Chyavana is a sage mentioned in Hindu mythology, and he is associated with several significant events and stories. Here are some key aspects related to Chyavana:
- Marriage to Sukanya: One of the well-known stories involving Chyavana is his marriage to Sukanya. According to the myth, Chyavana was a sage who lived in deep meditation. Once, while he was immersed in meditation, two Asvins (celestial twins associated with medicine and healing) played a prank on him by taking the form of a beautiful young man. Sukanya, the daughter of King Sharyati, mistook Chyavana for the celestial youth and, without realizing the sage’s identity, married him.
- Angry King and Divine Intervention: When King Sharyati discovered the truth and realized that his daughter had married a sage instead of the celestial youth, he became angry. Chyavana, feeling sympathetic towards Sukanya and her father, invoked the Ashvins to restore her youth and beauty. The Ashvins agreed to the request and granted Sukanya perpetual youth.
- Chyavana Prasravana: Chyavana is also associated with a fire sacrifice known as “Chyavana Prasravana.” This sacrifice is mentioned in Vedic literature, and Chyavana is credited with its establishment.
- Mandavya Incident: In another account, Chyavana is mentioned in the Mahabharata in connection with the story of Mandavya. Sage Mandavya was mistakenly impaled on a trident by a king during a hunting expedition. In response to this injustice, Mandavya cursed the king to be reborn as a python. Later, Chyavana’s intervention played a role in mitigating the curse.
Chyavana is generally portrayed as a wise and compassionate sage in Hindu mythology. The story of his marriage to Sukanya is often cited to illustrate themes of devotion, divine intervention, and the consequences of hasty actions. The Chyavana Prasravana sacrifice underscores the importance of rituals and ceremonies in Vedic traditions.
In Hindu mythology, Chyavana (चित्रांगद) was a great sage, who had done penances for several years. He was powerful enough to oppose the Vajra of Indra and was responsible for the Ashwini Kumaras getting their share of the sacrificial offerings. The story of his creation is the Mada.
He was married to Sukanya, a princess. Chyavana Rishi Ashram situated at chanani Ghazipur.