We move on to the new book, “the Great Journey (mahaa prasthaanika parvam)”, consisting of one single chapter. It starts with the query raised by Janamejaya on what course of action the Pandavas undertook, after learning about the total destruction of the Yadava race.
In reply, Vaisampayana continued with his narration. Yudhishthira, on hearing the report of Arjuna, said: “Time is a great destroyer of everything. We all must realize that the time has come to take us also in its fold.” His brothers reflected on the significance of those words and nodded in agreement.
The new king
Yudhishthira has been thinking of retiring to forest even much earlier. Now he lost all interest in life itself. He did not waste time once he got the concurrence of his brothers. He called Yuyutsu to his side and spoke. “I want to install Parikshit, the grandson of Arjuna as the future king of Kurus. Think of him as your son and look after the affairs of state on his behalf.”
The Pandavas, first performed the funeral rites for their uncle Vasudeva, to their sons Krishna and Balarama, and to all other Yadavas who were their relations. Great sages like Veda Vyasa, Narada and Markandeya were invited for that occasion (sraaddha). They were fed with delicious food and offered valuable gifts.
The Pandavas, then worshipped their teacher, Kripa, and took his permission for their ultimate journey.
The farewell
Yudhishthira called the senior citizens of his kingdom to his assembly and announced the installation of the new king and his own immediate plan of taking the final journey of his life. There were tears in the eyes of those who heard the announcement. There was, at the same time, a refusal in their muted voices to accept what was inevitable. The Pandava stood firm on his resolve and impressed on the people that they should permit their kings to leave.
Draupadi had already decided that she would accompany her husbands in their final journey. The six of them, accordingly, abandoned their royal gears and changed into ascetic attire, wearing dress made of bark of trees. Then, they set forth on their journey.
It so happened that a dog followed them as they moved on their path. Yudhishthira accepted his new companion with compassion.
Thus, they came out of their palace on a journey very different from those they undertook twice before, first as refugees who escaped from fire in the house of wax and then, after losing all in the game of dice. They did not resent their fate this time, but, accepted it with open hands.
The citizens of the land thronged the two sides of their passage. No one could speak the words, “please do not go!”
Chitrangada, the Naga princess wedded to Arjuna, returned to her kingdom. Uloopi abandoned her body in Ganga and reached the other world ahead of her husband.
The Circumambulation
The six Pandavas, accompanied by the dog, proceeded first to the east until they reached the shores of the sea.
They found, at that time, a figure appearing in front blocking their way like a huge mountain. They, then, heard a voice addressed to them. “Oh! Pandavas, know that I am the god of fire. Arjuna, I gave you the Gandiva and the quill with an unlimited supply of arrows when you helped me to consume the Khandava forest. They served you well in your war against your foes. You do not need them any more. Leave them back in the ocean, to Varuna, from whom you received them.” Arjuna was sorry to part with his weapons that were constant companions all through his fight against powerful enemies.
Then, they proceeded to the south and then to the west reaching the seas forming the boundary of their vast empire. Finally, they traveled north thereby completing one circle around their vast empire. That was their way of worshipping the land that served them and all their ancestors. That was their unique way of bidding farewell to the land and its people, too.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The last days of Dwaraka (Contd.)
Arjuna started for Indraprastha in his chariot on the seventh day as planned. The ladies of Dwaraka followed him keeping Vajra, the great grand son of Krishna, in front. All others followed them from behind. There were Brahmins chanting verses from the Vedas and Kshatriyas and Vaisyas carrying all the wealth they had amassed. They travelled mounting on whatever animals- horses, elephants, camels or bullocks- they could find. A large number of them travelled on foot. There were so many in the group that it appeared like an ocean that emerged out of Dwaraka moving in the direction of Indraprastha.
As the people moved out of each part of the city the western sea moved in flooding the place with water. Soon, the entire Dwaraka went under sea spreading a veil, as though, over the glory of its past. The citizens turned back and saw with horror how their dear city perished as they looked on. They thanked gods for their luck for remaining alive in the face of calamity.
The attack
They stayed at various places on their way as the journey took several days. In the middle they had to pass through the land of ‘Pancanada’. They were traditional enemies of Yadavas. Finding a group consisting mainly of old men, women and children on the move protected by one lone man, Arjuna, the Pancanadas launched an attack from all sides.
Arjuna was furious seeing the impertinence of the enemies. He had his Gandiva in hand which had sent thousands of skilled warriors to the abode of Yama. In contrast, the Pancanadas were mere wayside vagabonds holding sticks in hand as weapons. Yet, they dared to attack a group protected by Savyasaci, one who could send arrows with his right and left hands with equal ease!
Arjuna gave them a warning to avoid a conflict. “Do not even dare to try facing me, if you value your life!” But, the Pancanadas did not take Arjuna or his Gandiva seriously. They started pulling young women and disappearing with them as it pleased them .
Arjuna was furious and started to tie the string to his Gandiva. To his surprise he found that he struggled to do the task which he used to do so easily even before an arrow of enemy reached him. He, somehow, got his Gandiva ready and sent a few arrows. But, the hero of the Mahabharata war realized that he had forgotten the secret of all his divine weapons. Even his ordinary arrows turned out to be without their usual power. Soon, his quill, reputed to hold an unlimited supply of arrows became empty. The Pandava was embarrassed with his own incompetence in facing an enemy that was just ordinary. As Arjuna watched helplessly, the enemies disappeared with a large number of Yadava women and most of the precious jewels the army carried. Finally, when Arjuna reached Indraprastha he had a much reduced group of Yadavas remaining.
Some of the wives of Krishna, including Rukmini, abandoned their lives embracing fire lit specially for the purpose. Others like Satyabhama retired to forests for meditation.
Meeting with Vedavyasa
Arjuna, in due course, installed Vajra as the king of Indraprastha. After a few days Arjuna went to meet sage Vyasa in his hermitage in the forest. Vyasa received him with love and enquired of his well being. Arjuna, then, narrated the tragedies in Dwaraka and of his own unfortunate encounter with the Pancanada people on his way back from there. He concluded saying, “Krishna, who was my friend, guide and well wisher has disappeared from my life for ever. Besides, I have realized that I have become almost an invalid in front of enemies. I do not know why I should continue to live in this helpless condition. You have been the guide for all of us throughout. Please advise me the right course of action.”
Vyasa listened to the heartening tales of Arjuna with composure. Then, he said. “Do not lament over the tragedies in Dwaraka or of the Yadavas. Krishna has left us after successfully completing his mission of incarnation, of destroying evil from this world. You also have done great deeds when it was expected of you. Your divine weapons have left you because they had served their purpose. Now, it is time for you and your brothers to move on to the other world.”
Arjuna listened to the wise counsel of the sage with reverence. When he finished the Pandava took his leave and returned to Hastinapura. There he recounted his meeting with Vyasa to his brothers.
We conclude here the “book of the iron pestle (mausala parvam)” which consisted only of a single chapter.
As the people moved out of each part of the city the western sea moved in flooding the place with water. Soon, the entire Dwaraka went under sea spreading a veil, as though, over the glory of its past. The citizens turned back and saw with horror how their dear city perished as they looked on. They thanked gods for their luck for remaining alive in the face of calamity.
The attack
They stayed at various places on their way as the journey took several days. In the middle they had to pass through the land of ‘Pancanada’. They were traditional enemies of Yadavas. Finding a group consisting mainly of old men, women and children on the move protected by one lone man, Arjuna, the Pancanadas launched an attack from all sides.
Arjuna was furious seeing the impertinence of the enemies. He had his Gandiva in hand which had sent thousands of skilled warriors to the abode of Yama. In contrast, the Pancanadas were mere wayside vagabonds holding sticks in hand as weapons. Yet, they dared to attack a group protected by Savyasaci, one who could send arrows with his right and left hands with equal ease!
Arjuna gave them a warning to avoid a conflict. “Do not even dare to try facing me, if you value your life!” But, the Pancanadas did not take Arjuna or his Gandiva seriously. They started pulling young women and disappearing with them as it pleased them .
Arjuna was furious and started to tie the string to his Gandiva. To his surprise he found that he struggled to do the task which he used to do so easily even before an arrow of enemy reached him. He, somehow, got his Gandiva ready and sent a few arrows. But, the hero of the Mahabharata war realized that he had forgotten the secret of all his divine weapons. Even his ordinary arrows turned out to be without their usual power. Soon, his quill, reputed to hold an unlimited supply of arrows became empty. The Pandava was embarrassed with his own incompetence in facing an enemy that was just ordinary. As Arjuna watched helplessly, the enemies disappeared with a large number of Yadava women and most of the precious jewels the army carried. Finally, when Arjuna reached Indraprastha he had a much reduced group of Yadavas remaining.
Some of the wives of Krishna, including Rukmini, abandoned their lives embracing fire lit specially for the purpose. Others like Satyabhama retired to forests for meditation.
Meeting with Vedavyasa
Arjuna, in due course, installed Vajra as the king of Indraprastha. After a few days Arjuna went to meet sage Vyasa in his hermitage in the forest. Vyasa received him with love and enquired of his well being. Arjuna, then, narrated the tragedies in Dwaraka and of his own unfortunate encounter with the Pancanada people on his way back from there. He concluded saying, “Krishna, who was my friend, guide and well wisher has disappeared from my life for ever. Besides, I have realized that I have become almost an invalid in front of enemies. I do not know why I should continue to live in this helpless condition. You have been the guide for all of us throughout. Please advise me the right course of action.”
Vyasa listened to the heartening tales of Arjuna with composure. Then, he said. “Do not lament over the tragedies in Dwaraka or of the Yadavas. Krishna has left us after successfully completing his mission of incarnation, of destroying evil from this world. You also have done great deeds when it was expected of you. Your divine weapons have left you because they had served their purpose. Now, it is time for you and your brothers to move on to the other world.”
Arjuna listened to the wise counsel of the sage with reverence. When he finished the Pandava took his leave and returned to Hastinapura. There he recounted his meeting with Vyasa to his brothers.
We conclude here the “book of the iron pestle (mausala parvam)” which consisted only of a single chapter.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The last days of Dwaraka
Daruka met the Pandavas in Hastinapura and conveyed the news of the tragedy that took place in Dwaraka. The Pandavas were grief stricken. Arjuna immediately took leave of his brothers and proceeded to the city of his dear friend, Krishna, in the chariot driven by Daruka.
Arjuna was met by the loud wails of the wives of Krishna when he entered the city. The news of the death of their husband had, by then, reached them and immersed them in deep sorrow. They looked at Arjuna, the best friend of Krishna, with pleading eyes. Their lord had left them behind. There was none other than the Pandava who would look after them henceforth.
Meeting with Vasudeva
Arjuna went straight to meet his uncle (Kunti’s brother) and Krishna’s father, Vasudeva. He was already bed ridden with old age. The news of Krishna’s death had taken away any desire in him for further living.
Arjuna found Vasudeva in his bed with his eyes filled with tears. He wanted to get up and embrace Arjuna, but, was powerless to move. He simply raised his right hand and put it on Arjuna’s head by way of blessing.
The Yadava king addressed Arjuna and wailed over the death of his dear sons. “Look at the fate of my two sons who had defeated several mighty kings in their good days . I cannot bear the thought that I will not be able to see them any more. Those two dear friends of yours, Pradyumna (Kishna’s son) and Satyaki caused the destruction of the Yadava race. I have never heard Satyaki speak even a harsh word against Kritavarma in the past. It must be the curse of the venerable Gandhari and of the heavenly sages that made him speak in that manner.”
“There is no point in my going over these things any more. I am not going to live long after the death of my dear sons. Krishna has told me that you will be coming to take care of all those who are left behind. Take them with you to your place. This city, itself, is destined to go under sea as its protector, Krishna, has left this world.
Arjuna had to make an effort to control his own emotions. He managed to convey all that was necessary to be said in two sentences. “I also will not be able to live in Dwaraka without Krishna and you. Let me take the Yadavas who are left behind with me to Indraprastha.”
Arjuna’s preparations
Arjuna, then, asked Daruka to call an assembly of the prominent Yadavas who were still alive. When all gathered in the hall bearing the name of Sudharma he spoke. “I am going to take all of you, the people of Vrishni, Andhaka and the rest to Indraprastha. This great grandson of Krishna, Vajra, shall be your future king. It is told that this city, Dwaraka, of Yadavas is soon going to be submerged under sea. Collect all the vehicles and load them with whatever valuables you may have. We start on the seventh day from today when the sun rises.”
Arjuna slept in the house of Krishna that night.
The end of Vasudeva
The next morning brought the sad news that Krishna’s father had already breathed his last. That added one more tragedy to the heart breaking sequence of events. The four wives of the Yadava king, including Devaki (Krishna’s mother) and Rohini (the mother of Balarama) were grief stricken.
Arjuna had the added task of arranging for the cremation of his uncle, the lion of the Sauri race. The dead body was taken out in a procession in a vehicle that overflowed with flowers. Renowned Brahmins lead the procession chanting Vedic hymns in the front. The four wives of Vasudeva followed by Arjuna and others walked behind.
A funeral pyre was made ready at a place that was dear to the expired king. The body of Vasudeva was placed on the pyre and was lit. When the body was engulfed in flames the four wives of Vasudeva took permission of Arjuna and all others and entered into it, performing a Sati. It was a sad occasions for the residents of Dwaraka caused by the death of their king and of his queens.
Arjuna, keeping Vajra, the great grandson of Krishna, in front performed the last rites for the deceased. He also got the bodies of Krishna and Balarama and cremated them as well with due honour.
(To be continued)
Arjuna was met by the loud wails of the wives of Krishna when he entered the city. The news of the death of their husband had, by then, reached them and immersed them in deep sorrow. They looked at Arjuna, the best friend of Krishna, with pleading eyes. Their lord had left them behind. There was none other than the Pandava who would look after them henceforth.
Meeting with Vasudeva
Arjuna went straight to meet his uncle (Kunti’s brother) and Krishna’s father, Vasudeva. He was already bed ridden with old age. The news of Krishna’s death had taken away any desire in him for further living.
Arjuna found Vasudeva in his bed with his eyes filled with tears. He wanted to get up and embrace Arjuna, but, was powerless to move. He simply raised his right hand and put it on Arjuna’s head by way of blessing.
The Yadava king addressed Arjuna and wailed over the death of his dear sons. “Look at the fate of my two sons who had defeated several mighty kings in their good days . I cannot bear the thought that I will not be able to see them any more. Those two dear friends of yours, Pradyumna (Kishna’s son) and Satyaki caused the destruction of the Yadava race. I have never heard Satyaki speak even a harsh word against Kritavarma in the past. It must be the curse of the venerable Gandhari and of the heavenly sages that made him speak in that manner.”
“There is no point in my going over these things any more. I am not going to live long after the death of my dear sons. Krishna has told me that you will be coming to take care of all those who are left behind. Take them with you to your place. This city, itself, is destined to go under sea as its protector, Krishna, has left this world.
Arjuna had to make an effort to control his own emotions. He managed to convey all that was necessary to be said in two sentences. “I also will not be able to live in Dwaraka without Krishna and you. Let me take the Yadavas who are left behind with me to Indraprastha.”
Arjuna’s preparations
Arjuna, then, asked Daruka to call an assembly of the prominent Yadavas who were still alive. When all gathered in the hall bearing the name of Sudharma he spoke. “I am going to take all of you, the people of Vrishni, Andhaka and the rest to Indraprastha. This great grandson of Krishna, Vajra, shall be your future king. It is told that this city, Dwaraka, of Yadavas is soon going to be submerged under sea. Collect all the vehicles and load them with whatever valuables you may have. We start on the seventh day from today when the sun rises.”
Arjuna slept in the house of Krishna that night.
The end of Vasudeva
The next morning brought the sad news that Krishna’s father had already breathed his last. That added one more tragedy to the heart breaking sequence of events. The four wives of the Yadava king, including Devaki (Krishna’s mother) and Rohini (the mother of Balarama) were grief stricken.
Arjuna had the added task of arranging for the cremation of his uncle, the lion of the Sauri race. The dead body was taken out in a procession in a vehicle that overflowed with flowers. Renowned Brahmins lead the procession chanting Vedic hymns in the front. The four wives of Vasudeva followed by Arjuna and others walked behind.
A funeral pyre was made ready at a place that was dear to the expired king. The body of Vasudeva was placed on the pyre and was lit. When the body was engulfed in flames the four wives of Vasudeva took permission of Arjuna and all others and entered into it, performing a Sati. It was a sad occasions for the residents of Dwaraka caused by the death of their king and of his queens.
Arjuna, keeping Vajra, the great grandson of Krishna, in front performed the last rites for the deceased. He also got the bodies of Krishna and Balarama and cremated them as well with due honour.
(To be continued)
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
The end of Balarama and Krishna
Balarama and Krishna
In Hindu mythology, the ultimate and formless God has been conceived taking form (for the purpose of creation) primarily as the triumvirate, Brahma, Vishnu and Siva. Vishnu exists always with his dual, the primordial snake Adi Sesha (aadi Sesha) with his one thousand heads. Adi Sesha is also known by the name, Ananta or the one without beginning or end. He is considered to be the king of the all the snakes in heaven and in the nether worlds. Vishnu is said to be mostly lying down on the coiled body of the snake on the “White Island (Sweta dweepa)” in the middle of the Milky Ocean (ksheera saagara). The snake holds his hood all the time over Vishnu as an umbrella. It is interpreted that Krishna was the incarnation of Vishnu and, his brother, Balarama, of Adi Sesha.
The scene in Dwaraka
Daruka, Krishna’s charioteer, was by his side when all this happened. He remarked. “Lord, almost all the Yadava men have been killed, including your son and grandson. Should we go to your brother and report the matter to him?” Krishna, without saying anything in reply, merely followed Daruka almost in a trance.
They found Balarama resting under a tree in a pensive mood. Krishna asked Daruka to go to Hastinapura and report the matter to the Pandavas. Arjuna should be asked to come with him to take care of the women and children left in Dwaraka. Daruka, drove the chariot to the palace of the Pandavas, in a dejected mood.
Krishna requested his brother to wait for him while he went to Dwaraka to meet his father. He, after reaching Dwaraka, bowed in front of his father and reported the carnage of the Yadavas to him. Then, he said. “Please wait for Arjuna’s arrival to protect the women and children in Dwaraka. I cannot live any more in this place after witnessing the death of all our people. Let me retire to the forest and spend time in meditation with my brother.”
There was a huge hue and cry in the palace when the ladies heard what all had happened and learnt that Krishna was leaving them behind for the forest. Krishna consoled them saying that Arjuna soon would be there to take care of them.
The end of Balarama
As Krishna reached the place where his brother was, he found him walking towards the ocean. He simply walked into the waters and disappeared, as though welcomed by the ocean in its fold. In the process he transformed himself into the divine form of the snake, Adi Sesha. All the divine snakes like Takshaka and Karkotaka received their king with all reverence. The sea itself turned into the milky ocean.
The end of Krishna
Krishna realized that the time had come for his own end. The purpose of his life was the destruction of the evil and the protection of the virtuous. That was already achieved. He remembered all the major events of his life on earth and the words of Gandhari cursing him to this tragic end. With his mind engrossed in such thoughts he lied down at the foot of a tree and got into a yogic trance.
At that moment a hunter by name Jara appeared at a distance. He was chasing a bird with his bow and arrow for his meal. He noticed something looking like his prey hiding in the bush which was one of Krishna’s feet. Mistaking that to be a bird, Jara dispatched an arrow that pierced all the way into Krishna’s body. When the hunter rushed to the scene to collect his prey what he found was the dead body of Krishna. The hunter was apologetic, but, Krishna had by then breathed his last and gone back to his own world, in the milky ocean. That was how, the life of the most illustrious characters in Mahabharata ended. Krishna, who was revered by gods and humans alike while he lived, and was the centre of attention wherever he was, died in a lonely forest unattended by any. The simple arrow of an ordinary hunter killed the one whose weapons, especially, the Sudarsana Cakra was capable of destroying all the worlds.
In his abode Krishna, in his original form as Vishnu, was received with all reverence and worshipped by the celestial sages like Narada.
In Hindu mythology, the ultimate and formless God has been conceived taking form (for the purpose of creation) primarily as the triumvirate, Brahma, Vishnu and Siva. Vishnu exists always with his dual, the primordial snake Adi Sesha (aadi Sesha) with his one thousand heads. Adi Sesha is also known by the name, Ananta or the one without beginning or end. He is considered to be the king of the all the snakes in heaven and in the nether worlds. Vishnu is said to be mostly lying down on the coiled body of the snake on the “White Island (Sweta dweepa)” in the middle of the Milky Ocean (ksheera saagara). The snake holds his hood all the time over Vishnu as an umbrella. It is interpreted that Krishna was the incarnation of Vishnu and, his brother, Balarama, of Adi Sesha.
The scene in Dwaraka
Daruka, Krishna’s charioteer, was by his side when all this happened. He remarked. “Lord, almost all the Yadava men have been killed, including your son and grandson. Should we go to your brother and report the matter to him?” Krishna, without saying anything in reply, merely followed Daruka almost in a trance.
They found Balarama resting under a tree in a pensive mood. Krishna asked Daruka to go to Hastinapura and report the matter to the Pandavas. Arjuna should be asked to come with him to take care of the women and children left in Dwaraka. Daruka, drove the chariot to the palace of the Pandavas, in a dejected mood.
Krishna requested his brother to wait for him while he went to Dwaraka to meet his father. He, after reaching Dwaraka, bowed in front of his father and reported the carnage of the Yadavas to him. Then, he said. “Please wait for Arjuna’s arrival to protect the women and children in Dwaraka. I cannot live any more in this place after witnessing the death of all our people. Let me retire to the forest and spend time in meditation with my brother.”
There was a huge hue and cry in the palace when the ladies heard what all had happened and learnt that Krishna was leaving them behind for the forest. Krishna consoled them saying that Arjuna soon would be there to take care of them.
The end of Balarama
As Krishna reached the place where his brother was, he found him walking towards the ocean. He simply walked into the waters and disappeared, as though welcomed by the ocean in its fold. In the process he transformed himself into the divine form of the snake, Adi Sesha. All the divine snakes like Takshaka and Karkotaka received their king with all reverence. The sea itself turned into the milky ocean.
The end of Krishna
Krishna realized that the time had come for his own end. The purpose of his life was the destruction of the evil and the protection of the virtuous. That was already achieved. He remembered all the major events of his life on earth and the words of Gandhari cursing him to this tragic end. With his mind engrossed in such thoughts he lied down at the foot of a tree and got into a yogic trance.
At that moment a hunter by name Jara appeared at a distance. He was chasing a bird with his bow and arrow for his meal. He noticed something looking like his prey hiding in the bush which was one of Krishna’s feet. Mistaking that to be a bird, Jara dispatched an arrow that pierced all the way into Krishna’s body. When the hunter rushed to the scene to collect his prey what he found was the dead body of Krishna. The hunter was apologetic, but, Krishna had by then breathed his last and gone back to his own world, in the milky ocean. That was how, the life of the most illustrious characters in Mahabharata ended. Krishna, who was revered by gods and humans alike while he lived, and was the centre of attention wherever he was, died in a lonely forest unattended by any. The simple arrow of an ordinary hunter killed the one whose weapons, especially, the Sudarsana Cakra was capable of destroying all the worlds.
In his abode Krishna, in his original form as Vishnu, was received with all reverence and worshipped by the celestial sages like Narada.
Friday, August 15, 2008
The Carnage at Prabhasa
The day that was set for the pilgrimage to Prabhasa arrived. Many of the Yadavas had bad dreams on the earlier night. They saw vultures stooping down over the city in large numbers. Evil looking monsters were seen dragging the Yadava women away with them. They witnessed with horror scenes in which four horses pulled the golden chariot of Krishna and disappeared over the sea. Even the powerful discus of Krishna was noticed rising over the horizon and going out of sight.
All got ready the next morning for the journey to Prabhasa. Food in large quantity was loaded into carts drawn by bullocks. Such pilgrimages normally turned into occasions for enjoyment, too. So, various drinks were also included in the provisions. Unnoticed by the leaders, the prohibited alcoholic beverages were also carried in abundance. People travelled in chariots, on horse back or in whatever vehicles they could get into. After reaching the sea shore they got into the individual shelters made ready for the purpose.
Udhava (uddhava) was a great devotee of Krishna and pious by nature. He was apprehensive of the events to take place and took leave of Krishna and other Yadavas. Krishna knew in his mind that a disaster was imminent and did not try to hold Udhava back.
The quarrel
After performing the customary bath and rituals by the sea shore, the Yadavas got into feasting. Delicious food including meat of various kinds was served. Everyone, then, started drinking alcohol of various types, at first covertly and then openly in front of Krishna and Balarama. Krishna was by then resigned to the events in store and did not try to prevent the dangerous move of the Yadavas.
After the meal and drinks there was music and dancing. All forgot the very purpose of the pilgrimage by then and indulged into merrymaking.
Then there was that little spark that set light to the explosion. It started as an argument between Krishna’s best friend, Satyaki, and Kritavarma of the evil three (the three who slaughtered the sons of Draupadi and others at night) . Both were fully intoxicated by the time they got into their words of reprisal. Satyaki turned towards Kritavarma and said. “It was a heinous crime you, Oh Kritavarma, committed by slaughtering the innocent ones, including children, when they were deep in sleep. That too, after the war was over. Who, born as Kshatriya, will stoop down to such a low level? We, Yadavas, shall never forgive you for that.” The words of Satyaki brought nods of approval from all those who were around.
Kritavarma was angered by the unprovoked accusation and retorted. “What a fine Kshatriya you are, who chopped the head of Bhurisravas, whose right arm was already slashed by Arjuna and who had got into a Yogic posture, renouncing fight!”
Satyaki was furious when his opponent touched the weak spot in him. He narrated loudly the story of Syamantaka in which Kritavarma had played an evil role. Krishna’s wife, Satyabhama (the daughter of Satrajit on whom the trick was played), was enraged by the story and looked at Krishna pleading for revenge. Krishna ignored her. But, Satyaki took up the cause and declared. “I shall avenge the killing of the Panchala princes and the five sons of Draupadi by this evil man”. So saying, he ran towards Kritavarma. Before anyone could prevent him, Satyaki chopped the head of Kritavarma with his sword.
There were many among those assembled who were on the side of Kritavarma. They encircled Satyakai and in no time thrashed him into pulp with cooking pots and any other objects they could lay hands on.
What followed was total chaos. The Yadavas formed into two groups and started fighting with each other. First it was with fists and weapons they had with them. Then, some observed the new grown grass by the sea shore which stood strong and hard like pestles and handy for a fight. They started pulling the stalks of the grass and hitting the enemy with them. The innocuous grass turned out to be formidable weapons in the hands of the Yadavas. Each blow with it broke the skull of those who received it. Then, all rushed to grab the grass stalks and to swing them against the opponents.
Soon, the distinction between friend and enemy disappeared. Father killed his own son and the children killed their own parents. Brothers fought among themselves and met with death at the hands of their own brethren. Krishna watched the scene with dispassion and reflected how strong the hands of fate were. He, himself, pulled the grass and struck the head of any who he could get to. Soon, the holy place of Prabhasa was turned into a battle field where only dead bodies remained. Pools of blood developed in place of the holy waters. Among those killed included Krishna’s son, Pradyumna and grand son, Anirudha (aniruddha).
(To be continued)
All got ready the next morning for the journey to Prabhasa. Food in large quantity was loaded into carts drawn by bullocks. Such pilgrimages normally turned into occasions for enjoyment, too. So, various drinks were also included in the provisions. Unnoticed by the leaders, the prohibited alcoholic beverages were also carried in abundance. People travelled in chariots, on horse back or in whatever vehicles they could get into. After reaching the sea shore they got into the individual shelters made ready for the purpose.
Udhava (uddhava) was a great devotee of Krishna and pious by nature. He was apprehensive of the events to take place and took leave of Krishna and other Yadavas. Krishna knew in his mind that a disaster was imminent and did not try to hold Udhava back.
The quarrel
After performing the customary bath and rituals by the sea shore, the Yadavas got into feasting. Delicious food including meat of various kinds was served. Everyone, then, started drinking alcohol of various types, at first covertly and then openly in front of Krishna and Balarama. Krishna was by then resigned to the events in store and did not try to prevent the dangerous move of the Yadavas.
After the meal and drinks there was music and dancing. All forgot the very purpose of the pilgrimage by then and indulged into merrymaking.
Then there was that little spark that set light to the explosion. It started as an argument between Krishna’s best friend, Satyaki, and Kritavarma of the evil three (the three who slaughtered the sons of Draupadi and others at night) . Both were fully intoxicated by the time they got into their words of reprisal. Satyaki turned towards Kritavarma and said. “It was a heinous crime you, Oh Kritavarma, committed by slaughtering the innocent ones, including children, when they were deep in sleep. That too, after the war was over. Who, born as Kshatriya, will stoop down to such a low level? We, Yadavas, shall never forgive you for that.” The words of Satyaki brought nods of approval from all those who were around.
Kritavarma was angered by the unprovoked accusation and retorted. “What a fine Kshatriya you are, who chopped the head of Bhurisravas, whose right arm was already slashed by Arjuna and who had got into a Yogic posture, renouncing fight!”
Satyaki was furious when his opponent touched the weak spot in him. He narrated loudly the story of Syamantaka in which Kritavarma had played an evil role. Krishna’s wife, Satyabhama (the daughter of Satrajit on whom the trick was played), was enraged by the story and looked at Krishna pleading for revenge. Krishna ignored her. But, Satyaki took up the cause and declared. “I shall avenge the killing of the Panchala princes and the five sons of Draupadi by this evil man”. So saying, he ran towards Kritavarma. Before anyone could prevent him, Satyaki chopped the head of Kritavarma with his sword.
There were many among those assembled who were on the side of Kritavarma. They encircled Satyakai and in no time thrashed him into pulp with cooking pots and any other objects they could lay hands on.
What followed was total chaos. The Yadavas formed into two groups and started fighting with each other. First it was with fists and weapons they had with them. Then, some observed the new grown grass by the sea shore which stood strong and hard like pestles and handy for a fight. They started pulling the stalks of the grass and hitting the enemy with them. The innocuous grass turned out to be formidable weapons in the hands of the Yadavas. Each blow with it broke the skull of those who received it. Then, all rushed to grab the grass stalks and to swing them against the opponents.
Soon, the distinction between friend and enemy disappeared. Father killed his own son and the children killed their own parents. Brothers fought among themselves and met with death at the hands of their own brethren. Krishna watched the scene with dispassion and reflected how strong the hands of fate were. He, himself, pulled the grass and struck the head of any who he could get to. Soon, the holy place of Prabhasa was turned into a battle field where only dead bodies remained. Pools of blood developed in place of the holy waters. Among those killed included Krishna’s son, Pradyumna and grand son, Anirudha (aniruddha).
(To be continued)
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Evil portents in Dwaraka
36 years passed after the war. That period of peace and happiness was interrupted only by the extraordinary end to the life of Vidura and the tragic death of Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti. Krishna and his brother, Balarama, spent these years quietly in Dwaraka ruling over the land of the Yadavas.
Then, bad omens started appearing in the Yadava city. Strong wind carrying dust and gravel blew over the city and its surroundings. Comets appeared in the sky and darted in all directions, setting the sky aflame on its path. Birds of prey were spotted circling over the city in anti-clockwise direction (apradakshiNa). The Yadavas reported that they observed rivers flowing in the upstream direction.
Parrots cried in shrill voices, “chee, chee”, as though frightened by unseen danger. Even the gentle swans imitated the deep throated noise, “hmmmm”, of owls creating fear in the minds of the people. Goats were reported to be braying, imitating donkeys. Rats multiplied in large numbers eating everything and chewing even the nail and hair of humans.
Animals started cross-breeding and giving birth to creatures unseen ever before. The normally law abiding citizens of Dwaraka stopped caring for the laws of the land and indulged in vices as it pleased them.
Dense fog appeared all of a sudden covering all the land and the sea. The sun itself was covered by dust for days in a row. The entire sky was engulfed in darkness even at midday, casting shadows resembling dead bodies without heads (kabandha) over the land.
It appeared, as though, the God of death started visiting every house in Dwaraka, unseen and yet creating fear in the minds of inhabitants.
There was panic throughout the land, fearing that a great calamity was about to befall in their midst. Krishna also observed the evil omens and remembered the curse of Gandhari. The predicted time had come for the end of the Yadava races, the Vrishni, Andhaka and all, and of himself.
Bad omens were also sighted in Hastinapura, nurturing fears in the Pandava minds.
The curse
Then, one day the celestial sages Narada, Viswamitra and Kanva paid a visit to Dwaraka. The long years of prosperity and the unchallenged power of the Yadavas had made them haughty. They cared for none, and spared none as targets for amusement.
The visit of the holy sages gave them hope for new entertainment. Some of the sons of Vasudeva (Krishna’s father) thought of a plan to make fun of the sages. They dressed up Samba, the son of Krishna born to Jambavathy (as retold in the story of Syamantaka in the Bhagavata epic, which we have not covered) as a pregnant girl. Then, pretending mock respect, they spoke to the sages. “Holy men, here is the pregnant wife of Babhru. You are wise men who see the future clearly in your minds. We are all eager to know what child she is going to deliver.”
The sages could easily see through the joke played on them and got into a rage because of the arrogance of the Yadavas. They said. “You, Samba, shall give birth to an iron pestle within the next 24 hours. May that be the cause for the end of your entire race!” So saying, the sages stormed out of Dwaraka leaving the stunned Yadavas behind. The matter was promptly reported to Krishna. Krishna knew that nothing could change the fate of his people. Yet, he thought that it was wise to take the necessary precautionary steps. So, he made a proclamation that there should be no intoxicating drinks prepared or consumed in any of the houses within the kingdom from that day. Alcohol was always the main cause for disaster.
The calamitous birth of a “baby”
Soon after the sages left, Samba found himself transformed, by a miracle, into a woman expecting a baby. He also got into labour pains to the consternation of all, and delivered an iron pestle on the very next day, exactly as predicted by the sages. Krishna could foresee the shape of things to come, and yet ordered the pestle to be chiselled into fine pieces and be thrown into the sea, which was carried out immediately.
But, the sin of the Yadavas, of making fun of the powerful sages, could not be washed away that easily. The next high tide brought all the iron filings back and deposited them on the sea shore at Prabhasa. Strangely, people who lived around the place found that fresh grass had taken root there. They grew tall and strong like huge pestles threatening, as though, the Yadava race with impending disaster.
Krishna spent his days in pensive mood ever since the time evil portents started appearing and the day the sages cast their spell over the city. On the fateful day as per his calculation, he suggested a pilgrimage to the sea shore at Prabhassa, thinking probably, that that was the way to keep the impending calamity at bay. All the Yadavas, young and old alike moved to the sea shore at Prabhasa to take a holy dip in the sea there. They went with all the preparations for making food for the day.
(To be continued)
Then, bad omens started appearing in the Yadava city. Strong wind carrying dust and gravel blew over the city and its surroundings. Comets appeared in the sky and darted in all directions, setting the sky aflame on its path. Birds of prey were spotted circling over the city in anti-clockwise direction (apradakshiNa). The Yadavas reported that they observed rivers flowing in the upstream direction.
Parrots cried in shrill voices, “chee, chee”, as though frightened by unseen danger. Even the gentle swans imitated the deep throated noise, “hmmmm”, of owls creating fear in the minds of the people. Goats were reported to be braying, imitating donkeys. Rats multiplied in large numbers eating everything and chewing even the nail and hair of humans.
Animals started cross-breeding and giving birth to creatures unseen ever before. The normally law abiding citizens of Dwaraka stopped caring for the laws of the land and indulged in vices as it pleased them.
Dense fog appeared all of a sudden covering all the land and the sea. The sun itself was covered by dust for days in a row. The entire sky was engulfed in darkness even at midday, casting shadows resembling dead bodies without heads (kabandha) over the land.
It appeared, as though, the God of death started visiting every house in Dwaraka, unseen and yet creating fear in the minds of inhabitants.
There was panic throughout the land, fearing that a great calamity was about to befall in their midst. Krishna also observed the evil omens and remembered the curse of Gandhari. The predicted time had come for the end of the Yadava races, the Vrishni, Andhaka and all, and of himself.
Bad omens were also sighted in Hastinapura, nurturing fears in the Pandava minds.
The curse
Then, one day the celestial sages Narada, Viswamitra and Kanva paid a visit to Dwaraka. The long years of prosperity and the unchallenged power of the Yadavas had made them haughty. They cared for none, and spared none as targets for amusement.
The visit of the holy sages gave them hope for new entertainment. Some of the sons of Vasudeva (Krishna’s father) thought of a plan to make fun of the sages. They dressed up Samba, the son of Krishna born to Jambavathy (as retold in the story of Syamantaka in the Bhagavata epic, which we have not covered) as a pregnant girl. Then, pretending mock respect, they spoke to the sages. “Holy men, here is the pregnant wife of Babhru. You are wise men who see the future clearly in your minds. We are all eager to know what child she is going to deliver.”
The sages could easily see through the joke played on them and got into a rage because of the arrogance of the Yadavas. They said. “You, Samba, shall give birth to an iron pestle within the next 24 hours. May that be the cause for the end of your entire race!” So saying, the sages stormed out of Dwaraka leaving the stunned Yadavas behind. The matter was promptly reported to Krishna. Krishna knew that nothing could change the fate of his people. Yet, he thought that it was wise to take the necessary precautionary steps. So, he made a proclamation that there should be no intoxicating drinks prepared or consumed in any of the houses within the kingdom from that day. Alcohol was always the main cause for disaster.
The calamitous birth of a “baby”
Soon after the sages left, Samba found himself transformed, by a miracle, into a woman expecting a baby. He also got into labour pains to the consternation of all, and delivered an iron pestle on the very next day, exactly as predicted by the sages. Krishna could foresee the shape of things to come, and yet ordered the pestle to be chiselled into fine pieces and be thrown into the sea, which was carried out immediately.
But, the sin of the Yadavas, of making fun of the powerful sages, could not be washed away that easily. The next high tide brought all the iron filings back and deposited them on the sea shore at Prabhasa. Strangely, people who lived around the place found that fresh grass had taken root there. They grew tall and strong like huge pestles threatening, as though, the Yadava race with impending disaster.
Krishna spent his days in pensive mood ever since the time evil portents started appearing and the day the sages cast their spell over the city. On the fateful day as per his calculation, he suggested a pilgrimage to the sea shore at Prabhassa, thinking probably, that that was the way to keep the impending calamity at bay. All the Yadavas, young and old alike moved to the sea shore at Prabhasa to take a holy dip in the sea there. They went with all the preparations for making food for the day.
(To be continued)
Monday, August 11, 2008
The Death of Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti
We are now into the new chapter, “the arrival of Narada (naaradaagamana parvam)”.
Two years passed after the Pandavas returned to Hastinapura, taking leave of their parents in the forest. One day sage Narada arrived quite unexpectedly in the palace. Yudhishthira received him with all reverence and asked. “It is a long time since we last saw you. Hope, you are keeping well. To which places you have been recently? What can I do for you?”
Narada replied. “I came here just because of that, thinking that I have not met you for a long time. I have been roaming through various holy places, including river Ganga.”
Yudhishthira prompted the sage further. “Some of my subjects living close to the Ganga told me that my uncle has been engaged in severe penances. Did you happen to meet him, my aunt Gandhari and mother Kunti? Have you any news of Sanjaya?”
Narada replied. “Listen to what I have to say with a composed mind. I am going to repeat what I have directly seen or reliably heard from others, exactly as they happened. Your uncle gradually got into the life of a Yati, sustaining life just by breathing. His queen lived merely by drinking water. Your mother ate only once a month. Sanjaya was also engaged in similar austerities.”
“Once the king bathed in the waters of Ganga and started walking towards his hermitage. His queen, your mother and Sanjaya were with him for support. At that time there was a strong wind that blew and wild fire engulfed the place all of a sudden. Birds and animals started burning down in large numbers. Your uncle, sensing the danger asked Sanjaya to escape. He said that the three of them gladly would embrace death in the fire. Sanjaya, though desperate, could not suggest a way of saving the aged king and queens from the fire that was fast approaching. There was only one thing for them to do. He asked them to get into a yogic trance and take full control of all bodily senses so that they would not feel any pain. Sanjaya, after prostrating before the king and queens, quickly got out of the fire. The king and the queens perished in the fire soon after. Sanjaya narrated the incident to the ascetics outside and went to the Himalayas for further penance. Do not grieve for your parents. They all have been waiting eagerly for the end of their lives and have welcomed the fire with open arms.”
The Pandavas were immersed in sorrow hearing the tragic end to the aged king and the queens. So was the entire kingdom of Kurus. Yudhishthira wailed, addressing the heavenly sage. “How sad is the plight of human beings! My uncle, though blind, was as strong as thousand elephants. My aunt gave birth to a hundred sons. Yet, they died helplessly, caught in forest fire. They used to enjoy the breeze from the Vyajana (a fan made of peacock feathers), fanned by beautiful women of the palace. Yet, the flapping of wings by eagles would have blown the wind on their faces at the time of death.”
“I think of my own mother who, instead of enjoying all the wealth earned by her sons, chose go to the forest and meet her end this way. In vain was the help Arjuna offered to the god of fire by helping Him to consume the entire Khandava forest. Look at the way Arjuna was repaid, by engulfing his own mother in flames. Did she cry caught in the danger, calling the name of each of us in turn?” Yudhishthira let out his intense sorrow by speaking in this way for a while.
Narada heard him with compassion to the end and then said. “What I heard is that their end was not that accidental. The three of them were waiting, as though, for death with open arms. Then, on the day the tragedy took place, the sages who have been performing the rituals left the fire in the forest unattended. Remember that it was the same fire the king used for worship from the day of his wedding and which he carried with him into the forest. So, we must take it that he has cremated his own body and that of the queens. (Note: The fire from the wedding ritual or Homa is carried home, worshipped every day, morning and evening, and kept going until death. It is the same fire that is used to light the funeral pyre). In that sense they have met natural deaths. Instead of spending time mourning, get down to the task of performing their last rites.”
Yudhishthira, accordingly, went to the shores of Ganga with his brothers and queens, keeping Yuyulsu in the front, all wearing single piece of cloths (as is customary for all rituals, especially, at funerals). Then, they offered ritual water (udaka kriya) for their parents. During the period of mourning (aaSaouca) they all stayed outside the palace (as per the custom). On the twelfth day, at the end of the period of mourning, the king gave liberal gifts (Sraaddha) to Brahmins and to others by way of charity. He also got the final ritual of burying the ashes (asthi sancayana) performed for his parents.
We come to the end of the present chapter, “the arrival of Narada (naaradaagamana parvam)” and of the book of “life in hermitage (aaSrama vaasa parvam)”.
Two years passed after the Pandavas returned to Hastinapura, taking leave of their parents in the forest. One day sage Narada arrived quite unexpectedly in the palace. Yudhishthira received him with all reverence and asked. “It is a long time since we last saw you. Hope, you are keeping well. To which places you have been recently? What can I do for you?”
Narada replied. “I came here just because of that, thinking that I have not met you for a long time. I have been roaming through various holy places, including river Ganga.”
Yudhishthira prompted the sage further. “Some of my subjects living close to the Ganga told me that my uncle has been engaged in severe penances. Did you happen to meet him, my aunt Gandhari and mother Kunti? Have you any news of Sanjaya?”
Narada replied. “Listen to what I have to say with a composed mind. I am going to repeat what I have directly seen or reliably heard from others, exactly as they happened. Your uncle gradually got into the life of a Yati, sustaining life just by breathing. His queen lived merely by drinking water. Your mother ate only once a month. Sanjaya was also engaged in similar austerities.”
“Once the king bathed in the waters of Ganga and started walking towards his hermitage. His queen, your mother and Sanjaya were with him for support. At that time there was a strong wind that blew and wild fire engulfed the place all of a sudden. Birds and animals started burning down in large numbers. Your uncle, sensing the danger asked Sanjaya to escape. He said that the three of them gladly would embrace death in the fire. Sanjaya, though desperate, could not suggest a way of saving the aged king and queens from the fire that was fast approaching. There was only one thing for them to do. He asked them to get into a yogic trance and take full control of all bodily senses so that they would not feel any pain. Sanjaya, after prostrating before the king and queens, quickly got out of the fire. The king and the queens perished in the fire soon after. Sanjaya narrated the incident to the ascetics outside and went to the Himalayas for further penance. Do not grieve for your parents. They all have been waiting eagerly for the end of their lives and have welcomed the fire with open arms.”
The Pandavas were immersed in sorrow hearing the tragic end to the aged king and the queens. So was the entire kingdom of Kurus. Yudhishthira wailed, addressing the heavenly sage. “How sad is the plight of human beings! My uncle, though blind, was as strong as thousand elephants. My aunt gave birth to a hundred sons. Yet, they died helplessly, caught in forest fire. They used to enjoy the breeze from the Vyajana (a fan made of peacock feathers), fanned by beautiful women of the palace. Yet, the flapping of wings by eagles would have blown the wind on their faces at the time of death.”
“I think of my own mother who, instead of enjoying all the wealth earned by her sons, chose go to the forest and meet her end this way. In vain was the help Arjuna offered to the god of fire by helping Him to consume the entire Khandava forest. Look at the way Arjuna was repaid, by engulfing his own mother in flames. Did she cry caught in the danger, calling the name of each of us in turn?” Yudhishthira let out his intense sorrow by speaking in this way for a while.
Narada heard him with compassion to the end and then said. “What I heard is that their end was not that accidental. The three of them were waiting, as though, for death with open arms. Then, on the day the tragedy took place, the sages who have been performing the rituals left the fire in the forest unattended. Remember that it was the same fire the king used for worship from the day of his wedding and which he carried with him into the forest. So, we must take it that he has cremated his own body and that of the queens. (Note: The fire from the wedding ritual or Homa is carried home, worshipped every day, morning and evening, and kept going until death. It is the same fire that is used to light the funeral pyre). In that sense they have met natural deaths. Instead of spending time mourning, get down to the task of performing their last rites.”
Yudhishthira, accordingly, went to the shores of Ganga with his brothers and queens, keeping Yuyulsu in the front, all wearing single piece of cloths (as is customary for all rituals, especially, at funerals). Then, they offered ritual water (udaka kriya) for their parents. During the period of mourning (aaSaouca) they all stayed outside the palace (as per the custom). On the twelfth day, at the end of the period of mourning, the king gave liberal gifts (Sraaddha) to Brahmins and to others by way of charity. He also got the final ritual of burying the ashes (asthi sancayana) performed for his parents.
We come to the end of the present chapter, “the arrival of Narada (naaradaagamana parvam)” and of the book of “life in hermitage (aaSrama vaasa parvam)”.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Meeting with the dead heroes
We start now the new chapter titled, “the meeting with the Sons (putra darSana parvam)”.
Vedavyasa concluded the story of Vidura. He must have sensed the loss of the saintly Vidura felt by his family members. He also would have guessed the general melancholic mood that prevailed with the thought of the dead war heroes. That must have prompted the great sage to offer the Pandavas and their aged uncle and aunt to fulfill whatever they desired.
Sage Narada also happened to come there at that time in the company of other celestial sages. Dhritarashtra received his divine guests with all reverence and offered them seats and refreshments. When all the new comers were properly seated Vedavyasa turned to the blind Dhritarashtra and repeated his offer. But, the aged king only lamented over the foolishness on the part of his sons that resulted in the disastrous war.
Gandhari, who was aggrieved by the sad news of Vidura’s end, was saddened even further listening to her husband’s words. She spoke to the sage. “We have spent sixteen years this way. My husband continues to mourn over the tragic loss of our sons even after retiring to the forest. You have all the powers in you to bring before us even those who live in other worlds. It is clear that what the king wants most is to see his sons again, just for once. That is what I desire, too. I am sure that Kunti, Subhadra and all other Pandava queens will have similar wishes which they have not spoken out.”
Vyasa, then, turned to Kunti and asked what she had in mind. The queen of Pandu, then, with a lot of hesitation spoke about the birth of her first son, Karna, when she was just a maiden. She lamented over her ill fate which made her discard him at birth that resulted in all the tragedies. The sage consoled the Pandava queen that she had acted as per the circumstance and should not repent over that. He revealed the past life of all the veterans, of which we are familiar with that of the Pandavas . Vyasa said that the deity of the third epoch, Dwapara (dwaapara), took birth as Sakuni. Duryodhana was the incarnation of the deity of the fourth epoch, Kali. (The pair, Kali and Dwapara, had played a vital and notorious role in the story of Nala and Damayanti, which we have already covered).
Vyasa concluded the narration of the past life (amSa kathanam) of the Pandavas and Kauravas and said. “The time has come for you to meet the dead heroes of the war in person and get over your sorrow. Come to the shores of Ganga this night”.
The announcement of Vyasa brought cheers in the minds of all. They waited with heavy expectation for the night to fall. Then all, including Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Kunti and the Pandavas proceeded to the Ganga. They performed the evening prayers after bathing in the sacred waters of the river and waited for the miracle to happen.
Vyasa, who was waiting for the appropriate time for action, walked down into the river and called out to all who were killed in the war to rise and come out. There was a big noise at that time that arose from the waters of Ganga. All saw the veteran Bhishma and Drona come out alive accompanied by their huge army of soldiers who had died fighting the war. Karna, Duryodhana and all his brothers also materialized in person. So did the sons of Draupadi and all the Panchala princes. Each came out mounted on his own horse or in chariot, carrying his mast and other decorations.
Vyasa gave temporary sight to Dhritarashtra, and to Gandhari to see all without removing her blindfold. The war veterans arose with the glow of divinities appearing in person. Gandharvas appeared on the scene singing divine songs and the Apsara women danced to the tune.
Wives met their husbands and parents met their children. Arch enemies in war met each other as good friends, forgetting the past. All forgot that they had ever separated and enjoyed the night in the company of their dear ones. At day break those who came by the power of Vyasa knew that the time had arrived for them to depart. So, they started bidding farewell to their relations. They embraced each other and went back to the Ganga one by one and in groups. As everyone watched in surprise, those who were in their midst in body and soul sank into the waters of the holy river and disappeared.
Vyasa announced at that time, mainly addressing the widows of the deceased. “Those of you, who want to reach heaven where your husbands live, may take a dip in the river at this point of time.” Many were keen and took the permission of their relations. They, then, did as the sage told them. It is said that all those women left this world and joined their husbands in the other world.
Janamejaya was thrilled by the narration of Vaisampayana of this strange meeting between the living and dead. He also expressed a desire to meet his dead father, Parikshit, for once. It is said that the disciple of Vyasa, with the help of his teacher, fulfilled the desire of Pandava king at that time.
After returning to the hermitage of Dhritarashtra, sage Vyasa asked the king. “The Pandavas have been here for more than a month. Their duty lies in Hastinapura, looking after the affairs of the state. It is high time that they returned.”
Dhritarashtra, accordingly, called Yudhishthira to his side and said. “Today I have achieved a long cherished desire of mine to see my children once again. It is time that you go back to your palace now. Your duty as king and mine as an ascetic are both being disrupted by your being here.”
Yudhishthira was reluctant to leave his mother, uncle and aunt in the forest and return. But, both Dhritarashtra and Gandhari insisted that he should now go back. Kunti also persuaded her son to return to Hastinapura. Accordingly, all the Pandavas took leave of their parents and returned to their palace in the company of those who followed them to the forest.
The chapter on “the meeting with the Sons (putra darSana parvam)” ends here.
Vedavyasa concluded the story of Vidura. He must have sensed the loss of the saintly Vidura felt by his family members. He also would have guessed the general melancholic mood that prevailed with the thought of the dead war heroes. That must have prompted the great sage to offer the Pandavas and their aged uncle and aunt to fulfill whatever they desired.
Sage Narada also happened to come there at that time in the company of other celestial sages. Dhritarashtra received his divine guests with all reverence and offered them seats and refreshments. When all the new comers were properly seated Vedavyasa turned to the blind Dhritarashtra and repeated his offer. But, the aged king only lamented over the foolishness on the part of his sons that resulted in the disastrous war.
Gandhari, who was aggrieved by the sad news of Vidura’s end, was saddened even further listening to her husband’s words. She spoke to the sage. “We have spent sixteen years this way. My husband continues to mourn over the tragic loss of our sons even after retiring to the forest. You have all the powers in you to bring before us even those who live in other worlds. It is clear that what the king wants most is to see his sons again, just for once. That is what I desire, too. I am sure that Kunti, Subhadra and all other Pandava queens will have similar wishes which they have not spoken out.”
Vyasa, then, turned to Kunti and asked what she had in mind. The queen of Pandu, then, with a lot of hesitation spoke about the birth of her first son, Karna, when she was just a maiden. She lamented over her ill fate which made her discard him at birth that resulted in all the tragedies. The sage consoled the Pandava queen that she had acted as per the circumstance and should not repent over that. He revealed the past life of all the veterans, of which we are familiar with that of the Pandavas . Vyasa said that the deity of the third epoch, Dwapara (dwaapara), took birth as Sakuni. Duryodhana was the incarnation of the deity of the fourth epoch, Kali. (The pair, Kali and Dwapara, had played a vital and notorious role in the story of Nala and Damayanti, which we have already covered).
Vyasa concluded the narration of the past life (amSa kathanam) of the Pandavas and Kauravas and said. “The time has come for you to meet the dead heroes of the war in person and get over your sorrow. Come to the shores of Ganga this night”.
The announcement of Vyasa brought cheers in the minds of all. They waited with heavy expectation for the night to fall. Then all, including Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Kunti and the Pandavas proceeded to the Ganga. They performed the evening prayers after bathing in the sacred waters of the river and waited for the miracle to happen.
Vyasa, who was waiting for the appropriate time for action, walked down into the river and called out to all who were killed in the war to rise and come out. There was a big noise at that time that arose from the waters of Ganga. All saw the veteran Bhishma and Drona come out alive accompanied by their huge army of soldiers who had died fighting the war. Karna, Duryodhana and all his brothers also materialized in person. So did the sons of Draupadi and all the Panchala princes. Each came out mounted on his own horse or in chariot, carrying his mast and other decorations.
Vyasa gave temporary sight to Dhritarashtra, and to Gandhari to see all without removing her blindfold. The war veterans arose with the glow of divinities appearing in person. Gandharvas appeared on the scene singing divine songs and the Apsara women danced to the tune.
Wives met their husbands and parents met their children. Arch enemies in war met each other as good friends, forgetting the past. All forgot that they had ever separated and enjoyed the night in the company of their dear ones. At day break those who came by the power of Vyasa knew that the time had arrived for them to depart. So, they started bidding farewell to their relations. They embraced each other and went back to the Ganga one by one and in groups. As everyone watched in surprise, those who were in their midst in body and soul sank into the waters of the holy river and disappeared.
Vyasa announced at that time, mainly addressing the widows of the deceased. “Those of you, who want to reach heaven where your husbands live, may take a dip in the river at this point of time.” Many were keen and took the permission of their relations. They, then, did as the sage told them. It is said that all those women left this world and joined their husbands in the other world.
Janamejaya was thrilled by the narration of Vaisampayana of this strange meeting between the living and dead. He also expressed a desire to meet his dead father, Parikshit, for once. It is said that the disciple of Vyasa, with the help of his teacher, fulfilled the desire of Pandava king at that time.
After returning to the hermitage of Dhritarashtra, sage Vyasa asked the king. “The Pandavas have been here for more than a month. Their duty lies in Hastinapura, looking after the affairs of the state. It is high time that they returned.”
Dhritarashtra, accordingly, called Yudhishthira to his side and said. “Today I have achieved a long cherished desire of mine to see my children once again. It is time that you go back to your palace now. Your duty as king and mine as an ascetic are both being disrupted by your being here.”
Yudhishthira was reluctant to leave his mother, uncle and aunt in the forest and return. But, both Dhritarashtra and Gandhari insisted that he should now go back. Kunti also persuaded her son to return to Hastinapura. Accordingly, all the Pandavas took leave of their parents and returned to their palace in the company of those who followed them to the forest.
The chapter on “the meeting with the Sons (putra darSana parvam)” ends here.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
The end of Vidura
Dhritarashtra mentioned that Vidura was roaming about the forest as a Yati barely sustaining life by breathing. Just at that moment the Pandava could see a skeleton like figure walking towards him.
It was difficult to recognize his uncle in his present state. The Pandava king announced himself with all reverence and moved with quick steps forward to greet him. Vidura, it appeared, looked at Yudhishthira without batting his eye lids. At that time the Pandava king felt that those eyes penetrated deep into his own. He also felt that a great power had entered into his body and filled every cell within. Yudhishthira felt himself in such perfect tranquility in mind at that time the like of which he had never felt before. He also felt that he became internally much stronger and wiser.
As this happened Yudhishthira also noticed that the body of Vidura collapsed against a tree that stood right behind him. The lifeless eyes of his uncle remained open. The extraordinary life of the great Vidura had come to an end.
Yudhishthira was overcome with sorrow and bewilderment. He had great regard for his wise and loving uncle all along. But, only the lifeless body of the saint like Vidura remained.
The Pandava king realized that his immediate duty was to perform the proper cremation of the body of his uncle. Just at that time a voice was heard from the sky. “Oh, King! You should not think of cremating this body because he has followed the path of Yatis. Know that he has become one with you in body and soul. Do not repent for his loss.”
Yudhishthira was overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events and hearing those words. He returned to Dhritarashtra and reported the matter to him. The blind king and all those around him were astonished listening to the extraordinary end to the life of Vidura.
Dhritarashtra’s Hospitality
Later on the day Dhritarashtra offered some nuts, fruit and water to his visitors from Hastinapura and said. “This is what I have that I can offer you by way of hospitality. You should be satisfied with this.”
All ate what the ascetic king offered them. The Pandavas spent the night sleeping next to their mother. The others slept underneath trees around the hermitage.
The hermitage of Dhritarashtra
Next morning all performed their morning rituals and went around the place with the permission of Dhritarashtra. The beauty and tranquility of the place won the admiration of the visitors from Hastinapura.
They could find hermits performing rituals in front of fire in small groups here and there. The sound of their chanting of Vedic hymns filled the air. The smoke that rose from the ritual fire covered wild flowers on trees around. It appeared that the flowers, themselves, were like hermits performing the offerings in front of fire. Herds of deer stood in groups here and there unconcerned of human presence. Peacocks danced with joy. The cuckoos sang “kuhoo, kuhoo” beautifully aloud. The serenity of the hermitage and its surroundings filled the minds of the Pandavas with great joy and admiration.
Yudhishthira had brought gifts of pitchers and other vessels used in rituals made of copper, silver and even gold. He distributed them to all the hermits who lived in the forests near by.
One month passed this way in which the Pandavas enjoyed the serene life in the forest in the company of their mother, uncle and aunt, and other ascetics. Then, one day the great Vedavyasa reached the place with his disciples. Several other sages, including Satayupa were present in the hermitage of Dhritarashtra at that time.
Vedavyasa enquired of the welfare of Dhritarashtra and of those who stayed with him in the forest. He asked whether the king was happy to meet his nephews forgetting all past ill feelings. Then, he narrated the story behind the birth of Vidura to all those who had assembled.
It was widely known that the god of Righteousness, called the Dharmaraja (dharmaraaja), was cursed by a sage by name Ani Mandavya to be born as human for punishing him too severely for one of his childhood pranks. Dharmaraja, then, took birth as the son of Vedavyasa to the maid of Gandhari. (We have gone through this earlier, in the beginning of the Mahabharata story). All the gods are infinite in form and only one part of the god of Dharma was born as Vidura. Another part took birth as Yudhishthira. The god, yet, continued to perform his duties based in heaven by punishing or rewarding humans for their evil or meritorious actions.
Vyasa concluded his story saying that Vidura and Yudhishthira were one and the same person. He said that the purpose of his present visit was to make this point clear. Then, he offered the king and the queens that he would fulfill whatever desire they had in their hearts.
The present chapter, “of life in the hermitage (aaSrama vaasika parvam)” ends here.
It was difficult to recognize his uncle in his present state. The Pandava king announced himself with all reverence and moved with quick steps forward to greet him. Vidura, it appeared, looked at Yudhishthira without batting his eye lids. At that time the Pandava king felt that those eyes penetrated deep into his own. He also felt that a great power had entered into his body and filled every cell within. Yudhishthira felt himself in such perfect tranquility in mind at that time the like of which he had never felt before. He also felt that he became internally much stronger and wiser.
As this happened Yudhishthira also noticed that the body of Vidura collapsed against a tree that stood right behind him. The lifeless eyes of his uncle remained open. The extraordinary life of the great Vidura had come to an end.
Yudhishthira was overcome with sorrow and bewilderment. He had great regard for his wise and loving uncle all along. But, only the lifeless body of the saint like Vidura remained.
The Pandava king realized that his immediate duty was to perform the proper cremation of the body of his uncle. Just at that time a voice was heard from the sky. “Oh, King! You should not think of cremating this body because he has followed the path of Yatis. Know that he has become one with you in body and soul. Do not repent for his loss.”
Yudhishthira was overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events and hearing those words. He returned to Dhritarashtra and reported the matter to him. The blind king and all those around him were astonished listening to the extraordinary end to the life of Vidura.
Dhritarashtra’s Hospitality
Later on the day Dhritarashtra offered some nuts, fruit and water to his visitors from Hastinapura and said. “This is what I have that I can offer you by way of hospitality. You should be satisfied with this.”
All ate what the ascetic king offered them. The Pandavas spent the night sleeping next to their mother. The others slept underneath trees around the hermitage.
The hermitage of Dhritarashtra
Next morning all performed their morning rituals and went around the place with the permission of Dhritarashtra. The beauty and tranquility of the place won the admiration of the visitors from Hastinapura.
They could find hermits performing rituals in front of fire in small groups here and there. The sound of their chanting of Vedic hymns filled the air. The smoke that rose from the ritual fire covered wild flowers on trees around. It appeared that the flowers, themselves, were like hermits performing the offerings in front of fire. Herds of deer stood in groups here and there unconcerned of human presence. Peacocks danced with joy. The cuckoos sang “kuhoo, kuhoo” beautifully aloud. The serenity of the hermitage and its surroundings filled the minds of the Pandavas with great joy and admiration.
Yudhishthira had brought gifts of pitchers and other vessels used in rituals made of copper, silver and even gold. He distributed them to all the hermits who lived in the forests near by.
One month passed this way in which the Pandavas enjoyed the serene life in the forest in the company of their mother, uncle and aunt, and other ascetics. Then, one day the great Vedavyasa reached the place with his disciples. Several other sages, including Satayupa were present in the hermitage of Dhritarashtra at that time.
Vedavyasa enquired of the welfare of Dhritarashtra and of those who stayed with him in the forest. He asked whether the king was happy to meet his nephews forgetting all past ill feelings. Then, he narrated the story behind the birth of Vidura to all those who had assembled.
It was widely known that the god of Righteousness, called the Dharmaraja (dharmaraaja), was cursed by a sage by name Ani Mandavya to be born as human for punishing him too severely for one of his childhood pranks. Dharmaraja, then, took birth as the son of Vedavyasa to the maid of Gandhari. (We have gone through this earlier, in the beginning of the Mahabharata story). All the gods are infinite in form and only one part of the god of Dharma was born as Vidura. Another part took birth as Yudhishthira. The god, yet, continued to perform his duties based in heaven by punishing or rewarding humans for their evil or meritorious actions.
Vyasa concluded his story saying that Vidura and Yudhishthira were one and the same person. He said that the purpose of his present visit was to make this point clear. Then, he offered the king and the queens that he would fulfill whatever desire they had in their hearts.
The present chapter, “of life in the hermitage (aaSrama vaasika parvam)” ends here.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
A tearful re-union
Introduction
It will be useful to be aware that various paths are followed in ascetic life. They may be considered to be stages in the step by step approach to complete renunciation. The highest among them is known as the path of a Yati. In that stage there is absolute control over all senses, including hunger and thirst. A Yati exists purely waiting for his time of death. He moves around without any cloths on (digambara) and sleeps on the bare ground. He does not bother about personal hygiene. He does not eat any food, or drink water to quench thirst. He has his teeth firmly holding the bark of a tree to facilitate breathing and to prevent the tongue slipping down the throat.
Meeting with Kunti, Dhritarashtra and Gandhari
The Pandavas went in the direction pointed out by the forest dwelling sages and found their parents at a distance. Sahadeva ran towards Kunti and fell at her feet with tears in eyes. Kunti lifted her (step) son up and stroked him with gentle hands. She, then, mentioned his arrival to the blind folded Gandhari and moved forward to meet others.
Yudhishthira and his other brothers fell at the feet of their mother first. The sorrow of separation and the joy of re-union came out as tears from all eyes. Kunti announced her sons to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari as each of them prostrated before them in turn. The Kaurava king embraced each and recognized them by the touch and by their voices. The blind pair pacified the Pandavas sensing the intensity of emotion in their hearts.
The sages who were present were touched by the emotional scene. They had heard much about the Pandavas, but, did not have the chance to meet them in person. They asked Sanjaya for the necessary introduction.
Sanjaya described each in the order of seniority. “Look at the one with a prominent nose, red tinged large eyes, shining with the glow of gold and appearing like a lion. He is the Pandava king, Yudhishthira. You can find the one with his skin like molten gold, with long, muscular arms and with the gait of a haughty elephant. Know him to be Bhima, reputed by the name of Vrikodara, one with an appetite of a wolf.”
Sanjaya continued. “See for yourself the young man standing next to Bhima, dark in complexion and appearing like the best of elephants. He has his shoulders held high like a lion and has lotus shaped eyes. He is Arjuna, the best among bowmen. Can you find a pair standing close to Kunti? You never find men who equal them in looks, strength and character. They are the twins, Nakula and Sahadeva.”
Sanjaya continued to describe Draupadi, Subhadra, Chitrangada and the wives of other Pandavas.
Dhritarashtra’s words
After the first round of greetings Dhritarashtra asked Yudhishthira. “Are you and your people not keeping well? Are not those who serve you, like your teachers, ministers and servants living in good health? Are you not reigning over your country following the rules set by your illustrious ancestors? Hope, your treasury is getting filled through righteous means. I assume that you are able to keep a well balanced stance between friends and enemies. I take that you are looking after the welfare of all your citizens, especially, of the Brahmins in your kingdom.”
Yudhishthira confirmed that he was following all the advices given by his uncle in the past and was ruling the country to his best abilities. He then, enquired how he, the pious Gandhari and his mother, Kunti managing their life in the forest. Was his uncle not managing to perform his austerities well in the forest, supported by his mother, aunt and the minister, Sanjaya?
Then, Yudhishthira remembered and enquired about the wise Vidura. “I did not find my uncle Vidura with you. Where is he?”
Dhritarashtra replied. “My son, Vidura has been getting into more and more severe forms of penance. He has become a mere skeleton with all the veins showing up beneath his skin. Finally, he has become a Yati and is roaming about. He has stopped eating and drinking altogether and survives purely by breathing air. The sages often spot him in such a condition moving here and there in the forest unconcerned of everything else.
Yudhishthira was very eager to meet his uncle who meant so much to him throughout his life in the palace and outside.
(To be continued)
It will be useful to be aware that various paths are followed in ascetic life. They may be considered to be stages in the step by step approach to complete renunciation. The highest among them is known as the path of a Yati. In that stage there is absolute control over all senses, including hunger and thirst. A Yati exists purely waiting for his time of death. He moves around without any cloths on (digambara) and sleeps on the bare ground. He does not bother about personal hygiene. He does not eat any food, or drink water to quench thirst. He has his teeth firmly holding the bark of a tree to facilitate breathing and to prevent the tongue slipping down the throat.
Meeting with Kunti, Dhritarashtra and Gandhari
The Pandavas went in the direction pointed out by the forest dwelling sages and found their parents at a distance. Sahadeva ran towards Kunti and fell at her feet with tears in eyes. Kunti lifted her (step) son up and stroked him with gentle hands. She, then, mentioned his arrival to the blind folded Gandhari and moved forward to meet others.
Yudhishthira and his other brothers fell at the feet of their mother first. The sorrow of separation and the joy of re-union came out as tears from all eyes. Kunti announced her sons to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari as each of them prostrated before them in turn. The Kaurava king embraced each and recognized them by the touch and by their voices. The blind pair pacified the Pandavas sensing the intensity of emotion in their hearts.
The sages who were present were touched by the emotional scene. They had heard much about the Pandavas, but, did not have the chance to meet them in person. They asked Sanjaya for the necessary introduction.
Sanjaya described each in the order of seniority. “Look at the one with a prominent nose, red tinged large eyes, shining with the glow of gold and appearing like a lion. He is the Pandava king, Yudhishthira. You can find the one with his skin like molten gold, with long, muscular arms and with the gait of a haughty elephant. Know him to be Bhima, reputed by the name of Vrikodara, one with an appetite of a wolf.”
Sanjaya continued. “See for yourself the young man standing next to Bhima, dark in complexion and appearing like the best of elephants. He has his shoulders held high like a lion and has lotus shaped eyes. He is Arjuna, the best among bowmen. Can you find a pair standing close to Kunti? You never find men who equal them in looks, strength and character. They are the twins, Nakula and Sahadeva.”
Sanjaya continued to describe Draupadi, Subhadra, Chitrangada and the wives of other Pandavas.
Dhritarashtra’s words
After the first round of greetings Dhritarashtra asked Yudhishthira. “Are you and your people not keeping well? Are not those who serve you, like your teachers, ministers and servants living in good health? Are you not reigning over your country following the rules set by your illustrious ancestors? Hope, your treasury is getting filled through righteous means. I assume that you are able to keep a well balanced stance between friends and enemies. I take that you are looking after the welfare of all your citizens, especially, of the Brahmins in your kingdom.”
Yudhishthira confirmed that he was following all the advices given by his uncle in the past and was ruling the country to his best abilities. He then, enquired how he, the pious Gandhari and his mother, Kunti managing their life in the forest. Was his uncle not managing to perform his austerities well in the forest, supported by his mother, aunt and the minister, Sanjaya?
Then, Yudhishthira remembered and enquired about the wise Vidura. “I did not find my uncle Vidura with you. Where is he?”
Dhritarashtra replied. “My son, Vidura has been getting into more and more severe forms of penance. He has become a mere skeleton with all the veins showing up beneath his skin. Finally, he has become a Yati and is roaming about. He has stopped eating and drinking altogether and survives purely by breathing air. The sages often spot him in such a condition moving here and there in the forest unconcerned of everything else.
Yudhishthira was very eager to meet his uncle who meant so much to him throughout his life in the palace and outside.
(To be continued)
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Days of mourning in Hastinapura
The Pandavas, meanwhile, spent their time in Hastinapura, saddened with thoughts of their mother, uncle and aunt. They often wailed. “How will our mother, weak and frail, manage to support the blind king and his queen? How does our uncle bear the loss of his sons when alone in the forest? How are the aged people surviving in the wilderness, in the middle of ferocious animals? ”.
Immersed in anxious thoughts, they lost interest in the affairs of the State and even in the daily religious rites. Citizens who went to the palace in distress failed to get any response from the brooding king. In such sorrowful mood the tragic scenes of war haunted their minds again and again. They lamented the killing of their grandfather Bhishma, teacher Drona and of several others dear to them. Draupadi thought of the wanton killing of all her sons by the revengeful Aswatthama. Subhadra and Uttara looked at Parikshit and grieved for the valiant Abhimanyu for days together.
Ordinary citizens met in small groups and talked about their aged king who retired to the forest. They wondered aloud. “How will our blind king manage in isolation in such desolate places? He lived all along in luxury in the palace. How will the aged queens survive there? The noble Kunti must be missing her dear sons badly. How are the sage like Vidura and wise Sanjaya surviving in the dense forest?”
A visit to the forest
It was Sahadeva who broached the topic one day. He went to Yudhishthira and said. “Brother, I suspect that your mind, like mine, is wandering through the forest after our aged parents. I think that it will be an excellent idea to pay them now a visit. Let us find for ourselves how our mother, with her frail body, manages to take care of her in-laws all by herself there.” Sahadeva’s words found immediate response in favour from all his brothers.
Draupadi was also thinking in those lines when she heard the words of her young husband. She, immediately, joined in the discussion. “My heart aches with the thought of our dear mother. I often wonder whether she remains alive. Please take me also with you.” All the other queens expressed a similar desire through words or by mere looks.
The news of a possible royal visit to the forest was the topic of current interest in the palace and outside. It was soon clear that there were several others who would, given a chance, like to join in.
Elaborate preparations
It was one thing for the five Pandavas to go by themselves and yet another to take the ladies with them. So, the Pandava king ordered an army of servants and soldiers to be made ready. He declared that any of his subjects who so desired to accompany the royal visit to the forest would be allowed to do so. This was announced in every nook and corner of the kingdom days in advance. The king also ordered temporary rest houses with all amenities to be built along the path to be followed.
On the day of journey Yudhishthira climbed into his golden chariot with two of his assistants gently fanning him, befitting his royal status, with the camara (caamara or the camara tail fan). Bhima mounted himself on a mighty elephant. Arjuna drove his usual chariot driven by his favourite white stallions. Nakula and Sahadeva accompanied them on horse back. The Pandava queens like Draupadi, Subhadra, Uttara were carried on palanquins. Others followed in whatever transport they could get or on foot. All were keen to meet their aged king and queens leading ascetic life in the forest. The venerable Kripa was in charge of the army, travelling a little ahead of the rest.
The royal procession rested at night on river banks wherever shelters were provided on the way. Villagers came to pay tribute to the visiting monarchs. Draupadi and other queens distributed liberal gifts to all those who came to meet them.
After five days of journey the Pandavas reached the outskirts of the forest. They alighted from their vehicles and left the army at a distance. All then started moving into the forest on foot.
They met a few sages on the way to whom Yudhishthira asked, with his eyes filled with tears, about the whereabouts of the blind Kaurava king. The sages pointed to the river Yamuna and said that the king had gone there to collect water for his daily prayers. All, then, proceeded in that direction.
Immersed in anxious thoughts, they lost interest in the affairs of the State and even in the daily religious rites. Citizens who went to the palace in distress failed to get any response from the brooding king. In such sorrowful mood the tragic scenes of war haunted their minds again and again. They lamented the killing of their grandfather Bhishma, teacher Drona and of several others dear to them. Draupadi thought of the wanton killing of all her sons by the revengeful Aswatthama. Subhadra and Uttara looked at Parikshit and grieved for the valiant Abhimanyu for days together.
Ordinary citizens met in small groups and talked about their aged king who retired to the forest. They wondered aloud. “How will our blind king manage in isolation in such desolate places? He lived all along in luxury in the palace. How will the aged queens survive there? The noble Kunti must be missing her dear sons badly. How are the sage like Vidura and wise Sanjaya surviving in the dense forest?”
A visit to the forest
It was Sahadeva who broached the topic one day. He went to Yudhishthira and said. “Brother, I suspect that your mind, like mine, is wandering through the forest after our aged parents. I think that it will be an excellent idea to pay them now a visit. Let us find for ourselves how our mother, with her frail body, manages to take care of her in-laws all by herself there.” Sahadeva’s words found immediate response in favour from all his brothers.
Draupadi was also thinking in those lines when she heard the words of her young husband. She, immediately, joined in the discussion. “My heart aches with the thought of our dear mother. I often wonder whether she remains alive. Please take me also with you.” All the other queens expressed a similar desire through words or by mere looks.
The news of a possible royal visit to the forest was the topic of current interest in the palace and outside. It was soon clear that there were several others who would, given a chance, like to join in.
Elaborate preparations
It was one thing for the five Pandavas to go by themselves and yet another to take the ladies with them. So, the Pandava king ordered an army of servants and soldiers to be made ready. He declared that any of his subjects who so desired to accompany the royal visit to the forest would be allowed to do so. This was announced in every nook and corner of the kingdom days in advance. The king also ordered temporary rest houses with all amenities to be built along the path to be followed.
On the day of journey Yudhishthira climbed into his golden chariot with two of his assistants gently fanning him, befitting his royal status, with the camara (caamara or the camara tail fan). Bhima mounted himself on a mighty elephant. Arjuna drove his usual chariot driven by his favourite white stallions. Nakula and Sahadeva accompanied them on horse back. The Pandava queens like Draupadi, Subhadra, Uttara were carried on palanquins. Others followed in whatever transport they could get or on foot. All were keen to meet their aged king and queens leading ascetic life in the forest. The venerable Kripa was in charge of the army, travelling a little ahead of the rest.
The royal procession rested at night on river banks wherever shelters were provided on the way. Villagers came to pay tribute to the visiting monarchs. Draupadi and other queens distributed liberal gifts to all those who came to meet them.
After five days of journey the Pandavas reached the outskirts of the forest. They alighted from their vehicles and left the army at a distance. All then started moving into the forest on foot.
They met a few sages on the way to whom Yudhishthira asked, with his eyes filled with tears, about the whereabouts of the blind Kaurava king. The sages pointed to the river Yamuna and said that the king had gone there to collect water for his daily prayers. All, then, proceeded in that direction.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Days of Dhritarashtra in the forest
After persuading the Pandavas and their subjects to return, Dhritarashtra and his group reached the shores of Ganga in the forest before the night fell. The blind king walked with support on the shoulders of his queen. Kunti held the hand of her sister-in-law and lead her forward. This way the three found their way in the dense forest.
In the evening all took a holy dip in the refreshing waters of Ganga. The Brahmins lit fires here and there for the evening prayers. Dhritarashtra offered his worship (agni upaasana) to the fire and to the setting sun (sandhyopaasana). Then, all made preparations for sleep. The Darbha grass was spread on the floor as bed for all. Dhritarashtra lay down in one and the venerable Gandhari, next to him. Kunti chose a place close by to the aged Kaurava pair. Vidura and Sanjaya remained at a distance, but, close enough at the beck and call of their king. The others spread themselves around the banks of Ganga. The separation from their close ones and the tearful scene of bidding farewell weighed heavy in their hearts.
In the hermitage of Satayupa
All woke up early next morning and performed the morning rituals at the shores of Ganga. Later, hearing the news of the arrival of the august Kaurava king several people came there to meet him. Dhritarashtra received them cordially and entertained them for a while with various stories. Then, hearing of sage Satayupa (Satayoopa) meditating in Kurukshetra, Dhritarashtra went to his hermitage in the company of his people.
Satayupa was the king of Kekaya. He had anointed his son as the king and had retired to the forest long ago. Then, with intense meditation he had reached the status of a ‘royal sage (raajarshi)’ like the famous Viswamitra.
The two erstwhile kings spent their time in each other’s company for a while. They, then, went to meet Vedavyasa in his hermitage. It was sage Vyasa who suggested to Dhritarashtra to spend his time in the forest in the hermitage of Satayupa. The sage requested the latter to instruct the aged Kaurava on the disciplines to be followed in life in the forest.
Thus, Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti started living in the hermitage of Satayupa and receiving his valuable teachings on life in forests (vaanaprastha). Following the advice of the royal sage they started meditating, with supreme control of their mind, words and actions, and on all their sense organs. Gradually, attired in animal skin and tree barks and with matted hair, the aged king and the queens were reduced to bare bones and skin. Vidura and Sanjaya remained by the side of the king engaged in his services.
Visit by Narada
Sage Narada accompanied by his disciples and Vedavyasa paid a visit to the Kaurava king while he remained in the hermitage of Satayupa. The celestial sage narrated the stories of the grandfather of Satayupa, by name sahasracitya, who had reached the abode of Indra after accumulating enough merits through years of penance. He also gave the example of the grandfather of the brave Bhagadatta and of the son of Mandhata (one of the sixteen kings narrated earlier) and of a few other kings who all had attained great heights in meditation before they left this world. At the end Narada said. “Your (step) brother, Pandu, who lives happily in the world (heaven) of Indra thinks of you every day.”
When Narada finished his talk, sage Satayupa asked him. “You are blessed with the knowledge of the past, present and future (trikaalajna) and you told us about king Pandu having reached the heaven governed by Indra. I am curious to know about the future in store for this Kaurava king.”
In reply, sage Narada continued. “When I was with Indra recently this topic came up for discussion there. There was good appreciation for the austerities performed by Dhritarashtra and the Kaurava queens. Then, Indra told me that three more years were left in the life of Dhritarashtra on earth. Then, he would reach the abode of Kubera, the god of riches.” All were thrilled to hear the auspicious news.
Then, sage Narada and his disciples took leave of his hosts in the hermitage.
In the evening all took a holy dip in the refreshing waters of Ganga. The Brahmins lit fires here and there for the evening prayers. Dhritarashtra offered his worship (agni upaasana) to the fire and to the setting sun (sandhyopaasana). Then, all made preparations for sleep. The Darbha grass was spread on the floor as bed for all. Dhritarashtra lay down in one and the venerable Gandhari, next to him. Kunti chose a place close by to the aged Kaurava pair. Vidura and Sanjaya remained at a distance, but, close enough at the beck and call of their king. The others spread themselves around the banks of Ganga. The separation from their close ones and the tearful scene of bidding farewell weighed heavy in their hearts.
In the hermitage of Satayupa
All woke up early next morning and performed the morning rituals at the shores of Ganga. Later, hearing the news of the arrival of the august Kaurava king several people came there to meet him. Dhritarashtra received them cordially and entertained them for a while with various stories. Then, hearing of sage Satayupa (Satayoopa) meditating in Kurukshetra, Dhritarashtra went to his hermitage in the company of his people.
Satayupa was the king of Kekaya. He had anointed his son as the king and had retired to the forest long ago. Then, with intense meditation he had reached the status of a ‘royal sage (raajarshi)’ like the famous Viswamitra.
The two erstwhile kings spent their time in each other’s company for a while. They, then, went to meet Vedavyasa in his hermitage. It was sage Vyasa who suggested to Dhritarashtra to spend his time in the forest in the hermitage of Satayupa. The sage requested the latter to instruct the aged Kaurava on the disciplines to be followed in life in the forest.
Thus, Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti started living in the hermitage of Satayupa and receiving his valuable teachings on life in forests (vaanaprastha). Following the advice of the royal sage they started meditating, with supreme control of their mind, words and actions, and on all their sense organs. Gradually, attired in animal skin and tree barks and with matted hair, the aged king and the queens were reduced to bare bones and skin. Vidura and Sanjaya remained by the side of the king engaged in his services.
Visit by Narada
Sage Narada accompanied by his disciples and Vedavyasa paid a visit to the Kaurava king while he remained in the hermitage of Satayupa. The celestial sage narrated the stories of the grandfather of Satayupa, by name sahasracitya, who had reached the abode of Indra after accumulating enough merits through years of penance. He also gave the example of the grandfather of the brave Bhagadatta and of the son of Mandhata (one of the sixteen kings narrated earlier) and of a few other kings who all had attained great heights in meditation before they left this world. At the end Narada said. “Your (step) brother, Pandu, who lives happily in the world (heaven) of Indra thinks of you every day.”
When Narada finished his talk, sage Satayupa asked him. “You are blessed with the knowledge of the past, present and future (trikaalajna) and you told us about king Pandu having reached the heaven governed by Indra. I am curious to know about the future in store for this Kaurava king.”
In reply, sage Narada continued. “When I was with Indra recently this topic came up for discussion there. There was good appreciation for the austerities performed by Dhritarashtra and the Kaurava queens. Then, Indra told me that three more years were left in the life of Dhritarashtra on earth. Then, he would reach the abode of Kubera, the god of riches.” All were thrilled to hear the auspicious news.
Then, sage Narada and his disciples took leave of his hosts in the hermitage.
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