The Indian Dharma

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna’s befitting reply to Yudishtra’s concern. As we’ve seen Yudishtra is getting concerned about whether he would still be walking the path of “Dharma” if the war takes place and if thousands of people are killed in it. Yudishtra is still prepared to renounce everything and go back to the forest, if this would mean saving the lives of everyone, including those in the Kaurava clan. However, Bhagawan Krishna is firm on the thought that this war is inevitable and it has to take place. He explains once again to Yudishtra that inspite talking so much to Duryodhana, he is not willing to lend his ears to Bhagawan’s words. Except Vidura and Sanjaya, nobody in Hastinapura is ready to walk out of Duryodhana’s fold, which shows that all of them including the likes of Bhishmachaarya, Guru Dhronachaarya, Sage Kripachaarya, etc. are in a way favouring Duryodhana. They might outwardly and mildly register their opposition to what Duryodhana is doing, but it is not on an impactful scale, isn’t it? We’ve seen this even during the infamous gambling episode wherein except Vidura, none of them raised their voice against Duryodhana’s atrocities. This cannot continue on and on, isn’t it? Moreover, Bhagawan also reminds Yudishtra that as a “Kshatrya” prince, it is his duty to protect his people from “Adharma”. If not for anything else, atleast for the benefit of the people and the kingdom, Yudishtra has to fight the war! 

As Bhagawan says thus, Arjuna also has a bit to add. Arjuna says thus, “Oh brother! Please understand one thing very clearly – “Dharma” is not merely sacrificing everytime! If there’s a cause, we’ve to fight to uphold the “Dharma”! All of us have seen how Duryodhana took advantage of our compassion and sacrifice till today for so many years. If I would have got an opportunity, I would have thrashed Duryodhana on that very day when Draupati was molested publicly. Duryodhana has to pay a heavy price for that episode! Hence, as Bhagawan opines, it is our duty to fight the war with Duryodhana for the sake of “Dharma”!” 

As Arjuna says thus, Bhagawan looks on and laughs within Himself a bit! Bhagawan Krishna thinks thus, “Oh wow! Look at this Arjuna! How boldly he is talking now! Let me see if this same courage continues when the war is going to begin!” 🙂 Bhagawan Krishna thinks so because, within another few more episodes, we’re going to witness this same Arjuna put down his bow and arrow and start crying that he is not interested in fighting this war! 🙂 But for now, Arjuna is also motivating Yudishtra to go for the war without any doubts. With all their inputs thus, Yudishtra firmly decides that he is going to go ahead with the war and of course, Bhagawan Krishna is always by their side! 

Meanwhile, as this happens at Kurukshetra, Duryodhana is busy nominating his leaders for the army. He appoints Bhishmachaarya as the main “Senapati” (Commander in chief). Just like Yudishtra, Duryodhana also knows the intricacies of warfare and he too splits his army into several sections. We’ve already seen that Duryodhana’s army is quite larger as compared to Yudishtra’s. While Yudishtra’s army has severn “Akshauhinis”, Duryodhana’s army has eleven! So we can imagine the magnitude of the battle that is going to take place now at Kurukshetra! Planning out everything thus, Duryodhana and his army marches towards Kurukshetra and start setting up temporary tents for all of them to reside. 

Now, as everything is being set up, Duryodhana meets Bhishmachaarya personally and requests him to formally take over as the “Senapati” of the army. Bhishmachaarya accepts it, however, with a condition! So for today, let us understand up to this point, and in the next episode, we shall witness what is Bhishmachaarya’s condition to Duryodhana, if he has to take over as “Senapati”! Stay tuned for an important accord! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the preparations for the war afoot on both sides. Yudishtra and Co. have successfully mobilised their army at Kurukshetra and this literally sends shockwaves and shivers to Duryodhana. Going by the news that Yudishtra is getting ready for the marquee battle, Duryodhana too quickly gets his acts together and commences his preparations. In the meanwhile, we’ve also witnessed Yudishtra having a doubt whether he would be walking the path of “Dharma” or not, if this battle happens. Hence, he requests Bhagawan Krishna to sort out his doubts. We should understand here that Yudishtra is not scared of fighting a war. The fear that Yudishtra has is pertaining to “Dharma”. His question is very simple – Whether he is fighting this war for the cause of “Dharma” or not. This is because, Yudishtra knows that this war is something that is going to cause mass destruction and a major disaster to his entire family! If the Paandavas have to win this war, it would mean that the entire set of Kaurava brothers (100 sons of King Dhritarashtra) would be killed! Hence, Yudishtra’s doubt is whether this would be right on his path to destroy or be a reason to destroy the entire Kaurava clan! 

As Yudishtra asks with a lot of concern, Bhagawan Krishna has to reply to Yudishtra now. He replies thus, “Oh Yudishtra! You’ve asked a very important question and I also understand that your concern is very genuine. I’ve tried my best to talk and convince Duryodhana. But that “Dhur-Atma” (Wicked person) is totally unprepared to listen even to a single word of mine. Moreover, Duryodhana is in such a state that if anyone talks against him, he would finish them off. He had the audacity to show his wrath on me also, knowing very well that he would end up in a major blunder if he did so. Moreover, if Duryodhana is like this, Karna is even worse. As a good friend, what should Karna do to Duryodhana? He should correct Duryodhana and mend his ways when he strays from the path of “Dharma”, isn’t it? Karna, as all of us know, is a very scholarly person and he knows all the intricacies of “Dharma”. Inspite of being that way, he hasn’t taken even a single step to educate Duryodhana, and this is quite sad. It is highly unfortunate that Karna is rallying behind Duryodhana in all the “Adharmic” acts that he is performing! I’ve spoken to Karna and tried educating him, but that has also gone in vain!” 

Bhagawan Krishna continues thus, “Oh Yudishtra! Even if Karna doesn’t listen to my words, what is wrong with Bhishmachaarya and Guru Dhronachaarya? Why are they rallying behind Duryodhana? Don’t they know the difference between “Dharma” and “Adharma” even after so many years of living in this world? Atleast they should be able to do something in this isn’t it? If they are not able to convince Duryodhana, why are they rallying behind him hopelessly? They should have ideally walked out! Moreover, Oh Yudishtra! Please think of this – When that infamous gambling game was happening, at any stage did either Bhishmachaarya or Guru Dhronachaarya open their mouths and talk a single word against Duryodhana or Ducchaasana? Do you know what kind of a blunder they have done? Is this expected from seniors like them who boast of high reputation?” 

Saying thus, Bhagawan Krishna also reminds Yudishtra about his “Raaja Dharma too. He says thus, “Oh Yudishtra! Please think in this angle too – Leave alone all the mistakes made by them. How do you think a kingdom will prosper if it is ruled by crooks like Duryodhana and the others? How will “Dharma” prosper in such a kingdom? You may be gracious enough to sacrifice the kingdom, but for whom and for what? If one Draupati was insulted by Duryodhana in the public courtroom on that fateful day, imagine what will happen to all the women in the kingdom if Duryodhana takes over as a king? Do you want this to happen to your kingdom and your people? Your “Raaja-Dharma” should be focused on the welfare of your people isn’t it? Hence, isn’t it your duty to fight for your people and protect them from this impending crisis? So Yudishtra! You’ve to fight for “Dharma” and that should be your sole motto! Do not worry about the impending disaster of killing thousands of people. Think of the disaster if Duryodhana rules the kingdom with “Adharma”! Hence, please do not have any doubts in your mind and let us continue with the preparations!” 

Saying thus, Bhagawan Krishna consoles Yudishtra and with this, Yudishtra gets the required boost and motivation to go ahead with the war. If Bhagawan Krishna has given the green signal, what more is left? So for today, let us understand up to this point and in the next episode we shall continue this discussion further! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the Paandava army swinging into action as they start advancing towards the famed Kurukshetra battlefield on the command given by Yudishtra. We’ve witnessed how the Paandavas, along with Bhagawan Krishna, set up the leadership at several levels in their army and also decide the place where the battle should take place. Kurukshetra is chosen amongst various choices of places, and Bhagawan Krishna decides to become the charioteer to Arjuna (Paartha-Saarathy). This shows how Bhagawan comes down to the level of His ardent devotees to serve them, as part of the pursuit towards the path of “Dharma”. Bhagawan takes this decision to be Arjuna’s charioteer not merely because Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna share an unshakable bond with each other, but mainly because Arjuna is going to fight for the cause of “Dharma” and Bhagawan has to play a significant role in it. 

Thus, as time and days progress, every “Akshauhini” of the Paandava army commences its journey towards Kurukshetra. Each “Akshauhini” has approximately 60,000 elephants, 60,000 horses and lakhs of soldiers as part of it. Thus, if there are seven “Akshauhinis” like this, we can imagine the magnitude of the army here. Thus, as each “Akshauhini” reaches Kurukshetra, all of them start setting up tents. It’s a complete barren land isn’t it? Hence, there are no structures and houses for everyone to reside. Thus, tents are being set up for everyone to stay, and with this, the Paandava army gets somewhat settled at Kurukshetra. Meanwhile, the news that the Paandava army has reached Kurukshetra reaches Duryodhana and Co. Immediately Duryodhana thinks thus, “Oh wow! They’re much quicker than us! We’ve not even started our preparation for the war!” 

Thus, Duryodhana quickly convenes a meeting with Sahuni, Ducchaasana, Karna, Bhishmachaarya, etc. and plans out the strategies. Duryodhana has eleven “Akshauhinis” of army with him! We’ve seen that the Paandavas have seven, now here we’re witnessing that Duryodhana has eleven! Similar to what Yudishtra planned, Duryodhana also splits his army into eleven, with one person being the commander in chief for each “Akshauhini” of the army. As Duryodhana plans thus, in the meanwhile, Yudishtra has a thought in mind – “Why shouldn’t we try one more time to convince Duryodhana to change his stance? Is this war inevitable? Can this war be prevented atleast now?” 

With this thought, Yudishtra slowly approaches Bhagawan Krishna with folded hands. Tears roll down Yudishtra’s eyes, however, he controls himself. Yudishtra bows down to Bhagawan and asks thus, “Oh Bhagawan Krishna! I know that I might be asking a foolish question here, but I couldn’t hold myself back. Please tell me one thing – Are we doing the right thing? Is it correct on our part to fight with my own brothers of Duryodhana, etc., my own Guru Dhronachaarya and my own grandfather Bhishmachaarya? What if this war ends up in a huge disaster wherein our entire family would get wiped out? If that happens, what do we do? By doing this, will I end up going to the “Naraka Lokha”? Leave me alone – What about my forefathers and ancestors? Will they also end up the same fate as me in the “Naraka Lokha” for all the massacres that I’m going to do?What if my entire generation gets destroyed because of this? Hence, Bhagawan Krishna! I’m feeling scared – Am I doing a big blunder by opting for the war? Is a kingdom really essential for me? Just to attain a kingdom, should I destroy my entire family and my next generation as well? Even now it is not too late! Oh Bhagawan Krishna! If you still feel that I’ve to put all these weapons down and go to the forest, I shall be ready to do it. I’m prepared to sacrifice my kingdom if that would save thousands of lives. I’ve in fact done that for the past thirteen years, and it is nothing new for me to do today. However, tomorrow if I’ve to bear an insult against my name, I would not be able to handle it. I do not want my next generations of people to abuse me saying that Yudishtra was someone who is completely “Anti-Dharma”, and he is the one who is responsible for the massacre of the entire “Bharata-Vamsa”. Oh Bhagawan Krishna! Even now it is not too late! We’ve not announced a war yet! We’ve not sent out the war cry still! We still have an opportunity to resurrect. Maybe if you feel that I should personally go to Duryodhana and talk with him, I’m ready to do it! Even if I’ve to go back to Viraata Desha now, I’m ready to go. I do not have any ego that would haunt me that I’m a coward. If this is “Dharma” according to you, I’m prepared to go to any extent to execute it, but if we commence the war and then look back, we cannot go back at that point in time, isn’t it? Hence Bhagawan! Please advise me on what I should do!”

We can see here as to how Yudishtra is concerned. So for this, Bhagawan has to reply, isn’t it? We shall wait till the next episode to witness an important reply from Bhagawan Krishna! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna motivating Yudishtra and Co. to start preparing for the inevitable and an impending war with Duryodhana to retrieve Indraprastha from him. Accordingly thus, Yudishtra and the others start planning out their army and we’ve witnessed details of the same at a broader level. The entire army is a 7-Akshauhini army with each key person in Yudishtra’s cabinet bringing in one “Akshauhini” of his army inside. Subsequently, even though Yudishtra is the leader for the entire group, a “Senapathi” needs to be nominated, and as per Bhagawan Krishna’s suggestion, Drishtadhyumna takes over as the “Senapathi” (Leader of the entire army on the battlefield). Thus, the leadership as far as the army is concerned is decided and now it is time to get into action in terms of further preparation. 

Now, as mentioned earlier, it is time for action. Leaders of each “Akshauhini” collect all their army men, horses, elephants, weapons, etc. and assemble at the entrance of the Viraata Desha. Thus, within a short span of time, all the seven “Akshauhinis” of the Paandava army are ready. Now, it is time for Yudishtra to give the instruction for the army to start its journey towards the battlefield. Meanwhile, the core team comprising of Yudishtra and his four brothers, along with Bhagawan Krishna, Saatyaki, and the others once again convene a meeting to decide on the exact location where the battle will take place. Amongst all the places that are discussed, “Kurukshetra” for the first time, is selected by Bhagawan Krishna in consent with all the others for the battle to occur. All of us know this place called Kurukshetra, don’t we? This place can still be worshipped today, which is approximately 50-60 kilometres away from Delhi, which is the national capital of our Bhaarata Desha. 

Thus, as the place gets decided, it is now time for Yudishtra to call the orders! All of them take their respective positions, including Bhagawan Krishna, who decides to play the role of a charioteer to Arjuna! As we’ve mentioned earlier, the Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna duo is nothing but the Nara-Narayana duo of the Bhadrinatha Kshetra, and these two can never be separated from each other. Hence, of all the five brothers in the Paandava camp, Bhagawan Krishna wants to be closely associated with Arjuna, due to this long-standing bonding between the two. Thus, Bhagawan Krishna decides to help Arjuna in all ways possible by reducing His level to a mere charioteer! We can see here how Bhagawan reduces His level and serves His ardent devotees. All of us know that Bhagawan Krishna is the mighty king of Dwaraka and if He has to come to this level, we can also understand the level of devotion that Arjuna has towards Bhagawan. Moreover, we’ve witnessed in our earlier episodes that Bhagawan Krishna had assured Arjuna that He would always be by Arjuna’s side at all times, especially during the war, however, He would not take part in the fight and would not lift any weapon. Now, by becoming Arjuna’s charioteer, Bhagawan Krishna honours His assurance that He had given to Arjuna! 

So for today, let us understand up to this point and we’re now witnessing that the Paandava army is ready for action! We shall continue this discussion forward in the upcoming episode as well to understand what is happening on the other side! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna putting forth a big conclusion that war is increasingly inevitable, and Yudishtra along with his brothers should start getting ready for it. He replies to Saatyaki and the others that Duryodhana has gone even to the extent of insulting and disobeying senior members of King Dhritarashtra’s cabinet such as Bhishmachaarya, Guru Dhronachaarya, Sage Kripachaarya amongst the others, leave alone Sanjaya and Vidura. Nobody seems to have the capability to convince Duryodhana and put him on the track towards “Dharma”. Thus, given this situation, Bhagawan Krishna asserts that all the options including “Saama”, “Dhaana” and “Bhedha” are exhausted. Now the only methodology that is remaining is the “Dhanda-Ubhaayam”, which literally means “taking the stick in hand”. This directly pertains to the option of going for an all-out assault on Duryodhana and Co. in the battlefield. 

Thus, as this decision is being taken, we come to the end of the “Bhagawad-Yaana Parva” under the main Udyoga Parva. Subsequently we only have a few small “Upa-Parvas”, with which, we would conclude the Udyoga Parva, and after that, we shall straightaway step into the Bhishma Parva, wherein the battle is going to start at Kurukshetra! So we’re almost there near the beginning of the war and before that, let us witness these small Upa-Parvas as we move on. The next Upa-Parva that we’re going to witness now is the “Sainya-Niryaana Parva”. Thus, as the war has become inevitable, both the Paandava and the Kaurava camps are now getting into action to mobilize their respective armies. Now we’re going to witness all those people who are opting to be on Duryodhana’s side as well as Yudishtra’s side. The Paandava army is a seven-Akshauhini army. We’ve already witnessed the arithmetic behind an “Akshauhini” and I’m not going into the mathematical details here. We shall now straightaway go into the details of the army. For Yudishtra, Saatyaki brings one “Akshauhini” of the army. King Viraata brings the second “Akshauhini”. Subsequently, King Drupata (Father of Draupati) brings the third “Akshauhini”. Similarly, there are several other small kings from the nearby kingdoms who bring the remaining four “Akshauhinis” of the army. Thus, in addition, there are several lakhs of warriors getting ready on the Yudishtra’s side and all of them are well-prepared and well-trained to face any eventuality in case of a war. 

Now, for each “Akshauhini” of the army, there should be one leader, isn’t it? Hence, Yudishtra and Co. plan this out in a beautiful way and this highlights the quality of leadership that Yudishtra has in him. Saatyaki, King Drupata, King Viraata, Shikhandi, Drishtadhyumna and Bheemasena are selected to be the leaders for each of the “Akshauhinis” in the army. In similar lines, as the leaders are selected, there should be one Commander-in-chief (Senapathi) to be selected, isn’t it? For this, each one comes up with different suggestions. Nakula comes up with the name of Drishtadhyumna. Sahadeva comes up with Saatyaki’s nomination. Similarly, each of the Paandava brothers suggest one name as per their judgement and understanding. Now it is up to Yudishtra to take the final decision isn’t it? What does he do? He immediately turns to Bhagawan Krishna for His opinion! Bhagawan Krishna explains thus, “Oh Yudishtra and Co.! I thought of several things that would be happening during the commencement of the war and also what would be happening during the course of the war. With all those incidents that are about to unfold, I think Drishtadhyumna should be the right person to be the “Senapathi” (Commander in chief) for our entire army. Of course, all your other suggestions and nominations are perfectly valid, but with the forthcoming incidents that are going to unfold, I feel that Drishtadhyumna would be the right candidate to be the Senapathi for our army!” 

Thus, the leadership at every level in the Paandava army is decided, and for today, let us understnad up to this point. We shall wait till the next episode to continue this discussion further! Stay tuned for an important and an interesting accord! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna sharing His experience of visiting Hastinapura and Yudishtra once again expressing his sceptics upon why Bhagawan wanted to visit Hastinapura, knowing the fact that Duryodhana would insult Him. In this manner, Yudishtra has a genuine doubt whether Bhagawan Krishna spoke whatever they had planned earlier prior to His visit, or did He say something that He wanted to deliberately talk about! For this, Bhagawan Krishna burst out laughing and assured Yudishtra that He had spoken only those points which they had discussed earlier. Bhagawan Krishna finally concludes that there’s no point in talking to Duryodhana henceforth, as he is not prepared to listen to even a single word of wisdom. So, why to waste time with such a person? Instead, Bhagawan Krishna advises Yudishtra to commence his preparations for the war, which is increasingly becoming inevitable with every passing day. 

As Bhagawan says thus, Saatyaki and the Viraata king ask Him – “Oh Bhagawan! We perfectly understand your points and we also know that Duryodhana is incorrigible. It is not surprising to us that Duryodhana has insulted you. However, what is the opinion of the seniors like Bhishmachaarya and Guru Dhronachaarya? Did you meet Kunthi Devi? What is her opinion on this? Did you meet Karna? What is he saying? What are the opinions of scholars like Vidura and Sanjaya? Even if Duryodhana would be on a rampaging mode, we’re sure that these people will be trying to walk the path of “Dharma”. So what is their opinion?” 

As Saatyaki and the Viraata King ask thus, Bhagawan continues His accord thus, “Oh Saatyaki! I’m very sorry to say this – Duryodhana has even gone to the extent of insulting the senior-most Bhishmachaarya amidst the public courtroom. The moment I advised Duryodhana to give atleast five villages to Yudishtra, Bhishmachaarya immediately stood up and supported my argument. Bhishmachaarya requested Duryodhana to consider this proposal, for which, Duryodhana openly insulted Bhishmachaarya to be a coward and that he doesn’t have the willpower in him to fight Yudishtra down! If such is the case with Bhishmachaarya, Guru Dhronachaarya too met with the same fate! Thus, it is evident that Duryodhana is walking towards the path of destruction as none of the words of “Dharma” are entering into his head! I also spoke to Karna and tried to convince him in joining Yudishtra’s camp. Karna refused the offer as he prefers his friendship with Duryodhana to be far superior than fighting for the cause of “Dharma”. Karna is not realizing the fact that deserting Duryodhana and coming here should be his “Dharma” at the moment, and instead, he considers this to be an act of opportunism! Hence, there’s no point in talking to Karna as well!” 

Bhagawan continues further thus, “Oh Saatyaki! I met Kunthi Devi on my way back. Kunthi Devi is extremely concerned about the welfare of all her sons and she feels bad that she has to live separated from them for so many years. I assured Kunthi Devi that I’m with Yudishtra and Co. and requested her not to worry. Finally, Kunthi Devi explained her stance that Yudishtra should do whatever is the “Dharma” of a Kshatrya and he should never deviate from it. If there’s a compulsion to execute the “Dharma” of the Kshatrya, Yudishtra should never shy away from it! From this answer, it is evident that Kunthi Devi also believes that there’s no alternative to a war at this moment! Subsequently I met the scholarly Vidura and Sanjaya. Both of them clearly explained to me that they’ve tried inculcating the “Dharma” in King Dhritarashtra and Duryodhana, but till now they’ve failed in all their attempts. Perhaps it is fate that is preventing the father-son duo from understanding the reality and the impending disaster that they’re slowly moving towards!” 

Hence, by saying thus, Bhagawan concludes – “Oh Yudishtra! I’ve exhausted the modes of “Saama”, “Dhaanam” and “Bhedham”. Now the only option to go for is the “Dhanda-Ubhaayam”, which is nothing but the war! Hence, I think it is time that all of us get ready for the war, irrespective of whether we like it or not!” So for today, let us understand Bhagawan Krishna’s in-depth analysis of the current situation that is unfolding at Hastinapura and we shall continue this discussion forward in the next episode as well! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Bhagawan Krishna narrating His accord to Yudishtra and Co. on what happened and conspired at Hastinapura during His visit. He explains to Yudishtra as to how He was insulted in public by Duryodhana by digging a hole beneath His “Aasana” and by making Him fall into it. However, Bhagawan Krishna explains that these ploys do not affect Him in any way, as His purpose of visit is very clear – To try and establish “Dharma” through peace talks. However, since Duryodhana and his father King Dhritarashtra aren’t really prepared to change their course of actions any time soon, Bhagawan Krishna concludes that there’s no point in talking with them anymore, unless they themselves realize the gravity of danger that they’re heading into! 

As Bhagawan Krishna narrates His accord thus, Yudishtra and Co. are stunned! In fact, Yudishtra had anticipated this earlier that Bhagawan would be insulted by Duryodhana in some way or the other and this anticipation has come true! Because of this, Yudishtra and the Paandava brothers feel ashamed on one hand, and tears flow through their eyes on the other hand, out of frustration and grief that Bhagawan had to bear the insult on behalf of them! With a trembling voice, Yudishtra replies back to Bhagawan Krishna thus, “Oh Bhagawan! I do not know how to respond to this. It is extremely unfortunate that you had to bear the insult on behalf of me and my brothers. As I had said earlier, I cannot see you getting insulted by someone and this is why I was sceptical about you visiting Hastinapura. I knew this would happen. But tell me one thing – Did you speak whatever we discussed here before you started, or, did you speak something else whatever came to your mind? I’m asking this because the past history suggests that no matter whatever you discuss with someone to talk, you would never do that! You will only do or talk about whatever you feel like! Hence, I wanted to have a clarification from you on this!” 

As Yudishtra asks thus, Bhagawan Krishna bursts out laughing! Till that moment, the mood was extremely sober, but now when Yudishtra asks whether Bhagawan spoke as discussed or did He speak something on His own, not only Yudishtra, but the entire set of the Paandava brothers started laughing! They know how Bhagawan Krishna is an expert in lying to people and in playing tricks! Bhagawan Krishna on His part, replies to Yudishtra thus, “Oh my dear Yudishtra! Of course, I played tricks and pranks on people during my young and tender age. But currently I’m almost 70 years old. Do you think I’ll be praying the same kind of pranks on people today also? Of course, I spoke only whatever we discussed here before I left for Hastinapura! I spoke to Vidura. I spoke to Sanjaya. I spoke to your mother, Kunthi Devi. All were of the opinion that King Dhritarashtra and Duryodhana are incorrigible and my visit is only a mere waste of time. However, I had to do my duty, as promised to all of you. I’ve to stand by “Dharma”, isn’t it? Moreover, it is my duty to represent those people who stand for “Dharma” at all times! Hence, I just did my duty. Of course, I know that Duryodhana would insult me. What do you expect from a wicked person like Duryodhana to do when you talk about something that he doesn’t like? Do you expect him to favour you in any way? Or, do you expect him to give you the best of the best hospitality? Why do you even have an iota of doubt in your mind that Duryodhana will treat me nicely? In fact, Duryodhana wanted me to switch over to his side and he even tried his best to do that. The main purpose of laying the trap beneath my chair was to arrest me then and there and force me to come to his side. However, little did he know that he cannot do anything to me! I’m beyond all these stupid things and Duryodhana will never realize this in his lifetime! Hence, Oh Yudishtra! Please do not worry that I was insulted by Duryodhana, as it was clearly on expected lines. My opinion after the visit to Hastinapura is that all of us should start getting ready to face a war, which is increasingly becoming inevitable by the day! We should not waste any more time in doing these peace talks with Duryodhana, as there is little effect in doing so!” 

Saying thus, Bhagawan Krishna leaves it to Yudishtra to plan the next course of action from here on. As Bhagawan Krishna finishes His accord, the others in the courtroom start to give their opinions and for today, let us understand Bhagawan Krishna’s accord fully. We shall wait till the next episode to continue with this discussion forward! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Karna’s decisive answer to Kunthi Devi that no matter whatever happens, he is determined to fight on the side of Duryodhana, because Duryodhana was the one who came to his rescue at a time when Karna was insulted and rejected by everyone at Hastinapura. So, ditching Duryodhana at a crucial time is not “Dharma” according to Karna. Moreover, Karna also highlights Kunthi Devi’s “selfish attitude” of putting her dignity on priority and deserting her own child mercilessly. Karna questions Kunthi Devi as to why he should obey the words of a “selfish mother” who did not care about him all these years! Thus, with this, Kunthi Devi did not know what to talk further to Karna, as he was perfectly right in his questioning. Kunthi Devi leaves with tears in her eyes and as she departs, Karna gives her a boon – At any point in time, she will have five sons surviving at the end of the war. Even though Karna will fight against the five of them, he will not kill any of them. However, if the fight is against Arjuna, he would definitely go for the kill. Thus, the fifth son to be alive at the end of the war would either be Arjuna or Karna! Granting this boon, Karna sends Kunthi Devi off to Hastinapura. 

Meanwhile, Bhagawan Krishna makes His way back to Viraata Desha where Yudishtra and Co. are waiting eagerly for His arrival. As Bhagawan Krishna arrives, Yudishtra goes and receives Him with the protocol of hospitality and respect. Now all of them sit down to discuss the future course of action from here on. As Bhagawan settles down, Yudishtra asks thus, “Oh Bhagawan Krishna! Please narrate whatever happened at Hastinapura during your visit. Did you succeed in convincing Duryodhana and King Dhritarashtra? What is Duryodhana’s version? What is King Dhritarashtra saying? Did you meet the scholarly Vidura and Sanjaya? What did they say? How is Bhishmachaarya? What is his opinion? How is Guru Dhronachaarya? Is he for or against the war from happening?” As Yudishtra continues with his questions, Bhagawan Krishna patiently listens to everything and is now going to commence His reply to whatever Yudishtra has asked. 

Bhagawan says thus, “Oh Yudishtra! I spoke to Duryodhana and I tried my best to convince him. But the ill-fated and wicked Duryodhana rejected all my words and fumed with arrogance in front of everyone. Moreover, Duryodhana also went to the extent of insulting me in public amidst the entire courtroom! Do you know what he did to me? He had dug a huge hole beneath my “Aasana” and his plan was simple – When I sit on that “Aasana”, it would crash down into the hole and thereby I would be trapped! With this, he could arrest me and thereby bring me to his fold! Upon understanding this vicious ploy of Duryodhana, I got extremely angry and decided that there’s no point in talking or negotiating with Duryodhana henceforth. Hence, I decided that I should not stay there even for a minute more, and thus, made my way back to see all of you!” 

As Bhagawan Krishna explains thus, Yudishtra and Co. are stunned beyond words! For a moment none of them open their mouths to talk even a single word! They are completely taken aback by the fact that Bhagawan Krishna was insulted and it was Duryodhana who had the guts to go to this extent! However, calming down after a few moments, Yudishtra is now going to ask a very important question to Bhagawan Krishna, upon which, Bhagawan Krishna is going to burst out laughing! So what is this question? What made Bhagawan Krishna so amused with what Yudishtra is asking? Let us wait till the next episode and witness! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Karna expressing his concerns to Kunthi Devi as she tried convincing him to join Yudishtra’s camp. Karna expresses his anguish to Kunthi Devi that he was unattended to by anyone, except Duryodhana at all times when he was rejected by almost everyone in the Hastinapura kingdom. Moreover, Karna’s deep-hearted wounds aren’t going to heal so soon. He also blasts Kunthi Devi for being selfish in protecting her own dignity and respect all these years by going to the extent of disowning her own son! Isn’t this a grave mistake of Kunthi Devi? How can a mother have the heart to desert her new-born baby just because she has to protect her own dignity? Karna was a victim of this huge blunder of Kunthi Devi and for this, Karna asserts that he is never going to forgive her for this! Moreover, Karna’s birth story is still concealed and nobody except Bhagawan Krishna and Kunthi Devi know the truth behind this, isn’t it? Hence, if this story is disclosed to the Hastinapura people right now, what will their reaction be? How will Duryodhana react to it? All these start running in Karna’s mind and hence, he conveys his final decision that let things be the way they are right now. He’s not going to switch sides to satisfy his “opportunistic mother”! 

Adding to this accord thus, Karna finally concludes to Kunthi Devi – “Oh Mother! You may have disclosed my birth story to me today, but please understand that Bhagawan Krishna has already disclosed it to me earlier. I’m totally aware that the Arjuna and Bhagawan Krishna combination is something which nobody can breach in this world. If there is a war between “Dharma” and “Adharma” and if Bhagawan Krishna is going to take the side of “Dharma”, I’m sure there is no point in even discussing the end result of this war. Duryodhana’s side is going to face disaster for sure! However, since you’re requesting so much, I shall give you just one boon – As a mother, when the war comes to an end, you will definitely have five sons remaining. I will fight against all your five “legitimate sons” but will not kill anyone, except Arjuna if possible. My intense fight will only be against Arjuna. The remaining four brothers of Arjuna will definitely be safe and secure if they come to fight against me. I shall maybe win the battle against the four of them, but I shall not kill them. I assure you of this. However, when it comes to Arjuna, I shall go for the kill. If Arjuna wins and kills me, you will still have the fifth son (Arjuna) who will be alive at the end of the battle. If I kill Arjuna after winning over him, again your fifth son (Karna) will be alive at the end of the battle. This is the assurance I can give you. But in any case, you will have five of your sons intact after the war is over!” 

As Karna decisively says thus, Kunthi Devi doesn’t have much to say as she breaks into tears! She understands that she is the one who is at fault when it comes to Karna’s life. She shouldn’t have deserted her child like the way she did! This keeps haunting her as she slowly moves back to the Hastinapura palace. Meanwhile, Bhagawan Krishna quickly meets Vidura and apprises him of what will be the next strategic decision. Bhagawan Krishna says to Vidura thus, “Oh Vidura! It seems that there’s no other choice left! War is the only solution! Hence, let us prepare for the worst! Please tell King Dhritarashtra about this and see what his reaction is!” As Bhagawan Krishna gives this “encrypted message”, Vidura is quick enough to grasp the content of what Bhagawan is trying to convey. Thus, holding Vidura’s hands, Bhagawan Krishna gets into His chariot and bids farewell to Vidura by providing His divine “Anugraha” to him. 

Getting into His chariot thus, Bhagawan Krishna makes His way to Viraata Desha where Yudishtra and Co. are camping currently. As Bhagawan Krishna’s arrival is known to the Paandavas, all the five brothers run to the entrance of the city to receive Him with all the necessary protocols. Bhagawan Krishna thus makes His way into the Viraata Desha yet again and accepts the hospitality provided by Yudishtra and Co. as they receive Him. Thus, all of them settle down and an important discussion is going to commence now. Bhagawan Krishna is going to narrate whatever happened at Hastinapura during His visit, as Yudishtra is eager to listen to Bhagawan’s golden words of wisdom! So for today, let us also eagerly wait to understand what Bhagawan Krishna is going to talk to Yudishtra and we shall continue this important accord in the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Kunthi Devi trying to convince Karna to join the Yudishtra camp. However, Karna refuses Kunthi Devi’s request and decides to stick to his stance of standing with Duryodhana at this trying time of his. Moreover, Karna asks Kunthi Devi another important question, which seems to be a valid one too. Karna asks thus, “Oh Mother Kunthi Devi! Today you’re coming to me to talk on behalf of your son Yudishtra. But till yesterday, where were you? You were never to be seen anywhere in this picture. How come you’re suddenly having the motherly love and affection today and not for all these years? Just because your sons Yudishtra, Bheemasena and Arjuna are on my firing line, you’re trying to protect them by making me switch sides. Just because your sons’ lives are in danger from my arrows, you’re wanting me to switch sides. How selfish this attitude is! Thus, if you would have had that affection really within you, you wouldn’t have waited for almost 35-40 years to disclose this truth to me that you are my mother and Yudishtra and the others are my own siblings. If you really had that affection in you, you would have come forward to protect me at a time when I was repeatedly insulted by everyone here!” 

Karna continues his accord further thus, “Oh Kunthi Devi! You’re thinking that I’m happy staying with Duryodhana, aren’t you? But do you even know that I do not have a single iota of respect here from anybody else except Duryodhana! Do you even know that Guru Dhronachaarya repeatedly fights with me for even small things? If tomorrow there’s a war and if I’m on the battlefield, Guru Dhronachaarya will not even stand near me and fight! Such is the gross disrespect I have here. If Guru Dhronachaarya is like this, Bhishmachaarya is one step further! He has even taken a pledge that only himself or Karna should be on the battlefield while the war is going on! Is this the way learned and senior people would give respect to a warrior, who is ready to give his life for Duryodhana’s cause? Where were you when all these people were taking such pledges to desert and isolate me? Now please do not tell me that you are not aware of all this. You’re very much in the Hastinapura palace and you should be knowing all this. If your motherly affection is so true, you should have come forward and defended me at that point in time. You should come and disclosed the truth boldly in front of Bhishmachaarya and Guru Dhronachaarya that I’m none other than your son, and not a charioteer’s son. When I was badly discriminated against for no fault of mine, you never came to my rescue, but now, with what face are you coming and convincing me to join Yudishtra? Isn’t this so unfair? What wrong did I do in my life to undergo such trials and tribulations one after the other? Before you came, Bhagawan Krishna came to me and told the same thing to me. If He had so much affection towards me, why didn’t He come to me and tell me this earlier? Why did He wait for so long to disclose this to me? Wasn’t I accessible to Him? Or rather, hasn’t He met me earlier too? Why are you people fooling me like this? Hence, my stance is very clear – I will continue to back Duryodhana, even though I know that he is walking the path of “Adharma” and all of us are going to die in the war if it takes place! So please do not waste your time in convincing me with such stupid things!” 

Saying thus, Karna decisively conveys his decision with tears flowing through his eyes. In reality, Karna is one such character in the Mahabharata who was targeted and sidelined by almost everybody in the Hastinapura first family for no fault of mine. So for today, let us understand up to this point and in the next episode, we shall witness the continuation of what happened next! Stay tuned! 🙂