Vishnu took the form of a mortal, Rama to combat with Ravana, the ten headed demon king. Ravana had been blessed with the boon that no God could kill or harm him. He had overpowered all the Gods. There was fear all around and he had abducted Sita, Rama’s wife. Sita was an incarnation of Lakshmi.

To understand the wickedness of Ravana, I will share the details with you. He reduced the Gods to being his slaves. Surya served as the door keeper. Chandrama (Moon) held his umbrella. Varuna (God of Rain and all water bodies) supplied the water. Pawan (the Wind God) was sweeping the palace. Agni (Fire) worked as the cook. Indra (Supreme ruler of the heavens) was made the gardener. Yama (God of Death) was the gate keeper. Martanda (Another name for Surya) was the barber.

Ganesha looked after the donkeys. Mars, Mercury and the other planets became the steps to his throne. The Goddesses Shasti (Protector of women, children and nature) and Katyana (fierce form of Durga) I looked after his children. He had conquered Kubera (God of wealth), and had shaken Mansarover. The wives of the Gods became maid servants. Last but not least he had Brahma recite the daily Panchanga (almanac which determines what activities are auspicious and what are inauspicious)

Just close your eyes and visualize these super powerful Gods and Goddesses performing menial jobs.

Aim Hrim Klim

Picture by Ekabhishek – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link