Chapter 1: The Seventh Child

A voice echoed through the hall, full of determination and strength, "So, what should I fear? Whom should I fear? You will gain divine power, Vasudev. This power will rise from the waves of this light."

Vasudev stood there, bewildered, his eyes searching the room. "What happened to you? Why do you look like that? Where is this light coming from? Who is behind it?" he demanded, his voice trembling. "I will crush it right here in front of you and put an end to evil in Mathura."

The audience listened intently as the narrator continued, "You are listening to stories of Krishna from the great epic Srimad Bhagavatam, written by Maharshi Vedavyasa. Today, you will hear about the birth of Balarama."

A curious voice broke the silence, "Oh, I have a question, Acharyadev." It was the young King Parikshit, leaning forward with eagerness. "The seventh child in Devaki's womb, who did not survive, was said to be a part of Lord Vishnu in the divine message. Then why is only the eighth child mentioned? Isn't the seventh child important too?"

Acharyadev, the wise sage, nodded thoughtfully. "You are right, King. The seventh child was indeed like Vishnu, but that child did not remain in Devaki's womb."

Parikshit looked puzzled. "Did not remain? What are you saying, Acharyadev? Then where did the seventh child go?"

The sage's eyes twinkled with mystery. "He went to Rohini in the land of Braj. The serpent Shesha entered Devaki's womb in Mathura's prison but was transferred to Rohini in Braj."

"How did this happen, O wise sage?" Parikshit asked, his curiosity piqued.

"This was the work of Yogamaya," Acharyadev explained. "Without Yogamaya, there would be no divine play, King. She is the main force behind Hari's divine acts."

"Who is Yogamaya, O wise sage? Tell me about Yogamaya," Parikshit implored.

"Of course, I will tell you. Without her, the stories of Krishna cannot begin, Parikshit. But first, listen to the story of Rohini. Ananta Shesha, who left Devaki, entered her womb, and she is no less fortunate."

"King, please tell us, Acharyadev. I am very eager to hear about Devi Rohini," Parikshit urged.

Acharyadev began, "Rohini was the daughter of King Bahlika. Have you heard of Bahlika, King? He was the younger brother of your ancestor, King Shantanu. Besides Rohini, Bahlika had another daughter named Pauravi. In the Swayamvara ceremony, both Rohini and Pauravi married Vasudev. Rohini was Vasudev's wife even before Devaki."

"When Kansa's tyranny reached its peak, Vasudev sent Rohini to the safe haven of his dear friend Nanda in Braj. Kansa did not know about this. Kansa only kept an eye on Devaki, considering her his enemy. He had no issues with the others, which is why he was unaware of Sankarshan's birth."

"Who is Sankarshan, Acharyadev?" Parikshit asked, intrigued.

"The serpent Shesha, who was in Devaki's seventh womb, is Sankarshan. Yogamaya attracted him and sent him to Rohini's womb, which is why he is called Sankarshan."

"How was this attraction possible? Tell me about it, O wise sage," Parikshit requested eagerly.

"I will tell you that story, Parikshit. Before hearing this divine act, we must return to the Supreme Lord Narayan and his Yogamaya. Devaki was pregnant for the seventh time. The time for Lord Hari's arrival on earth was approaching. Before that, Anantadev or Shesha was coming. He is the companion of the Lord's divine play, so he needed to be kept safe. For this task, Lord Hari called upon Yogamaya. She can make the impossible possible, which is why she is also known as the one who turns the impossible into possible."

"How does Yogamaya make the impossible possible?" Parikshit inquired, his eyes wide with wonder.

Acharyadev smiled and explained, "Lord Vishnu has endless wealth and countless powers. With each power, he performs different tasks. The power that helps him perform various divine plays is called Yogamaya. With her limitless abilities, she connects the Lord to the world using her magic. That's why she is named Yogamaya."

"Do you understand, King?" Acharyadev asked gently.

Parikshit nodded slowly. "Yes, Acharyadev, I think I understand a bit now. The divine plays of the Lord are actually his magic. That's why Yogamaya is also known as Vishnumaya. She is a part of the great illusion. This power has a form, but its importance in the divine world is immense."

Acharyadev continued, "One day, Lord Hari called upon Goddess Yogamaya and said, 'Goddess Yogamaya, it's time for you to go to Earth.'"

"Where should I go, Lord? Please instruct me," Yogamaya replied, her voice filled with readiness to serve.

The room fell silent, hanging on every word, as the story of divine intervention unfolded.

Chapter 2: The Divine Task of Yogamaya

As Acharyadev's voice resonated through the room, he continued the tale with a gentle authority that captured the attention of every listener. "You must go to the sacred land of Gokul in Braj, dear one," Lord Hari instructed Goddess Yogamaya. His tone was both commanding and filled with warmth. "It is a very holy and peaceful place. Braj has beautiful natural scenery. Life in Braj is very simple and pure. Everyone there is filled with joy. The king of Braj is Nanda, and his wife's name is Yashoda. One of Vasudeva's wives, Rohini, is also there. King Nanda has kept her safely hidden."

Yogamaya, ever obedient and ready to serve, asked, "Should I announce your arrival in Braj, Lord?"

Lord Hari shook his head. "No, Goddess, the time for that has not come yet. You have a task to do, but be careful, it is very secret. No one should find out. Use your magical powers, Goddess."

Yogamaya nodded solemnly. "As you wish, Lord."

"Listen, Goddess," Lord Hari continued, "the part of me known to everyone as Sheshnag is now in Devaki's womb. But if Sheshnag is born there, he will fall into Kansa's hands. So, you must make that womb disappear."

Yogamaya pondered for a moment before asking, "Very well, Lord. But where will Anantadev go then?"

"Attract him to Gokul and place him in Rohini's womb. He will be born from there. Because of this attraction, he will be named Sankarshan. Then, when I am born as Devaki's child, you will go to Yashoda's womb in Gokul, Goddess."

"As you command, Lord," Yogamaya replied with a deep bow.

Acharyadev explained to the eager listeners, "Because of Yogamaya's attraction, Balarama, who holds the plow, is also known as Sankarshan. Though he was in Devaki's womb, he was born from Rohini's womb."

Curiosity sparked in the eyes of the listeners as one of them asked, "Why did Rohini become Balarama's mother? Is there another reason for this, Acharyadev?"

"Yes, there is!" the sage replied, his eyes twinkling with the knowledge of ancient secrets. "To understand the reason, we must talk about Rohini's past life. In her previous life, Rohini was Kadru. From her womb, the snake clan was born. That's why, in this life too, Sheshnag, in the form of Balarama, was born from her womb."

"Did anyone know about this change of womb, wise sage?" another listener inquired, the room hanging on every word.

"No, no, no. Can anyone know what Yogamaya does in secret?" Acharyadev answered with a knowing smile. "Although Vasudeva and Devaki knew Balarama's true identity, it was kept completely secret at that time. But Kansa knew that Devaki was pregnant for the seventh time, didn't he?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," the listener confirmed, nodding. "It wasn't just Kamsa; all of Mathura knew about it. A few days later, everyone in the city heard that Devaki had lost her baby. This news brought great sadness to Mathura. People began talking to each other."

"Have you heard? Princess Devaki lost her seventh baby..." whispered one townsfolk to another, their voices tinged with sorrow.

"Yes, that's what I heard," another replied, fear creeping into their voice. "We were holding onto a tiny bit of hope, but now that's gone. I'm scared too. We believed in the prophecy that Devaki's eighth child would destroy the evil Kamsa. But what if she loses this baby too? What if the eighth child is lost like the seventh?"

"Don't say that!" another interjected, shaking their head. "How much more can we endure? Oh Lord Narayana, please protect the eighth child."

"Yes, you're right. Now, we can only rely on hope," the first said, their words trailing off into a silent prayer.

Meanwhile, in his dark palace, Kamsa paced restlessly, his mind plagued by doubts. He couldn't accept that Devaki had lost her seventh child so easily. After hearing the news, he stormed to the prison himself, his anxiety boiling over.

"Beware! The great and just Emperor Kamsa is coming. Guards, open the gates immediately," a guard shouted as Kamsa approached, his presence commanding fear and obedience.

"As you command, Your Majesty," the guards responded in unison, quickly obeying his orders.

Kamsa's eyes narrowed as he faced Devaki and Vasudeva. "Is it true, Devaki? Did you lose your baby? How did it happen?" he demanded, suspicion lacing his every word.

Devaki's voice trembled as she replied, "I don't know, I don't know."

"You don't know? You're lying to me. Do you know the punishment for lying?" Kamsa's voice was sharp, cutting through the air like a blade.

Vasudeva stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "Your Majesty, Devaki is already weak and has suffered a great shock. Why are you troubling her?"

Kamsa's eyes darted between them, searching for deceit. "Is it true that the baby was lost, or is there another secret?"

"I'm telling the truth, Your Majesty," Vasudeva insisted. "Devaki's seventh child is gone. Such things can happen. There's no mystery here, Your Majesty. Please believe us."

But Kamsa was not convinced. "I don't trust any of you, Vasudeva. I need to know the real truth. Guards, bring the royal advisor here at once."

"Yes, Your Majesty, right away," the guards replied, hurrying to fulfill his command.

And so, the tension in the air grew thicker, as the fate of the divine children and the destiny of the kingdom hung precariously in the balance.

Chapter 3: The Birth of Balarama

The royal advisor entered the throne room, his footsteps echoing in the tense silence. "Did you call for me, Your Majesty? What are your orders?" he inquired, bowing respectfully.

Kamsa's eyes were sharp with suspicion. "How did Devaki lose her baby this time?" he demanded, his voice a low growl. "Do you know what happened? Tell the truth, or you'll lose your head."

The advisor swallowed hard, his voice steady despite the threat. "I won't lie, Your Majesty. The princess truly had a miscarriage."

Kamsa leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "How did it happen? You were supposed to watch over Devaki."

"I wasn't there at the time, Your Majesty," the advisor admitted, his gaze fixed on the floor. "But as soon as I heard, I came immediately. I checked and found that the princess's child was indeed lost, Your Majesty."

Kamsa slammed his fist on the armrest of his throne, frustration etched on his face. "This is unbelievable! This wasn't supposed to happen. Is this some kind of divine magic? The eighth child... is its time approaching?" He paused, then barked an order to the city guard. "Increase the number of guards at the prison so not even a fly can get through."

Meanwhile, in the village of Gokul, there was a wave of joy. On the sixth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadra, a divine child was born to Rohini Devi. Everyone knew this child was special. A child born without a father, emerging solely from a mother's womb, couldn't be like others. Balaram was one such child.

He was unique, completely different from the other children in Gokul. His fair complexion was unmatched, his body seeming to glow with light. His long hair and beautiful eyes were unlike any other. Even as a baby, he was calm and steady. His mother, Rohini, dressed him in blue clothes, adorned his tiny feet with anklets, and placed small bangles on his hands. The people of Gokul were filled with joy at the sight of him.

One day, Garg Muni, a revered sage, arrived in Gokul. Known as the son of Maharshi Bharadwaj and Sushila, Garg Muni was a guru respected by the Yadav clan, with influence in both Mathura and Gokul. Both Vasudev and King Nanda were his disciples.

Upon hearing of Gurudev's arrival, King Nanda welcomed him warmly. "Welcome, Gurudev! What a blessing it is for us that you have come to bless us. Please accept my humble greetings."

"Nanda, I am pleased with your devotion," Garg Muni replied with a smile. "I heard a newborn has arrived in your home. I have come to see him. Where is he?"

"This way, Gurudev," Nanda said eagerly, leading him. "Rohini Devi has a child. Here, please come, Gurudev. What a beautiful child, like a piece of the moon."

"Gurudev, you must name this child. Who else but you can do this? If today you could..."

"Wait, Nanda, wait," Garg Muni interrupted gently. "Let me meditate first, then I will tell you the name."

Under a tree, Gargacharya sat in meditation. Afterward, his face shone with a strange glow, and he smiled a sweet, wonderful smile. He called King Nanda aside for a private conversation.

"What did you think of the child, Gurudev? Is everything okay? Will there be any danger?" Nanda asked, his voice tinged with concern.

"Danger? What are you saying, Nanda?" Garg Muni replied, his voice reassuring. "This child himself is the remover of danger. He was born to destroy danger. This child is very pure, Nanda. He was born through divine means."

"Gurudev, suddenly in Rohini Devi's womb..."

"Not suddenly, Nanda," Garg Muni said with a knowing look. "I see a strong connection between this child and Vasudev and Devaki of Mathura. Take good care of him, Nanda. You are very fortunate."

"Give the newborn a name, Gurudev."

Garg Muni nodded. "Among all living beings, this boy will be the strongest, so I name him Balaram."

"Why is Balarama called Haladhari, Acharyadev?" a child asked, his eyes wide with curiosity.

"Because he always carried a plow, which was his weapon," Acharyadev explained. "He was the best at fighting with a mace, but he liked the plow even more. Balarama is also known as Baladeva or Balabhadra."

"And were the two avatars of Lord Vishnu the same in nature, Acharyadev?"

"Not at all," Acharyadev replied with a gentle smile. "Lord Vishnu's Krishna avatar and his last serpent avatar were very different. They were complete opposites. Krishna was lively, while Balarama was calm. Krishna never got angry and always had a sweet smile. But once Balarama got angry..."

Acharyadev's eyes twinkled with wisdom as he continued, "You see, once Balarama got angry, there was no stopping him. He could destroy everything in his path. While Krishna was clever and skillful, Balarama embraced simplicity and straightforwardness. Complicated matters never interested him. Despite their contrasting natures, the two brothers shared an unbreakable bond. There was never any conflict between them. But that is a tale for another day. Let me tell you about Yogamaya, King."

King Parikshit leaned forward, curiosity evident in his eyes. "Did Yogamaya have any other tasks after bringing Balarama to Rohini's womb? Please tell me."

Acharyadev nodded. "Yes, indeed. She played a crucial role in all the events surrounding Krishna's birth and the delightful pastimes in Vrindavan. Without her, none of these divine plays could occur. She made the impossible possible. The strong attraction of Vrindavan to Lord Hari was also due to Yogamaya. That's why Lord Hari sent her ahead of him. He paved a new path."

"A new path?" King Parikshit asked, his interest piqued. "What path are you talking about, wise sage? What orders is Lord Hari giving to Yogamaya?"

"Lord Narayana is establishing the power of Narayani," Acharyadev explained. "This Kali Yuga will be an age of power, with its foundation being laid from the Dvapara Yuga, King."

"What is the connection between the eighth pregnancy of Devaki and power, Acharyadev?" Parikshit inquired, eager to understand.

"There is a deep connection, Parikshit," Acharyadev replied. "When Lord Hari enters Devaki's womb, at the same time, Yogamaya will enter the womb of Yashoda in Gokul. He is giving this command. Her presence will be established on Earth, and Narayana and Narayani's powers will descend together. Lord Hari is saying this too."

Acharyadev's voice took on a reverent tone as he recounted, "He tells Goddess Yogamaya, 'Take birth in the womb of Nanda's wife, Yashoda, O blessed one. I will be born in Devaki's womb at the same time. But your birth is not just to follow my orders. Goddess, you will be famous on Earth as the giver of boons. People will pray to you and worship you. They will offer incense, lamps, and food to you.'"

"'Serving you is my only focus, Lord. I do not think of my own establishment. I will follow your orders,'" Acharyadev continued, embodying the divine dialogue.

"God, you are my strength. Goddess, you are one with me. On Earth, you will be known as Narayani Durga, Bhadrakali, Chandika, and Sarada. Goddess, your presence will be established here. Whatever you command will happen, O Great One. I will stay on Earth as the power of Narayani and accept everyone's worship."

The sage paused, allowing the king to absorb the magnitude of the divine plan. "Brahma and his power are the same. Narayan and Narayani's power are one. Power is actually whole and cannot be divided. However, different tasks require different kinds of power. This vast, undivided power shows itself in many forms and names. So, everything is part of that great power."

"Narayani's power came to Earth before Narayan, right?" the king asked, seeking clarity.

"They came together, O King. When Balarama was born, Yogamaya didn't need to come physically. Through her divine influence, she transferred the fetus from Devaki to Rohini. But now, she must come. On Earth..."

Acharyadev's voice grew softer, almost as if sharing a secret, "For the first time, her attractive power is taking a different form with an avatar."

"What happened during Devaki's eighth pregnancy? Please tell me, wise sage," the king implored.

"This pregnancy of Devaki's didn't happen naturally, O King. The eighth pregnancy was created by divine power and magic. Narayan and his Vishnu Maya worked together here because the one coming is an avatar."

"What is an avatar, wise sage?" Parikshit asked, his mind eager to grasp the concept.

"An avatar is someone who comes to show people the path to freedom. They come to destroy evil and protect the good. They spread the message of righteousness suited to the times. They set an example with their actions," Acharyadev explained.

"I understand, wise sage. Now, please explain the reason for Krishna's birth, dear teacher," the king requested, his voice full of anticipation.

Acharyadev leaned closer, his voice gentle yet firm. "First, know this, O King. The birth of an avatar is not like any ordinary birth. There is a big difference between the birth of gods and humans. Ordinary human births have no special purpose; they are born to experience the results of their actions. But when God is born as a human, it is not just a birth. It is called an appearance."

Chapter 4: The Divine Appearance

Acharyadev continued, “It is called an appearance because God is eternal, without beginning or end. He does not truly experience birth or death. When the world needs him, he takes on a body, and when his work is complete, he leaves it of his own will. This is unlike ordinary beings, who have no control over their birth or death. Everything for them is destined. Do you understand the difference, O King?”

King Parikshit nodded thoughtfully. “Yes, dear teacher. I understand now why his coming is called an appearance. But my heart is eager to know more about this great event. Please, tell me everything, wise sage.”

Acharyadev smiled warmly, seeing the king’s eagerness. “Very well. Let us delve deeper into this divine tale. The conception of Devaki’s eighth child was unlike any other. An avatar does not follow the usual rules of birth. When God enters a mother's womb, the father's physical role is not necessary. This was true for the Ram avatar, and it is the same for Krishna. Vasudeva is not Krishna's biological father.”

The king’s eyes widened in amazement. “Incredible! How then was this child conceived? Such a miraculous event is unheard of. Brahmarishi Sukh, we have eagerly awaited this moment.”

Maharishi Angira leaned forward, his voice filled with nostalgia. “Oh, how long it has been since I last saw little Ramachandra's face! Even now, in my mind's eye, he remains a child. Please, Brahmarishi Sukh, share these divine stories once more. There is no difference between child Ram and Krishna. Narayan is coming again, and his human form is truly beautiful. Sharing these tales with great souls like you and King Parikshit makes their glory shine even brighter.”

Devarshi Narada, who had just entered, nodded in agreement. “Narayan, Narayan. What divine play! These stories you share, Sukrishi, fill my heart with sweetness. My father heard them from you, and I tasted this nectar from him. Wherever these stories are told becomes like heaven itself.”

Sukhdev, with a voice as calm as a gentle stream, continued, “Hari Hari, indeed. Speaking of Hari and hearing of Sukh, I feel blessed to recount the Lord's birth once more. To understand how the infinite Lord entered Devaki's womb, one must first understand how Vasudeva became fearless.”

Vasudeva, though imprisoned by the cruel Kamsa, was a devoted follower of Lord Hari. Despite the harsh conditions, he never lost hope. Sitting on the cold prison floor, he meditated regularly, his mind sharp and clear. After the miraculous event of Devaki's seventh pregnancy, he was mentally prepared. As the time for the eighth pregnancy approached, his calmness, patience, and meditation only grew stronger.

That evening, Vasudeva sat down to meditate as darkness enveloped the prison. His meditation was deep and profound. Suddenly, within himself, he saw a bright light. Vasudeva was amazed. “What is this?” he wondered. “I have never seen such a strange light before. It spreads within me like the ocean. Where does it come from? Who is behind this? I cannot see anything else.”

The light seemed to fill him with a divine peace, as if the presence of the Lord himself was near. And thus, the stage was set for the miraculous birth of Krishna, the divine avatar who would change the world forever.

Chapter 5: The Divine Light

In the quiet confines of the prison cell, Vasudeva was enveloped in a radiant light, a brightness so intense that it seemed to pulse with divine energy. He heard a voice, clear and serene, speaking to him from within the light.

"Vasudeva, can you see me? Look carefully. You will see me."

Confused and overwhelmed, Vasudeva squinted into the dazzling light. "Who are you, Lord?" he asked, shielding his eyes with his hand. "I can't see anything in this light. My eyes are dazzled. Will I go blind?"

The voice, filled with warmth and reassurance, replied, "No, Vasudeva. Why would you go blind? Now your vision will open. You will gain divine strength, Vasudeva. This power will rise from the waves of this light. Become strong, Vasudeva. Let all your fears and worries disappear. Become complete, Vasudeva."

Vasudeva felt a surge of energy coursing through him. "Yes, now I can see you, Lord," he whispered in awe. "Lord Narayana has appeared in my heart. This sweet, enchanting form cannot be seen even after lifetimes of penance, Lord. And I, how fortunate I am that you have come yourself, Lord."

"Be calm, Vasudeva," the voice instructed gently. "What you see is true. See my presence everywhere, inside and out. Witness my divine form. Become powerful with my strength, Vasudeva. I am coming, I am coming to you now."

Tears of gratitude filled Vasudeva's eyes. "Oh Lord, Oh Supreme God, Oh Teacher of the World, accept my greetings, Lord. I am very ordinary, very simple. Your kindness towards me is so wonderful. Just like clouds move away from the sky, all my fears are leaving my mind. The strength of a lion is awakening within me. I fear no one, no one at all. No one can stop me now. I am as steadfast as a mountain."

In the dim light of that half-dark room, Vasudeva stood up. His face and eyes shone with immense brightness, as if he had the strength of a thousand elephants. The calm, gentle man was transformed into a powerful, radiant soul. No worldly bonds could hold him anymore. He was willingly in Kamsa's prison, yet he felt free. With his hands folded near his chest, Vasudeva bowed to his beloved deity. Then he slowly went to stand beside Devaki.

It was late at night, and Devaki was sleeping deeply. The spirit of the seventh divine child had touched her, filling her with a heavenly joy. Vasudeva saw this happiness shining on her sleeping face. He gently sat beside her, stroked her head, and whispered softly, "Devaki, Devaki, wake up, Devaki."

Devaki stirred and slowly opened her eyes, her voice barely a whisper. "Who are you? What happened?"

"Come, come with me," Vasudeva said, his voice filled with a new resolve.

In a corner of the prison cell, a small lamp was burning. Vasudeva led Devaki to sit beside it. In the lamp's light, Vasudeva's face became clear. Devaki stared at him in amazement, unable to speak. His face seemed to glow with a strange peace and strength. The lamp's light seemed to shine through Vasudeva's body. Devaki didn’t recognize this side of her husband; she had never seen him like this before. Surprised, she asked, "What? What happened to you? Why do you look like this? I’ve never seen you like this before."

Vasudeva smiled gently. "No words, Devaki. No words. Remember Lord Narayana in your heart and stay calm. The strength you see in me is not mine. This glow is not mine. My heart is filled with the light of the Supreme. The Lord himself is within me, revealed inside me. He is coming, Devaki, he is coming. He told me this himself. Narayana is coming, the Lord himself is coming. Believe it."

"Is it true?" Devaki asked, hope blossoming in her heart. "Yes, dear, yes, Narayana himself is coming to us. His words cannot be false. Our days of sorrow will end. Joy will return to the world. When the joyful Lord Hari comes, there can be no sadness anywhere. Oh Lord, give me the strength to welcome you. Make me worthy, Lord. Make me worthy."

Vasudeva nodded, his heart full of devotion. "With this fire as a witness, I am giving you a blessing, Devaki. Through this blessing, all my inner strength will flow into you. May that infinite strength now enter your womb."

In that silent night, Vasudeva blessed Devaki. Then they both went into deep meditation. The light, energy, and strength of Vasudeva's body and mind now made Devaki shine too. Her appearance changed. The guards of Kamsa were amazed to see her, their eyes wide with wonder at the transformation before them.

Chapter 6: The Eighth Sign

In the dim light of the prison, questions lingered like shadows. How could Devaki and Vasudeva, even amidst neglect and hardship, glow with such radiance and strength? News of this mystery reached the royal nurse, who promptly visited, only to find the unmistakable signs of another pregnancy in Devaki. Without delay, she sent word to King Kansa.

"Long live the king!" the messenger announced as he entered the royal chamber. Kansa, distracted from his thoughts, turned to face him.

"Any news?" Kansa asked, his voice heavy with anticipation.

"Yes, Your Majesty," the messenger replied, a hint of urgency in his tone. "Princess Devaki is pregnant again. I came to tell you as soon as I heard from the nurse."

"What?" Kansa exclaimed, his eyes narrowing in disbelief. "Pregnant again? This is the eighth time." He paused, collecting his thoughts before addressing the messenger with a stern expression. "Listen, tell the guards to keep a close watch. I will not tolerate any excuses. This child will be born. There is no chance of a miscarriage this time. Make sure not even a bird can get near the prison. The nurse will not enter without my permission. Do you understand? Now go."

"Yes, Your Majesty, I understand. Everything will be done as you ordered. Long live the king," the messenger replied, bowing before he exited the room.

Left alone, Kansa wrestled with his fears. "The eighth pregnancy," he muttered to himself. "The eighth pride. Will the prophecy come true? If it does... No, no, what am I thinking?" He shook his head, trying to dismiss the unsettling thoughts. "Devaki's last pregnancy ended in loss. Maybe this one will too. How can a child be born in a prison without care? And even if it is born, it will die by my hand. So what do I have to fear? Who should I fear?"

But despite his attempts at reassurance, the seeds of doubt had taken root in Kansa's mind. The divine voice from the prophecy echoed in his ears, haunting him with questions he couldn't answer. Unable to calm himself, he paced restlessly, his mind a storm of anxiety. Finally, after days of inner turmoil, he decided to visit the prison himself.

"Devaki, Devaki?" Kansa called as he entered the dim cell.

"Come in, Your Majesty. Come in," Devaki replied, her voice steady despite the circumstances.

"So, Devaki is going to be a mother for the eighth time," Kansa said, his gaze fixed on her.

"Yes, Your Majesty. The signs of Devaki's eighth pregnancy are showing," Vasudeva confirmed, standing by Devaki's side.

"Be careful, Vasudeva," Kansa warned, his voice laced with menace. "Don't try any tricks with this child. I will smash it right here in front of you and rid Mathura of this evil."

"What can we do from this prison, Your Majesty?" Vasudeva replied calmly. "How could we deceive you?"

Kansa's anger simmered, but as he looked at Devaki, a shiver ran down his spine. Her calmness, her radiance—could this be possible? His thoughts were interrupted by a sudden, inexplicable change. The iron chains clattered open, and the guards fell into a deep, unnatural sleep. Outside, a fierce storm gathered, howling through the night.

Vasudeva, seizing the moment, ran madly towards the Yamuna River, cradling the precious life within his arms. Back in the prison, Devaki sat chanting prayers, her heart pounding with fear and hope. Her face turned pale with worry, yet the blue-skinned baby she had just birthed laughed joyfully, as if aware of the miracle unfolding around him.