lessons from king parikshit life biography

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

the story of parikshit blog

After the great Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas faced tragedy, betrayal, and the looming shadow of Kali Yuga. Amidst this turmoil, Krishna saved the unborn Parikshit, ensuring the survival of the Pandava lineage. This story unravels the end of an era, the rise of a virtuous king, and the inevitable cycle of life and destiny. Dive in to witness how divine intervention shaped the fate of the world. Lessons from King Parikshit’s Life

Soot was narrating -

"The sleeping children of the Pandavas were killed by Ashwatthama. Ashwatthama fought with Arjuna. To protect himself, Ashwatthama released the Brahmastra, but Arjuna used his own Brahmastra to neutralize both. Arjuna captured him. As a disciple and a Brahmin, Arjuna was initially planning to release him out of mercy. But Draupadi, who had become childless, insisted that he should be punished and dishonored. Krishna, however, advised Arjuna not to kill him. Bhima, on the other hand, wanted Ashwatthama to be killed. Ashwatthama had a divine jewel on his head. Arjuna, after taking the jewel, released him.

King Parikshit

This incident took place after the great battle. Abhimanyu had attained martyrdom in battle. Uttara, his wife, was devastated. All the descendants of the Pandavas were dead. Krishna, along with Satyaki and Uddhava, was preparing to leave for Dwaraka.

lessons from king parikshits life

At that moment, Uttara rushed towards them, crying for help, "O Lord, something glowing like the sun is approaching me. It will destroy me and my unborn child, the last hope of the Pandava lineage. Please protect us!"

"Lord! Please protect my unborn child!" Her expression was full of terror, her eyes wide open. Krishna immediately realized that this was Ashwatthama's attack.

Arjuna, out of mercy, had spared Ashwatthama earlier, but the Brahmastra was still aimed at Uttara's womb. Krishna, in a subtle form, circled Uttara’s womb with Sudarshan Chakra, and the Brahmastra dissolved into the chakra. But who was in Uttara's womb?

The sages Shounak and others asked Soot to tell the story further. Soot, with a smile, continued:

"While in the womb, Uttara had seen a divine figure, a glowing, small, dark-skinned man dressed in yellow robes, holding a spinning wheel in his right hand. This vision left a lasting impression on the child. In due course, Uttara gave birth to a son.

The astrologers predicted that he would be a great, virtuous king, a universal monarch. Since he had seen Krishna in the womb, his name became Parikshit (the one who saw fully).

Dharmaraj Yudhishthir, overjoyed to see such a lucky and virtuous grandson, was filled with happiness.

Due to the violence of the Pandavas, Yudhishthir’s heart was heavy. He performed three Ashwamedha Yajnas to relieve his conscience. Krishna himself was present during the rituals. Afterward, Krishna, along with Arjuna, left for Dwaraka.

Vidura, on a pilgrimage, met Uddhava. After talking about devotion to Lord Krishna, he went to Maitrey Rishi to listen to spiritual knowledge.

Vidura returned to Hastinapur, where Dharmaraj inquired about his travels and the fate of the Yadavas. Vidura explained everything, but he did not mention the destruction of the Yadava clan, as Dharmaraj was already grieving the loss of Krishna and his family.

Due to the influence of Kali Yuga, Vidura no longer wished to live. He sought permission from Dhritarashtra to leave Hastinapur. Vidura persuaded Dhritarashtra to leave with Gandhari, and they departed secretly one night.

The next day, Dharmaraj went to the royal palace to offer his respects, but Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, and Vidura were no longer there. Sanjay, with tears in his eyes, informed him that they had left for a pilgrimage.

Dharmaraj, deeply moved, reflected on the passing of his family and the teachings they had shared. Narada, the divine sage, appeared to console him, urging him not to mourn, as separation and death are inevitable for all.

Time passed, and Arjuna, who had gone to Dwaraka, did not return for several months. Dharmaraj grew anxious. He feared that Krishna’s divine work had ended, and that Arjuna might have met with some misfortune. He spoke to Bhima, Nakul, and Sahadeva, expressing his worries.

One day, a messenger arrived, announcing Arjuna’s return. As Arjuna entered, his physical appearance was disheveled, and his presence reflected great sorrow.

Dharmaraj eagerly asked, "What happened to Krishna? How is he?"

Arjuna, with a heavy heart, replied, "Maharaj, Krishna and I are no longer together. He has departed, and with him, our strength, our leader, our friend, and our guide are all gone. Now there is only darkness."

As Arjuna recounted the end of Krishna's life, how the Yadava clan destroyed themselves, and how Krishna met his death through a hunter's arrow, the sorrow of the Pandavas deepened.

The Pandavas, along with Draupadi, decided to renounce their kingdom and embark on a journey to the north. Their kingdom, once blessed by Krishna, was now abandoned. They traveled, step by step, towards their final destination, where they would seek spiritual liberation and renounce the material world.

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Along the way, they encountered various divine signs and symbols, representing the fading of the divine age and the rise of Kali Yuga. Parikshit, aware of his responsibility, continued to rule with wisdom, protecting his people, and following the path of righteousness.

KaliYuga and king Parikshi

This is the story of Parikshit and the end of the Yadava and Pandava dynasties. It is a reminder of the transient nature of life, the divine purpose, and the inevitable journey of every soul."

Vyasa Deep Distress : Krishna Consolation

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

Vyasa Distress: The Story From The Srimad Bhagavad Gita

After compiling the Vedas and various sacred texts, the revered sage Vyasa found himself grappling with a deep sense of inner turmoil. Despite possessing unparalleled knowledge, he felt disconnected from the true essence of life. He was troubled by the thought that, even after sharing so much wisdom with the world, people still seemed unable to grasp its deeper meaning.In search of peace, Vyasa turned to Lord Krishna. With boundless compassion, Krishna reassured him that true wisdom lies not just in words, but in the lived experience of those teachings and the guidance they offer. Krishna's comforting words lifted Vyasa's spirits, and through his divine counsel, Vyasa was able to rediscover his spiritual path and find a renewed sense of purpose in life.

Vyasa Deep Distress : Krishna Consolation

Naimisharanya! The word "Naimisha" holds profound meaning. "Nimisha" refers to the blink of an eye or that brief moment of time. Thus, "Naimisha" symbolizes something that exists only for an instant, much like the ephemeral nature of this world represented as a forest. But let that be. In ancient times, there were special forests conducive for sages’ penance, such as Badrikashram and Naimisharanya, frequently mentioned in the Puranas.

In this sacred Naimisharanya, Sage Shaunaka lived with several other sages. Once, they conducted a great yajna (sacrificial ritual) with the resolve to attain the divine. At that time, Sage Suta, a wise and enlightened being, arrived there. Shaunaka inquired of him, "Suta, you are knowledgeable in dharma. What is the ultimate means for the liberation and welfare of all beings? Why did Lord Krishna descend upon Earth? After His departure, what remains the basis of dharma? How many incarnations of the Lord have taken place, and what are their purposes? Please tell us in detail."

Suta replied, "Indeed! The ultimate goal is union with the Lord. The means to attain this is devotion imbued with knowledge and renunciation. One should engage in hearing, singing, meditating upon, and worshiping Lord Krishna. Through faith and trust, the mind naturally inclines toward God. By listening to the Bhagavata, or the tales of Krishna, impure tendencies are eradicated, devotion becomes steadfast, attachment ceases, and the essence of the Divine is revealed, which can only be truly understood through experience.

"Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas—the three gunas, as well as creation, sustenance, and destruction—are all His play. Vishnu, Brahma, and Rudra are His manifestations. The Vedas, yajnas, and all forms of penance aim to realize Him. He is the ultimate goal of every dharma. Maya and the three gunas are His divine play. He is both the creator and the supreme destination."

Sage Suta continued to expound on the divine form of the Lord, describing Him as the "Purusha" or the Cosmic Being responsible for creating all realms. From Him arose the elements, senses, and mind, culminating in sixteen aspects. The seventeenth is the Brahman form of Krishna Himself. The cosmic ocean, representing the primordial matter, is His origin, where He resides in yoga-nidra (cosmic sleep). From His navel emerged a radiant lotus, where Brahma, the creator, manifested.

"The incarnations of the Lord are many," Suta continued. "During the waves of creation, various manifestations arise. The first was the Kumaras—Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana, and Sanatkumara—born through the mind of Narayana. They represent the essence of renunciation and the path of self-realization.

"The next was the Varaha incarnation. Then came Narada, who himself is a form of the Lord. Nara and Narayana, the twin sages, followed. Kapila, Dattatreya, and Yajna were subsequent manifestations. Lord Rishabha and King Prithu were among the later avatars. Matsya (the fish incarnation) was not the first but the tenth. Following this were Kurma, Dhanvantari, Mohini, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, and Vyasa. The eighteenth incarnation was Lord Rama, the nineteenth was Balarama, and the twentieth was Lord Krishna."

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"In the future, the Kalki incarnation will occur in Shambhala village, born to a Brahmin named Vishnuyasha, to restore dharma and establish righteousness. But these are matters for another time."

Suta continued, "Beyond this physical body lies a subtle, unseen form where the Divine resides. This unmanifest form transcends birth and death, liberating the soul from the cycle of karma and reincarnation. Through the Lord’s grace, one attains liberation and becomes one with His eternal form, free from birth and death. He creates and dissolves the universe as His divine play."

Sage Shaunaka then asked, "How did King Parikshit and Sage Shuka come together? Why did Shuka narrate the Bhagavata to him? What was Parikshit’s birth and role? Please narrate everything."

Suta began recounting, "In the Dvapara Yuga, Sage Vyasa was born. He compiled the Vedas and divided them into four parts. For the welfare of humanity, he composed the Puranas and the Mahabharata. Despite creating these monumental works, he found no peace or fulfillment in his heart.

"During this time of despondency, Sage Narada visited him.

"'Why are you disheartened, O Vyasa?' Narada asked. 'You have composed Puranas, propagated the worship of deities, and authored the Mahabharata, which contains the teachings of the Gita. Yet you seem dissatisfied. What troubles you?'

"Vyasa admitted, 'You are correct, Narada. Despite all my efforts, I feel incomplete. My heart is restless. Please guide me.'

"Narada advised, 'Have you sung the glories of Lord Krishna in their entirety? Only by fully immersing in the divine tales of Krishna and the devotees can one attain peace. The essence of devotion is in singing the Lord's pastimes.'

"Narada then recounted his own story from a previous birth, where he was born as the son of a maidservant. Serving sages during the Chaturmasya, he imbibed their wisdom and developed unshakable devotion to Lord Krishna. Upon the death of his mother, he renounced the world, wandering into forests and meditating upon the Lord. This led to a divine vision of Krishna, who blessed him but also explained that full realization would come only in the next birth. Since then, Narada has wandered the three worlds, chanting the name of Narayana."

Inspired by Narada’s words, Vyasa composed the Bhagavata Purana, dedicating it to the pastimes of Lord Krishna. He imparted this divine knowledge to his son Shuka, who, though detached from the world, was captivated by Krishna’s enchanting stories.

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Thus, the Bhagavata Purana became the medium through which divine truths were revealed. Suta concluded, "Next, I will narrate the birth of King Parikshit and how he attained liberation through the Bhagavata."

Gokarna story – A Sacred Story".

          

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

Gokarna and Dundikaara: A Profound Journey from Sin to Liberation

The timeless tale of Gokarna and Dundikaara from the Bhagavata Purana beautifully illustrates the power of devotion, righteousness, and redemption. Gokarna, a devout soul committed to dharma, stood in stark contrast to his brother Dundikaara, whose sinful life led to his tragic end in a ghostly state (preta yoni). Striving to free his brother’s tormented soul, Gokarna initiated a sacred recitation of the Shrimad Bhagavata Purana. Over seven days of heartfelt discourse, the divine vibrations purified Dundikaara’s spirit, granting him peace and liberation, ultimately leading him to the celestial realms.This inspiring story serves as a profound reminder of how devotion, spiritual practices, and righteous living can guide us toward inner peace and eternal freedom. It underscores the transformative power of sacred scriptures and the importance of living a life aligned with virtue and responsibility.

The Tale of Atmadev and Dhundhuli  

Once upon a time, there was a town on the banks of the Tungabhadra river. A Brahmin named Atmadev lived there. He was well-versed in the Vedas and knew how to perform yajnas. Although he was wealthy, he lived a life of austerity, accepting only what he received in alms. His wife, Dhundhuli, was of noble lineage and virtuous, but she had a stubborn streak. Often, she would engage in idle gossip, talking about others. She spent her time in chit-chat and exaggeration. However, there was one deep sorrow in their lives—lack of offspring. Both of them were dissatisfied with their childless state. They performed numerous vows and acts of charity, but still, they had no children. The Brahmin was deeply troubled and often sat despondent.

In the end, he left his home and went to the forest, unable to find peace anywhere. He began to self-inflict hardship. There, he met a sage. Atmadev shared his tale of sorrow with the sage, and the sage, moved by compassion, said, "Why do you cling to hope? In your destiny, there is no child in seven lifetimes."

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The Brahmin replied, "Please, do something. Bless me with a child. My heart yearns for one."

The sage gave him a divine fruit and said, "Give this to your wife. She must eat it and for one year, she must follow strict vows. She should eat only once a day, avoid anger, remain charitable, speak the truth, and maintain cleanliness. After one year, she will conceive a son with a pure heart."

Atmadev took the fruit, his eyes filled with tears as he prostrated before the sage. The sage then left on his journey.

Dhundhuli’s Deception and Dhundhukari’s Destiny

Atmadev joyfully returned home and called for his wife. Dhundhuli was glad to see him and her stubborn nature softened a little. With a calm mind, Atmadev told her everything and handed her the fruit, asking her to observe the vows for a year.

Dhundhuli, however, was skeptical. Her pregnant sister was staying with her, and she confided in her. The sister suggested, "If you don't want the fruit, give it to the cow. You just need a child, and I'll pretend that my son is yours. You can wear a disguise of pregnancy. Let's keep this secret. If you give my husband a large sum of money, he won’t question it."

Dhundhuli agreed to this plan. The fruit was given to the cow, and Dhundhuli began to feign pregnancy. She called her sister to stay with her.

In due course, the sister gave birth to a son, but she claimed it was Dhundhuli's child. She fabricated a story that her own child had died. Atmadev, convinced by their explanation, was overjoyed. The son was named Dhundhukari and was raised by Atmadev with great care.

However, this child, Dhundhukari, was destined for misfortune. He grew up to be a wicked person, indulging in vices and losing everything. Atmadev, now a beggar, began to feel great sorrow. In his time of despair, Gokarna, the son of Dhundhuli, who had grown into a wise and virtuous man, advised him, "Father, this worldly life is transient. Go to the forest, meditate on God, and remember His name. Don’t waste even a moment.

Gokarna’s Compassion and Dhundhukari’s Redemption

Atmadev left his home and went to the forest, meditating on God and remembering His name. After his death, he reached Vaikuntha and was blessed with eternal peace.

Meanwhile, Dhundhukari, having fallen into bad company, indulged in sinful acts. He was eventually killed by the wicked women and his wealth was looted. After his death, he became a restless ghost, wandering the town.

Gokarna went on a pilgrimage and learned of his brother’s death. He performed the last rites for him at Gaya and returned home. That night, he saw the restless spirit of Dhundhukari in the form of a terrible ghost. The ghost begged for release from his suffering, asking for Gokarna’s help.

Gokarna, though moved by compassion, didn’t know how to help. He offered comfort to the spirit and meditated on the sun for guidance. By dawn, the Sun God appeared before Gokarna and advised him, "Perform a seven-day recitation of the Bhagavat Purana. This is the only way to release Dhundhukari from his ghostly form."

Gokarna did so, and during the recitation, Dhundhukari, who was listening intently, underwent a miraculous transformation. In seven days, his ghostly form was completely purified. A divine chariot came to take him to heaven, and he bowed in gratitude to Gokarna.

The Power of Devotion and Liberation

As Gokarna questioned the Sun God, the Sun revealed, "The key difference lies in the devotion with which one listens. Dhundhukari listened with full concentration, fasting, meditating, and immersing himself in the soul of the Bhagavat. His sincere devotion earned him liberation."

Through his unwavering devotion, Dhundhukari was freed from his suffering. Gokarna, meanwhile, continued his recitations, guiding others toward liberation. Those who listened with the same dedication also attained salvation and reached Vaikuntha.

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 Conclusion

This story was narrated by Sanaka and the sages. The divine fragrance and celestial sounds filled the atmosphere, and the earth rejoiced with the names of Narayana.

Finally, Soot, in a gathering of sages, concluded, "Gokarna recited the Bhagavat to his brother, Dhundhukari, on the Shuddha Navami of Ashadha. This is how Dhundhukari attained salvation."

Thus, by listening with pure devotion, one can attain ultimate freedom. Those who listened to the story of the Bhagavat with full attention, like Gokarna and Dhundhukari, earned divine blessings.

Devotion, Knowledge, and Renunciation

ॐ Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Shrimad Bhagavata Mahatmya

Devotion, Knowledge, and Renunciation

Salutations to the Supreme Lord Vishnu, the omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient!

The Greatness of Sage Shukdev

Salutations to the wise sage Shukadeva, the illustrious son of Bhagavan Vyasa! From a young age, Shukadeva displayed extraordinary detachment. Before even undergoing the sacred thread ceremony, he renounced worldly life and left his home to walk the path of asceticism. Though Vyasa was profoundly wise, his fatherly heart could not bear the sudden departure of his radiant son. In anguish, Vyasa called out, “My child, where are you going?” Yet, Shukadeva, immersed in the divine consciousness, remained unaffected by his father’s plea. His ears might have registered the words, but his mind was absorbed in the supreme oneness of Brahman. Such was the sage Shuka—a human in form but divine in essence. To him, we offer boundless reverence.

This story, though ancient, remains ever new. No matter how many times it is told or by whom, its essence stays fresh, for it contains the nectar of divine love and devotion. The Shrimad Bhagavata is not just a scripture; it is a heartfelt narration of Lord Hari and His devotees, a tale that kindles the flame of devotion within us. Its greatness has been praised by sages of the highest order. While I am but a humble narrator, I cannot help but be captivated by its power. This tale does not let one sit idly; it evokes both contentment and longing in equal measure. Such is its glory!

The Gathering of Rishis in Naimisharanya

In the sacred forest of Naimisharanya, a gathering of sages led by Shaunaka once convened. Addressing Suta, Shaunaka posed a question:

“O wise Suta, this is the age of Kali. Most beings in this era are inclined toward unrighteousness, and the coming days will see an increase in demonic tendencies. Devotion, renunciation, wisdom, and penance have all diminished. What is the remedy for this? How can people free themselves from the clutches of illusion and attachment? Is there a means by which they can attain liberation in Kali Yuga?”

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Suta, delighted by the inquiry, responded:

“O Shaunaka and revered sages! I shall share with you the essence of eternal wisdom. Indeed, there is a remedy—the knowledge of the Shrimad Bhagavata. Only those blessed with immense merit accumulated over countless lifetimes can gain access to it. When one attains the grace of the Bhagavata, even the nectar of immortality pales in comparison.

When Shukadeva sat in King Parikshit’s court to narrate the Bhagavata, do you know what happened? The gods themselves descended with pots of nectar and approached Shukadeva. They requested, ‘O sage, we offer you this nectar. In return, please narrate the Bhagavata to us.’ However, Shukadeva declined their request, saying, ‘I do not wish for nectar. You are not eligible to hear the Bhagavata, for your hearts lack devotion.’ Such is the sanctity and grandeur of the Bhagavata! It is a profound means for purifying the mind and attaining liberation. King Parikshit attained liberation by simply listening to it. Even Brahma marveled at its greatness and declared it the ultimate path to liberation in Kali Yuga.”

The Importance of the Bhagavatam in Kali Yuga

The recital of the Bhagavata is traditionally conducted over seven days, known as the ‘Saptaha.’ It was first narrated in this manner by Sanatkumara to Narada. Through this method, devotion flourishes, the mind becomes immersed in remembrance of Lord Hari, and the impurities of Kali Yuga are washed away.

Once, Narada wandered across various holy sites such as Prayag, Kashi, Haridwar, and Setubandha. Despite visiting these places, he could not find peace. He lamented, “Truth, penance, charity, and compassion seem to have disappeared. Even among sages, there is no sign of true wisdom or spiritual inquiry. Everyone is driven by self-interest, with no higher ideals.”

As he wandered, he reached the banks of the Yamuna River, where he saw a young woman in distress. Two elderly men lay unconscious beside her, while other women tried to console her. Narada approached her and inquired, “Who are you? Who are these men? What has happened here?”

The Revival of Devotion, Knowledge, and Renunciation

The young woman introduced herself as Bhakti (Devotion) and explained, “These two are my sons—Jnana (Knowledge) and Vairagya (Renunciation). I was born in the Dravida region, grew up in Karnataka, and flourished in Maharashtra. My youth remained vibrant as I traveled through Gujarat, but when I ventured north, I grew feeble. Here in Vrindavan, I regained my youth, but my sons remain weak and lifeless. This is my sorrow.”

Narada tried to comfort her, saying, “This is the effect of Kali Yuga. Have patience; things will improve.”

Bhakti responded, “But why did King Parikshit allow Kali Yuga to remain? It has caused the destruction of virtues like penance, yoga, and righteousness. Good people suffer while the wicked thrive.”

Narada replied, “When Lord Krishna left the earth, the influence of Kali Yuga increased. However, Parikshit spared Kali because he recognized its unique virtue. While penance and austerities are challenging in this age, the simple act of chanting the Lord’s name yields immense spiritual rewards. Recognizing this, Parikshit granted Kali a limited space to reside.”

The Decline of Bhakti in Kali Yuga

Despite Narada’s consoling words, Bhakti remained distressed over her sons’ condition. Moved by her plight, Narada resolved to find a solution. As he contemplated, a celestial voice instructed him: “Perform noble deeds! Perform noble deeds!”

Confused by the vague command, Narada sought advice from sages, yogis, and scholars but found no clear answers. Finally, he decided to perform intense penance.

At Haridwar, Narada encountered the four Kumaras—Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana, and Sanatkumara. Narada shared his dilemma and sought their guidance.

The Kumaras revealed, “The greatest noble deed in Kali Yuga is the recitation and listening of the Shrimad Bhagavata. This scripture is the essence of the Vedas and Upanishads. Through its recital, even the gravest sins are absolved, and liberation is attained. The Bhagavata’s wisdom surpasses all other forms of knowledge, and it rejuvenates Devotion, Knowledge, and Renunciation.”

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Narad Muni’s Search for Solutions

Hearing this, Narada organized a grand Bhagavata Saptaha. As the sacred recitation began, Bhakti’s sons—Knowledge and Renunciation—regained their vigor and youth. Bhakti herself was filled with unparalleled joy. Witnessing this, Narada exclaimed, “Indeed, the Bhagavata’s power is miraculous! It purifies even the most sinful souls.”

Thus, the Shrimad Bhagavata stands as the ultimate remedy for the afflictions of Kali Yuga. Its glory transcends time, offering liberation and divine bliss to all who embrace it with faith.