E793. King Janmejay's Revenge

Goddess Parvati mentions a special purpose of Mansa Devi and Aastik's birth. She narrates the story of King Janmejay. Earlier, Janmejay's father, a thirsty King Parikshit, accidentally throws a dead snake at Rishi Shamik, who, deep in meditation, neglects to serve him water. As Rishi Shrangi witnesses King Parikshit's actions, he curses him to die with Takshak snake's bite. Hence, to avenge his father's death, King Janmejay commences the Great Sacrificial Fire to kill all the snakes in the world.