The Story of Daksha Yagna

  ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

  Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

the story of daksha yagna

Daksha organized a grand yagna but insulted Lord Shiva. Enraged, Sati sacrificed herself in the fire. Furious, Shiva sent Veerabhadra, who destroyed the yagna and beheaded Daksha. The gods trembled in fear. Finally, Lord Vishnu intervened, and Shiva revived Daksha, but with a goat’s head.

Daksha Yagna

In the conversation between Shukadeva and King Parikshit, Suta continued narrating the discourse between Maitreya and Vidura to the sages, including Shaunaka.

Sati’s Sacrifice

Maitreya told Vidura, “I wish to tell you the stories of Prahlada and Dhruva. Which one would you like to hear first?”

Vidura replied, “O Sage Maitreya, I find all these stories equally captivating, but I wish to hear the story of Sati first. There is no difference between Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva). Yet, because Daksha disrespected Lord Shiva, he faced severe consequences. Sati’s self-immolation is an extraordinary tale. Kindly narrate it to me first.”

Recognizing Vidura’s deep knowledge and understanding of the unity between Vishnu and Shiva, Maitreya began narrating the lineage of Devahuti’s daughters. He spoke about Anasuya, the daughter of Devahuti and the wife of Sage Atri. Through Atri’s severe penance, three divine sons were born—Dattatreya (a partial incarnation of Vishnu), Chandra (a partial incarnation of Brahma), and Durvasa (a partial incarnation of Rudra).

Then, Maitreya proceeded with the story of Daksha and Sati.

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Daksha’s Grand Yajna

Once, Daksha organized a grand yagna (sacrificial ritual). Many sages, divine beings, and celestial entities attended the ceremony. The offerings made in the yajna were consumed in subtle form by the deities of the Swarga Loka (heavenly realm) and Bhuvar Loka (mid-realm). The rulers of the earthly realm were also present.

Prominent celestial beings such as Gandharvas, Kinnaras, Maruts, Adityas, Rudras, Vasus, and the Lokapalas (guardians of the directions) had assembled. Even Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva were given places of honor in the yagna.

When Daksha entered the grand assembly, everyone stood up in respect. The gods, Maruts, and Vasus all greeted him with honor. However, Brahma remained seated, and so did Shiva.

Daksha felt insulted. His ego was hurt. He thought, Shiva has disrespected me. Enraged, he addressed the assembly:

“O Devas! You have all attended my grand yajna and honored me as its organizer. This is a joyous occasion. By maintaining etiquette, harmony is ensured in such gatherings. Today, my son-in-law, Shiva, is also present. I gave my beloved daughter Sati to him upon Brahma’s suggestion, who praised Shiva’s greatness before me.

Yet, even though I am his elder, Shiva did not rise to greet me. Isn’t it natural for a younger one to show respect to an elder? But he neither stood up nor even acknowledged my presence with words! Such ignorance of etiquette! I now feel deceived by Brahma’s words.”

Daksha’s frustration turned into resentment. Brahma, upon hearing Daksha’s accusations, felt embarrassed but remained silent.

Meanwhile, Shiva remained completely still, unaffected by Daksha’s harsh words. Seeing Shiva’s composed and indifferent demeanor, Daksha’s anger intensified. In a final declaration, he said,

“From this moment onward, Shiva will not receive any share of the offerings from yagnas!”

Despite this proclamation, Shiva remained unmoved. His silence astonished the entire assembly.

Nandi Curse and Sage Bhrigu’s Counter Curse

Among Shiva’s attendants was Nandi, who could no longer tolerate Daksha’s insults. He declared a curse:

“Because of Daksha’s arrogance, he will lose all spiritual wisdom. He will be reborn with the face of a goat! Those who supported him in this insult will be deprived of true knowledge and will wander as beggars.”

Hearing this, Sage Bhrigu, a supporter of Daksha, retaliated with his own curse:

“Those who follow Shiva will be impure. They will abandon the Vedic path, smear ashes on their bodies, wear bones and rags, and be considered heretics.”

Despite these exchanges, Shiva remained silent and left the assembly with his followers, vowing never to return to Daksha’s gatherings.

Satis Anguish

Meanwhile, Daksha’s yagna continued for a thousand years. When Sati learned about the grand event, she felt a longing to visit her parental home. She thought, All my sisters must have gathered there. My mother and father would be delighted to see me. Should I go?

She hesitantly approached Shiva, expressing her desire to attend. However, Shiva, recalling the past insult, advised against it.

“My dear, they did not even invite us,” Shiva explained. “I do not wish for you to be insulted there.”

But Sati insisted, “O Lord, how can I not visit my birthplace? Every woman naturally desires to meet her parents. Even those who have no relation to our family are attending. I should go too.”

Shiva gently cautioned her, “Beloved, you may consider them your family, but do they see us as their own? If someone disrespects a guest or a relative, are they truly family? A warrior may endure wounds on the battlefield, but harsh words from loved ones are unbearable. Your father considers me a beggar, a mere ascetic. He will not honor you as you expect.”

Despite Shiva’s warnings, Sati was determined. Against his wishes, she left for the yajna, accompanied by Nandi and Shiva’s attendants.

Sati’s Sacrifice

Upon reaching the yagna, Sati was greeted warmly by her mother and sisters. They adorned her with ornaments and fine clothing, but she refused all gifts, remembering the past insult to her husband.

Then, she noticed that Shiva had been deliberately excluded from the offerings. Daksha, seeing Sati, once again began criticizing Shiva. Unable to bear the insult to her husband, Sati spoke in anger:

“Father! Why do you slander my husband? He is the Supreme Being, beyond enmity and hatred. Only ignorant ones focus on faults, while the wise see only virtues. Shiva is the very soul of the universe. By insulting him, you are only destroying your own spiritual merit.

What is the use of this body if I must hear my husband’s insult? I renounce it right here and now.”

Filled with divine energy, Sati sat in deep meditation, invoked her inner fire, and self-immolated on the spot.

The entire assembly was shocked. The sky trembled, the earth shook, and cries of distress filled the air. The deities condemned Daksha’s arrogance, realizing that disaster was inevitable.

Shiva’s Wrath and the Destruction of the Yajna

When Narada informed Shiva about Sati’s self-sacrifice, Shiva’s rage erupted. He plucked a lock of his hair, struck it on the ground, and from it emerged Virabhadra, a fierce warrior with three eyes and immense power.

Virabhadra

Shiva commanded, “Go with my attendants. Destroy Daksha’s yajna. Leave nothing intact!”

Virabhadra and Shiva’s army stormed the yagna. They defeated the gods, shattered the sacrificial structures, and wreaked havoc.

Finally, they captured Daksha and severed his head, throwing it into the sacrificial fire. The entire yagna site was left in ruins.

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Aftermath

The gods, terrified, sought refuge in Brahma. Realizing their mistake in excluding Shiva, they begged for forgiveness.

Brahma, acknowledging Shiva’s supreme status, advised them to seek his mercy. Only by appeasing Shiva could balance be restored.

This marked the beginning of reconciliation, but the scars of the incident remained, teaching a profound lesson on the consequences of ego, disrespect, and divine justice.

This is the tale of Daksha’s yagna a story of arrogance, devotion, sacrifice, and the ultimate truth that Shiva, the eternal ascetic, remains beyond worldly pride and insult.

Best Story On Karma

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

Rishi Kardam and Devahuti: A Divine Tale of Devotion, Wisdom, and Destiny

The story of Kardama is a profound tale from ancient scriptures that intertwines devotion, wisdom, and destiny.

 It narrates how Sage Kardama, through intense penance, earned the blessings of Lord Vishnu and was destined to marry Devahuti, the daughter of King Manu.

 Their union was not just a worldly relationship but a divine plan leading to the birth of Lord Kapila, the great sage who revealed the path of Sankhya philosophy.

 This captivating tale unveils deep spiritual truths, the essence of karma, and the journey of the soul toward liberation. Dive into this timeless story and uncover its hidden wisdom

Best Story On Karma

Maitreya said, "Once, Sanatkumar was traveling to Lord Vishnu's abode. His appearance was divine and transcendent. He had no obstacles on his way. When he arrived in Vishnu's realm, he was on his way to meet Vishnu.

Karma cycle

With a simple, ascetic appearance, he, along with the other three, approached the gates of Vishnu's Vaikuntha. Jai and Vijay, the gatekeepers of Vishnu's realm, stopped them at the gates. Were they unaware of the child's greatness?

Sanat Kumar felt disrespected. He cursed Jai and Vijay, saying, "Jai! Vijay! You have not attained the balance of mind and equanimity. You are not worthy to stay here. Go! I curse you to be born in a race of demons, where you will experience blindness."

The radiance on Jai and Vijay’s faces vanished. They realized their mistake. They sought forgiveness from Sanatkumar. At that moment, Lord Vishnu, who was fully detached, appeared before Sanatkumar. Vishnu humbly apologized to Sanatkumar, and seeing his humility, Sanatkumar and the other three Kumaras became calm.

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Vishnu said to Jai and Vijay, "Gatekeepers! I believe you have been justly judged. Previously, you stopped Lakshmi herself! Now, you will be born into a demon's family. But we will find a way out of this. When I take incarnations to destroy the wicked, you will assist by gathering all the evil of the world. By your anger, you will meditate upon me, and by concentrating your mind upon me, you will attain me."

Jai and Vijay were born as the sons of Diti, as Hiranyaksha and Hiranyakashipu. Their birth caused ominous signs across the world. 

The two performed intense penance. Pleased by their devotion, Brahma granted them a boon, making them arrogant. Hiranyaksha challenged every god, including Varuna. 

He was so powerful that even Varuna avoided direct confrontation with him. Varuna told him, "You need an equally powerful opponent. That opponent is Vishnu."

Hiranyaksha searched for Vishnu. He found Vishnu in the form of a boar, lifting the Earth from the ocean. Hiranyaksha attacked Vishnu, but the boar lifted the Earth properly before engaging in battle. Vishnu killed Hiranyaksha with his mace and discus.

"Jai" was the same as Hiranyaksha. Later, he was born as Hiranyakashipu. I'll tell you about his story soon," said Maitreya.

Vidura interrupted, "I have a question. What children did Manu have? Wasn't his daughter named Devahuti, who married Kardama Rishi? Please tell me about Kardama."

Avatar of varaha

Maitreya responded, "I have already told you about Manu and Shatarupa being created by Brahma to create progeny. Now, I will tell you about Kardama."

Manu had two sons, Priyavrata and Uttanapada, and three daughters: Akriti, Devahuti, and Prasuti. Uttanapada had two wives: Suruchi and Suniti. Suruchi's son was Uttama, and Suniti's son was Dhruva."

Vidura asked, "So, Devahuti had two brothers and two sisters? This is the lineage of Svayambhu Manu, right? Who was Kardama, and why are their names significant?"

Maitreya explained, "Kardama was a sage born from Brahma’s shadow. After performing long penance, he pleased Lord Vishnu, who promised him the daughter of Manu, Devahuti, as his wife. Vishnu also said, 'I will incarnate as the son of Devahuti to teach the knowledge of the Self.'"

Vidura, this secret that you are curious about is indeed fascinating. Let me explain the meaning of the names in terms of spiritual knowledge," said Maitreya.

"Svayam means Vishnu, Svayambhu means Brahma, or pure existence. From him, Manu was born. Manu represents the mind. 

His wife, Shatarupa, symbolizes Shakti in her many forms. Priyavrata means the inclination to do whatever one desires. 

Uttanapada represents an evolved stage of the mind. Suniti and Suruchi represent good conduct and refined tastes, respectively. 

Their son, Uttama, represents a person who attains excellence. Suniti’s son, Dhruva, represents constancy in one’s actions. These names reflect the process of creation and evolution of the mind."

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Vidura was amazed by the explanation and began to understand the deeper meaning behind the names. 

Maitreya continued, "The three powers of the mind are Akriti (willpower), Prasuti (the power to create new resolutions), and Devahuti (the power to meditate on the divine). 

Kardama symbolizes the primordial substance. When the mind connects with this basic substance, the elements of nature begin to manifest.

 Kardama's son, Kapila, taught the Sankhya philosophy, which is the knowledge of the Self."

Vidura was astounded by the metaphors used, and Maitreya went on, "Let's move on to the story of Devahuti and Kardama."

Manu came to Kardama with his daughter, Devahuti. Kardama welcomed them warmly. Manu told Devahuti to pay her respects to Kardama. He said, "O sage, you are a protector of the Vedas and Dharma. 

You are a great yogi, detached from worldly affairs, and constantly meditating on Vishnu. Devahuti has chosen you as her husband. Please accept her and start a family."

Kardama agreed and placed one condition: "I will only stay with her until I have a son." Manu, detached as he was, accepted this condition.

 Kardama and Devahuti were married. Devahuti served Kardama for many years, performing her duties with great dedication.

After many years, Kardama, pleased with her service, said, "Devahuti, I am pleased with your devotion. 

Whatever I have gained through my penance is now yours as well. What is your wish? I will fulfill it."

Devahuti expressed a desire to see the world and travel. Kardama, using his yogic powers, created a beautiful flying chariot with all kinds of comforts. 

He granted her divine vision and showed her the universe, including rivers, mountains, cities, seas, and valleys. 

Devahuti saw the entire earth and felt immense joy. After their journey, they returned to Bindu Lake, where Kardama explained that the world she had seen was an illusion. 

She was advised to meditate on Lord Vishnu, who alone can free one from the bondage of the material world.

Devahuti eventually had nine daughters, but Kardama continued his vow of having a son. One by one, Devahuti’s daughters were married off. 

Eventually, after much meditation, Vishnu appeared before Kardama and told him that he would incarnate as Kapila, the son of Devahuti, to teach the knowledge of the Self.

Kapila was born, radiant and serene, a young boy of immense wisdom. Devahuti, now detached from worldly desires, sought spiritual knowledge from her son. Kapila explained to her the nature of the soul, the material world, and the path of devotion.

 He explained the various forms of devotion, how one should live a righteous life, and the importance of meditation and detachment from material desires.

When Devahuti asked about the different types of devotion, Kapila explained the qualities of Tamasic, Rajasic, and Sattvic devotion.

 He described how true devotion is without any selfish desires, and how one should focus on the Lord with pure love and surrender."

This is the essence of the story of Kardama, Devahuti, and their son Kapila.

Maitreya Vidura Dialogue Third Canto First Lesson

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

Vidura and Maitreya The Quest for Self Knowledge

The story narrates how Vidura began his journey for self-knowledge through the grief and contemplation in his life. After receiving the teachings of Lord Krishna, he sought the guidance of the great wisdom offered by Sage Maitreya. In this dialogue, profound discussions on the principles of life, dharma, and the mysteries of Brahman take place. Vidura's doubts, the questions of his life, and the answers he receives form the core of this tale.

Bhagwan Vishnu Das Avatar

Maitreya Vidura Dialogue Third Canto First Lesson 

Suta began narrating further.

Many sages, monks, and aspirants, including Shaunaka, had gathered to listen to the story. Messengers had been dispatched to distant hermitages at night, and more listeners continued to arrive for the narration.

"Revered sages," Suta addressed the gathering with a salutation before beginning the tale, "Listen to the dialogue between Shuka and Parikshit.

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"Now, I will narrate the meeting of Vidura and Uddhava, followed by the meeting of Vidura and Sage Maitreya. Their dialogue is beneficial and enlightening."

On the second day, Shuka said to Parikshit, "Vidura had advised Dhritarashtra to give the Pandavas their rightful share of the kingdom to prevent the destruction of the lineage. However, his advice was not heeded by the Kauravas. Duryodhana, in particular, insulted him and ordered him to leave the kingdom."

Vidura felt deeply hurt and left Hastinapur.

Wandering alone, he visited many holy places, observed the state of the world, and reflected on the increasing unrighteousness around him, which filled him with despair.

Months passed, and the great war between the Kauravas and Pandavas occurred, leading to immense destruction.

Vidura heard about these events indirectly during his travels.

During one such journey, he encountered Uddhava, a devoted disciple of Lord Krishna, by the banks of the Yamuna River. Seeing Uddhava filled Vidura with a mix of sorrow and joy. Uddhava, with his serene demeanor and devotion to Krishna, reminded Vidura of the Lord Himself.

Eager to know everything, Vidura inquired about the Pandavas, the Yadavas, and, most importantly, Krishna.

Uddhava, overwhelmed by Krishna's absence, wept as memories of the Lord flooded his mind.

He recounted Krishna's exploits from childhood, including the slaying of demons in Gokul, his fondness for everyone, his efforts for the Pandavas, and his defeat of wicked forces. He also spoke of the eventual downfall of the Yadava clan and the great Kurukshetra war. As Uddhava narrated these events, he was both invigorated and grieved, especially while describing Krishna's departure to his eternal abode.

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Uddhava said, "Before departing, Krishna instructed me, 'Uddhava, go to Badarikashrama and spread my teachings to the world.'"

"I lingered at Prabhasa, near Krishna, knowing that his departure was imminent. I could not bring myself to leave him."

Krishna had told Uddhava, "Though you wish to stay with me, what will you do after the Yadavas and I are gone? Stay behind to share my knowledge with the world. Go to Badarikashrama and remain there."

After controlling his emotions, Uddhava shared Krishna’s message with Vidura: "Lord Krishna has directed that Sage Maitreya will provide you with self-realization. You should go to him."

Vidura, deeply moved, bid farewell to Uddhava and proceeded to meet Sage Maitreya at Haridwar.

Shuka, narrating to Parikshit, mentioned that Vidura approached Sage Maitreya with reverence and humility. Maitreya, who resided in a serene hermitage, welcomed Vidura warmly, knowing his purpose for visiting.

Vidura respectfully asked, "O Sage, people strive endlessly for happiness, but their sorrows do not diminish, nor do they find lasting joy. What is the cause of this suffering? How can one achieve true peace and happiness? What is the ultimate means to liberation? Please enlighten me."

Maitreya replied, "Before Lord Krishna departed to his divine abode, he revealed that you, Vidura, are none other than Yama Dharma incarnate. Your journey for self-realization in this life is divinely ordained. I will now share the knowledge imparted by Krishna, which will guide you to liberation."

Vidura listened intently as Maitreya explained the creation of the universe and the eternal truths about the soul, the Supreme Being, and liberation. He described how the Supreme, though formless and beyond attributes, manifests through divine play to guide the world.

Maitreya also elaborated on the process of creation, the emergence of Brahma from Vishnu's navel, and Brahma’s subsequent creation of the universe. He narrated the story of Vishnu incarnating as Varaha (the boar) to rescue the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha.

The dialogue between Vidura and Maitreya continued, filled with profound teachings about the nature of reality, devotion, and liberation. Vidura, overwhelmed with gratitude, absorbed every word with utmost reverence.

Shukadev Narrates The Bhagavata English

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

Shukadev Narrates The Bhagavata English

Shaunak and all the sages were eager to hear about the conversation between King Parikshit and Shukadev. Suta began narrating, “I have told you how Shukadev arrived and relieved the king of his worries . Now, listen further.”Shukadev Narrates The Bhagavata English

shukadev-narrates-bhagavata

Parikshit welcomed Shukadev and offered him a seat of honor. Everyone bowed to him with respect.

With folded hands, the king humbly said, “O Bhagavan, will you please fulfill my deep curiosity? What should a person standing at the threshold of death do? Which righteous duties should they follow? What is the essence of pure action? In this short time, what should one chant, hear, meditate upon, and remember?”

Though Shukadev was detached from worldly life, this was a subject dear to his heart. He had much to say, but in just two sentences, he revealed two supreme truths.

He said, “O King, in this world, whatever you perceive as ‘mine’ or ‘my own’ is transient and false. It is all an illusion.

“In this impermanent world, anyone seeking eternal refuge should meditate constantly on the feet of Shri Krishna. This is the only way.

“Truth is singular. While I hold devotion to the formless (nirguna), I find joy in Krishna's stories.

“To ensure Krishna remains in memory at the end of life, one must dedicate their life to Krishna, live for Him, and seek knowledge of Him. Even after liberation, Krishna’s remembrance, stories, and devotion persist. All knowledge without Hari is ignorance.

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“At the moment of death, do not fear. The syllable ‘Om’ is the essence of the self. Focus the mind solely on chanting ‘Om.’

“Control the senses and the mind. Practice breath control (pranayama). Conquer desires and attachments. Fix the mind on the supreme sound of Om, which pervades the entire universe.

“The Earth is Om. Water is Om. Air, fire, and space are Om. The entire cosmos is Om, the universal form of Krishna. The seven lower worlds are beneath His feet, and the seven heavens are above His head. Various deities reside in different parts of His cosmic body. This whole universe is His form, manifesting as Om.

“At the time of death, meditate on this. I repeat, O King, a person on their deathbed must abandon all other thoughts and focus solely on Hari.”

Parikshit asked, “Please explain how to meditate on Hari.”

Shukadev replied, “First, renunciation is necessary. One cannot meditate on Hari while also being attached to material pleasures.

“Many people visualize Shri Vishnu or Krishna in their hearts as a four-armed deity holding a conch, discus, mace, and lotus, clad in yellow garments. Begin with this meditation. The Lord of the universe is both formless (nirguna) and with form (saguna). Until your mind becomes focused on this image in the heart, practice constantly.

“Parikshit, it is not easy to concentrate the mind and meditate on Hari. Without reducing attachments to worldly objects, meditation is challenging. Gradually, love for Shri Hari arises in the heart, and the emotions become purified.

“O Parikshit, there is no better means to transcend mortal existence than devotion (bhakti yoga).

“Control the senses, calm the mind, and focus the intellect on Hari. Merge the intellect into the self, and the self into the Supreme.

“Transcend the three gunas (qualities of nature) and remain in the company of saints. From them, you gain rare knowledge, purity of heart, and inner bliss. This reduces external attachments and leads to devotion. There is no better path to liberation than this eternal way.”

Parikshit listened intently. Since Krishna had been imprinted in his mind even from his time in the womb, his devotion grew stronger. As Shukadev explained the path of devotion in detail, Parikshit’s heart overflowed with love and yearning. He renounced all attachments and directed his mind toward the universal Lord.

He then asked, “How does creation, sustenance, and dissolution occur? How does the Lord carry out these activities?”

Shukadev replied, “The same Supreme Lord performs creation as Brahma, sustenance as Vishnu, and dissolution as Rudra. He resides in all beings as their inner self. He is beyond the intellect. Through singing His praises, remembering Him, worshipping Him, and listening to His stories, the impurities, distractions, and ignorance in the mind are destroyed.

“Using the saguna form of the Lord as a foundation, one can attain the supreme state through discernment. His glory is such that one realizes that surrendering to Him is the only path. The Lord appears to each devotee in the form they seek Him.”

Parikshit asked many more questions, and Shukadev explained the mysteries of creation, the soul, the three gunas, and liberation in depth.

On the banks of the Ganga, Parikshit, along with numerous sages, listened to Shukadev’s description of the universal form with rapt attention.

The Ganga’s waters seemed to flow with a renewed vigor, chanting, “Narayana! Narayana!” The setting sun painted the river in golden hues, while the sages prepared for their evening rituals.

Shukadev, the crown jewel of renunciates, remained immersed in meditation on the self. Meanwhile, a seed of eternal bliss sprouted in Parikshit’s heart.

In the fleeting moments of this world, the feet of Hari are the eternal Refuge .