The twelve children of a woman of low birth – 2

It was the fortieth day after Vararuchi had left the palace of Vikramaditya in search of an answer for the riddle: what was the best verse in Ramayana? Needless to say, that no satisfactory answer was found to that intriguing question of the king.

Vararuchi had roamed over the breadth and width of the country and even outside, meeting scholars of repute. None could give a good enough answer. If he could not return to the king next day with a proper answer what would happen to him?

That day the poor Brahmin could not find any house where he could satisfy his hunger and get the much needed rest. When night came the poet found himself within a forest. It was too dark to get to the nearest village. He was tired from long walks, and from hunger and thirst. He lied down under a palm tree and tried to get some sleep. But, as was customary, first he prayed to the guardian deities of the forest (vana devata) for protection.

Yet, sleep escaped from the tormented mind of the Brahmin. He lay down with thoughts of his bleak future. He had lost hopes of life itself. Slowly, because of exhaustion, the poor Brahmin drowsed off.

The clue

He was woken up in the middle of night by a conversation. The voices came from the top of the tree. “Welcome, friends. What brought you here?” “We are on a visit to the hut of the Paraya (of low birth) family in the next village. The woman is due to give birth. We are on our way, as it is our duty to visit the house and bless the child. Won’t you join us?” “Unfortunately, not. This Brahmin has prayed for our protection before he went to sleep. We cannot move away from this place until he wakes up. Do come this way on your return and tell us about the delivery.”

Vararychi was intrigued by the conversation. Obviously it was between the deities of forests, the hosts being the ones to whom he prayed for protection. His vast learning must have included the language (and sound) of non-human beings as well. Vararuchi, soon got into a light sleep again.

He was woken up later, towards early morning by similar voices coming from up the palm tree. This time the conversation went like this: “Are you already on your way back? What was the baby like?” “The Paraya woman has delivered a pretty little girl.” “That is wonderful. Who is going to marry her?” “This Brahmin, who does not know ’know me (maam viddhi)’ ”.


There was silence from the top of the tree after that . But, those brief words flashed the desperately sought verse in Ramayana in Vararuchi’s mind. “maam viddhi ? Of course, that indicates to the stanza in Ramayana which goes:”

“Think of Rama as (your father,) Dasaratha
Know me to be Seetha (actually, know Seetha to be me, because of the two nouns in the accusative case, me and Seetha)
Think of Ayodhya as the forest
My son! Go well”

(raamam daSaratham viddhi
maam viddhi janakaadmajaam
Ayodhyaam ataveem viddhi
gaccha taata yathaa sukham)

Those were the famous parting words of Sumitra spoken to her son Lakshmana (the brother of Rama) when he went to his mother to bid good bye. Dasaratha was the king and Rama was the eldest brother and the favourite of the king for the throne. He had two step mothers and three brothers. Kaikeyi was the youngest of the three queens and the the most beautiful. Because of her ambition in favour of her own son, Bharata, Rama was asked to go in exile into the forest at the instance of his father, Dasaratha, for fourteen years. Rama’s other brother, Lakshmana, wanted to accompany him and Seetha (Rama’s wife) to the forest. What Sumitra meant was that her son would survive the hardships of life in forest by thinking of Rama and Seetha as his parents and the forest as his palace, Ayodhya.

The clue given by the deities helped the wise Vararuchi to immediately arrive at the long sought answer to the king’s query. Of course, Vararuchi thought, this verse could be treated as the most important one in the entire Ramayana. He wondered why neither he nor any of the other scholars he had approached could think of it earlier.

Soon, it was dawn. Vararuchi could not wait any longer to rush to his king and report his chanced discovery on the very last day of the permitted period.

Meanwhile, Vikramaditya had been spending his days in palace with a heavy heart. There had been no news of his dear friend all those days. Finally, the last day of the time given to find an answer came. Vikramaditya was waiting anxiously in his court. Then he saw his poet friend arriving hurriedly. The king guessed from the beaming face of his friend that he was successful, at last, in his search.

The king asked. “Did you find out which verse is the most important?” Vararuchi recited the verse and explained the meaning and its implication. He further clarified that the most important phrase in the verse was “Think of Seetha as me (your mother)”, indicated by the “Maam Viddhi”. The king was very pleased and showered valuable gifts on the great scholar.

(To be continued)

The Ascension (Continued)

As Yudhishthira was recovering from the shock of the sights in hell he heard a voice coming from Indra, addressing him: “Yudhishthira, we gods are pleased with you. Do you remember the lie you told your teacher, Drona, about the killing of his son, Aswatthama? The noble Drona believed you and, grief stricken, gave up arms. You had to be in hell for that brief period on account of that. You are now cleansed of that sin and now merit a place in heaven where your great predecessors like Hariscandra, Bharata and Mandhata live. I intentionally created a false hell and showed your brothers and wife there. They are all enjoying life in heaven. You need not have worries about them.”

Dharmaraja also spoke welcoming words to his son. “Son, this was the third time I tested you and demonstrated your adherence to Dharma under all circumstances to the worlds. Take a holy dip in the heavenly Ganga now and abandon your body there. Its sacred waters will also cleanse your mind of all earthly sentiments like sorrow, hatred and envy.”

Meeting with his brothers and Krishna

Krishna was the first whom the Pandava king met there, after he abandoned his body. The Yadava prince was found holding his famous weapons and in the company of Arjuna. Krishna welcomed his cousin with all the love and due respect.

Yudhishthira, next, found Karna in the middle of the twelve suns (dwaadaSa aaaditya) and Bhima seated next to the god of air (vaayu). Nakula and Sahadeva were spotted by the side of the healers of heaven, the Aswinis.

In the presence of Draupadi

Yudhishthira was astounded by the sight of Draupadi shining even more beautiful than ever. Indra promptly reminded the Pandava of her birth. “Draupadi was the goddess of beauty (Sreedevi) before she took birth as the daughter of Drupada, at the express wish of Siva, and became your queen.” Indra alsopointed out to Yudhishthira the five sons of the Pandavas born of Draupadi in the middle of divinities in heaven.

With the Kurus

Yudhishthira continued with introductory tour of heaven, meeting others with whom he was close on earth, with the help of Indra. The king of gods promptly pointed out Pandu to Yudhishthira and said. “Your father pays me a visit every day, riding on his heavenly vehicle, in the company of his two wives, Kunti and Madri.”

Yudhishthira, similarly, saw his uncle, Dhritarashtra in the company of the Gandharvas. Bhishma was with the other seven Vasus and Drona was located shining next to Brihaspati, the teacher of the gods.

The conclusion of the story of Mahabharata

Thus sage Vaisampayana concluded the main story of Mahabharata. By then Janamejaya had come to the close of the sacrifice of serpents. He offered various gifts to the participating Brahmins and returned to Hastinapura from Takshasila (takshaSila) where the sacrifice was conducted.

At the end of the book there is a brief section about the benefits (phalaSruti) of reading the story. It talks of the various positive gains (puNya) and of the cleansing of different type of sins by the reading of the text. There is a separate section on the proper procedure, almost as a ritual, for the reading or listening to its reading.

Vedavyasa states in this context that the epic was compiled in the course of three years.

There is also a stanza called a Gayatri which may be taken as the essential teaching of Mahabharata. It says. “Never abandon Dharma because of lust, fear or greed or even for the sake of life, because, Dharma is eternal. Happiness and sorrow are not. The soul is permanent, not its cause (na jaatu kaamaa nna bhayaa nna lobhaad dharmam tyajed jeevitasyaapi hetoh/ nityo dharmah sukhadukhetvanitye jeevo nityo hetu rasya tvanityah).”

To the question of Janamejaya about the duration of stay of the Kurus in heaven sage Vaisampayana explained: “The stay in heaven or hell is the result of one’s actions in this world. The duration is determined by the action itself. At the end, ordinary souls take birth assuming new bodies and go through the cycle of birth and death until they attain salvation. In the case of many of the Pandavas they were divine souls taking human body for a specific reason. After enjoying their stay in heaven they returned to their original souls, as Yudhishthira did with Dharmaraja, Bhima with Vayu and so on.”

We may, yet, go through the essential stories from the next two books and try to get a gist of the final book as well, in due course.


Concluded

The Ascension

We have reached the last of the celebrated eighteen books of Mahabharata, “the book of Ascension to Heaven (swargaarohaNa parvam)”. The main story ends with this fairly short book, consisting of a single chapter. The Mahabharata, as it is found currently, has three additional books which are extensive. The nineteenth goes into the lineage of the Kurus starting from the ‘beginning of creation’. The twentieth is exclusively the life story of Krishna. The famous epic, Mahabhagavata, is built around that and has deeply inspired various forms of art in later years. The last one, the twenty first, is futurology, a statement of the order of things in the final of the four epochs (Yuga), of Kali. Let us remember that the Mahabharata war took place at the end of the third epoch, of Dwapara.

Meeting with Duryodhana

The very first person whom Yudhishthira met in heaven was Duryodhana. That was something the Pandava king had not bargained for. He exclaimed aloud to the divinities around. “I do not want to be in a place where this wretched Kaurava lives. It was the doing of this man that cost the life of thousands of innocent princes and ordinary citizens. Please show me the place where I can find my brothers. That is where I want to live.”

It was the celestial sage Narada who responded to the outbursts of the Pandava king. “Oh, Yudhishthira! Heaven is not a place where you retain enmities of the past life. You are probably not aware that Duryodhana is the centre of adoration for all the heavenly beings. What matters most is that he lived and fought like a true king (kshatriya) and, at the end, died fighting without fear. Forget all that happened between you and him in the past. This is not a place to entertain hatred or rivalry.”

Yudhishthira was not pacified by the words of Narada. “If this is the place for Duryodhana who was responsible for the destruction of his entire race, then where will my valiant brothers be living who adhered to truth and righteousness throughout their glorious lives? Where will I find Satyaki and the sons of Draupadi? Please take me to that place. And, where will I find Karna?”

A glimpse of Hell

As he remembered Karna, Yudhishthira thought about the irony of fate that made his elder brother align with the arch enemy of the Pandavas. He thought aloud that the war would have been even more easily won with Karna siding with his younger brothers.

When Yudhishthira expressed his keen desire to be with his brothers the gods sent an emissary to guide the Pandava to the place where they lived.

Yudhishthira was led along a dark passage that appeared to be never ending. Foul smell emanated from all around. Filth and rotting waste filled the spaces. Blood flowed from dead bodies that were scattered here and there. Vultures and crows were seen roaming in large numbers over the rotting bodies. Flies, mosquitoes and other insects swarmed all around.

Water and oil were found boiling in large iron pots to mete out punishment to the sinners. Yudhishthira was disgusted with the sight and enquired. “How far do we have to go to find my people?” To that the emissary of gods replied. “Oh, king! You have reached your destination. I have been ordered to wait until you have concluded your tour.”

Cry for help

Yudhishthira was already fed up with the disconcerting sight and foul smell. He wanted to turn back. Just then he heard strange voices. “Please remain a little longer with us. Your presence gives us comfort in our sufferings.” Yudhishthira could not see any one. So, he asked in surprise. “Who are you all, and why are you staying in this dreadful place?”

Several voices sounded in his ears in response. “I am Karna”, “Here I am, your brother Bhima”. “Please look at me, I am Arjuna”. Nakula, Sahadeva, Draupadi, and all those who fought on the Pandava side spoke all at once, mentioning their names.

Yudhishthira was overwhelmed by the irony of fate. All his people who lead exemplary lives, holding firmly to Dharma were suffering in the abominable hell. On the other hand, Duryodhana who was the embodiment of all evils was enjoying life happily in heaven. Was he dreaming or was he under hallucination? Was the sense of justice of gods so perverse as to punish the righteous and reward the guilty?

Yudhishthira made up his mind and turned to the divine emissary. “Please go back and tell those who sent you that I am not leaving this place where my innocent bothers and friends are destined to stay.” The words of Yudhishthira were reported exactly as was told to Indra, the king of gods.

The changing scenario

In the very next instant Yudhishthira found Indra and other gods, including his own father, Dharmaraja, appearing in front of him. Bright light filled the place removing the pervading darkness. The foul smell was replaced by permeating fragrance. Gentle breeze blew bringing temporary solace to the aching heart of the Pandava. All the tragic scenes of hell disappeared from the sight of the gentle Pandava before he realized what was happening.

(To be continued)

The fall of the imperfect ones

The five Pandavas and Draupadi, accompanied by the dog, completed one round around their kingdom and set forth to the north, in the direction of the mighty Himalaya mountain, towards their final destination. They found a sandy terrain looking like a vast sea and the legendary mountain, Meru, beyond that.

Then, Draupadi fell. Bhima realized that the queen of the Pandavas who had stood by them in all their sufferings had lost her life, before reaching the final destination. He asked his elder brother. “I am not aware of any wrongs done by this princess of the Panchala kingdom. Why has she fallen?”

Yudhishthira replied. “Draupadi always cherished a soft corner toward Arjuna. That was wrong on her part.” Bhima was reluctant to leave the queen behind. But, Yudhishthira walked on, ignoring the pleading looks of his brother.

Soon, Sahadeva fell. Bhima asked. “This innocent brother of ours served all of us with his whole heart. What would have caused his fall?” Yudhishthira replied. “He was proud that none equalled him in wisdom. He has lost his life because of that”. Again, Yudhishthira moved ahead without looking back.

Next fell Nakula. To Bhima’s question Yudhishthira remarked. “Nakula was too proud of his handsome features and always felt that no one else was equal to him in beauty. That has caused his downfall.”

It was the turn of Arjuna next. Bhima was surprised. Why his younger brother, highly respected for his right conduct even under adversity should fail in his final journey? Yudhishthira pacified his brother. “Arjuna was also too proud of his skills in battle. He had even proclaimed that he could finish all the enemies in one day. He had gone to the extent of belittling veteran warriors this way. That was his mistake”.

Finally, Bhima felt that he was himself on the verge of breathing his last. Before falling down he asked. “What wrong have I done to fail in our final mission?” Yudhishthira justified Bhima’s fate. “You often boasted of your own power and made fun of others who did not measure up to you.”

Yudhishthira’s trial

The Pandava king, then, marched ahead leaving his fallen brothers and his queen behind. At that time there was a thunder like noise all around and a chariot appeared from the sky right in front of the Pandava. Indra sat behind his charioteer, Matali, and invited Yudhishthira inside.

But, Yudhishthira remained outside with folded hands and said. “I do not want heaven without my brothers and queen. Please have mercy on them and take them with me.”

To that Indra replied. “Have no concern on that count. Their fall was only a simple punishment for the blot on their otherwise blameless character. They have already reached heaven ahead of you.”

But, Yudhishthira was hesitant even then. He said. “This dog has accompanied me in this journey from the start. Please allow it to come with me to the end.”

To that Indra replied. “Why do you bother about a mere dog when immortality awaits you? You are also going to become equal to me and you shall enjoy all the comforts of heaven.”

But, Yudhishthira stood firm. He said. “I shall not abandon one that took refuge in me, even at the cost of losing all the heavenly bliss.”

Indra was amused. He asked. “Remember that you had abandoned all your brothers and even your dear queen when they fell. Why do you now care for this little creature?”

Yudhishthira replied. “It was beyond me to give life to my brothers and queen when they fell down dead. what I left behind was only their body. But, this dog is alive and has come under my protection. Abandoning one who has taken refuge is as bad as the worst of sins.”

The True form of the dog

As Yudhishthira spoke those words the dog disappeared and in its place stood Dharmaraja, the god of Righteousness. He addressed his son. “I am very pleased with you. I had tested your sense of Dharma (righteous conduct) once before, while in the Dwaita forest. Your brothers, then, had drunk water from the lake ignoring my warning. You stood by Dharma at that time and answered all my questions correctly. You have won again this time. The world of the immortals is waiting for you.”

Meanwhile several other gods and celestial sages had appeared on the scene to receive Yudhishthira. They all welcomed him into the chariot of Indra. Sage Narada who was present, then, spoke. “Look at those heavenly abodes resplendent with all the wealth. You are going to live in one of those”. To that Yudhishthira responded. “I prefer to live in such a place wherever my brothers and Draupadi are.” Indra tried to make fun of Yudhishthira. “You are about to enter heaven. Why do you still retain emotions like love and affection as mortals do?” Yudhishthira did not care how he was seen by the gods. He wanted to be with his people even in the other world.

With this we come to the end of the book, “the Great Journey (mahaa prasthaanika parvam)”.

The final journey

We move on to the new book, “the Great Journey (mahaa prasthaanika parvam)”, consisting of one single chapter. It starts with the query raised by Janamejaya on what course of action the Pandavas undertook, after learning about the total destruction of the Yadava race.

In reply, Vaisampayana continued with his narration. Yudhishthira, on hearing the report of Arjuna, said: “Time is a great destroyer of everything. We all must realize that the time has come to take us also in its fold.” His brothers reflected on the significance of those words and nodded in agreement.

The new king

Yudhishthira has been thinking of retiring to forest even much earlier. Now he lost all interest in life itself. He did not waste time once he got the concurrence of his brothers. He called Yuyutsu to his side and spoke. “I want to install Parikshit, the grandson of Arjuna as the future king of Kurus. Think of him as your son and look after the affairs of state on his behalf.”

The Pandavas, first performed the funeral rites for their uncle Vasudeva, to their sons Krishna and Balarama, and to all other Yadavas who were their relations. Great sages like Veda Vyasa, Narada and Markandeya were invited for that occasion (sraaddha). They were fed with delicious food and offered valuable gifts.

The Pandavas, then worshipped their teacher, Kripa, and took his permission for their ultimate journey.

The farewell

Yudhishthira called the senior citizens of his kingdom to his assembly and announced the installation of the new king and his own immediate plan of taking the final journey of his life. There were tears in the eyes of those who heard the announcement. There was, at the same time, a refusal in their muted voices to accept what was inevitable. The Pandava stood firm on his resolve and impressed on the people that they should permit their kings to leave.

Draupadi had already decided that she would accompany her husbands in their final journey. The six of them, accordingly, abandoned their royal gears and changed into ascetic attire, wearing dress made of bark of trees. Then, they set forth on their journey.
It so happened that a dog followed them as they moved on their path. Yudhishthira accepted his new companion with compassion.

Thus, they came out of their palace on a journey very different from those they undertook twice before, first as refugees who escaped from fire in the house of wax and then, after losing all in the game of dice. They did not resent their fate this time, but, accepted it with open hands.

The citizens of the land thronged the two sides of their passage. No one could speak the words, “please do not go!”

Chitrangada, the Naga princess wedded to Arjuna, returned to her kingdom. Uloopi abandoned her body in Ganga and reached the other world ahead of her husband.

The Circumambulation

The six Pandavas, accompanied by the dog, proceeded first to the east until they reached the shores of the sea.

They found, at that time, a figure appearing in front blocking their way like a huge mountain. They, then, heard a voice addressed to them. “Oh! Pandavas, know that I am the god of fire. Arjuna, I gave you the Gandiva and the quill with an unlimited supply of arrows when you helped me to consume the Khandava forest. They served you well in your war against your foes. You do not need them any more. Leave them back in the ocean, to Varuna, from whom you received them.” Arjuna was sorry to part with his weapons that were constant companions all through his fight against powerful enemies.

Then, they proceeded to the south and then to the west reaching the seas forming the boundary of their vast empire. Finally, they traveled north thereby completing one circle around their vast empire. That was their way of worshipping the land that served them and all their ancestors. That was their unique way of bidding farewell to the land and its people, too.

The last days of Dwaraka (Contd.)

Arjuna started for Indraprastha in his chariot on the seventh day as planned. The ladies of Dwaraka followed him keeping Vajra, the great grand son of Krishna, in front. All others followed them from behind. There were Brahmins chanting verses from the Vedas and Kshatriyas and Vaisyas carrying all the wealth they had amassed. They travelled mounting on whatever animals- horses, elephants, camels or bullocks- they could find. A large number of them travelled on foot. There were so many in the group that it appeared like an ocean that emerged out of Dwaraka moving in the direction of Indraprastha.

As the people moved out of each part of the city the western sea moved in flooding the place with water. Soon, the entire Dwaraka went under sea spreading a veil, as though, over the glory of its past. The citizens turned back and saw with horror how their dear city perished as they looked on. They thanked gods for their luck for remaining alive in the face of calamity.

The attack

They stayed at various places on their way as the journey took several days. In the middle they had to pass through the land of ‘Pancanada’. They were traditional enemies of Yadavas. Finding a group consisting mainly of old men, women and children on the move protected by one lone man, Arjuna, the Pancanadas launched an attack from all sides.

Arjuna was furious seeing the impertinence of the enemies. He had his Gandiva in hand which had sent thousands of skilled warriors to the abode of Yama. In contrast, the Pancanadas were mere wayside vagabonds holding sticks in hand as weapons. Yet, they dared to attack a group protected by Savyasaci, one who could send arrows with his right and left hands with equal ease!

Arjuna gave them a warning to avoid a conflict. “Do not even dare to try facing me, if you value your life!” But, the Pancanadas did not take Arjuna or his Gandiva seriously. They started pulling young women and disappearing with them as it pleased them .

Arjuna was furious and started to tie the string to his Gandiva. To his surprise he found that he struggled to do the task which he used to do so easily even before an arrow of enemy reached him. He, somehow, got his Gandiva ready and sent a few arrows. But, the hero of the Mahabharata war realized that he had forgotten the secret of all his divine weapons. Even his ordinary arrows turned out to be without their usual power. Soon, his quill, reputed to hold an unlimited supply of arrows became empty. The Pandava was embarrassed with his own incompetence in facing an enemy that was just ordinary. As Arjuna watched helplessly, the enemies disappeared with a large number of Yadava women and most of the precious jewels the army carried. Finally, when Arjuna reached Indraprastha he had a much reduced group of Yadavas remaining.

Some of the wives of Krishna, including Rukmini, abandoned their lives embracing fire lit specially for the purpose. Others like Satyabhama retired to forests for meditation.

Meeting with Vedavyasa

Arjuna, in due course, installed Vajra as the king of Indraprastha. After a few days Arjuna went to meet sage Vyasa in his hermitage in the forest. Vyasa received him with love and enquired of his well being. Arjuna, then, narrated the tragedies in Dwaraka and of his own unfortunate encounter with the Pancanada people on his way back from there. He concluded saying, “Krishna, who was my friend, guide and well wisher has disappeared from my life for ever. Besides, I have realized that I have become almost an invalid in front of enemies. I do not know why I should continue to live in this helpless condition. You have been the guide for all of us throughout. Please advise me the right course of action.”

Vyasa listened to the heartening tales of Arjuna with composure. Then, he said. “Do not lament over the tragedies in Dwaraka or of the Yadavas. Krishna has left us after successfully completing his mission of incarnation, of destroying evil from this world. You also have done great deeds when it was expected of you. Your divine weapons have left you because they had served their purpose. Now, it is time for you and your brothers to move on to the other world.”

Arjuna listened to the wise counsel of the sage with reverence. When he finished the Pandava took his leave and returned to Hastinapura. There he recounted his meeting with Vyasa to his brothers.

We conclude here the “book of the iron pestle (mausala parvam)” which consisted only of a single chapter.

The last days of Dwaraka

Daruka met the Pandavas in Hastinapura and conveyed the news of the tragedy that took place in Dwaraka. The Pandavas were grief stricken. Arjuna immediately took leave of his brothers and proceeded to the city of his dear friend, Krishna, in the chariot driven by Daruka.

Arjuna was met by the loud wails of the wives of Krishna when he entered the city. The news of the death of their husband had, by then, reached them and immersed them in deep sorrow. They looked at Arjuna, the best friend of Krishna, with pleading eyes. Their lord had left them behind. There was none other than the Pandava who would look after them henceforth.

Meeting with Vasudeva

Arjuna went straight to meet his uncle (Kunti’s brother) and Krishna’s father, Vasudeva. He was already bed ridden with old age. The news of Krishna’s death had taken away any desire in him for further living.

Arjuna found Vasudeva in his bed with his eyes filled with tears. He wanted to get up and embrace Arjuna, but, was powerless to move. He simply raised his right hand and put it on Arjuna’s head by way of blessing.

The Yadava king addressed Arjuna and wailed over the death of his dear sons. “Look at the fate of my two sons who had defeated several mighty kings in their good days . I cannot bear the thought that I will not be able to see them any more. Those two dear friends of yours, Pradyumna (Kishna’s son) and Satyaki caused the destruction of the Yadava race. I have never heard Satyaki speak even a harsh word against Kritavarma in the past. It must be the curse of the venerable Gandhari and of the heavenly sages that made him speak in that manner.”

“There is no point in my going over these things any more. I am not going to live long after the death of my dear sons. Krishna has told me that you will be coming to take care of all those who are left behind. Take them with you to your place. This city, itself, is destined to go under sea as its protector, Krishna, has left this world.

Arjuna had to make an effort to control his own emotions. He managed to convey all that was necessary to be said in two sentences. “I also will not be able to live in Dwaraka without Krishna and you. Let me take the Yadavas who are left behind with me to Indraprastha.”

Arjuna’s preparations

Arjuna, then, asked Daruka to call an assembly of the prominent Yadavas who were still alive. When all gathered in the hall bearing the name of Sudharma he spoke. “I am going to take all of you, the people of Vrishni, Andhaka and the rest to Indraprastha. This great grandson of Krishna, Vajra, shall be your future king. It is told that this city, Dwaraka, of Yadavas is soon going to be submerged under sea. Collect all the vehicles and load them with whatever valuables you may have. We start on the seventh day from today when the sun rises.”

Arjuna slept in the house of Krishna that night.

The end of Vasudeva

The next morning brought the sad news that Krishna’s father had already breathed his last. That added one more tragedy to the heart breaking sequence of events. The four wives of the Yadava king, including Devaki (Krishna’s mother) and Rohini (the mother of Balarama) were grief stricken.

Arjuna had the added task of arranging for the cremation of his uncle, the lion of the Sauri race. The dead body was taken out in a procession in a vehicle that overflowed with flowers. Renowned Brahmins lead the procession chanting Vedic hymns in the front. The four wives of Vasudeva followed by Arjuna and others walked behind.

A funeral pyre was made ready at a place that was dear to the expired king. The body of Vasudeva was placed on the pyre and was lit. When the body was engulfed in flames the four wives of Vasudeva took permission of Arjuna and all others and entered into it, performing a Sati. It was a sad occasions for the residents of Dwaraka caused by the death of their king and of his queens.

Arjuna, keeping Vajra, the great grandson of Krishna, in front performed the last rites for the deceased. He also got the bodies of Krishna and Balarama and cremated them as well with due honour.

(To be continued)

The end of Balarama and Krishna

Balarama and Krishna

In Hindu mythology, the ultimate and formless God has been conceived taking form (for the purpose of creation) primarily as the triumvirate, Brahma, Vishnu and Siva. Vishnu exists always with his dual, the primordial snake Adi Sesha (aadi Sesha) with his one thousand heads. Adi Sesha is also known by the name, Ananta or the one without beginning or end. He is considered to be the king of the all the snakes in heaven and in the nether worlds. Vishnu is said to be mostly lying down on the coiled body of the snake on the “White Island (Sweta dweepa)” in the middle of the Milky Ocean (ksheera saagara). The snake holds his hood all the time over Vishnu as an umbrella. It is interpreted that Krishna was the incarnation of Vishnu and, his brother, Balarama, of Adi Sesha.

The scene in Dwaraka

Daruka, Krishna’s charioteer, was by his side when all this happened. He remarked. “Lord, almost all the Yadava men have been killed, including your son and grandson. Should we go to your brother and report the matter to him?” Krishna, without saying anything in reply, merely followed Daruka almost in a trance.

They found Balarama resting under a tree in a pensive mood. Krishna asked Daruka to go to Hastinapura and report the matter to the Pandavas. Arjuna should be asked to come with him to take care of the women and children left in Dwaraka. Daruka, drove the chariot to the palace of the Pandavas, in a dejected mood.

Krishna requested his brother to wait for him while he went to Dwaraka to meet his father. He, after reaching Dwaraka, bowed in front of his father and reported the carnage of the Yadavas to him. Then, he said. “Please wait for Arjuna’s arrival to protect the women and children in Dwaraka. I cannot live any more in this place after witnessing the death of all our people. Let me retire to the forest and spend time in meditation with my brother.”

There was a huge hue and cry in the palace when the ladies heard what all had happened and learnt that Krishna was leaving them behind for the forest. Krishna consoled them saying that Arjuna soon would be there to take care of them.

The end of Balarama

As Krishna reached the place where his brother was, he found him walking towards the ocean. He simply walked into the waters and disappeared, as though welcomed by the ocean in its fold. In the process he transformed himself into the divine form of the snake, Adi Sesha. All the divine snakes like Takshaka and Karkotaka received their king with all reverence. The sea itself turned into the milky ocean.

The end of Krishna

Krishna realized that the time had come for his own end. The purpose of his life was the destruction of the evil and the protection of the virtuous. That was already achieved. He remembered all the major events of his life on earth and the words of Gandhari cursing him to this tragic end. With his mind engrossed in such thoughts he lied down at the foot of a tree and got into a yogic trance.

At that moment a hunter by name Jara appeared at a distance. He was chasing a bird with his bow and arrow for his meal. He noticed something looking like his prey hiding in the bush which was one of Krishna’s feet. Mistaking that to be a bird, Jara dispatched an arrow that pierced all the way into Krishna’s body. When the hunter rushed to the scene to collect his prey what he found was the dead body of Krishna. The hunter was apologetic, but, Krishna had by then breathed his last and gone back to his own world, in the milky ocean. That was how, the life of the most illustrious characters in Mahabharata ended. Krishna, who was revered by gods and humans alike while he lived, and was the centre of attention wherever he was, died in a lonely forest unattended by any. The simple arrow of an ordinary hunter killed the one whose weapons, especially, the Sudarsana Cakra was capable of destroying all the worlds.

In his abode Krishna, in his original form as Vishnu, was received with all reverence and worshipped by the celestial sages like Narada.

The Carnage at Prabhasa

The day that was set for the pilgrimage to Prabhasa arrived. Many of the Yadavas had bad dreams on the earlier night. They saw vultures stooping down over the city in large numbers. Evil looking monsters were seen dragging the Yadava women away with them. They witnessed with horror scenes in which four horses pulled the golden chariot of Krishna and disappeared over the sea. Even the powerful discus of Krishna was noticed rising over the horizon and going out of sight.

All got ready the next morning for the journey to Prabhasa. Food in large quantity was loaded into carts drawn by bullocks. Such pilgrimages normally turned into occasions for enjoyment, too. So, various drinks were also included in the provisions. Unnoticed by the leaders, the prohibited alcoholic beverages were also carried in abundance. People travelled in chariots, on horse back or in whatever vehicles they could get into. After reaching the sea shore they got into the individual shelters made ready for the purpose.

Udhava (uddhava) was a great devotee of Krishna and pious by nature. He was apprehensive of the events to take place and took leave of Krishna and other Yadavas. Krishna knew in his mind that a disaster was imminent and did not try to hold Udhava back.

The quarrel

After performing the customary bath and rituals by the sea shore, the Yadavas got into feasting. Delicious food including meat of various kinds was served. Everyone, then, started drinking alcohol of various types, at first covertly and then openly in front of Krishna and Balarama. Krishna was by then resigned to the events in store and did not try to prevent the dangerous move of the Yadavas.

After the meal and drinks there was music and dancing. All forgot the very purpose of the pilgrimage by then and indulged into merrymaking.

Then there was that little spark that set light to the explosion. It started as an argument between Krishna’s best friend, Satyaki, and Kritavarma of the evil three (the three who slaughtered the sons of Draupadi and others at night) . Both were fully intoxicated by the time they got into their words of reprisal. Satyaki turned towards Kritavarma and said. “It was a heinous crime you, Oh Kritavarma, committed by slaughtering the innocent ones, including children, when they were deep in sleep. That too, after the war was over. Who, born as Kshatriya, will stoop down to such a low level? We, Yadavas, shall never forgive you for that.” The words of Satyaki brought nods of approval from all those who were around.

Kritavarma was angered by the unprovoked accusation and retorted. “What a fine Kshatriya you are, who chopped the head of Bhurisravas, whose right arm was already slashed by Arjuna and who had got into a Yogic posture, renouncing fight!”

Satyaki was furious when his opponent touched the weak spot in him. He narrated loudly the story of Syamantaka in which Kritavarma had played an evil role. Krishna’s wife, Satyabhama (the daughter of Satrajit on whom the trick was played), was enraged by the story and looked at Krishna pleading for revenge. Krishna ignored her. But, Satyaki took up the cause and declared. “I shall avenge the killing of the Panchala princes and the five sons of Draupadi by this evil man”. So saying, he ran towards Kritavarma. Before anyone could prevent him, Satyaki chopped the head of Kritavarma with his sword.

There were many among those assembled who were on the side of Kritavarma. They encircled Satyakai and in no time thrashed him into pulp with cooking pots and any other objects they could lay hands on.

What followed was total chaos. The Yadavas formed into two groups and started fighting with each other. First it was with fists and weapons they had with them. Then, some observed the new grown grass by the sea shore which stood strong and hard like pestles and handy for a fight. They started pulling the stalks of the grass and hitting the enemy with them. The innocuous grass turned out to be formidable weapons in the hands of the Yadavas. Each blow with it broke the skull of those who received it. Then, all rushed to grab the grass stalks and to swing them against the opponents.

Soon, the distinction between friend and enemy disappeared. Father killed his own son and the children killed their own parents. Brothers fought among themselves and met with death at the hands of their own brethren. Krishna watched the scene with dispassion and reflected how strong the hands of fate were. He, himself, pulled the grass and struck the head of any who he could get to. Soon, the holy place of Prabhasa was turned into a battle field where only dead bodies remained. Pools of blood developed in place of the holy waters. Among those killed included Krishna’s son, Pradyumna and grand son, Anirudha (aniruddha).

(To be continued)

Evil portents in Dwaraka

36 years passed after the war. That period of peace and happiness was interrupted only by the extraordinary end to the life of Vidura and the tragic death of Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti. Krishna and his brother, Balarama, spent these years quietly in Dwaraka ruling over the land of the Yadavas.

Then, bad omens started appearing in the Yadava city. Strong wind carrying dust and gravel blew over the city and its surroundings. Comets appeared in the sky and darted in all directions, setting the sky aflame on its path. Birds of prey were spotted circling over the city in anti-clockwise direction (apradakshiNa). The Yadavas reported that they observed rivers flowing in the upstream direction.

Parrots cried in shrill voices, “chee, chee”, as though frightened by unseen danger. Even the gentle swans imitated the deep throated noise, “hmmmm”, of owls creating fear in the minds of the people. Goats were reported to be braying, imitating donkeys. Rats multiplied in large numbers eating everything and chewing even the nail and hair of humans.

Animals started cross-breeding and giving birth to creatures unseen ever before. The normally law abiding citizens of Dwaraka stopped caring for the laws of the land and indulged in vices as it pleased them.

Dense fog appeared all of a sudden covering all the land and the sea. The sun itself was covered by dust for days in a row. The entire sky was engulfed in darkness even at midday, casting shadows resembling dead bodies without heads (kabandha) over the land.

It appeared, as though, the God of death started visiting every house in Dwaraka, unseen and yet creating fear in the minds of inhabitants.

There was panic throughout the land, fearing that a great calamity was about to befall in their midst. Krishna also observed the evil omens and remembered the curse of Gandhari. The predicted time had come for the end of the Yadava races, the Vrishni, Andhaka and all, and of himself.

Bad omens were also sighted in Hastinapura, nurturing fears in the Pandava minds.

The curse

Then, one day the celestial sages Narada, Viswamitra and Kanva paid a visit to Dwaraka. The long years of prosperity and the unchallenged power of the Yadavas had made them haughty. They cared for none, and spared none as targets for amusement.

The visit of the holy sages gave them hope for new entertainment. Some of the sons of Vasudeva (Krishna’s father) thought of a plan to make fun of the sages. They dressed up Samba, the son of Krishna born to Jambavathy (as retold in the story of Syamantaka in the Bhagavata epic, which we have not covered) as a pregnant girl. Then, pretending mock respect, they spoke to the sages. “Holy men, here is the pregnant wife of Babhru. You are wise men who see the future clearly in your minds. We are all eager to know what child she is going to deliver.”

The sages could easily see through the joke played on them and got into a rage because of the arrogance of the Yadavas. They said. “You, Samba, shall give birth to an iron pestle within the next 24 hours. May that be the cause for the end of your entire race!” So saying, the sages stormed out of Dwaraka leaving the stunned Yadavas behind. The matter was promptly reported to Krishna. Krishna knew that nothing could change the fate of his people. Yet, he thought that it was wise to take the necessary precautionary steps. So, he made a proclamation that there should be no intoxicating drinks prepared or consumed in any of the houses within the kingdom from that day. Alcohol was always the main cause for disaster.

The calamitous birth of a “baby”

Soon after the sages left, Samba found himself transformed, by a miracle, into a woman expecting a baby. He also got into labour pains to the consternation of all, and delivered an iron pestle on the very next day, exactly as predicted by the sages. Krishna could foresee the shape of things to come, and yet ordered the pestle to be chiselled into fine pieces and be thrown into the sea, which was carried out immediately.

But, the sin of the Yadavas, of making fun of the powerful sages, could not be washed away that easily. The next high tide brought all the iron filings back and deposited them on the sea shore at Prabhasa. Strangely, people who lived around the place found that fresh grass had taken root there. They grew tall and strong like huge pestles threatening, as though, the Yadava race with impending disaster.

Krishna spent his days in pensive mood ever since the time evil portents started appearing and the day the sages cast their spell over the city. On the fateful day as per his calculation, he suggested a pilgrimage to the sea shore at Prabhassa, thinking probably, that that was the way to keep the impending calamity at bay. All the Yadavas, young and old alike moved to the sea shore at Prabhasa to take a holy dip in the sea there. They went with all the preparations for making food for the day.

(To be continued)

The Death of Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti

We are now into the new chapter, “the arrival of Narada (naaradaagamana parvam)”.

Two years passed after the Pandavas returned to Hastinapura, taking leave of their parents in the forest. One day sage Narada arrived quite unexpectedly in the palace. Yudhishthira received him with all reverence and asked. “It is a long time since we last saw you. Hope, you are keeping well. To which places you have been recently? What can I do for you?”

Narada replied. “I came here just because of that, thinking that I have not met you for a long time. I have been roaming through various holy places, including river Ganga.”

Yudhishthira prompted the sage further. “Some of my subjects living close to the Ganga told me that my uncle has been engaged in severe penances. Did you happen to meet him, my aunt Gandhari and mother Kunti? Have you any news of Sanjaya?”

Narada replied. “Listen to what I have to say with a composed mind. I am going to repeat what I have directly seen or reliably heard from others, exactly as they happened. Your uncle gradually got into the life of a Yati, sustaining life just by breathing. His queen lived merely by drinking water. Your mother ate only once a month. Sanjaya was also engaged in similar austerities.”

“Once the king bathed in the waters of Ganga and started walking towards his hermitage. His queen, your mother and Sanjaya were with him for support. At that time there was a strong wind that blew and wild fire engulfed the place all of a sudden. Birds and animals started burning down in large numbers. Your uncle, sensing the danger asked Sanjaya to escape. He said that the three of them gladly would embrace death in the fire. Sanjaya, though desperate, could not suggest a way of saving the aged king and queens from the fire that was fast approaching. There was only one thing for them to do. He asked them to get into a yogic trance and take full control of all bodily senses so that they would not feel any pain. Sanjaya, after prostrating before the king and queens, quickly got out of the fire. The king and the queens perished in the fire soon after. Sanjaya narrated the incident to the ascetics outside and went to the Himalayas for further penance. Do not grieve for your parents. They all have been waiting eagerly for the end of their lives and have welcomed the fire with open arms.”

The Pandavas were immersed in sorrow hearing the tragic end to the aged king and the queens. So was the entire kingdom of Kurus. Yudhishthira wailed, addressing the heavenly sage. “How sad is the plight of human beings! My uncle, though blind, was as strong as thousand elephants. My aunt gave birth to a hundred sons. Yet, they died helplessly, caught in forest fire. They used to enjoy the breeze from the Vyajana (a fan made of peacock feathers), fanned by beautiful women of the palace. Yet, the flapping of wings by eagles would have blown the wind on their faces at the time of death.”

“I think of my own mother who, instead of enjoying all the wealth earned by her sons, chose go to the forest and meet her end this way. In vain was the help Arjuna offered to the god of fire by helping Him to consume the entire Khandava forest. Look at the way Arjuna was repaid, by engulfing his own mother in flames. Did she cry caught in the danger, calling the name of each of us in turn?” Yudhishthira let out his intense sorrow by speaking in this way for a while.

Narada heard him with compassion to the end and then said. “What I heard is that their end was not that accidental. The three of them were waiting, as though, for death with open arms. Then, on the day the tragedy took place, the sages who have been performing the rituals left the fire in the forest unattended. Remember that it was the same fire the king used for worship from the day of his wedding and which he carried with him into the forest. So, we must take it that he has cremated his own body and that of the queens. (Note: The fire from the wedding ritual or Homa is carried home, worshipped every day, morning and evening, and kept going until death. It is the same fire that is used to light the funeral pyre). In that sense they have met natural deaths. Instead of spending time mourning, get down to the task of performing their last rites.”

Yudhishthira, accordingly, went to the shores of Ganga with his brothers and queens, keeping Yuyulsu in the front, all wearing single piece of cloths (as is customary for all rituals, especially, at funerals). Then, they offered ritual water (udaka kriya) for their parents. During the period of mourning (aaSaouca) they all stayed outside the palace (as per the custom). On the twelfth day, at the end of the period of mourning, the king gave liberal gifts (Sraaddha) to Brahmins and to others by way of charity. He also got the final ritual of burying the ashes (asthi sancayana) performed for his parents.

We come to the end of the present chapter, “the arrival of Narada (naaradaagamana parvam)” and of the book of “life in hermitage (aaSrama vaasa parvam)”.

Meeting with the dead heroes

We start now the new chapter titled, “the meeting with the Sons (putra darSana parvam)”.

Vedavyasa concluded the story of Vidura. He must have sensed the loss of the saintly Vidura felt by his family members. He also would have guessed the general melancholic mood that prevailed with the thought of the dead war heroes. That must have prompted the great sage to offer the Pandavas and their aged uncle and aunt to fulfill whatever they desired.

Sage Narada also happened to come there at that time in the company of other celestial sages. Dhritarashtra received his divine guests with all reverence and offered them seats and refreshments. When all the new comers were properly seated Vedavyasa turned to the blind Dhritarashtra and repeated his offer. But, the aged king only lamented over the foolishness on the part of his sons that resulted in the disastrous war.

Gandhari, who was aggrieved by the sad news of Vidura’s end, was saddened even further listening to her husband’s words. She spoke to the sage. “We have spent sixteen years this way. My husband continues to mourn over the tragic loss of our sons even after retiring to the forest. You have all the powers in you to bring before us even those who live in other worlds. It is clear that what the king wants most is to see his sons again, just for once. That is what I desire, too. I am sure that Kunti, Subhadra and all other Pandava queens will have similar wishes which they have not spoken out.”

Vyasa, then, turned to Kunti and asked what she had in mind. The queen of Pandu, then, with a lot of hesitation spoke about the birth of her first son, Karna, when she was just a maiden. She lamented over her ill fate which made her discard him at birth that resulted in all the tragedies. The sage consoled the Pandava queen that she had acted as per the circumstance and should not repent over that. He revealed the past life of all the veterans, of which we are familiar with that of the Pandavas . Vyasa said that the deity of the third epoch, Dwapara (dwaapara), took birth as Sakuni. Duryodhana was the incarnation of the deity of the fourth epoch, Kali. (The pair, Kali and Dwapara, had played a vital and notorious role in the story of Nala and Damayanti, which we have already covered).

Vyasa concluded the narration of the past life (amSa kathanam) of the Pandavas and Kauravas and said. “The time has come for you to meet the dead heroes of the war in person and get over your sorrow. Come to the shores of Ganga this night”.

The announcement of Vyasa brought cheers in the minds of all. They waited with heavy expectation for the night to fall. Then all, including Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Kunti and the Pandavas proceeded to the Ganga. They performed the evening prayers after bathing in the sacred waters of the river and waited for the miracle to happen.

Vyasa, who was waiting for the appropriate time for action, walked down into the river and called out to all who were killed in the war to rise and come out. There was a big noise at that time that arose from the waters of Ganga. All saw the veteran Bhishma and Drona come out alive accompanied by their huge army of soldiers who had died fighting the war. Karna, Duryodhana and all his brothers also materialized in person. So did the sons of Draupadi and all the Panchala princes. Each came out mounted on his own horse or in chariot, carrying his mast and other decorations.

Vyasa gave temporary sight to Dhritarashtra, and to Gandhari to see all without removing her blindfold. The war veterans arose with the glow of divinities appearing in person. Gandharvas appeared on the scene singing divine songs and the Apsara women danced to the tune.

Wives met their husbands and parents met their children. Arch enemies in war met each other as good friends, forgetting the past. All forgot that they had ever separated and enjoyed the night in the company of their dear ones. At day break those who came by the power of Vyasa knew that the time had arrived for them to depart. So, they started bidding farewell to their relations. They embraced each other and went back to the Ganga one by one and in groups. As everyone watched in surprise, those who were in their midst in body and soul sank into the waters of the holy river and disappeared.

Vyasa announced at that time, mainly addressing the widows of the deceased. “Those of you, who want to reach heaven where your husbands live, may take a dip in the river at this point of time.” Many were keen and took the permission of their relations. They, then, did as the sage told them. It is said that all those women left this world and joined their husbands in the other world.

Janamejaya was thrilled by the narration of Vaisampayana of this strange meeting between the living and dead. He also expressed a desire to meet his dead father, Parikshit, for once. It is said that the disciple of Vyasa, with the help of his teacher, fulfilled the desire of Pandava king at that time.

After returning to the hermitage of Dhritarashtra, sage Vyasa asked the king. “The Pandavas have been here for more than a month. Their duty lies in Hastinapura, looking after the affairs of the state. It is high time that they returned.”

Dhritarashtra, accordingly, called Yudhishthira to his side and said. “Today I have achieved a long cherished desire of mine to see my children once again. It is time that you go back to your palace now. Your duty as king and mine as an ascetic are both being disrupted by your being here.”

Yudhishthira was reluctant to leave his mother, uncle and aunt in the forest and return. But, both Dhritarashtra and Gandhari insisted that he should now go back. Kunti also persuaded her son to return to Hastinapura. Accordingly, all the Pandavas took leave of their parents and returned to their palace in the company of those who followed them to the forest.

The chapter on “the meeting with the Sons (putra darSana parvam)” ends here.

The end of Vidura

Dhritarashtra mentioned that Vidura was roaming about the forest as a Yati barely sustaining life by breathing. Just at that moment the Pandava could see a skeleton like figure walking towards him.

It was difficult to recognize his uncle in his present state. The Pandava king announced himself with all reverence and moved with quick steps forward to greet him. Vidura, it appeared, looked at Yudhishthira without batting his eye lids. At that time the Pandava king felt that those eyes penetrated deep into his own. He also felt that a great power had entered into his body and filled every cell within. Yudhishthira felt himself in such perfect tranquility in mind at that time the like of which he had never felt before. He also felt that he became internally much stronger and wiser.

As this happened Yudhishthira also noticed that the body of Vidura collapsed against a tree that stood right behind him. The lifeless eyes of his uncle remained open. The extraordinary life of the great Vidura had come to an end.

Yudhishthira was overcome with sorrow and bewilderment. He had great regard for his wise and loving uncle all along. But, only the lifeless body of the saint like Vidura remained.

The Pandava king realized that his immediate duty was to perform the proper cremation of the body of his uncle. Just at that time a voice was heard from the sky. “Oh, King! You should not think of cremating this body because he has followed the path of Yatis. Know that he has become one with you in body and soul. Do not repent for his loss.”

Yudhishthira was overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events and hearing those words. He returned to Dhritarashtra and reported the matter to him. The blind king and all those around him were astonished listening to the extraordinary end to the life of Vidura.

Dhritarashtra’s Hospitality

Later on the day Dhritarashtra offered some nuts, fruit and water to his visitors from Hastinapura and said. “This is what I have that I can offer you by way of hospitality. You should be satisfied with this.”

All ate what the ascetic king offered them. The Pandavas spent the night sleeping next to their mother. The others slept underneath trees around the hermitage.

The hermitage of Dhritarashtra

Next morning all performed their morning rituals and went around the place with the permission of Dhritarashtra. The beauty and tranquility of the place won the admiration of the visitors from Hastinapura.

They could find hermits performing rituals in front of fire in small groups here and there. The sound of their chanting of Vedic hymns filled the air. The smoke that rose from the ritual fire covered wild flowers on trees around. It appeared that the flowers, themselves, were like hermits performing the offerings in front of fire. Herds of deer stood in groups here and there unconcerned of human presence. Peacocks danced with joy. The cuckoos sang “kuhoo, kuhoo” beautifully aloud. The serenity of the hermitage and its surroundings filled the minds of the Pandavas with great joy and admiration.

Yudhishthira had brought gifts of pitchers and other vessels used in rituals made of copper, silver and even gold. He distributed them to all the hermits who lived in the forests near by.

One month passed this way in which the Pandavas enjoyed the serene life in the forest in the company of their mother, uncle and aunt, and other ascetics. Then, one day the great Vedavyasa reached the place with his disciples. Several other sages, including Satayupa were present in the hermitage of Dhritarashtra at that time.

Vedavyasa enquired of the welfare of Dhritarashtra and of those who stayed with him in the forest. He asked whether the king was happy to meet his nephews forgetting all past ill feelings. Then, he narrated the story behind the birth of Vidura to all those who had assembled.

It was widely known that the god of Righteousness, called the Dharmaraja (dharmaraaja), was cursed by a sage by name Ani Mandavya to be born as human for punishing him too severely for one of his childhood pranks. Dharmaraja, then, took birth as the son of Vedavyasa to the maid of Gandhari. (We have gone through this earlier, in the beginning of the Mahabharata story). All the gods are infinite in form and only one part of the god of Dharma was born as Vidura. Another part took birth as Yudhishthira. The god, yet, continued to perform his duties based in heaven by punishing or rewarding humans for their evil or meritorious actions.

Vyasa concluded his story saying that Vidura and Yudhishthira were one and the same person. He said that the purpose of his present visit was to make this point clear. Then, he offered the king and the queens that he would fulfill whatever desire they had in their hearts.

The present chapter, “of life in the hermitage (aaSrama vaasika parvam)” ends here.

A tearful re-union

Introduction

It will be useful to be aware that various paths are followed in ascetic life. They may be considered to be stages in the step by step approach to complete renunciation. The highest among them is known as the path of a Yati. In that stage there is absolute control over all senses, including hunger and thirst. A Yati exists purely waiting for his time of death. He moves around without any cloths on (digambara) and sleeps on the bare ground. He does not bother about personal hygiene. He does not eat any food, or drink water to quench thirst. He has his teeth firmly holding the bark of a tree to facilitate breathing and to prevent the tongue slipping down the throat.

Meeting with Kunti, Dhritarashtra and Gandhari

The Pandavas went in the direction pointed out by the forest dwelling sages and found their parents at a distance. Sahadeva ran towards Kunti and fell at her feet with tears in eyes. Kunti lifted her (step) son up and stroked him with gentle hands. She, then, mentioned his arrival to the blind folded Gandhari and moved forward to meet others.

Yudhishthira and his other brothers fell at the feet of their mother first. The sorrow of separation and the joy of re-union came out as tears from all eyes. Kunti announced her sons to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari as each of them prostrated before them in turn. The Kaurava king embraced each and recognized them by the touch and by their voices. The blind pair pacified the Pandavas sensing the intensity of emotion in their hearts.

The sages who were present were touched by the emotional scene. They had heard much about the Pandavas, but, did not have the chance to meet them in person. They asked Sanjaya for the necessary introduction.

Sanjaya described each in the order of seniority. “Look at the one with a prominent nose, red tinged large eyes, shining with the glow of gold and appearing like a lion. He is the Pandava king, Yudhishthira. You can find the one with his skin like molten gold, with long, muscular arms and with the gait of a haughty elephant. Know him to be Bhima, reputed by the name of Vrikodara, one with an appetite of a wolf.”

Sanjaya continued. “See for yourself the young man standing next to Bhima, dark in complexion and appearing like the best of elephants. He has his shoulders held high like a lion and has lotus shaped eyes. He is Arjuna, the best among bowmen. Can you find a pair standing close to Kunti? You never find men who equal them in looks, strength and character. They are the twins, Nakula and Sahadeva.”

Sanjaya continued to describe Draupadi, Subhadra, Chitrangada and the wives of other Pandavas.

Dhritarashtra’s words

After the first round of greetings Dhritarashtra asked Yudhishthira. “Are you and your people not keeping well? Are not those who serve you, like your teachers, ministers and servants living in good health? Are you not reigning over your country following the rules set by your illustrious ancestors? Hope, your treasury is getting filled through righteous means. I assume that you are able to keep a well balanced stance between friends and enemies. I take that you are looking after the welfare of all your citizens, especially, of the Brahmins in your kingdom.”

Yudhishthira confirmed that he was following all the advices given by his uncle in the past and was ruling the country to his best abilities. He then, enquired how he, the pious Gandhari and his mother, Kunti managing their life in the forest. Was his uncle not managing to perform his austerities well in the forest, supported by his mother, aunt and the minister, Sanjaya?

Then, Yudhishthira remembered and enquired about the wise Vidura. “I did not find my uncle Vidura with you. Where is he?”

Dhritarashtra replied. “My son, Vidura has been getting into more and more severe forms of penance. He has become a mere skeleton with all the veins showing up beneath his skin. Finally, he has become a Yati and is roaming about. He has stopped eating and drinking altogether and survives purely by breathing air. The sages often spot him in such a condition moving here and there in the forest unconcerned of everything else.

Yudhishthira was very eager to meet his uncle who meant so much to him throughout his life in the palace and outside.

(To be continued)

Days of mourning in Hastinapura

The Pandavas, meanwhile, spent their time in Hastinapura, saddened with thoughts of their mother, uncle and aunt. They often wailed. “How will our mother, weak and frail, manage to support the blind king and his queen? How does our uncle bear the loss of his sons when alone in the forest? How are the aged people surviving in the wilderness, in the middle of ferocious animals? ”.

Immersed in anxious thoughts, they lost interest in the affairs of the State and even in the daily religious rites. Citizens who went to the palace in distress failed to get any response from the brooding king. In such sorrowful mood the tragic scenes of war haunted their minds again and again. They lamented the killing of their grandfather Bhishma, teacher Drona and of several others dear to them. Draupadi thought of the wanton killing of all her sons by the revengeful Aswatthama. Subhadra and Uttara looked at Parikshit and grieved for the valiant Abhimanyu for days together.

Ordinary citizens met in small groups and talked about their aged king who retired to the forest. They wondered aloud. “How will our blind king manage in isolation in such desolate places? He lived all along in luxury in the palace. How will the aged queens survive there? The noble Kunti must be missing her dear sons badly. How are the sage like Vidura and wise Sanjaya surviving in the dense forest?”

A visit to the forest

It was Sahadeva who broached the topic one day. He went to Yudhishthira and said. “Brother, I suspect that your mind, like mine, is wandering through the forest after our aged parents. I think that it will be an excellent idea to pay them now a visit. Let us find for ourselves how our mother, with her frail body, manages to take care of her in-laws all by herself there.” Sahadeva’s words found immediate response in favour from all his brothers.

Draupadi was also thinking in those lines when she heard the words of her young husband. She, immediately, joined in the discussion. “My heart aches with the thought of our dear mother. I often wonder whether she remains alive. Please take me also with you.” All the other queens expressed a similar desire through words or by mere looks.

The news of a possible royal visit to the forest was the topic of current interest in the palace and outside. It was soon clear that there were several others who would, given a chance, like to join in.

Elaborate preparations

It was one thing for the five Pandavas to go by themselves and yet another to take the ladies with them. So, the Pandava king ordered an army of servants and soldiers to be made ready. He declared that any of his subjects who so desired to accompany the royal visit to the forest would be allowed to do so. This was announced in every nook and corner of the kingdom days in advance. The king also ordered temporary rest houses with all amenities to be built along the path to be followed.

On the day of journey Yudhishthira climbed into his golden chariot with two of his assistants gently fanning him, befitting his royal status, with the camara (caamara or the camara tail fan). Bhima mounted himself on a mighty elephant. Arjuna drove his usual chariot driven by his favourite white stallions. Nakula and Sahadeva accompanied them on horse back. The Pandava queens like Draupadi, Subhadra, Uttara were carried on palanquins. Others followed in whatever transport they could get or on foot. All were keen to meet their aged king and queens leading ascetic life in the forest. The venerable Kripa was in charge of the army, travelling a little ahead of the rest.

The royal procession rested at night on river banks wherever shelters were provided on the way. Villagers came to pay tribute to the visiting monarchs. Draupadi and other queens distributed liberal gifts to all those who came to meet them.

After five days of journey the Pandavas reached the outskirts of the forest. They alighted from their vehicles and left the army at a distance. All then started moving into the forest on foot.

They met a few sages on the way to whom Yudhishthira asked, with his eyes filled with tears, about the whereabouts of the blind Kaurava king. The sages pointed to the river Yamuna and said that the king had gone there to collect water for his daily prayers. All, then, proceeded in that direction.

Days of Dhritarashtra in the forest

After persuading the Pandavas and their subjects to return, Dhritarashtra and his group reached the shores of Ganga in the forest before the night fell. The blind king walked with support on the shoulders of his queen. Kunti held the hand of her sister-in-law and lead her forward. This way the three found their way in the dense forest.

In the evening all took a holy dip in the refreshing waters of Ganga. The Brahmins lit fires here and there for the evening prayers. Dhritarashtra offered his worship (agni upaasana) to the fire and to the setting sun (sandhyopaasana). Then, all made preparations for sleep. The Darbha grass was spread on the floor as bed for all. Dhritarashtra lay down in one and the venerable Gandhari, next to him. Kunti chose a place close by to the aged Kaurava pair. Vidura and Sanjaya remained at a distance, but, close enough at the beck and call of their king. The others spread themselves around the banks of Ganga. The separation from their close ones and the tearful scene of bidding farewell weighed heavy in their hearts.

In the hermitage of Satayupa

All woke up early next morning and performed the morning rituals at the shores of Ganga. Later, hearing the news of the arrival of the august Kaurava king several people came there to meet him. Dhritarashtra received them cordially and entertained them for a while with various stories. Then, hearing of sage Satayupa (Satayoopa) meditating in Kurukshetra, Dhritarashtra went to his hermitage in the company of his people.

Satayupa was the king of Kekaya. He had anointed his son as the king and had retired to the forest long ago. Then, with intense meditation he had reached the status of a ‘royal sage (raajarshi)’ like the famous Viswamitra.

The two erstwhile kings spent their time in each other’s company for a while. They, then, went to meet Vedavyasa in his hermitage. It was sage Vyasa who suggested to Dhritarashtra to spend his time in the forest in the hermitage of Satayupa. The sage requested the latter to instruct the aged Kaurava on the disciplines to be followed in life in the forest.

Thus, Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti started living in the hermitage of Satayupa and receiving his valuable teachings on life in forests (vaanaprastha). Following the advice of the royal sage they started meditating, with supreme control of their mind, words and actions, and on all their sense organs. Gradually, attired in animal skin and tree barks and with matted hair, the aged king and the queens were reduced to bare bones and skin. Vidura and Sanjaya remained by the side of the king engaged in his services.

Visit by Narada

Sage Narada accompanied by his disciples and Vedavyasa paid a visit to the Kaurava king while he remained in the hermitage of Satayupa. The celestial sage narrated the stories of the grandfather of Satayupa, by name sahasracitya, who had reached the abode of Indra after accumulating enough merits through years of penance. He also gave the example of the grandfather of the brave Bhagadatta and of the son of Mandhata (one of the sixteen kings narrated earlier) and of a few other kings who all had attained great heights in meditation before they left this world. At the end Narada said. “Your (step) brother, Pandu, who lives happily in the world (heaven) of Indra thinks of you every day.”

When Narada finished his talk, sage Satayupa asked him. “You are blessed with the knowledge of the past, present and future (trikaalajna) and you told us about king Pandu having reached the heaven governed by Indra. I am curious to know about the future in store for this Kaurava king.”

In reply, sage Narada continued. “When I was with Indra recently this topic came up for discussion there. There was good appreciation for the austerities performed by Dhritarashtra and the Kaurava queens. Then, Indra told me that three more years were left in the life of Dhritarashtra on earth. Then, he would reach the abode of Kubera, the god of riches.” All were thrilled to hear the auspicious news.

Then, sage Narada and his disciples took leave of his hosts in the hermitage.

Dhritarashtra retires to forest

Homage to the deceased

Vidura approached Yudhishthira for the necessary arrangements for the Sraddha (ritual for the deceased) for those Kauravas who were killed in the war, on behalf of Dhritarashtra. The Pandava king was only too pleased to do everything possible. But, Bhima was against spending money out of the treasury to honour the arch enemies of the Pandavas. He said. “We shall perform ourselves all the ceremonies for Bhishma, Drona and all others to whom we owe Sraddha. We shall also do that for Karna, but, not for Duryodhana and his brothers not even to please our uncle. What did he do to help us when we suffered in the forests?”

Arjuna tried to talk reason with his elder brother, but without success. Then, Yudhishthira thought of a way out. He said to Vidura. “Please inform our uncle that all will be done as he wishes. I do not have to use public funds for the purpose. The entire wealth privately owned by me and Arjuna are at the disposal of our uncle which will suffice. Please convey this message to him in such a way that this special arrangement does not hurt his feelings”.

Vidura tactfully conveyed the message from the Pandavas to the blind king without upsetting him. Dhritarashtra understood the meaning, but, did not mind the stance taken by Bhima.

Well ahead of the day chosen for the start of ceremony, gift articles like cloths, pots and pans, cattle and even houses and precious jewels were stored in abundance in the palace of Dhritarashtra. The day for the ceremony was announced in all nook and corner of the vast Kuru empire. Brahmins and others, invited and otherwise, came in large numbers on the day to receive gifts (daanam). Dhritarashtra gave away gifts lasting ten days on behalf of each of his sons and all other Kauravas who were killed in the war. The king was satisfied that he paid the dues to the deceased. And, so were all who went away with gifts.

The journey of Dhritarashtra

On the day chosen for the journey Dhritarashtra called the Pandavas to his side. He, then got Vedic scholars to perform sacrificial rituals (agnihotra) for him. The king worshipped (pooja) his palace with flowers and rice flakes (laaja) by way of bidding farewell to his residence where he spent all his long years. He also rewarded through generous gifts all those who served him until that day.

Both Dhritarashtra and Gandhari had changed into cloths made of animal skin (ajinam) and bark of trees (valkalam). The king placed one hand on the shoulders of his devoted wife, the pious Gandhari, for support. Then keeping the sacrificial (agnihotra) fire in front the king set out on his last journey out of his palace.

Vidura and Sanjaya followed their king dutifully. Yudhishthira walked right behind with folded hands and choking throat. The other Pandavas followed him. Kunti and other Pandava queens walked beside Gandhari. A large crowd from different parts of the land joined the procession as the king moved along.

The royal arcade through which the procession moved was thronged on the two sides by citizens of the land, anxious to have a last glimpse of their departing king. Dhritarashtra moved with folded hands, trembling from exhaustion, emotion and old age.

A shocking move

The time came for bidding farewell. Dhritarashtra turned around and pleaded with all to return to their respective places. Vidura and Sanjaya expressed their desire to remain with their king in the forest. Dhritarashtra persuaded others, including Kripa to return.

Yudhishthira spoke to Kunti. “Mother, please return to your palace with my brothers. I shall follow my uncle a little longer into the forest.” But, instead of making a reply, Kunti continued to walk with her eyes filled with tears and holding the hands of Gandhari.

Then, she spoke to Yudhishthira. “Son, take good care of Sahadeva. Think always of your departed elder brother, Karna. It was entirely because of my fault that he had to sacrifice his life in the war. Look after your dear queen, Draupadi. It is time for me to take leave of you all. Let me spend the rest of my life serving the aged king and his queen in the forest”.

Yudhishthira in anguish

The Pandava king was shocked to hear the words of his mother. He tried to reason with her. “Mother, please do not speak like this and do not think of leaving us. If this was your plan, why did you give us inspiration to fight the war? Did you not also persuade Krishna not to seek futile peace with the Kauravas? Why are you now leaving the land we have fought and won for you?”

Bhima also pleaded with his mother. “Why are you leaving us behind and going to the forest after you brought us back from there? Be pleased with us and enjoy the kingdom we have so painstakingly fought and won.”

Kunti’s words

The mother of Pandavas replied to those words of her sons. “True, that it was I who asked you to fight like kings. It was when you lost everything in the game of dice and were humiliated in front of your own people that I stirred you up. Again, I inspired you to act, thinking that the sons of Pandu should not perish, exiled by their own cousins. I provoked you, my eldest son, who is like Dharma personified, to stand up to your rights thinking that you would not have to go to the forests, again. I stirred you up, Bhima, who has the strength of thousands of elephants to fight so that you do not suffer any more. I asked you all to go for war thinking that Arjuna, who is like Indra, should be rightly remembered as a hero. I asked all of you to face your enemies thinking that Nakula and Sahadeva should not face hunger any more. I also made you to act to prevent further humiliation to your noble queen, the princess of Panchala. You have done the right thing by fighting and winning the war. But, I do not want to enjoy the land won over by my sons, because that is for you to enjoy. What I want to now is to go into meditation in the forests and, at the same time, take care of my in-laws.”

There was nothing that the Pandavas could speak in reply to those determined words of their mother. Though both Dhritarashtra and Gandhari also tried to persuade Kunti to return to Hastinapura, the mother of Pandavas remained firm. All looked towards to Kunti with pleading eyes, but, had to return to Hastinapura, though with heavy hearts.

Yudhishthira’s sorrow

Dhritarashtra concluded his address to Yudhishthira saying, “son, give me permission to leave. Let me start meditating in the forests, the fruits of which will bring fame not only to you, but, to our entire race.

Yudhishthira was dumb struck hearing the words of his uncle. He never even suspected any cause for unhappiness to him. He was nearly in tears. He replied. “I never even dreamt that I had caused any grief to you. I do not covet power or riches when you suffer like this. You are my father, mother and teacher. How shall I exist after you go away? You better make your own son Yuyutsu (born of a woman of the merchant class, Vaisya) the king, and rule the land through him. Please let me retire to forest. Or else, if you insist on leaving, I shall also surely follow you to the forest.”

When Dhritarashtra heard his nephew speak, he looked helplessly all around and requested Sanjaya and Kripa to plead with Yudhishthira on his behalf. Then, exhausted with emotion and months of fasting, he passed out into the hands of Gandhari.

The sight of his uncle’s condition made the Pandava king even more aggrieved. He lamented. “Look at the lion of Kurus who had the strength of thousands of elephants. He once could crush the iron statue of Bhima to powder. Is that uncle of mine the one who now fell down with no strength left in him?”

Yudhishthira, then, sprinkled some cold water on the face of Dhritarashtra and started stroking all over his body with his gentle hands. Soon, the aged Kaurava king opened his eyes and looked lovingly at his nephew. He said. “Your touch has rejuvenated me. Please continue stroking me with your nectar (amruta) like fingers.”

Then, he repeated his request. “Son, let me go. Do not torment me any more by keeping me back in the palace against my wishes.” All those who were present burst into tears listening to the heart breaking words of the blind king.

Yudhishthira, then, spoke to his uncle. “You are my king. If you love me, please eat some food first. We can talk about other things later.” To that Dhritarashtra replied. “You give me your consent to leave. Then, I shall eat.”

Vyasa on the scene

Veda Vyasa arrived on the scene just at that time, as he used to do whenever his presence was required in Hastinapura. He asked the Pandava king. “Yudhishthira, do as your uncle wants. Give him permission to leave. The path he wants to follow is what was taken by all your great ancestors.”

Yudhishthira could not turn against the wise words of his grand father. He spoke turning to Dhritarashtra. “You are my father. As the dutiful son, I shall obey all your orders”

Vyasa commented. “What you said is true. Your uncle is the true king. Let him do as he desires.” With these words, the sage made every one agree to the wishes of the aged king and his queen.

Dhritarashtra was very pleased finding approval for his way. He retired to his palace in the company of his devoted queen and followed by all the others. He, then, performed his morning worships and prayers and ate some food as promised. The Pandavass remained at the side of their uncle and aunt, looking after their comfort and desires.

After Dhritarashtra finished his meal he called Yudhishthira lovingly to his side and gave him valuable instructions on the important aspects of ruling the country. When he finished Yudhishthira said. “I shall follow all your teachings to the best of my abilities. The wise Bhishma has ascended to heaven. Now you are also leaving me. Who else will guide me on all these issues?”

After Yudhishthira took his leave Gandhari wanted to know when her husband planned to retire to forest along with her. The king had set the month of Kartika as his target date. Before that he wanted to perform elaborate memorial gifts (sraaddha) for all his children and other relations who had died in the war. He sent Vidura to Yudhishthira for his permission and all necessary arrangements.

Consent of the subjects

By then, a large crowd had assembled in the palace hearing the news of the king’s decision to depart to the forests. Dhritarashtra came out with folded hands and addressed them. “I and my wife have always lived, as did all my ancestors, as mutual friends and well wishers of you, the good subjects of this kingdom. Now, we want to take leave of you with the blessings of Vyasa and the Pandavas. The good Yudhishthira shall govern the kingdom and you will continue living happily under his rule. I leave him to you so that you take good care of him. I also leave you into his capable hands. I request you to give your consent to us.” Dhritarashtra also apologized to his subjects for all the death and destruction caused by his children.

The words of Dhritarashtra brought great sorrow to all those who had assembled there. Some covered their faces with their upper garments to hide their tears. They whispered among themselves in confusion, unable to make up their minds on how to reply to the king. Finally, the assembled men chose a Brahmin by name Samba to speak on their behalf. The highly learned and wise Samba, accordingly, addressed the blind king. “There has never been a king among the Kurus who has not looked after his subjects well. You and even your son, Duryodhana, have been wonderful kings who took good care of us. Please do not find fault with your children. What has happened is not because of them, but, simply by the fate of the country as a whole. Please remember that all your sons and other heroes of the Kuru race have reached that heaven where the Kshatriyas who die fighting a war live. ”

Samba continued after a pause. “True, that we all will miss you badly. But, you are wise and have chosen the right path for a king of your nature. We are confident that king Yudhishthira, supported by his able brothers, will rule the country admirably well. Please go with peace of mind and engage in meditation as you desire.”

All who listened to the words of Samba shook their heads in agreement. The citizens said that Samba spoke wisely and to the point. Dhritarashtra received the consent of his subjects with thanks and returned to his palace in the company of his queen.

Life of Dhritarashtra in Hastinapura

We are at the start of the new chapter, “Life in the Hermitage (aaSrama vaasa parvam)”, of the new book, “of Life in the Hermitage (aaSrama vaasika parvam)” . The entire book comprises three short chapters. But, from now on the development of the remaining story of Mahabharata is fairly fast.

Dhritarashtra bestowed with love

Peace had dawned on the entire Pandava kingdom. There was prosperity everywhere.
Yudhishthira had set his mind on making his aged uncle and aunt happy all the time. He made sure that they lacked nothing, in material or in spirit. He gave strict instructions to all, to his brothers, and to all others who served in the palace that special attention should always be given to them. He announced that anyone who gave reason for the aged couple to feel unhappy would be severely punished. He proclaimed. “My uncle and aunt, who had lost all their sons in the war, should not feel sorrow of any kind.”

In fact, all went out of their way to demonstrate their respect and love to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. Vidura, Sanjaya, Kripa and Yuyutsu served the elderly Kaurava to their best. So did the Pandavas. Kunti, Draupadi, Subhadra and other Pandava queens served the blind folded Gandhari at all times with love and extreme dedication. They were served with all the delicacies eaten by kings and queens of their status. Rich cloths and precious ornaments were heaped on them from time to time. They had all the comforts in their rooms for rest and sleep.

Yudhishthira consulted Dhritarashtra and Gandhari on everything that he did. All the riches he acquired were given to them as though rightly earned by Dhritarashtra, himself. Vidura was always at his side to carry out his wishes on charity and religion. He gave gifts in abundance to Brahmins at the expressed wishes of his step brother.

Veda Vyasa paid regular visits to his blind son and entertained him with stories of ancient kings in the dynasty and from the epics.

The entire army of servants in the palace stood always at the command of Dhritarashtra on orders from Yudhishthira.

Dhritarashtra’s happiness

Indeed, Dhritarashtra was happy in every respect. And, so was Gandhari. The blind king felt so pleased with all the attention and love he received that he prayed everyday for long life and prosperity for the Pandavas. He often wondered whether he was ever happier when he was in the company of his own sons. The pious Gandhari, likewise, was well pleased in Hastinapura with all the attention she received from the Pandavas.

Fifteen years passed this way in which peace prevailed in the palaces of Hastinapura. Yudhishthira made it a point to remind his brothers every day that the blind king who had lost all his sons should not feel sorrow for any reason. The rest of Pandavas obeyed his words to their best.

Bhima’s fuming anger

But for Bhima. He could not hide his real feelings towards his uncle for long. Outwardly, he tried to be polite while his elder brother was around. Slowly, his pent up anger started showing up. He could not forget how the blind king supported his wicked son and Bhima’s main adversary, Duryodhana, in every evil move he made. After all, it was Bhima who had to bear the brunt of all the attacks by Duryodhana and his brothers since childhood. The game of dice that had turned the tide against the Pandavas had the tacit permission of his uncle. Dhritarashtra also, on his part, had publicly demonstrated his hatred towards Bhima by crushing the iron statue placed before him as Bhima.

So, Bhima always waited for an opportunity to let the fuming volcano in him to erupt. He secretly acted in ways that would hurt the feelings of Dhritarashtra. He would, when alone, order the servants not to perform their duties to the aged Kaurava. He openly boasted about his achievement in killing every one of the hundred sons of Dhritarashtra with his iron like arms. He made sure that his voice reached the blind king. The wise and pious lady, Gandhari, also heard Bhima’s taunts on occasions.

Bhima’s outbursts greatly caused pain in the heart of the aged Kaurava king and his queen. They thought over the issue and came to the conclusion that it was time for them to make a move. Yudhishthira and the other Pandavas had no knowledge of Bhima’s sly arrows aimed at the heart of his uncle. Hence, they had no idea of what was in the mind of his aged parents.

A shocking decision

Then, one day Dhritarashtra got the Pandavas and all his other relations to his side and said. “You all know about the destruction of the Kuru race through my own folly. I did not listen to the wise counsel of all those who meant well to me. My blind love to my sons lead ultimately to the war and their own death. I have spent fifteen years in this palace repenting for all that happened because of my own faults. My wife knows that I ate very little all these years immersed deeply in my sorrow.”

Then, he turned in the direction of Yushishthira. “Son, now it is time for me and my wife to retire to forest. That is the only path prescribed to those Kshatriyas who have not lost their lives fighting a war. Give me permission to move. Let me lie on a bed of matted grass on the ground in the forest eating only nuts and fruits and drinking water.”

Sacrifice without killing

Vaisampayana concluded the episode of the golden mongoose and paused, observing the face of his listener for any reaction. Janamejaya appeared thrilled listening to the story of his ancestors. There was one doubt on which he wanted clarification. He asked. “The mongoose spoke in human voice. What was it really?”

So, Vaisampayana continued. Long ago sage Jamadagni, the father of Parasurama, was about to perform the annual ritual for his ancestors (Sraaddha). He milked a cow specifically for the purpose and poured it into a newly made pitcher. It is said that anger appeared in human form and drank up all the milk. His idea was to test the sage for his equanimity. Jamadagni remained calm and ignored the foul play. Unfortunately, the ancestors of the sage did not take the wickedness of ‘anger’ kindly. They cursed Him to become a mongoose. Apparently, He got redemption from the curse when He came into contact with Yudhishthira who was the embodiment of Dharma.

The moral of the mongoose story

Janamejaya had one more lingering doubt. He asked. “Was it correct to belittle the great Horse Sacrifice of the Pandava which was done strictly adhering to all the rules?” In reply Vaisampayana narrated the incident of a sacrifice performed by Indra, himself. It was a perfect setting in which the ritual was about to take place. Great sages were present for the sacrifice and the fire was lit as prescribed. The animals were ready to be slaughtered. Then, feeling pity for the beasts, the sages told Indra. “What you are trying to do is not right. Killing of animals is against the scripture. What is prescribed is to use seeds (beeja) preserved for three years for the purpose.”

Indra was not willing to accept the decree of the sages right away. An argument, then, arose between those who supported animal sacrifice and the ones who stood against that. The wise men, even on consultation with the king of Vasus (vasu), could not resolve the issue satisfactorily, but, agreed that what is sacrificed and given away as gift must be acquired in the right manner. What is important is the purity of mind in the process of the sacrifice.

The sacrifice of Agastya

As an example Vaisampayana told the story of Agastya and his famous sacrifice. The sage had taken a vow (deeksha) for a twelve year sacrifice (yajna). Renowned celestial sages, known by the names such as Ashmakutta, Mareecipa, Vaighasika and so on, with purified minds joined hands with him in the sacrifice without killing animals.

One of the purpose of all such sacrifices and the indication of their success is that Indra pours down rain in abundance so that there will be enough food for all on earth. But, no rain fell for several years in succession. Other sages who participated were worried. They approached Agastya with their troubled mind. “You have started a twelve year sacrifice and there is no rain so far. If rain does not fall for twelve years in a stretch the entire country will face famine, and perish.”

But, Agastya was unperturbed. He announced. “If Indra does not send rain, I shall still continue with my sacrifice with the seeds of grain. If no rain falls, I shall perform the ritual merely touching the sacrificial objects (sparSa yajna). Even then, if there is no rain, I shall do nothing but do the performance purely in my thoughts (cintaa yajna).”

The sage paused, and then continued. “If Indra remains adamant even then, I shall create a new Indra with the power of my penance and make rains myself. The Gandharvas shall sing and the celestial damsels (apsara) dance for my sacrifices. I shall make enough food for all living creatures.”

All the sages who had assembled were highly pleased with the resolve of Agastya in his adherence to non-killing (ahimsa). The king of gods got the message and sent rains in abundance making everyone happy.

Thus concluded Vaisampayana the story of Agastya and the principle of non-violence that the sage upheld through his example of sacrificial ritual.

We now come to the end of the chapter “a sequel to Geetha (anugeetaa parvam)” and also of the book “of the horse sacrifice (aaswamedhika parvam)”