Background and Birth of Aurva
Aurva was born into the revered lineage of Bhrigu. He was the son of the sage Chyavana and Arushi, who was the daughter of Manu, the progenitor of humanity. The circumstances surrounding Aurva's birth were extraordinary. His name, Aurva, is derived from the Sanskrit word "uru," meaning thigh, because he was born from his mother's thigh.
The Persecution by Kartaviryarjuna's Descendants
The tale begins with a period of great strife and persecution. The Kshatriyas, warriors belonging to the race of Kartaviryarjuna, began to harass the descendants of Bhrigu, a revered line of sages. This persecution was severe and included even the womenfolk of the rishi families. The constant harassment created an atmosphere of fear and tension among the Bhrigu lineage.
Aurva's Birth Amidst Turmoil
During this tumultuous time, Arushi, who was pregnant, experienced such intense stress that the fetus in her womb slipped into her thigh. In this unusual manner, Aurva was born. This miraculous birth signified his extraordinary nature from the very beginning.
Aurva's Miraculous Power
As soon as he was born, Aurva displayed incredible powers. The infant sage stared at the marauding Kshatriyas, and his gaze was so powerful that it rendered them blind. Struck with fear and remorse, the Kshatriyas prayed fervently to the child-sage, seeking forgiveness and the restoration of their sight. Aurva, embodying both compassion and righteousness, restored their vision, demonstrating his mercy despite their transgressions.
Aurva's Quest for Vengeance
As Aurva grew, he could not forget the atrocities committed by the descendants of Kartaviryarjuna against his family and community. Fueled by a desire for vengeance, he decided to undertake a powerful sacrifice aimed at annihilating the followers of Kartaviryarjuna. This sacrifice was a potent ritual, capable of bringing great destruction.
Intervention and Creation of Vadavagni
However, the wisdom of the sages prevailed, and Aurva was dissuaded from completing the destructive sacrifice. The wise men counseled him on the virtues of forgiveness and the consequences of unchecked anger. Heeding their advice, Aurva decided to abandon his plan of vengeance. Nevertheless, the intensity of his anger could not be simply dissipated. In an extraordinary act, he discharged his wrath into the sea, where it manifested as a powerful, fiery horse. This submarine fire became known as 'Vadavagni,' an underwater fire that symbolizes the latent, destructive potential that Aurva had relinquished.
Legacy
Aurva's legacy continued through his children. He had a son named Richika and a daughter named Kandali. The tales of Aurva, his miraculous birth, his confrontation with the persecutors, and the creation of Vadavagni became an integral part of the rich tapestry of Vedic and Puranic lore, highlighting themes of justice, mercy, and the power of inner transformation.