SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 63(D)

"Then Bhishma, of great energy and fame and of immeasurable glory, and sprung from the component parts of the Vasus (eight Vasus also known as Ashtavasus - Dhaaraa, Analaa, Anilaa, Ahaa, Pratyushaa, Prabhaasa, Somaa and Dhruvaa), was born in the womb of Ganga through king Shantanu.

"There was a Rishi of the name of Aanimandavya of great fame. He was familiar with the interpretations of the Vedas, was respected, gifted with great energy, and of great reputation. Accused of theft, though innocent, the old Rishi (Aanimandavya) was pierced. He thereupon summoned Dharma (God of justice) and told him these words, 'In my childhood I had pierced a little fly on a blade of grass, O Dharma! I recollect that one sin: but I cannot call to mind any other. I have, however, since practised Tapas a thousandfold. Has not that one sin been conquered by this my Tapas? Because the killing of a Brahmana is more evil than that of any other living thing, therefore, you have, O Dharma, been sinful. You shall, therefore, be born on earth in the Shudra varna.' For that curse Dharma was born a Shudra in the form of the learned Vidura of pure body who was perfectly sinless.

"The Suta was born of Kunti in her maidenhood through Surya (Sun God). He came out of his mother's womb with a natural coat of armour and face brightened by ear-rings.

"(Lord) Vishnu Himself, of world-wide fame, and worshipped of all the worlds, was born of Devaki through Vasudeva, for the benefit of the three worlds. He is without birth and death, of radiant splendour, the Creator of the universe and the Lord of all! Indeed, He who is the invisible cause of all, who knows no deterioration, who is the all-pervading soul, the centre round which everything moves, the substance in which the three attributes (Guna in Sanskrit) of Sattwa, Rajas and Tamas exist together, the universal soul (Paramatma in Sanskrit), the immutable, the material out of which has been created this universe, the Creator Himself, the controlling lord, the invisible dweller in every object, parent of this universe of five elements, who is united with the six high attributes (Gnana, Vairagya, Aishwarya, Bala, Sri and Keerti), is the Pranava or Om of the Vedas, is infinite, incapable of being moved by any force except His own will, illustrious, the embodiment of the mode of life called Sannyasa, who floated on the waters before the creation, who is the source from where has sprung this mighty frame, who is the great combiner, the uncreated, the invisible essence of all, the great immutable, devoid of those attributes (guna in Sanskrit) that are knowable by the senses, who is the universe itself, without beginning, birth, and decay,--is possessed of infinite wealth, that Pitamaha of all creatures, became incarnate in the race of the Andhaka-Vrishnis for the increase of Dharma.

"Saatyaki and Kritavarma, familiar with (the use of) weapons possessed of mighty energy, well-versed in all branches of knowledge, and obedient to (Lord) Narayana in everything and competent in the use of weapons, had their births from Saatyaka and Hridika.

"The seed (semen) of the MahaRishi Bharadwaja of severe penances, kept in a pot, began to develop. From that seed came Drona (the pot-born).

"From the seed of Gautama, fallen upon a group of reeds, were born two that were twins, the mother of Aswatthama (called Kripi), and Kripa of great strength.

"Then was born Dhrishtadyumna, of the splendour of Agni himself, from the yagnaagni. The mighty hero was born with bow in hand for the destruction of Drona.

"From the yagna kund was born Krishna (Draupadi) brilliant and handsome, of bright features and excellent beauty.

"Then was born the disciple of Prahlada, viz., Nagnajit, and also Saubala.

"From Saubala was born a son, Shakuni, who from the curse of Devas became the slayer of creatures and the enemy of Dharma.

"To him (Saubala) was also born a daughter (Gandhari), the mother of Duryodhana. Both were well-versed in the arts of acquiring worldly profits.

"From Krishna (Rishi Vyasa) was born, in the soil of Vichitravirya (to the wives of Vichitravirya), Dhritarashtra, the lord of men, and Pandu of great strength.

"From Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa) also born, in the Shudra varna, the wise and intelligent Vidura, familiar with both Dharma and Arthaa, and free from all sins.

"To Pandu by his two wives were born five sons like Devas. The eldest of them was Yudhishthira. Yudhishthira was born (of the seed) of Dharma (Yama, the god of justice); and Bhima of the wolf's stomach was born of Marut (the god of wind), and Dhananjaya (Arjuna), blessed with good fortune and the first of all wielders of weapons, was born of (Lord) Indra; and Nakula and Sahadeva, of handsome features and ever engaged in the service of their superiors, were born of the twin Ashwins (Ashwini Devas).

"To the wise Dhritarashtra were born a hundred sons, viz., Duryodhana and others, and another, named Yuyutsu, who was born (to Dhritarashtra) of a Vaishya woman.

"Amongst those hundred and one, eleven, viz., Duhshaasana, Duhsaha, Durmarshana, Vikarna, Chitrasena, Vivinsati, Jaya, Satyavrata, Purumitra, and Yuyutsu by a Vaishya wife, were all Maharathas (great car-warriors).

"Abhimanyu was born of Subhadra, the sister of Vaasudeva (Sri Krishna) through Arjuna, and was, therefore, the grandson of the illustrious Pandu.

"To the five Pandavas were born five sons by (their common wife) Panchali. These princes were all very handsome and familiar with all branches of knowledge. From Yudhishthira was born Pritivindhya; from Vrikodara (Bhimasena) - Sutasoma; from Arjuna - Srutakirti; from Nakula - Satanika; and from Sahadeva - Srutasena of great skills;

"Bhima, in the forest father on Hidimba a son named Ghatotkacha.

"From Drupada was born a daughter Shikhandi who was afterwards transformed into a male child. Shikhandini was so transformed into a male by Yaksha named Sthuna from the desire of doing her good.

"In that great battle of the Kurus came hundreds of thousands of monarchs for fighting against one another. The names of the innumerable host I am unable to recount even in ten thousand years. I have named, however, the principal ones who have been mentioned in this history.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 63(C)

"The fish-smelling daughter of the Apsara (Aadrika) in her fish form was then given by the king (Vasu) to the fishermen, saying, 'Let this one be your daughter.' That girl was known by the name of Satyavati. Gifted with great beauty and possessed of every Dharma, she of agreeable smiles, owing to contact with fishermen, was for some time of the fishy smell. Wishing to serve her (foster) father she plied a boat on the waters of the Yamuna.

"While engaged in this profession, Satyavati was seen one day by the great Rishi Paraasharaa, in course of his wanderings. As she was gifted with great beauty, an object of desire even with a Muni, and of graceful smiles, the wise sage, as soon as he saw her, desired to have her. That bull amongst Munis (Rishi Paraasharaa) addressed the daughter of Vasu (Satyavati) of divine beauty and diminishing thighs, saying, 'Accept my embraces, O blessed one!' Satyavati replied, 'O holy one, see the Rishis standing on either bank of the river. Seen by them, how can I grant your wish?'

"Thus addressed by her, the Rishi (Paraasharaa) thereupon created a fog (which existed not before and) which enveloped the whole region in darkness. The lady (Satyavati), seeing the fog that was created by the MahaRishi (Paraasharaa) wondered much. The helpless one (Satyavati) became covered with the blushes of shy. She said, 'O holy one (Rishi Paraasharaa), note that I am a lady under the control of my father. O sinless one, by accepting your embraces my virginity will be spoiled. O best of Brahmanas, my virginity being spoiled, how shall I, O Rishi, be able to return home? Indeed, I shall not then be able to bear life. Thinking upon all this, O illustrious one, do that which should be done.' That best of Rishis, pleased with all she said, replied, "You shall remain a virgin even if you grant my wish. O faint-hearted one, O beauteous lady, ask the boon that you desire. O you of fair smiles, my grace has never before proved fruitless.' Thus addressed, the lady (Satyavati) asked for the boon that her body might emit a sweet scent (instead of the fish-odour that it had). The illustrious Rishi thereupon granted that wish of her heart.

"Having obtained her boon, she became highly pleased, and her season immediately came. She accepted the embraces of that Rishi of wonderful karma. She (Satyavati) from that time became known among men by the name of Gandhavati (the sweet-scented one). Men could perceive her scent from the distance of a yojana. For this she was known by another name which was Yojanagandha (one who scatters her scent for a yojana all around). The illustrious Paraasharaa, after this, went to his own ashrama.

"Satyavati pleased with having obtained the excellent boon in consequence of which she became sweet-scented and her virginity remained unspoiled conceived through Paraasharaa's embraces. She brought forth the very day, on an island in the Yamuna, the child fathered upon her by Paraasharaa and gifted with great energy. The child, with the permission of his mother, set his mind on Tapas. He went away saying, 'As soon as you remember me when occasion comes, I shall appear to you.'

"It was thus that Vyasa was born of Satyavati through Paraasharaa. Because he (Rishi Vyasa) was born in an island, he was called Dwaipayana (Dwaipa or islandborn). The learned Dwaipayana, seeing that Dharma is destined to become weak by one leg each yuga (she having four legs in all) and that the period of life and the strength of men followed the yugas, and moved by the desire of obtaining the favour of (Lord) Brahma and Brahmanas, arranged the Vedas. For this he came to be called Vyasa (the arranger or compiler). The boon-giving great one (Rishi Vyasa) then taught Sumanta, Jaimini, Paila, his son Suka, and Vaishampaayana, the Vedas having the Mahabharata for their fifth. The compilation of the Bharata was published by him through them separately.

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 63(B)

"When king Vasu took his seat in that crystal chariot, with the gift of (Lord) Indra, and travlled through the sky, he was approached by Gandharvas and Apsaras (the celestial singers and dancers). As he travelled through the upper regions, he was called Uparichara. By his capital flowed a river called Shuktimati. That river was once attacked by a life-endued mountain called Kolaahala maddened by Kaamaa. Vasu, seeing the foul attempt, struck the mountain with his foot. By the depression caused by Vasu's stamp, the river came out (of the embraces of Kolahala). But the mountain fathered on the river two children that were twins. The river, grateful to Vasu for his having set her free from Kolaahala's embraces, gave them both to Vasu. The son was made the generalissimo (Senathipathi in Sanskrit) to his forces by Vasu, that best of Rajarishi and giver of wealth and punisher of enemies. The daughter called Girikaa, was wedded by Vasu.

"Girikaa, the wife of Vasu, after her menstrual course, purifying herself by a bath, represented her state to her lord. But that very day the Pitris of Vasu came to that best of monarchs and foremost of wise men, and asked him to slay deer (for their Sraddha). The king (Vasu), thinking that the command of the Pitris should not be disobeyed, went on hunting thinking of Girikaa alone who was gifted with great beauty and like to another Sri (Goddess Lakshmi) herself. The season being the spring, the forest within which the king was roaming, had become delightful like to the gardens of the king of the Gandharvas (Kubera) himself. There were (trees like) Ashokas, Champakas, Chutas and Atimuktas in abundance: and there were Punnagas, Karnikaras, Vakulas, Divya Patalas, Patalas, Narikelas, Chandanas, Arjunas and similar other beautiful and sacred trees glowing with fragrant flowers and sweet fruits.

"The whole forest was maddened by the sweet notes of the kokila and echoed with the hum of maddened bees. The king became possessed with desire, and he saw not his wife before him. Maddened by desire he was roaming here and there, when he saw a beautiful Ashoka (tree) decked with dense leaves, its branches covered with flowers. The king sat at his ease in the shade of that tree. Excited by the fragrance of the season and the charming odours of the flowers around, and excited also by the delicious breeze, the king (Vasu) could not keep his mind away from the thought of the beautiful Girikaa. Seeing that a swift hawk was resting very near to him, the king (Vasu), acquainted with the precise truths of Dharma and Arthaa, went to him and said, 'Friendly one, you carry this seed (semen) for my wife Girikaa and give it to her. Her season has arrived.'

"The hawk, swift of speed, took it from the king and rapidly travelled through the air. While thus passing, the hawk was seen by another of his species. Thinking that the first one was carrying meat, the second one flew at him. The two fought with each other in the sky with their beaks. While they were fighting, the seed fell into the waters of the Yamuna. In those waters stayed an Apsara of the higher rank, known by the name of Aadrika, transformed by a Brahmana's curse into a fish. As soon as Vasu's seed fell into the water from the claws of the hawk, Aadrika rapidly approached and swallowed it at once. That fish was, some time after, caught by the fishermen. It was the tenth month of the fish's having swallowed the seed. From the stomach of that fish came out a male and a female child of human form. The fishermen wondered much, and went to king Uparichara (for they were his subjects) told him all. They said, 'O king, these two beings of human shape have been found in the body of a fish!' The male child amongst the two was taken by Uparichara. That child afterwards became the Dharmic and truthful monarch - Matsya.

"After the birth of the twins, the Apsara (Aadrika) herself became freed from her curse. For she had been told before by the illustrious one (who had cursed her) that she would, while living in her fish form, give birth to two children of human shape and then would be freed from the curse. Then, according to these words, having given birth to the two children, and been killed by the fishermen, she left her fish-form and assumed her own Apsara shape. The Apsara then rose up on the path walked by the Siddhas, the Rishis and the Charanas.

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 63(A)

"Vaishampaayana said, 'There was a king of the name of Uparichara. That monarch was devoted to Dharma. He was very much addicted also to hunting. That king of the Paurava race, called also Vasu, conquered the excellent and delightful kingdom of Chedi (in later years Shisupala would become the king of Chedi) under instructions from (Lord) Indra. Some time after, the king (Uparichara) gave up the use of weapons and, staying in a undisturbed retreat, practised the most severe austerities. Devas with (Lord) Indra at their head once approached the monarch (Uparichara) during this period, believing that he sought the headship of Devas (Head of Devas is Lord Indra), by those severe austerities of his. Devas, becoming objects of his sight, by soft speeches succeeded in winning him away from his ascetic austerities.'

"Devas said, 'O lord of the earth (Uparichara), you should take care so that Dharma may not sustain a decline on earth! Protected by you, Dharma itself will in return protect the universe.' 

"(Lord) Indra said, 'O king (Uparichara), protect Dharma on earth attentively and rigidly. Being Dharmic, you shall, for all time, see (in after life) many sacred regions. Though I am of Heaven, and you are of earth, yet are you my friend and dear to me. O king of men (Uparichara), you stay in that region on earth which is delightful, and abounds in animals, is sacred, full of wealth and corn, is well-protected like heaven, which is of agreeable climate, graced with every object of enjoyment, and blessed with fertility. O monarch of Chedi (Uparichara), this your dominion (Chedi kingdom) is full of riches, of gems and precious stones, and contains, besides, much mineral wealth. The cities and towns of this region are all devoted to Dharma; the people are honest and contented; they never lie even in joke. Sons never divide their wealth with their fathers and are ever mindful of the welfare of their parents. Lean cattle are never attached to the plough or the cart or engaged in carrying merchandise; on the other hand, they are well-fed and fattened. In Chedi, the four varnas are always engaged in their respective professions. Let nothing be unknown to you that happens in the three worlds. I shall give you a crystal chariot such as Devas alone are capable of carrying the chariot through mid air. You alone, of all mortals on earth, riding on that best of chariots, shall travel through mid-air like a Deva endued with a physical frame. I shall also give you a triumphal garland of unfading lotuses, with which on, in battle, you shall not be wounded by weapons. O king (Uparichara), this blessed and incomparable garland, widely known on earth as Indra's garland, shall be your distinctive badge.

"Vaishampaayana continued, "The slayer of Vritra (Lord Indra) also gave the king, for his gratification, a bamboo pole for protecting the honest and the peaceful. After the expiry of a year, the king (Uparichara) planted it in the ground for the purpose of worshipping the giver thereof, viz., Shakra (Lord Indra). O monarch (Janamejaya), from that time onwards all kings, following Vasu's example, began to plant a pole (Stamba in Sanskrit) for the celebration of (Lord) Indra's worship. After erecting the pole they decked it with golden cloth, scents, garlands and various ornaments. The Deva Vasava (Lord Indra) is worshipped in due form with such garlands and ornaments. The Deva (Lord Indra), for the gratification of the illustrious Vasu, assuming the form of a swan, came himself to accept the worship thus offered. The Deva, seeing the auspicious worship thus made by Vasu, that first of monarchs, was delighted, and said to him, 'Those men, and kings also, who will worship me and joyously observe this festival of mine like the king of Chedi, shall have glory and victory for their countries and kingdom. Their cities also shall expand and be ever in joy.'

"King Vasu was thus blessed by the pleased Maghavat (Lord Indra), the high-souled Chief of Devas. Indeed, those men who cause this festivity of Shakra (Lord Indra) to be observed with gifts of land, of gems and precious stones, become the respected of the world. King Vasu, the lord of Chedis gifting boons and performing great yagnas and observing the festivity of Shakra, was much respected by (Lord) Indra. From Chedi, he (Uparichara) ruled the whole world as per Dharma. For the gratification of (Lord) Indra, Vasu, the lord of the Chedis, observed the festivity of (Lord) Indra.

"Vasu had five sons of great energy and immeasurable skills. The emperor installed his sons as governors of various provinces.

"His son Brihadratha was installed in Magadha and was known by the name of Maharatha. Another son of his was Pratyagraha; and another, Kushaamba, who was also called Manivaahana. The two others were Machella, and Yadu of great skill and invincible in battle.

"O monarch (Janamejaya), these were the sons of that Rajarishi (Uparichara) of mighty energy. The five sons of Vasu planted kingdoms and towns after their own names and founded separate dynasties that lasted for long ages.

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 62

"Janamejaya said, 'O excellent Dwija (Dwija means twice-born, while the first birth is natural, the second birth occurs upon the realisation of the Supreme Soul; Here Rishi Vaishampaayana is referred as a Dwija), you have, indeed, told me, in brief, the history, called Mahabharata, of the great acts of the Kurus. But, O you of wealth of Muni (Rishi Vaishampaayana), recite now that wonderful narration (of Mahabharata) fully. I feel a great curiosity to hear it. Therefore, it is your duty to recite it in full. I am not satisfied with hearing in a nutshell the great history. That could never have been a unimportant cause for which the Dharmic ones could slay those whom they should not have slain, and for which they are yet applauded by men.

"Why also did those tigers among men, innocent and capable of avenging themselves upon their enemies, calmly suffer the persecution of the wicked Kurus? Why also, O best of Brahmanas (Rishi Vaishampaayana), did Bhima of mighty arms and of the strength of ten thousand elephants, control his anger, though wronged? Why also did the chaste (Patni in Sanskrit) Krishna (Draupadi), the daughter of Drupada, wronged by those wretches and able to burn them, not burn the sons of Dhritarashtra with her angry eyes? Why also did the two other sons of Pritha (Bhima and Arjuna) and the two sons of Madri (Nakula and Sahadeva), themselves injured by the wretched (Duraatma in Sanskrit) Kurus, follow Yudhishthira who was greatly addicted to the evil habit of gambling? Why also did Yudhishthira, that foremost of all Dharmic men, the son of Dharma himself, fully familiar with all duties, suffer that excess of pain? Why also did the Pandava Dhananjaya (Arjuna), having (Sri) Krishna for his charioteer, who by his arrows sent to the other world that dauntless host of fighting men (suffer such persecution)? O you of wealth of Muni, speak to me of all these as they took place, and everything that those mighty charioteers achieved.'

"(Rishi) Vaishampaayana said, 'O monarch (Janamejaya), you appoint a time for hearing it. This history (Mahabharata) told by Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa) is very extensive. This is but the beginning. I shall recite it. I shall repeat the whole of the composition in full, of the illustrious and great Rishi Vyasa of immeasurable mental power, and worshipped in all the worlds. This Bharata consists of a hundred thousand (100,000) sacred slokas composed by the son of Satyavati (Rishi Vyasa), of immeasurable mental power. He that reads it to others, and they that hear it read, attain to the world of (Lord) Brahma and become equal to the very Devas. This Bharata is equal to the Vedas, is holy and excellent; is the worthiest of all to be listened to, and is a Purana worshipped by the Rishis.

"It (Mahabharata) contains much useful instruction on Arthaa and Kaamaa (profit and pleasure). This sacred history makes the heart desire for salvation (Moksha in Sanskrit). Learned persons by reciting this Veda of Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa) to those that are liberal, truthful and believing, earn much wealth. Sins, such as killing the embryo in the womb, are destroyed assuredly by this. A person, however cruel and sinful, by hearing this history, escapes from all his sins like the Sun from Rahu (after the eclipse is over). This history is called Jaya.

"It should be heard by those desirous of victory. A king by hearing it may bring the whole world under subjection and conquer all his enemies. This history in itself is a mighty act of appeasement, a mighty sacrifice productive of blessed fruit. It should always be heard by a young monarch with his queen, for then they beget a heroic son or a daughter to occupy a throne. This history is the high and sacred science of Dharma, Arthaa, and also of Moksha; it has been so said by Vyasa himself of mind that is immeasurable. This history is recited in the present age and will be recited in the future. They that hear it, read, have sons and servants always obedient to them and doing their instruction. All sins that are committed by body, word, or mind, immediately leave them that hear this history. They who hear, without the spirit of fault finding, the story of the birth of the Bharata princes, can have no fear of sickness, let alone the fear of the other world.

"For extending the fame of the high-souled Pandavas and of other Kshatriyas versed in all branches of knowledge, high spirited, and already known in the world for their achievements, Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa), guided also by the desire of doing good to the world, has composed this work. It (Mahabharata) is excellent, productive of fame, grants length of life, is sacred and heavenly. He who, from desire of acquiring merit of Dharma, causes this history to be heard by sacred Brahmanas, acquires great merit and Dharma that is inexhaustible. He that recites the famous generation of the Kurus becomes immediately purified and acquires a large family himself, and becomes respected in the world. That Brahmana who regularly studies this sacred Bharata for the four months of the rainy season, is cleansed from all his sins. He that has read the Bharata may be regarded as one acquainted with the Vedas.

"This work presents an account of Devas, Rajarishis (Kings) and sacred Dwija Rishis, the sinless Keshava (Sri Krishna); the Devon ke Dev - Mahadeva (Lord Shiva) and the goddess Parvati; the birth of Kartikeya (Lord Muruga) who sprang from union of Parvati with Mahadeva and was reared by many mothers; the greatness of Brahmanas and of cows.

"This Bharata is a collection of all the Srutis (Vedas, Samhitas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads), and is fit to be heard by every Dharmic person. That learned man who recites it to Brahmanas during the sacred lunar months, becomes cleansed of all sins, and, not caring for heaven as it were, attains to a union with (Lord) Brahma. He that causes even a single foot of this poem to be heard by Brahmanas during the performance of a Sraddha, makes that Sraddha inexhaustible, the Pitris becoming ever pleased with the articles once presented to them.

"The sins that are committed daily by our senses or the mind, those that are committed knowingly or unknowingly by any man, are all destroyed by hearing the Mahabharata. The history of the noble birth of the Bharata princes is called the Mahabharata. He who knows this etymology of the name is cleansed of all his sins. As this history of the Bharata race is so wonderful, that, when recited, it assuredly purifies mortals from all sins. The sage Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa) completed his work in three years. Rising daily and purifying himself and performing his devotions pertaining to a Rishi, he composed this Mahabharata. Therefore, this should be heard by Brahmanas with the ceremony of a vow (Sankalpa in Sanskrit).

"He who recites this holy narration composed by Krishna (Rishi Vyasa) for the hearing of others, and they who hear it, in whatever state he or they may be, can never be affected by the fruit of karma - good or bad. The man desirous of acquiring Dharma should hear it all. This is equivalent to all histories, and he that hears it always attains to purity of heart. The gratification that one derives from attaining to heaven is scarcely equal to that which one derives from hearing this holy history.

"The Dharmic man who with respect hears it or causes it to be heard, obtains the fruit of Rajasuya (yagna) and Ashwamedha (yagna). The Bharata is said to be as much a mine of gems as the vast Ocean or the great mountain Meru. This history is sacred and excellent, and is equivalent to the Vedas, worthy of being heard, pleasing to the ear, sin-cleansing, and increasing Dharma.

"O monarch (Janamejaya), he that gives a copy of the Bharata to one that asks for it does indeed make a present of the whole earth with her belt of seas (Belt of seas indicate the speaker knows that the southern hemisphere is filled with seas and oceans and stating that it as a belt which surround waist taking a round shape, the author also seems to know that the Earth is spherical in nature). O son of Parikshit (Janamejaya), this pleasant narration that gives Dharma and victory I am about to recite in its entirety: listen to it. The sage Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa) regularly rising for three years, composed this wonderful history called Mahabharata. O bull amongst the Bharata monarchs (Janamejaya), whatever is spoken about Dharma, Arthaa, Kaamaa, and Moksha may be seen elsewhere; but whatever is not contained in this is not to be found anywhere.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 61

"Vaishampaayana said, 'Bowing down in the first place to my Guru (Rishi Vyasa) with the eight parts of my body touching the ground (two feet, two knees, two palms, the chest and the head - in Sanskrit it is called as Ashtanga Namaskara), with devotion and respect, and with all my heart, worshipping the whole assembly of Brahmanas and other learned persons, I shall recite in full what I have heard from the high-souled and MahaRishi Vyasa, the first of intelligent men in the three worlds. O monarch (Janamejaya), having got it within your reach, you also are a fit person to hear the composition called Bharata. Encouraged by the command of my Guru my heart feels no fear.

"Hear, O monarch (Janamejaya), why that disunion occurred between the Kurus and the Pandavas, and why also that exile into the forect immediately proceeding from the game at dice prompted by the desire (of the Kurus) for rule. O best of the Bharata race! I shall narrate all to you who ask it.

"On the death of their father (Pandu), those heroes (Veera in Sanskrit, referring to Pandavas here) came to their own home. Within a short time they became well-versed in archery. The Kurus seeing the Pandavas gifted with physical strength, energy, power of mind, also popular with the citizens, and blessed with good fortune, became very jealous. Then the crooked minded Duryodhana, and Karna, with the son of Saubala (Shakuni) began to persecute them and devise means for their exile.

"Then the wicked Duryodhana, guided by the advice of Shakuni (his maternal uncle), persecuted the Pandavas in various ways for the acquirement of undisputed sovereignty. The wicked son of Dhritarashtra (Duryodhana) gave poison to Bhima, but Bhima of the stomach of the wolf digested the poison with the food. Then the wretch (Duryodhana) again tied the sleeping Bhima on the bank of Ganga and, dropped him into the water, went away. But when Bhimasena of strong arms, the son of Kunti woke, he tore the strings with which he had been tied and came up, with his pains all gone. While asleep and in the water black snakes of deadly poison bit him in every part of his body. But that slayer of enemies (Bhimasena) did not still perish. In all those persecutions of the Pandavas by their cousins, the Kurus, the high-minded Vidura attentively engaged himself neutralising those evil designs and rescuing the persecuted ones (Pandavas). As Shakra (Lord Indra) from the heavens keeps in happiness the world of men, so did Vidura always keep the Pandavas from evil.

"When Duryodhana, with various means, both secret and open, found himself incapable of destroying the Pandavas who were protected by the fate and kept alive for grave future purposes (such as the extermination of the Kuru race), then called together his counsellors consisting of Vrisha (Karna), Duhshaasana and others, and with the knowledge of Dhritarashtra caused a house of lac to be constructed. King Dhritarashtra, from affection for his children, and prompted by the desire of sovereignty, sent Pandavas tactfully into Varanavata. The Pandavas then went away with their mother from Hastinapura. When they were leaving the city (Hastinapura), Vidura gave them some idea of impending danger and how they could come out of it.

"The sons of Kunti reached the town of Varanavata and lived there with their mother. And, agreeably to the command of Dhritarashtra, those illustrious slayers of all enemies (Pandavas) lived in the palace of lac, while in that town. They lived in that place (palace of lac) for one year, protecting themselves from Purochana very wakefully. Causing a underground passage to be constructed, acting according to the directions of Vidura, they set fire to that house of lac and burnt Purochana (their enemy and the spy of Duryodhana) to death.

"Those slayers of all enemies (Panadavas), anxious with fear, then fled with their mother. In the forest beside a mountain they saw a Rakshasa. But, alarmed at the risk they ran of exposure by such an act the Pandavas fled in the darkness, out of fear from the sons of Dhritarashtra. It was here that Bhima gained Hidimba (the sister of the Rakshasa he slew) for a wife, and it was of her that Ghatotkacha was born.

"Then the Pandavas, of rigid vows (Sankalpa in Sanskrit), and knowledgeable with the Vedas walked to a town of the name of Ekachakra and stayed there in the guise of Brahmacharins. Those bulls among men stayed in that town in the house of a Brahmana for some time, with temperance and abstinence. It was here that Bhima of mighty arms came upon a hungry and mighty and man-eating Rakshasa of the name of Baka. Bhima, the son of Pandu, that tiger among men, slew him (Baka) speedily with the strength of his arms and made the citizens safe and free from fear.

"Then they (Pandavas) heard of Krishna (also known as Draupadi) having become disposed to select a husband from among the assembled princes (Swayamvara in Sanskrit). Hearing of it, they went to Panchala, and there they obtained the lady (Draupadi). Having obtained Draupadi (as their common wife) they then stayed there (in Panchala) for a year. After they became known, those punishers of all enemies (Pandavas) went back to Hastinapura. They were then told by king Dhritarashtra and the son of Shantanu (Bhishma) as follows: 'In order, O dear ones, disagreements may not take place between you and your cousins, we have settled that Khandavaprastha should be your abode. Therefore, you go, casting off all jealousy, to Khandavaprastha which contains many towns served by many broad roads, for staying there.'

"Accordingly the Pandavas went, with all their friends and followers, to Khandavaprastha taking with them many jewels and precious stones. The sons of Pritha (sons of Kunti) stayed there (Khandavaprastha) for many years. They (Pandavas) brought, by force of arms, many princes under their subjection. Thus, setting their hearts on Dharma and firmly adhering to Sathya, undisturbed by wealth, calm in behaviour, and putting down numerous evils, the Pandavas gradually rose to power. Bhima of great reputation subjugated the East, the heroic Arjuna - the North, Nakula - the West; Sahadeva that slayer of all hostile heroes (Veera in Sanskrit) - the South. This having been done, their domination was spread over the whole world. With the five Pandavas, each like the Sun, the Earth looked as if she had six Suns.

"Then, for some reason, Dharmaraja Yudhishthira gifted with great energy and skills, sent his brother Arjuna who was capable of drawing the bow with the left hand, dearer to him than life itself, into the forest. Arjuna, that tiger among men, of firm soul, and gifted with every Dharma, lived in the forest for eleven years and months. During this period, on a certain occasion, Arjuna went to (Sri) Krishna in Dwaravati (present-day Dwaraka). Vibhatsu (Arjuna) there obtained for a wife, the lotus-eyed and sweet-speeched younger sister of Vaasudeva (Sri Krishna), Subhadra by name. She became united, in gladness, with Arjuna, the son of Pandu, like Shachi with Mahendra (the great Indra), or Sri (Goddess Lakshmi) with (Sri) Krishna Himself.

"Then, O best of monarchs (Janamejaya), Arjuna, the son of Kunti, with Vaasudeva, pleased Agni - the carrier of the sacrificial butter (Havya in Sanskrit), in the forest of Khandava (by burning the medicinal plants in that woods to cure Agni of his indigestion). To Arjuna, assisted as he was by Keshava (Sri Krishna), the task did not at all appear heavy even as nothing is heavy to Vishnu with immense design and resources in the matter of destroying his enemies.

"Agni gave to the son of Pritha (son of Kunti - here referring to Arjuna) the excellent bow Gandiva and an arrow basket that was inexhaustible, and a war-chariot bearing the figure of Garuda on its standard. It was on this occasion that Arjuna relieved the great Asura (Maayaasura) from fear (of being consumed in the fire). Maayaa, in gratitude, built (for the Pandavas) a divine sabha decked with every sort of jewels and precious stones. The wicked Duryodhana, seeing that building, was tempted with the desire of possessing it. Deceiving Yudhishthira by means of the dice played through the hands of the son of Saubala (Shakuni), Duryodhana sent Pandavas into the forest for twelve years and one additional year to be passed in concealment (Agnyaathavaasa in Sanskrit), thus making the period full thirteen.

"The fourteenth year, O monarch (Janamejaya), when the Pandavas returned and claimed their property, they did not obtain it. Thereupon war was declared, and the Pandavas, after exterminating the whole race of Kshatriyas and slaying king Duryodhana, obtained back their devastated kingdom.

"This is the history of the Pandavas who never acted under the influence of evil passions; and O first of victorious monarchs (Janamejaya), this the account of the disagreement that ended in the loss of their kingdom by the Kurus and the victory of the Pandavas.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 60

'Soota said, 'Hearing that Janamejaya was installed in the Sarpa Satra (snake-sacrifice), the learned Rishi Krishna-Dwaipayana (Vyasa) went there on the occasion. He (Rishi Vyasa), the grand-father of the Pandavas, was born in an island of the (river) Yamuna, of the virgin Kaali by Shakti's son, Paarasharaa. 

"The illustrious one (Rishi Vyasa) developed by his will alone his body as soon as he was born, and mastered Vedas with their branches (Vedangas in Sanskrit), and all the histories (Itihaasa in Sanskrit). He readily obtained that which no one could obtain by Tapas, by the study of the Vedas, by vows (Sankalpa in Sanskrit), by fasts, by children, and by yagna. The first of Veda-knowing ones, he (Rishi Vyasa) divided the Vedas into four parts (Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda and Atharvana Veda). The Brahmana Rishi (Vyasa) had knowledge of the supreme Brahma, knew the past by intuition, was holy, and cherished truth. Of sacred action and great fame, he fathered Pandu, Dhritarashtra and Vidura in order to continue the line of Shantanu.

"The high-souled Rishi (Vyasa), with his disciples all knoweledgeable with Vedas and their branches (Vedangas in Sanskrit), entered the pavilion of yagna of the Rajarishi Janamejaya. He saw that the king Janamejaya was seated in the region of yagna like Devenndra, surrounded by numerous Sadasyas (members), by kings of various countries whose crown locks had undergone the sacred bath, and by competent Ritwiks like to (Lord) Brahma Himself.

"That foremost one of Bharata's race, the Rajarishi Janamejaya, seeing the Rishi (Vyasa) come, advanced quickly with his followers and relatives in great joy. The king (Janamejaya) with the approval of his Sadasyas, gave the Rishi a golden seat as (Lord) Indra did to (Deva Guru) Brihaspati. When the Rishi (Vyasa), capable of granting boons and adored by Deva Rishis themselves, had been seated, the king of kings (Janamejaya) worshipped him according to the rites of Shastras. The king (Janamejaya) then offered him--his grandfather Krishna (Rishi Vyasa)--who fully deserved them, water to wash his feet and mouth, the Arghya, and cows.

"Accepting those offerings from the Pandava Janamejaya and ordering the cows also not to be slain, Vyasa became much gratified. The king (Janamejaya), after those adorations bowed to his great-grandfather (Rishi Vyasa), and sitting in joy asked him about his welfare. The illustrious Rishi also, casting his eyes upon him (King Janamejaya) and asking him about his welfare, worshipped the Sadasyas, having been before worshipped by them all. After all this, Janamejaya with all his Sadasyas, questioned that first of Brahmanas (Rishi Vyasa), with joined palms as follows:

'O Brahmana (Rishi Vyasa), you have seen with your own eyes the acts of the Kurus and the Pandavas. I am desirous of hearing you recite their history. What was the cause of the disunion among them that was fruitful of such extraordinary actions? Why also did that great battle, which caused the death of countless creatures occur between all my grandfathers--their clear sense over-clouded by fate? O excellent Brahmana, tell me all this in full as everything had happened.'

"Hearing those words of Janamejaya, Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa) directed his disciple Vaishampaayana seated by his side, saying, 'The discord that happened between the Kurus and the Pandavas in ancient times, narrate all to the king (Janamejaya) as you have heard from me.'

"Then that blessed Brahmana (Rishi Vaishampaayana), at the command of his Guru (Rishi Vyasa) recited the whole of that history to the king (Janamejaya), the Sadasyas, and all the chieftains there assembled. He told them all about the hostility and the utter extinction of the Kurus and the Pandavas.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AADIVAMSHAVATARANA (UPA) PARVA - PART 59

"(Rishi) Shaunaka said, 'O son (Soota), you have narrated to me this extensive and great history starting from the child of Bhrigu. O son of Suta, I have been much gratified with you. I ask you again, to recite to me, O son of a Suta, the history composed by Vyasa (Mahabharata). The varied and wonderful narrations that were recited among those illustrious Sadasyas (members in English) assembled at the yagna (Sarpa Satra or Snake Sacrifice), in the intervals of their duties of that long-extending ceremony, and the objects also of those narrations, I desire to hear from thee, O son of a Suta! Therefore recite, all those to me fully.'

'Soota said, 'The Brahmanas, in the intervals of the duties, spoke of many things founded upon the Vedas. But Vyasa recited the wonderful and great history called the Bharata.'

"(Rishi) Shaunaka said, 'That sacred history called the Mahabharata, spreading the fame of the Pandavas, which Krishna-Dwaipayana (Rishi Vyasa), asked by Janamejaya, caused to be duly recited after the completion of the (Sarpa Satra) yagna. I desire to hear duly. That history has been born of the ocean-like mind of the great Rishi (Vyasa) of soul purified by yoga. O foremost of good men, O son of a Suta, recite it to me, for my thirst has not been satisfied by all you have said.'

'Soota said, 'I shall recite to you from the beginning of that great and excellent history called the Mahabharata composed by Vyasa. O Brahmana (Rishi Shaunaka), listen to it in full, as I recite it. I myself feel a great pleasure in reciting it.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AASTIKA (UPA) PARVA - PART 58

"Soota said, 'Listen now to another very wonderful incident in connection with Aastika. When king Janamejaya was about to gratify Astika by granting the boon, the snake (Takshaka), thrown off (Lord) Indra's hands, remained in mid air without actually falling. King Janamejaya immediately became curious, for Takshaka, pained with fear, did not at once fall into the fire although libations were poured in proper form into the blazing sacrificial Agni in his name.'

"(Rishi) Saunaka said, 'Was it, O Suta, that the mantras of those wise Brahmanas were not powerful; since Takshaka did not fall into the fire?'

"Soota replied, 'To the unconscious Takshaka, that best of snakes, after he had been put off (Lord) Indra's hands, Aastika had thrice said, 'Stay,' 'Stay,' 'Stay.' He succeeded in staying in the skies, with pained heart, like a person somehow staying between the heaven and the earth.

"The king (Janamejaya) then, on being repeatedly urged by his Sadasyas, said, 'Let it be done as Aastika has said. Let the yagna be ended, let the snakes (Naagaa in Sanskrit) be safe, let this Aastika also be gratified, O Soota, your words also be true.' When the boon was granted to Aastika, plaudits expressive of joy rang through the air. Thus the yagna of the son of Parikshit (Janamejaya)--that king of the Pandava race--came to an end. The king Janamejaya of the Bharata race was himself pleased, and on the Ritwiks with the Sadasyas, and on all who had come there, the king, gifted money by hundreds and thousands.

"To Soota Lohitaksha--familiar with the rules of building and foundations--who had at the commencement said that a Brahmana would be the cause of the interruption of the Sarpa Satra (snake-sacrifice), the king gave much wealth. The king, of uncommon kindness, also gave him various things, with food and wearing clothes, according to his desire, and became very much pleased.

"Then he (Janamejaya) concluded his yagna according to the prescribed rites, and after treating him with every respect, the king (Janamejaya) in joy sent home the wise Aastika exceedingly pleased, for he had attained his object. The king said to him (Rishi Aastika), 'You must come again to become a Sadasya in my great Ashwamedha (yagna).' Aastika said, 'yes' and then returned home in great joy, having achieved his great end after gratifying the monarch. Returning in joy to his uncle (Vaasuki) and mother (Jaratkaaru) and touching their feet, he told to them everything as it had happened.'

"Soota continued, 'Hearing all he had said, the snakes (Naagaa in Sanskrit) that had come there became very much delighted, and their fears were removed. They were much pleased with Aastika and asked him to solicit a boon, saying, 'O learned one, what good shall we do to you? We have been very much pleased, having been all saved by you. What shall we accomplish for you, O child!'

"Aastika said, 'Let those Brahmanas, and other men, who shall, in the morning or in the evening, cheerfully and with attention, read the sacred account of this my act, have no fear from any of you.' The snakes in joy thereupon said, 'O nephew, in the nature of your boon, let it be exactly as you say. That which you ask we all shall cheerfully do, O nephew! Also, those that call to mind Aastika, Artiman and Sunitha, in the day or in the night, shall have no fear of snakes. He again shall have no fear of snakes who will say, 'I call to mind the famous Aastika born of Jaratkaaru, that Aastika who saved the snakes from the Sarpa Satra Therefore, O snakes of great good fortune, it is your duty not to bite me. But you go away, blessed be you, or you go away snake of deadly poison, and remember the words of Aastika after the Sarpa Satra of Janamejaya. That snake who does not stop from biting after hearing such mention of Aastika, shall have his hood divided a hundredfold like the fruit of Sinsa tree.'

"Soota continued, 'That first of Brahmanas (Rishi Aastika), thus addressed by the foremost of the chief snakes assembled together, was very much pleased. The high-souled one (Rishi Aastika) then set his heart upon going away.

"That best of Brahmanas (Rishi Aastika), having saved the snakes from the Sarpa Satra, ascended to heaven when his time came, leaving sons and grandsons behind him.

"Thus have I recited to you this history of Aastika exactly as it happened. Indeed, the recitation of this history (of Aastika) dispels all fear of snakes.

"Soota continued, "O Brahmanas, O foremost one of Bhrigu's race (Rishi Shaunaka), as your ancestor Pramaati had cheerfully narrated to his inquiring son Ruru (Refer Aadi Parva - Pauloma (Upa) Parva - Part 12), and as I had heard it, thus have I recited this blessed history, from the beginning, of the learned Aastika. O Brahmana (Rishi Shaunaka), O oppressor of all enemies, having heard this holy history of Aastika that increases Dharma, and which you had asked me about after hearing the story of the Dundubha, let your burning curiosity be satisfied.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AASTIKA (UPA) PARVA - PART 57

"(Rishi) Shaunaka said, 'O son of a Soota, I desire to hear the names of all those snakes that fell into the fire of this Sarpa Satra (snake-sacrifice)!'

"Soota replied, 'Many thousands and tens of thousands and billions of snakes fell into the fire. O most excellent Brahmana (Rishi Shaunaka), so great is the number that I am unable to count them all. So far, however, as I remember, hear the names I mention of the main snakes cast into the fire. Hear first the names of the principal ones of Vaasuki's race alone, of colour blue, red and white of terrible form and huge body and deadly poison. Helpless and miserable and pained with their mother's curse, they fell into the sacrificial Agni like libations of butter.

"Kotika, Maanasa, Purna, Saha, Paila Halisaka, Pichchala, Kaunapa, Chakra, Konavega, Prakaalana, Hiranyavaaha, Sharana, Kakshaka, Kaaladantaka--these snakes born of Vaasuki, fell into the fire. O Brahmana (Rishi Shaunaka), numerous other snakes well-born, and of terrible form and great strength, were burnt in the blazing fire.

"I shall now mention those born in the race of Takshaka. You hear their names. Puchchandaka, Mandalaka, Pindabheththaka, Rabhenaka, Uchochikha, Carava, Bhangas, Bilwatejas, Birohana; Sili, Salakara, Muka, Sukumara, Pravepana, Mudgara and Sishuroman, Suroman and Mahahanu. These snakes born of Takshaka fell into the fire.

"Paravata, Parijata, Pandara, Harina, Krisa, Vihanga, Sarabha, Meda, Pramoda, Sauhatapana--these born in the race of Airavata fell into the Agni. Now hear, O best of Brahmanas (Rishi Shaunaka), the names of the snakes I mention born in the race of Kauravya: Eraka, Kundala Veni, Veniskandha, Kumaraka, Bahuka, Sringavera, Dhurtaka, Pratara and Astaka. There born in the race of Kauravya fell into the fire.

"Now hear the names I mention, in order, of those snakes endued with the speed of the wind and with venomous poison, born in the race of Dhritarashtra: Shankukarna, Pitharaka, Kuthara, Sukhana, and Shechaka; Purnangada, Purnamukha, Prahasa, Shakuni, Dari, Amahatha, Kumathaka, Sushena, Vyaya, Bhairava, Mundavedanga, Pisanga, Udraparaka, Rishabha, Vegavat, Pindaraka; Raktanga, Sarvasaranga, Samriddha, Patha and Vasaka; Varahaka, Viranaka, Suchitra, Chitravegika, Parasara, Tarunaka, Maniskandha and Aruni.

"O Brahmana (Rishi Shaunaka), I have thus recited the names of the principal snakes known widely for their achievements--I have not been able to name all, the number being countless. The sons of these snakes, the sons of those sons, that were burnt having fallen into the Agni, I am unable to mention. They are so many! Some of three heads, some of seven, others of ten, of poison like to the fire at the end of the yuga and terrible in form,--they were burnt by thousands!

"Many others, of huge bodies, of great speed, tall as mountain summits, of the length of a yama, of a yojana, and of two yojanas, capable of assuming at will any form and of mastering at will any degree of strength, of poison like to blazing fire, pained by the curse of a mother, were burnt in that great yagna.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AASTIKA (UPA) PARVA - PART 56

"Janamejaya said, 'Though this one is but a boy, he speaks yet like a wise old man. He is not a boy but one wise and old. I think, I desire to gift on him a boon. Therefore, O Brahmanas, give me the necessary permission.'

"The Sadasyas said, 'A Brahmana, though a boy, deserves the respect of kings. The learned ones do more so. This boy deserves every desire of his being fulfilled by you, but not before Takshaka comes with speed.'

"Soota continued, 'The king (Janamejaya), being inclined to grant the Brahmana a boon, said 'You ask a boon.' The Hotri, however, being rather displeased, said, 'Takshaka has not come as yet into this yagna.'

"Janamejaya replied, 'You exert to the best of your might, so that this yagna of mine may attain completion, and Takshaka also may soon come here. He is my enemy.'

"The Ritwiks replied, 'As the Shastras declare to us, and as the Agni also say, O monarch, (it seems that) Takshaka is now staying in the abode of (Lord) Indra, pained with fear.'

"Soota continued, 'The illustrious Soota (Soota caste person) named Lohitaksha also, familiar with the Puranas, had said so before.

"Asked by the king (Janamejaya) on the present occasion he (Lohitaksha) again told the monarch, 'Sire, it is so as the Brahmanas have said--Knowing the Puranas, I say, O monarch, that (Lord) Indra has granted him (Takshaka) this boon, saying, 'Stay with me in concealment, and Agni shall not burn you.'

"Soota continued, 'Hearing this, the king (Janamejaya) installed in the yagna became very sorry and urged the Hotri to do his duty. As the Hotri, with mantras, began to pour clarified butter into the Agni, (Lord) Indra Himself appeared on the scene. The illustrious one (Lord Indra) came in his chariot, adorned by all Devas standing around, followed by masses of clouds, divine singers, and the several groups of divine dancing girls (Apsaras in Sanskrit).

"Takshaka anxious with fear, hid himself in the upper garment of (Lord) Indra and was not visible. Then the king (Janamejaya) in his anger again said to his mantra-knowing Brahmanas these words, bent upon the destruction of Takshaka, 'If the snake Takshaka be in the abode of (Lord) Indra, put him into the fire with (Lord) Indra Himself.'

"Soota continued, 'Urged thus by the king Janamejaya about Takshaka, the Hotri poured libations (into Agni), naming that snake then staying there. As the libations were poured, Takshaka, with Purandara (Lord Indra) Himself, anxious and pained, became visible in a moment in the skies. Then Purandara (Lord Indra), seeing that yagna, became much alarmed, and quickly removing Takshaka off, went back to his own abode (Indraloka). After (Lord) Indra had gone away, Takshaka, the prince of snakes, insensible with fear, was by virtue of the mantras, brought near enough the flames of the sacrificial Agni.'

"The Ritwiks then said, 'O king of kings, the yagna of your is being performed duly. It is your responsibility, O Lord (Janamejaya), to grant a boon now to this first of Brahmanas (Aastika).'

"Janamejaya then said, 'O immeasurable one of such handsome and child-like features, I desire to grant you a worthy boon. Therefore, you ask that which you desire in your heart. I promise you, that I will grant it even if it be ungrantable.'

'The Ritwiks said, 'O monarch, look, Takshaka is soon coming under your control! His terrible cries, and loud roar is being heard. Assuredly, the snake (Takshaka) has been forsaken by the wielder of Vajra (Lord Indra). His body being disabled by your mantras, he is falling from heaven. Now, rolling in the skies, and deprived of consciousness, the prince of snakes (Takshaka) comes, breathing loudly.'

"Soota continued, "While Takshaka, the prince of snakes, was about to fall into the sacrificial Agni, during those few moments Aastika spoke as follows, 'O Janamejaya, if you would grant me a boon, let this yagna of yours come to an end and let no more snakes fall into the fire (Agni in Sanskrit).'

"O Brahmana (Rishi Shaunaka), the son of Parikshit (Janamejaya), being thus addressed by Aastika, became exceedingly sorry and replied to Aastika thus, 'O illustrious one, gold, silver, cows, whatever other possessions you desire I shall give to you. But let not my yagna come to an end.'

"Aastika immediately replied, 'Gold, silver or cows, I do not ask of you, O monarch! But let your yagna be ended so that my maternal relations be relieved.'

"Soota continued, 'The son of Parikshit (Janamejaya), being thus addressed by Aastika, repeatedly said this to that foremost of speakers, 'Best of the Brahmanas, ask some other boon. O, blessed be you!' But, O you of Bhrigu's race (Rishi Shaunaka), he did not ask any other boon. Then all the Sadasyas familiar with the Vedas told the king in one voice, 'Let the Brahmana receive his boon!'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AASTIKA (UPA) PARVA - PART 55

"Aastika said, 'Soma, Varuna and Prajapati performed yagna in ancient time in Prayaaga. But your yagna, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Parikshit, is not inferior to any of those. Let those dear to us be blessed! 

"Shakra (Lord Indra) performed a hundred yagnas. But this yagna of yours, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Parikshit (Janamejaya), is fully equal to ten thousand yagnas of Shakra (Lord Indra). Let those dear to us be blessed!

"Like the yagna of Yama, of Harimedha, or of king Rantideva, is the yagna of yours, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Parikshit. Let those dear to us be blessed!

"Like the yagna of Maayaa, of king Shashavindu, or of king Vaishravana, is this yagna of yours, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Satyavati, in which he himself was the chief priest, is this yagna of Nriga, of Ajamida, of the son of Dasaratha, is this yagna of yours, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Parikshit. Let those dear to us be blessed!

"Like the yagna of king Yudhishthira, the son of a Deva and belonging to Ajamida race, heard of (even) in the heavens, is this yagna of yours, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Parikshit, let those dear to us be blessed!

"Like the yagna of Krishna (Dwaipayana also known as Maharishi Veda Vyasa), the son of Satyavati, in which he himself was the chief priest, is this yagna of yours, O foremost one of Bharata's race, O son of Parikshit. Let those dear unto us be blessed!

"These (Ritwiks and Sadasyas) that are here engaged in making your yagna, like to that of the slayer of Vritra (Lord Indra), are of splendour equal to that of the Sun. There now remains nothing for them to know, and gifts made to them become inexhaustible (in merit). It is my conviction that there is no Ritwik in all the worlds who is equal to your Ritwik, Dwaipayana (Maharishi Veda Vyasa). His disciples, becoming Ritwiks, capable for their duties, travel over the earth. The high-souled bearer of libation (viz., Agni), also called Vibhaavasu and Chitrabhaanu, having gold for his vital seed and having his path, marked by black smoke, blazing up with flames inclined to the right, bears these your libations of clarified butter to Devas.

"In this world of men there is no other monarch equal to you in the protection of subjects. I am ever well-pleased with your abstinence. Indeed, you are either Varuna, or Yama, the Dharmadeva. Like Shakra (Lord Indra) Himself, Vajra in hand, you are, in this world, the protector of all creatures. In this earth, there is no man so great as you and no monarch who is your equal in yagna.

"You are like Khatwanga, Nabhaga, and Dilipa. In skills, you are like Yayati and Mandhatri. In splendour equal to the Sun, and of excellent vows, you are O monarch, like Bhishma! Like Valmiki you are of energy concealed. Like Vasishtha, you have controlled your wrath. Like (Lord) Indra is your lordship. Your splendour also shines like that of (Lord) Narayana. Like Yama, you are familiar with the order of justice. You are like (Sri) Krishna adorned with every Dharma. You are the home of the good fortune that belongs to the Vasus. You are also the refuge of the yagnas. In strength, you are equal to Dambhodbhava. Like (Parasu) Rama, you are familiar with the scriptures and arms. In energy, you are equal to Aurva and Trita. You inspire terror by your looks like Bhagiratha.'

"Soota said, 'Aastika, having thus adored them, pleased them all, viz., the king, the Sadasyas, the Ritwiks and the yagna Agni. King Janamejaya seeing the signs and indications manifested all around, addressed them as follows.'"

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA - AADI PARVA - AASTIKA (UPA) PARVA - PART 54

"Soota said, 'Then the snake-woman Jaratkaaru, calling her own son (Aastika), told him the following words according to the directions of Vaasuki, the king of the snakes. 'O son, the time is come for the accomplishment of that object for which I was given on your father (Rishi Jaratkaaru) by my brother (Vaasuki). Therefore, you do that which should be done.'

"Aastika asked, 'Why were you, O mother, given on my father by my uncle? Tell me all truly so that on hearing it, I may do what is proper.'

"Then Jaratkaaru, the sister of the king of the snakes (Vaasuki), herself unmoved by the general suffering, and desirous of the welfare of her relatives, said to him, 'O son, it is said that the mother of all the snakes is Kadru. You know why she cursed in anger her sons.' 

"Addressing the snakes she (Kadru) said, 'As you have refused to falsely represent Uchchaihsravas, the prince of horses, for bringing about Vinata's (Kadru's own sister) slavery according to the bet, therefore, shall he whose charioteer is Vaayu (Agni is the one whose charioteer is Vaayu) burn you all in Janamejaya's yagna. Perishing in that yagna, you shall go to the region of the unredeemed spirits.'

"The Pitamaha (Lord Brahma) of all the worlds spoke to her while uttering this curse, 'Be it so,' and thus approved of her (Kadru's) speech. O child (Aastika), Vaasuki, having heard that curse and then the words of the Pitamaha, sought the protection of Devas, on the occasion when the Amrita was being churned for. Devas, their object fulfilled, for they had obtained the excellent Amrita, with Vasuki ahead, approached the Pitamaha. All Devas, with king Vasuki, sought to incline Him (Lord Brahma) who was born of the lotus to be favourable, so that the curse might be made unsuccessful.'

"Devas said, 'O Lord (Brahma), Vaasuki, the king of the snakes, is sorry on account of his relatives. How may his mother's curse prove unsuccessful?'

"(Lord) Brahma immediately replied, saying, '(Rishi) Jaratkaaru will take to himself a wife of the name of Jaratkaaru; the Brahmana born of her (Vaasuki's sister Jaratkaaru) will relieve the snakes.'

"O thou of godlike looks (Aastika), Vaasuki, the best of snakes, hearing those words, gave me, on your high-souled father some time before the commencement of the yagna (Sarpa Satra). From that marriage, you are born of me. That time has come. It is your duty to protect us from this danger. It is your duty to protect my brother (Vaasuki) and myself from the fire, so that the object, viz., our relief, for which I was given on your wise father, may not be unfulfilled. What do you think, O son?'

"Soota continued, 'Thus addressed, Aastika said to his mother, 'Yes, I will.' He then addressed the pained Vaasuki, and as if infusing life into him, said, 'O Vaasuki, O best of snakes, O great being, truly do I say, I shall relieve you from that curse. Be easy, O Naagaa (snake in English)! There is no fear any longer. I shall strive seriously so that good may come! Nobody has ever said that my speech, even in joke, has proved false. Hence on serious occasions like this, I need not say anything more, O uncle, going there today I shall please, with words mixed with blessings, the monarch Janamejaya installed at the yagna (Sarpa Satra), so that, O excellent one, the yagna may stop. O highminded one, O king of the snakes, believe all that I say. Believe me, my determination can never be unfulfilled.'

"Vaasuki then said, 'O Aastika, my head swims and my heart breaks. I cannot notice the points of the earth, as I am pained with a mother's curse.'

"Aastika said, 'O best of snakes, it is your duty not to grieve any longer. I shall remove this fear of yours from the blazing fire. This terrible punishment, capable of burning like the fire at the end of the Yuga, I shall extinguish. Do not nurse your fear any longer.'

"Soota continued, 'Then that best of Brahmanas, Aastika, calmed the terrible fear of the Vasuki's heart, and taking it, as it were, on himself, walked, for the relief of the king of the snakes, with speed to Janamejaya's yagna blessed with every merit. Aastika having gone tere, saw the excellent yagna compound with numerous Sadasyas on it whose splendour was like to that of the Sun or Agni. But that best of Brahmanas (Aastika) was refused admittance by the door-keepers. The mighty Rishi (Aastika) gratified them (doorkeepers), being desirous of entering the yagna compound. That best of Brahmanas (Aastika), that foremost of all Dharmic men, having entered the excellent yagna compound, began to adore the king (Janamejaya) of infinite achievements, Ritwiks, the Sadasyas, and also the sacred Agni.'"