The Indian Dharma

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of a detailed introduction to the “Sabhaa Parva” and what are the key contents in it. We’ve discussed the “Aadhi Parva” in a great amount of detail and now the stage is set for the “Sabhaa Parva” to commence. We had witnessed how Sage Vyaasa explains the grandeur and the beauty of Yudishtra’s courtroom at Indraprastha, which is the newly built capital for the Paandavas. As we’ve witnessed earlier, Bhagawan Krishna took special efforts to ensure that the city is magnificently built according to all the norms, rules and regulations of civil engineering and divinity. As Yudishtra sits in the center of the courtroom, it resembled Indra’s “Svarga Lokha”, wherein Indra would be shining in the midst of the entire dazzling place. As Sage Naarada pays a visit to Indraprastha once all the construction activity is over, he also describes many such similar beautiful and dazzling courtrooms like that of Indraprastha. He talks about the Indra Lokha, Varuna Lokha, Brahma’s Satya Lokha, etc. in detail and how they look. 

However, the only point that was missing in Sage Naarada’s accord was how the Vaikunta was! For some reason, Sage Naarada kept mum on this and he never touched upon this point! All of us know that if one reaches the Vaikunta, he / she never comes back to this world again. However, if we transcend to either the “Svarga Lokha”, or “Varuna Lokha” or even to Bhagawan Brahma’s Satya Lokha, we would again end up coming back to this same “Manushya Lokha” once our “Punya” account is over. We’ve witnessed this in the case of King Yayaati earlier too, isn’t it? King Yayaati had enormous “Punya” in his name and after his demise here in the “Manushya Lokha”, he transcended to the “Svarga Lokha” of Indra. However, once his “Punya” was over, Indra pushed King Yayaati upside down into the “Manushya Lokha” again! Bhagawan Krishna too mentions this in HIs Bhagawad Gita – Depending upon the strength of a person’s “Punya” account, he / she repeatedly transcends back and forth the Manushya Lokha and the Svarga Lokha, and the birth-death cycle keeps on continuing. However, if one has to come out of this, the only way is to hold on to Bhagawan’s divine lotus feet. Once we exhibit our pure “Bhakti” and “Shraddha” towards Bhagawan, He ensures that we reach the ultimate Vaikunta, from where, we’re never going to come back again to this “Manushya Lokha”. Even during the time of “Srshti” and “Samhaara” of this world, Bhagawan ensures that those people who had attained Vaikunta never come back to this world. 

Thus, the point here is that, no matter how dazzling and glamorous every “Sabhaa” looks, nothing can equal the “Sabhaa” at Vaikunta. Bhagawan would be at the center of the entire “Sabhaa” at Vaikunta, swanked by Sri Devi and Bhoodevi on either sides, and with all the “Muktaatmas” and the “Aachaaryas” surrounding Him. This is ultimate bliss, isn’t it? All these points were not explained by Sage Naarada directly to Yudishtra at the beginning. He was dilly-dallying by explaining all the other “Sabhaas” around the world that were equivalent to Yudishtra’s Indraprastha “Sabha”. However, when Yudishtra kept questioning Sage Naarada for more explanations, Sage Naarada finally says that the most dazzling and important of all the “Sabhaas” is the Vaikunta. Further, Sage Naarada explains the beauty and significance of the “Vaikunta-Sabhaa” to Yudishtra, and all these points are explained in detail in this “Sabhaa Parva”. Readers should keep in mind here that I’m only giving a jist of what is there in the “Sabhaa Parva” and we’ve not yet commenced the detailed discussion as yet. 

Next important agenda on the list is the “Jaraasandha-Vadham”. Yudishtra once wanted to perform a “Raaja-Suya Yaaga” at Indraprastha. Bhagawan Krishna was also present during this discussion, and He explained to Yudishtra that this Yaaga can be possible only if Jaraasandha is killed. Many of us might be knowing who Jaraasandha was – He was the father-in-law of Kamsa, who was Bhagawan Krishna’s uncle. Bhagawan Krishna killed Kamsa, but Jaraasandha kept on escaping Bhagawan Krishna’s ploy to kill him. Now, Bhagawan Krishna uses Arjuna and Bheemasena to take on Jaraasandha and to kill him, and this war is detailed in a big way in the “Sabhaa Parva”. 

So for today, let us understand up to this point and we shall continue this introductory discussion further in tomorrow’s episode as well! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed a brief introduction of the “Sabhaa Parva” wherein the highlight here is a detailed description of Bhagawan Krishna’s divine “Leelas” as given by Bhishmaachaarya. The context goes like this – Sishupaala tries to insult Bhagawan Krishna and demean Him amidst the public courtroom, which irks Bhishmaachaarya. In response to Sishupaala’s allegations, Bhishmaachaarya gives a detailed accord on Bhagawan Krishna’s significance and enlightens the crowd with his touching words. This is the main crux of the “Sabhaa Parva” and Sage Vyaasa had literally felt sad that he had dedicated only one small “Parva” for Bhagawan Krishna exclusively. As we discussed yesterday, if we take the Mahabharata as a whole, Sage Vyaasa talks about so many people, so many aspects of “Dharma”, how people fought with each other and how “Dharma” defeats the “Adharma” finally. Although these were important for all of us to know, Sage Vyaasa’s only sadness was that he did not talk about Bhagawan Krishna in detail. It is for this reason he undertook the great job of composing the Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana wherein Sage Vyaasa dedicated the entire “Puraana” for Bhagawan. Specifically for Bhagawan Krishna, Sage Vyaasa has dedicated the “Dasama-Skandha” (Tenth Skandha) exclusively to describe in detail as to how Bhagawan Krishna incarnated in this world, what did He do during His childhood days at Gokula, how He killed Kamsa at Mathura, how He transferred Himself to Dwaaraka, etc. These are heart-touching episodes and we’ve witnessed all this in our “Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana” project earlier. 

Thus, we can witness here that Sage Vyaasa has packed all his emotions and love for Bhagawan Krishna into this “Parva” and this is why many Aachaaryas have declared that out of the eighteen “Parvas” in the Mahabharata text, the “Sabhaa Parva” has enormous significance. But the “Charitra” of Bhagawan Krishna in fact, comes towards the end of this “Parva”. We’ve to indeed wait for it a little more. This entire “Parva” isn’t dedicated to Bhagawan Krishna completely. It is only that particular “Upa-Parva” that talks about Bhagawan Krishna. Hence, we shall now continue from where we had left at the end of the previous “Aadhi Parva”, and witness the “Charitra” from there on. We’ve witnessed towards the end of the “Aadhi Parva” that the “Kaandava Vanam” was destroyed by the Arjuna-Bhagawan Krishna duo, from which, Mayan had escaped. Along with Mayan, Snake Takshaka’s son also had an opportunity to escape the burning fire. All these happened under the “Upa-Parva” called “Maya-Darshana Parva”, which was the last of the “Aadhi Parva”. 

Now in the “Sabhaa Parva” we’re going to witness how Mayan establishes a huge “Raaja-Sabha” for Yudishtra at the newly built Indraprastha city. Apart from this, Mayan also establishes some huge “Mantapas”, Luxury homes, etc. as well. Subsequently, the “Sabhaa Parva” talks about Yudishtra going and sitting amidst the huge “Raaja-Sabhaa” for the first time and Sage Naarada once again paying a visit to Yudishtra. Impressed by the construction, Yudishtra asks Sage Naarada thus, “Oh great Sage! How do you find this Raaja-Sabhaa? Do you think it is well-built? What are your thoughts on it?” Sage Naarada replies to Dharmaputra that yes, this Raaja-Sabha is excellently built, however, there are even more beautiful Raaja-Sabhaas that exist in this world. As Yudishtra requests Sage Naarada to describe those, Sage Naarada talks about the Raaja-Sabha of Kubera, Varuna Bhagawan, Indra, Yama-Dharma-Raja, Bhagawan Brahma, etc. Thus, we would be able to witness a detailed description of the Raaja-Sabhas of each of these people, in separate “Adhyaayas”. That is, one full Adhyaaya would describe how Bhagawan Brahma’s Raaja-Sabha is. Subsequently the next “Adhyaaya” would talk about Kubera’s Raaja-Sabha, and the description would go on further in this fashion. 

As we discuss all of these in our upcoming episodes, we might also start wondering thus, “Oh wow! It would be extremely nice if our houses are also of this type!” The descriptions are so beautifully given by Sage Vyaasa, however, as mentioned earlier, he had missed one important description here – He had spoken about various “Raaja-Sabhas” of various people, but he failed to describe how the “Vaikunta” would be! As we all know, Vaikunta is the Raaja-Sabha of Bhagawan Vishnu, who had incarnated as Bhagawan Krishna! This was a huge miss by Sage Vyaasa, and in fact, Bhagawan Krishna clarifies this in His Bhagawad Gita – He says thus, “Oh Arjuna! You might have enormous “Punya” in your account, which would take you to all these great Lokhas of Indra, Varuna, Bhagawan Brahma, etc. However, if you go there, once your “Punya” account is nullified, you would again come back to this “Manushya Lokha”. Only if your “Paapa” and “Punya” accounts are nullified, will you be able to attain the permanent “Vaikunta”, which only very few people are able to attain!” 

Thus, for today, let us understand these points about the significance of “Sabhaa Parva” and with this, we shall commence the events that happened in this “Parva” from the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had come to an end of the “Aadhi Parva” by witnessing the burning “Kaandava-Vanam” and how Snake Takshaka and his son escaped it. Along with them, we had also witnessed Mayan escaping out of it as well, and Bhagawan Krishna let him go unscathed because He had other plans to be executed through him. Thus, the ultra-long Aadhi Parva comes to a close and from today, we shall commence the witnessing of the next main “Parva” called “Sabhaa Parva”. This “Sabhaa Parva” mainly talks about how Bhagawan Krishna was born, and how He grew up, and how He is an incarnation of Bhagawan Vishnu Himself and all this is being narrated by none other than Bhishmaachaarya himself! Till now, we’ve witnessed the stories of so many people, starting from Shantanu Maharaja to Vichitraveerya to Bhishmaachaarya to Chitraangatha to King Dritiraashtra, to King Paandu to Yudishtra to Duryodhana. All these stories aren’t going to take us anywhere even closer to “Moksha”. However, the “Charithra” of Bhagawan Krishna is the one that is going to serve this purpose, isn’t it? So let us get inside the “Sabhaa Parva” and witness what are the contents in it. 

Unlike the previous “Aadhi Parva” which was extremely long, the “Sabhaa Parva” is precise and shorter. There is only one “Upa-Parva” called “Arga-Apiharana-Parva” which is quite long, wherein, Sishupaala (Bhagawan Krishna’s cousin brother) tried to defame Bhagawan Krishna amidst the public courtroom (Raaja-Sabha). To negate Sishupaala’s allegations, Bhishmaachaarya narrates the entire “Krishna-Charithra” in front of the entire “Sabha” so that everyone would get to know it. This is the main content that is present in the “Sabhaa Parva”. Since Bhishmaachaarya is trying to bring out the significance of Bhagawan Krishna in the public “Raaja-Sabha”, this “Parva” obtains the name called “Sabhaa Parva”. Of course, this is not the first time that Bhishmaachaarya is bringing out Bhagawan Krishna’s significance. At the end of the Kurukshetra war, Bhishmaachaarya again does the same thing in the form of “Shri Vishnu Sahasranama”, wherein he elaborates Bhagawan’s significance in much more detail. 

Thus, this “Sabhaa Parva” and especially the “Arga-Apiharana-Parva” can be considered as a mini version of the “Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana” that we had witnessed earlier. We’ve witnessed in our previous “Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana” as to how Sage Shukaachaarya narrates the entire “Krishna-Charitra” in the tenth “Skandha” (Dashama-Skandha), isn’t it? Readers can go back to our previous project and have a glimpse at it for more detail. It is the same “Krishna-Charitra” we’re going to witness in short here. We might wonder thus, “Oh! Why couldn’t Sage Vyaasa dedicate an entire “Parva” which could be as big as the “Aadhi Parva” exclusively for this? Why didn’t he dedicate a lakh slokas for Bhagawan Krishna exclusively?” In fact, after completing the Mahabharatam text, Sage Vyaasa himself was having this doubt within him! Upon having this thought that he has written about so many people in detail, and not about Bhagawan Krishna, he himself felt very sad and frustrated! The frustration was that, he spoke about so many other people, but not about Bhagawan Krishna in detail. It is to overcome this frustration and sorrow, did Sage Vyaasa volunteer himself to narrate and document the “Shrimad Bhaagawatha Puraana”, wherein he dedicated an entire “Skandha” for Bhagawan Krishna and His divine “Leelas”. 

Thus for today, let us understand this important point and let us wait till the next episode, we shall commence the content of the “Sabhaa Parva” in detail. Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the “Kaandava-Vanam” up in flames as Indra tried his best to put the blaze off with a bout of heavy rain. However, Arjuna was quick enough to employ the powerful “Aagneya-Asthra” from his even more powerful “Gaandeepa” and dissipated the rain-bearing clouds from the vicinity. The “Kaandava-Vanam” continued to burn and all the dangerous animals lost their lives inside the burning fire. Takshaka somehow wasn’t present inside the forest at that moment and he escaped the wrath of the fire. Finally, Mayan was the only human being who came out of the burning fire alive. Mayan was the “architect” and the “builder” for all the Raakshasas and the duo of Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna decided not to kill him. Instead, they wanted to use him for some construction-related activities later on. As Indra realized that he was not the target of Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna and it was only the “Kaandava-Vanam” that had to be burnt down, Indra too appeared in front of the duo and seeked unconditional apology for his wrong action. Moreover, Indra requested both Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna to ask him for a boon, which he was ready to grant. 

As Indra requests thus, Bhagawan Krishna folded His hands with respect and asks thus, “Oh Indra! If I’ve to ask you for something, I shall ask only for this – My companionship with Arjuna should always be strong until my final breath in this world! I have a special affinity towards Arjuna and this union of both of us should never be destroyed at any point in time!” We should note here that Indra is not asking for a boon to Bhagawan Krishna. It is the other way around! Bhagawan Krishna is asking for a boon to Indra. Moreover, we should also remember that Arjuna was none other than Indra’s son. We’ve earlier witnessed how Kunthi Devi prayed to the “Devatas” one after the other to obtain children, isn’t it? As Kunthi Devi prayed towards Indra, Arjuna was born. Thus, Arjuna was the son of Indra and it is only with the father’s divine “Anugraha” that the son’s life would be prosperous, isn’t it? It is for this reason that Bhagawan Krishna wants the father to bless the son first, rather than Him blessing the son. We’ve heard this proverb – “Matha, Pitha, Guru, Deivam”. The “Anugraha” of our parents (Matha and Pitha) are very important, and is even greatly significant than Bhagawan’s divine “Anugraha”. Thus, the message from this point for all of us here is that, if our parents aren’t providing their “Anugraha” to us, Bhagawan would not look at us at all! We cannot expect Bhagawan to provide His “Anugraha” if we disrespect our parents. Thus, through this point, Bhagawan Krishna indirectly brings out the significance of a father in a person’s life and it is because of this, Bhagawan Krishna wants Indra to bless Arjuna first, before He does. 

Thus, Indra provides his divine “Anugraha” towards both Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna that their companionship would last forever. In fact, Indra was more than happy because his son is getting the direct companionship of Bhagawan Himself! Can there be a better fortune than this? In fact, at one stage during the Kurukshetra war, Bhagawan Krishna expresses His fear that Arjuna might be killed by the enemy camp thus, “Oh! I could not even imagine a life without Arjuna by my side! How can I even think of losing him to any enemy in the war? I would stand by Arjuna and do anything and everything to protect his life!” If Bhagawan Himself has to say that He could not imagine a life without Arjuna, we can see how much dedication and devotion Arjuna had towards Bhagawan Krishna. We should understand from this point that if we’re claiming to be a “Bhakta” of Bhagawan, we should obtain a certificate from Bhagawan that He could not live even for a second without our presence! This is the highest stage of “Bhakti” that a “Jeevatma” can exhibit towards the “Paramatma”. Arjuna had obtained this certificate from Bhagawan Krishna directly, and we should get inspired by this to channelize our “Bhakti Maarga” in such a way that we follow the footsteps of Arjuna in pursuit of Bhagawan. 

Thus, moving on further, the “Kaandava-Vanam” continued burning for fifteen long days and with this, the entire area was freed up from all the dangerous animals and Raakshasas that were living there. With this, Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna relaxed themselves on the banks of River Yamuna and with this, we come to the end of the main “Aadhi Parva”. We’ve already witnessed the structure of the entire Mahabharata story earlier, isn’t it? The first main “Parva” was “Aadhi Parva” and it has taken around 230 episodes for us to complete it! Now, we would be moving into the next “Parva” called “Sabha Parva” and we shall wait till the next episode to commence it. So for today, let us understand these above-mentioned points and let us wait till the next episode to start the “Sabha Parva”, which has some “turning points” in the entire Mahabharata story! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an important event wherein Arjuna received his “Gaandeepa” bow from Agni Bhagawan, as Bhagawan Krishna blessed it as well. Apart from the “Gaandeepa” Arjuna also received a unique chariot with Hanuman on it’s top flag. This is the first time we’re witnessing Hanuman in the Mahabharata, and from this point onwards, Hanuman has an important role to play in Arjuna’s and Bhagawan Krishna’s trajectories of life. Impressed by his loyalty and “Bhakti”, Bhagawan Rama couldn’t have given Hanuman a better gift than keeping him by His side even during His next incarnation as Bhagawan Krishna. Thus, with all the equipment in hand, Arjuna ensured that Agni Bhagawan obtained his food in the form of the burning forest. However, Indra tried his best to put out the fire by bringing in the rain clouds, but Arjuna was at his best! His “Aagneya-Asthra” made sure that the rain clouds were dashed away from the burning forest! As the forest was burning, the duo expected Snake Takshaka to come out along with the other dangerous animals residing there, which were fleeing away for life! However, Takshaka was “out of station” (at Kaashi) and it was only his son who was still trying to hold on amidst the raging fire! Out of compassion, Arjuna decided to leave him alone and with the consent of Bhagawan Krishna, Takshaka’s son was allowed to escape the deadly fire. 

As animal after animal came out dead, finally there was one person who came out of the fire – He was none other than “Mayan” who was the builder for the Raakshasas. In fact, this “Mayan” was also having a hand while building the “Laaksha-Griha” along with Duryodhana’s other colleagues. With this, we come to an end of this “Parva”, and now we subsequently move into the “Maya-Darshana Parva”, wherein Mayan is going to have a conversation with the duo of Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna. Meanwhile, the “Kaandava-Vanam” was burning on and on for the next fifteen days, and Mayan was sitting inside the burning forest till the last day, amidst the plumes of smoke and heat. He was scared to face Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna as he knew that if he did so, he would be killed on the spot. He somehow wanted to resist the fire and stay inside, however, beyond a point, he couldn’t do so! 

Thus, hesitatingly, Mayan came out of the burning forest, and upon seeing the duo, he tried to escape along with the other animals. However, he wasn’t able to, and he surrendered to both of them. Unlike Mayan’s thought process, Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna did not want to kill him. Since he was extremely talented in building artistic buildings, luxury homes, excellent wood-work and interiors, etc. Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna decided that he could be employed for something useful, rather than killing him. In fact, Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna had no idea that Mayan was inside. However, it was only Mayan’s perspective that he would be killed if he goes out. Thus, when Mayan came out, to his surprise, he was greeted and welcomed by Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna. Only after coming out and meeting both of them, Mayan realized that the forest was burnt down not to kill him, but to destroy all the dangerous animals that resided there, which posed a security threat for people living in the vicinity. However, because Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna gave him a warm welcome, he wanted to do something good in return for their hospitality. It is at the same time, Indra also appeared in front of all of them, and he also realized that the intention of Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna was not to harm the Devas in any way. 

Realizing this, Indra was extremely happy as well, and he requested Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna to ask him for a boon together. Readers should note here that it is not Bhagawan who is requesting Indra to ask for a boon. It is the other way around. Indra is requesting Bhagwan to ask him for a boon. Now what is Bhagawan going to ask Indra? Does He even have anything in His mind to ask Indra? Let us wait till the next episode to find out! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an interesting background story for the “Kaandava-Vanam” to which Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna have arrived. Upon arrival, the duo meet a Brahmana Rishi who is narrating the historical significance of this place. The Brahmana Rishi explains how King Shwetaki wanted to perform a hundred-year-long “Satra Yaaga” with a group of sages, but he couldn’t succeed. As King Shwetaki undertook a penance towards Bhagawan Shiva, He guided King Shwetaki to undertake a Yaaga with ghee for the next twelve years, further which, Bhagawan Shiva would again guide him with a solution. Accordingly, King Shwetaki performed the “Yaaga” as per the guidance of Bhagawan Shiva with an enormous amount of ghee for the next twelve years – This was too much for Agni Bhagawan to take! As Agni Bhagawan choked with too much of ghee, he fell sick and immediately ran to Bhagawan Shiva for help. As Agni Bhagawan was terribly sick, Bhagawan Shiva suggested that he goes to this “Kaandava-Vanam” area and wait for Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna to arrive there. They would help him destroy that forest and with that, his sickness would come to an end. Meanwhile, Bhagawan Shiva sent Sage Dhurvaasa to King Shwetaki for continuing his 100-year-Yaaga. 

Thus, as per the instruction of Bhagawan Shiva, Agni Bhagawan was waiting for the duo of Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna to arrive. On the other hand, Bhagawan Krishna too wanted to destroy this “Kaandava-Vanam” and make it free of all the dangerous animals that were residing there. This was posing a grave security threat to the Paandava brothers and Indraprastha city. 

Thus, the decision was made and both Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna decided to “go for the kill”. However, at that critical point of time, Arjuna realized that he was just on a casual walk with Bhagawan Krishna and that, he did not have his bow, arrows and a chariot from where he would begin his destructive spree. It is at this time, Agni Bhagawan presents Arjuna with the “Gaandeepa” bow, which was extremely powerful in nature. It is the same “Gaandeepa” that Arjuna used even during the final assault at Kurukshetra. Thus, we should understand that Arjuna was presented with the “Gaandeepa” bow by Agni Bhagawan at this particular time. Not only that – Agni Bhagwan also presents Arjuna with a unique chariot, which had the flag of Hanuman over it. It is this same chariot that Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna used during the Mahabharata war as well. Thus, all the equipment that Arjuna used during that important war were obtained here. Perhaps, Bhagawan Krishna brought Arjuna along with Him alone, so that Arjuna would be able to obtain all these. 

Now that Arjuna had obtained all the requisite equipment, it was all up to him now to do the needful for Agni Bhagawan. Thus, all of a sudden, the forest went up in huge flames, thanks to Agni Bhagawan! He had consumed all the ghee that King Shwetaki had offered him, isn’t it? Now it is time that he used up all that ghee to make the forest burn down quickly! However, as the fire threw up enormous flames and smoke, Indra got alerted and immediately the rain clouds gathered around that place. It started raining heavily and Indra tried to show his mighty prowess in putting off the huge fire. However, Arjuna jumped in and saw this as a chance to teach Indra a lesson. He immediately pulled out his “Aagneya-Asthra”, locked it into the “Gaandeepa” bow, aimed it towards the rain clouds and with this, the entire set of clouds were dissipated within seconds! Thus, the rain came to a stop and with this, the fire started to rapidly destroy the entire forest area. 

As the fire was raging at the “Kaandava-Vanam”, all the poisonous and dangerous animals started coming out of it one after the other. Snakes, and other wild animals started running out, but were also killed in the process. As animal after animal ran out and got killed, Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna were eagerly waiting for Snake Takshaka to come out as well. However, to their dismay, Takshaka never came out! Was he resisting the fire and the heat by staying inside the forest? Actually the answer was a “No”! Takshaka had incidentally traveled to Kashi! He wasn’t around in that place! With this, the duo of Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna felt a bit let down. However, Takshaka’s son was there, and he managed to resist the immense heat and stayed inside the “Kaandava-Vanam” itself! Meanwhile, Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna realized that he was inside that fire, and Arjuna did not have the heart to kill him. Realizing Arjuna’s compassionate intention, Bhagawan Krishna also decided that they shouldn’t go after Takshaka’s son. With this, he was allowed to escape the burning forest area. 

So for today, let us understand up to this point, and let us wait till the next episode to find out who else was there inside the burning “Kaandava-Vanam”! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed an interesting event that has commenced wherein, Bhagawan Krishna makes His way again to Indraprastha to pay a visit to the Paandava brothers. He wanted to check whether all of them are living happily or not. Of course, Bhagawan Krishna had a special liking towards Arjuna, as all of us might know by now, and He wanted to spend some time alone with Arjuna for some reason. With all these in His agenda, Bhagawan Krishna arrived at Indraprastha, and found it to be extremely beautiful and sprawling! It was arguably one of the best cities that were ever built in this world, only next to Indra’s luxurious and lavishly built Svarga-Lokha. As Bhagawan Krishna entered Indraprastha, He was welcomed by Yudishtra and Arjuna warmly. After a brief conversation with Yudishtra, Bhagawan Krishna led Arjuna to a beautiful lawn and then to a dense forest area which was the home of Snake Takshaka. This place was known as “Kaandava Vanam”. Indraprastha was earlier known as “Kaandava-Prastham” and since this forest area is also attached to this place, it obtained this name. As both of them were walking along casually with each other, a Brahmana Rishi appeared in front of them seeking help in obtaining food. This was a peculiar help, as the Brahmana Rishi wanted to consume the entire forest by burning it down. Whenever he tried doing so, Indra would prevent the fire from growing by showering the rain all over it! This tug-of-war between the Brahmana Rishi and Indra was continuing for many years now, and thus, he wanted a solution to this stalemate. The Brahmana Rishi wanted Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna to put an end to Indra’s rain clouds. 

As the Brahmana Rishi explains thus, Bhagawan Krishna asked him back thus, “Oh Rishi! We shall help you out with this problem. That’s not an issue. But tell me one thing – Why do you want to destroy the whole forest? If you want some food, you can always pluck some fruits and vegetables from the trees and satisfy your hunger, isn’t it? Why are you trying to burn down the entire forest?” For this, the Brahmana Rishi explains his past historical background and why he wants this forest to be burnt down. The Brahmana Rishi explains thus, “Oh Bhagawan Krishna! Once upon a time there was a king by name “Shwetaki”. He was a great king and he once performed a huge “Yaaga” with the help of many great sages. Satisfied by the outcome of the Yaaga, King Shwetaki wanted to perform another “Yaaga” – This time, an even bigger “Satra-Yaaga” that had to be performed continuously for a hundred years! When King Shwetaki enquired with the same set of sages who performed the previous “Yaaga” for him, they denied it. The sages weren’t very keen in investing a hundred years in this “Yaaga”, as it was seen as a hindrance for performing their regular “Tapas”. 

Angered by the sages’ reply, King Shwetaki got angry. He tortured the sages and tried hard to convince them for the 100-year-Yaaga. Unable to bear his compulsion, the sages asked him to go and consult with Bhagawan Shiva for this. Hearing this from the sages, King Shwetaki immediately entered into a huge “Tapas” towards Bhagawan Shiva. Impressed by his “Tapas”, Bhagawan Shiva appeared in front of him and asked him what he wanted. King Shwetaki asked thus, “Oh Bhagawan Shiva! I want to perform a Satra-Yaaga, and you have to come and execute it for me!” Bhagawan Shiva heard King Shwetaki’s request and answered him back thus, “Oh Shwetaki! This wouldn’t be possible! Since I’m Bhagawan myself, I cannot come down and perform such “Yaagas”. Anyways, you do one thing – You keep performing a “Yaaga” with ghee continuously for the next twelve years. If you’re able to do this correctly, I shall guide you further as to how to proceed with the Satra-Yaaga”! 

Hearing thus from Bhagawan Shiva, King Shwetaki agreed to the deal. He started performing the Yaaga with ghee as per Bhagawan Shiva’s instruction, continuously for the next twelve years. Impressed by King Shwetaki’s dedication, Bhagawan Shiva once again gave His divine “Darshan” to him and guided him thus, “Oh Shwetaki! You’ve performed the Yaaga as per my instruction very well and I’m impressed by it. Now I shall give you further guidance – I shall send Sage Dhurvaasa to you, who is my incarnation! He would perform the Satra-Yaaga on your behalf with all the required austerities. You need not worry! He would come and take care of everything!” As Bhagawan Shiva assured him thus, King Shwetaki was extremely happy. Sage Dhurvaasa arrived, and the Satra Yaaga was happening in a grand fashion!

This is one side of the story. However, during these twelve years when King Shwetaki was performing the “Tapas” with so much of ghee, Agni Bhagawan was getting choked! How much of ghee can he keep on consuming continuously for twelve long years? Thus, Agni Bhagawan fell sick and he straightaway went to Bhagawan Shiva for a solution. Bhagwaan Shiva explained to Agni Bhagawan thus, “Oh Agni! You straightaway go to the “Kaandava-Vanam”. Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna would come there for some reason. With their help, you can burn down that entire forest area and have that as a medicine for your sickness!” Thus, on one hand, Bhagawan Shiva wanted this “Kaandava-Vanam” to be burnt down as food for Agni Bhagawan, and on the other hand, Bhagawan Krishna also wanted to destroy all the poisonous and dangerous animals that were roaming around in this forest area. Thus, both Bhagawan Shiva’s and Bhagawan Krishna’s wishes coincide very well. 

So for today, let us understand up to this point and let us wait for the next episode to witness whether the “Kaandava-Vanam” was burnt down or not! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Arjuna getting married to Shubadra who was Bhagawan Krishna’s sister, finally after a lot of hiccups. Balarama, Yudishtra and finally Draupati gave their consent for the marriage to take place and it happened with a lot of grandeur. The son who was born out of this marriage was none other than Abhimanyu, who broke open the “Chakra Vyuga” during the Kurukshetra war and laid down his life without knowing how to come out of it. The word “Abhimanyu” has a very interesting connotation – “Abhi” means fearless, and “Manyu” means being extremely ferocious when it comes to fighting a war. Thus, Abhimanyu was an expert and a fearless person in warfare and he thus played a very important role henceforth in all the wars that the Paandavas had to fight through. With this event, this Parva comes to a close, and before this, Sage Vyaasas describes the next generation of the Paandava brothers. Draupati yielded five sons from her five husbands, and apart from this, each of the Paandava brother’s other wives yielded one son each. 

As this Parva comes to a close and with the commencement of the next Parva, an interesting accord takes place. A couple of years after all these marriage events take place, Bhagawan Krishna once again pays a visit to the Paandava brothers, at Indraprastha city. By now, Indraprastha is a sprawling city with excellent infrastructure and luxury homes. This Indraprastha city is now much more beautiful than the Hastinapura city, wherein King Dhridriraashtra and Duryodhana were residing. Even in today’s scenario we would be able to see this – Newer towns would be much more planned and well-developed as compared to the older cities, isn’t it? For instance, we would be able to see some new suburbs that have developed of late, having excellent roads, drainage systems, streetlights, water connections, etc. Whereas the old city areas might severely lack in these basic infrastructure. This was the same case when it came to Indraprastha and Hastinapura. Since Hastinapura was an older city, it had its own problems, whereas Indraprastha being newly built, was excellent in terms of all infrastructure required for a luxurious living. 

Upon seeing all this, Bhagawan Krishna was immensely satisfied that the Paandavas were leading a peaceful and a happy life after all the trials and tribulations that they had to go through during their earlier part of their lives. Specifically, Bhagawan Krishna wanted to meet Arjuna as He was missing Arjuna’s companionship a lot and it was for this reason mainly, Bhagawan Krishna made His way from Dwaaraka to Indraprastha. Upon seeing Arjuna, Bhagawan Krishna was extremely happy and He wanted to spend some time alone with Arjuna. Hence, He took Arjuna along with Him to a nearby lawn which was extremely beautiful with all types of plants and trees. Beyond this lawn, there was a dense forest area with many thorns and bushes, along with some poisonous trees and plants. It is inside this dense forest area, Snake Takshaka was living. Readers might remember who Snake Takshaka is! We’ve witnessed him in many of our earlier episodes and it was the same Snake Takshaka who bit King Parikshit much later. This Snake Takshaka would come in the Mahabharata story in multiple places, and hence, readers are requested to make a note. 

Thus, as Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna were walking close to this dense forest area, suddenly a Brahmana Rishi appears in front of them from nowhere! Upon seeing Bhagawan Krishna and Arjuna, the Brahmana Rishi pays his respects towards them and requests them thus, “Do you have anything for me to eat? I’ve been roaming around here for the past so many days without sufficient food or water. It would be helpful if you could provide me something to eat and drink!” As the duo heard this, they were more than happy to serve the Brahmana Rishi. Upon asking him what he wants to eat, the Brahmana Rishi gave a very interesting answer thus, “Oh Arjuna! I want this entire forest that you see in front of us! I want to consume the entire lot of trees and plants that are present there!” Bhagawan Krishna immediately replies thus, “Oh Rishi! You can feel free to consume whatever you want! Why are you asking us for permission?” The Brahmana Rishi then lets out an important problem thus, “Oh Bhagawan Krishna! If I’ve to eat this entire forest area, it should be burnt down first, since it is poisonous at the moment! However, it is not as easy as you think. Whenever I try to burn it down with my “Tapo-Balam”, Indra drenches the fire with a lot of rain!  Hence, the fire gets puts off and I’m unable to burn it! This is where I need your help!” 

As the Brahmana Rishi explains the problem thus, the duo think what can be done! Now what is their plan for the Brahmana Rishi? Let us continue this interesting segment in the next episode as well! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna “playfully” executing the marriage plans of Arjuna and Shubadra. If things would have gone the normal way, Balarama and Yudishtra wouldn’t have accepted it perhaps! However, only if things have such twists and turns like how Bhagawan Krishna took it forward, we would also be able to have some enjoyment while reading and listening to Bhagawan’s divine “Leelas”. Thus, in yesterday’s episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna and Balarama leaving for the “Theertha Yatra”, with “Arjuna-Sannyasin and Shubadra alone at Dwaaraka. This was Arjuna’s golden opportunity to be with Shubadra, and he grabbed it with both hands! As time passed by, the couple were deeply into each other and eventually both of them left together to some other place, which nobody knew! However, when Bhagawan Krishna and Balarama were back from their “Theertha-Yatra”, they found out where Arjuna was, and without any option, Balarama had to accept for their marriage! 

We should remember here – It was Balarama who was put into the trap everytime by Bhagawan Krishna and it was the same when it came to the case of Arjuna and Shubadra too. Bhagawan Krishna exactly knew where Balarama would disobey His words. He purposefully wanted Balarama to leave Shubadra and Arjuna alone with each other, and when this wish came out of Balarama’s mouth itself, Bhagawan Krishna was more than happy to execute it. Finally, since it was Balarama who had suggested that Shubadra should be “of service” to Arjuna-Sannyasin, even though Bhagawan Krishna opposed it, Balarama reluctantly accepted the marriage between the two. Now it is the turn of Yudishtra to give his approval. But before this, Draupati had to accept, isn’t it? Even for this, Bhagawan Krishna had a plan. 

So the plan worked like this – Bhagawan Krishna asked Arjuna to come in the same “Sannyasin” form, along with Shubadra, to Indraprastha. Shubadra was instructed by Bhagawan Krishna to assume the form of a normal servant woman. Bhagawan Krishna also accompanied the two of them. All of them thus went to Indraprastha. Arjuna now goes to Indraprastha after around eleven or twelve years! We should understand here that Arjuna had come on a “Vana-Vaasa” for just one year, but because of all what had happened in the middle, that one-year-period extended all the way to twelve long years! Now as Arjuna comes back, Yudishtra hugs him with all his affection and understands what had happened. He was happy that Arjuna had married Shubadra, because she was Bhagawan Krishna’s own sister. However, this is still not known to Draupati.

As Draupati came out of her chamber, she too was happy to see Arjuna back. With the wink of an eye, Shubadra fell on Draupati’s feet as a token of respect. As Shubadra fell on her feet, Draupati blessed her thus, “Oh young woman! You will get a good and noble husband very soon!” As Draupati blessed thus, Bhagawan Krishna sharply intervened in the middle thus, “Oh Draupati! She has already obtained the blessing that you just gave her!” Upon hearing this from Bhagawan Krishna, Draupati was surprised! Who was that noble husband to whom Bhagawan Krishna was referring to? That person was none other than Arjuna himself! Upon understanding this, Draupati was more than happy and welcomed Shubadra into the family. She was happy that Arjuna had another companion in his life. 

Thus, the marriage was complete and both of them lived happily. Thus with time, this couple had a son by name “Abhimanyu”! Many of us might be aware of Abhimanyu and how he exhibited his capabilities during the Kurukshetra war. It was this Abhimanyu who entered into the “Chakra-Vyuga” formed by the Kaurava army bravely, but was killed mid-way! Readers should also understand an important point here – Right from the time when Abhimanyu was in Shubadra’s womb, he was imparted with key skills of warfare. In fact, there is also a point of view that Abhimanyu was taught how to bash his way into the “Chakra-Vyuga”, but before he could be taught how to come out of it, he was born! Even though Abhimanyu was exceptionally talented, he only had this one issue! This was clearly exploited by the Kaurava army to perfection! 

So for today, let us understand up to this point, and we shall continue this discussion in the next episode as well. Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna’s “Master Plan” to get Arjuna married to His sister, Shubadra. If Arjuna had to directly marry her, it might have been difficult, because Balarama would have been a stumbling block for the marriage to go ahead. He would have created unwanted issues. Thereby, to bypass Balarama in a “smart” way, Bhagawan Krishna made Arjuna dress like a Sannyasin and wait at the entrance of Dwaaraka city. Since that particular place was famously known for many popular Sannyasins camping there, Arjuna-Sannyasin became very popular too! Many people came and “worshipped” Arjuna-Sannyasin and Balarama also wanted to do the same. Hence, Bhagawan Krishna saw this as an opportunity to make Balarama visit Arjuna-Sannyasin. As he did so, Balarama became so impressed with Arjuna-Sannyasin and subsequently wanted Shubadra to also pay a visit to him. However, Bhagawan Krishna purposefully objected to it, saying that Arjuna-Sannyasin was young and this meeting might endanger Shubadra’s life. However, since Balarama is known to do exactly the opposite of whatever Bhagawan Krishna says, he insisted that Shubadra meet Arjuna-Sannyasin, and Bhagawan Krishna did not object to it further. The meeting happened between the two and both of them fell for each other. 

However, some days later, the story encountered a twist. Balarama wanted to go on a “Theertha-Yaatra” along with Bhagawan Krishna for a few days. Meanwhile, as they are on the tour, Balarama wanted Arjuna-Sannyasin inside the palace, so that Shubadra can be of service to him. The intent behind Balarama’s idea was that, if Shubadra served a Brahmana Rishi, she would be blessed with a good groom for her marriage. As Balarama proposed this idea to Bhagawan Krishna, it met with a stiff opposition. However, Bhagawan Krishna was anticipating such a move from Balarama and He was all set for it! Bhagawan Krishna however warned Balarama that if Arjuna-Sannyasin was left alone with Shubadra, things would take a drastic turn – Instead of blessing Shubadra with a groom, Arjuna-Sannyasin would himself become that groom! However, Balarama as expected, stood firm on his stance and Bhagawan Krishna again did not object to it further! 

Thus, Arjuna-Sannyasin was invited into Dwaaraka city and inside the palace as well. Now Bhagawan Krishna played His game to perfection – When Balarama was in a hurry to depart for the “Theertha-Yatra”, Bhagawan Krishna strangely was very slow in following him. He seemed to be quite reluctant in accompanying Balarama for some reason. Even as Balarama was pressurizing Bhagawan Krishna to hurry up, He was walking very slowly towards the entrance. Meanwhile, Bhagawan Krishna secretly gave some instructions to Arjuna-Sannyasin who was camping at Dwaaraka palace. When Bhagawan Krishna reached the entrance of the palace, He called the security guards and instructed thus, “There is a Sannyasin inside the palace and my sister, Shubadra will be of service to him. If he wants to continue his stay here, ensure that both of them are safe and secure. However, if both of them want to leave the palace, do not stop them from doing so. Let them go wherever they want!” Saying thus, Bhagawan Krishna accompanied Balarama for the “Theertha-Yatra”. 

The plan was very clear and spot on. As Bhagawan Krishna and Balarama made their way out, Arjuna-Sannyasin and Shubadra started loving each other even more and both of them eventually left the palace together! They started living a married life together until Bhagawan Krishna and Balarama came back! When both were back at Dwaaraka, Arjuna-Sannyasin and Shubadra were missing. Upon a frantic search, both were found out at some place outside Dwaaraka city, living happily with each other! The plan had worked! Now, Balarama had no other option but to say a “Yes” for the marriage! Meanwhile, the news spread to Yudishtra that Arjuna was in love with someone at Dwaaraka! Now the big question is whether Yudishtra would accept this marriage or not! Moreover, will Draupati accept? Let us witness Bhagawan Krishna’s next “plan of action” for this to happen! Stay tuned! 🙂