Sri Garga Samhita: Canto 7 Canto Seven: Visvajit-Khanda Chapter one Marutta's story
O Lord Vasudeva, I offer my deepest obeisances before You, expanding to Pradyumna, Aniruddha and Sankarshana. With the cream of transcendental knowledge You remove the darkness of ignorance. Sri Garga Muni said, “I have described the pastimes of the Lord Krishna, listening to which rewards a person with goals of life - religion, wealth, fulfillment of desires and liberation. Oh Shaunaka, what else can I tell you?" Saunaka Rsi said: “Oh sage, please tell me about what else did King Bahulashva ask Narada." Sri Garga Muni replied, “King Bahulashva was surprised why Krishna elevated Ugrasena to the throne of the Yadu dynasty, and asked Narada about it. Sri Bahulashva said: “Who was King Marutta, and by what merits did he become Ugrasena, the king of the Yadavas? Please tell me about it." Sri Narada replied, “O king, there was a great emperor in the dynasty of the sun god named Marutta. He made many sacrifices in order to conquer the whole universe. He appointed Samvarta as a priest of sacrifice, and then built a sacrificial arena, covering a distance of forty miles. The demigods, headed by Brahma and Shiva, and great rishis, arrived at the place of this sacrifice. There were gathered five hundred sacrificial priests and ten millions of brahmanas invited for this significant event. After huge amount of ghee was poured into the sacrificial fire, Agni, the fire god, felt indigestion. All demigods also suffered from digestive upset from absorption a huge amount of soma-rasa. At the end of the sacrifice, Samvarta was awarded the right to reign in Jambudwipa, and the helping priests received an infinite number of gifts. All brahmanas presented with gold, horses and elephants, and then fed their fill of food from golden trays. When the brahmanas are gone, they left behind heaps of gold in this valley of the Himalayas, which they could not carry home. These piles of gold seemed like another mountain in the valley of the Himalayas. No one could make the same sacrifice that the King Marutta performed, and no one in the future will be able to do this. At the end of the sacrifice, Lord Vishnu appeared from the sacrificial fire of King Marutta. In a voice reminiscent thunderclaps, the Lord said, “You have satisfied Me with your humility. Oh wise king, you may ask Me for any blessing." xKing Marutta stood before the Lord with folded hands and said, “O Purushottama, I do not want any blessings other than the blessing of serving Your lotus footsteps. To ask you for something is to be like to the thirsty fool who, having come ashore of Ganges, digs a well. My only desire is that your lotus feet never left my heart. Eventually, any other gifts and gains are only the result of meditation on Your lotus feet." Lord Vishnu replied, “O king, you are endowed with true wisdom, because you remain unshakable, even having the opportunity to receive My blessings. Still I want so that you ask for something, for without giving blessings To my devotees, I do not feel happy". King Marutta said: “If You insist that I asked for a blessing, then my wish is this: let the abode of Vaikuntha will manifest on this earth. I would like to live there together with Your companions under Your protection." Lord said, “After twenty-eight yugas, you will be born on Earth, and your wish will come true. After communication with Me there you will cross the ocean of material existence, as a person steps over a puddle from a trace of the calf's hoof ." O king, having said these words, the Lord suddenly disappeared, and the King Marutta was born at the predicted time as Ugrasena, and then Lord Krishna helped him to perform a rajasuya sacrifice. Anyone who listens carefully to this story, easily attain transcendental knowledge, detachment from material world and devotion to the Lord."
Chapter two Pradyumna's Blessing for Victory
King Bahulashva asked, “O Narada, how the Lord Krishna help King Ugrasena to carry out the rajasuya-yagya?" Sri Narada replied, “Once in the Sudharma assembly hall Ugrasena hearing from me about the glories of the rajasuya-yajna, asked Sri Krishna to help him perform yajna. Sri Krishna said, “O King of the Yadavas, this is a wonderful idea. Through the rajasuya-yajna, your fame will spread throughout to all worlds. Invite all the Yadavas and let us begin necessary preparations”. After that, King Ugrasena gathered all his subordinate rulers in the Sudharma assembly hall and announced that there is a betel nut on a platter, and if any of the kings confident that he can defeat all the rulers of Jambudvipa, he can take this betel nut. However, assembled kings, hearing the words of Ugrasena, silently stayed in their places. Then Pradyumna, the son of Rukmini, got up and took the betel nut, expressed respect to the King Ugrasena and said: “I will overcome all of the kings of Jambudvipa and collect tribute from them for rajasuya yajna. After that I will return home. If i don't come back victorious, then the sin of killing brahmana will fall on me, who has an intimate relationship with a fallen woman, and the sin of killing the embryo in the womb." Narada Muni continued, “Hearing these words, all the Yadavas was glorified Pradyumna with jubilant exclamations. King Ugrasena then called a priest, Garga Muni, for guidance, while Pradyumna takes a ritual bath. After King Ugrasena applied tilaka to Pradyumna's forehead, and the Yadavas offered him gifts and honored him. Then Ugrasena bestowed the sword to Pradyumna, and Balarama gave protective kavacha. Sri Krishna gave His son the Sharnga bow and two quivers with endless arrows. Elder Shurasena bestowed divine jewelry and a crown to Pradyumna. Vasudeva gave him a shield decorated with hundreds of moons, and Uddhava gave him a divine lotus garland. Akrura gave Pradyumna a Dakshinavarta conch shell, which foreshadowed victory, and Garga Muni bestowed Krishnakavacha. At this time, Indra and other lokapalas, the lords of the planets, arrived there led by Brahma, Shiva and the great sages. Shiva gave Pradyumna a trident, which shone like a fiery flame, and Brahma gave him a turban, decorated with rubies. Varuna gave Pradyumna a lasso, Yamaraj - kala-danda, Surya - a giant club, Kuvera - a garland of gems, Chandra - precious stone chandrakanta, Agni - spear, goddess of the Earth - divine sandals, and Indra - a precious chariot, created by Visvakarma and harnessed by a thousand horses. During this ceremony, musical instruments and xshells sounded, and Vedic hymns were quoted by the brahmanas. And the inhabitants of heaven showered Pradyumna with flower rain."
Chapters 3-5 The victorious march of the Yadava army and the rajasuya-yajna of King Ugrasena
Narada Muni said, “O King of Mithila, Pradyumna, bowing to Krishna, Balarama, Ugrasena and sage Garga, got on the chariot and left the city. He was followed by Uddhava and many warriors of Yadavas, Bhojas, Andhakas, Dasharhas and Madhu dynasty. Their innumerable army consisted of foot soldiers, cavalry, chariot and elephant warriors. Some the elephants were from the Airavata clan with four or three tusks. Looking around this majestic army, even the demigods were surprised. King Ugrasena wished Pradyumna a successful return with victory over all the kings of the world. Then he along with Krishna and Balarama, seeing Pradyumna, returned to the city." Sri Bahulashva said: “O best of sages, what countries visited Pradyumna with his countless army? Just by hearing about the deeds of the great devotees who have get the mercy of Lord Krishna, a person's heart becomes crystal clear." Narada Muni said, “After boarding Indra's chariot, Pradyumna first went to the country of Kaccha to conquer this country. Kacchi's king's name was Shubhra. On Pradyumna's arrival king hunted in the forest. Having received the news, he immediately returned to his capital. With many decorated elephants and horses, Shubhra walked towards Pradyumna and bowing before him offered him a tribute. Then Pradyumna went to the kingdom of Kalinga. King of Kalinga went to battle with the Yadavs along with his huge army. When Aniruddha caused great damage to his army, the king of Kalinga, sitting on an elephant, rushed into battle and attacked Aniruddha, knocking him to the ground with the blow of his club. At that time Gada, the younger brother of Balarama, grabbed his club and hit the huge elephant of the king of Kalinga. When the king of Kalinga fell from elephant, he took a club in his hands and began to fight with Gada. Striking each other, their clubs, creating clouds of sparks, soon crashed, and they started punching each other. Then Gada overturned the king of Kalinga and dragged him along the ground, as Garuda drags a huge snake. In the end badly wounded king of Kalinga approached Pradyumna and, taking his refuge, offered him countless priceless gifts. The next country to which Pradyumna went with the army of the Yadavas, was the country of the king of Gaia. Uddhava went to the royal court and explained to the king that Ugrasena wanted to perform rajasuya yajna, and for this purpose Pradyumna came to receive tribute. Intoxicated with pride and power, king of Gaia replied to Uddhava, “I will never offer a tribute to the Yadavas, who have recently gained power." Uddhava returned to Pradyumna and conveyed to him the words of the king. And then a fierce battle ensued between the Yadavs and by the army of the kingx of Gaia. When the army of the king of Gaia ran from the brutal onslaught of the Yadavas, king of Gaia personally entered the battle. Soon Diptiman defeated him in battle and, unconscious, the king was taken to Pradyumna.. Coming to consciousness, the king glorified Pradyumna and happily offered a rich tribute to him. Then Pradyumna and his army reached the Avantipur kingdom ruled by King Jayasena. Jayasena voluntarily paid tribute to Pradyumna. Then Pradyumna met with Vinda and Anuvinda, and departed in the direction of Mahishmati to the banks of the Narmada River. King of Mahishmati named Indranila sent messenger to Pradyumna. The messenger said, “Duryodhana crowned Indranila here and therefore he cannot offer a tribute to anyone but him." Then Pradyumna replied to the messenger that perhaps Indranila did not hear of the King Ugrasena, and therefore he must pay tribute, as other kings did. Then the wise King Indranila came personally and offered Pradyumna a tribute in the form of huge wealth. Then Pradyumna defeated the King Rishya of the Gujara province. After receiving tribute from him, he headed to the Chedi kingdom. The king of Chedi, Damaghosa, was the husband of Vasudeva's sister. His son was Shishupala, the archenemy of Krishna. Uddhava approached Damaghosha and asked him to pay tribute to Ugrasena for the rajasuya yagya. At that time Shishupala was present there. Hearing about this, he seemed enraged and lips twisted with rage said: “Truly, the ways of the world are inscrutable. Potter only may ask to Lord Brahma: “Who is the progenitor, you or I?" In ancient times, cursed by King Yayati, the Yadavas have lost their power. Now, having received a shallow kingdom, they yearn conquer the whole world! Krishna forced Ugrasena to ascend to the throne. And He doesn't feel any remorse from it conscience. Vasudeva has a bright body, how could he be born such a swarthy son? Shame on his family! Having defeated the army of Pradyumna, I will destroy Dvaraka and rid the Earth from Yadavas!" Having said these words, Shishupala was already intending rush into battle, but Damaghosha restrained him. After listening to pacifying words of his father, Shishupala a little cooled down. Then queen Srutisrava, the sister of Vasudeva, came, and confirmed that she did not want to conflict with the Yadavs. Recalling that Krishna was a cousin of Shishupala, she offered to invite His son, Pradyumnu, to the palace. In response, Shishupala sharply objected his mother that Krishna was his enemy, who became an obstacle to his marriage to Rukmini. Shishupala said, “If you take the side of my enemy, then I will simply tie you together with my father and imprison you in dungeon. If this does not happen, I will happily put an end to my life!" Hearing the rude words of his son, Damaghosha and the queen were silent. Uddhava returned and explained to the Yadavas what had happened in the palace of Damaghosha. Having insulted his parents with arrogant words, Shishupala left the city together with his numerous army. And there was a fierce battle between the Yadavas and Shishupala x and his friends. Akrura fought Dyuman. When Dyuman struck Akrura with his mighty mace, Satyaki came to his aid and with sharp arrows cut off the head of Dyuman, friend of Shishupala. Then Satyaki was attacked by another Shishupala's friend, Sakta, but Kritavarman killed him before he was able to approach Satyaki. He grabbed Sakta and threw him eight miles. Brother of Pradyumna, Bhanu, challenged Rangu and Pingu, two close friends of Shishupala to battle. With the sword that gave him Krishna, Bhanu killed both of them. Upon receiving news that Ranga and Pinga had been killed, Shishupala roared with rage and, ascending his chariot, released the brahmastra bestowed upon him by Dattatreya. However Pradyumna neutralized this weapon with his own brahmastra. Then Shishupala released the angararastra given to him by Parasurama on Mount Mahendra. When this weapon is also was neutralized by Pradyumna, Shishupala applied gajastra, which was awarded to him by Agastya Muni in the Malaya mountains. From this weapon came four streams of elephants, who began to destroy the Yadava army. To resist this weapon Pradyumna called on Narasimhaastra that produces monsters in the form of a half man-half lion, who began to devour these elephants. In the end, Shishupala grabbed his sword and shield, jumped from chariot and rushed to Pradyumna, like a moth throws itself on fire. Pradyumna burned down his sword and shield with his yamadanda, and then tied him with the bonds of Varuna. Then when Pradyumna raised his sword to kill Shishupala, Gada intervened and stopped him with the words: “He should only be killed by Krishna. This is the prediction of the demigods. You shouldn't contradict the words of the celestials." Then King Damaghosa arrived at that place and offered generous tribute to the Yadavas. Damaghosa embraced Pradyumna, begging him forgive Shishupala. So everything was settled and Yadava continued their conquests. When the Yadavas approached Konkan Country, they were greeted by King Medhavi, who challenged Pradyumna to a duel in clubs. Pradyumna tried to dissuade the proud king, but he replied: “If one of you crawls between my legs, then I will refrain from fighting." These words hurt Pradyumna's heart, but before he had time to answer, as Gada, Balarama's younger brother came forward holding a club. Very quickly, Medhavi fell to the ground with a broken mouth, and in this wretched state stopped the battle. Bowing to Pradyumna, Medhavi said, “I acted in such a way just to test your strength. You - a perfect king, and I am a wicked man. Kindly forgive my insults." In the days that followed, the Yadavas went through many countries, defeating their rulers and collecting tribute from them. While wandering with his army, Pradyumna also visited ashrams of great sages. On their journey the Yadavas reached the kingdom of Karusha, ruled by Vriddhasharma, whose wife was a sister of Vasudeva, Srutadevi. Their son was x Dantavakra, the sworn enemy of Krsna. Like Shishupala, he became enraged, upon hearing of the arrival of the Yadavs, and decided to fight with Pradyumna. Servant of the demons, Dantavakra rejected advice from parents, roared: "I will destroy all Yadavas!" Carrying huge club, Dantavakra, pitch black, came out alone against the Yadavas. His appearance was terrible. High like ten thala trees, he walked, shaking the ground and uprooting trees and mountains. Seeing Dantavakra, the Yadavas were afraid. Furious at battle, Dantavakra grabbed the elephants and threw them a hundred miles as a strong wind throws pieces of cotton in different directions. He threw horses and chariots into the sky, which fell on the heads of the soldiers who spitting blood. The eighteen gallant sons of Krishna attacked Dantavakru, but he brutally beat them. Then Balarama, Kritavarman, Akrura, Satyaki and other warriors attacked demon. Samba rushed to Dantavakra, but he angrily knocked him to the ground. Samba got up and knocked down too Dantavakra. Then Pradyumna entered the battle. Seeing Pradyumna, Dantavakra began to vomit curses and insults. Pradyumna listened to all his insults, and then attacked him. With his mighty club, Dantavakra shattered Pradyumna's chariot to pieces, forcing a thousand of his horses flee. Pradyumna took his club, and the battle continued. The mighty Dantavakra raised Pradyumna and threw him to the ground. Pradyumna quickly got up and, tenaciously grasping Dantavakra, hit him violently against the surface of the earth, which blood gushed from the unconscious demon's mouth, with broken bones. At that time Vrddhasharma, King of Karushi, and Queen Srutadevi appeared in that place with rich tribute and pacified Pradyumna. After that they returned to their city with Dantavakra, and Pradyumna and Yadavas continued their conquests. When the Yadavs reached the city of Kundin in the kingdom Vidarbhi, King Bhishmaka invited them to his kingdom and offered them immense riches. Pradyumna respectfully bowed to his own grandfather, and then continued his campaign. In the Malaya mountains Pradyumna saw a great sage Agastya, who once drank the whole ocean. After spending worship of the sage, Pradyumna talked to him about development of spiritual knowledge. Then the Yadavas went to Rajapur ruled by King Shalva. I (Narada) notified Shalva about Pradyumna's arrival and he went to report it Dvivid, the King of the monkeys. Infuriated that his friend Shalva was challenged, Dvivida, in a furious anger, went to Yadavas. Seeing Pradyumna approaching, Dvivida jumped onto his chariot and began to swing it from side to side. Pradyumna hooked the Dvivida with the tip of his bow and pulled him off his chariot. This action infuriated Dvivida, and he hit Pradyumna hard with his fist. Then Pradyumna struck Dvivida with his arrow, which threw him to the island of Lanka. After Pradyumna attacked Shalva, easily defeating x him. Meanwhile, while Dvivida was returning back, Pradyumna continued to conquer other countries and thus attained Setubandha. Staring at the ocean spread over a hundred yojanas, he hesitated in indecision. Pradyumna asked Uddhava if Vibhishana would give a tribute to him. Then Pradyumna decided to send a message to Vibhishana that he must pay tribute to King Ugrasena for the rajasuya yajna. If not, then he will build a bridge to Lanka with his arrows and come to Lanka. Pradyumna tied his message to an arrow and released it to the royal palace of Vibhishana, shining in all directions. Upon receiving the message, the surprised Vibhishana asked Shukracharya about the power of the Yadavas. In response, Shukracharya told ancient history: “In ancient times, four Kumaras, the sons of Brahma, arrived in Vaikuntha, where the guards of Jaya and Vijaya, considering them ordinary children, were not allowed into the abode of the Lord. This greatly angered the Kumars and they cursed Jaya and Vijaya to become demons for three births. In this way they fell from Vaikuntha and were born as the sons of Diti. The eldest was Hiranyaksha, and the youngest was Hiranyakasipu. They accepted death from Lord Varaha and Nrsimhadeva. In the next birth they became the sons of Vishrava and Keshini, their names were Ravana and Kumbhakarna. They were killed by Lord Rama. Now these two have appeared as Shishupala and Dantavakra, and Lord Krishna came down to kill them." Thus, Sukracharya explained to Vibhishana that the son of Sri Krishna, Pradyumna, came to take tribute for the rajasuya yajna, which King Ugrasena must perform. Vibhishana counted Krishna is an incarnation of Lord Rama, so he went to Pradyumna and offered him, along with prayers, a worthy tribute. In response Pradyumna, being satisfied, presented Vibhishana with many gifts received from various demigods for his previous victories. Then Vibhishana happily returned to Lanka. Pradyumna and Yadavas continued their march, and one day, when they set up camp for rest, they saw a naked avadhutu quickly approaching them, followed by laughing children. Pradyumna asked Uddhava about avadhuta, and he replied: “He is Dattatreya paramahamsa, the empowered incarnation of Lord Vishnu." Pradyumna approached Dattatreya, bowed and offered him honorary seat. In response to Pradyumna's question, Dattatreya taught him the transcendental knowledge of the Absolute Truth. Then the Yadavas drove through many places in southern India, collecting tribute from numerous kings. After all, they reached Mount Mahendra, the abode of Lord Parasurama. Pradyumna bowed to Parasurama and walked around him respectfully. The satisfied son of Jamadagni gave them hospitality. With its mystical power Parasurama created different types of food and fed the Yadavas, who were amazed, looking at this limitless diversity. Pradyumna seized an opportunity to ask Parasurama about transcendental understanding, and in a friendly circle they talked x about various spiritual topics. Continuing their tour, they came to the kingdom of Mithila, ruled by the descendant of King Janaka, Dhrti. Dhriti was the father of King Bahulashva and a great devotee of Lord Krishna. Uddhava informed Pradyumna that Krishna would come meet with Bahulashva in the future. Hearing this, Pradyumna disguised himself as a brahmana, and asked Uddhava to be his disciple and approached King Dhrti. They wanted experience the devotion of the king. Entering the city, Pradyumna was surprised to see that all the warriors are adorned with tilaka and, holding japa, they chant the holy names of Lord Krishna. The holy names of Krishna were written on all doors, and His appearance was painted on each location. All the walls in the city were decorated with pictures of Lord Vishnu, holding in his hands a club, a conch, a lotus and disk. And in front of every house there was a tulasi temple. As Pradyumna and Uddhava walked through the city, they saw that on both sides of the street people were hearing "Bhagavatam" and "Mahabharata". Then in other places they saw people narrating different Puranas, as well as Harivamsa. In many places Valmiki's "Ramayana" was recited. Everywhere the brahmanas performed yajnas. Kirtans were heard in the temples to the accompaniment of musical instruments. In every home, people were busy with one of the nine types of devotional service to the Lord. When Pradyumna and Uddhava entered the palace, they saw the great sages: Sukadeva, Vedavyasa, Narada, Gautama, Brihaspati and Vasishtha. Noticing the arrival of the brahmana and his disciple (Pradyumnu and Uddhava), king immediately rose from his seat to greet them. With folded hands, the descendant of Janaka said, “Today my life was successful, seeing you, I was purified. By your visit you have satisfied all the sages and demigods. Great personalities like you roam the Earth, just to bestow good on householders like me." In reply Pradyumna glorified devotion of subjects of the king to Lord Krishna. Janaka's descendant said: “This city, people and palace are not belong to me. My wife, kids and everything else belongs Lord Krishna. Whatever I do with my body mind and speech, I dedicate to the Supreme Lord Sri Krishna." The brahmana (Pradyumna) said, “O king, you are undoubtedly will achieve liberation by becoming one with the Lord." The king replied, “I do not want this kind of liberation. I consider myself as an eternal servant of the Supreme Lord and His devotees." Brahmana (Pradyumna) said, “You manifest every symptom of a pure devotee to the Lord. I'm surprised that Pradyumna traveling the world still hasn't come to you". King Dhrti, in a trembling voice from tears, said: “Pradyumna is all-pervading because he is the embodiment of the Lord Himself. Of course he's here." Brahmana (Pradyumna) said, “If you are sure that Pradyumna is all-pervading then make him appear here, just like Prahlada called Lord Nrsimha." The king said, “If I am truly devoted to the Supreme Lord, if I truly served Him and Hisx devotees, then I pray that He will now appear before me". Narada Muni continued, “Taking off the clothes of a brahmana, Pradyumna appeared before the king in his true form. At the sight of this magical transformation, the king was seized signs of ecstasy of love for the Lord. After the king offered words of praise, Pradyumna informed him that he came to him to ascertain his devotion, and assured him that he would attain sarupya-mukti at the end of his life. Then Pradyumna returned to his camp. After this Pradyumna and Yadavas went to the Magadhi kingdom. Upon hearing of their arrival, King Jarasandha began to boil out of rage. Together with twenty-three akshauhinis, he came out of his capital Girivraja, ready for battle. At sight this large army, the Yadavas were afraid, but Pradyumna assured them of victory and blew into his shell Dakshinavarta. Samba was the first to lead his army, and in a short time the warriors of Jarasandha from the great confrontation launched into escape. Jarasandha tried to unite his army, but in this time Samba appeared before him, shooting arrows at him. When Jarasandha crashed his chariot, Samba climbed another chariot. When Samba burned down the chariot of Jarasandha, he sat on an elephant and made the elephant raise Samba and throw him seventy miles. At this time Gada entered into the battle and with a mighty blow of his fist killed the elephant of Jarasandha. Then Jarasandha took a heavy club and hit Gada with it. Seeing that Gada did not even budge, Jarasandha grabbed him and threw him into the sky for eight hundred miles. Having landed, Gada lifted Jarasandha and threw him on eight thousand miles high across the ridges of Mount Vindhya. Despite this, Jarasandha returned and continued the battle with Gada and Samba. With the blows of his fists, Jarasandha made them faint and lie on the ground for a while. Seeing this, Pradyumna, standing in his chariot, hurried to help them. Although Pradyumna fought heroically, Jarasandha continued to mercilessly kill the Yadava soldiers. Then Balarama appeared from Dvaraka and with His plow pinned the helpless Jarasandha. While the demigods rained flowers from the sky, celebrating the victory of Balarama, son of Jarasandha, Sahadeva, brought a worthy tribute to the Yadavas. After this Pradyumna and Yadavas continued conquer other lands. Hearing about the defeat of Jarasandha, many kings came to them and voluntarily offered a rich tribute. When Pradyumna came to Kasi, he heard that the king of Kashi went to the forest to hunt, then he went to the forest, captured the king and made him pay tribute. Reaching the kingdom of Kosala, Pradyumna set up camp in Nandigram near Ayodhya. King Nagnajit has appeared there and voluntarily offered him a worthy tribute. Then, arriving in Prayag, Pradyumna bathed in Triveni. The King Poundraka lived there, who considered Krishna to be his enemy. But still from fear he came and paid tribute to Pradyumna.x When the Yadavas, led by Pradyumna, arrived to the kingdom of Panchalas, many kings fled, but the brave King Dirgabahu came to Pradyumna and offered to compromise. Dirgabahu said: “You have come here, having defeated many kings of different states. If you grant my wish you will give me great pleasure. If any of you will pierce with an arrow a glass vessel filled with water, so that not a single drop falls to the ground, and that the arrow pierced the vessel through, remaining in it without breaking it, then I will give one of my daughters to the winner. I heard from Narada that you are all very skilled in archery." Despite the fact that each of those present was surprised to hear this challenge, Pradyumna immediately accepted it. After that, a large bamboo pole was fixed in the ground. and tied a glass vessel to it. All residents gathered witness this extraordinary sight. Then Pradyumna took the arrow, placed it on the bowstring and released it into the glass vessel. Having pierced through the vessel, the arrow remained in it, half protruding from the front and back. The vessel remained intact did not budge, and not a drop of water came out of it. Then Pradyumna fired a second arrow and it stuck next to the first. Then Samba fired five arrows and all of them remained stuck in a vessel, like Pradyumna's. Following him Yuyudhana shot an arrow, and the vessel immediately shattered. All The Yadavas laughed loudly, saying, “You are undoubtedly great archer like Kartavirya Arjuna, Parasurama, Karna and Rama". Then they tied a new vessel of water to a bamboo pole. Aniruddha shot an arrow that pierced the vessel, without breaking it or spilling a single drop. After that, a large stone was placed on the vessel. Diptiman shot an arrow which fulfilled the required conditions. Son of Krishna, Bhanu, closed his eyes and fired an arrow. The vessel turned upside down, pierced by an arrow, but not a drop flowed out of him. Everyone was amazed! All eighteen sons of Krishna, who were present there, successfully struck the vessel and, amazed and very pleased King Dirgabahu gave them his eighteen daughters to wives. He also gave untold wealth in the form of dowry, and all this was sent to Dvaraka. Then the Yadavas went to Mathura, where they were given warm welcome. Following this Pradyumna went to Vrindavan, where he met the gopas and gopis. He expressed his respect to Nanda, Yasoda, Vrishabhanu and Upananda and gave them gifts. Satisfied with their hospitality, he spent many days in Vrindavana. Then the Yadavas continued their march. Breaking camp near Hastinapur, Pradyumna sent Uddhava talk to Dhritarashtra. Dhrtarastra sat on the throne, surrounded by Bhishma, Vidura, Duryodhana, Sakuni, Sanjaya, Karna, Shalya, Drona, Kripacharya, Bhurishrava, Ashwatthama and many other heroes. Bowing down to Dhritarashtra, Uddhava informed him that King Ugrasena intends tox intends to perform the rajasuya yagya. Telling which kings were defeated by Pradyumna, Uddhava asked Dhritarashtra to pay tribute to the Yadava king. Uddhava said, that if they do not voluntarily pay the tribute, it will become the cause of the battle between the Kauravas and the Yadavas. Upon hearing this, all of the Kuru heroes were inflamed with anger and in response began to offend the Yadavs. They advised Uddhava and the other Yadavas to quickly return to Dvaraka, otherwise they will quickly send all the Yadavas to the abode of Yamaraja. Uddhava returned to the Yadava camp and told Pradyumna that happened in Hastinapura. Hearing from Uddhava insulting words of the Kauravas, Pradyumna in a rage grabbed Sharnga bow and with his huge army of Yadavs moved on Hastinapur. The enthusiastic Kaurava army withdrew from Hastinapura and rushed to the attack. Helping the Kauravas the army arrived from Indraprastha, and their total strength was sixteen akshauhini. Duryodhana fought with Pradyumna, Bhishma with Aniruddha, Bhanu with Dronacharya, and Samba with Bahlika. When Duryodhana killed a thousand Pradyumna's horses by thousands arrows, Pradyumna climbed on another chariot and released a powerful arrow from which Duryodhana's chariot rose into the sky and, spinning, collapsed to the ground, scattering to pieces. Duryodhana climbed another chariot, but again Pradyumna fired an arrow from which the Duryodhana's chariot soared into the sky. The second arrow of Pradyumna threw the chariot of Duryodhana still above, into the heavenly space, and with the third arrow sent the chariot into the Hastinapura palace that landed at the feet of Dhritarashtra and shattered into pieces. Having done this incredible miracle, the arrow returned to Pradyumna's quiver. Duryodhana fell unconscious with blood flowing from his mouth. The spirit of the Kaurava army was broken due to this event, however, the mighty Bhishma, entering the battle, created chaos in the ranks of the Yadavas. Then Aniruddha appeared before Bhishma, and a fierce battle ensued. When Bhishma threw a huge club at Anirudha, he caught it and threw back. The wounded Bhishma fell from the chariot to the ground. Then Samba showed unprecedented valor on the battlefield, surprising the warriors of both armies. Bhishma entered the battle again and together with Drona and Karna they began to brutally attack Yadavas. Then Krishna and Balarama appeared on the battlefield. The warriors on both sides laid aside their weapons and, with folded hands offered reverence to the two divine brothers, and even Duryodhana laid down his weapon and expressed to Them reverence. Krishna and Balarama approached Duryodhana, asking him to forgive Pradyumna's rude words. They convinced everyone that the Kauravas and Yadavas should not fight among themselves, being tied by family ties. So They established peace between the two dynasties, and then Pradyumna and the Yadavas went to x Indraprastha with Krishna and Balarama. Hearing of the arrival of Krishna and Balarama, the King Yudhishthira left the city and greeted Them. All residents of the city came out to see Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama, chanting Their glories. Maharaja Yudhishthira embraced Krishna and Balarama, who then embraced Bhima and Arjuna. And Sahadeva and Nakula went to Them and offered their obeisances. Soon after, Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama returned to Dvaraka. King Yudhishthira and Arjuna joined the Yadavs to secure their victory in other places. A huge Yadava army set off for the kingdom of Trigartas. Susharma did not want to fight the Yadavas and therefore he voluntarily paid the tribute. Defeating the multitude regions, Pradyumna came to the country of mlecchas, which ruled by the son of Kalayavana, Chanda. Since Krishna has appeared the cause of his father's death, Chanda went out to fight the Yadavas along with his large army of mlecchas. Pradyumna announced that anyone who would bring him the severed head of Chanda will be appointed to the post of commander-in-chief. Arjuna went into battle and soon met with Chanda. In a fierce battle, Arjuna cut off the mleccha king's head with his sword. Taking Chanda's severed head, he planted it on arrow and shot at Pradyumna's feet. So Arjuna became commander-in-chief of the Yadava army. Then the Yadav army reached Sonitapur, a city of Banasura, which was located near Mount Kailash. Seeing them approaching, Banasura became furious and prepared for battle. In this time Lord Shiva and Parvati arrived there riding the bull Nandi. Lord Shiva said, “You should know that Lord Sri Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and that Brahma, Vishnu and I myself are His expansions. Therefore, we are always subject to Him. Remember how your thousand hands were cut off by the Lord Krishna because you have captured His grandson Aniruddha. Aniruddha is your son-in-law and therefore I will not let you fight with the Yadavas." Narada Muni continued, “Having received an order from his adored Lord Shiva, Banasura called Aniruddha and gave him great wealth in the form of tribute. Then Pradyumna and the Yadava army went to Alakapuri, the abode of the yakshas. Although Kuvera, the lord of the yakshas, knew well the supreme position of Sri Krishna, however under the influence of the illusory energy of Lord, he proudly thought: "I am one of the patrons of the planets." For this reason, Kuvera decided to fight the Yadavas. Kuvera sent a messenger to Pradyumna, saying that as Indra is the king of the demigods in the heavenly kingdom, so he, Kuvera, is the king of all kings on Earth, and therefore he does not want to pay tribute to the Yadava king. Kuvera noted that if Pradyumna will not accept this, he is ready to fight.
Hearing Kuvera's message, Pradyumna blushed with anger and conveyed to the messenger that he gladly accepts the challenge of Kuvera. Soon Kuvera climbed on x his Pushpaka chariot along with his sons Manigriva and Nalakuvara and entered the battle. A huge army of yakshas followed them. Some yakshas had ridiculous forms: they had crocodile heads, heads of horses, lions or turtles. Many ghosts and spirits came to their aid. All earth and sky were covered in ghosts and goblins. Then arrived Virabhadra, as well as Karttikeya riding a peacock and Ganesha - on a rat. In this great battle, the following happened: Chandrabhanu, the son of Krishna and Rukmini, fought with Manigreeva, and soon Kuvera's son fell to the ground unconscious. Nalakuvara fought with Kritavarma, and fainted from stream of arrows of Kritavarma. While Gada, the younger brother of Balarama, was being driven back by ghosts and spirits on the battlefield, Virabhadra entered the battle. Virabhadra and Gada fought in fierce duel until Gada threw away Virabhadra to Mount Kailash. Then Karttikeya entered the battle and attacked Samba and Aniruddha. Samba, son of Krishna and Jambavati, fired a mighty arrow that hit the peacock of Karttikeya, son of Parvati, and also wounded him. Ganesha, riding a rat, entered the battle. Ganesha had four arms, in which he held the lasso, goad, poleaxe and lotus. Pradyumna said to Aniruddha, “Ganesha cannot be defeated because he received a blessing from Krishna in Kailash. While he is on the battlefield, we can't win. I want you to take shape of ferocious cat and scared Ganesha's rat so that he carried him off the battlefield." Aniruddha immediately accepted the shape of a cat and suddenly appeared in front of Ganesha's rat. When the cat scratched the rat with its sharp claws, it fled in horror from the battlefield, pursued by a ferocious cat. Looking at this sight, Kuvera decided to fight by ascending on his Pushpaka chariot. Kuvera caused the illusion of the yakshas, creating darkness around and sending rain pouring in streams the size of an elephant's trunk. All oceans seemed to connect together like it was a worldwide flood at the time of destruction of the universe. All the Yadava warriors in horror began to chant Krishna's name. Pradyumna, realizing that it was created by the yakshas illusion, repeated the kama-bija mantra, conjuring an arrow. He wrote the name of Krishna on the point of an arrow and stretching to the ear, released it with great force. Taking off, the arrow illuminated the entire space and dispelled all the illusion of the yakshas. Seeing this, Kuvera left the battlefield in fear, and all the yakshas followed him. After some time, Kuvera came to Pradyumna and offered him a rich tribute, as well as glorifying prayers. After that, no king dared to challenge Pradyumna, knowing that he defeated Kuvera, the guardian of heavenly riches. When the Yadavas approached Pragjyotishapura, which was under the rule of King Nila, son of Bhaumasura, Nila immediately agreed to pay tribute. Above the gate of Pragjotishapura lived a monkey named Dvivida. Pradyumna shot an arrow at him and he furious, attacked the Yadav army, tearing them apart with his teeth and nails. Wrapping horses with his tail, Dvivida threw them into the х ocean, and grabbing the elephants by the trunk, threw them into the sky. Then Pradyumna took the Sharnga bow and released the mighty arrow that threw Dvivida high into the sky, spinning him with great force. Having flown a great distance Dvivida fell in the city of Kishkinda. Having done this amazing miracle, the arrow returned to Pradyumna's quiver. Then the Yadavs went to the country of Kimpurusha. King of Kimpurusha, Subahu, wholeheartedly glorified the Lord Krishna, and so satisfied Pradyumna. When Pradyumna asked Subahu how his capital Rangavalli got this name, the king told the following story. King Subahu said, “In ancient times, the demigods and demons churned the milky ocean. From churning milk a vessel of nectar appeared. When Lord Vishnu looked at this nectar, tears flowed from His eyes and fell into a vessel with nectar. From these tears a tulasi tree grew, and Lord Madhusudana named her Rangavalli. In this way, The Lord installed the Rangavalli tree. Hanuman, the great devotee of Lord Rama lives here in Kimpurusha-varsa." Then Pradyumna went to see this famous Rangavalli tree and then continued his military campaign. At the valley of Mount Hemakuta, they entered a wonderful forest. A huge snake, eighty miles long, crept out of this forest. This snake began to swallow elephants and spew poisonous flames in all directions. Krishna's sons shot at her with streams of arrows, and as a result, when the snake was killed, a gandharva emerged from it. After bowing to the sons of Krishna, he climbed the vimana and flew to the heavenly abode." King Bahulashva asked: “O great sage, who was is this gandharva in his past life? You know the past present and future, please tell me about it." Sri Narada replied, “This Gandharva was formerly called Sumati. One day, desiring to hear the glories of Lord Rama, he went to the place where Hanuman was meditating on the Lord. When Sumati broke Hanuman's meditation and delivered him many worries, Hanuman became angry with him and cursed to become a snake. When Sumati fell at his feet and begged for forgiveness, Hanuman told him that he freed from this curse in Dvapara-yuga when the sons of Krishnas will kill him with their arrows. Leaving Kimpurusa-varsa, the Yadavas went to Harivarsa, and then to the province of Uttara-kuru. King of Uttara-kuru, Gunakara, wanted to perform the ashvamedhayagya and therefore released a sacrificial horse, which was protected by his son Viradhanva. Ten sons of Krishna caught the sacrificial horse and brought him to the Yadava camp. It was message tied to the horse, and the Yadavas read it. Then Pradyumna sent Uddhava to Viradhanva's camp. Uddhava explained to Viradhanva, that King Ugrasena is planning to perform the rajasuya yagya and Pradyumna collects tribute for this purpose. In response, Viradhanva informed Uddhava that his father, Gunakara, performed austerities and received darshan of Lord Varaha,who blessed him to defeat any demigod or human. Viradhanva advised Uddhava to return sacrificial horse. Uddhava returned to Pradyumna and conveyed to him the words of Viradhanva. Then a terrible battle began between the warriors of Uttarakuru and Yadavas. Son of Krishna and Kalindi, Purnamasa, fought with Viradhanva. And after a while Purnamasa lifted a mountain called Ravana and threw it into his enemy. This mountain carried Viradhanva all the way to the Varaha's sacrificial arena of his father to the capital of Uttara-kura. King Gunakara, seeing his unconscious son, rose from his seat of the sacrificial arena, took the bow and decided to fight. At this time, the great sage Vamadeva appeared before Gunakara and informed him that Pradyumna was the son of the Supreme Lord Sri Krishna, who descended to earth and lives in Dvaraka. Hearing the glories of Lord Krishna from Vamadeva, the King Gunakara pacified his anger and went to Pradyumna with rich tribute. Then Pradyumna returned the sacrificial horse to King Gunakara. Following this, the Yadavas went to Hiranmaya-khanda, where many monkeys lived, led by Nila and Nala, who received their kingdom in Treta-yuga from Lord Rama. When the monkeys saw the warlike Yadava army, they decided to fight and rushed to the attack. Wrapping with tails the chariots, they easily threw them into the sky. However, Hanuman, who was present at the flag of Arjuna, seeing the behavior of these monkeys, became very angry. Appearing there, he embraced all the monkeys with his mighty tail and threw them to the ground. Then the monkeys immediately recognized him and surrendered to his feet in great humility. The king of this province, Devasakha, voluntarily paid a rich tribute to Pradyumna. From Hiranmaya-khanda Yadavas went to Ramyaka-khanda. Kalanka, son of Kalanemi, came to this place from Lanka in Treta-yuga for fear of Rama. Black Kalanka decided to fight the Yadavas, and therefore saddled his donkey. In that battle between the demons and the Yadavas, the huge Kalanka grabbed chariots and soldiers with his mouth and swallowed them. Praghosa, the son of Krishna, released his kapindra weapon and from this weapon came Hanuman, who grabbed Kalanka and threw him eight hundred miles away. Kalanka recognized Hanuman and threw a heavy club at him. Hanuman dodged the club, and fierce duel began between them. In the end, Hanuman lifted the mountain and brought it down on the demon, taking his life. Having slain the Kalanka, Hanuman disappeared mystically. Then Pradyumna learned from the locals that Shraddhadeva Manu, the great grandfather of all the kshatriyas of the Earth, lived in this place, worshiping Lord Matsya. Pradyumna with some of the Yadavas went to Mount Manava, where he saw Shraddhadeva Manu along with the great sages, such as Vyasadeva, Sukadeva, Vasistha and Brihaspati. They discussed the glories of Lord Hari. Pradyumna offered obeisances to the great sages, and Shraddhadeva Manu invited xx him to sit down. After a pleasant conversation Pradyumna with their permission left. Then the Yadavas went to Ketumala-khanda. There Pradyumna saw that all people, without exception, glorify Lord Krishna, knowing that He came down to Earth to lighten her burden. Then the Yadavs went to the capital of Manmatha-salini-puri and happily lived there. They happily listened to people describing the pastimes of Sri Krishna, what was included in their daily practice. Pradyumna spent a whole year in Manmatha-salinipuri. From Ketumala-khanda the Yadavas directed their feet to Bhadrasvakhanda, where there on the border was a Mountain Gandhamadana. There, King Bhadrashva worshiped the Lord Hayagriva. Upon hearing of the arrival of the Yadavs, the king came to Pradyumna and in conversation informed the son of Krishna about the evil Shakuni, the younger brother of the demon Shakatasura, whom Krishna killed in Vrindavan. Bhadrashva asked Pradyumna to kill Sakuni, the hated enemy of the demigods. And then a fierce battle ensued between the Yadavas and Daityas. After a long battle in which many demons died, the demon King Shakuni appeared before Pradyumna. By simply pulling back and releasing the string of his bow, made by demon Maya, Shakuni forced many Yadavas to fall on the field from the terrible sound of his bowstring. And then a fierce battle began between Shakuni and Pradyumna. When Shakuni used Rauravastra, created by Maya Danava, countless venomous snakes and scorpions crawled from all sides and began to sting the Yadava soldiers. In response, Pradyumna released Garudastra so that millions of huge birds very quickly devoured all the snakes and scorpions. Shakuni then summoned countless goblins and ghosts that spewed flames. Pradyumna used the weapon Satvastra, summoning the associates of Lord Vishnu, who immediately dispelled the demon's illusion. This battle lasted a long time. When Shakuni applied the rakshasa illusion, Pradyumna, in contrast, applied Narasimhastra. Lord Nrsimha appeared on the battlefield in terrifying form and began to grab the demons, throw them under His feet and trample mercilessly. With the destruction of this illusion the demon Shakuni disappeared. Then with the help of his mystical power Shakuni created the illusion of destruction of the universe, plunging everything into a universal flood. At this time, the Yadavas decided that they were finished. Then Pradyumna put Krishnastra on the string of his bow, at once everything around was lit up with a dazzling radiance, and Lord Krishna appeared there in His effulgent four-armed form as a Lord of Dvaraka. Seeing the Lord, all the Yadavas revived, and Shakuni fled in fear from the battlefield. When Shakuni fled with his army, Sri Krishna called Pradyumna and informed him: “In the old days Shakuni performed severe austerities and thus pleased Lord Shiva.x When Mahadev offered his blessings, Shakuni asked: “Let it be that whenever I was killed, as soon as my body touches the ground, I will immediately come to life. He also asked that he could not be killed in the sky. Lord Shiva gave Shakuni a parrot in a cage, saying: “Protect this parrot as your own life. When this parrot dies, know that you have become mortal." Having said these words, Mahadev disappeared. Oh Pradyumna, only by killing this parrot in the fortress can you kill Shakuni." Then Krishna called Garuda, and by His order Garuda flew to the city of Chandravati. There he saw Shakuni, preparing for battle. At this time his queen Madalasa came and tried to dissuade Shakuni from joining fighting because of Lord Krishna's presence on the battlefield. She began to beg her husband to pay the necessary tribute, than risking his life in battle. While Garuda overheard their conversation, Shakuni said to his queen: “On the island of Chandra there is a parrot that represents my soul. Lord Shiva gave it to me. This parrot is under the reliable protection of a snake named Shankhachuda. This secret is unknown to anyone. So I'm sure that no one can kill me in battle." Overhearing their conversation, Garuda flew to the ocean in search of an Chandradwipa. Flying from island to island, he reached Lanka. While the hungry Garuda was fed with fish, sixteen miles long crocodile crept up, grabbed Garuda by the leg and dragged into the ocean. Garuda tried confront him on the shore, and it was like a tug of war game. Then Garuda with violent force became peck the crocodile in the back, and the crocodile immediately died, and from the body vidyadhara came out. Vidyadhara bowed to Garuda and said, “Before I was vidyadhara named Hemakundala. Once I went to bathe in the heavenly Ganga. Sage Kakkutha has already bathed in its waters, and playfully, for fun, I grabbed his feet and pull on myself. Because of this stupid act, he cursed me and I became a crocodile. I tried pacify the sage by completely repenting, and he blessed me that I will free myself from this curse from your touch." After that, Vidyadhara and Garuda said goodbye and each set off in his own direction. Then Garuda met me (Narada), I told him where is Chandradwipa. Arriving there, Garuda saw demons, guarding the entrance to the cave. Then he attacked the demons, killing many of them. Entering the cave, he stepped on the Shankhachuda snake, which got scared and threw the Shakuni's parrot, who is in the cage, into the water. Garuda grabbed parrot cage and flew back to Lord Krishna on battlefield. Then the demons guarding the cave reported Shakuni on the abduction of a parrot by Garuda. Shakuni was greatly alarmed. Grabbing a sword and a trident, he soared into the sky and chased Garuda. Even though the demon wounded Garuda with his trident, Garuda firmly held the cage with the parrot in his beak and continued to fly. However, when the demon attacked Garuda the second time, the cage with the parrot fell from his beak and fell on the hard ledge of Mount Sumeru, x the cage is crashed, and the parrot died. Then Garuda returned to Krishna on the battlefield. Then Shakuni mounted Uchaishrava horse and stood before Krsna, desiring to fight. Seeing Shakuni again entered the battle, the Yadava warriors took up arms, and fierce battle began. Shakuni took many different forms, fighting with Krsna. Changing arrows for clubs, Krishna and Shakuni resumed fighting. When the Shakunis club was smashed to pieces, the battle continued into fist fight. In this duel, Shakuni uprooted Mount Jarudha and threw it at Krishna. Seeing the approaching mountain, Krishna sent it with a blow of his fist back to Shakuni. So many mountains were scattered everywhere, causing the city of Chandravati to fall into ruins. Shakuni then appeared before Krishna with sword and shield in hand. Krishna took His Sharnga bow and released a sharp sickle-tipped arrow that blew off the Shakuni's head. But as soon as Shakuni fell to the ground, life again returned to him. Shakuni stood up, raised his head and put it to the body. It really was a miracle! This action was repeated seven times, so Shakuni continued madly grabbing soldiers, horses and elephants, scattering them on one hundred thousand yojanas in different directions. Finally, Lord Krishna summoned His Sudarshanachakra and skillfully cut off Shakuni's head, raised the headless body of a demon from the ground and threw it high in space. Lord Krishna told the Yadavas: “Shoot arrows at Shakuni's body to keep it in the sky. "Samba shot arrows at the Shakuni's falling body, forcing him to rise up. Then when the body is again began to fall, Arjuna released his arrows, throwing him high in the sky by ten thousand yojanas. So, one by one, the heroes of Yadava did not allow Shakuni's body to fall to the ground. When Pradyumna with his arrows threw back Shakuni's headless body for million yojanas to the sky, nevertheless, after a while it began to fall again. Seeing this, Krishna fired an arrow that caught the Shakuni's body and carried him ten million yojanas in height, and then the demon's body fell into the ocean. So this demon left the body from which a spiritual spark came out, flew around the Lord Krsna and entered His transcendental body. In this moment the demigods, headed by Brahma, appeared and glorified the Lord. After Lord Krishna entered with the Yadavas to the city of Chandravati, Shakuni's queen and grieving wife approached Him, and laid her young son beside His lotus footsteps. At her request, Krishna laid His hand on child's head and bestowed upon him his father's kingdom and long life, equal to one kalpa, together with transcendental knowledge, devotion and renunciation. Then Krishna took off His flower garland and put it around the young prince's neck. In ancient times, Shakuni stole from Indra Ucchaishrava horse, cintamani gem, kalpa-vriksa and the kamadhenu cow. Now Krishna has given them back to Indra, x the king of heaven. King Bahulashva asked: “Who was Shakuni and others demons in their previous life? Oh sage, I would be glad to hear about it." Narada Muni said, “Long ago in the Brahma-kalpa lived the king of the gandharvas, Pravasu, and he had nine glorious sons who are very skilled in music. One day when the Lord Brahma, seized with lust, chased his daughter, these sons of Pravasu began to laugh at him and because of this insults in the next life were born in Shvetavaraha-kalpa from the womb of Hiranyakasipu's wife. Once the sage Apantaratama appeared in their abode, and these demon princes asked him the following question: “The demigods with devotion worship Lord Hari, but we demons are by nature hostile to the Lord. How can we reach His highest abode?" Then the sage explained to them in what mood they can reach the Lord. If a person constantly thinks of the Lord - either with devotion, or with lust, anger or in fear, he will reach Him. And Shakuni, one of the sons of Haranyakasipu, began to think of the Lord as his enemy. Then the Yadavas went to Ilavrita-varsa, where there was Mount Sumeru, like the inside part of a lotus. In Ilavrita-varsa, the Jambu River, full of gold, was flowing. this country had many amazing rivers, one of them is a river of honey. Whoever drank from this river never felt fatigue, and his body never gave off unpleasant odors. The ground there looked emerald. In Satya-yuga, King Shobhana, son-in-law of Muchukunda, performed Ekadashi-vrata in Bharata-varsa and thus earned the right to live in Ilavrita-varsa on the Mountain Mandrachala. Even before Pradyumna arrived there, King Shobhana ruled there along with his wife Chandrabhaga. King Shobhana voluntarily paid tribute to the Yadavas. After leaving Ilavrita-varsa, Lord Krishna showed Uddhava the place where Svayambhuva Manu performed austerities. He explained how the eight mystical perfections stay there, embodied in the guise of young women. Later Lord Krishna showed the city of Vedanagara in Jambudwipa, where the Vedas manifested themselves in their personified form. There the goddess Sarasvati, relentlessly praising the Lord, holding the book and sitar. All the apsaras living there are trying satisfy the Vedas with their dancing. I myself (Narada) along with Tumbura and other gandharvas sing the glories of the Lord there. Eighteen talas, seven swaras and three gramas appeared there in their personified forms. Thus, all kinds of musical ragas and their spouses-raginis are manifested there in their personified forms. Ragas, raginis and the personified Vedas offered eloquent prayers to Krishna, who then traveled to Dvaraka in his chariot driven by Daruka. After this, the Yadavas went to the Damadugha River, where Vasantamalati, the city of the gandharvas, was located. The gandharva King Patanga, upon hearing of the arrival of the Yadavas, prepared for battle. And then a terrible battle began between the Yadavas and gandharvas. While x Patanga fought with great valor, a radiant effulgence suddenly appeared from the direction of Dvaraka. From this effulgence came Lord Balarama, dressed in blue garments. The enraged Lord hooked an army of Gandharvas with His plow and pulled them to Himself. When the Gandharvas managed to escape to their Vasantamalati city, Balarama uprooted the entire city and set out to throw it into the river. While Balarama was pulling the city towards Him, all the city palaces began to collapse, and the Gandharvas were seized with panic. King Patanga immediately appeared and with folded hands offered obeisances and immeasurable riches in the form of a tribute to Lord Balarama. Hearing prayers glorifying Him, Balarama became pleased with the gandharva king and everything was settled. Then Lord Balarama returned to Dvaraka. The Yadavas continued on their way, gaining victory for victory. While in their camp they were resting by the Arunoda River, Indra, seated on his elephant Airavata, suddenly descended from the sky. While the Yadavas were gathering their weapons, the king of heaven said to Pradyumna, “O gallant king, please listen to me. There is a wondrous city called Lilavati, which located on the top of Mount Suvarnagiri. It is ruled by a king of vidyadharas, Sukriti. He has a beautiful daughter, Sundari, who is radiant like hundreds of moons. All the demigods, including the lords of the planets, want to go to her svayamvara. However, the princess said: “I would only like to marry that man, looking at whom I would lose consciousness". O Pradyumna, you should visit to svayamvara of Sundari with your brothers." Then Pradyumna and his brothers went together with Indra to the city of Lilavati. The arena of Sundari's swayamvara was beautifully decorated. All the demigods were sitting there, but upon the arrival of Pradyumna, they lost all hope of obtaining the lovely Sundari. Sundari then entered the arena, holding a garland of gems in her hands. She was so attractive that everyone who looked at her forgot everything in the world. As soon as Sundari glanced at the charming Pradyumna, she instantly fainted. When she regained consciousness, she put a garland around Pradyumna's neck. And King Sukriti gave his daughter to Pradyumna. However, the demigods present there could not tolerate this. They surrounded the arena with weapons in hand. Then Pradyumna roared like a lion and began to shoot his arrows in streams, destroying the weapons of the demigods. When all the demigods fled and the wedding was over, Pradyumna decided to return to Bharatavarsa. As soon as the Yadavas entered Dvaraka, Krishna, Balarama, Ugrasena and others came to greet them. Pradyumna bowed down to King Ugrasena, Krishna, Balarama and Garga Muni. Every house in Dvaraka was filled with celebration. O king, so I have described everything you asked me about. what still tell you?" King Bahulashva said, “O sage, I would like to hear how King Ugrasena performed the rajasuya yajna."x Narada Muni said, “After Garga Muni had appointed an auspicious day for the sacrifice, King Ugrasena, with the help of Sri Krishna, began preparations for the yagya. All great sages and brahmanas were invited to this grand sacrifice at Dvaraka. Vedavyasa, Sukadeva Gosvami, Parasara arrived there, Maitreya, Paila, Sumanta, Durvasa, Vashampayana, Jaimini, Parasurama, Dattatreya, Asita, Angira, Vamadeva, Atri, Vasishtha, Kanva, Viswamitra, Bharadwaja, Gautama, Kapila, Sanaka, Patanjali, Dronacharya, Kripacharya and many other sages with their disciples. Lord Brahma, Siva, Indra and other powerful demigods also arrived there. Maharaja Bali, along with many daityas and danavas, also came to witness the rajasuya yajna of King Ugrasena. And also Jambavan came along with his companions, Garuda and Vasuki, along with the nagas. There also appeared the personifications of the seven oceans. Giriraj Govardhan, Yasoda and Sri Radha arrived from Vrindavana along with millions of gopis. Dhrtarastra, Duryodhana, Bhisma, Karna and the five Pandavas came there. Who can count all those who took part in the rajasui sacrifice of King Ugrasena? The Rajasuya sacrifice was performed on Mount Raivata. Gargacharya was the head priest. The Lord of sacrifice, Sri Krishna, was present with His sons. Streams of ghee, as thick as the trunk of an elephant, poured into the fire at this amazing yagya. Because of this, Agni, the god of fire, suffered from indigestion. All the demigods also suffered from indigestion by consuming enormous amounts of soma-rasa. At the end of the sacrifice, King Ugrasena took a ceremonial bath with his queen Ruchimati. Then countless riches were distributed in the form of alms, and the brahmanas left completely satisfied. The demigods received their share of the sacrificial offerings and returned to their heavenly abodes in a joyful mood. Demons, nagas and animals also left completely satisfied. In this way everything was fulfilled by the grace of Purna Purusha, Lord Sri Krishna, who appeared in the Yadu dynasty, to free the Earth from an immense burden.
Sri Garga Samhita Canto Ten: Ashvamedha-khanda
Sri Saunaka Rishi said, “O Suta, I have heard from you the Puranas, which contain
countless stories about the pastimes of Lord Hari. Previously, the sage Garga told me
the Garga-samhita, in which the glories of Radha and Krishna were loudly sung. I
would like to hear it again, but from your lips ”.
Sri Garga Muni said, “When eighty-eight thousand sages in the Naimisaranya forest
wanted to hear about Lord Hari, Suta Goswami began to speak.
Sri Suta Goswami said, “O Saunaka, you are truly glorious because you desire to
concentrate on the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord Sri Krishna, who delivers one from
all sins.
Once, after the ashvamedha-yajna was performed by King Ugrasena, Garga Muni
said to himself, “In the Garga-samhita narrated by me, I described the innumerable
pastimes of Lord Krishna, but I did not describe this ashvamedha sacrifice, which the
Lord approved. Now I will tell you about this lila." Garga Muni then narrated
Ashvamedha-khanda, which is like the summit of Mount Sumeru in the land of
Garga-samhita. Then he went to Mathura to see King Vajranabha.
Seeing Garga Muni descend from heaven, King Vajranabha, along with the
brahmanas, greeted him. After washing the feet of the sage, the king sat him on a lion
throne and offered him a garland.
King Vajranabha said, “O sage, you are a welcome guest in my house! I bow down to
you in reverence. Tell me, what service can I do you? You are our family priest and
guru, with your arrival our dynasty became sacred. "
Sri Garga Muni said, "O king, you are ruling your kingdom in good faith under the
rule of Emperor Pariksit."
Sri Suta Goswami said: “While the great sage Gargacarya was speaking, King
Vajranabha remembered his great-grandfather Lord Krishna, and under the influx of
feelings of ecstatic emotion, tears flooded from his eyes. Seeing this, Garga Muni
spoke comforting words to him: “Why are you grieving when I am here? Please tell
me what is the reason for your unhappiness? "
Despite the sage's questions, the king was silent, bowing his head in great sorrow.
Finally, when the sage prompted him to open his mind, King Vajranabha spoke in a
trembling voice: “O teacher, I feel separation from my ancestors, the great Yadavas,
who left this world, leaving me alone. Even my wealth, army and entourage cannot
allay my grief. I witnessed the destruction of the Yadu dynasty, even the great
Dvaraka disappeared into the depths of the ocean. The Lord, having assumed His
four-armed form, returned to His eternal abode. Why do I continue to live? Today I
will renounce everything that I possess and go to a deep forest to perform austerities.
Sri Garga Muni said, “Please listen to my words, which will surely dispel your
sorrow. I will tell you about the pastimes of Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama, which
will liberate you from all material miseries."
Garga Muni then narrated the Garga-samhita to King Vajranabha for nine days. After
hearing the pastimes of Lord Krishna, King Vajranabha was relieved of his sorrow
and rejoiced in his heart.
Bowing to Garga Muni, he said, “Hearing the stories of Lord Krishna's pastimes, I
got rid of my sorrow. Yet my thirst for hearing the stories of the Lord's pastimes was
never quenched. I have heard King Ugrasena perform the ashvamedha-yajna in
ancient times. Please tell me this story."
Sri Garga Muni said: “Once the sage Narada, accompanied by the Gandharva
Tumburu, after returning from Brahmaloka, arrived at the palace of King Ugrasena.
Narada's body was dark and youthful. King Ugrasena, seeing Narada and Tumbura,
rose from his throne, bowed and offered them a place to sit. Then he washed their
feet, and then he sprinkled this water on his head.
King Ugrasena said: “O sage, having met you, I gained good fortune. What brought
you here? Please tell me what I can do for you."
Sri Narada Muni replied, “O King of the Yadavas, you are famous and glorified. In
response to your devotion, Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama are now living on this
earth. Before, on my order, you performed the rajasuya yajna, and Yudhisthira
performed it on the order of Lord Krishna. However, no king has performed
ashvamedha-yajna since that time. This sacrifice is the best of all, as it takes away all
the sins of a person and bestows deliverance."
Hearing Narada's words, King Ugrasena decided to perform the ashvamedha yagya.
At that moment, Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama appeared in the royal palace. The
King immediately rose to greet Them, and then seated Them on the royal throne.
King Ugrasena said, “O Lord of the universe, my son, Kamsa, killed thousands of
children with the help of demons. Where is my sinful son now? What planet did he
go to after death? I am afraid of the sinful deeds that my wicked son has committed.
It is known that the father will suffer in hell for the sins of his son. Oh Krishna, what
should I do? Narada Muni told me that through the ashvamedha-yajna one can be
freed from all grievous sins. Therefore, if You allow me, then I would like to perform
the ashvamedha-yajna."
Hearing his words, Lord Krishna thought, “I have come down to earth to lighten her
burden. Many demonic kings have already been killed, but many more survived.
Therefore, using the opportunity, I will send the heroic Yadavs to free the Earth from
all the remaining burden."
Thinking thus, Lord Krishna replied to the king, “My dear Ugrasena, because your
son, Kamsa, was killed by My hand, he attained an exalted position. Do not worry.
Believe me. He went to the transcendental abode and received a body like Mine. And
by associating with Me, you will also be freed from all sinful consequences. But still
you have to do the ashvamedha-yajna just to become famous."
Satisfied, King Ugrasena replied, “O Lord, I will do as You said. Now kindly tell me
in detail how to perform this horse sacrifice."
Lord Krishna said, "It would be better if you heard about this from the great sage
Narada, who is personally present here."
King Ugrasena addressed Sri Narada, “O brahmana, what horse should I use for this
sacrifice? How many brahmanas should perform this yajna? What reward should
they be offered after this sacrifice? "
Sri Narada Muni replied, “My dear king, the sacrificial horse should be white, its tail
yellow, its head red and its ears black. This horse must be very handsome and
slender. He should wander the Earth, in whatever direction he wants, on the full
moon of the month of Chaitra. Mighty warriors must protect him for one year, until
he returns. During this time, the one who performs this sacrifice must patiently await
it. While the horse is wandering around the earth, wherever he urinates or defecates,
there the brahmanas should perform a fire sacrifice, and then distribute in the form of
alms to a thousand cows. On the horse's head, there should be a gold plate engraved
with the name of the person who intends to perform the sacrifice. The warriors
defending the horse should proclaim: “We have released this horse. If someone
considers himself powerful and strong enough, he can catch him. If he catches him,
he will have to fight us."
Twenty thousand brahmanas must be invited to perform the ashvamedha yagya.
Each of them should come from a noble family, be well versed in the Vedas and
experienced in severe austerities. At the beginning of the sacrifice, each brahmana
should receive in the form of dakshina one thousand horses, one hundred elephants,
two hundred chariots, one thousand cows and two hundred bharas of gold. The same
amount should be offered to them after the sacrifice.
While the sacrificial horse wanders the Earth for one year, the one who performs the sacrifice must be celibate and sleep on the floor. For this reason, many kings are afraid to perform this horse sacrifice. Now, if you consider yourself capable of performing this sacrifice, you should call Garga Muni."
King Ugrasena told Narada that he would perform the sacrifice and asked the sage to
go to his stable and choose a horse. After carefully examining the king's horses,
which were of different colors,
Narada Muni said to Ugrasena in the presence of Sri Krishna: “O king, all the horses in your stable are very beautiful, you cannot find such horses anywhere in the world. By the grace of Lord Krishna, you have some truly amazing horses, but there is no horse with black ears. "
These words painfully echoed in the heart of King Ugrasena, He thought: "How then
to carry out this sacrifice?"
Seeing the king's sadness, Lord Krishna smiled and said, “O king, do not be sad and
listen to Me. Go to My stable and choose a horse with black ears."
The king hurried to Krishna's stable and, entering there, he saw thousands of horses
with black ears. They were all white like the full moon, and they had red heads and
yellow tails. Each horse was remarkable for its striking beauty. The astonished king
glorified Lord Krishna, the performer of the desires of His devotees.
Krishna then asked the king to choose a horse and immediately begin preparing the sacrifice. Then Ugrasena, together with Krishna and Narada, returned to the royal assembly.
With the permission of Sri Krishna, Narada and Tumburu left the palace on their
mission. After that Ugrasena sent a messenger to invite me (Garg Muni) I
immediately went out and soon saw Dvaraka at some distance, not far from Mount
Raivata.
The Gomati River served as a moat, encircling the city, which was surrounded by
various types of flowering trees. The birds in these trees came from Vaikuntha and
chanted the holy names of Lord Krishna. Entering the city, I saw that all the
inhabitants of the city were talking about something. Their houses were golden in
color and there was a festive atmosphere everywhere. There were many temples of
Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and numerous military guards stood at the doors of the
palaces. The roads were paved with silver, and of the 900,000 palaces, 16,000 were
particularly magnificent. Every resident of the city chanted the glories of Lord
Krishna and Lord Balarama.
After looking around the city, I went to the Sudharma assembly hall, which belongs
to Sri Krishna. When I arrived there, Maharaja Ugrasena rose from his throne and
offered me hospitality. Then he washed my feet in the presence of all the Yadavas
and sprinkled this water on his head.
Maharaja Ugrasena said, “O brahmana, I have heard the glories of ashvamedha-yajna
from the mouth of Narada Muni. I would like to perform this sacrifice with your
permission."
Sri Garga Muni replied, “I wholeheartedly approve of your intention. By performing
this sacrifice, you will be glorified in all three worlds. However, I must ask you, who
will protect the sacrificial horse? I know that you have many enemies in this world.
Will you send Pradyumna for this purpose, and when will you begin this sacrifice?"
King Ugrasena seemed to be disturbed in this respect, and in this state he looked
anxiously at Lord Krishna. Then the Lord smiled and, taking the betel nut, said: “All
the Yadavas are endowed with great strength and all are skilled in fighting. Oh
Yadavas, any of you who would like to protect the sacrificial horse, come here and
take this betel nut."
After that, all the Yadava warriors looked at each other in surprise. The betel nut
remained in Krishna's hands for twenty minutes. Finally, Aniruddha, the great
archer, took the betel nut from the hands of Krishna.
Addressing King Ugrasena, Aniruddha said: “O Lord of the Earth, I will protect the
sacrificial horse from your enemies. If I cannot protect the sacrificial horse, then the
sin of a ksatriya will fall on me, which embraces the wife of a brahmana, the wife of
a vaisya or a sudra. I will suffer the consequences of sinning a person who first
accepts a brahmana guru and then rejects him.”
Sri Krishna was pleased with the words of His grandson, so He took his hand with
great love and said, "My dear Aniruddha, to protect this horse for a whole year, you
must come back."
At that time, Siva and Brahma appeared there, and then Indra and all the other
demigods, desiring to see the Supreme Lord, Sri Krishna. The Lord together with
Ugrasena invited them. Then, sitting by Krsna and Balarama, Brahma asked to speak.
Brahma said, “My dear Lord, Your grandson Aniruddha is only a boy. How can he
protect the sacrificial horse from his powerful enemies? I think Pradyumna is more
suitable for this role. Or if not Pradyumna, then Baladeva, or You yourself could
protect the sacrificial horse."
Lord Krishna, smiling, replied, “O Brahma, what can I do? Aniruddha is unshakable
and persistent in this task. He does not listen to Me, and therefore, if you want, you
can try to dissuade him."
Garga Muni said to Vajranabha: “Then Brahma, along with the moon god,
approached Aniruddha. And the amazing thing was that they entered the body of
Aniruddha. This astonished Indra and the other demigods, as well as the Yadavas
and everyone present, O King, your father (Aniruddha) was an expansion of the
Supreme Lord.
Then King Ugrasena retired to the royal chambers and there he saw his wife
Ruchimati sitting on her bed. The queen got up and invited her husband, who told
her about his plans.
King Ugrasena said, "With the permission of Lord Krishna, I have decided to
perform the ashvamedha-yajna, because by this yajna all my desires will be
fulfilled."
Saddened by the loss of her sons, Ruchimati said, “O king, all my wealth is worthless
without my sons. I hope that after performing this sacrifice, I will have many sons. "
Hearing this, the king was saddened and replied: “The desire to have a son always
torments a person's heart. We’re both old now. I advise you to give up such material
desires and instead surrender yourself to the eternal Lord Krishna, who grants
liberation from the bondage of birth and death. "
Ruchimati replied, “You say that after this sacrifice, all desires will be fulfilled. If
possible, I would like to see my lost sons. Remember how Krishna brought back the
deceased son of His teacher."
Sri Garga Muni continued: “Then Ugrasena called me and Lord Krishna, and after
performing the ceremony of worshiping us, he opened his thoughts.
Lord Krishna said, “O king, your sons were killed on the battlefield and therefore
they are now living in paradise. Yet, if you successfully perform this great sacrifice, I
will show you your sons."
The king calmed his queen and returned to the royal assembly. Due to the presence
of the demigods, the king felt uneasy to be seated on a throne in front of them.
However, Lord Krishna took him by the hand and made him sit on the royal throne.
Then all the necessary attributes for the sacrifice were prepared and the sacrificial
arena was built. When everything was ready, Lord Krishna asked His son
Pradyumna to bring a sacrificial horse.
When the horse arrived at the sacrificial arena, I (Garga Muni) initiated the king and queen in the sacrifice process. After that,the king distributed the required charity to the brahmanas and fixed a gold plate on the horse's head, announcing his intention to perform ashvamedha-yajna to the orld. While fixing the gold plate on the horse's head, victorious music sounded,
accompanied by the sound of shells and the exultant exclamations of the great warriors.
While the Vedic mantras were chanted, the sacrificial horse was released to wander around the world. King Ugrasena instructed and inspired Aniruddha while the brahmanas consecrated him to protect the sacrificial horse. All the demigods offered gifts to Aniruddha, and
Lord Krishna, his grandfather, gave him the chakra. Lord Shiva gave Aniruddha a trident, Pradyumna gave him a bow and two quivers with inexhaustible arrows. Uddhava gave him the crown, Varuna gave him fetters,Yamaraj gave Yamadandu, and Visvakarma gave a divine chariot drawn by a thousand horses.
As Aniruddha rode out, the demigods from heaven poured flowers on him, and the women of Dvaraka threw down unpeeled rice. After bowing to all the sages and asking permission from his wives, Aniruddha set off on his journey.
Lord Krishna, Balarama, Ugrasena, Vasudeva and Pradyumna went out to see Aniruddha.
The sacrificial horse roamed the Earth wherever he pleased, and Aniruddha and his
army followed him. For some time, the sacrificial horse roamed freely in different
countries, since all the kings of these countries were well aware of the power of
Krishna and therefore were not inclined to fight with His grandson.
When the horse reached the city of Mahishmati, on the banks of the Narmada River,
the son of King Indranila named Niladvaja saw him while hunting. Fascinated by the
beauty of the horse, which was adorned with the handprints of young girls with
saffron powder and with two chamars around the neck, the prince caught the horse
and read the message on a gold plate.
The proud prince was offended by the words on the golden plate proclaiming King
Ugrasena the lord of all kings. Taking the horse, Niladvaja brought him to his father,
Indranila, who was a great devotee of Lord Siva.
King Indranila said: “Before I voluntarily paid tribute to King Ugrasena for the
Rajasuya yajna. Now I will not remain passive. We have to fight Aniruddha, and I
am sure that Lord Shiva, who is pleased with me, will come and help us."
Sri Garga Muni continued: “When the Yadavas saw that the sacrificial horse had
disappeared, Aniruddha asked Uddhava about it. And Uddhava explained to him that
King Mahishmati had received blessings from Lord Shiva, and therefore there is no
doubt that it was he who stole the horse. So a fierce battle ensued between the
Yadavas and the army of King Indranila. After all of Indranila's sons were killed,
Indranila entered the battle, but was immediately defeated. Feeling humiliated, the
king returned to the capital and sat down to meditate on his adored deity, Lord Shiva,
and Mahadev appeared before him. Learning about everything from the king, Lord
Shiva assured him: “Do not worry. My blessings cannot be false. Neither demons,
nor demigods, nor humans can defeat you. But you should never offend Lord
Krishna, because He is the master of everything. Therefore, go and let the sacrificial
horse go. " Saying this, Lord Shiva disappeared, and the king, obeying his order,
returned the horse and gave them great wealth as a tribute. When Indranila appeared
before Aniruddha and asked about possible service, Krishna's grandson asked him to
accompany the Yadavas and thus help in protecting the sacrificial horse. King Indranila agreed.
While the Yadavas were crossing various countries, the sacrificial horse was
sometimes kidnapped and then released after a fierce battle. Many kings voluntarily
paid tribute, but those who considered themselves great heroes fought. Wandering
the Earth, the horse eventually wandered into the kingdom of women. The beautiful
queen Surupa ruled this land. She occupied the royal throne, since there was not a
single living king left in this kingdom. Whatever man in this country had an intimate
relationship with a woman, he died within a year.
When the women of this country saw the sacrificial horse grazing in the garden, he
charmed them with his beauty, and they immediately reported him to the queen.
After reading the inscription on the golden plaque on the horse's head, Queen Surupa
decided to fight the Yadavas. All the women climbed onto the chariots, saddled
horses, elephants and prepared to shoot arrows at the Yadav army.
When Aniruddha asked about the enemy and learned that an army of women had
come up against them, he was surprised and wanted to know more about their
history. A king named Hemangada told a story that he heard from his ancestor
Yagyavalkya.
In Satya-yuga, a king named Naripala ruled over this province. His queen was called
Mohini. This king was completely captivated by the beauty of his queen, and
enjoyed marital bliss with her for a hundred years, having lost count of time, day and
night. Absorbed in conjugal delights, the king forgot about the affairs of the kingdom
and the welfare of his subjects. As a result, all residents became unhappy, having lost
the royal protection. Seeing all this, Queen Mohini began to administer justice in
accordance with her abilities.
Once the sage Ashtavakra came there to meet the king. When the sage was walking
in the inner apartments of the palace, the king, bewitched by female beauty, laughed
at him for his ugliness. Angry, Ashtavakra Muni cursed the king: “O unfortunate fool
who is overly attached to women! From that day on, only women will rule this
kingdom, since no king will survive. You had better leave this kingdom, because in
this country any man who has sex with a woman will die in the same year. ”
After uttering this curse, Ashtavakra Muni withdrew, and the king became a eunuch.
Realizing the power of the sage and his foolishness, the king repented, left the
kingdom and began to travel from forest to forest, constantly chanting the holy
names of the Lord. As a result, he attained the highest spiritual abode.
Because of this curse, no king wants to rule this country, and therefore women rule it.
While Aniruddha and King Hemangada were talking, an army of women approached
them. Queen Surupa addressed Aniruddha: “O hero, I challenge you to battle. Why
do you hesitate with such a great army? Having defeated you, I will make you my
tame deer. "
Stung and hurt by her words, Aniruddha replied, “O fair-skinned lady, I do not fight
with women. The horse you have caught is wandering by the order of Lord Krishna,
and therefore it should be returned immediately. What can you oppose to Krishna's
desire? "
Hearing his words of wisdom, Surupa remembered her past life and said: “In ancient
times I was an apsara named Mohini. Once, seeing Lord Brahma, I asked him to
unite with me in conjugal intimacy. When he refused, I cursed him and then went to
the Kukudmati River to perform austerities. Pleased with my tapasya, Brahma
appeared before me and offered me blessings. When I asked to become his wife, he
assured me that in a future birth he will become the grandson of Krishna in Dvaraka,
and he will be called Aniruddha, at which time I will rule the kingdom of women. He
said: "Then I will come and receive you as my wife."
Sri Garga Muni continued: Hearing these words, all the Yadavas were astonished.
Then Aniruddha said to Surupa, "O noble woman, go to Dvaraka, and when I return,
I will accept you as my consort." Satisfied with the outcome of events, the queen
dismissed the sacrificial horse.
While the sacrificial horse roamed the Earth, a demon named Bhishana caught him
and hid him in his kingdom of Upa Lanka, located in the sea. Then Aniruddha and
many Yadava warriors sat on the chariot of Kuvera's puspaka and attacked this city
of demons. After a fierce battle, Aniruddha recaptured his horse and returned to earth
in Kuvera's chariot.
After traveling to various countries, when the horse arrived in Avantipura and
entered the garden, Sandipani Muni, the spiritual master of Lord Krishna, decided to
bathe in the lake at that place. He constantly chanted the holy name of Krsna on a
tulasi beads. After a while, when the Yadav soldiers arrived in this garden, they saw
a horse in the possession of Prince Bindu. Aniruddha sent Uddhava to talk to the
prince. Prince Bindu invited Uddhava and assured him that he would show the
Yadavas the highest hospitality. The Yadavas set up camp near Avantipur, and that
night Sandipani Muni came to meet Aniruddha. Aniruddha invited Sandipani Muni
to Dvaraka for a horse sacrifice, and the sage gladly agreed.
Aniruddha spent that night talking about Krishna, asking questions of Sandipani
Muni. The next day sage Sandipani and his son got on the chariot and proceeded to
Dvaraka, where they were happily and hospitably received by Krishna and Balarama.
While the sacrificial horse roamed various countries, a demon named Balvala caught
him and took him to his island Panchandzhanya. Uddhava reported this to
Aniruddha, saying that this island was thirty yojanas from the coast. Then Aniruddha
ordered the Yadavas to build a bridge of arrows across the ocean. While the warriors
fired streams of arrows into the ocean, all sea inhabitants hid in fear in the depths of
the sea.
At that time the sage Narada announced from heaven, "Not a single arrow
crossed the ocean." Hearing his words, the Yadavas lost their pride. Then Aniruddha
took his bow and shot myriads of arrows in a continuous stream. The great sages
from heaven said: "These arrows crossed the ocean and created a house on the shore
of Panchandzhanya island." In response to their words, the other warriors fired their
arrows, and they also crossed the ocean. Thus the Yadavas built a bridge of thirty
yojanas in length, which reached the island of Panchanjanya. This bridge did not
touch the water and hung in the air. Who can describe the inconceivable potency of
the sons and grandsons of Lord Krishna?
The next morning the Yadavas crossed the bridge to the island where the demons
lived. After a long bloody battle, many demons died. Then Balvala entered the battle
with his son Kunandana. When Balwala and Aniruddha met face to face on the
battlefield, they exchanged mocking words. Then Balvala fired one hundred arrows,
which carried Aniruddha along with his chariot and horses high into the sky and
lowered him to the ashram of Kapila. With the disappearance of Aniruddha, the
Yadava army became discouraged. Other sons of Krishna and the great warriors of
the Yadava army attacked Kunandana, but his arrows also lifted them into the sky
and threw them away for several miles.
The demigods in the sky, headed by Indra, became frightened, while the demons
rejoiced. The sage Kapila, seeing Aniruddha lying unconscious on the ground, laid
his hand on his head and returned to consciousness. Then Aniruddha, bowing to the
sage, returned to the city of demons and again entered the battle. With a fierce
onslaught of his arrows, he sent Kunandana's chariot into the sky, which, flying in
the air, made a deafening sound that astounded everyone around. Then Balvala
appeared before Aniruddha and, exchanging stinging speeches with him, used the
illusion of the demon Maya, creating pitch darkness around. In this darkness, no one
could distinguish friend from enemy. A terrible stream of stones and blood fell upon
the Yadav army, forcing them to flee. Then Aniruddha dispelled all the spell of
illusion with his mohanastra.
When the illusion dissipated and the sun shone again, Balvala released the brahmastra, but Aniruddha neutralized her with a reciprocal brahmastra. Then Balvala set in motion another illusion, from which dancing voluptuous women appeared everywhere in seductive erotic poses. At the sight of these illusory women, all the Yadavas became lusty. And then Balvala appeared there and took the lives of many Yadavs.
Aniruddha challenged Balwala, accusing him of using unworthy fighting methods. When Balvala violently attacked Aniruddha, he released the terrible weapon of Yamaraja, Kaladanda, tearing the heart of the insidious demon to shreds. With the death of the demon, all illusion was instantly dispelled.
Meanwhile, Kunandana regained consciousness and stepped onto the chariot. The son
of Krishna, Sunandana, fought with him in a fierce duel. Both of them, wounded by
arrows, were bleeding. Then, after a lengthy exchange of harsh words, Sunandana
fired a sickle-tipped arrow at the demon. However, Kunandana cut this arrow in two
with two arrows. As the back of the arrow fell to the ground, the front flew to the
demon and blew off his head. Seeing the decapitated body lying on the ground, all
the surviving demons began to cry. Then this decapitated body rose from the ground
and proceeded to kill the Yadav soldiers, smashing them with fists and sword. In the
end, Kunandana's decapitated body froze, and so the battle was over to loud,
victorious shouts from the Yadavas.
Balvala and his son were great devotees of Lord Shiva. When Narada Muni informed
Mahadev of their death, Shiva was blinded by an insane rage. Assuming a fiveheaded form, with fifteen eyes, ten arms, a body smeared with ash, with recessed hair, with a garland of skulls and snakes around his neck, Lord Shiva sat on the bull
Nandi and rushed to the battlefield, intending to destroy Aniruddha and all the
Yadavas. Surrounded by ghosts, shaking the earth, Lord Shiva appeared before the
greatly frightened Yadavas. Even Aniruddha trembled with terror.
Then Mahadev ordered the goddess Bhairava to kill Aniruddha, the bull Nandi -
Sunandana, and Karttikeya - Samba. Millions of ghosts, goblins and witches rushed
to devour the Yadava soldiers and their horses. It was an eerie sight as the ghost
women devoured young flesh and blood, dancing and howling with joy on the
battlefield. Some of the ghosts wove garlands from the heads of the slain warriors
and offered them to Lord Shiva.
The son of Krishna, Diptiman, endowed with courage and valor, with his amazing
arrows began to hit the ghosts, causing them unbearable pain and forcing them to
scatter in the air. Aniruddha then began to fight Bhairava and after a long fight he
used weapons that plunged the ghosts into a lethargic sleep on the battlefield. This
infuriated Lord Shiva even more. Jumping onto the back of the Nandi bull, he rushed
to Aniruddha, and along the way, his bull created chaos, scattering the horns of the
enemy soldiers in different directions. The bull wounded Sunandana with a blow to
the chest, from which he fell to the ground and immediately lost his life.
Having witnessed his death, Aniruddha, heartbroken, became inflamed with rage and,
climbing on an elephant, entered into battle with Lord Siva. The demigods in the
heavens trembled in terror, amazed at the fierce battle between the creator of the
universe (Brahma) and the destroyer of the universe (Shiva), which lasted for three
days.
Finally, after constantly changing weapons, Lord Shiva killed the elephant with his
trident and struck Aniruddha, and he fell to the ground unconscious. Seeing this,
Samba left Karttikeya and, presenting himself before Shiva, said: “I heard the Vedas
from the exalted brahmanas. I heard that in The Bhagavatam says, Shiva is the best of the Vaisnavas, that he constantly chants the name of Krsna. But after seeing how Sunandana and Aniruddha fell on the battlefield, I think that glorifying you as a Vaisnava is false.
You killed the son of Krishna, and after that, how can you be called a Vaisnava? " Hearing Samba's reproaches, Lord Shiva was pleased and admitted that he was fighting only to protect his devotees.
Samba then drew a terrifying arrow on his bow and shot it at Mahadev. However,
this arrow did not harm Shiva, just as a garland thrown at an elephant does not cause
him any pain. And a fierce battle broke out between Samba and Mahadev. Watching
this battle, the demigods thought that the world was about to end.
The Yadava warriors, in utter confusion, began chanting the holy names of Lord Krishna.
Realizing the predicament of the Yadavas, Krishna got on His chariot driven by
Daruka and left Dvaraka. In an instant, He appeared on the battlefield.
Seeing Sri Krishna, the Yadavas were filled with great joy. At the sight of his father, Samba
dropped his bow and fell at His lotus feet.
When Lord Shiva saw Shri Krishna come to the battlefield, he became afraid.
Throwing aside his weapon, he approached to the Supreme Lord and said, “O Lord,
please forgive my insolence. I never forget my subordinate position in relation to
You. I am Your part and I can never become equal to You or higher than You. I am
Yours, but You do not belong to me: just like the waves belong to the ocean, but the
ocean never belongs to the waves."
After listening to Shiva, Lord Krishna replied, “What mistake did My son Sunandana
make that you killed him? For what reason did you deprive Aniruddha of the senses?
And why did you come here to fight? "
Lord Shiva said: “O Lord of the universe, O embodiment of compassion, please
protect me, who has lost all shame, and forgive my sins. People suffer only until they
take shelter of Your lotus feet. Kindly allow me to take refuge at You." After uttering
these words, Lord Siva fell at the lotus feet of Sri Krishna with tears in his eyes. The
Lord raised Shiva and said, “O Shiva, all the demigods are protecting their devotees,
and you have not done anything wrong. You always live in My heart, and I live in
yours. In fact, there are almost no differences between us. Your devotees prostrate
themselves before Me, and My devotees prostrate themselves before you. "
After speaking these words, Lord Krishna brought His son Sunandana and with His
nectar glance brought him back to life. Then He removed the trident from the heart
of Aniruddha and brought him to consciousness. Following this, the Lord revived all
the lost Yadavs with His compassionate glance.
Then the demon Balvala rose from the dead and asked: "Where is Aniruddha?" Then Lord Siva pacified him by explaining to him the true position of Sri Krishna. After receiving instructions from Shiva, Balvala bowed down to Lord Krishna. Then he returned the sacrificial horse and paid a rich tribute. After that, the Yadavas returned to land, crossing the bridge of arrows. Krishna returned to Dvaraka, and Shiva and his associates went to Mount Kailash.
The sacrificial horse continued its journey across the Earth. Many kings, hearing
about the defeat of Balvala, refused to fight the Yadavs and voluntarily paid tribute.
After a month the horse reached Vraja-mandala. After crossing the Yamuna, he
entered the Vrindavan forest and stopped under a tamala tree.
The shepherds who were grazing their cows happily approached the horse, clapping
their hands. Sridama tied the horse with ropes, which he used to tie up the cows, and
took him to Nanda's house. Satisfied, Nanda read the message on the horse's head
and informed the shepherds that this horse belongs to King Ugrasena and is under
the protection of Aniruddha.
Desiring to meet with the Yadavas, Nanda, along with Yasoda and the other
residents of Vrindavan, left the village. At this time, the Yadava army arrived there,
and also Krishna arrived there in His chariot.
Nanda Maharaja felt the right side of his body tremble, giving him hope that he would meet his beloved son again. He exclaimed, “O Krishna! Oh Krishna! " When Krishna arrived, He immediately jumped from the chariot and fell at the feet of His father.
Nanda embraced Krishna, washing Him with tears of love. Then Krsna met Sridam and His other friends. Due to the long separation and the feelings that washed over them, no one could utter a word.
Then Krishna appeared before all the inhabitants of Vrindavan in the same form when He left Vrindavan for Mathura. He manifested Himself in the two-handed form of Syamasundara, holding a flute in his hand. After this, Krsna, in the company of His parents, went to Nanda's house. When the Yadavas set up camp on the banks of the Yamuna, Krishna
remained in Nandagram.
In the evening, Radha, who was living in the forest, called for Krishna. When
Krishna came to the bank of the Yamuna, He saw Radhika's abode decorated with
flowering vines. Sri Radha and Her sakhis greeted Krishna with great abundance,
Radharani adorned Herself with expensive clothes and ornaments.
After Krishna left for Dvaraka, Radharani never dressed in rich clothes, did not adorn
Herself, did not enjoy betel nuts, did not eat tasty food, did not sleep on the bed, and
did not even laugh. When Krishna cast His merciful glance at Her, all the pain of
Radha's separation immediately disappeared. Then Radha asked Krishna why He left
Vrindavan. She said that in His absence one moment seemed to Her as the yuga, and
one day seemed to be the life of Brahma.
In response, Krishna consoled Her by saying that there really can be no separation between Them, because He and She are one Soul, divided into two Persons to enjoy transcendental pastimes.
Then Krishna began to play the flute, as He did in childhood. Hearing the sound of
the flute, all the gopis left their homes and ran into the forest to meet Krishna. At that
time, the entire Vrindavan forest was transformed, and every gopi saw that it was
made of precious transcendental stones and filled with beautiful verandas of desire
trees. Inside each veranda, Krishna sat with Radha on a magnificent throne,
surrounded by the gopis. They all shone with unique beauty, and the whole
atmosphere was so amazing that it defies description. Radha and Krishna sat
surrounded by the gopis who served Him lovingly.
Then Krsna expanded Himself that many forms, as there were gopis, and by playing
the flute began the rasa-lila festival. However, after some time, the gopis became
proud of their great fortune and began to say what was not true.
The gopis of Vrindavan said, “One day Krishna left us and went to Mathura in search
of charming girls. When He could not find the young beauties there, He went to
Dvaraka. In His endless pursuit of pleasures with women, He married Rukmini, the
daughter of King Bhismaka, but in spite of this, He remained dissatisfied. Then He
married 16,000 girls, but none of them could satisfy His heart. Finally, He repented
and returned to Vrindavan. Only now He is happy, contemplating our unsurpassed
beauty. Therefore, it became clear to us that we are the most beautiful and worthy
girls in all the worlds. Only we are able to completely subdue Krishna! "
Sri Garga Muni said, “In response to these words, Krishna suddenly disappeared,
taking Radha with Him. Thereafter, Krishna walked with Radha in the forest of
Vrindavan while the gopis frantically searched for Him. When Krishna heard the
sound of their anklets approaching, He told Radha that the gopis must be looking for
Them. And They hid from the gopis. Radha and Krishna walked in all twelve forests
of Vraja. After long walks, Radha was tired. Therefore She asked Krsna to carry Her.
Krishna said, "Okay, sit on My shoulders." However, having said this, He suddenly
disappeared.
After some time, the gopis found Radha and together they began to grieve over their
failure, repenting of their pride. Yet Krishna again appeared before them, and the rasa
dance continued. In the morning Krishna returned to Nanda's palace, Radha returned
to Vrishabhanu's palace, and the gopis returned to their homes. Due to the illusion of
Yogamaya, none of the gopas could understand that their wives had been absent all
night.
In this way, Krishna lived in Vrindavan for eight days. Then, when Yasoda saw Him
preparing to leave, her heart was again pierced by the pain of the impending
separation. Krishna assured her that he would return to Vrindavan after the
ashvamedha-yajna. Also, all the inhabitants of Vrindavan were plunged into sorrow
upon learning that Krishna was leaving for Dvaraka. But the Lord met with each of
them and gave assurances of His return.
After that, the sacrificial horse again embarked on a journey and after a while
reached the limits of Hastinapura, the abode of the Kauravas. Duryodhana, the king
of the Kauravas, was hunting in the forest at that time, and when he saw the horse, he
joyfully captured him. Karna, Bhishma, Kripacharya, Dronacharya and others
accompanied the Kaurava king. After reading the message on the horse's head, the
Kauravas laughed at the pride of the Yadavs and decided to fight.
The Kauravas gathered a myriad army and soon met face to face with the Yadavas on
the battlefield. When the battle began, Bhishma went out to fight against Samba.
With a strong blow from his club, Bhishma knocked Samba to the ground, knocking
him out of consciousness. Also, Satyaki fought with Duryodhana, he broke the
chariot of Duryodhana and wounded him so that he fainted. Then after some time,
Krishna, along with Aniruddha, arrived with another part of the Yadava army.
When they entered the battle, Duryodhana was frightened and, fleeing from the
battlefield, fled to Hastinapura. Seeing this, the other Kauravas followed him, and
thus the Yadavas were victorious.
When the blind King Dhrtarastra heard about the incident, he asked Vidura for
advice on what to do in such a situation. As expected, Vidura advised that the
sacrificial horse should be returned and Lord Krishna should be worshiped. Then the
Kauravas walked to the Yadavas, bringing with them paraphernalia for worshiping
the Lord, wanting to receive darshan of Krishna. Each of the great warriors of the
Kauravas glorified and offered respect to Krishna. Thus the conflict between the
Kauravas and the Yadavas was settled, and the sacrificial horse was returned to the
Yadavas.
Hearing about the defeat of the Kauravas, no king dared to capture the sacrificial
horse. A whole year passed in this way. Feeling anxious, Aniruddha approached
Uddhava and expressed his concerns to him.
Aniruddha said, “King Ugrasena has to perform ashvamedha-yajna in the month of
Caitra, there are only a few days left. What should I do?"
Uddhava replied, "There is no one left to oppose you on this earth except the
demigods in the sky, so return to Dvaraka."
Addressing the sacrificial horse, Aniruddha said, “O king of horses, if there is
anyone who can oppose us, then find that person. If not, then return to Dvaraka."
Hearing these words, the sacrificial horse rushed back to Dvaraka.
Indra went incognito to Earth in search of a sacrificial horse. Even if Indra and the
other demigods are under the control of the illusory energy, then what about ordinary
people? However, seeing the myriad army and strength of the Yadavas, who were
under the protection of Krishna, Indra lost all hope and returned to his heavenly
abode.
Having reached the borders of Dvaraka, Aniruddha sent Uddhava to inform Ugrasena
of the return of the sacrificial horse. Then King Ugrasena and other senior Yadavas
came out to greet Lord Krishna and His grandson Aniruddha. As Sri Krishna,
Aniruddha and the other heroes of Yadava entered Dvaraka, they were greeted by the
whole city.
During the ashvamedha yajna, all the residents of Vrindavan were present, invited by
Krishna. King Dhrtarastra was also present there along with his sons and the sons of
Pandu. All the great sages arrived there, and the Earth Goddess also appeared there in
the form of a cow. The Ganges and all other holy places arrived there in personified
forms,
Srila Vyasadeva, the chief priest, informed Ugrasena that the sixty-four four
(husbands and wives) should go to the river Gomati and fetch water.
Then Aditi with Kashyapa, Arundhati with Vasishta, Kripi with Drona, Anasuya with Atri, Rukmini with Krishna, Revati with Balarama, Mayavati with Pradyumna, Usha with
Aniruddha, Subhadra with Arjuna and Lakshmana with Samba went there.
When Narada saw Krishna walking with Rukmini, he decided to provoke a quarrel.
Narada went to Satyabhama. Finding her in a secluded place, he informed her that
Krishna had neglected her by going with Rukmini to fetch water. After speaking
many cunning words, Narada aroused Satyabhama's anger and made her cry.
Krishna understood another trick of Narada and, expanding Himself in many forms,
in one of them went to Satyabhama. Coming to Satyabhama, Krishna explained to
her that He had asked Balarama to take His place so that He could come and dine
with her. Seeing that Satyabhama had calmed down, the frustrated Narada went to
the Jambavati palace and repeated the same. Hearing Narada's words, stirring up
jealousy, Jambavati smiled and informed him that Krishna had already dined with
her and was now resting. Puzzled, Narada went to Mitravinda and again spoke words
that inflame envy. In response, Mitravinda informed Narada that Krishna was in the
next room and was playing with His grandson.
So Narada went from one palace of Krsna to another, visiting all the queens of
Krsna, and found that Krsna was already there. Feeling great disappointment, Narada
decided to go to the gopis. When he approached Radha, he was amazed to see
Krishna playing dice with Her and the sakhis.
When Narada decided to visit the devotees of Krishna, the Lord received him
hospitably. After performing a rite of worship for the sage, Lord said in a soft voice,
“O brahmana, what are you so much concerned about? I saw you in each of My
palaces. Therefore I have taken many forms. Because you are a brahmana, I cannot
punish you, but still, I want to ask you. Just return to the sacrifice and enjoy the
celebration. I am the Lord of everything, but still, I worship the brahmanas. Be sure
that at the sacrifice you will receive all the unthinkable benefits."
Sri Garga Muni continued, “Thus Narada became pleased and returned to the arena
of sacrifice. Meanwhile, Krishna and Rukmini and other consorts came to the Gomati
River. Having filled the vessels, they returned to the sacrificial arena and offered
water to King Ugrasen.
At this great sacrifice, Bhima was in charge of the kitchen, Arjuna met the guests, Duryodhana was the treasurer, and Karna gave alms.
When Ugrasena asked Krishna, “What service would He like to take upon Himself?”, The
Lord replied, “In Indraprastha I washed the feet of the brahmanas. Therefore, I want
to do the same here. "
Then twenty thousand brahmanas proceeded to perform the sacrifice. Streams of
ghee, the thickness of an elephant's trunk, poured into the sacrificial fire.
Agni then turned to Ugrasena: "Now you must give me a sacrificial horse."
In response to these words, Ugrasena told the horse: “Did you hear what Agni said?
Even after consuming a lot of ghee, the fire demigod wants to swallow you."
After these words, the contented horse looked at Krishna and nodded his head
approvingly.
Understanding the horse's intention, Srila Vyasadeva told Baladeva, “Take Your sword and chop off the horse's head for the satisfaction of Agni. By offering this horse to the fire, Agni will be satisfied."
Then Balarama cut off the horse's head, which rose into the sky and was swallowed
up by the sun. This miracle amazed everyone.
Lord Krishna then pierced the heart of the horse with a trident, from which streams of
flowers emanated. The spiritual spark left the horse's body and entered the body of
Lord Krishna. After that, the horse's body turned into crushed camphor, which
crumbled to the ground. This dust resembled the ashes covering the body of Lord
Shiva. The aroma of this camphor spread throughout Dvaraka.
And then Srila Vyasadeva solemnly announced to King Ugrasena: "Your sacrifice
has ended successfully!"
Following this, this camphor was offered to the sacrificial fire. At the end of the
sacrifice, King Ugrasena took a ritual bath with his wife. He then offered a
sumptuous feast to all the guests and generously distributed alms. In the end, the
inhabitants of Vrindavan, having received gifts of love from Krishna, returned home,
like all the invited sages.
Sri Krishna then summoned Kamsa and the other nine murdered sons of Ugrasena.
They all came from Vaikuntha and appeared before their father, who was sitting with
his wife Ruchimati. Each of them had four arms, resembling Lord Vishnu, and held
in their hands a conch, disc, club and lotus. Seeing Ugrasena and his queen, Kamsa
and his brothers returned to Vaikuntha.
Thereafter, at the request of King Ugrasena, Srila Vyasadeva recited Krishnasahasra-stotra. Hearing this amazing stotra, Ugrasena performed a ceremony of worship of the great sage. Krishna then went to Mithila to see His devotees, King Bahulashva and Srutadeva, and returned to Dvaraka again.
At that time the Pandavas were already living in exile. Despite the fact that Krishna
personally went to Hastinapura asking for peace, war was inevitable. When Krishna
took a vow not to fight in battle, Balarama went on a pilgrimage to the holy places to
avoid conflict.
After the victory of the Pandavas at the Battle of Kuruksetra, Maharaja Yudhisthira
performed the ashvamedha-yajna. After that, in Dvaraka, the Yadavas were cursed,
and the cause of their death was a quarrel between them, where they killed each
other.
At that time Krsna was sitting under a banyan tree when Uddhava came to
Him and took shelter of His feet. Balarama returned to His eternal abode. Then
Krishna went to Vrindavan and informed all the inhabitants of Vrindavan that they
should return to Goloka, the spiritual world, because very soon the age of Kali will
appear, where all the good qualities of people will disappear and the unfavorable
influence of this age will come.
While Krishna was talking with the inhabitants of Vrindavan, a huge chariot five
yojanas in length appeared there, descending from Goloka. This chariot had two
thousand wheels and was drawn by a thousand horses. Then Lord Vishnu manifested
from the body of Krsna along with Lakshmi. They got on the chariot and went to the
ocean of milk. Krishna and Radha ascended this divine chariot, while all the
inhabitants of Vraja put on their original forms, and then also ascended it. Thus, led
by Lord Krishna, they returned to the eternal spiritual abode of Goloka Vrindavan.
Meanwhile, Arjuna performed a funeral ceremony for all the Yadavas. He freed
himself from grief by remembering the instructions of Krsna, which He gave him in
the Bhagavad-gita.
Then Yudhishthira left the kingdom with his brothers and reached the highest destination. After the departure of Lord Krishna, all of Dvaraka, along with Mount Raivata, sank into the ocean.
King Vajranabha asked, “O sage, Krsna is beyond material nature. Why does He
have a dark body color? "
Sri Garga Muni said, "The color of the conjugal rasa is dark, and Krsna is the Lord of
this rasa."
King Vajranabha said, "Kali-yuga is coming soon, please tell me about this terrible age."
Sri Garga Muni said, “In the age of Kali, Lord Jagannatha will remain on earth for
ten thousand years. The Ganges will flow on Earth for five thousand years. In this
age of Kali, women will become independent and act according to their desires.
Sinful people will hunt for prostitutes, for other people's wives and other people's
wealth. All people will belong to one varna - sudras."
King Vajranabha asked, "How can people in this age of degradation be liberated?"
Sri Garga Muni replied, “Vamana, Brahma, Sesha and Sanaka-kumara will establish
dharma in this age at the request of Lord Vishnu, assuming the form of brahmanas.
From the expansion of Vamana, Vishnuswamy will appear, from the expansion of
Sesha - Ramanuja, from the expansion of Sanaka-kumar - Nimbarka, and from the
expansion of Brahma - Madhvacarya. They will establish their sampradayas.
What was achieved in Satya-yuga through meditation, in Treta-yuga - through performing
sacrifices, in Dvapara-yuga - through worship in the temple, in Kali-yuga people will
be able to attain the highest benefit through chanting the holy name of Lord Krishna.
King Vajranabha asked, “O sage, which of all gates is the best? Which of all the holy
tirthas is the highest? And who is the greatest of all gods? "
Sri Garga Muni replied, “Ekadashi-vrata is the best, Ganga is the highest of all holy
tirthas, and Lord Krishna is the greatest of all. He is the Original Supreme Personality of Godhead.
A guru who does not inspire his disciples to serve Lord Krishna with devotion is a
guru in name only. The same goes for a father, friend, king, or brother. Those who
are very proud of their talents, scholarship, wealth, possessions and abilities, and who
consider the beauty of their wife and children to be eternal, and are not engaged in
the devotional service of the Lord, are like the living dead.
O king, the essence of everything I have told you is the pastimes of the Supreme
Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna. Constantly listening to these stories, a person
acquires all the desired goals of life."
Sri Suta Goswami said: “King Vajranabha, hearing the words of sage Garga, felt
deep satisfaction. With great devotion, he fixed his mind on the lotus feet of the Lord
and offered the sage immense wealth in gratitude. Having received this dakshina,
Garga Muni bade farewell to the king and left. Then he distributed all this wealth to
the brahmanas.
After this, King Vajranabha performed the ashvamedha-yajna, as advised by Garga
Muni, and installed the Kesava Deity in Mathura, Harideva in Govardhana, and
Govinda in Vrindavan.
After some time, Uddhava went to King Vajranabha and told him the Srimad-Bhagavatam. Then Vajranabha handed over the reins of government to his son Pratibahu, and, together with Uddhava on the divine chariot, went to the spiritual world, to Goloka Vrindavan. Pratibahu ruled the southern part of Mathura, while Janamenjaya ruled the northern part."
In conclusion, Sri Suta Goswami said: “As the Ganga is the most holy of all rivers, as
Sri Krishna is the Supreme Lord, as Prayag is the king of holy places, so Gargasamhita is the best of all Samhitas. Just as one gets satisfaction by hearing SrimadBhagavatam, so he gets spiritual satisfaction by hearing Sri Garga-samhita.
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