Raivata, Son of Revata

Raivata, also known as Kakudmi or Kakudmin was the King of Kusasthali and the son of Revata. He was of gentle natured personality and a kind ruler. Although considered human, Raivata was gifted with supernatural powers, not found in ordinary human being. Raivata is related in many mythological texts such as the Mahabharata, the Harivamsa, the Devi Bhagavatam and the Bhagavata Purana.

King Revata, father of Raivata constructed the city of Kusasthali and ruled from there. The kingdom of Kusasthali was situated below the ocean. Kusasthali grew to become a prosperous and advanced kingdom.

Lineage of Raivata
Raivata was a progeny of the Sun Dynasty or Suryavansha. The Sun Dynasty originated from Sun or the Hindu deity Lord Surya. Raivata was the descendant of Ikshwaku. Raivata was the father of Revati, who was married to Balarama.

Revati, Daughter of Raivata
Raivata had one very beautiful daughter named Revati. She was endowed with all auspicious and lucky qualities. She was so beautiful and so accomplished that when she reached a marriageable age, Raivata, thinking no one upon earth was worthy of her, went to the Creator Lord Brahma, to seek his advice about a suitable husband for his daughter. Raivata was able to take his daughter Revati with him and travel to Brahma Loka which is transcendental to the three modes of material nature.

When they arrived, Brahma was listening to a musical performance by the Gandharvas Haha and Huhu, so they waited patiently until the performance was finished. Then, Kakudmi bowed humbly, made his request and presented his shortlist of candidates. Brahma laughed loudly, and said that all those whom he has decided to accept as his son-in-law have died in the course of time. 27 Chatur Yugas have already passed. However, Brahma comforted him, and added that Lord Vishnu, the preserver, was currently incarnate on earth in the forms of Krishna and Balarama, and he recommended Balarama as a worthy husband for Revati. At the command of that Brahma he bestowed her upon Balarama. He was king of Anarta, and built the city of Kusasthali or Dwaraka in Gujarat, which he made his capital.

After the marriage of Revati, Raivata considered that he has completed his fatherly duties by giving his daughter"s hand to Balarama. Brahma recommended Raivata to lead the life of a sage. Raivata went to the Himalayas and to Badrinath and engaged himself in meditation and ascetic practices. At the time of death, he left off his mortal coil on the banks of the river and went to the world of Gods.