Once on the day of Shivaratri, Nanda went to Ambika forest. Balrama, Krishna and other gopas also accompanied him. In the forest, they worshipped Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati at night. They were tired after the worship. So, they slept at an open place outside a temple. While they were asleep, a big snake came crawling towards them. He started swallowing Nanda from his legs. Feeling pain, Nanda started screaming loudly. Hearing his screams, everyone woke up. The gopas started to beat the snake using firelights. The snake’s body got burnt at many places but he still did not leave Nanda. So, Krishna came running to help his father. He kicked the snake hard. As soon as his foot touched the snake’s body, a heavenly figure emerged from it. He told that he had been cursed to change into an ugly snake, by a sage because he had made fun of his ugliness. Now, he was freed from the curse due to the touch of the Lord’s foot. He expressed his thanks to Lord Krishna. After seeking his blessings, he returned to heaven. Nanda praised his son Krishna. His heart was filled with gratitude for Krishna and he lovingly hugged him.
KRISHNA AND THE ACCURSED SNAKE
