Bharata: The anti-NEPOTISM king of ancient India

Over the last few years, the word ‘nepotism’ has been in the news continuously. It all started with actress Kangana Ranaut accusing filmmaker and producer Karan Johar for being the ‘flag-bearer’ of nepotism in the film industry.

Following this, there have been countless debates online and offline on nepotism and whether it is actually a bane.

If one looks closely, nepotism hasn’t been limited to the film industry in India. Among many other professions, it is found the most in politics, in which there are countless examples.

Similarly, nepotism was an accepted norm in politics of the past. In fact, right from the ancient era, it was a given that a king would be surpassed by his eldest son, irrespective of whether he was capable of handling such responsibilities.

Even we, as readers, have become immune to read about a king handing over the responsibility of running the affairs to his eldest son. In case the son is incapable of handling the responsibility, the king would appoint some other son since people used to bear numerous children then.

But amidst this, king Bharata was an extremely rare exception. Bharata was an ancestor of Pandavas and Kauravas. He was an idealistic king and a man of principles. This coupled with his fearless and brave nature, he had conquered almost the entire land which is today’s India. The land thus came to be known as Bharata.

Like every king, Bharata also grew older. So, it was necessary for him to appoint his successor out of his 9 sons born out of three wives. Everyone, including his family to people in the kingdom, were sure that this will be an easy task considering Bharata had 9 sons.

Also read: Lessons from Mahabharata: Can a non-violent person engage in war?

The day of the announcement came. Bharata gave a shock to his family members and others in the court when he announced that none of his 9 sons were capable enough to be the next king. Obviously, his sons were disappointed and enraged while Bharata’s mother was saddened. But Bharata was unmoved.

Just imagine. Bharata could have easily ensured that the control of the great kingdom lied in his family. But he was not only honest but also brave enough to stand by his honesty even if it meant taking a decision that would trigger mammoth opposition.

Bharata’s decision is considered as the first incident of democracy in ancient India.

Interestingly, Bharata chose Abhimanyu as the next king who was just a commoner and had no royal lineage. Abhimanyu is also referred to as Bhumanyu in some texts.

Also read: Was a woman responsible for Mahabharata war?

King Bharata’s story is highly relevant even today. It once again proves that Mahabharata will be relevant in every era as long as there is human life on earth.

Note: The entire saga of king Bharata choosing his heir is a part of the first episode of BR Chopra’s classic television series Mahabharat.

You can see it below: