Chapter 18: Pāṇḍu seeks heirs; Kuntī bears Yudhiṣṭhira, Bhīma and Arjuna, while Mādrī bears Nakula and Sahadeva by invoking deities.
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_1]
There too, while engaged in the highest austerity, that mighty man became a welcome sight to the hosts of Siddhas and Charanas. (BORI: 1-111-1)
[PV-KDV:01_018_2]
Eager to serve, free from arrogance, self-controlled, and master of his senses, he strove to reach heaven by his own prowess, O descendant of Bharata. (BORI: 1-111-2)
[PV-KDV:01_018_3]
To some he became a brother, to others a friend, while still other sages cared for him as a son. (BORI: 1-111-3)
[PV-KDV:01_018_4]
In the course of a long time, Pandu attained stainless ascetic perfection and became like a Brahmarshi, O bull of the Bharatas. (BORI: 1-111-4)
[PV-KDV:01_018_5]
Wishing to reach the farther shore of heaven, he set out northward from Shatashringa with his two wives. There the ascetics said, “As we traveled ever higher over the king of mountains, heading north…” (BORI: 1-111-5)
[PV-KDV:01_018_6]
We have seen many inaccessible regions of this mountain, which serve as playgrounds for the gods, Gandharvas, and Apsarases... (BORI: 1-111-6)
[PV-KDV:01_018_7]
Kubera’s gardens, both level and rugged, the banks of great rivers, and inaccessible mountain caverns. (BORI: 1-111-7)
[PV-KDV:01_018_8]
There are regions perpetually covered in snow, devoid of trees, animals, and birds. Some receive heavy rainfall; some are impassable, and others difficult to approach. (BORI: 1-111-8)
[PV-KDV:01_018_9]
No bird could cross them, much less any other animal; only the wind, the Siddhas, and the great seers can pass through them. (BORI: 1-111-9)
[PV-KDV:01_018_10]
But how could these two princesses, who do not deserve hardship, travel on this king of mountains without becoming exhausted? Do not go, bull of the Bharatas. (BORI: 1-111-10)
[PV-KDV:01_018_11]
Pāṇḍu said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_12]
O blessed ones, they say that there is no gateway to heaven for a childless man. Being childless, I am tormented by this, and so I tell you of it. (BORI: 1-111-11)
[PV-KDV:01_018_13]
Humans are born on earth in their hundreds and thousands, bound by four debts owed to the ancestors, the gods, the seers, and their fellow human beings. (BORI: 1-111-12)
[PV-KDV:01_018_14]
The experts in dharma have established that a person who fails to recognize these obligations at the proper times has no worlds awaiting him. (BORI: 1-111-13)
[PV-KDV:01_018_15]
Through sacrifices he pleases the gods; through sacred study and austerity, the sages; through sons and ancestral rites, the ancestors; and through compassion, human beings. (BORI: 1-111-14)
[PV-KDV:01_018_16]
I have been duly freed from my debts to sages, gods, and human beings, but I am not free from my debt to the ancestors. That is why I grieve, O ascetics rich in austerity. (BORI: 1-111-15)
[PV-KDV:01_018_17]
When the body perishes, the ancestors’ destruction is certain—this is settled. Therefore, the best of men have children in this world for the sake of progeny. (BORI: 1-111-16)
[PV-OTH:01_018_18]
Just as I was begotten by that great-souled man in my father’s field, how might offspring likewise arise in this field of mine? (BORI: 1-111-17)
[PV-OTH:01_018_19]
The ascetics said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_20]
O righteous king, we know through divine sight that you will indeed have a blessed, godlike, and blameless child. (BORI: 1-111-18)
[PV-KDV:01_018_21]
Bring about through action what fate has ordained here, O tiger among men. An intelligent man, remaining calm, obtains the fruit without hardship. (BORI: 1-111-19)
[PV-KDV:01_018_22]
With that result in view, dear one, you should make the effort. Having obtained a virtuous child, you will find joy. (BORI: 1-111-20)
[PV-KDV:01_018_23]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_24]
Hearing those words of the ascetics, Pandu became deeply troubled, knowing that the deer's curse had thwarted his ability to beget children. (BORI: 1-111-21)
[PV-KDV:01_018_25]
In private, he spoke to Kunti, his illustrious lawful wife, justifying a means of obtaining offspring in a time of distress: (BORI: 1-111-22)
[PV-KDV:01_018_26]
“Offspring is one’s foundation in the worlds, ordained by dharma.” The wise, Kunti, know this as the eternal law from the beginning. (BORI: 1-111-23)
[PV-KDV:01_018_27]
For one who has no offspring, sacrifices performed, gifts given, austerities practiced, and vows properly observed—all this is said to have no purifying power in this world. (BORI: 1-111-24)
[PV-KDV:01_018_28]
Knowing this, O you of pure smile, I foresee, as I reflect, that without offspring I shall not attain the blessed worlds. (BORI: 1-111-25)
[PV-KDV:01_018_29]
Because of the deer's curse, my power of procreation has indeed been lost, O timid one, for I lacked self-control and acted cruelly; it has been struck down just as described. (BORI: 1-111-26)
[PV-KDV:01_018_30]
According to dharma, there are six kinds of sons who are both kinsmen and heirs, and six who are heirs but not kinsmen. Hear about them from me, Pritha. (BORI: 1-111-27)
[PV-KDV:01_018_31]
The son begotten by oneself, one begotten by an appointed man, one begotten by a man hired for the purpose, the son of a remarried woman, the son of an unmarried girl, and one born to a promiscuous woman. (BORI: 1-111-28)
[PV-KDV:01_018_32]
one given as a son, one purchased, one made a son, one who comes of his own accord, one born to a bride who was already pregnant, one who has reached sexual maturity, and one borne by a woman of lower caste... (BORI: 1-111-29)
[PV-KDV:01_018_33]
In the absence of each preceding kind, one should consider the matter and seek to obtain a son; men inferior to the best seek a son in times of adversity. (BORI: 1-111-30)
[PV-KDV:01_018_34]
The virtuous obtain offspring that yields the fruit of righteousness and is superior even to offspring from their own seed. So Manu Svayambhuva said, O Pritha. (BORI: 1-111-31)
[PV-KDV:01_018_35]
Therefore, being unable to procreate myself, I shall now send you to a man equal or superior to me. Obtain a child from him, illustrious woman. (BORI: 1-111-32)
[PV-KDV:01_018_36]
Listen also, Kunti, to this story about Sharadandayani, a hero’s wife who was instructed by her elders to bear a child. (BORI: 1-111-33)
[PV-OTH:01_018_37]
When her fertile season came, she bathed and purified herself; then at night, O Kunti, at a crossroads, she chose an accomplished Brahmin and made offerings to the fire in the rite for begetting a son… (BORI: 1-111-34)
[PV-OTH:01_018_38]
When that rite was completed, she lived with that very man and there bore three mighty chariot-warriors, beginning with Durjaya. (BORI: 1-111-35)
[PV-OTH:01_018_39]
Likewise, fair one, at my command, quickly endeavor to have offspring by a Brahmin eminent in austerity. (BORI: 1-111-36)
[PV-OTH:01_018_40]
On the new-moon day, the great seers, strict in their vows, assembled and set out, desiring to see Brahmā. (KUMB: 1-125-5; NILA: 01.120.005)
[PV-SVO:01_018_41]
Seeing the seers setting out, Pandu said, “Where are you going, venerable sirs? Tell me, foremost of speakers.” (KUMB: 1-125-6; NILA: 01.120.006)
[PV-SVO:01_018_42]
Today there is a great gathering in Brahma’s realm of the great-souled gods, sages, and ancestors. We shall go there, wishing to see the Self-born. (KUMB: 1-125-7; NILA: 01.120.007)
[PV-SVO:01_018_43]
Pandu suddenly rose, wishing to go with the great seers… (KUMB: 1-125-8; NILA: 01.120.008)
[PV-SVO:01_018_44]
crowded with hundreds of celestial chariots and resounding with singing… (KUMB: 1-125-10; NILA: 01.120.010)
[PV-SVO:01_018_45]
And so I, together with my wife, having given up my life through severe austerity... (KUMB: 1-125-16)
[PV-SVO:01_018_46]
Though childless, I would attain heaven through severe austerity. (KUMB: 1-125-17)
[PV-SVO:01_018_47]
But when the other three are lost, the self itself perishes. (KUMB: 1-126-20; NILA: 01.120.021)
[PV-SVO:01_018_48]
He declared that obtaining a son was a blessing greater than all rites. (KUMB: 1-126-23)
[PV-SVO:01_018_49]
After making due entreaties in an assembly of eminent Brahmins, the knower of dharma considered a virtuous Brahmin for you. (KUMB: 1-126-24)
[PV-SVO:01_018_50]
For, being childless, I desire death, not life. (KUMB: 1-126-29)
[PV-SVO:01_018_51]
The great Kaikeya Sharadandayani married your virtuous and renowned sister Shrutasena. (KUMB: 1-126-37)
[PV-SVO:01_018_52]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_53]
Thus addressed, O great king, Kunti then spoke to Pandu—her husband, the heroic lord of the earth and bull of the Kurus: (BORI: 1-112-1)
[PV-KDV:01_018_54]
O knower of dharma, you should never speak thus to me, your lawful wife, devoted to you, lotus-eyed king. (BORI: 1-112-2)
[PV-KDV:01_018_55]
But you yourself, mighty-armed Bharata, shall lawfully beget upon me children endowed with heroic strength, O hero. (BORI: 1-112-3)
[PV-KDV:01_018_56]
May I go to heaven together with you, O tiger among men; and you alone must approach me to beget offspring, O delight of the Kurus. (BORI: 1-112-4)
[PV-KDV:01_018_57]
For even in my thoughts I would not go to any man but you. What other man on earth is more distinguished than you? (BORI: 1-112-5)
[PV-KDV:01_018_58]
Now, broad-eyed one, hear from me this ancient and righteous tale, handed down through tradition, which I shall recount. (BORI: 1-112-6)
[PV-OTH:01_018_59]
Long ago, there was a king renowned as Vyuṣitāśva, supremely righteous and an extender of Pūru’s lineage. (BORI: 1-112-7)
[PV-OTH:01_018_60]
While that righteous and noble king was performing a sacrifice, the gods, including Indra, came there together with the great seers. (BORI: 1-112-8)
[PV-OTH:01_018_61]
Then, at the sacrifice of the great-hearted royal sage Vyuṣitāśva, Indra was exhilarated by soma, and the twice-born by sacrificial gifts. (BORI: 1-112-9)
[PV-OTH:01_018_62]
Then, O king, Vyushitashva outshone all mortals, as the sun outshines all beings at the end of the cold season. (BORI: 1-112-10)
[PV-OTH:01_018_63]
After conquering and capturing the kings, that best of rulers subdued those of the east, the north, the central regions, and the south. (BORI: 1-112-11)
[PV-OTH:01_018_64]
at the great horse sacrifice. For the valiant Vyuṣitāśva, that lord of kings, was endowed with the strength of ten elephants. (BORI: 1-112-12)
[PV-OTH:01_018_65]
Those who know the ancient lore sing this verse about him: “Having conquered this earth as far as the ocean, Vyushitashva protected all classes of people as a father protects his own sons.” (BORI: 1-112-13)
[PV-OTH:01_018_66]
Performing great sacrifices, he gave wealth to the Brahmins. Having amassed boundless treasures, he celebrated magnificent rites; he pressed Soma in abundance and conducted the full courses of Soma sacrifices. (BORI: 1-112-14)
[PV-OTH:01_018_67]
His deeply beloved wife was a Kākṣīvatī named Bhadrā, O king, unrivalled in beauty on earth. (BORI: 1-112-15)
[PV-OTH:01_018_68]
The two desired each other, so tradition says. Maddened with desire for her, he contracted consumption. (BORI: 1-112-16)
[PV-OTH:01_018_69]
Because of this, before long he set like the sun. When that lord of men had died, his wife, deeply distressed… (BORI: 1-112-17)
[PV-OTH:01_018_70]
Childless and tormented by profound grief, Bhadrā lamented as follows, O tiger among men—or so we have heard. Listen to her lament, O lord of men. (BORI: 1-112-18)
[PV-OTH:01_018_71]
O knower of the highest dharma, any woman who, bereft of sons, lives without her husband does not truly live; she is miserable. (BORI: 1-112-19)
[PV-OTH:01_018_72]
Without her husband, death is better for a woman, O foremost of Kshatriyas. I wish to follow your path; have mercy and take me with you. (BORI: 1-112-20)
[PV-OTH:01_018_73]
Without you, I cannot bear to live even for a moment. Show me mercy, O king, and take me away from here at once. (BORI: 1-112-21)
[PV-OTH:01_018_74]
I shall follow behind you over even and uneven ground, O tiger among men, as you go onward without turning back. (BORI: 1-112-22)
[PV-OTH:01_018_75]
Like a shadow that never leaves you, O king, I shall always obey you, O tiger among men, and remain forever devoted to your pleasure and welfare. (BORI: 1-112-23)
[PV-OTH:01_018_76]
From this day forward, O king, grievous anxieties that dry up the heart will overwhelm me in your absence, O lotus-eyed one. (BORI: 1-112-24)
[PV-OTH:01_018_77]
Surely, O king, in former lives I, ill-fated woman, must have separated companions or broken apart unions. (BORI: 1-112-25)
[PV-OTH:01_018_78]
This suffering, born of separation from you, has now overtaken me, O king, as the result of sinful deeds accumulated in former lives. (BORI: 1-112-26)
[PV-OTH:01_018_79]
From this day forward, O king, I shall lie on a bed of kusa grass, overwhelmed by sorrow and longing only to see you. (BORI: 1-112-27)
[PV-OTH:01_018_80]
Tiger among men, please show yourself to me as I grieve—wretched, helpless, pitiable, and lamenting, lord of men. (BORI: 1-112-28)
[PV-OTH:01_018_81]
As she embraced the corpse and lamented thus again and again in many ways, an unseen voice is said to have spoken: (BORI: 1-112-29)
[PV-OTH:01_018_82]
Arise, good lady, and go. I shall grant you a boon here: I will beget children upon you, lovely-smiling one. (BORI: 1-112-30)
[PV-OTH:01_018_83]
Lovely-hipped one, after bathing at the end of your menstrual period, lie down with me on your own bed on the fourteenth or the eighth day. (BORI: 1-112-31)
[PV-OTH:01_018_84]
Thus addressed, the faithful goddess Bhadrā, desiring sons, did exactly as she had been told. (BORI: 1-112-32)
[PV-OTH:01_018_85]
By that corpse, the lady bore three Śālva sons and four Madra sons, O ruler of men, best of the Bharatas. (BORI: 1-112-33)
[PV-OTH:01_018_86]
Likewise, O bull of the Bharatas, you too can beget sons upon me by an act of will, through the power of ascetic yoga. (BORI: 1-112-34)
[PV-OTH:01_018_87]
The gods and Brahmarshis themselves performed this act at that time, when… (KUMB: 1-127-10; NILA: 01.121.010)
[PV-SVO:01_018_88]
in the case of Vyushitashva, the renowned king of men, O best of the Kurus. (KUMB: 1-127-14; NILA: 01.121.014)
[PV-SVO:01_018_89]
Thus this separation from you has befallen me. (KUMB: 1-127-27; NILA: 01.121.027)
[PV-SVO:01_018_90]
But a woman who lives even for a moment separated from her husband lives in misery, sinful as she is, like one dwelling in hell, O king. (KUMB: 1-127-28; NILA: 01.121.028)
[PV-SVO:01_018_91]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_92]
Thus addressed by her, the king, who knew dharma, again spoke to the queen these excellent words, in keeping with dharma: (BORI: 1-113-1)
[PV-KDV:01_018_93]
So it was, Kunti: in ancient times Vyushitashva did just as you have said, fair lady, for he was like an immortal. (BORI: 1-113-2)
[PV-OTH:01_018_94]
But now I shall explain this rule of dharma; learn it from me. It is ancient, discerned by great seers who knew dharma. (BORI: 1-113-3)
[PV-OTH:01_018_95]
In ancient times, fair-faced one, women were said to be unrestricted, free to go where they pleased and independent, lovely-eyed one. (BORI: 1-113-4)
[PV-OTH:01_018_96]
For women to be unfaithful to their husbands from their youth onward was not unrighteous, fortunate and lovely lady, for in ancient times that was the accepted law. (BORI: 1-113-5)
[PV-OTH:01_018_97]
Even today, creatures born in animal wombs, free from desire and hatred, follow that ancient law. This law, attested from ancient times, is also honored by the great seers. (BORI: 1-113-6)
[PV-OTH:01_018_98]
And among the northern Kurus, fair-thighed one, that ancient custom, which favors women, still prevails today. (BORI: 1-113-7)
[PV-OTH:01_018_99]
In this world, however, O fair-smiling woman, this rule was established only recently. Hear from me in detail by whom and why. (BORI: 1-113-8)
[PV-OTH:01_018_100]
We have heard that there was a great seer named Uddālaka. His son was a sage renowned as Śvetaketu. (BORI: 1-113-9)
[PV-OTH:01_018_101]
We have heard that he established this rule among human beings in anger. Lotus-petal-eyed one, learn from me the reason why. (BORI: 1-113-10)
[PV-OTH:01_018_102]
Once, it is said, in the presence of Śvetaketu’s father, a Brahmin took Śvetaketu’s mother by the hand and said, “Let us go.” (BORI: 1-113-11)
[PV-OTH:01_018_103]
Then the sage’s son, enraged at seeing his mother being taken away as if by force, became angry. (BORI: 1-113-12)
[PV-OTH:01_018_104]
Seeing him enraged, his father said to Śvetaketu, “My son, do not be angry. This is the ancient custom.” (BORI: 1-113-13)
[PV-OTH:01_018_105]
For women of every social class are unrestricted on earth. Just as cows remain within their respective kinds, my son, so do people. (BORI: 1-113-14)
[PV-OTH:01_018_106]
Then the sage’s son Śvetaketu could not tolerate that custom, and he established this rule for men and women upon the earth… (BORI: 1-113-15)
[PV-OTH:01_018_107]
Among human beings, O greatly fortunate one, but not among other creatures. We have heard that this rule has remained in force since that time. (BORI: 1-113-16)
[PV-OTH:01_018_108]
From this day onward, a woman who is unfaithful to her husband will incur the misery-bringing sin of killing an embryo. (BORI: 1-113-17)
[PV-OTH:01_018_109]
Likewise, a man who is unfaithful to his wife, though she is virginal, chaste, and devoted to him, will incur this same sin on earth. (BORI: 1-113-18)
[PV-OTH:01_018_110]
A wife who, when directed by her husband solely for the sake of offspring, does not comply will incur this same sin. (BORI: 1-113-19)
[PV-OTH:01_018_111]
Thus, timid one, this righteous rule was established long ago by force by Śvetaketu, the son of Uddālaka. (BORI: 1-113-20)
[PV-OTH:01_018_112]
And, lovely-thighed one, Madayanti, charged by Saudasa with bearing a child, went to the sage Vasiṣṭha, as we have heard. (BORI: 1-113-21)
[PV-OTH:01_018_113]
And from him that beautiful woman, the wife of Kalmashapada, bore a son named Ashmaka, seeking to please her husband. (BORI: 1-113-22)
[PV-OTH:01_018_114]
You also know, lotus-eyed one, that we were born from Krishna Dvaipayana, gentle lady, to continue the Kuru line. (BORI: 1-113-23)
[PV-OTH:01_018_115]
Therefore, having duly considered all these reasons, you ought to act upon these righteous words of mine, blameless lady. (BORI: 1-113-24)
[PV-OTH:01_018_116]
At each fertile season, princess of strict vows, a woman must not disobey her husband. Thus do those who know dharma understand the law. (BORI: 1-113-25)
[PV-OTH:01_018_117]
At all other times, a woman is said to be entitled to independence. Good people declare this to be an ancient law. (BORI: 1-113-26)
[PV-OTH:01_018_118]
Princess, whatever a husband tells his wife to do, whether righteous or unrighteous, must be done just so—this is what those who know dharma hold. (BORI: 1-113-27)
[PV-KDV:01_018_119]
especially when he longs for a son but is himself incapable of procreation, as I am, O flawless-limbed woman, yearning to see a son. (BORI: 1-113-28)
[PV-KDV:01_018_120]
Therefore, fair one, I have raised these joined hands—red in finger and palm and resembling lotus leaves—to my head to win your favor. (BORI: 1-113-29)
[PV-OTH:01_018_121]
At my behest, O lovely-haired woman, you should bear sons endowed with virtue by a Brahmin eminent in austerity. Through you, O broad-hipped woman, I may attain the destiny of those who have sons. (BORI: 1-113-30)
[PV-KDV:01_018_122]
Thus addressed, Kunti, the lovely-hipped woman devoted to her husband’s pleasure and welfare, replied to Pandu, the conqueror of enemy cities: (BORI: 1-113-31)
[PV-KDV:01_018_123]
As a young girl in my father’s house, I was assigned to attend to guests. There I served a stern Brahmin of strict vows. (BORI: 1-113-32)
[PV-KDV:01_018_124]
I pleased with every effort that self-controlled man whom people know as Durvasas, whose conviction concerning dharma was profound. (BORI: 1-113-33)
[PV-KDV:01_018_125]
That blessed one offered me a boon endowed with magical power, gave me a collection of mantras, and said this to me: (BORI: 1-113-34)
[PV-KDV:01_018_126]
Whichever god you invoke with this mantra, whether willingly or unwillingly, will come under your control. (BORI: 1-113-35)
[PV-KDV:01_018_127]
Thus was I told then by that Brahmin in my father’s house, O Bharata. His word is true, and the time for it has now come. (BORI: 1-113-36)
[PV-KDV:01_018_128]
With your permission, O king, I would invoke a god by that mantra, O royal sage, so that we might have a child, O lord. (BORI: 1-113-37)
[PV-KDV:01_018_129]
Tell me which god I should summon, O best of those who know the truth. Know that I stand ready to perform this act, awaiting your permission. (BORI: 1-113-38)
[PV-KDV:01_018_130]
Pandu said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_131]
This very day, fair-hipped woman, prepare yourself according to the prescribed rite. Auspicious lady, invoke Dharma, for among the gods he is endowed with righteousness. (BORI: 1-113-39)
[PV-KDV:01_018_132]
In this way, our righteousness will never be tainted by unrighteousness, and the world, fair-hipped one, will regard this as righteous. (BORI: 1-113-40)
[PV-KDV:01_018_133]
He will be righteous among the Kurus, without doubt; and since he is bestowed by Dharma, his mind will not delight in unrighteousness. (BORI: 1-113-41)
[PV-KDV:01_018_134]
Therefore, O fair-smiling one, place righteousness foremost, remain disciplined, and propitiate Dharma with due rites and incantations. (BORI: 1-113-42)
[PV-KDV:01_018_135]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_136]
Thus addressed by her husband, the beautiful woman said, “So be it.” After bowing to him and receiving his permission, she walked clockwise around him. (BORI: 1-113-43)
[PV-KDV:01_018_137]
Fire is never sated with firewood, the great ocean with rivers, Death with all creatures, or fair-eyed women with men. (KUMB: 1-128-8)
[PV-SVO:01_018_138]
Such is women’s desire for each and every man: for them, no man is ever forbidden, O fair-smiling woman. (KUMB: 1-128-9)
[PV-SVO:01_018_139]
For some women, when they see a man here in private—even a son, a grandson, or one who supports them—the vagina then becomes moist. (KUMB: 1-128-10)
[PV-SVO:01_018_140]
This is natural to women and is not caused by any particular circumstance, fair lady. (KUMB: 1-128-11)
[PV-SVO:01_018_141]
Śvetaketu’s father, O goddess, undertook severe austerities. In summer he practiced the austerity of the five fires, and during the rainy season he remained under the open sky. (KUMB: 1-128-15)
[PV-SVO:01_018_142]
In winter, the great ascetic remained in the water with his wife. Uddālaka, practicing austerities and steadfast in his observances… (KUMB: 1-128-16)
[PV-SVO:01_018_143]
His son Shvetaketu attended upon him. Then a certain Brahmin, covered with wrinkles and gray hair, arrived. (KUMB: 1-128-17)
[PV-SVO:01_018_144]
As soon as he saw him, the sage was delighted and honored him according to prescribed custom, with a welcome, water for washing his feet, and gentle words, O Bharata. (KUMB: 1-128-18)
[PV-SVO:01_018_145]
He also honored him with greens, roots, fruits, and other forest fare. Afflicted by hunger, thirst, and fatigue, and honored by the great seer… (KUMB: 1-128-19)
[PV-SVO:01_018_146]
Then, after resting, the Brahmin approached the sage and asked him, “O great sage Uddālaka, tell me the truth, not a falsehood.” (KUMB: 1-128-20)
[PV-SVO:01_018_147]
This young sage’s son is exceptionally handsome. I believe he is your son; you have indeed fulfilled your purpose. Tell me about him. (KUMB: 1-128-21)
[PV-SVO:01_018_148]
My wife, O greatly wise one, is known as Kuśika’s daughter. She follows me alone and is ever devoted to me. (KUMB: 1-128-22)
[PV-SVO:01_018_149]
Among wives, she is like Arundhati, her breasts wasted by austerity. She bore Śvetaketu, my son, a great ascetic. (KUMB: 1-128-23)
[PV-SVO:01_018_150]
Learned in the Vedas and Vedangas, O Brahmin, devoted to my commands, knowledgeable about the world, renowned in all the worlds, truthful, and compassionate. (KUMB: 1-128-24)
[PV-SVO:01_018_151]
I am sonless and in need of a wife; I am old and dim-sighted. I have not been freed from my debt to the ancestors, for I have never before married. (KUMB: 1-128-25)
[PV-SVO:01_018_152]
Your wife, endowed with noble birth and character, is the fire-stick for procreation. She is my equal in lineage, so I am taking her; forgive me. (KUMB: 1-128-26)
[PV-SVO:01_018_153]
Having said this, the doe-eyed woman clad in bark cloth and black antelope skin—the witless man, supported by a staff, his limbs feeble and his eyesight dim… (KUMB: 1-128-27)
[PV-SVO:01_018_154]
her, unable to attend to her own affairs and utterly unaware of herself—the Brahmin... (KUMB: 1-128-28)
[PV-SVO:01_018_155]
For Shvetaketu, his vigor blazing through austerity, could not bear it. (KUMB: 1-128-30)
[PV-SVO:01_018_156]
Taking hold of his mother’s hand, Shvetaketu said, “Wretched Brahmin, let go of my devoted mother!” (KUMB: 1-128-31)
[PV-SVO:01_018_157]
My father himself is a Brahmarshi, patient and supreme among knowers of Brahman. Though capable of both cursing and granting favor, that man of great vows remains silent. (KUMB: 1-128-32)
[PV-SVO:01_018_158]
His self-controlled wife—especially as she is my mother—devoted to her husband, advanced in austerity, and adorned with virtuous conduct… (KUMB: 1-128-33)
[PV-SVO:01_018_159]
O Brahmin, be sure to release her, for she is like a mother to you. (KUMB: 1-128-34)
[PV-SVO:01_018_160]
To the man who, having said this, repeatedly pleaded, “Release her,” the Brahmin replied, O king, with these hesitant words: (KUMB: 1-128-35)
[PV-SVO:01_018_161]
O Shvetaketu, I long for offspring. I am old and my sight is failing. Your father has been freed from his debt through you, his son, O Kashyapa. (KUMB: 1-128-36)
[PV-SVO:01_018_162]
I am not free of my debt. I am old and have lost all desire. Who will give me his daughter, a maiden who has reached maturity? (KUMB: 1-128-37)
[PV-SVO:01_018_163]
Give up this wife, the fire-stick for procreation, O great ascetic. Content with a single child, I give you your mother. (KUMB: 1-128-38)
[PV-SVO:01_018_164]
Thus addressed, Shvetaketu became angry out of shame. (KUMB: 1-128-39)
[PV-SVO:01_018_165]
Likewise, they were never negligent in household affairs. (KUMB: 1-128-41)
[PV-SVO:01_018_166]
But when their fertile season arrived, they did not then avoid their husband. (KUMB: 1-128-42)
[PV-SVO:01_018_167]
She too acted in this way, wishing to please her husband. (KUMB: 1-128-51; NILA: 01.122.023)
[PV-SVO:01_018_168]
This is a very great transgression for women, O best of the Bharatas: that a husband, who ought to be pleased, should instead please his wife, O bull among Kshatriyas. And hear these pleasing words of mine, O mighty-armed one. (KUMB: 1-128-61)
[PV-SVO:01_018_169]
By the favor of each one, O queen, you will have a son. (KUMB: 1-128-66; NILA: 01.122.037)
[PV-SVO:01_018_170]
That greatly renowned man gave me a spell, O great king. A god summoned by it will grant a godlike son who, O hero, will dispel the grief caused by your childlessness. (KUMB: 1-128-68)
[PV-SVO:01_018_171]
O you who desire offspring, let it be thus, so that I may have a child: either a virtuous Brahmin devoted to the welfare of all beings… (KUMB: 1-129-1)
[PV-SVO:01_018_172]
Grant me permission—may all be well with you—for a woman’s husband is her deity. Whichever god or Brahmin you name, O knower of dharma… (KUMB: 1-129-2)
[PV-SVO:01_018_173]
I shall do as you have directed, O hero, O mighty-armed one. A son may be obtained from a god at once, but from a Brahmin only after some time. (KUMB: 1-129-3)
[PV-SVO:01_018_174]
I am blessed and favored, for you are the preserver of our lineage. Homage to that great seer who granted you this boon. (KUMB: 1-129-5)
[PV-SVO:01_018_175]
Therefore, for the sake of obtaining sons and continuing my own line, you… (KUMB: 1-129-6)
[PV-SVO:01_018_176]
With the permission of the illustrious Pandu, descendant of Bharata, she then resolved, O great king, to invoke Dharma. (KUMB: 1-129-7क्ष्)
[PV-SVO:01_018_177]
For one who knows dharma, having dharma as its beginning, middle, and end… (KUMB: 1-129-9)
[PV-SVO:01_018_178]
Offspring, which increases fame and renown, is desired throughout the worlds. (KUMB: 1-129-10)
[PV-SVO:01_018_179]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_180]
Janamejaya, when Gandhari had been pregnant for a year, Kunti invoked the unfailing Dharma in order to conceive a child. (BORI: 1-114-1)
[PV-OTH:01_018_181]
The goddess hastily made an offering to Dharma and duly recited the invocation that Durvasas had given her long before. (BORI: 1-114-2)
[PV-KDV:01_018_182]
Uniting with Dharma, who had assumed a form through his yogic power, the lovely woman obtained a son who was the best of all living beings. (BORI: 1-114-3)
[PV-KDV:01_018_183]
When the moon was conjoined with the asterism sacred to Indra, during the eighth muhūrta, Abhijit, at midday when the sun had reached the meridian, on an auspicious and highly honored lunar day... (BORI: 1-114-4)
[PV-KDV:01_018_184]
At the appointed time, Kunti gave birth to a son destined for abundant fame. As soon as that son was born, a bodiless voice declared: (BORI: 1-114-5)
[PV-KDV:01_018_185]
He will undoubtedly be the foremost of those who uphold dharma. Known as Yudhishthira, he will be Pandu’s firstborn son. (BORI: 1-114-6)
[PV-KDV:01_018_186]
He will become a renowned king, famed throughout the three worlds and endowed with glory, splendor, and virtuous conduct. (BORI: 1-114-7)
[PV-KDV:01_018_187]
Having obtained that righteous son, Pandu again said to her, “They say that the warrior class is preeminent in strength; choose a son preeminent in strength.” (BORI: 1-114-8)
[PV-KDV:01_018_188]
Then, thus addressed by her husband, she invoked Vāyu himself. From him was born the mighty-armed Bhīma, a man of formidable prowess. (BORI: 1-114-9)
[PV-KDV:01_018_189]
A voice also proclaimed of him, born immensely strong and invincible, “This child is the foremost of all strong men,” O Bharata. (BORI: 1-114-10)
[PV-KDV:01_018_190]
And this most astonishing thing happened when Vṛkodara had just been born: falling from his mother’s lap, he shattered a rock with his limbs. (BORI: 1-114-11)
[PV-KDV:01_018_191]
Kunti, alarmed by fear of a tiger, is said to have sprung up suddenly, unaware that Vrikodara lay fast asleep on her lap. (BORI: 1-114-12)
[PV-KDV:01_018_192]
Then the boy, solid as a thunderbolt, fell upon the mountain. As he fell, his limbs shattered the rock into a hundred pieces. Seeing the rock pulverized, Pandu was astonished. (BORI: 1-114-13)
[PV-KDV:01_018_193]
On the very day that Bhima was born, O best of the Bharatas, Duryodhana too was born, O lord of the earth. (BORI: 1-114-14)
[PV-OTH:01_018_194]
After Vṛkodara was born, Pāṇḍu reflected again: “How might I have an excellent son, the foremost in the world?” (BORI: 1-114-15)
[PV-KDV:01_018_195]
This world rests upon both fate and human effort; of these, fate is secured through a rite performed at the proper time. (BORI: 1-114-16)
[PV-KDV:01_018_196]
We have heard that Indra, king of the gods, is foremost (BORI: 1-114-17A)
[PV-KDV:01_018_197]
possessed of immeasurable strength and energy, mighty and of boundless splendor. (BORI: 1-114-17B)
[PV-PAX:01_018_198]
By pleasing him through austerity, I shall obtain a mighty son. The son he gives me will be preeminent. Therefore, in deed, thought, and speech, I shall undertake great austerity. (BORI: 1-114-18)
[PV-PAX:01_018_199]
Then the mighty Kaurava Pandu, after consulting the great seers, prescribed for Kunti an auspicious year-long vow. (BORI: 1-114-19)
[PV-PAX:01_018_200]
The mighty-armed man himself stood on one foot and undertook severe austerities with perfect concentration. (BORI: 1-114-20)
[PV-PAX:01_018_201]
Wishing to propitiate that god, the lord of the gods, the righteous man turned with the sun, O Bharata. (BORI: 1-114-21)
[PV-PAX:01_018_202]
After a long time, Vasava replied to him, “I shall give you a son renowned throughout the three worlds.” (BORI: 1-114-22)
[PV-PAX:01_018_203]
I shall give you an eminent son who will further the interests of the gods, the Brahmins, and his friends, and who will destroy all his enemies. (BORI: 1-114-23)
[PV-PAX:01_018_204]
Thus addressed by the great Indra, the righteous Kuru king spoke to Kunti, recalling the lord of the gods’ words: (BORI: 1-114-24)
[PV-PAX:01_018_205]
Wise in statecraft, great-souled, radiant as the sun, unassailable, energetic, and extraordinarily wondrous in appearance… (BORI: 1-114-25)
[PV-PAX:01_018_206]
Bear a son, fair-hipped one, a repository of Kshatriya splendor. (BORI: 1-114-26A)
[PV-KDV:01_018_207]
Indra’s favor has been secured; invoke him, bright-smiling one. (BORI: 1-114-26B)
[PV-PAX:01_018_208]
Thus addressed, the illustrious woman invoked Śakra. Then the lord of the gods came and fathered Arjuna. (BORI: 1-114-27)
[PV-KDV:01_018_209]
As soon as the prince was born, a bodiless voice, deep and mighty in its resonance, rang through the heavens and spoke: (BORI: 1-114-28)
[PV-KDV:01_018_210]
O Kunti, he will equal Kartavirya and rival Shibi in valor. Invincible like Shakra in battle, he will spread your fame. (BORI: 1-114-29)
[PV-PAX:01_018_211]
Just as Aditi’s joy was increased by Vishnu, so Arjuna, Vishnu’s equal, will increase your joy. (BORI: 1-114-30)
[PV-PAX:01_018_212]
After bringing the Madras under his sway, as well as the Kurus together with the Kekayas, the Cedis, Kasis, and Karushas, he will firmly establish the glory of the Kurus. (BORI: 1-114-31)
[PV-PAX:01_018_213]
Through the might of his arms, the bearer of offerings will attain supreme satisfaction in the Khandava Forest from the fat of all creatures. (BORI: 1-114-32)
[PV-PAX:01_018_214]
After conquering chieftains and kings, this mighty hero, (BORI: 1-114-33A)
[PV-KDV:01_018_215]
together with his brothers, will perform three sacrifices. (BORI: 1-114-33B)
[PV-PAX:01_018_216]
O Kunti, equal to Jamadagni’s son and matching Vishnu in valor, he will be the foremost of mighty heroes and remain undefeated. (BORI: 1-114-34)
[PV-PAX:01_018_217]
He will also obtain all the celestial weapons, (BORI: 1-114-35A)
[PV-KDV:01_018_218]
and this bull among men will recover the prosperity that has been lost. (BORI: 1-114-35B)
[PV-PAX:01_018_219]
At the birth of Kunti’s son, Vayu uttered this most wondrous proclamation from the sky, and Kunti heard it. (BORI: 1-114-36)
[PV-PAX:01_018_220]
On hearing that proclamation uttered aloud, the ascetics dwelling on Śataśṛṅga were filled with supreme joy. (BORI: 1-114-37)
[PV-PAX:01_018_221]
Likewise among the divine seers and the heaven-dwellers, including Indra; and in the sky there arose the tumultuous sound of drums. (BORI: 1-114-38)
[PV-PAX:01_018_222]
A mighty roar arose amid showers of flowers, and the hosts of gods gathered together and honored Partha. (BORI: 1-114-39)
[PV-PAX:01_018_223]
The descendants of Kadru and Vinata, the Gandharvas and Apsarases, all the lords of creatures, and the seven great seers… (BORI: 1-114-40)
[PV-PAX:01_018_224]
Bharadvaja, Kashyapa, Gautama, Vishvamitra, Jamadagni, and Vasishtha—and the blessed Atri, who rose when the sun had disappeared—also came there. (BORI: 1-114-41)
[PV-PAX:01_018_225]
Marichi and Angiras, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu, Daksha Prajapati, and likewise the Gandharvas and Apsarases… (BORI: 1-114-42)
[PV-PAX:01_018_226]
Clad in celestial garlands and garments and adorned with every ornament, the Apsarases sang in praise of Bibhatsu and danced before him, while the glorious Tumburu sang together with the Gandharvas. (BORI: 1-114-43)
[PV-PAX:01_018_227]
Bhimasena and Ugrasena, Urnayus and Anagha, Gopati and Dhritarashtra, and Suryavarchas as the seventh... (BORI: 1-114-44)
[PV-PAX:01_018_228]
Yugapa, Trinapa, Karshni, Nandi, and Chitraratha as well; Shalishiras was the thirteenth and Parjanya the fourteenth. (BORI: 1-114-45)
[PV-PAX:01_018_229]
Kali is the fifteenth here, and Narada the sixteenth; Sadva, Brihadva, Brihaka, and the illustrious Karala… (BORI: 1-114-46)
[PV-PAX:01_018_230]
Brahmacārī, Bahuguṇa, and the renowned Suparṇa, as well as Viśvāvasu, Bhumanyu, and Sucandra, the tenth. (BORI: 1-114-47)
[PV-PAX:01_018_231]
And Hāhā and Hūhū, renowned for the sweetness of their singing—these divine Gandharvas sang there in honor of the bull among men. (BORI: 1-114-48)
[PV-PAX:01_018_232]
Likewise, the delighted Apsarases, adorned with every ornament, danced and sang—those illustrious, wide-eyed women. (BORI: 1-114-49)
[PV-PAX:01_018_233]
Anūnā, Anavadyā, Priyamukhyā, Guṇāvarā, Adrikā, Sācī, Miśrakeśī, and Alambusā… (BORI: 1-114-50)
[PV-PAX:01_018_234]
Marīci, Śicukā, Vidyutparṇā, Tilottamā, Agnikā, Lakṣaṇā, Kṣemā, Devī, Rambhā, and Manoramā… (BORI: 1-114-51)
[PV-PAX:01_018_235]
Asitā, Subāhu, Supriyā, Suvapus, Puṇḍarīkā, Sugandhā, Surathā, and Pramāthinī … (BORI: 1-114-52)
[PV-PAX:01_018_236]
Kāmyā and Śāradvatī also danced there in groups. Menakā, Sahajanyā, Parṇikā, and Puñjikasthalā… (BORI: 1-114-53)
[PV-PAX:01_018_237]
Kratusthala, Ghritachi, Vishvachi, and Purvachitti, as well as the one renowned as Umlocha and Pramlocha—these made ten; with Urvashi as the eleventh, these wide-eyed women sang. (BORI: 1-114-54)
[PV-PAX:01_018_238]
Dhātṛ, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuṇa, Aṃśa, Bhaga, Indra, Vivasvat, Pūṣan, Tvaṣṭṛ, and Savitṛ... (BORI: 1-114-55)
[PV-PAX:01_018_239]
and Parjanya and Vishnu—the fire-radiant Adityas—standing in the sky and magnifying the Pandava’s glory. (BORI: 1-114-56)
[PV-PAX:01_018_240]
Mṛgavyādha, Śarva, the illustrious Nirṛti, Ajaikapād, Ahirbudhnya, and Pinākin, the scorcher of foes... (BORI: 1-114-57)
[PV-PAX:01_018_241]
Dahana, Ishvara, Kapalin, Sthanu, and the blessed Bhava, O lord of the people—the Rudras took their places there. (BORI: 1-114-58)
[PV-PAX:01_018_242]
The two Ashvins, the eight Vasus, the mighty Maruts, the Vishvedevas, and the Sadhyas were also assembled there. (BORI: 1-114-59)
[PV-PAX:01_018_243]
Karkotaka, Shesha, Vasuki the serpent, Kacchapa, Apakunda, and Takshaka the great serpent... (BORI: 1-114-60)
[PV-PAX:01_018_244]
Endowed with splendor, fiercely wrathful, and immensely powerful, they came. These and many other Nagas were assembled there. (BORI: 1-114-61)
[PV-PAX:01_018_245]
The sons of Vinata—Tarkshya, Arishtanemi, Garuda, Asitadhvaja, Aruna, and Aruni—were also present. (BORI: 1-114-62)
[PV-PAX:01_018_246]
Seeing that great marvel, the foremost sages were astonished, and from then on they treated the Pandavas with even greater affection. (BORI: 1-114-63)
[PV-PAX:01_018_247]
But the illustrious Pandu, longing for sons, urged the lovely-limbed Kunti once again. Kunti then said to him: (BORI: 1-114-64)
[PV-KDV:01_018_248]
They say that even in adversity a woman should not bear a fourth child. Beyond that she would be promiscuous, and with a fifth she would become a prostitute. (BORI: 1-114-65)
[PV-KDV:01_018_249]
Since you know this rule, which is discernible by reason, how can you speak to me as though heedlessly transgressing it for the sake of offspring? (BORI: 1-114-66)
[PV-KDV:01_018_250]
Then the god Dharma came through the power of the mantra, in a celestial chariot radiant as the sun, to where Kunti was waiting. (KUMB: 1-129-16; NILA: 01.123.003)
[PV-SVO:01_018_251]
Then, smiling, you should say to her, “Kunti, what shall I give you?” Smiling at him in turn, she said, “Give me a son…” (KUMB: 1-129-17; NILA: 01.123.004)
[PV-SVO:01_018_252]
He will be a valiant king on earth, true to his word. (KUMB: 1-129-23; NILA: 01.123.008)
[PV-SVO:01_018_253]
Then Vāyu, immensely powerful and mounted on a deer, came to her. “What shall I give you today, Kuntī? Tell me what is in your heart.” (NILA: 01.123.012)
[PV-SVO:01_018_254]
Bashfully, she smiled and said, “Best of the gods, give me a strong, huge-bodied son who will crush all pride.” (NILA: 01.123.013)
[PV-SVO:01_018_255]
He will slay both nonhuman and human foes in battle. (KUMB: 1-132-5; NILA: 01.123.024)
[PV-SVO:01_018_256]
causing grief to enemies and delight to all kinsmen... (KUMB: 1-132-10; NILA: 01.123.029)
[PV-SVO:01_018_257]
The outcome for you, O blessed lady, is that the lord of the hosts of gods, pleased with you... (KUMB: 1-132-12; NILA: 01.123.031)
[PV-SVO:01_018_258]
He wishes to grant you a son just as you have envisioned—one who will perform superhuman deeds, win renown, and subdue his enemies. (KUMB: 1-132-13; NILA: 01.123.032)
[PV-SVO:01_018_259]
While all beings and the residents of the hermitage listened, he addressed Kunti of the pure smile and spoke these words distinctly: (KUMB: 1-132-19; NILA: 01.123.037)
[PV-SVO:01_018_260]
In battle, he will please the great god Śaṅkara and, when the god is pleased, obtain from him the weapon called Pāśupata. (KUMB: 1-132-26; NILA: 01.123.044)
[PV-SVO:01_018_261]
At Shakra’s command, your mighty-armed son will slay the Daityas called the Nivatakavachas, enemies of the gods. (KUMB: 1-132-27; NILA: 01.123.045)
[PV-SVO:01_018_262]
Likewise, the great seers also recited prayers there on every side. (KUMB: 1-132-36; NILA: 01.123.054)
[PV-SVO:01_018_263]
The great seers, perfected through austerities, saw all those hosts of gods seated atop mountain-like celestial chariots, but other people did not. (KUMB: 1-132-57; NILA: 01.123.074)
[PV-SVO:01_018_264]
Knowing Dharma to be foremost, she brought him under her sway. Summoned by Kunti according to the prescribed rule, he who is revered by all beings… (KUMB: 1-129-15)
[PV-SVO:01_018_265]
The blessed lord Dharma appeared so that Pandu might have offspring. (KUMB: 1-129-17)
[PV-SVO:01_018_266]
In that forest abounding in game, on Śataśṛṅga, the finest of mountains, the greatly blessed Kuntī approached Dharma for Pāṇḍu’s sake. (KUMB: 1-129-18)
[PV-SVO:01_018_267]
At the proper time in her cycle, purified by bathing and dressed in white, the illustrious, shapely-hipped woman of noble vows went to bed with Dharma. (KUMB: 1-129-19)
[PV-SVO:01_018_268]
Then, approaching Kunti, he earnestly commanded her, O Bharata: “Invoke Vayu, for that god is stronger.” (KUMB: 1-129-45)
[PV-SVO:01_018_269]
The Ashvamedha is the foremost of sacrifices, the sun the foremost of lights, the Brahmin the foremost of bipeds, and Marut the foremost of gods. (KUMB: 1-129-46)
[PV-SVO:01_018_270]
O lovely woman, duly invoke Maruta, the foremost of the Maruts, praised by all living beings, so that you may have a son. (KUMB: 1-129-47)
[PV-SVO:01_018_271]
The son he gives us will be endowed with vital strength among men, fair-hipped woman, for kings are preeminent in strength. (KUMB: 1-129-48)
[PV-SVO:01_018_272]
Then, with a second offering, once again in the manner he had prescribed... (KUMB: 1-129-49)
[PV-SVO:01_018_273]
Observing those same restraints, she recited the group of mantras. Then Vāyu came and said, “What shall I do?” (KUMB: 1-129-50)
[PV-SVO:01_018_274]
Then Kunti, overcome with shyness, asked for a son of immense strength. Saying, “So be it,” Vayu embraced her and returned to heaven. (KUMB: 1-129-51)
[PV-SVO:01_018_275]
The moment the boy was born, all the rulers of the world urinated and were overcome with distress; their mounts collapsed and shed tears. (KUMB: 1-129-53; KUMB: 1-129-54)
[PV-SVO:01_018_276]
Just as a rising wind can shake the earth, so Bhima, sturdy of limb, was truly of fearsome prowess. (KUMB: 1-129-55)
[PV-SVO:01_018_277]
Kunti went with her son to a lovely lake. On the tenth day, after bathing and taking up her son, the Yadava woman… (KUMB: 1-129-57)
[PV-SVO:01_018_278]
Pṛthā left the hermitage to worship the deities. As she was walking near the mountain, O best of the Bharatas, then... (KUMB: 1-129-58)
[PV-SVO:01_018_279]
A huge tiger emerged from a mountain cave, intent on killing. As it charged at him, he drew his excellent bow and… (KUMB: 1-129-59)
[PV-SVO:01_018_280]
Pandu, whose valor equaled that of the gods, pierced it with three arrows as it filled the mountain cave with a mighty roar. (KUMB: 1-129-60)
[PV-SVO:01_018_281]
Seeing it, Kunti then wished in fear to climb the mountain; but in her fright her son fell from her lap, O bull of the Bharatas. (KUMB: 1-129-61)
[PV-SVO:01_018_282]
As she stood atop the mountain, the infant fell to the ground below. He shattered the rock like a thunderbolt hurled by Indra. (KUMB: 1-129-62)
[PV-SVO:01_018_283]
Then, out of love for his son, Pandu rushed to the mountainside. (KUMB: 1-129-63)
[PV-SVO:01_018_284]
But at Bhima’s birth, that tiger-like warrior saw a tiger on a mountain peak, roaring loudly. (KUMB: 1-129-64; KUMB: 1-129-65)
[PV-SVO:01_018_285]
To protect his wife and son, the delight of the Kurus always carried bow and arrows in his hands. (KUMB: 1-129-65; KUMB: 1-129-66)
[PV-SVO:01_018_286]
When the moon was conjoined with Magha, Jupiter had risen in Leo, and the sun stood at midday, on the auspicious thirteenth lunar day, at the hour sacred to the ancestors, Kunti gave birth to the steadfast Bhima. (KUMB: 1-129-66; KUMB: 1-129-67)
[PV-SVO:01_018_287]
He was then born by day in the month of Phalguna, under both the Uttara and Purva Phalgunis; therefore he was known as Phalguna. (KUMB: 1-132-17)
[PV-SVO:01_018_288]
bringing joy to all beings. While she was in confinement after childbirth... (KUMB: 1-132-18)
[PV-SVO:01_018_289]
With a joyful heart, Pandu worshipped the gods and others. Worshipped by Pandu, the gods replied to that best of men: (KUMB: 1-132-59)
[PV-SVO:01_018_290]
For Dharma himself has manifested here through the favor of the gods, and this Bhima is Matarishvan himself—mighty and a crusher of foes. (KUMB: 1-132-60)
[PV-SVO:01_018_291]
Through Śatakratu’s favor, Indra himself has been born in person. Since you are the father of gods, there is surely no one more blessed than you. (KUMB: 1-132-61)
[PV-SVO:01_018_292]
Freed from your debt to the ancestors, you will attain heaven and share in its blessings.” Having spoken thus, all the gods departed the way they had come. (KUMB: 1-132-62)
[PV-SVO:01_018_293]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_294]
After Kunti’s sons and Dhritarashtra’s sons had been born (BORI: 1-115-1A)
[PV-OTH:01_018_295]
The daughter of the king of Madra spoke privately to Pandu: (BORI: 1-115-1B)
[PV-KDV:01_018_296]
I feel no anguish over your incapacity, O scorcher of foes, nor over always having remained in an inferior position though worthy of the highest, O sinless one... (BORI: 1-115-2)
[PV-KDV:01_018_297]
Likewise, O king, when I heard that Gandhari had borne a hundred sons, I did not feel such sorrow, O delight of the Kurus. (BORI: 1-115-3)
[PV-OTH:01_018_298]
But this is my great sorrow: though Kunti and I are equals, I am childless. Fortunately, my husband now has offspring through Kunti. (BORI: 1-115-4)
[PV-KDV:01_018_299]
If Kunti, the king’s daughter, would provide me with offspring, it would be a favor to me and would also be to your benefit. (BORI: 1-115-5)
[PV-KDV:01_018_300]
For because she is my co-wife, I feel inhibited from speaking to Kunti's daughter. But if you are pleased with me, urge her yourself. (BORI: 1-115-6)
[PV-KDV:01_018_301]
Pāṇḍu said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_302]
The same thought has always been on my mind, Madri, but I could not bring myself to speak to you, uncertain whether you would welcome it or not. (BORI: 1-115-7)
[PV-KDV:01_018_303]
But now that I know your wish, I shall make the effort from this point on. I believe that, when I speak to her, she will surely heed my words. (BORI: 1-115-8)
[PV-KDV:01_018_304]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_018_305]
Then, when they were alone, Pandu again said this to Kunti: “Continue my lineage, and do what is pleasing to the world—” (BORI: 1-115-9)
[PV-KDV:01_018_306]
To ensure that I, our ancestors, and you yourself are not left without descendants to offer the funeral oblation, and for my sake, blessed lady, perform this supremely good deed. (BORI: 1-115-10)
[PV-KDV:01_018_307]
And for the sake of fame, undertake this extremely difficult deed. After attaining sovereignty, Indra too, seeking fame, performed sacrifices. (BORI: 1-115-11)
[PV-OTH:01_018_308]
Likewise, O radiant lady, Brahmins versed in sacred formulas undertake extremely difficult austerities and approach teachers for the sake of fame. (BORI: 1-115-12)
[PV-OTH:01_018_309]
Likewise, all royal seers and Brahmins rich in austerity performed arduous deeds of every kind for the sake of renown. (BORI: 1-115-13)
[PV-OTH:01_018_310]
Therefore, blameless woman, rescue this Mādrī as though in a boat; by granting her a share in offspring, attain the highest renown. (BORI: 1-115-14)
[PV-KDV:01_018_311]
Thus addressed, she said to Madri, “Think of a deity just once. From him you will undoubtedly have a child resembling him.” (BORI: 1-115-15)
[PV-KDV:01_018_312]
Then Madri, after due consideration, fixed her mind on the Ashvins. They came and fathered twin sons upon her. (BORI: 1-115-16)
[PV-KDV:01_018_313]
Nakula and Sahadeva, unequalled in beauty on earth… A disembodied voice likewise addressed the twins: (BORI: 1-115-17)
[PV-KDV:01_018_314]
Endowed with beauty, strength, and virtue, these two greatly outshine other men in splendor and in their abundance of beauty and wealth. (BORI: 1-115-18)
[PV-OTH:01_018_315]
The inhabitants of Shatashringa gave them names with devotion, ritual observances, and blessings, O lord of the people. (BORI: 1-115-19)
[PV-KDV:01_018_316]
They called the eldest Yudhishthira, the middle one Bhimasena, and the third Arjuna, thus naming Kunti’s sons. (BORI: 1-115-20)
[PV-KDV:01_018_317]
Those delighted Brahmins called the elder of Mādrī’s sons Nakula and the other Sahadeva. Although those foremost Kurus were born at one-year intervals… (BORI: 1-115-21)
[PV-KDV:01_018_318]
Then Pandu again urged Kunti on Madri’s behalf. O king, the ever-virtuous Pritha, addressed by him in private, said to him: (BORI: 1-115-22)
[PV-KDV:01_018_319]
Instructed only once, she obtained a pair; in this way she has deceived me. (BORI: 1-115-23A)
[PV-KDV:01_018_320]
I fear being outdone by her—such is the way of women. (BORI: 1-115-23B)
[PV-OTH:01_018_321]
Fool that I was, I did not know that invoking a pair would yield a double result. (BORI: 1-115-24A)
[PV-OTH:01_018_322]
Therefore you must not ask this of me again; let this be the boon you grant me. (BORI: 1-115-24B)
[PV-KDV:01_018_323]
Thus were born Pandu’s five mighty sons, begotten by the gods—renowned men who would increase the Kuru lineage. (BORI: 1-115-25)
[PV-OTH:01_018_324]
Endowed with auspicious marks and as pleasing to behold as the moon, proud as lions and mighty archers, striding with the valor of lions, lion-necked, those princes grew in might like the gods. (BORI: 1-115-26)
[PV-OTH:01_018_325]
As they grew up there on the sacred Himalayan mountain, they inspired wonder among the great seers who had assembled. (BORI: 1-115-27)
[PV-KDV:01_018_326]