Introduction to Indra and Some Stories Related to Him Found in the Vedas.
Fourteen Indras are said
to have ruled over heaven. "Indra" is also a title, similar to the
way 14 Manus exist in 14 Manvantaras. The names of the Indras in each
Manvantara are as follows: Yajna, Vipashchit, Shibi, Vidhu, Manojava,
Purandara, Bali, Adbhut, Shanti, Vish, Ritudhama, Devaspati, and Shuchi. Among
these, Shachipati Indra Purandara is preceded by five Indras.
Indra was married to
Shachi, the daughter of the Asura king Puloma. After becoming Indra’s wife, she
was referred to as Indrani. The Vedas also mention the names of their
children, including Vasukta and Vrisha Rishi, who composed Vedic hymns. There
is also mention of their son Jayanta and daughter Devasena.
Indra's Birth and Early Life
The 18th Sukta of the 4th
Mandala in the Rigveda narrates the birth and life of Indra. His mother was
Aditi, and it is said that Indra remained in her womb for an extended period,
causing her great suffering. However, this prolonged gestation contributed to
his immense strength and valor. At his birth, a demoness named Kushava
attempted to devour him, but Indra killed her in the delivery room.
Because of his strength,
courage, and achievements, the title of "Indra" became a position of
authority. Anyone who attained dominion over heaven was given the title of
Indra. Over different eras, various beings ascended to this position. For instance,
the Asura king Bali and Ravana's son Meghnad also became Indras.
Indra’s Role and Character
Indra is known for his
power and warrior-like nature. He would often disrupt the penance of sages with
the help of celestial nymphs (Apsaras) or steal horses meant for Ashvamedha
Yajnas to prevent others from becoming more powerful than him. Indra, the god
of war, collaborated with Varuna, the god of peace, to uphold cosmic balance.
In the Vedic era,
military science was highly advanced. Warriors rode horses and primarily used
bows and arrows. Many Vedic hymns recount battles and deeds attributed to
Indra, which were likely accomplished by different individuals bearing the
title over time. Nonetheless, Indra played a crucial leadership role in
protecting Aryan civilization, which is why he is remembered alongside Lord
Rama during the festival of Vijayadashami.
Hymns in Praise of Indra
The Vedas contain the
highest number of hymns dedicated to Indra, followed by other deities like
Agni, Soma, Surya, Chandra, the Ashvins, Vayu, Varuna, and Usha. Indra is often
portrayed as a mighty warrior with a penchant for drinking Soma. Unlike other
deities who remain modest in the Vedas, Indra is depicted as one who speaks of
his deeds and power.
Some hymns associate
Indra with clouds and storms, depicting him as the god of rain. This
association stems from his residence in mountainous regions, where clouds form.
He is also believed to wield a weapon that could summon rain and lightning.
Indra’s Feats and River Creation
Indra is credited with
creating rivers and altering their courses, as evidenced in the following
Rigvedic verse:
Indra's interventions
made the Sindhu River flow northward from its source at Mansarovar. This act
likely involved carving through rugged terrain to create a freer flow of the
river, easing the Aryans' passage.
Mythological and Philosophical Stories
The Chandogya Upanishad
recounts a story where both Indra and Virochana, king of the Asuras, sought
self-knowledge from Prajapati. For 32 years, they followed celibacy and studied
under Prajapati. When asked about the nature of the self, Prajapati asked them
to look at their reflections in a water-filled bowl and declared, "That is
the self."
Virochana took this
literally and returned to the Asuras, teaching that the body is supreme. Indra,
however, questioned this interpretation, recognizing that the self cannot be
subject to decay or destruction. He returned to Prajapati for further instruction,
undergoing rigorous training for a total of 101 years before understanding the
true nature of the self as eternal and pure, beyond the physical body.
Indra’s Battle with Vritra
In the Satya Yuga, the
demon Vritra, assisted by the Rakshasa Kalkeya, terrorized the world. To defeat
him, the gods sought advice from Brahma, who suggested approaching the sage
Dadhichi for help. Dadhichi, known for his selflessness, agreed to sacrifice
his body so that his bones could be used to craft the thunderbolt (Vajra)
weapon. Armed with the Vajra, Indra successfully vanquished Vritra.
This story symbolizes the
triumph of divine power and self-sacrifice over demonic forces.
Indra in His Own Words
In the 27th Sukta of the
10th Mandala of the Rigveda, Indra proclaims:
"Everyone praises my
valor, even the sages. No one can stop me in battle; not even the mountains can
obstruct my path. When I roar, even the deaf tremble. Those who dare drink the
Soma offered to me are struck down by my thunderbolt."
Indra’s dominance as the ruler of heaven and protector of cosmic order remains a central theme in Vedic literature.
After Brahma’s instructions, all the gods went to sage Dadhichi on the other bank of the Saraswati River. They prayed to him, and Dadhichi, moved by their plea, willingly sacrificed his body. Following Brahma’s directive, the gods took Dadhichi’s bones to Vishwakarma, who crafted a powerful weapon, the Vajra, from them. The Vajra was then handed over to Indra with the charge of vanquishing Vritrasura. A fierce battle ensued, and when Indra unleashed the Vajra with all his might, Vritrasura fell and soon succumbed to its power.
The Legend of Vritrasura
Vritrasura was a mighty asura who often attacked Aryan settlements, causing widespread havoc. Indra ultimately took charge, leading to a fierce and decisive battle where Vritrasura was slain. Indra’s bravery in this battle earned him widespread acclaim and celebration.
Some scholars suggest that Vritra, as mentioned in the texts, may have been a historical figure—perhaps a ruler of Assyria. There are references to Vritra in the Persian text Avesta. It is said that he worshiped a goddess named Advishur and waged war against the Aryans.
Cultural and Mythological Impact
The battle between Indra and Vritrasura deeply influenced many cultures. Parallels can be drawn between this tale and Homer’s Iliad or the Greek myths involving Zeus and Apollo. This suggests the profound impact of the Indra-Vritra war on the contemporary world.
Indra and Bali
After the gods became immortal by consuming the nectar of immortality obtained during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), they resumed their battle with the asuras. Indra used his Vajra to kill Bali, but Shukracharya’s powerful mantras revived him. Although Bali regained life, the gods reclaimed a significant portion of their lost territory.
Bali, however, performed severe penance and undertook several Ashwamedha yajnas to expand his dominion. His power and fame grew immensely, and he eventually decided to challenge Indra for his kingdom.
During his 99th yajna, Lord Vishnu appeared in his Vamana avatar. Bali, known for his generosity, readily agreed to Vamana’s request for land equivalent to three paces. Despite Shukracharya’s warnings, Bali kept his promise. Vamana then expanded his form, measuring the entire earth with one step, the heavens with another, and asked Bali where he should place the third step. Smiling, Bali offered his head. Pleased by his devotion, Vishnu granted him sovereignty over the netherworld (Patal Lok) until the end of the Kali Yuga.
Indra’s Battle with Shambar
Another notable battle was between Indra and Shambar, a mighty asura skilled in illusionary warfare. Shambar ruled the Dandaka forest in the south and had constructed 99 prosperous and fortified cities. These cities, known as puras, became the target of Indra’s wrath. With his Vajra, Indra destroyed 98 of these cities, leaving one as his residence, earning him the title Purandara (destroyer of cities).
It is said that King Dasharatha assisted Indra in this war, with Queen Kaikeyi also playing a critical role. During the battle, Kaikeyi saved Dasharatha’s life. In gratitude, Dasharatha offered her a boon, which she later used to send Lord Rama into exile for 14 years.
The Divine Significance of Indra
Indra was not merely a warlord but a symbol of supreme leadership among the Aryans. His battles, such as those against Vritrasura and Shambar, were critical in protecting the Aryan way of life. His victories were celebrated as acts of valor, securing the gods’ reign and preserving cosmic order.
Even today, Indra is remembered for his indomitable strength and strategic brilliance, as well as his role in shaping the mythology and spiritual beliefs of ancient India.
The Battle of the Ten Kings (Dasha-Rajya Yuddha)
The Rigveda (Mandala 7, Sukta 18) mentions a legendary war known as the Battle of the Ten Kings (Dasha-Rajya Yuddha). On one side was King Sudas, a Suryavanshi ruler, supported by his advisor and priest, Sage Vasishtha. On the opposing side were ten kings, led by King Samvaran of the Purus, who was advised by Sage Vishwamitra.
Indra, at Vasishtha’s behest, intervened in the war to assist Sudas. In the course of the battle, Sudas' enemies broke the dam on the Parushni (modern Ravi) River, causing a massive flood that threatened Sudas’ forces. However, Indra’s support turned the tide, and Sudas emerged victorious. Over 66,000 warriors from the opposing side were killed, and Indra’s dominance was established.
According to the Rigveda (Mandala 3), Indra dried up the waters of the Vipasha (Beas) and Shatadru (Sutlej) rivers upon Vishwamitra’s request, allowing the Bharata army to cross them with ease.
Krishna and Indra: Govardhan and the End of Indrotsav
In the era of Lord Krishna, the northern regions of India celebrated a grand festival known as Indrotsav, dedicated to Indra. However, Krishna encouraged the people of Braj to stop worshiping Indra and instead honor Govardhan Hill through Govardhan Puja.
When Indra learned of this, his pride was hurt, and he unleashed torrential rains using his divine clouds to submerge Braj. Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger, offering refuge to the people beneath it. Realizing his mistake, Indra’s arrogance was shattered. Following this incident, Krishna’s influence caused the worship of celestial gods like Indra to decline.
Indra’s Role in the Mahabharata Era
Indra played a pivotal role during the Mahabharata, especially in ensuring the survival of his son Arjuna. To protect Arjuna, Indra approached Karna disguised as a Brahmin and cunningly asked for Karna’s divine armor (Kavach) and earrings (Kundal), knowing they made him invincible. Despite realizing the Brahmin’s true identity, Karna, renowned for his generosity, cut the armor and earrings from his body and gave them to Indra.
As penance for his deceit, Indra later gifted Karna the powerful weapon Vasavi Shakti, which could kill a formidable opponent but could only be used once.
Other Wars of Indra
Indra’s exploits are numerous, showcasing his unparalleled strength and leadership:
- Destruction of the Seven Forts of Sharat: Indra destroyed the seven fortified cities of the asura Sharat.
- Defeat of Namuchi: Namuchi, who was immune to conventional weapons, was slain by Indra using the froth of water and air.
- Victory over Sushruva and His Allies: Indra defeated Sushruva, who was accompanied by 20 other kings.
- Battles with Shushna and Kuyava: Indra vanquished these rulers, ensuring the protection of Kuts.
- Protection of Dabhiti: Indra safeguarded Dabhiti by defeating enemies like Dasyu, Chamuri, and Dhuni.
- War with Lanka’s Kings: The demon king Malyavan, accompanied by his brother Sumali, attacked Indra but was defeated. Sumali fled to the netherworld, solidifying Indra’s supremacy.
Indra and Ahalya
The Ramayana narrates the story of Ahalya, the virtuous and beautiful wife of Sage Gautama. Mesmerized by her beauty, Indra deceitfully approached her in Gautama’s guise while the sage was away. Discovering the deceit, Gautama cursed both Indra and Ahalya. Indra was cursed to bear marks resembling a thousand eyes, while Ahalya was turned into a stone.
Ahalya’s curse was eventually lifted by Lord Rama during his journey through the forest, signifying her redemption.
Legacy of Indra
Indra remains one of the most dynamic figures in Indian mythology. His exploits range from protecting the Aryan tribes and their way of life to his complex relationships with other deities and mortals. While his pride often led to his downfall, his acts of valor and leadership cemented his place as the King of the Gods in Vedic tradition.
:Indra, feeling awkward, said, "O great philanthropist Karna, I am not here as a beggar anymore. I wish to give you something. Please ask for anything you desire, except for your armor and earrings."
Karna replied, "O King of the Gods, I have never asked for anything in my life, nor do I need anything. Karna only knows how to give, not take."
Indra then humbly said, "King Karna, you must ask for something; otherwise, neither my chariot nor I can leave this place. If you ask for something, it will be a great favor to me. Whatever you request, I am ready to grant it."
Karna said, "O King of the Devas, no matter how much you insist, I know only how to give. I have never taken anything in my life."
Being left with no choice, Indra said, "I will leave this thunderbolt-like weapon in exchange. You may use it against anyone, even against death itself, but it can only be used once."
Before Karna could respond, Indra left the weapon there and fled. Even when Karna called out to him, he did not stop. Karna was forced to keep the thunderbolt weapon with him. When Duryodhana learned that Karna had given away his armor and earrings, he was stunned and felt as if his kingdom of Hastinapur was slipping away. However, when he heard that Karna received the thunderbolt weapon in return, he was relieved once again.
Now, this cannot entirely be considered Karna's fault. It was his obligation. However, his mistake lay in not asking for something from Indra. Failing to ask was, indeed, a mistake. If he had just asked for the thunderbolt to be used three times, it would have been better.
Once, an intoxicated Indra, after drinking soma (celestial nectar), was indulging in solitary pleasures with Rambha, the celestial nymph. At that moment, Sage Durvasa arrived with his disciples. Indra welcomed him with hospitality.
Durvasa blessed Indra and gifted him a Parijata flower, which was obtained from Lord Vishnu. Arrogant with his wealth, Indra placed the flower on his elephant's forehead. The flower's divine power made the elephant majestic, and it wandered off into the forest. Indra failed to control it.
When Durvasa saw that Indra had disrespected the flower, he became enraged and cursed Indra to lose his splendor. Due to the curse, the demons attacked heaven, and Indra lost his power and wealth.
Frightened, Indra first sought refuge with Brihaspati, then Brahma, and finally all the gods approached Lord Vishnu. Vishnu suggested that they churn the ocean to obtain nectar and instructed them to collaborate with King Bali. During the churning, Goddess Lakshmi emerged as the daughter of the ocean. Vishnu narrated the different forms of Lakshmi's abandonment and ordered the gods to churn the ocean.
Many treasures emerged from the churning, including Lakshmi herself.
When the nectar finally appeared, a battle broke out between the gods and demons over its possession. Lord Vishnu, in the form of Mohini, distributed the nectar to the gods, making them immortal, including Indra.
There was a king named Sahasrar whose wife, Manas Sundari, longed to witness Indra's glory. To fulfill her wish, the king arranged for her to see Indra's celestial realm. Consequently, her child, born from that longing, was named Indra.
Indra, the king of the gods, was also called Meshavrishan. During the war between Rama and Ravana, the Kinnaras (celestial beings) remarked that the battle was unequal because Ravana had a chariot, while Rama was on foot. Hearing this, Indra sent his chariot for Rama, equipped with Indra's armor, a mighty bow, arrows, and a divine weapon.
With folded hands, Matali, the charioteer, requested Rama to accept these gifts. After the battle, Rama instructed Matali to return Indra's chariot and equipment.
Once, Sage Markandeya's intense penance worried Indra. To distract him, Indra sent Urvashi, the celestial nymph. Indra’s reign lasts for 72 Chaturyugas (epochs), and he is known to protect his throne by any means necessary.
For this reason, Indra sent Urvashi to Sage Markandeya. Using her powers, Urvashi created a pleasant atmosphere and performed enchanting dances and songs. In the end, she disrobed herself.
The sage asked, "O goddess, why have you come here?"
Urvashi admitted defeat and replied, "O sage, you have won. I have failed. You are truly enlightened. But if I return to heaven defeated, I will be mocked. I will have to face Indra's wrath." She revealed that she was Indra's chief consort.
The sage asked, "What will you do when Indra dies?" Urvashi replied, "I will remain as the queen of heaven for 14 Indras. Many Indras will come and go, but I shall remain."
Their conversation was interrupted when Indra himself appeared, acknowledging his defeat. He invited the sage to sit on his throne. However, the sage rejected the offer, saying, "What use is your throne to me? I seek enlightenment, where millions of Indras are mere dust."
Indra, relieved, said, "At least it’s clear now that you are not aiming for my position. I can rest assured."
During the Mahabharata era, there were two great sages, Bharadwaj and Raibhya, who lived in nearby hermitages. They were close friends. Raibhya had two sons, Paravasu and Arvavasu, who were renowned Vedic scholars.
Bharadwaj's son, Yavakrita, was envious of the respect Raibhya and his sons received due to their knowledge. To overcome this, Yavakrita began penance to please Indra.
Impressed by his penance, Indra appeared and asked, "Yavakrita, what is your desire?"
Yavakrita replied, "Grant me the complete knowledge of the Vedas without study. I don’t want to memorize every verse. Please bless me with this gift."
Indra laughed and said, "O sage's son, you are on the wrong path. The right way is to study under a qualified teacher and learn through effort." With this advice, Indra departed.
However, Yavakrita remained stubborn and resumed his penance. Eventually, his austerities began to disturb the gods, and Indra appeared again.
This time, Indra said, "O child, your father is a Vedic scholar. Learn from him and become a great sage. Do not torture your body in vain." With this, Indra left again.
Yavakrita still did not give up. One day, while on his way to bathe in the Ganga, he saw an old man throwing sand into the river. He asked, "What are you doing, old man?"
The man replied, "I am building a bridge across the Ganga for people to cross easily."
Yavakrita laughed and said, "That is impossible. You are wasting your effort."
The old man replied, "Just as you are trying to gain Vedic knowledge without study, I am building this bridge with sand."
Realizing it was Indra in disguise, Yavakrita understood his mistake, sought forgiveness, and returned to study the Vedas.
