the quantum leap into

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the scriptures (Vedas) and one day criticized
(humbly though) the bad pronunciations of his
father Kahoda, who used to recite the Vedas
daily. Kahoda a renowned scholar that he
was, got infuriated by the audacity of his
unborn son and cursed him to be born with
eightfold deformity and contortions.
Soon enough Kahoda left for the court
of King Janaka where scholars who proved
their worth were normally rewarded with
immense riches. Ashtavakra, who became
enlightened by the time he was twelve years
old, one day walked into the court of King
Janaka who was discussing philosophy with
many renowned philosophers, scholars and
saints. On seeing the ambling distorted gait of
Ashtavakra and his physical contortions while
walking, the entire assembly including the
King burst into laughter. Ashtavakra also
laughed, the loudest of all. When enquired
about the reason for his laughter, Ashtavakra
retorted ""I came thinking that I was walking
into an assembly of philosophers and