Bahlika was a staunch ally of the Kauravas and played a significant role in the events leading up to and during the great battle of Kurukshetra in the Mahabharata. He was the elder brother of Shantanu, the grandfather of both Bhishma and the Kauravas, making him a grand uncle to both the Kauravas and Pandavas. His loyalty to the Kuru dynasty led him to support Duryodhana, even though he was fully aware of the complex and strained relationships within the family. Bahlika’s decision to side with the Kauravas was influenced by his adherence to dharma (duty) towards his kin, despite his awareness of Duryodhana’s flaws.
Bahlika’s support extended beyond just being a presence in councils. He was a skilled warrior and a leader in his own right, ruling the kingdom of Bahlika (identified as a region near present-day Afghanistan). Known for his wisdom and maturity, he frequently attended councils in Hastinapura, contributing to strategic discussions during the planning stages of the war. Although he was advanced in age, he did not hesitate to participate actively in the battle when the time came.
When the war commenced, Bahlika fought valiantly on behalf of the Kauravas. His loyalty to the family and commitment to his duty as a Kuru were evident in his actions. Yet, despite his valor, Bahlika ultimately met his end on the battlefield, slain by Bhima on one of the intense days of the war. His death signified the sacrifices made by the elder generation in a war that tore apart the very family they sought to uphold.
The story of Bahlika illustrates the complex loyalties within the Kuru family and the challenges faced by elders who found themselves drawn into the conflict despite their desires for peace. His presence in the councils, his unwavering loyalty, and his tragic fate on the battlefield make Bahlika a significant, though often understated, figure in the Mahabharata. His character is a reminder of the difficult choices faced by those bound by duty to family and tradition, even at the cost of their lives.