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Upanishads conclude that everything except ‘Brahman’ is a mere illusion. For the simple reason that we cannot understand it, we cannot deem the Upanishads to be wrong, because we have many standing examples of Mahans who have attained this highest state of ‘Atmaswaroopa’ (Self). Since these Mahans have attained liberation or ‘BrahmaBhava’ (Self-realization) during their lifetime itself, they are called as ‘JivanMuktãs’. The biography of such great Mahans prove to be good examples and a real source of inspiration to all of us.

Srimad Bhãgavatam - Fifth Canto - Jadabharata Charithra

"If you ask what then is the Truth, Well! listen to my words- That Jnãna Swaroopa which is called Bhagavan, Vãsudeva and as Brahman by jnãnis, exists at all times, is without a second, is devoid of Maya("illusion"), does not fall within the category of "in" and "out", permeates everywhere, is changeless, is the Truth. This Jnãna Swaroopa cannot be attained through any sadhana other than the grace of the dust of the Mahan's Feet. One can most certainly attain that Jnãna by wearing on the head the dust of the Feet of those Mahans who sing the glory of Bhagavan and which removes one from worldly pursuits and bestows steadfast devotion towards Vãsudeva on those who regularly worship IT.

Oh! King! In my earlier birth I had been born as a King by name of Bharata. I was an able King but left the kingdom to meditate on Lord Hari. Inspite of meditating on Bhagavan, I was drawn towards a deer, got deeply attached to it and thus earned a birth as a deer. However, as I had worshipped the Lord, due His abundant grace, I did not lose the nature of worshipping Him even in the form of a deer. Now in this birth, fearing human company I wander about with detachment.

Thus a man, annihilating the "Moha"(desire) through the sword of the Knowledge born out of association with a dispassionate Mahan, discoursing on and ever contemplating on Hari Lila (Divine play), crosses over the ocean of life and attains the Lord Krishna, who is the personification of Bliss.

Oh! King! May you, who are suffering from hunger, thirst, desire, anger and avarice born out of Maya, be dispassionate, show love towards all creatures and with the sharp sword of Knowledge attained through devotion for Lord Hari, cross over this ocean of life." Advising thus, JadaBharata went about wandering as before.

Rahugana, adhering to JadaBharata's upadesa , showed love towards all creatures and through devotion towards Lord Hari attained Him.

To be continued……….

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