In the ancient kingdom of the demons, there lived a righteous and benevolent king named Bali. Known for his unmatched generosity and commitment to his people, King Bali also known as Mahabali was revered far and wide. His rule was marked by prosperity and harmony, but his greatest virtue was his humility.
King Bali and Vamana Avtar
One day, a young and radiant Brahmin named Vamana arrived at Bali’s court. Disguised as a humble ascetic, Vamana sought a boon from the generous king. He requested land – specifically, the space he could cover in three steps. Smiling, Bali granted the seemingly small request without a second thought.
Suddenly, the unassuming Brahmin transformed into the magnificent deity Vishnu in his Vamana avatar. With the first step, he covered the Earth. With the second, he encompassed the heavens. Astonished, Bali realized he had offered much more than he imagined. Vamana, now a towering figure, posed a question: “Where do I place my third step, O King?”
In a moment that defined his greatness, Raja Bali knelt before Vamana and offered his own head, acknowledging the Lord’s supremacy. Vishnu was moved by Bali’s humility and devotion. In response, he granted Bali a unique boon. He became the protector of the netherworld, known as Sutala, and Vishnu vowed to reside alongside him as his doorman.
The tale of Bali’s sacrifice and Vishnu’s grace became an eternal testament to devotion and humility. This tale is beautifully echoed in the sacred raksha mantra:
“येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबल:। तेन त्वा प्रतिबध्नामि रक्षे मा चल माचलःl”
This mantra, derived from the ancient verses of Kalidasa, holds the essence of King Bali’s story. It invokes the power of protection, inspired by the king’s unyielding devotion to righteousness and his willingness to bow before the divine.
Raksha Bandhan and Raksha Mantra
As Raksha Bandhan, the festival of protection, approached, families across the land gathered. Sisters tied sacred threads on their brothers’ wrists, symbolizing the vow of safeguarding. This tradition beautifully mirrored Bali’s promise to protect his people and his humility before the divine.
On raksha bandhan, the sacred raksha mantra “येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबल:। तेन त्वा प्रतिबध्नामि रक्षे मा चल माचलःl” chanted.
Raksha mantra in english: “yen baddho bali raja danavendro mahabalah। ten twa pratibadhnami rakshe ma chal machalah।।
Today, the legacy of King Bali and Vamana Avatar continues to inspire generations. Just as Bali’s selflessness earned him the grace of the divine, this mantra encourages us to seek protection through inner strength and a humble heart. It teaches us that in a world of fleeting distractions, true security lies in unwavering commitment and spiritual insight.
In essence, the story of King Bali, Vamana Avatar, and the sacred mantra embodies the timeless principles of devotion, humility, and protection. It reminds us that beneath the layers of worldly pursuits, lies the power to safeguard our journey through life – a power that resonates through the very essence of our being.
Also Read: The Legend of King Bali and the Timeless Festival of Onam
