According to Hindu scriptures, marriage is often seen as an important stage of life (Grihastha Ashrama), especially for continuing family lineage, fulfilling duties to ancestors (Pitru Runa), and supporting dharma. However, not marrying does not automatically mean something bad will happen—many sages chose celibacy and spiritual life. It depends on one’s path and purpose.
The story of Jaratkaru gives a spiritual lesson about responsibility toward ancestors.
Mahabharata tells the story of Maharshi Jaratkaru, a great sage who lived a life of strict penance and had decided never to marry. He was deeply devoted to spirituality and had renounced worldly life.
One day, while traveling, he saw a strange sight. He found his ancestors (Pitru Devatas) hanging upside down over a deep pit, supported only by a thin grass root that was slowly being eaten by a rat.
Shocked, Jaratkaru asked them
Who are you, and why are you suffering like this?
The ancestors replied:
“We are your forefathers. Because our family lineage is ending with you, we are in this condition. If you do not marry and have children, no one will continue the lineage or perform ancestral duties.”
Hearing this, Maharshi Jaratkaru felt responsible. Though he preferred a spiritual life, he decided to marry for dharma and family duty, not personal desire.
Later, he married Jaratkaru (the sister of Vasuki). They had a son named Astika, who later performed a great role in stopping King Janamejaya’s serpent sacrifice and saving the serpent race.
The message is not simply “everyone must marry.” Instead, it teaches
Responsibility matters — fulfilling duties toward family and ancestors was considered important.
Everyone has a different life path — some follow family life, while others choose true spiritual renunciation.
Purpose matters — Jaratkaru married out of dharma, not pressure or fear.
In modern life, if someone does not marry, it does not mean a curse or punishment. Hindu traditions generally say that living a righteous, meaningful life and caring for others is also important. The Jaratkaru story is mainly a lesson about balancing spirituality with responsibility.
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