Chapter 1: The Threat of Jarasandha

The soft strains of music filled the air as the special segment, "Times of the Past," began. It was a time for stories, for legends, and today, the tale was one of courage and destiny.

"Come before me today, and I will teach you about defeat," a voice boomed with confidence. "You will fall by my hands. This is destiny."

Another voice, filled with disdain, responded, "This arrogant one thinks of himself as a great scholar. I have come to this world to punish those who wear the symbols of religion but do not follow its practices. Only the second Pandava, Bhimasena, can defeat him. Death itself stands at your doorstep. Show your bravery without speaking, just as I am doing now."

The narration continued, carrying the listeners into the world of ancient texts, the Srimad Bhagavat Mahapurana and the Garga Samhita, penned by the sage Vedavyasa.

"Today, you will hear the chapter of Shalya's defeat. Hari Om," the storyteller announced, as the music swelled once more.

In the court of a wise king, a dialogue unfolded. "I heard you speak of peace in Dwarka, Acharyadev. But what does peace in Dwarka mean? Is there peace everywhere else in the world too?"

"There are two types of conflicts, King," replied the learned sage. "One is direct conflict, and the other is internal conflict. As long as there is no attack from outside, it's hard to understand the burning inside."

"Was there any situation like that, Lord?" the king asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Yes, King. A greater conflict was brewing. But I am not talking about the Kurukshetra you know from your ancestors' tales," the sage explained. "I am speaking of the threat from Jarasandha. Jarasandha was preparing to attack Dwarka, even though he knew he couldn't succeed. Krishna had created a safe kingdom surrounded by the sea. Besides, Jarasandha didn't hold Krishna's kingdom in high regard. Instead, he had a grander plan. Jarasandha wanted to rule over all the kingdoms of the world."

The king's eyes widened in disbelief. "How is that possible, Lord? Are all the other kings of the world weak? If so, why didn't they unite?"

"He didn't let them unite," the sage continued. "Jarasandha's prison was the largest and darkest in the world. He captured the kings of the lands he conquered and threw them into his prison. He gave them no chance. In this way, the prison became filled with the small and large powers of the world."

The king shuddered at the thought. "How terrifying. What did he plan to do with these kings? Was it just about taking over kingdoms?"

"No, Parikshit. His desires were even more dreadful. Jarasandha wanted to sacrifice these kings. He had vowed to offer them as a sacrifice to his deity, Lord Shiva, once he had captured 1000 kings."

The king gasped. "What a disaster! But why? What was the reason for such horrible cruelty, Lord?"

"Jarasandha wanted to become immortal. He believed that by offering the heads of 1000 kings to Shiva, he would achieve immortality," the sage revealed.

"And then, what happened, wise sage?" the king asked, leaning forward in his seat.

"One day, the imprisoned kings learned about Jarasandha's hidden desire. But who could save them from the hands of the world's greatest warrior? They were worried and thought hard about it. Finally, they remembered one person: Vasudeva Krishna. Krishna."

The sage paused, letting the weight of the name sink in. "They knew deep in their hearts that no one else could achieve this impossible task. So, very secretly, the kings sent a messenger to Krishna. The messenger arrived in Dwarka and stood in Krishna's court."

The messenger, with a deep bow, addressed Lord Krishna. "May you be blessed. O messenger, from where have you brought messages?"

"Lord," the messenger began, his voice filled with urgency, "when King Jarasandha set out to conquer lands, many kings refused to accept his rule. Jarasandha forcefully captured those kings and threw them into prison. They have been imprisoned ever since. They are suffering greatly under Jarasandha's cruelty. I have come to you on their behalf."

Krishna listened intently, nodding. "Yes, messenger, I have heard of their misfortune. But tell me in detail what kind of help they expect from me."

The tale was just beginning, and the fate of many hung in the balance.

Chapter 2: A Call for Aid and a Plan Unfolds

The air in the grand hall of Dwaraka was tense with anticipation as the messenger continued, his voice steady, "Lord Krishna, the imprisoned kings have sent you a heartfelt plea. Their message reads: 'O Krishna, we know you as the Lord of the Universe, the one who has descended to vanquish evil and protect the world. Though Jarasandha has lost to you seventeen times, his arrogance grew after his last victory. We are your devoted followers, and knowing this, Jarasandha and his allied kings have tormented us relentlessly. He possesses the strength of a hundred elephants, and we are powerless against him. We seek your refuge, Lord. You are known to protect those who come to you. Please rescue us from this ordeal and bless us with your presence.'"

Krishna nodded thoughtfully as he listened. "Indeed, Jarasandha's arrogance has become a menace. Very well, if the imprisoned kings desire my assistance, I shall free them. You may inform them of my decision," Krishna declared with resolve. "Greetings to you, O Vasudeva. May you emerge victorious."

Just as Krishna was speaking with the messenger, a sudden hush fell over the court as the great sage Narada appeared. At once, everyone, including Krishna, rose to honor the venerable sage. With great respect, Krishna invited Narada to sit, saying, "O wise sage, I hope all is well in the three worlds. Your travels across the universe bring invaluable news to me here in Dwaraka. Nothing is unknown to you in this creation. Please tell me, are the Pandavas faring well?"

Narada, with a gentle smile, replied, "Dear Lord, while you are all-knowing, it is my privilege to share the news of your creation. Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, is planning a grand ceremony called the Rajasuya Yagna. He wishes to honor you through this ritual. I humbly ask for your blessing and approval to proceed."

Krishna listened intently, but before he could respond, Narada added, "Forgive my boldness, Vasudeva, but isn't it your foremost duty to aid the messenger who seeks help for the captive kings?"

Krishna nodded, acknowledging the sage's point. "Indeed, let us consult Uddhava for his wisdom," Krishna suggested, turning to his dear friend. "Uddhava, you are my trusted advisor. Your insight and sense of duty are unparalleled. Please, tell us what course of action we should take."

Uddhava, a devoted follower of Krishna, stepped forward. "Lord, I believe we should heed the sage Narada's advice and participate in the Pandavas' Rajasuya Yagna," he began. "Protecting those who seek refuge is a noble duty, but it requires careful planning. To ensure the success of the Rajasuya Yagna, one must conquer all directions, and defeating Jarasandha is key. This will not only free the captive kings but also pave the way for the yagna's success."

Krishna nodded, understanding the complexity of the situation. "You are right, Uddhava. But how can we defeat Jarasandha?" he asked, seeking further counsel.

Uddhava continued, "Lord, Jarasandha is as mighty as 100,000 elephants, and many great warriors have failed against him. However, Bhimasena, the second Pandava, has the strength to match him. If Jarasandha were to engage in battle with his vast army, the task would be daunting. But there is another way. Jarasandha is a devout follower of Brahmins. If a Brahmin were to request something, he would not refuse. Bhimasena, disguised as a Brahmin, could challenge Jarasandha to a duel. With your presence in the battle, Bhimasena will surely triumph, and the captive kings can be freed and returned to their rightful thrones."

Krishna smiled at the wisdom of his friend, seeing the path clearly now. The plan was set, and the wheels of destiny began to turn.

Chapter 3: The Journey Begins

Krishna listened intently to the prayers of the captive kings. He was known never to turn away anyone seeking refuge, and the misdeeds of Jarasandha had indeed reached their peak. Now was the time to act. After hearing Uddhav's wise suggestion, Krishna addressed his companions with a calm yet determined voice.

"I find Uddhav's proposal completely acceptable," he announced. "Now, I want to know what you all think."

One of the elders nodded in agreement, his voice filled with respect. "As you wish, Vasudeva. There can't be a better plan than what Uddhav has suggested. Please, set off for Indraprastha soon, Lord."

With a nod of approval, Krishna agreed, "Alright, let's begin preparations for the journey. But first, we must seek the permission of Father Vasudeva and the other elders."

With that, Krishna called upon his loyal charioteer, Daruka. "Prepare the chariot," he instructed. After receiving the blessings of King Ugrasena and his brother Balarama, Krishna set off for Indraprastha. His chariot, adorned with the Garuda flag, was a sight to behold. Alongside him traveled Rukmini and his many wives and children, a testament to his divine family.

Before departing, Krishna turned to the messenger of the captive kings. "Messenger," he said with compassion, "you may return. The kings' freedom is near. I wish for their well-being in every way. I will ensure their release by defeating Jarasandha."

Reassured by Krishna's words, the messenger made his way back to Girivraja, Jarasandha's capital, to deliver the hopeful message to the captive kings. Upon hearing this news, the kings felt a renewed sense of hope, eagerly awaiting the day of their liberation.

As Krishna's chariot raced through the lands, he journeyed through Anarta, Sauvira, the vast desert lands, and Kurukshetra, making his way towards Indraprastha. He crossed the Saraswati River and passed through the lands of Panchala and Matsya, finally reaching the grand city of Indraprastha.

The arrival of Krishna was met with great joy. King Yudhishthira, filled with happiness, came out of the city along with everyone to welcome him warmly.

As the story of the royal sacrifice in Indraprastha unfolded, Parikshit, a keen listener, recalled, "I remember how Bhimasena defeated Jarasandha and how Shishupala was killed by Krishna's Sudarshana. But I've heard that Krishna had many other enemies besides Jarasandha, Rukmi, and Shishupala. Wise sage, please tell me how he overcame them."

The sage nodded, ready to share another tale. "Let me tell you the story of Shalya, Parikshit," he began. "Shalya was a friend of Shishupala and possessed an aircraft named Sauva. Such aircraft were rare on Earth, and Shalya was quite proud of it. Since he was Shishupala's ally, Krishna was his adversary."

The sage continued, "Shalya came to King Rukmini's wedding as Shishupala's companion. When the Yadavas defeated Jarasandha, Shalya was among those who were vanquished. Standing before the allied kings, he vowed, 'I will avenge the insult of my friend Shishupala. I will wipe out the Yadava clan from this world. Everyone will witness my power now.'"

Determined, Shalya began a rigorous penance to Lord Shiva, consuming only a handful of rice each day. His devotion was unwavering, and after a year, Lord Shiva appeared before him.

"End your penance, Shalya," said Shiva, his voice resounding with divine power. "I am pleased with your hard penance."

"Oh Lord of Lords, Pashupatinath, you have answered my call and appeared before me. What great fortune is mine! A hundred million salutations at your feet," Shalya exclaimed with reverence.

"My child, ask for any boon you wish from me," Shiva offered.

Shalya, his eyes gleaming with ambition, replied, "Oh Lord, grant me an aircraft that is invincible to gods, demons, celestial beings, humans, serpents, and demons, and let it travel anywhere. Let this aircraft be terrifying to the Yadavas, creating fear among them."

"So be it," Shiva declared. Following Shiva's command, Maya Danava crafted an aircraft out of iron, naming it Sauva.

"What was special about this aircraft, Acharyadev?" Parikshit inquired, his curiosity piqued.

The sage smiled, "Parikshit, the aircraft was as large as a city. But it was surrounded by darkness. It could neither be seen nor caught. It could travel anywhere as per the pilot's command."

And so, the tales of Krishna's journey and the challenges he faced continued to unfold, each story revealing the depth of his wisdom and strength.

Chapter 4: The Battle of Dwarka

Rishi Shalya's hatred for the Vrishni clan burned like a relentless fire, fueled further by the news of Shishupala's demise at the hands of Krishna. It was this animosity that drove him to launch an attack on the magnificent city of Dwarka, using the formidable Sauva aircraft.

Shalya's forces surrounded Dwarka, and the assault began with a fury. The massive army attacked the city's gates, homes, and palaces, while the Sauva aircraft loomed ominously above, striking repeatedly. Chaos ensued, and fear gripped the hearts of Dwarka's citizens.

In the midst of this turmoil, Pradyumna, a beacon of hope, mounted his chariot. He called out to the frightened people, "Stay calm, my friends. We will protect our city." His words brought a measure of assurance, and soon, the great warriors of the Yadava clan—Uddhava, Kritavarma, Gada, Satyaki, and others—rallied with their armies beside him.

The battle that followed was fierce and unyielding. Pradyumna fought valiantly, single-handedly defeating hundreds of soldiers. Yet Shalya, in his magical flying chariot, posed a daunting challenge. The chariot appeared and vanished unpredictably, like a ghostly whirlwind, making it difficult for Pradyumna to strike.

Despite this, the Yadavas, skilled archers all, unleashed a relentless storm of arrows. Their determination shattered Shalya's army and his enchanted chariot, rendering even the mighty Shalya unconscious within it.

"Teacher," Parikshit interrupted, wide-eyed with wonder, "Shalya's forces couldn't harm the Yadava warriors, could they?"

The sage nodded, "True, King. The Yadavas stood firm, yet Shalya's persistent attacks troubled them. Still, they refused to abandon the battlefield."

Among Shalya's soldiers was his formidable minister, Duman. Spotting Pradyumna, he launched a volley of twenty-five arrows and then struck with his mace, confident he had injured the Yadava prince.

"Did Pradyumna really get hurt, Teacher?" Parikshit asked, concern lacing his voice.

"Yes, King," the sage replied. "The blow from Duman's mace struck Pradyumna's chest, rendering him unconscious."

But fate had not abandoned Pradyumna. His charioteer, the son of Krishna's own charioteer, Daruka, swiftly acted. Seeing Pradyumna's condition, he steered their chariot away from the battlefield to safety.

When Pradyumna awoke, his eyes blazed with anger. "Oh charioteer, you have done a great wrong," he rebuked. "Why did you take me away from the battlefield?"

"My lord," the charioteer explained calmly, "I only did my duty. You were unconscious, and I brought you to a quiet place for your well-being."

"No one from our family has ever fled the battlefield while alive," Pradyumna retorted, his pride wounded. "You have disgraced me. How can I face my father Krishna and uncle Balarama now?"

"My lord, please understand," the charioteer implored. "In times of crisis, a charioteer must protect the warrior. You were in danger, unconscious from the enemy's mace."

Pradyumna's anger subsided, replaced by determination. "Take me back to Duman," he commanded. "I will face him again."

With renewed resolve, Pradyumna donned his armor once more. As he returned to the battlefield, Duman was gaining the upper hand against the Yadava soldiers. Heroes like Gada and Satyaki fought fiercely, holding the line against Shalya's troops.

"Teacher," Parikshit asked, "where was Krishna during all this? Had he not returned from Indraprastha yet?"

The sage shook his head. "No, Parikshit. Krishna was still in Indraprastha. Though the Rajasuya sacrifice was complete and Shishupala had been slain, Krishna noticed ominous signs while there. With the blessings of the elders, sages, Kunti, and the Pandavas, he made his way back to Dwarka."

The battle raged on, the fate of Dwarka hanging in the balance.

Chapter 5: The Illusion of Shalya

As Krishna made his way back to Dwarka, a thought troubled him. "My brother Balarama and I went to Indraprastha together, leaving Dwarka unprotected. Surely, the Kshatriyas who supported Shishupala have attacked my Dwarka," he pondered. Though Krishna was all-knowing and sensed the attack on Dwarka, he wondered how he would handle it upon his arrival.

When King Krishna finally reached Dwarka, he found the Yadavas in grave danger. Without hesitation, he entrusted the city's defense to his elder brother, Balarama. As he surveyed the skies, he spotted Salya on his magical flying chariot. "Daruka," Krishna instructed his charioteer, "take my chariot to Salya right away. Salya will use illusions, but do not be afraid."

The flag on Krishna's chariot bore a symbol of a cow, a sight recognized by both the Yadava and Salya's soldiers. As Krishna approached, Salya hurled a powerful weapon at Daruka. But before it could reach its target, Krishna shattered it with his own weapon.

Parikshit, eyes wide with curiosity, asked, "What happened next, Teacher? How did Salya fight with the Lord?"

The sage continued with a nod, "At this moment, something amazing happened. Krishna was attacking Salya, and Salya was counterattacking. Suddenly, one of Salya's arrows hit Krishna's left arm, where he held his Saranga bow. The impact made Krishna drop the bow, and everyone gasped."

Then, with a sneer, Salya shouted at Krishna, "Foolish Krishna, you took my friend and brother Shishupala's wife right before my eyes and killed him unexpectedly in the assembly. You think you are unbeatable, don't you? Come, face me. Today, I will teach you defeat. You will fall by my hand. This is destiny. A true hero does not waste words. Don't you realize that death stands at your door? If you are a real hero, show your bravery, just as I am doing now."

Krishna, unperturbed, swiftly struck Salya in the ribs with his mace. Salya began to tremble and coughed up blood. A moment later, the mace returned to Krishna's hand, and Salya suddenly vanished from sight.

Parikshit leaned forward, "Where did Shalya go? Even the wise Krishna couldn't understand."

The sage explained, "Shortly after, a man approached Krishna, bowed, and said, 'A thousand greetings to you, Lord. Your mother, Devaki, sent me with a message. She says that just like a butcher ties up an animal, Shalya has taken your father from Dwarka.'"

"How is this possible?" Krishna wondered. "My brother Balarama, who is unbeatable by gods or demons, is always on guard. How could Shalya defeat him and take my father? Did Shalya really defeat Balarama and take Vasudeva away?"

"No, King. It was all an illusion," the man explained. "As soon as Krishna doubted the truth of the event, Shalya used his magic to create a man who looked like Vasudeva. He brought this illusion before Krishna and said, 'Fool, here is your father, the one who gave you life. I will take away his life right before your eyes. If you have the power, come and save him.'"

With these words, Shalya cut off the head of the fake Vasudeva with a sword and flew away in a flying chariot.

Parikshit gasped, "Did such a terrible thing really happen right in front of Krishna, and he did nothing?"

The sage nodded, "Krishna, wise and kind, was momentarily shocked and saddened, just like any ordinary person would be. But soon, he realized it was all a powerful illusion. By then, the messenger from Devaki, along with the fake body and head, had vanished into thin air."

"So, did Krishna decide to fight Shalya?" Parikshit asked, eager to know more.

"Yes, indeed," the sage confirmed. "Shalya didn't understand that it was impossible to deceive Krishna, who is all-knowing. Thinking Krishna was overwhelmed with grief, Shalya eagerly attacked him. But Krishna shot arrows that pierced Shalya's armor, bow, and crown, wounding him. Shalya thought he could escape in his flying chariot, but Krishna destroyed it with his mace, causing it to crash into the sea. Realizing this, Shalya jumped to the ground with his mace and charged at Krishna with great force."

Chapter 6: The Divine Confrontations

The air was thick with anticipation as young students sat cross-legged, eyes wide with wonder, listening to the tales of the wise Acharyadev. His voice, calm yet filled with the weight of ages, continued the saga of Krishna's legendary battles.

"So, what happened next, Acharyadev?" asked one of the eager students, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Acharyadev smiled gently, his eyes twinkling with the joy of storytelling. "Krishna was ready to confront Shalya. In his hand, he held the Sudarshan Chakra, which glowed brilliantly like the sun itself. With a swift and precise motion, Krishna used the chakra to sever Shalya's head, along with his crown and earrings." The students gasped, imagining the scene vividly.

"The moment Shalya fell," Acharyadev continued, "his soldiers cried out in despair, while above, the gods played their celestial drums and sang praises of Krishna."

"But Acharyadev," another student interrupted, "did Shishupala's allies grow fearful after Shalya's defeat? Did they retreat?"

The sage shook his head. "No, not yet. The battle was far from over. Hearing of the defeat of Shishupala, Shalya, and Paundrak, the foolish Dantavakra entered the battlefield alone, determined to honor his friendship with them. He was so powerful that the earth trembled beneath his feet as he charged at Krishna with his mace."

"Was he strong enough to fight Krishna on his own?" a curious voice piped up.

Acharyadev nodded, "Indeed, Dantavakra was formidable. He roared like a lion and struck Krishna on the head with his mace, much like a mahout tries to control a mighty elephant."

The students leaned forward, breathless. "Did Krishna get hurt?" one of them asked, eyes wide with concern.

"Krishna was unharmed," Acharyadev reassured them. "Calmly, he lifted his own mighty Kaumudi mace and struck Dantavakra hard on the chest. With a single, powerful blow, Dantavakra fell to the ground, coughing up blood, and died."

Silence filled the room as the students absorbed the gravity of the battle. Then, one of them asked, "What happened next, Acharyadev? Was there anyone else left to challenge Krishna?"

"Yes," the sage replied. "Dantavakra's brother, Viduratha, hearing of his brother's demise, came forth with a sword and shield, seeking revenge. But Krishna, wielding his Sudarshan Chakra once more, swiftly ended Viduratha's life by severing his head."

The students listened in awe as Acharyadev narrated how the heavens erupted in celebration. "Gods, yakshas, kinnaras, nagas, apsaras, and other celestial beings showered flowers from the sky upon Krishna. His divine play was endless, and though he appeared in human form, his actions were beyond human comprehension. Yet, in every situation, he emerged victorious."

"Tell us more about Krishna, wise sage," one of the students pleaded, captivated by the tales.

Acharyadev obliged, transitioning to a new chapter in the story. "Once, Balarama, Krishna's elder brother, heard that Duryodhana and the Kauravas were preparing for battle with the Pandavas. Balarama loved both sides dearly and chose not to take sides. To remain neutral, he embarked on a pilgrimage, leaving Dwarka."

"Where did he go first on his pilgrimage?" asked a student, eager to follow Balarama's journey.

"His first stop was Prabhas Kshetra," Acharyadev explained. "There, he bathed in the sacred waters and offered food to the Brahmins. With a few Brahmins as his companions, he traveled along the Saraswati River, visiting the banks of the Ganga and Yamuna, eventually arriving at Naimisharanya."

"Who was there in Naimisharanya?" another student inquired.

"Many great sages had gathered there," Acharyadev recounted. "They rose to welcome Balarama and offered him their respects. However, Balarama noticed Romaharshana, a disciple of Vyasa, seated on a high seat, acting as a speaker. Despite Balarama's arrival, Romaharshana did not greet him or show any sign of respect."

The students sensed the tension in the story. "Was Balarama upset by this?" one of them asked.

"Very much so," the sage replied. "Balarama was displeased by Romaharshana's arrogance. He declared, 'This Romaharshana, despite his lower birth, sits on a high seat, disrespecting the best of the Brahmins and those like me who uphold righteousness. Such arrogance deserves immediate punishment.'"

Acharyadev paused, his voice somber. "Though Balarama had vowed not to harm anyone during his pilgrimage, he was so angered by Romaharshana's actions that he struck him with a simple blade of grass in his hand. This blow caused Romaharshana's death."

The students were shocked, their eyes wide with disbelief. "What happened then, Acharyadev?" one of them asked, anxious to hear how the story would unfold.

"The sages present were distraught," Acharyadev said. "They cried out to Balarama, 'Lord, what have you done? This is a great wrongdoing. We had placed Romaharshana on the seat of a Brahmin and granted him a long life because he recited ancient stories and explained their meanings to us. Without knowing, you have committed a sin equal to killing a Brahmin.'"

As the tale ended, the room was filled with a contemplative silence, the students reflecting on the complexities of divine justice and human actions.

Chapter 7: Balarama's Atonement

The room was silent, the air heavy with the gravity of the tale just told. The students sat in their neat rows, their young minds grappling with the weight of divine justice and human actions. Acharyadev's voice had woven a story of great consequence, and now it was Balarama's turn to respond to the sages' plea.

Balarama, with his serene yet powerful presence, nodded solemnly. "We know you have come as an avatar to bring purity to everyone," one of the sages began, his voice respectful but firm. "But we humbly request that if you willingly atone for this act, it will serve as a lesson for others."

Balarama's eyes softened with understanding. "Alright, as you wish," he agreed, his voice resonating with the promise of redemption. "I will certainly atone for this act to teach others. Please arrange the highest form of atonement according to your guidance."

The sage continued, "O Balarama, make sure that your strength and honor remain intact, and our words come true. According to the Vedas, the soul is reborn as a son. Therefore, Romaharshana's son will recite the ancient stories to you. I grant him a long life, strength, and power. Is there anything else I can do for you? Tell me, wise sages."

Another sage stepped forward, his face etched with concern. "Lord, the demon Illola's son, Ballala, has become very dangerous. He disrupts our storytelling sessions by defiling them."

Balarama's brow furrowed. "Defiling them? How does he do that?"

The sage sighed, the memory of their struggles evident in his voice. "He throws blood, filth, alcohol, meat, and other things at us from various places. Please save us from this wicked being. That would be a great help to us. After that, you should continue your pilgrimage and bathe in holy places for 12 months across India. This will purify you."

Balarama nodded, determination flashing in his eyes. "As you said, I will do just that, wise sage."

The day came when the sages gathered for their studies, and as if on cue, a fierce storm arose. Dust swirled around them, and amidst the chaos, the demon Ballala appeared, his presence as formidable as his reputation. He wielded a trident, his monstrous frame casting a long shadow over the assembly.

"Teacher, what did that terrifying demon look like?" one curious student asked, wide-eyed with anticipation.

Acharyadev described the scene vividly. "His huge body was like a mountain of coal, with long, wild hair on his head, and his entire face covered in a thick beard. His large, round eyes seemed to be constantly burning with fire."

The students held their breath as Acharyadev continued. "Balarama faced the demon alone. With his mighty plow, he pulled the demon down from the sky. Then, in great anger, he struck the demon's head with his mace. The demon's head shattered from the blow, and blood began to flow. Finally, the demon fell to the ground and died."

The room erupted in quiet awe as Acharyadev concluded, "The sages were pleased with Balarama. They praised and honored him, gifting him with divine weapons and ornaments and placing a beautiful garland around his neck."

The students listened, captivated by the tale of righteousness and valor. "What a wonderful glory of God!" Acharyadev exclaimed. "He teaches us time and again that protecting righteousness in times of crisis is a person's main duty, regardless of one's own image."

The narrative took a gentle turn as Acharyadev hinted at the next tale. "Who is the sage Sudama? He is the dear friend of child Gopala and is now coming before the king of Dwaraka. I will tell you that story next."

As the students leaned in, eager for more, Acharyadev promised, "We'll return with the story in the next episode."

The lesson ended, leaving the students with a sense of wonder and anticipation for the stories yet to come.