Harihara

" Shiva and Vishnu are the same "
"sivasya hridayam vishnuh,vishnOscha hridayam shivah "
"yathA shivamayO vishnurEvam vishnumaya shivah" .
- Skandopanishad
"Shiva is a form of Vishnu and Vishnu a form of Shiva. Shiva dwells in the heart of Vishnu while Vishnu in the heart of shiva."
Harihara is the name of a combined deity form of both Vishnu (Hari) and Shiva (Hara) from the Hindu tradition. Also known as Shankaranarayana ("Shankara" is Shiva, and "Narayana" is Vishnu), Harihara is thus worshipped by both Vaishnavites and Shaivities as a form of the Supreme God, as well as being a figure of worship for other Hindu traditions in general. Harihara is also sometimes used as a philosophical term to denote the unity of Vishnu and Shiva as different aspects of the same Supreme God.
ये अपि अन्य देवता भक्ताः यजन्ते श्रध्दयान्विताः
ते अपि मामेव कौन्तेय यजन्त्यविधिपूर्वकम
- Bhagavad Gita (Chp 9, 23)
Krishna tells Arjuna that even those who are the devotees (bhaktaas) of other devataas (anya devataa) and who worship them with great devotion they too are worshipping Him – even if it is considered to be avidhipoorvakam (i.e. following a different “vidhi”, or pooja rituals). Krishna is saying, “Pray to Me directly. But, if the devotee finds attachment to other deities, that is OK. They too worship Me.”
Vishnu-maaya

Naarada, coming under Vishnu maaya, gives shaapam to Vishnu, Naarada says “Svaami! Please forgive Me. I, coming under influence of Your maaya, got ahankaar and did Your ninda. Please tell Me what can save Me from this ghora-paapam”.

Vishnu says:“O Priya Naarada! You go and do paaraayana of Shankara Shatanaamams. Then You will get Shaanti. Shiva is whom I respect the most. Even by mistake dont forget this. One who doesnt have Shiva-anugraham cannot be My Bhakta. Believe this … Then My maaya wont affect you.”

One day, when Lakshmi and Vishnu were together in vihaaram, Lakshmi sees Ucchaishravam, her brother, the horse of Revanta who is the son of Surya. Engrossed in seeing her brother, she does not reply to the repeated calls of Vishnu. Seeing her attraction, Vishnu gives her shaapam to go to Bhulokam in the form of a horse and come back to Vaikuntam only after getting a son equal to Himself! She comes to Bhuloka to experience the shaapam and realizing that none other than her brother, Shiva can help her calm Vishnu, she immediately does a tapas for Him and Shiva appears to save her soodari. Lakshmi says “You and Vishnu are both same, the Paramaatma. Please help me!”. Shiva says “Soodari! How do you know that we both are same? All learned people know that. Who told you?”. Lakshmi says, “Once Mahavishnu Himself told me this. Seeing Him in deep Daiva-dhyaanam, I asked Him “During Samudramanthanam, I thought you were the greatest of all and hence chose you. Devaadideva! Who is better than you that you are in dhyaanam of Him?”. Mahavishnu replied “I am doing Shankara-dhyaanam. He is Eshwara. He is the same as Me. All learned people know that. If someone is my devotee but still hates Shiva, he will fall into naraka”. Saying this, She asks Shiva to pursuade Vishnu to bless Her with a child. Shiva sends Chitrarupa as a duta to convince Vishnu. Vishnu immediately accepts and comes to Bhuloka and blesses Lakshmi with Ekaveera, who is equal to Vishnu Himself.

Myths.....

The devas had looked upon the earth, and were horrified by the terrible state it was in- everywhere there was greed, war and unhappiness. Vice and sin ran rampant among people. Confused as to how things could have become like this, they approached Vishnu to seek answers. Vishnu said to them as they assembled, "Let us go to Shankar, for He is wise!" Vishnu led the demigods up the icy slopes of Mount Kailash, but saw no one there. Amidst the rocks and snow, there was no sign of Shiva or Parvati, or even Nandi. The baffled gods searched for a sign of Shiva until Vishnu came to them and said, "My beloved, your selfishness has made you blind, for Hara is here! You must purify yourselves- bathe in milk, sing the Satarudriya hymn, and take only hot milk for 3 days, and your eyes will be opened." They followed his instructions, but after 3 days they still could see no sign of Shiva. They cried out, "O Jagannath, Lord of the World, where can we find Shankar?" At that, Vishnu pointed to his chest. "He is in me, as I am in him. Can't you see that?" As he spoke, he revealed his lotus heart, and as the petals opened, the sacred Lingam could be seen in the middle. The gods fervently worshipped the lingam, bathing it in milk, covering it with vermillion and sandalpaste, offering flowers and chanting the 1008 names of Shiva. But through this, they were still disturbed- How could Hari and Hara be one and the same? Vishnu had light, Sattvic qualities, while Shiva had dark, tamasic qualities. They were so different! But knowing their thoughts, Vishnu took on the form of Shiva. The gods could no longer tell the difference between the trident-bearing, three eyed god, or the conch bearing lord. And so, realizing finally that Vishnu and Shiva were one and the same, they bowed in devotion and worshipped Sri Hari Hara.

Birthday

Spiritual Meaning

Celebrating a birthday is actually expressing gratitude to God for the opportunity to do sadhana (spiritual practice) during the past year and praying for His grace in the coming year.
The birthday is the day to assess spiritual progress of the embodied soul: ‘The word ‘vad-divas’, in Marathi language literally means “day of growth”. Here growth indicates spiritual progress. For the soul to progress spiritually, purification of the subtle body and imbibing of the three components also known as ‘trigunas’) from Deities in appropriate proportions is necessary. The spiritual progress of an embodied soul begins at birth. Even if an individual does not undertake actual spiritual practice, due to various spiritual rituals performed on him the sattva component in him increases thus initiating his spiritual progress. Birthday is the day to take stock of the effect of spiritual rituals on his subtle body. From a spiritual perspective, birthday is the day to assess one’s spiritual progress and if there is spiritual progress then it signifies actual growth’
Birthday is the day to enhance one’s ability to imbibe chaitanya: ‘Birthday is the day for enhancement of the ability of an embodied soul to imbibe chaitanya, through the benevolent frequencies gained by invoking Deities. Through this action which raises the sattva component in the atmosphere, the embodied soul achieves stability of the inner mind.’

Eight Avatars Of Lord Ganesh

The stories and legends of Lord Ganesha are referred in many pauranic texts out of which two Puranas viz. Ganesha Purana and Mudgala Purana (Upa Puranas) are totally dedicated to Lord Ganesha. As per these puranas it is said that Lord Ganesha got manifested in several forms out of which eight are considered to be most important referred to as his incarnations. These incarnations which have taken place in different cosmic ages are Vakratunda, Ekadanta, Mahodara, Gajavaktra(Gajanana), Lambodara, Vikata, Vighnaraja and Dhoomravarna.
In all these incarnations Lord Ganesha was depicted as having an elephant trunk. In five out of eight incarnations Lord Ganesha is symbolized with Mouse as his vehicle. In the other three incarnations he is said to have used Lion, Peacock, and Serpent as his vehicle (Vahana). In each incarnation a philosophical concept is highlighted as the main theme apart from the other. Lord Ganesha is said to have fought in each incarnation with a demon symbolized with a weakness.
Above incarnations indicate the need for human beings to overcome these weaknesses in order to lead a happy and peaceful life and for realization of the ultimate reality.
It is said that the incarnations of Lord Ganesha as per Ganesha Purana are Mohotkata with Lion as his mount, Mayuresvara with Peacock as his mount, Gajanana with Mouse as his mount and Dhumrakethu with Mouse as his mount. It is believed and said that Lord Ganesha was in existence in all the Yugas.
Vakratunda

Ganesha’s first avatara is of Vakratunda (twisted trunk) an embodiment of the Absolute Impersonal aspect of Godhood called Brahman in the form of Ganesha.

A demon named Matsara was born out of the Pramaada (Heedlessness) of Indra, the king of Gods. This demon performed severe penance and invoked the grace of Lord Shiva and obtained the boon of fearlessness from Him. Having obtained the boon he went about conquering all the three worlds," He was coronated as the king of Asuras by their preceptor Sukracharya. The defeated gods went to Kailasa and prayed to Lord Shiva for protection. On hearing the mission of gods, Matsara went to Kailas and vaniquished Lord Shiva also. When the gods were at their wit's end to know what to do next. Lord Dattatreya came there. He advised the gods to invoke the grace of Lord Vakratunda and imparted to them the secret of the monosyllable mantra Gam. All the gods including Shiva did penance accordingly and at last Lord Vakratunda appeared and assured them that he would subdue the demon. The demon was so terrified at the sight of Vakratunda that he surrendered to Him and sought refuge at His feet. The Lord forgave him, and restored the lost glory and kingdoms to the gods, and to the various kings on earth.

Ekadanta

The next incarnation was in the form of Ekadanta (single tusked) who defeated the demon Madasura.
The famous sage Chyavana created Madasura. The Asura sought his father's permission and went to Sukracharya, who was Chyavana's brother as well as the preceptor of the Asuras. He prostrated to the Guru and expressed his desire to become the ruler of the whole universe. Sukracharya was pleased with his nephew's submission and initiated him into the Shakti Mantra Hrim. Madasura did penance on this mantra for thousands of years. At last the deity of Shakti, appeared, before him and blessed him with the fulfillment of all his desires. Thereafter the demon went about raging battles against all the kings and the gods, and was victorious everywhere. He thus became the ruler of all the three worlds.
In his reign, all virtues and righteousness disappeared from the world. He married Saalasa the daughter of Pramada Asura and begot three children in her, viz. Vilasi, Lolupa and Dhanapriya. The worried gods approached Sanat kumara and sought his advice to overcome their plight Sanatkumara instructed them to propitiate Lord Ekadanta and seek his protection. He also described the glory of Ekadanta thus "Eka stands for Maya the “embodied". and Danta for Truth (Satta). Thus Ekadanta represents the Supreme Truth which wields the Maya." The Devas then meditated upon the Lord Ekadanta for hundreds of years. Pleased by their devotion the Lord appeared before them and assured them that He would remove their miseries. Narada, the celestial saint, promptly informed Madasura of the boon given to the gods by the Lord and prompted him to wage war against Ekadanta The demon got ready for a battle with the Lord. But alas as soon as he reached the battlefield and beheld the terrible form of Ekadanta, all his courage drained away and he surrendered to the Lord.
The demon then gave up the worlds held under his reign, and sought the Lord's protection. The Lord then told Madasura : "Don't stay in a place where I am worshipped in a Satwic manner. You are free to enjoy the fruits of all actions done with Asuric Bhava”.

Mahodara

The third incarnation was of Mahodara who vanquished Mohasura, the demon of Delusion and Confusion. Once again the mouse was the mount of Ganesha. The confused nature of this tale makes it difficult to understand exactly what was going on. It seems that once Shiva was sunk in meditation for ages and showing no signs of coming out of it. Meanwhile, the gods were in need of help. Parvati therefore assumed an alluring form and wandered round his meditating spot. Shiva was brought back to normal wakeful consciousness by this act and she abandoned the alluring ‘cover’ so as to speak. This abandoned energy form became a demon in its own right over the ages and Ganesha subdued it. Shiva and Parvati are the parents of Ganesha, so the psychological implications of this tale make the head spin.
Mohasur worshipped the Sun God and attained the name of Daitya Raja meaning King of the Demons. He also conquered all the three worlds… “All the gods, sages hid in caves and jungles in fear of him. There was anarchy all over. At this time Surya, Sun God advised all the gods to worship Mahodara ie, Ganesha. “All the Gods and the Sages started worshiping Mahodara. Ganesha was pleased and granted them with a boon, saying that he would slay Mohasur himself.
When Shukracharya heard this, he told Mohasur to surrender in front of Mahodara. Lord Vishnu also explained to Mohasur that if he surrendered he will not be killed or destroyed. That’s why he should accept the friendship of Mahodara. By saying this he started praising and singing the glories of Lord Lambodara. “Listening to this Mohasur became frightened and he requested Lord Vishnu to bring Mahodara giving him due honour and respect. When Lord Mahodara arrived, Mohasur greeted and welcomed him with pomp and gaiety. He sang his praises and asked for forgiveness for his evil sins. Mohasur promised the gods that he would return them their Swargalok and assured that he would be always on the path of righteousness. He also assured them that henceforth, he would not a dare to harass the Gods and Sages. Listening to this Lord Mahodara was pleased and commanded him to go back to Pataal lok and never return again. All the Gods and the Sages were elated, They all started singing the praise of Lord Mahodara.

Gajanana.

Equally perplexing in the tangled web of intergenerational sexuality is the next tale, of the avatar of Gajanana or Gajavaktra who defeated the demon Lobhasura (Greed or Covetousness). Gajanana means “the Lord with an elephant face”, and Lobha was the demon of greed.
Kubera, the Treasurer of the heavens, once visited Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva. There he was blessed with the vision of the Lord and Goddess Parvati. Parvati was so beautiful that Kubera looked at Her with lustful eyes. The Mother became angry at this, and Kubera shivered with fear. From the fear of Kubera, there manifested a demon named Lobhasura. Lobhasura descended to the world of Asuras, where he received his education from Sukracharya, the guru of Asuras. He was initiated into the mantra "0m Namah Shivaya". The demon then performed penance and in due course the Lord appeared and blessed him with the boon of fearlessness.
The demon Lobha now went about conquering the three worlds and became the sovereign ruler. He sent word to Lord Shiva that he would like to rule over Kailas, and that it would be better if He relinquished His abode. The Lord thought for a while and decided to leave His abode. The gods, tyrannised by the demonic rule, approached sage Raibhya who instructed them to pray to Lord Gajaanana. The Devas invoked the grace of the Lord and sought His protection. The Lord blessed them, and sent Vishnu as His messenger to the demon to apprise him of the strength of Gajaanana Lobhasura was convinced of the Lord's strength and surrendered without putting up a fight.

Lambhodara

Once upon a time Lord Vishnu had assumed the form of Mohini, the enchantress, to delude the demons. When Lord Shiva beheld this seductive form. He was struck with passion. Vishnu immediately gave up the Mohini form and assumed His usual form. Shiva became sad and angry. Out of the seeds of His disappointment was born a terrible demon Krodhasura. This demon invoked the grace of the Lord Sun and became a powerful king. He married "Preeti" the beautiful daughter of Sambara and begot two sons in her—- Harsha and Soka.
The gods undertook penance to invoke the grace of Lord Ganesha in the form of Lambodara. The Lord appeared before them and for the sake of the world, subdued Krodhasura.

Vikata

His next incarnation was of Vikata(”The mishappen”), who subdued Kama, the demon of desire.
The demon named Kamasura, i.e. the embodiment of lust, was born out of the seeds of Lord Vishnu. Like all other demons he was accepted by the preceptor Sukracharya as his disciple. Kamasura performed penance on Lord Shiva and after long and arduous austerities he was blessed by the Lord. He became the supreme ruler of the three worlds. He was ceremoniously married to Trishna, the daughter of Mahishasura, and begot two sons in her, viz. Soshana and Dushpoora.
The Devas, tormented by his rule, approached Mudgala Rishi for showing them a way out. The teacher advised them to meditate on the mantra OM at a place called Mayuresa Kshetra. Pleased by their devotion. Lord Ganesha appeared to them in the form of Vikata, and brought about their salvation.

Vighnaraja.

The 7th incarnation of Ganesha Vighnaraja had a very unusual mode of conveyance - a Sheshnaag or Shasha. In this lifetime Ganesha managed to subdue the demon Mamasur (also known as Mamtasur or Mama), the demon of the ego. This is His (Ganesha’s) most popular incarnation, known as The Remover of Obstacles. Riding his vehicle called Sheshnag, a serpent, he strode into battle with Mamtasur, and overcame him.”
Parvati Devi, the daughter of Himavan, was married to Lord Shiva. After the marriage, one day when She was relaxing in the company of Her friends. She burst out in laughter in a playful mood, and out of Her laughter was born a handsome male form He prostrated to the Mother She was surprised at this manifestation of the form and asked him who he was and what he wanted. He said that he was born from Her laughter and asked Her as to how he could serve Her. She named him Mama, as he was born out of her outburst, when She was swayed by "Maan", the sense of I-ness, Ego. She then instructed him to remember Lord Ganesha always, who would fulfill all his desires.
Mama retired to the forests to meditate on Lord Ganesha. On the way, he met Sambara Asura, who managed to allure him into the Asuric cult and initiated him into the demonic methods of worship. Thus Mama of angelic nature became Mamasura, the demon. He married Mohini, the daughter of an Asura chief in due course he became the ruler of alt the three worlds. The Devas who were exiled from their worlds propitiated Lord Ganesha, Who incarnated as Vighnaraja, subdued Mamasura and established righteousness and peace.

Dhoomravarna

Ganesha has a mouse as his mount here. His life mission this time around was to defeat the demon Ahamkarasur, the demon of self-infatuation.
Once, Brahmaji, the grandsire, bestowed on the Sun deity, the lordship over the 'world of activities'. One day, a thought dawned in the mind of Sun: "All the worlds are governed by Karma—-activities; and by virtue of my being the Lord of Karma Rajya, I can consider myself to be the supreme governor of all the worlds. As this thought passed his mind, he happened to sneeze and out of the sneeze there arose a demon. He went down to the world of Asuras and Sukracharya gave him the name “Aham" on account of his birth from the ego of Sun. He meditated on Lord Ganesha, who appeared before him in the form of Dhumravarna and blessed him to be the sovereign ruler of all the three worlds.
Aham married "Mamata", daughter of Pramadasura, and begot two sons in her named Garva and Sreshta. Tired of the demonic rule of Aham, the Devas meditated upon Lord Ganesha for salvation, and the Lord descended to their rescue- Ere long, Lord Ganesha in the form of Dhoomravarna subdued the demon Aham.

Siddhi & Buddhi

"Wherever there is Ganesh, there is Success and Prosperity" and "Wherever there is Success and Prosperity there is Ganesh"
According to one tradition, Ganesha was a brahmacārin, that is, unmarried. This pattern is primarily popular in southern India . This tradition was linked to Hindu concepts of the relationship between celibacy and the development of spiritual power.
In the north of India , on the other hand, Ganesha is often portrayed as married to the two daughters of Brahma: Buddhi ((also called Riddhi) intellect) and Siddhi (spiritual power).
As a child Lord Ganesh was once playing with a cat. He pulled its tail and rolled it on the ground. Later, tired of this game, He decided to spend time with His mother, Parvati. He found her covered in dirt and with bruises.
Surprised, He asked, “What happened, Mother?”
“Remember the cat you were playing with… that was me. I am the Divine power that is exists in all beings.” Lord Ganesh realised that all women are extensions of His mother and decided never to marry.
Another interpretation is that His devotion towards His mother is the reason why He is considered as a celibate bachelor. To Him, she was the most beautiful and a perfect woman. He vowed that He could marry the girl who would match up to His mother’s beauty and divine qualities.It is said that Lord Ganesh was unable to find a suitable mate because of His unique appearance.
This bothered Him and He summoned the rats to burrow deep holes in the path of any God who were on their way to get married. The potholes made the journey of the grooms and their marriage processions extremely difficult. Frustrated, they went to Lord Brahma to complain.
Lord Brahma created two beautiful girls Riddhi (Abundance. Opulence, Wealth) and Siddhi / Buddhi (Intellectual and Spiritual Prowess) and they were married to Him. With His two consorts, He had sons Shubha (Auspiciousness) and Labha (Profit) and a daughter named Santoshi (Goddess of Satisfaction / Contentment).The Shiva Purana states that King Prajapati had two daughters - Riddhi and Siddhi. He approached Shiva and Parvati for the marriage of his girls to Lord Ganesh and Lord Kartikeyan / Karthikeyan (Lord Ganesh’s younger brother). But both these girls wished that Lord Ganesh should be their husband and so they were married. It is said that if one has Riddhi but doesn’t have Siddhi / Buddhi then it is worthless. Possessing only Siddhi without Riddhi is also futile. Lord Ganesh bestows both these blessings to His ardent devotees. If we delve into ourselves we will realize that we are all Ganapatis (Gana is our body made of the Pancha-Mahabhuta (Five elements), Pati stands for master or owner). Thus He shows us the way to achieve both intellect and wealth to enjoy a rewarding life.
" Kalabou "
There is another mythology, especially in Bengal , which goes in that Ganesha is married to the Kalabou. The Kalabou is nothing but a banana tree draped in traditional white with a Bengali saree with a red border. The story goes that, when Ganesha was supposed to marry, one day when he came home, he saw his mother Durga eating with all her ten hands. Shocked, he asked why is she doing it. Durga replied that if, after Ganesha marries, his wife would not give Durga any food, so Durga is eating to her heart's content with all ten hands. Feeling very sad, Ganesha decided that he would marry a banana tree or Kalabou so that her mother never has any worries about food, as a banana tree cannot stop her from eating.
In the early hours of Saptami, the kalabou is taken for a bath to the Holy Ganges. Water from the Ganges accompanied with Dhak and Kanshi finishes the bathing ceremony. After the bathing ceremony she is adorned in a red-bordered white sari and vermilion is smeared on its leaves. She is then placed on a decorated pedestal and worshipped with flowers, sandalwood paste, and incense sticks. Later she is placed on the right side of Lord Ganesh. This is the reason she is popularly known as Ganesh's wife.

Sri Shuba Drishti Ganapathy

The word ‘Drishti’ means sight in Sanskrit. A natural or casual look at anything is harmless. But it is believed that the shafts of sight tinged with the element of jealousy have the power of destroying the thing or the person which they strike. From ancient times it is known that a mother fondly applies a black dot on the cheek of her baby with a view to ward off the influence of any evil-eye. Traditional rituals like throwing away a lemon after waving it before the baby a number of times, in order to protect him or her from such baneful influence. Then their is a practice of shopkeepers burning camphor and breaking coconut before their shops on every Friday. People perfom Homas to ward of evil from their homes and lives.
As every person’s life is in accordance with his thinking, “a man becomes what his thoughts make him to be “, say the psychologists. Therefore, the only way to solve the problems of the modern man is by channelising his thought in the right direction. That alone can do him good which in turn will enable him to lead a happy life. Therefore, in the first place, man should change his thoughts for the better. He should replace evil thoughts with good ones.
Divine forms of Shuba Drishti Ganapathi
Shuba Drishti Ganapathy is an all-powerful glorious divine form brought into being with the unique, powerful blessings of Sage Agastya, the foremost among the eighteen Siddhas. Lord Vinayaka has the power to bring about thought transformation ( from bad thoughts to good thoughts) That is why, gathering within Himself all divine powers, He, as Lord Ganapathy, has descended on this earth, as Sri Shuba Drishti Ganapathy. Sri Shuba Drishti Ganapathy is the 33 form of Ganesha in this Kali Yuga who has risen for the good of the people, taking this supremely attractive form. Mahaganapathi in this rare form is the confluence of several incarnations of the Supreme, al rolled into one. Seated on the lion and holding the Triden in His hand, He symbolises Devi Parashakti. He with Agni in one hand and the Third Eye on His forehead reveals that He is none else than Lord Siva. He reminds us that He is an ‘amsa’ of Goddess Mahalakshmi, standing as He does on the lotus. He dispels poverty and bestows prosperity on his devotees. Holding Sanku, Chakra and Gatha, He appears as the very form of Lord Vishnu, assuring protection to the meek and weak. Amritha Kalasa on His crown connotes Lord Dhanvanthri, the dispeller of diseases. The circular radiance round his profound head reminds one of the Goddess Gayathri, giver of all desires. The Mahakundalini, Goddess Thiripurasundari, who could be discerned in His form, is sure to generate good thoughts in mind and lead one in the right path.
Lord Maha Ganapathy has reincarnated now as Sri Shuba Drishti Ganapathy. He removes the miseries or sorrows of all those who worship Him. Millions and millions of people are being blessed by Him with the prosperity. The cumulative effect of the vibrations caused in His worship not only benefits the worshippers but leads this world to peace and prosperity.
Worship
By worshipping Drishti Ganapathy in home one can Shuba Drishti Ganapathy’s image or idol has to be put on the south wall, facing the NORTH direction. It is not only to be displayed on the front door ( though may of them put it their) be can be kept in the prayer room or in the drawing room where it can draw the attention of all visitors to the house.of all the influence caused by the cast of evil-eye upon yourself as well as the members of the family and bring about great profit and prosperity.

!! SIDDHIVINAYAK VRAT !!

Mushikavaahana modaka hastha,
Chaamara karna vilambitha sutra,
Vaamana rupa maheshwara putra,
Vighna vinaayaka paada namasthe
MEANING: "O Lord Vinayaka! the remover of all obstacles, the son of Lord Shiva, with a form which is very short, with mouse as Thy vehicle, with sweet pudding in hand, with wide ears and long hanging trunk, I prostrate at Thy lotus-like Feet!"
Sri Ganeshchaturthi is not only a festival but also a religious festival and a vrat. Siddhi Vinayaka Vrat is performed or observed on Ganesh Chaturthi day itself. On this day Ganesha is prayed and worshipped according to the scriptures. 21 malpuas are offered to Ganeshji along with 21 Durvas (a type of grass) and 21 modaks while reciting 21 names of Ganeshji. After that one should offer food to the Brahmins and then should partake food.
Ganesha is the Deity of “Light”. He is Himself “Light”. So for the Scientific minded, we worship Ganesha who is “Light Deified” on this day. Ganesha was born from the dirt on the body of Shakti. While Shiva is the “being” aspect of that which has come into being and which we call “Shrusti” or “Creation”. Shakti is the “happening” aspect of the same. It is the primary “Energy” which brings into being all that was, is and will be.
The awakened Shakti is the stillness of Shiva that has become active or un-still. This first unstill-ness is the “vibration” or the AUM. From this Nada Bindu emerges the first aspect of Creation, that is LIGHT which even though is the finest form of energy, is still coarser than Shakti .(This LIGHT is not the Light that we generally know of. It is the LIGHT that gives Light, its Light.) This is why another name for Ganesha is OMKARA. And this is why Ganesha is said to have been created from the scurf of Shakti’s body. It could also mean that Ganesha is the first in the movement from a state of “Stasis”,or “Achalana” or Sattva, when no Creation is possible, to the state of “Chalana” or disturbance which produces Rajas and Tamas , which are the two aspects of Creation.
Why is this Vrata called Varasiddhi Vinaayaka Vratha ??
As per Ganesha Purana, this Vrata is observed and the devotees have to imagine that he is granting us all types of boons and granting our wishes. Ganesha is Varasiddhi Vinaayaka…. He is the one who fulfills any of our wishes…..removes all obstacles.
What is Doorva Ganapathi ?
Every pooja has to start of with first prayers to Ganesha. Even while performing Varasidhhi Vinaayaka Vratha we should request Ganesha to help us perform his vrata without any vignaas (obstacles). For this purpose, before the Ganesha Vratha, we keep this Doorva Ganesha (made of Cow dung and Doorva) and do first pooja to DoorvaGanapathi.
What is the significance of Doorva on this day ?
Ganapathi is also called Doorva bilva priya and likes Doorva. Doorva is considered as one form of samith during any yagna types. Hence Doorva finds a place during Ganapathi pooja.
What is the significance of celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi?
In the 120 days from the full moon (pournima) in Ashadh till that in Kartik of the Hindu lunar calendar, yama frequencies, which have the ability to destroy and are tama predominant reach the earth in greater quantities. During this period they are of a greater intensity. However since during the same period, that is from the fourth day (chaturthi) in the bright fortnight of Bhadrapad till Anant chaturdashi, Ganesh frequencies too reach the earth in greater quantities it helps in reducing the intensity of the yama frequencies. Thus celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi derives the benefits from Ganesh frequencies and helps in reducing the effects of yama frequencies.
Spiritual science underlying calling Sri Ganesh ji ‘Vighnaharta’
Three hundred sixty different frequencies are continuously in motion in the eight directions. The raja frequencies among them are called ‘tiryak’ frequencies and the tama frequencies ‘visphutit’. These clusters of frequencies adversely affect the world of living beings. Sri Ganesh ji controls these clusters and destroys the obstacles. Hence Sri Ganesh ji is called ‘Vighnaharta’, that is, the remover of obstacles.
Rituals and their significance
Before commencing the ritualistic worship, rice (grain) is spread over the seat on which the idol is to be installed. Either a fistful or a mound of rice is used, depending on the local custom. On invocation of Ganapati and His ritualistic worship, energy is generated in the idol. This energy saturates the rice on which the idol is placed. If there are two strings of a musical instrument (a stringed musical instrument) of the same frequency, when sound is generated by one the same is generated by the other. Similarly, when frequencies of energy are generated in the rice below the idol, this energy is transmitted to the rice stored in the house. Thus one can eat rice saturated with energy as a sacrament of food (prasad) throughout the year.
When performing each of the following rituals a particular mantra is recited.
1. Sipping water from the palm (achaman): This brings about internal purification.
2. The resolve (sankalpa): It may be difficult to obtain the benefit of a ritual without making a resolve.
3. Purification of the seat (asanshuddhi): This is brought about by touching one's seat and offering obeisance (namaskar).
4. Chanting the Purushsukta (Purushsukta nyas): Amidst chanting of the Purushsukta, the deity should be invoked in one's heart, head, small portion of hair on the head (shikha), face, eyes and between the eyebrows. This facilitates an increase in the sattvik (sattva predominant) temperament.
5. Worship of the pot (kalashpuja): All deities, seas, holy rivers, etc., should be invoked in the pot. Sandalwood paste (gandha), consecrated rice (akshata) and flowers should be offered to the pot. This sattvik water is then used in the ritualistic worship.
6. Worship of the conch (shankhapuja): The conch should be washed and filled with water. Then sandalwood paste and white flowers should be offered to it. One should not offer consecrated rice and tulsi leaves to it.
7. Worship of the bell (ghantapuja): One should create sound by ringing the bell to welcome the deities and drive off the demons (asurs). The bell should be placed to one's left and sandalwood paste, consecrated rice and flowers should be offered to it.
8. Worship of the lamp (dipapuja): Sandalwood paste and flowers are offered to the lamp.
9. Purification (pavitrikaran): The water from the conch should be poured onto one's right palm and then sprinkled over oneself and on the substances to be used in the ritualistic worship.
10. Worship of the entrance (dvarpuja): Flowers and consecrated rice should be scattered in all four directions. This itself is the worship of the guardian deities of the directions (dikpal).
11. Consecration of the idol (pranpratistha): One should place the right hand over the heart of the idol of the deity and chant a mantra. Consecration of an idol is done at Ganesh chaturthi or to activate any new idol. This is not included in the usual ritualistic worship, as due to the regular worship the God principle has already been attained by it.
12. Meditation (dhyan): One should chant 'Vakratunda mahakaya suryakoti samaprabha Nirvighnam kurume deva sarva Karyeshu Sarvada.
How to perform Ganesh Chaturthi Puja at Home?
Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chaturthi is one of the most colorful and widely celebrated festivals in India. Large number of people observe Ganesha Chaturthi poojas at home. Here is an explanation on how to perform Ganesha puja at home as mentioned in Hindu scriptures.
Ganesha puja on the Chaturthi day is usually performed at noon but nowadays people perform it when all the family members are present.
Requirements
  • A Clay image of Lord Ganesha.
  • Red flowers
  • Druva Grass blades
  • Modak (jaggery filled sweet)
  • Coconut
  • Red chandan (Sandalwood paste)
  • Incense and agarbathis
  • First clean the house and take a bath.
  • A Clay image of Lord Ganesha is installed in a raised platform.
    Pray to Lord Ganesh and you can recite mantras or bhajans dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
  • Next step is to invoke Ganesha into the image. This is known as pran-prathishta. The Pran Prathista mantra in Sanskrit to be invoked is found in the Rig Veda and is part of Ganesh Suktha.
  • Now Ganesha is installed in the idol and one can perform arati and light the lamps. Some people perform the shhodashopachara, which are 16 forms of paying tribute to Ganesha. (This ritual is usually performed by the priests, you can skip this.)
  • Offer 21 blades of Druva Grass.
  • Offer 21 modakas
  • Offer red flowers
  • Apply a tilak using red Sandalwood paste.
  • Break the coconut or just keep it along with the idol. You can also keep fried grains. (The food of the rat – the vehicle of Ganesha).
  • You can also recite the 108 salutations dedicated to Lord Ganesha or read the Ganesha Upanishad or just simply pray.

The number 21 signifies – the five organs of perception, five organs of action, five vital airs (pranas), five elements, and the mind.
While performing Ganesha Puja at home, you can always be flexible. The strict rituals are meant for Vedic priests. All you need be careful is to perform the pujas with a clean body and clean mind. What is more important is devotion not the ritual.

What is the need for a new idol?

Inspite of having an idol of Ganapati, which is routinely worshiped, a new idol is brought for Ganesha Chaturthi. During the period of Ganesha Chatuthi, the Ganesha frequencies reach the earth in larger quantities. If these frequencies are invoked in the usual idol of worship, then that idol will acquire a tremendous amount of energy. To worship such an idol meticulously observing all the norms of ritualistic worship throughout the year would be a difficult task as one would have to follow the restrictions of ritualistic worship (karmakanda).
Hence, a new idol is installed to invoke the Ganesha frequencies and is then immersed. The proportion of sattva, raja and tama components in Ganapati frequencies is 5:5:5 while that in an average person is 1:3:5. This makes it difficult for an average person to receive Ganesha frequencies for a long time.

Making an idol from china clay or mud

One should prepare the Ganesh idol from china clay or mud. Nowadays, idols are made from plaster of Paris so that they become light weight and more attractive. There is a difference between idols made from mud and plaster of Paris. There are references in the Purans (mythological texts) that Ganapati was created from grime. Hence it is appropriate to use a Ganesh idol made of mud for ritualistic worship. The pure spiritual particles (pavitraks) of Ganapati get attracted to a greater extent towards an idol made of mud than to that made of plaster of Paris.

Sculpting an idol is superior to using a mould

Nowadays, idol making houses have taken the form of a vocation to earn money rather than considering it to be a holy mission or art. The Ganesh idols are made using a mould so that they can be made available for sale faster, merely keeping a commercial angle. However as far as possible, a readymade mould should not be used. The reasons for this are as follows. When making the idol manually, idol makers get an excellent opportunity to exhibit their artistic skill and consequently they obtain satisfaction. Besides, sculpting the idol generates more spiritual emotion (bhav) in the sculptor and such an idol is more sattvik (sattva predominant). From a sculptor's viewpoint, the amount of spiritual emotion generated when sculpting the idol is more important than making the idol artistic and attractive. Hence as far as possible idol makers should make idols manually. Sanatan's perspective too is 'Art for God realisation and not merely art for the sake of art or as business'.

Idol should be a seated one, not standing

If a guest pays a visit, we offer him a seat and not keep him standing. During Ganesh Chaturthi, we invoke Lord Ganapati, that is invite Him. One should offer Him a seat and proper hospitality. Harbouring the spiritual emotion (bhav) that Lord Ganapati has actually come to visit us. Besides due to the entire weight of the idol resting on the feet, the idol may even break if it is kept in the standing position for ten consecutive days. Hence one should make an idol which is seated on a wooden seat (pat).

ganananh tva ganapatim havamahe kavim kavinam–upamashravastamam jyeshhtharajam brahmanan.h brahmanaspata A nah shrivnvannutibhih sida sadanam
(Rig Veda 2.23.1)

We invoke You, O Ganapati of the ganas (Lord Shiva attendants), Who are Brahmana-spati of the brahmas (prayers), the wisest among the wise, Who abound in treasure beyond all measure, the most brilliant one. Do listen to our prayers, come with Your blessings and assurances of protection into our home, and be seated. (Rig Veda 2.23.1)

ni shhu sida ganapate ganeshhu tvamahurvipratamam kavinam na rite tvat.h kriyate kinchanare mahamarkam maghavan.h chitramarcha
(Rig Veda 10.112.9)

Sit down among the worshippers, O Ganapati, the best sage among the sages. Without You nothing can be done here or far. Accept with honor, O wealthy One, our great and variegated hymns of praise. (Rig Veda 10.112.9)

Saraswatilakshmi

Its a rare photo of Saraswatilakshmi.
“WE need both knowledge and wealth to sustain the cosmos. Without knowledge We cannot plan. Without wealth We cannot implement a plan. Wealth sustains life; the arts give value to life. Thus both Lakshmi and Saraswati are needed to live a full life."

Sri Krishna

A long time ago in ancient India , there lived King Ugrasen. He had two children, prince Kansa and princess Devaki. Prince Kansa was evil by nature. When Kansa grew up, he imprisoned his own father Ugrasen and made himself king.
Soon, his sister Devaki was married to King Vasudev. However, after the wedding, Kansa heard a divine warning from the sky, "O King! Your sister’s eighth son will grow up to kill you." After Kansa heard this, he was afraid. Immediately he imprisoned his own sister Devaki and her husband king Vasudev, and kept them under continuous watch.
Sri Krishna Birth
Each time Devaki gave birth to a child in the prison, Kansa arrived personally and killed the child. When Devaki became pregnant for the eighth time, King Vasudev’s friend’s (King Nanda’s) wife Yashoda was also pregnant. The eighth child, Lord Krishna, was born to queen Devaki at midnight in the prison. As soon as the child was born, Lord Vishnu appeared in divine form and the prison was filled with a dazzling light. Both Devaki and Vasudev prayed to Lord Vishnu. At the same time as Lord Krishna was born in the prison, the divine energy of Lord Vishnu was born in Gokul, as a baby girl to queen Yashoda.
A divine message came to Vasudev soon after the birth of Lord Krishna, "Take this child across the Yamuna River to Gokul and exchange him with Yashoda’s daughter. You will return to the prison before anyone comes to know about the birth of this child."
Vasudev immediately followed the advice. As he carried the child in his arms, he found that the prison doors opened automatically and the guards were put to sleep by God. Vasudev approached the Yamuna River , which was very turbulent due to fierce winds and rain. However, as soon as Vasudev reached the riverbank, the river parted and made way for Vasudev carrying the divine child. Vasudev reached the opposite bank of the river safely and found all the people of Gokul fast asleep. He entered the palace of king Nanda and queen Yashoda, and put the baby Krishna in the place of Yashoda’s baby girl. Then Vasudev returned to the prison with the baby girl.
As soon as Vasudev laid the baby girl by Devaki’s side, the prison doors shut automatically. The guards were now awake and were startled by the cries of the baby girl. The guards ran to Kansa and announced the birth of the eighth child.
Kansa rushed to execute the child in the prison, remembering the divine warning that the eighth child would kill him. Devaki appealed, "O Kansa, this baby is a girl, and not the boy that the divine warning told you about. How can this child harm you?" However, Kansa ignored her, snatched the child from her lap, and hurled the child against the prison wall.
The child did not fall down; instead, she flew up and appeared in the sky as a Goddess with eight arms, each arm carrying a weapon. She said, "O evil king! You will gain nothing by killing me. The one who will destroy you is elsewhere." Then the Goddess disappeared.
Kamsa was frightened. The inevitable seems to have happened in spite of all his efforts, What is he to do now? He consulted his ministers and they advised him that all male infants who were born in the last few weeks in his kingdom should be killed. Kamsa ordered his men to seek and kill all newborn male babies. Soon, word reached him that a baby boy was born in Gokul a few days back. He sent the asura woman Pootana to seek him out and kill him.
Pootana
Pootana, the demon woman, knew that she could not kill the baby Krishna if his parents knew of her true identity. By means of her magic, the fiery looking Pootana transformed herself in to a beautiful motherly woman and entered Gokul. She carried poison in her breasts. She visited Yashoda’s house and seeing the baby Krishna sleeping in the bassinet, she admired Him so much that Yashoda thought that she was really a good woman fond of Krishna . Thus, when Pootana made a request to let her give Krishna her breast to feed Him, Yashoda was hesitant at first but yielded to Pootana’s insistent appeals to her motherly feelings. Pootana took the baby Krishna in to her lap and began feeding Him her poison. Krishna of course knew her tricks and her true identity. He sucked the poisoned milk out of her breast along with her life force itself. Pootana screamed in pain and lay dead immediately. Yashoda and her friends came out to see what had happened. To their horror they saw a great asura woman lying dead and Krishna playing on her body innocently. Pootana’s body was so big that Nanda and his neighbors had to cut it in to several pieces so they could carry and cremate them.
Bakasura
Bakasura is again one of the asuras contracted by Kamsa to kill. Bakasura was the brother of Putana, whose story is given earlier. Bakasura took the form of a giant bird and terrorised the cowherds and cowherdesses of Gokul. Krishna , in an act of bravery entered the beak of the bird, and then the bird closed its beak. But Krishna wriggled round and round inside so as to make Bakasura uneasy and ultimately Bakasura had to vomit Krishna out and he died on the spot.
Similar to Bakasura, his brother Aghasura was similarly deputed by Kamsa. But Krishna again vanquished him too who took the form of a giant serpent, by going inside and wriggling his body.
Nalakubara and Manigriva
One day Yashoda was churning butter when Krishna wanted her to feed Him. Yashoda put aside the churning and sat down to feed Him. Just then she noticed the milk on the stove boiling over. So she sat Krishna down and rushed off to attend to the boiling milk. Krishna got angry for the interruption and He broke the butter pot and started eating the butter. When Yashoda noticed this, she became angry. Krishna noticing His mother’s anger started running out of the kitchen when Yashoda thought that He must be punished for His impatience. She followed Krishna , and after running around in circles for a while, she had gotten hold of Him. But she could not bring herself to give any kind of physical punishment to Him. So she tied Him to a heavy stone mortar so He will stay put for a while. Krishna however dragged the heavy mortar outside and right through the middle of two tall sala trees. The mortar got lodged between the two trees but Krishna pulled on it so hard that the two trees fell down with a big noise. Everyone got alarmed by the noise of the falling trees and rushed to the scene. To their surprise, they saw Krishna unharmed and two gandharvas making obeisance to Him. They were Nalakubara and Manigriva, the sons of Kubera the guardian of money for the gods. They had been cursed by Narada to be born as trees for insulting him. Narada later granted that they would be rescued by Krishna from their existence as trees. Now Krishna has fulfilled Narada’s promise to them.
Undeterred, Kamsa sent several asuras to kill Krishna . The demons came in various forms: Trinavarta in the form of a tornado, Aghasura in the form of a giant serpent, Vatsasura in the form of a calf and many other asuras in many deceitful forms to kill the child Krishna but He killed them all to the wonder and amazement of the residents of Gokul. All the efforts of Kamsa to kill Him thus did not succeed and Krishna was growing up under the love and care of Yashoda and Nanda.
Entire Universe
But Yashoda could not see Him as anything but her lovable cuddly baby. His child-like behavior annoyed her at times but mostly she was greatly amused by his creativity for mischief. One day, his friends including Balarama told her that Krishna had been eating mud. She was angry with disgust at the thought of Him eating mud and dirt. So she pulled Him aside and confronted Him to tell her the truth if He had been eating mud. Krishna replied, "Mother, why would I eat mud when there is so much butter and milk around? These kids just want to get me in trouble with you. Before you decide to punish me, why don’t you look in my mouth and even smell it to see if what they say is true?" So saying He opened His mouth wide so Yashoda could see inside of His mouth. Yashoda almost fainted with the sight. She saw the entire universe inside Krishna ’s mouth. The planets including the earth with all its life forms, the stars, the heaven and the entire creation was visible to her. She was bewildered and confused by that grand vision which was not possible for even the highest yogis. But soon Krishna became a child again and Yashoda recovered from Her vision. She forgot her line of thought and picked up Krishna and busied herself in coddling Him.
As Krishna was growing up, He delighted His mother with many lovable mischievous acts. His favorite pastime was to steal butter from the neighbors’ houses who could not succeed in hiding it from him no matter how much they tried. When they tried to confront Him, He would disarm them with His charm. However, when He started to includ His friends in the mischief of distributing the milk and curds to monkeys, the women of Gokul could not keep quiet. They complained to His mother, Yashoda, about His mischief. In despair they told Yashoda that they can no longer tolerate His mischief and would rather leave the village than put up with it. Yashoda at first accused them of exaggerating but soon she pacified them by her reconciliatory apologetic words. She could not bring herself to punish Krishna , however.
Krishna steals Gopis’ clothes
Krishna loved to tease the girls of Gokul, the Gopis. They all loved Him dearly because He also loved them much. In His infinite mercy, He wanted to make the Gopis realize the highest spiritual Truth through Him. That was possible only if they surrendered to Him completely. One day He got His chance when all the young ladies went swimming in Yamuna. They had taken their clothes off and entered the waters leaving the clothes on the bank. Krishna approached the site stealthily and took off with all their clothes and climbed up a nearby tree. When the Gopis realized that their clothes were gone, they looked up and saw Krishna up in the tree. They quickly sank in to the water up to their necks and pleaded with Krishna to return their saris and cholis but he would not heed. He told them that He would return their clothing only if they accepted him as the Supreme God and there was no place for false modesty before Him. The Gopis came out of the water one by one and accepted Krishna as their Saviour.
Kaliya Mardanam
A huge poisonous serpent with many hoods called Kaliya, made a lake in the river Yamuna its home. The lake and waters of Yamuna were being poisoned by it. The residents of Brindavan were very afraid of the serpent and avoided the lake altogether. Krishna decided that it was time to get the serpent out of the lake and restore it to the people of Brindavan.
Once Krishna and herdboys were playing ball, and while playing Krishna climbed up the Kadamba tree and hung over the river bank, the ball fell into the river and Krishna jumped after it. Kāliyā rose up with his hundred and ten hoods vomiting poison and wrapped himself around Krishna 's body. Krishna became so huge that Kāliyā had to release him. So Krishna saved himself from every attack, and when he saw the Brij folk were so much afraid he suddenly sprang into Kāliyā's head and assumed the weight of the whole universe, and danced on the naga's heads, beating time with his feet. Then Kāliyā began to die. But then the naga's wives came and prayed to Krishna with joined palms, worshipping Krishna and praying for their husband.
Kāliyā, recognizing the greatness of Krishna , surrendered, promising he would not harass anybody. So Krishna pardoned him and then let him go free to leave the river and go to Ramanaka Dwipa.
His friends saw this and ran back to the village to inform Yashoda and others. When they arrived, they saw Krishna being crushed by the serpent’s coils. They were all anxious and Yashoda started crying. Krishna could not see His mother cry so he decided to get Himself free from the serpent. He expanded Himself until the serpent could no longer hold him and lost its grip. Then Krishna jumped up on to the top of the serpent’s hoods and started dancing so hard that it could not bear the pain. Krishna danced on its hood for so long that the serpent fainted.
Lifting of Govardhana
One year there were no rains in Brindavan and the Gokul community was worried. They started preparations to do a yajna (sacrifice) to appease the rain god Indra, the king of heaven. Krishna , however, did not want them to worship any demi god like Indra. He told them not to make the yajna in honor of Indra as He, the Supreme Lord, would take care of them. So the people of Brindavan did not perform the yajna which made the rain god Indra very angry. He sent a torrential rain with hail storm over Brindavan. It rained for several days and the storm was so fierce that all the inhabitants Brindavan were afraid for their cattle and lives. To protect them, Krishna lifted the Govardhana mountain with his little finger on His left hand and asked everyone to take shelter under it from the hail storm. Indra rained hail for several days but could not harm them in any way because they were shielded by the mountain that Krishna had lifted on His finger. He realized that Krishna was indeed the Supreme God and apologized to Krishna who forgave him and sent him back to heaven. A grateful community of Brindavan praised Krishna as the Supreme Lord.
Krishana Leela
It was spring in Brindavan. The flowers were blossoming. The autumn season was very pleasant on the banks of Yamuna whose sandy beach glistened in moon light. Krishna loved to play his flute and He was so good at it that even the animals and birds were mesmerized by its sound. On one full moon night He started playing the flute which could be heard by the gopis in the Brindavan. The Gopis were so excited and enamored by the sound, that they forgot themselves and their families and ran to meet Krishna on the banks of Yamuna. Some were milking the cows but they left the milking undone and left. Some were making themselves up for the night and they left for Krishna half made-up. Some were feeding their husbands and families and they left them in the middle of their meal. Neither their husbands, nor their parents, nor their brothers, nor their in-laws could stop them from leaving their homes for the banks of Yamuna where Krishna played His flute.
When they reached the shore of Yamuna , Krishna tried to send them back even though He knew fully well that there was no turning back for the Gopis. He told them that they should not come in the middle of the night to meet a stranger and that they should respect their husbands and parents. So the best thing for them to do was to return to their homes. The Gopis were very sad on hearing Krishna ’s words asking them to go back. They pleaded with Him to accept their love for Him. They told Him that they could not live without Him. So Krishna agreed to dance with them. He expanded Himself in to many Krishnas and made a circle such that each Gopi was surrounded by a Krishna and each Krishna was surrounded by a Gopi. In this circle, Krishna danced with all the Gopis on the banks of Yamuna. Then He lead them in to the water and sported with them on that moonlit night in the cool waters of Yamuna.
Among the Gopis, was Radha, the childhood devotee of Krishna . Due to their eternal love, Lord Krishna is also popularly known as Radha-Krishna. Their love story symbolizes the love between God and Human.
Radha
Radha, daughter of Vrishabhanu, was Krishna 's lover during that period of his life when he lived among the cowherds of Vrindavan. Since childhood they were close to each other - they played, they danced, they fought, they grew up together and wanted to be together forever, but the world pulled them apart.
Radha, the milkmaid, was given in marriage to Rayana. But her heart belonged to Krishna , the divine cowherd of Gokul. On moonlit nights, beckoned by the music of his flute, she would leave her house, risk infamy, ignore danger, and go to the banks of Yamuna to be by Krishna 's side. Together they would dance and sing in the flowery meadows of Madhuvana.
But alas, a time came when Krishna had to leave Madhuvana and go to Mathura to fulfil his destiny as guardian of earth. As he rode away, Krishna gave up his flute, for without Radha his music lacked the flavour of love.Krishna,it is said, conceived the cosmos inspired by Radha's beauty. Though united in heaven, Krishna and Radha were forever apart on earth, their longing transforming into man's insatiable desire. The constant desire to become one with the Divine.
He departed to safeguard the virtues of truth, and she waited for him. He vanquished his enemies, became the king, and came to be worshipped as a lord of the universe. She waited for him.
Kamsa
Krishna’s youth was thus spent among the Gopis who loved Him more than their lives. But soon Kamsa sent Akrura to fetch Him. It was time for Krishna to fulfill His greater mission of getting rid of Kamsa. He made the trip to Mathura city with His brother Balarama. The citizens of Mathura were mesmerized by the two handsome brothers from Brindavan. They all came out see them. Krishna got Himself some new clothes to wear from the king’s clothier. A hunchback lady named Kubja offered Him some perfumes and lotions that she was taking to the palace. In return, Krishna straightened her up by pulling her up by the shoulders. Kubja was very grateful and asked Krishna to accept her invitation to her house. Krishna promised to see her after He had finished His mission in Mathura .
When they arrived at Kamsa’s palace, the brothers were attacked by an elephant named Kuvalaya. Krishna killed the elephant very easily. Then an asura wrestler named Chanoora was ordered by Kamsa to attack Krishna . In the ensuing fight, Krishna killed Chanoora very easily. Infuriated, Kamsa himself now attacked Krishna . They fought a very ferocious battle but in the end Krishna killed Kamsa.
Life in Mathura
Krishna and Balarama met their parents, but Devaki and Vasudeva were struck with awe seeing the prophecy fulfilled, and because of a feeling of reverence they were afraid to embrace their sons. After that incident, Krishna and Balarama entered the gurukula and became princes in the court of Yadu.
In Mathura, both Krishna and Balarama were initiated by Gargamuni in the Gayatri mantra Later They went to live under the care of Sandipani Muni who instructed Them in all the Vedic arts and sciences in sixty-four days and nights especially in military science, politics and spirituality.Upon completion of their studies, they persuaded the teacher to ask for the preceptor’s dakshina (fees) of his liking. Sandipani asked for, as his dakshina, the restoration of his child lost in the ocean at Prabhaas. Saying, ‘So be it’, the two brothers went to Prabhaasa and found that the son was taken by the demon Panchajan, who lived under the waters in the shape of a conch. Not finding the son within the conch, Sri Krishna and Balaram took the conch and went to Yama, and blew the conch. Yama worshipped both of them saying, ‘O Vishnu (the all-pervading Lord), disguised as a human being by way of leela (sport), what can we do for you both?’ The glorious Lord said: ‘Impelled by My command, O great ruler, fetch My preceptor’s son, who was brought here as a result of his own Karma.’ Being brought back to life, they handed over to their preceptor his son.
For the next eighteen years, They continued to live in Mathura halting the impending threat of many demonic kings. Later in Their pastimes Lord Balarama married a princess named Revati.
Rukmini
Bheeshmaka, the king of Vidarbha had two children, Prince Rukmi and Princess Rukmini. Bheeshmaka had heard many stories of Krishna 's valor and secretly wished him to be his son-in-law. He knew that it might not be possible as Kamsa's father in law, Jarasandha, was their overlord and he was Krishna 's sworn enemy.
Now Rukmi was a friend of Kamsa and owed his allegiance to Jarasandha. He wanted his younger sister to marry Shishupala, the crown prince of Chedi, who also was favored by Jarasandha.
Rukmini had heard stories of Krishna 's valour from her childhood and she had her heart set on marrying him. When she heard that Rukmi had chosen Shishupala for her, she resolved that she would only marry Krishna or die. She sent for her trusted aid Sunanda, a wise old Brahman. She wrote a note to Krishna telling him that he was the only husband for her and asked if he would come and take her away. She wrote to him, that if he wouldn't have her, she would give up her life. She also begged him that he spare the lives of her family whilst kidnapping her. She wrote that on the day of the wedding, she would go to the temple of the Goddess Parvati (their family deity) and if he would, that was the right time to kidnap her. She sent Sunanda with the note to Dwarka ( Krishna 's new fortress home).
Krishna had heard a lot about Rukmini's beauty too. He longed to have her but wasn't sure if he should approach her family, as they owed their allegiance to Jarasandha. Upon receiving the message from her, he resolved to kidnap her. Now Jarasandha who knew that Krishna might try something like that to humiliate him, filled Vidarbha with people loyal to him.
Krishna went to Vidarbha first and Balrama followed with the army. On the wedding day, when Rukmini was leaving the temple, she looked in the crowds for Krishna . She did not see him. As she was about to enter her chariot and leave, she felt someone hold her from behind. It was Krishna . He lifted her into the chariot and sped away.
Jarasandha was furious. He rallied all his men and ordered them to chase Krishna . Jarasandha's men followed Krishna but were ambushed by Balrama and his army on the outskirts of the city. Now Rukmi managed to go through Balrama's army and catch up with Krishna and Rukmini. He swore that he would not return to his city without his sister.
Rukmi fired an arrow at Krishna, but it did not even make a dent in Krishna 's divine armour. Krishna then fired multiple arrows, which first killed Rukmi's horses and then shattered his chariot. Rukmi then picked up his bow again, but before he could fire, Krishna shot another arrow and shattered Rukmi's bow. Rukmi now mad with rage picked up his sword and ran towards Krishna . Krishna fired another arrow and split Rukmi's sword in two. Krishna then picked up his sword and was about to attack Rukmi when Rukmini begged her lord to spare her brother's life. On Rukmini's saying, Krishna spared Rukmi's life but cut half the hair on his head and half the moustache on his face, the worst insult a warrior could face, and then let him go. Krishna returned to Dwarka with Rukmini and made her his bride.
Satyabhama
Satyabhama was the daughter of Satrajit who owned the Syamantaka jewel. Satrajit, who secured the jewel from Surya, and would not part with it even when Krishna the Lord of Dwarka, asked for it saying it would be safe with him. Shortly thereafter, Prasena, the brother of Satrajit went out hunting wearing the jewel but was killed by a lion. Jambavan, known for his role in the Ramayana, killed the lion and gave the jewel to his son to play with. When Prasena did not return, Satrajit falsely accused Krishna of killing Prasena for the sake of the jewel.
Krishna, in order to remove the stain on his reputation, set out in search of the jewel and found it in Jambavan's cave, with his child. Jambavan attacked Krishna thinking him to be an intruder who had come to take away the jewel. They fought each other for 28 days, when Jambavan, his whole body terribly weakened from the hammering of Krishna 's fists, finally recognised Him as Rama and surrendered.
As repentance for his having fought Krishna, Jambavan gave Krishna the jewel and also his daughter Jambavati in marriage. Krishna returned the jewel to Satrajit, who in turn repented for his false accusation. He promptly offered to give Krishna the jewel and his daughter Satyabhama in marriage. Krishna accepted Satyabhama as His wife but did not accept the jewel.
Narakasura
Bhoomi Devi (mother Earth) had a son named Naraka. Even though Naraka was the son of a divinity, he had the nature of a demon. Naraka was powerful and he took pleasure in terrorising the inhabitants of the three worlds.
Narakasura would raid and plunder the kingdoms of the three worlds. He did not even leave the women and would kidnap them for his own personal harem. Narakasura heard that Indra, the king of the devas, had thousands of divine elephants in his army. Now Narakasura, greedy that he was, wanted to possess everything, so he attacked the heavens.
Indra was helpless as he watched Naraka's minions plunder the heavens. Naraka himself began pursuit of the devas. While pursuing the devas, a glimmering object far away caught his eye. Upon inspection, he realised that the glimmering object was mother Aditi's (the mother of the devas) earrings. He assaulted mother Aditi and grabbed her earrings.
Now Indra, feeling humiliated at his loss and even worse that his mother was assaulted, wanted revenge and he knew that there was only one person who was a match for Naraka. It was Krishna .
Indra reached Krishna's palace when Krishna was spending quality time with his wife Satyabhama. He told Krishna about the happenings and begged him for his help. Krishna was enraged that Naraka might lay his hands on mother Aditi and said that Naraka must die for his insolence.
Satyabhama looked annoyed because Krishna was about to leave her. Wanting to please both Satyabhama and Indra, Krishna decided to take Satyabhama with him into battle.
Krishna summoned his mount Garuda (a giant eagle) and made way towards Naraka's fortress. An impenetrable barrier of magic mountains surrounded Naraka's fortress. The mountains were such that a barrier would come up from any side that Krishna tried to enter the fortress. Krishna , unperturbed, hurled his mace at the barrier and shattered the entire mountain range in one blow. A downpour of magical weapons rained down on them. Krishna fired multiple arrows and destroyed all the weapons. In this manner Krishna destroyed countless other magical barriers and finally reached Naraka's fortress.
Naraka's palace was guarded by the five-headed demon Mura. Mura hurled countless weapons at Krishna, but Krishna shot each one down with his bow and arrow. Then Krishna picked up his flying discus and hurled it towards Mura dislocating Mura's five heads. Mura fell to the ground, dead.
Krishna challenged Naraka to battle and killed him easily. Bhoomi Devi then sang hymns in praise of Krishna and begged him to take Naraka's son Bhagdatta under his protection. Krishna placed Bhagdatta on the throne and then freed all of Naraka's prisoners. The devas showered Krishna with flowers from the heavens.
Krishna's and Satyabhama's victory on Narakasura translated into freedom for all his prisoners and honoring of Aditi. Having rescued the 16,100 women, Krishna married them to restore them to their former dignity.
Tulabharam
Satyabhama, another queen of Krishna, prides herself about the love Krishna has for her and her grasp over his heart. Rukmini, on the other hand is a devoted wife, humble in her service of her Lord. Her devotion is her real inner beauty. On one contrived occasion, the sage Narada arrived in Dwaraka and in the course of conversation hinted to Satyabhama that the love that Krishna exhibits towards her is not all that real and in fact it is Rukmini who has real control over his heart. Unable to bear this, Satyabhama challenges Narada to prove it. Narada, with his way with words, tricked her into accepting a Vrata (ritual) where she has to give Krishna away in charity to Narada and reclaim him by giving the weight of Krishna in wealth. Narada lures her into accepting this vrata by telling her that Krishna ’s love to her will increase many folds if she succeeds in performing this Tulabharam. He also instigates her ego by hinting that her wealth may not be sufficient to equal the weight of Krishna . With Satyabhama's ego duly raised, she tells Narada that she can mobilize so much wealth that it is a child’s play for her to outweigh Krishna . Narada warns her that if she is not able to do this, Krishna will become his slave to be done with as he pleases.
The scene is soon set for the vrata. Satyabhama gives Krishna away in charity in spite of the other wives’ pleadings. Krishna , always the mischievous cowherd, meekly submits to this drama. After donating Krishna to Narada, Satyabhama arranges for a big scale to be put up and sends with all assurance for her huge treasure of gold and jewellery. All that she has is soon put on the scale, but it doesn’t budge. Narada starts taunting her and threatening her that if she can’t put enough gold or diamonds, he will be forced to auction Krishna as a slave to someone else. Satyabhama, in frantic panic, swallows her pride and begs all the other wives to give their jewels. They agree out of love for Krishna but alas, it is of no use.
Krishna remains a mute witness to all this drama and rubs salt into the open wounds of Satyabhama’s ego that he has now to become a slave to some cowherd and will have to suffer the separation from his dear wife. Narada suggests to Satyabhama that Rukmini may be able to get her out of the predicament. She finally swallows her pride and appeals to the devoted first wife of Krishna . Rukmini comes and with a prayer to her husband puts a single leaf of the sacred Tulasi on the scale ( tula ). The scales then become all at once so heavy that even after removing all the jewels, the scales are weighed down on the side of the Tulasi leaf.

Sudama
Sudama was a poor brahmin boy who became a close friend of Krishna in sage Sandipani's hermitage. Krishna learnt to chant from Sudama.
Once, Sandipani's wife asked Sudama and Krishna to get some wood from the forest. While they were collecting the wood, a storm came and they got lost. Sudama was scared. Krishna held his arms and assured his safety. When the storm was over, they found their way to the hermitage. Sudama was relieved. Sandipani blessed them with a long life and happiness.

After completing their studies, Sudama and Krishna went their own ways. Krishna became the king of Dwarka and married princess Rukmini, the goddess of prosperity. Sudama, on the other hand, married a simple brahmin girl and began to lead the life of a devotee, reading scriptures, praying, forsaking worldly pleasures. Everyone loved Sudama. His family was quite happy.
Then Sudma's wife gave birth to two children. Because of Sudama's austere life style, the family began to face difficult days, with little food to eat and no clothes to wear. Sudama's wife was extremely devoted to her husband but when her children began to suffer, she was concerned.
Finally on a cold night, when her children were without blanket, she approached Sudama and humbly said, "Aren't you and Krishna , the lord of Dwarika, friends? And, Krishna married to the goddess of prosperity, Rukmini?"
Sudama replied, "Yes."
Sudama's wife dreamed of seeing an improvement in her family's poor condition. She earnestly said, "Go my lord, I beseech you, for the sake of our dear children, meet Krishna ."
The very prospect of meeting Krishna , his old friend, made Sudama happy. "I will go and see him, but I will not ask him for anything." Sudama's wife could hardly conceal her joy. She happily said, "Even a visit to Krishna will bless our family. Do not ask anything from him. I will be content my lord."
Just before his departure for Dwarka, Sudama came to his wife. Both had the same thought. "What will I give to Krishna when I see him after such a long time?"
Sudama's wife suddenly remembered, "My lord you used to tell me that Krishna immensely loved Powa, the flattened rice!" Sudama too remembered Krishna 's great liking for Powa. Sudama's wife ran to her neighbor's house and they happily gave her the gift of Powa in a small bundle. Sudama then set out on his long journey to Dwarka.
When Sudama came to the palace, surprisingly enough, no one stopped him. He looked through various rooms and finally located Krishna and Rukmini. When Krishna saw Sudama he ran to embrace him. Then Krishna sat down and washed Sudama's tired feet with warm water and put sandalwood paste on them.
After the royal meal, they all settled down to chat. Krishna and Sudama exchanged the happenings of their lives since they departed from Sandipani's hermitage. Suddenly Krishna noticed a small bundle on Sudama's waist. He remarked, "Ah! You have brought a present for me!"
Sudama hesitated, "How do I give a king, a poor man's Powa?" When Krishna noticed that Sudama was ashamed to give him the bundle, he remarked, "Sudama, the poorest gifts given to me with love is dearer to me than the richest of gifts given without love." Krishna was thoughtful, "He has not come to ask anything for himself. He came out of love for his wife and me." Then he quickly snatched off the bundle and opened it. There it was, his favorite Powa! He tossed some in his mouth with great satisfaction. Then they talked and talked, as old friends, to their heart's content. Sudama could not ask anything from Krishna .
Next morning Sudama bid Krishna and Rukmini farewell. The long road back home did not seem to be that hard as he thought of Krishna . When he reached home, he was amazed to see that a huge mansion was standing in place of his poor hut. His wife and children, wearing new clothes, came to receive him. He could hardly recognize them. Sudama felt the touch of the all-knowing Krishna who had rewarded Sudama for his gift of love.
Sudama continued to lead the life of a hermit while his family enjoyed the generous gifts of wealth from Krishna .
Balarama
Both Krishna and Balarama established Their palaces in Dvaraka off the coast of western India , where They enjoyed married life for many years. Although They were married, Lord Krsna and Lord Balarama exhibited the quality of detachment from material life perfectly.
When they were about ninety years old, the great world war of Kuruksetra took place. This climactic battle brought together all the major world leaders. Lord Krishna took the role of a charioteer on the side of the pious Pandavas, while Lord Balarama refusing to participate went on a pilgrimage tour thereby blessing the entire land of India .
Mahabharatha
In the time of Krishna , the blind King Dhritarastra headed the lunar dynasty in Hastinapur. Dhritrashtra and Pandu are the sons of Shantanu. Dhritarastra's wife, Queen Gandhari, had one hundred sons called the Kauravas, the oldest of whom was Duryodhana who along with his uncle Shakuni. Also in the royal palace were Grandfather Bhisma, the king's uncle, and Queen Kunti and her five sons. Kunti's late husband, Pandu, was King Dhritarastra's brother.
Krishna was also Kunti's nephew, because her brother, Vasudeva, was Krishna 's father. She grew up away from her family, in the palace of Kuntibhoja , her cousin. When she was a child, Kunti had pleased the powerful sage Durvasa Muni, who gave her a mantra that would allow her to conceive five sons from the demigods. She tested the mantra and the Sun God gave her Karna, whom she secretly set afloat in a river. Karna grew up to become a great warrior for the Kauravas.
The whole rigmarole starts when Dhritrashtra, though being the elder son, does not succeed to the throne because he is blind. Pandu does, and that makes fertile ground for future rivalries to gain ground especially when Pandu dies and Dhritrashtra becomes the regent of his children and the throne.The bitterness between the two families starts taking shape early even in school days. and as the children grow, things get progressively worse as the Kauravas repeatedly attempt to assassinate their more popular and accomplished cousins.
Bhima caused problems with the other children, because he was a bully. In retaliation, the Kaurava brothers once tied him up and threw him in the ocean, but Bhima returned with added siddhis (yogic powers), annoying them all the more.
At this time Grandfather Bhisma enrolled the Pandava and Kaurava brothers in archery training under the renowned archer, Drona. At the end of their lessons, Arjuna ranked first place in Drona's tests, and this was another factor to incite jealousy in the Kauravas. As a final request to his students (guru-dakshine), Drona asked them to arrest a neighboring king, Drupada, and bring him there for justice. The Kauravas failed, but Arjuna succeeded, increasing the Pandava's status. However, that was nothing compared to the trouble that starts when the Pandavas demand their kingdom back from their uncle.
Vasudeva meet Kunti
On the occasion of a solar eclipse, all the royal families traveled to Kurukshetra to observe religious rites. When the royal families met their relations in Kurukshetra, there were great exchanges of love. At this meeting, Vasudeva and Kunti, who were brother and sister, lamented their long separation. Kunti complained about all she had been through due to Duryodhana. Vasudeva reminded her that he loved her and would have been there to help, except that his life was also miserable due to Kamsa's persecutions.
Kauravas & Pandavas
Feeling angry and jealous of the Pandavas, Duryodhana made a plan to kill them, on a family pilgrimage, he built a house of lac for them, and then his servants set it on fire. The Kauravas thought the Pandavas were dead, but they had escaped through an underground tunnel and lived anonymously in the forest for a time.
Droupadi
Finally, they heard about and engagement contest (svayamvara) for the hand of the Princess of Panchali, Droupadi, and went there in disguise. The object of the svayamvara was that the contestants had to string a heavy bow and shoot five arrows into the eye of a fish that was dangling on a target in a courtyard. Many princes had gathered, including the Kauravas, but Arjuna won the competition and brought Droupadi back to the forest retreat with him. The other princes were unhappy at losing Droupadi. When they arrived home with Droupadi, Arjuna told his mother that he had won a great prize that day. Without knowing what it was, Kunti instructed her sons to divide it equally among themselves, and thus they all shared Droupadi as their bride.
When Lord Krishna visits the family, he explains to Draupadi that her unique position as the wife of five brothers results from a certain incident in her previous birth. She had in that lifetime prayed to Lord Shiva to grant her a husband with five desired qualities. Lord Shiva, pleased with her devotion, tells her that it is very difficult to get a husband with all five qualities that she desired. But she sticks to her ground and asks for the same. Then Lord Shiva grants her wish saying that she would get the same in her next birth. Hence she gets married to five brothers each who represents a given quality.
When Krishna had come to Indraprastha, he had his finger cut due to a glass piece. Draupadi quickly comes and tears a piece from her saree and ties it on Krishna ’s finger.
Krishna then says: I give you a boon that you will receive sarees counting upto a ten thousand times of the no. of threads in this piece of saree.
“But what use is it to me?” said Draupadi
Krishna laughs and gets silent.
Everyone was joyful to find the Pandavas still alive, and married into a prominent ruling family, and so King Dhritarastra invited them to come back to Hastinapura and told his sons to give Yudhistira half the kingdom. Yudhistira built his palace and lived peacefully with his brothers, Droupadi and their other wives.
King Dhritarastra came on the scene and gave everything back to the Pandavas and sent them home. Soon after that, despite warnings and protests from all sides, Duryodhana convinced Yudhistira to play dice again, and Yudhistira lost again.
Yudhishthir lost all his wealth and kingdom one by one. Having lost all material wealth, he went on to put his brothers at stake one by one and lost them too. Ultimately he put himself at stake, and lost again. All the Pandavas were now the slaves of Kauravas. But for the Machiavellian Shakuni, the humiliation of Pandavas was not complete. He plods Yudhishthir that he has not lost everything yet. Yudhishthir still has Draupadi with him and if he wishes he can win everything back by putting Draupadi at stake. Yudhishthir walks into the trap and to the horror of everybody present, puts Draupadi as a bet for the next round. Shakuni rolls the dice and gleefully shouts “Look, I have won”
Duryodhan commands his younger brother Dushasan to forcefully bring into the forum. Dushasan barges into the living quarters of Draupadi who had just finished her bath and was drying her loose hair. Dushasan grabs her by the hair and brings her into the court dragging her by the hair. Unable to withstand the distress of his wife, an emotional Bheem even threatens to burn up Yudhishthir’s hands with which he placed Draupadi on stake. Arjun pacifies him.
Now in an emotional appeal to the elders present in the forum, Draupadi repeatedly questions the legality of the right of Yudhishthir to place her at stake when he himself had lost his freedom and as a consequence did not possess any property in the first place. Everybody remain dumbfounded. Bhishma, the patriarch of the Kuru family and a formidable warrior has only this lame explanation to offer to Draupadi - “The course of morality is subtle and even the illustrious wise in this world fail to always understand it”.
Kauravas now commands Pandavas to strip themselves in the manner of slaves. Pandavas obey by stripping off their upper garments. Then Kauravas demand the same from Draupadi, who remains crying in her hour of test. Then to the horror of everybody present Dushasan proceeds to strip Draupadi off her Sari. Seeing her husbands unable or unwilling to help her, Draupadi prays to Lord Krishna to protect her modesty. Lord Krishna now works a miracle so that as Dushasan unwraps layers and layers of her sari, her sari keeps getting extended. Seeing Draupadi being violated so brazenly, Bheem in a roaring rage vows to tear open Dushasan’s breast one day and drink his blood. Finally a tired Dushasan backs off without being able to strip Draupadi.
King Dhritarastra came on the scene and gave everything back to the Pandavas and sent them home. Soon after that, despite warnings and protests from all sides, Duryodhana convinced Yudhistira to play dice again, and Yudhistira lost again. Thus to satisfy the terms of the wager, Kunti, the Pandavas and Droupadi went to the forest for twelve years, and spent a additional year incognito.
Durvasa Muni
Once during the Pandavas’ stay in the forest, Durvasa, and ten thousand disciples Visited Duryodhana. As the sage was known to be Short-tempered, Duryodhana was much tensed and Took extreme care to receive him with respect and to Honor him. Durvasa was well pleased and offered A boon to Duryodhana. In stead of asking something For himself, Duryodhana was more concerned with Finding ways to destroy the Pandavas. So, he told The sage “Please visit our brothers dwelling in forest And bless them as you have blessed us.” He cleverly Suggested a time expected to be most inconvenient To the Pandavas; so they might not be able to please The sage and would certanily incur his wrath. They Would invite the sage’s curse! It was his stratagem.
As suggested by Duryodhana the sage visited the Pandavas, with his entourage of ten thousand. But The time of visit was inconvenient to the Pandavas. Durvasa told the Pandavas “We will be coming after Taking our bath in the river. Keep food ready for us Before we come back”. Pandavas were in trouble.
It was true that when the Pandavas commenced their Stay in the forest, the Sun god had given them a divine Vessel called Akshayapatra. It could provide unlimited Food till the Pandavas finished their meals every day. Thereafter it would be empty till the next day. Now the Pandavas including Draupadi, who used to eat last, had Finished their meals for the day. The vessel would not Produce any more food for that day. They felt helpless And did not know what to do. Draupadi fervently prayed To Sri Krishna “O! Krishna , please save us from the wrath Of sage Durvasa. We are in distress. Please don’t put us To further test” Krishna heard the prayer and appeared Before Draupadi. He said “I am very hungry. Please give Me some food. We will talk about other things later”
Draupadi was shocked. How can she feed Sri Krishna! Her sole support was deserting her to join the opponent. Draupadi appealed to Krishna “O! Krishna , in stead of Helping me you are only adding to my woes. You know There is no food left and the magic vessel cannot produce Any more food for the day” Krishna however insisted: “I can’t believe unless I see for myself. Please bring the Vessel “ When they looked into the vessel, sticking to the Side of the vessel there was a grain of rice and a bit of Cooked vegetable. Krishna ate these greedily, with relish.Draupadi felt ashamed that Krishna would take her for a Careless housewife who did not even clean the vessel.
Krishna told Bhima to go and tell the sage that food was Ready and that he could come with his disciples. Bhima Was puzzled. But he had full faith in Krishna . He went to Deliver the message. When he reached the river and gave The message the sage said “Bhima, we have already had Our full meals and we are immensely pleased. We ask for Yudhishthira’s forgiveness.” Saying this, Durvasa and his Disciples left the scene. Pandavas felt very much relieved.
The Pandavas migrated as far north as Badrikashram in the Himalayas for some years, then back to neighboring regions. Toward the end of their exile, the fighting between the Pandavas and Kauravas heated up again. Duryodhana and his men occasionally visited the Pandavas in the forest to pick fights. Another mortal enemy, Jayadrath, kidnapped Droupadi, but the Pandavas rescued her.
After satisfying the conditions of the dice game by living in exile, the Pandavas returned to Hastinapura to reclaim their kingdom, but Duryodhana refused to give them even a pinpoint of land. The situation between the Kauravas and Pandavas grew extremely tense. Krishna tried to make peace between the parties, but a war was destined to take place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
18-day war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas
The Kauravas have eleven divisions to stand against the seven of the Pandavas. The two armies are described as two oceans, crashing against each other.
Before the battle, Arjuna, seeing himself facing great-uncle Bhishma and his teacher Drona on the other side, has doubts about the battle and he fails to lift his Gandiva bow. Arjuna fears that acting out his own dharma as warrior will conflict with universal dharma: how can killing family members be good, and not disrupt the social order? Herein lies an unresolved conflict in Hinduism between universal dharma and svadharma (an individual's duty according to caste and station in life). A warrior must kill to fulfill his duty, whereas a brahmin must avoid harming any living creature. Even demons have their own castes and svadharma, which may run counter to human morality. One person's dharma may be another's sin.
His charioteer Krishna addresses him as they pause in the no-man's land between the two armies. This passage is the celebrated Bhagavad Gita, the guide to firm and resolute action.
On a hill overlooking the battlefield, Dhritarashtra hears the words of Krishna through his aid Sanjaya, who has been granted the ability to see and hear everything that happens in the battle, to relate these things to the blind king. Dhritarashtra shudders when he hears of Krishna ’s theophany, fearing that nothing can stop the Pandavas with such a powerful being on their side. But he takes some comfort in knowing that Krishna cannot accomplish everything he wants, as he failed to arrange a peaceful solution to the conflict.
After eighteen days, the war was over.
All the great heroes of the Kaurava dynasty, along with millions of soldiers, lay dead on the battlefield. Only the Pandavas and a small handful of others remained. Asvatthama, one of the remaining warriors, killed Draupadi's children in their sleep, hoping to end the royal lineage. Even though Prince Duryodhana wanted to find some last revenge, he was appalled by this atrocity and died of grief. The Pandavas arrested Asvatthama and brought him before Droupadi, but out of compassion she pleaded for his life. The shameless Asvatthama made one more attempt to kill the remaining heir, an unborn grandson in the womb of Uttara, Arjuna's wife. He hurled a brahmastra (nuclear) weapon at Uttara, and when she saw the missile coming toward her, she ran to Krishna for protection. Krishna , who was preparing to leave for His own kingdom, defeated the missile with his Sudarshan-chakra. The child Pariksit grew up to inherit the kingdom.
When Gandhari came to Kurukshetra and saw the corpses of her sons scattered on the battlefield, she blamed Krishna for everything. She cursed Him that in thirty-six years He would also lose everything and die, so that the women in His family would cry, just as she was crying. Then King Dhritarastra, Gandhari, Kunti and their gurus Vidura and Sanjaya left for the forest.
Demise of the Dynasties and Death of Krishna
The Pandavas lived in grief due to separation from their relatives. After six years, Yudhistira saw his mother in a dream and they all went to the forest to see her. They took Vyasa, a sage and grandfather in the family, with them. Gandhari and Kunti told Vyasa they wanted to see their dead relatives. Vyasa advised them to dip into the Ganges , which they did, and when they came out they saw Karna, Duryodhana and all the others standing on the bank of the river. Even the blind king Dhritarastra saw the vision. After the Pandavas returned to Hastinapura, two days later a forest fire killed Dhritarastra, Kunti and Gandhari.
Yudhistira had become king after the Great War, but reigned for only a few years before the family crowned Pariksit, Arjuna's son, as king. The Pandavas and Droupadi left their material engagements to prepare for the end of life (maha-prasthana). They departed for the Himalayas mountains where heaven is, walking in a line with Yudhistira first, then the other brothers, Droupadi, and finally Yudhistira's dog. As they climbed the mountains, first Droupadi died, then each of the brothers died, until finally Yudhistira reached the gates of heaven, followed only by the dog. Lord Indra was there to meet him. When Yudhistira realized that his brothers and wife were dead, he didn't want to go into heaven alone, but Indra said the others were already there waiting for him there, thus Yudhistira and the dog entered heaven with Lord Indra.
Along with the curse of Gandhari, another curse befell Krishna 's dynasty that contributed to its annihilation. Once some of Krishna 's sons were playing around and they dressed Samba as a pregnant woman, and brought him before some visiting sages Visvamitra, Kanva and Narada Muni. In jest they asked the sages to predict what kind of child Samba would give birth to. Insulted, the sages said he would give birth to an iron rod that would become the instrument to fulfill the prophecy of their dynasty's demise. Fearful and repentant, the boys asked Krishna what to do, but Krishna acknowledged the curse and said it was meant to be. When Samba delivered an iron rod the next day, the Yadavas ( Krishna 's sons) filed it into powder and threw it into the sea. Krishna enforced a prohibition on liquor in Dvaraka, hoping to avoid what was destined to come. Still evil omens began: rats multiplied and attacked humans in their sleep, sheep howled like jackals, asses were born from cows, and cats from mules. Krishna 's Sudarshan-chakra weapon disappeared into the sky.
Eventually the powder from the iron rod washed up on the shore and grew into arrow-like grass. The Yadavas became drunk and used the rods to kill each other. Even Krishna beat people out of anger. In this fratricidal war all the descendents of Krishna killed each other. Krishna sent His messenger Daruka to Hastinapura to inform Arjuna of the demise of the Yadava race, then consoled the women in the palace. He told his wives that Arjuna would take care of them and left for the forest. Krishna 's brother Balarama sat down under a tree and his life air came out of his mouth like a white serpent and entered the sea. Krishna roamed the forest for some time, then sat down to meditate. When a hunter named Jara came by, he mistook Krishna for a deer and shot an arrow into His foot. Krishna died at once and his spirit rose into heaven. Arjuna cremated Krishna and several of His principle queens died in the funeral pyre after Him. Arjuna left for Hastinapura with the remaining wives, but on the way, forest dwellers attacked and the women dove into the Satasvati River and died to escape.