Bhagadatta

Bhagadatta was a legendary king who features prominently in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. He was the ruler of the Pragjyotisha kingdom, often identified with the ancient region of Assam in Northeast India. Bhagadatta was renowned for his prowess in warfare and his impressive army, particularly his war elephants.

In the Mahabharata, Bhagadatta was a formidable ally of the Kauravas during the great Kurukshetra War. He arrived with his vast contingent to support Duryodhana's side, bringing his formidable fighting skills and his unique fighting force. His participation in the war was significant, and he fought bravely against the Pandava forces.

Bhagadatta's lineage is described as a descendant of the demon king Virochana, and his father was Naraka. He was known for his immense strength and courage. During the Kurukshetra War, he famously wielded a divine weapon known as the Vaishnavastra, which was bestowed upon him by the god Vishnu. This weapon was capable of defeating even the most powerful warriors.

Bhagadatta's son, Bhagadatta, also played a role in the epic. The king's death in the war is a notable event, marking the loss of a powerful warrior for the Kaurava camp. His story highlights the complex alliances and the grand scale of the conflict depicted in the Mahabharata.