End of Nikumbha!

         Once upon a time, there lived a demon named Nikumbha. He was strong and ferocious that even the devas were scared to stand against him. Nikumbha, the vicious demon had the greed of living a long life. He did not wish to die. He was so greedy that he wished to rule all the worlds and be a king, forever. So he did penance facing North, where the abode of mountains, Kailash is. Worried devas tried to disturb his penance but none worked. Nikumbha was so firm on his stand and was doing penance expecting Lord Shiva, for hundreds of thousand years.

Lord Shiva and Nikumbha!

         Pleased on Nikumbha’s devotion, Lord Shiva appeared in front of Nikumbha and said, “Nikumbha! I’m so satisfied on such devotion from you. Ask me for any boon.”

        Nikumbha was so excited and he asked for the wish of living forever. “Nikumbha, every life that’s born on this earth should die. That’s nature’s way. I can’t grant a boon against nature and life.”- Lord Shiva replied with serenity.

         Worried Nikumbha had a thought for few moments – “Oh Lord, if that’s nature’s way then I want a boon where my soul will have three forms. Three forms which cannot be killed even by Devas, Demons and the Demigods or even by humans, by using any weapons that’s made by them.”

         Lord Shiva observed at Nikumbha deep through his eyes. He smiled and said- “Nikumbha, Your boon will be granted. But remember, if you do anything that’s not liked by sages or Brahmins, you will be killed. I and Lord Vishnu are the last refugees of sages, saints and Brahmins. So if you do anything that we don’t like, you will be killed by Lord Vishnu.” Thus, warning Nikumbha, Lord Shiva vanished.

         Nikumbha made sure that he should not die. Even by Krishna. So he hid the form that’s with the soul in Shatpura.  Shatpura is a city of demons ruled by Nikumbha’s brother, Vajranabha. Vajranabha has got a boon from Shiva that nobody can enter Shatpura. Even the gods could not enter. So Nikumbha was happy and sure that he cannot be killed. Another was taking care of diti with penance.

Dwaraka City!

         Years went on. Lord Vishnu, incarnated as Lord Krishna was ruling the splendid Dwaraka city. Nikumbha was so proud of his boon and his three forms. So he was assaulting devas and demons too. His cruelty grew within him every time when he defeated a Demi God or Devas. Same way he even defeated Lord Indra. He even forgot about Lord Shiva's warning. One day, the Yadavas of Dwaraka, along with Krishna and Balram  undertook a pilgrimage to the sea in order to celebrate a great joyous festival there. As festival was going on, Lord Krishna has invited the Pandavas and Draupathi too. Krishna with his sixteen thousand wives, Balram with his only wife Revati, and youths of the Yadavas with thousands of courtesans gave themselves up to playing and singing, feasting and drinking, and all kinds of enjoyments in the water and on the sea-shore. 

   

      The demon Nikumbha saw Banumathi who was playing with her friends on the sea shore and fell for her beauty. He took the form of a large bird and abducted her. Bhanumati is the granddaughter of Lord Krishna and the daughter of the Yadava, Bhanu. On hearing the distress call from Bhanumathi’s friends and Banumathi crying for help everyone looked up and saw a huge bird carrying her away. Krishna and everyone started firing arrows and throwing swords and stones on Nikumbha. But nothing stopped Nikumbha. Even Arjuna’s arrows were not able to stop Nikumbha. 

Nikumbha abducts Bhanumati!

         "Brother, You and the rest of the Pandavas leave to Dwaraka with our Yadavas. Protect the women and children. I, along with Pradyumna and Arjuna will go and rescue Bhanumathi."-Requesting Balram to take care of the clan, Krishna accompanied by Arjuna and Pradyumna, left looking for Nikumbha.

         Arjuna and Pradyumna were firing arrows fiercely at Nikumbha. Nikumbha is much more powerful than Gatothkach, the son of Bhīma. He was opposing them nonchalantly swirling his heavy mace that’s with many thorns in his right hand and holding Banumathi in his left hand. Arjuna never stopped firing arrows. Best archer ever on this earth but as his arrows failed to pierce or even make an impression on Nikumbha’s body, Arjuna got fury and confused. He and Pradyumna thought of using celestial weapons on Nikumbha but as the effect of the weapon will harm Banumathi, they were helpless.

         “Oh you naive people, I’m fed up with you all. You people are no match to my talent and strength. You people can’t stop me from taking this beautiful lady away.”- Nikumbha laughed at all and he used his illusory power and started flying to the city of Shatpura taking the form of Haritha bird. Pradyumna, who is an expert in illusory power, sensed that Nikumbha has left the place. “Nikumbha is not here. He is flying towards north. I wonder where he is going. We can out run him with Garuda.”- Pradyumna said in an assured tone.

        “No Pradyumna. It seems like Nikumbha is trying to reach Shatpura. If he reaches Shatpura, we cannot kill him. None can enter the city. Not even me. We have to save Banumathi before he enters the city.”- Saying so Krishna started to think of a plan.

         “Before entering Shatpura, Nikumbha has to cross the Gokarna Mountain. It’s protected by the splendor of Lord Shiva. Neither the Devas nor the demons or even the sages could cross that mountain easily. Arjuna and I will attack Nikumbha. While he is defending himself, Pradyumna, you rescue Banumathi and take her back. Myself and Arjuna will follow him.”-Sharing his plan with Arjuna and Pradyumna, Krishna mounted on Garuda and started flying uphill the Gokarna.

         Krishna and Arjuna fired arrows on Nikumbha. Nikumbha was unable to fly and defend himself by holding Banumathi at the same time. So, he placed Banumathi on a rock next to him and started attacking Krishna and Arjuna. Pradyumna used this opportunity and rescued Banumathi before Nikumbha could notice. He took her back to the family.

         Nikumbha who was oppressed by the continuous arrows of Krishna and Arjuna noticed that Banumathi was taken by Pradyumna. He abandoned the mountain and started flying towards Shatpura. Mounted on Garuda, Krishna and Arjuna followed him. By the time they reached Shatpura, it was night. Nikumbha was safe inside the city while Krishna and Arjuna were waiting outside. In the meantime, Pradyumna returned to Shatpura’s entrance where Krishna and Arjuna were waiting.

Krishna, Arjuna and Pradyumna attack Nikumbha in front of Shatpura!

      “Nikumbha is safe inside his city with his family and friends. He should probably be coming out once he is refreshed. Till then we have to wait.”-sensing that end of Nikumbha is near, Krishna spoke in an assured tone to Arjuna and Pradyumna.

 Arjuna unconscious!

         After a long wait, as sensed by Lord Krishna, Nikumbha came out of the city entrance. Desiring the death of Nikumbha, Arjuna and Pradyumna blocked Nikumbha from moving. They fired arrows around Nikumbha and made him stand still. But the ferocious and powerful Nikumbha came out of the blockade and struck Arjuna and Pradyumna on their head with his mace. Unable to handle the power of Nikumbha, the valiant Arjuna and mighty Pradyumna fell unconscious.

 Seeing Arjuna and Pradyumna lying unconscious, Krishna got angry. He took his mace and started attacking Nikumbha. Unable to be defeated, both of them fought fiercely like trumpeting elephants. Krishna, having powerful arms, an expert in battle, playing with his mace Kaumodaki, showed a variety of techniques.  Nikumbha got angry as he found it hard to defeat Krishna. Krishna swirled his Kaumodaki and hit hard on Nikumbha’s head. Enraged, Nikumbha whirled his mace with full swing and with a terrible roar; he pulled all his strength and hit Krishna. For a moment, Krishna was unable to hold himself to the ground. He touched the ground with his mace for support. Within the instance of blink of eyelids, he became unconscious and fell down.

Krishna attack Nikumbha with Kaumodaki!

 “Lord Shiva warned me that Krishna will kill me. This man! This man is going to kill me!! Not even able to stand against my one full swing, he fell down like a dry leaf unable to stand against a typhoon. Weaklings! Against me, all are weaklings. I’m the best!!! I cannot be defeated. Never, ever.”- Mocking Krishna and so proud of his power, Nikumbha laughed at Krishna who was lying unconscious. Filled with pride, he looked at Krishna and his soul vanished leaving the body on ground. 

Krishna was lying unconscious!   Devas, who were watching the fight from Indralok were astounded on seeing Krishna falling down unconscious. Everyone stood speechless and distressed. Fear struck their heart and they started looking at each other with a confused look. The Devas looked at Indra with one single question in their eyes- “What to do now?”

Confused and clueless, Indra rode his white elephant Airavat to Kailash. He fell on the foot of Lord Shiva-“Oh Lord! Help us! Protect us. Save the world and all of us. Nikumbha has gone fiercer. He is troubling everyone. No one is able to stop him. He even made Krishna, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu unconscious.”

      Lord Shiva smiled-“Don’t worry Indra. The end is near for Nikumbha. I believe Krishna did this on his own will. Who is capable of making Krishna unconscious, unless he decides to? Mix Ganga water with amruth and sprinkle on Krishna. He will regain consciousness.”

      Lord Indra took the amruth and rushed towards Krishna. He sprinkled the elixir amruth mixed with Ganga water on Krishna to revive him. Once Krishna came back to senses, he used his power on Arjuna and Pradyumna to regain consciousness.

       Arjuna saw Nikumbha’s body lying on ground. He took up his bow and shouted at Nikumbha’s body-“Get up Nikumbha! Get up you cruel soul! Come and fight. Are you tired?”

         While Arjuna was wondering whether he is dead or not, Pradyumna, the expert in illusion realized that Nikumbha’s soul is not there. “Oh Father! Nikumbha’s soul is not here! Only his body is here! The one with the wicked intelligence has gone somewhere else. He is still alive!”

         Confused Arjuna queried Krishna,”Oh Madhava! Is Nikumbha more powerful than you? I’m the world’s best archer but yet none of my arrows killed him. He even made you unconscious. How come he did this to you?”

       Krishna smiled and in a serene voice he said, “Oh Arjuna! Son of Pandu, Nikumbha cannot be killed by any weapons of humans or even Devas. He is a great tyrant   having three souls, a boon he got from Lord Shiva. I destroyed one during his abduction of Banumathi. And, when I hit him with my mace, here in front of Shatpura, I killed the second one. The one that was inside Shatpura was difficult to kill.  Now he’s left with the only chance to take the one from Shatpura. It’s time to kill him and it’s getting late. I will save the story for our return journey. Just follow my lead.”

        They destroyed the body of Nikumbha that was lying on the ground. Once the body was destroyed, thousands and thousands of Nikumbha emerged in the sky. Arjuna and Pradyumna started firing their arrows. Filled with wrath, thousands of Nikumbhas approached Krishna to kill him. Lord Indra and other devas were watching all this with a wonder. Though it was all Nikumbha’s illusion, every single illusion of Nikumbha fought like the real Nikumbha. Even the illusion form of Nikumbha was unable to be killed. Every time an arrow pierces the body, the body just splits and joins again. It seemed like there was no end to this war.

       Sensing that Krishna would never stop at this, Nikumbha’s illusionary forms seized Arjuna. Few held Arjuna’s bow, few held Arjuna’s legs and few held his hands making Arjuna unable to move. Holding the greatest archer Arjuna they rose up in the sky. Then all the Nikumbha’s illusions turned into Arjuna.

     Master of knowledge, Lord Krishna understood that it was an act of Nikumbha.  Pradyumna, who is an expert in illusion, cut off Nikumbha’s illusions carefully by shooting his celestial arrows. Lord Krishna realized the true form of Nikumbha. He understood that the only soul left for Nikumbha is the one that’s holding Arjuna firmly. He took his discus. Using his discus, Lord Krishna cut off the head of Nikumbha’s physical being.

         The moment Nikumbha’s head was cut, his body fell down from the sky like an uprooted tree that got struck in the hurricane. Pradyumna got hold of Arjuna who was also falling down. Krishna, Arjuna and Pradyumna destroyed the final body of Nikumbha and returned towards Dwaraka with Krishna explaining the story of Nikumbha and his brother. 

Akshya Patra

Sage Durvasa, son of Sage Atri and Devi Anusuya is said to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Sage Durvasa was feared by all because of his short temper. And whenever he is angry, he would curse people. Though he was short tempered, he was also said to grant boons to people who pleased his heart. Kunti served Sage Durvasa when he visited King Kuntibhoja’s palace. Kunti is the foster daughter of Kuntibhoja, King of Kunti Kingdom. Pleased by her service and patience, Sage Durvasa taught her the Atharvaveda Mantra which endowed her to call upon gods to bless her with sons. Using this mantra Kunti prayed to Sun god and gave birth to Karna. After marrying King Pandu, she used the same Mantra and prayed to Lord Yama, Lord Vayu and Lord Indra and gave birth to Yudhistra, Bheema and Arjuna respectively. She taught the same Mantra to Madhuri and Madhuri prayed to Ashwini Kumars and gave birth to Nakula and Sahadeva.

Lord Sun bestowing Akshya Patra

While the Pandavas were in exile with Draupathi, Lord Surya bestowed Yudhistra with the “Akshaya Patra”, a divine pot that ensures that the Pandavas and Draupathi never go hungry in their exile. During their exile in 14 years, they camped in various country sides and knowing that the Pandavas are staying, several sages would visit their hut along with their disciples.  So the Akshaya Patra helped them in providing food all day, but with one condition that the pot would exhaust once Draupathi finishes her meal.

Sage Durvasa in Hastinapur!

One day, while the Pandavas were in exile, Sage Durvasa visited Hastinapur with his disciples. Prince Duryodhana and his brothers served them well.  Pleased by the warm welcome and service from Duryodhana and his brothers, Sage Durvasa granted a boon for Duryodhana. Duryodhana, as per the advice of Saguni, who never spared an opportunity to trouble the Pandavas, requested Sage Durvasa and his disciples to visit Yudhistra’s hut. Duryodhana and Saguni also made sure that Sage Durvasa and his disciples would leave Hastinapur in such a way that they would reach the Pandavas’ hut only after Draupathi has finished her meal. Sage Durvasa and his disciples visited the Pandavas’ hut. Though Yudhistra along with Draupathi and his brothers Bheema, Nakula and Sahadeva were all in shock to see the saints, they gave warm welcome to the saints. Arjuna left his brothers and Draupathi to do 12 years of severe penance under rigorous circumstances wishing Paasupathaasthram from Lord Shiva.  As it’s a custom to serve the saints with food when they visit the house, Pandavas and Draupathi were all in confusion on how to serve them food as Draupathi had already finished her meal and has washed the Akshaya Patra. 

“Yudhistra! Myself and my disciples are tired and hungry because of the long travel. We will go and refresh in the river before the meal is served. Ask your wife Draupathi to prepare food for us soon. I’m hungry because of the travel.”-Saying so, Sage Durvasa went to the riverbed to refresh. His disciples followed him.

Pandavas welcoming Sage Durvasa!

 While the saints were in the bank of the river, Sahadeva and Bheema went to make arrangements for the saints to rest. Nakula went to pick wood for fuel. Yudhistra and Draupathi were in the hut confused on what to do. “Oh Lord! I have finished having food. The Akshaya Patra has also been washed. It won’t provide us food anymore for the day. What to do? After my meal time, Sage Durvasa has visited.”-Draupathi queried Yudhistra.

“Draupathi, we can’t blame for what has happened. Let’s see what can be done. This is all God’s test. It’s customary that we should serve food for sages. We can’t serve them left overs. As his disciples too have accompanied him, we need more food to serve. You have to cook fresh only. Let me ask Sahadeva to go inside the forest and look for fruits and vegetables. I will ask him to get something that you can cook sooner before Sage Durvasa and his disciples return.”- Saying so Yudhistra left the hut.

Yudhistra sent Sahadeva to look for food while he and Bheema made sure that proper arrangements are done for Sage Durvasa and his disciples to sit for meal. Nakula returned with woods. ”Draupathi, I have collected woods for cooking. Make sure you cook fast. We can’t keep him wait. He gets angry when people make him wait. I will go and help my brothers for arrangements.”-Nakula too left Draupathi in the hut. She was pondering on what to do.

While Draupathi was lost in her thoughts, Sahadeva returned with little amount of fruits and vegetables. “Draupathi, this is all I was able to find among the woods. Prepare something sooner. It seems like Sage Durvasa is about to finish chanting the Gayathri Mantra. Once he is done with the Mantra, he will sit for the meal. Prepare quicker.”-Sahadeva was urging Draupathi and in the meantime Yudhistra returned to the hut.

“Oh Lord! It’s already too late and there’s not enough rice left to prepare food for all of them. It’s not going to be enough to serve all. There isn’t much time to prepare food too. I will go and inform Sage Durvasa and will face the consequences. His curse is acceptable as it is my fault to eat even before the day ends.”- Draupathi explained her stand to Sahadeva and Yudhistra and started leaving the hut.

“Wait, Draupathi. It’s not your fault to have food early. But, my fault. As a husband, I should be aware of situations like this and should be responsible to make sure there’s everything to meet it. I failed in my responsibilities as a husband to meet the household needs. I will go and ask for forgiveness from him.”- Saying so Yudhistra left the hut accompanied by Sahadeva.

Draupathi stood disappointed. "What am I supposed to do now? If it’s God’s test, why would there be a situation where we are meant to fail." Thinking on what could be done, Draupathi stood holding the fruits and vegetables that Sahadeva has brought. It was at that time she remembered Krishna’s words.

“Draupathi, consider these 14 years as a test to prepare yourself for the war. It’s important that you all earn the blessings of Lord. The only way to earn the blessings when you have nothing is by providing food for saints. Do provide food and take care of them while the rishis, saints and his disciples visit your hut.”- Krishna’s words echoed in Draupathi’s heart.

“Govinda! What would I do? How will I be able to provide food when there’s nothing in the hut? Why would God test us like this under these circumstances, that too with Sage Durvasa? I know if it’s a test there should definitely be a way to succeed. What is it that we are supposed to do but we aren’t doing? What is it that I have forgot or failed to do? Oh, Govinda!”- Draupathi was talking to herself thinking of Lord Krishna. Tears dropped while she was praying him. Her whole heart was filled with only Krishna.

“I was so worried of how my friend is doing and so I travel a long distance to see her and she is not even noticing that I’m here! Pch..Not fair. I’m deeply hurt.”- Krishna said with an impish worry.

Draupathi’s heart felt like a feather on hearing the voice. “Krishna!!!” Draupathi was surprised and at the same time relieved to see Krishna standing behind her. “It’s you! It’s really you!! Oh Govinda! I was just thinking of you few minutes back and now you are here! Right in front of me!”- Draupathi was so excited like a child.

“Ah! So you haven’t thought of me in these days. Only just now you thought of me! That’s so hurting to hear from a friend.”- Krishna starred at Draupathi with his playful anger.

“Oh, Krishna!”-Draupathi looked at Krishna.

“How are you my dear friend? Things are fine here, right?”- Krishna enquired Draupathi with a smile and concern.

“It’s really a miracle, Krishna! I stand here helpless and amazingly you are here, like my protector! You are my redeemer, Govinda! I feel so comforted.” – Draupathi relieved on Krishna’s arrival, started explaining to him the arrival of Sage Durvasa and the situation.

“Aha! So, you thought of me only because you were in trouble! Is it planned by you? Every time when I come to see you with concern and love, you make use of me to take care of your distresses. Next time, before I leave to see you, I should really enquire and make sure you are without troubles. Nice friend I have got!”- Krishna shook his head with a false dissatisfaction. “Right, Sage Durvasa and his disciples seem to take time. I’m tired and exceptionally hungry because of the travel. I didn’t have anything in the way. So much love for my friend. Get me some food to eat.”- Krishna looked at Draupathi with expectation.

Draupathi’s smiling and relieved face turned pale “Krishna! I thought of you to relieve from exactly the same problem. And you stand here asking for food! You are doubling my trouble. Help me with a way to alleviate from this trouble.” – Draupathi looked at Krishna like a kid looking at mom for help.

Krishna smiled and asked her to bring the Akshaya Patra. “But Krishna, there’s no rice left. I washed the Akshaya Patra long back itself.”- replied confounded Draupathi. Krishna stood there looking at her with assured eyes and so she followed his instructions and took the Akshaya Patra and gave it to him.

Sufficing world's hunger!

Krishna looked into the pot and found a piece of rice sticking to it. “Hmmm, there’s not much left. Just single rice is all inside. I don’t think you can feed Sage Durvasa and his disciples with this single rice grain.”- Saying so he took it and added to his mouth. He slowly chewed it and swallowed it like enjoying a meal. Then he patted his stomach and announced that his hunger has gone. Draupathi stood frozen trying to grasp what was happening.

The moment Krishna patted his stomach, the hunger of not just Sage Durvasa and his disciples, but the hunger of all the living beings on the earth was sufficed. By the time Sage Durvasa finished chanting Gayathri Mantra, he realized that his stomach was full. He wondered on how it is possible when he has not yet had any food. He closed his eyes and he had the vision of Krishna patting his stomach. Sage Durvasa understood that it was all Lord Krishna’s leela.

Sage Durvasa went near Yudhistra and his brothers who were waiting there to beg for forgiveness. “Yudhistra! It’s so smart of Draupathi to seek help from the one who can do anything without making others angry.”- Sage Durvasa spoke in an appreciative tone. While the Pandavas stood pondering what Sage Durvasa was talking about Krishna and Draupathi came out of the hut.

“I know it’s your trick Krishna. You are the one who sated our hunger. Finally you played one of your tricks with me also! Draupathi, it’s really a blessing for you to have Krishna by your side. It’s all dharma that is binding you both. I’m really gratified at your service. My blessings to you and to the Pandavas. Krishna is by your side, referring that Dharma is on your side. I’m sure you will get what you seek.”- blessing Draupathi, Krishna and the Pandavas, Sage Durvasa and his disciples started continuing their journey.

And thus, Krishna saved the honor of the Pandavas and they escaped the wrath of Sage Durvasa.

Burning of Khandava vana!

         One day, Krishna and Arjuna were taking a stroll in the banks of river Yamuna. While they were passing by the Khandava vana, Lord Agni appeared in front of them in the form of a Brahmin and spoke, “I am Agni Deva, the God of Fire. I need food. I like to consume this forest wholly. But Takshaka, the King of serpents resides in this forest and he is a friend of Indra. Whenever I set this forest on fire, Lord Indra comes to rescue Takshaka with a heavy rainfall. And so I remain hungry, unable to consume this forest. I request you both to help me burn Khandhava vana.”

Lord Agni giving the Gandiva

      Sri Krishna replied, “Arjuna, Khandhava vana is a dense forest. It has become a hiding place for many dangerous creatures and also to robbers and thieves. It is necessary to eliminate this forest for the welfare of the people of Indraprastha.” And he turned towards Agni Deva and spoke, “Agni Deva, we will help you to burn the forest but you must provide us with divine weapons so that we can fight against Lord Indra.”

     On listening to Krishna’s words, Lord Agni agreed and provided the Sudharshana Chakra and the mace called Kaumodaki to Krishna. He gave the Gandiva bow with quiver which would always be full of arrows to Arjuna and also gave a divine chariot called Nandighosh.

Lord Agni burning the forest

         Arjuna and Krishna stood at the entrance of the forest. Arjuna encircled the forest with his arrows to prevent the creatures from escaping when the forest is set on flame. With all set, Arjuna gave signal to Agni Deva and Lord Agni started to consume the forest. Huge flames engulfed the forest. Lord Agni was too furious that the flames reached the sky and the day sky was looking red. Countless birds, animals and insects were burnt alive in the forest fire.

Arjuna using Vayavastra

         Lord Indra came to know of the fire in Khandhava vana and came rushing to the forest with Lord Varuna, the god for rain. Lord Indra ordered for rain clouds to rain heavily that will stop the fire. But Arjuna saw the rain clouds approaching towards the forest and he blew the clouds away using the Vayavastra. Furious, Lord Indra severed the peak of Mount Mandar and tossed it at Arjuna. With the help of his divine Gandiva, Arjuna broke it into pieces.

         At that time Krishna spoke to Lord Indra, “Indra! Your friend Takshaka has left the forest when the flames started. He is safe. Let Agni Deva devour this forest for it is supporting criminal activities. Allow Agni Deva to burn it down to ashes.”

         Listening to Krishna’s words, Lord Indra apologized for his work, gave his blessings to Arjuna and Krishna and left for Indralok. Agni Deva burnt the Khandhava vana for fifteen days continuously, till it was burnt to ashes completely. While Agni Deva was burning the forest a demon named Maya escaped from the fire. Krishna noticed the demon and was about to kill him when the demon fell at Arjuna’s feet and pleaded to save him. Arjuna and Krishna asked Agni Deva to leave Maya. After burning the entire forest, Agni Deva thanked Krishna and Arjuna and left for his palace.

Mayasura with Krishna and Arjuna

         Maya spoke to Arjuna, “Thank you both of you for saving my life. Give me an opportunity to return my favor. Let me know how I can be of help to you. I possess an exceptional talent and skill in architecture.”

           Arjuna asked Maya to build a palace for the Pandavas. Maya constructed a magnificent palace with extraordinary interior decorations. The palace floors were crystal clear looking like mirror. The Pandavas and Draupathi were amazed at the work of Maya and thanked him for his efforts. Honored, Maya gave a golden mace with extraordinary weight to Bhīma and the conch with extremely loud sound, Devadatta to Arjuna. On an auspicious day, the Pandavas moved to the palace with Draupathi and lived there happily.

Uluka-The Messenger

    

     It was the night before the great Kurukshetra war. Duryodhana who finds pleasure in insulting the Pandavas made sure he insults them further more before entering the battle field. He was totally certain that he will win the war for sure and he wanted to show his dominance and his contempt towards the Pandavas. So, he asks Uluka, Son of Saguni to go as a messenger to the Pandavas’ camp to convey his message. Saguni, Uluka, Duchadhana and Karna were present in Duryodhana’s camp while Duryodhana was delivering his message .

     Duryodhana looked up at Uluka and said-“Oh Uluka, go as a messenger to the Pandavas’ camp. Speak to those Pandavas the words that I ‘m going to speak, in the manner I say it. Look at Yudhistra directly in his eyes and say this: “Yudhistra, the time has finally come. It’s time for action. No more words and no more sentiments. We are about to fight a frightful war all because of you. Your sentimental and ostentatious peace talks through that juggler Krishna and Sanjaya are now understood that those were just dramas from your end to make everyone look at you as a peace lover. It’s so sad to see that your performances didn’t work well and you get to gather only those few people on your side for that so-called army.”

         Duryodhana narrowed his eyes and laughed in a mocking way. “Oh Son of Pandu, How do you even consider yourself as an honest and honorable man when you try to destroy the world and the life of the people who support you all just for your desire to rule Hastinapur? You present yourself as the most spiritual and virtuous person yet you have wicked intentions covertly inside your heart, like the cat in the story that Rishi Narada told to my father once.”

“If you are wondering which story, here it is: “Once upon a time, there was a cat that went to the Ganges. Standing on the bank of the river with upraised front paws, he said in a firm tone, “I am going to practice asceticism from now on. I will walk on the path of spirituality.” Saying so, the cat started carrying out its austerity, more seriously. The cat’s asceticism and serene conduct made the birds and mice to trust him. They even praised the cat’s devotion and in course time, they even took shelter of him, protected the cat from rain and cold. The birds and mice even forgot that the cat is their natural enemy and that it’s in the cat’s blood to feed on them. They went to the cat one day and said in most humble voice,” Oh great soul, we seek your protection. Be our refuge. Be like a best friend who helps us at times of trouble and protect us from our enemies.” The cat agreed halfheartedly and said-‘I will do whatever I can. You people have helped me during my austerity. It’s all because of your support I was able to carry out my austerity. But there’s a small favor I would need from you guys. My austerities without food has made me weaker and it’s tough for me to walk to the banks of the river to take bath. If one of you can assist me daily in taking me to the river for bath, I will be more grateful to you all.’ The mice and the birds believed in the cat’s words and they agreed to it. Every day morning, when the cat goes for taking bath, either a mice or a bird would assist the cat to the banks of river Ganges. The cat would eat them. While returning, the cat would lie that they left while he was taking bath. The cat would behave like it is eating fruits and vegetables daily. This went on for days and as a result, the cat grew fat and stronger whereas the count of the mice and birds withered. One wise mouse realized what’s happening. The mice gathered all and said, “Friends, if a cat is feeding on just fruits and vegetables, there’s no chance it could become this fat. Those who accompany the cat to the banks are missing daily. It clearly means that the cat is eating them. The cat is only pretending to be following the path of spirituality but in real, it’s feeding on us. We will be safe only if we all escape from the cat.” The other mice and birds agreed to it and they fled away. The abandoned cat came to know that the mice and birds realized its plan and escaped. Saddened, the cat too returned to where it came from.”

Wax house

   “Oh Yudhistra, You are just like the cat. Accompanied by your brothers, you are behaving in the same way. You speak as if you are a gentleman but in real, your acts say otherwise. At least in this battle, come out and fight like you are a Kshatriya. Don’t hide yourself. Your mother, Matha Kunti was crying all the time while you people were in exile. At least try to satisfy her. Win this war, if it is possible, for her sake. She might think at least now that she has given birth to only Kshatriyas. Show us your real strength. Don’t fall for your weakness and go for the peace talks again. Remember all those I have done to you all: Poisoning Bhīma, The wax house, Insulting Draupathi, the dice game…Oh there are lots that I can bring up but I believe these are more than enough to make you people come and fight. With that so-called army! Oh yeah! Army! Yudhistra, don’t get scared tomorrow on seeing the vast army of mine marching to destroy you people and your hope of survival because we are fighting under the mighty Bhishma, Dronacharya, Krpacharya and my Karna.”

Duryodhana ridiculed and mocked the Pandavas and their army. He taunted them reminding about the vows they took during Draupathi’s Cheer Haran- “Oh, I insulted your wife and dragged her to the court and you all stood there doing nothing. How do you all consider yourself as a Kshatriya? How do you even consider yourself as a man when you let someone else drag your wife? Draupathi was not insulted by me or by my brothers but by you all, the Pandavas. She came to this family believing you five and yet you all left her unfortified. Shame on you all, sons of Pandu. You five stood there like dead meat while your wife was insulted and do you all even consider yourself as great warriors!?  If you all are man, don’t let your insult go unavenged.”  He admired himself for all his powers and also his victory in sending the Pandavas to exile. He delivered his individual message to every son of Pandu. He conveyed his message to Krishna too, in his own way.

Cheer Haran

      Duryodhana laughed admiring at his power. He continued his egotistical message as a result of the encouragements from Saguni and Duchadhana. They cheered him to speak more ill of the Pandavas and Draupathi. Duryodhana continued his boastful message,” I am far superior to you all. I have made you guys live in exile. I have made you all live in fear by hiding yourself. The alleged talented Arjuna wore bangles to hide from me. Bhīma, the one who swore to kill me and my brothers, hid himself in the kitchen, cleaning pots and utensils. Is this not enough to prove that I am superior? Remember, I have no fear on Krishna or the Pandavas or any of the fools and chumps who chose to fight against me. No matter what you all try, I will never let you, the Pandavas, to live. I will never give you people land to rule. I, in fact, will remove you all from the face of the earth. Let the battle begin tomorrow. Then you people will realize your idiocy in fighting against me. You all are like the fish in a tank that never knows about ocean. You all think yourself so high and talented than the mighty and multi-talented gurus like Pithamaha Bhishma, Dronacharya and Krpacharya. You all are like ants trying to render a mountain with its teeny-weeny teeth. Come to the battle field tomorrow morning to see how vast my army is. To know how many supporters are there for me. The moment you see the vast limitless army of mine, not only your desire to rule Hastinapur but even your beliefs of ruling the world will disappear. For tomorrow, I am going to prove you all, yet again that I am the rightful ruler of this world.”

Duryodhana concluded his message and told Uluka to deliver the message, as it is. Uluka memorized every single word of Duryodhana’s one hour long message. He mounted on his chariot and rode towards the camp of the Pandavas. Uluka knew that Duryodhana’s message will provoke the Pandavas. He felt his nerves trembling out of fretfulness while he was entering the tent of the Pandavas. Krishna, the Pandavas, Dhrishtadyumna, Sikandi and other chiefs were present in the tent.

Uluka bowed in front of Yudhistra and continued in a quivering tone, "I have come here on the command of Duryodhana. Kindly see me only as a messenger. On hearing my words, don’t get angry on me for I will speak only what Duryodhana has told me to say and nothing more. No part of the message I convey comes from my heart.”

Yudhistra smiled at Uluka and showed him a seat to sit and relax. “Don’t be afraid, Uluka. We have no reason to be mad at you. Speak freely. We all know that my brother, Duryodhana has his own reasons to rule Hastinapur and that he has failed to see what this war means to him and to his brothers. He failed to anticipate the effect of this war on Pithamaha and Guru Dronacharya, for his head is full of pride and insatiability. We know that the news you brought is definitely not peace favoring. Tell us what he has conveyed through you. You are only a messenger and we won’t hurt the messengers.”

Uluka sensed that all pairs of eyes in the tent were fixed upon him. With a heavy burden running through his nerves, Uluka cleared his throat and stood up. He started conveying Duryodhana’s message. While he was continuing, he felt the ire and agitations developing around him. With nerves of fear, Uluka started conveying the message that was meant for the five brothers and the separate message meant for Yudhistra.

Uluka paused to grasp his breath wondering this might even be his last breath. Bhīma utilized the moment of gap and rose from his seat. He started to move towards Uluka with anger. Yudhistra stopped Bhīma saying, “Bhīma, he is just a messenger. Control yourself and be seated. Let’s listen to the rest.”

Yudhistra turned towards Uluka and said in a polite voice,” Uluka, Do you need something to ease your throat? Take your time and relax. You said that Duryodhana has sent message to all of my brothers. Convey the rest too.”

Uluka staggered without words. “Do you really want to hear the rest too?”- He mumbled in fear.

          Of course. We have to, right?”- Yudhistra said with a dejected smile.

   Uluka turned his eyes towards Bhīma who was already ready to explode anytime. Uluka stood silent for a moment, took a deep breath and continued-"Duryodhana’s next message is for Bhīma. He says: “You boaster! I heard you have become a good cook after working in King Virada’s Kitchen. You vowed that you will rip Duchadhana’s heart and drink his blood, right! Let me tell you something. Holding a knife in kitchen is not the same as holding a mace in battle. Do you even remember how to hold a mace? If you choose asylum, I can allow you to cook in my kitchen, considering your experiences!”

Uluka knew that hearing the message Bhīma would really be enraged. So, he didn’t even pause to give time for Bhīma to respond or react. He turned towards Arjuna and continued, “Duryodhana says-“Arjuna! Partha! The greatest archer in this world,ever!! I heard you spent your time in Virada’s kingdom with women. Singing, dancing and having fun! Heard you were into it. It was difficult to differentiate you from other ladies in the palace it seemed. I wonder how a person like you is going to kill …no… no… no...’Killing’ is a tough effort for you, Hmmm…’stand against’ will be the correct term! Right, how is it that someone like you is going to stand against the great Pithamaha Bhishma and the great warrior Karna? Answer me, Lady! I would really like to know the answer. Are you sure you can hold the pressure in the battle field, Lady!?”

          Uluka turned towards Nakula and Sahadeva while Arjuna was trying to hold his fury and said, "Duryodhana says to you both-” Nakula and Sahadeva! Oh, the darlings of the Pandavas! I believe you both would have realized by now that you both belong only in the stable and cowsheds and not in the battle filed. I would really like to employ you both, the talented and authentic workers in my stable and cowshed, But, I am sorry, for I will be killing you both in the war. It really hurts me to lose such great labors for my country.”

          Uluka hesitated to continue and starred at Krishna with questions filled in his eyes. Sheer moment of silence persisted in the tent. Krishna sensed Uluka’s fear and spoke with a friendly smile on his lotus lips, “Uluka, Duryodhana has sent message for me too, right? Do tell me, he didn’t forget me. I am eager to listen to it. Do convey it fast before I lose my patience.”

  

  Bracing himself, Uluka said, “Duryodhana said-“That illusionist Krishna will be seated there, right! You illusionist Krishna, I am not afraid of your tricks and magic. I am not like one of your cows in Vrindhavan to follow you blindly.  I remember your performance-that entertaining universal form which you exhibited while you were in Hastinapur for peace talks. That was much entertaining. Let’s meet in the battle field. Come in that mystical form and let’s see what difference it will make. Oh! Sorry…I forgot that you will be only controlling the horses in Arjuna’s chariot! You won’t be holding weapons, right! Poor Krishna, after all those illusions and enactments all you get to do is only control the horses. Awww…You are just an escape artist. Just like how you were while stealing butter. Teach some of your moves to those Pandavas. It might be useful for them when they try to run away from the battle field, unable to stand against my terrifying army. I know you and your powers. I, Duryodhana, standing on my simple chariot and holding my most powerful mace, challenge you and Arjuna who have the Gandiva bow and the blessing of limitless quivers and the most powerful chariot given by Lord Agni.  See, now you all will know who is more powerful. You all come to fight with me getting support from the Lord and devas. Doesn’t that say that you all are afraid of me! I still could face thousands of Krishnas and Arjunas and yet will be able to make you people abscond from the battle field.”

Uluka saw Krishna wondering what is running inside Krishna’s head who was listening calmly, without any expression on his face. Uluka turned towards Yudhistra and bowed at him, "That’s the message Duryodhana wanted me to convey to you all. I swear none of those came from my heart.”

 Uluka finished conveying Duryodhana’s message to all. He sensed that everyone were speechless out of rage. The air inside the tent was intense with silence and wrath waiting for the hot explosions. Uluka was sure that this will be his last night on earth. Uluka spun his dreaded eyes on everyone with his head still bowed and noticed Krishna smiling at him while everyone else where fleeting shafts of fury on him.

Sensing Uluka’s fear from his looks, Krishna grinned and said, "Uluka, Go back to Duryodhana and tell him that we got his message and the connotation. Let it be as he has thought and referred. The battle will begin tomorrow and let’s meet in the battle field tomorrow morning.”

Enraged already on the abusive words from Duryodhana, Bhīma’s eyes turned red out of anger and listening to Krishna’s simple response, Bhīma delivered an angry look on Krishna, “That’s it!? Is that all you want to convey to that heartless creature!?” Bhīma turned towards Uluka and roared, "Say this to that callous creature. “You fool, Duryodhana! I remember every single word of my vow. You have pushed your fate to this situation which is not only going to kill you but also your brothers. Be prepared from tomorrow to see your brothers being grounded in the battle field in my very arms that’s going to kill you too. Be prepared to see the death of your beloved Duchadhana while I drink his blood, right in front of your eyes before I grind him and stab him to death. Even before those images will vanish from your mind, I will kill you. I am going to be your worst nightmare from today. To you and to your brothers. I swear by my soul that the death of you and your brothers, your sons, nephews, cousins and kings who support you is near.””

Bhīma came back to his seat relieving Uluka from his fear of being killed by Bhīma. Sahadeva rose from his seat and spoke to Uluka, “Uluka, I have a message for both Duryodhana and your father. Communicate to Duryodhana: "You dupe! You have invited death by yourself. Motivated by Uncle Saguni, you are thinking you can win this world. Remember that you were born only to destroy the life of your own brothers. And you will see it yourself when my brother Bhīma slays everyone, in front of your eyes”. Uluka, convey this to your Father, Saguni: “You fool! You are the one who is behind all this and the Kuru dynasty’s fate has come to this situation, all just because of your tainted heart and brain. You have always behaved with malicious intentions in your heart. Live to see how your plans are going to be the reason for the death of your sons and Duryodhana, till I kill you.”

Uluka sensed that Duryodhana’s message has really stirred what Duryodhana wished for. There was turmoil in the Pandavas’ tent and Uluka started to pray for his time to run back to the Kauravas.

Arjuna stood up and calmed the roar of the kings and looked up at Uluka. “Uluka, convey my message to Duryodhana. “Duryodhana, tomorrow in the battle field you will have my reply delivered through my Gandiva. Do you consider yourself as a Kshatriya? A real Kshatriya fights with his enemies using his strength and not using words. Only eunuchs will do that. You are a coward. A weakling who lives happy life thinking he is powerful. Remember that the life you live now is on the shadow of the mighty strength of Pithamaha Bhishma, Dronacharya and your father’s love. You hide yourself behind all these old man and call yourself as mighty warrior!? Remember, the Sons of Pandu will live by their words. We will do what we have sworn. So, be ready to die.”

Yudhistra who was sitting silent said in a firm voice, “Convey my message to Duryodhana and his brothers. “Duryodhana, I got your message. You have judged me wrongly. I don’t desire even ants and worms. I do not have any desire to rule Hastinapur or to hurt your father’s feelings and your wish. That’s why I agreed for five villages. To avoid this war. You are conquered by lust. You were not ready to take the advices of Uncle Vidhura, Pithamaha, Sanjaya, your father and even Krishna’s. Even Bhīma was ready for  peace, ignoring his vows. But you were never ready to listen with your inadequate understanding. So, remember that it’s only because of you this war is going to happen. A war, to show you that envy and thirst to power will take you nowhere. You have taken the path of evil, my brother. You challenge us to war only based on others’ expertise. There’s still time for you to think but I know you won’t do the rethinking part. So, don’t roar so much.”

Uluka was taken aback listening to Yudhistra’s words. Even the silent Yudhistra has spoken what’s in his heart. Clearly, the message of Duryodhana has kindled the Pandavas like bush fire. Now, Uluka was intensely fretful. He felt the restlessness in the tent. Uluka bowed before Yudhistra and prepared to leave before the Pandavas or anyone in the tent start their flaming message.

Krishna said in an unruffled tone, “Uluka, Go back safely. While you convey the messages from here, add mine too: “Duryodhana, I know that you have sent such a message to me because I have sworn I won’t fight. Remember that I have taken Yudhistra’s words into consideration. That this war is among you brothers and so they have to avenge and pay you back and not me. Else, for what you have done to Draupathi, I would have burnt you and your brothers into ashes on that very day itself. But, I swear to you Duryodhana, awake or asleep, you will hear my voice throbbing you, till death. Neither of the Pandu sons is afraid of you. And same is with the army here. So be prepared to face the vows of Bhīma and Arjuna in the battle field.”

Bhīma mangled his hands, breathed heavily and rose from his seat. Not able to suppress his rage, he spoke harshly, “Add this too, Uluka. “Duryodhana, I confront you sinful creature. You and your brothers should have remained in Hastinapur itself. You all made a mistake coming here. Know me as the death of Dhritarashtra’s sons. It’s going to be a long night for me for I have to wait till the morning to meet you all and kill you people.”"

As soon as Bhīma has finished, Arjuna rose. Not satisfied in his abrupt response to Duryodhana, he spoke again, “Tell this too, Uluka. "Oh Duryodhana, I know why you have made Pithamaha Bhisma as the commander in chief, you sinful soul. You think we will never attack him or Dronacharya? Although I worship my Guru and my Grandfather more than my life, they are on your side. You are the one in their head. They act and fight only because of you. Such a possessed wisdom and knowledge all are gone waste just because you are taking control of their senses. And for that, Bhīma is going to kill you. And I will kill Pithamaha for taking your side. They chose death by being with you and they knew it. So don’t have any hopes and dreams of killing us or ruling the world.”"

Uluka sensed that Arjuna has finished his message. He bowed to the people assembled and started to leave the tent with a ray of hope and happiness inside him. Even before he could cross everyone, Dhrishtadyumna rose from his seat with his voice echoing the tent, “Uluka, Take my message too to your Prince." Uluka’s ray of hope dimmed and he stood frozen wondering what message it is going to be. Dhrishtadyumna continued when Uluka turned towards him with eyes of fear, “Tell Duryodhana that I was born to kill Dronacharya. There’s no hope for Dronacharya to survive till the end of the war and so there’s no hope for the Kauravas to win too. Duryodhana’s followers will be killed by me. Tell him to lose the talk and dreams. Ask him to come and fight like a Kshatriya.”

Uluka turned his fear soaked eyes towards Yudhistra. Yudhistra nodded his head in an accepting way. Uluka bowed and with his palms folded, he rushed towards the entrance of the tent walking backwards. He ran over to his chariot and leapt aboard, urging his horses back to the Kauravas camp. Yudhistra discussed with Dhrishtadyumna, the commander in chief of the Pandavas and began to move his army into position.

 Night has fallen and with the fierce responses from the Pandavas camp, Uluka went back to Kauravas’ camp. He was able to hear Duryodhana and Duchadhana still mocking the Pandavas and laughing hysterically.  Uluka entered into Duryodhana’s tent. He flicked through the tent and realized that the Kauravas were all celebrating and having fun. Duryodhana and Duchadhana were drunk and were teasing the Pandavas. “Uluka, I was waiting for you all this time. Come, come. Come fast and tell me how those witty brothers of mine responded to my message. How was their face on listening to message? Afraid, scared to death, terrorized! I believe Bhīma would have shouted out of anger, like a dog barking at the one who throws stones on it. Uluka delivered the messages of the Pandavas, Krishna and Dhrishtadyumna. Duryodhana laughed riotously listening to Uluka’s words and said in a mocking way, “Oh! They think they are brave and not terrified! Poor brothers!!! Trying to scare me with their rage filled words! They are afraid. They know that their army will not last more than a day. Not especially against our great Pithamaha Bhishma.  I don’t need anyone else when I have Pithamaha Bhisma, my beloved friend Karna and Dronacharya. Not to exclude the one who cannot be killed- my dear Aswathama.”

Karna who was present in the tent spoke in a firm voice, “That’s true Duryodhana. But you should not be taking them so easily. I won’t be in the battle field. And I don’t think Pithamaha Bhishma will have the inner strength to kill Arjuna or the other Pandavas. So, Arjuna has got a lead there. You should be aware of that.”

Duryodhana who was fully drunk said in a hysterical voice, “Ha Ha Ha… Arjuna!? Against Pithamaha!?  Arjuna will speak bravely. He will also act bravely. He will be valiant, courageous, bold and fearless. All until he sees Pithamaha. His heart will wobble when he sees Pithamaha. Not out of fear but out of respect! I know him. I have seen him for ages. Just wait and see tomorrow. The Arjuna who spoke boldly and vowed that he will kill Pithamaha Bhishma will hardly dare to raise an arrow against his grandfather when he sees him in the battle field.”

Duryodhana was full of confident that he will win the war and that he will get to kill the Pandavas even if Bhisma and Dronacharya failed to do. He assembled the council and discussed with Dronacharya, Saguni, Duchadhana, Aswathama and Pithamaha Bhishma, the commander in chief about organizing the Kauravas army in the attack genre and not in defense genre. With the sunrise, begins the war and Duryodhana was so full of hope waiting to destroy the Pandavas, forever, this time.