Section CLVII [summary]
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLVII 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:
Hidimva expresses her love for Bhima and asks for his hand in marriage, promising to protect and serve him faithfully. Yudhishthira agrees to Bhima's temporary marriage to Hidimva, with the condition that Bhima returns every night. Bhima and Hidimva spend time together in various picturesque locations, and Hidimva eventually conceives a son named Ghatotkacha, who possesses immense strength and prowess and becomes a favorite of the Pandavas.
Hidimva fulfills her promise and leaves with her son, Ghatotkacha, after bidding farewell to the Pandavas. Ghatotkacha grows up quickly and becomes a skilled warrior, known for his formidable abilities in combat. Indra creates Ghatotkacha to be a rival to Karna in battle, equipped to counter Karna's deadly dart given to him by Indra. Ghatotkacha pledges to come to his father, Bhima, whenever needed for help and support, demonstrating his loyalty to his family. The story highlights the bond between Ghatotkacha and the Pandavas, showing the strength and unity within the family.
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 CLVII, have a look at the following articles:
Section CLVII, 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 Section CLVII:
What was the reason behind Bhima marrying Hidimva?
Bhima married Hidimva as she chose him as her husband and he promised to stay with her until she had a son.
Who was Ghatotkacha and how did he come into being?
Ghatotkacha was the mighty son born to Bhima and Hidimva, with superhuman strength and prowess.
What was the special ability of Rakshasa women regarding childbirth?
Rakshasa women give birth the same day they conceive and can change forms at will.
What was Ghatotkacha's role in the epic war, Mahabharata?
Ghatotkacha was created by Indra as a formidable opponent for Karna in the war.
Mahabharata Section CLVII in daily life:
From this captivating narrative about the union between Bhima and Hidimva, and the birth of their mighty son, Ghatotkacha, we can draw several profound lessons applicable to our daily lives. The story, at its core, encapsulates themes of love, duty, acceptance, and the strength of character, woven into the fantastical events of a bygone era.
The tale begins with skepticism and precaution, reflective of how we often face the unknown in our lives – with a mixture of fear and caution. Bhima, ready to defend his family from perceived danger, is reminded by Yudhishthira of the higher duty towards virtue and compassion, teaching us the importance of not letting anger or fear dictate our actions towards others.
Hidimva’s plea to Kunti and her subsequent relationship with Bhima highlight the power of love and sacrifice, demonstrating that true affection can transcend boundaries, be they societal norms or personal hardships. This teaches us to be open-hearted and open-minded, valuing individuals for their essence rather than their background or appearance. Their union, resulting in the birth of Ghatotkacha, a being of great power and loyalty, further emphasizes that the fruits of such open-mindedness can be extraordinary and beneficial in ways we might not initially expect.
The story also encourages a spirit of independence and reliance on personal virtues. Hidimva, knowing when to let go, and Ghatotkacha, promising assistance when needed, showcase the balance between support and independence in relationships. It teaches us that letting loved ones grow on their own, while assuring them of our support when necessary, is crucial for mutual growth and strength.
In summary, this narrative, rich with symbolism and ancient wisdom, serves as a reminder of the timeless values of compassion, openness, and the balance between duty and personal growth. It invites us to look beyond the surface, to love deeply, act righteously, and embrace the unique contributions each person can make to our lives.