In the cosmic drama that unfolded eons ago, a tale of sacrifice, humility, and divine intervention emerged—a story of the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Vamanadeva, and the noble king Bali Maharaj.
Bali Maharaj, the mighty grandson of Prahlad Maharaj, ruled as the powerful king of the demons. His conquests extended beyond the earthly realms, and he had subdued Indra, reigning over the heavenly planets. Bali’s ascendant power raised concerns for Aditi and Kasyapa Muni, the parents of the demigods, who sought divine protection for their celestial offspring through fervent prayers.
Answering Aditi and Kasyapa’s prayers, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Vishnu, consented to be born as their son. The Lord appeared before them in His original form, adorned with the divine symbols of conch, disc, lotus, and club. However, He chose to take on the earthly form of a Brahman dwarf named Vamana.
Vamana learned of Bali Maharaj’s grand sacrifice and decided to visit, his divine purpose concealed beneath the humble exterior. As Vamana entered the sacrificial arena, Bali greeted him with utmost reverence and humbly washed His feet. Inquiring about the purpose of His visit, Bali expressed his readiness to fulfill any request.
With a benevolent smile, Vamana replied, “You are a worthy grandson of Prahlad, known for your generosity and righteousness. I seek only three paces of land—a wise man never asks for more than he needs.”
Perceiving Vamana’s seemingly modest request, Bali Maharaj instantly agreed, “Take whatever you like.”
However, Bali’s guru, Sukracharya, recognized the divine nature of Vamana and tried to dissuade him, warning of the Lord’s true identity. Ignoring the counsel, Bali stood by his promise, recognizing the importance of honesty and integrity.
As Vamana prepared to take the first step, a miraculous transformation unfolded. The dwarf Brahman grew into an immense figure, covering the entire earth, sky, and all directions with a single step. The second step encompassed the heavenly realms and the vast expanse of the universe.
Witnessing Bali’s loss of everything, the demons were consumed by fury and attacked Vamana, but the Lord’s divine associates swiftly subdued them. As Vamana looked around for a place to take the third step, Bali Maharaj bowed and offered his head in a gesture of unparalleled humility.
Understanding Bali’s devotion and surrender, Vamana placed His foot on Bali’s head, expressing profound love and acceptance. At that moment, Vamana spoke, “My son, I take away everything from those I love. Riches and power often breed pride, distancing one from Me. When you witness a human unburdened by arrogance despite possessing wealth, youth, beauty, wisdom, and power, know that I am pleased by him.”
Thus, Bali Maharaj, having surrendered his kingdom and worldly possessions, gained the eternal grace of Lord Vishnu. In the sacrifice of Bali and the benevolence of Vamana, the cosmic saga underscored the eternal truth that humility and devotion triumph over worldly pride, securing the devotee’s place in the divine embrace of the Supreme Lord.