Religion 101: Mahabharata Part 2 – The Essential Protagonists

In the 2013 television adaptation of the Mahabharata, titled ‘Mahabharat’, the epic’s narrative centers around the Pandavas, consisting of the five brothers Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva, along with their shared spouse, Draupadi. This retelling brings to life the ancient tale, weaving the complex relationships and moral dilemmas faced by these central characters. Image source: Pinterest

Read Part 1 here

The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of ancient India, is replete with a multitude of characters, each contributing significantly to the narrative’s depth and complexity. Central to the story are the Pandavas and Kauravas, two families locked in a bitter conflict.

.

In the 2012 animated film “Arjuna, the Warrior Prince,” a pivotal scene vividly brings to life the tale of Arjuna’s prowess from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. It depicts the moment when Arjuna, with his unwavering focus and mastery in archery, strings the mighty bow and aims at the reflective fish target, only visible through water, to win the hand of Princess Draupadi. This scene not only showcases Arjuna’s exceptional skills but also encapsulates the themes of determination and destiny that are central to the epic narrative. The animation captures the tension and the triumph of this legendary event, leaving a lasting impression of Arjuna’s heroic feat.

The Pandavas

The Pandavas are renowned figures from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, consisting of five brothers: Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva. They were the sons of King Pandu of Kuru and his wives Kunti and Madri, but mythologically, they were fathered by different deities due to Pandu’s curse which prevented him from siring heirs.

Their lives were marked by trials and triumphs, including a shared marriage to Draupadi, the building of the city of Indraprastha, and the epic Kurukshetra War against their cousins, the Kauravas, which they ultimately won with divine assistance.

Yudhishthira

Yudhishthira is a pivotal figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata, renowned as the eldest of the Pandavas, the sons of King Pandu and Queen Kunti. His birth, attributed to the union between Kunti and the deity Yama, the god of righteousness, set the stage for his future role as a paragon of virtue known as Dharmaraja.

Yudhishthira’s life is marked by trials and tribulations, including the infamous game of dice, where he lost his kingdom, his brothers, and Draupadi, leading to their exile. Despite such adversities, he remained steadfast in his adherence to dharma (moral and righteous duty), which is exemplified in the Yaksha Prashna, a series of philosophical questions posed by his father Yama in disguise.

His leadership during the Kurukshetra War and his eventual ascension to the throne of Hastinapura symbolize his unwavering commitment to duty and righteousness. Yudhishthira’s reign is celebrated for its justice and prosperity, and his eventual renunciation of the throne and journey towards heaven reflect the culmination of a life dedicated to upholding dharma.

Bhima

Bhima is a central character in the epic Mahabharata, known for his immense strength and valor. He is the second of the five Pandava brothers, sons of King Pandu and Queen Kunti. Bhima’s birth is attributed to the wind god Vayu, which accounts for his incredible physical prowess, often equated to the strength of ten thousand elephants.

Throughout the Mahabharata, Bhima is portrayed as a figure of great might, with a fierce rivalry against his cousins, the Kauravas, particularly Duryodhana. His life is marked by numerous heroic feats, including the slaying of demons such as Bakasura and Hidimba, and during the great war of Kurukshetra, he was responsible for killing all hundred Kaurava brothers.

Bhima’s character is complex; despite his fearsome abilities and temper, he is also depicted as having a soft heart, especially towards his family and loved ones. His marriages to Hidimbi, Draupadi, and Valandhara, and his children, including the mighty Ghatotkacha, add depth to his persona, making him a multifaceted warrior-hero of the ancient Indian narrative.

Arjuna

Arjuna is a central figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata, known for his prowess as an archer and his quest for truth and righteousness. As the third of the five Pandava brothers, Arjuna’s life is marked by his exceptional martial skills, deep moral dilemmas, and profound spiritual journey.

His chariot, drawn by white horses, symbolizes his pure and heroic nature. Arjuna’s father was the god Indra, and his mother was Kunti, the wife of King Pandu. His divine lineage granted him extraordinary abilities, making him a formidable warrior on the battlefield. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, unfolds as a dialogue between Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and spiritual guide.

On the eve of the great battle of Kurukshetra, Arjuna is filled with doubt about fighting his relatives and teachers. In response, Krishna imparts to him the teachings of duty, righteousness, and the nature of the soul, which form the core of the Gita’s philosophical and theological framework.

Arjuna’s character embodies the human struggle to uphold dharma (duty and morality) while navigating the complexities of life. His story continues to inspire and guide individuals in their own journeys toward understanding and fulfilling their roles in the world.

Nakula

Nakula is a significant character in the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. He was the fourth of the five Pandava brothers and is renowned for his striking beauty and expertise in swordsmanship and horse-keeping.

Born to Madri, Pandu’s second wife, and the Ashvini Kumaras, the divine twin physicians, Nakula and his twin brother Sahadeva were known for their wisdom and skill. Nakula’s life was marked by various events, such as his marriage to Draupadi and Karenumati, his role in the conquests during Yudhishthira’s Rajasuya, and his participation in the Kurukshetra War.

After the war, he was appointed as the king of northern Madra. His story is a blend of valor, loyalty, and the complexities of fate, reflecting the rich tapestry of human experiences depicted in the Mahabharata.

Sahadeva

Sahadeva is a pivotal character in the Indian epic Mahabharata, known for his wisdom and expertise in astrology. He was the youngest of the five Pandava brothers, sons of Pandu and his two wives Kunti and Madri.

Sahadeva and his twin brother Nakula were born to Madri, who invoked the Ashvini Kumaras, the divine twin physicians, to beget them. Renowned for his swordsmanship, Sahadeva was also deeply knowledgeable about cattle and cow herding, a skill he used while living incognito during the Pandavas’ exile.

He played a significant role in the great war of Kurukshetra, particularly on the 18th day when he fulfilled his vow by slaying Shakuni, the mastermind behind the deceitful dice game that led to the Pandavas’ exile. Sahadeva’s life is a testament to his loyalty to his brothers and his adherence to dharma, despite the trials and tribulations he faced.

.

The 2013 television series “Mahabharat” presents a dramatized portrayal of the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. In the series, actor Sourabh Raaj Jain plays the pivotal role of Lord Krishna, who is depicted sharing profound wisdom at the beginning of the show. As a key figure in the epic, Krishna is intricately connected to both the Pandavas and the Kauravas but chooses to support the Pandavas due to moral considerations. In a significant turn of events, when given the choice between Krishna’s strategic counsel or his powerful army, the Kauravas opt for the latter, erroneously believing it would secure their victory in the impending war.

The Kauravas

The Kauravas are a central part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, known as the 100 sons of Dhritarashtra, the King of Hastinapur, and his wife Gandhari. Their story is deeply intertwined with the narrative of the Mahabharata, reflecting themes of conflict and morality.

The name ‘Kaurava’ derives from their ancestor King Kuru, and they are depicted as the antagonists against their cousins, the Pandavas, in the Kurukshetra War. This war and the actions leading up to it form a crucial part of the epic, illustrating the complex dynamics of kinship, honor, and destiny in ancient Indian literature.

Duryodhana

Duryodhana, also known as Suyodhana, is a pivotal character in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. He was the eldest of the Kauravas, the hundred sons of King Dhritarashtra and Queen Gandhari. As the story unfolds, Duryodhana’s deep-seated animosity towards his cousins, the Pandavas, becomes the central theme leading to the epic’s climactic battle, the Kurukshetra War.

Despite being a skilled warrior, particularly with the mace, Duryodhana’s character is often depicted as being driven by greed and arrogance, traits that ultimately lead to his downfall.

His complex relationship with his family, his role as the crown prince of Hastinapura, and his eventual death at the hands of Bhima, one of the Pandavas, make him a fascinating study of the interplay between destiny and free will, as well as the consequences of one’s actions in the grand narrative of the Mahabharata.

Dushasana

Dushasana is a significant figure in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, known for his antagonistic role. He was the second eldest of the Kaurava brothers, the sons of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari.

His actions, particularly during the infamous dice game, where he attempted to disrobe Draupadi, have marked him as a villain in the narrative. This event led to Draupadi’s vow of vengeance and Bhima’s oath to kill Dushasana, which he fulfilled during the great battle of Kurukshetra.

Dushasana’s character is often interpreted as a symbol of blind loyalty and aggression, which ultimately led to his downfall.

Vikarna

Vikarna is a significant yet often overlooked character from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. He was the third son of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, making him a Kaurava and a brother to Duryodhana, the crown prince. Notably, Vikarna is recognized for his moral compass and is considered the third-most reputable of the Kauravas.

During the infamous game of dice, where Draupadi was humiliated, Vikarna stood out as the only Kaurava who questioned the proceedings and advocated for Draupadi’s dignity. Despite his objections being dismissed, his actions during this event highlight his integrity and courage. Vikarna’s prowess in archery was also notable, having been a student of Drona.

However, his loyalty to his family led him to fight for the Kauravas during the Kurukshetra War, where he had several notable encounters but ultimately met his end. Vikarna’s character is complex, embodying both the loyalty to his family and the courage to stand up for what is right, making him a unique figure in the Mahabharata narrative.

Chitrasena

Chitrasena, in the epic Mahabharata, is a multifaceted character with different identities. Primarily, he is known as the King of the Gandharvas, celestial beings with a passion for music and dance. He is most famous for teaching these arts to the Pandava prince Arjuna during his stay in heaven.

This encounter highlights the cultural and artistic dimensions of the epic. Chitrasena also played a role in the earthly conflicts of the Mahabharata; he captured Duryodhana, the Kaurava prince, only to have him released by Arjuna and Bhima.

Interestingly, the name Chitrasena is also associated with a king of Trigarta who fought on the side of the Kauravas, and with one of Karna’s sons, showcasing the complexity and layers within the epic’s narrative.

.

The 1964 Tamil film “Karnan” is renowned for its portrayal of the tragic hero Karna from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. In the climactic scene, the audience witnesses the heart-wrenching moment when Arjun, under Krishna’s guidance, fatally wounds Karna’s son, Vrishasena, with a devastating arrow. This sets the stage for Karna’s own downfall, which is precipitated by a series of curses and deceptions that culminate in his death during the great battle of Kurukshetra. The film, led by the iconic Sivaji Ganesan, captures the intense emotions and moral dilemmas faced by these characters in a war that pits kith and kin against each other.

Other Characters

Krishna

Krishna is a pivotal figure in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, renowned as a deity, a divine statesman, and a friend to the Pandavas. He is the son of Vasudeva and Devaki, born in the Yadava clan.

Krishna played a crucial role in the political landscape of the era, notably in the overthrow of the tyrant Kamsa and the establishment of the kingdom of Dvaraka. His philosophical teachings, encapsulated in the Bhagavad Gita during the Kurukshetra War, where he served as Arjuna’s charioteer, form the essence of his guidance to humanity on duty, righteousness, and devotion.

Krishna’s life and deeds have had a profound impact on Indian culture, inspiring a rich tradition of devotion, art, and literature.

Draupadi

Draupadi is a pivotal character in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. She is known by several names, including Krishnā, Yajnaseni, and Panchali. Born from a fire sacrifice conducted by her father, King Drupada of Panchala, she emerged as a beautiful and formidable woman destined to marry the five Pandava brothers.

Her polyandrous marriage is a significant aspect of the narrative, symbolizing both her strength and the complexities of fate. Draupadi’s life is marked by profound trials, from the infamous dice game where she was humiliated and nearly disrobed by the Kauravas, to the arduous years of exile with her husbands.

Yet, her unwavering spirit and close relationship with Lord Krishna, who considered her his beloved friend and protected her during her trials, highlight her resilience and moral fortitude. Draupadi’s story continues to inspire various forms of art and literature, reflecting her status as a revered figure in Hinduism, celebrated for her virtues and considered a symbol of female empowerment.

Bhishma

Bhishma, a central figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata, is known for his unwavering commitment to truth and duty. Born as Devavrata, Bhishma was the son of King Shantanu and the river goddess Ganga. He earned his name, meaning ‘terrible’ or ‘fierce’, due to his solemn vow of lifelong celibacy and renunciation of his right to the throne, to ensure his father’s happiness and the stability of the kingdom.

This act of self-denial elevated him to a position of great respect, earning him the epithet ‘Bhishma Pitamaha’, or ‘grandfather Bhishma’. As the grand uncle of both the Pandavas and the Kauravas, he played a pivotal role in the Kurukshetra War, leading the Kaurava army. His martial prowess was unmatched, and he was granted the boon to choose the time of his death.

Bhishma’s wisdom and moral clarity were profound, and before his death on a bed of arrows, he imparted significant teachings to the Pandavas, which are considered an important part of Hindu philosophy. Bhishma’s life and teachings continue to be celebrated and studied, reflecting the complex interplay of dharma (duty), karma (action), and sacrifice in human life.

Karna

Karna is a central character in the epic Mahabharata, known for his formidable skills as a warrior and his unwavering loyalty to his friend Duryodhana. Born to Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, and the sun god Surya, Karna was abandoned by his birth mother and raised by a charioteer’s family.

Despite his royal lineage, he faced discrimination due to his perceived lower status. Karna’s life is marked by his generous nature and his adherence to the warrior code, but also by tragedy and moral dilemmas.

His story raises profound questions about fate, duty, and the complex nature of human relationships. Karna’s legacy as a tragic hero endures, inspiring various interpretations and adaptations in literature and art.

Sakuni

Shakuni is a pivotal character in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, known for his complex role as an antagonist. He was the prince of Gandhara and later became its king. Shakuni is most recognized as the cunning maternal uncle to the Kauravas, especially Duryodhana, whom he influenced greatly.

His actions, particularly during the infamous game of dice against Yudhishthira, led to the Pandavas’ exile and were instrumental in escalating the conflict that culminated in the Kurukshetra War.

Shakuni’s character is often associated with themes of manipulation and strategic planning, embodying the darker aspects of human nature in the narrative of the Mahabharata.

These characters, with their intricate relationships and profound individual journeys, collectively weave the complex and enduring tapestry of the Mahabharata, making it a timeless epic that continues to resonate through the ages.

To be continued in Part 3