Devta and Kshatriya

Brahman is realized by Jnana Yogis. It is Nirgun means devoid of material qualities as well as Sagun means with transcendental spiritual qualities.
Bhagwan--Manifest qualities of Brahman. Realized by Bhakt Yogis.
Parmatma-- Realized by Ashtang Yogis.

Shiva, Krishna, Durga, Kali, Surya, Arun, Laxmi, Saraswati, Chandra, Shani Dev, Vishnu, Agni, Karn, Abhimanyu, Arjun, Sakuni, Gandiva, Gandhari, Pandu, Chitrangada

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An Introduction to Lord Shiva
The Destroyer

Known by many names:

  • Mahadeva,
  • Mahayogi,
  • Pashupati,
  • Nataraja,
  • Bhairava,
  • Vishwanath,
  • Bhava,
  • Bhole Nath

Lord Shiva is perhaps the most complex of Hindu deities, and one of the most powerful. Shiva is 'shakti' or power;

Shiva is the destroyer—the most powerful god of the Hindu pantheon and one of the godheads in the Hindu Trinity, along with Brahma and Vishnu. As recognition of this fact, Hindus isolate his shrine separate from those of other deities in the temple.

Shiva as Phallic Symbol:
In temples, Shiva is usually is depicted as a phallic symbol, the 'linga,' which represents the energies necessary for life on both the microcosmic and the macrocosmic levels—both the world in which we live and the world which constitutes the whole of the universe. In a Shaivite temple, the 'linga' is placed in the center underneath the spire, where it symbolizes the navel of the earth.

The popular belief is that the Shiva Linga or Lingam represents the phallus, the generative power in nature. But according to Swami Sivananda, this is not only a serious mistake but also a grave blunder.

A Unique Deity:
The actual image of Shiva is also uniquely different from other deities: his hair is piled high on the top of his head, with a crescent tucked into it and the river Ganges tumbling from his hair. Around his neck is a coiled serpent representing Kundalini, the spiritual energy within life. He holds a trident in his left hand, in which is bound the 'damroo' (small leather drum). He sits on a tiger skin and on his right is a water pot. He wears the 'Rudraksha' beads, and his whole body is smeared with ash. Shiva is also often portrayed as the supreme ascetic with a passive and composed disposition. Sometimes he is depicted riding a bull called Nandi, decked in garlands. A very complicated deity, Shiva is one of the most fascinating of Hindu gods.

The Destructive Force:
Shiva is believed to be at the core of the centrifugal force of the universe, due to his responsibility for death and destruction. Unlike the godhead Brahma the Creator, or Vishnu the Preserver, Shiva is the dissolving force in life. But Shiva dissolves to create since death is necessary for rebirth into a new life. So the opposites of life and death, creation and destruction, both reside in his character.

The God Who's Always High:
Since Shiva is regarded as a mighty destructive power, to numb his negative potentials, he is fed with opium and is also termed as 'Bhole Shankar'— one who is oblivious of the world. Therefore, on Maha Shivratri, the night of Shiva worship, devotees, especially the men, prepare an intoxicating drink called 'Thandai' (made from cannabis, almonds, and milk), sing songs in praise of the Lord and dance to the rhythm of the drums.

According to Hindu mythology, during the Puranic Age, Gods and Goddesses were glorified as supreme beings in various eulogizing texts full of amazing stories - in the Puranas.

The Shiva Purana
In the Shiva Purana, Lord Shiva is celebrated in the five elements of Nature governed by him :

    • Earth,
  • -Water,
  • -Fire,
  • -Air,
  • -Space,

Each of these elements is symbolized and worshiped in the form of a Linga, the formless form of Shiva.

The Shiva Purana also mentions 64 manifestations of Lord Shiva. Prof. K. Venkatachari, a noted artist, in his book Manifestations of Lord Shiva, brings to life a dozen such manifestations through beautiful illustrations.

Here we bring to you some of the most fascinating forms of Shiva - the God of Destruction.
Lord Shiva is the Destroyer in the Holy Trinity, the others being Brahma the Creator and Vishnu the Preserver.

The Complete List of 19 Avatars of Lord Shiva:

To sustain law and balance of nature Lord Shiva took many avatars in various yugas. In Shiva Purana, the following 19 Avatars of Shiva are mentioned.

Adi Shankaracharya said, “Forgive me Oh, Shiva! My three great sins! I came on a pilgrimage to Kashi forgetting that, you are omnipresent. In thinking about you, I forgot that You are beyond thought. In praying to you, I forgot that You are beyond words.”

  1. Piplaad Avatar

Lord Shiva took birth in the house of Rishi Dadhichi as Piplaad. But the sage is said to have left the house due to the positioning of the Shani. So, Piplaad cursed Shani and caused the planet to fall from its celestial abode. Later, he forgave Shani on a condition that the planet would never trouble anyone before 16 years of age. Hence, worshipping the Piplaad form of Lord Shiva helps to get rid of Shani dosha.

  1. Nandi Avatar

Lord Shiva is seen as the protector of the herds. He is depicted as bull faced with four hands. The two hands are seen holding an axe and an antelope

  1. Veerabhadra Avatar

Veerabhadra came to be after Goddess Sati immolated herself at the Daksha yagna. Lord Shiva became extremely furious. Lord Shiva plucked a hair strand from his head and threw it on the ground. It was from the hair strand that Veerbhadra and Rudrakali were born. This fierce avatar is said to have broken the sacrificial vessels, polluted the offerings, insulted the priests and finally cut off Daksha’s head, trampled on Indra, broke the staff of Yama, scattered the gods on every side; then he returned to Kailash.

  1. Sharabha Avatar

Shiva Purana narrates that god Shiva assumed the Avatar of Sharabha (part bird part lion) to tame Narasimha – the fierce man-lion avatar of Vishnu. This form is popularly known as Sarabeshwara (Lord Sarabha) or Sharabeshwaramurti.

  1. Ashwatthama

Ashwatthama is said to be the “The Vish Purush” sprung out of Shiva after he took Halahal during Samundra Manthan. He was granted a blessing that he would be able to kill oppressive kshatriyas. He will be born as Bhardwaja’s grandson and be raised as Brahman but attracted to Kshatriyahood. This Vish purush was born as Ashwatthama to Drona and Kripi.

  1. Bhairava Avatar

Bhairava avatar was created when Lord Brahma lied about his quest for superiority, Shiva took the form of Bhairava and cut off Lord Brahma’s fifth head. Severing a Brahma’s head made Lord Shiva guilty of the crime of killing a Brahmin (Brahma hatya) and hence Shiva had to carry the skull of Brahma for twelve years and roam as a Bhikshatana. In this form, Shiva is said to guard all the Shakti Peethas.

  1. Durvasa Avatar

Lord Shiva had taken the avatar of Durvasa on the earth to maintain the discipline of the universe. Durvasa was a great sage known for his short temper.

  1. Grihapati Avatar

Lord Shiva was born to a great devotee of Lord Shiva, Shuchismati was his devoted wife who yearned to birth a child, like Shiva. The child was well versed in all the Vedas yet was informed had to die young due to planetary positions. His journey to Kashi was dampened by Indra but Lord Shiva came to his defense and Lord Shiva blessed Grihapati by saying “even Kaalvajra would not be able to kill you.” Grihapati became very pleased. The Shivalinga which he worshipped, later on, became famous as ‘Agnishwar linga’. Lord Shiva made Grihapati the lord of all the directions.

  1. Lord Hanuman

Lord Shiva was so infatuated by the appearance of Lord Vishnu in his form of Mohini during Samudra Manthan that his semen was released on the ground. This semen was established by the Saptarishis in the womb of Anjani, with the permission of Lord Shiva himself. In this way was born the mighty Hanuman.

  1. Vrishabha Avatar

During Samundra Manthan Vishnu tricked all the asuras by creating an illusion of enchanting beauties. When the asuras saw them, they forcibly carried these enchanting beauties to their abode – Patal Lok. After that, they again returned to take control of the Nectar which had been taken by the gods. While Vishnu went to annihilate them in Patal loka he himself got caught up in the Maya and fathered many immoral sons there who created a ruckus for the Gods. It was then Lord Shiva took the form of an ox or Vrishabha and killed all the cruel sons of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu came to fight the ox but after recognizing that it was Lord Shiva’s incarnation, he left the fight and returned to his abode.

  1. Yatinath Avatar

Yatinath Avatar – There was once a tribal man named Aahuk. He and his wife were ardent devotees of Lord Shiva. One day Lord Shiva visited them in the form of Yatinath. Their small hut couldn’t accommodate lord Shiva guised as a guest, so Aahuk decided to sleep outside. Unfortunately, he was killed by a wild animal outside. This wife decided to take her own life but was blessed by Lord shiva that they would be born as Nala and Damyanti in the next life and Shiva would unite them.

  1. Krishna Darshan avatar

Lord Shiva took the incarnation of Krishna Darshan avatar to highlight the importance of yagna and rituals in a person’s life. A prince, Nabhag who was kept from his share of the kingdom by his brothers had been asked by his father to educate a sage to get rid of all his attachments to successfully conduct a yajna. When the task is completed the Sage, Angiras pleased hands him all the wealth which is stopped by Krishan Darshan Avataar of Shiva. He showed Nabhag the significance of higher spiritual attainment and salvation and hence gave blessings.

  1. Bhikshuvarya Avatar

This incarnation of Lord Shiva protects human beings from all kinds of dangers.

  1. Sureshwar Avatar

Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati appeared in front of the son of sage Vyaghrapaad, Upamanyu disguised as Indra and Indrani respectively. To test his devotion, both of them told Upamanyu to stop doing penance and stop worshiping Shiva. Upamanyu was enraged and refused even after being cursed by them. Shiva and Parvati were satisfied by his total dedication and devotion Shiva promised Upamanyu that he would be present in the vicinity of his hermitage along with Parvati forever. Lord Shiva got the name ‘Sureshwar’ because he appeared in the guise of Indra.

  1. Kirateshwar Avatar

Lord Shiva descended in the form of a hunter or Kirat while Arjuna was meditating to kill an Asura named Mooka, disguised as boar. Arjun’s meditation got disturbed by the sound and upon seeing the boar, Arjun and the Kirat struck the boar at the same time with arrows. A fight broke between the Keerat and Arjuna as to who struck the boar first. Arjuna challenged Lord Shiva in the form of Keerat for a duel. Lord Shiva was pleased by Arjuna’s valour and gifted him his Pashupata Astra.

  1. Suntantarka Avatar

Lord Shiva took this incarnation to ask the hand of Parvati in marriage from her father Himalaya.

  1. Brahmachari Avatar

It was in Brahmachari Avatar, that Lord Shiva had tested Pārbati’s determination to marry him.

  1. Yaksheshwar Avatar

When the deities after defeating the Asuras during Samudra Manthan, had become arrogant, Lord Shiva disliked it as pride was not a quality for gods to possess. Lord Shiva then presented some grass before them and asked them to cut it. It was Lord Shiva’s attempt to destroy their false pride through this divine grass. Hence, nobody could cut the grass and the pride vanished. This form of Lord Shiva then came to be known as Yaksheshwar.

  1. Avadhut Avatar

Avadhut Avatar was an incarnation was taken by Lord Shiva to crush the arrogance of Lord Indra.

Here are the 108 names of the Hindu God Shiva gleaned from the Sri Shiva Ashtotattrashata Namavali mantra. It is believed that devotees, who read, memorize or chant these 108 auspicious names of Shiva with single-minded focus, will receive the blessing of the Lord and be shorn of all sins.

108 Names of Lord Shiva

Ahirbhudhanya: The one who possess the Kundalini

Aja: The one who is boundless

Ambikanatha: Consort of Ambika, the Mother Goddess

Anagha: He who is pure

Ananta: The one who is unending

Andhakasura Sudana: The Lord who killed the demon Andhaka

Anekatma: The God who has many forms

Anishvara: The one who does not have any Lord

Apavargaprada: Lord who gives and takes all things

Ashtamurti: Lord who has eight forms

Avayaya: The one who never subject to change

Avayayat: The one who is unseen

Avyagra: Lord who is steady and unwavering

Bhagnetrabhid: The Lord who damaged Bhaga's eye

Bhagwan: The Lord of prosperity

Bhaktavatsala: The Lord who is always on the side his devotees

Bharga: Lord who ends all sins

Bhasmodhulitavigrah: The one who applies ashes all over the body

Bhava: The God who is existence itself

Bheema: The one who has a fearful form

Bhootapati: Lord of the Panchabhoota and evil spirits

Bujangabhushana: Lord adorned with the golden snake

Charuvikrama: The guardian of wandering pilgrims

Dakshadhwarahara: Destroyer of Daksha's conceited sacrifice or yajna

Deva: Lord of the devas or demigods

Digambara: Shiva whose robes is the cosmos

Durdharsha: The One who is unconquerable

Gananatha: God of the ganas

Gangadhar: The God who holds the Ganges river in his hair

Giridhanva: God whose weapon is a mountain

Giripriya: Lord who is fond of the mountains

Giriraj: King of the mountains

Girisha: The God who sleeps on Kailash mountain

Hara: The Lord who dissolves all bondage and sins

Hari: Same as Lord Vishnu

Havi: He who is wealthy in the form of ahuti

Hiranyareta: The one who emanates golden souls

Jagadguru: Guru of the universe

Jagadvyapi: God who permeates the entire world

Jattadhar: The God with matted locks or jata

Kailashavasi: Native of Kailash

Kalakal: One who is the death of deaths

Kamari: Enemy of Kamadeva

Kapali: One who wears a necklace of skulls

Kapardi: The Lord with thickly matted hair

Kathor: The God who has a strong body

Kawachi: The God who is armored

Khandaparshu: Lord with the broken axe

Khatvangi: The God who carries a knurled club or khatvanga

Kripanidhi: The God who is the treasure of compassion

Krittivas: God who wears clothes of elephant skin

Lalataksha: One who has an eye in the forehead

Mahadeva: Greatest of the Gods

Mahasenajanaka: Father of Kartikeya

Maheshwara: Lord of Gods

Mrida: The Lord who shows mercy

Mrigpani: Shiva with deer in hands

Mrityunjay: Lord who conquers death

Nilalohit: The one with red and blue colors

Panchavaktra: God of the five activities

Paramatma: Everyone's own soul

Parameshwar: The Great God

Parshuhasta: The God who holds axe in hands

Pashupati: Lord of animals

Pashvimochana: Lord who releases all fetters

Pinakin: One who has a bow in his hand

Prajapati: The creator of dynasty

Pramathadhipa: God who is served by goblins

Purarati: Destroyer of the enemy

Pushadantabhit: One who punished Pushan

Rudra: The one who gets sad by the pain of devotees

Sadashiva: The one who is eternally auspicious

Sahasrapada: The Lord who is standing and walking everywhere

Sahsraksha: One who has limitless forms

Samapriya: The one who loves with equality

Sarvagya: The one who knows everything

Satvik: Lord of boundless energy

Shambhu: One who bestows prosperity

Shankar: One who gives happiness and prosperity

Sharva: Remover of all troubles

Shashi Shekhar: The God who wears the crescent moon in his hair

Shashvat: Lord who is eternal and endless

Shipivishta: The Lord whose form emits great rays of light

Shitikantha: The Lord who has a white neck

Shiva: The Lord who is always pure

Shivapriya: Beloved of Parvati, the Mother Goddess

Shrikantha: The one of glorious neck

Shuddhavigraha: Lord of pure soul

Shulapani: The one who carries a trident

Som: The one who includes the form of Uma or Goddess Durga

Somasuryaagnilochana: The one who has eyes in the form of the sun, the moon, and fire

Sthanu: The firm and immovable deity

Sukshamatanu: God who has a subtle body

Swaramayi: The God who lives in all seven notes of music

Tarak: The Lord who is great liberator of mankind

Trayimurti: Shiva who possesses the Veda form

Trilokesha: The Lord of all the three worlds

Tripurantak: The God who killed the demon Tripurasura

Ugra: The One who has extremely fierce nature

Vamadeva: The God who is pleasing and auspicious in every way

Veerabhadra: Who is violent , yet peaceful

Virupaksha: The Shiva with oblique eyes

Vishnuvallabha: The one who is dear to Lord Vishnu

Vishveshwara: Lord of the universe

Vrishanka: The God who has a flag with a symbol of bull

Vrishbharudh: The one who rides bull

Vyomakesh: Whose hair spreads in the sky

Yagyamaya: The architect of all sacrificial rites

The Real Meaning of the Shiva's Linga Symbol
The Often Misunderstood Icon

The Shiva Linga or Lingam is a symbol that represents Lord Shiva in Hinduism. As the most powerful of deities, temples are built in his honor that includes a Shiva Linga, representing all the energies of the world and beyond.

The popular belief is that the Shiva Linga represents the phallus, the emblem of the generative power in nature. According to followers of Hinduism, their teachers have taught that this is not only a mistake, but also a grave blunder. Such a stance, for example, can be found in the teachings of Swami Sivananda,

In addition to the Hindu tradition, the Shiva Linga has been adopted by a number of metaphysical disciplines. In this case, it refers to a particular stone from an Indian river that is believed to have healing powers for the mind, body, and soul.

To understand these dual uses for the words Shiva Linga, let's approach them one at a time and begin with the origin. They are completely different but connected in their underlying meaning and connection to Lord Shiva.

Shiva Linga: The Symbol of Shiva

In Sanskrit, Linga means a "mark" or a symbol, which points to an inference. Thus the Shiva Linga is a symbol of Lord Shiva: a mark that reminds of the Omnipotent Lord, which is formless.

Shiva Linga speaks to the Hindu devotee in the unmistakable language of silence. It is only the outward symbol of the formless being, Lord Shiva, who is the undying soul seated in the chambers of your heart. He is your in-dweller, your innermost self or Atman, and he is also identical with the supreme Brahman.

The Linga as a Symbol of Creation

The ancient Hindu scripture "Linga Purana" says that the foremost Linga is devoid of smell, color, taste, etc., and is spoken of as Prakriti, or Nature itself. In the post-Vedic period, the Linga became symbolical of the generative power of Lord Shiva.

The Linga is like an egg and represents the Brahmanda (the cosmic egg). Linga signifies that the creation is affected by the union of Prakriti and Purusha, the male and the female powers of Nature. It also signifies Satya, Jnana, and Ananta—Truth, Knowledge, and Infinity. A Shiva Linga consists of three parts. The lowest of these is called the Brahma-Pitha; the middle one, the Vishnu-Pitha; the uppermost one, the Shiva-Pitha. These are associated with the Hindu pantheon of gods: Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Preserver), and Shiva (the Destroyer).

The typically circular base or peetham (Brahma-Pitha) holds an elongated bowl-like structure (Vishnu-Pitha) reminiscent of a flat teapot with a spout that has had the top cut off. Within the bowl rests a tall cylinder with a rounded head (Shiva-Pitha). It is in this portion of the Shiva Linga that many people see a phallus.

The Shiva Linga is most often carved from stone. In Shiva Temples, they can be quite large, towering over devotees, though Lingum can also be small, close to knee-height. Many are adorned with traditional symbols or elaborate carvings, though some are somewhat industrial looking or relatively plain and simple.

The Holiest Shiva Lingas of India Of all the Shiva Lingas in India, a few stand out as holding the most importance. The temple of Lord Mahalinga at Tiruvidaimarudur, known also as Madhyarjuna, is regarded as the great Shiva temple of South India.

There are 12 Jyotir-lingas and five Pancha-bhuta Lingas in India.

Jyotir-lingas: Found in -

  • Kedarnath,
  • Kashi Vishwanath,
  • Somnath,
  • Baijnath,
  • Rameswar,
  • Ghrusneswar,
  • Bhimshankar,
  • Mahakal,
  • Mallikarjun,
  • Amaleshwar,
  • Nageshwar,
  • Tryambakeshwar

Pancha-bhuta Lingas: Found in -

  • Kalahastishwar,
  • Jambukeshwar,
  • Arunachaleshwar,
  • Ekambareshwar of Kanjivaram,
  • Nataraja of Chidambaram

The Quartz Shiva Linga:

The Sphatika-linga is made of quartz. It is prescribed for the deepest kind of worship of Lord Shiva. It has no color of its own but takes on the color of the substance which it comes in contact with. It represents the Nirguna Brahman, the attribute-less Supreme Self or the formless Shiva.

What the Linga Means to Hindu Devotees

There is a mysterious or indescribable power (or Shakti) in the Linga. It is believed to induce concentration of the mind and help focus one's attention. That is why the ancient sages and seers of India prescribed Linga to be installed in the temples of Lord Shiva.

For a sincere devotee, the Linga is not merely a block of stone, it is all-radiant. It talks to him, raises him above body-consciousness, and helps him communicate with the Lord. Lord Rama worshiped the Shiva Linga at Rameshwaram. Ravana, the learned scholar, worshiped the golden Linga for its mystical powers.

The Shiva Lingam of Metaphysical Disciplines

Taking from these Hindu beliefs, the Shiva Lingam referenced by metaphysical disciplines refer to a specific stone. It is used as a healing stone, particularly for sexual fertility and potency as well as overall well-being, power, and energy.

Practitioners in healing crystals and rocks believe the Shiva Lingam to be among the most powerful. It is said to bring balance and harmony to those who carry it and have great healing energy for all seven chakras.

Its Physical Shape

Physically, the Shiva Linga in this context is quite different from that of Hindu tradition. It is an egg-shaped stone of brown shades that is gathered from the Narmada River in the sacred Mardhata mountains. Polished to a high sheen, locals sell these stones to spiritual seekers all over the world. They can vary in size from one-half an inch in length to several feet. The markings are said to represent those found on the Lord Shiva's forehead.

Those who use the Shiva Lingam see in it a symbol of fertility: the phallus representing the male and the egg the female. Together, they represent the fundamental creation of life and of Nature itself as well as a fundamental spiritual balance.

The Lingam stones are used in meditation, carried with the person throughout the day, or used in healing ceremonies and rituals.

The Most Popular Stories of Shiva, the Destroyer

Lord Shiva is one of three principle Hindu deities, along with Brahma and Vishnu. Especially in Shavais—one of the four main branches of Hinduism, Shiva is regarded as the Supreme Being responsible for creation, destruction, and everything in between. For other Hindu sects, Shiva's reputation is as the Destroyer of Evil, existing on equal footing with Brahma and Vishnu. It is no surprise, then, that legends and mythological tales surround Lord Shiva abound. Here are a few of the most popular ones:

The Creation of the Ganges River

A legend from the Ramayana speaks of King Bhagirath, who once meditated before Lord Brahma for a thousand years for the salvation of the souls of his ancestors. Pleased with his devotion, Brahma granted him a wish; the king then requested that the Lord send the river goddess Ganges down to earth from heaven so that she could flow over his ancestors' ashes and wash their curse away and allow them to go to heaven.

Brahma granted his wish but requested that the king first pray to Shiva, for Shiva alone could support the weight of Ganga's descent. Accordingly, King Bhagrirath prayed to Shiva, who agreed that Ganga could descend while entwined in the locks of his hair. In one variation of the story, an angry Ganga tried to drown Shiva during the descent, but the Lord powerfully held her motionless until she relented. After meandering down through Shiva's thick matted locks, the holy river Ganges appeared on earth.

For modern Hindus,
-this legend is re-enacted by a ceremonial ritual known as bathing the Shiva Lingam.

The Tiger and the Leaves:

Once a hunter who was chasing a deer wandered into a dense forest found himself on the banks of river Kolidum, where he heard the growl of a tiger. To protect himself from the beast, he climbed up a tree nearby. The tiger pitched itself on the ground below the tree, demonstrating no intention to leave. The hunter stayed up in the tree all night and to keep himself from falling asleep, he gently plucked one leaf after another from the tree and threw it down.

Under the tree was a Shiva Linga, and the tree blessedly turned out to be a bilva tree. Unknowingly, the man had pleased the deity by casting bilva leaves down upon the ground. At sunrise, the hunter looked down to find the tiger gone, and in its place stood Lord Shiva. The hunter prostrated himself before the Lord and attained salvation from the cycle of birth and death.

To this day, bilva leaves are used by modern believers in ritual devotions to Shiva. The leaves are thought to cool the deity's fierce temperament and to resolve even the worst karmic debt.

Shiva as a Phallus:

According to another legend, Brahma and Vishnu, the two other deities of the holy Trinity, once had an argument over who was more supreme. Brahma, being the Creator, declared himself to be more revered, while Vishnu, the Preserver, pronounced that it was he commanded more respect.

Just then a colossal lingam (Sanskrit for phallus) in the form of an infinite pillar of light, known as a Jyotirlinga, appeared blanketed in flames before them. Both Brahma and Vishnu were awestruck by its rapidly increasing size, and, forgetting their quarrel, they decided to determine its dimensions. Vishnu assumed the form of a boar and went to the netherworld, while Brahma became a swan and flew to the skies, but neither was able to fulfill their task. Suddenly Shiva appeared out of the lingam and stated that he was the progenitor of both Brahma and Vishnu, and that henceforth he should be worshiped in his phallic form, the lingam, and not in his anthropomorphic form.

This tale is used to explain why Shiva is often represented iconically in the form of a Shiva Linga carving in Hindu devotions.

Nataraja or Nataraj, the dancing form of Lord Shiva, is a symbolic synthesis of the most important aspects of Hinduism, and the summary of the central tenets of this Vedic religion. The term 'Nataraj' means 'King of Dancers' (Sanskrit nata = dance; raja = king). In the words of Ananda K. Coomaraswamy, Nataraj is the "clearest image of the activity of God which any art or religion can boast of…A more fluid and energetic representation of a moving figure than the dancing figure of Shiva can scarcely be found anywhere," (The Dance of Shiva)

The Origin of the Nataraj Form

An extraordinary iconographic representation of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India, it was developed in southern India by 9th and 10th-century artists during the Chola period (880-1279 CE) in a series of beautiful bronze sculptures. By the 12th century AD, it achieved canonical stature and soon the Chola Nataraja became the supreme statement of Hindu art.

The Vital Form and Symbolism

In a marvelously unified and dynamic composition expressing the rhythm and harmony of life, Nataraj is shown with four hands represent the cardinal directions. He is dancing, with his left foot elegantly raised and the right foot on a prostrate figure—'Apasmara Purusha', the personification of illusion and ignorance over whom Shiva triumphs. The upper left-hand holds a flame, the lower left-hand points down to the dwarf, who is shown holding a cobra. The upper right-hand holds an hourglass drum or 'dumroo' that stands for the male-female vital principle, the lower shows the gesture of assertion: "Be without fear."

Snakes that stand for egotism, are seen uncoiling from his arms, legs, and hair, which is braided and bejeweled. His matted locks are whirling as he dances within an arch of flames representing the endless cycle of birth and death. On his head is a skull, which symbolizes his conquest over death. Goddess Ganga, the epitome of the holy river Ganges, also sits on his hairdo. His third eye is symbolic of his omniscience, insight, and enlightenment. The whole idol rests on a lotus pedestal, the symbol of the creative forces of the universe.

The Significance of Shiva's Dance

This cosmic dance of Shiva is called 'Anandatandava,' meaning the Dance of Bliss, and symbolizes the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction, as well as the daily rhythm of birth and death. The dance is a pictorial allegory of the five principle manifestations of eternal energy—creation, destruction, preservation, salvation, and illusion. According to Coomaraswamy, the dance of Shiva also represents his five activities: 'Shrishti' (creation, evolution); 'Sthiti' (preservation, support); 'Samhara' (destruction, evolution); 'Tirobhava' (illusion); and 'Anugraha' (release, emancipation, grace).

The overall temper of the image is paradoxical, uniting the inner tranquility, and outside activity of Shiva.

A Scientific Metaphor

Fritzof Capra in his article "The Dance of Shiva: The Hindu View of Matter in the Light of Modern Physics," and later in The Tao of Physics beautifully relates Nataraj's dance with modern physics. He says that "every subatomic particle not only performs an energy dance but also is an energy dance; a pulsating process of creation and destruction…without end…For the modern physicists, then Shiva's dance is the dance of subatomic matter. As in Hindu mythology, it is a continual dance of creation and destruction involving the whole cosmos; the basis of all existence and of all natural phenomena."

The Nataraj Statue at CERN, Geneva

In 2004, a 2m statue of the dancing Shiva was unveiled at CERN, the European Center for Research in Particle Physics in Geneva. A special plaque next to the Shiva statue explains the significance of the metaphor of Shiva's cosmic dance with quotations from Capra: "Hundreds of years ago, Indian artists created visual images of dancing Shivas in a beautiful series of bronzes. In our time, physicists have used the most advanced technology to portray the patterns of the cosmic dance. The metaphor of the cosmic dance thus unifies ancient mythology, religious art, and modern physics."

To sum up, here's an excerpt from a beautiful poem by Ruth Peel:

  • The source of all movement,
  • Shiva's dance,
  • Gives rhythm to the universe.
  • He dances in evil places,
  • In sacred,
  • He creates and preserves,
  • Destroys and releases.

We are part of this dance
This eternal rhythm,
And woe to us if, blinded
By illusions,
We detach ourselves
From the dancing cosmos,
This universal harmony…"

SRi KRISHNA

1) Krishna was born 5252 years ago
2) Date of Birth : 18 th July,3228 B.C
3) Month : Shravan
4) Day : Ashtami
5) Nakshatra : Rohini
6) Day : Wednesday
7) Time : 00:00 A.M.
8) Shri Krishna lived 125 years, 08 months & 07 days.
9) Date of Death : 18th February 3102BC.
10) When Krishna was 89 years old ; the mega war (Kurukshetra) war took place.
11) He died 36 years after the Kurukshetra war.
12) Kurukshetra War was started on Mrigashira Shukla Ekadashi,BC 3139. i.e "8th December 3139BC" and ended on "25th December, 3139BC".
12) There was a Solar eclipse between "3p.m to 5p.m on 21st December, 3139BC" ; cause of Jayadrath's death.
13) Bhishma died on 2nd February,(First Ekadasi of the Uttarayana), in 3138 B.C.
14) Krishna is worshipped as:
(a)Krishna Kanhaiyya : Mathura
(b) Jagannath:- In Odisha
(c) Vithoba:- In Maharashtra
(d) Srinath: In Rajasthan
(e) Dwarakadheesh: In Gujarat
(f) Ranchhod: In Gujarat
(g) Krishna : Udipi, Karnataka
15) Bilological Father: Vasudeva
16) Biological Mother: Devaki
17) Adopted Father:- Nanda
18) Adopted Mother: Yashoda
19 Elder Brother: Balaram
20) Sister: Subhadra
21) Birth Place: Mathura
22) Wives: Rukmini, Satyabhama, Jambavati, Kalindi, Mitravinda, Nagnajiti, Bhadra, Lakshmana
23) Krishna is reported to have Killed only 4 people in his life time.
(i) Chanoora ; the Wrestler
(ii) Kamsa ; his maternal uncle
(iii) & (iv) Shishupaala and Dantavakra ; his cousins.
24) Life was not fair to him at all. His mother was from Ugra clan, and Father from Yadava clan, inter-racial marriage.
25) He was born dark skinned. He was not named at all throughout his life. The whole village of Gokul started calling him the black one ; Kanha. He was ridiculed and teased for being black, short and adopted too. His childhood was wrought with life threatening situations.
26) 'Drought' and "threat of wild wolves" made them shift from 'Gokul' to 'Vrindavan' at the age 9.
27) He stayed in Vrindavan till 14~16 years. He killed his own uncle at the age of 14~16 years at Mathura.He then released his biological mother and father.
28) He never returned to Vrindavan ever again.
29) He had to migrate to Dwaraka from Mathura due to threat of a Sindhu King ; Kala Yaavana.
30) He defeated 'Jarasandha' with the help of 'Vainatheya' Tribes on Gomantaka hill (now Goa).
31) He rebuilt Dwaraka.
32) He then left to Sandipani's Ashram in Ujjain to start his schooling at age 16~18.
33) He had to fight the pirates from Afrika and rescue his teachers son ; Punardatta; who was kidnapped near Prabhasa ; a sea port in Gujarat.
34) After his education, he came to know about his cousins fate of Vanvas. He came to their rescue in ''Wax house'' and later his cousins got married to Draupadi. His role was immense in this saga.
35) Then, he helped his cousins establish Indraprastha and their Kingdom.

36) He saved Draupadi from embarrassment.

37) He stood by his cousins during their exile.
38) He stood by them and made them win the Kurushetra war.

39) He saw his cherished city, Dwaraka washed away.
40) He was killed by a hunter (Jara by name) in nearby forest.
41) He never did any miracles. His life was not a successful one. There was not a single moment when he was at peace throughout his life. At every turn, he had challenges and even more bigger challenges.
42) He faced everything and everyone with a sense of responsibility and yet remained unattached.

43) He is the only person, who knew the past and probably future ; yet he lived at that present moment always.

44) He and his life is truly an example for every human being.🌷🙏🏻

Karn

Karna

Karna was a really important in the Mahabharata. He was born as Kunti’s son, but was adopted by Adiratha and Radha. He was an incredible archer, equal to and maybe even better than Arjuna. He became friends with Duryodhana and ruled the kingdom of Anga. Karna died in the Kurukshetra war. Karna didn’t know that the Pandavas were his brothers till the end of is life.

Family

  • Father: Surya
  • Mother: Kunti
  • Foster Father: Adiratha
  • Foster Mother: Radha
  • Foster Brother: Shon
  • Brothers: Yudhistira, Bhima, Arjuna, Sahadeva, Nakula
  • Wives: Supriya, Vaishali
  • Sons: Vrishasena, Vrishaketu, Chitrasena, Satyasena, Sushena, Shatrunjaya, Dvipata, Banasena, Prasena

Birth

Kunti was the daughter of King Kuntibhoja of the Kunti kingdom. Once, Durvasa visited Kuntibhoja. Kunti took great care of him. Durvasa was impressed and granted Kunti the boon that she could have a child from any god she wished. Once, when she wasn’t married, Kunti decided to test her boon. She recited the mantra and invoked Surya. A child appeared in her lap. The child had golden earrings and golden armor on. Kunti was afraid of having a son before marrying so she put him in a basket. She put the basket in the river and left in grief.

Adoption

The baby boy was found floating in the river by King Dhritrashtra of Kuru kingdom’s chief charioteer, Adiratha. Adiratha was of the Sudra caste. He took the little boy to his home. Him and his wife, Radha, named him Karna. Karna grew up under Adiratha and Radha. He thought Radha and Adiratha were his parents. Soon, Radha and Adiratha had another son named Shon.

Education and Curses

Karna soon became interested in warfare, especially archery. He approached many gurus, but they all denied him. He then approached Dronacharya, an amazing guru. Karna requested Dronacharya to teach him. “I only teach the Pandava and Kaurava princes. What caste are you?” Dronacharya responded. When Karna responded that he was of the Sudra caste, Dronacharya immediately denied him and ordered Karna to leave at once. Karna was in grief. No guru accepted him because of his lowly caste. Karna decided to learn from Parshuram, Dronacharya’s own guru. But he knew Parshuram only taught Brahmins, so Karna tried to appear as a Brahmin, shaving his hair and wearing clothes like Brahmins. “I am a Brahmin named Karna. I would like to learn the art of warfare from you, O great guru,” Karna said when he went to Parshuram. “I don’t teach anymore. I have already given away most of my weapons. I have now resulted to meditation. Leave,” Parshuram responded. After continuous pleading from Karna, Parshuram said, “Fine. I will teach you. But you will have to pass three difficult tests to prove your valour.” Karna successfully passed all three off the tests. Parshuram hesitantly accepted Karna as his student. Parshuram trained Karna in warfare for many years. Karna became a master at archery, almost as good as Parshuram. Parushuram was impressed at Karna’s archery skills and gave him the Brahmastra, Brahmashira, and Brahmadanda.

Once, Parshuram was sleeping with his head on Karna’s lap. A scorpion came and bit Karna. In spite of the unbearable pain, Karna didn’t make a sound because he didn’t want to disturb Parshuram. Blood started oozing out and touched Parshuram’s ear. Parshuram instantly woke up. “What is this?” Parushuram questioned. “A scorpion bit me,” Karna replied. “And you didn’t make a sound?” Parshuram raised his voice. “I didn’t want to disturb you, guru,” Karna said politely. “What! You lied to me! You said you were a brahmin! A brahmin couldn’t possibly endure so much pain without screaming. You’re not a brahmin!” Parshuram yelled in anger. “I curse you that you will forget everything I taught you,” Parushuram cursed. Karna started begging at Parshuram’s feet. Upon Karna’s pleading, Parushuram modified his curse and made it so that Karna would only forget his knowledge when he most needed it. “I present to you Vijaya, my personal bow, and my Bhargavastra,” Parushuram said. Karna bowed down to Parshuram and left in grief. He returned to Hastinapura, where Adiratha and Radha lived. Once, while Karna was practicing archery, he accidentally shot a cow and killed it. The cow’s owner came to Karna in rage. “You have killed my cow. My cow is helpless and is dying right now. Just like that, you will become helpless and die by your chariot wheel getting stuck,” he roared, cursing Karna.

Meeting Duryodhana

The Pandava and Kaurava princes had just returned from Dronacharya’s hermitage. To display what he had taught them in warfare, Dronacharya arranged a friendly tournament. When the tournament began, Arjuna was defeating all the Kaurava princes. Karna arrived at the tournament, uninvited, and challenged Arjuna to a fight. Kripacharya refused that Karna fight Arjuna as only princes could fight princes. When Bhishma asked Karna his name and caste, Karna said Sudra. The spectators of the tournament started insulting Karna and calling him Sudputra. “Stop. Bhishma Pitama vanquished the king of Anga and conquered the Anga land. I now declare Karna the king of Anga. He is now royalty and is capable of dueling Arjuna,” Duryodhana declared. “Thank you, Prince Duryodhana. How can I repay you?” Karna asked in gratitude. “You can give me your friendship in return,” Duryodhana replied. “As you wish, friend,” Karna said. Karna took his bow and Arjuna took his. They started firing arrow after arrow on each other. Soon, both started using divyastras. Soon, dusk arrived and the duel was left incomplete.

Marriage

Karna got to know that there was a svayamvara for Draupadi, the princess of Panchala and Drupada’s daughter. He decided to go participate in the svayamvar and try to marry Draupadi. The person who strung a huge bow and used to that bow to shoot an arrow at a fish’s eye on the ceiling using the reflection of the fish in a bowl of water would get to marry Draupadi. Many kings tried, but failed. Karna easily accomplished the task. But Draupadi rejected him, saying she didn’t want to marry a sudputra. Karna was ashamed and left the place at once. Adiratha insisted that Karna marry Vrushali. Vrushali was Adiratha’s friend’s daughter and she was marriageable age. Karna married Vrushali and had seven sons: Vrishaketu, Chitrasena, Satyasena, Shatrunjaya, Dvipata, Banasena, and Prasena. Duryodhana was attending the svayamvara of Bhanumati, the princess of Kalinga, in hope of winning her in marriage. Karna and Shakuni went with him. When the svayamvar started, Bhanumati walked into the court with her friend Supriya. She was told about each participant’s name and lineage. When she walked away from Duryodhana, he was infuriated. He grabbed her and ran out of the palace with Karna and Shakuni. The three of them got on a chariot and Karna single-handedly defeated all the other royal suitors.

At Hastinapura, Duryodhana married Bhanumati. Upon Duryodhana’s insistence, Karna decided to marry Supriya, Bhanumati’s friend. Him and Supriya had two sons: Sushena and Vrishasena.

Fight with Jarasandha

Karna, with his wives and sons, then started to live in his kingdom Anga’s capital, Champapura. He built a huge royal palace. Karna also became part of the court of Hastinapura. He also became Krishna’s friend and realized Krishna was god. Karna had defeated many of Jarasandha’s allies while defending Duryodhana when he kidnapped Bhanumati. This was a shame for Jarasandha. He invited Karna to Maghada and challenged him to a duel. They fought for hours with various weapons. Finally, Jarasandha accepted defeat and Karna spared his life. Jarasandha was impressed with Karna’s skill and gifted him the city of Malini. Karna soon took an oath that if anybody approached him with a request while he was doing his daily sun worshiping, he would give it to them.

Gambling

Shakuni and Duryodhana made another plan against the Pandavas. They invited the Pandavas to Hastinapura for a gambling game. Not knowing of the cruel plan, the Pandavas accepted. The Pandavas and Draupadi went to Hastinapura. Shakuni, with his magical dice, made the Pandavas loose everything, including their wealth, jewelry, chariots, Indraprasta and lots more. Soon Yudhistira also lost his brothers and himself. In the end, Dushasana dragged Draupadi to the court and attempted to disrobe her. Remembering when Draupadi had called him sudputra in her svayamvara, Karna angrily called Draupadi a prostitute. Krishna saved Draupadi by continuing to magically add more to her clothing. After a long time. Dushasana gave up. In the end, it was decided that the Pandavas would go into exile for 12 years and incognito for 1 year. If they were identified during incognito they would repeat they exile and incognito.

Military Campaign

While the Pandavas were in exile, Karna started a military campaign. He led a huge army and subjugate many kings. He started at Panchala, Drupada’s kingdom and proceeded to reduced to submission the Kambhojas, Sakas, Kekeyas, Avantays, Gandharas, Madrakas, Trigartas, Tanganas, Panchalas, Videhas, Suhmas, Vangas, Nishadas, Kalingas, Vatsas, Ashmakas, Rishikas, forest tribes, and various mlecchas. He made all the kingdoms he subjugated pay tribute and swear allegiance to Duryodhana. When he got to Ayodhya, him and his army had an intense fight with King Shigra’s army. In the midst of the battle, Karna shot three sharp arrows at King Shigra and severely wounded him. King Shigra’s army surrendered. Karna and his army entered Ayodhya. Karna’s troops removed the flag of Ayodhya from the city gate. When Karna entered the royal palace, he bowed to the throne on which Rama had sat on thousands of years ago. He placed Ayodhya’s flag on the throne and yelled “Jai Shree Ram”! King Shigra started crying with happiness of being blessed with the view of such an incomparable brave warrior. When Karna finished his campaign and went to Hastinapura, he was welcomed and thanked by Dhritarashta.

Prelude to War

The Pandavas had successfully completed their exile and Duryodhana refused to give Indraprastha back to them. A war was declared between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Karna took Duryodhana’s side, along with Bhishma, Dronacharya, Kripacharya, and many other great warriors, even though they knew Duryodhana was evil. Realizing that Karna was invincible in battle because of his golden armor and earrings, Indra came in the form of a Brahmin to Karna. He knew Karna wouldn’t turn down a request while he was praying to Surya. He decided to ask Karna for his armor and earrings. Before Indra came, Surya warned Karna about Indra coming. Karna said that he will keep to his oath. When Indra as a brahmin came to Karna, Karna said, “I know who you are.” An ashamed Indra turned to his real identity and asked Karna for his armor and earrings. Karna gave it to him and immediately, the devas started showering flowers on Karna. Indra was impressed. He asked Karna to accept a gift in return. Karna said that he didn’t want anything. Upon Indra’s insistence, Karna asked for the Vasavi Shakti, the weapon of Indra. When released, this weapon would kill its target no matter what. Indra reluctantly gave it Karna and then vanished. Krishna told Kunti to inform Karna of his real identity and his birth. Kunti did so and Karna learned that his mother and father weren’t Adiratha and Radha. Karna was emotionally weakened Karna. Kunti knew that Karna was capable of killing all five of her sons in the upcoming war. She desperately went to Karna and tried to persuade him to join the Pandavas. Karna didn’t listen, saying he wouldn’t leave Duryodhana’s side. But Karna promised that only one of Kunti’s sons will die in the war: Either Karna, Yudhistira, Bhima, Arjuna, Sahadeva, or Nakula. He made Kunti promise that she won’t reveal to the Pandavas that they are his brothers till the end of the war.

Kurukshetra War and Death

It was decided that the war would take place at the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Bhishma didn;t want Karna to fight in the war because he wanted to save the Pandavas. Karna took a vow that he would only enter the battle after Bhishma died. Bhishma died on the 10th day and Karna entered the battle on the 11th day. Dronacharya became the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army. As the armies clashed, Karna started wrecking havoc among the Pandava soldiers. Throughout the day, Karna destroyed Pandava infantry and nobody could stop him. On the 12th day, Susharma took a vow that him and his Sampshapatakas and Trigartas would kill Arjuna or be killed. They lead Arjuna away from the battlefield and disstracted him, which allowed Karna to wreck more havoc. Around afternoon, Arjuna realized Bhagdatta was destroying Pandava armies. He left the Trigartas and killed Bhagdatta. Soon, Arjuna and Karna came face to face. They kept firing divine astras like the agneyastra at each other. In the morning before the 13th day of battle, Duryodhana went up to Dronachrya in fury. He yelled at Dronacharya for not doing anything as the Kauravas were losing each day of battle. Dronacharya set up a Chakravyuha. On the Pandava side, only Arjuna and his son Abhimanyu knew how to break it. Again, Susharma and his amssive army distracted Arjuna and took him far from the battlefield. When the battle started, the Pandavas were confused on what to do. It was decided that Abhimanyu would go in the chakra with Yudhistira, Bhima, Sahadeva, and Nakula behind him. When they entered the Chakravyu, Jayadratha used his boon to singlehandedly stop all four Pandavas from entering. Abhimanyu was alone. He proceeded to destroy the vyuha and reach the center. Waiting at the center were all the great Maharatis of the Kaurava army. Abhimanyu started defeating all them. Soon, Karna challenged him. Abhimanyu showered arrows at Karna, cutting his standard and armor. In shame, Karna turned back. The Kauravas realized Abhimanyu couldn’t be defeated by individual warriors. 6 Kauravas surrounded Abhimanyu. Karna cut off Abhimanyu’s bow and Abhimanyu was killed gruesomely. On the fourteenth day, Arjuna was furious. He had only one target: Jayadratha. Jayadratha had caused the death of his son. He vowed that he would either kill Jayadratha today or kill himself. The Kauravs heard of this and decided that they must all protect Jayadratha so that Arjuna will kill himself. They formed the Shakatvyuha that stretched for miles. At the end of the vyuha was Jayadratha. Karna, with a few other warriors, stood right next to Jayadratha. Arjuna attaacked and started killing hundreds and thousands of soldiers. He killed ruler after ruler. He even got past some of the greatest Maharathis of that time, including Dronacharya and Kritavarma. But it was already afternoon, and Arjuna was still far from Jayadratha. But Arjuna just continued his relentless slaugter of the Kaurava army. Yudhistira started to get worried for Arjuna and sent Satyaki to help Arjuna. Satyaki also started destoying more and more Kauravas and started catching up to Arjuna. Soon, Satyaki caught up to Arjuna. A worried Yudhistira now sent Bhima into the vyuha. Bhima killed many Kaurava warriors and soon confronted Karna. Both started firing arrows at each other with rapid speed. Bhima came closer to Karna’s chariot, intent on destroying Karna with his mace. Both warriors took up maces and started swingng at each other in fury. They again took up bows and fired at each other. Suddenly, Bhima cut down Karna’s bowstring and killed on of his charioteers. Karna immediately took up a golden lance and hurled it at Bhima. Bhima easily countered with crescent-headed arrows. Karna took up another bow and the battle went on. Bhima cut Karna’s bowstring once again. He rapidly killed Karna’s horses, broke his chariot and showered arrows at him. A shocked Karna went onto Durmukha’s chariot. Bhima also killed Durmukha and destroyed his chariot. An injured Karna went on another warrior’s chariot and left. Arjuna continued approaching Jayadratha. Krishna tricked the Kauravas and covered the sun with his Sudarshan chakra, so the Kauravs started cheeering. But suddenly, the sun appeared again and Arjuna could kill the celebrating Jayadratha. The armies kept fighting well past sunset. Ghatotgacha started destroying the Kaurava army as rakshasas were stonger at night. Ghatotgacha even overwhelmed Karna with maya. Duryodhana realized Ghatotgacha couldn’t be stopped. He told Karna to use his Vasavi Shakti on Ghatotgacha. Karna refused, saying that he was saving it for Arjuna. Duryodhana forced Karna to use it and Ghatotgacha was killed. On the fifteenth day, the Pandavas made a plan to kill Dronacharya. They followed their plan and Droncharya was killed by Dhristadyumna. Ashwastamma fired the Narayanastra and Agneyastra at the Pandava army and destroyed a huge part of it.

Skills

Karna was one of the best archers of his time, even better than Arjuna. He was also an amazing mace-fighter and was generally skilled at all forms of combat. Personality Karna always stayed true to his vows. He also liked giving to people whatever they requested. Karna hated cruelty and injustice, even to his foes.

Goddess Durga: The Mother of the Hindu Universe In Hinduism, the goddess Durga, also known as Shakti or Devi, is the protective mother of the universe. She is one of the faith's most popular deities, a protector of all that is good and harmonious in the world. Sitting astride a lion or tiger, the multi-limbed Durga battles the forces of evil in the world. Durga's Name and Its Meaning: In Sanskrit, Durga means "a fort" or "a place that is difficult to overrun," an apt metaphor for this deity's protective, militant nature. Durga is sometimes referred to as Durgatinashini, which literally translates into "the one who eliminates sufferings." Her Many Forms: In Hinduism, the major gods and goddesses have multiple incarnations, meaning they can appear on earth as any number of other deities. Durga is no different; among her many avatars are Kali, Bhagvati, Bhavani, Ambika, Lalita, Gauri, Kandalini, Java, and Rajeswari. When Durga appears as herself, she manifests in one of nine appellations or forms: Skondamata, Kusumanda, Shailaputri, Kaalratri, Brahmacharini, Maha Gauri, Katyayani, Chandraghanta, and Siddhidatri. Collectively known as the Navadurga, each of these deities have their own holidays in the Hindu calendar and special prayers and songs of praise. Durga's Appearance: Befitting her role as mother protector, Durga is multi-limbed so that she may always be ready to battle evil from any direction. In most depictions, she has between eight and 18 arms and holds a symbolic object in each hand. Like her consort Shiva, the goddess Durga is also referred to as Triyambake (the three-eyed goddess). Her left eye represents desire, symbolized by the moon; her right eye represents action, symbolized by the sun; and her middle eye stands for knowledge, symbolized by fire. Her Weaponry: Durga carries a variety of weapons and other items that she uses in her fight against evil. Each has a symbolic meaning important to Hinduism; these are the most significant: The conch: -shell symbolizes the Pranava or the mystic word Om, which indicates her holding on to God in the form of sound. The bow and arrows represent energy. By holding the bow and arrows both in one hand, Durga demonstrates her control over both aspects of energy—potential and kinetic. The thunderbolt: -signifies firmness in one's convictions. Just as a real bolt of lightning can destroy anything it strikes, Durga reminds Hindus to attack a challenge without losing confidence. The lotus: -in Durga's hand, not yet fully in bloom, represents the certainty of success but not finality. The lotus in Sanskrit is called Pankaj, which means "born of mud," reminding the faithful to stay true to their spiritual quest amid the worldly mud of lust and greed. The Sudarshan: -Chakra or beautiful discus, which spins around the index finger of the Goddess, signifies that the entire world is subservient to the will of Durga and is at her command. She uses this unfailing weapon to destroy evil and produce an environment conducive to the growth of righteousness. The sword: -that Durga holds in one of her hands symbolizes knowledge, which has the sharpness of a sword. Knowledge free from all doubts is symbolized by the shine of the sword. The trident or Trishul: -is a symbol of three qualities: Satwa (inactivity), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (nonactivity). Deva uses these to alleviate physical, mental, and spiritual suffering. Durga's Transport/Vagana: In Hindu art and iconography, Durga is frequently depicted standing atop or riding a tiger or lion, which represents power, will, and determination. In riding this fearsome beast, Durga symbolizes her mastery over all these qualities. Her bold pose is called Abhay Mudra, which means "freedom from fear." Just as the mother goddess confronts evil without fear, Hindu scripture teaches, so too should Hindu faithful conduct themselves in a righteous, courageous way. Navadurga and the 9 Forms of the Hindu Goddess Durga Durga is a very special deity, able to appear in nine different forms, each of which is endowed with unique powers and traits. Together, these nine manifestations are called Navadurga (translated as "nine Durgas"). Devout Hindus celebrate Durga and her many appellations during a nine-night festival called Navaratri, which is held in late September or early October, depending on when it falls on the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Each night of Navaratri honors one of the mother goddess' manifestations. Hindus believe ​that worshiping Durga with sufficient religious fervor will lift the divine spirit and fill them with renewed happiness. Read about each of the Navadurga in the order in which they are celebrated with prayer, song, and rituals during the nine nights of Navaratri. Shailaputri: Shailaputri, the first Manifestation of Durga. Navaratri begins with a night of worship and celebration in honor of Durga's avatar Shailaputri, whose name means "daughter of the mountains." Also known as Sati Bhavani, Parvati, Sanmayi, or Hemavati, she is the daughter of Hemavana, the king of the Himalayas. Shailaputri is considered to e the purest embodiment of Durga and the mother of nature. In iconography, she is depicted riding a bull and holding a trident and a lotus blossom. The lotus represents purity and devotion, while the prongs on the trident represent the past, present, and future. Brahmacharini: Brahmacharini, the Second Manifestation of Durga. On the second day of Navaratri, Hindus worship Brahmacharini, whose name means "one who practices devout austerity." She enlightens us in the magnificent embodiment of Durga with great powers and divine grace. Brahmacharini holds a rosary in her right hand, representing the special Hindu prayers recited in her honor, and a water utensil in her left hand, symbolizing marital bliss. Hindus believe she endows happiness, peace, prosperity, and grace upon all devotees who worship her. She is the way to emancipation, called Moksha. Chandraghanta: The Third Manifestation of Durga, Chandraghanta. Chandraghanta is the third manifestation of Durga, representing peace, tranquility, and prosperity in life. Her name is derived from the chandra (half moon) in her forehead in the shape of a ghanta (bell). Chandraghanta is charming, has a golden bright complexion, and rides a lion. Like Durga, Chandraghanta has multiple limbs, usually 10, each holding a weapon, and three eyes. She is all-seeing and ever-vigilant, ready to battle evil from whatever direction. Kushmanda: Kushmanda, Fourth Manifestation of Durga. Kushmanda is the fourth form of the mother goddess, and her name means "creator of the universe," for she is the one who brought light to the dark cosmos. Like other manifestations of Durga, Kushmanda has multiple limbs (usually eight or 10), in which she holds weapons, glitter, a rosary, and other holy objects. The glitter is particularly significant because it represents the sparkling light that she brings to the world. Kushmanda rides a lion, symbolizing ​strength and courage in the face of adversity. Skandamata: Durga's Fifth Manifestation, Skandamata. Skandamata is the mother of Skanda or Lord Kartikeya, who was chosen by gods as their commander-in-chief in the war against the demons. She is worshipped on the fifth day of Navaratri. Emphasizing her pure and divine nature, Skanda Mata is seated on a lotus, and she has four arms and three eyes. She holds the infant Skanda in her right upper arm and a lotus in her right hand, which is slightly raised upward. With her left arm, she grants blessings to the Hindu faithful, and she holds a second lotus in her left hand. Katyayani: The Sixth Manifestation of Durga, Katyayani. Katyayani is worshipped on the sixth day of Navaratri. Like Kalaratri, who is worshipped on the following night, Katyayani is a fearsome sight, with wild hair and 18 arms, each clutching a weapon. Born in a fit of divine rage and anger, she emits a radiant light from her body from which darkness and evil cannot hide. Despite her appearance, Hindus believe that she can bestow a sense of calm and inner peace upon all who worship her. Like Kushmanda, Katyayani rides a lion, ready at all times to confront evil. Kalaratri: Kalaratri, the Seventh Manifestation of Durga. Kalaratri is also known as Shubhamkari; her name means "one who does good." She is a fearsome-looking deity, with a dark complexion, disheveled hair, four arms, and three eyes. Lightning issues from the necklace she wears and flames shoot from her mouth. Like Kali, the goddess who destroys evil, Kaal Ratri has black skin and is worshipped as a protector of Hindu faithful, one to be both honored and feared. In her left hand, she holds a vajra, or spiked club, and a dagger, both of which she uses to fight the forces of evil. Her right hands, meanwhile, beckon to the faithful, offering them protection from darkness and allaying all fears. Mahagauri: Mahagauri, the Eighth Manifestation of Durga. Mahagauri is worshipped on the eighth day of Navaratri. Her name, which means "extremely white," refers to her luminous beauty, which radiates from her body. Hindus believe that by paying homage to Maha Gauri, all past, present, and future sins will be washed away, imparting a deep sense of inner peace. She wears white clothes, has four arms, and rides on a bull, one of the most sacred animals in Hinduism. Her right hand is in the pose of allaying fear, and her right lower hand holds a trident. The left upper hand holds a damaru (a small tamborine or drum) while the lower one is thought to grant blessings to her devotees. Siddhidatri: Siddhidatri, the Ninth Manifestation of Durga. Siddhidatri is the final form of Durga, celebrated on the final night of Navaratri. Her name means "giver of supernatural power," and Hindus believe she bestows blessings upon all deities and devotees of the faith. Siddhidatri grants wisdom and insight to those who appeal to her, and Hindus believe that she can do the same for deities who worship her as well. Like some of Durga's other manifestations, Siddhidatri rides a lion. She has four limbs and carries a trident, a spinning disc called a Sudarshana Chakra, a conch shell, and a lotus. The conch, called a shankha, represents longevity, while the spinning disc symbolizes the soul or timelessness. 108 Names of the Goddess Durga: There are many incarnations of Durga: Kali, Bhagvati, Bhavani, Ambika, Lalita, Gauri, Kandalini, Java, Rajeswari, et al. Her nine appellations are Skondamata, Kusumanda, Shailaputri, Kaalratri, Brahmacharini, Maha Gauri, Katyayani, Chandraghanta, and Siddhidatri. 108 Names From the Devi Mahatmya (Chandi) According to the scriptures, Lord Shiva called the Mother Goddess Durga in 108 names in order to please her. During Navaratri and Durga Puja, devotees utter prayers in the 108 names of the Goddess. These names appear in the Purana called ​Devi Mahatmyam or Devi Mahatmya (The Glory of the Goddess) that narrates the story of Goddess Durga's battle and eventual victory over the demon king Mahishasura. Composed around 400–500 CE in Sanskrit by the ancient Indian sage Markandeya, this Hindu scripture is also known as the Durga Saptashat or simply the Chandi. Aadya: The primordial reality Aarya: The Goddess Abhavya: The fearful Goddess Aeindri: The one who is powered Lord Indra Agnijwala: The one who is capable of spewing fire Ahankara: The one who is full of pride Ameyaa: The one who is beyond any measure Anantaa: The one who is infinite and immeasurable Aja: The one who has no birth Anekashastrahasta: The possessor of a many weaponed hand AnekastraDhaarini: The one who holds multiple weapons Anekavarna: The one who has multiple complexions Aparna: The one who abstains from eating even leaves while fasting Apraudha: The one who never ages Bahula: The one who has diverse forms and manifestations Bahulaprema: The one who is loved by all Balaprada: The giver of strength Bhavini: The beautiful one Bhavya: The one who stands for the future Bhadrakaali: The gentle form of Goddess Kali Bhavani: The mother of the universe Bhavamochani: The one who is the liberator of the universe Bhavaprita: The one who is adored by the entire universe Bhavya: The one who has magnificence Brahmi: The one who has the power of Lord Brahma Brahmavadini: The one who is omnipresent Buddhi: The embodiment of intelligence Buddhida: The one who bestows wisdom Chamunda: The killer of the demons called Chanda and Munda Chandi: The fearful form of Durga
Chandraghanta: The one who has mighty bells Chinta: The one who takes care of tension Chita: The one who prepares the death-bed Chiti: The one who has a mind that thinks
Chitra: The one with the quality of being picturesque Chittarupa: The one who is in a state of thought Dakshakanya: The one known to be the daughter of Daksha Dakshayajñavinaashini: The one who interrupts the sacrifice of Daksha Devamata: The one who is known as the Mother Goddess Durga: The one who is unconquerable Ekakanya: The one who is known to be the girl child Ghorarupa: The one who has an aggressive outlook Gyaana: The one who is the embodiment of knowledge Jalodari: The one who is the abode of the ethereal universe Jaya: The one who emerges as the victorious Kaalaratri: The Goddess who is black like night Kaishori : The one who is an adolescent Kalamanjiiraranjini: The one who wears a musical anklet Karaali: The one who is violent Katyayani: The one who is worshipped by sage Katyanan Kaumaari: The one who is an adolescent Komaari: The one known to be a beautiful adolescent Kriya: The one who is in action Krooraa: The one who is murderous on demons Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth Maheshwari: The one who possesses the power of Lord Mahesha Maatangi: The Goddess of Matanga MadhuKaitabhaHantri: The one who killed the demon-duo Madhu and Kaitabha Mahaabala: The one who has immense strength Mahatapa: The one with severe penance MahishasuraMardini: The destroyer of the bull-demon Mahishaasura Mahodari: The one who has a huge belly which stores the universe Manah: The one with a mind Matangamunipujita: The one who is worshipped by the Sage Matanga Muktakesha: The one who flaunts open tresses Narayani: The one known to be the destructive aspect of Lord Narayana (Brahma) NishumbhaShumbhaHanani: The killer of the demon-brothers Shumbha Nishumbha Nitya: The one known as The Eternal Paatala: The one with the color red Paatalavati: The one who is clothed in red Parameshvari: The one known as the Ultimate Goddess Pattaambaraparidhaana: The one who wears a dress made out of leather Pinaakadharini: The one who holds the trident of Shiva Pratyaksha: The one who is original Praudha: The one who is old Purushaakriti: The one who takes the shape of a man Ratnapriya: The one who is adorned or loved by jewels Raudramukhi: The one who has a frightening face like the destroyer Rudra Saadhvi: The one who is self-confident Sadagati: The one who is always in motion, bestowing Moksha (salvation) Sarvaastradhaarini: The one who possesses all the missile weapons Sarvadaanavaghaatini: The one who possesses the power to kill all the demons Sarvamantramayi: The one who possesses all the instruments of thought Sarvashaastramayi: The one who is skillful in all theories Sarvasuravinasha: The one who is the destroyer of all demons Sarvavahanavahana: The one who rides all vehicles Sarvavidya: The one who is knowledgeable Sati: The one who got burned alive Satta: The one who is above all beings Satya: The one who resembles truth Satyanandasvarupini: The one who has the form of eternal bliss Savitri: The one who is the daughter of the Sun God Savitri Shaambhavi: The one who is the companion of Shambhu Shivadooti: The one who is the ambassador of Lord Shiva Shooldharini: The one who holds a monodent Sundari: The one who is gorgeous Sursundari: The one who is extremely beautiful Tapasvini: The one who is engaged in repentance Trinetra: The one who has three-eyes Vaarahi: The one who rides on Varaah Vaishnavi: The one who is invincible Vandurga: The one known as the Goddess of Forests Vikrama: The one who is violent Vimalauttkarshini: The one who provides joy Vishnumaya: The one who is the charm of Lord Vishnu Vriddhamaata: The one known as the old mother Yati: The one who renounces the world or the ascetic Yuvati: The one who is a young woman

Kali:
The Dark Mother Goddess in Hinduism The love between the Divine Mother and her human children is a unique relationship. Kali, the Dark Mother is one such deity with whom devotees have a very loving and intimate bond, in spite of her fearful appearance. In this relationship, the worshipper becomes a child and Kali assumes the form of the ever-caring mother. "O Mother, even a dullard becomes a poet who meditates upon thee raimented with space, three-eyed, creatrix of the three worlds, whose waist is beautiful with a girdle made of numbers of dead men's arms..." (From a Karpuradistotra hymn, translated from Sanskrit by Sir John Woodroffe) Who is Kali : Kali is the fearful and ferocious form of the mother goddess. She assumed the form of a powerful goddess and became popular with the composition of the Devi Mahatmya, a text of the 5th - 6th century AD. Here she is depicted as having born from the brow of Goddess Durga during one of her battles with the evil forces. As the legend goes, in the battle, Kali was so much involved in the killing spree that she got carried away and began destroying everything in sight. To stop her, Lord Shiva threw himself under her feet. Shocked at this sight, Kali stuck out her tongue in astonishment and put an end to her homicidal rampage. Hence the common image of Kali shows her in her mêlée mood, standing with one foot on Shiva's chest, with her enormous tongue stuck out. The Fearful Symmetry Kali is represented with perhaps the fiercest features amongst all the world's deities. She has four arms, with a sword in one hand and the head of a demon in another. The other two hands bless her worshippers, and say, "fear not"! She has two dead heads for her earrings, a string of skulls as a necklace, and a girdle made of human hands as her clothing. Her tongue protrudes from her mouth, her eyes are red, and her face and breasts are sullied with blood. She stands with one foot on the thigh, and another on the chest of her husband, Shiva. Symbols: Kali's fierce form is strewed with awesome symbols. Her black complexion symbolizes her all-embracing and transcendental nature. Says the Mahanirvana Tantra: "Just as all colors disappear in black, so all names and forms disappear in her". Her nudity is primeval, fundamental, and transparent like Nature — the earth, sea, and sky. Kali is free from the illusory covering, for she is beyond all maya or "false consciousness." Kali's garland of fifty human heads that stands for the fifty letters of the Sanskrit alphabet, symbolizes infinite knowledge. Her girdle of severed human hands signifies work and liberation from the cycle of karma. Her white teeth show her inner purity, and her red lolling tongue indicates her omnivorous nature — "her indiscriminate enjoyment of all the world's 'flavors'." Her sword is the destroyer of false consciousness and the eight bonds that bind us. Her three eyes represent past, present, and future, — the three modes of time — an attribute that lies in the very name Kali ('Kala' in Sanskrit means time). The eminent translator of Tantrik texts, Sir John Woodroffe in Garland of Letters, writes, "Kali is so called because She devours Kala (Time) and then resumes Her own dark formlessness." Kali's proximity to cremation grounds where the five elements or "Pancha Mahabhuta" come together and all worldly attachments are absolved, again point to the cycle of birth and death. The reclined Shiva lying prostrate under the feet of Kali suggests that without the power of Kali (Shakti), Shiva is inert. Forms, Temples, and Devotees Kali's guises and names are diverse. Shyama, Adya Ma, Tara Ma, and Dakshina Kalika, Chamundi are popular forms. Then there is Bhadra Kali, who is gentle, Shyamashana Kali, who lives only in the cremation ground, and so on. The most notable Kali temples are in Eastern India — Dakshineshwar and Kalighat in Kolkata (Calcutta) and Kamakhya in Assam, a seat of tantric practices. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Swami Vivekananda, Vamakhyapa, and Ramprasad are some of the legendary devotees of Kali. One thing was common to these saints — all of them loved the goddess as intimately as they loved their own mother. My child, you need not know much in order to please Me. Only Love Me dearly. Speak to me, as you would talk to your mother, if she had taken you in her arms." Kali Ma: the divine mother, appears fearsome. Kali goddess, the Divine Mother, the Dark Mother, the Terrible Mother. She is the Hindu goddess of time, creation, preservation, and destruction. As fearsome as she may appear, she is the most compassionate goddess of them all. She rides a lion. She wears a garland of severed heads and a skirt of dismembered arms, or nothing at all. Her dark, disheveled hair flows freely. Her eyes are red with intoxication and rage. Her red tongue sticks out under sharp white fangs that shine against blue black skin. Her many hands carry a sword, a trident, a severed head dripping fresh blood, and a kapala or skull cup catching the blood. She is often accompanied by serpents and a jackal. She dances in graveyards. At first glance and without understanding, Kali ma may appear more like a demon and less like a loving goddess. But she is simply misunderstood. The History of Kali : Kali ma goddess is willing and able to do the necessary dark deeds that others are not capable of. She is willing to destroy the ego. She happily kills demons and laps up their blood. Her love is so fierce that she destroys evil in order to grant liberation. She destroys our attachment to the temporary body—and reminds us to enjoy the beauty of life, because death is certainly coming. Her garland of severed heads represents her children who she has liberated from the illusion of the ego. Kali ma shows us that this body is temporary and reminds us not to become too attached to it. Her garland is either shown with 108 or 51 heads. The number 108 is auspicious in Hinduism. It represents the wholeness of existence, as well as the Earth, Moon, and Sun. The number 51 represents the 51 characters of the Sanskrit language—the origin of sound. Kali is often considered the mother of language and the mother of all mantras. Kali Appearance : Kali’s skirt is made of dismembered human arms, which represent action. All actions—karma—go to Kali ma goddess. At death, all souls merge with Kali ma and then are reborn again with their karma restored. This is also a reminder to not become attached to the fruits of your actions, as they do not belong to you. Kali ma appears naked, or dressed in only the garland of heads and skirt of arms because she is infinite and pure. She is sometimes called digambari, meaning “clad in space” because no finite clothing can clothe her infinite form. She is so pure that she is beyond the need for clothing, as this is only Maya, or illusion. Her skin is dark black (often shown as dark blue) because she is limitless, all pervading, and transcendent. She is Nirguna Brahman, meaning the Highest Brahman—the ultimate reality—in its greatest unmanifest state. Embrace the Knowledge: She embodies the gunas, or the three qualities of Prakriti or nature. Her white teeth represent sattva, goodness and purity. She uses her sattvic nature to create life. Her tongue is red, which represents rajas, passion or activity. She uses her rajasic nature to preserve life. Her eyes are red with rage and intoxication, which represents tamas, ignorance or inertia. She destroys with tamas. In her left hands, Kali goddess carries a sword of knowledge to destroy ignorance and a severed head which represents liberation from the ego, or attachment to the body. Kali’s two right hands are shown in abhaya mudra (fearlessness), and varada mudra (blessings). She is most popularly depicted with four arms, though sometimes with ten. Her ten armed form is called Mahakali, and her ten arms are depicted holding many different ritualistic objects and weapons, each of which represent the power of one of the Devas. This implies that Mahakali is responsible for the powers of each of these deities. Kali goddess is the consort of Shiva, the Destroyer and the Transformer. The two inhabit cremation grounds, reminding us that the body is a temporary condition. Kali ma goddess is often seen dancing on Shiva as he lies still and unperturbed beneath her. Shiva may be the destroyer, but it is Shiva that must calm Kali down when she becomes too violent. And Kali ma actively provokes Shiva’s destructive tendencies. They are the destroyers of illusion. By destroying the ego and the illusion of duality, they grant moksha, or liberation. Kali ma is often called upon in battle. One of the most well-known stories where Kali ma appears is in the battle against the demon Raktabija. In this battle, Raktabija is undefeated because of his ability to produce a clone of himself for every drop of his blood that touches the ground. The goddess Durga calls upon Kali ma to defeat the demon and his countless clones. Kali ma goddess defeats him by drinking every last drop of his blood so that he can no longer replicate himself, and she eats each of the demon’s clones. Kali ma is called upon in critical times when action must be taken. She is formidable. She is willing to take great measures to protect her children, just like any good mother. But just like a good mother, she is also willing to punish her children when necessary in order to teach them.

Kali%20Maa

Goddess Lakshmi means Good Luck to Hindus. The word 'Lakshmi' is derived from the Sanskrit word "Laksya", meaning 'aim' or 'goal', and she is the goddess of wealth and prosperity, both material and spiritual. Lakshmi is the household goddess of most Hindu families, and a favorite of women. Although she is worshiped daily, the festive month of October is Lakshmi's special month. Lakshmi Puja is celebrated on the full moon night of Kojagari Purnima. Lakshmi is depicted as a beautiful woman of golden complexion, with four hands, sitting or standing on a full-bloomed lotus and holding a lotus bud, which stands for beauty, purity and fertility. Her four hands represent the four ends of human life: dharma or righteousness, "kama" or desires, "artha" or wealth, and "moksha" or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Cascades of gold coins are seen flowing from her hands, suggesting that those who worship her gain wealth. Lakshmi is one of the mother goddesses and is addressed as "mata" (mother) instead of just "devi" (goddess). As a female counterpart of Lord Vishnu, Mata Lakshmi is also called 'Shri', the female energy of the Supreme Being. She is the goddess of prosperity, wealth, purity, generosity, and the embodiment of beauty, grace and charm. The importance attached to the presence of Lakshmi in every household makes her an essentially domestic deity. Householders worship Lakshmi for the well being and prosperity of the family. Businessmen and women also regard her equally and offer her daily prayers. On the full moon night following Dusshera or Durga Puja, Hindus worship Lakshmi ceremonially at home, pray for her blessings, and invite neighbors to attend the puja. It is believed that on this full moon night the goddess herself visits the homes and replenishes the inhabitants with wealth. A special worship is also offered to Lakshmi on the auspicious Diwali night. Om Namah Shivah

SARASWATI THE HINDU GODDESS OF WISDOM Saraswati the goddess of knowledge, who is praised by the wise, who is the wife of the creator, may she reside on the tip of my tongue. Saraswati is one of the Tridevi (the wife of the Trideva). She is the wife and daughter of Brahma, the creator. Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, and learning. She lives in Satyaloka with Brahma. Family Father: Brahma Husband: Brahma Birth and Marriage When Brahma was creating the universe, he started meditating on sattva guna. Brahma began swelling up in his mind and because of this, a girl was born. Brahma asked her who she is. “I am born of you. Please assign me my duties in this universe,” the girl said. “You will be called Saraswati,” Brahma responded. “You will stay on the tip of everybody’s tongue as knowledge and music. Your second form will be that of a river. Your third form will be with me as my wife.” Saraswati, goddess of knowledge and the arts, embodies the wisdom of Devi. She is the river of consciousness that enlivens creation; she is the dawn-goddess whose rays dispel the darkness of ignorance. Without her there is only chaos and confusion. To realize her one must go beyond the pleasures of the senses and rejoice in the serenity of the spirit. Saraswati wears neither jewels or paints herself with bright colors. The white sari she adorns reflects her essential purity, her rejection of all that is base and materialistic. She transcends the cravings of the flesh and rejoices in the powers of the mind as the patron of pure wisdom. She embodies all that is pure and sublime in Nature. The four Vedas, books of universal knowledge, were her offspring. Her mount, the swan, personifies pure knowledge and her herald, the peacock, is a symbol of the arts. Schools and libraries are her temples; books, pens, all tools of the artist and musical instruments are the items used in puja to the enlightening goddess of wisdom. The Birth of Saraswati In the beginning there was chaos. Everything existed in a formless, fluid state. "How do I bring order to this disorder?" wondered Brahma, the creator. "With Knowledge", said Devi. Heralded by a peacock, sacred books in one hand and a veena in the other dressed in white Devi emerged from Brahma's mouth riding a swan as the goddess Saraswati. "Knowledge helps man find possibilities where once he saw problems." Said the goddess. Under her tutelage Brahma acquired the ability to sense, think, comprehend and communicate. He began looking upon chaos with eyes of wisdom and thus saw the beautiful potential that lay therein. Brahma discovered the melody of mantras in the cacophony of chaos. In his joy he named Saraswati, Vagdevi, goddess of speech and sound. The sound of mantras filled the universe with vital energy, or prana. Things began to take shape and the cosmos acquired a structure: the sky dotted with stars rose to form the heavens; the sea sank into the abyss below, the earth stood in between. Gods became lords of the celestial spheres; demons ruled the nether regions, humans walked on earth. The sun rose and set, the moon waxed and waned, the tide flowed and ebbed. Seasons changed, seeds germinated, plants bloomed and withered, animals migrated and reproduced as randomness gave way to the rhythm of life. Brahma thus became the creator of the world with Saraswati as his wisdom. Saraswati was the first being to come into Brahma's world. Brahma began to look upon her with eyes of desire. She turned away saying, "All I offer must be used to elevate the spirit, not indulge the senses." Brahma could not control his amorous thoughts and his infatuation for the lovely goddess grew. He continued to stare at Saraswati. He gave himself four heads facing every direction so that he could always be able to feast his eyes on Saraswati's beauty. Saraswati moved away from Brahma, first taking the form of a cow. Brahma then followed her as a bull. Saraswati then changed into a mare; Brahma gave chase as a horse. Every time Saraswati turned into a bird or a beast he followed her as the corresponding male equivalent. No matter how hard Brahma tried he could not catch Saraswati in any of her forms. The goddess with multiple forms came to be known as Shatarupa. She personified material reality, alluring yet fleeting. Saraswati Curses Brahma Angered by his display of unbridled passion Saraswati cursed Brahma, "You have filled the world with longing that is the seed of unhappiness. You have fettered the soul in the flesh. You are not worthy of reverence. May there be hardly any temple or festival in your name." So it came to pass that there are only two temples of Brahma in India; one at Pushkar, Rajistan and the other in Kumbhakonam, Tamil Nadu. Undaunted by the curse, Brahma continued to cast his lustful looks upon Saraswati. He gave himself a fifth head to enhance his gaze. Bhairava, Shiva, Confronts Brahma Brahma's action motivated by desire confined consciousness and excited the ego. It disturbed the serenity of the cosmos and roused Shiva, the supreme ascetic from his meditation. Shiva opened his eyes, sensed Saraswati's discomfort and in a fit of rage turned into Bhairava, lord of terror. His eyes were red, his growl menacing. He lunged towards Brahma and with his sharp claws, wretched off Brahma's fifth head. The violence subdued Brahma's passion. Brahma's cut head seared through Bhairava's flesh and clung to his hand sapping him of all his strength and driving him mad. The lord of terror ranted and raved losing control of his senses. Saraswati, pleased with Bhairava's timely action, rushed to his rescue. With her gentle touch she nursed him like a child, restoring his sanity. Brahma, sobered by his encounter with the Lord of terror sought an escape from the maze of his own desire. Saraswati revealed to him the doctrine for his own liberation. Brahma sought to conduct a yagna, fire sacrifice, to cleanse himself and start anew. In order to conduct a yagna ritual the assistance of a wife is needed. Brahma chose Saraswati to be his wife and thus they were reconciled. Saraswati, her Veena and the song of the Gandharva The Gandharvas were demigods who sprang from the fragrance of flowers. Once they stole the Soma plant whose inebriating and invigorating sap was much sought after by the devas. The theft of the Soma infuriated all the gods. Saraswati promised to recover the soma plant. She went to the garden of the gandharvas and with her veena created enchanting tunes: the ragas and the raginis. "Give us this music," begged the gandharvas. "Only if you give back the Soma plant to the devas," said the goddess. The gandharvas returned the Soma plant and learned how to play music from Saraswati. In time they became celestial musicians whose melodies had more power to rouse the mind than any intoxicant. Saraswati Outwits a Demon A demon practiced many austerities to appease Brahma. The demon sought to conquer the three worlds and the gods feared that he may ask a boon that would make him invincible; the gods sought the help of the goddess Saraswati. The goddess sat on the tongue of the demon so that when it was time to ask for a boon all he could say was, "I would like to never stay awake." "So be it," said Brahma. As a result, the demon wanted to conquer the three worlds ended up going to sleep forever. Saraswati, Lakshmi and Brahma Brahma created the universe with the help of Saraswati. Brahma was the guardian of the cosmos. He too needed Saraswati's support to sustain the cosmos. Using her knowledge he instituted and maintained dharma, sacred laws that ensure stability and growth in society. Brahma also needed the help of Lakshmi, goddess of wealth, who gave him the wherewithal to ensure cosmic order. The question arose: who did Brahma need more? Lakshmi or Saraswati? Wealth or knowledge? The goddesses argued, "Knowledge does not fill an empty stomach." Said Lakshmi. "Wealth keeps man alive but gives no meaning to life." Said Saraswati. "I need both knowledge and wealth to sustain the cosmos. Without knowledge I cannot plan. Without wealth I cannot implement a plan. Wealth sustains life; the arts give value to life. Thus both Lakshmi and Saraswati are needed to live a full life. Saraswati Saves the World from Shiva's Third Eye and the Beast of Doom Shiva was woken from his meditations and looked around to discover a world on the brink of corruption and being unsalvageable. Shiva decided it was time to wipe the slate clean. Shiva, the destroyer, opened his world destroying third eye attempting to destroy the three worlds.. Out came a terrible fire that threatened all existence. There was panic everywhere. Saraswati calmly stated, "Do not worry. Shiva's fire burns only that which is impure and corrupt."; She took the form of a river and with her pure waters picked up the dreaded fire from Shiva Badavagni - the beast of doom. "So long as the world is pure and man wise, this terrible creature will remain on the bottom of the sea. When wisdom is abandoned and man corrupts the world, Badavagni will emerge and destroy the universe," foretold the wise goddess. 108 Different Names of Goddess Saraswati

  1. Saraswati
  2. Mahabhadra
  3. Mahamaya
  4. Varaprada
  5. Padmanilaya
  6. Shripada
  7. Padmavaktraga
  8. Padmakshi
  9. Shivanuja
  10. Pustakabhrita
  11. Jnanamudra
  12. Rama
  13. Para
  14. Kamarupa
  15. Mahavidya
  16. Mahapataka Nashini
  17. Mahashraya
  18. Malini
  19. Mahabhoga
  20. Mahabhuja
  21. Mahabhaga
  22. Mahotsaha
  23. Divyanga
  24. Suravandita
  25. Mahakali
  26. Mahapasha
  27. Mahakara
  28. Mahankusha
  29. Pita
  30. Vimala
  31. Vishwa
  32. Vidyunmala
  33. Vaishnavi
  34. Chandrika
  35. Chandravadana
  36. Chandralekha
  37. Savitri
  38. Surasa
  39. Devi
  40. Divyalankarabhushita
  41. Vagdevi
  42. Vasudha
  43. Tivra
  44. Mahabhadra
  45. Mahabala
  46. Bhogada
  47. Bharati
  48. Bhama
  49. Gomati
  50. Govinda
  51. Shiva
  52. Jatila
  53. Vindhyavasa
  54. Vindhyachalavirajita
  55. Chandika
  56. Vaishnavi
  57. Brahmi
  58. Brahmajnanaikasadhana
  59. Saudamini
  60. Sudhamurti
  61. Subhadra
  62. Surapujita
  63. Suvasini
  64. Sunasa
  65. Vinidra
  66. Padmalochana
  67. Vidyarupa
  68. Vishalakshi
  69. Brahmajaya
  70. Mahaphala
  71. Trayimurti
  72. Trikalajna
  73. Triguna
  74. Shastrarupini
  75. Shumbhasura
  76. Shubhada
  77. Swaratmika
  78. Raktabijanihantri
  79. Chamunda
  80. Ambika
  81. Mundakayapraharana
  82. Dhumralochanamardana
  83. Sarvadevastuta
  84. Saumya
  85. Namaskrita
  86. Kalaratri
  87. Kaladhara
  88. Rupasaubhagyadayini
  89. Vagdevi
  90. Vararoha
  91. Varahi
  92. Varijasana
  93. Chitrambara
  94. Chitragandha
  95. Chitramalyavibhushita
  96. Kanta
  97. Kamaprada
  98. Vandya
  99. Vidyadharasupujita
  100. Shwetanana
  101. Nilabhuja
  102. Chaturvargaphalaprada
  103. Chaturanana Samrajya
  104. Raktamadhya
  105. Niranjana
  106. Hamsasana
  107. Nilajangha
  108. Brahmavishnushivatmika

Aruna Aruna or Arun is the charioteer of Surya deva. Everyday Surya deva travels through the sky in a chariot driven by Aruna. Aruna lives in Suryaloka along with Surya deva and many others. Aruna seated in Surya's chariot, steering the 7 white horses Family Father: Kashyapa Mother: Vinata Brother: Garuda Wife: Syeni Sons: Sampati, Jatayu, Vali (from feminine form), Sugreeva (from feminine form) Wives: Indra (from feminine form), Surya (from feminine form) Birth and Cursing his Mother Vinata and Kadru were wives of Kashyapa. Kadru was the mother of a thousand snakes, while Vinata had two eggs that hadn’t hatched for a long time. Out of frustration, Vinata decided to break one of her eggs. Inside, was a half-born baby, Aruna. He cursed his mother that she will become the servant of someone. Upon Vinata’s pleading, Aruna told her that if she waited on the second egg, she would be saved by the child inside it. Aruna then disappeared. The second egg later hatched and Garuda was born. For the rest of the story, see Garuda How he became Surya’s charioteer During the churning of the ocean, when the amrit finally emerged out of the ocean, Vishnu deva came in the form of Mohini, (a beautiful lady) to distribute the amrit to the devas and asuras. She made the asuras and devas sit down in rows. She started dancing gracefully and all the asuras were attracted to her. During her dancing, she was cleverly distributing the amrit to the devas when the asuras were not looking. An asura named Rahu noticed this and took the form of a deva, sitting in the row of devas between Surya and Chandra. Surya and Chandra, who realized that the deva in between them was no other than other than the asura Rahu, stopped Mohini right when she was pouring a drop into Rahu’s drop. Mohini quickly sliced Rahu in half, but a drop of the amrit had already gone into Rahu’s mouth. The two parts of his body survived. His torso and legs became known as Ketu, and his head as Rahu. Rahu and Ketu joined the Navagrahas.

Rahu and Ketu wanted revenge on Surya and Chandra and they did this by occasionally swallowing one of them. These periods are called eclipses. Eventually Surya or Chandra would wriggle out and the eclipse would be over. As this became more and more frequent, Surya deva got really angry. He multiplied the amount of heat he gave out. This effected the lives on Earth, heaven and other planets and how they would survive. The devas went to Brahma deva for a solution. Brahma deva decided to put a screen in front of Surya deva to lessen the amount of light and heat he gave out. He created a fireproof chariot and called Aruna, who could withstand and lessen the heat and light given by Surya, to drive it. Brahma deva then called Surya and blessed him. He told Surya to calm down because his immense heat was affecting living beings on Earth and devas in Swarga. Surya slowly calmed down and decided that Aruna would drive his chariot every day with Surya in it, to make the sun rise and set. He also appointed Aruna as the god of the bright sky right before sunrise. From then on, this bright sky before the sunrise became known as Arunodaya. Feminine Form Once a women named Silavati undertook great penance to save the life of her husband. She requested Surya to not rise till she finished her penance. Because of this Aruna deva got a break. He asked Surya deva if he could go to Swarga for a bit of entertainment. Surya granted him the permission. When he arrived at Swarga, he was told that that currently, no male was allowed to enter the entertainment hall besides Indra deva. He took the form of an apsara named Aruni and entered. Indra was attracted to Aruni, which resulted in them being married and having a son. Aruni gave this beautiful son to Ahalya, sage Gautama’s wife. He then took his normal male form and resumed his duties as Surya’s charioteer, since Silavati’s penance was over. When he narrarated this story to Surya deva, Surya deva wished to see Aruna’s feminine form. Aruna agreed to Surya’s wishes. When Aruna turned into his feminine form, Surya deva was attracted and their union resulted in the birth of another beautiful son, which Aruna again gave to Ahalya. Aruna took his normal form and resumed his duties as a charioteer. Ahalya really loved the two children, but Gautama rishi did not like the fact that he had a son of Surya and Indra living in his abode. He turned both of them into monkeys. When Indra came to know about this he took both of the children to Indraloka (Swarga). There he named his son Vali (Bali) and Surya’s son Sugreeva. The king of Kishkinda had not had a son for many years. He requested Indra to give him Sugreeva and Vali. Indra happily accepted this. It was these two brothers who were two of the major characters in the Ramayana. Aruna and Garuda- Two Great Brothers This happened before the birth of Garuda. Thus the curse of Aruna on his mother Vinata came true. Then Garuda was born when the time came, bursting out from the egg. Soon after his birth, he grew in size and ascended the skies. Suffering from the fangs of hunger, Garuda looked fierce and his roaring made him appear terrible. He looked like an ocean fire. The Devas were terrified of him and sought the protection of Agni, the God of Fire. Agni said, “He is Garuda. He is equal to me in strength and splendour. He is the mighty son of Kasyapa and is born to make Vinata happy. He is the destroyer of the Nagas, a foe of the Asuras and a well-wisher of the Devas. So there is no need for you to fear him. Come with me and look at him from close quarters.” The Devas then praised Garuda acknowledging his greatness and appealed to him to decrease his body size and splendor since his mighty stature and roar were making many creatures panic. Garuda accordingly diminished his size and splendor. He then carried his elder brother Aruna on his back and went to his mother’s place. In the meanwhile Surya, the Sun God who was sought to be swallowed by Rahu during the Solar eclipse became angry that he had to bear the brunt of Rahu’s anger though he had acted only in the interest of all the Devas and for the well being of the world. He was sore that the world was watching passively when he was being devoured by Rahu. So he decided to destroy the world using his rays. He went to the mountains of the West and began to radiate his heat towards the world. The sages who were surprised by the intensity of heat at midnight went to Brahma, the Creator and expressed their anguish and consternation. Brahma told them of Sun’s resolve to destroy the world. As soon as the Sun rose in the East, the world would be burnt to ashes, he said. But he assured the sages that he had already provided a remedy to the problem by making Aruna, the elder son of Kashyapa the Sun’s charioteer. Aruna would absorb all the Sun's heat and save the world from destruction, he said. Aruna, at the behest of Brahma, did all that he was ordered to do. And Surya (the Sun God) rose, veiled by Aruna's person. Brahma deva then called Surya and blessed him. He told Surya to calm down because his immense heat was affecting living beings on Earth and devas in Swarga. Surya slowly calmed down and decided that Aruna would drive his chariot every day with Surya in it, to make the sun rise and set. He also appointed Aruna as the god of the bright sky right before sunrise. From then on, this bright sky before the sunrise became known as Arunodaya. Feminine Form Once a women named Silavati undertook great penance to save the life of her husband. She requested Surya to not rise till she finished her penance. Because of this Aruna deva got a break. He asked Surya deva if he could go to Swarga for a bit of entertainment. Surya granted him the permission. When he arrived at Swarga, he was told that that currently, no male was allowed to enter the entertainment hall besides Indra deva. He took the form of an apsara named Aruni and entered. Indra was attracted to Aruni, which resulted in them being married and having a son. Aruni gave this beautiful son to Ahalya, sage Gautama’s wife. He then took his normal male form and resumed his duties as Surya’s charioteer, since Silavati’s penance was over. When he narrarated this story to Surya deva, Surya deva wished to see Aruna’s feminine form. Aruna agreed to Surya’s wishes. When Aruna turned into his feminine form, Surya deva was attracted and their union resulted in the birth of another beautiful son, which Aruna again gave to Ahalya. Aruna took his normal form and resumed his duties as a charioteer. Ahalya really loved the two children, but Gautama rishi did not like the fact that he had a son of Surya and Indra living in his abode. He turned both of them into monkeys. When Indra came to know about this he took both of the children to Indraloka (Swarga). There he named his son Vali (Bali) and Surya’s son Sugreeva. The king of Kishkinda had not had a son for many years. He requested Indra to give him Sugreeva and Vali. Indra happily accepted this. It was these two brothers who were two of the major characters in the Ramayana.

Chandra : The Moon God Chandra is the god of the Moon. He is a lunar deity. He is also called Soma. Chandra is one of the Navagrahas. He presides over Monday. He is also a fertility god. He is the son of Rishi Atri. Other names for Chandra are Rajanipati, Indu and Kshuparaka. Family Father: Atri Mother: Ansuya Brothers: Durvasa, Dattatreya Wives: Krttika, Rohini, Mrigashirsha, Ardra, Punarvasu, Purbabhadrapada, Pushya, Aslesha, Magha, Svati, Chitra, Purvaphalguni, Hasta, Radha, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshta, Mula, Purbashadha, Uttarashara, Sravana, Uttaraphalguni, Satabhisha, Uttarabhadrapada, Revati, Ashwini, Bharani Sons: Budha, Varchas, others Daughters: Bhadra, others Birth Ansuya’s fame and glory had spread all over the world. The devas were afraid that she might snatch their celestial treasures from them. They told the Trideva about this. The Trideva explained the greatness of Ansuya to them. But they agreed to ruin her chastity. The Trideva took the form of beggars and came to Atri and Ansuya’s hut to beg for alms. At that time, Atri had gone to offer his daily ablutions at the river. She welcomed them and washed their feet. Ansuya was waiting for Atri took come back so they could give food to the three beggars. But the beggars said that they couldn’t wait for the return of Atri. They demanded that the food be served right now. But they made an unusual request that she serve the food to them disrobed. Ansuya was really confident that the spiritual strength of her husband would save her, so she did so. When she entered the room, the three beggars had turned into babies. When Atri Rishi came in, he saw Ansuya with three babies. Ansuya offered the three babies at Atri’s feet. Atri realized that they were none other than the Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The Trideva assumed their real forms and Atri greeted them with folded hands. The Trideva requested Ansuya to ask for a boon. She asked that Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva actually become their children. They granted the boon and vanished. After some time, three sons were born to Atri and Ansuya: Dattatreya, Chandra, and Durvasa. Dattatreya was Vishnu, Chandra was Brahma, and Durvasa was Shiva. Leaving Home After some time, Durvasa said, “I wish to leave and go on a pilgrimage. Then I want to do severe penance.” Chandra then said, “I am going to become part of the Navagrahas. I will reside on the Moon and be the god of the Moon. Thus, you will be able to see me every night. Don’t worry, Dattatreya will remain here and combine himself with the qualities of all three of us.” After taking the permission of their parents, Durvasa left for a long pilgrimage and Chandra left for the Moon. Dattatreya remained with Ansuya and Atri in their hermitage. Tarakaamayam Chandra once performed the Rajasuya yagna. After performing this great yagna, he started becoming arrogant. He decided to abduct Tara, the wife of Brihaspati (preceptor of the devas). After abducting her, Chandra forced Tara to marry him. Brihaspati was enraged and decided to attack Chandra. Shukracharya, the preceptor of the Asuras, sided with Chandra. This was because Shukracharya was an enemy of Brihaspati. When their preceptor joined Chandra, all the Asuras followed. All the devas and Shiva came to help Brihaspati. A fearsome war ensued between the two sides. Seeing the war, Brahma came to the location and told the two sides to stop fighting. He ordered Chandra to return Tara to Brihaspati. Chandra had to give up Tara. Brihaspati soon realized that Tara was pregnant. Soon, the child was born and both Chandra and Brihaspati were captivated by his beauty. Both Chandra and Brihaspati claimed the boy as their child. Tara refused to give an answer as to whose son it is. The son became mad and threatened that he would curse Tara if she doesn’t reveal who his father is. Tara finally said that he was Chandra’s son. Chandra was delighted and the child was named Budha. Chandra and Ganesha One day, a devotee of Shiva came to Ganesha with sweets. Ganesha loved sweets. He stayed with the devotee the entire day. At night, he set off to go back to Kailash. He had all the remaining sweets in his hand. He was riding on his mouse Mushaka. Mushaka was unable to bear the weight of Ganesha and stumbled. Ganesha fell of Mushaka and the sweets scattered. Ganesha was embarrassed. Chandra had seen this happen. This was the time during which the moon was full throughout the month. There was no waxing and waning period. He started laughing. Ganesha glared angrily at the Moon. He shouted, “Chandra! You laughed at me when I fell. You think you are so handsome. I curse you that you will not come out during the night ever again!” Chandra was shocked. He immediately cried out, “Lord Ganesha! Please forgive me! I was too proud of myself.” Ganesha realized that Chandra’s pride had been broken. But he knew he couldn’t take back the curse. He said, “I can’t take the curse but I can reduce it. You will slowly decrease in size for about 15 days at the end, of which there will be no moon. After that, for another 15 days, the moon will increase in size till the full moon day, during which the moon will be the largest. This cycle will keep repeating.” “Thank you!” Chandra replied gratefully. Ganesha then said, “You laughed at me on Chaturti. Because of this, whoever sees you on this day will have some problems. Marriage Chandra soon married 27 of Daksha‘s daughters. Chandra loved all of his wives, but he especially loved Rohini. When the other 26 wives realized this, they became agitated and went to Daksha. They told him about how Chandra favored Rohini. Daksha also didn’t like this. He went to Chandra and said, “Oh Chandra, how can you love one more than the rest. Please don’t do this.” But Chandra did not listen to Daksha. He was deeply in love with Rohini, so he ignored the rest. After requesting a couple more times, Daksha became distressed. He cursed Chandra,” You haven’t listened to me multiple times. Thus, I curse that a wasting disease will fall upon you!” When the devas and the rishis heard about this, they became agitated. They went up to Brahma and informed him about the situation. Brahma said, “Chandra has done many wicked things. He kidnapped Brihaspati’s wife and at one point, allied himself with the Asuras. But if Chandra wants to be cured, then he must go to the auspicious place of Prabhasa and please Shiva.” On hearing the words of Brahma, the devas came to the place where Chandra and Daksha were present. They consoled Daksha and took Chandra to Prabhasa. For the next six months, Chandra performed penance using the Mrutyunjaya mantra to please Lord Shiva. Finally, Shiva presented himself in front of Chandra. “Please make it so that my body doesn’t decay.” Shiva granted him the boon and then vanished. All of the devas and rishis rejoiced. 108 Names Of Lord Chandra 1 Om Shrimate Namah। 2 Om Shashadharaya Namah। 3 Om Chandraya Namah। 4 Om Taradhishaya Namah। 5 Om Nishakaraya Namah। 6 Om Sudhanidhaye Namah। 7 Om Sadaradhyaya Namah। 8 Om Satpataye Namah। 9 Om Sadhupujitaya Namah। 10 Om Jitendriyaya Namah। 11 Om Jayodyogaya Namah। 12 Om Jyotishchakrapravartakaya Namah। 13 Om Vikartananujaya Namah। 14 Om Viraya Namah। 15 Om Vishveshaya Namah। 16 Om Vidusham Pataye Namah। 17 Om Doshakaraya Namah। 18 Om Dushtaduraya Namah। 19 Om Pushtimate Namah। 20 Om Shishtapalakaya Namah। 21 Om Ashtamurtipriyaya Namah। 22 Om Anantaya Namah। 23 Om Kashtadarukutharakaya Namah। 24 Om Svaprakashaya Namah। 25 Om Prakashatmane Namah। 26 Om Dyucharaya Namah। 27 Om Devabhojanaya Namah। 28 Om Kaladhraya Namah। 29 Om Kalahetave Namah। 30 Om Kamakrite Namah। 31 Om Kamadayakaya Namah। 32 Om Mrityusamharakaya Namah। 33 Om Amartyaya Namah। 34 Om Nityanushthanadaya Namah। 35 Om Kshapakaraya Namah। 36 Om Kshinapapaya Namah। 37 Om Kshayavriddhisamanvitaya Namah। 38 Om Jaivatrikaya Namah। 39 Om Shuchaye Namah। 40 Om Shubhraya Namah। 41 Om Jayine Namah। 42 Om Jayaphalapradaya Namah। 43 Om Sudhamayaya Namah। 44 Om Surasvamine Namah। 45 Om Bhaktanamishtadayakaya Namah। 46 Om Bhuktidaya Namah। 47 Om Muktidaya Namah। 48 Om Bhadraya Namah। 49 Om Bhaktadaridryabhanjanaya Namah। 50 Om Samaganapriyaya Namah। 51 Om Sarvarakshakaya Namah। 52 Om Sagarodbhavaya Namah। 53 Om Bhayantakrite Namah। 54 Om Bhaktigamyaya Namah। 55 Om Bhavabandhavimochakaya Namah। 56 Om Jagatprakashakiranaya Namah। 57 Om Jagadanandakaranaya Namah। 58 Om Nissapatnaya Namah। 59 Om Niraharaya Namah। 60 Om Nirvikaraya Namah। 61 Om Niramayaya Namah। 62 Om Bhuchchhayachchhaditaya Namah। 63 Om Bhavyaya Namah। 64 Om Bhuvanapratipalakaya Namah। 65 Om Sakalartiharaya Namah। 66 Om Saumyajanakaya Namah। 67 Om Sadhuvanditaya Namah। 68 Om Sarvagamagyaya Namah। 69 Om Sarvagyaya Namah। 70 Om Sankadimunistutaya Namah। 71 Om Sitachchhatradhvajopetaya Namah। 72 Om Sitangaya Namah। 73 Om Sitabhushanaya Namah। 74 Om Shvetamalyambaradharaya Namah। 75 Om Shvetagandhanulepanaya Namah। 76 Om Dashashvarathasamrudhaya Namah। 77 Om Dandapanaye Namah। 78 Om Dhanurdharaya Namah। 79 Om Kundapushpojjvalakaraya Namah। 80 Om Nayanabjasamudbhavaya Namah। 81 Om Atreyagotrajaya Namah। 82 Om Atyantavinayaya Namah। 83 Om Priyadayakaya Namah। 84 Om Karunarasasampurnaya Namah। 85 Om Karkataprabhave Namah। 86 Om Avyayaya Namah। 87 Om Chaturasrasanarudhaya Namah। 88 Om Chaturaya Namah। 89 Om Divyavahanaya Namah। 90 Om Vivasvanmandalagyeyavasaya Namah। 91 Om Vasusamriddhidaya Namah। 92 Om Maheshvarapriyaya Namah। 93 Om Dantaya Namah। 94 Om Merugotrapradakshinaya Namah। 95 Om Grahamandalamadhyasthaya Namah। 96 Om Grasitarkaya Namah। 97 Om Grahadhipaya Namah। 98 Om Dvijarajaya Namah। 99 Om Dyutilakaya Namah। 100 Om Dvibhujaya Namah। 101 Om Dvijapujitaya Namah। 102 Om Audumbaranagavasaya Namah। 103 Om Udaraya Namah। 104 Om Rohinipataye Namah। 105 Om Nityodayaya Namah। 106 Om Munistutyaya Namah। 107 Om Nityanandaphalapradaya Namah। 108 Om Sakalahladanakaraya Namah।

Hindu God Shani Bhagwan (Shani Dev): History and Significance Shani Bhagwan (also known as Sani, Shani Dev, Sani Maharaj, and Chayyaputra) is one of the most popular deities in the traditional religion of Hinduism. Shani is the harbinger of bad luck and retribution, and practicing Hindus pray to Shani to ward off evil and remove personal obstacles. The name Shani comes from the root Sanaischara, meaning slow mover (in Sanskrit, "Shani" means "the planet Saturn" and "chara" means "movement"); and Shanivara is the Hindu name for Saturday, which is dedicated to Shani Baghwan. Key Facts: Hindu God Shani Bhagwan (Shani Dev) Known for: Hindu god of justice, and one of the most popular deities in the Hindu pantheon Also Known As: Sani, Shani Dev, Sani Maharaj, Saura, Kruradris, Kruralochana, Mandu, Pangu, Septarchi, Asita, and Chayyaputra Parents: Surya (the sun god) and his servant and surrogate wife Chaya ("Shadow") Key Powers: Ward off evil, remove personal obstacles, a harbinger of bad luck and retribution, deliver justice for evil or good karmic debt Significant epithets for Shani include Saura (son of the sun god), Kruradris or Kruralochana (the cruel-eyed), Mandu (dull and slow), Pangu (disabled), Septarchi (seven-eyed), and Asita (dark). Shani in Images: In Hindu iconography, Shani is portrayed as a black figure riding in a chariot that moves slowly through the heavens. He carries various weapons, such as a sword, a bow and two arrows, an ax, and/or a trident, and he is sometimes mounted on a vulture or crow. Often wearing dark blue or black clothing, he carries a blue flower and sapphire. Shani is sometimes shown as lame or with a limp, a result of fighting with his brother Yama as a child. In Vedic astrology terminology, Shani's nature is Vata, or airy; his gem is a blue sapphire and any black stones, and his metal is lead. His direction is west, and Saturday is his day. Shani is said to be an incarnation of Vishnu, who gave him the task of granting to Hindus the fruits of their karmic nature. Origins of Shani: Shani is the son of Surya, the Hindu sun god, and Chaya ("Shade"), a servant of Surya who acted as surrogate mother for Surya's wife Swarna. While Shani was in Chaya's womb, she fasted and sat under the hot sun to impress Shiva, who intervened and nurtured Shani. As a result, Shani turned black in the womb, which is said to have enraged his father, Surya. When Shani opened his eyes as a baby for the very first time, the sun went into an eclipse: that is Shani turning his father (temporarily) black in a rage of his own. The elder brother of the Hindu god of death, Yama, Shani delivers justice while a person is alive and Yama serves justice after a person's death. Among Shani's other relatives are his sisters—the goddess Kali, destroyer of evil forces, and the goddess of the hunt Putri Bhadra. Shiva, married to Kali, is both his brother-in-law and his guru. Lord of Bad Luck While often considered cruel and easily enraged, Shani Baghwan is both the greatest troublemaker and the greatest well-wisher, a strict but beneficent god. He is the god of justice who oversees the "dungeons of the human heart and the dangers that lurk there." Shani Baghwan is said to be very harmful to those who betray, backstab, and seek unjust revenge, as well as those who are vain and arrogant. He makes people suffer for their sins, so as to purify and cleanse them of the negative influences of evil they have acquired. In Hindu (also known as Vedic) astrology, the planetary position at the time of one's birth determines his or her future; anyone born under Shani's planet Saturn is believed to be at risk for accidents, sudden failures, and money and health problems. Shani asks that Hindus live in the moment, and predicts success only through discipline, hard work, and struggle. A worshipper who practices good karma can overcome the difficulties of an ill-chosen birth. Shani and Saturn: In Vedic astrology, Shani is one of the nine planetary deities called the Navagraha. Each of the deities (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn) highlights a different face of destiny: Shani's destiny is karmic, to make individuals pay for or benefit from the evil or good they do during their lifetime. Astrologically, the planet Saturn is the slowest of the planets, remaining in a given Zodiac sign for about two and a half years. Saturn's most powerful place in the Zodiac is in the seventh house; he is beneficial to Taurus and Libra ascendants. Saade Sati The propitiation of Shani is required of every single person, not just those born under Saturn. The Saade Sati (also spelled Sadesati) is a seven-and-a-half-year period that occurs when Saturn is in the astrological house of one's birth, which happens about once every 27 to 29 years. According to Hindu astrology, an individual is most in danger of bad luck when Saturn is in his or her house, and in the signs before and afterward. So once every 27 to 29 years, a believer can expect a period of bad luck lasting 7.5 years (3 times 2.5 years). Shani Mantra: The Shani Mantra is used by Hindu traditional practitioners during the 7.5-year Saade Sati period, to escape the adverse effects of having Saturn in (or near) one's astrological house. There are several Shani Mantras, but the classic one consists of chanting five epithets of Shani Bhagwan and then bowing to him. Nilanjana Samabhasam: In English, "The one who is resplendent or glowing like a blue mountain" Ravi Putram: "The son of the sun god Surya" (called here Ravi) Yamagrajam: "The elder brother of Yama, god of death" Chaya Martanda Sambhutam: "He who is born to Chaya and the sun god Surya" (here called Martanda) Tam Namami Shanescharam: "I bow down to the slow-moving one." The chant is to be performed in a quiet place while contemplating the images of Shani Baghwan and perhaps Hanuman, and for the best effect should be intoned 23,000 times over the 7.5-year period of Saade Sati, or an average of eight or more times a day. It is most effective if one can chant 108 times at once. Shani Temples To propitiate Shani properly, one may also wear black or dark blue on Saturdays; abstain from alcohol and meat; light lamps with sesame or mustard oil; worship Lord Hanuman; and/or visit one of his temples. Most Hindu temples have a little shrine set apart for the ‘Navagraha,’ or the nine planets, where Shani is placed. Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu is the oldest Navagraha temple and has the most benign Shani figure. There are a number of famous stand-alone temples and shrines of Shani Baghwan in India, located at different regions such as the Shani Shingnapur in Maharashtra, the Tirunallar Saniswaran Temple in Pondicherry, and the Mandapalli Mandeswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The Yerdanur Shani Temple in Medak district has a 20-foot-tall statue of Lord Shani; the Bannanje Shri Shani Kshetra in Udupi has a 23-foot-tall statue of Shani, and the Shani Dham Temple of Delhi has the world’s tallest statue of Shani, carved out of native rock. Lord Hanuman and Shani Dev : Lesser Known Stories And Facts One is a student, the other is the son of Lord Surya. One is the troubleshooter, the other is the merciless Lord known for casting an evil eye. One is born from fire, and the other is born from air – Despite being drastically opposite, the Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman and Shani Dev are still connected very well to each other. Here we share their love-hate relationship. Lord Hanuman Breaks Shani Dev’s Proud on Lord Surya’s Insistence After completing his education, Lord Hanuman wants to repay his guru Lord Surya. Though Surya tells Hanuman to go back without repaying him anything, Hanuman insists him to ask for his guru dakshina. This is the time when Lord Surya talks about his son Shani who never listens to him and creates problem for everyone. He asks Hanuman if he can make him mend his ways. Hanuman then enters Shani Lok and request Shani to return to his father. Shani who is too haughty cannot believe the fact that Hanuman could enter his Shani Lok effortlessly. So, he decides to teach Hanuman a lesson. He then climbs on Lord Hanuman’ shoulder and implies all his energy to put an influence on him. However, much to his surprise, it doesn’t affect Lord Hauman in any way. In fact, Lord Hanuman increases his size so much that poor Shani is caught between the ceiling of the room and Hanuman’s shoulder. Now that the pain becomes unbearable, Shani requests Hanuman to leave him with a promise that he would never trouble anybody who is a Hanuman devotee, moderating all his effects in front of a Hanuman devotee. Hearing this, Hanuman released Shani Dev from his catch. Next, Shani dev asks Lord Hanuman for til and tail so that he could apply and get away from the pain. Ever since then it is a normal practice to offer oil and black til in the name of Shani Devta. It not only soothes his pain but also makes him beneficent towards Ram and Hanuman devotees. This is the reason why every Saturday you see a huge line in every Hanuman temple to visit both Hanuman and Shani devta. People who give an offering of til and tail (oil) to Shani devta on this day are not affected by Shani’s dosh. Lord Hanuman Rescued Shani Dev from the Clutches of Ravan The boon of Lord Shiva and Brahma made Ravana invincible. He wanted a similar fate for his son Meghnath, and so when he was about to be born, Ravana kidnapped all the 9 planets and placed them in the 11th position so that his newborn too could be immortal and invincible. This made him lock up all the planets including the Saturn,that is Shani Dev in a place where it would be very difficult for them to get out. However, Lord Hanuman reached the place when he was searching for Maata Sita in Lanka after she was kidnapped by Ravana. It was then Lord Hanuman rescued Shani Dev from Ravana. As a thank you gesture, Shani Dev gave a boon to Lord Hanuman that the effect of Shani’s inauspiciousness will never affect him in any way. In return, Lord Hanuman mentioned that none of his devotees should be affected as well. Shani dev obliged. This is the reason why people worship Shani Dev on Saturday and why Shani do not cause adversities to Hanuman devotees. Relation Of Hanuman and Shani : The Good Vs Bad, The Humble Vs Arrogant and the Selfless Vs The Selfish Lord Hanuman’s and Shani devta’s story has a spiritual significance. Every time the Shani who is full of pride and ego meets a humble Hanuman, all the self-centered action is countered by the self-less Hanuman. Likewise, if you counter all your ego, pride and selfless attitude and become as good, humble and helping like Lord Hanuman especially if you are in the Saadhe Saati phase, you are ought to come out of the web successfully. Remember, Shani troubled Hanuman, not once but several times. However, Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman could win each time due to his modesty and humbleness. Shanidev Was Cursed by His Own Wife The Shani dosh which we all are scared of, is actually a curse bombarded on Shani dev by his own wife. It was she who had cursed the Lord that whoever you’ll look at, we’ll get destroyed. Although she repented later, she couldn’t take the curse back. He only punishes people for their mistakes and does not forgive easily. People worship him in various ways to get his blessings and save themselves from his anger at their unintended mistakes. Life becomes a complete blessing when Shani Dev decides to bless his devotees. Wives Of Shani Dev: One of the ways of pleasing Shani Dev is by worshipping his wives. It is said that he had eight wives named Dhwajini, Dhamini, Kankali, Kalahpriya, Kantaki, Turangi, Mahishi and Aja. One should chant the names of his wives in order to please Shani Dev. It is highly beneficial if their names are chanted on a Saturday. The belief that Shani Dev's sight is considered to be malicious came from the story associated with an incident with his wife Dhamini. Shani Dev, A Devotee Of Lord Krishna Shani Dev is the son of Surya Dev and his wife Chhaya. He is dark in complexion and rides a chariot made of iron and a vulture is his mount. Shani Dev was a staunch devotee of Lord Krishna since his childhood days. He often used to sit for long hours meditating on Lord Krishna. His love for Krishna remained the same when he grew up. Upon being an adult, he was married to the daughter of Chitrarath. His wife, named Dhamini was a woman with divine powers. Besides being beautiful, she was also very intelligent. Wife Dhamini's Desire To Have A Baby Boy Once while pondering over several thoughts, a desire caught Dhamini's heart that she should be the mother of a boy child. With this desire in her heart, she approached Shani Dev, who was meditating on Lord Krishna at that time and did not want to be disturbed. She tried waking him up from meditation, but all her efforts went futile. Dhamini Curses Shani Dev Annoyed by Shani Dev' behaviour, she cursed him that since he paid no heed and did not look at her when she wanted to speak to him, whoever he looks at henceforth, shall get destroyed. Since he ignored her frequent requests to listen to her, his sight would always bring negative effects for people. A person would have to face problems if Shani Dev ever looked at them. Probably that is why it is said that Shani Dev is not bad, but his sight on a person might prove malicious. Shani Dev's Wife Regretted As Shani Dev opened his eyes, after completing a round of meditation, he saw that his wife was annoyed and tried to apologise to her. Though she could understand it and regretted for having given the curse, she possessed no such powers which could nullify the effects of the curse. All she could do was nothing but console Shani Dev. However, to make sure that his devotees are saved, he decided never to look at them and keep his head down.

Vishnu

Sudarshan Chakra is the main weapon of Lord Vishnu, through this chakra God has destroyed many evils. The special thing about this cycle is that after running it comes back to its target. This cycle never gets destroyed. This weapon has immense energy that cannot be described. There are many stories about the origin of this divine chakra, some believe that Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, Jupiter have collected their energy and created it It is also believed that this chakra is Lord Vishnu's Lord Shiva's chakra. Received by worshiping. People also say that in the Mahabharata period, Agnidev gave this chakra to Shri Krishna which killed many. Let's know some such interesting things related to Sudarshan Chakra -

  1. This chakra whose name is Sudarshan, is made of two words, ' Su ' means auspicious and ' Darshan '. Chakra is composed of the word ' charuhu ' and ' karuhu ', which means speed (always going). This chakra is always going on, you must have seen it in many serials.
  2. It was made from silver shalakas. The upper and lower surfaces had iron colonies. It is said that it used to have a very toxic variety of poison. .....
  3. Sudarshan Chakra does not go to the enemy, it is sent by the will power of the one who strikes. Whoever had this chakra had to wish and this cycle came back after fulfilling his desire. This cycle has the ability to eliminate anything.
  4. A story related to this is also that it was created by Vishwakarma. Vishwakarma married his daughter Sanjana to Surya Dev but Sanjana could not go near him due to the light and heat of Surya Dev. When Vishwakarma came to know this, he reduced the sun's shine a bit and built the Trishul, Pushpak Viman and Sudarshan Chakra with the remaining energy of the sun.
  5. It is believed that Krishna ji raised Govardhan Parvat with the help of Sudarshan Chakra. Sri Krishna used Sudarshan Chakra in the war of Mahabharata to see sunset, with the help of which Jayadrath was killed by Arjuna. .....
  6. This chakra has spread 51 parts of the body of Goddess Sati in every place in India and these places are known as Shakti-Peeth This happened when Devi Sati was taking place in her father's house. I burned myself in fire then Lord Shiva came in mourning and took the lifeless body of Sati.
  7. Sudarshan Chakra has a lot of recognition in Sanatan Hindu religion. Just like time, sun and life never stops, no one can end it. This is the symbol of supreme truth. According to Shiva Purana, Sakshat Adi Shakti resides in Sudarshan Chakra.
  8. There are many types of chakras in our body which have the ability to generate extreme energy and spiritual power. There are 6 chakras other than Sahasrar Chakra in Yoga Upanishad - Muldhara, Swadhishthan, Manipur, Anahat, Visuddha and Ajana
  9. The 4 Gods of the Ratnasinhasan of the Shrimandir are called Chaturdhamurthi in which Sudarshan Chakra is also considered as Dev. Sudarshan Chakra is depicted here as a pole. They are called the God of energy and power.
  10. In Tamil, Sudarshan Chakra is also known as Chakrath Azwar. The power of Thailand is also named after the same cycle called Chakri Dynasty!

Abhimanyu

Abhimanyu Abhimanyu was a major character in the Mahabharata. He was the son of Arjuna and Subhadra, Krishna’s sister. He was really powerful and was killed on the thirteenth day of the Kurukshetra war by Durjaya, Dushasana’s son. Family Father: Arjuna Mother: Subhadra Brother: Ashvatatha Wives: Uttaraa, Vatsala Son: Parikshita Birth During Arjuna’s pilgrimage, he came to Dwarka. There he saw Subhadra, the sister of Krishna and Balarama, and he immediately fell in love with her. Arjuna abducted Subhadra and after Balarama gave his permission, Subhadra was married to Arjuna. Arjuna then brought Krishna and Subhadra to Indraprastha as his pilgrimage had ended. At Indraprastha, that same year, Arjuna and Subhadra had sexual intercourse and Subhadra became pregnant with a son. While Subhadra was pregnant, Arjuna was once telling Subhadra how to break a chakravyuha. In Subhadra’s womb, the child listened to how to break the chakravyuha. By the time Arjuna got to how to escape a chakravyuha, Subhadra was asleep, so the child couldn’t hear that part. Soon, a son was born to Subhadra and Arjuna. He was named Saubhadra, meaning the son of Subhadra. Childhood and Early Training Saubhadra was brought up in Indraprastha. From his childhood, Saubhadra became a favorite of Krishna. Saubhadra followed Krishna around everywhere. Krishna brought Saubhadra up in his palace in Indraprastha. When Saubhadra became a bit older, Saubhadra learnt the Vedas with his older brothers Prativindhya, Satanika, and Sootasoma. After that, Arjuna started teaching Saubhadra how to use weapons. In his combat training, Saubhadra was really fierce so he was nicknamed Abhimanyu (Abhi means quick and Manyu means anger). Arjuna taught Abhimanyu sword-fighting and Dhanurveda (archery). Abhimanyu became an expert at Dhanurveda. Arjuna also taught him the science of weapons and Saushthava (a division of archery that focuses on and develops self-confidence and ability to use the body of the archer to particular clever positions), along with Prayoga (only using the middle and forefinger to shoot) and other archery skills. On reaching age, Abhimanyu went and defeated many kings who opposed Yudhistira or were guilty of crimes. Many of the enemies he defeated compared him to Krishna, saying they were both brave, skillful, and even their physical appearance and height were similar. Further Training during the Pandava Exile Soon, the Pandavas were defeated in a gambling game against the Kauravas. They were forced to go on a 13 year exile, with the last year being an incognito year. During that time, Krishna came from Dwarka and took Subhadra and Abhimanyu back to Dwarka. During the majority of the Pandavas’ exile, Abhimanyu lived and trained in Dwarka. He was trained by Pradyumna, a son of Krishna, on warfare skills and knowledge. Marriage After the Pandavas completed their exile successfully, the Kauravas still refused to give the Pandavas their kingdom back. Hence, war was declared. As the Pandavas and their allies prepared for war in Matsya, Virata came up to Arjuna and said, “Brave Arjuna, please accept my daughter Uttaraa’s hand in marriage.” “I was her teacher. That makes me her father,” Arjuna said. “Instead of me marrying her, let my son Abhimanyu marry her. He is just as brave and valiant as I am!” King Virata rejoiced. He couldn’t believe that the son of the great Arjuna was marrying his daughter. It was declared the Abhimanyu would marry Uttaraa. The wedding was celebrated grandly with splendor. Balarama, Krishna, the Pandavas, Subhadra and Draupadi, the Upapandavas, and many others came to the wedding. Kurukshetra War After the marriage festivities were over, the Pandavas and all their allies went back to war preparations. Abhimanyu brought half an akshauni to the Pandava cause. In the war, Abhimanyu killed: Warrior Killed: Day Killed: Kingdom: Satyasharwa 13th Anga Dhanusha 13th Anga Prabahu 13th Anga Bhoja 13th Bhoja Territories Vrihadvala 13th South-Central Kosala Meghavegha 13th South-Central Kosala Vasatiya 13th Vasati Vasatika 13th Vasati Son of Ashmaka King 13th Ashmaka Chandraketu 13th Ujjayani Rukmaratha 13th Madra Shalya’s Brother 13th Madra Kalikeya 13th Gandhara Shatrunjaya 13th Sindhu Jayatsena 13th Maghada Maghadaraja 4th Maghada Dirghalochana 13th Rakshasa Territories Ashvaketu 13th Maaghada Suryabhasa 13th Pratardhana 13th Bahlika Lakshmana Kumara 13th Kuru East Vikarna || 6th Kuru East After the Pandava victory on the 12th day of war, Duryodhana insulted Dronacharya in front of all the major Kaurava officers for letting him lose. Drona then took a vow that tomorrow, he would kill a major Pandava Maharathi. “Tomorrow, I will form the Chakravyuha, the deadliest war formation there is. Only Arjuna knows how to break through the Chakravyuha. That is why, Susharma and his akshauni of Sampshapataka mercenaries will keep Arjuna occupied far away from the battlefield,” Drona outlined the plan to the Kaurava officers. On the 13th day of war, Dronacharya formed a chakravyuha. The Pandava soldiers attacked the Chakravyuha and were completely routed. Yudhistira was becoming anxious. He knew that of the Pandava ranks, only Arjuna and Abhimanyu knew how to break the chakravyuha. But Arjuna was far away from the battlefield, fighting Susharma and his forces. Reluctantly, Yudhistira went up to Abhimanyu for help. Varchas Varchas is the son of Chandra (Soma) deva. During the Mahabharata, he incarnated on Earth as Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna. Family Father: Chandra (Soma) Mother: One of Chandra’s 27 wives Incarnation of Abhimanyu In the Dwapara Yuga, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Krishna on Earth to destroy the evil. All the devas incarnated as well to help Krishna. But Chandra did not help the cause in any way. The devas approached him and told him to contribute. But Chandra kept silent. “You should send down your powerful son Varchas,” the Devas advised. “Varchas is more dear to me than my life,” Chandra deva replied, “I cannot part with him.” But the devas insisted and finally persuaded Chandra. But then Chandra said, “I will let my son incarnate on Earth only if these conditions are met. First, he will have to live for a short time because I want my son back with me soon. Second, I want him to be very powerful when he incarnates on Earth. I want him to destroy a huge part of the enemy army in one day. I want him to fight bravely even when Nara (Arjuna) and Narayana (Krishna) are not there. And lastly, I want it so that the Kuru clan of warriors continues only through my son. The devas said, “So be it.” Eventually, Varchas was born on this Earth as Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna and Subhadra. He died on the thirteenth day of the Kurukshetra war. On that day, even though he was trapped alone in a Chakravyuha without Krishna and Arjuna, he decimated a huge part of the Kaurava army. Parikshit, the son of Abhimanyu, was the only successor of the Kuru family after the war.

Arjun

Arjuna: The Master Archer Arjuna was the third Pandava. He was known as the best archer of his time. He was one of the major characters in the Mahabharata. Family Father: Pandu Godly Father: Indra Mother: Kunti Brothers: Yudhistira, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva Wives: Draupadi (Panchali), Subhadra, Ulupi, Chitrangada Sons: Srutakarma, Abhimanyu, Iravan, Babruvahana Grandson: Parikshita Birth Once, King Pandu went hunting. He saw two dear and killed them with his arrows. As soon as he killed them, they turned into a rishi and his wife. Pandu was shocked. He realized that the two dear had been Kindama rishi and his wife in the form of dear. Kindama rishi was really mad and cursed Pandu that whenever he engages in intercourse with any women, he will die. A moment after, Kindama and his wife died. Pandu was really upset since he had killed a Brahmin who was a rishi. He decided to leave his post as king of Kuru kingdom. He and his two wives named Kunti and Madri left for the jungle. Pandu’s older blind brother, Dhitrastra was then coronated as king of Kuru. Dhitrastra them married Gandhari, the princess of Gandhara. Due to his curse, Pandu could not have children. When she was small, Kunti was given a boon that she could have any children with any deva. Kunti used her boon. She had three children. Her first and oldest child was Yudhistira from Yama. Her second child was Bhima from Vayu. Pandu now wanted a son who would be invincible. Pandu realized that Indra was the strongest deva. Pandu and Kunti performed austerities to Indra for one year. Kunti then said the mantra and invoked Indra deva. When the child was born, divine said voices said the boy would be named Arjuna and would have prowess equal to Shiva, would be one of the greatest warriors of all time, would obtain the Pashupashastra, would visit Indra’s swarga, would destroy the Nivatkavachas, would defeat many kings, and would perform the Ashwamedha yagna. Suddenly, devas started showering flowers on Arjuna. Apsaras started dancing and rishis came to visit Arjuna. Kunti also taught the boon to Madri. Madri received Nakula and Sahadeva, sons of the Ashwini Kumaras. These five were called the five Pandavas. Childhood Arjuna used to love archery. Pandu made a bow for him from wood. In the forest, he always liked to shoot faraway targets that he put on trees. Soon he became an expert. He could hit tiny targets accurately and easily. Once, Pandu engaged in intercourse with Madri, forgetting about his curse. Immediately, Pandu died. Madri was so heartbroken that she also killed herself. Kunti and the five Pandavas were really depressed. A funeral was performed for Madri and Pandu. Kunti and the 5 Pandavas were brought to Hastinapura, the capital of the Kuru kingdom, by Vidura and Bhishma. The Pandavas were given a horrible greeting by the 100 Kauravas, the sons of Dhitrastra and Gandhari. Shakuni, Gandhari’s brother, had poisoned their mind and turned them against the Pandavas. Slowly an enmity developed between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Whenever the Pandavas and Kauravas played games together, the superior capabilities of the Pandavas would always show. The Kauravas became frustrated with the Pandavas, especially Bhima. They made many schemes to end the lives of Bhima. But ultimately, all of these ploys were unsuccessful. Education Dhitrastra realized that the Pandavas and Kauravas were wasting their time with useless activities. He appointed Kripacharya, the royal preceptor, as the teacher of the princes. He taught the princes how to use weapons. After the princes completed their short education with Kripacharya, Dhitrastra wanted to give the princes a higher education. He started searching for a teacher who was a master at weaponry. Meanwhile, Dronacharya, the son of Bharadwaja, and his family had recently moved to Hastinapura. They stayed in the house of Kripa. Ashwastamma often helped Kripa give lessons about weaponry to the princes. Once, the Pandavas and Kauravas were playing ball outside the palace. The ball accidentally fell into a nearby well. Everybody tried to take it out but it was to deep. At that moment, Drona arrived at the scene. He said, “If you promise me dinner today, then I shall remove this ball from the well and this ring which I am going to drop.” Saying that, Drona dropped his ring into the well. He then threw a blade of grass at the ball and pierced it. He then pierced the blade of grass with another blade of grass and continued this until a chain was formed. Using the chain, he easily removed the ball. He then removed the ring by using an arrow. The Pandavas were astonished by this impossible feat. They quickly went and told Bhishma about what had happened. Bhishma instantly knew that his was none other than Dronacharya. Drona went to the palace and personally met Bhishma. He told Bhishma about all that had happened. Bhishma, who had been searching for a teacher for the princes, asked Dronacharya to become their teacher. Dronacharya readily agreed. Bhishma built a house for Drona to live in. The Pandavas and Kauravas were taken to this house and their education commenced. Teacher’s Favorite One day, Dronacharya called all the Pandavas and Kauravas and said, “I have a motive in my heart. Promise me that once you become skilled with weapons, you will accomplish this motive for me.” Silence. Utter Silence. Not one of the princes said a word. But then suddenly, Arjuna stepped up and vowed that he would accomplish this motive, no matter what it is. Dronacharya started shedding tears of happiness. Dronacharya then began the education of the princes. He imparted scriptural and combat knowledge to the princes. Other princes from across Bharat also joined the Pandavas and Kauravas as pupils of the legendary Drona. But from all of these princes, Arjuna was clearly the BEST at the use of weapons. Whenever Dronacharya would send his pupils to fetch water, he would give them a narrow-mouthed vessel. But he gave his son Ashwastamma a wide-mouthed vessel. Ashwastamma was thus able to fill his vessel faster and quickly return to his father. In these little intervals, Drona would teach his son about divine weapons of the gods. When Arjuna learned of this, he started quickly filling his vessel using the Varunastra weapon to summon water. He would return at the same time as Ashwastamma and receive the same lessons. Arjuna’s devotion to his guru and the science of arms quickly made him Drona’s favorite. Once, while Arjuna was eating dinner, a strong breeze blew out the lamps. But Arjuna kept eating in the darkness. At that moment, Arjuna realized that through habit, he could master archery in the darkness as well. Thus, Arjuna began practicing archery at midnight. When Drona heard the twang of the bow, he approached Arjuna and said: I give you a promise that you shall become and remain the greatest archer in the world! -Dronacharya Arjuna was overjoyed and resumed his practice with invigoration. Drona started teaching Arjuna how to fight on horseback, on an elephant, on a chariot, and on the ground. Arjuna was taught how to use a sword, spear, lance, mace, and the dart. Princes all around Bharat heard about Arjuna’s prowess. They flocked to Drona in the hundreds, eager to become like Arjuna. Ekalavya- The Master of Archery One day, the Pandavas and Kauravas went on a hunting excursion. A servant with a dog followed the princes. During the trip, the dog was seperated and wandered off alone into the woods. Suddenly, the dog encountered a dark-skinned adolescent with matted locks of hair. The dog started to loudly bark. The adolescent quickly sent seven arrows into the mouth of the dog, which stopped it from barking. The dog ran back to the hunting party. When the Pandavas saw what had been done to the dog, they were filled with wonder and awe. Who was this impeccable archer? How could he do this without killing the dog? The Pandavas started searching for the unknown archer. In time, the Pandavas came across an adolescent dexterously discharging arrows from his hunting bow. When the Pandavas asked him who he was, the man replied, “I am Ekalavya, the prince of the Nishadas. I am the son of King Hiranyadhanus. Know me as the pupil of Guru Dronacharya. When I approached Dronacharya as a student, he said that he only teaches royalty. Thus, I have made a clay idol of Drona and worship it as my Guru. I have practiced endlessly in front of this idol and mastered archery.” After a brief conversation, the Pandavas bid farewell and returned to Dronacharya’s residence. They excitedly told him about the mysterious archer and his feats. But while the rest of the Pandavas were excitedly describing the feat, Arjuna was in deep thought… After the other Pandavas left, Arjuna went up to Dronacharya and expressed his thoughts. “Earlier you had promised me that I would be your greatest pupil. Then why is this pupil, the son of the Nishada king, superior to me?” Arjuna questioned. Drona painfully reflected for a moment. Realizing what had to be done, Dronacharya, accompanied by Arjuna, went to meet Ekalavya. Drona said, “Oh Ekalavya, if you are really my true pupil, then you must give me gurudakshina (repaying one’s teacher after education).” Ekalavya responded, “Guruji, I am grateful to have the opportunity to give you something. Ask for anything, and I shall give it!” “Well then give me your right thumb,” Drona demanded. Drona knew that without his right thumb, Ekalavya would never be as good as before. Arjuna would be able to surpass him in archery skills. Without hesitation, Ekalavya cut off his right thumb. Drona and Arjuna, who’s jealousy was cured, departed. Ekalavya would continue shooting with his left hand, but he would never be as good as before. Eventually, he would die to Krishna during Rukmini’s marriage. Bird’s Eye The education of the princes continued and Arjuna became an astounding archer. One day, Drona gathered all the princes for a test. He placed an artificial bird on the branch of a nearby tree. First, he called Yudhistira to shoot the bird’s eye. Yudhistira drew his bowstring and when Drona asked what he saw, Yudhistira replied that he saw the bird, the tree, his brothers, and himself. Drona told Yudhistira to back off and not shoot. Drona called all the other pupils, one-by-one, but they all gave the same answer. Finally, Dronacharya smilingly called Arjuna. When Arjuna stood aiming with his bow bent, Drona asked what he saw. Arjuna replied, “I see the bird’s head and only the bird’s head!” Dronacharya was impressed and ordered him to shoot. Arjuna’s arrow pierced the bird’s eye and struck off the head of the bird. Drona was really happy and congratulated Arjuna. After that, Drona and all the princes went to the river to bathe. When Drona was in the river, a crocodile seized him by the thigh. Drona was capable of saving himself, but he asked his pupils to save him. Everyone stood dumbfounded and nobody took action. But Arjuna quickly took his bow and shot five arrows, subduing the crocodile. “Oh Arjuna, I am really impressed with your readiness,” Drona said. “Thus, I am going to give you the Brahmashira Astra. No other weapon is equal to this. It has the potential to destroy the Universe. But you must never use it against a human foe. If you do so, the entire universe will burn.” Arjuna was taught the incantation and received the weapon with his hands folded. The Tournament- The Son of the Sun In a short time, the education of the Pandava and Kaurava princes was complete. To display their skills to the Kuru elders, Dronacharya hosted a tournament. A grand stage and hall was constructed. The day of the demonstration arrived and the entire royal family and the citizens gathered in the arena. The princes entered one-by-one and each exhibited their skills. Bhima and Duryodhana fought each other with their maces, but when the fight became too aggressive, Drona sent Ashwastamma to separate them. Lastly, Arjuna entered the arena with his bow in hand. He entertained the audience through his exceptional archery skills. He released many divine astras, such as Vayavayastra, with creates fierce winds, and Parvatastra, with forms mountains. The audience loudly cheered and encouraged Arjuna. In the midst of the excitement, a youth entered the arena…. He was tall and handsome, his prowess comparable to that of a lion. He shone like the Sun. He was the Son of the Sun. He was Suryaputra Karna. With the permission of Drona, this youth replicated the feats of Arjuna. Everyone was confused as to who he was and who he learned from. Seeing this youth stand up to Arjuna, Duryodhana was overjoyed and accepted him as a friend. Karna, determined to show his prowess, challenged Arjuna to a duel. Upon seeing Karna and Arjuna confront each other, Kunti fainted. She couldn’t bare to see two of her sons fight each other. Yes, Karna was a son of Kunti. Before she married Pandu, Kunti had used to her boon to beget a son from Surya deva. But because she was afraid that she would be scorned in society, she left the infant adrift in the river. Soon, Adhiratha, the charioteer of Dhitrastra, would find the baby and adopt it. Karna grew up with Adhiratha and his wife Radha, unaware of his true lineage. When he grew up, Karna wanted to master archery, so he approached Dronacharya. But Drona denied him, saying that he only taught royal princes, not the low-caste. Karna was enraged and he approached Parshuram in the guise of a Brahmin. With Parshuram as his guru, Karna mastered archery. But one day, Parshuram found out that Karna wasn’t actually a Brahmin. Parshuram cursed him that he would forget how to invoke the Brahmastra when he most needed it. Remember this curse, because it will be very important in the future. Before they started fighting, Kripa intervened and said, “Arjuna is a prince, so by the rules of duels, Arjuna must fight with a man of glorious lineage. You must tell us your lineage and your royal line.” Hearing Kripa’s words, Karna became silent. But at that moment, Duryodhana declared, “Many years ago, Bhishma Pitamah conquered the eastern kingdom of Anga. I officially crown Karna the King of Angadesha!” Karna’s coronation ceremony was quickly performed on the spot. At that moment, Adhiratha, Karna’s father, approached Karna. Karna respectfully bowed down to his father and took his blessings. Realizing that Karna was the son of a charioteer, Bhima said, “Oh son of a charioteer, if you fight Arjuna, you will truly perish. You aren’t worthy of fighting Arjuna and nor are you worthy of ruling Anga.” Duryodhana was enraged and gave back a fitting response. However, by this time, the sun had disappeared over the horizon and the duel was cancelled. Arjuna returned to his brothers and Karna returned to the Kauravas. The Siege of Panchala When the Pandavas and Kauravas returned from their studies at Drona’s ashram, they had grown into young adults. As a token of thanks, the Pandavas and Kauravas would have to give Dronacharya a gurudakshina. “What should we do for you, guru,” Yudhistira asked. “Capture Yajnasena Drupada, the king of Panchala, and bring him to me,” Drona ordered. Dronacharya and the Kuru princes proceded towards Kampilya, the capital of Panchala, with a huge cavalry force. As always, Duryodhana wanted to show off his might to the Pandavas. “Guruji, can we attack first,” Duryodhana asked. Drona and the Pandavas agreed. Duryodhana, followed by his brothers, Karna, and Yuyutsu, stormed the city but were easily defeated by Drupada and his force. The Kauravas came back fleeing from the city. Arjuna laughed. “Now we shall go. You stay behind,” he said to Yudhistira. Arjuna raced to the city, with Nakula and Sahadeva at his flanks and Bhima in front of him. They broke through the city gates and Bhima started destroying the Panchala army with his mace. Elephants, horses, and infantrymen fell in thousands as Bhima spun his mace around like a tornado. Meanwhile, Arjuna defeated Drupada and his son Satyajita. He successfully captured Drupada and told Bhima to stop slaughtering the soldiers. Panchala was then split between Dronacharya ruling the northern half and Drupada ruling the southern. As they returned to Hastinapura, Drona rode on Arjuna’s chariot. He said, “Oh hero, you are now the best bowman. You have already repaid me by capturing Drupada. But I will ask one more thing from you as guru dakshina. I want you to promise to me that you will fight me when I fight you!” Arjuna was surprised by this promise. How could he ever fight his own guru? But being a loyal pupil, Arjuna promised. Further Education When they returned to Hastinapura from Panchala, Yudhistira was appointed the Crown Prince of Hastinapura. Meanwhile, Arjuna expanded his repertoire of archery skills. He learned how to use the bow as an extension of oneself. In this mode of archery, the bow is used as a part of the arm and treated like a sword. The archer stands sideways and, wielding the bow like a sword, is able to flexibly move the bow in all directions. This art form requires dexterity and agility of every single part of the hands. Arjuna also experimented and identified which type of arrow is suitable for which situation. The arrows he used were the Kshura, which has one sharp side, the Naracha, which is a normal arrow, and the spear-like Bhalla arrow. He also learned when to use to large and heavy Vipatha shaft. One day, in the court of Hastinapura, Drona called Arjuna and said, “Every teacher dreams of a pupil who will replace them in skill. For me, you are that pupil. You have learned everything that I can teach you. I now wish to send you to Agnivesha Jatukarnya, the son of Agastya Rishi and my own teacher.” Hence, Arjuna went to Agnivesha Rishi, from whom he furthered his skill of the sword, mace, archery, and chariot-fighting. Military Campaigns after Education Soon, Yudhistira decided to begin various military campaigns to recover the lost land of King Pandu. During his reign, Pandu had annexed various places, including Vatsa, Mithila, Kashi, and Suhma. He even killed Jarasandha’s predecessor and conquered Anga. With all these new territories, there was a constant flow of gold into Hastinapura. But with the weak reign of Dhitrastra, the situation had reverted back to the pre-Pandu reign. All of the territories and viceroyalties had been lost. One of these kingdoms was Sauvira. Under Dhitrastra’s rule, a powerful king rose to power and took Sauvira from Kuru. This king was really capricious and powerful. He performed a three-year yagna, which kept many Gandharvas as bay. Because his yagna had cost a lot, the king had imprisoned Subala, the father of Shakuni and Gandhari and a junior prince of Gandhara, who had become a rich trader at Sauvira. Yudhistira had heard of how the king of Sauvira had imprisoned Subala. He told Arjuna to go on a western military campaign and conquer Sauvira. Arjuna killed the Sauvira king and freed Subala. Sauvira once again came under Kuru rule. Next year, Sauvira rose in a rebellion under Vipula, a strong leader. He showed a strong disregard for the powerful kingdoms that bordered Sauvira. Along with that, he used violence for no reason, slaughtering merchants. Again, Arjuna went and killed Vipula. He also defeated Dattamitra, also called Sumitra. He was the leader of the Yadavas that lived in Sauvira. Since Dattamitra was his relation, Arjuna appointed Dattamitra the king of Sauvira. For the rest of the story of Sauvira, visit Sauvira Kingdom. After that, Yudhistira sent Bhima and Arjuna to annex Videha, Suhma, and Dasarna. They also annexed a part of Kashi and gave it to Subahu, the son of the Kashi king who had taken refuge in Hastinapura. The year after that, Arjuna single-handedly conquered the entire south. He brought back so much wealth that he was given another name: Dhananjaya. He gave this wealth to Dhitrastra, Yudhistira, Vidura, and Bahlika. The House of Lac- The House of Death Duryodhana and Shakuni made a plan to kill the Pandavas. Duryodhana sent them and Kunti to a palace at Varnavrata for a few days. Their plan was to have Purochana burn the palace one night so that the Pandavas would burn in the palace. When Purochana did this, the Pandavas and Kunti barely escaped. Vidura, who was waiting near Varnavrata, helped them cross the Ganga river and advised them to live in the forest for a while. The Pandavas and Kunti followed his advice. In Kuru kingdom, everybody thought that the Pandavas had died. Arjuna got to know that there was a svayamvara for Draupadi, the princess of Panchala and Drupada’s daughter. He decided to go watch the svayamvara. He sat in the area where the Brahmins sat. The person who strung a huge bow and used to that bow to shoot an arrow at a fish’s eye on the ceiling using the reflection of the fish in a bowl of water would get to marry Draupadi. Many kings tried but failed. Karna was also present there. He easily accomplished the task, but Draupadi rejected him because he was of a low-class. Drupada got really worried. He opened the challenge to any class. Many Brahmins and Vaishyas tried but couldn’t accomplish the task. Finally, Arjuna decided to try. He accomplished the task easily. He brought Draupadi to the Pandavas’ small hut. When Arjuna led Draupadi to Kunti, he said, “I brought something”. Kunti, who was not paying attention, unknowingly said to share between the five. When Kunti saw that Arjuna meant that he had brought Draupadi as a wife, Kunti was shocked. The five Pandavas were forced to all marry her since Yudhistira refused to disobey his mother. The Pandavas soon made an agreement with Narada. Every month, one Pandava would get to spend time with Draupadi. If another Pandava interfered, he would have to go on a 12-year pilgrimage. Arjuna had a son from Draupadi named Srutakarma. Soon, the Pandavas, Draupadi, and Kunti returned to Hastinapura. Indraprastha, Tirtha Yatra, and Rajasuya Military Campaign Dhitrastra and Bhishma decided to give a part of Kuru kingdom to the Pandavas. They gave the Pandavas a region called Khandavprastha. This region was every infertile. It was hard to grow crops here. Krishna came there to help the Pandavas. Soon, the Pandavas had built their capital, the great city of Indraprastha. After the Pandavas built Indraprastha, they focused on other parts of the half of the kingdom that had been given to them. Krishna and Arjuna went to the Khandava forest, thinking of how to make Khandavaprasta into a beautiful city. At that time, Agni appeared in front. He told them how he had been plagued by indigestion due to King Svetaki’s yagna, and he would only be cured if he burned the Khandava forest. (For the full story, see Agni) “I have tried countless times to burn this forest, but my efforts are always futile due to Indra. His friend Takshaka, the king of the Nagas, resides in this forest. Every time I set off a fire, Indra sends down rains to protect his friend’s tribe,” Agni explained. Arjuna and Krishna agreed to help Agni. But they needed to arm themselves. Agni gave Arjuna a chariot bearing the flag of Hanuman and four white horses. Arjuna then prayed to Varuna deva, who gave him the Gandiva bow and two inexhaustible quivers. Agni then started burning the forest. Immediately, Indra sent down a rainstorm, but Arjuna created a canopy of arrows above the forest to block the rain. Krishna used his Sudarshan chakra and assisted Arjuna. Soon, the entire forest was reduced to ashes and Agni was cured of his indigestion. Arjuna took a vow that he would kill whoever asks him to give up the Gandiva. When the forest had lit, Maya, the divine architect, had run out. Krishna had aimed his chakra at him, by Maya had fallen at the feet of Arjuna and sought protection. Arjuna had stopped Krishna from attacking and had thus saved Maya. Besides Maya, Ashwasena, Takshaka’s son, had also saved himself. After Khandavadaha, Maya became a loyal friend of Arjuna. He asked Arjuna what he could do in return for saving him from Krishna and the fire. Arjuna said that he didn’t want anything, but Maya insisted. Krishna then suggested that Maya can build a palace for them in Indraprastha. Maya built a very grand palace with many illusions for the Pandavas. Soon, Draupadi made a rule that no other Pandava wives could live in Indraprasta. Once, Takshaka attacked Indraprastha’s cows and cattle. At that time, Yudhistira and Draupadi were spending time together. Arjuna’s Gandiva was in the room they were in. He quickly got his Gandiva and defeated Takshaka, who ran away in fright. But, since Arjuna had interfered in Draupadi and Yudhistira’s privacy, he had to go on a 12-year pilgrimage. Arjuna started his pilgrimage by visiting the source of the river Ganga. One day, when he bathing in the Ganga, he was pulled by a really strong current. The current pulled him to deep under the river, where he saw a Naga princess approaching him. She said to him,” I have been watching you for a long time Arjuna. You are really brave and valiant. I wish to marry. Please accept my offer.” After resisting a bit, Arjuna decided to marry her. They married and had a son named Iravan. After a few months of staying at the Naga palace with Ulupi, Arjuna realized he had to leave to continue on his pilgrimage. He said his goodbyes to Ulupi and Iravan and then left. Arjuna then continued his pilgrimage. He went east, following the Himalayas, till he reached the exotic kingdom of Manipura. When he reached the capital, he spotted the princess of Manipura- Chitrangadaa. He was attracted by her beauty. He went to Chitravaahana, the King of Manipura and asked him,” I am Arjuna. Can I marry your daughter.” Chitravaahana was really happy that Arjuna, the mighty archer, was marrying his daughter. He said,” Yes. But, according to our culture, the son of the King’s daughter becomes the heir. So, can Chitrangadaa stay here after marriage.” Arjuna said,” Sure. Chitrangadaa and our son can stay here.” Chitravaahana was really happy. Arjuna and Chitrangadaa got married and had a son named Babravuhana. After staying at Manipura for a year, Arjuna left to continue on his pilgrimage. Arjuna passed through many tirthas. He went to South India. Finally, he reached Dwarka. There he met Krishna for the first time and realized he was someone great. Arjuna soon fell in love with Subhadra, Krishna’s sister. He wanted to marry her, but Balrama had already promised to Duryodhana that he could marry Subhadra. Krishna told Arjuna to kidnap Subhadra and take her away from Dwarka. When Arjuna did this, Balrama got really mad, but Krishna was able to calm him down. Arjuna and Subhadra lived in Pushkara for a while. Finally, Arjuna’s 12-year pilgrimage got over. He and Subhadra returned to Indraprasta. Arjuna remembered Draupadi’s rule about other Pandava wives not living in Indraprasta. He realized Draupadi wouldn’t let Subhadra live in Indraprasta. He disguised Subhadra as a milkmaid. After a few days, Draupadi realized she had been tricked. But, she decided to allow Subhadra to live in the palace. Soon, news came that Subhadra was going to have a child. Once, when the child was still in Subhadra’s womb, Arjuna started talking to Subhadra about how to break into a chakravyuha. The child inside Subadhra’s womb also heard what Arjuna was saying. When Arjuna started talking about how to escape out of the chakravyuha, Subhadra fell asleep. This resulted in the child not hearing about how to escape out of the chakravyuha. Soon, the child was born, and his name was Abhimanyu. Yudhistira decided to perform the Rajasuya yagna. He sent his 4 brothers to defeat all the kingdoms in India and collect tribute from them. Arjuna went to the north part of India with a large army. Kingdoms, Territories and Kings he Defeated: Bhagadatta of Pragjyotisha, Uttarkuru, Kulinda, Kalakuta Region, Devaprastha, Utsava Sanketas, Puru Kingdom, Vahlika, Trigarta, Uluka, Kashmira, Uraga, Avisari, Singhapura, Darada, Northern Kambhoja, Eastern Rishika, Loha Arjuna came back to Indraprastha with a lot of tribute. The Rajasuya yagna was performed successfully. Gambling Duryodhana and Shakuni made another cruel plan. They invited the Pandavas and Draupadi to Hastinapura (capital of Kuru) for a gambling game. Not knowing of the cruel plan, the Pandavas accepted. The Pandavas and Draupadi went to Hastinapura. Shakuni, with his magical dice, made the Pandavas lose everything, including their wealth, jewelry, chariots, Indraprasta and lots more. Soon Yudhistira also lost his brothers and himself. In the end, Dushasana dragged Draupadi to the court and attempted to disrobe her. Krishna saved Draupadi by continuing to magically add more to her clothing. After a long time. Dushasana gave up. In the end, it was decided that the Pandavas and Draupadi would go into exile for 12 years and incognito for 1 year. If they were identified during incognito they would repeat they exile and incognito. Exile and Incognito Year The Pandavas and Draupadi immediately went to Kamyaka forest. They soon arrived at a region called Sairisaka. The made a hut over there. One day, the Pandavas went hunting. They left Draupadi alone with sage Dhaumya and the great ascetic Trinavindu. Jayadratha, who happened to be passing Sairisaka noticed Draupadi. With Jayadratha was Kshemankara (King of Trigarta), 12 kings of Sauvira, Jayadratha’s brothers, Suratha (brother of Kshemankara) and Suratha’s son who was named Kotikasya. Jayadratha kidnapped Draupadi and went away from there. When the Pandavas got to know about this after they returned, they ran after the tracks of Jayadratha and his followers’ chariots. In the fight that happened, Nakula killed Suratha, Yudhistira killed Kshemankar and Arjuna killed all 12 kings of Sauvira. Jayadratha started to run away. The Pandavas ran after him. When they caught up, Bhima was about to kill Jayadratha, but Yudhistira told Bhima to spare Jayadratha. Bhima eventually shaved Jayadratha’s hair as an insult. Vyasa told Arjuna to go do penance ans acquire the Pashupashastra from Lord Shiva. He agreed. He started his penance on Indra Keelandri Mountain. While he was doing penance, he saw a boar. He shot the boar with an arrow. At the same time, another arrow shot the boar also from the opposite direction. Arjuna was surprised and wondered where the arrow had come from. A hunter and a gang of tribal men at the spot. The hunter said,” This bore was my kill. I shot it first.” Arjuna argued and said that he shot it first. The hunter challenged Arjuna to a duel. The hunter easily defeated Arjuna. Arjuna realized that the hunter was Shiva in another form. He bowed down to the hunter. The hunter then turned into Shiva and the tribal people turned into Shivaganas. Arjuna started begging for forgiveness. Shiva then gave Arjuna the Pashupashastra. After Shiva disappeared from the spot, many devas including Indra, Vayu, Varuna, Kubera, Agni and Tvashtra appeared there and gave Arjuna their weapons. Arjuna received divine weapons such as the Antardhana Astra (from Kubera), Gandharvastra, Aindrastra, Agneyastra, Vayvayastra, Varunastra, Sudaamanastra, Sailastra and the Tvashtraastra. Indra told Arjuna to come to swarga. Arjuna agreed. He was amazed by the splendor of his father’s palace. He got large meals every day and loads of entertainment. Chitrasena, the Gandharva king, taught him dancing and singing. During Arjuna’s stay at Swarga, Urvashi (an apsara), wanted to marry Arjuna. Arjuna said no because she used to be Puruvas’s husband. Pururavas was his ancestor. Hence, Urvashi was like a mother to Arjuna. When Arjuna called Urvashi mother, she got really mad and cursed him that he would have to live as a eunuch, singing and dancing with women. Indra requested her to reduce her curse. She reduced it so that Arjuna would have to be an eunuch only one year of his life. Indra asked Arjuna to defeat the Nivata-kavachas and the Kalakanjas at Hiranypura. These were both Asura tribes. Arjuna easily demolished them. Arjuna then left swarga and returned to where his brothers and Draupadi were. Duryodhana decided to tease the Pandavas on how rich he was and how poor they were. He came to the forest where they were living and set up a camp, right in front of their hut. He brought along tons of wealth to show off. One day, Duryodhana went to bathe in a nearby pond. When he was bathing, a few Gandharvas arrived there. They wanted to bathe in the pond also. Duryodhana refused to let them into the pond. Thus, a fight started. The Gandharvas easily defeated and captured Duryodhana. At that time, Arjuna arrived there. He defeated the Gandharvas and freed Duryodhana. Duryodhana was really ashamed and told Arjuna to ask for a boon. Arjuna replied,” I will surely ask for a boon, but not right now.” It was now time for the incognito year. The Pandavas made a list of kingdoms they could stay in for the incognito. They decided they would stay in Matsya Kingdom. Each Pandava and Draupadi disguised themselves as someone and took up an occupation. Arjuna remembered the curse Urvashi gave him and decided to be a eunuch named Brihanalla. Duryodhana and Susharma (King of Trigarta) did a combined attack on Matsya. This was because Duryodhana had guessed that the Pandavas were at Matsya. Virata and his army had gone to the north to attack Susharma and his army. There was no one to attack Duryodhana and the Kuru army. Virata’s young son Uttara said he would attack them. But, he needed a good charioteer. Arjuna (Brihanalla) decided to be his charioteer. When they approached the battlefield, Uttara was frightened when he the size of the Kuru army. It was huge. He forced Brihanalla to retreat. Brihanalla took him to an oak tree where the Pandavas had hidden their weapons before the incognito year. There, he revealed to Uttara that he was Arjuna in disguise. Uttara was shocked. Arjuna took his Gandiva and Uttara became the charioteer. Arjuna single-handedly defeated the entire Kuru army and Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Dushashana, Ashwashtama, and Duryodhana. Meanwhile, Virata and his army defeated Susharma. The Kurus and the Trigartas both retreated. After the war, since their incognito year was over, the Pandavas revealed their real identity to Virata. He was really shocked. Kurukshetra War Duryodhana refused to give the Pandavas Indraprastha back after the exile. He also ignored all peace treaties. Hence, the war was declared. The war occurred at the battlefield of Kurukshetra and lasted 18 days. The Pandavas won the war. Before the war started, Bhishma gave Duryodhana five golden arrows that would kill the Pandavas no matter what. Krishna got to know this. He reminded Arjuna of the boon Duryodhana had given him earlier and told him to ask for these 5 arrows as a boon. Arjuna did as Krishna advised. Duryodhana was shocked but reluctantly gave away the arrows as he didn’t want to break his promise. In the war, Krishna became Arjuna’s charioteer. Before the war, when Arjuna was doubtful about killing his own family on the Kaurava side, Krishna gave him the knowledge of the Geeta. Warrior Killed: Day Killed: Kingdom: Karna 17th Anga Sudharman 12th Trigarta Bhagadatta 12th Pragjyotisha Jayadratha 14th Sindhu-Sauvira Vrishasena 17th Anga Vinda 14th Avanti Anuvinda 14th Avanti Shatrujaya 12th
Shrutayaus 14th Ambastha Danda 16th Maghada Outskirts Dandadhara 16th Maghada
Ashwasena 17th Naga Territories Shrutayu 14th Abhishaha Achyutayu 14th Abhishaha Dirghayu 14th Abhishaha Niyatayu 14th Abhishaha Paurava Parvatraja Sivi Vrishaka Gandhara Achala Gandhara Satyasena 16th
Shatrunjaya. 16th
Chandradeva 16th
Chitravarma 16th
Arjuna’s son Iravan died on the 8th day. He was killed by Alambusha. Srutakarma was brutally killed by Ashwashtama on the 18th day while sleeping. Babravuhana didn’t participate in the war. He became the king of Manipura after the war. Ashwamedha Campaign After the war, Yudhistira became the king of Hastinanpura. Indraprastha was given to Yuyutsu (Dhitrastra’s son from a maid), who had survived the war. Yudhistira decided to perform the Ashwamedha yagna. Arjuna was sent to collect tribute from the kingdoms. He soon arrived at Manipura, where his son Babravuhana was king. Babarvuhana came to receive Arjuna with splendor. Arjuna got really angry. He told Babravuhana,” You are a coward. Instead of battling me, you are grandly receiving me as a guest.” Babravuhana realized his mistake and challenged Arjuna to a duel. In the following duel, Babravuhana killed Arjuna. Ulupi arrived at the scene and applied a magical medicine on Arjuna, bringing him back to life. Soon, Arjuna finished his Ashwamedha military campaign. The yagna was preformed successfully. Death After some time, the Pandavas and Draupadi left for their last journey. They went on a final pilgrimage to the Himalayas. Along the way, Draupadi fell to her death. Then Sahadeva fell to his death. After that, Nakula fell to his death. Then Arjuna and Bhima also fell to death. They were being dragged down by all their sins. After dying, Arjuna met Sahadeva, Nakula, Bhima and Draupadi at swarga along with all his enemies. Soon, Yudhistira also joined them. Skills Arjuna was an amazing archer. He was one of the best archers of his time. He shot his arrows really fast and knew many divine astras. Qualities Arjuna was really strong. He loved to be challenged. He always listened to his elders and always followed the path of righteousness.

Shakuni

Shakuni: The Master Conspirator The story of the Mahabharata is a story of death. The entire epic poem is filled with bloodshed and death. But along with death, this epic is also filled with deceit. The Mahabharata is filled with conspiracy to defeat the opponent. But a large portion of the deceit and conspiracy of the Mahabharata were designed by one man and his mind. The Mahabharata was a game for this man, a game orchestrated to fulfill his goal. This man used his genius and cunning mind to achieve his ultimate desire. This man was the master of deceit, the master conspirator. This man is considered the mastermind of the Mahabharata. This man was Shakuni, the devious prince of Gandhara. Throughout this post, we will take a journey through the life of Shakuni, the mastermind of the Mahabharata. We will explore his life from birth to death, all the while analyzing his inner motives and feelings. We will see how he controlled thousands and achieved his ultimate goal: the happiness of his sister. Family Father: Subala Mother: Vasumathi Brothers: Many brothers Sister: Gandhari Wife: Arshri Son: Uluka Background and Birth of Shakuni Gandhara was a kingdom situated in north-western Bharat (modern Peshawar basin). It was a small kingdom surrounded by mountains. Because of its location, the kingdom rarely interacted with the rest of Bharatvarsha. But this kingdom was very prosperous. Gandhara was known for many natural resources, such as precious gems and medicinal herbs. The strong horses and wool of Gandhara were also famous and were often traded to other kingdoms. The ruler of this kingdom was Subala. He was loved by his subjects and he was an efficient ruler. He cared a lot about his subjects, more than he cared about political and military matters. Subala had no enemies in other kings. Because of the formidable terrain encompassing Gandhara and the lack of foes, Subala knew that Gandhara wouldn’t be attacked. Thus, he hadn’t focused on the military and they didn’t have a strong army. Born to this king and his wife Vasumathi was Shakuni. Being the son of Subala, he was also known as Saubala. He was a handsome boy, but he was born with a physical disability. His leg was slightly contorted, and thus his steps came with a minute limp. From his youth, he was a clever and assertive boy, always ready to give his opinion. During those days, all young princes received rigorous military training. But because of Subala’s disregard for the military, Shakuni was barely trained in the use of weapons. He was able to use all the weapons, but he hadn’t mastered them. His dad just didn’t see any importance in giving Shakuni formal training. In his mind, Shakuni often felt that adequate attention was not being given to the army, as they could be attacked at any moment. But Subala always dismissed Shakuni’s arguments about increasing military strength. Though he wasn’t trained in combat, Shakuni became proficient at other activities. He became adept at scaling mountains and he developed a liking for games of dice. Soon enough, he had become unbeatable at gambling. Sheer luck coupled with his wits allowed him to excel at all games of dice. Shakuni also became an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. Shakuni also had a sister. Subala had named her Gandhari after his own kingdom. She was the most beautiful woman in Bharatvarsha. Shakuni deeply adored her and always wished the best for her. She had worshipped Lord Shiva and gained the boon that she could have 100 sons. Bhishma Arrives: The Day that Changed History One day, a messenger came running into the court of Subala. The exhausted messenger bore an expression of fear. He bowed down to Subala and said, “My Majesty, I have been sent by your eastern subjects to inform you that we have spotted a large army on the eastern side.” Subala calmly listened and didn’t react. Meanwhile, Shakuni became greatly agitated and enraged. He had always told his father that they must increase their military strength. But Subala had always rejected his ideas. Shakuni shouted, “I have always told you that we must be prepared for any situation. How will our army defeat this massive force!” But Subala responded, “Our kingdom is constantly attacked by barbarian tribes. These forces are merely barbarians or bandits that will be easily defeated by our army.” At that moment, the commander-in-chief of the army entered the palace and took his seat. His spies had given him detailed information regarding the army. “The army besieging is not a ragtag group of bandits or barbarians from the West. This army is a professionally trained military force. They carry proper weapons and armor. Their stock of supplies is also very extensive. We know that they are the royal forces of a powerful kingdom based on their banners. These banners are none other than the royal flags of the Kuru kingdom. At the center of the army is an old man with a long beard. He is dressed in all white and has a golden crown on his head. He is a very potent warrior and carries various divine weapons.” By the time the commander had finished dictating his message, the expressions of Subala, Shakuni, and all the courtiers had transformed into utter shock and terror. The forces of Kuru, one of the most powerful kingdoms in Bharatvarsha, were at their gates. And they all knew who the old man was. This god-like man was famous everywhere. He had the capability to destroy entire lineages. This man was the undefeatable Bhishma Pitamah. Bhishma was the son of King Shantanu and Goddess Ganga. He was taught warfare by Parshuram and the devas themselves, political science by Brihaspati and Shukracharya, the Vedas by Vashishta, mental and spiritual science by Sanatkumara, and the duties of Yatis by Markandeya. Bhishma was able to withstand the attacks of Parshuram himself when they fought each other. He even had the boon of ichhamrutyu, meaning he could only die when he wished to. He had supported the Kuru dynasty through all its dark years with weak kings. “I do not believe that Bhishma is here to attack us. If he wanted to gain territory, why would he choose Gandhara? If we react aggressively, then our kingdom will be utterly destroyed by the Kuru forces. We will invite him to the palace for a conversation,” Subala declared. Thus, a messenger set out to invite Bhishma to the palace. The messenger was treated warmly by Bhishma. Bhishma told the messenger that he wanted to meet King Subala. When the messenger came back with the good news, everyone was relieved. Subala prepared a grand welcome for Bhishma. The Marriage Proposal A couple days later, Bhishma arrived at the gates of the capital of Gandhara. He was welcomed with a grand celebration in the city. Bhishma was escorted to the palace, where he was greeted by Shakuni and Subala. This was the first time Shakuni was seeing the great Bhishma. After exchanging pleasantries, Bhishma, Subala, and Shakuni sat down in a private room. “King Subala, I have heard that your daughter, Gandhari, had propitiated Lord Shiva. And Shiva gave her the boon that she would have one hundred sons. The throne of Hastinapura has been empty for many years and now I would like to crown a king. Dhitrastra, the oldest prince, has come of age. I would like to have him married and then coronated. Thus, I have come with a marital proposal for the marriage of Gandhari and Dhitrastra,” Bhishma proposed. Both Shakuni and Subala were shocked. Shakuni knew that Dhitrastra was a blind and incompetent man. How could his priceless sister marry that useless man! He was enraged and decided that he couldn’t let this marriage occur. “How can I let my sister marry Dhitrastra. She must marry a suitable groom, not a blind and inept coward. How can you come to Gandhara with such a horrific proposal!” Shakuni bellowed. Bhishma was surprised by the prince’s reaction. He warned, “Young prince, you do not need to interfere. You can’t comprehend the power of Kuru. If you don’t cooperate then we can easily abduct your sister. So watch your tongue.” King Subala, who was helpless, asked for more time. Bhishma then left for his own quarters and Shakuni and Subala discussed the proposal. They were in a complete dilemma. Shakuni was not ready to give his sister to a blind and weak man, but Subala reminded him that if they resisted, Bhishma would simply kidnap Gandhari. Gandhari’s boon to beget 100 sons had turned into a curse. Subala declared that their only option was to give away Gandhari to Bhishma. Shakuni takes a Vow Shakuni hesitantly approached Gandhari’s room. He was on the verge of tears. They silently greeted each other. “Gandhari, I am willing to fight till I’m dead to stop this marriage!” Shakuni announced. But Gandhari had already taken her decision. “Brother, I have decided to accept this proposal. I would rather marry Dhitrastra than put all of Gandhara in peril. I have also decided to permanently blindfold myself for the rest of my life with a cloth to respect my husband’s blindness,” she sorrowfully said. When Shakuni heard her resolve, he was astonished. He couldn’t bear to see this proposal become reality. He collapsed and started weeping. That day, Shakuni took a resolve: “Bhishma has flooded my house with tears. I shall now fill his eyes with tears. He has inflicted a grave injustice upon us. I will use my wit to counter Bhishma’s arrow. I will stay at Hastinapura and ensure that my beloved sister Gandhari is happy and safe.” Shakuni Influences Kuru Politics The next day, Subala, Shakuni, and Gandhari met Bhishma again. They told him that they had accepted the proposal. Thus, Bhishma and his army set off for Hastinapura, accompanied by Shakuni and Gandhari. At Hastinapura, Gandhari and Dhitrastra were married with pomp and grandeur. Shakuni started visiting Hastinapura very often and soon, he was spending most of his time there. MYTHBUSTING: Modern media portrays Shakuni as a very revengeful character. The media says that Shakuni wanted to exact his revenge against Bhishma for Gandhari’s marriage. He obviously didn’t like the marriage, but his life wasn’t focused around revenge. There are many stories from various versions of the Mahabharata that are made to display Shakuni’s revenge. The most prominent of these is the story of Shakuni’s imprisonment. The story is such that Gandhari had a problem in her astrological chart, so her first husband would die. Thus, Subala married her to a goat first, which died. Gandhari then married Dhitrastra. Soon, Dhitrastra got to know that Gandhari had first married a goat. He was enraged and imprisoned Subala and his 100 sons, including Shakuni. Dhitrastra only gave them a fistful of rice a day. Subala knew that all of them would die, so he started giving all of the rice to the smartest brother: Shakuni. Soon, Shakuni’s 99 brothers died and when Subala was about to pass away, he told Shakuni to take revenge and told Dhitrastra to release Shakuni. Later, Shakuni crafted his magical dice from his father’s bones. This incident is just an additional story added to some versions to portray Shakuni as an epitome of revenge. This story isn’t mentioned anywhere in the original Mahabharata. Thus, we are going to deem this story as fiction and not as an event that actually occurred in the Mahabharata. Shakuni’s brothers and father didn’t actually die in prison. Shakuni’s brothers even appear in the Mahabharata war, so this is definitely fictitious. Anyways, after the marriage, Shakuni waited for the coronation of Dhitrastra so he could see his sister become the queen. But the date of the coronation kept getting delayed. The confused Shakuni finally figured out the situation. Vidura (youngest brother) and other Kuru royals were opposed to the coronation of Dhitrastra. Vidura had suggested that Pandu (younger brother of Dhitrastra) become king instead. Although Pandu had his own share of problems (viz. jaundice and disease), Vidura felt that a blind king wouldn’t be able to govern. Despite of Shakuni’s efforts to stop the proposal, Vidura’s plan was eventually accepted by everyone and Pandu was crowned the king of Kuru. This was a major setback for Shakuni as his sister now couldn’t become queen. That day, Shakuni made a new enemy: Vidura. In the future, Shakuni and Vidura’s opinions would conflict many times. Pandu married Kunti and them married Madri. He went on two digvijayas and brought back a lot of gold. One day, on a hunting trip, he accidentally shot Kindama rishi, who cursed him that whenever he engages in sexual intercourse with a woman, he will die. Overwhelmed by the guilt of slaying a brahmin, Pandu and his wives decided to leave for the forest. And so once again, the question came up: Who would become the king of Hastinapura? This time, Shakuni was determined to not fail. He was determined to enthrone Dhitrastra. By this time, Shakuni had gained a spot in the Kuru royal court. When the Kuru royals assembled to discuss the issue, Shakuni eagerly voiced his opinion. “The throne of Hastinapura has seen many time periods of vacancy. Even now, with our beloved King Pandu gone, the kingdom is without a king. We cannot let this trend continue. We must install a monarch on the throne immediately. I believe that we should install Prince Dhitrastra as an acting king until King Pandu returns. He is our only option,” Shakuni said. Bhishma, Satyavati, and Dhitrastra all agreed with Shakuni’s idea. In due time, Dhitrastra was made the king and Gandhari became the queen. Duryodhana: Shakuni’s Beloved Nephew Soon enough, Gandhari became pregnant. Shakuni knew that if his sister gave birth to a son before Pandu had a child, then his sister’s son would become the next king. The entire Kuru family waited for the news of Gandhari’s birth. But the news didn’t come. The pregnancy period had elapsed and Gandhari hadn’t given birth yet. One day, a messenger arrived at the palace with important news: Kunti had given birth to a son named Yudhistira. Everyone was shocked. How did Pandu engage in sexual intercourse without dying? Kunti had a boon from Durvasa that she could have children from gods. Yudhistira was the son of Yamadeva. While Bhishma and Vidura were delighted by the news, the news hit Shakuni, Dhitrastra, and Gandhari like a thunderbolt. Gandhari still hadn’t given birth and thus, Kunti’s son was the eldest, so he would become the rightful heir. Shakuni’s hopes of seeing his nephew on the throne were crushed. Enraged, Gandhari pounded her stomach, urging the baby to come out. But instead, a miscarriage occured and lump of flesh came out. Dhitrastra and Gandhari went to Ved Vyas for help. Ved Vyas divided the lump of flesh into 101 parts and kept each part in a cool earthen pot to incubate. After two years, a baby emerged out of one of the pots. Many omens arrived with the baby. Hastinapura’s elders like Bhishma, Vidura, and Ved Vyas suggested that the baby be killed. They said that if they let the baby grow up, he will do many bad things and bring destruction. But, Dhitrastra, Gandhari, and Shakuni refused to kill the baby. They named the baby Duryodhana. Shakuni was overjoyed with the birth of Duryodhana. That same day, everyone also received the message that Kunti had given birth to another son named Bhima. Shakuni was determined to make his nephew Duryodhana the heir to the throne because he knew that this would make his sister happy. But now Yudhistira and Bhima were competition for Duryodhana. Shakuni realized that he would have to apply all of his skills of deceit to defeat the Pandavas. In the following years, Kunti gave birth to a last son named Arjuna. Madri also used Kunti’s boon to beget twin sons named Nakula and Sahadeva. Along with that, the other 99 babies were also born in the pots. There was still one last pot left. Out of that pot was born Dushala, a girl. Shakuni’s First Moves From when Duryodhana was a child, Shakuni started interacting with him a lot, even more than his father. This built a strong relationship between Shakuni and Duryodhana. Whenever Duryodhana was in a plight, he would approach Shakuni. We’ll see how in the future, Duryodhana will approach Shakuni for everything. One day, Pandu tried to have sexual intercourse with Madri and he died. Madri became really sad and threw herself into her husband’s funeral pyre. Thus, Kunti and the five young Pandavas were brought to Hastinapura. Soon, an enmity developed between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, especially between the strong Bhima and Duryodhana. Bhima would often torment the Kauravas to show his strength. MYTHBUSTING: As I stated previously, modern media often conveys Shakuni as a vengeful character. Some accounts even say that he didn’t actually love the Kauravas. He poisoned their mind and used them as a means to destroy the Kuru dynasty. But in reality, Shakuni’s goal was the happiness of his sister. To make his sister happy, he supported the Kauravas and tried to make Duryodhana the king. Soon, Duryodhana couldn’t tolerate Bhima’s actions. As usual, he approached Shakuni for help. Shakuni realized that they would have to get rid of Bhima. After thinking hard, Shakuni came up with a genious scheme to eliminate Bhima…. Duryodhana invited the Pandavas to a beautiful place called Pramana Koti. Not knowing that this invitation was actually a death trap, Yudhistira approved. The day came and the Pandavas and Kauravas set off to Pramana Koti. Duryodhana had built an outdoor paradise at Pramana Koti. After a day of recreation and leisure, everyone sat down to eat. This is when Shakuni’s deceitful plan came into play. The kheer that Duryodhana fed Bhima had actually been poisoned. Because of the poison, Bhima started feeling weak and he lied down and fainted. Duryodhana tied up Bhima with vines and threw him in the Ganga river. Meanwhile, the Pandavas and Kauravas returned to Hastinapura, assuming that Bhima had went ahead as usual. In the end, Bhima was rescued by Vasuki and the Nagas that lived underwater. In a couple of days, he returned and told Kunti and his brothers what had happened. (For the full story, see Bhima) Shakuni executed many other plots, such as poisoning Bhima’s water, but they were are unsuccessful. House of Lac- House of Death The Pandavas and Kauravas went to Kripacharya and then Dronacharya for education. When they came back, they were young adults and Yudhistira was initiated as the crown prince. Yudhistira was a successful crown prince and the people really liked him. And as usual, this made Dhitrastra and Duryodhana jealous. Duryodhana approached his uncle Shakuni and with Kanika (one of Dhitrastra’s minister), he made an ingenious plan to eliminate the Pandavas. Dhitrastra sent his minister Purochana to build a palace in Varnavrata out of lac, a highly flammable material. As the first step of the plan, Dhitrastra started talking a lot about Varnavrata in the court. The Pandavas were intrigued by this place called Varnavrata. Sensing their curiosity, Dhitrastra came up to them and invited them to Varnavrata. Yudhistira suspected deceit, but he didn’t want to deny his uncle, so he said yes. But on the way, Vidura told the about the plot and told them to be careful. When the Pandavas arrived, Purochana welcomed them. A couple weeks later, Purochana burned the palace. If not for Vidura’s help, the Pandavas wouldn’t have escaped. Vidura sent a miner to help them dig their way out of the palace. After the Varnavrata incident, the Pandavas decided to stay in exile for a few years. Meanwhile, at Hastinapura, Duryodhana and Dhitrastra thought the Pandavas had died, so they rejoiced. But Shakuni suspected that they might still be alive. He suspected that Vidura had helped them escape his death trap. The Infamous Gambling Game After a couple years, King Drupada, the king of Panchala, was hosting a swayamvara for his daughter. The suitor who could complete an nearly impossible archery challenge would marry his daughter Draupadi. Duryodhana decided to go and Shakuni accompanied him. On that day, Shakuni met Krishna for the first time. Anyways, Arjuna won Draupadi in the swayamvara, but all five Pandavas married her. Soon, the Pandavas returned from exile and the kingdom was split, with the Pandavas receiving the western half of the kingdom, the bad half. This land hadn’t ever been used, so it was in a bad state. But the Pandavas ended up establishing the marvellous city of Indraprastha on this land. They then subdued all of the kingdoms of Bharata and conducted the Rajasuya yagna, to which the invited everyone, including Duryodhana and Shakuni. Shakuni once again witnessed Krishna’s greatness. Duryodhana was astonished by the immense wealth of the Pandavas. He also suffered a horrible humiliation at Indraprastha when he fell into a concealed pool of water and everyone laughed. Duryodhana stormed out of the palace in a fit of rage. “Duryodhana, please calm down!” Shakuni said. “I will come up with a plan to defeat the Pandavas forever. Just please, calm down. The Pandavas’ happiness won’t last for long.” “Uncle, I am filled with envy upon gazing at the immense wealth of the Pandavas. I cannot bear to see the superiority of the Pandavas. I shall kill myself. It is better than living in these conditions,” Duryodhana morosely said. “Oh Duryodhana, look at your power. You have great men like Bhishma, Drona, Karna, and Kripa by your side. You are allied with the great kingdoms of Bahalika. But don’t be rash and attack the Pandavas. With Krishna by their side, the Pandavas are invincible. But there is one way in which you can defeat them. I have identified Yudhistira’s weakness: his love for gambling. This hobby of his will now bring his downfall. As you know, I am a master at the game of dice. I will make him lose everything of his and get rid of him forever!” Shakuni stated. Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Karna were delighted by the plan. They went to ask permission from their father. Dhitrastra approached Vidura for advice. Vidura strongly disapproved of the gambling game and cautioned that this game could bring about a war. Dhitrastra also opposed the plan and all of the enmity, but he was helpless in front of his son. Reluctantly and consumed by blind love for his son, Dhitrastra approved of the plan. Thus, the Kauravas invited the Pandavas to Hastinapura for a gambling game. In the beginning, Yudhistira refused to participate in the game of dice. But Shakuni played a simple mind game and said, “If you are afraid, then don’t play.” Yudhistira looked at the Kuru elders, but nobody said anything. Duryodhana declared that he challenged Yudhistira, but Shakuni would play on his behalf. Yudhistira was swayed by Shakuni’s mind games and he reluctantly agreed. Yudhistira first bet his priceless necklace and he quickly lost it. He then started losing his gold, jewels, and his cattle. But by this point, Yudhistira realized that the game was rigged, but he had become gripped by the game and kept waging more and more. He soon lost all of his wealth and army. Vidura appealed to Dhitrastra and told him to stop the game, but Dhitrastra didn’t respond. Finally, Yudhistira bet his own kingdom and lost that as well. Yudhistira then bet his younger brother Nakula and lost him. Soon, Yudhistira had lost all 4 of his brothers and himself. They had all become slaves of Duryodhana. “You have now lost everything: except one. Draupadi, your wife, is still yours. You may bet her and win,” Shakuni cunningly said. Yudhistira was appalled. How could he bet his own wife in the gambling game! But in the end, he put Draupadi for stake. The entire assembly gasped and protested. And with a couple moves, Shakuni won and Draupadi was lost. Duryodhana and Karna cheered as Shakuni announced his victory. Duryodhana then sent his servant Pratikami to bring Draupadi to the court. Draupadi was upstairs in one of the chambers. After Pratikami failed twice, Duryodhana sent Dushasana. Dushasana dragged Draupadi by her hair and threw her in the court. Shakuni, Duryodhana, Karna, and Dushasana shouted,”Servant! Servant!” The entire assembly was horrified. With bloodshot eyes, Draupadi arose and questioned everyone in the court. She asked them how they could witness this and not object! But none of the Kuru elders answered her. Karna then suggested that they should disrobe Draupadi. Dushasana began to disrobe her, and Draupadi began to pray to Krishna. Hearing her prayer, Krishna made it so that the cloth around her was endless. Dushasana kept pulling of cloth, but there was always more left. Finally, the exhausted Dushasana gave up. By the time, the Pandavas were enraged. Bhima and Arjuna started taking vows to destroy the Kauravas. Sahadeva also took a vow, a very important vow in our story. Sahadeva vowed to kill Shakuni. But at that time, Shakuni disregarded the vow and thought it wouldn’t come true. Dhitrastra, who feared the Pandavas’ wrath, gave Draupadi three boons. Draupadi used the first two boons to free her husbands and their weapons. She declined the third boon. But Dhitrastra, who was still scared for his sons’ lives, ended up returning all of the Pandavas’ possessions to them. Draupadi and the Pandavas then went back to Indraprastha. Gambling Round 2 Shakuni was devastated. He couldn’t believe that the blind king had foiled his conspiracy. Duryodhana, Karna, and Dushasana were also enraged and frustrated. They knew that the Pandavas would now attack them and crush them. They realized that the only way to defeat the Pandavas was another gambling game. Thus, Shakuni crafted another plan to defeat the Pandavas. Duryodhana approached his father and said, “Oh Father, we have inflicted so many injustices upon the Pandavas today. They will never forget and they will take revenge. They have very powerful allies. We won’t be able to defeat them when they attack. We have to send them away and Uncle Shakuni has plan to do this. His plan is to host another gambling game. This time the condition will be that the loser must go into an exile of 13 years. The first 12 years must be spent in the forests and the 13th year must be spent in incognito. If they are discovered in the 13th year, then they must repeat the exile.” Dhitrastra was once again hesitant. But like always, he succumbed to his son’s wishes and approved. Everyone in the palace, including Gandhari, criticized the king for approving this evil plan, but Dhitrastra ignored them. A message was sent to the Pandavas and once again, Yudhistira foolishly accepted the proposal and arrived at Hastinapura. The second gambling game commenced. As Shakuni rolled his ivory dice, everyone in the hall carefully watched. But everyone knew that the victor had already been decided. Everyone knew that Shakuni would easily beat Yudhistira. And that is what happened. Shakuni declared his victory and Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Karna applauded. Everyone in the hall criticized Duryodhana for the deceitful gambling game, but Duryodhana didn’t care. Duryodhana gave the Pandavas deerskin cloth and they put them on in place of their royal garments. Sorrowfully and yelling insults at the Kauravas, the Pandavas left the palace for the forest. The War: Shakuni’s Death When the Pandavas’ exile ended successfully, war was declared between the Pandavas and Kauravas. All of the kingdoms of Bharata joined one of the sides. Shakuni brought all of his Gandhara forces along with his son Uluka. He also brought his brothers. MYTHBUSTING: Contrary to popular belief, Shakuni greatly despised the idea of large-scale war. Modern renderings have stated that Shakuni wanted a huge war to wipe out the Kuru dynasty. But in reality, Shakuni didn’t want a war. The gambling game was an effort the stop the war. In accurate versions of the Mahabharata (KMG and BORI CE), Shakuni tried to stop Duryodhana from waging the Kurukshetra War. Shakuni knew that Krishna and the Pandavas would win in a war. He wanted to use his wits to win the crown for Duryodhana, but his rash nephew declared a war. This is yet another example of the self-centered Duryodhana using someone to his advantage and then throwing them away. Duryodhana went to Shakuni when he wanted help plotting, but when Shakuni opposed war, Duryodhana completely disregarded him. As I said previously, Shakuni wasn’t a very potent warrior, so he didn’t kill many people in the Mahabharata War. But Shakuni was a master illusionist and sorcerer. He often used magical illusions to counter attacks. The 10th day, the day that Bhishma was subdued and laid on a bed of arrows, was one of the happiest days of Shakuni’s life. His mortal enemy, Bhishma, had been finally subdued and he would soon decide to pass away. Shakuni’s brothers were all killed by Iravana, Bhima, Abhimanyu, and Arjuna on the 12th, 8th, 13th, and 14th days. Finally, on the 18th day, the last day of war, Sahadeva rushed against Shakuni, remembering his vow. Sahadeva started assailing Shakuni with his arrows. Seeing his father’s plight, Uluka rushed at Sahadeva. Instantly, Sahadeva turned around and shot a crescent-pointed arrow, beheading Uluka. Shakuni looked at his beheaded son and screamed. Tears flooded his eyes. He remembered Vidura’s advice to Dhitrastra: don’t foster enmity with the Pandavas, it will lead to your doom. That day, Shakuni realized that Vidura had always been correct. Vidura wasn’t supporting the Pandavas, he was just trying to prevent death. But he always been driven by attachment for his sister and nephew and had crossed limits. He was no suffering the consequences of his actions. But Shakuni remembered his identity as a warrior and he decided to fight. He threw many weapons at Sahadeva, but he cut them all down with his arrows. Afraid, Shakuni dismounted his chariot and started running. Sahadeva ran after him and told him to fight. Shakuni turned back to fight and Sahadeva discharged a sharp arrow. It flew the air and found its mark: Shakuni’s head. The great Shakuni, the master conspirator, had fallen.

Gandiva

Gandiva The Gandiva is a really powerful bow made by Brahma. During the Mahabharata, it was owned by Arjuna and it made him really strong. Creation A long time ago, Brahma made this bow with his powers of creation. The purpose behind this bow was to destroy the wicked and unjust. History Brahma kept the bow with himself for a thousand years. After that, he gave the bow to one of the Prajapatis for another thousand years. Prajapati then handed the bow to Indra, who used it for 3585 years. Next, Chandra got it from Indra and used it for 500 years. Varuna then came in possession of the bow. He used it for 100 years and then gave it to Arjuna, who used it for 65 years. Arjuna then returned it to Varuna. Arjuna and the Gandiva After the Pandavas built Indraprastha, they focused on other parts of the half of the kingdom that had been given to them. Krishna and Arjuna went to the Khandava forest, thinking of how to make Khandavaprasta into a beautiful city. At that time, Agni appeared in front. He told them how he had been plagued by indigestion due to King Svetaki’s yagna, and he would only be cured if he burned the Khandava forest. (For the full story, see Agni) “I have tried countless times to burn this forest, but my efforts are always futile due to Indra. His friend Takshaka, the king of the Nagas, resides in this forest. Every time I set off a fire, Indra sends down rains to protect his friend’s tribe,” Agni explained. Arjuna and Krishna agreed to help Agni. But they needed to arm themselves. Agni gave Arjuna a chariot bearing the flag of Hanuman and four white horses. Arjuna then prayed to Varuna deva, who gave him the Gandiva bow and two inexhaustible quivers. Agni then started burning the forest. Immediately, Indra sent down a rainstorm, but Arjuna created a canopy of arrows above the forest to block the rain. Krishna used his Sudarshan chakra and assisted Arjuna. Soon, the entire forest was reduced to ashes and Agni was cured of his indigestion. That day, Arjuna took a vow that he would kill whoever asks him to give up the Gandiva. During the Mahabharata war, Arjuna used the Gandiva to kill many warriors. On the seventeenth day, Karna defeated and humiliated Yudhistira. Yudhistira was angered at his defeat. When Arjuna came to see him, Yudhistira criticized him because killing Karna was his job and he hadn’t done it yet. In anger, Yudhistira told Arjuna to give up the Gandiva. Remembering his vow, Arjuna rushed at Yudhistira with his sword. But Lord Krishna intervened and suggests that Arjuna insults his brother verbally. After heavily insulting his brother, Arjuna feels really guilty and takes out his sword to commit suicide. But Krishna again stops him and says that suicide is a sin. He suggests that Arjuna should praise himself because that is as bad as suicide. Thus, Arjuna praises himself and then falls at the feet of Yudhistira. Yudhistira consoles him and they pardon each other. Arjuna gives up the Gandiva Arjuna, surrounded by the Pandavas, Draupadi, and Agni, drops his Gandiva bow and quivers into the ocean After the Mahabharata war, Yudhistira was crowned king. Soon, the Pandavas became tired of mundane life. They left the crown to Parikshit and went to the forest. During their journey, Agni deva appeared in front of them. He said, “Oh Pandavas, Arjuna requires the bow no more. I got it from Varuna for Arjuna. Therefore, return it to Varuna.” Arjuna immediately dropped the Gandiva and his inexhaustible quivers into the water. Thus, the Gandiva was returned to Varuna deva. Agni deva disappeared and the Pandavas continued their journey. Story of Gandiva bow THE TRUTH AND UNTOLD: There is an interesting story of how Gandiva was acquired by Arjuna. Arjuna helped Lord Agni to cure the indigestion caused by a yagna conducted by King Swetaki. Lord Agni asked Varuna, who was in possession of Gandiva in exchange of annihilation of Khandava forest. He also gave Lord Krishna the mace Kaumodaki and the discus named Chakrayudha. Varuna also offered Arjuna the bow Gandiva, two inexhaustible quivers, a chariot made by Viswakarma that had Hanuman in its banner, and white steeds that were born in the region of Gandharvas. It was the same chariot in which Soma (Chandra) had earlier vanquished the Danavas. How Arjuna came into possession of Gandiva We know that Arjuna used the famous bow called Gandiva. This is an interesting story on how Arjuna came into possession of Gandiva bow. The Gandiva was made by Brahma and it could be used to One lakh enemies at a time. Later it came into possession of Indra, then to Chandra and then Varuna. The whole story goes here. There was a kingby the name Swetaki who was known for performing very long yagnas. His priests assisted him for a long time until they became frail. Once, Swetaki desired to conduct a one hundred years long yagna. His priests, tired from the hardships done earlier, pretended to be angry and told the King to approach Rudra for help. Swetaki was disappointed but he anyway meditated upon Rudra for a while in the ranges of Kailash. Finally, Lord Shiva appeased with Swetaki and agreed to help Swetaki under the condition that the King should first lead a life of Brahmachari for twelve years and he should continue to pour Ghee (clarified butter) into sacrificial fire without intermission for the whole period. Swetaki did as advised, and a Lord Shiva appointed Durvasa as his priest who officiated the grand hundred-years long yagna. Swetaki, due to his virtuous nature, later ascended to the heavens. This created a problem for Agni, who developed indigestion because of ghee feeding into fire for twelve years. Lord Brahma advised him to burn Khandava forest, this will cure his indigestion. Agni tried to burn the forest but failed as many as seven times but could not burn the Khandava forest. Agni again asked Brahma for help, who advised him to approach Nara & Narayana, who were on earth in the form of Arjuna and Krishna. Agni approached Arjuna and Krishna, who were living in the woods in the vicinity of the Yamuna. In exchange for their help, Agni requested for Varuna to give Krishna the mace by the name Kaumodaki and the Discus Chakrayudha that had a pole attached to it in the center. Varuna also offered Arjuna the bow Gandiva, two inexhaustible quivers and a chariot made by Viswakarma that had Hanuman in its banner. He also gave him white steeds that were born in the region of Gandharvas. This was the chariot in which Soma (Chandra) had earlier vanquished the Danavas. This is how Arjuna received Gandiva and Krishna received Kaumodaki. The story of Karna death and Vijaya bow Posted by Ritu Karna, the great warrior was supreme human being, yet people wonder why he did not get his due. Following story will help in understanding this. Death of Karna As Arjuna was in possession of Gandiva, Karna was also in possession of an equally strong bow called Vijaya. It was said that the person having this weapon could not be defeated in battle field. Then how did Karna die? Parshurama blessed Karna with the Vijaya along with other celestial weapons. Karna used the Vijaya bow only once in his life, on the 17th day Kurukshetra war, when he was fighting against Arjuna (who was using the Gandiva). Karna was also known by the name Vijaydhari meaning ‘wielder of the Vijaya bow‘. Knowing Karna’s might, Krishna on the 17th day warned Arjuna, called Karna that he can even defeat him if Arjuna did not fight with full vigour. With this bow Karna macthed Arjuna on the 17th day of the Kurukshetra war. Karna cut the strings of Arjuna bow many times but Arjuna could not do any harm to Karna. Realizing that Karna with the Vijaya bow is superior to Arjuna, Lord Krishna advised him to kill unarmed Karna against the rules of engagement of the war, who had relinquished his bow and was busy trying to lift his sunken chariot wheel. The story of Vijaya bow Vijaya or Vijaya Dhanush was said to give sure victory to the possessor. Parshuram gave Vijaya to his student Karna, who was a great archer, making him virtually invincible. Lord Krishna advised Arjuna to kill Karna knowing that Karna was impossible to defeat with this weapon in his possession. Karna – the Vijayadhari The bow Vijaya was specially made by Vishwakarma for Lord Shiva to destroy the city of Tripura built by sons of Tarakasura. Lord Shiva destroyed Tripura by firing Pashupatastra from Vijaya. Later, Lord Siva gave this bow for safekeeping to Lord Indra, who frequently wielded the bow in his fights with the Asuras. The Asuras feared the bow due to its destructive abilities. Lord Shiva instructed Indra to give the bow to Parshuram for the task of killing all the kshatriyas in the world. With this bow, Parshuram killed all kshatriyas in the world 21 times. From Parshuram, it came to Karna.

Gandhari

Gandhari: Eternal Darkness Gandhari was a major character in the Mahabharata. She was the husband of King Dhitrastra of Kuru and the mother of the evil Kauravas. Gandhari is often regarded as the epitome of virtue. At the time of her marriage, she vowed to spend the rest of her life in a blindfold because he was husband was blind. She shrouded herself in eternal darkness because of her loyalty to her husband. Along with that, Gandhari’s curse caused the Yadava destruction and submergence of the great city of Dwarka. Family Father: Subala Mother: Vasumathi Brothers: Shakuni and many others Husband: Dhitrastra Sons: Duryodhana and the other 99 Kauravas Daughter: Dushala Early Life Gandhari was born to Subala, the king of Gandhara, and his wife Vasumathi. Subala named her Gandhari after his own kingdom. She had many brothers, including Shakuni who dearly loved her. Gandhari was the most beautiful women in Bharatvarsha. She had worshipped Lord Shiva and gained the boon that she could have one hundred sons. The Blind King Once, a large army arrived at the borders of Gandhara. When this information was reported to King Subala, he assumed that it was just a ragtag group of bandits from the mountains in the west. However, the commander-in-chief informed them that it was the Kuru army, and it was led by none other than the great Bhishma. King Subala sent a messenger to Bhishma. The messenger came back saying that Bhishma wanted to meet the king. A couple days later, Bhishma arrived at the gates of the capital of Gandhara. He was welcomed with a grand celebration in the city. Bhishma was escorted to the palace, where he was greeted by Shakuni and Subala. After exchanging pleasantries, Bhishma, Subala, and Shakuni sat down in a private room. “King Subala, I have heard that your daughter, Gandhari, had propitiated Lord Shiva. And Shiva gave her the boon that she would have one hundred sons. The throne of Hastinapura has been empty for many years and now I would like to crown a king. Dhitrastra, the oldest prince, has come of age. I would like to have him married and then coronated. Thus, I have come with a marital proposal for the marriage of Gandhari and Dhitrastra,” Bhishma proposed. Both Shakuni and Subala were shocked. Shakuni knew that Dhitrastra was a blind and incompetent man. How could Gandhari marry him! King Subala, who was helpless, asked for more time. Bhishma then left for his own quarters and Shakuni and Subala discussed the proposal. They were in a complete dilemma. Shakuni was not ready to give his sister to a blind and weak man, but Subala reminded him that if they resisted, Bhishma would simply kidnap Gandhari. Gandhari’s boon to beget 100 sons had turned into a curse. Subala declared that their only option was to give away Gandhari to Bhishma. Shakuni and Subala approached Gandhari’s room. Before they could say anything, Gandhari sorrowfully said, “I have decided to accept this proposal. I would rather marry Dhitrastra than put all of Gandhara in peril. I have also decided to permanently blindfold myself for the rest of my life with a cloth to respect my husband’s blindness.” When Shakuni and Subala heard her resolve, they were astonished and saddened. Queen of Kuru The next day, Subala met Bhishma and accepted the proposal. Thus, Bhishma and his army set off for Hastinapura, accompanied by Shakuni and Gandhari. At Hastinapura, Gandhari and Dhitrastra were married with pomp and grandeur. After the marriage, Gandhari and Shakuni waited for the coronation of Dhitrastra as King and Gandhari as Queen. However, the coronation kept getting delayed. Vidura (youngest brother of Dhitrastra) was opposed to a blind king being coronated. He wanted Pandu (younger brother of Dhitrastra) to become king. In the end, his plan was approved and Pandu became king. One day, on a hunting trip, he accidentally shot Kindama rishi, who cursed him that whenever he engages in sexual intercourse with a woman, he will die. Overwhelmed by the guilt of slaying a brahmin, Pandu and his wives decided to leave for the forest. Thus, Dhitrastra became king and Gandhari became the queen. MYTHBUSTING: There is a common folk story about Gandhari and Shakuni. The story is such that Gandhari had a problem in her astrological chart, so her first husband would die. Thus, Subala married her to a goat first, which died. Gandhari then married Dhitrastra. Soon, Dhitrastra got to know that Gandhari had first married a goat. He was enraged and imprisoned Subala and his 100 sons, including Shakuni. Dhitrastra only gave them a fistful of rice a day. Subala knew that all of them would die, so he started giving all of the rice to the smartest brother: Shakuni. Soon, Shakuni’s 99 brothers died and when Subala was about to pass away, he told Shakuni to take revenge and told Dhitrastra to release Shakuni. Later, Shakuni crafted his magical dice from his father’s bones. This incident is just an additional story added to some versions. This story isn’t mentioned anywhere in the original Mahabharata. Thus, we are going to deem this story as fiction and not as an event that actually occurred in the Mahabharata. Gandhari’s brothers and father didn’t actually die in prison. Gandhari’s brothers even appear in the Mahabharata war, so this is definitely fictitious. Birth of the Kauravas Soon enough, Gandhari became pregnant. The entire Kuru family waited for the news of Gandhari’s birth. But the news didn’t come. The pregnancy period had elapsed and Gandhari hadn’t given birth yet. One day, a messenger arrived at the palace with important news: Kunti had given birth to a son named Yudhistira. Everyone was shocked. How did Pandu engage in sexual intercourse without dying? Kunti had a boon from Durvasa that she could have children from gods. Yudhistira was the son of Yamadeva. While Bhishma and Vidura were delighted by the news, the news hit Shakuni, Dhitrastra, and Gandhari like a thunderbolt. Gandhari still hadn’t given birth and thus, Kunti’s son was the eldest, so he would become the rightful heir. Enraged, Gandhari pounded her stomach, urging the baby to come out. But instead, a miscarriage occurred and a lump of flesh came out. Dhitrastra and Gandhari went to Ved Vyas for help. Ved Vyas divided the lump of flesh into 101 parts and kept each part in a cool earthen pot to incubate. After two years, a baby emerged out of one of the pots. Many omens arrived with the baby. Hastinapura’s elders like Bhishma, Vidura, and Ved Vyas suggested that the baby be killed. They said that if they let the baby grow up, he will do many bad things and bring destruction. But, Dhitrastra, Gandhari, and Shakuni refused to kill the baby. They named the baby Duryodhana. That same day, everyone also received the message that Kunti had given birth to another son named Bhima. In the following years, Kunti gave birth to a last son named Arjuna. Madri also used Kunti’s boon to beget twin sons named Nakula and Sahadeva. Along with that, the other 99 babies were also born in the pots. There was still one last pot left. Out of that pot was born Dushala, a girl. Later Life By the 17th day of the Kurukshetra War, all of Gandhari’s sons had been slaughtered by Bhima. When Dhitrastra and Gandhari heard of this from Sanjaya, they started mourning. 99 of their sons had died, only Duryodhana was still alive. Gandhari went to Ved Vyas for advice. Ved Vyas that she shouldn’t try to save the life of a sinner like Duryodhana. But Gandhari was desperate to save Duryodhana. After much convincing, Ved Vyas agreed to help Gandhari. “Because you have kept your eyes blindfolded all your life, you have a lot of power in you. This power has the potential to make your body as strong as the Vajra, Indra‘s weapon. If you take off your blindfold for a moment in front of Duryodhana, his body will become as strong as the Vajra, which will make his invincible,” Ved Vyas advised. Gandhari told Duryodhana this. Duryodhana started stripping naked to go in front of his mother. While he was doing this, Krishna came and managed to convince Duryodhana to keep clothes on below his waist. Krishna said that in a mace fight, you’re not allowed to hit under the waist. So, Duryodhana went to Gandhari with clothes on under his waist. For the first time, Gandhari opened her blindfold and power rushed out of her eyes into Duryodhana. She then put her blindfold back on immediately. On the next day, when Bhima and Duryodhana fought, Krishna told Bhima to hot Duryodhana’s thigh. Bhima did so and Duryodhana died. When the Pandavas and Krishna returned to Hastinapura, Gandhari got angry at Krishna for letting all the destruction happen. “Soon, the entire Yadava dynasty will perish right in front of you. Dwarka, your city, will drown,” she cursed. 36 years later, the Yadavas all got into a argument at Prabhasa. In the end, they killed themselves right in front of Krishna’s eyes. When Krishna died, Dwarka drowned just as Gandhari had cursed. Death 15 years after the Kurukshetra War, Gandhari went with Dhitrastra, Vidura, and Kunti to the forest for penance. They all started living as ascetics. Vidura undertook severe penance and soon died of old age. After a few years, Kunti, Dhitrastra, and Gandhari died in a forest fire. Qualities Gandhari had high moral standards. She blindfolded herself just because her husband was blind. Also, she continuously told Duryodhana to make peace with the Pandavas and go on the path of righteousness. Whenever Duryodhana asked Gandhari for blessings, she just said ‘may victory find the side of righteousness’. Cloning and Test Tube Babies in Ancient India – Legend of Kauravas Mahabharata is full of interesting stories. There is a very interesting story related to Kauravas, the 100 sons of King Dhritarashtra and his wife Gandhari. If we think of this just as a mere fiction, then we would just be like any other who just does things for the sake of doing it. There are many thought-provoking questions related to the story. How can someone like Gandhari give birth to 100 children on the same day? Why were they taken out of the jar at once? This incident dates more than 7000 years back during the ancient India and is unusual for that era. The question now is: Were they familiar with concepts like cloning or test-tube babies? Perhaps, it is something that has been there right in front of us for all these years and has been neglected to say the least. The Story Once upon a time, during the ancient Indian era, a sage came to visit Gandhari in Hastinapur, which is currently the town in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Since people were very cultural back then and had always kept guests at high priority, she did her best to make the visit of the great sage a pleasant one. The saint was very pleased with the hospitality shown by Gandhari and thus granted her a favor. She said that she wanted to have 100 sons who would then go on to be as powerful as her husband. That saint was Vyasa, the author of Mahabharata, and he granted her the boon and after some time, Gandhari was found to be pregnant. Time passed by. It had been two years. But she had not delivered the baby. Instead, after some time, she gave birth to a hard piece of lifeless flesh. She got disappointed that her wish was not fulfilled. It was then Rishi Vyasa arrived and took the flesh, cut it into pieces, and placed each piece in jars and filled it with some substance (some consider it to be oil, some consider it to be butter, depending on different versions of the scriptures). Upon request, the single piece was cut into 101 pieces. After nine months, an unspeakable happened. From the first jar, Duryodhana was born. He is the unconquerable one, or the one the most difficult to fight with. Right after that, all the other jars exploded and gave birth to 100 babies at once. So then, Gandhari had 100 sons and 1 daughter who was named Duhsala. Everyone grew up to be very strong and powerful. Names of the 100 Kauravas We all know the names of the pancha pandavas Yudhishtra, Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva... But have we ever paid attention to the fact that whether we know the names of the 100 Kauravas that were born to Gandhari. Well.. here they are.. I can assure you that they are not found anywhere on the internet to my knowledge.... I must thank one of my colleagues for helping me find this out. Duryodhanan Dussaasanan Dussahan Dussalan Jalagandhan Saman Sahan Vindhan Anuvindhan Durdharshan Subaahu Dushpradharshan Durmarshanan Durmukhan Dushkarnan Vikarnan Saalan Sathwan Sulochanan Chithran Upachithran Chithraakshan Chaaruchithran Saraasanan Durmadan Durvigaahan Vivilsu Vikatinandan Oornanaabhan Sunaabhan Nandan Upanandan Chithrabaanan Chithravarman Suvarman Durvimochan Ayobaahu Mahaabaahu Chithraamgan Chithrakundalan Bheemavegan Bheemabalan Vaalaky Belavardhanan Ugraayudhan Sushenan Kundhaadharan Mahodaran Chithraayudhan Nishamgy Paasy Vrindaarakan Dridhavarman Dridhakshathran Somakeerthy Anthudaran Dridhasandhan Jaraasandhan Sathyasandhan Sadaasuvaak Ugrasravas Ugrasenan Senaany Dushparaajan Aparaajithan Kundhasaai Visaalaakshan Duraadharan Dridhahasthan Suhasthan Vaathavegan Suvarchan Aadithyakethu Bahwaasy Naagadathan Ugrasaai Kavachy Kradhanan Kundhy Bheemavikran Dhanurdharan Veerabaahu Alolupan Abhayan Dhridhakarmaavu Dhridharathaasrayan Anaadhrushyan Kundhabhedy Viraavy Chithrakundhalan Pramadhan Amapramaadhy Deerkharoman Suveeryavaan Dheerkhabaahu Sujaathan Kaanchanadhwajan Kundhaasy Virajass Yuyutsu Daughter: Dusala

Agni

Agni: The Fire God Agni deva is the fire god and acceptor of sacrifices. He is the god of divine knowledge. He is also the ashta-dikapala (guardians of the directions) of the southeast direction. To invoke Agni deva the mantra is ‘Om Agnidevaya Namaha’. In the Vedas, Agni is the second-most important deva after Devapati Indra. His mount is a goat named Rama (not Rama, the avatar of Lord Vishnu). Birth Father: Brahma Wife: Svaha Sons: Pavak, Pavanmaan, Shuchi Marrying Swaha Once Agni attended a yagna. The Saptarishis and their wives had also come to this yagna. Agni fell in love with them, but he knew that none of them would cheat on their husbands. Dejected, Agni wandered around in the forest. Swaha, the daughter of Daksha, had wanted to marry Agni for a long time. She took advantage of this opportunity and disguised herself as the wife of Angiras. Disguised as the wife of Angiras, she was able to seduce Agni. Swaha then went on to disguise herself as six of the wives of the Saptarishis. However, when she tried took the form of Arundhati, Vashishta’s wife, and seduced Agni, Agni realized it was a trick. This is because Arundhati is really devoted to Vashishta. Agni said to Swaha, “Thanks to you, I was able to fulfill my desire of making love with the wives of the Saptarishis without breaking the rules of marriage. I am very pleased with you and wish to have you as my wife,” Agni said. Swaha was really happy and accepted the proposal. Agni and Swaha were then married. Agni declared that in a yagna, he would not accept an offering unless the name “Swaha” was uttered. That is why priests say Swaha before pouring anything into the fire. Conflict with Bhrigu In this second birth, Bhrigu rishi married Puloma, a daughter of Kashyapa. Puloma and Bhrigu started living together in an ashram. She soon became pregnant with a son. Once, Bhrigu went for his morning ablutions and left Puloma in the care of Agni deva. At that time, a rakshasa named Puloma came to the ashram and saw the beauty of Puloma. This rakshasa had actually been betrothed to Puloma before she married Bhrigu and was still enamored by her. But the Rakshasa then saw Agni deva and asked him, “Was Puloma wedded with Bhrigu through sacred Vedic rights?” Reluctantly, Agni said no. Hearing this, Puloma rakshasa decided to abduct Puloma. He turned into the form of a boar and he ran away with her. Frightened by this, Puloma gave birth to a son who fell to the ground. He was called Chyavana, which means “fallen from the womb”, and he was shining brightly. Overwhelmed by this, Puloma rakshasa ran away. Puloma then came back to the ashram and told Bhrigu what had happened to her and her son. Bhrigu was pleased with the birth of their son, but he was enraged when he was told that Agni had revealed Puloma’s status. In a fit of rage, Bhrigu cursed, “Agni! You will become the consumer of all things!” Agni became furious after hearing Bhrigu’s curse. “I am omnipresent. The gods and the pitrs (ancestors) accept oblations offered to me. Thus, it would be improper for me to consume an offering of unclean things,” he thundered. Agni refrained from cursing Bhrigu because he was a revered Brahmin and rishi. After this incident, Agni went into incognito. Brahma then called Agni and told him that the curse stands modified because his flames will consume everything but his body will remain pure. Satisfied, Agni went back to his duties. Angiras becomes the Son of Agni Once, sage Angiras performed severe penance and became more brilliant than Agni. The entire world was illuminated by his brilliant flames. Since Angiras was fulfilling the role of Agni, the people of the world started disregarding Agni. Agni was really upset by this and he once again went into hiding in a forest. When Agni disappeared, everyone was dismayed. Angiras went to the forest and consoled Agni and took him to Brahma. Brahma declared that from that day on, Angiras would be known as the son of Agni. Agni then resumed his regular duties. Testing King Shibi Shibi was a famous king. He was very righteous and virtuous. Once, he was doing a large yagna that would elevate him to the status of a minor deva. When Agni and Indra heard about this, they decided to test him. Agni turned into a pigeon and flew to King Shibi. Indra turned into a hawk which was trying to eat the pigeon (Agni). Agni settled in Shibi’s hand and said, “King, please protect me from this hawk that is trying to eat me.” Shibi replied, “I will protect you.” The hawk arrived there and said, “Give up that pigeon, it is my food.” The king replied,” It has sought my protection. I cannot give it to you.” “I too need your protection. If I don’t catch that pigeon, my wife, my children and I will starve to death,” the hawk said. The pigeon whispered,” Please do not give me to him!” The king said, “I won’t.” The hawk replied, “If you care so much about that pigeon, slice a piece of your flesh from your right thigh equal to the pigeon.” The king immediately agreed to cut his thigh. He cut a portion of his thigh and weighed it with the pigeon. Since the pigeon weighed more, Shibi cut even more of his thigh. Suddenly, the pigeon turned back into Agni and the hawk turned back into Indra. The part that Shibi had cut from his thigh was restored. Shibi bowed down to Agni and Indra. Agni and Indra gave Shbi the blessing that his name would remain immortal and that there would have a special place in Swarga reserved for Shibi. Agni’s Indigestion There was once a mighty king called Svetaki. He conducted many long yagnas. Not able to tolerate the high amounts of smoke in the yagna hall, all the sages left the king. Undismayed, Svetaki started another 12-year yagna in which no sages took part. Instead, the sages said that if he wanted to conduct another yagna, he could invite sudras (the lowest caste). Svetaki could not tolerate this insult and started doing penance on Mount Kailash. Soon, Lord Shiva appeared before him and made Durvasa rishi his priest. Durvasa rishi agreed to conduct the 12-year yagna. Throughout the 12-year period, Durvasa rishi fed the Agni (fire) lots of food. Agni was overfed and he developed indigestion. He lost his appetite, became weak, and his brilliance vanished. Agni and the Khandava Forest Agni’s indigestion continued for a long time. Dismayed, Agni approached Brahma for advice. Brahma said that Agni’s indigestion would be cured if he could burn the Khandava forest, the abode of the Nagas. Agni tried to consume the forest by burning it, but the Nagas quickly extinguished his fires. Agni was disheartened and once again approached Brahma. Brahma told him to wait for the arrival of Nara-Narayana at the forest. They would be the ones who would assist him. Agni waited for the arrival of the pair for many years. At that time, Arjuna and Krishna, who were Nara and Narayana, were living in Indraprastha. The Khandava forest was part of their half of the Kuru kingdom. Wishing to explore and civilize their lands, Arjuna and Krishna arrived at the Khandava forest. Hearing about the arrival of Arjuna and Krishna, Agni disguised himself as a Brahmin and requested their help. “I have tried countless times to burn this forest, but my efforts are always futile due to Indra. His friend Takshaka, the king of the Nagas, resides in this forest. Every time I set off a fire, Indra sends down rains to protect his friend’s tribe,” Agni explained. Arjuna and Krishna agreed to help Agni. But they needed to arm themselves. Agni gave Arjuna a chariot bearing the flag of Hanuman and four white horses. Arjuna then prayed to Varuna deva, who gave him the Gandiva bow and two inexhaustible quivers. Agni then started burning the forest. Immediately, Indra sent down a rainstorm, but Arjuna created a canopy of arrows above the forest to block the rain. Krishna used his Sudarshan chakra and assisted Arjuna. Soon, the entire forest was reduced to ashes and Agni was cured of his indigestion. Agni and Sudarshana King Nila of Mahishmati had a beautiful daughter named Sudarshana. Once, Agni took a small glance at her and immediately fell in love. Agni started dreaming about the beautiful lips of Sudarshana. In the end, Agni married Sudarshana and started staying at the palace of King Nila. At this time, Yudhistira launched the Rajasuya military campaign and Sahadeva was sent south. After conquering Vidarbha, Sahadeva entered the kingdom of Nila. Before long, a fire erupted in his camp. Sahadeva was distressed by this setback and started praying to Agni deva. This lead to him learning about the relationship between Nila and Agni. But Agni deva knew that for the Rajasuya yagna to be successful, Nila would have to surrender and pay tribute. He advised Nila to peacefully surrender. Nila listened to the advice of Agni and surrendered. Sahadeva then moved on to other southern kingdoms. Reciting the Agni Purana to Vashistha Once, Vashistha (one of the saptarishis), came to Agni. He wanted to have the knowledge of the Brahman. Agni willingly explained the entire knowledge of the Brahmana to Vashistha. Later, Vashistha narrated what Agni had said to Ved Vyas, who wrote everything down. He called his writings the Agni Purana. 34 Names of Agni, Fire God We learn two important things from the worship of Agni: 1.Vedic poets’ imagination fly sky high when they praise Agni. They are great poets and they are great intellectuals. From ordinary light (Fire) they take us to the Supreme Light. When we compare this with other ancient poems such as Babylonian Gilgamesh, we can estimate their level of intelligence!!

  1. Agni is not worshipped anywhere except India (Parsees in Iran went from India) and only the cognate words are in other languages. This shows that India is the original home of the Hindus and those who went outside spread it or observed it to some extent and it petered out in course of time. The original home of the Hindus still keeps it glowing. Sri Satya Sai Baba and other great saints of India performed Adi Rudra Yajnas (recitation of the long Rudra hymn 14641 times along with the fire offering) in our own time. 34 Names of Agni Amarakosa, ancient Sanskrit thesaurus gives 34 names for the Vedic fire god Agni. English words such as ignite, ignition, igneous rocks came from this Sanskrit word Agni. The oldest religious book and the oldest record of the human beings, the Rig Veda, begin with a hymn to Agni and ends with a hymn to Agni. That is the beauty of the Veda. It shows the importance the Hindus give to Agni. Next to Indra, Agni has the highest number of hymns. His name is mentioned in other hymns as well. If we take them into account, he tops the list of all deities. Fire god is the witness of all rituals in Hinduism. From birth to death all Hindu rituals include fire worship. They celebrate the first anniversary of the child with a Havan/Homa or fire sacrifice and end a person’s life journey by consuming the body to fire. Even the wedding is celebrated in front of fire or Agni. He is the witness for all good and bad things. The fire god Agni is extremely important in the Vedic religion. He is the messenger of the gods. He takes all the offerings poured into the fire to the gods. He is everywhere. He is in the sun and moon and as ‘jataragni’ in the stomach, says Sayana in his commentary. Jataragni is the metabolic activities in the body that produce heat. He is in the sea as Badava Agni. All the girls are possessed by him before the marriage. This means that all the girls must be married in front of him (sacrificial fire) as he gives them like a father gives his daughter to the bridegroom. The couple have to walk around the fire. It is called Saptapadi. Orthodox Hindus keep fire in a pot from the birth to death and use it for all occasions. The ‘aupasana’ pot contains paddy husk burning forever. It is never extinguished. When a baby is born it is lighted and the same fire is used to light the funeral pyre when the person dies at an old age. Agni has got cognate words ignis in Latin ogni in Old Slavic and ugnis in Lithuanian . He is worshipped in the houses in three forms by the Brahmins and they are Garhapatya, Dhakshinagni and Ahavaneeyam. Tamils have separate words for fire: Thii, Neruppu, Kanal. It proves Tamil is an independent language. 34 names of Agni in the Amarakosa and the commentaries on them give lot of interesting information: 1.Agni Meaning:– Going forward 2.Vaisvanara Relative of the people; Relative of Visva Nara: 3.Vahni Travels with wind 4.Vitihotra Place where many Ahutis are offered 5.Dananjaya Helps to earn wealth; also name of Arjuna and a snake 6.Krupeetayoni Source of water; vice verse Water produces Agni ‘’Agner apa:’’ 7.Jwalana: Glittering, glowing 8.Jataveda: He who knows all; Heat creates everything e.g. sun, body heat 9.Tanunapath He never allows the body to fall; one who does not protect his own shape; becoming dry or one who eats ghee 10.Barhi: Creeping, crawling 11.Sushma One who shortens or dries everything 12.Krsnvartma One who produces black smoke 13.Sochiskesa One who has flame as his hair 14.Usharbuh Bright in the morning; Brahmins make him bright in the morning. 15.Asrasya: One who burns everything associated with him 16.Brhatbanu One who creates light 17.Krshanu: emaciating 18.Pavaka: One who purifies 19.Anala: One of the Eight Vasus 20.Rohitasva One who has a red horse 21.Vayusaka: Friend of the wind 22.Shikavan One who has flames of tuft 23.Asusukshani: Dries anything at once or shortens 24.Hiranyareta: Golden shakti or veeryam 25.Hutabuk Whatever offered is eaten by him 26.Dahana: One who makes everyone feels hot 27.Havyavahana: One who has wind as a vehicle 28.Saptarchi One who has got seven flames. Kali, Karala, Manojawa, Sulohita, Sudumravarna, Spulingini, Visvadara are his seven tongues/ flames. 29.Damuna: One who subdue, quietens 30.Sukra: Colour of Sukra – Venus –Bright White 31.Chitrabanu Colourful light 32.Vivavasu Light is his wealth 33.Suchi; One who purifies everything 34.Apapitta: He is the embodiment of pitta in the water colour of horses Agni = red horse – rohitaswa Varun = white horse Kuberan = horse of Kumuda (water lily) flower colour Vayu = babru/ brown colour horse (Amarakosa commentary gives these details of colour horses) Agni has got other names as well: Abja hasta = lotus in hand Dhuma-ketu = whose sign is smoke Chhaga-ratha =ram rider Sapta jihva = seven tongued Tomara dhara = javelin bearer Number Seven and Agni Agni is associated with Number7 for some unknown reasons. He is called Saptaarchi and Saptajihva (Sapta is 7). His seven tongues have separate names (given above).in the Vishnu Purana he is called Abhimani, and the eldest son of Brahma. He had three sons by Swaha. Their names were Pavaka, Pavamana and Suchi. They had 45 sons- altogether 49 persons (7X7). Agni’s chariot had seven wheels representing seven winds. In the Rig Vedic hymns on Agni, we come across number 7 often.

Pandu

Pandu Pandu was the son of the king of Hastinapura. He was the father of the 5 Pandavas. He was the son of Sage Vyasa and Ambalika. He was a great warrior and conquered many other kingdoms. But because of a curse, he died. Family Father: Ved Vyas Mother: Ambalika Half-Brothers: Dhitrastra, Vidura Wives: Kunti, Madri Sons: Yudhistira, Bhima, Arjuna, Sahadeva, Nakula Birth King Shantanu of Hastinapura married Satyavati and had two children: Chitrangada and Vichitravirya. Chitrangada died young in a war, so his younger brother Vichitravirya became king. Bhishma, Shantanu’s son from Ganga, abducted the Kasi princesses Amba, Ambika, and Ambalika from their Swayamvara to marry Vichitravirya. Amba refused to marry Vichitravirya, but Ambika and Ambalika ended up marrying Vichitravirya. Only a few years after becoming king, Vichitravirya died of a dangerous disease. He didn’t have any sons and Bhishma’s oath didn’t allow him to marry, so there was no heir to the throne of Hastinapura. Also, Bahlika’s family was unwilling to rule as substitute kings of Hastinapura. Satyavati convinced her son Vyasa to bestow motherhood upon Ambika and Ambalika. Ambika first came to Vyas. When Vyas shined a light on her face, she shut her eyes tight. This resulted in her having a blind son named Dhitrastra. Ambalika went next. When Vyas shone a light on her, she went pale with fear. This caused her to have a jaundiced son named Pandu. Satyavati got even more worried. Dhitrastra, the rightful heir of Vichitravirya, was blind. A blind king couldn’t rule Hastinapura. She told Vyas to grant another son to Ambika. Ambika didn’t want to go because she was scared of Vyas’s look and the light he had put on her. She sent her maidservant, Parishrami to Vyas. Parishrami wasn’t scared and was granted a healthy normal child. Parishrami named him Vidura. Childhood and Coronation Pandu was educated in the fields of archery, politics, administration, and religion by Bhishma. Pandu became a master archer. When the three brothers grew up, one of them had to become king. Naturally, Dhitrastra would be king as he was the oldest. But, Vidura objected, saying he was blind. So, it was decided that Pandu would be the king of Kuru. Marriage Bhishma told Pandu that since he was now king, he should marry. Pandu went to the Swayamvara of Kunti, the adopted daughter of Kuntibhoja of Kuntirashtra. At the Swayamvara, he won Kunti’s hand. He returned to Hastinapura and established Kunti as its queen. A year later, Bhishma brought Madri, the daughter of king Artyana on Madra and sister of Shalya, to Hastinapura to marry Pandu. Pandu was enchanted by her beauty and the two married. Military Campaign 30 days after marrying Madri, Pandu decided to go on an eastern Digvijaya military campaign to annex more lands for Hastinapura. He took a southeastern route and first defeated Dasarnas. He then headed east and annexed Kasi, Maghada, Videha, and Anga. After that, Pandu turned south and conquered Suhma, Pundra, and Kalinga. He then marched back to Hastinapura with his army. The following year, he went on a western Digvijaya, which was less successful. Many kings like the king of the Yavanas defeated him. But he also conquered a few kingdoms including Sauvira. Pandu had conquered many kingdoms and many other kingdoms were already allied to Hastinapura, including Pragjyotisha and the Bahlika federation. Pandu was now satisfied. Hastinapura was not under any threats. Pandu dedicated all of his achievements to Dhitrastra. He knew that Dhitrastra was the rightful king of Kuru. He also always called himself just a proxy king and constantly said that Dhitrastra was the real king. Hunting Trip Now that the kingdom was safe, Pandu would often go on hunting trips. On one such hunting expedition, he saw two deer and killed them with his arrows. As soon as he killed them, they turned into a rishi and his wife. Pandu was shocked. He realized that the two deer had been Kindama rishi and his wife in the form of dear. Kindama rishi was really mad and cursed Pandu that whenever he engages in intercourse with any women, he will die. A moment after, Kindama and his wife died from pain. Pandu was really upset since he had killed a Brahmin who was a rishi. He decided to leave his post as the king of Kuru kingdom. He and his two wives Kunti and Madri left for the jungle. Pandu had only ruled for 6 years. Pandu’s older blind brother, Dhitrastra was then coronated as king of Kuru. Forest Life and Birth of Children Pandu and his two wives with some attendants went to live in a forest retreat on the southern slopes of the Himalayas. Then, Pandu sent away his attendants. He decided to go to the mountains with his wives. Pandu and his wives first went to the Nagasata mountains at the base of the Himalayas. The trio then went to the beautiful and enjoyable Chaitraratha forest. They then crossed the Kalakuta mountains and other small mountains range at the base of the Himalayas. Pandu, Madri, and Kunti then joined some rishis and journeyed further north into the Himalayas. They arrived at a northern mountain range in the Himalayas called the Gandhamadana mountains. After staying at Gandhamadana for some time, Pandu and his wives returned back down to the Gangetic river plain. They started living in the valley of the Satasringa mountains. The Satasringa mountains were mountains north of the Kalakuta ranges. Close to where Pandu and his wives resided, there was the Indradyumna lake. Soon, the news of the pregnancy of Gandhari (wife of Dhitrastra) reached Pandu and his wives. Once, Pandu decided to go to visit a Brahmin that lived north of the Satasringa mountains. “Areas north of the Satasringa mountains are really dangerous. You and your wives will die. And you will die childless, so your line will not continue,” a rishi told Pandu. “How can I even beget children,” Pandu asked. “I can see the future. You will have children. Just be patient and let destiny take its course,” the rishi replied. Pandu went to Kunti and said, “Kunti, it is not unrighteous beget children through others if one’s husband is unable to have children. Please, beget children for us through the Brahmins living here.” “Please do not tell me to do this. I would never do this, even in my wildest dreams,” Kunti responded. “Set aside your doubts and do as I say. My own line, the Kuru dynasty, was continued through this practice. Do not hesitate,” Pandu pleaded. “I have another solution. A long time ago, I was blessed by Durvasa rishi with a boon. The boon is that I can invoke any god who will give me a child with his essence,” Kunti said. Pandu was overjoyed to hear this. He wanted to have a child who had the qualities of righteousness, justice, truth, and sincerity and would never commit a crime. He also knew that his child would have rights over the throne of Hastinapura, as he would be the first-born prince of the next generation. He told Kunti to invoke Yama, also called Dharmaraja, who was the god of truth and righteousness. Kunti then invoked Yama, who appeared there instantly. When the child was born, a voice from the sky said that the boy shall be named Yudhistira and will become a great emperor. Pandu next wanted to have a really strong child known for his might. Kunti thought hard and decided to invoke Vayu, the god of wind. When the boy was born, a voice from the sky said that he shall be named Bhima and he will be known for his sheer strength and might. 10 days after Bhima was born, Bhima was sleeping on the lap of Kunti when a tiger appeared there. Out of surprise, Kunti got up and dropped Bhima. Bhima fell on a boulder. Instead of getting hurt, the boulder broke into pieces and nothing happened to Bhima. Pandu now wanted a son who would be invincible. Pandu realized that Indra was the strongest deva. Pandu and Kunti performed austerities to Indra for one year. Kunti then said the mantra and invoked Indra deva. When the child was born, divine said voices said the boy would be named Arjuna and would have prowess equal to Shiva, would be one of the greatest warriors of all time, would obtain the Pashupashastra, would visit Indra’s swarga, would destroy the Nivatkavachas, would defeat many kings, and would perform the Ashwamedha yagna. Suddenly, devas started showering flowers on Arjuna. Apsaras started dancing and rishis came to visit Arjuna. One year after the birth of Arjuna, Pandu wanted more children. Kunti said that three children were enough. Meanwhile, Madri was filled with dismay and despair. Kunti already had 3 children when she had none. She didn’t say anything, but Pandu could tell she was upset from her mood. After some time, she couldn’t bear it. She told Pandu, “Do you love Kunti more than me? She has three children while I have none. Please go tell Kunti to share the mantra with me so even I can have children.” “I had a feeling this was going on in your mind, but I couldn’t be sure. Now that I’m sure, I will go ask Kunti. She will definitely listen,” Pandu assured. Pandu went to Kunti and ask her. Kunti was apprehensive but agreed. She taught the incantation to Madri. Madri summoned the twin gods the Ashwini Kumaras. Soon, Nakula and Sahadeva were born to Madri. When they were born, a voice from the sky said that in vigor and beauty, the twins shall excel all. These five children (viz. Yudhistira, Bhima, Arjuna, Sahadeva, Nakula) were known as the 5 Pandavas. They grew up in the Satasringa valley. As foretold, their skills were amazing. They were respectful to their parents and were always in reverence to the sages. Death Once, Pandu was walking alongside the river with Madri. It was spring, so the ground was covered with flowers. Madri reached into the river to pluck a flower. At that moment, Pandu couldn’t resist the beauty of Madri. He forgot about his curse and had sexual intercourse with her. Madri tried to stop him, but couldn’t. The curse took its toll immediately and Pandu collapsed dead. Madri screamed. Kunti and the Pandavas arrived there immediately. Kunti was angry and scolded Madri a lot. Eventually, Madri told her that she tried to stop him, so Kunti calmed down. At the funeral of Pandu, Madri jumped into the fire and died. Kunti and the Pandavas then went to Hastinapura, guided by the sages. Kunti wanted the Pandavas to have the protection of Bhishma and Dhitrastra.

Chitrangada

Chitrangada
Chitrangada was the eldest son of Shantanu and Satyavati and the older brother of Vichitravirya. Right after he became king, he died fighting a Gandharva of the same name.
Family Father: Shantanu Mother: Satyavati Brother: Vichitravirya Step-Brother: Bhishma Birth King Shantanu of Kuru kingdom had married Ganga devi and she gave birth to Bhishma. Four years later, Shantanu was traveling near the banks of the Yamuna and came across Satyavati, the adopted daughter of the chief of a fisherman village. Shantanu immediately fell in love with her and proposed to marry her. Her father agreed on the condition that Satyavati and Shantanu’s would inherit the throne. Shantanu knew that he couldn’t agree because Bhishma was already the heir to the throne. But when Bhishma learned of this, he took an oath for the sake of his father that he would give up his claim to the throne and wouldn’t marry and start a lineage. Shantanu was pleased and gave Bhishma a boon that he will only die when he chooses to. Satyavati’s father agreed and soon Satyavati and Shantanu had two children: Chitrangada and Vichitravirya. Chitrangada grew up as a very learned and skilled prince. Becoming King and Death When Shantanu passed away, Chitrangada was crowned as the king. He was very brave, powerful, and afraid of nobody. One day, Chitrangada went hunting in the forest. He met a Gandharva named Chitrangada. When the Gandharva learned that both of them were named Chitrangada, the Gandharva demanded, “King Chitrangada, either you change your name or we fight.” Chitrangada refused to change his name, so a fight ensued between them. This duel was fought in Kurukshetra and it lasted for three years. In the end, Chitrangada of Kuru was killed by the Gandharva. Everyone was very upset by this. Bhishma told Vichitravirya to perform the funeral rites of Chitrangada. Thereafter, Vichitravirya was appointed king of Kuru.

Brahma

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