| Bhima | |
|---|---|
 An oleograph of Bhima by Ravi Varma Press | |
| Personal Information | |
| Affiliation | Pandavas |
| Weapon | |
| Family | Parents Brothers (Kunti)
|
| Spouse | |
| Children | Sons
|
| Relatives | |
Bhima (Sanskrit: भीम, IAST: Bhīma), also known as Bhimasena (Sanskrit: भीमसेन, IAST: Bhīmasena), is one of the most prominent figures in the Indian epic Mahabharata, renowned for his incredible strength, fierce loyalty, and key role in the epic’s narrative. As the second of the five Pandava brothers, Bhima was born to Kunti—the wife of King Pandu—through the blessings of Vayu, the wind god, which bestowed upon him superhuman strength from birth. His rivalry with the Kauravas, especially Duryodhana, defined much of his life, with this tension ultimately erupting in the Kurukshetra War, where Bhima killed all hundred Kaurava brothers.[1]
Bhima’s life was filled with extraordinary episodes that showcased his unmatched strength and bravery. From childhood, where he was rescued by the Nagas (divine serpents) after being poisoned, to his victories over formidable foes like Bakasura, Hidimba, and Jarasandha, Bhima’s adventures are integral to the Mahabharata’s storyline. His raw, earthy nature is reflected in the brutal slaying of his enemies, his immense appetite and his marriage with Hidimbi, a rakshasi (a supernatural being known to consume humans), who bore him a son, Ghatotkacha, a powerful warrior who would later play a significant role in the Kurukshetra War.[1]
Despite his immense physical strength, Bhima was deeply loyal and protective nature towards his family, particularly towards Draupadi, the common wife of the Pandavas. When Draupadi was humiliated in the Kaurava court, Bhima swore vengeance. He vowed to drink Dushasana’s blood and smash Duryodhana’s thigh, and years later, he fulfilled these vows during the Kurukshetra War. Bhima’s fierce devotion to Draupadi was also evident when he killed Kichaka, who had molested her during the Pandavas' year in disguise at the court of King Virata.[1]
A master of mace combat, Bhima was considered one of the strongest warriors of his time, with his strength often compared to that of thousands of elephants. Yet, despite his brute force, Bhima also embodied a strong sense of justice and duty, which guided his actions throughout the epic. After the war, Bhima aided his brother Yudhishthira in ruling the kingdom and stood by his brother when he later renounced the throne. Bhima accompanied Yudhishthira and the other Pandavas on their final journey to the Himalayas, where he eventually succumbed to his flaw of gluttony. His character endures in Indian and Javanese cultures as a symbol of immense power, righteous anger, and unwavering loyalty.[1]