Indian mythology is often underrated by the younger generations due to the lack of exposure and knowledge. Growing up, I was super fascinated by the captivating stories that were not only enticing but also morally enriching. As an adult trying to juggle life, I have realized that these stories and the lessons that come from them are relevant even to the current generation.
On that note, we all know about Lord Vishnu and his ten avatars. In this blog, I have tried to capture some introspective points from the avatars from the POV of the avatar itself. Let’s begin!
1. Matsya (the fish)
Story
During the end of Satya Yuga, when the prophecy about destruction approached, Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of a tiny fish to Manu, a virtuous king. Long story short, when Manu recognized the fish as Lord Vishnu, he appeared in his original form and instructed Manu to construct a huge ark. He asked him to gather his family, Saptarishis (Seven Sages), and species of each plant and animal. During the flood, Lord Vishnu took his giant Matsya (Fish) form and protected this ark, transferring them to cultivate and nurture the next Yuga.
Introspection
During the challenging times of destruction, it is vital to truthfully uphold the factor of righteousness. With changing times and generations, it is essential to transfer the knowledge and wisdom from one generation to another so that the values that you have learned growing up continue to future generations.
2. Kurma (the Tortoise)
Story
During the Samudra Manthan (Churning the Ocean of Milk), both Devas and Asuras stood churning the ocean in the quest for Amrutha (The Elixir of Immortality). As the churning began, Mount Mandara, the churning rod, began to sink. To protect the mountain, Lord Vishnu took the avatar of Kurma (Tortoise) and placed the mountain on his sturdy back to provide a strong foundation.
Introspection
All the achievements of your life stay consistent only when your foundation is sturdy and firm. These foundations can be in the form of health, knowledge, values, etc. Being true to your own soul at every step of life that you climb ensures that you stay grounded while progressing to a new level.
3. Varaha (the boar)
Story
Once upon a time, there was a cruel demon named Hiranyaksha who, with his boons, became invincible and conquered all three worlds. His greed had no bounds, and as an act of aggression, he captured Earth and descended to the bottom of the ocean. Fearing him, all the Devas went to Lord Vishnu and requested his intervention. He took the avatar of Varaha (Boar), fought Hiranyaksha, rescued Mother Earth, and placed her back in her orbit.
Introspection
Your determination in achieving success defines how far you will travel to make your dreams come true. The twist here is that the determination must be in the right direction and should not cause any harm to others. Instead, it should inspire others to tackle the turmoil of life in a righteous and strong way.
4. Narasimha (the Man-Lion)
Story
Hiranyakashyapa, the brother of Hiranyaksha, had gained a boon from Lord Bramha that he cannot be killed by a man, woman, or beast. He must not be killed during daylight or night, in land or air, inside or outside his palace, nor by any weapon. Filled with new powers, he decided to instigate Lord Vishnu through his own son, Prahalada, by questioning Lord Vishnu’s existence. In one of the instances, Lord Vishnu appears in his ruthless Narasimha (Man-Lion) avatar. He, who is neither a man, woman, nor a beast, appears during dusk, drags Hiranyakashyapa, keeps him on his lap (neither land nor air), sits on the threshold of the palace, and tears him apart using his claws (no weapon). Thus, he puts an end to the cruel ruling of Hiranyakashyapa.
Introspection
Challenging times are a part of life. We can define our growth by the way we manage these situations without losing our temper. Sometimes, certain challenges expect us to tackle them creatively, like how Lord Vishnu had to find different ways to kill Hiranyakashyapa without disrespecting the boon that he had received. The next time we face such a challenge, this story will remind us that there can be creative ways of problem solving.
5. Vamana (the Dwarf)
Story
There lived a king, Bali, grandson of Prahalada, who had gained control over all three worlds. Naturally, the Devas were banished from their abode, so they went to Lord Vishnu for help. This time, he took the avatar of Vamana (Dwarf) and approached Bali during the great sacrifice. Lord Vishnu took the right opportunity and asked King Bali for a boon: three pieces of land measured by his small steps. Once Bali agreed, Vamana grew into his cosmic Trivikrama form that covered the entire universe. With the first step, he covered Earth; with the second step, he covered Heaven. Having nothing else to offer as the third step, King Bali offered his own head. Taking the chance, Lord Vishnu pushed him to the Patala (Netherworld) and made him the ultimate king of Patala.
Introspection
In this world of growing violence and impatience, the biggest virtues of humankind are patience and peace. When you are in a state of serenity, traveling the path of life becomes a tad bit easier. One does not always need a sense of hustle to prove one’s worth. They can do so while deep breathing and enjoying little moments in life too.
This is the end of Part 1. Stay tuned for Part 2!
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