We should bow before mahapurushas, for they have eminent qualities not to be found in others. Vedanta Desika enumerates their qualities in his Subhasita Nivi, said M.K. Srinivasan in a discourse. Mahapurushas are fair minded, and so if there is merit in what their enemies say, they will accept it. They will not be affected by the fact that someone dislikes them. The mind of a mahapurusha is pure and there is no trace of evil in their thoughts. They are incapable of wishing anyone harm. We should worship such mahapurushas, says Desika. Mahapurushas should be befriended. We cannot pretend to be superior to them or equal to them. So instead of ignoring them or criticising them, it is best that we are cordial with them.
At the time of the dissolution of the worlds, there is a fire. Can the mere hissing of a serpent equal the heat of this fire? A snake catcher may be able to catch ordinary snakes, but can he catch Adisesha? Likewise, mahapurushas too cannot be controlled by anyone, for they are not swayed by wealth, lineage or worldly learning. When a King sought to impose his views on Kooratazhvan, the latter was not afraid. He was prepared to lose his life, but would not bow before the king. Eventually, the king deprived him of his sight, but Kooratazhvan did not compromise on his beliefs or principles.
Brahma has given each of us a special quality. But all good qualities reside in mahapurushas. Garuda is known for his speed, the Himalayas for their strength and stability, the ocean for its depth, the moon for its cool rays, the sun for its brightness. Thus, each has one outstanding quality, but mahapurushas possess all amazing qualities. That is why they are worthy of worship. Mahapurushas do not seek material wealth. They are interested only in peace of mind.
