The Maruts
Skandha VI. Chap. 18-19
Diti was very much grieved by the loss of her sons, caused by Indra. She ardently wished to have a son who could kill Indra. With this object, she served Kasyapa with all her heart and pleased him much. Kasyapa offered to give her any boon, and she prayed for an immortal son that would kill Indra. Sorely perplexed in mind, the Rishi thought within himself of a device. He said “I grant you the boon, but you shall have to observe Punsavana Vrata for one full year.” This is a Vaisnava Vrata, the performance of which requires absolute purity of body and mind. Kasyapa related the details to his wife, (for which refer to the original). His object was to give an immortal son to Diti and to purify her mind by this Vrata, so that she might cast, off all enmity against Indra. He also thought it possible that his wife might not observe the strict rules for such a long time. Diti however accepted the conditions, and she bore a son. Indra became very much frightened, and he closely watched his step mother to discover a breach of the rules. He followed and served Diti always and tried to please her. One day Diti became very much tired, and she fell asleep after eating before she could wash her hands, mouth and feet. Finding this opportunity, Indra, by his Yogic powers entered the womb and split the child into 7 parts. The Maruts wept and requested their half-brother not to kill them. Indra consoled them saying that they need have no fear from him, and he would make them his companions. He then split each of the seven into as many parts again. By the favour of Vishnu, the Maruts were not destroyed, but came out all alive from the womb of Diti. It was a little short of one year still. Indra made them drinkers of Sōma and his chief companions. Diti woke up, and she was astonished to find 49 sons by her. “Tell me Indra if thou knowest” said she, “how is it I have these 49 sons instead of one. Pray do not conceal any thing.” Indra gave the whole story to Diti and expressed great repentance. He assured Diti that the Maruts would be his best companions. Diti’s mind had been purified, and she allowed her sons to become Devas. Thus the Maruts, though born as Daityas, became immortal Devas. (Marut Vayu air. Vayu corresponds to the sense of touch and to vital energy).