Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 69
Diti’s Puṁsavana Vow, Indra’s Intervention, and the Birth of the Maruts
अथेन्द्रमाह ताताहमादित्यानां भयावहम् । अपत्यमिच्छन्त्यचरं व्रतमेतत्सुदुष्करम् ॥ ६९ ॥
athendram āha tātāham ādityānāṁ bhayāvaham apatyam icchanty acaraṁ vratam etat suduṣkaram
Então Diti disse a Indra: Meu filho, eu era motivo de temor para os Ādityas. Observei este voto extremamente difícil apenas por desejar um filho que matasse vocês, os doze Ādityas.
FAQs
This verse shows that a sincere and difficult vow—especially celibacy and sense-restraint—creates formidable spiritual potency, so much so that even the Ādityas become fearful of its results.
In the narrative, Indra serves Diti respectfully during her vow; acknowledging that dharmic service, she addresses him affectionately as “tāta,” even while admitting her intent to produce a child who would threaten the Ādityas.
By adopting disciplined sense-control—faithfully keeping one’s commitments, avoiding impulsive indulgence, and channeling energy into prayer and purposeful work—one gains clarity, strength, and steadiness in spiritual practice.