A King of Candravamsa (Lunar dynasty). He was the father of King Santanu. There is a story behind the birth of the son Santanu to Pratipa.
One day this Rajarsi was worshipping the Sun-god in the waters of the river Ganga, when a beautiful maiden rose from the waters and sat on the right thigh of the royal ascetic. The King was embarrassed and he told her thus:
“Oh sweet girl; who are you? Do you realize what an unrighteous deed you have done? Why did you thus climb on my thigh without seeking my permission? The right thigh is for the daughter and the wife of the son. Since you have thus sat on my right thigh, you shall be the wife of my son when one is born to me.”
Hearing this the maiden jumped out from the thigh of the King and left the place and the King went to his palace.
After some time Pratipa got a son named Santanu. Santanu was none other than emperor Mahabhisaka who was forced to be born on earth due to a curse of Brahma.
When Santanu came of age, Pratipa decided to spend the rest of his life in forests and calling his son to his side gave him all advice and added:
“Son, perhaps a maiden may come to you and if she comes accept her as your wife. Do not ask her about her identity. By making her your truthful wife you will acquire a great many benefits.”
Pratipa, thereafter, entrusted the kingdom to his son and after performing severe penance in the forests attained Divyaloka.
(2nd Skandha, Devi Bhagavata).
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