Vishvamitra

Ancient Hindu sage VishvamitraVishvamitra by Raja Ravi VarmaTitleBrahmarishi, Rajarshi, SaptarshiPersonal lifeBornKaushikaChildrenMany children including Madhuchhanda, Ashtaka, Shunahshepa, Sushruta, and ShakuntalaParentGādhi (father)Notable workGayatri MantraReligious lifeReligionHinduism Vishvamitra (Sanskrit: विश्वामित्र, IAST: Viśvāmitra) is a legendary figure in Hindu mythology, and one of the most venerated rishis or sages of ancient India. Vishvamitra is one of the seven Brahmarshi. According to Hindu tradition, he is stated to have written most of the Mandala 3 of the Rigveda, including the Gayatri Mantra (3.62.10). The Puranas mention that only 24 rishis since antiquity have understood the whole meaning of —and thus wielded the whole power of — the Gayatri Mantra. Vishvamitra is supposed to have been the first, and Yajnavalkya the last. Before renouncing his kingdom and royal status, Brahmarishi Vishvamitra was a king, and thus he retained the title of Rajarshi, or 'royal sage'. Textual background Historically, Viśvāmitra Gāthina was a Rigvedic rishi who was the chief author of Mandala 3 of the Rigveda. Viśvāmitra was taught by Jamadagni B