Dashakam 17 Dhruva & His Pennance

This episode signifies the story of Dhruva, the son of King Uttanapada, who through intense devotion and penance attains the grace of Lord Narayana. The chapter describes how Dhruva, feeling neglected by his father's favoritism towards his stepbrother Uttama and his stepmother Suruchi, finds refuge in the Lord. Guided by Sage Narada, Dhruva undertakes rigorous tapas (penance) in Madhuvanam.

Pleased by Dhruva's devotion, Lord Narayana appears before him, blesses him, and grants him the boon of a prosperous and long reign, culminating in Dhruva attaining the eternal celestial position known as Dhruvapada. The story underlines themes of devotion, divine grace, perseverance, and spiritual enlightenment along with the vindication of dharma.

Thus, Dashakam 17 emphasizes the power of steadfast devotion (bhakti) and penance in overcoming adversity and securing divine blessings, illustrating Lord Narayana's benevolence and direct intervention in the lives of his devotees