BOOK6 BHEESHMA PARVA MV SUBRAMANYUM

BOOK6 BHEESHMA PARVA

MAHA BHARAT BHEESHMA PARVAMU PRADHAMAASVAASAMU "O Vaisampaayana, "how did those heroes, the Kurus, the Pandavas, and the high-souled kings assembled together from various countries, fight?" asked Janamejaya. Saint Vaisampaayana continued to say: "Entering Kurukshetra, the Pandavas and Kouravas, along with their respective armies, endued with great might, desirous of victory, were advancing against each other. The whole earth seemed then to be empty, divested of horses and men, destitute of chariots and elephants, and with only the children, ladies and the old left at home. At that time Dhritarashtra, summoned Sanjaya. Both were discussing about the impending war. At that time, the holy VedaVyasa, the son of Satyavati, conversant with the past, the present, and the future, and beholding everything as if it were present before his eyes, arrived there. Dhritarashtra received him with due honours. "O king Dhritarashtra, your sons and the other monarchs have their hour arrived. Mustered in battle they will kill one another. Their hour having come, they will all perish. Bearing in mind the changes brought on by time, do not yield your heart to grief. If you wish to see them fighting in battle, I will, bless you with divine vision. Behold the battle." said Veda Vyasa. Dhritarashtra said "O Saint Veda Vyasa, I like not to behold the slaughter of my kith and kin. I shall, however, through your potency hear of this battle minutely." " Sanjaya will describe the battle to you. Nothing in the whole battle will be beyond his eyes. Endued, with celestial vision, Sanjaya will narrate the battle to you. He will have knowledge of everything. Manifest or concealed, by day or by night, even that which is thought of in the mind, Sanjaya shall know everything. Weapons or arrows will not hit him or cut him. Sanjaya will come out of the battle with life safely. Sanjaya you are blessed with divine vision. You describe the entire battle to Dhritarashtra." said Vyasa. "O King Dhritarashtra! this war is meant only to decrease the weight of earth. You need not worry about this. Do not grieve. This is destiny, It is not capable of being prevented. As regards victory, it is there where righteousness is. even now it is not too late. Let the Pandavas have their kingdom, and let the Kauravas have peace." said saint Vyasa. "I know you are telling all these things in my own interest. But what todo. My sons are not obedient to me. They will never heed my words. I told them many a time about this. I even chastised them. But I am in vain. I am helpless" said Dhritarashtra. Then Saint Vyasa went away. Then King Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya: "O Sanjaya! Several kings in the ancient past fought for the sake of this earth and perished. Is this earth so sweet and dear to all the Kings? Kindly tell me the attributes of this earth and its nature and qualities." asked Dhritarasthra. Sanjaya continued to say: "O King, I will tell you the attributes of earth according to my knowledge. Behold them with the eye of your wisdom. Creatures on this earth are of two kinds, moving or non-moving. They are taking birth and meeting their death. For all these moving or non moving beings, the earth is the abode. The Earth is the stay and refuge of all creatures, and the Earth is eternal. There are five elements. Those elements, are space, air, fire, water, and earth. Their respective attributes are sound, touch, vision, taste, and scent. The attribute of space is sound. The attributes of air are sound and touch. The attributes of fire are sound, touch and vision. The attributes of water are sound, touch, vision and taste. The attributes of earth are sound, touch, vision, taste and scent. Therefore earth is foremost of all the elements. To the south of Mount Meru, there is a place called Sudarsanam. In that place, there was a Jambu tree extending about 2,500 yojanas. It is a fruit bearing tree. The fruits of that tree were continously falling on earth and crushed. The juices of those fruits flow like a stream around that mountain and enter Northern Kuru plains, and enter the sea. That stream was called as Jambu river. Wherever the fruit juices of that tree touch, it will transform into gold. Hence gold is called Jaambunada. Anybody consumes the water of that river shall be ceased of old age, diseases, hunger and thirst. In the name of that Jambu tree, that island was called Jambu Island. This island is bounded on east and west by seas. In this island, you can see mountains viz., Himachal, Hemakoota, Nishadha, Neela, Svetha, Srungavanta. In between Nishadha and Neela mountains, Mount Meru is situated. Its length if 84,000 yojanas. It is protruded into earth to the extent of 16,000 yojanas. This Meru Mountain is the common abode of divine bodies, devine saints, Gandharvas, Kimpurushas, Devendra, Dikpaalakas, Lord Brahma etc. To the north of Meru, there is Karnika Vana. This Karnika Vana is the resort of Lord Siva, along with his wife, Gouri. All the delightful kingdoms in this Jambu island, are divided into nine parts. They are called Varshas. (1) The land between Northern sea and Srungavanta mountain is called Airaavasa Varsha. (2) The land between Mountains Svetha and Srungavanta is called Hairanmaya Varsha. (3) The northern part of Neela mountains is called Ramanaka Varsha. (4) The southern part of Neela mountain is called Nilaakruta Varsha. (5) The eastern part of Meru Mountain is called Bhadraasva Varsha. (6) The western part of Meru mountain is called Ketu Mala Varsha. (7) The northern part of Meru Mountain is called Hari Varsha. The surrounding parts of Himachala Mountain are called (8) Kimpurusha Varsha and (9) Bharata Varsha. The island, Jambu Dweepa, is extending upto an area of 80,600 yojanas. There is a salt sea double the extent of Jambu Dweepa. Likewise, Ikshu rasa sea, Sura sea, Ghruta sea, Dadhi sea, Ksheera sea, pure water sea are extending double the extent of the other. There are six islands called Laksh Dweep, Saalmala Dweep, Krouncha Dweep, Kusa Dweep, Saaka Dweep, and Pushkara Dweep. In these islands, there are many mountains, rivers, kingdoms. Srimannaarayana, who creates, sustains and destroys the entire earth had a resort in Vaikunta, beyond Ksheera Sagara." said Sanjaya. "Sanjaya! for the sake of this Bharata Varsha, both my sons and Pandavas are fighting with each other? Will there be any greedy and covetous people on earth besides these?" asked Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra, the sons of Pandu are not at all greedy or covetous about this earth. On the other hand, it is Duryodhana and Sakuni, that are covetous, as also many other Kshatriyas, who are rulers of the provinces, who being covetous of this country, are not able to bear one another. In the ancient past also, many kings fought for this land and met their death. But there were also kings like Bhageeratha, Yayati, Raghvu and Nahusha who performed many Yajnas and Yagas and acquired name and fame. In this Bharta Varsha, there are seven mountains called, Malaya, Suktimanta, Vindhya, Pariyatra, Mahendra, Rukshavanta, and Sahyadri. There are several mines and minerals in these mountains viz., diamonds, precious stones and metals like iron, copper, alluminium, silver and gold etc. There are many rivers flowing in Bharata varsha. They are River Ganga, Tungabhadra, Vetravati, Vedavati, Krishnaveni, Penna, Yamuna, Tamasa, Saaraavati, Kaveri, Godavari, Narmada, Bahuda, Sarayu, Satadruvu, Vitastha, Vipaasa, Taamraparni. With the holy waters flowing in these rivers, the entire Bhartha Varsha has become fertile and yielding plenty of crops in abundance. There are several kingdoms flourished in Bharatavarsha. Some of them are---Paanchaala, Paandya, Barbara, Vatsa, Matsya, Magadha, Malayala, Kalinga, Kulinga, Kuru, Konkana, Tenkana, Trigarta, Saamudra, Saalva, Soorasena, Sudheshna, Suhma, KarooSa, Kaasa, Kosala, Yavana, Yugandhara, Andhra, Sindhu, Chedhi, Chola, Pulinda, Pundraka, Pandya, Abheera, Souveera, Sourashtra, Maharashtra, Videha, Vidarbha, Dravida, DasaarNa, karnaata, Goula, Anga, Vanga, MaraaTa, Laata, Baahlika, Bahudaana, Kiraata, Kekaya, Asmantaka, Kashmira, Gandhara, Kambhoja, Malava, Nepala, Ghoornara, Kuntala, Avanti etc. The people living in these kingdoms were enriched with great wealth. Therefore, this earth is nothing but Kamadhenu for all the living beings on this earth. Inspite of possessing such an enormous wealth, minerals, fertile lands etc. on this earth, still the Kings have been fighting with each other for supremacy. Fathers, Sons, brothers have been fighting and killing each other for the sake of this land with greediness. Therefore there is nothing strange in Kouravas and Pandavas fighting with each other for the sake of this earth." said Sanjaya. After hearing the great attributes of earth, Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to go to the battle field and find out what was happening in the battle field. As per the directions of the King Dhritarashtra Sanjaya proceeded to Kurukshetra. After some days, Sanjaya returned back to King Dhritarashtra and fell on his feet and began to weep saying that the Great Hero, Bhishma, was defeated by Sikhandi on the tenth day of war and he was laying on Ampa Sayya (bed of arrows). Sanjaya could not control his grief. "O King Dhritarashtra, the foremost of all the warriors, was defeated by Sikhandi. The great warrior who defeated Parasurama was defeated by Sikhandi. Relying on whose strength, your son defeated Pandavas wickedly in Dice game, that Bhishma was defeated brutally in the game of war. Bheeshma, scattering arrows in thousands with the utmost composure, daily killing ten thousand warriors, for ten days, is now taking rest on bed of arrows." said Sanjaya in grief. On hering these words of Sanjaya, Dhritarashtra could not control himself. "Sanjaya! How has Bhishma,was defeated by Sikhandi? It is nothing but wonder. How did my father, who resembled Vasava himself, fall down from his chariot? What became of my sons, O Sanjaya, when they were deprived of the mighty Bhishma who was like a celestial, and who led life of Brahmacarya for the sake of his father? I believed that his virtues, his trustwortiness, his prowess, his vigour, his valour and his truthfulness were indestructibe. What can I do now, Sanjaya, what can I do? Sanjaya! tell me! while Sikhandi was showering arrows on Bheeshma, why none could come to his rescue. What had hapened to our eleven Akshouhini strong army? Cannot they attack one Sikhandi? Did Drona, krupa, Asvathaama and Salya flee away from war? While Sikhandi was attacking Bheeshma, what had happened to my sons? Did they hide themselves in forests like cowards? It is strange how God also is helping Pandavas who killed Bhishma for the sake of this earth. Sanjaya! tell me in detail what had happened during these ten days of war. Who fought with whom? How Bhishma fought with Pandavas during these ten days? While advancing against the enemy troops, who followed Bhishma and who proceeded ahead? Who stayed by his side? Who proceeded with him? What brave combatants followed behind Bheeshma? Tell me in detail" asked Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya continued to say the details of Ten days Kurukshetra war. He prayed Vedavyasa in his mind and began to tell. "After taking leave from you, I proceeded to Kurukshetra. Your son, surrounded by all the warriors was discussing with them about war. I stood by the side of a pillar and was hearing everything in detail. Suyodhana told Dussaasana. "Dussaasana! We have been waiting for an opportunity to kill Pandavas in war. Our desire is going to be accomplished. Our Chief of Army is Bheeshma. We have to protect him at any cost. He is the only warrior who can vanish the entire Pandava Army. None will survive in a combat with Bheeshma except Sikhandi. So we have to see that Sikhandi shall not appear before Bheeshma." said Suyodhana. Then the war began. With the blare of conches and the sound of drums that resembled leonine roars, with the neigh of horses, and the clatter of chariot-wheels, with the noise of elephants and the shouts, clapping of arm-pits, and cries of roaring combatants, the din caused everywhere was very great. Bheeshma with golden palm tree on his flag, Drona with golden stage on his flag, Krupacharya with golden cow on his flag, Asvathaama with golden lion with tail on his flag, and other kings and warriors with their respective flags flying on their chariots, were proceeding for war. Krutavarma, Jayadhradha, Bhagadatta, with their respective armies, Sakuni with his brothers and sons, Somadatta, Bhoorisrava, Baahlima, with their respective armies assembled in the war field. Sudakshina, king of Kambhoja, Bruhadbala, king of Kosala, Neela, king of Mahishmati, Susarma, king of Trigarta, Alambasa, king of Rakshasas, Saalva, Souveera, Soorasena, Yavana kings with their respective armies took positions on the war field. The above army consists of Ten thousand Akshouhinis. Your son, Suyodhana, with a serpant symbol on his flag, followed by the eleventh akshouhini army, was proceeding on a well decorated elephant. Dussaasana, Durmarshana, Vivimsati, Vikarna and other brothers accompanied him. The entire eleven akshouhini army reached the war field. Bhishma addressed the chief warriors in the army. "O great warriors! Listen to me. At the time of war, the doors of heaven will remain open always. Hither to several warriors, fought and killed in war, proceeded through those doors to heaven. You all must be ready to walk through those doors to heaven. It is a sin for a Kshatriya to remain at home and die with diseases and old age. It is a great boon for a Kshatriya warrior to die in war like a hero." said Bheeshma in a loud voice. On hearing these words, all the warriors roared like lions "We are with you. We will fight either for victory or for heaven." and get themselves ready for war. Then Bheeshma looked at Suyodhana and said: "Suyodhana! Can I take it for granted that Karna will never enter the war field with his sons and army till I lay down." Suyodhana confirmed that Karna will stand by his word and will never enter war. He asked Bheeshma to plan for a Vyooha. Bheeshma arrayed the forces in the following manner. Bheeshma and Drona stood with their army facing westwards. On one side, Krupacharya, Asvathaama, and on the other side Kritavarma and Salya stood with their respective armies. On the back side stood Bahlika, Somadatta, Bhoorisrava, with their armies. In the centre, Suyodhana stood. Susarma and others stood in front of Suyodhana. In this manner, Bheeshma arrayed a vyooha. Pandavas, with their seven akshouhini army, also entered the war field. In the fore front, Yudhishtira was proceeding on his chariot. On either side of Yudhishtira, Bheema and Arjuna were proceeding on their resective chariots. Sri Krishna was driving the chariot of Arjuna. Kapidhvaja was flying on the chariot of Arjuna. Nakula and Sahadeva accompanied Dhritarashtra. The sons of Droupadi, Prativindhya, Srutasoma, Srutakeerti, Sataneeka and Srutasena, and Soubhadra (Abhimanyu) entered the war field with their respective forces. Drupada, king of Panchala proceeded with his elephant forces. Virata, the Matsya King, yadava King Satyaki, Chekitana, Sikhandi, also entered the war field. Sahadeva, the Magadha King, Dhrushtaketu along with his brother, Ghatotkacha, son of Bheema, accompanied by his Rakshasa army, Kings of Pandya, Kekaya, Saibya, and other kings also entered the war field with their resepctive armed forces. In this manner, seven akshouhini army of Pandavas reached Samanta Pancakam. In the forefront of the army, stood, Dhrushtadyumna, the Chief of Army. Yudhishtira, surrounded by the kings of Panchala, Matsya, facing eastwards, addressed the Chiefs of Seven Akshouhinis. "O Great Warriors! If we win the war, we will grab the entire earth. Otherwise, we will attain heavenly pleasures. We must be ready for anything and everything" said Yudhishtira. All the warriors acclaimed the heroic words of Yudhishtira and blew their respective conches." said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. "O Sanjaya! "Beholding our eleven akhouhini army arrayed in order of battle, how did Yudhishthira, make his counter-array with his forces smaller in number?"asked Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya said thus: Looking at his forces of seven akshouhinis, Dharmaja asked Arjuna: "Arjuna! Our forces appear to be smaller than Kouravas. Is it not?" said Yudhishtira. "Brother Yudhishtira! once Saint Narada told me in the presence of Bheeshma and Drona thus: Even the mighty army of wicked and covetous will never win the army of virtuous, though smaller in number . Besides that, who will dare to restrain Bheema, endued with great energy, wielding his mace. Who can conquer our great warriors, Dhrushta-dhyumna and Sikhandi, and other Panchala Kings? You know pretty well about the prowess of Virata and other Matsya kings. There are Yadava Kings like Satyaki, Chemitana and others who are fighting on our behalf. Have you forgotten our youth warriors Abhimanyu and Ghatotkacha. Above all your virtues, your righteousness and the blessings of Lord Srikrishna will always protect us. You do not know about you. You are capable of conquering even the celestial bodies. If you get angry,who will stand before you. Therefore, you need not worry about our army, smaller in number." said Arjuna. "Arjuna! I am very much aroused with your heroic words. You tell Dhrushtadhyumna to plan for a Vyuha equivalent to Kouravas. Arjuna told Dhrushtadyumna about the wish of Dharmaja. Then Dhrushtadhyumna arrayed the Troups in the following manner: Bheema, along with Abhimanyu, Upa Pandavas, Nakula and Sahadeva stood at the forefront. Chekitana, Satyaki, stood on the northern side and Matsya Kings, Panchala Kings, along with their forces stood on southern side. In the middle, Dharmaja stood mounting on his royal elephant. Arjuna was protecting Dharmaja. Sikhandi will always face Bheeshma. On the rear end stood Sahadeva, king of Magadha, Dhrushtaketu and others. Foot soldiers, by many hundreds of thousands and armed with swords, spears proceeded ahead. Except infants and old, every male took part in the war. Everybody is desirous of victory." said Sanjaya to King Dhrutarashtra. "Sanjaya! tell me whose force is mightier than the other."asked Dhritarashtra. "O King! Each side is thinking that their force is mightier. Your son also is thinking that his forces are mightiest. In my opinion, the Pandava army, though smaller in number, is mightiest of all, as Krisha is on their side and Victory is always inherent to Sri Krishna. Then Krishna and Arjuna blew their conches Pancajanya and Devadatta. On hearing the terrible sound of conches, the Pandava army was aroused. The Kourava army also were beating drums, and blowing cow-horns conches and the uproar made was very loud. At this juncture, Ddharmaja kept aside his bow and arrows, put off his coat of mail, descended his chariot, proceeded on foot, with folded hands, towards the chariot of Bheeshma. Beholding this, Pandavas, Krishna, Satyaki and other near and dear of Pandavas were very much annoyed. They also alighted their chariots and followed Dharmaja. "What is this? Abandoning your brothers, you are proceeding on foot towards enemies. Where will you go, having removed your coat and keeping aside your bow and arrows, leaving all of us? When we are about to fight with our hostile troops, if you go like this, with whom we are to fight?" In this manner,Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva were asking Dharmaja. Without speaking a single word, Dharmaja was proceeding towards Bheeshma and Drona. "His Object is known to me. Having paid his respects to all his elders viz., Bhishma, Drona, Kripa and Salya, and seek their blessings, he will fight. He who fights after paying respects to elders, is sure to obtain victory in the battle" said Krishna. On hearing these words of Krishna, every body stopped there. Krishna, Arjuna, Bheema, Nakula and Sahadeva only accompanied Dharmaja. Dharmaja went near the chariot of Bheeshma. The mighty warriors in the Kourava army were looking at Dharmaja. "Why does Dharmaja come here with fear? He could never have been born in Kshatriya community since he is weak and filled with fear. What will this King say? What will Bhishma say in reply? What will happen?" All were talking among temselves with great curiosity. Dharmaja went near Bheeshma and bowed before him. "O mybeloved Grand Father, Beeshma! I am very much annoyed to fight against you. I wish to meet you and take your blessings before entering the battle. Kindly permit me to fight against you." asked Dharmaja. "O Dharmaja! You have done a good thing. Had you not come to us for blessings, I would have cursed you. Do battle and obtain victory. What else you want? Which you desire to have from us? except fighting on your behalf." asked Bheeshma. "O my grand father, you fight on behalf of Suyodhana. But kindly do some favour to me" said Dharmaja. "Tell me what is passing on in your mind" asked Bheeshma. "O Grand father! How can we defeat you in battle. Tell me." asked Dharmaja. "Even the celestials themselves cannot defeat me in battle. I do not see any person who can vanquish me in battle?" "That is the reason why I am asking?" said Dharmaja. "As long as I am holding bow and arrows in my hand, none can defeat me. This much I can say now. It is not the time now to tell anything more. I will fulfill your desire when you meet me later. You can go now. God bless you" said Bheeshma. "Please permit me to meet you again. I take leave". So saying Dharmaja proceeded towards the chariot of Drona. Accompanied by Krishna,and his brothers, Dharmaja went near Drona and saluted him. Dharmaja sought permission from Drona to fight against him and also sought his blessings. "Dharmaja! Having Sri Krishna as your companion, you need not seek the blessings of others. There is victory where Krishna is." said Drona. Dharmaja asked Drona to tell him ways and means to defeat him. "As long as I hold bow and arrows and weapons in my hand, so long victory can never be yours. Whenever I abandon my arms and arrows, you can kill me. Having heard something unpleasant to me, from some one who always tells the truth, I will cast- off my arms in battle and do astrasanyasa."said Drona. Satisfied with his reply, Dharmaja approached Krupaacharya and sought his permission for war and also blessings for victory. "Dharmaja! My blessings will always be with you. But none can kill me in war. I am gratified with your coming" said Krupacharya. Then Dharmaja approached King Salya and sought his blessings. "Dharmaja! I have to fight for the sake of your enemy. In these circumstances, what help can I render you?" asked Salya. "O King Salya! please rember the boon given to me earlier" asked Dharmaja. "O! I remember it. It shall be accomplished. I will weaken the energy of Karna with my words and deeds during crucial times." said Salya. While Dharmaja was seeking the blessings of elders, Krishna looked at Karna who arrived there only to observe the arrangements of war. "Karna! It has been heard that from the hatredness of Bhishma, you will not fight in the war. Then why cannot you come and fight on our behalf till Bheeshma's fall." asked Krishna amusingly. "Though I abstained from war for the present, I will never forget the word given to Suyodhana. That you know." retorted Karna. Krishna smiled at Karna and accompanied Pandavas. After walking for a distance, Yudhishtira turned back and addressed the warriors on the side of Kouravas. "O Great warriors! I appeal to you. If any body is willing to join me, he can come over to me. I will treat him as my own brother" said Dharmaja. On hearing those words, one Yuyutsa, along with his army, abandoned Kourava Army and requested Dharmaja to permit him to join Pandavas. Dharmaja gladly welcomed him. Yuyutsa, condemning the wicked acts of Suyodhana, joined Pandava Army. Then Dharmaja boarded his chariot, put on his coat of mail and took out his bow and arrows and was ready for the war. All the others warriors in Pandava army took positions as directed by the ArmyChief Dhrushtadyumna." said Sanjaya to King Dhritarashtra. (A Humble request to the readers of Maha Bharata. From this point, Bhagavad Gita begins. There are some doubts with regard to Bhagavad Gita. The first and foremost is whether Bhavad Gita consisting of 700 Slokas is part and parcel of Maha Bharata or was it written separately by Veda Vyasa. There are Four Vedas: Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Adharvanaveda. (some may say three). In Maha Bharata, we can find the stories of several kings, celestial bodies, divine bodies, great sages and saints, Yajnas, yagas, rituals, politicsal science, moral science, and warfare as appeared in Vedas. In Bhagavad Gita, Veda Vyasa stuffed the essence of all Upanishads in a dialogue form between Krishna and Arjuna in 18 chapters in Bheeshma Parva. Therefore Maha Bharata is called Panchama Veda. Maha Bharata consists of 18 Parvas. Bhagavad Gita consists of 18 chapters. Maha Bharat War extended upto 18 days. . Hence there is no doubt that Bhagavad Gita is part and parcel of Mahabharata. Another doubt, lingering in the minds of some, is: How was it possible that Krishna told Arjuna, 700 slokas, in between two armies, while the armies on both sides were ready and eagerly waiting for war. Here, we have to observe one thing: Whenever there was an occasion, Veda Vyasa tried to teach us moral science or some esoteric doctrines, and essence of Upanishads etc. through some character. Narada taught Dharmaja political doctrines. Vidura taught Dhritarashtra moral science. Droupadi taught Satya Bhama the principles to be followed by a virtuous lady. Now in Bhagavad Gita Veda Vyasa taught the essence of Upanishads. Therefore, we have to read, understand and practice the principles enunciated in Gita instead of raising such silly doubts when and where it was taught. If we are able to read, understand and practice atleast one Sloka in Gita, our life will become glorious. Some great people entertained another doubt that there are several repetitions in Gita and a great saint like Veda Vyasa will never allow such repetitions. They found some slokas as repetitions or subsequently added (prakshiptas) and deleted them and published a new abridged Gita. This argument also has no legs to stand. We know our human knowledge is very very limited. We cannot understand anything when once it is taught. We require repeated learning from guru. Lord Krishna himself said that it was a very very intricate and complicated subject and very difficult to understand. Hence there is nothing wrong in Veda Vyasa repeatedly telling the secred knowledge, time and again, so that we will understand it well. Some humans raised another doubt that Bhagavad Gita is a Hindu Religious book and is intended to monks and ascetics. In the preface to Bhagavad Gita by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, it is written thus: "But owing to lack of understanding of the truth behind this subject, many persons who have only heard the name of the Gita, make this assertion that the books intended only for monks and ascetics and they refrain from placing the book for study before their children out of fear lest through knowledge of the Gita the latter renounce their hearts and homes and turn ascetics themselves. But they should consider the fact that Arjuna, who had due to infactuation, prepared himself to turn away from the duty of a Kshatriya and live on alms, being influenced by the most secret and mysterious teachings of the Gita, lived the life of a householder all his life and performed his duties, how can that very Gita produce this diametrically opposite result? Therefore, men who desire their own welfare should give up this delusion and with utmost faith and reverence induce their children to study the Gita understanding the meaning and the underlying idea of every verse and while studying and reflecting on it themselves, should, according to the injunction of the Lord, earnestly take to spiritual practice. for obtaining this most valuable human body, it is improper to waste even a single moment of one's time in indulging in transient enjoyments, the roots of sorrow." I thinsk this passage will dispel all our doubts. (Besides, extracting the above passage, I have taken number of words from Bhagavad Gita (English version) while translating Bhagavad Gita portion written by Tikkana. I extend my My salutations and acknowledgements to Gita Press, Gorakhpur). Now, Tikkana, explained Gita in nutshell. Bhagavad Gita starts from here: BHAGAVAD GITA. Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya thus: "Sanjaya! Having gathered on the holy place of Kurushetra, what did my sons and sons of Pandu do? "O King Dhritarashtra! Having seen the mighty army of Pandavas drawn up for the battle, your son Suyodhana, approached his Guru, Drona and spoke thus: "Acharya! Drona! Behold the mighty army of Pandavas arrayed by your Sishysa, and the son of Drupada, Drushtadyumna. The army of Pandavas is strong. In his army, there are Satyaki, Drupada, Dhrushta-kethu, Chekitana, Kasi Raja, Purujittu, kuntibhoja, Saibhya, Yudhaa-manyu, Uttamouja, Abhimanyu and Upa-pandavas who are great warriors equivalent to Bhima and Arjuna. They are all eagerly waiting for combat. Pandava Army is well protected by Bheema. In our army, the principal warriors are yourself, Bhishma, Krupacharya, Asvathaama, Salya, Vikarna, Bhoorisrava and other great warriors. They are capable of launching many Astras and Sastras and they have staked their lives for my sake in this war. Our Army, protected by Bheeshma is unconquerable. Hence you stand by the side of Bheesham and protect him" said Suyodhana. On hearing these words, Bheeshma, to cheer up Suyodhana, roared like a lion and blew his conch. The other generals also blew their respective conches. The tumultous sound of conches, kettledrums, tabors, and trumpets blared suddenly. Krishna blew his conch Panchajanya, Arjuna blew his conch Devadatta, Bheema blew his conch poundra, Yudhishtira blew his conch Ananta Vijaya, Nakula and Sahadeva blew their conches, Sughosha, manipushpaka and the kings of Panchala, Virata, Satyaki, Dhrushtadhumna, Sikhandi and other generals of each akshouhini blew their respective conches. Arjuna took Gandeeva into his hands and twanged his bow string. He looked at the mighty army of Kouravas. "Krishna! I should know with whom I have to fight. Hence place my chariot between the two armies."asked Arjuna. Accordingly, Krishna drove his chariot and staioned it in between both armies. Arjuna saw his kith and kin in both armies, his sons, grand sons, uncles, teachers, maternal uncles, brothers, cousins, nephews and grand nephews, and even his friends, father-in-laws and other well wishers and could not control his deep compassion and spoke thus: "Krishna! only at the instance of Suyodhana, this mass massacre happened. I am very much depressed on seeking my friends and relatives on both sides. My body is shivering. Gandiva slips from my hand. My legs are trembling. I cannot fight. For whose sake I desire to acquire this earth by means of this war, for whose pleasure I am engaged in this war, those are standing before me with an intention to stake their lives in this war. They are ready to die. The royal pleasures, acquired by killing my grand fathers, uncles, sons, fathers, brothers, Gurus, Sishyas, friends, will ever satisfy me. Will my name and fame spread on all four sides? We are killing our relatives on their side. They are also killing their relatives on our side. What remains? No, I do not agree for this sinful war. Even for the sovereignty over the fourteen worlds, how can I do this war. Krishna, let them do it. My mind is not wiling to fight with them. Without thinking about the dire consequences, with utmost greediness they are resorting to destroy their own race. This fact is known to you and to me. Knowing fully well the wild consequences of this war, what benefit we derive by killing them mercilessly. Krishna! if the race is destroyed, the age long family traditions disappear, virtues are lost and varna sankara(intermixture of castes) will happen. The destroyers of race will go to hell. Why should I acquire such a sin? With the greediness and covetousness for the sake of kingdom, I cannot kill my kith and kin and I do not kill" said Arjuna in a distressed mood. Beholding Arjuna who was overwhelmed with pity, whose eyes were filled with tears and who was full of sorrow, Krishna spoke thus: "Arjuna, now we are at war. At this crucial time, how has this infatuation overtaken you. This kind of cowardness does not befit you. This is for unwise, not for you. Raise like a hero. Drive away your cowardness. Be ready for war." said Krishna. "Krishna! Bheeshma and Drona are fit to be worshipped not to be pained with arrows. Is it manliness to kill noble and revered souls. It is better to live on alms in this world instead of killing them in the battle and enjoying royal pleasures. Krishna! those standing before me are no other than the sons of my paternal uncle. How can I kill them? Krishna! all my limbs are burning. Even if I am endowed with the power of Indra, my grief will not be extinguished. I cannot fight with them. I cannot kill my relatives, friends and Gurus. Because, there will be no difference, whether we win or they win. I am very much distressed. My mind is puzzled. I am unable to decide whcih is good and which is bad. I am your deciple. I pray you to show me the way out."requested Arjuna with folded hands. With a smiling face, Krishna replied thus: " You grieve for those who should not be grieved and yet speak like a wise and learned but wise and learned do not sorrow over the dead or living. You are being annoyed due to your ignorance. If you are wise and aware of truth, all these griefs will vanish. O Partha! boyhood, youth and old age are attributed only to this body. As we remove soiled clothes and wear new clothes, we leave this body when it is worn and attains another body. The wisemen do not get deluded about this. The birth and death is attributed only to this body not to Atma. Atma is eternal. You can cut this body with swords and arrows but not Atma. Atma is imperishable. Similarly, this body is not eternal. As these are the attributes of Atma, you need not grieve for anybody. The unwise may say that Atma will perish along with the body. Some may say that the soul is capable of being killed and others may say that the soul will be killed by others. Both are ignorant. The soul neither kills others nor killed by others. Atma is indestructible. None can destroy Atma. Purusha is none other than mine. I am Purushottama. The root cause for the plealsures or sorrows in the outside word is egoism. Therefore, shed your egoism and perform your duty consciously. Your duty is performing war. There is nothing more welcome for a man of warrior class than a righteous war. War is an open gate way to heaven. Therefore, stand up, perform your duty, and determine to fight. You have to offer the fruits of your actions to God. He who acts, offering all the fruits of his actions to God, and shaking off attachment, remains untouched by sin, as the lotus leaf by water." said Krishna to Arjuna. Then Arjuna raised number of doubts and Krishna patiently clarified them with his teachings. "Krishna! You have spoken, out of kindness to me, most profounding words of spiritual wisdom. With this, the delusion of mine has entirely disappeared. I desire to see your divine form possessed of wisdom, glory, energy, strength, valour and effulgence. O Krishna! if you think that it can be seen by me, reveal to me Your imperishable form." prayed Arjuna. "Arjuna! Behold my manifold, multifarious, divine forms of various colours and shapes, in hundreds and thousands, which you have never seen before. But you cannot see me with this ordinary human vision. I bless you with divine division with which you behold my divine power of Yoga." Having spoken thus, Krishna, the supreme Master of yoga, forthwith manifested to Arjuna his supremely glorious divine form. Arjuna saw the Supreme Deity, with effulgence of thousand suns, infinite and full of all wonders. Arjuna, with hair erected on his body, reverentially bowed his head before the divine Lord and with joined hands spoke thus: "O Lord! I see within your body, all Gods, different beings, divine bodies, Brahma, Siva and all sages and saints and celestial serpants. I see you endowed with numerious faces, arms, bellies, mouths, eyes and having innumerable forms, extending on all sides. I feel it a wonder. I could not see the beginning, middle or end of your divine form. Your splendour glowing all around, having the brilliance of blazing fire and sun, hard to gaze at you. You are the rootcause for all the entire unending universe. You are all pervasive, earth and space. There is no space where you are not there. Sun and Moon are your eyes. Rudras, Adityas, Maruts, Vasuvus, great sages and saints, plenty in number, are praising you. Siddha, Saadhya, Gandharvas are amazingly looking at your magnificent divine form. Seeing this stupendous and dreadful form of Yours, I am terror stricken. I am frightened and agitated. All the sons of Dhritarashtra along with Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa and other warriors and kings are entering Your body. Please be compassionate towards me and tell me about you" prayed Arjuna. "O Arjuna! I am the supreme being. I am Kala, the destroyer of all worlds. I am here to destroy all these warriors. There is none here to be killed by you. Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa, and others have alrelady been killed by me. You are only instrumental in killing them and conquering them. Therefore, stand up. Fear not. Fight with your enemy." said Krishna. On hering these words, Arjuna was trembling and bowed before Krishna with folded hands. "O Krishna! You are Vayu, You are Varuna, You are Sun, You are Moon, and you are Agni. You are the Supreme Lord of All worlds. You are eternal, endless, omnipotent, omnipresent. Unaware of your greatness, I called you as my friend, my relative, a yadava and belittled you while playing, taking food, and either alone or in the presence of others. Kindly forgive me and all my faults as father forgives his son." prayed Arjuna. "Having seen your wonderous form, which was never seen before, my heart is filled with joy, at the same time, my mind is tormented with fear. O Lord! be kind towards me and show me your soft divine form and make me happy." prayed Arjuna. Accordingly Krishna appeared before Arjuna in his original form. "O Arjuna! I have shown you, through my yogic power, this supreme, effulgent, primal and infinite cosmic form which has neverbeen seen before by anyone other than you. None can see it either through study of Vedas or rituals or austere penances. Seeing such a dreadful form of mine, dont be perturbed or perplexed. With a fearless and tranquil mind, behold once again the same four armed form of mine bearing conch, mace and lotus." "O Lord! seeing this gentle human form of yours, I have regained my composure and my mind attained normalcy." said Arjuna. "Arjuna, he who performs all his duties for My sake, depends on me, is devoted to me. He who has no attachments and is free from malice towards all beings, reaches me. " said Krishna. In this manner, Krishna taught Arjuna the essence of Upanishads and dispelled all his doubts from his mind. "Arjuna! I told you the most sacred and secret knowledge. Having known this, you can do whatever you like. I will tell one more secret. Relinquishing all your dharmas, take refuge in me with pure heart. I will absolve you of all sins. Worry not. You can tell this secret knowledge of truth to those who is endowed with austerity, devotion and willing to hear. Dont tell this to those who lacks these qualities. Arjuna! have you heard this secret knowledge? Has your delusion originated from your ignorance been destroyed?"asked Krishna. "O Lord Krishna! By your grace, my delusion has been dispelled and I have gained wisdom. I am free from all doubts. Having seen your mighty Visva Roopa, my mind has become strong and stable. Command me. I will do as you say." said Arjuna prostrating before Krishna. Arjund stood up and took his Gandeeva and arrows and was ready for war with firm and stable mind." said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra! having been blessed with the divine vision by the grace of Veda Vyasa, I also heard in person this supremely esoteric conversation between Krishna and Arjuna. Remembering also, again and again, that most wonderful form of Sri Krishna, great is my wonder and I rejoice over and over again. O King! whereever there is Bhagavan Sri Krishna, the Lord of Yoga, and whereever there is Arjuna, the wielder of Gandiva, victory, glory,and unfailing righteousness will surely be there." said Sanjaya with greatest devotion. Having heard all these things through Sanjaya, Dhritarashtra said: "O Sanjaya! Narrate the incidents of war between the two mighty armies standing one against the other in Kurukshetra, in detail" asked Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya continued to say: "O King Dhritarashtra! At the instance of Suyodhana, Dussasana advanced with his troops, with Bheeshma at their head and the Pandavas also advanced with cheerful hearts, having Bhima at their head. Then leonine shouts, clamorous uproars, blare of horns and the sound of drums arose in both armies. Your sons Dussaasana, Durmukha Dushpraha, Durmarsha, Vivimsati, Vrushasena, Chitrasena, Vikarna and Purumitra surrounded Bheema. Nakula, Sahadeva, Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi, and Dhrushtadyumna rushed against your sons and showered arrows on them. Both armies advanced against each other. The tumultous war began. With their chariots, horses, elephants and soldiers, kouravas and Pandvas were combatting with each other. Bheeshma was going round the entire battle field and encouraging his troops. He was shining like midday sun. Arjuna, blew his conch Devadatta and rushed against Bheeshma. Both Arjuna and Bheeshma, desirous of killing each other, were fighting. Satyaki rushed against Kritavarma, and during their fight, the bodies of both the warriors drenched with blood. Abhimanyu attacked King of Kosala. King of Kosala killed the charioteer and the horses of Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu broke his bow and his flag and injured him on his vital parts. Bheeshma rushed against Bheema and both were fighting fiercely. Nakula attacked Dussaasana. Nakula cut off the bow of Dussaasana and pierced him with many sharp arrows. Durmukha was fighting with Sahadeva. Sahadeva cut off his sharp arrows and killed the steeds tied to the chariot and also the chariot driver. Yudhishtira rushed against Salya. Yudhishtira broke the bow of Salya. Salta took another bow and showered arrows on Yudhishtira. Dhrushtadyumna jumed on Drona. Drona broke his bow into three pieces. Dhrushtadyumna took out another bow and shot 14 arrows on vital parts of Drona. Sahadeva ( king of Magadha) was fighting with Bhoorisrava. Their combat resembles the fight between Indra and Vrutraasura. Dhrutakethu rushed against Bahlika. Raakshasa Warrior Alambas encountered Ghatotkacha, son of Bheema. Powerful Sikhandi rushed against Asvathaama, deeply piercing a keen edged shaft and caused him to tremble. In return, Asvathaama also pierced dreadful arrows into his heart. Heroic Bhagadatta rushed against King Virata and showered arrows covering the sky. King of Kekaya attacked Krupacharya and they broke the flags of each other. They got down their chariots, armed with sharp swords, fought with each other. Beholding this, Jayadhradha and King Drupada arrived there in aid of those two heroes. Vikarna was fighting with Yudhaamanyu. Chekitaana rushed against Susarma and pierced his entire body with his sharp arrows. Sakuni was fighting with Prati Vindhya, son of Yudhishtira. Bhima's son Srutasoma was fighting with Sudakshina, king of Kambhoja. Arjuna's son Iravanta rushed against Srutaayuvu and broke his chariot. In return Srutaayuvu broke the chariot of Iravanta. Both got down their chariots and boarded other chariots and again engaged in direct combat with each other. Vinda and Anuvinda rushed against King Kunti Bhoja and his sons and showered arrows on him. Five Kekaya kings attacked Five Gandhara kings. Uttara Kumara son of King Virata was attacked by Deergabaahu, brother of Suyodhana. Sataaneeka son of Nakula was fighting with Ulooka. In this manner both the troops were fighting with each other. Thousands of single combats took place between Warriors on chariots, Warriors on elephants and horses, and also soldiers fighting on foot. The battle became furious. Elephants were rushing against elephants, chariots against chariots, horses against horses and so on. The conflict became confused and fierce in extreme. The infuriated elephants were running of their own accord crushing the foot soldiers under their feet. The arrows were showering like rain. Dual fights with swords, maces, spears were going on. The battle field was drenched with blood everewhere. Even if one hand is cut, the warriors were fighting with another hand. Even if one leg is cut, they are jumping on the enemy with another leg and were fighting with them. Even if the head is severed, the headless bodies are jumping on the enemy and severing their heads. Even in the faces of severed heads, the heriosm is clearly visible. Even if their elephants, horses or chariots are killed or broken, the warriors are boarding another chariot and continuing the fight. Even if they are inujured, they are rushing to the help of their friends and relaties. Even if the enemy is his friend and relative, they are fighting with them and severing their heads mercilessly. When the chariot driver is killed, the steeds tied to the chariots are running here and there dragging the chariot. Under the wheels of those chariots, several foot soldiers were being crushed. Elephants were running and crushing the fallen soldiers under their feet. Half of the first day battle was over. The midday sun was shining. Provoked by Suyodhana, Durmukha, Krupacharya, Kritavarma, Salya and Vivimsati, were standing on either side of Bheeshma and driving away Pandava army. Protected by those five warriors, Bhishma penetrated into Pandava army and tearing them into pieces. Kings of Chedi, Panchala, Kekaya were unable to stand before Bhishma. Beholding severed heads, broken bows, fallen bodies, broken chariots, fleeing soldiers, Pandava warriors trembled. None was there to rush against Bhishma. The Pandava army was running and fleeing hither and thither. At this juncture, Abhimanyu came to their rescue. He struck Salya with five arrows. He pierced the heart of Kritavarma with one arrow. He killed Durmukha with another arrow. He chased Vivimsati and broke his bow. Abhmanyu killed the steeds of Kripacharya's chariot. Then Abhimanyu jumed against Bheeshma. He shot powerful arrows into the whole body of Bheeshma. All stopped fighting and were looking at Abhimanyu and his prowess. Bhishma also thought for a while whether that boy is Arjuna or his son. He is resembling Arjuna in all resepcts. "Oh wonderful! he is not an ordinary warrior" thought Bhishma. Bheeshma cut the flag of Abhimanyu with three arrows and killed his Soota with another arrow. The remaining five warriors also showered arrows on Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu became furious. He cut all the arrows in the middle and gave a powerful retort.. He cut the flag of Bhishma with one arrow. Pandava army acclaimed the act of Abhimanyu. There was some confusion in Kourava army. In the meanwhile, roaring like a lion, Bheema arrived there in aid of Abhimanyu. Bheeshma became furious. He cut the flag of Bheema. Bheema shot three arrows against Bheeshma. He shot eight arrows against Krupacharya and Kritavarma. Bheema rushed against Salya. The other warriors accompanying Salya attacked Bheema. Bheema killed their chariot drivers, steeds and broke their chariots. Satyaki, Dhrushtadyumna, Kekaya kings, Virata and his sons, Uttara Kudmara arrived there to help Bheema. Uttara Kumara with his elephant forces, rushed against Salya. Uttara Kumara's elephant broke the chariot of Salya with its trunk and killed the steeds tied to the chariot. Salya grew angry. Salya darted one powerful arrow called Sakti aiming at the heart of UttaraKumara. The arrow with great speed cut the coatmail of Uttara kumara and pierced into his heart. Uttara Kumara lost his senses and fell down from the elephant on ground and died. Salya picked up a big sword and cut the trunk of that elephant and killed it. Salya jumed into the chariot of Kritavarma like a lion. Beholding the killing of his own brother, Uttara Kumara, his brother Sankha became furious. Sankha rushed against Salya with his elephant forces. Sankha's followers fell upon Salya all at a time. On seeing this, Bheeshma, along with some warriors, came in aid of Salya. The followers of Sankha fled away unable to attack Bheeshma. Arjuna immediately rushed towards Bheeshma in aid of Sankha, and stood between Bheeshma and Sankha. Arjuna and Bheeshma engaged in a fierce battle. Salya, jumped out of the chariot of Kritavarma, took his mace, and broke the chariot of Sankha. Sankha jumped out of his chariot, fled away and hid behind the chariot of Arjuna. Bheeshma, leaving Sankha, rushed against Drupada and his army. Like a forest consumed by fire in midsummer, the troops of Drupada were consumed by Bheeshma like fire. Bheeshma stood in the battle field like a blazing fire and like midday sun. The combatants of the Pandavas were not able to even look at Bhishma. Bheeshma was riding on his chariot in different directions, appearing himself anywhere and everywhere, like a blazing fire, destroying the enemy combatants. After finishing Panchala Army, he rushed against Virata Army. When the troops of Pandavas were being routed out and crushed all over the battle field, the sun set and moon rose to behold the prowess of Bhishma who was born in his Vamsa. Both sides stopped war for that day. Kourava army was jubilant and the Pandavas retired from battle field with gloomy faces." said sanjaya to Dhritarashtra, the important events of first day war. Thus Vaisampaayana told Janamejaya the story of Mahabharata. MAHA BHARATA BHEESHMA PARVA FIRST CHAPTER COMPLETED. OM TATSAT OMTATSAT OMTATSAT.
MAHABHARAT BHEESHMA PARVA SECOND CHAPTER. Saint Vaisampaayana continued to tell Janamejaya, the story of Mahabharata. On hearing the good news that their troops got upperhand on the first day of war, Dhritarashtra, with delighted heart, asked Sanjaya "O Sanhaya! Tell me what had happened on that night. Tell me in detail." Sanjaya continued to say. On that night, Dharmaja was very much distressed with their defeat on the first day of war. He along with his brothers, other friends and relaltives, went to Sri Krishna's place of stay. "O Krishna! Have you seen that mighty warrior, Bhishma's terrible prowess. He consumed our troops like fire in the forest. The mighty warrior Bhishma of great energy is incapable of being vanquished. I foolishly thought that Bheeshma is an ordinary Maha Radha. My brothers are seriously injured. Even the Dikpalakas are no match to Bheeshma in war. We thought that Arjuna will conquer Bheeshma. But Arjuna also failed in his task. It is only Bhima that showed his prowess and used his full vigour and valour in attacking Kouravas. I cannot blame anybody. I will stop the war with immediate effect. I cannot annihilate my entire army and the kings who have come to fight on my behalf, at the hands of Bheeshma. It is better to go back to forest and consume leaves and vegetables. I will proceed as per your advise. Till now we have been achieving victories only with your blessings. Now also I am seeking your advise." prayed Yudhishtira. "Dharmaja! at this crucial moment, why are you talking like this? Why you are undergoing this mental agony? Who will face you in the battle, tell me! Your brothers are all invincible and capable of conquering the entire universe. Sikhandi is already there ready to kill Bheeshma. You have not so far observed the prowess of Satyaki and his wonderful warfare. King Drupada, and Kring Virata, terrible warriors of this age, are ready to shed their lives for your sake. I do not understand why you are so much distressed like this. Dhrushtadyumna alone is capable of vanishing the entire Kourava army." said Sri Krishna. Beholding Dhrushtadyumna, Dharmaja said: "Krishna suggested you to be our Army Chief. Accordingly, I made you as Army Chief for the entire seven akshohini Pandava Army. Myself, my brothers, Sri Krishna and other frineds are always with you. Command our troops with all your ability and acquire victory." said Yudhishtira. "O Dharmanandana! I was created by Lord Brahma only to kill Drona. It is a wellknown truth. I need not tell again and again. You will see how I destroy the prominent heroes in Kuru army" said Dhrushtadyumna. With the heroic words of Dhrushtadyumna, every body was very mugh delighted. "Dhrushtadyumna! in the past, during Deva Danava War, Brihaspati told Devendra about Krouncha Vyooha, destructive of all our enemies. Tomorrow you array our troops in the form of Krouncha bird." said Yudhishtira. "I will do like that" said Dhrushtadyumna. With a lightening heart, Yudhishtira, along with his brothers and friends, left that place for their respective places of stay. Next day morning, Dharmaja proceeded to inspect the Krouncha Vyooha. Arjuna on his chariot, driven by Sri Krishna, with his army, formed as beak of Krouncha bird. Kunti Bhoja, Saibya along with their army stood at the place of eyes. Drupada was standing as crown of Krouncha. Dasarna, Soorasena, Kiraatha kings, with their resepctive huge armies formed as neck. Bhima, Dhrushtadyumna with their mighty army formed as wings of the bird, on either side. Abhimanyu, Satyaki, sons of Droupadi, Poundra, Cholas, Pandyas, were standing beside Bhimasena, and Nakula, Sahadeva, Ghatoatkacha, Sambara, Vatsa kings were standing beside Dhrushtadyumna. Kekaya and Kasi Kings, with their armies formed as waist of the bird. Dharmaja, accompanied by Hoona King and other kings, with their armies formed as spinal of the bird. Thus the entire Pandava army was arrayed in the shape of Krouncha Vyuha. Beholding the Krouncha vyooha, Suyodhana addressed Bheeshma, Drona, Asvathaama, Krupacharya, Salya and Kritavarma: "O mighty warriors! each of you is capable of slaying in battle the sons of Pandu with their troops. Even Lord Siva is not capable of standing before you in the battle. Today Pandavas arrayed Krouncha Vyooha. We have to array our troops in a better vyooha, which can beat out Krouncha Vyoha." said Suyodhana. As per the words of King Suyodhana, Bheeshma arrayed the Kourva troops into a different vyooha. Dussaasana, Vikarna, Vinda, Anuvinda, Soorasena, Yavana, Trigarta kings stood on one side. Drona, Kuntala, Dasarna, Vidarbha kings, Gandhara, Sindu, Souveera kings stood on the otherside. In between Bheeshma, along with his mighty army stood. Thus the entire Kourava army was divided into three parts to attack Krouncha on three sides. Behind Bheeshma, stood King Suyodhana along with his brothers, and Kritavarma, Salya, Ashmanta, Kashmir kings were standing beside him. Thus both the troops were arrayed for the battle. Thereupon, conches and drums and diverse kinds of horns and cymbals, were sounded at once by both troops and the noise made became a loud uproar. The second day battle commenced. Suyodhana, waving his hand, gave signal to his troops to fight. The mighty-armed Bhishma of terrible prowess rushed into the Krouncha vyooha and tore it into pieces. He showered arrows like rain and cut the wings of Krouncha, severed its neck and broke the head. The Krouncha Vyooha was shattered at the hands of Beeshma. Bhishma was moving on his chariot in the battle field, as if he was there everewhere. Arjuna, beholding that mighty car-warrior Bhishma, with great wrath, told Krishna: "Proceed to the place where Bheeshma is. It is evident that this Bhishma, with wrath excited, will annihilate for Duryodhana's benefit, all our troops in no time. We have to stop him." said Arjuna. "Arjuna! Certainly I will drive our chariot towards Bheeshma. But be careful. Dont be confused. Attack Bheeshma with all your vigour and valour. Create fear in the minds of Salya and other warriors. " said Krishna driving the chariot towards Bheeshma. Arjuna shattered the army of Soorasena who encountered him in the middle by showering powerful arrows on them. Then Arjuna rushed impetuously against Bheeshma. Bheeshma shot 77 sharp arrows into the body of Arjuna. Then Drona with 25 arrows, Kripacharya with 500 shafts, Vikarna with three shafts, Salya with nine arrows and Suyodhana with 64 powerful sharp arrows, struck Arjuna on all parts of his body. But Arjuna did not shake. In return Arjuna struck Beeshma with 20 arrows, Drona with 60 shafts, Kripacharya with nine powerful arrows, Vikarna and Salya each with three arrows and Duryodhana with five arrows. In the meanwhile, Satyaki, Virata, Dhrushtadyumna, sons of Droupadi, Abhimanyu gathered there. All of them, at a time, attacked the warriors in Kourava Army. Bheeshma shot 50 sharp arrows at a time against Arjuna. Arjuna did not care for them and began to shower arrows on the Kourava army. Unable to resist them, Kourava warriors fled away. Arjuna chased them. Arjuna was killing mercilessly the warriors in kourava army, their charioteers, and the steeds tied to chariots. At this juncture, Suyodhana went near Bheeshma: "Arjuna is killing our warriors mercilessly. You are simply keeping quiet. Is it proper? The only warrior who can attack Arjuna is Karna. Because of you, he is not fighting. Neither you fight, nor allow Karna to fight. I do not know what to do." said Suyodhana. Bheeshma was very much annoyed with his words. Bheeshma asked his chariot driver to drive his chariot against Arjuna. Suyodhana, Vikarna, Asvaathaama were guarding Bheeshma, standing by his side. All at a time fell upon Arjuna and showered sharp arrows on Arjuna. Dharmaja, Bhimasena, Nakula, Sahadeva rushed towards Arjuna to help him. There was a fiercest fight between Bheeshma and Arjuna. Bheeshma shot arrows aiming at the chariot driver Krishna. Those arrows pierced into the heart of Krishna and blood was flowing out. Arjuna was indignant on seeing Krishna struck with arrows. Arjuna showered powerful arrows against Bheeshma which were cut by Bheeshma in the middle. In return, Bheeshma poured innumerable arrows on the chariot of Arjuna and his chariot disappeared for a moment. Both Bheeshma and Arjuna engaged in a dual combat fiercely. Sun rose to the middle of the sky. In another war front, Dhrushtadyumna drove his chariot upon Drona and shot powerful arrows on him. Drona grew angry and killed the chariot driver of Dhrushtadyumna. He also killed the horses and cut the bow into two pieces. The flag of Dhrushtadyumna was cut into pieces byDrona. Both Drona and Dhrushtadyumna were shooting arrows on each other. Dhrushtadyumna hurled his mace against Drona. Drona with his powerful arrows, cut the mace into pieces. Again Drona cut the bow of Dhrushtadyumna. Dhrushtadyumna took out another bow and shot arrows against Drona. Agan Drona with two arrows killed the chariot driver and steeds of Dhrushtadyumna and cut his bow. Dhrushtadyumna jumed down from his chariot, took out a sword and shield and fought with Drona but he could not resist Drona and his arrows. Bhimasena came to the rescue of Dhrushtadyumna. Bhimasena shot seven shafts against Drona. Dhrushtadyumna mounted another chariot. Then Suyodhana provoked Kalinga king by waving his hand, to attack Bhimasena. King of Kalinga, along with his troops proceeded against Bhimasena. In the mean while Drona, abandoning Dhrushtadyumna, went against King Virata and King Drupada and released powerful shafts from his bow against them. Dharmaja came there in aid of Dhrushtadyumna. Chedi, Karoosa kings with their troops attacked Bhimasena. Ketumanta impetuously rushed against Bhimasena. Unable to resist Ketumanta's powerful darts, Pandava troops were burning like insects in fire. The rest fled away. Roaring like a lion, Ketumanta showered arrows on Bhimasena. Bhimasena in return, hurled his mace against Ketumanta. The mace broke his chariot and flag and also the head of Ketumanta. Ketumanta was consigned to the abode of yama. Bhimasena, with a sharp sword in his hand, was moving all around, killing the enemy troops. Sakra Deva, son of the King of Kalinga, rushed against Bhimasena and killed the steeds of the chariot of Bhimasena. Sakra Deva shot powerful sharp shafts piercing the entire body of Bhimasena. The unshaken Bhimasena delivered a heavy blow with his mace on Sakra Deva's head and killed him. Beholding the killing of his son, Kalinga King Srutaayuvu drove his chariot against Bhimasena. He shot 14 Tomaras on Bhimasena which were cut off by Bhimasena in middle. Bhanumanta, brother of King Kalinga, along with his elephant troops, attacked Bhimasena and showered arrows on him. He rushed at Bhimasena on his elephant. Bhimasena roared like a lion, caught the elephant of Bhanumanta and jumped upon it. Bhimasena cut the head of Bhanumanta with his sharp sword. He also killed the elephant of Bhanumanta. King of Kalinga instigated his elephant troops to attack Bhimasena. At that time, Bhimasena was moving in the battle field armed with his sword. Bhimasena was cutting the trunks and tusks of elephants one by one. Having thus crushed the huge number of elephants, next killed the steeds also. At that juncture, the charioteer of Bhimasena brought his chariot and placed before Bhimasena. Complimenting the charioteer, Bhimasena mounted on the chariot. He took his bow and shot five arrows piercing King of Kalinga. King of Kalinga fell on the chariot unconscious. Bhimasena killed his Chakra Rakshakas (warriors on either side of wheels) Satya and Satya Deva, with his sharp and powerful shafts. The troops of Kouravas fled away. The charioteer of King of Kalinga took the chariot away from the field. Bhimasena blew his conch. On hearing the terrific sound of conch of Bhimasena, Bheeshma also blew his conch and encouraged his troops. Dhrushtadyumna, Sikhandi and Satyaki came there together and stood by the side of Bhimasena and attacked Bhishma. Bhishma, fought with all the other warriors except Sikhandi. Bhishma killed the steeds tied to the chariot of Bhimasena. Bhimasena took out his mace, got down of his chariot, and jumped on Bheeshma. Satyaki intervened and killed the charioteer of Bheeshma. Upon his charioteer being killed, Bheeshma was taken away from the field of battle by his steeds with the speed of the wind. When that mighty car-warrior was thus taken away from the war field, Bhimasena then blazed up like a mighty fire while consuming dry grass. He took his mace and began to crush the Kourava troops. The troops of Kouravas fled away. Dhrushtadyumna picked up Bhimasena into his chariot. Satyaki also arrived there and praised Bhimasena. "O Bhimasena! with your great prowess you have killed the King of Kalinga and his brothers and sons. " applauded Satyaki. Beholding the defeat of King of Kalinga, Salya, Kripacharya, Asvathaama rushed to that spot. Dhrushtadyumna drove his chariot against them, after dropping Bhimasena at that spot. Then Dhrushtadyumna killed the steeds tied to the chariot of Asvathaama with ten sharp arrows. Asvsthaama mounted the chariot of Salya and launched powerful darts on Dhrushtatyumna. In the meanwhile, Abhimanyu came there on his chariot and joined Dhrutadyumna. He launched nine darts each, upon Kripaacharya, Asvathaama. They, in turn, launched each 12 darts on Abhimanyu. Lakshmana, son of Suyodhana, came in between and fought aganst Abhimanyu and shot number of arrows on the vital parts of Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu returned those arrows with 50 sharp shafts. Lakshmana broke the bow of Abhimanyu. Kourava troops acclaimed him. Abhimanyu picked up another bow and incessantly showered arrows on Lakshmana. He cut the coat mail of Lakshmana. Beholding this, Suyodhana turned his chariot towards Abhimanyu. In aid of Suyodhana, Bheeshma, Drona and other warriors arrived there to fight against Abhimanyu. Incapable of being defeated in battle and equal in prowess even to Krishna himself, that hero, Abimanyu, thus surrounded by those heroes, was not agitated in the least. Then Dhananjaya, beholding Subhadra's son engaged in battle, rushed to that spot, excited with wrath, desirous of rescuing his own son. Yudhishtira waved his hand to his troops to proceed towards Arjuna. The troops of Pandavas arrived there in aid of Arjuna. Thousands of elephants and hundreds of kings, when they came within reach of Arjuna's arrows, were all unable to make any further advance. Then a thick earthly dust, suddenly raised by foot-soldiers and steeds and chariots and cavalry troopers, covered the sky. When all these combatants of kourava army had fled away, Arjuna and Vasudeva blew their conches, Devadatta and Pancajanya. Beholding Drona, Bheeshma said: "Acharya! Dhananjaya, accompanied by Krishna, is dealing with our troops as he alone is competent to deal with them. He is incapable of being vanquished in battle today by any means. Our troops are fleeing away from the war field. They are almost verymuch tired. The sun is setting on the west. It is better to put an end to the war for this day." said Bheeshma. Drona also agreed for this proposal. Bheehsma gave a signal to stop the war. All the troops on both sides retired to their own places of stay. Next day, i.e, the third day of war, Bheeshma arrayed Garuda Vyooha and commanded the troops in the following manner. Bheeshma stood at the place of the beak of Garuda. Drona and Kritavarma formed as eyes. Kripacharya and Asvathaama along with their troops formed into the head of Garuda. Trigarta Kings, Bhoorisravasa, Salya, Bhagadatta, Souveera, Jayadhradha with their respective troops formed as neck of Garuda. Suyodhana along with his brothers stood as back of Garuda. Vinda, Anuvinda, King of Kambhoja, Soorasena, stood at the tail end. Kings of Magadha and kalinga formed as right wing and Kings of Karnataka and Kosala formed as left wing. In this fashion, all the troops of Kouravas formed into Garuda vyuha and were ready for the combat. Beholding this, Arjuna suggested Dhrushtadyumna to form Half Moon vyooha. Accordingly, Dhrushtadyumna arrayed his troops into Ardha Chandra Vyooha. Bhimasena, along with his troops, stood at the right horn and King Virata, King Drupada, Neela, with their respective troops, stood by the side of Bhimasena. Yudhishtrira staioned in the middle of the moon. Dhrushtadyumna, along with Sikhandi stood in front of Yudhishtira, protecting him. Satyaki, Nakula, Sahadeva, sons of Droupadi, Abhimanyu, Ghatotkacha, King of Kekaya, with their respective troops stood on either of Yudhishtira. Arjuna stood at the left horn. In this manner, the half moon vyooha was arrayed. The sounds of trumpets, horns rose to the sky. Then commenced the battle of third day between your troops and those of Pandava troops, striking one another. Chariots and elephants mingled in the clash of combat. Large numbers of elephants and crowds of chariots were seen everywhere, to rush towards one another for purpose of slaughter. Arjuna with his powerful arrows released from his mighty bow, Gandeeva, was striking the chariots, chariteers, steeds, flags tied to the chriots. All your sons together attacked Arjuna from all sides. Remaining Pandavas rushed towards Arjuna to help him. Kourava troops,under the leadership of Bhishma, and Pandava troops under the leadership of Bhima were fiercely fighting with each other. At that time, Bhishma and Drona, and Jayadratha, the ruler of the Sindhus and Purumitra, and Vikarna, and Sakuni broke the ranks of the Pandavas. Bhimasena and Ghatotkacha, and Satyaki, and Chekitana, and the sons of Draupadi, supported by all the kings on their side, began to grind your troops and your sons stationed in battle. Suyodhana drove his chariot against Bhimasena. Bheeshma and Drona were by the side of Suyodhana, to help him. Arjuna drove his chariot and stood in between them and shot Suyodhana, Bheeshma and Drona with his powerful shafts. Stayaki stood by the side of Arjuna and helping him. Both these warriors were tearing off the Kourava troops into pieces. Sakuni broke the chariot of Satyaki. Satyaki jumped into the chariot of Abhimanyu. Satyaki and Abhimanyu together struck Sakuni with powerful arrows. Yudhishtira drove his chariot towards Bheeshma and engaged in direct combat with Bheeshma. Suyodhana attacked Bhimasena and showered sharpedged arrows on Bhimasena. Bhimasena cut off those arrows into fragments and shot an arrow aiming at the chest of Suyodhana. Suyodhana fell down on his chariot and fainted. The charioteer of Suyodhana frightened and drove his chariot away from the war field. All the troups scattered away thinking that Suyodhana fell down and defeated. Dhrushtadyumna began to chase the kourava troops. Bhimasena joined him in chasing the troops. Kourava army fled away. Bheeshma an Drona were confused. They were shouting "Dont run. Stop. Suyodhana is safe" and checked the troops. Unable to attack Bhimasena, all the troops were fleeing away. Abhimanyu and Satyaki also were chasing Sakuni and his troops. Sakuni along with his relatives and troops fled away. On other front, Arjuna was slaughtering the Kourava troops. When everybody was trembling with grief and fear, Suyodhana regained consciousness. Beholding what was happening, he rebuked his charioteer for bringing his chariot out of war field. He saw Bheeshma and Drona staioned at one point, in a helpless condition. First he has gone round the battle field shouting that he was safe and nothing to worry. Beholding Suyodhana, all the kourava troops stopped and returned back. Them Suyodhana went near Bheeshma and Drona: "My dear Grand Father Bheeshma! and Dronacharya! you both are capable of vanishing the entire Pandava army in no time. I do not regard it, as at all creditable, that my army should thus fly away, when you are very much alive. I do not regard that Pandavas are a match for you. But, without doubt, you are favouring Pandavas. Had you revealed this much earlier, I would have requested Karna to enter the war field and fight with Pandavas. What can I do now?" said Suyodhana. Bheeshma smiled at Suyodhana and said: "Listen to me carefully. You know pretty well that even if Indra comes down with his entire divine army, he cannot conquer Pandavas. Still you are talking like this. We are old and half dead. How can you expect Pandavas to be defeated at our hands and at the hands of wicked. Any how, for your sake, we will fight to the extent of our power in this battle." said Bheeshma. Then he blew his conch. The sounds of trumpets and horns rose high. Bheeshma enraged with anger. On hearing the sounds of conch of Bheeshma and other warriors, Arjuna, Krishna, Dharmaja and Bhimasena also blew their conchs. Bheeshma drove his chariot against Arjuna. All the Kourava warriors were helping Bheeshma. Bhimasena and other kings were guarding Arjuna. Shouts, cries, alarms, like "Stop , Dont go, I am waiting for you, Kill him," are heard everywhere. Chariots are broken. Deadbodies without heads, hands and legs were scattered everywhere. The deadbodies of horses and elephants were obstructing the combatants on foot. Unable to move in the war field freely, some troops gathered into groups here and there. Bheeshma was moving like a whirl wind in the entire war field. Bheeshma was slaughtering the Pandava army like enraged fire in forest. The Pandava warriors and their troops were frightened and they were unable to stand before Bheeshma or even look at him. Beholding that the Pandava army was routed, Krishna asked Arjuna: "O Arjuna! I heard you saying that "I will kill all the warriors of Dhritarashtra's sons, headed by Bhishma and Drona, and all who will fight with me in battle". Why cannot you make those words of yours true. Behold Arjuna! Pandava army is being routed on all sides and the kings in Yudhishthira's army are all flying away, seeing Bhishma in battle, who looks like the Destroyer. Afflicted with fear, they are making themselves scarce like the weaker animals at sight of the lion." sai Sri krishna. "Sri Krishna! Drive our chariot against Bheeshma. I will see his end" said Arjuna. Krishna took his chariot and stood before Bheeshma. Bheeshma showered powerful arrows on the steeds tied to chariot, and against the charioteer and Arjuna. Krishna grew wild when Bheeshma shot at him. Arjuna broke the bow of Bheeshma with one arrow. Bheeshma picked up another bow. Arjuna broke that bow also. Bheeshma took up another bow and shot number of sharp arrows on Arjuna and Krishna. Krishna was driving the chariot of Arjuna in various wonderful directions to ward off the arrows of Bheeshma. Arjuna also shot several shafts against Bheshma and pained him. But Krishna was severely injured. Krishna looked at Arjuna and thought: "Arjuna also was badly injured. Unable to control Bheeshma, pandava troops were fleeing away. Nobody is able to stand before Bhishma. Yudhishthira's army could not survive that slaughter. It appears that in a single day Bhishma can slaughter all the Pandava troops and fulfill the desires of Suyodhana in a single dlay. All the Kekaya kings, Panchalas and other kings are fleeing away. Beholding this, the kourava troops are madly chasing them. It is of no use if i keep quiet. I should kill Bheeshma and save Dharmaja" thought Krishna deeply in mind. Again Bheeshma showered numerous keen-edged arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna was unable to hold Gandeeva. On seeing this, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Asvathaama, BhooriSravasa, Saindhava, Vikarna, all at a time, drove their chriots against Arjuna and surrounded him. Satyaki quickly rushed to that spot along with his elephant forces, shouting loudly "Why you are fleeing away! stop there. Return back. We know much about Bheeshma. Chase him and kill him. Kill the troops of Kouravas mercilessly" so shouting Satyaki was going round the battle field. "What Satyaki! why you are calling back those cowards. I will soon throw Bhishma down from his chariot, and Drona also in battle, with all their followers.I will destroy the entire Kourava army. I will enthrone Dharmaja for the entire earth surrounded by four seas." Saying this, Krishna, abandoning the reins of the steeds, jumped down from the chariot, whirling with his right arm his Sudarsana Chakra, not caring for the upper cloth falling, infuriating with wrath, rushed impetuously towards Bhishma. All the troops and warriors on both sides stunned. They all stopped fighting and staring at Krishna. Beholding this, Bheeshma, eaving his bow and arrows in the chariot, fearlessly said, "Come, Come, O Lord of the gods, I bow to you, armed with mace, sword and Saranga. O Krishna, forcibly throw me down from my chariot and killme, O Krishna, great will be my good fortune both in this world and the next. My dignity will be celebrated in the three worlds." so saying, Bheeshma, with folded hands, rushed against Krishna. Arjuna was in a perplexed state. He quickly got down from his chariot, ran on foot after Krishna and seized him by his two hands. But Krishna was dragging Arjuna. Arjuna fell on the ground. He again rose and caught krishna and succeeded in stopping him. "O Krishna, You are the saviour of the Pandavas, O Kesava. I swear, by my sons and brothers that I will not withdraw from the acts to which I have pledged myself. With your help and guidance, I will kill the entire Kourava army. Is it proper on your part to defame me by killing Bhishma and kouravas. Please cool down and come back." requested Arjuna. Krishna was gratified with the words of Arjuna and returned back to the chariot and took the reins of the steeds. Arjuna mounted the chariot. Sri Krishna and Arjuna blew their conches, Panchajanya and Devadatta. The sounds of Drums, and Horns of Kourava troops rose to the sky. Again Bheeshma, Bhoorisravasa, Salya and Suyodhana, all at a time launched the powerful arrows like Sakti, and hurled weapons like mace, tomara etc. Arjuna, with his powerful arrows, tore them into pieces. Arjuna invoked Indra Astra on Kourava troops. That mighty weapon, Indra Astra, producing profuse showers of arrows endued with the effulgence of the blazing fire, cutting off the arms, bows, and chariots, penetrated into the bodies of the kings and of the huge elephants and steeds of the Kourava troops. Arjuna cut the bow of Bhoorishravasa. He shot nine arrows against Salya. In the meanwhile, Kings of Panchala, Virata along with their armies proceeded towards Arjuna. Kourava troops were unable to stand before Arjuna. All the Kouravas surrounded Arjuna were vanished by him. Krishna and Arjuna blew their conches. The sun was set. Bheeshma, unable to attack Arjuna, put an end to the war for that day. All the troops returned back to their places of stay. The Pandava troops were jubilant, acclaiming the prowess of Arjuna. In this manner, the third day was closed" said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya continued to narrate the incidents of fourth day war. "Next day, the fourth day war began. Bheeshma, supported by large number of forces, proceeded to the war field. Drona, Suyodhana, Bahlika also assembled in the battle field. Bheeshma blew his conch. Pandavas along with their mighty army also entered the war field. Krishna and Arjuna were shining like sun and moon. They blew Panchajanya and Devadatta, their conches. The forces on both sides began to fight with each other. With several types of weapons and arms, Tomaras, Kuntas, Kshurikas, spears, maces, Musalas, Mudgaras etc. the two armies, excited with rage and desirous of vanquishing the other, were fighting with each other. Bheeshmaa was moving every where in the battle field and was killing Pandava armyy. Suyodhana, Drona, Vivimsati, Krupacharya, Somadatta,and Salya were accompanying Bhishma. Beholding this situation, Abhimanyu, with a single hand, attacked all those warriors. Abhimanyu cut all the arrows and weapons shot by them, in the middle. Bheeshma, leaving Abhimanyu, attacked Arjuna. Arjuna was fighting with Bheeshma fiercely. The troops on both sides, and all the people there, beheld that single combat between those two foremost of men, viz., Bhishma and Dhananjaya. Asvathaama, Bhoorisrava, the son of Salya, Chitrasena conspired together and fell upon Abhimanyu at a time. Abhimanyu, with a smile, shot a powerful arrow towards the chest of Asvathaama. He broke the bow of the son of Salya. He also cut the bow of Suyodhana. He defeated Bhoorisravasa. With single hand, Abhimanyu was fighting with all those warriors. But nobody was able to stand before him, with life. Proudly looking at his son, Abhimanyu, Arjuna was killing the kourava army with his sharp arrows. At this juncture, Suyodhana ordered Trigartas, Kritavarma, king of Kekaya to attack Abhimanyu, all at a time, with 35,000 car warriors. Accordingly, all of them attacked Abhimanyu. Beholding this, Dhrushtadhyumna, overtaking the chariot of Arjuna, rushed to that spot. He shot Kripacharya with three shafts, Salya with ten arrows and Kritavarma with one arrow. He killed the steeds tied to the chariots and broke their chariots. Then the son of Salya shot Dhrushtadyumna with ten arrows and killed his chariot driver with another ten arrows. With great wrath, Dhrushtadyumna, broke the bow of the son of Salya with a spear. He hurled Nagastra. He killed the charioteer, the steeds of son of Salya and broke his chariot also. The son of Salya jumped out of his broken chariot. He took a sword and shield and began to fight. Dhrushtadyumna took out a mace and attacked the son of Salya. With one stroke of his mace, the sword of Salya's son was broken into pieces. With the second stroke, the head of Salya's son was broken. He fell on the ground and died. Beholding the death of his son, the wrath of Salya knew no bounds. He jumped upon Dhrushtadyumna. Salya shot wonderful shafts on Dhrushtadyumna. On hearing all these details about the death of Kourava Warriors, Dhritarashtra was very much annoyed. "Sanjaya! It is becoming certain that Pandavas will vanquish our entire army in no time. Becuse of my son's greediness, covetousness, wickedness and adament attitude, all this is happening. I am hearing these bad news, day in and day out. How to defeat Pandavas is not known. What to do?" said Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra! This is nothing. You will hear more bad news in coming days.. I will continue. In that manner, Salya showered powerful arrows on Dhrishtadyumna. Abhimanyu attacked Salya. Suyodhana instigated his brothers, Durmukha, Dussaha, Durmarshana, Satyavrata, Chitrasena, Purumitra, Vivisati, Vikarna to attack Abhimanyu. All of them surrounded Abhimanyu and Dhrishtadyumna. Dhrishtadyumna encountered them and gave a fitting reply with his arrows. Nakula and Sahadeva also joined Dhrishtadyumna. They began to fight with Salya. Salya showered sharp pointed arrows on all of them and chase them away. The kings of Panchala, Matsya, standing on either side of Nakula and Sahadeva, were fighting with Salya. All of them were chasing the kourava troops. Some of our troops went to the help of Salya. By that time it was midday. Bhimasena armed with his mace and stood before your son, Suyodhana. He challenged Suyodhana that today will be the last day for the war. All of your sons were perturbed. Suyodhana asked the King of Magadha to attack Bhimasena with his elephant forces. Beholding the elephant forces of King Maghadha, Bhimasena smiled. He roared like a lion. On hearing that sound, some elephants' hearts were broken. Bhimasena was killing the elephants one by one, by breaking their heads with his mighty mace.. Sons of Droupadi, Abhimanyu, Nakula, Sahadeva, Dhrishtadyumna were standing by the side of Bhimasena and were striking the elephants with their powerful darts. King of Maghadha drove his elephant towards Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu struck that elephant with one arrow. With another arrow, he shot King Magadha. With that shot, King of Magadha fell from his elephant and died. On one side, Dhrishtadyumna began to kill the entire elephant forces with his powerful arrows. From the other side, Bhimasena was killing all the elephants with his mace. The tusks, trunks, legs and heads of the elephants were broken and they are rolling on the ground. Unable to face the onslaught of Bhimasena, all the elephants began to flee away waywardly. While killing the elephants in that manner, Bhimasena was moving between the elephants like a lion. He was driving away the elephants like a shephard driving his sheep. Beholding this, Suyodhana went round the battle field, emboldening the troops and instigating them to attack Bhimasena. All the Kourava troops rushed against Bhimasena like a ocean. But Bhimasena restrained those forces like a seashore. Dhrishtadyumna, Abhimanya, Sons of Droupadi were helping Bhimasena in slaughtering Kourava troops. Bhimasena was striking the Kouravas with his mace indiscriminately. All the Kourava troops fled away from the battle field with great fear, in order to save their lives.. Beholding this Bhishma drove his chariot against Bhimasena and showered innumerable shafts upon Bhimasena. Satyaki came in between and attacked Bhishma. The Rakshasa King, Alambas attacked Satyaki and fought with him. Alambas shot Satyaki with ten arrows. Satyaki in return shot Alambas with four arrows. Bhoorishravasa, son of Somadatta, shot nine arrows against Satyaki. In return, Satyaki struck Bhoorishravasa with number of arrows. In the meanwhile, Suyodhana along with his brothers, arrived there to help Bhoorishravasa. All of them surrounded Satyaki. Bhimasena saw this. He showered innumerable arrows on Suyodhana and his brothers. Unable to attack Bhimasena, all the brothers of Suyodhana fled away. Beholding the fate of his brothers, infuriated with warth, Suyodhana shot nine arrows against Bhimasena. Bhimasena jumped into his chariot and shot fifteen shafts against Suyodhana. With three arrows, he struck Nandaka, charioteer of Suyodhana. In return, Suyodhana, with 60 arrows, pained Bhimasena and his charioteer, Visoka. With another arrow, he broke the bow of Bhimasena. Bhimasena took out another bow and broke the bow of Suyodhana with one arrow. Suyodhana with another bow, shot against the chest of Bhimasena, with a powerful shaft. Bhimasena fainted and fell down. Abhimanyu observed this. Dhrushtadyumna, sons of Droupadi and Abhimanyu, all at a time, fell upon Suyodhana. Bhimasena regained consciousness and stood up. He again charged against Kourava troops and showered innumerable arrows on Suyodhana and Salya. All the kourava troops fled away, as elephants chased by lion. At that juncture, your sons, Senapati, Sushena, Jalasandha, Sulochana, Bhimasena, Bhemaradha, Bhimabaahu, Dushpradarsha, Durmukha, Vivitsa and some others attacked Bhimasena, all at a time, and showered powerful sharp shafts on Bhimasena. Bhimasena jumped on them like a tiger on calves. Bhimasena cut the head of Senapati; killed Jalasandha with three arrows; broke the chest of Sushena; killed Bhimabahu with five sharp arrows; cut the head of Ugra; killed Bhima and Bhimaradha at a time with one shot; and killed Sulochaana with four arrows. Beholding these killings of your sons, Kourava troops fled away with fear. Bhishma alerted his troops. "Bhimasena is massacring the sons of Dhritarashtra and kourava troops. Attack him! Dont be afraid!" Bhishma cried aloud. On hearing this alarm, Bhagadatta drove his huge elephant on Bhimasena. He showered arrows on Bhimasena as if clouds are covering the sun. For a moment, the chariot of Bhimasena disappeared behind that shower of arrows. Abhimanyu and sons of Droupadi, with great wrath, charged against Bhagadatta and afflicted him with sharp shafts. Unable to bear that onslaught, the elephant of Bhagadatta fell upon Pandava troops, curshing the Pandava troops under its feet, hurling them with its trunk and poking them with its tusks. Several soldiers died crushing under its feet. With a heart filled with joy, Suyodhana rushed aganst Bhimasena and shot several arrows aiming at the chest of Bhimasena, causing a great shock to him. Beholding this, Ghatotkaca came to the help of his father, Bhimasena. Sun was setting on western ghats. Ghatotkaca thought that it was a convenient time for miracle war. Ghatotkaca mounted a mighty elephant and stood infront of Kourava troops. Everyone was in an illusion that Indra was coming on his white elephant, Airavata. Great Rakshasa warriors surrounded him as if Dikpaalakas were around Indra. Ghatotkaca drove his elephant against Suyodhana and shot most powerful sharp shafts against him. Bhagadatta came in between. Ghatotkacha caught him by his neck and threw him away and killed his elephant. Again Kourava troops fled away. Ghatotkacha drove against Suyodhana. Beholding this Bhishma consulted Drona: "Acharya! Ghatotkacha is an expert in miracle war. He killed Bhagadatta and rushing against Suyodhana. We have to prevent him. In fact, Bhagadatta is an equivalent and capable warrior to fight against Ghatotkacha. But he was killed by Ghatotkacha. What to do?" so saying Bhishma began to shout "O Kourava soldiers! Stop.Dont flee. Suyodhana is in danger. Save him." cried aloud, waving his hand in air, calling back the troops. Bhishma drove his chariot against Ghatotkacha. All the kourava warriors rushed against Ghatotkacha. Beholding this, Yudhishtira, his brothers, Panchala troops, Matsya troops, prominent warriors in Pandava Army, all at a time, rushed against Kourava troops. The war took a violent turn. Bheeshma was massacring the Pandava troops. Ghatotkacha made a leonine roar. On hearing his roar, the elephants in Kourava troops fled away as if lion was charging against them. The sun was about to set. Bhishma thought that it was not convenient to fight with a demon like Ghatotkacha during night. He gave a signal to stop the war for that day. All the troops on both sides turned back to their respective places. As a sign of victory, Pandava troops were beating trupets, blowing horns and roaring like lions, returned to their camps. Thus, the fourth day war ended" said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. Having heard that his sons were utterly defeated on the fourth day war, Dhritarashtra was very much annoyed. "Sanjaya! you will always be telling about the victory of Pandavas and the defeat of my sons. While narrating the incidents of war, you will always be belittling my sons. What happened to Bheeshma, Drona, Salya and other warriors. Are they not fighting with Pandavas? Still Pandavas are gaining upperhand. What is the reason for the victory of Pandavas? Please tell me." asked Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra! there are no miracles with pandavas. Pandavas are virtuous and truth loving. But your sons are greedy, wicked, covetous. Endued with every kind of prosperity, and possessed of great strength, they never desist from battle, keeping their eyes on righteousness. And victory is there where righteousness is. It is for this, that the Pandavas are invincible in battle and always victorious.You have heard what Vidura said. Not only you, your son, Suyodhana, also asked Bheeshma, the same words. I will tell you the apt reply of Bheeshma: "Suyodhana! I told you many a time that Pandavas got the blessings and companionship of Sri Krishna. Therefore, nothing is impossible for Pandavas. There are none who knows about God, the Almighty. If anybody knows, nothing is impossible for him. Having known about Sri Krishna, and his power, Pandavas sought the refuge of Sri Krishna. But you paid a deaf year to the words of Sri Krishna. Once, While Brahma was sitting on a mountain to the north of Manasa Sarovar, he beheld an excellent air craft, blazing with effulgence. Having ascertained everything about it by meditation, joining his hands with restrained heart, Brahman, with delighted soul, made his salutations to the highest Divine Being. "O Lord! you are the Lord of this Unvierse. You are the glory of this universe. You are the supreme master of this universe. I was born to you. I am creating the entire universe. Under your protection, the entire univeris is flourishing. But, at present, the entire universe is trembling. Asuric tendency is increasing day by day. Time has come for your birth in Yadu vamsa. Your bosom friend is Nara. Yourself and your friend, Nara, should take birth on earth and vanquish all the asuras and daityas to lessen the burden of this earth." prayed Brahma. Narayana blessed Brahma in affirmative. Then Nara and Narayana went away. The celestial bodies, sages and saints waiting there asked Brahma "O Brahma! who are they?" Brahma told them thus: "They are nara and Narayana. I worship them always. I requested them to take birth on earth and they agreed. Those who do not care for them, treating them as human beings, will vanish. Those who worship them with great devotion and heed and follow their words, will prosper." Then Brahma disappeared. Suyodhana! I heard this story through Narada, Parasurama and Vyasa. On prior occasions also, sages and saints warned you not to bear grudge against Nara and Narayana. But, out of pride and arrogance, you did not heed their words. Even now it is not too late. You take refuge with Krishna and be friendly with Pandavas." said Bheeshma. Still, Suyodhana had no regard to the words of Bheeshma. O King Dhritarashtra! Have your son ever heed the words of virtuous people. O King! Listen! I will now narrate the incidents of fifth day war.". Sanjaya continued to narrate the important events of fifth day war. "On the fifth day, two armies on both sides approached each other for battle. Bheeshma arrayed his troops in the shape of Makara (crocodile), called Makara Vyooha. Equivalent to that, Pandava troops were arrayed n the shape of Syena (eagle). In the Syena Vyooha, the entire Pandava army was arranged in the following manner. At be beak of array, Bhimasena stood with his troops. At the place of eyes, Dhrushtadyumna and Sikhandi were standing. Satyaki with his troops formed as head of the eagle. Arjuna stood at neck part. Virata and Drupada Kings, along with their armies, formed as left wing and Kekaya Kings with their troops formed as right wing of the eagle. At the tail end, stood Nakula and Sahadeva, protecting Yudhishtira. Thus Syena vyooha was formed. On both sides, trumpets were beaten. Horns were blown. War started. Bhimasena, rushed into the Makara Vyooha, formed by Kourava troops and shattered it into pieces. Bhimasena encountered Bheeshma and showered numerous shafts on him. Bhishma cut those shafts in middle and in return shot several crueal shafts against Bhimasena. Arjuna rushed to that spot to help Bhimasena. On one side Bhimasena and the other side Arjuna were massacring the troops of Kouravas mercilessly. Beholding this, Suyodhana approached Drona. "O Dronacharya! I thought, today, yourself and Bhishma will see the end of Pandava troops. But it is reversed. Arjuna and Bhimasena are vanquishing our troops and you are remaining as silent spectactors." asked Suyodhana. "Suyodhana! Arjuna is a hero of great prowess. He is invincible. We are fighting with him to our might. It is not possible to conquer them in one day" said Drona. Drona proceeded against Pandava troops. Satyaki rushed against Drona and showered innumerable arrows on Drona. Drona released many darts from his bow against Satyaki. Bhimasena turned his chariot towards Satyaki and stood by his side. Salya arrived there and stood by the side of Drona. They are shooting arrows one against the other. In the meanwhile, sons of Droupadi, along with Abhimanyu along with their troops rushed to that spot in aid of Bhimasena. They attacked Bhishma and Drona. In between, Sikhandi, twanging his bow, jumped on Bhishma. Beholding Sikhandi, Bhsheema turned his chariot to other side. Suyodhana instigated Drona to attack Sikhandi. Drona launched several darts against Sikhandi. The war took a violent turn. With the dust risen from the earth due to the walking and running of elephants, horses, foot soldiers and movement of chariots, covered the sky. The intestines of horses formed into heaps. The dead bodies of elephants are scattered here and there, obstructing the movement of foot soldiers. The blood was flowing into canals. On one side Bhishma and the other side Bhimasena, standing in the front, were fighting with other.. At that time all your sons, at one time, rushed against Bhimasena. Their chariots charged against Bhimasena and surrounded him. Beholding this, Arjuna rushed to that spot and attacked your sons with his Gandeeva. Unable to resist Arjuna, all the kourava troops fled away and hid behind Bhishma. Having observed that his troops were fleeing away, waving his hand, Suyodhana arrived there. Along with him, the kings of Kambhoja, Sindhu, Gandhara, Souveera, Trigartha, and Kalinga along with their troops, rushed there and surrounded Bhima and Arjuna. Beholding this, Dharmaja directed Chedhi, Kaasa, KarooSa, and Pancala troops under the leadership of Dhrushtadyumna to rush to that spot. Thus the entire battle centered there. Vinda and Anuvinda attacked King of Kasi; Saidhava attacked Bhimasena; Vikarna attacked Sahadeva; Chitrasena attacked Sikhandi; Suyodhana attacked Virata, The kings of Trigarta attacked Nakula, Drona attacked Chekitana and Satyaki, Krupaacharya attacked Dhrushtadyumna, Abhimanyu attacked Salva, and Kekaya kings; Dhrushta ketu and Ghatotkaca attacked rest of your sons, Yudhishtira attacked Salya. Thus the battle became violent. The Astras and Sastras launched by several warriors were attacking with each other and flames are blazing out. Elephants dahsing against chariots are falling down; the chariots were hurled by those elephants with their trunks; foot soldiers crushed under the feet of horses and elephants; the entire battle field was filled with dead bodies. Beholding the prowess of Bhimasena, Bheeshma shot several sharp arrows against Bhimasena. Satyaki stood by the side of Bhimasena and shot several darts against Bheeshma. Bheeshma killed the charioteer of Satyaki. The horses tied to his chriots fled away. Not willing to fight with Satyaki who lost his chariot, Bheeshma turned to other side. Virata attacked Bheeshma and shot three arrows upon him. Bheeshma cut those arrows in between and shot ten arrows upon Virata. Arjuna joined Virata and attacked Bheeshma. Asvathaama intervened in between. Arjuna and Bheeshma and shot six arrows upon Arjuna. Arjuna broke the bow of Asvathaama. Asvathaama picked up another bow and showered innumerable arrows on Arjuna. Both Krishna and Arjuna were severely injured with the powerful arrows of Asvathaama. Excited with rage, Arjuna shot Asvathaama with powerful darts on his entire body. In the meanwhile, Bhimasena attacked Bheeshma. Suyodhana intervened in between Bhimasena and Bhishma and shot five powerful shafts upon Bhimasena. Bhimasena and Suyodhana were fighting with each other. Chitrasena, Purumitra and Bheeshma stood by the side of Suyodhana. Abhimanyu attacked them and shot seven shafts on Purumitra, seven shafts on Bheeshma and ten shafts on Chitrasena. All those shafts were cut by them in between. Purumitra showered sharp pointed shafts against Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu excited with wrath, shot most powerful and cruel darts against Chitrasena. He broke the bow of Chitrasena and killed the steeds. Beholding Abhimanyu fighting with great prowess, Lakshmana, son of Suyodhana, rushed against Abhimanyu. First Abhimanyu killed the steeds tied to the chariot of Lakshmana, then killed the charioteer. Lakshmana's chariot was broken. Lakshmana launched Shakti missilee upon Abhimanyu, which was destroyed by Abhimanyu in the sky. Abhimanyu incessantly poured arrow showers on Lakshmana piercing through his entire body. Kritavarma picked up Lakshmana on his chariot and took him away. Suyodhana encouraged his troops to fight against Abhimanyu. Bhoorishravasa, son of Somadatta rushed against Satyaki. Unable to attack the troops of Bhoorishravasa, the troops of Satyaki fled away. The sons of Satyaki attacked Bhoorishravasa and challenged him: "O Bhoorishravasa! we are here ready to fight with you. If you are courageous, choose one amongst us and show your vigour and valour." "I do not care even if you all come against me at one time." said Bhoorishravasa. All the sons of Satyaki showered sharp pointed arrows on Bhoorishravasa. Bhoorishravasa broke their bows, cut their heads, and made them to roll on battle field. All the kourava troops acclaimed Bhoorishravasa with joy and roared like lions. Beholding the mass killing of his sons, Satyaki was very much annoyed. Enraged with greatwrath, he drove his chariot on Kourava troops and killed them indiscriminately. Satyaki killed the steeds tied to the chariot of Bhoorishravasa and also killed his charioteer. Bhoorishravasa broke the chariot of Satyaki. Both of them jumped on the ground, picked up sharp swords and were fighting with each other. Bhimasena and Suyodhana picked up Satyaki and Bhoorishravasa on their respective chariots and took them away . Arjuna incessantly showered powerful arrows on the kourava troops and massacring them indiscriminately. As the sun was about to set, Bheeshma proclaimed that the war for the day ended. All the warriors on both sides retired to their resepctive places of stay. In this manner, the fifth day war ended" said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. Nextday morning, Arjuna asked Dhrushtadyumna to array the troops in the form of Makara Vyooha. Accordingly, Dhrushtadyumna arranged the troops as Makara (crocodile). Arjuna, Panchala Kings stood forming as the head of Makara. Nakula, Sahadeva along with their troops stood at the place of eyes. Bhimasena stood in forefront as mouth. Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi, Ghatotmacha arrayed as jaws. Along with Satyaki, Yudhishtira stood as neck. Along with Dhrushtadyumna, Virata along with his troops as backbone. The Kekaya Kings stood on left side and Dhrushtaketu, King of Karoosa stood on the right side. King Kuntibhoja, KingSataaneeka formed as Waist part and Sikhandi and Iraavanta stood at the tail end. In this manner, Makara vyooha was formed. Equivalent to Makara vyooha, Bheeshma arrayed Kouras troops in the shape of Krounca vyooha (standing in the shape of Krounca Bird). At the Beak stood Bheeshma and Drona along with their troops. Kripacharya and Asvathaama arrayed as Eyes of that bird. Krita varma stood at the place of head. King of Kambhoja and Bahlika formed in the shape of neck of that bird. Suyodhana accompanied by Soorasena stood at the place of stomache. Bhagadatta along with Souveera spread as the back of the bird. Vinda and Anuvinda stood as the left wing whereas Susarma along with his troops stood at the right wing. King of Yavana, Srutaayuvu, Bhoorisravasa stood at the tail end. In this manner, both Pandavas and Kouravas arrayed their troops and were ready for war.The sounds of trumpets, horns, and all kinds of war instruments rose to the sky. While Drona was trying to rush towards the neck of Makara, Bhimasena charged towards Drona and showered powerful shafts on the troops of Drona. The troops of Drona fled away. Enraged with wrath, Drona pierced powerful shafts in the body of Bhimasena. Bhimasena killed the charioteer of Drona. Drona was fighting with Bhima while driving his chariot himself. Bheeshma approached Drona and joined him. Unable to attack Bheeshma and Drona, the troops of Kekaya kings put a step backward. Beholding this, Bhimasena rushed into the Kourava troops and mass massacring them. Suyodhana was waving his hand and encouraging his forces to fight with Bhimasena. Likewise, Dharmaja also was waving his hand and instigating his forces to attack kourava troops. With renewed vigour, both the forces were combatting with each other." said Sanjaya, the 6th days war details, to Dhritarashtra. " Vidura! we got number of great warriors; still Pandavas are gaining upperhand. That our army should yet be slaughtered in battle is due only to predestined fate, what can it be but the result of Destiny? Indeed Vidura had often said what was both beneficial and desirable. But my wicked son Duryodhana would not accept it. Which is ordained by the Creator must happen as ordained and cannot be otherwise." said Dhritarashtra in a philosophical mood. "O King Dhritarashra! Your son is not a simpleton. He knows the pros and cons of war. Still he opted for war. Because you have supported the wickedness of your son on the day of dice game, this mass massacre happened. None to be blamed for this. Stop repenting for the past deeds and listen to the war details" continued Sanjaya. "The heroic Bhimasena, having with his sharp shafts, broken the mighty array of Kouravas, then came upon all the younger brothers of Duryodhana. Beholding your sons Dussasana, Dussaha, Jana, Jayatsena, Vikarna, Chitrasena,Sudrsana, Charucitra, Suvarma, and Dushkaruna at one place, excited with rage, Bhimasena rushed against them. Beholding Bhimasena in their midst, all your sons tried to kill him, as he was alone. They all accordingly surrounded Bhimasena. Bhimasena alighted his chariot and aksked his charioteer to keep the chariot there itself. He took his mace and fell upon your sons. He was killing the kourava troops mercilessly. He was beating the heads of elephants with his mace; breaking the chariots; killing the horses. He was moving everywhere with his mace. In the meanwhile, Dhrishtadyumna arrived there and found the empty chariot of Bhimasena. He was very much annoyed. He asked Visoka "What had happened to Bhimasena? Tell me?" "He is there fighting with Kouravas with his mace. He ordered me to remain here" said Visoka. Immediately, Dhrushtadyumna rushed towards Bhimasena. "Bhimasena! I am here. Go ahead. Show your prowess. I will kill the rest" so roaring Dhrushtadhumna rushed against the kourava troops. All your sons along with the kourava troops surrounded Dhrishtadyumna. Then Dhrushtadyumna launched a powerful Astra called "Pramohana". Under the influence of that Astra, all the kourava troops along with your sons lost consciousness. There was calm before storm. Bhimasena went near a pond and drank some fresh water. He returned back and joined Dhrushtadyumna. In another front, Drona was fighting with King Drupada. Drupada could not withstand the powerful arrows of Drona. He slipped away. Drona was searching for Dhrushtadyumna. Then he saw that all kourava troops and your sons were under the influence of Promahana Astra. Drona immediately rushed to that spot, launched Prajna Astra as anti- dote to Pramohana Astra. All your sons and their troops regained consciousness. Again your sons, with their troops, rushed against Bhimasena and Dhrushtadyumna. In the meanwhile, King Yudhishtira requested the five Kekaya kings, five sons of Droupadi, Abhimanyu along with Dhrishtaketu to rush towards Bhima sena and Dhrushtadyumna. Then all of them proceeded towards Bhimasena. With their help, Bhimasena was slaughtering the kourava troops mercilessly. Drona was incessantly pouring arrow showers on Pandava troops. Drona cut the bow of Dhrushtadyumna. He took another bow which was again cut by Drona. Drona also broke his chariot. Dhrushtadyumna jumped into the chariot of Abhimanyu. In the meanwhile, Suyodhana rushed against Bhimasena. The charioteer of Dhrushtadyumna brought another chariot. Dhrushtadyumna mounted that chariot and again began to fight with Drona. Visoka, the charioteer of Bhimasena, brought his chariot and stationed it near Bhimasena. Bhimasena jumped into his chariot and showered innumerable arrows against Suyodhana. Suyodhana also showered arrows in retaliation. Your sons were very eager and enthusiastic to catch Bhimasena and kill him. They all surrounded Bhimasena. Beholding this, Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi, the five Kekaya kings, Dhrushtaketu, all at a time, rushed against your sons. Bhimasena joined them. All of them, desirous of vanquishing your sons and their troops, fell upon them and chased them. While all your sons and their troops were fleeing away, Bhimasena, roaring like a lion, shouting "all of you will meet your death at my hands" chased them. Beholding this, Suyodhana instigated his troops to attack Bhimasena. By that time it was afternoon. There was a fiercest fight between Bhimasena and Suyodhana. In another front, Vikarna and Chitrasena rushed against Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu, in retaliation, killed the steeds of Vikarna and shot 20 sharp arrows. Vikarna got down from his chariot and climbed the chariot of Chitrasena. Both of them fled away. The five sons of Droupadi rushed in between Bhimasena and Suyodhana and injured Suyodhana with their powerful arrows. They shot five powerful arrows into the body of Suyodhana. In another front, Bhishma was fighting with Arjuna. In that part of the battle field headless trunks stood up by thousands, amongst the troops, of both the Kauravas and the Pandavas. The field of battle resembled an ocean of blood and the dead bodies of elephants look like the islands of that ocean, and the steeds its waves. On that day, Bhima decided to kill Suyodhana and put an end to the war. Bhimasena stood in front of Suyodhana: "O Suyodhana! That hour has come which I have desired for so many years. The grief of Kunti and revenge of Droupadi will be dispelled by today. You paid no heed to the words of Sri Krishna. Besides that, you instigated Ulooka to speak ill of us. I will show my prowess today. Show your prowess." so saying, with great speed, Bhimasena killed the horses tied to the chariot of Suyodhana. He also killed his charioteer. Bhimasena broke the bow of Suyodhana and broke the flag flying on his chariot. By the time Suyodhana takes another bow, Bhimasena shot ten powerful shafts piercing into the body of Suyodhana. He was seriously injured and fainted. In the meanwhile, Jayadhradha rushed to that spot with his troops. Kripacharya dragged Suyodhana upon his chariot and took him away. Abhimanyu and the five sons of Droupadi surrounded Jayadhradha. Chitrasena, Chitra, Chitraksha, Charuchitra, Sulochana, Nanda, Upananda, excited with rage, were fighting with Abhimanyu. The invincible Abhimanyu shot all of them, with five arrows each. Their bodies were drenched in blood. Vikarna, whose chariot was broken, mounted another chariot, rushed against Abhimanyu. Abhimanyu broke his bow and killed his charioteer and the steeds tied to the chariot. Abhimanyu also cut the flag. All your sons surrounded Abhimanyu all of a sudden. All the five sons of Droupadi intervened and fought with your sons. They broke the flags of all your sons. They incessantly showered arrows on your sons. Unable to withold that onslaught, your sons fled away. At that time, Sataaneeka, son of Nakula, along with his troops was helping the five kings of Kekaya. All of them were masssacring the Kourava troops. The sun was set. Bhishma announced that the war ended for that day. The troops on both sides retired to their respective places of stay." said Sanjaya the sixth day war details to Dhritarashtra. Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva, Second Chapter completed. Om Tatsat Om Tatsat Om Tatsat.
MAHA BHARAT BHISHMA PARVA THIRD CHAPTER. Saint Vaisampaayana told Janamejaya the story of Mahabharata. On hearing about the defeat of his son on the 6th day OF war, Dhritarashtra was very much annoyed and asked Sanjaya to tell him what had happened later. Sanjaya continued to say: "On 6th day night, your son, Suyodhana, went to the place of stay of Bhishma and asked him: "O my grandsire! Day by day, our troops are diminishing. Today, I was defeated by Bhimasena and fainted. What more insult will be there in my life? I earnestly requested you to defeat Pandavas. But you are unable to do anything. I do not know how they got such an enormous strength and bravery" said Suyodhana. "O Suyodhana! why you are blaming me like this? Did I keept quiet without taking part in war? How many times, the enemies fled away on seeing my chariot. I have been telling you since beginning that it is not an easty task to conquer pandavas. You have not cared for my words. Dont be disheartened. I will fight and gain victory for you." said Bhishma. Having been pacified with the words of Bhishma, Suyodhana went back to his place of stay and slept peacefully. Next day morning, the troops on both sides were arrayed in the battle field, one against the other. Bhishma arrayed his army in the form of Mandala Vyooha.(In the shape of a circle). Suyodhana stood in the middle of the circle. Rest of your sons stood on either side of Suyodhana. Beholding Mandala Vyooha, Yudhishtira asked Dhrushtadyumna to array their troops in the shape of Diamond (Vajra vyooha). Both the troops were ready for war. The sounds of Trumpets, horns and conches rose to the sky. The two armies charged against each other. Drona attacked Virata; Asvathaama attacked Sikhandi; Duryodhana attacked Dhrushtadyumna; Salya, the King of Madra, attacked Nakula and Sahadeva; Vinda and Anuvinda attacked Yudhamanyu; and several car-warriors attacked Arjuna. Bhimasena attacked Kritavarma; Abhimanyu attacked Chitrasena, Dussaasana, and Vikarna; Ghatotkacha attacked Bhagadatta; Satyaki attacked Alambasa; Dhrishtaketu attacked Bhoorisravasa; Chekitana attacked Kripacharya; Yudhishtira attacked Srutaayu and the rest of the Kings attacked Bhishma. There was a fierce battle between both sides. Arjuna was wielding Gaandeeva and shooting arrows with both hands on kourava troops. All of them attacked Arjuna at a time and showering arrows both on Krishna and Arjuna. All your sons applauded them. Excited with rage, Arjuna launched Indra Astra. That Indra Astra cut all the arrows shot by Kourava warriors into pieces. It killed all the horses tied to the chariots. That Astra churned the kourava warriors like Mandhara Mountain in the sea. Unable to retaliate, all the Kourava troops fled away and sought refuge behind Bhishma. The Kings of Trigartha and other kings also fled away along with their troops. Bhishma alone attacked Arjuna. Beholding this, Suyodhana waved his hand, calling back his troops "Why you are fleeing away. Bhishma alone is fighting. Will you all remain as silent spectators. I have not seen such a cowards like you. Come back. Fight along with Bhishma." Suyodhana rallied his troops and asked them to go in aid of Bhishma. At another front, Drona broke the bow and the flag of Virata. King Virata picked up another bow and shot three sharp arrows on the body of Drona. King Virata also killed the chariot driver of Drona. With another four arrows, he broke the bow of Drona. Drona was enraged with wrath. With eight arrows, Drona killed the steeds tied to the chariot of Virata and broke his chariot. King Virata immediately mounted the chariot of his son, Shankhu. Along with his son, he showered numerous arrows on Drona. Drona launched a divine astra upon Sankhu. That Astra pierced into the heart of Sankhu. Sankhu fell down on the chariot, leaving his bow and arrows and died. Beholding the death of his own son, King Virata fled away along with his army. At another front, Sikhandi shot three arrows on the forehead of Asvathaama. Asvathama cut those arrows in the middle and showered powerful arrows on Sikhandi and killed his steeds and chariot driver and broke his bow and flag. Sikhandi jumped from his chariot, picked up a sword to ward off the arrows shot by Sikhandi. Asvathama cut the sword of Sikhandi. Sikhandi mounted the chariot of Satyaki. In another front, Drushtadyumna covered your son, Suyodhana, with innumerable shafts. But your son, without any agitation, cut them into pieces in the middle, and in return, pierced Dhrushtadyumna, with sharp shafts. Dhrushtadyumna cut the bow of your son. While your son was picking up another bow, he cut that bow also. Dhrushtadyumna killed the steeds and broke the chariot of your son. Suyodhana picked up a sword and jumped to the ground. Dhrushtadyumna also took up another sword and attacked Suyodhana. In the meanwhile, Sakuni arrived there and your son, Suyodhana, mounted his chariot. Satyaki was fighting with Alambasa. He shot most cruel shafts on Alambasa. Alambasa with an arrow, resembling crescent moon, cut the bow of Satyaki and pierced his body with sharp arrows. At that time, Satyaki launched Indra Astra which vanished all the miracles of Alambasa and made him to suffer a lot. Unable to attack Indra Astra, Alambasa fled away. Then Satyaki rushed against the Kourava forces. In another front, Kritavarma was fighting with Bhimasena. Bhimasena killed the horses tied to the chariot of Kritavarma and also killed the chariot driver. Bhimasena pierced the entire body of Kritavarma with sharp arrows. Then Kritavarma mounted the chariot of Vrishaka. Leaving Kritavarma, Bhimasena rushed against the Kaurava forces with great speed." said Sanjaya, the events of war. Dhritarashtra stopped him and said: "O Sanjaya! You are always speaking about the deaths and defeat of our side. You never said about the defeat and killings on the side of Pandavas. You always speak that Pandavas are cheerful and victorious. What is this mystery?" said Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra! Even the Kourava troops are also fighting according to their might and courage. But Pandavas troops penetrated into Kourava troops as the rivers are rushing into the sea. Your troops were unable to resist them and fled away. It is not their fault. It is of no use to repent now for the faults committed earlier. Any how, I will narrate the incidents of war. Please listen." Sanjaya continued to narrate the incidents of war. "Yudhamanyu covered Vinda and Anuvinda, Kings of Avanti, with his arrows. Yudhamanyu broke the chariot of Aruvinda. Anuvinda mounted the chariot of Vinda. Yudhamanyu killed their chariot driver with one arrow. On the death of chariot driver, the steeds tied to the chariot drageed the chariot to another side. Their troops fled away. At another front, Bhadatta was fighting with Pandava troops and was chasing them. Ghatotkacha entered the war field and instilled confidence in the Pandava troops, as a result, all the Pandava troops rallied to the war field. Ghatotkacha attacked Bhagadatta and showered innumerable arrows on Bhagadatta. Bhagadatta broke all those arrows and shot Ghatotkacha with 14 steep shafts. He also broke the chariot of Ghatotkacha. Then Ghatotkacha launched Sakti Astra upon Bhagadatta. But Bhagadatta broke it into pieces and shot Ghatotkacha with most powerful arrows. Unable to resist him, Ghatotkacha ran away. Mounting on his elephant, Bhagadatta rushed against Pandava troops. At another place, Nakula and Sahadeva were fighting with Salya. Salya broke the chariot of Nakula. Nakula mounted the chariot of Sahadeva. Sahadeva shot one sharp cruel shaft on Salya which struck him on his chest, as a result, he fainted. Salya fell down. His charioteer drove chariot away. Beholding this, Nakula and Sahadeva roared like lions and blew their conches. It was noon at that time. At another front, Yudhishtira shot nine arrows on Srutaayuvu. Srutaayuvu cut them in the middle and shot seven arrows on Yudhishtira. Yudhishtira grew angry. He shot one sharp shaft in the shape of Varaha Karna (ear of a pig) which pierced into his heart. With antoher shaft he broke the flag post. Srutaayuvu shot seven shafts against Dharmaja. Dharmaja killed the horses tied to the chariot; broke his bow, cut his flag. The body of Srutaayuvu was drenched in blood. Beholding this, all the Kourava troops fled away. Pandava troops acclaimed Yudhshtira. In another front, Chekitana and Krupacharya were combatting with each other. Krupacharya with his sharp arrows cut the bow of Chekitana and also killed the horses tied to his chariot. Chekitana took out his mace and jumped out of his chariot. He broke the chariot of Krupacharya with his mace and killed the horses. Then, Krupacharya, shot Chekitana with 16 shafts fitted with iron point heads. Chekitana hurled his mace towards Krupacharya. Krupacharya cut the mace in the middle. Chekitana got down from his chariot, took out a sharp sowrd. Krupacharya also took out a sword and jumped against Chekitana. Both had a dual fight with their swords and both fell down unconscious. Beholding this, Sakuni from Kourava side and Karakarshana from Pandava side took them away in their respective chariots. At another place, Drishtaketu was fighting fiercely with Bhoorisravasa. Dhrishtaketu shot nine sharp arrows upon Bhoorishravasa. In return, Bhoorishravasa killed the horses and shot his body with sharp arrows. Unable to fight with Bhoorishravasa, Dhrishtaketu mounted the chariot of Sataaneeka and moved to another place. At another front, there was a big fight between Abhimanyu on one side and Dussasana, Vikarna and Chitrasena on other side. Abhimanyu broke the chariots of all those warriors but did not kill them and spared them for the sake of Bhimasena. Beholding this, Bhishma arrived there with all his troops and joined Dussaasana. Both Dussaasana and Bhishma were fighting with Abhimanyu. Now Abhimanyu was fighting alone with those warriors. Looking at this, Arjuna told krishna: "Krishna! Along with Bhishma, all the main car-warriors(Radhikas) are at one place. Let us go there." Krishna drove the chariot against Bhishma. On the way, King of Trigartha attacked Arjuna. "Oh. King of Trigartha, Susharma! Welcome. I heard that you are a great warrior in Kourava Army. Today you have to fight with me without fear." requested Arjuna. Excited with rage and desirous of vanquishing Susharma, Arjunt shot numerous arrows against Susarma. The entire Kourava Army attacked Arjuna. Pandava troops also arrived there in aid of Arjuna. There was a fierce battle between both the troops. Arjuna was killing the horses, breaking the chariots, and cutting the flags tied to the chariots, with his sharp arrows. Arjuna was vigorously moving in the battle field, mercilessly killing the kourava forces, as none was there to attack him. It was afternoon at that time. The King of Trigartha provoked his 32 warriors(chakra rakshakas) to fight with Arjuna. Arjuna killed all those 32 warriors with 62 sharp pointed shafts. Beholding this, The King of Trigartha himself went against Arjuna. In the meanwhile, Sikhandi and other warriors joined Arjuna and fought with King of Trigartha. Though Suyodhana and Saindhava were standing before him, Arjuna never looked at them. He drove his chariot towards Bhishma. Looking at this, Yudhishtira who was, till then, fighting with Salya, left that place and proceeded towards Arjuna along with Bhima, Nakula and Sahadeva, with a view to help Arjuna. Bhishma was fighting with all Pandavas. Your son, Suyodhana, along with Saidhava, rushed against Pandavas. From another side, Sala, Salya, Chitrasena and Krupacharya attacked Pandavas. In between, Sikhandi intruded and tried to fight with Bhishma. But Bhishma just broke his bow and turned his chariot to other side. Observing this, Yudhishtira provoked Sikhandi "O Sikhandi! Have you forgotten your vow that you will kill Bhishma. Bhishma is before you. Fight with him". Yudhishtira cried aloud. On hearing those words of Yudhishtira, Sikhandi incessantly poured arrow showers on Bhishma. Beholding this, Salya launched Agneyastra on Sikhandi. As a reply to Agneyastra, Sikhandi launched Varunaastra on Salya. Both Astras were nullified. Bhishma broke the bow of Dharmaja and cut the flag. Bhimasena got down from his chariot, armed with a huge mace, rushed against Suyodhana. Saindhaya showered 500 sharp pointed shafts on Bhimasena. Bhimasena cut those arrows with his mace into pieces. Bhimasena killed horses of Saindhava and broke his chariot. Saindhaya mounted another chariot and fled away. On seeing his defeat, his troops also fled away. Suyodhana, while continuing the fight with Bhimasena, tryied to stop his troops from running. Chitrasena intervened and launched Sakti arrow on Bhimsena. Bhimasena hurled his mace towards Chitrasena. That mace after cutting the Sakti launched by Chitrasena, was whirling in the sky. Looking at that mace, all the Kourava troops were frightened, as if it was falling on their heads. Inspite of the warnings of Suyodhana, the Kourava troops were running away with fear. That mace was coming down with great speed towards Chitrasena. Chitrasena jumed down from his chariot and ran away. Then that mace broke the chariot of Chitrasena and killed the horses. Vikarna rescued Chitrasena by taking him up on his chariot. Bhishma killed the steeds tied to the chariot of Dharmaja and pierced innumerable arrows into the body of Dharmaja. Dharmaja launched Sakti arrow on Bhishma. Bhishma cut that into pieces. Dharmaja mounted the chariot of Nakula and Sahadeva. Bhishma incessantly showered sharp pointed arrows on Nakula and Sahadeva. Dharmaja waved his hand and called all the warriors on his side and provoked them to fight with Bhishma. All those warriors, at a time, rushed against Bhishma. The invincible Bhishma, was fighting with all those warriors. Bhishma was cutting the heads of the soldiers on Pandava side as fruits from palm trees. Bhishma was speedily moving in the Pandava army like a lion in the forest and was massacring them mercilessly. Pandavas, unabel to Attack Bhishma, were gazing at him. In the meanwhile, Sikhandi intervened and stood before Bhishma and launched most cruel shafts against Bhishma. Bhishma, did not care for him. He never looked at his face, turned to other side, and was fighting with Pandavas and their army. At another place, Satyaki and Dhrushtadyumna together were slaughtering the Kourava forces. Vinda and Anuvinda attacked them with great vigour. They killed the horses tied to the chariot of Dhrushtadyumna. Dhrushtadyumna mounted the chariot of Satyaki. Beholdinng this, Dharmaja rushed to that spot along with his forces to help Dhrushtadyumna. Your son, Suyodhana, waved his hand to his troops to attack Dharmaja. Accompanied by Bhishma and Drona, Suyodhana also attacked Dharmaja from another side. Arjuna also rushed to that spot to help his brother, Dharmaja. Drona shot Arjuna with sharp edged arrows. With renewed vigour, Kourava forces rushed against Pandava forces. Dharmaja provoked his forces to fight against Kourava forces. There was a fierce battle between both the forces. It was afternoon at that time. By conquering Susarma and Saindhava, Arjuna and Dharmaja were in a joyous mood. Bheemasena was always by the side of his brother, Arjuna, and slaughtered the Kourava army. As the darkness plunged in, both sides stopped war and departed to their respective places of stay. Thus the seventh day war ended" said Sanjaya to Dhrutarashtra. On the morning of eighth day, Bhishma arrayed his forces in the form of Kurma (tortoise). Having come to know about this through his spies, Dharmaja asked Dhrushtadyumna to think about a suitable vyuha. Accordingly, Dhrushtadyumna arrayed Pandava troops in the form of Srungataka vyooha. Both the forces were ready for the eighth day battle. Great was the uproar heard there, resembling the loud uproar of the ocean itself. The high sounds of Trumpets, horns were heard. The eighth day war began. The dust rose in the battle field due to the movement and running of chariots, elephants, horses and foot soldiers, covered the sky. Bhishma roared like a lion and rushed against the Pandava army and began to massacre them. Unable to stand before Bhishma, Pandava forces fled away. Excited with rage, Bhimasena attacked Bhishma. With one steep arrow, he killed the charioteer of Bhishma. The horses tied to the chariot of Bhishma, dragged the chariot to the otherside. The Pandava troops were overwhelmed with joy and acclaimed Bhimasena. Your son, Sunabha, attacked Bhimasena. Bhiamsena, cut the head of Sunabha, with one sharp arrow and roared like a lion. Beholding the death of their brother, Sunabha, your sons, Adityaketu, Aparajitha, Bahvaasi, Pandita, Kundadhaara, Visaalasha, Mahodara, all at a time fell upon Bhimasena with great anger and shot innumerable shafts into the body of Bhimasena from all sides. Bhimasena, launched sharp edged arrows in the crescent shape and consigned all of them to the abode of Yama. The rest of your sons were very much frightened. "Bhimasena may redeem his vow even today itself. the words of Vidura may become true" they thought. Unable to stand before Bhimasena, they all fled away. Your son, Suyodhana, instigated his forces to fight with Bhimasena. He approached Bhishma: "O my beloved Grandsire! Do you know what is happening. Are you keeping quiet while Bhima is killing all my brothers? You are behaving like an indifferent spectator. I think you are favouring the slaughter of my brothers at the hands of Bhima."said Suyodhana in a distressed mood. Bhishma also was very much annoyed. "Suyodhana! I told you many a time that even Lord Siva cannot conquer Pandavas. Not only me, none can save any of your brothers from death, if they attack Bhimasena. There is no use of feeling grief and sorrow. The only way left for us is, if we win the war, we will rule this universe, otherwise, we will enjoy heavenly plealsures. We are all fighting with our might. We may win the war." pacified Bhishma. On hearing the words of Sanjaya, Dhrutarashtra said: "What a dreadful fate it is! Even in the presence of Bhishma and Drona, my sons were killed by Bhima. What can I do? Without heeding my words, Suyodhana invited his brothers' slaughter. There is no use of thinking about past. Continue." said Dhritarashtra with terribel grief. Beholding the deaths of your sons, Bhishma enraged with anger. He rushed against Bhimasena. Dharmaja waved his hand and signalled Dhrushtadyumna, Sikhandi, Satyaki to speedily come there to help Bhimasena. Immediately, all of them rushed to that spot. All the great car-warriors, incited by Suyodhana, attacked Arjuna. With the help of Chekitana and sons of Droupadi, Arjuna attacked the Kourava forces. Abhimanya along with Ghatotkacha were fighting with Kourava forces and massacring them. Dronacharya, riding on his chariot in zig zag manner, incessantly showered steep arrows on the Panchala forces. Bhimasena was killing the elephant forces with his sharp edged arrows. Nakula and Sahadeva, with their swords, were destroying the cavalry in kourava forces. At this juncture, Iravanta, son of Arjuna through Uloochi, daughter of a Serpant King, with his cavalry, surrounded the kourava forces. Beholding this, the six brothers of Sakuni viz., Suka, Sarmavanta, Vrushaka, Arja, Gaja, Gavaksha, wi their cavalry attacked Iravanta. There was a dreadful battle between them. They all together killed the horse of Iravanta. Iravanta jumed on the ground and was fighting with a sword in hand. The brothers of Sakuni also jumed to the ground and were fighting with Iravanta. Iravanta was wielding his sword in different angles and warding off the blows delivered by the brothers of Sakuni. Iravanta mercilessly cut all the brothers of Sakuni into 12 pieces. Beholding the death of the brothers of Sakuni, Suyodhana alerted Alambasa "Alambasa! It appears that Iravanta may vanish our army in no time. You control his prowess and kill him." The Rakshasa warrior, Alambasa, miraculously created an illusory cavalry force like that of Iravanta. Both the cavalry forces attacked each other and vanished. Now Iravanta remained alone. Iravanta cut the sword and bow of Alambasa into pieces. Then Alambasa speedily rose up into the welkin, confounding with his illusion. He shot many miraculous arrows against Iravanta. As Iravanta also was an expert in miracle war, he also rose up into the welkin and began to fight with Alambasa. With his steep powerful arrows, Iravanta cut the head of Alambasa. Another head rose in that place. He did not die. Iravanta created dreadly poisonous cobras. Alambasa transformed himself into an eagle and killed those cobras. Then he transformed into human and cut the head of Iravanta with his sword. Iravanta fell down and died. It was midday. Beholding the death of Iravanta, Ghatotkacha, along with his Rakshasa army, charged against Kourava army. Armed with a blazing spear upraised in his hand, Ghatotkacha was killing the elephants, horses and foot solders mercilessly. Looking at this, Suyodhana and the King of Vanga, with their resepctive elephant forces, rushed against Ghatotkacha. Ghatotkacha was highly inflamed with rage. He picked up a sword and began to cut the tusks and trunks of elephants, heads of horses into pieces. Suyodhana himself jumped into the field. With his most powerful sharp arrows, Suyodhana killed Vegavanta, Vidyutjihva, Bahvaasi and others who were the most trusted warriors of Ghatotkacha. He pierced innumerable darts into the body of Ghatotkacha. Ghatotkacha picked up a bow and showered powerful arrows on Suyodhana. Looking at Suyodhana, Ghatotkacha said: "O Suyodhana! having forgotten truthfulness and virtues, you have insulted my parents, Pandavas and Droupadi. Now be ready to wreak the dire consequences." So saying Ghatotkacha shot many arrows resembling cobras into the body of Suyodhana. Suyodhana cut them in the middle and shot 20 fiercest arrows upon Ghatotkacha. In retaliation, Ghatotkacha launched Sakti arrow on Suyodhana. The King of Vanga intervened in between. The Sakti hit the elephant of King of Vanga and pierced into its body. The King ofVanga jumped on the ground and fled away. His forces also fled away along with him. Now Suyodhana alone attacked Ghatotkacha. He launched all kinds of Astras and Sastras, known to him. But all are in vain before the power of illusion of Ghatotkacha. Then Suyodhana launched a great astra on Ghatotkacha. Ghatotkacha smashed that Astra also in air and roared like a lion. Bhishma realised that Suyodhana was in danger. He raised hue and cry "Save Suyodhana from Ghatotkacha" and alerted all his troops. On hearing those cries, Drona, Asvathaama, Krupacharya, Chitrasena, Bruhadbala, Bahlika, King of Avanthi, Bhoorisravasa, Sandhava, Somadatta, Vivimsati, Vikarna, all at a time, rushed towards Suyodhana to save him. All of them were combatting with Ghatotkacha. Ghatotkacha, excited with rage and desirous of vanquishing them all, shooting most powerful arrows against them. He killed their charioteers, cut the bows and broke the chariots. All are annoyed. Dronacharya along with 12 Maharadhas, at a time, surrounded Ghatotkacha and launched Mahastras from all sides. Ghatotkacha rose to the sky and was using his power of illusion. Beholding this, Dharmaja called Bhimasena and said: "Bhima! here Arjuna is fighting with Bhishma. You proceed towards Ghatotkacha and help him". Immediately, Bhimasena, roaring like a lion, drove his chariot towards Ghatotkacha. Suyodhana shot one crescent shaped powerful dart upon Ghatotkacha. He also cut the bow of Bhima and shot another terrible shaft piercing the chest of Bhima. Bhimasena fainted. Beholding this, sons of Droupadi attacked Suyodhana. Meanwhile, Abhimanyu, Ghatotkacha joined them. All of them poured incessant showers of arrows on Suyodhana. Krupacharya, Bahlika, Bhoorisrava and other Kuru warriors, joined Suyodhana and attacked the sons of Droupadi. Bhimasena regained his consciousness. Again he rushed against the enemy. Drona showered innumerable sharp arrows against Bhima. Bhima cut them into pieces and in return shot a powerful arrow which pierced into the chest of Drona. Drona fell down and fainted. Beholding the fate of his father, Asvathaama along with Suyodhana rushed to that spot and attacked Bhimasena. They shot powerful darts upon Bhima. Bhima, holding his mace on his shoulder, got down from his chariot, and cut all the arrows shot by Suyodhana into pieces. Drona regained consciousness. He took out his bow and again showered innumerable arrows on Bhimasena. On seeing this, Ghatotkacha, Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi arrived at that spot to help Bhimasena. One Neela, a friend of Bheemasena, attacked Asvathaama. Asvathama inflicted serious injuries to Neela with his sharp shafts. Ghatotkacha showered innumerable arrows on Asvathama. Drona shot most dreadful arrows against Bhimasena's body. Ghatotkacha began to use his power of illusion. He created a scene with his power of illusion, to the vision of Kourava troops, as if Suyodhana, Kripacharya, Drona, and other Maha Radhas were seriously injured and fell unconscious with their bodies drenching in blood. Believing it to be true, all the Kourava troops were frightened and ran away. Bhishma realised that it was nothing but the illusion. Bhishma cried aloud: "Stop! dont run! This is illusion. None are injured. All are safe" alerted the Kourava troops. But nobody cared for his words. All were running hither and thither with terrible fear. Beholding this, with a sorrowful face, Suyodhana approached Bhishma. "When youself and Drona were very much present, all this had happened. What more insinuation will be there for me than this. I intend to fight with Pandavas alone. I will decide either to survive or vanish today itself."said Suyodhana. "Suyodhana! How can you attack Pandavas alone without anybody's help. They are all nothing but games of illusion played by Rakshasas. We are here to put an end to it. Dont fear." said Bhishma. Bhishma called Bhagadatta and said; "Bhagadatta! None of these illusins will work out before you. Go and fight with Ghatotkacha" said Bhishma. Bhagadatta mounted his royal elephant, Suprateeka, and rushed against Ghatotkacha. Beholding this, all the Kourava forces returned back to the battle field and began to fight with Pandava forces. Ghatotkacha also mounted another elephant resembling a hill and attacked Bhagadatta. Bhimasena, Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi were by the side of Ghatotkacha. Ghatotkacha shot the elephant of Bhagadatta with sharp edged Bhalla arrows. Bhagadatta cut those arrows and killed the horses tied to the chariot of Ghatotkacha and showered numerous arrows on Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi. Bhagadatta killed all the horses of their chariots, broke their chariots and slaughtered their army. Bhagadatta was moving in the battle field vigorously like Mandhara mountain churning the milk sea. The mighty elephant, Suprateeka was crushing the soldiers under its feet, holding them with its trunk and throwing them to all sides. Several soldiers, horses were being crused under its feet and died. While Bhagadatta was fighting with Pandava forces in the above manner, Suyodhana, Drona, Kripacharya and other Maha Radhis were helping him. Pandavas could not withstand his prowess. Beholding this, Dharmaja, waving his hand to his troops, instigated them to attack Bhagadatta. He along with Arjuna and King of Panchala attacked Bhagadatta. Arjuna, blowing his conch Devadatta, rushrd against the kourava forces and massacring them. At that time, Bhimasena informed Arjuna about the death of Iravanta. Arjuna was very much annoyed. "Where is the dead body?" asked Arjuna. Bhima led him to the place where Iravanta was laid. Arjuna saw the dead body of his son, Iravanta whose head was cut, with tearful eyes. Arjuna was overwhelmed with grief and wept loudly. "What a tragic incident? Now I realise why Dharmaja tried to restore peace always. I do not know for whose sake we are fighting? Why this mass massacre?" Arjuna cried aloud. Looking at Arjuna, Krishna smiled. Arjuna could understand what is passing on in the mind of Krishna. "Having heard my divine words at the beginning of war, still you are weeping for your kith and kin.". Arjuna wiped out his tears. "No. Nothing. I have to discharge my Kshatriya Dharma. Krishna! let us go. I have to discharge my duty" said Arjuna. Krishna, with a smiling face, drove the chariot against the Kourava forces. Bhagadatta, Kripacharya, King of Trigartha attacked Arjuna and showered arrows incessantly from all sides. Satyaki intervened in between. Kritavarma and Bahlika attacked Satyaki. Bhimasena attacked Drona. Drona and Suyodhana were fighting with Bhimasena together. Bhimasena was cutting all the arrows launched by Drona and Suyodhana into fragments and in return shot many powerful darts against them. Bhimasena killed your sons, Kundabhedhi, Aradhrushya, Kanakadwaja, Viravi, Subaha, Deergabhaahu, Dheerghalochana with his powerful astras. Rest of your sons fled away. Bhimasena entered the Kourava troops with great prowess and was slaughtering the kourava army indiscriminately. Beholding this, your son Suyodhana was instigating his troops to charge against Bhishma. Pandava troops, with greatest enthusiasm, were rushing against Kourava troops. Blood was flowing like water in canals. The ornaments on the dead bodies of warriors were shining in the light of evening sun. Darkness plunged down. Both sides stopped war for that day and retired to their respective places of stay. Your son, Suyodhana, was very much annoyed with the death of his brothers. He was not inclined to go back to his residence. He asked Dussasana to send for Karna and Sakuni. Dussaasana was present before him along with Karna and Sakuni in no time. Looking at Karna, Suyodhana spoke thus: "Karna! My grand father Bhishma, Our Guru Drona and Kripacharya were keeping themselves neutral, though they are fighting on our side. They are not inclined to kill Pandavas. There are no much casualities on the side of Pandavas but our army is diminishing day by day. I do not know what to do.." said Suyodhana. Having heard those words, Karna who was always very eager to fight against Pandavas, said: "Suyodhana! Ask Bhishma to desist from war. I will jump into action and kill Pandavas within a day. "Dussaasana! Let us go to Bhishma and convey this message to him." So saying, Suyodhana and Dussaasana went to Bhishma. They both bowed before the feet of their Grandsire, Bhishma and sat by his side. "O my Grandsire Bhishma! Having trusted you in abundance, I waged war against Pandavas. I do not know what is happening now. You are capable of conquering divine forces and Danavas. Though, you have been fighting with Pandavas since eight days, none of the Pandavas was killed. Atleast, you have not killed Arjuna. But I am losing my brothers, ten per day. I cannot say more than this. I am praying with folded hands. Kindly stay away from war and give an opportunity to Karna to fight. This is my huble request" requested Suyodhana. Having heard those words resembling sharp edged arrows, Bhishma was very much annoyed. He kept quiet for some time. "Suyodhana! Arjuna is not an orindary warrior. You should know it. He conquered Indra and got Khandava forest burnt by Agni. He fought with Lord Siva and acquired Pasupata. When this Karna fled away, leaving you and your relatives to your fate, this Arjuna fought with Gandharva and got yourself and your men released. It is this Arjuna who conquered all of us and returned back with cows of Virata. There are so many victories in his account, which you and I have heard already. I have fought with Pandavas all these eight days without sparing any of my efforts. Still, I am hearing such harsh words from your mouth. You unnecessarily bore grudge against Pandavas, without any reason. Let it be. Without wasting time with these words, show your prowess against Pandavas tomorrow. I will reiterate my words once again. I cannot conquer Arjuna and I do not fight with Sikhandi. Except these two, anybody who comes before me will never survive. I along with my army will fight with King Drupada, King Virata, Yadavas and their forces. Yourself, your brothers and followers will fight with Pandavas, their sons and their army. What will you gain by coming over here at this dead of night and hurting me with your harsh words like this. Any how, You will taste my prowess tomorrow in battle field. You can go." said Bhishma. Having satisfied with the words of Bhishma, Suyodhana along with Dussaasana returned back to his place of stay. Next day morning, both sides were ready for the ninth day war. Before going to war, Suyodhana addressed the warriors on his side: "O best among the car-warriors, yesterday night, Bhishma promised me that he will vanish entire Panchala and Matsya army, and conquer Pandavas in the war. We all should help him to discharge his vow." said Suyodhana sarcastically. With those words, Bhishma was enraged with great wrath but he controlled himself. Observing his facial expressions, Suyodhana told Dussaasana: "Dussasana! Yourself and your troops shall always be by the side of our Grandsire and protect him. Keep 22,000 eminent car-warriors always at his disposal." ordered Suyodhana. Then Suyodhana addressed Drona, Kripacharya and Asvathaama: "O Great Warriors! You are all aware that Bhishma will never fight with Sikhandi. It is his vow. Therefore, we should take all care that Sikhandi shall not stand before him." Bhishma arrayed Kourava troops in the form of Sarvatobhadra vyooha. Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Salya, Sakuni, Sudakshina, Saindhava, all your sons, were made to stand in the front. Drona, Bhoorisravasa, Bhagadatta were made to stand on right side. Somadatta, Asvathaama, Vinda and Anuvinda were made to stand on left side. Srutaayuvu was standing at the rear end and Suyodhana accompanied by The King Trigartha was standing in the middle. Having known about this vyooha, Dharmanandana told Dhrushtadhumna thus: "O Dhrushtadyumna! Have you seen the array of troops arranged by my Grandsire, Bhishma. Today we have to fight with Bhishma, keeping Sikhandi in our front. Array our troops in that manner" asked Dharmanandana. Accordingly Dhrushtadyumna arrayed Pandava troops in a counter vyuha. Satyaki and King of Virata were standing on the right side. Abhimanyu, Kings of Panchala, Kekaya were standing on the left side. Yudhishtira along with Nakula, Sahadeva, sons of Droupadi was standing in the middle. Chekitana, Kuntibhoja were standing on the rear side. Sikhandi was kept in the forefront. On either side of Sikhandi, stood Bhimasena and Ghatotkacha on one side, and Arjuna on the other side. Rest of the Maharadhas and Athiradhas stood around them. Like this, the Pandava troops were arrayed for the ninth day war. Both sides were ready with their array of troops for war. The sounds of kettle drums, blowing of conches, horns rose to the sky. War began. Abhimanyu rushed against the Kourava vyooha. He darted through the Kourava forces like a spark of fire in a bundle of cotton. He was massacring the kourava troops. He is driving his chariot in a circular form and attacking Drona, Kripa and Saindhava with great prowess. Beholding this, Suyodhana alerted Alambasa: "Alambas! look at Abhimanyu. He is falling on our troops like a thunderbolt. You have to control him. Attack him and kill him." said Suyodhana. Alambas along with his Rakshasa forces fell upon Abhimanyu with great fury. He was chasing Pandava forces. Pandava forces were fleeing away like dry leaves flying in the air. Sons of Droupadi arrived there to help Abhimanyu. All of them were slaughtering the Rakshasa army. Alambas with great wrath, showered innumberable arrows on sons of Pandavas. In return, Abyhimanyu incessantly poured arrow showers on Alambas, as a result, Alambas fainted. Next moment, he regained consciousness. Again he began to shower sharp edged darts, great in number, on Abhimanyu and sons of Droupadi. All the bows shot by the sons of Droupadi were broken and their flags were cut. He shot each five arrows on all of them. Beholding the ferocious attack of Alambas, Abhimanyu shot dreadful arrows on Alambas penetrating into his body, breaking his coat of mail. . For a while, both sides stopped war to witness the dual combat between Alambas and Abhimanyu. "Alambas is well versed in miracle war. Abhimanyu is an expert in launching divine astras and sastras. Who will gain upperhand, we have to see" thought the great warriors on either side. Abhimanya and Alambas were fighting like Devendra and Vritrasura. Both their bodies drenched with blood. With his power of illusion, Alambas plunged darkness in the battle field. Abhimanyu launched Bhaskara Astra and put an end to that darkness. Alambas used all his powers of illusion which were in vain before the prowess of Abhimanyu. Unable to stand before Abhimanyu, Alambas got down from his chariot and ran away. With renewed vigour and valour, Abhimanyu charged against Kourava troops and slaughtered them. Beholding this, Bhishma, rallying Kourava troops, rushed to that spot. The unshaken Abhimanyu, was moving in the battle field with great speed and fighting with all at a time. Arjuna was feeling proud looking at the prowess of his son Abhimanyu. Arjuna rushed against Bhishma. There was a dual fight between Bhishma and Arjuna. Meanwhile, Kripacharya attacked Abhimanyu and showered arrows incessantly upon him. Satyaki intervened and cut all the arrows shot by Kripacharya. Satyaki shot most dreadful arrows against Kripacharya, which were cut by Asvathaama in the middle. Asvathaama cut the bow of Satyaki. Satyaki picked up another bow and shot dreadful arrows against Asvathama, as a result, Asvathaama fainted. In a moment, he regained consciousness, shot against the chest of Satyaki and cut his flag and roared like a lion. Satyaki was enraged with wrath. He shot innumerable arrows against Asvathaama and made his chariot invisible. Beholding his son Asvathama in that critical condition, Drona rushed against Satyaki and showered sharp edged arrows on him. Arjuna came to the help of Satyaki and attacked Drona." told Sanjaya, the ninth day war details to Dhritarashtra. Now, Dhritarashtra entertained a doubt. "Sanjaya! Arjuna is a beloved student of Drona. Arjuna also got great reverence towards his teacher. How they fought with each other? Tell me in detail." asked Dhritarashtra. "O King Dhritarashtra! As per Kshatriya Darma, when once any Kshatriya enters the battle field, he does not mind whether his opponent is his teacher, father, brother, son or any kith and kin. If he entertains such feeling, he can never fight. Therefore, Drona and Arjuna fought like enemies not like Teacher and Student. I will tell you in detail" said Sanjaya. "Then Arjuna shot most dreadlful arrows on Drona. Drona cut them into pieces and showered arrows on Arjuna. Instigated by Suyodhana, King of Trigarta went near Drona to help him. Trigarta went in between Arjuna and Drona and shot Bhalla Arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna cut them into fragments in between and launched Vaayavyaastra on the forces of Trigartha. Drona launched Sailaastra against Vavyaastra. Both the Astras were nullified. Arjuna chased the sons of King Trigartha by shooting sharp arrows against them. Beholding this, Suyodhana, Kripacharya, Salya, Bahlika and other Maharadhas rushed against Arjuna. Arjuna incessantly showered powerful arrows not only on Suyodhana and others but also on Drona. Looking at the prowess of Arjuna, all have freezed. `Bhishma drove his chariot against Arjuna and showered arrows on him. Bhishma was cutting the heads of hundreds and thousands of Pandava warriors with his dreadful arrows. At another front, Sakuni and Bhoorisravasa were fighting with Nakula and Sahadeva. Bhagadatta and King of Kalinga were fighting with Bhimasena with their elephant forces. Bhima took his mace, jumped out of his chariot as a lion from the top of a hillock. He began to break the heads of the elephants one by one. Frightened with the blows of the mace of Bhimasena, the elephants were running away hither and thither. On seeing their elephants running, Bhagadatta and Srutaayuvu hit Bhimasena with steep edged arrows on his chest. While Bhishma was massacring pandavastroops mercilessly, Yudhishtira waved his hand and called Bhimasena. Leaving the King of Kalinga and Bhagadatta, Bhimasent went to Yudhishtira. By that time Virata, Drupada, Dhrushtadyumna were already there. All of them at a time rushed against Bhishma and showered different kinds of innumerable arrows on Bhishma from all sides. .There was a fiercest battle between them. Sun rose to the middle of the sky. The battle field was filled with broken chariots, dead bodies of horses and elephants and soldiers, canals of blood. The forces on both sides were moving in between the dead bodies and were fighting with each other. The Kourava forces were deeply depressed and their morale was shattered. They were thinking aloud. "What is this? Why for we are fighting? Is it not due to the greediness, aggrandizement and foolishness of Suyodhana, this mass massacre and loss of life is happening? Is there any warrior on the face of the earth who can defeat Pandavas, or, for that matter, Arjuna?" Like that, they were discussing among themselves. Beholding Bhishma and Drona and others who were carefully hearing these murmurings, Suyodhana said: "O mighty warriors! Why are you paying heed to those useless words. Many may say may things. Let us fight together" Suyodhana encouraged them to fight. At that time, Bhimasena, with his mace in hand, was vigorously moving in the battle field, slaughtering the enemy troops. The charioteer of Bhimasena brought his chariot and stood before him. Bhimasena mounted his chariot, took his bow, and broke the chariot of Bahlika with his powerful arrows. Chitrasena annoyed Abhimanhyu with his wonderful arrows. Abhimanyu, not caring for those arrows, broke his chariot, killed the charioteer and the horses. Chitrasena mounted the chariot of Durmukha and both fled away. Drupada, king of Panchala, had a dual combat with Drona, beat him with his powerful arrows. With enraged anger, Drona broke his coat of mail. Drupada ran away. Susarma was fighting with Arjuna. Susarma showered sharp edged arrows on Sri Krishna and Arjuna. Arjuna cut them in the middle and chased Susarma away from the battle field. Susarma's army was scattered. Unable to attack Arjuna, Susarma fled away along with his army. Beholding this, Bhishma rushed against Arjuna. Satyaki intervened and showered arrows incessantly on Bhishma. Enraged with wrath,Bhishma launched a dreadful Sakti on Satyaki. Satyaki bent his body and warded off that Sakti. Satyaki caught it with his hand and hurled it back on Bhishma. Bhishma destroyed his own Sakti. Satyaki launched nine most powerful arrows on Bhishma. The Pandava Army at a time charged against Bhishma with utmost vigour. Looking at this, Suyodhana told Dussaasana thus: "Dussaasana! our Grandsire Bhishma is fighting alone. You along with Sakuni should atonce proceed towards Bhishma for his help." ordered Suyodhana. Dussaasana along with Sakuni and their respective forces rushed towards Bhishma. All of them penetrated into the Pandava forces and shattered them. Beholding this from a distance, Dharmaja waved his hand towards Nakula and Sahadeva and signalled them to proceed towards Bhishma. Nakula and Sahadeva, at the instance of their brother, rushed against Bhishma along with their forces. Suyodhana ordered ten thousand strong cavalry to attack the Pandava forces. The cavalry penetrated into pandava forces and began to slaughter them mercilessly. Dharmaja, Nakula and Sahadeva were shooting those horses with their arrows fitted with stone heads. The horses with broken legs were rolling on the ground.The Ten Thousand strong cavalry was diminishing gradually. Not caring for the soldiers mounted on their back, the horses were running away, throwing them down. Those soldiers were being crushed under the feet of their own horses. The ten thousand strong cavalry was reduced to none. The Kettle drums and conches and horns were blown by Pandava forces with joy. Beholding this, Suyodhana told Salya in great distress: "O King of Madra! The Pandava forces were rushing towards us as an ocean transgressing the shore and tearing our forces into pieces. You have to stop that ocean of army." requested Suyodhana. Salya along with his army drove against Dharmaja, Nakula and Sahadeva, and shot numerous dreadful arrows upon them. Arjuna and Bheema attacked Salya from other side. They both incessantly showered sharp arrows on Salya. Bhishma and Drona proceeded towards Salya. They both launched innumerable Astras and Sastras upon Bheema and Arjuna. It was noon at that time. Bhishma was shining as midday sun in midsummer and massacring the Pandava troops. He hit three sharp arrows each against Dharmaja, Arjuna, Bheema, Nakula and Sahadeva and hit Satyaki, Dhrushtadyumna with his sharp shafts and caused injuries all over their bodies. Beholding this, King Virata, King Pandya, Somaka, King of Madhagha, King of Karoosa, with the resepctive armies surrounded Bhishma and attaked him from all sides. Drona intervened and attacked Satyaki and Pandavas. Bhishma frightened those warriors who surrounded him, with his powerful Astras and Sastras. He was moving on his chariot in different directions and massacring the Pandava warriors. He was killing the horses, elephants and foot soldiers. The entire battle field was covered with the dead bodies of horses, elephants and soldiers. None was dare enough to stand before Bhishma. All Pandavas and their armies were amazingly staring at Bhishma beholding his prowess. Bhishma was moving with great speed in the battle field , as if he is any where and everywhere, massacring mercilessly the Pandava forces. He was killing all kinds of car-warriors, their horses and elephants. The foot soldiers were being crushed by Bhishma. The battle field was filled with hands and legs cut and bodies without hands and legs. The sounds of breaking of chariots, shrieking of elephants, horses and cryings of soldiers were echoing in the battle field. Bhishma was slaughtering Pandava troops as if wild fire destroying the dry bamboo forest. Krishna looked at Arjuna. "Arjuna! Today, with great prowess, Bhishma is destroying our troops. You are staring at him as a silent spectator. Is it proper for a valiant soldier like you?" Krishna sarcastically remarked. Arjuna kept quiet. "Arjuna! Are you not hearing my words? Have you forgotten those words uttered by you with Sanjaya in the open court of King Virata? If you keep silent like a coward, will, all the Kings who have come from far off places to fight for your sake, not laugh at you?" provoked Sri Krishna. But Arjuna was in utmost delusion. "Krishna! After destroying the entire Kuru Dynasty, by killing all my kith and kin, grandsire and teachers, friends and relatives, how can I enjoy these royal pleasures? What great task I have accomplished to feel pride? No. My hands are refusing to fight. What can I do? Whatever be the situation, I have to discharge my duty as Kshatriya. Drive our chariot against Bhishma. I will fight with my grandsire." said Arjuna with great anguish. Krishna with a smile on his face, drove the chariot against Bhishma. Arjuna alerted all his troops who were running away. "Stand there! Return back! Let us fight with Bhishma! I am here. Dont be afriad" Arjuna cried aloud. Arjuna roared like a lion. Twanged his Gandeeva. He launched powerful Astras on Bhishma. Bhishma destroyed those astras in middle and hit the entire body of Arjuna with powerful sharp shafts. The body of Arjuna was drenched in blood. Once again the Pandava troops fled away. Bhishma was chasing the Pandava troops. Arjuna excited with wrath. Putting forth his prowess, Arjuna cut the bow of Bhishma with sharp edged arrows. Bhishma took another bow. Arjuna broke that bow also. Bhishma took another and showered innumerable arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna was severely injured. He was tired. He was unable to stand on the chariot. He fainted. Bhishma was furiously fighting with great anger. When Arjuna himself fainted, none were there to attack Bhishma. Krishna realised that the situation is going out of control. He was enraged with anger. Keeping the reigns on the chariot, he jumped down. Krishna rushed against Bhishma with a view to kill him. Both sides stopped war. Everybody was thinking that Bhishma would have his last breath. All are staring at them. Bhishma was very much surprised. He also jumped down from his chariot. With folded hands he proceeded towards Krishna "Krishna! Come on! Hasten fast! Kill me. Bless me with salvation at your hands" Bhishma prostrated before Lord Krishna. Arjuna was in a perplexed mood. He lost his senses. Having jumped down from the chariot, he ran behind Sri Krishna. He caught him from behind and was dragging him towards the chariot. "Krishna! You have given me word that you will never fight. Will you violate your own words? How the world will think of you? Now I am alright. I am ready to fight with Bhishma. Please come back and occupy your seat as charioteer. Please. Dont defame me" requested Arjuna. On hearing the words of Arjuna, Krishna cooled down. With peaceful mind, Krishna returned back to his chariot, mounted it and occupied the seat of charioteer holding the reigns of horses. Arjuna roared like a lion, twanged the bowstring of Gandeeva and began to fight. He was massacring the Kourava troops. Bhishma also mounted his chariot. He shot numerous powerful sharp arrows against the bodies of Krishna and Arjuna. He was tearing the Pandava army into pieces. Again Pandavas remained as silent spectators. Bhishma was slaughtering the Panchala forces as if a strong man with huge body was crushing small ants on the ground. Unable to witness that diastrous slaughter, Sun was set on the west. Both sides stopped war for that day and retired to their respective places of stay. Beholding the prowess of Bhishma, Dharmaja was very much annoyed. Having been defeated at the hands of Bhishma, he along with his brothers, retired to his place of stay. In Kouravas' tents, all were rejoicing as Bhishma had vanquished all Pandava troops. Bhishma was acclaimed by your sons and other great car-warriors. " said Sanjaya, the 9th day war details. On that night, Dharmanandana did not get sleep. He, along with his brothers, went to the place where Krishna was staying. "Krishna! today, Bhishma crushed our troops like an elephant crushing a forest of reeds. We dare not even look at that great warrior. O Krishna, I am, through the weakness of my under-standing, plunged in an ocean of grief having got Bhishma as a foe in battle. Once again I will go back to forests and spend the rest of my life in peace. I no longer desire the battle. Even on earlier occasion also, my brothers suffered a lot in forests, on account of me. Tomorrow my brothers will be destroyed by Bhishma as insects rushing into a blazing fire. The welfare of my brothers is of utmost importance to me. If, with my brothers, O Kesava, I am worthy of your favour, tell me, what is for my benefit, without contravening the duties of Kshatriya." asked Dharmaja. Krishna carefully listened to the words of Dharmaja. "Dharmaja! you always regard truth. Yours brothers are invincible warriors. Besides that, I am always with you. I will be your friend, guide and philosopher. You need not worry about future. Even if Arjuna is not inclined to kill Bhishma, I myself will kill Bhishma and save you from his wrath. Arjuna is my friend, relation, and student. Arjuna also is very much devoted towards me. It is my duty to make true the words of Arjuna spoken to Sanjaya and Ulooka. I also spoke with them in the same manner. You have also heard those words of mine and Arjuna. Me and Arjuna shall have to accomplish our promises. Time has come. You remain peaceful." said Krishna. "Krishna! You have agreed to help us without fighting in the battle. Now how can I allow you to fight with Bhishma. Krishna! my grandsire Bhishma has given me a word that though he fights for Kouravas, he will help me also. Krishna! since my father's death, our gransire Bhishma brought, all of us, up with great love and affection. But today, I am inclined to kill him. Is kshatriya dharma is so cruel?" said Dharmaja in a sorrowful voice. Krishna understood his inner feelings. Dharmaja was inclined to meet Bhishma and elicit from him the way to kill him. Krishna remembered the words of Dharmaja with Bhishma on the first day of war viz., "I will meet again". Hence, Krishna said: "O Dharmaja! Your idea is appreciable. You yourself said that nobody will face Bhishma's wrath. If you approach him and ask him, he will certainly tell you about his fall in battle field. Let all of us go secretely and meet Bhishma. We have to pray him with utmost devotion for his death secret." said Krishna. Dharmaja, along with his brothers, attired in plain clothes, proceeded to the place of stay of Bhishma. All of them prostrated before Bhishma and sought his blessings. Bhishma was very happy. He blessed all of them, offered them seats and enquired them about their arrival at that odd hour. "O Grandsire Bhishma! How can we get back our kingdom? How can we protect our army without diminishing.? Kindly tell me.".asked Dharmaja with a sorrowful face. "Dharmaja! As long as I fight in the battle field, your army shall have to diminish. You will never get back your kingdom unless I fall down.." said Bhishma. "O Grandsire! As long as you are in the war field, resembling Lord Siva armed with his Trishool, nobody can beat you. Kindly tell me the way to conquer you!" asked Dharmaja. "Dharmaja! What you said is correct. As long as I am holding bow in my hand, even the divine forces cannot conquer me. You have all come to me to know about my fall. You can conquer me when I drop my bow and arrows. I will stop fighting in the following circumstances: I wont fight with ladies; with a person who removed his coat-of-mail; who is unarmed; who put down his flag, who was originally born as lady later transformed into male; who are called with ladies names, who removed his turban, and who has no brothers and sons. On seeing them, I will immediately drop my bow and arrows. I got another vow. I never fight with a person, who was born initially, not as male, but subsequently attained manliness by God's gift. Sikhandi, son of King Drupada, is such a person. Originally he was as female. By divine grace, he attained manliness. You are all aware of this fact. Hence I wont fight with Sikhandi. Therefore, Arjuna can keep Sikhandi in front of him and fight with me. As I drop my bow and arrows, he can easily kill me. Then it will be very easy for you to conquer Suyodhana and his brothers, relatives and friends. Therefore, do as I say." said Bhishma. Having accomplished his desire, Dharmaja took leave from his Grandsire, Bhishma, returned back to his place of stay. While going back, on the way, Arjuna was seen very much distressed, thinking about the words of Bhishma, revealing his death secret. "Krishna! Bhishma is my Guru. He is a man of virtues. He is at the evening of his life. He is respected by all. He is so generous. How can I kill such a great personality? After playing in the dust, in my child-hood, when I ran to him, he used to hug me and kiss me with great love and affection. While we were orphans, having lost our father in our childhood, he protected us and provided us with all amenities. Is it proper to kill such a great personality in this wicked manner, for the sake of kingdom. Even if he kills all our forces, I donot mind. But I never kill him. Pandavas are not that much cruel." said Arjuna. Having heard these words of Arjuna, Krishna said: "O Arjuna! Dont you know Kshatriya Dharma. By tolerating cruelty to some extent, a kshatriya should, without agitated mind, kill the enemies and protect his people. With the taxes they pay, he should take up all social welfare works and strive hard for the welfare of the society. This is Kshatriya Dharma. This was told by Brihaspati to Indra. We cannot say that those words are not correct. Besides that, you have taken a vow, in the presence of all, many a time, that you will kill Bhishma in the battle. If you drop like this, the entire world will laugh at you. Killing of enemy in battle is regarded as Kshatriya Dharma but not as a cruel act. Therefore, shed your anguish and fight with Bhishma with a desire to kill him." said Krishna. "O Krishna! what you said is correct. It is well known to the world that Sikhandi was born only to kill Bhishma. Our Gransire said that he will drop his arms on seeing Sikhandi. Let Sikhandi kill Bhishma.I will fight with others." said Arjuna. Krishna with a smiling face said: "Arjuna! Bhishma is not an ordinary warrior. He is a man of great prowess. His death is in your hands. Nobody can avert his fate. Dont waste time with unnecessary conversation. Fight with Bhishma and kill him." said Krishna. Unable to argue with Krishna, Arjuna said: " I will fight as you like. Let the fate take its own course.". All have retired to their respective places of stay." said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. "Sanjaya! what had happened on tenth day war. How Pandavas fought with Bhishma, keeping Sikhandi, in front of them. Tell me in detail." asked Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya continued to tell the 10th day war details. "Next day morning, Pandavas and Kouravas, accompanied by their respective armed forces, proceeded to the battle field. Pandavas arrayed their forces in the following manner. They kept Sikhandi in the forefront. On either side of him, stood Bhima and Arjuna. On his rear side stood Abhimanyu and the sons of Droupadi. On either side of Abhimanyu and Sons of Droupadi, stood Chekitana and Satyaki. Behind them, Dhrushtadyumna and other sons of King Panchala were standing. Yudhishtira, accompanied by Nakula and Sahadeva on either side was standing on the rear side. As protectors of all these forces, King Virata, King Drupada, Five Kekaya Kings and Dhrushtaketu with their mighty forces, were standing around them. In this manner, Pandava forces were arrayed for the tenth day battle. Beholding this, Suyodhana arrayed his troops in the following manner. Bhishma was standing in the forefront. The remaining Kouravas were standing around him. Drona and Asvathaama were standing on either side of Bhishma. Suyodhana accompanied by Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Bhaga-datta was standing in the middle. Brihadbala, King of Kambhoja and other Kings were standing around Suyodhana. The King of Trigarta was standing on the rear side. In this manner, Kouravas arrayed their troops for the tenth day war. The huge and terrible sounds of blowing of trumpets, kettle drums and horns rose to sky. All the warriors were blowing their conches. Two armies approached each other for the tenth day battle. The war on that day resembled the war between Divine Forces and Danava forces. There was heavy rush in the abode of Yama. Nakula and Sahadeva, excited with rage and desirous of vanquishing the enemies, was massacring the rival forces. Bhima and Arjuna, from the other side was slaughtering the Kourava forces. With the support of these warriors, all the Pandava forces were rushing against Kourava forces with renewed vigour and were vanquishing the Kourava forces. Bhishma enraged with anger, fell on the Pandava troops and incessantly showered arrows upon them. Horses tied to the chariots, horses in the cavalry forces, elephants and the foot soldiers were rolling on the ground, losing their lives. Sikhandi shot three sharp arrows on Bhishma. Bhishma did not even look at him. "You were born as lady but attained manliness in middle. Even if you shower arrows upon me, I will smile. I will never fight with you." said Bhishma. "Bhishma! you have conquered many kings. You opposed Parasurama. Why cannot you show your prowess to me also? Even if you do not shot arrows at me, I will never leave you. I will kill you with my keen edged arrows. Come on. fight with me" Sikhandi provoked Bhishma. Arjuna surprised with these words. " Strange is the behaviour of Sikhandi today. I think time has come for Bhishma to fall down. That is why Sikhandi is enraging like this." thought Arjuna for himself. Looking at Sikhandi Arjuna said: "Sikhandi! after boasting yourself like this, if you do not do anything, the world will laugh at you. I am behind you. Dont be afraid. Rush against Bhishma. Fight with him and Kill him."encouraged Arjuna. By that time, Bhishma was fighting with King Panchala at another place. Arjuna along with his forces attacked Bhishma. Unable to withstand the prowess of Arjuna, kourava army fled away. "O my grandsire! Look at that side. Our forces are fleeing away. Why are you keeping quiet." asked Suyodhana. Being annoyed with the words of Suyodhana, Bhishma replied: "Suyodhana! I have given you word that I will kill ten thousand warriors in ten days. I have killed more than ten thousand and I discharged my promise. A keen observance of today's war reveals that either I should kill Pandavas or Pandavas should kill me, will certainly happen. I am a human being. They are divine bodies. It is impossible for divine bodies to be killed by a common man like me. Anyhow, I will show my vigour and valour." said Bhishma. Accompanied by several kings, Bhishma rushed against Pandava troops and was massacring them. With renewed vigour, your sons were fighting with their enemies. Beholding this, Pandavas, Kings of Matsya, Panchala, Yadavas, Pandya and Kekaya kings, along with their forces, at a time jumped against Bhishma.There was a fierce battle. Arjuna was provoking Sikhandi. "Sikahandi! Attack Bhishma. I will be by your side. Bhishma will not look at your face. He will drop his bow and arrows. Then I will hit him with my arrows" suggested Arjuna. Dhrushtadyumna was instigating his troops: "Come on! Let us gather here. We should charge against Bhishma all at a time. Arjuna is behind us. No fear. Rush against Bhishma." Dhrushtadyumna was crying aloud. On hearing his cries, Dharmaja, Bheema, Nakula, Sahadeva, Abhimanyu, sons of Droupadi, King Virata, Satyaki, Chekitana, Dhritaketu, Kekaya Kings, Magadha kings and other renowned warriors in Pandava Army, with their respective forces surrounded Bhishma. Observing this development, Asvathaama, Bhoorisravasa, Kritavarma, Kripa-charya, King of Kambhoja, Vikarna, Durmukha, Vivimsati, Chitrasena and other car warriors on Kourava side rushed to that spot guarding Bhishma. Sikhandi and Arjuna were on one chariot. Arjuna was standing behind SikhanDi. Dussasana intervened in between Sikhandi and Bhishma. Dussaasana shot 20 keen edged shafts on Krishna and Arjuna. Arjuna cut them in the middle and shot one hundred iron edged shafts on Dussaasana. In return, Dussaasana shot five sharp arrows hitting the forehead of Arjuna. Enraged with fury, Arjuna broke the bow of Dussaasana. Dussaasana took up another bow and shot 20 sharp edged arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna broke them into pieces and shot another sharp arrow aiming at the chest of Dussaasana. With that blow, Dussaa-sana fainted. The charioteer drove his chariot from that place and stood behind Bhishma. Dussaasana regained consciousness and again attacked Arjuna with renewed vigour. There were dual fights between Satyaki on one side and Alambasa and Bhagadattaon the otherside; Abhimanyu and Sudakshina; Asvathaama on one side and King Virata and King Drupada on the other side; Sahadeva and Kripacharya; Nakula with Vikarna; Ghatotkacha and Durkukha; Bhimasena and Bhoorisravasa; Chekitana and Chitrasena; Dharmaja and Drona. The mighty warriors on both sides were breaking the flags of the others; breaking the bows; killing the horses and elephants and slaughtering one another. The blood was flowing like canals. It was noon at that time. While cutting all the Astras and Sastras launched by Dussaasana, Arjuna broke his bow and flag, and pierced numerous sharp edged arrows through his body and roared like a lion. Unable to stand before Arjuna, Dussaasana fled away. Then Arjuna began to massacre the kourava foreces. Beholding this, Drona, excited with wrath, rushed against Arjuna. In between, along with his mighty forces, Dharmaja arrived there and attacked Drona. Drona called his son Asvathaama. "Asvathaama! Today my hands are shaking. I am unable to remember the divine Astras. Mybody is trembling. Bow is slipping from my hand. My mind is going out of control. I am unable to hold the bow firmly. I am afraid that Arjuna may kill Bhishma today and accomplish his desire. See how all the horses and elepahnts are rolling down. Chariots are being broken into pieces. It is as if Yama is wandering here in the form of Arjuna. Some how I am expecting some danger to Bhishma. See how the face of Yudhishtira is excited with wrath. I am unable to come there and save Bhishma as I have to fight with Dharmaja and other warriors here. You immediately proceed towards Bhishma and protect him from Arjuna." said Drona. On hearing the words of his father, Drona, Asvathaama immediatley proceeded towards Bhishma. At that time Bhimasena was slaughtering the kourava forces, standing in front of Bhishma. Beholding this, Bhagadatta, Kriacharya, Kritavarma, Salya, Saindhava, Chitrasena, Durmarshana, Vinda, Anuvinda along with their respective forces formed as a protecting wall in front of Bhishma. They were all fighting with Bheemasena. The unshaken Bheemasena was fighting with those ten mighty warriors. Arjuna came there to help Bhimasena. Arjuna broke the flags, bows and chariots of those ten warriors with his sharp edged shafts. Arjuna penetrated into the kourava forces and massacring them. Suyodhana directed Susarma to fight with Bheema and Arjuna. Susharma joined those ten warriors. All were fighting with Bheema and Arjuna. Suyodhana was very much disturbed. He waved his hand, loudly calling all his troops to come there. The entire war concentrated there itself. Abhimanyu and Satyaki also joined Bhima and Arjuna with their respective forces. Bhishma was fighting with Arjuna with powerful Astras. In that terrible, fierce and awful battle, charioteers were dying. Horses and elephants were being slaughered cruelly. Bhishma was moving in the battlefield like whirlwind and massacring the enemy forces. Sun was slowingly setting on west. Bhishma thought for a while. "During these ten days, I have killed many virtuous kshatriya warriors and thousands of soldiers. I am vexed with this carnage. It is better to cut the bondage with this body." so thinking Bhishma drove his chariot near the chariot of Yudhishtira. While passing by the side of his chariot, Bhishma told Yudhishtira: "O my dear Yudhishtira! Since my childhood, I have been killing several kings and their forces, most cruelly. Still I am continuing these killings. I am advancing in age. My time is over. I am very much tired with this cruel carnage. I am disgusted. If you are really my well wishers, rush against me with Sikhandi in your forefront and fight with me, desirous of killing me. Dont delay. Kindly relieve me from this human body." spoke Bhishma and was passing away on his chariot. As a dutiful soldier, he was continuing to combat with the enemy forces. On hearing these words of Grandsire, he called Dhrushtadyhumna "Dhurshtadyumna! Yourself, Bhimasena, Arjuna and other mighty warriors all atonce surround Bhishma." ordered Yudhishtira. Dhrushtadyumna waved his hand towards Kings of Matsya, Kekaya and other mighty car-warriors to come there. He along with Bhimasena and Arjuna, rushed against Bhishma. Beholding this, Suyodhana along with his brothers and other car-warriors stood by the side of Bhishma, protecting him carefully. There was a dreadful battle between both sides. Abhimanyu, along with his army, rushed against Suyodhana and shot most cruel shafts against him. Asvathaama pierced several sharp arrows in the body of Satyaki. "Kill Bhishma. Dont leave him" the pandava troops were shouting aloud. "Save our Grandsire. kill the enemies" Kourava troops were crying aloud. Both Bhishma and Arjuna were fighting as lions. Dussaasana intervened in between Bhishma and Arjuna, along with his forces. Arjuna shot Dussaasana with his most powerful shafts. Dussaasana fled away unable to withstand the wrath of Arjuna. Then Bhagadatta attacked Arjuna. Arjuna killed the elephant of Bhagadatta. Then Bhagadatta left Arjuna and went away. At that time, Arjuna told Sikhandi "Sikhandi! shoot your arrows aiming at the chest of Bhishma."encouraged Arjuna. Sikhandi darted powerful arrows against Bhishma, aiming at his chest. Bhishma never cared him. Bhishma turned to otherside and was fighting with others. Sikhandi was continuing to dart most powerful arrows aiming at his chest, and other sensitive parts of his body. Bhishma is not trying to avert those blows. He was not even looking at Sikhandi but was fighting with Arjuna. Dussaasana enraged with wrath, intervened in between Bhishma and Arjuna and was fighting with Arjuna. Suyodhana waved his hand towards the Kings of Kalinga, Malava, Bahlika, Videha and other warriors like Soorasena and signalled them to rush to that spot. All of them along with their respective forces, rushed to that spot. Arjuna, remained unperturbed, and controlled all of them with his prowess. Arjuna chased all of them to a distance. On Arjuna's chariot, Sikhandi was standing before him. Arjuna provoked Sikhandi to shoot powerful arrows agaisnt Bhishma. Enraged with wrath, Sikhandi darted most powerful arrows against Bhishma, penetrating through his coat of mail, piercing his chest cavity. Blood was coming out of the body of Bhishma like fountain. Sikhandi blew his conche and roared like a lion. Entire body of Bhishma was drenched in blood. Dussaasana was shocked. He along with Kripacharya, Salya, Vivimsati, Vikarna, rushed in between Bhishma and Arjuna. Arjuna broke the chariots of all of them. Suyodhana and his brothers, were excited with anger. Suyodhana waved his hand signalling all his Akshouhini forces to rush against Arjuna. All the Kourva forces surrounded Arjuna. Bhishma, as a last resort, tried to launch a most dreadful Astra to kill the rest of the Pandava Army. When he tried to launch that Astra, Sikhandi appeared before him. Immediatly Bhishma dropped down his bow and arrows and turned aside and launched that Astra on Virata forces. Virata forces fled away. Sataaneeka, brother of King Virata, encouraging his forces, rushed against Bhishma. He afflicted Bhishma with terrible shafts. Bhishma, enraged with great fury, broke the bow and flag of Sataaneeka, killed his charioteer and the horses tied to his chariot. Unable to withstand the prowess of Bhishma, Sataaneeka launched a powerful Astra against Bhishma. Bhishma cut it in middle and with another Astra, cut the head of Sataaneeka.On seeing the death of Sataaneeka, all the Virata forces fled away. Beholding all these developments, Krishna told Arjuna: "Arjuna! look at our forces. They are fleeing away unable to withstand the wrath of Bhishma. It is time to kill Bhishma. You have no othergo except to kill Bhishma. Launch most dreadful Astras against Bhishma" provoked Sri Krishna. Now Arjuna decided to kill Bhishma. First Arjuna killed the charioteer of Bhishma and also the horses tied to his chariot. Seeing this, Sikhandi was excited with wrath. He shot keen edged shafts against Bhishma. Bhishma did not retaliate. Arjuna cut the bow of Bhishma. Unable to control themselves, Salya, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Chitrasena, Bhoorisravasa and others, rushed against Arjuna launching divine Astras, stood in between Bhishma and Arjuna. Bhima, Satyaki, Abhimanyu, Virata, Drupada, Ghatotkacha and other mighty warriors with their respective forces attacked them. The battle was fierce, terrible and awful. Arjuna was moving fastly in the battle field, launching Indra, Varuna and Vavya Astras upon the enemy forces. While protecting Sikhandi on one side, Arjuna was provoking Sikhandi to strike Bhishma with his arrows. Arjuna broke the bow of Bhishma. Bhishma took up another bow which was also broken by Arjuna. Arjuna was continously breaking the bows of Bhishma and averted him from shooting arrows. Vexed with the attitude of Arjuna, Bhishma launched a dreadful Sakti. Arjuna broke that Sakti into fragments. Arjuna killed the charioteer of Bhishma and broke his flag. Arjuna blew his conch Devadatta. Beholding the prowess of Arjuna, Bhishma thought: "Arjuna is invincible. While revealing the secret of my death to Dharmaja, I invited my death. Having done so, what is the use of fighting with them now vigorously. The only alternative is stop fighting and remain peaceful." thought Bhishma. Having known his desire, all the divine bodies and great sages and saints from heaven commended him. Their glorifications were heard by Bhishma and, with the blessings of Vyasam, by me also. At that time, Sikhandi shot most dreadful arrows against Bhishma. Bhishma smiled and ignored them. Arjuna, standing behind Sikhandi, showered innumerable steep edged arrows on Bhishma. Having seen this, Bhishma again took up his bow and cut all those arrows in the middle. In retaliation, Bhishma incessantly showered arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna broke them in the middle. Again Arjuna broke the bow of Bhishma. Arjuna darted sharp edged arrows piercing into his chest, breaking the coat-of-mail. Bhishma called Suyodhana "Suyodhana! look at Arjuna and his way of fighting. Even the divine forces or asura forces cannot attack him. After all humans are nothing before him." said Bhishma. Arjuna hiding his Gandeevam behind Sikhandi, shot dreadful arrows upon Bhishma. All of them were piercing his body. Bhishma called Dussaasana: "Look at these arrows. These are not emanated from the bow of Sikhandi. These are the arrows resembling the rods of death. They are striking me at all vital parts of my body. Sikhandi cannot shot such kind of arrows resembling Yama's rods. They are strong and striking at all vital parts of my body. Such arrows emanate only from Gandeeva but not from any other bow." said Bhishma. As a last resort, Bhishma, collecting all his senses, launched Sakti against Arjuna which was destoryed by Arjuna. Bhishma tried to jump out of his chariot holding his sword and shield. Arjuna broke his sword and shield into pieces. Arjuna roared like a lion. "Dont be afraid. Fight with Bheeshma. Surround him. Kill him" shouting Arjuna. Hearing the words of Arjuna all the Pandava forces all at a time surrounded Bhishma. Kourava forces averted them. Fierce was the battle fought there between kourava troops and those of the enemy. Sun was about to set on the west. Arjuna was continously striking Bhishma with innumberable arrows piercing every inch of his body. Bhishma fell down from his chariot just before sun set. . While falling, he fell with his head eastwards. Pierced all over with arrows, his body touched not the ground. At that moment, the divine nature took possession of that great bowman lying on a bed of arrows. The divine bodies, seeing the fall of Bhishma from the sky, worried: "This is Dakshina Ayan which is not auspicious. Bhishma may die during Dakshina Ayan." "O Divine bodies! I know that it is not auspicious to die during Dakshina Ayan. Hence I retained my life still in my body. At the time of the marriage of my father with Satyavati, my father blessed me with a boon of "death at my will". Hence, my death would depend on my own wish." said Bhishma. Having heard those words, Divine bodies were satisfied. At the instance of Mother Ganga, some saints, in the form of swans, arrived there to inform Bhishma about Dakshina Ayan. Having learnt that Bhishma was aware of it, they have gone back. Coming to know about the fall of Bhishma, Suyodhana sent Dussaasana to inform Drona about the ir. Having heard about the fall of Bhishma through Dussaasana, Drona fainted. After regaining consciousness, he wept like a child for the fall of Bhishma. He immediately rushed to the spot where Bhishma fell. Having seen the fall of Bhishma, jubilant atmosphere prevailed in the camps of Pandavas. Pandavas, King of Matsya, Panchala, Yadavas, were very happy. The sounds of kettle drums, horns rose to the sky. Gloomy atmosphere prevailed in our camps. As the sun was set, the war was stopped for the day." said Sanjaya the tenth day war details to Dhritarashtra. "Sanjaya! After having heard about the fall of my father, Bhishma, I remained unperturbed. I do not know whether I am a human being or a huge rock. Sanjaya! what remains to be said, please tell me. I am ready to hear" said Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya continued to say the events happened after the fall of Bhishma. "Then Kouravas and Pandavas, leaving their bows and arrows, went near Gangeya. Dhananjaya only approached his Grandsire with Gandeevam. Bheeshma looked at Suyodhana "Suyodhana! my head is falling down. Kindly arrange a support for my head" requested Bhishma. Suyodhana and other kouravas brought featherlike pillows. Gangeya rejected them smoothly and looked at Arjuna. Arjuna with his Gandeevam shot three arrows under the head of Bhishma and kept the head of the Grandsire on those three arrows. Bhishma was very happy with the arrangement made by Arjuna. Looking at both Kouravas and Pandavas, Bhishma said: "I will be lying on this arrow bed until the advent of Uttara Ayan which is auspicious for my departure to heaven. Kindly make arrangements for my safety." asked Bhishma. Both Kouravas and Pandavas with great devotion arranged a fencing around that place and made necessary security arrangements. At the instance of Suyodhana, medical practitioners arrived there to treat Bhishma. Bhishma smoothly rejected that facility. As he was thirsty, Bhishma requested your sons for water. Immediately, cool, sweet, pure water were brought in golden vessels. "Suyodhana! I am lying on an arrow bed. I am attaining divinity. I never touch anything which is touched by humans. If you are capable, bring out underground water for my use. I will drink that water." said Bhishma. Your sons and other Kings were discussing how to get underground water at that spot. Gangeya looked at Arjuna. "Arjuna! the pain and suffering caused by these arrows is unbearable. I am thirsty. You have to get pure underground water." asked Bhishma. Arjuna with folded hands, gone round his Grandsire, Bhishma, saluted him, and launched Parjanya Astra, into the ground. That Astra gone deep into the ground and the underground water gushed up like a fountain. Everybody amazed at this happening. As that fountain was directly falling into his mouth, Bhishma drank that pure, untouched, water. Having satisfied with that, Bhishma told Arjuna: "Arjuna! listen carefully. Previously, I was told by Narada that you are Nara and Sri Krishna is Narayana. If you both unite together, nothing is impossible to both of you. I told many a time to King Suyodhana, not to bear grudge against you. But he didnot heed my words. He will wreak the consequences at the hands of Bhima. It is certain." said Bheeshma. Looking at Suyodhana he said: "Suyodhana! listen to me. Arjuna is Nara, a man of great prowess. Narayana who is now in the form of Sri Krishna is his friend and relative. None can conquer these Nara and Narayana. Even now it is not too late. Make friendship with Dharmaja and give him his due share in the kingdom and Indraprastha which was built by him. Atleast your remaining brothers, friends and relatives will survive. Stop this war." suggested Bhishma. All are silent. Without speaking single word, all of them departed to their resepctive places of stay. While going back, Krishna told Dharmaja: "Dharmaja! Arjuna is unconquerable even to divine forces. None can defeat him." said Krishna . "Krishna! This victory is yours. With your help and coordination only, we could achieve this but not with our prowess, vigour and valour." said Dharmaja. Some time later, Karna arrived there alone. Karna touched the feet of Bhishma with great devotion. "O Grandsire Bhishma! Please shed your anger, bless me with your love and affection and speak few words to me." prayed Karna. Bhishma opened his eyes,looked at Karna and called him near to him. Bhishma hugged Karna with one hand and signalled the guards to remain at a distance. Making sure that none were hearing their words, Bhishma said: "Karna! why should I be anger towards you. Because you are creating caste feelings and fomenting jealousy between Kouravas and Pandavas, as an elderly person, I scolded you. I never bear grudge or anger upon you. Your birth is divine. Humans can never stand before you and conquer you. You are the son of Kunti not of Radha. Vyasa told me about your birth. I know about your prowess, vigour and valour. Because you are the son of Kunti, I always have love affection upon you. I was telling that enmity between Kouravas and Pandavas is not good and favourable to anybody. Because, Pandavas are unconquerable. SriKrishna is on their side. Therefore, enmity with Pandavas is not at all agreeable. Without any other thought, join Pandavas and be happy." said Bhishma. "O Grandsire, Bhishma! The fact that I am Kounteya not Radheya was known to me much earlier. But, at this juncture, will it be possible for me to have friendship with Pandavas.? As you said, Pandavas are most powerful and they are aided by Sri Krishna. We cannot conquer them. This is certain. But, till now, I am sailing with Suyodhana at all times. I got many Honours at his hands. Is it just and proper to leave him at this crucial time? Besides that, I insulted Pandavas in the open assembly in several ways. I was alwlays thinking to cause harm to Pandavas. In every nerve of mine, I developed jealousy against them. I originated enmity between Kouravas and Pandavas and fomented it which culminated into this mass massacre. Pandavas are very much disgusted against me. In these circumstances, the only way left open for me is to fight with Pandavas. Nothing is in our hands. Everything is destined by fate. Kindly bless me for a war against Pandavas. I will discharge my loyalty towards Suyodhana and show my strength and prowess before Krishna and Arjuna." Karna sought the blessings of Bhishma. "Karna! I know that you are such a great warrior of eminent prowess. Your strength, vigour and valour are the assets of Suyodhana. Do the needful to Suyodhana and feel him happy. My blessings are always with you. I am giving permission. Without having any doubt in your mind, you act according to your conscience." said Bhishma. Karna was very happy with the kind and affectionate words of Bhishma. After taking leave from Bhishma, Karna went back to his residence." said Sanjaya the tenth day war details to Dhritarashtra. Thus Saint Vaisampaayana told Janayamejaya, the story of Mahabharata. MAHA BHARAT BHISHMA PARVA THIRD CHAPTER COMPLETED. BHISHMA PARVA COMPLETED OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT.