‘The chief of the Yadus was named Shura and he was
Vasudeva’s father. His daughter was named Pritha and her beauty was
matchless on earth.
Earlier, that valorous one had promised his first-born
child to his father’s sister’s son, because this valorous one had no children.
The first-born happened to be a daughter. To do a favour and an act of
friendship to his friend, he gave her to the great-souled Kuntibhoja. In her
father’s house, she was appointed to honour the gods and guests. One day,
she happened to tend to the Brahmana who was rigid in his vows and who
was known as Durvasa. He was fearsome and was learned in the secret
mysteries of dharma. Attending to his needs in every way, she pleased the
self-controlled one. Through his foresight, he knew that she would face the
dharma that is indicated for times of distress and need magic.
The sage
gave her a mantra and said, “Whichever gods you summon through the use
of this mantra, will grant you sons through their grace.” Having been told
this by the Brahmana, she was curious.
‘Though still a virgin, the illustrious one summoned the god Arka. She
immediately saw the sun, who makes the worlds come alive. On seeing that
wonderful sight, the one with the unblemished form was astounded.
Tapana, who spreads light, placed an embryo in her womb. Through him,
she gave birth to a warrior who was supreme among those who knew the
use of all weapons. He was born with natural Armour, blessed with good
fortune and handsome like a son of the gods. His natural Armour and
earrings lit up his face. This son was known in all the worlds as Karna.