The story of Sage Ashtavakra’s marriage is found in the Anusasana Parva of the Mahabharata. The sage wanted to marry Suprabha, daughter of Sage Vadanya. Ashtavakra disclosed his love for Suprabha to her father. Sage Vadanya decided to test Ashtavakra before giving his daughter’s hand.
Ashtavakra should go north to the Himalayas pay homage to Shiva and Parvati and further go north and talk to a beautiful woman residing there. When Ashtavakra returns successfully, he will win the hands of Suprabha.
Sage Ashtavakra accepted the challenge and he went north. First, he went to the palace of Kubera. Here, the treasurer of the gods entertained him. He then went further north and had darshan of Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
He then went further north and met a beautiful woman named Uttara. The woman tried to entice Ashtavakra in many ways. But the Sage did not fall for her tricks. Finally, Uttara asked the sage to marry her.
Ashtavakra denied her request by saying that he was in love with Suprabha and will only marry her.
Uttara was pleased with the Sage and revealed her true form. She was the queen of the north and was testing the fidelity of the sage.
She then blessed the sage and helped him in his early return.
Sage Ashtavakra successfully returned and married Suprabha.
