Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 13
Bhagīratha Brings Gaṅgā; Saudāsa’s Curse; Khaṭvāṅga’s Instant Renunciation
भस्मीभूताङ्गसङ्गेन स्वर्याता: सगरात्मजा: । किं पुन: श्रद्धया देवीं सेवन्ते ये धृतव्रता: ॥ १३ ॥
bhasmībhūtāṅga-saṅgena svar yātāḥ sagarātmajāḥ kiṁ punaḥ śraddhayā devīṁ sevante ye dhṛta-vratāḥ
Simply by having water from the Ganges come in contact with the ashes of their burnt bodies, the sons of Sagara Mahārāja were elevated to the heavenly planets. Therefore, what is to be said of a devotee who worships mother Ganges faithfully with a determined vow? One can only imagine the benefit that accrues to such a devotee.
FAQs
This verse states that even mere contact with Gaṅgā’s body granted Sagara’s sons a heavenly destination, implying that faithful worship by disciplined devotees yields still greater spiritual benefit.
He uses their deliverance as a comparison to emphasize Gaṅgā’s extraordinary sanctity—if accidental contact helped those reduced to ashes, intentional service with faith is even more potent.
Approach sacred practices with śraddhā (faith) and dhṛta-vrata (steady discipline)—regular worship, remembrance, and purity of conduct—rather than relying on occasional or accidental spirituality.