Bandhavi

Bandhavi is a sacred river that flows into the Godavari River in the Indian state of Telangana. The name Bandhavi is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Bandhu' meaning 'friend'. It is believed that Lord Rama, during his exile in the forest, sent his brother Lakshmana to bring him water from the river Godavari. Lakshmana, unable to carry the heavy pitcher filled with water due to its large size, asked Lord Indra to help him. Indra, in the form of a swan, carried the pitcher on its wings and brought it to Lord Rama. Since this act brought 'bandhutva' (friendship) between Lord Rama and Indra, the river came to be known as Bandhavi.

Ancient India, around 5th century BCE

Another reference to Bandhavi River is found in the Puranic text, the Agni Purana. According to this text, there was a demon named Vatapi who was troubling the people of Hastinapur. The demon could not be killed by any weapon, but he could be killed by water boiled in the Samputa (a special pot). Lord Krishna was approached for help. He asked Arjuna to bring water from Bandhavi River and boil it in the Samputa. Arjuna, with the help of Bhima and Yudhishthira, brought water from Bandhavi River and killed the demon Vatapi, thus saving the people from his evil deeds.

Medieval India, around 10th century CE