1.32 Kushnabha's Tale

As sage Viswamithra began narrating this enthralling tale, I found myself transported to a time of great kings and enchanting princesses. The story spoke of a noble lineage, born from the divine union of Lord Brahma and a virtuous princess from Vidharbha. I could sense the wisdom and ideals of righteousness being passed down from Kusa, the patriarch, to his four sons—Kusamba, Kusanabha, Asurthejasa, and Vasu.

Guided by their father's teachings, these illustrious princes embarked on a monumental journey to establish their own cities. Each of them, in their own unique way, built magnificent towns that stood as symbols of their values and character.

In the kingdom of Vasumathi, ruled by the righteous King Kushanabha, the river Maagadhi flowed gracefully, enhancing the beauty of the land. There, he fathered one hundred extraordinary daughters with his consort Grithachi—a paragon of virtue.

As Viswamithra described these young maidens, I could almost see their radiant and graceful presence in the gardens, captivating all who beheld them. The Wind God, enamored by their beauty and youthful allure, approached them with a proposal, promising them immortality and eternal youth. However, these daughters of Kushanabha, proud and resolute, rejected his advances with dignity, declaring that only their father had the right to choose their destined partners.

The Wind God, angered by their refusal, inflicted them with disfigurement, causing immense distress to the young maidens. Returning to their father's palace with tearful eyes, their pain weighed heavily on King Kushanabha's heart.