Story of Dushyanta and Sakuntala

The founder of the Paurava line was Dushyanta, who was exuberant and dynamic. He protected the land surrounded by the four seas and ruled over all four corners of the world. He also governed regions in the sea and had power over the lands of the Mlechchhas (foreigners, non-Aryan people, people of inferior caste).

During his reign, there were no mixed castes, no need for farmers (because the land produced on its own), no miners (because the earth provided everything), and no sinful men. Everyone acted virtuously, with good intentions. There were no thieves, famines, or diseases. People enjoyed doing their duties and didn’t perform religious acts just for their desires. They trusted and felt safe with him as their king. Indra provided rain at the right time, and the fields produced juicy crops. The earth was full of wealth and Brahmanas did their duties sincerely. The youthful king was powerful and could lift mountains. He was skilled in all weapons and riding animals. In strength, he was like Vishnu, in splendour like the sun, in depth like the ocean, and in patience like the earth. His subjects loved him, and he ruled them virtuously.

One day, King Dushyanta, with a large force, entered the forest for hunting. Hundreds of soldiers, horses, and elephants accompanied him. The army made a loud noise as they marched, with warriors and attendants making a serious pandemonium. Beautiful ladies watched the king from their terraces and admired him, believing him to be as powerful as the god Indra. They showered him with flowers. He wandered, killing many animals with his weapons. The forest became empty of lions, tigers, and other wild beasts. The animals, in fear, fled and fell, exhausted and thirsty. Many fell victim to the warriors, who killed and consumed them.

King Dushyanta then moved to another forest, entering a large desert first. He crossed the plain and found a beautiful forest full of ascetic retreats. The forest was delightful, with soft grass, blossoming trees, and cool breezes. It was home to many birds, animals, and ascetics. The king felt immense joy and forgot his hunger and thirst. He entered the forest, leaving his army behind, and explored the sacred place with his minister and priest. The forest was like heaven, filled with the sounds of sacred chants and learned Brahmanas. The beauty and holiness of the forest amazed the king. He saw many Brahmanas engaged in their rituals and studies, and the forest echoed with their sacred hymns and mantras. The king, accompanied by his minister and priest, entered the retreat of the well known Rishi Kanwa, eager to meet him. The retreat, shielded by the Rishi’s virtues, was a sanctuary of profound peace and holiness. The king was so impressed by the sacred place that he wished to see more.

King Dushyanta left his few followers at the entrance of the hermitage and went in alone. He didn’t see the Rishi Kanwa, and the place seemed empty. He called out, ‘Is anyone here?’ His voice echoed back. A beautiful maiden, dressed as an ascetic’s daughter, came out and welcomed him. She offered him a seat, water for his feet, and Arghya, and asked about his well-being. Then she asked, ‘What can I do for you, O king?’ The king said, ‘I came to see the Rishi Kanwa. Where is he?’ Sakuntala replied, ‘My father is out gathering fruit. Please wait, and he will be back soon.’ The king noticed how beautiful she was, with sweet smiles and perfect features. He asked, ‘Who are you? Whose daughter are you? Why are you in the forest? You are so beautiful and virtuous. Where did you come from? At first sight, you have captured my heart! Tell me everything about you.’

Smiling, the maiden replied, ‘O King Dushyanta, I am the daughter of the wise and high-souled Rishi Kanwa.’ Dushyanta, surprised, said, ‘How can you be his daughter when he is a strict ascetic? This puzzles me greatly. Please explain.’ Sakuntala said, ‘Listen, O king, to what my father told another Rishi about my birth.

Once, the mighty ascetic Vishwamitra was performing severe penances, which alarmed Indra, the chief of the gods. Indra summoned Menaka, the celestial nymph, and asked her to tempt Vishwamitra and break his penance. Menaka was afraid because of Vishwamitra’s power and temper, but agreed to try with Indra’s help. Menaka went to Vishwamitra’s retreat and started playing before him. At that moment, the god of the wind took away her garments, making her appear bashful and beautiful. Vishwamitra saw her and, overcome by desire, invited her to be with him. They spent a long time together, and Menaka became pregnant. She gave birth to me, Sakuntala, on the banks of the river Malini and left me there. Vultures protected me until Rishi Kanwa found me during his ablution. He took me in and raised me as his daughter. He named me Sakuntala because I was protected by birds (Shakunt’s). Thus, I became his daughter, and I regard him as my father. This is the story my father told the Rishi about my birth, O king. I am Kanwa’s daughter, as you now understand.

King Dushyanta heard her and said, ‘Well spoken, princess! Be my wife, beautiful one. I will give you golden garlands, robes, earrings, pearls, coins, carpets, and my entire kingdom. Marry me in the Gandharva way, which is the best form of marriage for us. Sakuntala replied, ‘My father has gone to get fruit. Please wait until he returns to bless our marriage.’ Dushyanta responded, ‘I want you to be my wife. I exist for you and love you deeply. According to the laws, you can marry me yourself. There are eight types of marriages, and the Gandharva form is perfect for Kshatriyas like us. Sakuntala said, ‘If this is right, then hear my condition. Our son must be your heir. If you agree, we can marry.’ The king agreed immediately and promised to take her to his capital. They married, and Dushyanta assured her before leaving, saying he would send his troops to escort her. After he left, he thought about what the sage Kanwa would say when he found out. He returned to his capital with these thoughts.

Kanwa returned and saw everything with his spiritual powers. He blessed Sakuntala, saying, ‘Your secret marriage has not harmed your virtue. The Gandharva marriage is best for Kshatriyas. Your son will be mighty and rule over the sea.’ Sakuntala then served her father, who blessed Dushyanta and his ministers for her sake.

After Dushyanta left the hermitage with promises to Shakuntala, she gave birth to a boy of immense energy. By the time the child was three, he shone as brightly as a blazing fire. The boy was beautiful, magnanimous, and accomplished. The virtuous Kanwa ensured all religious rites were performed for the intelligent child who thrived daily. The boy, with pearly teeth, shining locks, and the strength to slay lions, had auspicious signs on his palm and a broad forehead, growing in beauty and strength. Like a celestial child, he rapidly matured. By six, he exhibited great strength, tying lions, tigers, bears, buffaloes, and elephants to trees and playfully riding and pursuing animals. The residents of Kanwa’s hermitage named him Sarvadamana (the subduer of all) due to his ability to restrain even the strongest animals. Recognizing his prowess, Kanwa decided it was time to install the boy as heir-apparent and instructed his disciples to escort Shakuntala and her son to her husband’s abode, warning that prolonged stays in parental homes harm a woman’s reputation and virtue.

Kanwa’s disciples obeyed and took Shakuntala and her son to the city of Hastinapura. Shakuntala, with her celestial-looking son, approached the king, who was introduced to them by Kanwa’s disciples. Shakuntala worshipped the king and revealed, “This is your son, O king! Let him be installed as your heir-apparent. Fulfil the promise you made to me in Kanwa’s hermitage.”

Hearing this, Dushyanta denied any recollection, accusing her of deceit and questioning their connection. Shakuntala, humiliated, stood like a wooden post, grief-stricken. Soon, her eyes reddened with anger, and she addressed the king fiercely, reminding him of his promise and the divine witness of Narayana in his heart. She rebuked him for his dishonesty and warned him of the consequences of denying his own son, highlighting the virtues of a wife and mother and the sacred bond between husband and wife. Despite her passionate plea, Dushyanta continued to deny her claims, dismissing her words as deceitful. Shakuntala, undeterred, defended her lineage and the purity of her son, emphasizing the significance of a son in carrying forward one’s legacy and the importance of truth.

As Shakuntala departed, a celestial voice confirmed her words, urging Dushyanta to accept his son. The voice proclaimed that a son is the father reborn and should be cherished. Hearing this, Dushyanta rejoiced, embraced his son, and performed all fatherly rites. He then affectionately reconciled with Shakuntala, acknowledging his prior caution to establish her purity. Dushyanta named the boy Bharata and formally installed him as heir-apparent. Bharata, with his invincible chariot wheels, subdued all kings of the Earth, ruled virtuously, and performed many sacrifices with Kanwa as the chief priest. The monarch’s great achievements led to the naming of the Bharata race after him, producing numerous godlike kings devoted to truth and honesty. Their illustrious lineage continued with countless renowned monarchs.

The story of Dushyanta and Shakuntala from the Mahabharata is rich in lessons and moral teachings. We can learn some life lessons from this story.

Virtuous Leadership: prosperity, peace, and virtue marked King Dushyanta’s reign. His rule exemplifies how a just and virtuous leader can bring about harmony and abundance in society.

Respect for promises: The story emphasizes the importance of keeping promises. Dushyanta initially forgets his promise to Shakuntala, but ultimately, divine intervention reminds him of his duty. This teaches us the value of honouring our commitments.

Divine Justice: The celestial voice that confirms Shakuntala’s words serves as a reminder that truth and justice will ultimately prevail, even if temporarily obscured.

The Power of Love and Duty: Shakuntala’s unwavering love for Dushyanta and her sense of duty towards her son highlight the strength of maternal love and the responsibilities that come with relationships.

Righteous Conduct: The story underscores the importance of righteous conduct and moral integrity. Dushyanta is eventually recognized and celebrated for his virtues and just rule, reinforcing that virtuous living is ultimately rewarding.

Patience and Perseverance: Shakuntala’s patience in waiting for Dushyanta’s return and her perseverance in proving her son’s legitimacy demonstrate the power of patience and determination in overcoming adversity.

The Role of Fate and Destiny: The story reflects the belief in fate and divine will. Despite human actions and mistakes, destiny plays a crucial role, as seen in how Bharata, the son of Dushyanta and Shakuntala, becomes a great ruler.

Respect for Women: Shakuntala’s plight and her dignified stance remind us of the importance of respecting women and recognizing their contributions and sacrifices.

Value of Family and Legacy: The narrative shows the significance of family ties and the legacy we leave behind. Bharata’s achievements and the naming of the Bharata race after him underline the importance of one’s lineage and legacy.

Spiritual Guidance: The blessings and guidance of sages like Kanwa highlight the importance of spiritual mentorship and living a life in harmony with spiritual principles.

Responsibility for one’s actions: The story emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s choices, especially in relationships and parenthood.

The power of forgiveness and reconciliation: The story ends with Dushyanta reconciling with Shakuntala, showing the healing power of forgiveness.

The importance of raising children well: The description of Bharata’s upbringing and accomplishments highlights the significance of proper parenting and education.

The lasting impact of one’s actions: Bharata’s legacy in founding a great dynasty shows how one’s actions can have far-reaching consequences for future generations.

These lessons collectively remind us of the timeless values of truth, duty, virtue, family values, social responsibility, the enduring nature of truth and justice and the significance of moral integrity in personal and societal contexts.