Story Summary
Discover the legend of Vishnu as Vamana, the dwarf avatar who outsmarted King Bali with three steps to restore balance to the universe and the celestial realms.
King Bali, a powerful and virtuous Asura king, had conquered the three worlds, driving the gods from their celestial home. Though noble, his growing pride and power threatened the cosmic balance. To restore order, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Vamana, a diminutive Brahmin boy. Vamana approached King Bali during a grand sacrificial ritual and asked for a humble gift: only as much land as he could cover in three paces. Despite the warnings of his guru Shukracharya, the generous Bali granted the request. Suddenly, the tiny Vamana expanded into the cosmic giant Trivikrama. With his first step, he covered the entire earth. With his second, he encompassed the heavens. Realizing there was no place left for the third step, the humbled Bali offered his own head. Impressed by Bali's devotion and integrity, Vishnu placed his foot on Bali's head, sending him to rule the underworld (Sutala) and granting him immortality.
The Moral
True greatness lies in humility and keeping one's word, even at the cost of one's ego and possessions.
“If there is no more land, then place your third step upon my head.”
Fun Fact
Vamana is considered the fifth avatar of Vishnu and is the first incarnation in the Dashavatara to appear in a human-like form during the Treta Yuga.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Vishnu as Vamana?
The story teaches that pride and ego are the ultimate obstacles to spiritual growth. By surrendering his ego to the divine, King Bali achieved a higher state of existence despite losing his earthly kingdom.
Why did Vishnu take the Vamana avatar?
Vishnu took this form to restore the heavens to the Devas after King Bali had conquered all three worlds, ensuring that the cosmic balance between good and evil was maintained.
Who was King Bali?
Bali was a powerful Asura king and the grandson of Prahlada. Though he was a demon by birth, he was known for his immense generosity, righteousness, and devotion to truth.
What does the three steps of Vamana symbolize?
The three steps represent the transition from the physical world to the celestial realm, and finally to the spiritual surrender of the self (the ego).
Why did Shukracharya try to stop Bali from giving the gift?
Shukracharya, the guru of the Asuras, recognized that the dwarf was actually Lord Vishnu in disguise and knew that the gift would lead to Bali's downfall and the loss of his empire.
Is the Vamana avatar celebrated in any festival?
Yes, the story of Vamana and King Bali is central to the festival of Onam in Kerala, where it is believed that Bali returns once a year to visit his people.