Bhima
|
|
In the Mahabharata, Bhima is a heroic warrior, son of Kunti by Vayu, but the acknowledged son of Pandu and the second eldest of the Pandava brothers (If Karna, son of Kunti by Surya is considered, then Bhima becomes the third eldest sun of Kunti). He is distinguished from his brothers by his great stature and strength. He was recognized as the strongest man in the three worlds (heaven, hell and earth) and was a rival to Duryodhana for the title of the best warrior with a mace. He liked to use his hands when in combat and could hardly be scratched in battle. He could topple elephants with a blow of his fist and could cause Earthquakes just by stamping on the ground. Honorable, yet rash and angry, Bhima was one of the brothers who liked to fight, even when he was young.
With his brothers, he is married to Draupadi. He lived for a time in the forest with the rakshashi Hidimba whom he married after killing her brother Hidimb in a duel. He had a son from her named, Ghatotkacha.
The name is written Bhīma in IAST transliteration. He was addressed sometimes as "Bhimasena" because he was as powerful as a whole "sena," or army.
External Links
- Greatness of Bhima. (http://www.madhva.org/vms_mi/htm/Yamakabharatha_1.htm)