CharacterIkshvaku ancestors
Kalmashapada: FAQ & Sources
कल्माषपादKing of the Ikshvaku line. Also called Saudasa, Mitrasaha.
Kalmashapada, also called Saudasa, is an Ikshvaku king cursed by the sage Vasishtha to become a man-eating rakshasa. Valmiki tells Shatrughna his story at the hermitage on the night Lava and Kusha are born.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Kalmashapada?
An Ikshvaku king, also called Saudasa, cursed by Vasishtha to become a rakshasa.
Why is he called Kalmashapada?
He let curse-laden water fall on his own feet, which became spotted.
Sources
- Valmiki Ramayana, Uttara Kanda (sargas 7.65)
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