Two most popular stories of Rakshabandhan: Happy Rakshabandhan
Introduction
Rakshabandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a beloved Indian festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is a day of love, protection, and the exchange of heartfelt vows. In this article, we will explore the two most popular stories associated with Rakshabandhan, stories that exemplify the unbreakable bond between siblings.
1st Story: The Tale of Maharaj Bali
The Devotion of Maharaj Bali
Long ago, there lived a noble king named Maharaj Bali, who was a descendant devotee of Prahlad and an ardent follower of Lord Vishnu. He was known far and wide for his unwavering faith and dedication.
The Worries of the Gods
One day, Maharaj Bali decided to perform 101 Yagyas (sacrificial rituals). This decision created anxiety among the gods and goddesses in the heavens. They feared that if Maharaj Bali continued with these rituals, he might one day take over the throne of heaven.
Lord Vishnu's Solution
In their distress, the demigods sought the refuge of Lord Vishnu. They pleaded with Him to find a solution to this impending crisis. In response, Lord Vishnu devised a plan.
Lord Vamana's Incarnation
Lord Vishnu took on the form of a small Brahmin and entered the palace of Maharaj Bali. He appeared as Vamana Avatar, a beautiful and innocent-looking boy. Seeing this divine presence, Maharaj Bali eagerly offered to grant the boy any wish.
The Humble Request
Surprisingly, Lord Vamana asked for just three steps of land. With the king's consent, Lord Vamana took his first step, covering the earth, and his second step, reaching the heavens. It became evident to Bali that he was dealing with a deity.
King Bali's Devotion
In an act of ultimate devotion, King Bali humbly requested Lord Vamana to place His third step on his head. Lord Vamana complied, sending King Bali to Patal Lok (the netherworld). Even in this new realm, Bali continued his unwavering devotion to the Lord.
The Boon of Devotion
Impressed by Bali's devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before him and granted him a boon. Bali requested that Lord Vishnu become his gatekeeper, so he could witness the Lord's divine presence always. The Lord, being the Bhaktavatsal (lover of His devotees), agreed.
Mata Lakshmi's Rakhi
In Vaikuntha, Goddess Lakshmi awaited Lord Vishnu's return. But He was now the gatekeeper of Bali Maharaj. In a beautiful turn of events, on the day of Shravan Shukla Purnima, Mata Lakshmi tied a rakhi on Bali Maharaj's wrist, considering him her brother.
A Holy Bond
Bali Maharaj, touched by her gesture, promised to fulfill her wish. Mata Lakshmi, with her brother's permission, took Lord Vishnu back to Vaikuntha. From that day forward, the sacred bond between brothers and sisters has been celebrated with great affection during Rakshabandhan.
2nd Story: The Protection of Draupadi
Shishupala's Arrogance
Our second story takes us to the epic Mahabharata. It revolves around Shishupala, a man whose arrogance has no bounds. His insolence reached a point where Lord Krishna had to intervene.
The Divine Intervention
In a fit of anger, Lord Krishna used his Sudarshan Chakra to end Shishupala's life. However, in the process, Krishna's finger was injured, and blood began to flow.
Draupadi's Act of Love
Draupadi, the virtuous and compassionate queen, immediately tore her new saree and used it as a bandage to stop the bleeding from Krishna's finger. This selfless act deeply moved Lord Krishna.
Krishna's Promise
Touched by Draupadi's love and care, Lord Krishna made a solemn promise to protect her always. This pledge would later prove crucial during the dark days of the Mahabharata.
Protecting Draupadi's Honor
When Duryodhana and Dusshasana attempted to disrobe Draupadi in the court of Hastinapur, Lord Krishna intervened once again. He miraculously extended her saree to an unending length, preserving her dignity.
Conclusion
These two stories, one from mythology and the other from epic history, beautifully depict the enduring bond between brothers and sisters. Rakshabandhan, with its sacred thread, symbolizes this unbreakable connection and the promise of protection and love.
Celebrate Rakshabandhan with joy and reverence, cherishing the cherished bonds that define this wonderful festival.
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