Story of Birth of Khatu Shyam

Story of Birth of Khatu Shyam

The birth of Barbarik, also known as Khatu Shyam, is an intriguing story from Hindu mythology. Barbarik was the son of Ghatotkacha, the powerful warrior and son of Bhima (one of the Pandava brothers), and Maurvi, the daughter of a Naga king.

According to the legend, Ghatotkacha married Maurvi, who belonged to the Nagavanshi (Naga clan). Their union resulted in the birth of a son who possessed extraordinary abilities right from his early years. Barbarik's exceptional archery skills were evident from the time he was a child.

As Barbarik grew older, he became eager to participate in the Kurukshetra war, the great battle described in the Mahabharata. Being the son of Ghatotkacha, a renowned warrior, Barbarik inherited his father's skills and bravery. However, his desire to prove himself on the battlefield surpassed that of ordinary warriors.

Impressed by Barbarik's dedication and his extraordinary talent with the bow and arrow, Lord Krishna decided to test his abilities. Disguised as a Brahmin, Krishna approached Barbarik and asked for his devotion and dedication. Barbarik, recognizing Krishna's divinity, agreed to become his disciple and offered himself to Krishna.

In return for his devotion, Krishna blessed Barbarik with immense power and named him "Barbarik." This name is derived from the word "barbar" which means "extraordinary" or "unconventional."

During their conversation, Krishna revealed the purpose of the Kurukshetra war and the complex dynamics of the battlefield. Barbarik, being an ardent devotee of Krishna, expressed his strong desire to witness the war firsthand and requested Krishna's permission to participate.

Krishna, being aware of Barbarik's exceptional archery skills and his vow to support the weaker side, was confronted with a dilemma. He realized that if Barbarik participated in the war, his support to any side would lead to the immediate defeat of the opposing side. Barbarik's arrows were so powerful that they could instantly kill any enemy.

Understanding the dire consequences of Barbarik's participation, Krishna decided to intervene and prevent Barbarik from taking part in the war. Krishna approached Barbarik and requested a boon. He asked Barbarik for his head in return, as it was the only way to neutralize his invincible power.

Barbarik, true to his word and devoted to Krishna, agreed to Krishna's request without hesitation. He sacrificed his own head and offered it to Krishna, thus displaying his unwavering devotion and readiness to fulfill his guru's wish.

In recognition of his selfless sacrifice and unwavering devotion, Krishna blessed Barbarik and granted him a boon. He declared that Barbarik would be worshipped by people in the Kali Yuga (the current era) and that anyone who invoked his name with sincerity and devotion would receive his blessings and protection.

Thus, Barbarik, also known as Khatu Shyam, became a revered deity in Hindu mythology. His birth and subsequent sacrifice symbolize the ultimate act of devotion and selflessness. Devotees visit the Khatu Shyam temple to seek his blessings and offer their prayers with faith and devotion, believing in the divine power of Khatu Shyam Baba to fulfill their wishes and protect them.

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