Years had rolled after Bali started performing the 'Ashwamedha' horse sacrifices. Ninety-nine sacrifices had been successfully completed one after another. They were preparing for the hundredth sacrifice, which they had planned on a grand scale. On completion of thissacrifice Bali would earn the merit to bepermanently installed as Indra. The Danavas who were righteous in the beginning had become vain and insolent. They threatened people who were still worshipping Devas, saying, "Our king Bali is now Indra. We Danavas are the rulers and lords over the three worlds. None need worship Devas now."

There were unexpected calamities on the earth now. There were earthquakes at some places. At some other places rivers overflowed and swept away villages. At yet other places fires broke out and caused great damage. Unable to under- stand why such things took place,Bali came to Prahlada and asked :"What is the cause for these eruptions and calamities? Are they caused by the magical powers of the Devas ?".

Prahlada who was a devotee of Vishnu was capable of seeing into the past and future with his divine wisdom. He entered into a deep trance and understood the cause of it all. He said : "Vishnu has taken birth in the world in order to defeat and humble the insolent Danavas who aredrunk with power. These calamities betoken greater calamities awaiting the Danavas." Hearing these words, Bali became angry. With blood-shot eyes he turned toPrahlada and said, "Are we to be afraid of the Devas? Each warrior among us is capable of carrying the whole earth on his shoulders. When that is ourstrength, what can one Vishnu do to us?".

Prahlada also became angry andchastised Bali thus: ,You fool, you are too bold to speak ill of Sri Hari, the eternal lawgiver and protector. You have spoken thus knowing well that I am a devotee of Sri Hari. Very soon you will lose your kingdom and will be banished from earth."

King Bali realized his error. in fact Bali was not an enemy of Sri Hari. He had lost control over his tongue on account of his pride of valor. Regretting his conduct, he became humble. Tears of sorrow appeared in his eyes and he was unable to speak. He fell at the feet of Prahlada and begging forgiveness he said, "Be kind and merciful. You have rightly cursed me for my insolent words. I do not feel sorry if I lose my kingdom. I may get it back some how. But where can I get a guru like you ? I am more in sorrow because my speech has hurt your feelings."