Self-Imposed Blindness Gandhari’s decision to blindfold herself for life upon learning that her husband, Dhritarashtra, was blind is one of the most poignant and morally complex actions in the Mahabharata. Although noble in intention, this act of devotion would later be seen as a harbinger of misfortune. The blindfolding of Gandhari symbolized her self-imposed darkness, […]
Character Analysis of Gandhari Gandhari, one of the pivotal characters in the Mahabharata, is a figure of immense complexity and depth. She embodies the virtues and struggles of a devoted wife and mother, while also symbolizing the interplay of fate, duty, and personal agency. Her character embodies the dualities of strength and vulnerability, faith and […]
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 […]