Barbareek's Father

Barbareek's story begins at that time the five sons of Pandu and their mother were thought to be dead, burnt alive in a supposedly accidental fire in "Lakshagrah" or the house of lac. Actually they had escaped and were living as brahmins in exile. (For those who have been following my articles - Draupadi's swayamwara was yet some time away.) Spending the night in a dense forest, Bhim stood guard while his brothers and mother slept. The forest was the home of the demon Hidimba and his sister Hidimbaa. Hidimba smelt human flesh and was overjoyed that would not have to eat the usual small animals that night. Hidimba accosted Bhim and in the fierce battle that followed Hidimba was killed.

Hidimbaa, who was watching the duel, approached Bhim and said, "You have killed my brother and have thus left me without sustenance. It is now your duty to marry me."

Bhim was aghast. He told her that an alliance between the races of demons and humans was impossible. There was no question of accepting her proposal.

Hidimbaa then took her suit to Bhim's mother, Kunti. "You are a woman and can understand my plight. Please ensure that I get justice."

Kunti arranged a compromise. Bhim would marry Hidimbaa and remain with her for one year or till she bore a son. Thereafter Bhim would return to his brothers, though he would visit Hidimbaa occasionally. However Hidimbaa was not to visit Bhim nor stake any claim on him. Hidimbaa agreed and the marriage was solemnised.

Hidimbaa soon conceived and before the year was complete she gave birth to a son. Since he was the son of a she-demon he was large since birth. Also he did not have any hair on his head. For this he was given the name Ghatotkachch. His uncles and grandmother came to the forest to bless him, but took away his father.

Bhim watched the growth of his son with pride. Hidimbaa ensured that he learnt not only the use of weapons, but imbibed the values of his father's clan. She assured Bhim that whenever the Pandavas needed Ghatotkachch, he would present himself and even sacrifice his life to their cause if need be.

Another person who watched over Ghatotkachch with interest was Krishna. Krishna was the guide and mentor to the Pandavas and looked upon Ghatotkachch as his nephew. When Ghatotkachch reached a marriageable age, Hidimbaa and the Pandavas requested Krishna to find a suitable bride.

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