The Story of the Two Hermits that Brought down a Deluge on the City of Kunala (Kathakosa)
By Unexhibited
Summary
This moral tale tells of two hermits who lived near the prosperous city of Kuṇāla. They were engaged in severe austerities and were revered by the local people. However, the king of Kuṇāla became arrogant and mocked the hermits, refusing to provide them with customary alms. Feeling slighted, the hermits prayed to the gods for justice. Their meditation unleashed torrential rains that flooded the city, washing away its wealth and buildings. The king realised his error and begged for forgiveness. The hermits relented and withdrew the rains, but the damage had been done. The story illustrates the power attributed to spiritual practitioners in ancient narratives: through tapas (ascetic heat) they could influence natural phenomena. It also warns rulers to respect ascetics and uphold dharma. Ultimately, the hermits’ anger serves as a reminder that spiritual power should be tempered by compassion, and that arrogance can bring about one’s downfall.
Conclusion
The tale uses the motif of a flood to dramatise the consequences of disrespecting the pious. It teaches that kings who ignore moral obligations risk losing everything, while ascetic power must be exercised responsibly.