Narad's New Pronblem

"Narayan, Narayan," said Narad as he entered the heavenly palace of Vishnu, perched on a serene sea resort. It was a beautiful day. The sun shone brightly, and a fragrant breeze carried a divine calmness through the air. Vishnu reclined gracefully on the Sheshnaag, while Laxmiji sat near his feet, exuding her usual serenity.

"Narayan, Narayan," Narad repeated, his voice tinged with urgency.

Vishnu smiled warmly at the sight of Narad and gestured for him to sit. He could see from Narad’s expression that something was troubling him. Knowing Narad well, Vishnu guessed it must be a matter concerning humanity—a recurring theme in their discussions. Over the ages, Narad had often arrived bearing news of earthly struggles. Yet, this time, Narad appeared even more worried—perhaps even confused.

Vishnu waited patiently. He exchanged a knowing glance with Laxmiji, who rose gracefully to fetch fruits and sweets for their guest. After partaking of the divine hospitality, Narad seemed visibly calmer.

"My dear bhakta Narad," Vishnu began, his tone both soothing and curious, "how is everyone on Earth and in the heavens? You travel far and wide, meeting countless souls. Tell me, how are things on Earth? And what brings you here today? Is something troubling you? Speak freely. Is humanity in difficulty?"

Narad sighed deeply. "Where do I begin, Narayan? There is nothing hidden from you, my Lord. The people of Earth face many struggles, as they always have. But this time, the problem is different—unlike anything before. A new affliction has emerged, and it troubles me deeply. I fear it may threaten one of the most precious gifts you bestowed upon mankind—their minds."

At this, Vishnu sat upright, his expression growing serious. The last he had heard from Lord Yama, there had been no unusual increase in mortal departures from Earth. Nor had he received any urgent prayers for divine intervention against a mysterious ailment.

"What is this new affliction, Narad?" Vishnu asked.

Narad hesitated for a moment, then spoke. "It is not a disease of the body, my Lord, but of the spirit and mind. It is a device—something humans call the 'smartphone.' And no one, it seems, is immune. Be it the old or the young, men or women, the rich or poor—this device ensnares them all. It begins its grip at an early age. Even priests in your temples, while performing your puja, fall victim to its distractions and forget you."

Vishnu's brows furrowed in concern. "A smartphone? What is it? Is it truly as smart as its name suggests? Have humans created something smarter than themselves?"

Narad shook his head. "No, my Lord, there is no such thing as a ‘dumb phone.’ The smartphone allows humans to do many things. They can take pictures, talk to each other, and send messages—much like how rishis of ancient times communicated through meditation. But now, messages are sent wirelessly, even across great distances. However, most of their time is wasted on WhatsApp, endlessly forwarding messages they have neither read nor understood. Worse still, people no longer visit Dharmgurus or Swamijis for advice—they believe all the wisdom they need is available on their phones."

Vishnu tilted his head thoughtfully. "If it allows such remarkable communication, where lies the problem?"

Narad sighed again. "The problem, my Lord, is how deeply humans have become enslaved by it. Families no longer talk to each other, even while sitting together at dinner. On the streets, people walk into pillars—or worse, into each other—because their eyes are glued to these devices. Accidents occur because they cannot tear their attention away from their screens. They have forgotten how to have real conversations or meet friends face-to-face. Their lives revolve around this device, and their minds are being consumed by it."

Vishnu’s curiosity deepened. "And where can I see this smartphone? Is it here in my palace?"

At this, Narad looked uncomfortable. With a reluctant hand, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a sleek, glowing object. Vishnu’s eyes widened as he stared at it.

"So," Vishnu said, his voice tinged with both amusement and disappointment, "this disease has even reached you, Narad?"

Narad looked sheepish but said nothing. Vishnu studied the device carefully, then spoke again. "I must admit, it looks fascinating. Where can I get one?"