येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबलः।
तेन त्वाम् अभिबध्नामि रक्षे मा चल मा चल॥
Which means, “I am tying on your hand this Raksha (amulet), with which the most powerful and generous King Bali himself was bound. O Raksha don’t go away; don’t go away”.
In most of the households, you must have heard your family priest uttering this mantra while tying a Raksha Sutra, especially on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. But have you ever thought the significance of the same? Do you know the connection of this mantra with our Raksha Bandhan?
Namaste everyone, and today you shall know the significance of this mantra, as well as the story behind it!
The story of Raja Mahabali
There are multiple origins stories regarding how the festival of Raksha Bandhan started. However, the one regarding Mahabali and Bhagwan Vishnu is the most intriguing.
The tale of begins with Mahabali, a noble Asura King, who is also the grandson of Prahlada. Renowned for his benevolent rule, Mahabali was deeply loved by his subjects. Under his leadership, his people experienced an era of profound happiness and prosperity.
Mahabali’s wisdom was cultivated through teachings in the Vedas from his grandfather Prahlada and subsequently from his mentor Shukracharya. Shukracharya’s remarkable power even revived Mahabali after he was vanquished by Indra, the King of the Gods, following the churning of the ocean and the Devas’ acquisition of Amrit (nectar of immortality).
Driven by his righteous nature and devotion to Lord Vishnu, Mahabali’s prowess expanded until he triumphed over the three lokas. He seized dominion over the heavens by defeating Indra. Remarkably, despite his victories, Mahabali remained steadfast in his virtuous path.
Shukracharya, recognizing Mahabali’s potential, approached him with a momentous proposition. He advised, “Bali, having conquered the three worlds, your reign can be everlasting if you perform 100 Ashwamedha Yagnas.” Shukracharya emphasized that such a profound ritual would befit a ruler of his stature and secure his reign over the three lokas.
Also read: The significance of Rakshabandhan in Sanatan Dharma
How Bhagwan Vishnu overcame Mahabali
After suffering defeat at the hands of Mahabali, Indra, the King of the Gods, turned to his mother, Aditi, for help. In a tough situation, Aditi called upon Bhagwan Vishnu for aid. When she shared her worries, Vishnu smiled and reassured her of all possible help. This is how Vamana Avatar came into existence.
Vamana, a radiant and knowledgeable boy, was born with a purpose. Bhagwan Vishnu had even shared a surprising revelation with Aditi: “Bali is not a threat. He is destined to become Indra.” Aditi was taken aback but Vishnu added, “Not right away, though. It will happen later.” This revelation unveils that Indra is not a permanent person but rather a position that can change in the Deva Loka.
Meanwhile, Mahabali had nearly completed 99 Ashwamedha Yagnas, needing just one more to become the Devon ke Dev [King of all Devas]. As the final Yagna approached its conclusion, a handsome dark boy, who seemed to possess all the knowledge in the world, approached the throne.
Feeling a strong connection, Mahabali stood and offered his throne to the boy, expressing his love and respect. However, Guru Shukracharya sensed something amiss and warned Mahabali that the boy was actually Bhagwan Vishnu in disguise. He urged Mahabali not to proceed.
However, it seemed that Mahabali heard only part of his Guru’s warning, he was determined to fulfill the wishes of the divine guest. When Vamana, the dark boy, asked for three steps of land, Mahabali was surprised. This seemed too simple, since he expected much more, even his life, and he was almost amused. He agreed readily.
However, as soon as Mahabali uttered his agreement, the boy began to grow. He grew to an enormous size, and in just two steps, he measured the earth and the skies. Mahabali was awestruck by the transformation, realizing that he was in the presence of something extraordinary.
Vamana then questioned Mahabali, “Where shall I place my third step?” Remaining true to his word, Mahabali offered his own head for the third step. Vamana accepted, and with his third step on Mahabali’s head, the Asura King was sent to the netherworld, the Patal Lok.
Why Vishnu was overwhelmed by Bali’s devotion
The Devas were naturally ecstatic after regaining the Devaloka. However, Bhagwan Vishnu was not entirely pleased. He was concerned about his devoted disciple, Mahabali, who remained in the netherworld. Mahabali had unwaveringly stood by his word and faced his Guru’s caution.
Meanwhile, Mahabali found contentment with what he had. He didn’t lament his situation. He had served his Prabhu and honored his promise. One day, a strong and dark man approached him. This man offered to be Mahabali’s protector and joined his army.
Not long after, a graceful and powerful woman approached Mahabali. She requested his protection, explaining that her husband was away on errands. Touched by her plea, Mahabali treated her as a sister and welcomed her into his palace.
One day, Mahabali heard the woman praying and inquired about it. She revealed that she was praying for him. This revelation moved him deeply, and he offered her whatever she wished. She then expressed her desire for her husband’s return.
Surprisingly, she pointed to the watchman as her husband. In a miraculous turn of events, the watchman and the woman transformed into Bhagwan Vishnu and Devi Lakshmi. Mahabali was astonished to learn that the Lord and the Goddess had been by his side all along.
Bhagwan Vishnu explained that Mahabali’s unwavering devotion had drawn him there. He revealed that Mahabali would become the next Indra after the current one, ensuring Mahabali’s future prosperity. Mahabali, overwhelmed, fell at his feet.
Apologizing to Devi Lakshmi for unknowingly keeping her husband from her, Mahabali happily allowed them to return to their divine abode. Before leaving, Devi Lakshmi tied a Raksha Sutra, a protective thread, to Mahabali’s hand while reciting the aforementioned.
As Bhagwan Vishnu and Devi Lakshmi departed for Vaikunth, their heavenly home, they left behind a profound bond with Mahabali. This is why on the august occasion of Raksha Bandhan, one of the first traditions is to get the Raksha Sutra tied with the mantra that honors the bond between Mahabali and Devi Lakshmi!
This bond and the lessons of devotion and protection inspired the tradition of Raksha Bandhan. On this special day, sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being, while brothers promise to safeguard their sisters from harm. This story illustrates the timeless significance of relationships, devotion, and the profound interplay between divine and human actions that shape our lives and traditions.
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