The Tale of Atapi and Vatapi: The Demonic Tricksters and the Wisdom of Sage Agastya

In ancient times, there lived two demon brothers named Atapi and Vatapi, known for their cunning and evil trickery. These brothers devised a sinister method to kill and consume travelers, sages, and unsuspecting villagers who crossed their path. Their trick involved a deadly ritual of hospitality, where one brother would transform into food, and the other would bring him back to life after the unsuspecting guest had consumed him.

Atapi and Vatapi would roam the land in search of victims, inviting them to dine with the promise of a delicious feast. Vatapi, the younger brother, had the ability to transform himself into any kind of food, while Atapi had the power to call him back to life by chanting his name. The plan was simple but cruel: Vatapi would disguise himself as food, and after the guest had eaten, Atapi would call out, “Vatapi, come out!” Upon hearing the call, Vatapi would tear his way out from within the guest, killing them and allowing the brothers to feast on their flesh.

This wicked scheme allowed them to terrorize the land for a long time, leaving a trail of innocent victims. Many had fallen prey to the brothers’ hospitality, for they were skilled in disguise and cunning in speech.

One day, the renowned Sage Agastya, known for his wisdom and spiritual strength, happened to pass through the region. The brothers, intrigued by the opportunity to ensnare such a powerful sage, extended their usual invitation. “O revered sage,” they said with honeyed words, “please honor us by accepting our humble offering of food.”

Agastya, wise and perceptive, saw through their deceitful smiles. However, he decided to accept the invitation, knowing he had the strength to confront their wickedness. Vatapi transformed himself into a sumptuous meal, and Agastya calmly ate it without hesitation, fully aware of the brothers’ deadly plan.

After the meal, Atapi waited for the right moment and then chanted, “Vatapi, come out!” expecting his brother to burst forth from Agastya’s stomach and resume his demonic form. But Agastya, anticipating this, placed his hand on his stomach and muttered a powerful mantra, digesting Vatapi entirely with his spiritual energy.

Realizing that his brother had been outwitted and was truly gone, Atapi was filled with rage and despair. Furious at his loss, he attempted to attack Sage Agastya. But Agastya, wielding his divine powers, easily overpowered Atapi and destroyed him with a single glance. Thus, both brothers met their end through Agastya’s wisdom and spiritual strength.

With the demon brothers gone, peace was restored to the region. Travelers and sages could once again roam safely, free from the brothers’ deadly tricks. Sage Agastya’s wisdom and strength became legendary, and the story of his victory over Atapi and Vatapi spread far and wide.

Moral of the Tale: Deception and treachery may offer short-term gains, but they cannot stand against true wisdom and righteousness. The wise and virtuous see through deception and turn the schemes of the wicked against them. Evil intentions ultimately lead to one’s own downfall, while goodness and intelligence prevail.