Ganga and Shantanu

Long, long ago there lived a prince called Shantanu, who not only ruled wisely but also loved hunting. He had only one sorrow, he couldn't find a maiden beautiful enough to be his maiden. One day, as Shantanu wandered along the banks of the river Ganga, he saw a beautiful maiden sleeping under a tree. Shantanu decided in his heart that he would make none other than this lady his queen. When the beautiful lady woke up Shantanu asked her if she would mind becoming his wife and come and stay with him in his palace. The maiden replied I would love to be your wife but there is a curse that hangs over me. If I consent to be your wife, you must never speak harshly to me whatever I do, for then I shall have to leave you. The prince agreed and took her to his palace.

Soon a son was born to them, but the beautiful maiden threw the son into the river Ganga. The king did not dare say a word. Six more sons were born and the maiden threw all of them into the river Ganga. But when the eighth son was born the king started scolding her. The lady turned to the king, and said I respect you for your patience and you will be rewarded. But I must leave you, for you have spoken harshly to me. I am Ganga, the maiden of the river, the Gods sent me to you. The seven sons I threw into the river were celestials who, by a curse had to be born on earth but desired to be released from this life as soon as they were born. The eighth has been cursed to a long life on earth. Take good care of the child you have saved and call him Gangeya for my sake. Having said these words the goddess vanished and the king returned sadly to the palace. Gangeya was later named Bhishma and became a famous hero.