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- Herausgeber: WS
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Serie: Mahabharata
- Sprache: Englisch
- Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024
From 5000 BC to 5000 AD – the same story unfolds in every home.
Experience the timeless drama and profound wisdom of the Mahabharata like never before. Crafted meticulously by Vikram Aditya, this 300+ page epic reinvigorates the ancient story with a compelling modern touch, making the complex themes of ethics and values not only accessible but intensely engaging.
Witness the clash of titans – Pandavas against Kauravas – as age-old grudges erupt into a battle that will redefine dharma (righteousness) forever. Experience the agonizing choices, the valiant sacrifices, and the unyielding will that fuels this epic conflict.
Step into a world where each chapter offers not just a story, but a profound life lesson waiting to be discovered.
"The Exile: Part-1" masterfully covers the first 50 percent of the Mahabharata's expansive narrative. Each chapter meticulously sets the pieces for the grander saga, "The Kurukshetra: Part-2."
"The Kurukshetra - Part 2" masterfully covers the remaining 50 percent of the Mahabharata's expansive narrative.
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MAHABHARAT
THE KURUKSHETRA WAR: PART - 2
VikramAditya
Copyright © 2024 by VikramAditya
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. For permission requests, contact [email protected].
VikramAditya asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.
The story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, and products is intended or should be inferred.
Book Cover by VikramAditya
Illustrations by VikramAditya
1 edition 2024
DEDICATION
Dedicated to my parents
Mr. POTHULA KALYAN &
Mrs. P JASMINE USHA RANI
who have always been my strength, my reason, and the purpose of my life.
I am deeply indebted to my beloved wife, Mrs. V. SATYAVATHI, who has been a pillar of strength and unwavering support throughout this endeavor.
Special Thanks to A.Vijay Anand Kumar
Why you should have this book in your home
In a world teeming with countless books, the Mahabharat stands out not only as a story, but as a catalyst for profound change. This is not just a book; it is a journey of personal transformation. If you seek positive change within yourself, if you wish to see a change in the mindset of your family members, 'Mahabharat' is the key.
As you delve into its pages, you are not just reading a story; you are embarking on a time-travelling adventure. The narrative is so vivid, so immersive, that it transcends the boundaries of conventional storytelling. It's an experience that puts the most advanced virtual reality equipment to shame, drawing you into a world where every scene, every dialogue and every character is alive with possibility and purpose.
This book is a mirror that reflects the complexities of life, the struggles between duty and desire, and the eternal search for truth and justice. It's a guide that illustrates how to face life's challenges with grace, strength and wisdom. "The Mahabharat is more than the story of an ancient epic; it's a blueprint for a life of purpose, courage and integrity.
Bringing the Mahabharat into your home isn't just adding a book to your shelf; it's inviting transformation into your life and the lives of those around you. It's an opportunity to connect with a story that has shaped civilisations, influenced cultures and offered timeless lessons to generations.
Yours,
VikramAditya
About the Author
Vikram Aditya, a name synonymous with inspiration and knowledge, emerges as a unique voice in the world of mythology and storytelling. A celebrated YouTuber with over 2 million followers, Vikram has captivated a global audience with his profound insights into history, mythology, science, and the myriad facets of life. His inspirational content has been widely acclaimed and resonates with a diverse and vast audience.
With an academic background as illustrious as his online presence, Vikram holds an MS in Medicinal Chemistry from the prestigious National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER). His academic prowess was highlighted in 2014 when he contributed to cancer research through his work on Rugulactone, published in the prestigious international journal Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters.
Despite his achievements in the scientific arena, Vikram's journey took an unconventional turn. After successfully entering the banking sector through the State Bank entrance exam, his innate passion for storytelling and connecting with people led him to create his YouTube channel, 'Vikram Aditya', in 2015. This venture marked him as one of the pioneering individual content creators in the infotainment category, particularly celebrated in the Telugu community for his captivating series on the Mahabharata.
The overwhelming response to his channel fuelled Vikram's desire to explore new horizons. Driven by a thirst for creative expression, he took the bold decision to quit his role as Assistant Manager at SBI to pursue his passion. His fascination with the Mahabharata, combined with his unique perspective, culminated in the creation of this 530-page book, a labor of love and dedication.
Vikram's rendition of the Mahabharata is not just a retelling; it's an immersive experience. His narrative style, accessible and engaging, makes the epic resonate with contemporary readers. The story, intense and gripping, promises to leave the reader spellbound and yearning for more. Through this book, Vikram Aditya aims to offer a piece of literature that will be cherished as one of the greatest stories ever told.
Vikram's journey from scientist to banker to acclaimed author and content creator is a testament to his belief in following one's passion and the power of storytelling. With this book, he invites readers on an epic journey through the pages of history, reimagined and retold through his visionary lens.
A NOTE
In attempting to write the story of the Mahabharata in my own words, I have intended that, unlike the various previous versions of the story, I wish to convey the essence of the story to today's society in relatively simpler terms and create a sincere interest in the reader to go further into the story and grasp the meaning of the myriad lessons of life through the story.
Some parts of the story may seem highly exaggerated. However, it has been established by certain scholars that several such incidents could have taken place at that time. For example, it has been reported that scientists have discovered faint traces of nuclear radiation in the region where the Kurukshetra war was fought, where the story tells of the use of high-powered Astras. So my appeal to you is that you read the story as part of our history, rather than questioning whether such things are possible. Perhaps it is impossible for such things to happen or be accepted in this age, but I want you to read the story with an open mind and believe that such things could have happened at that time. Read the story, learn the lessons of life through this epic and you will find that your life will surely feel enriched.
Please also note that the story presented in this book is primarily based on the Mahabharata as written by Veda Vyasa. In addition, I have incorporated elements from some folklore throughout India. While I have endeavored to make the narrative more engaging for the reader, it has been my utmost priority to preserve the soul and essence of the original epic. All improvisations have been made concerning the original story, ensuring that its core remains unaltered. I hope that this blend of tradition and creativity will enhance your reading experience.
Introduction
Rising from the depths of ancient India, the Mahabharata is an epic poem that has captured hearts and minds for millennia. Its intricate narrative, woven with threads of mythology, philosophy, and human drama, has captivated readers and listeners across generations, cultures, and continents. This comprehensive retelling of the Mahabharata seeks to reveal its timeless essence, offering a profound understanding of its characters, themes, and enduring significance.
At the heart of the Mahabharata is the intricate saga of two families, the Kauravas, and the Pandavas, locked in a bitter struggle for power over the throne of Hastinapura. Their rivalry, fuelled by greed, jealousy, and a thirst for power, culminates in the Kurukshetra War, a cataclysmic battle that engulfs the entire nation. Amidst the chaos and carnage, the epic unfolds, revealing the complexity of human nature, the interplay of Dharma and Adharma (righteousness and unrighteousness), and the profound wisdom that emerges from the depths of human suffering.
The Mahabharata is not just a story of war and succession; it is a profound exploration of the human condition, plumbing the depths of love, loss, betrayal, and redemption. It is a story that mirrors our struggles, triumphs, and failures, offering a timeless allegory for the challenges we face in life.
Throughout the epic, we meet a cast of unforgettable characters, each embodying a facet of human nature. The noble warrior Arjuna struggles with his conscience on the eve of battle and seeks guidance from his divine charioteer, Lord Krishna. The righteous Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, embodies integrity and adherence to Dharma, even in the face of adversity. The cunning and manipulative Duryodhana, the eldest Kaurava, represents the lure of power and the destructive potential of ambition.
The narrative of the Mahabharata is interwoven with philosophical discourses, most notably the Bhagavad Gita, a profound dialogue between Arjuna and Lord Krishna. This sacred text explores the nature of the soul, the concept of karma, and the path to spiritual liberation. It offers timeless guidance on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life, even amidst the turmoil and uncertainty of the world.
Beyond its philosophical depth, the Mahabharata is a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, rituals, and beliefs. It reflects the ancient Indian worldview, with its reverence for nature, its worship of gods and goddesses, and its adherence to the principles of dharma.
As we embark on this journey through the Mahabharata, let us open our hearts and minds to its timeless wisdom. Let us delve into the depths of its characters, contemplate its philosophical teachings, and appreciate its profound insights into the human condition. May this epic tale inspire us to embrace the virtues of righteousness, compassion, and selflessness, and to face life's challenges with courage and unwavering faith in the power of truth and justice.
Welcome to the extraordinary world of the Mahabharata, a saga that has captivated and transformed lives for centuries. May its wisdom light your path and enrich your understanding of the human experience.
REVIEW
Dear Valued Reader,
If the journey through the pages of my rendition of the Mahabharat has enriched your thoughts and added value to your life, I humbly request that you consider sharing your experience by leaving a review on Amazon. Your feedback is vital in helping others discover this story and in allowing the essence of the Mahabharat to resonate with more souls. Thank you for your support.
SUPPORT
Dear esteemed reader,
If the story I have told in Mahabharat has resonated with you and you believe in the value of such stories, I invite you to support my journey as a writer. Your financial contribution will enable me to continue to create stories that inspire, educate and entertain. If you would like to support my work and encourage the creation of more such books, you can make a donation by visiting my website at WWW.VIKRAMADITYA.LIFE or by contacting me directly at [email protected] for more information on how to contribute. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference and is greatly appreciated.
With heartfelt thanks,
VikramAditya
Contents
The Unstoppable Arrow
The time for war had finally come. On one side an army of 11 Akshauhinis supported the Kauravas, while on the other side, an army of 7 Akshauhinis supported the Pandavas. Both armies were ready to fight on the battlefield.
An Akshauhini is described in the Mahabharata as a battle formation consisting of 21,870 chariots, 21,870 elephants, 65,610 horses and 109,350 infantries. So, if you ask, an Akshauhini consisted of 218,700 warriors. The ratio is 1 chariot: 1 elephant: 3 cavalries: 5 infantries.
Meanwhile, at Krishna's request, a report had been prepared analyzing the strengths of both armies. The report gave details of how long it would take one warrior to kill all the soldiers of the other side.
Krishna read the report. The first name mentioned was Bhishmacharya. If he fought the battle alone, it would take him about 20 days to kill the entire Pandava army. Next was Karna, who would need 24 days, followed by Arjuna, who would need 28 days, and Bhima, who would need 32 days. As the account continued, the number of days increased to months, and so on. But at one particular name, Krishna stopped reading because the number next to it read '1'. It was not a year, a month, a week, a day, or even an hour. Krishna himself was surprised to learn that it was only a minute. Wondering if it was possible, Krishna closed his eyes and looked into the future with his supernatural powers. What he saw astonished him.
The armies of the Pandavas and Kauravas were on opposite sides of the battlefield. In just 50 seconds, every soldier in the Kaurava army fell to the ground, one by one. Blood flowed across the battlefield. Not a single Pandava was injured, but the entire Kaurava army was destroyed. Immediately afterward, however, the entire Pandava army was destroyed.
Nobody on the battlefield was alive except Krishna. Seeing this, Krishna snapped back to reality from his divine vision. Unable to understand how an army of 18 Akshauhinis could be destroyed in just 50 seconds, Krishna used his supernatural powers to look into the future again, this time more carefully.
He saw the Kaurava army before him. From the side where Krishna was standing, an arrow shot at great speed towards the Kaurava army. It struck the brave heart of Dusshasana, cutting him in two. The arrow then entered Karna's head from one side, exited through the other, and pierced Bhishma's legs, causing him to fall to the ground.
Seeing this brutality, a terrified Duryodhana began to run for his life. But the same arrow struck Duryodhana from behind, pierced his heart, and came out. Duryodhana's heart was stuck to the arrowhead. After killing Duryodhana, the arrow surprisingly started targeting the Pandavas, leaving Krishna completely confused.
Unable to bear the fear, Krishna opened his eyes and called to his guards, "Who is there? Go and bring forth immediately the man whose name is marked against this number, '1'". The soldiers went away saying, "Certainly, Master!"
Krishna was excited to hear about this great warrior who had killed both armies with a single arrow. When Krishna heard that the warrior was coming, he quickly came out of his tent and saw a warrior approaching, dressed in blue, holding a bow in one hand, a quiver with three arrows on his back, a sword at his waist, and riding a horse. These were the only weapons he had. As he walked confidently towards Krishna, his body looked like the perfect example of a warrior.
The warrior then touched Krishna's feet with utmost respect and said, "Sri Krishna! I am delighted to see you. My mother has the greatest devotion for you. She is one of your greatest devotees.
Krishna asked him, "What is your mother's name?"
He replied, "Morvi!
Are you Morvi's son?" Krishna asked.
"Yes, Krishna! I also belong to the Pandavas. My name is Barbarika. Bhima Sena's son, Ghatotkacha, is my father. I am the grandson of Bhima Sena. You have asked me if I am Morvi's son. Do you know my mother? Barbarika replied.
Krishna replied, "Yes, I know Morvi," and remembered his earlier encounters with her. Once there was a demon called Garuda who was a very close friend of the demon Narakasura. Krishna killed the demon Garuda, who had surpassed everyone in his demonic deeds. Morvi was the younger sister of Garuda. To avenge the death of her brother Garuda, Morvi waged war against Krishna. She fought with Krishna for three days, and Krishna was surprised by Morvi's bravery. Finally, as Krishna was about to use his Sudarshana chakra to behead Morvi, Goddess Kamakshi appeared and spoke to Krishna, saying, "She is my devotee. I have blessed her with immense bravery and wisdom. Leave her alone. Then she spoke to Morvi and said, "He is none other than the incarnation of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu himself.
Morvi fell at Krishna's feet and thanked him for not killing her, and from that moment on she became his devotee. Remembering this incident, Krishna asked Barbarika, "Can you destroy the entire army in one minute?
Barbarika replied, "It is very possible, Krishna. When Krishna asked him to explain, Barbarika replied, "By the grace of the Goddess, my mother acquired extensive knowledge of warfare, which she imparted to me from my early years. These three arrows I possess were given to me by Lord Shiva himself. With these three arrows, I can defeat countless enemies in the blink of an eye. When I unleash these arrows and enter a state of deep meditation, one arrow will remember all our enemies on the battlefield, another will remember the warriors fighting on our side, and the third will quickly eliminate anyone who is not on our side".
On hearing this, Krishna said, "I want to see your bravery. With the arrows given to you by Lord Shiva, split the leaves of this peepal tree in two". Barbarika agreed and aimed his three arrows and began to meditate.
The first arrow remembered all the leaves of the peepal tree. The second arrow did not work in this case because there was nothing on Barbarika's side. The third arrow went on to cut all the leaves in two, and then it came to the feet of Krishna and started spinning around His feet.
After the first arrow remembered all the leaves of the peepal tree, Krishna secretly kept one leaf under his feet. So for that one leaf, the third arrow spun around Krishna. When Barbarika opened her eyes, Krishna, pretending to know nothing, asked, "What is this, Barbarika? Your arrow is spinning around my feet?"
Barbarika replied, "Krishna! A leaf must have fallen under your feet without your knowledge. Please remove your foot immediately, otherwise, my arrow will pass your foot and hit the leaf.
When Krishna lifted his leg, the arrow struck the leaf that had been under Krishna's foot. Krishna appreciated the bravery of Barbarika and asked, "My dear, on whose side will you fight? The side of the Kauravas or the Pandavas?"
Barbarika laughed and replied, "I always fight on the weaker side, those who are on the verge of defeat, and thus help them to victory. This is by the promise I made to my mother; my arrows also work by the promise I made to my mother".
According to his words, since the Pandavas have only 7 Akshauhinis in their army of 18, Barbarika must fight on the side of the Pandavas, who have a smaller army. But the problem lies in Barbarika's words, where he said that he would fight on the losing side.
This effectively means that once Barbarika starts the war, his arrow will begin to destroy the Kauravas. But if 5 of the 11 Akshauhinis of the Kauravas die, the Pandavas' army will be larger than the Kauravas'.
Then Barbarika will start fighting from the Kaurava side, and his arrow will start killing the warriors on the Pandava side. When all the Akshauhini on each side have been killed, no one will be left alive on the battlefield except Krishna and Barbarika. So when the arrow turns towards the Pandavas, the Pandavas must be hidden to save them from the arrow's destruction. But even if Barbarika, who is in meditation, doesn't know where the Pandavas are, the arrow with its power will go to the Pandavas wherever they are hidden, just as it didn't spare a single leaf hidden under Krishna's feet. So even if Krishna himself wanted to save the Pandavas, he would not be able to save them.
So Krishna, realizing that this war technique was not right, asked Barbarika, "Barbarika! Do you have the same devotion for me as your mother?" Barbarika replied, "I love my mother. Since she is your devotee, I am also your devotee!"
Krishna then asked, "Then I need a word from you. Will you give me a promise?"
"Whatever you ask, Krishna, I promise to do whatever you ask," Barbarika replied.
Krishna asked Barbarika, "Before the war begins, I need a warrior's head. Will you bring me that head?" He further asked, "Tell me, Barbarika, whose head do you think I need?"
Krishna paused for a moment, went into his tent and came out with a mirror, which he showed to Barbarika. Seeing his own reflection, Barbarika realised that Krishna was referring to his head. Krishna said, "I need this warrior's head.
Understanding the request, Barbarika replied, "For the promise I have made, I will give you my head. But I have one last wish. Will you grant it?" Krishna replied, "I will grant your wish.
Barbarika said, "I have come from afar with great anticipation to witness the great battle of Kurukshetra. But now my wish cannot be fulfilled because of the blessing you are asking for. Please grant me the happiness of witnessing the entire battle of Kurukshetra.
Krishna assured him, "After you give me your head, your life will not end immediately. Your vision, intellect and speech will continue to function. Only when the battle of Kurukshetra is completely over will your life really end. Until then, I will place your head on a hill from where you can see the entire battle clearly.
Immediately, Barbarika drew his sword with one hand, held his hair with the other, and decapitated himself. He then gave his head to Krishna. Krishna instructed his soldiers to place the head on a hill, ensuring that a great warrior had made the ultimate sacrifice even before the battle had begun.
Krishna was deeply saddened by what had happened to Barbarika, but acknowledged that such sacrifices were necessary for the victory of righteousness. He recalled the events of the past few days that had led up to this moment.
Call for a Treaty
After four days of pomp and pageantry at the wedding of Uttara and Abhimanyu, several kings who had come as guests gathered in the court of Virata for light-hearted conversation. Dharmaraja, Drupada, Sri Krishna, Balarama, and others were present with their brothers. Looking at Dharmaraja, Krishna spoke to all those present.
"Lords, as you know, Duryodhana unjustly seized the kingdom of the Pandavas through a rigged game of dice orchestrated by Shakuni and his enchanted dice. As agreed, the Pandavas have completed their 13-year exile, including the year of Agnathavasa. Their devotion to the Dharma is known to all.
Dharmaraja, a man of unshakable integrity, would not accept a position, even as exalted as that of Indra, if it was contrary to Dharma. However, if a rightful claim is honored, he will accept it. Initially, the Pandavas acquired their kingdom justly, and they continued to expand it through the Rajasuya Yaga. Unfortunately, all their diligent efforts to establish their rule were undermined by Duryodhana's deceitful game of dice. Although Dharmaraja was aware of the fraudulent victory, he surrendered his kingdom. Throughout the years, despite enduring insults and humiliation, he harbored no ill will toward the Kauravas.
Both the Kauravas and the Pandavas have an equal share in the kingdom. Denying them their legitimate rights in such compelling circumstances could potentially lead to war. In such a scenario, the kings aligned with the Pandavas must unite under a single banner to confront the Kauravas. This may be our present need. However, we remain unaware of their intentions, so it is premature to declare war without proper insight. Therefore, it is prudent to send an able messenger to inform them of our intentions. If the Kauravas, guided by Dharma, return the rightful share of the kingdom to the Pandavas, all will be well. But if they refuse, then we must consider alternative measures.
Saying this, he sat back in his chair.
After much discussion, it was decided to send a Brahmin to find out what the Kauravas intended to do to restore the Pandavas' rights. The Brahmin went directly to Dhrutarashtra and conveyed the Pandavas' request. Dhrutarashtra seemed sorry and apologetic that the actions of his sons had led to the sad state of the Pandavas. He mentioned that he was unhappy that he could not control or restrain Duryodhana. Nevertheless, he said, justice must be done to the Pandavas. He told the Brahmin that he would visit the Pandavas in due course. Then he honored the messenger by saying that he would also send a reply through his own man.
Dhrutarashtra decided that Sanjaya was the best person to communicate effectively with the Pandavas about his intentions. Sanjaya was able to speak wisely in a court of intellectuals like Dharmaraja. So Dhrutarashtra sent Sanjaya to the Virata kingdom where the Pandavas lived. Sanjaya arrived at the court where Dharmaraja was meeting with his brothers, the king, and his advisers.
He said, "Dharmaraja, Dhrutarashtra has reached a point in his life where he does not influence his sons. He is unable to restrain them and deeply regrets the present state of affairs. He has sent me to inquire after your welfare and to convey his distress at the insult to Draupadi. He acknowledges Arjuna's prowess and Bhima's strength, but above all, he recognizes the paramount importance of upholding Dharma, much like yourself. He also recognizes your increased strength. But he asks a crucial question: What is to be gained by waging war at this time? Is it to kill your brothers and cousins? Is this what the venerable Bhishma sacrificed all for? What is the merit of mutual destruction? Is it justifiable to break the hearts of your mother Kunti, your uncle Dhrutarashtra, or your aunt Gandhari?
Dharmaraja, you, the paragon of Dharma, have you forgotten that Ahimsa (non-violence) is the highest Dharma? If war breaks out, it will not only cost the lives of the Kauravas and Pandavas, but also the lives of countless soldiers, leaving their families devastated, abandoned, and destitute. Are you prepared to take responsibility for such a tragedy? You know very well that war always leads to disaster. Therefore, I earnestly request you to look upon the Kauravas not as enemies but as brothers. This is the message entrusted to me, Dharmaraja.
After listening patiently, it was Dharmaraja's turn to reply. He said, "Sanjaya, your words are confusing and contradictory. You have extolled our virtues, praised our strengths and abilities, and censured Duryodhana's transgressions. Yet you frame your speech as if we were the ones actively seeking conflict. If the kingdom that is rightfully ours can be restored without bloodshed or loss of life, wouldn't that be in our best interests? We have consistently followed the path of Dharma and have no intention of instigating war. Nevertheless, over the years we have endured disgrace, insult, assassination, and a long exile in the forest. Your king never sent a single envoy to inquire about our welfare, even while we were alive. Now, on the brink of war, does he suddenly remember our family ties? Had he shown such wisdom earlier and curbed Duryodhana's transgressions, we would never have found ourselves in this predicament.
"Sanjaya, you suggest that we should refrain from starting a war. But the conflict between us has been going on for some time. I have worked consistently over the years to prevent it from escalating. In truth, the war began on the day of the fraudulent dice game, which culminated in the public humiliation of Draupadi as she was dragged by her hair in front of a crowd. That was the beginning of this war. Had I given the order, my brothers would have quickly defeated the Kauravas and their arrogance. But it was I who advised against it.
Nevertheless, I hope the people of Hastinapura know that we are alive and well. What is destined to happen will inevitably happen, beyond anyone's control. We will do what we can. Now I ask you to return. We will send an envoy to Hastinapura with our reply.
Sanjaya returned to Hastinapura with this message.
If war should come, the Pandavas themselves would be the victors. They have no fear of war. Bhima and Arjuna were eagerly awaiting the moment of war to crush the Kauravas. But they held back because of their elder brother. Even Dharmaraja knew that his brothers were waiting for the opportunity to take revenge.
At the meeting between the Pandavas, Krishna was present, and Dharmaraja made it clear that he had no desire to go to war against the Kauravas. "In the event of war, it won't just be the Pandavas and Kauravas who will suffer; hundreds of thousands of others will be caught up in the maelstrom. Those who depend on them will be utterly devastated. So I have decided to take a step back and make a decision for peace. We do not ask for half of the kingdom, though it is rightfully ours. We ask only for five cities etched with the memories of our ancestors. Should they accept this proposal, we can avoid a disastrous scenario where our mutual animosity leads to the mass destruction of innocent lives we have protected from harm," he said.
The Pandavas then fell into contemplation. They needed the right person to be sent as a mediator. They needed someone who could handle the situation carefully and tread carefully to deliver the message clearly and precisely. There could be no more delay in resolving the matter. It had to be dealt with immediately and a solution had to be found. At the same time, the messenger had to be protected from any harm from Duryodhana, which was very likely.
The chosen one must be wise, intelligent, extremely brave, and powerful - someone who could boldly enter the den of vicious wolves and return safely. Dharmaraja thought deeply for some time. As he began to narrow down his options, he finally settled on one person. The one who could speak his mind, who could inspire fear and respect in the enemy by his words and actions, who could courageously stand against all odds, and who could discern what was just and what was unjust - there could be no one but Sri Krishna.
Finally, Dharmaraja announced, 'Yes, our constant benefactor, the one who always knows what we need, what is good and what is bad, and the one who is more intelligent than anyone else, is Sri Krishna Himself. Therefore, my choice for our messenger and arbitrator would be the worthiest of all men, Sri Krishna himself".
Turning to Krishna, he said, "Krishna, would you convey our message to the Kauravas on our behalf and convey our offer of peace?"
"When Dharmaraja himself has personally requested me to undertake something so important, how can I even think of refusing? I will certainly go. But before I go to Hastinapura on this mission, I must ask you a few questions," he said, turning to Arjuna.
"Arjuna, you have undergone immense penance and hardship to acquire the formidable Gandeevaa bow and the mighty Pashupathastra. You have waited patiently for 13 years to avenge the wrongs done to you and your family. Yet you have remained silent all this time. What do you prefer: war or a treaty?" asked Krishna.
"Krishna, the unanimous decision of us brothers is to abide by the wisdom of our elder brother, Dharmaraja. We will follow his instructions," Arjuna replied.
Krishna smiled and looked at Bhima. "And you, Bhima? Do you remember the day when Duryodhana dragged Draupadi into a gathering of men to undress and shame her? Do you remember how he made her sit on his lap and arrogantly slapped his thighs? That day you vowed to tear his thighs apart, did you not? Now tell me, do you want war or a treaty?"
Bhima felt the blood rush to his face. He wanted to say, "Yes, I would very much like a war!" But he controlled his temper and said quietly, "Whatever our elder brother says, I will obey.
When Krishna asked Nakula and Sahadeva the same questions, they also gestured calmly, indicating that they would follow Dharmaraja's instructions and nothing else.
Finally, Krishna turned to Draupadi and addressed her with compassion. "Dear Draupadi, you have endured unspeakable insults and humiliations in the court. You were dragged by your hair and subjected to a horrible attempt to undress you. Duryodhana treated you as if you were his slave, which deeply offended you. Now tell me, what is your desire - do you seek war or a treaty with those responsible?
With unwavering determination and a fiery look, Draupadi replied, "Dear Sri Krishna, my husbands may have momentarily forgotten their vows, their bravery, and the grave injustice done to their wife during our thirteen years of exile. But I will never forget the heinous crime, the humiliation, and the shame to which those perverts have subjected me. How can a woman forget such a grievous offense? Duryodhana, Dusshasana, their hundred brothers, the elders who sat silently in that court, and all those who enjoyed my humiliation must be brought to book. I want their defeat, their death, and their bodies torn apart. I have vowed never to bind my hair until the day it is soaked in their blood.
She continued passionately, "It is a stain on our honor that this long-awaited moment, which I have longed for all these years, should culminate in a mere treaty. I speak honestly and openly, my lord. I do not want a treaty. They have provoked a war, and it is a war they must face. That is my firm position. I have no desire for a treaty. I have an ardent desire for war.
Turning again to Dharmaraja, Krishna asked, "Now think carefully and tell me again, do you desire a treaty, or are you inclined to war?"
Without a moment's hesitation, Dharmaraja replied, "Krishna, please hasten to Hastinapura and convey our request. Try to avoid the context of war as much as possible. Do your best to prevent war. But if they reject our proposal, we will seek your guidance and abide by whatever you advise us".
Sri Krishna’s Arbitration
Sri Krishna then began his journey to Hastinapura. Soon the news reached Duryodhana's ears. He summoned his guards and told them,
"Krishna's first step at Hastinapura should be on a path decorated with delicate, fragrant flowers. The air he breathes should be filled with the sweet scent of perfumes. Every street should glitter with the sparkle of golden ornaments, and a grand reception must be arranged, with beautiful virgins welcoming Krishna, whom we will offer as offerings. Once he experiences our unparalleled hospitality, surrounded by the beauty of our women and the opulence of our treasures, he may forget his role as the Pandavas' messenger and come to our aid. Let there be no compromise in this display of splendour.
Shakuni couldn't help smiling as he replied to Duryodhana, "Duryodhana, do you realise who we are dealing with? It is none other than Sri Krishna. Do you think that all this splendour and allurement we present will sway him to our side? It's highly unlikely. Let's wait and see what happens.
All over Hastinapura, the streets, promenades, plazas, parks and buildings were decked out in golden splendour. The place smelled divine with the fresh scent of beautiful flowers. Along the streets were hundreds of beautiful women dressed in their most beautiful attire, holding flowers in their hands, and musicians playing melodious tunes, all waiting to greet Sri Krishna. When he arrived and saw the splendour, he smiled to himself, well aware of Duryodhana's cunning plans.
Krishna noticed Kunti in the distance and when he saw her, he approached with a warm smile. "Aunt, how have you been?" he asked.
Kunti sighed and replied, "Krishna, how could I be? For thirteen long years, I have lived under the roof of those who have constantly conspired to harm my children. You should ask yourself how I have fared. I've been waiting for you to come. You are the one who knows what must be done and when. Please do what you feel is right in the name of Dharma.
"Aunt Kunti," Krishna explained, "I am here to prevent the possibility of war. Dharmaraja has the least inclination for war. However, I have sought the opinion of all concerned. As the mother of the Pandavas, your insight is vital. So please tell me, war or treaty?" he asked.
Kunti replied firmly, "Krishna, whether it's war or peace, it all depends on you. But when you speak to my sons, convey my firm stance. Dharmaraja's unwavering commitment to Dharma has brought us to this sad point. The other brothers will follow him, believing it to be their Dharma. The only one in our family who speaks her mind is Draupadi, my daughter-in-law."
"I implore you to urge her to heed her advice and follow her guidance. Only then can we hope for the best outcome for all." Krishna promised to do so and, after touching her feet, took his leave.
In the middle of the huge court, in the wide courtyard where hundreds of people had gathered, Krishna entered. As he was announced, all eyes turned to him, wondering what message he had brought to the kingdom.
Krishna looked around at all the elders of the Kuru dynasty, but he ignored them all and spoke directly to Duryodhana. "Duryodhana, abandon the idea of starting a war that will result in the death of hundreds of thousands of innocent people and the destruction of their families."
For a moment, Duryodhana was surprised. What did he mean? he asked himself. Was it Krishna himself who was making this request? Was it a dream? And for a moment he wondered if he should even consider the idea of war. Perhaps it would be wise to prevent it. He thought for a moment and crossed his legs proudly. Before he could answer, Krishna spoke again.
Krishna had a clear purpose in urging Duryodhana to reconsider the idea of war, and he began to deliver Dharmaraja's message straightforwardly. "They don't ask for half of the kingdom, which is rightfully theirs. Instead, they demand only five cities, including Indraprastha, where the memories of our ancestors are etched. If you agree to this, they will abandon their plans for war against you," Krishna explained.
Duryodhana's displeasure was evident, but Krishna continued. "Consider this, Duryodhana, if the Pandavas so desire, they could take the whole kingdom, not just half of it. Dharmaraja may emphasise Dharma, but do not underestimate the wrath of a virtuous warrior. If Dharmaraja is provoked, there is no earthly power that can withstand him. Your survival so far has depended solely on his adherence to Dharma. I urge you not to provoke the spectre of war," Krishna continued before anyone could interrupt.
Krishna then shifted his focus to Bhima, emphasising his incredible strength and temperament. "You are well acquainted with Bhima's strength and indomitable rage. Despite your many attempts to eliminate him since childhood, you have never succeeded. Bhima has the strength of a thousand elephants and could single-handedly overpower all one hundred of your brothers. It would be unwise to engage him," Krishna warned.
