The story how swan got pure white color is a fascinating one in Hinduism, highlighting the theme of divine intervention and transformation
Long ago, in the kingdom of Usheerabeeja, King Marutta
organized a grand Mahesvarayajna, a sacred fire ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The yajna was attended by numerous gods and divine beings, including Indra, the
king of the gods, Yama, the god of death, Varuna, the god of the oceans, and
Kubera, the lord of wealth.
However, amidst the divine gathering, a sudden disturbance
occurred when Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka, known for his
near-invincibility granted by Brahma's boon, arrived at the yajna. Fear gripped
the hearts of the demi-gods, for they knew of Ravana's formidable might.
In a bid to evade Ravana's attention and protect themselves,
the gods resorted to transformation. Indra assumed the form of a majestic
peacock, with its vibrant plumage and graceful demeanor. Yama, the lord of
death, morphed into a cunning crow, blending into the shadows with its dark
feathers. Varuna, recognizing the need for disguise, chose to become a swan,
hoping to escape notice amidst the purity of its white plumage. Lastly, Kubera,
the guardian of wealth, transformed into a chameleon, adept at blending into
its surroundings.
Through their clever disguises, the gods managed to evade
Ravana's scrutiny, thereby safeguarding themselves and the sanctity of the
yajna. Impressed by the bravery and sacrifice of these animals and birds, the
gods bestowed blessings upon them as tokens of gratitude before departing.
Varuna, in particular, bestowed upon the swan a remarkable
blessing—the gift of pure white color, symbolizing purity and grace.
Henceforth, the swan adorned its feathers with pristine whiteness, a testament
to the divine favor it had received during the tumultuous events of the
Mahesvarayajna.
This tale serves as a reminder of the power of sacrifice and
divine intervention, as well as the significance of purity and grace in Hindu
tradition.