The Birth of Karna and the Marriages of Kunti and Madri (Mahabharata Series 14)

After the birth of the illustrious heirs of the Kuru dynasty, Bhishma governed the kingdom of Hastinapura with immense wisdom and fairness. His rule was founded upon the principles of Dharma, and the citizens lived in peace and prosperity. Bhishma took personal responsibility for the welfare and education of the royal princes, ensuring they performed their sacred rites and acquired knowledge in all disciplines.

One day, a small wooden box carrying the infant Karna floated along the Yamuna River and eventually reached the Ganga River. There, Adhiratha, the charioteer chief, opened the box and saw the radiant child glowing with divine brilliance. Overjoyed, he took the baby home and presented him to his wife, Radha. Having long despaired of having children, Radha was overwhelmed with happiness. Believing Karna to be a divine blessing, they raised him lovingly as their own son and named him "Vasushena," meaning "one born with wealth and splendor."

Growing up, Vasushena mastered the art of archery and became devoted to the Sun God, unaware that he was the Sun God's own son. In his generosity, whenever beggars approached, Karna would give them whatever he had. One day, disguised as a Brahmin, Indra came seeking Karna’s divine armor and earrings. Without hesitation, Karna cut off his natural armor from his body and gifted it to Indra. Thus, he earned the name "Vaikartana," symbolizing his selfless sacrifice.

Meanwhile, Kunti, the biological mother of Karna, had abandoned her son out of fear of disgrace. Deep in sorrow, she returned to her father’s palace, though she never forgot her child. As time passed, Kunti blossomed into a young woman of great beauty and virtue. Many kings desired her hand in marriage, and Kunti Bhoja resolved to hold a Swayamvara (self-choice ceremony) to find a suitable husband.

News of Kunti’s Swayamvara reached Hastinapura. Bhishma, knowing Kunti’s excellence, decided she was the perfect match to strengthen the Kuru dynasty. He sent Pandu, the younger brother of Dhritarashtra, to the Swayamvara. On the appointed day, the event was grand, attended by countless princes. Kunti’s eyes fell upon the handsome and valiant Pandu, and without hesitation, she garlanded him as her husband.

Thus, Kunti Bhoja gave his daughter in marriage to Pandu along with priceless jewels. The Brahmins chanted sacred mantras, and the Kuru royal family warmly welcomed the newlyweds into the palace. Pandu and Kunti began their married life in bliss.

Later, Bhishma resolved that Pandu should marry a second wife to strengthen the dynasty further. He arranged for Madri, the princess of the Madra kingdom, to be brought as Pandu’s second wife. The Madra king Shalya, adhering to his customs, asked for a substantial dowry. Bhishma graciously agreed to provide gold coins, elephants, chariots, horses, and precious jewels as the bride price.

Satisfied, Shalya gave his daughter Madri in marriage to Pandu. Madri was adorned in all her finery and welcomed into the Kuru royal family.

Thus, the noble lineage of the Kurus continued, with Bhishma as the wise protector, guiding the family towards greatness.