Story Summary
In the tale of Krishna and Aghasura, the young deity saves his friends from a giant serpent demon's mouth, demonstrating divine protection and ultimate mercy.
One day, while the young Krishna was playing in the forests of Vrindavan with his cowherd friends, a terrifying demon named Aghasura arrived. Seeking revenge for his siblings Putana and Bakasura, Aghasura transformed himself into a colossal python, stretching eight miles long. He opened his massive jaws wide, his lower lip touching the earth and his upper lip touching the clouds, making his mouth look like a vast mountain cave. Enticed by curiosity and divine play, the cowherd boys and their calves entered the 'cave,' thinking it was a natural wonder. Krishna, realizing the trap, entered the serpent's mouth to protect them. Once inside, Krishna expanded his body to an enormous size, suffocating the demon. Aghasura’s eyes popped out, and his life force escaped through the top of his head. Krishna then restored his friends to life with a glance and emerged from the beast. A brilliant light emerged from the demon's body and merged into Krishna, granting the demon liberation despite his evil intent.
The Moral
Divine protection is always available to the innocent, and even the most malevolent soul can find liberation through the touch of the divine.
“Even the darkness of a demon's throat cannot extinguish the light of the Supreme Soul.”
Fun Fact
Aghasura is unique among demons because, despite his immense hatred for Krishna, he was granted the same liberation as the most pious sages because Krishna entered his body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Krishna and Aghasura?
The story teaches that God protects those who are innocent and devoted. It also highlights the concept of 'Sayujya Mukti,' where even an enemy can attain liberation by being touched or killed by the divine.
Who was Aghasura in Hindu mythology?
Aghasura was a powerful asura (demon) and the younger brother of Putana and Bakasura. He was sent by King Kamsa to kill Krishna in the forests of Vrindavan.
How did Krishna defeat Aghasura?
Krishna entered the demon's mouth and expanded his body size until the serpent could no longer breathe. This caused the demon's head to burst, killing him instantly and freeing those trapped inside.
Why did the cowherd boys enter the serpent's mouth?
The boys were deceived by Aghasura's massive size and thought his open mouth was a beautiful mountain cave or a natural landmark worth exploring during their play.
What happened to the soul of Aghasura after death?
Upon his death, a bright light emerged from Aghasura's body and waited in the sky until Krishna emerged. It then merged into Krishna's body, signifying that the demon had achieved liberation (Moksha).
How long was the demon Aghasura?
According to the Puranas, Aghasura assumed the form of a python that was eight miles long, with a mouth so large it resembled a valley between two mountains.