Kindama
In the Hindu epic Mahābhārata, Kindama was a rishi who lived in the woods, and could transform himself into an animal form. His curse on Pandu was a major factor in the epic's plot. This curse is the reason for the mystical birth of the Pandavas and also at a later stage, for Pandu's death.
Curse
Once rishi Kindama transformed himself and his wife into deer and engaged in intercourse in the woods. Pandu, who had been hunting there, shot them, seriously injuring them. An enraged Kindama returned to human form. Before dying, Kindama cursed Pandu that he would die the moment he engaged in intercourse with any woman.[1][2]
Role in the Mahabharata
After the Kindama's curse, Pandu renounced everything and became a hermit. Dhritarashtra the blind brother of Pandu, became the king of Hastinapura. Then, after a long time, Pandu was so enthralled by his second wife's womanly manners that he could no longer contain his desires. As soon as he attempted intercourse with Madri, he died. Madri also immolated herself in her husband's pyre.
Citations
- ↑ Uberoi, Meera. The Mahabharata. ISBN 9788170702313.
- ↑ Pattanaik, Devdutt (2000). The goddess in India : the five faces of the eternal feminine. Rochester, Vt: Inner Traditions International. ISBN 9780892818075.
