Ways to reach Indraloka

Idol of Lord Indra

  Vana parva of Mahabharat  describes in brief, Amaravathi the heavenly city of Indraloka [swarg] and enumerates the way to reach it .

The city of Indra which Arjuna saw was delightful and was resort of Siddhas and Charanas,
It was adorned with flowers of every season and with sacred trees  of all kinds.And he also beheld the celestial gardens called Nandana   --the favorite resort of Apasaras.The trees were in full celestial bloom with lingering fragrance.

It was a place free of anxiety , old age, fear  and,fatigue It was  auspicious and bestowing good fortune.

None can behold the city Amaravathi the heavenly abode of Indra--

who had not gone through ascetic austerities

Or who had not poured libations in fire,

It was region of virtuos alone,,

And not for those who had turned their back on the battle field

And none were competent to see it  ---                                                                                                                                                              who had not performed  yagnas/homams 

Or had not observed rigid vows
                                                                                                                                                                  Or who were not distinguished for yagnas and gifts

Or who were without the knowledge of Vedas,

Or who had not bathed in sacred waters

And none were competent to see it -----
                                                                                                                                                                    Who were  distrurbers of yagnas/homams                                                                                                                                                                       Or who were low
                                                                                                                                                                  or who drank intoxicating liquors
                                                                                                                                                                    Or who were violators  of their preceptors bed,

Or who were eaters of [unsanctified ] meat
                                                                                                                                           
Or who were wicked .

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