Rugmangada Charitham
The Story of King Rugmangada & Mohini
King Rugmangada, a devotee of God Vishnu, strictly observed the Ekadasi fasting considered sacred. He accumulated so much merit that the gods became jealous and decided to test Rugmangada’s devotion. They depute the celestial enchantress, Mohini, to him. Besotted by her charm, the King requests Mohini to stay with him as his paramour. Mohini agrees on only one condition as long as he grants all her wishes and promises not to come against them.
One day King Rukmangada resists her. Mohini reminds him of his promise and agrees to release the King from his pledge only if he beheads his son, Dharmangadan. After many dilemmas, Rugmangada decides to slay his son rather than stop his prayers. As the King raises his sword to behead his son, Lord Vishnu stops the sword, recognizing the King’s devotion to him. The story tells about the significant blessings showered to devotees of Vishnu who observed the Ekadasi fast.
