Detailed Story of Arjuna and Mayasura for Kids in English

This is a small episode or verse taken from the book "The Mahabharata” written by the great sage Ved Vyasa in 350 CE. Mahabharata describes two groups of brothers fighting each other for the kingdom of Hastinapur. This verse is taken from when Arjuna was resting near the forest after the war ended in the evening. This story is a perfect example of why you should always help others in need without thinking about what they could give you in return.

Story of the Mayasura Kingdom in English

Mayasura Kingdom

During the Mahabharata, when the war ended in the evening, Arjuna, the youngest Pandava, went near the Khandava forest. Khandava forest was a large forest ruled by Takshaka. The forest was home to many species of plants, animals, and demons. As Arjun was resting near the forest, he heard many noises coming from the forest. Suddenly, a huge asur (Demon) called Mayasura came running from the forest to Arjuna. He was out of breath and in tension.

Mayasura Begging Arjuna for Help

Mayasura looked at Arjun and begged him to save the forest from the great fire of the god Agni. Mayasura said "The whole forest is on a huge fire, lots of plants, animals and innocent demons are getting killed due to it. Please help me, dear Arjuna." Arjuna agreed to help the poor Mayasura and went to the forest with him. Arjuna fought with the Agni and won. The lives of all plants, animals, and demons were saved. Mayasura became very happy and impressed by Arjuns's braveness.

Now, this extract takes place in Maya Mahal Mahabharata.

In return, he told Arjuna that he was an excellent architect and was known in the whole world for his wonderful buildings and sightings created by his illusion. Mayasura said "Dear Arjuna, you are very brave, and I am very thankful to you. In return, I would like to build something with my illusion for you." Arjuna was very happy and told Maysura to make a large palace with a beautiful garden and pool for him and his brothers. Mayasura happily did his magic and built a large white palace with a pool around the corners, gems, and marbles of fish shape, and a big door that looked similar to a wall. When all the Pandavas saw the palace they were very amazed and happy to see their new home.

Mayasura in Ramayana

Mayasura was known all over the world for his great architectural skill and illusion of power. Mayasura was also seen in the legendary Ramayana. He was the father of Mandodari (Wife of Ravana) and husband of Hema. Mayasura is also credited for making the great Pushpaka vimana that is used by Ravana in times of war.

Moral of the Arjun and Mayasura Story

The moral of this Mahabharata episode is that we should always be helpful to needy people and never expect something in return. We should happily accept whatever is given in return. Just like Arjuna helped the Mayasura without giving any second thought.

Note to the Parents

This mythological story is best to tell to kids as it consists of kindness and thankfulness. Telling legends and mythological stories to young kids helps in promoting culture, tradition, and ethics in kids.