Kashyapa Rishi, one of the Sapta Rishis, holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology as a revered sage and progenitor of numerous beings. His story is rich with complexity and symbolism, intertwined with his marriages and the diverse offspring he fathered. Here’s a detailed narrative of Kashyapa Rishi, his spouses, and their progeny:
Kashyapa Rishi:
Kashyapa Rishi, born from Marichi, one of the mind-born sons of Brahma, is celebrated as a wise and learned sage. He is renowned for his deep knowledge of the Vedas, his expertise in rituals and sacrifices, and his contributions to the lineage of sages.
Marriages:
Kashyapa Rishi had several wives, each contributing to the diversity of beings in the universe.
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- Children: Bhumidevi, Vamana, Agni, 11 Rudras, and 12 Adityas. Notable descendants include Vivasvan, who started the Solar Dynasty (Surya vansha), and later, the Ikshvaku dynasty.
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- Children: Gandharvas (celestial musicians). In some versions, she is also considered the mother of the Apsaras.
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Diti:
- Children: Daityas (also known as Rakshasas), including Hiranyaksha, Hiranyakashipu, Sinhika (aka Holika), Ivala, Maruts, and others. Notable descendants include Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu.
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Dhanu (Danu):
- Children: Danavas or demons, numbering 100. Notable descendants include Mayasura and Vritra.
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Ira (Ila, Ida):
- Children: Progenitor of trees, plants, and herbs.
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- Children: Nagas (serpents), including Adishesha, Astika, and Vasuki.
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- Children: Uraghas (a type of serpent) and goblins. In some versions, her offspring are ferocious animals, birds, and fishes.
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Muni:
- Children: Apsaras (celestial maidens).
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- Children: Progenitor of cattle, including cows and buffaloes.
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Surasa (Simhika):
- Children: Demons like Namuchi and Vatapi. In some versions, she is also considered the mother of Nagas.
- Tamra (Tarama):
- Children: Progenitor of hawks, moths, vultures, parrots, and other birds. In some versions, she is also the mother of six daughters from whom donkeys, camels, crows, and owls originated.
- Timi (Khasa, Vishva):
- Children: Water creatures and demigods, including Kubera.
- Children: Aruna, the charioteer of Surya, and Garuda, the lord of all birds. In some versions, she is also the mother of Arishtanemi.
These wives and their offspring contribute to the diversity of beings in Hindu mythology and play significant roles in various mythological narratives.
Legacy:
Kashyapa Rishi’s marriages and offspring illustrate the diversity of beings in Hindu mythology and the interconnectedness of all life forms. His descendants, including gods, demons, serpents, birds, and other creatures, play important roles in the cosmic drama and serve as embodiments of various cosmic principles and forces.
Through his wisdom and progeny, Kashyapa Rishi contributes to the richness and complexity of Hindu mythology, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings and the cyclical nature of Creation, preservation, and dissolution in the universe.