Seven secrets of Vishnu by Pattanaik Devdutt

Author:Pattanaik, Devdutt [PATTANAIK, DEVDUTT]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Westland Publishing
Published: 2012-05-21T21:00:00+00:00

Image of Vaman from a step-well in Patan, Gujarat

Hiranayaksha uses strength to overcome his discontent and become all-powerful. Hiranakashipu uses cunning. The Asuras who follow, Virochan and Bali, use generosity to win the affection of subjects to achieve the same end. While Hiranayaksha and Hiranakashipu are self-absorbed, Virochan and Bali are concerned about others. This indicates growth. Unlike Hiranayaksha and Hiranakashipu who exclude others, Virochan and Bali include others. Though Asuras, they are revered in the scriptures.

But still, the focus of Virochan and Bali remains ‘what I have’ rather than ‘what I am’. They feel that happiness comes when material needs are met. They fail to realise that as long as man is in Maya, material needs can never be fully satisfied. Contentment comes only when material growth is accompanied by spiritual growth.

Virochan is Prahalad’s son. And like all stories of Asuras, he becomes very powerful until Vishnu comes to him in the form of Mohini and secures a gift from him. ‘Whatever you wish,’ says Virochan. Mohini immediately asks him for his head. Virochan, true to his word, severs his neck, to the delight of the Devas.

Virochan’s son, Bali, becomes more powerful than any other Asura before him. And like his father, he is very generous. This makes Bali a very popular Asura. In his realm there is prosperity everywhere. His fame spreads far and wide and in time eclipses even the glory of the Devas. Humans turn to Bali with reverence and eventually even Sachi leaves Indra’s side to sit beside the wise and noble Bali. So great is Bali that in his kingdom everything is perfect; all needs are satisfied and all wants are met; there is no disease or death. People conclude that Bali must be God. Even Bali comes to believe that he is God, after all he can give everyone whatever they desire.

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