The Legend of King Bali

Another enjoyable legend is that of King Bali of the underworld; his mighty power had become a threat to the gods who were gravely concerned.

In order to curb his powers Lord Vishnu in the guise of a "Batu Waman", a small boy, visited him and begged him to give him only that much land which he could cover with his three steps.

Known for his philanthropy, King Bali proudly granted him his wish. That very moment that small boy transformed himself into the all-powerful Lord Vishnu.

With his first step Lord Vishnu covered the entire heaven and with the second step the earth and asked Bali where to keep his third step. Bali offered his head. Putting his foot on his head Vishnu pushed him down to the underworld.

At the same time for his generosity, Lord Vishnu gave him the lamp of knowledge and allowed him to return to earth once a year to light millions of lamps to dispel darkness and ignorance and spread the radiance of love and wisdom.