Significance of Shikhandi

In Jainism, Shikhandi is characterized as a weakling, lacking in strength and assertiveness. Contrarily, in the Purana, Shikhandi is portrayed as a pivotal warrior in the battle against Bhishma. He is notably a prince of Pancalas, originally born female, who is destined to slay Bhishma and possesses incredible celestial weapons. Shikhandi holds a crucial role among the Pandavas, marked by a vow that protects him from harm by Bhishma during their confrontation in battle.

Synonyms: Legend, Myth, Tale, Fable, Anecdote

In Dutch: Shikhandi; In Finnish: Shikhandi; In Spanish: Shikhandi

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Shikhandi'

Hinduism Books

Shikhandi in Hinduism is a transformative character, originally female, pivotal in defeating Bhishma, influencing battle strategies for the Pandavas, and embodying themes of gender and destiny within the epic narrative.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Another warrior in the battle, notable for his confrontation with Drona's son and his swift actions.[1] (2) A character considered important in the battle, whose identity plays a crucial role in the conflict with Bhishma.[2] (3) A warrior ally of the Pandavas known for having unique qualities and competencies in battle.[3] (4) The child of King Drupada, who was suspected to be a daughter, raising concerns for both Drupada and his wife in the face of conflict.[4] (5) The prince of Pancalas, who was formerly a woman and is not to be harmed by Bhishma in battle due to a vow.[5]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) He wears a peacock feather.[6]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Jain concept of 'Shikhandi'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Shikhandi symbolizes a "weakling," representing an individual characterized by a lack of strength and assertiveness, reflecting the philosophical nuances regarding personal qualities and virtues within the faith.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) Weakling; describing someone lacking strength or assertiveness.[7]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Shikhandi in local and regional sources

History Books

Shikhandi, in this context, represents a small thick stick utilized as a substitute for traditional rhythmic instruments, enhancing performance dynamics by creating beats, thus integrating into the essence of musical expression.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A small thick stick used in place of traditional rhythmic instruments for creating beats during performances.[8]