Vrishabh Avatar: The Ox Incarnation of Shiva to Save the Universe

During his time in Patala Loka, Lord Vishnu had several sons. Vishnu's sons possessed great courage and strength. However, they did not inherit their father's wisdom and compassion. Instead, they became evil and cruel beings who caused chaos.

Sons of Vishnu  (Source: Personal Collection)

Because the nature of Lord Vishnu's sons was evil and cruel, over time, the chaos they caused became increasingly severe. Their actions also spread disorder throughout the Tri Loka. The gods and wise men were also affected by their deeds. As a result, the gods and wise men deliberated and decided to hold a meeting to seek a solution to the problem. They decided to seek the help of Lord Shiva, who is known for his ability to restore balance to the universe.

After deliberating, the gods approached Lord Shiva to ask for his help in punishing Vishnu's sons. Lord Shiva realized how chaotic the three realms (Tri Loka) had become due to the irresponsible actions of Vishnu's sons. Finally, Lord Shiva decided to descend to Patala Loka in the form of Vrishabha, a giant bull.

Shiva transforming into Vrishaba (Source: Personal Collection)

In the form of Vrishabh, Lord Shiva entered Patala Loka. His appearance and power in the majestic Vrishabh form signified that Lord Shiva had come to deliver justice. Upon arriving, Vrishabh immediately confronted Vishnu's infamous and cruel sons.

Although Vishnu’s sons possessed great strength and bravery, they underestimated Lord Shiva in the form of Vrishabha. They thought that Vrishabha was merely a bull. However, Shiva, in the form of Vrishabha, was not an opponent to be taken lightly. With a roar that shook all of Patala Loka, Vrishabha began his assault. With his divine powers, it wasn’t difficult for Lord Shiva to battle Vishnu’s sons. Vrishabha's attacks were swift and precise. His glowing horns pierced through the bodies of Vishnu’s sons one by one. The atmosphere became tense and filled with confusion as Shiva’s powers overwhelmed and defeated Vishnu’s sons. One by one, they were slain by Lord Shiva.

Seeing his sons being defeated one by one, Lord Vishnu could not remain silent. He himself emerged from his hiding place, angered and determined to face Vrishabha. Vishnu prepared his various weapons, including his mace, bow, and Sudarshan Chakra.

Battle between Vishnu and Vrishaba (Source: Personal Collection)

Vishnu began attacking Vrishabha with all the weapons at his disposal, from the mace to arrows and the Chakra. The mace, capable of shattering mountains, the bow that launched swift and powerful arrows, and the Sudarshan Chakra that flew with pinpoint accuracy. However, none of Vishnu’s attacks could harm Vrishabha.

After a long battle, Vishnu finally began to realize that his opponent was no ordinary being but Lord Shiva himself. This realization humbled Vishnu. He ceased his attacks and knelt before Vrishabha, showing his remorse and offering great respect to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, with compassion, explained that his intention was not to destroy Vishnu but to restore balance. Shiva asked Vishnu to return to Vishnuloka and fulfill his responsibilities. Vishnu, realizing his mistake, agreed to Shiva’s request.

As a symbol, Shiva asked Vishnu to leave his Sudarshan Chakra in Patala Loka. This Chakra would serve as a reminder of the balance of the universe and the consequences of neglect. Vishnu agreed, leaving the Chakra in Patala Loka as a sign of the lesson learned.

Shiva giving the new Sudarshan Chakra to Vishnu (Source: Personal Collection)

In return, Shiva gave Vishnu a new Sudarshan Chakra, more radiant and powerful than before. This new Chakra symbolized a fresh beginning and Vishnu’s renewed commitment to his responsibilities. With the new Chakra in hand, Lord Vishnu returned to his abode in Vishnuloka, with a renewed purpose and commitment to maintaining the balance of the universe. Balance was restored, and the gods continued their roles with a revived sense of duty.