King Bharata

King Bharata, the son of Dushyanta and Shakuntala, is a significant figure in the Mahabharata, as the great epic itself derives its name from him—Bharata Varsha, the land of Bharata, and Mahabharata, the great tale of the Bharatas.

Mentions of Bharata in the Mahabharata:

Adi Parva – Sambhava Parva (Book 1, Sections 69-75)

Bharata's story appears in the Adi Parva, particularly in the Sambhava Parva, where Rishi Vaishampayana narrates his birth and achievements to King Janamejaya.

Birth and Childhood

Bharata was born to Shakuntala, the daughter of sage Vishwamitra, and King Dushyanta of the Puru dynasty. His birth story is significant because Dushyanta initially failed to acknowledge him due to a memory curse (or intentional doubt), but later, after divine intervention, he accepted Bharata as his son.

Bharata’s Rule and Achievements

• Bharata became a mighty emperor, expanding the Puru dynasty's influence across Aryavarta.
• He performed several Ashwamedha Yajnas, establishing his supreme authority.
• His descendants were called Bharatas, and the land they ruled was known as Bharata Varsha.
• His rule was characterized by righteousness (dharma), military might, and prosperity.

Bharata’s Heir

The Mahabharata narrates that Bharata had many sons, but none were deemed worthy of ruling after him. Instead, he adopted Bhumanyu, who was appointed as his successor. This story highlights the principle that worthiness, not mere birthright, determines rulership, a recurring theme in the Mahabharata.

Significance of Bharata in the Mahabharata’s Legacy

Bharata’s name and lineage are central to the epic. The Pandavas and Kauravas, who are central figures of the Mahabharata, belong to the Bharata dynasty. His life reflects ideal kingship, merit-based succession, and dharma, themes that continue throughout the Mahabharata.

Sanskrit Shlokas from the Adi Parva

Below are a few Sanskrit shlokas from the Adi Parva of the Mahabharata, specifically from the sections that mention King Bharata.

1. Shakuntala Declares Bharata's Lineage (Adi Parva, Sambhava Parva, Section 74)

शकुन्तलोवाच
क्षत्रियाणामविज्ञातं कुळं नैवोपतिष्ठते।
ऋषिभिस्तु कृतं कुल्यं तन्मया कथ्यते तव ॥

Shakuntalovāca
"Among Kshatriyas, an unknown lineage is never accepted.
But the sages have declared our lineage, which I now reveal to you."

Here, Shakuntala asserts her son's rightful place in the Puru dynasty.

2. Bharata's Might and Power (Adi Parva, Section 75)

दंष्ट्रिणः सर्वतो हत्वा मृगेन्द्र इव कानने।
चक्रे मार्गान्यशेषाणि पृथिव्यां कृतविक्रमः॥

"Like a lion in the forest slaying all its enemies,
Bharata, full of prowess, conquered all paths on Earth."

This showcases Bharata’s unparalleled strength and conquests.

3. Bharata's Succession by Merit, Not Birth (Adi Parva, Section 75)

सर्वेषां चैव पुत्राणां न कश्चिदभवत्प्रियः।
धर्मार्थसहितं चैव स ततो मनसा स्थितः॥

"Among all his sons, none were dear to him as a successor.
Thus, he sought one who upheld dharma and wisdom."

This highlights the Mahabharata’s theme that rulership is determined by virtue, not mere birthright.

Conclusion

Bharata’s story in the Mahabharata is not just about a powerful king but about the ideals of leadership and dharma. His legacy sets the stage for the grand events of the Mahabharata, where his descendants struggle with the same ideals of duty, power, and righteousness.