Rama Defeats Parashurama's Challenge

Rama, son of Dasharatha, confronts Parashurama and wields Vishnu's bow, demonstrating his divine power. Gods gather to witness this epic showdown in the Ramayana.

Rama's Response to Parashurama (Shlokas 1.76.1 - 1.76.3)

After hearing Parashurama's words, Rama, son of Dasharatha, respectfully refrained from further conversation out of deference to his father. Instead, Rama addressed Parashurama directly:

"O descendant of Bhrigu, I have heard of your great deeds. I commend you for repaying the debt to your father. However, you underestimate me, assuming I lack the valor of a Kshatriya (warrior class). Today, you shall witness my power and prowess."

Rama Takes the Bow (Shlokas 1.76.4 - 1.76.8)

Enraged by Parashurama's words, Rama swiftly:

1. Grasped the bow from Parashurama's hands

2. Seized an arrow

3. Bent the bow

4. Stretched the bowstring

5. Fixed the arrow in place

Then, Rama spoke to Parashurama:

"You are a Brahmin (priest class) and worthy of respect, especially due to your connection with Vishwamitra. For this reason, I cannot release this life-taking arrow at you. Instead, I offer you a choice:

• I can destroy your ability to move swiftly, a power you earned through ascetic energy.

• Or, I can obliterate the incomparable higher worlds you've attained.

Tell me which you choose. This divine arrow of Vishnu, capable of conquering enemy cities and destroying pride and strength, shall not fall in vain."

Divine Assembly Gathers (Shlokas 1.76.9 - 1.76.11)

To witness Rama wielding the mighty weapon, a great assembly gathered:

• Gods accompanied by sages, led by the grandsire Brahma

• Gandharvas (celestial musicians)

• Apsaras (celestial nymphs)

• Siddhas (accomplished beings)

• Charanas (celestial performers)

• Kinnaras (mythical beings)

• Yakshas (nature spirits)

• Rakshasas (demons)

• Nagas (serpent beings)

As Rama held the excellent bow, the world fell still. Parashurama, now stripped of his power, gazed at Rama in astonishment.

Parashurama Acknowledges Defeat (Shlokas 1.76.12 - 1.76.20)

His energy subdued by Rama's prowess, Parashurama spoke gently:

"Long ago, I gave this earth to Kashyapa. He told me not to live in his country. Following my guru's words, I vowed never to stay on earth during the night. O Rama, you need not destroy my power of movement. I shall depart for Mount Mahendra, the finest of mountains, with the speed of thought.

Instead, strike with your arrow the unrivalled worlds I conquered through asceticism. Do not delay, O Rama. By your ability to stretch this bow, I recognize you as:

• The imperishable Vishnu

• Lord of the gods

• Slayer of Madhu

All the assembled gods are watching you, whose deeds are incomparable and who is unassailable in combat. I feel no shame in being defeated by you, the lord of the three worlds. Release your incomparable arrow, O Rama. After its release, I shall depart for Mount Mahendra."

Rama Releases the Arrow (Shlokas 1.76.21 - 1.76.24)

As Parashurama spoke, Rama, the valiant son of Dasharatha, discharged the excellent arrow. Parashurama witnessed his hard-earned worlds struck by Rama's arrow and swiftly departed for Mount Mahendra.

Following these events:

1. All quarters, including the intermediate ones, were cleared of darkness.

2. Hosts of sages and gods praised Rama as he wielded the bow.

3. Parashurama praised Rama, circumambulated him, and left for his abode.

Thus ends the Seventy Sixth sarga (chapter) of Balakanda (The Book of Youth) of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.