Relationship Between Ganga And Bhishma In The Mahabharata
The relationship between Ganga and Bhishma in the
Mahabharata is complex and rooted in both mythology and familial ties. Ganga,
the goddess of the Ganges River, is also known as the mother of Bhishma.
According to the Mahabharata, Bhishma was born as Devavrata,
the son of King Shantanu and Ganga. Shantanu fell in love with Ganga, who
agreed to marry him on the condition that he would never question her actions.
However, Ganga had a tragic past with a curse that led her to drown her own
children soon after birth. When Devavrata was born, Ganga intended to drown him
as well, but Shantanu intervened and pleaded with her not to. Ganga then took
Devavrata and left, returning him to Shantanu only after he had grown into a
young man. She revealed her true identity and departed, leaving Devavrata in
Shantanu's care.
This incident deeply impacted Devavrata, who later came to
be known as Bhishma, meaning "the one with the terrible oath." He
made a vow of lifelong celibacy, dedicating himself to serving his father and
ensuring the welfare of his family, the Kuru dynasty. Bhishma's devotion to his
father and his selfless sacrifices throughout the Mahabharata epic are often
attributed to his complex relationship with Ganga, his mother, and his
commitment to his father's happiness.
While Ganga's role in the Mahabharata is relatively limited compared to Bhishma's, her actions and influence, particularly in Bhishma's early life, play a significant role in shaping his character and decisions throughout the epic.