Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 33
Bhagīratha Brings Gaṅgā; Saudāsa’s Curse; Khaṭvāṅga’s Instant Renunciation
एवं करुणभाषिण्या विलपन्त्या अनाथवत् । व्याघ्र: पशुमिवाखादत् सौदास: शापमोहित: ॥ ३३ ॥
evaṁ karuṇa-bhāṣiṇyā vilapantyā anāthavat vyāghraḥ paśum ivākhādat saudāsaḥ śāpa-mohitaḥ
एवं करुणभाषिण्या विलपन्त्या अनाथवत् । व्याघ्र: पशुमिवाखादत् सौदास: शापमोहित: ॥ ३३ ॥
This is an example of destiny. King Saudāsa was condemned by the curse of Vasiṣṭha, and therefore even though he was well qualified he could not restrain himself from becoming a tigerlike Rākṣasa, for this was his destiny. Tal labhyate duḥkhavad anyataḥ sukham ( Bhāg. 1.5.18 ). As one is put into distress by destiny, destiny can also put one in a happy situation. Destiny is extremely strong, but one can change destiny if one comes to the platform of Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Karmāṇi nirdahati kintu ca bhakti-bhājām ( Brahma-samhitā 5.54).
FAQs
This verse shows that a curse can overwhelm a person’s normal judgment and behavior—Saudāsa becomes “śāpa-mohitaḥ,” deluded by the curse, and commits a horrific act.
Because he was under the influence of a curse; the Bhagavatam describes him as “śāpa-mohitaḥ,” indicating his consciousness was eclipsed, leading him to act with animal-like ferocity.
Guard your character through self-control and spiritual discipline, because association, reactions, and powerful influences can distort judgment—so one should seek protection in dharma and devotion rather than acting on impulse.