Summary
Biography
Full Names: Atri Rishi and Anasuya
Era: Satya Yuga / Early Treta Yuga
Parents: Atri – mind-born son of Brahma; Anasuya – daughter of sage Kardama (according to some texts)
Children: Dattatreya, Durvasa, Chandra (moon god in some legends)
Atri Rishi, one of the Saptarishis, and his wife Anasuya are renowned for their spiritual power, wisdom, and moral strength. Their life is a symbol of dharmic living, devotion, and courage. Anasuya, famed for her chastity and devotion, and Atri, celebrated for his penance and guidance, together protected righteousness and guided humanity.
Atri Rishi performed severe penance and guided humanity in spiritual and moral matters. His wife Anasuya was renowned for her chastity, piety, and unwavering devotion to her husband. Together, they exemplified the ideal sage-family life, combining spiritual discipline with household duties.
Anasuya is particularly famous for her miracles and for testing the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) with her devotion and chastity. The couple is credited with guiding kings, sages, and ordinary people to dharma and spirituality. Their children—Dattatreya (an incarnation of the Trimurti), Durvasa (famed for his temper), and Chandra in some legends—continued their legacy.
Bravery and Achievements:
- Demonstrated spiritual courage by performing severe penance and austerities.
- Resisted evil forces with wisdom and moral strength.
- Performed miracles and served as moral guides for kings, sages, and humanity.
- Upheld dharma in both spiritual and worldly life.
Legacy:
Atri Rishi and Anasuya remain symbols of spiritual bravery, wisdom, devotion, and piety. They are revered in Hindu tradition as the ideal couple balancing spiritual practice and household responsibilities, inspiring generations in dharmic living.
References in Purāṇas:
- Vishnu Purāṇa (Book 1 & 2: Stories of Atri and Anasuya)
- Bhagavata Purāṇa (Canto 9: Miracles and lineage)
- Matsya Purāṇa (Mentions of their spiritual deeds and children)
