72 - Devasthana and other Holy Centres

Brahma said: 

1. The holy centre well known as Devasthāna is reputed in all the three worlds. I shall describe its efficacy. Listen attentively, O Narada. 

2-4. Formerly in the beginning of the Kộta Age a battle between Devas and Dänavas ensued. There was a Daitya beauty well known as Simhika. The extremely powerful Daitya named Rāhu was her son. At the time of churning the milk ocean and the production of Nectar Saimhikeya (i.e. Rahu) was cut into two. His son was a great Daitya well known as Meghahāsa. On hearing about the murderous attack on his father he became extremely dejected and he performed a penance. 

5. As the son of Rāhu was performing penance after resorting to the banks of Gautami, Devas and sages spoke to him as though they were afraid.

Devas and sages said: 

6. O mighty-armed one, cut short your penance. Let everything that is within your mind be realized by the grace of Siva and Ganga. What is it that cannot be obtained by the grace of Siva and Gangā?

Meghahāsa said: 

7-8. My father who is worthy of worship, who is my deity, has been insulted and harassed by you. If he and I are adequately propitiated by you, I shall refrain from this penance and (my) enmity (towards you). Taking proper revenge on behalf of father is the duty of a son. If you all grant my request my desires are fulfilled. Brahmā said: 

9. Then all Devas made Råhu a follower of planets. They made Meghahāsa honoured and worshipped by the Råkşhasas. 

10-11. The son of Rāhu became the chief and lord of Raksasas. 

Again the Daitya spoke to Devas: 

"It is my opinion that the efficacy inherent in this holy place should be granted to me so that I can earn some reputation." 

Saying "So be it" Devas offered him everything that he had desired. 

12-14. O divine sage, the holy centre is called by the name of that leading Daitya. Since, O highly intelligent one, Devas were present in that spot, that holy centre is called Devasthānam also. It is difficult of access even to Devas. The place where the Lord of the Devas stayed is remembered as Devatirtha. 

There are eighteen holy centres, O Nārada, that are worthy of being worshipped by the Daityas. Taking bath and distributing charitable gifts there destroys great sins.