Yudhishthira, a central character in the Indian epic Mahabharata, is known as Dharmaputra for several reasons that highlight his association with righteousness and virtue:
Son of Dharma (Yama): Yudhishthira is called Dharmaputra, meaning "son of Dharma," because he is believed to be the son of the god Dharma (Yama) born through the divine intervention of Kunti, his mother. This divine origin symbolizes his inherent connection to righteousness and moral values.
Embodiment of Dharma: Throughout the Mahabharata, Yudhishthira is portrayed as an embodiment of dharma (righteousness and moral duty). His actions, decisions, and thoughts consistently reflect a deep commitment to ethical principles and justice. His adherence to dharma often puts him in difficult situations, yet he remains steadfast in his commitment to righteousness.
Commitment to Truth: Yudhishthira's unwavering commitment to truth (satya) is another reason for his title. He is renowned for his honesty and integrity, often making personal sacrifices to uphold the truth. This virtue is a fundamental aspect of dharma, further reinforcing his identity as Dharmaputra.
Role as a Just Ruler: Yudhishthira's reign as the king of Indraprastha and later Hastinapura is marked by his fair and just governance. He ensures that his rule is guided by dharma, making decisions that are beneficial for his subjects and maintaining social order and justice.
Moral Challenges: The Mahabharata presents numerous moral dilemmas and challenges faced by Yudhishthira, testing his adherence to dharma. His responses to these challenges, though sometimes controversial, are driven by a sincere effort to remain true to his principles. His famous episode of gambling and the subsequent exile of the Pandavas are examples where his commitment to dharma is tested.
Wisdom and Knowledge: Yudhishthira is also known for his wisdom and knowledge of scriptures and moral philosophy. His discourses on dharma with various sages, including his conversations with the Yaksha (in the Yaksha Prashna episode), highlight his deep understanding of ethical and moral issues.
In summary, Yudhishthira is known as Dharmaputra due to his divine parentage, his unwavering commitment to righteousness, truth, and justice, and his role as a just ruler and wise philosopher. These qualities make him a paragon of dharma, embodying the ideals of virtue and moral duty in the Mahabharata.