Which Kaurava was killed by Bhima in the final mace duel?

Duryodhana was the Kaurava killed by Bhima in the Mahabharata’s final mace duel. Their combat took place after the Kurukshetra War, when Duryodhana emerged from hiding and agreed to face his longtime rival.

Both warriors had been trained in mace fighting by Balarama, Krishna’s elder brother. Duryodhana was a highly skilled fighter and initially gained the advantage. The duel was supposed to follow strict rules, including a prohibition against striking below the waist.

During the fight, Krishna reminded Bhima of his oath to break Duryodhana’s thigh, made after Duryodhana’s humiliation of Draupadi and his role in the Kuru court’s abuses. Bhima then struck Duryodhana on the thigh, shattering it. The blow was considered unlawful in mace combat, and Balarama angrily objected, but Krishna defended Bhima by recalling Duryodhana’s own wrongdoing.

Duryodhana did not die instantly. Mortally wounded, he remained defiant and authorized Ashwatthama to lead the surviving Kaurava forces. He later succumbed to his injuries.