Last month, we brought you the first part of the Seven Chiranjivis or
Immortals of
Hindu
Mythology. The term Chiranjivi describes those who remain alive on
Earth, until the end of the current epoch, the Kaliyuga. These great
personalities are also referred as "Amaras", or those who do not have death.
In our previous issue, we related the stories of Ashwatthama, King Mahabali
and Veda Vyasa. In this chapter, we bring you the legends of the other
Chiranjivis, namely, Hanuman, Vibhishana , Kripacharya and Lord Parashurama.
Hanuman
Hanuman or Anjaneya is an ardent devotee of
Rama,
an avatara of Sri Maha Vishnu. One of of the pivotal characters of the epic
Ramayana, he is worshipped not only in India, but also in Sri Lanka and
several countries in Southeast Asia. As a Chiranjivi, he enjoys a prominent
place in several other works, including the Mahabharata, the Puranas and
even some Buddhist, Jain and Sikh texts. Many of these texts extol him as an
incarnation of Shiva.
Origins of Hanuman
The origins of
Hanuman
in Hinduism are unclear. According to some theories, a similar ancient
non-Aryan deity was later Sanskritized by the Vedic Aryans. Yet others aver
that he first emerged in the earliest literary works as a folk Yaksha - a
protector deity of yore. In later literature, he is viewed as the patron God
of the martial arts, acrobatics, as well as meditation and devotion.
In today's time, Hanuman is a popular
deity,
viewed as the best example of strength, devotion, heroism and everlasting
love and loyalty towards his personal God, Rama. He is seen as an embodiment
of faith, self-control, shakti (strength) and bhakti (devotion).
Nomenclature
The origin or meaning of the word "Hanuman" is unclear. One Puranic version
suggests that the name could have come from the root "Hanu", which means,
"the one having a prominent jaw (mant)". According to another version, the
name is derived from the Sanskrit words, "Han" (killed or destroyed) and
"Maana" (pride). In this case, the name implies, "one whose pride was killed
or destroyed". A third version, found in
Jain
texts, indicates that the name was derived from the island "Hanuruha", where
Hanuman spent his childhood.
Linguistic variations of Hanuman include Anuman, Hanumat, Hanumantha,
Hanumanthudu and so on. Hanuman's other names include Anjaneya, Anjaniputra,
Anjanisuta and Anjaneyar (all of them meaning "son of Anjana"), Kesari
Nandan (son of Kesari), Maruti, Vayu Putra or Pawan Putra (son of Vayu, the
Wind God), Bajrang Bali (the one with strong limbs, powerful like a Vajra or
thunderbolt) and Sankata Mochan (the one who destroys sorrows). Outside the
Indian subcontinent, his name and descriptions vary slightly. In Indonesia,
he is referred to as Anoman and Sang Kera Pemuja Dewa Rama, Hanuman (the
mighty devotee of Rama, Hanuman) and as Handuman in Malaysia.
Early Mentions
- The earliest mention of Hanuman is in the Rigveda,
dated between 1500 to 1200 BCE. This appears as a dialogue between Lord
Indra, his wife Indrani, an energetic monkey called Vrisakapi and his
wife Kapi.
- Hanuman receives prominent mention in the Puranas.
In a medieval legend dated as early as the 8th century CE, Hanuman is
referred to as an avatara of Lord Shiva himself. Besides, ancient texts
such as the Mahabhagvata Purana, the Skanda Purana and the Brhaddharma
Purana also talk about his strength and power. Interestingly, some
legends found in South India talk of Hanuman as the union of Vishnu and
Shiva and is even associated with the origin of Lord Ayyappa.
- In the Valmiki
Ramayana; composed around the 3rd century BCE; Hanuman is one of the
most central figures. The most trusted friend and the main messenger of
Lord Rama, he is extolled as the best example of devotion, love, loyalty
and strength. However, it was only in the late medieval era that he
emerged into such a pivotal character. This popularity was largely due
to the emergence and growth of the Bhakti movement (around the 16th
century) and also vernacular texts such as the Ramcharitmanas by
Tulsidas.
- From around the 17th century, stories and legends began to portray
Hanuman as a divine being and an avatara of Shiva himself. He then came
to be considered as the champion of the downtrodden, a martial artist
par excellence and a highly spiritually evolved yogi as well.
Iconography
Hanuman is depicted as a strong and muscular half-man half-monkey. He is
either found being by himself or more commonly, with Rama and Sita. In the
latter case, he is shown kneeling on the ground, to the right of Rama,
humbly bowing down to him. If alone, he carries weapons such as the Gada
(Mace) and/or the Vajra (thunderbolt).
Hanuman with Rama and Sita
The relatively uncommon
Panchamukhi
Hanuman is a five-headed icon, found in esoteric tantric traditions.
In some parts of North India, he is venerated in the form of a round stone.
This helps Yogic focus on his abstract, spiritual form.
Birth and Childhood
According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman was born to Kesari and Anjana. He is
also believed to be the son of Vayu, the Wind God. This is because Vayu had
an important role in Hanuman's birth.
One version, as narrated in Eknath's Bhavartha Ramayana, relates that when
Anjana was worshipping
Shiva,
King Dasharatha of Ayodhya was also performing the riual of the Putrakama
Yagna (in order to beget a son). During the course of the Yagna, he received
some payasam (pudding) as prasad. He was asked to give the same to his
wives. They shared the payasam and soon, became pregnant. Thus, Rama,
Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrughna were born by divine ordinance.
At that time, a kite happened to fly past them. It snatched a little bit
from the payasam and accidentally dropped it while flying over the forest
where Anjana lived. She was deeply immersed in prayer. Vayu, knowing that
she was the one ordained to give birth to a great soul like Hanuman,
delivered the falling bit of payasam to the outstretched hands of Anjana.
Opening her eyes, she was surprised to see the pudding. Considering it as a
blessing from the Lord, she consumed it. Soon, she gave birth to Hanuman.
Hanuman Reaches for the Sun
The Valmiki Ramayana relates several beautiful stories and anecdotes about
Hanuman, especially during his childhood. One day, little Hanuman was hungry
and was in search of something nice to eat. He saw the rising
sun
and was immediately attracted to it. Mistaking it for a fruit, he leapt up
to consume it.
According to one version,
Indra,
the King of the Gods, saw what was happening and became worried about the
consequences of the little boy eating up the Sun! So he intervened and
struck him with his Vajra (thunderbolt). It hit Hanuman in his jaw and
rendered him unconscious. The boy fell to the earth and lay unconscious
there. On seeing this, Vayu became upset and completely withdrew unto
himself. The lack of air created tremendous suffering throughout the whole
world. Knowing how much more chaos this could cause, Prajapati, the God of
Life, resuscitated Hanuman and begged Vayu to restore peace to the Earth.
Yet another uncommon version narrates that, after Hanuman leapt towards the
Sun, he was burnt to ashes by its heat and intensity. The ashes fell onto
the earth and the oceans. The Gods then collected all his ashes and bones,
from land and sea. They then reassembled him and made him whole. They only
missed a fragment of his jawbone. On his great grandfather's request, Surya
(the Sun God) brought the boy back to life. However, Hanuman was left with a
permanently disfigured jaw.
Attributes
Hanuman has several extraordinary attributes, such as follows:
- Chiranjivi: He is a Chiranjivi or Immortal. Many
versions of Ramayana state that, just before Rama and Lakshmana left
this mortal world, they blessed Hanuman that he would be immortal.
- Kama-Rupin: He is a Kama-rupin - one capable of
shifting his shape at will. He has the power to become smaller than an
atom and larger than the largest living being. He used this quality to
enter Lanka, when he went there in search of Devi Sita. Later, he took a
gigantic form, emitting brilliant radiance, in order to show Sita
his true power.
- Very Strong: Hanuman is extraordinarily strong. He
traversed across the mighty ocean with just one leap. He also
effortlessly carried an entire mountain to Rama. During the war between
Rama and Ravana,
Lakshmana was grievously wounded. He could only be healed by a herb
called Sanjeevani, which could be found only in one particular Himalayan
mountain. Hanuman reached the mountain in one leap, but could not find
the Sanjeevani. Not wanting to waste time, he lifted the entire mountain
and carried it back to Sri Lanka, thus saving Lakshmana's life. This is
a popular iconography of Hanuman, where he is shown flying high in the
sky, carrying a mountain in the palm of his hand. On account of his
strength, he is called Vira, Mahavira and Mahabala.
Hanuman lifting a mountain
- Clever: Hanuman is also described as someone who is
clever and who cannot be easily subdued by his enemies. He faced many
difficult situations in his life, but always fought back and emerged the
winner. In one instance, after he found Sita in Ashok Van (Ravana's
grove), he proceeded back to Rama to relay the good news to him.
However, he was caught and arrested at Lanka and was imprisoned and
brought before King Ravana. The latter ordered his public execution.
Ravana's guards then tied his tailed with oiled cloth and set it on
fire. The clever and agile Hanuman escaped from their grasp and jumped
from one palace rooftop to the other, thus burning down everything in
sight. He then went to the seashore and dipped his tail in the sea, to
put off the fire in his tail. This and many other stories provide ample
proof of his strength and wit. In fact, many scholars aver that Rama
could not have won the battle with Ravana, without Hanuman's able
support at all times.
- Devoted: Hanuman is considered as the most exemplary
devotee of Rama. The Sundara Kanda, the fifth book in the Ramayana,
speaks in detail about Hanuman and his love and devotion for Rama.
Hanuman met his Lord in the last year of the latter's 14-year exile. By
this time, Ravana had kidnapped Sita and Rama was in search of her,
along with his brother Lakshmana. Hindu texts such as the Bhagavata
Purana, the Ananda Ramayana, the Bhakta Mala and the Ramcharitmanas
portray him as a mighty, brave, highly spiritual being, entirely devoted
to Rama. He is once said to have torn open his own chest to reveal the
presence of Rama and Sita in his heart. This is yet another popular
depiction of Hanuman, with his Ishta Devata residing in his heart.
- Remover of Obstacles: In devotional literature,
Hanuman is revered as the remover of obstacles. Besides, he was a highly
learned scholar, had full knowledge of the Vedas and Vedantic
philosophy, was a poet, singer and musician, a polymath and a grammarian
par excellence.
In the Mahabharata
Hanuman enjoys pride of place in the
Mahabharata
as well. In Vana Parva, Book 3 of the epic, he is described as the
half-brother of the Pandava Prince, Bheema. The latter accidentally meets
him on his way to Kailasa. Hanuman lay in the middle of the narrow path, his
tail blocking the road. Arrogant about his strength, Bheema attempted to
move Hanuman's tail. However, despite putting in all his might, he could not
move it even an inch. He then realized that this was no ordinary monkey. On
knowing the monkey's real identity, Bheema was completely humbled.
This legend is part of the artwork and reliefs in many temples, including
those at the Vijayanagara ruins.
Hanuman's image was also present on the flag of Arjuna's chariot. It was
symbolic of Hanuman himself sitting atop the chariot, protecting the
warrior. Lord Krishna himself was Arjuna's charioteer during the Great War
of Kurukshetra. However, he knew that having Hanuman protect him would
further ensure his victory against the Kauravas. Hanuman belonged to the
Maharathi Class of warriors. However, his extraordinary strength made him
fit to be venerated as an Atimaharathi.
Arjuna's Chariot with Hanuman on Top
During the Treta Yuga, Hanuman had offered himself as a sort of shield to
protect Rama and his entire Vanara Sena (Army of Monkeys). Twice, he had
resisted the impact of the all-powerful Brahmastra. He had also remained
unaffected even when attacked by Shiva's Pashupatastra.
Considering the above, Krishna knew that having Hanuman's grace would
protect Arjuna from all deadly weapons and ensure his triumph over the
enemy.
Is Hanuman Married?
Traditionally, it is believed that Hanuman is a Brahmachari or celibate. He
had only Rama and Sita in his heart. His whole heart was filled with his
Ishta Devata and so, he decided that he did not want anyone else to come and
occupy that sacred space.
However, some Southeast Asian versions suggest that he was married to
Ravana's daughter, Suvannamaccha (literally meaning, "golden fish"). She was
a mermaid-like creature. Her main aim was to spoil Hanuman's efforts to
build a bridge to Lanka. However, she failed in all her attempts to do so
and, instead, fell in love with him.
Yet other versions state that Hanuman was married to Suvarchala, the
daughter of Surya. Suvarchala was an ayoniya (the one born without the
participation of the yoni, that is, one who was not born of sexual contact).
Hanuman wanted to learn the Nava Vyakaranas and for that, he compulsorily
had to get married. However, he had already taken the vow of being an
Aajanma Brahmachari (life-long bachelor). Hence, Surya created Suvarchala
with his spiritual energy and granted Hanuman a boon that he would always
remain a celibate even after marriage.
Some scholars aver that Suvarchala was only a divine energy and not an
actual human person. She was born from the grace of the Sun God and was then
associated with Hanuman. Besides, some ritual forms of worship stipulate
that deities must be accompanied by their respective Shaktis (female
counterparts), specific vahanas (vehicles) or ayudhas (weapons). They could
also have necessitated Hanuman to have his own divine feminine companion.
Makaradhwaja - Hanuman's Son
Makaradhwaja is Hanuman's son - he makes a brief appearance in the Valmiki
Ramayana. After setting the whole of Lanka on fire, Hanuman decided to take
a dip in the cool waters of the sea. As he was sitting by the sea, a drop of
his perspiration fell into the mouth of Makara, a mighty
fish-cum-reptile-like creature. She instantly became pregnant.
The fish was caught by the fisherfolk of Ahiravana, who ruled Patala, the
Netherworld. Cutting open her stomach, they discovered the unborn fish in
there and named the young one after its mother. Seeing his great strength
and agility, Ahiravana gave him the responsibility of guarding the gates of
his kingdom.
When Hanuman went to Patala to rescue Rama and Lakshmana from there, he was
stopped at the gate by Makaradhwaja. He proudly introduced himself as
Hanuman's son and said that he would have to fight and defeat him before
entering the kingdom. Initially, Hanuman refused to believe that he had a
son. However, when he went into dhyana (meditation), he recollected the past
events and the situations leading to his son's birth.
When Makaradhwaja realized that this was his own father, he took his
blessings, but insisted that he would not be able to enter Patala without
fighting him. Hanuman defeated Makaradhwaja with ease, securely bound him
and then went on to kill Ahiravana and rescue Rama and Lakshmana.
Later, on Rama's advice, Hanuman installed Makaradhwaja as the King of
Patala, before returning to Lanka.
Hanuman Chalisa
In the 16th century, poet Tulsidas penned the
Hanuman
Chalisa, a set of forty chaupais or quatrains dedicated to Hanuman. He
is believed to have had visions, where he met Hanuman face-to-face. Even
now, this hymn is considered to be sacrosanct and is chanted by Hindus all
over the world.
In Other Cultures
- Hanuman is venerated in various other South East Asian and Buddhist
cultures, including Tibetan and Khotanese (west China, central Asia and
northern Iran) cultures. In Japan, icons of Saruta Biko, the divine
monkey, guard temples such as Saru-gami at Hie Shrine. In Sri Lanka too,
one can find several legends related to Hanuman. In the Sinhalese
versions, the characters have Buddhist themes, also mentioning him
meeting with the Buddha.
- In Cambodia, Hanuman is adored as a heroic figure in Khmer history. He
features in the Reamker, a Cambodian epic poem, based on the Ramayana.
Elaborate carvings from the scenes of the Ramayana can be found, even
today, on the walls of Angkor Wat.
- In Bali, Indonesia, Hanuman is a central character in many dance and
drama works, such as Wayang Wong. These arts can be traced as early as
the 10th century.
- The Jain version of the Ramayana mentions Hanuman not as a divine
monkey, but as a Vidyadhara; a demigod or supernatural being. Here, he
is not celibate, but instead, is a sexually active entity. He marries
princess Anangakusuma, the daughter of Kharadushana and Ravana's sister,
Chandranakha. Ravana is also believed to have presented one of his
nieces as a second wife. Eventually, Hanuman renounces worldly life and
becomes a Jain ascetic.
- Hanuman is also venerated among the Sikh community, as a siddha beyond
compare.
Temples Dedicated to the Worship of Hanuman
There are several temples and shrines dedicated to the worship of Hanuman.
To Hindus, Tuesdays and Saturdays are the most popular days for Hanuman
worship. The following are some of the oldest and biggest temples:
The temple at Khajuraho is the oldest known Hanuman temple. Others include
the Jakhu temple in Shimla; the Veera Abhaya Anjaneya Swami (which stands
135 feet tall) at Paritala in Andhra Pradesh; the Hanuman Dhara temple in
Chitrakoot, which features the Panchamukhi Hanuman; the Sholinghur Sri Yoga
Narasimha Swami Temple and Sri Yoga Anjaneyar Temple in Vellore District; a
monumental statue of Hanuman in Nerul, Navi Mumbai; another imposing statue
at the Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple and many, many more.
Hanuman, being a popular God, one can find an immense number of temples all
over India and abroad. Practically every locality in Indian villages, towns
and cities has at least one little roadside Hanuman temple, which is
frequently visited by people in and around that area.
Festivals
Hanuman features prominently in annual Ramlila celebrations in India and
abroad. The Ramlila is a dramatic musical presentation of the Ramayana and
is popular in North India and parts of Southeast Asia.
Some Hindus celebrate Hanuman Jayanti (his birthday), which falls in the
traditional month of Chaitra in the lunisolar Hindu calendar (sometime in
March/April). In parts of South India, however, Hanuman Jayanti is observed
in the Tamil month of Margazhi, which falls in December/January.
On this day, devotees gather at temples before sunrise and undertake
day-long spiritual and ritual celebrations.
Vibhishana
Vibhishana, who features prominently in the Ramayana, was one of the rulers
of Lanka. The younger brother of the Demon King Ravana, Vibhishana was a
noble soul (in spite of being a demon himself). He always remained on the
side of the Dharma and often advised his brothers to stay away from adharmic
activities.
Vibhishana was very upset when Ravana abducted Sita and kept her captive at
Ashokvan. He requested him, several times, to return her to her husband
Rama. However, his pleas fell on deaf ears - Ravana refused to heed his
words. Eventually, Vibhishana gave up and joined Rama's army. After Ravana
was killed, Rama crowned Vibhishana as the king of Lanka.
In the Ramayana
Vibhishana was the youngest son of Kaikesi and Sage Vishrava, who was the
son of Sage Pulatsya. Incidentally, Sage Pulatsya was one of Heaven's
Guardians. Ravana and Kumbhakarna (the King of Sleep) were his other
brothers.
Soorpanakha was his sister and Kubera (the God of Wealth) was his
half-brother.
From early childhood, Vibhishana had a pure and pious heart. He considered
himself to be a Brahmin and spent much time meditating on the name of the
Lord. Finally, Lord Brahma appeared before him and told him to ask for any
boon he wished. To this, he replied that the only thing he ever wanted was
that he should remain devoted to his Lord, at all times, throughout his
life. He also prayed that he should always have the good fortune of getting
the darshan of Lord Vishnu. Pleased, Brahma granted him his wish and
disappeared.
Now, Ravana was always hungry for wealth and power - he also wanted the
throne for himself. Due to irreconcilable differences of opinion with him;
especially due to the fact that Ravana had abducted Sita; Vibhishana decided
to flee Lanka. Their mother, Kaikesi, advised him to go meet Lord Rama and
serve him. At that time, Rama was in the process of assembling his Vanara
Sena (Army of Monkeys) to fight and defeat Ravana and bring back Sita.
Vibhishana Meets Rama
One day, when Rama and Sita were worshipping the Shivalinga at Rameswaram,
Vibhishana looked on at this devout couple. He instantly knew they were no
ordinary human beings and sensed their divinity right away.
After they had finished their prayers, Vibhishana walked up to them,
introduced himself and related his desire of serving Rama. He then divulged
the secrets of Ravana's army and tirelessly worked to ensure Rama's victory
in his ensuing battle with Ravana.
Vibhishana proved to be an invaluable asset to Rama. In fact, he emerged as
one of the key factors of Rama's triumph. He divulged many a secret of
Lanka, including a hidden path to the temple of Mata Nikumbala, the
Kuladevata (family deity) of the Pulatsya Clan. He then also disclosed the
only way Rama would be able to kill Ravana - by shooting an arrow on his
Nabhi (navel); wherein was stored the Devamrita (Nector of Immortality).
Symbolically, Vibhishana embodies total and complete devotion to Lord Rama.
This story also clearly indicates that, in order to live a Brahmin's life,
you do not need to be born as a
Brahmin.
That status comes from good behavior and not from birth or family
background. The legend further illustrates the fact that God does not
distinguish between his devotees based on birth, caste or other conditions.
His Grace flows on those who keep up their faith and uphold the
Dharma
under all circumstances.
Once Vibhishana was crowned as the King of Lanka, he ruled wisely and never
ever swerved from dharma and discharging his duties to the best of his
abilities. His wife, Queen Sarama, was equally pious and devoted and helped
him in his efforts. They had one daughter, named Trijata.
Just before leaving for Ayodhya, Rama appeared in his original form of Shri
Maha Vishnu and advised Vibhishana to stay on Earth and serve his subjects;
adhering to the highest morals and values. Vishnu also told him to
henceforth pray to the family deity of Rama's Suryavansha (Sun Dynasty),
Lord Ranganatha (also a form of Vishnu).
In the Mahabharata
Vibhishana also features in the Mahabharata. In this epic, he is associated
with the legend of the Ranganathaswamy temple at Srirangam. This temple is
considered to be the Bhooloka Vaikuntha or the abode of Sri Maha Vishnu on
Earth. As the legend goes, during the Pattabhishekha (coronation ceremony)
of Rama, Vibhishana was presented with the sacrosanct Sri Ranga Vimana.
After the function was over, he proceeded back towards Lanka, carrying it
with him. Midway through his journey, he wanted some rest and placed the
image on the banks of the Kaveri River.
After performing his routine round of poojas, he tried to lift the Vimana,
but could not move it an inch. Dismayed at the thought that he had sinned in
some way, he prayed to Vishnu. The latter appeared before him and said that
he desired to stay on as Ranganatha in that place. This location went on to
become the sacred Srirangam. Vishnu also said that he desired to watch the
Brahmotsavam ceremony at Tirucherai. Thus, the festivals of this temple are
held in a grand manner, to please Sri Maha Vishnu.
In Other Cultures
During the Kotte period (around the 15th century), Sinhalese considered
Vibhishana as one of the four Heavenly Kings (satara varam deviyo). He is
still worshipped as a deity and enjoys a few followers, particularly in the
Kelaniya area.
According to the Six Adventures of the Razmnama (Book of War), which is a
Persian translation of the Mahabharata, Vibhishana stole the horse which was
sent out by Arjuna during his Ashwamedha Yagna. When Arjuna came to know
about this, he accosted the former and recovered the horse from him.
Kripacharya
Kripa, also known as Kripacharya, is yet another important character in the
Mahabharata. He was the son of Shardwana and Janapadi. He and his twin
sister, Kripi, were adopted by King Shantanu. Kripi later went on to marry
Drona. A mighty Maharathi, Kripa fought on the side of the Kauravas during
the Great War of Kurukshetra. Considered to be among the foremost of Rishis
(sages), Kripa is also one of the Saptarishis in the 8th Manavantara.
Birth
Maharishi Gautama had a grandson called Shardwana. He was named thus, as he
was born with arrows. This made it clear to everyone that he was born to
become an archer. As he grew up, the boy showed great skill in archery. He
then started undertaking penance in order to become an unbeatable one. This
made the Gods, especially Indra (the God of the Gods) uncomfortable and
insecure. Indra sent a beautiful Apsara, Janapadi, to distract him from his
penance.
Seeing Janapadi, Shardwana was immediately smitten and completely lost
control of himself. Highly disturbed, he dropped his weapons and retreated
into the forest to undergo more severe penance. His semen fell on some weeds
growing by the wayside. This divided the weeds into two. A boy and a girl
were born from each of these two sections.
Shantanu, who then ruled over Hastinapura, happened to pass through that
path. Seeing these radiant infants, he instantly knew they were no ordinary
children and that they came from a great Brahmin. He named the boy and girl
Kripa and Kripi respectively and took them to his palace.
Kripa and Kripi Train in Archery
When Shardwana came to know that two children were born of him, he went to
the palace and told the king about their true identity. He then performed
several rituals for their health and happiness and also taught them the
Vedas, Shastras and archery as well.
With time, the children grew up to become masters in the art of warfare.
Kripa, especially, was an expert in employing all forms of weapons and
combat skills. On reaching the right age, Kripa was assigned to train young
princes about warfare. He was also appointed as the chief priest of the
court at Hastinapura. In the meantime, his sister Kripi married Drona, the
teacher of the
Pandavas
and the
Kauravas.
During the
Kurukshetra
War, Kripa was one of the three surviving members in the Kaurava side.
He was later appointed as the teacher of Parikshit, Arjuna's grandson.
Why Kripa Never Became the Commander-in-Chief
During the War of Kurukshetra, Kripacharya, as he was later addressed, was
never made the Commander-in-Chief of the Kaurava army, even after the demise
of Bheeshma and Dronacharya. There are a few probable reasons for this, as
follows:
- Though all the great warriors including Bheeshma, Dronacharya and
Kripacharya were fighting on the side of the Kauravas, Duryodhana was
well aware of the affection all of them had for the Pandavas. He sensed
that he could not place complete trust in them at all times. Duryodhana
never really trusted anyone, except Karna. He knew that all the other
Maharathis believed that the Pandavas would eventually triumph, since
they were on the path of the Dharma.
- Duryodhana knew that Karna had no actual interest in the war. He
merely wanted to defeat the Pandavas at all costs; he especially wanted
to see the fall of Arjuna. Once Arjuna was defeated, the rest of the
Pandavas would succumb easily. Duryodhana wanted to see to it that he
scored an early victory over the Pandavas. That is why he wanted Karna
as the Commander-in-Chief, after Bhishma and Drona fell during the war.
- Duryodhana asked Karna to occupy the coveted position right after
Bheeshma's fall. However, the latter insisted that Drona lead the army
instead. Hence, he was the obvious choice to take over after Drona's
death.
- As a warrior, Karna was far superior to Kripacharya. Kripa was the
official Guru and trainer of the Kauravas, besides also being a direct
relative of Dronacharya. However, because Karna was much stronger and
more capable and also had made a solemn vow to kill the Pandavas, he was
the right choice to take over as General of the Kaurava army.
As a Chiranjivi
Kripacharya is one of the most remarkable characters in the Mahabharata. He
is considered to be a special entity, for a variety of reasons:
- He was not born from the human womb - his birth was ordained by the
divine. He came to earth with a mission and stayed on to fulfill the
same. His undying loyalty and adherence to the Dharma is what made him
such a luminous figure in the epic.
- Kripa taught the art of warfare to both the Pandavas and the Kauravas.
He was impartial at all times. He fought on the Kauravas' side, in spite
of knowing that they were adharmic. This is because he owed allegiance
to the Kauravas, who had offered him shelter, nurtured him and
encouraged him to become the powerful figure he now was.
- Kripa was a powerful Maharathi. He had the ability to effortlessly
destroy mighty armies. The Mahabharata states that, in valor, he is
comparable only to Karthikeya, the Son of Lord Shiva himself.
Due to his strict adherence to Dharma and righteousness,
Lord
Krishna conferred the blessing of being a Chiranjivi on him. Very few
personalities were fortunate enough to achieve this rare honor. Even the
Pandavas could not attain immortality, in spite of being extremely close to
Krishna.
Parashurama
Lord Parashurama is the sixth avatara of Sri Maha Vishnu. He is
alternatively referred to as Rama Jamadagnya and Rama Bhargava.
Parashurama
does not feature in early Vedic literature. His initial mention is found in
the Ramayana. He is also mentioned in the Mahabharata, but with several
other names.
Iconography
Parashurama is commonly depicted as a powerfully built man with matted
locks, with two hands; one carrying an axe. In the Agni Purana, however, he
is shown with four hands, carrying an axe, bow, arrow and sword. In the
Bhagavata Purana, his icon has four hands, carrying an axe, box, arrows and
a shield, like a warrior.
In Hindu temples, he is usually shown having two hands, one holding an axe
in his right hand. He is depicted either seated or standing. It is only in
the Basohli temple where he is represented in a war scene, inside a temple.
Legends
Some legends state that Parashurama was the fifth son of sage Jamadagni and
his wife Renuka. The pious couple led a simple life and lived in a small
hut. They had a celestial cow called Surabhi, who gave them all they
desired.
A king named Arjuna Kartavirya learnt about the cow and wanted to have it
for himself. He asked Jamadagni to give it to him. The sage, however,
refused to part with it. Enraged at being insulted thus, the king hatched an
evil plot. When Parashurama was away one day, he came and took the animal by
force. When the former came to know about this, he got very upset, took up
his axe and challenged the king to battle. In the ensuing fight, the king
was slain at the hands of Parashurama. After that, he continued to kill
everyone that ever dared to challenge him.
According to some versions, after his martial exploits, Parashurama returned
to his father's residence with the Surabhi cow. He told him about all the
battles that he had had to fight so far. Hearing about all this, sage
Jamadagni became angry. He reprimanded his son for killing a king, in spite
of being a Brahmin himself. He asked his son to wash off his sins by going
on a long pilgrimage. On his return from the pilgrimage, Parashurama was
told that his father was killed by warriors seeking revenge. He again picked
up his axe and killed several hundreds of warriors in retaliation.
Eventually, feeling disillusioned by it all, he renounced everything,
decided to live in a remote place and took up Yoga.
Parashurama is infamous for his extreme anger, violent deeds and then
repentance for having committed those deeds in rage.
In the Ramayana
Rama lifted, strung and broke the Shiva Dhanush during Sita's swayamvara,
thereby winning her hand in marriage. When Parashurama came to know of this,
he became angry. He had learnt archery from Lord Shiva himself and could not
imagine how a mere Kshatriya prince could have managed to accomplish such a
feat.
As Rama was heading back to Ayodhya with his father Dasharatha, new wife
Sita and the rest of the entourage, Parashurama confronted them and blocked
their way ahead. A battle ensued between him and Rama. The former fought
with his Parashu or axe, while Rama replied to each strike with his bow, the
Kodanda. As they continued to battle against each other, their eyes met.
They instantly realized that they but different incarnations of the same
Supreme Power, Maha
Vishnu.
Instantly, the Vishnu aspect of Parashurama merged itself with Rama. He
realized that his avatara had reached the end of its time in this mortal
world and that he had fulfilled his divine mission on earth. He asked Rama
to shoot a final arrow towards the horizon, saying that he would settle down
in the place where the arrow landed. He followed the arrow and then went
back to his hermitage in the Mahendra Mountain, where he spends his time in
deep meditation.
In the Mahabharata
Parashurama enjoys a pivotal position in the Mahabharata. Here, he is shown
as a sage, accomplished Brahmin warrior and a teacher of the martial arts.
However, the Mahabharata does not extol him as an avatara of Vishnu. That
occurs only in the
Puranas.
In chapter 3.33, he is the grandson of Satyavati and the son of princess
Renuka. In chapter 6 of the Devi Bhagavata Purana, he is born with an
intense aura emanating from him. This effulgence is so strong that it blinds
all warriors. They are instantly blinded and then start repenting for their
deeds. They promise to lead a dharmic life if their vision is restored.
Young Parashurama then gifts them the boon of sight.
Parashurama is usually depicted as the angry Brahmin wielding an ace,
killing a huge number of Kshatriya warriors, because they were abusing their
powers. In some versions, he even killed his own mother, because his father
ordered him to do so. According to this legend, Jamadagni told his son that
his mother was having lustful thoughts after seeing a young couple
frolicking in the water. Not one to defy his father's orders, Parashurama
did as he was told.
Pleased, Jamadagni told him to ask for a boon. Young Parashurama asked that
his mother's life be restored. His father readily agreed and brought her
back to life. However, the youngster was so affected by the needless
violence that he left to a remote place in order to repent for his terrible
sins.
In the Mahabharata, Parashurama serves as a mentor to Bheeshma, Drona and
Karna, teaching them the art of weaponry and also helping the main warriors
in both the Pandava and Kaurava camps, during the Great War of Kurukshetra.
Hindus in Kerala believe that he is the founder of the land and that he
brought it out of the sea and settled the Hindu community there.
Parashurama is the only
avatara
of Vishnu who never dies. He lives in a deep meditative state in the
Mahendra Mountain. He is also the only avatara who co-exists with the Rama
and Krishna avataras.
Parashurama Kshetra
The Indian state of Kerala and some of the areas nearby, including the
Malabar Coast and even parts of Konkan, are sometimes considered as
Parashurama Kshetra (area of Parashurama).
The ancient Saptakonkana is also referred to as Parashurama Kshetra. The
Seven Mukthi Kshetras, which are also known as Parashurama Srishti, include
Udupi, Kumbashi, Kukka Subramanya, Koteshwara, Shankaranarayana, Kolluru and
Gokarna.
Lesser-Known Facts about Parashurama
- He received his famous axe (Parashu) from Shiva himself, after
undertaking severe penance to please him. Shiva also taught him the
martial arts. The Lord asked him to liberate Mother Earth from felons,
demons and adharmic people.
- Once, Shiva, wanting to test his devotee's skills, challenged
Parashurama to engage him in warfare. Both fought tirelessly for
twenty-one days. While ducking to avoid being hit by Shiva's Trishula
(Trident), Parashurama accidentally struck the axe on the Lord's
forehead, thus creating a wound there. Shiva was pleased to see his
disciple's power and might.
- He is most knows for his merciless massacre of Kshatriyas, twenty-one
times.
- He actually fought back the advancing seas in order to save the lands
of Kerala and Konkan.
- After reclaiming the land of Konkan, Parashurama requested different
deities to settle in the newly created land. He also asked Shiva to give
him darshan every day, as long as he lived on this Earth. Further, he
also brought 60 "Vipras" to settle in the Konkan region.
- Parashurama is the Kula Guru (family Guru) of the Bharadwaja Gotra.
His father, Jamadagni, was a direct descendant of Lord
Brahma.
- Parashurama clipped the thousand arms of Kartavirya Arjuna (also
called Sahasrarjuna) with his axe and then killed him. He singlehandedly
resisted the latter's army by showering arrows on them. In appreciation
of this feat, Lord Indra presented his most beloved bow called Vijaya to
Parashurama.
- According to the Puranas, the mighty Brahmin warrior was once on his
way to the Himalayas to visit Shiva. Halfway through, his path was
blocked by Ganesha, the Son of Shiva and Parvati. Enraged, Parashurama
threw his axe at the Elephant-Headed Lord. Aware of the man's true
identity and knowing that the axe was gifted by his father, Ganesha
quietly allowed it to sever his left tusk.
- He once became irritated with Surya, the Sun God, as it had become too
hot. In anger, he shot numerous arrows into the sky, thus scaring Surya.
When he ran out of arrows, he asked his wife Dharani to go bring more.
Surya then focused his rays on her, making her faint and fall to the
ground. Surya then appeared before the warrior sage and presented him
with sandals and an umbrella.
- According to the Nath tradition, Parashurama was deeply disturbed
after carrying out all the killings. He visited Mount Gandhamadana to
seek Dattatreya for spiritual solace and guidance. The conversation
between them gave rise to the Tripura-rahasya, a treatise on Advaita
Vedanta.
- He and Sage Agastya, one of the Saptarishis, are believed to be the
founders of Kalaripayattu, the oldest martial art form in the world. He
also developed Vadakkan Kalari (or Northern Kalari), which places more
emphasis on using weapons.
- He traveled across central and north eastern India, before settling in
the Mahendra Mountains. Before he became a sanyasi, he distributed the
territories he had conquered among a clan of Brahmins, who were called
Bhumihar. They ruled for many centuries, forming dynasties such as the
Cheras, Pandyas, Mushika, Dravida, Karnata and Konkana.
- The Kalki Purana states that he will reemerge at the end of the
present Kaliyuga, as the martial and spiritual guru of Sri Kalki, the
tenth and final avatara of Sri Maha Vishnu. It is believed that he will
teach Kalki to perform a terrible penance to please Shiva, so that he
can receive the celestial weaponry required to bring about an end to
this present epoch.
- Parashurama, who is considered to be the foremost rishi in the
Kaliyuga, will also go on to become one of the Saptarishis in the 8th
Manavantara.