The conflict between Vishwamitra and Vashistha stemmed from Vishwamitra's desire for Vashistha's wish-fulfilling cow, Kamadhenu, and his ambition to achieve Brahmarishi status, as he initially served as king. This led to a war where Vashistha ultimately prevailed, destroying Vishwamitra's army and later his sons.
Here's a more detailed look at their rivalry:
Initial Conflicts:
Vishwamitra initially challenged Vashistha, but was defeated, losing his army and sons in the process.
Vishwamitra's Tapasya:
Angered, Vishwamitra performed severe penance (tapasya) to appease Lord Shiva, who bestowed him with celestial weaponry.
The Second Conflict:
Vishwamitra used his newfound weapons to attack Vashistha's hermitage, destroying his sons but not Vashistha himself.
Vashistha's Victory:
Vashistha, utilizing his own divine powers and ultimately his Brahmadanda (a magical staff), defeated Vishwamitra's weapons and restored his hermitage.
Forgiveness and Transformation:
Vishwamitra, humbled by his defeat, ultimately sought Vashistha's guidance and forgiveness, becoming a Brahmarishi under his mentorship.
The Desire for Kamadhenu:
King Vishwamitra, later aspiring to become a Brahmarishi, coveted Vashistha's Kamadhenu (wish-fulfilling cow), which could grant any material desire.
The story of their rivalry and subsequent reconciliation highlights themes of ambition, divine power, the importance of forgiveness, and the path to spiritual enlightenment.
This oleographa is one of rarest of rare produced in Circa 1906-10 by Ravi Varma Press Karla Lonvalla
