In a time long ago, in the ancient land of Bharata, there lived a powerful demon king named Hiranyakashipu. He was feared by all, for he had received boons from Lord Brahma himself, making him virtually invincible. With his newfound powers, Hiranyakashipu declared himself the ruler of the universe and demanded that everyone worship him as their supreme deity.
Hiranyakashipu had a wife named Kayadu, who was virtuous and pious despite being married to such a tyrant. One day, while she was pregnant, sage Narada visited her and imparted divine teachings about Lord Vishnu. Kayadu listened attentively, and the teachings resonated deeply within her unborn child.
Soon, Kayadu gave birth to a son whom they named Prahlad. From a very young age, Prahlad was different from other demon children. He was gentle, compassionate, and filled with love for Lord Vishnu. As he grew older, Prahlad spent his days chanting the name of Vishnu, meditating upon his divine qualities, and teaching other children about the greatness of the Supreme Lord.
The Wrath of Hiranyakashipu
Hiranyakashipu, however, was displeased with his son's behavior. He wanted Prahlad to follow in his footsteps and worship him instead of Vishnu. One day, he called Prahlad to his court and spoke to him sternly.
"Prahlad, why do you chant the name of Vishnu? He is our enemy! You must worship me, your father, as the only god," Hiranyakashipu commanded.
But Prahlad, with unwavering faith, replied, "O father, Vishnu is the protector of the universe. He is the source of all creation and the embodiment of truth and righteousness. I cannot worship you, for you are filled with arrogance and hatred."
Enraged by Prahlad's defiance, Hiranyakashipu decided to teach his son a lesson. He ordered his soldiers to throw Prahlad off cliffs, but each time, Lord Vishnu's divine presence protected the boy, and he remained unharmed.
Lord Vishnu's Protection
Frustrated by his failed attempts, Hiranyakashipu turned to his sister Holika, who had a boon to remain unscathed by fire. Together, they devised a plan to kill Prahlad. Holika took Prahlad on her lap and entered a blazing fire. But to everyone's amazement, it was Holika who perished in the fire, while Prahlad emerged unscathed, protected by Lord Vishnu's grace.
Despite witnessing these miracles, Hiranyakashipu's heart remained filled with hatred and pride. He challenged Prahlad once again, "Tell me, where is your Vishnu? Is he hiding in this pillar? Show me!"
With innocent faith and trust in Lord Vishnu, Prahlad pointed towards a sturdy pillar in the palace. Enraged, Hiranyakashipu struck the pillar with his mace. Suddenly, with a thunderous roar, the pillar split open, and out emerged Lord Vishnu in his fierce Narasimha avatar – half-man, half-lion.
The Victory of Narasimha
Narasimha grabbed Hiranyakashipu, placing him on his lap at dusk. He tore apart Hiranyakashipu's body with his claws, thus fulfilling the boon granted by Lord Brahma — not man nor beast, indoors nor outdoors, day nor night. With this divine act, Narasimha rid the world of the tyrant Hiranyakashipu and restored righteousness.
Prahlad's Legacy
Prahlad, now freed from his father's tyranny, bowed before Lord Narasimha with humility and gratitude. The Supreme Lord blessed Prahlad, granting him eternal protection and wisdom. Prahlad became a wise and just ruler, known for his compassion and devotion to Vishnu.
The story of Prahlad teaches us the power of faith, devotion, and righteousness. It shows how true devotion to a higher power can overcome all obstacles, no matter how powerful the adversary. Prahlad's unwavering faith in Lord Vishnu and his steadfastness in the face of adversity inspire generations to uphold goodness, truth, and compassion in their lives.
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