Banasura, the Demon with a Thousand Hands

The Thousand-Handed Demon and His Pride

Long ago, there lived a powerful demon named Banasura. Unlike other beings, he was born with a thousand strong arms! With so many hands, he could do amazing things. Most of all, he loved to play the mridangam, a big drum. When Banasura played, the sound was so grand and thunderous that it echoed across the heavens.

Even Lord Shiva, the great god, admired his music. Impressed by Banasura's devotion, Shiva blessed him and promised to protect him like a father. This made Banasura feel safe and proud.

But over time, that pride began to grow into arrogance. Banasura thought no one could ever defeat him-not with Shiva by his side and a thousand hands to fight with. He began to believe he was the greatest of all, and this pride set the stage for the troubles that would soon follow.

Usha's Dream and Chitralekha's Art

Banasura had a beautiful daughter named Usha. One night, she had a strange and wonderful dream. In it, she saw a handsome young prince who stole her heart at once. When Usha woke up, she couldn't stop thinking about him. But she didn't know who he was or where to find him.

Her dear friend Chitralekha wanted to help. She had a magical gift-she could draw people so perfectly that they looked alive. One by one, she began sketching pictures of famous princes and warriors for Usha.

When she finally drew the face of Anniruddha, the grandson of Lord Krishna, Usha's eyes lit up. "Yes! This is him-the prince from my dream!" she cried with joy.

Through her magic, Chitralekha secretly brought Anniruddha to Usha's palace, and the two soon fell deeply in love.

Anniruddha's Capture

Usha was overjoyed to finally meet Anniruddha, the prince from her dream. The two spent happy days together in her palace, talking, laughing, and growing closer. Their hearts were filled with love, and all seemed perfect.

But their secret could not stay hidden for long. One day, Banasura discovered Anniruddha in his daughter's chambers. His anger was fierce. How could a stranger, and the grandson of Krishna no less, be with his precious daughter

Blinded by rage, Banasura ordered his guards to seize Anniruddha. Despite the young prince's bravery, he was overpowered and chained in the palace prison. Usha wept bitterly, but her father's pride and fury were stronger than

Anniruddha's capture set the stage for a mighty battle-because news of his imprisonment soon reached Lord Krishna himself.

Krishna's Heroic Rescue

When news of Anniruddha's capture reached Lord Krishna, he could not stay silent. Anniruddha was his beloved grandson, and Krishna was determined to bring him home safely.

With his army, Krishna marched to Banasura's city. Soon, a great battle shook the land. Arrows flew like rain, conch shells sounded, and warriors clashed with thunderous roars. At the heart of it all stood Krishna, calm and

Banasura fought fiercely, using his many arms to attack from every side. But Krishna's skill and divine strength were unmatched. One by one, Krishna struck and weakened Banasura until the proud demon could fight no more.

Just then, Lord Shiva, who had once promised to protect Banasura, appeared. He pleaded with Krishna to spare the demon's life. Out of respect, Krishna agreed-but he also wanted to teach Banasura a lesson. With a single stroke,

Defeated but alive, Banasura finally bowed his head, his pride gone. Anniruddha was freed, and joy returned to Usha's heart.

The Lesson We Learn

Even strong people can become proud but love, friendship, and kindness always bring everyone back to what's right.

Banasura plays the mridangam with his thousand hands while Lord Shiva watches in admiration