The story of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari’s marriage is one of loyalty, sacrifice, and devotion. It also subtly foreshadows the complicated future of the Kuru dynasty, with elements of fate and devotion playing key roles in shaping the characters and the lineage they would go on to create. Dhritarashtra, the blind prince of the Kuru dynasty, was born to Queen Ambika and Sage Vyasa under unusual circumstances. From birth, his blindness presented challenges regarding his ability to rule effectively, yet he was known for his exceptional strength and intelligence.

Gandhari, the princess of Gandhara, was renowned for her virtue, beauty, and deep spiritual inclination. The daughter of King Subala, she was raised in a family that valued loyalty and honor. Gandhari was blessed by Lord Shiva in her youth and given the boon of a hundred sons. Little did she know that this blessing would set the stage for the future of the Kuru dynasty and the eventual events leading to the Mahabharata war.

When Gandhari reached marriageable age, news of her beauty and virtue spread across the kingdoms. Soon, Bhishma, the elder statesman and guardian of the Kuru dynasty, came to know of her qualities. Bhishma was seeking a suitable bride for Dhritarashtra, hoping that her influence might complement Dhritarashtra’s strengths and bring stability to Hastinapura.

Bhishma traveled to Gandhara to propose an alliance between Hastinapura and Gandhara by arranging a marriage between Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. King Subala, Gandhari’s father, was initially hesitant due to Dhritarashtra’s blindness. However, the honor of marrying into the esteemed Kuru dynasty and the stature of Bhishma himself convinced him to agree to the alliance.

Gandhari, upon learning of her betrothal to Dhritarashtra, was filled with a deep sense of duty and commitment. She was aware of the challenges that might come with marrying a blind prince, but her devotion to dharma (righteousness) and loyalty to her family’s decision made her accept the marriage willingly. In an extraordinary act of empathy and devotion, Gandhari decided to take a drastic step to share her husband’s fate. She chose to blindfold herself, symbolizing that she would not see what her husband could not see.

This act of self-sacrifice and solidarity was both admired and questioned. On one hand, Gandhari’s commitment to sharing her husband’s world was revered as a powerful example of loyalty. On the other, some worried that her self-imposed blindness would rob her of the ability to act as an independent guide for her husband. Nonetheless, Gandhari was resolute, and her decision won the admiration of Dhritarashtra, who was deeply moved by her devotion.

On the day of the wedding, Gandhari arrived in Hastinapura with her eyes covered, symbolizing her acceptance of Dhritarashtra’s world as her own. Her act left a strong impression on the people of Hastinapura, and she quickly gained a reputation for her unwavering devotion and strength of character. Dhritarashtra was both humbled and grateful, as he had never expected such a profound gesture from his wife. Over time, Gandhari’s loyalty and commitment became a source of strength and encouragement for Dhritarashtra, inspiring him in his duties as a prince and, eventually, as a king.

Despite the love and loyalty they shared, Gandhari’s choice to blindfold herself came with its challenges. She remained dependent on others to a certain extent, relying on her inner strength and spiritual wisdom to guide her decisions. But her spiritual insight and calm temperament made her a respected figure in the Kuru court, where her presence was a constant reminder of self-sacrifice and resilience.

The couple, though bound by strong devotion to each other, faced a life of emotional challenges. Dhritarashtra, who harbored insecurities about his blindness, often wrestled with feelings of resentment toward his younger brother, Pandu, who was appointed king because of Dhritarashtra’s disability. Gandhari, however, supported her husband through these trials, counseling him with patience and calmness. She reminded him of the importance of inner strength and helped him bear his burdens.