The Story of Bhagiratha and Ganga…

Hi there!!! Today's story is about Bhagiratha, an ancestor of Rama, and the River Ganga. Let's go…

The Story of Bhagiratha doesn't start from when he was born, nooo. It starts all the way from the time of his great-great-grandfather, King Sagara.
Sagara was performing an Ashwamedha Yajna, in which he sent a gleaming white horse around the whole country. Wherever the horse put its hooves, Sagara would earn that kingdom as his own. Or, the current ruler of that kingdom would fight him.
When Sagara's horse was wandering aimlessly around, Indra, the god of the heavens, started to worry. He trembled at the sight of the horse. Sagara was a decorated king, so Indra thought that Sagara wanted the heavens!! But, Indra was smart. He was cunning. He stole the horse and locked it up in the heavens!!
Sagara was enraged!!! But, he only knew that his horse was missing. He had no clue that Indra had taken his horse and kept it in his court!! Sagara sent his 60,000 sons all the way around the country, looking for the chalk-white horse.
Not long after the start of their journey, the sons of Sagara found hoofprints. They followed the hoofprints on to Sage Kapila's ashram, where the horse was calmly drinking water from a bowl. They saw Kapila meditating, with his eyes closed and chanting, "Om… Om…" Concluding, the sons of Sagara thought that Kapila had stolen their horse!! They started insulting him. They even threw a few small stones at him!! But, Kapila wasn't perturbed. He kept meditating.
Soon, Sage Kapila lost his cool. He opened his eyes in rage. Suddenly, the 60,000 children turned to ashes!!! Their bodies became heaps of black cinders.

Meanwhile, Sagara got anxious about his sons. He sent Anshuman, his grandson, to go and retrieve his horse.
Anshuman followed the hoofprints that his uncles had followed before him. When he reached Sage Kapila's ashram, he saw the ashes of his kin. He started weeping at the sight of his elders' embers. Kapila acknowledged Anshuman's arrival and said, " Hello, Anshuman," Anshuman kept on weeping. He pleaded Kapila, "Please let my uncles go to heaven. Please help them attain moksha!!" Kapila replied, " You must bring River Ganga down to Earth. She must flow over the ashes of your kin."
So, Anshuman took the horse to Sagara and explained the situation. Sagara tried performing a penance to Lord Bramha, but he died while he was chanting.

Centuries passed. Each king after Sagara tried to please the gods, but they died in the process. Many, many years; many, many kings.
A long, long time passed. Soon, Bhagiratha was born. He was Dilipa's (The great-great-grandson of Sagara) son.
When his father lay on his deathbed, Bhagiratha was introduced to the task that his ancestors had been given. Bhagiratha was bent on completing the task, so he set out to the forest.
Bhagiratha performed a severe penance to please the Creator of the Universe, Lord Bramha.
After many long years, Bramha appeared before Bhagiratha, "What do you desire, My boy?" Bhagiratha expressed his desire to let Ganga flow on the Earth. Bramha stated, "That's impossible!! You know that Ganga would crush the Earth if she came!! Pray to Lord Shiva, for he can help you," and Bramha disappeared into the clouds.
Bhagiratha continued his penance, but it was for Lord Shiva.
Shiva appeared before him and said, "What do you want, little one?" Bhagiratha replied, "I would like you to hold the force of Ganga and let her flow peacefully down to earth," Shiva blessed him and went to heaven.

In the heavens, Ganga rushed down from her abode. Shiva sat calmly and waited for her to come close. Ganga rushed down, flowing to Shiva. Looking up, Shiva slightly opened his hair and received Ganga through them. His locks got flooded with Ganga's water, who trickled down. Only a sliver of her water came down to earth.
Meanwhile, on earth, Sage Jahnu was conducting a yajna. As Ganga flowed down, Jahnu's yajna was disrupted. He was enraged!!! In a fit of anger, he drank all of Gang's water. Bhagiratha was dismal. He pleaded Jahnu to let out the water. Jahnu was annoyed, but he soon calmed down. He let out Ganga's water from his ear and made it trickle on to Bhagiratha's ancestors' ashes. They attained moksha and flew to heaven.
Thus, Bhagiratha fulfilled his task.

Fun Fact Nº 1: Ganga is also called Bhagirathi and Jahnavi, because she was called by Bhagiratha and she came from Sage Jahnu

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The Story of Amba and her Wish…

Hi there!! Today's story is about Amba, one of the Princesses of Kashi, and Bheeshma, the grand-uncle of the Pandavas and Kauravas.
Let's go…

When Vichitravirya, the half-brother of Bheeshma and the heir to the throne of Hastinapur, came of age (Coming of age means when a person is the right age to become the ruler of the kingdom), Bheeshma announced," The prince must be married before he ascends to the throne. I shall take it upon myself to go to find him a befitting wife," Bheeshma had taken a vow to serve the throne of Hastinapur, even though he was the rightful heir to the throne. He had earned his trademark name because of his vow (Bhishma pratigya) and had dedicated his life to it ever since.
As Bheeshma set off to scout for a bride for Vichitravirya, he heard that the King of Kashi was having a swayamvara for his three daughters - Amba, Ambika and Ambalika. Bheeshma thought, "This is the right opportunity to give brother a good wife. The King of Kashi is a kind-hearted man. He shall hand over the three ladies with ease,"
So, Bheeshma set out on his horse to the Kingdom of Kashi. 

The day of the swayamvara arrived. The palace of Kashi was decked up with beautiful flowers and gorgeous scents filled the air. Amba, Ambika and Ambalika were seated in three gleaming, glistening, golden thrones in the main hall. In front of them lay a huge bow, with a massive, copper bowl of oil sitting under it. There was a tall tower, with a wooden bird perched on the top of the pole. Many princes came from far and wide to win the hand of Amba and her sisters. They all sat in rows, patiently waiting for the king to give the announcement. The King strutted in, flowers flying on him from both sides. He sat on his golden throne, and bellowed, "WELCOME TO THE SWAYAMVARA!!!!!!" The princes cheered the king, who blessed them. Suddenly, Bheeshma stormed into the room and proclaimed, "I am Bheeshma of Hastinapur. I have come to take the three brides for my brother, Vichitravirya, the King of Hastinapur. I am ready to fight anyone who is opposed to this." 
Nobody dared to fight Bheeshma, obviously. Even the King of Kashi was too petrified to offer any resistance and sent his three daughters with Bheeshma.

On their way back to Hastinapur, Amba, the eldest sister, told Bheeshma, "I won't marry your brother. I am sorry. My heart is set out for the prince of the Saubala Kingdom, Salwa!! You can't take me to your brother!! I wanted to marry him, but you took me away without my consent," Bheeshma was confused. He didn't know that Amba's heart was for someone else. "I have made a mistake. Had you told me, I would've only taken your sisters, " Ambika and Ambalika added that they wanted to marry Vichitravirya only.
Bheeshma commanded one of his servants to take Amba to the Saubala Kingdom. They rode off on a separate chariot. All along the journey, Amba thought that the prince would be ecstatic to see her. But, her thoughts were just a dream. "I can't marry you. Bheeshma already took you away," said Prince Salwa. Amba was shocked!! She knew that Salwa loved her, but why didn't he accept it? "You are better off with Vichitravirya, anyways, " said Salwa. Amba thought, "Where am I to go? I can't go back to my father, because of the marital laws. I have to go back to Bheeshma, "
Bheeshma was surprised to see Amba at the Hastinapur Palace. She explained the circumstances of her return, "No one shall accept me. I wish to be married to you, O Bheeshma," Bheeshma was taken aback!! "You know that I have made a vow not to marry. I can't do what you wish from me," said Bheeshma. 
The argument went on for hours. Finally, an enraged Amba shouted at Bheeshma, "MAY YOUR END BE AT MY HANDS!!!" and ran off.
Amba soon reached the river Ganga. She wailed to her, "O Ganga, did you see what your son has done?!" After many hours, Amba lit a huge fire, with many, many logs of wood. She prayed to Lord Shiva, who immediately came in front of her, "What do you desire, my little one?" said Shiva.

"I would like to be the cause of Bheeshma's end!!!" proclaimed Amba. Shiva blessed Amba with her wish and flew back to his abode. Amba then jumped into her fire, dying instantly.

In her next life, Amba was born as the first-born of Drupada, the King of the Panchala Kingdom. She fought for the Pandavas in the great Kurukshetra War.
When Bheeshma was fighting alongside the Kauravas, Shikandhi (Amba's new name) blocked his view and allowed Arjuna to shoot multiple arrows through him.
Thus, Amba fulfilled her wish and achieved her goal.

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The Tale of the Five Golden Arrows…

Hi!!! Today's story is about Duryodhana's five golden arrows, and how he gave them to the Pandavas. This story takes place during the Mahabharata War, on the tenth night. Let's go…

The Mahabharata took place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, and went on for eighteen days. During the first ten days of the War, the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava Army was the revered and respected Bheeshma Pitamah, the grand-uncle of the Pandavas and Kauravas. His half-brother, the late Vichitravirya, was Dhritarashtra's father.
Despite his (VERY) old age, Bheeshma was a ferocious fighter who slaughtered the Pandavas' petty army. They were no match for him. He killed a great number of innocent soldiers.
However, Duryodhana, the first Kaurava brother, was unhappy. He had noticed that Bheeshma didn't intend to kill the five Pandavas. Duryodhana thought that Bheeshma was biased to the Pandavas' side. Duryodhana was well aware of Bheeshma's affection towards the Pandavas and was upset. Even though Bheeshma was fighting for the Kauravas, Duryodhana thought that he was assisting the Pandavas.
One night, unable to let things be, Duryodhana approached his grand-uncle," Grand-uncle, you are a fine fighter and an amazing combatant. But, I am ashamed of you. You say that you fight for us, whereas you don't kill any of the Pandavas. What is this?! What is this, I say?! You are the disciple of the great Parashurama!! Yet, you haven't killed even one Pandava!!" Bheeshma sighed. He replied to Duryodhana," I am hurt by what you say, Putra. You know that I am loyal to whoever sits on the throne of Hastinapur!! I serve your father, therefore I serve you." Duryodhana still wasn't convinced.

Bheeshma took Duryodhana to his chambers. When they got there, Duryodhana covered his eyes. There was a massive light shining from Bheeshma's room!! When he recovered from the shock, Duryodhana ran to see the source of the light. He saw that there was a small bundle, with five gleaming, glistening, golden arrows lying in it. Bheeshma picked it up and showed it to Duryodhana," I have crafted these arrows for one purpose and one purpose only. To kill the Pandavas. If I were to use them in battle, they are sure to hit their target. One arrow, one Pandava." Duryodhana was ecstatic!! He had never seen these amazing arrows!! But, he still remained minutely sceptical. He thought, " Hmm… What if he gives them to the Pandavas?" Duryodhana pulled the arrows from his grand-uncle's hands," Grand-uncle, please let me keep them tonight." Bheeshma shook his head in disagreement," No, Putra. I cannot give them to you," but, Duryodhana was persistent. "Please, Grand-uncle. Let me take these arrows to my chambers."
They argued continuously, but Bheeshma finally gave in. He handed the Golden Arrows to Duryodhana.
Soon, Krishna got news of the Golden Arrows through a spy. He told Krishna, "My Liege, Duryodhana has some Golden Arrows made by Pitamah. What do we do?!" Krishna ran to Arjuna and narrated what had happened. Seeing Arjuna's worried face, Krishna asked, "Do you remember the encounter with the Gandharvas during your exile?"

Once, Duryodhana had brought his friends over to camp near the Pandavas' hut. He wanted to keep an eye on them.
One morning, while Duryodhana had gone to abuse the Pandavas, he got into a heated argument with some Gandharvas (nature men). Soon, they got into a huge bout, which ended in Duryodhana's loss. He was easily defeated by the Gandharvas, who tied him to a tree and started making fun of him.
Yudhistira saw what was happening and called his brothers, Arjuna and Bheema, to him. "Save our cousin," he said. Bheema refused, "I shall not help that scoundrel!!! He is the one who gave us this exile, this austere life!!! DO YOU THINK I SHOULD HELP HIM?!?!?!?!?!" But, Arjuna rescued his cousin.
Duryodhana was ashamed of his erratic behaviour. He felt that it was his duty to give Arjuna something in return. He asked him," O cousin, I am obliged to give you something. Anything you wish for, I shall give you. What would you like?" Arjuna stared at Duryodhana and muttered," I am only here for Yudhistira. I don't want anything." But, Duryodhana pleaded Arjuna.
Arjuna finally said," Okay!! Let us keep this on hold. But, you can't say no to whatever I ask for," Duryodhana smiled and said," Fine, Arjuna. You have my word."

Krishna reminded Arjuna of Duryodhana's promise. "Ooooohhhh!!!! Now I understand!! You want me to go to the Kaurava camp and ask Duryodhana to give me the arrows, right?!" Krishna nodded his head and sent Arjuna on his golden chariot, all the way to the Kaurava camp.
After exchanging greetings, Duryodhana called Arjuna into his tent.
After a few minutes, Arjuna reminded him, "Do you remember the promise you had made to me when I fought off those Gandharvas?!" Duryodhana nodded his head. "Well, I'd like those five arrows that Pitamah gave you." Duryodhana was shocked!! He hadn't a clue that Arjuna would ask for this!! But, it was his duty. He couldn't break his promise. Sighing, he handed over the arrows to Arjuna and asked him, " Tell me, who advised you to take the five arrows?!" Arjuna smiled and walked to his chariot," You already know who it was. It was Krishna." Arjuna sped off on his chariot, back to his camp, where his brothers awaited him with anxiety. Duryodhana helplessly watched as Arjuna took away the precious arrows.
The next morning, Bheeshma asked Duryodhana about the arrows. Duryodhana narrated the entire story to his grand-uncle. slapping his head, Bheeshma proclaimed," O Duryodhana!!! Those five arrows could have wiped out the Pandavas!!!! You gave them the arrows instead!!! Why, Putra? Why?!?! You have just handed victory over to the Pandavas."

Thus, Arjuna earned the Five Golden Arrows and decimated the Kaurava Army with them.

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Wit and Humour: Gopal in the Sweet Shop

Hi there!!! Today's Wit and Humour story is about Gopal, the jester at Krishna Chandra's court. Krishna Chandra was the King of Krishnanagar, in Bengal. Gopal was, what you could say, the Tenali Raman of the North East!! His antics were loved by the King, who laughed at the absurdity and sheer wit of Gopal. Today, Gopal will be joining the kids of the village to steal some sweets from the ill-minded sweet-seller, Bhola. Let's go…

The children of Krishnanagar loved Gopal because he often joined them in his pranks. Many a time they used to loot the chips-shops and burgle the bakeries. The children didn't have any part in the heists though, nooo. It was all Gopal. He made the heist. He was the strategist. Everything the kids were said to have done, Gopal would have actually done!!
One summer morning, Gopal was strolling down a gully road with his friends, the kids, when they asked him, "Gopal Maama!!! Will you do something for us? Please!!!" Gopal replied, "Of course!! Tell me what should I do?" The children ran in front of Gopal. "Hey!!! Wait up!!! I'm old and fat!!! Wait, kiddos!!!!"

Soon, Gopal caught up to his pals and huffed, "Please!!! Pleeeeaaassse!!! Stop running!! I can't bear to do this anymore!! What do you want?!?! Just tell me!!!!!" One of the kids pointed to the left of the gully road. Gopal didn't see anything!!! He squinted his eyes, but he didn't see anything!! He was staring at an empty stretch of land!!! When he caught his breath, Gopal saw that there was a small shop there. It had a tall, blue-painted, splintered plank of wood at the front, which folded front to be a small platform. On the roof of the shop was a sign that said, "BHOLA'S SWEET SHOP." 

When Gopal saw the sign, he understood everything, "Ooohhh!!!!" Then, one of the children, a small and scrawny one, narrated," Gopal Maama, can you please get some free sweets from Bhola's shop? Just for us?!" All of the boys nodded their heads in agreement. All but one, who told the scrawny one, "Sweets from that man?! Impossible!!! He even cheats us when we pay him money!!!!" Gopal stroked his not-so-hairy chin and said, "Is that so?! Hmm… Well, leave it to me and get ready for a feast!!!"

Gopal sauntered over to the back door of BHOLA'S SWEET SHOP and peeked in. He saw that Bhola was lying down on his bed. His son sat next to him with a glass of milk. Gopal heard Bhola say, "I am sleeping. Wake me up if anyone comes and don't let me catch you eating sweets!!" He nodded in reply and saw his father to his bed.

When Bhola dozed off, Gopal ran in and started hogging the sweets!! Bhola's son waved his hands in confusion, "HEY!!! Wh-what are you doing?!?! Wh-who are you?!?" Gopal smiled and said," Your father knows me. Just call me Makkhi!!" (Makkhi means 'fly' or 'flying bug').  Bhola's son ran into his father's room and screamed, "FATHER!!! FATHER!!!! Makkhi has come!!!!" Bhola mumbled, "Huh? What?! Makkhi?! Stop chattering and let me sleep!!" But, his son kept insisting. 

Meanwhile, Gopal kept on wolfing down rasgullas and gulab jamuns, pedas and laddoos. He even stole Bhola's pots and filled them with sweet treats for his friends. Bhola shouted at his son, "HOW MUCH CAN A MAKKHI EAT?!? What a fool," Gopal heard Bhola say this and turned to leave. He told Bhola's son, "See? I told you your dad wouldn't mind!" 
A few minutes later, Gopal went to see the children. 

He showed them the delicious delicacies. The kids drooled at the sight of the yummy sweets, which were plopped in their hands by Gopal. They pulled the desserts from each other and chomped them off. Smiling, they thanked Gopal," THANKS GOPAL MAAMA!!!!!!" Gopal proclaimed," You're welcome!! When you pass Bhola's shop, be sure to give him Makkhi's regards!! HaHaHa!!!"
Thus, Gopal stole sweets from the evil Bhola.

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PUZZLE EDITION Nº 2": RAMAYANA GUESS THE NAME!!!!

Hi there!!! Today, I'm giving you a break from the stories and tales. Today, Puzzle Edition is doing its second post!!! Today's puzzle will be a guess the name of the characters from the Ramayana. The Ramayana is a story written by Valmiki, the sage. But, there is a lot of proof that the Ramayana actually happened!! For instance, when Ravana took Sita away from her house in the forest, Jatayu few to save her. But, Ravana sliced off his wings and let him fall to the ground. When Rama saw that his friend was dying, he uttered the words, "Le Pakshi," which mean, "Rise, Bird." It is said that Jatayu fell and died at the same spot that is called Lepakshi Temple, in Andhra Pradesh.
Coincidence, hmm…? Maybe, maybe not!! Anyways, the characters' names will be given in emojis. Try and find out their names by deciphering the meaning!!! Good Luck!!!!

Question 1: R + 🥭 + a

Question 2: V + B + 🌞

Question 3: 🐮 + 🐚 + YA

Question 4: Ba +   + 

Question 5: 👞 + r+  Sorbet (Hint: translate 'sorbet' to Kannada)

Question 6: ✈ + AA + opposite of 'me' 

Question 7: 10 + (the gold chariot down here ⇩⇩)

Question 8: Ku + 🐻 + a

Question 9: 🔫 + ga

Question 10: + a + 🚗 + Na

To submit your answers, please post your answers in the comments section below!!!! Let's see who can get them all right!!!!! Good Luck!!!! Happy Solving!!!

The Story of the Staircase to Heaven…

Hi!!! I read today's story very recently, in a book that we Dunzo'd home. I really liked this story because it portrays the meaning of perseverance and devotion. It's about Arjuna, the third Pandava, and how he- I don't want to spoil the story!! Let's go…

When King Pandu died, his widow, Kunti went to Hastinapur with her five sons, the Pandavas. They went to live with their cousins, the Kauravas, in the hope that they would accept them. Pandu's blind brother, Dhritarashtra, had become the ruler of Hastinapur after his brother denied the throne. Pandu, when in the forest, had killed the Sage Kindama and his wife. He had earned the curse, that if he ever loved a woman, he would die on the spot. So, he had decided to throw away his right to the throne and live in the forest.
Pandu's curse had come to fruition when he declared his love for his second wife, Madri. He died on the spot. Madri, thinking that she had been the cause for her husband's death, jumped into the funeral pyre along with Pandu's body.

Kunti, who was also known as Pritha, felt strongly that her children were only called princes. They were only princes for namesake. Since they didn't have a father or a kingdom to inherit, the Pandavas were nothing but commoners. They were only the relatives of the King. Soon, Kunti thought that she was an unwelcome guest at the palace and didn't think her sons were given enough importance in her brother-in-law's house. They pondered how long they would be welcome at their cousins' place. They knew that their stay would end soon.
One day, Sage Narada, the wandering messenger of the gods, came to the Palace of Hastinapur and happened to eye Kunti and Gandhari, the mother of the Kauravas, chatting. He strolled to them, chanting his trademark verse, "Narayana!! Narayana!! Hello, ladies!! What are you two discussing? I am filled with an immense feeling of intrigue towards your discussion," Kunti answered Narada with respect, "Pranam, Rishi Narada!!  We were just talking about the welfare of our children. Why do you ask?" "You must pray to Goddess Parvati. After all, she is the greatest mother of all," Gandhari butted in, "We know the power of Mother Parvati. But, how do we pray to her for the sake of our children?!"
Narada laughed, "Narayana!! Narayana!! You should perform the Gaja Gowri Pooja!! It must be done before the Ganesha Fest, and in the month of Bhadrapada, at the end of the monsoon!! Your offsprings' welfare will be sealed with Parvati's blessings," Kunti asked Narada, "But how do we perform this pooja, Rishi?" "You must welcome Parvati to your home. She must arrive on an elephant. Provide Mother Parvati with lovely clothes, vessels and flowers. Pray to her and she will protect your children," said Narada. With that, Narada left Hastinapur.

In her chambers, Kunti thought to herself, "Gandhari is the Queen and has a hundred boys that can wait on her, hand and foot. She can easily get an elephant. A REAL elephant, too. She can perform the pooja with glory and show. What authority do I have? I'm a widowed forest-dweller, with only five sons. What do I do?!" Kunti sulked with dismay.
Meanwhile, Gandhari did the pooja with pomp and pizzazz. They brought a real elephant, with a sandalwood statue of Parvati placed above it. They prayed deeply to it, showering it with flowers and silk cloth. They offered delicious food to it and adorned the statue with beautiful garlands. Gandhari didn't invite any of the Pandavas or Kunti, thinking that she would get upset and reminisce of her title of Queen and it's capabilities.
When news of the pooja reached Kunti, she wept with sadness, "Waah!! Gandhari didn't invite me because I don't hold a status that befits her company!! Waah!!!!" When her sons saw her in such a desolate state, they asked her, "Mother, what bothers you?" Kunti narrated the whole incident.
Arjuna proclaimed, "Mother, the strength of us five is greater than that of a hundred Kauravas. Just as Gandhari Auntie got a real elephant for their pooja, I will get one too. In fact, I will get the white elephant, Airavata, from Indra's court and bring it here. I shall also bring the real Mother Parvati here."

So, Arjuna set off to bring Airavata and Parvati back from the heavens. He walked until he reached the outskirts of Hastinapur and saw an open stretch of land. Walking to the patch, Arjuna shot thousands, no, MILLIONS of arrows up into the sky. When they fell, they carefully weaved themselves into a staircase!! Arjuna strolled up the staircase, with the arrows falling into the shape of a staircase. Once the staircase was complete, it reached all the way up to Indra's court!! Arjuna saw all of the arrows stop falling, so he ran up the staircase, leaping two steps at a time.
When Indra saw Arjuna's staircase, he became worried. A human entering Heaven was not natural. Now anyone would be able to walk into their abode and take away their wealth.
When Arjuna reached the heavens, he shouted, "I AM PANDUPUTRA ARJUNA!!!! I HAVE COME FOR AIRAVATA!!!!!" Indra recognized the young warrior and asked him with affection," Dear Arjuna, why do you desire Airavata? If I give him to you, you must destroy the staircase and promise never to come up here again!!" Arjuna bowed at Indra's feet and said, "Namaskara, Devendra!! My mother needs Airavata to perform the Gaja Gowri Pooja. May I ask for all of the materials, other than Airavata, for the pooja?" Indra ushered Arjuna to tell him of his desires, "May I request that you talk to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and invite them to attend the pooja in person?" Indra nodded his head and smiled, "I shall, young one. I shall."

Arjuna brought Airavata down to the earthly realm along with the necessary materials and burnt down the steps to heaven. Airavata trumpeted in joy and danced about the burning sticks of wood.
During the auspicious day of the pooja, Parvati arrived with Shiva and their followers. She sat on Airavata and Kunti worshipped her with sincerity and loyalty.
As the pooja drew to a close, Parvati blessed Kunti, "May your children's names be remembered when people talk about Dharma and good deeds. May your son, Arjuna, who came all the way to Heaven to fulfil your wish, be known as Partha, or the son of Pritha."
Thus, Kunti performed the Gaja Gowri Pooja with the help of Arjuna, who built a staircase all the way to Heaven.

Thanks for reading the Staircase to Heaven!! Please type your email in the box above the followers and click the blue button to receive emails about my posts!!!! Happy Reading!!!!

Wit and Humour: Tenali Raman and the Golden Mangoes…

Hi there!! Today's story is about the witty Tenali Raman, and how he saved King Krishnadeva Raya (I've written a few posts about him!! Check them out!!) from going bankrupt!! This story is a favourite of my sister's, who is a big fan of Tenali Raman. This story is sure to make little children crack up in laughter. Let's get on with the story…

One day, Krishnadeva Raya's mother, the Queen Mother of the Vijayanagar Empire, fell seriously ill. She was old and frail, and the medicines the royal doctors gave her had no effect. Soon, they told the King, "Your Highness, there are no options. The Queen Mother will not survive. We are very sorry." Krishnadeva Raya wailed in sorrow. His mother, who grew up with him, was going to go.
Time and again, the King paced the corridors of the palace pensively and restlessly. He waited for his frail mother to open her eyes and acknowledge his presence. She had closed her eyes and gone into a coma. The King pleaded the royal doctors to do something, but they gave him the same answer. The Queen Mother wouldn't be able to come back.
One morning, however, the Queen Mother sent for Krishnadeva Raya. He was in shock!! The very anxious King at once hurried to her bedroom.
Seeing the King run to the Queen Mother's room, the attendant bowed and vanished from the room, leaving mother and son alone.
The King ran in and saw his mother, lying on her bed in pain. Her eyes were closed. Krishnadeva Raya walked up to her head, softening her sheets with his hands. He knelt next to her and brushed his hand through her tousled hair. "Pranam, Mathe. How are you doing? Are you feeling better?" The Queen Mother turned her head and whispered to her son, "Krishnadeva… Krishnadeva… I am approaching Death's door. I have one wish. I want to relish a juicy mango before I depart from this world. Please… Please give me a mango…" Krishnadeva Raya whispered back, "Surely, Mathe." 
Krishnadeva Raya bolted out into the army barracks and shouted, "Mangoes!!! The Queen Mother needs mangoes!!! BRING ME SOME MANGOES!!!!!! NOW!!!"A mango was all his mother wanted. But summer had just begun. It would be a while for the luscious mangoes to hit the market or even hang from the trees like golden balls!! The king immediately deployed soldiers to scan through the fields and bring a basket full of best quality of available mangoes. The soldiers plunged into action, galloping on their horses, scouring the grooves, grabbing mangoes and eventually returned to the royal palace. But alas!! Just before the soldiers could place the basket full of mangoes before their Queen Mother, she breathed her last.

Krishnadeva Raya was distraught. He couldn't live with himself. How on Earth would he feel the satisfaction of pleasing his mother's soul? Then, he consulted Rajguru, his personal advisor and royal priest. Krishnadeva Raya pleaded him, "Rajguruji, my mother craved a mango before she died. Alas!! We couldn't bring one in time. How can I please her soul? How, Rajguruji?" Rajguru saw this as an opportunity to make himself and some other rich!! He knew that Krishnadeva Raya was a very gullible king, and whatever he said, the king would follow!! So, he hatched a devious plan to rob the king in broad daylight, " Charity to the needy was a cause, very dear to your mother’s heart. Why don't we craft mangoes out of gold and distribute them to the worthy Brahmins of our kingdom?"
News spread like wildfire and thousands, no, MILLIONS flocked to the capital to receive the golden mangoes given in the memory of the late Queen Mother. Soon, it was the greedy and not only the needy that came to get a shining golden mango.
Soon, Krishnadeva Raya's gold reserve began to deplete!! He lost a lot, A LOT of gold every day. The Brahmins would come and take most of the King's gold. Even the Rajguru came, disguised as a Brahmin, to take a gold mango. But, who was to tell the gullible king that his gold was diminishing? Well, it was none other than Tenali Raman!!
Raman saw through the Rajguru's plan and most others' too. He got to know that Rajguru had called some of his henchmen to accept some gold mangoes. They were to dress up as Brahmins. But, they were to hand some over to the Rajguru, in exchange for different ornaments.

When the fake Brahmins arrived at the palace, Raman hid behind a small pillar outside of the palace. As soon as the fake Brahmins reached the King, Raman ran into the palace, pretending to cry. His acting was enough to convince the King, "O King, WAAH!!! My mother is gone!! I haven't been able to fulfil her last wish!! WAAH!!!" The King walked to Raman and embraced him, "O Raman, I am deeply sorry. We are now partners in sorrow," said the King. Rajguru, who was standing next to the false Brahmins, suggested, " Why don't you give these brahmins some gol- errr - something that might please your late mother's soul, Raman?" Raman bowed down to the Rajguru and called him and his so-called Brahmins outside into the royal courtyard, where a large fire had been lit. Two soldiers sat next to the fire, heating up large iron rods. They looked very, VERY hot. Rajguru asked, "Raman, what is the meaning of this?!" Raman just ushered him forward, close to the flame. He asked Rajguru, "Please close your eyes. Your gift is coming," Rajguru eagerly closed his eyes, thinking about the treasure that lay ahead of him. But, Raman quickly took the rod from the soldiers and walked to Rajguru, who didn't suspect anything. He went behind him and PHATT!!!! Tusssssss!!!!!!! Raman slapped the flaming hot, iron rod right onto Rajguru's butt!! Rajguru howled in pain, as he ran around and around, trying to avoid the ghastly touch of the iron rod. He already had a burning scald on his rump and he didn't want another!! Soon, Raman had scalded all of the so-called Brahmins on their butts!! There were deep scars in the fake Brahmins' bottoms, but the deepest butt-cuts of all were Rajguru's!! He went running into the court, pleading Krishnadeva Raya, "O King!!! Save me!!! SAVE ME FROM RAMAN!!!!!!" Krishnadeva Raya was shocked when Rajguru showed him his burnt bottom. "RAMAN!!!! WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!?!?!" Raman stepped forward with the rod in his hand and proclaimed, "My King, my mother died with a horrible chronic disease. She couldn't bear the pain. So, she asked me to hit her with a hot iron rod, because she didn't want to feel the grievous pain. But, she succumbed before I could heat up the rod! I am only fulfilling my mother's wish now, My King!!" Rajguru stared at the King, "But-But-But what about my BUTT?!?!" 

Krishandeva Raya understood that Raman hadn't indeed lost his mother, he was just trying to teach the Rajguru and his associates a lesson. "Oh, what a fool I've been!! Raman, for your sheer wit, I award you with a bag of gold coins!!"
Thus, Tenali Raman saved the King from bankruptcy and stopped Rajguru from stealing the King's money!!!

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The Story of the Upside Down King…

Hi there!!! Today's story is about Satyavrata, the Suryvamsha King of Ayodhya, and how he became the upside-down king!! Let's go…

Satyavrata was a popular Suryavamsha King (Suryavamsha means of the same lineage of Surya, the Sun God. He was an ancestor of Rama!) of Ayodhya. He ruled his land fairly and just, complying to his subjects' wishes. But, he was also very strong. He won battles like they were a simple game of chess!! He made the kingdom of Ayodhya a superpower.
When he grew old, Satyavrata crowned his son, Harishchandra, the next ruler. He retired to the forest and renounced worldly life.
Satyavrata desired to retain his mortal body when ascending to the heavens. So, he requested his teacher, Sage Vasishta, to assist him. 
Sage Vasishta lived in an ashram, deep in the forest. Tigers roamed freely around the ashram, though they didn't harm Vasishta. He accepted them as his children.
When Satyavrata went to Vasishta's ashram, he explained his desire. " I would like to go to the heavens with my human body. This is my desire before I die," Vasishta didn't lose his cool. He was shocked, but he didn't show. He tried to explain to Satyavrata that his wish was neither natural nor something that would be accepted by the Devas. Satyavrata, however, was adamant. Vasishta tried to advise him, "My dear King, you are certain to attain moksha, but your mortal body must be discarded of. It is the laws of nature!"

Undeterred, Satyavrata went to Shakti (NOT the goddess), the eldest son of Vasishta. He pressurised him into helping him. But, Shakti resisted Satyavrata's pleas. This continued for days on end. Sometime later, Satyavrata pleaded Shakti by presenting him with jewels and gems, coins and cash. Satyvrata was trying to bribe him!! Shakti was deeply offended by the crude gesture of a bribe.
When Vasishta came to know of Satyavrata's actions, he cursed him, "HEY SATYAVRATA!! You have performed three grave sins!!! You have not listened to your guru, you have attempted to use underhand means to get what you want and you have entertained the unearthly desire to go to the heavens with your body!! From this day on, you will be known as Trishanku!! May you wander this world without peace of mind!!"
As Trishanku travelled through forests and kingdoms, he came across the famous Sage Vishwamithra, who was also a Suryavamshi. Vishwamithra was once a famous king before Satyavrata, but he renounced his life and become a sage. But, because he hadn't yet conquered the sins of anger and jealousy, he hadn't attained enlightenment.
Vishwamithra did not like Vasishta. He did not like Vasishta at all!! So, when he learnt of the reason of Trishanku's aimless wandering, he saw an opportunity to put Vasishta down. When Trishanku asked Vishwamithra if he could fulfil his wish, he replied, "Gladly, Trishanku. Gladly!! I will take it upon myself to ensure that your desire is fulfilled." so, Vishwamithra prepared many potions and practised many mantras to make Trishanku go to heaven.

Many sages tried to talk Sage Vishwamithra out of this strange arrangement, but he was adamant.  He used his magical powers to begin performing the rites.
Suddenly, Trishanku felt his body rise and head towards the heavens. He was ecstatic!! He flung his hands in the air with joy.
Meanwhile, in heaven, the gods sensed something strange. They sensed something fishy. They assembled and saw that Trishanku had started to rise up to the heavens!! "If every sage uses his power to for such a desire, then there will be humans roaming around and it will no longer be the heavens!!" The gods agreed that something should be done. Indra took charge and used his own magic powers to push Trishanku back to the Earth.
Vishwamithra sensed that Trishanku's body was slowly floating down with the power of Indra, so he pushed all of his strength into Trishanku, who, again, started to wobble his way upwards. Indra put more OOMPH in his push.
Since the push and pull of both Vishwamithra and Indra was so strong, Trishanku turned upside-down and clasped his hands, as if he were praying. Unable to move between the realms, Trishanku pleaded Vishwamithra to put more power in his push. But, Vishwamithra could only push at that much force. He didn't have any more tricks up his sleeve!!
With no respite in sight, Indra turned to reason with Vishwamithra, "Dear Sage, if you push Trishanku up into Heaven, then all humans will come here and make heaven become like the Earth!! Please stop pushing," Indra said. Now, Vishwamithra was in a fix: He could uphold his promise to Trishanku, or please the gods. He was confused.

Suddenly, an idea sparked in Vishwamithra's head. He asked Indra to reduce his force, but Indra was firm in his resolve. He didn't remove even a bit of strength from his push. So, Vishwamithra concentrated all of his strength into making a new, invisible heaven, which was only for Trishanku and who he chose. they could come up in their human form and rejoice.
Thus, Trishanku obtained his dream of going to heaven in his human form.

Fun Fact Nº 1: Many people use the statement 'Trishanku Swarga' to say to someone that they are not here, nor there.

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Bravehearts: Krishnadeva Raya - part 3

Hi!! Today's story is about how Krishnadeva Raya tricks Pratapa Rudra, the Kinng of Kalinga, into letting him take his kingdom and more. Let's go…

Krishnadeva Raya shot the arrow right into the grain storage. Many of the soldiers wanted to save the grain, but some others said that they should fight. Pratapa Rudra's men were in a tizzy!!!
In the chaos that followed, Krishnadeva Raya and his army entered the fort and effortlessly took it. They celebrated their win with a huge feast.

At Potanur, Pratapa Rudra was worried. He was very tensed about Krishnadeva Raya's power. "He is now like a tiger that has tasted human blood. He will not stop until I have been defeated," he said. But, his ministers assured all the time, "O King, don't worry!! The sixteen neighbouring chieftains have given us their alliance. They will be an asset to us!!" 
The sixteen loyal chieftains soon arrived at Potanur. They marched through Potanur with their HUGE armies. They made the Potanur army look like an ant in front of their collective strength. They made the Potanur soldiers gaze in awe. Their huge armies and their massive regiments made the citizens of Potanur run in fear.
Soon, the chieftains arrived at Pratapa Rudra's palace. He greeted them with splendour and pizzazz, "We admire your courage and loyalty to the throne of Kalinga," said the king. The chieftains proclaimed, "Let alone Krishnadeva Raya, not even an earthquake can shake us from that fort!! We shall beat up Krishnadeva Raya and send his running back to the hollow he came from!!" Pratapa Rudra partied with the chieftains and won their trust.

Soon, Krishnadeva Raya reached Potanur. But, he didn't know of the special methods that Pratapa Rudra had made.
He had sent many of his soldiers around the fort to lure the Vijayanagar army around the fort so that the main attack would loosen. But, Krishnadeva Raya was not so gullible. He made sure that men were focussing on the front side of the fort. The charge was unexpected by Pratapa Rudra, who countered with an enormous regiment. This continued for days. Then weeks. Then months!!! The fight nearly lasted a few hundred days!! Krishnadeva was very annoyed. He told Thimmarasu, "Appaji, the battle has been going on for hundreds of days!! The fort is not yet ours, though. What can we do?" Thimmarasu stroked his beard and thought about a solution.
A few minutes later, Thimmarasu told the emperor, "Your Majesty, we must resort to stratagem!"
After the day's battle, Thimmarasu penned down a letter to his secret agent inside the fort! He then tied it to a homing pigeon and set it free. It flew and flew until it reached the agent inside the fort. He received it very quietly and secretly, without alerting any of the guards. "Hello, little one! And what have you here?" The agent plucked the letter off the pigeon's leg. He read in his head and exclaimed, "Ooohohh!! Let's go!! We have a lot of preparation to do!!"
That night, the secret agent met his accomplices and explained the mission to them. They immediately understood what had to be done and why. The secret agent whispered," We will carry out the operation late tomorrow night - when Pratapa Rudra is on his rounds!"

At midnight the next day, the secret agent and four of his associates came dressed up as simple workers and heaved huge, heavy boxes on their heads. They walked with the trunks on their heads, when suddenly a troupe of soldiers stopped them. "Hey!! Where are you going?!?! What's in those boxes?!?" The agents pretended to run back, but the guards thrust their spears in front of them. "You guys are coming with us!!" They said.
The guards escorted the agents to an army post, where they forcefully opened the chests. The guards were astounded!!! There were heaps and heaps of gold and diamonds!!! There were jewels and gems, coins and cash, and shining bits and bobs!!! The guards were shocked!!! Their eyes widened in awe. Suddenly, the head guard pulled one of the agents up by the collar shouted, "DIAMONDS!!! TO WHOM WERE THEY GOING TO?!?!? SPEAK UP!!!!!!" Soon, Pratapa Rudra rode his horse over to the commotion. He jumped off and asked the chief guard, "What is going on, I say?! I'm trying to do my rounds peacefully!!" Pratapa Rudra eyed the treasure and smiled. One of the guards acknowledged this and told the king, "Theses men brought a letter along with it," Pratapa Rudra snatched the letter from the hand of the chief guard and read it out loud, "Trusted friends, this is the second consignment. One more will be sent as soon as you accomplish your mission at the appointed time…" The guard butted in, "They won't tell what it is for or for whom these jewels are meant." Pratapa Rudra stared at the agents and said to the guards, "Make them talk…"
The agents were subjected to a hundred lashes from the whip!! After they were each slapped by the hard, leather whip, one of the agents broke!! He screamed, "MERCY!! MERCY!!!!! These gems are from Krishnadeva Raya and were to be given to the sixteen chieftains!!" Pratapa Rudra roared in anger, "AAAAAAHHH!!!!! THOSE TRAITORS!!! I'LL KILL THEM WITH MY BARE HANDS!!!!" But, Pratapa Rudra soon realised that discretion was the better part of valour. He thought to himself, "They are sixteen, and I am alone. I should run before they capture me and take me to Krishnadeva Raya."
Meanwhile, a guard came running to the chieftains. He explained that the King had received jewels that Krishnadeva Raya had sent for them. They were shocked!! "Nonsense!! Sheer nonsense!!!" They ran into a small, private tent and discussed, "Let us go to the king and explain!!" But, most others said, "What if he refuses to believe us?! Supposing he imprisons us? It would be prudent to escape while we can!!"
So, the sixteen so-called loyal chieftains quietly slipped away from the fort with their men. Pratapa Rudra was in ruins after he discovered that the chieftains had run away. Without his alliance, Pratapa Rudra was a sitting duck, just waiting for Krishnadeva Raya to capture his fort.
Krishnadeva Raya marched into Potanur triumphantly. Thimmarasu's ruse had finally paid off!!! Krishnadeva Raya captured Pratapa Rudra and sent him to prison. Krishnadeva Raya put the kingdom of Kalinga under the Vijayanagar map. To make a better peace treaty with Pratapa Rudra, he married the Princess of Kalinga, Jaganmohini, and put Pratapa Rudra back as the Governor of Kalinga.

In a short span of twenty years, Krishnadeva Raya defeated the kingdoms of Kalinga and Bijapur!! In 1529, Krishnadeva Raya suddenly died because of an untimely illness. Krishnadeva Raya brought the Vijayanagar Empire to be one of the greatest empires in the History of India. 


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Bravehearts: Krishnadeva Raya - part 2

Hi there!! Today I'm continuing yesterday's story about Krishnadeva Raya, the Emperor of the Vijayanagar Empire. Let's go…

The next day, Krishnadeva was in the king's room. Viranarasimha's condition had worsened. Viranarsimha begged Krishnadeva for forgiveness. Krishnadeva only replied, "Let bygones be bygones, Your Majesty."
Krishnadeva was talking to the king, when, "Krishna… Krishna… Eeeh…" Suddenly, the king's hand fell from his grasp. He breathed his last breath.

When the ailing king died, the minsters and councillors decided to crown Krishnadeva as the new emperor. But, many people refused. Even Thimmarasu wasn't sure if Krishnadeva should become the emperor. When Krishnadeva asked the public why he shouldn't be king, the collectively proclaimed, "According to tradition, the emperor should be married before the coronation!!" The to-be-king was confused. Why should he be married to be the king? Willingly, Krishnadeva told Thimmarasu, "If custom requires so, then I shall show you the one who has won my heart."

Krishnadeva took Thimmarasu all the way to a temple, where a certain dancer was dancing. It was Chinnadevi!! When Thimmarasu and Krishnadeva entered, all of the spectators bowed to them. "Pranam, Raja!! Pranam, Mahamantri Thimmarasu!!" Chinnadevi looked up and saw Krishnadeva. She waved. Krishnadeva was struck by her beauty. He plopped down onto his chair and closed his eyes, drifting off into a daydream.

A few minutes later, he awoke to Thimmarasu's calls, "Krishna!!! Krishnadeva!!!" Stirring back to life, Krishnadeva saw Chinnadevi still dancing. He whispered to Thimmarasu, "Appaji, isn't she lovely?" Thimmarasu replied, "A temple dancer can't be the queen of the Vijayanagar Empire!!" But, Krishnadeva was firm in his resolve, "I met her while travelling incognito. I had no name, fortune or home but she welcomed me like a friend! I'd rather give up the kingdom than dear Chinna!!" Thimmarasu wasn't so convinced. He didn't like the idea of how a temple dancer should be the queen. So, Thimmarasu grumbled, "We will see what can be done to reconcile the dictates of tradition and the dictates of your love…"

Finally, Krishnadeva gave in and married Tirumala Devi, the Princess of Srirangapatna. The wedding ceremony was sooooo huge!! Many, many, MANY people attended the festival.

Soon after, Krishnadeva became Krishnadeva Raya and was crowned Emperor of The Vijayanagar Empire on August 8, 1509. He was officially honoured with the sword of the Emperor and the throne. A few days later, Krishnadeva Raya married his beloved Chinnadevi, too (I know, right?! Two wives!!! That's MAD!!!!).

Meanwhile, the Bahmani King had completed the preparation for the campaign and reached Diwani, where Krishnadeva Raya gave him battle. The fight ensued one-sided, with Krishnadeva Raya routing the forces of the Bahmani Kingdom. Mahmood Shah was shocked!! He didn't know that his forces would prove to be petty in front of the might of the Vijayanagar Empire. He started trembling at the sight of their power, "No, we cannot fight Krishnadeva Raya." The Bahmani Army had to beat a hasty retreat. The Vijayanagar army chased the Bahmani's back to their kingdom. Mahmood Shah was the most scared of all the soldiers. He rode his horse the fastest. But, he didn't ride into the fight, nooo. He rode his horse all the way back to his kingdom in despair and fear, for the Vijayanagar Kindom had given them a sound thrashing.
Back at Vijayanagar, Krishnadeva Raya gave a hearty speech to his army, "Well done, my men!! You have done a good job!! But, our victory should not make us complacent. Pratapa Rudra of Kalinga and Adil Khan of Bijapur are our sworn enemies. Only when they are defeated, shall we know peace. For the sake of our kingdom, we must subdue them." So, the Vijayanagar army set off to silence their enemies.
At Udaigiri, the inaccessible fort, Pratapa Rudra - the King of Kalinga - was amused to hear about Krishnadeva Raya's plans to attack him. His soldiers roared with laughter along with their king, who was rolling on the floor with laughter (ROTFL!!!)!! Pratapa Rudra exclaimed, "Let him first find his way here!! This fort is in the densest part of all forests in the kingdom!!!" Tirumala Raut, the commander of the Kalinga army, was instructed to take charge of the Udaigiri fort. Prince Virabhadra was to take charge of Fort Kondavidu and his father, Pratapa Rudra, was to direct the operations from Fort Potanur. 
The Kalinga army was ready to go. They roared with pride, as they stood to guard their forts.

Krishnadeva Raya personally led his MASSIVE army to Udaigiri. They were marching to the fort when they saw the dense forest that lay in front of them. All of the soldiers were perplexed!! They didn't know what to do!! But, Krishnadeva Raya wasn't perturbed. He pointed to the trees and exclaimed, "Have the trees pulled down and the path cleared. Our army shall move on!!" A mere forest was not going to prevent Krishnadeva Raya from achieving his aim.
The Vijayanagar army set out to clear the forest. Their massive elephants worked day and night to cleanse the dense forest of its huge trees.
A few days later, the Vijayanagar elephants moved all the trees from the once-dense forest and threw them away. Krishnadeva Raya charged with his army, reached Udaigiri, scaled the fort and attacked!! They rained arrows and bashed Tirumala Raut's defences. Tirumala Raut was in awe!! He had never seen such amazing abilities ever!! Many of his soldiers ran away, with fear of being slaughtered by Krishnadeva Raya. Tirumala Raut could not hold out for long.
A few days through the fight, Tirumala Raut sent a messenger to the Vijayanagar camp. He ran like the wind. The Vijayanagar camp was fortified like the real palace!! The messenger managed to slip through and get to Krishnadeva Raya's chambers. He tiptoed inside. There was no light. It was pitch-black.
Suddenly, someone lit a lamp. It was the Emperor. He walked forward with his sword and went to swing it through the messenger's body. But, the messenger pleaded for mercy. He explained, "Our chief, Tirumala Raut, has sent me to tell you that we surrender. We surrender to your army." Krishnadeva Raya hosted a party to celebrate his capture of the Udaigiri Fort. He then proclaimed, "On to Fort Kondavidu!!"

But, The Vijayanagar army, upon reaching the Kondavidu Fort, found it hard to scale the fort. Thimmarasu, who was the commander-in-chief, told Krishnadeva Raya, "The wall is steep and our arrows don't reach far enough to kill Pratapa Rudra's goons. What shall we do?" Krishnadeva Raya replied, "Have bamboo scaffolding erected around the fort."
The Vijayanagar army set to work. Every night, after the days fight was done, they would secretly come and put giant bamboo pillars around the fort and fix them using heavy cement.
As soon as the scaffoldings rose as high as the fort, many soldiers from their camp rushed into the fort. They slaughtered all that stood in their path. Krishnadeva Raya stood on one corner of the scaffolding with Thimmarasu next to him. Krishnadeva was about to shoot an arrow, when he realised, "Appaji, light a match and give it to me," Thimmarasu was confused, but he did as his emperor commanded. Krishnadeva Raya held the match on the end of his arrow, when the point lit into flames!! Krishnadeva Raya whispered, "Appaji, watch me as I pierce the very heart of Kondavidu with this blazing arrow," FLING!!!! Krishnadeva Raya shot the arrow right into the grain storage. Many of the soldiers wanted to save the grain, but some others said that they should fight. Pratapa Rudra's men were in a tizzy!!!
In the confusion that followed, Krishnadeva Raya and his army entered the fort and effortlessly took it. They celebrated their win with a huge feast.

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Bravhearts: Krishnadeva Raya - part 1

Hi there!! Today's story is about the illustrious king of the Vijayanagar Empire, Krishnadeva Raya. He ruled the kingdom from 1509 to 1529, making reach the zenith of its glory. Let's go…

The Vijayanagar Empire, founded in 1336, rose to the zenith of its prosperity in the early sixteenth century. Keeping their capital in modern-day Hampi, the Empire ruled nearly half of India. They ruled the whole Deccan Plateau and more. They even rivalled the Mughals in stature!! Some might even say that they ruled India!!
In 1509, Viranarasimha Raya, the King of Vijayanagar fell seriously ill. Many thought that he wouldn't survive. His condition was growing worse by the day. In the capital, people wondered who would succeed him. There were many debates and disputes over the topic, but there was never a proper answer. Some would say, "The king may nominate his little son!! After all, he is the rightful heir to the throne!!" Whereas others would also say," Never!! Not when his brother, the able Krishnadeva is alive!!" But, the same answer would be reached time and again, "Our king knows what is best for our kingdom." No one could pinpoint who would be Viranarasimha's successor.
But at the moment, the king was more concerned about what was best f0r his son. Resting on his deathbed, with fruits and jewels laid on the small tables, Viranarasimha uttered to Thimmrasu, his most-trusted minister, "Will you fulfil my last wish, Appaji?" (Thimmarasu was lovingly called Appaji by the king) Thimmarasu bowed to his king and replied, "Speak out, Your Majesty. I am ready do to anything you command me to." Viranarasimha closed his eyes and sat up, "My son will never be king if Krishnadeva is alive. He must die. Promise me that you will kill him, Appaji. Please do this for me." Viranarasimha clasped his hands around Thimmarasu's and tried standing up. He faltered and within seconds, his legs gave way. He fell to the ground. Breathing heavily, Viranarasimha whispered, "Appaji! As proof that you've killed him, I'd like his eyes shown to me tomorrow." Thimmarasu was aghast by the king's request. But he had no choice.

When Thimmarasu walked down the stairs, he met Krishnadeva. He ran to him and whispered, "Krishna, are you prepared to die for the king? He has requested that you shall be murdered tomorrow." Krishnadeva wasn't perturbed. He just smiled," Appaji, don't fret. I shall most certainly abide by the king's request. He is my kingdom and I am prepared to die for my kingdom!!"
Thimmarasu spent a horribly sleepless night. He was brooding over the king's decision to kill his own brother. But, he was even more troubled by Krishnadeva's will to die for the king. He couldn't sleep at all. His head was aching from such a troubling experience. He sat on his bed in dismay, for he had to see one of his favourite men, and the possible their to the throne, die.
Early the next morning, before the blazing sun cast its sharp rays onto the earth, Thimmarasu called Krishnadeva outside his chambers.  Krishnadeva was oblivious of why Thimmarasu had called him. He just walked along with him until they reached a horse, laden with commoners' clothes. Krishnadeva was confused, "Appaji, what is this? Please tell me." Thimmarasu just said, "Change into these common clothes." Krishnadeva changed into the clothes and then asked Thimmarasu, "Now will you tell me?" Thimmarasu finally broke, "You must take this horse and leave the capital." Krishnadeva was shocked!! "Appaji, what it this?!" Thimmarasu just said, "I'll tell you some other time. Now, make haste and remember: No one should know who you are and where you come from!!" Krishnadeva mounted the horse and proclaimed, "You can trust me, Appaji." With that, Krishnadeva left the capital.

Krishnadeva travelled the state incognito. He went to many places and stayed at many homes, hoping to find somewhere he could permanently stay. One day, when he was travelling, he came across a temple. It was beautiful, with amazing carvings of many gods on gold pillars. He entered and saw many people sitting in rows. He wondered why they were sitting there, and looked forward. He saw a beautiful dancer, wearing many jewels and gems. She was dancing so pleasantly. He thought to himself, "Wah!! What a divine beauty!!! She looks like a lotus that has just blossomed!" Krishnadeva was entranced by her beauty.
After the dance, Chinnadevi (her name was Chinnadevi, by the way) called Krishnadeva to the temple balcony. She was very inquisitive, "What is your name? Why are you here? Why don't you go home?" Krishnadeva just replied with a similar answer to the one before, "I have no name. I am a traveller. I have nowhere to go," Chinnadevi stared at him with compassion. She cared for him quite a lot. She told him, "Come to my house. I'll give you shelter." Krishnadeva was very grateful to Chinnadevi. She had provided with a home!!
Chinnadevi took Krishnadeva to her home. "Amma!! This man has no home. I have brought him here!!" Chinnadevi's mother was an old lady, who looked very simple and traditional. She said, "Putta, If you have no home, then make this your home." So, Krishna deva stayed at Chinnadevi's house.
Krishnadeva's stay at Chinnadevi's house didn't last long. He only stayed there for a few days. Chinnadevi and her mother didn't know why he had stayed for only such little time!!

Meanwhile, in the capital, the subjects were aghast!!! They were shocked about the disappearance of the prince!! They were shocked!! Viranarasimha only knew that Thimmarasu had killed Krishnadeva, but he didn't know the truth. Only Thimmarasu truly knew what had happened to Krishnadeva. Many people thought that Krishnadeva was dead!! Many others thought that he was missing in the forest!!
The news of Viranarasimha's illness and Krishnadeva's disappearance reached Gulbarga, the capital of the Bahmani Empire. Mahmood Shah, the Bahmani king, was elated, "HaHaHa!!! Now is the time to attack Vijayanagar and make it ours!!!!" Many courtiers and ministers advised the king against it, "What if Krishnadeva comes back?" Mahmood Shah would laugh at their advice. He would reply, "We shall take advantage of Krishnadeva's inexperience!"
A few days later, Viranarasimha got wind of the Bahmani attack. He was afraid, "God!! I must lead my army!!" Thimmarasu was right by his kings side. Suddenly, Viranarasimha fell on his knees in pain. Thimmarasu ran to his aid, "My king!! You aren't fit enough to even walk a few steps!!" Viranarasimha sat back on his deathbed and sighed, "Alas! If only Krishnadeva were alive!!!" Thimmarasu smiled and thought to himself, "Now is the time to bring back Krishnadeva," Thimmarasu explained to the king about how he made Krishnadeva escape the city and how he has been incognito. Viranarasimha was elated!!! He immediately summoned a search party for Krishnadeva.
The next day, Krishnadeva was in the king's room. Viranarasimha's condition had worsened. Viranarsimha begged Krishnadeva for forgiveness. Krishnadeva only replied, "Let bygones be bygones, Your Majesty."
Krishnadeva was talking to the king, when, "Krishna… Krishna… Eeeh…" Suddenly, the king's hand fell from his grasp. He breathed his last breath.

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Avatars of Lord Vishnu: Hayagreeva vs Hayagriva

Hi there!! First of all, I'd like to make a disclaimer: I have differentiated the names of Hayagriva and Hayagreeva. Hayagriva - Asura and Hayagreeva - God. Today's story is about the Asura king, Hayagriva and his namesake slayer, Hayagreeva. Hayagreeva was an avatar of Lord Vishnu, who is depicted as a horse with the body of a man. Sometimes, he is compared to Balarama in the Dashavatar. Let's get on with the story, then…

In his quest for eternal life, an Asura king called Hayagriva believed that if he prayed to the Holy Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) for the amrut (the Nectar of Immortality), they would certainly try and outwit and kill him. He knew that the Trinity could kill him if need be, so he decided to pray to Goddess Shakti. Shakti was considered the divine and cosmic energy.
Hayagriva prayed for many, many, MANY years, with all hope to see Shakti. He worshipped her with absolute love and care, performing poojas and yajnas to please Shakti. He was devoted to her. With focus, he performed a great penance for Shakti.
After many weeks, Shakti appeared in front 0f Hayagriva. Bowing down, Hayagriva said, " Namaskara, O Shakti. Your mere presence is enough to enlighten me. " Shakti nodded and lifted her hand. She blessed Hayagriva," Hello, Hayagriva. I have been pleased by you. What is it that you desire?" Hayagriva chuckled. He smiled a vicious smile, "I desire the Nectar of Immortality, the amrut!!" Shakti was shocked!! She didn't think that Hayagriva would ask for the amrut!! Suddenly, she said, "Hayagriva!! The nectar of immortality is not for the likes of you. I have seen what you will do when you possess the amrut. I deny you of your wish," Hayagriva roared with anger. He couldn't think of anything else that he wanted. Suddenly, an idea sparked in his head, "I wish to be killed only by someone who has the same name as me, and who has a god's body and a horse's head!" Shakti smiled and said, "Thatha Astu!!!" With that, Shakti flew off to the skies, leaving Hayagriva.

Hayagriva was convinced that this was as good as being immortal, for he didn't think that a creature such as he described existed! Believing he would never die, the clever Asura continued his evil ways, slaughtering all who stood in his path. He routed petty kingdoms and brought them under his reign. He inflicted horrid cruelties on traitors with force and vigour.
The brutal king's subjects suffered heavy losses and were forced to toil. They spoke to each other, "How can there be a being with the same name, a god's body and a horse's head of Hayagriva? He can't die!!" Finally, the people rushed to Brahma for assistance.
Brahma, who was resting on his lotus, saw the mad crowd and eased them with his powers. They slowly told him, "O Brahma, we can't live with Hayagriva as the king. Please save us from his tyranny!!" Brahma had nothing to offer them. He had no solution!! So, the people and Brahma went to see Shiva, who again had nothing.
Together, they all marched to Lord Vishnu. When they reached the Lord's abode, they found a standing Vishnu fast asleep!! He was so tired after many battles with the Asuras, that he had fallen asleep standing and still holding his bow, Saranga, in his hand.
Brahma was reluctant to wake Vishnu, but he had no choice. He clapped his hands loudly. Vishnu didn't wake up. Shiva also joined the clapping. But, Vishnu didn't rise!! Soon, the whole crowd were clapping, until it sounded like a million tons were being beaten!!! But, Vishnu didn't wake up (Sounds like Vishnu was a heavy sleeper!! He must have taken a few sleeping pills to sleep through that noise!!!)!!!! Finally, Brahma found a solution. He could cut the string of the bow, making a louder sound than anything ever!!! So, he created a colony of chalk white ants, He thought the ants could eat the string, and make the noise when it snapped. But he was mistaken. Mistaken BADLY!!!!!!

The ants ate up the thread in the blink of an eye, and the bow opened up with so much force, that KCCCHHHAAAAAKKKK!!!!!!! Vishnu's head was rolling on the floor, with blood oozing from the bottom!!!!! Brahma and Shiva were not prepared for this!! They ran about in terror, and so did the people. Suddenly, a HUGE ruckus was going on at Vishnu's abode (I can't imagine what Vishnu's neighbours would have to say!!)!!! Slowly, Brahma and Shiva regained their composure, but were still in alarm. They prayed to Shakti to fix what they had done.
Shakti appeared before them and calmly said, "Don't fret. Vishnu will be fine!" The two gods were in shock!!! They didn't understand!! They had just cut off Vishnu's head!! How could he be fine?! Shakti then explained, "One day, Vishnu and Lakshmi were speaking to each other. Suddenly, Vishnu started taunting her, 'O Lakshmi!! Look at your relatives - Your father is the sea, but no one even drinks a sip of his salty water, and what to say about your brothers, who emerged along with your from the sea? Chandra stays healthy for two weeks and then falls sick then next, Halahala made the Great Shiva turn blue, Amrut caused a great war, and Ucchaishravas, your seven-headed horse brother, is constantly galloping around!! HaHa!!' Lakshmi was deeply offended. She replied, "How could you say that, Vishnu? The world survives because of my father, Chandra lights up the Earth during the night, Shiva was able to save the world because of his blue throat, Amrut made the gods obtain immortality and everyone adores horses because of Ucchaishravas. Someday, you will know how it is like to be a horse,' So, Lakshmi cursed Vishnu to become a horse. He was predestined to become this way." Shiva and Brahma then understood, "Oooohh!!!!!" Shakti walked into Vishnu's garden and, picking up her glistening sword, cut off a white horse's head!! She dragged the blood-stained head over to Vishnu's still-standing body, and lifted the horsehead onto Vishnu's body. She proclaimed, "You are now named Hayagreeva. You shall destroy your namesake Asura and come back victorious," Hayagreeva neighed in agreement and set off to kill Hayagriva.

Hayagreeva ran into Hayagriva's palace and bashed Hayagriva's head on the wall. BASH!!!! He banged his mace into the chest of Hayagriva. BANG!!!!! Finally, he jumped onto Hayagriva's body and severed his head from his body. All of the workers started jumping in joy, as the tyrant had been killed. The monster had been defeated. They frolicked with joy, as their kingdom was free from the terrible reign of Hayagriva.
Hayagreeva flew back to Vaikunta and went to his abode. Suddenly, the horse's head fell off, and Vishnu's normal head flew back onto his neck. All of the people there, including Shiva and Brahma, bowed to Hayagreeva. They bowed to their saviour.
Thus, Hayagreeva killed Hayagriva and saved the people.

Fun Fact Nº 1: There is even a lentil-based sweet named Hayagreeva, which is dedicated to Vishnu's slaying of Hayagriva.

Fun Fact Nº 2: Before he meditated, Saint Vadiraja used to make the Hayagreeva sweet and keep it on his head in a vessel. By the time he finished, Lord Vishnu in the form of a horse would come and eat it all up! He did this in the Tapovana Forest.

Thanks for reading Avatars of Vishnu: Hayagreeva vs Hayagriva!! Please type your email in the box above the followers and click the blue button to receive emails about my posts!!!! Happy Reading!!!