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Kakutstha, also known as Puranjaya, was a legendary king of the Ikshvaku dynasty, which is part of the Solar dynasty (Suryavansha). He is mentioned in various ancient texts, including the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and several Puranas. His story is often celebrated for his bravery and divine favour.

Kakutstha
King of Ayodhya
AffiliationIkshvaku dynasty, Solar dynasty
AbodeAyodhya
MountIndra in the form of a bull
TextsRamayana, Mahabharata, Puranas
Genealogy
ParentsSasada (father)
ChildrenAnena

Genealogy

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Kakutstha was the son of Sasada, the son of Manu, the progenitor of mankind. He was named after he defeated an asura with the help of Indra while riding on the hump of a bull (kakut in Sanskrit), earning him the name Kakutstha (bull rider).[citation needed]

Birth and Early Life

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According to legend, Kakutstha was born to King Sasada, although very few call him a son of Ikshvaku. His early life is not extensively documented, but his most famous exploits include his battle against the Asuras, where he earned the gods' favour.[1]

Battle with the Asuras

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One of the most notable legends associated with Kakutstha is his battle with the asuras. When the Devas could not defeat the Asuras, they sought the help of Kakutstha. Indra transformed into a bull, and Kakutstha rode on its hump, leading the gods to victory. This heroic act earned him his name and a place of reverence in Hindu mythology.[2][3]

Indra who became a bull to help Kakutstha.

Legacy and Descendants

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Kakutstha is often cited as an ancestor of Lord Rama, making him an essential figure in the lineage of the solar dynasty. His descendants continued to rule the kingdom, maintaining the values and principles he established. He is considered a symbol of bravery and divine favour in Hindu culture.[4][5]

References in Texts

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Kakutstha is mentioned in various texts, each highlighting different aspects of his life and legacy:

Ramayana: The epic mentions him as an ancestor of Lord Rama and praises his valour.[4] Mahabharata: The text refers to him in several instances, particularly in the context of the solar dynasty.[3] Puranas: Various Puranas describe his lineage, battle with the Asuras, and contributions to the solar dynasty.[2]

References

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  1. ^ "Who is referred to as Kakutstha?". Hinduism Stack Exchange. Retrieved 7 June 2024.
  2. ^ a b Vettam Mani (1975). Puranic Encyclopaedia. Motilal Banarsidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd.
  3. ^ a b C. Rajagopalachari (2000). The Mahabharata. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
  4. ^ a b The Ramayana of Valmiki: An Epic of Ancient India, Volume 1. Translated by Robert P. Goldman. Princeton University Press. 2007.
  5. ^ "Ultimate Guide to Hindu Mythology". Mythopedia. Retrieved 7 June 2024.