CHAPTER 5

UDYOGA PARVA

Synopsis

The gathering storm. Duryodhana and Arjuna both seek Krishna’s help. Duryodhana manipulates Salya. How Nahusha became a serpent. Drupada’s messenger to Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya reports to Dhritarashtra. Elders’ plea to Duryodhana. Duryodhana’s rage at elders. Krishna counsels Pandavas. Krishna goes to Kaurava court. Krishna’s no to Duryodhana. Rishis invited to court. Krishna’s brief to Kauravas. Not a needlepoint, says Duryodhana. Duryodhana plans to imprison Krishna. Krishna shows. Duryodhana his terrible form. Krishna’s encounter with Karna. Karna’s vow to Kunti, I shall kill only Arjuna. Commander-in-Chief of Pandava army. The Army marches. Either Karna or I, says Bhishma. Balarama leaves on pilgrimage. Rukmi makes a spectacle of himself. A jesting Duryodhana sends Sakuni’s son to the Pandavas. Karna in special category. How long would the War last?.

The gathering storm

After the celebration of the wedding of Abhimanyu and Uttara, a conclave of kings was held at Virata’s court. Drupada, Balarama, Krishna, Satyaki (of the Yadavas), Abhimanyu, Pradyumna (Krishna’s son) and the five sons of Draupadi were gathered, in addition to the Pandava brothers and Virata himself.

Reviewing the events that had led to the Pandavas’ misfortunes, Krishna strongly condemned the atrocities committed by the Kauravas. “What would be Duryodhana’s next move?” pondered the Vrishni. “Let us immediately send a messenger to ascertain their plans. If they are willing to return to Yudhishthira his kingdom, then there would be peace. If not, it is wisdom that we prepare for war.”

Balarama was in favour of conciliation. He said, “Yudhishthira lost his kingdom due to his own folly. Let us not think of war with the Kurus. Let a messenger proceed to Hastinapura to conciliate the king.”

Satyaki criticized Balarama for his views, while endorsing Krishna’s plan. Drupada’s counsel was, “By now Duryodhana must be sending his messengers to various kings, seeking their support in the war that is certain to take place soon. Let us also send word to our friends to be prepared. In the meantime, let us send a messenger to Dhritarashtra.” His advise was accepted by everyone.

After the departure of Krishna and Balarama to Dwaraka, Virata started his war preparations. He, as well as Drupada, enlisted the support of all those who were sympathetic to the Pandava cause. In a similar action, the Kurus were contacting their supporters, most of who began to send their armies.

Duryodhana and Arjuna both seek Krishna’s help

Following on the heels of Krishna’s departure to Dwaraka, Arjuna followed him with the object of formally seeking his help if there was war. Duryodhana’s spies, in the meantime, brought him news that Krishna was returning to Dwaraka. The Kaurava prince took a fast steed and set out to Dwaraka to enlist the Yadava’s support. He reached there ahead of Arjuna.

Finding Krishna in slumber, Duryodhana took a fine seat at the head of the bed. Arjuna who arrived later, stood at the foot of the bed, his head bowed and his hands formed in prayer. When Krishna rose, he saw Arjuna standing at his feet. Turning around, he saw Duryodhana seated on a splendid chair.

One by one the two princes informed Krishna of the object of their visit. They both sought Krishna’s help in the event of a war between the Kauravas and the Pandavas. Duryodhana claimed that he had arrived first and hence Krishna should give him support. Krishna answered, “You are both very important for me. I would therefore like to help you both. One of you can have my troop known as Narayanas numbering ten crores. The other can have me by his side when there is war, although I would not lift my bow or fight.”

Krishna added to Duryodhana, “It is always the younger one who should be given the first choice. Besides, it was Arjuna that I saw first when I woke up. Hence he should choose first.”

Without hesitation Arjuna chose to have Krishna by his side. Duryodhana heaved a sigh of relief that Arjuna did not choose Krishna’s army. “With Krishna’s army fighting for me the war is as good as won,” he thought.

After Duryodhana left, Krishna asked Arjuna, “Partha, what made you choose me? Of what use would I be to you if I am not going to fight?”

“Krishna, I know your might very well. There is none who can oppose you in battle. You also know that, single handed, I can vanquish the entire Kaurava force. Besides, it has long been my desire that you should drive my chariot. I am blessed that I have got the opportunity now.”

After his meeting with Krishna, Duryodhana went to Balarama. The elder brother of Krishna told the prince that he was not in favour of war and hence he would not back either side.

Duryodhana manipulates Salya

Salya, king of the Madras and uncle of Nakula and Sahadeva, left his capital with an Akshauhini (army division consisting of 1,10,000 soldiers, 22,000 elephants, 22,000 chariots and 66,000 horses), with the idea of joining forces with Yudhishthira. Informed by his spies, the wily Duryodhana rushed to the route to be taken by Salya. He chose a spot in which he erected arches and tents, and filled the encampment with all luxuries. Salya occupied the camp, but was surprised to find that he owed all the hospitality to Duryodhana.

When Duryodhana made his appearance and showed respect to Salya, the Madras king felt obliged to the Kaurava prince. He acceded to Duryodhana’s request and threw in his lot with him.

After committing his loyalty to Duryodhana, Salya proceeded to meet the Pandavas. Receiving a proper welcome, the Madras king informed Yudhishthira of his promise to Duryodhana. The gracious Pandava king found no fault in this. All he did was to ask for a favour.

“Revered uncle,” Yudhishthira said. “There is no doubt that during the war you may have to drive Karna’s chariot. At that time, you should do all you could to discourage Radhey and instill diffidence in him.” Salya agreed.

How Nahusha became a serpent

While in conversation with Salya, Yudhishthira told him how his encounter with Nahusha turned the latter from a serpent to his original form. Salya related to Yudhishthira, the story of Indra and Nahusha. Indra was once hiding after committing brahminicide, a crime not tolerated in all the worlds. In the absence of Indra, the gods made one of them, Nahusha their king. Drunk with power, Nahusha started ill-treating the rishis. He made them carry him in a palanquin. He also coveted Indra’s wife, Cachi.

The great rishi, Agastya, was offended by Nahusha’s behaviour. He cursed Nahusha to be born a serpent in the world and spend a thousand years in that condition until he was redeemed by a king in exile. With the exit of Nahusha, Brihaspati, the foremost of gods, sought Indra and persuaded him to resume his duties. Salya cited this as an example of how evil-minded persons eventually get punished for their misdeeds.

Drupada’s messenger to Dhritarashtra

As was decided in the war council, an emissary, a brahmin, was selected by Drupada to formally present the Pandava demands at the Kaurava court. With proper briefing, the learned one left for Hastinapura.

After the introductions and enquiries about each other’s welfare were over, the brahmin told the Kaurava king, “Our king, Yudhishthira, is of the opinion that the Pandavas have fulfilled the conditions laid upon them at the dice game thirteen years ago. They would now want you to return to them the kingdom that they lost. If a proper settlement was not arrived at, there may be war, with a high cost of human lives and material. We are aware that your son Duryodhana has already started preparing for a war with the Pandavas and has gathered a force of eleven Akshauhinis. Please be informed that the Pandavas also have at their call seven Akshauhinis from their supporters. No doubt there is a difference in numbers. But that is more than made up by the presence among the Pandavas of that wielder of celestial weapons, their middle brother, Arjuna.”

Bhishma was quick to respond. He told the king that the demand conveyed by the brahmin should be acceded to and justice should be done to the Pandavas. Karna flared up on behalf of Duryodhana. He insisted that the Pandavas remain subservient to the Kauravas.

When emotions started to run high, Dhritarashtra said that, after due deliberation, he would send Sanjaya to Yudhishthira. The brahmin was asked to return to the Pandavas with that message.

Sanjaya, the son of Gavalgani and confidante of Dhritarashtra, carried the king’s brief to Yudhishthira. He reached Upaplavya, a place in the Matsya kingdom where the Pandavas were now residing. He was received by Yudhshithira with respect.

After the formal enquiries, Sanjaya conveyed Dhritarashtra’s message to Yudhishthira. “The king feels deeply sorry for the travails you have undergone. Great is the trust he reposes on you, for he thinks that your action will determine the future course of events. Your period of exile is over. You should think of living peacefully. After all, whatever has happened to you in the last thirteen years is due to your own folly.

“Even during your period of exile, you had at least two opportunities when you could have taken your revenge on the Kauravas. Due to your adherence to truth, you did not avail of them. Now you are talking of war. War would benefit neither the Pandavas nor the Kauravas. Both have very powerful warriors on their sides. Bhishma has the capability of destroying the entire Pandava army. So has Arjuna the power to wipe the Kauravas out of existence. There are others who are equally endowed. At the end of the war, who will remain? Of what avail would such a victory be for the survivors? Peace would therefore suit both families.”

Yudhishthira replied, “Sanjaya. You know all that has happened; how the evil son of the king schemed and deprived us of our rightful possessions. We endured all that. The king’s only objective now seems to be to make his son the monarch of the entire world. On the other hand, we only desire to recover for ourselves what we were cheated of. Here is the all-knowing Krishna on whose word the Vrishnis, the Andhakas, the Srinjayas and the Bhojas do or do not wage war. Let us hear him.”

Krishna said, “It is not right that inaction be taken as the solution to a problem. Nor should a disposition towards peace be construed as weakness. I always have the good of both the Pandavas and the Kauravas in my heart. But there is no doubt that Yudhishthira and his brothers have been deceitfully deprived of what belongs to them. It is not only fair, but it becomes their duty, to use force to procure justice. The onus therefore is on the king to yield to their fair demands or face war. Subject to this, Sanjaya, the Pandavas are still at peace with your king.”

The four brothers of Yudhishthira were unequivocal in conveying to Sanjaya their eagerness to take revenge on Duryodhana and his friends. They made it clear that they were raring to go against the Kauravas.

With this, Sanjaya took leave of the Pandavas, the final message he carried from Yudhishthira being, “Give me back my Indraprastha or fight with me.”

Sanjaya reports to Dhritarashtra

It was late in the evening when Sanjaya reached Hastinapura. He was quickly ushered into the presence of the king. Dhritarashtra eagerly enquired of him the result of his mission. A weary Sanjaya spoke harshly of his master’s policies and his weakness for Duryodhana. He told the king, “As a result of the misdoings of your son, the situation has become serious. The entire Kaurava clan stands in danger of being wiped out by those noble warriors, the Pandavas. Yudhishthira has demanded that his kingdom be returned or he would fight for it.” The king dismissed Sanjaya, asking him to give a detailed report in the morning at his court.

The failure of Sanjaya’s mission increased the agitation in Dhritarashtra’s mind. He could get no sleep. He sent for Vidura looking for some solace. After giving a long discourse, Vidura summoned the sage Sanat Sujata to talk to the king. Vidura himself left.

The next morning Sanjaya presented his report to the king formally. Bhishma, Drona and Kripa were seated in the court. Also present were Duryodhana, Karna, Duscasana and Sakuni who all sat in a group.

Elders’ plea to Duryodhana

Sanjaya told the court about the reaction of Yudhishthira and his brothers to the proposal carried by him. He conveyed to the king the message Krishna had sent. The envoy also gave an account of the war preparations of the Pandavas and the support they were getting from various kings. Arjuna and Bhima wanted him to convey to Duryodhana their wrath and their determination to suitably avenge the insults and injury they had suffered.

Bhishma was quick to caution Duryodhana. “Following the advise of your friend, the charioteer’s son, you are bringing destruction to your race. Know you who these Arjuna and Krishna are? They are the sages Nara and Narayana who, from ancient times, have made their appearance on earth to redeem mankind from evil forces. They have fought and slain thousands of Asuras and other disturbers of peace. Many are the gods who have taken refuge at their feet and this faultless pair has given them succour. The mere sight of the powerful Krishna driving the chariot of Arjuna would make you shiver and cow. Do not take arms against them. Give up this foolish obstinacy of yours and return to the Pandavas what is due to them.”

Drona confirmed what Bhishma said. “There is no one in all the three worlds who could match Arjuna in the battle field. Making peace with the Pandavas is the best course. Give them back what belongs to them and avoid battle,” he advised Duryodhana.

Duryodhana sat grimly, without uttering a word.

Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe further the armies that were gathering in support of the Pandavas. An exhausted Sanjaya swooned, but quickly recovered.

Sanjaya said, “Among those that are responding to the Pandavas are the Panchalas, the Matsyas, the Kekeya princes, the Vrishnis, Sisupala’s son Dhrishtaketu, Jarasandhan’s son Sahadeva and a host of others. Krishna is present there and would himself drive Arjuna’s chariot. Many who are paying tribute to you would now join their cause.”

Duryodhana’s rage at elders

Duryodhana’s rage was kindled on hearing Sanjaya, Bhishma and Drona. He felt that they were unnecessarily praising the enemy. He told Dhritarashtra, “Do not despair, O King. When the Pandavas left in disgrace to the forest, many were the kings who met them and offered them support. Krishna was also very much there. At that time I was overawed by fear of them. When I expressed my apprehensions to Bhishma, Drona and Kripa they assured me that whatever support the Pandavas got, we have the power to ward them off. Today, we have the whole world under our feet. The Pandavas have no kingdom, no army. Arjuna will be no force in front of our warriors. Bhishma, whom Parasurama himself acknowledged as a superior, can wipe out the entire Pandavas. Arjuna’s preceptor, Drona, himself stands by our side.

“Even Balarama has acknowledged that I am superior to Bhima in mace battle. We have heroes like Karna and Aswathamma, each individually equal to the entire Pandava force. Our Samasaptakas are do-or-die warriors who would slay or be slain. Even if all of you forsake me, the three of us, Karna, Duscasana and myself, can destroy the Pandavas.”

The elders were hardly convinced by Duryodhana’s speech and kept expressing their misgivings. Duryodhana left the hall in anger. After dismissing his court, Dhritarashtra sent for Vyasa and Gandhari. Duryodhana was also recalled. But the advise of his mother and grandsire fell on Duryodhana’s deaf ears.

Krishna counsels Pandavas

Yudhishthira and his four brothers sat with Krishna, debating on their next move. Bhima and Arjuna showed a strange change in their attitude. Both now talked about avoiding the war, even if compromises were to be made with Duryodhana. Krishna showed his surprise. “I could hardly believe that you have so easily forgotten the insults you received from Duryodhana. Panchali has waited patiently and now looks forward to avenge the insolent behaviour of Duryodhana and his wicked companions thirteen years ago. It cannot be that fear causes you to talk thus. You probably think that total war is too high a cost to regain your kingdom. But it is not only your kingdom you have to recover. It is your glory and the fulfillment of your vows that is important. Do not abandon the only path that is right.”

Sahadeva also criticized his brothers for wavering. Draupadi said, “It gladdens to hear Sahadeva talk so vehemently. These tresses are witness to the base behaviour towards me of Duryodhana and his brother. Could they ever be forgiven? Our king even offered to the Kauravas that, instead of a kingdom, we could settle for five villages, Avisthala, Brihasthala, Makandi, Varanavata and for a fifth, any other. But Duryodhana refused, insisting that he would yield nothing. Where is the basis for negotiations?”

The brothers were all now united and the blood that coursed their veins seemed to get hotter. Nothing short of grounding the Kauravas in the various manners as vowed after the dice game would satisfy them.

Krishna goes to Kaurava court

Krishna said, “To me also war seems to be inevitable. I am known to be close to both the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It should not therefore come to pass that I caused you to embark on this war. I shall clear my name if I make one last attempt to prevent war by going to the Kaurava court to make a plea for peace.”

Yudhishthira opposed this plan. “The Kaurava court is now full of kings inimical to us,” he told Krishna. “There are those who would take advantage of your being alone and cause you harm. We can ill afford anything happening to you.” Krishna allayed Yudhishthira’s fear and it was agreed that he should go.

The next morning Krishna set off to Hastinapura in his splendid car driven by Daruka and drawn by Saivya, Sugriva and other steeds. News of his journey reached Dhritarashtra early, and he made elaborate preparations to receive the Vrishni hero. He ordered that Krishna should be honoured with chariots and costly gems as present.

Vidura told the king, “Krishna is coming here on an important mission. He would accept no present from you till he obtains what he wants. These presents would not impress him. We know that he desires justice to be done. This is our last opportunity. Do not let this go.”

“It is well known that Krishna is aligned to the Pandavas,” Duryodhana said. “It would therefore be a waste to shower presents on him. Without doubt, he deserves respect. But let us not behave as though we worship him out of fear of the enemy.”

“Whether or not you worship him,” Bhishma said. “Krishna can never be frustrated. He would only recommend what is right and truthful.”

Duryodhana replied, “O Grandsire! I will share nothing with the Pandavas. I look forward to Krishna’s visit so that, once he is here, I can imprison him. With him in my jail, the Pandavas and the Vrishnis would meekly submit to me.”

The king and all his counselors were outraged at the prince’s speech. Dhritarashtra scolded his son for entertaining such ideas. Bhishma walked out angrily with the remark, “Nothing can save you, O King, or your son, from total destruction.”

Arriving at Hastinapura, Krishna was warmly received at Dhritarashtra’s palace. After exchanging greetings with the king and all the others assembled, Krishna, with the king’s leave, went to Vidura’s abode. He met Vidura and Kunti. To the latter, he conveyed news about the welfare of her sons and daughter-in-law. She in turn asked Krishna to convey her blessings to the Pandavas and her hope that they would fulfill her expectations about them.

Krishna’s no to Duryodhana

From Vidura’s palace, Krishna went straight to that of Duryodhana. The prince welcomed him with the usual platitudes and placed at his feet many valuable presents. He invited the Vrishni chief to dine with him. Krishna declined, saying, “Noble prince. A good envoy never accepts gifts or entertainment until his object is fulfilled.”

Duryodhana pointed out that Krishna has already given him his army. He would therefore show his gratitude by entertaining Krishna as an honoured guest.

Krishna replied, “A person accepts dinner from another for one of two reasons. One is that he is hungry and needs food. The other is that food is offered out of love. Since neither is the case here, I would not accept your hospitality. I shall dine only with Vidura and none else.” So saying, he left. There was a perceptible increase in temperature around Duryodhana.

Rishis invited to court

When Krishna arrived at Dhritarashtra’s court the next morning, he observed a number of rishis, including Narada, standing in the firmament, eager to observe the proceedings. At his behest, Bhishma invited them and offered them seats. In the splendid court of Dhritarashtra, where the seats were all inlayed with costly gems, the conclave began.

Krishna’s brief to Kauravas

To Dhritarashtra, his advisers and the assembled monarchs, Krishna presented the Pandava case. “O Chief of the Kauravas! Your glory and power has spread and today you are the foremost of kings. The Pandavas are your sons and they would only be happy to acknowledge you as their superior. They are all endowed with skill as warriors. With them on your side you can truly become the envy of even Indra.

“An aggrieved subject turns to the king for justice. The Pandavas have been deceived into losing their kingdom. They have undergone thirteen years of exile as required of them. Now they are turning to you for the return of their kingdom in fulfillment of your promise. It behooves you to do what is right. The alternative would be to plunge the world into war and total annihilation. Save the Kshatriya race. Save mankind.”

From among the rishis who were present, Parasurama, Kanva and Narada spoke. With all wisdom and spirituality concentrated in them, they advised Dhritarashtra to follow Krishna’s advise. They gave examples of kings coming to grief due to their greed and selfishness. They said, “When Nara and Narayana are combining, of what avail is it to fight the Pandavas?”

Dhritarashtra replied that he had no power over his son. “I have told him to desist from this dangerous path. But he listens to me not.”

Krishna then spoke to Duryodhana. He reminded the Kaurava prince of his immense responsibility in protecting his race and saving the world from destruction. Bhishma and Drona followed, pointing out to the king and his son the wisdom in what Krishna had said.

Not a needlepoint, says Duryodhana

Disregarding the counsel given by the best of beings, Duryodhana said, "Whoever has spoken has only found fault with me. The Pandavas played the dice game of their own volition. They lost all. Yet I restored everything to them. But they came back and played again. They lost again in a fair bet. How am I responsible for this?

“This entire kingdom belongs to my illustrious father. Out of the goodness of his heart he gave half of it to his brothers’ sons. They have lost their portion and are now claiming it from us. They are so desperate that they would even settle for five villages!

“There is no question of accommodating the Pandavas. To fight, I am ready, being a Kshatriya. I have warriors whom even the gods cannot defeat. I would not yield to the Pandavas a needlepoint of land. This is final.”

His eyes red with anger, Krishna addressed Duryodhana. ”From the earliest time you have done everything you could to harm the Pandavas. Your jealousy and the advise of your evil friends have driven you to make many attempts on their lives. You schemed the dice game and used Sakuni to deceive your cousins. You and this Duscasana behaved disgracefully towards your own brothers’ wife. Now when the Pandavas are asking for what belongs to them, you are denying it. And yet you say you are innocent. Your foolishness is such that nothing can stop it from destroying you.”

Duscasana turned to his brother and said, “It is obvious that what these people want is to hand over the entire kingdom to the Pandavas so that they can bind us in ropes and take us to their king.” Duryodhana rose from his seat, hissing like a snake, and walked out of the hall. He was followed by his associates.

Krishna appealed to the king. “It is now in your hands to immediately bind your two sons along with Karna and Sakuni and hand the four over to the Pandavas. By sacrificing this much, you can save the whole world.”

A besieged Dhritarashtra asked for his queen to be fetched so that she can advise his ‘wretched son’.

After the arrival of Gandhari, Duryodhana was summoned once again to the court. Gandhari patiently explained to her son the folly he was committing and asked him to follow the advise of his illustrious elders. Disregarding his mother’s words, the proud prince once again walked out.

Duryodhana plans to imprison Krishna

Even as he was leaving, the idea was forming in Duryodhana’s mind to quickly nab Krishna and imprison him. With Krishna was present the Vrishni chief Satyaki who had the ability to read peoples’ minds. He knew that the foursome would attempt to capture Krishna. He rushed out of the hall and had a chariot readied.

Returning to the court, Satyaki appraised the king of Duryodhana’s plan. The king expressed his outrage. Vidura said that any effort to harm Krishna would only hasten Duryodhana towards his doom. Dhritarashtra brought Duryodhana back once again.

Krishna shows Duryodhana his terrible form

Krishna addressed Duryodhana. “You think that I am alone here and hence you can bind me. Far from it, I have all my forces surrounding me this very moment.” So saying Krishna took a terrible form. On him could be seen Brahman, Rudra and all the other gods. He was surrounded by the tribes of Vrishni and Andhakas. Standing by him were Arjuna and the other Pandava brothers. The intensity of the sight was such that all closed their eyes, save Bhishma, Drona and the rishis. To them it was a sight to be enjoyed.

Resuming his normal form, Krishna left Dhritarashtra’s court. He went to Kunti’s apartment to take leave of her.

Krishna’s encounter with Karna

Late in the evening, Dhritarashtra sent for Sanjaya. He asked him, “Is it true that in the midst of the day’s events, Krishna took Karna in his chariot alone? What transpired between them?” Sanjaya said that he had come to know the following.

Krishna told Karna, ‘Radheya. You are no doubt aware of the circumstances of your birth. You were born to Kunti with Surya as your sire. You are therefore a brother of the Pandavas; the eldest among them. The Pandavas do not know this. If they do, they would, without doubt, bow to you and treat you with reverence. Join them and fight for their cause, abandoning the evil Duryodhana. The Pandavas alone have the ability to conquer the world. When they do conquer the world, they would make you their king. The five mighty brothers would stand in attendance on you. Your real mother would embrace you in happiness.’

Karna replied, ‘O Kesava. I am fully aware of your greatness. I know that victory will be where you are. I am also aware of how I was born. You must appreciate that Pritha abandoned me soon after I was born. It was Adhiratha and his wife Radha who found me and brought me up as their own. I have gone through all the religious rites as applicable to the Suta class. It is Adhiratha who is my Pitra to whom I owe all religious sacraments. It is Radha who breathed life into me. They are my parents and they would remain so. As for my allegiance to Duryodhana, it is unshakeable. Right or wrong, I shall follow him to the end. The great and holy battle site of Kurukshetra awaits this showdown, which will involve all humanity. It is my destiny to fight Arjuna. Either he survives or I. All I seek is that I do not swerve in my loyalty, and I reach heaven that is reserved for the Kshatriya warrior who falls in the battlefield.’

Krishna assured that such would be the case. He added, ‘Now that war is inevitable, you may tell the king and his venerable advisers that seven days from now would be the right time to start it.’ This is what I learn, great king.

Karna’s vow to Kunti, I shall kill only Arjuna

Vidura briefed Kunti of the happenings during the day. He expressed his concern over the gathering of war clouds and the helplessness of the elders in stopping it. Kunti realized that Karna was playing a key role in the developments, being Duryodhana’s adviser. He was also the main strength Duryodhana depended on. “Karna was born to me,” she reflected. “Surely he would heed my words if I make a fervent appeal to him. I should do what I can to prevent this war.”

The next morning she went to the banks of Ganga where she observed Karna standing in the water and praying to the Sun god. She waited even as the sun rose higher and higher. As Karna came out of the water, she was standing like a fading lotus.

Karna was surprised to see the lady. He paid his respects to her, “I, the son of Radha and Adhiratha, bow to you. I would have come to you if you had sent me a message. Of what service can I be to you?”

Kunti spoke, “You are Kunti’s son. Not Radha’s or Adhiratha’s.” She narrated to him the story of his birth. “You are Partha, brother of Arjuna. You are now enjoying the prosperity wrested by Duryodhana unjustly from Yudhishthira. Leave Dhritarashtra’s son and go to the Pandavas where you rightly belong. Let henceforth people talk of you and Arjuna as they talk of Balarama and Krishna.”

Even as Kunti spoke, the voice of Surya could be heard, urging Karna to follow his mother’s advise.

Karna told Kunti, “It is, no doubt, one’s duty to respect his mother’s wishes. But consider your own action when I was born. You abandoned me, a helpless infant. If it were not for Adhiratha, my life would have ended that day. I was born a Kshatriya, but was denied the right to call myself one. You have never considered my good. Even today you are acting with a selfish motive. You are doing this for the Pandavas. Not for me. Besides, everyone knows the might of Arjuna. If I today go to him I would only be called a coward. I have grown under the shadow of Duryodhana’s friendship. In this his hour of need it becomes my duty to stand by him.

“However, since you have appealed to me, I can give you one assurance. In the ensuing battle, excepting for Arjuna, I would not aim to kill any of the other Pandava brothers.”

With this exchange, the two went on their different paths.

Commander-in-Chief of Pandava army

From Hastinapura, Krishna returned to Upaplavya where he briefed Yudhishthira about his mission. He also informed that Duryodhana had raised an army of eleven Akshauhinis with the help of several kings.

Bhishma had been elected Commander-in-Chief of the Kaurava army which was now repairing to Kurukshetra.

Yudhishthira informed Krishna that the Pandavas had also raised an army, seven Akshauhinis in strength. “Drupada, Virata, Drishtadyumna, Sikhandin, Satyaki, Chekitana and Bhimasena have been appointed the Akshauhini commanders. We now have the task of electing our army leader.”

The names of Virata, Drupada and Sikhandinn were considered. Arjuna suggested that Drishtadyumna should be the commander. Yudhishthira left the choice to Krishna who endorsed Arjuna’s suggestion. Drishtadyumna, the son born to Drupada from the sacrificial fire to counter Drona, was named the Pandava Commander-in-Chief for the War.

The Army marches

The Pandavas made adequate arrangements for the stay and security of Draupadi and the other women in Upaplavya. The army formations were made and the march to Kurukshetra commenced. Krishna and the five brothers, along with the other kings and warriors, took up their positions in the vanguard.

Arriving at Kurukshetra, they selected a proper place for camping. A defensive moat was built and soldiers posted all around. The artisans set to work on the tents and assembly rooms. The physicians and veterinarians were given proper accommodation. The kings were provided tents that were big and well decorated. Storehouses were built for arms and weapons. Kitchens were set up to feed the forces.

Either Karna or I, says Bhishma

Duryodhana similarly organized his troop of eleven Akshauhinis. Kripa, Drona, Salya, Jayadratha, Sudhakshina, Kritavarman, Aswatthama, Karna, Bhurisrawas, Sakuni and Bahlika took command of the eleven divisions.

The chief-elect, Bhishma, gave the pledge that despite his sympathies for the Pandava cause, he would remain loyal to the Kauravas while in battle. ”Let me however warn you,” he said. “The Pandavas are

invincible. As long as I am alive I shall slaughter at least ten thousand of their troops every day. But let me also make this clear. This charioteer’s son always boasts of his prowess and thinks he is superior to me. Hence, either Karna fights first or I fight.”

Karna quickly responded, “As long as Ganga’s son is alive, I shall not fight. It shall be after he is slain that I shall take arms against Arjuna.”

The army then marched towards Kurukshetra.

Balarama leaves on pilgrimage

Balarama, surrounded by a few Vrishni worthies, arrived at the Pandava camp. He addressed the assembly of kings, “My attachment to both the Pandavas and the Kauravas is of the same degree. I tried to argue with Krishna to treat both on an equal footing. No doubt he has committed his forces to the Kauravas, but he has personally aligned with Arjuna.

“I do not approve of this war. However, I am always with Krishna, whatever he does. Duryodhana and Bhima alike have become champions in the wielding of the mace, having learnt the art from me. I have no desire to stay and witness the slaughter of these two families. I am therefore leaving on a pilgrimage.” So saying, Balarama left the scene.

Rukmi makes a spectacle of himself

Krishna had obtained Rukmini by abducting her, much to the chagrin of her brother, Rukmi, the prince of Vidharba. A great warrior by his own right, Rukmi owned the celestial bow Vijaya, and had an Akshauhini for his army. When Krishna made off with Rukmini, Rukmi sought revenge. But in his battle with Krishna, he was totally humiliated. He built a city, Bhojkata, at precisely the same place where Krishna downsized him, and ruled a vast kingdom from there.

Rukmi now arrived at the Pandava camp with his huge force and addressed Yudhishthira in the presence of Krishna thus. “O King. If you are afraid of the coming war, I can assist you. I am capable of vanquishing all those Kaurava warriors single-handedly. I can win the war for you and make you king of the earth.”

Yudhishthira replied politely, “Born as Pandu’s son, with Drona as my teacher, and with Arjuna and Krishna by my side, why should I be afraid? I can very well fight this war without your help. You may, if you wish, stay. Otherwise you may leave.” Rukmi left with his sea of warriors.

Reaching Duryodhana, Rukmi enacted the same drama there. The proud Duryodhana promptly rejected him. Rukmi went home with all his forces, not getting an opportunity to participate in the Great War.

A jesting Duryodhana sends Sakuni’s son to the Pandavas

With the battle to commence the next day, Duryodhana, with Duscasana, Karna and Sakuni in attendance, called Uluka, the gambler’s son, and sent him to the Pandava camp. He asked Uluka to individually warn Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Krishna and all the other kings of the doom that was awaiting them in the coming war. He laughingly coached Uluka on the kind of offensive language he should use.

Uluka carried the message to the Pandava camp. Both the language and the content of Duryodhana’s message, faithfully repeated by Uluka, so incensed Bhima that he took a step towards the messenger. Krishna intervened and advised the envoy to leave immediately.

Karna in special category

Bhishma made a quick survey of the warriors on both sides, dividing them into Rathas, Maharathas and Atirathas, in the ascending order of their capabilities. He said that among the Kauravas, there were thousands who were Rathas, including the hundred brothers and Sakuni. Karna’s son Vrihasena and Drona’s son Aswatthama were included in the list of Maharathas. As for Karna, Bhishma said, he was ‘half-a-Ratha’.

His face red, Karna stood up and said he would prove the grandsire wrong by wiping out the entire Pandava army.

Reviewing the Pandava army, Bhishma classified all the Pandava brothers as Maharathas. So were Drupada and Virata. Among the Atirathas were Drupada’s sons Satyajit and Dhrishtadyumna.

Talking of his own weakness, Bhishma pointed out that due to his vow never to fight against a woman, Sikhandin may very well cause his death. Although a man in appearance, Bhishma held Sikhandin to be a woman.

How long would the War last?

Duryodhana asked his advisers, how long would it take to annihilate the Pandava forces?

Bhishma said, “One month.”

Drona said, “One month.”

Kripa said, “Two months.”

Aswatthama said, “Ten nights.”

Karna said, “Five nights.”

Bhishma smiled and said, “So you can in five nights, if you do not encounter Arjuna. It costs nothing to say what pleases you.”

CHAPTER 6

BHISHMA PARVA

Synopsis

Sanjaya becomes Dhritarashtra’s eyes. Battle positions. The conches sound.

Arjuna lays down his bow. The god speaks. Yudhishthira’s strange move. Krishna meets Karna again. Yuyutsu joins Pandavas. Day 1of Battle – Bhishma routs the Pandavas. Day 2 of Battle – Duryodhana taunts Bhishma. Day 3 of Battle – Bhishma pleads with Krishna to kill him. Day 4 of Battle – Bhima causes havoc. Day 5 of Battle – Honours are shared. Day 6 of Battle – Dhritarashtra’s frustration and Sanjaya’s answer. Day 7 of Battle – Abhimanyu lets off Duryodhana’s brothers. Day 8 of Battle – Iravat, Arjuna’s valiant son. Day 9 of Battle – How to kill Bhishma?. Day 10 of Battle – Closing-in on Bhishma..

Sanjaya becomes Dhritarashtra’s eyes

Dhritarashtra, the King of the Kauravas, was restless. Being blind, he could not witness the preparations his son was making to meet the Pandavas at Kurukshetra. It was at this time that Vyasa who could divine Dhritarashtra’s discomfiture visited him.

“O King,” Vyasa said. “The event all of us tried to prevent is now about to take place. The greatest war of our times is about to begin. The omens are deadly. The configuration of planets in the skies is very disturbing. Crows are constantly cawing. Jackals and vultures are congregating at Kurukshetra, looking forward to having a feast. Donkeys are braying and unnatural births are taking place. The hour for the death of all the great monarchs with their followers has come. Try not to yield to grief.

“I shall, if you desire, grant you vision to witness this great event.”

Dhritarashtra replied, “Venerable Muni. What is going to happen is the carnage of the Kshatriyas. Those that are near and dear to me will slaughter each other. Regardless of who wins or loses this war, the grief it would cause will be limitless. I do not want to gain my sight to witness the killing. I, however, want to know the happenings in the battlefield in all detail.”

Vyasa told Dhritarashtra’s faithful servant Sanjaya that he would grant him the vision to see and the ear to hear everything that takes place in the war. He could act as the king’s eyes and ears and describe the war as events unfolded. The eighteen days of the war are known to us from Sanjaya’s commentary to his king.

Battle positions

Both adversaries took their positions in the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The Kaurava army was in the east, facing the western firmament. The Pandavas faced east. Led by Bhishma, the Kauravas with their vast army of eleven Akshauhinis moved forward like a vast ocean. They looked like an army of Danavas (ethereal beings, hostile to god). The Pandavas with seven Akshauhinis looked less in number but had the aspect of a celestial army. The wind, blowing from east to west, seemed to carry a message from the beasts of prey to Duryodhana’s army.

Yudhishthira voiced his concern to Arjuna at being outnumbered by the Kaurava forces. Arjuna spoke confidently. He said, “In a similar situation, when Indra was fighting the Asuras, the supreme god told the deity that what mattered was not might but truth. Victory would be where there is righteousness. Besides, as Narada says, where there is Krishna, there victory is.”

The conches sound

Krishna advised Arjuna to first offer prayer to the goddess Durga, that invincible slayer of asuras. Arjuna did so. The goddess appeared before him and blessed him.

As the warriors were taking their positions, the awe-inspiring sounds of the conches were heard. Krishna blew his Panchajanya, Arjuna his Devadatta, Bhima his Paundara, Yudhishthira his Anantavijaya, Nakula his Sughosa and Sahadeva his Manipushpaka.

Arjuna lays down his bow

Arjuna asked his charioteer Krishna to steer him to a position from where he could review the opponent’s army. When Arjuna looked at Bhisma, Drona and all those that were dear to him, arrayed for battle, a feeling of despondency overtook him. He told Krishna that his limbs trembled. “Of what use is it to gain sovereignty over all the three worlds if it is by killing my preceptors and kinsmen?” he asked. “Woe unto me that I should kill those who offer sacrificial offerings to my ancestors.”

So saying, Arjuna sat down in his chariot, refusing to fight. The greatest moment of the Mahabharata narration had arrived. What Sanjaya described to his king next was Krishna’s advise to the disconsolate and dejected Arjuna; that incomparable discourse on the very definition of one’s duty, of righteousness, of virtue in the face of the transience of the soul, of what formed the core, the pith of Hindu faith and belief.

The god speaks

Arjuna: “Achutha. How can I take up arms against Bhishma and Drona who deserve my worship? How can I, out of avarice for wealth and fame, strike at those who are my preceptors? Compassion has possessed me. Fight, I do not want to. Show me the right path. I am lost without you.” Saying this, he bowed his head to Krishna.

Krishna: “Rise, Arjuna. It ill becomes you to lay down your arms in this hour. You mourn for those that do not deserve mourning.

“Embodied in every man is his soul. The soul is indestructible. Like changing clothes, the soul changes bodies. Besides, life is ephemeral. None who is born can escape death.

“To each is given a station in life. Duties are attached to it. Born a Kshatriya, it is your duty to face battle. Not doing so will only bring you infamy.

“Knowledge without devotion is meaningless. Devotion is Yoga. Yoga is to do your duty without expecting its fruits. Separate emotion from duty. Be of steady mind.”

Arjuna: “How does one attain steadiness of mind?”

Krishna: “He who remains calm in the midst of calamities, he who no more craves for pleasure, he who has conquered fear and anger, he who has overcome attachment, his is the steady mind.”

Arjuna: “If devotion is superior to work, then why should I work?”

Krishna: “Devotion is of two kinds. Sankhya is through knowledge. Yoga is through work, work of the detached kind. I am the Supreme Being. Yet I work. If I cease to work, there would be chaos. By doing your work without expectation, you leave it to me to decide on the results. Hence take up your bow and fight. Realising your duty and doing it, is right. Not action impelled by others.”

Arjuna: “What forces interfere with my devotion?”

Krishna: “It is your senses. They come in the way of your understanding your duty. Control them, you must. I taught this to Vivaswat, he to Manu, Manu to Ikshaku. And you have come in the line of those.”

Arjuna: “Living in our generation, how could you have imparted this knowledge so long ago?”

Krishna: “This birth of mine is one of many. I am born in different ages in different forms. Men who have cleansed themselves have come to me and I have accepted them. It is knowledge that cleanses. Knowledge follows devotion. Use this knowledge to dispel your doubts.”

Arjuna: “How do you talk of action and abandonment of action as both commendable? Which is superior?”

Krishna: “Both lead to emancipation. But action is far superior of the two. Sankhya and Yoga are ultimately one. To be free from opposites, one should have no aversion or desire. But where there is devotion, the path is shorter. To be free is knowledge.”

Arjuna: “What of him who has faith, but has fallen short in devotion?”

Krishna: “Such a person will be born again for regeneration. Knowing me is the ultimate goal. Many who have strived hard have yet not reached me. I am the beginning and the end. I am the OM of the Vedas. Nothing can be attained beyond me. At the end of many lives the truly devoted can reach me.

“All are in me. I am in none. There are long stretches of time known as Kalpas. Everything ends in one Kalpa and everything starts again with another. I create the Kalpas. I sit outside them. Yet I am manifest in everything. All physical phenomena are I and so are thought. Those that do not know me have their thought on inconsequential things. There are many gods and many rishis who do not know me. The few who do have attained supreme knowledge.”

Arjuna: “How shall I attain that knowledge? What qualities of yours do I meditate upon?”

Krishna: “I am the foremost of all that is perfect. Among Adityas, I am Vishnu. Among mountains, I am Meru. Among the Rudras, I am Sankara. Among the Rishis, I am Narada. I am Vasudeva among the Vrishnis. I am Dhananjaya among the Pandavas. I am Vyasa among the ascetics. Whatever is great has a portion of me. I support the universe. I am the Adhyatman, the ultimate essence.”

Arjuna: “Show me then, you great one, your eternal form.”

Krishna revealed to Arjuna his supreme form. Struck with awe, Arjuna saw in it the entire universe. It was radiant like a thousand suns. All the gods, all the rishis were there. Into his mouth, Arjuna could see created beings rush, to be consumed by fire.

Gripped with fear, Arjuna asked, “What form is that you are showing me now?”

The god answered, “I am Death. All those warriors standing before me, Bhishma, Drona, Karna and the others, they are waiting to be consumed by me. With or without you, they would cease to be. Take your bow and release the shafts, with your right or left hand, and slay them. Consider it is I who is slaying them, not you.”

Trembling with fear and overawed by the apparition, Arjuna joined his hands. He bowed low and said, “Indeed you are the Supreme Being. The Rishis are right in proclaiming you so. I feel like a speck in front of you. Yet I thought of you as only Krishna of the Yadavas. I had equated myself with you, played with you, sat in the same table and presumed you were my companion. Pardon me for my innumerable lapses. Forgive me as a father forgives his son. This awesome sight I can stand no more. Please resume the form I am familiar with.”

Krishna said, “Fear not. This form is seen by you alone. There are very few before you who have seen it. Freed of all fear, resume your duty.”

Krishna returned to his normal form. All doubts dispelled from his mind, Arjuna got ready for the war.

Yudhishthira’s strange move

The mighty armies stood facing each other for the battle to begin. Suddenly it was observed that Yudhishthira alighted from his car and started walking towards the Kaurava side. Amazed at his conduct, Arjuna and Bhima followed him, asking where he was going. Krishna who could guess the reason bade the two brothers to stay back.

Approaching Bhishma, Yudhishthira prostrated before him. “O grandsire, with you we shall battle today. Grant me permission.”

Bhishma said, “Rise, O lord. Your action is commendable. Had you not come thus, I would have cursed you. Ask of me anything and I shall give it to you. Anything not connected with the battle.”

Yudhishthira said, “The Kauravas are being led by you. As long as you are alive there can be no victory for us. Tell me how we can kill you.”

Bhishma replied, “I am invincible. None amongst you or amongst the celestials can kill me. I have to choose my own time of death. Go now and come to me once again when doubt grips you.”

Yudhishthira next approached his preceptor, Drona, and asked him similarly how to kill him. Drona replied, “As long as I fight, there can be no victory for you. Therefore seek to destroy me early. I can be killed only when I lay down my arms and am in meditation. That will happen if I hear something disagreeable from someone who can be trusted.”

When Yudhishthira approached Kripa similarly, the teacher answered, “I am incapable of being slain. Fight as best as you can and victory will be yours.”

Finally, approaching Salya and paying his respects to him, Yudhishthira told him, “I solicit a boon from you. When Karna joins the fight and you navigate his chariot, do all you could to weaken him, by word and deed consistent with your duty.” Salya promised to do so.

With this, Yudhishthira returned to his chariot.

Krishna meets Karna again

While Yudhishthira was away, Krishna walked up to Karna. After greeting him he said, “As long as Bhishma leads Duryodhana’s forces, you would be sitting out of the battle. Join the Pandavas and fight for them till the time Bhishma falls. When Bhishma is gone, you may return to Duryodhana’s side.” Karna refused.

Yuyutsu joins Pandavas

Just before the battle commenced, Yuyutsu, Dhritarashtra’s son by a Vaisya, came to Yudhishthira. With devotion he said, “I shall fight for you. Please accept me.”

Yudhishthira replied, “I accept you, mighty one. This is also for the good. You alone of Dhritarashtra’s sons may survive this war. When the time comes, his last rites can be done by you.”

Day 1of Battle – Bhishma routs the Pandavas

There was great anticipation in both camps as the war was about to start. The men as well as the animals were raring to go. Duryodhana ordered strong protection for his chief commander, Bhishma.

With a great roar the two armies set on each other. The air was filled with the battle cry of the men. The elephants trumpeted aloud. The horses reared their forelegs and neighed. The commanders cried hoarse their instructions to the soldiers. When the clash between the two armies took place, a huge cloud of dust enveloped the place. Sounds of clashing metals and colliding bodies pervaded the atmosphere.

For the first part of the forenoon, thousands of individual engagements took place. Like attacked like, elephant against elephant, horse against horse and chariot against chariot.

The melee slowly gave way to concerted attacks. Foremost during the following part was the Pandava attack on Bhishma. Realising that he was the kingpin of the enemy, a host of Pandava heroes attacked him. Abhimanyu, the brave son of Arjuna, let go a shower of arrows on the grandsire. He made audacious advances. It pleased Bhishma to see Arjuna’s son display so much valour. Abhimanyu however had to leave, having lost his chariot.

A great duel took place between Salya and the youthful Virata prince, Uttara. It was a case of young impetuosity engaging age and experience. After a fierce battle, Uttara fell from his elephant. Salya jumped out of his chariot and directed a deadly arrow at him. The prince was pierced through.

Seeing Uttara fall, his brother Sweta mounted an attack on Salya. So effective it was that it looked as though Salya would succumb to it. Seven leading Kaurava warriors rushed to stave off Sweta. The Virata prince warded off all the seven, but Salya had meanwhile slipped away. Sweta’s brave stand drew Bhishma into the attack. The two were now engaged in a duel.

Sweta was able to cause extensive damage to Bhishma’s chariot. His standard with the palmyra insignia was cut down by Sweta’s arrows. The assault mounted by Virata’s son incensed the old warrior who vowed to kill him. He directed some deadly arrows at the prince who lost his charioteer and his four

steeds. Sweta jumped out of his car. He hurled a mace at Bhishma even as the Kaurava warrior jumped out of his chariot. The mace missed Bhishma but hit the chariot, which was reduced to ashes.

A host of Kauravas rushed to Bhishma’s aid. The venerable warrior mounted another car and from there aimed some deadly celestial weapons at Sweta. The Virata prince fell on the ground dead.

Reviewing this battle, Sanjaya commented that Bhishma had committed a transgression in that he attacked from his car the Virata prince who was on foot. According to the code of fair fight when a warrior loses his chariot and is stranded on the ground, he should be attacked only from the ground.

The day ended with the Pandavas suffering huge losses, thanks to the exertion of the Kaurava Commander-in-Chief. Bhima did cause some damage to the Dhritarashtra forces. But Arjuna kept a low profile.

Later in the evening, Yudhishthira sought Krishna and told him, “O Kesava. Bhishma has routed our forces today. Two of Drupada’s sons have been killed. As long as Bhishma leads the foes, we have no chance of victory. Rather than cause death to my friends, I shall retire to the forest and practice austerities.” Krishna raised his spirits with a few words, and a war council was held to plan for the next day.

Day 2 of Battle – Duryodhana taunts Bhishma

The Pandavas entered the battle on the second day adopting the Krauncha (a bird) formation, the one the teacher Brihaspati recommended to Indra in his fight against the asuras. Arjuna was at the head of the formation, while the other units took various positions as neck, wings, body and tail.

Quick to observe the Pandava formation, Duryodhana arranged with his commanders a counter-formation. Bhishma moved majestically to the center of the arena. He was surrounded by Salya, the brothers Bhagadatta and Bhusrisravas (sons of King Somadatta of the clan Bahlika) and Duryodhana with his brothers. The conches were sounded and the battle started.

Bhishma opened the day with a shower of arrows, the brunt of which was borne g foughtwarriors, Krishna drove Arjuna’s chariot with skill and took him to Bhishma’s proximity. Drona, Kripa, Duryodhana and Sala (another son of King Somadatta) rushed to support Bhishma. Arjuna repelled all of them, leaving only Bhishma in his front.

Seeing the intensity of Arjuna’s onslaught, Duryodhana was quick to tell the grandsire, “Because of you Karna is staying out of the war, leaving Arjuna stronger. Hence you should bring down the owner of Ghandiva.” Bhishma was not too happy at the taunt but nevertheless concentrated on Arjuna.

Between Arjuna and Bhishma, showers of arrows were exchanged. Three of Bhishma’s arrows struck Krishna on his chest. An angry Arjuna felled Bhishma’s charioteer in retaliation.

Other straight fights were being fought. Drona and Dhrishtadyumna were locked in battle. Each hit the other several times and blood flowed from both. Finally, Drona dislodged the Panchali prince who had to flee in another car.

The fiercest battle was between Bhima and the King of Kalinga. In this encounter Bhima was a clear victor. The king and two of his sons were felled by Bhima’s arrows and the Kalinga army ran away in terror.

As the shadows lengthened, Bhishma and Arjuna were still exchanging arrows, neither appearing to be capable of being slain. The sun had set, and the two armies pulled out of the battlefield for the day.

Day 3 of Battle – Bhishma pleads with Krishna to kill him

As day dawned, Bhishma ordered the Kauravas to adopt the Garuda (Kite) formation. He himself occupied the beak, with Aswatthama and Kripa in the head. Duryodhana and all his followers formed the back.

Observing the Kaurava formation, Arjuna countered with the half moon formation. He and Bhima were in the left and right horn. Between them were Virata, Nila and Dhrishtaketu. In the middle and rear were

the rest of the Pandava generals. Also in the rear were the five sons of Draupadi and Bhima’s son Ghatotkacha. There was an uproar when the two formations clashed.

As the battle developed, Arjuna was seen energetically chastising the Kaurava forces. Most of the commanders now turned against Arjuna with the object of felling him. A thousand cars converged on him and he was covered in a shower of arrows.

In a straight encounter, Bhima struck at Duryodhana who was forced to sit down on the deck of his car. His charioteer took him away. Bhima routed the forces left behind by Duryodhana.

Due to the steady attack of the Pandavas, Dhritarashtra’s army was fleeing in all directions. Bhishma and Drona alone stood and fought. Duryodhana reached Bhishma and taunted him once again. “With you, Drona and Kripa leading us, how can my army be in such disarray?” he asked.

Bhishma answered laughingly, “I have told you many times that the Pandavas are incapable of being vanquished. In spite of my old age, I am fighting as best as I could. Watch now how I check the Pandavas.”

A charged Bhishma entered the ranks of the Pandavas, killing anything that came his way. Those that dared to attack him fell like flies attacking a fire. Krishna told Arjuna, “Look Dhananjaya, our warriors are running away like weak animals at the sight of a lion.” Then on Arjuna’s command, Krishna took the chariot to Bhishma’s proximity.

As Bhishma sent a shower of arrows on Arjuna, the dexterous Pandava warrior responded with lightning reflex, drawing the admiration of the grandsire. Twice Arjuna broke Bhishma’s bow. But Bhishma’s arrows landed like lightning, leaving both the charioteer and the warrior struggling. Thousands of Kauravas converged on the besieged Arjuna, even as Krishna was wondering whether Arjuna was holding back on Bhishma out of reverence.

Krishna addressed Satyaki who was nearby. “Let those who are running away, run. I shall wipe out Bhishma and all the Kauravas with my discus. None will escape my anger.” So saying, he jumped out of his car and rushed towards Bhishma.

Observing Krishna’s wrath, Bhishma cried out, “O Krishna, O lord of the universe, I bow to you. I could pray for nothing better than death at your hands.”

Arjuna left the car and, running towards Krishna, he restrained the angry god. “O Krishna,” he begged. “Do not be rash. I swear that I shall fight with all my skill and rout the Kauravas. Do come back and take your seat in the chariot.”

As Krishna returned, a regenerated Arjuna broke into the Kaurava ranks, causing the death of ten thousand car-warriors and seven hundred elephants. As evening set in and the warriors were returning, there was talk everywhere of Arjuna’s achievement.

Day 4 of Battle – Bhima causes havoc

Battle commenced on the fourth day, with the atmosphere covered by the dust of the previous day. The battlefield looked eerie. The massive Kaurava formation, with Bhishma leading, ground ahead to meet the Pandavas. The sight of Arjuna at the vanguard of the Pandava army, however, inspired fear in the Kaurava ranks.

The battle started with the clash of the two mighty armies. In the welter, Bhishma, surrounded by Drona, Kripa, Vivingciti and Duryodhana, sought Arjuna. Showers of arrows were exchanged between the two.

Abhimanyu, who joined his father, held five kings belonging to the Kaurava forces at bay and fought like a lion among elephants. Seeing father and son besieged, Drishtayadumna rushed to their help.

Salya, the Madri king, now came under the Pandava attack. Ten divisions surrounded him, prominent among them being his own two nephews Nakula and Sahadeva.

Mace in hand, Bhima rushed in with a loud roar to Arjuna’s help. His very sight made the elephants tremble.

The ruler of the Magadhas, Dandadhara, advanced in a majestic elephant. Man and elephant were brought down by Abhimanyu. The elephant force buckled, as many amongst them were massacred by Bhima.

In order to check Bhima, Duryodhana deployed his entire force to attack the Pandava prince. Bhima, swinging his mace fiercely, kept them all at bay. Bhishma now rushed towards Bhima. The Vrishni hero, Satyaki, sprung on Bhishma’s forces and scattered them.

Suddenly, Satyaki became the eye of the whirlpool that drew the armies of both sides. Duryodhana now turned to Bhima, intent on felling him. He was followed by fourteen of his brothers. Seeing Bhima fall, Duryodhana left him for his brothers to handle. But Bhima quickly regained his ground and attacked the hapless brothers. Eight of them were killed and the rest fled the field. With this Bhima opened his account of Duryodhana’s brothers killed.

Bhagadatta now entered the fray and attacked Bhima. He managed to hit Bhima on his breast causing the Pandava hero to sit, holding to his flagstaff. Ghatotkacha materialized from nowhere to protect his father. He was followed by several Rakshasas on elephants, all assuming gigantic forms.

Seeing Bhagadatta in a tight spot, Drona rushed to his rescue. He was chased by the Pandava forces. Mercifully for Bhagadatta, the sun dipped into the horizon and Bhishma proclaimed the day’s battle over.

While Bhima and Ghatotkacha led the Pandavas back to their camp with leonine roars, Duryodhana retired to mourn the loss of his brothers.

After listening to the account given by Sanjaya of the day’s battle, the king asked, “You are always giving me news that is in high praise of the Pandavas. All I hear about is the setback my son is suffering. Why is this so? Are the Pandavas invincible? Cannot they be slain?”

Sanjaya replied, “Even this, O great King, is the question asked by your son of Bhishma. And this is what his grandsire told him. Krishna and Arjuna are the great sages Nara and Narayana who have taken birth

in order to purge the world of evil elements, as the Dwapara age is yielding to the Kali age. The Pandavas are celestials whom none among the Kauravas could kill, Bhishma included. It is for this reason that the grandsire is once again advising Duryodhana to make peace with them and enjoy the earth. He advises in vain.”

Day 5 of Battle – Honours are shared

Bhishma launched the fifth day of the battle with the Makara (crocodile) formation. As usual, he led the assault. The Pandavas countered this with the Syena (hawk) formation with Bhima in the beak. He had for the eyes Sikhandin and Dhrishtadyumna. Arjuna occupied the neck and the rest, the other parts of the body.

When the battle started, Bhima led his forces right into the mouth of the Makara. This took Arjuna to the presence of Bhishma. As the two were exchanging arrows, Sikhandin drove across towards Bhishma. Bhishma lowered his bow, not wishing to hit the Panchala prince whom he believed to be a woman. Drona rushed to take control and relieved Bhishma of the stress.

Remembering the carnage caused by Bhima the previous day, Bhishma and the other Kaurava generals surrounded the mighty Pandava prince in order to disable him. Arjuna rushed to his brother’s aid and attacked the grandsire. The scorching pace of Arjuna put the Kaurava army in total disarray, with Bhishma alone successful in checking him.

Each of the Pandava generals picked on an adversary, and there were many straight fights. Loss in terms of car-warriors and steed was high on both sides. Many elephants fell, and the field was strewn with their carcasses.

Lakshmana, Duryodhana’s son, and Abhimanyu were engaged in a headlong conflict. Though he fought bravely, Lakshmana could not stand Abhimanyu’s assault. He swooned and fell. Kripa picked him in his car and took him to safety.

With fighting fierce at various parts of the battlefield, the horizon slowly changed its hue from orange to blue. The fifth day of battle had come to a close.

Day 6 of Battle – Dhritarashtra’s frustration and Sanjaya’s answer

On the sixth day, Yudhishthira entered the arena with the Makara (crocodile) formation. Bhimasena, Drupada and Arjuna were in the forefront, followed by Nakula and Sahadeva. Observing the Pandava move, Bhishma adopted the Crane countermove. Drona was at its beak while Aswatthama and Kripa constituted the eyes.

The battle commenced with the great clash of men, animals and weapons. The leaders on both sides, Drona and Bhima attacked each other. Others picked up their adversaries and fighting became fierce.

Dhritarashtra interrupted the narrative and asked Sanjaya, “Our army is the best equipped one ever to take to the battlefield. Our soldiers are selected on the strength of their ability and not on the basis of lineage. They don’t drink or fritter their energies. They are well paid and well trained. They are provided with the best weapons. They have lions for their leaders. Yet they suffer defeat in the hands of the Pandavas. Is this due to destiny?”

Sanjaya answered, “This is the result of your own sin. Several times you were warned by Bhishma, Drona, Vidura and me not to provoke the Pandavas to a war. You ignored us all and preferred to follow the path of your evil son. Now you are witnessing the decimation of the Kauravas by Pandu’s sons.” Sanjaya continued with his narration of the war.

Having broken the Kaurava array, Bhima entered into the heart of their formation. Suddenly he found himself surrounded by several car-warriors of the Kaurava army. Bhima found himself isolated as these warriors closed in with the idea of killing the Pandava.

Bhima abandoned his car and jumped into the melee, his mace swinging. He caused immense loss to the Kauravas, fatally hitting elephants and smashing chariots. Beholding Bhima alone and surrounded by the Kauravas, Dhrishtadyumna rushed to his aid. Fighting bravely, he gained entry into the ring of Kaurava warriors who were stalking Bhima. Bhima jumped into the Panchala prince’s chariot and the two scattered arrows on the Kauravas. Duryodhana ordered his men to kill Dhrishtadyumna.

The Panchala prince now used his deadly weapon called Pramohana, which stunned the Kaurava warriors. Observing this, Drona rushed to the scene and used his weapon called Prajna to neutralize the Pramohana weapon.

Cut off from the two warriors, Yudhishthira became anxious for their welfare. He sent heavy reinforcements. Abhimanyu and a host of others rushed in, scattering the Kaurava ranks. Blows were traded between the two forces.

The battlefield became an ocean of blood, the shafts were like eddies, the bodies of elephants were like islands, and the chariots seemed like boats. By the time the rival forces were withdrawn for the day, the battlefield was covered with the bodies of warriors, giving it a frightful aspect. Those that survived returned to their camps to apply unguents on their wounds and to recover their strength for the morrow.

Day 7 of Battle – Abhimanyu lets off Duryodhana’s brothers

Bhishma arrayed his forces in the Mandala (circular) formation to take on the Pandavas on the seventh day. Yudhishthira countered with the Vajra (thunderbolt) formation.

After the initial clash, individual encounters commenced. Three of Dhritarashtra’s sons attacked Abhimanya who staved them off. Drona and his son were pitched against Sikhandin. Duryodhana rushed at Dhrishtadyumna. The rakshasa son of Rishyasringar, Alumbasa, attacked the Vrishni hero Satyaki. Thousands of Kaurava warriors surrounded Arjuna in order to contain him.

Krishna cleverly navigated the besieged Arjuna. The Pandava hero soon had to use his Aindra weapon of celestial quality. The arrows dispersed in all directions, hitting the Kaurava warriors. Unable to stand the intensity of the weapon, the warriors retreated, some of them turning to Bhishma for protection. Kaurava losses were heavy in this encounter.

Virata was engaged in a contest with Drona. Drona dispossessed the old warrior of his chariot. Jumping down from his disintegrating car, Virata got into the chariot of his son, Sankhya. Drona’s arrows pierced Sankhya at his breast, and the prince fell down dead. Virata fled from the scene.

Meanwhile, Aswatthama kept up his assault on Sikhandin. The Panchala prince had to abandon his chariot and get into that of Satyaki. Satyaki himself, finding the pressure from Alumbasa unbearable, used the Aindra, taught him by his preceptor, Arjuna. The rakshasa fled away in fear.

Dhritarashtra interrupted Sanjaya. He asked, “My troops are also fighting bravely. Why are they not achieving more?”

Sanjaya replied, “Just as the waters of the ocean remain brackish even after contact with the holy river Ganga, so do your troops fail to match the Pandavas despite their resolute fight.”

As the sun neared the meridian, Ghatotkacha was engaged in a fierce fight with Bhagadatta. In this encounter, Bhagadatta got the better of Bhima’s son who had to flee.

Salya, the Madri king, and his two nephews were locked in a roaring combat. The nephews got the better of their uncle who abandoned his position. Though losing the fight, Salya was heartened by his nephews’ skill.

Chekitana of the Satwata (Yadava) race encountered Kripa. They were equally matched. Both lost their chariots and started fighting on the ground with sabres. Both fell unconscious and were whisked away by their supporters.

In the battle where three of Duryodhana’s brothers, Chatanika, Chitrasena and Vikarna were opposing Abhimanyu, Arjuna’s son was at the point of killing them. Just then he remembered Bhima’s vow to kill all hundred sons of Dhritarashtra by his own hands. He allowed the three to escape.

Sixty car-warriors who surrounded Arjuna were all consumed by his firepower.

Yuthishthira goaded the Panchali prince, Sikhandin, by reminding him of his duties. An inspired Sikhandin used the Varuna (master of the ocean) weapon, which baffled all the Kauravas who were surrounding him.

As the evening shadows stretched, the armies left behind the carnage generated during the day and returned to their camps.

Day 8 of Battle – Iravat, Arjuna’s valiant son

The Kauravas entered the field on the eighth day forming an array that had its front as solid as a wall. Bhishma, Duryodhana, his brother Chitrasena, and Vivingsati rode side by side in their majestic chariots. Next in line were Drona and Bhagadatta. Behind them were Aswatthama and the ruler of Kosala, Brihadbala.

Yudhishthira countered the Kauravas with the formation known as Sringataka, with Bhima and Satyaki occupying the horns. After the clash of sabre with sabre, chariot with chariot and animal with animal, strategic encounters began.

Duryodhana, with his brothers, gave a circle of protection to Bhishma so that the grandsire could concentrate on the Pandava warriors. Bhima attacked the circle. As a result, eight of Duryodhana’s brothers fell to Bhima’s arrows. The other brothers fled. Duryodhana turned to Bhishma and shouted, “My heroic brothers are being killed one by one. Yet you do not interfere, as though you were a spectator.” Bhishma replied, “These events are happening just as Vidura, Drona and I had warned. Keep fighting and make heaven your goal.”

Arjuna, during his twelve years of self-imposed exile, had met a princess of the Nagas, Ulipi, of the serpent world. He left her immediately and was therefore not aware that out of their union a son was born. The son was named Iravat. Later, when Arjuna was staying with Indra, he was sought by Iravat. Arjuna was immensely pleased to meet his son, now an accomplished young boy. When they parted, Iravat promised to turn up when the Great War took place in order to help his father.

On the eighth day of the war, Iravat turned up at Kurukshetra to fight for the Pandavas. Riding on a majestic steed, he had a cavalry behind him. Six of Sakuni’s sons on horses went forth to stalk the Naga prince. Sakuni’s sons fought bravely and brought Iravat down from his charger. Iravat stood his ground with a sword in his hand. Finding this an opportune time, six sons of Sakuni jumped from their horses and attacked Iravat on foot. In the fight that ensued, five of the brothers were cut to pieces by Iravat, while the sixth one ran away, badly wounded.

Seeing the carnage caused by Iravat, Duryodhana thought it appropriate to send the rakshasa, Alumbasa, to fight him. A fierce battle ensued, where both combatants used skill and magic power to fox each other. In the end, however, Iravat was slain.

Agitated by the death of Iravat, Ghatotkacha attacked Duryodhana. Unable to stand the rakshasa’s wizardry on the field, Duryodhana rushed to Bhishma, complaining. Bhishma advised him that like should fight like. Duryodhana should fight with the foremost warriors among the Pandavas, and not pitch at all and sundry. Bhagadatta was sent to contain Ghatotkacha.

By sunset, Bhima had killed seven more of Dhritarashtra’s sons.

Late in the evening, Duryodhana, Karna, Sakuni and Duscasana were discussing the day’s events. Duryodhana expressed his frustration at the poor showing of his army, despite having as its leaders Bhishma, Drona and Kripa. “It is obvious that due to their affection for the Pandavas, our leaders do not want to kill them,” Duryodhana said.

Karna addressed them, “It is because of Bhishma that I am watching everything helplessly. If he should withdraw, then I would certainly join the fight and annihilate the Pandavas. Persuade him to lay down his arms.”

Duryodhana, followed by many of his brothers, proceeded to Bhishma’s tent. After paying his respects to the grandsire, Duryodhana told him, “You are capable of wiping out the Pandavas. Either out of hatred for me or love for the Pandavas, you are not vanquishing them. If that is the case, let Karna be permitted to fight.”

Duryodhana’s words pierced Bhishma’s heart. “Your words are like dagger to me and I deeply grieve at them. I am endeavouring my best to win this war for you. You are talking of Karna taking over. Just remember that his record against the Pandavas has been dismal. Many times Arjuna has stripped him of his very clothes. I assure you that either I will send the Pandavas to heaven or, slain by them, I shall myself go there.”

Day 9 of Battle – How to kill Bhishma?

Duryodhana realized the need to provide a strong cordon around Bhishma to protect him from the twin dangers of Sikhandin and Arjuna. The next day he asked Drona, Kripa, Sakuni, Salya and Vivingsati to give maximum protection to the grandsire. The Kauravas entered the field with the Sarvatobhadra (a square) formation.

In the counter-formation, Yudhishthira, Bhima and the twins were in the vanguard. In the middle were Arjuna and Sikhandin, while the other generals formed the back.

The drums and cymbals sounded and with a roar the two armies clashed. Early in the battle, Abhimanyu made a dash at Duryodhana’s ranks, causing great damage. Duryodhana became concerned with the onslaught. He summoned the rakshasa, Alumbasa, and commanded him to lead the attack on Abhimanyu. Like an elephant trampling lotus-stalks, Alumbasa attacked the Pandava forces. The five sons of Draupadi joined the battle and sought to cut off Alumbasa with a fierce offensive. They were, however, effectively countered by the rakshasa who made them abandon their chariots. Confronting Abhimanyu, Alumbasa used his magic powers to confuse the brave son of Subhadra. But Abhimanyu was more than a match to the rakshasa who was ultimately rescued by Bhishma.

For most of the morning, Arjuna stayed in the rear while the other four brothers kept up an attack on the grandsire. Bhishma was at his fierce best as he cut the Somakas, a sizeable division of the Pandava forces. The Pandavas were finding it extremely difficult to keep the old warrior in check.

Krishna spoke to Arjuna, reminding him of his resolve to wipe out the Kaurava forces. He then took Arjuna very near Bhishma and secured for him an advantageous position from which to attack. But he found Arjuna’s offensive mild, as though there was a lack of resolve. In anger, Krishna once more left the chariot and started walking towards Bhishma, intent on fighting him. Bhishma looked at him expectantly and expressed his eagerness to be killed by the god. Arjuna jumped out of the chariot and caught Krishna by his leg at the tenth step.

“O mighty one, it behoves you not to get angry,” Arjuna said. “I swear that I shall exert myself fully to slay the grandsire and wipe out the Kaurava army.” In the battle that followed, Arjuna fought bravely. Yet Bhishma was unstoppable. The casualty suffered in his hands by the Pandava army was enormous. The battle raged till sunset.

Back in the Pandava camp Yudhishthira was very depressed by the sufferings caused by Bhishma to his forces. There seemed to be only one course left. To seek advise from Bhishma himself. The five Pandava brothers, along with Krishna, proceeded unarmed to Bhishma’s tent.

Yudhishthira expressed to Bhishma, “This carnage of Kshatriyas is proceeding unabated. As long as you live, we have no hope of victory. Tell us how to kill you and bring this war to an end.”

Bhishma said, “It is true that I stand between you and victory. None save Krishna has the capability to slay me. He is however not taking arms. It is good that you have come to me and asked this question or there would be no end to this war. You will win only after I fall.”

Yudhishthira asked again, “How do we make you fall?”

Bhishma replied. ”When I lay down my arms, any car warrior can slay me. One who has thrown away his weapons, one who has fallen down, one whose armour has slipped, one whose standard is down, one who is running away, one who is frightened, one who surrenders, one who is a female or bears a female name and one who has a single son – with these persons I do not battle. The time of my death, however, is to be chosen by me.

“O sons of Pandu! I permit you to kill me in battle if that would bring you victory. The Drupada prince, Sikhandin, is, in my opinion, a female. Let Dhananjaya place such a person in my front and fight. It is then that you could kill me.”

The Pandavas returned to their camp, their hopes revived.

Day 10 of Battle – Closing-in on Bhishma

With Bhishma’s death as their goal, the Pandavas formed their array with Sikhandin in the front. Protecting his car wheels were Bhima and Arjuna on either side. All the other mighty Pandava warriors

were placed behind them. In the Kauravas’ show of might, Bhishma was at the head. Drona, Kripa, Bhagadatta and others were close behind him, lending support.

The two formations got closer, with Arjuna smiting the Kaurava hosts and Bhishma afflicting the Pandavas. Soon Sikhandin and Bhishma were within distance of hearing each other. Bhishma told Drupada’s son, “I know you to be the Sikhandin as god created. You are a woman and I shall not fight you.”

His wrath kindled, Sikhandin answered, “I know your prowess very well, son of Ganga. I know about your humbling the great Parasurama. But I swear that I shall kill you today, whether you fight or not.” So saying, Sikhandin directed several arrows against Bhishma, with Arjuna encouraging him from his side.

Meanwhile, the other Kaurava warriors came in between, relieving Bhishma from the Pandava attack. In the exchange of blows, many from both the ranks fell. Mounting a severe attack on Arjuna, Duscasana fought bravely and acquitted himself very well. Bhima was locked in battle with Bhurisravas. Gadotkacha was challenged by Durmukha, Duryodhana’s brother. Drona was felling sizeable chunks of the Pandava army.

As Sikhandin and Arjuna zeroed in on Bhishma, Duryodhana ordered his generals to rush to the grandsire’s aid. But Arjuna drove them all with his prowess. Even as Sikhandin was striking Bhishma with his arrows, the old warrior ignored him. With great energy the grandsire was fighting off the other Pandavas.

Bhishma was steadily outnumbered as the Pandavas poured their arrows on him. Arjuna directed at him many of his choicest weapons. Bhishma looked at the sky and said, “The time for my return has come. I want to lay my life.” The Vasus, his companions in heaven, answered from above, “Even so be it.”

Both Sikhandin and Arjuna poured arrows on the grandsire. Bhishma told Duscasana who was at his side, “Behold those arrows coming in a continuous line. Those are from the wielder of the Gandiva, not from Sikhandin.”

Attacked by those mighty shafts of Arjuna, Bhishma fell, his head to the east.

Even as he fell, his mother, Ganga, sent to him a host of rishis in the form of swans. The rishis circled her illustrious son and reminded him that the sun was at its southern solstice, which was not an auspicious time to die. Bhishma resolved that he would not give up his life till the sun crossed to its northern solstice. He lay there on a bed of arrows.

Fighting came to a stop as the Kauravas started to move about in a daze, rudely shocked by their commander’s fall. Grief struck the Pandavas equally. Warriors from both sides surrounded the great man.

Bhishma said, “Get me a pillow to lay my head.” The kings from both camps rushed and found soft pillows for him. Bhishma refused them. He turned to Arjuna and said, “O Dhananjaya, provide me with support for my head.” The Pandava hero, with tears in his eyes, guided three shafts from his Gandiva on the ground that provided support to the recumbent hero’s head.

Duryodhana sent for the physicians to attend on the fallen soldier. Bhishma turned them away. He expressed his desire that after his death, he should be burnt with the innumerable arrows still stuck on him.

CHAPTER 7

DRONA PARVA

Synopsis

Day 11 of Battle – Drona becomes Kaurava military chief. Day 12 of Battle – I shall capture Yudhishthira, vows Drona. Day 13 of Battle – Abhimanyu and the Chakra formation. Day 14 of Battle – A day without end for Jayadratha. Day 15 of Battle – The prince of truth utters a lie.

Day 11 of Battle – Drona becomes Kaurava military chief

Bhishma, The Terrible. The Pure. The Perfect. Even as day dawned, crowds milled to have a glimpse of the fallen hero. Soldiers paid their respects, women showered sandal powder on him and ordinary citizens circumambulated him, weeping.

Pandavas and Kauravas stood around him as he lay in the battlefield, their enmity temporarily forgotten.

The old hero said, “My throat has become dry. Let me have some water.” Water in ornamental containers was rushed to him. He refused them all. “I shall have none of these,” he said, and turned once again to Arjuna. The son of Pandu struck an arrow to the ground from his Gandiva, causing a fountain to spring. The water that gushed out gratified the fallen warrior.

Addressing Arjuna, Bhishma said, “Those who know you know that you are the rishi Nara. With the god Narayana by your side, is there anything you cannot achieve?” To Duryodhana he said, “Even now it is not late. Make peace with the Pandavas. You cannot vanquish them. You saw Arjuna’s feat. With Vasudeva by his side you can never hope for victory against the Pandavas.”

The dying man’s words were wasted on the Kaurava prince. Duryodhana said, “As a Kshatriya it is my duty to fight, even if death is waiting for me. Permit me to fight, grandsire.” Bhishma replied, “Resolved as you are to seek heaven through a hero’s death by falling in the battlefield, I permit you to fight.” Duryodhana departed with a sad heart.

Hearing about the fall of Bhishma, Karna repaired to Duryodhana. Karna said, “O mighty king! The lion among men has fallen. Him no human or celestial can defeat, now lies brought down by Arjuna’s arrows. But you should not grieve. I am more than a match to all the Pandavas. Because of Bhishma I have not fought these last ten days. I shall now fight. Victory will be yours.”

Karna then proceeded to where the grandsire was lying. He told Bhishma, “Without you, the Kauravas are bereft of their most able hero and guide. But I assure you that I shall endeavour my best to protect

the Kauravas and fight till my last breadth for their victory.” Bhishma appreciated Karna for his resolve and asked him to look after the Kauravas as a father does his son.

When Karna met Duryodhana again, the two discussed the question of who should be appointed supreme commander, now that Bhishma was in his deathbed. Karna recommended Drona for the office. Duryodhana agreed. Drona was sent for and invested with the job of leading the Kaurava army.

Planning the strategy to be adopted against the Pandavas, Duryodhana sought a boon from Drona. When the preceptor agreed to give one, Duryodhana said, “I would want you to capture Yudhishthira and bring him to me.”

Drona was gladdened by this request. He asked the prince, “It is, no doubt, to conclude peace with him that you want me to bring him to you alive. Are you planning to return to them their kingdom?”

Duryodhana answered, “If Yudhishthira is killed there are the other Pandava brothers. I want Yudhishthira alive so that I can play dice with him again and deprive him of everything.”

Pained though he was by Duryodhana’s crooked thinking, Drona nevertheless said, “I shall certainly try to fulfill your desire. However, I want to make it clear that Yudhishthira cannot be captured as long as Arjuna is nearby to protect him. Device a strategy to keep Arjuna away from his eldest brother. I shall then capture the Pandava king.”

Yudhishthira came to know of Duryodhana’s plan and he told his generals to provide him with maximum protection. Arjuna swore that he would never let his king be captured by Drona.

Drona adopted the Cakata (cartwheel) formation as he led his forces into the field. The Pandavas countered with the Krauncha (crane) formation. Drona started with an offensive which took a heavy toll of the Pandava forces. Arjuna, Drupada, Abhimanyu and a host of others turned their attention to Drona in order to check him. Drona launched a fierce onslaught on the Pandavas. But he could not reach Yudhishthira.

The day passed in many individual encounters. But the Kaurava objective was to keep Arjuna engaged so that Drona could capture Yudhishthira. This they failed to do. Yudhishthira returned safely to his camp.

Drona was crestfallen at his failure. As Duryodhana taunted him, Drona reiterated that as long as the Pandava king was protected by Arjuna, he could not be captured. A strategy had to be devised. Someone should challenge Arjuna for a fight and engage him at another part of the battlefield.

Day 12 of Battle – I shall capture Yudhishthira, vows Drona

The next morning the Kauravas set the eldest of the Trigartas, Susarman of Prasthala, with his followers, to challenge Arjuna to a fight. Honouring Kshatriya traditions, Arjuna accepted the challenge. Arjuna knew that in his absence the Kauravas would mount an attack on Yudhishthira. He detailed Satyajit of the Panchalas, a capable general, to stay close to Yudhishthira.

Krishna took Arjuna to the quarter where Susarman was waiting with his Trigarta and Samasapthaka (do-or-die) squads. Joining them was the host of Narayanas, Krishna’s own force, now fighting for the Kauravas. To cope with their numbers, Arjuna first blew his conch to put fear in them. He then released a weapon, Tashtra, which was capable of creating an illusion. The motley force saw innumerable Arjunas and Krishnas. Thoroughly confused, they started to kill each other. Arjuna then used a weapon, Vayavya (wind), which created a terrific storm that swept away the Samasapthakas along with their cars and animals.

Meanwhile, Drona found his strategy working to his advantage. With Arjuna out of the way, the Pandava defence buckled under Drona’s attack. Satyajit was killed in a straight battle with Drona. Drona was now within hand’s reach of Yudhishthira. But his prey still eluded him as the Pandavas, headed by Bhima, rushed to rescue their king. The battle was now joined by warriors from both sides.

Arjuna was aware of the siege his king was under. But he decided to stay and deal with the Samasapthakas. In the end he used the highly potent Brahma weapon, which wiped out most of the desperate fighters. His job done for the present, Arjuna rushed to take Drona.

Arjuna was now accosted by the spirited Kaurava general, Bhagadatta. After many exchanges of arrows, Bhagadatta hurled at Arjuna his weapon called Vaishnava. Krishna quickly stepped across and received

the weapon on his chest. Puzzled by Krishna’s action, Arjuna asked for an explanation. Krishna said, “This Vaishnava weapon was given by me to Naraka Asura who passed it on to Bhagadatta. It is capable of slaying even Indra and Rudra. It is to neutralize it that I received it on my chest.” In the next few minutes Arjuna directed an arrow at Bhagadatta which killed him.

Until evening did Drona try to take Yudhishthira captive. But with Arjuna back and Bhima fighting at his best, he had to retire with his vow unfulfilled.

Drona’s repeated failure to capture Yudhishthira weighed heavily on the Kaurava forces. Duryodhana was quick to point out to the preceptor that he had failed to keep his promise. The Kaurava prince’s words were like dagger to Drona. He said, “Where there is Arjuna and Krishna, no force in the three worlds can win. This I have told you several times. I now vow that in tomorrow’s battle I shall slay a very important Pandava.” This gave Duryodhana some solace.

Day 13 of Battle – Abhimanyu and the Chakra formation

“If all the best qualities of the five Pandava princes and that of Krishna are to be found concentrated in one person, that person can easily be the prince Abhimanyu.” Thus did Sanjaya describe Arjuna’s son to Dhritarashtra.

A determined Drona entered the battlefield on the thirteenth day, his forces arrayed in the Chakra (circular) formation. The formation dazzled as all the kings supporting the Kaurava cause took their places, resplendent in their glittering armours and ornaments.

In the absence of Arjuna, Yudhishthira told Abhimanyu to keep Drona and his forces under check. Arjuna had gone to take care of the unfinished job of the previous day, to annihilate what was left of Susarman’s forces.

Yudhishthira told Abhimanyu, “This Chakra array formed by Drona is impenetrable for all but four persons. Three of them are Arjuna, Krishna and his son Pradyumna. The fourth one is you. Since the other three are not present here, it becomes your responsibility to tackle Drona and break his cordon.”

Abhimanyu replied, “That is true. But my father taught me only to break into the array. Not to come out of it.”

Yudhishthira said, “You break into the array. We shall all closely follow you inside. Once inside, we shall tackle the enemy.” With great enthusiasm, Abhimanyu undertook the task.

The Pandava formation with Bhima at its head and the other warriors on either side, dashed against the Kauravas like a giant wave against a rock.

There was a churning of the forces as the Pandava and Kaurava hosts met, like a great river mixing with the ocean. Abhimanyu took the lead and pierced the Kaurava defence. He released arrows all around, causing immense loss to Duryodhana’s forces. The Kaurava prince commanded all his men to concentrate on Abhimanyu. Even the enemy had to admire the skill of Arjuna’s son as he scattered them at will.

The rest of the Pandavas were quick to rush to Abhimanyu’s support. It was only Jayadratha, Dhritarashtra’s son-in-law, who was able to check the Pandavas. For, it was indeed Jayadratha’s day when he could keep all the Pandavas, excepting Arjuna, at bay. During the exile of the Pandavas, the Sindhu prince misbehaved with Draupadi when she was alone in her forest abode. Caught red handed by the Pandavas, he was reprimanded by Bhima. Jayadratha felt deeply humiliated. He returned home, licking his wounds.

“It is because I am not strong enough that the Pandavas could treat me thus,” thought Jayadratha. To gain strength he performed a penance to Lord Siva. The god was pleased and gave him a boon that during the war, he would, for one day, hold all Pandavas, excepting Arjuna, under check. That boon was now working.

Rukmartha, the Madras prince, was in wrath at Abhimanyu’s onslaught. He got into a duel with the Pandava prince who promptly dispatched him to the abode of Yama. Many lesser-known princes followed Rukmartha’s path.

Karna made several futile attempts to contain Abhimanyu. Every time he did so, he was repelled. Driven to desperation, he rushed to Drona for advise. Drona told him, “Arjuna’s son has mastered the art of

protecting himself with his armour. Further, as long as he moves in his chariot and wields his bow, he cannot be checked. Concentrate on dispossessing him of his chariot.”

Karna and the other Kaurava warriors struck at Abhimanyu’s charioteer and steeds, killing them all. They then attacked the chariot and reduced it to pieces. Abhimanyu, forced to abandon his chariot, rushed to the ground with a mace in hand. He crushed with his mace whatever or whoever came in his way.

Duscasana who was in the thick of the battle rushed at Abhimanyu with his mace. The two traded blows and Abhimanyu fell down. The exertion of the last few hours was telling on the Pandava prince. The leading Kaurava warriors closed in on him. Thanks to Jayadratha, help from the Pandavas was not reaching him. Fatigue caused him to slow down. Even as he was rising, Duscasana struck Abhimanyu on the crown. The blow was decisive. The hero fell, having fought single-handed a host of Kauravas including Drona and Kripa. Abhimanyu’s death brought him kudos, but it also brought condemnation to those who dealt it to him. The Pandavas had to retreat, leaving Abhimanyu behind.

After the day’s war, the highly dispirited Pandavas returned to camp earlier than Arjuna did. Lamenting the fact that he was responsible for sending Abhimanyu into the trap laid by the Kauravas, Yudhishthira was distressed at the prospect of having to break the news to Arjuna and Krishna.

Vyasa arrived at this juncture. He gave a discourse to Yudhishthira on the inevitability of death and on how illustrious fathers in the past had borne their sons’ death. There is a tradition of listening to such discourses when one is in grief. It is said to bring solace.

When Arjuna returned to the camp after slaughtering the Samasapthakas, he was given a detailed account of Abhimanyu’s death. Infuriated at the role of Jayadratha in the killing, the wielder of Gandiva swore that before sunset next day he would kill the Sindhu king. If he failed, Arjuna vowed, he would enter fire. In wrath Krishna blew his Panchajanya and as the wind carried its sound to the Kaurava camp, the heroes among them shivered like little animals.

Spies brought to the Kaurava camp, news about Arjuna’s vow. Jayadratha ran to Duryodhana, frightened for his life. He sought permission to return home in order to escape Arjuna’s fury. Duryodhana advised him to stay, assuring that Drona would give him all the protection that he needed.

Krishna was troubled as he went to bed that night. He realized that killing Jayadratha would be no easy task, with Drona protecting the Sindhu king. He called his charioteer Daruka and ordered that his chariot and weapons be kept ready for the next day and that he should follow Arjuna’s chariot.

Pacified by the words of Krishna at Abhimanyu’s death, Arjuna was able to enter the world of slumber. In his dream he was awakened by Krishna who told him, “Dhananjaya, the challenge you have thrown for the ‘morrow is indeed difficult to achieve. Now is the time to approach the god Rudra and obtain the Pasupata missile that he promised to give you. Let us together proceed to his abode.”

So saying, Krishna took Arjuna by his hand, and they were traveling at the speed of thought. Reaching Siva’s abode in the Himalayas, they stood facing the hill and prayed. The mountain god appeared before them and expressed his happiness to see Nara and Narayana together.

When Arjuna told him the purpose of their visit, Siva directed them to a lake. There they found two serpents, each having a thousand heads, rising out to greet them. As they came out, the serpents transformed themselves into a bow and arrow. Arjuna reverentially picked them up and, with Krishna, he went back to Siva. From Siva’s body, a form emerged which was tall, strong and beautiful. The form taught Arjuna how to handle the weapon and the mantra which went with it. Arjuna quickly grasped the procedures and memorized the mantra. He and Krishna returned after paying their respects to Pasupati.

Day 14 of Battle – A day without end for Jayadratha

Part the cartwheel formation of Cakata and part Circle was the plan that Drona devised for the fourteenth day of battle, having foremost in his mind, the protection of Jayadratha. Around Jayadratha, who was deep inside the Cakata, were posted the best among the Kauravas including Karna, Aswatthama, Salya and Kripa. An immense army was deployed around the Sindhu king. Drona himself stood at the entrance of the Cakata.

As the Pandava attack commenced, the sound of the conches Devadatta and Panchajanya heralded the approach of Arjuna with his illustrious charioteer. The mercurial warrior shattered the Kaurava defence, causing many kings to run for cover. Duscasana who sought to check the flood, had to retreat with his force depleted. Brushing aside all opposition, Arjuna was face to face with Drona. After bowing to his preceptor, the favourite student commenced his attack.

Unable to ward off Drona despite using the Brahma weapon, Arjuna changed his tactics. He sidetracked the preceptor and penetrated into the Kaurava formation.

Srutayudha, the mighty king, was the son of Varuna (rain god) of a river called Parnasa. His mother prayed intensely for the invincibility of her son. She was rewarded when Varuna gave Srutayudha a mace that could kill any foe. A condition attached to the weapon was that if it is directed against an unarmed person, it will return to kill its owner. When this king attacked Arjuna, he was unfortunate to hurl the mace at Krishna who was unarmed. The mace returned and killed the hurler.

Next to fall while fighting against Arjuna was Sudhakshina, the prince of Kambhoja. Many princes of diverse races, along with their forces, fell to Arjuna’s wrath. In a panic Duryodhana approached Drona, appealing to him to neutralize Arjuna.

Drona told him, “At this moment I see Yudhishthira isolated from Arjuna. I should concentrate my efforts on him. You attack Arjuna.” Duryodhana confessed that it was beyond his power to hold Arjuna. Drona then gave him an armour capable of warding off attack from any power.

“This armour was the one used by Indra to vanquish his foe, Vritra,” Drona explained to Duryodhana. “It has come down through several sages to my teacher, Agnivesa, who gave it to me. Wear it and you would be safe”

Drona’s attempt to reach Yudhishthira turned out to be futile as the Pandava king had a strong cordon around him. Dhrishtadyumna, Satyaki, Bhima, Virata and his sons and others, despite having to face a formidable Drona, were successfully protecting their king.

When Arjuna and Krishna found Duryodhana giving them a chase, they wondered what his inspiration was. They soon found that none of Arjuna’s arrows could penetrate the Kaurava prince’s armour. Arjuna quickly recognized the armour and told Krishna about it. Instead of directing his arrows on Duryodhana, Arjuna proceeded to kill his charioteers and steeds and finally blew up his chariot. He then sent a few arrows, which pierced Duryodhana’s palms, making him incapable of using his bow. The Kaurava forces quickly rescued their king and bore him away.

Drona made good progress and was able to get Yudhishthira leave his car and stand on the ground defenceless. But the Pandava forces quickly picked him up and took him away to safety. A fierce battle took place between the two rakshasas, Ghatotkacha and Alumbasa where Bhima’s son subdued his counterpart in the Kaurava army.

Satyaki was specifically instructed by Arjuna to stay with Yudhishthira and protect him. But Yudhishthira was now confident that the other Pandava heroes could provide him the necessary cover from Drona. He sent away Satyaki to assist Arjuna and Krishna. Seeing Satyaki leave, Drona decided to give him a chase.

Satyaki’s progress through the Kaurava defence was steady, as he felled many princes on the way. He made Duscasana who attacked him, fly in fear. The Kaurava prince was stopped by Drona who put some courage into his heart and sent him back to face Satyaki. Satyaki was quick in disarming Duscasana who was rescued by his forces.

There was panic once again in Yudhishthira’s mind. Not knowing what was happening with Arjuna, Krishna and Satyaki, he now sent Bhima to find out. Bhima’s entry into the Kaurava formation was checked by Drona. Overcoming all opposition, Bhima broke into the formation. He soon sighted Arjuna, Krishna and Satyaki fighting with the Kauravas. He let out a huge roar, which Yudhishthira recognized as signal that all was well.

The strongest opposition that Bhima faced was from Karna. Karna was persistent, but Bhima dispossessed him of his chariot several times. Two of Duryodhana’s brothers who rushed to Karna’s help were promptly dispatched by Bhima to death. Karna finally fled the field, unable to face the Pandava. Five more sons of Dhritarashtra rushed to attack Bhima and all five lost their lives. This was followed by six more brothers of Duryodhana, all of whom were dispatched by Bhima to the next world.

Satyaki came under severe attack from King Somadatta’s son, Bhurisravas. In the fight when blows were exchanged freely by the two, Satyaki fell from his car. Bhurisravas jumped after him and placed a foot on his face. He drew his sword from his scabbard and was about to strike the fallen Vrishni hero when Krishna drew Arjuna’s attention to Satyaki’s predicament. Arjuna quickly sent an arrow, which cut off the hand holding the sword. Bhurisravas released his hold on Satyaki and stood with one arm severed.

After exchanging a few words with Arjuna, Bhurisravas sat down in prayer. Satyaki brought down his sword on Bhurisravas, cutting his head off. To attack a warrior who had laid down his arms and was praying, was strictly against the code of fairness in warfare. Questioned on his role in Bhurisravas’ killing, Arjuna said, “As long as someone belonging to us is in danger, it is my duty to save him if he is within the range of my arrow.”

The sun was racing down the western horizon to disappear behind the Asta hill. The Kauravas formed a very deep cordon around Jayadratha, making it impossible for Arjuna to approach him. Duryodhana was already proclaiming that Arjuna was dead. “According to his vow, if he is unable to slay Jayadratha before sunset, he would have to walk into the fire. With Arjuna gone, the rest of the Pandavas will be crushed by me. I can then rule the world,” he exulted.

Not knowing how to reach Jayadratha, a desperate Arjuna turned to Krishna. Krishna asked him to remain calm. He then created the illusion of darkness that is a sign of sundown. A loud roar was heard from the Kauravas who concluded that the sun had set. As they were jumping and dancing, Jayadratha, with a great sense of relief, emerged from his hiding. Krishna wheeled Arjuna close to the Sindhu king like a hunter approaching an animal.

As soon as they were within the range for Arjuna to mark his arrow on Jayadratha, Krishna said, “Wait. This Jayadratha is the son of the evil Vriddakshatra who is powerful due to severe penances. He gave his son the boon – ‘Whoever causes your head to fall on the ground while in battle, his head will crack into pieces.’

“Installing his son on the throne, Vriddakshatra retired to do penance. Right now he is just outside this battlefield, observing penance. Use your skill, Partha, so that your arrow would cause Jayadratha’s head to fall on his father’s lap.”

Arjuna aimed his bow and did exactly as his mentor bid. His arrow carried Jayadratha’s head and let it land on the lap of Vriddakshatra who was sitting in seclusion, deep in meditation. When the sire stood up after the penance, the head fell on the ground. Vriddakshatra’s head broke into pieces. He thus became a victim of his own boon.

Krishna then dispelled the illusion and the sun was seen once more just as its disc touched the Asta hill. Thus did Arjuna, with the help of Krishna, outwit the Kauravas, and fulfilled his vow of killing Jayadratha before sunset.

Satyaki who had lost his car while fighting Bhurisravas, was standing helpless. Karna was closing in on him. Observing this, Krishna blew his conch, signaling his car driver, Daruka, to bring his car to the fore. Satyaki mounted Krishna’s car and continued to fight.

In a departure from practice, the battle continued after sunset.

In the paleness of dusk, Duryodhana approached his Commander-in-chief, Drona, and expressed his grave concern over the loss of Bhagadatta and Jayadratha. He implied that Drona had not done his best to prevent Arjuna from entering the Kaurava formation and reaching Jayadratha. Drona wondered whether it was the Pandava’s arrows or Duryodhana’s words which were sharper.

Duryodhana next had a hurried meeting with Kripa, Karna and Aswatthama. Karna boasted of his own capability and his confidence to slay all the Pandavas. Kripa derided him. “Show your skill in battle and not in words,” he said. Karna abused the preceptor and warned that he would cut off Kripa’s tongue if he continued to praise the Pandavas. Aswatthama was furious with Karna for insulting his uncle. He drew his sword and tried to attack Karna. Kripa and Duryodhana restrained him.

Encountering Satyaki in the battlefield, Somadatta expressed his anger over the former’s killing of his son Bhurisravas. In the fight that ensued, Satyaki took the father’s life as well.

As the skies became darker, thousands of torches were lit up. Both the antagonists continued to fight as mangled bodies filled the battlefield. Karna was on the rampage. To check him, Arjuna sent Ghatotkacha. The fierce looking rakshasa sent the Kaurava army scampering as he approached Karna. The rakshasa force that followed him threw stones and trees on the opposing soldiers. Illusion and magic were freely used.

Alayudha, a rakshasa, approached Duryodhana and asked for permission to attack Bhimasena. The rakshasa was a kinsman of Baka, Kirmira and Hidimbva, All three had been killed by Bhima, and

Alayudha wanted revenge. Duryodhana gladly sent the rakshasa to fight Bhima. Leaving Karna for the moment, Ghatotkacha rushed to his father’s aid and killed Alayudha.

When Bhima’s son returned, Karna found the rakshasa’s combination of magic and warring ability a little too much for him. The Kaurava army was in tatters, looking as though it would never survive the Ghatotkacha onslaught. Unable to check him, Karna took out the weapon Indra had given him and used it on the rakshasa. The rakshasa was shattered to death. The coveted weapon that could be used only once, Karna’s only trump card against Arjuna, was spent.

The entire Pandava camp was steeped in sorrow at the loss of the beloved son of Bhima. But Krishna alone showed joy. He explained to Arjuna the reason for his happiness. “Karna was born with ear rings and armour capable of protecting him from any god or man. If he had them now, he would be unslayable by even you or me. He lost those defences to Indra. In return Indra equipped him with his weapon, which had the potential to kill you. But that weapon could be used only once. Now that has also been wasted on Ghatotkacha. Karna is no more a god. He is a man and could be killed by you. He is like an angry snake that has lost its venom.

“O Partha. The opportunity to kill Karna will soon come to you. When his chariot wheel is broken and he is on the ground trying to fix it, that would be the time for you to kill him. I would then make a sign with my hand.

“As regards Ghatotkacha, his death was inevitable. If Karna had not killed him, I would have had to kill him myself. He is guilty of the sin of brahmin slaughter.”

Meanwhile Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya a simple question. “My son and Karna knew that Indra’s weapon could kill Arjuna. Why then did Karna not use it on Arjuna on one of the many occasions the two confronted each other? Why was it used against a straw like Ghatotkacha?”

Sanjaya answered in one word, “Fate.” He must have recollected Bhishma’s advise to Duryodhana that Ghatotkacha should be tackled by a low ranking warrior.

The Pandavas were by now exhausted after hours of battling in the night. Arjuna called aloud, asking the troops to rest till the early rays of the sun dispelled darkness. The Kauravas also lay in the field and snatched some badly needed rest.

Duryodhana alone regretted that the Pandavas were not slain, as they lay exhausted. He had reason to be peeved. He had, that day, lost seventeen of his brothers and quite a few other generals.

Fighting resumed as the moon paled against the coppery rays of the rising sun.

Day 15 ofBattle – The prince of truth utters a lie

As the early morning sun bathed the glittering armour and chariots with its rays, the warriors got ready to fight. They picked up where they left off a few hours earlier. The clutter and dust reached a pitch when the warriors flung their weapons at one another as they entered the fifteenth day of battle.

The Pandavas were aware that their success depended on eliminating Drona. To that end they concentrated their energies. Drona was surrounded by a number of Pandava heroes. But the able brahmin treated them with ease. In the fracas, two prominent kings of the Pandava camp met their end. Those were the venerable Drupada and Virata, both falling to Drona’s arrows.

Thereafter, the antagonists were locked in a one-to-one fight. The preceptor and favourite pupil were soon facing each other. Drona and Arjuna traded all the weapons known to man and god. But each knew how to counter the other. They seemed to be equally matched. Those observing them felt that either there would be no result or both would perish.

Drona and Arjuna soon received support from their respective camps. Krishna told Arjuna to concentrate on the Kauravas surrounding Drona in order to make the preceptor vulnerable. When Arjuna left him, Drona turned on the Pandava forces, causing large damage to them.

Krishna told Arjuna, “Look at Drona assaulting our forces. He should be killed by any means. Let someone tell him that Aswatthama has been killed. In grief, he would lay down his bow.”

Krishna’s counsel was hotly debated upon by the Pandavas. Arjuna, in particular, was against uttering such a blatant falsehood. But he was eventually convinced. Yudhishthira, keen to stop the massive killing by Drona, agreed to the suggestion, a deeply painful action for the upholder of truth.

Bhimasena, by a mighty blow of his mace, killed an elephant, Aswatthama by name, belonging to Indravarman of the Pandava force. He then drove to Drona and cried out, “Aswatthama is dead. Lay down your arms.”

Drona at first disregarded Bhima’s words. But his mind was filled with doubt. He thought that the only person who would tell the truth was Yudhishthira. To him he went and asked, “Is Bhima telling the truth? Is Aswatthama really dead?” Urged by Krishna, the personification of truth confirmed, “Aswatthama the elephant is dead.” The words the elephant were said indistinctly, so that Drona could not hear him. Until then Yudhishthira’s chariot and horses were four inches above the ground. Now they dropped that height and were planted to the earth.

Unable to bear the news about his son’s death and exhausted by four days of continuous fighting, Drona dropped his bow. He sat on the platform of his chariot and closed his eyes in meditation. Drishtadyumna, to fulfill his destiny, veered his chariot towards Drona. He jumped out and got into Drona’s chariot. Catching the old man by his hair, the Panchala prince dragged him across. He then took his sword and with one stroke severed Drona’s head.

Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Drona’s soul gently floated to heaven. Only a few could see this phenomenon – Krishna, Yudhishthira and Sanjaya himself amongst them.

The Kaurava army, observing their leader killed, scattered in panic. Even Duryodhana was so frightened that he fled the scene.

Aswatthama who was fighting at a different place, observed the flight of the mighty Kaurava warriors. He approached Kripa and asked him what the reason was for the panic. Kripa described to him the fall of Drona in the hands of Drishtadyumna. Like an enraged lion, Aswatthama flung himself at the Pandavas, in rage over his father’s death.

The fury of Aswatthama was such that all the Pandava warriors, excepting Arjuna with his charioteer, Krishna, were running for their lives. A fierce battle took place between those two excellent disciples of Drona. Aswatthama used the most powerful weapons against Arjuna, but the latter countered him at every stage. Aswatthama then took out his most potent weapon, the Narayana.

As soon as Krishna saw the Narayana being used by Drona’s son, he shouted out to all the Pandava fighters to throw down their weapons. All of them obeyed, excepting Bhima who wanted to attack the celestial shaft. As Bhima defied it, the weapon became blazing hot and the entire atmosphere was lit up by its energy. Arjuna and Krishna ran to Bhima and forced him to disarm. The Narayana made a round and then fell down ineffectively. There was relief in all the three worlds, and a cool breeze set in.

Seeing the Pandava forces standing deprived of their arms, Duryodhana urged Aswatthama to use the Narayana again. Aswatthama said, “Alas, this weapon can be used only once. Once released, it should not be recalled. If it is recalled, it would kill the person who recalls it. It does not attack unarmed persons. Since the Pandavas have laid down their arms, it has not killed any of them. The all-knowing Krishna has made the weapon ineffective.”

Aswatthama continued to fight with the other weapons that he was carrying. When he used the Agneya weapon which his father had taught him, it spread fire over a vast area. But Arjuna quickly used the Brahma weapon to neutralize it.

Baffled by the ineffectiveness of his best weapons, the dispirited Aswatthama threw his bow and ran away. While running, he met Vyasa whom he asked, “Respected sage. Why have all my weapons failed me?”

Vyasa told Aswatthama, “Those you are fighting, Arjuna and Krishna, are Nara and Narayana, the ancient sages, older than the oldest of gods, who visit the earth in every Yuga to establish truth. They are

blessed by the greatest of gods, Mahadeva, and are unconquerable. Although you also have the aspect of Mahadeva, you should recognize that they are far superior to you.”

Arjuna who later met Vyasa asked, “While I was fighting Drona’s son, there was a shadow in front of me that was protecting me. Who was it?”

“It was none other than Mahadeva himself,” the sage answered.

CHAPTER 8

KARNA PARVA

Synopsis

Day 16 of Battle – Kauravas’ new general. Day 17 of Battle – The tragedy that was Karna.

Day 16 of Battle – Kauravas’ new general

After Drona’s death, the choice of leadership of the Kaurava army fell on Karna. Aswatthama proposed his name and Duryodhana heartily endorsed it. Such was his confidence in Karna that the Kaurava prince thought that with his friend’s appointment as Commander-in-chief, the war was already won.

Karna started in his new office with several disadvantages. Indra had deprived him of his ear-rings and armour, and without those, Karna had lost his invincibility. The weapon he had received from Indra in return carried the condition that it could be used only once. And once it had already been used on Ghatotkacha. His promise to Kunti stood in his way of killing the four Pandava brothers, other than Arjuna. The Kaurava army was depleted, with most of its frontline warriors dead. To be added to this list were two curses he had received.

One was from Parasurama, the son of the sage Jamadagni, who had vowed to destroy all Kshatriyas in revenge for their cruelty to his father. The Kshatriyas lived in fear of him, especially because there was none who could excel him in the use of the bow and arrow as well as the axe.

Karna and Arjuna were both disciples of Drona. When their training was over, they were asked to demonstrate their skills to Bhishma and the other elders. Arjuna refused to match his skill with Karna because of the latter’s inferior social status. It was then that Duryodhana made Karna the king of Anga. Karna vowed to excel Arjuna with the bow and approached Parasurama for lessons. Karna knew that Parasurama would reject him if he knew his antecedents. He therefore lied to Parasurama that he was a brahmin. The old warrior took Karna as his student.

Parasurama was very generous to Karna and he taught him several potent weapons. But the deadliest of them all was the Brahmastra.

During Karna’s stay with Parasurama, an incident took place which gave Karna away. Parasurama was one day reclining with his head on Karna’s lap, fast asleep. An insect, Indra in disguise, pierced the pupil’s lap. Even as blood flowed, Karna bore the pain of it, not wishing to disturb his teacher. When Parasurama woke up and noticed this, he asked Karna, “Tell me the truth about yourself. You cannot be a brahmin. Only a Kshatriya can bear such pain without moving an iota. Who are you?”

When Karna confessed to Parasurama that he was the son of a charioteer, the warrior-sage became furious at being deceived. He cursed that, when he needed it most, Karna would be unable to use the Brahmastra. He would forget the invocatory mantra.

On another occasion, while practicing with his bow Vijaya, Karna accidentally killed a calf belonging to a brahmin. The brahmin cursed him, “You killed my holy calf. For this you would be punished. When you are fighting a war, your chariot wheel would sink into the ground. You would be stranded and left at the mercy of your foe.”

But now during the Great War, Karna’s spirit was very high when he led his forces into the field. Adopting the Makara formation, he himself occupied the front position. The Pandavas adopted the half

moon formation to counter him. When the two armies met, it was like the clash of two huge clouds resulting in a reverberating thunder.

The day’s battle was marked by several fierce encounters. Satyaki routed the Kaikeyas and killed the two Avanti princes, Vinda and Anuvinda. Kshemadurthi of the Kulatas was killed by Bhima, while the Magadha king, Dandadhara, was killed by Arjuna. The Pandyan king, Malayadwaja, who had come all the way from the South to fight for the Pandavas, lost his life to Aswatthama after a spirited fight. In an encounter between Arjuna and Aswatthama, the latter had to seek refuge behind Karna.

Karna’s onslaught on the Pandava army was heavy. In a fight with Nakula, he disarmed the youngest of the Pandava brothers. But he spared the prince’s life due to his promise to Kunti not to kill any of the Pandava brothers, excepting Arjuna.

In a similar situation, Yudhishthira was in a position to kill Duryodhana but spared him. Duryodhana was marked by the Pandavas for Bhima to kill.

A whole range of weapons was used in the various engagements. Among the arms in use were bows and arrows, spiked clubs, swords, lances, axes, short clubs, darts, rapiers and battle-axes. Bhima’s bare hands were equally effective in dealing with the enemies.

Day 17 of Battle – The tragedy that was Karna

Early in the morning of the seventeenth day, Karna counseled with Duryodhana. The Commander-in-chief was still breathing confidence when he said, “I might have lost the weapon Indra gave me. But I still have the bow Vijaya, which is equal to the Gandiva. Vijaya was given to me by Parasurama who got it from his ancestor Bhirgu who himself received it from Indra. I vow that today I shall kill Arjuna or I would not return alive.”

Planning his strategy, Karna told Duryodhana that he needed the most competent charioteer to counter Arjuna who had Krishna to steer him. Karna chose the Madri king Salya for the purpose. The proud Salya refused, saying that he would not be charioteer to a person of low class. When Duryodhana flattered him by comparing him to Krishna, the king of the Madras agreed. But he laid down one condition. “I shall say anything I please at any time while fighting. Karna should not object to it.” Karna agreed

As Karna set out with Salya as his charioteer, he announced to his soldiers, “I have vowed to kill Arjuna today. Whoever points him out to me shall be rewarded with immense wealth.”

Salya felt offended by Karna’s words. He said, “I am your charioteer. I shall take you to Arjuna. Besides, you need not seek Arjuna. He shall seek you.”

Salya’s tirade against Karna had started. He continued, “You desire to fight someone you could never vanquish in battle. A hare cannot challenge a mighty elephant. A fox cannot overthrow lions. A tiger is not affected by a dog barking at him. Truth is like a rock and deceit cannot triumph over it.”

Karna was quick in returning the abuses. He said, “You are a coward and unfit to be a Kshatriya. You do not know my strength. You do not realize that I can slay all the Pandavas. You are a foe, pretending to be a friend. You Madrakas are a degenerate race. You are lustful and have no character. Each one of you is of doubtful parentage. The only reason I have not taken your life for your offensive words is because you are fighting for Duryodhana.”

Salya countered, “A crow cannot be a swan. That you are a coward has been proved by many instances in the past.” True to his word to Yudhishthira before the war commenced, Salya continued to rant, praising Arjuna and Krishna, while rebuking Karna. Karna found it hard to ignore him and concentrate on the fight.

In a direct encounter, Karna inflicted several wounds on the Pandava king who had to retreat to his tent. Arjuna and Krishna, when they heard of the injury to Yudhishthira, rushed to meet him. Yudhishthira rebuked Arjuna for abandoning the battlefield and coming back to the camp. “If you cannot use the Gandiva,” he said, “Give it to someone else.” A furious Arjuna was about to hit his brother with his sword, when Krishna intervened. The two brothers apologized to each other, and Arjuna returned to fight.

Several of Duryodhana’s brothers, including Duscasana, attacked Bhima. In the fight that followed, Duscasana lost his weapons and fell exhausted from his chariot. As he lay trembling on the ground, Bhima jumped down and, rushing to the Kaurava prince, struck him with his sword, severing his head. In

fulfillment of the vow he had made after the dice game, Bhima quaffed the blood of the slain brother of Duryodhana. Many including Duryodhana and Karna, watched the scene, terror written on their faces.

Following this, Bhima dispatched ten more brothers of Duryodhana to the other world.

The battle between Karna and Arjuna drew everybody’s attention. The gods, the rishis, the asuras and humans, all sensed that a great event was taking place. Indra prayed to Brahman for his son’s victory. Brahman told him, “This is a fight between the forces of the gods and those of the demons. Arjuna represents the gods and would surely win.”

Overawed by the clash of the two, Aswatthama appealed to Duryodhana to call off the war and make peace with the Pandavas. But Duryodhana was full of confidence that Karna will slay Arjuna.

Arjuna showered his arrows on the Kaurava forces, making them scatter. Soon Karna was standing alone and resisting Arjuna. Karna released a deadly snake-mouthed arrow on Arjuna. The arrow careered straight towards Arjuna’s head. Krishna quickly pressed Arjuna’s chariot into the earth. The arrow flew past Arjuna’s head, knocking off his headgear. It then returned to Karna, not finding its target.

Karna heard a voice, “See me well. Use the arrow again. This time Arjuna will not escape.” Karna asked, “Who are you?” The voice replied, “I am Aswasena, the snake in your arrow. You used me without seeing me. If you see me well and shoot me again I shall kill Arjuna. I have been wronged by Arjuna when he burned the Khandava forest and I desire to take my revenge.”

The proud Karna told the snake, “I never use the same arrow twice. Besides, I do not rely on another to slay my foe. I depend on my own strength. Go away.”

The snake attacked Arjuna on its own, in the form of an arrow. Without any effort, Arjuna felled it with several arrows. Krishna reminded Arjuna of the snake whose mother he had killed while destroying the Khandava forest. That snake was now trying to avenge his mother’s death.

Karna struggled. His shafts, aimed at Arjuna, failed to reach their target. He was himself peppered by Arjuna’s arrows.

He pulled out his Brahmastra. But try as he did, he failed to remember the chant needed to launch the supreme weapon. Now he found that the left wheel of his chariot was sinking into the ground. He jumped out of the chariot and tried to lift the wheel free. Unsuccessful in his attempt, he appealed to Arjuna to give him time. “It is but virtue that you should not attack a person who is in my state,” he said.

Krishna asked him, “Where was your virtue when you caused the Panchali princess to be brutalized after the dice game?”

Urged by Krishna, Arjuna closed in on his kill. He took out a deadly arrow, Anjalika, from his quiver and aimed it at Karna. The shaft flew straight and took Karna’s head. The mighty son of Surya, the pillar on which Duryodhana’s dreams were built, fell dead.

Karna’s fall left the remnants of the Kaurava forces in a state of shock. Duryodhana kept wailing, “O Karna.” But he quickly collected himself and rallied his forces that were flying in all directions. ”Wherever you run,” he told them, “the Pandavas will pursue you and kill you. It is therefore better to stay here and fight.”

Arjuna and Krishna returned to their camp to a tumultuous welcome. Yudhishthira was overjoyed at the fall of a powerful foe.

When Sanjaya conveyed the news of Karna’s death to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, they both fell down in a swoon.

After the day’s battle was over, the Kauravas shifted their camp to a spot two Yojanas away, to a beautiful tableland at the foot of the Himavat hills, on the banks of Saraswati River.

On the recommendation of Aswatthama, Duryodhana appointed Salya as his next Commander-in-chief.

CHAPTER 9

SALYA PARVA

Synopsis

Day 18 of Battle – The sun sets on the Great War. Duryodhana goes into hiding. I have nothing to fight for, says Duryodhana. A sudden-death offer from Yudhishthira. Duryodhana and Bhima, the final showdown. Duryodhana accuses Krishna. Aswatthama on the rampage

Day 18 of Battle – The sun sets on the Great War

In the daily briefing prior to embarking on the battle on the eighteenth day, Krishna counseled Yudhishthira to lead the attack and have as his personal target, Salya.

On the Kaurava side, it was decided that the entire army, or what was left of it, would fight in a closely-knit formation, presenting a solid front to the Pandavas.

Both sides entered the field with their forces much depleted after seventeen days of fierce fighting. Yet they continued to fight.

Salya showed high spirit in attacking the Pandavas. He had to be checked by Bhima who caused him to fall on the platform of his chariot. Kripa came in and rescued the beleaguered Commander. But the Madras king was soon back in action, causing heavy damage to the Pandava army. Bhima, Satyaki and several others closed in on him, greatly afflicting him.

The appointed hour of Salya’s death had however come. Yudhishthira came within range of firing at the brave king. He fixed a special arrow on his bow, an arrow made of gold with gems studded. After an invocatory hymn he released it at Salya. The shaft flew straight and pierced the Commander-in-chief on his broad chest. Salya fell on the ground dead.

Observing Salya fall, his deputies rushed to attack Yudhishthira. But they were also consumed by the Pandava chief’s arrows.

The immediate reaction to these events was that the Kaurava forces turned their backs and started to run in fear. Duryodhana and Sakuni kept their feet planted and resisted the Pandavas. The frightened soldiers drew courage from observing their king fight. They slowly started to return to the scene.

Of the hundred sons of Gandhari, only two were left, namely, Duryodhana and Sudarsana. Bhima had killed all the rest. But that number shrank to one, as Bhima took the life of Sudarsana.

Sahadeva and Arjuna were holding Sakuni and his forces. In the apportioning of their prey by the Pandavas, Sakuni was allotted to Sahadeva. With a shining, golden arrow, Sahadeva severed Sakuni’s head. The gambler had lasted till the last day of the war.

Duryodhana was now left alone in the field. All his generals, all his troops had been consumed by the Pandavas’ might. There were only three other survivors of the Kaurava forces, Kripa, Aswatthama and Kritavarman, the Bhoja king. They had already fled. All the eleven Akshauhinis of the Kauravas had been destroyed. The dazed Duryodhana staggered until he reached a lake, Dwaipayana.

Duryodhana goes into hiding

Sanjaya who was in the battlefield, was caught by Satyaki. The Vrishni chief was about to kill him when Vyasa appeared on the scene and ordered his release. On his way back, Sanjaya met the lonely Duryodhana who was incoherent. Sanjaya observed the fallen hero entering the lake where, through his powers of illusion, he made a space for himself at the bottom.

Further in his path, Sanjaya met the retreating trio of Kripa, Aswatthama and Kritavarman, to whom he passed on information about Duryodhana’s whereabouts.

The sun was racing to the west, to set on the great, eighteen-day war.

The Kaurava forces had been completely destroyed. Duryodhana was missing. Yuyutsu, the Vaisya son of Dhritarashtra, approached Yudhishthira and asked for permission to take the ladies belonging to the Kaurava Royal family who were camping with their husbands, to Hastinapura. Escorting the wailing women, he reached the city. Vidura who received them at the city gate remembered Draupadi’s action as she dragged herself out of Hastinapura fourteen years earlier, disgraced and humiliated.

Even as the light was fading, the Pandavas spread out in all directions, mounting a hunt for Duryodhana. Meanwhile, the three warriors, Kripa, Aswatthama and Kritavarman stealthily reached the lake where Duryodhana had taken refuge. They urged their king to come out of the lake. But the fallen king had no desire to do so.

While the three warriors were thus conversing with Duryodhana, a few hunters came to the lake to slake their thirst. Observing the scene there, they reported to the Pandavas that the Kaurava king was hiding in the lake. The hunters were amply rewarded for giving this intelligence.

Very soon the Pandavas with Krishna and other close associates reached the lake. Krishna caused Duryodhana to become visible. Yudhishthira rebuked his cousin for running away for his life and hiding in the water.

I have nothing to fight for, says Duryodhana

“I am here not to hide from you,” Duryodhana said. “I have lost everything in the battle, even my chariot and my horses. Being alone, without an army, I cannot fight you. I have taken refuge in this lake in order to rest. Moreover, I have no desire to fight for my kingdom anymore. You may take it and be happy.”

Yudhishthira said, “We have reduced you to this unenviable position in battle. We do not want your kingdom as a piece of charity. We would complete our conquest over you and take the kingdom. Respect Kshatriya rules and come out and fight.”

Duryodhana replied, “Without my troops I can only fight you individually. We have seen many beautiful encounters while fighting from our cars. We can now fight with our maces, on the ground. I am confident to take any one of you at a time.”

A sudden-death offer from Yudhishthira

Yudhishthira made a sporting offer. He told the Kaurava king, “We accept your challenge. If you are able to defeat any one of us in a combat, you may have your kingdom restored to you. This is more than what you did when so many of you surrounded Abhimanyu and killed the innocent prince.”

Krishna expressed his anxiety and chided Yudhishthira for making such an offer. He thought that none of the Pandavas was a match to Duryodhana in a fight with the mace, not even Bhima. While Bhima possessed might, Duryodhana possessed skill. In a straight fight, skill would always triumph.

Bhima talked with assurance to Vasudeva and it was decided that he would battle Duryodhana in a single-combat with the mace.

Duryodhana rose out of the water and the fierce battle between the Kaurava and Pandava princes was set to commence.

Duryodhana and Bhima, the final showdown

Just as the combat between Duryodhana and Bhima was about to commence, Balarama, Krishna’s brother, arrived at the scene after his forty-two days of pilgrimage. He was very sad at the events that had taken place during his absence, but was consoled to be back in time to witness his two favourite pupils in fight. He proposed that they all proceed to a holy spot of Kurukshetra called Samantapanchaka, where the fight could take place.

In the fierce fight that took place, both combatants seemed to be equally matched. But just as Krishna had warned, Duryodhana was slowly getting the upper hand.

Krishna told Arjuna, “In this battle, Bhima can never win if he fights fairly. Let him adopt deception and win. What you fought for and have already won is at stake. Even the gods sometime adopt deception in their fight against the asuras.

“After the dice game, Bhima swore that he would break Duryodhana’s thigh. Let him do it now.”

According to the rules of fighting with the mace, no blow should be dealt below the opponent’s navel. Arjuna slapped his thigh, indicating to Bhima what he should do. Bhima quickly understood the signal. Waiting for an opportune moment, he dealt a mighty blow to Duryodhana’s thighs. The Kaurava prince fell, his thighs broken by the impact.

With Duryodhana lying prostrate before him, Bhima placed his foot on the head of the fallen man. He cried in frenzy that he had avenged Duryodhana for his wrong doings in the manner he had sworn. Yudhishthira restrained him, reminding him that with all his faults, Duryodhana was a king and a kinsman.

Balarama who was furious at Bhima’s flagrant violation of the code, stepped forward to hit him with his plough, the weapon he was known to wield with effect. Krishna pulled him back and tried to justify to him Bhima’s action. Balarama was unconvinced. He mounted his chariot and left for Dwaraka in anger.

Duryodhana accuses Krishna

Duryodhana, completely disabled, raised the upper portion of his body and addressed Krishna. “You have been the cause of all the unfair practices pursued by the Pandavas in this war. Through Arjuna you signaled to Bhima to break the code and hit me on my thighs. You caused Sikhandin to be brought before Bhishma and that led the grandsire to his fall. You were responsible for Indra depriving Karna of his earrings and armour as also for the Anga king wasting the weapon Indra gave him. Drona and Bhurisravas were both killed when unarmed, due to your counsel. You frustrated us by making many of our weapons ineffective. This war has been won by you by unfair means.”

Krishna replied, “You have no claim to talk about the methods we adopted to baffle you. You have been responsible for innumerable crimes committed against the Pandavas. You tried to kill them by several means. You abused their queen, Panchali, in your court. You cheated them out of their kingdom through Sakuni’s dice play. You refused to yield to their just demand when they returned from their exile. You killed an innocent lad, Abhimanyu, in an unfair fight. You claim to be purified by your charity to

brahmins. But that is offset by your insolence towards your elders. It is because of these various crimes that you are now reduced to this. To defeat you, adopting any means was fair.”

Duryodhana said, “I do not regret my actions. I have enjoyed the earth as its monarch. I now die as a brave Kshatriya with my place in heaven assured.” When he spoke these words, flowers were showered over him from above by the Gandharvas and other celestial beings.

As they were returning to their tents, the Pandavas were pondering over Duryodhana’s words. Krishna lifted their spirits by pointing out to them that warriors like Bhishma, Drona and Karna were unassailable in the normal course. Without adopting the strategies that he had recommended, the Pandavas could not have won the war.

On reaching their camp, Krishna asked Arjuna to alight from the chariot Indra had given him. As soon as Arjuna complied, the ape in his banner disappeared. The chariot, with all the arms and weapons in it, went up in flames. Krishna explained to Arjuna, “As long as I was sitting in the chariot, nothing could harm it. It bore the brunt of all kinds of weapons. Now that I have left it, it is reduced to ashes.”

Krishna then proposed that, as an act of propitiation, they leave the camp and spend the night on the banks of River Oghavati. After they had moved to the sacred place, Krishna left for Hastinapura. He told Yuthishthira, “I shall go to Hastinapura and break the news of Duryodhana’s fall to the king and queen. This will soften them, especially Gandhari whose sons have all been killed. She is so pure that by an angry look she can burn anyone in front of her. Let her anger diminish before you call on her.”

Krishna’s mission was made easy by the presence of Vyasa in Hastinapura.

Meanwhile, Kripa, Aswatthama and Kritavarman, the sole survivors in the Kaurava camp, met Duryodhana who was lying in the battlefield, wounded and immobile. The three of them heard an account of the battle between their king and Bhima, and were incensed at the foul play that had taken place. They swore to take revenge on the Pandavas.

Duryodhana told Aswatthama, “The mantle of Commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army now falls on you.”