Maharathi : Classification Of Warriors In Mahabharat
The Mahabharat, one of the greatest epics of history, describes warriors in different classes based on their skills, strength, battle experience, strategic intelligence, and mastery of formations. The ranks of warriors were categorized into Padatik, Ashvarohi, Gaja, ArdhaRathi, Rathi, AtiRathi, Maharathi, Ati-Maharathi, and Mahamaharathi.
Maharathi and More Classes Of Warriors
1. Padatik (Infantrymen)
2. Ashvarohi (Horsemen)
A cavalry soldier riding a horse, known as an Ashvarohi, was equivalent to 12 infantrymen. They were agile and crucial in quick attacks and battlefield maneuvers.
3. Gaja (Elephant Warriors)
A soldier mounted on an elephant, called a Gaja, was equal to 12 horsemen. Elephants provided a strategic advantage due to their size, strength, and ability to trample enemy lines.
4. ArdhaRathi
An ArdhaRathi was a warrior on a chariot, considered equal to one Gaja. These warriors had moderate battle experience and were in the early stages of mastering advanced warfare.
5. Rathi
A Rathi was a skilled warrior on a chariot, equivalent to 12 ArdhaRathis. Rathis were battle-hardened and had a fearsome reputation on the battlefield. Notable Rathis in Mahabharat include:
Dushasana – The younger brother of Duryodhana, known for his combat skills.
Shikhandi – Instrumental in Bhishma’s downfall but lacked individual war dominance.
6. AtiRathi
An AtiRathi was a warrior capable of fighting 12 Rathis at once. They had superior battle skills and expertise in multiple weapons. Some AtiRathis include:
Duryodhana – The Kaurava prince trained by Balarama.
- Bhima – Known for his brute strength and mastery in mace fighting.
Nakula and Sahadeva – The twin Pandavas, skilled in sword and spear combat.
Drupada – The King of Panchala, a seasoned warrior.
7. Maharathi
A Maharathi was an extraordinary warrior capable of battling 12 AtiRathis simultaneously. They mastered divine weapons, battle formations, and war strategies. Some of the greatest Maharathis in Mahabharat were:
Bhishma – The supreme commander of the Kaurava army.
Karna – The most powerful and invincible warrior, possessing divine weapons.
Dronacharya – The guru of both Kauravas and Pandavas, an expert in warfare.
Arjuna – The great archer, blessed with divine weapons and guided by Krishna.
Ashwatthama – The son of Dronacharya, blessed with immortality and unparalleled skills.
Abhimanyu – The young warrior who fought heroically in the Chakravyuha.
Ghatotkacha – The mighty Rakshasa warrior with magical powers.
Bhagadatta – The King of Pragjyotisha, expert in elephant warfare and divine astras.
8. Ati-Maharathi
An Ati-Maharathi was a warrior equivalent to 12 Maharathis. They were among the most formidable warriors, possessing divine abilities, extreme battle intelligence, and near-invincibility.
9. Mahamaharathi
A Mahamaharathi was a warrior who could fight 24 Ati-Maharathis at once. These were the highest-ranked warriors in Mahabharat. Only a few warriors were considered Mahamaharathis:
Lord Krishna – Though he did not actively fight, his divine power was unmatched.
Parashurama – The immortal sage and master of warfare who trained Bhishma, Drona, and Karna.
