MAHABHARATAM KARNA PARVAM

Chilukuru Venkateswarlu MAHABHARATAM KARNA PARVAM

© Chilukuru Venkateswarlu

Year : 2014

Copies can be had from : SRI RAMAKRISHNA TAPOVANAM Chennai – 600 032, Mobile : 9884708559 Website : sriramakrishnatapovanam.org E-mail ID : [email protected]

Typesetting by : R. Anuradha Raghuram, Hyderabad. (9441186831)

2 Dedication

Sri Nori Sreenadha Venkata Somayazulu & Smt. Subbalakshmi

Dedicated to my brother Sree Nori Sreenadha venkata Somayazulu and Smt. Subbalakshmi. Sree Somayazulu was born on 10-12-1922 at Thotlavalluru. He was the second son of late Sri Nori Suryanarayana and Seetamma. He learnt Vedas from his grandfather late Sri Nori Ramavadhani. Some how he did not showed much interest in academic education. In those days, education, economic background were not considered as an important parameter for a marriage. Arshayam and Paursheom are considered to be supreme. So he was married at a very early age with late Smt. Subbalakshmi at her eighth year. After marriage, he was inclined to equip himself with some professional qualifications. In those days the country was in the heat of independence movement under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. In

3 his movement Gandhiji strongly felt that there must be a common bondage to make the country united. He choose the propagation of Hindi as a common language in the country. Sri Somayazulu was one of the millions of youth influenced by Gandhiji’s call and immediately jumped into the movement. He started adult education in his house for adults in his village. With the same spirit he started learning Hindi and Sanskrit from scholars like Sri Ramananda Sarma, Sri Jatavallabhula Purushottam and pursued with great devotion. In the process he acquired several degrees in Hindi such as Vidwan, SahityaRatna from Allahabad University; B.A and Telugu Vidwan B.Ed degrees from Andhra University, Waltair. To spread the message of Gandhiji further he started “Netaji Hindi Vidyalaya” in Machilipatnam. (Krishna District A.P) Subsequently, He joined ZillaParishad (Krishna District), served as a Hindi, Telugu Pandit and retired as A Head Master. He helped his younger brothers Sri Ramakrishaiah, Narayanamoorthy in building up their careers. During early sixties to help. His youngest brother Chilukuru Venkateswarlu, a career he wrote the biographies of ancient Telugu poets and fixed his career as a publisher. (Subsequently, Venkateswarlu became a successful industrialist and as a writer in Telugu and English, settled at Chennai) He wrote many books on Vedanta such as Upanishads, Bhagavatgeeta, Brahmasutras, Patanjali yoga sutras etc. He died on 02- 02-1997 in his own house which was fondly named as ‘Upanishad Kuteeram’ at Tadigadapa, Vijayawada. Srimathi Subbalakshmi his wife was born in Gollakoderu near Kaikaluru Krishna district. They had six daughters and a son. I feel I am privileged to dedicate Sri Mahabharatam to my brother and sister-in-law.

- Chilukuru Venkateswarlu

4 BETWEEN YOU AND ME

Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavatams are the reflection of Indian heritage and culture. With the grace of my guru Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa I have already written Ramayanam and Bhagavatam. Now by writing Mahabharatam, I feel I am privileged and fortunate. Even late Sri C. Rajagopalachari expressed his happiness that he enjoyed more Anandam after writing Ramayana and Mahabharata than occupying the seat of Governor General.

Mahabharatam provides us all the knowledge to pursue the principal objects of a human life viz dharma, ardha, kaama and moksha. It contains the essence of Vedas, Sastras, Upanishads and Puranas and it is said “What is in Mahabharata is everywhere, what is not in Mahabharata is not available anywhere”. Pandits applauded Mahabharatam as “Panchama Vedam” (Fifth Vedam).

Vyasa Maharishi has written this great epic in three years for the benefit of the mankind. Kavitrayam (Nannaya, Tikkana and Errapreggada) was written in Telugu in about three centuries. It is very astonishing to note that though three different poets have written, spread over in three centuries, the reader will have a feeling that the entire epic was written by one single poet during his lifetime. All this is because of the blessings of Vyasa Maharishi and the good fortune of Telugu Literature.

5 Mahabharatam is not only the oldest scripture in the world (over 5000 years) but also bigger than “Illiad” and “Oddessy” (The ancient Greek epics). It is bigger not only in volume, but by its character delineation and it’s range of emotions.

Mahabharatam tells us the righteous character of Pandavas and the wicked nature of Duryodhana and his associates. The conflict of these two characters lead to the great battle of Kurukshetra.

Bhagavat Geeta is like the soul of Mahabharata. Pandavas are it’s body. The Purushardhas, Ithihasas, Upakhyanas and Dharmas are it’s energy. Vyasa Maharishi has churned the ocean of human life and took out nectar in the form of Mahabharatam for the benefit of the mankind. In short Mahabharatam is the spiritual torch for the human life. It not only teaches all dharmas from Vedas and Puranas, but also gives their subtle nature and leads the people to right path at times of need.

Kavitrayam are like Trimoortis. Aadikavi Nannaya is Vishnu. Kavibrahma Tiikana was Brahma. Prabandha Parameswara ‘Errapreggada’ was Parameswara. Though they lived in different ages, they aptly had the titles as Trimoortis and became popular as Kavitrayam.

I take this opportunity and pay my respects to my parents Sri Nori Suryanarayana and Seetamma and to my adopted mother Sri Chilukuru Syamalamba. I prostrate at the lotus feet of my guru Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. I pray my gurudev to spread the message of Indian culture and heritage through these epics to one and all in the world.

- Chilukuru Venkateswarlu

6 SRIMADANDHRA MAHABHARATHAM KARNA PARVAM Chapter – 1

Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! Bheeshma and Drona were masters in not only in archery but also in knowledge and tapasya. However to our misfortune, god had taken away both of them. Now what arrangements my son made to continue the battle. Was he able to choose anyone as the next commander-inchief ?” Sanjaya: “King! After the fall of Drona, Aswadhama did his best to eliminate Pandava’s army. Duryodhana convened a meeting on that night and asked all of us to name the next commander-in-chief. Aswadhama proposed, “King! You nominate Karna as our commander-in- chief. He is one of the only great archerer in our side. He not only had the leadership qualities but also enthusiastic. With the blessings of God, he can bring you the victory. He is an ocean of divine astras. He was seconded by Salya. On hearing the proposal of Aswadhama your son felt very happy and his hopes were blossomed. Duryodhana: Karna! Your loyalty and friendship towards me are well known to all. After Bheeshma and Drona, you alone can protect the Kaurava army. Of all said and done, Bheeshma and Drona fought on our side with partiality. Their mind was always fixed on Pandavas and their victory. On several occasions, they praised the glories of Pandavas even in my presence. We could have won the battle long ago had they been loyal. However past is past. You be my commander-in-chief. You can easily decimate Pandavas and secure me the victory.

Karna parvam 7 “Karna! You are a learned person, and valorous. In fact you are my protector and best friend. We are always irritated by Bheeshma and Drona. Since they are no more, we can complete our job without any impediments. As darkness disappears, with sun shine, all our enemies will be destroyed, with your presence. As Kumaraswamy helped devatas to win rakshasas, you help me in winning Pandavas. Now you be our commander-in-chief” and lead our armies. Karna: “Duryodhana! I obey your orders and accept the responsibility as your commander-in-chief. I give a word of honour that I will smash all Pandava armies and secure a victory for you. Before my power of my diver astras, Pandavas vigour will become a candle before the sun. You sit and watch my spirit of fight.’’ “King! Earlier you have honoured me by making the king of Anga Desa. Once again you are honoring me as your commander-in-chief. On this auspicious occasion, I am assuring you that I not only kill Arjuna but all those who are born in that family. You and your family line will enjoy this land forever. Duryodhana you may ask me how? Nothing is impossible for a truthful and righteous person. Arjuna is equal to me in astras and valour but not in energy and strength. So be confident I will make my words true.” Sanjaya: Dhrutarashtra! That night Duryodhana went home and had a sound sleep. I could see the brilliance in his face as if he has already became the emperor. Karna’s first day’s fight: Sanjaya: Next morning Karna entered the battle field and planned a Makara vyuha. In that vyuha he stood at the nose. His sons, Aswadhama, Krutavarma, Krupacharya, Selya, Sushena, and Chitrasena stood at appropriate places. All the

8 Mahabharatam four wings of army were formed an outer cover for them. In Pandavas front, Dharmaraja entered the battle field with all the four wings of his army. Arjuna planned a Crescent vyuha in reply to Karna’s Makara vyuha. “Dhrutarashtra! Your son was very much jubilant and dreamt that Krishna and Arjuna would be killed in the hands of Karna. On the other front, Dharmaraja was also equally jubilant as if Karna was killed Arjuna. In this manner, both the sides entered the battle field with high expectations. Bheema kills king Kshamadhoorthi: King Kshamadhoorthi entered the battle field supported by a big herd of elephant. He exited he herds of elephants on Bheema. Bheema threw twelve spears in the chest of Kshamadhoorthi and killed him. “On the death of Kshamadhoorthi all our armies were frightened and ran away. Nakula fought with Karna, Bheema with Aswadhama, Satyaki with Kekaya, Chitrasena with Srutavarama, Prathivindhya with Chitra, Dharmaraja with Duryodhana, Samsaptakas with Drushtajyumna, Sikhandi with Krupacharya, Krutavarma with Sruthakeerti and Sahadeva with Dussasana. Karma fought with Nakula: Nakula fought with Karna. At one point Karna threw Nakula on the ground. He pressed his bow on Nakula’s throat and said Karna : “Nakula! A short while you uttered all haughty words on me. Should you not think twice before you use such words at an elderly person like me? Now your life is in my hands. You are not equal to me. Why did you chose to fight with more valorous like me? If you wish to fight you fight with soldiers. In future, don’t come in front of me”. By saying

Karna parvam 9 so, he left Nakula without killing. Thus he kept up his promise made to Kunti. Sanjaya : “While Karna was killing Pandava army, your son Yuyusthu fought with Ulooka. As Yuyusthu became weak, his charioteer took him away. Srutasoma, son of Bheema, fought with Sakuni. They fought for a long time and wounded each other. Drushtajyumna fought with Krupacharya: Krupacharya released sharp divine astras on Drushtajyumna and wounded his horses. The charioteer was frightened at the fury of Krupacharya and took his chariot far away. Sikhandi and Krutavarma had a tough fight. Sikhandi broke the bow of Krutavarma and filled arrows on Krutavarma’s body. The charioteer took him away. Duryodhana fought with Dharmaraja: Duryodhana consolidated his army and attacked Dharmaraja. He cast nine arrows on Dharmaraja and one arrow on his charioteer. Dharmaraja sent out thirteen sharp arrows and broke the chariot of Duryodhana. With another arrow, he broke the shield of Duryodhana and wounded on his chest. With another arrow, he broke his flag post. Duryodhana tried to attack with a sword. In the meanwhile, Dharmaraja broke the sword into pieces. Duryodhana boarded another chariot and went away. Aswadhama, Karna fought with Bheema, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva. Till midday the fighting went on ferociously. Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! You told me several stories about the war but you never told me how Duryodhana fought the battle. How he is beaten by Dharmaraja? You tell me more about him.’

10 Mahabharatam Sanjaya: “Duryodhana lost his chariot but not his courage. He took another chariot and came back with vengeance to hit on Dharmaraja and the fight went on severely. Duryodhana broke the bow of Dharmaraja. Before he took another bow, he sent sharp arrows on Dharmaraja. However Dharmaraja took another bow and broke the bow of Duryodhana. In this manner both rained arrows on each other. Both of them were wounded. Dharmaraja broke the forehead of Duryodhana with one arrow and made him fainted. Krutavarma came and attacked Dharmaraja. To support Dharmaraja, Bheema came and fought with Krutavarma. After a while Duryodhana recovered from his fainting, and saw Arjuna in front of him. He consolidated all his energy and remembered all the astras to casted on Arjuna. Arjuna not only broke all his astras but also broke his flag post, wounded his charioteer and horses. While he was about to release an arrow, which would certainly take away the life of Duryodhana, Aswadhama came in between and broke his bow string. Arjuna got furious on Aswadhama and broke his bow and killed his horses. In the mean while Krupacharya also attacked. Arjuna made his bow also into pieces. While Krutavarma came in support of Krupacharya, Arjuna broke the bow of Krupa and made a huge simhanadham. In the mean while it had become evening and war was stopped for the day. Both the armies went back to their barracks. Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! I understood that Pandavas did not want to kill all our enemies today itself. That is why Arjuna controlled his rage till the evening. Had Arjuna wanted to kill our armies even Yama or Agni, could not have stopped him.” That night all Kaurava warriors and kings discussed about the power of Arjuna. They all looked like cobras without teeth before Arjuna.

Karna parvam 11 Karna: “Duryodhana! By looking at today’s battle, we notice that Arjuna had established little superiority over us. Added to this, Krishna was also with him to give timely advice. The wicked, Krishna incited me to use my Sakthi weapon on Ghatotkacha. Oh king! Past is past. Tomorrow I will kill Krishna and Arjuna and see to it that you will have no enemy on this earth. You go and sleep peacefully.” Karna’s second day’s battle: Sanjaya: “On hearing the words of Karna, Duryodhana was as happy as if he had killed all the Pandavas and had a sound sleep. Next day Dharmaraja formed a Durjaya vyuha. Dhrutarashtra: “ While Duryodhana was beaten at the hands of Dharmaraja, Did Karna looked as a mere spectator? You tell me , what wonders he did on his second day’s battle? Sanjaya! Karna and Duryodhana do not know their strength” Do you believe that Karna would vanquish Pandava army? I don’t have any faith in him. I don’t understand, why Duryodhana kep so much faith on him. Will it not lead to his disaster? In fact his disaster has already took place, on the day he cheated them in a game of dice. Those seeds of frustration in a Arjuna is responsible for today’s disaster. My son has taken a wrong decision. Many my sons were killed in the battle, but all the sons of Panduraju are safe. What a pity!” Sanjaya: “King! What is the use of your repenting now? Will you get back the part? You yourself did the damage deliberately and now you are pretending innocence. King! You asked me why Karna had come late to the battle field! Listen. Before he reached the battle field, he went to Duryodhana and said: Karna: “Duryodhana! All these days myself and Arjuna fought in various groups. We did not fought one to one. Today

12 Mahabharatam I want to fight with him directly and decide whether I have to kill him or get killed by him. Though the Sakthi weapon had been spent away, I still have as many divine astras as Arjuna had. Fortunately Arjuna is not as strong as me. Even in brilliance, also he is no match to me. In chasing targets of long distance, I am superior to him. Either in courage or bravery he is not equivalent to me. Long back Vishvakarma made a bow, Vijayam, and gave it to Indra. Indra used that bow and fought with danavas and won the battles. Indra gave that bow to Parasurama. Out of love, Parasurama gave that bow to me. I am preserving that divine bow to kill Arjuna. “Duryodhana! Arjuna had a divine bow Gandeevam which won him many battles. I am also having a superior bow Vijayam which gave lot of victories to Devendra and Parasurama. Agni, the fire god, had gifted him a divine chariot, yoked by immortal horses. You have provided me a fleet of chariots for my use. Arjuna had a quiver with everlasting arrows. You also provided me cart loads of arrows and weapons. Arjuna had unlimited divine astras. I too had a treasure of divine astras. I am as much equipped as Arjuna to give you a victory. But Arjuna had a superior charioteer, Krishna, who is the ruler of all worlds. The secret behind all the success of Arjuna, was his charioteer Krishna and giving timely advice at times of need. That way, I too need an experienced charioteer. Hence you make Selya as my charioteer. Thereby he can run the chariot according to the thoughts of my mind. Another specialty in Krishna is he knows the mind of his horses and ride. Selya also is as great as Krishna in all those aspects. So if you can make Selya as my charioteer, I will kill Arjuna and put his head at your feet.’’

Karna parvam 13 Duryodhana requests Selya to be the charioteer for Karna: Duryodhana: “Great Selya! You are a truthful person. You harass the enemies in battle field all your noble qualities only made me your disciple. I prostrate at your feet and request you to oblige me. That is you must be the charioteer of Karna. Then only he could able to search our enemies and kill. Though Bheeshma and Drona were dead, I am able to continue the battle confidently, because of you and Karna are in my side. I strongly believe that you two only can bring me victory. I am living on this hope.” On hearing Duryodhana’s words, Selya became furious. His eyes became red. His eyebrows and checks shivered. He said to Duryodhana Selya: “Duryodhana! I am a Kshatriya, and coroneted as king. How can you ask me to do such a menial service? Don’t you know the Varnastrama dharmas? How can a Kshatriya, who belongs to a second caste, serve as a charioteer for a fourth caste person. I can’t serve a fourth caste person under any circumstances. In what respect Karna is superior to me? If you want me to fight with any of enemies I can defeat then. I even kill them and prove my worth to you. In matters of self respect, I don’t even care Arjuna or Krishna. Since you have more devotion and love for Karna, you dare to insult me? If you don’t want my help, you tell me I will go back to my country.’’ Duryodhana: “ Virtuous Selya! I never meant that you are inferior to Karna. To be frank, you are superior not only to Karna but also to Arjuna and Krishna in several respects. So, I am requesting you so much. You alone can run the chariot as efficiently as Krishna. Nobody else can do that job as you do. Selya was impressed and convinced by Duryodhana’s pleadings, because he praised him as superior to Krishna. He said to Duryodhana:

14 Mahabharatam Selya: “Duryodhana! You have praised me in the presence of so many kings that I am superior to Krishna. I am happy with your compliment. Irrespective of his birth, I am much impressed by his charitable quality. Since you have requested me so much, I am accepting to be the charioteer of Karna. However you have to respect my principles. That is, while I was riding the chariot what ever I feel good or bad, I will speak out openly for which he should not offend. Then only I can agree to be his charioteer.’’ Sanjaya: “Dhrutarashtra! On hearing Selya’s words, your son looked at Karna for his approval. After knowing the mind of Karna, Duryodhana said to Selya, “I am accepting your condition. Oh Selya! yuddha neeti is telling that the charioteer is superior them his rider. Hence be kind to Karna”. Selya accepts to be the charioteer for Karna: Selya: “Duryodhana! My words may appear to be harsh but they always do good to the rider. He is to listen patiently. Both of you should not find fault with me.” Karna: “Selya! You are a wise and valorous. As Brahma rode to Siva and Krishna rode to Arjuna, you ride for me.” Selya: “Karna! I can be a charioteer for even Indra. When the warrior is committing mistakes, how can I keep quiet without correcting him? Arjuna became great warrior because of Krishna’s advice at proper times. If you want to conquer Arjuna, you have to listen to your charioteer. At the time of consuming medicine, it might be bitter, but it will kill the disease. In the same manner, my words may appear, to be harsh. But it will do good to you. The rider should always listen to his charioteer as his friend and well-wisher. Then only he can win the battle.”

Karna parvam 15 Duryodhana: “Karna! Selya is more tactful than Krishna in driving a chariot. In fact even Matali, the charioteer of Indra, is not equal to Selya. Now you destroy the haughtiness of Arjuna.’ ’ Chapter -2 Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! Karna has chosen Selya as his charioteer. Having chosen him how, he faced the enemy armies?” Sanjaya: “King! As requested by Duryodhana, Selya was driving the chariot. Karna said to his charioteer, Karna: “Selya! Even devatas can’t understand the power of my astras. You will notice that all devata communities will appreciate my virility. Bheeshma and Drona lost their life, because they didn’t know the techniques of fighting. The moment Arjuna comes in front of me, I will kill him. If Pandavas come in support of him, I will kill them also. All those kings have to feel sorry having chosen the side of Pandavas. After death of Bheeshma and Drona, all our armies were dejected. I possessed several astras, bow and arrows from Parasurama. The treasure of astras I am in possession is enough to kill Arjuna. Then only I can be relived from the debt to Duryodhana. Selya praises Arjuna and blames Karna: Selya: “Karna! Why are you babbling like a chaild? Every one knows the valour of you and Arjuna. By any means you are not equal to Arjuna. Are you greater than Angaraparna whom Arjuna defeated in a night battle? When you all went to Dwaitavana to humiliate Pandavas, Gandharvas fastened Duryodhana. Arjuna fought with Gandharvas and released him. How can you be greater than Arjuna? When Agni was burning

16 Mahabharatam Khandavavana, Indra could not fought with him. Then, how are you greater than Arjuna? Arjuna fought with Siva and pleased him. Have you ever pleased Rudra? You are claiming that you can kill Arjuna, do you want me to believe your babblings? Stop jokes and start fighting.” Karna: “Selya! Your unpalatable words are paining me. You stop praising Arjuna. In a few moments, you will witness who is stronger, valorous, brave and courageous. At least till such time, you stop praising Arjuna.’ ’ On hearing Karna’s words, Selya kept quiet. In the meanwhile Karna shouted at soldiers “Soldiers! Have you seen Arjuna anywhere? Tell me where he is fighting, so that I wish to kill him in a direct fight. You get good gifts from me. After killing Krishna and Arjuna I will gift all their belongings to you.” Selya intervened and said: Selya: “Karna! Nobody needs to show Arjuna. Wherever our armies are running away in panic you will find, Arjuna there. Why do you unnecessarily create hopes in those soldiers. However if we have so much of money you can use it for any charitable purpose. If you want to fight with Arjuna, go with a big army. But if you go alone, you are inviting your own death. In your own interest and in the interest of Kauravas, I am giving you this piece of advice. Don’t mistake for my frankness. People can’t relish the truth as they relish untruth. As and when you face Arjuna’s sharp arrows from his Gandeevam, you yourself will understand who is Arjuna? No one need to take you to Arjuna. It looks to me as if a deer is jumping against a lion. A rabbit is dashing against an elephant. Why I am taking so much pain is that you don’t have valour and strength to fight Arjuna in a direct fight.”

Karna parvam 17 Karna: “Selya! The good qualities of a person are known by another virtuous person. All and sundry can’t appreciate. Since I know the valour of Krishna and Arjuna, I took them so lightly. As you are afraid of Arjuna, you are trying to frightening me. Nobody knows the treasure of astras I am having. Everyday I worship those astras with flowers and sandalwood. Arjuna and Krishna can’t escape from me. In addition to those astras, I have Bhargavastram. That astra can kill two persons at a time. With that astra, I can kill Krishna and Arjuna at a time. What bigger gift can I offer to Duryodhana than the heads of Krishna and Arjuna? Don’t think me as an ordinary soldier. I can kill thousand Krishna’s and ten thousand Arjuna’s. Though you are elder to me by age, but your experience is not sufficient to teach me. Since you are a relative of Pandavas, you shouldn’t praise them in my presence. I will kill you at once. Beware.” Karna blames Selya: Karna: “Selya! You are the most inferior among kshatriyas. You are ruling a poor country and all your people are sinners. All the people in your country are cruel and think in wicked ways. Your nature is so low that you can do harm even to your own friends. Therefore nobody allows you to go anywhere near you. Because of your babblings, you are exposed badly. In your country, you encourage free sex and they don’t know who their father. You don’t have any moral values. It is not your mistake. All your people drink wine first and then mother’s milk. You are the ruler of such an immoral country. What better words can I expect from you? I follow Kshatriya dharma. Kshatriyas prefer even to die in a battle and

18 Mahabharatam reach heaven but will never praise their enemy. However wicked you might be, you can’t confuse me. Stop talking and mind your job.” Selya: “Karna! I am a well-wisher of Duryodhana. Since he requested me to be your charioteer, I accepted to work for you. Whenever I am supposed to tell you the good word, I shall continue to tell in the interest of our king. Inspite of knowing a truth, if I conceal, it amounts to telling a lie. A charioteer should know the following principles. viz the caste of the rider, his virile, the power of his astras, the way of fighting and the mind of the horses. In view of the above, I am telling you these facts since you are not aware ignorant. Whey are you finding fault with me? You tell me what harm I did to you? “Karna! Long ago a crow was nursed, with defiled food, by a vyasya. One day the crow challenged that it can go faster and a long distance without any stop and outmaneuver a swan. One day the the crow was induced by vyasya and flew with a swan. The crow took the challenge and flew over the sea. After some time the crow got tired, could not fly and was about to drown in to the waters. The swan took pity on the crow and carried it and put it on the shore. It also warned the crow “Don’t challenge others without knowing their strength and your weakness.” Karna: “I could have killed you . For telling me this crow and swan’s story at this hour. How dare you are to irritate me by praising my enemy and his glories? But for my friendship with the king, I am leaving you alive.” Selya : “Karna! You are also nursed by Duryodhana and put up weight. By virtue of your weight, you are dreaming that you are strong like that crow and can defeat Arjuna. If you don’t get angry with me for comparing with you a crow, you

Karna parvam 19 please tell me: 1. All of you went for a Ghoshayatra. There a Gandharva fastened Duryodhana. At that time where were you? 2. When all of you went for Gograhnem, Arjuna alone defeated all of you. What you did for Duryodhana at that time? You tell me the truth. Had you not left Duryodhana at the mercy of Arjuna in all those occasions? Even Parasurama, Bheeshma, Drona could not fight Arjuna. It has been proved beyond any doubt. Even Rudra can’t fight with Arjuna. If such is the case, how can you annihilate Arjuna in a one to one fight? If Krishna and Arjuna are like the sun and moon, whereas you are like a locust.” Karna: “Selya! I know my strength as well as Arjuna’s strength. I am not going to fight without knowing my strength. While Parasurama was doing tapasya on Mt. Mahendra I became his disciple to learn archery. With an ambition of securing Brahmastra, I lied to him that I am a brahmin. Afterwards he came to know about my real caste and cursed me that I wouldn’t remember the mantra of Brahmastra and Bargava astra at the hour of my critical time. However you remember it when you are at the last moments of your life. “To my misfortune I underwent with the fury of another brahmin. While I was practising archery, one of my arrows struck the calf of a brahmin and he cursed me that “while you are struggling for life, the wheels of your chariot will sink in the ground”. However I requested the brahmin for the deliverance of his curse, but his heart did not melt and went away. I suspect that Indra must be instrumental for both these curses to help Arjuna. “Selya! Those two curses are burning my heart. Otherwise, I can kill Arjuna and Krishna also. I am remembering

20 Mahabharatam Brahmastra now. You take the chariot in front of Arjuna. I can kill Arjuna immediately and prove my superiority of archery. With the available divine astras with me, if I could kill Arjuna I might live long in this world. If the wheels of my chariot don’t sink in the ground, Arjuna can’t escape death in my hands.” On hearing the words of Karna, Selya thought in himself: “Karna knows pretty well that he is going to die in the hands of Arjuna. To cover his weakness, he is narrating me the curse of both the brahmins in the presence of several kings around him. Since I praised the glories of Arjuna, he was demoralized and confused. That is why, all his memories are coming out. I am able to fulfill the vow I made to Dharmaraja. I am seeing some bad omens in our side. Pandavas are virtuous people and their mind will always fix on dharma. Only virtuous people alone will win the war.” Samsaptakas attacked Arjuna with a big army. Kuru and Pandava armies raged against each other like Ganga and Yamuna. At that time, Duryodhana looked at Karna, Selya, Dussasana and other kings and said: Duryodhana: For those valorous warriors, today is the most auspicious day. So you consolidate all your energy and valour to eliminate the enemy. If you kill those enemies, your glory remain immortal . If we die, we will reach heaven.” Aswadhama: “King! Drushtajyumna killed my father in a sinful manner. Unless I kill him, I will not remove my shield. In case Krishna and Arjuna try to protect him, I will kill them also. “ On hearing Aswadhama’s vow all the kings and soldiers made simhanadhams with joy. Looking at the human loss, all kings thought the Pralaya had taken place. At that time, Arjuna came and attacked Karna.

Karna parvam 21 Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! Tell me the vyuhas of both the sides? Where is Arjuna fighting? Did Karna attacked Arjuna?” Sanjaya: “Looking at Karna’s vyuha, Dharmaraja was frightened and asked Arjuna, “Arjuna! Can our heroes attack the vyuha of Karna?” Arjuna said, “Brother! You don’t worry about Karna’s vyuha. Today I am going to kill Karna”. Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! You tell me how Trigarta armies fought with Arjuna. How Karna defeated Dharmaraja?” Sanjaya: “ The war did not go on as Dharmaraja expected. While both the armies were fighting with each other, Arjuna attacked Karna. Looking at Arjuna’s flag, Trigarta army surrounded Arjuna like an ocean. Arjuna killed most of the combatants and made a boundary to the ocean of Trigarta with his arrows. While looking at this battle with Trigarta’s, Selya said to Karna, “Karna! You look at Arjuna in the middle of Trigarta’s army and watch how he is killing all the armies.’’ Duryodhana took all the four wings of army in support of Karna. In the mean while Karna went to fight with Dharmaraja. Karna killed all the seven warriors who are supporting Dharmaraja. Karna killed five of their warriors. In the mean while Karna’s three sons joined him to support his battle with Dharmaraja.But, Bheema, Drushtajyumna, Sikhandi and Satyaki came with big army and attacked Karna. There was a big exchange of divine astras between them. Karna’s sons Satyasena and Susena came in support of his father. Bheema broke the bow of Susena. He wounded Karna with seventy three arrows. He killed the horses and charioteer of Satyasena. With one arrow, he removed the head of Satyasena in front of Karna. He who became furious and fought with Bheema one to one. In this battle Vrushasena lost his chariot, charioteer

22 Mahabharatam and horses. Dussasana came and picked him in his chariot. Vrushasena and Susena fought with Satyaki. Drushtajyumna, Sikhandi, Bheema, Nakula, Sahadeva and Dharmaraja collectively attacked Karna, but he fought with all of them and made them run away. Karna had a tough fight with Dharmaraja. To support him, Satyaki and Sikhandi joined and made him happy. However none of them could stand at his vigour. Karna made a severe attack on Dharmaraja, broke his bow, shield and made him fainted. In spite of that ,Dharmaraja recovered and fought with Karna. At the same time Dharmaraja couldn’t fight with Karna and withdrew from the battle field. Karna: Dharmaraja! Though you are a born Kshatriya, you are not following Kshatriya dharma. Had you known, you would not have left battle field in the middle and run away like a coward? You spent most of your time with brahmins and engaged in Vedadhyanam and performing yagnas . You are neither fit for battle nor for ruling. It is an insult for me to fight with a person like you. I am sparing your life. Go and take protection from Krishna and Arjuna.’ ’ Karna insulted Dharmaraja brutally but didn’t kill him because he had given a promise to Kunti . All Pandava armies ran away from Karna. At that time Bheema stopped them and brought them back to attack Karna. Both the armies fought whereas Karna and Bheema fought with each other. In support of Bheema, Satyaki and Drushtajyumna came and attacked Kaurava army. Bheema: “Satyaki! This sinner Karna insulted Dharmaraja in a low manner. I won’t be happy unless I kill him. Either I should kill Karna or I should get killed by him. I am going to fight with Karna. You and Drushtajyumna take care

Karna parvam 23 of Dharmaraja”. By saying so, Bheema made a simhanadham and attacked Karna. On hearing the simhanadham of Bheema, Selya said: Selya: “Karna! Bheema is coming to take revenge on you. If Bheema gets furious because you insulted Dharmaraja. He didn’t expressed his fury even when Ghatotkacha and Abhimanyu were killed. So you will have to consolidate all your energy and strength to fight Bheema.’ ’ Karna: “Selya! I know he is a valorous person. We can’t under-estimate his strength. However I don’t want spend my energy on him. I am preserving all my strength and astras to kill Arjuna. Even though I get furious on Bheema I won’t kill him. Sooner or later, I am to kill only Arjuna. Bheema became popular by killing hundred Keechakas and a few rakshasas. For me to kill Bheema, is a child’s play. You look how I fight with him.” Bheema and Karna fought bitterly. Karna hit Bheema’s chest with twenty five sharp arrows. With that Bheema became furious and threw a spear which was equal to Vajrayudha. Karna could not bear the pain and fainted. Bheema took a sword into his hands went to cut the tongue of Karna since he spoke foul words on Dharmaraja. At that time Selya said, Selya : “Bheema!He is now fainted but not yet dead. If you cut his tongue, he may really die. But Arjuna made a vow that he will kill Karna. If you kill him now, Arjuna’s vow will become unture”. On hearing Selya’s advice, Bheema remembered Arjuna’s vow and went back. Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! Duryodhana was dreaming all the time that Karna would kill Pandavas. But he didn’t prove so and thus he poured water into my son’s dreams.”

24 Mahabharatam Sanjaya: “Dhrutarashtra! At the behest of Duryodhana, Vikarna, Krutavarama and many of your sons encircled Bheema. Bheema killed your sons Upananda, Grahdu, Vikatu, and Prabhu with a spear. While Bheema was cruelly killing your sons, all Kaurava warriors became motionless. After sometime, Karna recovered from fainting and attacked Bheema. They fought with each other and wounded severely. In the meanwhile your army incited elephants on Bheema but he killed fifteen elephants by breaking their heads. While Karna and Bheema were fighting Satyaki joined Bheema. Aswadhama and Krupa came in support of Karna. Trigarta contingents surrounded Arjuna, who released severe astras on Susarma.. Krishna said, “Arjuna! We never experienced such an uncomfortable situation till now.” On hearing Krishna’s words, Arjuna released Nagastra. From that astra, several thousands of serpents came out and fastened at the legs of soldiers. Thereby the soldiers stood where they were. Krishna and Arjuna had some breathing time. Looking at Nagastra, Susarma released a Garudastra. From that astra, thousands of Garuda birds were created and took those serpents by their nose and left. With that all Samsaptakas armies were relieved from fastening. Susarma threw an astra on Arjuna. With that Arjuna became fainted. Susarma and his army felt that Arjuna was dead. With over enthusiasm, they made simhandhams. Arjuna recovered from the astra soon and released an Indrastra. With that, all the divisions of Trigarta fainted and fell down. With this unexpected event, the enthusiasm of Susarma had watered down. Krupacharya attacked Sikhandi and killed the charioteer and horses. Sikhandi got down from the chariot and while

Karna parvam 25 proceeding towards Krupa’s chariot, he rained thousands of arrows on Sikhandi. Drushtajyumna fought with Krutavarma, Dharmaraja and Upa-Pandavas fought with Aswadhama, Nakula fought with Duryodhana and Bheema with Karna. While Drushtajyumna was attacking Karna ferociously even at the risk of his life eight Panchala princess came in support of Drushtajyumna. While fighting Drushtajyumna, Karna killed all the eight princess of Panchala. After eliminating all Trigarta armies Arjuna returned to the battle field where Pandavas were fighting. At that time a voice was heard from the sky, as “Krishna and Arjuna are shining like sun and moon from the same chariot. Even Brahma or Rudra can’t defeat them. They are none other than Nara-Narayana rishis”. Aswadhama heard those words, but could not digest and said to Arjuna: Aswadhama: “Arjuna! If you want me to be your guest, you invite me for a battle. I will come and show what my power is.” Arjuna: “Krishna! Here Aswadhama is inviting me for a fight. There fourteen thousand Samsaptakas are waiting to die in my hands. You tell me what I am to do. I shall act as per your advice.” Krishna: “Aswadhama! Arjuna is ready to favour you. You get ready for a fight with him.” Arjuna and Aswadhama fought ferociously and rained astras on each other. In this battle, each one broke the other’s bow, chariot, and wounded the horses and the charioteer. Aswadhama released several arrows on Krishna and Arjuna. Since Arjuna was not retorting , Aswadhama thought that Arjuna had become weak and could not fight with him. Looking at it, Kaurava army made simhanadham.

26 Mahabharatam Krishna: (furiously) “Arjuna! What happened to your Gandeevam? Did you lost it anywhere? Are you showing mercy, because he is the son of your guru or really you lost your vigour?” Arjuna: “Krishna! I am counting the arrows of Aswadhama. He has put four arrows on us. With that, he is so jubilant as if he had won all the worlds. As you said, I have a little soft corner for him. Now since you reminded me, I will show the heat of my astras.’ ’ By saying so, he broke Aswadhama’s bow, flag post and the flag with spears. While Aswadhama was about to throw a spear and a club, Arjuna broke them while they were still in his hands. At the severe attack of Arjuna, Aswadhama became dim like a sun hidden by a thick cloud. In the meanwhile Samsaptaka armies surrounded Arjuna’s chariot. Arjuna while fighting with Aswadhama with one hand and started killing Samsaptakas with another hand. Aswadhama released powerful astras on Arjuna. Krishna said, “Arjuna! You have become more lenient towards Aswadhama and hence he became over enthusiastic”. On hearing Krishna’s words, Arjuna released a severe astra and hit Aswadhama on all his sensitive organs. Aswadhama could not bear the pain and fainted. His charioteer took him away. Dandadhara, attacked Arjuna with a big army. Arjuna asked Krishna to put the chariot before Dandadhara. There Arjuna killed him with one arrow. While Arjuna was fighting with Samsaptakas, the king Malayadhvaja was fighting with Kaurava armies. To protect his army, Aswadhama came to fight with Malayadhvaja. He killed Aswadhama’s protectors and made his chariot into pieces. Karna killed Malayadhvaja with one sharp arrow and took Aswadhama in his chariot.

Karna parvam 27 Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! The way in which you are describing, I understood that our armies have lost their credibility. You tell me how it happened?” Sanjaya: “ You listen. Now I will tell you the fresh news about the war.” Duryodhana fought with Bheema: Arjuna won the Samsaptaka armies and joined Bheema. While Bheema was dashing into the Kauravas army, Duryodhana opposed him. Karna killed the charioteer and the horses of Sikhandi and went in Nakula’s chariot. Nakula killed the charioteer of Vrushasena with a spear. Vrushasena ran away by another chariot. Sahadeva broke the chariot of Ulooka. Satyaki fought with Sakuni. Bheema killed the charioteer of Duryodhana and took another chariot. Karna fought with Dharmaraja. At that time Selya said to Karna “ You are fighting with much inferior warrior. Now our king is fighting with Bheema. It is your responsibility to save the life of our king from the hands of Bheema. That is more precious than anything else”. On hearing Selya’s advice, he left Dharmaraja and went to protect Duryodhana from the hands of Bheema.

Chapter-3 Dhrutarashtra: Sanjaya! When Karna had an opportunity of killing Dharmaraja why he left him without killing? Did he thought that Duryodhana is so weak and could not fight with Bheema? Why he went to save Duryodhana? How an responsible commander he us? By killing Dharmaraja, the war could have come to an end. It appears to me that Karna had a wicked plan in his mind. I am sure Karna committed an

28 Mahabharatam adharma. He had deliberately left a golden opportunity that had come to his hand.’’ Sanjaya: “Dhrutarashtra! Dharmaraja’s body was filled with full of iron arrows. He went home with pain and removed all the iron particles from the body. His servants comforted him with fomenting with hot water. More than his body, his mind was more injured with the harsh words of karna. He was laid on bed and repented for what had happened. He said to Nakula and Sahadeva to go and support Bheema where he was fighting alone. By the time they reached Bheema’s place, the fighting was going in a ferocious way. Arjuna was fighting with Aswadhama. However he was worried about Dharmaraja’s condition. Aswadhama threw many arrows and Arjuna made them all into pieces. Arjuna threw a club on Aswadhama and killed his charioteer. With three more arrows, he killed the horses. Looking at that Duryodhana said to Karna: Duryodhana: “Karna! You have several astras at your command. In front of your eyes, all my armies are being destroyed. Why are you indifferent? Will it enhance your glory? In fact, Pandavas can’t stand and look at you face. Even at this critical hour, should you not fight for a victory?” Karna: “Duryodhana! Don’t worry! From now you watch my valorous form. I will kill Krishna, Arjuna and Bheema. Your glory will remain immortal on earth. Now I am taking out the bow Vijayam gifted to me by Parasurama. Arjuna’s Gandeevam will become dim before this Vijayam.” Karna released Bhargavastra. That made all the worlds confused. With the power of that astra, many chariots were broken; elephants and horses fell dead. Looking at the disaster, Arjuna said:

Karna parvam 29 Arjuna: “Krishna! You look at the disaster that this Bhargava astra created. We are all feeling happy for the loss of his Sakthi weapon, but this Brargavastra in creating more disaster. It appears that he is consolidating all his energy and power to kill us. In war every one has to protect his body at times of panic. Now let us keep away till that astra becomes dim and loose its power. Then only we can attack and kill him. This is also one of the war strategies. Look at him how he is blazing like mid day sun. Krishna: “I agree with you. While we are fighting with Aswadhama, Karna wounded Dharmaraja severely. In the mean while let us go and see the condition of Dharmaraja. On our return, we shall continue the fight with Karna.’’ They saw Bheema on their way. Arjuna shouted at him by saying “Bheema! Dharmaraja was wounded while fighting with karna, he withdrew from the battle and went home with pain. Do you know anything about him? Bheema: “I saw him fighting with Karna. As I am engaged in a severe battle with Kaurava army I did not enquired. However Krishna is on our side, no damage will happen to him. Arjuna thought in himself that “Dharmaraja must have been severely wounded with the arrows of Karna. Bheema is engaged in a severe fight with kauravas. Since I wanted to buy some time from karna, my self and Krishna go to Dharmaraja. Krishna will comfort him with some good words. So we both will go to Dharmaraja”. Krishna and Arjuna goes Dharmaraja: Arjuna: “Krishna! My mind is restless to see Dharmaraja. He must have wounded severely . He could able to resist the

30 Mahabharatam arrows of Bheeshma and Drona, but not Karna’s attack. So you take me to Dharmaraja.’ ’ They went to Dharmaraja. By the time Dharmaraja was lying on a bed and moaning due to the wounds. Krishna and Arjuna prostrated at the feet of Dharmaraja. He thought that Arjuna must have killed Karna and came to inform him. Dharmaraja: “Arjuna! Just now I fought with Karna. You all know how karna humiliated me. In the presence Satyaki, Drupada, Sikhandi and UpaPandavas, he killed my charioteer and horses. He filled my body with iron arrows. Added to my injuries, he used all filthy words and insulted me. He was shining like sun with the power of astras. His speed of releasing arrows exceeded even the wind god. Fighting has became a child’s play for him. At that time, Duryodhana was caught by Bheema and was struggling for life. So he left without killing me and went to protect Duryodhana. Since the wounds are severely paining, I came home for a brief rest. Arjuna! Karna is not an ordinary human. He took all astras from Parasurama. Whenever I thought of him, I spent sleepless nights. How you are able to kill him? Offen, he used to challenge that he would kill Arjuna. Now you have shown him your power. Duryodhana and his friends had high hopes in him. I can not forget the way in which he insulted Draupadi. He only provoked Duryodhana for this big war today you killed such a bitter enemy of mine and made me happy. You poured water on Duryodhana’s hopes. In short, Karna is an embodiment of jealousy.” Arjuna: “Dharmaraja! While I was fighting with Samsaptakas, Aswadhama came with several radhikas and surrounded me. I destroyed five hundred chariots of Aswadhama. Aswadhama became furious and released a

Karna parvam 31 peculiar astra on me. With that, we lost our sight and couldn’t see anything in front of us. We were able to see only him and his chariot. I released a remedial astra and removed the illusion and killed his charioteer. At that time the horses took his chariot away. “While I am searching for you. Bheema told me that you are seriously wounded while fighting with Karna. I came to enquire your welfare. I will kill Karna and pour water on the hopes of Duryodhana. He is thinking that karna is more valorous than Bheeshma and Drona. I will go and kill him. If I don’t kill him, I will get the sin of killing a brahmin. I will get such a sin of telling a lie to a brahmin. Bheema alone can’t kill Karna. I seek your permission to go to battle field to kill karna.” From the words of Arjuna, Dharmaraja understood that Karna is still alive and became frustrated. Dharmaraja: “It is a fact that I was wounded severely. These things are common in a battle. One should have the strength to withstand and continue to fight. Since I came home with wounds, I have become lenient. To that matter Karna has not left any one free. As Agni gets the hammer beatings by its association with iron. In the similar manner, Krishna was also wounded because of our association. “Now I have no interest in winning the war or ruling the country. We are all used to live in forests and continue to lead a muni life. Let us not talk anything about valour. We leave Kshatriya dharma and accept Sudra dharma and serve any king. We shall accept whatever they give for our living. “Arjuna! You have boasted about your valour. You promised me that you would kill Karna with the strength of your divine astras. You praised me and lifted to the in the presence of our relatives. All those adorations have become

32 Mahabharatam false since you have dashed me to the ground from the sky. When did you learn all these things? Even the promises made in the presence of Krishna are reduced to the writings on water. “You had a Gandeevam which is as tall as a palm tree. You have a divine chariot, yoked by immortal horses presented by Agni and have Krishna as your charioteer with a Kapidhwajam. In spite of your divine power, you failed to fight Karna and came here on the pretext of consoling me. “Arjuna! Expect me every one knows about your valour. Karna offen claims “I will kill Arjuna” . Duryodhana said long ago that you couldn’t decimate Karna. I only believed your words. I have to curse my ignorance. How can I blame you? “I have became the reason for this colossal human loss. I was also carried away by the invisible at the time of your birth. “He will not go back from the battle field. He will kill all his enemies”. “Had Kunti given birth to a girl or to an impotent, I would have not suffered this humiliation. Brahma has written on my forehead to undergo all these insults. What you can do for my bad luck? “Arjuna! Had you told me in Dwaitavana “I an afraid of Karna and I couldn’t defeat him?” I would have not come to Kurukshetra to fight. I never thought that you are so coward. Had Abhimanyu or Ghatotkacha were alive, I would have not suffered this humiliation. Now I have become an orphan. “In the presence of all my relatives and kings, Karna had treated me like a blade of grass. While Karna was calling you for a fight, you came here to see me. What is the point of blaming you in so many words? I am neither valorous nor a competent Kshatriya. Then how am I eligible to rule this country? “You could have become the charioteer by giving your gandeevam to Krishna. He would have killed Karna by this time.

Karna parvam 33 Arjuna went to remove the head of Dharmaraja: Arjuna became furious, took out the sword and rushed to Dharmaraja to cut his head. Krishna stopped him and said: Krishna: “Arjuna! We don’t have any enemies from Duryodhana’s camp. On whom you are raising the sword? Don’t you remember that we came here to know the welfare of Dharmaraja? He is safe. Should we not be happy for that? If that is the case why are you pulling out the sword?” Arjuna: (Looking at Dharmaraja with fury) Krishna! I have a vow that I will remove the head of a person who ever say to give up my Gandeevam. Now Dharmaraja said to give away my Gandeevam to you. In that case, should I not cut his head and keep up my vow? If I fail to remove his head, should I not get the sin of telling a lie? You know all dharmas. You tell me what I am to do now. I will do as per your advice.” Krishna: “Arjuna! While looking at dharma, we have to bear in mind several aspects. Then only we can come to a conclusion. Both Truthfulness and nonviolence are dharmas. One must protect dharma with non-violence. Sometimes we should protect non-violence with untruth. This is what our elders say, “With haste you have complicated those dharmas. Without knowing the subtle nature of those dharmas. If you have resorted to kill your brother, who is our king and a well-wisher. Will there be any bigger sin than killing such a virtuous king?” “ Arjuna! In fact you must have taken this vow not knowing its consequences, while you were young. Such vows are not considered to be as vows by elders. One can tell a lie to save a life. In such cases, elders accept such a lie as a truth and truth as a lie.”

34 Mahabharatam Arjuna: “Krishna! Right from my childhood, you are teaching me all dharmas. You are more than my parents. You have averted a heinous crime. You yourself tell me a way out, thereby my brother should live long and I also I should not break my vow.” Krishna: “Arjuna! Abusing elders is equal to killing a person. So you abuse Dharmaraja in any manner you want. Thereby it amounts to killing of Dharmaraja. After completing your abuses, you go and prostrate at his feet.’’ On hearing Krishna’s advice, Arjuna abused Dharmaraja in the following manner. Arjuna: “Dharmaraja! Bheema was wounded and suffered with many wounds. He still fighting the enemies. Such a Bheema can talk in a sarcastic manner but not you. You are neither valorous nor strong enough to fight. With what moral right you can abuse me? In spite of all your weaknesses, how dare you insult me? Having spoken such words, why your tongue should not be cut into two? Have you ever exhibited your valour? Even Nakula and Sahadeva killed the enemy armies in a big way but they never ill-treated me like you. “Since you have played gambling, we lost our kingdom; we suffered many difficulties in the forest. Are you not responsible for all these suffering? In spite of all, you are finding fault with. Will it enhance your glory?. Those who cannot fight should have patience. But talking in a haughty way, doesn’t suit them. If at all they speak, they become cheap before others. Let bygones be bygones. From now on keep away from all bad habits and live like a virtuous person. All these years we have suffered on account of you. We are not prepared to suffer in future.” Arjuna abused Dharmaraja in and took out his sword again. Looking at Arjuna, Krishna said, “Arjuna! How is that

Karna parvam 35 you are again pulling out your sword?” Arjuna said, “Krishna! I abused Dharmaraja in a vulgar way. As a mark of repentance, I have to cut my head. Then only I will be relieved from my sin of abusing my king”. Krishna said, “Arjuna! This time you praise all your glories by yourself. That amounts to committing suicide. So you put back your sword”. As advised by Krishna he boasted himself as: Arjuna: “Except Siva, nobody else can win me in archery. I defeated several kings and took enormous wealth and kept at your feet. With that wealth, you performed Rajasuya yaga. I have killed many of Samsaptaka soldiers and now a small number remain. You yourself go and see how I killed Kaurava armies. You leave anger and try to be modest.’’ While saying so, he prostrated at feet of Dharmaraja and said, “oh king! Now I babbled many irrelevant talks. You don’t take any of them seriously. I am telling you the truth that as long as I am alive, I remain your servant. My life is at your feet. Why don’t you permit me to go and support Bheema, who is fighting all alone? I swear I will kill Karna and come back to you. I will see to it that Duryodhana dies in shame at your victory. If I don’t kill Karna, then Kunti will have only four sons. Either me or Karna will live in this world.” Dharmaraja: “ Of course I committed many mistakes. I played gambling and brought disgrace to our family. I made all of you to suffer. I deserve to be killed. Even though you show kindness on me, I am not prepared to stay and rule the country. Now I am going to forest and do tapasya. As you said it, a coward like me is not eligible become be the ruler. Let Bheema get coroneted and rule this country. By saying so he started walking out to go to forest. While looking at Dharmaraja, Krishna said:

36 Mahabharatam Krishna: “Dharmaraja! I am not aware of the vow of Arjuna. In a fit of anger, he must have acted in haste. You, also in a fit of distress, uttered the words which are not palatable. To get over this unfortunate situationI gave a suggestion with pain. Abusing one’s elders will amounts to killing. This is what our elders said. I touch your feet and surrender to you. You are a kind hearted person. You show kindness on both of us. You pardon our mistakes and bless us. “Dharmaraja! I am also giving you a word of honour that today itself, we will cut the head of Karna and offer you as a gift. You don’t worry about him who is going to die in a short while.” Dharmaraja pacified with the words of Krishna: Dharmaraja: “Krishna! If a fit of pain and distress. I spoke some unpalatable words. You woke me with timely advice. In spite of my short comings you comforted me with good words. You saved me from the ocean distress. Krishna! You are All Pervading Paramatma; you have to pardon me for my ignorance.” Krishna: “Arjuna! Why are you looking so pale? Dharmaraja has not only cooled down but also showered his blessings on us. You compliment him. You take permission from him and start to kill Karna and make him happy. “Arjuna! Have you ever imagined that this day, would come? By the grace of god, we are all relieved from such an unfortunate situation and averted form a great sin.” On hearing Krishna’s words, Arjuna wept bitterly and fell on the feet of Dharmaraja and asked for his pardon. Dharmaraja lifted him with both hands and embraced. Dharmaraja : “Arjuna! Karna has broken my flag, bow, horses and the charioteer. He did all these things only with

Karna parvam 37 his valour. Unless you kill such a valorous Karna, my mind will not rest in peace.” Arjuna: “Dharmaraja! I swear at your feet. Today I will kill Karna and all his associates. In case I fail to kill him, I will not show my face to you again. As long as Arjuna and Krishna are in the same chariot, Arjuna will never become weak.” “Krishna! Your sankalpam will never go untrue. In fact karna was dead the moment you thought in your mind. I will kill Karna only with the power of your will.’’ Krishna: “So be it. Oh Dharmaraja! You also bless your brother. Your blessings only will give him the strength of killing Karna.’ ’ Dharmaraja embraced and blessed Arjuna. Krishna: Arjuna! You have killed Bheeshma and Drona with your valour. Of all your victories your killing of Syndhava is exemplary. Kauravas are banking on Karna for their victory. Unless you kill Karna the passion of Duryodhana will not be drowned. With that, your glory will become immortal. Oh Arjuna! Karna, Selya, Krutavarma, Aswadhama, Krupacharya and many other Kaurava warriors are going to be killed in your hands. If you want to show any kindness, you may spare Aswadhama and Krupacharya . The relationships should not come into your way in a battle, so you don’t hesitate to kill Krutavarma and Selya also.” Karna is responsible for all the distress of Pandavas. Unless you kill Karna the passion of Duryodhana will not be suppressed. Once Karna is killed, Kauravas will surrender.’’ Arjuna: “Krishna! I will make them to surrender” While Krishna and Arjuna were talking and proceeding towards the battle field Arjuna saw that Kaurava and Pandava

38 Mahabharatam armies were fighting. In that battle one of Karna’s sons was killed in the hands of Uttamouja. Karna killed the horses of Uttamouja. He jumped from his chariot with a sword in his hand and attacked karna. Sikhandi came and took Uttamouja in his chariot. Bheema enquired his charioteer, about Arjuna and the welfare of Dharmaraja. Visoka stretched his head and found that Arjuna’s Kapidhwaja was entering the battle field. In the mean while Sakuni attacked Bheema and wounded the sholdier of Bheema. Dhrutarashtra: “Sanjaya! What Krutavarma, Aswadhama, Krupa, Karna and Duryodhana were doing?” Sanjaya: “ King! They were also engaged in fighting the Pandavas. At that time Bheema, Sikhandi, Drushtajyumna, Upa- Pandavas were fighting with Kaurava armies. Karna alone went and chased all of them. All Pandava warriors were astonished at Karna’s high spirit of fighting. In the mean while, Arjuna entered the Kauravas vyuha and killed many warriors and said, “Krishna! I am seeing the flag of Karna. You take our chariot in front of him”. Krishna took his chariot and kept before Karna. Selya: “Karna! Arjuna is coming alone; nobody is around him to support; He looks furious. It is an opportune time for you to attack and show your vigour.’’ Karna: “Selya! All these days Arjuna was boasting about his heroism. He was also carried away with the false image he had built up all these years. He claims that he has pleased Siva and obtained Pasupatastra. He also boasts that he killed many demons and pleased Indra. He often tells about the winning of Virata’s cows as one of his great achievements. He was proud of having the company of Krishna. Now his life has come to an end. You put the chariot before him.”

Karna parvam 39 On his way to Karna’s chariot, Arjuna was obstructed by Krupa, Krutavarma, Aswadhama, Sakuni and many of his brothers. Arjuna killed ten of Duryodhana’s brothers. Looking at the death of his brothers, Duryodhana sent herds of elephants on Arjuna; Bheema met Dussasana and had a direct fight Bheema: and said “Dussasana! The other day you insulted me in Kurusabha. Today you have given me an opportunity to repay your debt by taking out your life. I will drink your blood and fulfill my vow. To my good fortune I am able to meet you today.” Dussasana: Why are you digging old stories again and again? Now you fight with me, if you have any masculinity is left in you. Bheema could not control his anger. He jumped from his chariot and leapted upon Dussasana like a tiger jumps on its prey, hurled him down and broke his limbs. Bheema : “You wicked beast! Is this the wretched hand that held Draupadi by her hair? I tear out its root from your body. If there is anybody here wishing to help you, let them come forward and try!” So saying, Bheema pulled out Duhsasana’s arm and threw the bleeding limb and broke chest in to two and thus fulfilled his vow after thirteen years. He sucked the blood from his chest and drank like a hungry lion and roared, “Yes! Yes! I did it” This horrible scene made everyone shudder. Even great Karna was shocked to see Bheema in his ecstasy of wrath. “Do not flinch,” said Selya . “It does not befit to your stature. It may give wrong signals to the enemy. Ehen Duryodhana himself stood quivering in despair; it is not fit for you to lose heart. After the death of great Dussasana, the army’s hopes rests on you. You must now

40 Mahabharatam bear the full responsibility. Like a gallant warrior. You are to seek single combat with Arjuna, and win eternal glory on earth or to soldier’s heaven!” At these words, Karna’s courageous spirit woke up. His eyes red became with wrath and asked Selya drive the chariot towards Arjuna. Seeing this terrible and unbearable sight, Aswatthama said to Duryodhana, “Enough of fighting. “Let us terminate this disastrous enmity. Beloved friend! Please make peace with Pandavas. Stop the battle.” Duryodhana said “Aswadhama. Did you not heard the words that Bheema? He drank human blood and danced over my brother’s mangled body like a predatory beast? What peace talks you suggest at this paint ? Why do you speak vain words!” By saying Duryodhana ordered a fresh disposition of forces, and gave the command for attack. In this manner Bheema has fulfilled his vow by killing Dussasana and said, “Dussasana! I fulfilled one of my two vows by killing you. The second one I should fulfill by killing your brother Duryodhana.” Sanjaya : “Dhrutarashtra! Looking at the dead body of Dussasana lying on the ground, Your sons Kavachi, Nishangi, Kasi, Dhandadhara, Danurbahu, Aloku, Nousha, Shanda, Vatavyehu and Suvarchana attacked Bheema to take revenge. Bheema killed all of them in a cruel manner. After killing Dussasana, and others Bheema went in search of Duryodhana to fulfill his next vow. While your sons were being brutally killed, none of your battalions dared to go anywhere near Bheema. Selya saw the victory dance of Bheema and told Karna:

Karna parvam 41 Selya: “Karna! You look at Bheema. He killed Dussasana and drank blood from his chest. You are not a coward like other Kaurava warriors. You attack and kill as many enemies as possible. If you are lenient, Duryodhana himself might go to fight with Pandavas. Duryodhana believes that “ you are born only to kill Arjuna” and you are coroneted as the leader of our army. So you proceed and kill Arjuna”. In the mean while Vrushasena, Karna’s grandson attacked Arjuna. Arjuna broke his bow and chariot. He took a sword and cut the head in the presence of Karna. Karna and Duryodhana were traumatized at the death of Vrushasena. At that time Brahma, Siva, Indra, Devarishis and entire divine communities stood on the sky to watch the battle between Arjuna and Karna. They spoke to themselves, “This war was made inevitable. Nara -Narayanas took the forms of Krishna and Arjuna to reduce the burden on earth. So the human loss cannot be avoided. While Nara-Narayanas are fighting for one side the victory cannot go to the other side. Now we can only watch the exhibition of divine astras. So let us watch.” Karna: “Selya! If I am killed in this battle, tell me what will happen?” Selya: “Karna! I shall take over your place and continue my fight with Krishna ad Arjuna” Arjuna also asked Krishna same question Arjuna: “Krishna! If Karna defeats me, what will happen?” Krishna: “Arjuna! Let the sun fall on earth! Let the earth break into two! Let the Mt. Meru tilt! But Arjuna will never be defeated. I will not allow you to have such a distress. I shall kill Karna and Selya with one fist. Afterwards I will kill all the Kaurava armies and crown Dharmaraja as the emperor on earth.”

42 Mahabharatam Arjuna: “Krishna! I put that question to you just for a fun. I am is enough to kill all the armies including Karna and Selya. But I will not give such an opportunity to you because I am born only to win this battle. My heart is still burning with the insults suffered by Draupadi. Even if Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswaras stood on behalf of Karna I will kill all of them. I will cut the head of Karna and make you and Dharmaraja happy. You should go to Draupadi, and Dharmaraja to inform the death of Karna.’ ’ Aswadhama teaches to Duryodhana : Aswadhama: Duryodhana! Let us call off this disastrous enmity. Make peace with the Pandavas. Stop the battle. Even Bheeshma and Drona fell from the arrows of Arjuna. I don’t think that Karna is able to give you a victory. So I will go and convince Arjuna to stop fighting. He will listen to my advice. You also go and meet Dharmaraja. Talk to him to suit the situation. Dharmaraja is also a reasonable person. He may agree to your proposal and instruct Arjuna to stop fighting. Before that you instruct Karna to withdraw from fighting with Arjuna. Krishna also will feel happy with this outcome. If you listen to my words, the Kuru family will survive. The remaining kings and their armies will go back to their kingdoms. Even people also will feel happy. Don’t think that myself and Krupacharya can give you a victory. Can we bring a victory what Bheeshma and Drona could not? Even now you leave jealousy on Krishna and Arjuna. Make up your mind and stretch your hand for a compromise. You make friendship with Pandavas. Stop the battle by all costs.” But Duryodhana refused to hear his advice and said: Duryodhana: “Aswadhama! Arjuna is very much tired. Karna is more energetic. It Karna with all his fury, consolidates

Karna parvam 43 his energies and astras he can easily kill Arjuna. Let fire may hot lose its heat, The Mountains may shake, but can ever Arjuna defeat Karna? You keep all your fears aside and get ready for fighting.” The fight between Karna and Arjuna: Karna threw ten arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna cast eighteen arrows on Karna. In response,Karna released one divine astra arrow on Krishna. Arjuna became furious and filled Karna’s body with arrows. In this manner, both wounded each other. When Arjuna delivered Agneya astra, Karna cooled it down with a Varunastra. They fought with powerful divine astras. Arjuna released an Indrastra with which all the armies frightened but Karna made it powerless with another astra. Bheema: “Arjuna! You remember your past vows lories and consolidate your energy. Remember the way in which how you fought devatas at the time of burning Khandava. You conclude the battle today itself by killing Karna. If he tries to escape, I will obstruct him. So make him powerless and kill. I would have broken his head into pieces with my club long back. Because you took a vow of killing him, I did not ventured to kill him. Krishna: “Arjuna! All your astras have become useless, whereas Karna is filing arrows on your body. You consolidate your strength and kill him. Kaurava armies are laughing at you looking at your low spirit. past is past. Now I give my chakrayudha, you kill him. Arjuna became energetic with the encouragement given by Bheema and Krishna he released Brahmastra. Before it reached karna, he also released another Brahmastra. Both the astras be met each other became powerless and fell down.

44 Mahabharatam Karna sent three arrows on Krishna and Arjuna and wounded them. Arjuna casted nine sharp arrows on Selya and Karna. Karna took out Nagastra and was about to throw it on Arjuna. Selya interrupted him and said, “Karna! Your aim is not correct. You aim at the neck of Arjuna”. Karna became furious at Selya for distracting his concentration and warned, “Don’t disturb me, Will ever Karna release an arrow without fixing the target?” By saying so, he released the astra on Arjuna and said “Arjuna! You are dead with this Nagaastra”. Krishna knew that this Nagastra would certainly kill Arjuna. Tactfully Krishna pulled back the horses. Suddenly the chariot sunk in to the ground by six inches. Nagaastra hits the crown of Arjuna The Nagaastra released by karna hit at Arjuna’s crown and fell down. Arjuna covered his head with white turban. Nagaastra went back to karna. Again he casted it on Arjuna and Krishna. Krishna said, “Arjuna! This Nagastra is not leaving you. Again it is attacking”. Arjuna said, “Krishna! Who is this serpent? Why it is taking vengeance on me?” Krishna said, “Arjuna! When Agni was burning Khandava vana, a women serpent by name Aswasena tried to protect her mother. But you did not allowed her to escape and killed. That Aswasena took vengeance on you did tapasya, and became an astra and had gone to Karna. All these years he worshipped that astra with great devotion. That Aswasena is now chasing you with vengeance”. Karna was disappointed since Arjuna was not killed, by Nagastra. Karna’s chariot sunk into the ground: Yama said in an invisible form, which was heard by both sides “Karna’s life has come to end. Now the brahmin’s curse

Karna parvam 45 will comes true and his chariot sinks into the ground. At the same time parasurama’s curse also followed. With that he forget Bhargavaastra. Karna abused dhara in a confused mind and thought “A truthful person will always be protected by dharma. This is what elders say. Now that has become untrue in my case”. While karna was thinking in this way Arjuna increased the speed of his attack. With Arjuna’s attack karna released Brahmastra. So Arjuna also released Brahmastra and fastened karna’s Brahmastra. Krishna said “Arjuna! You have more energy and strength in you. Why are you giving a long rope to karna? “In the mean while karna tried to release a poisonous arrow and read mantra invoking Rudra, and suddenly his chariot wheels were sunk in to the ground. Karna understood that the cense of the Brahmin become true. He understood that he is going to die in short while. However he said “Arjuna! The wheels of my chariot is sunk in the ground. I am pulling it out. So do not release arrows on me. It is against the rules of war. You are a great archerer. You know all dharmas. I am only reminding you the rule of war but I am not afraid of you”. Krishna : Karna! When did you became a good boy! If is strange that you are talking about dharma? Did you forgot the wicked acts you did till now? You are an embodiment of jealousy, hatredness, ahankaram. Inspite of many difficulties pandavas never deviated from the path of dharma. So they always get auspicious results. Will you became fortunate by simply talking dharmas? Are you not responsible for all the difficulties of Pandavas? Are you not the architect of burning the house of wax to kill kunti and Pandavas? Did you not insulted chaste Draupadi in Kurusabha? On the pretext of ghoshayatra you tried to humihate Pandavas. Did you not conspired in killing Abhimanyu in an unritious way? Are you not responsible for all those sins? 46 Mahabharatam With the words of Krishna, the fury in Arjuna enraged and released astras after astras, broke the flag post. At the same time the chariot was also drowned into the ground. Karna tried his best to set it on ground. But it did not moved an inch. At the behest of Krishna, Arjuna fixed the arrow in his bow and said, “Had I did any tapasya, had I given charities, had I served my guru with devotion, had I always did righteous acts, this arrows should remove the head of Karna”. Arjuna removes the head of Karna: With the help of divine astra Karna’s head was cut and fell in a pool of blood. To the astonishment of all the warriors, a light came out of his body and merged into the sun rays. Sanjaya: “Dhrutarashtra! The moment Karna’s head fell on the ground, the chariot became alright . It was assumed that the brahmin’s curse became true. At the death of Karna, the Pandava armies celebrated with the simhanadhams. By the time the sun has set. “King! While Pandava armies were making simhanadhams, Selya and Kaurava armies lowered their heads in disgrace. Selya drove his chariot without Karna to the barracks and said to Duryodhana: Selya: “Duryodhana! I have seen many battles so far. But I haven’t seen the cruelty the way Arjuna did. At one point of time even Nara-Narayanas were shivering with fear at the revere attack of Karna. Whatever it may be god did not favoured Karna. Brahma himself did not give longevity. That is why, valorous Karna fell dead. “Duryodhana! Even at his last moments, his only ambition was to make you the emperor on earth. Oh king! Don’t grieve for the mishap, since god did not favoured you. But many kings gave their lives for you.”

Karna parvam 47 Celeberating the victory, Krishna and Arjuna blew their conches. The fight of karna-Arjuna remembered the fight between Rama-Ravina. When Indrajeet died Lakshmana also made similar simhanadhams. Since it was time for evening rituals, both the armies went to their barracks. On hearing the news of Karna’s death, Duryodhana cried bitterly like a child. All the kings went to Dharmaraja and complimented him for the day’s achievement. Krishna jokes at Dharmaraja: Krishna: “Dharmaraja! Even our combined armless could not have killed Karna but he was killed by your fury. Your anger turned him to ashes. With the death of Karna you have no enemy on earth. Be happy.’’ Dharmaraja: “Krishna! We can not forget the kindness. We are able to achieve what we wanted with your wessings only. As long as we have your blessings, we can eliminate all our enemies? You are the protector of all worlds. Krishna: “Good words will keep everyone happy. So you are keeping me happy with your good words. However I will tell you one truth. I am only an instrumental for this victory, whereas your brothers and brothers-in-law fought with extraordinary virile and dedication. For the sweet words of Krishna, Dharmaraja was happy and went to the battle field with Krishna and his brothers to see the Karna’s body. There he said, “Krishna! With the death of this valorous commander, my chances are becoming emperor become bright”. Dharmaraja complimented Krishna, Arjuna and other brothers and embraced them. He said that the death of Karna was a second birth to all of them. Sanjaya: “Dhrutarashtra! Today happened to be a day of highest disappointment to you.

48 Mahabharatam In a Yagna of battle every thing is Vishnumayam. Surya, Agni, Chandra are the rithwicks. Arjuna and Karna are the Yagna the battle filed is yagnavasika. Karna is an outstanding warrior. But he fought for a wrong cause and it is a tragedy. It was Lord Krishna that incited Arjuna to kill Karna when he was vainly trying to raise his chariot. According to the code of war, it was wrong. However karna would have stood an ground and continued his fight. Who could bear the responsibility for a breach of dharma except the Lord Himself ? Dhirudharashtra wept bitterly and said, “with our greed and ambition, we put a great burden on our friends. They laid their lives without a complaint attained heaven.’’ Conclusion: In this parvam, we see the finest character study of a person who had a chequered career. Karna is as an excellent example of a gifted, generous, righteous and brave person. But he was destined to die tragically, because of his loyalty towards wicked Duryodhana. Karna’s affection for Duryodhana led him, albeit unwillingly, to help his dear friend and did herm to Pandavas. Karna was aware of Duryodhana’s wicked and spiteful plots against Pandavas. Karna was also perceptive of his own downfall on assisting the evil against the good. He is criticised for insulting Draupadi in the kuru sabha and for supporting Duryodhana in dishonouring her. His role in killing of an unarmed and outnumbered Abhimanyu is interpreted as an act that more directly damaged his reputation as an honourable warrior and damned him to a similar fate. It was this deed that paved Karna’s status as a warrior on the wrong side of the war and sealed his fate, that of being killed by Arjuna in the same way, being unarmed, without his chariot and with his back turned to his killer, Arjuna. In Ramayana we see how Kumbakarna fights for a

Karna parvam 49 losing cause and sacrifices his life. In Mahabharatha also, we see that Karna sacrifices his life for Duryodhana, only to express his gratitude. He shines as an embodiment of this sterling quality.

–oOo–

50 Mahabharatam Glossary

Anjalika; Bhallam A weapon Astras Weapons Danava Titan, giant Dharma Prescribed course of conduct, Duty Durjaya Vyuha A war strategy Dwaitavana Divinity Gandeevam The bow of Arjuna Ghoshayatra Capturing cows Gograhnem Capturing of cows Kapidhwajam Flag with the figure of Hanuma embedded on it Kshatriya A man of martial caste Pralaya Deluge, a great flood causing annihilation and dissolution Rithwicks The priest who officiates at sacrifice Sankalpam Will; mental resolve Simhanadhams Lion’s road Tomaram A weapon Vyuhas Strategy Yuddha War

–oOo–

Karna parvam 51