The Seven Immortal
In Hindu theology, it has been expounded in several puranas and epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana that there exist seven long lived personalities, in the Hindu pantheon. On the earth they have been considered exceptions. They existed in the past ages - Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga and are still there in Kali Yuga.
These Eight chiranjeevis are:
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Bali Chakravarthi, who was granted the boon by Vishnu that he can have his desire fulfilled of being the next Indra, before merging with Vishnu. He expounds the virtues of valour and charity.
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Parashurama, an avatar of Vishnu, he signifies one who is the master of all astras , sastras and divine weapons.
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Vibhishana, brother of Ravana in the Ramayana. Vibhishana surrendered to Rama before his battle with Ravana and was crowned king ofLanka after Ravana was killed by Rama. He was a faithful follower of Lord Rama and stands for righteousness.
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Hanuman, who served Rama, stands for selflessness, courage, devotion, energy, strength and righteous conduct
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Vyasa, a sage who narrated the Mahabharata, and was also a sage in the epic, he represents erudition and wisdom.
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Ashwatthama, the son of Drona, he was supposed to be a great warrior, but acted out of cowardice to punish his father's death and got cursed.
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Kripa, another military teacher of the princes in the Mahabharata.
A mantra, about the seven immortals, is said to give human beings good luck and long life if recited everyday:
"Ashwathaama Balir Vyaso Hanumanash cha Vibhishana Krupacharya cha Parashuramam Saptaita Chiranjeevanam"
which means Ashwathama , MahaBali ,Vyasa ,Hanuman ,Vibhishana ,Kripacharya,Markandeya and Parashurama are the 7 long lived personalities.according to another legend Markandeya also chiranjeevi.
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