The Rise of Bhishma: The Kashi Princesses and the Vow Fulfilled
- Dheemahi Connect
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
After marrying Satyavati, King Shantanu lived in blissful harmony for many years. From their union were born two sons—Chitrangada and Vichitravirya. In time, Shantanu passed away, and as per the wishes of Queen Satyavati, Bhishma enthroned his elder brother Chitrangada.
Chitrangada, a warrior of immense prowess, conquered all surrounding kingdoms with his strength and grew arrogant, believing himself unparalleled among mortals and celestials. This pride reached the ears of a Gandharva king who coincidentally shared the same name—Chitrangada. Offended by this coincidence and the mortal king's arrogance, the Gandharva challenged him to a duel.
A terrible battle ensued on the banks of the River Saraswati in Kurukshetra, lasting three long years. Though courageous, the mortal Chitrangada lacked mastery in the mystical art of Maya warfare. Eventually, the Gandharva triumphed and returned to his realm, leaving the Kurus mourning the loss of their king.
Since this was a personal duel and not a war for territory or succession, Bhishma did not intervene, respecting the code of warrior conduct. After performing the final rites of Chitrangada, Bhishma crowned his younger brother Vichitravirya as the king.
Until Vichitravirya reached adulthood, Bhishma managed the kingdom with wisdom and grace, without any desire to rule. Acting in accordance with his father's wishes and mother Satyavati’s guidance, he remained the kingdom’s chief guardian.
Once Vichitravirya came of age, Bhishma decided it was time to find him suitable brides. At the same time, news arrived that the king of Kashi was hosting a grand Swayamvara for his three beautiful daughters—Amba, Ambika, and Ambalika. Believing them to be perfect matches for his brother, Bhishma sought Satyavati’s blessing and set off alone to Kashi.
The Swayamvara hall was decorated with floral garlands and gemstones. Kings from all directions, adorned in regal attire and ornaments, sat on thrones, eagerly awaiting the princesses' choice. Amidst music and chants, the three maidens entered, each holding a garland. As they moved past the suitors, accompanied by royal bards announcing each king’s lineage and glory, a sudden commotion struck the gathering.
Bhishma, the eternal celibate, stormed into the hall like a thunderbolt. Murmurs rose among the crowd: “What is Bhishma, the man who vowed never to marry, doing here?”, “Has he broken his sacred vow?”. Unshaken, Bhishma proclaimed that he had come not for himself but to secure brides for his brother, Vichitravirya. He declared that the three princesses were to come with him. At his commanding voice, the princesses stepped into his chariot.
As Bhishma turned to leave, the assembly of kings—humiliated and furious—rose in protest. Armored and armed, they rushed to confront him. Yet, alone and resolute, Bhishma defeated them all, scattering their weapons like dry leaves in the wind.
Just as Bhishma prepared to leave, King Salva of Saubha appeared. He was in love with the eldest princess, Amba, and challenged Bhishma to a duel. A fierce battle followed, but Bhishma’s might proved superior. Though victorious, Bhishma spared Salva’s life and allowed him to return home.
With Amba, Ambika, and Ambalika in his chariot, Bhishma rode back triumphantly to Hastinapura, unaware of the twists fate still held in store.
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