Join Cultural Samvaad’s WhatsApp Community
The great Trivikrama Vishnu in his Vamana avatar of a young Brahmin boy humbled the powerful King Bali. He is regarded as the fifth among the Dashavatars (5th avatar among 10 avatars or incarnations of Vishnu), is worshipped by one and all and the story or katha is recounted at many festivals including Varaha Jayanti, Onam and Diwali.
A Popular Version of the Story of Vishnu’s Vamana Avatar
In ancient times, there lived a powerful asura king called Bali. He had defeated Indra and the devatas and ruled over the earth and the skies. As per the many stories that have come down to us, Bali was an able ruler but given to arrogance. At the request of Indra and the devatas who were troubled by him, Shri Vishnu decided to intervene at an appropriate time. The opportunity arose when King Bali organised a great yagya or sacrifice to further cement his position. Hari took the avatar of a young Brahmana boy and went to the yagyashala or sacrificial grounds. King Bali was mesmerised by the radiant and self-effulgent young Brahman who was none other than Vishnu in his Vamana avatar. He promised Vamana to grant him any gift that he would ask for even though Guru Shukracharya advised him against it.
The young boy asked Bali for that land which he could cover in three steps. The King was surprised and even egged Vamana to ask for more. Vamana categorically declared that three steps of land would be enough for him and the Asura king agreed. Lo and behold, the small and radiant child transformed into the dazzling Vishnu. His gigantic, brilliant form seemed to fill the entire universe.
In his first step, Shri Vishnu covered the entire earth. In his second giant step, he covered all the skies. He then asked the shocked and humbled king Bali – ‘Where should I place my third step?’ Steeped in devotion and having realized his mistake, Bali bent down and said, ‘O Vishnu, this entire universe is under your command. Who am I to tell you what to do? But I do want to make a request. Please cover me in your third step and bless me.’
The great Hari placed his foot on the wise Asura King Bali, made him the ruler of the nether worlds and showered him with his grace.
Add comment