The Immortals of Hindu Mythology
In Hinduism, the concept of the "Chiranjeevis" represents seven immortal beings that are said to exist until the end of the current cosmic cycle, known as Kali Yuga, and survive the destruction that occurs between cycles. These Chiranjeevis are prominently mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and Vedas and hold unique qualities or roles. Let us delve into each of these Chiranjeevis and their significance.
Who are the seven immortals?
1. Ashwathama:
Ashwathama, son of Guru Dronacharya and his wife Kripi. He played a significant role in the Mahabharata as he learned all skills from Dronacharya himself. He infamously killed Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna, a heinous crime given that Abhimanyu was still fulfilling his warrior duties.
As a result, Ashwathama was cursed by Krishna himself, wandering the earth seeking redemption for his grave offense committed during the Kurukshetra War.
2. Mahabali:
Mahabali, also known as Bali Chakravarthy or Dharmaswami. He was a benevolent and charitable king who ruled the ancient land of Kerala even before Lord Rama. According to Bhagvata Purana and Vishnu Purana Bali was the powerful demon king but known for his devotion and commitment to righteousness earned him the title of "Dharmaswami," meaning "Lord of Righteousness."
Impressed by Mahabali's unwavering dedication and self-sacrifice, Lord Vishnu granted him immortality. Mahabali requested permission to visit his people and his kingdom once a year. Lord Vishnu granted the permission and the festival of Onam is believed to mark the every year return of Mahabali to his kingdom. During Onam, people celebrate the spirit of King Mahabali with grand feasts, traditional dances, and various festivities
3. Vyasa:
VedVyasa is one of the most important figures in Hindu mythology and is credited with compiling and classifying the four Vedas, the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and the Puranas which are considered the most ancient and sacred texts of Hinduism.
He is also considered one of the seven Chiranjeevis and the festival of Vyasa Purnima is celebrated in his honor, acknowledging his role in preserving and disseminating the sacred knowledge of Hinduism due to his vast knowledge and contributions to Hindu literature.
4. Hanuman:
Lord Hanuman is one of the most revered and worshipped deities in Hinduism. Lord Hanuman is the son of Vayu, the Hindu god of wind, and his beloved wife Anjani. He was born with extraordinary abilities and powers.
.Vibhishana was the younger brother of Ravana, the antagonist and the trusted minister of Lanka in the Ramayana. Vibhishana chose to ally with Lord Rama as Ravana abducted the Sita, the wife of Lord Rama and upheld dharma (righteousness).
When Rama and his army invaded Lanka to rescue Sita, Vibhisana saw an opportunity to redeem himself. He secretly contacted Lord Rama and offered to help him defeat Ravana. Lord Rama was initially dought of Vibhisana's motives and intention, but he soon realized that Vibhisana was sincere in his desire to do what was good for Lanka. Due to his virtue and loyalty, he was granted immortality by lord Rama.
6. Kripacharya:
Kripacharya was a prominent sage and martial arts teacher in the Mahabharata for both Pandvas and Kauravs. He was known for his impartiality, wisdom, and exceptional combat skills. Legend has it that Kripacharya, as a child, displayed exceptional qualities. One day, while he was still a boy, he accidentally killed a young Brahmin boy named Shringi. The boy's father, Shrona, who was also a sage, cursed Kripacharya for this act.
However, due to Kripacharya's virtuous nature and his genuine intentions, Sage Shrona amended the curse. Instead of death, Kripacharya was granted immortality with a long life, and he was granted protection in the form of invincibility on the battlefield. This protection made him immortal in the sense that he couldn't be easily killed in combat.
7. Parashurama:
Lord Vishnu had a warrior sage named Parashurama as one of his avatars. Known for his use of the Parashu axe, he is credited with restoring societal harmony by overthrowing despotic leaders. Because he is heavenly, he is regarded as one of the Chiranjeevi.
Conclusion:
These seven Chiranjeevis are thought to still be alive today and will be so till the end of the current era. They are reported to be traveling the globe, lending a hand to people in need, and dispersing wisdom and information. According to legend, during the Kali Yuga, all of the Chiranjeevis and Lord Kalki, Vishnu's upcoming incarnation, will battle Kali.
Please be aware that there are many distinct versions of Hindu mythology, and that various writings and retellings may change in these seven Chiranjeevis' status and traits. Some of us think there are eight, but the Chiranjeevis are still seven according to granthas and classical Hindu writings.
