Dashakam 058 Protection from Agni

Dashakam 58 in Narayaneeyam is important because it describes Lord Krishna saving the cows (gopas) and the people of Gokula from a dangerous forest fire. During Krishna’s playful activities and the slaying of the demon Pralambasura (in the previous Dashakam), the cows wandered off into the forest called Aishika, outside the safety of Vrindavan. There, affected by the heat and separation from Krishna, the cows succumbed to thirst and distress.

Krishna, along with his companions, searched for the lost cows and found them trapped in a rapidly spreading forest fire. Demonstrating his divine power, Krishna instructed the gopas to close their eyes, and upon reopening them, they found themselves safely transported back to the Bhandeera forest, away from danger.

This Dashakam not only illustrates Krishna’s role as a protector and savior but also highlights his miraculous ability to rescue devotees from physical and metaphorical dangers, symbolizing divine grace and comfort in times of crisis. It also includes descriptions of the changing seasons in Vrindavan, enriching the setting of Krishna’s divine play.

Thus, Dashakam 58 is significant for showing Krishna’s compassion and protective power in safeguarding his devotees from peril, reinforcing the themes of divine intervention and refuge central to Narayaneeyam.

Namaskarams and Dhanyavadaha to Smt Savithri Ramesh and Smt Asha Murarka for their help.