In the grand tapestry of ancient Indian scriptures, particularly the Bhagavata Purana (Bhagwat Mahapuran), the story of Dwivida and Balram is a fascinating episode. Dwivida was a powerful ape (Vanara) and a follower of Sugriva, the Vanara king. He played a notable role in the events surrounding Lord Rama’s quest to rescue Sita. However, Dwivida’s story took a darker turn in the Dvapara Yuga, during the times of Lord Krishna and his elder brother, Balram.
After the events of the Ramayana, Dwivida initially led a life of valor and honor. But over time, influenced by resentment and revenge, especially against Lord Krishna and his kin for the slaying of his friend Narakasura, Dwivida’s heart grew darker. He began to indulge in mischief and destruction, causing havoc in the lands.
Dwivida’s actions became increasingly malevolent. He uprooted trees, diverted rivers, and terrorized villages. His strength and might were unparalleled, and he became a significant threat to the harmony of the land. Dwivida’s primary objective was to disrupt the reign of the Yadavas, the clan to which Krishna and Balram belonged.
One day, Dwivida arrived near the city of Dwaraka, the stronghold of the Yadavas. There, he began his acts of vandalism, causing widespread destruction. Balram, known for his immense physical strength and unwavering sense of duty, decided to confront Dwivida.
Balram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna, was an incarnation of Sheshnag, the divine serpent. He wielded a plough (hal) as his weapon and was known for his incredible strength and valor. When Balram learned of Dwivida’s havoc near Dwaraka, he set out to stop him.
The confrontation between Balram and Dwivida was fierce. The ape, towering and powerful, challenged Balram with his immense strength. Dwivida uprooted trees and hurled boulders at Balram. However, Balram, with his calm demeanor and unmatched prowess, dodged the attacks and countered with his plough and mace.
As the battle raged, it became clear that Dwivida’s strength, fueled by anger and revenge, was no match for Balram’s divine power and strategic combat skills. Balram’s blows began to weaken Dwivida. With a mighty swing of his plough, Balram struck Dwivida down, bringing an end to his rampage.
The defeat of Dwivida by Balram restored peace in the region. It served
as a reminder of the consequences of allowing anger and revenge to dominate one’s actions. The people of Dwaraka rejoiced at the victory, praising Balram for his strength and righteousness.
This tale from the Bhagavata Purana highlights the eternal struggle between good and evil, showcasing how even the mightiest beings can fall prey to darkness if they let negative emotions govern their hearts. It also emphasizes the virtues of strength tempered with wisdom and the importance of using one’s power for the protection and betterment of others.
Balram’s victory over Dwivida was not just a physical triumph but a moral one, reinforcing the dharma that upholds righteousness and justice. The story of Dwivida and Balram, as chronicled in the Bhagavata Purana, remains a powerful narrative about the importance of virtue, the dangers of vengeance, and the enduring power of good over evil.