Shanta, the often overlooked character in the Indian epic Ramayana, held a unique place in the tale. She was the eldest daughter of King Dasaratha and Queen Kaushalya. King Dasaratha, gave Shanta in adoption to King Romapada of Anga Rajya, who was childless. Shanta’s upbringing was comprehensive, involving the study of Vedas, arts, crafts, and even warfare, alongside her renowned beauty.
An intriguing incident involving Shanta occurred when a Brahmin, a devout follower of Indra, visited Angadesh seeking alms from King Romapada. Unfortunately, the King was deeply engrossed in a conversation with Princess Shanta and neglected the Brahmin. Indra, displeased by this slight to his devotee, caused a drought in the kingdom, which only abated after King Romapada conducted a yagna with the assistance of Rishi Rishyashringa.
Shanta eventually wed Rishyashringa, the sage renowned for his mystical abilities. Their union had a pivotal role as it was Rishyashringa’s presence that enabled King Dasharatha to successfully perform the Putrakameshthi Yagya, leading to the birth of Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna.
Devi Shanta is venerated at the Shringa Rishi temple in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, located 50 kilometers from Kullu. This temple also houses an idol of Goddess Shanta, where both Shanta and her husband Shringa Rishi are worshipped together.
