Another very
interesting legend connected with Totadri runs as follows: -
At one time Mahishmati, mother of the Asuras, was very much grieved at the annihilation of
th e race of the demons. To regenerate the race ’she started austere penance invoking
Brahma the Creator. Brahma was pleased with her penance, and granted her boon that she
would have two sons who would be unconquerable. Accordingly, in due course, two sons,
Sunda and Upasunda by name, were born to her. In course of time when they grew up, their
thread ceremony was performed and among the others, Sukracharya, the spiritual preceptor
of the race of demons, was also present. The two
sons became very powerful and, conquered all the worlds as a result of the boons obtained
by their mother. In the course of conquest Swarga Loka also was conquered by them. To cry
halt to their ever-expanding conquest, Brahma deputed the celestial dancer Tilottama to
divert the mind of the two demons so that their future con quests might be stopped. The
heavenly dancer took up the task and per formed it skilfully. Her enchanting beauty,
seductive looks and graceful dancing with music captured the heart and mind of the two
brothers. |
