Shatkumara

Shatkumara refers to a group of six princes in ancient Indian mythology, most notably appearing in the Sanskrit epic, the Mahabharata. These princes were the sons of Dhritarashtra, the blind king of Hastinapur, and his wife Gandhari. They were the elder brothers of the Kauravas, who were one hundred in number. The Shatkumara are distinguished as the eldest and most powerful among Dhritarashtra's offspring, though the specific identities of all six are not always consistently detailed across all texts. Often, they are referred to collectively rather than individually by name, emphasizing their role as a significant faction within the Kuru clan. Their presence highlights the complex familial relationships and the inherent conflicts that led to the Kurukshetra War. They are portrayed as valiant warriors who fought alongside their father and brothers against the Pandavas. Their fate was sealed in the great battle, where they met their demise, further contributing to the tragic narrative of the Mahabharata. The concept of the Shatkumara underscores themes of lineage, duty, and the devastating consequences of war in ancient Indian literature.