Hirkani: The Mother who Risked Everything for her Child

"Being a mother is learning about strengths you didn't know you had, and dealing with fears you didn't know existed." - Linda Wooten

Mom's aren't just there for one special day a year, are they? They're the superheroes of our lives, always there with a hug, a helping hand, and a fierce love. But have you ever heard stories that capture that amazing spirit, stories that celebrate mothers every single day? Well, buckle up because we've got a tale for you, a story about Hirkani, a mother whose bravery reminds us why every day can be Mother's Day.

Hirkani's legendary escape to reunite with her child remains one of the most touching bedtime stories for adults, offering more than just entertainment but a powerful message about maternal love.

The legend of Hirkani

Hirkani lived during the reign of the revered Maratha king, Shivaji Maharaj, serving in the bustling environment of Raigad Fort. Her daily life involved the tasks typical for a milkmaid of that era, primarily revolving around caring for cattle and ensuring the fort’s residents had an ample supply of milk.

Every day, she climbed the mountain with heavy pots of milk to sell to the people inside. One day, something unexpected happened at the fort and by the time she finished, the giant gates were already locked for the night!

Hirkani panicked. Her baby was back home, hungry and alone. Knowing it was dangerous, she climbed down the dangerous steep hillside anyway. It was a tough climb, but the thought of her child kept her going. Finally, scratched, tired and shaken, she reached the bottom.

The next morning, Hirkani went to the fort. The guards were surprised to see her alive after breaking the night rule. But when she explained her story, it reached the king himself. He was impressed by her bravery and love for her child. Not only did he forgive her, but he also ordered a wall to be built along the dangerous cliff. Her story is embedded deeply within the walls of what is now known as Hirkani Buruj, a section of the fort named in her honour.

Also read: 9 Ways to Show Gratitude to The Best Mom Ever

Drift off to dreamland with Hirkani’s story

Ever wonder why bedtime stories are so comforting? It's not just about nostalgia! It's also a powerful remedy for when you sleep badly at night. You can experience this with Hirkani’s sleep story available in Hindi, English and Marathi on the Level SuperMind app.

Listen to the complete bedtime story on the app.

But why should you try it?

Curling up with a good story can actually help you fall asleep faster and have a more restful night. Here's how:

• Calming the chatter: Our minds can be busy places, especially before bed. Bedtime stories, like Hirkani's tale of courage, offer a gentle focus, guiding your attention away from worries and to-do lists. It's like a peaceful escape for your brain!
• Soothing sounds: The calming voice of a narrator has a soothing effect which can help lower your heart rate and ease you into a relaxed state, perfect for drifting off to sleep.
• Happy place: Many bedtime stories, like Hirkani's, have peaceful settings or happy endings. Imagine yourself in Hirkani's village, the quiet night air and the stars twinkling above. These peaceful images can replace any stressful thoughts and lull you towards sleep.

So, why not give it a try? Listen to Hirkani's story, or pick another one that catches your fancy. You might be surprised at how much easier it is to drift off to sleep that you’ve been trying to get so long.

Hirkani’s bravery and motherhood

The dangerous descent down the fort walls was fraught with dangers, yet Hirkani's maternal instincts kept her going. This feat, likely retold in countless bedtime stories, showcases not just physical courage but a profound emotional resilience. Hirkani’s story is a sterling example of how a mother’s love can drive seemingly impossible feats.

This tale resonates especially in bedtime stories for adults, as it touches on the universal theme of parental sacrifice. It's a narrative that not only celebrates her physical act of bravery but also highlights the emotional and psychological depth of maternal commitment. It reminds us of the fierce protectiveness our loving moms possess, willing to do anything for their children's safety and well-being.

Mothers are natural problem-solvers. Hirkani, finding herself in a perilous situation, uses her knowledge and resourcefulness to find a way back to her child. It highlights the countless sacrifices mothers make, big and small, to ensure their children's needs are met.

Cultural impact and legacy

Over the centuries, the tale of Hirkani has been woven into the cultural tapestry of Maharashtra, celebrated in various forms of art, literature, and popular media. Her story is particularly significant as it also reflects the valorous spirit promoted by Shivaji Maharaj himself, making her an emblematic figure in Marathi heritage.

Today, Hirkani Buruj stands not only as a structural part of Raigad Fort but as a lasting memorial to her bravery. Her story is commemorated through local lore, cultural festivities, and by those trekking to the fort, who often pause to pay homage at the site where she demonstrated her remarkable courage.

Final thoughts

Reflecting on Hirkani's enduring legacy, it is clear that her story does more than entertain. It educates, inspires, and resonates deeply across generations, maintaining its relevance in modern times. As one of the most profound bedtime stories for adults, Hirkani's tale continues to inspire awe and admiration for a mother’s love and bravery, making her a perpetual figure of inspiration in Marathi folklore and beyond.