In the ancient Indian epic tradition, the lineage of Raghuvamsa is renowned for its valor and righteousness. Among its illustrious members was King Aja, the father of the great King Dasharatha, who was, in turn, the father of Lord Rama. King Aja's tales of bravery and his extraordinary skills are well-celebrated, particularly the story of his remarkable bow and arrow, which had the magical ability to summon Gandharvas, celestial musicians and warriors.
The most famous episode demonstrating this magical ability
occurred during Aja's marriage to Princess Indumati. The occasion was a grand
swayamvar, a traditional ceremony where a princess chooses her husband from
among a gathering of suitors. Indumati, renowned for her beauty and grace, was
sought by many kings and princes who attended the swayamvar with high hopes.
As the ceremony progressed, Indumati made her choice,
placing the ceremonial garland around Aja's neck, thus declaring him her chosen
one. This decision, however, was met with dismay and anger by the other suitors
as Aja was the youngest among but the most handsome. Unable to accept their
defeat, they conspired to kill Aja and abduct Indumati.
As the jealous kings and princes surrounded the newlywed
couple, intent on carrying out their nefarious plan, Aja stood resolute, his
hand steady on his bow. In a decisive moment, Aja drew his unique arrow and
released it into the air. To the astonishment of all present, a Gandharva
warrior emerged from the arrow, resplendent and powerful.
This celestial being did not act alone. From every arrow the
Gandharva shot, another Gandharva emerged. The air was soon filled with these
celestial warriors, their numbers swelling with every moment. What had begun as
a solitary act of defense swiftly transformed into a formidable army of
Gandharvas, surrounding Aja and Indumati, protecting them from their
aggressors.
The sight of this magical army instilled fear and awe in the
hearts of the opposing kings and princes. Realizing they were no match for the
celestial warriors, they fled the scene, abandoning their plans. The power of
Aja’s bow and arrow, combined with the presence of the Gandharvas, ensured the
safety of the royal couple and demonstrated Aja's unparalleled prowess and
divine favor.
This extraordinary display of might and magic during the
swayamvar not only secured Indumati's hand in marriage for Aja but also
cemented his reputation as a heroic and favored king in the annals of the
Raghuvamsha dynasty. The tale of Aja and his magical bow and arrow continues to
be a testament to the extraordinary capabilities and divine blessings that
often adorned the heroes of ancient Hindu epics.
This story is found in the Krittibasi Ramayana – Bengali version
of Ramayana.