(Bhagavatham 5.4.1 – 5.4.7)

Rishabha’s story

King Nabhi’s joy knew no bounds as his son Rishabha was born with all the resemblances of the Lord.

Rishabha as the name suggested the ‘bearer of Godly virtues’ won all hearts alike – devoid of ‘I’ness and ‘My’ness and desires, unshakeable peace, dispassion, abundance and grace He became the beloved of all alike.

He had proved His power by showering rains when Lord Indra blocked it in this country.

All the country men irrespective of their position in society loved Him. Knowing this, King Nabhi enthroned Rishabha and wooed ‘Vanaprastha’ along with his wife Merudevi and went to Badari Ashramam for penance.

It is worth noting that Nabhi was incomparable in devotion and hence the Saints prayed to Bhagavan to bless him with a divine son like Rishabha.

Note – Isn’t it interesting to note what made Rishabha a beloved for His country? A ruler must be eligible to sit in his position and nothing can make him eligible other than his people’s will.