The Mahabharata is regarded as the 'Panchama Veda' or the fifth Veda, signifying that it encapsulates the wisdom of the Vedas through its stories in a summarized manner. This post elucidates the divine order of the cosmos by drawing parallels between the events in the Mahabharata and the Universe. It also provides guidance on how maintain tranquility and lead a peaceful life by adhering to the teachings of the Mahabharata and the Vedas.
In the time-worn kingdom of Nishadha, the noble King Vīrasēna held sway, with his gallant son, Nala, as the jewel in his crown. Meanwhile, in the neighboring realm of Vidarbha, King Bhīma (not the son of King Pandu) ruled with a blend of sagacity and fairness. His daughter, Damayanti, endowed with the favors of Shama & Dama (Level headed mind & Self Control), was the treasure of his heart, renowned for her unparalleled beauty, elegance, and moral excellence.
As time progressed, tales of Damayanti's beauty and admirable qualities reached Nala, stories of Nala’s bravery and charm were conveyed to Damayanti. Although they had never met, both were captivated by what they heard about each other. They found themselves in love, bound by admiration for each other's qualities' virtues, without having laid eyes on one another.
One day, as Nala wandered through his palace gardens, lost thoughts of Damayanti, he noticed a flock of swans with golden wings gliding gracefully through the air. Fascinated, he moved closer and managed to catch one of the beautiful birds. Curious, he gazed at the swan, captivated by its shimmering wings and unique beauty.
As Nala held the swan in his hands, to his astonishment, the bird began to speak like a human. "O Prince," it said, "spare my life, and in return, I shall bring you happiness. I will fly to Princess Damayanti and speak to her of your virtues and bravery. She, too, will long for you as you do for her." Hearing these words, Nala’s heart filled with hope and he released the swan.
The swan, accompanied by its flock, flew to the kingdom of Vidarbha and alighted near Damayanti. The princess and her companions admired the golden-winged birds and attempted to catch them, laughing and reveling in the spectacle. By chance, Damayanti caught the very swan that Nala had spoken to, and, as before, it began to speak.
"O Damayanti the swan gently said, "there is a prince named Nala in the kingdom of Nishadha. Brave, noble, and possessing a charm that matches your own, he is renowned far and wide. Should you choose him as your husband, joy would bless not only your life but also the lives of both your people."
Upon hearing this, Damanti's heart raced with joy. She had long dreamed of Nala, and now the swan's words deepened her admiration. Her mind was filled with thoughts of the prince she had come to know only through stories, and now through this unexpected messenger. From that moment, Damayanti's longing to meet N grew stronger, and she cherished the hope of seeing him one day.
Meanwhile, King Bhīma deemed it an opportune moment for Damanti to marry. He extended invitations to kings and princes from various realms to partake in the 'Swayamvara' of Damayanti. The spread far and wide, attracting many valiant and noble warriors eagerly journeyed to Vidarbha, aspiring to win her hand.
In the heavens, Indra learned of Damayanti's 'Swayamvara' through Narada. Maha Muni. Agni, Varuna, and Yama also expressed their desire to attend the event. Together, descended to Earth, and on their way, they encountered Nala and spoke to him.
Indra stated, "Agni, Varuna, and Yama are with me to request Damayanti’s hand in marriage. Go and tell her to select one of us as her spouse."
Nala, feeling humbled, replied, "I am on my way to marry Damayanti myself, yet you are asking me to go as a messenger to propose to her on your behalf. Is this just?"
Indra replied, "Adhere to my instructions, and you will go well. It is impossible to reach Damayanti's chambers with the heavy security surrounding her, but I shall grant you invisibility, visible only to Damayanti. Proceed and execute my command."
Obeying Indra's orders, Nala, carrying the gods' message, entered Damayanti's chamber. As he beheld Damayanti's unparalleled beauty, he composed himself, remembering his purpose as a messenger.
Damyanti, astonished to find Nala in her chamber, was filled with wonder when Nala introduced himself, and though Damayanti was pleased to see him, he reminded her that he was merely a messenger for Indra.
He said, "Princess, Indra, Yama, Varuna, and Agni will attend your 'Swayamvara' tomorrow. You may choose any one of them as your husband."
Upon hearing this Damayanti was left in shock. What will transpire at Swayamvara? Will Damayanti's love for Nala triumph over the will of the gods? Stay to discover in the next part!
Celestial Messages and Global Dimensions:
The love between Nala and Damayanti, developed solely through hearing others' opinions without ever meeting, may seem implausible. The addition of the swan conversing with King Nala further strains credulity. However, in the Mahabharata, such events are possible. This does not imply that the Mahabharata is a fictional fairy tale; rather, it is historical account of the world.
The Mahabharata is a skit by Lord Vishnu, with all the deities and demons as its actors. In the Mahabharata, as well as in the cosmos, there are no accidents. Everything may appear chaotic, beneath the chaos, there is a secret order according to which events unfold. This was designed by Lord Vishnu (Paramatma). You may become overwhelmed with problems, worry excessively, or feel anxious about the future; however, if you understand this order and surrender completely to Lord Krishna, He will protect you at all costs. You do not need to think about anything except Krishna. Everything is already taken care of by Him.
The love between Nala and Damayanti, developed solely through hearing others' opinions without ever meeting is happening as per the divine order. Even the participation of Deities like Indra, Yama, Varuna or Agni is as per the instructions of Lord Vishnu. Indra sending Nala to propose Damayanti is a part of the divine order and how things will unfold with Nala and Damayanti, which we'll be learning in the next episode. So please stay tuned!
श्रीमध्वेशकृष्णार्पणमस्तु
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