Summary
Biography
Full Name: Sagara Maharaja
Era: Treta Yuga (Pre-Ramayana)
Parents: Aja (father), King of the Ikshvaku dynasty
Spouse: Keshini and Sumati
Children: 60,000 sons (born to Sumati), notable descendants include Bhagiratha
Sagara Maharaja, the powerful king of the Suryavansha dynasty, is known for his courage, devotion, and righteous rule. According to Purāṇas, he undertook heroic endeavors, fought demons, and expanded his kingdom, establishing a strong and dharmic lineage that eventually led to Bhagiratha, the great ancestor who brought the Ganga to earth.
King Sagara ascended the throne of the Ikshvaku dynasty and ruled with valor and righteousness. He performed grand yajnas (sacrificial rituals) to honor the gods. During one such yajna, his 60,000 sons were sent to search for the sacrificial horse that had been stolen by a demon. They discovered the horse at Patala (netherworld) and were burned to ashes by the demon.
Sagara’s devotion and grief inspired later generations; his descendant Bhagiratha performed severe penance to bring the Ganga river to earth to liberate the souls of these sons. Sagara is remembered not only for his bravery but also for his role in establishing a dharmic and prosperous kingdom.
Bravery and Achievements:
- Fought demons and protected his kingdom from evil forces.
- Expanded the Suryavansha dynasty and established a prosperous kingdom.
- Performed heroic deeds and grand yajnas to honor the gods.
- Ancestor of Bhagiratha, who brought Ganga to earth to redeem Sagara’s sons.
Legacy:
King Sagara is celebrated as a brave and righteous ruler whose courage, devotion, and moral leadership set the foundation for future generations of the Suryavansha dynasty. He remains a symbol of heroism, dharma, and devotion in Hindu tradition.
References in Purāṇas:
- Vishnu Purāṇa (Book 2: Story of King Sagara and his sons)
- Bhagavata Purāṇa (Canto 9: Sagara’s deeds and legacy)
- Matsya Purāṇa (Details of Sagara’s rule and yajnas)
