BOOK5 UDYOGA PARVA
MAHA BHARAT
UDYOGA PARVA PRADHAMAA SVAASA (FIRST CHAPTER)
Vaisampaayana continued to tell Janamejaya the
story of Mahabharata thus:
The marriage of Uttara and Abhimanyu was
performed on a grand scale. Four days have elapsed. One day, Dharmaja,
followed by his brothers and his sons, visited the court of King Virata.
There, King Virata, King Drupada, Sri Krishna, Bala rama, his brothers and
other invitees to the marriage were chatting with each other.
Sri Krishna addressed the gathering thus:
It is known to you all, how this Yudhishthira was
deceitfully defeated at dice game by Sakuni and how he was robbed of his
kingdom and how a stipulation was made by him concerning his exile in the
forest.
As per the stipulated agreement, they spent 12 years in forest and one year in exile.
You all know about the character and conduct of
Pandavas. That being so, it is for you to consider what will be for the good
of both Yudhishthira and Duryodhana, and what, as regards the Kauravas and
the Pandavas, will be consistent with the rules of righteousness and,
propriety.
The virtuous king Yudhishthira would not
unrighteously acquire even the celestial kingdom of Indra. But righteously he
would accept even a single village.
Pandavas got a part of kingdom as ancestral
property. Later, they performed Rajasooya Yaga and expanded their kingdom.
But their entire kingdom was grabbed by Suyodhana in a dice game played by
Sakuni.
This is well known to all of us how Dharmaja and
his brothers passed a life of unendurable hardships. Still Dharmaja did not
get angry. He tolerated all the insults caused to him. He never intended to
cause any harm to Kauravas.
Therefore, the entire Kourava kingdom belongs to
Both Kouravas and Pandavas. Both are entitled to rule it. Now, we have to
take a wise decision in this regard. I will tell my opinion.
The Pandavas have always had a regard for truth.
They have fulfilled their promise in all respects. Now they intend to show
their prowess to the outside world.
Suyodhana is now thinking to conquer Pandavas
while they are helpless. He is consolidalting his army. However powerful he
may be, without sufficient army, one cannot conquer the enemy. Thereofore, I
request all of you, who intend to help Pandavas, to express your solidarity.
Then only Pandavas will be ready for the war with Kauravas. This is our prime
task.
What Duryodhana is now thinking is not exactly
known, nor what he may do. When the mind of the other side is not known, what
opinion can be formed by you as to what is best to be done? Therefore, let a
person, virtuous and honest and of respectable birth, an able ambassador, set
out to beseech them mildly, for inducing them to give half the kingdom to
Yudhishthira. If Suryodhana agrees for our proposal and give back half of the
kingdom to Pandavas, it is well and good. Otherwise, we will think about the
future course of action." said Sri Krishna.
Then Balarama rose to his feet and spoke thus:
“What Sri Krishna said is just and proper. I entirely agree with him as it is
agreeable to both sides. Besides that, it is righteous. We can pacify both
sides in this way. Pandavas lost their half share in their ancentral kingdom.
They are now claiming it. It would be better if Suyodhana gives back their
half share in the kingdom and satisfy himself with the remaining kingdom.
With this proposal no harm will be caused to anybody. Pandavas also give up
their enmity towards Kouravas and mingle with Kouravas as relatives.
Therefore, we have to send one virtuous person to
Suyodhana with a view to amicably settle the matter between Kouravas and
Pandavas. He should ascertain what is in the mind of Duryodhana and explain
the views of Yudhishthira.
Because of his soft mindedness, Yudhishtira was
won over by Suyodhana. As Suyodhana was not well-versed in Dice game, he
deputed his uncle, Sakuni to play on his behalf. As Sakuni was an expert in
Dice game, he won the bet. Therefore, I do not find any fault in the
behaviour of Suyodhana. Therefore, we cannot blame Suyodhana.” said Balarama.
Satyaki rose to his feet with great anger. “Is it
just on your part to speak like this? You need not be blamed. Those who are
hearing your words patiently that Suyodhana is a virtuous man, should be
blamed. What? What are you saying? Did Dharmaja himself play diace game with
Suyodhana for fun sake? Did they not invite Dharmaja for Dice game and win
the bet by playing fraud? Can anybody find fault with Dharmaja?
As Pandavas have fulfilled the agreement, their
half share in the kingdom has to be given. For their half share in the
Kingdom, they need not beg anybody. To acquire kingdom by war is a virtue of
Kshatriya. If Suyodhana does not heed our words, he will taste the power of
my arrows. Are there any warriors equivalent to Bhima and Arjuna? If myself,
Bheema and Arjuna are in the warfield, can anybody stand before us? If
Nakula, Sahadeva, Panchala, Vrushni and other Kings are engaged in war,
Suyodhana and his brothers will be reduced to ashes. Do you mean to say that
Virata is an ordinary King. Therefore, war is imminent.
In the meanwhile, you can send any suitable
person to Suyodhana. But he should not beg for their due share in the
kingdom. If Suyodhana gives us the due share in the kingdom we will receive
it. Otherwise, we will meet him in the impending war.” said Satyaki.
Then Drupada rose to his feet and said:
“Satyaki well said. Balarama’s words are not
acceptable. As has been said by Satyaki if Suyodhana does not give half share
in the kingdom, the last resort is nothing but war. Bheeshma and Drona will
naturally support Suyodhana as they are sailing with him. Dhrutarashtra is
more affectionate towards his son. Karna and others will always praise
Suyodhana. Therefore, Suyodhana will never heed to our words for peace. War
is imminent. We have to send word to all the kings who are in our favour,
inviting them to help us in the war. Suyodhana might have already been on
this job. Rightminded persons, however, respond to the request of those that
first beseech them. Therefore, we have to invite all the kings even earlier
than Suyodhana and seek their help. Let our men be sent to Salya, Kekaya,
Drushtaketu, Jarasandha’s son and other kings seeking their help in the war.
This is my sincere advice.
In the meanwhile, I will send my Chief Priest, a
virtuous brahmin, to Dhrutarashtra to explain our stand clearly. He can speak
tactfully with Dhrutarashtra, his sons, Bheeshma Drona and others.” said
Drupada.
Then Sri Krishna told Dharmaja “Dharmaja! follow
the words of Drupada. We have all come for the marriage. It is not proper to
stay here any more. We will go back. King Drupada! you are an elderly person.
We all will treat you as our Guru. Dhrutarashtra and Bheeshma will always
respect your words. Both Drona and Krupacharya are your friends. Therefore,
you have to take the responsibility of sending a virtuous person to
Dhrutarashtra. We all will abide by your word. I request all of you to go
back to your respective places and make preparations for the ensuing war
between Pandavas and Kouravas." said Sri Krishna
Accordingly Sri Krishna, Balarama and others went
back to Dwaraka. King Virata and King Drupada are engaged in making
preparatiosn for war.
King Drupada called his Cheif Priest and said: “O
virtuous Brahmin! You are distinguished both for age and learning. You know
what kind of man Suyodhana is, and what kind of man also is Yudhishthira. It
was with Dhrutarashtra’s knowledge that the Pandavas were deceived by his sons.
If you speak words of righteousness to Dhrutarashtra, you will certainly gain
his heart. You have heard what Sri Krishna said. You have to convey those
words tactfully and timely to Dhrutarashtra, Bheeshma and others. If by God’s
grace, Suyodhana agrees for our proposal, it will be well and good.” said
Drupada. After taking leave from Drupada, that virtuous brahmin left for
Hastinapuram.
Here in Hastinapura, such kind of talks were
going on . Suyodhana got an idea of sending a person to Sri Krishna for help.
Later, he himself thought of going to Dwaraka and meet Sri Krishna. On the
same day, Arjuna also came down to Dwaraka to meet Sri Krishna. Both Arjuna
and Suyodhana met at the palace of Sri Krishna.
At that time Sri Krishna was sleeping on a couch.
Suyodhana arrived earlier than Arjuna. He chose to sit on a seat kept near
the head of Sri Krishna. Arjuna who arrived later sat on a seat kept at the
feet of Sri Krishna.
Sri Krishna woke up and first saw Arjuna who was
sitting near his feet. Then he saw Suyodhana. Sri Krishna greeted both of
them and asked them about the purpose of their visit.
Suyodhana said: “Krishna! Arjuna and myself are
both equally your friends. Of course, some relaltionship also is there. I
have been the first to come to you. Right-minded persons take up the cause of
him who comes first to them. Hence I request you to lend me your help in the
impending war.”asked Suyodhana.
“That you have come first, O Suyodhana, I agree
but I have seen Arjuna first. Anyhow I will lend my assistance to both of
you. There is a large number of warriors, ten thousand in number, rivalling
me in strength and known as Narayanas, and who fight in the battle, are on
one side. And I alone, resolved not to fight, laying down arms, will be on
the otherside. But who is younger should have the first choice. Therefore,
Arjuna, choose either me or the ten thousand warriors. Arjuna, Choice is
yours.” said Sri Krishna.
Arjuna selected Sri Krishna and Suyodhana
selected for himself the entire army. Suyodhana was exceedingly delighted for
having secured the army possessed of terrible prowess. Then Suyodhana
proceeded to the palace of Balarama. Balarama received Suyodhana and greeted
him. Suyodhana requested Balarama for his help in the war.
Balarama said: “Suyodhana! Once I supported you
and your actions. But many opposed it. I kept quiet. Therefore I dont want to
take anybody’s side. I will be aloof.” said Balarama. Suyodhana then
approached Krutavarma and sought his help. Krutavarma promised to join
Suyodhana with one Akshouhini of army. Then Suyodhana returned back to
Hastinapuram.
Sri Krishna asked Arjuna “What Arjuna! what is
this! How foolish you are? Why you have chosen me, an unarmed one, without
choosing ten thousand strong army. In what way it is helpful to you” said Sri
Krishna.
“Krishna! you are unconquerable. Whereever you
are, that side will be victorious. You will get the name and fame. If you are
on the otherside, it is very difficult to defeat you. The help of a virtuous
person like you is always desirable for us. Hence I chose you. You need not
take part in the war. If you are on our side, we will won. Since a long time
I have got a desire. You should be my charioteer and bless me with success.
That is all what I want” said Arjuna.
Sri Krishna smiled at Arjuna and said: “Arjuna!
It is my duty to fulfil your desire. In the impending war, I will be your
charioteer. Letus go to Dharmaja and decide the future course of action.”
said Sri Krishna. Then Sri Krishna and Arjuna arrived at Upaplaavyam.
The messengers sent by Dharmaja met King Salya
and informed him about the war. Then King Salya started along with his army
to Upaplaavyam. Suyodhana came to know about the arrival of King Salya.
Suyodhana made all arrangements, like sumptuous food, luxurious beds, temporary
residences for the comfortable stay of King Salya whereever he made a halt.
King Salya was thinking that those arrangements
were made by the officials on behalf of Dharmaja. He was very much satisfied
with the arrangements made. He ordered his men to call those who are making
those arrangements.
King Suyodhana appeared before King Salya,
intgroduced himself and said that he made all those arrangements. King Salya
was very much satisfied and asked him to choose whatever he wants. Waiting
for this opportunity, Suyodhana said with folded hands: “King Salya! me and
Pandavas are equal to you. Bless me also with your help.” asked Suyodhana.
King Salya agreed for it and said: “I am going to
meet Dharmaja. After meeting him, I will come and join you.” said Salya.
Then King Salya went to Upaplaavyam and met Dharmaja. Dharmaja received King Salya with due honors. King Salya said: "Dharmaja! You have completed Aranya Vasa and Ajnata vasa. Your virtues saved you. On the way Suyodhana met me and sought for my help. I agreed for it. So what to do now” asked Salya.
Dharmaja said: “It is just and proper on your
part to bless Suyodhana for the services he had done. You have to extend your
help to him. But please bless me also. In the impending war, Sri Krishna will
be the charioteer of Arjuna. On the side of Suyodhana, Karna is the
equivalent warrior. Hence you should be the charioteer of Karna. But during
critical times, you have to discourage Karna and discourge him with your
pungent words and save Arjuna from Karna. Dont think that this is an untoward
act. Please help us” requested Dharmaja.
King Salya understood the situation. He also
thought that it is good. “Yudhishtira! What you said is correct. If Suyodhana
requests me to be the charioteer of Karna, I will certainly accept it and do
as you say. Not only this, I will do whatever you like. How any body can
forget the insult meted out by you in the open assembly and also in the
forests and in exile.
Not only you, at times, even Devendra also suffered like this.” said Salya.
Then Dharmaja asked Salya “O King Salya! kindly
tell me how Devendra also suffered exile like us” asked Dharmaja.
King Salya continued to say:
"In the ancient days, there was a saint
called Tvashta. He was a righteous man. He was having enmity with Indra. He
created a three-headed creature named Visvaroopa. Aspiring the post of
Indira, Visvaroopa was doing penance. Indira was afraid of him. He thought he
will certainly replace him. He sent apsarasas (divine ladies) to spoil his
penance but in vain.
As a last resort, Indra killed Visvaroopa. Indra
suppressed that killing for a period of one year. Somehow it was known to one
and all. Everbody condemned the action of Indira. To get rid of that sin, he
performed several religious ceremonies and distributed his sin of killing a
brahmin, to all the seas, ladies in this universe equally and got rid of the
sin. Indra was very happy.
Tvashta came to know all these developments. He
was very much annoyed. He became angry. He performed a Homa (sacred fire) out
of which, he created a magnificent power in human form. He was called
Vruthra. Tvashta told Vruthra about the fate of Visvaroopa and ordered him to
attack Indra and conquer him.
Accordingly Vruthra waged war against Indra and
defeated him. Vruthra opened his mouth and swallowed Indra. But Indra
miraculously transformed himself into a smallest creature and when Vruthra
opened his mouth, Indra jumped out of his mouth.
Again there was a fight between Indra and
Vruthrasura. Unable to attack Vruthra, Indra along with Devatas and sages and
saints, fled away to Mandhara mountain and remained there as rufugees. They
were all thinking about ways and means to kill Vruthrasura.
All of them approached Lord Vishnu and prayed for
his help. Vishnu said: ‘I am no doubt bound to do what is for your good. I
shall, therefore, tell you a plan to kill Vrutra. All sages and saints shall
goback to the place where Vritra is and adopt towards him a conciliatory
policy. You will thus succeed in overthrowing him. By virtue of my power, I
shall enter into Vajrayudha and remain invisible. At appropriate time, Indira
will kill Vruthra. Let there be no delay in effecting a peace between Indra
and Vritra.” said Vishnu.
Then all of them approached Vritra and tried for
reconciliation between Vritra and Indra. All the sages and saints said:”O
Vritra! Indra is unconquerable. You cannot overpower simply with your
prowess. Likewise, Indra also cannot won over you. Therefore, it is better if
both of you come to an agreement and make friendship and be happy.” said a
great saint.
“I have no objection to make friendship with
Indra but on one condition. You should bless me like this: Either Indra or
any god do not kill me either by a dry or wet object, either by stone or by
woodden object, either by a weapon or missile, either in day time or night
time. If you agree for this,I have no objection to make friendship with
Indira. All the saints agreed for this proposal and effected friendship
between Indra and Vritra. But Indra was always searching for a loop hole to
kill Vritra. .
One day evening, Vritra, unarmed, was strolling
on the sea shore. It was neither day nor night. Indra thought that was the proper
time to kill him. As Indra thought of all this, bearing Vishnu in mind, he
beheld at that time in the sea a mass of foam as large as a hill. Indra
thought “This is neither dry, nor wet, nor is it a weapon; let me hurl it at
Vritra. Without doubt, he will die immediately.” Indra threw at Vritra that
mass of foam blended with his Vijrayudha. Vishnu, having entered within that
foam, put an end to the life of Vritra. Vitra was killed.
All the divine personalities, sages and saints
praised Indra and glorified him with joy. Indra went back to Indra loka. But
all the living beings in all the Lokas turned against Indra and cursed him
for committing Brahma Hatya. Indra could not bear that sin. He was unseated.
Indra went to Nishadhaacala mountain and took refuge.
All the Divine Bodies and Sages and saints were
in search of a proper personality to occupy the seat of Indra. In Bhooloka,
there was a king called Nahusha. He performed 100 Asvamedha Yagas and was
qualified to occupy the seat of Indra. All the divine bodies and divine
saints approached Nahusha and offered him to occupy the seat of Indra. But
Nahusha did not agree.
He said: “I am feeble. I am not capable of
protecting you. A most powerful person should be your Indira because Indra
should always possessed of great strength” said Nahusha.
“Nahusha! you need not worry about it. We all
will confer on you all our powers. With those divine powers, you can rule as
Indra.” said the divine bodies. Then Yama, Varuna, Agni and other divine
bodies conferred their powers on Nahusha. Nahusha became more powerful. Then
Nahusha was crowned as Indra.
In the initial times, Nahusha was ruling all the
Three Universes with his righteous character. All Kinnaras, Kimpurushas,
Garudas, Gandharvas, Siddhas, Vidyaadharas, were making their offerings to
the new Indra. All the divine saints were serving Nahusha. Tumbura and Narada
was singing before him. Rambha, Oorvasi, Menaka, Tilottama and other divine
ladies were dancing before him entertaining him. While enjoying such divine plealsures,
Nahusha’s mind became vicious. He always indulged in sensual pleasures.
While Nahusha was thus enjoying himself in
Devaloka, on one occasion Sachi, who was the favourite queen of Indra, came
in his sight. And that vicious soul, having looked at her, said to the
courtiers, "Why do not this goddess, the queen of Indra, attend upon me?
I am the monarch of the gods, and also the ruler of the worlds. Let Sachi
visit me at my house.” ordered Nahusha.
Saddened at hearing this, Sachi said to
Brihaspati, "Protect me, O Brahmana, from this Nahusha.” prayed Sachi.
Brahspati assured her safety. “Sachi! Dont fear. Your husband will certainly
meet you.” consoled Brahaspati.
Now Nahusha came to hear that Indra’s queen had
taken refuge with Brihaspati, He became highly enraged. “Afterall I ordered
one lady to come to me. How Brihaspati will stop it. How can he save her.”
asked Nahusha.”
"You are now Indra. It is not just on your
part to have lust on Indra’s wife or any other’s wife.” said the divine
bodies.”
"What about your previous Indira? Did he not
lust Ahalya, Goutama’s wife? Did he not enjoy sensual pleasures with her
while her husband was away. Why all of you kept quiet at that time without
preaching these sermans? Ask Brihaspati to send Sachi to my palace immediately”
ordered Nahusha.
Then all the divine bodies and rishis went to
Brihaspati and requested him “You know that Nahusha is our King. He is
entitled to enjoy all pleasures including the wife of Indra. Therefore please
send Sachi to Nahusha”
Brahspati grew angry: “What? What are you
talking? Nahusha has a desire on Sachi. You are supporting him. Is it your
duty? Is it in the interest of one and all. You know what Lord Brahma said:
If anybody, who is able to save a refugee, does not save him, it is a sin. I
shall not abandon Sachi who sought my protection.” said Brahaspati firmly.
Then he told Sachi “Sachi! you do one thing. You
better go to Nahusha and seek some time to join him. For the present the
problem will be solved” said Brihaspati.
Sachi accordingly approached Nahusha and said: “O
Nahusha! I am the wife of Indra. My name is Sachi. My husband’s whereabouts
are not known. Without knowing his whereabouts, how can I join you. Let us
not hasten. Please give me some time.” requested Sachi. Nahusha gladly agreed
for the proposal.
Then all the divine personalities and divine
saints met Lord Vishnu and sought his advice. Lord Vishnu said “Let Indra
perform Asvamedha Yaga. His Brahma Hatya sin will vanish.” said Vishnu.
Then all of them approached Indira. Indra
performed Asvamedha Yaga and divided the sin among trees and rivers and
mountains and the earth and women and got rid of the sin caused by killing
Vrithra. Indira returned to Indra Loka. Indra looked at Nahusha who is
sitting on the seat of India. Indira thought that Nahusha was unapproachable
and unconquerable by virtue of the boons and powers the Rishis and divine
bodies had granted to him. He thought that he was no match to Nahusha.
Without informing anybody, even to Sachi, Indra went into exile.
Sachi was very much annoyed. She worshipped one
deity named Upasruti. Upasruti appeared before Sachi. She took Sachi to a
hill called Manju Hill situated to the northern side of Himalayas. They both
entered into a pond and they found a lotus flower. In the stem of that lotus
flower, Indra was hiding. sachi met her husband.
“How could you know that I am here?” asked Indra.
Sachi told about Upasruti and prayed Indra to save her from Nahusha.
“Sachi! this is not the time for putting forth
our valour. Nahusha is stronger than me. Nahusha has been strengthened by the
powers of Rishis and divine bodies. Now he has a desire on you. It is his
first down fall. We have to use it in our favour. Now you have to do one
thing. You must do it secretly and must not disclose it to any person. After
going to Nahusha in private, tell him that he must visit you mounted on a
vehicle borne by Rishis. What will happen, you will see.” said Indra.
Sachi returnedback to Svarga Loka. Nahusha
approached Sachi and requested her to quench his lust. “Nahusha! I request
you for some time. It is coming to an end. I will certainly join you. But I
have got a desire. You are great and more powerful than Indra. I wish to see
you, coming to me on a vehicle borne by Rishis. I feel very happy.” said
Sachi.
As Nahusha was under the influence of lust on
Sachi, he could not use his brain and think about a while about the propriety
of her request. His mind was filled with lust and pride. “Sachi! You are
right. I am now Indra. I can only ascend a vehicle borne by Divine Rishis.
None can get such an honour. I will fulfil your desire by coming to you on a
palanquin borne by Seven Divine Rishis." said Nahusha
Immediately he called all the Rishis and ordered
to bear his palanquin. They agreed for his foolish proposal. Since then
Nahusha was moving in a palanquin borne by Rishis.
Sachi went to Brihaspati and said: “Gurudeva! The
time limit fixed by me is expiring. I do not know what to do. Please save me”
prayed Sachi.
“Dont worry Sachi. His down fall started with his
proposal to move in a palanquin borne by Rishis. He will no longer retain his
power.” said Brihaspati.
Then Brihaspati called Agni and requested him to
find out the whereabouts of Indra. And endued with speed of the mind, Agni
searched everywhere, mountains and forests, earth and sky, and came back to
Brihaspati and said, “Brihaspati, nowhere in these places do I find Indra.
The waters alone remain to be searched. I am always backward in entering the
waters. I have no ingress therein. Fire rose from water, kshatriyas rose from
the Brahmins; and iron had its origin in stone. The power of these which can
penetrate all other things, has no operation upon the sources from which they
spring. Hence I cannot enter water which is my birth place” said Agni.
"O Agni! You are the carrier of secred
offerings (Havya vahana). I will give you the power to enter even Agni. Go
and search” said Brihaspati. Accordingly, Agni entered the pond where Indra
was in exile and informed the same to Brihaspati. Then Brihaspati along with
other divine bodies went toIndra.
“O Indra! By killing Vrithra you have saved the
universe. You are not at fault.Unnecessarily, you have relinquished your
power. Now The human Nahusha, a king, having obtained the throne of heaven by
virtue of the power of the divine saints, is giving us exceeding trouble.
This is the proper time to pull him down.You have performed Asvamedha Yaga
and relieved of your Brahma Hatya sin. At that time Nahusha was righteous.
Hence you coult not get back your power. Now Nahusha lost his virtues and
power by insulting the great sages and saints.Now you can conquer him and
getback your Indra power." said Brihaspati.
In the meanwhile Yama, Varuna,Kubera and Chandra
also arrived there. Indra was very happy. when Indra, was talking with the
other deities upon the means of defeating Nahusha, there appeared at that
spot the great saint Agastya.
Agastya said: "Indra! Dont worry. Nahusha
has been hurled from the throne of heaven. You can now ascend the throne of
Indra” said Agastya.
“O saint! I am very delighted to hear this. How
Nahusha was unseated. Kindly tell me” asked Indira.
“Indra! listen. I will tell you how the wicked
Nahusha, intoxicated with pride of strength, had been unseated from heaven.
One day Nahusha was talking with the Brahmins and Rishis. The Brahmins asked
Nahusha whether the hymns in vedas, called Brahmanas, are to be recited while
sprinkling the cows and whether they are authentic. Nahusha, who lost his
senses by his pride of strength, said that Brahmanas are not authentic. I
condemned his words. He grew angry. Nahusha hit me on my head with his foot.
Hence I cursed him: “O Nahusha! You have said that the sacred vedic hymns,
Brahmanas as spurious. You have insulted the great Rishis by making them to carry
your palanquin. You have hit me on my head with your feet. With these
untoward acts, you lost all your powers. You will fall from heaven to earth
head-long and will remain on earth for so many years as a great
serpant."
Then Nahusha prayed for mercy and relinquishment from the curse. I blessed him and said: "Wheneveryou see a righteous person called Yudhishtira, you will get back your original form and will go to heaven”.
" In this manner, Nahusha lost his power.
The throne of Indra is ready for your occupation.” said saint Agastya.
Then Mahendra wroshipped Agastya. Followed by
Yama, Varuna, Vaayu and other divine bodies Mahendra returned back to heaven
and occupied the throne of heaven and lived with his wife Sachi happily.”
Therefore, Dharmaja, however high he may be, he
has to undergo the woes and exile according to his fate. There is no
exception even to Indra. You need not worry about it. The wicked Suyodhana
will have his downfall as Nahusha and You will get back your kingdom as
Indra.” said Salya.
Then Salya went to Hastinapura to meet Suyodhana
as per his word.
Satyaki joined Dharmaja with one Akshouhini army.
“Here wehave to know what Akshouhini means. An Akshouhini is an Army Troop consisting 21,870 chariots, equal number of elephants, 65,610 horses, and 1,09,350 army strength."
(The above Information was taken from the
Mahabharat published by T.T.D.).
The Chedi King, Dhrushtaketu, King Sahadeva son
of Jarasandha, the five Kekaya Kings also joined Pandavas with one akshouhini
army each. King Drupada, King of Pandya and the King of Hill Area also joined
Pandavas with one akhouhini army each. In this manner, the Pandava army rose
to seven akshouhinis.
In Hastinapura also, Suyodhana consolidated his
army. Bhagadatta, Bhoorisrava, Salya, Sudakshina, the King of Kambhoja,
Jayadhradha, the King of Singhu, King Neela, the king of Maahishmati, Yadava
King Krutavarma, Vinda and Anuvinda, the kings of Avanti joined Suyodhana
with one akshouni of army each. Besides them, many kings all over the earth
joined suyodhana.
Thus the army of Suyodhana was 11 akhouhinis.
(The total army participated in Mahabhara was was
18 akshouhinis. The period of Mahabharata war was18 days. The Geeta spoken to
by Sri Krishna during Mahabharata war contains 18 chapters.)
The Purohit sent by King Drupada reached
Hastinapura. He met King Dhrutarashtra, Bheeshma, Drona, Krupacharya, and
Vidura. Next day while King Dhrutarashtra was in his assembly, to the hearing
of one and all, the Purohit spoke thus:
"King Dhrutarashtra and King Pandu are
brothers. Pandavas are the sons of Pandu and Suyodhana and his brothers are
the sons of Dhrutarashtra. It is settled law that they both have right over
their ancestral property.You all know that it is just and proper and
righteous.You also know pretty well about their past history. The attempts
made by Kouravas to kill pandavas and how all those attempts were foiled.
Pandavas performed Rajasooya Yaga and acquired and extended their Kingdom by
their strength and prowess. But that Kingdom was grabbed by Suyodhana in dice
game, with the approval of King Dhrutarashtra. Not satisfied with that, they
dragged Droupadi to the open court and tried to remove her clothes. Pandavas
were sent to forest and exile. Now Pandavas have completed their Aranya and
Ajnatavasa as agreed. They are now claiming their share in the kingdom.
Now you have to put a word to Dhrutarashtra and
see that the Kingdom is divided equally between brothers. Pandavas never
intended to be inimical towards Kouravas. But they are not helpless. Now they
got 7 akshouhini army strength. You may have 11 akshouhini army strength. The
great warrior Bheemasena and Satyaki are equal to 1000 akshouhini army. Who
will challenge Arjuna if he is on the warfront with his Gaandeeva? Besides
all, Sri Krishna, the embodiment of Dharma is on their side. What else they
want?
Therefore, please invite Pandavas, honor them and
give their due share of kingdom. It is in the interests of one and all” said
the prienst sent by Drupada.
Then Bheeshma rose to his feet and said:
“The Priest said well. It is so fortunate that
Sri Krishna and Pandavas are intending to solve this problem peacefully.
Though your words are bit harsh, but they are acceptable by one and all.We
all know what had happened in this assembly on that fateful day. Pandavas
should not be troubled any more. Dhrutarashtra should invite Pandavas, treat
them as his sons and give their due share in the kingdom and honour them.Otherwise,
all will perish in the flames of anger emanated from Arjuna.” said Bheeshma.
Then Karna rose to his feet and said: “Why you
are repeating time and again, what had happened on that day. It is quite
unnecessary. On behalf of Suyodhana, Sakuni played the Dice game with
Dharmaja and defeated him. What is wrong in this? Without completing their
period of 13 years, they are shamelessly coming forward to claim kingdom.
Simply because they have the support of King Virata and King Drupada, they
are forcing Suyodhana and threatening us with war. Shall we have to succumb
to their threats and give away the kingdom. Is it just? Do you find this kind
of justice anywhere in the world?” said Karna.
Bheeshma was very much annoyed with his words.
“Karna! You are also speaking like a great hero. Dont you know that Arjuna
defeated all of us in the battle few days back.You are now conquering him
with your words. Do you remember, when Arjuna came to take back the cows
captured by us, you asked Suyodhana about the calculation of 13 years and I
made it clear to the hearing of Drona, Krupa and Asvathaama including you, I
calculated and said that Pandavas have successfully completed their 13 years
period as per the agreement. Did you not hear that? Why you are unnecessarly
again making it an issue.” said Bheeshma with fierceful voice.
Then Dhrutarashtra intervened and pacified
Bheeshma. Dhrutarashtra told the Priest:
“We have heard patiently what all you have said.
We will discuss the matter amongst ourselves, and we will send a softspoken
person to Dharmaja to express our views and thoughts. You can take leave”
said Dhrutarashtra.
The priest was rewarded with many presents.The
priest went back to Dharmaja and reported him what had happened.
Then Dhrutarashtra called for Sanjaya and told
him:
“Sanjaya! Pandavas are in Upaplaavyamu. You have
to start immediately to Upaplaavyamu and meet Dharmaja and Sri Krishna and
told them like this:
"I am very happy that you have completed the
period of 13 years in forests and in exile. All these unhappy incidents
happened because of Suyodhana does not know what to do or what not to
do." You also said that Pandavas are not at fault. I wish that all the
brothers should live amicably like milk and water. Pandavas are entitled to
enjoy their due share in the ancestral property.
I know Pandavas never believe me. But there is
Dharmaja who is a virtuous man.We cannot deny their due share in the kingdom.
If we deny, all the three universes will perish at the hands of Arjuna under
the guidance of Sri Krishna as his charioteer. What about Bheema, Nakula,
Sahadeva, Drupada and Satyaki? If they are aided by Pandayas and Kekaya
kings, nobody will conquer them.
Therefore, you speak to Dharmaja while he was
surrounded by his brothers, Sri Krishna, and his relatives and brothers, my
words in pleasing manner and pacify them and mend them so that they should
not think about war. You should make them to shed their anger and hatredness
and restore peace in the kingdom. You start immediately” said Dhrutarashtra.
Accordingly, Sanjaya left Hastinapura and reached
Upaplaavyam. At first he met Sri Krishna and sought his blessings.
Next day he went to the court of Dharmaja and in the presence of Dharmaja, his brothers, Sri Krishna, Drupada, Virata and other friends and relatives of Dharmaja, he spoke thus:
"Dharmaja! I am very happy to see you on the
throne. Your paternal uncle, Dhrutarashtra also is very happy and sent me to
enquire about your welfare” said Sanjaya.
Then Dharmaja replied: “O Sanjaya! With the
blessings of King Dhrutarashtra, we are all safe here. I am very glad to know
that he has sent you here to enquire about our welfare. Is Dhrutarashtra is
doing well? What about his sons? Are they happy. Kindly convey my regards to
Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa, Asvathaama. Are they being treated well by Suyodhana.
Are Brahmins being honoured in his kingdom.
Kindly tell me whether the charities made by us to Brahmins are still being
enjoyed by them. Whether Kouravas are remembering us and our prowess. Whether
the word of Karna is still being regarded in the palace of Suyodhana. Sanjaya
please tell me impartially whether anybody will face Arjuna in war.” said
Dharmaja.
To those words of Dharmaja Sanjaya replied tactfully. “Dharmaja! Suyodhana is a king. He is always surrounded by persons possessing both good and bad qualities and characters. They will never heed others words. Therefore, we cannot blame them.
With good and plain heart, you have made efforts
for mediation and sent your emissary. But Dhrutarashtra is old. His mind is
wavering. He is unable to say "No" to his sons. But he is suffering
a lot in his mind. You have to understand his inability and helplessness.
Dharmaja! Will anybody grab the charities made to
Brahmins? All the people of Hastinapura are always remembering you and your
brothers and your prowess. Everybody says that you are peaceloving persons
and you will never do any harm even to your enemies.
Dharmaja! In your presence, and in the presence
of Sri Krishna, your brothers and other elders I will say some few words.
Kindlyu listen. Your paternal uncle, Dhrutarashtra sent me to effect
mediation between you and Suyodhana. Therefore, we have to act now wisely.
You are all righteous people and you will never resort to any immoral acts.
But due to the immoral acts of Suyodhana, Kuru Dynasty was blamed by one and
all. You have to wipe out that blame.
War is destructive. It will never give happiness
even to the conqueror. No wise man will think about war.War means killing of
young and old, friends and relatives. Who else will enjoy happiness after
losing all their kith and kin in war?.
When you are aided by Sri Krishna, Satyaki,
Virata, Drupada, who else will defeat you in the war. On the side of
Suyodhana, Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa, Asvathaama, Karna, Salya are ready to give
up their lives for the sake of their King Suyodhana. The brothers and sons of
Suyodhana, Somadatta, Baahlika are unconquerable. If these equal forces fight
with each other, who will be benefited. In my view, it is not good for both
sides.
Krishna I will salute you. Arjuna I pray you with
folded hands. I am requesting the other Pandavas and their friends and
relatives. Shed hatredness. Renounce anger. Be peaceful. Dharmaja! I pray you
to be peaceful. Bheeshma and Drona will be happy if this matter is settled by
peaceful means. It will be acclaimed by one and all in the entire world.”
said Sanjaya.
Dharmaja said: “Sanjaya! Is there any whisper about war in my words? Doyou mean to say that we are in favour of war? If matter is settled amicably without resorting to war, I am the first person to feel happy. Bheema and Arjuna will always do righteous deeds and never resort to misdeeds. I know that the ultimate result of war is sorrow.
Sanjaya! My paternal uncle is preaching to follow
right path while he is going on a wrong path. Now we are helpless and without
kingdom. Is he mad to invite us and honour us. He paid a deaf ear to the
words of elders even on that day.
He strongly believes that his son Suyodhana is a
great warrior. He will even consume even poison if Suyodhana gives but he
never heed any thing good. Had he followed the advise of Vidura, the matter
will never reach this stage. Dhrutarashtra will always heed the words of Suyodhana,
Dussaasana, Karna and Sakuni and never pay heed to others words. That is his
mentality. Knowing fully well about his mentality, you are speaking like
this.
Suyodhana believes Karna and his prowess. He is
never afraid of Sri Krishna and Arjuna. Bheeshma and others knows much about
war. You have praised us and our vigour and valour. Still you are saying that
we are unable to defeat kouravas. Please leave your partisan attitude.
Whether we get victory in the war or not is quite
immaterial. You are a righteous person. Listen to me. We will maintain
patience. So far, we have patiently tolerated all the insults. Hereinafter
also we will keep patience. We will never cause harm or hardship to anybody.
Believe us.
If at all Dhrutarashtra has soft corner towards
us and wants to maintain relationship with us, let him invite us and convice
his sons to give us our due share in the kingdom. We will satisfy if we are
given Indra Prastha or any other city.” said Dharmaja.
Then Sanjaya said: “Dharmaja! I know your patience.
You will tolerate any amount of mistakes. Truth and non-violance alone are
your riches. In case Kouravas deny your share in the kingdom, I know you will
prefer even for begging than waging a war.
You are a virtuous person who has performed
Rajasooya Yaga. Your history shall not be tainted with violence. With your
patience and tolerance, you made the world to curse those who insulted you
and sent you and your wife and brothers to forests. You suffered a lot in the
forests. Is it just and proper for such a great person like you to resort to
such a heinous thing like a war and kill your kith kin.
Therefore, Dharmaja, shed your anger and retain
your name and fame as Ajatasatru.” said Sanjaya.
Dharmaja said: “Sanjaya! What all you said is
correct. Some deeds which appear to be righteous in their outward apearance,
a deep study will reveal that they are wrongs. But some wrong deeds will
transform themselves into righteous things in course of time. If you want to
curse me, you can do so after proving that what I did was wicked and sinful.
Certainly anger should be avoided. Non-violence
is greatest virue. But killing those who are bad and sinful is a great
virtue. I think war is the duty of Kshatriya. Any how, Lord Sri Krishna is
there to guide us and tell us good and bad, proper and improper. Under his
guidance only Kingdoms like Yadu, Bhoja, Andhaka, Vrushni, Srunjaya and
Kekaya are flourishing. His word is final for us” said Dharmaja.
Then Sri Krishna stood up and said: “Sanjaya! I
am the well wisher of Pandavas. Dhrutarashtra is the well wisher of his sons.
Now he became wiser and sent you to enquire about the welfare of Pandavas.You
also expressed his words coupled with your opinion in a pleasing and obliging
manner. We were very much pleased with your words propagating peace.
Everything appears to be good in its outward appearance. But as per the words
of Dharmaja, it appears that an peaceful and amicable settlement is
impossible. Ofcourse, Dharmaja is right in his own way.
We know about Suyodhana and Dhrutarashtra. You
told us about his sweet words and generosity.
Will Pandavas satsify with his generosity and
remain silent without asking fortheir due share in the kingdo? Without
digging out the past, Pandavas are desirous to live peacefully and amicably
with Kouravas. It shows their greatness and compassion. If the Kouravas deny
their due share in the Kingdom, will it be unfaithful on their part to wage
war against Kouravas?
Sanjaya! in my opinion, it is better to wage war
instead of living with sufferings and insults. Dharmaja asked you whether war
is the virtue of Kshatriyas. It is a well known principle that Kshatriyas
will always give to others but will never beg others for anything. Besides
that Kshatriyas are the guardians of Varna Ashrama Dharmas. Such Kshatriyas
will never give up their own dharma viz, war and beg others. All these
Dharmas and Principles are formulated only to safeguard the interests of
virtuous persons who are enjoying their legally earned assets in a righteous
manner.
Sanjaya! you would have told all these dharmas
even to Kauravas also. It is well known to all how wicked they are while
trying to remove the clothes of Droupadi in a fully crowded assembly, in the
presence of her husbands. How many have played dice game in this world? Will
any body treat their defeated partners like this? Tell Sanjaya” asked Sri
Krishna.
“Sri Krishna! If you too keep all these things in
mind, how can we solve this problem amicably.” asked Sanjaya.
Sri Krishna continued: “On that day, in that
assembly, Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa and other elders were present. Why did they
not open their mouths? Even Dhrutharashtra did not speak a single word
against his wicked son. Had he condemned the action of his son on that day
itself, the entire universe would have felt happy. How did a father-in-law
like Dhrutarashtra tolerate the situation while Dussasana was dragging
Droupadi to the fully crowded assembly, abusing her in a filthy language? Did
he not hear the cries of Droupadi? He is only blind but not deaf. Having
heard the cries of Droupadi, how he kept quiet? Now, he sent you to enquire
about their welfare.
You know, Sanjaya, when Droupadi was dragged to a
public place, and when everybody kept quiet, knowing fully well that it was
wrong, she saved herself. Is there no end for their sufferings?
Sanjaya! you were also present in that assembly.
Did you not hear what Karna said on that day.
“Here you have no husbands. They have abandoned
you by losing the bet in the dice game. You can choose anybody in this
assembly as your husband.”
How much mental agony Droupadi suffered on
hearing those heart breaking words, don’t you know? Has any body come forward
to console her?
Besides that, Dussasana heckled Droupadi that
“Though your husbands are here, they are worthless. None is here to come to
your rescue”.
Yes Sanjaya. Pandavas are useless and worthless.
But what they achieved by using those words in open assembly, I do not know.
Therefore, for the present, an amicable
settlement cannot be achieved. However, I will come to Hastinapura, after due
deliberations with Pandavas. If Kouravas agree for my proposal and part with
half share in the kingdom, they will remain alive. I hope they will act
wisely and accept my proposal. If they act wickedly, they will be digging
their own grave. Their greediness and wickedness will destroy them.
Sanjaya! I will tell one more thing. Duryodhana
is a big tree of evil passions; Karna is its trunk; Sakuni is its branches;
Dussasana forms its abundant blossoms and fruits; while the wise king
Dhritarashtra is its roots.
Yudhishthira is a big tree of righteousness;
Arjuna is its trunk; and Bhima is its branches; the sons of Madri are its
abundant flowers and fruits; and its roots are myself and religion and
religious men. Without fear or favour tell me which is better.
If King Dhrutarashtra and his sons constitute a
forest, Pandavas are Lions wandering in the forest. If lions leave the
forest, the forest will be cut. If forest is cut, Lions cannot live.
Therefore, both Kouravas and Pandavas should live amicably. Kng Dhrutarashtra
should shower love and affection on Pandavas also and treat them as his own
sons. Then Pandavas also will be faithful to Dhrutarashtra and friendly with
Kouravas.
Any how I will come to Hastinapura. I will see
whether Suyodhana will accept my proposal. Then we will decide future course
of action. You tell these words to Dhrutarashtra.” said Sri Krishna.
Sanjaya patiently heard what all has been said by
Sri Krishna. “Well Sri Krishna. I think my visit is fruitful. I request all
of you to grant me leave to leave this assembly. I will go back to
Hastinapura. Dharmaja! I think there is nothing wrong in what I said” asked
Sanjaya.
“Yes Sanjaya! There is nothing wrong in what you
have said. I never heard immoral or improper words through your mouth. I
regard you equal to Vidura. You convey my salutations to Bheeshma,Drona,
Krupacarya and also to my paternal uncle, Dhrutarashtra.
Convey my best wishes to Dussaasana. Tell
Suyodhana that I enquired about his welfare. Convey my best wishes to my
friend, Asvadhaama. Convey my regards to Bahlika, Somadatta and BhooriSrava.
Convey my salutations, regards and best wishes to
all the kings arrived there to help Suyodhana. You also tell my paternal
uncle in the open assembly thus: “We are living happily with your blessings.
Even whle we were young, you have given us our due share in the kingdom. Even
now also kindly solve this problem amicably and avert the wicked war and unwanted
killings. The people, kings and Brahmins will praise you.
Then tell my grand father, Bheeshma: “Inspite of
all insinuations meted out by them, Pandavas are peaceloving and they never
think about war.”
Tell Suyodhana that though we were capable of attacking
them, we have forbore all the insults offered to us in the midst of the
assembly and we have no mind to take revenge against them. Let Suyodhana and
his brothers not die in the unnecessary war. Let them not greedy about
others' property. Let him give our due share in the kingdom. Let us all live
together forgetting our past rivalry.
Because none else told Suyodhana about his greediness, I am telling this much. There may be great warriors on the side of Suyodhana. But on our side Dharma is there and the embodiment of Dharma, Sri Krishna, is there. Hence it is very difficult to defeat us in the war. I am elder not only to Bheema and Arjuna but also to Suyodhana. Let him regard my words. Allow us to proceed in peaceful manner. Let us not think about war. Let us rule our respective kingdoms and live together happily. It is acceptable to all elders, wisemen and people inthe kingdom.
If for any reason, Suyodhana is unable to give
back our half share in the kingdom, let him give Kusa Sthali, Vruksha Sthali,
Vaasanti and Vaaranaavatamu. Atleast with this arrangement, peace and
prosperity will flourish among the brothers. Our friends and relatives and
the Kings of Kuru, Panchala, Yadava, Matsya will live happily.
Please explain all these things both to my paternal
uncle, Dhrutarashtra and my brother Suyodhana.” said Dharmaja.
“Dharmaja! I will do as you say. I hope
Dhrutarashtra will do justice to you.” said Sanjaya.
Then Arjuna spoke to Sanjaya: “My friend Sanjaya!
you are my bosom friend since my childhood. I know what you are. On that
fateful day, the word of Dharmaja stopped Bheema. Even today also the
position is same. Suyodhana need not worry about me and Bheema as long as we
are controlled by Dharmaja. You can go” said Arjuna.
After taking leave from one and all, Sanjaya left
Upaplavyamu for Hastinapura.
Mahabharat, Udyoga Parva, Pradhamaasvaasa completed. Om tatsat |
ng; and
sorrow brings on disease. Grief makes one's foes glad. Therefore, do not yield
to grief." said Vidura.
"
Yudhishthira who is like a flame of fire, has been deceived by me. He will
surely exterminate in battle all my wicked sons. Everything, therefore, seems
to me to be fraught with danger, and my mind is full of anxiety" said
Dhrutarashtra.
"O
King! shed your greediness. Control your senses. You will have mental peace.
Shed enmity with Pandavas. Avoid grabbing others property, cows etc. insulting
ladies and brahmins. Let all the brothers live together peacefully.
One can
cut a single tree but even a ghaslty wind cannot uproot the palmgrove. If all
the brothers are united, even the enemies cannot shake them. Therefore, invite
pandavas to your presence and give them their due share in the kingdom.
On the
day of dice game I advised you but you did not relish my words. I am telling
you again and again. You are trusting your sons and deserted Pandavas. Now it
has come to your neck. If the son is bad, wicked and untrustworty and causing
harm even to his community, he should be left. There is nothing wrong in
leaving your son even now. Imagine a situation when Bhishma and Dharmaja,
Arjuna and Karna, Bheema and Suyodhana, Lakshmana Kumara and Abhimanyu, Drona
and Drupada are serving you, how glorious you will be. You will not have any
enemies on the earth." said Vidura.
"Vidura!
though your words are acceptable, I cannot leave my sons in this old age.
Dharma will triumph" said Dhrutarashtra.
"
You need not leave your sons. But why you are keeping Pandavas a a distance.
Convince your sons and give few villages to Pandavas for their sustenance. Only
to avoid war, i told you to desert your sons. If that is not possible, have a
mediation with Pandavas and avoid war. Both are same.
Death is
imminent for all. If it is not war, otherwise. However high he may be, he
cannot avoid death. Think again. Call for Pandavas and have an agreeable pact
with them." said Vidura.
"Vidura,
Your words are agreeable. I will do like that" said Dhrutarashtra.
Vidura
was very happy. "O King! Be on that word. Dont change your mind."
said Vidura.
Next day,
Dhrutarashtra, surrounded by elders like Bheeshma, Baahlika,
Somadatta,Bhoorisrava and Gurus like Drona and Krupa, Asvathaama and other
ministers was sitting in the assembly.
Sanjaya
entered the assembly and bowed before all and said:
"O
King! As per your command, I have gone to Upaplaavyam and met Dharmaja.
Dharmaja enquired the welfare of each and every body by name and paid respects
to one and all.
I also
met Krishna and Arjuna. Krishna spoke to me like this.
"If
Dharmaja gets angry, fire will emanate from water. You cannot put it off. War
is imminent. You distribute your entire wealth to brahmins and be ready for the
war. In the meanwhile enjoy all royal pleasures and be ready to die in the war.
The loud
cries of Droupadi "Govindaa Govindaa" in the open assembly are still
ringing in my ears. I cannot discharge that debt. To discharge that debt only,
I agreed to be the charioteer of Arjuna. When Arjuna aims gandeeva towards
Kouravas, where they will go?" said Sanjaya the words of Krishna.
"O
King! then Arjuna spoke to me like this: "Sanjaya! Dharmaja requested for
his due share in the kingdom. If they refuse, there is no other word but waging
war against them. Me and Bheema will give a fitting reply to Kouravas for all
their sinful acts.
Unless
Suyodhana sleeps on the bed of arrows, how the pains of Dharmaja, who slept on
hard ground in the forests, will be relieved.
While
Bheema was wielding his mace in the war front, how Suyodhana will refuse to
give our due share in the kingdom?
When
Nakula, Sahadeva, Satyaki and Abhimanyu were shooting their arrows and killing
the army of Kouravas, Suyodhana will certainly try for peace. He will heed our
words only in war front, not otherwise.
After the
death of Suyodhana, when Sikhandi jumped on Bheeshma to kill him, there will be
no othergo for Kouravas except coming to an agreement.
Kouravas will end the war when Dhrushtadyumna cut the head of Drona. I know that Suyodhana will never heed the words of Sri Krishna.
Kouravas will end the war when Dhrushtadyumna cut the head of Drona. I know that Suyodhana will never heed the words of Sri Krishna.
Sanjaya!
We will enter the war with the blessings of Bheeshbours. Anger, pride,
disssatisfaction, procrastination and false modesty are the qualities of bad
people.
A person who does not respect his king, god, wife and relatives will not achieve good results in his efforts. A tactlessperson does not love those who love him and goes behind those who do not love him.
That man, who, without knowing his own strength and dissociated from both virtue and profit, desires an object difficult of acquisition, without again adopting adequate means, is said to be destitute of intelligence.
Wealth, education, inheritance attach modesty and respect to virtuous people and cause pride and aggrandisement to bad.
When a bowman shoots an arrow, he may or may not succeed in killing even a single person, but when an intelligent individual applies his intelligence it may destroy an entire kingdom with the king.
Eating for himself, thinking alone and travelling alone are not good. Truth is the foremost character. Forgiveness shall not be considered to be the weakness of a person as forgiveness is the prime virtue of good.
A man of power endued with forgiveness, and poor man that is charitable, considered to be a virtuous personality. Of things honestly got, these two must be looked upon as misuse, viz., making gifts to the unworthy and refusing gifts to the worthy.
A man will become virtuous in this world by doing two things, viz., by refraining himself from harsh speech, and by disregarding those that are wicked.
A wiseman should renounce these seven faults that are productive of calamity, these are women, dice, hunting, drinking, harshness of speech, quarrelsome, and misuse of wealth.
A person who does not respect his king, god, wife and relatives will not achieve good results in his efforts. A tactlessperson does not love those who love him and goes behind those who do not love him.
That man, who, without knowing his own strength and dissociated from both virtue and profit, desires an object difficult of acquisition, without again adopting adequate means, is said to be destitute of intelligence.
Wealth, education, inheritance attach modesty and respect to virtuous people and cause pride and aggrandisement to bad.
When a bowman shoots an arrow, he may or may not succeed in killing even a single person, but when an intelligent individual applies his intelligence it may destroy an entire kingdom with the king.
Eating for himself, thinking alone and travelling alone are not good. Truth is the foremost character. Forgiveness shall not be considered to be the weakness of a person as forgiveness is the prime virtue of good.
A man of power endued with forgiveness, and poor man that is charitable, considered to be a virtuous personality. Of things honestly got, these two must be looked upon as misuse, viz., making gifts to the unworthy and refusing gifts to the worthy.
A man will become virtuous in this world by doing two things, viz., by refraining himself from harsh speech, and by disregarding those that are wicked.
A wiseman should renounce these seven faults that are productive of calamity, these are women, dice, hunting, drinking, harshness of speech, quarrelsome, and misuse of wealth.
Avoiding
Self boasting, observing proper dress code, not repenting for the charities he
made, leading virtuous life even in adverse circumstances, are considered tobe
the better way of living.
Friendship,
speaking or quarrelling must be between equals. One should give away something
to others from what he has. One should not refuse even to his enemy also.
Working hard and feeling happy is a good virtue. Virtuous people will never
enjoy flattering but help others. They never cause harm to anybody.
All these
qualities are in abundance in Dharmaja. You have brought up Pandavas also along
with your sons. Is it proper on your part to desert them now? Therefore, listen
to my words, give away half share in the Kingdom to Pandavas and treat them
equally along with your sons. As long as all are united, even heavenly bodies
dare not look at them" said Vidura.
"O
Vidura! What can I do now?" asked Dhrutarashtra.
"If
you ask like this what can I tell except telling the truth.
Yourself
and your sons are trying to swallow the entire empire including the due share
of Pandavas. It is as if the fish is trying to swallow the worm along with the
hook.
The
unripe fruit is not tasty nor is it useful even as seed. A person who is envy
of others' wealth, education and prowess will suffer himself without any
disease.
Well-spoken
speech is productive of many beneficial results; and ill-spoken speech, is the
cause of evils.
A tree
cut down by axes may again grow, but one's heart wounded and censured by
ill-spoken words never recover. Weapons, such as arrows, knives can be easily
extracted from the body, but a wordy dagger plunged deep into the heart is
incapable of being taken out.
O king,
so far Dharmaja did not so far speak a harsh word against you. But you have
heard what had been spoken by your sons against Pandavas. They are very sweet
to your ears. Unworthy deeds will always appear to be best for the wicked.
Your mind
is always in favour of enmity with Pandavas. What can I do? Think for yourself.
Is it proper on your part to deny their legitimate share in the kingdom?
Dharmaja
is respecting you as an elder. As long as Dharmaja's good deeds are spoken of
in this world, so long, is he glorified in heaven.
In the
ancient past, though Prahlada was born in Rakshasa community, he was regrded as
a virtuous king. Once a dispute arose between his son Virocaha and another
Brahmin Angeerasa. Prahlada decided the dispute in favour of Angeerasa, even
without considering that Virocana was his son.
In the
same manner, you also act impartially and do justice to Pandavas and avert the
unnecessary battle between brothers.
An assembly without elders is not at all an assembly. Elders who are unable to speak impartially are not at all elders. If Truth is absent in preserving Dharma, it is not at all preservation of Dharma. Truth spoken on some pretext or other is not at all a truth.
An assembly without elders is not at all an assembly. Elders who are unable to speak impartially are not at all elders. If Truth is absent in preserving Dharma, it is not at all preservation of Dharma. Truth spoken on some pretext or other is not at all a truth.
Living
with morals is best. Acquiring wealth by prowess is better. Leading life with
agony is worst. Nobody will appreciate those who follow wrong and immoral path.
Your sons
will always be enamoured about war. Karna is adding fuel to fire. Pandavas will
never indulge in war unnecessarily but they never leave anybody if they are
provocated. Pandavas are respecting you as their father. It is better to treat
them also equally along with your sons.
O king!
If anybody causes harm to those who helped him, even dogs will not touch his
body. Forgetting the help done to him is a great sin. Your brother, King Pandu,
was your devotee. His sons Pandavas also has greatest regard towards you. It is
better to respect them also. Happiness and misery, gain and loss, life and
death, are shared by all. You should not feel sorrow.
Sorrow kills beauty; sorrow kills strength; sorrow kills the understanding; and sorrow brings on disease. Grief makes one's foes glad. Therefore, do not yield to grief." said Vidura.
"
Yudhishthira who is like a flame of fire, has been deceived by me. He will
surely exterminate in battle all my wicked sons. Everything, therefore, seems
to me to be fraught with danger, and my mind is full of anxiety" said
Dhrutarashtra.
"O
King! shed your greediness. Control your senses. You will have mental peace.
Shed enmity with Pandavas. Avoid grabbing others property, cows etc. insulting
ladies and brahmins. Let all the brothers live together peacefully.
One can
cut a single tree but even a ghaslty wind cannot uproot the palmgrove. If all
the brothers are united, even the enemies cannot shake them. Therefore, invite
pandavas to your presence and give them their due share in the kingdom.
On the
day of dice game I advised you but you did not relish my words. I am telling
you again and again. You are trusting your sons and deserted Pandavas. Now it
has come to your neck. If the son is bad, wicked and untrustworty and causing
harm even to his community, he should be left. There is nothing wrong in
leaving your son even now. Imagine a situation when Bhishma and Dharmaja,
Arjuna and Karna, Bheema and Suyodhana, Lakshmana Kumara and Abhimanyu, Drona
and Drupada are serving you, how glorious you will be. You will not have any
enemies on the earth." said Vidura.
"Vidura!
though your words are acceptable, I cannot leave my sons in this old age.
Dharma will triumph" said Dhrutarashtra.
"
You need not leave your sons. But why you are keeping Pandavas a a distance.
Convince your sons and give few villages to Pandavas for their sustenance. Only
to avoid war, i told you to desert your sons. If that is not possible, have a
mediation with Pandavas and avoid war. Both are same.
Death is
imminent for all. If it is not war, otherwise. However high he may be, he
cannot avoid death. Think again. Call for Pandavas and have an agreeable pact
with them." said Vidura.
"Vidura,
Your words are agreeable. I will do like that" said Dhrutarashtra.
Vidura
was very happy. "O King! Be on that word. Dont change your mind."
said Vidura.
Next day,
Dhrutarashtra, surrounded by elders like Bheeshma, Baahlika,
Somadatta,Bhoorisrava and Gurus like Drona and Krupa, Asvathaama and other
ministers was sitting in the assembly.
Sanjaya
entered the assembly and bowed before all and said:
"O
King! As per your command, I have gone to Upaplaavyam and met Dharmaja.
Dharmaja enquired the welfare of each and every body by name and paid respects
to one and all.
I also
met Krishna and Arjuna. Krishna spoke to me like this.
"If
Dharmaja gets angry, fire will emanate from water. You cannot put it off. War
is imminent. You distribute your entire wealth to brahmins and be ready for the
war. In the meanwhile enjoy all royal pleasures and be ready to die in the war.
The loud
cries of Droupadi "Govindaa Govindaa" in the open assembly are still
ringing in my ears. I cannot discharge that debt. To discharge that debt only,
I agreed to be the charioteer of Arjuna. When Arjuna aims gandeeva towards
Kouravas, where they will go?" said Sanjaya the words of Krishna.
"O
King! then Arjuna spoke to me like this: "Sanjaya! Dharmaja requested for
his due share in the kingdom. If they refuse, there is no other word but waging
war against them. Me and Bheema will give a fitting reply to Kouravas for all
their sinful acts.
Unless
Suyodhana sleeps on the bed of arrows, how the pains of Dharmaja, who slept on
hard ground in the forests, will be relieved.
While
Bheema was wielding his mace in the war front, how Suyodhana will refuse to
give our due share in the kingdom?
When
Nakula, Sahadeva, Satyaki and Abhimanyu were shooting their arrows and killing
the army of Kouravas, Suyodhana will certainly try for peace. He will heed our
words only in war front, not otherwise.
After the
death of Suyodhana, when Sikhandi jumped on Bheeshma to kill him, there will be
no othergo for Kouravas except coming to an agreement.
Kouravas will end the war when Dhrushtadyumna cut the head of Drona. I know that Suyodhana will never heed the words of Sri Krishna.
Kouravas will end the war when Dhrushtadyumna cut the head of Drona. I know that Suyodhana will never heed the words of Sri Krishna.
Sanjaya!
We will enter the war with the blessings of Bheeshma and Drona and
Krupaacaarya. After suffering innumerable woes in the forests, now we are
requesting for our due share in the kingdom. If Suyodhana wins, it is only the
defeat of Dharma but not our weakness. Sri Krishna is on our side. We will win.
Dharma will win. There is no doubt.
We will
kill all Kouravas along with Karna and take back our kingdom. Sanjaya! you
please tell all these words to Dhrutarashtra, to the hearing of all elders. On
hearing these words, what Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa, Asvathama, Vidura, Salya will
decide, that will be final. Long live Suyodhana and his brothers!" These
are the words of Arjuna" said Sanjaya.
On
hearing these words of Arjuna through Sanjaya, Bhsheema rose to his feet and
said: "Suyodhana! Arjuna and Sri Krishna are Nara and Narayana. In every
Yuga they will incarnate themselves to put an end to Adharma and save Dharma.
Arjuna killed Poulomas, Kalakeyas, Nivata Kavacas.
In fact, Nara and Narayana are one. They are divided into two. If both are in the battle field, even Lord Siva cannot stand before them. You will come know of it when Arjuna wields Gandeevam on the chariot driven by Sri Krishna.
In fact, Nara and Narayana are one. They are divided into two. If both are in the battle field, even Lord Siva cannot stand before them. You will come know of it when Arjuna wields Gandeevam on the chariot driven by Sri Krishna.
I know
you are not afraid of my words. You will do as you like. If you dont heed my
words today, you may hear about our fall in the battle. You will pay heed only
to the wicked like Dusaasana, Karna, Sakuni but not elders like me" said
Bheeshma.
On
hearing these words Karna intervened: 'It is not proper on your part to speak
like this. What I have done? I am serving Suyodhana and eating his food. It is
always my duty to do all that is agreeable to king Dhritarashtra, and
especially to Duryodhana, for he is in possession of the kingdom. If I do any
wrong, Suyodhana would not have tolerated me all these days. I have never done
any injury to King Suyodhana; I will kill all the Pandavas in battle and
discharge my debt to Suyodhana. " said Karna.
"Dhrutarashtra!
After all, Karna is not at all equal to any of the Pandavas. He is boasting
himself that he will kill Pandavas. Relying upon Karna, Suyodhana insulted
Pandavas.
Pandavas, especially Arjuna, got many victories in several battles. Can Karna claim to have any such victory in his account. When Arjuna killed his brother in the battle in his very presence, he was helpless and fledaway. When Arjuna was driving back the cattle, Karna was very well present there. What he has done? When your son was being led away as a captive by the Gandharvas, where was this Karna? Now he is boasting himself as he likes. You are heeding his words." said Bheeshma.
Pandavas, especially Arjuna, got many victories in several battles. Can Karna claim to have any such victory in his account. When Arjuna killed his brother in the battle in his very presence, he was helpless and fledaway. When Arjuna was driving back the cattle, Karna was very well present there. What he has done? When your son was being led away as a captive by the Gandharvas, where was this Karna? Now he is boasting himself as he likes. You are heeding his words." said Bheeshma.
"O
King Dhrutarashtra! Bheeshma is equally related to both Pandavas and Kouravas.
What he said is correct. It is better to settle the matter amicably between the
brothers. Everything said by Arjuna and repeated here by Sanjaya, will, I know,
be accomplished by that Arjuna, for there is no bowman equal to him in the
three worlds! Right from the battle of Khandava Vana Dahana, till now, we have
to recapitulate all his victories. Think about it" said Drona.
Dhrutarashtra
pretended as if he does not hear those words. He did not try to give any reply.
Dhritarashtra looked at Sanjaya "Sanjaya! Tell me what Dharmaja is
thinking about us and our army strength. Does he get any idea about our mighty
army? Who are the mighty heroes in his army?" asked Dhrutarashtra.
"O
King Dhritarashtra! I am telling you again and again. Dharmaja is always in
favour of an amicable settlement. If you give him his due share in the Kingdom,
he will never intend to cause any harm to you. If war is inevitable, he never
cares anybody.
All are
known to you on the side of Dharmaja.
Bheemasena, the killer of Baka, Hidimba Keechaka is on their side. Arjuna who defeated Siva and got pasupatha is on their side. Nakula and Sahadeva who conqured many kingdoms are on their side.
Bheemasena, the killer of Baka, Hidimba Keechaka is on their side. Arjuna who defeated Siva and got pasupatha is on their side. Nakula and Sahadeva who conqured many kingdoms are on their side.
Abimanyu,
son of Subhadra and the sons of Droupadi are on their side. Satyaki brother of
Sri Krishna is on their side. Dhrushtadyumna, brother of Droupadi is on their
side.
Drupada,
Virata, his brothers, Five Kekaya Kings, Sahadeva son of Jarasandha, Jayatsena,
Dhrutaketu and Vrushabha sons of Sisupaala, Yadava King Chekitana and Saibya
and other mighty heroes are on the side of Dharmaja.
Besides,
Ghatoktacha, son of Bheemasena who is wellversed in miracle war is on their
side. Many Kings from eastern region and northern region have joined Dharmaja with
their army.
Above
all, Sri Krishna is on their side Who else is required for Dharmaja to win the
war against us?" said Sanjaya.
"Sanjaya!
what you said is correct. With regard to strength, Bheema is one side and the
others are on otherwise. I am more afraid of Bheema. Who is equivalent to
Bheema on our side? Bheema will never heed my words even from his childhood.
Knowing fully well about the strength of Bheema, my sons are provoking him for
war.
Bheema
killed Jarasandha with his hands. He needs no weapon. He can kill anybody even
with his hands. Adding fuel to fire, Arjuna is on his side. What else is
required.
Sanjaya!
have you ever seen any warrior on our side who is equivalent to Arjuna? Besides
that, Sri Krishna is his charioteer. In this way, If Bheema, Arjuna and Sri
Krishna is in the battle field, who can attack them. They three will destroy
our entire army.
Bheeshma
and Drona know much about Arjuna and Bheema. Inspite of that, they will fight
on our side. I am unable to tell anything to my sons. What Vidura is saying
from the beginning, it is happening. Dharmaja is wise and virtuous. He is
supported by his brothers. Drupada and Virata are helping him. Waging war
against them is nothing but inviting troubles. I will try to convince my sons
and restore peace." said Dhritarashtra.
"O
King! You words are so wise. Though you deserted Pandavas, they never left you.
They came to your rescue when Gandharva caputured your son Suyodhana. They will
never go beyond your words. If you invite them, they will shed their anger and
obey your words " said Sanjaya.
After
patiently hearing all the words of all elders, Suyodhana began to speak:
"O
my father, Dhritarashtra! Your words appear tobe very strange. Sri Krishna
gathered all those who were exiled to forest and collected some more cowards
and call it an army. Will they conquer us in the battle? Fear not my dear
father, we will certainly vanquish them in the battle. Dont belittle our
strength. Bheeshma who won Prasurama is on our side. Is our Guru, Drona, an ordinary
warrior? What about Asvathaamaa, born with the blessings of Lord Siva. Is there
anybody who can attack Karna, born with natural Kavacha and Kundala. Besides,
Bahlika, Somadatta, King of Sindhu, King of Gandhara are great warriors. They
are all on our side. Can Pandavas stare at us for a moment?
We will
never submit to Pandavas. We will never fled away. We will fight till end. It
is my final decision. After all, they are sufferers at our hands. If we mingle
with them it will be our cowardlyness but not friendship. I cannot say anything
if you pray them for peace.
You are
praising Bheema as a great warrior. Can he match with me? Not only Bheema, none
on the face of the earth can attck me with mace. I will myself kill Bheemna. If
Bheema is killed, none will be there on the Pandavas side to fight. Aware of
this only, Dharmaja is requesting for five villages.
Sakti, in
the hands of Karna, will kill Arjuna. Bheeshma and Drona will destroy the
entire Pandava army. Your sons are more powerful than all. We got eleven
akshouhini army. They got only seven. Without keeping in view all these things,
why you are fearing like this." said Suyodhana.
Then he
told Sanjaya "Sanjaya! tell me what Dharmaja, leader of those cowards,
spoke about us?" "Suyodhana! Pandavas are treating this battle as a
marriage function. They are not afraid of this war." said Sanjaya.
"O
King Dhrutarashtra! They have divided the warriors on your side amongst
themsleves.
Bheeshma
will be killed by Sikhandi; Drona by Dhrushtadyumna; Duryodhana and his
brothers by Bheema; all the youth on your side by Abhimanyu; Saindhava,
Asvathaama and Karna and other great warriors will be killed by Arjuna.
Kritavarma
will be killed by Satyaki; Somadatta by Chekitana; and Sakuni will be killed by
Nakula and Sahadeva. Salya will be killed by Dharmaja.
It is
their strategy. You can do as you like" said Sanjaya.
Dhritarashtra
was very much distressed with these words. "O my God! who will save me and
my sons? It is my misfortune that my son is not caring for Sri Krishna and
Dharmaja and his mighty army. Sanjaya! It is enough. Dont tell anything more.
What will happen it will happen according to fate."
Suyodhana
could not tolerate the grief of his father. "O Father! what is this!
ourselves and Pandavas were born and brought up at one and the same place. How
can they become more strengthened and powerful than us? Why you are praising
them like this? This Empire is ours. God decided that it should belong to us.
Why you are annoyed?" said Suyodhana.
On
hearing these words Dhrutarashtra said: "Sanjaya! hear those words of my
son! How he is talking senselessly? Its alright. Kindly tell me who is
provocating Dharmaja for war?" asked Dhrutarashtra.
"O
King! Dhrushtadyumna, son of Drupada, is repeatedly fomenting the war fire with
his words. He says that he himself will kill the entire Kourava army. Dharmaja
accepts it with smile. Dhrushtadyumna also told me "Sanjaya! Tell me who
can match our Arjuna, equipped with Pasupata, on your side. Let them pray for
mercy and let them live for ever" These are the words of
Dhrushtadyumna." said Sanjaya.
Then
Dhrutarashtra turned to Suyodhana: "O my son Suyodhana! Are you not
satisfied with the half share in the kingdom. Why cannot you give the rest to
Dharmaja and live happily and peacefully. War is not acceptable not only for me
but also for Bheeshma and other elders. It is better to live amicably with
Pandavas. Tell me why are you not paying heed to the words of elders. Why you
are dancing to the tunes of Sakuni and Karna." asked Dhrutarashtra.
With
these words Suyodhana grew angry. "Because, Bheeshma and Drona are not
paying attention to my words. How can I enter into the war relying upon their
help? I am left only with Karna and Dussasana. I will certainly conquer
Pandavas with the help of Karna and Dussaasana. I will never give away an iota
of space (space occupied by the sharp edge of a needle) to Pandavas. This is my
final decision" said Suyodhana.
Dhrutarashtra
still tried to convice his son. "Suyodhana! Kindly hear my words. Give up
the war. Atleast will you hear my words when Bheema kills your entire army with
his mighty mace or atleast when Arjuna kills your army with his Gaandeevam.
Suyodhana!
Pandavas are also aided by divine power. You are relying on your man power.
Agni gave Kapi Dvaja and Akshaya Tooneeraa to Arjuna. More than that, Pandavas
are alwasy protected by Yama, Vayu, Indra, Asvins. But you are having manpwoer
like Bheeshma, Drona and Karna on your side. We heard that Arjuna is equivalent
to all the divine bodies . Because Arjuna killed the demons who overpowered the
divine bodies. Therfore, Suyodhana! Shed your hatredness. Amicable settlement
and restoring peace is the only solution." said Dhrutarashtra.
But
Suyodhana paid a deaf ear to his words. "O father! Dont say that divine
bodies will help them. What is meant by divinity? Acting beyond likes and
dislikes, love and hatred. Thefore, divine bodies will always be impartial. If
they act partially, their divinity will vanish. Thefore, it is not correct to
say that divine bodies will help pandavas.
If they
are aided by divine bodies why they spent 12 years in forest. If I get angry,
no divine power will save them. Dont think that I am speaking with vanity and
pride. I am telling the truth. You will certainly hear that all the Pandavas,
Drupada, Virata, his sons and brothers, Vasudeva and other Yadavas, Kekaya,
Pandya, Magadha, Chaidya and other great warriors were subdued at my hands.
They are all no match to my valour and prowess.
All the
skills in archery known by Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa and Asvathama, are known by
me also. You need not worry" said Suyodhana.
At that time, Karna told Suyodhana to the hearing of one and all "Suyodhana! all are thinking that as a result of the curse of my guru, Parasurama, all the astras and Sastras have gone out of my memory. The fact is that later, accepting my prayers, my guru Parasurama blessed me with my previous memory. Therfore, the wealth of my Astras and Sastras is equal to divine power. Even the divine bodies cannot stand before me. After all Arjuna is nothing before me. All the Pandavas and their army will be vanished. It is certain." said Karna.
At that time, Karna told Suyodhana to the hearing of one and all "Suyodhana! all are thinking that as a result of the curse of my guru, Parasurama, all the astras and Sastras have gone out of my memory. The fact is that later, accepting my prayers, my guru Parasurama blessed me with my previous memory. Therfore, the wealth of my Astras and Sastras is equal to divine power. Even the divine bodies cannot stand before me. After all Arjuna is nothing before me. All the Pandavas and their army will be vanished. It is certain." said Karna.
Bheeshma
smiled at Karna and said: "Karna! Instigated by Yama you are talking like
this. We cannot stop you. What are you talking? Will Pandavas vanish in the
war? Dont talk unnecessarily? Waste of breath. You may think you can kill
Arjuna with the Sakti given by Indra but that will be broken into pieces by Sri
Krishna. Not only that, all the Astras and Sastras you preserved to kill Arjuna
will be destroyed by Sri Krishna.
Dhrutarashtra!
If all the brothers are united, they will be happy. If they are divided, they
will lose each and everything. Settle the matter amicably. That is all"
said Bheeshma.
On
hearing the words of Bheeshma again Dhritarashtra tried to convince his son
Suyodhana. "Suyodhana! kindly pay heed to the words of Bheeshma. Dont
leave Dharmaja. Give their due share in the kingdom and amicabley settle the
issue" said Dhritarashtra.
Suyodhana
kept quiet as if he heard nothing. Dhritarashtra grew angry.
"Suyodhana!
Why are you keeping quiet. Remember. When Arjuna alone recaptured the cows,
where were you and your army? Yourself and your Karna were very much present
there. What you have done? Karna! Listen. The ensuing war is not capturing the
cows. Now Krishna is the charioteer of Arjuna. On his side Bheema with his
mighty mace is standing. To attack them, your strength is not enough. You will
die in the war and get great fame as a faithful servant to Suyodhana. That only
remains. You are also instigating Suyodhana to die in the war." said
Dhritarashtra.
"Suyodhana!
I am very much distressed with the words of Bheeshma. As long as Bheeshma is in
the war front, I will never enter the war. Later I will show my prowess. It is my
promise" so saying he left the court.
Bheeshma laughed at him "Suyodhana! The great warrior Karna is angry. What to do? Suyodhana! Myself, Drona and Bahlika alone will destroy the entire army of our enemy. Youwill see the difference."
Bheeshma laughed at him "Suyodhana! The great warrior Karna is angry. What to do? Suyodhana! Myself, Drona and Bahlika alone will destroy the entire army of our enemy. Youwill see the difference."
But
Suyodhana is in favour of Karna. "Knowingly or unknowingly all are saying
that Pandavas will win the war. In the first instance, I intended to wage war
against Pandavas, relying upon you and Drona and Bahlika. Now I changed my
mind. We need nobody's help. Myself, karna and Dussasana alone are enough.
Victory is ours" said Suyodhana.
Dhritarashtra
was very much distressed with the words of his son. "Vidura! My son along
with Karna is in death trap. Tell me what to do?" asked Dhritarashtra.
"O
king! if we are quarrelling like this, it will help Arjuna to accomplish his
task. Stop unnecessary discussions. Send for Pandavas. Have a settlement"
said Vidura.
"Sanjaya!
while leaving the court of Dharmaja, what Arjuna spoke to you?" asked
Dhritarashtra.
"O king! Arjuna asked me to tell you the following words. "Sanjaya! Dharmaja is requesting for our due share in the kingdom. If they refuse, war and their death in war is imminent." concluded Sanjaya.
"O king! Arjuna asked me to tell you the following words. "Sanjaya! Dharmaja is requesting for our due share in the kingdom. If they refuse, war and their death in war is imminent." concluded Sanjaya.
Then
Dhritarashtra dismissed the assembly. Dhritarashtra, Vidura, Sanjaya and Suyodhana
remained there.
Again
Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya "Sanjaya! you know all the warriors on both
sides. In case of war, can you guess who will win?" asked Dhritarashtra.
"O
king! instead of asking me this question, you can ask Vyasa in the presence of
your wife Gandhari. Send for them" said Sanjaya.
Dhritarashtra
thought in his mind Vyasa and sent for his wife Gandhari. Saint Vyasa appeared
before him.
"Sanjaya!
You are aware of everything. Give reply to the question of Dhritarasthra"
asked Saint Vyasa. Sanjaya bowed before Vyasa and said:
"O
king Dhritarashtra! you aksed me the difference between both armies. On the
side of Pandavas, Sri Krishna is there. Is there any such eminent personality,
equal to Sri Krishna, on your side. The entire strength of Pandavas is Sri
Krishna. If all the three Lokas are kept on one side and Krishna on another
side, Krishna will win.
Where
Truth, Dharma and justice is there, Krishna will be there. Where there is
Krishna , Triumph is there.
O king!
In this world, there are two things. Ignorance and awareness. Persons who are
more influenced by Tamas will be ignorant of Vishnu. Persons who are wise,
humble, educated, and learned will be aware of Vishnu."said Sanjaya.
"Sanjaya!
what is awareness! How could you know about Vishnu? What is ignorance and how
it will be? Kindly tell me." asked Dhritarashtra.
"O
King! every person is influenced by three characters, Satva, Rajas and Tamas. I
will never be influenced by these three characters. I will always be impartial
and follow Dharma without being influenced by Raga and Dvesha. This is called
awareness. With this only, I am aware of Vishnu. Either to you or to anybody,
this is the only way to know aboutVishnu. Which is contrary to the above, is
called ignorance." said Sanjaya.
Dhritarashtra
touched his son and said: "Suyodhana! Sanjaya is our well wisher. Kindly
pay heed to his words. Surrender to Sri Krishna. You and your brothers will be
safe and happy. " requested Dhritarashtra.
"My
dear father! Let the entire universe be destroyed I never lose my courage. I
will never surrender to anybody" said Suyodhana.
"Gandhari!
Have you heard the words your son. He is a crook , wicked and immoral. He will
never shed hatredness. He will never heed my words. He is destined to
die." said Dhritarashtra.
Gandhari,
mother of Suyodhana intervened and said: "My son Suyodhana! Why you are
relinquishing all your royal pleasures, happiness, wealth, kingdom and your
long life. Fate in the form of Bheema is waiting to kill you. Think for yourself"
said Gandhari.
"Dhritarashtra!
You are a devotee of Srikrishna. Hence you have chosen Sanjaya as your
emissary. You have done a good thing. Follow the words of Sanjaya. Surrender
yourself to Krishna. Shed Raga and Dvesha. Think about Krishna with concentrated
mind.You will have mental peace."said Saint Vyasa.
Dhritarashtra
bowed before Vyasa and said "I will do as you say".
He then
asked Sanjaya "Sanjaya! Sri Krishna is called as Vasudeva. How he got that
name?" asked Dhritarashtra.
"Because
Sri Krishna is omnipresent he is called as Vasudeva. If one thinks about him
with pure mind, keeping his senses under control, without Raga and Dvesha, he
will surrender himself to his devotees. Hence, control your senses and think
about Sri Krishna" said Sanjaya.
"O saint Vyasa! as you said I will pray Sri Krishna. But I am blind. I cannot see Sri Krishna in human form. I am so unfortunate." said Dhritarashtra.
Then Saint Vyasa disappeared. Suyodhana, Sanjaya and Gandhari also departed to their royal apartments.MAHA BHARAT
UDYOGA PARVA SECOND CHAPTER COMPLETED.
"O saint Vyasa! as you said I will pray Sri Krishna. But I am blind. I cannot see Sri Krishna in human form. I am so unfortunate." said Dhritarashtra.
Then Saint Vyasa disappeared. Suyodhana, Sanjaya and Gandhari also departed to their royal apartments.MAHA BHARAT
UDYOGA PARVA SECOND CHAPTER COMPLETED.
MAHA BHARAT
UDYOGA PARVA THIRD CHAPTER
Saint
Vaisampaayana continued to tell the story of Mahabharata to Janamejaya.
After
taking leave from Dharmaja, Sanjaya left for Hastinapura.
Next
day, Dharmaja, along with his brothers and other kings, intended to approach
Sri Krishna to discuss about the future course of action.
"Let
all of us go to Sri Krishna and request him to proceed to Hastinapura as an
emissary on our behalf. With this attempt, we can avoid war successfully. We
can avoid the calamity of killing each other in the war." said Dharmaja.
Then
all of them arrived at the place where Sri Krishna was staying. Dharmaja
said:
"O
Lord Sri Krishna! We treat you as our friend, guide and philosopher. You are
our relation. In view of our affinity, we request you to proceed to
Hastinapura as our representative. We hope that Suyodhana will heed to your
words. We will get back our kingdom. You are treating us equal to your sons.
Please help us" prayed Yudhishtira.
On
hearing those words, Krishna said: "Dharmaja! I will do as you like.
Tell me what you expect me to do?" asked Sri Krishna.
Dharmaja
told Sri Krishna thus: "We have heard what the intention of
Dhritarashtra and his sons, is, through Sanjaya. Sanjaya is the soul of
Dhritarashtra and spoke out of his mind. Dhritarashtra seeks to make peace
with us without giving us our kingdom. As per his command, we spent twelve
years in the forest and one additional year in concealment. Still Dhritarashtra
is not abiding by his word. He has got great love affection towards his son.
He is unable to mend him. Owing to affection for his son, he is listening to
the cousels of wicked men and behaving untruthfully towards us. What can be
more danger and sorrow for us than this? We are keeping quiet as useless
fellows wihout knowing how to solve this problem amicably.
O
Krishna, on that day, in the open assembly, to the hearing of one all, I
prayed for only five villages. It is true. But I doubt whether Suyodhana will
give even those five villages asked for by me. Even then, I am not inclined
to wage war against them. Even if I keep quiet without asking for any share
in the kingdom, how can I feed those who are depending on me. Therefore, an
amicable settlement with Kouravas is necessary.
Krishna!
Kouravas are my enemies. Still, why should I kill them in war? Is there any
other amicable solution for this problem without war? We have numerous
kinsmen, and numerous also are the revered seniors, friends and relatives on
the side of Kouravas. The slaughter of these would be highly sinful. What
good, therefore, can there be in battle? If such sinful practices are the
duties of the Kshatriya order, I cannot bear this calamity.
Whether
those practices be sinful or virtuous, any other than the profession of arms
would be censurable for us. Have we to compulsorily wage war and have our
livelihood? But it is not my intention. If we wage war, we will get back our
kingdom. But there will be loss of life. War is a sin. It is true. O Krishna!
Both parties cannot win success, nor both be defeated. The loss, however, on
both sides may be equal. We may win or lose. We cannot say. If we are
defeated in war, it will be worse than death. Victory creates animosity, and
he that is defeated lives in sorrow. He that is peaceful, sleeps in
happiness, giving up all thoughts of victory and defeat, whereas he that has
provoked hostility always sleeps in misery, with an anxious heart, as if
sleeping with a snake in the same room.
Enmity,
O Kesava, is never neutralised by enmity; on the other hand, it is fomented
by enmity. But we cannot suffer at the hands of enemies. Therefore, to
destroy enemity, we have to act cruelly. It is certain that by fomenting
enemity and hostility, there will be misery than happiness. Therefore,
attaining peace is better by all means. I am aspiring for my kingdom without
waging war. Because, by waging war, there will loss of life, loss of property
and loss of prosperity and loss of community. Therefore it is better to have
an amicable solution without resorting to war.
You
need not show any partisan attitude towards us. You can find out a just and
reasonable solution, according to Dharma, agreeable to both sides. Even if
they do not agree for your softspoken words, you can use some harsh language
and settle the matter. Dhritarashtra's affection for his son is great.
Obedient to his son, he will reject our submission. Still keep patience. Dont
give finality to the matter as if there is no scope for mediation. My mind is
disturbed with all these problems. Please lead us in a just and proper way.
Your word is final for us.
At
times I feel that it is not good to approach Suyodhana, because they are bad
and cruel. They will never heed your words. They will go to any extent. I
will never accept even the throne of Indra, in case you suffer any evil at
the hands of Kouravas." said Dharmaja with an agitated mind.
"Dharmaja!
not only Suyodhana, his father Dhritarashtra is equally wicked. Your words
are true. I can understand your anxiety. But you need not worry about me. If
I get angry, none will remain there to fight with me. Send me to Hastinapura.
At this juncture, it is better to go to Hastinapuram. We can reveal our
intentions to the elders in their court." said Sri Krishna.
"O
Krishna! if you feel it just to go to Hastinapura and visit the Kuru
assembly, you can do so and effect mediation between us because it would in
favour of both sides. You know much about us and also about Kouravas. You
know what is friendship. You know how to deal with this critical task. I am
not that much learned to tell you." said Dharmaja.
"Dharmaja! I heard what you have said and also what had been said by Sanjaya. You are a righteous person. They never leave animosity. They regard themselves strong, having Bhishma and Drona and Kripa and others on their side. You are also kshatriyas. Victory or death in battle, has been eternally ordained by the Creator; even that is the duty of a Kshatriya. They are enjoying the kingdom acquired by them by illegal means. They never part with even a smallest portion. The sons of Dhritarashtra are not afraid of Adharma. Do not show any compassion for that wretch of such disposition. They deserve death at the hands of Pandavas. Take back your kingdom and enjoy the royal pleasrues. Acquire name and fame.
On that
day, in the full assembly, they caused you much hardship and mental agony.
They are not repenting for those acts till today. Is it just and proper to
show compassion, kindness towards them. Will any body there in the world who
will not pounce upon them with anger.
While the match at dice was in progress, the wretched Dussasana of most wicked soul, seizing that weeping lady by the hair, dragged princess Draupadi, as if she had no protectors, to the assembly of kings, and in the presence of Bhishma and Drona and others, spoke such words which cannot be repeated here. Restrained by you , your brothers of terrible prowess, bound also by the bonds of virtue, did nothing to avenge it. On that day, every body cursed Dhritarashtra. All the wicked were already killed by God. It is easy for you to kill them in the battle. Therefore, the wicked Kouravas are fit to be killed. The sinful and evil-minded Duryodhana deserves death at the hands of every one, even like a serpent. Kill him, and hesitate not in the least.
But you
should pay homage to your father Dhritarashtra and also to Bhishma and other
elders. In the presence of all kings I will enumerate all those virtues of
yours, as also all the vices of Duryodhana. And hearing me speaking such
beneficial words, the rulers of various realms will regard you as possessed
of a virtuous soul, and as a speaker of truth, while at the same time, they
will understand how Duryodhana is actuated by avarice. I shall strive to make
peace without sacrificing your interests. If the matter is amicably settled,
it willbe well and good for all. Even if the peace talks fail, I willbe in a
position to assess their preparations and arrangements for war and also
assess their strength and power.
As long as he lives, Duryodhana will, by no means, be able to give back your kingdom. I think war with the enemy is certain. All the omens that are noticeable by me point to that. Making ready their weapons, let all your warriors be prepared for battle, and let them take care of their elephants and horses and cars." said Sri Krishna.
On
hearing these words, Bhimasena spoke thus: "Sri Krishna! Dont threaten
us about war. First you proceed to Hastinapura. Dont deal with Suyodhana
roughly. Behave with him mildly and try for an amicable settlement.
Duryodhana is by nature sinful of heart. He is intoxicated with the pride of
prosperity. He always acts against the words of his own men and wounds their
hearts. He never cares for anybody.
From
the beginning he wasnot caring me. He was always picking up quarrels with me.
What can we do? As per the wish of my brother Dharmaja, we have to settle the
matter with them amicably. I cannot avoid companionship with him. Originally,
we were all living amicably. Due to his greediness only, all this had
happened. He has become a destroyer of Kuru Dynasty. Atleast you put him in a
right direction. He will never change till his death. All of us would, rather
in humiliation, follow Duryodhana submissively. Krishna, in the open
assembly, to the hearing of our grand father and our Grand father Bheeshma
and our preceptor Drona, you tell Suyodhana on my behalf that we are brothers
and we should not quarrel amongst us in such a way that others will point
their finger towards us. Let us follow the words of elders and divide the
kingdom amongst ourselves and enjoy. That would be better.
Krishna!
somehow or other, you should see that the matter is settled amicably. If all
the brothers are living together, the entire world will be happy. " said
Bheema.
On
hearing these words of Bheema, Krishna laughed at him and said: "Is it
Bheema who has spoken these words? Or am I mistaken! As if the mountains had
lost their weight and fire had become cold, you are speaking about amicable
settlement. Have you forgotten your vow? Is it not fighting with enemies and
frighten them with your prowess; putting an end to the pride of Suyodhana;
endowing the entire kingdom to your brother, Dharmaja. You know not what fear
is. But you are exhibiting such a cowardice which is unknown to Bheema. Who
taught you this kind of cowardice?" laughed Sri Krishna.
Bheema
grew angry. "Krishna! please hold your tongue. We are all bound by the
word of our brother Dharmaja. You know about my vigour and valour. How you
speak like this? If necessary I will move both earth and heaven. Mind
it." said Bheema.
"Oh
Bheema! why you are so angry. It is a joke. Dont be angry. Dont I know about
your prowess. As you have spoken those words, having forgotten about the
hardship caused to you by Suyodhana, I spoke like that. Arjuna requested me
to be his charioteer and I agreed for that. If you are not by our side, how
can we acquire victory"
Krishna pacified Bheema. "O Krishna! what you are talking? Will I keep quiet with foldedhands, while you and Arjuna are fighting with enemies? First you proceed to Hastinapura and have comfortable reconciliation between us. Bheema will never get angry with your words. If war were to happen, I will break the heads of elephants and smash the horses. You will astonish about my untiring efforts in the battle." said Bheema holding his mace.
"Bheemaa!
I know your strength, vigour and prowess. You will do more than what you
said. I will certainly go to the Kuru assembly and make my efforts for
settlement. If at all war is imminent, you alone should save us." said
Krishna with a smile.
Then
Arjuna spoke to Krishna: "O Krishna! Yudhishthira has already told you
what should be spoken to in the Kuru assembly. But, hearing what you have
said, it seems to me that you do not think peace to be easily obtainable
either in consequence of Dhritarashtra's greediness or from our present weakness.
You will accomplish that which is for the good of both the Kurus and the
Pandavas. Beholding ourselves vanquished by sinful means and banished to the
forests, I thought that Suyodhana deserves death at my hands. Hence, you said
that war is inevitable.
Surely, you know how Draupadi was insulted in the midst of the assembly by Duryodhana of sinful soul and how also we bore it with patience. But dont keep all of them in mind while mediating with Suyodhana and restore peace. This is all what I wish." said Arjuna. "Arjuna! I will strive to bring about that which would be beneficial to both the Pandavas and the Kurus. But Suyodhana will never make peace by giving up the kingdom. Had he inclined to partwith the half share in the kingdom, he would not have fomented the enimity since childhood. I will tell you one thing. Remember his words at the time of capturing the cows of Virata. Bheeshma said that the hero who has come is Phalguna and it cannot be said that we can conquer him easily. He solicited Suyodhana about peace so beneficial to all. Suyodhana did not consent to part with the smallest portion of the kingdom. Now how can he agree for peace. However I will go to the Kuru assembly to know about their views regarding war." said Sri Krishna. Then Nakula spoke thus: "Krishna! I follow what my brothers have said. The anger and anguish influenced us while we were in forest and exile, is not now in our mind. Simply because they committed a wrong, we need not repeat the same. After the defeat at the hands of Arjuna, I think, there may be a change in the minds of Suyodhana and his followers. They know pretty well that we are now equipped with seven akshouhini army and an emininent personality like you. Besides we have the support of the Kings of Panchala, Yadava, Pandya, Matsya and other kingdoms. Will they not frighten about Bheema and Arjuna? Will not Bhishma and Drona convince Suyodhana? I hope that your softspoken words of Dharma will certainly bring a change in their minds. You will succeed in your mission. We will get back our kingdom" said Nakula. On hearing the words of Nakula, Sahadeva said thus: "Krishna! my brothers have spoken softly denying war. You have heard them without speaking a single word. You are going to Kuru assembly for begging for our due share in the kingdom. What Krishna! Do you expect that Suyodhana will part with the half share in the Kingdom. Not at all. I do not how the valiant warriors like Bheema and Arjuna are speaking like this. How the kings, who have come all the way from far off places to fight on our behalf, will think about us and also about Dharmaja's begging for a share in the kingdom; Krishna's proposal for half share and restoration of peace and Suyodhana's refusal. Will there be any heinous act than this. Will this begging food be delicious for us. Even if they give a small portion in the kingdom, the mediation will fail. War is certain. You tell Suyodhana on my behalf like this: "Suyodhana! if you are placed in our position, what will you do? After spending 13 years in exile, If you ask for a half share and if we refuse, how you will think of us. Therefore, you have to divide the kingdom and give us our due share. Oherwise, your death in war is certain. We are not now in a position to heed your words. Tell him that these are the words of Sahadeva." told Sahadeva. Satyaki felt very happy on hearing the words of Sahadeva. "O Sahadeva! You have spoken correctly. There is no use of preaching sermons to Suyodhana. We will lose our prestige. All the kings assembled here are in favour of war. Viewing from any angle, war is our first and foremost task." said Satyaki. All have acclaimed the words of Sahadeva and Satyaki. Then Droupadi rose from her seat and said: "Besides grabbing our kingdom by deceitful means, and sending us to forests, they sent Sanjaya to console us. Yudhishtira was flattered with those words and requested for five villages. Even if they refuse to give those five villages, he will keep quiet. What a wonder it is! Dharmaja may shower his love and affection towards his brother, Suyodhana and swallow all those insults caused to him. But if he keeps quiet even without asking for a share in the kingdom, will there be any cowards, useless, incompetent and shameless people like Pandavas, on earth. Krishna! why should we prove ourselves as lowest of all. This mediation is certainly in their favour. Kouravas are nothing before Pandavas. Are they Brahmins deserving pardon, even if they commit any number of mistakes and sins. I am sure that Suyodhana will never pay heed to your words. If again the war atmosphere repeats in the Kuru assembly, what will Pandavas do? Will they again go back to exile or declare war against Kouravas? This is what I meant. You do as you like. Krishna! I was born from sacred fire. I entered Bharata Race. I became the daughter in law of King Pandu. My husbands are endowed with great vigour and valour. I got more powerful sons. You are regarding me more than your sister, Subhadra. After taking the holy bath, on completion of Rajasuya Yada, my hair became pure and sacred. Such hair were caught by a wicked person like Dussasana, who dragged me into the open assembly, and insulted me in the presence of my husbands. Will anybody do like this? While my husbands were sitting with their heads down, I prayed you with great devotion. You should remember all these things, while having peace talks with them. On that day, King Dhritarashtra insulted me like a servant. If I were to go before him along with my husbands, shall I have to stand before him as a servant or as a daughter in law. Think about this also." So saying she suddenly stood up and held her long black hair in her hand. "Krishna! This is the hair caught and dragged by Dussaasana. You also keep this in mind while having peace talks with them. My mind will rest in peace only when the hands of Dussaasana are brutally severed in the war field. The heart burning will not extinguish unless myself and Yushishtira will both behold the dead body of Suyodhana. Otherwise, why for the mighty bow, Gaandeevam, in the hands of Arjuna and the heavy mace in the hands of Bheema, except tobe burnt. Having five mighty warriors as my husbands and yourself as my brother, I am bearing this fire of insult. How long I have to bear this insult like this, I do not know." said Droupadi. On hearing these words Krishna said: "O Droupadi! Rest assured that Kouravas will never give our share in the kingdom. War is certain and all the Kouravas will die in the war. So far you have suffered a lot. The same sufferings will be meted out by the wives of Kouravas also. Kouravas never heed my words as the sound of bells tied round the neck of buffaloe of Yama, are ringing in their ears. Therefore war is imminent. It is the truth." said Krishna, consoling Droupadi. "Krishna! kindly do justice for both of us. This is all what I want to say" said Arjuna. "Krishna! Your birth star is Rohini. Tomorrow star is Revathi. Chandra Bala and Tara bala are very good for you tomorrow. Hence tomorrow is most auspicious for your journey." said Yudhishtira. Then Krishna called Satyaki and asked him to put his Mace and Chakra and other weapons in the chariot. He fixed some Yadavas to follow him to Hastinapuram. He also asked Satyaki to be along with him during the visit of Hastina. Krishna ordered his charioteer, Daruka, to make his chariot ready for travel. Next day, Krishna left Upaplavya for Hastina. Dharmaja and Arjuna gave him send off at the outskirts. "Krishna! My mother Kunti is in Hastinapura. Kindly meet her and inform her about our welfare. Kindly convey my pranams to her. Also kindly convey my pranams to my preceptors, Drona and Krupacharya and also to Vidura." said Dharmaja. Krishna accepted his request and left Upaplavyam. He made a halt at Kusasthali. Dhritarashtra came to know about the arrival of Sri Krishna. Immediately he convened a meeting with Bheeshma, Drona, Vidura, Suyodhana, Karna, Saindhava and Sakuni. "Krishna is arriving to Hastinapura on an important mission. We have to receive him with due honors. Make arrangements immediately for a grand reception." ordered Dhritharashtra. On hearing about the arrival of Sri Krishna, Bheeshma and Vidura felt very happy. Suyodhana had taken this responsibility. "Vidura! we have to provide a suitable palace for the comfortable stay of Sri Krishna at Hastinapura. We have to gratify Sri Krishna with our valuable offerings." said Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra! We have no capacity to offer five villages to Pandavas. How can we offer valuable items to Krishna. I could read your mind. You are seeking to make him happy by means of your wealth; and you seek to separate Kesava from the Pandavas. Are you such an unwise man. Even if you offer Mount Meru, Krishna will never leave Arjuna. Offer him only a vessel of water, only the washing of his feet, make only the usual enquiries about his welfare that is sufficient Janardana will not accept any other hospitality or set his eyes on any other thing. Accomplish his desire of benefiting both parties, for which he has come. Kesava desires peace to be established between you and Duryodhana on one side and the Pandavas on the other. " said Vidura. "What Vidura said is true. Sri Krishna will never leave Pandavas. It is definite. If we try to gratify him with our valuable offerings, others may think that we are doing all these things due to the fear about Pandavas. Our enemies may take advantage of this. It is not good for us" said Suyodhana. "O king! Worshipped or not worshipped, Janardana never becomes angry. He is coming here only to help Pandavas. Do without hesitation what Krishna says and bring about peace with the Pandavas through Vasudeva." said Bheeshma. "Krishna will come and tell us to give half share in the kingdom to Pandavas. I will never agree for it. Let it be. As you said, Sri Krishna is the whole and soul of Pandavas. Now, if we imprison Sri Krishna, Pandavas will be like parrots with broken wings. All Yadavas, Panchalas, will come to our side. I will rule the entire universe. I am making arrangements in that direction. Now you can speak as you like" said Suyodhana. All are astonished on hearing the words of Suyodhana. "What! Do you imprison Sri Krishna! Are you mad! Give up this wicked idea. Sri Krishna is arriving here as an ambassador. We have to respect him. It is our Dharma. What is the wrong he committed for being imprisoned? " asked Dhritarashtra. "O King! Your sons will vanish if he impirsons Sri Krishna. I cannot stay here any more. I am leaving" so saying Bheeshma left that place. Later, Dhritarashtra deputed Bheeshma, Drona, Bahlika and others to receive Sri Krishna at the outskirts of Hastinapura. All have gone to the outskirts and offered him a grand reception. Sri Krishna followed by Satyaki entered Hastinapuram. On arrival of Sri Krishna, Dhritarahstra hugged Sri Krishna and enquired about the welfare of pandavas. Sri Krishna also enquired about the Welfare of Dhritarashtra and his family members. Dhritarashtra offered him Arghyam and Padyam. Sri Krishna, on behalf of Yudhishtira, offered his Pranams to Bheeshma, Drona and other elders. With the permission of Dhritarashtra, Sri Krishna proceeded to the palace of Vidura. Then he proceeded to the palace where Kunti was staying. Beholding Sri Krishna, Kunti wept and Krishna consoled her. "O Krishna! There is nothing unknown to you. My sons are righteous. Instead of enjoying royal plealsures, they were sent to forest, deserting me also. Is Yudhishtira safe? What about Bheema and Arjuna? The twins Nakula and Sahadeva are safe? Is my Daughter in law Droupadi doing well? I like her very much. I cannot foreget her services. I am very much annoyed on hearing about the insult meted out by her in the open assembly. Except Vidura, none assailed that incident. Krishna! It is very painful for me to eat the unpleasant food offered by Kouravas all these thirteen years. But I treated Suyodhana and others as my own sons. It is true. I cannot blame anybody for what had happened. Krishna! Why pandavas are aspiring for the wealth by begging others. Tell Dharmaja that nobody cares for a warrior without prowess. Why should Kshatriya lady gives birth to children? Only with fond hope that they should become mighty warriors with great vigour and valour. Otherwise, they cannot be foremost of all men. You tell this to Bheema and Arjuna. Living with cowardice is not the nature of Kshatriya order. Kshatriyas should live as mighty heroes with great prowess. Tell this to Nakula and Sahadeva. Still if they do not understand my words, let them learn from Droupadi." said Kunti. "O aunt Kunti! Dont worry. Your sons are not cowards. They are mighty heroes with intelligence, prowess, wisdom and energy. They will enjoy only heroic pleasures." said Krishna. "Krishna! Pandavas treat you as their father, preceptor and God. You have to look after their welfare. None will land in troubles if they trust you." said Kunti. Then Krishna proceeded to the palace of Suyodhana followed by Satyaki and Kritavarma. At that time, Suyodhana was sitting on his throne surrounded by Bheeshma, Drona, Karna, Sakuni, Saindhava, Dussaasana, Vikarna, Durmukha and others. On hearing about the arrival of Sri Krishna, Suyodhana received him and offered a suitable seat. Krishna hugged Suyodhana and Dussaasana and enquired about their welfare. Suyodhana invited Sri Krishna for a dinner in his palace. Sri Krishna rejected his offer smoothly. "Krishna! Having come to my house, not accepting dinner offered by me is not proper. You are equivalent to both Pandavas and us. My father likes you very much. What is the reason for not accepting my dinner?" asked Suyodhana. "Suyodhana! I have come here as a mediator, as an emissary to mediate between you. Hence it is not proper on my part to take dinners or receive any offerings. Soon after my mission is accomplished, I will certainly dine with you." said Krishna. "Mediation is different. Dinner is different. What is the link between these two. Let us dine together and then settle the matters. I do not find any valid reason for not accepting my dinner" said Suyodhana. "Food offered with love and affection is more delicious than the food taken at a place where danger is lurking. Of course, I am not anticipating any danger from your side. But for the present, I cannot dine in your house. While taking food at a hostile place, suspicision is natural. You bore grudge against Pandavas. They are dearer to me. Since their childhood, you are showing some unreasonable hatredness. Everybody knows it. Is it just to bear grudge upon such a righteous people. Hence I thought it fit not to dine in your house who are bearing grudge against Pandavas. I will dine in the house of Vidura." said Krishna. Then he took leave from Suyodhana and left for the palace of Vidura. Vidura received Sri Krishna with utmost devotion and offered him arghyam and Padyam and good food. Sri Krishna dined with Vidura. While taking rest, Vidura told Sri Krishna: " Dhritarashtra's son is wicked and wrathful, insults others, and disobeys the commands of the aged. He is, O Madhava, a transgressor of the scriptures, and of wicked soul, already overtaken by fate, untractable, and disposed to do evil to those that seek his good. His soul is possessed by desire and lust. He foolishly regards himself as very wise. He is the enemy of all his true friends. He is endued with these and many other vices. He will never heed your words. The foolish son of Dhritarashtra has arrived at the conclusion that Karna, single-handed, is competent to vanquish his foes.On hearing about your arrival, they have decided not to heed your words, not to part with the half share in the kingdom, and rule the entire universe for themselves. All the kings gathered here are those who were defeated by Pandavas at the time of Rajasooya Yaga. They are now ready to fight against Pandavas. Hence this peace mission will fail. Time has come for them. Therefore they are provoking for war. Hence, you should not go into the midst of these wicked-minded wretches seated together. Therefore, dont go there. This is my request" said Vidura. "Vidura! I entirely agree with you. But they should know why I have come? I should know what they feel about my visit! I know the wickedness of Suyodhana. I know that they will never agree for mediation. If a man striving to the best of his abilities to perform a virtuous act meets with failure, I have not the least doubt that the merit of that act becomes his, notwithstanding such failure. I will sincerely endeavour, to bring about peace between the Kurus and the Pandavas who are about to be slaughtered in battle, so that persons outside may not afterwards say that though competent, still Krishna did not make any attempt to restrain the Kurus and the Pandavas from slaughtering one another. If after listening to my auspicious words, the foolish Duryodhana does not accept them, he will only invite his fate." said Krishna. Later, Vidura took leave from Sri Krishna and went to sleep. Next day morning, Sri Krishna was sitting along with Satyaki and Kruta Varma in the inner apartment of Vidura and were talking with each other. Suyodhana accompanied by Karna and Dussaasana arrived there. After talking for a while, Suyodhana said: "O Krishna! my father, Dhritarashtra, along with his relatives friends, and ministers was sitting in the assembly and I have come to invite you to the Kuru assembly. Then Krishna, accompanied by Satyaki and Krutavarma, followed Suyodhana, Dussaasana, Karna and Sakuni to the Kuru assembly. At the assembly, Vidura received Sri Krishna with due honours and lead him to his seat. To hear the message of Sri Krishna, Narada and other sages and saints also arrived there and seated on respectable seats. Satyaki and Krutavarma seated on either side of Sri Krishna. Vidura sat behind Sri Krishna. Suyodhana and Karna sat side by side. Gandhara King, Sakuni sat separately along with his sons. All were anxiously waiting to hear what Sri Krishna will say. Sri Krishna rose from his seat and said: "O King Dhritarashtra! You are well aware of all the facts. Keeping in view the welfare of Bharata Race, in order that peace may be established between the Kurus and the Pandavas without a slaughter of the heroes, I have come here to tell few words beneficial to both. It is better that both Panadavas and Kouravas should live amicably like milk and water and it is your responsibility to accomplish this task. You have no partiality between Pandavas and Kouravas. Your Bharata race owing to its learning and righteous behaviour, and owing also to its being adorned with every accomplishment, is most distinguished among all royal dynasties. Joy in the happiness of others, grief at sight of other people's misery, desire to alleviate distress, abstention from injury, sincerity, forgiveness, and truth,--these, prevail amongst the Kurus. Then your race, therefore, O king, is so noble. In such a race, yourself and your brother King Pandu, your sons and son of King Pandu were born. It would be a pity if anything improper was done by any one belonging to such a great race, and greater pity still if it were done by you. You are solely responsible for all good and bad done in your Kuru race. You have to look after the welfare of all your family members. Your wicked sons, headed by Duryodhana, abandoning both virtue and truth, disregarding morality, and deprived of their senses by avarice, are now acting most unrighteously towards, their foremost of kinsmen. It is better if Kouravas behave in a righteous manner and live peacefully. Otherwise, it will then produce a universal slaughter(war). Therefore, O king Dhritarashtra! kindly keep confidence in my words and solve this problem amicably. It is in your hands. You are capable of establishing peace. Now, let us compare the strength of the warriors on both sides. Kindly tell me who will fight with Bheema and Arjuna effectively on your side. Equally, there are none on side of Pandavas who can attack Bheeshma and Drona. Therefore, instead of mass killings in war, it is better to effect peaceful settlement between brothers. You are the Emperor of this Kuru Dynasty. Kouravas and Pandavas are your sons. Is it proper on your part to have hostile attitude on one side. If you are indifferent to the situation it will end in mass masssacre.O King Dhritarashtra! if anybody dies either in your side or on the side of Pandavas, you have to suffer. That suffering will not favour you in any manner. Both Pandavas and Kouravas are wise, learned and of great prowess. Is it wise on your part to keep quiet while they are dying in an unwanted war. Therefore, strive for peace by restraining your sons. Then you will be acclaimed by one and all. Besides that, Pandavas lost their father while they were infants. Since then, you brought them up with love and affection. Is it just on your part to leave them now without any reason. You have to shower your love and affection throughout their life. All Pandavas with one voice said the following words with foldled hands: "O father! As per your word, we spent 12 years in forests and one year unrecognised. We have decided that we are entitled to half share in the kingdom which was ruled by my father, King Pandu, during his lifetime. You are equivalent to my father, mother, relation, and you are our protector. If we have committed any wrong, kindly pardon us and direct us in a right path. There are none for us except you. Either ourselves or Kouravas might have committed wrongs but if you do not transgress virtue and dharma, truth will prevail. Where, in the presence of the virtuous members of an assembly, righteousness is sought to be overpowered by unrighteousness, and truth by the untruth, it is those members themselves that are to be blamed." O King Dhritarashra! these are the words of Pandavas. Kindly give them proper reply. I told these words keeping in view, Dharma, morality and also the relationship between us. You also shed anger and hatredness and take a wise decision. What will be just and proper except giving their due share in the kingdom. What will be great dharma and wise decision except this. There is no othergo except giving their half share in the kingdom. O virtuous people assembled here! kindly advise the King. O King Dhritarashtra! follow dharma. Divide the Kingdom. Give Pandavas the share which their father was entitled during his life time. Give Kouravas, the share which you are entitled. Let both of them live happily with their sons and grandsons. You know that Yudhishthira always follows the righteous path. You also know what the behaviour of Yudhishtira towards you and your sons. While he was in Indraprastha, he brought name, fame and prestige to you. He conquered all the kings and extended the boundaries of your kingdom. While he was living happily in his kingdom, your sons invited him for dice game, grabbed his kingdom and wealth by deceitful means and insulted their wife in the open assembly. You have given your consent for all the above immoral acts. You sent them to forests and made them to suffer much hardship. Inspite of all these sufferings, Yudhishtira is still seeking friendly relations with you. That is Yudhishtira. Who else in this universe has such a virtue, righteousness and regard to truth. O King Dhritarashtra! keeping in view the welfare of your son, Suyodhana, I spoke these words. You elimite greediness from the mind of Suyodhana. Invite Pandavas who are peaceloving. They are ready to serve you. If you dont accept this, they are ready for war. They are ready for either of these courses. Choose a right path. I will wait for your wise decision. " said Sri Krishna. All have heard the words of Krishna with great devotion but none dare to reply. Saint Jamadagni rose and said: "Suyodhana! in the ancient past, there was a king called Dambodhbhava! He was very proud. At that time, Nara and Narayana were doing Tapassu on Gandhamadhana mountain. King Dambhodhbhava went against them to fight. The saints who were doing Tapassu there chastised him.He did not heed their words At that time, nara, holding Dharbhas in his hand, fought with Dambhodhbhava and defeated him. Dambhodhbhava lost his life. Nara is none other than Arjuna. Therefore, dont fight with Arjuna with unusual pride. Have a peaceful settlement with Pandavas" said Jamadagni. Then Saint Kanva rose and said: "Suyodhana! You should never enter war with pride and arrogance, without knowing your strength and the strength of the opposite side. Listen this story how the pride and arrogance of Garuda was proved futile. Matali was the charioteer of Devendra. His daughter was Gunakesi. She was a celestial beauty. He was insearch of a suitable bridegroom for his daughter. At last he fixed Sumukha son of Kuru, grand son of the serpant king, Aryaka, as the bridegroom. Matali approached Aryaka and proposed his daughter to Sumukha. With great distress Aryaka said: "Matali! Garuda killed my son Kuru. He proclaimed with anger that he will also kill Sumukha within one month. Hence I cannot agree for your proposal." said Aryaka. "You need not worry. I will approach Devendra and save the life of Sumukha." said Matali and took Aryaka and Sumukha to Devendra. At that time, Devendra and Vishnu were sitting together. Matali represented the matter to Devendra and requested him to save the life of Sumukha. Accordingly, Devendra blessed Sumukha with long life. On hearing this, Garuda grew angry. In the presence of Vishnu, Garuda asked Devendra: "You are the son of Aditi. I am the son of Vinata. Kashyapa is our common father. Let both of us kill all the demons. I am in no way inferior to you. Why you interfere in my affair and saved Sumukha." asked Garuda. "Garudaa! It is not my decision. This is the decision of Vishnu" said Devendra. "Brother Devendra! You do not know about me. The entire divine community is not even equivalent to my feather." said Garuda with great pride. Vishnu looked at Garuda with smile "O Garuda! are you so strong and powerful. Show me your strength" so saying Vishnu just put his hand on the back of Garuda. For that weight, Garuda collapsed crying aloud. Vishnu removed his hand. Garuda relaxed. "Garuda! your pride and egoism will not work out at all times. Be careful" said Vishnu. Therefore, Suyodhana, pride and egoism is not at all appreciable. Narada knows all these things. Therefore, be friendly with Pandavas and be happy" said Saint Kanva. Then Narada said thus: "Suyodhana! However high you may be, if the otherside is more powerful, your strength will always be less. However powerful you are, Dharma is greater than you. Before virtue, pride and egoism will have no legs to stand. Obstinacy ought to be avoided; for it is fraught with great evil. Galava is an example for obstinacy. Galava was the student of Visvamitra. On completion of learning, Galava offered Gurudakshina to his preceptor, Visvamitra. Visvamitra said that he does not want anything as Gurudakshina. Gala was so obstinate. He insisted that Visvamitra should accept Gurudakshina. Visvaamitra grew angry. Visvamitra asked him to give eight hundred white horses, with one black ear. Galava went in search of such horses. Inspite of his vigorous search, he could not find such horses. One day, he met his childhood friend, Garuda. Galava told him about his search. Garuda carried Galava on his back and took him to King Yayati. On hearing the desire of Galava, King Yayati said that he has no such horses but he offered his daugher, Madhavi, with the help of whom he may get such horses. Galava, along with Madhavi and Garuda again went in search of such horses. They reached Ayodhya kingdom, ruled by King Ikshvaaku. King Ikshvaaku got 200 such horses, but the king was craving for children. Galava gave Madhavi to Ikshvaaku and in return he received 200 horses, with a condition that Madhavi will remain with Ikshvaaku till he begets a son through her, without losing her virginity. King Ikshvaaku begot a son named Vasumanassudu through Madhavi. He returned Madhavi to Galava. Garuda left Galava advising him to acquire remaining horses in the same manner. Then Galava along with Madhavi went in search of remaining horses. Galava approached King Divodasa, King of Kasi. Galava gave Madhavi to Divodasa and got 200 more horses. Divodasa begot one son Pratyardhana, through Madhavi, without losing her virginity. Madhavi returned back to Galava. Galava, along with Madhavi and four hundred horses went to Bhojapura. King Ousinara was ruling Bhojapura. Galava offered Madhavi to King Ousinara and got 200 more horses. Through Madhavi, Ousinara begot a son, Sibi, without losing her virginity. Galava along with Madhavi went in search of the remaining 200 horses. In the meanwhile Garuda came down to Galava and said: "Galava! in this universe, there are only 600 white horses with one ear black. Therefore, give those 600 horses to your preceptor, Visvamitra and in lieu of the remaining 200 horses, offer Madhavi to himm as usual" said Garuda. All of them went to Visvamitra. "O Saint Visvamitra! Galava is an infant. He does not know the consequences of his obstinacy. Kindly accept 600 horses and in lieu of the remaining 200 horses, kindly accept Madhavi. She is still virgin." said Garuda. Accordingly, Visvamitra accepted 600 horses as well as Madhavi. Visvamitra begot a son, Ashtaka, through Madhavi and gave back Madhavi to Galava. Therefore, Suyodhana, dont be so obstinate as Galava. Had he kept quiet wisely when Visvamitra refused to take Gurudakshina, he would have avoided all these troubles. Therefore obstinacy is always harmful and ought to be avoided; for it is fraught with great evil. Therefore, put an end to enmity with Pandavas and heed the words of Sri Krishna and save the Universe from war." said Narada. But Suyodhana paid a deaf ear to all the advises of those Saints. "O Saints! Lord Brahma might have already decided my fate. All will happen according to my fate. That is all" said Suyodhana. On hearing the words of his son Dhritarashtra said: "O Saints! I am helpless if he does not pay heed to your adivces. Krishna! You have said much useful both for earth and heaven. But I do not find any way to follow them. My son is quite obstinate. You are my relative. Kindly convince my son." prayed Dhritarashtram. "Suyodhana! you were born in famous Bharata Race. A great King like you cannot behave like an ordinary arrogant person. Follow the adivse of your father and other elders. Be friendly with Pandavas. If you follow the adivse of inferior people, you will land in trouble. The adivse of Karna and Sakuni will always cause harm to you. You have abandoned your brothers, Bheema and Arjuna who are great warriors, and seeking the help of other useless kings.Pandavas never bear grudge or enmity against you. Why you are denying relationship with them? If you are united, all the other kings will be under your control and will serve you. Those who are fomenting ill feelings between you will never come to your rescue in case of war. None of these kings are not at all equivalent to the prowess of Bheemasena. If you are able to find a single person who is able to fight with Arjuna, you can certainly go for war. Why you unnecessarily become the cuase for total massacre. You remember well that when you captured cows of Matsya kingdom, Arjuna alone, without the help of any army, could get back the cows. It is well known to all. Now, the position is different. I am the charioteer of Arjuna. He is equipped with seven akshouhini strong army. Therefore give up the idea of war. You will unnecessarily be blamed for the destruction of Kuru race. Heed my words. Be friendly with Pandavas. While your father is ruling the entire universe, you will assist your Father, as Yuva Raja. All the Pandavas will be acting under the guidance of your father. While Pandavas are extending their friendly hand, you are denying the same, as if denying the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi. Think over it." said Sri Krishna. "Suyodhana! Kindly hear the words of your father, peacefully. Sri Krishna has come all the way to Hastinapura to speak few words in our favour. It is not advisable to reject them. Why you intend to destroy the name and fame of Kuru Race during the lifetime of your father. Enmity with Krishna and Arjuna is destructive not only to you and your relatives but also to the entire universe." said Bheeshma. "Suyodhana! We are all your well wishers. If you follow the words of Krishna, you will be endowed with great wealth and happiness. I cannot tell more than that" said Drona. "O my son Suyodhana! kindly follow the words of elders and your preceptors. You go along with Krishna and meet your brother Yudhishtira. Everything will end well." finally said Dhritarashtra. "Suyodhana! Even before Arjuna entering the war field, with Krishna as his charioteer, meet Yudhishtira and save the Kuru race. If you bow before Yudhishtira, he will hug you. Yourself and Bheema will hug each other. Arjuna and twins will bow before you. You respect each other. The entire kings on the earth will appreciate your move. Kuru race will flourish. Having beholding your unity, the kings who have come to fight on your behalf will return back to their respective places with abundant joy. Therefore, enjoy the kingdom and be happy." said Bheeshma and Drona in one voice. Having heard all these words with great patience, Suyodhana rose and said: "Krishna! my grand father, Bhishma, my preceptor Drona and my father King Dhritarashtra, will always be scolding me all the time. You are also scolding me now, unjustly. What can I do. Pandavas, without any reason, developed enmity with us on the pretext that we insulted Droupadi in open assembly and we sent them to forests. Now they are trying to kill us. Krishna! viewing from any angle, is there any fault of mine. Dharmaja is a gambler. He provoked Sakuni to play dice game. He played and lost the entire kingdom. He did not keep quiet Again he continued to bet and lost bet by bet. Whatever he did, he did willingly and out of his own volition. We never forced or instigated him to play dice game and lose his kingdom. Am I responsible for the faults or losses of his own? Now, he conspired with the Kings of Matsya and Panchala and ready to wage war against us. Have we, at any time, resorted to such kind of terrorism. Krishna! As per the Kshatriya order, if any kshatriya dies in war, he will become a great hero. He will enjoy the heavenly pleasures. I never bow even before Indra, abandoning kshatriya order. While we were young, without knowing the legal implications, my father divided the kingdom and gave them half share. How can I keep quiet, now, if my father divides the kingdom, without considering our strength and prowess. I will never allow such division. Dividing the kingdom into two will never happen. I will never agree to part with any land even to the extent of the edge of a sharp needle. Who ever wins the war will rule the Kuru Kingdom. This is my final decision" said Suyodhana. Krishna grew angry but controlled himself. "Suyodhana! It will certainly happen. Tomorrow itself the war will begin. Your fall is certain. What! You are not at fault in all these affairs. Kindly tell when you were friendly with Pandavas without causing harm and hardship. Since their childhood, you have been bearing grudge and hatredness against them. You mixed poison in their food; got them bitten with deadly poisonous snakes; tied their hands and legs and threw them in deep waters; and tried to burn them in a lac house. You attempted several times to kill them. But their virtuous life, truth and dharma saved them. Not satisfied with all these heinous acts, you created a dice game and defeated Yudhishtira by deceitful means. Have you ever find any body in this Universe who played dice game with brothers and dragged their wife by holding her tuft, to the open assembly, except you. The words spoken to by you and Karna on that day are not worth-repeating, in this assembly. What had happened on that day, everybody knows. You alone can pretend innocence, even after committing all these atrocities. Besides that, you are blaming Pandavas that they are provoking you for war. What kind of life you are leading? You will never pay heed to the adivices of your father, grand father and preceptor. Knowing fully well that you will never agree for amicable settlement, once again, as a peaceloving person, I am advising you to restore peace and be happy." said Krishna. On hearing these words, Suyodhana grew angry. Dussaasana murmered in his ears: "Brother Suyodhana! This is not the way that our father, grandfather and preceptors shouldspeak. All these are forcing you to agree for settlement. You should not stay here any longer. Kindly leave this place" said Dussaasana. Then Suyodhana, without observing the norms, left the assembly. Along with Suyodhana, his brothers, Karna, Sakuni and his friends also left the assemby. All of them gathered outside and were conspiring with each other. Observing this move, Bheeshma thought: "Why he left the assembly abruptly. Is he insane. Is he influenced by greediness, lust, passion and aggrandizement? All are conspiring together. What they will do is not known" Then Bheeshma came near Sri Krishna and said: "Krishna! Their time has come. Otherwise they will never do like this" said Bheeshma. Then Sri Krishna addressed the courtiers: "Look at his behaviour filled with pride. In order to save the famous Kuru Race and also for the welfare of others, what is wrong even if we abandon him. While King Kamsa was also behaving like this, all my relatives requested me to save them. I killed that wicked Kamsa and installed Ugrasena on throne. It is better if you also do like this. If Suyodhana is not there, Kuru Race will flourish. We can find some solution for amicable settlement between Kouravas and Pandavas. On hearing these words, King Dhritarashtra called Vidura: "Vidura! you please and bring Gandhari to this assembly. I hope Suyodhana will pay heed to her words" said Dhritarashtra. Vidura went inside and brought Gandhari along with him and make her seated by the side of Dhritarashtra. "Gandhari! Your son, Suyodhana, with great pride, left the Kuru Assembly. Will there be such a wicked and cruel person on earth. Kindly convince him and save the Kuru Race" requested Dhritarashtra. "O King! you know pretty well that your son is cruel and wicked and immoral character. Still why are you supporting his deeds. If you are wholeheartedly inclined to give half share in the Kingdom to Pandavas, who will object and so 'no' to your word. Vidura! ask Suyodhana to return to Assembly and resume his seat." said Gandhari. Vidura conveyed the message to Suyodhana. Suyodhana alone reluctantly came back and resumed his seat. Others stayed outside the assembly. Gandhari tried to convince him by telling about Dharma, morality, relationship with Pandavas and also about their livelihood and also about their vigour and valour. Suyodhana paid a deaf ear and did not give any reply. She grew angry and cursed him. Suyodhana again left the assembly with anger and joined Karna and Sakuni. "The intention of Sri Krishna is not appreciable. He influenced Bheeshma and Drona and is bringing pressure on me. It is quite evident from his words. He also quoted the killing of Kamsa. Unlelss we imprison Sri Krishna, Pandavas pride will not vanish. Then they will follow our path. Even otherwise, we can defeat them in war very easily because without krishna they are snakes without stings. Therefore, let us imprison Sri Krishna" decided Suyodhana. Accordingly, Suyodhana, Dussaasana, Sakuni, Karna, and other kings who have come to fight on their behalf , tried to imprison Sri Krishna. Satyaki has been keenly observing all these developments. He immediately called Kritavarma "Be ready with our army for any eventuality. You wait outside the assembly. I will manage things here" said Satyaki. Satyaki informed Sri Krishna about all these developments and the intention of Suyodhana to imprison him. Satyaki, with the permission of Sri Krishna, told Bheeshma and Drona: "Kouravas are trying to imprison Sri Krishna. It is nothing but tying fire in the upper cloth." said Satyaki. On hearing these words, Vidura told Dhritarashtra: "O King! Your sons are trying to imprison Sri Krishna. They will be reduced to ashes." said Vidura. Sri Krishna addressed the assembly: "With an evil intention in their minds, is it proper on the part of Kouravas to do like this. Kindly give me permission. I will teach them a lesson and then leave this assembly." said Sri Krishna. Dhritarashtra again asked Vidura to bring Suyodhana. Suyodhana returned back and stood near his father "Suyodhana! what is all this ? Are you mad? Why are you trying to imprison Sri Krishna? What a wicked idea it is? Your annihilation is certain. I cannot help it" said Dhritarashtra in a disgusting mood. Beholding Suyodhana, Krishna said: "Suyodhana! You are trying to imprison me thinking that I am alone and helpless. Do you want to know who am I? This is my original form.!" said Krishna. Brahma from forehead, Viroopaaksha (Siva) from chest, Agni from face, Indra, Yama, Varuna, Kubera, Aditya,Marut, Visvedeva, Asvins visible from sides; Balarama, Arjuna appearing at his arms; Yudhishtira, Bheema, Nakula, Sahadeva, Yadu, Vrushni, Bhoja, Andhaka and others warriors emanating from the upper arms; Sankha, Chakra, Mace, knife, Saaranga and other weasons resuming their positions in various hands; and from his eyes and nose and ears and every part of his body, issuing fierce sparks of fire mixed with smoke; and from the pores of his body issued sparks of fire like the rays of the sun Krishna showed his awful, highly wonderful, and extremely varied and auspicious form. None were able to even stare at Sri Krishna.
And
beholding that awful form of the high-souled Kesava, all the kings closed
their eyes with affrighted hearts, except Drona, and Bhishma, and Vidura,
endued with great intelligence, greatly blessed Sanjaya, and the Rishis,
possessed of wealth of asceticism, for the divine Janardana gave them this
divine sight on the occasion.
All the
divine souls, Siddhas, Sadhyas and Vidyadharas from heaven praised Sri
Krishna. On hearing these divine sounds, Dhritarashtra thought that it might
be the auspicious form of Lord Vishnu.
"Vasudeva!
Kindly bless me to see your Visvaroopa"prayed Dhrutarashtra. Krishna
gave him also the divine sight. . Dhritarashtra stared at Sri Krishna "O
Krishna! With the sight with which I have seen your extremely varied and
auspicious form, I cannot again look at this ordinary world. Kindly resume my
blindness." requested Dhritarashtra. Krishna accepted his request. Then
Sri Krishna withdrew that divine and highly wonderful, and extremely varied
and auspicious form.
Followed
by Satyaki and Kritavarma, Sri Krishna left the Kuru Assembly." said
Vaisampayana to Janamejaya, the story of Mahabharata
MAHA BHARAT UDYOGA PARVA
THIRD CHAPTER COMPLETED |
MAHA BHARAT
UDYOGAPARVAMU
FOURTH CHAPTER (IN PART)
UDYOGAPARVAMU
FOURTH CHAPTER (IN PART)
Saint
Vaisampaayana continued to tell Janamejaya, the story of Mahabharata.
After taking leave from all the elders in the Kuru Assembly, Sri Krishna came out of the assembly building. All the elders in the Kuru assembly accompanied him to give send off. At the main gate Daruka was waiting with the chariot. Sri Krishna took leave from all the elders with folded hands and requested them to remain there.
Dhrutarashtra told Sri Krishna "Krishna! You have, , indeed, witnessed all with your own eyes. Nothing now is unknown to you. Seeing my endeavour to bring about peace between the Kurus, and the Pandavas, in fact, knowing the state in which I am, you should not entertain any suspicion regarding me. I have no sinful feelings towards the Pandavas. You know what words have been spoken by me to Suyodhana. The Kauravas and all the kings of the Earth, also know, that I have made every endeavour to bring about peace." said Dhrutarashtra.
Then Sri Krishna told Baahlika, Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa and other elders "'You have yourselves witnessed all that has happened in the assembly of the Kurus, how wicked Duryodhana, like an uneducated wretch, left the court from anger, and how king Dhritarashtra also described himself to be powerless. With the permission of you all, I shall now go back to Yudhishthira and tell him what had happened." said Sri Krishna.
Then he mounted the chariot. Some of the elders also followed his chariot. All of them went to the apartment of Kunti. Krishna told her what had happened in the Kuru assembly and asked her to convey her message, if any, to Pandavas. Then Kunti said thus:
"Kshatriyas should trust their vigour and valour and other ways of living are prohibited for Kshatriyas. Foolish people live as they like in some way or other. Pandavas tried for reconciliation but in vain. Kshatriyas have to live with the prowess of their arms. If Arjuna will not show his vigour and valour in the battle, he will be belittled. How Bhima has accepted for this mediation proposal. Krishna! Pandavas might have follishly thought about mediation. How you have come here at their instance? By God's grace it failed. Krishna! Did Pandavas forget the insult meted out by Droupadi in the Kuru assembly? According to the prevailing Dharma, they might have gone to forests at that time. But now what had happened to them? Are they not free now? If Kouravas refuse to give their due share in the kingdom, Is it not their duty to fight for their due share? Is it not their duty to chastise Kouravas while they are acting against Dharma. Krishna! tell Pandavas in my own words. I am happy here. Let them live as heroes but not as cowards." said Kunti.
Then Krishna requested all the elders who followed him upto the apartment of Kunti to stop. He requested Karna to give him send off upto the outskirts of the city and stretched his hand towards Karna. Karna holding the hand of Krishna boarded his chariot. Karna's chariot followed the chariot of Krishna. Krishna's chariot left Hastinapura.
Then Dhrutarashtra returned back to his assembly and discussed the events that had happened. Bheeshma said:
"O King! have you heard what Kunti said. We are very much astonished on hearing those words. Krishna also supported her. We do not know what will happen!" said Bheeshma. Then Bheeshma and Drona addressed Suyodhana:
"Suyodhana! It is not too late. Immediately proceed to Upaplaavyam and meet your eldler brother Dharmaja. Or meet Sri Krishna on the way and settle the matter amicably. You know we are at the threshold of our last days. At this late age, why you are forcing us to enter war field. We told what all we can tell. Then it is your will and pleasure. We are leaving." So saying Bhishma and Drona left the assembly. Dhrutarashtra also retired to his apartment.
Sri Krishna along with Karna left Hastina pura and travelled for a distance. At a place where there were none, Krishna stopped his chariot and alighted the chariot along with Karna.
"Karna! I know you respect elders. Kindly listen to me carefully. While Kunti was virgin, you were born to her through Sun God, by chanting the Mantra initiated by Saint Doorvasa. Hence you are the son of Kunti and eldest of Pandavas. If Dharmaja knows about this, he will prostrate before you. He will enthrone you. You wil become the King and Emperor of the entire Kuru kingdom. While you are coming on a chariot, Yudhishtira will stand by your side with a vinjaamaram (fan like object). Bheema will hold the umbrella. Arjuna will be your charioteer. Kings of Panchala, Yadava and other kingdoms will accompany you. Abhimanyu and others will be by your side. . You will enjoy royal pleasures like Mahendra and rule the entire Universe. There is one more gift for you. Along with her five husbands, Droupadi will accept you as her sixth husband. It is true" said Krishna secretely only for the ears of Karna.
(In this context it is pertinent to note what has been written in the original texts. Because, everybody will doubt how Sri Krishna, a man of such an eminent stature, will speak in such a manner about Droupadi.
In Sanskrit text written by Vyasa it was written thus:
"shashTE chatvaam tathaa kaalE droupadyupagamishyati".
In Telugu Maha Bharata written by Tikkana it was written thus:
'Paancaala raaja putriyu samchitamuga
ninnu pondu naarava varusan"
After taking leave from all the elders in the Kuru Assembly, Sri Krishna came out of the assembly building. All the elders in the Kuru assembly accompanied him to give send off. At the main gate Daruka was waiting with the chariot. Sri Krishna took leave from all the elders with folded hands and requested them to remain there.
Dhrutarashtra told Sri Krishna "Krishna! You have, , indeed, witnessed all with your own eyes. Nothing now is unknown to you. Seeing my endeavour to bring about peace between the Kurus, and the Pandavas, in fact, knowing the state in which I am, you should not entertain any suspicion regarding me. I have no sinful feelings towards the Pandavas. You know what words have been spoken by me to Suyodhana. The Kauravas and all the kings of the Earth, also know, that I have made every endeavour to bring about peace." said Dhrutarashtra.
Then Sri Krishna told Baahlika, Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa and other elders "'You have yourselves witnessed all that has happened in the assembly of the Kurus, how wicked Duryodhana, like an uneducated wretch, left the court from anger, and how king Dhritarashtra also described himself to be powerless. With the permission of you all, I shall now go back to Yudhishthira and tell him what had happened." said Sri Krishna.
Then he mounted the chariot. Some of the elders also followed his chariot. All of them went to the apartment of Kunti. Krishna told her what had happened in the Kuru assembly and asked her to convey her message, if any, to Pandavas. Then Kunti said thus:
"Kshatriyas should trust their vigour and valour and other ways of living are prohibited for Kshatriyas. Foolish people live as they like in some way or other. Pandavas tried for reconciliation but in vain. Kshatriyas have to live with the prowess of their arms. If Arjuna will not show his vigour and valour in the battle, he will be belittled. How Bhima has accepted for this mediation proposal. Krishna! Pandavas might have follishly thought about mediation. How you have come here at their instance? By God's grace it failed. Krishna! Did Pandavas forget the insult meted out by Droupadi in the Kuru assembly? According to the prevailing Dharma, they might have gone to forests at that time. But now what had happened to them? Are they not free now? If Kouravas refuse to give their due share in the kingdom, Is it not their duty to fight for their due share? Is it not their duty to chastise Kouravas while they are acting against Dharma. Krishna! tell Pandavas in my own words. I am happy here. Let them live as heroes but not as cowards." said Kunti.
Then Krishna requested all the elders who followed him upto the apartment of Kunti to stop. He requested Karna to give him send off upto the outskirts of the city and stretched his hand towards Karna. Karna holding the hand of Krishna boarded his chariot. Karna's chariot followed the chariot of Krishna. Krishna's chariot left Hastinapura.
Then Dhrutarashtra returned back to his assembly and discussed the events that had happened. Bheeshma said:
"O King! have you heard what Kunti said. We are very much astonished on hearing those words. Krishna also supported her. We do not know what will happen!" said Bheeshma. Then Bheeshma and Drona addressed Suyodhana:
"Suyodhana! It is not too late. Immediately proceed to Upaplaavyam and meet your eldler brother Dharmaja. Or meet Sri Krishna on the way and settle the matter amicably. You know we are at the threshold of our last days. At this late age, why you are forcing us to enter war field. We told what all we can tell. Then it is your will and pleasure. We are leaving." So saying Bhishma and Drona left the assembly. Dhrutarashtra also retired to his apartment.
Sri Krishna along with Karna left Hastina pura and travelled for a distance. At a place where there were none, Krishna stopped his chariot and alighted the chariot along with Karna.
"Karna! I know you respect elders. Kindly listen to me carefully. While Kunti was virgin, you were born to her through Sun God, by chanting the Mantra initiated by Saint Doorvasa. Hence you are the son of Kunti and eldest of Pandavas. If Dharmaja knows about this, he will prostrate before you. He will enthrone you. You wil become the King and Emperor of the entire Kuru kingdom. While you are coming on a chariot, Yudhishtira will stand by your side with a vinjaamaram (fan like object). Bheema will hold the umbrella. Arjuna will be your charioteer. Kings of Panchala, Yadava and other kingdoms will accompany you. Abhimanyu and others will be by your side. . You will enjoy royal pleasures like Mahendra and rule the entire Universe. There is one more gift for you. Along with her five husbands, Droupadi will accept you as her sixth husband. It is true" said Krishna secretely only for the ears of Karna.
(In this context it is pertinent to note what has been written in the original texts. Because, everybody will doubt how Sri Krishna, a man of such an eminent stature, will speak in such a manner about Droupadi.
In Sanskrit text written by Vyasa it was written thus:
"shashTE chatvaam tathaa kaalE droupadyupagamishyati".
In Telugu Maha Bharata written by Tikkana it was written thus:
'Paancaala raaja putriyu samchitamuga
ninnu pondu naarava varusan"
Here,
there are two words, "pondu", "varasa".
The meanings of these words are flexible.
There is a famous play in Telugu "Paandavodyogamu" written by Tirupati Venkata kavulu. It was enacted, by eminent artistes, in Andhra Pradesh and many parts of the country and world at large, thousands of times.
In that play, it was written like this.
"ninna sati penDli yaaDu naarava bhartaga soorya nandanaa"
the words "pendli" (marriage), and "bharta" (husband) are heard only in this play and no where else.
The meanings of these words are flexible.
There is a famous play in Telugu "Paandavodyogamu" written by Tirupati Venkata kavulu. It was enacted, by eminent artistes, in Andhra Pradesh and many parts of the country and world at large, thousands of times.
In that play, it was written like this.
"ninna sati penDli yaaDu naarava bhartaga soorya nandanaa"
the words "pendli" (marriage), and "bharta" (husband) are heard only in this play and no where else.
Therefore,
in my view, it may not be the intention of Sri Krishna that Droupadi will marry
Karna as her sixth husband. What he meant might be that Droupadi will be in the
marriageable order (Devar). If we take the meaning of the above words like
this, it will not affect the high stature of Sri Krishna.).
On hearing the words of Sri Krishna patiently, Karna replied thus: "Krishna! I also heard about my birth secret long back. Kunti delivered me while she was virgin and left me in the river mercilessly. One soota brought me up and gave me life along with his sons, equivalently. His wife also showered her love and affection upon me by giving her breast as if I was her own son. As all the rituals, to be performed in Soota community, were performed by Soota and his wife. I also married a Soota girl as my wife. You have just now told that I will always respect elders and act according to Dharma. Therefore, I am bound to discharge my duties as a dutiful son to my Soota father and mother. Forgetting all these things, If I proclaim now, suddenly, that i am a Kshatriya and approach Pandavas, will it be called Dharma and justice? Tell me. I got number of relations, brothers, friends in Soota community. How can I leave them suddenly. Besides all these things, Suyodhana, without considering me as Soota, honoured my vigour and valour, and enthroned me as a King for Anga Kingdom and he is more affectionate towards me than all his 99 brothers. When we are at the threshold of war, how I can leave him mercilessly? Will it be proper on my part? Moreover, Suyodhana is more confident that I am more powerful than Arjuna. How can I betray him? If I join Pandavas and do not fight with Arjuna, the entire world will laugh at me and Arjuna. Does it not amount to insult to Arjuna?
Krishna! you told me what you meant. Kindly keep it in your heart and dont reveal these facts to outside world. If Yudhishtira knows that I am his elder brother, he will refuse to be the King of Kuru Dynasty. In my view, Dharmaja is the proper person to rule the entire earth. Dharmaja is performing Dharma Yajna. All the four brothers are Ritviks.You are their chief. Pandavas will kill Kouravas and burn them in the Sacred fire. We all will be killed in that Dharma Yajna to be performed in kuruskhetra which is a Dharma Kshetra and we will attain higher paths." said Karna.
"Karna! you are not paying heed to my words. You bear grudge and jealousy on Arjuna. Either you will be defeated or killed at the hands of Arjuna. You will never win Arjuna. Pandavas will triumph. You go back to Hastinapura and tell Bheeshma and others to fix a date for war." said Krishna.
"Krishna! what you predict is correct. Hence I refuse to join Pandavas. Along with me, Sakuni and Dussaasana are the root cause for this war. If they also join Pandavas, I will certainly join. As that is not possible, this is also impossible. If I win the war, I will see you back. Otherwise, I will meet you in heaven. Permit me to leave." said Karna and left that place on his chariot. Krishna also left Hastina for Upaplaavyam.
At that time, Vidura went to the apartment of Kunti. "Kunti! War is imminent to destroy the entire Kuru Dynasti. Nobody cared for the words of Krishna. Nobody tried to stop war. We do not know what will happen" said Vidura. Kunti kept quiet. Vidura went back to his apartment.
But Kunti was with a wavering mind. "Is it Dharma to kill ones own kith and kin for the sake of kingdom and royal pleasures? Waging war is nothing but acquiring sorrow. How can it be a pleasure and free from troubles. Karna will always be burning with jealous and anger. If I approach Karna and tell him his birth secret and sow seeds of love and affection in his mind towards Pandavas, what will happen. Will Karna give up war? Any how I should meet Karna." thought Kunti.
Kunti went to Karna while Karna was performing morning rituals on the banks of river Ganges. Karna saw Kunti sitting there at a distance. Karna went near her, told his name and Gotra and introduced himself to Kunti.
"May I know the purpose for which you have come here" asked Karna.
"Karna! you are the son of a Soota. You were not born in Soota community. Prior to my marriage, while I was staying in the house of Kunti Bhoja, God Surya appeared before me and blessed me with a male child. You were born to me. As per the existing Dharma, you are also the son of King Pandu and you are Kshatriya. You need not serve others like Soota. You are the eldest of all. You are the king and emperor of this Kuru Dynasty. Rule the entire universe. You need not remain as Radheya any more." said Kunti.
At that time, an invisible voice came from Lord Surya echoing "It is true."
On hearing all this, Karna said:
"What you said is true. I believe it. Kindly listen to my words also. Since my birth, on account of you, I was denied with all the Kshatriya rituals. Now is it proper for you to say that I am Kshatriya and I am your son. I was born to you through Sun god. But that fact was kept in darkness. How can I bring it to light now? While Arjuna was getting name and fame as a great warrior, if I join them now, people will think that I joined Pandavas having afraid of Arjuna. King Suyodhana enthroned me as King of Anga kingdom. Now, how can I leave him while the war is imminent. I am living at the mercy of Suyodhana. I cannot betray him. If I do so, the entire Kshatriya community will curse me. Therefore, I will fight with Pandavas for the sake of Suyodhana. But one thing is certain. I will never kill Dharmaja, Bheema, Nakula and Sahadeva and I will never leave Arjuna without killing him. Even if I am killed, you will have five sons. Even otherwise, you will have five sons, including me. You will never have six sons." said Karna.
"Karna! Nobody will decide the fate. I will agree for your proposal. You can kill Arjuna but leave the rest." said Kunti and left that place.
Sri Krishna arrived at Upaplaavyam. Yudhishtira and others received Sri Krishna at the outskirts and brought him to their palace. Sri Krishna told Yudhishtira "Suyodhana and others are deaf and blind. They did not heed my words. War is certain. I will narrate in detail what had happened in Kuru assembly, later" so saying Krishna went to his apartment.
On that night, Sri Krishna went to Dharmaja. "Dharmaja! I addressed Dhrutarashtra in a very friendly manner. But Suyodhana paid a deaf ear and heckled me. I need not repeat them as it is of no use. Dhrutarashtra tried his level best to convince his son Suyodhana but in vain. I also addressed the Kuru assembly about King Santana, birth of Dhrutarashtra, expansion of Kuru Kingdom by your father, King Pandu, yours' performing of Rajasooya Yaga, playing of wicked dice game and your exile to forests and your woes in the forests, all in detail. I also said that if your due share in the kingdom is not given, there will be total disaster of Kuru Vamsa. Other elders, sages and saints assembled there, also pleaded for an amicable settlement. Suyodhana left the assembly along with his followers. Dhrutarashtra called for Gandhari. Gandhari also chastised Suyodhana. But Suyodhana never heed her words. I also spoke some harsh words in anger but later remained peaceful. Suyodhana tried to manhandle me. I exhibited some miracles. Yudhishtira, I tried my level best for a peaceful settlement. But all my efforts are of no use. Now the war is certain. You can do as you like" said Sri Krishna.
"You all have heard what Krishna said. Make preparations for war." said Yudhishtira to his brothers.
"Krishna! you know much better than us. Please decide the future course of action. We all abide by your decision" said Dharmaja.
"Yudhishtira! It is not only my word, but the word of your mother Kunti also. She also told me to convey that the immediate task before you is war." said Krishna.
"Not only Sri Krishna but our mother also decided to wage war. Now we need not discuss about Dharma and Adharma. With the words of our mother, Kunti, all our doubts are dispelled. Let us proceed with war" said Arjuna.
"Krishna! we are having seven akshouhini army. Who will head that army, we have to find out. An eminent personality, who is equivalent to Bhishma, should be our Chief of Army. Find out such a personality" said Dharmaja.
On hearing the words of Sri Krishna patiently, Karna replied thus: "Krishna! I also heard about my birth secret long back. Kunti delivered me while she was virgin and left me in the river mercilessly. One soota brought me up and gave me life along with his sons, equivalently. His wife also showered her love and affection upon me by giving her breast as if I was her own son. As all the rituals, to be performed in Soota community, were performed by Soota and his wife. I also married a Soota girl as my wife. You have just now told that I will always respect elders and act according to Dharma. Therefore, I am bound to discharge my duties as a dutiful son to my Soota father and mother. Forgetting all these things, If I proclaim now, suddenly, that i am a Kshatriya and approach Pandavas, will it be called Dharma and justice? Tell me. I got number of relations, brothers, friends in Soota community. How can I leave them suddenly. Besides all these things, Suyodhana, without considering me as Soota, honoured my vigour and valour, and enthroned me as a King for Anga Kingdom and he is more affectionate towards me than all his 99 brothers. When we are at the threshold of war, how I can leave him mercilessly? Will it be proper on my part? Moreover, Suyodhana is more confident that I am more powerful than Arjuna. How can I betray him? If I join Pandavas and do not fight with Arjuna, the entire world will laugh at me and Arjuna. Does it not amount to insult to Arjuna?
Krishna! you told me what you meant. Kindly keep it in your heart and dont reveal these facts to outside world. If Yudhishtira knows that I am his elder brother, he will refuse to be the King of Kuru Dynasty. In my view, Dharmaja is the proper person to rule the entire earth. Dharmaja is performing Dharma Yajna. All the four brothers are Ritviks.You are their chief. Pandavas will kill Kouravas and burn them in the Sacred fire. We all will be killed in that Dharma Yajna to be performed in kuruskhetra which is a Dharma Kshetra and we will attain higher paths." said Karna.
"Karna! you are not paying heed to my words. You bear grudge and jealousy on Arjuna. Either you will be defeated or killed at the hands of Arjuna. You will never win Arjuna. Pandavas will triumph. You go back to Hastinapura and tell Bheeshma and others to fix a date for war." said Krishna.
"Krishna! what you predict is correct. Hence I refuse to join Pandavas. Along with me, Sakuni and Dussaasana are the root cause for this war. If they also join Pandavas, I will certainly join. As that is not possible, this is also impossible. If I win the war, I will see you back. Otherwise, I will meet you in heaven. Permit me to leave." said Karna and left that place on his chariot. Krishna also left Hastina for Upaplaavyam.
At that time, Vidura went to the apartment of Kunti. "Kunti! War is imminent to destroy the entire Kuru Dynasti. Nobody cared for the words of Krishna. Nobody tried to stop war. We do not know what will happen" said Vidura. Kunti kept quiet. Vidura went back to his apartment.
But Kunti was with a wavering mind. "Is it Dharma to kill ones own kith and kin for the sake of kingdom and royal pleasures? Waging war is nothing but acquiring sorrow. How can it be a pleasure and free from troubles. Karna will always be burning with jealous and anger. If I approach Karna and tell him his birth secret and sow seeds of love and affection in his mind towards Pandavas, what will happen. Will Karna give up war? Any how I should meet Karna." thought Kunti.
Kunti went to Karna while Karna was performing morning rituals on the banks of river Ganges. Karna saw Kunti sitting there at a distance. Karna went near her, told his name and Gotra and introduced himself to Kunti.
"May I know the purpose for which you have come here" asked Karna.
"Karna! you are the son of a Soota. You were not born in Soota community. Prior to my marriage, while I was staying in the house of Kunti Bhoja, God Surya appeared before me and blessed me with a male child. You were born to me. As per the existing Dharma, you are also the son of King Pandu and you are Kshatriya. You need not serve others like Soota. You are the eldest of all. You are the king and emperor of this Kuru Dynasty. Rule the entire universe. You need not remain as Radheya any more." said Kunti.
At that time, an invisible voice came from Lord Surya echoing "It is true."
On hearing all this, Karna said:
"What you said is true. I believe it. Kindly listen to my words also. Since my birth, on account of you, I was denied with all the Kshatriya rituals. Now is it proper for you to say that I am Kshatriya and I am your son. I was born to you through Sun god. But that fact was kept in darkness. How can I bring it to light now? While Arjuna was getting name and fame as a great warrior, if I join them now, people will think that I joined Pandavas having afraid of Arjuna. King Suyodhana enthroned me as King of Anga kingdom. Now, how can I leave him while the war is imminent. I am living at the mercy of Suyodhana. I cannot betray him. If I do so, the entire Kshatriya community will curse me. Therefore, I will fight with Pandavas for the sake of Suyodhana. But one thing is certain. I will never kill Dharmaja, Bheema, Nakula and Sahadeva and I will never leave Arjuna without killing him. Even if I am killed, you will have five sons. Even otherwise, you will have five sons, including me. You will never have six sons." said Karna.
"Karna! Nobody will decide the fate. I will agree for your proposal. You can kill Arjuna but leave the rest." said Kunti and left that place.
Sri Krishna arrived at Upaplaavyam. Yudhishtira and others received Sri Krishna at the outskirts and brought him to their palace. Sri Krishna told Yudhishtira "Suyodhana and others are deaf and blind. They did not heed my words. War is certain. I will narrate in detail what had happened in Kuru assembly, later" so saying Krishna went to his apartment.
On that night, Sri Krishna went to Dharmaja. "Dharmaja! I addressed Dhrutarashtra in a very friendly manner. But Suyodhana paid a deaf ear and heckled me. I need not repeat them as it is of no use. Dhrutarashtra tried his level best to convince his son Suyodhana but in vain. I also addressed the Kuru assembly about King Santana, birth of Dhrutarashtra, expansion of Kuru Kingdom by your father, King Pandu, yours' performing of Rajasooya Yaga, playing of wicked dice game and your exile to forests and your woes in the forests, all in detail. I also said that if your due share in the kingdom is not given, there will be total disaster of Kuru Vamsa. Other elders, sages and saints assembled there, also pleaded for an amicable settlement. Suyodhana left the assembly along with his followers. Dhrutarashtra called for Gandhari. Gandhari also chastised Suyodhana. But Suyodhana never heed her words. I also spoke some harsh words in anger but later remained peaceful. Suyodhana tried to manhandle me. I exhibited some miracles. Yudhishtira, I tried my level best for a peaceful settlement. But all my efforts are of no use. Now the war is certain. You can do as you like" said Sri Krishna.
"You all have heard what Krishna said. Make preparations for war." said Yudhishtira to his brothers.
"Krishna! you know much better than us. Please decide the future course of action. We all abide by your decision" said Dharmaja.
"Yudhishtira! It is not only my word, but the word of your mother Kunti also. She also told me to convey that the immediate task before you is war." said Krishna.
"Not only Sri Krishna but our mother also decided to wage war. Now we need not discuss about Dharma and Adharma. With the words of our mother, Kunti, all our doubts are dispelled. Let us proceed with war" said Arjuna.
"Krishna! we are having seven akshouhini army. Who will head that army, we have to find out. An eminent personality, who is equivalent to Bhishma, should be our Chief of Army. Find out such a personality" said Dharmaja.
MAHA BHARAT – UDYOGA PARVA – Chapter 4Part 1
FOURTH CHAPTER (INPART).
FOURTH CHAPTER (INPART).
MAHA BHARAT UDYOGA PARVA
FOURTH CHAPTER COMPLETED.
Beholding
his brothers and Sri Krishna, Dharmaja said: "We got seven akshouhini
strong army.We have to find out a warrior who can command our mighty army. We
have to find out a valiant personality who can attack Bhishma in the war.
Such person must be our CommanDer-in-Chief. Tell me who is that valiant
warrior." asked Dharmaja.
"Brother
Dharmaja! The Matsya King, Virata, is a great warrior with great strength. He
is followed by his brothers, sons and grand sons who are also great warriors.
If he is our Commander-in-Chief, victory is ours" said Sahadeva.
"Brother
Dharmaja! King Drupada, king of panchala, got high vigour and valour, name
and fame and good strength. We can have him as our Commander-in-Chief."
said Nakula.
"In
my view, Dhrushtadhumna, son of King Drupada, will be our Commander-in-chief.
He was born with bow and arrows from the sacred fire, only with the object of
killing Drona. He is a valiant warrior. None else can attack Bhishma in the
war front. Besides that, his brother, Sikhandi, was also born to kill
Bhishma. Viewing from any angle, Dhrushtadyumna will be the best choice tobe
our Commander-in-Chief." said Arjuna.
Then,
Dharmaja addressed Krishna: "OKrishna! you know everything. We are
waiting for your opinion. You also select warriors who can command each
Akshouhini." prayed Dharmaja.
"O
Dharmaja! As spoken to by Arjuna, Dhrushtadyumna will be our
Commander-in-Chief for our Seven Ashouhini strong army. Instal him in that
position in a formal ceremony.
I will
tell the names of the warriors who will be in charge of each Akshouhini. (1)
Pancala King, Drupada, (2) Matsya King, Virata, (3) Yadava King Satyaki (4)
Sahadeva son of Jarasandha (5) Yadava King, Cekitana, (6) Dhrushta Ketu son
of Sisupala (7) Sikhandi, son of King of Drupada, will be incharge of each
Ashouhini army. Instal them as Commanders of each Akshouhini in a formal
ceremony. Now you can formally declare war." said Sri Krishna.
Accordingly,
Dharmaja proclaimed in open assembly "We declare war against Kouravas.
We are at War" said Dharmaja.
Dharmaja formally installed Dhrushtadyumna as Commander-in-Chief and also installed Seven warriors as named by Sri Krishna, as Commanders of each Akshouhini. (One Akshouhini means, 21,870 chariots, equal number of elephants, 65,610 cavalry, 1,09,350 soldiers).
Pandavas
have gone to Droupati and took leave from her for war. They worshipped
Brahmins and got their blessings. Krishna occupied the seat of charioteer of
Arjuna. Arjuna with his Gandeeva boarded the chariot. The flag with Hanuman
emblem (Kapidhwaja) was flying on his chariot. Krishna and Arjuna blew their
respective conches, Panchajanya and Devadatta. The entire army proceeded to
Kurukshetra as if they were proceeding for a marriage function.
Dhrushtadyumna
was proceeding in the forefront, followed by Dharmaja, his brothers, the
Kings and their army. The entire army reached Kurukshetra. On the banks of
River Hiranvati, at a plain place, they erected tents and the entire army
stayed there, awaiting war.
Having
come to know that Pandavas are staying at Kurukshetra, Suyodhana, pretending
innocence, addressed the Kuru assembly thus:
"Krishna
is bearing grudge upon us becsause we did not heed his words. He may provoke
Pandavas to fight against us. Pandavas will certainly wage war. War is
imminent. Therefore, let us also declare war against Pandavas and proceed to
Kurukshetra. Dussaasana! Yourself, Karna and Sakuni should make arrangements
for war." ordered Suyodhana. As per the orders of Suyodhana, Dussasana
declared war against Pandavas.
Next
day, in the open assembly, Suyodhana proclaimed the names of the Commanders
of his Eleven Akshouhini Army. They are Drona, Karna, Asvathaama, Bahlika,
Salya, Kupaacharya, Bhoorisrava, Sakuni, King Kambhoja, and Saindhava.
Accompanied
by the Eleven Commanders, Suyodhana went to Bhishma and said:
"O
My beloved Grand Father, these are the commanders of our Eleven Akshouhini
Army. They belong to different kingdoms with different temperments. Now the
burden is upon your shoulders to command them in the war. Hence I request you
to be the Commander-in-Chief of our entire Army" requested Suyodhana
"Suyodhana!
Kouravas and Pandavas are equal to me. Because I am staying with you, I will
certainly fight for you. I am accepting your request and I will command the
entire army. Only Arjuna can attack me in the war and none else. I will kill
all our enemies except Pandavas because they are my grandsons. I think they
also will not fight against me.
But you
have to decide one thing. Whether I have to fight first or will Karna fight
first . Unless that matter is settled, I wont accept this
responsibility." said Bhishma.
"Suyodhana!
It need not again be discussed here. I already told you that whenever Bhishma
falls down in war, I will enter the war. Even now I will stand by my
word." said Karna.
"Suyodhana!
It will certainly happen. I am accepting your request" said Bhishma.
With
the permission of Drona, Krupa and other eldlers, Suyodhana installed Bhishma
as Commander-in-Chief of the entire eleven akshouhini kuru army. Suyodhana
introduced all the Commanders of each Akshouhini to Bhishma. After taking
permission from his father and mother, Suyodhana along with his entire army
proceeded to Kurukshetra and stayed there.
In this
manner, both Pandavas and Kouravas arrived at Kurukshetra and stayed there
waiting for war.
On
hearing the news of war, Balarama, elder brother of Sri Krishna felt unhappy.
He immediately proceeded to Dharmaja. Dharmaja, his brothers, Sri Krishna
received Balarama with due honors.
"Dharmaja!
I heard that Kouravas and Pandavas have decided to fight with each other and
cause hardship to all the kings on this earth. Is it proper on your part? I
do not like war. I told Sri Krishna to convince both of you and settle the
matter amicably. But he failed to do so. Instead, he proked both of you to
wage war. Suyodhana is an idiot. He does not know how to talk. While dealing
with such persons, Krishna would have used some tact. But Sri Krishna made a
mess of the entire issue by speaking with Suyodhana in an angry mood. Both
Pandavas and Kouravas are equally related to Sri Krishna. But he likes Arjuna
more than all. That is why he made all of you to dance to his tunes. Whatever
it may be, you will win the war. It is certain. I was the teacher for both
Suyodhana and Bhimasena, in the art of fighting with mace. Now they are going
to fight with each other. How can I tolerate this! Hence I am proceeding to
the banks of River Sarasvati to spend the rest of my life in meditation of
God." said Balarama and proceeded to river Sarasvati. Krishna and
Dharmaja gave him warm sendoff.
Krishna
married Rukmini the sister of Rukmi. He was the King of Kundina City. Rukmi
came down to Dharmaja and told Arjuna. "Arjuna! if you are afraid of
war, tell me. I will jump into action. None can beat me in war on the face of
earth." Rukmi boasted himself.
Arjuna
smiled at him and said: "While I was fighting with Gandharvas and
releasing Suyodhana, and also while I was fighting with Kouravas and
recaptured our cows, where were you. We dont want your help. You can help
those who are in need of your help. For the present, Krishna is by my side. I
am not afraid of war. You would have come only on invitation, when I am
afraid of war. Even if I am afraid of war, there are many to help me. We do
not want your help." said Arjuna bluntly.
Unale
to do anything, King Rukmi approached Suyodhana and repeated the same words.
Suyodhana also refused to receive his help. Having been refused by both
sides, Rukmi returned back to Kundina.
In this
manner, except Balarama, brother of Krishna and Rukmi, brother- in- law of Krishna,
all other kings on earth participated in War.
One
day, Dhrutarashtra called Sanjaya to his apartment. "Sanjaya! what is
destined to happen, that will happen. Nothing is in our hands. It is better
for Kshatriya to die in war. You told me that both Pandavas and Kouravas are
staying at Kurukshetra and waiting for war. Now what are the further
developments in Kurushetra. Please tell me." asked Dhrutarashtra.
Sanjaya
spoke thus: "O King! Your son, Suyodhana and his followers, Dussasana,
Karna and Sakuni conspired together and called Ulooka, son of Sakuni and sent
him as an emissary to Dharmaja. While Dharmaja was sitting in the assembly,
Ulooked arrived there and said thus:
"Dharmaja!
Suyodhana told me a few words of his own and asked me repeat them as it is.
If you do not get angry, I will tell those words" said Ulooka.
"Ulookaa! you are at liberty to speak as you like You are safe at my
hands." said Dharmaja.
Ulooka
said thus: These are the words of Suyodhana. "Dharmaja! You spoke too
much with Sanjaya. Taking advantage of the insult meted out by Droupadi and
loss of your kingdom in dice game, you gathered some of your friends and
relatives and waged war against me. Now you cannot escape. You will taste the
sharpness of the arrows of Bheeshma and Drona. Your Arjuna will never survive
in the fight with Bheeshma. You are thinking that Krishna is on your side and
He will save you. It seems Bheema boasted that he will break the chest of
Dussaasana and taste his blood. Let him come. Why late. Bheemasena! you are
like a frog in a well. You do not know the prowess of others. You cannot
escape without receiving our blows. Hey Arjuna! we know that you are having a
bow like a palm tree and Krishna by your side. We are never afraid of you. We
will never part with any part of our kngdom, having afraid of your bow and
Krishna. Let it be. Where were your Gandeeva and Mace while Dussaasana was
dragging Droupadi, holding her tuft, to the open assembly. Have you forgotten
those insults. Dont boast yourself. Having spent shameless days in the Court
of Virata as a cook and impotent, are you still in need of kingdom. Is it
your prowess or yout strengh. Tell me. Your Krishna might have done many
magics and gimmics and you might have boasted yourself, I do not care. Even
if fifty thousand Bhimas and Arjunas fight in the war, we will attack you. We
never part with our kingdom. You better know this fact." said Ulooka as
the words of Suyodhana.
On
hearing these words, Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva were burning with
anger. Krishna stopped them and said:
"Ulookaa!
We have heard all the words of Suyodhana conveyed by you. You also go back to
Suyodhana and convey my words, as it is, to Suyodhana, to the hearing of all
elders in the assembly"
"Suyodhana!
Tomorrow is the war. If you are a warrior, come and die in the war. The
chariot of Arjuna, driven by me, will follow you whereever you go. You cannot
escape us. In your very presence, Bheemasena will break the chest of
Dussasana and swallow his blood. You are boasting as if you got many warriors
on your side. You entered the war, with their help. We will see their prowess
tomorrow. Unnecessarily, you made, Bheeshma, eldest of all, to fight, at this
old age. Your intention is to kill him in the war. Will you win the war
simply because Bheeshma is on your side? Suyodhana! you want to save your
self behind Bheeshma. But the first prey of Arjuna is Bheeshma. Next Drona,
and then Karna will be the targets of Arjuna. Then only the greediness of
Suyodhana will come to an end.
Will
Suyodhana, atleast, repent about his misdeeds, when he beholds the death of
his brothers, sons and relatives in the war, or atleast when he himself rolls
on the earth with the blows of the mace of Bheema on his lap. Therefore,
proceed immediately and ask Suyodhana to be ready for war." said
Krishna.
Ulooka
left that place, went to Suyodhana and conveyed what has been told by
Krishna. Next day, both sides declared war." said Sanjaya to
Dhrutarashtra.
"Sanjaya!
tell me whether Bheeshma can overpower Arjuna. What was the reaction of the
elders in the Kuru assembly, on hearing the words of Ulooka. Tell me"
asked Dhrutarashra.
Sanjaya
told Dhrutarashtra thus:
"On
hearing the words of Ulooka, Bheeshma told Suyodhana: "Suyodhana! dont
fear. I am here. I was never afraid of Gandharvas, Kinneras, or for that
matter, Danavas. After all, Pandavas are nothing before me. I will command
the entire army. Victory is yours." said Bheeshma.
"O
Grand Father! when yourself and our Guru, Drona, are on our side, why should
I fear. Kindly, categorise the warriors on our side." asked Suyodhana.
Then
Bheeshma said thus: "Suyodhana, you are Athi Radha. All your brothers
are Sama Radhas. You know about me. I need not tell. Kritavarma, Salya,
Bhoorishrava are Athi Radhas. Saindhava is Maha Radha. Sudakshina, King of
Kambhoja is Sama Radha. Neela, king of Mahashmati, is Ardha Radha. Vinda and
Anuvinda, kings of Avanthi are Ardha Radhas.The five kings of Trigartha, are
Maha Radhas. Your son Lakshmana is Samaradha. Brihadbala is Sama Radha. King
Dandadhara is Artha Ratha. Your Gurus, Drona Acharya and Kripacharya, both
are best of Maha Radhas. Sakuni is Sama Radha. Asvathaama is Ati Radha, He is
equivalent to Arjuna. We cannot say he is Brahmin. King Bahlika and his son
Somadatta are Athi Radhas. Alambas is Sama Radha. King Bhaga Datta is Sama
Radha. Vriksha, king of Gandhara and Achala are Sama Radhas. Karna is Ardha
Radha. I will give reasons. He lost his Kavacha and Kundala which were
attached to his body while he was born. Half of his strength was lost. Though
he learnt archery skills from veteran Parasurama, he is suffering with a
curse from the said Prasurama. His entire power and strength were smashed by
that curse. He will never remember any Astra learnt by him, whenever it is
necessary. Therefore, he cannot face Arjuna in war." said Bheeshma.
"What
Bheeshma said is correct. I observed Karna many times. He will be first to
flee away from war field. He is always absent minded. Therefore, he is Ardha
Radha" supported Drona.
On
hearing the words of Bheeshma and Drona, Karna grew angry. His face became
red.
"Being
elders, you cannot speak like this, sprinkling hatredness upon me. What would
you gain by belittling me. Gangeya! you spoke much ill about me even in the
Kuru Assembly. Because of Suyodhana, I am tolerating all these things. Now I
will tell. In my considered view, you are Ardha Radha" said Karna.
"Suyodhana, Duddaasana, Sakuni! Listen! can we trust him as our well-wisher. Is it the way to tackle the situation. Not only me, he is belittling all the Kings gathered here. Suyodhana! even in your presence, he is speaking like this. I cannot control myself. After all, he is nothing before me in prowess. Even if we leave him, nothing will happen. He is oldand rotten.. He got partisan attitude towards Pandavas. He cannot fight with Pandavas wholeheartedly. It is better to quit him immediately. Atleast, the other kings will fight peacefully. Suyodhana! He may be your grand father. You may respect him as an elderly person. But dont respect his words. They are dangerous. Suyodhana! if he is our Commander-in-chief, how can other kings fight under his leadership. Suyodhana! again I am reiterating. As long as he is holding his bow, I will never enter war field" said Karna firmly.
"Karna!
What do you mean! Am I old and rotten. About my archery skills and prowess,
better you enquire your Guru, Parasurama. Everybody knows what had happened
to a person who attacked me in war. Arjuna will decide about my old age and
your youthfulness. O Son of Sutha, because of you, I told something about
myself. Now I will tell. Because of your wickedness and adamant attitude,
Suyodhana landed in such deep troubles, leading to this mass massacre. Our
strength is not sufficient to set right these evil events. If you are a real
hero, come on, jump into the war and exhibit your prowess and strength. For
the present, you may escape war, on the pretext of my presence in war, but
even after my fall at the hands of Arjuna, you cannot escape. Then Suyodhana
will certainly know about your vigour and valour. Suyodhana trusted me and
made me Commander-in-Chief. Hence I tolerated your words so far. Better shut
up and get out" said Bheeshma.
"O
my Grand Father! At this critical time, can you get angry upon Karna. Kindly
pardon him for my sake" said Duyodhana.
"Karna!
Now, It is the time for you and Bheeshma to work together shoulder the
responsibility together but not to quarrel with each other. Plese control
yourself" Suyodhana pacified Karna.
"O
my dear Grand Father Bheeshma! kindly tell me about the great warriors on the
side of Pandavas" asked Suyodhana.
"Suyodhana!
If I praise the prowess of the warriors on the side of Pandavas, Karna may
feel bad. I do not know how you feel. Why should I be blamed? It is better
not to talk about it." said Bheeshma.
But
Suyodhana repeatedly asked Bheeshma about this. Unable to refuse his request,
Bheeshma said thus:
"Suyodhana!
Dharmaja is Athi Radha. Bheema is best of all Athi Radhas. Nakula and
Sahadeva are Sama Radhas. I cannot say about Arjuna. There are none on this
earth to match him. Now Krishna is helping him. Arjuna himself can defend his
army and also vanish our enire army.
The
five sons of Droupadi are Maha Radhas. Uttara is equivalent to them.
Abhimanya is the best of all Athi Radhas. He is equivalent to Arjuna. Satyaki
is Athi Radha. Drupada, Virata are Maha Radhas. Sikhandi is Maha Radha. His
brother, Drushtadyumna is Athi Radha. Dhruta Varma, son of Drushta Dyumna is
Ardha Radha. Uttamouja, Yudhaamanyu, Kshatradeva, Jayanta, Amitouja, Virata,
Satyajit are Maha Radhas. The five brothers of Kekaya Kingdom are Maha
Radhas. Kaaseesa, Neela, Sooryadattaa, Madiraaksha, Sankha, are Maharadhas.
Citraayudha, CEkitaanaa, Chandra datta, Vyaaghradattaa, are Maha Radhas, Sena
Bindu, Pandya king are Athi Radhas. Kaasya is Samaradha. Kuntibhoja is Athi
radha. Ghatotkacha, son of Bheema is Athi Radha. However powerful they may
be, I will kill all of them except Sikhandi." said Bheeshma.
Suyodhana
wondered. "O Grand father! what is the reason for not killing Sikhandi.
Is he so powerful?" asked Suyodhana.
"Suyodhana!
there is a strong reason for not killing Sikhandi. I will tell you"
Bheeshma continued to say:
"You
know that for the sake of my father, I renounced my right over the kingdom
and also took a vow to remain unmarried throughout my life. After the death
of my father, Santana, I installed Chitrangada, my younger brother, on the
throne as the King of Kuru Dynasty. Chitrangada was very harsh and cruel. He
picked up quarrels with each and every one. Once he fought with a Gandharva
King and died.
Then
his brother, Vicitra Veerya succeeded to the throne. I made preparations for
his marriage. The King of Kasi got three beautiful daughters. He announced
"Svayamvara" to all his three daughters. By that time, I do not
know that the eldest daughter, Amba, fell in love with King Salva. Even her
father also did not know about her love affair. As usual, I went to
Svayamvara, picked up all the three girls, Amba, Ambika and Ambaalika by
force, and kept them on my chariot, and proceeded to Hastinapura, by
overpowering King of Kasi and other Kings assembled there for Svayamvara.
I
requested King Vichitra Veerya to marry these three girls. At that time,
Amba, the eldest of all, revealed: "O King Bheehsma! I already fell in
love with King Salva. He also loved me. You are a virtuous man. I cannot
marry a person whom I do not like. Kindly send me to King Salva."
requested Amba.
I
realised my mistake and immediately sent Amba to Salva, with due honours,
accompanied by some elders. But King Salva refused to marry Amba, on the
pretext that she was kidnapped by me and stayed with me for some days and
hence she might have lost her virginity.
"King
Salva! Bheeshma did not abduct me with any evil intention. He took me on his
chariot to Hastina only with the honest intention of getting me married to
his brother. When I revealed about us, he immediately sent me here. How can
you blame me? Besides that, my father did not know about our love affair. Had
he known it, he would not have announced Svayamvara to me also. Hence all
this had happened. I am not at fault. Bheeshma also performed the marriage of
Ambika and Ambalika with his brother Vicitra Veerya and sent me here. What is
wrong in this?" requested Amba.
Inspite
of her repeated requests and weepings, King Salva did not accept her. King
Salva drove her away forcibly. Amba grew angry. She decided to take revenge
upon me.
She
went to the forest and found some sages and saints and told them her pitying
story.
"Amba!
This is an affair related to powerful kings. How can we solve it. You are an
young girl. You better go back to your father" told those saints.
"No.
I cannot go back either to my father or to any relative. I will do penance
here only" said Amba.
At that
time, Hotravaasa, a Rajarshi arrived there and heard about Amba. He enquired
the saints about her. The saints informed Hotravaasa what had happened.
"Amba! I am your grand father by distant relation. You are my grand child. Dont worry. I will help you. Parasurama is the Guru of Bheeshma. You better go to Parasurama and seek his refuge. He will certainly help you." said Hotravaasa.
In the
meanwhile, one Akrutavarna, Sishya of Parasurama arrived there. Hotravaasa
enquired Akrutavarna about the whereabouts of Parasurama. Akrutavarna told
them Parasurama will be arriving there next day. All were happy. Next day,
Parasurama arrived there. All the sages and saints including Hotravaasa
received Parasurama with arghyam and padyam. Hotravaasa told Parasurama the
story of Amba.
"Ambaa!
don't worry. I will put an end to all your sorrows. Two people insulted you.
One is Salva. Second is Bheeshma. Whom I have to punish? Tell me." asked
Parasurama.
"O
Great Saint! Salva will never receive me as his wife. There is no use in
punishing him. The root cause for all this calamity is Bheeshma. In fact I
have come here to do penance and kill Bheeshma. I am before you." said
Amba.
Then
Parasurama along with Amba came down to the banks of River Sarasvati and sent
information to me about his arrival. I received my Guru Parasurama at his
place of stay and offered him arghyam and paadyam and comfortable seat.
"Gangeya!
Why you brought this girl by force from her parents. Having brought her, why
you refused her. You immediately perform her marriage with your brother. You
should not leave her as an orphan." said Parasurama.
"O
Guru Parasurama! kindly listen to my words. It is true I brought her from her
parents by force. When she informed me that she was in love with Salva,
immediately I sent her back to Salva. Now, how can I perform her marriage
with my brother." I politely asked my guru.
But he
grew angry. "If you do not receive her and perform her marriage, I will
kill you and your family members and relatives." said Parasurama.
I tried
to pacify him in many ways. But he did not heed my words.
"O
Guru! You are my teacher. I learnt archery skills from you. It is not good on
your part to be angry against me unnecessarily. You are forcing me to act
against Dharma and virtues. Amba fell in love with Salva. How can my brother
marry a girl who fell in love with another.. I prefer to face your wrath
instead of doing Adharma.
One
more word. It was said by elders that if anybody acts with anger, egoism and
against prevailing Dharma, he should be punished, even if he is a Guru."
I told my guru politely.
The
anger of Parasurama knew no bounds. "Gangeya! be ready for war with your
guru" roared Parasurama.
"While
you were destorying the entire Kahstriya community in past, Bheeshma was not
there. Now I am before you. Let us fight." I have given a retart.
Immediately
I went to my mother, Satyavati and got her blessings. In the meanwhile, River
Ganga, in human form, came down there and tried to pacify me and Parasurama
and avert the fight. We both were stubborn. She went away. We both boarded
our chariots. Akrutavarna was his charioteer. I bowed before my guru,
Parasurama. We both started to fight with each other.
When Parasurama showered arrows on me, I cut them in the middle. I broke his bow. He took another bow. His body was drenched with blood and fainted. On seeing my Guru in such a situation, I cursed myself. In the meanwhile, Parsurama regained his senses. He launched a new Astra. I do not know about it. That Astra hit me on my chest and I fell down. My charioteer diverted my chariot to a lonely place. I regained consciousness and again began to fight with Parasurama. It went on for twenty two days.
I
launched the great Astra, Sakti. Parasurama fainted. He gained consciousness
and killed my charioteer and hit me with his arrows. I fell down on my
chariot and lost consciousness.
At that
time, eight Brahmins with whilte clothes came down and treated me. My mother,
Ganga, was driving the chariot. I regained consciousness and bowed before my
mother, Ganga. Handing over reins to me, she went disappeared.
On that
night, those eight Brahmins appeared in my dream and gave me a powerful
Astra, called Mohanaastra. I woke up.
Next
day, when I appeared in the battle field, Parasurama heckled me saying
"Yesterday, You left half dead. Why you have come again? Today I will
finish you". So saying he showered arrows upon me. I broke those arrows
in the middle and I launched Shakti aiming his chest. Parasurama fell
unconscious. His charioteer Akrutavarna drove the chariot out of the battle
field.
After
regaining consciousness, Parasurama launched Brahmaastra upon me. I too
retaliated with the same Brahmaastra. Both the Brahmastras were attacking
each other and causing great havoc in the cosmos.
I tried
to launch Mohanastra on Parasurama. At that time, Saint Narada came running
to me and averted me from launching Mohanastra. The eight brahmins who were
appearing now and then (later I came to know that they are Ashta Vasuvulu, my
brothers) also requested me not to launch Mohanastra. I stopped the launching
of Mohanastra.
Jamadagni,
father of Parasurama and other heavenly bodies appeared before parasurama and
said: "Parasurama! He is not an ordinary human being. He is one of the
Vasuvu. Nobody on earth can conquer him. To kill him, Nara will take birth as
Arjuna. You are a Brahmin. Why you are involved in this unnecessary war and
wasting your power."
They
later came to me and also tried to pacify me. I was so stubborn. I did not
heed their words. My, mother, Ganga also came down to me and requested me to
stop the war against my Guru. At last, they succeeded in stopping the fight
between us. We retrieved our Brahmastras.
The
eight brahmins who appeared in my dream again made their appearance and said:
"Gangeya! Your Guru, Parasurama, is a great saint and also great
warrior. First you go to him and take his blessings."
Narada
and other heavenly bodies went to Parasurama and said "O Bhargava Rama!
Devavrata is your student. Is it proper to fight with him. He has no grudge
against you. Only for the sake of Amba he involved in this fight. Please
excuse him" .
I
immediately went to my Guru parasurama and prostrated before him touching his
feet. He blessed me and hugged me.
"Amba!
I have done what all I can do. Now you can seek your own remedy." said
Parasurama toAmba.
Amba grew angry. "O Saint Parasurama! I never leave Bheeshma. I will do penance and kill Bheeshma, if not in this birth, even in my next birth. I will take revenge against him." So saying, she went away. I went back to Hastinapura.
Some
years have elapsed. One day Saint Narada came to me. I enquired him about
Amba. He told me thus:
"Gangeya!
After leaving us, Amba went to the banks of River Yamuna and did penance with
great devotion.
One day
your mother Ganga went to her and asked her : "O Amba! Being a lady, why
you are doing this penance?"
"To
kill Bheeshma" Amba replied.
Your
mother, Ganga, grew angry. "You will become a river and flow on this
earth" cursed her.
Amba
smiled at your mother. She did not care for the words of your mother, Ganga.
She went to Matsya kingdom and continued her penance even more vigorously.
She
spent half of her power acquired by doing penance and transformed into a
river and flowed in Matsya land. With the remaining power, she retained her
humanbody as it is, and continued her penance.
Lord
Siva appeared before her. Amba prayed Lord Siva a boon to kill Beeshma.
"It
will be done" Siva replied.
"How?"
Amba questioned Siva.
"You
will leave this body and enter the womb of Drupada queesn and take birth as
her daughter. Later you will transform into male in the name of Sikhandi. You
will become a great hero with great prowess. In the war with Bheeshma, you
will kill him." said Sive and disappeared.
Amba
collected some dry branches and leaves and heaped them into a pyre, lit fire,
and jumped into it saying repeatedly "I should kill Bheeshma-- I should
Bheeshma" and consigned herself to flames.
King
Drupada, king of Panchala, was issueless. For some reason or other, King
Drupada bore grudge against Bheeshma. King Drupada did penance with an
intention to kill Bheeshma. Lord Siva appeared before him and asked him
"What do you want?" Drupada prayed for a son who can kill Beeshma.
Lord Shiva blessed him with a daughter who will transform into son in later
years and kill Bheeshma in war. Then Lord Shiva disappeared.
With
the blessings of Lord Shiva, Drupada begot a daughter. But King Drupada and
his wife revelaed to the outside world that a son was born to them. They
brought up their daughter as a son. He was named as Sikhandi. Sikhandi learnt
archery under the guidance of Drona.
Sikhandi
attained marriageable age. King Drupada was very much annoyed as Sikhandi so
far has not attained manliness as per the blessings of Lord Siva. Instead,
Sikhandi attained puberty. They wanted to perform the marriage of Sikhandi
with another female, with the fond hope that Sikhandi will attain manliness.
They strongly believe that the blessings of Lord Shiva will not go in vain.
.King
Drupada fixed the marriage of Sikhandi with the daughter of King Hema Varma,
king of Dasaarna. The marriage was performed. The daughter in law set her
foot in the palace of Sikhandi. She suspected the strange behaviour of
Sikhandi. Atlast, she could come to know that Sikhandi was a woman but not a
man. She pretended innocence as if she does not know anything.
Unable
to keept it as secret, she revealed this to her maid servant. That servant
maid faithfully carried the same to King Dasarna. King Dasarna sent a
mediator to King Drupada to tell him thus:
"King
Drupada! you performed the marriage of your daughter with my daughter,
concealing the fact that your son, Sikhandi, is female.. You cheated us. What
you have gained by this, except insults and insinuations. Our King Hema Varma
is a great warriar and valiant hero. Atleast you fight with him and prove
your manliness." conveyed the mediator.
"What
is this? Who told you that my son is a female. Will it happen like this
anywhere? You tell your king that it is all false and he is mistaken."
said Drupada.
The
mediator went back and told the same to Hema Varma. Hema Varma grew grew. He
proceeded towards Pancala with his armed forces and surrounded it. Sikhandi
could not bear this insult. One mid night he went into a nearby forest for
committing suicide.
In that forest, one Yaksha called Sthoola karna was staying with his men. No body will dare enough to enter that forest, because he never returns back alive. Sthoola Karna understood that Sikhandi entered the forest, not caring for her life.
"O
lady! who are you? Why you entered this forest, not caring even for your
life? " asked Sthoola Karna.
"I
am a lady. My name is Sikhandi. As per the blessings of Lord Siva, I have to
transform into a male. With that hope, I married another lady. Now I want to
prove myself as man. I want manliness. Otherwise, I will die." said
Sikhandi her entire story.
"It
is not at all a problem. I will give my manliness to you but on one
condition. You prove yourself as a man before Hema Varma and your wife. Enjoy
the life as a man for ten days. Then you should return back my manliness and
become a lady." said Sthoola Karna.
Sikhandi
gladly agreed for that. Sikhandi attained manliness and Sthoola Karna
transformed into a lady. Sikhandi went back to his palace and proved himself
as a man before his parents. They also felt happy.
Next day they sent word to Hema Varma. Hema Varma along with his daughter came down to the palace of Drupada and found Sikhandi as a complete man. He apologized Drupada.
Two
days later, Kubera, the Yaksha King visited the place of Sthoola Karna.
Sthoola karna did not come out to receive Kubera but remained inside with
shyness. Kubera forced him to come out. Sthoola Karna, in the form of a lady,
came out and told Kubera what had happened. Kubera realised everything.
"Sthoola
Karna! it is nothing but divine act. You cannot avoid it. You should remain
as a lady throughout your life and Sikhandi will retain your manliness.
" said Kubera.
Sthoola
Karna fell on his feet and prayed for mercy. Kubera blessed him.
"Sthoola Karna, dont worry. Sikhandi will remain as Man throughout his
life. He will kill Bheeshma in war. Soon after the death of Sikhandi, you
will regain your manliness" said Kubera and went away.
On
expiry of ten days, Sikhandi came down to Sthoola Karna and offered back his
manliness.
"Sikhandi!
you are fortunate. Retain my manliness throughout your life. It is a God's
gift to you." said Sthoola Karna.
The joy
of Sikhandi knew no bounds. He returned back to his city, and informed his
parents what had happened. He perfomed many Pojaas and Vratas and worshipped
Brahmins, deities and his Gurus. Later Drona gave Sikhandi many Astras and
Sastras and made a great hero in archery."
In this
manner I came to know about the entire story of Amba and Sikhandi through
Saint Narada. Therefore, Suyodhana, Amba, daughter of King Kasi, took birth
as Sikhandi with the avowed object of killing me in war.
But I
got my own principles. I will never fight with ladies, or persons with the
names of ladies or a person who was born as a lady and later transformed into
a male. I will abide by my principles under any circumstances, even at the
risk of my life." said Bheeshma to Suyodhana.
Suyodhana
was very much pleased in his mind with the manliness and principles of his
grandfather, Bheeshma.
"O My dear Grand Father! can I ask you how many days it will take for you to destroy the entire army of Pandavas? Similarly, within which time Drona, Krupa Asvathama and Karna will conquer the enemy " asked Suyodhana.
"Suyodhana!
you are trying to assess our strength, ability and prowess. It is good. As
far as I am concerned, I will kill one thousand Radhikas per day. Till I fall
down on earth with the arrows of Arjuna, I will fight. I got the capacity of
killing ten thousand warriors per day. Therefore, I can kill the entire Seven
Akshouhini army within one month. You ask others about their capacity."
said Bheeshma.
Then
Suyodhana turned to Drona and others and asked them about their capacity to
kill the army of the enemy.
"O
King Suyodhana! I am an aged person. I will also take one month to kill the
entire Pandava Army" said Drona.
Krupacharya
said that he will take two months. Asvathaama with greatest pride said that
he can kill the entire Pandava army within one month. Karna boasted himself
that he can kill the Seven Akshouhini army within five days.
Bheesham laughed at him. "O son of Soota! Better talk less and act more. You will not stop boasting yourself until you hear the thundering sound of Gandeeva of Arjuna." said Bheeshma.
In the
camp of Pandavas, Dharmaja also was assessing the fighting capacity of each
and every warrior. In the meanwhile he received the entire information from
the camp of Suyodhana, through his spies.
"Arjuna!
just now I received valuable information from the camp of Kouravas. Bheeshma
said that he will kill our entire army within one month. Similarly Drona said
that he will do it within one month and Krupacharya within two months,
Asvathaama in ten days and Karna in five days. Tell me in how many days you
can kill the entire eleven Akshouhini kourava army? What is your capacity?"
asked Dharmaja.
Arjuna
smiled and said: "Brother Dharmaja! Bheeshma and Drona are great
warriors, Maha Radhas. Nothing wrong in their telling like that. Words are
different from deeds. You know my vigor and valour. I can tell that I can
smash the entire Kuru army in a minute with the help of Sri Krishna. I fought
with Lord Siva and got Pasupatha Astra. Either Bheeshma, or Drona, Karna and
Asvathaama, does not know about its power. It will destroy the entire earth
in no time. Not even a single being will remain alive. But I will never use
it. I cannot belittle my prowess.
I will
get name and fame if I fight with my own strength and prowess. You need not
worry about it. On our side, Bheema, Nakula, Sahadeva, Abhimanyu, sons of
Droupadi, Satyaki, Virata, Drupada, Dhrushtadyumna, Sikhandi, Uttamouja,
Yudhaamanyu, Ghatotkacha, and other Athi Radhas and Maha Radhas are there.
You do
not know how powerful you are. If you get angry, you can smash the entire
Kuru army in no time. Therefore, victory is ours. You need not worry."
said Arjuna.
In this
manner, Sanjaya told Dhrutarashtra about the preparations for war.
Saint
Vaisampaayana continued to tell the story of Maha Bharata to Janamejaya.
MAHA
BHARATA,
Udyoga Parva, Fourth chapter completed. With this Fourth chapter, Udyoga Parva is completed. On completion of Udyoga Parva, Adi Pancakam (first five chapters in Maha Bharata) is completed. Om Tatsat Om Tatsat Om Tatsat. (With the choicest blessings of Lord Venkateswara, God the Almighty, and also with the kind benevolence of Sri K.V.Raghava Rao Garu and Sri M.Vishnu Prasad Garu, and with all your blessings,
I could
complete Adi Panchakam
(i.e., Adi, Sabha, Aranya, Virata,Udyoga Parvas) in Maha Bharata. I commenced this task at my 65th year. I pray God the Almighty to give me strength to complete this task successfully. M.V.Subrahmanyam, Hyderabad.)
We have
so far read in Maha Bharata, many stories relating to several kings. Those
kings belong to TwoVamsas. They are Soorya Vamsa and ChandraVamsa. Some of us
do not know the origin of these twoVamsas. Let is examine the geneological
tree of these twoVamsas.
Soorya
Vamsa.
Sree Maha Vishnu Brahma Mareechi Kasyapa, his wife-- Aditi. Soorya (Sun), his wife-- Sanjna. Vaivasvsvata Manuvu, his wife-- Sraddha. Ikshvaaku Ilaa(lady) Saryaati Subhaaga (later transformed (grandson) into Sudyumna) Grand son son Chyavana. Kaakutsa Ambareesha. Kaakutsa's 16th descendant Maandhaatha. Maandhaatha wife Bindumati He got three sons and 50 daughters Elder son Purukutsu Purukutsu's 7th descendant Trishanka Trishanka's son Harischandra Harischandra's 8th descendant Sagara Sagara's grand son Amsumanta Amsumanta's grand son Bhageeratha Bhageeratha's 5th descendant Rutuparna Rutuparna's 6th descendant Khatvanga. Khatvanga's grand son King Raghu. King Raghu's grand son King Dasaradha King Dasaradha's four sons are SriRama, Lakshmana, Bharata, Satrughna. Sri Rama's sons, Lava and Kusa. Lakshmana's sons Angada, Chandra keta. Bharata's sons Daksha,Pushkala Satrughna's sons Subaahu, Srutasena.
Because
all the above kings descended from the origin,Soorya (Sun), it is called
Soorya Vamsa. As far as we know, in Soorya Vamsa, the last king in Tretayuga,
was Sreerama Chandra. Later,in Dvaapara Yuga, there were Pandavas,Kouravas,
Sri Krishna etc. Kings. They belong to Chandra Vamsa Kings. Let us examine
the geneological tree of Chandra Vamsa Kings.
CHANDRA
VAMSA.
Sree Maha Vishnu Brahma Atri Chandra--Taara Budha—Ila (lady) Emperor Puroorava Puroorava's 12th descendant Gaadhi. His son Visvaamatra. Puroorava's son --Aayuvu Aayuvu's son --Nahusha
Nahusha'
son – Yayaati.
Yayati's wife Devayani. Yayati servant maid Sharmishta. Yayati got two sons through Devayani, Yadu, Turvasa. Yayati got three sons through Sharmishta Druhya, Anuvu, Poora. Yadu's 44th descendant AAhuka Yadu's 10th descendant was Krutaveerya. His son was Kaarveeryaarjuna. Poora's 14th descendant Dushyanta. AAhuka got two sons—First son was Devaka Aahuka's second son was Ugrasena Dushyanta married Sakuntala. Their son Bharata. Devaka's daugher married Vasudeva. Ugrasena's son was Kamsa. Bharata's 5th descendant Ranti Deva. The 44th descendant of Yadu was Saatvata. Bharatha's grand son Brihatkshatra. Saatvata's 12th descendant was Soorasena. Soorasena got 10 sons and five daughters. Soorasena got five daughters. They are-- Brihatkshatra's grand son Hasti. In his name Hastinapuram was built Soorasena's elder son was Vasudeva. He married Devaki, daughter of Devaka. He also married Rohini. (1)Prudha married King Pandu. Their sons are Pandavas. Hasti's son Ajaameedha The son of Devaki and Vasudeva was Sri Krishna and daughter, Subhadra. (2)Srutadeva married Vruddha Sarma. Their son was Dantavaktra. Ajaameedha's grand son Samvarana The sons of Vasudeva and Rohinni were Balarama, Gadha and Sarana.. (3)Srutakeerti married Drushtaketu. Their sons were Pratyardhana and others. Samvarana's son Kuru. In his name Kuru Vamsa started. Kurukshetra was named after him. (4)Srutasravasa married Damaghosha and their son was Sisupala. Kuru's 13th descendant Santana (5)Raajaadhi Devi married Jayasena.Their sons are Vin and Anuvinda Santana's son through Ganga was Devavrata (Bheeshma) Santana's sons through Satyavati were Chitrangada, Vichitraveerya. Vichitraveerya"s sons are Dhrutarashtra and King Pandu Dhrutarashtra got 100 sons, Suyodhana etc and one daughter Dussala. King Pandu got five sons, Dharmaraja, Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva. Arjuna's son Abhimanyu Abhimanyu's son Pareekshat Pareekshat's son Janamejaya to whom Maha Bharata was narrated by Saint Vaisampaayana. All the above kings belong to Chandra Vamsa.
The
descendants of Yadu are called Yadus or Yadavas.
The
descendants of Kuru are called Kouravas.
As seen
above, King Soonasena's eldest son was Vasudeva and eldest daughter was
Prudha.
Soorasena
gave his eldest daughter Prudha to his friend, King Kunti Bhoja as gift.
Prudha was brougut up by Kuntibhoja. Hence she was called Kunti.
As
Prudha was the sister of Vasudeva, Sri Krishna calls her as "paternal
aunt" (atta).
Sruthasravasa
was the sister of Prudha (Kunti). Her son was Sisupaala. Hence Sisupala was
the paternal aunt's son of Sri Krishna.
This is
the geneogolical tree of the Kings of Soorya Vamsa and Chandra Vamsa.
The
story of Maha Bharata was narrated by Saint Vaisampaayana to King Janamejaya.
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