Dhruv – the Story of Pole Star in Hindu Religion

  Dhruv Nakshatra, or Dhruva Nakshatram, is the name
of the pole star in Hindu Religion. The origin of Dhruv star is
narrated through an interesting story in the Bhagavad Purana. Dhruv was
the son of King Uttanapada and Suneeti. The king also had another wife
named Suruchi and she had a son named Utham.

The
King had a special attachment for Suruchi and the queen decided to take
advantage of this to make Utham, her son, the next king. But the next
in line to the throne was Dhruv.

Once
the young Dhruv saw his younger brother Utham sitting on the lap of his
father, now he also wanted to sit on the lap of his father. But when he
ran to his father, Suruchi rebuked him and asked him to go to God and
ask him to let you sit on his lap.

The king felt sad but remained quiet for not wanting to hurt Suruchi.

Dhruv
was a determined child and he immediately went in search of God. He
walked away from the palace and passed through numerous places but no
one could guide him to God. Finally, he met Saint Narada in a forest.

Saint
Narada tried all means to send him back to the palace saying he was too
young to meet God. But Dhruv stood his ground and said he will only go
back after meeting god.

Impressed
by the young Dhruv’s resolve, Narada asked him to sit on the banks of
Yamuna and meditate by chanting Om Nama Bhagavate Vasudevaya.

Dhruv
did exactly as told by Sage Narada. Gradually, the meditation became so
intense that the young boy gave up food and water.

Impressed
by his determination and courage, Lord Vishnu appeared before him and
he was overjoyed to see him. Lord Vishnu gave him the boon that he will
rule the kingdom for several years and finally he will find a place in
the heaven and will get to sit on the lap of God.

Dhruv
returned to the palace and he became the king in due course of time and
ruled the kingdom wisely for many years. After his death he became the
Pole Star – sitting on the lap of God.