Pulastya, one of the ten Prajapati, holds a significant place in Hindu mythology. As a mind-born son of Brahma and one of the Saptarishi (seven great sages) of the first age of Manu (the Manvantara), Pulastya’s influence is deeply embedded in ancient texts and traditions.

Origin and Birth

In the Bhagavata Purana (Srimad Bhagavatam), it is narrated that Pulastya emerged from the ear of Brahma. This unique birth underscores his divine nature and the high regard in which he is held among the sages.

Family and Children

Marriage to Manini

The Ramayana (Valmiki Ramayana)provides a detailed account of Pulastya’s marriage to Manini. During a period of intense austerities in the ashrama of Trinabindu on the slopes of Mount Meru, Pulastya was disturbed by a group of youthful maidens. These maidens, including the daughters of other sages, naga maidens, and apsaras, sought to divert his attention with their music and dance. Enraged by their interruptions, Pulastya cursed that any maiden who came under his gaze would become pregnant instantly. Terrified by this curse, the maidens disappeared. However, Manini, the daughter of Trinabindu, unaware of the curse, wandered into the area and became pregnant. She informed her father, Trinabindu, of her condition. In response, Trinabindu requested Pulastya to marry Manini, to which Pulastya consented. They lived together in the ashrama, and Pulastya, pleased with Manini’s virtuous behavior, prophesied that their child would inherit her virtues. This child was named Vishrava.

Birth of Vishrava

Vishrava, Pulastya’s son with Manini, became a prominent figure in Hindu mythology. Vishrava had two wives: Kaikesi and Ilavida. With Kaikesi, he fathered the powerful demon king Ravana, his siblings Shurpanakha, Kumbhakarna, and Vibhishana. With Ilavida, Vishrava had a son named Kubera, the god of wealth.

Birth of Agastya

Pulastya is also recognized as the father of the revered sage Agastya. This further cements his importance in the lineage of great sages in Hindu tradition.

Interaction with Bhishma

Pulastya’s wisdom and spiritual stature are highlighted in his interaction with Bhishma. While Bhishma was living near the sacred source of the river Ganga, called Gaṅgādvāra, Pulastya appeared before him. Impressed by Bhishma’s devout austerities, Pulastya revealed himself and imparted teachings on the path of dharma. These teachings had originally been bestowed upon Pulastya by Brahma.

Role as a Narrator

Pulastya’s role as a transmitter of sacred knowledge is well-documented. He received the Vishnu Purana from Brahma and communicated it to Parashara, who then shared it with mankind. In the Vamana Purana, Pulastya answered Narada‘s questions by recounting various legends, acting as a crucial conduit of ancient wisdom.

Pulastya in the Ramakien

In Thailand’s national epic, the Ramakien, Pulastya is known as Latsatian. He is depicted as the second king of Lanka and the father of Thotsakan, paralleling his role as an ancestor of Ravana in the Hindu tradition.

Archaeological Connections

The ancient archaeological mounds of Theh Polar in Kaithal district of Haryana, India, are associated with Pulastya. In Sri Lanka, there was speculation that a famous granite statue in Polonnaruwa, initially thought to depict King Parakramabahu the Great, might actually represent Pulastya. However, this theory was later refuted by Prof. Senarath Paranawithana. Despite this, the city where Parakramabahu reigned is referred to as Pulastinagara in Sinhalese chronicles, indicating a historical connection to Pulastya.

Conclusion

Pulastya’s legacy is vast and multifaceted, spanning across various texts, cultures, and traditions. His contributions as a sage, teacher, and progenitor of notable figures in Hindu mythology solidify his status as a significant figure. His stories, teachings, and lineage continue to be a source of spiritual guidance and inspiration, underscoring the timeless nature of his impact on Hindu tradition.