[1] According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, a sage named Jaratkaru was wandering a forest when he came across his Pitrs (spirits of his forefathers), hanging over a precipice of blades of grass.

In a bid to save his Pitrs from their ordeal, Jaratkaru decided to marry a woman who shared his name.

At the site of Pushkara, one evening, Jaratkaru slept upon the lap of his wife, and had not performed his prayers at dusk.

Facing the dilemma of having to disturb the sleep of her husband so that he may perform his duty, she chose to rouse him.

When Manasa begged for his forgiveness, Jaratkaru informed her that she was pregnant with his child, and proclaimed that he would be brilliant and devoted.