The story of Maya Mohana, a form of Bhagavan Vishnu, is narrated in the Vishnu Purana. This tale highlights the use of divine illusion to uphold cosmic order and defeat the Daityas (demons) who were adversaries of the Devas (gods).
Context and Background
In ancient times, a group of Daityas led by a powerful demon
named Hrada had gained immense strength and power through their strict
adherence to the Vedic religion and practices. Their devotion and mastery over
the Vedas endowed them with extraordinary abilities, making them formidable
opponents who could not be easily defeated. As a result, the Devas were
overpowered and driven out of heaven by these invincible Daityas.
The Devas Seek Vishnu's Help
In their desperation, the Devas approached Bhagavan Vishnu,
the preserver of the universe, and sought his assistance to reclaim their abode
and restore balance. Understanding the situation, Vishnu devised a plan to
strip the Daityas of their Vedic power, thereby weakening them and making them
vulnerable to the Devas' counterattack.
Creation of Maya Mohana
To execute his plan, Vishnu created an illusionary figure
from his own body, known as Maya Mohana. This form was crafted to deceive and
lead the Daityas astray from their righteous path. Maya Mohana was an
embodiment of delusion and trickery, designed specifically to misguide the
Daityas.
The Deception of the Daityas
Maya Mohana appeared before the Daityas while they were
engaged in deep meditation on the banks of the sacred Narmada River. He
presented himself as a mendicant, dressed in leaves and with a shaven head,
exuding an aura of asceticism and spiritual authority. The Daityas, intrigued
and curious, began to listen to his teachings.
Maya Mohana cleverly persuaded them to abandon the path of
the Vedas and embrace a new set of beliefs. He propagated teachings that were
contrary to the Vedic principles, encouraging them to forsake sacrifices and
other Vedic practices. Enticed by his persuasive discourse, the Daityas
gradually renounced their adherence to the Vedic religion and followed Maya
Mohana's guidance.
The Fall of the Daityas
As the Daityas distanced themselves from the Vedic
practices, they lost the divine power and strength that these practices had
bestowed upon them. Without the protective and empowering influence of the
Vedas, they became significantly weaker. Hrada, their leader, despite his
initial resistance, could not prevent the downfall of his followers who had
been swayed by Maya Mohana's teachings.
Seizing this opportunity, the Devas launched an attack on
the now-weakened Daityas. Devoid of their Vedic might, the Daityas were easily
overpowered and defeated by the Devas. The victory of the Devas restored
balance and order in the cosmos, reaffirming the supremacy of dharma
(righteousness) and the divine protection of the Vedas.
Significance of the Story
The story of Maya Mohana highlights the power of divine intervention and the importance of adhering to righteous practices. It demonstrates how even the most powerful beings can be rendered vulnerable through deceit and loss of moral integrity. Furthermore, it underscores the role of Vishnu as the preserver and protector of cosmic order, who uses his divine powers to uphold dharma and ensure the triumph of good over evil.