Discover the divine origins of sage Viswamitra, from Gadhi's miraculous birth to Satyavati's transformation. 

The Birth of Gadhi and Viswamitra's Lineage (Shlokas 1.34.1 - 1.34.23)

The Putreshti Ritual (1.34.1 - 1.34.4)

After Brahmadatta's marriage and departure to his kingdom, King Kusanabha, who had no sons, decided to perform a putreshti (a sacred ritual to beget a son). During this ceremony, Kusa, the generous son of Brahma, approached King Kusanabha and made a prophecy:

"My son, you will have a virtuous son named Gadhi, who will be similar to you in character. Through him, you will gain everlasting fame in this world."

After delivering this auspicious message, Kusa departed for the eternal Brahmaloka (the celestial abode of Brahma) through the sky.

The Birth of Gadhi and Viswamitra's Origin (1.34.5 - 1.34.7)

Some time later, a supremely righteous son named Gadhi was born to the wise Kusanabha, fulfilling Kusa's prophecy. Viswamitra, addressing Rama, explained his lineage:

"O Rama, that virtuous Gadhi is my father. I am known as Kausika, born in the illustrious family of Kusa. My elder sister, Satyavati, was renowned for her devotion to religious practices. She was given in marriage to the sage Richika."

The Transformation of Satyavati (1.34.8 - 1.34.11)

Viswamitra continued his family history:

"My sister Satyavati, following her husband in devotion, ascended to heaven in her human form. Then, by divine decree, she transformed into a sacred river named Kausiki. This divine river, with its purifying waters, now flows from the Himavat mountains, bringing welfare and joy to the world.

Since her transformation, I have been living happily near the Himavat mountains, filled with affection for my sister in her new form as the river Kausiki.

Satyavati, now known as the river Kausiki, embodies sacredness and is firmly established in truth and righteousness. She remains chaste and holy, and is revered as the best among rivers."

Viswamitra's Journey to Siddha Ashrama (1.34.12 - 1.34.13)

"O Rama, to further my spiritual practices, I left the vicinity of the Kausiki river and journeyed to this Siddha Ashrama (a hermitage of accomplished sages). Having reached here, I have fulfilled my spiritual goals through your valor. This, Rama, is the story of my origin, my family's illustrious history, and the sacred nature of this place, as you inquired."

The Description of Midnight (1.34.14 - 1.34.18)

As midnight approached, Viswamitra advised Rama:

"O son of Kakustha, while narrating these stories, midnight has passed. It's time to rest now. May our journey tomorrow be free of obstacles.

Observe the night:

• The trees stand motionless

• Beasts and birds are at rest

• Darkness shrouds all directions

• The evening has gradually faded

• The sky is adorned with stars and planets, gleaming like celestial eyes

The moon rises higher, its cool rays:

• Dispel the world's darkness

• Delight the minds of all living beings

Nocturnal creatures now roam:

• Groups of yakshas (nature spirits)

• Rakshasas (demons)

• Fearsome flesh-eaters"

Praise for Viswamitra and the Kausika Lineage (1.34.19 - 1.34.23)

After Viswamitra concluded, the assembled sages praised him, saying:

"Well said, indeed! The Kausika family is truly venerable, always devoted to dharma (righteousness). Those of Kusa's dynasty are the foremost among men, as great as Lord Brahma himself. You, O illustrious Viswamitra, especially embody these qualities. The river Kausiki stands as the finest among rivers, further enhancing the reputation of your noble lineage."

Honored by these accolades from the great ascetics, Viswamitra, the auspicious son of Kusika, retired to sleep, his departure resembling the setting of the lustrous sun behind the Asta mountains. Rama and Lakshmana, filled with wonder and admiration for the great sage, also settled down to rest.

Thus ends the thirty fourth sarga (chapter) of Balakanda (The Book of Youth) of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.