Dashakam 085 Jarasandha & Sishupala vadam

In Narayaneeyam, specifically in Dasakam 85, the story of Shishupala is vividly narrated. During the Rajasuya Yagna conducted by Yudhishthira, it was decided on the advice of Sahadeva that Lord Krishna should receive the primary worship. This decision angered Shishupala, the King of Chedi, who could not tolerate Krishna being honored as the foremost among great sages and kings. He insulted Krishna bitterly before the assembly and challenged the worship being offered to a mere cowherd boy despite his divine stature.

Shishupala then violently attacked the kings supporting Krishna. Though the Pandavas rushed to defend Krishna, it was Lord Krishna himself who intervened and decisively beheaded Shishupala with his Sudarshana Chakra—a divine discus typically used to destroy enemies of dharma like demons. Krishna had previously promised to forgive up to a hundred sins of Shishupala, but with this final act, Shishupala exceeded that limit and met his end.

Interestingly, even in death, Shishupala’s intense, focused thoughts of Krishna throughout his three past births (as Hiranyakashipu, Ravana, and Shishupala himself) purified him and led to his ultimate liberation or Moksha—a union with the Lord that few attain, even among the greatest yogis. The story reflects both Shishupala's intense hostility and his eventual salvation through Krishna’s grace.

The episode also describes the continuation of the Yagna, the victorious celebrations, and Krishna's role as a divine protector and supporter of dharma during this great event

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