The story of the marriage of Sage Ashtavakra 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 agreed to the marriage but before that Ashtavakra had to pass a test.
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.