Asuras Disguised as Kings

The 10th skandha of Srimad Bhagavata starts with the background of Krishnavatara.

भूमिर्दृप्तनृपव्याजदैत्यानीकशतायुतैः ।

आक्रान्ता भूरिभारेण ब्रह्माणं शरणं ययौ ॥ 10.1.17॥

Mother Earth, burdened by the armies of countless Asuras disguised as arrogant kings, sought refuge in Brahma.

At one time, the Earth was controlled by the Asuras. The land of the gods was limited to the space a person sees when sitting and looking up. The rest was under the control of the Asuras. These Asuras took birth on Earth as arrogant kings and they wanted to take the Earth to Rasatala.

What was Earth’s suffering?

Earth suffered from the burden of Asuras disguised as kings. Their evil deeds and pride weighed her down, forcing her to seek Brahma's help.

Why did the Earth go to Brahma for help?
The Earth went to Brahma because she believed that he had helped her during the Varaha Avatara and would find a solution to her suffering again.

Where is the Lord visible?
The Lord is hidden everywhere but visibly resides in Vaikuntha.

Why did the Earth take the form of a cow?
The Earth took the form of a cow because it was a small, humble shape that would not attract the Asuras' attention.

What would have happened if the Earth went in her vast form?
If the Earth had gone in her vast form, the Asuras would have obstructed her.

What is considered the most important task according to Bhagavata?
The most important task is removing one’s or others’ suffering.

What proves that the kings are  Asuras?
The kings' arrogance and behavior against scriptures prove that they are Asuras.

Why is the cow's form considered significant in this context?
The cow's form symbolizes humility, which evokes compassion and helps in getting help.

What is universally attributed to Asuras?
Arrogance and defiance of scriptures are universally attributed to Asuras.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi