Kuru Dynasty
Bhishma
भीष्म
The Terrible Vow
Who was Bhishma?
Bhishma (भीष्म): The Terrible Vow, a figure of the Kuru dynasty in the Mahabharata. Born as Devavrata, he took a terrible vow of celibacy for his father's happiness, becoming immortal Bhishma.
Quick Facts
| Sanskrit name | भीष्म |
|---|---|
| Title / Epithet | The Terrible Vow |
| Faction | Kuru Dynasty |
| Key traits | Honorable, Bound by Oath, Tragic, Invincible |
| Notable relationships | Grand-nephew & Opponent: Arjuna, Object of Devotion: Krishna, Grand-daughter-in-law: Draupadi |
| Featured in | 22 stories |
About Bhishma
Born as Devavrata, he took a terrible vow of celibacy for his father's happiness, becoming immortal Bhishma. The greatest warrior trapped between duty and dharma.
In Their Words
I am bound by my oath to protect this throne, not its holder.
Bhishma
Traits
- Honorable
- Bound by Oath
- Tragic
- Invincible
Story Appearances
- The Terrible VowProtagonist - Makes the terrible vow
- The Infinite SariSilent witness to injustice
- Eighteen Days of DestructionCommander of Kaurava forces
Character Arc
- The SacrificeRenounces throne and marriage
- The BlessingGranted death at will
- The TragedyBound to fight against dharma
Key Relationships
Places in Bhishma's Story
Drawn from the stories Bhishma appears in.
Related Characters
Others counted among the Kuru Dynasty.