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)”

The story of the strange mongoose

The guests who attended Yudhishthira’s horse sacrifice were, one by one, returning to their places with contended face. There was loud acclaim from each throat : “there was nothing in the past to match this sacrifice of the Pandavas, it is unlikely that there will be anything like it in future, too!”

It was then that a voice was heard: “Nothing compared to that of the Brahmin of Kurukshetra who lived by begging for his daily meal (unccha vrutti)!” All eyes turned in the direction of the voice and could find none, but a mongoose. It was an ordinary mongoose except that half of its body appeared golden. The strange animal repeated: “The sacrifice of the Pandavas stands nowhere near that of the Brahmin who lived by begging for his daily meal (unchha vrutti) and , yet, gave away his share of powdered barley!”

The animal spoke clearly in human voice. It was also emphatic in its pronouncement. Many of the great Brahmins who had played vital roles in the sacrifice were still present at that time. They asked him in a surprised tone. “Who are you and why do you say this? We followed he scriptures to the letter in every aspect of the ritual. Every item offered to the fire was pure and the Mantras were correctly chanted by scholars. Gifts were given away so freely that every one left the venue satisfied to the core. We are surprised that, yet, you make this dubious statement”

The mongoose said. “Listen to me carefully. What I said is true and I did not say so with any prejudice. I am going to recount something that I saw and experienced.”

The Brahmin who lived by begging

Then, the mongoose narrated its story. There was a Brahmin in Kurukshetra who lived with his wife, son and daughter-in-law. The whole family spent their time in prayers and ate only once a day at noon, that too, by begging just for that meal (unccha vrutti). They kept nothing for the next day, and gave away anything more than what they needed for that meal.

Then, a severe famine hit the people of the country. There was not enough food to go by even for those who farmed the land. The Brahmin and his family roamed around in the hot sun on empty stomach for food and got nothing for several days in a stretch. But, they remained contended, with their minds deep in thought on god.

A desperately needed meal

Then, after days without food, the Brahmin was lucky to get some barley which they roasted and powdered. What they got was barely enough for the four of them for a meal. Yet, they offered one share to the gods into the fire. Then, the Brahmin thanked god for his kindness and divided what was left equally among the four. They were about to appease their acute hunger with the barley meal.

A guest just in time

Then, there was a knock on the door of their hut. It was a visitor, hungry and haggard, looking for food. A guest any time of the day, especially at meal time, was normally welcome, considered to be god sent. Even when suffering with severe pangs of hunger, the Brahmin welcomed his guest with a smiling face. He gave him the customary water for washing his feet and a mat to sit down. Next, he placed his own share of the barley powder in front of the hungry guest. The visitor ate what was given to him, but, appeared not satisfied.

The partner in sorrow

Then, the Brahmin’s wife, frail with days of fasting, came forwarded and offered her share of meal for giving to the guest. Her husband objected. He said. “Even the low lying creatures take care of their wives. How can I permit you to do this? It is my duty to protect you at all times. I know how hungry you are. I shall be committing a sin, if I let you forsake your meal at this critical time”. But, the good lady persisted. She replied. “As your duly wedded wife, is it not my duty to be with you in happiness and sorrow? Please offer our guest my share of the meal and let him leave our house satisfied.”

The Brahmin had no answer for the wise words of his wife and he fed the guest with his wife’s share of the barley powder. Yet, the visitor appeared still hungry.

The dutiful son

Then, came the Brahmin’s son in front of his father saying, “as your son it is my duty to assist you in all ways in your old age. Your guest is mine, too. Please offer this food to him and let him go satisfied.”

The Brahmin was taken aback by his gesture. He said. “Even when you are a thousand years old, you are just a boy to me and it is my duty to protect you. I cannot let you die of hunger.” But, his son did not budge from his stand arguing that his father’s interest was his, too. Failing to counter his son’s logic with good reason and choking with emotion, the Brahmin offered the share of his son, too, to the guest. And yet, he found the visitor’s face yearning for more.

Ultimately, the daughter-in-law placed her own share of meal in front of the guest insisting that she stood by the common interest of the family.

The Guest in his true form

The guest accepted the last morsel of meal left in the house and got up. Then he said. “I am fully satisfied with the steadfast adherence to the right path (Dharma) by you and your family. Know that I am, in fact, the god of Dharma, who came in person to test your merits. You and your family are free from all human bondage and are ready to ascend to heaven, the world of the evolved souls.

The half luck of the mongoose

At that time a heavenly vehicle appeared on the scene and carried the Brahmin and his family heavenwards.

The mongoose concluded its story saying, “I was in my den watching the entire scene and hearing the whole conversations. When they all left I ventured out and happened to come into contact with the barley powder that was spilled on the ground and with the water that had come in contact with the feet of the visitor. To my surprise, my body turned golden instantaneously. Unfortunately, there was too little left over there to cover even my small body, with the result that it is only part of me that turned into gold. I have been going round all over the land wherever great sacrifices took place and tried to roll my body over the ground there with no luck. I had heard a great deal about the Horse Sacrifice of Yudhishthira also, and arrived here hoping that I may have better luck this time. But, look, not even one more hair of my body has turned golden as a result.”

Thus, concluded the mongoose with golden body its story of a real sacrifice. We shall learn more of sacrifices without killing in the next episode.

The Horse Sacrifice

Introduction

While going through various episodes of Mahabharata we have come across sacrificial ritual (yajna or yaaga) of various types. The Rajasooya conducted by Yudhishthira, himself, was an example. We have talked about various Yajnas conducted by sages in many of our stories. The horse sacrifice that we are going to witness is one such.

The basic feature of all is the same as is described briefly below. Outwardly, the hutments in which the rituals are held will look alike, though the exact form of the platform (citi) may differ. All will have the basic components like Agni Cayana, Pravargya, Somabhishavanam, Savana and Avabhritha Snana, as discussed below. The Mantras used may differ from one to another. The number of days may also vary from one to a complete year or even more.

The nature of the sacrifice, the animal or animals used, may also differ. Many may not have any animal sacrifice at all. Such sacrifices, the Yajnas, are said to be the highest point in the ritualistic part of Hinduism.

Babhruvahana arrives

The Naga king, Babhruvahana, was one among the early arrivals for the horse sacrifice. Being the son of the Pandava hero, he did not want to miss any part of the ritual and festivities. His step brother, Iravan, born of the Naga princess Uloopi had died fighting against the demon, Alambusha, on the eighth day of the great Mahabharata war. So, Babhruvahana came with his mother, Citrangada and step mother, Uloopi.

The Pandavas gave a warm welcome to their royal relations from the Naga land..The visitors were taken first to the palaces where Kunti, Dhritarashtra and Gandhari lived. Babhruvahana paid his respect to the elders of his father’s family. Next, they were taken to Subhadra, Draupadi and to the other queens of the Pandavas. All received the visitors with great warmth and bestowed them with precious gifts.

Babhruvahana, next went to Krishna and bowed at the feet of his father’s best friend and benefactor. Krishna received him with great love and gave him several valuable gifts.
The Pandavas, on their part, gave a golden chariot to the Naga king.

The main rituals

Vyasa arrived in time with all his famous disciples. He asked Yudhishthira to start the ceremony on the third day.

A triangular Citi (citi) resembling the wings of Garuda, made out of specially made bricks, had been prepared as the platform where all the main rituals were performed. Its perimeter measured eighteen arm lengths.


Agni Cayana

The first step in any important ritual offering to fire is to create fire by brushing two wooden pieces (araNi) against one another. This is technically called Agni Cayana. This was done with the chanting of appropriate Vedic hymns.

Pravargya

One of the important rituals was called the Pravargya, in which milk mixed with ghee was offered to the fire. The mixture helped to raise the flames high in the air, heaven wards. This was done on different occasions of the ritual.

Somaabhishavanam

Another important function was to crush the Soma (soma) vine, gathered ceremoniously in advance, ritually with its stem and leaves, on specially prepared wooden crucibles. The juice so extracted was the celebrated Soma wine, supposed to be the favourite of gods. The Soma was offered with special chanting of Vedic hymns.

Several Savanas (savana), to mark the auspicious occasion of the mornings, noon times and evenings, were performed in between the main rituals. Ghee was the main offering for these rituals.

The Animal Sacrifice

The most important part of the ritual was the killing of the sacrificial animals. Thirty heads of cattle including the sacrificial horse were already tied to individual posts or Yoopas. They were slaughtered in such a way that their born marrow (vapa) was formed for offering to the fire. The Vapa and every other prescribed part of the animal flesh were offered separately, accompanied by the chanting of appropriate Vedic texts. All those who participated in the ceremony, including the spectators, partook of the Soma, and the animal meat that was left over as the blessing (prasaada) of the sacrifice.

The concluding ceremony

The rituals lasted several days. The setting to fire of the hutments by the one conducting the ritual (yajamaana) marked the end of the sacrifice. Then, all those who participated went to the near by river and took the holy bath (avabrutha snaanam)..It is said that the holy bath wiped out all the sins of the Pandavas which they had accumulated by the killing of their kith and kin in the war.

The Festivities

The rituals were conducted in such an auspicious atmosphere and strictly according to the dictum of the scripts that all the celestial beings appeared in the sky to witness the events. The Gandharvas sang in ecstasy and Apsaras danced forgetting themselves. Even sage Narada arrived on the scene at that time playing on his Tamburu and singing divine music of which he was considered to be the master.

The Gifts

All those who had assembled including the Brahmins who performed and the others who watched said unanimously that there was nothing like the horse sacrifice of Yudhishthira that ever happened any where in this world or in others. Veda Vyasa was highly pleased. He suggested that the priests be offered three times the usual gift (dakshiNa) as the ritual was as good as done three times over. The Pandava king gladly obeyed the words of his mentor and grand father.

Yudhishthira was pleased beyond words. As a mark of his gratitude he offered his entire kingdom as gift (dakshiNa) to the sage. Vyasa smiled and said that he had no use of land. He would be willing to accept gold in its place. So, the Pandava king offered gold equivalent in value for all the land he possessed. Vyasa divided that also among all the Brahmins, keeping one part to himself. He, then, offered his share to Kunti, the queen mother of the Pandavas.

As was the custom, the priests also collected all the utensils and other objects used in the rituals as part of their claim.

Valuable gifts were given to all the guests according to their ranks. All started returning to their respective lands highly pleased with the great event. Yudhishthira expressed his gratitude to Krishna and Balarama and saw them off with gifts of priceless jewels.

The start of Aswamedha

Introduction

The horse sacrifice was considered to be the culmination of the establishment of supremacy by a monarch. It tested the wealth, powers and other resources of the king to their limit. The horse was to roam around freely, without getting challenged by any hostile king on the way. That meant that the monarch had to establish himself as the unquestioned emperor over all the lands in the entire vicinity. It also demanded abundance of wealth, needed to entertain all the invited and uninvited guests and for the gifts to be offered to the performing priests, participating Brahmins and to all the guests in general. It also involved lot of man power and organizational resources for conducting the ceremonies successfully.

It has several aspects. The successful completion of expedition with the horse is only a pre-requisite. The religious part is the actual sacrifice. The word, literally, meant killing of the animals and offering the meat to the fire god, ultimately meant to reach various deities like Indra, Varuna and so on. This, the killing aspect, has been contested ever since of scriptures came into existence. This issue is raised later at the end of the sacrifice.

The Scriptures, called the Brahmanas (braahmaNa), that describe various sacrifices are part of the Vedas. The basic texts of the Vedas (Samhitas) are also extensively used.

Not many had accomplished the task even among all the famous kings. Rama of Ramayana fame had successfully conducted one. It was said that Bali was also one among the elite few.

The auspicious start

The news of Arjuna’s successful victory parade had reached Hastinapura. Then, on the auspicious twelfth day (dwaadaSi) of the month of Magha (maagha), on the day of the star Pushyavasu, Yudhishthira asked Bhima to get the platform and the complex of huts (yaagaSaala) built. Bhima, accordingly, organized a team of artisans and masons well versed in the field and went about the task under the supervision of expert Brahmins. The hutments (Saala) were as per the exact measurements prescribed in the scriptures. It had the central platform, several entrances and passages in between.

Within the huts were erected various poles (yoopa), made of the bark of prescribed trees, like Bilva. Several were made of gold as well. They were meant for tying up the animals for the sacrifice.

All around the hutments were the temporary houses for the visiting kings and Brahmins. The ones for the royal guests were as luxurious as palaces, in accordance to their ranks. Various dining places were also built to suit the convenience of the guests. It is said that stores overflowed with all sorts of food materials in abundance.

Yudhishthira went around the place to satitisfy himself that everything was in order.

Soon, the guests started arriving. The Pandavas received them with all cordiality and lead them to the houses earmarked for them. They were offered delicious food and exquisite drinks to their satisfaction. It is said that cooked rice appeared as ‘mountains’, curd as rivers and ghee as deep moats. The guests enjoyed themselves with all merriment .The noises made by them rose to the sky as great roar from the seas.

Before the sacrifice started, scholars got into debates on the scriptures and other fields of sciences to demonstrate their deep knowledge. Valuable gifts were offered to the winners.

Expert drummers beat on the great drums (dundubhi) to herald the commencement of the great horse sacrifice. The sound of the drums reached far and wide. The sound attracted large crowds to witness the rituals and the great festivities that accompanied it.

The arrival of Krishna

Krishna had returned to Dwaraka when Arjuna had started on his victory march. He now arrived, lead by Balarama, and leading various Yadava chiefs like Satyaki, Samba (saamba), Gada and Kritavarma. Yudhishthira received them with great warmth. Krishna conveyed the message that his man from Dwaraka had met Arjuna on his return from expedition. Arjuna had sent word to Yudhishthra about the success of his mission and that the king could proceed with all the arrangements for the sacrifice. Arjuna had also sent message that his son, Babhruvahana ,the king of Manipur, was also expected to arrive soon.

The return of Arjuna

Soon, a messenger sent by Arjuna reached the palace. The hero of Pandavas was scheduled to reach Hastinapura in a day or two. All the Pandavas were highly excited hearing the news. Then, on the second day there was a great uproar at the gates of the palce. Arjuna had arrived leading the successful horse in front. He bowed in front of all elders, including Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Kunti, Vidura, Yudhishthira and Bhima, and embraced his younger brothers and friend, Krishna. It was a tumultuous welcome that was given to Arjuna on his return from another of his successful, but, difficult expeditions.

Arjuna in the land of Snakes (contd.)

It took a while for Arjuna to realize where he was and why he was there. He recognized the people around him, but, not why he was in their midst.

Uloopi spoke. “You have undergone a trial on your life, all for your own benefit. There was a curse on you because of your causing the fall of the grandsire in a battle where you did not face him directly. I heard this from the Vasus who put that curse on you on the shores of the Ganga. I tried to plead with them on your behalf. They said that you would be felled to the ground by the arrows of my (step) son. You would, then, be cleansed of your sin. Please understand that I had to do this for your own benefit. You may pardon me for doing so.”

Uloopis’ words helped Arjuna to recall his fight against his son and he remembered the arrow that had pierced into his heart. He was pleased with the turn of events and said so to Uloopi. Babhruvahana and Uloopi welcomed him into the palace for rest, but, the Pandava refused the offer. He said that he was already under oath (deeksha) which forbade him luxuries. He invited his son, the king of the Nagas, for the horse sacrifice which was gladly accepted by his host. Then, Arjuna took leave of he Nagas.

In the Magadha kingdom

Arjuna was challenged next by the king of Magadha by name Meghasandhi. We may remember the powerful Jarasindha who was killed by Bhima in a duel that lasted several days. This happened much before the Mahabharata war. Krishna had identified Jarasandha as one of the most formidable among the Pandava enemies and contrived of that plan to eliminate him before he posed a threat.

Meghasandhi fouht bravely, but, Arjuna defeated him without much problem. He, then, conveyed the words of invitation from his brother to the king.

The successful completion of the mission

In the last legs of his journey eastwards (from the north) Arjuna had found opposition from the Chedi king whose father, Sisupala, was killed by Krishna at the time of the Rajasooya of Yudhishthira. He was also challenged by the king of hunters, who was the son of the famous Ekalavya. Ekalavya was the gifted archer who had surpassed Arjuna in every feat of archery and Drona had demanded the thumb of his right hand for the lessons (which he Ekalavya had learnt just by observing Drona and his disciples from a distance).

Arjuna by then had reached the eastern border of kingdoms and turned south and finally, to the east. He went westwards last. There, in the land of the Gandhara Arjuna had to face the opposition of the son of Sakuni. The Pandava defeated him easily. At that time the mother of the king appeared on the scene and pleaded with Arjuna for excusing her son for his impudence.

Arjuna had taken the challenge in his stride. He invited the king for the impending horse sacrifice in Hastinapura and proceeded on his journey back home.

The preparations in Hastinapura

Yudhishthira heard about Arjuna’s successful mission from his men posted at various points and was greatly pleased. Exactly a month was left for the date fixed for the sacrifice. He called his other brothers to his side and asked them to start the preparations for the sacrifice in right earnest.

In the land of snakes

Arjuna reached the city called Manipur, the capital city of Naga (naaga) which was the land of snakes, after passing through several friendly and hostile domains. He had married a princess, Citrangada, of the kingdom and begot a son by name Babhruvahana in her. Besides, he also had wedded Uloopi of the Nagas and fathered another son by name Iravan through her. The former was the ruling monarch of the land at that time.

A royal welcome

Babhruvahana, hearing the arrival of his illustrious father, went to receive him with all royal honours. Arjuna accepted the hospitality, but, instead of showing appreciation, rebuked his son. The Pandava said. “What you have done is not worthy of your Kshatriya blood. You could see very well that I have come in full armour and am holding my famous Gandiva. As a valiant king it was your duty to challenge me. Instead, you meekly submitted to the free movement of my horse. This was not what I expected of you, especially, being one of my own.”

Babhruvahana was in two minds even after hearing the words of reprisal from his father. He thought that his duty as king conflicted with his obligation as son of Arjuna. How could he fight against his own father?

Uloopi advises her step-son.

At that time, Uloopi arrived on the scene hearing the arrival of her husband. She, on evaluating the situation, advised her step son to fight. And, so did the king. He was reluctant in the beginning. But, Arjuna encouraged him, especially when one of his well aimed arrows pierced into the Pandava’s body through his armour.

The fight soon developed all the seriousness of a battle between two enemies. Arjuna killed the horses of the Naga king and destroyed his chariot. Babhruvahana, continued to fight from the ground and startled his father with the very power of his arrows. Then, one of his well aimed ones found the gap in the Pandava’s armour and pierced deeply into the latter’s heart. In the next moment the hero of the Mahabharata war fell down and lost his life. Krishna, who always warned Arjuna of all dangers ahead and even saved him at the last moment was not present.

The tragic scene

Babhruvahana had never wished to fight in the first place. The desire to kill his own father whom he loved and revered was never in his mind. The tragedy struck him with remorse and he also fell down unconscious.

Citrangada got news of the tragedy and immediately arrived on the scene. Soon, she also lost her senses, finding the dead body of her husband and assuming her son also to be dead. In a short while Uloopi also arrived there. At that time Citrangada regained her consciousness and started lamenting about the double tragedy, the death of her husband and son, in her family. She swore that she would fast until death (praayopaveSam), unless the two, her husband and son, get back their lives.

Babhruvahana soon opened his eyes and found his father lying down on the ground, killed by his own arrow. He also learned about the pledge of his mother to end her own life by way of penance. He was grief stricken and pledged to end his life, too, by stopping to eat forthwith. He purified himself with water (aacamanam), sat down on the ground and remained silent.

Uloopi was overwhelmed by the turn of events in which she bore part of the blame. She had urged the king to fight against the Pandava against his own will. Now she looked with aching heart at her dead husband and the other two who swore to kill themselves.”

Suddenly, she remembered the magical gem in possession of the Nagas which had life giving powers. She prayed to the (guardian deity of) the gem and found it in her own hands instantaneously.

Uloopi, then, spoke to Babhruvahana. “Son, do not grieve. Look at the life giving gem of ours in my hand. Place this on the heart of your father and you shall see the miracle for yourself in the next moment.” Babhruvahana did accordingly and was pleased to observe signs of life appearing on the fallen hero of the Pandavas. Arjuna, soon, opened his eyes filling the heart of all around with joy.

(To be continued)

To establish supremacy

The birth of Parikshit and the return of the Pandavas with Marutta’s wealth for the horse sacrifice filled Hasinapura and its surroundings with various festivities. Musicians moved in groups and sang joyful melodies and dancers danced to their tune.

As was his habit on all important occasions, Sage Veda Vyasa arrived at that time in Hastinapura. Yudhishthira received the sage with all reverences due to him and said. “Sir, we managed to get all the wealth for the horse sacrifice with your blessing. Please give us your permission now for the ceremony to start.” Vyasa gave his formal consent to the Pandava.

Yudhishthira next went to Krishna and said. “You have won for us what all we have by way of land and riches. Please allow me to start the long days of penance (deeksha) ahead of the sacrifice”. Krishna also gave his formal approval for the start of the ceremony.

Yudhishthira, then, approached Vyasa for the auspicious time for the sacrificial ritual. Vyasa said. “I have come with my very capable disciples, Yajnavalkya and Paila. We have arrived at the auspicious full moon day of the (lunar calendar) month, Caitra for starting your fasting. Get all the equipment and provisions for the sacrifice organized. Let people who know the science of horses choose the best animal for the purpose. Let that horse roam freely all around the world and return to this place in time for the sacrifice.”

Everything was done exactly as Vyasa had desired. Yudhishthira consulted the sage on the choice of the warrior to protect the horse. Vyasa had no hesitation in suggesting the name of Arjuna. He said. “While Arjuna follows the horse let Bhima and his other brothers protect the vast kingdom of Kurus.”

Yudhishthira, accordingly, entrusted the task to Arjuna. The king, then, started his penance on the auspicious day. He wore silk and the skin of blackbuck (krishnajinam) as a mark of his vow. All the Brahmins (Ritwik) who were to participate in the ritual also got into similar attire. The poet describes that the group, so dressed for the sacrifice, shone like the flame of fire.

Sage Vyasa, himself, released the sacrificial horse. The keeper of the horse walked alongside. Arjuna followed it from behind, holding high gandiva in hand. Large crowds thronged the paths through which the horse moved out of the palatial grounds. They all wished the team a successful return.

The team first moved northwards. The path of the horse was blocked by several kings on the way. All of them were the children or heirs to the throne of those who fought with the Kauravas in the Mahabharata war. They all offered spirited battles, in spite of their total defeat in the war that just ended.

The war with Trigarta

The suicide army (samSaptaka) of the Trigartas had played a significant role in the Mahabharata war. An army consisting of the sons and grandsons of those killed in the war surrounded the horse and Arjuna. Arjuna defeated them all but, refrained from killing any.

King Suryavarma then ruled the land. He and his brothers challenged Arjuna next. After a fierce battle the Trigarta king was defeated. Arjuna extended the invitation to the king for the horse sacrifice on behalf of his brother and moved ahead with the horse.

In the city of Pragjyotisha

King Bhagadatta of Pragjyotisha (praagjyotisha), mounted on his ferocious elephant, had wrecked havoc in the Pandava army in the Mahabharata war. His son, Vajradatta, was the king when Arjuna reached the country. Vajradatta challenged the horse and offered stiff resistance to Arjuna. The two fought for three days. It was on the fourth day, after a fierce battle that Arjuna could win over his enemy. Again, Arjuna conveyed the words of Yudhishthira inviting the king for the impending horse sacrifice.

In the land of Jayadratha

Jayadratha, the Sindhu king was considered to be instrumental in trapping Abhimanyu in the tricky circular formation of Drona. Arjuna’s pledge to kill him before the sun set next day had resulted in one of the most dramatic events of the war. We may recall that Jayadratha had married Dussala (duSSaLa) the only sister of the hundred Kaurava princes

The Saindhava princes carried a grudge against Arjuna for the killing of their king. They were a valiant Kshatriya race ready to risk their lives to settle a score. Learning about the Pandava horse for the Aswamedha which was protected by Arjuna, they quickly put together an army of one thousand chariots and (a cavalry of) ten thousand horses and encircled Arjuna. A stiff battle ensued between Arjuna with his Gandiva on one hand and the revengeful Sindhu princes on the other. It is said that the Pandava got help by way of moral support from the heavenly sages and gods when he lost his senses in the middle of the battle. After the initial reverses Arjuna was on the victory path.

It was then that Dussala appeared on the scene with her grand child, the son of her son, Suratha. Dussala explained that Suratha was already deep in sorrow from his father’s death at the hands of Arjuna. When he heard that Arjuna had come in person to his country threatening to fight, he fell down unconscious. He breathed his last in that condition.

Dussala concluded. “I immediately ran to you carrying this only grand child of mine, who is also your grand nephew. He is to me, as Parikshit is to you. Look, I make him prostrate in front of you. He is to be the new ruler of the Sindhu kingdom. On my command the entire land accepts the supremacy of Yudhishthira. Please save the life of this child.”

Arjuna consoled Uttara and promised that he would act in her best interests. He sent her back to the palace and moved on with the horse to other lands.

The birth of Abhimanyu’s son

As we had mentioned at the beginning of the Bharata story it was Vaisampayana (vaiSampaayana), the disciple of Vyasa, who had narrated the story to Janamejaya, the grandson of Abhimanyu. Often, during the course, the narration falls on several other characters, all in the original words of Vaisampayana. The birth of the son of Abhimanyu is, as on several other occasions, in the words of the sage to the Pandava king, the grandson of Abhimanyu.

Let us recall that Uttara, Abhimanyu’s wife, was an expectant mother at the time of his death. When the war was practically over Aswatthama, the son of Drona, sent a blade of grass towards the Pandavas invoking the Brahmaastra and chanting the magic words ‘for the end of the Pandava race’.It was Krishna who directed the arrow to Uttara, away from all other Pandavas, aiming the baby she was carrying, with the promise that he would give life to the baby, if it was born lifeless. As far as we learn she was the only one expecting a child of the new generation of Pandavas.

Uttara got into labour pains when Yudhishthira and others went to bring Marutta’s wealth. Uttara gave a still birth leaving all in Hastinapura in deep sorrow. Krishna, as though anticipating this tragedy, arrived in Hastinapura with other Yadava leaders at that time. He said that his mission was to console all the Kshatriya women who had lost their husbands.

Kunti pleads with Krishna


The presence of Krishna was the only hope for the Pandavas at the time of the tragedy. Kunti rushed to Krishna and started wailing. She said. “The arrow of Aswatthama must be the cause for this child to lose his life. Krishna, you had pledged at that time in front of every one that you would give life to the child, if it was destroyed by the power of the arrow. You know that this is the only child to keep the Pandava race running. He is also the only one to perform the last rites when my children ultimately die”.

All those present also pleaded with Krishna for the life of the new born baby. Krishna merely consoled his aunt and kept quiet.

Subhadra complains to Krishna

Subhadra also reminded Krishna of his words promising to save Abhimanyu’s child from Aswatthama’s arrow. She added, “Krishna, make your words true. If this child does not live, take it from me that I shall end my own life.”

Krishna said that he would look into the matter and proceeded to the room where the birth had taken place.

Uttara wails

Krishna looked around the labour room with astonishment. Wherever his eyes fell there were auspicious items like pitchers with water, ghee and mustard. The room was well lit with oil lamps wherever required. Old women, adept in the matter and several expert doctors with knowledge of traditional medicine stood all around. Krishna was impressed with arrangements and said so for all to hear.

Uttara was wailing with uncontrollable sorrow. She was heard talking to her lifeless baby. “My son, go and tell your father that no one can die until the time comes. This hapless mother of yours may have to continue living even after your father and you have left me”. But, seeing Krishna she threatened that she would certainly end her life, if her baby does not live.

Krishna brings life to the dead baby

Krishna was touched by the sorrow of his aunt, sister, niece-in-law and others. He knew that he had to keep his words. So, he purified himself with water (aacamanam) as is done before starting any ritual and spoke to Uttara. “I have never spoken a lie, even in joke. I have always stood by Dharma. As truthfulness and Dharma are always with me may this child get back his life!”

When Krishna spoke these words the baby started moving his limbs. A glow representing the power of the Brahmastra left the body of the child and rose to heaven. It, finally, got merged with Brahma, the creator and the custodian of Brahmastra.

The joy in the hearts of all present was beyond description.

The naming of the baby

Krishna said that the boy should be named Parikshit, meaning one who tested the survival of the race. That name stuck with the boy even after he assumed the throne of Hastinapura later.

Soon, the Pandavas arrived in the palace carrying loads and loads of riches all for the purpose of conducting the horse sacrifice. The palace of the Pandavas and the main avenues leading to it got decorated with colourful cloths and festoons. There was good reason for the celebration. The baby, who was born lifeless and who was to be the heir to the throne got back his life. And the Pandavas successfully brought the wealth for the horse sacrifice.

Preparations for the horse sacrifice

(Just to remind ourselves of some of the main characters, Vasudeva and Devaki were Krishna’s parents. Subhadra was his sister wedded to Arjuna. The valiant Abhimanyu was born of that wed lock. Abhimanyu married Uttara who was pregnant when he died fighting the war.)

Before we return to Hastinapura where preparations for the horse sacrifice was about to start let us trace Krishna’s journey back to his home. After blessing Uttanka on the way, Krishna reached Dwaraka and paid his respect to his parents. Vasudeva and Devaki were anxiously waiting for his return so that they could learn details of the war in which their close relations were involved. Krishna briefed them about the main events, but, purposefully kept the tragic end of Abhimanyu out of his narration not to cause great sorrow to his aged parents .

But, Subhadra had come with Krishna to Dwaraka. She, choking with emotion, reminded Krishna that he had left out the killing of her dear son. Vasudeva pressed Krishna for the details. Then, Krishna described how Abhimanyu got trapped in the tricky formation of the Kaurava army led by Drona and, undaunted, how he faced all his enemies and was finally killed fighting against a large number of the veteran Kauravas, single handedly.

The detailed account of Abhimanyu’s end caused uncontrollable grief to Krishna’s parents and to all others present. Krishna consoled them and concluded the story by telling how Kunti, forgetting her own grief, pacified Draupadi, Subhadra and Uttara.

Krishna recalled the arrival of Veda Vyasa on the scene at that time. It had taken the wise words of the sage to bring relief to the grief of Yudhishthira and his brothers. It was Vyasa who persuaded the Pandavas to get past their grief and perform the last rites (sraadha) for Abhimanyu in an elaborate scale. A large number of Brahmins were fed on the occasion and were offered cattle and other valuable gifts.

Krishna concluded his narration saying how Vyasa impressed upon Yudhishthira to perform the horse sacrifice. The ceremony was a sure way to get over the grief and bring fame for the Pandava race. Vyasa, himself, suggested that the Pandavas could get all the riches left over from the ceremony of king Marutta on the slopes of the Himalayas to meet the expenses of the sacrifice. The Pandava coffers were empty after the disastrous war that had just ended.

Preparations for the Horse Sacrifice

As the Mahabharata war was being recounted by Krishna in Dwaraka, the Pandavas were getting ready for the big event, the horse sacrifice. The first step was to get all the wealth that was essential to ensure the success of the ceremony.

A large contingent of the army was made ready in support of the search party consisting of all the Pandavas. Veda Vyasa arrived on the scene just in time to lead the way. Several eminent Brahmins were included in the party for performing the rituals at the right time during the search.

It was warned that the celestial beings, Kinnaras, were keeping guard of Marutta’s wealth. Lord Siva was known to be their master. So, the Brahmins performed special prayers to Siva and offered various delicacies like milk pudding (paayasam) and rice cakes (apoopam) to him.

The auspicious day and time to start the journey were fixed after consulting the almanac and the stars. The Brahmins chanted the prayer for the successful mission (swasti sooktam). The Pandavs, then, went around the Bramins (pradakshina), paid obeisance to them and got their blessings for an auspicious journey. The chariot of Yudhishthira stood out because of the white parasol held above the monarch that gave him the appearance of the moon on the full moon day. The other chariots carrying the search party raced ahead with the Brahmins chanting auspicious prayers and the courtiers singing praise of the Pandavas. The army followed them from behind. A contingent of soldiers mounted on elephants travelled along side. Carts of various size pulled by mules and donkeys followed the entourage.

They passed through dense forests and crossed several rivers on he way and finally reached the place in Himalaya where Marutta was known to have performed his rituals. Tents were erected to house all according to their ranks.

Yudhishthira approached the Brahmins and said. “Sirs, we should not end up wasting time in search. Please come with the most auspicious day and time for us to start digging”. The Brahmins consulted the charts and the stars and said. “Tomorrow will be a good day for us. We all should fast until tomorrow morning when you can start digging”.

Accordingly, the Pandavas fasted that day and slept on grass (darbha), listening to the stories narrated by the Brahmins. Next morning the Brahmins, again, made various offerings to Lord Siva and also to His assistants, the Yakshas, Kinnaras, Gandharvas and so on. Yudhishthira then proceeded to the place indicated by Vyasa and prayed to the king of wealth, Kubera. He then ordered his people to start digging. The Brahmins stood around chanting auspicious prayers (punyaaha vacanam).

It was indeed a treasure that was uncovered on digging. Gold and silver in abundance started appearing as they dug into the ground. Utensils of all types in large numbers were unearthed. Some were earthen and others were made of silver and gold. Wooden pots were part of the collection, all required for the horse sacrifice.

Yudhishthira asked his men to tie as much as they could carry into bundles of all sizes. Some were loaded into carts and others were carried on the back of elephants, mules and horses. Then, the party prayed to Lord Siva, by way of offering thanks, and returned to Hastinapura with great joy.

Uttanka pays his dues to the teacher

Uttanka, after taking leave of king Saudasa, was on his way to the hermitage of sage Gautama with the precious ear rings in hand. He remembered the words of the queen, Madayanti, about the need to be watchful and had secured the precious jewels to the deer skin (krishnaajinam) he wore around him.

After walking a distance Uttanka got so hungry that he decided to pluck some of the Bilva (Aegle Mermalos) fruits he found on a tree on the way. He climbed the tree and hung his garment of deer skin with the ear rings on a branch. He, then, started to shake the branches of the tree vigorously. Unfortunately, some of the fruits fell on the very deer skin and it fell down on the ground with the ear rings. Uttanka stood aghast to watch a snake appear instantaneously and disappear with his prized possession into a hole nearby.

Uttanka became angry and sorry at the same time. He started digging into the hole with a stick with the hope of reaching the den of the snake. He tried day in and day out and, yet, could not find the snake or his ear rings. It is said that the Brahmin dug so furiously that the world around started shaking as a result.

Indra arrives to help

The king of gods realized that it was no good letting the Brahmin to damage nature on a hopeless mission. He arrived on the scene on his chariot and addressed Uttanka. “My dear Brahmin, you are wasting your time. You can never reach the abode of the snakes (naaga loka) which is hundreds of miles away.” Uttanka stood firm on his resolve. He replied. “Either I shall reach the place or I shall end of my life in my effort”.

Indra felt pity for the Brahmin and attached his weapon, the Thunder Bolt (vajra), to the stick Uttanka employed to dig. The way to the abode of snakes opened up in no time and Uttanka entered it without fear.

What he saw was a new world, beautiful beyond imagination. All around him was land with streams and lakes of crystal clear water. The entire land was dense with trees with their emerald green canopy. Various birds and animals played around them freely. Uttanka searched in all directions for the snake with his jewels with no success.

The strange horse

At that time a horse appeared on the scene which addressed Uttanka. “My boy, get into my belly and I shall make sure that you find what you are looking for. Do not feel hesitant.”

Uttanka replied. “First, tell me who you are”

The horse said. “Know that I am the god of fire (agni) and the teacher of your teacher. You have been worshipping me daily all these years and I am pleased with you. That is why I came to help you.”

Uttanka did not hesitate any further and entered into the belly of the horse. The horse, then, started blowing fire through its nostrils which filled the world of snakes with heat and smoke. All the snakes, young and old alike, including great snakes like Vasuki, came out of their abodes and stood around the horse and Uttanka. They started praying, “God, have mercy on us!”

The rest was easy for Uttanka. The stolen jewels were produced in no time and Uttanka took leave of all after paying obeisance to the Fire God. He reached the hermitage of Gautama in due course and placed the precious ear rings at the feet of Ahalya.

Thus ends the story of Uttanka, how he paid his dues to his teacher.

The School Days of Uttanka

The School Days of Uttanka

We have been through the encounter Krishna had with sage Uttanka. We next go into the student days of Uttanka, about his paying his dues to his teacher, the famous sage, Gautama.

Gautama was very fond of his disciple, Uttanka, so much so that even after all his other students completed their studies and left the hermitage on paying their dues
(Guru Dakshina), he held Uttanka back. It was the custom those days that the Guru decided if and when the disciple was ready to go on his own into the world of the grown ups. Even those who joined the hermitage later to learn various fields of studies under sage Gautama completed their internship and left. Uttanka remained behind serving the teacher and continuing to learn at the same time. It was not because Uttanka was a slow learner. On the contrary, sage Gautama was so pleased with him that it simply did not occur to the teacher that it was high time that he sent his disciple away.

It is said that Uttanka grew past his youth into adulthood and even old age and, yet, continued to serve sage Gautama in the hermitage. One day Uttanka went to bring fire wood from the forest as per the custom. He was tired due to the burden he carried and from hunger and thirst. As a result his load on the head fell down tearing part of his silvery hair with it. The sight of his own grey hair made Uttanka aware of his predicament. Here he was, gone into his old age, and yet not permitted to leave his teacher into the open world outside.

Ahalya, the wife of Gautama, found out about the sorrow of Uttanka and asked him to speak out. Uttanka said. “All those who came here with me and even much later, have all gone back. Yet, I continue serving the teacher well into my old age”. The matter was brought to the attention of Gautama who was highly apologetic for the lapse on his part. The teacher promptly gave permission to the disciple to leave the hermitage as and when he liked.

But, Uttanka wanted to pay his dues before leaving. Gautama said. “That is very unnecessary in your case. I am pleased beyond measure even without that. I make you a youth of sixteen years with the power from my meditation. I also offer my daughter to you as parting gift. Go and enjoy life wherever it pleases you after setting up a home for yourself.”

But, Uttanka persisted. He wanted to pay for all the lessons he received from the great teacher. Only then, he argued, his studies could be complete.

Gautama said. “There is nothing I want from you. If you insist, you may ask my wife”

The precious gift

Ahalya also refused any gifts from Uttanka in the beginning. When pressed harder she said. “You know about king Saudasa (saudaasa) who is roaming around as a demon because of a curse. His wife has a pair of precious ear ornaments (ratna kundala). Bring that for me as your parting gift.” Uttanka said that he would get them and left.

Uttanka spotted Saudasa in the middle of a dense forest roaming around searching for food. He ate men who passed his way, as he had become a man eater because of the curse he had received.

When Saudasa spotted the easy prey before him he said. “I am lucky today that I found food just as I am getting hungry.” To that Uttanka replied without fear. “I have come to you to honour my pledge to my teacher. It is not fair on your part to kill me before I meet my pledge. If you are bent upon eating me, do so after I fulfill my duty to my teacher.”

Saudasa said. “May that be as you said. If there is anything I can do to help you, I shall do so by all means.”

Uttanka said. “There is a pair of ear rings worn by your wife. My teacher’s wife wants me to get them for her.”

Saudasa said. “That is perfectly all right with me. Go and ask my wife, Madayanti.” Uttanka went to the queen and repeated his request and added that Saudasa had given him permission to take the ear rings. But, the queen said. “How do I know that you speak the truth? These are so precious that my ear rings appear like molten gold during the day and shine like the moon and stars at night. One who wears these will be free from hunger and thirst and of fear from snake poison and so on. The ear rings adjust themselves in size to suit the person who wears them. There are so many who are out to grab them at the very first opportunity. Go and get some proof that will convince me that what you say is true.”

Uttanka returned to the king and repeated what the queen told him. To that Saudasa spoke a sentence, ‘I know that this path will be favourable to us and I know of no other’ and asked Uttanka to repeat that to his wife.

Madayanti was satisfied with the words of Saudasa as repeated by Uttanka and gave her ear rings to the Brahmin. Uttanka went back to Saudasa carrying he ear rings and said that he wanted to ask one question to the king. The king was willing to listen. Uttanka asked. “I am indebted to you for your kindness and you have become my friend now. Please reply me frankly. Will it be right for me to return to you after I fulfill my obligation to my teacher?”

Saudasa replied. “I wish you well. Hence, never come back to me again. If you do, I am sure to kill and eat you. Go well and I wish you good luck!”

Thus, Uttanka cleverly got rid of the menace from the man-eating king and went his way to his teacher to fulfill his dues.

(To be continued)

Bhagavad Geeta, once again

We have finished the chapter, “of horse sacrifice (Aaswamedhika Parvam)” . We next go into “a sequel to Geeta (Anugeeta Parvam)” which is a follow up of Krishna’s famous advice known by the name, Bhagavad Geeta..

Krishna was with the Pandavas all through the Mahabharata war, away from his home, Dwaraka. When Yudhishthira remained in Hastinapura after the war thinking about the horse sacrifice Krishna and Arjuna moved, enjoying each others company, in the palace, Indraprastha, and in the forests around.

One day Arjuna said. “Krishna, I have forgotten all those advices you gave me at the beginning of the war. Do you mind going through them again?”

Krishna made fun of his friend and said that he, himself, found it difficult to recall all that he had advised. Yet, he went into the philosophical discourse from an entirely different perspective. This time Krishna brought out the essence of the right path (Dharma) through a large number of short stories. The stories are mainly dialogues between ancient sages and other wise men on moral codes of conduct.

Krishna returns to Dwaraka

At the end of his long discourse Krishna said. “I have stayed a long time away from Dwaraka. It I time that I visited my parents and other dear ones at home. I have to take leave of you now.”

Arjuna could not object to that genuine wish of his dear friend and guide. But, he said. “You must first go and inform my brother, Yudhishthira, about it.”

Krishna’s own chariot was already made ready by his charioteer, Daruka. He went quickly to Hastinapura in the company of Arjuna and touched the feet of all the elders including Dhritarashtra, Gandhari,Yudhishthira and Bhima.by way of paying respect to them.

Krishna took rest that night in Arjuna’s palace and started for Dwaraka with the permission of the senior Pandavas and Kauravas. Yudhishthira requested Krishna to convey his regards to his uncle and other relations in Dwaraka.

The story of Uttanka

Krishna was accosted by sage Uttanka on the way. The venerable sage enquired of all that happened in Hastinapura, including the war that had just ended. When he heard of the large scale massacre the sage was furious. He said. “Krishna, you should have prevented this war between your own people on the two sides. You were fully capable of doing that which you did not do. Be ready to receive my curse on you.”

Krishna smiled in his charming way and explained how it was beyond him to avoid the disaster in spite of his best attempts. He concluded. “Now it is up to you whether you want to curse me or not. I wonder whether you should waste your hard earned power from long years of penance on me. You must realize that I do not deserve your wrath in this case.”

Uttanka was convinced with what Krishna said. Listening to his words the sage also became aware of the divine nature of Krishna. He, then, requested Krishna to show his true form (Viswaroopa) which Krishna granted to the great sage. Uttanka was wonder struck looking at the all encompassing form of the Lord and preyed to him with all his heart.

Krishna asked the sage to choose any boon he wished from him. The sage was satisfied just by the good fortune of seeing Krishna’s true form. When Krishna insisted Uttanka said. “My wanderings take me through deep forests and vast deserts where I often find no water to quench my thirst. Please grant me the boon that I find water whenever I need it.” Krishna granted the boon to the sage. He said. “Just think of me when you are thirsty”.

Water for the thirsty

One day Uttanka was in the middle of a vast desert and got very thirsty. Then, he remembered the boon and prayed to Krishna. Soon, the sage found a man of low birth (Candaala) approaching him in ragged cloths leading a pack of four dogs. The man carried a leather bag with water and offered some to the sage. Uttanka, though an enlightened soul, loathed the very sight of the man and would rather go thirsty than accept water from him. The man persuaded the sage again and again. But, Uttanka refused the offer and went his way.

Then, he started wondering whether Krishna had played a trick on him pretending to have granted the boon. At that moment Krishna appeared on the scene and asked the sage smilingly. “Why did you not accept the water I had sent for you?”.

Offer of the immortal nectar

Krishna, then, explained what happened. He had asked Indra, the king of gods, to offer the immortal drink, nectar (Amruta) to Uttanka when the sage prayed for water. Indra was reluctant. But, Krishna insisted on the offer. Finally, the king of gods yielded, but, he would make the offer in his own way.

It was thus that Indra appeared as a man of low birth carrying the nectar in his ragged leather bag and leading the four Vedas as four dogs. Unfortunately, the sage failed to recognize the divinity and his special offer.

So saying Krishna disappeared and went his way towards Dwaraka.

( We next go into an earlier episode of the story of Uttanka in Samskruthi, www.kunjunny.blogspot.com)