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Paraashar was the grandson of Sage Vashishth. His father Shakti was the son of Vashishth Jee. He was born after Shakti was dead. Once he was crossing Gangaa in the boat of Satyavatee - Matsyagandhaa, the daughter of Daash Raaj fisherman. She used to row boat and carry passenger across Gangaaa River. She smelled like a fish that is why she was called Matsyagandhaa.

As he saw her, an idea arose in his mind and he said to Satyavatee - "Satyavatee, I want to give you a son." Satyavatee said shyly - "Hey Rishivar, I am a maiden, what the world will say about me?" At this Paraashar created smoke around themselves and gave her a son. Since that child was dark in complexion, he was named Krishn; and since he was born on a Dweep (island) he was called Dwaipaayan; thus he was called Krishn Dwaipaayan. Later he became known as Ved Vyaas, because he divided Ved in four parts.

After this Paraashar blessed her with sweet smell which used to go several miles around. After that she got known as Gandhvatee. The King Shaantanu came to her smelling only that sweet smell.