Kurukshetra War - Night 18

          Rejoicing and cheering aloud, the victorious Pandavas returned to their camp where Draupathi and all others were waiting to join them for the celebration. Untethering their steeds, the warriors entered their bivouac to celebrate.

          Arjuna, on the advice of Krishna, descended from the chariot first with his Gandiva and inexhaustible quiver. As soon as Krishna dismounted the chariot and steeped back, the mighty ape in the banner disappeared and the celestial chariot, along with the steeds reduced into ashes in a wink. Witnessing the bizarre blaze and ashes, stunned and confused Arjuna enquired – “Krishna, from where the blazing fire came and why has the chariot turned into ash?”

          Smiling at Arjuna, with eyes on the ash, Krishna replied – “This chariot of yours has received attacks from diversified weapons from various warriors, including Pithamaha, Dronacharya, Karna, Bhagadatta and many foremost warriors. Only because I was on the chariot, though consumed by the force of the celestial weapons, the chariot remained unaffected. With me abandoning the reins for your objective has been accomplished, the chariot has reduced into ashes because of the power of the astras.”

          Turning towards the Sons of Pandu, Krishna said –“With the victory, the king and the queen should stay out of the bivouac tonight, for auspicious reason. Let us camp by the stream of river Oghavati and perform sacred yaga to free the souls from the sins caused by the battle and remain there for whole night.”

          With Krishna’s words, everyone returned to their respective tents and refreshed before leaving to the bank of River Oghavati for their night stay. King Yudhistra, afraid of Gandhari’s wrath on them while reaching Hastinapur, said unto Krishna – “Krishna, with the death of her sons, Mother Gandhari will be angry on us. And, knowing that Duryodhana has been vanquished unfairly, one look of her would kill us all. This victory has brought no peace to us. I am afraid of how to face Queen Gandhari and the King, after being responsible for the death of all their sons. Before we leave for Hastinapur, I would request you to visit Hastinapur and comfort her. Pacify her for she will be endured with pain, depression and anger. Except you, there is none who can understand a distressed heart.”

          Hearing the words of King Yudhistra, Krishna replied –“You all leave to the bank of the river while I will visit Hastinapur.” Summoning Daruka, Krishna made sure his chariot is preparedto visit the Palace of Hastinapur.

          While Krishna proceeded to Hastinapur, King Yudhistra, his brothers and Draupathi left for the bank of River Oghavati. Reaching the Palace gates of Hastinapur, Krishna descended from the chariot and entered the Palace. Knowing that Krishna is in the Palace, raged Gandhari rushed towards the corridor. Seeing Krishna walking towards her, Gandhari possessed of ascetic virtues, burnt Krishna with her rage and anger, through her blindfolded eyes. With her anger and scorching words of agony turning into fire, Gandhari began to burn Krishna with blazing flames.

          Krishna, standing serene and unaffected, received the wrath and pain of Gandhari. Moments later, with her wrath reduced, exhausted Gandhari fell on the floor and cried thinking she had killed Krishna, while the King, Vidhura and Adhiratha rushed to the corridor along with Kunti and Gandhari’s maids. Embracing Gandhari, Krishna spoke softly – “Fear not for you have placed your agony and anger in my heart. Destiny is supreme of all and none can question it. You know that this is the destined future of your sons. Do not set your heart in agony.”

        Gandhari, remembering her ill-fate and the death of her hundred sons, began to weep. Krishna, understanding the pain of Gandhari comforted her and the weeping King who cried for being responsible for the death of his own sons. Pacifying Gandhari, Krishna along with the King and the people assembled there went to the courtroom.

Meanwhile, hearing about the defeat of Duryodhana while the Pandava warriors looted the Kaurava camp, Aswathama, Krpacharya and Kritavarman rushed to the bank of the lake where Duryodhana was lying alone, with broken thigh and pain. Beholding the trio, Duryodhana, filled with happiness, said unto them –“Blessed I am to have you all by my side. My life has passed in happiness and wealth, surrounded by my friends, kin, family and well-wishers. As a true Kshatriya, I am dying in the battlefield and will be joining the foremost warriors, Karna, my son, my brothers and all those who fought by my side. Do convey to the King and to my mother that I am dying with peace and delighted to join my brothers and my son.”

Unable to tolerate the injustice done to his friend, filled with wrath, Aswathama addressed in voice filled with tear and anger – “Duryodhana, all they have done in this battle in the name of dharma are all unfair! They tricked my father and murdered him; they cheated to slay Pithamaha and behaved like spineless creatures when they killed Karna! And, ceasing not, they have now vanquished you, in an unfair manner. Grant me permission and I will slay every single soul left alive in the Pandava army. The victory will be yours!”

Meanwhile, in Hastinapur, Krishna said unto the King – “King, the Pandavas strived to prevent war but, out of greed and falling for the tricks of King Saguni, you and your son have led to the destruction of the Kshatriyas and your kin and friends. You know that this war is a result of your fault for you did not persuade Duryodhana from childhood to go in peace with the Pandavas. It is all but the effects of time. What else we can say? Knowing all this, I hope you have no hard feelings towards the sons of Pandu. Worrying about you and Gandhari, King Yudhistra is unable to attain peace. You know how truthful he was to you even when he was cheated. So were his brothers.”

          Turning towards Gandhari, he continued-“Matha Gandhari, you were aware of this in the past. You even warned Duryodhana. Knowing all this, I request you to have a steady heart to embrace the truth and the agony in it. Do not set your heart for the destruction of Draupathi or the Pandavas. You know of the rudeness Draupathi faced in the court.”

          Gandhari, with eyes on the ground, replied –“Krishna, I know this will happen. Where there is integrity, there is victory. As a mother who lost all her sons, I fell into the world of agony and my heart was filled with grief. With my anger reduced now, I can think clearly. Only the pain of loss is left in my heart.”

In the meantime, hearing the words of Aswathama, Krpacharya said –“Aswathama, hear to what I say. The battle is over. The sons of Pandu crushed our 11 Akshauhinis. We three are no match to them. They have Krishna by their side. Moreover, the night has set in. It is not fair to fight in the night. Let us retire to Hastinapur first. Let us discuss with the King and Vidhura and proceed with what they say. This war is theirs now. We have to get their orders.”

Raged on hearing the genuine words of Krpacharya, Aswathama replied –“Duryodhana has always been and will be my King. I take orders from him. Listen to the sounds of the Panchala warriors! They are cheering over a victory achieved unethically. I am not going to invite them for the battle. I am going to enter their camp and slay everyone while they are asleep. I am going to assault them along with their dream of seeing the tomorrow. Just like how they unfairly attained victory, same way, I am going to snatch it from them, for Duryodhana.”

Filled with regret, Krpacharya said –“Your heart is also set in reprisal, just like Duryodhana’s. Men are controlled by destiny and no force on this earth can change its course. As vowed to Duryodhana, before the battle, Kritavarman and I too shall join you in this vengeance act of yours.”

Aswathama roared in glee – “By tonight, the remnant Pandava warriors too will be annihilated!”

Delighted in hearing Aswathama’s words, Duryodhana said –“On a King’s command, a Brahmana can battle! Krpacharya, get me a pot of water from this lake! Make Aswathama as the generalissimo of the Kaurava army. Aswathama will get me the victory I desire. And also, the one I desire the most – ‘The death of the Pandavas’!”

Meanwhile, Krishna who was in Hastinapur came to know about the evil plan of Aswathama. Rising from his seat swiftly, he addressed the astounded King and everyone assembled –“I will take my leave. Aswathama has set up an evil plan to destroy the Pandavas deceitfully! I shall go and warn the Pandavas and stop Aswathama!”

“Hurry, Krishna! Go and save them before Aswathama does anything terrible!” – cautioned Vidhura and the King.

Gesturing in acceptance, Krishna rushed in his chariot to see the Pandavas. Meanwhile, Aswathama, Krpacharya and Kritavarman reached the gates of the Pandavas’ camp. Witnessing the warriors sleeping intrepidly, with Kritavarman and Krpacharya guarding the gate Aswathama breached into his foe’s camp and entered the bivouac of Dhrishtadyumna swiftly like a serpent. Standing near the bed of the generalissimo, Aswathama kicked him. Startled Dhrishtadyumna noticed Aswathama standing next to him with his wide open eyes. Aswathama pressed the throat of the Panchala Prince before he could shout or reach to his sword next to his bed.

Aswathama...all set to crush the Pandavas!

“You think you are a warrior just because you killed my father!? You cheated him, remember? For people like you, death should not come from weapons. It will make you die like a Kshatriya or a warrior.” –Saying so, Aswathama pressed his leg hard on the throat of the Panchala prince and assaulted him in the vital parts. The wives of Dhrishtadyumna rose from their bed on hearing the moaning of Dhrishtadyumna and witnessed the raged Aswathama slaying their husband.

Thus slaying Dhrishtadyumna, Aswathama proceeded to the next bivouac of the Panchala princes, ignoring the cries of the Panchala women. Hearing the wails of the wives of Dhrishtadyumna, the warriors rushed to the tent of their generalissimo with swords, but unarmored. Entering the next bivouac, he slew Prince Uttamauja who was asleep. Hearing the moaning of Uttamauja, Prince Yudhamanyu rushed against Aswathama with a mace in hand. Seizing the uplifted mace in his hand, Aswathama assaulted Yudhamanyu and slew him with his sword in a flash and slew the chariot warriors and Kshatriyas of the Panchala army. Though the camp is awake, they were unaware of who is attacking them and where he is. Unarmored and with their choice of weapons in hand, everyone rushed looking for the silent assailant.

Entering the camp of the Sons of Pandu, Aswathama witnessed the sons of Draupathi standing armed. Though his most expected Pandavas were not there, desirous of slaying the young princes, Aswathama struck Prathivindhya with his word in the abdomen. Pierced, the prince fell lifeless. Cutting off the hands of Sutasoma in a swing, Aswathama pressed his sword into the chest of the prince at which the prince too fell dead. Beheading the rushing Satanika, and hitting the forehead of Srutakarma with his sword’s handgrip, Aswathama slew those two warriors in a wink. Beheading the remnant Srutakirthi without taking any hit, Aswathama rushed against Sikandi and the Prabhadrakas who came rushing into the bivouac, with a desire of saving the princes.

Receiving the warriors with a smile, swinging the blood drenched sword of his, Aswathama rushed against Sikandi with rage. Pressing his sword into the abdomen of Sikandi, he detached it back from her abdomen with a twist. Sikandi fell lifeless. Smiling at the dead Panchala warrior, Aswathama then slew the remnant Panchala warriors. Exterminating the Panchala princes, the grandsons of King Drupada and the remnant Kshatriya warriors of the Panchala army with his sword, he rushed to his chariot. Ascending his chariot and with bow in his hand, Aswathama exterminated the followers of King Virata. Slaying every single warrior he is opposed, Aswathama consumed the remnant Pandava warriors like a blazing forest fire. Those who tried to flee from the wrath of Aswathama were slain by Kritavarman and Krpacharya at the gate. With the death of the last single soldier and warrior of the Pandavas and with no sign of the Sons of Pandu, they set fire to the bivouacs and returned to their King.

Beholding Aswathama tainted in blood, Duryodhana, with a cheered heart, enquired about the attack. With delight, holding his sword in his hand, Aswathama replied – “Look at my sword, Duryodhana! This sword is drenched with the blood of the Panchala princes and the Sons of Draupathi. All of them are slain! The Pandavas are now childless. Those five brothers have no reason to celebrate anymore! Victory is yours now. The moment they witness the way their sons lying lifeless, they will die out of pain.”

Gladdened on hearing the words of Aswathama, gathering all his energy, Duryodhana replied – “Aswathama, you achieved what Pithamaha, Karna and Dronacharya failed to accomplish.  I am delighted to hear about the death of Dhrishtadyumna and Sikandi. I thank you all for achieving this mighty feat, for my sake. May god fill your life with all the wealth and grace. Now, I can die peacefully. We all will get to meet again. Thank you for your efforts and support.”

Saying so, Duryodhana rested his head on the sand and became silent while Aswathama stood crying at his friend’s condition. Surrounded by the remnant three warriors of his army, Duryodhana breathed his last, with peace and delight.

Meanwhile, Dhrishtadyumna’s charioteer rushed to the banks of Oghavati and informed King Yudhistra and his brothers about the massacre in the Pandavas’ camp. Riding in their chariot, everyone returned to their camp with a heavy heart. Witnessing her sons lying dead, Draupathi fell on the ground and wept. King Yudhistra sat on the ground and with voice choked in sorrow, he uttered – “Duryodhana is victorious again! We got the whole world but yet, this battle is won by Duryodhana now! After slaying the foremost warriors of Kuru family, our friends, kin, brothers and well –wishers, in the end, we got vanquished!”

Weeping aloud, Draupathi addressed to her husbands – “My sons are dead as a result of the vengeance Duryodhana and Aswathama have on you five. If Aswathama is not punished for what he has done I will enter the pyre and reach heaven along with my sons!”

          Filled with wrath, Bhīma, on hearing the words of Draupathi, rushed to his chariot with his mace in hand. With Nakula driving the chariot, the brothers with their weapons in their hand, rushed looking for Aswathama.
           Aswathama, beholding the Pandavas rushing towards him, he, with the desire of slaying the five brothers, invoked the destructive Brahmasthira, commanding it to destroy the sons of Pandu. Stupefied at the act of Aswathama, the brothers stood terrified for they know that there is no Astra that can nullify Brahmasthra. Arjuna, with a desire of saving the lives on earth, including Aswathama, invoked the Brahmasthra, commanding it –“Let the Brahmasthra of mine neutralize the Brahmasthra of Aswathama’s.”

Brahmastras...forming to crush the world!

          Rushing in his chariot to the spot and witnessing the two Brahmasthira’s forming on the sky with an intention to scorch the world, Krishna shouted – “What have you both done? Arjuna, what is this foolish act of yours? How can a Brahmasthra be an answer for a Brahmasthra? Are you not aware that this world will not be able to handle the wrath of even one Brahmasthra? How can you invoke it?”

          On the words of Krishna, Arjuna quickly withdrew his Brahmasthra. With joined hands, he said – “Krishna, I invoked it only to neutralize Aswathama’s Astra. He slew our sons. All we have now is Abhimanyu’s child in the womb of Uttara. Aswathama’s Astra will definitely consume all of us.”

          Krishna intended to pacify Aswathama. Aswathama, with fear and rage responded – “The sons of Pandu deceived and cheated sinfully to win this battle. They cheated to slay Pithamaha, my father, Karna and above all, Duryodhana! I will not withdraw the Astra. This Astra is invoked for the destruction of the Pandavas and it will happen.”

          Since the Brahmasthra is born out of Lord Brahma’s energy, only a person with clean soul can withdraw it. Aswathama feared that the Brahmasthra might slay him if he withdraws it. Sensing the fear of Aswathama, Krishna replied – “Aswathama, do not engage in any sinful act. Withdraw the weapon and save yourself. The sons of Pandu will forgive you.”

      Meanwhile, distressed Sage Vyasa reached there. Failing to pacify Aswathama, he said –“Aswathama, give the gem in your head that prevents you from getting old and sick. The Pandavas will let you live.”

          Aswathama, taking Sage Vyasa’s words as a command, responded – “You want the sons of Pandu to live! I will let them live, for your words and for the sake of Hastinapur. But, the Brahmasthra will slay the child in the womb of Uttara. The Sons of Pandu too should enjoy the fruits of their sinful cheatings in the war. They should stand uprooted like how they did to Duryodhana. I command my Astra to slay the child of Abhimanyu.”

          Saying so, Aswathama removed the gem in his forehead and gave it to Sage Vyasa as the Astra penetrated the womb of Uttara. Arjuna with kneels on the ground, begged Krishna to save Utthara and the womb.

          Raged on the sinful act of Aswathama, Krishna yelled – “Aswathama, you sinfully souled one! You desired to slay even an unborn child! There is no forgiveness for those who slay a child. For your act of rashness, I curse you to wander on this earth without any companion. You immortal will long for death but death will never be at your doorstep until the end of this Yuga. Your body will be the abode of all the diseases and unable to be treated, you will carry them and roam in the forest, searching for death. Also, listen to these words of mine: Your Astra will slay the foetus. But, it will live again and will be called as Parikshit. He will be well versed in all the Vedas,     he will be an expert in handling diversified weapons and observing all Kshatriya duties, he will rule as a righteous King, in front of your eyes.”

          Aswathama cheerlessly proceeded to the forest after bowing to Sage Vyasa and Krishna. Rushing to the camp with the gem, Krishna and the sons of Pandu witnessed Princess Uttara lying unconscious, receiving the disastrous and brutal effects of Aswathama’s Brahmasthra.

          Krishna, standing next to the Princess, said – “If I have lived by following the Brahmana duties and never lied to anyone, by the power and purity of my soul, I request the son of Abhimanyu to be alive and be in full health. Let the kid be revived and live gloriously.”

          On the words of Krishna, Uttara regained her conscious. Turning to Draupathi, Bhīma gave the gem of Aswathama and explained everything, saying– “Aswathama is defeated. This gem is yours now. We set him free on the request of Sage Vyasa, Krishna and also for that he is a Brahmana.”

          Witnessing the Pandavas and Draupathi struck with grief, spiritually motivating them, Krishna addressed – “Do not dwell in the past. Consider it as the act of destiny and look at the present which is in your hands, waiting for a fresh start. The future’s welfare and happiness is in your spiritual strength and courage.”

          With the words of Krishna, Draupathi gave up her vow and the sun rose in the east, signifying a new start!

Kurukshetra War - Day 15

             As the sun was about to rise in the east, the warriors woke up from the battlefield and prepared for the day’s battle, after an exhausting night battle. Desire of victory after a humiliating loss in the past few days, frustrated and wrath filled Duryodhana said –“Though you battle for me, your heart desires for the victory of the Pandavas and your love for your favorite pupil, Arjuna is the reason why I am losing. If not for you and your plans to defend him, I definitely would have won the battle long time back. Divide the army into two, today. I, along with Karna, Duchadhana and Uncle Saguni and their legion will slay Arjuna in the battle while you and the rest of the army fight with the Pandava army.”

          Though angered on the offensive words of Duryodhana, on hearing the strategy of Duryodhana, laughing aloud, Drona said – “This old man is fighting for your sake and also, the whole army is fighting in the battle against their friends and family without any desire for life. Though my heart regrets for fighting against the Pandavas, I will fight for you, even if you doubt it. I am indebted to Hastinapur and I will keep my word till my last breath. You think I am favoring Arjuna!? You think you can slay Arjuna? He is undefeatable even by the Devas when he is holding his Gandiva. Now, he has got the almighty Krishna with him, leading him and defending him. Do you think you and your army can slay or even defeat him?” Pausing for a second to grab his breath, Drona continued – “You started this war! You are the very reason for all this enmity among the warriors and countries. You said you are a Kshatriya who is not afraid of battle! You have my blessings!  Go and battle against the undefeatable Arjuna and slay him! Which Kshatriya is there to vanquish Arjuna when the illustrious Krishna is there with him?”

          As the sun tinted the sky in red with his rays, the battle commenced once again, to paint the battlefield in red with the blood of the warriors. Observing the Kaurava division standing in two separate forms, on the advice of Krishna, Arjuna equipped to battle against Dronacharya. Arjuna’s shafts knocked the warriors from their horses and elephants.

          Understanding Krishna’s strategy, Drona, taking his legion away from Arjuna, proceeded to the northern side of the battlefield and engaged in annihilating the Chedis, the Panchalas, the Srinjayas, the Kaikeyas and the Matsyas while Duryodhana, Saguni and Duchadhana along with their platoon, under the defense of Karna rushed against Arjuna. Nakula, Sahadeva, Satyaki and Bhīma rushed to defend Arjuna.

Bhima defending Arjuna

          Nakula encountered Duryodhana. Though Nakula fought with his entire mightiness and energy, Duryodhana resisted him on every side with his pointy shafts and made Nakula turn back. Meanwhile, Sahadeva who was battling against Duchadhana beheaded Duchadhana’s charioteer and before Duchadhana could realize that the charioteer has been slain, Sahadeva slew the steeds. Wounded, crying in pain, the steeds ran, boring the chariot away from Sahadeva. King Bhurisravas’s father, King Somadatta was slain by Satyaki in a battle while he was engaged in defending Duryodhana.

          In his encounter with the Panchalas, the invincible Dronacharya slew the three grandsons of King Drupada. Witnessing his grandsons lying dead, King Drupada, defended by King Virata rushed against Drona. With briskness, Dronacharya responded to the shafts of his friend and King Virata. Witnessing the Kings fighting with impatience and rage, clear minded Dronacharya, with a couple of well-aimed broad headed darts, slew King Virata and King Drupada. Beholding his father slain, Prince Dhrishtadyumna rushed against Dronacharya, filled with pain and rage, vowing –“I will kill the mighty Dronacharya today. If I don’t succeed, I will lose my Kshatriya life and rights.”

          Desire of protecting their unconquerable generalissimo, Duryodhana, his brothers and Karna rushed in defense. Prince Dhrishtadyumna along with Bhīma and the Panchala warriors rushed against Dronacharya from one side as Arjuna along with his legion, rushed from another. Bhīma penetrated into the array formed for Dronacharya’s defense and slew every single warrior he engaged with. Taking the path created by Bhīma, Prince Dhrishtadyumna engaged in a fierce battle against Drona.

          Karna’s shafts resisted Bhīma from proceeding forward. Struck by Karna’s darts, Bhīma lost his chariot and his charioteer fell unconscious. Witnessing Karna slaying the steeds too, Bhīma swiftly jumped from his grounded chariot and ascended Nakula’s chariot and Nakula bore him away from the sight of Karna. Meanwhile, undefended Dhrishtadyumna was resisted by Duchadhana. Raged Panchala Prince covered Duchadhana with his pointy darts and witnessing Duchadhana unable to face the prowess of Dhrishtadyumna, Kritavarman came in defense. Nakula and Sahadeva engaged with Kritavarman and unconstrained Dhrishtadyumna proceeded towards Dronacharya.

Arjuna against Dronacharya!

          Arjuna engaged with Dronacharya from one side and Dhrishtadyumna joined the battle from other side. Excited and enthralled in witnessing the prowess of Arjuna, gladdened Dronacharya invoked mighty celestial astras. Counteracting every single celestial Astra invoked by Dronacharya in the most apt way, Arjuna stupefied the eyes of the warriors and foes near him. Dronacharya, though struggling, cheerfully resisted both Arjuna and Dhrishtadyumna and engaged in slaying the mighty Pandava soldiers. As Dhrishtadyumna and the Panchala warriors engaged with Dronacharya in a fierce battle, Arjuna engaged in resisting the Kauravas from reaching the Panchala warriors and Dronacharya.

          Duryodhana, who was desirous of rescuing Dronacharya, was resisted by the courageous Satyaki. Both of them pierced each other with their shafts. Raged on Duryodhana as he broke his bow, Satyaki, with a pointy dart, broke the bow of Duryodhana into pieces and showered darts unceasingly. Unable to respond to the shafts of Satyaki, deeply pierced Duryodhana sat on his chariot and witnessing his friend in trouble, Karna rushed in defense.

          Bhīma, engaged in defending the Panchala warriors, slaughtered the mighty King Bahlika, Father of King Somadatta. Witnessing Dronacharya crushing the Panchala warriors, the Pandavas became hopeless of their victory. Concluding that none can slay the fearsome Dronacharya, the sons of Pandu stood clueless.

          Seeing the silence in the sons of Pandu, Krishna said– “Arjuna, the illustrious Dronacharya is undefeatable by humans and by the Devas. We have to adopt some strategy to vanquish him. He will cease his battle when Aswathama is slain, I hope.”

     “But Krishna, Aswathama is invincible. He is fierce and stronger than Dronacharya.” –responded Arjuna in depressed voice.

          “Let’s tell him that Aswathama has been slain. He is battling on the other end of the battlefield.”-Hearing the words of Krishna, Arjuna and King Yudhistra immediately disagreed to enact it. “You want us to lie to our Guru so that we can win this battle! I would not prefer such a victory and throne and I will never lie.” – replied King Yudhistra.

          “Yudhistra, this battle is not for you or for throne but for dharma. A lie or trick that favors dharma is to be considered as dharma only. It will not be a sin. Telling something untrue to save a life is not a sin.”- Krishna tried to pacify Yudhistra and Arjuna. Bhīma, Nakula and Sahadeva too approved for the plan and pacified their brother to accept. King Yudhistra accepted reluctantly–“I accept to your words Krishna. But I will never lie. That is against dharma.”

          Hearing the words of Yudhistra, Krishna thought for a moment and turning towards Bhīma, he said – “Bhīma, you slay an elephant named Aswathama. That way, your brother can say the truth.”

      

Bhima slaying Aswathama, the elephant!

         On the advice of Krishna, Bhīma slaughtered with his mace, the elephant named Aswathama which belongs to Malava King Indravarman who was battling for the Pandavas. Approaching Dronacharya, Bhīma shouted – “Aswathama has been slain by me!”

       On hearing the words of Bhīma, Dronacharya ceased his battle. Beholding Bhīma and the sons of Pandu and recalling the mightiness of Aswathama and his boon, Drona smiled at Bhīma saying –“Bhīma, You cannot singly slay Aswathama. My son is invincible! Even Arjuna will not be able to slay him!”

        Saying so and turning towards the Panchala warriors, Dronacharya invoked the Brahmadanda astra. The mighty astra showering darts at the Panchala warriors instantly slew five hundred Matsyas, six thousand elephant warriors along with their mahouts and elephants and ten thousand Cavaliers along with their steeds. Ceasing not, with his pointy darts, he slew twenty thousand Panchala chariot warriors and beheaded Vasudana. 

          Krishna, desirous of the welfare of the invincible Dronacharya, on witnessing the rage of Drona, addressed – “Dronacharya, you are a Brahman. Well versed in Vedas and the truth in it. Do not fight in an unrighteous manner. Do not burden your shoulders with more sins and do not commit such sinful acts anymore.”

          Dronacharya, enlightened on the words of Krishna, with a depressing heart, turning towards Yudhistra asked – “Yudhistra, you are my only disciple whose words I trust all the time. You never speak anything that is untrue. Tell me, is Aswathama killed by Bhīma?”

          Recollecting Krishna’s words and quivering in heart at the inevitability of destiny, King Yudhistra made up his mind and said aloud- “Aswathama is slain by Bhīma!” Ceasing not, he lowered his head and in an inaudible voice he continued – “Aswathama is an elephant.”-Which even his charioteer was unable to hear as Krishna blew his conch.

          Trusting King Yudhistra’s words, Dronacharya, filled with grief casted a weary look at the Sons of Pandu and Dhrishtadyumna. Looking at Krishna who was staring at him with all kindness, Dronacharya thought that his hour to support dharma has arrived. Beholding Dhrishtadyumna who was rushing at him with rage, Dronacharya showered shafts at him and cut off the bow and standard of Dhrishtadyumna and slew the charioteer. Desire of giving up his life by battling fairly, for one last time, he showered darts at the Panchala warriors from his mighty bow. His darts consumed the life of 24,000 Kshatriyas and approximately one lakh Panchala chariot warriors.

          Laying aside his mighty celestial bow and bowing to all his weapons in the chariot, glancing at the Kauravas, he said – “Karna, with no desire, you fight in this battle. Defend Duryodhana. Duryodhana, Krpacharya and the entire Kaurava army, battle with desire for heaven. I have laid aside my weapons. Defend your friends and King, O warriors!”

          Smiling at the Sons of Pandu, he said – “Fear not my dear sons! You have surrendered to Krishna, the almighty. What you have done and what you are about to do is all for dharma to prevail on this earth. Proceed with cheered heart and trust the words of Krishna.”

        

Dronacharya!

       Bowing at Krishna with joined palms, Dronacharya descended from his chariot and sat on the ground in yogic stance, devoted himself to Lord Vishnu. Not battling, Arjuna and his brothers stood with tear filled eyes. Beholding them, the Pandava warriors of their platoon too ceased battling and so the Kauravas too stood serene. As the warriors around Dronacharya stood in distress, fixing his heart on the almighty Lord Vishnu the mighty soul of Dronacharya left his body and Dronacharya joined the company of the foremost Rishis and souls. None in the battlefield witnessed the soul of Dronacharya repairing to the regions of Lord, except Krishna. Beholding the lifeless body of Dronacharya, raged Dhrishtadyumna rushing with a sword in his hand and gathering all his energy, with a single swing, he beheaded the mighty invincible, highly souled warrior Dronacharya, not considering the words and pleading of Arjuna and his brothers. Dhrishtadyumna shouted out of happiness and witnessing him and the beheaded Dronacharya, the Kaurava warriors fled in all directions. Even the mighty Uluka and Vrishasena fled in fear, leaving their platoon.

    

Arjuna raged on Drishtadyumna!

    Arjuna, raged on Dhrishtadyumna, yelled at him for such an unmannerly and rude battling. While Krishna and King Yudhistra engaged in stopping the fight between Arjuna and Dhrishtadyumna, Aswathama, who was battling on the other side of the array rushed to the spot unaware of his father’s death. Slaughtering the Pandava warriors who were attacking the fleeing Kaurava warriors, Aswathama proceeded towards Duryodhana who was standing on his chariot, not trying to gather the fleeing warriors.

          “Duryodhana, what happened? Why are you in tears? Why is the army fleeing and why are you not stopping them?” – enquired Aswathama.

Grief and tear struck Duryodhana uttered Aswathama about the death of Dronacharya, the trick played by the sons of Pandu and the cruel act of Dhrishtadyumna. Enraged on his father’s death, Aswathama, wiping his tears, addressed – “You cruel hearted and vile Pandavas! Is this how you honor your Guru to whom you were the world? Arjuna, my father loved you more than me and he trusted you than any of us! Is this how you respond to an old man for his blinded love and trust? I will forgive none of you. I will slay you all today and end this battle, right now!!”

Narayanastra!

Saying so, Aswathama invoked the fatal and destructive Narayanastra against the Pandava army. Hearing the sound of the astra which emerged dividing the sky with a loud thunder and forceful wind, the Kauravas rushed back to the battlefield with delight while the Pandavas stood terrified and stupefied. As the sky opened, numerous pointy fire breathing darts emerged from the sky and darkness set in as the result of the darts blocking the sky and the sun. The Pandavas stood deprived of senses.

Arjuna, beholding the astra, said –“Aswathama has invoked the Narayanastra. This weapon will even kill the immortal. There is no neutralizing weapon for this. By killing Dronacharya, we have invited our death from the hands of Aswathama!”

Terrified Yudhistra commanded his generals and soldiers – “Everybody, run and save your lives. Cease battling. Let Duryodhana be crowned as the King. For being dishonest to Dronacharya, I will accept this death.”

Krishna, on witnessing the fast approaching Narayanastra, addressed –“Everyone, lay down your weapons and lie on the ground, now! Descend from your chariots and steeds and elephants. This astra will not hurt or slay anyone who stands unarmed. Even if you run away of even hide deep beneath the earth, this weapon will destroy you, definitely. Lie on the ground holding no weapons!”

Saying so, Krishna alighted from his chariot and lied down on the ground along with Arjuna and witnessing the act of those two mighty invincible souls, the soldiers of the Pandava army dropped their weapons and fell on the ground with the desire for living.

Indiscreet Bhīma, beholding everyone lying on the ground, spoke with rage – “Fear not warriors! Take your weapons and rush against the Kauravas! I will face Aswathama and witness the power of my mighty mace and my prowess. No celestial weapons can slay me!”

Saying so, Bhīma, with his mace in hand, rushed against Aswathama, ignoring the warnings of Arjuna and Krishna. With every single Pandava warrior lying on the ground without weapons, the exceedingly powerful Narayanastra turned towards Bhīma and began to shower its mightiness and energy forcefully at him. Beholding Bhīma struggling with the blazing flame and the viciousness of the astra, Arjuna, like lightning, picked his Gandiva and invoked the Varunaastra at Bhīma and basked on the ground immediately. The Varunaastra pacified Bhīma who was covered in the flaming darts of the Narayanastra.

Witnessing the Narayanastra intensifying its power on Bhīma, Arjuna and Krishna ran towards Bhīma and dragged Bhīma from the dense forest of darts and made him lie on the ground, losing hold on is mighty mace. With every single foe of Aswathama lying on the ground without weapons, the mighty Narayanastra pacified. Cheered on being alive, the soldiers roared in happiness and rushed towards the Kauravas picking their weapons and mounting on their animal.

Raged on seeing everyone alive, Duryodhana said – “Aswathama, invoke the weapon against the Pandavas again.”

Sighing heavily, Aswathama responded – “Duryodhana, it can be used only once.”

Beholding the Pandavas rushing with cheered heart, Duryodhana roared – “Then let us crush them with our own weapons and darts!”

          On hearing the words of Duryodhana, the Kaurava warriors rushed against their foes with rage and desire of victory. Aswathama, raged on the death of his father, engaged in a fierce battle with Dhrishtadyumna and repeatedly pierced him with his golden winged darts. Beholding Aswathama slaying the charioteer and steeds of Dhrishtadyumna, Satyaki rushed for rescue. Slaying the steeds of Aswathama, Satyaki pierced Aswathama in the chest. Slaying then the charioteer and with a desire of slaying Aswathama, Satyaki showered darts at his foe and turned the chariot into pieces, not before showering darts at Duryodhana, Karna, Vrishasena and Krpacharya, who came to defend Aswathama.

In the fierce battle against the Kauravas, Satyaki slew 3000 chariot warriors of Vrishasena’s platoon, 15,000 elephant warriors of Krpacharya and 50,000 cavalries of Saguni. Meanwhile, Bhīma, Chedi Prince and Malava King Sudharsana surrounded Aswathama, with a desire of rescuing Dhrishtadyumna.

Raged, Aswathama with a single pointy dart beheaded Sudharsana and with a gold winged dart, he beheaded Puru King Vrihatkshatra and with broad headed darts, he slew the Chedi Prince. Beholding Aswathama’s prowess, on the command of Krishna, Arjuna showered darts at Aswathama. Filled with wrath, on seeing Arjuna, Aswathama invoked the invincible Agneya astra. As a result, numerous fire breathing darts fell from the sky and burnt the Pandava soldiers alive. Turning the warriors, steeds, elephants and even the golden chariots into ashes, the mighty astra crushed a full Akshauhini of the Pandavas. Though it caused a devastating destruction, the weapon did not affect Arjuna and Krishna.  Arjuna, invoking the Brahma weapon, pacified the Agneya astra and mild chill breeze blew and filled the air with pleasantness.

Beholding Arjuna and Krishna standing unaffected, Aswathama threw his bow on his chariot and ran away from the battlefield, filled with doubts, pain and grief. The running Aswathama was stopped by Sage Vyasa.

Filled with questions and pain, Aswathama, with teary eyes asked – “Vyasa Maharishi! I am filled with doubts and pain. Why is it, my astras are futile when aimed at Arjuna and Krishna?”

 Sage Vyasa enlightening Aswathama!

Sage Vyasa, beholding the perplexed Aswathama, said – “Aswathama, Lord Narayana is the supreme soul from whom every single mortal soul and weapon appeared. He is the creator, defender and infinitely powerful. Against him, every powerful human or godly weapon will be ineffective. Krishna, the charioteer is that supreme soul! Defended by him, Arjuna is alive, unaffected by any of the weapons aimed at him.”

Enlightened on the words of Sage Vyasa, bringing his senses under his control, he bowed to the sage and rushed back to the battlefield. Beholding Duryodhana, who was ready for a night battle, Aswathama, with the sunset, commanded the Kaurava warriors to withdraw from the battle. As the Kaurava warriors withdraw after a miserable day’s battle, Arjuna and Krishna too commanded the Pandavas to retire to their camp and with that, the battle for the day ended, assuring victory for the Pandavas.