Kunti, a central figure in the Mahabharata, symbolizes strength, virtue, and maternal sacrifice. Her life is interwoven with the complexity of the Kuru dynasty, marked by both joyous moments and profound challenges.
This overview delves into Kunti’s family life and major life events and captures the essence of her character through notable sayings.
Family Life:
Early Life and Adoption:
Kunti, also known as Pritha, was the daughter of King Shurasena, a Yadava ruler. Other two offspring of Shurasena were Samudravijaya and Vasudeva (father of Vasudeva Krishna). Thus, Kunti was Krishna’s aunt on his father’s side. However, she was adopted by King Kuntibhoja and his queen, who raised her as their own. Hence, she became known as Kunti.
During her youth, the sage Durvasa visited Kunti’s home. Pleased with her hospitality, he granted her a boon: the ability to invoke any deity and have a child by them. Curious and impulsive, Kunti tested the boon and invoked the sun god, Surya. This led to the birth of her first son, Karna, whom she had to place in a basket and set afloat in a river due to societal norms.
Marriage of Kunti
Kunti was beautiful and possessed all the qualities. She was always devoted to dharma and great vows. Her father arranged for a svayamvara, and she chose Pandu as her husband.
Birth of Pandavas
One day, while hunting, Pandu accidentally kills the sage Kimdama, who is in the form of a stag and is uniting with his wife. In retaliation, the sage curses Pandu, decreeing that he will die before his desires are fulfilled, just as he had killed the deer before its desires were satisfied. Pandu, deeply affected by the curse, refrained from being intimate with his wives, fearing the consequences.
One day, Pandu urged Kunti to obtain sons through superior Brahmanas, but Kunti, devoted to him, insisted on fulfilling her duty as his wife and bearing children for him alone. Kunti revealed her ability to summon gods through a mantra given by Sage Durvasa. Pandu, eager for offspring, instructed her to summon Dharma. Through Dhrama, Kunti had a first son, Yudhishthira. Later, Kunti also have two more sons; Bhima by invoking Vayu (the wind god) and Arjuna by Indra.
When Kunti gave birth to three virtuous sons by invoking Dharma, Vayu (the wind god), and Indra, Pandu became greedy for more sons, but Kunti refused, saying, a fourth son has not been heard of, even in times of calamity. After that, a woman is called promiscuous. After the fifth, she is called a courtesan. Nakula and Sahadeva were born from Madri by the assistance of Kunti through invoking Ashvins (the divine twins).
Kunti’s Agony: The Duel of Karna and Arjuna
After rigorous training under Guru Drona, the Kuru princes, including Yudhisthira, Bhimsena, Duryodhana, and Arjuna, were gathered to showcase their martial prowess in a grand event.
Arjuna’s exceptional archery and weapon skills left everyone in awe, earning him widespread admiration. However, as the event neared its conclusion, a dramatic turn unfolded when Karna, a formidable warrior, arrived unexpectedly.
Confident in his abilities, Karna boldly declared himself superior to Arjuna and challenged him to a one-on-one duel. Undeterred by the sudden challenge, Arjuna, ever determined, accepted Karna’s proposition, ready to face him in combat and again prove his mettle.
Kuntibhoja’s daughter (Kunti) fainted upon witnessing the unfolding events, knowing the truth behind the warriors’ identities. Vidura, knowledgeable in matters of righteousness, revived Kunti by sprinkling sandalwood water over her. Upon regaining consciousness, Kunti was struck with grief as she saw her two sons, adorned in armor, fighting with each other, and she could do nothing to stop the fight.
Major Life Events:
Raising the Pandavas:
Kunti played a significant role in nurturing and guiding her sons, particularly after the untimely death of King Pandu. As a single mother, she faced the challenges of raising five sons in a royal but tumultuous environment.
Karna’s Reveal:
Kunti’s reunion with Karna, her firstborn, occurred later in the epic. Karna, ignorant of his true lineage, was raised by a charioteer. The revelation of Karna being her son added complexity to the Mahabharata’s narrative. Despite her joy at finding her firstborn, societal norms and political considerations strained her relationship with Karna.
Exile of Pandavas:
Kunti witnessed the rivalry between the Pandavas and Kauravas escalate, leading to the infamous game of dice where they lost their kingdom and were forced into exile. The pain of seeing her sons face exile and Draupadi’s humiliation left an indelible mark on Kunti.
Kurukshetra War:
The great Kurukshetra War, the culmination of the conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas, unfolded with Kunti witnessing the fierce battle. She faced the anguish of seeing her sons fight against their cousins and relatives, a tragedy that haunted her as a mother.
Aftermath and Departure:
After the war, Kunti and the surviving members of the Kuru family faced the challenges of rebuilding a shattered kingdom. Her role in guiding Yudhishthira, who became the king, was crucial post-war.
Kunti’s Major Saying:
“आत्मनं समर्प्य चान्यत्र भूत्वा भूत्वा प्रलीना भवा।”
- “Atmanam samarpya cha anyatra bhootva bhootva praleenaa bhava.”
- Translation: “Surrender yourself and merge into the whole, becoming one with everything.”
Kunti’s saying reflects the philosophy of self-surrender and integration with the cosmic consciousness. It suggests transcending individual identity and merging with the greater whole, emphasizing spiritual oneness.
Legacy and Significance:
Kunti’s life and character in the Mahabharata carry profound lessons about maternal sacrifice, resilience, and navigating complex familial relationships. Her unwavering commitment to her children’s well-being, despite adversity, showcases the depth of a mother’s love.
Kunti’s character invites contemplation on mothers’ challenges in circumstances beyond their control. From the complexities of her early life to the trials faced by her sons, Kunti’s journey offers insights into the dynamics of duty, morality, and the sacrifices often demanded by fate.
As a literary and cultural figure, Kunti’s story resonates in various adaptations, interpretations, and retellings. Her nuanced portrayal in the Mahabharata is a timeless exploration of human experiences, familial bonds, and the profound responsibilities of motherhood.