dṛtarāṣṭras tu mahataḥ putraśatasya pītāmahaḥ

dṛtarāṣṭraḥ (Dritarashtra) tu (indeed) pītāmahaḥ (the great-grandfather) mahataḥ (of the great one) putraśatasya (of the hundred sons)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, dṛtarāṣṭras tu mahataḥ putraśatasya pītāmahaḥ, on the surface appears to convey a factual piece of information about Dṛtarāṣṭra being the grandfather of a hundred great sons in the Mahābhārata. However, when viewed through the lens of non-dualistic Advaita Vedānta, it invites a deeper reflection on the nature of reality and identity. According to Śaṅkarācārya, the ultimate reality, Brahman, is the essence that underlies all manifestations, including the relationships between grandfathers, sons, and their descendants. The specific number 'hundred' and the descriptor 'great' can be seen as symbolic, pointing towards the infinite and the great manifestations of Brahman. This interpretation aligns with Śaṅkarācārya's emphasis on the illusory nature of the world (māyā) and the sole reality of Brahman. In his commentary on the Brahmasūtra, Śaṅkarācārya often cites verses from the Upaniṣads and other texts to establish the identity of the individual self (ātman) with Brahman, suggesting that all distinctions, such as those made in this verse, are ultimately subsumed in the realization of this unity.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, particularly through the lens of Viśiṣṭādvaita Vedānta as espoused by Rāmānujācārya, this verse can be seen as illustrating the dependence of all beings on the divine. Dṛtarāṣṭra, as a figure, represents the jīva, or the individual soul, which is inherently related to and dependent on Īśvara, the supreme lord. The 'hundred great sons' can symbolize the various capabilities and aspects of the jīva that are gifts from Īśvara, highlighting the paternal and providential nature of God. Rāmānujācārya's emphasis on the real and essential difference between the soul and God, while affirming their inseparable relationship, offers a framework in which to understand Dṛtarāṣṭra's role as a grandfather and, by extension, the role of Īśvara as the ultimate grandfather of all souls. This interpretation underscores the Vaiṣṇava theme of surrender to and dependence on the divine will, as well as the inherent worth and dignity of every individual as a child of God.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, often emphasized the universal and practical application of ancient Indian wisdom. This verse, when seen through the eyes of Neo-Vedānta, can be interpreted as a call to recognize the inherent greatness in every individual. Dṛtarāṣṭra's hundred sons represent the diverse potentials and strengths that lie within human society. The description of them as 'great' underscores the importance of nurturing and recognizing these potentials, mirroring Vivekānanda's own emphasis on the latent divinity within every person. Furthermore, the familial relationship highlighted in the verse can be expanded to symbolize the global family, emphasizing unity, mutual respect, and the recognition of a shared human heritage. S. Rādhākrishnan, in his philosophical writings, similarly sought to integrate Indian philosophical thought with contemporary issues, suggesting that such verses offer a basis for ethical and moral reflections on community, responsibility, and the pursuit of human excellence. This approach aligns with the broader Neo-Vedānta project of making ancient wisdom accessible and relevant to modern challenges and aspirations.

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