8 Mar 2014

BOOK11 STRI PARVA MV SUBRAMANYUM



BOOK11 STRI PARVA
Mahabharat
Stree parva
First chapter.
In Naimisaranya, Soota, the story teller, told Saint Sounaka and other sages and saints, the story of Mahabharata as told by Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
“On hearing from Sanjaya that his son, Suyodhana, was beaten below the waist and killed by Bhiamsena, what were the feelings of Dhritarashtra. You told me that the three warriors, Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma proceeded to Hasti-napura. For what purpose they proceeded to Hastinapura? Whom they met? From Hastina, where they have gone? After the departure of Asvathama to Vyasa Ashram, what happened to the other two? How could Dharmaja tolerate the deaths of his own sons? What he has done in retaliation? Kindly tell me.” asked Janamejaya. Vaisampayana continued to tell the story of Mahabharata.

On hearing from Sanjaya that all his one hundred sons perished in the battle field, Dhritarashtra was afflicted with great grief and fell down like a tree cut at the root.
Beholding Dhritarashtra, Sanjaya said: “ O King Dhrita-rasthra! why are you grieving. Grief does not serve any purpose. Shed the grief and think wisely. Nearly 18 akshouhini strong army perished in this 18 days great war. Your fathers, grand fathers, brothers, friends, were killed. You have to perform funeral ceremonies to all of them. Let us go to the battle field” said Sanjaya.
Dhritarashtra was beating his head with both hands and lamenting for the deaths of his sons.
“Sanjaya! All my sons are dead. All my riches have gone. For whose sake I have to remain in this world. Shall I have to live at the mercy of others. Sanjaya! When Krishna came down to Hastinapura to effect mediation between brothers, he tried to convince me to give half share to Pandavas. Bhishma, Drona and others also expressed their concern about my welfare. But, with an evil mind, I paid a deaf ear to their wise advices. I refused to divide the kingdom and give half share to Pandavas. Now I am reaping the consequences.
I lost all my sons, relatives and friends. I remained here only to perform their funerals. Sanjaya! really I am a fool. Knowing fully well about future, I refused to give their half share. As a result, I lost my own kith and kin. No Sanjaya. This calamity is not of this birth. It is carried forward from my previous births. Sanjaya! why should I perform their funerals? Dharmaja is there to perform them. Pandavas killed all my sons for the sake of discharing their promises. Let them do this also.” said Dhritarashtra in a great distressed mood.
“O King Dhritarashtra! You are wise and learned. You have heard many Sastras and Puranas. Still, you are lamenting like an ordinary man. You just now said that you did not hear the advices of your well wishers. Tell me, Who are your well wishers? Karna, Sakuni and Dussaasana. Yourself and your sons followed their ill advises and landed in greatest trouble.
Your son, Suyodhana, was always wielding his sword for fighting, but never applied his mind towards the welfare of the society. He never heed the advices of his Minister, Vidura. You never controlled him. You never kept him in right order. You never tried to restrain your sons from indulging in wicked deeds. In fact you lost control over your sons. Instead of controlling your wicked son, you also fell in his trap. Hence you both refused to hear the advices of Vidura, who was your well wisher. Now you are blaming others. What is the use? There is no use of repenting for your own making.. Therefore, shed the grief. You are crying aloud for help as if a person, sitting in the midst of fire, crying for help. Everybody will laugh at you. Therefore, stop crying and do the need ful.” said Sanjaya.
Meanwhile, Vidura arrived there. “King Dhritarashtra! you have done what all you can do. Now you are leisurely crying and lamenting for the deaths of your sons. Get up and stop crying.” said Vidura. Dhritharashtra stopped crying.
“O King Dhritashtra! Raise and fall are common in a man’s life. If you try for new tastes, you may lose the original taste. Life is sure to end in death. Every union will end in separation. This is natural. Nobody can escape from these natural events.While grabbing the lives of humans, Yama never discriminate between rich and poor, hero and coward etc. Everybody is destined to die. Some may die in war field, and others may die in their homes. Whereever he is, he cannot escape death. Therefore, lamenting for death is foolish act.
All your sons died in the battle field and attained higher regions and are enjoying heavenly pleasures. But you are lamenting for their death. It is not proper. You are learned and wisest of all. There is nothing which you donot know. After taking birth, childhood, youth, glamour, nature and the things of pleasure in nature are all uncertain. Nothing will remain for ever. Why should you grieve for those uncertain things.
Wise will never feel grief. Therefore, shed your grief and think about future. O King Dhritarasthra! the power of thinking of ordinary people is too little. Hence, they cannot withstand even for a smallest suffering. They feel sorrow if they lose what they have or if they could not get what they do not have. Their wisdom will perish and they will resort to all untoward acts. But wise will never feel likes and dislikes. They treat the entire outside world equally.” said Vidura.
On hearing the words of Vidura, Dhritarashtra consoled himself. “Vidura! my grief has been dispelled with your wise and excellent words. You told me that wise and learned will treat the entire world equally and free themselves from mental grief and the bereavement of objects that are dear. How is it possible? How can they live in the outside world without likes and dislikes. Kindly tell me” asked Dhritarashtra. Vidura continued to say:
“O King Dhritarashtra! This ‘samsara’ (outside world) is like a plaintain tree. It is very weak and without any strength. But human beings are always entangled in this Samsara and are subjected to eternal sorrow. The human body is like a house. When the house is destroyed, he will move to another house. It is nothing but changing from soiled clothes to new clothes. Hence this body is not eternal.
A pot maker, while making pots, put some mud on the pot-making-wheel and turns it speedily. The pot may break at any stage while making it. Or even if it is made, it may break while it is burnt. Or it may break while we are using it. We cannot say when this earthen pot will break. Our human body also is similar to an earthen pot. By the physical and bilogical combination of father and mother, a foetus will be formed in the womb of mother. At that stage itself, it may abort. Or while the foetus is taking the shape of a child, or at the time of delivery of child, or even after the birth, life may be terminated. While the child is growing up into youth and even in middle age or at old age, at any time, any moment, with or without any cause, death may happen. Therefore, human beings are nearing their death at every moment. None can say that death will be caused in a specific manner. Hence, it is unwise to lament for the death. Wise are always aware that this Samsara (outside world) is full of sorrows and will never entangle into it. Therefore, dont grieve for those who are dead.” said Vidura.
“Vidura! I do not understand why this Samsara is full of sorrows. How can we keep aloof of it. Kindly tell me.” asked Dhritarashtra. Vidura continued to say:
“O King Dhritarashtra! I already told you that this body is formed by the physical and biological combination of father and mother. While the child was in the mother’s womb, Prana will enter into it. The child will be turning around in the mother’s womb and suffer a hell. At the time of delivery, the child will reach at the entrance of uterus. With great difficulty, the child will enter into this world.
During the child hood, the child does not know good and bad, clean and dirt, wise and unwise. He will commit many untowards acts during childhood. Some time will elapse during child hood. He will enter into the stage of youth. At this stage, he or she is interested in making love, expressing passion, enjoying lust and desires and are always entangled in worldly pleasures. He will always be craving for sexual pleasures, as a result, both pleasures and sorrows will affect. He may commit many untoward, illegal and immoral acts to fullfill his desires. Then he will enter into old age. His strength and power will diminish gradually. He could not reconcile with his old age. Still he may commit several untowards things. He will be afflicted with many diseases. At last, Death will take away his life. He will suffer a lot while leaving this body. With this, his present birth will come to an end.
Therefore, O King Dhritarashtra, it is very clear that this Samsara (outside world) does not yield any pleasure at any stage. Besides that, it is full of sorrows. To achieve petty pleasures, one will kill another. Leaving Dharma, he will indulge in Adharma. Wise and learned will always follow a righteous and virtuous path and attain eternal pleasures. I will tell you an anecdotee, which I heard it from elders.
In a wild forest, a Brahmin was travelling. In that forest, tigers, lions, elephants and other wild animals surrounded him. He began to run hither and thither. Some thieves tried to catch him. With the fear of death, he turned back and began to run. Meanwhile a frightful woman stood there, stretching her arms to embrace him. That large forest was also encompassed by many five-headed snakes of dreadful forms.
There was a pit whose mouth was covered with many hard creepers and herbs. The Brahmin, while running, fell into that invisible pit. He became entangled in those clusters of creepers that were interwoven with one another. He continued to hang there, feet upwards and head downwards. While he was in that posture, he saw a large and mighty snake within the pit. He also saw an elephant above the pit. The elephant has six faces and twelve feet. The elephant was approaching the pit. There was a huge tree near the pit, with full of ripe fruits, and flowers. Above the small branches of the tree, roved many bees for drinking the honey gathered in their honey comb. Some honey was falling down drop by drop into the mouth of the Brahmin. Even in that distressful situation, he was drinking the honey and his thirst could not be appeased. Unsatisfied with those drops of honey, the Brahmin desired for more. He continued to hope for existence. A number of black and white rats were eating away the roots of that huge tree.
He has forgotten all his woes and distress and was drinking the drops of honey and was enjoying. There was a fear from the beasts in the forest; from that fierce woman in the outskirts of the forest; from that snake at the bottom of the well; from that elephant near its top; from the fall of tree through the action of the rats; and lastly from those bees flying about for tasting the honey. In that plight, he continued to dwell, deprived of his senses, in that wilderness, without losing, at any time, the hope of prolonging his life.” said Vidura.
“Vidura! I could not understand what you say. Kindly tell me in detail about the fate of that brahmin” asked Dhritarashtra. Vidura contiued to say:
“O King Dhritarashtra! elders will narrate the above story to teach virtuous path and inculcate the desire for attaining Moksha. The incidents in this story are quite similar to human life. I will tell in detail. The forest in which the Brahmin was travelling is Samsara. The wild animals are diseases. The woman of gigantic personality is old age. The five headed elephant is our five sense organs. The snake within the well is Lord Yama. The creeper by which Brahmin was hanging head downwards is desire for life. The six faced elephant is one year with six seasons, and its twelve feet are twelve months. The rats, black and white, eating away the stem of the tree, are day and night, that are continuously lessening the periods of life of all creatures. Those that have been described as bees are our desires. The drops of honey are the plesures derived from the gratification of our desires and to which men are seen to be strongly addicted. Inspite of all these distresses, human being will always be craving for those pleasures and wanted to live in this world for ever.
The brahmin in this story is Jeeva. The forest is bondage of samsara. The wise will never entangle into this bondage. They will stay aloof and enjoy the eternal happiness. If at all they fell into this Samsara accidentally, they will immediately come out of it. O King Dhritarasthra! human being will always be craving for wordly sensual pleasures and forgets himself by dipping in this drainage pit. Soon after he lost his strength and power of energy, several diseases will overpower him. Meanwhile, he will become old. He lost his beauty and his body will become unfit to enjoy sensual pleasures. Atlast , he will meet a tragic death.
O King Dhritarashtra, our body itself is a chariot. Our wisdom is our charioteer. Our five sense organs are five horses. Our thoughts are reins. If the reigns are not strong, the horses will drag the chariot to an unknown destination. With our wisdom, we have to control the horses and save ourselves from the great distress. Since the day of our birth, we will be under the control of Yama. Our life is full of distresses. Virtuous people will use medicine called wisdom and put an end to their distresses and sorrows and keep the chariot under their control. The wise and learned, holding the reins of virtuous thoughts, control the chariot and drive it in a right path. He never frightens for death. At last they will attain Moksha. Therefore, O King Dhrita-rasthra! shed down your distress, sorrow and grief, and perform rituals to your sons, relatives and friends who died in this great war and allow them to go to higher regions in heaven.” said Vidura.
Even after hearing carefully and devotedly what has been said by Vidura, Dhritarashtra was lamenting for the death of his sons. Meanwhile, Veda Vyasa arrived there. Vidura and Sanjaya prostrated before him. Dhritarashtra was informed about the arrival of Veda Vyasa. Dhritarashtra saluted Veda Vyasa with trembled hands.
“O Saint Veda Vyasa! Look at my fate. I do not know why I am still alive. All my riches have gone. All my sons are dead. All my relatives and friends have perished in war. But I am still alive. My life is not leaving my body. I do not know what to do.” said Dhritarashtra in a distressed mood.
“O King Dhritarashtra! I have come here to console you. You are learned and wise. It is not proper on your part to lament like this for the death of your sons. These bodies are not eternall. Everybody who takes birth shall have to die one day or other. None can escape death. If you know this truth, you will not lament for the death of your kith and kin.
Now we will come to the point. Do you mean to say that the enmity between your sons and sons of Pandu arose without yout knowledge? Is your son not responsible for this great massacre? The entire Kuru clan was destroyed on account of your son. Why should you lament for your own fault? While the dice game was played, Vidura advised you to intervene and stop the game. You paid a deaf ear to his advice. You are reaping the consequences. Therefore dont worry for the past deeds. Think about future.
Anyhow, I will tell you a divine secret. Listen carefully. Once I attended a divine meeting. Indra, other divine bodies, saint Narada and other sages and saints were present there.
Bhoodevi also arrived there and asked Indra thus: “O divine bodies! Once you have shown much enthusiasim and promised to lessen my burden. For some reason or other, you have forgotten your promises. My burden is increasing day by day. Kindly lessen my burden.” prayed Bhoodevi.
Sri Maha Vishnu who was present there answered her: “O Bhoodevi! The time has come to lessen your burden. King Dhritarashtra will beget 100 children, the elder being Suyodhana. Suyodhana will lessen your burden. On account of him, there will be a great war called Kurukshetra war in which all the kings in the entire world will participate and perish. Suyodhana along with his hundred brothers will die. Your burden will be completely lessened.” said Maha Vishnu.
Having satisfied with his words, Bhoodevi went away. As per the words of Maha Vishnu, with “Kali Amsa”, Duryodhana was born as your son. He was wicked, greedy, covetous, and wrathful. He bears enmity with one and all. He committed many untoward deeds in the company of his brother Dussaasana, his uncle Sakuni and friend Karna. All this was done at the will of divine bodies. Therefore, you need not grieve for his death.
It appears you are entertaining a doubt in your mind whether Pandavas will respect you or not. You need not worry about it. No harm will be caused to you on account of Pandavas. Out of greediness, your son refused to give a due share in the kingdom to Pandavas. But Pandavas never attempted to cause harm either to you or to your sons. Besides that, they tried their level best to settle the matter amicably, by making a request for five villages for their sustenance. I also advised you and your son to settle the matter peacefully. But your son refused to hear our advice and reaped the consequences. Therefore, you need not grieve for the death of such wicked persons.
Dharma Raja bears compassion, love, affection not only towards human beings but also towards birds and animals. You know about his nature. Dharmaja has no grudge against you. Treat Pandavas as your sons and respect them. You are wise and learned. Burn your grief in the fire of your wisdom. Be peaceful and happy.” said Veda Vyasa.
“O Saint Veda Vyasa! with your immortal words, my mind has become peaceful. I will develop love and affection towards Pandavas. I will treat them as my own sons.” said Dhritarashtra. Veda Vyasa blessed Dhritarashtra and went away.
Dhritarashtra turned towards Sanjaya and said: “O Sanjaya! make arrangements to go to battle field. Let Gandhari and her daughters-in-law and other ladies make arrangements to go to battle field.”
Accordingly, Sanjaya made all arrangements for their travel. Gandhari could not even stand. Her legs were trembling. Her daughters-in-law were weeping with great grief. Kunti was consoling all of them. All of them were proceeding towards the battle field. Other ladies in Hastinapura who lost their husbands in the great battle also were proceeding to the battle field to identify the dead bodies of their husbands. They were all weeping loudly. Most of the males in Hastinapura died in the battle. None were there to console them. In every house, sounds of weeping, grieving were heard.
Beholding this, Vidura remained speachless. He never thought that the war will have such severe and dreadful consequences.
Meanwhile, Asvathama, Kritavarma and Kripacharya arrived there in the opposite direction. Beholding Dhritarashtra, Asvathama said:
“O King Dhritarashtra! your son Suyodhana, fought as a real hero and died in the battle field and attained higher regions in heaven. Except myself , Kripacharya and Kritavarma, the entire Kuru army was destroyed in the battle.” said Asvathama.
Beholding Gandhari, Kripacharya could not control his grief. “O Gandhari! your sons fought with great heroism and died in the battle field. None of your sons showed their back in the battle field. You need not grieve for their heroic death. Even this great victory did not bring Pandavas, any pleasure or happiness.
Bhimasena, without following any of the war principles, mercilessly hit Suyodhana below his waist and killed him. We three could not control our anger. Asvathama entered the camps of Pandavas and killed all the sons of Pandavas, Dhrishta-dyumna, Sikhandi and other Panchala kings, their entire army along with elephants and horses. Five Pandavas could not be killed by him. Krishna might have concealed them in an unknown place. Therefore, the victory of pandavas is nullified.Had Pandavas been there in their respective places, we would have killed all of them and would have fulfilled the last desire of Suyodhana.
Having known that we all three killed their sons and relatives, Pandavas might have been vigorously searching for us. Kindly permit us to leave.”so saying Krpiacharya, Kritavarma and Asvathama left that place on their respective chariots.
After proceeding for a distance, Kripacharya returned back to Hastinapura and Kritavarma left for Dwaraka. Asvathama proceeded towards Vyasa Ashram.
O King Janamejaya! I already told you what had happened between Asvathama and Pandavas at Vyasa Ashram.” told saint Vaisamyapayana. Saint Vaisampayana continued to tell further.
Then Dhritarashtra along with womenfolk proceeded towards the battle field. Dharmaja and Krishna received information about the arrival of Dhritarashtra. Dharmaja along with his brothers and Sri Krishna proceeded towards Dhritarashtra to receive him. Dharmaja’s mind was filled with great anguish that Dhritarashtra was coming to battle field, mourning for the death of all his sons. He was going by walk to meet Dhritarashtra. Satyaki, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula Sahadeva, Droupadi and Krishna accompanied him. Beholding Dharmaja, the womenfolk of Kourava family raised hue and cry. They began to abuse Dharmaja: “Oh! he is Dharma Raja! Does he know Dharma at all! Has he got compassion, kindness or pity towards others. Mercilessly he massacred his fathers, uncles, brothers, sons, preceptors in battle. Has he got any mercy towards them?” they cursed him. Some of them went against Dharmaja and chastised him. “How can you kill your own preceptor who taught you all sciences.?” . Some of them caught hold of him: “How can you kill the husband of your own sister, Jayadharadha? How cruel you are? Come on. Have this kingdom. Rule this burial ground for ever” several cursed Dharmaja. Dharmaja did not open his mouth. Taking advantage of that some more accosted him: “O Dharmaja! On account of you only Abhimanyu was killed. All the sons of Droupadi were killed at dead of night. You swallowed all your brothers-in-law only to save your own life. Are you so selfish?” they all scolded Dharmaja. Bearing all thoses curses and rebukes, Dharmaja approached Dhritarashtra. The aide of Dhritarashtra informed him that Dharmaja was before him. Dhritarashtra could not control his grief. He hugged Dharmaja and bursted out. Dharmaja said that Bhimasena, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva are waiting for his blessings. On hearing the name of Bhimasena, Dhritarashtra’s face became wild. The entire blood in his body flowed into his face. It became reddish. His heart was burning with great wrath. Dhritarashtra was about to hug Bhimasena. Having expected this development in advance, Krishna got ready an iron idol resembling Bhimasena’s height and weight. Immediately, Krishna dragged Bhimasena out and pushed the iron idol before Dhritarashtra. Dhritarashtra hugged that iron idol with great force and that huge iron idol was crushed into pieces. Some pieces pierced in tothe body of Dhritarashtra, causing simple injuries. Dhritarashtra’s face was glowing with great satisfaction that he could kill the killer of his own sons. But he concealed his feelings in his mind and was pretending sorry for the death of Bhimasena. Sri Krishna patted Dhritarashtra and said: “O King Dhritarashtra! You need not worry about the death of Bhimasena . You hugged an iron idol resembling Bhimasena. Bhimasena is safe. Knowing your intention in advance, I saved Bhimasena by pushing an iron idol before you. O King Dhritarashtra! after all, Bhimasena is nothing before you and your strength. Not only Bhimasena, none in this world could match you in vigour and valour. In the great distress caused by the death of your sons, you tried to kill Bhimasena. But his death is not in your hands. O King Dhritarashtra! even if you kill all the five Pandavas, will your sons return back from heaven. Unnecessarily, you might have been blamed for killing Bhimasena.” said Krishna. Dhritarashtrabowed his head with shame. Krishna continued to say: “O King Dhritarashtra! Youhave studied, Vedas, Upanishads and all Puranas and digested the essense of those scriptures. But, you strill remain ignorant and is blaming others. Myself, Bhishma, Drona, Vidura and other wise and learned adivsed you many a time. You have not heard our words. What had happened is nothing but your own making. If Bhimasena and Arjuna were in the battle field, who else will gain victory. Your mind is not under your control. You are unable to control your mind. Had you chastised your son at right time and kept him in right and virtuous path, this calamity would not have happened. Having known that, on the pretext of winning in the dice game, your sons were trying to disrobe your own daughter-in-law, Droupadi, you did not try to avert that untoward incident. But your heart is burning with great wrath for Bhimasena’s accomplishment of his promises by killing your sons. Is it proper on your part? Kindly remember your sons’ greediness, covetousness and mischievous behaviour, shed your anger.” said Sri Krishna. “Krishna! what you said is totally true and correct. In a great grief caused by the death of all my sons, I misbehaved with Bhimasena. I am feeling ashamed of it. I became wise with your wise teachings. I will respect Pandavas as my own sons.” said Dhritarashtra. Then Dhritarashtra hugged all pandavas and blessed them with long life. Then he advised Pandavas to take the blessings of Gandhari. Pandavas headed by Dharmaja came near Gandhari seeking her blessings. Her heart also was bruning with great wrath on account of the death of her sons. She was about to curse Dharmaja. Meanwhile, Veda Vyasa arrived there. All prostrated before that great saint. Veda Vyasa advised Gandhari thus: “O Gandhari! it is not proper to curse Dharmaja. Shed your anger and be peaceful. While your son was going for war, he sought your blessings. Remember the words with which you blessed your son. “Where there is Dharma there is victory”. It has become true. In the 18 days war,Pandavas acquired victory. As per your words, Dharma gained victory. Therefore Pandavas are virtuous. Therefore, shed your hatredness and try to find the virtues in Pandavas. Past is past. There is no use of keeping those things in mind. Bless Pandavas as your sons..” said Veda Vyasa. On hearing the words of Veda Vyasa, Gandhari remained peaceful. “O Saint Veda Vyasa! I never bore grudge against Pandavas. I never intended any harm to them. With the great grief caused by the death of my sons, I talked like that. Pandavas are not only sons of Kunti, my sons also. I know the character and conduct of my son, Suyodhana. With ill advises of my brother, Sakuni and his friend karna, Suyodhana waged this war by which the entire Kuru clan was destroyed. Provoked by my son, Suyodhana, Pandavas fought in the battle and killed by sons. I never felt for that. But, in the very presence of Sri Krishna, Bhimasena hit my son below the waist, against all war principles. Is it just and proper? As a mother of a son, will it not cause distress to my mind? Killing and dying in war in common and natural. But killing a warrior against war principles is nothing but betrayal.” said Gandhari. On hearing these words, Bhimasena who was standing there shivered. He fell on the feet of Gandhari and said: “O mother Gandhari! Kindly excuse me. I do not know whether it is dharma or adharma. But I did not as a measure of self-defence. Suyodhana is more stronger and skilful in mace war. I know that I cannot win the battle with him. Hence I resorted to that course. O mother Gandhari! kindly think for a while. Is it proper on the part of Suyodhana to insult Dharmaja in open assembly? Is it proper on the part of Suyodhana to drag Droupadi to open assembly and order to disrobe her. Is it proper on his part to offer his thigh to Droupadi. Unable to control my great wrath, I promised to hit his thighs in the war. I fulfilled my promise. You know pretty well that for Kshatriyas, fulfilling ones own promises, is the utmost dharma. I discharged my promise in this manner. I would have broke the thighs on Suyodhana in the open assembly itself. But I remained silent unable to violate Dharmaja’s word. Hence we went to forests and suffered there for 12 long years. O mother Gandhari! I never meant to wage war against Suyodhana. You will not find fault with me if you hear the words spoken to by me at the time when Sri Krishna was sent an emissary to Kuru assembly. “Suyodhana! We are all brothers. There may be differences amongst us. But we should not give scope for others to point their finger against us. Let us heed to the words of elders and divide the kingdom. Let us enjoy our respective shares and feel happy.” But your son, Suyodhana, never paid any heed to our words. He developed enmity against us. Hence an avoidable war has become inevitable. To regain his share in the kingdom, Dharmaja fought the war. To discharge the promises made by me in the open assembly, I participated in the war. As duty bound, we fought. O mother, Gandhari! you are wise and learned. You have to decide whether we are right or wrong?” said Bhimasena. Gandhari thought for a while. “My son Bhimasena! what you said may be correct. But, you would have killed my son in fair fight, without contravening the war principles. Anyhow, you have done it. Leave it. Vrikodara! (a person with wolf-like stomache), killing enemy in the battle is natural. Will anybody drink the blood of a human being? You did it. As an wolf, you sucked the blood of my son, Dussaasana! Is it Dharma!” asked Gandhari “O mother Gandhari!I am not such a cruel animal. I never drank any human blood. Of course, with the great wrath generated by disrobing Droupadi, I made promise in the open assembly that I will drink the blood of Dussasana by breaking his chest. To discharge that promise, I broke the chest of Dussasana and just touched my lips to his blood. I never drank the blood like a Rakshasa. O mother Gandhari! I am also a human being, but not a Rakshasa. There is one more thing to be clarified. While I was killing Dussaasana, the prominent heroes in Kuru army surrounded me with their forces. Had I kept quiet, they would have cut me into pieces. As a measure of self defence, I acted like a demon by applying the blood over my face and body and pretended like drinking his blood with both hands. In fact I never drank his blood. O mother Gandhari! I know that it is a great sin to taste the blood of a co-human being Am I such a fool to drink the blood of my brother. O mother, trust me, I never drank the blood of Dussaasana.” prayed Bhimasena. Gandhari was not satisfied with his explanation “O Bhimasena! I got 100 sons. You have all my 100 sons mercilessly, without leaving atleast one son, to look after this blind parents.Dont you find a single son amongst the hundred, who did not cause harm to you. Cannot you discharge your promises by leaving atleast one of my sons! Will he come in the way of your brother Dharmaja, in ruling the entire Kuru kingdom? Where is Dharmaja? Where is he? Let him come before me.” shouted Gandhari with anger. Dharmaja with shivering hands stood before Gandhari “O mother Gandhari! I am here. I am before you. I am the sinner who killed your hundred sons. I am wicked. I am evil minded. O mother Gandhari! dont forgive me. Destroy me in the fire of your curses. O mother! not only your sons, I caused the sacrifice of all the kings on the earth in the battle field. Do as you like. I am here to bear it. O mother Gandhari! why for this kingdom without my sons, brotehrs,relatives and friends Why for this life in this body? Why for all these royal pleasures for thsi wretch?” Dharmaja wept loudly. Gandhari remained speechless. She sighed and looked down. Her looks from underneath the mask she tied around her eyes, fell upon the toe and fingers of Dharmaja’s feet and with the power of those looks, they became reddish. Beholding this, theother brothers of Dharmaja went aside. In a moment, Gandhari remained peaceful. She put her hand on the head of Dharmaja and blessed him. “My dear son Dharmaja! Go and meet your mother Kunti and take her blessings” said Gandhari. Having a sigh of relief, Pandavas went near their mother, Kunti and sought her blessings While retiring to forests, Pandavas left Kunti in Hastinapura. After long lapse of 13 years, they met their mother in the battle field. She heard that her sons underwent untold woes and miseries during their 13years exile Her mind was filled with great sorrow. Later, she learnt that she lost all her grand sons in the battle. She was afflicted with great grief. On seeing her sons, after 13 years, her motherly love and affection flowed down in the shape of tears. She hugged her sons and wept. “O my sons, do you remember this poor mother after thirteen long years. are you safe. whereever you are I also prayed God for your welfare.” Beholding Droupadi as an embodiment of sorrow and grief, Kunti hugged her and wept “O Droupadi! where are my grnad sons. Where is Abhimanyu? Where have they gone? Why they have not come to see me? Tell me Tell me” she shook Droupadi in a great grief. With the words of her mother-in-law, the grief of Droupadi rose to the hilt. She fell down like a tree cut at the root. Kunti, controlled her grief, lifted Droupadi and hugged her and consoled. Kunti took Droupadi to Gandhari for her blessings. Droupadi fell on the feet of Gandhari. Not it is for Gandhari to console both Kunti and Droupadi. “Drouadi! console yourself. Even Pandavas are lamenting for the loss of their sons. Look at your mother-in-law Kunti. She is also grieving for the lost of her grand children. O Drouadi! we both are sailing in the same boat. I lost all my sons. You also lost your sons Predecting this calamity, Vidura advised my son, Suyodhana, many a time to behave properly. Even myself could not control my sons and avert their wicked deeds. We cannot do anything. Everything is in the hands of fate. Time decided our fate. Console yourself” Gandhari consoled Droupadi.
MAHA BHARAT
STREE PARVA FIRST CHAPTER CONCLUDED.
OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT.

Mahabharat
Stree Parva
Second chapter.
In Naimisaaranya, Sooti, the storyteller, told the Story of Maha Bharata to Saint Sounaka and other sages and saints on the occasion of Satrayaga, as told by Saint Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya.
After consoling Draupadi, Gandhari also accompanied Dhritarashtra to the battlefield. With the blessings of Veda Vyasa, though she was tying a cotton band around her head, covering her eyes, she could see the entire battlefield minutely and she could identify each and every dead body in the battlefield. Gandhari could see from distance but as if from a near point, the field of battle, terrible to behold.
Gandhari was proceeding further, viewing the battlefield from all angles. She saw broken chariots, broken swords, pieces of bows and arrows, dead bodies of horses and elephants, formed into heaps. Scattered all over with bones and covered with streams of blood, that field was strewn with thousands upon thousands of dead bodies on every side. Trunkless heads and headless trunks were scattered everywhere. Those who ruled great kingdoms were lying dead, with their mouths open. Blood was flowing like canals. The swords, bows, arrows and maces were lying there formed into heaps. Some dead bodies were crushed into pieces, unable to be identified. Vultures flying in the sky were coming down to take away parts of the dead bodies. Jackals and wolves were busily engaged in eating the dead bodies.
Beholding these ghastly scenes, the heart of Gandhari was afflicted with great sorrow.
“My son’s covetousness and foolishness led to this great disaster,” she thought.
Saint Vyasa told Dhritarashtra to perform mass cremation to all the dead bodies lying in the battle field and went away.
All Pandavas and Sri Krishna accompanied Dhritarashtra to the battlefield. The daughters-in-law of Gandhari were searching for the dead bodies of their husbands. Along with them ladies belonging to the Kaurava family and others who came from Hastinapura were also searching for the dead bodies of their husbands, sons, brothers etc. who had laid their lives for the sake of the King, Suyodhana.
All ladies were crying aloud, calling their kith and kin by names and searching for the dead bodies. Beholding the heaps of dead bodies, some ladies fainted. Some ladies were calling their husbands, sons and brothers by names and beating their chests and heads with both hands.
Beholding this, the heart of Gandhari was broken into pieces. She called Krishna and said:
“O Krishna! Look at the daughters-in-law of Dhritarshtra, how they are lamenting for their lost husbands, sons and brothers, how they are searching for the dead bodies of their husbands etc. If one finds the dead of another lady’s husband, she was calling her crying aloud.
Krishna! The eyes of those who bore grudge and hatred against my sons, have now become cool, I suppose. Why have you punished them like this? What sin have they committed? Look at the dead bodies of Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Salya, Drupada and see how their faces are glowing, even after their death. Having enjoyed royal pleasures throughout their life, they are now lying on the ground unattended. They would never wake up from their beds without hearing the praises of Vandis and Magadhas. Now they are hearing the howls of Jackals. Several kings, who would not sleep without soft beds, are now lying on dirty ground covered with dust.
How can you bear all these things Krishna! Is it not your own greatness? Look at that side. Some of my daughters-in-law are searching for the heads of their husbands! They are weeping and searching hither and thither. Some are holding the heads of their husbands and are searching for the related bodies. They are weeping, as they are unable to find the respective bodies. Some are collecting the parts of the bodies of their husbands and are joining them to identify the dead bodies. As some bodies are eaten away by wolves and jackals, the ladies are not able to find the bodies of their husbands. What sin I have committed to behold all these scenes. I am beholding my sons, daughters in law, brothers, relatives and friends in this pitiable condition.” Gandhari was lamenting for the deaths of her sons.
Krishna did not speak a single word but simply followed her. Meanwhile, Gandhari found the dead body of Suyodhana at a distance. Her legs and hands trembled. She fell down near the dead body of her son. She was weeping loudly.
“O my son Suyodhana! What is this? Why are you rolling on the ground filled with dirt and dust? I am your mother, Gandhari. Dont you respect me by standing? Krishna! Krishna! Look at my son, Suyodhana. While he was proceeding for the battle, he came to me for my blessings. I blessed him that “Dharma will triumph”. Do you know why I blessed him in that manner? Krishna! those who witnessed the great insult meted out to Pandavas and Draupadi in open assembly, feared that some day or other, Dharma will triumph and the destruction of Kauravas is imminent. I also thought like that. Hence I blessed my son in that manner.
I never supported Suyodhana as my son. I also told Suyodhana that it would be better to die in the battlefield instead of returning home facing defeat. Then only he will attain higher regions after death. My son made my second word come true. I am lamenting for his death, as he is my son. I never feel for his death as a hero.
Krishna, why should I lament for the death of Suyodhana, who fought and died in the battlefield like a great hero.The only calamity is that none are there to look after me and my husband during our old age. Vidura told my husband and my son many a time several morals. Had they paid heed to atleast one word, this disastrous great mass massacre would have been averted.
Krishna, my son Suyodhana, accompanied by eleven akshouhini strong army, is now lying on bare earth in dirt and dust, unattended. All my sons are lost. I am unable to behold the distress and suffering of my daughters-in-law lamenting for the deaths of their husbands. I do not know what sin they have committed to suffer this mental agony. They are innocent. They do not know the politics. They do not know how and for what this battle was fought. But they are the worst sufferers of this battle.
Krishna! Look at my eldest daughter-in-law, how she is weeping beating her head and chest. The dead body of Suyodhana is drenched with her tears. Behold the fate of my other daughers-in-law. They are roaming like mad people, weeping for the deaths of their husbands. What sin have they committed to be afflicted with this mental agony?
All my sons are dead and are enjoying in heaven. But their wives are deeply lamenting for their deaths. It appears there is no end for their sorrow. They are too young and they have not yet fully enjoyed sensual pleasures with their husbands.
No, it is not their fate. It is all due to the misdeeds committed by me and my husband. Otherwise, Dharmaja would not have destroyed my entire family.” lamenting Gandhari.
Krishna never uttered a single word. Unless the entire grief caused by the deaths of her sons comes out, her mind will not remain peaceful, Krishna thought. Meanwhile, Gandhari found the dead body of Dussaasana with the broken chest.
“Behold Krishna! he is Dussaasana, the other son of mine, killed by Bhimasena with his mighty mace, impelled by Draupadi and the recollection of his woes at the time of dice game. Bhimasena quaffed all his blood by breaking his chest. O Krishna, at that time, I told Dussaasana--- “O my son Dussaasana! Draupadi is under the care and protection of Sri Krishna. It is not safe on your part to insult her in such a heinous manner. Have you done this knowing fully well about the dire consequences? Dont you know about the vigour and valour of Bhimasena? It is not too late. Respect Draupadi. Your uncle, Sakuni is a wretch and wicked. Dont follow his words. Shed his companionship. Save the respect and glory of Kuru Vamsa”.....Krishna. .nobody paid heed to my words As a result, they all met with this kind of miserable death at the hands of Bhimasena. Who can change their fate?
Bhimasena tolerated with great patience, his indignity and indignation and waited for an opportunity like a cobra. He took revenge by killing all my sons in the battle field. Krishna! Taking revenge is justifiable but breaking the chest of Dussaasana and quaffing his blood is brutal. Can a great hero like Bimasena do like this? Will Bimasena get a great name and fame by doing like this? Will any mother tolerate this?
Krishna! look at the body of Vikarna lying amidst the dead bodies of elephants. His wife is weeping, sitting by the side of her husband. All his vital parts have been eaten away by vultures.
Krishna! Here is my another son Durmukha, killed by Bhimasena. His face was half-eaten by wolves. I do not know how could he be killed before whom no foe could stand and fight.
O Krishna! Youthful and handsome, and alwlays waited upon and served by most beautiful ladies, my son Vivimsati, is now sleeping amidst the dead bodies, stained with dust and blood. Now he is surrounded and waited upon by vultures.” told Gandhari to Sri Krishna.
Now she approached the dead body of Abhimanyu. Beholding that young and handsome youth, Gandhari told Krishna:
“O Krishna! He is Abhimanyu, your nephew, who resembled a fierce and proud hero, he who, without a follower, alone pierced into the impenetrable array of Drona and killed all of them, is now sleeping alone, having succumbed to death. Krishna! His face has not been dimmed even after death. The beautiful daughter of Virata and wife of Abhimanyu, overwhelmed with great grief at the sight of her heroic husband, is indulging in lamentation. Krishna, kindly hear what she says:
“O Abhimanyu! Where have you gone leaving your mother Subhadra and father Arjuna. They are all waiting for you. Your maternal uncle Krishna is calling you. Why you are silent without speaking a single word. I heard that Drona, Karna, Asvathama are embodiment of Dharma. How they all surrounded you and killed you mercilessly. Is this called heroism? Neither the acquisition of vast Kuru kingdom nor the defeat of all foes, conduces to the joy of Pandavas bereft of you.”
Krishna, it appears there is no end for her grief.
Krishna! Look at her mother, Sudheshna, lamenting for the death of her son Uttara Kumara and her husband Virata. At this age, she lost her husband, son and son-in -law. How can she tolerate this great grief.
Krishna! Please come here. Look at the dead body of great hero, Karna. All his wives, with dishevelled tresses and loud wails of grief, are sitting around that fallen hero.
Krishna! look at the dead body of Bahlika He appears to be in deep and sound sleep.
Krishna! Here is the dead body of my son in law, Saindhava, the husband of my only daughter, Dussala. At your instance, Arjuna killed Saindhava brutally. Is it not! But Saindhava was half-dead when he lusted Draupadi while she was alone in forest. On that day, Pandavas spared his life, beholding the face of their sister, Dussala. Today, Arjuna himself mercilessly killed Saindhava, without considering him as his sister’s husband. Alas! Dussala is searching for the head of her husband but in vain. Krishna! can there be a greater grief to me than that my daughter of tender age should be a widow and all my daughters-in-law should become lordless. Arjuna left all those who brutally killed his son, Abhimanyu but killed Saindhava who just stopped Bhimasena and others from proceeding further. Is it a just act?
Krishna! look at the dead body of Salya who is equivalent to Dharmaja in virtues. But Salya fought on behalf of Suyodhana, drove the chariot of Karna, and made him to suffer with his pungent, arrow-like sharp words. The wives and children of Salya surrounded his dead body and are grieving for his death.
Krishna, look at the dead body of Bhagadatta who is capable of conquering even Mahendra. But, out of love and affection towards Arjuna, you got him killed.
Krishna! Behold Bhishma, the oldest in Kuru clan, taking rest on arrow bed, as if Sun is resting on earth. Krishna, after the departure of Bhishma, who will guide the Kuru dynasty?
Drona also is equivalent to Mahendra in prowess. He read all Vedas and Sastras. He taught Dharnurveda to all the princes of Kuru Kingdom. But Dhrishtadyumna mercilessly cut his head while Drona discarded his bow and arrows. Krishna, do you think it just on the part of Dhrishtadyumna? The wife of Drona, the mother of Asvathama is weeping loudly for the death of her husband. The students of Drona are making arrangements for his funeral. As no fuel is available, they are setting the pyre by collecting all the broken chariots, flag poles, bows and arrows. All of them are going round the pyre in ante direction and are proceeding towards the river for taking holy bath.
Krishna! Behold the dead body of Bhoorisravasa, son of Somadatta. Krishna! in your very presence, Arjuna cut his arm while your brother, Satyaki cut his head. His wife and sons are weeping for his tragic death. Bhoorisravasa is a virtuous warrior. But, Arjuna cut his arm while he was engaged in fighting with Satyaki. Is it a proper act?
Satyaki killed him while he was under Prayopavesa, discarding his bow and arrows. All this had happened in your very presence. Do you feel happy for the unscrupulous act of Arjuna and Satyaki?” asked Gandhari.
Krishna, with smiling face, followed her without speaking a single word. Meanwhile, Gandhari found the dead body of her own brother, Sakuni.
“Krishna! Look at this dead body. He is my own brother, Sakuni. He was killed by his nephew, Nakula. He is a wizard but his wisdom did not work before you. He played wicked dice game with Dharmaja and sent Pandavas to forests. Today, he lost his life in the game of war. He was the root cause for fomenting enmity between Pandavas and Kauravas. My son blindly trusted him. Suyodhana is a fool. Otherwise, he would not have trusted Sakuni.
Krishna! These are the dead bodies of mighty warriors and Kings of Magadha and Kalinga. This is the dead body of Brihadbala, King of Kosala who enjoyed royal pleasures. Now he is lying amidst thousands of unidentified dead bodies. His wives are grieving for his death.
These are the dead bodies of Kekaya Kings who were killed by Drona. All their wives surrounded their dead bodies and are lamenting for their miserable death. The sons of these Kings are performing their funeral ceremonies and are proceeding towards the river for holy bath. Some of their wives are weeping, keeping the heads of their husbands on their lap.
Krishna! have you identified this body. He is Dhrishtaketu, son of Sisupala, your nephew. This is the body of Suketu, son of Dhrishtaketu. Both father and son died on the same spot. Their wives and mothers are grieving for their deaths.
Krishna! Do you know Vinda and Anuvinda. They are the kings of Avanti. They are lying on the ground as uprooted trees.
Krishna! beholding all this, I have a great doubt. Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Asvathama, Bhoorisravasa, Kripacharya, Saindhava, Kritavarma, my son Suyodhana are all Athiradhas and Maharadhas. Pandavas also equally took part in the battle along with the above warriors. How you, your brother, Satyaki and five Pandavas survived, escaping death, while all others perished. Is it not a miracle? I cannot believe it. Unless all of you are endowed with enormous divine power, it is not possible.
But the same God did injustice to all my sons. I am feeling sorry for that. God deprived me all of my sons. Bhimasena did not spare a single son to look after us in this old age. What can I do? It is all our fate. Had we followed the advice given by you in the open assembly, this mass massacre would have been averted. Not only you, Bhishma, Drona, Vidura advised us in right direction. We paid no attention to any of your advices.
The words spoken by you in the open assembly have become true. I know you are solely responsible for this great disaster and destruction. Instead of sitting idle and preaching morals, you could have, even by force, prevented both sides from entering into war. Why you have not done that? Are you not capable of doing so? There are several elders, wise and learned, in the Kuru assembly. I know, you all conspired together and spoiled the mission for mediation. Hence you are all responsible for this great mass massacre.
Krishna! it appears to my mind that in order to see the end of Suyodhana, you enacted the drama of mediation and fomented the ill feelings between Kauravas and Pandavas. Hence your mission failed. This is all your own making. You have to reap the consequences.
Krishna! Listen! If I am truthful and faithful to my husband throughout my life, your entire Yadava community will perish soon by fighting with each other. This is my curse, for what you have done to the Kuru community. Besides that, exactly after one year 36 days from today, you will be brutally killed and your dead body will lie on the earth, unattended. This is my curse.” said Gandhari.
Sri Krishna smiled and said: “O Mother Gandhari! your curse is not new to me. It is already there. On a previous occasion, when some Yadavas insulted a saint, that saint cursed the entire Yadava community in the same manner. By God’s will, the same words came out of your mouth. There is yet another secret. Yadavas will never be killed by others. So they have to kill each other. Therefore, your curse is nothing but a reiteration of the earlier curse. O mother Gandhari, please get up. We have to make arrangements for the funerals of all those who died in this war.” said Krishna.
Then, Gandhari and Krishna proceeded towards Dhritarashtra. On the way, Sri Krishna told Gandhari: “O mother, Gandhari, are you not aware of the evil deeds commited by Suyodhana and Dussaasana. Even myself, Bhishma, Drona, Bahlika and even their father, Dhritarashtra, could not stop them from doing so. Their wicked deeds and mischievous acts culminated into this great war. Hence, how am I responsible for what had happened? Kindly, put an end to your grief. You are the mother of great warriors. Your sons fought in the war and died as great heroes. They attained higher regions after their death.” said Krishna. Dhritarashtra asked Dharmaja: “Dharmaja! you know better about the statistics of the war losses on either side. Can you tell me how many died on both sides?” asked Dhritarashtra. “My dear Paternal Uncle, Dhritarasthra! of the 18 akshouhini army, 76,00,20,000 are Kshatriyas. 24,320 belong to other castes. As all of them died in the battle field, they attained higher regions. Some have fled away with fear from battle field. They attained Guhyaka Loka. But none of them who died in the battle field will enter hell.” said Dharmaja. “Dharmaja! some of them who died in the war have no near relatives. Is there any wrong in performing funeral ceremonies to them?” asked Dhritarashtra. “The battle itself if a sacred yajna. Those who died in the war sacrified their lives in this sacred yajna. Therefore, they are all eligible for funeral rituals.” said Dharmaja. After getting proper sanction from Dhritarashtra, Dharmaja sent for Dhoumya, Vidura and Sanjaya and deputed them to perform mass funerals to all those who died in the battle field, except those who were born in Bharata clan. Then, Dharmaja, with the help of Brahmins, arranged pyres for Suyodhana, Dussaasana, Karna, Salya, Abhimanyu, Ghatotkacha, Virata, Dhrishtaketu etc., and completed the funeral ceremonies. As sufficient fuel was not available, they gathered the broken parts of chariots, wheels, flagposts, bows and arrows and arranged pyres for funeral ceremonies. Dharmaja arranged mass funerals to all unidentified bodies of Kshatriyas. Later, Dharmaja, Dhritarashtra and other Pandavas went to the nearby river for holy bath. Dhritarashtra and Dharmaja offered tarpanas, tilodakas and dharmodakas to all the near relatives who were born in Bharata clan. At that time, Kunti, with tearful eyes, said loudly: “All of you gathered here, please listen. Karna, the bosom friend of Suyodhana, is none other than my own son, elder to Dharmaja. He was not born to Radha. He is not Radheya. He is Kaunteya. He is eldest brother of all Pandavas and Kauravas. While I was unmarried, with the blessings of Saint Doorvasa, Karna was born to me through Soorya (Sun God) with natural armour and ear rings. Therefore, O Dharmaja, Karna is also entitled for Tilodakas as he is your elder brother.” said Kunti. On hearing these words, Dharmaja fainted. Rest were amazed and astonished. There was dead silence for some time. With great difficulty, Dharmaja opened his mouth “O mother Kunti, how can you bear this burning fire in your upper cloth, all these years. Why did you not reveal this truth to me earlier. Who else is there to attack Karna except Arjuna. O mother, why you gave birth to Karna as eldest of all. The boon given to you by Saint Doorvasa has become a curse to all of us. We are left with great grief. Had we known earlier that Karna was our elder brother, our attitude towards him would have been different. This mass massacre would not have occurred.” Dharmaja lamented for the death of Karna. Immediately, in the name of Karna, Dharmaja performed all the necessary rituals and offered Tilodakas. Even Dhritarashtra also offered Tilodakas as he was born in Bharata clan. Dharmaja sent for the wives, daughters-in-law of Karna and regarded them as his kinsfolk and consoled them. Dharmaja performed all rituals and offered, in the name of Karna, cows, gold, silver etc., to brahmins as charity.
MAHA BHARAT
STREE PARVA SECOND CHAPTER CONCLUDED.
WITH THIS, STREE PARVA CONCLUDED
OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT.

BOOK10 SOUPTIKA PARVA MV SUBRAMANYUM



BOOK10 SOUPTIKA PARVA
Mahabharat
Souptika parva
first chapter.
In Naimisaaranya, on the occasion of Satra Yaga, Sooti, the story teller, told Sounaka and other great sages and saints, the story of Mahabharata, as told by Saint Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya.
Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to tell him in detail, all the events that had happened, commencing from Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma, leaving Suyodhana. Sanjaya continued to say:
“O King Dhritarashtra! Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma proceeded on their chariots towards the camps of Pandavas. At that time, there was jubilant atmosphere in Pandava camps. All were singing, dancing, eating, drinking and were in a joyous and hilarious mood. Asvathama thought that it was not the proper time to enter Pandava camps. Then they proceeded towards east and stopped at a pond, near a huge banion tree.
They performed the evening rituals. Meanwhile, darkness plunged in. With the available leaves and branches, they arranged beds. They lay down on their beds for sleep. Kripacharya and Kritavarma slept. But Asvathama did not get sleep. He was sitting and looking at all sides.
He observed that innumerable crows were living on the branches of banian tree, in their nests. All the crows and their kids were sleeping in their nests. At that time, one owl, slowly, without making any noise, came near those nests, gained entrance into the nests and began to kill the kids of the crows. The owl cut the necks of some crows, broke the legs and wings of some crows. In that manner, the owl killed all the kids of the crows speedily, without making any noise.
Asvathama observed this from a distance. A wonderful idea sparked in his mind. “Yes. this is the only way to kill the enemies. The owl gave me a wonderful message through its acts. I will also kill all Pandavas, their relatives and friends, while they are in deep and sound sleep. To discharge my promise made to Suyodhana, this is the only way. Without the help of any army, I cannot fulfil this task. Without any hesitation, now I will enter the camps of Pandavas and kill the Pandavas, their sons, Panchalas, their relatives and friends and their army, while they are sleeping, mercilessly.
I should do this tonight itself. I should do it while Suyodhana is alive. Suyodhana should have his last breath, after hearing from me that all Pandavas, their sons, Panchalas their friends and relatives are dead. I will tell him that Pandavas are no more. I have to thank this owl for giving me this wonderful message. I should not hesitate whether it is good or bad, whether it is Dharma or Adharma.
So far as I know, according to the ancient scripts, enemies should be attacked and killed by attacking them face to face, by attacking them while they were in their camps, by attacking them while they were passing through a narrow path, by attacking them while they were sleeping during nights. As I am adopting Kshatriya Dharma, those rules will apply to me also. Even otherwise, Pandavas never followed any rules, principles or virtues while they were killing Bhishma, Drona and Karna. When they shamelessly adopted Adharma why should I crave for Dharma. Therefore, killing unscrupulous Pandavas while they are sleeping is Dharma and also a virtuous act.”Asvathama decided for himself.
Asvathama woke up his uncle Kripacharya and his friend Kritavarma. “Uncle Kripacharya, Kritavarma! listen to me. Pandavas, without following any principles, broke the thighs of Suyodhana. King Suyodhana is now rolling on the ground, in a pitiable condition. That wretch, Bhimasena, kicked Suyodhana, with his left leg on his head. In our presence, Suyodhana is feeling helpless. Tell me what to do.” asked Asvathama.
“Asvathama! we do not know what is passing on in your mind. Tell me what you are thinking about it. Anyhow, as you have asked me, I will tell few words. Before commencement of any work, man-made trials and God’s help are quite essential. Without any one of the above, you cannot fulfil any task. Therefore, God’s help and support is a must. If you do anything without infringing Dharma, God will certainly help you and you will get good results. In the beginning, some may get favourable results, by infringing Dharma. But, in the long run, they have to suffer. This is what exactly happened in the case of Suyodhana.
Without heeding the words of Vidura and Krishna, out of extreme wrath and pride, Suyodhana insulted Pandavas and Droupadi in open assembly. Now he is reaping the consequences. Therefore, we have to proceed further, without violating Dharma.
We will all go to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. Vidura also will be there. We will tell them the present state of affairs. We will follow what they say. Vidura will always follow Dharma. This is my opinion. Now you are our Commander. Think for a while and take a decision.” said Kripacharya.
“Uncle Kripacharya! Dharma will be changing from time to time and place to place. What is Dharma today may not be Dharma after some time. Dharma of a poorman is quite different from the Dharma of a richest person. Therefore, what I follow is Dharma. I will follow myDharma without fear of death. Though I was born as Brahmin, due to my misfortune, I followed Kshatriya Dharma. After such a long time, I cannot revert back to the virtuous life fit for Brahmans. I will continue as Kshatriya.
One wretched fellow killed my father, violently and mercilessly. He is still alive. While the killer of my fahter is still alive, how can I move peacefully. Today I will kill him. There is a plan. Now all our enemies are in deep and sound sleep. This is fit and proper time to kill all of them. Besdies that, they are not aware of our survival. They will never entertain any idea that I will come and kill them. I will enter their camps and attack them while they are in sound sleep. I will cut their necks. I will transform their camps into burial grounds filled with deadbodies. I should see the corpse of the killer of my father amidst those dead bodies.
I will tell how I kill that wretch. I will catch the neck of Dhrishtadyumna, throw him down on the ground. I will never use any arrow or knife. I will kill him as if he is a beast. I will kill Pandavas and their sons mercilessly. I will offer their blood to my father as a ritual. This is my promise. This is my ultimate task.” told Asvathama.
Kripacharya had a patient hearing to the words of Asvathama. “Asvathama! There is nothing wrong in killing a person who killed your father. For that, you are following a specific method, for which, I have no objection. Myself and Kritavarma also will extend our cooperation and be helpful to you in this regard. Now we are all tired. Let us take rest for tonight. Tomorrow morning we ill continue our efforts. You will certainly vanquish our enemies. If you and I are in the battle field, none can stand before us. If Kritavarma is by our side, victory will be ours. Therefore, for the present, remove your armour and take rest. Tomorrow morning, we three will attack Pandavas, Panchalas and their army in the battle field. Either we kill them or we will be killed by them, something will happen. We will never return back with empty hands.” said Kripacharya.
“Uncle Kripacharya! In this world, one who is enraged with wrath, addicted to earn money, blind with lust, will never get sleep. Now my body is burning with anger. My blood is boiling when I think about my father’s death. I have to kill my enemies and discharge my promise made to Suyodhana. Till then I never get sleep. Kripacharya! we have no army. We cannot attack Pandavas during day time because they are always surrounded by Arjuna and Krishna. Therefore, tonight itself, I will massacre our enemies while they are sleeping. Kindly dont discourage me.
Tonight, while all Pandavas, Panchalas, sons of Droupadi, their troops are in deep sleep, I will enter their camps and kill all of them mercilessly This is my final decision. After informing Suyodhana about the death of our enemies. I will have sound sleep” said Asvathama.
“Asvathama! You are enraged with great wrath. You are not in a position to distinguish between good and bad, proper and improper. dharma and adharma. Kindly follow a virtuous path. Shed your anger and cruelty and listen to me carefully.
According to the existing Dharma, people who are sleeping, who discarded their arms, whose car or vehicle is broken and dismantled, and one who begs for pardon, shall not be killed. At this point of time, Pandavas, Panchalas, their friends and relatives along with their respective troops are in deep sleep. A sleeping person is equal to a dead person. Why you choose to go to hell by killing sleeping persons. You are not an ordinary warrior. You are a Maha Radha. You should not resort to such heinous acts. Let us wait till tomorrow morning to fight with Pandavas.”said Kripacharya.
“Uncle Kripacharya! you are elder than me. You can direct me as you like and I have to obey your words. What you said is perfectly correct. Kindly listen to my words also.
In the presence of one and all, while my father, after discarding his bow and arrows, was in deep meditation, Dhrushtadyumna, without thinking that it was a heinous act, caught hold of the tuft of my father and cut his head. Keeping Sikhandi in front of him, Arjuna killed Bhishma. While Karna was lifting his chariot wheel, Arjuna killed him. While Bhoorisravasa was in deep meditation, after discarding his bow and arrows, Satyaki cut his head. Above all, while King Suyodhana was hiding himself peacefully in a pond, in deep waters, Dharmaja provoked him, pulled him out and Bhimasena, in violation of all the war principles, hit him below his waist and kicked his head with his left leg. When Pandavas violated principles of Dharma to be followed during war, time and again, you did not a say a single word against them but you are directing me now to follow a virtuous path. Is it just and proper?
Uncle Kripacharya! Have you not heard the pitiable words spoken to by Suyodhana. My endeavour is to wipe out the tears of Suyodhana. I do not mind even if it is Adharma. I will kill Dhrishtadyumna, who killed my father, in an unscrupulous manner. Even if it is a great sin, I will bear it . I do not mind even if I get the body of an insect in my next birth. Nobody can stop me” So saying, Asvathama boarded his chariot.
“Asvathama! we all three have started on one mission. How can you go alone? We are also coming along with you” Kripacharya and Kritavarma also boarded their chariots.
“O Uncle Kripacharya! I am going to kill Dhrishtadyumna. I am happy you are also following me. Please follow me.” so saying Asvathama drove his chariot towards the camps of Pandavas. As Asvathama was driving his chariot with great speed, Kripacharya and Kritavarma were lagging behind.
While Asvathama was proceeding towards Pandava camps, a huge monster like demon stood in front of Asvathama. Asvathama stopped there. Enraged with great wrath, Asvathama shot many arrows, astras and sastras upon that demon. That demon swallowed all the astras and sastras. All Astras and Sastras available with Asvthama were exhausted. Asvathama took his long sword and attacked that demon. That sword was cut into pieces. Asvathama hurled tomaras and disc-like weapons upon that demon. All of them were cut into fragments. Asvathama threw a huge mace which was swallowed by that demon.
Asvathama looked behind. Kripacharya and Kritavarma were not seen at sight. Asvathama repented for his hastiness. “What Kripacharya said is correct. One should not kill Brahmins, Kings, women, friends, brothers, weak, idiot, blind, sleeping man, terrified man, an intoxicated man, a lunatic . It is agreat sin. I have disregarded the eternal path pointed by the scriptures and trying to tread in a wrong path. Hence I have fallen into terrible distress. Having born in Brahmin community, I am trying to get a bad name. Only to avoid me from committing any sin, this demon has attacked. What to do? Who will come to my rescue?” thought Asvathama in great distress.
At last he decided to worship Parama Siva with great devotion. He sat on the floor and began to praise Siva. After praising for some time Asvathama prayed Siva: “O Mahadeva, If I could get over this calamity, I will offer myself by jumping into fire.”. Asvathama looked around. He found a golden altar in front of him with blazing fire. Several Pramadha Ganas were coming out of that sacred fire.
Asvathama was worshipping Lord Siva with great devotion. But Lord Siva did not appear before him. Asvathama intended to jump into that fire. Asvathama put his bows, arrows, astras, sastras, all kinds of weapons in the fire. The fire was blazing violently.
“O Lord Siva! I am in a perplexed position. I could not decide what is good and what is bad, proper or improper, dharma or adharma. Kindly appear before me and give me sufficient strength to accomplish my desire. Otherwise, I will jump into the fire and immolate myself. Hara Hara Mahadevaaa.” Asvathama was about to jump into the fire. Lord Siva appeared before Asvathama and stopped him.
“O Asvathama! Stop . I am very much pleased with your greatest devotion and will power. Dont think that myself and Lord Krishna are different. Krishna will worship me and I like Sri Krishna. As you proceeded to kill Krishna, I foiled your attempt and delayed your attack by appearing before you as a demon. You cannot kill Krishna. You can kill others. Take this magnificent sword and massacre your enemies.” Siva gave him a powerful sword. Without the knowledge of Asvathama, Lord Siva entered into his body in invisible form.
Now Asvathama was blazed up with great courage and energy. He returned back to his chariot. All his bows, arrows, astras and sastras which were burnt in fire, were in tact. Meanwhile, Kripacharya and Kritavarma joined Asvathama. All of them proceeded towards the camps of Pandavas. While Lord Siva was blazing in the body of Asvathama, Pramadha Ganas also followed him in invisible form. All of them entered Pandava camps.
Asvathama kept Kripacharya and Kritavarma at the main entrance, and he alone entered the camp of Dhrishtadyumna. The magnificent sword given by Lord Siva was shining in his hand.First he entered the camp of Dhrushtadyumna. Dhrushtadyumna was in sound sleep. The eyes of Asvathama was burning with great wrath. At the same time he was overjoyous as he was going to kill the killer of his father.
Asvathama kicked Asvathama with his leg and woke him up. Asvathama threw him down and put his knee on his chest. Asvathama was fisting Dhrushtadyumna on his chest. Dhrushtadyumna remained speechless for this unexpected incident. Asvathama took out the thread tied to his bow and tied it around the neck of Dhrushtadyumna. Asvathama was strangling the neck of Dhrushtadyumna. Asvathama was kicking him on his chest, neck,back and thighs. Dhrishtadyumna could understand the position.
“Asvathama! kill me....kill me with all your astras and sastras. Dont kill me like a beast.” prayed Dhrushtadyumna with folded hands.
“No. No. you killed my father. You should not be killed like a hero. You should not be allowed to get higher regions after your death. I will kill you in this manner.” said Asvathama, kicking him on his chest.
By that time, other warriors sleeping in the neighbouring camps woke up. At that time, Asvathaama was fully drenched with blood. They thought that Asvathaama was a Rakshasa. Nobody came forward to attack him and rescue Dhrishtadyumna. Asvathama cruelly killed Dhrushtadyumna by kicking him with hands and lelgs and tightening the thread tied around his neck. Dhrushtadyumna was dead. Asvathama removed the thread and again tied it to his bow.
Asvathama came out of the camp of Dhrishtadyumna and proceeded towards other camps. The other warriors and soldiers who were staring at Asvathama, raised hue and cry and began to shout loudly. On hearing their cries, all the warriors and soldiers in other camps also woke up. They were in a perplexed state. They did not know what was happening. The guards posted at the camps told them: “Whether he is a Rakshasa or a human being, we know not what he is.. Having slain Dhrishtadyumna, he went that side”
On hearing them, all the warriors began to shout: “Catch him....dont leave him..kill him.... stab him...” They all ran behind Asvathama and surrounded him. With the weapon given byRudra, Asvathama killed all of them in a moment.
Then he entered the camp of Uttamouja. Asvathama caught hold of his tuft, dragged him to the ground and cut his head with the knife. Beholding this, Yudhamanyu attacked Asvathama. Asvathama cut the head of Yudhamanyu with the same knife.
Beholding this, none were dare enough to attack Asvathama. Asvathama’s body was drenched in blood. Even by staring at Asvathama, several soldiers had their last breath. Asvathama entered the camps of Princes of Drupada and killed all of them and consigned them to the abode of Yama. Asvathama massacred horses, elephants, soldiers mercilessly. He did not distinguish whether he is a man or beast. The scene was so terrific as if Mruthyu was dancing there with its full vigour.
While Asvathama was entering each and every camp and massacring the soldiers, horses and elephants, all were shouting and crying that some demon entered the camps and massacring the soldiers. On hearing those shouts, Sikhandi, sons of Droupadi, accompanied by their forces, surrounded Asvathama. Asvathama looked at them. Rudra who was in the body of Asvathama enraged with great wrath. He cut the heads of all Panchalas.
When Prativindhya attacked him, Asvathama cut his body into two pieces. Srutasoma, son of Bhima, roaring like a lion, attacked Asvathama. Asvathama cut the sword of Srutasoma and also cut Srutasoma into pieces. Beholding this, Sataaneeka, son of Nakula rushed against Asvathama and hurled his Chakrayudha (disc like weapon).Asvathama pulled Sataaneeka from out of his chariot dragged him and cut his head. Meanwhile, Srutasena, son of Sahadeva stood before Asvathama with great wrath and struck Asvathama with his huge mace. Asvathaama struck the face of Srutasena with his palm. The face of Srutasoma was crushed into pieces and he died. Even Srutakeerti, son of Arjuna, beholding the deaths of his brothers, also could not stand before Asvathama. His head was cut by Asvathama with the divine sword given byRudra. In this manner, all the sons of Droupadi were slain by Asvathama.
Now it was the turn of Sikhandi to be killed. Sikhandi, accompanied by Prabhadrakas, could stand before Asvathama for some time. There was a fiercest battle between them. But Sikhandi could not stand any longer before the supernatural powers of Asvathama. Asvathama cut Sikhandi into two pieces. Asvathama massacred all Prabhadrakas. When once the sword given by Rudra was raised, several heads were rolling on earth. In this manner, all Panchalas, their forces, Prabradhakas, sons of Droupadi, their forces, their horses, elephants were killed mercilessly, without leaving anything, alive.
But some Pandava soldiers fled away. Asvathama began to chase them. Some elephants and horses also were found running towards the main gate. Some soldiers were being crushed under the feet of running elephants. In that melee, nobody knows what was happening. The soldiers were killing each other. There was a great pandemonium. All were running towards the main entrance where Kripacharya and Kritavarma were standing. Both of them began to cut the heads of all the soldiers. horses and elephants, who were coming near the main entrance with all kinds of weapons.
It was dawn atthat time. There was a great silence. All are dead. Asvathama met Kritavarma and Kripacharya. “O Uncle Kripacharya, my dear friend Kritavarma! All the Panchalas are dead. All the sons of Droupadi are dead. All the sons of Panchala Kings are dead. The armed forces of Panchalas, Matsyas, Prabhadrakas were massacred. None remained alive. All the beasts like horses, elephants were killed. But, Krishna, Pandavas, Satyaki are alive. I could not find them. I do not where they have gone.” said Asvathama.
Kritavarma and Kripacharya acclaimed the heroic deeds of Asvathama.
“Uncle Kripacharya! I killed each every one except Pandavas. Unless I kill Pandavas, the soul of Suyodhana will not rest in peace. What is the use of killing others except Pandavas?” said Asvathama in a distressed mood.
“Asvathama! dont be distressed. In one night. you have killed Dhrushtadyumna, Sikhandi, Upa Pandavas, their armies, without leaving anybody alive. Is it an ordinary task.” acclaimed Kripacharya.
“Uncle Kripacharya! let all of us go to King Suyodhana and tell himwhat had happened. His soul will rest in peace.” said Asvathama.
All of them proceeded to the place where Suyodhana was lying on the ground.At that time, Suyodhana was rolling on the bloodstained surface of the earth, with heavy breathing. His lives were not leaving his body. He was almost at the threshold of the abode of Yama. His hands and legs were losing their strength. At that time, Asvathama hurriedly arrived there. Beholding Suyodhana, he could not control his sorrow.
“O King Suyodhana! you ruled the entire earth. Now you are rolling on the bare earth, unattended. It is nothing but fate. Your vigour, your valour, your strength, your bravery, your skills in macefight, all of them have gone waste. King Suyodhana! you are leaving this body in the holy place of Samantaka Panchaka. You will get higher regions.
Suyodhana! you are my god father. You brought me up since my childhood by giving food and shelter. You provided me sufficient funds for performing several Yagas and Yajnas. Now, you are dying while I am alive. What can I do Suyodhana? How can I serve you? You fought for a just cause till your death. We three are so fortunate in accomplishing your last wish.
When you happen to reach the higher regions, you tell my father “Dronacharya! your son, Asvathama, killed the wretch, Dhrishtadyumna, as if he was a beast.”. You hug my father, Drona on my behalf. Suyodhana you convery my best wishes to Bahlika, Somadatta, Bhoorisravasa and Saindhava, who have already adorned higher regions.
O Suyodhana! In this great anguish, I have forgotten the important matter to be reported to you. I will tell you what had happened yesterday night.
O King Suyodhana! I will tell you some words which are equivalent to divine drink, Amrutha. Yesterday night, at dawn, I entered the camps of our enemy troops. First, I entered the camp of Dhrishtadyumna and killed him like a beast. Then I killed all his friends and relatives. I also killed all the sons of Droupadi and their respective troops. I massacred all the Pandava forces. I killed all the horses, elephants and foot soldiers mercilessly. Suyodhana! I could not find Sri Krishna and Pandavas anywhere. Expecting my arrival, Krishna might have moved them to a safer place. Suyodhana! Except Pandavas, Sri Krishna and Satyaki, all are dead. Without the help of Kripachayra and Kritavarma, I would not have fulfilled this great task” told Asvathama in his own way.
With great difficulty,Suyodhana opened his mouth and said: “Asvathama! You have done a great heroic thing than what had been done by Great Warriors like Bhishma, Drona and Karna. I praised Karna and Salya as great heroes. But till my death, you are by my side and accomplished my last wish. I wish you all long life and prosperity. Let us meet again in heaven” so saying King Suyodhana breathed his last breath.
Suyodhana who was responsible for this great massacre was dead. His greediness, covetousness, aggrandizement, have taken away his life. His mortal body was lying on the bare ground filled with mud and dust.
Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma, walked around his body three times, and then left that place on their respective chariots. Next day morning, after sun rise, I left that place and arrived here to tell you what had happened.” said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra.
In this manner, Soota, the story teller, told Saint Sounaka and other great sages and saints in Naimisaranya, the story of Mahabharata, as told by Saint Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
MAHA BHARATA
SOUPTIKA PARVA FIRST CHAPTER
COMPLETED.
OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT.

Mahabharat
Souptika parva
Second chapter.
In Naimisaranya, on the occasion of Satrayaga, Soota, the story teller, told the story of Mahabharata to Sounaka and other great sages and saints, as told by Saint Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya.
Next day, Dharmaja was sitting in his inner apartment, surrounded by Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, Sahadeva, Satyaki and Sri Krishna and was discussing about their future plans. At that time, the chariot driver of Dhrishtadyumna arrived there. Bowing his head to ground, he stood before them with folded hands.
He told Dharmaja thus: “O King Dharmaja! yesterday, midnight, Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma entered our camps. Kripacharya and Kritavarma took positions at the entrance. Asvathama entered the camp of Dhrishtadyumna and killed him. Then Asvathama killed all the brothers and sons of Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandi, five sons of Droupadi, while they were all in deep sleep. None could stand before him alive. Some warriors escaped from his wrath and ran towards the main entrance. But, Kripacharya and Kritavarma who were standing there killed all of them mercilessly. Not even a single soldier remained alive. All the elephants, horses were killed by those three warriors. When Kritavarma caught me, I fell on his feet and prayed for mercy. As I am only a chariot driver, I was left. I have come over here to report what had happened.” said the chariot driver of Dhrishtadyuna.

On hearing those words, Dharmaja fainted and fell down. All of them were in grief. The servants sprinkled some cold water on Dharmaja. He regained consciousness. He was lamenting for the death of his own kith and kin.
“Krishna! Deaths are quite common and natural in war. I conquered all our enemies and got the triumph. Everybody is in a jubilant and joyus mood, celebrating our victory. At this juncture, all our sons, relatives and friends were butchered while they were sleeping. It is as if one died in a small canal after swimming across the ocean. Droupadi lost his father, some days ago. Now she lost her brothers and sons. How can she withstand this grief and survive. Arjuna, send some messengers to Droupadi and inform her about the death of her sons and brothers.” said Dharmaja.
At that time, Droupadi and Subhadra were in Virata City. Droupadi went to Panchala city to console her mother, for the death of King Drupada. From there, she went to Virata City to console Sudheshna, for the death of King Virata. Subhadra remained there, to proceed to Dwaraka. Droupadi returned back to Upaplavya. Dharmaja asked Nakula to proceed immediately to Upaplavya to bring Droupadi and other ladies. Immediately, Nakula proceeded to Upaplavya.
Dharmaja, accompanied by Sri Krishna and Satyaki, lamenting for the deaths of his sons and other relatives, returned back to the Pandava camps. Beholding his sons, grandsons, and friends all slain in battle, the King’s soul became overwhelmed with great grief. Senseless and trembling, his eyes were filled with tears. Sri Krishna and Arjuna consoled him. Dharmaja performed the funeral ceremonies for all the dead bodies. He sat there, waiting for the arrival of Droupadi.

Nakula arrived at Upaplavya and informed Droupadi about the mass massacre of her sons, brothers and other relatives. Droupadi fell down and began to weep loudly for the brutal deaths of her sons. She, along with Nakula, arrived at Kurukshetra. She got down the chariot but she could not move further. She was trembling. She fell down afflicted with great grief. Bhimasena advanced hastily raised her up and clasped her.
She looked at Dharmaja. “O Dharmaja! What is this tragedy? You have got a tremendous triumph over your enemies, but you are deprived of the pleasure of enjoying with your sons. Few days back Abhimanyu was killed. Now all my sons are killed. Will there not be an end for this heart burning? How Asvathama could kill my sons brutally? O King Dharmaja! while my sons were in deep and sound sleep, Asvathama, son of your preceptor, Drona, killed them cruelly and mercilessly. There is no other way except to kill Asvathama. O King Dharmaja! I will send Bhimasena now itself to kill Asvathama. Otherwise, I will immolate myself by doing Prayopavesa.” Droupadi told Dharmaja firmly.
Dharmaja tried to console her. “O Droupadi! It is quite natural for Kshatiryas to be killed in battle. Your sons and brothers were killed in the battle. They attained higher regions in heaven. You need not grieve for their death. I know your anger will not subside unless Asvathama is killed. But Asvathama has gone to forests. Even if he is killed, how can you know about his death.” said Dharmaja.
“O King Dharmaja! I know that he got a mysterious diamond on his head, born with him. If that diamond is brought and shown to me, I believe that he is dead. Bhimasena! remember the duties of a Kshatriya! Kill Asvathama and bring the diamond. Thereis no one in this world who is equal to you in prowess. Remember the prowess you have shown while all of you were burnt alive in wax house; the courage you have shown while killing Hidimbasura; the vigour you have shown while you fought with Yakshas; the valour you got while killing Kichaka. Kill Asvathama -- the entire world will acclaim you.” Droupadi provoked Bhimasena.
On hearing the words of Droupadi, Bhimasena was enraged with great wrath. He could not control himself. He asked Nakula to drive his chariot. Bhimasena jumped into the chariot and proceeded towards Kurukshetra. Bhimasena enquired about the whereabouts of Asvathama. He was informed that Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma proceeded towards Hastinapura. From there, they returned back and proceeded towards the river Ganges. On the way, Kripacharya and Kritavarma were separated from Asvathama and proceeded in their own way. Asvathama proceeded towards the Ashram of Saint Vyasa. Bhimasena immediately proceeded towards the Ashram of Saint Vyasa.
After Bhimasena left in search of Asvathama, Sri Krishna told Dharmaja thus: “O King Dharmaja! Bhimasena alone rushed towards Asvathama to kill him. But, Bhimasena could not withhold the prowess of Asvathama. One more thing. Drona, gave a most powerful Astra called Brahma Sironamaka Astra which is capable of consuming the whole world, to his son, Asvathama. Drona also gave the same Brahma Sironamaka Astra to Arjuna also. While giving that Astra, Drona cautioned his son, Asvathama, not to launch that Astra against human beings, even when he was overtaken by the greatest danger. Besides that, Drona only imparted the knowledge of how to launch Brahma Sironamaka Astra to Asvathama but not to retrieve it. But Asvathama is a man of pride and he does not care for anybody, leave alone his father.
While you were in forests, one day, Asvathama came down to Dwaraka. He told me thus: “O Krishna! In the ancient times, Brahma gave Brahma Sironamaka Astra to Agastya. Agastya gave that Astra to my father, Drona. My father gave it to me. Now I will give that Astra to you. In return, will you give me your Chakra weapon.” asked Asvathama.
I smiled at him. I have shown him all my weapons viz., my bow, arrows, sword, mace, and Chakra Ayudha and asked him to choose whatever he likes, provided he should have such power and energy to handle them and use them in proper manner. I also told him not to give anything in return because he is my friend. But Asvathama insisted to take Chakra Ayudha. Asavathama tried to lift Chakra Ayudha with his left hand. It did not move. He used his right hand also. No use. He could not move Chakra Ayudha even an inch, by using his entire power and energy. He was tired.
Then I told Asvathama: “My friend Asvathama! I did penance on the Himalayan Mountains, along with my wife, Rukmini, by observing strict BrahmaCharya, for a period of 12 years. Then only I could acquire this weapon. With the power of this Chakra Weapon, Deva, Danava, Gandharva and other beings are no match to me. Even my brother, Balarama, my sons Pradyumna and Samba or even the yadava warriors did not aspire for this weapon. Arjuna did penance about Lord Siva and acquired Pasupata Astra. He also acquired Gandeevam, white Horses, and Kapi Dhwaja. Arjuna is my heart and soul. If he asks anything, I say no. Even then, Arjuna did not ask me about this weapon. But, being the son of a great preceptor, Drona, you are asking for this weapon. Is it proper? Asvathama, tell me for what sake and to fight with whom, you require this weapon?” I asked Asvathama.
“Krishna! if yougive me this Chakrayudha, I will convince you to fight with me. I will fight with you and launch this Chakrayudha against you. This is my wish. But you do not want to part with Chakrayudha. Keep it for yourself. In the ensuing war, I will fight with you even without Chakrayudha.” said Asvathama.
I was greatly amused at his words. As Asvathama was a Brahmin, I gave numerous presentations and gifts to him. Dharmaja! Asvathama is a man of great pride and anger, because he is having that great Astra. He is so cruel. He will mercilessly kill Bhimasena with that Astra. My intention is that Bhimasena should not suffer at the hands of Asvathama” said Krishna.
Krishna kept Satyaki and Sahadeva at their camps to protect Droupadi. Himself, Dharmaja and Arjuna proceeded in search of Bheemasena. On the way, they met Bhimasena. All of them proceeded towards Vyasa Ashram. They found Asvathama, on the banks of ganges, in deep meditation. Bhimasena was enraged with great wrath.
“O Asvathama! a wretch in Brahmin community! fake sanyasi! Having done such a great massacre last night, how can you become a saint next day morning? Can you avoid death by sitting in meditation? Get up. Fight with me.” Bhimasena roared like a lion.
Asvathama got up. Beholding Bhimasena, Arjuna and Sri Krishna, Asvathama picked up a blade of grass with his left hand. He inspired that blade of grass with Mantras and coverted it into that powerful celestial weapon, Brahma Sironamaka Astra. Asvathama uttered in wrath these terrible words “For the destruction of Pandavas”. Having said these words, Asvathama let off that weapon. A fire then was born in that blade of grass, which seemed capable of consuming three words. There was a terrible blast.
Beholding Arjuna, Krishna said: “O Arjuna! That is Brahma Sironamaka Astra. No other Astra can neutralize it except the same Astra. Time has come for the use of that celestial weapon which is in your memory and knowledge of which was imparted to you by your preceptor, Drona. For protecting yourself and your brothers, shoot that weapon which is capable of neutralising Brahma Sironamaka Astra.” said Krishna.
Arjuna got down the chariot. Took up his Gandeeva. He memorized Brahma Sironamaka Astra. “I am using this Astra only to neutralise Brahma Sironamaka Astra shot by Asvathama and also to protect myself my brothers and also Asvathama.” Then he launched that celestial Astra.
Brahma Sironamaka Astra, rose to the sky and tried to neutralize the Astra shot by Asvathama. Both Astras dashed against each other. There were terrible flames within a huge sphere of fire. Numerous peals of thunder were heard; thousands of meteors fell and all living creatures became inspired with great dread. The entire welkin seemed to be filled with noise and flames of fire.
Beholding this unexpected havoc, Saint Narada came running to Vyasa. Both of them arrived at the spot where Arjuna and Asvathama were standing.
“O Arjuna and Asvathama! So far, several Kings and Emperors were born and ruled this earth. None launched Brahma Sironamaka Astra on inhabitant areas. What act of rashness is this?” asked Veda Vyasa.
Arjuna bowed down before Vyasa and said: “O Great Saints, Narada and Vyasa! Asvathama shot that celestial astra intending to kill myself and my brothers. At the command of Krishna, with a view to neutralise that Astra, I also launched Brahma Sironamaka Astra. It is not my intention to destroy the inhabitant areas. If you desire, I will withdraw the Astra launched by me, in which eventuality, the Astra launched by Asvathama will destroy all of us. You have to think about our welfare also.” said Arjuna.
So saying Arjuna, withdrew the celestial Astra launched by him.
“Asvathama! you also withdraw that celestial Astra launched by you” directed Vyasa.
“O Saint Vyasa! I am incapable of withdrawing that celestial astra. This wretch, Bhimasena shamelessly killed my lord, Suyodhana, in a very sinful manner. Not satisfied with that, he came here in search of me and tried to kill me. As a measure of self defence, I launched Brahma Sironamaka Astra. I do not know how to withdraw the said weapon. It will certainly destroy Pandavas. I have, in wrath, done this sinful deed.” said Asvathama.
“Asvathama! your father imparted that celestial astra to Arjuna also. But Arjuna never intended to harm you. Arjuna launched Brahma Sironamaka Astra only to neutralise your Astra. At my request, Arjuna withdrew his Astra. Arjuna is possessed of such patience and honesty. You cannot kill Arjuna. Do you know the serious repercussions caused by this Sironamaka Astra. Whereever it is launched, there will be severe draught and famine in that area for twelve years. Therefore, by whatever means, you have to withdraw this weapon. Now you are a saint. Shed your anger and hatredness. You are having a diamond on your head. Give that diamond to Arjuna. Arjuna in return will forgive you. By parting with that diamond, you are halfdead. This is an amicable formula. Do as I say!” said Veda Vyasa.
“O Saint Vyasa! Are diamonds are quite new to Pandavas. They have plundered the entire wealth and treasure of King Suyodhana. Do they still require my diamond. But, O Saint Vyasa! this is not an ordinary diamond. Whoever is in possession of this diamond will never feel hunger, thrist, sleep and diseases. They are never afraid of thieves or demons. How can I give such a powerful diamond to Pandavas. But, O Saint Vyasa, I cannot go beyond your word. I am giving this diamond to you.
Now listen to me. The Brahma Sironamaka Astra, shot by me, will cause harm to all the existing pregnancies in the wombs of all Pandava women. Hence I am directing this Astra into the wombs of all the Pandava women.” said Asvathama.
“Let it be done. Don’t entertain any other purpose. Stop yourself by throwing this Astra into the wombs of the Pandava women.” said Vyasa.
Asvathama thought for a while. He could realise the flaw in his promise. For the present, none of the wives of Pandavas were pregnant. Therefore, his word will become futile.
“O Saint Vyasa! By saying “the women of Pandavas”, I mean, not only the wives of Pandavas, the wives of their sons, son’s sons and son’s son’s sons. My Astra will destroy all the pregnancies borne by all Pandava women.” Asvathama changed his word.
Krishna was observing the conversation betwen Vyasa and Asvathama. Now Krishna intervened. “Asvathama! You are already inflicted with great sin by killing all the sons and grand sons of Pandavas while they were sleeping. Now you want to destory the pregnancies of their women also. I desire to save atleast one pregnancy to continue the Pandava clan. Therefore, save one pregnancy and destroy the rest.” requested Krishna.
“Krishna, I know what is passing on in your mind. You always speak in favour of Pandavas. I know you are trying to save the pregnancy of Uttara, wife of Abhimanyu. If you try to save her, I will destory that pregnancy also with my celestial weapon.” said Asvathama.
“You cannot. Asvathama! You cannot destroy that pregnancy. At any cost, I will save that pregnancy. I am giving longer life to the child lying in the womb of Uttara.” said Krishna firmly.
“It is impossible Krishna. You can do as you like” said Asvathama. Without caring for the words of Saint Vyasa and Krishna, Asvathama directed his Brahma Sironamaka Astra towards all pregnancies of Pandava women, including Uttara.
“Asvathama! The child lying in the womb of Uttara has already been saved by the words of a virtuous brahmin. One day, a virtuous brahmin of pious vows, beholding Uttara, wife of Abhimanyu, while she was in Upaplavya, said: ‘O pious lady, while the Kuru line will become extinct, a son will be born to you. He will be called Parikshit. He will rule the entire earth.’ Therefore, Asvathama, the words of that pious brahmin will never become futile. Even though the child in the womb of Uttara is burnt by energy of your weapon, I shall revive him and give him long life. Thereore, Pandava clan will never become extinct. The son born to Uttara will be the King and Emperor of Kuru line.” said Krishna.
When Asvathama was about to say some thing, Krishna, with great wrath, cursed Asvathama. “O Killer of the sons of Pandavas! You have killed children, youth and old indiscriminately while they were sleeping. Therefore, from today on wards, you will be deprived of your daily food. None will help you. The stench of pus and blood shall emanate from your body and inaccessible forests shall be your abode. Like this, you will live for 3000 years, wandering throughout the world. But the child saved by me will rule this earth for ever. His son, Janamejaya, will also rule this earth. This is certain.” said Krishna.
“O Asvathama! you were born in Brahmin community but followed Kshatriya order. You did not listen to my words. The curse of Krishna will be implemented.” said Vyasa.
“Vyasa! I am also giving you a curse. You will always live amongst humans.” said Asvathama.
Then Asvathama removed the diamond from his head and gave it to Arjuna. Then Asvathama proceeded into the forests for doing penance. Pandavas and Krishna took leave from Vyasa and arrived at the Pandava camps where Droupadi was waiting for their arrival.
Bhimasena gave the diamond to Droupadi. “Droupadi! We have completed our mission and brought the diamond. As Asvathama is the son of our preceptor, Drona, Arjuna was not willing to kill him. Hence he grabbed his diamond. Even if he is alive physically, he is dead by all means. Console yourself and console Dharmaja.” said Bhimasena.
Beholding the diamond in her hand, looking at Dharmaja, Droupadi said: “O King Dharmaja! I feel it a great pleasure to have this diamond in my hand. You are the proper person to possess it”. So saying, Droupadi gave that diamond to Dharmaja. With the great devotion and reverence he had towards Drona and Asvathama, he kept it on his head as a mark of respect.
Dharmaja told Droupadi and Sahadeva and all of them assembled there what had happened on the banks of river Ganga. With the power of Brahma Sironamaka Astra, all the pregnancies borne by all the Pandava women were terminated, except that of Uttara.
Dharmaja asked Sri Krishna: “O Krishna! Even in strength, power, vigour, valour and prowess, sons of Droupadi, Dhrishtadyumna and Sikhandi excels Asvathama in all respects. How could he kill all of them, over night, singlehanded. Is there any special reason. Kindly tell me.” asked Dharmaja. Krishna told Dharmaja thus:
“O King Dharmaja! I know Maha Siva very well. He has no beginning, middle and end. He creates, sustains and terminates all living beings. The entire universe acts and moves through his energy.
Once, Brahma asked Maha Siva: “Create living creatures, without delay!”.
Maha Siva said: “So be it. But to accomplish any desire, devition and tapassu are quite essential. Hence I will do Tapassu.”. So saying Maha Siva began to perform Tapassu in deep waters.
Thousands of years have elapsed. Maha Siva did not come out. Brahma lost his patience. Without the help of Maha Siva, Brahma invoked into existence another being for making him the creator of all kinds of living beings. He was called Daksha.
Daksha asked Brahma: “If there be no being born before me, then I will create living creatures.”.
Brahma replied: “There is no other first born being besides you. Lord Siva is in deep meditation in a pond. Go and create living creatures.”
Then Daksha created all living creatures but did not provide them food. Afflicted with hunger, all the living creatures were desirous of devouring him. Realising the mistake, Brahma created herbs, plants, trees, shrubs, roots and fruits as food to the living beings. Weaker creatures were provided as food for stronger creatures. All the living creatures were satisfied with this arrangement. Since then, the creation was going on uninterruptedly through procreation process.
Meanwhile, Maha Siva completed his Tapassu and came out. Beholding that the entire universe was filled with living creatures and the procreation process was going on uninterruptedly, Maha Siva was enraged with great wrath. He thought that his genital organ which is not useful for creation is unnecessary. Mahasiva caused his procreative limb to disappear in the bowels of the Earth.
Beholding this, Brahma asked Maha Siva: “What is this? Why you have done like this?” asked Brahma.
“Only for the purpose of creation of living beings, I did penance in deep waters. By the time I returned from penance, somebody else has created all these creatures. What purpose would be served by this limb of mine ” said Maha Siva with great anger. Then he left that place for Malyavanta hill for penance.
The procreative limb of Maha Siva was shining and looking beautiful. Indra and other divine bodies began to worship it. In this manner, several thousands of years elapsed.
Once Indra and other divine bodies intended to perform a great yajna. They collected all requisites for the intended yajna. They determined those amongst themselves that should have a share in the sacrificial offerings. But no share was offered to Maha Siva. The Yajna was commenced.
Maha Siva came to know about this Yajna. He grew angry. He took up a long bow and rushed to the place where Yajna was being performed. Beholding the arrival of Maha Deva, the Goddess Earth shrunk with fear and mountains began to tremble. The wind ceased to move and fire ceased to flame. Sun and moon lost their shining. All the divine bodies fled away with fear. The sacred fire ceased to blaze. The sages and saints who were performing Yajna were all terrified. Maha Siva struck that Yajna with his bow. Yajna along with the sacred fire fled away. Yajna was stopped. Maha Siva broke the teeth of Poosha and broke the hands of Savita and pierced into the eyes of Bhagu. While the divine bodies were running away, Maha Siva restrained them with his long bow.
All the divine bodies fell on the feet of Maha Siva and pleaded for mercy. Yajna and the Sacred Fire also returned back and fell on the feet of Maha Siva. Maha Siva pardoned all of them. The teeth of Pushan, hands of Savita and the eyes of Bhagu were restored to their normal position. Maha Siva threw his anger into a pond which was dried up. All the divine bodies worshipped Maha Siva and provided a share in the Yajna. Then the Yajna was performed peacefully, without any interruption.
O Dharmaja! such is the power of Maha Siva. If Maha Siva opens his third eye the entire universe will be reduced to ashes. With his blessings only, all the living beings are living peacefully. With the blessings of Maha Siva only Asvathama could kill the sons of Droupadi, Dhrishtadyumna and Sikhandi. Therefore it is not prowess of Asvathama. Not only that, all the heroic deeds done by all of you viz., striking Bhishma, killing Drona, Karna and Salya, and Bhimasena discharing his promises by killing Dussasana and Suyodhana, are nothing but divine act and not your own heroic deed. Be happy with the victory. Dont go deep into it further. ” said Krishna.
Maha Bharata
Souptika Parva Second Chapter completed.
With this Souptika Parva is completed.
Om Tatsat Om Tatsat Om Tatsat.