Apasmāra

Long ago, there was a king named Uparichara , also known as Vasu. He was a very valorous and virtues king. He was fond of hunting for sport. He belonged to the Paurava dynasty and he was also a friend of Indra . By his blessing, Vasu had conquered the kingdom of Chedi . He was also in the habit of visiting Indra in heaven, riding his crystal chariot in the sky. (Since he wandered in high places, he got the name of Uparichara). After a while, he decided to gave up his royal way of living, and gave up the use of weapons. He retreated to a secluded forest and indulged in severe penances and austerities. When the Devas beheld this, they were worried. Their king Indra became afraid that Uparichara was performing this penance to obtain his post. So the Devas led by Indra approached the king, and by soft speeches, succeeded in turning his heart away from ascetism. They promised him eternal friendship and great bliss in heaven, if only he would give up his present way of life. According ...