Bharata and Rantideva

Chapter 20, 21

Sukadeva Goswami narrated the dynasty of Puru, in which Maharaja Pariksit was himself born. Dusmanta also appeared in this dynasty.

Once, while hunting, Dusmanta became attracted to Sakuntala, the daughter of Visvamitra and Menaka. They married and united, and subsequently gave birth to Bharata, who was later enthroned as king. Since he performed sacrifices, worshipped the Supreme Lord, gave generously in charity and destroyed the inimical, His reign was considered ideal. His son was Bharadvaja, whose descendant was the charitable and selfless Rantideva.

Rantideva had once gone without food for forty-eight days and was about to open his fast. When a brahmana suddenly appeared, Rantideva unhesitatingly offered him a portion of his meal. Having fulfilled his duty, Rantideva again prepared to eat, at which time a sudra unexpectedly arrived. Rantideva generously divided the remaining food between them and prepared to open his fast for the third time. Just then, another guest appeared. Rantideva offered everything remaining to him, and resolved to drink water. Finally, a thirsty man walked over, to whom Rantideva offered his water! Having generously donated everything, he himself was left with nothing, but joyfully prayed that his life would be dedicated to freeing others from suffering.

Just then, the demigods, who were posing as these different guests, appeared on the scene to congratulate him. Everything was a divine arrangement meant to demonstrate the extraordinary selflessness and tolerance of Krishna’s devotees. Sukadeva Goswami then described the remaining descendants of Bharadvaja.