hastin

Hastin may refer to Hastinapura, the ancient capital of the Kuru kingdom in the Indian epic Mahabharata. In the epic’s mythic geography, Hastinapura is situated in the northern Indian subcontinent and serves as the political and ceremonial center of the Kuru state. The precise historic location, if any, is a subject of scholarly debate, with several identifications proposed over time.

The name derives from Sanskrit hasti (elephant) and pura (city), yielding “city of elephants.” Hastin can be used as a shortened form of Hastinapura or as a stand-alone reference in some retellings and discussions of the legend.

In literary context, Hastinapura is the seat of the Kuru dynasty and the residence of rulers such as Bhishma, Dhritarashtra, and Duryodhana. It stands in opposition to the Pandavas, who, after exile, establish Indraprastha. The competing houses and their intrigues in Hastinapura unfold through political maneuvering, alliance-building, and moral dilemmas, ultimately leading to the Kurukshetra War. The city is depicted as a royal, fortified pol ity with a courtly culture, ceremonial traditions, and moments of significant decision-making.

Modern references and usage include real places named Hastinapur in northern India, such as a town in Uttar Pradesh, which draws its name from the legendary city. The term also appears in translations, adaptations, and scholarly works on the Mahabharata, where Hastinapura remains a potent symbol of dynastic power and conflict.