Sudhana

Also known as: Prince Sudhana · Family: North Panchāla · Role: prince · First appears: Chapter V

Born at Hastināpura to King Dhana and his wife, Sudhana was named at his birth-feast on the twenty-first day. His father bestowed three wives upon him, and later Phalaka presented him with Manoharā, whom he brought to Hastināpura. When King Dhana ordered him to subdue the rebellious mountaineers, the Yaksha host of Pānchika helped him accomplish it without battle.

After King Dhana caused Manoharā to flee, Sudhana learned she was gone and resolved to search for her. His father ordered watchers to keep him in the city, but Sudhana escaped by night. At the Rishi’s hermitage, he received Manoharā’s ring and directions; he reached Druma’s domain, reunited with her, and Druma gave her to him as his wife. Sudhana returned with Manoharā to Hastināpura, where King Dhana invested him with regal power.