King Shantanu

Marriage with Satyavati

King Shantanu was unable to meet this condition as his son Devavrata was the heir to the throne and was forlorn. Devavrata, however, realised the cause of his sorrow and for the sake of his father, gave his word to the chief that he would renounce all his claims to the throne, in favour of Satyavati's children. To reassure the skeptical chief further, Devavrata also vowed lifelong celibacy to ensure that future generations descended from Satyavati would also not be challenged by his offspring. Upon hearing this vow he immediately agreed to the marriage of Satyavati and Shantanu. Devavrata was then named as Bhishma (one who has taken a terrible vow) by the celestials. Devavrata returned to Hastinapura with Satyavati. Shantanu, unaware of his son's vow, married Satyavati. Eventually Shantanu learnt of his son's vow and was heartbroken. Later he became highly impressed with his son's love and affection and gave him a boon that he will only die if and when he decides to. Shantanu and Satyavati went on to have two sons, Chitrāngada and Vichitravirya. After Shantanu's death, Chitrangada became king of Hastinapura.