A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.275

c5.275

BHRIGU. A Vedic sage. He is one of the Prajāpatis and great Rishis, and is regarded as the founder of the race of the Bhrigus or Bhārgavas, in which was born Jamad-agni and Parasu Rāma. Manu calls him son, and says that he confides to him his Institutes. According to the Mahā-bhārata he officiated at Daksha’s celebrated sacrifice, and had his beard pulled out by Siva. The same authority also tells the following story:—It is related of Bhrigu that he rescued the sage Agastya from the tyranny of King Nahusha, who had obtained superhuman power. Bhrigu crept into Agastya’s hair to avoid the potent glance of Nahusha, and when that tyrant attached Agastya to his chariot and kicked him on the head to make him move, Bhrigu cursed Nahusha, and he was turned into a serpent. Bhrigu, on Nahusha’s supplication, limited the duration of his curse.