Brahmanda Purana – Madhya Bhaga (Bhargava Charitam)

The Bhargava Charitam is a significant section in the Brahmanda Purana, particularly within its Madhya Bhaga (middle part). This part of the Purana extensively narrates the life and deeds of Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, renowned for his role as a warrior-sage and his mission to restore dharma by eliminating the corrupt Kshatriya rulers. The Bhargava Charitam delves into his origins, his divine mission, and his formidable exploits.

Parashurama, born to the sage Jamadagni and Renuka, belongs to the lineage of Bhrigu, hence the name Bhargava. His birth itself was extraordinary, with Vishnu incarnating as Parashurama to address the tyranny and adharma that had plagued the world due to the Kshatriya kings. The narrative recounts his rigorous training in martial arts and weaponry, granted by his father, and his deep devotion to Shiva, from whom he received the divine axe (Parashu).

The most notable story within the Bhargava Charitam is Parashurama’s vow to exterminate the Kshatriya class 21 times. This vow stemmed from the murder of his father, Jamadagni, by the Kshatriya king Kartavirya Arjuna and his sons. Enraged by this heinous act, Parashurama embarked on a relentless campaign, wielding his axe and purging the earth of oppressive rulers. These stories underscore themes of retribution, the restoration of righteousness, and the cyclical nature of time and morality in Hindu philosophy.

Additionally, the Bhargava Charitam also explores Parashurama’s later life, his penance, and his encounters with other significant figures including Rama and Bhishma. His role as a mentor to Bhishma and Karna in the Mahabharata further cements his importance as a warrior and a teacher, bridging the narratives of various Hindu epics and Puranas.

Overall, the Bhargava Charitam in the Brahmanda Purana’s Madhya Bhaga provides a comprehensive account of Parashurama’s life, highlighting his divine purpose, his unwavering commitment to dharma and his enduring legacy.