Paushya Parva

The Paushya Parva is a sub-section of the Adi Parva in the Mahabharata. It primarily consists of three connected stories that highlight themes of loyalty, duty, and the protection of dharma. The stories revolve around sages, kings, and divine figures, and serve as a prelude to the grander narrative of the Mahabharata.

In this parva, King Janamejaya, the great-grandson of the Pandavas, is preparing for his snake sacrifice (Sarpasatra), which is also a key event in the Mahabharata. The stories include:

  1. The Story of Uttaṅka: Uttaṅka is a sage who is sent on a difficult mission to retrieve earrings as a gift. Along the way, he encounters obstacles, including a meeting with a serpent king, but eventually succeeds in his task.
  2. The Story of Sage Ayodha-Dauma: Ayodha-Dauma’s disciples are tasked with carrying out certain difficult duties, and one of them, Aruni, displays immense loyalty and dedication to his guru.
  3. The Story of King Paushya: The parva also includes the story of King Paushya and how he helps a Brahmin named Indradyumna. In this story, the themes of righteousness and the sacred duties of kings and sages are explored.

The Paushya Parva serves as an introduction to some of the important characters and moral lessons that are woven throughout the Mahabharata. It also provides a backdrop for the snake sacrifice that connects to the larger narrative of King Janamejaya and his quest for revenge against the serpents.

Utanka explaining to King Janamejaya on the need of Snake Sacrifice

The Spark of Vengeance: The Story Behind King Janamejaya’s Snake Sacrifice

After departing from Rishi Veda’s ashram, Utanka was consumed by a burning desire for revenge against Takshaka, the serpent who caused the untimely death of King Parikshit. His journey led him to Hastinapur, where he sought to persuade the newly victorious King Janamejaya to perform a powerful snake sacrifice. Through sharp words and painful truths, Utanka reminded the king of his royal duty—to avenge his father’s death and protect the kingdom from Takshaka’s menace. Stirred by this revelation, King Janamejaya set in motion one of the most legendary rituals in ancient history.