In the Hindu tradition, there are certain extraordinary beings known as Chiranjeevi, which means ‘immortal’ or ‘long-lived’. Of these, the Sapta Chiranjeevi are particularly important – these are seven individuals who are believed to live until the end of the current age, known as Kali Yuga. It is interesting to consider that even in this current time, many believe that these seven brave, wise and truly amazing individuals exist somewhere in our world. Let’s explore the identities and stories of these seven immortals and take a deeper look at why it is so interesting to imagine that they may still exist among us.
Sapta Chiranjeevi Shloka and Meaning
“अश्वत्थामा बलिर्व्यासो हनुमांश्च विभीषण:। कृप: परशुरामश्च सप्तैतै चिरञ्जीविन:॥”
Meaning: It is said in the mantra that – Ashwatthama, Bali, Vyas, Hanuman, Vibhishan, Kripacharya and Parashuram are the seven immortals.
Are there any others besides these seven immortal beings?
Living Legends of Kali Yuga: The Sapta Chiranjeevi
1. Ashwatthama
2. King Mahabali
King Mahabali, revered as one of the Sapta Chiranjeevis, was a benevolent Asura king who once ruled Kerala with unparalleled fairness and prosperity. A grandson of the devout Prahlada, his reign was considered a golden age where equality and happiness prevailed. However, his growing power worried the Devas, leading them to seek Vishnu’s intervention. Vishnu, in his Vamana avatar, humbly requested three paces of land, which then expanded to cover the heavens and earth. Out of devotion, Mahabali offered his own head for the final step, leading to his descent to the netherworld (Patala). Pleased with his righteousness, Vishnu granted him the boon to visit his kingdom annually, a homecoming celebrated as the vibrant festival of Onam in Kerala.
3. Veda Vyasa
Ved Vyasa, also known as Krishna Dwaipayana, is a pivotal figure in Hindu tradition, revered as the compiler of the Vedas, the writer of the epic Mahabharata, the Puranas, and the Brahma Sutras. His very name, “Vyasa,” signifies “arranger” or “compiler,” reflecting his monumental work in organizing the vast body of Vedic knowledge. He is considered one of the sapta Chiranjeevi (immortals). The Mahabharata, attributed to him, narrates the epic Kurukshetra War and delves into profound philosophical and ethical teachings, including the Bhagavad Gita. Vyasa’s wisdom and literary contributions have profoundly shaped Indian culture and spirituality, making him an eternally respected sage.
4. Hanuman
Lord Hanuman, a central figure in the Ramayana, is revered as the epitome of devotion, strength, and selfless service. Born to Anjana and Kesari, he is the Vayuputra (son of the wind god). His unwavering loyalty to Lord Rama is legendary, famously demonstrated through his pivotal role in the search for Sita and the battle against Ravana. Endowed with immense power and intellect, Hanuman is a symbol of courage, humility, and dedication. He is also considered one of the sapta Chiranjeevi, destined to live eternally. His tales of bravery and devotion continue to inspire millions, making him a beloved deity across India.
5. Vibhishana
Vibhishana, the younger brother of the Lankan king Ravana, stands out in the Ramayana for his unwavering righteousness and devotion to dharma. Despite being born into a Rakshasa lineage, he possessed a noble character and wisdom. He consistently advised Ravana to return Sita to Rama, but his pleas were ignored. Ultimately, Vibhishana chose to side with Rama, recognizing the path of justice. His knowledge of Lanka’s secrets proved invaluable to Rama’s army. After Ravana’s defeat, Rama crowned Vibhishana the king of Lanka. He is remembered for his piety and for choosing righteousness even amidst familial conflict, embodying the triumph of good over evil within his own family.
6. Kripacharya
Kripacharya, or Kripa, was a revered royal preceptor in the Mahabharata, alongside his brother Drona. Born miraculously, he was adopted and raised by King Shantanu. Kripa became a respected teacher to the princes of both the Kuru and Pandava lineages, instructing them in martial arts and statecraft. He was known for his impartiality and adherence to dharma. Unlike Drona, Kripa survived the Kurukshetra War and was one of the few Kauravas to do so. He later became a teacher to Parikshit, Arjuna’s grandson. Kripacharya is also considered one of the sapta Chiranjeevi, destined for a long lifespan. He represents wisdom, duty, and longevity within the epic.
7. Parashurama
Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, is a legendary sage-warrior renowned for his fierce nature and mastery of weaponry, particularly his axe (parashu), hence his name. Born a Brahmin, he displayed extraordinary martial prowess and a strong sense of justice. He is famously known for ridding the earth of tyrannical Kshatriyas multiple times. Despite his warrior spirit, Parashurama was also a learned scholar and guru, notably teaching archery to Bhishma, Drona, and Karna. He is one of the seven Chiranjeevis, destined to live eternally. His story embodies a potent blend of Brahminical wisdom and Kshatriya might, often invoked in tales of righteous anger and divine intervention.
Beyond the Sapta Chiranjeevi: The Eighth Immortal?
Sometimes Mārkaṇḍeya is also included in the list of immortals, making their number eight, though the specific verse mentions only seven.
“अश्वत्थामा बलिर्व्यासो हनुमांश्च विभीषण:। कृप: परशुरामश्च सप्तैतै चिरञ्जीविन:॥
सप्तैतान् संस्मरेन्नित्यं मार्कण्डेयमथाष्टमम्। जीवेद्वर्षशतं सोपि सर्वव्याधिविवर्जितः॥”
Meaning: Ashwatthama, Bali, Vyas, Hanuman, Vibhishan, Kripacharya and Parashuram are the seven immortals. These seven should be remembered daily, then the eighth Markandeya should be remembered. Whoever does this will be free from all diseases and live for a hundred years.
8. Markandeya
Markandeya is a revered sage in Hindu mythology, uniquely blessed with near-immortality. Devoted to Shiva and Vishnu, his story highlights the triumph over death. When destined to die at sixteen, his intense devotion pleased Yama, the god of death, who could not take him. Markandeya is celebrated for his wisdom and the Markandeya Purana is attributed to him, containing profound philosophical and spiritual insights, including the Devi Mahatmya. He embodies unwavering faith and the power of devotion to transcend mortal limitations.
Conclusion
The tales of the Sapta Chiranjeevi provide a wonderful introduction to the eternal ideals of Hinduism. The stories of seven extraordinary individuals like Ashwatthama, Bali, Vyasa, Hanuman, Vibhishana, Kripa and Parashurama reflect the eternal values of valour, wisdom and devotion. Whether we consider them immortal literally or only symbolically, these stories remind us of the cycle of time and the immortality of good virtues. The belief of their presence even in Kali Yuga is a testimony to the depth of the Hindu faith and the power of mythology. Their mystical stories inspire us and make us wonder if they are still present among us today, adding even more depth to the rich heritage of Hindu culture.
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