INTRODUCTION

AGNI EPISODE

It happened that once the Saptarishis performed a great yagna.  Agni then had the occasion of seeing the Munipatnis closely. And for long, since he was carrying the oblations to the gods. Their sublime charm enkindled love in him. He could not fulfil his lust due to the chastity strictly practiced by them. So he was found despaired now and then. Just during this period. Swaha, the lovely daughter of Daksha, who was in deep love for Agni contrived a plan to marry him by fulfilling his desire. Accordingly, she assumed the forms of the wives of the Rishis and consorted with Agni, who ignorant of the trick left elated. Except Arundathi, she took the forms of the six rishipatnis and pleased him, and was pleased too. Every time she consorted with him, she used to keep the seed in a golden receptacle on a white mountain. This happened six limes. The child thus born to them was called Skanda. since he came into the world with the seed of Agni. He has six heads and twelve arms. but only one neck and a belly. Agni and Swaha later brought him up as their child. On account of taking birth with the seed of that powerful all-consuming Fire-god. he was exceptionally strong and invincible. He was chosen as the general by Devendra, when he fought against Danavas. He proved a remarkable War-Chief and won every war. Devendra then gave his daughter Devasena to him in marriage.

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