One-line: mother of Karna and three Pandavas, carrying one of the family line’s deepest secrets.
First appears: Book 2, in Book 2 retelling.
Who they are: Kunti is central to the Pandava branch of the family tree. Before marriage she receives a mantra and bears Karna by the Sun. Later, because Pandu is cursed, Kunti uses the mantra to bring divine sons into the dynasty.
What they do that matters:
- Bears Karna before marriage.
- Uses Durvasa’s mantra to have Yudhishthira, Bhima, and Arjuna.
- Shares the mantra with Madri, leading to Nakula and Sahadeva.
Other names: Pritha
Family / lineage (when relevant): Wife of Pandu; mother of Karna, Yudhishthira, Bhima, and Arjuna.