In Hindu mythology, Arjuna’s legendary bow is Gandiva.
Gandiva is the supernatural bow most closely associated with Arjuna in the Mahabharata. The epic describes it as extraordinarily powerful and difficult for ordinary warriors to wield. Arjuna receives Gandiva from Agni, the fire god, during the burning of the Khandava forest, with the help of Krishna.
The bow becomes a defining symbol of Arjuna’s identity as an archer. It is accompanied by inexhaustible quivers, allowing him to fight prolonged battles without running out of arrows. During the Kurukshetra War, Gandiva is repeatedly presented as part of Arjuna’s formidable military equipment.
Gandiva is often confused with other famous divine bows. Pinaka belongs to Shiva, Sharanga is associated with Vishnu or Krishna, and Kodanda is traditionally linked with Rama. These weapons belong to different figures and should not be treated as alternate names for Arjuna’s bow.