Price of theft

Sage Vashishta possessed a cow called Nandini.This cow was capable of producing great riches to its possessor. One day 8 brothers called Vasus , came to Ashram of sage Vashistha, accompanied by their wives. When one of the ladies beheld Nandini, the cow of plenty, she became desirous of possessing it. Now the Vasu knew that the cow belonged to the Rishi. So he tried to persuade his wife to forget about the cow.But all his efforts went in vain.With the help of his brothers he stole the cow.Sage Vashishtha was shocked when he came to knew about the loss.With his divine power he able to knew about the culprit.In his anger he cursed them to be reborn on earth.When the Vasu's came to know of the about curse, they became terrified, and begged the Rishi for forgiveness.The sage softened and replied, "My curse cannot be reverted. The seven of you who have obeyed your brother's orders, shall not have to bear the sufferings for long. However, Dyu(one of the 8 brothes), who is the real culprit, will have to suffer his curse for a long time. However, he will be a great warrior, and will not have any children." .Dyu holds a very important role in the story of Mahabharata as he born as the son of Goddess Ganga who later known as “Bhishma”. It was due to this curse Bhishma remained unmarried and had no children.After his death in the battle of Mahabharta he left for heaven.