Gems from Srimad Bhagavata (A Book of Short Stories)

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As one deeply interested in the religious and philosophical heritage of India, I was delighted to explore the vast treasure of profound knowledge and devotional fervour packed into Srimad Bhagavata.It was not difficult to realize why it ranks only next to the Vedas in our sacred literature and why it forms the cornerstone for all devotional sects amongst the Hindus.

The Bhagavata contains, amongst others, anecdotes highlighting the devotional aspect, many of which embody unique lessons in ideal moral behavior and character. It is, however, a matter of deep regret that, let alone children and younger people, even a large number of grown-ups are only very vaguely aware or at times unaware at all of these. There are probably no popular short story books covering these anecdotes on the pattern of those from the Ramayana and theMahabharata.

I felt that it is my duty to bring out these gems in the form of short stories for the benefit of all, specially the young readers. A start has been made with this small venture.

The undercurrent of devotion (bhakti) to the Lord permeates through all the stories in the Bhagavata, but those that have been chosen are some that are not well known and which depict the moral aspects as well. Also, commonly known events in the life of Lord Krishna, which form a big chunk in the Srimad Bhagavata have been left out. I trust that this angle will appeal even to those who try to approach the sacred Hindu literature with purely rational angle. My humble submission to the readers, however, is that they should not treat these stories as merely teaching moral behaviour, but as ones that inculcate love for religious heritage as well.

I shall feel amply rewarded if this book serves the purpose for which it has been written.

I am indebted to the great Bhagavata Charita authored by the late Sant Prabhudatta Brahmachari of Jhusi, Allahabad, for providing the inspiration for this effort. The blessings of my parents, late Pt, C.B.Tripathi and late Smt. Durgavati Tripathi, have been behind the urge to delve into our ancient religious lore. The Upanishad Rahasya, written by my father, has been a beacon light to me. I am also indebted to my wife, Smt. Sharda Mani, for constantly encouraging me to go ahead with this new venture of mine. Thanks are also due to Sri Vikas Arya for bringing out the book in an excellent form.