Dhritarashtra, the blind king of Hastinapura, despite his flaws and limitations, serves as a crucial conduit for some of the Mahabharata’s most important philosophical and ethical teachings. His role as a seeker of knowledge, his curiosity, and his need for guidance create opportunities for the articulation of the Bhagavad Gita, Vidura Niti, and Sanat Sujatheeyam. […]
The life of Dhritarashtra in the Mahabharata offers numerous lessons, highlighting both personal and leadership qualities and their consequences. His story is a rich source of wisdom on the pitfalls of emotional blindness, the importance of moral integrity, and the responsibilities of leadership. Here are some key lessons that can be gleaned from Dhritarashtra’s life: […]
The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epic tales from ancient India, offers a vast array of characters, each with their own complexities, motivations, and enigmas. Among them, Dhritarashtra, the blind king of Hastinapura, stands out as a figure of profound tragedy and mystery. His life, filled with contradictions, moral dilemmas and profound tragedies, offers deep […]
Bhishma’s legacy is a rich tapestry woven with threads of both admirable qualities and questionable choices. Is he a paragon of duty, a tragic figure bound by vows, or a flawed warrior who prioritized loyalty over justice? The Mahabharata offers no simple answers. Bhishma’s character compels readers to grapple with the complexities of morality in […]
In the epic Mahabharata, one character stands out for his unwavering dedication and loyalty to the Kuru kingdom: Bhishma. Renowned for his unparalleled prowess in battle and his unyielding commitment to his word, Bhishma is often hailed as the epitome of loyalty and duty. However, upon closer examination, Bhishma’s loyalty to the Kuru kingdom reveals […]
In the Anusasana Parva, Bhishma imparts wisdom to Yudhishthira, drawing from the teachings of Daksha Prajapati. He emphasizes the importance of showing reverence, kindness, and all forms of pleasant treatment to the bride upon marriage. Male family members, like fathers, brothers, and in-laws, should treat her with respect and give her presents. Such gestures, he […]
Bhishma’s life is marked by extraordinary vow of lifelong celibacy and renunciation of the throne, taken to secure his father, King Shantanu’s, marriage to Satyavati, a fisherwoman. This vow not only exemplifies Bhishma’s selflessness but also sets the stage for the complex dynastic struggles that follow. The enigma lies in Bhishma’s extreme sacrifice for his […]
Bhishma, also known as Bhishma Pitamah or Ganga Putra Bhishma, is one of the most revered and complex characters in Mahabharata. He was born Devavrata, as the son of King Shantanu of Hastinapura and the river goddess Ganga. Having trained under most eminent teachers like Vasishta, Brihaspathi, Shukracharya, Sanal Kumar, and Parasuram, Bhishma is often […]
Bhishma, the grand sire of the Kuru clan in the Mahabharata, is a complex and multifaceted character. Renowned for his unwavering loyalty, unparalleled strength, and adherence to dharma (righteous duty), he remains an enigma due to his puzzling inaction on critical junctures in Mahabharata. This article delves into Bhishma’s vow and the instances where his […]
In the vast tapestry of Indian mythology and epic literature, few characters shine as brightly as Bhishma, the legendary figure from the Mahabharata. His life story is one of unwavering devotion to duty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of righteousness. Born into the illustrious lineage of the Kuru dynasty, Bhishma’s journey traverses the realms of love, […]