Karna: The Tragic Hero of the Mahabharata - Loyalty, Honor, and Identity
Karna was the eldest son of Kunti and Sun god Surya. He was abandoned by his unwed mother and brought up by charioteer Adhirath and his wife Radha as a half caste Suta who was shunned by the Kshatriya society. He became a powerful warrior and great archer under the tutolage of guru Parashuram.
Because of the several interpolations in the original Vyasa Mahabharat down the ages, Karna's character got distorted to a large extent. This made certain people come to the conclusion that Karna was the wicked sidekick of Duryodhan who participated in all his evil actions against the “poor” Pandavas.
It is a well known fact that history is always written by the winners, portraying themselves as the tortured souls struggling to survive against the out and out villainy of the antagonists.
Similar Stories
Explore 10 captivating and little-known facts from the Ramayana, the timeless Indian epic of righteousness, devotion, and heroism that continues to inspire generations.
Explore the life of Bhishma, born as Devavrata, one of the greatest warriors in Indian mythology. Known for his unwavering adherence to dharma, Bhishma made immense sacrifices for the throne of Hastinapura, including his vow of celibacy. Discover his role in shaping the Mahabharata, his mentorship to the Kuru princes, his legendary battle with Parashurama, and his poignant journey of loyalty, sacrifice, and sorrow, culminating in his bed of arrows.
Explore the extraordinary birth of Dhrishtadyumna from the sacrificial fire, as narrated in the *Mahabharata*. This symbolic tale highlights themes of divine retribution, the power of yajna (sacrificial rituals), and the inevitability of destiny. Witness how King Drupada's desire for vengeance against Guru Drona culminates in the miraculous emergence of a warrior preordained to restore dharma.
Download App
Premium Astrology Service from