Sabala: The Wish-Fulfilling Cow

There is a long-standing history between these two Maharshis. In the past, when Vishwamitra was a wicked king, he once visited Vashishth's ashram with a large entourage. Yet, they were all provided with lavish hospitality in a short time. Vishwamitra was astonished at how Vashishth managed this and questioned him about the secret behind it. Vashishth pointed to a sacred cow named Sabala, the daughter of the great cow Kamadhenu, who had the power to fulfill any desire. The king wanted Sabala for himself, but Vashishth, unmoved by any persuasion or intimidation, refused to part with his beloved cow. Enraged, King Vishwamitra ordered his soldiers to seize Sabala. In response, she pleaded with Vashishth for help. Vashishth advised her to summon more soldiers than Vishwamitra had. Sabala did so, and ultimately, Vishwamitra's forces were defeated.