( The L in this name is pronounced like 'l' in 'lie'. )
(See also the link alarka. Alarka was the name of a king too. )
Alarka was the name of an insect. With a view to esceed Arjuna in Asthras, Karna went to Parashuraama at Mahendra hill. He lied to the sage that he was a Braahmana and was learning archery from him. Oneday Parashuraama slept resting his head on Karna's thigh. The insect Alarka bit and bore through Karna's thigh causing a flow of blood. But, Karna did not move at all, fearing disturbance to his teacher's sleep. When the blood flowed and touched Parashuraama, he woke up and learnt what had happened. The insect soon died after Parashuraama looked at it. It soon assumed the form of a demon. The demon, named Damsha explained that he was living the life of an insect being cursed by Parashuraama's ancestor Bhrigu for attempting to abduct the latter's wife. He also told that he got his original form soon after seen by Parashuraama, as the relief was so prescribed by Bhrigu.
Parashuraama understood that Karna could not be a Braahmana for bearing with that that great pain and forced Karna to speak out truth. On learning what Karna did, he cursed him that whatever Karna learnt from him would be of no avail at the needed hour while fighting with his archrival in the decisive battle.
Karna returned dejected. Ultimately, Karna was unable to employ the great Brahma-Asthra in his last battle against Arjuna and was killed . Thus, a small insect caused a big turn in the story.
"After praying to Naaraayana, Nara, Sarasvathi and Vyaasa, then one should read the Jayam."
DEDICATED TO MY DEAR NIECE VYSHNAVI KRISHNA