Vamadeva

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Vamadeva is a sage in Hindu texts. He is credited with authoring Mandala 4 of the Rigveda and is mentioned in the Upanishads, especially the Brihadaranyaka and the Aitareya. He is said to be the son of the sage Gotama and brother of Nodhasa, who is also linked to Rigveda hymns. Some sources say he is the father of Brihaduktha and belongs to the line of Sage Angiras. The name Vamadeva is a bahuvrihi compound meaning “he whose God is beautiful.”

Key stories about Vamadeva

- In the Mahabharata, King Shala from the Solar dynasty visits Vamadeva’s hermitage to borrow swift horses called vamya. Vamadeva lends them on the condition that they be returned after the hunt. Shala does not return them and keeps them in his palace. After some time, Vamadeva goes to demand them back. When the king refuses, Vamadeva warns him not to clash with Brahmins. The king offers other animals instead and calls Vamadeva unworthy of the vamya horses. Vamadeva curses Shala to be killed by rakshasas, and Shala is slain. Shala’s brother Dala becomes king and also refuses to give back the horses, plotting to kill Vamadeva with a poisoned arrow. Vamadeva foils the plot. The new king repents, and Vamadeva says the sin could be forgiven if the queen allows him to touch the arrow. The queen asks for forgiveness for her husband and promises to serve Brahmins. Vamadeva grants the boon, and Dala returns the horses. The sage also shares guidance on righteousness with King Vasumanas.

- In the Ganesha Purana, Vamadeva curses a gandharva who trampled him, turning the gandharva into a mouse. When asked for mercy, the sage says the mouse will become the mount (vahana) of Ganesha.

- In early Buddhist texts, the Buddha lists ancient rishis, including Vamadeva, among others. He often questions their authority, comparing them to a line of blind men.