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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 ablations to the gods. Their sublime charm enkindled love in
him. He could not fulfill his lust due to the chastity strictly practised. by
them. So he was found despaired now and then Just during his 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 felt elated. Except Arundhati, 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 times.
The child thus born to them was called Skanda since he came into the world with the seed of Agni.
He had six heads and twelve arms, but one neck and a belly. Agni and Swaha later brought up 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 k remarkable War-Chief and won every war. Devendra then gave his daughter
Devasena to him in marriage.
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