his fall.

Born to King Shantanu and the river goddess Ganga, he was originally named Devavrata and designated the heir-apparent to the throne. However, he renounced his claim and took a vow of lifelong celibacy to facilitate his father's marriage to Satyavati. This sacrifice earned him the title Bhishma, meaning "the one who undertakes a severe vow," and he was blessed with Ichcha Mrityu--the boon of choosing his time