King Prateep was meditating at the riverbank while   Ganga – the beautiful deity of the river – emerged from water and sat on king's lap.

King Prateep asked: "Oh beautiful lady, what do you want?"

"You, O the mightiest of the Kurus! I want you": Ganga replied.

"I am an emperor. Not available for just anybody": Prateep did not show much interest in her.

"I am Ganga – the river goddess. Not just anybody": Ganga said.

The king said: "Ganga! You sat on my right thigh -- place for children or daughter-in-laws. Why don't you be my daughter-in-law?".

Ganga said: "I would be happy to be your daughter-in-law. But your son must not deny whatever I do."

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Prateep and his wife had been trying for a baby.

King Mahavish who had been banished from heaven by Brahma was born as their son. His name was Shantanu.

When Shantanu grew up, Prateep told him: "Son, before your birth, a beautiful lady came to me once. She agreed to be your woman. If she comes to you ever again, please fulfill her wish. But remember: never deny whatever she does. That was our pact".

Soon afterward Prateep relinquished the throne for Shantanu and retired to the forest.