Chapter 11 - The Greatness of Vidyādhara Tirtha

[Sanskrit text for this chapter is available]

[Sanatkumāra continued:]

1. “Henceforth, I shall describe the Tīrtha of Vidyādhara. One who takes the holy bath there and becomes pure, shall become the Lord of Vidyādharas.”

Vyāsa said:

2. O great sage, how did this Tīrtha come into being in the holy spot here? Be pleased to narrate this, O great Brāhmaṇa. I wish to hear it now.

Sanatkumāra said:

3. Formerly there was a Lord of Vidyādharas (named) Rūpadhara. A charming garland of Pārijāta flowers was wreathed by him.

4. He took the garland to the abode of Vāsava (Indra). Menakā was seen by him performing dance in front of Vāsava.

5. That garland was given by him to her during the dance. That Menakā was praised by him at the wrong place (Dance stage). She was fascinated by the garland.

6-7a. The Vidyādhara was cursed by angry Indra: “O sinning wretch, go down to the earth. You have caused interruption to the dance programme. Due to this curse of mine you shall lose the status of Vidyādhara now.”

7b-8. On being told thus by Śakra, the Vidyādhara spoke these words:

“O Lord, this crime has been committed by me unknowingly. So, be pleased (to forgive me) and do a favour.”

9-11. On being requested thus, Śakra spoke to the Vidyādhara: “Go to Avantī now itself. There is a cave named Gāṅgaṭī there. To the north thereof is an excellent Tīrtha. It is known all over the three worlds by the name Vidyādhara. It is auspicious. If holy bath is taken there devoutly, one shall become Lord of Vidyāḍharas. Hence you also assiduously take your holy dip there.”

12-14. On being told thus by Śakra, he came over to the region of Avantī. He took his holy bath in that charming Tīrtha. Due to the efficacy of that Tīrtha, he regained his original position. Thus, O Vyāsa, the auspicious Vidyādhara Tīrtha has been described. He who offers flowers, sandal-paste and unguent there, shall enjoy all types of pleasures in this world as well as the other.