BHAGEERATHA AND THE STORY OF GANGA

Amsumaan succeeded Sagara as King of Ayodhya and was, in turn, succeeded by Dileepa. Bhageeratha came after Dileepa.

Amsumaan and Dileepa though happy and blessed in other respects, died grieving that they were unable to bring Ganga to paataala for the salvation of their forefathers.

Bhageeratha was a valiant king. He was childless. Desiring progeny and hoping to bring Ganga down, he left for Gokarna for performing penance, leaving the kingdom in the hands of his ministers.

Bhageeratha went through severe austerities. With fire on all sides and head exposed to the hot sun, and taking food but once a month, he continued his tapas. Bhageeratha’s name has come to signify great perseverance in any good cause.

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