Liberation of Putana

Putana Moksha was a profound event in the early life of Lord Krishna, In the kingdom of Kamsa, a fierce demoness named Putana roamed, her sole purpose being the destruction of innocent infants. Commanded by Kamsa, she traversed towns and villages, seeking to harm the children of those who did not remember the compassionate Lord. Such places, devoid of devotion, became her hunting grounds.

Putana possessed the ability to traverse the skies and change her form at will. Near Gokul, she transformed into a beautiful young woman. Adorned with jasmine flowers in her braids, elegant garments, and captivating ornaments, she mesmerized the inhabitants of Vrindavan. The Gopis, seeing her approach with a lotus in hand, speculated that Goddess Lakshmi herself had come to behold her beloved.

Unaware of her true nature, they allowed her into Nand Baba's home, where the divine child Krishna lay peacefully. Being the soul of all living and non-living beings, Krishna immediately sensed the malevolent intent of Putana. In His omniscience, He closed His eyes, preparing to enact His divine will.

Despite His limitless power, Krishna chose to conceal His brilliance at that moment, much like fire hidden within ashes. Putana, mistaking His apparent vulnerability, lifted Him into her arms. Her heart, sharp like a concealed sword, was set on ending His life. She offered Him her poisoned breast, intending to seal His fate.

However, as the Supreme Destroyer of Evil, Krishna grasped her breast firmly and began to draw not just milk, but her very life force. Overwhelmed by unbearable pain, Putana's true form as a terrifying demoness was unveiled. She thrashed about, her screams echoing across the earth and heavens, causing beings far and wide to tremble.

In her demise, Putana's massive body collapsed, stretching across the landscape and astonishing all who witnessed it. Yet, in this act of vanquishing evil, Krishna bestowed upon her the highest liberation. Despite her heinous intentions, she attained a spiritual destination reserved for the most virtuous, illustrating His boundless compassion and the transformative power of His grace.

The villagers, including Yashoda and Rohini, were both amazed and grateful. They performed protective rituals, invoking the numerous sacred names of the Lord—Keshava, Vishnu, Madhusudana—to safeguard their beloved child. These names, revered across the cosmos, reflect the multifaceted nature of Krishna as the Supreme Deity, adored by Brahma, Shiva, and all celestial beings.

Throughout this miraculous event, Krishna remained the divine child, engaging in His leelas—playful acts that are both endearing and profound. He lay fearlessly upon Putana's chest, undisturbed by the chaos around Him. His innocence and charm continued to captivate the hearts of His devotees, deepening their unwavering love and devotion.

Krishna's interaction with Putana symbolizes the ultimate reality of liberation. By accepting even a malicious offering, He purifies the giver, demonstrating that His grace extends to all souls. This act signifies the potential for redemption and the transcendence of material bondage through divine connection.

The Gopis and the villagers, in their deep affection, saw Krishna not just as a child but as the embodiment of the divine. Their relationship with Him was one of profound love and devotion. By drinking the milk of the cows and the Gopis, Krishna sanctified them, freeing them from the cycle of birth and death. This reciprocal relationship highlights the interconnectedness between the Lord and His devotees.

The entire community marveled at the extraordinary events. The cowherds, returning from Mathura, were astonished by the sight of Putana's colossal form and the miraculous survival of Krishna. They exclaimed, 'This is indeed a marvelous event,' recognizing the divine intervention at play. Such miracles reinforced their faith and inspired awe, illustrating Krishna's role as a miracle worker who transcends natural laws.

Through the defeat of Putana, Krishna restored cosmic balance, eliminating a great evil and protecting the innocent. The reactions of the earth, mountains, and heavens to her demise underscored His influence over all realms of existence. His actions ensured the continuation of righteousness and the protection of dharma.

Knowledge Bank

What is the significance of the Shakti Pithas?

Shakti Pithas are a chain of places on the Indian subcontinent famous for their spiritual significance in Hinduism. Sati Devi went to attend a yaga performed by her father, Daksha. There, her husband Lord Shiva was insulted. She self-immolated by jumping into the fire. Shiva roamed around with her corpse in a mood to destroy the world. Lord Vishnu cut her corpse using his SudarshanaChakra. Parts of her body and ornaments fell in 51 holy places. They are the Shakti Pithas where devotees throng for blessings and MantraSiddhi.

How many chapters are there in Yoga Vasishta?

1. Vairagya prakarana. 2. Mumukshu vyavahara prakarana. 3. Utpatti prakarana. 4. Sthiti prakarana 5. Upashama prakarana. 6. Nirvana prakarana.