A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1657

c5.1657

SAUBHARI. A devout sage, who, when he was old and emaciated, was inspired with a desire of offspring. He went to King Māndhātri, and demanded one of his fifty daughters. Afraid to refuse, and yet unwilling to bestow a daughter upon such a suitor, the king temporised, and endeavoured to evade the request. It was at length settled that, if any one of the daughters should accept him as a bridegroom, the king would consent to the marriage. Saubhari was conducted to the presence of the girls; but on his way he assumed a fair and handsome form, so that all the girls were captivated, and contended with each other as to who should become his wife. It ended by his marrying them all and taking them home. He caused Viswa-karma to build for each a separate palace, furnished in the most luxurious manner, and surrounded with exquisite gardens, where they lived a most happy life, each one of them having her husband always present with her, and believing that he was devoted to her and her only. By his wives he had a hundred and fifty sons; but as he found his hopes and desires for them to daily increase and expand, he resolved to devote himself wholly and solely to penance and the worship of Vishnu. Accordingly, he abandoned his children and retired with his wives to the forest. *See Vishnu Purāna.*