The second legend of the Perki community’s ancient history is taken from the book Perika Samachara Sankalanamu, under the title “Perika Kula Charitra”. The compiler of this book mentions that the information was collected from the text Malhara Vijayam.
The legend is as follows:
One day, Ruchika (he belonged to the Bhrigu lineage—Bhrigu Maharshi’s son was Chyavana, Chyavana’s son was Apnavana, and Apnavana’s son was Ruchika, also known as Aurva. Thereafter came Ruchika’s son Jamadagni, and Jamadagni’s son was Parashurama. Such is the genealogy of this lineage).
Ruchika once visited King Gadhi, the son of Kushika, who was the ruler of Kanyakubja (Kanauj). Since Ruchika was a sage, the king welcomed him with due respect, honored him, and insisted that he stay there for some days as a guest. Accepting the king’s request, Ruchika decided to remain there for a while.
At that time, the king appointed his daughter Satyavati to serve the sage. The sage was impressed by her beauty, her humility, and her service. Moved by this, he expressed to the king his desire to marry her.
Hearing this, King Gadhi became angry. He found the sage’s wish strange and surprising, but at the same time he felt helpless and fearful. He wondered: “Is it proper for a sage, who lives a forest-dwelling life sustained by roots and fruits, to desire the hand of a royal princess?”
Seeing such a wish in a sage who had renounced all worldly pleasures for penance astonished the king. But he also feared: “If I do not fulfill the desire of this sage, who lives in my shelter, will he curse me?”
Knowing well the power of sages’ wrath and curses, King Gadhi…
Without letting his true feelings show on his face, King Gadhi kept a neutral expression and said to Ruchika:
“O Sage, it is indeed my daughter’s great fortune that a virtuous man like you should become her husband. For me too, it would be a blessing to gain such a learned scholar as a son-in-law! Yet, O Maharshi, there is one condition I have always placed for my daughter’s marriage. That is why I was hesitant, unsure of what to do.”
The sage replied: “King, what is this condition? Speak freely.”
The king said: “Whosoever gives my daughter one thousand horses with blue ears, to him alone shall I give her hand in marriage. My mind wavers at asking this of you. After all, it is you who have sought her hand—how can I ask you to meet such a condition?”
Then the sage said: “This is no fault of yours, O King. I am willing to fulfill this condition.”
Saying so, the sage went to the banks of the Ganga River and performed austerities to Varuna. Pleased with his penance, Varuna granted him a boon. The sage then returned to King Gadhi and offered him one thousand blue-eared horses.
The king was astonished at this wondrous feat of the sage. In great delight, he solemnized the marriage of his daughter with Ruchika in grand style.
The sage brought his wife back to his hermitage and entered the life of a householder (gṛhasthāśrama). Satyavati immersed herself happily in her daily life, finding joy in fulfilling her husband’s wishes and serving him with devotion.
One day, King Gadhi and his queen came to the hermitage to see how their daughter and son-in-law were faring. The sage and his wife welcomed them warmly. Seeing his daughter’s married life, King Gadhi and his wife were filled with joy.
There was a conversation between mother and daughter. The queen said: “My child, we have no son. This has caused your father deep sorrow. At the very least, we wish that the flame of our lineage be carried forward. It is our desire that a son be born to you, so that our dynasty may continue.”
Even Satyavati, who had surrendered herself completely to her husband and was wholly devoted to serving him, felt, with the natural emotion of a woman that her husband should…
She wished that her husband should become the father of her child. Ruchika understood this desire through his divine insight. He said to Satyavati:
“Satyavati, you will soon become a mother. You have given me every satisfaction, worshipped me, and surrendered yourself completely to me. It is my duty, therefore, to grant you fulfillment as well. Ask of me whatever you desire.”
Satyavati replied:
“Master, what greater fortune could I have than serving you? Your satisfaction and happiness are my joy. Your command is my highest duty. Yet, O Lord, I am concerned for my parents. They are deeply grieved because they have no son to continue their lineage. By your grace, I beg you to bless them with a son.”
Ruchika granted her wish, saying: “So be it.”
The next day, through the power of his penance, Ruchika created two sacred offerings (charu). One was radiant with the brilliance of Brahminhood, and the other glowed with the might of an invincible Kshatriya.
He showed the two offerings, identical in appearance, to his wife and instructed her:
“While in your fertile period, you should embrace a fig tree (umar tree), and your mother should embrace a peepal tree. Then you must bathe in the charu that shines with the radiance of Brahminhood, while your mother must bathe in the charu that glows with the invincible power of a Kshatriya. In this way, your impurities and flaws will be removed, and you will bear a Brahmin child, while your mother will bear an unconquerable Kshatriya child.”
Having given these instructions, the sage departed for the river to bathe.
Satyavati narrated all this to her parents. Hearing of the sage’s divine power, King Gadhi and his queen were overjoyed. Their joy overflowed, and seeing it, Satyavati too felt supreme happiness.
At that very time, both Satyavati and her mother were in their fertile periods, and in their overwhelming joy, they became careless. By mistake, the daughter embraced the peepal tree, while the mother embraced the fig tree. Likewise, they exchanged the two charus and bathed incorrectly.
Through his divine knowledge, the sage perceived their mistake. Turning to his wife…
Calling his wife to him, Ruchika said: “You have made a mistake in exchanging the trees and the charus (sacred offerings). Therefore, the children born from you and your mother will also be exchanged. Now, you will bear a Kshatriya son, and your mother will bear a Brahmin son.”
Hearing this, Satyavati was distraught. Falling at her husband’s feet, she pleaded:
“Master, please forgive this mistake. Do not give me a son who is a Kshatriya.” Saying this, she wept bitterly.
Ruchika replied: “Nothing happens without cause and effect. Who can truly know the will of destiny? Yet, I will try. I will use the power of my penance so that the Kshatriya son destined for you will instead be born to your mother.”
Encouraged by his reassuring words, Satyavati regained her composure.
Some days later, Satyavati gave birth to a son, who was named Jamadagni. Satyavati’s mother too bore a son—he became known as Vishwamitra.
Jamadagni studied all the Puranas, mastered the Vedas and scriptures in depth, and became highly skilled in the knowledge of weapons and warfare. Vishwamitra, at one time, was defeated in a debate with the sage Vashishta. Angered, Vishwamitra undertook intense austerities with firm resolve, and through his penance, he attained the title of Brahmarshi.
Jamadagni married Renuka (Renuka was the daughter of Siddhabhupala, the primordial ancestor of the Perikas). In the hermitage, Renuka served Jamadagni with devotion and piety in her married life.
By the grace of Jamadagni, she bore five sons: Rumanvant, Sushena, Vasu, Vishwavasu, and Parashurama. Among these, Parashurama was of divine essence (devansh) and was also known as Bhargava. (The birth of Parashurama was itself destined for a divine mission.)
These five sons grew up. One day, Renuka went to fetch water from the river. At that time, a Gandharva king named Chitraratha, along with his celestial queen, was engaged in playful water-sports. Renuka too wished to witness this sight. Seeing their joy, she felt inner delight.
But because of watching this scene, her chastity (patibrata dharma) was considered tainted. The pot in her hand slipped and shattered. Previously, whenever her pot broke, she was able to rejoin the pieces with her spiritual power and carry water in the same pot. But this time…
But on this day, something unusual happened. As always, Renuka tried to rejoin the broken pieces of the pot with her spiritual power, but this time the pot would not form again—the fragments refused to unite, and the vessel could not be restored. At that moment, she realized the nature of her fault.
Thinking that the only way to atone for her failing was to end her life, she resolved to throw herself into the river. Yet, reconsidering, she thought it better to return to her husband, confess what had happened, and await his command. Giving up the thought of suicide, she returned to the hermitage empty-handed.
When Jamadagni saw his wife return without a pot in her hands, he noticed her face—distressed, weakened, drained of her spiritual radiance, and full of shame. Through his divine insight, he understood what had transpired. Addressing his wife, who stood before him with folded hands, like an accused awaiting judgment, he declared:
“For this lapse, the penalty is beheading! You must be ready to undergo this punishment!” Saying this, he ordered his eldest son to behead her.
Hearing her husband’s command, Renuka bowed her head to the ground and sat humbly, ready to accept the punishment given to her.
But when Rumanvant, the eldest son, saw his mother in this state, his heart was torn. He could not bring himself to kill his own mother. Being well-versed in the Vedas, he knew that matricide was the gravest of sins. Moreover, the scriptures taught that the mother is the first form, while the father is the later form of existence. Knowing this, he firmly refused to carry out his father’s command.
In the same way, the second, third, and fourth sons also refused to behead their mother, just as Rumanvant had.
Enraged by their disobedience, Jamadagni cursed them. Finally, he summoned his fifth son, Parashurama, and gave him the same command.
Parashurama reflected: “If I refuse, I too will be cursed like my brothers. But if I obey, by my father’s blessing, I may be able to restore my mother to life and free my brothers from the curse. Moreover, as the saying goes—‘The father’s soul lives within the son.’ Thus, whatever deed is done by the son is as if done by the father himself. Therefore, in order to ultimately redeem my mother, I must obey this command.”
As these thoughts went through his mind, Jamadagni…
Jamadagni commanded Parashurama to behead his mother. Without delay, the order was carried out—Renuka’s head fell at Jamadagni’s feet, and Parashurama bowed before his father in full prostration.
“Bravo, my son, bravo!” said Jamadagni. “I am blessed, truly blessed, by your devotion to your father. I am pleased with your self-control. Ask me for whatever boon you desire.”
Parashurama, who had been waiting for this moment, immediately said: “Grant life again to my mother, and release my brothers from the curse you pronounced upon them.”
At once, Jamadagni sprinkled sacred water, charged with mantras, upon Renuka and restored her to life. He also freed his sons from the curse he had placed on them.
Parashurama then asked his father how he might atone for the sin of matricide. Jamadagni replied: “If you perform penance on Pushpagiri for six months, this sin will be washed away.”
So Parashurama, bidding farewell to his family, set out for Pushpagiri to undertake his austerities.
One day, Kartavirya Arjuna, while on a tour with his family and large retinue, grew weary from excessive exertion. For rest, he arrived at Jamadagni’s hermitage.
Seeing the emperor approaching his hermitage, Jamadagni came forward to welcome him. He said:
“O King, you look tired. From your face, it seems you are also hungry. Please go to the river to bathe and refresh yourself, while I arrange for your meal.”
The king replied: “Maharshi, I am not alone. I have come with my family and entire retinue. To arrange food for so many would be a tremendous burden. It is not proper for a sage to undertake such labor. After a little rest, I shall continue my journey with my retinue.”
But Jamadagni said: “Our ancestors have taught us ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’—the guest is God. Efforts made for guests are no labor at all. Serving guests is our foremost duty. Without this, all the knowledge and wisdom we have attained has no meaning. Besides, you have arrived exactly at mealtime. Therefore, I request you to honor us by accepting our hospitality, along with your family.”
Jamadagni then said: “Please go to the nearby river, bathe and refresh yourself. By the time you return, we will have your meal prepared.”
Respecting the sage’s insistence, the king went to the river with his family to bathe. When they returned, they were astonished to see a grand meal already prepared, consisting of a variety of delicacies (panchapakvan).
The king, his family, and all his soldiers sat down to eat. They were served sumptuous food, and everyone marveled at the wide variety of delicious dishes, each one better than the last. What was even more surprising was how such a large quantity of food had been prepared in so little time. Moreover, however many times a dish was asked for, it was served in abundance, without end. This aroused great curiosity among all. They wondered how the sage had managed to arrange such a feast.
After the meal, as the king lay down to rest, the same thought struck him: “Even the mightiest cannot achieve this. How could this sage provide, in the blink of an eye, whatever food or items were desired, in such abundance, satisfying everyone fully? What is the secret behind this?”
To uncover the mystery, he sent one of his skilled spies.
The spy reported back to the king: “In the sage’s hermitage there is a cow named Kamadhenu. It is this Kamadhenu that grants him whatever he wishes. She possesses the divine power to provide anything and everything.”
The king then thought: “If such a cow were with me, it would serve the welfare of my people. Whatever they need could be fulfilled through her, and all difficulties could be removed. It is not right for such a miraculous cow to remain only with the sage—it ought to be with the king.”
He further thought: “Even if Jamadagni desires something, I can fulfill his wishes. Just as I have received many boons through my devotion to Dattatreya, this Kamadhenu should also be with me.”
Thus, the king conveyed his wish to the sage through his minister. But Jamadagni refused to give Kamadhenu to the king.
When the minister returned and reported this to the king, the king grew angry.
Then the king himself went to the sage and demanded Kamadhenu. But the sage firmly refused.
The king flared up and said:“This empire belongs to me. You also live within this kingdom. Everything here belongs to the king. Whatever the subjects possess is the king’s as well. It is the king’s duty to provide for the needs of his people. We try to fulfill even your needs. For the welfare of the people, this divine cow should be used. Therefore, you must present to me this Kamadhenu, which I desire. And in return, you may ask for whatever you want.
Kings are givers, not takers.”
Jamadagni replied:“Kamadhenu is not a mere object, nor is she wealth. She is the very power of my spiritual strength. To covet her is against your dharma.”
The king responded:“Sage, this is not for my selfish gain. I did not ask for Kamadhenu for my own sake. It is for the welfare of all people. This is not for the benefit of one alone. Therefore, it is proper that you give her to me. In fact, you must give her. This is my royal command.”
But Jamadagni, unwavering, again refused to yield Kamadhenu.
This led to a heated quarrel between them. Kartavirya Arjuna’s patience broke. He decided to teach the sage a lesson for disobeying a king’s command. He said:“When conciliation, gifts, or persuasion fail, then punishment must be used to achieve the goal.”
Even after this warning, Jamadagni refused to part with Kamadhenu.
The sage’s reply enraged the king. He commanded his soldiers to seize Kamadhenu. But as soon as the soldiers approached her, from her udders emerged warriors, who fell upon the king’s soldiers and struck them down. Jamadagni too prepared himself for battle.
Seeing this, the king lost all restraint. He drew his sword from his waist and with a single stroke, beheaded Jamadagni. Taking Kamadhenu along with his army, he departed from there.
Renuka fell upon her husband’s corpse, wailing in grief. At that moment, Sage Bhrigu arrived. By his inner vision, he perceived what had transpired and then…
Bhrigu revived Jamadagni. When this news reached Parashurama, he returned to the hermitage. Seeing his father alive, he said:
“Father! You are a master of the science of weapons, a mighty hero, so powerful that even the Sun God himself would tremble before you. You are a great ascetic. How could it be that a mere king was able to slay you? This is astonishing!”
Jamadagni only smiled in response.With his father’s permission to bring back the cow, Parashurama set out for Mahishmati city.
When he arrived, the king received him with the usual courtesies. But Parashurama said:
“I have not come here to accept your welcome. I have come to reclaim Kamadhenu. Return our divine cow to us.”
The king replied:“She cannot be returned. She is spoils of war, obtained in battle.”
At once, Parashurama advanced to fight. Cutting down the soldiers that stood before him, he pressed on towards Kamadhenu. Then Kartavirya Arjuna himself confronted him. A fierce battle ensued between Parashurama and Kartavirya.
Parashurama, with his unmatched power, severed the thousand arms of the king and finally beheaded him.
Witnessing this dreadful sight, Kartavirya’s sons were filled with terror and fled in all directions. Parashurama brought Kamadhenu safely back to the hermitage and narrated all that had happened to Jamadagni.
Jamadagni said:“My son, our elders have said, ‘Neither Vishnu nor the ruler of the earth is beyond reproach.’ You have slain a king born in so great and divine a lineage. To atone for the sin incurred by killing such a monarch, you must undertake a year-long pilgrimage to the holy places and have darshan of the gods.”
Thus, taking leave of everyone, Parashurama set out on his pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the fleeing sons of Kartavirya, burning with vengeance, learned that Parashurama had departed. Then, Kartavirya’s eldest son Shurana, along with his brothers, attacked Jamadagni’s hermitage and killed the sage.
When this news reached Parashurama, he immediately returned to the hermitage. There, he saw his mother sitting beside his father’s corpse, striking her own chest with her hands twenty-one times and wailing in grief.
Beholding this heartbreaking sight, Parashurama made a terrible vow…
Parashurama took a terrible vow: “I will attack the Kshatriyas twenty-one times and utterly destroy their lineage. With streams of their blood, I will offer oblations to my forefathers.”
After completing his father’s funeral rites, he set out to fulfill his vow. Without distinction of man, child, young, or old, he killed every Kshatriya he encountered, pressing forward relentlessly.
During this same period, King Siddhabhupala of Bhogavatipura had become renowned as a heroic ruler devoted to the welfare of his people. His queen Taridevi and daughter Renuka were also honored and respected by all. Ancient chronicles of the Kṛta Yuga speak of this royal lineage as a tradition of benevolent rulers. When news of Parashurama’s vow to annihilate the Kshatriyas reached Siddhabhupala through the sage Narada, the king grew anxious. He consulted his guru, Somnath.
Guru Somnath explained: “Parashurama is considered a divine incarnation (an emanation of the gods). To counter divine power, one too must invoke divine strength. Lord Shankar, known as Sadashiva, is the protector of devotees. With his blessings alone will you succeed.” Thus enlightened, Guru Somnath initiated Siddhabhupala into the five-syllabled mantra (Panchakshari mantra). Siddhabhupala then consecrated images of Parvati and Lord Shiva, known as Madiladevi and Malhar Ba, and worshipped them with devotion and faith. After receiving initiation, he began rigorous penance. Moved by Siddhabhupala’s intense austerities, Lord Shiva, together with Parvati, manifested before him and granted him darshan.
Lord Shiva said to the king:“O King, we are pleased with your devotion and penance. Ask for whatever boon you desire.”
At this, the king, with deep reverence, worshipped Shiva and Parvati and…
“Siddhabhupala and Taridevi worshipping their chosen deity.”
King Siddhabhupala and Queen Taridevi performed their worship with deep devotion and then asked for this boon:
“May you yourself be born as our son, O Lord, to humble the pride of Parashurama and to redeem our Kshatriya lineage.”
Lord Shiva replied:“O King, Parashurama is a divine incarnation for a specific purpose, a manifestation of Vishnu himself. I will surely fulfill your wish, but for that, some time must pass. Until then, you and your family should adopt a different guise, take up a trading occupation, and sustain yourselves.”
Saying this, Shiva gave the king seeds of jute (janapanara) and said:“In these seeds lies the power of revival. I give them to you as inexhaustible. From them you shall produce jute, and from jute you shall weave gunny sacks (perika), which will play a vital role in your livelihood. I also bestow upon you the bull, my vehicle Nandi, born of the divine essence of Ishvara. Load your gunny sacks upon this bull and travel far and wide, trading in grains and wealth. Take with you your fellow Kshatriya brethren, who now live in fear of their lives. Embrace them, gather their strength into your fold.
At the destined time, I myself will be born in the womb of your queen Taridevi, and Goddess Parvati will be born into another Kshatriya family. Then, together, we shall bring liberation from the dreadful vow of Parashurama.”
Having spoken thus, Shiva disappeared. By Shiva’s grace, Siddhabhupala received the jute seeds and from them produced gunny sacks. In time, he became lord over countless bulls in that region. Along with his priests and attendants, he settled in the caves of Mount Merugiri.
From then on, Siddhabhupala became known as Siddha Shetty, declaring: “I am Siddha Shetty, of the Perika vocation.”
With gunny sacks (perika) loaded with jewels, precious ornaments, and various goods, he began to travel across regions, trading his wares. Along the way, he gathered other Kshatriyas, who were hiding in fear of death, and united them under his fold…
He (Siddhabhupala) settled all of them in the caves of Merugiri, where a secret city was established. There, he consecrated idols of Madila (Parvati) and Malhara (Shiva) and, together with his queen, worshipped and revered them.
In time, Sadashiva himself was born in the womb of Siddhabhupala’s queen, Taridevi. The child was named Haramallu (Malhar), who later became renowned as Veeramallu. After him, four more sons were born—Anamallu, Chinamallu, Anagiri Mallu, and Siddhamallu, as well as a daughter named Chandravati.
Meanwhile, in the land of Kukura, King Priyamvada, longing for progeny, performed penance to Mahagauri, a form of the Mother Goddess Jagadambika. Pleased with his austerities, Mahagauri appeared before him and asked him to request a boon.
The king prayed:“O Mother, O Jagadamba! To protect us Kshatriyas from the wrath of Parashurama, I ask that you be born as my daughter.”
Already ordained by Shiva to take birth, the Goddess replied:
“So be it. Soon I will be born as your daughter. I shall liberate your Kshatriya lineage from the terror of Parashurama’s vow and protect you. Do not worry any longer.”
Having said this, the Goddess disappeared. A few days later, Parvati was born as the daughter of King Priyamvada and his queen Sugunadevi of Kukura country. She was named Gauri.
Soon after this event, Parashurama attacked the land of Kukura. His army crushed all resistance, and he entered the royal palace. In terror for his life, King Priyamvada fled. His queen Sugunadevi too escaped, but in their panic they forgot their infant daughter, Gauri, who was left behind.
As Parashurama entered the inner chambers, he glanced around. There he saw a maidservant holding the baby Gauri in her arms. Falling at the feet of Parashurama, who stood before her with his axe stained in blood and a fierce expression upon his face, the maidservant cried out:
“O Lord! Protect her! This innocent child knows no sin…”
The maid pleaded:“O Lord, because of this innocent little girl I lingered here. Please grant life to both this young Gauri and to me as well.”
Parashurama said:“Rise, stand up.”Trembling, the maid stood. Parashurama looked at the child Gauri and asked:“Whose daughter is she?”
As he gazed upon her wondrous beauty, Parashurama was captivated. When he saw her innocent smile, he extended his hands to take her. The maid, however, grew fearful. Perceiving her fear, Parashurama reassured her:“Do not be afraid. I will not harm this girl. Give me this Veeragauri, gained during my conquest, and then you may go.”
Fearfully, the maid handed over Gauri to Parashurama and departed.
Parashurama brought Gauri to Mahuripura. Upon arriving, he said to his mother Renuka:
“Mother, look at this beautiful girl! She is a prize of my conquest, a symbol of my victory. Keep her as my foster daughter, Veeragauri, and care for her.”
Thus entrusting Gauri to his mother, Parashurama departed again on his campaign of conquest.
Meanwhile, Siddhabhupala’s four sons and daughter had now come of age. His sons had become adept in arms, weapons, and the martial arts. The sage and great yogi Charaka, master of Ayurveda, was given Chandravati’s hand in marriage.
At this same time, Gauri, who had been living in Renuka’s household, had also grown up. One day, the ever-wandering sage Narada visited Mahur (Mahuripura). Renuka Devi welcomed him with due honor. Pointing to the young maiden Gauri, who was moving about near her, she said to Narada:
“This is Veeragauri, the symbol of Parashurama’s conquest, whom I am raising. She has grown into a young woman. Please tell me, where might I find a worthy groom for her?”
Hearing this, Veeragauri blushed and withdrew into the house. Renuka continued:
“Though she is not my daughter by birth, in caring for her I have become bound to her by love. My heart longs only for her marriage to a worthy man—that will bring me true fulfillment. O Narada, traveler of the three worlds, suggest a suitable match for her.”
Narada replied with delight:
“Ah! Why not? Her destined groom is already born. There will never be another…”
“…never will another be born,” said Narada, pausing for a moment. Then he added:
“Yes, there is one. The suitable groom for her is your own nephew—your sister’s son. He is none other than Malahari (Veeramallu), the son of King Siddhabhupala of Bhogavati. If you agree, I shall make efforts to arrange this marriage.”
“What are you saying, Narada? My nephew?” exclaimed Renuka in astonishment. “In fear of Parashurama, all my kinsmen—my brothers—have vanished, living in exile. Where are they now, Narada? How are they? How many children do they have? What is their condition?”
With great wonder and curiosity, Renuka asked these questions. Narada then narrated to her the entire account of Siddhabhupala and his family. Hearing this, Renuka was overjoyed.
“How could I possibly refuse such a bond? For women, their maternal family is always beloved. Therefore, Narada, you must take the role of guide for these two families and unite them.”
Even as she spoke these words, the thought of Parashurama’s wrath suddenly came to her mind. Narada, perceiving this, said:
“Do not worry. The Lord is protector of all. I will certainly make every effort to arrange this alliance. Now give me your blessing to depart.”
Saying “Narayana, Narayana”, Narada set out for the caves of Merugiri.
When the sage arrived, Siddhabhupala came forward to welcome him and, leading him inside, seated him with due honor. He then called his sons—including Haramallu (Veeramallu)—and introduced them to Narada, instructing them to bow at the sage’s feet.
As Haramallu touched Narada’s feet, Narada blessed him with the words: “May your marriage be soon.”
Hearing this, Siddhabhupala was astonished and said: “You are omniscient, sage, knower of the future. But can it truly be that my Haramallu will marry so soon? We, who have renounced royal pleasures, who live in fear of Parashurama, who have changed our gotra and disguised ourselves, adopting the Perika vocation of traders, wandering from village to village with no certainty of what the next moment will bring—what fortune could ever befall such unfortunate ones as we?
Where would a bride be found for my son, to redeem our lineage?”
Thus, deep in thought, Siddhabhupala spoke to Narada.
Hearing his words, Narada smiled and said:
“O King, you…”
“What are you saying? Hardships never last forever. Your wishes, guided by truth and justice, will soon be fulfilled. Your son Haramallu is himself a portion of the Divine. Through these trials, he shall prevail. Have you forgotten that Lord Sadashiva, full of supreme compassion, stands as your protector?
A worthy bride for Haramallu already awaits—the beautiful maiden Gauri, residing at Mahuripura (Mahur) in the house of Parashurama. She is the very maiden destined to redeem your lineage.”
Hearing this, Haramallu laughed suddenly and said: “Master, what do you say? The redeemer of our lineage—she is in Parashurama’s house? How can she ever come into ours? To Parashurama, every Kshatriya is an enemy! If he learns of this, it will bring war between him and us. A marriage bond would be impossible! Who could remove this obstacle and help unite us?”
At this, Siddhamallu spoke. But Haramallu, fired with passion, declared:
“Father, is it not shameful that Kshatriyas should fear Brahmins? You yourself awakened our valor and taught us the path of Kshatra Dharma. Then why should we now bow before Parashurama’s arrogance? If it is your command, I shall marry her. And if any great warrior stands in my way, I shall destroy him!”
Siddhabhupala, astonished at his son’s bold words, was inwardly pleased at his courage. He said:
“My son! By the will of the Lord we dwell hidden in these mountain caves. My fear arises only from a father’s affection. But now, I will not stand against your desire. To prove your valor and fulfill your wish, go forward—but only after taking your mother’s blessings.”
Narada, even as he encouraged him, also reminded him: “Haramalla! Be cautious! Remember, Parashurama is an incarnation of Vishnu. Defeating him is no simple task. The greatest warriors have fallen before his onslaught.”
Haramallu replied boldly: “Master! Am I not also a part of Rudra, the wielder of the trident? Are not your blessings the strongest pledge of victory? Let us see what fate unfolds!”
Saying this, Haramallu bowed, took their blessings, and set out for home.
Upon reaching home, he approached his mother…
Haramallu met Taridevi and narrated in detail the discussion Narada had regarding his marriage, also expressing his own thoughts.
The mother replied: “My son, I shall not stand in the way of your resolve. But remember—Parashurama is a portion of Vishnu, and not only that, he is also the beloved disciple of Lord Sadashiva. Moreover, he is mighty and powerful. For a long time, he alone has overwhelmed the entire Kshatriya community. Even now, our people fall short in matching his valor. From this, you should understand that he requires no further proof of his extraordinary prowess. To go into his domain, to fight him, and to bring back Veeragauri is no ordinary task. Keep this in mind. Yet, the time has come to test your bravery.
Go with your brothers and soldiers, but with the utmost caution. Take with you your father’s sword, armor, and fourfold weapons. Also, bring along your teacher, Guru Somanatha, to consult from time to time. For the fulfillment of your vow and for victory in conquest, the blessings of elders and divine grace are essential. For triumph in this noble endeavor, I now initiate you into the great mantra ‘Sri Vijayagauri’. May it aid you in success. I tie this protective charm upon you, and with steadfast resolve, go forth to conquer, win Veeragauri, and bring her back with you.”
Having said this, she blessed Haramallu.
Haramallu bowed to his mother’s feet, took her blessings, and sent word to his brothers. Then he himself proceeded to Guru Somanatha. According to the command given, all the brothers made preparations—changing their attire, disguising themselves, and readying themselves to depart.
Thus, Haramallu, his brothers, soldiers, and Guru Somanatha assumed the guise of Perika-Setti merchants. They loaded bales (perikas) on their oxen—some filled with nine kinds of precious jewels, some with weapons, others with food and supplies. In this manner, they set out in the direction of Mahuripura.
Near Mahuripura, on a vast open field, Haramallu’s disguised army set up camp. With oxen and goods spread about, their merchant appearance was complete…
“The army occupied the entire field, but Haramallu was waiting for someone.”
“Veeramala (Haramallu), along with his brothers, set out on their travels disguised in the attire of Perika Shetty.”
“Look, Anamallu and Chinamallu are coming,” said a soldier. The face of Haramallu, who had been waiting for them, lit up with joy at their arrival.‘Parashurama has set out toward the neighboring village for his conquest. His soldiers are stationed along the main road of the village. We have gathered information about places that would be useful for our victory. In this way, we have brought complete details about Mahuripur and, especially, about its key locations,’ the brothers explained in detail to Haramallu.
‘Well done! You have brought valuable information. I was waiting, wondering why you hadn’t returned yet,’ said Haramallu. Then he went to Somnath and narrated all the details his brothers had gathered, along with the battle strategy suited to the situation.
‘Excellent! Do exactly that. You have my approval,’ said Somnath.
Soon, they all reached Mahuripur. As planned, Haramallu’s army lay in ambush along all the main roads and at the key strategic points. The villagers, however, had no inkling of this plan. Haramallu himself set up a grand shop in the open square in front of Veeragauri’s palace, opposite the royal palace. Seated at an elevated spot, he displayed a wide array of jewels…”
He displayed ornaments, jewelry, and gems to customers. His stall became the center of everyone’s attraction.
The gems, pearls, and diamonds he had sparkled and scattered prismatic rays. He had arranged those brilliant flashes so that they would catch the eye of Veeragauri’s palace—yet he made it seem to others that he and his brothers were simply busy with trade.
That evening, as usual, Veeragauri came out of the palace with her friends and maidservants. She noticed the dazzling glitter of jewels, diamonds, and rubies. Curious, she looked around in all directions. She saw Haramallu seated on the raised platform in the shop before the palace. At that same moment Haramallu’s gaze fell on Veeragauri. In an instant both their hearts were filled with a sweet blossom of feeling. Blushing, she hurried back into the palace.
Haramallu smiled with delight. Veeragauri’s attendant and friend Chaarumati followed her into the palace. “What’s the change I see on your face — is that because of him?” Chaarumati teased. Veeragauri, trying to disguise her feelings, replied casually, “Who is he? He looks very fine. There’s a noble air about him. I think he must be a Kshatriya. Perhaps he’s disguised as a merchant?” — a thought she kept to herself.
Sensing her friend’s feelings, Chaarumati said, “I think so too. Whoever he is, he seems perfect for you. Shall I find out who he is? Learn more about him?”
Out of modesty or concern for reputation she wouldn’t openly admit it, but from Veeragauri’s shy silence Chaarumati understood it as a yes.
“When shall we wait? I’ll go and fetch all the information about him right away.”
“Then I’ll do exactly as you say,” said Chaarumati, and immediately set off toward Haramallu outside the palace.
But once outside, she hesitated, unsure of what exactly to do. She thought of going directly to him and asking, but then learned that not just this one stall, but all the shops along the main street of the city belonged to him. So instead of approaching him directly, she decided to first make inquiries through one of the merchants in his other shops. She stepped into the neighboring shop, but, as already instructed by Haramallu, the merchant there revealed nothing significant.
“How difficult it is to get information from people who already know everything — his companions, his family!” she thought. After wandering here and there, all her efforts proved fruitless. Finally, she resolved that she must ask Haramallu himself.
Haramallu had already learned from his companions that she was trying to find out about him. So the moment he saw her, he broke into a knowing smile.
“My name is Chaarumati, I am Veeragauri’s friend and maid. I have not come for jewels or necklaces—” she began. But before she could finish, Haramallu interrupted: “I know. You’ve come to find out about me.”
Hearing this astonished her. “How did he know without my saying anything?” she wondered. “He is not only handsome but also clever and sharp—truly remarkable.”
“I am Haramallu, eldest son of King Siddhabhoopal of Bhogavatipur,” he declared. “These are my three brothers.” He introduced them all, then explained in detail about himself and the purpose of his coming to Mahuripuram.
“So you have come here for our Veeragauri!” Chaarumati exclaimed. “This must be the will of fate itself. Without knowing each other, you both have fallen in love. I will tell her of this right away.”
So Chaarumati went forward and quickly returned. She said, “If you give me some token or gift for Veeragauri, I can present it to her and share this joyful news.”
Smiling, Haramallu handed her a precious jeweled necklace, the kind worn by ministers, and said, “Tell her this is a mark of honor from me.”
Chaarumati placed the necklace around Veeragauri’s neck and recounted everything Haramallu had said. Hearing this, Gauri was overwhelmed with joy. In her delight, she began to swing herself vigorously, overcome with rapture. Remembering Narada’s earlier conversation with Renuka, she was filled with exhilaration. Through the unopened door of reality, her mind leapt into a dream world; beyond the bounds of reality, her heart swayed on the swing of imagination.
The maidservants, seeing her in this state, grew frightened. They thought something had happened to her. Chaarumati quickly ran to Renuka and reported that Gauri had fainted. Renuka rushed to her side and tried to bring her back to consciousness. As Gauri slowly revived, Renuka asked her what had happened. Out of fear, the maidservants began to slip away one by one. Finally, Chaarumati, trembling, told the entire story of what had occurred and fell at Renuka’s feet asking for forgiveness.
But Renukadevi was filled with joy and wonder. “Foolish girl, get up! What is there to forgive? You have done a wonderful thing. Do you know who Haramallu is? He is my very own nephew. Narada has already revealed this. Now it has simply come to pass!” she said.
Praised by Renuka, Chaarumati was overjoyed.
Taking Veeragauri into her arms and stroking her head, Renuka said tenderly, “See, my child, you have done a noble deed. Marry your enchanting Malhara and bring me happiness. My blessings will always be with you.
To lessen the tensions and bring harmony between our two families…”
“To bring harmony and to reduce Parashurama’s wrath against the Kshatriyas, your marriage will be the cause, I hope. This must take place while Parashurama is away from the village,” said Renukadevi.
“Mother! But why should my brother Parashurama see them as enemies? Why does he harbor such anger toward the Kshatriyas?” Veeragauri asked.
Renukadevi began: “Once, Ruchika came to King Gadhi…” and narrated the story—from Parashurama’s terrible vow, to how in his conquests he found the young Gauri, and how she was named Veeragauri. Hearing all of this, Veeragauri fell into deep thought.
“Look, my child, do not be shaken by what you’ve heard. All of this carries the grace of God. My heart tells me that only good will come of it. As the elders say, ‘What is auspicious must be done quickly.’ I now give you into Haramallu’s (Malhara’s) care.” Saying this, she turned to Chaarumati and ordered, “Go, bring Haramallu here.” Chaarumati, overjoyed, set out at once. Veeragauri, overcome with shyness, blushed deeply.
Perceiving her inner feelings, Renukadevi said gently, “I know your heart’s desire. My wish to see you wedded to a worthy groom has now been fulfilled. May your life be blessed! As the cool rays of the moon are enveloped in a mother’s love, so too may my Surya-Prāpti Mantra grant you auspicious fortune.” With these words, she blessed her.
Veeragauri’s heart overflowed with joy. Just then, Haramallu arrived. Veeragauri, bashful, slipped inside. Haramallu bowed low before Renukadevi, who drew him close, tears of joy streaming from her eyes. She inquired warmly about his parents, and with humility he told her everything. He clearly explained the purpose of his coming. Seeing his appearance, humility, courage, and valor, Renukadevi was filled with happiness. She then called for Veeragauri.
“I cannot build a wedding pavilion and celebrate your marriage with festive music,” she said, “but with all my heart, I give you my blessings and entrust my daughter into your care.”
“Take her with you, marry her formally in the presence of your parents, and live a life of happiness and prosperity,” said Renukadevi, blessing them as she placed Veeragauri’s hand into Haramallu’s. The maidservants and companions showered flowers. After bowing respectfully to Renukadevi and bidding farewell to everyone, Haramallu and Veeragauri set out. They went to the hermitage of Guru Shri Somanath, who blessed the couple. The fact that this union was accomplished so smoothly brought satisfaction to all.
“Guruvar, shall we depart?” Haramallu asked. “Haramalla, we have but one duty day and night. Let us leave swiftly and inform everyone of the good news,” replied Somanath.
At Haramallu’s command, everyone gathered their belongings and prepared for the journey.
Meanwhile, in Mahuripuram, Parashurama’s army learned that those posing as merchants were not true traders, but Kshatriyas in the guise of the Perika. They launched an attack on Haramallu’s forces. But Haramallu had not anticipated such a large army. Taken by surprise, his men were encircled by Parashurama’s soldiers. The unexpected assault left them stunned, but Haramallu quickly ordered his companions to ready themselves for battle.
Haramallu’s army fought Parashurama’s with fierce resistance. They overpowered his soldiers, killed some, captured others, and drove the rest into retreat.
“Guruvar! What if Parashurama sends another force against us? If we leave now, will they accuse us of fleeing? Should we stay here tonight and depart tomorrow?” Haramallu asked.
“Haramalla, this is not flight—it is departure. Even if they accuse us of fleeing, we owe them nothing. It is they who must face the consequences of waging war against us. Meanwhile, your parents are anxiously waiting. Our duty is to return quickly.”
“Go and bring them the news of victory, so they may find peace. Order all our companions to depart,” said Guru Somanath.
Haramallu, along with his soldiers and retinue, set out toward the caves of Merugiri. Narada recognized this as the crucial moment. Without delay, he rushed to where Parashurama was.
“Ah, Narada! What brings you here? Is all well? Great ones like you never come without cause,” said Parashurama.
“Parashurama, I have come in great haste,” Narada replied. “While you are attacking Kshatriyas here, an assault has been made on Mahuripur. Ah, yes, an assault—if not truly one, yet still an assault.”
“Who dared this assault?” Parashurama asked in astonishment.
“The eldest son of Siddhabhoopal, king of Bhogavatipur—Haramallu—together with his brothers, his army, and guided by their Guru, has come to Mahuripur. In the guise of Perikas, their forces defeated your army…” Narada paused mid-sentence.
“Narada! Why do you hesitate? Speak plainly and tell me all!” demanded Parashurama.
“Ah! That is it… whether with her consent, or by taking her captive, I cannot say. But what is certain is this—your symbol of victory, Veeragauri, he is taking her with him!” Narada’s words struck Parashurama like fire.
Parashurama’s eyes blazed with fury, his nostrils flared. With great speed, he leapt toward Haramallu’s direction and suddenly stood before Haramallu’s forces. They surrounded Parashurama, but in his wrath he scattered them, cutting them down in droves.
“Where is Haramallu? Where is my daughter?” he roared.
Sword and shield in hand, Haramallu stepped forward to face him. “I am Haramallu! Fight me! Defeat me, and only then may you reclaim your daughter,” he declared.
“Shame on you Kshatriyas! You have no honor! One of you stole the Kamadhenu…”
“You steal the Kamadhenu, and now you abduct women!” Parashurama spoke with scorn.
“Parashurama! Cast off your disdain and see the truth,” Haramallu replied. “Whether then or now, we have always fought to protect the people. As for Veeragauri—we love her. We intend to marry her. In such circumstances, do you not find it shameful that you speak of taking her away from us?”
“You call it victory—to sneak into the town in disguise while I was away, and to abduct an innocent girl who knew nothing of what was happening? You call that love?” Parashurama answered with bitter sarcasm.
“What do you know of love?” said Haramallu. “This is not some demonic impulse—it is pure like the union of the Gandharvas. We are well taught, cultured, valiant warriors. Did we not face your guards, your soldiers, all those stationed to protect this town? Only after defeating them did we depart!”
“Then defeat me now!” cried Parashurama, raising his axe high. Like a swift lion leaping upon its prey, Haramallu charged toward Parashurama. A fierce battle erupted between them. Terrible combat ensued—each move, each feint, each strike was matched with equal skill. Both men poured their entire mastery of warfare into the duel. The clash was so immense that the dust of the battlefield rose and filled the skies, plunging everything into darkness as though night had fallen. Until now, merely hearing Parashurama’s name had…
“The battle between Veeramannu and Parashurama.”
Parashurama had seen Kshatriyas flee before—none who faced him had ever survived. Yet this young man named Haramallu stood his ground, fighting him as an equal. “I must test his strength to the very end,” thought Parashurama, and he pressed on with relentless combat.
Parashurama began the fight in earnest. “Many Kshatriyas have fallen by my hand. Now I shall show this one my true mastery of battle—my valor, my unmatched skill,” he resolved.
But Haramallu thought otherwise: “This Parashurama is the cause of the suffering of the Kshatriya race, the one who has driven us into exile. Only by slaying him will I find peace of mind.” With fiery determination, he fought back.
The duel between them grew fierce. At one point, Haramallu’s sword struck so powerfully that Parashurama’s axe was knocked far away. Just then, for the sake of the world’s welfare, Lord Shankar himself appeared on the battlefield.
“Stop, Malhara (Haramallu)! Stop, Parashurama—be at peace!” declared Shankar. At these words, Parashurama snatched his fallen axe back into his hands.
“Lord!” Parashurama cried, “this Malhari, though born of the Kshatriya line, has forsaken his own dharma. In secret, he has abducted my foster-daughter. I will kill him!”
But Shankar replied: “Ah, Parashurama, do you not see? This Haramallu was born as part of me. To sustain the world, we manifest many divine plays. By the flow of time, society naturally divides into different orders and communities, and this is an inevitable law of nature.
Because of your fierce wrath in this very incarnation, many terrified and helpless Kshatriyas prayed to me. By my blessing, they escaped your fury and survived, taking up the way of the Perika—the Perika vocation—while still inwardly preserving their Kshatriya dharma.
To protect them, I myself took birth as Malhari (Haramallu), and caused Parvati to incarnate as Veeragauri. Even now, it is for this reason that Veeragauri has chosen Malhara. Therefore, this battle must end here. Instead, let it transform (kaiyyamunu viyyamuga marchukunumu—let enmity turn into union). Let the marriage of Veeragauri and Malhari be solemnized with your blessing.”
“The marriage must be completed. May this great banyan tree of the Perika-Kshatriya community grow, spread its branches, and flourish in prosperity,” Lord Shiva blessed them.
He further declared, “All the Kshatriyas who have been slain in battle shall, by my grace, return to life.” Saying this, he sprinkled sacred ash upon the fallen warriors, and all the soldiers rose again, alive once more.
“Lord Malhar himself manifested and offered wise counsel to Parashurama and Veeramannu.”
“All the revived soldiers bowed to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, chanting:
‘Namah Parvati Pate Har Har Mahadeva, protect us, safeguard us!’
They raised their voices in praise from all four directions:
‘Victory to Lord Sadashiva! Victory to King Malhar Maharaj! Victory to Parashurama!’
The atmosphere resounded with their jubilant cries. Blessing them all, Lord Shankar then disappeared.
After this, Parashurama relinquished his insistence, drew Veeragauri and Harmalla (Malhar) close, and bestowed his blessings upon them, saying: ‘Shubham Bhavatu’ (May all be auspicious). Guru…”
Parashurama called Somnath closer and said, “Master, you know all the ways of conduct and sacred rites. Under your guidance, let the marriage of these two be solemnized.”
Smiling, Somnath replied, “With the grace of great divine souls like yourself, all will indeed be blessed. The moment you choose shall itself be the most auspicious one! Tomorrow, here itself, the sacred wedding of Veeragauri and Malhari shall take place. You yourself must perform the kanyadaan (giving away of the bride).”
At these words, joyous acclamations resounded everywhere.
On one side came Renukadevi, and on the other side Taridevi, Siddhabhupal, and their relatives. The family of Chandravati, along with Priyamvada and Sugunadevi, also arrived for the wedding. All were filled with delight