Vishwamitra

Vishwamitra was a Kshatriya king who perceived the immortal realms beyond the kingdom of the earth. His confrontation with the Rishi, Vasishtha, convinced him of the superiority of the spiritual power over material strength and he set out to make it his. Even when he was given the status of Rajarshi, he was not content because the word meant a Rishi, who was born a Kshatriya and was considered inferior to a Brahmarshi-a Brahman who has become a Rishi. The tortuous paths that Vishwamitra had to tread, to gain mastery over the passions to reach spiritual heights, are described in detail to give us a glimpse of the glory of the Rishis. His story is inspiring, particularly to us who have chosen to name our country after Bharata, the grandson of Vishwamitra.