Mythos and Mystique

  Ravana, the mighty king of Lanka, is one of the most fascinating and complex characters in Hindu mythology. Known for his unparalleled intellect, musical prowess, and devotion to Lord Shiva, he was also a feared warrior and a formidable adversary. But who was Ravana in his previous birth, and how did he come to be reborn as the ten-headed demon king? This story finds its roots in ancient scriptures, primarily the Vishnu Purana , Shiva Purana , and the Ramayana , which shed light on the karmic cycle that led to Ravana’s incarnation. It is a tale of great sages, curses, and divine intervention—woven together in a tapestry of lessons about karma and dharma. The Story Begins: The Gatekeepers of Vaikuntha Long ago, in the celestial abode of Vaikuntha, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, resided with his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. Vaikuntha was a realm of supreme bliss, where no sorrow or suffering could enter. Standing guard at the gates of this divine abode were two of Lord Vi...

  Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is celebrated as a divine hero in Hindu mythology. His life, as described in texts like the Mahabharata , Srimad Bhagavatam , and other Puranas, is filled with divine exploits and teachings. Among the many fascinating tales associated with him is the story of his 16,108 wives, which reflects his boundless compassion, strength, and divinity. The Ashta-Bharyas: Krishna’s Eight Principal Queens The Ashta-Bharyas, or eight chief queens, were: Rukmini : The princess of Vidarbha and Krishna's first queen, Rukmini’s story is one of love and devotion. She fell in love with Krishna after hearing about his virtues. Despite her family’s arrangement for her marriage to Shishupala, Rukmini sent a secret message to Krishna, begging him to rescue her. On the day of her wedding, Krishna abducted Rukmini in a chariot, defeating her brother Rukmi and other challengers, and took her as his bride. Satyabhama : Known for her fierce personality and ...

  The story of Daku Ratnakar’s transformation into Maharishi Valmiki is a tale of redemption, spiritual awakening, and the boundless potential for change. It is a narrative that illustrates how even the most hardened individuals can find a path to righteousness through introspection, divine intervention, and relentless pursuit of truth. This journey, steeped in legend and devotion, begins with the life of a notorious dacoit and culminates in the creation of one of the greatest epics of all time, the Ramayana . Early Life of Ratnakar Ratnakar was born into a humble family in a small village. Though details of his early life vary across accounts, most agree that he belonged to a poor household. As a child, Ratnakar showed a keen intelligence and natural curiosity, but his family’s dire circumstances forced him to take on responsibilities beyond his years. The harsh realities of life drove him down a dark path, eventually leading him to abandon any moral compass. Over time, Ratnakar b...

  The Ramayana , one of the most revered and ancient epics of India, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. It narrates the life, virtues, and trials of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu, offering timeless lessons on dharma (righteousness), devotion, and the complexities of human relationships. Written in Sanskrit, the Ramayana transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, finding adaptations and interpretations across Asia and the world. But who authored this monumental work, and why was it written? To answer these questions, we must delve into the life and inspiration of its creator, Maharishi Valmiki , and explore the cultural and spiritual context that gave rise to this epic. The Life of Maharishi Valmiki Maharishi Valmiki, regarded as the Adi Kavi or "First Poet," is credited with composing the Ramayana. His life is as intriguing as the epic itself. Born as Ratnakar, Valmiki’s early life was marked by strife and wrongdoing. According to legend, he was a highwa...