2. The Marriage to King Shantanu

King Shantanu falls in love with Satyavati, but her father demands that her children, not Shantanu’s existing son (Bhishma), inherit the throne.

Bhishma, devoted to his father, takes a vow of celibacy to remove any claims to the throne, ensuring Satyavati’s lineage reigns.

This moment sets the foundation for the future conflicts of the Mahabharata, as Bhishma’s sacrifice creates deep instability in the dynasty.

Satyavati, though grateful, begins to understand the complexities of royal life and the costs of ambition.