Mahabharat Simple Version
Mahabharat Simple Version
Mahabharat Simple Version
ahabharat
MKatharup
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Editorial Board :
Dr. Manohar Pingale
Dr. Mrs. Kirtida Mehta
Shri. Jaganniwas Iyyer
Shri. R. S. Pingale
PREFACE
Since time immemorial THE RAMAYAN has been accorded
the undisputed status of the greatest ever epic alongwith THE
MAHABHARAT Its our proud heritage and national pride. Its
acceptance is of such a degree that the ideal Governance is termed
as THE RAMA RAJYA. People even greet one another in the name
of SHREE RAM, JAI SHREE RAM
Our history, culture, society and peoples lives have been
shaped by the ideals of the Ramayan. Even the most ignorant and
illiterate of our crores of villagers know the story of Shree Ram. A
child gets the first lesson of the Ramayan in the mothers lap during
the infancy. While growing older, the knowledge expands. With each
reading of The Ramayan, understanding about life broadens,
becoming a better person and in the process, a better son, father,
husband, brother, citizen and so on.
Of Late, however, our educational system is getting more and
more away from our fundamental base of the ages. Added to that,
the electronic media, the print media and ever-increasing influence
and pressure of the western and outside world has slowly but surely
not only invaded our drawing room but pollutted and corrupted the
entire culture canvas. Leela, Jatras, Kathakali and other cultural
events do not find audiences. In the nuclear family set-up of today
the mother has to play the role of an economic earner also, affecting
child-rearing. The all important Grand-mother has also no place in
todays nuclear family.
A child is brought up on the trash purveyed by the idiot box,
cheap paper-back novels and comic books. The child is more
conversant with Spiderman, The Popeye Cartoon Character than
with Shree Ram, or Mata Seeta, Shree Hanuman or Shree Krishna.
Thus, the childs value systems, character and personality are
shaped by the character he sees on the televisions than by the
noble traits of our real ideal Indian characters.
The English, the child picks up, lacks much in grammer, diction
and usage. It jeopardizes the future of our children. What kind of
citizens will they grow up to be ? What will be their value systems ?
Will their sense of identification and belonging to their motherlandThe Bharath Mata-be affected ? Will they have the knowledge of
and admiration for and committment to our ages-old culture and
2 Shantanu
3 Bheeshmas vow
10
11
12
15
18
23
25
50
52
53
57
14 Ghatotkach is born
33
29
35
28 Yaksha Prashna
61
64
67
70
71
73
78
40
41
44
45
47
48
84
38 Karna is slain
86
88
92
94
95
23 Duryodhans Envy
1 Preface
I N D E X
1. Preface
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2. Shantanu
young strong lad, displaying stupendous skill by showering the arrows obstructing the rivers flow. The boy vanished upon seeing the
king, leaving Shantanu speechless with astonishment. He called out
aloud, Jaahnavi, where are you? Who is this illustrious boy and
how did he become so powerful? Ganga soon appeared before
him holding the boy by hand. She then addressed Shantanu saying, Lord, this is your eighth son. His name is Devavrat. I have
ensured that he has learnt all that a kshatriya must learn. This boy
is well versed in all branches of knowledge including the Vedas and
the Vedangas, all the Shastras and the science of warfare. He is
supreme in the science of archery and is invincible in war. He shall
bring everlasting renown to your dynasty. Do take charge of your
great son, O king. Handing over Devavrat to Shantanu, Ganga
then disappeared.
Shantanu was overjoyed upon receiving his son and took him
to Hastinapur. He then entrusted the responsibilities of the kingdoms
administration to his son. Devavrat proved himself a worthy leader
and came to be loved and respected by the people of Hastinapur.
"
*****
3. Bheeshmas vow
On the banks of the river Yamuna lived the community of fisher
folk. Their ruler was known as Dheevarraj. Once, he found a girl
child in the river and took her home to raise her as her own daughter. He named her Satyavati, but the strong odour of fish emanating
from her body led her to be called Matsyagandha (smelling of fish).
When Satyavati reached teen age, she used to ferry people across
the Yamuna in a boat free of charge.
On one particular day, the stars foretold a different fortune
for the young girl. The great sage Maharshi Parashar boarded
Satyavatis boat one afternoon. The rishi saw that the girl bore signs
of becoming the mother of a very great soul. He told Satyavati what
the gods had ordained and gave birth to a divine son through her.
This boy later became the great Bhagwan Ved Vyas and was renowned throughout the three worlds for his austerity, penance and
supreme knowledge of all things material and spiritual.
Shantanu meanwhile, had still not gotten over his yearning
for Ganga and used to wander the forest indulging in his favourite
pastime of hunting. On one such occasion, he glimpsed Satyavati
and was smitten by her. He approached her saying, O beautiful
one, you seem to be a damsel of divine birth. Will you marry me?
O king, I am the daughter of Dheevarraj, ruler of the fisher
folk. You must approach my father in this regard.
Shantanu approached Dheevarraj asking for Satyavatis hand
but he put forth one condition, Dheevarraj said, Only if you agree
to make Satyavatis son the king of Hastinapur after you, will I agree
to fulfil your demand. Shantanu was stunned into silence.
How could Shantanu even think of depriving his son Devavrat
of his natural right? The king returned dejected but could not banish Satyavati from his heart. Devavrat did not fail to notice his fathers
mental condition and asked him the reason, but Shantanu avoided
giving a straight answer. Devavrat, extremely attached to his father,
found out the real reason after enquiries with the ministers, attendants and the kings charioteer. He came to know of the entire episode.
Devavrat then took a few ministers and a small retinue and
set out from Hastinapur to the banks of the Yamuna and met
Dheevarraj. With due respect the prince said, On behalf of my father, I have come to ask your daughters hand.
O prince, I have no objection whatsoever. But my condition
stands that my grandson alone must become the king.
Devavrat replied calmly but firmly, Rest assured. In the presence of all these Kaurav elders, I promise that I have forsaken my
right to the throne of Hastinapur from this very instant. Your
daughters son alone will be the future king. Everyone was shocked
into silence when they heard Prince Devavrats promise.
unturned to ensure that Hastinapur is not only safe and secure but
also becomes the most powerful empire. Till such time, I shall not
even think of departing from this world.
Thus, Devavrat came to be known in this world as Bheeshma.
Vedic Brahmins and learned persons also referred to him as
Bheeshmacharya.
*****
4. Dhritrashtra and Pandu
Shantanu and Satyavati spent their days happily. In due course
of time, they had two children, Chitrangad and Vichitraveerya.
Shantanu, returned to heaven as ordained by Brahma. Bheeshma
crowned the young Chitrangad as the king of Hastinapur. Chitrangad,
aggressive and violent by nature, was extremely proud of his ability
as a warrior and began challenging anyone and everyone. In one
such duet he was slain by his namesake Gandharva.
Chitrangad was not married and had died without leaving any
heir to the throne. Bheeshma was forced to make Vichitraveerya
the king after consulting Satyavati and the ministers. Vichitraveerya
was too young so Bheeshma assisted him at every step.
As the new king came of age, the question of his marriage
came to the fore. Word went around that the king of Kashi had
arranged the Swayamvar of his three daughters. There was no condition to be fulfilled. The three princesses were free to choose the
husbands of their choice. After consulting Satyavati, Bheeshma proceeded to Kashi with an army.
Bheeshma forced the three princesses of Kashi to board his
chariot and then made off, announcing that he was abducting them
for the king of Hastinapur. This enraged the assembled kings, who
pursued Bheeshma and fought. But none could withstand the mighty
Bheeshmas prowess.
Bheeshma had to send Amba back to Shalva when she told
him that she had already given her heart to Shalva and was to choose
&
*****
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7. The Birth of the Kauravs and Pandavs
King Pandu wished to set out to conquer new territories for
the Kuru Empire and thereby establish his valour and prowess. He
expressed his desire to his uncle Bheeshma who readily agreed.
Pandu then set out with Hastinapurs vast army, complete with infantry, cavalry, chariots, elephants and supplies.
In the course of his victorious campaign, Pandu defeated many
kings and conquered them. He brought unprecedented wealth to
Hastinapur. After returning to his capital, he performed a grand
Ashwamedh yadnya.
A few years passed after the completion of Pandus yadnya.
He grew bored of his daily administrative routine and decided to
escape to the forests along with his two queens and indulge in his
Sarvesh D. Shanbhag, Bhandup
!
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8. The birth of Shree Krishna
deep sleep.
Vasudev put his newborn baby in a basket. He tiptoed out of
the cell and was able to leave without anyone noticing him escape.
He went in the direction of the river Yamuna. The rain and storm
had turned the Yamuna into a raging torrent. Vasudev stepped into
the river as if in a daze. The waters rushed up to his head and
looked like drowning him. But lo and behold! As soon as the waters
touched the feet of the newborn baby they began subsiding. Miraculously, a thin path right in the middle of the river became visible
even in that dark and stormy night. Vasudev stumbled along the
gushing river. Huge walls of water rose on both his sides, roaring
and gushing in the rain and wind. But the thin path miraculously
created guided him on his onward journey. Vasudev was barely conscious of anything as he went on. Neither could he see a huge fiveheaded serpent Shielding the baby from the fierce downpour.
Vasudev managed to reach Gokul, across the banks of the
Yamuna. He proceeded straight to the house of his friend Nand, the
chieftain of the Gop community. Gokul was silent and still. Vasudev
entered Nands house and very quickly told him everything. Nands
wife Yashoda was asleep, having just given birth to a baby girl. Nand
placed Devakis newborn baby in the cradle beside Yashoda and
gave him the baby girl. Vasudev placed her in his basket and hurried back to Mathura, crossing the flooded Yamuna once again. He
had to get back before dawn and before Kans would reach the cell.
No sooner Vasudev reached his prison chamber than the chains
fastened themselves to his feet. The prison doors closed automatically. As soon as the baby girl was placed beside Devaki, she began crying loudly. The guards were awoken; their master had to be
alerted at once.
In a short while, Kans stormed into the prison chamber. Ignoring Devakis cries for mercy, he snatched her baby girl and was
about to dash it against a wall. But in a flash, the infant slipped out
of his hands and assumed her original form of a goddess. She
laughed in scorn at Kans and said: Vile rascal! Your sins are now
going to bear fruit. Your destroyer has been born and is alive. So
saying the goddess vanished in a flash of blinding light.
The fierce rains and storm came to halt in the morning. Gokul
woke up to the cries of a newly born baby. The entire village came
to Nands house to have a look at his just-born child. His radiant
form and enchanting smile captivated one and all. Priests named
him Krishna after consulting the horoscope.
Kans learnt that his enemy was in Gokul after a frantic search
to find out his destroyer. He then sent many demons to kill Shree
Krishna. But Krishna and Balaram slew them all. Kans panic and
anxiety grew with each passing day. When the boys reached adolescence, Kans employed a different strategy. He organized a grand
festival at Mathura. He sent a special emissary to invite Krishna and
Balaram to Mathura with the intent of treacherously killing them.
Shree Krishna and Balaram reached Mathura for this festival. Kans
ordered them to wrestle with his giant wrestlers, Chaanoor and
Mushtik. Balaram killed Mushtik while Shree Krishna took on
Chaanoor and slew him. After finishing Chaanoor, Krishna leapt upon
Kans and threw him down. He then sat on the tyrants chest and
crushed his chest, thus slaying Kans and fulfilling the divine prophecy. Mathura, freed from the tyranny of the evil Kans, resounded
with praises of Shree Krishna and Balaram.
Shree Krishna then freed his parents Vasudev and Devaki
from prison.
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*****
9. The childhood of the Kauravs and Pandavs
King Pandu of Hastinapur was forced to spend his days in the
Himalayan forests doing penance following Rishi Kindams curse.
But due to Kuntis mantra obtained from sage Durvasa years ago,
he was able to obtain five divine children. His two wives and their
children gave Pandu more contentment than he could ever wish for.
He now became a full-fledged ascetic. Pandu, Kunti and Madri spent
'
*****
10. The princes student life
Bheeshma, the grandfather wanted to make the Kaurav and
Pandav princes incomparable warriors. He therefore wished that
they should undergo such education and training that would sharpen
their skills. The guru best suited for this purpose was Dronacharya.
Bheeshma went to meet him. The eldest among the Kurus then
formally requested him to take over the education and training of
the princes of the Kuru Dynasty. Dronacharya accepted this offer
with delight.
The student life of the Kauravs and the Pandavs now began
in earnest under the watchful eye of Guru Dronacharya. They used
to wake two hours before sunrise to begin their daily routine of learning the Vedas, saying their morning prayers, physical exercise, lessons in the use of various shastras and astras, mounting elephants,
horses and chariots. The life was indeed intense, disciplined and
strenuous.
One night at mealtime, a strong gust of wind blew out the
lamps. It became pitch dark. Arjun was sitting alone in a corner of
the ashram, eating in silence. He suddenly realized that the morsel
in his hands went automatically to his mouth even though it was
dark and he could not see his hands or the food. All of a sudden, an
idea flashed in his mind. He left his food, washed his hands and
picked up his bow and arrows to practice even in the dark hour.
Arjun made this a part of his daily routine and soon became an
archer who could hit his target accurately by mere sound.
After a period of time had passed, Guru Dronacharya wished
to test all his disciples. He got an image of vulture in wood placed
upon the branch of a very tall tree. He then summoned all his students to that spot and made them stand in a row. The students had
Vaishanavi Consultant, Thane
!
to hit the eye of the bird with their arrow. Dronacharya then ordered
all his disciples to be ready with their bow and arrow. Beginning with
Yudhishtir, each disciple was summoned one by one. Dronacharya
asked each one of them: Look carefully and tell me what you see.
Gurudev, I can see the tree, the attendant standing below,
the river flowing behind him, the hills beyond and also the bird in the
branches. All students answered likewise.
Dronacharya was disappointed and said to each of them. Do
not discharge your arrow. Go
back to your place.
All the princes were
asked the same question and
everyones answer disappointed the guru. Finally, Arjun
stepped ahead. Dronacharya
asked him to be ready with his
bow and arrow and then asked
him, What do you see?
Gurudev, I can see only
the bird swaying among the
branches.
Arjun, look carefully and
then tell me.
Gurudev, I can now see
only the head of that bird.
Look carefully, very
carefully.
Gurudev, I now see only the eye of the bird.
Shoot!
In an instant, the arrow flew from Arjuns bow and pierced the
eye of the wooden vulture. Dronacharyas joy was boundless. He
embraced Arjun and said, Arjun, I consider myself fortunate that I
have a disciple like you. You are my best and most beloved disciple.
J. K. Shinde, Navi mumbai
"
I shall impart you such knowledge that there will be no bowman like
you throughout the three worlds.
*****
11. The arena of competition
*****
12. Arjun gives his Gurudakshina
The formal training of the Kuru princes was now over. Guru
Dronacharya was satisfied after seeing their display of martial skills.
One morning, after their prayers were over, he summoned the
princes together and announced: The debt that any student owes
to a guru cannot be discharged without the payment of gurudakshina
Today, you all are grown up and quite capable. I can now demand
my fee from you without hesitation.
Dronacharya then proceeded to narrate his life-story in brief.
I lack nothing today. But in our earlier days, we were very poor.
Yagyasen Drupad, the king of the Panchal kingdom was my childhood friend, we being classmates at my fathers ashram. Once in
our childhood days, he had promised me that half of whatever he
possessed would be mine. After becoming a householder, I reminded
Drupad of his promise made during childhood. But Drupad was now
a king. Far from honouring his words, he replied arrogantly, O Drona!
What one says during childhood does not necessarily become a
promise. It is true that we were classmates once upon a time, but
lasting friendship can only be between equals. Everyday, I distribute considerable wealth to the needy. You too may state your need
and I shall only be too happy to fulfil your wish. These words of
Drupad caused me humiliation in public. I then resolved that I would
prepare such pupils who would demolish Drupads pride. You all
must therefore defeat Drupad in battle and produce him before me.
This is the gurudakshina I expect from you.
According to their gurus wishes, the Kuru princes set out from
A. S. Prabhu, Vile Parle
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Your kingdom, army, wealth and prosperity are all mine now. I hope
that you shall have no objection to having me as your friend since
according to you; only a king can be a friend of another king. However, I shall return half your kingdom to you and keep the other half
with me. The areas to the north of the Ganga will be mine while you
can rule over the remaining southern part. My foremost pupil Arjun
has today fulfilled his gurudakshina and I now release all my disciples from Gurus debt. Drupad hung his head and was forced to
accept this humiliation.
Thus, barely into their adolescence, the Pandavs won a major military victory against a powerful kingdom like Panchal. They
also proved their clear ascendancy over their cousins, i.e. the sons
of Dhritarashtra.
*****
13. The Varnavat Conspiracy
The power of the Pandavs as well as their popularity among
the people of Hastinapur was increasing with each passing day.
Dhritrashtra was forced to make Yudhishtir the crown prince. After
all, he was the late King Pandus eldest son and had the legitimate
right to sit on the throne after his father. While this made Duryodhan
burn with jealousy and hatred, Dhritarashtra too worried about his
sons future. Already blind with attachment for his wicked son,
Dhritarashtra made no attempt to stop Duryodhan from doing evil.
None of Duryodhans plots to get rid of the Pandavs had
worked. Repeated failures only made him more frustrated. The evil
foursome i.e. Duryodhan, Dushasan, Karna and Shakuni now decided that the Pandavs had to be finished for good, somehow, anyhow. They also wanted to ensure that the Pandavs should be sent
away from the capital so that their uncle Vidur would not be able to
come to their aid.
Duryodhan guardedly revealed his intentions to his father.
Dhritarashtra too desired the exit of his late brothers sons, but dared
Smt. Kanchan Mohan Honawar, Mahim
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not openly voice his intent. Duryodhan took his fathers silence to
be his consent and began implementing his foul plan. He summoned
his trusted minister, Purochan and asked him to construct a grand
palace in a town called Varnavat, which was some distance away
from Hastinapur. This palace was to have only one door for entry.
Purochan implemented his masters order to the letter. A grand
palace soon came into being at Varnavat. But it was constructed of
lac, wax, wood, oil, ghee, fat and other highly combustible materials. Duryodhan then ordered Purochan to proceed to Varnavat and
await the arrival of the Pandavs. He told Purochan, Win the trust of
the Pandavs and at the opportune moment set fire to the palace
while they are asleep in it.
Meanwhile, Dhritarashtras ministers had started praising
Varnavats beauty and its festivals in Yudhishtirs presence.
Dhritarashtra too suggested that the Pandavs along with their mother
Kunti should visit Varnavat for a change of atmosphere. Yudhishtir
and his brothers immediately understood that the Kauravs wanted
them out of the way. But they decided to go along with the plan to
uncover the real intentions of the Kauravs. Vidur too, sensed that
another sinister plot was afoot. When the Pandavs set out from
Hastinapur, Vidur warned Yudhishtir in coded language to be careful. Vidur also sent his own spies to Varnavat and came to know
what was being plotted.
The Pandavs reached Varnavat and met all the citizens of
that town. They then closely inspected the palace of wax that had
been specially built for them. It was apparent to Yudhishtir and his
brothers that this was Duryodhans trap to murder them all. The
Pandavs decided to implement their own strategy. Under the pretext of hunting, they ventured deep inside the forest and secretly
memorized all the paths. Bheem in particular, was extra vigilant.
Purochan was pleased that his plan was working.
One evening, Kunti and her sons were engaged in private
conversation when an unknown person approached Yudhishtir and
said, Mahatma Vidur has sent me. His suspicions about the plot
Shri. Satyaprakash Gupta, Dadar
!
Sahadev, Nakul, Arjun and Yudhishtir opened the door of the secret
tunnel and stepped down. Bheem stayed back. As soon as his mother
and brothers had reached the other end of the tunnel, he first set
fire to the room where Purochan was asleep. Bheem lit the room
from all four sides. The mighty son of Vaayu then proceeded to set
fire to the entire palace, which burst into flames immediately. Because of the combustible materials. In no time at all, the palace
became a raging inferno. Then Bheem hurriedly entered the secret
tunnel, shut the door firmly and raced away to join his brothers and
mother. Above, the palace burnt ferociously. There was no escape
for Purochan. He had planned to kill the Pandavs and make it look
like an accident, but was trapped in his own plot and died a horrifying death.
The Pandavs emerged deep inside the forest. All their efforts
at familiarizing themselves with the forest and its ways now paid off.
Vidur had arranged for another of his agents to ferry them across
the Ganga by a powerful boat. This agent took Kunti and her sons
across the river and returned to Hastinapur secretly. The Pandavs
then went into a much deeper and more dangerous forest. They
were walking very fast. They wanted to be completely safe from
Duryodhan or his spies.
Meanwhile, all of Varnavat suddenly awoke at midnight to see
the Pandav dwelling on fire. The citizens rushed to spot wailing and
screaming. Many tried to put out the fire by trying to pour water into
the flames, but it was to no avail. The flames were so huge and
spread such tremendous heat that no one could even venture near.
The fire raged all night and reduced the Lakshagriha (wax palace)
to a heap of ashes. It was only at dawn that the last of the flames
slowly died out, leaving behind a mountain of red-hot ashes and
charred remains.
After the fire died out, people started searching for the
Pandavs. Vidurs agent, the tunnel digger too joined in the search
and very cleverly, blocked the tunnel entrance with mud and ashes
so that no one could even guess what might have taken place. The
!
people saw that the fire had destroyed everything. All that remained
were seven burnt bodies. One was Purochans and as for the others, people could only identify them as a lady and five males. Kunti
and her sons were thus assumed to have perished in the fire. The
grieving citizens openly accused Duryodhan and Dhritrashtra for
murdering the Pandavs and their mother.
Hastinapur reacted as if struck by lightning when this grievous news reached the capital. Hastinapur loved the Pandavs dearly;
people openly accused Duryodhan of conspiring to kill his cousins.
The entire kingdom wept for Kunti and her sons. Bheeshmas grief
was beyond bounds. Dhritrashtra was secretly relieved that the chief
obstacle to his own sons ambitions had perished. But he made a
big drama of being sad at the demise of the Pandavs. Duryodhan,
Dushasan, Karna and Shakuni were of course, simply overjoyed.
They could not even hide their elation. Dhritrashtra carried out all
the traditional rituals for the Pandavs and gave away alms on this
occasion. Only Vidur knew the truth. But he too joined in all the
rituals and show of grief so as not to arouse anyones suspicions.
*****
14. Ghatotkach is born
The Pandavs meanwhile had penetrated deep into the forests. This was an area where no human being dared venture. These
jungles were the homes of ferocious beasts and Rakshasas (demons). Yet the Pandavs just kept going deeper and deeper into the
woods. They wanted to be as far away as possible from Hastinapur.
Yudhishtir said to Bheem, Bheem, you are the mightiest amongst
us. Your speed rivals that of the wind. Do therefore carry us on your
shoulders.
Bheem placed Kunti on his shoulders and clasped Nakul and
Sahadev to his sides. Yudhishtir and Arjun firmly clung to his mighty
thighs. The powerful son of Vayu now stormed ahead into the forest. His speed was like that of the wind itself. Tree branches and
trunks collapsed at the touch of his body, making way for them.
Bheem strode ahead in this manner for two full days. He strength
knew no fatigue, but his mother and brothers were now at the end
of their endurance. They had not eaten or even slept for days together now. Finally, they rested under a huge tree deep somewhere
in the forest. As soon as they set foot upon the ground, they dropped
off to sleep, unable to control their fatigue any longer.
A ferocious man-eating Rakshas called Hidimb ruled this particular part of the forest. His sense of smell detected the arrival of
humans into his domain. He ordered his sister Hidimbaa to find out
where these human beings were, kill them and bring their flesh to
him. Hidimbaa was just like her brother and quickly reached the
spot where Kunti and her sons were asleep. Bheem stood guard
over them. Hidimbaa was smitten by Bheems personality. His tall
and huge frame, broad shoulders and rippling muscular structure
and his handsome appearance captured her heart, She wanted to
marry Bheem. So, Hidimbaa assumed the form of a beautiful damsel and approached Bheem and pleaded with him in a sweet voice,
O handsome one! My brother Hidimb, who is the master of this
forest wishes to make a meal of you all. But I have surrendered my
heart to you after setting eyes on you. My demonic nature has disappeared. Marry me and accept me as your wife. I shall guide you
and your mother to safety.
Meanwhile, Hidimb, who wanted to feast on human flesh, was
getting irritated at his sisters delay in returning. He decided to go
and find out for himself as to what the matter was. When he saw
Hidimbaa in the guise of a beautiful woman engaged in sweet talk
with Bheem, he understood what the matter was. Roaring loudly, he
rushed at Bheem, who caught hold of the Rakshas by one hand
and dragged him to another spot so as not to disturb his brothers
and mother as they slept.
Bheem and the Rakshas Hidimb were now locked in a deadly
duel. Their roars shook the forest and also woke up the Pandavs.
They were surprised and disturbed at not finding Bheem there, but
!!
!"
*****
15. Bheem slays Bakasur
The five Pandavs and Mother Kunti entered a village called
Ekchakranagari and took shelter in the house of a Brahmin. The
Pandavs too assumed the guise of Brahmins and wandered the
village, begging for their daily food. While four brothers spent the
day out, one bother would remain in the house to safeguard Kunti.
The brothers took turns in this routine. One day, while it was Bheems
turn to stay at home with Kunti, both heard the sound of loud wailing
and sobs. It appeared that their hosts were in some deep trouble.
Kunti stood by the adjoining rooms door to try to hear what
was being spoken. At the opportune moment, she stepped forward
to ask them what the matter was, but the hosts were reluctant to
reveal anything. When Kunti persisted, the brahmin replied, sobbing, O virtuous lady! Ekchakranagari is a cursed place. A terrible
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back. It did not have any effect on Bheem. Bakasur now started
raining blow after blow upon Bheem, who held Bakasur down firmly
with his left hand and continued eating with his right hand. After
completely finishing the food, Bheem finally got up. He had decided
it was time to finish the Rakshas as well.
It was no contest at all. Bakasur, yelling and roaring, was hoping for an easy victim but soon found out that this newcomer was far
different from the helpless humans he had devoured earlier. Bheem
played with the Rakshas for a while and finally lifted him above his
head and brought him crashing to the ground. The fight had gone
out of the demon. Bheem broke his back and put an end to the life
of the Rakshas who had terrorized the innocent for long. He then
put his corpse in the cart and reaching the villages outskirts, placed
Bakasurs body at the gates. Bheem quietly entered the house and
narrated everything to his mother and brothers and the worried Brahmin family before going off to sleep.
In the morning, all of Ekchakranagari was simply stunned to
see the dead body of Bakasur, beaten out of shape. People gathered in crowds to see this miracle, scarcely believing that their small
town was at last freed from the Rakshasas reign of terror. They
started making enquiries as to who was their saviour. In order not to
become the focus of attraction of people, Kunti and the five Pandavs
hurriedly quit Ekchakranagari. They could not afford to be recognized by anyone.
*****
16. The Swayamwar of Draupadi
After leaving Ekchakranagari following the slaying of Bakasur
by Bheemsen, the Pandavs reached Utkochak Teerth, which was a
more secluded place. Very few people came there. Maharshi
Dhaumya, a leading disciple of Bhagwan Vyas met them there and
informed them that according to Ved Vyas instructions, he (Dhaumya)
was to be their chief priest. Acting according to his advice, the
Shubhachintak, Dahisar
!%
!&
them to beat a hasty retreat. The mighty Bheem also played his
part, uprooting a huge pole and scattering the attacking kings and
their guards like flies. Nakul, Sahadev and Yudhishtir safely escorted
Draupadi home. Karna, who had been rejected by Draupadi, fought
Arjun most bitterly, but he too had to retire, having failed to subdue
Arjun. Finally, Shree Krishnas intervention brought this encounter
to an end.
!'
"
*****
17. The Pandavs are married
The five Pandavs along with Draupadi reached home. Kunti
was inside. Yudhishtir called out to her, Mother, see what we have
brought.
Share it equally amongst yourselves replied Kunti still inside.
But when Kunti stepped out, she saw Draupadi dressed in
bridal attire standing beside Arjun. Kunti immediately realized the
mistake she had committed in uttering those words. She spoke to
Yudhishtir, who was the embodiment of Dharma. Son, I have spoken without realising the situation. But you know the shastras as
well Dharma. Find a way out whereby my words shall not be rendered false, at the same time ensuring that injustice does not take
place.
After a lot of deliberation, debate and arguments, it was finally resolved that all five brothers would marry Draupadi. Draupadi
too, agreed to this. Drupad sent a well-decorated chariot to the
potters dwelling where the Pandavs were residing, and summoned
them to the palace with due respect and ceremony. Dhrishtadyumna
gave them a grand welcome and took them to Drupad. Shree Krishna
and Balaram too were seated beside the king.
Yudhishtir addressed the king, saying, Maharaj! I am
Yudhishtir, the eldest son of the late king of Hastinapur, Maharaj
Pandu. These are my four brothers. The one who won your daugh-
*****
18. The division of the Kuru Empire
"
"
Duryodhan and my other sons. Let us forget the bitter events of the
days gone by and find a solution to this problem. I have decided to
divide the kingdom in two. You may take the territory of
Khandavprasth. Settle there and build a new kingdom and rule wisely
and well.
Yudhishtir agreed to this request of Dhritarashtra. On an auspicious date, the Pandavs, their mother and Draupadi left for their
new abode. Khandavprasth was the ancient territory of the forefathers of the Kuru Dynasty but lay abandoned for centuries now. It
was a dense forest area on the banks of the Yamuna, with no cultivation, infested with ferocious animals and robbers. Many noble
citizens, artisans, priests, learned scholars, and people from all walks
of life accompanied the Pandavs. Within a short time, the Pandavs
worked tirelessly to build a new and prosperous kingdom on the
desolate wasteland of Khandavprasth. They built a new capital and
renamed it Indraprasth ( Todays Delhi. The Pandav brothers are
the real founders of modern Delhi).
Indraprasth had huge impenetrable fortresses surrounded by
deep and wide moats with elaborate arrangements for its security. It
had wide and well-connected roads, well-developed markets, palaces with towering heights, beautiful gardens, natural places of scenic beauty in the vicinity of the kingdoms outskirts and was surrounded by dense forests. This new city and kingdom founded by
the Pandavs on the banks of the Yamuna was a heavenly sight to
behold. Their sheer enterprise created a heaven out of a dense
jungle. The arts and sciences, industry, trade and commerce and
above all, Dharma and spirituality flourished in Indraprasth. Artists
and scholars flocked to Indraprasth to prosper under the benign
rule of Yudhishtir. Learned scholars of the Vedas, rishis and munis
were pleased to live in this new kingdom. Indraprasth under Yudhishtir
soon became renowned for its prosperity, security and peace.
*****
"!
""
ons. He is great warrior and also the son of our own Aunt Kunti and
is entirely worthy of Subhadra. It is better that we bring both Arjun
and Subhadra back with dignity and honour and conduct their marriage with proper rites.
All agreed with Shree Krishnas advice. Yadav elders brought
Arjun back to Dwaraka with great honour and his wedding to
Subhadra took place in a grand manner. Arjun stayed for a year in
Dwaraka and then returned to Indraprasth after having completed
his twelve-year pilgrimage.
*****
20. The slaying of Jarasandh
Yudhishtir learnt of the Ashwamedh and Rajasooya yadnyas
conducted by great victorious emperors of yore and decided that in
order to formalize his status as an Emperor, a Rajasooya yadnya
must be performed. He put forth this proposal before the assembly.
His priests and advisors declared, Maharaj! No other ruler apart
from yourself is more qualified to perform the Rajasooya yadnya as
on today. Therefore, you may go ahead and perform this yadnya
without hesitation. But it would also be best to consult Shree Krishna
and obtain his advice and guidance before undertaking this yadnya.
Upon receiving Yudhishtirs message, Shree Krishna arrived
at Indraprasth. He wholeheartedly agreed with this idea but also
cautioned Yudhishtir saying: Although I dont foresee any opposition from the Kauravs or their allies, Jarasandh, the mighty emperor
of Magadh will certainly oppose our Rajasooya fiercely. Magadhs
strong and capable king, Brihadrath had no son. Once, a great rishi
Chandakaushik visited Magadh and blessed him by giving him a
mango that would yield an extremely powerful and valourous son
Brihadrath gave the mango to his two queens who shared one half
of the fruit each and later became pregnant. But alas! Each gave
birth to only half a male infant with one eye, one hand, half a trunk
and half a head, with both halves being born lifeless. Terrified, King
Brihadrath asked their attendants to throw the two human halves
outside the palace A Rakshasi called Jara smelt human flesh and
chanced upon the two halves of the infant. Curious, she joined both
halves and the infant boy came to life and started crying. The
Rakshasi took the baby boy and presented it to Maharaj Brihadrath
warded. Because Jara put him together, Brihadraths son came to
be named Jarasandh. He grew up to become a very huge, powerful
man. with awesome. Strenghth he is unconquerable by any weapon.
Jarasandh became the emperor of Magadh. To become immortal he is going to sacrifice a hundred kings. He has imprisoned
eighty-six kings till now. We have to defeat and slay Jarasandh. The
eighty-six kings imprisoned by him will be our permanent allies.
Jarasandh can be slain only in physical combat and only Bheem
has the strength to accomplish this. Therefore, myself, Bheem and
Arjun shall go and put and end to the evil Jarasandh.
Accordingly, Shree Krishna, Arjun and Bheem reached
Magadh in disguise and sought an audience with Emperor Jarasandh
and then revealed themselves to him. Shree Krishna spoke, O ruler
of Magadh! I am Krishna, son of Vasudev. These are Bheem and
Arjun, the sons of Pandu. We challenge you to a duel. Choose any
one of us. But it shall be a
--.f.
physical combat of wrestling
and will end only with the
death of one of the contestants.
'
,,c'~
Jarasandh
Said,
f ..
Krishna, you are not fit to
fight me. Neither Arjun is. He
chose Bheem. Jarasandh
then crowned his son I
Sahadev as Magadhs king J
r
and entered the arena. Both
were supreme experts in the
science of wrestling and
tested their superhuman
"#
"$
strength against each other. Their combat went on for thirteen days.
On the fourteenth day, Jarasandh showed signs of tiring. Sensing
that his end was near, Krishna picked up a blade of grass and split
it into two and threw them in the oposite directions. Bheem understood the signal, and picked up the tiring Jarsandh, whirled him
over his head many times and then dashed him to the ground. The
son of Vaayu then broke Jarasandhs back placed his foot on his
adversarys left foot and catching hold of his right foot, tore his body
in half and flung both pieces far apart in opposite directions. The
saga of the evil Jarsandh was over. Bheem emerged victorious.
Krishna immediately ordered the release of the eighty-six
kings imprisoned in Jarasandhs dungeon. They promised to render all assistance to make Yudhishtirs Rajasooya yadnya a success. Jarasandhs son Sahadev, formally coronated as Magadhs
next ruler.
were also invited and all were respectfully welcomed and taken care
of by Nakul. Yudhishtir welcomed each of them. Bheeshma and the
elders blessed him and wished his yadnya a grand success.
The Rajasooya yadnya now commenced in a serene atmosphere at the appointed hour.
*****
22. Shishupal meets his end
"%
"&
*****
21. The Rajasooya Yadnya
"'
#
*****
23. Duryodhans Envy
Bheeshma, Drona, Kripa, Dhritarashtra and Vidur blessed
Yudhishtir and wished him well while leaving for Hastinapur.
Duryodhan, however, stayed back for an extra day, but was overcome by jealousy upon seeing the grandeur and prosperity of
Indraprasth. In order to forget his troubling thoughts, Duryodhan
roamed the central hall of the palace, the Maya Sabha. This was a
breathtaking piece of architecture. The pillars of the halls were studded with precious gems and stones, the walls were set in pure gold,
doors out of rare crystal. There was an artificial pond with fishes
and lotuses in it. Then he across what looked like a beautiful floor
with an exquisite carpet. Duryodhan strode upon it, but the very
next moment, there was a big splash. He had fallen into a pond. The
flooring was actually a concealed pond designed to look like a floor.
His clothes became wet. Duryodhan hurriedly scrambled out and
tried to exit through a door in front of him, but bang! It was not a
door, but only an illusion of a door carved in wall. At this moment,
Duryodhan heard the laughter of Draupadis maids. as also a comment Sons of the blind are blind too from Draupadi fun of him.
Duryodhans anger was now at its peak. He left the same day for
Hastinapur.
Duryodhan now knew no peace of mind even in Hastinapur.
The prosperity of the Pandavs, their triumphant achievements, and
the respect that all kings and princes accorded Yudhishtir increased
his hatred for them. He had never liked them since childhood and
today they had become the rulers of the whole of Bharat. Hio own
future looked doomed. This was Duryodhans twisted way of thinking. He could not tolerate his virtuous and kind cousins who meant
him no harm.
Duryodhan vented his innermost thought before the scheming and evil Shakuni, Uncle, I cannot tolerate the rise of the Pandavs
anymore. Let us attack and kill them and snatch their prosperity.
Dont be absurd, Duryodhan. The Pandavs are invincible in
war. But I have another strategy. Let us invite Yudhishtir to a game
of dice. No one can conquer me in this art. Dharmaraj Yudhishtir
cannot refuse this challenge. His kingdom will soon be yours. You
only have to arrange for permission from our king, said Shakuni,
with a vicious smile.
Duryodhan then pestered his father Dhritarashtra to invite
the Pandavs to Hastinapur. Dhritarashtra was well aware of his sons
evil intentions, but was helpless in his blind love for him and agreed
to invite the Pandavs.
Vidur, the embodiment of Dharma and fair play, tried to dissuade Dhritarashtra from going ahead with this dangerous plan,
but his Vidurs repeated pleas were in vain. Fate had something
else in store. Dhritarshtra yielded to his sons evil insistence. He
also ordered Vidur to go to Indraprasth to personally invite Yudhishtir
for the game of dice. Vidur reached Indraprasth with a heavy heart
and frankly told Yudhishtir what had been planned. The Pandavs
were both worried and angry. Everyone knew Shakunis renowned
cheating skills in dice as well as his capacity for foul play.
But despite the fierce opposition of his brothers and Draupadi,
Yudhishtir accepted Dhritarashtras invitation. He said, It is improper
for a kshatriya ruler to refuse an invitation for a game of dice. I
cannot refuse to obey Dhritarashtras command who is in the position of a father to us. I shall do as he says. Shakuni cannot dare to
commit foul in the presence of grandfather Bheeshma, Guru Drona
*****
24. The fateful game of dice
One day after their arrival at Hastinapur, Yudhishtir, along with
his brothers, came to the hall where the game of dice was to be
held. Kings friendly to Duryodhan, his hangers-on, Shakuni and
Duryodhans brothers too were present.
King Dhritarashtra, Bheeshma, Drona, Kripa and Vidur along
with other Kaurav elders also arrived. Yudhishtir announced, I have
immense wealth at stake and shall consent to play only against one
who also agrees to stake similar amount of wealth.
To this Duryodhan replied, I too am not lacking in wealth but
my uncle Shakuni shall cast the dice on my behalf.
Yudhishtir objected to this. But Shakuni taunted him saying,
Are you afraid to play?
Yudhishtir could not bear to back out of a challenge and the
game of dice now began. The atmosphere was heavy with tension.
The first stake was Yudhishtirs. He said, I offer my priceless-necklace as stake.
Keeping an eye on Yudhishtir and twirling the pair of dice in
his palms, the venomous Shakuni cast them on the board. He then
laughed aloud and shouted, I have won, I have won.
Taken aback, Yudhishtir offered trunks filled with gold coins
as stake. The throw of dice again favoured Shakuni who shouted,
I have won again.
Shakuni, an expert in cheating and foul play, could make the
dice obey his commands. Yudhishtir went on offering all his wealth,
chariots, elephants, as stake. Shakuni easily won all of them. It
seemed as if Yudhishtirs self-restraint had deserted him. Like a
man possessed by evil spirits, he went on playing and losing in this
desperate gamble.
The Kauravs were thoroughly overjoyed. The Pandavs sat
with their heads hung. The Kaurav elders like Bheeshma, Drona,
and Kripa sat helpless, not knowing what to say. Dhritarashtra was
secretly very happy at his sons success, but tried hard not to display it. The wise Vidur got up and pleaded with Dhritarashtra to stop
this gambling contest from continuing further, but Dhritarashtra paid
no attention to him.
Yudhishtir, meanwhile, had lost all sense of reason. He now
said, I now offer my entire kingdom of Indraprasth, excepting the
Brahmins living it.
Your kingdom is ours, Yudhishtir, roared Shakuni. The dice
had done its trick again. Yudhishtir and his brothers were shocked.
The hall was stunned.
Yudhishtir then offered his ornaments and robes and also his
brothers one by one and lost each one of them. Finally, he offered
himself and lost yet again.
The entire hall sat speechless. Shakuni taunted Yudhishtir
and said, O son of Kunti, although you have lost even yourself,
you still possess something which you have not lost, your damsel
like wife Draupadi. But Yudhishtir seemed as if he was in a trance.
He wagered Draupadi too.
Shakunis dice obeyed him again. I have won Draupadi too,
he shouted aloud.
The Kaurav royal assembly was shocked beyond belief. The
elders sat with their heads hung in shame. The silence was such
that one could even hear an ant move. Fear and tension gripped
the air.
*****
25. Shree Krishna rescues Draupadi
When Shakunis dice captured Draupadi too as the gambling
matchs prize, Duryodhan shouted to his charioteer in his loud voice,
*****
26. The Pandavs depart for the forest
The world, it seemed to Duryodhan, was coming crashing down
on all his sides. He had trapped the mighty Pandavs, through deceit. And nownow those very Pandavs were completely free. Those
Pandavs would now be thirsting for revenge for humiliatlay Draupadi.
Bheem would not rest until he had fulfilled his row. Something drastic had to be done. But what?
Duryodhan and Shakuni hurried to Dhritarashtras chamber.
*****
27. Arjun obtains divine weapons
While the Pandav brothers and Draupadi were in the Kamyak
forest, Maharshi Ved Vyas visited them. Upon his advice, Yudhishtir
instructed Arjun to go to the heavenly abode of Indra, the king of
gods in order to obtain divine astras and shastras from the Devas.
Arjun set of for the Himalayas and reached the snowy
S. R. Paradkar, Mahim
Indrakeel Mountains. He immersed himself in severe penance, living only on fruits and leaves. One morning, an old and wrinkled
man appeared before him. This was Indra himself. After testing Arjun
and being pleased with his devotion and firm resolve, Indra revealed
his true form. Arjun asked his divine father for the invincible weapons of the Devas. Indra promised to give them to Arjun after the
latter worshipped Lord Shiva and obtained his grace.
Arjun immediately began penance unto Shiva. His tapasya
was very severe. Lord Shiva, Arjun to severe test by engaging him
in combat. Thereafter, pleased with Arjun, he his supreme weapon,
the Pashupatastra. also the power to achieve victory over any other
power, human, natural or supernatural.
After Shiva disappeared, Indra, Varun, Yama, Kuber and other
celestial Devas appeared before Arjun and gave him their respective weapons along with the complete knowledge of their use and
recall. Indra invited Arjun to heaven to receive other divine weapons. Accordingly, Arjun reached the abode of Indra.
Residing in Indras heaven for sometime, Arjun learnt many
secret weapons of the Devas. Indras Gandharv friend Chitrasen
taught him the art of dance and music. Arjun mastered these arts
too.
Arjun also had the opportunity to see the divine apsara
Urvashis dance in Indras assembly. He was struck by Urvashis
grace and beauty and gazed at her for long. Indra therefore sent
Urvashi to Arjuns palace. The captivating Urvashi arrived in Arjuns
room but he would not lift his eyes to meet hers. Instead Dhananjay
said, What can I do for you, O divine lady?
Hearing this, Urvashi was very angry, She demanded to know,
Whats all this Parth? The king of gods has sent me to you since
you were longing for me during my dance in his assembly. What do
you mean by this?
Arjun blushed when he heard this and said, O divine lady! I
respect you in the same way as I do my mother Kunti and Indras
wife Shachi. You are worthy of respect and worship. I was looking at
you the other day out of sheer respect and not with ay other intent.
Urvashi felt that Arjun had mocked her. She cursed him saying, You shall become a eunuch.
Arjun was highly worried when he heard this and approached
and told Indra what happened. Indra consoled him and said that the
period of this curse would not last more than one year. He also told
Arjun that this would be a boon in disguise as no one would be able
to recognize Arjun during the Pandavs stay in hiding during their
thirteenth year of exile.
Meanwhile, the Pandavs roamed many forests and holy
places, meeting rishis and munis and benefiting from their blessings. They then arrived at the Gandhamadan Mountains where Arjun
joined his family after his return from Indras heavenly abode.
The Pandavs were overjoyed when they learnt of the divine
weapons and capabilities that Arjun had obtained. They now possessed the power to fully avenge themselves of the insults and atrocities they had suffered over the years.
*****
28. Yaksha Prashna
Once, in Dwaitvan, the Pandavs were very thirsty on a hot
afternoon, having wandered far from their ashram. They rested
under a tree. Yudhishtir asked Sahadev to fetch water from any
lake or pond nearby.
Sahadev searched for a while and saw a clear pond nearby.
As he was about to touch the water, a voice spoke in a warning
tone: Stop. Do not touch the water. This pond belongs to me. Those
who drink water here without my permission will die instantly. Answer my questions first if you want to quench your thirst.
The surprised Sahadev looked here and there but could see
no one. He steeped forward to drink water, but once again the unseen voice stopped him. Sahadev then saw a stork at some distance speaking in a human voice. He ignored this being out of sheer
thirst and took some water in his hands to quench his parched throat.
The next instant, Sahadev collapsed, unconscious.
When Sahadev did not return even after a lot of time had
passed, Yudhishtir sent Nakul, then Arjun and finally Bheem. But
none of them returned to Yudhishtir. Worried, Yudhishtir himself proceeded to the place and saw all his brothers lying lifeless. He was
shocked and stupefied when he saw this. Who had done this?
But when Yudhishtir looked more closely, he was puzzled. Their
bodies did not bear any wounds or marks of battle. There were no
signs of anyone else having come to that lake. What had happened?
Yudhishtir was also extremely thirsty and proceeded to the
lake to drink a little water. Immediately, the strange voice stopped
him as well. Yudhishtir saw the stork staring at him and realized that
this must be some celestial or demon in disguise. He replied, Im
sorry. I did not realize that this lake belonged to you. It is clear that
you are no ordinary being. If you have indeed caused my brothers
to fall unconscious, you cannot be any ordinary stork. Put your questions to me. I drink water only after answering your questions.
The next moment, a yaksh (a certain group of celestials, similar to the Devas) stood in place of the stork. He asked various questions on Dharma, virtue, proper conduct and philosophy to Yudhishtir.
Yudhishtir, whose wisdom was legendary, answered them all effortlessly.
Some of these questions were Like this.
Yaksha : Who is real friend of a peison ?
Yudhishthir : Courage
Yaksha : What makes a person more clever ?
Yudhishthir : Company of great people.
Yaksha : What is more precious than the Earth ?
Yudhishthir : The womb of a mother holding the child for nine months.
Yaksha : What walks faster than air ?
Yudhishthir : Mind.
*****
29. The Pandavs go into hiding
The Pandavs completed their twelve years of exile, braving
many dangers and hardships. They decided to make Matsya, the
kingdom of King Virat the place of their thirteenth year in hiding.
Before they left for Matsya, they decided what guise each of them
would adopt.
Reaching a forest near the borders of Viratnagar, the capital
of Matsya, the Pandavs found a shami tree in a desolate cremation
ground. They tied their weapons in a bundle and placed it atop the
tree so that it was not visible. Then they proceeded to the capital to
see King Virat as per their plan of action.
Yudhishtir approached the king first in the guise of a Brahmin. He greeted the king and said, My name is Kank. I am an expert
in the art of dice. I also possess experience in advising rulers in
statecraft and can be of assistance to you. Virat employed Yudhishtir
as his minister and courtier.
The towering Bheem then approached King Virat a few days
later and told him that he was an expert cook and could prepare
delicious dishes. Bheem introduced himself as Ballav and also told
the king that he could entertain him by wrestling with elephants and
bulls.
Nakul then presented himself by the name of Granthik, an
expert in horses and their breeding. It was then Sahadevs turn to
seek employment as Tantripal, an expert in cows and their breeding.
Arjun then came to Viratnagar and introduced himself as
Brihannala. Arjun was in the guise of a eunuch, as Urvashis curse
was in operation for a year. He informed King Virat that he was an
expert teacher of music, dance and the fine arts. Virat appointed
him for teaching music and dance to the royal ladies, especially his
daughter Princess Uttara.
After everyone had moved in Draupadi approached
Sudeshna, Virats queen in the guise of a maid by the name of
Sairandhri. She told the queen that she was well versed in the art of
make-up and decorating
hair. Sairandhri also told
Sudeshna that she was
married to five Gandharv
husbands, who guarded
her unseen. Her Gandharv
husbands would kill anyone trying to molest her.
The Pandavs thus
found a suitable place to
complete their thirteenth
year of exile to remain undetected. Ten months
passed without any noteworthy incident.
Queen Sudeshnas
brother Keechak, was the
commander-in-chief of
King Virats army He was a strong man. He was an extremely cruel,
lecherous and tyrannical individual. The king was forced to tolerate
his wrongdoings because of his wife Sudeshna, who was always
partial to him. One day, Keechak happened to glimpse Sairandhri
and was instantly captivated by her sheer beauty. He started pestering Sairandhri to marry him and when his entreaties had no
effect, started threatening her. Finding her unyielding, he asked his
sister Queen Sudeshna to send Draupadi to his chamber under the
pretext of some work and then chased her. Sairandhri escaped his
clutches and ran towards the royal assembly with Keechak in hot
pursuit. In the presence of King Virat and his court, Kank and Ballav
who were also present, the drunk Keechak kicked her, causing her
to tumble to the floor. Bheem had to make a superhuman effort to
control his rage. Yudhishtir cautioned him using coded signs not to
do anything hasty and reveal their identity. There were but a few
days left of their period of undetected stay in their thirteenth year.
But Draupadi was in no mood to tolerate this insult. She secretly went to Bheems kitchen at midnight and woke him up and
poured her hearts grief to him. Bheem really loved Draupadi no
end. Both then planned that Keechak should be invited by Draupadi
to the dance hall the following night as the place would be deserted
after sunset. Bheem would go there in disguise and lay in wait for
the villainous Keechak.
The next day, Keechak was pleasantly surprised when he found
Sairandhri to be very friendly towards him. He was in the seventh
heaven of delight when she actually invited him for a secret meeting
at the dance hall after dark. Keechak was simply thrilled. At night,
Keechak reached the appointed place, highly eager to capture his
new victim. He saw a sitting figure fully covered with a very long
sheet of cloth. Thinking that Sairandhri was waiting for him under
that sheet, Keechak bolted the hall door from inside and rushed to
where the figure was sitting and grabbed it. Alas! It was not the soft
touch of any beauty as Keechak had imagined but the iron frame of
Bheemsen, who sprang like a mighty lion upon a helpless prey.
Keechak, though physically strong, was no match for the huge
Bheem. The son of Vaayu reduced Draupadis molester to a pulp of
human flesh, punching his body totally out of shape. He then threw
the mass of human flesh somewhere in the hall, quietly returned to
the kitchen and told Draupadi everything. She waited for a few hours
and then informed the guards and told them that her Gandharv
husbands had killed Keechak as punishment for tormenting her.
Next morning, all Viratnagar was stunned upon hearing news
of Keechaks slaying.
*****
of all, he was relieved that he was himself safe and sound and praised
Kank, Ballav, Granthik and Tantipal for having come to his rescue.
But another disaster had struck from the north. The entire
Matsya army had gone southwards to ward of the Trigart challenge.
The powerful Kauravs attacked the kingdom from the northern frontier. Virats son Prince Uttar alone remained to face this threat. Uttar
was still very young. In the presence of his sister Uttaraa and the
other ladies of the palace, he childishly boasted that if only he could
get hold of a proper charioteer, he would send the entire Kaurav
army packing all by himself. He boasted that he could defeat even
Arjun.
Sairandhri told him that Brihannala was an excellent charioteer as well. She had handled Arjuns chariot too. Brihannala was
ready and a chariot was ready to proceed to the battlefield. Uttar
picked up his weapons, donned armour to proceed with great pomp
and show. But when he reached the battlefield and actually saw the
Kaurav army, the young lads foolhardiness vanished. He jumped
down from his chariot and started running back towards the capital.
But Brihannala seized him and brought him back forcibly. She then
said, Dont worry kid. If you are afraid to fight then handle my chariot.
I shall do the needful.
Uttar was in no mood to listen to Brihannala. Let me go home,
he shouted. But Brihannala drove the chariot to the shami tree where
the Pandavs had hidden their weapons. She then told the prince,
Climb this tree and bring down the weapons of the Pandavs. Uttars
surprise knew no bounds when he first saw the renowned weapons
of the legendary Pandavs and then upon seeing Brihannala cast
off her appearance. It was not a she but a he. Arjuns period of
curse as a eunuch had ended. Uttar stood gaping with surprise and
joy. Arjun briefly narrated everything to him, picked up his mighty
Gaandeev and then blew his powerful conch, the Devdatt.
The Kaurav army that was proceeding towards them suddenly
froze in its tracks. There could be no mistaking whose bugle this
was. It was Arjun, no doubt about that. Argument began in the Kaurav
army that the Pandavs had revealed themselves before the thirteenth year was over. Bheeshma, Drona and Kripa were scholars of
astrology and clearly stated that as per the lunar monthly calculations, the Pandavs had successfully completed their thirteenth year
of undetected stay. Duryodhans evil gang of four was in no mood
to agree to this and wanted the Pandavs to go back into exile. Finally Bheeshmas statement settled the issue in favour of the
Pandavs.
Arjun was looking for Duryodhan who was meanwhile running
away from the battlefield. The huge Kaurav army that tried to obstruct Arjun was scattered by a never-ending shower of arrows that
poured from Arjuns Gaandeev. Dushasan was forced to flee with
wounds all over his body. Duryodhan was badly defeated. Karna
was simply blown Dronacharya and his son Ashwatthama were forced
to withdraw Grandfather Bheeshma, too fell unconscious after Arjun
used the Sammohanastra. Thus, the entire Kaurav army had been
badly routed. by Arjun single-handedly. He also asked Prince Uttar
to remove the upper garments of the Kaurav warriors as a mark of
their victory.
Arjun returned the chariot to the shami tree near the cremation ground and safely deposited his weapons. He re-assumed his
guise of Brihannala and strictly instructed Uttar to keep the events
of the day a close secret. He then took over the reins of the chariot
with Uttar in the main seat and both returned to Viratnagar.
Raja Virat meanwhile had already come back to his palace.
He was informed of the Kaurav invasion from the north and also
that Prince Uttar alone, accompanied only by Brihannala as charioteer had gone to meet the challenge. Before Virat could even recover his wits, news arrived that Prince Uttar had successfully driven
off the invaders and was returning to the capital in triumph. Virat
was filled with boundless joy at what he thought was the stupendous achievement of his young son. Just then, Uttar entered the
kings chamber. When Virat eagerly questioned him how he had
*****
31. Karna - the Great Donor
Karna was invisible in war as he had divine kavach and
kundals on him. He had sworn to kill the Pandavs to please his
friend and master Duryodhan, to whom he was indebted for life.
Indra, the king of celestials, wanted to deprive Karna of his
kavach and kundals as he feared that they would give Karna undue
advantage in battle and put the Pandavs at risk. Indra was Arjuns
divine father and Soorya (the sun) had fathered Karna. Soorya
guessed Indras intentions and appeared before his son and warned
him, Son, tomorrow, Indra shall appear before you to ask for your
kavach and kundals. You must refuse him.
*****
32. The clouds of war gather
After completing their thirteen years of exile, the Pandavs left
Viratnagar and moved to a place called Upaplavya in the Matsya
kingdom. They had successfully completed the conditions of their
exile. The time had come to demand their kingdom back. Their friends
and relatives arrived from all over the country for Abhimanyus marriage to Uttaraa, Virats daughter. After the marriage, Shree Krishna,
Balaram and other relatives assembled to discuss the future course
of action. Krishna proposed sending an emissary to Dhritarashtra
to demand that the Pandavs be returned their share of the empire.
King Drupad of Panchal said: Duryodhan is not going to quietly
return the Pandavs kingdom. As per my information, he has already started making preparations for war. Kshatriya kings and rul-
ers usually join them who invite them first. Let us therefore not delay for even a day
in inviting our allies and
well-wishers to join us. I
have no objection to sending our emissary to
Dhritarashtras court, as
Krishna has suggested. But
let us start making serious
preparations for war also.
Both sides spared no
effort to woo kings and warriors along with their respective armies from all over the
earth to join them. As coincidence would have it, both
Arjun and Duryodhan arrived in Dwaraka the same day to seek help from Shree Krishna.
Keshav was asleep upon his bed when both entered his room.
Duryodhan entered first and sat near Krishnas head. Arjun immediately followed him and sat at Krishnas feet in reverence. When
Krishna opened his eyes, he saw Arjun first, though Duryodhan
claimed that it was he who came first. But Krishna said that as he
had seen Arjun first, the latter had the right to choose first. Shree
Krishna then put forth his condition saying: I shall give my one
million-strong Naaraayani Sena to one of you. I shall join the other
side, but shall not take up any weapon. You are free to choose,
Arjun.
Arjun respectfully said: O Achyut! It doesnt matter whether
you take up arms or not, fight or remain inactive. I want you and you
alone, as you are. I have chosen you.
Duryodhan controlled his laughter with great difficulty. Arjun
had made a fools choice and had refused the million-strong Yadav
*****
33. Shree Krishnas peace mission
King Drupad had sent his family priest as an emissary to
Hastinapur to try and convince him of the need for a peaceful settlement. But Dhritarashtra evaded committing anything and instead
sent Sanjay to Upaplavya, instructing him to convince Yudhishtir to
forget the Pandavs rightful claim over their own kingdom.
But Shree Krishna, who was unbeatable in diplomacy, bluntly
told Sanjay: The greedy Duryodhan and weak-minded Dhritarashtra
do not seem to be in any mood to listen to good counsel and do
justice to the Pandavs. I shall personally go to Hastinapur and try
for a peaceful settlement to this dispute. If the Kauravs do not yield
and return half the kingdom to the Pandavs, then war will be inevitable.
As Krishna was about to leave for Hastinapur, he also carried
special message for Duryodhan from Yudhishtir: We accepted what
our uncle (Dhritarashtra) had given us without question and established the independent kingdom of Indraprasth. You must now return our kingdom to us as per the conditions of our exile or be ready
to face us in war. But I am also ready to settle for even five villages
to avoid war and bloodshed.
*****
S. R. Paradkar, Mahim
*****
35. The passing of Bheeshma
Fighting began with sunrise and ended at sunset on the first
day.
While under Bheeshmas command, the Kaurav army used to
march ahead, but was stopped by Bheem and Arjun used to halt it
in its tracks. Bheem ruthlessly slaughtered many of Duryodhans
brothers. Bheeshma caused immense loss to the Pandav army. Arjun
%'
*****
36. Abhimanyu becomes a martyr
After Arjun felled Bheeshma, Duryodhan was filed with fear,
though refusing to admit it. He appointed Guru Dronacharya commander-in-chief of the Kaurav armed forces with due ceremony.
Duryodhan also asked Drona to capture Yudhishtir alive. His plan
was simple. He wanted to use the captive Yudhishtir to bargain with
the Pandavs on his terms. After ten days of war, and the destruction
of many of his brothers at Bheems hands, Duryodhan had no confidence in any of his warriors that they would ever be able to beat
the Pandavs. Time was running out.
Drona tried on the eleventh and twelfth days to somehow capture Yudhishtir alive. The Pandavs were aware of the Acharyas
intentions and Arjun guarded Yudhishtir like a shadow. Leading
Kaurav warriors perished during these two days. Duryodhan, true
to his nature, abused his guru for failing to accomplish the task of
seizing Yudhishtir alive.
On the thirteenth day, the Trigart king Susharma and his brothers challenged Arjun to fight and drew him afar. Drona had designed
a Chakravyooha. Only Arjun, Shree Krishna, Pradyumna (Krishnas
son) and Arjuns son Abhimanyu knew how to breach this deadly
formation. Abhimanyu knew the tactic of entering the formation but
not its exit route. Yudhishtir and the Pandavs requested him to breach
the Chakravyooha; they would follow him inside and then smash it
from within.
Duryodhan, Karna, Shakuni and Kripacharya guarded Dronas
Chakravyooha in the centre. Drona himself stood at the opening as
Abhimnayus chariot rushed towards them. Their efforts were of little
use. Abhimanyu, piercing the Chakravyooha where Drona stood,
*****
37. Drona passes away
Duryodhans spirits were broken at the close of the fourteenth
day. Arjun had slain Jayadrath and the Pandavs had wiped out a
huge portion of the Kaurav army. As usual, Duryodhan vented his
anger on his commander-in-chief Dronacharya. The old guru was
enraged at this and said: You are most ungrateful, Duryodhan,
insulting me even though I am doing my best for your sake. I shall
now destroy the Pandavs or perish myself.
The battle continued even into the night with the help of torches
and flaming lights. It was an eerie and frightening night.
Duryodhans army also had many Rakshas soldiers who now
began causing havoc in the Pandav army. Yudhishtir was anxious
to counter this. Bheems son Ghatotkach, now stepped forward to
wage counter-warfare. Not only did he defeat and wipe out
Duryodhans Rakshasas, but also began destroying the Kaurav
army.
Soon, Ghatotkach single-handedly wiped out an entire Kaurav
Akshauhini. The Kauravs trembled at the ferocious detsruction that
Ghatotkach was causing. It was clear that unless something was
done to stop him, the Kaurav army would cease to exist by sunrise
next morning. But no one including Drona, Karna or Shalya could
stand before Ghatotkach.
Karna had obtained the Vaijayanti weapon from Indra in return for giving away his kavach and kundals. He had kept it reserved for use against Arjun, but Duryodhan and his brothers now
pleaded with him to use the weapon now to stop Ghatotkach. Karna
was reluctant to use it, but there was little time for thought. Ghatotkach
would indeed leave no Kauravs alive by morning.
Karna went forward to combat Ghatotkach and used many
divine astras against but to no avail. Ghatotkachs powers easily
disposed off Karnas weapons. Left with no alternative, Karna discharged Indras shakti upon Ghatotkach. It entered the giants body
in a flash of light and then flew heavenwards. Ghatotkach even while
dying enlarged his body and fell, crushing innumerable Kaurav soldiers, chariots, elephants and horses under him. Bheems young
son too became a martyr.
The Pandav army grieved at Ghatotkachs heroic death. Only
Shree Krishna was relieved as Karnas Vaijayanti was now gone
and could not be used against Arjun. Arjun now had nothing to fear.
It was now certain that he would eventually slay Karna.
After a while, the fifteenth morning of the war dawned. Acting
according to the promise he had made to Duryodhan, Dronacharya,
with scant regard for the rules of war, was fighting like a man possessed. He first killed King Virat and then also slew his childhood
friend King Drupad of Panchal. Drona then went about slaughtering
the Pandav army.
It was necessary to stop Dronacharya. But none could defeat
him as long as he held a bow in his hand. It was necessary to convey some bad news to him. Shree Krishna had a plan. If Drona
heard that his son Ashwatthama had been killed, he would break
down. Bheem killed an elephant of the Kaurav army by the name of
Ashwatthama, stood before Dronas chariot and roared: I have slain
Ashwatthama!
Drona was stunned when he heard this. But he could not easily
believe it and asked Yudhishtir, Dharmaputra, you never speak
untruth. Is what Bheem has said true?
Krishna had anticipated this. He had somehow convinced
Yudhishtir of the need to adopt strategy to achieve victory for the
sake of Dharma and the higher truth. Drona was after all, fighting
for injustice and adharma. There was nothing wrong in employing
tactic to put him out of action.
The ever-truthful Yudhishtir therefore said with a heavy heart:
Yes, Ashwatthama has perished. But soon added, Ashwatthama
*****
38. Karna is slain
After fifteen days, it was becoming clearer and clearer that
the Kauravs would soon be defeated. In desperation, Duryodhan
appointed Karna as his third commander-in-chief on the sixteenth
day of the war. Karna swore that he would slay all the Pandavs and
make Duryodhan victorious. But he was unable to achieve anything
substantial on the sixteenth day.
At night, Karna said to
Duryodhan: Arjun has a
great charioteer in Krishna.
Only Shalya, the king of
Madra can match Krishna in
charioteering skills. Order
Shalya to be my charioteer
and I can easily take care of
Arjun.
When Shalya heard of
Karnas desire, he was
highly enraged. Duryodhan
pacified him with difficulty
and got him to agree for the
task at hand.
Arjun continued to
speed ahead in his destruc-
tion of the Kaurav army on the seventeenth day. Slowly, the chariots of Karna and Arjun began to draw nearer.
Meanwhile, Bheem spotted Dushasan. He remembered the
game of dice and what Dushasan had attempted to do to Draupadi.
Bheem could no longer control his rage. He jumped down from his
chariot gada in hand and charged at Dushasan like a mighty tiger
springing upon its helpless prey. Bheems assault smashed
Dushasans chariot. The son of Vaayu picked up the trembling
Dushasan like a bundle of clothes and roared, See your hand that
dared touch the divine Draupadi. Bheem plucked out Dushasans
hand and threw it afar. He than brought Dushasan crashing to the
ground and proclaimed, Wretch! I now fulfil the oath I made thirteen years ago. Anyone who has the courage may try and stop
me. The giant Bheem than ripped apart the screaming Dushasans
chest and drank his blood like a lion feasting upon its prey.
Duryodhan fainted with shock when he saw Bheem fulfil his oath.
Ten of his brothers attacked Bheem but the son of Vaayu finished
them off in no time.
Arjun slew Karnas son Vrishsen before his fathers eyes.
Burning with anger, Karna attacked Arjun. Both warriors showered
arrows on each other and also began using their divine weapons.
All of a sudden, the wheel of Karnas chariot sank in the mud
and got stuck firmly. Karna got down from his vehicle to retrieve it
and requested Arjun not shoot arrows at him, saying it would be
against righteous conduct. Shree Krishna then mocked Karna, saying, Karna, it is surprising that you remember Dharma and right
conduct when you are in distress. Where was Dharma throughout
your life? Arjun, there is nothing wrong in slaying such people even
if they are helpless.
Karna pleaded, Krishna, I am unarmed at the moment and
on the ground. Attacking me now would be against Dharma.
Krishna replied in a stern, resounding voice, Oh really? So
now you remember Dharma when your own life is in danger. Where
did your great knowledge of Dharma vanish when you all tried to
poison Bheem and threw him into the river? While plotting to burn
the Pandavs alive at Varnavat, conspiring with Duryodhan to deprive the Pandavs of their basic rights in that game of deceit or
trying to dishonour Draupadi in publicly? Or when seven of you
killed young Abhimanyu with no regard for the rules of war? Arjun,
what are you waiting for? Dispatch your arrow and put an end to
this vile man, this embodiment of adharma!
Arjun obeyed the command of Shree Krishna and shot down
Karnas flag. Then he demolished his chariots umbrella and fixed
his third arrow to his bow. Dhananjay dedicated this arrow to his
penance, his merit and Shree Krishna Himself and loosened the
bowstring. The Gaandeevs sound was like a thunderclap. A flash of
lightning emerged from it as Arjuns arrow sped towards Karna. The
next instant Karnas head flew from his shoulders and landed afar.
Krishna and Arjun blew their conches in victory. The seventeenth
day of the war was over.
*****
39. The end of Duryodhan
On the eighteenth day, Duryodhan appointed King Shalya of
Madra as the commander-in-chief of the Kaurav army, or whatever
was left of it after seventeen days of incessant warfare. The Pandavs
were on the threshold of victory; the Kauravs, sensing defeat were
determined to fight to the bitter end. It was decided that instead of
individual combat, they would stick together.
Sahadev killed the remaining sons of Karna. He also sought
out and killed the evil Shakuni and his son Ulook. Arjun finally killed
Susharma of Trigart. Bheemsen slew all the remaining brothers of
Duryodhan.
Yudhishtir used a powerful shakti piercing Shalyas chest. After
Shalyas death, the remainder of the Kaurav army completely dispersed in all directions. The Kauravs had been decisively routed;
the Pandav victory was complete.
front Duryodhan.
Desperate after his defeat in the war, Duryodhan charged
towards Bheem. He was aware that this was his last chance. For his
part, Bheem remembered the suffering of the Pandavs all these
years and was also enthused with confidence by their stupendous
victory in the war. Bheem was huge and unmatched in physical
strength, while Duryodhan had put in more practice in wielding the
mace during the last thirteen years. Sparks flew as both clashed in
this deadly duel.
Arjun slapped his thighs to remind Bheem of his vow. Bheem
remembered in a flash and his anger now exploded. Duryodhan
had leapt in the air to avoid Bheems blows but left his thigh exposed. Bheem now brought his gada crashing down on his
adversarys thigh. It was like a thunderbolt. Duryodhan let out a
sickening scream Eeeeeyyaaaaaa and fell to the ground. Bheem
roared in triumph and stomped upon Duryodhans head to vent his
burning rage of the past many years. The victorious Pandavs blew
theor conches and left Duryodhan beside the lake. He had only a
few moments of life left.
The Pandav army returned to its camps. All warriors celebrated
their historic victory and rested for the night. Upon Shree Krishnas
advice, the five Pandavs spent that night outside the camp near a
river some distance away.
Ashwatthama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma had seen the victorious Pandav army depart from the Dwaipayan Lake where
Duryodhan was supposed to be resting. After the Pandavs had left,
they came to meet Duryodhan and saw him lying mortally wounded.
All three were sunk in grief; Ashwatthama burnt with rage and swore
to kill the Pandavs at night when they would be asleep. He forcibly
convinced his uncle Kripa and Kritavarma to assist him in his evil
plan.
It was very dark night. The three reached the Pandav camp
stealthily. While Kripa and Kritavarma stood guard at the entrance,
*****
40. After the war
The Pandavs returned to Hastinapur. They went to meet
Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, whose world had collapsed with the
death of all their sons. Dhritarashtra and Gandhari were inconsolable. The mother of a hundred sons and many grandsons was rendered childless. All this happened because of the evil of one man,
Duryodhan. She accused Krishna: Madhusoodan, if you had really
wished, you could have stopped this war and the destruction of the
Kuru Dynasty. I curse you that like me, you too shall be forced to
witness the destruction of the Yadav race.
I accept your curse, said Shree Krishna calmly.
Yudhishtir gently persuaded Dhritarashtra and Gandhari that
they should continue living in Hastinapur as before.
Yudhsihtir was then duly crowned as emperor of the Kurus to
the accompaniment of Vedic mantras. Bheem held the reins of his
chariot. Arjun held a royal umbrella over Yudhishtirs head. Nakul
and Sahadev stood fanning him.
Arjun had felled Bheeshma the grandsire on the tenth day of
the Kurukshetra war. He was now lying on his bed of arrows, waiting
for the appropriate time to depart from the mortal world. The
and started crying loudly. There was joy in the Pandav family. Shree
Krishna named the boy Pareekshit.
Yudhishtirs Ashwamedh Yadnya began on an auspicious day.
Arjun escorted the sacred horse and forced all rulers to accept
Yudhishtir as their emperor. After the Pandav victory in the
Kurukshetra war, few dared argue. Arjun returned victorious.
Yudhishtirs Ashwamedh Yadnya was a grand success.
*****
41. Lord Krishna winds up his incarnation
Dhritarashtra and Gandhari lived for fifteen years in Hastinapur
after Yudhishtirs coronation as emperor. They then desired to enter the vaanaprasth ashram. Kunti, Vidur and Sanjay too decided to
join them. All of them left for the forest. The Pandavs and the city of
Hastinapur grieved for them. After three years, Narad arrived to
meet the Pandavs. He informed them that their mother Kunti,
Gandhari and Dhritarashtra had given up their bodies in a forest
fire. Vidur had passed away earlier. Sanjay had become a sanyasi.
Yudhishtir ruled wisely and well for thirty-six years after the Great
War.
The Yadavs of Dwaraka had become intoxicated with power
and wealth and very arrogant. Strife and quarrels among them became an everyday affair. Once, during their community festivals,
they started furiously quarrelling among themselves. This soon led
to physical fight and bloodshed. Most of them perished in this manner. In Shree Krishnas presence, Balaram left for his heavenly abode
of Vaikunth using the power of yogamaya. Deciding to wind up his
avatar on earth, Shree Krishna sat under a tree in a yogic posture.
A hunter mistook his foot for the mouth of a deer and shot an arrow
in its direction. When he reached the spot, he saw what he had
done and was horrified. But Shree Krishna consoled him and left
his physical body to return to his original divine form. All the Devas,
Goddesses, Gandharvs, Kinnars, Siddhas, rishis and munis pros-
trated to the Lord and sang his praises as he left for His abode of
Vaikunth. The Kali Yuga began the moment Shree Krishna wound
up his incarnation.
*****
42. The Pandavs attain heaven
After Shree Krishnas departure, the Pandavs lost all interets
in life and decied to renounce the earth. They crowned their grandson Pareekshit as the emperor of Hastinapur and Vajra, the sole
surviving descendant of the Yadav Dynasty, as king of Indraprastha.
The Pandavs and Draupadi cast off their royal clothes and left
Hastinapur forever.
Yudhishtir walked ahead followed by Bheem, Arjun, Nakul,
Sahadev and Draupadi. Yudhishtirs pet dog too followed them
a f f e c t i o n a t e l y. T h e
Pandavs visited the eastern part of the country and
then turned to the south.
They then went southwest, westwards and saw
the city of Dwaraka submerged by the ocean after Shree Krishnas departure from earth. The
Pandavs then turned
northwards towards the
Himalayas. Crossing the
Himalayas, they went still
upwards to the divine
Meru Mountains.
All of a sudden,
Draupadi fell down lifeless.
When Bheem asked the
reason for this, Yudhishtir replied, She was partial to Arjun amongst
her husbands.
Sahadev fell next. Yudhishtir explained, Sahadev thought
himself to be the most intelligent on earth.
Nakul was the next to go. Yudhishtir said, he was too vain
about his handsome looks.
Arjuns turn came next. Dharmaraj said, Arjun was fond of
boasting of finishing all his enemies in a single day.
Bheem was the last one to fall. Yudhishtir told him, You are
falling because of your pride in your matchless strength, your excessive greed for food and extreme hatred of foes.
Yudhishtir was now alone. Only the faithful dog kept him company as he transcended the realms of human life and existence.
Finally, Indra, king of the Devas, appeared before him and informed
him that his brothers and Draupadi had already reached heaven
before him. Indra invited him to enter heaven in that very body.
Yudhishtir picked up his little dog. Indra objected, saying, Why are
so fond of a mere dog?
Yudhishtir replied, This dog has been faithful to me in my
final journey. I shall incur sin if I were to forsake it. I would rather
forsake the joys of heaven, but shall not leave this faithful companion.
The next moment, the dog vanished and Yama, the god of
death and justice stood in its place. Pleased, he said to Yudhishtir,
Dear son, you have successfully passed all tests and have emerged
supreme.
Following this, Yudhishtir bathed in the Ganga that flowed in
heaven and discarded his physical body to attain a divine one. He
saw his mothers, father, all his brothers and Draupadi, near and
dear ones. The Pandavs also could see Bhagwan Shree Krishna
being worshipped by the gods. In this state, they attained complete
bliss, having completed their journey on earth.
*****
Smt. Neelam S. Patil, Worli