Discover the Oldest Warrior in the Mahabharata: Bahlika

When discussing the great warriors of the Mahabharata, one often thinks of Bhishma Pitamah, who witnessed five generations. However, there is another figure who stands out as the oldest warrior, Bahlika. Bahlika's remarkable life story, spanning various realms and timelines, makes him a fascinating character in this ancient epic.

Bahlika: The Elderly King

Bahlika, also spelled as Vahlika, was the king of the Bahlika kingdom. He was the elder brother of Shantanu, the king of Hastinapur, and the uncle of Bhishma. While Bhishma Pitamah, grandfather to the Pandavas and Kauravas, is often remembered, Bahlika deserves his due recognition for his longevity and participation in the fateful Mahabharata war.

The Lineage and Background

Bahlika descended from the lineage of Kuruvanshi King Pratip. Pratip had three sons: Devapi, Bahlika, and Shantanu. Devapi chose a spiritual path due to a sickness, while Bahlika relinquished the throne in favor of his younger brother, Shantanu. Shantanu, the youngest of the three, became the king, and later, his son Devavrat, known as Bhishma, became an integral part of the story.

Bahlika's Godly Origins and Transmigration

Bahlika had an unusual origin. Initially, he served as one of the gods in the service of Chaturmukha Brahma, known as Shankukarna. In his previous incarnation, he was Prahlaada, the son of Hiranyakashipu. Later, he was born as Vyaasateertha Dvaita seer, whose spiritual retreat was recently desecrated, and finally, he reincarnated as Shri Raghavendra Teertha, another Dvaita seer with a spiritual retreat in Mantralayam.

Bahlika's Role in the Mahabharata War

Bahlika was known as the oldest warrior in the Mahabharata. He participated in the war along with his son, Somdutta, and grandson, Bhurishrava. They supported the Kauravas at the request of Dhritarashtra. Tragically, Bahlika lost his life in the war, specifically on the 14th day, at the hands of Bhima.

While Bhishma Pitamah is rightly considered one of the oldest warriors in the epic, Bahlika's contributions and unique journey make him a remarkable figure. His story spans across different aspects of human and divine existence, making him not just a warrior but a symbol of longevity and resilience.

Conclusion

Bahlika's legacy is one of remarkable endurance and participation in one of the most significant battles of the ancient literary world. His life story continues to inspire and captivate those who explore the rich tapestry of the Mahabharata. If you are interested in learning more about the epic's characters and events, Bahlika's story is a testament to the enduring nature of the Mahabharata.