The War – Day 17 (Part 9)

Karna

Before we witness the historic fight between Karna and Arjuna let us remember a few details. Both were born of Kunti, the former as the son of the sun god and the latter, of Indra. Karna was, truly, the first born even before Kunti got married to Pandu. That single irony of fate resulted in Karna’s adoption by the charioteer of Duryodhana and his feeling of inferiority as compared to the royal status of his younger brothers.

Karna had stooped low in all his dealings with the Pandavas. But, all that could be explained through the one single greatness in him, his unflinching loyalty to Duryodhana. That was evident when Kunti revealed his true identity and asked him to side with the Pandavas. He did not hesitate even for a second to say that he would be with the Kauravas to the end.

It appeared that Arjuna had an upper hand against Karna on almost all occasions when the two faced one another in the past. Yet, Karna had proven his true skills at the very first time when all the Pandavas and Kauravas appeared for their test in front of Drona and the elder Kurus. Every one had acknowledged on that occasion that it was Karna who would pose the greatest challenge to Arjuna. Each viewed the other as his true enemy from that day to the very end. Let us remember, on this occasion, his promise to Kunti.

“You will be left with five children, in either case, at the end.” Only one of the two between him and Arjuna would survive. Karna promised that he would spare the other children of Kunti.

One wonders, like so many other “if”s in Mahabharata, if Karna had not given away his armour, with which he was supposed to have been born, to Indra! If he had not used up the unfailing weapon, “Sakthi”, against Ghatotkacha! If he had not received the two fatal curses, first from Parasurama that he would forget the secret of his special weapons and then, from a Brahmin that the wheel of his chariot would be stuck in the mud at the crucial time!

The fight

The final battle took place between the two in the afternoon of the 17^th day of war. Each knew that it was fight to the end, either of the enemy or of the self.

At first, the two exchanged ordinary arrows in quick succession. Both got hurt and started bleeding profusely. At one point the onlookers could see nothing but a cloud of arrows engulfing the two chariots carrying the combating warriors.

Then, both Karna and Arjuna started using special weapons. Arjuna dispatched the arrow of fire (Aagneyaastra) which raged against the enemy engulfing even the chariot of Karna in flames. The son of Adhiratha immediately used the arrow of ocean (Vaarunaastra) to put out the fire. The arrow of Karna caused such a torrent of rain that Arjuna had to invoke the arrow of wind (Vaayavyaastra) to blow away the rain clouds. Both used even the weapon of Brahma (Brahmaastra), the effect of one nullified by the other. Thus, the battle raged between the two, each trying to outwit the other with his stock of special weapons.

Veda Vyasa spares no words to describe the intensity of the battle between the two equals. The fight is compared to that of Indra against the ferocious demon, Vritra. Again, he says that the two fought like two elephants in rut taking on each other.

The fighting came to a full stop everywhere else and all gathered around the two heroes. The Kauravas often shouted. “There is no hope for Arjuna this time”. The supporters of the Pandavas called out, again and again, “This is the end of Karna”. Karna’s arrows destroyed thousands on the Pandava side. Similarly large numbers of the Kauravas perished under Arjuna’s attack.

Krishna wondered after a while why Arjuna was failing to put an end to his enemy. He tried to invoke Arjuna’s anger reminding him of the Karna’s heinous acts against the Pandavas.

Karna’s chariot stuck

Suddenly Karna found one of his chariot wheels stuck in the mud. He sensed danger, thinking about the curse he received from the Brahmin. He asked Arjuna. “Arjuna, you are highly reputed as one who sticks to principles (Dharma). You know that you should not send weapons against an enemy who, has dishevelled hair, has turned his back, is a Brahmin, is with folded hands, is asking for protection, has put down his weapons, is begging (for mercy), has exhausted his weapons, is without his armour or is unarmed or has his weapons damaged.

(PrakeerNakeSe vimukhe braahmaNe-tha kritaanjalow

SaraNaagate nyasta Sastre yaacamaane tathaarjuna

abaaNe bhrashtakavace bhrashta bhagnaayudhe tatha

na vimuncanti SastraaNi Sooraah saadhu vrate sthitaah)

Give me minute. I shall pull out my wheel off the mud and give you a good fight”.

Arjuna was hesitant. His chivalry dissuaded him from attacking an opponent in distress.

But, Krishna exhorted. “Karna, fine are your words of advice on Dharma when it suits you. Where was your sense of justice when Bhima was poisoned, the house of wax was burnt down, the Pandavas were cheated in a game of dice or Draupadi was helplessly pulled to the assembly and on so many other similar situations?” Karna heard Krishna’s words and hung down his head in shame.

Krishna, then, turned to Arjuna and asked him. “Use this opportunity and put down your enemy sending your divine weapons”.

Karna noticed the confusion in Arjuna’s mind. He sent a few arrows against Arjuna and Krishna standing on the ground to gain time. Then, he stooped down trying to pull his chariot wheel that was stuck. But, however hard he tried, the wheel remained rooted in the mud.

The end of Karna

Arjuna hesitated for a moment and then took out his special weapon that he had earmarked for Karna. He remained in meditation for a brief moment, invoking the full power of his weapon. Then, he pulled his Gandiva to his ear and dispatched the weapon with full force.

Arjuna’s arrow flew like a rocket and struck on Karna’s neck with unerring accuracy. The next moment Karna’s head was severed from his body. It is said that a divine glow arose from his body and rose towards heaven at that time.

Veda Vyasa explains the end of Karna, comparing the sight to several remarkable scenes in nature. He says, “Karna’s head fell down like a big boulder uprooted by a hurricane, like the glowing sun sinking in the ocean at the end of day”, and so on. The sun was about to set on the 17^th day of war.

Krishna and Arjuna blew on their conch shells to herald victory. The Pandavs erupted into tumultuous joy. There was beating on drums and blowing of trumpets. Thousands of hands waved pieces of cloth (upper garments) in the air to express joy and relief.

The Kauravas fled looking back again and again at Arjuna’s mast as though they were being chased by the god of death.

(The 17^th day’s war to be concluded in the next episode)

The War – Day 17 (Part 8)

Krishna started driving Arjuna towards Karna at full speed. The journey was blocked by the vast army of the Kauravas lead by its veteran leaders at several stages. Arjuna was in no mood to waste much time. So, he drove through the milling army, sending showers of arrow and destroying the opposing forces in large numbers. Great was the damage done by the Pandava all along the way.

Aswatthama’s words to Duryodhana

Aswatthama had already felt dejected when his father was killed by Dhrishtadyumna. He had seen so many die on both the sides before and after that, all unnecessary according to the son of Drona. It was the gory scene of Bhima killing Dussasana that convinced Aswatthama that it was high time to put a stop to the meaningless war. He opened up his mind to Duryodhana. He did not hesitate to point out that victory was beyond hope when Arjuna guided by Krishna fought on the enemy’s side. He concluded by saying, “I can still convince the Pandavas to come to terms with you. So, please give up this futile and disastrous war now.”

But, Duryodhana was beyond any re-conciliation. He said. “Did you not see the cruel and heinous act of Bhima against my brother? Besides, he has openly declared that he is going to kill me next. No, I shall not give up at this stage. I shall, still, win the war with Karna fighting for me.”

Duryodhana, then, gave the command to his army. “Why are you holding back? Go, attack and kill the enemies”.

Meeting of the two foes

Meanwhile Karna, encouraged by Salya, has been advancing fast towards his born rival. Krishna pointed out the flag of Karna seen from a distance. He said. “Arjuna, don’t you see the flag of Karna with the mark of chain ? Now you can notice the white horses carrying the chariot of Radheya (Karna) advancing at a fast tempo towards us.”

Arjuna replied. “Krishna, do not wait for him to reach us. I am excited that my hour of reckoning has come. Please drive on so that I can meet him half way.”

Soon, the two arch rivals came face to face. A fierce fight ensued between the two. Both started sending all the divine weapons in their stock against the opponent. Each knew how to neutralize the enemy’s weapon by one of his own. It was a battle between two equals. The two fought keenly like two elephants on rut.

The soldiers on the Pandava side, like the Panchalas and Somakas, pressed Arjuna to, “hurry, kill Karna!” Similarly, the men on the Kaurava side shouted encouraging words, “Karna, kill Arjuna . Let the Pandavas go back to the forest!”

The whole world to watch the fight

It is said that the whole world, even the entire universe, came to a stop and all gathered around the two to watch their fight. The battle was so engrossing that soon the observers started taking sides. Vyasa says that the entire universe, including celestial objects, supported one or the other side. The gods, in general, supported Arjuna. The exception was the sun god who stood by his son, Karna. The demons, as a whole, came to support the son of Radha. The sky, including all the stars favoured Karna. But, the good earth stood behind Arjuna. Similarly, even the elements of nature like the wind, rivers and the good earth, too, started forming sides.

The gods started arguing on the outcome of the keenly contested battle. After watching battle for a while it is said that the gods approached Brahma and suggested. “It is difficult to make out who, between Arjuna and Karna, is going to win. It will be a pity if either of the two is killed by his enemy. Please put an end to the war so that both survive for the sake of the world”. But, both Brahma and Lord Siva replied saying that Arjuna had to win for the overall well being of the world.

Meanwhile the battle between the two grew in intensity. The two chariots came so close that even the horses of Arjuna, it appeared, took on those of Karna. The flags of the two fighting heroes got mutually entangled giving the impression that even they were in a tussle, one against the other. The two charioteers, Krishna on one side and Salya on the other, stared fiercely at each other, in a visual combat.

Karna asked Salya in the middle of the war. “If I am killed by Arjuna by chance, tell me honestly what will you do?” To that Salya replied. “I shall take revenge by killing both Krishna and Arjuna single handedly”.

Perhaps it was a coincidence that Arjuna asked he same question to Krishna. Krishna’s reply was, “it may so happen that the sun falls down from heaven and even the fire cools down, but, Karna will not succeed to kill you”.

(To be continued)

The War – Day 17 (Part 7)

Arjuna was on way to meet his enemy. He had to pass on a message to Bhima on the way. The latter was busy destroying the Kaurava forces in a pitched battle being fought all alone.

Arjuna’s very presence brought cheers in the Pandava army, more so to his elder brother, Bhima. The two greeted heartily in the middle of the battle field. Arjuna informed Bhima that Yudhishthira was safe and was taking rest in the tent. There was no need for concern on his account. This news gladdened the heart of Bhima. The younger Pandava, then, proceeded with his journey for the historic encounter with Karna.

Bhima against Dussasana

Bhima had already inflicted great damage on the attacking Kaurava forces. It was then that he found Dussasana coming against him. The sight of his arch rival raised Bhima’s fury to new heights. He remembered all the heinous acts the Kauravas had committed against him and his brothers. Dussasana was the main perpetrator of all those crimes. The insult on his dear wife, Draupadi, in the open assembly of the Kauravas came vividly to his mind at that time. It was the same Dussasana who had dragged Draupadi there pulling her all the way by hair. The climax to the insult was when he tried to disrobe Draupadi in front of all who had gathered in the hall. Bhima had sworn openly that day that he would tie her hair with his hands soaked in the blood of the Kaurava who had tormented her.

Bhima decided that the time had come for revenge. He fought with all the hatred that was burning in his heart.

But, Dussasana was not an enemy to be put down that easily. The two fought a pitched battle. Bhima faced some initial reverses from the well marked arrows launched from the Kaurava’s bow pulled to the ear. He soon recovered from the initial shock. Then, he decided to take the drastic step. Bhima jumped down from his chariot and rushed to Dussasana holding his formidable mace in hand. Before Dussasana had any chance of escape he swung the mace against his enemy’s head. The impact was so heavy that the Kaurava fell down in his chariot.

The death of Dussasana

Bhima wasted no time. He pulled his enemy down from the chariot without giving him any chance to recover. His fury had reached such a height that he lost all sense of normal human behaviour. His first savage act was to tear off the two arms of his enemy. He, then, tore the chest of Dussasana who was still struggling for life with his bare hands. Bhima, then, drank the warm blood that oozed out of his enemy’s heart and roared like an animal with its prey. His final act was to chop the head of his enemy with his sword. Bhima then, soaked in the blood of his enemy, announced loudly that he had redeemed his pledge.

People all around watched in disbelief and shook with terror at the savage sight. Soldiers fighting on the Kaurava side started to flee in panic, thinking that it was a demon had attacked the Kaurava prince. Even Karna, who happened to watch the scene from a distance, was horror stricken.

It is not clear whether Bhima, indeed, tied the hair of Draupadi with his hands stained with the blood of the evil Dussasana. As far as Bhima was concerned he had kept his word. The task remained with him was to kill the remaining sons of Dhritarashtra, including Duryodhana. We shall learn about it only much later.

Meanwhile, Arjuna was proceeding to meet his main foe, Karna. We shall learn about their encounter in the next episode.

The War – Day 17 (Part 6)

The war had made tempers fly high. It brought out the worst of both Yudhishthira and Arjuna. Krishna managed to calm down his friend through his wise counsel.

Yudhishthira in distress

Arjuna realized how wrong he was in turning against his brother whom he held in high esteem. He went to Yudhishthira and touched his feet, apologizing profusely for his rudeness.

Meanwhile, the elder Pandava was totally dejected seeing how his words had affected his dear brother. He proclaimed that he was retiring to the forest. He would not stand a similar situation, if it happened again between him and his brothers. It took a lot of effort on the part of Krishna to pacify him.

Finally, Krishna managed to patch up the relation between the two brothers who had turned against one another. Yudhishthira, finally, embraced Arjuna with tears and blessed him for victory against the enemy. Arjuna took leave promising that he would kill Karna without delay in battle. With those words he took leave of his brother.

Arjuna’s journey to meet the enemy

Krishna knew that Arjuna was on the most important mission in the war, against his arch rival, Karna. He decided to mentally prepare his friend for the crucial battle and started to recount his glorious victories in the past. Arjuna had faced so many great Kaurava warriors alone in battle and defeated them all at the end. In conclusion Krishna asked Arjuna. “Was it not with your help that Sikhandi killed Bhishma and Dhrishtadyumna put an end to Drona?”

Krishna, then, went into all the evil deeds of Karna to work up on Arjuna’s emotion. He concluded reminding Arjuna of the most insulting words of Karna. “Arjuna, did not Karna ask your dear wife, Draupadi, to choose one among the Kauravas as husband as the five of you had already become their slaves?”

Krishna’s words had the desired effect on his friend. Arjuna swore again that he would kill Karna without any further delay and requested Krishna to drive the chariot where he could meet his enemy.

Battles in progress

Meanwhile, several duels were being fought on the battle ground. The most notable one was between the Panchala prince, Uttamowjas and Vrishasena, the son of Karna. Both fought fiercely at the end of which the Panchala killed his enemy. Karna was watching the duel from a distance where he was fighting his own battle. The death of his dear son greatly enraged Karna and he unleashed such an attack that the Pandavas found it difficult to withstand.

Bhima worried

Bhima was bearing the main brunt of the Kaurava attack. After a prolonged battle he asked his charioteer. “Visoka, I have not seen Arjuna anywhere on the field for a long time. I have been fighting almost a lone battle. The enemies appear to be in great strength even now. Tell me how many arrows of each type are left in all my quivers together.”

Visoka took a count of the weapons in stock in the chariot by category and reported that to Bhima. He, then, said. “If you listen carefully, you can hear the twang emerging from Gandiva. It seems, Arjuna, lead by Krishna, is appearing on the scene.”

The news of Arjuna joining force with him was highly encouraging to Bhima. He fought even harder against his opponents with renewed vigour .

Duryodhana noticed the damage Bhima was doing to his force. He requested his uncle, Sakuni, to take on the Pandava before he did further damage.

Bhima fought against Sakuni with a vengeance. In spite of some early reverses, he defeated his foe at the end of a fierce battle. The king of Gandhara fled from the field with his life.

The Kaurava forces were completely unnerved by the defeat of their leader and took refuge under Karna who was fighting elsewhere.

(To be continued. Please refer to www.kunjunny.blogspot.com for an interesting anecdote.)

The War – Day 17 (Part 5)

In search of Yudhishthira

It was the afternoon on the 17th day. Arjuna had succeeded in pushing Aswatthama off the field when the latter had posed a threat to all other Pandava warriors. He then spoke to Krishna.

“I do not find my brother, Yudhishthira, anywhere in the battle ground. I am worried on his account. Let us look for him”.

Accordingly, Krishna drove the chariot through the army. Seated on the chariot Krishna showed the horrors of war to his friend. Bodies of men lay all around. Many were dead and others had been incapacitated to move. A variety of weapons could be seen all through the battle ground, either held in the hands of the fallen men or knocked down on the field. Many hands could be seen, chopped off from the body, with the weapons, still held in them.

The bodies were in many cases pierced by sharp arrows. Others had been shattered by the blow from heavy maces. There were bodies with the heads chopped off by sword. Others had been crushed under the feet of elephants in their plight or knocked down by panicked horses. Many of those who were not yet dead were crying out for water.

Streams of blood could be seen flowing in all directions.

The war of Karna

Seated on the chariot of Arjuna, Krishna pointed out the battles fought by Karna to his friend. He had been inflicting heavy casualties on the Pandava side. Krishna urged Arjuna not to delay meeting Karna in a decisive battle and killing him at the end.

Krishna said. “You can hear Karna persuading other Kauravas to go after Yudhishthira. Why is that roar from among their midst? Is it possible that your brother has been killed or captured alive? Look, how Karna is destroying all your men, intent on demonstrating his skills to his friend, Duryodhana. He is sending glances in your direction in between, as though challenging you for a direct combat”

With these words and showing the battle scenes, Krishna proceeded with Arjuna towards the Pandava camp. They met Bhima on the way. He reported to them that his elder brother had left the battle field thoroughly beaten by Karna in combat.

Yudhishthira in bed

When Krishna and Arjuna reached the camp Yudhishthira was in bed recovering from wounds. He welcomed them beaming with happiness, thinking that Arjuna had come to report the killing of Karna. He said. “Tell me, Arjuna in detail, how you killed Karna in battle”.

Arjuna was embarrassed when he realized how mistaken his brother was. He answered timidly. “I have not managed to meet Karna long enough to fulfill my promise. I was busy with the Samsaptakas. Then, I came here to make sure that you are safe. I shall leave now and challenge Karna for a duel. I shall definitely kill him at the end”.

But, Yudhishthira was crestfallen when he realized that what he hoped desperately had not happened. Then, much unlike him, he started speaking harsh words to Arjuna. “You must have seen that our army has been thoroughly thrashed by the enemy. Bhima has been taking the brunt of the battle all alone. You left him behind out of sheer cowardice. Vain are the words that praised your superior skills in warfare. Our hopes in you have been proven wrong. You better hand your Gandiva over to someone else”.

Arjuna in a fury

The words of his brother enraged Arjuna in no small measure. He jumped forward with sword in hand towards his brother.

Krishna blocked him and said. “Why, what is the matter? I do not find an enemy for you to kill anywhere here!”

Arjuna hissed like a serpent and roared. “You know of my pledge that I would kill anyone who spoke belittling my handling of Gandiva”.

Krishna tried to pacify his friend. He said. “Arjuna, you are not aware of the ways of Dharma (right and wrong). That is why you are confused. You must understand first that hurting any living being (Himsa) with no good reason is a worse offence than telling a lie. You may have to tell a lie to save a difficult situation, such as marriages, in matters of sex, when life is in danger, when there is the risk of losing all that one possesses and for the sake of a Brahmin.

(Vivahakale, ratisamprayoge, pranaatyaye, sarva dhanaapahaare,

viprasya ca arthe hyanrutam vadeta panchaanrutaanyaahu rapaatakani).

Lies told on these five occasions are said to be not sinful”.

Krishna implied that killing Yudhishthira to keep his word would be a worse sin on the part of Arjuna. He, then, told the story of a naïve Brahmin who always told the truth unmindful of the consequences.

The story of the truthful Brahmin

A Brahmin used to do penance in a forest. One day some people came there trying to escape from enemies who were in their chase. Soon, others came in their hot pursuit. The new comers asked the Brahmin. “Did you, sir, find some people coming this way?” Being a man of truth he told them that they, indeed, did. As a result, those who took refuge in the forest were found out and mercilessly butchered.

Krishna, through this story, tried to impress on Arjuna that Ahimsa (non-violence) is a superior virtue in comparison to truthfulness. Even if Arjuna failed to keep his own words, he was saving himself from a much worse sin, of killing his own brother.

(To be continued)

The War – Day 17 (Part 4)

The Suicide Squad of Susharma

Arjuna’s main target was Karna. Before he could proceed in search of his foe, the suicide army (Samsaptaka) of Susharma renewed its attack against the Pandava. The king was leading it from the front. The Samsaptakas encircled the chariot of Arjuna with loud battle cries. They were so many and were unconcerned of their own lives. Some held the horses and others put a brake to the chariot wheels with their bare hands. The chariot of Arjuna came to a full stop. Meanwhile, several of the arrows from Susharma found their target on Arjuna and Krishna.

Arjuna spoke to Krishna. “Look, Krishna, what the Samsaptakas have done. We are virtually under arrest. I have to do something drastic to save the situation”. With those words Arjuna blew on his conch shell, Devadatta. Krishna blew on his Panchajanya, in response. The sound of the two created confusion and fear in the minds of the Samsaptakas. Arjuna , then, sent an arrow powered with serpents (Naga Astra) against his tormentors. The effect of the arrow was dramatic on the Samsaptakas. Hundreds of serpents emerged from the arrow and tied up the feet of Susharma’s soldiers leaving them immobile. Arjuna, then, started to kill them in large numbers, sending sharp arrows from his Gandiva in quick succession.

Susharma quickly realized the danger and released an arrow empowered with the eagle (Garuda Astra). Eagles arrived in large numbers attacking the serpents which had tied up the Samsaptakas.

A great battle ensued between Arjuna and Susharma in which several other divine weapons were exchanged.

Kripa in action

Elsewhere, the army of Duryodhana was retreating under the powerful attack of Bhima. Kripa came on the scene to save the situation. He unleashed a formidable attack against the Panchala contingent of the Pandava army. Sikhandi was angered looking at the damage done to his army by the Kaurava warrior and took on Kripa with great resolve. The two fought fiercely for a while. At the end, the horses of the Panchala prince were killed by the arrows from Kripa. He jumped out his chariot with sword in hand and ran towards his enemy.

Kripa wasted no time to cut the sword and shatter the shield of the Panchakla into pieces with his sharp arrows. Shikhandi realized that what he did was rash and panicked for a moment. At that very moment Suketu, a great warrior on the Pandava side, came on the scene to save Suikhandi. Kripa, then, turned his attention on to Suketu. Sikhandi used the opportunity to save himself from the clutches of death at the hands of Kripa.

The teacher of the Kauravas turned to his new enemy and sent sharp arrows one after another to him. Kripa’s arrows found the target on the chest and every other vital point of Suketu pierced. He sat down on the floor of his chariot unable to move. Another well aimed arrow from Kripa hit his neck and his head was severed in the next instant.

Aswatthama defeats Yudhishthira

Elsewhere, Aswatthama spotted Yudhishthira in the middle of the Pandava army and turned to him for a face to face combat. Several veterans on the Pandava side, like Satyaki, came in support of Yudhishthira. The Pandavas were totally defeated at the end of a spirited battle. Yudhishthira escaped from the scene to save his own life.

Aswatthama against Arjuna

Great was the damage done to the Pandava army by the son of Drona. None among the Pandavas could face Aswatthama that day. But, Arjuna came on the scene after having pushed back the attack of the Samsaptakas. It looked that even Arjuna was not effective against Aswatthama. Krishna watched his friend for a while and said. “I am surprised, Arjuna, that you are powerless against your enemy. Are you not holding Gandiva in your hand? Or, are you being soft on your opponent thinking that he is your teacher’s son?”

Krishna’s taunting words had the desired effect on the Pandava. He sent a torrent of arrows pulling the string of his Gandiva as far as his ears. Arjuna’s arrows found the target and Aswatthama was, soon, in trouble. At one point he sat down on the floor of his chariot losing his consciousness. At that point the charioteer of Aswatthama deftly drove the chariot off from the battle field.

Aswatthama’s pledge

Duryodhana was not happy that the battle was not turning the way he thought it would under the command of Karna. He called his warriors around him and spoke. “It has to be a fight until victory for us all today. If we die in the process, take heart that the doors of heaven remain open for us”

Aswtthama was already in despair that the one who killed his father unjustly was still at large. So, he took a terrible pledge right in front of all those who had gathered. “Note my words; I shall not remove my armour until I take revenge on Dhrishtadyumna who killed my father when he was unarmed”.

With those words he turned towards the Pandava army in search of his sworn enemy.

(To be continued)

The War – Day 17 (Part 3)

Let us recall that Karna was in command of the Kaurava army from the 16th day of war. Not much happened that day, though. Karna thought that what he lacked was a good charioteer. Salya was his choice for that role. The Madra king accepted the task on one condition. He should be free to criticize Karna whenever he bragged about his own greatness.

There was a promise that Salya had given to the Pandavas that is worth remembering in this context. Nakula and Sahadeva were his nephews. The king had come with one Akshauhini (battalion) of army to fight the war on the side of the Pandavas. Duryodhana cleverly managed to get him to his side. When the Pandavas heard about that, they asked for one favour from Salya. Karna was the biggest challenge to Arjuna and he was known to be moody. Praises boosted the ego of the son of the charioteer and then he was capable of accomplishing great tasks. On the contrary, criticism put down his morale. Hence, Salya was made to promise that he would try and put down Karna whenever he got an opportunity. It is difficult to know whether the Madra king remembered his words to his nephews in stipulating the condition for accepting his new role as Karna’s charioteer.

With Salya on the charioteers’ seat Karna was all set to settle score with Arjuna on the 17th day. Both the sides built their formations with utmost care. Karna stood at the front of the Kaurava army which then marched against the Pandavas with the blowing of trumpets and bugles and with the noise raised by soldiers on the march.

Yudhishthira pointed out Karna to Arjuna. “Look at the battle formation of the Kauravas as built by Karna. He is leading the army from the front. Make sure that we resist their attack effectively. You must personally take care of the challenge of Karna”.
Arjuna agreed to do his best against his enemy.

“Here comes Arjuna”

Salya noticed from a distance the chariot of Arjuna bearing the mark of Hanuman on his mast. He called out to Karna seated behind him in the chariot. “There comes Arjuna whom you have been so eagerly waiting to meet. You can see for yourself the trail of destruction he is leaving behind all along the path he has travelled. But, I warn you of one thing. The omens that appear in the sky and all around us are not in our favour. Take on him as best as you can, keeping this in mind”.

But, the chariot of Arjuna disappeared in the next instant in the midst of the suicide squad of the Trigarthas. Karna said to Salya looking at that. “The Trigarthas would finish him even before I get my chance”.

Karna torments Yudhishthira

Karna, then, asked Salya to turn the chariot against the other Pandavas. Great was the damage he caused in the enemy ranks that day. Several of the Pandava heroes came against Karna and had to turn back in distress. Yudhishthira was greatly angered looking at the loss of men on his side and challenged Karna for combat. The two fought fiercely exchanging several divine weapons against one another. But, soon, Yudhishthira was in trouble. Karna’s powerful arrows started tormenting the Pandava after piercing through his armour. Soon, he found his chariot broken to pieces by the arrows of Karna. Yudhishthira jumped down in time and started running away to save his own life.

But, Karna did not want to let out his prey that easily. He followed Yudhishthira on foot and placed his hand on the shoulder of the Panadava. He said. “You are born as a Kshatrya. It is not worthy of you to turn your back in combat. Or, may be you are only fit to perform sacrificial rituals as a Brahmin. In that case I let you go”. Karna’s insulting words pierced through the heart of the Pandava prince. He walked away hanging his dead down in shame. The big battalion of forces of the Pandavas that surrounded him also retreated when they found their commander exiting from the battle field. Karna followed the Pandava army from behind and continued to thrash it with his powerful arrows.

Bhima against Karna.

But, the Pandavas staged a come back lead by Bhima. Seeing that, Karna asked Salya to turn his chariot towards the Pandava. Bhima’s anger flared up seeing Karna face to face.

Salya noticed the mood of Bhima and spoke to Karna. “Look at Bhima. I have seen him in this ferocious mood only twice before – after the death of Abhimanyu and of his own son, Ghatotkacha. It will be an uphill task for you to face the Pandava when he is so angry”. Karna agreed that Salya had a point there. Yet, he wanted to face Bhima at any cost. His hope was that he might get Arjuna on the scene if he managed to put Bhima in any sort of trouble.

With this resolve Karna fought a pitched battle against Bhima. The Pandava was wounded by Karna’s well marked arrows. That only flared up Bhima’s anger even further. He came all out against Karna and sent arrows from his bow that was pulled as far as his ears. Bhima’s arrows found the target on Karna’s chest piercing through his armour. Salya noticed that his protégé even lost his consciousness as a result and quickly drove the chariot away from the scene. The huge army of the Kauravas also took to flight behind the chariot of the commander.

Bhima against the sons of Dhritarashtra

Duryodhana noticed the plight of his army and sent six of his brothers against Bhima. The sons of Dhritarashtra encircled the Pandava and started sending showers of arrow against the enemy. That was the opportunity Bhima was so eagerly awaiting. He fought against them with a vengeance. Soon, his arrows cut the head of each of them down.

(To be continued)

The War – Day 17 (Part 2)

Karna and Salya


As soon as Karna set out in the chariot driven by Salya, he started boasting bout himself. He was in high spirits. So he offered liberal gifts for any one who would locate Krishna and Arjuna for him. His words were, “who will show me the chariot of Arjuna carried by the white horses and driven by Krishna? I shall pay him all the riches that he asks for”, and so on. The moment he could set sight on Arjuna he would put an end to the Pandava with one of his arrows. That was what Karna implied through his loud proclamation.

That was too much for Salya. He said. “You do not have to pay any fees to anyone for showing Arjuna to you. You shall see him yourself, soon. But, that meeting shall become fatal for you”.
Karna did not like the comment from the Madra king. He boasted of his own prowess. But, Salya asked him what Karna did on the several occasions in the past when Arjuna defeated the Kauvas single handed.

Karna was greatly angered by the belittling words of Salya. He started to insult his tormentor by saying that the people of the Madra land were of loose moral character and not trustworthy. Karna quoted several others who, it seemed, gave instances to prove the point. He, then, threatened his charioteer with dire consequences, if he spoke another word questioning his ability.

Salya kept his cool even after listening to Karna’s angry words. But, he said that good and bad people could be found everywhere. It was not fair to tarnish the image of one whole country quoting a few examples.

Then, he narrated the story of the crow which boasted to a swan of its skill in flying

The crow and the swan

It was the work of some mischief mongers who boosted up the false ego of the crow by saying that it was the greatest among birds. The praise took to the head of the naive crow.

When it spotted a fleet of swans in the near by lake the crow challenged them for a trial of skill in flying. The crow claimed that it could fly in a hundred and one different ways. The swans kept quiet to the tall claim. But, one of them accepted the challenge. It said that it knew how to fly, nothing more. But it was willing to compete with the crow.

Then, the two started the trial. The crow showed off its skill by flying with its back up first and then sideways and even tried to roll over while in the air. The swan simply flew ahead. It went in the direction of the western ocean and the crow followed right behind. The swan kept a steady flight over the vast ocean and the crow tried its best to keep apace. But, there was no land to be spotted even in the farthest horizon nor was there any tree for the crow to rest for a while. Soon, the crow started feeling the weight of its own wings. How far ahead? The crow asked. The swan kept quiet and continued on its track.

Soon, the crow realized that it could not move any further. Its feet touched the surface of the ocean unable to hold itself up any longer. It cried out to the swan for help. The swan ignored its companion for a while. When it was clear that the crow was about o sink beneath the deep ocean the swan quietly pulled it up by its feet and deposited it at on the island that came further ahead. It, then, quietly flew off giving the lesson to the crow not to make vain claims.

Salya concluded the story telling Karna not to boast without knowing the strength of his enemy.
But, Karna was not that easily to be put down. He said that he was aware of the strength of his enemy, but, nonetheless was in a position to win over him by his superior combating skills.
He, then, narrated the two curses that are on him that bog him down to some extent. Yet, he was willing to meet the enemy in spite of them.

Curses on Karna

Karna had approached the great Parasurama for lessons in archery. The son of Bhrigu was known for his stern stand against the Kshatriyas (warriors and royals). He had gone about killing them several times over in revenge for the death of his father at their hands. So, Karna went disguised as a Brahmin. Parasurama accepted him as disciple and taught him all that he knew in archery.

One day the teacher was having his nap in the noon resting his head on the lap of the disciple. It is said that Lord Indra, who had the interest of Arjuna at heart, wanted to expose the disguise of Karna. He came in the form of an insect and started piercing the thigh of Karna. Blood started oozing out. Karna did not want to disturb the quiet sleep of his teacher and bore the pain with courage.

But, Parasurama was woken up by the feel of blood on his head and noticed what was happening. How did his disciple bear so much pain silently? He asked Karna. “Who are you in reality? It is unlikely that a Brahmin would stand so much pain quietly. Tell me the truth”. Karna could not, but, expose his true identity to the teacher. Parasurama was angry because of the deceit and said. “What you have learnt in the pretext of a Brahmin shall escape you at the crucial moment”.

Besides, Karna had inadvertently killed the cow of a Brahmin. The animal was dear to the Brahmin serving his daily need for milk used in the sacrificial rites. Greatly angered, the Brahmin cursed Karna that the wheels of his chariot would sink in mud in the crucial war he would fight. Karna tried to pacify the Brahmin by offering suitable gifts. But, the Brahmin was unmoved.Karna concluded saying that he was somewhat worried of these two curses on him, but, was not afraid to face any enemy, be it Arjuna or Indra, himself.

With these words he asked Salya to drive on to where he could meet Arjuna.

We shall learn more about the war on the 17th day in the next episode.

The War – Day 17 (Part 1)

A charioteer for Karna

“Give me a good charioteer”, Karna asked Duryodhana. The war on the 16th day, the first day under his command, had just ended. The Kauravas did not fare any better even that day compared to the earlier days. Karna thought that the time had come for him show his real mettle to all, especially to Duryodhana. He continued. “Mark my words. I shall not return today without killing Arjuna. I am better than he is in almost every aspect of archery. I excel the Pandava in the ease of sending arrows, their accuracy and power. My own bow, “Vijayam”, which was made by the architect of the gods, is superior to Arjuna’s Gandiva. But, I have none to drive my chariot with skills to match that of Krishna. If I get a good charioteer, then I shall easily defeat and kill all the Pandavas, including Arjuna. He has been avoiding me all these days for fear of my powerful javelin given by Indra (Sakthi). Now that I have used it up against Ghatotkacha, Arjuna is going to come face to face to fight against me.”

Duryodhana was willing to offer anyone and anything to Karna. Who his good friend would like to drive his chariot?

Karna pointed out to Salya who was standing near by.

Salya feels insulted

Duryodhana spoke polite and appeasing words to the Madra king. “Sir, you are an expert on the science of horses (Aswa Hridaya) among us as Krishna is on the Pandava side. Kindly accept the role of charioteer as requested by Karna”.

Salya had heard Karna when he asked for the favour. He was fuming with righteous anger from that time. When the Kaurava prince asked him directly he burst out. “Who does the son of charioteer think I am to drive his chariot? I, myself, am a much superior warrior than he is in all spheres of warfare”.

It took a lot effort on the part of Duryodhana to pacify the hurt feelings of Salya. He offered liberal praises on the superior skills of the Madra king. Then, the Kaurava narrated the story of the Tripuras to illustrate the point that great people had accepted the role of charioteer in the past in times of crisis.

The killing of the Tripuras

That was the time when the gods fought pitched battles against the demons and were destroying thousands of them. There were three sons to the famous demon, Taraka, bearing names, Kamalaksha,Tarakaksha and Vidyunmali.

The three brothers did years of hard penance and pleased Brahma, the creator. The latter appeared before them and offered any boon of their choice. The demons asked for immortality. But, Brahma would offer anything except that to them.

Then, they thought of a clever condition. They asked for three cities for them to live in. Each would live in one of the three cities for one thousand years. The cities should move around freely at their will during that time. Then, the three cities could come together for a second and split apart as before for another thousand years. If they were to be killed, the enemy should use that opportunity when they came together and kill all the three of them with one single arrow. Brahma agreed and blessed them accordingly.

It was said that Maya, the architect of demons built the three cities in the three worlds for them in which they started living happily. Then, they went about their main business of killing gods indiscriminately living in their flying cities.

The gods were in a fix. The three demons had put almost an impossible condition for killing them. They approached Brahma for help. The creator of worlds was helpless against those whom he, himself, had empowered with an almost flawless boon. He went to Siva accompanied by all other gods. The destroyer of the three worlds assessed the situation and agreed. But, he wanted Brahma to be his charioteer. Brahma accepted the role and it is said that the two accomplished the task of killing the formidable demons at the end of the next thousand years when they came together.

Salya accepts the role

Even before Duryodhana completed his story Salya had already cooled down considerably hearing the shower of praise from the Kaurava. The story of Brahma volunteering to drive the chariot of Siva, who was his son, made the Madra king feel even better. He accepted the role of Karna’s charioteer, but, on certain conditions. He would speak frankly to Karna keeping his welfare in mind. Karna should not mind that.

There was one more condition. Salya turned to Karna and spoke. “Don’t boast about your accomplishments or insult others on their failures. If you speak that way, I shall not spare any words to put you on the right track immediately”. Karna accepted the conditions.

Thus, the 17th day’s war started, with Salya driving the chariot of Karna. We shall learn about the developments on the 17th day from the subsequent episodes.

The War - Day 16

The Book of Karna

We start on the “Book of Karna (Karna Parvam)” here which has only one chapter, “the killing of Karna (Karna Vadha Parvam)”. Two day’s of battle are covered in the chapter.

At the end of each day’s battle Sanjaya used to report the events of the day to Dhritarshtra.
The narration of the next morning always would start with a dialogue between the two. This time it runs into several sections. The old king was disconsolate hearing about the killing of Karna (at the end of day 17). He laments about the death of all the veterans like Bhishma and Drona and asks Sanjaya to list all those who had been killed and those who survived on both the sides. Several sections of the chapter cover the list of those who died and those who survived so far.

Karna as the commander in chief

The death of Drona left a vacuum at the top of the Kaurava army. Great were the losses on their side already. What should be the next course of action? Duryodhana got his veterans together and posed the question to them.

Aswatthama spoke on behalf of the others. He said. “Victory and defeat are all part of war. True, that we have had several reverses. But, if we fight on with determination, we can still win this war. I suggest that Karna should lead our army henceforth”.

Duryodhana was greatly pleased with the suggestion. He always felt that both Bhishma and Drona favoured the Pandavas. But, he trusted Karna for his unwavering loyalty towards him. He, accordingly, requested Karna to take up the challenge which was readily accepted. Thus, the son of Radha was anointed as the great commander in chief of the vast Kaurava army. Under his command the Kaurava army marched forward on the sixteenth morning against the Pandavas.

The battles on day 16

The sixteenth day was relatively uneventful, though. True, there were quite a few battles between the veterans of either side. Among these, the ones by Karna and Aswatthama shined on the Kaurava side. The battles of Arjuna, Bhima and Satyaki are worth mentioning on the Pandava side.

Bhima killed a king by name Kshemadhoorthi of Kulootha kingdom after a fierce battle.
Satyaki killed two princes of Kekaya by name Vinda and Anuvinda.

There was a prolonged battle between Aswatthama and Bhima at the end of which both fell down unconscious. The son of Drona returned later and challenged Arjuna for a duel. The two dispatched several divine weapons against one another. Aswatthama had to escape from the scene totally defeated by the Pandava. Arjuna later took on the remaining suicide commandoes and killed most of them at the end.

Sahadeva fought against Dussasana and defeated his foe.

Karna against Nakula

There was a pitched battle between Karna and Nakula. The Pandava was totally defeated and was trying to escape from the scene. Karna caught hold of him with his bow and humiliated him saying, “henceforth, fight only against your equals. Let this be a lesson for you”. May be, Karna remembered the word he had given to Kunti that he would spare all her sons, except Arjuna.

Yudhishthira against Duryodhana

Towards the end of the sixteenth day Yudhishthira encountered Duryodhana in a fierce battle. Thousands of soldiers and animals perished in the battle. Duryodhana was thoroughly defeated by his foe at the end. Yudhishthira was about to kill his enemy at which time Bhima intervened. He said. “Do you not remember my vow to kill all the sons of Dhritarshtra myself? Please spare his life for me”.

Soon, the sun turned red in the western sky. The veterans on both the sides remembered the horrors of the battle on the fourteenth night and decided to pull their forces from the battle field.
That was how the battle ended on the sixteenth day, the first day under Karna’s command.

The War – Day 15 (Part 4)

Aswatthama repeated his oath once again to Duryodhana saying, “I shall annihilate the entire Pandava forces, unless they all put down their arms”. With those words he marched towards the Pandava army. The Kauravas followed him with high hopes of revenge.

Aswatthama did not wait long to take out his all powerful weapon, the arrow called Naaraayanaastra. His aim was revenge by killing all the Pandavas as soon as possible. When the son of Drona lauched the weapon, thousands of fireballs emerged from his arrow aimed towards the Pandava army. Those who tried to fight were immediately knocked down by the power of the weapon. The more they perished on the Pandava side the more powerful the weapon appeared in its path towards them.

Yudhishthira was thunder struck by looking at the power of destruction of the arrow and thought that it was the end of game for them. He called out to his allies. “O!Dhrishtadyumna, Satyaki! You better return with your people to your own land. I am going to perish with my people in no time as we are powerless against this divine weapon of Aswatthama”.

Krishna as the savior

Krishna knew the secret of the weapon. After all, it was the weapon of Narayana whose incarnation Krishna was. He called out. “All of you must immediately put down your arms. Those who are in chariots, or mounted on elephants or on horseback must get down and lie flat on the ground. That is the only way you can escape the impact of the weapon”. Yudhishthira, Arjuna and other Pandavas immediately did as Krishna asked them to do.

Bhima resists

But, Bhima was adamant. “I am not afraid of any one or any weapon, however powerful they may be. Let it be the arrow of Naaraayana or of Brahma. Let the son of Drona face me. I shall destroy him with my mace. It is mere cowardice to put down your own weapons while facing an enemy”.

Krishna knew that force rather than words was required to save Bhima. He and Arjuna rushed to Bhima and pulled him down using all their power. Bhima resented this intrusion into his right to fight and resisted with all his might. He was, with great effort, somehow brought down from his chariot and disarmed.

The spent force of Naaraayanaastra

Meanwhile, the arrow from Aswatthama raged through the Pandava army and destroyed all those who were armed or mounted. Then, it returned to the son of Drona with its power already spent.

Duryodhana was disappointed that his arch enemies escaped the wrath of the Naaraayanaastra. He asked Aswatthama why he could not kill Bhima and Arjuna. The son of Drona replied. “It is the nature of the weapon that it destroys only those who show some resistance. The Pandavas were warned in time and saved by Krishna”. But, Duryodhana was not satisfied. He asked, “then, why don’t you send it again and kill the Pandavas before they have time to disarm themselves?”

Aswatthama replied. “No, if I try to send it a second, it will destroy me”.

Duryodhana was not pleased, but, he requested Aswatthama to use his other divine weapons in his fight against the Pandavas. The son of Drona agreed to that.

Then, breathtaking duels took place between him on one side and one of the Pandava heroes like Bhima, Satyaki and Dhrishtadyumna on the other. The Pandavas faced the son of Drona bravely, but, suffered greatly as a result.

Then, Arjuna came on the scene. Several divine weapons were dispatched by Aswatthama against Arjuna. The Pandava had one of his own to counter the effect of each dispatched by the son of Drona.

The return of the son of Drona

FinallyAswatthama gave up. He was dejected that none of his arrows had the desired impact on his enemy. He put down his bow and arrows, jumped down from his chariot and was about to leave the battle field.

It is said that Veda Vyasa appeared on the scene at that very instant. The son of Drona prostrated in front of the sage and spoke out his disappointment. He said. “Revered sage, why is that my divine weapons which would have destroyed any other enemy failed against Arjuna?”

Veda Vyasa, then, explained the divine origin of Krishna and Arjuna and convinced him that it was futile to fight against the pair.

The war on the 15th day thus ended after Aswatthama left the battle field in total frustration, unable to achieve his objective of destroying the Pandavas. With this end both the chapter on the “launch of Naaraayanaastra (Naraayanaastra Moksha Parvam)” and the “Book of Drona (Drona Parvam)”.

The War – Day 15 (Part 3)

The Acharya has been killed. What was thought to be impossible had happened. The impact it has had on the Kauravas was no less than what the fall of the grandsire had made. The panic it created in the Kaurava army was unprecedented.

Aswatthama was highly surprised to find the Kaurava army running helter skelter as if a great calamity had happened. He asked Duryodhana for the reason. The Kaurava prince was too overwhelmed with the turn of events to talk to the son of the Acharya. Kripa who was standing nearby explained the sequence of events. It was from the words of his own uncle that Aswatthama learnt about the tragedy that resulted in the death of his father.

The oath by Aswatthama

The son of Drona was overcome with grief and fury. He declared to the Kaurava warriors around. “None among the Pandavas would have managed to kill my father in straight combat. The unscrupulous scoundrels took resort to lying and cheating to perform this heinous crime. How can I tolerate that my father was held by his hair and his head was chopped off while I am alive! What use are all the divine weapons in my possession except to avenge the death of my dear father? Take my word that I shall use even the unique arrow of Vishnu (Narayanaastra), which the Lord himself had bestowed on my father, to annihilate the Pandavas with all their supporters”. With those words Aswatthama marched towards the Pandava army with a resolve for immediate revenge. That encouraged the Kaurava soldiers to gather around him in small groups until the entire army came together launching a fresh attack against the Pandavas.

The return of the Kauravas

Yudhishthira was surprised to find the return of the Kaurava forces. From the way they had panicked and run for their lives it was difficult to believe that they would stage a come back that easily. He asked Arjuna who was standing nearby for the possible reason.

But Arjuna was still sulking from the pain of his teacher’s death. He burst out at his brother which was unusual for the usually composed Pandava. He said. “You must be ashamed of yourself for telling the lie simply out of greed for winning the war and regaining your kingdom. It is better that you give up your life for getting the Acharya killed after he had put down his weapons”.

Yudhishthira heard the stinging words from his brother, but, kept quiet. But, Bhima came up in support of his elder brother. He said. “You utter words of righteousness as if you are a sage living in forest. Where was your sense of justice when we were sent into exile through unfair means? Who are you to talk like this even when we had the blessing of Krishna in this?”

Dhrishtadyumna came forward and justified his action. “Drona deserved to be killed. Being a Brahmin, he did not have any business, in the first place, to take up arms. He knew that this war was unjustified on the part of the Kauravas and, yet, he joined them. He has sinned by killing so many unarmed soldiers with his special weapons like Brahmastra. I have killed my born enemy. I have every right to kill him by any means. Remember, you killed your own grandfather, that too keeping Sikhandi merely as a cover!”

Arjuna was visibly shaken by the accusation of Satyaki, though in self defense. He and other Pandavas kept quiet hearing the words of the Panchala. But, Satyaki was enraged. He shouted. “Is there no one among us to kill this sinner talking nonsense? If you speak another word, I shall break your head into pieces with this mace of mine”.

But, Dhrishtadyumna was not that easily put down. He asked Satyaki. “Who are you to talk right and wrong after killing Bhurisravas? Every one knew that he had put down his arms and was deep in meditation”.

The quarrel between Satyaki and Dhrishtadyumna heated up and developed into a scuffle. Krishna asked Bhima to intervene before the situation went out of control. It was with great effort that the Pandava managed to separate the two allies who had come to blows against one another.

Meanwhile, the Kaurava army led by Aswatthama had started inflicting heavy casualties in the Pandava army.
(Continued in the next episode)

The War – Day 15 (Part 2)

“Can it be true? Is my son really dead?” That was the thought that tormented Drona as he fought on the 15th in the morning.

It is said that some sages from heaven came down at that time and advised Drona to stop fighting. They said. “Fighting a war is not something a noble Brahmin like you should engage in. You have done a sinful act by killing so many innocent ones in the war”.

It was then that Drona found Dhrishtadyumna coming forward to fight against him. The sight of the Panchala prince who was born to end his life dampened the spirit of the Acharya even further.

The fatal lie

Krishna guessed the predicament in the mind of the Acharya. He spoke to Yudhishthira. “If the Acharya continues to fight like this even for half a day, there will be none left in our army. You will have to tell him that Aswatthama has been killed, even if it is a lie, to save your life and ours”. Bhima came along at that time and declared that he had killed an elephant by name Aswatthama.

It was then that Drona wanted confirmation of what Bhima told him from a reliable source. He called out to Yudhishthira. “Is it true that my son has been killed?”

Yudhishthira had made up his mind to tell the lie against his innate nature. He said aloud. “Yes, it is true that aswatthama has been killed”. Then, as though to reduce the impact of the sin, he spoke in a low voice, “Aswatthama, the elephant”.

It is said that the chariot of Yudhishthira always stood four inches above ground as he had a divine status because of his strict adherence to principles. When he uttered those words of untruth his chariot wheels came down and touched the earth.

When Drona heard the confirmation of the death of his son from Yudhishthira he lost all interest in war and in his own life.

Dhrishtadyumna against Drona

By the time the Panchala arrived to face Drona the Acharya had lost interest in fighting. But, Dhrishtadyumna started sending arrows in quick succession at Drona unconcerned about the mental state of the Acharya. When the sharp arrows from the Panchala started piercing his chest Drona woke up for a while and started fighting spiritedly. Then, he again lost interest and slowly sank into inaction.

Finally, the Acharya became totally dispirited and dropped his bows and arrows in the chariot. He then sat in the lotus posture in full meditation unconcerned about the raging war that was going around. It is said that slowly a glow arose from his body and went up to the sky through his head. His life had thus left his body and ascended to heaven. Only a few enlightened souls like Krishna and Arjuna could see that breathtaking scene.

The end of the Acharya

Dhrishtadyumna noticed that his enemy had dropped his bow. That was the opportunity he was waiting for. He jumped down from his own chariot and rushed to Drona with sword in hand. He jumped up into the Acharya’s chariot, caught hold of his hair and cut his head off from his already lifeless body.

It was too late for Arjuna who rushed forward shouting, “no, no, do not pay disrespect to the Acharya!” The same sentiment was expressed by all the soldiers around who all shouted in unison, “do not kill!”

Bhima alone came forward and embraced the Panchala and congratulated him for the heroic act.
With this the chapter on “the killing of Drona (Drona Vadha Parvam) comes to a close. But, the war on the 15th day and the Book of Drona continues in the next chapter, too.

The War – Day 15 (Part 1)

The 14th day’s war was a long drawn one. After several tough battles during the day the war dragged on into the night too. It was at the death of the Pandava hero, Ghatotkacha, that the fighting was called off for the day.

By then it was already late at night. Almost every one was dead tired even to make an effort to return to the base camps. They simply collapsed into deep slumber wherever and in whatever condition they were. Those on horse back or on elephants lurched forward on their animals and sank into the much needed rest and sleep. Foot soldiers fell flat on the bare soil and went to sleep instantly. The sleeping soldiers got intermingled with the thousands of dead and wounded ones in the night’s rest. The moon, then, came up in the sky and spread its silvery light highlighting the scene.

But, the calm in the battle field was temporary. Duryodhana went, again, to Drona to complain about the huge losses on his side, accusing the Acharya of partiality towards the Pandavas. Drona remonstrated with the Kaurava for the unjust accusation. But, he sprang into action stung by the insulting words of Duryodhana. The sleeping soldiers were woken up and divided into two groups, one under Drona, himself, and the other under Duryodhana. The two divisions, then, marched against the Pandavas. The eastern horizon was just about getting red in the early hours of the 15th morning at that time.

But, the soldiers hardly had any time for the much needed rest and sleep. They were up on their feet, but, were too tired to fight, even to move. The condition of the animals, horses and elephants, was no different. They stumbled on their way hitting against each other or against chariot wheels. It was the will of the commanding warriors that carried the army forward.

Drona against Drupada and Virata

Bhima was the one who alerted other Pandavas on the invading Kauravas. He and Arjuna took on Duryodhana and Karna. The Panchala king, Drupada who was the one time friend turned enemy of Drona, faced the Acharya. The Matsya king, Virata, also came to support the Panchala. Drona fought ferociously and killed the two kings at the end. Several sons of the two kings also perished in the battle.

Bhima was shaken by the incident. He called on the Panchala prince, Dhrishtadyumn and spoke. “Did you not see how the Acharya put an end to the life of your father? You had taken an oath to kill him. Now you see the result of your inaction. If the Acharya continues like this, he will finish our entire army in no time”. Then, without waiting for Dhrishtadyumna , Bhima made a thrust into Drona’s army and started dispatching sharp arrows against the Acharya.

Nakula and Sahadeva

The early morning combats witnessed Nakula and Sahadeva facing the invading Duryodhana and Dussasana. The young Pandavas fought heroically against the Kaurava brothers. At the end both Duryodhana and Dussasana had to retreat in disgrace, unable to face the Pandava arrows dispatched in quick succession.

Duryodhana against Satyaki

Duryodhana found himself facing Satyaki that morning. The Yadava was a childhood friend of the Kaurava. The marriage of Kunti to Pandu had made the Yadavas related to the Pandavas which included the Kauravas also. All the Kauravas had grown up in the company of the Yadavas like Krishna, Balarama and Satyaki. It was the enmity that developed between the Kauravas and the Pandavas that made the division between the two clans.

The two briefly exchanged memories of their childhood days in common, even though they were facing one another as enemies. Then, they got down to business and started fighting against one another with full vigour.

Arjuna against Drona

Meanwhile, Arjuna was fighting heroically against Drona. It was difficult to judge who had an upper hand in the battle between the teacher and he student. The Pandava had an answer to each of the divine weapons dispatched by Drona. The same was true of Drona also against the arrows from Arjuna’s Gandiva. It is said that even the celestial beings gathered in the sky to watch the thrilling combat between the two heroes.

A lie to disarm the enemy

Krishna was worried after a while. He exclaimed. “There is none who can defeat Drona in battle as long as he holds weapons in his hands. The battle can never be won while he is fighting. We must think of a way to stop him. It is well known that the Acharya loves his son, Aswatthama, above everything else in this world. Truly, he lives mainly for the sake of his son. We must lie to him that Aswatthama has been killed. That will stop him fighting.”

Arjuna was very reluctant to tell a lie, especially to his dear teacher. Bhima who was nearby overheard Krishna’s words. The king of Malava by name Indravarma was fighting on top of his elephant named Aswatthama. Bhima killed the elephant with his huge mace and went near the Acharya. He then announced. “Aswatthama has been killed!”.

Drona pretended not to have heard what Bhima said. But, his mind was already in confusion and turmoil. How to confirm whether Bhima spoke the truth or not?

Bhima taunts Drona

Bhima, then spoke words meant to provoke the Acharya even further. He said. “You are engaging yourself in a battle that is not meant for a Brahmin like you. Your duty is to learn and teach the Vedas. Think of all the hundreds and thousands who have perished at your hands. This is a sinful act for the like of you. You better put down your arms and get out!”.

(The next episode will end the present chapter)

The War – 14th Night (Part 2)

It appeared on the 14th night that Karna, alone, would end the war for the Kauravas. None among the Pandavas could face the formidable son of the charioteer that day. Even Dhrishtadyumna, after waging a brave war against him, was thoroughly defeated. Yudhishthira was worried. He approached Krishna for his wise counsel.

Krishna said. “Only two on our side have any chance against Karna when he is fighting in the present form - Arjuna and Ghatotkacha. But, I do not want Arjuna to face him at this stage”.

So, the choice narrowed down on the son of Bhima. Krishna, himself, called the brave Ghatotkacha to his side and talked to him. Krishna said. “The time has come for you to show your real mettle in this war. You have many divine weapons in your stock. You are also adept in illusory warfare. See how Karna is destroying our forces mercilessly. Only you can meet him in battle today. You will be paying your due to your father through today’s battle”.

Ghatotkacha was eager to show his superior power and skill against a formidable enemy like Karna. He marched into the battle field in high spirits.

The end of Alambusha

As the demon was approaching Karna, Duryodhana was worried. He wanted to protect his friend against all dangers. So, he sent Alambusha, the son of Jatasura, to face Ghatotkacha. The two fought with bow and arrows and clubs. They also grappled with each other like two champion wrestlers for a while. At the end Ghatotkacha managed to chop the head of his foe with his sword.

After killing his enemy Ghatotkacha challenged Karna for a duel. The fought against one another for a while. It was then that Ghatotkacha was diverted again for another battle.

The killing of Alayudha

The brother of the demon Baka, by name Alayudha, had kept a grudge against Bhima for the killing of his brother. He attacked the Pandava on the 14th night with all his might. Finding that his father might be in trouble Ghatotkacha joined the battle against the demon. It ended as a ferocious duel between the two demons, Alayudha and Ghatotkacha. The son of Bhima, finally, put an end to the life of his foe with a powerful stroke of his sword.

Against Karna

Ghatotkacha, then, turned against Karna. The battle between the two became so violent that all the Pandavas and Kauravas were equally awestruck. Against the arrows with divine power dispatched by Karna the demon employed his powers of illusion. He disappeared in one moment and appeared as hundreds of Ghatotkacha all holding mighty arms. He caused rain with huge boulders creating terror among the Kaurava ranks. He used the opportunity to kill hundreds and thousands among the Kaurava ranks. Karna stood boldly against the demon using his arrows to nullify the effect of each illusion. But, Ghatotkacha, it appeared, had an endless stock of them.

At the end the Kauravas were so terror stricken that they pleaded with Karna to put an end to the demon by any means. Karna was in a dilemma. None of his arrows seemed to make an impact against the son of Bhima. He was left with the thunder bolt like weapon (Sakthi) he got from Indra. But, that was earmarked against his arch rival, Arjuna.

But, all the Kauravas continued to press Karna for action. What was the sense in keeping the weapon for use against Arjuna? If Ghatotkacha continued like this, there would be none left among the Kauravas to continue the war.

Karna was, finally, compelled to employ his closely guarded weapon. He dispatched the spear like weapon against the enemy. The unfailing Sakthi hit the chest of the demon and he fell down dead immediately.

There was relief and widespread cheers from the Kaurava ranks at the end of the formidable Ghatotkacha. The Pandavas were grief stricken. The son of Bhima was their favourite hero very much like the son of Arjuna, Abhimanyu. Both had perished fighting for their parents.

There was one person among the Pandavas who displayed relief and happiness. That was Krishna. He rejoiced aloud. “Karna has wasted his weapon on Ghatotkacha. Now, Arjuna is safe”.

When asked Krishna explained how he had carefully guarded Arjuna against possible dangers ahead and meticulously plotted the destruction of formidable enemies in advance. He cited the killing of Jarasandha (by Bhima in a duel) as one such move by him ahead of the Rajasooya.

Yudhishthira was very upset with the sad news. He remembered all the good services the son of Bhima had rendered on various occasions. He started marching immediately against Karna for revenge with a contingent of army. Krishna tried to dissuade him without success. Then, Vyasa appeared on the scene. He consoled the senior Pandava with the words that Karna was sure to use his special weapon against one of the Pandava heroes. If it was not Ghatotkacha, it would definitely have been Arjuna. After hearing the wise words of Veda Vyasa the Pandavas ended the battle for the day.

The 14th day (and night) was one of the bloodiest in the entire Mahabharata war. Several great warriors like Jayadratha and Ghatotkacha died that day along with thousands of others. Bhima killed nearly half of all the hundred sons of Dhritarashtra on that single day.

With this ends the chapter on “the killing of Ghatotkacha (Ghatotkacha Vadha Parvam)”.

The War – 14th Night (Part 1)

The killing of Jayadratha was highly demoralizing to all the Kauravas, especially to Duryodhana. So much precaution was taken to guard him just until the sunset on the 14th day. But, Arjuna had accomplished what was thought to be impossible.

Drona’s response to the Kaurava’s bitter complaint was an offer to take the war into the night of the 14th . The Pandava heroes like Arjuna, Bhima and Satyaki would be thoroughly exhausted from the day’s pursuits. That must have been the thought in Drona’s mind when he proposed what was against the rules. But, so many other rules were already broken. The war had degenerated into a “no bars” game.

Drona made havoc in the Pandava forces in the early hours of night All those who came across the Acharya perished on the spot. Then, Bhima came on the scene. He checked the onslaught and made heavy casualties among the Kauravas.

Somadataa against Satyaki

Somadatta, the father of Bhurisravas, was waiting for the chance to avenge the death of his son. He met Satyaki on the battle field. Hot words were exchanged between the two which later erupted into a vicious battle. The old Kaurava king had to be removed from the battle field when he was tormented by the heap of arrows from Satyaki.

Aswatthama against Ghatotkacha

Aswatthama waged a terrible war that night. None could stand against the son of Drona who started killing the Pandava forces in large numbers.

Ghatotkacha could not tolerate the damage done to his father’s army. He fought a spirited battle against the son of Drona. It was well known that demons are powerful at night. Besides, Ghatotkacha was an expert in illusion making warfare. But, Aswatthama knew the special weapons that could remove illusion. It was, thus, like a game of wits between the two for a long time.

The son of Ghatotkacha, by name, Anjanaparva, came to give support to his father. But, Aswatthama killed him with a well marked arrow right in front of Ghatotkacha. Soon, another arrow from the son of Drona pierced the chest of Ghatotkacha. His charioteer quickly drove the son of Bhima out of the battle field. All thought that the life of the powerful demon came to an end at that time.

Meanwhile, Aswatthama destroyed the batallion of demons in large numbers. It appeared as though the son of Drona would finish the entire Pandava army all alone.

Drona against Yudhishthira

Yudhishthira, himself, came on the scene to take control of his army that was in great distress. Bhima, Dhrishtadyumna and Satyaki also came in support of the elder Pandava. Drona concentrated his attacks on Yudhishthira remembering his promise to Duryodhana. The two fought engaged themselves in a duel exchanging several divine weapons against one another.
Arjuna also came on the scene at that time. Bhima and Arjuna supported their elder brother from the two sides and fought against the Acharya.

Krishna was apprehensive of the danger and advised Yudhishthira to keep a distance from Drona as the Acharya was bent upon catching him alive. Accordingly, the elder Pandava retired from the scene. Arjuna and Bhima continued their combined attack against the Kauravas and their Kaurava army started dispersing from the field in large numbers.

The end of Somadatta

Somadatta returned to the scene to face Satyaki, again. He was bent upon punishing the Vrishni warrior for the killing of his son. In the battle that ensued Satyaki killed his enemy with his powerful arrows.

Who will face Karna?

The intensity of the battle grew as the night advanced. But, it was difficult to make out friends from enemies in the pitch darkness. The battle was fought so intently that many perished at the hands of their own friends.

Then, the commanders on either side ordered torches to be lit. One could see even from a distance the glittering of the golden ornaments adorned by the soldiers and of the sharp points of weapons in the red light emitted from torches. The battle grew in intensity when there was light.

Several memorable battles were fought that night. Karna was bent upon proving his mettle against the Pandavas. He made several decisive victories and started destroying the Pandava forces indiscriminately. None could stand against Karna that night. All turned their eyes to Arjuna to put a check on the son the charioteer. But, Krishna would not let that happen.
Krishna spoke to Yudhishthira. “While Karna is in possession of his unfailing gift from Indra it is unwise to expose Arjuna. We must find someone else to face Karna at this juncture”.

(We shall learn about further developments from the next and concluding episode of the war on the 14th night)

The War – Day 14 (Part8)

There was widespread panic among the Kauravas when the awareness grew that their concerted efforts to protect the Sindhu king went in vain. Kripa and Aswatthama took it an insult to their defenses and attacked Arjuna in great fury. Arjuna forgot that he was facing his teacher and fought with full vigour. The sharp arrows from Gandiva pierced Kripa’s chest and he sat on the chariot floor losing his senses. Aswatthama was unnerved by the sight and escaped from the scene immediately. Arjuna was sorry for what he did to his teacher, one who was worthy of worship and not of punishment.

Arjuna Cautioned

But, his attention was drawn to where Satyaki stood. Karna had turned his frustration from the day’s events to Satyaki. Arjuna wanted to go in support of his favourite disciple. But, Krishna dissuaded him from facing Karna at that time. Krishna said. “Arjuna, remember! Karna has in his possession that unfailing weapon he got from Indra in exchange for his armour. Wait until he wastes it on one of his formidable opponents”.

Karna against Satyaki

Satyaki forgot about his tiredness from the day’s battles and fought against Karna tooth and nail. But, Karna managed to destroy Satyaki’s chariot at the end. Krishna observed the predicament of his friend and blew on the Panchajanya (conch shell) for help. Krishna’s own charioteer, Daruka, was waiting for the summons and brought his chariot instantaneously on the scene. Satyaki got into Krishna’s chariot and fought against Karna with renewed vigour.

To Meet Yudhishthira

Krishna spoke to his friend. “Arjuna, you have fought marvelously today and accomplished your main aim by killing the Sindhu king. Let us now go and report the matter to your brother. That must be your immediate task”.

Arjuna was fully aware that his success story was truly that of Krishna. Accordingly Arjuna paid rich tributes for the valuable help rendered by his friend.

Krishna, while returning, showed the battle field to Arjuna that told all about the level of the day’s destruction. Bodies of men and animals, killed and dismembered, lay scattered all around. Weapons of all type, shattered into pieces or held in tact in soldiers’ hands were also seen all over the place. So were the ornaments and various pieces of cloth that adorned powerful warriors before they met their end that day. Blood oozing out of human and animal bodies got intermixed and found their way out in streams in between heap of carcasses.

Yudhishthira’s Joy

Yudhishthira was greatly pleased hearing the details of the day’s battles. He thanked Krishna for the crucial role he played in turning the events in favour of the Pandavas. Yudhishthira did not fail to congratulate Arjuna and Bhima for the crucial battles they had fought and won.

Duryodhana laments

Duryodhana was greatly distressed by the loss of Jayadratha in spite of all the elaborate defenses he had built around his dear friend. He went and complained to Drona about it. How could Arjuna, Bhima and Satyaki get through the Kaurava defenses when the Acharya, himself, stood in the front?

Drona did not take Duryodhana’s implied insult kindly. He rebuked the Kaurava prince for raking up a war that was unjust and unwanted. He was trying his best. He reminded Duryodhana that he had said again and again that Arjuna supported by Krishna was invincible. But, he promised to continue to do his best. He suggested that they continue the war that night, too. The Pandavas must be all tired by the exhausting battles of the day. The Kauravas could take advantage of the situation. Duryodhana agreed to the suggestion and got his army ready to march against the Pandavas even after the sunset on the 14th day.

With this the war on the 14th day and the chapter on “the killing of Jayadratha (Jayadratha Vadha Parvam)” end. The next chapter covered in the next few episodes goes into the crucial battles of the 14th night.

The War – Day 14 (Part 7)

Arjuna was aware that there was no time for him to brood over the tragic end of the Kaurava, Bhurisravas. He drew Krishna’s attention to the task ahead. “Krishna the sun is about to set. I, still, have to accomplish the crucial task on hand, killing my sworn enemy, Jayadratha. Please drive the chariot to the Sindhu king”.

Jayadratha was closely guarded by several of the best Kaurava warriors, Vrishasena (Karna’s son), Salya, Kripa and Aswatthama. Besides, a large contingent of the Kaurava army had surrounded the Sindhu king. Duryodhana persuaded Karna also to join the group until sunset. That would bring the end of Arjuna and then the war was as good as won for the Kauravas.
Arjuna fought furiously. He went round and round the army killing several in the process. The battle field told the story of the level of destruction by the blood that flowed and limbs that lay scattered all over the place. Yet, he could not get near enough to Jayadratha. Krishna spoke after a while. “Arjuna, you will not get a chance until you defeat all these veteran Kaurava warriors. That looks impossible within the short time on hand. I will have to employ some tricks. I shall temporarily hide the sun for a while through my illusory powers. You use that opportunity to achieve your goal”.

The sun goes hiding

Jayadratha, all this time, was hiding behind the array of soldiers guarding him. He would occasionally look up at the setting sun and with glimpses of hope would go hiding behind his guards again.

Then, at last, Jayadratha observed the sun disappearing altogether on the western sky. He heaved a sigh of relief and raised his head nonchalantly. There was a shout of joy from the Kaurava ranks at the same time.

The story of Jayadratha

Krishna spoke to his friend. “Arjuna, look how relaxed the Sindhu king appears. This is the time for you to chop his head with your arrow. But, be careful. If you drop his head down on earth, your own head shall break up into pieces”.

Krishna, then, told the story of Jayadratha. Vruddhakshatra was the father of Jayadratha. He got the son after long waiting. When the boy was born a voice was heard from heaven which said. “This son of yours will become a very renowned king. But, at the end he will be killed by a famous warrior”. Vruddhakshatra was unhappy when he heard this prophesy. He got a boon after long years of penance that whosoever dropped the head of his son on the ground would have his own head scattered into pieces.

Krishna continued. “When Jayadratha was grown his father retired to the forest. He is now doing penance just outside the battle field (Kurukshetra). So, as soon as you cut the head of your enemy send arrows one after another and take the head to the lap of his own father”.

A very strange spectacle

All those who were guarding Jayadratha stood looking at the western sky for an instant. Arjuna did not miss the chance and sent a powerfully drawn arrow that chopped the head of his enemy. This was done before anyone realized what was happening. In the next instant all observed a strange sight. There was a head that arose from the Kaurava ranks. It went up higher and higher in the sky like a comet with a tail of arrow. Then, the trajectory turned towards the forest near the battle field and disappeared altogether. In the total confusion that prevailed the sun re-appeared in the sky for a while and set again for the day.

Vruddhakshatra was seated in the forest performing his prayers to the setting sun. He was disturbed by something that dropped down into his lap all of a sudden. He stood up in bewilderment and dropped the head that had fallen on his lap. In the very instant his head was shattered into pieces as per the boon he, himself, had asked for.

When his task was accomplished Arjuna blew on his conch shell. Bhima heard the sound and realized that Arjuna had kept his promise and let out a lion roar that reached Yudhishthira who was waiting impatiently for the good news.

(The next episode will have the concluding part of the 14th day’s war)

The War – Day 14 (Part 6)

We have seen how Satyaki fought through the Kaurava defenses until he reached near the place where Arjuna was closing in on Jayadratha. He wanted to join the Pandava in his struggle to get the Sindhu king. It was then that Bhurisravas suddenly blocked his way.

He was a Kaurava king who had joined Duryodhana with one battalion (Akshauhini) of forces. The Kaurava had killed ten of Satyaki’s sons in one of the earlier encounters of the war. Satyaki was, indeed, waiting for an opportunity settle the score with his foe.

The two fought fiercely for a while. The battle grew so intense that each destroyed the chariot of the other and both stood on the floor facing the other. They also cut the other’s bow string and then the fighting continued with sword and shield.

Arjuna comes to the aid

Krishna was keeping an eye on his kinsman (from the same Vrishni clan). He spoke to his friend. “Look, Arjuna, how exhausted your disciple appears. He has been through a lot of fighting today just to get near you. It is unfair on the part of Bhurisravas to fight against an unequal enemy”.
Krishna was worried noting that the Kaurava just then raised Satyaki with his two mighty arms and threw him down on the ground. In the very next instant he held Satyaki by the hair and was about to chop his head with sword held high in his right hand. Krishna shouted. “Arjuna, do not delay. Satyaki has given his best for your sake. You have the responsibility to save his life”. Arjuna’s mind was in turmoil. What should he do? He realized that Krishna had a point.

Satyaki’s life depended on him. On the other, Bhurisravas was not fighting against him. Then, with a resolve and with apologies to the Kaurava he sent an arrow from his Gandiva that chopped off the raised hand of Bhirisravs.

The sad end of Bhurisravas

The Kaurava king was shocked. He called out “Arjuna, how could you do this heinous act?. You were renowned for holding on to principles in the battle field. How could you harm me when I was not fighting against you?”

Arjuna replied. “Your opponent was, to start with, completely exhausted even before you took on him. Then you had disarmed him completely and even his armour has been shattered. Therefore it was an unfair battle from the beginning. What principle did you hold in trying to kill such a helpless enemy? Besides, within this vast army packed with horses, chariots and foot soldiers that how can there be single combats?”

Bhurisravas was too dejected even to reply to that defense of Arjuna. He decided to put an end to his life by fasting unto death and sat meditating with that resolve.

There was none who supported Krishna or Arjuna on this. Many spoke against the immorality of Arjuna’s act. Then, as though in reply, Arjuna spoke. “You all, including this Bhurisravs, killed my son when he was already unarmed and was fighting single handedly against so many veterans on your side”.

When he heard this, Bhurisravas lowered his head and kept quiet.

Worse still, every one was aghast to see Satyaki getting up suddenly and chop the head of Bhurisravs with the sword he picked up from the ground. Krishna and Arjuna shouted, “No, no!” But, it was too late. All those who were standing nearby accused Satyaki for his highly unethical act. But, Satyaki spoke in self defense. “How do you find fault with me? This man was my opponent in combat. It is my right to kill him. It was wrong on the part of Arjuna to interfere in this which was purely my battle”.

Nobody spoke after that, either in support or against Arjuna and Satyaki.

(the next episode continues with war on the 14h day)

The War – Day 14 (Part 5)

Yudhishthira worried again

The Senior Pandava was a worried man towards the evening on the 14th day of war. Arjuna had disappeared early in the morning in the vast Kaurava army in search of Jayadratha. There has been no news of him after that. Satyaki was sent to learn some news of Krishna and Arjuna. There has been no news of him either.

So, Yudhishthira called Bhima to his side and explained his worry to him. Bhima promised to bring good news of the missing Pandava heroes soon. Keeping Dhrushtadyumna to guard his elder brother Bhima plunged deep into the Kaurava army.

Drona blocked Bhima’s path as he was there in the forefront of his army. The Acharya mentioned to the Pandava how Arjuna and Satyaki managed to get away from him. The hint was that that was the only way for Bhima, too, if he wanted to proceed any further. But, Bhima’s nature was very different. As far as he was concerned he was fighting a war. It did not matter who his enemy was. So, instead of avoiding his teacher he faced the formidable Drona. The two fought fiercely like two equal foes for a while. Bhima, then, with a sudden movement swung his huge mace against the chariot of Drona and crushed it into pieces. Dussasana rushed to the spot along with several of his brothers to save the Acharya from Bhima. The Pandava’s attention turned then against his sworn enemies. Bhima killed three of Duryodhana’s brothers on the spot and moved forward leaving Drona behind.

Arjuna located

Bhima, in this way, moved further breaking through array after array of the Kaurava army. He soon reached the place where Satyaki was fighting against an army of the frontier men (Mleccha).

Bhima did not wait much longer there. He had accomplished part of his mission. He needed to find his brother who could be way ahead, deep inside the Kaurava army. Advancing even further Bhima located Arjuna at a distance. He then roared aloud once and then again a second time which reverberated throughout the Kaurava army and reached where Yudhishthira was waiting impatiently. The elder Pandava was highly pleased listening to the message from Bhima that clearly meant that both Arjuna and Satyaki were safe.

Bhima against Karna

Karna was very unhappy that Bhima also managed to fight through all the defenses that the Kauravas had so carefully built. He challenged Bhima for a duel and started sending sharp arrows against the Pandava. Bhima was in a fearful mood that day. He fought so ferociously that Karna had to escape with his life.

Duryodhana complains to Drona.

The Kaurava prince was very unhappy with the developments of the day. Arjuna had broken through layer after layer of the Kaurava defenses. Both Satyaki and Bhima did the same. Drona could have the excuse that his main aim was to get Yudhishthira alive. But, even that had not happened. So, Duryodhana went to the Acharya and complained bitterly about the reverses his army faced that day.

Drona was in a different mood that day. He said. “This war is unlike the game of dice you won by deceit with the help of your uncle. What you have now are arrows in place of dice that pierce through our warriors. Winning and losing are part of the game in war. What is required is the courage to face the enemy with resolve. I shall keep vigil where I am and hold our army together from further damage. Your attention must be to save the life of Jayadratha, because, that is where the main action is today”. Drona sent Duryodhana away with those words.

Karna returns to face Bhima

Karna soon came back to Bhima unable to bear the humiliating defeat from the Pandava. He always thought that it was only Arjuna who could face him in battle. What a shame that he had to escape for life from Bhima! So, Karna resumed his fight against the Pandava with renewed vigour. But, Bhima was unfazed finding Karna back on the attack. Karna started making fun of Bhima for the bondage and exile of the Pandavas and all the humiliations they had gone through. This enraged Bhima beyond measure. He unleashed such a terrible attack against his enemy that Karna had to flee in panic for the second time. But, he returned again. Several brothers of Duryodhana also arrived on the scene to support Karna. The Kauravas and Bhima fought fiercely for a long time. The battle was at times equal and on occasions in favor of Karna. At the end Bhima killed several more of the Kaurava princes like Durjaya and Durmukha.

Satyaki with Arjuna

Meanwhile, Satyaki had broken through all resistances and managed to reach where Arjuna stood fighting. Krishna noticed the arrival of his dear friend from a distance. He spoke to Arjuna. “Here comes your disciple, Satyaki. I am sure that he is being sent by Yudhishthira to enquire about us. Satyaki must have made several heroic battles against the like of Drona before he reached here”.

But, Arjuna was unhappy that Satyaki should have left Yudhishthira behind risking his capture by Drona. As he was worrying about his brother, Arjuna noticed that the formidable Bhurisravas had arrived in front of Satyaki to offer him a stiff battle.

We shall learn about the interesting, but, sad event in the next episode.
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