CharacterKuru royal family
Duryodhana: FAQ & Sources
दुर्योधनEldest of the Kauravas; leader of the Kaurava army. Also called Suyodhana, Kauravya, Dhartarashtra.
Duryodhana is the eldest Kaurava and the leader of the opposing army at Kurukshetra. His refusal to share the kingdom brings about the war in which the Bhagavad Gita is spoken.
RoleEldest of the Kauravas; leader of the Kaurava army
AllegianceThe Kauravas
GroupKuru royal family
KingdomHastinapura
FatherDhritarashtra
MotherGandhari
Frequently asked questions
Who was Duryodhana?
The eldest of the hundred Kaurava brothers, son of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, and the leader of the Kaurava army.
Why did Duryodhana refuse to share the kingdom?
He believed the throne was his as the eldest son of the reigning king and would not accept Yudhishthira as heir.
What does Duryodhana say in the Bhagavad Gita?
In 1.2 to 1.11 he speaks to Drona, names the warriors on both sides and says his army is guarded by Bhishma.
How did Duryodhana die?
Bhima broke his thigh with a mace blow in their duel on the eighteenth day of the war.
Who was Duryodhana's closest friend?
Karna, whom he made king of Anga.
Sources and further reading
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