Vatapi and the Sage’s Wisdom

In a secluded forest, two demon brothers, Vatapi and Atapi, devised a cunning plan to lure travelers and sages. Atapi, the elder, would invite them to a feast, while Vatapi, using his magical powers, transformed himself into delicious food. Unsuspecting sages would partake in the meal, consuming Vatapi, only for him to regenerate inside them and burst out, causing their demise. Together, the brothers terrorized many travelers with this wicked scheme.

One day, Sage Agastya, renowned for his wisdom and power, came upon the brothers. Eager to trap such a powerful sage, Atapi invited him to a grand feast. Knowing their deceitful ways, Agastya accepted the invitation but remained vigilant. As he sat down to eat, he sensed the brothers’ dark magic and discerned their cruel plan.

When Agastya finished his meal, he placed his hand over his stomach and uttered a powerful incantation: “Vatapi, be digested!” His immense spiritual power dissolved Vatapi forever, preventing him from regenerating. Atapi, horrified, realized that his evil scheme had come to an end. Agastya’s wisdom and power had put a final stop to the brothers’ reign of terror, restoring peace to the forest.

Moral:
The tale of Vatapi and Atapi teaches us that cleverness used for evil will ultimately lead to destruction. True wisdom, like Sage Agastya’s, sees through deception and can overcome even the darkest schemes. This story reminds us to be vigilant and discerning, as knowledge and insight are the best defenses against those who seek to deceive.