MANDHATA Mandhata, who was said to be a chakravarti king (an emperor),utters the Praises of the qualities of Guru Nanak Dev… (Swayye Mahle Pahle Ke, p. 1390) Mandhata or Mandhatri was the son of Yuvanaswa, who belonged to the race of Ikshwaku. Yuvanaswa had no son and no religious rite was organised to procure progeny for him. One night, a consecrated vessel containing water was placed on an altar as a part of the rite. Yuvanaswa woke up during the night and wanted to quench the thirst. He found the water only in the above-mentioned vessel and drank it.
When the sages found that the water had been drunk, they made the query as to who had drunk the same. The king Yuvanaswa said that he had drunk it unwittingly. He conceived and in the course of time gave birth to a child from his right side. The boy, who was named Mandhatri (or Mandhata) grew up and became a mighty monarch. He married Hindumati and by her had three sons and fifty daughters. All the fifty daughters were married to the sage Saibhari.
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
Mandhata, also known as Mandhatri, is a legendary king in Hindu mythology, celebrated for his extraordinary achievements and divine lineage. He is a prominent figure in the Solar Dynasty (Suryavamsha), which is believed to trace its origins to the Sun God, Surya. Mandhata’s story is narrated in texts like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and various Puranas.
Birth and Divine Origins
Mandhata’s birth is miraculous and imbued with divine intervention. His father, King Yuvanashva, accidentally drank sacred water meant for a ritual to produce offspring. As a result, Yuvanashva conceived Mandhata, who was born from his father’s body. The gods, including Indra, nourished the newborn with divine nectar, granting him immense strength and vitality.
Achievements and Conquests
Mandhata is renowned for his unparalleled conquests and generosity:
- Conqueror of the Three Worlds: Mandhata is said to have conquered the Earth, the underworld (Patala), and parts of heaven (Svarga), earning him the title of a universal ruler.
- Yajnas and Charity: He performed numerous Ashvamedha Yajnas (horse sacrifices) and Rajasuya Yajnas (royal sacrifices), showcasing his devotion and commitment to dharma. He is also remembered for his immense charity, gifting countless cows and golden statues to Brahmins. Family and Legacy
Mandhata married Bindumati, a princess from the Yadu Dynasty, and had three sons—Purukutsa, Ambarisha, and Muchukunda—and fifty daughters. His daughters famously married the ascetic Saubhari, who impressed them with his spiritual prowess.
Mandhata’s lineage continued through his sons, who themselves became illustrious rulers. His descendants are believed to include Lord Rama, further cementing his significance in Hindu mythology.
Symbolism
Mandhata’s life symbolizes the ideals of a righteous king who upholds dharma, protects his subjects, and maintains cosmic balance. His story also serves as a reminder of the dangers of hubris, as his desire to conquer heaven ultimately led to his downfall.
Cultural Depictions
Mandhata’s story is depicted in various art forms, including carvings on stupas and caves in India. His legacy is celebrated as an example of divine grace and human endeavor.
