Pulaha

Pulaha is one of the seven great sages (Saptarishi) in Hindu tradition, revered as a mind-born son (manasaputra) of the creator god Brahma. His origin is described in the Mahabharata (Shanti Parva) and various Puranas, where Brahma creates the Saptarishis from his mind to assist in the work of creation. Pulaha is associated with the Pulaha lineage, a clan of sages who preserved and transmitted Vedic knowledge. In the Rigveda (10.137.1), the Saptarishis are invoked as divine seers, and Pulaha is among them.

The Vishnu Purana (Book 1, Chapter 7) lists Pulaha as one of the Prajapatis, progenitors of mankind, and states that he married Kshama (Patience) and fathered three sons: Karmashreshtha, Variyams, and Sahishnu. The Bhagavata Purana (4.1.36) also mentions Pulaha as a Prajapati who contributed to the proliferation of living beings. Iconographically, Pulaha is depicted as a Vedic sage with matted hair, a beard, and a serene expression, holding a staff (danda) and a japa mala (rosary), symbolizing his ascetic discipline and meditative practice. He is often shown seated in a yogic posture, wearing simple bark or deerskin garments.

In Hindu cosmology, the Saptarishis are considered eternal beings who guide humanity through different epochs (manvantaras). Pulaha is particularly associated with the Svayambhuva Manvantara, where he served as one of the seven sages. Regional worship traditions include reverence in Vedic rituals and homas, where the Saptarishis are invoked for wisdom and spiritual guidance. Temples dedicated to the Saptarishis exist in places like Rishikesh and Varanasi, and Pulaha is honored during the Saptarishi Puja performed on specific lunar days.

His role as a Prajapati underscores his importance in the cosmic order, as he helped populate the world with virtuous beings. The Pulaha lineage is also known for its contributions to Vedic literature and dharma.

Depicted as a Vedic sage.