The Indian Dharma

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the Paandavas preparing themselves to leave the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara” after Bheemasena killed Bhakaasura. The next place where they were about to enter was none other than the “Paanchaala Desha” or the “Drupada Desha”, which was being ruled by King Drupada, who’s grudge with Guru Dhronaachaarya was still burning like a wildfire. As per the advice of the Brahmin family with which they were staying at the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara”, the Paandavas were about to proceed to the “Paanchaala Desha” wherein, King Drupada had arranged for a grand “Svayamvara” event for his daughter’s marriage. It would be a landmark event wherein many kings from many nearby territories would be in attendance, and the Paandavas would get an opportunity to meet them and seek refuge in any of their kingdoms. Moreover, King Drupada himself is an epitome of hospitality and upon seeing them, the Brahmin family felt that King Drupada would give them an excellent place with all the requisite facilities to let them stay there. Paying heed to the advice thus, the Paandavas were about to start, and at this time, an Upanyaasaka who gives a lot of spiritual discourses arrives at their place. With this accord, we move into the “Chaitra-Rasa Parva” wherein, as I had mentioned earlier, Chitra-Rasa, who is a “Gandharva” by birth is defeated by Arjuna, who in turn gets enormous amounts of gifts from Chitra-Rasa. 

Moving on thus, the Paandavas bid farewell to the Brahmin family with which they were staying, and start walking towards the river banks. They had to cross over the river again so as to reach “Paanchaala Desha”. As the Paandavas were trying to cross over the river, Chitra-Rasa was involved in “Jala-Kreeda” in the river. As the Paandavas were crossing the river, it was already midnight. The Paandavas chose the wee hours of the night to cross over because they wouldn’t be sighted by anybody around. However, when they were crossing the river, Chitra-Rasa saw them and stopped them. Chitra-Rasa engaged himself in a conversation with the Paandavas thus, “Oh people! Why are you roaming around during these wee hours of the night? Human beings like you aren’t supposed to move around during this time. These wee hours are meant for Gandharvas, Yakshas, Raakshasas etc. for moving around. Are you part of any of these three categories?” 

Here we’re seeing Chitra-Rasa clearly explaining for whom “nightlife” is meant to be! In today’s world, all of us start our day at night only! Everything in this world starts functioning only after 9 PM in the night. Nowadays, we even go to the extent of building a narrative that only if we’re allowed to roam around in the night, we would be having “freedom”. However, if we do so, we would only start developing the characteristics of “Raakshasas” and this is why our mind is not stable in today’s scenario. If our minds are roaming here and there without any control, it means that we’re slowly imbibing “Raakshasa” characteristics. Thus, without going here, if we’ve to imbibe “Saathvic” characteristics, we should ensure that we refrain from doing anything during the wee hours of the night. As the proverb goes, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise”, we should make sure that we’re up during the “Brahma-Muhurtham” time (4 to 6 AM in the morning). This “Brahma-Muhurtham” time is when the “Ozone” layer above our earth’s surface transcends down to the ground. As Ozone is extremely rich in oxygen content, it is very good for our brain and body functioning as a whole. Since oxygen is a vital element that stimulates our brain’s functioning in a big way, our productivity increases manifold. This has been proved scientifically in the modern day as well. This is exactly why our great Maharishis and ancestors have time and again emphasized that if we’re performing any of our tasks like studying, praying, etc. during this “Brahma-Muhurtham” time, our productivity multiplies to a different level altogether. We would become extremely intelligent and highly productive if we’re performing our tasks during this early morning time. 

Moreover, we should always remember one very important thing here – Wherever we are in this world, we should never lose our individuality. We have so many good things within us in our Bhaarata Desha. There is no necessity that we leave all this behind and go behind something “fancy” in the western world. Of course, I’ve also lived in the west and there are good things to imbibe from the western culture too. I’m not denying that. However, there is no necessity that we sacrifice our good things and go behind what is good in the west, isn’t it? Moreover, what is so special that is available in the western culture than in ours? We do not have any disparity at all! We should also remember one thing here – All the MNC’s that are headquartered in western countries understand that Indians are super-intelligent and productive, isn’t it? It is only for this reason that all those companies are employing Indians in all their higher positions, isn’t it? We know this very well, isn’t it? How did this intelligence come into us? It is only because our forefathers and ancestors have practiced their routines during this “Brahma-Muhurtha” time, isn’t it? 

Hence, we shouldn’t forget our basics and fundamentals. Just because we’ve achieved something in life, and just because we’re in the “Western world” and “Westernization” has taken over in a big way, it doesn’t mean that we sacrifice our “Indian way” of doing things. We should always remember that our “Indian Dharma” is something that is time-tested for thousands and thousands of years. Hence, as citizens of our Bhaarata Desha”, we should be proud of what we have in us. So for today, let us understand this important point and let us continue the discussion on the confrontation between the Paandavas and Chitra-Rasa in the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bheemasena emerging victorious against the treacherous Bhakaasura, who was consuming people for his food every other day from every family of the town. As Bheemasena approached Bhaka with the entire lot of food for the day, it was he who ended up eating all the food items that was reserved for Bhaka. Ultimately when Bhakaasura came to know that someone else had consumed all his food, he became furious and a huge fight between Bheemasena and Bhakaasura began. Ultimately, Bheemasena proved to be stronger than Bhakaasura in terms of raw muscle power and Bheemsena ensured that Bhakaasura paid for all that he has done! He ultimately killed Bhakaasura and with this, the entire town of “Eka-Chakra-Nagara” erupted in joy! More than erupting with joy, the town heaved a huge sigh of relief that they were henceforth safe and secure without the atrocities of Bhakaasura. 

As Bheemasena comes back victorious, the entire town was curious to know who was the person who killed Bhakaasura. As the people in the town started asking who this person was, Bheemasena was quick to morph his identity. He did not reveal his real self, because, if he does, Duryodhana would somehow come to know of it. Instead, Bheemasena replied thus, “Oh people! I’m an ordinary person who is residing with this Brahmin family nearby. It was their family’s turn to take food for Bhakaasura, and since they had given us hospitality at a crucial time, we had to pay it back to them with respect. Hence, I took up the responsibility to go to Bhakaasura. However, some “Devata” came in all of a sudden and with the “Anugraha” of that Devata which came by, Bhakaasura died. I did not have any role in killing Bhakaasura!” Hearing this from Bheemasena, the other Paandava brothers too joined the chorus and the town believed the narrative. However, after this episode was over, the Paandavas decided that they should move on to some other place. This is primarily because if they stay here for a longer time, slowly and steadily, the people might start realizing that they are not “Brahmana Rishis” as they portray to be and it might be dangerous for their safety and security. 

As the Paandavas decided thus, they asked the Brahmin family as to where they could go from here on. It was the Brahmin family that gave the Paandavas a heads up on the “Svayamvara” of Draupati that was arranged by King Drupada at the “Paanchaala Desha” or “Drupada Desha. It is this same King Drupada that we had witnessed earlier, who was involved in a tiff with Guru Dhronaachaarya. Readers might remember that the Paandavas’ first assignment from Guru Dhronaachaarya was to go and defeat  King Drupada, capture him and bring him alive to Guru Dhronaachaarya, as he had a childhood issue to settle with King Drupada. Readers must understand that every bit of an incident is important to be remembered in the Mahabharata and it would come somewhere much later. Coming back to the context thus, the head of the Brahmin family said to Yudishtra thus, “Oh great Rishi! You may proceed to the Paanchaala Desha wherein, King Drupada has arranged for a “Svayamvara” of his daughter, Draupati. This is the biggest event that is being talked about widely everywhere at the moment. There would be a lot of guests who would come for the event. There would also be great kings from many other “Deshas” assembling there. It would thus be a good opportunity to meet some of them and with their guidance, you may find a good place to live and continue your penance! Also, King Drupada is known for his hospitality. Upon seeing you as Brahmana Rishis, he would provide you with a good welcome and hospitality!” 

It is to be noted that this Brahmin family with which they were living, doesn’t know that Yudishtra and Co. are none other than the mighty Paandava brothers. They are amidst the impression that these five people are random sages roaming here and there in the forest. Taking their advice, the Paandavas decided to proceed to the “Paanchaala Desha”. As the Paandavas are preparing themselves to start their journey towards the Paanchaala Desha, there was an “Upanyaasaka” who came to the Brahmin family’s house. Normally, an “Upanyaasaka” is a person who narrates interesting stories about Bhagawan and His life incidents. This Upanyaasaka is going to narrate some interesting stories to the Paandavas before they start, and Sage Vyaasa has documented all these stories in the next “Upa-Parva” called “Chaitra-Rasa Parva”. 

As we begin this interesting “Upa-Parva”, I shall just give a short brief about what we’re going to witness in it – There was a “Gandharva” by name “Chitra-Rasa”. As the Paandavas were crossing the Ganges to reach Paanchaala Desha, this Chitra-Rasa came to fight with them. Arjuna took Chitra-Rasa head on, and defeated him. Impressed by Arjuna’s valor, Chitra-Rasa teaches Arjuna a technique called “Chaakshusi”. This is an ability to witness whatever we want to see, in front of our two eyes! Wherever that object or that living being might be located in this world – If one wants to see that object / being in front of his two eyes at that very moment, it is possible with this “Chaakshusi Viddhya”. It is Chitra-Rasa who taught Arjuna this important technique. In return, as a token of gratitude, Arjuna gifted Chitra-Rasa with the powerful “Aagneya-Asthra”. 

So for today, let us understand until this point, and let us wait till the next episode to witness the “Chaitra-Rasa Parva” in detail! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bheemasena getting ready to take on Bhakaasura. That morning, Bheemasena was extremely happy and enthusiastic and this surprised the other four brothers. As Yudishtra asked Kunthi Devi the reason behind Bheemasena’s “unusual happiness”, she explained that he is preparing himself to fight Bhakaasura, and that, she has given her promise to the family that has given them refuge at the right time. Initially Yudishtra did not understand Kunthi Devi’s words and he disapproved of the plan immediately. He did not want his brother to be the victim of Bhakaasura. However, Kunthi Devi made him understand and realize Bheemasena’s enormous power. She recollected how Bheemasena had escaped the wrath of Duryodhana several times, how he single handedly killed Raakshasa Hidimba without anybody’s help and how he was dominating the entire group of Paandava and Kaurava brothers during his early childhood days. Moreover, one should never forget the help that was rendered to us at any point in time. We should always strive towards repaying our faith in some way or the other to that person at any point in time. Now that this family was in danger of losing one of their family members, it is the duty of the Paandavas and Kunthi Devi to step in and give a helping hand. Even if one gets destroyed in the process, it is totally fine and acceptable. Atleast, the destruction took place during the process of repaying the faith of the person who has helped us, isn’t it? This was Kunthi Devi’s advice to Yudisthra. 

Understanding the ploy thus, Yudishtra finally accepted Kunthi Devi’s words and Bheemasena was extremely happy! On the other hand, the required food items and vegetables were getting ready and being loaded into the cart. Bheemasena was eagerly licking his fingers and waiting for everything to be loaded fully! It was a heavily loaded cart with enormous amounts of food items of all different types and tastes. It also contained a lot of fruits and vegetables as well! Thus, Bheemasena pulled the cart and reached the entrance of the tunnel in which Bhakaasura was residing. As Bheemasena was walking along with the cart thus, he thought within himself, “Oh! Before entering into the tunnel where Bhakaasura lives, I should find some spot nearby, wherein I can sit and consume all these food items. Else, if I’ve to fight and then eat the food, it might get spoiled by the time I come out. Moreover, I would require some strength to fight Bhakaasura isn’t it? Hence, I shall sit somewhere near this tunnel itself and start consuming all these tasty food items. 

Thus, Bheemasena found a good spot with a nice shade under a tall tree. He pulled the cart to that place, sat down on the floor and started eating all the food items one by one. As he was eating thus, Bheemasena was relishing the taste of the food. It is to be remembered that the last time Bheemasena had such tasty and huge quantity of food was when he was at Hastinapura. After that, since they were roaming in the forest here and there, he did not get the requisite quantity of food. But now, this was an opportunity for him to satisfy his insatiable hunger for food! Thus, Bheemasena was enjoying every bit of what he was eating. Towards the end, when only one piece of sweet was remaining in the cart, Bheemasena called out for Bhakaasura thus, “Oh Bhaka! Come out and see here! There are a lot of food items waiting for you outside! What is the use of sitting inside lazily?” As Bheemasena taunted Bhakaasura with these words, Bhakaasura eagerly rushed out of the tunnel – Only to see one small piece of “Laddu” remaining in the cart! Upon seeing this, Bhakaasura got extremely irritated and angry! 

As Bhakaasura was looking on, Bheemasena continued with his taunt thus, “Oh Bhaka! You might be wondering who would have consumed all the food items that were brought to you, isn’t it? That person is none other than myself! I was the one who consumed the entire food meant for you! If you have the guts and the courage, take me on and let us see who is powerful!” Upon hearing this, Bhakaasura’s ego was hurt! His anger knew no bounds now! Bhakaasura replied thus, “Oh Bheemasena! You are not even half of my size! How are you going to take me down? Just because you’re able to consume the cart full of food, it doesn’t mean that you might be as powerful as me! If you have the guts, come and test your power with me!” As both of them exchanged war of words thus, the actual fight began! Both of them were extremely good at raw muscle power. The fight went on for several hours and Bhakaasura showed all his might and power on Bheemasena! In turn, Bheemasena also showed who he really was in terms of raw muscle power! Finally, as the day was coming to a close, Bhakaasura was slowly losing his strength. Using this opportunity, Bheemasena inflicted a few lustful blows on Bhakaasura, which were extremely fatal in nature! Bhakaasura clearly couldn’t live up to Bheemasena’s immense strength. Thus, Bheemasena eventually killed Bhakaasura and emerged victorious! 

The entire world was seeing this epic battle with awe! The Devas were astonished by Bheemasena’s enormous physical strength. Indra was looking down from the “Svarga Lokha” without even winking his eyes! “Vaayu Bhagawan”, Bheemasena’s father was extremely happy with his son’s victory over one of the most treacherous Raakshasas of all times! The entire world celebrated Bhakaasura’s demise! So for today, let us also join hands along with the people of the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara” to celebrate Bheemasena’s victory over Bhakaasura! We shall continue with this discussion in the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂 

We’re amidst an important part of the Paandavas’ stay at the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara” wherein, they are put up at a Brahmin person’s house. The family consisted of the father, mother and two children. One day, the family was in a big feud with each other. The discussion was who would be the one to go and feed Bhakaasura for that day. As per the protocol, every day, one member from each household in the city would have to take a cart full of eatables such as fruits, vegetables, rice, sweets, savories, etc. along with a cow and give it to Bhakaasura. In return, Bhakaasura would consume all the food items in the cart, including the cow and the person who brings the cart. This is the agreement that the city made with Bhakaasura as he was on a rampage, destroying the entire city and its people. Thus, Bhakaasura was waiting for his food for the day, as this discussion goes on in this particular house and it is their turn now to go and serve Bhakaasura. 

As Kunthi Devi was listening to the entire argument, initially she did not understand the head or tail of the entire accord. However, once she got an idea of what was going on, she immediately made a plan on the spot. She replied to the lady of the house thus, “Please do not worry! I have five sons, isn’t it? All my five sons are great and powerful warriors. I shall send one of my sons as a representative of your house. I shall take that responsibility, since you had helped us at a time of need. You’ve given us shelter when we badly needed one. Hence, it is our turn to help you back. This is a good opportunity for us to be of help to you!” As Kunti Devi replies thus, the lady exclaimed immediately – “Oh Kunthi Devi! Please do not say such big words! You are my guest, isn’t it? How can I send a guest as my representative to Bhakaasura? You do not know how powerful he is. Moreover, by sending a guest on behalf of us, aren’t we committing a great sin? Because of this, we would go into the “Naraka Lokha” and would have to face the wrath of “Yama-Dharma-Raja” there. I shall bare this responsibility myself and give myself to Bhakaasura today!” 

As Kunthi Devi hears thus, she reassures the lady of the house. Kunthi Devi explains thus, “Oh lady! You do not need to be worried about my sons’ safety. I have full confidence on them. All of them are “Maha-Tejasvis” and are extremely powerful. They’ve obtained several secret techniques of warfare education. My sons know how to tackle any kind of Raakshasas who come in front of them! Hence, please trust me and let one of my sons go there and show Bhakaasura his place!” As Kunthi Devi reassures thus, the family is somewhat convinced. The lady replies back thus, “Oh Kunthi Devi! If that is the case, we’re fine with it. You may send one of your sons today and let Bhakaasura face his end with this!” As the family gives consent, Kunthi Devi calls Bheemasena. She knew exactly whom to send to Bhakaasura and her choice was spot on! Bheemasena comes and learns about the entire accord and accepts to go – But on one condition! Bheemasena replies to his mother thus, “Oh mother! If I’ve to go there, I would consume all the food items that I’ve to take to Bhakaasura! If you’re willing to accept this proposition of mine, I shall go!” Kunthi Devi was more than happy to accept this proposal from Bheemasena, as she was also thinking for a while that Bheemasena wasn’t getting sufficient food these days to keep himself healthy! 

Thus, the deal was struck! Kunthi Devi informed the family that Bheemasena would be going along with all the food items shortly. A grand feast was arranged and preparations were happening on war-footing. Time was also running short. At this point in time, Yudishtra came out of his room, only to see Bheemasena extremely happy and preparing himself to go out somewhere. Yudishtra did not understand the reason why Bheemasena was extremely happy that day, and asked his mother for it. As Kunthi Devi explained the whole Bhakaasura accord, Yudishtra did not accept. He did not want Bheemasena to go along. However, with the eye-to-eye signal from Kunthi Devi, Yudishtra understood the ploy. With this, Bheemasena was ready to take on Bhakaasura and also to consume all the food items that were reserved for him! 

Thus, the food was prepared and Bheemasena set out in the cart. He seemed extremely content and happy that day, as he was going to have a relishing treat! So for today, let us understand until this point and let us wait till the next episode to witness the Bheemasena vs. Bhakaasura “show of strength”! Stay tuned for the interesting update! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the Paandavas leaving the forest area where Bheemasena got married to Hidimbi and obtained Gatotgaja. After this incident, as per the agreement, Hidimbi and Gatotgaja left Bheemasena, assuring that whenever he needs his help, Gatotgaja would appear in front of him at any point in time and at any place. Thus, the Paandavas move out to the place called “Eka-Chakra-Nagara”, and by the time they enter the town, it is almost 2 to 3 years of time. By this time, the Paandavas have completely changed their appearance and they now looked like Brahmana Rishis, with their “Jataa-Mudi” and a simple “Vastra” around them. Of course, this was the instruction that was given to them by Vidura that they should be living in a disguised form for sometime wherein Duryodhana wouldn’t be able to identify. As they enter the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara”, the Paandavas meet Sage Vyaasa, who blesses them with enormous wealth, kingdom and ultimately the highest “Moksha” to them. 

With this, we also came to the end of the “Hidimbi-Vadha-Parva” and now we’re entering into the “Bhaka-Vadha-Parva”. This is also a very small “Upda-Parva” like the previous ones, and this is also one story which all of us might be knowing. Hence, we shall go a bit faster here as well. Thus, the Paandavas enter into the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara” and they seek refuge at a house of a brahmin person. This person had a wife, a son and a daughter. Of course, they were going along the entire length and breadth of the town seeking “Bhiksha” for their daily food. Of whatever “Bhiksha” (Offering) they obtain, one half of it would be for Bheemasena and the remaining half would be split equally between the rest of them, including Kunthi Devi. However, as days progressed, the quantity of food that Bheemasena was eating every day came down drastically. Bheemasena was becoming weaker and slimmer because of this. Upon looking at Bheemasena’s pitiable condition thus, all of them were doubting whether he would be fit enough to fight any enemy henceforth or not. Buoyed by hunger thus, Bheemasena was eagerly looking for someone to feed him ample amount of food atleast for one day. 

It is at this time that the people in the house in which they were staying were seen shouting at the top of their voice. There was a lot of commotion in that house and people were arguing very loudly with each other. There were cries too from the women of the house. Upon seeing this, Kunthi Devi did not understand what was going on. She thus peeped in to see what was going on in the house and why there was so much sound. Kunthi Devi saw the head of the family – The male member was lamenting to his wife thus, “Oh no! Is this what I married you for? Is this why I had a son and a daughter? I told you during the initial days of our marriage itself that we would not prefer to stay in this city. However, you never listened to my words. You were steadfast in residing in this place because your father resided here. Now see what is happening – We’re stuck up in the hands of this Raakshasa by name “Bhagaasura” and all of us are going to have a painful death in his hands. Now who will go to this Bhagaasura and offer him food? If I go, he would eat me off and hence, you would be alone all through your life. I wouldn’t allow that to happen. However, if we’ve to sacrifice our son, he is our next generation isn’t it? How would I have the heart to offer my darling son to this Raakshasa as his food? If I’ve to send my daughter to this Raakshasa, how do I have the heart to let this Bhagaasura kill my darling daughter who is supposed to have a good married life with her future husband? I’ll be failing in my duty as a father, isn’t it? Hence, given these constraints, I think that I should be the person who should go and give myself to this Bhagaasura today!” 

As this person talks thus, his wife replies, “Oh my dear husband! What are you saying? Why should you or our children be the victims of this Raakshasa? I should be the person to go. Of what use am I here? You can still survive alone and uplift our children. Hence, I should be the one who is going!” Similarly, the son and daughter also come forward to declare that they would go, so that their parents would be protected. Upon hearing all these accords frantically from these people, Kunthi Devi did not understand what was going on! She was wondering who this Raakshasa was! Who is this Bhagaasura and why should people go and fall prey to him? What was his requirement? 

Having all these questions in mind thus, Kunthi Devi comes forward and enquires with the family. The father replies thus, “Oh Devi! There is a Raakshasa by name Bhakaasura who lives in the outskirts of this town. Every now and then he would come and destroy houses here, and kill some people for his food. Thus, unable to bare his atrocities beyond a point, the city came to an agreement that every family would take turns to supply him huge amounts of food items such as milk, honey, rice, sambhar, vegetables, sweets, fruits, etc. along with one person and a cow. Bhakaasura should consume all of it for that day, and leave the rest of the people alive. Bhakaasura too agreed to this deal and it is the turn of our family to do the needful today. This is where the entire argument is shaping up from! Our dilemma is whom to go as a victim of Bhakaasura!” 

As Kunthi Devi listens to the entire accord, she makes up a plan! What was Kunthi Devi’s plan? Let us eagerly wait till the next episode to find out! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the birth of Ghatotgaja to Bheemasena and Hidimbi, after Bheemasena killed her brother, Hidimba. As per Hidimbi’s request, she married Bheemasena and had a child by name Ghatotgaja, who is going to be extremely instrumental during the Kurukshetra war. Ghatotgaja, as he was leaving Bheemasena, gave him an assurance that whenever his father wanted him for any help, he would appear immediately then and there. Thus, Ghatotgaja did appear during the Mahabharata war and was instrumental in neutralizing key people in the Kaurava camp. As Ghatotgaja was born, Hidimbi and Ghatotgaja left Bheemasena and the Paandavas proceeded from that place further. 

As the Paandavas, including Kunthi Devi start walking down the forest lanes, they reach a place called “Eka-Chakra-Nagara”. As they enter into a city for the first time in so many years, the Paandavas have almost transformed into the appearance of Maharishis, with the “Jataa-Mudi” (Long hairs and beards) and simple clothing. We’ve to understand here that the time from which the Paandavas escaped out of the “Laaksha Griha” till the time that we’re talking about now, would be 2 to 3 years easily. This is because, after they left Vaaranaavatha Desha, the Paandavas were roaming around in the forest for a few months, before the Hidimba-Hidimbi episode took place. Subsequently, Bheemasena had lived with Hidimbi for sometime, until Ghatotgaja was born. This would have ideally consumed two years of time. It is only after Ghatotgaja was born, Hidimbi left Bheemasena and then, they go to the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara”. Readers should not confuse this phase of the Paandavas in the forest with the “Agnyaata-Vaasa”. That is going to happen much later after Yudishtra loses the gambling game against Duryodhana and Co. Now, this is the initial phase of their life before their marriage with Draupati. 

Thus, the Paandavas have completely changed their appearance in these two to three years of living in the forest amongst the sages. Moreover, that was the instruction given by Vidura as well isn’t it? As the Paandavas left Hastinapura, Vidura had indirectly advised them to live a disguised life for sometime after they escape from the “Laaksha Griha”, so that, Duryodhana and Co. wouldn’t be able to find out their whereabouts. Thus, as per Vidura’s instruction, the Paandavas have morphed their appearance completely and they’ve developed a physical identity in such a way that nobody, not even Duryodhana would be able to identify them. 

As the Paandavas were entering into the “Eka-Chakra-Nagara”, the Paandavas have the unique opportunity to meet Sage Veda-Vyaasa. Upon seeing the Paandavas in this form, Sage Vyaasa, being a great sage with a lot of “Tapo-Bhala”, identified them and came to see them. Upon seeing Sage Vyaasa, the Paandavas paid all the due respects to him. As the Paandavas provided all the hospitality, Sage Vyaasa was extremely happy and impressed. Upon seeing Yudishtra, Sage Vyaasa blesses thus, “Oh Yudishtra! Please do not worry. This is just a temporary phase of difficulty in your life. Very soon, you’re going to be revered and respected by the entire world as “Dharma-Putra” or the “Epitome of Dharma”! You’re going to be a great king and you would be performing countless numbers of “Raaja-Suya Yaagas” and “Ashwamedha Yaagas”. You would be a great ruler for many years, after which you would attain the highest “Moksha” with Bhagawan’s divine “Anugraha”!” 

As Sage Vyaasa blesses Yudishtra thus, he looks at Kunthi Devi and blesses her too. He says, “Oh Kunthi! Please do not worry! These phases of difficulties are just passing clouds. You’re going to see light at the end of the tunnel very soon, and your sons are going to be great people and you’re going to become a proud mother! Hence, please tolerate this small bit of inconvenience that is meted out to you for no fault of yours!” Saying thus, Sage Vyaasa quickly leaves the place, and with this, we come to the end of the “Hidimba-Vatha-Parva”. These are all small “Upa-Parvas” and I’m going a bit faster with them. There are important places which we would slow down again, and for today, let us understand until this point. We shall continue with this discussion of what the Paandavas did at “Eka-Chakra-Nagara” in the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bheemasena and Hidimbi engaged in a deep conversation, wherein Hidimbi wanted to marry Bheemasena almost immediately. Bheemasena was however not ready to marry her as she was a Raakshasi and moreover, he would leave such marriage decisions to be taken by his mother and in consultation with his four brothers who were sleeping at that time. Bheemasena tried to excuse himself from her by saying that his brothers and his mother were fast asleep and she should come after a while once all of them were awake. However, Hidimbi stood by her stance of marrying him then and there. Hidimbi tried to lure him by saying that she would protect them from Hidimba, her brother, who was looking to kill all of them! This irked Bheemasena and he replied to her that he can single handedly take Hidimba down without anybody’s help. As this conversation was ongoing thus, Hidimba arrived at the scene and a huge fight between Bheemasena and Hidimba started. 

Both were equally powerful and they attacked each other very intensely. Hearing some sounds of intense fighting going on, Kunthi Devi and Arjuna woke up from their slumber – Only to find Bheemasena fighting with a huge Raakshasa! At first, both of them got terrified and they woke up Yudishtra, Nakula and Sahadeva. The four brothers rushed to the spot and asked Bheemasena if they could help him. But Bheemasena was steadfast in taking Hidimba down all by himself! He refused their help and the fight went on and on! Finally, Hidimba wasn’t able to match Bheemasena’s immense and raw muscle power and with brute force, Bheemasena gave a decisive blow to Hidimba, with which he fell down on the ground, dead! Thus, Bheemasena ensured that Hidimba’s atrocities came to an end. 

Thus, as Hidimba fell dead, Hidimbi was standing beside him and as Kunthi Devi saw her, she fell on Kunthi Devi’s feet and requested her to give permission to marry Bheemasena. Kunthi Devi too understood Hidimbi’s good intention and she recommended Bheemasena to go ahead and marry her. Hidimbi promises to them thus, “Oh Mother! I shall be a good wife to your son. Although I’m a Raakshasi by birth, I would live with him as a normal woman, with all the required characteristics. Hence, you can trust me and get me married with Bheemasena!” Accordingly, Bheemasena was also convinced. He replies to Hidimbi thus, “Oh Hidimbi! I accept your proposal since my mother has also accepted it. However, please remember one thing – Although you might be a good wife to me, end of the day you are a Raakshasa woman. I cannot live with a Raakshasa woman for a long time. However, I shall live with you until the time you get a child out of our marriage. After that, I would have to proceed with my mother and brothers. If you accept this deal, I shall marry you!” 

As Bheemasena explains his stance thus, Hidimbi accepts it and thus, both of them get married. Thus, the son who took birth from their marriage is none other than “Ghatotgaja”. He was born with a huge physical body and this is the same Ghatotgaja who came amidst the Kurukshetra war for just one day and was instrumental in killing important people from the Kaurava army. In fact, we can say that Ghatotgaja was the actual savior of the Paandavas during the war, at a time when the Kauravas were slowly drifting away towards victory. It was Bhagawan Krishna’s idea to bring Ghatotgaja into the warfield to take on Duryodhana and Co. and to instill some sort of fear in the minds of the Kauravas. Ultimately, however, Ghatotgaja was killed during the war and he sacrificed his life to save his father! We shall witness a detailed accord of this at the time when we would witness the Kurukshetra war in an elaborate detail. 

As Ghatotgaja was born and growing up thus, he gives an assurance to his father, Bheemasena: “Oh father! I’ll have to leave now. However, I would appear in front of you at any moment and at any location, whenever you want to see me. If you require any help from me at any time, please feel free to think of me and I would come for you! You can be rest assured!” Saying thus, Ghatotgaja disappears from that spot. As Ghatotgaja left the spot, Hidimbi also wanted to go along with her son, and as per the deal, Hidimbi also left that place. So for today, let us understand until this point, and let us wait for the next episode to continue this discussion further! Where did the Paandavas go next? Stay tuned for an important discussion! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the Paandavas roaming around in the forest all alone, after they escaped the ploy of Duryodhana burning them down under the “Laaksha Griha”. On one hand, Duryodhana and Co. are of the belief that the Paandavas have been burnt alive, but on the other hand, thanks to Vidura, the Paandavas are safe and secure. As they were in the forest, one day, a Raakshasa by name Hidimba spots them and thus thinks that these people could be killed for his prey for the day. He sends his sister, Hidimbi to check who these people were, before going ahead to kill them. As Hidimbi comes along, all of them were fast asleep, except Bheemasena, who was fuming within himself seeking revenge on Duryodhana for ruining their lives. On the other hand, Bheemasena was crying upon seeing Yudishtra sleeping on the floor, instead of sleeping in the royal palace, which he rightly deserves. It is at this state, Hidimbi meets Bheemasena, and upon seeing him face-to-face, Hidimbi falls in love with Bheemasena instantaneously! Hence, rather than checking on who these five people were, Hidimbi directly proposes to Bheemasena that she wants to marry him! 

Upon hearing this from Hidimbi, Bheemasena was shocked initially! He did not know how to react. However, Bheemasena replied back thus, “Oh lady! I do not even know who you are, and where are you from. Moreover, all my brothers and my mother are sleeping at the moment. I cannot give you an answer without consulting all of them. Moreover, I’ve never received any such instant proposals ever in my life. It is not apt for me at this stage to accept proposals just like that. Also, we’re going through a very bad situation in our lives. We’re wandering amidst the forest because we were plotted to be killed by Duryodhana and Co. at Hastinapura for no fault of ours. Hence, given all these limitations that we are facing right now, I might not be able to marry you!” As Bheemasena replies thus, Hidimbi was clearly not satisfied. She somehow wanted to marry Bheemasena then and there and she was steadfast with her resolution. Hidimbi replies back to Bheemasena thus, “Oh Bheemasena! I know what your situation is. Moreover, you can wake all of them up and let them decide now itself whether we both can get married or not. It’s not a difficult thing isn’t it? Also, let me tell you one important thing about who I am. I’m Hidimbi, sister of a Raakshasa by name Hidimba. Please understand that Hidimba is plotting to kill all of you and it is with this intention he had sent me to you. However, since I’m in love with you, I can take all of you from this place to a safer place wherein Hidimba wouldn’t be able to trace your whereabouts. I shall take the responsibility to protect all of you!” 

As Hidimbi proposes thus, Bheemasena’s ego was slightly hurt. He replies thus, “Oh Hidimbi! What do you think of us? Do you think we’re powerless? I can manage a thousand Hidimbas single handedly at the same time. You do not need to worry about our safety. We are warriors and we know how to take care of ourselves well. I do not need your help in protecting us. Hence, don’t try to play down our strengths and push your agenda on to us. Now that you’ve mentioned that you are a “Raakshasa”, I cannot marry you. Hence, please leave me and look for another person who can marry you!” 

As this conversation was going on between the two of them, Hidimba arrived at the scene. It has been a while since he had sent Hidimbi to check for the whereabouts of these people, but she hasn’t come back with any information. Hence, Hidimba himself came along to see what had happened. Learning what had conspired between the two of them, Hidimba became angry! He shouted thus, “Oh Hidimbi! What are you doing here? Instead of checking these people’s whereabouts, you’ve fallen in love with them! This is not fair! You walk away from here. I shall take care of them by myself!” Saying thus, Hidimba tried to attack Bheemasena straightaway! 

Sensing that there is a huge danger approaching him in the form of Hidimba, Bheemasena decided to give it back to him! He decided to show his strength! As the others were fast asleep, Bheemasena drew Hidimba to a distance and a huge fight between the two of them erupted! Both of them were extremely powerful! As Hidimbi was looking at all this, Bheemasena and Hidimba were involved in an intense battle. As the war progresses further, Kunthi Devi and Arjuna slowly wake up to see what was happening! Initially they did not find Bheemasena around, and both of them started to search for him, only to find him involved in an intense fight with Hidimba! So for today, let us understand until this point and let us wait till the next episode to find out the result of this battle. Is Bheemasena going to stamp his authority over Hidimba or vice-versa? Stay tuned for the important update! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Vidura lambasting Bhishmaachaarya for his relative inaction towards Duryodhana’s atrocity of going to the extent of killing the Paandava brothers for no fault of theirs. Vidura clearly outlined Bhishmaachaarya’s strengths – both physical and mental, yet, something was holding him back from taking strict action against Duryodhana for his wrongdoings. Forget doing something – Bhishmaachaarya could have once raised his voice and condemned Duryodhana for his “Adharma”, but Bhishmaachaarya rather remained a mute spectator to what was happening in front of his two eyes. As Vidura asks Bhishmaachaarya as to why he was silent, Bhishmaachaarya replied back with tears in his eyes saying that it was his magnanimity towards King Dhirdiraashtra and Paandu that was making him keep mum! He was unable to raise his voice because he was constantly pulled back by the attachment and affection he had towards King Dhiridraashtra and his sons. Thus, Bhishmaachaarya gave more importance to his worldly attachment than to protecting “Dharma” by taking a neutral stance. This is where Bhishmaachaarya failed miserably and for all of this, he is going to face the wrath sooner or later. We shall find out as the time approaches. 

Thus, these were the happenings at Hastinapura, post the “Laaksha Griha” episode that happened at Vaaranavatha Desha. Moving on thus, we shall now shift our focus towards the Paandava brothers and Kunthi Devi and let us see what happened to them post this heinous attempt to kill. As we’ve witnessed earlier, Vidura’s assistant helped them to cross the river Ganges in his raft and after this, the Paandavas were roaming around in the dense forest area. That entire day went off in roaming here and there in the forest area, and during the night time, all of them were tired. They just spotted a huge tree and beneath this tree, all of them were lying down. As Mother Kunthi Devi and his brothers were fast asleep, Bheemasena was the only one who was awake. He shed tears of sorrow upon looking at his mother and his brothers who were sleeping on the muddy surface. Yudishtra was supposed to be a great king, and he should have been sleeping on his royal cot in the palace. However, as fate would have it, he was sleeping on the floor, amidst the heat, cold and rain. Upon looking at this, Bheemasena couldn’t hold back his tears. 

As Bheemasena was crying thus, he was also simultaneously looking out for some food and water for all of them. It is at this time, there was a Raakshasa by name “Hidimba” who was sitting on the top of a nearby tree trunk. This Hidimba spots these five people and thought that he has a good amount of food today! He wanted to kill these five people and have them as his prey. With this in mind, Hidimba called his sister, whose name was “Hidimbi”. Hidimba tells Hidimbi thus, “Oh sister! Look there! We have some five or six human beings wandering around without knowing that they’ve come near a powerful Raakshasa. You go and see if we can capture them and eat them off!” 

Thus, as per Hidimba’s instruction, Hidimbi comes along to see who these people are. Before killing them, she wanted to know their whereabouts and where they were from. As Hidimbi came closer, it was only Bheemasena who was awake and the rest were sleeping. Upon seeing Bheemasena for the first time, instead of the fighting attitude, Hidimbi fell in love with Bheemasena instantly! She decided on the spot that if at all there’s a marriage for her in this lifetime, it should only be with this person and nobody else! With this intention, she approaches Bheemasena and slowly starts a conversation with him. As Bheemasena introduces himself to her, she knows that this person is not an ordinary boy. He is a very powerful person and her love for him only increased from there on. Thus, Hidimbi slowly expresses her interest to marry Bheemasena. She proposes to Bheemasena that she wants to marry him immediately as she started loving him so much! 

Upon hearing Hidimbi’s direct proposal, Bheemasena couldn’t believe his ears! He initially did not know how to react to Hidimbi’s request. So what is Bheemasena going to reply? Is he going to accept Hidimbi’s request to marry her? Let us wait till the next episode to witness Bheemasena’s reaction! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the entire Hastinapura kingdom believing that the Paandavas along with Kunthi Devi had been burnt down in the “mishap” that happened at the Vaaranavatha Desha. As everybody was crying and mourning, only two people weren’t – One was Duryodhana, obviously for all the wrong reasons and the other was Vidura, who made sure that Duryodhana’s “wrong intentions” never frutified. The “Jala-Tharpana” for the “departed souls” were being performed and as Bhishmaachaarya was also crying, Vidura called him by his side and explained that the Paandavas were very much alive and safe! Upon hearing this, Bhishmaachaarya was surprised and shocked! How could this be the case? Vidura explained to him the entire “Modus Operandi” that he had performed through two workmen and how the Paandavas are now safe and secure on the other side of the River Ganga.

Upon hearing this from Vidura, Bhishmaachaarya heaved a huge sigh of relief. He came to know of Duryodhana’s ploy and that this was not an “accident” as everyone was thinking. There was a huge plan and a revengeful attitude behind Duryodhana’s action, and as Bhishmaachaarya knew of it, he did not know what to say! He was internally fuming with anger against Duryodhana, but did not express it in front of Vidura. However, Vidura knew that Bhishmaachaarya is holding himself back from taking any action on Duryodhana, and this is not the first time that he’s silent. He was silent even when Duryodhana attempted to kill Bheemasena multiple times during the childhood days. 

Looking at Bhishmaachaarya’s silence, Vidura replies thus, “Oh Pita-Maha! This is not right on your part at all! You’re such a great warrior and anybody and everybody in this world would start shaking with fear with your mere presence in the battlefield. You’re a person with immense strength and power. You’re blessed not only with physical power, but also with enormous mental intellect to take right and informed decisions at critical times. You’re blessed to be Mother Ganga’s own son. Given all these attributes, you’re not doing justice to any of what you have! When “Adharma” is happening right in front of your eyes, you’re keeping quiet and doing nothing about it! Why is that so? What is stopping you from taking action against Duryodhana? Afterall who is this Duryodhana and what is his power as compared to yours? If you take the bow and arrow against him even for a second, Duryodhana would be nowhere to be seen, isn’t it? Yet, why are you keeping quiet and supporting a person who is growing up as an epitome of “Adharma”? If you’re doing such a thing, what is the use of being powerful physically and mentally? What kind of stance are you taking? Isn’t it detrimental to the kingdom’s growth and prosperity? If seniors like you are keeping mum when “Adharma” is openly happening, how will the kingdom and its people be happy? Aren’t you setting a bad example for people to do anything and everything and get away unscathed?” 

Saying thus, Vidura scolds Bhishmaachaarya left right and center! As Vidura asks multiple questions back to back like this, Bhishmaachaarya is very patient to hear all of them out! He is in tears. As Vidura completes his accord, Bhishmaachaarya replies thus, “Oh Vidura! Whatever you’re asking me are all valid! There’s no iota of doubt that you’re a learned scholar. There’s no doubt that you stand by “Dharma”. If there’s one person in this kingdom who stands by “Dharma” at crucial times, it is you – And only you! Today you’ve proved it to the entire world as well! However, you had asked me why I keep mum despite so many things happening around, isn’t it? It is because of my gratitude to all these people because of whom I’m in this state today. Just because they were helpful to me some day earlier, I’m tolerating all what these crooks are doing. I don’t have any other option. I can easily take the bow and arrow, gun them down and walk away easily! But just because they are my own family members and because of my relationship with King Dhirdiraashtra and his family, I’m keeping my mouth shut! I do not have any other option to choose!” 

As Bhishmaachaarya says thus, Vidura did not utter a single word back. He walks away angrily. In fact, this is the main reason why Bhishmaachaarya is never talked about with any regard by our “Aachaaryas”. In spite of Bhishmaachaarya having enormous physical and mental capabilities as Vidura just explained, the “Aachaaryas” and “Aalwars” do not give any sort of respect to him. We’ve to also remember that the famous “Vishnu Sahasranama” is also going to be given by this same Bhishmaachaarya. Even then, he doesn’t get the due respect that he’s supposed to! This is the same with Karna also – Just because Duryodhana helped him at some point in time, he wanted to be a loyal servant to Duryodhana all the time! Even when Bhagawan Krishna wanted Karna to switch sides and ditch Duryodhana, he was only standing by Duryodhana’s “Adharma”, wasn’t he? This is where Karna, although being a good and a genuine person at heart, ended up getting a bad reputation. Whatever maybe the cause, if one ditches everybody and everyone and comes towards Bhagawan, when He Himself gives a call, this person is Bhagawan’s true devotee! Vibhishana did this during the Ramayana and he is revered and respected by the “Aachaaryas” and “Aalwars”. When Vibhishana knew that there wasn’t any option to mend Ravana’s ways, he immediately switched over to Bhagawan Rama isn’t it? Thus, even though being a Raakshasa, he obtained Bhagawan Rama’s divine companionship. This is what is expected from a devotee and this is where both Bhishmaachaarya and Karna failed miserably, even though both of them got enormous opportunities from none other than Bhagawan Krishna Himself to walk the path of “Dharma”! 

So for today, let us understand until this point, and let us wait till the next episode to continue to witness what happened to the Paandavas on the other side of the river Ganges! Stay tuned! 🙂