Jamdagni was born as a son to Bhrigu dynasty’s Trichik. Jamdagni is considered to be one of the Sapt Rishis (the seven great saints). He was married to King Prasenjit’s daughter, Renuka. Saint Jamdagni acquired a respected and influential position in the society because of his skills, talent and worship. He was respected by everyone. Saint Jamdagni was passionate and energetic. He had five sons who were named, Rukmavan, Sukhen, Vasu, Vishwavanas and Parshuram.

According to legends, there was time when the Earth was ruled by Kings belonging to the Haihaya dynasty. They were merciless and all the people were terrified of them. All the saints and sadhus were unsafe. These Kings started disrespecting the religious rituals and always created problems. At this time, Saint Jamdagni performed a yagya which impressed god. As a result, he was blessed with five sons. Saint Jamdagni’s son, Parshuram killed all the Haihaya Kings.

Jamdagni and Kartavirya Arjun

Kartavirya Arjun belonged to the Haihaya dynasty and was a merciless king. He once visited Saint Jamdagni’s asylum. Arjun realized the immense importance and speciality of Kamdhenu cow and wanted to take it with him. But Saint Jamdagni did not give him the permission to do so. Kartavirya Arjun was furious due to this rejection. He killed Saint Jamdagni and took Kamdhenu with him.

Parshuram desired vengeance and killed Kartavirya Arjun. He also brought Kamdhenu back to the asylum. Parshuram vowed that he would kill all the Kshatriyas from the face of the Earth. He travelled the whole planet to do so and killed Kshatriyas 21 times.

Jamdagni and Renuka

Saint Jamdagni and Renuka were happily married for a long time. Renuka was totally devoted toward her husband and loved him a lot. But, due to one petty mistake, their relationship was destroyed and Saint Jamdagni gave her a death sentence. According to a legend, Renuka once visited a river to get some water for a Yagya. At the same time, Gandharva Chitra Rath was in the river with some Apsaras. Renuka was quite amazed to see them. As a result, there was a delay in bringing the water. By the time she reached back, the time of Yagya had already passed. Due to this, Saint Jamdagni asked his sons to kill Renuka.

All the sons, except Parshuram, denied killing their own mother. Saint Jamdagni was furious and killed his kids. Parshuram followed his father’s direction and killed Renuka. Saint Jamdagni was impressed with Parshuram’s devotion and asked what he desired. Parshuram said that he wanted Saint Jamdagni to give back life to Renuka and forgive his other sons. As a result, Saint Jamdagni gave back life to his sons and Renuka.