife Tapasvini placed the child people of this country are called Matsyas. The details
on the ground outside the hermitage. An astrologer had available regarding Matsyadesa from the Mahabharata
told her that a child would become two if it was are given below :
(4) Sahadeva during his victory march to the south The sage was furious and he cursed Ravana saying
conquered the people of Matsyade'a. (Sloka 4, Chapter lhat his Candrahasa would thenceforth have no effecl
31, Sabha Parva). al all. (Yuddha Kanda, Kamba Ramayana).
(5) Matsyadesa was one of the countries suggested by MAUHURTTIKAGATI. When ihe Sun passes through
Arjuna to spend their life incognito. (Sloka 12, the centre of Puskaradvipa it covers a palh equivalenl
Chapter 1 Virata Parva )
,
. lo a thirtieth parl of ihe earlh and ihis journey of ihe
(6) Virata was the chief of Matsyade-'a during the Sun is called Mauhurtlikagati. (See under Surya).
time of Mahabharata. (Sloka 17, Chapter 1, Virata MAUNjAYANA. A maharsi. This sage shone in the
Parva) . courl of Yudhisthira. (Sloka 13, Chapter 4, Sabha
(7) In the Kuruksetra battle Virata, King of Matsya- Parva) .
dei-'a, came to the help of Yudhisthira with an Aksau- MAURAVAPASA. See under Mura.
hinl (army). (Sloka 12, Chapter 18, Udyoga Parva). MAURVl. A kind of grass. Il is wilh ihis grass lhat
(8) The Pandavas spent a year of their life incognito ascelics make mekhala (waistlet) .
(Sloka 33, Chapter
at the palace of Virata, king of Matsyadesa. (Chapter 1 7, Drona Parva) .
Rama-Ravana bailie. (Chapter 10, Agni Purana). 2) Domestic life. Maya and Hema went lo the valley
MATTAMAYORA(S). A special tribe of Ksatriyas. south of Himavan and built there a city named "Hema-
Nakula, one of the Pandavas, defeated these people pura". While leading a happy life there, two sons,
during his victory march to the west. (Sloka 5. Chapter Mayavl and Dundubhi were born them. Bui ihey had
to
deva as a feast. (See under the word "Khandavadaha") . (iii) In Kathasaritsagara Madanamancukalambaka,
While Agni was furiously feeding upon the forests, the 8th Taranga we see that Maya was an incarnation of
human and animal inhabitants in it began to flee from Vis'vakarma.
it. Krsna and Arjuna shot them down with arrows. At (iv) At the time when Mahavisnu as Vamana took the
that time Maya was hiding himself in the disguise of three worlds from Mahabali, Maya joined with other
Taksaka. When the flames of fire approached that place Danavas and fought against Vamana. (M.B. Bhavisya
Maya left his shelter and rushed out. Sri Krsna aimed Parva, Chapter 55) .
his weapon Cakra at him. Crying aloud with fear, (v) Once Maya was relaxing with his friends on the
Maya ran to Arjuna praying for protection. Arjuna Malaya mountain. Knowing about it Mahesvara sent
stopped Agnideva and Sri Krsna and thus saved Maya Indra to that mountain- Indra challenged the Danavas
(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 240). for a fight. In the battle that followed, Indra killed the
From that time, Maya became a loyal follower of Danava named Paka. Thus he got the name, "Paka-
Arjuna. After Khandavadaha, Krsna and Arjuna were sasana". Indra killed Pura, the son of Mahabali also in
taking rest when Maya approached them with joined that battle and so came to be known as "Purandara"
palms and asked Arjuna what he should do in return The remaining Danavas under the leadership of Maya
for saving him from the fury of Krsna and the fled to Patala. (Vamana Purana, Chapter 71).
blazing
fire. Arjuna replied that he
expected no return from MAYA.
Maya for saving his life but wanted only his friend- 1) General information. A consort of Mahavisnu, Maya
ship. Maya was not satisfied. He insisted that Arjuna has got a very prominent place in Hindu Puranas. The
should accept some service from him as a token of his Puranas state that this whole universe is unreal, illusory
deep gratitude. On hearing this, Sri Krsna suggested and if we feel it real it is because of the working of this
that Maya, should build a beautiful palace for Maya.
the Pandavas. Accordingly he built a
magnificent 2) Birth. How was Maya born? Agni Purana in its
palace for the Pandavas at the place called Khandava- twentieth chapter gives a genealogy of Maya. Hirhsa
prastha. (M.B. Sabha Parva, Chapter 1).
(injury) is the wife of Adharma ( evil) They got two
.
4) Maya settled down in Vindhya. Once Maya sought children named Anrta (falsehood) and Nikrti (wicked-
shelter from Mahavisnu. Visnu offered shelter to
and so he built a mansion called "Sudharma" for all
Maya ness). From them were born Bhaya(fear), Naraka(hell)
the Devas. It was a building of Maya (illusion) and Vedana(pain) Maya in turn gave
.
inexpressible beauty and birth to Death, the destroyer of all pain produced from
rare architectural
workmanship. The Asuras who Hate or Misery. Mrtyu (death) produced Vyadhi
became angry with Maya for his alliance with the Devas
made preparations to attack him. Alarmed at it, (disease), Jara (rugosity), Soka (sorrow), Trsna (desire)
Maya and Krodha (anger).
fled southwards with his family and reached
Vindhya.
There he built a lovely mansion and settled down in it. Mahavisnu once told Narada thus
3) Exhibition of Maya. :
(Kathasaritsagara, Madanamaficukalambaka, 3rd' "There isnothing like living beings on earth. All is an
Taranga) .
illusion due to Maya." Narada requested Mahavisnu
In Valmiki Ramayana, Kiskindha to show him that and Visnu took Narada to the banks
kanda, 50th sarga
also there is a reference to this wonderful of a river and exhibited the wonderful working of
mansion
which Maya built on the Vindhya mountain. In their
Maya. (For details see under Taladhvaja I).
search for Sita, Hanuman and the other monkeys 4) How Gathi, a brahmin, saw Maya. In the country
reached the Vindhya mountain. There
they combed the of Kosala there was once a brahmin named Gathi.
forests and caves to find out Sita. When
they came to He went to the forests and standing there in water in
the peak to the south west of the
mountain, they saw a a pond, immersed up to his neck, started doing penance.
huge dark cave. They entered it and cautiously moved For eight months he did penance thus and then Maha-
forward. After a long and tedious walk the visnu appeared before him and asked him what boon
monkeys
MAYA 496 MAYAS VA I
he wanted. The brahmin said he wanted to see lamented that such a mass suicide was due to him and
Maya-
devi.Visnu granted the boon and he also made a fire-pit and jumped into it.
disappeared.
Several years passed after that and nothing happened. The heat of the fire-pit woke him from his
day-dream
One day the brahmin as usual went to bathe in a pond. and Giithi found himself in the
pond where he had
When he took a dip in the waters he forgot all his
come to bathe. "What! Who
am I? What all roles did
prayers and mantras. There was a change of mind. He
I now?" These puzzling thoughts filled him
take just
felt he was lying dead in his house. Relatives were
and he went back to the asrama and started life as
usual. One day an old friend of his came to the aSrama
sitting around weeping. His wife was in tears and was
holding his legs. In an atmosphere of mourning, his own
and after the daily routine they lay down to
sleep.
people weeping bitterly carried his body to a frightening During their conversation Gathi asked his friend why
burial ground and put it on a funeral he had become fleshless and so lean. Then his friend
pyre. It was burnt
to ashes. He then felt himself in the womb af a Candala narrated a story exactly similar to the experiences
woman living in a village near Hunamandala. 'the which Gathi had country of Kira. He added
in the
foetus developed and a black that to atone for the sin of his association with the
boy was born. The boy
grew passing the stages of infancy, childhood and boy- Candalas he was conducting Prayagasnana (bath in
hood and became a man, black and stout. He started Prayaga), Japa and Candrayanamahavrata. All those
enjoying sexual life with a beautiful candala girl. The
'
things he explained, made him lean.
amorous plays were done on leaf-beds, in Gathi knew that the story of the guest related to him
creeper-huts,
bushes and in caves and soon and he was eager to visit the country of Kira. When he
many evil-natured sons went to Kira he saw everything there in the same
were born to him. Gradually his health faded and he way
constructed a hermitage and lived there as a hermit. as in his dream. Then he realised that it was an ex-
His children grew up and he became old and then all hibition by Visnu of the working of
Maya. Gathi then
on a sudden all his children and wife and other renounced everything and went into a cave and started
members of his family died and he was left alone. He doing penance there. After some years Maha Visnu
then left the place and
travelling much reached the appeared before him and blessed him. (Jnanavasistha) .
capital city of Klramandala. The city gates were deco- MAYADAR&ANAPARVA. A subdivision of Adi Parva,
rated and inside people stood in in Mahabharata. Chapters 227 to 233 of Adi
groups. The road to Parva,
the palace from the gate had been beautified and as he are included.
reached the palace gates he saw an
elephant as big and
MAYADHARA. An got down Pururavas
asura. Indra
black as mountain
standing there well caparisoned. It
to fight against this demon who was always giving
was customary in those days to post an trouble to the devas. Pururavas killed Mayadhara in a
elephant well
bedecked before the palace gates when a died.
battle. The day the demon was killed Indra gave a
The elephant he saw was one who had beenKing let loose banquet in honour of Pururavas. After the banquet
to select a new King in the there was a dance performance by Rambha and as she
place of the one who had
just died. The elephant on seeing him took him by its
was dancing before Acarya Tumburu, Pururavas openly
trunk and placed him on its back. The criticised Rambha for the mistake in
people when dancing she
they saw it shouted "The King", "The King". Drums committed then. Tumburu did not relish it and he
were beaten and people shouted with cursed Pururavas saying that Pururavas would bear a
joy. He was
taken to the palace where he was received separation from his wife UrvaSi. It was because of this
by young curse that Urvasi was once carried away from the palace
and beautiful girls. He was dressed in
royal robes and
he took over the administration of the state. of Pururavas by the Gandharvas. (Kathasaritsagara,
Gradually
he accepted as his wives the wives of the former Taranga 3, Lavanakalambaka) .
and lived there accepting the name of Galava. King He MAYAMRGA. Marica, uncle of Ravana, took the form
ruled the state to the satisfaction of all for of a beautiful deer to tempt Sita and went to the
eight asrama where Sita was staying. This deer is called
years. One day the King went out for a stroll dressed
as an ordinary man. Just outside the
gate of the palace
Mayamrga. (See under MARlCA).
a set of Candalas were
sitting singing songs to the
MAYAPURI. A city of the asuras. (See under Kraunca) .
accompaniment of a violin. As soon a? they saw Galava MAYASlTA. When Rama and Laksmana were in exile
one of the Candalas, a red-eyed old in the forests with Sita, Ravana came to carry away
man, got up from
the group and addressing the Sita. At that time the real Sita disappeared in Agni
King as "Hi, Kalanju" and
shouted loudly, "Friend, where had in her place a false Sita was installed. It was this
you been all this
time ? It is a long time since we saw phantom Sita who was carried away by Ravana and
you. It is our luck
we saw you at least now". The who lived in Lanka till the time of Ravana's death. It
King of Kira did not
like thewords of the Candala and he rebuked the old was this Mayasita whom Rama asked to jump into the
man. The queens and others fire to test her purity. At that time Mayasita disap-
standing on the terrace of
the palace could see this scene.
They were shocked. They peared and the real Sita came out from the fire. (See
regretted they had all along been serving a Candala. under SlTA).
The news spread like wild fire in the state. The MAYASlVA. Padma Purana gives a story of how once an
had to live in the palace
King asura named Jalandhara approached ParvatI as Siva to
without the help and co-oper-
ation of anybody inside or outside the induce her to surrender to his desires. This Siva was
palace.
called Mayas iva.
People wanted to atone for the crime they had commit- A
ted in installing a Candala as their great battle between the devas and asuras was going
King. They made on. The asuras were winning and the devas got
frighten-
small firepits throughout the
country and started ed at the strength of the asuras and so Siva himself
committing suicide by jumping into it. The King entered the battlefield. Jalandhara who led the army of
MAYASIVA 497 MAYASIVA
the asuras found the fight against Siva very
tough and became their disciples taking human form. Then Visnu
smelt defeat. He decided to cheat Parvati, the consort created mental agony in Vrnda to attract her to his
of Siva, to compensate for his defeat in the battle-field as"rama. Vrnda started getting hot and her maids
and so making an asura named Sumbha as the chief, fanned her continuously and anointed her with sandal-
he left for Kailasa. Sumbha became a maya Jalandhara wood paste. She thought of her husband in the battle-
and continued the fight. field and often fainted. She had a very bad dream. She
Taking another asura named Durvarana, Jalandhara saw her husband Jalandhara lying wounded on his
went to a cave in Kailasa and there changed himself head, ears and nose, with his body smeared with ashes
into an exact replica of Siva. He made Durvarana look and his eyes pecked by vultures. She saw Kali, with her
like Nandikesa. hair lying lose, her face reddened with blood, with a
Then they went to the top of the mountain where Par- skull in her hand dancing before the body of her hus-
vatland her companions were staying. Siva approached band before starting to eat it. At this moment she was
Parvati on the shoulders of Nandikesa with wounds all awakened by the music of the Magadhas and loud
over his body and blood oozing from them. Parvatl chanting of family praises by Kimpurusas. She at once
seeing Siva thus, with tears rolling down her cheeks stopped the music and prayers and paid them off. Then
asked him, "Oh, Lord of the gods what happened to she sent word for pandits to explain the dream she saw.
your lordship ? Who defeated you in the battle ? Why The Pandits said "Devi, this appears to be a dream
do you weep like a low-bred man ?" Mayas iva took giving unimaginable fear. To calm the fear give as gifts
from his body all his ornaments like Vasuki and gave to brahmins, diamonds, garments, cows and elephants."
them to the companions of Parvatl. When Parvati saw Then the brahmin pandits sprinkled on her, water made
the heads of Ganapati and Subrahmanya in the hands
potent by mantras. There was no waning of the fever.
of her husband she cried in bitterness. Siva told her Dismissing the pandits, queen Vrnda went and sat
that all his parsadas like Manibhadra, Virabhadra, alone upstairs. She felt the whole palace burning and
Puspadanta, Damana, Dhumatamra and Kusmanda by the craft employed by Visnu she found living inside
were killed in the battle. Candi, Bhrrigi, Kiriti, Maha- the palace unbearable.
kala, Srnkhall, Candida and Guptanetra were all killed. She got out of the palace and boarding a chariot drawn
Mayasiva told her that he had picked up the heads of
by mares she went to her play- garden. The sight of
Ganapati and Subrahmanya found lying in the battle- the garden filled with beautiful flowers and celestial
field. He requested Parvatl to console him
by embracing maidens where no one else but pleasing breeze could
him. Parvati resented the request. She said, "What enter made her remember her husband. She then
you say is unfit for the situation. Sexual enjoyment is brooded on how to find out Jalandhara, and there also
forbidden in times of misery, fear, meditation, vomiting she did not get peace of mind. So she accompanied
fever, performing offering to the manes, journey, royal
by her maids started for another garden. That garden
visits, marriage festivities and in the presence of elders
gave a ghastly sight with huge trees standing crowded
and teachers. Why do you make this request to me
interspersed with black rocks and the place resounding
when I am mourning the death of my sons ?
with the roars of lions and tigers. Vrnda got frightened
Pretending to be grief-stricken Mayasiva said "She who and she hastened to say "Smaradutl, I feel frightened.
does not give sexual pleasure to a man in distress would Please drive back the chariot home."
go to hell. have no parsadas now. I have lost my
I
Hearing this Smaradutl said, "Oh, Devi, I do not know
sons also. my house. Now you also hate me. I am
I lost
the place. I do not understand the directions also. To
going to my cave. Let me end my life there. Come which direction am I to drive ? The hor. es look tired.
c
come here to do penance and if it pleases you, you can MAYAVATl. An incarnation of Ratidevl. An asura
come and stay in my afirama and do penance. We can named Sambara made her his wife. But Pradyumna,
go to another forest far away from here." As soon as son of Krsna, carried her away to Dvaraka. (See under
they reached the aSrama Mahavisnu appeared before Pradyumna).
her in the figure of Jalandhara. They embraced each MAYAVl. An asura.
other and lived there joyfully for many days. One day 1) Birth.Mayavl was oorn to the great architect of
at the end of a sexual act Vrnda saw instead of Jalan- the Danavas, Maya, of his wife Hema, a nymph. Maya
dhara the ascetic in embrace with her. She was shocked in love with Hema when he once found her dancing
fell
and stood up separated from him. Then Mahavisnu in Devaloka and the devas coming to know of it gave her
said "Vrnda, I am Visr.u husband of Laksmi. Your in marriage to Maya. Maya took Hema to the southern
husband has gone to conquer Siva and get Parvati for side of the Himalayas and constructing a city there
himself. I am Siva also. We appear separate. Your hus- called Hemapura stayed there happily. They got two
band Jalandhara has been killed in the battle. Join with sons named Mayavl and Dundubhi. (Uttara Rama-
me."' yana) .
you go in my dress to Siva and find out whether he is MAYIL (PEACOCK). In Uttara Ramayana there is
really Siva or not. If he kisses you and embraces you he a story about how the peacock got its beauty. Mayil in
will surely be a danava come in disguise by his
Maya. Malayalam means peacock.
But if he asks you about my welfare he will be real Siva. Once Ravana set out in his Puspaka Vimana with his
Go and tell me what happens." army of Raksasas, determined to gain victory over all
Jaya went to Mayai'iva. Jalandhara when he saw her Kings. They got down on the mountain called Us'iravira.
mistook her for Parvati and caught hold of her and Ravana examined the valley to see whether there were
immediately semen flowed out from him. Jaya returned any Kings doing tapas anywhere there. A King named
and told Parvati that it was Jalandhara and not Siva. Marutta was performing a yaga called "Mahesvara" in
Parvati afraid of Jalandhara hid in a lotus and her an asrama. Indra and other gods were also present to
companions became beetles sitting on the lotus. In the receive the share of offerings (Havirbhaga). At the sight
meantime the guards of the palace finding the queen of Ravana, the gods took different disguises and fled
absent from the palace reported the matter to Sumbha in panic. At that time Indra assumed the form of a big
fighting against Siva. He sent Candamundas to Jalan- peacock. As soon as Ravana left the place, the gods re-
dhara to inform him of the situation. Jalandhara came assembled there. From that time, Indra who put on the
back to the battle-field running and took up the fight disguise of a peacock felt a special attachment to that
against Siva again. bird. He called the peacock and said: "Till now you
MAYASURA. An asura. He had a daughter named were blue in colour. But from today onwards, your
Somaprabha. (Kathasaritsagara) .
feathers will have various colours. All my thousand eyes
MAYtTRA 499 MEDHAVI I
I transfer to you. Besides, you will be immune from all daughters including Medha were married by Dharma-
diseases. Whoever kills you, will meet with death, soon deva. (Chapter 7, Visnu Purana). '
leading the horse. After making them unconscious, MEDHATITHI II. A Rajarsi of the Puru dynasty.
he entered the city with the sacrificial horse. Genealogy. Puru Janamejaya Praclnvan Manasyu
When they recovered their senses, Sri Krsna disguised Vltabhaya Sundu Bahuvidha Sarhyati Rahovadl
himself as a Brahmana and Arjuna as a Brahmana boy Bhadrasva Matinara Pratiratha Kanva Medha-
and they went Mayuradhvaja's palace. The King
to tithi.
welcomed them respectfully. Sri Krsna, in his disguise This Medhatithi got two sons named Dusyanta and
as Brahmana told the King that he was coming from Pravira. It was this Dusyanta who married Sakuntala.
Dharmapurl to meet the King's priest, Krsna who was (Chapter 2 78, Agni Purana).
to officiate at the marriage of his (Brahmaiia's) son. He Medhatithi was a celebrated sage of Bharata. The
added that unfortunately on his way through a forest maharsi referred to in Sukta 12, Anuvaka 4, Mandala
a lion caught hold of his son. Although he prayed to 1 of Rgveda is Medhatithi son of Kanva. Once
Lord Narasirhha, the boy could not be rescued. The Indra coming in the form of a goat drank the soma of
v
lion told him that he would release his son, if the Medhatithi and the latter called him 'goat' (Mesa)
Brahmana persuaded Mayuradhvaja to offer one half of and thenceforth Indra got the name Mesa. (Sukta 51,
his bodyas food to the lion. Anuvaka 10, Mandala 1, Rgveda).
On hearing the Brahmana's story, Mayuradhvaja agreed We get the following details about Medhatithi from the
to give half of his body to the lion. Just then his queen Mahabharata.
Kumudvati appeared before them and said, "I am the (1 ) He was a King in the court
of Indra.
left half (Vamabhaga) of the King. You may take me Kanvamuni who was
(2) Medhatithi had a son named
and offer me as food for the lion." But the Brahmana popular on the east coast of Bharata. (Sloka 23,
replied that the lion wanted the right half of the King's Chapter 107, Santi Parva).
body. (3) Medhatithi observed Vanaprastha and attained
When the King heard this, he readily agreed to give the
Svarga. (Sloka 7, Chapter 336, Santi Parva) .
morning the nymph renewed her request and the sage frog and pushed it into that same pond.
said "Wait till I finish my evening prayers." Hearing Time passed on. Once Maya performed severe penance
this Sucismita said "Oh, best of brahmins, how many to please Siva to get a daughter and Siva persuaded
mornings and evenings have gone by this time Fiftyfive! Parvati to release Sulaksana from the curse and she did
years nine months and three days have gone by since we so turning her into a beautiful maiden named
started living together". The sage then counted the Mandodari and Siva gave her to Maya. Ravana married
years and found she was correct. The astounding fact her and their first son was Kanina.
that his penance had such a long break made the sage (ii) Ravani. Son of Ravana.
angry and he cursed her and made her into an evil (iii) Meghandda. (One having the sound of thunder).
spirit. She begged for pardon and the sage said "If you When he was born he made a sound as loud as thunder
observe with fasting the Caitrakrsnaikadas'I called and so he was called Meghanada.
Papamocim it will absolve you of all sins and give you (iv) Mayavl. He accepted Siva as his Guru and learned
release from the curse". (Chapter 48, Part 4, Padma all the divine arts of magic like Mrgendrajala, Brah-
Purana) .
mendrajala, Surendrajala, Mahendrajala Khagundra-
3)In Rgveda. The Ai'vinidevas once gave rice to this jala, Vayustambha, Jalastatnbha, Agnistambha, Akaga-
sage. (Sukta 117, Anuvaka 17, Mandala 1, Rgveda). sancara, Parakayapravesa, Rupabhedasvlkara and
MEDHAVI II. A
brahmin boy. This child once gave Tirodhana. Because he knew all these tricks he was
Tattvopadesa to his father. (The philosophy that the called Mayavl.
human soul or material world is identical with the (v) Indrajit. When Ravana attacked svarga he pushed
supreme spirit pervading the universe). Chapter 377, forward too much and so was caught inside an army
Sand Parva). of the Devas which surrounded him. When Meghanada
MEDHYA. A holy place on the west coast. A
river saw it he broke the army circle of the devas and getting
flows through this place. This sacred river is believed to in caught Indra as a prisoner and brought him to
be the place of origin of Agni. This is one of the rivers Lanka. Indra was later released by the mediation of
worthy to be remembered every morning and evening. Brahma and the latter gave him the name Indrajit
(Chapter 155, Anufasana Parva). meaning "Conqueror of Indra".
MEDINl. A synonym for Earth (Bhumi). (See under 2) Boons. When Ravana was conducting his world
Kaitabha for details). campaign he performed at Nikumbhila many yagas
MEGHAHASA. A son of Rahu. When he heard that and got from Brahma many boons. Meghanada
Mahavisnu had cut off the head of his father he went acquired powers which had not been possible for
to the banks of the river GautamI and practised severe manavas, danavas, vanaras or raksasas to acquire. He
penance. As a result of that Rahu, his father, got a got a Vimana (divine car) which could travel in all
place among the other planets in the sky. (Chapter 142, directions, backwards and forwards, up or down. He
Brahmanda Purana). received an armour against which no weapon would be
MEGHAKARl^A. 'A female follower of .Subrahmanya. of any use. He possessed a weapon which would be
(Sloka 30, Chapter 46, Salya Parva). effective against anything. Above all these, he had the
MEGHAMALA. A female follower of Subrahmanya. power to remain invisible. He could be killed by only
(Sloka 30, Chapter 46, Salya Parva). one person of his age who had lived for fourteen years
MEGHAMALl I. A demon who fought against Rama dutifully and virtuously without sleep. Only Indrajit
and Laksmana in the forests. He was one of the knew about this.
caflains of the army of the great demon Khara. The In a battle Mayavl would show many tricks. If one was
other captains were Syenagaml, Prthugriva, Yajnasatru, found ineffective he would use another. He had in his
Vihangama, Durjaya, Karavlraksa, Parigha, Kalaka- stock over a thousand such tricks all of which he had
mukha, Mahama.ll, Sarpasya and Rudhirasana. (Sarga acquired with very little effort. (Yuddha Kanda,
26, Aranya Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) . Kamba Ramayana).
MEGHAMALl II. One of the two parsadas given to MEGHANADA II. A soldier of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
Subrahmanya by Mahameru. The other was Kancana. 57, Chapter 44, Salya Parva).
(Sloka 47, 'Chapter 45, Salya Parva). MEGHAPUSPA. A horse of divinity drawing the chariot
MEGHANADA. Indrajit, son of Ravana. (Only of Sri Krsna. (Sloka 27, Chapter 45, Virata Parva)
portions which were left off under the entry Indrajit are MEGHASANDHI. A prince of ancient Magadha. Once
given here. Meghasandhi fought against Arjuna and was defeated.
1
) Synonyms of Meghandda. Kanina, Ravani, Mayavl, (Chapter 82, Asvamedha Parva) .
Indrajit. The origin of each name is given below: MEGHASARMAN. A brahmin who was a great devotee
(i) Kanina. Son of a virgin. In olden times, once, the of Surya. When there was a drought in the country
Sea of Milk was churned. From it arose a beautiful during the reign of Santanu this brahmin by his worship
MEGHASVANA 501 MEPPATTtJR NARAYAJVA BHATTATIRI
ofSurya brought rains to the country. (Bhavisya learned, virtuous girls and were Brahmavadinis
Purana, Pratisargasariihitii). (expounders of Vedanta philosophy). (Chapter 10,
MEGHASVANA. A female follower of Subrahmanya. ArriSa 1, Vismi Purana) .
of this place were called Mekhalas. They were the body- 3) Again with ViSvdmitra. Once again when ViSvamitra
guards of Bhisma. (Chapter 51, Bhlsma Parva). They was performing penance in Puskaratirtha, Menaka appro-
formed a separate division in the army of Brhannala, ached him and again Visvamitra fell in love with her and
King of Kosala. (Chapter 87, Bhlsma Parva). Once they lived together for ten years. Then one day ViSva-
Kama conquered this country. (Sloka 8, Chapter 4, mitra realised his folly and leaving her went again to
Drona Parva) Mekhalas were Ksatriyas formerly. But
. the forests for penance.
they became persons of low caste when they showed 4) Maiikana was enticed. See under Mankana
jealousy towards the brahmins. (Sloka 17, Chapter 35, 5) Other details,
AnuSasana Parva) .
(i) When once Durvasas visited Devaloka it was
MENA I. Wife of Himavan. Beautiful Mena was the Menaka who presented him with
a flower garland. This
daughter of Mahameru. incident led to the churning of the milk ocean at a
Himavan lord of the mountains and the seat of many later period. (See under Amrta) .
minerals and fossils had two daughters of unparallelled (ii) Menaka was one among the
six prominent celestial
beauty and their mother was the lovely Mena, daughter maidens. Urvasi, Purvacitti, Sahajanya, Menaka,
of Mahameru and wife of Himavan. (Sarga 35, Bala Ghrtaci and ViSvaci are the six. (Sloka 68, Chapter 74,
Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana) . Adi Parva) .
Ramayana states that Mena had two daughters of (iii) Menaka attended the Janmotsava of Arjuna and
extraordinary beauty named Ganga and Uma. They sang on the occasion. (Sloka 64, Chapter 122, Adi
were both married by Siva. Parva ) .
But Vamana Purana in chapter 51 states that Mena (iv) Menaka was a dancer in the court ofKubera
had three beautiful daughters and a son named (Sloka 10, Chapter 10, Sabha Parva).
Sunabha. Mena's first daughter was Ragim with (v) Menaka once gave a music performance in the
red body and eyes and wearing a red diess. Her court of Indra in honour of Arjuna. (Sloka 29,
second daughter named Kutila was white in colour, Chapter 43, Vana Parva).
had lotus eyes, and wore white dress. The third was MENDA (MENDHA). A Sanskrit poet who lived in
a girl of enchanting beauty named Kali. She was the 5th century A.D. Among his works only one is
blue-black in colour with eyes like the blue lotus leaf. known viz. Hayagrivavadha (the assassination of Haya-
It can be surmised that the Uma of Ramayana and grlva) . This book is known by another name "Hasti-
Kali were one and the same person by the following paka".
verse in the Amarakosa. MEPPATTOR NARAYAIVA BHATTATIRI. A Sans-
Uma Katyayani Gauri krit poet who lived in Kerala.
Kali HaimavatKvari // 1) General information It is believed that this poet
When statements of the two Puranas are taken
the lived during the period from 1560 to 1648 A.D. He was
together Mena should have had four daughters, born in the village of Kurumattur in Malabar district
Ganga, Ragim, Kutila and Kali and a son named The illam (house of nambutiris) which became famous
Sunabha. by hisbirth was a mile to the east of the Bhagavati
MENA II. Daughter of the Pitrs (Manes). Pitrs are of temple, Candanakkavu, which itself is situated just
two kinds Anagnis and Sagnis. Anagnis are those who
:
two furlongs to the north of the well known Tirunavaya
do not perform yagas and those who perform yagas temple. Meppattur illam became impoverished and was
are called Sagnis. Anagnis are called Agnisvattas and merged with another illam of name Maravanceri
Sagnis are called Barhisadas. Svadha. was the Tekketattu.
common wife of all the Pitrs. Svadha got two daught- Narayana Bhattatiri had a brother named Matrdatta.
ers, Mena and Dharinl. They were both very well- He was younger to Narayana and his work was to take
MERUBHOTA 502 MITHI (MITHI JANAKA)
down the verses which Narayana composed. Meppattur with half of the latter as adhama. (Chapter 210, Agni
(Narayana is more well-known under the name of his Purana) .
studied Veda under Madhavacarya and Tarka under Ugradarhstrl, Lata, Ramya, Syama, Nan, Bhadrii and
Damodaracarya. Acyuta Pisaroti taught him Vyakarana. Devavithl. They were married to Niibhi, Kimpurusa,
The poet became a rheumatic patient in his old age Hari, Ilavrta, Ramyaka, Hiranmaya, Kuru, Bhadraiva
and he stayed in the Guruvftyur temple worshipping and Ketumala respectively. All these nine Kings were
the deity there. His famous work Narayaniyam was born to a King Agnidhra of the nymph Purvacitti.
written sitting in the temple of Guruvayur and the (Pancama Skandha, Bhiigavata) .
mandapa (raised dais) where he sat and wrote is even MERUMANDARA. A mountain. This supports Maha-
now preserved for pilgrims to see. He took hundred meru. The mountains which support it from the four
days to write the Narayaniyam. sides are Mandara, Merumandara, Suparsva and
2) His works. It is not yet known how many books Kumuda. (5th Skandha, Bhagavata).
Meppattur had written but the following have been MERUPRABHA. A forest. There were three beautiful
recognised as definitely written by him (1) Nara- : forests about the waist of the mountain Latavesta,
yaniyam (2) Sripadasaptati (3) Guruvayupuresastotram situated to the south of Dvarakilpuri. Meruprabha is
(4) Go:'rlnagaravarnanam (5) Matamahisaprasasti (6) one of them. The other two are Talavana and Puspaka-
Sailabdhisvaraprasasti Suktaslokas (8) Asvalayana-
(7) vana. (Chapter 26, Sabha Parva, Daksinatya Patha).
kriyakrama (9) Prakriyasarvasvam (10) Dhatukavyam MERUSAVARNI. A Manu. (See under Manvantara) .
(11) Apaniniyapramanyasadhanam (12) Manapariccheda The daughter of this Merusavarni named Svayamprabha
of Manameyodaya (13) Tantravarttikanibandhana (14) was met by Hanuman on his way in search of Slta.
Rajasuyam (15) Dutavakyam (16) Pancallsvayarh- (Sarga 51, Kiskindha kanda, Valmlki Ramayana) .
varam (17) Nalayanicaritam (18) Sundopasundopa- MERUVRAJA. A city of ancient India. demon A named
khyanam (19) Subhadraharanam (20) Kaunteyastakam Virupaksa lived there. (Sloka 19, Chapter 17, Santi
(21) Kiratam (22) Kailasavarnanam (23) Matsyava- Parva )
.
taram (24) Nrgamoksam (25) Niranunasika or Surpa- MESA I. A synonym for Indra. Once Indra taking the
nakhapralapa (26) Raksasotpatti (27) Ahalyamoksa shape of a goat went and drank the Soma of the sage
(28) Balakanda story (29) Daksayajna (30) Tripura- Medhatithi. Then that sage called Indra 'goat' (mesa)
dahana ( 3 1 ) Astamicampu (32) Svahasudhakaram (33) and that name of Mesa stuck to him. (Sukta 51,
Kotiviraham. Anuvaka 10, Mandala 11, Rgveda).
MERUBHOTA. A place of habitation of ancient MESA II. A soldier of Subrahmanya. (loka 64,
Bharata. (Sloka 48, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva). Chapter 45, Salya Parva) .
MERUDANA. Merudanas (gifts of heaps like Meru) MESAHRT. A son of Garuda. (Sloka 12. Chapter 101,
are very effective and productive of good results.
all Salya Parva) .
The Merus for the danas are the following : MISRAKA I. A special tribe of horses. (Daksinatya
1 )
Dhanyameru. A dhanyameru or a thousand dronas Patha, Chapter 38, Sabha Parva) .
9) Sarkardmeru. One with eight bharas of sugar is sixth chapter of Devi Bhagavata gives the following
deemed Uttama ;
with half of that as madhyama and story about the birth of Mithi.
MITHILA 503 MITRADEVA
There was once an emperor of great renown in the line culture was given importance, so much so that the
of Iksvaku named Nimi. He was the twelfth son of the royal emblem was the figure of a plough. Rains
itself
celebrated Iksvaku and was devoted to the welfare of were there in season and in plenty because of the yagas
his subjects. He was a very honest, virtuous, righteous conducted properly by the King. (Balakanda, Kamba
and good-natured man of a charitable disposition. The Ra.ma.yana).
agrahara (village where brahmins reside) named 3) Other' details.
Nimi. Nimi was asleep then and the servants in the (vii) Suka the great sage, with the permission of his
palace hesitated to go and inform him of the arrival of father Vyasa came to Mithila and took Dharmopadesa
the sage. Vasistha got angry and cursed him and made from King Janaka. (Sloka 6, Chapter 325. Sand
him Videha (without body). At once the body of the Parva ) .
King fell to the ground and the soul got out of it. But MITHU. A very valorous danava. Once Bharata son of
before the soul separated from the body Nimi cursed Arstisena was making preparations for an ASvamedha
Vasistha also and separated his soul from his body. on the banks of the river Sarasvati with Upamanyu as
Vasistha was again born as the son of Mitravarunas. his priest when Mithu came and took them both to
The other sages present there took the lifeless body of Patala. Then Devapi, son of Upamanyu, got his father
Nimi and after sacrificial ceremonies and worship of and the King released from there by continuous worship
gods started to churn the body. After some time a mighty of Siva (Brahma Purana 127. 56-57).
and perfect man of great brilliance was born out of it. MITRA.
Because he was born by Mathana (churning) he was 1
) General information. One of the twelve Suryas. The
named Mithi. Because he was born from his father twelve born to Aditi of Kagyapaprajapati are
Suryas
(Janaka) he was called Mithijanaka and because he was Visnu, Sakra, Aryama, Dhata, Tvasta, Pusa, Vivasvan,
born of Nimi, a Videha, he was called Videha also. Savita, Mitra, Varuna, Bhaga and AiiiSa. (Chapter 15,
The country which was ruled by Mithi got the name ArriSa 1, Visnu Purana).
of Mithila. It is the country of Sita. Mitravarunas are two devatas of great intimacy. They
MITHILA. are always found together. If you pray to Mitravarunas
1
) General information. A celebrated country of ancient you will get plenty of rains. (Sukta 2, Anuvaka 1,
Bharata. This is situated on the north-eastern side of Mandala 1 Rgveda) ,
.
Bharata. Its modern name is Tirhut. Mithila was ruled See para 2 under Agastya to understand the story of
by the renowned Janaka Kings. See under Mithi to how Mitravarunas became the father of Agastya.
know how the country got the name Mithila. 2) Other details'.
2) The wealth of Mithila. Mithila was the capital of the (i) Mitra came and stood in the sky at the time of the
extensive country of Videha. Successive generations of birth of Arjuna. (Sloka 66, Chapter 122, Adi Parva).
Janaka ruled the country. Mithila was noted more for (ii) Mitra was one among those sent by Indra to fight
its sattvic virtues than for the
pomp and glory of kings. against Krsna and Arjuna at the time of the burning
Everyday on the protruding breasts of an idol of of the forest Khandava. (Sloka 36, Chapter 226 Adi
Rajasa-rajalaksmi (embodiment of royal prosperity) Parva) .
MITRAGHNA. A demon who fought on the side of diamonds as tax. (Sloka 25, Chapter 30, Sabha Parva) .
MITRASENA. A King who fought on the side of the (7) Different tribes of mlecchas will be born
on earth
Kauravas in the great battle. Arjuna killed him. (Sloka at the beginning of the era of Pralaya. (Sloka 34,
20, Chapter 19, Karna Parva). Chapter 188, Vana Parva).
MITRAVAN I. Son of the Agni named Pancajanya. (8) Kalki, the incarnation
of Visnu, will destroy the
He was one of the Pincadevavinayakas. (Sloka 12, mlecchas who are found everywhere in the world.
Chapter 220, Vana Parva) . (Sloka 97 Chapter 190, Vana Parva).
MITRAVAN II. An ascetic who lived in the city of (9) Karna during his world campaign conquered many
Saupura. He
acquired complete peace of mind by mleccha countries. (Sloka 19, Chapter 254, Vana
reading the second Chapter of the Gita sitting in a Siva Parva).
temple. Once a brahmin of name Devasarma approach- (10) A place of habitation in Bharata is called
ed a sage named Muktakarma seeking advice to obtain Mleccha. (Sloka 57, Chapter 9. Bhisma Parva).
(11) Anga, a mleccha
warrior was killed in the battle
peace of mind. The latter directed Devasarma to Mitra-
van andMitravan advised him to read the second Chap- by Bhimasena. (Sloka 17, Chapter 26, Drona Parva).
ter of the Gita. (Padma Purana, Uttara Khanda, 176). (12) Once the mlecchas attacked Arjuna
with arrows.
MITRA VARDHANA. Son of the Agni called' Panca- Arjuna killed the hairy soldiers. (Sloka 43, Chapter 93,
janya. He was one of the Pancadevavinayakas. (Sloka Drona Parva) .
12, Chapter 220, Vana Parva) . (13) Satyaki killed many mleccha soldiers in the great
MITRAVARMAN. Brother of Susanna, King of Trigarta. war. (Sloka 43, Chapter 119, Drona Parva).
Arjuna killed him in the great battle. (Sloka 3, (14) Nakula killed Ariga, a mleccha King. (Sloka 18,
Chapter 27, Karna Parva). Chapter 22, Karna Parva) ,
(15) Arjuna had to face a great army of mlecchas
to
MITRAVARUNA(S). The combined name of two of Asvamedha
the Dvadasadityas (twelve Suryas) Mitra and Varuna. protect the Yagasva. (Sloka 23, Chapter 73,
These two are always seen together. Agastya and Parva).
in the Yagalala of
Vasistha were born as sons of Mitravaruna. It was due (16) The wealth that remained
to a curse by Mitravarunas that Urvaii had to marry Yudhisthira after the distribution as gifts to brahmins
King Pururavas, a man of the earth. Manu had no was taken away by the mlecchas. (Sloka 26, Chapter
children and he performed a yaga to placate Mitra- 89,Asvamedha Parva).
varunas. But since there were many faults in the (17)The mlecchas drove angered elephants on to the
ceremony a girl was born to him. (For details see under army of the Pandavas. (Sloka 10, Chapter 22, Karna
Ila, Nimi, Urvasi, Vasistha and Mitra). Parva) .
MITRAVINDA. A deva. The havis (clarified butter MOD A A demon who was a companion of Hiranyaksa.
I.
Anuvinda and Mitravinda. In the Svayamvara Mitra- MODAGIRI. A country of ancient Bharata. The King
vinda chose Krsna as her husband. Vinda and of this countrywas killed by Bhimasena. (Sloka 31,
Anuvinda did not like it and joining the Kaurava side Chapter 30, Sabha Parva) .
fought against Krsna. But Krsna defeated them all and MODAKl. Avast area of land in Sakadvipa near the
took Mitravinda to Dvaraka. ( 10th Skandha, Bhaga- mountain Kesara. (Sloka 26, Chapter 11, Bhisma
vata). Parva) .
flying in
.
(
MOHANA 505
MRTASAJNIVANI
M HANA. An ancient place of habitation in Bharata
gates of Mahabali. He said he would be released from
Vana pZ^"*""*
by ^"^
(Sl ka 10 Cha P te; > the curse when
any man on earth defeated it. Once a
Wife of Sugrlva. Mohana brahmin warrior named Srldatta defeated this lion
and
helped her hus- at once the lion
in
bringing water from the Sarayu river to bathe changed into a Yaksa and the Yaksa
" f SriRama presented Srldatta with the sword named
' Mrgankaka.
Parana, (Kathapithalambaka, Kathasaritsagara)
MOHINI. The female form of Mahavisnu. Devas MRGA&KAVATI. Daughter of an ancient King called
Asuras quarrelled with each other
and Sri Bimbaki. (See under
over the right of Srldatta)
partaking the Amrta (nectar) obtained from the sea of
MRGAS (DEER). All the animals originated from
At that time Mahavisnu Kasyapaprajapati. Kasyapaprajapati, son of Marlci
m the gu.se of a beautiful maiden
appeared before them
of maddening charm
married the eight daughters of Daksa named Tamra
etc!
the asur a s were From Tamra were born birds. Kroclhavasa
guilefully made to turn their gave birth
temion on her for some time to ten girls named
MrgI, Mrgamanda, Harl, Bhadra-
nectar was earned during which time the mada, Matarigl, Sardull, Sveta, Surabhi, Surasa and
away by the Devas. The female form KadrQ. Mrgas (deer) are the children of
of Mahavisnu was called
MohinI MrgI. (Val-
adl Iovewith Mohim and
'
the union of by the
miki Ramayana, Aranya Kanda.
Sarga 4)
MRGASVAPNODBHAVAPARVA. A subsidiary Parva
of the Vana Parva of Mahabharata.
Chapter 253 of
Vana Parva constitutes this
Parva
divisions of the MRGAVATl.
e seven . See under Udayana
dlv isions are Yavasa
Siva, MRGAVYADHA. The disguise Siva took when he
Amrta and Abhkya -
went to test the devotion of Paras urama. Paras
urama
once went to the forests and did
means liberation and is penance to
please Siva
to learn
neant to generally archery from him. the form of a Siva in
convey the meaning of the deliverance of the
rec " rr n
Mrgavyadha (forest hunter) appeared before Parasu-
tl^ h 7"l !
,g
births The Jivatma enshrined in -
rama and tested his sincerity in his
aody has the delusion that it enjoys or suffers penance in several
ness or woe In truth it happi- ways. Siva was pleased to find Parasurama's devotion
neither suffers nor to Siva
aC enjoys anythSS unwavering and blessed him. He gave instruct-
b ahmani). WhWhen Jivatma ?"'
Ic s the
j 'T
deserts its woes it
gets moksa
**~?SJB2 ions in archery and also
permitted him to go round the
earth. (Chapter 65, Brahmanda
V tma CtS me Purana)
- rged with Para matma. When once
. MRGAVYADHA II. One of the Ekada* arudras
Tiv'at (eleven
merges with Paramatma, Jivatma is devoid
lappmess or woes. It need not be enshrined in
Rudras). (Sloka 2,Chapter 66, Adi Parva).
any MRGI. The mother of all types of deer. (See under
geUing released fr m one body joins
another
er ^'T
new body and thus a Jivatma in succession
Mrgas)
MRKAiyDU.
.
__
und
i t
his
.
tj
s a guiucii nccK-
neck searches for the same
.
*
MRTAM. See under Pramrtam.
"
The passage of Jivatma from one elsewhere MRTASANJIVANI. This 'is a medicinal herb to give
birth to another and to those who are dead.
Dodies that enshrine it each
life When in the Rama-Ravana
time constitute th f battle Laksmana and others
worldly life. When once a JIvatmT thu"
fell dead, Sri Rania
H 1 wanted to be
8
(mundane existence) gets real Mrtasanjlvanl brought to revive them
he !^!?^
Ihe knoJkdie, back to life. Jambavan the oldest the
knowledge that Jivatma and Paramatma are one monkey- among
ana tne samp thpnl fVi^*- iiidc TTT,^*~- r-
warriors then instructed Hanuman
from the to get it
> ffets nnal
iiVtitina o Icl4 pman/^Ji-'j mountain Mahameru explaining
tipjn
Jll > ll-\ f *." *--m<*i.lCJL)ti~ the way to to him
>
eration from rpmrrinn- births I
reach there. He said "If
you go a hundred yojanas
:
M HAR MAPARVA. (1200 Kilometres) from here to the north you would
Sntf P '
sub-divisional Parva of
1 74 to
reach Ramesvara the southernmost
point of Bharata.
From there if you go to the north another thousand
365 of
yojanas you would reach the Himalayas which is the
northern-most point of Bharata. Himavan is thousand
and wor ^ips Mahadeva one yojanas high, two thousand yojanas wide and is
the hfi
ofconducting an Asvamedhayajna. long enough to reach the two oceans on the east and
Jl, Ph
s oka 101 the west.
Chapter 83, Vana Parva) .
r of Kasyapa.
On that mountain is the
marriage-dais of Parvati and
(See under Paramesvara and you will find places where Parames-
vara had sat for practising penances. On the northern
-
'
a Yaksa side under a big Kuvala tree lies Kamadhenu.
h
ing him a l, on posted This
it to guard the palace- cow gives milk to the sages and tourists who
go there.
8 human body impaning to h iife> moti n an
circuit of life
consisting of births and rebirths with sufferings and enjoyments of woes and happiness.
MRTTIKAVATl 506 MUCUKUNDA
Nine thousand yojanas to the north of this there are Naraka, Maya and Vedana. Of these Maya gave
two mountains named Hemakuta and Ratnakuta. The birth to Mrtyu, the destroyer of matter.
centre of that is Rsabhavarsa. On a big Karaskara Mrtyu has been described both as a god and goddess
tree there will be hanging a king with his face down- in Mahabharata. The statements regarding Mrtyu as
wards after being cursed by the sage Durvasas. He a deva are as follows :
will be released from the curse by you. If one eats the (i) Three sons were born to Nikrti, wife of Adharma.
fruits of this tree one will be free from greying of hairs One of them was Mrtyu. Mrtyudeva has neither wife
and rugosity. nor children because he is the destroyer of all. ( Sloka
If you go farther north from Hemakuta you will reach 54, Chapter 66, Adi Parva).
the mountain Nisadha. There is a lake there. If one (ii) Once the son of an old GautamI was bitten by a
bathes there one will be granted all prosperity by snake. A hunter seeing it rushed to kill the serpent
LaksmldevJ. Farther to the north is situated Mahameru. but GautamI objected to it. She advised him that it
The greatness of this mountain is indescribable. was a sin to injure any living being. The serpent then
Mahameru has got four supporting mountain pillars said, "Itisnotrhy fault that I bit the boy. I was
named Mandara, Merumandara, Suparsva and persuaded by the god of death to do so." The god of
Kumuda. The abode of the three deities is on the top death Mrtyudeva also appeared there then. He con-
of this mountain. On a peak in the centre is living firmed the snake's statement and added that God had
Brahma with his wives Van!, Gayatri and Savitri as programmed all events beforehand and the boy's
creator of the universe. This place is called Satyaloka death was not due to any mistake on anybody's part.
and to the west of it is Sri Vaikuntha the abode of (Sloka 50, Chapter Anu^asana Parva)
1,
Mahavisnu. MadevI and Bhudevi are his two wives. (iii) Once Mrtyu followed
the King SudarSana, but
He is the god who protects us all. To the east of Mrtyudeva had to withdraw after accepting defeat
Satyaloka is Kailasa, the abode of Siva. He lives there because the King had been living a virtuous life of high
with his wives Gariga and Parvati and sons Ganesa standard. (See under Sudarsana).
and Subrahmanya. To the south of Satyaloka is the The statements regarding Mrtyu as a goddess are the
city SamyamanI the abode of Yamadharmaraja. He following :
lives there with his wife Kalini and sons Vidava, (1) This devata was born from the body of Brahma
Mahima and Dipaka. To the east of this is the wonder- in the shape of a woman. (Sloka 17, Chapter 53,
ful Devaloka. There lives Indra, his wife Sacidevi and Drona Parva).
son Jayanta with thirtythree crores of Devas. Celestial (2) Brahma gave the work of destruction to Mrtyu.
nymphs like Urvasi, Rambha and Tilottama live there. When she got that work she wept aloud. (Sloka 21.
Kamadhenu, the Kalpa tree, Airavata, UccaisSravas, Chapter 257, Santi Parva) .
and Cintamani are all there. You will find Amaravatl . (3) The goddess of Mrtyu once did severe penance.
the Capital of Indra and Sudharma his court there. (Sloka 17, Chapter 54J Drona Parva).
On the northern side of Meru is a tall Af'va'ttha tree. (4) Brahma
assured the goddess of death that any
To the north of that is the Nila-mahagiri ( the great destruction by her would not be deemed as a sin.
blue mountain). Kalyapa has installed a deity named (Sloka 44, Chapter 54, Drona Parva).
Svetavarahamurti there. Beyond that is the Rsabhadri (5) The terrible strength of Mrtyudevata is described
It is believed that a divine ox in Chapter 819, Santi Parva, Mahabharata.
( ox-shaped mountain) .
became a mountain there. Its two horns are like two MUCUKUNDA. A celebrated King of the Solar
peaks. This mountain contains many divine medicines dynasty.
of which Salyaharam, Visalyakaranf, Sandhanakaram
Descending in order from Visnu
1) Genealogy.
and Mrtasanjivani are the most important. Brahma Marlci Kasyapa Vivasvan Vaivasvata
Once the asuras defeated the Devas. Then ParameS- Manu Iksvaku Sasada Puranjaya (Kakutstha)
-
vara and Mahavisnu gave the Devas these four Anenas Prthulasva --Prasenajit Yuvana:'va
medicinal herbs. They planted them here and watered Mandhata Mucukunda.
them from the Milk-sea. Around these precious plants Ma.ndha.ta got three sons named Ambarlsa, Mucu-
stand guard the parsadas of Siva and the Discus kunda and Purukutsa and daughters and
fifty all the
Sudarsana of Visnu." (Yuddha Kanda, Kamba fifty were married to a sage named Saubhari.
Ramayana ) .
2) How Mucukunda attained salvation. (For the story
There isanother statement in the' Mahabharata that see para 72, under Indra) .
(iv) Once Mucukunda just to try the might of The first mudra is called Anjalimudra. Anjali means a
Kubera attacked him. The demons sent by Kubera cavity formed by folding the hands and joining the
defeated him. He then meditated on Vasistha and he open hands together. If the hands thus folded are placed
was able to defeat the army of asuras of Kubera. on the breast it becomes a Vandini mudra. The hands
(Sloka 4, Chapter 74, Sand Parva) . should be placed on the breast with a slight slant to
(v) Once Parasurama gave dharmopade:'a (Instruct- the left for Vandini mudra. The third mudra is called
ion on morality, piety etc) to Mucukunda. (Sloka 7, Urddhva mudra. Hold the left hand first in such a
Chapter 143, Sand Parva). way that the thumb comes on the top and then with
(vi) Once the King of Kamboja gave him a sword the fingers of the right hand bind the thumb of the
and he gave that sword to Marutta. (Sloka 77, lefthand. The thumb of the right hand should also
Chapter 166, Sand Parva). come to the top. This is called Urddhva mudra. The
(vii) He believed in making gifts of cows (Sloka 25, lowering of the left palm opened up is called Varaha-
Chapter 76, Anusasana Parva). mudra. (Chapter 26, Agni Purana).
(viii) Mucukunda hated eating flesh. (Sloka 61, MUKA I. A serpent born of the family of Taksaka.
Chapter 115, Anugasana Parva). This serpent was burnt to death at the Sarpasatra of
(ix) Mucukunda is listed among those kings who are Janamejaya. (Sloka 9, Chapter 5, Adi Parva).
worthy of being remembered morning and evening. MUKA II. An asura. This demon once went to
(Sloka 54, Chapter 165, Anusasana Parva). Arjuna who was engaged in penance in the forests. He
MUDAVARTA. A King born in the line of Hehaya had assumed the form of a boar and Arjuna killed
kings. (Sloka 13, Chapter 74, Udyoga Parva). him. At once Siva appeared there in the guise of a
MUDGALA I. A country of ancient Bharata. This forester and contended that the boar was killed by him.
country was once conquered by Sri Krsna. (Sloka 16, A quarrel ensued which ended in a fight between
Chapter 11, Drona Parva). them. In the end Siva appeared before Arjuna in his
MUDGALA II. A serpent born of the family of real form and granted him the missile Pasupata. (See
Taksaka. This serpent was burnt to death at the under Arjuna).
Sarpasatra of Janamejaya. (Sloka 10, Chapter 57, MUKA III. A Candala devoted much to his parents.
Adi Parva). A Brahmana named Narottama went to this candala
MUDGALA III. (MAUDGALYA). A sage of Puranic to learn moral lessons from him. (Srstikharida,
fame. Padma Purana).
1
) Mudgala and Dundsas. Mudgala had never been MUKHAKAR^I. A follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka
provoked even once by anger. Durvasas once came to 29, Chapter 46, Salya Parva).
the asrama of Mudgala in Kuruksetra where he was MUKHAMAI^pIKA. One of the evil spirits tormenting
living on alms received by begging. Durvasas came infants. This is called Did also. (Sloka 30, Chapter 23,
naked. Mudgala gave all that he got that day to Vana Parva ) .
Durvasas. The latter ate to his heart's content and MUKHARA. A serpent of the family of KaSyapa.
smeared on his. naked body what remained after his (Sloka 16, Chapter 103, Udyoga Parva).
meal. Mudgala never got angry. This continued for MUKHASECAKA. A serpent born of the family of
days together and not for once did Mudgala get angry. Dhrtarastra. This serpent was burnt to death at the
Durvasas was immensely pleased with this behaviour Sarpasatra of Janamejaya. (Adi Parva, Chapter 47,
of Mudgala and he offered to send him to heaven with Sloka 16).
his body. Devas came with a Vimana at once. MUKTAPHALAKETU. A Vidyadhara youth. The
Mudgala after enquiring about the conveniences and story of this young man who was born to kill Vidyud-
luxuries of heaven refused to go. (Chapter 261, Vana dhvaja, a fire-brand of an asura, is told thus in Katha-
Parva ) .
saritsagara.
2 ) Other details. An eminent asura of name Vidyutprabha performed
(i) Mudgala, who was well versed in the Vedas, was penance to propitiate Brahma to get a son. As a
a priest in the Sarpasatra of Janamejaya. ( Sloka 9, result of the blessings of Brahma he got a son invincible
Chapter 53, Adi Parva). to the Devas. He was named Vidyuddhvaja. Even
(ii) Mudgala visited Bhisma lying on his bed of from boyhood he was very brave and daring. Once
arrows. (Sloka 9, Chapter 47, Adi Parva). when he saw some demons standing guard to protect
(iii) Once Satadyumna gave Mudgala a golden the asura family he said "At present our country is
house. (Sloka 21, Chapter 137, Anu.'asana Parva). being protected by the hands of others. I shall, there-
( iv) Once the King of Cola conducted a Yaga making fore, perform penance and obtain boons to remove
MUKTAPHALAKETU 508 MUKTAPHALAKETU
dhvaja went straight to the forests and performed penance the boons which Vidyuddhvaja had received from Siva
to propitiate Brahma. When
the austerities became and how he was ruling Indraloka then. After hearing
severe, Vidyuddhvaja observed fasting without break them patiently Visnu said that only Siva could do
and the whole world became excited due to anxiety. anything in that matter. They all then went to the
So Brahma appeared before him in person and gave temple of Siddhlgvara and sat there meditating on
him many divine weapons like Brahmastra. For Siva.
Brahmustra the only counter-missile was Pasupata In the meantime Bhagavan appeared before Candraketu
and so Brahmfi warned him that it should be used and blessed him and said he would get a very valorous
only when it was found absolutely necessary. son who would kill Vidyuddhvaja and restore Devaloka
Vidyuddhvaja became arrogant with the possession of to the devas. But after that he would be born as a man
such divine weapons and started for Indraloka with on earth by a curse. Padmavati daughter of a
his father and his army to conquer Indra. He knew Gandharva King, would by the strength of her penance
that Indra was ready to face him with a big army release him from the curse and help him to get his
headed by Candraketu and Padmasekhara. original state as a Gandharva. He would then marry
The battle that ensued was very grim. Even Brahma Padmavati and remain as emperor of the Vidyadharas
and Rudra came to see the fight. In a combat with for ten Kalpas together. Candaraketu and wife came
Indra, Vidyutprabha was killed. Vidyuddhvaja saw back to Vayuloka.
his father killed, got furious and sent Brahmastra At this time Siva appeared in person to those sitting
against Indra who in turn opposed it with Pasupata. in the temple of Siddhiivara and said that a son would
Vidyuddhvaja fainted. Devas sounded the trumpets of be born to Candraketu from a part of his and that
victory and left the place. valorous youth would kill Vidyuddhvaja. Muktavali
After some time Vidyuddhvaja awoke from the swoon wife of Candraketu became pregnant at that time and
and lamented thus to those of his men who were soon delivered a son. He was named Muktaphalaketu.
around: "My tapobala (strength resulting from Even from boyhood he became an ardent devotee of
penance) was of no use. I have decided to die
righting Siva and started performing penance to propitiate
against Indra. I do not want to return to a country Siva. Siva appeared before him and gave him the
where my father is not alive. On hearing this his aged secrets of many techniques in archery.
minister pointed out to him his mistake in having Vidyuddhvaja was once bathing in a river when muddy
used the Brahmastra untimely. waters flowed from up the river and the arrogant
Vidyuddhvaja decided to attain more powers and so demon sent a servant to find out the cause thereof.
he went to the base of the Himalayas to perform When he went up by the shores he saw an ox and an
penance to propitiate Siva. Pleased at his penance of elephant bathing in the river. They were the Vahanas
five thousand years Siva appeared in person and asked of Siva and Indra. The elephant was the famous
him to name the boon he wanted. Vidyuddhvaja Airavata. He came back and intimated to Vidyuddhvaja
'demanded "I must be able to kill Indra in a battle." what he saw. The demon then ordered his people to
Siva granted him the boon. bring the culprits to his side. But the Vahanas killed
Vidyuddhvaja once again attacked Indra with a huge those who went to capture them and then they went
army. In the fierce battle that followed Indra fell to their masters, Siva and Indra. Hearing about this
down fainting by the weapons of Vidyuddhvaja. At audacity of the demon-chief the Devas challenged the
once a voice from the air commanded, "Take away asuras to a fight. This time the army of the devas was
Indra from the battlefield. It is dangerous to keep led by Muktaphalaketu.
"
him there Vayu came and carried him away swiftly. A Gandharva princesss named Padmavati grew up to
When Indra awoke from fainting he went to be a beautiful maiden at that time. She was in love
Brahmaloka with all the other devas. with Muktaphalaketu. Padmavati was one day plucking
Vidyuddhvaja established himself in Amaravati, the flowers from a pond in the Gandharva land thinking
capital city of Indra and lived there enjoying his life about Muktaphalaketu who had gone to war against
as Indra. In the meantime Candraketu, King of the the asuras. A demoness who was going to eat flesh in the
Vidyadharas was sitting in Vayuloka musing thus, "How battle-field of the devas and asuras saw Padmavati, took
long should we remain thus displaced from our her and went up. Muktaphalaketu coming to know of
positions There is no waning of the power of Vidyud-
! this went up with her and got back Padmavati who was
dhvaja. My friend Padmat'ekhara, King of Gandhar- struggling in the hands of the demoness like streaks of
vas, has gone to Sivapura to perform penance. I do lightning among clouds. Then he asked her maids about
not know whether he has been blessed by god. Anyhow her and they said, "She is the daughter of the Gandharva
I will act after hearing from him." King Padmagekhara. Padmavati is her name. She is
As his musings came to an end Padmai'ekhara himself unmarried. But she is betrothed to the son of Candra-
appeared before him and said: "I have come to tell you ketu named Muktaphalaketu, who is born to destroy
the glad news that Siva told me. Siva said "Son, do Vidyuddhvaja. She has come here to practise
not grieve. You will get your country back. You will penance for the success of her father and Muktaphala-
get a son and a daughter. They will be top-ranking ketu in this war between devas and asuras."
men in all activities. The husband of your daughter Padmavati recognised Muktaphalaketu from the words
will kill
Vidyuddhvaja." of his followers. But the latter had to go back to Deva-
A happyCandraketu went to Kailasa with his wife loka under instructions from Indra. The Devasura war be-
Muktavali and started penance. Padmasekhara went came fierce. By the valour and skill of Muktaphalaketu
and mentioned to the devas all that had happened. many of the asuras were killed. The war was won.
The devas then went to Mahavisnu and told him of Muktaphalaketu was given a grand reception at devaloka
MUKULA 509 MUNNU (THREE)
and was then sent back. Muktaphalaketu did not seem Gandharvas of which the first was named Bhimasena.
to be happy and everybody thought that it might be (Sloka 42, Chapter 65, Adi Parva) .
due to his having killed Vidyuddhvaja. But the real MUNI II. Son of a Vasu named Ahar (i.e. Ahah)
cause was his separation from Padmavatl. (Sloka 23, Chapter 66, Adi Parva).
A sorrow-stricken Padmavatl sent her female companion MUNI III. Son of Kuru of the Puru line of kings.
Manoharika to the country of Vidyadharas to enquire Kuru begot of his wife VahinI five sons named A$va-
about Muktaphalaketu. What she saw there was a sad van, Abhisyanta, Caitraratha, Janamejaya and Muni.
Muktaphalaketu pining to see Padmavatl. Both now (Sloka 50,' Chapter 94, Adi Parva) .
understood each other and Manoharika returned with MUNI IV. One of the seven sons of a King named
presents for Padmavatl from Muktaphalaketu. Dyutiman. ( Markandeya Purana 5. 24).
At that time Muktaphalaketu went to see a Maharsi MUNIDESA. A country in the island of Kraunca.
named Tapodhana. Disregarding the objections of (Sloka 22, Chapter 12, Bhlsma Parva).
the disciple Drdhavrata who stood guard outside the MUNIVIRYA. One of the eternal VisveDevas.
asrama Muktaphalaketu entered the asrama with his (Sloka 31, Chapter 91, Anusasana Parva).
friend. Drdhavrata followed them. When they entered MUlsIJA An ancient sage of Bharata. This sage respect-
the asrama they found the asrama empty and at once ed Yudhisfhira very much. (Sloka 23, Chapter 26,
Drdhavrata cursed them both to be born on earth as Vana Parva) .
men. Padmavatl fainted when she heard the news. MUNJAKESA. A Ksatriya King of ancient Bharata.
When she regained her consciousness she started He was the re-birth of an asura called Nicandra.
practising austerities sitting in a temple devoted to (Sloka 21, Chapter 67, Adi Parva). The Pandavas had
Gauri, wife of Siva. She meditated on her husband sent an invitation to this King to participate in the
Muktaphalaketu in his life on earth and performed great battle. (Sloka 14, Chapter 4, Udyoga Parva).
penance to propitate Siva. By the grace of Siva MUNJAKETU. A Ksatriya King of ancient Bharata.
Muktaphalaketu got his original life and he married He was a member of the court of Yudhisthira. (Sloka
Padmavatl and led a happy married life. (Taranga 2, 21, Chapter 4, Sabha Parva).
Padmavatilambaka, Kathasaritsagara. ) MUNJAPRSTHA. A place on a mount in the
MUKULA. A King of the dynasty of Puru. Mukula, Himalayas. Rudra once practised penance sitting on
this mount. (Sloka 4, Chapter 122, Sand Parva)
Srnjaya, Brhadisu, Yavlnara and Krmila were the sons
.
of King Bahyaiva. All these five are known as Pancalas. MUNJAVAN. A mountain. This is in the range of
Of these the family of Mukula comprised of Maukulyas. the Himalayas. Paramasiva performs his frequent
Mukula got a son named Pancasva. (Chapter 201, penances at this place. Siva freely rambles for
Agni Purana.) pleasure with his army of goblins in the caves and
MUKUTA. A Ksatriya family. It was in this family shades of trees in this place. Everyday the Sadhyas,
that the wicked King Vigahana was born. (Sloka 16, Rudras, Visvadevatas, Vasus, Yama, Varuna, Bhutas,
devils, Nasatyas, Asvins, Gandharvas, celestial
Chapter 74, Udyoga Parva) .
MUKUTA. A follower of Subrahmanya. ( Sloka 23, maidens, Yaksas, Devarsis, Adityas, Maruts, and
Yatudhanas come to this mountain to worship Siva.
Chapter 46. Salya Parva). There is neither heat nor cold here. Greying of hairs or
MULAKA, A son of Kumbhakarna. Mulaka was born rugosity is unknown here. There is no hunger or
on Miila day and Kumbhakarna deeming that day and thirst either. None dies here. On the sides of this
the constellation inauspicious threw the baby away. The
mountain gold lies spread like sunlight. (Verses 1-12
abandoned child was brought up by honey-bees giving Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 8) .
MUMUCU. A wholived in Daksinabharata. Ganapati. (Sloka 22, Chapter 83, Vana Parva).
sage
(Chapter 165, Verse 39, Anusasana Parva).
MUNJAVATA II. A holy place of pilgrimage devoted
to Siva on the banks of the river Gahga. If a man
MUiypA I. A warrior of the country of Munda. In
the great battle the Mundas were present in the goes to this place and does circumambulation of the
idol there singing songs in praise of Siva he would get
Kaurava's army. (Sloka 9, Chapter 56, Bhlsma Parva).
the position of Ganapati and if he bathes in the Ganga
MUNDA II. An asura. ( See under Candamundas.
river also, he would be absolved of all sins. ( Sloka 67,
MUiVpAKA. A forest. During his exile Sri Rama enter-
ed this great forest of Mundaka and paid homage to the Chapter 85, Vana Parva).
sage Agastya. ( Aranya Kanda, Kamba Ramayana) . MUNJAVATA. A place on the Himalayas. Once
MUlVDAVEDAivIGA. A
serpent born of the family of Parasurama went to this place and calling the sages
Dhrtarastra. This serpent was burnt to death at the there instructed them to keep their tufts knotted to-
Sarpasatra of Janamejaya. (Sloka 17, Chapter 57, gether. (Sloka 3, Chapter 112, Sand Parva).
Adi Parva) . MUNNLJ (THREE). The importance of the number
MUNDI. A female follower of Subrahmanya. (Sloka three is indicated below :
three classes of people who are considered to have a three tapas (agonies) are Anaksarajnasambhasana
very low position in society are the wifeless, sonless and (conversing with illiterate persons), Dusprabhusevana
servant less ones. (serving arrogant masters) and Lambapayodharalin-
3) Abhijdtavihitatraya. (Three dealings, with men of gana (embracing women with hanging breasts).
equal nobility). The three important dealings which 22) Tauryatrika. The three constituents of triple
should be had with only people of equal nobility are symphony arc Dance, Music and Instrumental music.
alliance, marriage and litigation. 23) Jdtitraya. The three distinguishing types of all
4) Abhmayalraya. (Three kinds of acts). The three created beings are Uttama (best), Madhyama
kinds of acts are the Hastabhinaya (actions with the (mediocre) and Adhama (worst).
hand), Angyabhinaya (actions with gestures) and 24) Dofatraya. The disorders of the three humours of
the body are Viita (wind), Pitta (Bile) and Kapha
Rasabhinaya (actions with expressions of sentiment).
5 ) Avasthdtraya. Man lives always in any one of the (phlegm). Avyapti, Ativyapti and Asambhava are
following states Wakefulness, Dreaming and Sleep.
: also three dosas (fallacies).
6)' Avasthdbhedalraya.
The three different forms in 25) Triputikds. Jnata (knower), Jnana (knowledge)
which matter exists are as Ghana, (solid) Drava( liquid) and Jneya the object of knowledge )
( are the three
and Vataka ( gas ) .
putikas. Subject, predicate and object are also three
7) Asanatraya. Three kinds of important postures are putikas.
Virasana, Padmasana. and Svastikasana. 26) Tripuras. The three demons who always formed
8) Itivrttatraya. The three kinds of plots in a story a group are Tarakaksa, Kamalaksa and Vidyunmali.
are Prakhyata, Utpadya and Misra. 27) Tribhuvana. Svarga (heaven), Bhumi, (earth) and
9) Riiatraya.The three different kinds of debts of Patala (Netherworld) are the three bhuvanas. (worlds).
man are Deva-rna (debts to gods), Pitr-rna (debts to 28) Trimadhura. The three sweet things are honey,
the Manes) and Rsi-rna (debts to rsis). sugar and Kadali (plantain fruit).
10) Efandtraya. Esana means desire. The three kinds 29) Trimiirtis. The three Murtis (deities) are Brahma,
of esanas are Putraisana (desire for children), Vittai- Visnu and Mahesvara.
sana (desire for wealth) and Daraisana (desire for 30) Trilit'iga. The three lingas (genders) are Pullinga
wife). (masculine), Strilinga (feminine) and Napumsaka
1 1
) Jiaranatraya.
The three instruments of action are (neuter).
mind, speech and body. ?1 ) Triloka. The three worlds are Manusyaloka
12) Karmatraya. The
three actions are Srsti (creation), (world of men), Pitrloka (world of the Manes) and
Sthiti (maintenance) and Sariihara( destruction). Yaga, Devaloka (world of the gods).
Vedapadiana and Dharma also form one Karmatraya. 32) Trivarga. The following groups of three are
13) Karmakaranatraya. The three kinds of causes of classed as Trivargas (a) Dharma (Virtue), Artha
action are knowledge, what is to be known and what (wealth) and Kama (desire), (b) Vrddhi (increase)
has already been known (Jnana, Jneya and Jnata). Sthana (same position) and Ksaya (decrease), (c)
14) Kdlatraya. Past, present and future are the three Sattva, Rajas and Tamas.
divisions of time. 33) Pralayatraya, The three pralayas (floods) are
15) Kdvyatraya. Padya (verse) and
Gadya (prose), Naimittika (floods due to rains in and out of season)
Misra (combination of gadya and padya) are the Prakrtapralaya (floods arising out of saihvarttagni)
three different constituents of literature. and Atyantikapralaya (floods due to heavy rains) .
16) Kdvyagunatraya. The three chief qualities of poetic 34) Trividhayajnas. Yajnas are of three kinds.
compositions are Prasada( clearness of style), Madhurya Karmayajna, Upasanayajna and Jnanayajna. There
(sweetness of style) and Ojas (force of expression). are six divisions
in Karmayajna namely, Nityakarma,
17) Kdvyopadltitraya. The three main attributes of Naimittikakarma, Kamyakarma, Adhyatmikakarma,
poetic compositions are Vastu (plot), Riti (diction) Adhidaivikakarma and Adhibhautikakarma. For
and Rasa (sentiment). Upasanayajna there are nine divisions namely, Nir-
'
40) Dusanatraya. Vata, Pitta and Kapha are the eyed deva, fight with me or leave this place". On hear-
three dusanas (disorder of the humours in a body) .
ing it Indra left his place and came to earth. Then Mura
41) Naditraya. The three nadis of the body are Ida, took possession of Airavata and Vajra. He lived in
Pirigala and Susumna. devaloka with Maya, Tara and other danavas enjoying
42) Purufal raja. The three classes of
men are Uttama the luxuries there. Along with his wife, son and other
(best), Madhyama (mediocre) and Adhama (lowest). devas Devendra established himself on the southern bank
43) I'ramdnatraya. The three kinds of means ot" valid of Kalindi river.
knowledge are Pratyaksa (what can be seen) Anumana ,
Then one day Murasura came to the earth on the Aira-
(what can be logically inferred) and Agama (Verbal vata and landed at a place on the banks of the river
testimony. ) Sarayu where Raghu a king of the solar dynasty was
44) Brahmalaksanatraya. Suddha, Siva and Santa arc conducting a yaga. Murasura went to Raghu and said
the three Brahmalaksanas. "Come on, fight with me or you should stop this yaga.
45) Munitraya. The celebrated trio of sages are Panini, You should not worship the devas." Then the great and
Patanjali and Katyayana. brilliant Maitravaruni sage, Vasistha told him, "Daitya,
46) Togatraya. The three kinds of yogas are Jfiana- : what use is there in conquering men of the earth ? You
yoga, Bhaktiyoga and Karmayoga. should win against those who are never defeated. If you
47) Rititraya. The three ritis are Vaidarbhi, Pancali want to fight go and challenge Antaka, the god of Death.
and Gaudl. Oh, King of asuras, that boy of an Antaka would never
48) Rupakatraya. Natya, Nrtya and Nrtta are the obey your orders. If you conquer him you will have de-
three rupakas. feated all the world."
49) Vaisyavrttitraya. The three duties of a Vaisya are On hearing the words of Vasistha, Mura started to fight
Krs (agriculture), Pasupiilana (Breeding of cattle) and Dharmaraja. Yama on hearing that Mura was coming
Vanij ya ( trade) . to fight him went to Mahavisnu on his buffalo as he knew
50) Saranatraya. Buddha, Dharma and Sarigha are he could kill him. Mahavisnu asked him to send Mura
the three Saranas. to him. Yama returned to his place to see Mura there
51) Siddhitraya. The following groups of three are ready to fight. Yama told him that he would do what-
considered to be Siddhitrayas. (a) Karmasiddhi, ever Mura ordered him and then Mura said "You should
Yogasiddhi and Jnanasiddhi. (b) Aisvaryasiddhi, stop killing people or I will chop your head off."
Jnanasiddhi and Vairagyasiddhi. (c) Sraddha, Vitta Dharmaraja replied "Mura, if you had been the person
and Bhagya. (d) Mani, Mantra and Ausadha. (Siddhi who had appointed me for this job I would have will-
means attainment, accomplishment). ingly followed your instructions. But I am under the
52 ) Svaratraya. The different kinds of vowel are three control of somebody else." Mura asked '''Who is the
in number namely Hrasva (short), Dirgha (long) and person superior to you ? Tell me, I shall surely defeat
Pluta (prolated). Udatta, Anudatta and Svarita are him." Yama "There is an individual called Visnu
said
also three different kinds of accent, i.e. the acute grave holding a Cakra and a Gada in his hands living in Sveta-
and circumflex ed). dvipa. He is the person who has appointed me." Mura
MURA I. A
ferocious asura. anxiously asked "Where is his abode? I shall go there
1 Birth and acquisition of boons.
) Mura was the asura myself to conquer him." Antaka replied "You go
born to Kasyapaprajapati of his wife Danu. Once to the ocean of Milk. It is there that Visnu, the omni-
Mura was shocked to find the huge heap of dead bodies present protector of the universe is residing." Mura said
of the asuras killed by the devas. Mura got afraid of "Well, I am going to him. But you should in the mean-
death and did penance for years to propitiate his time discontinue your work of killing people." Yama
grandfather and Brahma appeared before him and replied "Go and win him. If you defeat him I shall
asked him to name the boon he wanted. Mura said abide by your instructions."
"Lord, anybody whom I touch with my hands in a Mura went to fight Mahavisnu. It was at this time that
battle, even if they are immortal, should die." Brahma Sri Krsna the incarnation of Mahavisnu attacked the
the father of the universe granted him the boon. capital city of Narakasura, Pragjyotisa. Mura went to
(Chapter 60, Vamana Purana). the help of Narakasura. The boundary of the city was
2 ) Family life. Mura became the guard of the well-fenced with ropes but Krsna cut them all and re-
boundaries of Pragjyotisa, the capital city of Naraka- moved the barrier. In the fight that ensued both
sura. Mura begot four thousand sons. Of these ten Narakasura and Mura were killed by the celebrated
were posted to guard the palace of the queens. Mura weapon Sudarsana of Krsna. From then Krsna
performed penance and obtained boons. He fenced got the name of Muramathana. (10th Skandha,
the boundary of Pragjyotisa with six thousand ropes Bhagavata).
and arrested the approach of the enemies. These ropes MURA II. Son of Talajaiigha, an asura born of a part
were known in Puranas as the Mauravapasas. (Chapter of Brahma. The capital of this valorous Murasura was
38, Daksinatya Patha, Sabha Parva). in the city of Candravatl.
3) Digvijaya. (Conquest of the quarters). Mura who Murasura who possessed the brilliance of Brahma was a
became arrogant by the power of the boons he possessed nightmare to the devas. Once Murasura fought against
went to Mahameru and challenged the Yaksas and Visnu and in the fierce fight that took place Visnu was
Gandharvas to a fight. But none dared to fight with him. defeated and he ran away from the battlefield and
Then he went to Amaravati and challenged Indra. started sleeping in a cave named Sirhhavati in the neigh-
Indra also did not accept the challenge. Then he entered bourhood of Badarikas'rama. Mura went there too. Then
Amaravat! with a raised hand. Nobody stopped him. Mahavisnu created a Devi through his Yogamaya and
Going to the palace of Indra he said "Oh, thousand- made her kill Mura.
MURA III 512 NACIKETAS
Pleased at the slaughter of Mura, Visnu blessed her and of firewood. Suddenly there were heavy rains and there
said "From today onwards you will be known as 'Eka- was a scarcity of firewood in the market and he sold
dasT. You will be capable of wiping off all sins on his stock for good price. With the money thus received
earth." ( Padmapurana, Uttarakhanda 36. 50-80). he purchased some goods and started a grocery shop.
MURA III. (MURU). A Yadava King. He was one Gradually his business increased and he became a big
of the neighbours of Jarasandha. The daughter of this merchant. Because he started the business from a Musika
Yadava king called Kamakatarikata was married to (rat) he got the nick-name Musika.
Gha(otkaca. ( 13. 13. Sabha Parvaand Skanda Purana). MUSIKASTRI. See under Pancatantra.
MURA IV (MURU) A country of ancient Bharata. A
. MUSTIKA. An who was a servant of Karhsa. This
asura
King called Bhagadatta was the King of this country. asura was killed by Balabhadra (See under Krsna) .
therefore, surmised that Murari must have lived during NABHAGA. A brother of Iksvaku. The famous Ambarlsa
the latter part of the 8th century. In the writing of was Nabhaga's son. After conquering all the worlds he
dramas Murari has excelled the Mahavlracarita of ruled the kingdom strictly along the path of truth and
Bhavabhuti and his verses indicate he had the style of righteousness. (Vana Parva, Chapter 25, Verse 12). In
Magha. the evening of his life Nabhaga gifted away the whole
MURMURA. A river. Agni originated from this river. land to Brahmins. Since she could not leave Nabhaga,
(Sloka 25, Chapter 222, Vana Parva) . Bhumidevi herself assumed physical form and went to
MURTI. One of the thirteen daughters of Daksapraja- him on the occasion. This emperor never consumed
pati.This girl was married to Dharma. Nara and Nara- meat. He lives in Brahmaloka according to Chapter
yana are the sons born to Murti of Dharma. (4th 115, Anus'asana Parva. (Santi Parva, Chapter 96,
Skandha, Bhagavata). Verse 124).
MUSAKA. An ancient place of habitation in Bharata. NABHAGARISTA. A son of Vaivasvata Manu. (Adi
(S'loka 56, Chapter 9, Bhisma Parva) .
Parva, Chapter 75, Verse 17).
MCSAKADA (MUSIKADA). A
serpent born to NABHAKANANA. An ancient country in South India.
KaSyapaprajapati of his wife Kadru. This serpent sits (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Stanza 59).
in the court of Varuna and worships him. Once Narada NABHASVAN. A son of Narakasura. Tamra, Antariksa,
introduced this naga to Matali. (Sloka 10, Chapter 9, Sravana, Vasu, Vibhavasu, Nabhasvan and Aruna
Sabha Parva and Sloka 14, Chapter 103, Udyoga were the seven prominent sons of Narakasura. (Bhaga-
Parva). vata, Skandha 10).
MUSALA. A Brahmavadi son of Vilvamitra. (Sloka 53, NABHODA. An eternal Visvadeva. (A class of gods
Chapter 4, AnuSasana Parva). concerned in the Sraddha offerings to the Manes) .
MUSIKA. An ancient merchant. In the Kathapitha-
(M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 91, Stanza 34).
lambaka of Kathasaritsagara a story is told to demon-
strate thateven without any capital an ingenious and NACIKA. One of the Brahmavadin sons of Visvamitra
industrious man can earn money. (Anusasana Parva, Chapter 4, Verse 58).
A merchant got this name by means of his industry. NACIKETA (NACIKETA). A sage of olden days. Son
Once a poor man of no resources went to the house of of Uddalaki, he lived for a long time in the asrama
a great merchant named Visakhila. He was then ad- serving his father, who devoted his time to performing
monishing a young man of his own caste. The merchant yajnas. Naciketa, who was once sent into the forest for
was saying, "See, here is a dead rat on the ground. A flowers etc. did not find them anywhere there, and he
clever man would earn money by using this as a capital. returned to the asrama without them. Angry at this
To you I have given money for business on several his father cursed him to be taken to Yamaloka.
occasions. Not only that you have not increased it but Accordingly he went to Yamaloka. He waited at the
also you have lost it." gates for a long time to see Yama, who appeared at
The poor man who went to him requested the merchant last when he sang the praises of Yama. The advice
to give him the dead rat. Vis"akhila greatly amused at then given by Yama to Naciketa forms the Kathopanisad.
the request gave him the rat. A rich man bought it for After studying the advice he returned to his father, who
his cat to eat and gave him instead two measures of was pleased to find him a great scholar. (Anusasana
Bengal gram. He roasted it and made it palatable and Parva, Chapter 71 ).
then with a pot of water went outside the city gates and NACIKETAS. A famous hermit. Kathopanisad is the
sat under a tree on the road-side. Wood-cutters were exhortation given by Yamadeva (God of death) to this
passing that way carrying loads and he sold the hermit. There is a story to substantiate this statement.
roasted gram and water to them who purchased it with The father of Naciketas was the hermit Vajasravas.
eagerness to ease their weariness. They gave him in This hermit gave as alms, cows which had grown lean
exchange firewood and in the evening he took it to by old age and lack of food, at the time of sacrifices.
the market and sold it. With the money he purchased Naciketas grieved at this action of his father. He
felt
more Bengal gram and continued the trade as before and went and sadly asked him "Father, to whom
to his father
after a few days he purchased from them a great stock are you going to give me?" The father got angry at the
NAClNA 513 NADIJA5IGHA
question of the son, and replied; "You are to be given Krkala in food, Devadatta in yawning and Dhananjaya
to Yama." in sound. Dhananjaya does not quit the body even after
On hearing these cruel words of his father, the boy went death.
to the palace of Yaina who had been away. For three Life, Prana, travels through the nadicakra depending
on
days and nights the boy waited there without food and ten different courses, i.e. Sankranti, Visuva, Ahar,
drink. When Yama returned the boy was happy and Ratri, the two ayanas (Daksina and Uttara), Adhivasa
cheerful and Yama was pleased with him. Yama pro- Rna, Unaratra and Dhana. Unaratra means hiccough,
mised the boy three boons and asked him what boon he Rna cough, Dhana breathing and Adhivasa yawning.
wanted. The first boon he asked for was, "Give me the Of the two ayanas, Uttara and Daksina, the former is
boon that father will be pleased with me and not angry the course towards the left and the latter towards the
with me." The second was, "Advise me how to attain right and Visuva is the centre between the two.
heaven." The third was, "Tell me the solution of the Sankranti is the change of position of Visuva. On he
mystery, whether the soul remains after death." Yama left side of the human body is the nadl called Ida, on
granted the first two boons and said to him, "Boy, this the right side Pingala and between the two Susumna.
is a difficult
question. So ask for another boon such as The prana above these three nadis is Ahar i.e. day and
long life, power over the world, all the pleasures of the that below is Apana, i.e. night. Thus every vayu assumes
world and so on." ten different forms.
The boy replied: "The things you have promised to There are various kinds of pranayama (control of
give me are useless things because after a while the breaths). Pranayama practised with the prana contained
organs of sense will become fragile. The life also will in the centre of the body is called Candragrahana;
end. So, please tell me. I want the answer to my that which supersedes physical principles is called
question." Being greatly pleased at the reply of the boy Suryagrahana. To fill the stomach with as much of vayu
Dharmadeva expounded to him about the immortality as is desired is Purakapra.naya.ma. To remain like a full
of the soul and the essence of things regarding God pot, all breathing stopped, (Pot completely filled)
Almighty. (Kathopanisad). having closed the openings 'doors'
all of the body i.
NAClNA. An ancient region of the country mentioned Kumbhaka. The yogi practising Kumbhaka should
in Chapter 38,Sabha Parva. direct the vayu upwards in one breath, and that practice
NADA. See under Pattu. is called Recaka. He who does it should be conversant
NADAGIRI. An intelligent elephant with discriminative with the yoga of inhalation. Erudite people call it
power. Mention is made about
this elephant on several Japa, because when it is practised Siva resident in one's
occasions in Kathasaritsagara. own body awakes within. Siva, the King of yogins,
NApICAKRA. The ten nadis where the yogi in medita- chants the man tra(japa) 2 1,6000 times within the course
tion retains the five pranas form the nadicakra. of one day and one night. The soul chants the mantra
At the bottom of the nabhi (nabhikanda) innumerable Gayatri of which Brahma, Visnu and Siva are the pre-
nadis or nerves originate or sprout up. 72,000 such siding deities, and that is called Ajapa. He who chants
nadis exist at the centre of the nabhi (navel) The whole
.
Ajapa will have no future births. Pranayama should be
body is filled with these nadis spread out in parallel and followed by Kundalimyoga, Kundalinl meaning primor-
horizontal positions, and they exist in the form of dial force. The force is a compound of Sun, fire and
circles entwined with one another. Ten nadis are promi- Moon and its seat is the heart, where it exists in the form
nent amongst them, i. e. Ida, Pingala, Susumna, of a sprout. Since creation is dependent upon this force
Gandhari, Hastijihva, Prtha, Yasa, Alambusa, Kuha power for creation should be invoked on it. The yogin
and Sankhinl. Any defect or harm caused to any one should picture in his mind that nectar flows out of
of these ten nadis may lead even to death. Kundalini. He should also realise that the soul within
There are ten Vayus (winds) in the body. The five Pranas the body possesses form while pure soul is formless. He
called Prana, Apana, Samana, Udana and Vyana, and should address this soul as 'Harhsa Hariisa'. Harhsa
the five Vayus called Naga, Kurma, Krkala, Devadatta means Siva. Siva exists and functions inside and outside
and Dhananjaya together constitute the ten Vayus. the body just as oil is in the gingeily seed and fragrance
Prana is the most important Vayu. This vayu does the in flower. Soul possessing form is of five kinds. Accord-
emptying as well as the refilling of the other nine vayus ingly Brahma's seat is the heart, Visnu's the neck,
and thus sustains life. The pra.nava.yu has its existence Rudra's, the centre of the throat; Mahesvara's the
ever in the chest of living beings and fills the body forehead; and Siva's, the tip of the prana. Soul without
with air through breathing in, out, coughing etc. It form is just contrary to the above. Its place is where
depends on life and it is called Pranavayu as it moves the prana ends. By pranayama the formless soul may
or travels with life. be experienced. (Agni Purana, Chapter 214).
Apana vayu downwards. It is Apana which directs
leads NADlJA. An In Mahabharata, Udyoga
ancient King.
man's food downwards. Also it keeps in its fold urine Parva, Chapter 4, Stanza 15, it is mentioned that the
and semen. This vayu is called Apana as its function is Pandavas had sent an invitation to this King to take
adhonayana (leading downwards) as mentioned above. part in the Bharata battle.
Samanavayu conveys to the different parts in the body NADlJAivIGHA I. A famous stork. It lives in the pond
in equal manner the things which living beings eat, Indradyumna as an eternal being, without death.
called
drink and smell as also blood, bile, phlegm and vata. (See under Indradyumna).
Udana causes the shivering of lips, flushing of face and NADlJAisIGHA II. A kite, who was a son of Kasyapa.
eyes and excitement of joints etc. Vyana causes the A friend of Brahma, it was known as Rajadharma as well.
limbs to be closed and stretched, and it excites diseases. Nadijangha was once killed for food by an ungrateful
Naga exists in nausea, Kurma in the bulging of the eyes brahmin. (For details see under Gautama V).
NADVALA 514 NAGASATA
NADVALA. (a) The wife of Manu, the son of actors, those who extract oil, fishermen etc. should be
Caksusa Manu. Ten sons named 0ru, Puru, Satadyu- in the corner of Nirrti (South West) Sheds for chariots,
.
mna, Tapasvi, Satyavak, Kavi, Agnistu, Atiratra, weapons, swords etc. should be on the western side.
Sudyumna and Atimanyu were born to Manu by Dealers in liquor, carpenters, blacksmiths, masons etc.
Nadvala. (Agni Purana, Chapter 18). and servants should be given houses in the Vayu
(b) The daughter of Prajapati Vairaja. Manu married corner i .e North West. The houses of Brahmins, hermits,
this woman. Kuru, Puru, Satadyumna, Tapasvi, sages, saints, and such others should be on the north
Satyavan, Suci, Agnistoma, Atiratra, Sudyumna and side. In the Is ana corner (North East) merchants of
Abhimanyu were the ten sons born to Nadvala from vegetables and on the eastern side, the authorities of
Manu. (Vismi Purana, Ams a 1, Chapter 13). the army should have their houses.
NAGA I. An asura (demon). (See under Nagastra). The army (Infantry, cavalry, chariots and elephants)
NAGA II. A class of serpents. It is stated in Valmlki should be put up in the Agni corner. On the south the
Ramayana, Aranya Kanda, Sarga 14, that of the ten goddesses who are protectors of women-folk should be
daughters of Kasyapa, from Surasa, the nagas and consecrated. Archers should live in the Nirrti corner.
from Kadru, the Uragas (both are serpents) came into Most honourable people, Treasury officers, Leaders of
the world. the people, Brahmin groups and such others should
NAGADATTA. One of the hundred sons of Dhrtarastra. have their abodes on the western side. So also Ksatri-
This Nagadatta was killed by Bhlmasena. (Maha- yas should have their houses on the eastern side,
bharata, Drona Parva, Chapter 157, Stanza 197). Vaisyas on the south and Sudras on the west of the
NAGADHANVATlRTHA. An ancient holy place of city. Vaisyas and horses should be placed on all four
bath, situated in the basin of the river Sarasvati. sides. The army also should be placed thus. The
Vasuki stays here. It was at this holy place that Vasuki movable wealth should be placed on the east side
was anointed as the King of the Nagas. (M.B. Salya and place on the south. The
the funeral cattle
Parva, Chapter 37, Stanza 3). etc. should bekept on the west, farmers on the
NAGADVlPA. A region inside the island Sudarsana. north, and the outcastes on the corners. This
This region has the shape of the ear of the hare in the should be the plan of a city as well as that of
Moon. (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 6, Stanza 55). villages too.
NAGALOKA. The world of the Nagas or Patala. Vasuki On the east fort-gate of cities and villages Vaisravana
is its chief. (Adi Parva, Chapter 127, Verse 60). There and Sri Bhagavati Should be consecrated. They will
is a pond in Nagaloka and a drink of its water bestows confer prosperity upon those who visit them. Temples
the strength of a thousand elephants. (Adi Parva, dedicated to Gods should be erected on the western
Chapter 127, Verse 68). Patala is thousands of miles side facing the east. If temples are erected on the east
away from earth. Its area exceeds a thousand yojanas, they should face the west and those erected on the
and it is surrounded by magnificent forts studded with south should face the North. For the protection of the
gems. The steps at the entrance of the fort are also city, there should be temples dedicated to Indra, Visnu
decorated with gold and gems. There are beautiful and such other Gods. If there is no worshipping place
gardens, fountains and singing birds in Patala. Its outer in a city, a village, a fort, or a house, such places will
doors are hundred yojanas in length and five in width. be haunted by devils and troubled by diseases etc. If
(Asvamedha Parva, Chapter 58, Verse 37). cities are built according to this plan they will afford
NAGAPURA. A place situated on the basin of the both salvation and prosperity.
river Gomati in Naimisaranya. It is mentioned in On the east there should be the house of Laksmi, in
Mahabharata, Santi Parva, Chapter 355, Stanza 3, the Agni corner, the kitchen on the south, bedrooms
that in this place, a Naga named Padmanabha lived. in the Nirrti corner the weapon-house, on the west
NAGARA. In ancient days there were rules and prin- the dining hall, in the Vayu corner, the granary, on
ciples regulating the construction of a city.
The name the north, the treasury, and the place of worship in
'city' could be applied to
them only if they conformed the Is ana corner.
to the rules and principles in vogue. The principles Houses could be erected with four blocks, three blocks
and rules of the erection of a proper city are given or only one block. Houses with four blocks could be
below: made in two hundred and fiftyfive ways by making
One yojana or a half of land should be selected as changes in each block and the open verandas. Houses
site. The planning of the city should be commenced
1 with three blocks are of four types; with two blocks
after worshipping the deity of Vastu. There should be are of five types and houses of only one block are of
;
four main gates on the four sides, East, West, North four types. There are houses and cities with twenty-
and South. The South gate should be in the position of eight open verandas. There are fiftyfive types of
Gandharvapada, West gate in the place of Varuna, the houses with four open verandas and seven open
North gate in the place of Soma (Moon) and the East verandas. Houses with six open verandas and eight
fort gate in the place of Suryapada (the position of the open verandas are of twenty types. In cities houses
Sun) The hattas (minor gates) should be wide enough
.
should have eight open verandas. (Agni Purana,
for elephants etc. to pass through. The main gates Chapter 105).
should be six rods wide. NAGARJUNA. Minister of King Cirayus. (For details
When the city is completed goldsmiths should be see under Cirayus)
settled in the Agni corner (i.e. South East). The
2 NAGARI. One of the prominent children of Garuda.
courtesans who live by dancing etc. should have their (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 101, Verse 9) .
houses on the south side of the city. The houses of NAGAATA. The mountain where Pandu did tapas
1 A yojana isapproximately twelve Kilometres.
2 To know the corners see under Astadikpalakas,
NAGASRl 515 NAHUSA I
along with Kunti, Madri and others. (Adi Parva, Agnistoma sacrifice. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 83,
Chapter 118, Verse 47). Stanza 14) .
NAGASRl. Wife of King Dharmadatta of Kosala. NAGATlRTHA A holy place which is situated near
II.
Taradatta was their daughter. (See under Dharma- Kanakhalaorand which keeps up the
Gangadvara
datta )
memory of Kapila, the King of the Nagas. (M.B.
.
NAGASTRA. A destructive weapon (arrow). The Vana Parva, Chapter 84, Stanza 66).
following story about the astra is told in the Yuddha NAGAVlTHl. the daughter of
Daughter born to Yami,
Kanda of Kamba Ramayana.
Daksaprajapati. (Visnu Purana, Part Chapter 15). 1,
In olden times there was a very powerful and mean A It is mentioned in
asura called Naga. Brahma resorted to virulent black
NAGNAJIT I. Ksatriya King.
Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 37, Stanza 21 that
magic to kill Naga, and from the fire-pit arose a terri- this King was born from a portion of an asura called
ble goblin called Nagapasa. It was deputed to kill
Isupada. This Nagnajit who was the King of Gan-
Naga and the Trimurtis followed it. Nagapasa went dhara was killed by Kama
and his sons were defeated
to the city of Nagasura called Viramahendra, ascended
by Sri Krsna. (Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter
its tower and made a terrible noise the echo of which 254 and Udyoga Parva, Chapter 43).
caused abortion in all the pregnant naga women. Many
children fainted and many died. Nagasura deputed his NAGNAJIT II. An asura. This asura who had been
. the disciple of Prahlada took rebirth as a King named
army chieftain Virasena with an army to kill the naga -
Subala. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, Chapter 63,
goblin. At the sight of the army the goblin raised
Stanza 11).
another terrible cry, which blew off Virasena and his
army, reducing them to powder. Then Nagasura's
NAGODBHEDA. A holy place near Vinasana tirtha.
minister with a big army attacked the goblin. But the Sarasvatisupposed to dwell here in invisible form.
is
minister was devoured by him, and the army annihilated. He who bathes here will attain nagaloka. (Vana
at this defeat of his minister, Parva, Chapter 82, Verse 112).
Enraged Nagasura attack-
ed the goblin with an army of crores of soldiers. But, NAHUSA I. A famous King of the Lunar dynasty.
within seconds the goblin devoured the mighty 1
) Genealogy. Descended from Visnu in the following
army.
At order Brahma-Atri - Candra - Budha-Pururavas-Ayus-
Nagapasa and Nagasura engaged themselves
:
last in
a duel which lasted for the Nahusa.
years. Ultimately goblin
swallowed up Nagasura also. Then he went to the 2) Birth. Ayus, the son of Pururavas, married the
Trimurtis and saluted them. They granted him many princess named Indumati (Svarbhanukumari). Nahusa
was the son born to the couple, thanks to the blessing of
boons, and Siva, in excess of joy, wore it as one of the
ornaments round his neck. Some time later Nagapasa the great hermit Dattatreya. Nahusa married Asoka-
set out on a tour to see the fourteen worlds, and Siva sundarl, the daughter of Siva,
There is a story about the birth and marriage of Nahusa
specially instructed him not to visit the Salmali island.
He visited the various worlds earning all knowledge and ASokasundari in Padma Purana as given below :
and started for mount Kailasa. On his way he saw Once Siva and Parvati were engaged in love-making in
Salmali island, the abode of nagas, and in violation of Kailasa. Parvati requested Siva to show her the best
Siva's instructions, he entered the island. The nagas garden ever created by Brahma. Siva took her to
there did not honour him and his false pride made him Nandanavana, where she saw the Kalpa tree, which
tremble with rage. Then the nagas of the island told was beautiful all over, and she asked Siva about its
him thus "We
have a powerful enemy, who visits us
: special features. Siva replied that anything asked of it
would be granted by the Kalpa tree. Parvati made a
every month, and unless we feed him sumptuously he
will devour all of us for food He is to come today, and request to the Kalpa tree for a girl just for a test.
if you are capable
enough, you defeat and drive him Instantly a very beautiful girl was born from the tree.
off and save us. If you do so, we shall crown you as our Parvati named her ASokasundari and brought her up as
her daughter. Once Parvati gave her a boon that she
King and honour you."
would become the wife of King Nahusa of the Lunar
The powerful enemy of the nagas was Garuda and he
came. All the nagas ran off at his sight. Garuda then family, who would be equal to Indra.
attacked the goblin Nagapasa, who was standing un-
One day, when the beautiful Asokasundari was walking
with celestial maids in the Nandanavana an asura
perturbed before him. There being no chance of vic- named Hunda the son of Vipracitti, came there. The
tory for the goblin he ran away and took refuge with moment his eyes fell on ASokasundarl he fell in love
Siva. Garuda also followed him, and demanded of
with her. The asura spoke to her of his love and re-
Siva to return to him, his enemy, the goblin. Siva
told Garuda thus: quested her to be his wife. Not only did she refuse his
"If, in future he (the goblin)
interferes with anybody connected with you, you may request but also told him that according to the boon
either punish or eat him. Do not do anything with him given by Parvati she would become the wife of Nahusa.
the King of the Lunar dynasty.
now".
Hearing this Hunda smiled and said "That righteous :
Garuda agreed to the above proposal of Siva. From man named Nahusa is yet to be born in the Lunar
that day onwards Nagapasa lived in Vaikuntha en-
dynasty. You will be much older than he. He will not suit
twined with nooses. He became the arrow called naga-
you as he will be too young. So don't waste your blooming
pasa or nagastra. youth. Come and enjoy life with me." But Asokasundari
NAGATlRTHA I. A holy place situated on the boun- did not concede. Hunda was disappointed. So he began
dary of Kuruksetra. Those who drink the water of to think about ways to get her. He disappeared from
this holy bath will obtain the fruit of
performing an there and reappeared in the guise of a beautiful woman
NAHUSA I 516 NAHUSA I
and told Asokasundari thus: "Lady, I have taken a child took it, named it Nahusa and brought him up.
fast. Huuda has killed my husband. I am doing penance The King and his wife Indumati cried for a long time
to curse him. You may come to my hermitage on the over the loss of the child. At that time Narada came
banks of the Gariga". there and told them that their son would return
Asokasundari believed these false words. She went with soon.
her. Both of them walked on and at last entered a Once Nahusa was bringing Samits (butea-fuel) when
palace. Then only did she understand that it was the he heard some devacaranas (heavenly singers) saying
palace of Hunda, who assumed his original form and among themselves the history of Nahusa. Nahusa heard
tried to violate her chastity. Asokasundari became angry it. He told Vasistha all that he had heard. Vasistha
and cursed Hunda that he would die at the hands of toldhim all the stories from the beginning to his being
Nahusa, and ran away to Kailasa. kidnapped by Hunda. Nahusa was amazed at what
Hunda was sad for two reasons. On the one hand he heard. He wanted to kill Hunda instantly. So he
he did not get Asokasundari and on the other hand bowed before Vasisfha and taking bow and arrow went
he had incurred the curse that Nahusa would be his away to kill Hunda.
slayer. Now what was the way to get out of the trouble
? Believing that he had eaten Nahusa, Hunda approached
He asked his minister Kampana to take Indumati the Asokasundari again and told her that he had actually
wife of Ayus by stealth and bring her to his palace. They eaten Nahusa. Asokasundari felt very sad when she
decided to destroy Nahusa in the womb of Indumati, in heard this. At that time a Kinnara named Vidyuddhara
case it was not possible to carry her away. They waited and his wife came there. They consoled Asokasundari
for an opportunity. and told her that Nahusa was alive. He continued.
Ayus was an emperor of righteousness. After the marri- "Oh beautiful lady, that great sage will kill Hunda-
age, for a long time he was childless. Once he visited sura and marry you, and live with you as an emperor
the hermit Dattatreya, in his hermitage. Dattatreya in this world, as Sakra (Indra) in heaven. From Nahusa
who was the son of Atri and the most famous and will be born to you a son named Yayati, who will be
the noblest of all the hermits, was quite senseless and righteous, kind and loving towards his subjects and
red-eyed because of drinking, and without even the equal to Indra, and a hundred daughters who would
Brahmasutra, was playing with a young woman, be exceedingly beautiful and of very fine character. Then
seating her in his lap. His body was besmeared with Nahusa will go to heaven and become Devendra.
sandalwood and aloe and adorned with garlands and At that time your son Yayati will be the emperor and
necklaces of pearl and he was surrounded by many will rule his subjects with kindness. Four sons, who
women. The King seeing the divine hermit bowed would possess prowess and valour, who would be second
him with reverence and fear. The moment the hermit to none in archery will be born to him. They will be
saw the King, he sat in deep meditation. This continued known by the names Turvasu, Puru, Kuru and Yadu.
for a hundred years, at the end of which period, seeing Powerful and mighty sons called Bhoja, Bhlma,
the devotion of the King, he said, "Oh King !
why do Andhaka, Kukkura, Vrsni, Srutasena, Srutadhara and
you take this trouble. I have left off the customs and Kaladarhstra will be born to Yadu. They will become
manners of Brahmins. I have no Brahmanya (Brahmin- famous by the name Yadavas. Several sons will be born
ism) .I am immersed in liquor, meat and women. So to them. Thus the family of Nahusa and yourself will
that he would not be defeated by devas, asuras, Kinnaras Became a python by the curse of Agastya. To get remission
giants, and Ksatriyas, that he would be the protector of from the sin of Brahmahatya, incurred by killing Vrtra-
his subjects and that he would be a great scholar in
sura, Indra hid himself in a cluster lotuses in the Manasa
Vedas and Sastras. Saying this he gave the King a lake. The devas who were worried due to the absence
fruit to be given to his wife. The King returned to his
of Indra, elected Nahusa as Indra temporarily. Nahusa
palace. wanted to get Indranl. Agastya cursed Nahusa and
The King gave the fruit to his wife Indumati. She ate
changed him to a python. At the sight of the Pandavas
it and became pregnant. One night she gave birth to a he regained his original form and went back to the
son. When the servant-maid went out of the room of under
world of Indra. (For detailed story see
confinement Hunda entered into her body and went
Agastya).
in. When all were asleep he took the child and ran to
his palace at Kancanapura. He gave the child to his 4) Other details.
wife Vipula and asked her to make a sauce of the child (i) Nahusa had six sons Yati, Yayati, Sarhyati, Ayati,
for him. Vipula gave the child to the servant woman to Ayati and Dhruva. (M.B., Adi Parva, Chapter 75,
cook it. the aid of the cook she hid the child and
With Stanza 30) .
prepared a sauce with some other flesh. The cook took (ii) Nahusa was allowed to enter heaven because he
the child to the hermitage of Vasistha and placed it at made himself pure by performing the sacrifice Vais-
the door of the hermitage, in the night. At dawn nava yajna. (M.B., Vana Parva, Chapter 257, Stanza
Vasisfha came out of the hermitage and seeing the 5).
NAHUSA II 517 NAKSATRAYOGA
Parva, Chapter 56, Stanza 9). NAIMISAKUNJA. An ancient sacred place on the
(iv) Nahusa got a famous sword from his father Ayus. borders of Kuruksetra. The Rsis of Naimisaranya built
(M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 266, Stanza 7). this place. A bath here gives the same results as an
(v) Nahusa had once a talk with the hermit Cyavana agnistomayajna. (Vana Parva, Chapter 83, Verse
about the wealth of cows. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, 108)'.
Chapter 51 ).
NAIMISEYA. A sacred place. River SarasvatI which
(vi) On
another occasion the hermit Cyavana granted flowed westwards changed its course here towards the
Nahusa a boon. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 51, east so that it (river) might see the sages of Naimi-
Stanza 44). saranya. There is a story about it in Mahabharata as
(vii) Once Nahusa gave to Brahmins lakhs of cows follows :
as alms. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, Chapter 81, Stanza The Yajna conducted by Saunaka at Naimisaranya
5). ended in the twelfth year. The Rsis who came from
Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter
(viii) It is stated in various parts of the country were put up in asramas
8, Stanza Nahusa, after death, stays in the palace
8, that built on the banks of river SarasvatI. But, many Rsis
of King Yama (God of death). did not get accommodation there and they moved east-
(ix) Mention is made in the Rgveda, Mandala 1, wards. The River SarasvatI which felt sorry that the
Anuvaka 7, Sukta 31, about Nahusa's becoming Indra. Rsis could not be accommodated also turned and moved
(x) The names Devaraja, Devarat Devendra, Jagatpati, eastwards, and thus afforded space for asramas to be
Naga, Nagendra, Suradhipati, Surapati etc. are used in built on her banks. (Salya Parva, Chapter 37).
Bharata as synonyms for Nahusa. NAIRRTA. An urban region in ancient India.
NAHUSA II. A famous naga (serpent) born to Kasyapa - (Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, Verse 51).
prajapati by his wife Kadru. (Mahabharata, Adi Parva, NAIRRTI. A Raksasa. His name also occurs in the list
Chapter 35, Stanza 9). of the ancient guards or protectors of the world. (Santi
NAIDHRUVA. A gotra-originator of the
Kasyapa dynasty. Parva, Chapter 227, Verse 52) .
Chapter II).
Brahma as a Rtvik (family priest), the Sarhhita Kalpa,
the mantras( spells and incantations). In Angirasa Kalpa
NAIKAPRSTHA. A particular region in ancient India.
Verse 41) sorcery and enchantment and in Sandkalpa, Sands
(Bhisma Parva, Chapter 9, .
modern name for the place, and it is in the Sitapur alms-giving on each star or day will be rewarded by
zilla of North India. particular attainments. This is called Naksatrayoga.
Saunaka conducted a yajna here which lasted for twelve The Naksatrayoga of each star is given below:
1) ASvayuk: Those who give horses and chariots as
years. All the reputed Rsis participated in it, and there alms on
Suta (Sauti) the son of Vyasa recited to the Maharsis
this day, would be born again in a noble
Mahabharata composed by Vyasa. (Adi Parva, Chapter family.
2) Bharani: If lands and cows are given to Brahmins
1 ;
also see under Suta).
on this day, one would get a large number of cows and
2 ) Other information. become famous
will in heaven.
Devas once came to this place and conducted a yajna If rice-pudding is given to Brahmins to
3) Krttika:
there. (Adi Parva, Chapter 196, Verse 1)
their satisfaction on this day the' giver will attain the
.
(ii) Arjuna once visited here the river called Utpalini. prominent worlds after death.
(Adi Parva, Chapter 214, Verse 6) .
4) Rohini: If milk-rice and venison mingled with
(iii) Half of the sin of those who visit Naimisa will at
ghee given to Brahmins on
is this day, his indebtedness
once be dispelled. The remaining portion of the sin also to the manes would end.
will be removed before they return from the place. He
5) Mrgasiras: (Candra naksatra). If a milch-cow
who stays for a month and bathes here will derive all the is
given as alms on
this day, one would attain heaven.
results of Gomeda yajna. He who quits his life here by If fast is taken and gingelly oil is given as
6) Ardrd:
fasting will attain all the sacred lokas. (Vana Parva, alms on this day, the giver will become capable of
Chapter 84, Verse 59) .
crossing mountains and trenches.
(iv) River GomatI, Yajnabhumi of the Devas and the 7 ) Punarvasu He who gives bread on this day will be
:
yajiiic vessel of Surya are found at this place. (Vana- born again in a good family.
Parva, Chapter 87, Verse 6) .
8) Pusya: He who gives gold as alms on this day
(v) Dharmaputra once came to this place with his will enter the world of bright planets.
NAKULA 518 NAKULA
9) Attefd: He who gives an ox made of silver as alms funeral pyre and died leaving her two sons with Kunti.
on this day, will become fearless. After this the hermits of Sataj'rnga took Kunti and her
10) Maghd: He who gives gingelly as alms on this five sons to Bhisma at Hastinapura.
day will become prosperous with cows. At Hastinapura, Nakula learned archery under the great
11) Purvaphalguni: If ghee-rice is given to Brahmins teacher Drona. According to the instruction of the
taking fast on this day, the giver would become happy teacher, Arjuna had to fight with him (teacher) on the
and prosperous. completion of the teaching and during that fight Nakula
12) Uttarapkalguni: He who gives rice of Nivara and Sahadeva were the guards of Arjuna's chariot-
variety mixed with milk and ghee on this day will be wheels. As Nakula was such an expert in wielding the
honoured in heaven. weapons, he got the name 'Atirathi'. (M.B. Adi Parva,
13) Hasta: If one gives four horses and an elephant Chapter 138, Stanza 30). When the lac-palace was
as alms, on this day, one will attain the world of bliss. completed at Varanavata, the Pandavas shifted to that
14) Citrd: He who gives oxen and perfumery as alms mansion by the instruction of Dhrtarastra. When the
on this day, will enter the parks in which celestial lac-palace was set fire to, the Pandavas escaped by way
maids play. of an underground passage and reached the banks of
15) Svdti: He who gives any sort of wealth as alms the Ganga. There Nakula and Sahadeva fell down
on this day will become renowned in the worlds. weary and exhausted. Bhlma carried them on his
16) Visdkhd: He who gives as alms on this day, oxen, shoulders. After Baka had been killed, they proceeded
milch-cow, grain-box, cart, paddy and diamond will to Pancalapura, where at the Svayamvara (marriage)
attain heaven. Pancall became the wife of the Pandavas. They returned
17) Anurddhd: He who gives cloth, rice and blanket to Hastinapura. A son named Satanika was born to
on this day will be honoured in heaven for a hundred Nakula by Pancali. ( M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 95,
yugas. Stanza 75).
18) Jyefthd: If Brahmins are given yams and greens After that Nakula married Karenumati, the daughter
on this day one could realize one's wishes. of the King of Cedi. A son named Niramitra was born
19) Mula: The manes will be contented, if Brahmins to the couple. -(M.B. Adi Parva, Chapter 95, Stanza
are given roots and nuts on this day. 70).
20) Purvdfddhd: If Brahmins who are expounders of Nakula was then sent to the kingdoms of the west for
Vedas are given as alms pots of curd, after observing regional conquest, by Dharmaputra. The wealth of the
fast, the givers will take birth again in families with kingdoms he had conquered, was carried on ten
many cows. thousand camels to the capital Hastinapura. (M.B.
21) Uttardfddhd:- He who gives milk and ghee to Sabha Parva, Chapter 32). After the Rajasuya
wise men will be honoured in heaven.
(imperial consecration) of Yudhisthira, Nakula went
22) Sravana: Those who give cloth and rug on to Gandhara to escort Subala and his sons. After the
this day will enter a white conveyance and reach defeat of Yudhisthira in the game of dice, the Panda-
heaven. vas went to live in the forest. At that time Nakula put
23) Sravifthd: Those who give cattle, cart and cloth soil all over his body and sat on the ground because of
on this day will enter heaven. his profound grief. In the forest, once Jafasura carried
24) Satabhi^ak: Those who give sandalwood and away Nakula. (See under Jatasura), Nakula killed
aloe wood on this day, will go to the world of devas
Ksemankara, Mahamaha and Suratha in the forest
(gods) .
At Dvaitavana (a forest) Nakula went to a lake to
25) Purvaproffhapada : He who gives coins on this day fetch water and was killed by Dharmadeva who appear-
will reach the world of bliss. ed in the form of a crane. At the request of Dharma-
26) Uttaraprofthapada Those who give mutton on
:
putra, who came afterwards, all the Pandavas includ-
this will be pleasing the manes.
day ing Nakula were brought to life again, by Dharma.
27) Revati: He who gives cows which could give During the pseudonymity of the Pandavas at the city of
potfuls of milk, could reach any world. (M.B. Ann- Virata, Nakula assumed the name Granthika. When
s' asana Parva, Chapter 64). the period of pseudonymity expired, Nakula fought
NAKULA. with the Trigartas on behalf of the King Virata. On
1
)
Birth. The fourth of the Pandavas. Madrl, the the return of the Pandavas after the expiry of their
second of the two wives of Pandu meditated on the twin forest-life and when
pseudonymity, Duryodhana
gods Asvinidevas, and recited one of the Mantras given announced that he would give not even a single dot of
to Kunti by the hermit Durvasas and the two sons land to them, Nakula was very eager to decide the
Nakula and Sahadeva were born to her from those matter by a battle. He proposed that the King Dru-
gods. It is mentioned in Mahabharata, Adi Parva, pada should be made the chief captain of the army.
Chapter 67, Stanza 1 1 1 that Nakula and Sahadeva 3) Nakula in th. Bhdrata-battle. The following is the
were immensely handsome.
part played by Nakula in the battle of Kuruksetra.
2) Story of Nakula till the Bhdrata battle. Naming and There was a combat between Nakula and Dussa-
such other rituals after birth were performed for Nakula (i)
sana on the first day of the battle. (M.B. Bhisma
also as in the case of the other Pandava children, by the
hermits who lived in Satasrnga. The ceremony of in- Parva, Chapter 15, Stanza 23) .
vestiture with the Brahma string was conducted by (ii) Nakula fought with Salya and was wounded.
KaSyapa the priest of Vasudeva. The royal hermit Suka (M.B. Bhisma Parva, Chapter 83).
taught Nakula archery and swordsplay, in his (iii) He fought with Sakuni. (M.B. Bhisma Parva,
boyhood. When Pandu died, Madrl jumped into the Chapter 105, Stanza 11).
NAKULA 519 NALAKUBARA
(iv) He engaged Vikarna in a combat. (M.B. Bhisma the country of Vidarbha ;md persuaded Damayanti to
Parva, Chapter 110, Stanza 11). love Nala. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 53) .
(v) Nakula defeated Vikarna. (M.B. Drona Parva, (iv) After death Nala sat
in the aerial chariot of Indra
Chapter 106, Stanza 12). and witnessed the battle fought by Arjuna with the
(vi) Nakula defeated Sakuni. (M.B. Drona Parva, Kauravas at the end of the forest life of the Pandavas.
Chapter 169, Stanza 16). (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 56, Stanza 10).
(vii) He defeated Duryodhana in a fight. (M.B. (v) Previous birth. Two different stories are narrated
Drona Parva, Chapter 187, Stanza 50) . about the previous birth of Nala.
(viii)Nakula killed the King of Aiiga. (M.B. Karna 1
)
In the previous birth Nala was a Vaisya of the
Parva, Chapter 22, Stanza 13). city of Pippala in the Gauda country. This Vaisya
(ix) He retreated on being defeated by Karna. (M.B. became abstinent and after leaving off everything he
Karna Parva, Chapter 24, Stanza 45). had, he went to the forest. There, according to the
(x) He fought with Drona. (M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter advice of a hermit he undertook the fast of Canes' a.
48, Stanza 34). As a result he was born as Nala in the next birth.
(xi) Nakula fought with Duryodhana again and was (Ganesa Purana).
wounded. (M.B. Karna Parva, Chapter 56 Stanza 7). 3 2) Nala and Damayanti were foresters named Ahuka
(xii) He fought with Vrsasena. (M.B. Karna Parva, and Ahuka. Siva was pleased with the couple. So they
Chapter 61, Stanza 36). were born in royal families in the next birth, and Siva
(xiii) Nakula killed Citrasena, Satyasena and form of a swan, helped them. (Siva Purana,
in the
Susena the sons of Karna. (M.B. Salya Parva, Chapter
' Satarudra Sarhhita).
10)'. NALA II. An ancient hermit. In Sabha Parva Chapter ;
4) After the Bhdrata-battle. 7, Stanza 17, it is mentioned that this hermit lives in
(i) After the battle, Nakula explained to Yudhisthira, the palace of Indra.
the duties of a house holder. (M.B. Sand Parva, NALA III. A monkey. This monkey was the son of
Chapter 12). ViSvakarma. Sri Rama and the monkey-army went to
(ii) On
the instruction of Yudhisthira, Nakula became redeem Sita from Lanka and reached the sea-shore. A
the chief captain of the army. (M.B. Sand Parva, bridge had to be made to cross the sea and reach
Chapter 41, Stanza 12). Lanka. Immediately Varuna the King of the seas
(iii) After the battle, thepalace of Durmarsana the appeared there and said, "Nala who is in the monkey-
son of Dhrtarastra was given to Nakula by Dharma- army, is the son of Visvakarma His father had given
.
putra. (M.B. Sand Parva, Chapter 44, Stanza 10). him a blessing that he would become as expert an
(iv) After the battle when Yudhisthira performed the architect as his father. So let the construction of the
horse sacrifice, Nakula and Bhimasena stood as pro- bridge be commenced under his supervision." Accord-
tectors of the city. (M.B. Asvamedha Parva, Chapter
ingly under the supervision of Nala, Rama's bridge of
72, Stanza 19). rock was completed and Sri Rama and the army of
(v) Nakula went to the forest to see Kunti, who was monkeys reached Lanka by walking over this bridge
engaged in penance during her latter days. (M.B. (Valmlki Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 22).
Asramavasi a Parva, Chapter 25, Stanza 8) . In the battle hetween Rama and Ravana, Nala fought
5) The end. At the 'great departure" ( Mahaprasthana) with the giant Tundaka. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter
of the Pandavas, Nakula died in the forest. It is 285, Stanza 9) .
woman who does not reciprocate your love. If you do 2) Four Adhikdrins. Manda (the very ordinary))
so your head will be split into seven pieces." It was Madhyama (medium standard), Uttama (best) and
because of this curse that Ravana did not touch Sita Uttamottama (the very best) .
though she was kept in his harem. (Uttara Ramayana; 3) Four Anubandhas. (Factors). In philosophy there
Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Chapter 28) . are four factors called Visaya (subject matter),
2) Another wife of Nalakubara. It is mentioned in Prayojana (purpose), Sambandha (relationship between
Kathasaritsagara, Madanamancukalambaka, Taranga factors) and Adhikarin (the deserving or eligible person).
3, that, of the two daughters, Svayamprabha and 4) Four Antahkaranas (Internal organs] Manas (mind) , .
Somaprabha of Maya, Somaprabha was the wife of Buddhi (intellect), Cittam ( heart )and Ahankara (ego).
Nalakubara. Imagination is the function of the mind, decision that
3) The curse of Narada. Nalakubara and Manigriva, of Buddhi; to retain knowledge gained in orderly
the sons of Kubera were playing with maidens
celestial form is the function of Cittam and self-respect that of
in the Ganges in nudity, when Narada came by that Ahankara.
way. The hermit was returning after visiting Visnu. 5) Four Anvavdyas. Satyam (truthfulness), Dama
The moment the celestial maids saw Narada they put (Self control), Arjavam (straightforwardness) and
on their clothes and stood aside bowing before Narada. AnrSarhsyam (not to be cruel).
Nalakubara and Manigriva did not see Narada. They 6) Anvavedas Four. Yajna (sacrifical offerings) Dana ,
ran here and there, playing with no clothes on. At (alms-giving, gifts), Adhyayana (learning) and Tapas
this, Narada got angry and cursed them that they (penance) .
would become two "Marutu" trees (Terminalia alata) 7) Four Apdtrlkaranas (Not suited to the particular
.
on the earth. They became very sad and requested for station or place in life) Brahmins are forbidden from
.
liberation from the curse. Narada told them they receiving bribes, engaging in trades, service of Sudras
would get liberation from the curse when they saw and uttering lies.
Sri Krsna, the incarnation of Visnu. Accordingly 8) Abhinayas Four. (Acting). Angikam (where gestures
Nalakubara and his brother took birth near the house and bodily actions are used to convey ideas) Sattvika .
of Nandagopa in Ambadi, as double "Marutu" trees. Subjective feelings expressed by perpiration etc.
It was the period of the childhood of Sri Krsna. Once Aharyam (extraneous) , Vacikam (by words of mouth) .
Sri Krsna swallowed mud, and Yasoda tied him to a 9) Abhydsavisqyas Four. (Subjects for practice and
mortar. The child dragged the mortar to the Marutu training). Vinaya (humility), Damana (control of
tree and got himself between the double trees. Imme- mind), Indriyanigraha (controlling the sense-organs)
diately the trees regained the original forms of and Bhutadaya (kindness) .
Nalakubara and Manigriva. They paid homage to 10) Amrtas Four. (Nectar). Good wife, talk of children,
Sri Krsna, who blessed them, and both of them present from King and honourable food.
returned to Vaisravanapurl. (Bhagavata, Skanda 10) .
11) Alankdras Four. (Ornaments). For the stars, Moon;
NALASETU. The rock bridge built by the monkey for women, husband; for earth, King and for all, edu-
named Nala. The bridge over which Sri Rama and the cation (learning) .
monkey-army crossed the sea to Lanka was built under 12) Alankdrasddhanas Four. According to rhetorics,
the supervision of Nala and so the bridge came to be Atisaya (excellence), Samya (simile), Vastavam
called Nalasetu. (M.B. Vana Parva, Chapter 283, (matter of fact, as it is) and Slesa (one word with
Stanza 45) . two meanings) are the Alankarasadhanas.
NALATANTU. One of Visvamitra's sons who were 13) Avasthds Four. (States, conditions).
expounders of Brahman. (M.B. Anusasana Parva, A. Saisavam (childhood), Kaumaram (
boyhood),
Chapter 4, Stanza 58). Yauvanam (youth) and Vardhakyam (old age).
NALAYANI. See under Pancall. B. Jagrat(wakefulness), Svapnam (dream ), Susupti
NALAYIRAPRABANDHAM. See under Nammalvar. (sleep) and Tuny am (being one with the
NALlNl. A branch of the Ganges. When the heavenly supreme soul).
Astraprayogalaksyas Four. (Objects of shooting arrows) .
NALU (FOUR). Various things mentioned in the 16) Abharanas Four (Ornaments). For man, shape or
Puranas having some association with four
form; for form, quality or merit; for quality, knowledge
(Nalu) are given below :
or wisdom and for wisdom, patience or forbearance.
1) Four distances. In the case of an elephant one must 17) Ayudhas Four. ( Weapons) Mukta, Amukta, Mukta- .
keep a distance of 1000 kols, a horse 100 kols, mukta and Yantramukta. (See under Dhanurveda) .
NALU (FOUR) 521 NAMBUTIRIS
18) Avaranas Four. (Covering, Protection). For earth 36) Ndris Four. ( Women) .
Padmini, Sankhini, Citrini,
the sea, for house the compound wall, for country the and Hastini.
King, for women chastity. 37 )
Pramdnas Four. (
Means of valid knowledge), Pratya-
19) Ahdrddis Four. (Food etc.food)
). Ahara ( ,
Nihara ksa, Anumana, Upamana, and Sabda.
(Evacuation), Maithuna (sexual act), Nidra (sleep). 38) Moksas Four. (Salvation). Salokya, Samlpya,
20) Ahdravastus Four, (edibles). Khadyam (eaten by Sarupya and Sayujya.
munching with teeth and chewing), Peyam (that which 39) Four Togas. Jnanayoga, Bhaktiyoga, Karmayoga
is drunk), Lehyam (licked with the tongue and Dhyanayoga.
)and Bhojyam
(that which is not included in the above three). 40) Four Satrus (Enemies)
Mother leading an immo-
.
21) Rnas Four. (Obligations, debts). Debts due to ral life; father who incurs debt; foolish son and beauti-
Devas, Rsis, Pitrs and Men. One pays back one's debts ful wife.
to Devas by performing yajnas. By Svadhyaya (self- 41) Four Sdstra