Nahusha

Indra was happy having killed Vritra but was still sad as he had killed a brahman, the three headed son of Twasta. Full of guilt, he went into hiding.

As soon as Indra vanished, the earth went into turmoil. Trees began falling, rivers became dry and animals and people were in distress. The Gods and sages were afraid. The universe had no ruler. The great sages suggested that Nahusha be invited from earth and he be made king.


Nahusha, in all humility said he was not the right person for this. The sages and the Gods said they felt he was the best choice. They said they would guide Nahusha.  They said fear would be there when doing something different, but that would have to be overcome.

Nahusha became the king, but the heavenly pleasures took over him. He began enjoying the company of the apsaras. He enjoyed the beautiful breeze that blew and the songs that the bards sang.

One day Nahusha saw, Sachi, queen of Indra and wanted her for himself. He asked her to come and visit him. Sachi went the priest, Brihaspati, for advise. The priest asked her to stay with him, promising her that she would would soon be united with Indra.

When Nahusha heard that Sachi was with Brihaspati, he was enraged. How could Sachi refuse the king of heaven? Seeing him angry, the Gods and sages asked Nahusha to control his anger and be happy with what he had. Taking another's wife was a sin.
Nahusha said - If this is a sin, then why was Indra not prevented when he tried to rape Ahalya?

The Gods said they would bring Sachi to him.

They went to Brihaspati and asked him to help. Brihaspati said he would help the one who had sought his protection. The Gods then sat with Brihaspati and decided on the course of action.