What is bakasuran?

Bakasura was a fearsome rakshasa (demon) featured prominently in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. He terrorized the people of Ekachakra, a village where the Pandavas were living in exile.

  • Terror and Tribute: Bakasura demanded a daily tribute of food, including rice, meat, and a human being, to be delivered to his cave. The villagers were forced to take turns providing this gruesome offering.

  • Bhima's Intervention: When the turn came to the family hosting the Pandavas, Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, convinced Bhima, known for his immense strength, to take the tribute to Bakasura instead.

  • The Battle: Bhima, known for his love of food, ate the entire offering himself, enraging Bakasura. A fierce battle ensued between the two. Bhima ultimately overpowered and killed Bakasura, freeing the villagers from his tyranny.

  • Significance: The story of Bakasura's defeat by Bhima is a classic tale of good triumphing over evil. It highlights Bhima's strength and courage and the Pandavas' role as protectors of the innocent. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice.