Is Arjuna a Maharathi in Mahabharata?

Arjuna, one of the most significant warriors in Indian epic Mahabharata, is often referred to as a Maharathi. This title, however, has sparked some debate, with varying interpretations among scholars and chroniclers. This article aims to clarify and explore whether Arjuna actually qualifies as a Maharathi based on the Mahabharata and other historical context.

Definitions and Context

In the Mahabharata, the terms Maharathi, Atiratha, and Ratha are used to classify car-warriors. While these terms are distinct, they all refer to elite warriors who are exceptionally skilled in the art of warfare on chariots.

Arjuna’s Capabilities

As a student of Drona, Arjuna excelled in his training and quickly became one of the most formidable warriors of the Kurukshetra War. He is often described as an Atiratha, a car-warrior capable of fighting with sixty thousand foes at once.

Among the Princes, he was exceptional. For instance, the Adi Parva (Book 1) of the Mahabharata states:

O lord of men! Dhritarashtra’s evil-souled sons could not stand Bhimasena’s great strength and Arjuna’s great skill and hated them.

Towering Achievements in War

During the Kurukshetra War, Arjuna’s prowess was evident. On the fifth day, he single-handedly killed 25,000 Maharathis. Bhishma Pitamaha certainly acclaimed his unparalleled skills, exclaiming:

As regards Gudakesha of reddish eyes having Narayana for his ally there is not among both the armies any brave car-warrior that can be regarded as his equal. Let men alone it hath not been heard by us that even among gods Asuras Uragas Rakshasas and Yakshas there ever was born before or there ever will be born hereafter any car-warrior like unto him!

These excerpts from the Mahabharata highlight Arjuna's unmatched abilities and suggest he indeed qualifies as a Maharathi. The Atiratha title further underscores his exceptional status, placing him among the elite few who could wage battle with daunting numbers of rivals.

Rank and Recognition

When Bhishma Pitamaha bestowed ranks upon the soldiers, the term Atimaharathi was not used. Nonetheless, Arjuna's capabilities and achievements align closely with the standards set for Maharathis in the epic.

Udyoga Parva CLXX describes the classification of warriors:

Bhishma devided the warriors into Rathas Maharathas and Atirathas. There was no Atimaharathi mentioned anywhere.

While this scripture does not explicitly refer to Atimaharathi, the descriptions and context imply that Arjuna's rank and recognition were high, mirroring the standard of a Maharathi.

Conclusion

Based on textual evidence and historical interpretations, it can be argued that Arjuna does indeed fit the criteria to be considered a Maharathi. His exceptional skill, the recognition from Bhishma Pitamaha, and his unmatched achievements on the battlefield all support this conclusion. While the term Atimaharathi is not used in the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s status as a Maharathi is well-documented and widely accepted.