Pandavas
The Pandavas (Sanskrit: पाण्डव, IAST: Pāṇḍava) are a group of five legendary brothers in the epic Mahabharata. They are the sons of King Pandu and his wives Kunti and Madri. The five brothers are Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva. Their story is central to the Mahabharata, especially their conflict with their cousins, the Kauravas, which culminates in the great Kurukshetra War.
Yudhishthira
Yudhishthira, also known as Dharmaraja, is the eldest of the Pandavas. He is the son of Kunti and the god Dharma. Known for his unwavering adherence to truth and righteousness, Yudhishthira becomes the king of Indraprastha and later the Kuru Kingdom. He is a pivotal character in the Mahabharata and is often seen as the moral compass of the Pandavas.
Bhima
Bhima, the second Pandava, is known for his immense strength and valor. He is the son of Kunti and the wind god Vayu. Bhima's feats include slaying powerful demons and warriors like Hidimba and Duryodhana. His strength and fierce loyalty to his family make him a formidable warrior throughout the epic.
Arjuna
Arjuna is the third Pandava and the most skilled archer of his time. He is the son of Kunti and the god Indra. Arjuna plays a crucial role in the Mahabharata, both as a warrior and a disciple of Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and spiritual guide during the Kurukshetra War. Arjuna's mastery of the bow and arrow, especially his possession of the divine bow Gandiva, makes him one of the most revered characters in the epic.
Nakula and Sahadeva
Nakula and Sahadeva are the twin sons of Madri and the Ashwini Kumaras, the divine twin horsemen. Nakula is known for his exceptional skills with horses, while Sahadeva is noted for his wisdom and knowledge of astrology. Both brothers are loyal and skilled warriors who play significant roles in the Pandavas' journey and the Kurukshetra War.
Draupadi
Draupadi is the common wife of the Pandavas, known for her beauty, strength, and resilience. She is the daughter of King Drupada of Panchala and is central to many key events in the Mahabharata, including the infamous dice game that leads to the Pandavas' exile. Draupadi's unwavering support and determination are pivotal in the Pandavas' quest for justice and victory.
Kurukshetra War
The Kurukshetra War is a major conflict in the Mahabharata, fought between the Pandavas and the Kauravas for the throne of Hastinapura. The war lasts for 18 days and involves many legendary warriors and deities. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, is a dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna that takes place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The war ultimately leads to the victory of the Pandavas and the establishment of Yudhishthira as the ruler of Hastinapura.