Ashramvasika Parva

          Fifteen years have passed after the epic Kurukshetra war. Yudhistra was ruling Hastinapur under the guidance of Dritharashtra and Vidhura. Gandhari and Kunti were the Rajamatha of Hastinapur. Equanimity prevailed under King Yudhistra’s rule. 

         

Though the days passed with discerning and working on the welfare of the people of Hastinapur and discussing about the same with Yudhistra, the nights were disturbing and sleepless for Dritharashtra. The thought that he was responsible for the war and for the death of his sons made him depressed and miserable. Gandhari's loneliness and silence killed her from inside, thinking of her son's fate and her inability. Making sure that Hastinapur is wealthy and that Yudhistra is ruling generously, Dhritarashtra decided to abdicate Hastinapur and pursue sanyasa and live the rest of his life among the woods. On hearing Dhritarashtra’s decision, Gandhari, Kunti, Vidhura and Sanjaya too decided to accompany him. Yudhistra pleaded Dhritarashtra to stay in Hastinapur but Sage Vyasa who was present in Hastinapur convinced Yudhistra to allow them to proceed with their decision for it will be the only thing that will bring peace to them.

          Arrangements were made to send off Dhritarashtra and his accompanies. Before leaving the palace, Dhritarashtra met Yudhistra and his brothers and gave advice on how to rule compassionately and also about the traditions of Kuru that’s been followed for generations. Before leaving the palace, in front of the people of Hastinapur, Dhritarashtra apologized for supporting his son and for not thinking about the welfare of the people and also for being responsible for the death of the men of the families in the war. Dhritarashtra accompanied by Gandhari and Vidhura donated food and money to the people in memory of Pithamaha Bhishma, Dronacharya and his sons. With a heavy heart, the Pandavas and the people of Hastinapur bid farewell to Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Kunti, Vidhura and Sanjaya.

          Tagging along with Sage Vyasa and his disciples, Dhritarashtra and his associates reached the banks of Bhagirathi where Satayapu, the former king of Kekeyas lives in his hermitage. Satayapu preached Dhritarashtra on how to live the life of sanyasa and to perform severe austerities. Dhritarashtra performed severe austerities to liberate himself from his sins of being selfish and for being responsible for the death of innocent men in the war. One year passed by and the Pandavas, accompanied by Draupathi, Subhadra, Uththara and Parikshit set out to the forest and visited the hermit of Satayapu where Dhritarashtra was living. In their reunion, Yudhistra and others noticed that Vidhura was missing.

          Worried, Yudhistra enquired, “Uncle Dhritarashtra, Where is uncle Vidhura? Is he not living with you all?”

          Listening to Yudhistra’s concerned voice, Dhritarashtra replied, “Son, Vidhura is not living with us. All his life Vidhura was always walking on the path of Dharma. The sages sometimes see him wandering alone deep inside the forest. Sometimes they say Vidhura was with the Brahmins doing penance. I have heard them saying that Vidhura has faded in health and he roams naked and is covered with dirt. He hardly utters a word to anyone.”

          They spent their time in the bank of river Bhagirathi. Yudhistra and others knew that Dhritarashtra and his associates will be moving to Himalayas sooner and so with a heavy heart, they left the elderlies of the Kuru dynasty. 

          Vidhura was the first to embrace moksha in Yogic trance. Two years have passed after reaching the hermitage of Satayapu. Dhritarashtra and Gandhari undertook severe austerities. Kunti and Sanjaya helped the old couple by assisting them in their daily activities. Dhritarashtra’s severe penance pleased the gods. Sage Naradha met Dhritarashtra and spoke, “Dhritarashtra! The gods are pleased on your penance. You are forgiven for your sins. Two more years and you all will leave this world with peace in your heart.

          Listening to Naradha’s words, Dhritarashtra was pleased. Satisfied, he conveyed his conversation with Sage Naradha to Gandhari. Accompanied by Gandhari, Kunti and Sanjaya, Dhritarashtra left for their final journey towards the Himalayas. While they were staying in Gangadhwara, Dhritarashtra, along with Gandhari and Kunti attained moksha while they were engulfed by the fire started from the ritual fire they were holding to. Sanjaya walked alone for the rest of his final journey and reached the upper Himalayas and lived there till he embraced death to reach heaven. 

          Two years have passed after visiting Dhritarashtra and his associates. Yudhistra was not aware of their death. Sage Naradha visited Hastinapur to convey the message and console the Pandavas.  The Pandavas were surprised on the unexpected visit of Sage Naradha. They welcomed him with respect. Yudhistra, with all due respect, spoke, “It’s been a long time since your last visit to Hastinapur. What can I do for you? Where have you been recently?”

          Sage Naradha spoke in a concerned voice, “Yudhistra! It’s been years since we have met. I was roving through various holy places in and around Ganga.”

          Listening to Sage Naradha speaking about Ganga, Yudhistra was impelled. “You were near river Ganga? Few of my known people informed me that Uncle Dhritarashtra was doing penance near River Ganga. Did you get to meet our mother, uncles and aunt? Did you see Uncle Vidhura with them? And also Uncle Sanjaya!”

          Sage Naradha was silent for a moment and replied, “Yudhistra, listen to me with a serene mind. Vidhura attained moksha when they were living in the hermitage of Satayapu. Your uncle Dhritarashtra, aunt Gandhari and mother Kunti was accompanied by Sanjaya for their journey towards the Himalayas. Your uncle and aunt did severe penance. Your mother took care of them. She assisted them in all their activities. Sanjaya too did severe austerities. All four of them did severe penance to please the god. While they were living in Gangadhwara, your uncle started living life just by breathing. Your aunt Gandhari lived only by consuming water. Your mother and Sanjaya ate only once in a month. I hope you all remember the ritual fire that your uncle was holding to from the day of his wedding. He carried the same fire to the forests and also worshiped it every day. One day, the winds blew strongly that the ritual fire that was left unattended engulfed the hermitage. Sanjaya tried to rescue your mother, uncle and aunt but they refused. They said that they would gladly accept the death for they know that this is their end and asked Sanjaya to continue without them. They went into yogic trance on the advice of Sanjaya to control their senses so that they would not feel the pain. Your mother along with your uncle and aunt embraced death and attained moksha when the fire consumed them. Sanjaya who was helpless and distressed described to the Brahmins he met about what happened to the King and the Queen and he walked towards the upper Himalayas with other sages and did penance there till he embraced death.”

          The Pandavas and Draupathi were all distressed on hearing the tragic end of their mother, the king and the queen. Engrossed in pain and sorrow on the death of their mother, uncles and aunt, Yudhistra cried, “How sad and troubled is human life! My mother, who is supposed to enjoy all the wealth and watch her sons ruling Hastinapur as a King, chose to go to forest and live her life like how we lived during the period of exile. With five sons alive, she met her end in this way, without any of us nearby. My uncle! He is… he is strong like iron and has the power of thousand elephants in his muscles even in his old age. My uncle was the ruler of Hastinapur, the king who ruled Hastinapur big-heartedly. He also died in a fire when he was supposed to live peacefully in the palace. And, my aunt Gandhari! She gave birth to hundred daring sons and yet she died helplessly. All of them are supposed to enjoy the winds of the Hastinapur from the palace garden and live their life among the people relishing the happiness of their citizens and their sons. I should not have let them leave the palace. I should have stopped them by all means possible.”

          Hearing to Yudhistra’s words, Sage Naradha consoled him and spoke in a concerned voice, “Yudhistra! They embraced death with open arms. The ritual fire that one worshiped every day should be the one used on their funeral pyre too. The funeral pyre of the person will be lit using the same fire. The fire started from the ritual fire that your uncle carried all through his life. Their funeral fire was the same fire he worshiped. This means that they have met natural death. Perform their last rites so that the souls can reach heaven with peace.”

          The news of the death of the old king and the queens spread all over Hastinapur and the people too grieved for the loss. Accompanied by Draupathi, Uththara, Subhadra, Yuyutsu and Parikshit, the Pandavas proceeded to the shores of River Ganga and performed the last rituals for the departed souls. Yuyutsu performed the last rites for his father. Then, they gave offerings to the Brahmins as a customary ritual and returned to Hastinapur after performing the ritual rites…hoping that the souls will find peace at least in heaven!

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 - Night 17

     Hearing the death of the mighty Karna, King Drithirashtra and Queen Gandhari were grief struck. Weeping for the death of Karna who was her only hope for Duryodhana to be alive and victorious, Queen Gandhari said unto her King– “O King, the final defender too has finally reached heaven, trying to protect your son. As predicted by the mighty Pithamaha, Dronacharya and Vidhura, our last and final hope too has dimmed. All those that you have heard so far is because of all the sins you and Duryodhana have done to the Pandavas. For our son, the mighty Karna has died opposing his brothers! Radhey and Adhiratha have raised a good son but look at the way, the King and Queen of great Hastinapur raised their sons! We are going to be insulted till the end of the world as the worst parents. We are also being responsible for the death of the high souled people like Pithamaha, Dronacharya and Karna.”

          Filled with fretfulness, Queen Gandhari fell unconscious. The daughter-in-laws of the King and the Queen, who were nearby, took her to her bed.     

      “Gandhari was always right, Vidhura. I ignored her words and warnings because of my ego. Now, for the same reason, I am losing all my sons. The death of undefeatable mighty Pithamaha, Drona and Karna is just the way destiny is working for the Pandavas to win. For dharma to win. My heart is really made of stone for it was able to foresee all this and yet it supported war. Also, even after hearing all their deaths, it’s still beating and hasn’t shattered into pieces. I remained silent when my son did all the evils and insults to the Pandavas and as a result, all I can do now is to remain silent, when my sons bear the fruits of their evil doings.”-  Crestfallen King spoke recalling all the harms they have done to the Sons of Pandu.

          With no words to console the King, Vidhura and Sanjaya stood looking at the King, whose aimless eyes were fixed on the night sky, engulfing the grief in his heart.

          Taking a deep breath, the King spoke – “Sanjaya, tell me what happened in both the camps after Karna’s death.”

          In the meantime, hearing about his friend’s death, Duryodhana came to the place where Karna rests, pierced by the golden shafts of Arjuna. Witnessing Duryodhana depressed, Arjuna and the other sons of Pandu were filled with joy. Arjuna was looking splendid with his Gandiva in his hands. Witnessing Karna lying dead, Yudhistra, relieved of his fear, felt like he was newly born. Bhīma was embracing Arjuna now and then, feeling proud on Arjuna’s achievement. Nakula and Sahadeva stood enjoying their victory against the Kauravas. Krishna…stood there in silence, not enjoying or participating with the Pandavas in celebrating but with his eyes fixed on Karna. Krishna’s tears rested in his eyes, waiting for Krishna’s permission to leave the eyes.

          “O Karna! Trying to save my life, you have given your life!! Where will anyone get a friend like me?! Arjuna, who considers himself as greatest archer has slain you only when you were unarmed? Consider that as a shame to him and as an example to prove your immeasurable mightiness, my friend. In fact, you are mightier and talented than Arjuna, my friend. You died proving that you are mighty. Without you, I have no interest on the throne. Without you, I have no hope to even fight anymore, O Karna. I am deprived of the ray of my life which is you Karna. You are my only refugee. What will I do now?” – cried Duryodhana.

          Though Arjuna was raged on hearing Duryodhana’s words, he did not speak a word, trying to grasp the truth in it. While the Pandavas were enjoying the moment beholding Duryodhana crying, the cry of a women in the battlefield moved their hearts. The voice seemed familiar to them. Confused, they looked at each other and looked at the direction from where the voice was approaching towards them.

          “O my dear Son!” – crying aloud from her heart, Kunti came running towards them, crossing all the slayed warriors and steeds in the battlefield.

          Baffled, Yudhistra grabbed his mother and spoke – “Mother, calm down. Arjuna is alive. Karna is only slain by our mighty Arjuna. There’s none who can defeat Arjuna.”

          “My son is dead! My son left me…My son is dead!”-crying out aloud, Kunti, removing herself from Yudhistra’s hands, fell on the ground holding Karna in her hands.

Kunti crying for her son Karna!

          Looking at Kunti, even Duryodhana was stunned, unable to understand what was happening, just like his cousin brothers, the Pandavas.

          “Mother! Karna is only slain. Your son, Arjuna is alive. I am right here! You must be confused.” – addressed Arjuna, trying to compose Kunti.

          “No…No… my son is lying dead! My son…Karna… the eldest of you five…my son, Karna…my son…!”- Tears and the burden of truth in her heart choked her words. Kunti, with teary eyes, explained the truth and her conversation with Karna before war.

          Shocked on hearing Kunti’s words, everyone stood wordless. Duryodhana, the first to regain his senses, looking at his friend with expressionless pale eyes wailed – “O Karna! You are son of Matha Kunti!?!? You fought against your brothers, for my sake!? For a friend, you stood against your family?! Just because I am your friend, just because, I had eyes on the throne, you remained silent and died fighting for me!? Karna… this war and devastation would not have happened if you had told me who you really are. I, myself, would have crowned you as the King! How will I ever be able to repay you? How will I be able to rule or even live? O friend!”

          Felt ashamed for not being aware of the heart of Karna, Duryodhana wept and ran away from the battlefield. Mortified on losing his brothers, his seniors and now his friend, all because of his greed for the throne, Duryodhana hid himself beneath the waters of Lake Dvaipayana.

          “Karna is our brother!! Mother, if Karna is our brother, he has the right to be the King. This whole war could have been averted if you had informed us about this. All because of you… all because of you...so many deaths, so many losses and pain in people’s hearts. Because of your silence, I started this war and the world will blame me for all these death! You are responsible for all this. I curse that no women in this world ever can hold a secret in her heart.”- filled with pain, Yudhistra cursed and cried looking at Karna.

          “Madhava! You know all this and yet you remained silent!? Now the burden and blame of killing my brother is on me!? How will I be able to save myself from this burden? Why have you done this to me?”- cried Arjuna.

          “You killed him!? Arjuna…do you think you are strong enough to slay Karna? You, individually, could have never defeated him. For saving your life, your father, Lord Indra beseeched the mighty protective armor from Karna. The one with which he was born. Then, your mother, Matha Kunti made Karna to swear that he should use the Nagastra only once at you and never against your brothers. A chariot rider cursed him that, when Karna’s mightiness is needed the most in the battlefield to protect him, his chariot’s wheel will plunge into earth. And most of all, Lord Parasuram cursed Karna that he will forget the mantras to invoke the celestial weapons. I pressed the chariot and protected you from the Nagastra. Thus, we all made the mighty Karna as a simple man on earth and not a warrior, so that you could kill him. The Karna you slew was not the mighty Karna known to all. The one you killed indeed was only the Karna who was deprived of his archery skills and incarcerated by fate. So, don’t think that you hold the blame and burden. None of you could have defeated him when he is the best in what he did. And here you are, like your brother,  afraid of the blame the world will talk about instead of your brother’s death and not knowing about the pain he and your mother was going through all these days!?” – said Krishna, sounding like thunder.

 Seeing Arjuna and others lowering their heads out of shame, Krishna, after a moment of silence, continued- “It’s all way of destiny, Arjuna. Dharma should be sustained on earth. For that, you have to be protected. It’s all fated. So, don’t take the burden to your heart and do what should be done. Prepare for the final sacraments of Karna. Give him a peaceful send off.”

          Listening to Krishna’s words, Yudhistra and his brothers carried out the final rituals of Karna. Arjuna cremated his brother Karna, expecting a peaceful after life for Karna. The Pandavas then proceeded to the camp for the preparations of next day’s war.

          Meanwhile, in Hastinapur, Queen Gandhari regained her conscious. She wept for being unable to save her sons. While everyone gathered were trying to console her, she reminisced Sage Vyasa and his words. Rising from her bed, she said to Sanjaya – “Sanjaya!  Send a message this instant to my son or my brother Saguni saying that I need to see Duryodhana before the sunrise.”

      When the King enquired about the need, the Queen explained, “I remembered Sage Vyasa’s words. He once told me that the life I live with my eyes blindfolded is also like a yogic life and so all my powers are in my eyes. With that power, I can even turn anyone to ashes or even give life. I am going to transfer that power to my son, as a protective shield. I can at least save one son of mine.”

         Cheered on hearing Gandhari’s words, the King sent message explaining the need for Duryodhana’s visit. Saguni, on receiving the message, asked Aswathama to look for Duryodhana. Aswathama and Saguni went looking for Duryodhana in places near to the camp. With the help of the informers, they reached the lake where Duryodhana was hiding.

          “Duryodhana! Friend! Come out of the lake this instant. We have a battle to win.”- roared Aswathama.

          “I have no battle to win. I have no interest to win. There’s nothing for me anymore to fight or win. I lost everything. I am an open target in front of the Pandavas. They can hit me or even slay me, anytime.” – replied Duryodhana from beneath the lake.

          “Duryodhana, think about Karna. He fought for you. He wished to see you as the King. You, as a friend, have to fulfill his wish. This is the right time to avenge the Pandavas. And you have the right armor this time.”- Cheering, Saguni explained about the message he received from Hastinapur. “So, get out of the waters and go see your mother before sunrise. We have a battle to win, this time, for sure.”

          Cheered in Saguni’s words, Duryodhana came out of the lake and rushed in his chariot to the palace of Hastinapur. Krishna, who was in his bivouac, came to know about this through his yogic powers.

          Duryodhana reached the palace and went to the chambers of his mother, Queen Gandhari.

          “Remember Duryodhana! While you are going to see your mother, you should be naked. Only then her powers will make your body parts turn into indestructible and imperishable. You don’t need a suit of armor anymore.” – Duryodhana remembered Saguni’s words and undressed himself before entering the chambers.

          While he was walking naked, a young beautiful woman came out of the chambers with her heads lowered, holding a bowl in her hands. The woman was none other than Krishna!! Seeing her and thinking that she’s maid, Duryodhana hid his hip part with the banana leaf nearby. After the woman has crossed, Duryodhana stopped in front of the chamber and thought, “What if there are more maids with mother? I cannot go naked in front of them! What to do now?!”

          Thinking for a minute, he came up with an idea - “Well, in wrestling and in Mace fight, the rule says that the person should not be attacked beneath the hip part. So, even if I get to fight with Bhīma, the one who vowed to kill me, he cannot attack me below my hip. So, I will be safe even if I hid my hip and legs.”

          Duryodhana then, hiding his hip unto his thigh with banana leaves, entered her mother’s chamber. Bowing in front of his mother, Duryodhana stood, waiting for her mother to remove the piece of cloth she used to blindfold her eyes. Gandhari, thinking that Duryodhana is naked, removed her blindfold. As she opened her eyes, her powers hit Duryodhana directly. All her powers were transferred to Duryodhana’s whole body, except the covered body parts. Seeking blessing from his mother and the King, Duryodhana left for the camp, with new spirit and verve.

          Meanwhile, King Balram reached the bivouac of Krishna, returning from his pilgrimage tour. He came to know about Krishna’s strategies in defeating the mighty Pithamaha, Dronacharya and Karna. He, through his yogic power, came to know about Krishna’s act in the Palace of Hastinapur.

          “Krishna! Don’t you feel that you are being partial to the Pandavas?” – asked King Balram.

        “Brother! It’s war. A war fought for dharma to be sustained. My strategies are not for vanquishing Duryodhana but to sustain dharma. And Duryodhana and his warriors are in its way.So, it affects them. You can’t call it as partial. I do pity for Duryodhana and his followers. I gave them the chance to choose, I also gave them the liberty to choose sides. What they face is because of the result of what they chose. I care for everyone but I take special care of those who surrender unto me, irrevocably. Call it partiality but they have surrendered to me and it’s my responsibility to take good care of them. The Pandavas surrendered to me and it’s my duty to protect them, no matter what. Especially for Draupathi. All this I do to redeem her honor is no match to her devotion and surrender to me, amidst all those mighty warriors and her husbands in the court room. I can never repay to that surrender and trust. That blind belief, hope and surrender is all I seek.”- replied Krishna.

        “I know, brother. But, all your strategies are favoring the Pandavas to win. You tricked Pithamaha, Dronacharya and Karna, those undefeatable mighty warriors. Though on an argument, you can say that their death is the result of the sins they did, why are you playing tricks on a mother’s love? Moreover, the Pandavas should win, for once, using their talents. All they do is only fighting while you take care of the strategies. I know that you don’t care being called as trickster in the battlefield but as your elder brother, on behalf of our parents, I expect my brother to be remembered for his generosity and not only for his political tactics. I would like to ask you this as a favor. For once, let the Pandavas gain their victory by themselves. Don’t play any tricks in the battlefield. With you by their side, I know that the Pandavas’ victory is assured. But for once, let them make steps to reach the fruit of victory. Else, the people will lose hope in the mightiness of hard work and skills. I ask this as a favor from my brother.” – said King Balram.

       Thinking for few moments, Krishna looked up at his brother and said, “For once, tomorrow, the Pandavas will do everything in the battlefield using their strategies to earn victory. I assure you that I will be only a charioteer tomorrow.”

          In the meantime, reaching the camp, Duryodhana tested the mightiness of his hands, shoulders, stomach and chest using different weapons. Feeling more energetic, Duryodhana roared- “The end of the Pandavas starts with tomorrow’s sunrise. I am invincible!!!”

          Saguni, Salya and Aswathama cheered for Duryodhana.

          “O King, you are going to be our line of defense tomorrow. Bhīma is going to die in your hands tomorrow, unable to accomplish his vow. The battle will end tomorrow because of your mightiness.”-cheered Aswathama.

          “O friend! You are right! I am waiting to see that mighty Bhīma in a combat. You take care of the rest of the army and I will deal with the Pandavas. Let’s slay our foes before sunset, tomorrow. Well, for tomorrow’s war, Aswathama, tell me whom shall we address as the generalissimo?”- asked Duryodhana.

          Aswathama replied instantly – “O King, make King Salya, the ruler of Madra as the commander of your army. His prowess, fame, battling strategies and skills are well known by every Kshatriya and non-Kshatriya. His art of war is unique and undeniably exceptional. None can match to his prowess when he is raged.”

          Accepting Aswathama’s words, Duryodhana turned towards King Salya and said-“Uncle, your time has come to lead my army towards victory. I am glad to have such an intelligent and skilled warrior as my generalissimo. I would like to offer you the commander-in-chief of my army. Kindly accept my offer and protect us.  Lead my forces to victory.”

Duryodhana..invincible!!!

          King Salya, the ruler of Madra answered – “Duryodhana! O King, I serve for you in this war and it’s my duty to accept your command. I will do everything that you ask me to accomplish in this battle. I will do everything I can to ensure your victory or die trying.”

          Hearing King Salya’s words, Duryodhana cheered and said – “O King, slay the foes in the battle tomorrow. With you as the leader of my army, the Pandavas and their friends are going to rush towards the gates of the heaven in no time. My victory tomorrow is certain.”

          “O King, I assure you that the world will tomorrow behold my prowess, my skills, my strength and the mightiness of my weapons.”- replied Salya.

          Duryodhana then addressed King Salya as the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army. The warriors roared in support and joy. Cheerful and energetic, they played various musical instruments. The warriors then, with a cheerful heart retired for the day, with new energy and power to battle and win.