Akshay Patra – Gifted by Lord Surya
The Pandavas had a divine vessel, Akshay Patra with them during their exile that ensured that there was no paucity of food for them during their difficult days. That vessel is used to give them any food they wish unlimitedly.
They were able to provide a full-fledged feast to their guests, irrespective of their numbers, even in the dense forest. They got that vessel by the grace of Lord Surya when Yudhishter prayed to him to grant a boon ensuring food for them and their guests.
Lord Surya who was pleased with him gifted Akshay Patra and said that it would give him any quantity of food. However, once Draupadi finishes her meal, it would not work for the day.
Prayers to Lord Surya
According to Mythology, there were many who worshipped the magnificent God of Glitter to fulfill their wishes.
- By worshipping Lord Surya, King Satrajit obtained ‘Syamanthakamani’ which is capable of showering gigantic masses of gold.
- Kunthi Devi, the mother of Pandavas got Karna as a son shining with ‘Kavachakundalas’ by praying to Lord Ravi.
- Pleased with the invocation of King Dharmaraja, Lord Surya offered ‘Akshaya Patra’ to him to solve the crisis of food when the Pandavas were leading a horrible life in the forest.
- After praying to Lord Surya, the great Sanskrit poet Mayura’s leprosy was cured.
