The Tale of Sage Kandu and the Enchanting Apsara

The Connection Between Apsaras and Indra

Whenever the topic of apsaras arises, the name of Indra, the king of the gods, inevitably follows. This connection is well-documented in ancient texts, including the Vedas and Puranas, which describe Indra as a deity who often resorted to deceit to achieve his goals.

In one notable instance, Sage Kandu, revered among sages, was engaged in intense meditation by the banks of the Gomati River. Disturbed by Kandu's unwavering devotion, Indra selected the extraordinarily beautiful apsara, Pramlocha, and sent her to disrupt the sage's penance.

Pramlocha was stunning, and her captivating beauty overwhelmed Sage Kandu, leading him to forget his vows and become entranced by her charm.

As a result, Kandu became ensnared in the allure of worldly life, abandoning his rigorous spiritual practices.

With Indra's plan successfully executed, Pramlocha wished to return to heaven. However, Sage Kandu, deeply infatuated, refused to let her leave. Pramlocha, torn between her desire to return and her fear of Kandu's curse, found herself trapped.

One day, Sage Kandu suddenly remembered his spiritual duties and announced his intention to resume his rituals. Pramlocha questioned him, noting that after so many years, he had only now decided to meditate, having lived in worldly attachment.

Kandu responded, expressing disbelief that Pramlocha had arrived only that morning, while she revealed the truth about Indra's involvement and mentioned that she had been there for 907 years. This revelation filled Kandu with regret, realizing that all his spiritual efforts had been in vain.

Ultimately, Sage Kandu recognized his folly, renounced the apsara, and recommitted himself to his meditation.