#bhudevi

This OS was something I visualized as I was returning home and listening to the song, and thought to write it as a vignette, essentially. They are SatyabhamaShyam in the modern world, and if you want, I can make this a series of OS'.

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Maadhavi was sweating in the sultry heat of the Sun. She was in an auto, exasperated at the slow moving traffic. She was on her way back home after a grueling dance class, lasting about three hours. She needed a long shower, despite having taken a quick one at dance class and changing into brand new clothes. The Sun made it even harder, as she gently wiped the sweat away from her neck. She fiddled with her phone, choosing a random romantic song, sighing softly. Every song reminded her of her Krishna, as always.

As the song she was listening to neared its end, she peered out of the auto, her eyes landing on the car next to her. Her breath caught in her throat when her eyes met dark chocolate brown ones, which also widened the smallest amount in response to her. She could feel her heart flutter in her chest, and a shiver run down her spine. Those eyes, she knew those eyes.

Aankhon mein teri, ajab si ajab si adaayein hai

Indeed there was something so stunningly graceful about his eyes, about his gaze. It was all penetrating, yet very gentle and questioning, as if needing her acceptance to just gaze. She blushed at the hope in his eyes, and prayed her answer got translated to him.

Dil ko banade jo patang saasein yeh teri woh hawaayein hai

He had gotten her acceptance, for his gaze was on her, unwavering, making her turn redder than the tomato that she loved eating often. She knew she too was staring, but she was not even able to stop herself.

There, in the middle of a typical Chennai traffic, as the vehicles moved inch by inch, Maadhavi had found the one who made her heart breath new lives, somehow.

Aankhon mein teri, ajab si ajab si adaayein hai

Maadhavi wondered what he was thinking, and when she got so shameless with staring at a guy. That thought alone pulled her back and she looked down shyly, though her eyes sprung back to the man in passenger seat, whose eyes had not moved an inch from her, clearly.

***

Aai aisi raat hai joh bahut khushnaseeb hai

chaahe jisse dur se suniya vo mere khareeb hai

While it was not night, the day was heading there. Dusk was fast approaching, and this was when Shyam had spotted the young woman in the auto. He had first glanced at her because he could feel the familiarity. But when she too turned to look at him, as if in a synchronized set of events, Shyam had frozen. Those eyes were filled with warmth, forgiveness and acceptance, and they reminded him of the eyes which lived in his dreams and memories. He could not even move his eyes, nor did he want to.

To him, she was the one who would be wanted by people even without her knowledge, her radiance told him as much. But here she was, in the vehicle next to his. He ignored his smirking elder brother, and just allowed his hidden romantic to take over, observing every little action of hers.

Kitna kuch kehna hai phir bhi hai dil mein sawaal kahi

Sapno mein joh roz kaha hai woh phirse kahun yaa nahi

His heart was thrumming with a melodious sound created by the contact of their eyes, Shyam felt. He could not bear to look away. He smiled softly when she did, her round cheeks red, a blush that spread at least up to her neck. Her eyes again peered at him, causing his heart to now sing happily. He tried to silence it, but he was used to accepting life as it happened, so he settled, allowing the course of Destiny to dictate the happenings.

Aankhon mein teri ajab si ajab si adaayein hai

***

Tere saath saath aisa koi noor aaya hai

He had become the light that shone magnificently as the sun approached the West. Maadhavi could not believe she was still caught in traffic, and still gazing at the same man. His eyes felt like her Krishna's, his smile too felt familiar, and the gentle warmth he spread touched her very soul, making her smile in response, a radiant smile at the joy his warmth spread within.

chand teri roshni ka halka sa ek saaya hai

Shyam knew that not even the romance of the moonlight could touch the splendid nature of the light her heart radiated. The purity of her showed on her beautiful face, which had a gentle yet obvious jawline, framing a round face like the moon, lotus petal eyes, red lips, and skin that seemed to be both golden and dusky at the same time. His eyes though were drawn repeatedly to her light coloured orbs, which reflected the Sun to him. Yet the depth in them felt like his own Soul.

teri nazaron ne dil ka kiya jo hashar asar yeh hua

ab in mein bhi doob ke ho jaon paar yahi hai hua

Maadhavi and Shyam both jerked when they realized the traffic had started moving. It felt as if the traffic had stopped miraculously so that they could see each other, and now that it had happened, there was sudden movement. But she was not ready to let go. Maadhavi wanted to drown herself in his eyes, and she prayed under her breath, "Krishna, may we unite soon."

Shyam, on the other hand, was feeling his heart beat a little off track, as if not wanting to separate and yet having to. He gazed at her, trying to take her in to the maximum he could, as both the vehicles started to speed. He knew they would meet again soon, he just knew. Till then, he could wait.

"Mahadeva, may my meeting her again happen soon."

The two hearts, which had recognized each other that day, were parted by the movement of life and time; but both souls, which had been exchanged by the medium of two pairs of eyes, awaited eagerly for the day where they could converse freely once more.

******

This is probably the first song fic I have written entirely, and that I posted as well. It has a special place in my heart.

I do have more song fics coming, especially for modern reincarnations, of a wide variety of pairs.

Satyabhama Maiya is the strict Mother who won't think twice about slapping some sense into you

I won't elaborate further.

Source

The Varaha Avatar is one of the most intriguing and revered forms of Lord Vishnu. An incarnation that showcases the deity’s boundless compassion and omnipotence. The story of Varaha Avatar tells of Vishnu’s divine intervention to rescue the Earth (Bhumi) from the clutches of the demon Hiranyaksha, and it is a tale of cosmic struggle, divine strength, and ultimate restoration of order in the universe.

The Cosmic Balance: The Earth in Peril

In Hindu literature, the Earth (known as Bhumi Devi) is often personified as a goddess, revered as the mother of all beings. She is a vital part of the universe’s ecosystem, symbolizing fertility, stability, and the nurturing aspect of nature. However, during a period when the forces of chaos were on the rise, the Bhumi devi found herself in grave peril. The demon Hiranyaksha, whose power was immense and ever-growing, decided to take control of Bhumi. Desiring to dominate the entire cosmos, he dragged the Bhu devi to the depths of the primordial ocean, submerging it and plunging the world into darkness and despair.

This catastrophic event disrupted the natural order, leaving the heavens in turmoil. The gods, unable to restore the Bhu devi to its rightful place, turned to Lord Vishnu, the protector and preserver of the universe. In his infinite wisdom and boundless compassion, Sri Vishnu understood that only a divine intervention could save Bhumi from the demon’s tyranny.

The Story of Varaha

The story of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, is a crucial episode in Hindu literature, particularly described in the Puranas. Varaha, the third avatar of Vishnu, is depicted as a wild boar that rescues Bhumi devi, personified as Bhumi, from the demon Hiranyaksha, who had submerged it in the cosmic ocean.

Hiranyaksha was the son of the sage Kashyapa and the asura Diti. Having performed severe austerities to Brahma, he obtained a boon that made him invulnerable to death at the hands of gods, men, or beasts. With this boon, Hiranyaksha became a powerful force, and in his arrogance, he pulled Bhudevi deep into the cosmic waters, taking her to the underworld (Patala), thereby disrupting the natural balance.

The gods, including Indra and Brahma, called upon Sri Vishnu to save Bhumi and defeat the demon. To save Bhumi devi, Lord Vishnu manifested as Varaha, a boar with immense strength and power. In this form, Sri Vishnu descended into the cosmic ocean, where a fierce battle ensued between him and Hiranyaksha. Hiranyaksha, full of arrogance, tried to stop Lord Vishnu, but Varaha overpowered him. Ultimately, Vishnu slayed Hiranyaksha with his tusks, rescuing the Earth and placing it back in its rightful position in the cosmos.

The boar form of Sri Vishnu is not a later creation but has its roots in the Vedic texts, such as the Rigveda and Taittiriya Samhita. In early Vedic thought, a boar is connected to the creation myth. The boar form is associated with Prajapati, a creator deity, who is said to have assumed the shape of a boar to lift the Earth from the cosmic waters. Over time, the boar became an avatar of Lord Vishnu, symbolizing his cosmic role in both creation and preservation.

The Varaha Avatar not only represents the physical rescue of Earth but also has deeper symbolic meanings. In the Brahmanda Purana, Varaha is described as possessing cosmic significance. His tusks are linked to the Vedas and sacrificial rites, while his other features represent various aspects of the yajna (sacrifice) process. The narrative connects Varaha with themes of cosmic order, sacrifice, and the restoration of balance in the universe.

In the battle between Varaha and Hiranyaksha, Varaha proves his superiority not just through physical might but also through the divine power of Sri Vishnu. The war is depicted in many texts, including the Lord Vishnu Purana, Padma Purana, and Agni Purana. Hiranyaksha, in his attempts to challenge Varaha, even mocks the boar form, but eventually, Varaha triumphs. After the battle, Sri Vishnu, in his boar form, lifts the Earth and restores it to its rightful place, once again stabilizing the universe.

The Varaha Avatar is a tale of divine intervention, where Sri Vishnu takes the form of a boar to restore balance in the world. His battle with Hiranyaksha represents the eternal struggle between good and evil, with Lord Vishnu emerging victorious in his boar incarnation. Varaha not only rescues the Earth but also embodies the symbolic restoration of cosmic order, demonstrating the protective and sustaining nature of Sri Vishnu in the face of demonic forces.

Bhumi's Gratitude and the Significance of the Varaha Avatar

Once the Bhuni devi was returned to its rightful place, Bhumi Devi, the personification of the Earth, expressed her immense gratitude to Vishnu for saving her from the demon’s clutches. In her appreciation, Bhumi offered Vishnu praises, acknowledging his selfless act of protection. The tale of Vishnu’s Varaha Avatar is not just about defeating a demon; it also emphasizes the importance of devotion, faith, and divine grace in restoring balance to the world. The Varaha Avatar also holds great significance in the broader context of Vishnu’s Dashavatara. Each incarnation of Vishnu is an expression of his divine role as the protector of the universe, and each avatar serves a unique purpose. The Varaha Avatar, with its emphasis on the physical restoration of the Earth, highlights Vishnu’s role in both preserving the natural world and ensuring that cosmic balance is never lost, even in times of extreme adversity. 

The Iconography of Vishnu’s third avatar, Varaha

The iconography of Vishnu’s third avatar, Varaha, is both rich and vibrant, reflecting the diverse traditions and stories surrounding him. Varaha is often depicted in two primary forms: as a wild boar (zoomorphic) or as a blend of human and boar (anthropomorphic). In the zoomorphic form, Varaha is shown as a mighty boar who courageously rescues the Earth from the cosmic ocean, where it had been submerged by the demon Hiranyaksha. This portrayal highlights his role as a fierce protector, carrying the Earth on his tusks to restore balance. In contrast, the anthropomorphic form depicts Varaha with a human body and the head of a boar. This unique depiction blends human strength and animal instinct, much like Vishnu’s other avatar, Narasimha, who combines the form of a lion and man. Unlike earlier avatars like Matsya (the fish) and Kurma (the turtle), which have only partial animal features, Varaha is one of the first to maintain a fully human torso with a boar’s head, making him especially distinctive.

Varaha is often shown in a powerful, combative stance called alidha, with one leg straight and the other bent. His presence is deeply rooted in cosmic symbolism, as he is frequently depicted standing on the serpent Shesha, which represents the stability of the universe. With one foot placed on Shesha’s hood and his other foot on a turtle, he embodies the balance of all elements in creation. In his four hands, Varaha holds objects filled with meaning: a mace (gada) to symbolize strength, a conch (shankha) representing the eternal sound of the cosmos, a discus (chakra) to vanquish evil, and a lotus (padma), which reflects purity and beauty. Often, Varaha is shown with the Earth goddess, Bhudevi, either resting on his tusks or in his lap, symbolizing his role in protecting and uplifting the Earth, a gesture that connects him deeply to the restoration of cosmic harmony.

In addition to these physical attributes, Varaha’s hand gestures (mudras) further express his divine qualities. The abhayamudra, or gesture of reassurance, is a common feature, representing his promise of safety and protection to his devotees. The varadamudra, a gesture of blessing, signifies his capacity to grant boons and favors to those who seek his grace. Some texts even describe Varaha’s form as golden or resplendent, highlighting his radiant divinity. He is often depicted wearing yellow garments, with the Kaustubha jewel and the Srivatsa symbol adorning his chest, symbols of divine wealth and auspiciousness. Additional weapons like a sword or javelin may also be seen in his hands, emphasizing his warrior-like qualities as he combats evil forces.

At its heart, Varaha’s iconography speaks to his role as a protector, a restorer of balance, and a beacon of cosmic wisdom. His imagery reminds us of the triumph of divine power over adversity, and his presence is closely tied to the preservation of the Earth and all life within it. Varaha is not just a symbol of divine intervention but a reminder of the eternal wisdom, wealth, and protection that sustains our world. Worship of Varaha is often associated with prosperity, spiritual growth, and the restoration of cosmic harmony, making him a beloved deity who brings light and stability to the universe.

Conclusion:

The Varaha Avatar of Lord Vishnu stands as a powerful symbol of divine intervention, cosmic balance, and the triumph of good over evil. Through his incarnation as a boar, Vishnu not only rescues the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha but also reaffirms the eternal principle that the divine will always restore order when chaos threatens the harmony of the universe. The Varaha Avatar teaches us that no force of evil can ever triumph over the protective and sustaining power of the divine.

As we reflect on the Varaha Avatar and its deeper spiritual significance, it also becomes a source of artistic inspiration. The vivid imagery and symbolism of Varaha have long been celebrated in various forms of art, capturing the essence of this powerful incarnation. Whether through statues, paintings, or other artistic representations, these depictions serve as a reminder of Vishnu’s protective nature and the eternal struggle for cosmic balance. For those interested in exploring this divine form through art, there are many beautiful representations of Varaha that can connect us further to the sacred story.

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Rukmini and Satyabhama spare some time with each other in Dvaraka, post a work day.

When Suryanarayana's chariot rode below the horizon in the city of gates, the shades of saffron and dark mingling in one against the canvas of the welkin glimmered against the fair visage of the Narayani, the chief among the Ashtapatni of Keshava, who blessed the sun lord once before the lunar god arrived for his shift.

Rukmini's smile exuded the semblance of a fully bloomed water lily, bright pink and one dripping honey, much like her lotus eyes that crinkled in merry. Rolling back the dried scrolls, she interlocked her slender fingers against each other and gave a stretch, yawning with tears clinging to the corner of her eyes and a half-fatigued look eclipsing her usual Chanchala-ness.

Something swished against the shadows of Dvaravati castle's cloisters forged with finesse, quick to gain her attention. It played around on the whims of Vayu before a hand smothered it, deliberately camouflaging in the silence and semi-murk of the eventide. Krishnatmika frowned momentarily, eyebrows puckering before they rose again in glee. Grinning from ear to ear, she languidly shifted again in her seat, craning her neck to get a better look at whatever shenanigans Bhulakshmi was now upto.

"Ayi, I am not Bhanu to accompany his father in their monkey business. I am his mother, Rukku Jiji!" The unladly-like squeak that then addressed her, had Vaidarbhi doubling over as a pouting Satyabhama stepped out of the shadows; her hands on her hips with a look of betrayal and disbelief on her countenance.

"Very well, it's you after Kanha I see." She snorted, adding fuel to the mirth of her elder co-wife whose shoulders trembled by the laughter she tried subduing but to no avail.

"Aww, darling little Bhame, please have a seat. How may I assist you, my queen?" Rukmini pursed her lips, pushing back her amusement as Satyabhama rolled her eyes once more, shaking her head fondly; headstrong on maintaining the pseudo act of being offended but failed eventually. The latter moved around in unrushed steps, stationing more oil lamps in the corners of the council hall that contained no one but them for then, murmuring a hymn to the goddess of time.

"Samba was asking for his Jyeshtha Maa. Jamba Jiji told him she's got a more darling child," Satyabhama giggled while spinning on her heels, as a horrified Rukmini felt bad for snickering again. "He's been ceaselessly wailing like a typical child since, and needless to say, Yamuna's enjoying it. She even teased him for his other favourite Maa's too busy with Satyaa's little one." She mimicked the lisp of the Krishnaputra in the end, an exasperating amusement in her demeanour as Rukmini for the perhaps the first time in her life, was at a loss of words.

"Leave you, it's Kalindi who has unofficially vowed to not let me live in peace for once."

"No no, that designation is mine. I'll fight Yama to have his twin in place you see."

A short snug silence filled their space, an ecstasy in their hearts as was their nature. Satyabhama returned to Rukmini with a dramatic look of conflict in her eyes and a bowl of heated oil in her hand.

Bhudevi seated herself on a couch placed at a corner, before enthroning Rukmini's head on her lap, letting the latter's tresses loose to sprawl around like tendrils of forest vegetation, jasmine flowers caged in them at irregular intervals. The vermillion smeared forehead of the princess of Shrikshetra gave the image of the sun itself, eyes like stars curtained with a thin stretch of coral tinctured flesh. She was as precious to Madhava as the moon was to the poets, her bracing aura eternally enrapturing the patron of sustenance.

Prathama Dvarakeshvari studied the half-glare thrown her way before blinking, hauling her soul sister from the reverie of admiration she retained for her, "What are you looking at, Bhame?"

"On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do I love you for not pulling your ears for being late, big sister?" Varahi shook her head from side to side, experiencing irk and affection at once.

Krishnatmika flushed sheepishly before cheekily smiling as a pair of fingers slid in her scalp, the empyrean aroma of camphor infused almond oil wafting in the air around and having her almost melt like butter, "10 on 10, Vasundhare. You'll punish me, your beloved Shri? Will you not think of my darling ears?"

Satyabhama continued with her work, her doting eyes softening further as she felt Rukmini gradually flop, exhaling a sigh of relief and burying her face in the former's lap, "I shall have you locked away from the council for a week, do not forget that Mata Kokila's ferral cat is here to endorse and assist my shenanigans too."

'This scion of the flames is beholden to your majesty for thy exquisite choice of words recounting my magnificence, Shri Shri Dvaraka Maharani. It's a shame I am not as competent as you in terms of analogies and vocabulary. Grant this servant with leniency, good lady.’ A mordant smile flashed from the other end of the mind bond as Satyabhama bowed in her sitting position, putting a hand on her chest in comic gratitude.

'You're welcome and pardoned, peasant.'

Rukmini smiled again, thoroughly relishing the repartee as the other Bharyas too joined in from different parts of the castle itself, each with more audacious, either too advanced or lame humoured responses to the other's teasing.