The Legend of Laxmi-Narayan and King Bali: When God Became a Doorkeeper

New Delhi: In Indian Puranas, the glory of devotion and charity is considered paramount. This story of King Bali's legendary generosity and Lord Narayan's loyalty toward his devotee teaches us that wherever God resides, happiness, prosperity, and Goddess Laxmi naturally follow.

1. When Ravana Reached the Netherworld (Patala Loka)

According to the legend, the arrogant Ravana once reached Patala Loka while wandering and challenged King Bali to a duel. Lord Vamana (Narayan) himself was guarding King Bali's gate as a doorkeeper. When Ravana expressed his desire for war, Lord Vamana told him to fight the servant first, and then the master. The Lord kicked Ravana's chest so hard that he fell straight to the seashore.

Spiritual Message: Ravana is a symbol of 'Kaam' (lust/desire). If God begins to guard the gates of your senses, desire and lust will never be able to enter.

2. Narayan’s Absence and Goddess Laxmi’s Restlessness

In the Vamana incarnation, the Lord took three steps of land as a donation from Bali and returned the kingdom of heaven to Indra. Pleased by Bali’s total surrender and sacrifice, the Lord became indebted to him and granted him the boon of residing in Patala Loka, becoming his doorkeeper himself.

Meanwhile, in Vaikuntha, despite having everything, Mother Laxmi was restless due to Narayan's absence. When Naradji informed her that the Lord was guarding King Bali's gate in Sutala Patala, Mother Laxmi set out for the netherworld to bring Him back.

3. The Form of a Brahmin Woman and the Vow of Raksha Bandhan

Laxmiji assumed the form of a Brahmin woman and reached Patala Loka. She told King Bali that she had no brother and wished to make him her 'Dharma-Bhai' (spiritual brother). King Bali was extremely pleased and accepted Laxmiji as his sister.

On the full moon day of the month of Shravana, Mother Laxmi tied a Rakhi on King Bali's wrist. Pleased, Bali said, "Sister, ask today for whatever you wish, do not hesitate."

4. The Liberation of Narayan and the Vision of the Four-Armed Form

Laxmiji humbly replied, "I have everything in my house, except the one without whom I am incomplete. Give me this doorkeeper; set Him free from this bond." When Bali asked if this doorkeeper was her relative, Mother Laxmi revealed the truth, stating that He is Narayan Himself.

At that very moment, the Lord appeared in His majestic four-armed (Chaturbhuj) form. Overjoyed, King Bali worshipped Laxmi-Narayan and bid the Lord a joyful farewell.

Conclusion: Follow Narayan, Not Just Laxmi

The essence of this story is that wherever Narayan is, Laxmiji follows. If you enthrone 'Thakurji' (God) in your heart, happiness and prosperity will follow you uninvited. Therefore, in this world, do not worship just Laxmi (wealth), but adore Narayan (truth and God).