This story relates to bond of brotherhood between King Bali and Goddess Laxmi, who is Lord Vishnu's consort.
It is said that Lord Vishnu had promised to protect King Bali. So he disguised as a doorman to protect him. But Goddess Laxmi was lonely and sad in Vaikunth Lok, the abode of Vishnu.
So Goddess Laxmi disguised as a woman and came to Earth. She went to King Bali's palace and sought shelter. King Bali was kind and generous. He politely asked the woman to come in and stay long as she desired.
It is said that as Goddess Laxmi entered King Bali's palace, it began to prosper. Days passed by and on say of Full Moon (of Shravana month according to Hindu calender) Goddess Laxmi tied a sacred knot (Rakhi) on King Bali's hand. She blessed him and wished for his long life and prosperity.
Disguising herself as a woman seeking a shelter to live in since her husband has been away, she approaches Bali. The generous king opens the doors of his palaces for the lady.
As Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity enters the household Bali begins to prosper. Following this, King Bali asked her to make a wish. King bali promised to grant her wish. Hearing this, both Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi revealed their true identity. Goddess Laxmi now asked King Bali to liberate Lord Vishnu from his promise of door keeping and allow him to return to his abode.
King Bali was elated to see the Gods. He bowed before them, and prayed before them, saying 'Lord, you have protected me. I have received blessing from Goddess Laxmi herself. I understand that the world needs you both. I humbly request you to place yourself in Vaikunth Lok from where you can protect and bless the entire existence'.
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