Panchakanya

The Panchakanya is a group of five iconic women of the Hindu epics, extolled in a hymn and whose names are believed to dispel sin when recited. They are Ahalya, Draupadi, Kunti, Tara, and Mandodari. While Draupadi and Kunti from the Mahabharata, Ahalya, Tara, and Mandodari are from the Ramayana. The Panchakanya are regarded to be ideal women who exemplify perfect wives in Hinduism. Etymology Panchakanya literally means five kanyas. Kanya may be translated as girl, daughter, maiden, or virgin. Hymn A well-known Sanskrit hymn that defines the Panchakanya runs: Sanskrit transliterationEnglish translation Ahalya, Draupadi, kunti, Tara, and Mandodari One should forever remember the panchakanya who are the destroyers of great sins