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Who is the father of Yudhishthira in the Mahabharata? - How Yama Influenced The Life Of Yudhisthira?


Yudhisthira was the first of Pandavas. His mother was Kunti. Who is the father of Yudhishthira in the Mahabharat is explained below in the story. She was married to Pandu. But Pandu could not have sexual union with Kunti because of a curse. Kunti due to her service to Sage Durvasa had got a boon that she will be able to summon a god and have children in him. Pandu requested Kunti to make use of the boon. Thus Yudhishthira was born when Kunti summoned Dharmaraja, also known as Yama, the god of death in Hinduism. Dharmaraja blessed her with Yudhisthira.

But as per social custom that was followed at the time of Mahabharata, Pandu is the father of Yudhishthira.
How Yama Influenced The Life Of Yudhisthira?

How Yama Influenced The Life Of Yudhisthira?

Yama, the god of death and righteousness in Hindu mythology, plays a significant role in the life of Yudhisthira, one of the central characters in the Indian epic, the Mahabharata.

Yudhisthira, known for his adherence to dharma (righteousness), faces numerous trials and tribulations throughout his life, many of which are influenced by Yama in one way or another:

The Game of Dice: Yama's influence is indirectly felt through the events leading up to the infamous game of dice in the Mahabharata. Yudhisthira's uncle, Shakuni, who is believed to be driven by the spirit of deceit and manipulation, orchestrates the game to cheat the Pandavas out of their kingdom. Yama's influence here is evident in the moral dilemma faced by Yudhisthira during the game, where he struggles to maintain his righteousness while being pressured to gamble.

Exile and Lessons in Dharma: After losing the game of dice, Yudhisthira and his brothers, along with their wife Draupadi, are exiled for twelve years. During this period, they face numerous challenges and undergo various trials, all of which test Yudhisthira's commitment to dharma. Yama's influence can be seen in the lessons that Yudhisthira learns during this time about the complexities of righteousness and the consequences of one's actions.

The Journey to Swarga (Heaven): Towards the end of the Mahabharata, Yudhisthira embarks on a journey to Swarga accompanied by his dog. Yama, disguised as a dog, accompanies him on this journey. Along the way, Yudhisthira faces various tests and challenges, including the temptation to abandon his dog-companion, which symbolizes his duty and loyalty. Yama's presence in the form of the dog serves as a guide and a test of Yudhisthira's commitment to righteousness even in the face of adversity.

Meeting with Yama in Swarga: Upon reaching Swarga, Yudhisthira is reunited with his brothers and other virtuous souls. However, he learns that his sinful actions during his life have earned him a brief stay in hell. Yudhisthira's meeting with Yama in Swarga reinforces the importance of dharma and the consequences of one's actions, even for someone as virtuous as Yudhisthira.

Overall, Yama's influence on Yudhisthira's life in the Mahabharata is profound, shaping his character and testing his commitment to righteousness in various ways throughout his journey.