Section LXXII - Sakuntala: The Daughter of Kanva - Story from Mahabharata
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LXXII including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
Menaka was commanded by Sakra to distract the sage Visvamitra with her beauty as he performed penances, leading to the birth of their daughter Sakuntala. Menaka left the newborn Sakuntala in the wilderness, where she was protected by vultures until being found and adopted by Kanva. Sakuntala, unaware of her true parentage, considers Kanva to be her father. This revelation of her birth was narrated by Sakuntala to King Dushyanta, revealing her true origins and her connection to the sage Visvamitra.
Full English translation:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section LXXII - Sakuntala: The Daughter of Kanva - Story from Mahabharata, have a look at the following articles:
Section LXXII, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section LXXII:
Who is Sakuntala's real father according to the story?
Sakuntala's real father is Visvamitra, as revealed by Kanva in the story.
Why did Menaka leave Sakuntala on the riverbank?
Menaka left Sakuntala on the riverbank as she had to return to her celestial duties.
How did Sakuntala get her name?
Sakuntala got her name because she was protected by birds (Sakuntas) in the wilderness.
Daily life: Sakuntala: The Daughter of Kanva - Story from Mahabharata:
The story of Sakuntala, as narrated above, reveals a tapestry of human emotions and values, including love, responsibility, and the essence of parenthood beyond biological connections. At its core, it teaches the importance of kindness, protection, and accepting responsibility for others' wellbeing. From this narrative, we can draw lessons on the power of compassion and the significance of relationships formed not by blood, but by choices and actions. Vishwamitra and Menaka's encounter, leading to the birth of Sakuntala, and her subsequent upbringing by Kanva, illustrate how unexpected events can shape lives and form enduring bonds.
In everyday life, this story inspires us to look beyond conventional definitions of family and relationships. It encourages offering support and love to those in need, recognizing that acts of kindness can forge deep connections. By embodying the virtues of protection and care demonstrated by the vultures and Kanva, individuals can impact the lives of others positively. This narrative invites us to embrace a broader sense of community and responsibility, highlighting that anyone can become a figure of guidance and nourishment, akin to a parent, through their actions and intentions.
Thus, by applying the essence of this tale, individuals are encouraged to contribute positively to the lives of those around them, promoting a culture of empathy and mutual support. Such actions not only enhance the lives of others but also enrich the lives of those who give, creating a more compassionate and connected society.