Story 18 - The end of snake yajna

This is the story of the end of the snake yajna.

Since it began, millions of snakes were burned and destroyed in Janmayjay’s yajna. Only a few were remaining. At this, Vasuki was very disturbed. His heart started beating from nervousness. He called his sister Jaratkaru and said, “Sister! My body is burning and head is spinning. I am getting dizzy losing consciousness. The entire world is spinning around. My heart is tearing apart. I feel as if any moment I would helplessly jump into the yajna’s fire. This is the purpose of that yajna. I married you to Jaratkaru for this event only. Now, protect me. As Lord Brahma had said, your son Aastik will stop this yajna. Although still an adolescent, all gods and elders respect him. Ask him to protect us.”

When she heard this, the ascetic’s wife Jaratkaru convinced her son Aastik to protect snakes. Aastik acknowledged his mother’s request and told Vasuki, “O king of snakes! Be at peace. I can honestly say that I will free you sankes from the curse. I have never lied even in jest. So do not consider my claim to be empty. I will please king Janmayjay with my amiable words and he will stop the yajna. Uncle! Have faith in me.”

Assuring Vasuki, Aastik set off to free snakes from the curse. When he reached the croweded Yajna site, the gatekeeper prevented him from going inside. He sang praises for the king and pleaded with him to allow entry. The king heard him and gave him permission to enter.

In the yajna site, Aastik sang praises in honour of god and all the learned scholars gathered there. This impressed the gathered scholars. Janmayjay understood everyone’s feelings and said, “Although still a boy, his words are as pleasing and mature as elders. I am very pleased with this boy and wish to grant him a boon. Do you agree?” The people gathered there agreed in unison, “Even if a Brahmin is a child, he is an equal in the eyes of a king. If he is a scholar, then it is even better. Therefore, you can grant him his wish.”

Janmayjay said, “You people strive to ensure that my Yajna is successful and Takshak snake arrives. After all, he is my prime enemy.”

The sages replied, “God Agni has conveyed that Takshak is frightened and is under the shelter of God Indra.”

Upset at this news, Janmayjay retorted, “You people should chant and perform a ritual that Indra too is burned into this fire along with Takshak.”

When the sages heard Janmayjay’s request, they started chanting even more ardently than before. Suddenly, everyone saw Takshak and Indra in the sky. Indra was terrified when he saw the Yajna and ran off abandoning Takshak. At this, Takshak was petrified and lost consciousess. With every moment, he started getting closer to the fire.

The Brahmins then told the king, “O king! Your task is near completion. Now, give a boon to the Brahmin boy.”

Janmayjay said, “O Brahmin son! I want to give a boon to a charming and learned scholar like you. So ask happily whatever your desire. I will aim to fulfil your most difficult wish.”

Aastik saw that Takshak was on the verge of falling into the Yajna’s fire and he decided to use that opportunity. He called our three times, “Stop! Stop! Stop!” With this command, Takshak stayed still in the sky. Aastik then said, “O great king! If you want to give me a boon, then end this Yajna so that snakes’s lives are saved.”

At this request, Janmayjay was displeased and he said, “O capable Brahmin! Ask for gold, silver, cows, or any other thing. I do not want to stop this Yajna.”

Aastik replied, “I do not wish for any of these things. For the welfare of my mother’s family, I want to end this Yajna.”

Janmayjay repeated his request several times but Aastik did not budge from his wish. When the surrounded gathering of scholars heard this discourse, they said in unison, “This Brahmin should get what he is wishing for.”

When repeatedly pressed by his scholars, King Janmayjay acquiesced, “All right! May Aastik’s wish come true! End this Yajna. Aastik, be happy. What our charioteer had predicted, let that too come true.”

As soon as Janmayjay said these words, a huge cheer went up. The king donated several good things to the ascetic who had come to perform the Yajna. He greeted and gave donation to even the charioteer who had predicted the end of the Yajna. Finally, he greeted Aastik with open arms, offered him refreshments and rewards, and bade him goodbye with pleasure. While Aastik was leaving, Janmayjay requested him, “Please pay a visit during my Ashwamedha Yajna.” Aastik agreed with pleasure.

He then returned to his uncle’s house and told the good news to his mother.

At that time, Vasuki’s courtyard was full of snakes who were saved from the Yajna’s pyre. When they heard Aastik’s tale, they were very thrilled. They lovingly greeted him and said, “Son! Ask us a boon for whatever you wish.” They repeatedly said, “Son! You have saved us from the mouth of death. We are very pleased with you. Tell us, what we should do so that it pleases you.”

Aastik replied, “I wish for a boon that whoever reads this story with happiness during the morning or evening should have no danger from snakes.”

When snakes heard Aastik’s request, they were delighted and proud. They said, “Darling boy! Your wish will be true. We will fulfil your wish with love and humility. Whoever chants any one of Asit, Aartiman, or Sunith mantras during the day or night will remain safe and unharmed from snakes. These mantras are:

Asit mantra:
Yo Jaratkaruna Jaati Jaratkaro Mahayashaha
Aastikaha Sarpsatre Vaha Pannagaan Yoabhyarakshat
Tam Smarantam Mahabhaga Na Maam Hisitumahanth
Translation: ‘From the union of Jaratkaru ascetic with a Jaratkaru snake woman, a famous sage named Aastik was born. He had protected snakes during the snake yajna. O fortunate snakes! I am remembering him. Do not stab me.’

Aartiman mantra:
Sarpapsarp Bhadram Te Gach Sarp Mahavish
Janmayjasya Yagyante Aastikvachanam Smar
Translation: O might poisonous snake! Your go. May you have good fortune! Now you leave. Remember what Aastik had said at the end of Janmayjay’s Yajna.

Sunith mantra:
Aastikasya Bacha Shrutva Yaha Sarpo Na Nivartate
Shatdha Bhidyate Moorghin Shishvrikshphalam Yatha
Translation: The snake who will not return even after listening to Aastik’s promise, his hood will split into hundreds of pieces like Sheesham fruit.Th

is is the story how Aastik saved snakes from the snake Yajna. He lived a happy and fruitful life for several years and then went to heaven leaving behind several children and grand-children. Those who read Aastik’s story are safe from snakes.

Story 17 - The beginning of Snake Yajna

This is the story of the beginning of the Snake Yajna.

Janmayjay was deeply saddened when he heard how his father died. He grew restless with anger. Due to grief, he started breathing heavily and his eyes were filled with tears. He took water in his hand and pledged, “I have heard in detail how my father went to heavens. I have decided to avenge my father’s death from the evil soul Takshak. It was he who had killed my father; ascetic Shringi’s curse was just an excuse. A proof of this is that it was Takshak who had stopped that Kashyap Brahmin when he was on his way to revive my father. Takshak bribed the Brahmin and asked him to return. If that Brahmin had brought my father to life, then what was Takshak’s harm in that? The ascetic’s curse would have been true and my father would have been still alive. Takshak is totally responsible for my father’s death and therefore, I pledge to avenge my father’s death from him.”

Then, he summoned his astrologers and acetics and asked them, “The evil soul Takshak has killed my father. Now, tell me how I can take my revenge against him. Do you know any way by which I can burn cruel snakes in fire?”

The ascetics replied, “O king! Gods have already created a big Yajna for your purpose. This episode is very popular in Puranas. It is written in Puranas that no one else will perform this Yajna except you and we know its procedure.”

This assured Janmayjay that Takshak will now die in Yajna fire. He told the Brahmins, “I will perform this Yajna. Please collect proper ingredients for it.”

The philosophers and Brahmins then measured the land for Yajna mandap as per ancient Shastras. A special Yajna site was prepared and king Janmayjay arrived to begin the Yajna.

During that time, a strange event happened. A skilled, learned, experienced, and intelligent charioteer wondered aloud, “According to the place and time in which this Yajna has started, it seems that a Brahmin will interrupt this Yajna and will not let it complete.” King Janmayjay overheard this prediction and he immediately commanded the gate keepers to not allow anyone come inside without his permission.

The snake Yajna began with all rituals. The ascetics started chanting religious hymns. The Yajna fires were burning brightly. Their powers attracted snakes from all parts of the world. The snakes would helplessly fly in from the sky and fall into the fires. Their cries of help and agony surrounded the atmosphere. All sorts of snakes – white, black, blue, yellow, young, and old fell to a burning, painful death in Yajna's . Whether they were mile-long snakes or small baby ones – no one was safe from the rising flames.

Soon, the burned bodies of snakes started melting and a foul smell arose from their charred remains. When Takshak heard this news, he ran to the king of gods, Indra, for shelter. He pleaded, “O king of gods! I am guilty. I have come to you for shelter. Please save me.”

Indra smiled and said, “I have already requested Lord Brahma for your protection. You have nothing to fear from the snake yajna. Don’t worry.”

With this assurance from Indra, Takshak decided to stay in Indra’s palace only as he felt safe there.

Story 16 - Why Parikshit died?

This is the story of how King Parikshit, the only living decendant of Pandavas, died.

One day, King Janmayjay asked his ministers, “Why did my father die? What happened? I want to know the reason. This will help me make my decisions for the welfare of the people.”

His ministers replied, “Your highness! Your father was indeed a virtuous, generous, and kind king. Let us tell you more about him. Your father was an incarnation of dharma itself. He protected all his people equally, ruling them with firmness and kindness. His bravery was incomparable. He protected this entire earth. He had no enemies and he was enemy to none. According to him, all humans were equal. In his rule, people from all sections and castes lived happily and carried their duties. He had established welfare plans for widows, orphans, handicapped, and poor people. His people were healthy and strong. He was a decent and honest man. He had learned archery from Kripacharya. Lord Krishna was very affectionate towards your father. Because your father was born after the possession of Kauravas, he was named Parikshit (after-possess). He was very well-versed in politics and economics. He was an intelligent, good, and gallant king who ruled over 60 years in the kingdom. After that, he died leaving behind a mourning nation and leaving the kingdom to you.”

After listening to this discourse, Janmayjay wondered, “Ministers, you have still not answered my question. All the kings in our dynasty have been good and popular rulers. I want to know why my father died.”

Ministers said, “Your highness! Your father was very fond of hunting. He had left his governance to us. One day, he went to a forest. He targeted a deer but the deer ran. Chasing it, the king went deep into the forest but he could not find the deer anywhere. After all, he was a 60-year old man. So he was tired and hungry. After a while, he came across an ascetic named Shameek. Shameek had taken an oath of silence. The king asked him a question, but did not get a reply. This annoyed the king to a great extent. Without realizing that the ascetic had taken an oath of silence, the king decided to insult him for his impudence. He picked up a dead snake with his bow and placed it on the ascetic’s shoulder. Even then, Shameek was unprovoked and remained in meditation. Finally when he could not get any reaction from the ascetic, the king simply shrugged and returned to his kingdom.”

Now, Shameek had a son named Shringi. He was a splendid and powerful boy. When he heard from a friend that king Parikshit had insulted his father, he was furious. He took some water in his hand and cursed your father, “In seven days, the evil person who put a dead snake on my innocent father will be stabbed by the vicious snake, Takshak. Let the people watch my powers.”

After these words, Shringi went to his father and narrated the entire event to him. Shameek was not happy with this development. He immediately called one of his bright students named Gurumukh and sent a message to your father. When Gurumukh arrived in the palace, he announced, “My teacher has sent you this message, ‘O king! My son has cursed you, so please be careful. According to the curse, Takshak will stab you to death in seven days.’ At this death knell, your father became cautious and raised his vigilance.

On the seventh day when Takshak was on his way to kill your father, he saw a Brahmin named Kashyap hurrying along. He asked, “O good Brahmin! Where are you going in such hurry?” Kashyap replied, “I am going where a snake called Takshak is going to stab king Parikishit. I can revive the king after he is stabbed. If I am there, then Takshak will not be able to harm him.” Takshak was much surprised at the Brahmin’s confidence and he said, “I am Takshak. Why do you want to revive the king after I stab him? Look at my powers. You will not be able to stand in front of them.”

With these words, Takshak stabbed a tree. The tree immediately burned into ashes. Then, Kashyap Brahmin with his knowledge revived the tree and brought it back to life, green and vivid as before.

Realizing that his powers were futile in front of the Brahmin, Takshap decided to bribe him. He said, “Wish for whatever you desire from me.” At this, the Brahmin replied, “I am going for a reward from the king.” Takshak offered, “Take from me the amount you wish to ask from the king but return home.” At this promise, Kashyap Brahmin stated his price, which Takshak immediately paid. Kashyap collected the money and returned home.

After that, Takshak put on a disguise and stealthily entered the palace. He entered your father’s chambers and stabbed him to death. After his death, your coronation ceremony was conducted.
This is a very tragic tale. But since you insisted, we have narrated it to you. Takshak has stabbed your father and Uttank Brahmin is also miffed by him. Please do as you think appropriate.”

Janmayjay replied, “Ministers, this is indeed strange that Takshak stabbed a tree and burned it into ashes and a Brahmin revived the tree. Pray, how do you know this episode? Who told you about it? There is no doubt that Takshak has done a major grievance against my family. If he had not bribed that Brahmin with money and convinced him to return, then my father would have been alive today. I will punish him for this crime. First, you tell me the source of their tale."

His ministered answered, “Your highness! There was a man on the tree which Takshak stabbed. He had climbed the tree to collect dry firewood. Neither Takshak nor Kashyap realized that they had a third person listening in to their conversation. When Takshak stabbed the tree, that man too was burned into ashes along with the tree. The mantra from Kashyap brought him to life along with the tree. He had listened into their conversation and reported it to us. Now, you decide what our next step is going to be.”

Story 15 - The birth of Aastik

This is the story of sage Jaratkaru and how Aastik was born.

The word ‘Jara’ means body and ‘Karu’ means strong. This means that Jaratkaru’s body was very healthy and strong in the beginning. But he had shrivelled his body due to strict penances and fasting. As a result, he was called ‘Jaratkaru’. Vasuki’s sister was also a strict ascetic. She too had become thin after deep tapas and thus came to be known as Jaratkaru.

Now, sage Jaratkaru remained a bachelor all his life. He would meditate and roam the world. He would visit spiritual places, bathe in holy waters, and observe strict rules of meditation which were impossible for normal human beings to follow. He would remain without food or water for days on end, surviving just on air. Due to these hardships, his body had become very thin.

One day in a forest, he came across a truly amazing sight. He saw some old ascetics hanging upside down in a pit. They were holding on to the last remaining branch of a tree. The root of the tree was being chewed by a mouse. Jaratkaru's heart melted at this sight. Concerned, he went to the hanging ascetics and said, “I hope you are aware that your last remaining support is being chewed by a mouse. When that goes, you will fall into the pit. I am very moved by your helplessness. Please tell me, what can I do to help you? If you can be saved by one-fourth, one-third, or even half share of my tapas, then please let me know. What’s more? I am willing to give you all the benefits of my tapas to save you. Just tell me.”

His forefathers replied, “How can an old bachelor like you save us? Even your tapas are useless. If it were that easy, we could have used the power of our own tapas. But that is not the reason of our condition. We are dropping into hell as our family name is almost over and our dynasty is ending without a heir. You are an old and kind man and genuinely worried about us. So we will tell you about ourselves. We are sages Yayavar. We have fallen from our virtuous deeds due to the end of our line. We have only one descendant left in our family, but he is almost like nothing. Unfortunately for us, he is a bachelor ascetic. His name is Jaratkaru. He is a scholarly, gentle, and gracious soul. But his greed for becoming a great ascetic while remaining a bachelor has doomed us. He does not have any sibling or spouse or children, nor does he plan to. That is the reason we are hanging over this pit like miserable orphans. If you find him anywhere, then kindly tell him, “Jaratkaru! Your forefathers are hanging upside down over a pit. Get married and bear a child. You are our last hope to save our dynasty.” O great bachelor! See, the root of the branch, which is supporting us and which the mouse is busy chewing. That is our family line. The mouse is time, which has not stopped for anyone. One day, it will end Jaratkaru too and we will be doomed forever. Please narrate this episode to Jaratkaru. Now, tell us who are you and why are you so concerned about our misfortune.”

Jaratkaru was shocked at this tale. With trembling hands and tears in his voice, he called out, “I am Jaratkaru, your offender son and you are my fathers and forefathers. I am your criminal. Please punish me and advise me what I should do.”

His forefathers replied, “Son! What a stroke of luck that you came upon us! Tell us why are you still not married?”

Jaratkaru replied, “My dear fathers! I had pledged in my heart to remain an eternal bachelor so that I could achieve greatness through my penances. Now after seeing your plight, I have decided against it. For the benefit of my family line, I will marry without a doubt. If someone offers me a girl who shares my name, then I will accept her as my wife. But I will not take the responsibility to provide her with food or shelter. If any girl meets these conditions, then I will immediately marry her, otherwise not . Do not worry. With your blessings, I will bear a son and free you from this agony.”

After promising his forefathers, Jaratkaru began searching for a girl to marry. But he could not find anyone suitable. Either people would be reluctant to marry their daughter to an old man like him, or the girl would not meet his requirements.

Disappointed and forlorn, he returned to the forest and slowly called out three times, “I wish for a woman. Any being who is alive and conscious, visible or hidden, listen to me. To save my forefathers from grief, I am begging for a woman who shares my name, is given to me in alms, and does not depend on me for food and shelter.”

When Vasuki’s spies reported this, he immediately appeared before Jaratkaru along with his sister and offered her hand in marriage.

Jaratkaru asked, “What is her name? Note that I will not take the responsibility for feeding and sheltering her.”

Vasuki replied, “This ascetic girl’s name is also Jaratkaru and she is my sister. I will take care of her food and shelter. She will be under my protection and care. I have kept her unmarried for you only.”

Jaratkaru retorted, “Well, I have another condition. She should never do anything that upsets me. If she does that, then I will leave her.”

Vasuki accepted this condition too and married his sister with all the pomp and celebration to Jaratkaru.

Sage Jaratkaru and his wife then started their married life in a luxurious palace provided by Vasuki. The sage even cautioned his wife, “Never do or say anything against my wish; otherwise I will leave you.” His wife agreed and started looking after her husband with care. After a little time, she got pregnant.

One day, sage Jaratkaru was a little miffed with his wife and sleeping with his head on her lap. Sunset drew near and he was still asleep. His wife then wondered, “Would it be all right to wake him up? If he keeps sleeping, he will not be able to perform agnihotra. He takes so much care to follow all rituals and traditions. What should I do? If I wake him, then he will be really angry and if I do not, then I will become a sinner.”

In the end she decided to wake him thinking that he might be annoyed but she would help him follow his dharma. So she softly called out, “My lord! Please get up. The sun is setting. It is time to perform agnihotra.”

Sage Jaratkaru roused. With fury, his lips were trembling. He called out, “O snake woman! You have insulted me. Now I will not live with you. I will return to where I came from. I have this firm belief in my heart that as long as I am asleep, the sun will not set. I do not wish to stay even a moment longer in a place where I have been insulted. I am leaving now.”

His wife got pale at these words. Her heart started beating and she begged him, “My lord! I did not wake to insult you. I only wanted you to follow your rituals and dharma.”

Jaratkaru’s temper cooled at these words but he remained adamant, “What I have said once, it cannot be untrue now. I had put this condition before marrying you. After I leave, tell your brother that I have gone and was happy as long as I stayed here. After I am gone, do not worry about anything.”

His wife got distressed. Her mouth dried, her voice choked, and her eyes were filled with tears. She somehow drew courage from a sinking heart and begged, “My lord! Please do not leave an innocent woman like me. I have been your good, dutiful, and loving wife, always interested in tasks that are dear to you. My brother married me to you for a reason. That reason is still not over. My brothers and relatives are under the curse of Kadru mother. I need to bear a child from you. With him only, our species will survive. My union with you should not be fruitless. Then why are you leaving me, an innocent woman?”

When Jaratkaru heard his wife, he replied, “You are carrying a fire-like radiant child in your womb. He will be a great scholar ascetic.” After saying these words, sage Jaratkaru left.

His wife then went to her brother Vasuki and narrated the entire event to him. When Vasuki heard this episode, he was distressed and morose, “Sister, you know we married you to the sage for a reason. If you had given birth to a son, then our snakes family would have benefited. According to Lord Brahma, this son will protect us from Janmayjay’s yajna. Sister! Tell me did you get pregnant from him? We do not want your marriage to go fruitless. It is not proper for a bother to ask this from his sister, but the gravity of the situation compels me to do so. I know that once sage Jaratkaru has said these words, it would be impossible to bring him back. I will not even ask him to consider returning out of fear of his curse. Sister! Tell me everything and give me assurance.”

The sage’s wife then replied, “Brother, even I asked the same question from him. He assured me that I have conceived and am carrying a child. Remember that he has never lied even in jest. Then, how can he lie in such a grave situation? While leaving, he had told me, “O daughter of snakes! Do not worry about the fruit of your marriage. You will give birth to a son who will be as radiant as god Agni and Sun.” Therefore brother, do not worry about anything.”

Vasuki was mightily pleased at these words and he started caring for his sister with great affection and tenderness.

When the right time came, his sister gave birth to a beautiful son. With his birth, sage Jartkaru's line was strengthened and his forefathers's agony was removed. The boy was a brilliant, intelligent, and noble soul. He learned Vedas from sage Chavan. Because his father had assured of his existence (asti) while he was still in womb, he was named Aastik. His uncle, king Vasuki, took really good care of him since childhood. In a few years, the child grew into an adolescent boy and was the apple of his uncles’ eyes.

Story 14 - The curse on snakes

Vasuki was the eldest son of Kadru and the king of all snakes. He was worried by his mother’s curse. He summoned his brothers for a meeting to discuss a way to save themselves.

Vasuki said, “Brothers! You are aware about mother’s curse. I have called for this meeting so that we can think and discuss a way to save ourselves from the curse. Every curse has a way out, but mother’s curse seems impenetrable. Let us not waste any more time. Before the calamity strikes us, we should think of a way to save ourselves.”

The snakes agreed and put forward various suggestions. Some suggested that they should beg King Janmayjay not to do the Yajna, while others advised that they should go to King Janmayjay as his ministers and advise him against performing the Yajna. There were others who advised that they should bite the head priest and kill him so that he could not perform the Yajna. Vasuki refused this proposal as if they do so, they would be doomed for an eternity on account of a murder of a Brahmin.

At this, some snakes advised that they would become clouds and put off Yajna’s fires with rain. Some snakes proposed that they should steal away Yajna’s articles. There were some ferocious snakes too who said if they kill millions of people then Yajna would be deemed inauspicious.

In the end, the snakes requested, “Vasuki! We can think of only these suggestions. Now, you decide.”

Vasuki replied, “I do not agree with any of your suggestions. All of them seem worthless. Remember, we have to think of a way that benefits us the most. I am your eldest brother. Any misfortune or failure and I will be held responsible. That is the reason I am very worried. Come! Let us all go to father Kashyap and try to please him. He can advise us something. Let us do whatever he suggests.”

Now, there was one snake by the name of Elapatra. When he heard his brother Vasuki’s concern, he replied, “Brothers! It is not possible to stop the Yajna or convince Janmayjay against performing it. We should leave ourselves to fates. There is no point of going under someone else’s shelter. Now, listen carefully. I have a way out to save ourselves from this calamity. When mother cursed us, I was very frightened and hid in her lap. That is the reason I was able to listen in on gods’ conversation with Lord Brahma.

When gods heard that harsh curse, they went to Brahma and said, “My lord! Which other woman would be more hard-hearted than Kadru who has cursed her sons to death? O father of the world! Even you did not stop her. What is the reason for that?” Brahma replied, “Gods! Now-a-days, the population of snakes has become uncontrollable. They are extremely violent, vicious, and ferocious. I did not stop Kadru for the benefit of life. This curse will end only sinful and poisonous snakes. The decent and gentle snakes will not be harmed. And then there is one more thing. In Yayavar dynasty, an ascetic called Jaratkaru will be born. His son will be called Aastik. He will be able to end Janmayjay’s Yajna and save the virtuous snakes.” After this conversation, Brahma and the other gods returned to their planets. So Vasuki! I suggest that you marry our sister Jaratkaruka with sage Jaratkaru. When he arrives to ask for our sister’s hand in marriage, you accept his proposal. That is the only way out of this trouble.”

When the snakes heard Elapatra’s account, they were relieved and agreed to his suggestion.
From that moment, Vasuki lovingly started protecting his sister. After a few days, the ocean churning exercise occurred where Vasuki played the role of the churning rope. The gods were delighted by Vasuki and took him to Brahma who repeated what Elapatra had already disclosed.

Vasuki appointed some snakes to search for sage Jaratkaru and bade them with these words, “As soon as Jaratkaru expresses his wish to get married, you rush back to me with the news. This is the only way by which we will be saved.”

Story 13 - Sheshnaag

This is the story of Sheshnaag, the most supreme son of Kadru, and how he was given a boon.

Kadru had 1000 snakes as her sons and she had cursed some of them when they had refused to comply with her wishes to wrap themselves round the tail of the celestial horse Uchchashrava to deceive their stepmother Vinta. Now the snakes were really worried about the consequence of the curse. One of the sons of Kadru was Sheshnaag who was tired of the wily and evil deeds of his other brothers. He left his mother and brothers and started strict penances. With only air as his means of nourishment, he observed deep meditation and tapas. Controlling his senses, he toured the various spiritual sites in the Himalyas.

When Lord Brahma noticed Sheshnag’s body was emancipated and he was wasting away due to tapas, he appeared before the snake and asked, “Shesh! Why are you observing such strict penance? Why are you subjecting your body to such hardships? Why do you not do something to help the mankind? Tell me, what do you desire?”

Shesh replied, “My Lord! My brothers are fools and I do not want to stay with them. They keep fighting with each other and have made the lives of Vinta and her son Garuda miserable. After all, Garuda is our brother and they should not be so cruel to him. Tired of them, I have left them and have started to do penances so that I can leave this body and free myself from those miserable creatures. I am only troubled when I think that even after death I would have to suffer their company.”

Brahma replied, “Shesh! Your brothers' deeds are not hidden from me. By defying your mother, they have brought trouble over their heads. I have also thought of a suitable punishment for them. Do not bother about them. Ask me what you desire. I am very pleased by you because your mind is set in the right dharma and would like to grant you a boon.”

Shesh requested, “O Father of the world! I only wish that my mind is always used for the pursuit of goodness, spirituality, and peace.”

Brahma, delighted at these words, replied, “Shesh! I am pleased by your control over your desires and heart. I would like to ask you to do something for the mankind. The Earth, with her mountains, forests, oceans, and lands, is not stable and shakes a lot. I want you to hold her so that it stabilizes.”

Sheshnaag told Brahma that he would do as he was asked and would wear the earth on his head and stabilize her. Brahma instructed to him, “Shesh! Earth will show you the way. You enter her.”

As instructed, Sheshnaag went through the Earth, held her from all sides and placed her on his head. From that time Sheshnaag has been still and patiently carrying the Earth on his head. Brahma praised his dharma, patience, and strength and returned to his planet.

Story 12 - Return of Garuda and Vinta's Freedom

When Garuda was returning with the pot of nectar, he met Lord Vishnu. Pleased with Garuda’s dedication and not being tempted to drink the nectar himself, Lord Vishnu said, “Garuda, I want to give you a boon. Ask me whatever you desire.”

Garuda replied, “My Lord, I have two requests. First, you keep me in your banner. Second, I become immortal without drinking the nectar.”

Lord Vishnu granted these boons. Garuda then said,” I too wish to give you a boon. Please ask me anything.”

Lord Vishnu said, “You become my mount.” Garuda granted this boon to Lord Vishnu and went on his way along with the nectar.

By then, Indra had gained consciousness. When he saw Garuda flying off with the nectar, he furiously attacked him with his mighty weapon, Vajra. Garuda bore the hit and laughed, “Indra! Your Vajra is useless in front of me. However, I am dropping one feather in honour of those with whose bones this great weapon was crafted. Go back. You will not be able to beat me.” Garuda then dropped a single feather. The noble souls started praising Garuda and called out, “Let it be whose feather is this be known as Suparna.”

Indra was amazed by the valour and might of Garuda. He bowed his hands and requested, “O king of birds, I want to know how strong you are. I would also like to extend my hand in friendship to you.”

Garuda replied, “O king of gods, I accept your hand in friendship. What shall I tell you about my strength? I do not like boast about myself. Since you are asking me as a friend, I will reply in the same that I can carry this entire earth on a single feather and fly effortlessly.”

Indra smiled and said, “Indeed! You are absolutely right! Please accept my deep friendship. If you do not need the nectar, then kindly return it to me. The creatures who you are planning to feed with it will make our lives unbearable.”

Garuda then said, “O king of gods! I have a reason to carry this nectar. I am not carrying it to feed someone. Wherever I place the pot, you pick it up from there.”

Indra was reassured by Garuda’s reply and said, “Garuda! Go ahead and ask me a boon.”

Garuda then remembered the treachery and cruelty of serpents to his mother and said, “I wish for those powerful serpents to become my food.” Indra granted this boon to Garuda and returned to his planet.

Finally, Garuda reached home. His mother was also nearby. He smiled and called the serpents, “Look, I have brought the nectar.” The elated serpents rushed to drink the nectar. At this, Garuda stopped them and advised, “Wait. Do not be hasty. It is a divine drink. Let me put the pot on Kusha grass while you take a bath. Then, drink it. I kept my side of the bargain. Now, you keep your promise and free my mother.”

The serpents readily agreed. When the serpents were happily taking their bath, Indra snatched the pot of nectar and went to his planet. When the serpents returned from their bath, they found that the pot was gone. They realized that this was the result of their evil deed when they tricked Vinta to become a slave to their mother. They started licking the grass in the hopes that some drops of nectar had fallen there, but the grass was so sharp that their tongues were sliced into two. Since then, the kusha grass became sacred because it had touched the nectar.

As for Garuda, he lived happily with his mother. He became the king of birds, his fame had spread in all directions, and his mother was extremely pleased.

Story 11 - Garuda's Quest for Nectar (Part 2)

After his meal, Garuda resumed his flight to the planet of gods to obtain the nectar of immortality. As Garuda drew near, there were marked signs of ill omen in the gods' land. The gods grew wary. King Indra went to their guru, Brihaspati, and asked, “My lord! Why are these bad omens happening? I do not see any enemy around who can win over us.”

Brihaspati replied, “Indra, Garuda is coming to get the nectar of immortality. He is the son of Vinta and is coming to humble you for your arrogance and transgressions. He is a strong, mighty creature who is now even more strengthened by the power of tapas of sages Valikhya. He can fly anywhere and assume any form. He can even accomplish tasks that seem impossible. He certainly has the strength to seize the nectar from us.”

When Indra heard this, he immediately rushed to the place where the pot of nectar was being guarded and commanded, “Take care. A strong bird-like creature called Garuda is coming to take away the nectar. Be vigilant. He should not be able to take it.” Then, all the gods along with Indra, fully armoured, stood on guard.

As soon as Grauda came near, his huge, flapping wings drew a large dust storm. The gods were temporarily blinded by the dust and could not do anything when Garuda started attacking them with his beak and talons. They soon dispersed.

When Indra saw his warriors running away, he asked the god of wind, Vayu, to blow off the dust cover. Vayu raised off the dust cover and the gods could now see what was happening. They regrouped and came forward to fight Garuda. However, Garuda's strength and swiftness was no match for them. Wounded by his attacks, the gods fell down the battlefield covered in blood and dirt.

After defeating gods when Garuda reached for the pot of nectar, enormous flames of fire arose. Garuda then metamorphosed his mouth into 8,000 mouths, which drank the waters of rivers and poured it on the flames. After cooling the fire, Garuda again resumed his small form and went ahead.

When he reached the place where the nectar was kept, he saw that it was being guarded by a spinning iron gadget, which was revolving around it. The gadget was extremely sharp and laden with all sorts of weapons. It seemed like the sun and fire rolled into one.

Garuda thought for a while and then started shrinking his body. When his body was reduced into a microscopic size, he infiltrated the machine. Inside, he saw that two terrifying serpents were guarding the nectar. With their swirling tongues and blazing eyes, the serpents seemed like death incarnate. Their eyes were spurting out fatal poison. Garuda raised a dust storm and blinded them with dust. He then attacked the serpents with his sharp beak and crushed them with his vicious talons. He broke the machine and grabbed the pot of nectar. Without drinking even a single drop of nectar, he flew to take it to the serpents.

Story 10 - Garuda's Quest For Nectar

Garuda accepted the condition offered by serpents to free his mother from enslavement.

He went to Vinta and said, “Mother, I am going to obtain the nectar of immortality for your freedom. It will be a long, arduous journey. What do you suggest I should eat on my way?”
Vinta replied, “Son, there is an island of nishads (dark creatures) in the ocean. You can eat them. However, take care that you do not eat any Brahmins, who also live in that island." Garuda then bade his mother farewell and flew off.

When he reached the aforementioned island, he saw several thousand nishads as his mother had said and ate some. Along with nishads, a Brahmin came into his mouth by mistake. As a result, Garuda's mouth started burning. He immediately spit him out from his mouth. When Garuda saw the Brahmin, he realized it would be too risky to try eating anything here. So, without further ado, he flew from the island and went on his way.

After flying for some time, Garuda saw his father, sage Kashyap, deep in meditation. He came down the earth and bowed his hands to his father in greeting. This was the first meeting between the father and the son.

Kashyap opened his eyes. Seeing his son in front of him, he smiled and said, “Son! I hope you are well. How is your mother? Do you get proper food?”

Garuda replied, “We are fine, father. Sometimes we worry when we do not get sufficient food, but we manage. Our only despair is mother's enslavement because of a long-ago bet which she lost to her sister due to trickery. I am on my way to obtain the nectar of immortality to purchase her freedom from the serpents. For nourishment, mother suggested that I should eat nishads, but I am still hungry. What do you advise me to eat?"

Kashyap blessed his son and replied, “Son, there is a world famous lake nearby. An elephant and a tortoise live there. Both were brothers in their previous lives, but now they are each other's deadliest enemy. Their story from their previous birth is like this---

In ancient times, there was a renowned sage called Vibhasu, who was infamous because of his quick temper. He had a younger brother called Supratik, who was also an ascetic.

After their father died, Supratik went to Vibhasu for a division of the inherited wealth. Vibhasu was upset by this and retorted, “Supratik, only those people who are motivated by their greed and lust for wealth ask for a share. Even after dividing property and wealth, do you think the enmity vanishes? On the contrary, they are surrounded by nefarious people who befriend them for their own selfish and evil designs. They poison the mind of brothers against each other, make them puppets in their own hand, and soon rob them off their wealth and property. Despite my advice, you are still persisting on a division and are paying no heed to the sayings of wise men. So go, I curse that you will be born an elephant in your next birth.”

Supratik furiously replied, “If I will be an elephant in my next birth, then you will be a tortoise.”

And so it was. The brothers are now an elephant and a tortoise, and all because of their rivalry. Even in this birth, these two giant creatures are constantly at war. The elephant is 6 Yojans tall and 12 Yojans wide. The tortoise is 3 Yojans tall and 10 Yojans round. They keep baying for each other’s blood. You go and eat those deadly creatures and get the nectar."

With his father Kashyap’s blessings, Garuda flew to the lake. He seized the elephant and the tortoise with his ginat talons and flew to the sky. Now, he was seeking a place to rest and eat his food. He then saw an area surrounded by beautiful, tall trees. When the trees saw a huge bird-like creature flying overhead, they started trembling in fear. They thought that this creature would surely crush them under its weight. When Garuda saw them getting nervous, he flew off in another direction.

At that time, a huge Banyan tree saw him and called out, “Garuda, come and sit on me. My branches are more than 100 Yojans long. They will surely support you. Come, rest and eat your food.”

Garuda then flew to the tree and sat on the branch. The moment he sat, the branch tore off and started falling down. As the branch was dropping, Garuda saw, to his amazement, that some sages were hanging upside down the branch. He realized that if the branch fell, they would surely die and immediately grabbed it with its beak. The sages were called Valikhya and were deep in tapas.

Now, Garuda started flying around with the sages’ branch in its beak and the elephant and the tortoise in its talons. He could not find any place to sit and kept on flying here and there. During that time, even the mountains started shaking with the wind from his wings. When his father, sage Kashyap, saw Garuda in this poor condition, he said, “Son, steady. Do not be hasty or adventurous. These sages are doing tapas with only the Sun’s rays as their nourishment. If they become angry with you, then they have the power to burn you into ashes.”

Kashyap then prayed to the sages Valikhya, “Holy men, Grauda is on a journey for the benefit of mankind. Please be kind to him.” Valikhya listened to Kashyap’s request. They left the branch and went to the Himalyas for tapas. Garuda then threw the branch and sat on a peak of the Mount Gandhamadan. He was now free to enjoy his meal of the elephant and the tortoise.

Story 9 - Mohini

This story narrates the events that happened after the nectar of immortality came out from the ocean of milk.

When the demons saw that all the gods were getting treasures that had come out of the ocean of milk, a fight ensured among them and they seized the pot of nectar. Seeing them celebrating with the pot of nectar, the gods were worried and they prayed to Lord Vishnu to help them regain it.

Lord Vishnu took the form of a beautiful, divine woman named Mohini. Mohini went to the demons and soon they fell in love with her beauty and charm. The foolish demons did not recognize that she was Lord Vishnu’s form.

Mohini charmed the demons and took the pot of nectar from them, claiming that she will distribute it among gods and demons. Both parties sat in separate queues. Mohini started distributing the nectar among gods.

Now a demon, named Rahu, became suspicious of Mohini's motive. Disguising himself as a god, he sat in the gods' queue and drank some nectar. The nectar had just reached his throat when the Sun god Surya and the Moon god Chandrama spied him. They told Mohini about it.

Before the nectar could pass Rahu’s throat, Mohini cut off his head with her divine discus, Sudarshana Chakra. Rahu’s colossal head was torn off his body and flew to the sky with a roar. His headless body dropped to the earth, whereas the head, due to its contact with the nectar, remained immortal. From that day, Rahu became an enemy of the Sun and the Moon.

After the gods drank nectar, Lord Vishnu left the Mohini form and returned to his original form. When demons saw that they had been deceived, they declared a war against gods.

A terrible battle erupted. It was a total bloodshed. The battle ground was covered with violent war cries to kill, maim, run, and follow. As the terrible battle raged on, Lord Vishnu joined the battleground assuming his two forms, Nar and Narayan.

Nar started cutting demons with his divine bow, while Narayan severed heads of countless demons with his divine discus. The demons were defeated and they ran off the battleground. The victorious gods cheered. They presented the pot of nectar to Lord Nar for safe-keeping and returned to their planets.

Story 8 - Churning the Ocean of Milk

This is the story of how gods and demons churned the ocean of milk to obtain the nectar of immortality.

One day, all gods gathered on the sacred Mount Meru to discuss how to obtain the nectar of immortality from the ocean of milk. Even Lord Narayan and Lord Brahma participated in the discussion.

Lord Narayan said, “Let all the gods and demons come together and churn the ocean of milk. As a result, nectar will be obtained from its depths.”

Under the guidance of Lord Narayan, the gods attempted to pull off Mount Mandaranchal to use it as the churning tool. However, the task turned out to be an impossible one. Mount Mandranchal was 55,000 miles high and 55,000 miles deep inside the earth. When the gods could not even budge the mountain from its position, they prayed to Lord Narayan and Lord Brahma, “Please tell us of a way by which we can dig out Mount Mandaranchal.”

Hearing their prayers, Lord Narayan and Lord Brahma persuaded the king of serpents, Vasuki, to dig up the mountain. Mighty Vasuki soon pulled out the Mandarachal mountain along with the forests and forest-dwellers on it.

The gods then went to the ocean of milk and told him, “We will now churn your waters to get nectar.” The ocean thought for a while and put forth a condition, “If you promise to give me a share of the nectar, then I will easily bear all the pain that will arise when you will churn me.” The gods and demons accepted this condition and asked the tortoise king, Kacchapraj, to support the mountain on his back.

In this way, the gods and the demons started the elaborate exercise of churning the ocean of milk. Mount Mandaranchal became the churning tool while Vasuki became the churning rope. The gods held the tail of the snake, while the demons held the head, and they pulled it alternately causing the mountain to rotate, which in turn churned the ocean. All kinds of herbs from the trees on Mount Mandaranchal flew into the ocean.

A millennium passed. When Lord Brahma saw everyone getting tired, he thought, “Except Lord Narayan, all the gods and demons are exhausted. So much time has passed since we started churning the ocean, but the nectar has not come out.” He requested Lord Vishnu, “My Lord! Please give them strength. You are their only saviour.” Lord Vishnu replied, “I am giving strength to everyone involved in this exercise. Everyone rotate Mount Mandaranchal with full force and churn the ocean.”

As soon as Lord Vishnu said these words, the strength of the gods and demons increased ten-fold and they started churning the ocean with full strength and vigour. Soon, huge waves rose in the ocean and out came Chandrama, the moon. After Chandrama, Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of fortune and wealth and Vishnu’s consort), Goddess Sura (creator of alcohol), Uccahashrava (the divine 7-headed horse), Kaustobhamani (the most valuable jewel in the world worn by Lord Vishnu), Kalpvriksh (the wish-granting tree), and Kamdhenu came out. Lakshmi, Sura, Chandrama, and Uccahashrava went to the gods’ planets.

After a while, Dhanavantri, the heavenly physician emerged with a pot containing the nectar. As soon as he emerged, a fight ensued among demons, claiming “It is mine, it is mine.” Then, a heavenly, four-tooth elephant called Airavat came out, who was immediately claimed by Indra.

When the ocean was churned for quite a while, a vicious poison named Kalkoot erupted. With its fumes, the gods and demons started losing consciousness. Lord Brahma then prayed to Lord Shiva to consume the poison. Lord Shiva kept the poison in his throat. As a result, his throat turned blue and thus he came to be known as “Neelkantha.”

Story 7 - The Birth of Garuda

After Vinta lost her bet with Kadru, she became her slave. Five hundred years passed. At the right time, the second egg laid by Vinta hatched. Out came a supremely radiant bird-like creature. His eyes were glowing with yellow light and body was as bright as fire. As soon as he was born, he flew into the sky and started growing. It seemed as if it would consume the entire universe with his strength, energy, and speed.

When gods saw this divine power, they first thought that it was Agni (god of fire) growing in size. They went to Agni and prayed, “Lord, please restrain yourself. Are you planning to burn us? Look, just look, your brilliant idol is spreading towards us.”

Agni replied, “Gods! This is not my idol. This is Garud, son of Vinta. You have mistaken him for me. He is the king of birds, a killer of snakes, a helper of gods, and an enemy of demons. Do not be scared of him. Come with me. Let us meet him.”

Agni and other gods then went to Garuda and prayed to him. Listening to their prayers, Garuda said, “You were frightened with my gigantic size. Do not be afraid any longer. I will now restrain my size and energy.” Gratified by his assurance, everyone returned.

One day, Vinta was sitting with her son, Garuda, when Kadru called her.

She ordered, “Vinta! I wish to see a beautiful site underneath the ocean with my sons. Take me there.”

Vinta then carried Kadru on her shoulders, while Garuda carried the serpents. The entire party set out to tour the desired site.

While flying, Garuda came very close to the Sun due to which many serpents fainted. Kadru prayed to Indra (god of thunder and lightning) and covered the entire sky with clouds. Rain fell and the atmosphere became cooler. The serpents were revived in no time at all.

When the party reached the site, the serpents were thrilled. They played around, toured the ocean's depth, and happily gazed at the creatures thriving within the ocean. Refreshed and delighted, they ran to Garuda and demanded, “You must have seen several beautiful islands in your flights. Take us to one such island.”

Garuda was distressed. After much consideration, he asked Vinta, “Mother, why should I obey the serpents?”

Vinta replied sadly, “Son! This is all because of a foolish bet that I made with Kadru before you were born. I lost the bet due to the trickery of her sons and unfortunately became her slave.”

When he heard the sad plight of his mother, Garuda was grieved. He went to the serpents and said, “Please listen and tell me carefully. What is that thing you want me to bring, that information you want me to get, or that task you want me to complete so that my mother can become free?

The serpents replied, “Garuda, if you can get us nectar somehow with your strength and courage, then we promise you that your mother will be free.”

Story 6 - The bet between Kadru and Vinta

One day, the two sisters Kadru and Vinta were taking a stroll together when they saw a magnificient, seven-headed horse called Ucchashrava. The horse was one of the 14 jewels that came out when gods and demons churned the ocean of milk to obtain the nectar of immortality.

Ucchashrava was the mightiest, swiftest, and the most handsome horse in the world. The sisters gazed at the horse in wonder. Kadru exclaimed, “Sister! Look and tell me the color of the horse.”
Vinta replied, “I think it is white. What do you think?”
Kadru contented, “Yes, its body is white but its tail is black. Come, let us bet on it. If you win, then I will be your slave; otherwise, you have to become my slave.”

Having made this bet, the sisters decided to wait till the next morning when they would observe the horse from a close distance to decide who won. Now, Kadru wanted to win the bet at any cost. She called her one thousand serpent-sons and told them, “Children, go immediately and cover Ucchashrava’s tail so that it appears to have black hair. I will then win the bet and do not have to become a slave.” Some serpents were reluctant to participate in this trickery and refused. Kadru was furious and cursed them, “Go, I curse that you will be burned to ashes in Janmayjay’s Yajna.” As soon as Kadru said these words, all the gods and heavenly bodies started praised her courage. It is a rare event in nature when a mother curses her own children to die. During that time, vicious and poisonous snakes were ruling the world and harming innocent living beings. So this curse turned out to be a blessing for other creatures. Even the creator of the world, Lord Brahma, praised Kadru’s courage with these words, “People who intentionally harm others are severely punished by the nature that created them.”

Kadru and Vinta spent a restless night and woke up early in the morning. They decided to go by the sky route to the place where Ucchashrava was grazing. Meanwhile, the serpents were a worried lot. Afraid of their mother's curse, they decided among themselves, “We should do as our mother has asked us to. If her wish is not granted, then she will blaze us with her anger. However, if we do as she pleases, then she may even free us from this curse. Come, let us turn the horse’s tail black.” Thus decided, they wrapped themselves over Ucchashrava’s tail, so that it looked black in color.

When Kadru and Vinta reached the horse, they saw that the horse’s body was as white as moonlight but its tail was black. As soon as Vinta saw this, she turned pale as she had lost the bet. From that moment, she accepted to be Kadru's slave.

Story 5 - Birth of Arun

This story is from Satya Yuga (Era of Truth). Daksha Prajapati, one of the sons of Lord Brahma, had two daughters – Kadru and Vinta. Both girls were married to sage Kashyap. One day, Kashyap was very delighted with the loving care of his wives and told them, “Go ahead! Ask me whatever boon you desire.”

Kadru said, “I wish for one thousand radiant serpents to be born as my sons.”

Vinta said, “I wish for only two sons, who are better than Kadru’s sons in each respect.”

Sage Kashyap granted their respective wish. His two wives were elated and conceived soon. Advising them to take care during pregnancy, Kashyap went to the forest for tapasya.

At the right time, Kadru laid one thousand eggs and Vinta laid two eggs. Their delighted maids sealed the eggs in warm containers. Five hundred years passed. One day, Kadru’s eggs hatched into one thousand small male serpents, but Vinta’s eggs did not hatch.

Vinta grew impatient and broke the shell of one egg. A strange, half-developed baby came out. His first half was fully developed, but his lower portion was still raw. Furious at his mother, the baby raged, “Mother! Due to your sibling rivalry, you have committed this crime. When your eggs did not hatch along with Kadru's, you went ahead and personally broke an egg. Just look at what you have done. I am not even fully developed. Because of your impatience and desire to remain one step ahead of your sister, you have doomed me to a life of a handicap forever. I curse that you will become a slave to that sister, with whom you keep such rivalry, for five hundred long years. You will be free from this curse only if you remain patient and wait for the second egg to hatch by its own. If you want your other child to be born normal, then I suggest that you wait for five hundred years and let the baby be developed. He will be your salvation."

After cursing his mother, the half-developed baby flew off to the sky and went on to become the charioteer of the Sun god. He is called as Arun. Before the Sun rises, the red light of the dawn is his reflection.

Story 4 - Story of Ved and his student Uttank

This is the story of Ayuddhaumya’s third student, Ved. Ved went on to become a Guru himself and he had a brilliant student, Uttank. This story is mainly about the task of Uttank and how he encouraged King Janmayjay to perform a Yajna to avenge his father's death, thus setting out the chain of events for the bitch's curse to unfold.

One day, Ayuddhaumya called his third student, Ved, and said, "Son, stay in my house for a few days. Serve us well and you will be blessed."

Ved agreed and spent a considerable time serving his Guru. Selflessly, he performed every task set out by his guru, even when Ayuddhaumya would load him like a beast of burden. However, he carried on with his duties, without a complaint.

Pleased with his service, Ayuddhaumya blessed him and set him free to move on with his life. Ved happily bade his teacher farewell and returned to his native town. He married and became a teacher.

Like his guru, Ved too had three favourite students, but he would never ask them for a test to prove their devotion like Ayuddhaumya. This is because he knew firsthand what hardships a student suffers when he is asked to prove his devotion to Guru and did not want to cause the same suffering to his students. So he gladly imparted knowledge to his students while serving as a priest to King Janmayjay and King Paushya.

Whenever Ved left his house for priestly duty, he would appoint one of his students as a caretaker. One day, he appointed his brilliant student, Uttank, to take care of the house while he was away. When he returned, he heard a lot of praise for Uttank’s decent behaviour.

Delighted with these reports, he called Uttank and said, “Son, you have served me with a lot of devotion and care. I am very pleased with you. May all your wishes come true. Now, you have my permission to leave the ashram and set out in the world.”
Uttank bowed to his guru and asked, “Sir, before I leave, I would like to present you with a gift. What do you desire?”
Ved refused but when Uttank persisted, he said, “All right, if you insist, then go and ask my wife.”
Uttank called on his Guru’s wife and repeated the request. She smiled and said, “I would like you to go to King Paushya’s kingdom and bring a pair of earrings from the queen. Four days from today, we have a banquet for Brahmins. I want to wear those earrings while serving food to them. If you can perform this task, then you will be successful, otherwise not.”

Uttank set out for King Paushya’s palace. On the way, he saw a tall man sitting on a bull. The man called out to Uttank and asked him to eat the bull’s dung. Uttank refused. The man encouraged, “Why do you hesitate? When I asked your Guru to eat it once, he readily ate it. Do not think much, eat it.” Uttank hurriedly ate the bull’s dung and went on his way. He washed his mouth while walking and reached the king’s palace.

He introduced himself to King Paushya who welcomed him. Uttank said, “Your highness! I have come to ask a favor from you.” When Paushya heard Uttank’s request, he sent him to his queen’s palace.

In the queen’s palace, however, Uttank could not see the queen anywhere. He searched for a while but when unsuccessful, he returned to the King and complained bitterly that the queen was missing. The King replied, “My lord! My queen is a pious woman. She cannot be seen by any indecent or unclean man.” When he heard this, Uttank remembered what happened during the way and narrated the incident to the king. The king said, “That is the reason you cannot see the queen. You ate on the way and did not wash your mouth or hands properly.”

Uttank was humbled by his carelessness. He sat down facing the east direction, washed his mouth and hands, sipped the holy water three times, and washed his mouth twice.

After performing these ablutions when he returned to the palace, he could see the beautiful queen. The queen greeted him, offered him refreshments, and asked how he fared. Uttank narrated his Guru’s wife’s request to the queen. The queen took off her earrings and handed them to Uttank with a warning, “Be very careful with them. Takshak, the king of serpents, also desires them. If you are not careful, he might just snatch them from you.”

Uttank thanked the king and the queen for their generosity and set out on his way back. On the way, he noticed a snake following him. Sometimes it would appear, and sometimes disappear. After a while when Uttank was thirsty, he put down the earrings to drink water. The snake was waiting for just that opportunity. It immediately snatched the earrings and disappeared. Uttank realized that the snake was none other than Takshak in disguise.

Furious with his sneaky behaviour, Uttank summoned Vajra, the weapon of Indra (the god of thunder and lightning). With Vajra’s help, he followed Takshak to the land of snakes. Scared of the power of Uttank, Takshak returned the earrings. Uttank returned at the right time to present them to his Guru’s wife and received her blessings. However, he could not forgive Takshak for his devious behaviour.

He bid farewell to his guru, came to Hastinapur, and sought an appointment with the king. During that time, King Janmayjay had just returned after a successful invasion over Takshilapur.

Uttank said to the king, “Your highness, it was Takshak who had killed your father by biting him. Your father’s life could be saved by a Brahmin called Kashyap. When Kashyap was coming to revive your father's life, Takshak tricked him into going back. You must take revenge of your father’s death from Takshak. To do so, you must perform a Yajna and burn the sinner snake into ashes. That soulless evil has also caused me a lot of grievance. If you perform the Yajna, then you can take avenge your father’s death and I will also be pleased.”

Story 3 - Upmanyu's Story

This is the story of Ayuddhaumya’s second student, Upmanyu.

One day, Ayuddhaumya decided to test his devotion.
He called him and said, "Son, I have a task for you. I would like you to herd cows and protect them during the day."
Upmanyu accepted the task and took out the cows for grazing next day.

When he returned in the evening, Ayuddhaumya asked him, "Son, you are looking so healthy and radiant. What do you eat and drink?"
Upmanyu replied, "Sir, I eat the food that I get from begging."
His Guru forbade him to do so, saying, "Son, you should not eat anything before offering it to me."

Upmanyu obeyed his Guru’s wish. Next day, he presented all his alms to Ayuddhaumya. Ayuddhaumya took away all the food without leaving anything for Upmanyu to eat. Upmanyu did not complain and went back to herding cows the next morning.

When he returned, Ayuddhaumya asked him, "Son, I have taken all your alms. Now, what do you eat?"
Upmanyu answered, "Sir, after I presented my alms to you, I returned and begged again.”
Ayuddhaumya gasped. He said, "Son, this is highly improper. When you go and ask for alms the second time, not only you take the share of other people who deserve those alms, but you also prove your greed."
Upmanyu heeded his Guru’s words.

When he returned in the evening, his Guru asked him again, "Son, I take all your alms. You do not beg again. In spite of that, you are looking so healthy and strong. What is the reason for that?"
Upmanyu replied, "Sir, I drink cows' milk."
His Guru forbade him from that too, saying, "Without my permission, it is not proper to drink cows' milk."
Upmanyu obeyed to this wish too.

Next evening, after he returned from herding cows, his Guru asked, "Son, you have now even stopped drinking milk. What do you eat?"
Upmanyu humbly replied, "Sir. I now drink the foam that calves spurt out after they drink their mothers' milk."
His Guru lamented, "Oh Lord! The poor calves must be taking pity on you and spurting out a lot of milk. By drinking the foam from their mouth, you are hindering the calves' growth."
Upmanyu listened to his Guru and even stopped drinking the foam from calves' mouth.

After his Guru stopped all his means of nourishment, Upmanyu got desperate and ate leaves of the 'Aak' plant (Calotrope). The leaves of the plant were bitter and produced a poisonous juice. After a while, Upmanyu found that he had lost his eyesight. Blind and hungry, he wandered around the forest until he fell into a dry well.

In the evening when Upmanyu did not return, his Guru was worried. He asked his students, "Has Upmanyu retuned?"
The students answered, "Not yet, Sir. The cows have returned, but not Upmanyu."
Ayuddhaumya was concerned. He said, "I stopped all his means of eating. He must be angry and upset with me and thus has not returned. Come, let us find him."

Ayuddhaumya went to the forest with his students and called out. "Upmanyu! Upmanyu,” the group called out, “Where are you? Come son."
When he heard his Guru’s voice, Upmanyu called out from the well, "I am in the well."
The group heard him and rushed to the well. Ayuddhaumya looked inside and saw his poor student, weary, blind, and wounded. His clothes were torn but his face was turned up in the general direction of the Guru.

Ayuddhaumya asked him, "Son, how did you fell in the well?"
Upmanyu replied, "I ate Aak’s leaves and lost my eyesight. I started wandering around to find my way back to the hermitage and fell into this well."

Distressed on hearing his plight, Ayuddhaumya advised him to pray to Ashwini Kumars. Ashwini Kumars are extremely handsome twins who are physicians of gods. “Son, you must pray to Ashwini Kumars,” said Ayuddhaumya, “They will surely restore your eyesight." The group then pulled out the blind Upmanyu from the well and returned with him to the hermitage.

In his small hut, Upmanyu started praying to Ashwini Kumars. Pleased with his devotion, Ashwini Kumars appeared before him and offered him a sweet, "Son, we are very pleased with your selfless devotion,” said Ashwini Kumars, “Eat this sweet and your eyes will be healed."
Upmanyu folded his hands in namaskar to the gods. He said, "My Lords! I am deeply humbled by your gift, but I cannot eat it without first offering it to my Guru."
Ashwini Kumars smiled and said, "Upmanyu, there was a time when your Guru also prayed to us and we offered him a sweet. At that time, he ate it without offering it to his Guru. So, if you eat the sweet now, you are only following what your Guru did."
Upmanyu remained steadfast. He folded his hands and said, "Please forgive me, gods, but I cannot eat this sweet without offering it to my Guru first."

Ashwini Kumars were impressed by Upmanyu’s devotion and loyalty to his Guru even in this adverse time. They smiled and said, "Son, we are pleased by your devotion to your Guru. We will now give you a boon. Your teeth will turn into gold, your eyes will heal, and you will have a happy and prosperous life."
As soon as these words were uttered, Upmanyu’s eyesight was restored. He opened his eyes and saw the twin gods in all their splendour and glory. He bowed to the gods, who blessed him and disappeared.

Upmanyu then rushed to his Guru and narrated the entire episode. Ayuddhaumya was delighted. He said, "Son Upmanyu, as per the boon by Ashwini Kumars, you will live a happy and successful life. In addition, all Vedas and Dharamshastras will be known to you automatically."

Upmanyu was elated at these words. When it was time for him to leave the ashram, he happily bid everyone farewell and returned to his native town.

To be continued.

Story 2 - Aaruni's Story

During the reign of King Janmayjay, there lived a Guru named Ayuddhaumya. He had three main disciples - Aaruni, Upmanyu, and Ved.

This is the story of his first strudent, Aaruni.

One day, the Guru summoned Aaruni, “Son, the levees of the field have been damaged and the irrigation water is rushing out from the field. Please, go and repair the levee.”

Aaruni bowed to his Guru’s wish and went to the field. However, the work was more difficult than he thought. He tried several times but could not build a levee. Tired and exhausted, he thought of an idea. In place of the levee, he laid down, which blocked the water flow. He remained in this position the entire day.

When the evening came and Aaruni did not return, Ayuddhaumya was worried. He asked his disciples, "Where is Aaruni?"
His disciples answered, "Sir, you sent him to build a levee in the field."
The teacher said, "Come, let us see where he has gone."

When they reached the field, the Guru called out, "Aaruni! Aaruni! Where are you, son?"
When he heard his teacher calling out, Aaruni stood and came to him with folded hands, "Sir, I am here. I apologize for not paying my respects to you in the evening, but I could not leave the field. When I could not stop water from flowing out by any means, I laid in place of levee. When I heard you calling for me, I stood up and have come to you for service. Please accept my greetings. Command me, what can I do to serve you?"


The Guru was pleased with the selfless service of his student. He smiled and replied, "Son, you stood up after breaking the levee. From now on, you will be known by a new name, Uddalak (the one who gets up after breaking things). When you could not build a levee, you laid in place of it. You did this great service to your Guru without worrying about food, drink, or physical comfort. Therefore, you will be also known as Kalyan. All Vedas and Dharmashastras will be learned by you automatically."

With these blessings from his Guru, Aaruni bid farewell to the aashram and happily returned to his native town.

To be continued.

Story 1 - King Janmayjay's Curse

Long, long time ago in India ruled a king called Janmayjay. He was a bold warrior, a wise man, and a noble soul. He was a descendant of valiant Pandavas.

The great battle of Mahabharata left several casualties for generations to come. One such casualty was to the Pandavas themselves. One day, a furious warrior named Ashwathama who was from the enemy side of Kauravas had infiltrated their camp and killed all the Pandavas’ sons. The only remaining heir was Parikshit, who was still in the womb of his widowed mother Uttara, the daughter-in-law of the great archer, Arjuna (third Pandava).

Janmayjay was the son of Parikshit. He had three brothers – Shrutsen, Ugrasen, and Bhimsen. Together they ruled India from their capital city of Hastinapur for several years until a dog cursed them.

This is the story of that curse. Once upon a time, King Janmayjay was performing a Yajna with his three brothers when a small dog ventured inside. Seeing the dog in the auspicious site, the king’s brothers rushed to capture it. They held the dog and beat it mercilessly. The dog started crying and somehow managed to escape the clutches of the men.

Bleeding profusely, it went to its mother. Now, the dog was not just any stray dog. It was the son of a bitch, who belonged to Gods.

When she saw her son crying and wounded, she was worried and asked, “What is the matter, son? Why are you crying? Who beat you?”
The small dog cried, “Oh mother! It was the king’s brothers who beat me.”
The bitch was concerned and asked strictly, "Surely, you must have done something terrible to deserve this punishment.”

Tears in its eye, the dog replied, "No mother! I did not do anything. I just ventured inside the site where they were performing the Yajna. But I did not look at the sacred fire or lick or touch anything. The king's brothers beat me without any reason."

Hearing these words, the bitch was furious and stormed into the Yajna site.

She screamed, "Listen, o king! My son was beaten by your brothers. May I ask the reason for this severe punishment it when it did not look toward the sacred fire, or lick or touch anything?" The king and his brother were lost for words.

Enraged with this injustice meted out to her son, the bitch cursed, "You have punished my son without any crime. I curse you that you will be consumed by a sudden fright.”

When the king heard these words from the bitch of Gods, he started trembling. Somehow he managed to finish the Yajna. But as soon as he returned to Hastinapur, he started a massive search for a learned astrologer throughout his kingdom that could prevent this curse. Many applicants came but the king was not certain of their wisdom and power to prevent the cursed calamity.

One day, he was hunting in a forest when he saw a beautiful, calm hermitage (ashram) of a sage near the river. Pleased at this serene site, he went inside to pay respect to the sage.

The hermitage was the adobe of a sage called Rishi Shrutshrava. Janmayjay greeted the sage with folded hands when he saw a young ascetic sitting next to the sage. The young man was deep in meditation. When the king enquired, the sage replied that the young man was his son called Somshrava. Janmayjay was impressed by the young man’s knowledge and learning and decided to appoint him as his astrologer.

He bowed to Rishi Shrutshrava and said, "My lord! May I have your permission to take your son to the city? I would like to appoint him as my astrologer."

The sage replied, "Dear king! My son is an esteemed ascetic. He can calm all calamities that are going to strike a person, except for the words that have come out of Lord Shiva. But he has a secret oath. If a Brahman asks him for a boon, then he will not refuse. If this condition is acceptable to you, then you have my permission to take him along."

Janmayjay readily agreed and returned to Hastinapur with Somshrava. He called his brothers and told them, "My dear brothers, I would like you to meet my new astrologer, Somshrava, the son of Rishi Shrutsharva. Please make him welcome. From today, you must obey his every word without a question." The brothers agreed gladly.

Reassured and calmed by the presence of the sage, the king and his brothers started planning for an invasion into another kingdom called Takshilapur.

To be continued.