Prahlada and Hiranyakashipu – Chapter 2: The Progeny of Kashyap and Diti

The Offspring of Kashyap and Diti

Hiranyakashipu's penance was disrupted by his desire for the boon of immortality. Now, a new story was about to be born on earth, a tale of another fierce battle between the gods and the demons. This story begins with the union of Rishi Kashyap and Diti, from whose womb two sons were born, who shook the heavens.

The Marriage of Rishi Kashyap and Diti

Rishi Kashyap, renowned for his penance, who was married to Diti, the daughter of Prajapati Daksha, had his ashram situated in a beautiful forest. Peace prevailed all around, with the chirping of birds and the sweet sound of rivers making the atmosphere sacred. Diti was a virtuous and devoted woman, always ready to serve her husband. She always had a desire for offspring in her heart, a son who would be strong and mighty, who could conquer the gods and enhance the glory of the demons. The love between Diti and Rishi Kashyap was deep, and their desire was natural.

One day, Diti expressed her wish to Rishi Kashyap, "O Lord, my mind is restless for the attainment of a son. I want our offspring to be even more powerful than the gods." Rishi Kashyap smiled and replied, "O Goddess, your wish will surely be fulfilled. I know there is love for the demons in your heart, and you want to give birth to a son who can protect their honor and respect. I will pray to Lord Vishnu that your wish is fulfilled."

The Birth of Hiranyaksha and the War with Vishnu

Time passed and Diti became pregnant. A terrible demon was born from her womb, who was named Hiranyaksha. Hiranyaksha was powerful from his mother's womb and shook the earth as soon as he was born. He was the strongest among the demons and terrorized the three worlds with his might. Intoxicated by his power, Hiranyaksha one day lifted the earth and submerged it in the ocean. There was chaos among the gods and sages as Hiranyaksha's tyranny was increasing.

To save the earth, Lord Vishnu took the Varaha avatar. In the form of Varaha, Lord Vishnu lifted the earth on his tusks and brought it out of the ocean. Then he had a fierce battle with Hiranyaksha. Hiranyaksha could not stand against Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra and was eventually killed. By the grace of Lord Vishnu, the earth was re-established in its place and the gods breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing this, Diti was drowned in sorrow and became angry with Lord Vishnu, because he had killed her son.

Hiranyakashipu's Resolve to Take Revenge

Hearing the news of his brother Hiranyaksha's death, Hiranyakashipu was consumed with anger. His heart began to burn in the fire of revenge. He vowed at that very moment to avenge his brother's death from Lord Vishnu. He resolved that he would defeat Lord Vishnu and establish his dominance over the gods. Hiranyakashipu knew that to do so, he would have to become even more powerful, and that is why he decides to perform rigorous penance again, the fruit of whose penance will write the birth story of Prahlad.