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As all devotees of Shyam Baba know, the mighty Barbareek, in his later life, came to be known as Baba Shyam of Khatu.
Barbareek was the grandson of the strongest Pandava Bhima, and his wife Hidimba. He was the son of Ghatotkach and Mauravi.
It is said that at birth, Barbareek’s hair was as thick and fierce as a lion’s mane — hence the name “Barbareek”.
Even as a child, Barbareek displayed great bravery and brilliance. He learned the art of warfare from his mother and Lord Krishna, mastering it completely.
A Divine Offering to Lord Shiva
Once, while meditating upon Lord Shiva, Barbareek noticed blood oozing from one of Shiva's eyes. Without hesitation, he plucked out one of his own eyes and offered it to the Lord. Soon, blood began to flow from Shiva’s second eye as well. Again, Barbareek sacrificed his second eye.
Pleased with such unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva appeared and blessed him with three miraculous arrows. Thus, Barbareek came to be known as Teen Baan Dhari (Bearer of Three Arrows).
Life Lesson:
Unmatched devotion and commitment are essential for receiving divine or extraordinary powers.
The Mahabharata Connection and the Oath
When news of the war between the Kauravas and Pandavas reached Barbareek, he decided to participate.
He sought his mother's blessings. She advised him to side with the weaker side in the battle, believing the Pandavas might lose due to the powerful Kaurava army led by warriors like Dronacharya and Bheeshma.
Barbareek thus pledged to support the losing side — a promise that led to the famous phrase:
“Haare Ka Sahara Baba Shyam Hamara” (Baba Shyam is the support of the defeated).
The Test by Lord Krishna
Lord Krishna, wanting to test Barbareek, disguised himself as a Brahmin and stopped him on the way to the battlefield.
He asked, “How can you fight a massive war with just three arrows?”
Barbareek confidently explained that one arrow alone was enough to destroy the entire enemy army — and the arrow would then return to his quiver. Using all three arrows, he said, could wipe out the entire universe.
Life Lesson:
Knowing your capabilities and tools deeply builds true self-confidence.
The disguised Krishna pointed toward a Peepal tree and asked him to pierce all its leaves with a single arrow.
Barbareek prayed and released the arrow. In the meantime, Krishna secretly hid one leaf under his foot.
When Krishna claimed one leaf was untouched, Barbareek said, “Please lift your foot and check — it’s already pierced.”
Amazed, Krishna realized that no one could match the valor of this warrior.
Life Lesson:
Ensure 100% task completion and keep proof – it gets you noticed.
