Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 22
Bhagīratha Brings Gaṅgā; Saudāsa’s Curse; Khaṭvāṅga’s Instant Renunciation
परिवेक्ष्यमाणं भगवान् विलोक्याभक्ष्यमञ्जसा । राजानमशपत् क्रुद्धो रक्षो ह्येवं भविष्यसि ॥ २२ ॥
parivekṣyamāṇaṁ bhagavān vilokyābhakṣyam añjasā rājānam aśapat kruddho rakṣo hy evaṁ bhaviṣyasi
While examining the food given to him, Vasiṣṭha Muni, by his mystic power, could understand that it was unfit to eat, being the flesh of a human being. He was very angry at this and immediately cursed Saudāsa to become a man-eater.
FAQs
This verse shows that disrespecting or neglecting a great sage can bring severe reactions—here, a curse—highlighting the Bhagavatam’s warning to avoid offenses toward saintly persons.
Durvāsā saw that he was treated as “abhakṣya” (as if unfit to be fed) and, becoming angry, cursed the king to become a rākṣasa—reflecting the sage’s intense sensitivity to perceived disrespect.
Practice humility and careful respect in dealings—especially with spiritually advanced people—and avoid rash judgments, as small lapses in etiquette and intention can escalate into major conflict.