Gandhari, the queen of Hastinapura in the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, is famously known for giving birth to one hundred sons, collectively known as the Kauravas.
The Story of Gandhari and Her Hundred Sons
Gandhari was the wife of Dhritarashtra, the blind king of Hastinapura. Deeply devoted to her husband, she chose to blindfold herself for life to share in his affliction. Her profound wish was to have one hundred sons who would be as powerful and mighty as her husband.
This desire was granted to her as a boon by the revered sage Dwaipayan Vyasa. Following this divine blessing, Gandhari became pregnant. In due course of time, she indeed gave birth to one hundred sons, who came to be known as the Kauravas. This unique birth paved the way for many significant events in the Mahabharata, ultimately leading to the great Kurukshetra War.
| Figure | Relationship | Number of Children | Notable Descendants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gandhari | Queen of Hastinapura, wife of Dhritarashtra | 100 sons (Kauravas) | Dhritarashtra's lineage |
The Significance of the Kauravas
The one hundred sons of Gandhari, the Kauravas, primarily led by their eldest brother Duryodhana, played a pivotal role as the antagonists in the Mahabharata. Their rivalry with their cousins, the Pandavas, forms the central conflict of the epic. The lineage and actions of the Kauravas are extensively detailed in the ancient texts, highlighting themes of duty, power, and dharma.
Their story serves as a foundational narrative in Hindu mythology, underscoring the complexities of family, ambition, and the consequences of moral choices. The tale of Gandhari's extraordinary motherhood is a testament to the unique and often miraculous births described in ancient lore.
