The War – Day 14 (part 1)

The 13th day’s war had ended in the most tragic death of the heroic Pandava, Abhimanyu. The sorrow of his grieving father turned into a resolve for revenge on the main culprit, Jayadratha, who trapped the young prince inside the Kaurava army. Arjuna proclaimed that he would kill the Sindhu king before the sun set next day. Else, he would end his own life. Drona and Duryodhana promised the frightened Jayadratha that they would do all in their power to protect him. That was how the day ended on the thirteenth.

Yudhishthira was worried. The war on his side crucially depended upon Arjuna. He made special prayers for his brother’s victory. He offered valuable gifts to Brahmins and, in turn, received their blessings.

Yet, Yudhishthira remained apprehensive. He approached Krishna. “O! You, the destroyer of the demon, Madhu, today we need your help more than ever. You know all about our sorrow and how we are fighting for justice through this war. Arjuna’s dangerous oath has put us in a fix. Only you can save us from this situation”.

Krishna consoled the Pandava assuring him of victory against the Sindhu king and, ultimately, in the war.

The formation of the Kaurava army

Drona had put a lot of thoughts behind arraying his forces that day. He made a combination of several formations in which there was the circular one followed by one that looked like a wagon. There was a lotus formation behind that inside which was a needle shaped array. The entire formation spread over an area ten miles wide and twenty four long. Duryodhana and several other Kauravas guarded the formation at its vital points. Drona, himself, stood at the fore front.
Jayadratha was placed six miles behind all this. He had a huge battalion consisting of hundred thousand soldiers on horse back just to protect him. Besides, veterans like Karna, Aswatthama, Kripa and Salya stood guarding him.

On the whole it was a formidable arrangement and looked impenetrable for any enemy. The confidence that it gave to the Kaurava army was such that one could hear shouts challenging the Pandavas. “Where is Arjuna and where is his friend, Krishna? Where is that giant, Bhimasena? Let them come. We shall finish them all in no time”.

Durmarshana, the son of Dhritarashtra, was particularly ebullient. He had a battalion at his disposal. He challenged Arjuna saying that he would defeat the Pandava on his own.

Arjuna’s arrival

At that time all heard the blowing of Arjuna’s conch shell, the Devadatta. The monkey on his mast could be sighted from afar fluttering in the wind. Slowly Arjuna’s chariot driven by Krishna appeared at a distance. The Pandava shone with his Gandiva like the god of death appearing in person on the battle field. He was undaunted looking at the ocean of the Kaurava army and the intricate formation Drona had made. He blew on his conch shell again and again. That, itself, was enough to create terror in the minds of the Kaurava soldiers.

Start of the battle

Arjuna asked Krishna to drive on straight into the elephant battalion of Durmarshana that stood at the front of the enemy ranks. Then, arrows started coming out the Gandiva in quick succession with its terrifying twanging sound. The elephants started falling down in large numbers struck by Arjuna’s sharp arrows. Many turned back and made a major stampede within the Kaurava forces. The army lead by Durmarshana took to flight. The Kaurava himself was seriously wounded by Arjuna’s arrows and had to escape from the scene in great hurry.
Arjuna, then, made an all out thrust into the Kaurava army breaking through the formations of Drona one by one. The other Pandava warriors lead by Dhrishtadyumna followed Arjuna and fought through the Kaurava forces in a breathtaking battle.

Dussasana against Arjuna

Dussasana was enraged finding his brother turned away by Arjuna. He challenged the Pandava with a huge elephant battalion of his own. The two fought fiercely against each other for a while. Soon, Arjuna’s arrows scattered the Kaurava forces in all directions. Dussasana, himself, was so tormented that he took refuge behind Drona.

Arjuna against Drona.

Arjuna then drove on to face his teacher. He greeted Drona. “Sir, I bow at your feet. Please bless me so that I may defeat the Sindhu king in today’s battle”.

Drona replied. “But, you have to win over me first”. So saying, the Acharya started dispatching powerful arrows against Arjuna and Krishna. For every arrow of Arjuna there were many that came like fire from Drona. Before Arjuna thought of cutting his opponent’s bow, Drona’s arrow cut the string of the Gandiva into two. The teacher and disciple fought like foes, equal in power and skill in combat.

After a while Krishna spoke to Arjuna. “Let us not waste time on the Acharya. Our real enemy is elsewhere, who is still far away, out of sight”.

Arjuna, accordingly, tried to pass Drona keeping to his right. (Going around a deity or revered persons through the left is a way of showing respect).

But, Drona shouted. “Where are you going without facing your enemy?”

To that Arjuna replied. “Sir, you are not my enemy, but, teacher”.

With those words he asked Krishna to drive on. Several other Kaurava warriors challenged the progress of Arjuna.

We shall learn about it in the next episode.

The War – Day 13 (Part 4)

The 13th day’s war ended with Abhimanyu’s death. Arjuna was away from the scene fighting alone against the suicide army of the Trigarthas. They had become such a nuisance that the Pandava had decided to put an end to their challenge once and for all.

Arjuna became worried that day when he was returning from his battle. He spoke to his friend. “Krishna, I feel somehow apprehensive today. My heart palpitates for no reason. I wonder, if something would have happened to my brother”. That was all that Arjuna could think of at that time.

Krishna said. “Do not worry about him. I am sure that he is safe”.

Arjuna’s Grief

Arjuna noticed several bad omens on the way to his army's camp. As they came near the Pandava became even more nervous. He said. “Why is that I do not hear the usual auspicious blowing of conch shells and playing of trumpets? We always hear prayers and music played on the Veena in the evenings when the warriors relax”. He was sure that something was seriously wrong. He exclaimed. “Why is that every one is hanging his head down when I arrive?”

When he met his brothers they all averted their glances. Then, Arjuna asked. “I notice that your faces are pale. I do not find Abhimanyu among you. I was aware that Drona had built the circular formation today. It was only my son who knew how to break that apart from me. Did you rashly send him for that herculian task which was too much for his young shoulders? Oh, My God! If something has happened to him, I shall end my life this very instant”.

He asked his eldest brother to explain what happened.

Yudhishthira, with a heavy heart, explained the events of the day. He went into the details of Abhimanyu making a thrust into the Kaurava formation, how Jayadrataha prevented other Pandavas from following the young son of Arjuna and how that became fatal for the Abhimanyu.

The Oath

Arjuna’s sorrow turned into an uncontrollable rage. Without thinking about the consequences he proclaimed. “I shall chop the head of the Sindhu king before the sun sets tomorrow. If I do not succeed to do that, I shall end my own life by jumping into fire tomorrow, itself”.

The news reached the Kaurava ranks within no time. Jayadratha was worried. He told Duryodhana. “Prince, you have heard about Arjuna’s pledge. I am worried about my life. Let me go and hide somewhere where the Pandava cannot find me”.

But, Duryodhana assured his ally. “Have no worry for your life. Look, who are all here to protect you! The Pandava will have to destroy all of us, the Acharya, Karna, Salya, Kripa, myself and my entire army, before he can come anywhere near you.

Dronacharya also pacified the king of Sindhu. He said that he would make such a formation next day that even Arjuna would find it hard to break into.

Krishna’s misgivings

News travel fast from one army to the other in war. There are spies posted by each party in the enemy’s camp to get the pulse in time. The news of the extra precaution taken by Duryodhana and his entire army to guard the Saindhava reached the Pandavas soon. Krishna was apprehensive. He told Arjuna. “My friend, you were unduly hasty in taking that pledge. Why did you not consult me in advance? It will not be easy for you to honour your words when the Acharya has given his full support to Jayadratha”.

But, Arjuna was unperturbed. He said. “Krishna, you shall see me at my best tomorrow. Let the Acharya and the entire Kaurava forces protect Jayadratha. I shall kill him tomorrow in spite of everything”.

Krishna was pleased with the firm resolve of his dear friend.

Krishna’s difficult mission

Krishna was given the difficult task of consoling Subhadra, Uttara and Draupadi. The women were in uncontrollable grief. What all Krishna could say was how valiantly Abhimanyu fought against the combined forces of the Kauravas. Krishna asked them to feel proud, as Kshatriya women ought to, of the hero and not to wail over his loss. He also told them of Arjuna’s resolve for revenge.

Krishna orders for his own chariot

Krishna knew that the war next day would be a crucial one. He could take no chances. So, he thought of his own charioteer, which is Krishna’s way of sending for him . Daruka sensed that his services were required and appeared before Krishna instantaneously. Krishna spoke to him.
“You would already have known about tomorrow’s battle. I need your expertise that time. Get my own chariot ready with my horses, Saibya, Manigriva, Meghapushpa and Valahaka. Equip the chariot with all my special weapons. I do not want to take any chances. Arjuna’s victory will be mine. If he fails, it will be my failure, too”.

Daruka replied. “Sir, let that be so. How can Arjuna fail when you are at his side?”
So saying, the charioteer of Krishna disappeared.

Thus ends the chapter “the Oath of Arjuna (Pratijna Parvam)”. We start a new chapter which runs into nearly 4,000 stanzas of poetry with the next episode. The fourteenth day of war is covered in that chapter.

The War – Day 13 (Part 3)

The last episode ended with the tragedy of Abhimanyu’s death. The heroic son f Arjuna and nephew of Krishna was the victim of a highly unethical combat. All the veteran Kauravas joined hands and killed the young Pandava when he was trapped inside their vast army. Then, without shame, they celebrated victory by singing and dancing around the body of their victim. Noble souls among them shed tears looking at the body of the young prince who lost his life after fighting so valiantly.

The Pandavas heard the loud applause from inside the enemy’s ranks and guessed what would have happened. Soon, news came confirming their worst suspicion. Their hero had been killed. Arjuna and Krishna were still away fighting against the suicide army of Trigarthas. The sun had just reached the western horizon.

Yudhishthira’s sorrow

The senior Pandava was grief stricken. He lamented. “This young boy was sent by me to make a breach in the Kaurava formation which none of us knew how to do. Now he lay dead in the battle field. All the great warriors on my side failed to follow him as promised. How can I meet Arjuna? How can I console Uttara, Subhadra and Draupdai? It is better that we all perish along with Abhimanyu. I have no desire to fight this war any more. I not covet kingship any more”.

Veda Vyasa

Sage Veda Vyasa arrived there at that moment. He consoled the Pandava explaining death as a certainty for all living beings. The best that a Kshatriya (the warrior class) could hope for was death in the battle field. Abhimanyu had achieved that in the most honourable manner. He had already reached heaven reserved for veteran warriors.

Veda Vyasa, then, went into the nature of death itself. When the world was first created by Brahma (the creator) there was no death. Life multiplied on earth so fast that it became intolerable for mother earth. It was, then, that he created the goddess of death. The sage proceeded into the story of the goddess (Mrityu).

He also narrated very briefly the story of sixteen kings as told by sage Narada to king Akampana. All of them, like Bharata, Bhaggeratha and Yayati were eminent rulers, but, all died at the end as life was short for all living beings.

The sage told Yudhishthira that it was futile to indulge in mourning the dead. With those words Veda Vyasa disappeared from the scene.

We come to the end of the chapter “the killing of Abhimanyu (Abhimanyu Vadha Parvam)” with this episode. Arjuna was yet to return to the camp. We shall learn about it in the next chapter.

The War – Day 13 (Part 2)

We have seen in the last episode how Abhimanyu was trapped inside the mammoth Kaurava army and got surrounded by the stalwarts like Drona, Karna, Kripa and Salya. The Pandava warriors, lead by Bhima and Dhristadyumna were right behind him, but, their entry was blocked by Jayadratha.

But, the young Pandava was undaunted. The fighting spirit of the son of Arjuna increased many fold when he found himself, all alone, against the formidable Kaurava forces. Duryodhana, himself, had launched the attack against Abhimanyu. The Pandava fought like a lion among a herd of elephants, sending sharp arrows in quick succession in all directions. The bodies of all those who dared to face him in battle soon were strewn all over the field stuck with Abhimanyu’s arrows. The Kaurava army soon started running in all directions unable to face Krishna’s nephew in battle.

Against Salya

Duryodhana found himself all alone against Abhimanyu. The valour of the young Pandava and the plight of his army unnerved the Kaurava. He called on his veteran warriors for support. He said. “Do not fear, come and attack this arrogant Pandava. Else, he will finish us all in no time”. All the stalwarts like Salya, Kripa and Karna, lead by Drona, rushed to the scene and surrounded Duryodhana. They covered the tormentor of the Kuru prince with a shower of arrows. The Kaurava army in plight started gathering around its leaders. Duryodhana was, thus, saved from a situation that would have become fatal for the Kaurava.

But, Abhimanyu was greatly angered by the intrusion of the Kaurava warriors for letting his prey escape from his hold. He turned his wrath to his detractors. One of the powerful arrows from Abhimanyu pierced through the armour of Karna and found its target on his chest. Another hit Salya with such a force that the Madra king lost his sense for a while. Tha Kaurava army started to flee, again, frightened by that sight.

The brother of Salya was angered by the daring feat of Abhimanyu. He came to take revenge on the young Pandava. A fierce battle took place between the two. The Madra prince was killed at the end by one of Abhimanyu’s well aimed arrows.

Drona’s Praise

The Pandava hero, then, stated moving quickly through the Kaurava army destroying everything that came his way. None was able to check the spirited battle of the son of Arjuna. Drona was wonder struck at the display of superior skill by the young Pandava. He exclaimed. “Here we find the best of Pandavas. There is none to match his fighting skill in the whole world. It appears that our entire army will perish in no time under his attack”.

Duryodhana happened to overhear this remark. He spoke to those near him. “If our teacher sets his mind, even the god of death will not escape from his hold. He is being soft on the son of his favourite disciple”.

Dussasana’s futile attempt

Dussasana heard this and came forward to teach their arrogant enemy a lesson. Abhimanyu accepted the challenge from the Kaurava and said to him. “I am fortunate that I have you against me today. I shall avenge for all the insults on my father and uncles”. So saying, the Pandava unleashed a torrent of arrows against his enemy. Dussasana was unable to face his young opponent much longer and his charioteer had to save his life by driving out of the battle field.

That scene cheered the Pandavas who were trying to make an entry into the Kaurava army. They renewed their thrust with all their might. But, the Sindhu king stood firm in their path fighting tooth and nail without yielding even an inch of ground. The Pandavas were frustrated without getting entry through the formidable circular formation of Drona.

The plight of Dussasana brought Karna on the scene. Even the son of Adhiratha, in spite of trying all in his power, had to turn back unable to withstand the unfailing arrows from Abhimanyu. Karna’s brother could not tolerate this and he confronted Abhimanyu in a straight combat. But, within no time the young Pandava sent his opponent to the abode of the dead.
Several other prominent warriors on the Kaurava side perished at the hands of the Pandava hero. Lakshmana, the son of Duryodhana, was one among them. So was Rukmaratha, the son of Salya.

The death of their dear ones angered the Kauravas even further. They made, again, an all out attack against Abhimanyu. All the Kaurava stalwarts like Drona, Salya and Kripa were among them. The battle grew in intensity. The Kaurava army soon started dissipating under the onslaught of the lone Pandava in their midst.

Abhimanyu did not bother to find whether any help came his way. His mind was set on annihilating, as though, the entire Kaurava army.

An act of cowardice

Karna had to accept, after a prolonged battle, his inability to do anything against the young Pandava hero. He pleaded for help from the Acharya. “Sir, please tell us how we can tackle this formidable Pandava. We have tried all the tactics of warfare that we learnt from you. Nothing seems to work against this valorous prince”.

Drona said. “True, Karna. We cannot defeat this young hero in straight combat. If you want success, you have to look for other means. Try and cut his bow without facing him”.

All the Kauravas were bent on putting an end to their oppressor by any means. They encircled the lone warrior and started dispatching arrows at the same. Karna broke Abhimanyu’s bow. The Pandava lost his charioteer and horses as prey to the arrows of Salya and Kripa respectively.

Abhimanyu was unperturbed. He jumped out of his chariot with sword and shield in hand and advanced towards his enemies. But, Drona sent shafts in quick succession cutting his weapons into pieces.

The last bold stand

Abhimanyu stood totally disarmed against his formidable enemies. It took no time for the son of Arjuna to improvise a weapon. He quickly bent down and removed one wheel of his chariot. Revolving the wheel like a discus, the young hero rushed towards Drona. All the Kauravas were wonder struck by this unexpected move of Abhimanyu. Then, they all joined hands and cut the wheel down into pieces by their arrows.

There was a club left in the chariot of Abhimanyu. He quickly grabbed that fell among the Kaurava soldiers. He started swinging his weapon in all directions. Several of his enemies were killed in the process.

The son of Dussasana quickly came forward and met Abhimanyu in combat. The two fought like two lion cubs for a while. But, the young Pandava was exhausted soon. His long and lone fight against all the veteran Kauravas had exhausted him completely. When he was panting for breath the son of Dussasana smashed Abhimanyu’s head with his own club.

Thus ended the most heroic battles fought until that day. It was also one of the most cowardly acts in which a large number of veteran fighters hunted down a lone, young warrior. The hero lay dead on the ground amidst thousands of those killed by him.

(To be continued)

The War – Day 13 (Part 1)

We are on a new chapter now. One of the most memorable battles in the war was fought on this day.

We have come across Abhimanyu, Arjuna’s born of Krishna’s sister, Subhadra. The Pandava had a couple of children born of his other wives, Draupadi and Uloopi. Of all, Abhimanyu was outstanding in all spheres of warfare and was Arjuna’s favourite. We have seen earlier how brave he has been against much senior opponents. When this war was fought, Abhimanyu was very young, probably in his twenties. He had recently married the daughter of Virata. Uttara was carrying Abhimanyu’s first child at that time.

Duryodhana complains to Drona

Drona had promised Duryodhana to capture Yudhishthira alive. He tried for two days without success. The Kaurava prince went to his teacher complaining about it. Duryodhana said. “Sir, do you wish to see us all killed? Is that why you are not capturing Yudhishthira as promised though he was within your reach on occasions? If you set your mind on something there is none among men, devils or even gods who can prevent you”.

Drona was pained to hear the words of rebuke from the prince. He said. “It is unfair that you do not see how earnestly I tried to fulfill my pledge. You seem to forget that Arjuna guided by Krishna is fighting on the other side. There is none on earth, heaven or in the world below who can beat them in straight combat. It was part of the bargain that that pair would be kept away from Yudhishthira. That has not happened. You try and achieve that. I am going to make the most formidable formation of our army tomorrow and make an all out attack on Yudhishthira. Let us see who can block me when Arjuna is occupied elsewhere”.

The Circular Formation

The Trigartha king, Susarma, was still alive burning with passion for vengeance on Arjuna. He organized thousands more of his devoted men and formed another suicide squad. He, then, challenged his sworn enemy on the thirteenth day of war.

Meanwhile Drona arranged his army, as promised, in a circular formation (Cakra Vyuha) that day (according to some version, a lotus-like formation- Padma Vyuha). Duryodhana stood at the centre. The best of among the Kauravas stood guarding all around leaving no vulnerable point for the enemy to make any thrust. Drona lead the charge against the Pandava army with such a formation advancing towards Yudhishthira.

The great Pandava warriors like Bhima, Satyaki, Dhrishtadyumna and Ghatotkacha tried their best to check its march towards their leader. The Kaurava army in the circular formation stood like a huge mountain advancing all the time. The Pandavas were at a loss to prevent its progress. The only way out for the Pandavas was, somehow, to make a breach in the Kaureava array. But, Arjuna was only one who knew how to do that and he away fighting against the Trigarthas.

Then, Yudhishthira remembered that Arjuna had taught the secret to his son, Abhimanyu. He called his young nephew aside and spoke to him. “Son, we shall all be killed unless we break into this formation of our enemy. Other than you only your father and uncle know how to do it. Unfortunately, both of them are away fighting against the Samsaptakas (suicide army). You have to help us in this difficult situation”.

Abhimanyu said. “True, that I have learnt the skill to break into this circular formation from my father. I shall gladly undertake this task. But, I did not get chance to learn how to get out of it.”
Yudhishthira said. “Do not worry. We shall all be right behind you. The moment you beak into the enemy, we shall all follow right behind you”. Bhima who was standing nearby also assured his young nephew of support.


The young lion among elephants

With that assurance, the brave Abhimanyu asked his charioteer to drive straight into the Kaurava formation. But, his charioteer cautioned him. “Prince, great is the burden placed on your young shoulders today! Remember that you are against the Acharya who has no equal in this world. All the great warriors like his son, Karna, Salya and Kripa are solidly behind him. Look at their army that is fast approaching like a formidable ocean ready to swallow anything that comes in its way. Think before you rush into it”.

But, Abhimanyu ignored the warning. He said. “I am the son of Arjuna and nephew of Krishna. I do not fear fighting even against them”.

The Kaurava army found, to its amazement, the chariot of Abhianyu driving into their array in the next moment. The unthinkable breach was made by the young Pandava in the Kaurava army. He destroyed all those who stood in his way. Then, his chariot disappeared in the vast army of the Kauravas.

Jayadratha’s Feat

The veteran Pandavas like Bhima, Dhrishtadyumna and Satyaki were right behind him. But, before they could follow young Abhimanyu through the array of soldiers Jayadratha blocked their path.

It was said that the Sindhu king was greatly demoralized after losing Draupadi to Arjuna in the Swayamvara. He took to great penance on Siva for a long time. The Lord appeared at the end and offered a boon of his choice. Jayadratha wanted revenge on the Pandavas. He said. “Lord, I must be able to defeat all the Pandavas all alone in battle”.

Lord Siva said. “You shall win over all except Arjuna”.

The boon from the Lord worked this time. Jayadratha succeeded in blocking the entire Pandava army lead by the like of Bhima. As he engaged the Pandavas, Drona succeeded in patching up the breach that Abhimanyu made in his array.
(To be continued)

The War – Day 12 (Part 2)

The focus of war on the twelfth day was to catch Yudhishthira alive. The main hurdle was Arjuna with his Gandiva. How to keep him away from his brother was the task on hand for the Kauravas. It was then that the Trigarthas formed a suicide squad sworn to kill Arjuna or to die in the process. When that battle raged elsewhere Drona closed on Yudhishthira.

But, several brave Pandava warriors were keeping close guard of Yudhishthira. They challenged the advance of the Acharya by sending showers of arrow on him. Duryodhana did not want to take any chances and sent reinforcements for Dronacharya.

This resulted in several individual battles between those who guarded Yudhishthira and those who tried to break into their defenses. Among them, Bhima stood like a pillar thwarting all attempts to get near his brother.

The Brave Bhagadatta

Duryodhana wanted to remove this main obstacle in getting his prize catch and attacked Bhima with a huge elephant mounted army. The Pandava dispersed their attack sending sharp arrows on the tuskers. Then, Bhagadatta came on the scene mounted on his specially trained elephant, Supratikam. The king of Pragjyotisha managed to crush the chariot of Bhima with the help of his elephant. Bhima continued to fight standing on his foot. The elephant harassed the Pandava for a while. Bhima managed to remain unhurt through some careful manoeuvres under the elephant. The Panchala princes arrive just on time to divert the attention of the elephant. They encircled Bhagadatta and his elephant and started sending sharp arrows.

Several other Pandava warriors soon came on the scene. But, Bhagadatta managed to dispel their attacks displaying exceptional skill with his elephant. The king of Pragjyotisha, then, dispersed the surrounding Pandava army in all directions.

Arjuna noticed what was happening to his army at the hands of Bhagadatta. He requested Krishna to take him to Bhagadatta. But, those who were left in the suicide army would not leave the Pandava alone. Arjuna was in two minds. Was it right to turn back on the challenging enemy? Can he let his army continue to be punished by the king of Pragjyotisha?

The end of Bhagadatta

Finally, he decided to finish the work on hand, of putting an end to the challenge of the Trigarthas. He sent a large number of well aimed arrows from his Gandiva that virtually finished what was left of the Trigartha forces. Then, he turned to Bhagadata.

There was a fierce battle between the two brave warriors. Bhagadatta, soon, realized that he was facing a formidable enemy. Finding no other way out, he took out the Vaishnava Astra (the weapon of Vishnu) and hurled it against Arjuna.

Krishna knew that he, being the incarnation of Vishnu, alone could face the weapon. So, he blocked the way of the arrow with his own chest. It is said that the weapon turned into a garland of flowers on Krishna’s chest.

Arjuna was angry with his mentor for intruding into his territory. He said. “Krishna, your duty was to drive my chariot. Why did you not leave it to me to face the weapon and destroy it my own way?” Krishna consoled the Pandava by explaining how fatal the weapon would have become, if it hit Arjuna.

Now, Bhagadatta had lost even his last weapon against his formidable enemy. Arjuna wasted no time to send sharp arrows against his twin opponents, the king and his elephant. His arrows broke through the protective armour borne both by the elephant and its master. In the very next instant another pair of arrows pierced through the head of the elephant and cut the head of Bhagadatta down.

Thus ended an important part played by the king of Pragjyotisha and his powerful elephant.

Sakuni’s Defeat

Sakuni, the uncle of Duryodhana wasted no time to fill in the gap left by the death of Bhagadatta. The king of Gandhara was supported by several of his brothers. Arjuna killed the brothers of Sakuni one by one. This enraged the son of Subala (Sakuni). He took resort to illusion making warfare in which he was an expert. Arjuna could see through each of Sakuni’s tricks and defeated each by appropriate counter weapons. Sakuni was exposed at the end with all his weapons of illusions destroyed. The king of Gandhara ran with his life from the scene. This caused the Kaurava army to flee in panic.

There were several other battles on that day. The most important was between two arch rivals, Arjuna and Karna. Karna was supported by three of his brothers. In the fierce battle that ensued Arjuna killed all the three brothers of Karna. Karna had to be saved from the scene by Drona, Duryodhana and Jayadratha.

The war on the twelfth day thus ended without Drona capturing Yudhishthira. The chapter on the “Killing of the Suicide Army (Samsaptaka Vadha Parvam)” also ends here.

The War – Day 12

(Veda Vyasa starts a new chapter to cover the twelfth day’s war. Let us remember that that was the second day after Drona took charge. Two of the famous battles of the Mahabharata war take place in this chapter.)

The Acharya was apologetic to Duryodhana. He said. “I failed to deliver what I promised you. But, there was one condition, that Arjuna should have, somehow, been kept away from Yudhishthira. I got no chance yesterday with him hovering around his brother all the time”.

The Trigartha princes, lead by their king Susarma, heard this conversation. They proclaimed. “We shall take care of that. Arjuna had insulted us on several occasions, first on his victory march preceding the Rajasooya ritual of Yudhishthira. Then again, he defeated us when we invaded the Matsya kingdom. This is our chance for sweet revenge”.

The Suicide Squad

The entire Trigarta army, then, went through a ritual of oath taking. They lit fire and swore in front of it that none of them would turn back until the middle Pandava (Arjuna) was killed. That was a terrible oath to take. The entire battle field reverberated with their solemn pledge.
The news reached the Pandavas. Yudhishthira was apprehensive. Arjuna was supposed to guard him against Drona.

But, the Gandeevee (one with the Gandiva bow, Arjuna) declared that he would never turn down a challenge. He assured Yudhishthira that the Panchala prince, Satyajit would guard him equally well.

The Terrible Fight

Thousands of Trigarthas came riding their chariots and encircled Arjuna right from the start of the twelfth day. Arjuna was not the least worried looking at the vast army of men, all of whom came bent on his blood. Arrows were shot from the Gandiva so fast and with such a force that hundreds and thousands started falling down like moth facing fire. One of the great Trigartha princes, Sudhanwa, was also killed by a well aimed arrow from Arjuna’s bow. That scared the Trigartha army and all started backing out forgetting their vow. The Trigartha king, Susarma, was quick to remind them of their word and he managed to get back his men in battle array again.

Arjuna was amused finding those who came with an oath to kill him fleeing for their lives. But, he was surprised the very next moment with their sudden turn back. The Pandava did not want to spend too much time fighting with an army which looked like an ocean of men determined to kill him. So, he took out his special weapon, the Brahmastra (the arrow of Brahma) and launched it against the Trigarthas. Its effect was devastating for the invading force. Large number of their soldiers perished under the impact of the all-destroying Brahmastra. The remaining ones were so confused with what was happening that they started fighting against each other.

The Trigartha king survived the Brahmastra. There were also a few hundred of his men who escaped the terrible weapon. They rallied together with renewed determination to fulfill their pledge. They surrounded Arjuna and started dispatching arrows against the Pandava in quick succession. There were so many arrows coming that they soon covered the entire chariot with Krishna and Arjuna in it. Krishna, himself covered by the Trigartha arrows, had to shout for Arjuna to find out what was happening. Krishna asked. “Arjuna, are you alive? Are you still there?”

Arjuna replied from behind. “Here, I am. Now you shall see me in action”. With those words he took out the Wind Arrow (Vayavya Astra) against the Trigarthas. His arrow produced wind with such a force that the remaining Trigarthas were carried away from the battle field in one big sweep.

Drona's Attack

Drona was waiting for the Trigarthas to engage Arjuna. He arrayed his own forces in the shape of an eagle (Garuda Vyuha) keeping many of the veteran Kauravas, like Salya, Kripa, Jayadratha and Bhagadatta, guarding the vital points. Then he marched towards his target, Yudhishthira. The senior Pandava was unnerved finding the Kaurava army lead by Drona fast approaching towards him. Dhrishtadyumna asked the Pandava not to worry and drove his chariot towards Drona. But, the Acharya avoided a direct confrontation with his sworn enemy and went towards Yudhishthira through a different path.

Several prominent Pandava heroes with their army confronted Drona on the way. The Acharya made short work of his detractors. The Pandava army dispersed in all directions unable to face the terrible attack launched from the Kaurava commander.

(To be continued)

The War – Day 11

Book of Drona – The Installation of Drona as the Commander of the Kaurava Army

(With the fall of the giant among warriors, Bhishma, we come to a new Book in Mahabharatam. It is a new chapter in several senses of the word.

Veda Vyasa counted the days of war as the first day, second day and so on. After the fall of Bhishma, the sage has started all over again, from one, as though it is entirely a new war).

Karna took a hostile stand against Bhishma throughout his life. But, with his fall Karna felt really sad. He was fully aware of the greatness of the senior Kaurava.

He now realized that Duryodhana expected much out of him in the war. And Karna was
ready to give all for the sake of his mentor.

Karna went, again, next morning to meet Bhishma on his bed of arrows. He sought
the blessings of the grandsire for his battle against the Pandavas. Bhishma wished
Karna with good luck.

Then, Karna entered the battle field on the eleventh day in his chariot carried by four
white horses. His very presence brought cheers in the Kaurava army. Some even ventured
to pass the comment. “Bhishma was rather partial towards the Pandavas. We are going to
witness the son of Adhiratha mauling the Pandava army like a lion”.

A new Commander

Duryodhana embraced his dear friend finding his enthusiasm. But, there was a task at
hand, to install a new commander for the Kaurava army. Karna said. “There are several
capable warriors on our side who would fulfill the role admirably well. But, we want
some one who is accepted without a question by all. Drona is the right person for us. He
is our teacher as well as of so many warriors on both the sides, including the Pandavas
and the Panchalas”. Duryodhana agreed that Drona was the right choice for the post.
He went to the Acharya and prostrated before him. Duryodhana said. “Sir, you are our
teacher. There is no warrior in the entire world who would match your skill in all
branches of warfare. We want to you to lead the army henceforth”. Drona took it as an
honour and accepted the challenging job gladly. But, he reminded Duryodhana that the
Panchala prince, Dhrishtadyumna, was born with the blessing of Lord Siva to be his
killer.

The Acharya was installed as the commander in chief ceremoniously on the eleventh
morning. There was general applause from the army with hopes for the war turning in its
favour.

Drona’s offer

The Acharya, greatly pleased with the honour bestowed on him, asked Duryodhana what
he could offer to the Kaurava prince as gift. Duryodhana said. “Please get me
Yudhishthira alive. There is nothing that I cherish better”. Drona promised to do just that,
provided Arjuna was kept away from the senior Pandava. Duryodhana promised that he
would take care of that.

Yudhishthira heard the pledge of Drona. He was worried. But, Arjuna proclaimed. “True,
that I shall never kill my dear teacher. But, as long as I am alive the Acharya will not be
able to get hold of you”.

Drona terrorized the Pandava army that day. Wherever the Acharya moved, the
Pandava army took to flight.

There were several duels that day, the most important being between Abhimanyu and
Kritavarma. The veteran Kaurava could not stand against the young heroic Pandava.
Jayadratha came to relieve Kritavarma. But, he also could not face the young Pandava
prince in a formidable form.

Bhima and Salya met against each other using their maces. The Madra king was beaten by the Pandava at the end.

Meanwhile, Drona was inching close to Yudhishthira anxious to honour his word to Duryodhana. But, Arjuna arrived at the scene and thwarted the Kaurava thrust. The Pandava fought so valiantly that the entire Kaurava army took to flight. By then, the sun set in the western horizon and both the sides withdrew their forces for the day.

Thus ends the eleventh day’s war and also the chapter, “the Installation of Drona as the Kaurava Commander (Dronaabhisheka Parvam)”

The War – Day 10 (Part 3)

Dhritarashtra heard about the fall of his father (uncle), Bhishma and lamented to Sanjaya. “My heart must be made of iron that it did not burst into pieces hearing this tragic news. He, who was not beaten even by the great Parasurama, is now felled by a much inferior warrior, Sikhandi. How can I tolerate such an insult to my father?” Sanjaya kept quiet while the blind king spoke those pitiable words. Then, he continued with the story.

The grandsire who stood tall among all the Kuru kings lay down on the battle ground on a bed of arrows. The battle was called off as soon as the news spread all through the battle field. All the warriors from both the sides came around him with sunken hearts.
Bhishma greeted all those who came to see him.

A pillow for the drooping head

Bhishma said. “Look, my heading is drooping down because no arrow has struck on it from behind. I feel uncomfortable without a support for my head”.

All rushed to bring soft pillows of all size and shape to make the grandsire feel at ease. But, Bhishma turned them all down. He said. “None of these suit a hero like me who is resting on a bed of arrows”. Then, he turned to Arjuna and spoke. “My son, don’t you see that I have nothing for my head to rest on?”

Arjuna guessed what the grandsire had in mind. He struck three arrows into the ground right below his head. The three lodged themselves just to give Bhishma the exact support that he was looking for.

Bhishma was happy. He addressed those around him. “Did you not notice how Arjuna gave me the pillow I was looking for? Give up your mutual enmity and put an end to the war now”.

Duryodhana brought a team of men of medicine to sooth the wounds on the body of the grandsire. But, Bhishma turned them all away. He said. “I shall remain on this bed until the sun turns north. You need only to guard this place until then”.

The Kaurava prince, then, posted men near the grandsire at his call at all times. All, then, went for rest.

Karna with Bhishma

When others left, Karna came alone and prostrated before Bhishma. He announced himself. “Here I am, the son of the charioteer and whom you disliked all along”.

Bhishma welcomed Karna and spoke. “Come,My boy! You were always annoyed with me. I know about your birth. You are not the son of Adhiratha (the charioteer), but, of Kunti. I have no anger towards you. True, that I have been treating you harshly. That was only to bring some sense to your mind that kept unfair enmity with the Pandavas. I know that you are equal to Arjuna in most domains of warfare. I also know that you are noble at heart. But, you have been very cruel towards the Pandavas under evil influence. Leave all that now. Your place is with the Pandavas and not with those who have caused great suffering to them”.

Karna said that he was aware of his true birth. But, he did not want to abandon Duryodhana who made him what he was.

Bhishma heard what Karna had to say. He thought that it was difficult to change what was in store. So, he blessed Karna and remained on his bed of arrows waiting for his time of death.

To quench the thirst

All gathered around the fallen hero next morning. Bhishma complained about acute thirst. Everyone hurried to bring exotic drinks to make Bhishma happy. But, the grandsire refused even to look at them. He said. “I am not after worldly enjoyment any more”. He, then, turned to Arjuna and repeated his request.

The Pandava hero pulled an arrow from his Gandiva chanting a Mantra that invoked water (Parjanya Astram) and despatched it to the ground close to the grandsire. The arrow penetrated deep into the earth. To the astonishment of all around, a fountain of fresh cool water arose from the ground that fell on the face of Bhishma. The grandsire was satisfied and felt extremely pleased with the feat of his favourite grand nephew. He said. “This is not surprising from you, the best among Kurus!”

Then, he called Duryodhana to his side and advised him. “Did you not see the unique feat of Arjuna? There are no secrets (Mantras) in the entire science of archery that Arjuna does not know about. You can never match his skill in battle. It is better that you have peace with him before he burns down your entire army down. Get into a treaty with the Pandavas before they kill your remaining brothers. Let all enmities end with me. Let live all those valiant warriors who are left with you and with the Pandavas. Let the war end with my death”.

But, Duryodhana kept quiet even after hearing the well meaning words spoken by Bhishma from his bed of arrows.

Thus ends the 10th day of war, the chapter on the “Fall of Bhishma (Bhishma Vadha Parvam)” and the “Book of Bhishma (Bhishma Parvam)”

The War – Day 10 (Part 2)

Duryodhana seeks Bhishma’s help

Arjuna, meanwhile, was fighting a terrible battle in the company of his brother, Bhima. The two unleashed so ferocious an attack that the entire Kaurava army, far and near, started to flee in panic. None of the veterans on the Kaurava side could check the onslaught of the Pandava brothers.

Duryodhana was in two minds. On one hand he wanted to guard his grand father from danger. On the other, there was none else on his side who dared to face the Pandavas. Finally, he sought the help of Bhishma. The Kaurava prince said. “Sir, There is no one else other than you who could offer resistance to Arjuna and Bhima.”

Bhishma was lost in thought for a while. Then, he replied. “Son, I shall fulfill my obligation by killing tens of thousands of Pandavas today.” With those words the grandsire drove his chariot to where Arjuna stood.

The Pandavas noticed the move by Bhishma. That was the opportunity they were waiting for. Arjuna spoke to Sikhandi. “O! Valiant prince! This is your chance for revenge. Have no fear for the aged Kaurava. I shall be right behind making sure no harm comes to you. Go and challenge Bhishma.” Arjuna, thus rushed forward to his grand father keeping Sikhandi in front.

Others on the Pandava side like Yudhishthira, Nakula, Sahadeva, Abhimanyu, Virata, Drupada and Dhrishtadyumna all launched simultaneous attacks against the grandsire.

Dussasana came forward to block the Path of Arjuna and Sikhandi. He fought alone against the two heros. He held on for a while, but, was overwhelmed by the torrent of arrows that were launched from Gandiva which pierced through his armour. He had to take refuge behind Bhishma for a while. Then, after recovering strength, he came forward again to face the enemy bodly.

Alamusha and Bhagadatta met Satyaki on the way and fought valiantly against the Yadava hero. Kripa faced Sahadeva. Similarly, other Kauravas blocked the advance of the Pandava warriors towards Bhishma.

Drona in anguish

The teacher of Kauravas was highly apprehensive of danger that day. He spoke to his son, Aswatthama. “Son, I see several bad omens today. A great calamity is to befall on us. But strangely, I am unable to do anything myself. Something beyond me makes my hands unsteady and body weak. Arjuna is launching an ominous attack against the grandsire, keeping Sikhandi in front. The other Pandava heros like Bhima are also with him with the sole objective of putting an end to the life of the grandsire. Go and block their way as best as you can”.

Bhima in terrible form

Bhima was in extremely fearful form that day. He found himself encircled by ten of the best Kaurava warriors. Yet, he fought with all his might without yielding even a bit of ground to the enemy. Arjuna noticed the uneven attack and came to the aid of his brother.

The war on that front grew fierce. The Pandavas gave a spirited battle wrecking havoc on the Kaurava army.

Bhishma dejected

Bhishma, on his part, was fighting tooth and nail in spite of his age and tiring limbs. He, as promised, killed tens of thousand on the Pandava side. But, by then, the grandsire has had enough. There was no count of the number of lives he had taken so far. He thought that he had done enough in life. Bhishma found Yudhishthira fighting not too far from him. He sought the attention of the Pandava and spoke. “I feel that it is time for me to go. Do not delay launching an attack against me keeping Sikhandi in front”.

Yudhishthira got all his star fighters around and persuaded them to go for the grandsire in a concerted attack, keeping the cover of Sikhandi.

Thus grew the intensity of war on the tenth day focusing on Bhishma. Arjuna, finally, broke through all the obstacles on his path and gained on the grandsire keeping Sikhandi in front all the time.

Fall of the great warrior

Bhishma found himself surrounded by all the great Pandava heroes at the same time. Even with a resolve to embrace death the warrior in him could not accept defeat without a fight. He fought fiercely and tormented all his opponents with his bow and arrows. It was only against Sikhandi that he did not raise his weapons.

Bhishma spoke to Dussasana who was nearby. “Look, Arjuna is sending thousands of arrows aimed at me. There is none in war to match him. Yet, nobody could have won over me without the cover of Sikhandi”.

He remarked whenever an arrow struck him. “These arrows arriving like thunder bolts are from Arjuna, not from Sikhandi. These that tear through my skin and pierce into my nerves are from the Pandava and not from the Panchala. The ones which strike me like highly poisonous snakes are none except those from the middle Pandava. Without doubt, these arrows that eat my flesh like a young crab eating its mother’s body are from Arjuna, not from Sikhandi”.

Arjuna, after a prolonged battle, managed to cut the bow of Bhishma. Undaunted, the grandsire hurled a javelin against his foe which the Pandava intercepted before it could do any damage. With great resolve the gransire tried, as though, to jump of his chariot with sword in hand.

Then, he fell. The hero who fought like a lion throughout his life without knowing defeat fell down from his chariot struck with arrows all over his body. There were so many of them that his body did not even touch the ground. It was, as though, he was laid to rest on a bed of arrows.

Waiting for his time

But, the grandsire did not die as yet. Death was in his control for the son of Ganga. It is said that some sages from heaven arrived right at that time asking him to wait until the sun turned toward the northern solstice which was said to be auspicious. That was what Bhishma did, though he was lying on a bed of arrows.

When Bhishma fell the war stopped automatically. All, both from the Kaurava and Pandava sides, rushed to the great Bharata warrior and gathered around the hero with folded hands. There was gloom all through the army of the two sides.

(To be Continued)

The War – Day 10 (Part 1)

Yudhishthira takes counsel

Night had fallen on the ninth day of war. The Pandavas suffered badly that day at the hands of Bhishma. They were exhausted both physically and mentally. Sleep was eluding them thinking of the terror let loose by the grandsire against their forces. Yudhishthira was in the company of his brothers and Krishna. He spoke. “Krishna, did you notice how our grand father (uncle) moved like an elephant in a pool with lotus flowers through our army and destroyed everything on his way? It was difficult even to look at the grandsire when he was in that terrible form. With him in the enemy ranks we have no hopes of victory. It pains me that I cause the death of thousands of valiant soldiers for my sake which is hopeless. It is, probably, better that I become an ascetic and abandon all desires for kingdom and power.”

Krishna tried to console him. He said. “Do not worry, O! Son of the god of death (Dharmaputra)! Allow me to fight and I shall kill Bhishma all alone.”

But, Yudhishthira did not want Krishna to break his word on his account. Then, he remembered the promise made by his grandfather on the very first day of war. Bhishma had asked Yudhishthira to approach him later to get tips on the way to defeat him.

Krishna thought that it was an excellent idea. The Pandavas, along with Krishna, went that night to meet Bhishma. All bowed in front of the aged warrior who had not met with defeat all his life.

The most valuable tip

Bhishma welcomed them with all his heart and asked what he could do for them. Yudhishthira spoke. “Sir, you leave no chance for us to attack you. With you in the Kaurava ranks we have no hopes of victory. When you are in the present formidable form there is none on earth who could face you in battle. Please tell us how we could fight with you”.

Bhishma smiled and said. “True, there is none who could win a war against my army while I am alive. But, I have already told you of my resolve not to fight against any who is born as a woman. You have the Panchala youth, Sikhandi, who had taken birth as a princess. Let Arjuna attack me keeping Sikhandi in his front. I shall not raise arms against the Panchala. Arjuna will find gaps in my defenses that way. This is your only way to defeat me”.

Arjuna in delemma

The Pandavas returned home highly pleased. But, Arjuna was in two minds. He spoke to Krishna. “How can I do that against my own grandfather? I remember my childhood days when I used to climb on to his laps in my soiled dress. He used to embrace me with great love and kindness. I also have tremendous respect and love towards him. How can I raise my weapons against that venerable person?”

But, Krishna reminded his friend of the pledge given by him that he will kill Bhishma in battle. There was no other way for the Pandavas to win the war. Krishna, with his persuasive words managed to convince Arjuna to do the task as the duty of warrior (Kshatriya).

The Battle formation

The Pandavas got into a formation called “destruction of all enemies (Sarva Satru Haram)” on the tenth day. Sikhandi stood in the front. Bhima and Arjuna guarded the two wings. Abhimanyu and the sons of Draupadi stood at the back. All the other Pandava warriors followed from behind.

The Pandavas surged ahead into the Kaurava army in that formation. They could make heavy damages in the enemy from the beginning. Duryodhana was greatly worried. He approached Bhishma. “Grandfather, you are our only hope against this concerted attack from the Pandavas. Please thwart their attack with all your might. The best of our warriors like Drona, Salya, Kripa and Aswatthama are all there to support you.”

Bhishma was thoughtful for a while. Then, with a resign he said. “Let that be so. I shall face the Pandavas. Today I shall repay my obligation to you by killing thousands in the Pandava side”.
The Pandavas noticed the arrival of the grandsire by the great wedge he created within their army. Arjuna asked Sikhandi to attack the grandsire with all his might. He, Arjuna, would be there right behind to protect him. All the veterans on the Pandava side, like Yudhishthira, Nakula, Sahadeva, Abhimanyu, Dhrishtadyumna, Drupada and Virata all soon joined the attack against Bhishma. Duryodhana, noticing danger, sent the best of his fighters to block the path of the approaching Pandavas against Bhishma.

Dussasana against Arjuna and Sikhandi

It was Dussasana who dared to challenge Arjuna’s march forward. The Kaurava offered stiff resistance for a long while. But, the sharp arrows from Gandiva pierced through his armour and lodged deep in his body. He appeared like a tree with thorns that blossomed with red flowers. Dussasana had to retreat and take temporary refuge behind Bhishma.

Alambusha and Bhagadatta faced Satyaki. A great battle was fought between the two sides. Aswatthama attacked Virata and Drupada at the same time. The son of Drupada fought like a hero against the two veterans on the Pandava side. Severeal other duels were fought that day, the Pandavas trying to close in on Bhishma and the Kauravas trying to push them back.

(To be Continued)

The War – Day 9 (Part 2)

Inroduction

The main purpose of Veda Vyasa in writing down the great epic, Mahabharatam, was, apparently, to highlight the horrors of war. The sage repeatedly writes about it in the context of each day’s fighting. We shall give a summary of it in this episode. Vyasa also brings out how all the rules and etiquettes that were originally agreed upon by both the parties soon got totally disregarded. We shall soon see several examples of it both from the Kauravas and Pandavas.

Duels on the ninth day

Arjuna met his dear teacher, Drona, in a straight combat that day. The Acharya fought without any consideration for his favourite disciple. Arjuna also ignored the usual deep respect with which he treated his teacher. This was war and for a warrior (Kshatriya) fighting at one’s best was all that mattered. The two fought all through the morning and it was difficult to judge in whose favour the balance tilted.

Bhagadatta attacked Bhima with a large army of elephants. The Pandava hero, Bhima, fought without bothering about his own safety. He destroyed a large number of elephants that day. The rest ran amok into the Kaurava army causing large scale destruction.

The horrors of war

The war grew in intensity. Great was the destruction it caused on every encounter. Chariots clashed against each other resulting in great number of deaths. In many cases the charioteers were killed in the conflicts and the horses ran out of control, thereby causing further destruction.
That was the same case with the elephant army. Wounded elephants and those with their mahouts killed ran their own way trampling on soldiers and other beasts of war all along their path. Thousands of elephants were also killed and their carcasses filled the battle field like mounds of rock.

Bodies of warriors were littered all through the vast ground. One could hear cries for help from those who were wounded and left to die in the field. One would also see scattered limbs of humans and beasts chopped off from the body by the enemies’ arrows or swords.

Blood oozing out of the thousands of dead and wounded flowed like a stream. Dead bodies of men floated on it like rafts in a river. Dead elephants resembled large mounds and chariots appeared like whirlpools. The head gear of soldiers floated like foam in the water.

Soldiers from either side were aghast looking at the scale of destruction and cursed Duryodhana for causing that.

Though some such comments reached the Kaurava prince, he continued to call on his men to fight even harder.

Bhishma in terrible form

The Pandavs closed down on the grandsire in the afternoon. He was the biggest obstacle on their way to victory. Duryodhana was always careful not to expose his grandfather to dangers. So, he sent Dussasana and Sakuni with a large army in support of Bhishma. The Kaurava warriors arrived, destroying the Pandava army that blocked their way. Yudhishthira and the sons of Madri went to check their onslaught. A fierce battle ensued between the two parties. The Pandavas inflicted heavy damage on the attacking Kauravas and blew on their conch shells claiming victory. The remaining Kauravas ran for their lives.

Duryodhana could not tolerate the defeat of his veteran fighters. He sent Salya to take revenge on the Pandavas. The king of Madra faced his own nephews in a terrible battle that lasted the whole of afternoon. Neither side had any decisive edge in that fight.

Bhishma was in a terrible form that day. He destroyed the Pandava army wherever he moved. The sound that emerged from his bow strings terrified the whole battle field. None could face the grandsire in that form in which he destroyed everything that came his way.

Krishna takes up arms

Krishna pointed out the trail of destruction caused by the formidable Kaurava to Arjuna. He said. “Arjuna, the time has come for you to discharge your duty. If you do not kill the grandsire now, he will leave none on our side alive.”

Krishna, then, drove the chariot to face Bhishma. The Pandava forces were encouraged by the move and came back to face the enemy with renewed vigour.

Arjuna fought hard against his grandfather. He cut several of his bows one by one and Bhishma applauded the skill displayed by his favourite grand nephew.

Then, he remembered his own promise to Duryodhana, to fight to the best of his ability. So, Bhishma started sending sharp arrows in quick succession. Arjuna was overwhelmed by the counter attack from the grandsire.

Krishna was angry that Arjuna was reluctant to fight against his grandfather. He jumped out of the chariot and rushed to Bhishma with his discus, Sudarshanam, in hand.

Bhishma was not worried to find Krishna rushing to kill him. He said. “Come, O! My Lord! I am ready to die at your hands. Then, I shall reach that world from which I will not have to return to earth again”.

Arjuna was aghast with the turn of events. He rushed after Krishna and somehow pulled him back. He said. “Krishna, please remember your word that you will not take up arms in this war. Please leave the fighting to me”.

Arjuna tried to fight against Bhishma with all his might. But, nothing worked against the Kaurava commander. Large was the destruction caused by him that day. It was clear to the Pandavas that, if Bhishma continued like that, there will be none to fight on their side. When the sun set in the western horizon the Pandavas were totally dispirited without knowing what they could against the grandsire.

The ninth day’s battle thus ended with heavy losses on the Pandava side. The Pandavas needed to do something drastic and that too quickly before it was too late.

The War – Day 9

Duryodhana conspires with friends

The Kauravas met with consecutive defeats in the first eight days of war. Duryodhana felt dejected. He had the best of warriors like Bhishma and Drona. His army was far too mightier compared with what the Pandavas had. He could not understand why he could not annihilate the entire Pandava army by then. The Kaurava prince opened his heart to his friend, Karna, uncle Sakuni and brother Dussasana.

Karna spoke to cheer up his dear friend. “Do not lose heart, O! the best of Bharatas. Let Bhishma retire from the commandership. Then, I shall defeat and kill all the Pandavas and defeat their entire forces.

Duryodhana thought that it was a great idea. He immediate ordered a chariot to be made ready for his journey to meet the grandsire.

Duryodhana with Bhishma

The Kaurava prince went straight to meet his grand father. Bhishma was taking rest after the day’s war that wore down his aged limbs. Duryodhana bowed before the grandsire and spoke. “Sir, we have depended entirely on you for victory in this war. We have enough resources even to defeat all the gods, let alone the trivial force of the Pandavas. I ask for only one thing from you. Please kill the five Pandava brothers. I shall take care of the rest”. Both Duryodhana and Bhishma knew that that was something the grandsire would never do. It was a subtle message to Bhishma to leave the stage for others.

Duryodhana’s words hurt Bhishma like poisonous arrows. He was also greatly angered. The grandsire kept quiet for a while. Then he spoke. “Why do you torment me like this? I have been trying my best, in spite of my age, even being ready to sacrifice my life. You sounded as though winning over the Pandavas is that easy. One single example of Arjuna winning the Gandiva bow and succeeding to burn down the entire Khandava forest even by defeating Indra is enough to counter that argument. Where was your valour when the Gandharva tied you and your brothers up and it took the power of the Pandavas to let you free? What about the misadventure in the land of Virata when Arjuna, single handedly, defeated us all? Now, with Krishna to guide them in the war do you think you can win over them that easily?”

Bhishma kept quiet for a while and continued. “Yet, I shall fight till my end for your sake. But, remember my words. I shall not kill the Pandavas nor fight against Sikhandi. You will have to do that. I shall do the rest”

Duryodhana was pleased with the assurance. He went back and asked Dussasana, “make sure that all of us protect the grandsire. Do not let the Pandavas or Sikhandi near him at any time. Then, victory is certain to be ours”.

The Kauravas deployed their army in a “perfect in all respect (Sarvatobhadram)” formation. The Pandavas got into an appropriate counter arrangement.

Bad Omen

It is said that several bad omen appeared when the war started that day. A large number of birds flew overhead making fearful noises. The sun rose in the east, but, without the usual brightness. The wind blew fiercely. Jackals howled in great numbers. Comets appeared in the eastern sky. There was fear everywhere that great calamity was at store.

Abhimanyu’s Valour

The son of Arjuna started the attack on the ninth day. He drove his chariot straight into the Kaurava army and started killing the enemy in large numbers. No one dared to check the onslaught of the young Pandava. Even the great warriors like Drona and Kripa were confused wondering how to hold this brave Pandava prince who fought so brilliantly leaving no gaps in his own defenses for a counter attack. The Kaurava army started to flee in all directions letting out cries of agony and fear.

Duryodhana was worried. He approached Alambusha saying that he alone could face the formidable Pandava prince and restore the order in the Kaurava ranks. The demon was greatly pleased with the prospect of a good fight and let out a cry by way of challenge. Abhimanyu was amused and was happy that he was going to have a worthy opponent. He was ready with his bow and arrows to welcome the demon. But, the Pandavas did not want to risk the life of the young prince against the might demon. The five Panchala princes arrived on the scene to guard Abhimanyu all around. Alambusha, soon, broke into the defenses placed by the Panchalas and reached Abhimanyu for a straight duel. Abhimanyu was waiting for his opportunity to show his skill. He sent sharp arrows in quick succession aimed at the mighty demon. Alambusha, soon, realized that the he fared no chance against his young opponent in a straight combat. So, he made use of his secret weapons that created illusion (Maya). Abhimanyu was confused for a short while, but, soon discovered the trick of the demon. He had learnt appropriate weapons to counter those that made illusion. The demon was soon exposed and found himself facing the valiant son of Arjuna in straight combat. A large number of arrows sent from the bow of Abhimanyu pierced into the chest of the demon. Alambusha could stand the young hero any more and he took flight, thereby creating further despair in the Kaurava army.

(The ninth day’s war to continue in the next episode)

Ghatotkacha against Duryodhana

The demon, Ghatotkacha, was nearby when Iravan was killed by Alambusha. Before he could do anything all was over. Ghatotkacha was in pain and in great anger. He let out a terrible roar challenging the entire Kaurava army and started butchering the Kaurava army mercilessly.
Duryodhana knew that he had to do something before the matter was out of hand. He arrived with a huge force comprising thousands of elephant mounted soldiers and stood blocking the way of Ghatotkacha. Sighting the Kaurava, the son of Bhima roared. “Today I shall take revenge for all your misdeeds against my father and uncles”. So saying, he attacked Duryodhana with all his might.

A terrible fight ensued between the son of Bhima and the Kaurava. Bhishma heard the roar let out by Ghatotkacha and suspected that Duryodhana’s life might be in danger. He asked all the mighty warriors like Drona, Salya, Kripa and Aswatthama to go in support of the Kaurava prince. Ghatotkacha was unconcerned finding the reinforcement from the Kaurava ranks. He continued his onslaught against the enemies with renewed vigour. The Kauravas, on their part, started sending powerful arrows aimed at the chest of Ghatotkacha. Many pierced through his body. The demon roared again, this time because of all the arrows that were stuck on his body making him resemble a porcupine.

Yudhishthira heard the roar and sensed that the son of Bhima was facing a concerted attack from the enemies. He asked Bhima to go in support of his son along with Abhimanyu and many other able warriors. The arrival of Bhimasena on the scene turned the Kaurava faces pale because of all the recent reverses they experienced on account of him. The battle grew in intensity. At the end the Pandavas managed to force the Kaurava army to retreat.

Duryodhana did not like what was happening. He came forward and faced Bhima on his own. The Pandava was struck by several sharp arrows sent by the Kaurava prince. Bhima lost his balance at one stage and was floored on his chariot, unable to hold himself up.

Ghatotkacha was angered by the sight of his father suffering at the hands of his arch rival. He fought even harder to punish the Kaurava army further. He used his powers of illusion and made it appear as though thousands like him attacked the Kauravas with bows, arrows, javelins, swords and all sorts of weapons. The Kaurava army was frightened beyond words by this and it started dispersing in all directions.

Duryodhana complains to Bhishma

Duryodhana rushed to the grandsire reporting the turn of events. He complained that, if that was how his grand father desired, then, he would risk his own life and face Ghatotkacha alone. Bhishma consoled Duryodhana and sent Bhagadatta against the demon. The king of Pragjyotisha was particularly effective fighting on his well trained elephant, called Supratheekam. Bhagadatta managed to inflict heavy casualties on the Pandava army with his specialized elephant warfare.

It was only towards the evening that Arjuna came to know of his dear son’s death. He was in great pain. He lamented in front of Krishna that the war should have been avoided in the first place, if its consequence was so severe. Krishna managed to console his dear friend.

The Pandavas continued their fight against the Kauravas, now with a vengeance. Several brothers of Duryodhana surrounded Bhima in a combined attack. The Pandava killed nine of them. The rest of the Kauravas ran here and there unable to face Bhima in that mood. Thus, Bhima’s tally for the day was seventeen sons of Dhritarashtra.

The day ended with heavy casualties on either side.

The War – Day 8

The Battle Formations

Bhishma arranged his army like an ocean surging high with mighty waves. Yudhishthira noticed the unusual formation of the Kaurava army and consulted Dhrishtadyumna on the most effective way to counter that. The Panchala prince chose one resembling a mountain with two peaks. Bhima stood at one peak and Satyaki stood at the other. Arjuna guarded what would be the navel and at the heart stood Yudhishthira. Abhimanyu, Virata, Ghatotkacha and the sons of Draupadi filled other vital positions of the formation. Then, the two armies marched against each other.

Bhima against Bhishma

The grandsire was in a terrible form that day. He started destroying the Panchala contingent of the Pandava army in large numbers. None of the Pandava princes who were nearby dared to face Bhishma in that form- except for Bhimasena. The Pandava gave a tough fight to Bhishma.

Duryodhana observed that and sent eight of his brothers to support the commander of his army. Without bothering about who else stood against him, Bhima continued his attack on Bhishma. He managed to kill the charioteer of the grandsire with the result that the horses ran amok carrying the him with them. Bhima used that occasion to kill all the eight sons of Dhritarashtra who opposed him, one by one. The morning session ended in that fashion.

Duryodhana with Bhishma

The death of more of his brothers saddened Duryodhana to a great deal. He complained to Bhishma that the grandsire was being partial to the Pandavas. Bhishma was in great pain hearing the stinging words from the Kaurava. He reminded Duryodhana of the wise counsel given to him by himself, Drona and Vidura on several occasions. He also pointed out how invincible the Pandavas were even by the gods. Yet, Bhishma promised, that he would do his best.

Dhritarashtra with Sanjaya

Elsewhere, Dhritarashtra was listening to the current events of the war from his minister, Sanjaya. The blind king also lamented the loss of his sons. Sanjaya, too, reminded his king that he chose not to listen to the advices from all the wise men against a war with the Pandavas. Sanjaya, then, continued reporting the war as was happening in the afternoon.

The Pandavas were fighting a pitched battle against Bhishma . Duryodhana sent all his great warriors to support Bhishma on the two sides. Then, The Pandavas split their attack into three prongs. The middle, comprising the four young Pandavas continued their attack on Bhishma. The others faced the Kaurava army from the left and right sides

The Great Iravan

Iravan, the brave son of Arjuna fought with a vengeance that day. He faced the six brothers of Sakuni( the princes of Gandhara) who made a combined attack against him. Iravan was not bothered that he was outnumbered by the attackers. He fought bravely and killed all the six Gandhara princes one by one.

Duryodhana was greatly angered by the news. He sent the demon Alambusha against Iravan. The two fought fiercely against each other for a while. Then, Alambusha started employing his magic by creating the illusion that thousands of demons had surrounded the Naga prince. Iravan soon got totally confused. Alambusha used the opportunity to chop off the head of the Naga with his sword.

The Pandava forces were in turmoil after their great warrior was killed.

(The eighth day of war to be continued)

War – Day (continued)

Introduction

It is worth mentioning a couple of interesting points on the war at this stage. It started as one with strict principles ( Dharma Yuddha). That meant that all tried to follow the rules strictly, at least in the beginning. One guiding principle was that enmity was only on the battle field. When the battles ended for the day all were supposed to forget any hard feelings and mix among themselves as friends. It is heartening to read the description of the opposite camps mixing freely in good spirit in the evenings.

It is true, that each warrior faced his enemy with a resolve to fight until death, either of his own or of his opponent. Yet, there was good sportsman spirit on the field. Show of bravery and skill was normally applauded even by the enemy.

There was a festive atmosphere all around in the wars, in spite of their seriousness. When great battles were fought those in combat nearby forgot their own, watched the heroes demonstrating their superior skills and applauded. That even gods and other celestial beings assembled in the sky to watch the famous battles is a testimony to this.

Other important encounters on the seventh day

Iravan, the brave son of Arjuna, faced Vinda and Anuvinda that day, alone. The Naga prince harassed the two Avanti princes right from the beginning and finally made the two flee from the battle field.

Ghatotkacha fought bravely against Bhagadatta for a long time. The formidable son of son Bhima normally was fearless. Yet, the demon was made to run away from the field by the king of Pragjyotisha, who then inflicted heavy casualties on the Pandava army.

Nakula and Sahadeva found themselves face top face against their own uncle, Salya. The king of Madra scored in the beginning by killing the horses of Nakula. He, then, continued to fight from the chariot of his brother, Sahadeva. Sahadeva, after a while, managed to drive a few of his shafts into the chest of Salya with the result that the latter fell down on the floor of his chariot, losing his consciousness.

Kripa, the teacher of the Kauravas and Pandavas, faced Chekitana, the Vrishni prince. The two fought bitterly for a long while. Both lost their chariots, and yet, continued to fight on the ground. They used maces and sword and were determined to fight to the end. Finally, both lost their consciousness and fell down on the ground. Friends from either side came to take them away.

Abhimany stood firm against three sons of Dhritarashtra. He could have killed all the three that day. But, he remembered the pledge taken by his uncle, Bhima, that he would, himself, kill all the sons of Dhritarashtra . So, Abhimanyu let the Kaurava princes flee from the field.

Yudhishthira in an unusual mood

The Pandava king was not his usual self that day. He found thousands of his men perishing at the hands of the grandsire. He got into an extreme mood of anger and fought ferociously against the veteran, Bhishma, without worrying about his own safety. Slowly, all his brothers joined him one by one. The Paqndavas knew that the war will not turn in their favour as long as Bhishma lived. So, Yudhishthira openly called on his brothers to put an end to the life of the grandsire. He even ridiculed Sikhandi that it was a hollow promise that he made, that he would kill Bhishma.

The Kauravas realized that there was danger to the life of their commander. Kripa, Salya and other veterans on the Kaurava side soon joined Bhishma to thwart the attack from the Pandavas. The battle only grew in intensity as the sun turned red in the western horizon. But, all started feeling the exhaustion from the long day’s battle and it was decided that fighting should stop for the day. Then, all forgot their enmity and took rest freely mixing with the opposite side.

With this ends the seventh day’s war.

The War – Day 7

The heroes on both the sides who played important roles on the 7th day of war

Alambusha – A Demon of great strength and an important ally of the Kauravas
Bhagadatta – The king of Pragjyotisha who fought several famous battles on the
Kaurava side on his battle trained elephant
Iravan – a son of Arjuna, born of the Naga princess, Uloopi who fought on the
Pandava side
Kritavarma – A Yadava prince of the Vrishni clan on the Kaurava side
Vinda and Anuvinda – The princes of Avanti who joined the Kaurava side with an Akshauhini of
army

Duryodhana with Bhishma

Duryodhana was a shattered man, both physically and mentally, at the end of the sixth day’s war. He was badly mauled by Bhima in the straight fight between the two. The Kaurava army continued to be thrashed by the Pandava heroes. So, the Kaurava prince went to the grandsire again, as was his habit on the close of battle each day.

He said. "Sir, why is that our army faces defeat day after day at the hands of the Pandavas? We have the best of warriors like you, Drona, Kripa, Salya and so on. We tried different battle formations, thinking that we were safe in each. But, the enemy broke into our defenses each time with ease and inflicted heavy casualties on our side."

Bhishma consoled the prince with soothing words. He said. “Do not lose heart. All our heroes like me, Drona, Salya and Aswatthama are still fighting on your side. Be assured that I shall give my best for your sake.”

With these words the grandsire applied healing ointments to the wounds on Duryodhana’s body pierced by Bhima’s sharp arrows.

Battle formations

Bhishma arranged his army in a circulation formation (Mandala Vyuha) on the seventh day. The outer ring was packed with thousands of brave warriors, in chariots, elephants, horses and on foot. All the heroes stood firmly inside giving solid support from within.

The Pandavas knew of only one way to be affective against that, making a formation like the thunderbolt (Vajra Vyuha).

Arjuna starts the attack

Arjuna watched all the Kaurava heroes inside the Mandala Vyuha and asked Krishna to drive the chariot straight into the Kaurava army. The arrival of the middle Pandava (Arjuna) created terror in the Kaurava ranks. No one from among the kaurava side dared to face Arjuna with his Gandiva. Then, all saw Bhishma arriving himself on the scene to check the advance of Arjuna into his army ranks. The two fought fiercely against each other for a long time that day.

Virata against Drona

Elsewhere, Drona met the Matsya king, Virata in combat. Drona cut several bows of Virata one by one. Finally, he also killed the horses and charioteer of the Matsya. Virata found his son, Sankha nearby and jumped into his chariot. The two, father and son, then made a combined attack against the formidable Acharya. Drona sent a powerful arrow carefully targeting Sankha. The Matsya prince was killed instantaneously by the shaft that pierced his heart.

Virata was in anguish. Two of his sons, Sweta and Uttara, were already killed earlier. This was too much for him. He fled from the scene unable to face Drona any more. The Acharya used the opportunity to inflict heavy casualties on the Pandava army.

Sikhandi facing Aswatthama

The Panchala prince, Sikhandi, found himself pitched against Aswatthama, the formidable son of Drona. Sikhandi, faced the arrows boldly coming from the son of Drona in quick succession. Aswatthama cut all his bows into pieces. Finally, his horses and charioteer were also killed. Undaunted, Sikhandi jumped down and ran to his enemy with his sword held in hand. But, the son of Drona cut the sword of Sikhandi also into pieces. Satyaki was fighting nearby. Sikhandi had, then, to escape into Satyaki’s chariot to save himself from further harm.

Satyaki was fighting with the demon, Alambusha. At one stage, the demon used weapons that created illusion on Satyaki. But, the latter knew the secret of the weapon called Aindra (of Indra) that nullified the illusion created by Alambusha. From then on, Satyaki gave no respite to the demon from his arrows that were sent in quick succession. Finally, Alambusha fled in panic from the scene.

Dhrishtadyumna found himself paired against Duryodhana. The Panchala prince harassed the Kaurava and won a decisive battle against him. Similarly, Bhimasena defeated Krutavarma in a straight combat. The result of these defeats caused great damage in the Kaurava army.

(The 7th day’s war to continue in the next episode)