The Parasurama avatar, one of the ten avatars of Vishnu, is rich with lesser-known stories and fascinating events that go beyond his famous narrative of eradicating the Kshatriyas 21 times. Here are some of these lesser-known tales:
1. Killing of Renuka's Killers
Parasurama beheaded his mother, Renuka, on the orders of his
father, Jamadagni. But his brothers had refused to obey the command of their
father. As a result, Jamadagni cursed them, turning them into stones. However,
after Parasurama's action, Jamadagni granted him a boon, and Parasurama revived
his mother and freed his brothers from the curse using the boon.
2. The Battle with Sahasrarjuna
While the tale of Parasurama's conflict with Kartavirya Arjuna (Sahasrarjuna) is known, the detailed battle sequences are less popular. Parasurama engaged in an intense battle with Sahasrarjuna, who had a thousand arms and the boon of invincibility. Parasurama, using his divine axe, decimated Sahasrarjuna’s army and eventually beheaded him, avenging his father's death.
3. Creation of Kerala
According to legend, Parasurama threw his axe from Gokarna into the sea, and the sea receded, revealing a new stretch of land that became Kerala. This act earned him the title of the creator of Kerala, where he is still worshipped as the presiding deity.
4. Encounter with Lord Ganesha
One day, Parasurama visited Mount Kailash to meet Lord Shiva. However, Lord Ganesha stopped him at the entrance, and an enraged Parasurama attacked Ganesha with his axe. To respect the weapon gifted by his father, Ganesha allowed it to sever one of his tusks. This is why Ganesha is often depicted with a broken tusk.
5. Association with Ramayana
Parasurama's interaction with Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, is another intriguing episode. During Sita’s swayamvara, Rama broke Shiva's bow. Parasurama, enraged at this act, confronted Rama. However, realizing Rama's divine nature, he calmed down and blessed him, recognizing him as the next Vishnu avatar.
6. Guru of Martial Arts
Parasurama is considered the guru of many renowned warriors and sages, including Bhishma, Drona, and Karna from the Mahabharata. His knowledge and mastery over weaponry and martial arts were unparalleled, making him a revered teacher.
7. The Retribution of Kartyaveeryarjuna's Sons
After killing Kartavirya Arjuna, Parasurama was confronted by the sons of Kartavirya, who attacked his hermitage and killed Jamadagni. Parasurama vowed revenge and pursued them relentlessly, eliminating all Kshatriyas who supported his father's killers, culminating in the famous 21 campaigns.
8. Penance and Atonement
Despite his warrior nature, Parasurama undertook severe penance and atonement for the violence he inflicted. He is said to have donated land and performed rituals to cleanse the sins associated with his Kshatriya annihilation campaigns, reflecting his complex character and dedication to dharma.
These stories highlight Parasurama's multifaceted personality, his unwavering devotion to his parents, his fierce warrior spirit, and his role as a protector and teacher, making him a unique and revered figure in Hindu mythology.