Vamana


Vamana, also known as Trivikrama, Urukrama, Upendra, Dadhivamana, Ulagalanthan and Balibandhana, is an avatar of the Hindu deity Vishnu. He is the fifth avatar of Vishnu and the first Dashavatara in the Treta Yuga, after Narasimha.
First mentioned in the Vedas, Vamana is most commonly associated in the Hindu epics and Puranas with the story of taking back the three worlds from the daitya-king Mahabali by taking three steps to restore the cosmic order and push Mahabali into the netherworld. He is the youngest among the adityas, the sons of Aditi and the sage Kashyapa.

Nomenclature and etymology

'Vāmana' means 'dwarf', 'small' or 'small or short in stature'. It also means 'dwarfish bull', which is notable as Vishnu is directly associated with dwarfish animals in the Vedas. Stated in Puranic literature to be born of the great sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi, other names or epithets referring to Vamana include:
NameSanskritMeaning / Description
'Balibandhana' or 'Balibandhanakrt'बलिबन्धन'binder or killer of Bali'; stated in the Garuda Purana to mean 'who fettered the demon Bali'.
'Dadhi-vamana'दधिवामन'bestowing', 'giving', 'curd' / 'curdled milk', and 'resin of Shala tree'.
'Trivikrama'त्रिविक्रम'three steps' or 'three strides'. This epithet refers to the three steps or strides of Vishnu in the Rigveda.
'Urukrama'उरुक्रम'far stepping' or 'wide stride', presumably in relation to covering all existence with the second step.
'Upendra'उपेन्द्र'younger brother of Indra' or simply 'a son'. This epithet refers to the birth of the Dwarf Avatar as one of the 12 adityas - sons - of Aditi and the sage Kashyapa.
'Vāmanadeva'वामनदेव'dwarf-god'.

Legend

After Indra is defeated by the daitya called Bali, the king of the asuras, the great-great grandson of Kashyapa and Diti, the devas ultimately seek refuge in Vishnu, who agrees to restore Indra to power. To do so, Vishnu incarnates as Vamana
Mahabali decided to perform a grand Ashwamedha Yagna at a place called Bhrigukachaka on the northern bank of the Narmada River.
Vamana come there, who requests only three feet of land. Bali agrees, despite being warned about Vamana's true nature as Vishnu.
Vamana grew as Trivikrama. With one foot, he measured the entire Earth and the nether worlds, and with the other foot, he measured the sky and the upper worlds.
He looked at King Bali and asked where the third step should land.
Determined to keep his word, King Bali told Vamana to place the third step on his head.Upon hearing this, Lord Vishnu appeared in his true form and blessed King Bali and allowed him to rule the underworld.
So Bali went to Pathala
the netherworld. Due to the Vamana incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Indra and other gods retained Amaravati.

Symbolism

A. A. Macdonell states that the 'reason why Visnu took his three steps is a secondary trait. He thrice traversed the earthly spaces for man in distress ; he traversed the earth to bestow it on man for a dwelling ; he traversed the earthly spaces for wide-stepping existence ; with Indra he took vast strides and stretched out the worlds for our existence. This feature in the may ultimately be traced to the myth of Vishnu's dwarf incarnation which appears in the epics and Puranas. The intermediate stage is found in the Brahmanas, where Vishnu takes the form of a dwarf, to reclaim the earth for the devas by means of sacrifice.The three points in sun's course: Roy states that 'Vishnu's three strides alluded to in the Rigveda have been variously interpreted as symbolizing the three different positions of the sun at its rising, peak and setting.
The three worlds and the three planes: J. Muir mentions Sayanas take on the three steps of Vishnu found the White Yajurveda. 'Vishnu, becoming incarnate as Trivikrama, strode over the whole universe. The same idea is expressed by the Rishis, "In three places he planted his step, as Agni, Vayu, and Surya each after the other". Agni is found on the ground, Vayu prevades the atmosphere and Surya high in the dome of sky, thus the three steps symbolise the three planes, the ground below, air in between, and the sky above.
Three states of sleep and wakefulness: S. Chanda states the three strides symbolize the three states of existence – Jagrat, Swapna and sushupti. The final step of Vamana is on the head of Bali which symbolizes Liberation and the transcendence of these states.

Nirukta

Written by the grammarian Yaska, Nirukta is one of the six Vedangas or 'limbs of the Vedas', concerned with correct etymology and interpretation of the Vedas. The entry for Vishnu states :
This account essentially states that the three footsteps may symbolise the positions of the sun or physical existence conceptualised as 'three worlds'. In regard to the references to Sakapuni and Aurnavabha, K. S. Murty states that 'Yaska was not the first to interpret Vedic words as he did. He referred to a Nighantu with Samamnaya which he cited and explained. He had predecessors like Sakapuru, Audumbarayana, Aupamanyava and others'.

Vedas

Rigveda

Samhita

Roy states that the Rigvedic passages referring to Vishnu's three strides are obviously the nucleus, out of which the legend of the Dwarf was created. But the Rigveda, however, does not describe Vishnu as dwarf or Vamana'. W. J. Wilkins agrees, stating that in regard to the Vishnu strides of the Rigveda, 'in these verses there is probably the germ of the Dwarf Incarnation'.
In regard to the above-quoted verses, it is commonly accepted that there are Seven Continents or 'regions of the earth'. A. Glucklich adds that 'In the Matsya Purana, for instance, there is a seven-part map of the world... one centre, where an immense mountain – Mount Meru – stands... The continents encircle the mountain in seven concentric circles... It seems clear that the Himalayas were the approximate location of Mt. Meru'.
In regard to the three steps of Vishnu, Glucklich points out that in some legends of Vamana and the Asura-King Bali, that 'the first covered the entire earth, the second covered the atmosphere, and the third measured heaven in its entirety'. M. Haug, in his translation of the Aitareya Brahmana of the Rigveda, clarifies that the 'three worlds' often means the Ground, the Air, and the Sky. Three steps thus encompasses all of physical existence. D. Goodall also relates more a mystical interpretation of what 'three worlds' symbolises, as provided by the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, including Mind, Speech, and Breath.
Notably, Muir also states that although 'Adabhya' can be translated as 'who cannot be deceived', it can also be translated as 'the unconquerable preserver', and notes that the 'idea of Vishnu being preeminently the preserver of the universe, which became current in later times, may possibly have been derived from this verse'.

Aitareya Brahmana

The concept of Vishnu obtaining the three worlds for the Devas from the Asuras in three steps is clearly explained in the Aitareya Brahmana. The Rigveda Samhita verse referred to regarding Indra and Vishnu battling the Asuras states 'Ye Twain have conquered, ne’er have ye been conquered: never hath either of the Twain been vanquished. Ye, Indra-Vishnu, when ye fought the battle, produced this infinite with three divisions'.
The Maruts, referred to as 'the sons of Rudra' are frequently mentioned throughout the Rigveda, including in relation to the above quotation, producing rain. Indra is the god of rain and as stated in the Aitareya Brahmana, 'rain gives food'. This is elaborated upon in the Aitareya Aranyaka which states "the seed of the devas is rain. The seed of rain is herbs. The seed of herbs is food". Additionally, in the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna states 'All living bodies subsist on food grains, which are produced from rains. Rains are produced by performance of yajna'.

Sama Veda

Samhita

The translator, R.T.H. Griffith, states in his introduction to the Sama Veda that it 'is made up of hymns, portions of hymns, and detached verses, taken mainly from the Rigveda'. The above-quoted Sama Veda hymn, for example, is taken directly from Rigveda hymn 1.22.

Pancavimsa Brahmana

The terms 'stoma' and 'saman' from the above-quoted Pancavimsa Brahmana refer to mantras and hymns, such from the Sama Veda.
The Jaiminīya Brahmana has a similar verse which omits Vishnu's strides but explains the Varavantiya saman as 'He who desired cattle should apply the Varavantiya Saman. Prajapati created the animals. Having been created they ran away from him. By means of the Varavantiya Saman he held them back. Because he held them back therefore the Varavantiya is called the Varavantiya. The application of the Varavantiya as the agnistoma Saman is made in order that the animals remain present and do not run away'.
In the Taittiriya Samhita 5.5.8 Varavantiya is also explained as 'Prajapati created Agni; he, created, went away from him; him he checked by the Varavantiya, and that is why the Varavantiya has its name. By the Cyaita he congealed him, and that is why the Cyaita has its name. In that he reverences, with the Varavantiya, he restrains him, and by the Cyaita he congeals him'.
The strides of Vishnu are thus referred to in regard to restraining animals from running away from sacrifices. This idea of being restrained by Vishnu strides may be linked to Bali often being restrained or bound in the legend of Vamana.

Yajur Veda

White Yajurveda: Vajasaneyi Samhita

In regard to the above quotation, Aiyangar states that long hair indicates Munis, and shaven hair indicates 'an ascetic of the order of sannyasin'. Roy argues that in 'the Satarudriya hymn of the Yajurveda, Rudra is referred to as vamana. Rudra is said to preside over the asterism of Ardra and may, therefore, be understood to denote the star'.
However, the terms 'thousand-eyed', 'mountain-haunter', and 'Sipivishta' given in the above-quote all also apply to Vishnu. In addition, the Shatapatha Brahmana, relates the legend of Vishnu as a Dwarf, not Rudra /Shiva. Regardless, in the Puranas there are legends of both Vishnu and Shiva incarnating as Brahmin-dwarfs, and the above-quoted hymn provides the essential ingredients: the Brahmin, the Dwarf, and the concept of growth.

White Yajurveda: Shatapatha Brahmana

Muir states about this legend in the Shatapatha Brahmana that 'Vishnu is represented as a dwarf, and as having, under the form of sacrifice, conquered the whole earth... contains the germ of the story of the Dwarf incarnation'. This legend is given in relation to the Darsapûrnamâseshtî, or 'New and Full-moon Sacrifices'. The translator, Eggeling, states that the above-quoted legend 'represents the Purva-Parigraha, or first enclosing of the altar by a single line being drawn with the wooden sword on each of the three sides'. He also supposes that the size of Vishnu may represent 'the sun-light, which, on shrinking to a dwarf's size in the evening, is the only means of preservation left to the devas'.
This instruction, relating directly to the Vishnu strides mentioned in the Rigveda, is also given in relation to the Darsapūrnamāseshtī, or 'New and Full-moon Sacrifices'. The three strides of Vishnu are not mentioned in direct relation to the legend of Vishnu as a dwarf. Instead, they are mentioned in regard to the performance of sacrifices to consecrate the sacrificial ground.
This quote shows that 'Bali' is used refer to oblative portions or sacrificial offerings in ritual ceremonies such as the Agnihotra. In combination with 'Bali' being used to refer to taxes, it therefore seems possible these meanings are linked with Bali being a king that loved to perform sacrifices and give sacrificial offerings.

Black Yajurveda: Taittiriya Samhita

As per the above quote from the Taittirya Samhita, the sacrificial fee for Vishnu is a dwarf-animal. As D.A. Soifer states, the 'series of connections inherent in all this seems to be as follows: Visnu's three steps regain the worlds - Vishnu as a dwarf takes the three steps - a dwarf animal is sacrificed to Visnu to gain the power of this three steps'.

Black Yajurveda: Taittiriya Brahmana

This quote shows that 'Bali' is used refer to taxes paid to the King. It seems possible that this is linked to the character of Bali being a king who - also consistent with the other meaning of 'sacrificial offerings or oblations' - loved to perform sacrifices and give sacrificial offerings.

Upanishads

Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is one of the Mukhya or Principal 108 Upanishads. From the last book of the Satapatha Brahmana, it is a treatise on Atman, and has been commented upon by figures such as Adi Shankar and Madhvacharya.
According to this Sruti scripture, the concept of the 'three worlds' does not just refer to physical reality. It also has other - more mystical - meanings, including Speech, Mind, and Vital Force. As such, the legend of Vamana striding over the three worlds in two or three steps also may have more mystical meanings, and those provided by the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad seem to be consistent with established Vedic concepts such as Pancha Bhoota. For example, it is stated by the above-quoted Upanishad that the first step on the earth also represents the organ of speech. According to other authoritative - including Sruti sources - the first step, ground, and speech are all represented by Agni :

Itihasa (Epics)

Mahabharata

The Mahabharata, ascribed to the sage Vyasa, is one of two epic poems in the Hindu cannon. Most notably, of the 18 the books of the Mahabharata, the sixth is the Bhagavad Gita, containing the teachings of Krishna. The main account of Vamana is quoted above from chapter 270 of the third book, the Vana Parva, in its entirety. All other references cited are either brief mentions of this legend or supplementary information such as blessings that can be obtained in relation to Vamana.
Notably, academics such as J. Melton and C. A. Jones state that 'Onam, an ancient rice harvest festival, is now tied to the story of King Mahabali as recounted in the epic Indian tale, the Mahabharata... Vishnu, impressed with Mahabali's devotion, granted him the boon of being able to revisit his former subjects once a year'. However, no references were provided and no such account has been found in the Mahabharata. Other notable details include:
  • Referring to the Rigveda, it is stated 'He is the great Boar. He is the great Man-Lion, and He is the Three-stepped Lord'
  • Aditi gave birth to the devas, Diti the Asuras, and Danu the Danavas; all are wives of Kashyapa
  • Krishna, while informing the sage Narada of His incarnations including Vamana, states 'The Vedas... were re-created by me in the Satya Yuga. They have once more disappeared or may only be partially heard here and there in the Puranas'
  • It is stated that 'By observing a fast on the twelfth day of the moon in the month of Ashadha and worshipping Krishna as the dwarf, one attains to the merits of the Naramedha sacrifice and sports in happiness with the Apsaras'
  • Vishnu states 'who behold a Brahmana that is a dwarf in stature, or a boar that has just risen from water and that bears on his head a quantity of mud taken up from the bank, have never to meet with any evil. They become freed from every sin'

Harivamsa

First account
The first account consists of only one chapter. It begins with the Daitya Bali, having conquered Indra and the devas, conducting a Rajasuya sacrifice, officiated by Shukra and joined by 'many Brahmanas observant of ascetic vows and well read in the Vedas'. At this sacrifice Sarasvati appears and grants Bali a boon. Vamana is then born, takes the three worlds away from Bali in three footsteps, and restores Indra to power while the 'Daityas entered into the nether region'. Bali gratifies the devas with an 'offering of ambrosia', and so 'was shorn of his sins and became immortal'.
Second account
The second account of the legend of Vamana is very similar to the accounts in the Matsya Purana and Vamana Purana. As shown above in comparison to the Vamana Purana, there are even strong similarities in wording, despite being a different translation of different text by a different translator. It therefore seems likely that either all three texts share a common source, or that one is the origin of the others.
The second - and main - account of Vamana consists of 7 chapters. 'Kashyapa, the well-dressed son of Marichi, espoused two sisters of Prajapati, Diti and Aditi'. Aditi gives birth to the twelve classes of celestials / Adityas / Suras, and Diti gives birth to the demons / Daityas / Asuras, including Hiranyakashipu, the great-grandfather of Bali. After Hiranyakashipu is destroyed by the Narasimha incarnation, the noble Bali is crowned King of the Asuras. Having defeated Indra and the Suras, Bali is congratulated by Lakshmi.
The devas seek refuge with their mother, Aditi, at her Hermitage. She tells Indra 'yourself and all the immortals cannot slay Virochana's son, Bali. Only the thousand-headed Purusha is capable of slaying him and none else'. The devas and Aditi then approach Kashyapa, who agreeing with their desire to restore Indra's throne, takes them to the celestial abode of Brahmaloka to speak with Brahma. Brahma advises them to seek Vishnu, and they do so 'at the northern bank of the ocean of milk... Reaching that place called Amrita the Suras along with Kashyapa began to practice hard austerities for many years with a view to propitiate the thousand-eyed intelligent Yogin Narayana'.
Vishnu, pleased with the austerities of the devas, agrees to Kashyapa's request to be born as Indra's 'younger brother, ever enhancing the joy of thy kinsmen and as the son of myself and Aditi'. Back at the Hermitage 'filled with saints they engaged in the study of the Vedas and awaited Aditi's conception;. After a thousand years of pregnancy, Aditi, gives birth to Vamana, 'the protector of the devas and the destroyer of the Asuras'. Praised and Eulogised by the devas, Vamana agrees to attend the horse sacrifice of Bali with the Rishi Vrihaspati, and while there 'will do what I think proper for regaining the three worlds'.
At the sacrifice Vamana 'assumed the form of a boy, had smokey eyes, wore sacrificial thread well-polished, and deer-skin. He had an umbrella and staff in his hands. Although not aged he appeared like an old man'. Appearing to Bali, Vamana 'of wonderful speech, with reasons and arguments laid down in the Vedas, but not visible to any, described himself unto Bali as being identical with sacrifice'. Astonished, Bali asks about Vamana and what He wants. After describing the details and merits of the Ashvamedha sacrifice, Vamana requests three steps of land before Bali is warned by Shukra 'do not promise him any gift... He is the Great Lord Hari. Having assumed the form of a dwarf through his Maya he has come here to impose on you for the well-being of the king of devas '.
Bali, pleased that the Lord of Sacrifice has personally attended, rejects the protests of both Shukra and his grandfather Prahlada to gift three footsteps of land to Vamana, who then displays his Universal Form. Angry, the other Asuras approach Vamana 'like insects going to a fire'. Increasing His gigantic form, Vamana smashes 'all the sons of Diti with his palms and feet'. The Asura leaders are destroyed, the three worlds possessed 'with his three-foot steps' are given back to Indra, and Bali is pleased to be assigned 'the region under the earth called Sutala'. Bali is also conferred a boon where he will benefit from the merits of things like improper sacrifices and vow-less studies, etc. Vishnu divides the world, and later Narada and Garuda discuss Vishnu with Bali, bound by celestial serpents.
Links to the Varaha incarnation
  • Notably, the horse-sacrifice is described as 'the best of all sacrifices' and that this 'great yajna the shape of a boar with golden horns, iron hoops and gait fleet like the mind, which has profuse gold and is the origin of the universe, is highly sacred'. This may link to the Varaha incarnation
  • Bali, after the three worlds were taken from him by the Vamana incarnation and stricken by the consequences, mentions Varaha lifting the Earth to Narada

Ramayana

Valmiki version 1

  • Siddhacrama is the name of the Hermitage 'of the high-souled Vamana'

Mahapuranas

Agni Purana

The first brief account of the legend of Vamana in the Agni Purana, consisting of only 7 verses, has been quoted above in full. Notably, despite only being two paragraphs in length, it seems to contain all the fundamentals of the legend :
  1. Indra and the devas are defeated by Bali, the demonic king who now rules the three worlds
  2. The devas ultimately seek refuge in Vishnu, who is born to Aditi as Vamana the Brahmin-dwarf, to defeat Bali
  3. Vamana attends a Sacrifice being performed by the noble Bali, who ignores warnings about Vamana to knowingly grant three steps of land
  4. Vamana repossesses the three worlds in three steps which are given to Indra who rules again, and Bali is sent to the Netherworld.
Other details include:

Bhagavata Purana

The main account of the legend of Vamana in the Bhagavata Puran is narrated by Sukadeva Gosvami to King Pariksit. Given its similarity to legends provided in the Harivamsa, as well as the Matsya, Vamana, and Skanda Purunas, it seems this account either shares a common source, or more likely was derived from at least one of these other accounts. Quotes given below in the chapter summaries are taken from the chapter introductions provided by the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust for conciseness.
After the Churning Of The Ocean Of Milk, Bali was defeated and killed by the Devas led by Indra, but was brought back by Sukracarya, who becomes his preceptor. After performing the Visvajit-yajna, and rebuilding his strength, Bali travels to the city of Indrapuri with his army for another battle with Indra, while 'Brhaspati advised the demidevas to leave the heavenly planets and keep themselves somewhere invisible..., in performing one hundred asvamedha-yajnas... enjoyed the opulences of the heavenly planets'. Aditi, to help her son Indra, performs penances to propitiate Vishnu, as taught by Kashyapa. Krishna, 'being very pleased by the payo-vrata ceremony performed by Aditi... agreed to become her son'.
After Vamana is born and assumes the form of a dwarf, the Jatakarma and sacred thread ceremonies are performed. Vamana then visits the sacrificial arena on the northern side of the Narmada River, at the field known as Bhṛgukaccha, where brahmanas of the Bhrigu dynasty were performing yajnas... after washing the Lord's feet, Bali Maharaja immediately accepted the water from the Lord's feet on his head and felt that he and his predecessors had certainly been glorified. Then Bali Maharaja inquired of Lord Vamanadeva's welfare and requested the Lord to ask him for money, jewels or anything He might desire'.
Vamana praises Hiranyakasipu and Hiranyaksa before asking for three footsteps of land. However, Sukracarya knows the dwarf is Vishnu acting on behalf of Indra, and so forbids Bali to gift anything. As it 'is the duty of a householder to maintain the principles of religion... Bali Maharaja thought it improper to withdraw his promise... Lord Vamanadeva then immediately extended Himself into a universal body. By the mercy of Lord Vamanadeva, Bali Maharaja could see that the Lord is all-pervading and that everything rests in His body... The Lord gradually covered the entire surface of the world, and by extending His body He covered the entire sky. With His hands He covered all directions, and with His second footstep He covered the entire upper planetary system. Therefore, there was no vacant place where He could take His third footstep'.
Seeing Bali deprived of everything in two steps, angry demons attack Vamana, but are defeated and - on Bali's order - are banished to the netherworld. Bali is arrested and bound with the rope of Varuna by Garuda, before Vishnu asks for the third step of land promised. However, as 'Lord Vishnu appreciated Bali Maharaja's determination and integrity, when Bali Maharaja was unable to fulfill his promise, Lord Vishnu ascertained that the place for him would be the planet Sutala, which is better than the planets of heaven'. Bali remembers the devotion of his grandfather, Prahlada, and so offers his head to Vishnu for the third step; pleased with this devotion, Krishna offers 'His disc to protect Bali Maharaja' and promises to remain with him as a doorkeeper. Other details include:
  • Vamana is the 15th overall incarnation of Krishna
  • Vamana is stated to have had a wife called Kirti with whom 'He begot one son, named Bṛhatsloka, who had many sons, headed by Saubhaga'. Aiyangar states that Kirti means 'Fame', Brihat-soka means 'great praise', and Sanbhaga means 'Happiness'. The only other mention of a wife is made in the Vishnu Puran, whose name there is stated to be Padma or Kamala
  • According to the Brahmavaivarta Puran, Aditi performed a different ceremony to beget Vamana, called the Supunyaka Vrata
  • The 'kaccha' from 'Bhrgukaccha' refers to tortoises, as well as to soil
  • Krishna informs his parents, Vasudeva and Devaki, that He was also previously their son as Vamana when they were Kashyapa and Aditi
  • Bana, the eldest son of Bali, was a devotee of Shiva and 'especially satisfied the lord by playing a musical accompaniment with his one thousand arms'

Brahma Purana

First account

Although the first account of the legend of Vamana in Brahma Purana is brief and otherwise entirely typical in nature, it is notable that 20 of the 28 verses focus on detailing the names and attributes of the Asuras that either attacked and/or were destroyed by Vamana. The remaining 8 verses relay the legend itself, whereby Vishnu adopts the dwarf-form of Vamana, attends 'the yajna of the powerful Bali', crushes the demons in His gigantic form, and returns control of the three worlds to Indra.

Second account

The second account of the legend of Vamana consists of an entire chapter. Narrated by Brahma to Narada, it differs from the usual accounts insofar as the devas led by Indra are 'defeated' not in a literal battle, but rather by the good and noble qualities of the invincible Bali, under whose rule 'there were no enemies, no ailments, no anxieties in any way.. While Bali was ruling over the kingdom, none of these was seen even in dream, viz. famine, evil, denial of God, wickedness'. Jealous and miserable, the devas seek refuge in Vishnu, who states Bali is a devotee, 'cannot be conquered by Devas or Asuras', but can be bound 'by means of words with miraculous power' to return the kingdom to them.
Vishnu enters the womb of Aditi and is born as the dwarf, Vamana. Assuming the form of a Brahmin, Vamana then attends the sacrifice of Bali 'singing Saman verses'. The preceptor of the demons, Sukra - a descendant of Bhrgu - warns Bali and his wife about Vamana, and Bali responds 'Blessed I am because the lord of sacrifices is coming to my house so unexpectedly'.
Vamana requests three steps of land, this is granted by Bali, and Vamana grows in size, covering all of existence in two steps, as quoted above. Pleased with Bali, Vamana offers a boon but Bali does not wish for anything. The three worlds are returned to Indra, and Bali and his family are sent to the netherworld.

Brahmanda Purana

A brief account of the legend of Vamana is provided in the Brahmanda Purana. It is notable as one of the few accounts where Bali is neither forewarned nor aware of the true nature of Vamana, or the consequences for gifting a three footsteps of land. In addition, while Bali and other 'Asuras along with their sons and grandsons' are driven to Sutala by Vamana, the 'cruel ones among them were killed'. After the Devas, Danavas, and human beings see the gigantic universal form of Vamana - containing the universe within it - the three worlds are bestowed back to the 'noble-souled' leader of the Devas, Indra. Other details include:
  • The tip of one of Vishnu's toes, while He took the three steps to reclaim the three worlds from Bali, created the Ganges river
  • Of the 12 battles or wars between the Devas and Asuras, the first involved Narasimha, the second Vamana, and the third Varaha
  • Bali is described as 'noble-minded' and as a 'great Yogin'

Brahmavaivarta Purana

The legend of Vamana quoted above seems to be unique to the Brahmavaivarta Purana. In this account, Visvakarma is employed by Indra to rebuild the city of Amaravati after it is destroyed. A year later, with Indra still not satisfied and unable to return to his abode, Visvakarma seeks the help of Brahma. Brahma in turn seeks the help of Vishnu, who incarnates in the 'form of a Brahmana boy... He wore a serene smile on his face which was quite charming'. Indra becomes arrogant and haughty after being asked about the length of time Visvakarma must be engaged, so as quoted above, Vamana points out there have been innumerable Indras in innumerable universes.
Countless thousands of ants appear, and Vamana states to Indra that every one of them was previously enthroned as an Indra. He adds that all the ants had achieved their positions - high and low - because of their Karmas, alone. A sage called Lomasa arrives later, and asked why a patch of hair was missing from his chest, states that he loses a hair every time an Indra dies. He adds that there have been innumerable Brahmas, and that yet with 'the fall of Brahma, Vishnu winks but once'. Vamana - who turns out to be 'Shiva in the form of Vishnu' - and Lomasa disappear. Indra, looking at 'the whole scene like a dream', is left more humbled and intelligent. Visvakarma is thus generously rewarded with riches for his work by Indra and sent back to his own abode.
A more typical account of Vamana is also provided elsewhere in the Purana. Quoted below, it is given as one of a series of examples where Indra becomes arrogant and so has his pride shattered by Vishnu :
Other details include:
  • It is stated that Bali consumes the sacrifices improperly performed
  • The Supunyaka Vrata is undertaken by women to propitiate Krishna and through His favour beget a son; it is stated that Aditi performed the Supunyaka Vrata to get 'a son who happened to be the dwarf incarnation' ; According to the Bhagavata Puran, Aditi instead performed the payovrata.
  • The Prajapati Sutapa and his wife Prsni pleased Vishnu so much with their tapas that he agreed to be their son, including a second time as Vamana in their incarnations as Kashyapa and Aditi, and ultimately a third time as Krishna in their incarnations as Vasudeva and Devaki
  • Ratnamala, the daughter of Bali, 'felt attracted towards Vamana and desired to have him as her son, she had thought in her mind that the son like him should be fed by her from her breasts'. Her wish was granted by Vishnu: incarnated as Putana, the demoness breastfed poison to baby Krishna before being killed by Him
  • Shiva incarnated as a dwarf Brahmana - described almost identically to Vamana - when concerned for Parvati, who had grown weak due to practising austerities ; this may be a reference to Vajasaneyi Samhita.

Garuda Purana

It seems that the legend of Vamana is only briefly mentioned in the Garuda Purana, such as in the example quoted above. Other details include:
  • 'Vamana' is one of the 1,000 names of Vishnu, as is 'Balibandhanakrt', Trivikrama, and 'Bali'
  • The Salagrama stone for Vamana 'is circular and short'
  • Vamana is listed as fifth in Dashavatara, the ten principle incarnations of Vishnu
  • 'Vamana' is one of the names of Vishnu to repeat at a sacred rite to take place 'On the eighth day in the dark half mingled with the Rohini star'
  • Bali is stated by Hari to be the son of Virocana, grandson of Prahlada, the son of Hiranyakasipu, and to have had 100 sons of his own, the eldest being Bana
  • During the reign of the next Manu called Savarni, Bali will be elected to the post of Indra
  • It is stated that the 'idol of dadhivamana should have the size of barley corn. It should be round, blue in hue, slender in proportion and of pleasant aspect. It should wield a pair of wheels, five gopuras, bow and arrow. It should be straight and round and adorned with a garland of wild flowers. It should contain a thousand heads, a silvery dot on the right side of the forehead and an auspicious semicircular mark on the left and the full moon in the middle. Such auspicious gifts are attended by good fortune to the donor'

Kurma Purana

In the Kurma Purana, there are two accounts of Vamana.

First account

In the first account, following the part quoted above, Vamana covering all three worlds in three steps splits the cosmic egg, and the consequent flow of water rushing into it is 'termed by Brahma' as the Ganges. Vamana then tells Bali that he will be banished to the netherworld until merging with Him at the time of dissolution. Vamana gives the three worlds back to Indra before disappearing in front of everyone's eyes. In the nether world, the devotee Bali seeks instruction from his grandfather, Prahlada, to worship and seek refuge in Vishnu.
Prahlada is also directly linked with the legend of Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Vishnu, who killed Hiranyakashipu. Hiranyakashipu is the father of Prahlada, great-grandfather of Bali, and elder brother of Hiranyaksha. The latter was killed by Varaha, the third incarnation of Vishnu. Both Hiranyakashipu and Hiranyaksha themselves are the first of three incarnations of Jaya and Vijaya, the doorkeepers of Vishnu cursed by the Four Kumaras.

Second account

In a second and much briefer account, it is stated that in 'this Vaivasvata Manuvantra, Vishnu was born of Kashyapa and Aditi as Vamana. Winning the three worlds with his three steps, this high-souled lord gave in to Indra the triple world bereft of all obstacles... Since this entire world was entied by the high-souled Vamana, therefore he is called by all as Vishnu due to the root 'Vis' involved herein'. Vaivasvata, also known as Shraddhadeva Manu, is the current and seventh of fourteen total Manus that rule the current Kalpa in succession. Vaivasvata is also directly linked with the legend of Matsya, the first incarnation of Vishnu, who rescued him from the deluge at the end of the reign of the sixth Manu, Chakshusha.

Linga Purana

In the Linga Purana, the legend of Vamana is only briefly mentioned, as quoted above. Other details include:
  • 'Vamana' and 'Trikrama' are listed as two of the 1,000 names of Shiva
  • Matala, the netherworld or Hell, 'is occupied by Ananta, Mucukunda and king Bali who is the resident of Patala and Svarga'
  • It is stated that 'Omkara is identical with the three worlds, the three Vedas, the three sacrificial fires, the three steps of Vishnu, the three scriptures, viz. Rk, Samans and Yajur mantras'
  • Vamana is listed in the Dashavatara, or ten principle incarnations of Vishnu

Markandeya Purana

It seems that in the Markandeya Purana, the legend of Vamana is not mentioned.

Matsya Purana

In the Matsya Purana, three chapters are dedicated to the legend of Vamana. It has elements and descriptions very similar to that of the Vamana Purana in particular. In this account, Shaunaka tells Arjuna that after Indra is vanquished by the Asuras, his mother, Aditi, 'the mother of the Devas began to practise rigid austerities. For one thousand years she worshipped Lord Krishna by living on air alone, and on seeing Her children oppressed by the she said to Herself that Her sons were born in vain'. Vishnu, pleased with the devotion of Aditi, agrees to her request to restore Indra to power and states 'I shall therefore be born of you through Kashyapa when I shall kill all the demons' .
After the demons lose their lustre, Bali enquiries from his grandfather and Devotee of Vishnu, Prahlada, what the reason is. Meditating on Hari, Prahlada has a vision of Vamana and informs Bali, who initially scoffs but apologises after being cursed as 'indiscriminate, vicious and disrespectful'. Upon the birth of Vamana, 'all the Devas, even the Demons, men, earth, heaven, sky became peaceful', while Brahma prays and performs the appropriate birth ceremonies. Brahma gives Vamana a deerskin to wear, Vrihaspati the sacred thread, Marichi the Danda, Vasitha the Kamandala, Angira gives Kusa grass and the Vedas, Pulaha the Aksasutra, and Pulastya the white raiment. As Vamana proceeds to the sacrifice of King Bali, the 'portion of the land on which Vamana put His feet in walking sank down and a deep hole appeared there and He made the whole world with all its mountains to oceans... quiver though He walked slowly'.
Bali enquires from his preceptor Shukra why his sacrifices are not being accepted by Agni, and is informed Vamana is coming to the sacrifice. Although realising that Vishnu cannot be refused, Bali is still considers it 'uncommon good fortune that the Lord, for whose sake various asceticism, gifts, sacrifices, etc., are performed' will accept his offering in person. Bali offers any riches or any amount of land Vamana chooses, but is requested to give only three steps.
Upon agreement, Vamana 'spread His vast Form and He measured the earth in the twinkling of an eye', and spreading over the three worlds, 'killed the great Asuras for the benefit of the Devas'. Vamana gives the three worlds to Indra and the nether regions to Bali, with the promise that after 'Vaivasvata Manu is succeeded by Savarni Manu, you will become Indra '. Vamana also mentions that as Bali in 'ancient times' had worshipped Him most devoutly, he can go to live in Patala, 'abounding in excellent gardens, palaces, luxuriant flowers, lakes, rivers' etc. Vamana then vanishes. Other details include:
  • The oldest of Bali's 100 sons is Bana, who had 1,000 arms
  • Bali reigned for 20,080,000 years
  • The queen of Bali is Vindhyabali
  • The place where Bali performed sacrifices is called Ilavrita Varsa, 'famous as being the birthplace of all the Devas'
  • Shuka states 'O Prahlada, your grandson, King Bali, will reign with all glory, in different realms for, even, Lord Vishnu will promise this secretly to your grandson, when He will deprive him of his kingdom in His Dwarf incarnation... Shiva, the most supreme Lord of the entire universe, has spoken to me, as a secret, that Bali will be the future King of the Devas, and therefore He, invisible to all, is awaiting that time, O Prahlada'.
  • It is stated "Namah Karanavamanya on the fore of the teeth sacred to Svati asterism and Vamana incarnation"

Narada Purana

In the Narada Purana, the legend of Vamana is given in chapter eleven. The translator in footnote 12 to this chapter states that the 'gift of land has been highly praised as the most meritorious, from ancient times. Apararka quotes many verses from the Visnudharmottara Puran, the Aditya Purana and Matsya Purana... and states that there is no gift comparable to the gift of land. Verses pertaining to land-grant are common not only in Puranas or Smrti works but are recorded on inscriptions and copper-plates of such grants all over India'.
In this account, Vishnu visits and offers Aditi a boon, being pleased with her penances. Aditi requests that her sons, the Devas, be restored to power, but without 'any harm unto Daityas, since they too are my sons'. Vishnu agrees, and promises to be born as her son, Vamana. Praised by Kashyapa upon His birth before taking 'leave of his mother and father, that Brahmana bachelor Vamana, went over to the great sacrifice of the supremely affluent Daitya, that was being performed'. Sukra warns Bali and advises him not to give anything to Vamana, but Bali refuses, stating 'O preceptor, you should not tender such advice which is contrary to the path of virtue. If Visnu himself partakes of oblations or gifts, what can be better than that?' Vamana arrives, is greeted by Bali in reverence, and explains the virtues of gifting lands to Brahmanas with the story of Bhadramati before asking for 'a plot of land measuring three steps'. As Bali takes up a pitcher of water to offer the land, Sukra attempts to obstruct the flow of water to prevent the offering, but Vamana uses the tip of Kusa/Darbha grass to touch the spout of the pitcher and completes it.
'Vishnu, that Soul of the Universe began to grow in size till he reached the abode of Brahma', and taking three steps, pierces the crust of the Cosmic Egg. The water that flows in and washes His feet 'thereby became pure and sanctified the world... It was served as resorted by the seven sages. Then it fell on the top of mount Meru' to become the Ganges. The three worlds are thus return to the Devas, Bali is given Rasatala 'along with all his Asuras', and Vamana goes to a 'forest for performing penance' . Other details include:
  • On the Dvadasi day in the bright half of the month of Asadha, one should fast and worship Vamana, who 'is the bestower of intellect'
  • Chapter 10 details the defeat of the Devas by Bali, where the Asuras also attempt to convince Aditi to stop her penances to Vishnu
  • During the eighth Manvantara thanks 'to the power of the Puja of Vishnu, Bali is remembered as their Indra '
  • 'Bali' is mentioned as a food offering in sacrifices several times throughout
  • Vamana is stated to have been 'installed by all the Devas' at Kotitirtha

Padma Purana

In the Padma Purana, two accounts of the legend of Vamana are given.

First Account

The first is related by the sage Pulastya to Bhishma, which took place 'formerly in the Satya Yuga'. Similar to the legend of Vritra in the Bhagavata Puran, Baskali conquers the devas led by Indra after attaining the boon of invincibility from Brahma, forcing them to ultimately seek Vishnu for refuge. Vishnu agrees to help, and Aditi is pregnant for 1,000 divine years with the Vamana incarnation. It is noted that Aditi 'entertained a malicious design' to destroy the demons during her pregnancy.
At 'the time as ordained, the god, the lord of lords, kind to all beings, of pure and scanty hair, having the beauty of the moon, the conch and the rise, became Aditi's son'. Vamana later travels with Indra to the city of Baskali to request three steps of land. To the amazement of Indra, in the city there 'was no religious merit, no lore, no architecture, no art that did not exist ', and even the Vedas were being recited by 'virtuous demons'. Baskali himself 'was conversant with righteousness, was grateful, truth-speaking, and had his senses controlled'.
Delighted, Baskali compares seeing Indra to sacrifices like the Agnistoma and Rajasuya. Indra praises Baskali and requests three steps of land for the dwarf-brahmin to have a fire-sanctuary to make sacrifices. Baskali praises and surrenders to Vamana as Vishnu who 'has performed a hundred sacrifices endowed with excellent sacrificial fees', adding that Vishnu 'killed Vrtra Namuci'. Although advised by Sukra to gift nothing to Vamana or else face total destruction, Baskali considers himself lucky to be able to surrender to Vishnu and wants to give everything. Indra repeats that only three steps of land are requested, and 'Baskali then gave three steps to the dwarf, after water, saying 'Let Hari himself be pleased with me'.
The first step of Vamana is on the sun, the second is on Dhruva, and the third reaches outside the universe. Water rushing in through the crack in the edge of the universe caused by the tip of Vishnu's toe becomes the river Visnupadi, an auspicious and holy river. Vishnu offers Baskali a boon, and is requested only for increased devotion and a death at His hands in order to enter the realm even 'inaccessible to the ascetics'. Vishnu agrees and promises to kill Baskali when they incarnate and battle as Varaha and Hiranyaksha, respectively. Otherwise, after being deposed, 'Baskali lived happily in the netherworld Indra also protected the three worlds'.

Second account and other details

The second account, narrated by Mahadeva, is much shorter and more typical in nature. In this, Vamana is implored by the devas to visit the sacrifice of Bali to request the three worlds from him. Vamana, this time alone without Indra, is greeted and worshipped by Bali, explains the merit of donating land, and requests three steps, which is granted despite the protests of Sukra. Vamana then 'abandoned his dwarfish form... extending up to fifty crores he seized the earth along with the seas and mountains, along with the oceans, islands, devas, demons and human beings'. As Vishnu places his second and third steps, creating the sacred Ganges in the process, Bali is granted the ability to see his universal 'Janardana-form'. Other details include:
  • The 'three objects' of worldly existence specified by Baskali are Dharma, Artha, and Kama
  • 'Vamana' is listed as one of the hundred names of Vishnu
  • Vamana 'removed, with the auspicious glances, the sin of Bali... lord Vamana, shining in the group of Brahmanas at the head of the sacrifice, adorned with Brahmanic glory
  • Vamana should be worshipped - amongst other devas - during Amalaki Ekadasi
  • In the Hymn called 'Apamarjana', Vamana is assigned to 'the roots of the ears'
  • The 'round and small' salagrama stone is called 'Vamana'
  • Vishnu as Vamana is stated to dwell in Holy places called Kanyakubja and Vamanatirtha
  • Reference is made to a sage called Vamana who, amongst others, served Shiva due to the grace of Ganesha
  • Vamana is listed in the Dashavatara, the ten principle incarnations of Vishnu

Shiva Purana

It seems that the legend of Vamana is only briefly mentioned in the Shiva Purana. The translator, J.L.Shastri, notes in the fourth part that 'Patala is called Balisadman - the abode of Bali. According to a legend God Vishnu in the form of a Brahman dwarf craved from Bali the boon of three steps of ground and having obtained it stepped over heaven and earth in two strides but then out of respect to Bali's devotion and his grandson Prahlada's virtues, he stopped short and left to him Patala, the nether region'. However, Prahlada is actually the grandfather of Bali, not his grandson as incorrectly stated by Shastri. Other details include:
  • Bali conquering the devas led by Indra is a prelude to the legend of the Kurma incarnation, where the Devas and Asuras form a pact to churn of the ocean of milk. Bali is present at the churning where a 'great battle for the possession of Amrta ensued between the devas and the Asuras', and after gaining possession of it, where Vishnu incarnates as Mohini to give the Amrita to the devas
  • Aniruddha sneaks into the residence of Bana to form an alliance with Usa. This legend is repeated in other Puranas such as the Srimad Bhagavatam.
  • The eldest son of Bali, Bana 'became a devotee of Shiva. He was highly respected and intelligent'
  • There is a mountain called Vamana
  • Hiranyaksipu, Hiranyaksa, Virocana 'and Bali worship Shiva every day' ; the exception is Prahlada who does not worship Shiva but instead worships Vishnu
  • Vamana is listed in the Dashavatara, the ten principle incarnations of Vishnu

Skanda Purana

Notably, this above-quoted incident is not mentioned in either of the two legends of Vamana given in the Skanda Purana.

First account

In the first account, after being defeated by the Daityas, the shamed Suras disguise themselves as different animals and go to the hermitage of Kashyapa and Aditi for refuge. Aditi wishes to help the Suras, so on the advice of Kashyapa, she performs the Ekabhakta rite for Vishnu for a year. Pleased with Aditi's holy penance, Janardana, on 'the Dvadasi day which coincided with Sravana constellation the form of a Brahmacarin. He was two-armed and had lotus-like eyes. He had the colour of the flower of Atasi. He was adorned with a garland of sylvan flowers'.
Pondering how to defeat the Daityas, Vamana first orders his gada to kill Bali, but it replies that this is impossible as Bali is 'a great Brahmanya '. His discus and Sarnga bow give the same reply when ordered to kill Bali, too: 'Just as you are Brahmanya, O Vishnu, so is this great Daitya also'. Meanwhile, the Daityas conquer heaven and install Bali on Indra's throne. Bali's previous life as a sinful gambler is recounted, before it is revealed Aditi completed her Vrata - upon which Vamana, 'Aditi's son in the form of a great religious student' appeared - just before Bali's 100th horse-sacrifice.
At the sacred thread ceremony performed by Kashyapa for Vamana, Brahma gives the sacred thread, Soma gives the staff, the Earth gives two sandals, and Bhavani gives alms. Also given a girdle and deer-hide by unknown parties, Vamana proceeds to Bali's next sacrifice. Although Bali is willing to give the Brahmin the whole earth, Vamana requests only three steps of land, before Sukra warns Bali that the religious student is Vishnu in disguise, and in relation to the Kurma incarnation, that Vishnu had previously incarnated as Mohini to take the Amrita away from the Daityas to give to the Suras.
In the next chapter, Bali states that he intends to give whatever is asked as 'Lord Hari, the soul of everyone has come here out of sympathy for me, in order to redeem me'. Sukra curses Bali for ignoring his advice and retreats to a Hermitage. There is no mention of Sukra attempting to block the offering or losing his eye. Vamana takes two steps, the first covering the earth and the second all existence; the water used by Brahma to wash the foot of Vishnu that took the second step produces the Ganges. Vamana returns to His original size, and through Garuda, admonishes and binds Bali for only gifting two steps, not three as promised. Vindhyavali, Bali's wife, sees through this ruse and offers the heads of Bali, her son Bana, and herself for Vishnu to step on. Delighted, Vishnu releases Bali from his bonds, instructs Bali to rule in Sutala, and offers a boon. Bali states 'I do not wish for anything except your lotus-like feet, O Lord'. Vishnu promises to be Bali's gatekeeper forever, and all 'the beggars and mendicants of the three worlds went to Bali. Visnu who stood at the entrance to his abode, granted to them whatever they desired to get'. The account then ends with a eulogy to Shiva, by whose favour 'that Bali became thus'.

Second account and other details

In the second account, after the request of the devas granted a boon by Vishnu, Vamana is born 'as the delighter of Aditi' some time later. At this time Bali was performing 'a hundred horse sacrifices with a desire to take away the kingdom of Indra'. Vamana, singing 'the Mantras of all the four Vedas', arrives at Bali's sacrifice officiated by figures such as Kashyapa and Bhrgu. Announced by the doorkeepers, Vamana is taken by Bali to the centre of the hall, and asked His reason for coming as well as whatever He may desire.
Vamana requests three steps of land. Bali offers much more, but Vamana repeats he wishes for three steps of land. Against the advice of Bhrgu, this is granted by Bali, and 'Hari immediately occupied the cosmos. The entire region of earth including mountains, forests and jungles was covered by two and a half '. Having conquered the Asuras, Vamana gives the three worlds back to Satakratu and returns to earth. The remainder of the chapter concerns the merits of the Vamana Tirtha related to this legend. Other details include:
  • The city of Bali in Patala is called Bhogavati
  • The 12-month Jyesthapancaka Vrata to Vishnu is described in detail, including mention of Vamana
  • Bali requests from Vamana that if 'people offer lamps to Naraka on the fourteenth day, all their forefathers shall cease to be in Naraka'
  • In the procedure for Puja Mandala Construction for Vishnu worship, Vamana, along with the Gautama Buddha, should be installed at 'the front of the eastern filament... both of them dark as a cloud, compassionate, quiescent, celibate, wearing sacred thread and white garments, holding a full bloomed lotus in the right hand, the left hand indicating Abhaya by its position'
  • When the murti of Vamana is installed in the house 'he makes people prosperous'
  • Vamana is listed in the Dashavatara, the ten principle incarnations of Vishnu
  • Bali is to take the position of Indra during the reign of the eighth Manu

Vamana Purana

There are two main accounts of the legend of Vamana in the Vamana Purana. At least 18 chapters relate directly to Vamana and events or characters relating to the legend. H.H. Wilson summarises the legend of Vamana in this Purana as 'the birth of Krishna as a dwarf, for the purpose of humiliating Bali by fraud, as he was invincible by force. The story is told as usual; but the scene is laid at Kurukshetra'. This somewhat curt summation is fundamentally inaccurate and misleading since Bali is neither humiliated nor defrauded. As a general rule, Bali is a noble-souled and religious character fully aware of exactly who Vamana is and who knowingly grants three footsteps of land in spite of being warned of the consequences. This is the case in both accounts contained in the Vamana Purana, where far from being 'humiliated', Bali is installed as ruler of the netherworlds and is promised the post of Indra.

First account

The first account is remarkably similar to that of the Matsya Purana, and consists of 9 chapters. It begins with the coronation of Bali as the King after defeating Indra. Noble and religious, Bali is congratulated for his victory and blessed by Sri. Meanwhile, Indra returns to his mother, Aditi, who states Bali can only be defeated by Vishnu. Aditi and the devas go to Kashyapa, 'the creator of beings, the Supreme Master of the entire progeny' who then takes them to Brahmaloka, the celestial abode of Brahma.
Brahma informs the devas that the three worlds will be delivered by 'Him who is the Lord of all the worlds, the eternal master of the universe, and the First born they call the Primordial First Deity. Even the devas do not know who the Great One is'. From there the devas travel to 'the northern bank of the Ksiroda Ocean, in the northern direction, where the Creator of the universe is present... the region known as Amrta'. There, knowing 'Lord Narayana, the thousand-eyed god' could only be realised through spiritual union, practiced holy vows and recited the Vedas for 1,000 years. Kashyapa also eulogises Vishnu by reciting many of His names, including 'Devadeva' and 'Prasitara' and states the importance of sacrifice.
Narayana agrees to the request of Kashyapa to 'be born as the younger brother of Indra, the promoter of the happiness of the relatives, and the dear son of Aditi'. Returning to the Hermitage of Kashyapa, Aditi then performs penances for 10,000 years. Pleased with her penance Vishnu appears, agrees to Aditi's wish to restore her son Indra to power, and becomes conceived in the womb. After the demons lose their lustre, Bali enquiries from his grandfather and Devotee of Vishnu, Prahlada, what the reason is. Meditating on Hari, Prahlada has a vision of Vamana and informs Bali, who scoffs and is consequently cursed as for his disrespect towards 'the all-pervasive, supreme spirit'. Bali apologises, is forgiven by Prahlada, and accepts he will lose his kingdom as a result of the curse. Meanwhile, Vamana is born to Aditi after 10 months of pregnancy. Brahma performs the Jatakarma ceremony and other rites before gifting a black deer skin, Brhaspati the sacred thread, Marici the Asadha staff, Vasistha a Kamandalu, Angiras a silken cloth, and so on. The dwarf then proceeds slowly to the sacrifice of Bali, His footsteps leaving hollows in the earth.
Bali is warned by Sukra about the arrival of Vamana, and advised to refuse any request made. Bali responds that he could not refuse the Lord of Sacrifices even if he wanted to, and considers himself very fortunate the Lord is arriving to his Yajna personally. Bali offers Vamana 'a gift of anything that belongs to me' and Vishnu requests 'three strides for a Fire Sanctuary '. Bali agrees and as 'soon as water fell in his palm the Dwarf assumed non-dwarfish dimensions and showed instantly his form, comprehending all devas'. In three steps Vamana regains the three worlds which are returned to Indra, while Bali is promised to become Indra on 'the expiry of the Vaivasvata period' ; until then, he is to rule in Sutala, 'crowded with hundreds of palaces and provided with comforts necessary for devas'. The remainder of the chapter concerns the importance of sacrifices, and the merits achieved by Bali though improper practices of others, such as 'sacrifices performed without faith'.

Second account

The second account - excluding chapters not directly related to the legend, such as Bali conquering the devas beforehand and the pilgrimage of Prahlada after cursing Bali - consists of at least 5 chapters. In this, Indra travels to Brahmaloka to confer with Brahma and Kashyapa, where he is told that he lost his Kingdom due to his sin of attempting to destroy the fetus of Diti, another wife of Kashyapa and mother of the Daityas. Indra performs penances, of which he tells his mother, Aditi. Aditi in turn performs penances, and pleased, Vishnu agrees to be born as her son to restore Indra to power. Similar the first account, Bali is warned about the birth of Vamana and cursed after failing to take the threat seriously, albeit this time by his grandfather Prahlada, who then goes on a pilgrimage.
Vamana is born, and eulogised by Brahma who performs the Upanayana and Jatakarma ceremonies and others. Pulaha gives the sacred thread to Vamana, Pulastya two white garments, Agastya a deer skin, Bharadvaja a girdle, Marici a staff, Vasistha rosary beads, Angiras a broom of Kusa grass, King Raghu an umbrella, Nrga a pair of shoes, Brhaspati a water-jar, and so on. Vamana states 'I will go to Kuruksetra which confers great prosperity. There the sacred Asvamedha Sacrifice of the king of demons is going on'.
Sukra advises Bali not to give anything to Vamana. This advice is rejected by Bali, who relates the story of Nisakara 'the son of Kosakara, which took place on the Malaya Mountain in olden days'. It is similar to the legend of Bharat, insofar as it concerns a person that having remembered their previous births, pretended to be mentally-handicapped, and suffered mistreatment by others as a result, in order to 'no longer commit terrible sins with my mind, actions and speech'. Vamana arrives at the sacrifice of Bali and requests three steps of land. Bali offers much more but Vamana again repeats 'Give me three steps; I do ask for this much only'. Bali agrees, and just 'as the water fell on the hand he assumed a divine, multifarious, world-embracing form for the purpose of pervading the three worlds'. In two steps, Vamana covers all existence and creates the Ganges. Vamana then tells Bali he must 'supply my step or accept captivity'. Bali's son, Bana, sees through the ruse and points out Vishnu could traverse all of existence in a single step despite being in the small form of a dwarf.
Vishnu responds that His three steps were also for the benefit of Bali, and to the King directly, says, 'O King, till my honorarium is paid, you go and live free from diseases in the subterranean region called Sutala which is highly beneficial'. As in the first account, Vishnu also states that improper sacrifices will also benefit Bali while resident in the netherworld, in addition to other sacred rituals such as Dvara-pratipada. Then, 'having restored heaven to Indra, and enabling the devas to enjoy their shares in sacrifices, the omnipotent Lord of the universe disappeared'.

Varaha Purana

In the Varaha Purana, it seems that the legend of Vamana is only briefly mentioned, as quoted above. Other details include:
  • Vamana is one of the 10 primary incarnations of Vishnu
  • In 'the month of Caitra, Visnu should be worshipped on Dvadasi day after due fasting. The feet should be worshipped as Vamana'
  • Worship of Vamana removes 'all stupefaction'
  • It is said that the 'only means for redemption for those who are ignorant and indifferent to dharma and do not have compassion or give gifts, is to perform worship and sacrifice to Lord Vamana at the confluence at Mathura when the star Sravana is in combination with Dvadasi in the month of Bhadrapada'

Vayu Purana

In the Vayu Purana, the legend of Vamana is briefly recounted in the second part, an excerpt of which is quoted above. A simplified version of the legend, after Vamana takes back the three worlds from the Asuras, 'he forced them to retreat to the bottom of the nether-world along with their sons and grandsons. Namuci, Sambara and Prahlada. The cruel Danavas were killed'. Bali is also stated to have been 'bound with great nooses along with his kinsmen, friends, and followers'.
The previous two incarnations of Vishnu prior to Vamana are stated to be Varaha and Narasimha. Notably, deviating from incarnations typically listed, the fourth listed is Dattatreya, the fifth is Mandhatr, the sixth is Parashurama, and the seventh is Ram. Other incarnations following Rama have not been listed here. Other details include:
  • The sons of Bali 'established the disciplines of four castes on this earth'
  • There are two different Balis. The first is Mahabali, the rival of Indra conquered by Vishnu/Vamana in three steps. The second is 'another East Indian King who being childless requested thus to Dirghatamas'. The anonymous translator notes that the Vayu Puran seems to mix-up or confuse these two Balis in chapter 37
  • It is stated that 'He who was formerly Bali, the son of Virocana, will become their Indra'
  • It is stated that a son of Bali, Cakravarma, will be incarnated as Karn, one of the main villains of the Mahabharata

Vishnu Purana

It seems that the legend of Vamana is only briefly mentioned in the Vishnu Purana. According to the notes of the translator, H.H. Wilson, 'Fuller details occur in the Bhagavata Purana, Kurma, Matsya, and Vamana Purana'. However, it is stated in the above quotation that Vamana had a wife called Padma or Kamala, an incarnation of His eternal consort Lakshmi. The only other mention of a wife is made in the Bhagavata Purana, whose name was Kirti.

Sangam Literature

Several texts of the Tamil Sangam literature such as Mullaippāṭṭu and Perumpāṇāṟṟuppaṭai mention Vishnu's incarnation of Vamana, addressed as Trivikrama, referring to his act of spanning the Earth.

Festivals

BaliPāḍyami

Balipaadyami or Balipratipada is an ancient festival observed during the five days of Diwali that amongst other things commemorates the Bali-Vamana legend. The legend signifies devotion, goodwill and generosity.

Onam

In one version of the Vamana legend, when Mahabali offered himself for Vishnu's third step, it was an act of Mahabali's devotion. Vishnu granted him a boon. Mahabali chose to revisit earth, once every year, the lands and people he previously ruled. This revisit marks the festival of Onam, as reminder of the virtuous rule and his humility in keeping his promise before Vishnu.
A simpler form of this legend, one without Mahabali, is found in the Rigveda and the Vedic text Shatapatha Brahmana where a solar deity is described with powers of Vishnu. This story likely grew over time, and is in part allegorical, where Bali is a metaphor for thanksgiving offering after a bounty of rice harvest during monsoon, and Vishnu is the metaphor of the Kerala Sun and summer that precedes the Onam. The story of Mahabali is important to Onam in Kerala, but similar Mahabali legends are significant in the region of Balia in Uttar Pradesh, Bawan also in the same state, Bharuch in Gujarat, and Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra. The story is significant not because Mahabali's rule ended, but it emphasizes the Hindu belief in cyclical nature of events, that no individual, no ruler and nothing lasts forever, except the virtues and self understanding that overcomes all sorrow.

Iconography

Vamana iconography varies by region. Three icons are common, one shows his left foot raised above his knee, the second shows his foot above his navel, and the third shows it raised above the forehead. These icons respectively symbolize the three worlds – netherworld, earth and heaven – Vamana covered as Trivikrama.

Temples

The Vamana iconography and images are found in many Vaishnava temples. Some Vamana temples include: