According to Hindu mythology, Parashurama was born to the sage Jamadagni and his Kshatriya wife, Renuka. Renuka is said to be an exemplary woman known for her devotion and chastity. The story goes that the couple lived in a hut located at Janapav, and they had a celestial cow named Surabhi, which was the daughter of the divine cow Kamadhenu. This cow had the ability to fulfill all their desires.
Parashurama, originally named Ramabhadra, was born into the Bhargava Clan, which was headed by Bhrigu, a prominent sage and one of the Manvantaras of Lord Brahma. The birth of Parashurama is associated with the divine circumstances surrounding his parents and their life in Janapav.
The specifics of Parashurama’s birth involve his mother, Renuka. She was known for her exceptional purity and dedication. According to the legend, Renuka used to fetch water from the river for the sage Jamadagni’s rituals. One day, while she was at the river, she saw Gandharvas (celestial beings) playing and was momentarily captivated by their beauty. This distraction caused a momentary impurity in her mind.
When Renuka returned to the hermitage, Sage Jamadagni, who had divine powers, sensed the change in her thoughts and perceived the impurity. In some versions of the story, this impurity was considered a grave offense. As a result, Jamadagni instructed his sons to behead their mother. While his sons hesitated, Parashurama, unwavering in his devotion to his father, beheaded his mother without any hesitation.
Impressed by Parashurama’s obedience and devotion, Sage Jamadagni granted him a boon. Parashurama then asked for his mother to be revived, and Jamadagni granted this request. This event is said to mark the beginning of Parashurama’s journey and his eventual acquisition of the powerful weapon known as Mahakaal’s Parashu (axe), leading him to become a formidable warrior in later episodes of Hindu mythology.
