Long ago, King Bhagiratha of the Ikshvaku dynasty ruled the earth. One day, a demon named Halahal emerged from the netherworld and appeared before the people. He tempted them with the promise of comfort, wealth, and power, and they fell into his trap without realizing it.
Halahal bestowed lightning upon humankind but poisoned the air. Thousands grew sick from the toxic fumes, and multitudes perished. Seeing his people suffer, Bhagiratha resolved to defeat the demon, yet all his celestial weapons proved useless against Halahal’s dark might.
At last, Bhagiratha turned to the god of the sun, offering unwavering devotion. Pleased by his worship, the sun god granted him a radiant solar disc. With this divine weapon, Bhagiratha cleansed the poisoned air and vanquished Halahal, who fled back into the depths of the netherworld, subdued once more.
