Bhagīratha Brings Gaṅgā; Saudāsa’s Curse; Khaṭvāṅga’s Instant Renunciation
विशापो द्वादशाब्दान्ते मैथुनाय समुद्यत: । विज्ञाप्य ब्राह्मणीशापं महिष्या स निवारित: ॥ ३७ ॥
viśāpo dvādaśābdānte maithunāya samudyataḥ vijñāpya brāhmaṇī-śāpaṁ mahiṣyā sa nivāritaḥ
After twelve years, when King Saudāsa was released from the curse by Vasiṣṭha, he wanted to have sexual intercourse with his wife. But the Queen reminded him about the curse by the brāhmaṇī, and thus he was checked from sexual intercourse.
This verse shows that a brāhmaṇī’s curse is treated as spiritually potent and binding, shaping a person’s conduct even after time has passed, and prompting careful restraint to avoid further reactions.
Because she reminded him of the brāhmaṇī’s curse and its consequences, and thus prevented him from acting in a way that could renew danger, sin, or further karmic entanglement.
Before acting on impulse—especially in sense enjoyment—seek good counsel, remember consequences, and choose restraint aligned with dharma and long-term spiritual well-being.