Balakandam FINAL

8/11/2019 Balakandam FINAL

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VALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMBalakandamBalakandamBalakandamBalakandamBalakandam

To reestablish Sanatana dharma and ancient

customs the managing committee of TTD

has decided to distribute these epics freely to

its devotees as Prasadam.

Chilukuru Venkateswarlu


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Balakandam


Year :2013

Typesetting by :R. Anuradha Raghuram, Hyderabad. (9441186831)

Submitted for approval by :

SRI RAMAKRISHNA TAPOVANAM

Chennai 600 032, Mobile : 9884708559

Website : sriramakrishnatapovanam.org

E-mail ID : [email protected]


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Dedicated to my parents

Sri Nori Suryanarayana and Smt. Nori Seetamma

1897-1952

My father Sree Nori Suryanarayana son of Sree Nori

Ramavadhani, born at Thotlavalluru. He studied Vedas from his

father. He has chosen his career as a Teacher and retired as a

Head Master. He was highly spiritual and initiated Mantra from

his Guru Sri Kuraganti Venkata Ramana Sasti, Vemuru, Tenali.

My mother Seetamma, daughter of Pisupati Vasudeva Sastri

at Kaitepalli (near Repalle). They had five sons and one

daughter. Their second son Sree Nori Sreenadha Venkata

Somayazulu has written many books on Vedanta. Their fifth son

(adopted) Chilukuru Venkateswarlu has written many Epics inTelugu and English.

- Chilukuru Venkateswarlu


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BETWEEN YOU AND ME

Society is rotten and stinking

It is our duty to protect and preserve

it. If our body fell sick it will not affect

the society. But if the mind gets sick,

the society gets rotten. Why?

Mind is the mother of all

desires. Even the waves in a sea might

stop but the desires in a mind will notstop. Many more desires crops up

even before the first one is fulfilled.

When the desires did not fulfil, the man

gets angry. Anger breeds hatredness.

Hatredness breeds vengeance.

Vengeance gives birth to violence. Such

a person will resort to heinous crimes

to fulfill his desires. Greed overpowers

mind and encourages achieving hisdesires in all unrighteous ways. The

greed will not die even if he is

imprisoned. Why a man resorts to

that? Is it due to lack of love for his

own dharma and sadacharams? or

does he disregards to the laws of land?

Or does he lacks fear for the king

(Constitution)? Or is it due to the lack

of devotion to the god?

In olden days people strive

in gurukulams till they attain perfect

knowledge. Our puranas reveals us

that Rama and Krishna also entered in

gurukulams for knowledge. Even a hundred years ago the grand parents


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used to make their kids to sit on their stomachs and teach them to

recite the morals from Neeti satakams like Vemana and sumati satakams

. They inculcate devotion in their tender minds with stories of Prahlada

and Gajendra. Thus they train their minds on Ethics on one side and

devotion on god on the other side. Oh! What a great solid system that

existed just before a century?

Now this system is disappeared under the guise of secularism.

Even grand parents do not know ethics and values of life. What can

they teach to their children? On the other hand they are questioning

What gain my child benefit by learning time old morals? We want to

make him an actor or a doctor etc In this manner even the parents

themselves are brain washing the child. While the Parents are dreaming

the future of their children they are missing natural love and affection

from their parents. As the parents are pushing their children to coaching

centres and for campus selection, in turn the children also are driving

their parents to old age homes when they are grown up. The undue

growth of old age homes should be an eye opener to the greedy parents.

Many Doctors, Layers, administrators politicians and many other

professionals are being produced in the above manner and ruling the

society. As a result ethical values are disappeared and jungle law

prevailed. There is no protection for a common man. Possession of

wealth, at any cost, is the order of the day.

These are all off shoots of mental sickness. They are not visible

to the doctors. Even Laws of the land also could not catch them. If one

in a million is caught, he is boasting without shame that he will come

out from the jail, like a cleaned pearal.

Unless the mind is controlled this disease can not be cured. If

mind becomes desireless it listens to sadbudhi. If it listens to sadbudhi,chittam becomes pure and associates close to antahkaranam. (In fact

manassu, budhi, chittamu and Antahkaranam are all one and one and

to the size of an atom, situates in hrudayam).

Our society is built on Sanatana Dharma. Vedas are authority for

those dharmas. The great rishis took out the essence from Vedas and


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framed in the form of Upanishads, sastras and puranas. Those dharmas

were further simplified in the form moral poems, devotional stories

and the grand parents were taught to their kids at a very infant age.

Now that time old tradition disappeared. But it is not a difficult task for

the almighty to put it back.

In fact these thoughts are not mime. I am only an instrument, in

the hands of my guru Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa.

Thought the society is rotten and stinking, people did not lost

devotion towards God. The unending Qs of devotees at all temples is

an evidence of their devotion towards God. This element of bhaktibhavana is enough to retreat the lost peace and hormoney in the society.

Is not a small seed brings out a huge banian tree? Now let us came to

the point.

In marketing terminology the term P.O.P (Point of Purchase)

occupies a significant place. Which means; normally a business man

keeps many more articles useful to his customers with a view of serving

him better. If a customer comes to buy an article, he buys some more

articles also useful for him. In the same way T.T.D Board also providing

several Savas to the Lord so as the devotees can avail a seva of theirchoice.

For the first time I went to Tirumala to have a darshan of Lord

Venkateswara in 1945. At that time a road was laid and dedicated for

the service of devotees. In those days one bus used to come in the

morning to Tirumala and the same bus returns to Tirupati before sunset.

Devastanam used to provide us vessels freely and we used to cook our

own food. Hardly there were 2 or 3 special services were there apart

from dharma dersanam. Now the situation is different.

Devotees are waiting in Q complex between 5 to 20 hours for

darsan. Though they are confined in their comportments physically,

but their minds are not confined at the lotus feet of Lord Venkateswara.

Unless their mind is also made confined on god related matters, they

will not get Poorna Phalam.


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Keeping in view of the above, and as guided by my Gurudev

I brought out 50 titles from Ramayanam, Bhagavatam, Mahabharatam

etc in an abridged from not expecting 150 pages. I made an appeal to

the Board of Trustees to distribute those epics freely who are all

standing in Q complexes jas long as they continue the scheme of

annadanam. In case the devotees develop taste in Sanatana dharmas,

ethics and Sadacharams they may go for its originals and enrich their

knowledge.

In fact this is a divine cause. It is the duty of the god to propagate

Sanatana dharma among the people. T.T.D has enough funds to for

Dharma Pracharam at their command. In case they need more funds,

people will stand in Q to donate for this divine cause. That is why

Mahatma Gandhi advised Choose the right cause, means follow.

Human mind is like a balance with two pans. As they enrich purity

of their mind by reciting these epics, the worldly desires, greed and

other impure qualities will disappear. In other words the society which

is on the verge of rotting will comeback and start practicing its time old

Sanatna dharmas.

As instructed by my Gurudev I ventured to put this proposalbefore the learned T.T.D managing committee. Rest Lord Venkateswara

will take care.

- CHILUKURU VENKATESWARLU


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Preface

ValmikiRamayanaoccupies a significant place in Indian Literature.

It is also popularly known as Adikavyamu the first poetical

composition. Valmikihas created many great characters which are of

great respectability, endowed with nobility and dignity. Of all the

characters Ramascharacter alone is considered as the most prominent,

since maharishitook every care in depicting its authority, excellenceand abundance. Maharishihas depicted Ramascharacter with sixteen

excellent qualities. Even upanishads praised Rama as an embodiment

of Dharma, Lord Vishnu, as a highest supreme being. In Ramayana

dharmaswere significantly introduced to achieve peace, harmony and

happiness in life that an ordinary man needs. Maharishisaid from the

mouth of Mareecha, a rakshasa, as RAMAVIGRAHAVANDHARMAHA

(Embodiment of Dharma). Thereby maharishiadvocated to mankind

to cultivate the qualities of Ramaand not that of Ravana. Thus maharishi

has created a great epic and infused various dharmas on various

occasions encouraging the path of Bakthi, Gnana, Karmato pursue theenumerated values of life which are the principal objects of a man are

depicted in Ramascharacter. Many learned people viewed Ramayana

in different perspectives. Some viewed it as Tatvagnanamu. Some

viewed as Knowledge of Mantra Sastramu. Some say it as a holy epic

for recital. However it is an encyclopedia for manifestation of life. It is

a treasure of dharmasfor all times. Thus it has the universal acceptance.

There is a controversy in determining the period ofRamas life

time. Puranassays that there are thirty kalpas. The first among them is

Swethakalpa. In that kalpa, Vyvaswatamanmantrawas the tenth. In thatmanmantraRamawas born at the end of twenty forth mahayuga, and

in the last leg of tretayuga. In Vishnupuranait is said that there will be

one vyasain eachyugaand where as in twenty forth mahayugaValmiki

him self wasvyasa. This version was supported by Horadarpanamand

Koorma-puranam. It is said in Vayupuranam that Kaikasi had three

sons and a daughter. They were Ravana, Kumbhakarna, Vibeshanaand


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Surpanakha. It was also said in that Vayupurna that Ravanawill be

killed by Rama after extinction all his religious excellence. Thissubstantiates that Ramawas born in twenty fourth mahayugaand Valmiki

has written this epic during the life time of Rama. According to Vishnu

dharmotharapurana, Markandayamaharishitells the story of Ramato

King Vraja. Therefore it is inferred that Ramawas born and killed Ravana,

Kumbhakarna, Lava and Kusa were born in Valmiki ashrama and

subsequently Valmiki has written Ramayana, Lava, Kusa read out

Ramayanato Ramaand others. So it is believed that Valmikihas written

the epic Ramayanaduring the life time of Rama.

Valmiki Maharishi :

There are several versions about Valmiki maharishis are in

prevalence. Retnakara spoilt brahminmade friendship with barbarians

in the forest and torturing people who were passing through the forest.

One day Naradamaharishihappened to pass in that way. Took pity on

him and initiated a mantra and advised Penance. While he was

meditating with utmost devotion, went in to an unconscious state. In

course of time ant hill developed over him. After several years again

Naradamaharishi passed that way and noticed the advanced state of

Ratnakarsdevotion. He pitied on him and prayed Indra to pore a heavy

rain so as to melt away the anthill. Since Ratnakarcontinued his penance

inside the anthill he named him as Valmiki(in Sanskrit Valmikammeansan anthill. So he was named Valmiki.) After melting the anthill, maharishi

provoked Retnakar to write the story of Rama. However there is no

relevant authority for this version of story.

Skandapurananarrates a story like this. long ago there lived a

brahminby name Sumatibelonging to Bhrugufamily. His wife is Kausiki.

They had a son by nameAgni Sarma. Sumatitried to teach Vedasto his

son. But he did not show any interest in learning Vedas. However Sumati

married to his son as he attained youth. After some years there was an

acute famine prevailed in the country. As such, Sumaticould not sustain

his family. So he migrated to the forest, built a hermitage and startedliving. In course of timeAgni Sarmadeveloped friendship with a group

of robbers. He used to support the family by robbing the people passing

through the forest.

Agni Sarmahas become a spoilt brahmin. Did not learn Vedas. Now

he has chosen a profession harassing and torturing people. One day a


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group of maharishishappened to travel that way and they fell in the

eyes ofAgni Sarmaand he wanted to kill them to rob their belongings.

Among the maharishis a great saint Atriwas also with them. He

took pity on Agni Sarmaand asked him Oh Agni Sarma! You want to

kill and take away our belongings, we have not done any harm to you.

Is it not a sin to kill others and rob them? Having done such a crimes to

whom you are going to give those belongings? Agni Sarma replied

that I will protect my father, mother and wife. On hearingAgni Sarmas

reply, AtriMaharishi again asked him your people are enjoying the

fruits of your loot. Will they share in your sins also? Go home and

ascertain from them. We shall wait till you come.

Agni Sarmawent home and said to his father, mother, wife I am

robbing the people and protecting you all these years, tell me will you

share my sins? for which they all said you have a responsibility of

protecting father, mother, wife and children. We are not to bother how

you earned it. So we will not share in your sins.Agni Sarmawent back

and told Atrimaharishiwhat his people said to him. He has repented

for all his past sinful acts. Other maharishisalso requestedAtrimaharishi

to shower his kindness onAgni Sarma.Atrimaharishitook pity on him.

ThenAtriinitiated a DhanyaslokatoAgni Sarmacoupled with a mantra

which will eradicate all the sins. Maharishi instructedAgnisarmato sit

under this tree and commence tapasyaimmediately and you will achieve

salvation. All those maharishis went away on their pilgrimage and

returned after thirteen years. On their return journey they happened

to pass that way. They saw an anthill at the place where they suggested

Agni Sarmato do penance. With their divine sight they understood that

Agni Sarma was continuing his penance without any body

consciousness. So an ant hill developed over him.

They removed the anthill and sawAgni Sarmaas a skeleton. There

was nothing in his body except bones and skin. Atrimaharishi wokehim up and had a divine touch with his hands. He opened his eyes and

saw maharishiswith the brilliance of Brahma. Immediately he prostrated

at their feet and said Oh maharishis! With your kind grace, I had the

true wisdom and all my sins were disappeared.Atrimaharishisaid oh

Agni Sarma! With our initiation you have realized the knowledge of


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soul. With that all your sins evaporated and you became pure. While

you were doing tapasyawithout body consciousness, Valmikams

developed over you. Since you continued your tapasyafrom inside the

anthill without consciousness, from now onwards you will be known

as Valmiki. All maharishisblessed and went on their way.

By the grace of God, man will secure a guru. With the grace of a

guru, he will get divinity. ThoughAgni Sarmawas a part of Brahmaby

birth, he became spoilt in association with sinners. For some time due

to the fruits of evil karmasof his previous birth, and lived in the path of

troubling people. After annihilation of evil karmas, he became a

maharishi.

Afterwards he built a hermitage at Kusastalion the banks of river

Tamasaand worshipped lord Siva. He learnt the story of Rama from

Narada. Brahma himself appeared before him and said under his

instructions Saraswathi, the goddess of learning, caused him to speak

and pronounced the sloka through his mouth. Brahma further said to

him, know it well that Rama is an incarnation of SriMahaVishnuand

instructed to write the story of Rama. In a way he had the blessings of

all the trimurthisand completed the epic of Ramayana. The epic consists

of twenty four thousand slokas, hundred episodes and five hundredsargas are divided in to seven chapters. Maharishi advocated the non

duality of Shiva , Kesava wherever a context raised. In Yudha kanda

maharishi says from the mouth of Rama Shiva alone possessed the

treasure of archery and again I held it. Ramayanawas popularly known

as Adikavyam, the first poetical composition. Since then there exists no

other epic in this world literature. That is why it is popularly known as

adikavyam. What we are talking about revolutionized changes such as

Fraternity of mankind, World citizenship, human dignity. Concern for

society and nationalism are appears in Ramayanaevery now and then.

Many people adopted Ramayanaas an epic forparayanam. Some

believe it preaches the knowledge of Siva. Appaiya dekshitulu has

described it as a glory of Siva. Vaishnavasbelieve it as an authority for

the followers of qualified non dualistic and preaches them the way of

worldly life.


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Valmikimaharishidepicted Ramaas an ordinary human being till

the end. In other words he himself must have instructed his own illusion

to surround him. By that he could practice the superior qualities to

preach to the world such as devotion to mother, father,guru, husband,

love to brothers, to protect those who seek refuge and truthfulness.

That is why people will not get tired in reading Ramayana again and

again.

In yudhakandaafter killing Ravanaall devatascame and said to

him you are no other than Sri Maha Vishnu he replied to them

innocently I am Rama, son of Dasaratha. In the same way some

maharishis also recognized him as SriMahaVishnu in bala kanda toyudhakandam. But he believed himself as an ordinary human being.

Thereby not only practices dharma, but also made others also to follow

him.

Ramayanateaches us the sanctity of matrimonial relationship and

reveals how ancient it is. When Ramabroke the bow of Siva, Janaka

requests him to marry his daughter, Sita. But he refused to marry her

unless his father approves it. While Ramawas going to forest, his mother

Kausalyaasks Rama to take her to forest as a cow follows its calf. On

that occasion while consoling her he advises her a chaste wife should

always attain salvation by serving her husband. Similarly Valmiki

maharishidepicted Manadodarischaracter as a chaste and pure woman.

Therefore Ramayana teaches us that love is the most powerful factor

in fastening people. Those who can not love will not hesitate to do any

heinous and cruel acts. So we will have to protect the institution of

marriage and its purity with utmost care. The evil affects were depicted

in the episode of Vali. Sugrivaand his ministers strongly believed that

Valiwas dead. So he married Vailswife with her acceptance. Though it

was an accepted practice in vanaras,Angadacould not digest it. He has

expressed his anguish to Hanumaon the shores of southern sea.

Valmiki maharishi has depicted many good customs in various

occasions in Ramayana. Such as, love to parents, guru and brother.

Then only they can become role models to the younger generations. So

parents are to teach such good traditions to their children. Otherwise

the institution of family system will collapse.


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Sense organs desire comforts. Those comforts can be provided

only with the help of money. But the earning of money should not exceed

its limits. If it exceeds it will produce adverse results. In Ramayana, we

will observe that Rama, Lakshmanaand Baratha valued wealth like a

blade of grass. Thereby they occupied most glorious positions. Kaikeyi

expresses her doubt about the sincerity of Rama going to the forest.

Then Ramasaid Mother! My goal is to live in a righteous path and lead

people in that path. So I give priority only to dharma.Ardhaand Kama

are not my priority. I will lead a munilife in forest. Rama clearly spelled

out his intentions only those who do not give importance alone will be

real munis.

Lakshmanadoubts Barathawhen he went to Mt.Chitrakutawith

an army. Ramasaid to Lakshmana. Brother! The wealth (kingdom) that

comes by killing near and dear is like a food mixed with poison. I will

not even touch such food. These words of Ramareveals how liberated

he was onArdhaand kama.

Ravanaand others considered Ardha and Kamaare the highest

goals in life, so they were all destroyed. Even in these days also, we find

people are living with rakshasasattitude are giving prominence for lust

and wealth. Ramayanawill certainly help such people in leading a life of

comfort and peace. Because the episode of Ramaand Barathawill be

an eye opener to them. Both brothers refused to accept the kingdom to

up keep dharmaand did not give priority for Ardhaand Kama.

Though King Dasaratha and family were blessed with royal

comforts they all underwent physical and mental pressures. Sita says

to Hanumagod will tie a rope around the neck of men and drag some

times in to heavenly comforts and some times in to terrific miseries.

Today men are becoming mentally week. They are not able to

withstand even the slightest grief and resorting either to commit a

murder or committing suicide. If we analyze we will find Ardha andKamaare the main reason and at the same time people are ignorant of

spiritual values. As such they could not pursue goal of perfection. World

is not a bed of roses. This universal fact is to be understood by all and

thus to cultivate the strength of resistance by spiritual practice, by

reciting the morals and dharmaspreached by eminent maharishis like


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Valmiki, who depicted Dasarathasfamily for the benefit of mankind of

all times. Recital of Ramayanawill certainly helps in strengthening

forbearance.

It is defined by our elders that harassing others is a sin and helping

others is punya. So in this kaliyugawe need hot have to perform big

religious karmas like yagnas. It is enough if we resolve to do good to

others in our day to day activities. For which Hanumahimself a living

example in Ramayana. We will not see such a high ranked personality.

We do not find such a person in all the three worlds and at all times.

One has to learn from him, his way of action, his words, self reliance,

courage and faith. Look how exemplary is he?If we can withstand boldly with out any alarm, progress will come

automatically. All comforts can be achieved only through progress.

Unless we are alive we can not see any good. What do any one achieve

by death? by reciting Ramayanaregularly we will come across many

instructions like this. These instructions are universal and for all times.

When Barathawent to Mt.Chitrakootampleading Rama to rule

Ayodhya, Ramanot only politely declined his request but also advised

Baratha the following precautions to become a popular ruler:

Are you driving away the sinister, thieves, wicked and atheistpersons from the country? This will enable you to induce traditional

customs to the people.

Are you keeping a close watch on the judgments pronounced by

your ministers? Sometimes false allegations will be made on the most

superior and righteous persons will be punished. You make a note if

such a pious persons tears fell on the ground, those tears will destroy

the king, his children, his cattle and wealth.

Are the river waters are put to optimum utilization for agriculture?

Are you taking all such precautions for the growth of agriculture?

Does the people are obeying the laws enacted by you? Do you

notice any contempt of your orders? Are you enacting any anti-people

laws?

Are you imposing reasonable taxes or not? Did the revenue

collected is spent for the benefit of the people? That means on


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development and welfare measures in right proportions? Are you taking

precautions to avoid deficit financing? Are you keeping sufficient

reserves in your treasury? Are you punishing innocent? Are the

criminals let off unpunished?

Are you keeping an eye on cow protection and increasing the

cattle wealth?

From this we can understand that how able and popular

administrator Rama is. This piece of advice is not only instructed to

Barathabut rules of all times and all ages.

From the above questions he not only proved to be an ableadministrator, politician but also reveals as a prudent king.

Ramas rule was praised as Ramarajyamnot only because of

the welfare measures but for practicing all dharmasas dictated by Vedas.



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1Kishkinda Kandam

VALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAMVALMIKI RAMAYANAM

BalakandamBalakandamBalakandamBalakandamBalakandam

THE HISTORY OF KING DASARATHA

[This part is taken from Srimadh Ramayanam 1-5 Sargas]

Paramatma desired to take a human form on earth. Devatas,

Maharishisare all anxiously waiting for his appearance on earth. There

are so many royal families on earth. All of them are righteous. However

one must be highly pious and righteous to be blessed with Paramatma

as their son. Such a couple must have donated copiously, performed

many yagnas and fulfilled several religious vows in their previous

births. Such a worthy couple only is eligible for receiving Paramatma as

their son. Such great people lead a totally self less life and do not even

aspire for salvation, though they have performed countless generousand righteous deeds in many lives. The kindness of Paramatmawill be

limitless on such a couple. Since Parmatma himself has made the

smkalpa now, such a royal couple must be living somewhere on earth.

How are we sure that Paramatma takes birth only in a royal

family? Why not he take birth in a brahminfamily? Was he not born as a

son of Jamadagni Maharishi (as Parasurama)? Was he not born as

Vamana in the family of Kasyapa? This is not of much significance for

Paramatma, in what varnahe takes birth. What is more important is

that he should do all the good that he wants to do for the mankind

during his incarnation. Will god respect the caste system?(varnashramas). Bhagavat Geeta quotes Chaturvarnam Mayaa

SrushtamGunakarmaVibhagasaha which implies that the duties of

castes should not be mixed up. That will not do good for the society. The

prestige and reputation of such a family must be on high pedestal for

Paramatma to take birth. Such a family should be glorious, flawless,


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2 Kishkinda Kandam

dedicated to the people and should have the good will of Sadhus and

Maharishis. A country ruled by such family is always pure and free from

famines, epidemics, floods etc.

The Kings of Suryadynasty, such as Manu, Ikshvaaku, Mandhata,

Dileepa, Raghuand many others, are all famous. They are all capable of

ruling the entire Bhoomandalam (earth). They all performed several

yagnas ,chandrayana vratas and donated numerous gifts. They ruled

the country several thousands of years righteously. They all practiced

yoga, lived like sages and reached the heaven aat the end of their life.

They used to be like a Kalpatarufor anyone who comes to them for any

need. They are capable of teaching subtle dharmaseven to Maharishis.In this manner they became reputed in all the three worlds.

[From this what we are to learn is that one should have this nature

of helping others, and practicing the well-established good customs.

They believed that virtues are the back bone for the race. They all had

great control on senses and worldly pleasures. They performed all

virtuous karmasand attained moksha at the end of their lifetime.There

were no athiests or criminals in their country. Their mind was always

fixed on dispassion]Let us examine the histories of those rulers in that

family.

In the beginning this dynasty was called as Kakutsyas. After

Raghu became the King, the family name was popularly known as

Raguvamsam. The King Raghuperformed Viswagit Yaga, and he gifted

away all his wealth to the rithviks. But, as is the custom, he retained the

throne, the white umbrella and the chaamaramas symbolic for a King.

He renounced all pleasures and spent the revenue collected from

people for their welfare measures. Since then, he slept on the floor and

ate food in mud vessels. Thus he became a model to his people and

made them live a righteous life. He practiced dandaneetias stipulated in

scriptures. Thus he became glorious in this world and attained heavenafter his lifetime.

King Dasarathawas born in Raghudynasty and was the son of

King Aja. Dasarathas history was not revealed in Ramayana in full.

Hence let us know more about him before we proceed to learn the

history of SriRama.


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3Kishkinda Kandam

We do not find a flawless person in this world except god. We find

some mistake or other at different times, in individuals. While

considering the virtuous qualities of King Dasaratha,small and sundry

short comings need to be ignored. He ruled for such a long period of

over 60,000 years. One may doubt that any King can rule for so many

years on earth? In general, the longevity of humans is taken as fixed as

127 years. The science of astrology says. Sampaarhtirdhvighna

ManujakarinaamPanchachaNisaaha Then some may question why

elders are blessing as Satamaanam Bhavati Here Satam means

many but not exactly hundred. Even in Bhruhajjatakam also it was said

about the longevity as follows Guru sasi sahite Kuleeralagne

Sasitanaye Bhruguje Cha Kendrayaate; Bhava ripu sahajopa

gaischa Seshairamitha mihaayur anukramaavvinaassyaat From

this we are to understand that Dasaratha falls under the category of

unlimited years of longevity. In Tretayuga, the general longevity was

300 years, in Dwaparayuga, the longevity was 200 years and in

Kaliyuga, it is 100 years. However, here and there are one or two

persons live for a long time. This extraordinary longevity of life usually

depends upon the planetary position at the time of birth.

According to yoga sastra, a yogi (Or Sadhaka) can live for long

years (even Kalpas) and they attain many super natural powers, withthe help of yoga. Yogis stay unmoving for any number of years

envisioning the Paramatma in the form of a Nischala Jyothi. The

achievements possible with Yoga sadhana are detailed in Patanjali Yoga

sutras. Let us see the examples below :

Parinama traya Samyamaath atheetha anaagata jnanam.

By practicing Dhaarana, Dhyana and Samadhi, all the three

simultaneously, yogis get into Samyama and achieve extra-sensory

(super natural) knowledge and powers.

If the mind is concentrated on particular nerve centres andparticular chakras, Sadhaka achieves super natural powers, as stated in

Patanjali Yoga Sutra 12-31. The yogis who practiced lambikaa and

reltedyogascan live under waters comfortably for any amount of time.

We presume Duryodhanamust have practiced thisyogaand lived in a

lake (after the battle of Kurukshetra). Some yogis experience


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4 Kishkinda Kandam

Paramatma in their heart and remain still like a stone; birds think of

him as a stone. While tears flow from their eyes, birds mistake the same

as rain water and drink. Such Yogis have transcended the need to

perform daily rituals like sandhya vandanam, homas etc., long back.

They are always experiencing Paramatmain in their heart as Nischala

Jyothi and live several thousands of years. Hence the normal longevity

of ordinary persons must not be compared with such yogis. Who can

convince people who question even the existence ofyoga sastra itself?

Those who perform number of virtuous actions attain Chittasuddhi.

Unless one attains Chittasuddhi, onecannot have the vision of god. The

purpose of all karmas are to realize Paramatma. Hence performing

virtuous acts means worshipping Paramatma. All karmas that weperform are the forms of Paramatma only. If karmas are performed

with such a sadbudhi ( pure mind) people will experience the good

results of their actions, otherwise they will receive very low results.

Bhagavat Geeta also teaches the same in the following sloka :

Karmanassukrutasyaahussattvikam Nirmalam Phalam;

Rajasastu Phalam Duhkham, ajnanam Tamasah Phalam.

Further theyoga sastrareveals, that if a Yoga sadhaka worships

Para Devata in the form of Kundalini and washes his body with her

Padodakam(water flowing at her feet),he will gets the ability to practiceyogawithout any interruptions.

Yogiscan live any number of years in this manner, by practicing

yoga sutras. Since we do not see such greatyogi in our midst, in these

days, we get doubts on theyoga sastra. Infact, even today, greatyogis,

who have total sense-control, are practicingyogaand living in the slopes

of Himalayas and its dense forests. They will never come in our midst

for the sake of money.

King Dasaratharuled his country for several thousands of years.

He enjoyed all regal pleasures and made his people also to enjoy a

happy and pleasant life. Such Kings are applauded as Rajanvamta.

THE TIMING OF RAMAYANA

Though Ramashistory is cited in many other epics and Puranas

also, only in Ramayana do we find Ramas history in full. Therefore, let

us discuss and analyze from ValmikiRamayanaitself.


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5Kishkinda Kandam

Some people say that Valmikihas written Ramayanaeven before

the birth of Rama. Some others say , he wrote it during the lifetime of

Rama. Some other people say that there are so many Ramayanasand

each one of them was written stories as the writers liked and then

named after Valmiki. That is why we find many contradictions between

any one Ramayanaand another.

Some people say that Ramamay be a great person among people

of his time but it is needless to call him an incarnation of god. Rama

might have wedded only one wife, remained completely faithful to her

and adopted Yeka Patni Vrat as his ideal! He might be an ideal and

obedient son to his father! He might have remained completely truthfulat all times! Can we call him God, simply because of all these qualities?

If we search diligently, we may find a few such persons who remain

wedded and faithful to just one wife, who are obedient to their father

and who are highly truthful. Hence we cannot call all of them as god.

However they agree that Krishnais an incarnation but not Rama. Hence

let us give a fitting reply and keep them in silence.

The story of Ramaand its poet Valmikifind references in several

Puranas. Therefore Puranasand Ithihasashave accepted Ramayanaand

Valmiki. Even in Bhagavatamand Mahabharatamthere are references

to Ramas story. In Ananda Ramayanam, Adhyatma Ramayanam andBrahmanda Puranam,we find the story of Rama. We definitely find the

Ramayana of Valmiki with us. There may be small differences in

narrating the story, but all of them do support the Ramayana and

Valmiki. Kaalam or time is indivisible, creation is beginningless,

pralayams (deluge)are several. In each Pralayam and the creation that

follows pralayam, there might be some differences and changes, but

there will not be change in the major aspects. Veda teaches that

Dhaataa Yadhapoorva Masrujat.

In each creation (after pralayam) Paramatma will manifest in

several forms. Hence there will be some deviations in each of hisincarnations on earth. One may therefore question, whether, in each

Tretayuga,Ramawill incarnate? We cant say this, because each yuga

and itsyuga dharmaswill keep on changing.

In eachyuga, cruel rakshasaslike Ravanatake birth. To reduce the

burden on earth, battles are therefore inevitable. In each battle there


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7Kishkinda Kandam

same from Narada? These doubts may arise in the readers. The

explanation is simple.

1. Valmiki Maharishiis a great tapasviand aJnani. If he wants he

could have known about Rama by himself with the power of his

tapasya. But such jnanis do not waste their tapasyaindiscriminately on

such matters.

2. On seeing Narada he must have been incquisitive to know

about a king with the above virtuous qualities. This was also a internal

provocation by Brahma.

3. For the benefit of people, Brahmamust have provoked Naradato sow the seeds of Ramas story in Valmiki.

Valmiki went to river Tamasawith his disciple Barathwaja and

said My son! Look at the waters in this part of the river! These are as

pure as the heart of a virtuous person. I will take bath here before the

sun sets. Bring my clothes and kalasam. You also take bath here.

Valmiki Maharishi was a great tapasvi. He has powers to bless

with great boons or hand down great curses. While he was taking bath

in the river he saw two kraunchabirds roaming freely. While they were

flying thus, a hunter killed the male bird with an arrow, even as Valmikiwas looking at them. At the death of her companion, the female bird

cried bitterly. This made the maharishis heart melt with pity. He

became angry with the hunter and took deep pity on the female bird. At

that time, quite unconsciously, the following Sloka came out of

Valmikis mouth.

Maa Nishada Pratishtaam Twamagamassaaswteessamah;

Yatkrauncha midhunath, ekamavadheeh Kaama Mohitam

Maharishi was astonished how he could spell out such a

melodious Sloka. He kept on remembering the sloka, even after he wentback to his cottage. As he was deeply thinking of the sloka, Lord Brahma

appeared before him and said oh Maharishi! With my permission,

Goodess Saraswati stood on your tongue and made you spell out that

Sloka. He also instructed him to write the story of Ramaas narrated by

Narada Maharishiand disappeared.


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8 Kishkinda Kandam

Valmikiremembered the story narrated by Narada Maharishibut

determined to write the fuller details from the outlines of Ramayana.

He decided not want to give importance for ardhaand kaama. But he

wanted to give more prominence to dharma and moksha. The story

after the coronation of Ramawas arranged in Uttara Khandam. Thus, it

is clear that Valmikihas written Ramayanaduring the lifetime of Rama.

THE QUALITIES OF SRI RAMA

Rama has re-established virtuous qualities such as truthfulness,

obedience to the father, affection towards the brothers and public

welfare as the first duty of a king. He proved himself an ideal king. He

stood as a model for all other kings on earth. He protected dharmaand

virtuous people(sadhus). He made people to understand how even

kings must respect any criticism from the public. To make people

understand its importance, because of public criticism, he even sent

Sitato the forest though she was really chaste and was purified byAgni.

The above virtuous qualities establish that Rama incarnated himself

only to establish dharma. Lord Krishna also said in Geeta Dharma

SamsthzapanarthayaSambhavaami Yuge Yuge.

TYPICAL ARGUMENTS

Some people raise a critcism that Sita was not the only wife ofRamabut he had many other wives also. They quote Sundara Khandam

- sarga 15 - Sloka 14. While Sita was in the captivity of Ravana, the

rakshasawoman forced her to marry Ravanaand threatened to kill her

if she doesnt listen to them. Ravanaalso gave her two months time to

make up her mind to marry him. The raakshasa women began

threatening that they will kill and eat her. In her distress and in a state

of helplessness she remembered her memories of Rama. At that time

she lost her hopes (that Ramamay not come to protect her) and thought

in herself oh Rama! I am going to get killed here. After sometime you

will fulfill the promise you made to your father and go back toAyodhya.You will get coronated and become a king. After becoming kin,g many

broad eyed women will come to marry you and you enjoy with them.

Valmiki Maharishiwanted to reveal to the world the mind of a woman

who was in deep distress and sure of her death. No woman will expect

that her husband also will die with her.


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9Kishkinda Kandam

Valmikihas written this epic with the blessings of Brahmaduring

the lifetime of Rama. In this great epic there are 24,000 Slokas, 500

sargasand 6 kandams. In this epic it was narrated up to coronation of

Rama. The seventh Kandam is known as Uttara Kandam. Again this

Uttara Kandamwas divided into two. 1. Pre Aswamedha Yaga2. Post

Aswamedha Yaga. In the postAswamedha Yaga, Bhoodeviabsorbs Sita

Deviinto her fold and disappears.

Tadha Sargasataan Panchashat kaandani Tadhottaram

Krutvaasi Tanmahaa prajjnassa Bhavishyam Sahottaram

Valmiki Maharishi has completed this epic and looked for

someone who can memorise, sing and propagate the epic. He found twoboys, Lava and Kusa, who are under his care in his own tapovana, as

suitable for the purpose. They had already studied Vedas and

Vedangaas. Vedopabrumhanaardhaaya i.e.,to explain Vedas very

clearly, he had accepted them as his disciples. He explained the story of

Rama, the story of his wife, Sita (Krutsnm Seetaayaascharitam

Mahat), the story of Ravanas killingand so on and taught the full epic

of Ramayana to the two boys. Both the boys had not only learnt the story

but also recited it melodiously. They followed all thepramanasof music

such as Trisrama, Chaturasrama, Misramaetc. On the gesticulation side,

they could express all the feelings of Srungara, Karunya, hasya, Veera,

Bhayanaka on appropriate occasions. They both learnt all the

intricacies of acting in drama format. Since they both were born to

Rama, their appearance was also so handsome and looked like Bimba

and Pratibimbas. In melody and music they have exceededgandharvas.

They recited Ramayana before Maharishis, brahmins and sadhus in

surrounding tapovanas. While Ramawas performingAswamedha Yaga,

lava and kusa entertained munis, rithviks, Brahmins and others while

they were relaxing after their Yajna duties, with their rendition of

Ramayana Slokas and became very popular. To encourage those boys,

Maharishis and brahmins gave them gifts such as kalasam, valkalas,

krishnajanam and such other articles and also blessed them with full

longevity of life. Wherever a few people gathered, the boys used to

recite Ramayanam and made them happy. Thus they became popular

among the visitors in the yagnavatika. This news spread and reached

Rama. Rama arranged a concert before his brothers, ministers,


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10 Kishkinda Kandam

subordinate kings and scholars and made the boys to perform before

all. All the audience praised the boys with thousand mouths.

THE CIRCUMSTANCES INAYODHYA

[This part is taken from 4,5,6 and 7 Sargas]

The Brahmanas who lived in Ayodhyawere well versed in Vedas

and other Sastras. King Dasaratha was liked by both such jnanis and

common people, who lived in cities and villages also and worshipped

him like god. He ruled in a righteous way and performed manyyagnas.

He had good control on senses and was a truthful person.He had won

many battles with valour. Thus he had many virtuous qualities.There were no poor people inAyodhyaand possessed land, herds

of cows, gold and many other asserts. There was not even a single

landless person in his country. People of all the three varnas used to

perform daily rituals such as agnihotra, japa, dhyanam, sandhya

vandhanam etc. There were no atheists or untruthful and jealous

persons. All people pursued the prescribed Dharmic goal of the four

Purusharthas. People used to ride on elephants, horses, chariots as a

mode of transport.

ADMINISTRATION INAYODHYA

Dasaratha had eight ministers. All of them were scholars,

statemen and able administrators. They were extremely skilled in

understanding others minds. They always worked for the well-being of

the king. Jayantha, Jaya, Siddhartha, Arthasadhaka, Ashoka,

Mantrasaala, Sumantra are the ministers. Apart from these

ministers,Vasista, Vamadeva, Suyagna, Jaabali, Kaasyapa, Gowthama,

Markendeya, Dheerghayu and katyayana also served the king as his

priests cum ministers.

They used to get information from the spies within and outsidethe countries. They never left a culprit go unpunished but no innocent

was ever punished. Even they used to punish even their own sons,

strictly as per dandaneeti. Since all the ministers were righteous and

following the path of dharmathere were no criminals in the country. In

this manner the glory of king Dasarathareached all the three worlds.


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11Kishkinda Kandam

PUTRAKAAMESHTI YAGA

[This part is taken from 8thSarga]

King Dasaratha ruled the country in a righteous way for several

thousands of years. He performed severe tapasyas and severalyagas.

Yet, he did not have children. One day he announced to his council of

ministers that he intended to perform Aswamedha Yaga. He said to

Vasista and other ministers Oh, great sages! I did many yagas and

religious vows. I performed tapasya too. Still I did not beget children, so

I want to performAswamedha Yaga.Please make all arrangements for

successful conduct of this Yagna by me.

The ministers were happy and said oh king! Please do performthe Aswamedha Yaga which will bring you all good tidings. The

Maharshis told him, oh king! Your desire is appropriate and virtuous.

You will certainly have children. Ee will make all preparatrions. You

kindly release the sacrificial horse. Your desire will fructify. The king

went to his palace and informed his queens about his decision to

performyagaseeking children.

Vasista Maharishi fixed the Adhvarya and other rithviks for the

yaga. He selected the sight for the yaga on the northern side of river

Sarayu. Townships were built to accommodate subordinate kings andother guests to witness theyaga.

THE STORY OF RUSHYASRUNGA

[This part is taken from 9,10 and 11 Sarga]

Sumantra was the minister and also the charioteer of King

dasaratha. He said to the king.

Sumantra:

Oh king! Long ago I attended a conference of Maharishis. There

Sanatkumara, the rishi who can visualize both past and future toldtheMaharishisabout how you can beget children, as follows :

Vibhanda Maharishiwill have a son by name Rushyasrunga. He

will live in the forest serving his father, without knowing anything of

the outside world,. Unexpectedly his Brahmacharya breaks, and he

becomes agruhasta. Even then, Rushyasrungaused to take care of the


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12 Kishkinda Kandam

agnihotra and other services to his father, observing Brahmacharya.

His Brahmacharyawas in two ways. First is one, followed , wearing the

Krishnajinam. Second is the one followed after marriage. In those days

King Romapaada was ruling the country in a unrighteous way. As a

result, his country did not have rains for several years and suffered big

famine. At last he called the Brahmin pundits and asked them to suggest

the expiatory acts needed for getting rains. Those brahmins advised

him oh king! Vibhanda had a son by name Rushyasrunga. If you can

bring him to our country rains will come. Hence you must bring him

immediately. As soon as he comes, you give your daughter in marriage

to him, so that he will remain here and our country will get rains.

On the advice of brahmins he made arrangements to bring

Rushyasrungato his country. Ministers consulted the Brahmin pundits

and planned to send some beautiful prostitutes to bring Rushyasrunga

to their country. They succeeded in bringing Rushyasrunga. As soon as

he set foot in their country, rains flooded the country. Afterwards, the

king gave his daughter Santadevi in marriage to Rushyasrunga and

requested him to live in his country.

Oh King Dasaratha ! In that conference, Sanatkumarafurther said

as follows.

In some future time, King Dasaratha will be born in Ragu

Vamsam. He will have friendship with the king of Anga, by name,

Romapaada. He will give his daughter, Santa, in marriage to

Rushyasrunga. King Dasarathawill perform a Putrakaameshti Yagato

beget sons. Rushyasrungawill go to the yaga along with his wife, Santa,

and will ensure its successful completion. After theyaga, Dasarathawill

have four sons. O King, I heard all this in Krutayuga. So, believe my

words, go toAngadesamand bring Rushyasrungaand perform theyaga.

King Dasarathaconsulted Vasista Maharishiand other ministers.

Vasista Maharishi said that Sanatkumaras words will never becomeuntrue and therefore, Dasaratha must go to Rushyasrunga and bring

him to perform theyaga. Dasarathawent to Romapaadawith his priest

Vasista Maharishiand requested Rushyasrungato come and assist him

in executing the yaga. Rushyasrunga agreed to be his priest. While

Rushyasrungawas inAyodhyathey observed many auspicious omens.


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13Kishkinda Kandam

ASWAMEDHA YAGA

[This part is taken from 12,13 and 14 Sargas]

Vasistaand other rithviksagreed to work under the guidance of

Rushyasrunga. Sumantrawent to invite all the distinguished guests to

witness the yaga. All the kings came and offered valuable gifts to King

Dasaratha. Vasista Maharishi took care of procuring all the materials

and general supervision for theyaga. One day Vasistawent and said oh

king! All arrangements are made, therefore, please come now with your

queens to perform theyagna. The king, Rushyasrunga and all others

reached yagnavatika.

The sacrificial horse returned to theyagnavatika after one year.

During that period Rushyasrunga and other rithviks completed all the

daily rituals connected with the Yagna. Theyagnavatikawas built in the

form of Garuda. The traditional Yupa pillars were erected. The

sacrificial horse was also brought there.

Kausalya Devi went round the yagnashva. Other queens also

followed her. She took three golden pins and pierced the body of the

horse with them as laid down in the Sastras. That night Kausalya Devi

slept in yagnavatika with sacrificial horse. Next day King Dasaratha

gave gifts as directed in scriptures.

As prescribed in the rules of this Ygna, Dasarathagifted Kausalya

Devi to the hota, his maid toAdhvarya and hismistress to Udghaata and

another maid to Brahma. Later they sold all the women back to the king

and took some gold, cows and valuables in return.Adhvaryastook out a

substance called vapathuma from the naval of the yagaswa,

performed vapohoma into the sacred fire as an oblation. The king and

the queens inhaled that smoke. In the same manner other parts of the

sacrificial horse were also offered as oblations. This Aswamedha was

completed in three days.

As dictated by in sastras, the king donated the portion on the

eastern part of his kingdom to the hota; that on the western part to

Adhvarya; that on the southern part to Brahma and the one onthe

northern part to Udghaata. The rithviks who received the four parts of

kingdom were said oh king! You are a kshatryaborn to rule this land.


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14 Kishkinda Kandam

We are brahmins born for Vedadhyayanam. Hence you give us some

money as mark of its price and take back to your kingdom. We cannot

evaluate your kingdom, give us some money as a token and take back

your kingdom.

The king was happy and donated them gold, land, cows and other

valuables. After sometime, the king requested RushyasrungaOh pious

brahmin!I have no sons to rule this country and to continue my family

line. Hence you suggest ayagna for me to get sons. Rushyasrungawas

pleased with his request and said Oh king! Your desire is righteous. I

will arrange for ayagnafor your purpose. With that, you will have four

sons.

DEVATASPRAYER TO LORD VISHNU


Rushyasrunga assured King Dasaratha that he would perform

Putrakaameshti Yagna. He thought well and decided to do a yagna in the

Adharvasirassu chapter in Vedas.He learnt from the power of his

yoga that the king could get sons by performing a specific Yagna. He

remembered and meditated on the presiding deities of each Mantra

with their powerful mantras. Each mantra in its root word (called

beejam) has its presiding deity. The Meditation on the Deity will sentsignals to the Deity through those mantras. If the devotee is not

dedicated and his concentration is not pure, then, the deity will not

respond. Since Rushyasrunga had greatyoga siddhi the deity responded

to him very easily.

PAAYASA PRADANAM

[This chapter is taken from 16thand 17thSargas]

The queens of Dasarathabecome pregnant:

Lord Vishnusaid Oh devatas! Brahmahas given numerous boonsto Ravana. So he cannot be killed by anyone other than a human. Hence

I have decided to take birth in a human form in the house of King

Dasaratha.

Incidentally Dasarathaalso completed his Putrakaameshti Yaga.

From the homagundam, a highly lustrous bhoota came out with a


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15Kishkinda Kandam

golden bowl containingpaayasam. It spoke toDasarathathus: oh king!

I am the servant of Prajapati. I have brought this bowl of Payasam,gifted

by the Devatas. Pleae give this to your dharma patnis. You will beget

sons through them. King Dasarathatook that bowl ofpaayasamwent

to the palace gave the same to his queens. He gave half of thepaayasam

to Kausalya;from the remaining half, he gave half of it to Sumitra; and

from the remaining half, he gave half to Kaikeyi; then, he gave the

balance part of payasam,again to Sumitra. After sometime all the three

queens became pregnant.

DEVATASGAVE BIRTH TO VANARAS:

Brahma said Oh devatas! Lord Vishnu takes human form to kill

rakshasasand to protect sadhus. He will now take birth as a son of King

Dasaratha. You all know sorcery and other super human tricks to fight

battles. Hence you also give birth to sons with your valour through

apsarasand gandharva women. They all will deliver vanaras. As per

the orders of Brahma all devatas gave birth to various vanaras who

were valorous and strong. They are as huge as a mountains.

Jambavanta, the bear king, was born from the face of Brahma. Vali was

born to Indra. Sugreevawas born to Sun. Hanumawas born to vayu. In

this manner several valorous vanaraswere born for all devatas.

THE INCORONATION OF RAMA


King Dasaratha was living happily with his queens. One year

passed after the successful completion of the Ygna. In the month of

chaitram, on the day of navami with the star of punarvasu, when five

planets were in the state of ascendancy, Sri Rama was born, as the full

manifestation of Lord Vishnu. Kausalyawas brightly shining like Aditi,

who had given birth to Lord Vishnuin the earlieryugas.

Lord Vishnu took birth with one fourth of his amsain the womb of

Kaikeyi as Bharata. After him Lakshmana and Satrugna were born to

Sumitra.

The King Dasaratha named his sons in consultation with the

astrologers based on their planetary positions. He gave extensive

donations to brahminsby way of cows, gold and land. King Dasaratha


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16 Kishkinda Kandam

named his eldest son as Ramasince he pleases all people. He named the

second son as Bharata tne one who bears the burden of the kingdom.

He named the third son as Lakshmana, the one who shines with great

wealth or Lakshmi. He named the fourth boy as Satrughna, the one who

will be the killer of enemies.

All the four princess were put up in agurukulamand were taught

Vedas, Sastras in addition to archery and other martial arts. From

childhood, Lakshmana was closely attached to Rama. He used to do

everything to please Rama like his alterego, his external prana, and

Rame also treated Lakshmana in the same way. In the same way

Satrugna was closely attached to Bharata.In course of time the princes became youths in age and King

Dasaratha was very much delightful, looking at their beautiful form.

Dasaratha was therefore thinking of their marriages. One day,when he

was thinking so, his guards (doorkeepers) came and said that

Viswamitra Maharishi has come to see the king. King Dasarathawent

along with his priests and ministers and received the Maharishi.

He worshipped the Maharishi with traditional honors and seated

him on a suitable throne and said to him Oh Maharishi! With your

presence, my country has become pure. Kindly order me on what I cando for you. I shall obey your orders however difficult it may be.

VISWAMITRAWANTS RAMATO GO WITH HIM


Viswamitra said Oh illustrous king Dasaratha! You are born in

the famous Ikshvahu family line. Your words are befitting your family

prestige. You are always associated with Vasista, you words are so soft ,

proper and filled with respect.

Oh king! I have commenced a yaga to attain a siddhi. Once I

coomenced theyaga, I must maintain silence and leave anger totally. AsI cannot invoke anger and cursem anyone, two raakshasas by name

Maaricha and Subaahu are spoiling my yaga. As a result the yaga

remained unfinished since several years.

Rama and Lakshmana are quiet young, truthful, pure and

valorous. You send them with me without any fear. You are thinking


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17Kishkinda Kandam

Ramais your son but you do not know who he is! We, Maharishis alone

know who Ramais. You believe my words and send them with me. You

take advice from your priest Vasistaand others. If they object you need

not send them with me.

Oh king! If you want to protect dharma, if you want your glory is to

remain immortal, please send Ramawith me. On hearing Viswamitras

words, Dasaratha shivered with fear and grief.

THE GRIEF OF KING DASARATHA


Dasaratha said Oh Viswamitra Maharishi! Rama has not even

completed sixteen years. He did not have the experience of fighting

battles. The raakshasas are very cruel and do deceptive battles. Instead

of Rama, I will come with all of my army. After performing

Putrakaameshti Yaga, I begot this boy as my son at my very late age.

Hence I request you not to insist to send Rama.

On hearing Dasarathas words, Viswamitra became furious and

said Oh king! There is a raaksasa king by name Ravana, who belongs to

the Paulastyafamily line and is son of Visravasu. He is known for doing

evil acts. He will not do them by himself. He will encourage raakshasasand gives obstacles for yagnas of tapasvis. Under him there are two

raakshasasby name Maareechaand Subaahu who are spoiling myyaga.

Rama alone is capable of killing these evil raakshasas. I do not want

either your help or your armys help. If you have faith in me, you send

Rama. You yourself offered me that you will do anything that I want,

even before I asked you. Now you are going back from your words. It

will not enhance the prestige of your family line.

VASISTA TEACHES TO DASARATHA

[This chapter is taken from 21st

Sarga]Viswamitra said, Those who respect dharma of his caste, their

presiding deity, honour of their caste, such people will get all glories.

Raghuvamsamis known for upholding dharma. You alone violated the

family tradition. You yourself promised me that you will give whatever

I want. Now you are going back from your word. By this, You will only


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18 Kishkinda Kandam

spoil your family prestige of Raghu dynasty. You be comfortable with

your wife and children. I will go back the way in which I came.

Vasistaunderstood the fury of Viswamitra. He thought he should

give appropriate advice to the king and said Oh king! You are born in

the family of Ikshvaku. You know all dharmas. You are valorous and

virtuous. You are truthful. Why are you breaking your word which is

not good for you. Oh king! You leave all your fears about Rama. Though

he was not trained in astraand sastras, no harm will happen to Rama as

long as Viswamitra is by his side. Raakshasas cannot do any harm to

Rama. He protects Rama as agni is protecting nector. Viswamitrais the

embodiment of dharma. He is far superior even among the valorous. Heis a great tapasviand the treasure house of wisdom. He is in possession

of several sastras and astras. He knows all martial arts. Jaya and

Suprabha, the two daughters of Daksha Prajapati married Bhrusasvu.

Jaya gave birth to fifty sons and Suprabha gave birth to another fifty

sons. All those hundred sons became sastras and astras. The sons of

Jayaare known as Vijaya. The sons of Suprabha are known as killers.

Sastrameans which will injuries the enemy.Astrammeans that which

kills the enemies. Viswamitraperformed a great tapasyaon Lord Siva

and possessed all those sastras and astras. All of them are in his

possession. Not only that, he himself has created many astras. He wantsto do good to Rama. Hence you do not hesitate to send Ramawith him.

RAMA, LAKSHMANAFOLLOW VISWAMITRA

[This part is taken from 22ndSarga]

King Dasaratha was convinced and himself went and brought

Rama and Lakshmana and asked them to go with Viswamitra. While

Viswamitra was going ahead Rama and Lakshmana followed him. As

they reached the banks of river Sarayu, Viswamitra asked them Oh

Princes! You take a bath in the river, perform achamanam ( a prayer)

and come back. I will teach you the Bala,Athibala mantras (Skills). With

the power of these mantras,you will remain tireless during the travel.

Fever and such other ailments will not touch you. Eventhough you are

in deep sleep, your enemies cannot do any harm to you. With the power

of this mantra there will be no equals or superior to you in beauty,

knowledge, vigour and wisdom.


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20 Kishkinda Kandam

this river was born from a Saras (lake), the river is named as Sarayu.

That Sarayu River is joining the river Ganges as its undercurrent here.

That is why you are hearing violent sounds. This is the joining place of

river Ganga and Sarayu. You both offer salutations to this Ganga-

Sarayu Sangamam.

After a long distance passed, Ramaasked oh Maharishi! We have

passed a long distance from Ganga-Sarayu Sangamam. All these forest

areas are found to be uninhabited by any humans. The animals are also

cruel and ferocious. Why?

Maharishi said Rama! Long ago Indra suffered from the sin of

Brahmahatyaafter killing Vrutrasura. Devatas and Maharishisbroughtsacred waters from various rivers and did abhishekam with mantras to

the Indra. With those mantras all the impurities of Indrawere washed

off into the earth. Indra was therefore pleaser with the land and blessed

it to develop into two countries with great wealth. He named them as

Maladamu, Karoosamu.

With the blessings of Indra both the countries became fertile and

people lived happily. After sometime a yakshini by name Tataka

entered this place. She married Sundha and had a son by name

Maareecha who was as valorous as Indra. Ever since Tataka enteredthis land it started eating all the people here. People were afraid of her

and migrated to various other countries. Since then this land has

become uninhabited. Rama! When she attacks us you kill her. I will tell

you her background.

THE BIRTH OF TATAKA

Long ago a Yaksha by name Suketu did tapasya meditating on

Brahma. Brahma was pleased and asked him What do you want?

Suketuasked for a Child. Brahmablessed him with a daughter with the

strength of thousand elephants and disappeared. When she attainedyouth, Suketugave her in marriage to Sundu. They had a son by name

Maareecha. One day Sundhucame under the anger and fury ofAgastya

Maharishi and died. Tataka and Maareecha were both angry on

Maharishi and attacked to kill him. Maharishi cursed them to become

rakshasas with an ugly form. Since then Mareecha and Tataka were

killing the people in these countries. Oh Rama! You dont hesitate to kill


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21Kishkinda Kandam

her because she is a woman. Even a woman whocdoes harm to cows

and brahminsshould be killed. So you take my word and kill her in the

interest of the people.

THE KILLING OF TATAKA:

Rama said Maharishi! My father ordered me to obey your

instructions. Hence I will kill Tataka. When Maharishi, Rama and

Lakshmana were walking, Rama twanged his bow. Tataka heard the

twanging and raised her head and saw who he is that disturbed her. In

an invisible form she started a deceptive war throwing boulders, trees

etc on them. Ramacould not find her anywhere. Hence he the power of

Sabdavedhi and released an arrow straight into her chest and killed her.

VISWAMITRAGAVE DIVINE ASTRAS

[This part is taken from 27, 28, 29, 30 Sargas]

Viswamitraasked Rama to take a bath, come and sit facing East.

Then, the Maharishi asked Rama to receive from him the following

astras. Dharma Chakra, Kaala Chakra, Vishnu Chakra, Indrastras,

Vajrastras, Paramasivas Soolam, Brahma Sironamakastra,

aisheekastra, Brahmastra, Narayanastra, painakaastra, Vaidyaadha-

raastra and many other astras.Also, Viswamitra gave two divine clubs called Modaki andSikhari;

and two great lighting weapons called Sushkam and Ardhram;a divine

sword called nandana and so on. He initiated many astras in this

manner.

As Viswamitrarecited mantras, Ramatook possession of all those

astras. All those astradevatasstood before Ramawith folded hands and

said oh Rama! We are all your servants. You order us. Ramatouched

them all and said You all remain in my mind and come whenever I

want.SOME MOREASTRAS

Viswamitra gave all the astras of the sons of Bhrusaswu. Rama

received them all. Some of those astra devatas looked like burning

flame. Some are like thick smoke. Some are as bright as sun. All those

astras saluted Ramaand said We are all your servants. Ramaordered


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22 Kishkinda Kandam

them to remain in his mind always but can remain free unitl he calls

them.Astradevatas took leave from Ramaand disappeared. From there

Viswamitra, Rama, Lakshmana traveled through several forests,

mountains and reached a tapovanam. Many Maharishis were doing

tapasya. Rama asked Whose ashramais this?

SIDHASHRAMA:

Viswamitra said oh Rama! Long ago Kasyapa Maharishi did

tapasyaand attained siddhi here. That is why this tapovanamis called as

Siddhashrama. Lord Vishnuwas born on earth in the form of Vamana

and did tapasya in this ashrama. In those days, Bali Chakravarti

defeated Indra and became the king of the heaven. After some time Bali

Chakravartistarted performing ayagna. At that time, devatasrequested

Lord Vishnu and prayed oh Lord! You are formless. You areAnanta. You

areAnaadi. You are the superior to all. We are all saluting to you.

Oh deva! Bali Chakravarti is performing a yagna. He was

worshipping brahmins like god. Whatever gifts they are asking he is

giving them. He dislodged all of us [devatas] from the heaven. Now we

have become homeless. Hence you please punish Baliand give us back

our kingdom. At the same time Kasyapawas doing tapasyawith his wife

Aditi meditating on Vishnu. Lord Vishnu was pleased and appearedbefore them. They prayed Lord Vishnu oh Yagneshwara! Oh Yagna

Purusha! Mangaladhari! Atchuta! We prostrate before you and seek

your blessings.

Lord Vishnuwas pleased and said oh Aditi, Kasyapa! I am aware

that rakshasas took away the kingdom of your son. Rakshasas are

presently having excessive strength. All the more they have the

blessings of their guru Sukracharya. At this moment you cannot win

them by a war. You prayed for my blessings ; which will not go waste;

Nobody is equal or superior to me. Hence to satisfy your desire I myself

will take birth as your son and make Indraas the king of heaven. This isa divine secret. On an auspicious day Lord Vishnu was born in the

womb ofAditias Vamana.

After some time, Balichakravarti started performingAswamedha

Yaga on the banks of Narmada River under the supervision of

Sukracharya. At that time Vamanaas a young brahmacharientered the


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23Kishkinda Kandam

yagnavatika. Balichakravarti was fascinated by looking at his luster. He

worshipped him and requested Oh Great Brahmin! I became pure by

washing your feet. You order me what you want and, as a servant, will

carry out the same.

Vamanaasked him a land of three feet and Bali promosed to give

him that. Vamana occupied all the three lokas, fastened Bali

Chakravarti and made Indra as the king of heaven again and gave

Paataala loka to Bali Chakravarti to be its king. Oh Rama! Long ago

Vamanadid tapasya here. Because of my Bhakti towards Vishnu, I have

now stepped into this pious ashrama. In a way it is your own ashrama.

Since I am your devotee, this also belongs to me.

On seeing Viswamitra, Rama andLakshmana, all the Maharishisof

those tapovanas came to receive them with great happiness. Next

morning after completing their daily rituals, Viswamitra entered into

Yagna Deeksha.

RAMA PROTECTS YAGA:

Rama asked Oh Maharishis! You tell me when I have to kill

rakshasas?

The Maharishis said Oh Rama! Viswamitrahas dedicated to the

Yagna and will observe silence. From now onwards, you have to guard

this Yagna for six days and six nights.Rama, Lakshmanaguarded theyagnavatikaday and night for five

days. On the sixth day, huge flames arose in theyagnavatika where the

rithviks were sitting. This is an indication that in a short while,

Maareecha and Subahuare going to spoil theyaga.

Rama released Manavastraon Maareechi. It hit him on his chest.

He was thrown into the ocean beyond a distance of hundredyojanas.

With Agneyaastra, he killed Subahu also. After completing the yaga,

Viswamitra came and complemented Rama Oh Rama! You have

obeyed your fathers order. All the tapasvis, rishis, munis and brahmins

are all praising you. You made this Sidhashramaglorious.

RAMA, LAKSHMANA TRAVELS TO MITHILA

[This part is taken from 31stSarga]

Viswamitra completed his yagna. He requested Rama and

Lakshmana to spend a few more days in his ashrama. One day the


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24 Kishkinda Kandam

Maharishisof that tapovanasaid Oh princes! By your grace, we are all

relieved from the torture of raakshasas. King Janaka is performing a

yagna. We are all going to Mithilato witness the same. You also come

with us. This visit will be of some interest to you also. I will tell you

how?

Oh Rama! Long ago Devarata, the king of Mithila, performed a

yagna. In thatyagna, devatascame and gifted him a divine bow which

belongs to Lord Siva. The middle of that bow is very strong. Hence

nobody could bend that bow and tie the bow-rope to its sides to release

an arrow. Since then the bow remained in the Mithila palace. All his

successors were worshipping that bow. Even devatas, gandharvas,asuras and rakshasas tried to bend the bow, tie thae bow-rope and

release an arrow. Till now nobody could succeed. If you come with us,

you can see that divine bow and also the Yagna being performed by

King Janaka yourself. After completing the yagna Viswamitrawanted

to go to Himalayas to continue tapasya. Hence he respected vana

devatas for protecting him all this time. He also made pradakshana

namaskarams to his ashrama and traveled towards Mithila. While

Viswamitrawas leaving the ashrama, all birds and animals in the forest

went behind him. After sometime, Viswamitra affectionately asked

them to go back to their respective places. They traveled for somedistance and reached river Sonaand slept on its banks for that night.

Rama asked Maharishi! This place is very pleasant with flowers and

fruits. Is there anything special to know about this place?

THE STORY OF KUSANABHA

[This part is taken from 32ndand 33rdSargas]

Viswamitra said oh Rama! Long ago there lived a righteous

person by name Kusu. He was the son of Brahma and had great powers

frm Tapasya. He married the daughter of King Vidarbhaand gave birth

to four sons. They are Kusambu, Kusanabha,Adhoorta, and Vasuvu. All

the four brothers built their own capitals, ruled their countries. Now we

are in the territory of Vasuvu. This country was surrounded by five

mountains. The river Sona was born in the country of Magadha and

flowed around these five mountains into this country.


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25Kishkinda Kandam

Kusanabha married an apsarasa by name Ghrutachi. He had

hundred daughters. In course of time they all attained youth. While they

were playing, the wind god, Vayufascinated by their beauty, asked them

to marry him, and promised divinity for them. The girls said oh wind

god! We are all maids and are under the control of our father. You ask

our father. If he agrees, we will marry you. Vayu, the wind God,became

furious and cursed all of them to become hunch backs. Immediately the

girls turned into hunch backs and looked ugly. They were ashamed of

their own form and ran to the palace with grief. Kusanabhasaw the ugly

form of his daughters and asked them how they got this hunchback and

who was responsible for it.

The marriage of Kusanabhus daughters:

Kusanabha consoled his daughters and got them married to

BrahmadattaMaharishi. The moment he touched their hands, they all

became beautiful girls as before. Brahmadatta took all his wives to his

home. Somada the mother of Brahmadatta received them all with

honour and respect.

THE STORY OF GADHI

[This part is taken from 34, 35, 36, 37 Sargas]

Kusanabhamarried off all his daughters to Brahmadatta. Then, he

performed Putrakaamesti Yaga to have a son. At that time, his father

Kusa came and blessed him to have a glorious son and disappeared.

After sometime, Kusanabhahad a son by name Gaadhi. Gaadhi laterhad

a son and a daughter. That son is myself (Viswamitra) and my sister is

Satyavati. She went to heaven with her husband by herself. From there,

she became a sacred river called Kaushiki. That river is very pure and

pious. I used to go very often and do tapasya on its banks. I came to

Siddhashrama to complete my yaga and I had siddhi because of your

valour.

The River Ganga:

Next morning, they completed their daily rituals and reached

river Ganga. By looking at the pious river, Rama asked oh Maharishi!

How has this river Ganga reached all three worlds? Please tell me.


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26 Kishkinda Kandam

Maharishi said Rama! Himavantais the king of Himalayasand he

had two daughters. They are Ganga and Uma. Devatas requested

Himavanta to send Ganga to heaven. Himavanta agreed. Then, Ganga

was taken by the Devatas in three paths to purify all three worlds. Then,

Ganga went to heaven.

The inclination ofSivaand Parvathi:

Ramaasked Maharishi! What are the virtuous acts that Ganga did

to be called as so sacred? For what greatness of Ganga did the devatas

take her to heaven? Viswamitrasaid Lord Siva engaged with Umadevi

for over hundred divine years. Since his tejas (brightness)could not be

contained by anybody, he released it on earth at the request of the

Devatas. That tejas spread itself all over the earth covering mountains

and trees. DevatasprayedAgni to find a solution for this engulfing tajs of

Siva.Angientered into it with the help of The God of Vayu (wind) and it

got solidified. It became a Huge, white mountain. From that Agni,

through the krittikas, a divine Saravanam was born and that became a

son, by name Kumara swamiSince the boy was borne byAgni, he was

called Agnisambhava. Since he was brought up by krittikas,he was

named, Kartikeya. As he was born from Sivastejas he was also called,

Kumaraswamy. But, Umadevi becamefurious on the devatas and cursed

Oh Devatas! Because of you I and Siva are denied the chance to have a

son. As such you also cannot have children from your wives. After

cursing, Umaand Maheswarawent to western side to do tapasya.

THE STORY OF KINGSAGARA

[This part is taken from 38, 39 and 40thSargas]

Viswamitrasaid Oh Rama! I told you the episode of Ganga. Now I

tell you the story of Sagara.

Long ago, Sagara ruled Ayodhya. He had two wives Kesini and

Sumathi. Sagara did not have children for a long time. So he went toHimalayas with his wives and performed penance (Tapas) on a

mountain called Bhrugusravana in the Himalayas. After sometime

Bhrugu Maharishi was pleased with their penance and blessed Sagara

that both of his wives will have children. One queen will have one son,

another queen will have 60,000 sons who were all valorous and


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27Kishkinda Kandam

glorious, but they will not rule the country. The queens were inquisitive

and asked Maharishi! Who will get one son and who will get 60,000

sons? Maharishi said You yourself can choose. Kesinisaid I want one

son. Sumathi said I will have 60,000 sons. After sometime, Kesini

gave birth to Asamanja. Sumathi delivered 60,000 sons. Asamanja

became a cruel person ever since his boyhood. King Sagara was

annoyed with him and banished him from the country.Asamanjahad a

son by name Amsumanta who was a valorous, well behaved and he

became a darling of the people. After sometime King Sagaradesired to

perform ayagna.

King Sagara releasedyagaswa. After sometime the rithviks foundand told King Sagara that theyagaswa was stolen by somebody and

unless it is brought back to the yagnavatika, the yagna cannot be

completed. King Sagara sent all his 60,000 sons to bring back the

yagaswa. They could not find it anywhere on the earth. So they dug

earth, went to Paatalam. There, while they were breaking the earth,

they killed many creatures like serpents, rakshasas, animals etc. At last

they reached Paatala. The entire devata community went to Brahma

and said that the sons of Sagarawere killing several creatures. Brahma

said Oh devatas! They are all going to die with the fury of Kapila

maharishi. So, you all go to your places.

The sons ofSagaraburnt to ashes:

While searching in Paatala they found yagaswa by the side of

Kapila Maharishi who is none other than Maha Vishnu. They thought

that he himself must have stolen theyagaswaand was pretending as if

he is doing tapasya. They went to kill him. Kapila Maharishiopened his

eyes and saw them. The fury from his eyes burnt all the 60,000 princes.

THE SONS OF SAAGARA BURNT TO ASHES

[This part is taken from 41stSarga]

Sagaratold AmsumantaMy child! All your uncles went to bring

yagaswa. They did not come back till now. Withoutyagaswawe cannot

complete theyagna. Hence you go and bring theyagaswasoon. On your

way, you dont harass anyone. Be kind to the weak and feeble. Whoever

tries to harm you, you kill them. Amsumanta took his blessings from


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28 Kishkinda Kandam

his grandfather and reached Paatala. He also saw four elephants

bearing the load of earth. He respected them with pradakshana

namaskaras and proceeded with their blessings. Finally he went to

Kapila Maharishi. He prostrated at his feet and stood obediently. He

took the yagaswa with the permission of Kapila Maharishi. There he

found heaps of ashes of his uncles. He tried to give tarpanasto them. In

the mean while, Garutmantha came and said oh Amsumanta! Your

uncles were burnt to ashes with the fury of Kapila Maharishi. If you give

tarpanas with ordinary water they will not reach superior lokas. You

must bring Gangawaters and give tarpanas. Then only they will attain

superior lokas. Now, you take yagaswa with you and complete the

yagna.

THE EFFORTS OF BHAGIRATHA

[This part is taken from 42ndSarga]

After King Sagara,Amsumantabecame the king. After him, his son

Dileepabecame king. BothAmsumantaand Dileepa tried to bring Ganga

from heaven. But they could not succeed. After Dileepa, his son

Bhagiradha became King. He made a serious attempt to bring Gangato

the earth and to the Patala. He entrusted the administration to his

ministers, went to forests and meditated on Brahma. After a long time,Brahma appeared and asked What do you want? Bhagiradha replied

Oh Deva! I have two desires. One is, Please bless me to bring Gangato

earth and to Patalamand make my ancestors pure with my tarpanam.

The second desire is, please bless me with a son who will succeed to my

kingdom. Brahma said I am blessing you with son. But for bringing

Gangafrom the heaven to the earth, the earth cannot bear the speed of

Gangas flow. Hence you must pray Lord Siva to hold Ganga, before it

reaches the earth. After saying so, Brahma disappeared.

GANGADESCENDS TO EARTH

[This part is taken from 43rdSarga]

After Brahma disappeared, Bhagiratha continued his tapasya,

meditating on Lord Siva for several years. Lord Siva was pleased and

appeared before Bhagiratha and said that he will hold Ganga on his

head.


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29Kishkinda Kandam

Gangaprepared to jump on to the head of Sivabefore landing on

to the earth. While jumping, she entertained a mischievous thought of

taking away Siva also to Paatala with her velocity of stream. Siva

understood her mischievous thought. The moment she landed on to his

head, he fastened her in his mass of twisted hair. Gangatried her level

best to come out of his twisted hair but could not come and of it and and

had to remain there. Bhagiradha waited for the Ganga waters for

several years but he could not find even a drop of water from the head

of Siva. Again he made tapasya addressing Siva. Sivabecame pleased

with him and released Ganga. The Ganga waters has flowed into seven

ways. Of them three are Hladini, Pavani, Naliniwhich traveled towards

the east. Three more water ways flowed towards west and are named

as Suchakshuvu, Seeta and Sindhu. One part followed Bhagiratha to

Paatalam. While Ganga was flowing thus, several water animals, fish

also came along with the stream. Since it is brought by Bhagiratha to

the earth, the river was named as Bhaageerathi. While the Ganga

flowing behind him entered the tapovanaofJahnu Maharishi, the waters

flooded the Maharshisyagnavatika. The Maharishi became furious and

swallowed all the waters and retained them in his stomach. Again

Bhagiratha praye

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