The Indian Dharma

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the “Purohita” being sent by Bhagawan Krishna, the Viraata King, etc. to the Duryodhana camp. This attempt is to broker peace between the Kaurava and the Paandava camps. The first strategy from Yudishtra and Co. is to understand the mindset of Duryodhana and to gauge the gravity of the situation. As the “Purohita” sets off, Bhagawan Krishna has a special piece of advice for him – ‘Be courteous with Duryodhana, but be firm!” Accordingly, the stage is set for a rocking exchange of words at Hastinapura. Meanwhile, Arjuna doesn’t have even an iota of hope that Duryodhana would budge to their requests, and hence, he commences his preparation for the war right away! As part of his preparation, he decides to once again seek help and guidance from Bhagawan Krishna and decides that he would go all the way to Dwaraka for this purpose. 

Now we come to a very interesting phase in the entire Mahabharata story. As Arjuna decides to proceed towards Dwaraka, Yudishtra approves thus – “Oh Arjuna! OK! Go ahead! We shall not entirely depend upon peace talks. Simultaneously we shall commence our war preparations as well!” With this, Arjuna sets off to Dwaraka! Meanwhile, the news that Arjuna is on his way to Dwaraka somehow reaches Duryodhana! Thus, Duryodhana too decides that he would go and meet Bhagawan Krishna to seek help and guidance on how to prepare for the war. Duryodhana’s aim here is to somehow neutralize Arjuna’s efforts to bring Bhagawan Krishna to his side. This clearly shows that Duryodhana is not at all ready for any kind of peace talks of any sort! Thus, Duryodhana commences his journey from Hastinapura to Dwaraka precisely at the same time as Arjuna starts from Viraata Desha. However, as fate would have it, Duryodhana reaches first! Perhaps, Arjuna has a much longer distance to cover and he takes his own time to reach. 

Thus, as Duryodhana reaches Dwaraka, he straightaway enters into the magnificent Dwaraka palace to meet Bhagawan Krishna. However, to his surprise, Bhagawan Krishna is fast asleep! Perhaps, Duryodhana had arrived just when Bhagawan had gone to sleep! But is Bhagawan sleeping? Not at all! This is a trick that Bhagawan Krishna is unleashing here, and Duryodhana clearly falls into His trap! Because of his “Ahankara” (Arrogance), Duryodhana goes and sits near Bhagawan Krishna’s pillow where He has placed His face. As Duryodhana takes his seat, Arjuna arrives at Dwaraka. Upon seeing Bhagawan Krishna fast asleep, Arjuna politely offers his prayers to Him and quietly takes his seat near Bhagawan’s divine lotus feet! 

Now, when Bhagawan Krishna wakes up, who is He going to see first? Arjuna or Duryodhana? Who is that person upon which Bhagawan’s “Nethra-Kataaksha” (Divine look) is going to fall upon? Arjuna or Duryodhana? It is a widely known fact that if a person receives Bhagawan’s “Nethra-Kataaksha), his / her sins are going to be washed away instantaneously! Now, this is a crucial moment, isn’t it? So for today, let us understand up to this point, and in tomorrow’s episode, we’re going to witness a “cracker of a contest” here! Who is going to receive Bhagawan’s “Nethra-Darshan” first? Stay tuned for an interesting update! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed King Drupada’s accord on Yudishtra’s future course of action. We’ve already witnessed Bhagawan Krishna commencing the proceedings of the discussion, along with Balarama and Saatyaki expressing their opinions as well. Now, the decision is clear – To first start with peace talks, and if it doesn’t work, maybe war should be the only other option to counter Duryodhana’s arrogance. Hence, it is decided that a “Purohita” (Brahmana Rishi) is to be sent to Duryodhana’s Hastinapura to initiate the peace talks and to sense what is Duryodhana’s mindset. The Viraata King also accepts the decision and he selects the right “Purohita” for the job. Bhagawan Krishna is now going to give some important advice to the “Purohita” who is going to go to Hastinapura. 

Bhagawan Krishna says thus, “Oh Great Rishi! I hereby entrust you with this important job of brokering peace with Duryodhana. While talking to Duryodhana, talk in a sweet manner with all the possible kind-hearted words that you can muster at that point. Please make sure that Duryodhana is comforted with your kind words of wisdom and advice. However, at the same time, it doesn’t mean that you’re too kind to Duryodhana that you would end up accepting whatever he says! Yudishtra should never be a loser here. This is something that you need to balance! You’ve to be kind, but at the same time, you’ve to be firm enough with your demands that you’re making on behalf of Yudishtra. Duryodhana should not feel that you’re demanding something too big, however, he should also not feel that he can take you for a ride! You’ve to convey the clear message to Duryodhana that we are not interested in a disastrous war, but at the same time, we want Yudishtra’s due share of his Indraprastha kingdom. However, if Yudishtra is not getting what he is due to get, we wouldn’t be shy of opting for the option of war as well!” 

Saying thus, Bhagawan Krishna concludes His important accord and prepares to leave back to Dwaraka. The plan is very clear – To wait till the “Purohita” conveys the message to Duryodhana and comes back with Duryodhana’s message. In the meanwhile, Bhagawan Krishna decides that it is a long time since he visited His Dwaraka kingdom and hence, as the Purohita gets into the chariot to go towards Indraprastha, Bhagawan Krishna too prepares Himself to leave for Dwaraka. As the “Purohita” reaches Indraprastha, he frames the entire conversation in his mind before he commences his accord with Duryodhana. He wants to meet King Dhritarashtra first and then go to Duryodhana, with the intention that atleast now King Dhritarashtra should come out of his “Putra-Vatsalya” and support the cause of “Dharma”. Let us see what happens there in a while. 

Meanwhile, on the other side, as the “Purohita” leaves for Indraprastha, Yudishtra and the others start conversing with each other. King Drupada, the Viraata King, Utthara Kumara and the others are also part of this discussion. Arjuna gets up and talks thus, “Oh kings! I have full confidence on our “Purohita” to deliver upon what Bhagawan Krishna has advised. However, I’m not very sure if Duryodhana would budge to his request. All of us know what kind of a person Duryodhana is! Hence, even if we’re going on the route of peace-talks, I’m thinking that we should be prepared to face a war anytime from now. Even though there will be several rounds of peace attempts being made in the future, it is also important that we commence our preparations for a full-fledged war with Duryodhana. I do not know how much would King Dhritarashtra support our cause, as he is only interested in his son’s growth and development. Hence, I feel that we should once again approach Bhagawan Krishna to seek His divine intervention and help in this regard. Maybe we can go to Dwaraka and ask Him the way forward, if we’ve to get ready for a war! Of course, Bhagawan Krishna has just now left for Dwaraka. However, I feel that it would be due respect only if we go to Him and seek help!” 

As Arjuna expresses his opinion thus, Yudishtra too agrees for the same, and for today, let us understand up to this point. We shall wait till the next episode to witness what happened next! Stay tuned! 🙂  

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Saatyaki’s extensive accord to justify that Yudishtra is not at fault at all. This comes as Balarama tries to fix Yudishtra for all the mess that had happened in the courtroom at Hastinapura pertaining to the infamous gambling game. Saatyaki is now all over Balarama for his remarks that Yudishtra is at fault for accepting King Dhritarashtra’s invite for playing the game. How can Yudishtra be at fault if Duryodhana is playing the game with a proxy and not by himself, when Yudishtra has to fend for himself alone? Moreover, accepting the invite for playing the gambling game is as per the “Raaja Dharma” and Yudishtra had followed it. The invite came from a king and Yudishtra had no other option but to go for it. Also, at that point in time, Yudishtra was completely unaware that there was a planned and a concerted agenda behind the gambling game and it was not on a “friendly” basis as proposed by the king. The agenda was clear – Yudishtra being robbed off his kingdom through this illegal method! Now, Saatyaki’s question is very clear – Given all these incidents, should Yudishtra be held guilty or should the perpetrators of this crime be held responsible and accountable? 

We can also analyze this entire conversation by comparing the two Yugas – Dvaapara Yuga and Kali Yuga. Whatever Saatyaki and the others are talking about right now, is in the Dvaapara Yuga, wherein thought processes, intents and actions are taken into account while deciding which is “Dharma” and which is not! However, nowadays in the Kali Yuga, we go by “fact-finding” and “evidence”! In those days during the Dvaapara Yuga, intent, attitude, thought process were more important while delivering justice. However, today, none of us have the capability to understand what the other person is thinking and his / her attitude, intent, etc. Only if there is prima-facie evidence, we can conclude that something has happened. For instance, if we go to courts today, what happens? If a murder has happened and if someone is being fixed for it, how does it happen? Only if there is credible evidence that this person has committed the crime, will he / she be convicted by the court. Else, even if the person has really committed the crime, and if there is no prima-facie evidence against him / her, this person can easily be acquitted by the court of law! But, during the Dvaapara Yuga, what are we seeing here? The person’s nature, intent, attitude and thought process are prima-facie for concluding whether he / she acts according to “Dharma” or not. Here, as Saatyaki explains his stance, he doesn’t look at the actions that happened on the ground (gambling game). Instead, he looks at Yudishtra’s intent, which is completely focused towards every aspect of “Dharma”. This is the key difference that we’re seeing, isn’t it? 

As Saatyaki finishes his accord, it is now King Drupada’s turn to talk. King Drupada, as we might remember, is Draupati’s father. He says thus, “Oh people! I too feel that Bhagawan Krishna and Saatyaki are reasonable in what they are saying. Somehow, I do not know why Balarama is talking in favour of Duryodhana who is an epitome of “Adharma”. However, in front of the “Chakra-Aayudha” of Bhagawan Krishna and the “Gaandeepa” of Arjuna, who in this world can even stand before them? Hence, Balarama’s argument of siding towards Duryodhana is not acceptable at all! I guess, we shall go with what Bhagawan Krishna said earlier – Let us send an experienced “Purohita” (Brahmana Rishi) to the Hastinapura palace and let him explain our stance to them very clearly. We shall see what their reaction is, and then plan the further course of action. I’m all for peace and amicable settlement. However, if Duryodhana is not prepared to co-operate, I’m also ready to wage a battle against him along with Yudishtra and Co.!” 

So the plan is made – A “Purohita” is going to be sent as a messenger from Yudishtra’s side to Duryodhana to convey the message. So now we’ve to wait for Duryodhana’s response and we shall understand till this point for today. We shall witness the continuation of this important discussion in the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂 

We’re in the midst of witnessing an important discussion and deliberation that is going on at the Viraata Desha courtroom, wherein Bhagawan Krishna, Balarama, Saatyaki, etc. have assembled to deliberate upon Yudishtra’s future course of action. Now that the thirteen-year-period of the “Vana-Vaasam” and “Agnyaata-Vaasam” is over, how should Yudishtra approach Duryodhana? Should he approach through peace or through war, to stake claim for his Indraprastha kingdom? Bhagawan Krishna, as usual, gives a diplomatic answer by saying that He is ready for both means! However, Balarama contradicts Bhagawan Krishna by saying that peace is the only option because Yudishtra too is at fault of accepting the invitation to play the gambling game, which is against the “Raaja-Dharma”. Saatyaki fumes and contradicts Balarama’s view point and the discussion gets deeper and more interesting! In our yesterday’s episode, we had also witnessed why Balarama is often seen taking sides towards Duryodhana. We’ve seen that Balarama is the “Guru” of Duryodhana in the “Gadhaa-Yuddham” and this is something that prevents Balarama from taking a perspective favouring “Dharma”. 

Moving on further thus, Saatyaki continues: “Oh Balarama! You’re squarely putting the blame on Yudishtra for taking part in the gambling game, aren’t you? Now think for a moment – When the invitation was sent by King Dhritarashtra, what did Yudishtra say? Did he say straightaway that he is interested to take part? No! Yudishtra first accepted the fact that even though he likes playing the gambling game, he doesn’t know the nuances as to how to play it. Initially thus, Yudishtra declined the offer. But however, since Vidura repeatedly invited him by saying that it is the king’s invitation and cannot be denied, Yudishtra stood by the “Dharma” of honouring the king’s invitation. How can this be considered as a fault on Yudishtra’s side? Moreover, did Yudishtra know that the game had an agenda behind it? He was completely kept in the dark till the last minute, isn’t it? Who’s fault is it now? Moreover, even in the courtroom, when Duryodhana had a proxy in Sahuni to play the gamble on behalf of him, who came forward to help Yudishtra to help him out, even though everyone knew that Yudishtra doesn’t know the nuances of winning the game? Isn’t it unfair that one plays with a proxy and the other is left alone to defend himself? Moreover, of all these factors, if the game is planned based on the agenda of abducting the kingdom, and if Yudishtra is totally unaware of it and if he is cheated blatantly, who is at fault? When “Adharma” is blatantly displayed in broad limelight for everyone to see by Duryodhana and Sahuni, why are you blaming Yudishtra for it? Why don’t you blame even an iota of this on Duryodhana? Who convinced King Dhritarashtra for the gambling game? It was grossly Duryodhana isn’t it? Moreover, even if Duryodhana tried to convince King Dhritatashtra, where did the brains of King Dhritarashtra go? Doesn’t King Dhritarashtra have the experience to analyze what his son is doing? Doesn’t he know that playing the gambling game in the centre of the courtroom is gross “Adharma” in public display? Now it is proved that both the father and son are acting against “Dharma” and what right do they have to put the blame on Yudishtra? Moreover, will King Dhritarashtra obey whatever his son says without putting a thought into it? Has King Dhritarashtra become a slave of Duryodhana? Doesn’t he have brains of his own to take neutral decisions pertaining to “Dharma”? If he’s not able to do so, who is at fault? Yudishtra? Hence, oh Balarama! I fail to understand this argument of yours which is grossly supporting Duryodhana’s cause!” 

As Saatyaki fumes thus, there are a few important leadership lessons for us to learn as well in this accord. Let us look at those in the next episode! Stay tuned! 🙂  

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the continuation of the meeting proceedings at the Viraata Desha, wherein the Viraata King along with Bhagawan Krishna, Balarama, Saatyaki, etc. are contemplating about Yudishtra’s future and which route he should be taking to claim the kingdom of Indraprastha. Should war be an option or should we go with peace talks by sending messengers to broker peace? Bhagawan Krishna and Balarama express their opinions individually. Bhagawan Krishna’s stance is very simple – First option is peace talks, and if it doesn’t work, the second option is war! However, Balarama contradicts Bhagawan Krishna by saying that peace talks are the only option because the fault is also on Yudishtra’s side for accepting the offer to play the gambling game. Saatyaki, upon hearing this, fumes in anger against Balarama by saying that Yudishtra has had enough for the past thirteen years and he has undergone all possible sufferings! Even after all these, why should Yudishtra continue to suffer? Is he a scapegoat under the hands of Duryodhana, just for that one mistake of accepting the offer of playing the gambling game? 

As this discussion proceeds further, we should understand one important point here – Why is Balarama having a soft corner towards Duryodhana? This is not the first time he bats for Duryodhana. He has done it in the past, and is going to do the same thing in the future as well! In fact, when the Kurukshetra war is about to begin, Bhagawan Krishna requests Balarama to fight for Yudishtra and help him win the war. However, Balarama objects and instead, goes on a “Tirtha-Yatra” (Spiritual tour) during the 18-day period. However, on the eighteenth day, Balarama comes back and this is the time when Duryodhana is going to wage a lone battle against Bheemasena. Even at this time, Balarama sides with Duryodhana and not with Bheemasena! So why is this happening? Why is Balarama taking sides towards Duryodhana? Doesn’t he know “Dharma”? Doesn’t he stand by “Dharma”? Many questions arise, isn’t it? 

There’s an important reason to it – Balarama is the “Guru” for Duryodhana who taught “Gadha-Yuddham” for him, when Duryodhana was a child. This Guru-Sishya relationship is the one that prevents Balarama to think anything against the likes of Duryodhana, even though he knows that Duryodhana is going on an “Adharmic” path. However, in this case, we’ve to compare Balarama and Arjuna here – Arjuna is the disciple of Guru Dhronachaarya, isn’t he? However, when it comes to standing by “Dharma”, Arjuna was prepared to take on his teacher, even though he respects Guru Dhronachaarya a lot! We’ve witnessed in our earlier episode when Arjuna single-handedly defended the Viraata Desha along with Utthara Kumara. When Guru Dhronachaarya came forward to fight, Arjuna bowed down to him and paid his respects first. Subsequently the fight began and Guru Dhronachaarya himself could not stand in front of Arjuna’s prowess with his “Gaandeepa”. Of course, during the Kurukshetra war, Arjuna, upon seeing Guru Dhronachaarya, loses himself and puts down his “Gaandeepa”! However, upon Bhagawan Krishna’s motivation (The Bhagawad Gita section), Arjuna once again regains his composure, picks up the “Gaandeepa” and fights. 

Thus, there is a stark difference between Balarama and Arjuna here – Arjuna listens to Bhagawan Krishna’s divine advice everytime and with this, he stands by the side of “Dharma”. However, Balarama is always stark opposite to whatever Bhagawan Krishna says, and ultimately he ended up being on the side of “Adharma” for no big reason! So for today, let us understand this small analysis and in the next episode, we shall continue this discussion further! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had commenced our discussion on the all-important “Udyoga Parva”, wherein we witnessed a glimpse of how the seeds of war between the two rival camps are sown here. We’ve witnessed that peace talks are going to be initiated from both camps, after Duryodhana flatly refuses to give Indraprastha back to Yudishtra after their Vana-Vaasam period is over. From the Kauravas’ side, Sanjaya goes as a messenger to broker peace and this attempt fails. From the Paandavas’ side, Bhagawan Krishna Himself volunteers to broker peace, but His attempt too results in failure. Thus, at the end of this “Udyoga-Parva”, we’re going to witness that both camps are going to ready themselves for the inevitable war after all the peace attempts end up in failure. Throughout this “Parva”, we’re going to witness enormous lessons of leadership and management through the narratives of various people including Sanjaya, Vidura, Bhagawan Krishna, etc. on “Raaja-Dharma”. Thus, this discussion starting today, is going to be an enriching one for all of us, and I request readers to seriously take notes on whatever we discuss from here on. 

Moving on further from here, we shall now get into the discussion of the “Udyoga Parva”. We had ended the previous “Viraata Parva” with the note that Bhishmachaarya declares that Yudishtra and Co. had successfully completed the “Vana-Vaasam”, plus the “Agnyaata Vaasam” as well. This prompted to Yudishtra to disclose his true identity to the Viraata king, and move on from there. Thus, as the Sabha (Courtroom) at Viraata Desha assembles, the discussion revolves around how Yudishtra should be staking claim now for his Indraprastha kingdom once more. Bhagawan Krishna initiates the discussion by explaining His stance that Yudishtra has every right to rule Indraprastha and if such a thing doesn’t happen, there is no other option but to use force (war) to obtain the kingdom from Duryodhana. 

Bhagawan Krishna continues thus, “Oh people! Let us do this through a strategy – Let us send a credible Brahmin Pandit from Viraata Desha to Hastinapura and explain our stance. This Brahmin Pandit can be selected by the Viraata king himself. This person can go and explain clearly that we are not for war, but Duryodhana should give back the Indraprastha kingdom to Yudishtra. If he doesn’t, we’ve to clearly explain to them that we are not shying away from a war! War can always be an option, but we want to broker peace, so that both Duryodhana and Yudishtra can live prosperously without any disturbance for each other!” 

Hearing this, Balarama (Bhagawan Krishna’s brother) stands up and voices his opinion. He is now going to talk exactly the opposite of what Bhagawan Krishna is talking here. Balarama says thus, “Oh Krishna! What are you blabbering? When the gambling game episode happened, who asked Yudishtra to go and play along with Sahuni? Doesn’t Yudishtra know that Sahuni is an expert in the gambling game? Without even an iota of thought, how did he even accept the invitation of Duryodhana to play the gambling game? Doesn’t Yudishtra know that if Sahuni is the opponent, he is certainly going to lose? If we have the fault in our hand, how on earth can we call for a war with Duryodhana? Maybe if Yudishtra would have denied the offer of playing the gambling game and still if Duryodhana resorted to other tricks and abducted the Indraprastha kingdom, then perhaps, war would have been the only solution. But now this is not the case. Yudishtra has blatantly accepted the offer and knowingly lost against Sahuni and Co. Now, according to me, the only way to re-obtain the Indraprastha kingdom is to broker peace. Of course, I’m not saying that Yudishtra shouldn’t stake claim for the kingdom. He should definitely do that! But, war can never be an option because the fundamental mistake is upon our side! Yudishtra should only request and keep requesting Duryodhana for the kingdom and this is my stance!” 

As Balarama explains thus, Saatyaki who is sitting next to him is in extreme anger! This explanation from Balarama irritates Saatyaki. He now stands up and speaks in a thunderous voice! He has an exactly opposite view on what Balarama said! Saatyaki says thus, “Oh Balarama! Do you even know what you’re talking? Of course, I agree to the fact that Yudishtra made that mistake of accepting Duryodhana’s offer of playing the gambling game. However, why do you want to corner Yudishtra for just that one bad decision? For this, Yudishtra had accepted the “Vana-Vaasam” and “Agnyaata-Vaasam” gracefully, didn’t he? Did you open your mouth then? Now, after the thirteen years of suffering that Yudishtra had undergone as per the verdict of King Dhritarashtra, you’re still talking about Yudishtra’s fault only. Why don’t you look at how many faults did Duryodhana make?” 

As Saatyaki fumes thus, Balarama gets shocked for a few minutes! He did not expect Saatyaki to react so ferociously and such a thing hasn’t happened in the past as well! But the real question here is – Why is Balarama having a soft corner towards Duryodhana everytime? What prompts him to talk in favour of Duryodhana? This is something that we’ve to understand clearly and we shall see the answers in the next episode! Stay tuned for an interesting accord! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the end of the “Viraata Parva” wherein the Paandavas had gone to the Viraata Desha as part of their “Agnyaata-Vaasam” for a one-year period. They were in a disguised form so that nobody would be able to spot their real identities. Finally towards the end, the identity had to be revealed as Arjuna had to wage a war against Duryodhana and Co. and with this, their “Agnyaata Vaasam” period also gets over. As the Paandavas reveal their identities to the Viraata King, he is extremely happy and in gratitude for defending his kingdom at a critical time, he gives Utthara Devi in marriage to Arjuna’s son, Abhimanyu. A grand marriage function takes place under the leadership of Bhagawan Krishna (Uncle to Abhimanyu) and the entire kingdom is extremely proud and happy! This marks the end of the “Viraata Parva” and as we’re finishing this Parva on a happy note, the next Parva called “Udyoga Parva” commences, wherein we’re going to witness a lot of strategies that both the camps are going to make, to defeat each other. In fact, the seeds for the Kurukshetra war is sown in this Parva and it is going to be very interesting to witness. Sage Vyaasa has packed this Parva with a lot of important leadership and management lessons for all of us to learn as well. Hence, let us get into the “Udyoga Parva” right away! 

Thus, as we move in, we’re first going to see the structure of the “Udyoga Parva”. This is one of the eighteen main “Parvas” of the Mahabharata story and this has 10 “Upa-Parvas” under it. The word “Udyoga” means “Prayathnam” (Effort). In short, the “Udyoga Parva” talks about the various efforts that were taken by the Paandava brothers to reclaim their lost kingdom. This is one side of the story, and on the other side, the effort was also taken to prepare for the Kurukshetra war as well. Various strategies to reclaim the kingdom were tried out, and because all these strategies ended up in failure, the only way now to reclaim the lost kingdom is by waging a huge war! A lot of effort was taken by people from both the camps to prevent a disastrous war, however, all those efforts ended up in a failure. Hence, the end of the Udyoga Parva signifies that there is no other option left, but to go for war! 

So now, we shall witness what were those efforts taken by people from both the camps. One such important effort is to lower the tension between the two camps through “peace talks”. Messengers were sent from each other’s camps to conduct peace talks. Sanjaya went from Duryodhana’s side to the Paandava brothers to broker peace between the two camps. In return, Bhagawan Krishna Himself volunteered to go as a messenger to Duryodhana’s camp to broker peace. These two attempts are the most important aspects in the Udyoga Parva and with this note, let us commence the content of the “Udyoga Parva” one by one. 

Now, after the marriage between Abhimanyu and Utthara Devi, the courtroom of Viraata Desha once again assembled together. Now, after the marriage is over, the Paandavas’ family has also become part of the Viraata family isn’t it? Hence, Bhagawan Krishna, Balarama, Saatyaki, King Drupata, etc. are also part of the courtroom discussion of Viraata Desha! The Viraata king is extremely happy that his courtroom is sparkling with all the big names for the first time ever! Thus, all of them sit together and talk. Bhagawan Krishna starts the proceedings thus, “Oh people! All of us know that the Paandava brothers have spent twelve years in the forest (Vana-Vaasam) and the thirteenth year (Agnyaata-Vaasam) in the Viraata Desha in the disguised form. With this, they have satisfied the instruction that came from King Dhritarashtra on that fateful day of gambling. Now, Yudishtra has every right to go and stake claim for his Indraprastha kingdom, for which, I’m also ready to support him in all possible ways. Let us now discuss how we should go about doing this! I’ve paid several visits to the Paandavas during their “Vana-Vaasam” time, and even during those challenging situations, Yudishtra never deviated from the path of “Dharma” even once! Hence, as elders and well-wishers of Yudishtra, we’ve to jointly take a decision as to how to go about helping him regain Indraprastha. Should we opt for a peace strategy or should we go for a war strategy? I’m open to both! As elders and as experienced people, let us discuss the way forward and guide Yudishtra accordingly! However, I’m clear on one point here – If Duryodhana is fine with giving back the Indraprastha kingdom with mere peace talks, I’m totally fine with it. However, if he is not ready to budge to our peace talks, there is no other option but to go for war! In whatever case, Yudishtra has to regain his kingdom – Either through peace or through war! Of course, I’m not saying that I want a war. But, if there is no other option left, we’ve to go for a war and it is inevitable!”

Saying thus, Bhagawan Krishna expresses his opinion firstup and opens up the discussion for the others to voice their views. So this fiery accord from Bhagawan Krishna nicely sets up the tone for our further discussion on the Udyoga Parva, isn’t it? For today, let us understand up to this point and in the next episode, we shall witness what the others opined to Bhagawan Krishna’s words! Stay tuned! 🙂  

In the previous episode, we had witnessed the Paandavas revealing their real identities to the Viraata Desha king amidst the fully assembled courtroom. Yudishtra requests Arjuna to do the honours and accordingly, as Brihannala gives a detailed report on the recently concluded wars, he reveals his true identity and subsequently explains that his four brothers along with his wife Draupati were in disguise till today because they had a rule to fulfil. Moreover, Arjuna thanks the Viraata Desha king for giving them hospitality and jobs in the kingdom and also for the opportunity to defend the kingdom at critical times. As Arjuna explains everything, the Viraata Desha king is both in a state of shock as well as happiness. He now has to reply something to what Arjuna has just said, isn’t it? So what is he going to reply? How is he going to react to Arjuna’s words? Let us discuss today! 

Moving further, the Viraata King replies thus, “Oh Arjuna! I’m both shocked as well as happy with this revelation! Till today, I did not know that the Paandava brothers were amidst all of us, and if I would have known this earlier, I would have treated all of you with much more respect. You had come here posing as servants and if I had erred in my hospitality to all of you in any way, I’m seeking my profound apologies in front of everyone. Indeed, I’m extremely happy that I had an opportunity to spend one full year with all of you. Moreover, you had played an important role in protecting our kingdom from enemies from both the northern and the southern direction. If you were not there, Viraata Desha would have been history today. Hence, as a token of gratitude to Arjuna, I would like to give my daughter, Utthara in marriage to him in front of everybody here! I request Arjuna to accept Utthara Devi as his wife!” 

As the Viraata King says thus, Arjuna immediately replies back: “Oh great king! I’m deeply moved by your token of gratitude that you’re willing to give me. However, please remember one thing – Utthara Devi, till now was my student when I was teaching her music and dance forms. Hence, it is not fair that a student marries a teacher, and it is against “Dharma”. Thus, I will not be in a position to marry Utthara Devi. However, I shall accept Utthara Devi as my daughter-in-law, which means, I’m willing to give my son, Abhimanyu in marriage to Utthara Devi!” Upon hearing this, the Viraata King is extremely happy and satisfied with Arjuna’s answer and all the arrangements for a grand marriage is made. This detail is explained in the next Upa-Parva called “Vaivaahika Parva”. The invitation for the the grand marriage is sent to all people around, including Bhagawan Krishna, Balarama, Sathvaki, Pradhyumna, Aniruddha, etc. and all of them assemble at the Viraata Desha immediately as the news is known. Bhagawan Krishna, along with his son, Pradhyumna arrives at the Viraata Nagara to witness the marriage and to provide His divine “Anugraha” to the newly-married couple. 

Bhagawan Krishna, while coming, brings a lot of gifts to Abhimanyu and Arjuna. On one hand, many of us might be knowing that Subhadra is the sister of Bhagawan Krishna and hence, there is a family relationship between Abhimanyu and Bhagawan Krishna. As per the relationship, Bhagawan Krishna is the uncle of Abhimanyu, and hence, as an uncle, Bhagawan Krishna has the duty to conduct the marriage with all the possible gifts, isn’t it? Hence, Bhagawan Krishna comes with a truck load of gifts and conducts the marriage in a grand fashion! Thus, Subadhra’s son, Abhimanyu (Arjuna’s son) marries Utthara Devi and both of them start leading a happy married life with each other, and with this, the “Agnyaata-Vaasam” period of the Paandava brothers is successfully over, and with this, the entire thirteen-year Vana-Vaasam is also satisfied according to the rule laid down by Duryodhana!  Now, Yudishtra and Co. have every right to return back to Hastinapura and stake claim for the Indraprastha kingdom again. Saying thus, Sage Vyaasa ends the Viraata Parva. 

With this, the Paandavas once again come into a huddle and plan the next course of action. Anyway, now Duryodhana and Co. know that the Paandava brothers are at Viraata Desha, things are going to get a bit complicated from here on for Yudishtra, and with this, we enter into the crucial “Udyoga Parva”. This is going to be a turning point in the entire Mahabharata story and for today, let us understand up to this point. In the next episode, we shall be commencing the “Udyoga Parva” formally and start witnessing what happened next! Stay tuned for more updates! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Yudishtra and Arjuna finally spilling the beans about their real identities. As Arjuna wins over the entire Kaurava army single handedly, Utthara Kumara who had accompanied Arjuna during the war is extremely excited that Brihannala is none other than Arjuna. Thus, to control his excitement, Arjuna instructs Utthara Kumara not to reveal his identity when they are back in the palace until Yudishtra reveals it officially. Utthara Kumara obeys, and thus, both of them return back victoriously with the cows that were abducted earlier by the enemy camp. Moreover, we had seen that as promised by Utthara Kumara by the ladies of the Viraata Desha, he brings all the “Vasthras” (Garments) of the defeated enemy camp, thus, stamping the victory to all of them! As two to three days pass by, Yudishtra decides that it is time to reveal their identities and move on from there. Thus, when the courtroom assembles, Yudishtra and Arjuna are present in the prime chamber where the king sits. As the king arrives, he is surprised to see Kanka and Brihannala near his throne, waiting for his arrival. This usually doesn’t happen every day, and this unusual act surprises him. Vallabha and Sairandhri are also present in the courtroom and as the king takes his place, Yudishtra requests Arjuna to do the talking. 

Arjuna commences his report pertaining to the recently concluded wars that endangered the Viraata Desha. He says thus, “Oh King! Yes! Our kingdom had recently gone through turbulent times, but we have come out successfully from those challenges and defended our kingdom perfectly without any problems! Moreover, the people who had facilitated this victory are none other than the Paandava brothers themselves, including me! Oh king! Till today, for the past one year, you would be knowing me as Brihannala, who teaches art forms like music, dance, etc. to your daughter Utthara. Now let me reveal myself to you and in front of everybody in this courtroom – I’m none other than Arjuna, who is an ardent devotee of Bhagawan Krishna and who holds the powerful Gaandeepa bow, which instils fear in any opponent’s mind! I was the one who guided Utthara Kumara in the northern direction, fought single-handedly with the Kaurava army and brought back all the cows and cattle of the Viraata Desha safely. In the northern direction too we tasted victory, didn’t we? Credit goes to Vallabha, whom till date, you might be knowing as a kitchen worker. This Vallabha is none other than the great Bheemasena, who is also my brother. Bheemasena, as you might be aware, is famous for his raw muscle power and can take anybody down with ease! Similarly, your trusted aide in decision making – Kanka, is none other than Yudishtra who stands by “Dharma” at all times! Similarly, my brothers Nakula and Sahadeva were taking care of your horses and cows respectively. My wife, Draupati is none other than your queen’s aide, Sairandhri! All of us were in a disguised form as part of our one-year “Agnyaata Vaasam” period in your kingdom and we came with the good intention to be of some help to you and to your kingdom! We thank you for giving us an opportunity to serve you and contribute to your victories!” 

As Arjuna reveals thus, the entire courtroom is shell-shocked! The king doesn’t know what to reply! On one hand, he is extremely happy that a man of Yudishtra’s stature was there near him at all times, guiding him in a lot of administrative affairs. He is also happy that Bheemasena and Arjuna were instrumental in protecting the kingdom from all directions efficiently. On the other hand, a sense of fear grips him as well! A sense of shock prevails in the king’s mind and he is now struggling to express himself through words! Now the king has to do something in exchange to all the good things that the Paandava brothers have done to him, isn’t it? So what is the king going to do? Let us wait till the next episode to witness! Stay tuned! 🙂 

In the previous episode, we had witnessed Duryodhana claiming that he had found out the whereabouts of the Paandava brothers before the “Agnyaata-Vaasam” period is over. However, he is strongly refuted by Bhishmachaarya by saying that in terms of both the “Chandra-Panchanga” and the “Surya-Panchanga”, the “Agnyaata-Vaasam” time period is already over and the Paandavas have spent five more months in the forest than required (as per the “Chandra-Panchanga” calculation) and five more days in the forest than required (as per the “Surya-Panchanga” calculation). This irks Duryodhana to the core and now there is no other option but to go for an all-out assault against Arjuna, who is standing in front of them along with Utthara Kumara. As per the instruction, all of them in the Kaurava camp launch a joint attack on Arjuna, only to be defeated and made to fall unconscious with the help of Arjuna’s “Mohana-Asthra”! Now that all of them have fallen unconscious, what happens next? Let us witness today!

Moving on thus, as the entire Kaurava army is gasping for breath, Arjuna quickly takes a decision and talks to Utthara Kumara thus, “Oh Utthara Kumara! Now is the right time to go and bring back all our cows from their possession. None of them are conscious at the moment. Before they regain their consciousness, all our cows should come back! Moreover, you had promised to the women of Viraata Desha that you will all the top “Vasthras” (garments) of your enemies, didn’t you? Hence, here’s the opportunity – Go and pick up all their top “Vasthras” and come!” As Utthara Kumara goes near all of them, his hands are trembling with fear! He hasn’t seen such great warriors in his life, and moreover, all of them at the same place, lying unconscious on the ground with a huge defeat by one person called Arjuna! As Utthara Kumara goes near Bhishmachaarya, Guru Dhronachaarya, Duryodhana, etc. he picks up all their garments and carefully returns back along with the cows as well. 

Now, both Arjuna and Utthara Kumara are going to make a grand return back to the kingdom. At the time when Utthara Kumara is about to get on to the charioteer’s seat, Arjuna says thus, “Oh Utthara Kumara! Now that the war is over, you should be the king and I should be your charioteer. I shall once again dawn the form of Brihannala and return back to the kingdom with you. If anyone asks about the result of the war, please tell them that you had waged a war single-handedly with some “Gandharvas” and “Yakshas” and won over them! Let us not reveal the truth for the next two or three days, unless and until Yudishtra himself reveals it to everyone in public. Let us wait till that time and please do not blurt out the truth about me to anyone in the kingdom!” 

As Arjuna says thus, Utthara Kumara obeys and once again, Arjuna becomes Brihannala and rides the chariot for Utthara Kumara. All along the way, Utthara Kumara boasts about his great victory against some very powerful enemies as per Brihannala’s instruction. Brihannala too acknowledges Utthara Kumara’s proclamation and the entire kingdom is in awe of him! Three days pass by and it is time that Yudishtra now talks in front of the entire courtroom to reveal all of their identities. Now, rather than Yudishtra himself doing the talking, he wants Arjuna to start the proceedings. The courtroom has gathered, not for this, but to take stock of the situation wherein the Viraata Desha was under attack from two major directions, and finally the kingdom tasted victory. However, the king wants to understand what was going on and how they won against all the enemies. Thus, as per Yudishtra’s instruction, Arjuna does the talking. As all of them gather there thus, the five Paandava brothers are standing there with a fresh pair of white clothes, along with Sairandhri (Draupati). 

As all things are set, the Viraata King comes to his throne, only to be surprised in seeing all the five “Servants” assembled together along with Sairandhri. Kanka is standing there, along with Vallabha, Brihannala and the others. As the king sees all these people together, initially he did not even know that they are brothers and because of this, he is surprised! So now, Arjuna is going to do the talking, and for today, let us understand up to this point! In the crucial next episode, we shall see the grand revelation from Arjuna and how the Viraata king is going to react to this revelation! Stay tuned for an important accord! 🙂