Janakas

Janakas refers to several figures in Indian literature and tradition, most prominently the king Janaka of Videha (also known as Mithila). The name is Sanskrit in origin, typically interpreted as meaning “father of the people” or “born of jana,” a term linked to the people or community. In Hindu texts, Janaka of Videha is portrayed as a virtuous, just ruler, renowned for wisdom and dharma. He is the father of Sita, the heroine of the Ramayana, and presides over the kingdom of Mithila during her swayamvara. According to tradition, Janaka sets the challenge for Sita’s suitor by offering her hand to one who can string the great bow of Shiva; Prince Rama succeeds, and Janaka blesses the marriage.

A second well-known Janaka appears in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, where King Janaka hosts philosophical dialogues with the sage Yajnavalkya. In these exchanges, Janaka asks about the nature of the self (atman) and brahman, and Yajnavalkya expounds teachings that emphasize knowledge, detachment, and the unity of the true self with ultimate reality. In this context, he is presented as an archetypal dharmic ruler who has attained spiritual insight.

Across later Puranic and literary traditions, several other legendary rulers are named Janaka, often associated with the Mithila region. In scholarly usage, Janakas may refer to these figures collectively; in Maithili folklore and temple literature, the name remains a symbol of virtuous kingship and philosophical inquiry.