Seduction of Rishyashringa

Rishyashringa, son of Vibhandaka sage was brought up in wilderness and knew no human beings except his father. The childless king Dasharatha was advised by sage Vasishtha to invite Rishyashringa, known for his spiritual powers to the city of  Ayodhya, to perform a special sacrifice for obtaining sons under his supervision. Accordingly teams of dancing girls were sent to the hermitage who tactfully brought the innocent youth to Ayodhya. He helped the king to conduct the much-needed sacrifice.

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Rishyashringa Lured into Ayodhya by Dancing Girls
Detail from 1911 painting by Balasaheb, the ruler of Aundh

• Source of Picture: Chitra Ramayana by Ramachandra Madhwa Mahishi, Illustrated by Balasaheb Pandit Pant Pratinidhi, 1916
• Commentary: Dr. Jyotsna Kamat