MAHABHARATAM VIRATA PARVAM

Chilukuru Venkateswarlu MAHABHARATAM VIRATA PARVAM

© Chilukuru Venkateswarlu

Year : 2014

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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 VIRATA PARVAM CHAPTER – 1 Dhaumya consoles Pandavas: Janamejaya: ‘‘Vaisampayana! All my grandfathers were hefty and tall personalities and were as splendorous as sun. Draupadi was an exceptionally beautiful woman. Whereas their enemies, Kouravas, were searching for them to break their Agnatha vasam. You tell me how they could escape their attention and completed Agnatha vasam successfully. Vaisampayana: Janamejaya! Before completing twelve years of exile in the forest, Dharmaraja made an appeal to all the brahmins living around him. Dharmaraja: ‘‘Superior brahmins! Because of the deceitful game and due to the conspiracy of Duryodhana, you are all living with me in the forest and sharing my difficulties. Somehow the period of twelve years is about to complete. During the thirteenth year, we must live in an Agnatha vasam. During that period Duryodhana and his people will try to locate us so as to push us back to the forest. So you please bless us the completion of Agnatha vasam successfully. After completing our thirteenth year, we all meet again.’’ Dhaumya: ‘‘Dharmaraja! You know all dharmas and their subtle nature more than any one. At times even devatas can’t expose their strength and valour. So you have to be patient till the good time comes. Even Indra was hiding in Mt.Nishada. Lord Vishnu was hiding in the stomach of Aditi. When time was ripe, he came out in the form of Lord Vamana. They also waited for the opportune time to take revenge on their enemies. Even lord Yama has blessed you that nobody can

Virata parvam 7 know your identity during your Agnatha vasam, then where is the grief for you? Dharmaraja: Yama Dharmaraja has blessed that nobody come notice us during our Agnatha vasam. So let us reach the kingdom of king Virata. He is valorous and also a virtuous king. He has the nature of giving shelter for people who need employment. So let us reach his kingdom from different directions. ‘‘ I will go in the form of a saint by name Kankubhatta and join the court of Virata. I will tell virtuous stories that suits the situation and please him as his companion. Since I have the knowledge of astrology, I will guide him in foretelling the events and gain his confidence. King Virata also takes pleasure in playing dice in a friendly manner. I shall try to win the confidence and friendship of king Virata. If he wants to know about my antecedents background, I will tell him that I lived with Dharmaraja as his companion till he lost his kingdom.’’ Bheema: ‘‘Brother! For your nature and stature that assignment suits you well. I will join his court as a cook by name Valaludu. I am an expert in cooking. I will make varieties of dishes to the king. I will meet the head cook and join through him. I am also good at wrestling. I will coach the army the art of wrestling. If any outsiders come to please the king I will fight and defeat them. But I will not kill them. Thereby I create entertainment to the king and his women.’’ Arjuna: ‘‘Brother! God himself has arranged a suitable form for me to get through this Agnatha vasam. I will tell you how. Long back when I went to Indra’s court Urvasi wanted a mating with me. Since I refused her desire she cursed me to become an impotent. However Indra her kindly amended her curse by saying “her curse will be in force for one year while

8 Mahabharatam you are in Agnatha vasam. At that time Indra also made me to get trained in music and dance. So I will take the form of an impotent by name Bruhanala. I will wear sari and bangles. I will teach dance to the girls in the palace of Virata. If they ask about my antecedents, I will tell them that I was living in the palace of Draupadi, teaching her dance and music.’’ Nakula: ‘‘I am good at training horses. I will join the court of Virata as a veterinary doctor. I will tell him I bring around even the naughty horses under control and make them useful to army. I will also tell him that I will breed the horses and increase the strength of his horses. I will tell my name as Damagrandhi. If they ask my previous assignment, I tell them, I worked as a horse trainer in the court of Dharmaraja.’’ Sahadeva: ‘‘I will join as a cattle breeder. I will turn out even the barren cows as Kamadhenus. I shall make even a proud and haughty cow as mild and soft. If he asks my previous experience, I will tell them, ‘I worked as a controller of cattle in the court of Dharmaraja.’ I will tell them my name as Tantreepaludu.’’ Draupadi: ‘‘I will join as a Sairandhri to the queen Sudheshana. My name will be Malini. I will prepare ointments, perfumes and other fragrance materials for the queen. I also know the art of preparing flower garlands in different styles and different sizes.Also, I will please the queen with my ready wits.’’ Vaisampayana: Dharmaraja was very much pleased and all went in different directions to the durbar of Virata. Dhaumya teaches the code of conduct in a royal durbar: Dhaumya: ‘‘Dharmaraja! You and your brothers know everything. However your well wishers should tell a few good

Virata parvam 9 words at the appropriate time. You are all born in a royal family, brought up as princes and later became kings. All these years others served you. Now you have to serve others. Vrata is not equal to you. Hence you all have to take certain precautions before joining the durbar of a king. Even a small mishap will spoil all your struggle of twelve years’ exile. ‘‘Don’t go to see the king without his permission. You are to sit on a seat assigned to you and not as you want. Regarding the dress code and ornaments, yours should not be ostentatious or pomp . They must be very simple and appropriate to your new roles. If you become a confident of the king you should not talk without giving proper respect to him. You should not live in a bigger house than the house of your king. You should not decorate in a better manner than your king. You also should not expose either strength or pride before him. You should not wear anything identical to the garments of the king. If the king likes a particular thing, you should not ask for it. If kings are furious, they will not consider whether he is a friend or an enemy or a close relative but kill them without any mercy. They only know selfishness but they knew nothing about the fear of sin. So a courtier should not go in between his royal duties. They should not speak against them. Though you may in the good books of the king, you should not make the king to act against the wishes of the courtiers. One should not stand in front of the king or on his back. He should always stand by the side of him at a reasonable distance, in an obedient posture. One should not reveal the secrets of the palace to outsiders. If one happens to hear any near pertaining to the palace, he should think well. He should inform such news only if they are palatable to the king. Only after the king sits, his courtiers are to sit. One should not get in to the

10 Mahabharatam vehicle of he king unless he orders him to sit. If a king pleased for his services on a day, he should not feel proud of it. On another day, if the king admonishes his actions he should not get dejected. He should forget both appreciation and admonition and behave with the king as before. In case the king wants to honour a person or wish to punish a person, he should not reveal them until the king enacts them. He should forget all the duels such as heat and cold, pleasure and pain etc while obeying the king’s order. One should consider the king’s wealth as serpent. If one tries to steal, he may even lose his life. One should not develop any sort of relationship with the women in the palace. So you keep all these precautions in mind and pull on this year without any hardships. Here are my blessings.’’ Pandavas hide their weapons on the top of a tree: After Dhaumya left, Pandavas and Draupadi walked a long distance in the forest. Before they reached the town of Virata, Dharmaraja said, ‘‘Before we reach the Virata’s court, Let us all keep all our weapons in a safe place.’’ Arjuna looked around and found a huge tree spread with several branches. He said, ‘‘We shall hide our weapons on the top of the tree, because this tree is situated in a burial ground. So people will not come anywhere near the tree for fear of Boothas and Pichasas.’’ Dharmaraja agreed with the suggestion and looked around for a cover to wrap their weapons to save from the sun and rain. Nearby they found a dead donkey. They removed its skin and bundled the weapons with it. Nearby they found a dead body of a man. They put that dead body over the weapons and tied it to the branch to frighten people. Dharmaraja and Arjuna came down from the tree and made three rounds with folded hands and saluted to the

Virata parvam 11 weapons and said, “Oh weapons all these years you have secured us several victories. Now you stay where you are. Today we have no shelter for ourselves. So we are keeping you on this tree top till our agnatha vasam is completed. You should not be visible to any one except me and Arjuna. Others whoever looks at you, you should appear like snakes.’’ Meanwhile Dharmaraja made an appeal to Yama. Dharmaraja: ‘‘Yama Dharmaraja! You have given me a boon that we will be safe in our Agnatha vasam. You also bless us that our minds will always be fixed on dharma. You guide us and all our actions in a rightness manner.’’ The moment Dharmaraja prayed to Yama Dharmaraja, all their forms were changed to suit the occupations. Pandavas enter the royal court of Virata: By the time Dharmaraja entered the royal court, the king was in a Sabha sitting on his throne. He saw from a distance that a sanyasi was walking towards his Sabha. Though he was in the form of sanyasi, the splendour of his face appeared to the king as that of a Kshatriya. Dharmaraja entered the Sabha. As he entered, all the members of the court stood up with respect. Virata also came down from his throne and made him to sit on a suitable asana. He bowed his head before the sanyasi and took his blessings. Virata: ‘‘Mahatma! What is your birth place? What is your family name? Where did you lived all these years? What is your name? What brought you here? What can I do for you? Please tell me.’’ Kankubhattu: ‘‘Oh King! How many people are there to till us the facts? Every one tells what know and claims as truth. Then what is the use of going deep for more about a man? This body is jadam, made of panchabhootas. Mind is restless. How can I say truth depending on these two?

12 Mahabharatam I am dwija. I was born in kuru kingdom. I was a friend of Dharmaraja. I entertain kings to relax them. I know playing with dice. I am decided by my own people and they looted all my wealth. So I left my country and friends and adopted parivrajaka vratam. I know little bit of diplomacy and show my statesmanship at times of need. I love righteous people more them my self. Hence I live to make friendship with them. I can not associate with low minded people. You are the most righteous among all kings. So I came to serve you. I am dedicated to a virata. As per the rules of that virata, I should not move out for a period of one year. I want to stay with you till I complete my virata. After the virata I take revenge on people who cheated me. 1. Dwija : Upanayana samskaram is common for Brahmins, Kshatriyas and vysyas. So he did not uttered untruth. 2. Parivrajaka Viratam : It is a virta by which one should not stay at one place, but keeps moving. Virata: ‘‘Mahatma! By your brilliance you looks like Indra. In fact you deserve to rule this country. I am fortunate to have your presence you complete your virata here without any reluctance. My self, my brothers, my sons and my ministers will serve you. Kankubhatta: ‘‘King! I am a simple man. The oblations used in a homa are my food. I sleep on the floor. So you don’t have to make any extra arrangements for my stay.’’ Virata: ‘‘Mahatma! You can stay here as long as you wish. I am fond of dice. I shall be thankful if you play with me whenever we are free. Eversince I saw you, I developed a feeling that you are known to me since a long time.

Virata parvam 13 Bheema joins as a cook: Bheema entered Virata’s court from a different direction. He went to the Sabha and stood before the king. As soon as the king saw him, he found a super human brilliance in him. He had a big knife, a ladle and a scoop in his hand which were used in cooking. He wore a deer skin as an upper cloth. He saluted the king and said: Bheema: ‘‘King! I belong to the fourth caste. I came here to serve you. I am good in cooking. I want to please you by making several delicious dishes. There is no one in these three worlds to beat me in cooking. People call me as Valaludu. I don’t want big salary. If you provide food, clothes and shelter, I shall be grateful to you. Virata: ‘‘Valala! You don’t look like a sudra but you look like a kshatriya. I will give you a good position with a white umbrella and appoint you in my army. You be the deputy commander for my herds of elephants.’’ Valala: ‘‘King! I will not accept a job which is unknown to me. I only know only cooking. I will please you only in that art. When I was serving Dharmaraja he used to praise me for the delicious food I cooked. I can fight with wild pigs, bison’s, elephants, tigers with bare hands because. I am a good wrestler. I am teach wrestling for youth. If you keep me as one of your subjects, I shall entertain you. If you are convinced, give me the job as a cook. Otherwise I will go to some other king.’’ Virata: ‘‘Valala! Looking at your strength, I offered the post of a deputy commander. If you don’t like it, you be our cook and stay with us. You take charge of our kitchen and offer us delicious dishes. All the cooks will help. Arjuna joins the court of King Virata: After some time a man entered the Sabha of King Virata in the form of

14 Mahabharatam Bruhanala. The behaviour and the style of walking appeared like an impotent. To hide the scars on her hands, she was wearing bangles. She looked like a moon covered with mist. Moreover, she looked like Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini. Her stature, walk and talking were like a normal woman. The king and his courtiers laughed looking at her. They also thought somebody has come as an impostor to create fun and entertain the king. Bruhanala: ‘‘King! I teach dance to young children. I know singing also. My name is Bruhanala. As you are looking at me, I am not ashamed to say that I am really an impotent. I came to teach the princes in dancing and singing.’’ King Virata: ‘‘Are you really an impotent? I could not believe it. Looking at your broad chest and tall stature, gave me an impression that you are good archerer. So looking at you, I thought of making you a king. But you are expressing yourself that you are an impotent. I am greatly disappointed.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘King! I was not a born impotent. I got this stature due to a severe curse. Who can escape from the fate? It is a tale of woe. If I narrate it, it may induce the listeners to shed tears. So I don’t want to tell. Because of my impotency, I am not able to do anything worthwhile. So I learnt the art of teaching dance, acting and playing, with girls. I can make even a dull chaild an expert dancer. On hearing the words of Bruhanala, King Virata pitied at her and wanted her to teach dance to his daughter, Uttara. So he sent word to bring her to the court hall. Uttara came with her playmates and saluted her father with respect and stood by his side. He said, “Oh Bruhanala! This girl is my daughter by name Uttara. You test her dance and music.”

Virata parvam 15 Bruhanala: King! By looking at the face of this girl and the formation of her legs, I am sure I can make her an eminent dancer. She will soon become a jewel in the art of dancing. Virata: ‘‘Bruhanala! Well said. Uttara is my external life. She is fond of games. She has no discipline, so she has more interest in games than dance. Now it is up to you to divert her attention towards dance and make her a good dancer. I am putting her in your hands. From now onwards, you are her care taker. ‘‘My dear darling Uttara! I am appointing her as your dance teacher. She will be your guru. You learn from her all the nuances and intricacies in dance and become a good dancer. Unless you respect guru as god. You be obedient with your guru. Now you take her with you and take care of her. Nakula joins as Damagrandhi in Virata’s court After sometime the king went to the horse stables. Standing outside the gate, Nakula saw the king and saluted the him and said obediently: Damagrandhi: ‘‘King! my name is Damagrandhi. I have mastered animal husbandry, especially on horses. I can choose the superior horses for the king. By looking at the horse, I can tell its longevity and its pedigree. I can read the mind of horses. I am specially trained in the preparation of fodder for horses. I studied medicine in animal husbandry. I breed superior horses to suit battles. Now I am in need of employment somewhere. So I came here in search of a job.” He pointed out a horse and explained it’s age, breed it’s strength and weakness. The King was pleased and said, Virata: ‘‘Damagrandhi! I am pleased with you. You be my commander and also take charge of the horse stables. I don’t want to restrict your talents only to the horse stables.’’

16 Mahabharatam Damagrandhi: ‘‘King! I can’t accept a job where I am not proficient. If I accept your offer, I will be neither good here not there. Therefore you restrict my services only to look after your horses. As long as I served king Dharmaraja, he was happy with my services as stable keeper and treated me as his own brother. But to my bad luck, he lost his kingdom. After leaving his country, I came to know that King Virata is as pious as Dharmaraja. So I came here to serve you. Fortunately I am able to see you so soon aand too directly. If you like me, you appoint me to look after you stables only, sir! Virata: ‘‘Damagrandhi! If you wish to look after only horses, you may do so. You be controller of my horse stables.’’ Sahadeva joins king Virata as head of cattle farm: Sahadeva saw the king while he was coming out of the horse stables and went to him and saluted obediently and said: Tantreepaludu: Oh king my name is Tantreepaludu. My salutations to you. I am good in keeping the cattle growing in multifold. As I know to treat the ailments of cows and under my care, not even a single cow will suffer with any disease. The moment I touch a cow, it will start giving pots of milk. I came here with a great hope of serving you. Virata: ‘‘Tantreepala! With your pretty and well built body I thought making you as my subordinate king. By which you can develop more cows in your area. You can go on chariots.’’ Tantreepala: ‘‘King! I don’t know what you are talking. I never heard such words. My father, my grand father and bore fathers were keeping the cattle of Dharmaraja. If you give ten cows, I will make them ten thousand cows in a short time. I have no knowledge of weapons or ruling a country. So you give me a job what I know. Otherwise I will go some other king.

Virata parvam 17 Virata: ‘‘Tantreepala! If you are interested only in taking care of cows , you be incharge of all our cow herds”. Draupadi joins Sudheshana as Sairandhri: Draupadi dressed herself to suite the job of Sairandhri and went to the queen . Sudheshana saw her brilliance and astonished to believe her as a Sairandhri. The queen asked Draupad, ‘‘Who are you? Why you come here? ‘’ Sairandhri: ‘‘Queen! I was born in the sect of Sairandhris. My name is Malini. I married five gandharvas. At one time, my enemies caught hold of my hair in the presence of my husbands and insulted me. From then onwards, I was living with my husbands in the forests. I am observing the Brahmacharya vrata. I have a vow that I should continue this Brahmacharya for one more year. I came to know that you are a virtuous queen and so I came here to serve you.’’ Sudheshana: ‘‘Malini you tell me the truth. Are you a devata, a vidyadhara, a kinnara, a Yaksha or a siddha woman? Why you have come to the city? Tell me the truth. Sairandhri: ‘‘In the beginning I worked as Sairandhri with Satyabhama. The wife of Krishna. After that I served Draupadi. I know the duties of a Sairandhri. However I don’t do low jobs. So far I have not done any low jobs and in future also I won’t do. I know many combinations in preparing ointments, perfumes, and garlands and I make your liking.’’ Sudheshana: ‘‘Sairandhri! You are very beautiful. Even women fall in love with you. If you happen to move in my palace, I will be inviting my own destruction. I am afraid, if any man to see you, I will get into deep trouble. That is why, I am afraid whether I will be able to protect you or not.’’ Sairandhri: Your Majesty! Don’t have such fears. I am brought up in a disciplined and respectable family. Hence no

18 Mahabharatam evil thoughts will enter my mind about other men. My husbands are all valorous gandharvas. If any one looks at me with an evil thought, they kill them immediately. So be sympathetic to me and give a place in your palace as Sairandhri. I will satisfy with my services to the best of my ability. Whoever looks at me in a respectable manner, my husbands will worship them as god.’’ Sudheshana: ‘‘I spoke in that manner only to test your mind. You be with me in my palace as Sayrandhri.’’ Thus the Pandavas enerted their 13th as agnatavasam. They rarely met, each other but communicate with eyes.

CHAPTER -2 Vaisampayana: Janamejaya! Kankubhatta became a close friend of Virata. He was entertaining the king tactfully, depending on the situation. Whenever the king wanted relaxation, he used to play dice with him. All his brothers and Draupadi were also doing their duties obediently, patiently and skillfully. Four months passed quietly. In sharad ruthu, the king normally celebrates a festival, Brahmotshavas. Many wrestlers used to participate in that festival to exhibit their talents and to get gifts from the king. One day a wrestler came from the neighbouring country. His strength was so great that no wrestler came forward to fight him. Since there was none to oppose him, the king was dejected. Looking at the king Kankubhatta said. Kankubhatta: King! I have seen one able wrestler while I was in the court of Dharmaraja. I saw the same person, a few days back. It seems that he is working as your cook. Perhaps he may be able to fight with this wrestler. Why not we try?’’

Virata parvam 19 On hearing Kankubhatta’s words, the king sent word for the cook, Valaludu. He came to the royal court and saluted the king and stood obediently. On looking at the cook, the king ordered him to fight with the wrestler. Valaludu obeyed his order and entered the ring . Valaludu had exhibited eleven varieties of skills in wrestling and defeated him. The king was impressed very much with his skill and gave him many valuable gifts. Valaludu all those gifts obediently and distributed all those gifts to the poor people. When ever the king wanted to watch the skill and courage of Valaludu, he used to release tigers and elephants on him and ordered to bring them under his control. All women from the palace were thrilled by looking at his strength and skill. In this manner all Pandavas, in various roles, pleased the king to the best of their ability. Keechaka fell in love with Sairandhri: In this manner they passed about ten months. Pandavas were early waiting to pass another two months to complete get out of their Agnatha vasa deeksha. One day hundred Keechakas, the brothers of Sudheshana, came to see their sister. The eldest Keechaka’s name was Simhabala. He saw a beautiful woman by the side of his sister. He was fascinated by looking at her beauty. His heart stopped beating. He became still and fastened by cupid. Immediately he appreciated her virtuous parents who gave birth to her. He became restless and wanted to know more about her. He was looking around for sending love signals to her, but he could not do, since many women are moving around, when he looked at her, she was trembling like a tender leaf. By looking at her face, he did not dare to advance because he might become a laughing stock before the other servants. Finally, he thought that his sister alone could help him.

20 Mahabharatam Sairandhri also noticed his perverted intentions and hated him in mind. Her body was burning. By his cruel looks. She was confused and looked around for protection. Sudheshana tells about Sairandhri to her brother: Simhabala who was fastened with lust, could not divert his attention from Sairandhri and went to his sister Sudheshana and said: Keechaka: ‘‘Sister! Who is this beautiful girl? To which caste she belongs? How is her behaviour ? Who is her husband? From where have they come what brought them here? How much you are attached to her? She understood that her brother was caught in a bad lust. She wanted to divert the topic, so that she could hide the details of Sairandhri. However he was not satisfied with his sister’s words. He himself approached Sairandhri and said: Keechaka: ‘‘Oh pretty woman! Your face is more pleasant than the moon light. I have not come across such a beautiful woman like you. Who are you? Who is your husband?’’ Though he was putting so many questions, she did not want to talk to him and hence kept quiet. Again Keechaka said, “Beautiful Sairandhri! Your eyes are so bright. Would you lose anything if you open your eyes and look at me? Oh Sai randhsi! Your beauty will get enhanced if you smile at me. You open mouth and speak one word to me. Will you make me fortunate by touching my hand?” Still Sairandhri did not open her mouth. All the words of Keechaka throns pierced into her body. She was humiliated with his insulting words. However she thought that she was only an employee and remembered the left over period of her Agnatha vasam. Keeping them in mind she said, “Oh brother! I am only a servant in this palace. Look

Virata parvam 21 at my dress! How nasty they are! You are not realizing my pitiable state. It is not fair on your part to have lust on me. I am like your sister. You please understand my difficulty and leave this place.” Though Sairandhri expressed her helpless state, Keechaka gave a deaf ear and started describing the beauties of her organs. On looking at Keechaka’s approach, she became furious and thought unless I threaten him, he would not leave me and said, Sairandhri: ‘‘Keechaka! I have five husbands. They are all gandarvas. If they come to know that you are harassing me, they will kill you. You can’t stand before their strength and valour.’’ Keechaka: ‘‘Sayrandhri! Not knowing my strength, you are trying to threaten me. Your husbands can’t fight with me and they will be killed in no time.’’ Sairandhri: ‘‘Ignorant Keechaka! By your ignorance you are not knowing which is dharma and which is not. Long ago Ravana and many others were killed because of their lust. Not knowing all these things, you are blabbering inconsistent words.’’ Keechaka became blind with lust. He went to his sister and prostrated at her feet and said, “Sister! I am seriously in love with that Sayrandhri. You have to convince her and see to it that she accepts my love.” Sudheshana was unhappy with the attitude of her brother and said, “My dear brother! You forget this woman. Many beautiful girls will lay at your feet if you want. Why are you crazy for this woman, who is neither beautiful nor good for sex. You forget her and get some other woman. Keechaka said, “Why are you dodging me? You tell me who is this beauty. Even Indra might not have such a beauty

22 Mahabharatam in his court. Look at her eyes. They are like lotus petals. Look at her hands, how tender they are. Her voice is more sweeter than thousand koils. She must be a divine girl. Oh Sister! I can not live without her. If you don’t tell about her details, I will die at your feet. You save my life’. Sudheshana: ‘‘My dear brother! She is a married woman. By developing lust on somebody else’s wife, will destroy your glory and longevity. You know all dharmas.’’ Keechaka: ‘‘Sister! Stop teaching me morals. You tell me a way to get her. As you are delaying my longing for her is increasing. Cupid has totally taken me into his control. Death is the only solution for me. if you really wish my welfare, please convince Sairandhri. After all, she is your employee, in other words a slave”. Keechaka fell at her feet. Sudheshana lifted him and made him to sit by her side. She thought in herself “ The way in which his longing on her the is bound to die in the hands of gandarvas. If I don’t help him, he will die with mad lust on her. So in any case, death is hanging on his head.” Thinking in this manner, she said, “ You take rest. I will send her to your house to bring wine for me, you tackle her in your own way.” Keechaka was very happy and went to his house. He ordered several varieties of wines kept in his house. He ordered to make delicious foods. After completing all the arrangements, he ordered all his servants to go away and waited for Sairandhri. Sudheshana called Sayrandhri and said, “Daughter! I am suffering thirst. Any amount of water is not quenching my thirst. I need a little quantity of wine. You go to Keechaka’s house and bring a small quantity of wine for me. Take this bowl and come back soon.”

Virata parvam 23 On hearing Susheshana’s words, Sayrandhri became restless. She could not stand on her legs. Her whole body was sweating. She thought in herself, “This queen is deliberately entrusting this work to me. Because I can’t say no to her. However I can’t go alone to his place. She prayed god to get a solution. “She said to the queen, “Queen! You please depute someone for this job. This type of low jobs neither you have ordered me nor I did. Hence you send some one for this job. Though I am keeping away from my husbands, I am living under your protection. Virtuous people like you will always protect people in distress. Hence don’t force me to bring wine for you from another man’s house.” Sudheshana felt in herself, what she is doing is an righteous act. However for the sake of my brother’s, I am forcing her in this manner. However I shall ask her once again”. She again said to Sayrandhri, “ Since a long time I did not consumedly wine. Hence I don’t want to get it by a low caste woman. But you don’t consider it as a low profile. Because I like you, I am entrusting this work to you. All the more, how Keechaka’s house will become a third man’s house. Is he not my own brother?” she persuaded in several ways and made her agree to go. Sairandhri goes to Keechaka’s house: Since the queen had forced her to go to Keechaka’s house, Sayrandhri had taken a golden bowl and went to the house of Keechaka. With fear and distress, she prayed sun god, “Sun god! If I am a virtuous wife to Pandavas, I should not get any harm from this Keechaka.” Sun heard her prayers and sent a strong rakshasa to save her. That rakshasa stayed in the sky in an invisible form and protecting her. Sayrandri slowly entered the house of Keechaka and said, “The queen asked me to bring a bowl of wine from you, as she was very thirsty. If you give me the wine early, I will go away.”

24 Mahabharatam Keechaka: ‘‘Sayrandhri! You have come here to quench the thirst of your queen. After all I am her brother. Why don’t you quench my thirst also? Please do not say no. I am burning to have your grace. Why don’t you open your mouth and speak one or two sweet words. Are not you aware that I am dying with lust on you? If you deny, death is the only solution for me. Please accept my love and make me your slave.’’ Sayrandhri said with fear. “Please give the wine early. If you delay the queen may get angry. So I must go away, she must be waiting for me.” Then he said, “ Sayrandhri! You sit for a while, I will send the wine with someone else. You relieve me from the fever of cupid. I will keep all my kingdom and wealth at your feet. I will make all my wives as your servants. So you please accept me.’’ By saying so he held her hand. Keechaka chases Sayrandhri: At that moment the rakshasa who was deputed by sun god, emerged to help Sayrandhri and pushed Keechaka and she ran out from the house. As she was running with fear, the rakshasa also invisibly lived in her form. While she was running, Keechaka chased her. She unconsciously entered the king’s durbar. At that time, King Virata was sitting with his ministers. As Keechaka was drunk and blind with lust, he did not notice that he entered the durbar. When Keechaka tried to grab her hand, the rakshasa living in her, punched at the face of Keechaka. With that, he fell down and he stood up like a ball and looked around for the person who had punched him. Because he was blindfolded with blood, he could not see anything around him. He stood up and hissed like a cobra. At that time Kankubhattu and Valaludu were also present in the Sabha. Valaludu looked furiously at Keechaka for the assault on Sairandhri. He stood up like a Kala yama to kill him

Virata parvam 25 on the spot, forgetting that he was still under Agnatha vasam. King Virata also became emotional and stood up to kill him but he remembered that he is weaker than his brother-in-law and started at Kankubhatta in a state of helplessness. Kankubhatta stood up, lacking at the king and Valaludu said, “This tree is flourishing with flowers and fruits. But Valaludu is trying to cut the tree and use it as a firewood. It is not good because this tree is giving shelter to many people under its shadow. If Valaludu wants firewood, he can cut a useless tree outside.” Valaludu understood the inner meaning of his brother’s caution and kept quiet. Sairandhri noticed how Kankubhatta’s words pored water on the fury of Valaludu and wept bitterly. She stood up wiping away the tears from her eyes and said: Sayrandhri reports her insult to the king: Sayrandhri was humiliated with insult on one side and the fear of her Agnatha vasam on the other, she stood up and was looking at her husbands in a furious way, appealed to the king in the presence of all ministers and elders. Sayrandhri: ‘‘King! In the presence of you and your courtiers, I was insulted. There is no one in this Sabha to raise their voice and to say “this is adharma”. ‘‘I am a virtuous wife. I never did any sin. In the presence of so many people Keechaka had insulted me. None had shown any sympathy on me. Why should I say so many words? All my husbands are righteous people. They are born only to protect good and punish the evil people for which they learnt archery and many other martial arts. With all that they could kill the enemy easily. Looking at my insult, my husbands who are gandarvas are keeping quiet, as if nothing has happened. If that is the case, where is the protection for other house

26 Mahabharatam wives? I should blame king Virata himself. If an adharma happens in his kingdom, he is to enquire and punish the culprit.’’ Sayrandhri’s words moved the heart of Virata but he had no courage to admonish Keechaka. So he said some consoling words to her. Keechaka was annoyed on king virata and left the Sabha furiously. There was an uproar in the Sabha. Some were astonished at the unfortunate happening in from of the king. Some cursed Keechaka for his assault on a women. At that time, Kankubhatta stood up, swallowing all his hard feelings and said to Sayrandhri: Kankubhattu: ‘‘Sayrandhri! The king and the courtiers have admonished event of assault and humiliation you have suffered. So you go back to the queen’s palace and attend your duties. As you said, your gandarva husbands will not keep quiet on your assault. Perhaps they must have felt this was not the appropriate time for them to come out. You are forgetting who you are and unnecessarily blaming the king and your husbands.’’ Though Kankubhattu explained her situation, Sayrandhri was not satisfied and tried to tell something more. At that time Kankubhattu again said. “ Sayrandhri! In spite of explaining your situation, you are still dancing in the Sabha. So it is not fair to stay in the Sabha and make noise. So please leave the Sabha at once.’’ Sayrandhri: Oh Kankubhattu! What you said is right. My husband is a big actor. He is not only a big actor but also a big gambler. If that is the case, how a gambler’s wife knows a decent behavior?’’ She began to weep. While weeping bitterly, she left the hall and went to the palace. On seeing Sayrandhri,

Virata parvam 27 the queen asked her, as if she had not known any thing about her fury. Sudheshana: ‘‘Sayrandhri! What happened? How is that your body is full of dust? Why are you weeping?. Did any sinner insulted you? Tell me the truth. I will punish him immediately.’’ Sayrandhri: ‘‘Queen! You know every thing but asking me innocently. Since you have asked I will tell you everything, listen. You sent me to Keechaka’s house to bring wine but he tried to misbehave with me. I ran to the court of Virata with fear. He chased me up to the court and beat me badly. What more I can tell you?” Sudheshana: ‘‘Don’t grieve. I will see to it that he is punished. And I will make you happy.’’ Sayrandhri: Queen! You need not punish him. My husbands are capable of punishing the culprit who has insulted their wife. On hearing Sayrandhri’s words, the queen and the servants were astonished. Any amount of persuasion by the queen did not consoled her. She to take bath, and refused food in spite of repeated appeals by the queen. All the maids in the queen’s palace cursed Keechaka. While grieving, Sayrandhri thought in several ways to punish Keechaka. She felt Keechaka was a strong man and hence. Bheema alone can punish him. So she went to kitchen and met Bheema. On that night, Sayrandhri took her bath and went to the kitchen and said to Valaludu. Sairandhri: ‘‘Valala! Keechaka had insulted me. He went home and was sleeping. Here you were also sleeping. Is it because your brother advised you that this was not the appropriate time to punish him or do you want to become unkind to me?’’

28 Mahabharatam On hearing Sairandhri’s words, Valaludu asked her “what the matter was”. Then Sairandhri said: Sairandhri: ‘‘Valala! You know everything. But you are pretending as if you do not know any thing. If you want to hear from my mouth, I will tell you. She told Bheema everything. ‘‘I came out of his house and came running in to the Sabha. After that you know every thing what has happened. You have cooled down on hearing the words from your brother. What happened to your valour and strength? When I was insulted by Dushsasana in the court of Dhrutarashtra, you all kept quiet. Today Keechaka has insulted me in the court of Virata in your presence. Are you getting used to this type of insults. Even an outsider will comes out on hearing cries of a woman and the moos of a cow. While Keechaka was insulting me, your brother Dharmaraja taught me the morals. Valaludu: ‘‘Sairandhri! When I saw that you were insulted by Keechaka, my blood was boild. I wanted to kill him on that spot. The patience and caution of my brother stood before my anger like Mt.Meru. Had my brother not cautioned me, we all would have been exposed as Pandavas in the Sabha itself. That would have driven us for another twelve years of exile and people would have scolded both you and me. So we have to appreciate my brother and should not find fault with him. However we should kill him in such a manner that people should not notice us. So I will kill Keechaka and make you happy.’’ Sairandhri: ‘‘ I was neither frightened of my mother-in- law, nor of my husbands, I was never afraid of even the god. However I am afraid of serving queen Sudheshana anymore.

Virata parvam 29 Valaludu takes a vow to kill Keechaka: ‘‘Sayrandhri! Keechaka had insulted you before me, so he should not live on earth. Wherever he is hidden, even if Dharmaraja objects, even if you yourself request me to pardon him; he will be killed. Since I made a vow, it is as good as he is dead.’’ Sayrandhri came back to her residence and lay on the bed. But she could not sleep. In the meanwhile the day broke. Keechaka got up early in the morning and completed his morning rituals and decorated himself. Again his mind was wandering around Sayrandhri. He became restless. He went to Susheshana’s house and thought in himself, “The moment I saw Sayrandhri, I should request her to forgive me for yesterday’s mishap. If she really forgive me. I will embrace her.” He went to the palace and saw Sayrandhri. Sayrandhri was attending her daily duties and there were no signs of grief on her face. On the contrary, she looked brighter. Though he went nearer to her, she was unmindful of his presence and was doing her job in a carefree manner. Which raised a ray of hope in him. He went nearer her and said in a low voice, “ Sayrandhri! When do you grace me to serve your feet? Why are you so unmindful on sensual matters? Have you taken any vow to detach yourself from the sexual pleasures? What do you lose by showing pity on me? I am the admirer of your beauties. Since you are an innocent woman, you are rejecting a great fortune. If you accept me, you need not serve others. All the women will serve you.’’ ‘‘I can kill many courageous and brave kings in a moment. I am the most powerful ruler. This Virata is almost a subordinate king to me. Even if I abduct ten thousand girls

30 Mahabharatam like you, he cannot question me. You yourself said that you have five courageous husbands. Where are they? Why they are not coming to your rescue? You don’t try to behave like a fool. Wherever you go I will not leave you. I follow you like a shadow.’’ Sayrandhri said to herself, “The time has ripened. Now I can easily mend him in the way I want.” She looked at him with a romantic smile and said, “However I try to get rid of you, you are still running behind me. I noticed that you have no sense of reading others mind. You are talking all sorts of things in the name of love. Is it good to talk in the presence of others? Since you have developed a lust for me, you think that you can talk with me in any manner you like. If you keep chasing me, what others will think of me? Men don’t think any thing about their surroundings. They are interested to get their lust alleviated and mitigated first. They want to achieve their desire at any cost but women are not like that. She will not like to become a laughing stock before others. They always like to maintain secrecy in matters like this.” On hearing Sayrandhri’s words, Keechaka was overjoyed and said, “ Sayrandhri! Cupid had showered his mercy on me. Since you have opened your mind, I will not harass you any further. From now onwards, I will obey your orders. You yourself think and tell me how we go about. It is enough for me that you have agreed to my request.” On hearing Keechaka’s words, Sayrandhri said to herself, “This fool Keechaka has fallen in my trap, so I can implement my plan.” She said, “ Keechaka! After the evening and night were over darkness pervades all over. you come to Nartanasala, After sun set nobody will come that side. Even security people will not come that side. That is the proper place for us to meet. You should not tell to any one and to maintain

Virata parvam 31 utmost secrecy. So you come alone without informing any one. Whether you like it or not, you must come alone.” Keechaka: ‘‘Sayrandhri! I am your obedient servant, I will obey your orders. I come alone tonight itself but you should keep up your word.’’ Sayrandhri: King! Remember! I am once again cautioning you that you should come alone. If I see any one with you, there would be scandal. In that case, I will go back to avoid scandal. For the present, you leave this place before somebody suspects us.’’ Keechaka was very happy as Sayrandhri had come in his way. Sayrandhri went to Valaludu’s place and said: Sayrandhri: ‘‘Valala! I did my job. Now you will have to prove your skill. You should be extra careful in completing the job. If you are furious, you forget yourself and make Simhanadhams. By that if people will come to know about us our Agnatha vasam will be exposed. Thereby people will blame you and me. Dharmaraja will get hurt, Duryodhana and others will laugh at us.’’ Valaludu: ‘‘Sayrandhri! You need not tell me that in several words. I killed several rakshasas silently. I know that you did your job. Your face is an index of your success in your mission. Once he comes there, I will show my talent and I prove beyond your expectation. What you said is right. While I am fighting with my enemy, I forget myself and make Simhanadhams. It is good you reminded me. I will certainly remember your caution. I will take every care to avoid lion- like roars. Valala meets Keechaka in Nartana sala: Valala had decorated himself as a woman, covered his body in a sari. Sayrandhri went to him and cautioned that

32 Mahabharatam Keechaka was on his way. By the time they reached Nartana sala, it was pitch dark. Keechaka also decorated himself and came with joy. In the darkness, he could not notice any person before him, was a male or a female. He offered wine to Valala thinking that the figure whether Sayrandhri and said: Keechaka: ‘‘Sayrandhri! Out of love for you, I brought several valuable gifts to you. You don’t believe that normally women alone bring me valuable gifts, because those who enjoyed in my company would not relish in the company of any other man. I am such a romantic person. Only in your case, I brought several gifts. Not only that even at the cost of my life, I came alone without any security, because to keep up the word given to you’’ By saying so, he offered the wine glass to Valala who was in the form of Sayrandhri. Valala instead of accepting his wine glass, caught hold of his hand spun him in the air and dashed on the ground. He gave a hard fist on Keechaka’s throat and mouth so that no sound would come out of him. In spite of that hard hit, Keechaka, who was also a great wrestler, gave a stiff fight to Valala. Finally Valala overpowered and killed him. Valala thought that his body should not be recognized by any one, hence his head, hands and legs were pushed inside his trunk. Thereby only trunk was appearing externally. He looked like a packed rice bag for the onlookers. He pulled him out to the moon light and had shown him to Sayrandhri and said, “Oh Sayrandhri! I did my job without any sounds or without breaking our vow of Agnatha vasam.” Looking at the bundle of flesh, Sayrandhri said: Sayrandhri: ‘‘Keechaka! You made a big noise for the last two days, only to die in this form? Even now are you in peace? Remember whoever show or express lust on other’s wife will get the same fate as you.

Virata parvam 33 Valala: ‘‘Sayrandhri! I have removed the burden of your insult and killed him in your presence. Is your anger appeased? Are you free from your grief? Whoever looks at you with a wicked mind, all will die in my hands.’’ Sayrandhri: ‘‘Valala! Though you controlled your anger in the court of Virata, you have proved your fury in this Nartana sala without the knowledge of a third person. Once again you proved your valour. You did it without the help of any of your brothers. You have killed the most valorous wrestler in this world. Nobody has killed and left the dead body in this form till now. Your glory will remain forever. You have relieved me from all my grief and I am so happy now.’’ Valala heard Sayrandhri’s words and asked her to go away without anybody’s knowledge. Valala also left for his place.

CHAPTER- 3 Valala kills Upakeechakas: Janamejaya: ‘‘Vaisampayana! Tell me what had happened after Keechaka was assassinated.’’ Vaisampayana: ‘‘Janamejaya! After killing Keechaka Valala went to his place, had a bath, applied perfumed sandal to his body, so as to avoid any foul smell. He lied down in his bed but he did not sleep. After Valala left, Sayrandhri went out of Nartana sala and called security people and said, “Soldiers! My gandarva husbands have come and killed the sinister Keechaka.” On hearing Sayrandhri’s words, soldiers took torch in their hands and ran to the place, where Keechaka was lying dead. They went and informed Upakeechakas. They came running, fell on his body and cried. They were all censured to look at the body shape and afraid to think of the valour of his

34 Mahabharatam opponent. One of his brothers said, “The way in which our brother was killed is a disgusting. If people come and look at him, we would have to lower our heads in shame. So it is better, if we cremate his body before sun rise. Then only, people won’t come to know about his death.” All other brothers agreed to cremate him before dawn. In the meanwhile, one of them saw Sayrandhri standing little away from them. Their fury doubled by looking at her and one among them said, “Our brother wanted to have this woman while he was alive. But he could not fulfill his desire and dead. So let him have this woman in the other world. We will tie up this woman also with the body of our brother and cremate. At least by this, the soul of our brother will rest in peace. However let us go and inform King Virata about cremating sairandhri by the side of our brother.” One of them went to king Virata and said, ‘We thought well and decided to cremate Sayrandhri also with our brother. We have come here to inform and get your consent for the same.’’ Virata thought in himself, “The woman from the palace should not be cremated alive which is adharma. These fools won’t listen. Let fate decide the future course.” While thinking in himself, he said “You do what you think best.” The Upakeechakas took his disgusting word itself as his consent and went to the burial ground to cremate his brother with Sayrandhri. The Upakeechakas took the consent of the king and tied Sayrandhri, the virtuous wife of Pandavas to the dead body of Keechaka and proceeded to the cremation. On her way, Sayrandhri started crying loudly. Sayrandhri: ‘‘These Upakeechakas tied me to the dead body of Keechaka and are carrying me to the cremation ground. I am being insulted and humiliated. All my husbands are very

Virata parvam 35 powerful and valorous. Why none of them are coming forward and rescue me? Oh Jaya! my virtuous husband! you save me form this insult. Oh valorous Jayantha! Relieve me from this humiliation. Oh Vijay! You are known for killing all your enemies, why don’t you kill these sinisters and save me. Oh Jayatsena! You kill these enemies and save me. Oh Jatatbala! If you all make up your mind, you can do however difficult it might be. You all have the valour even to kill Yama. Warriors! You are so kind even if your enemies come and seek protection, you protect them. You are so virtuous, even you give up your own life to protect others. Oh superior gandarvas! These Upakeechakas are trying to put me in the flames with the dead body of their brother. Valala came to the rescue of Sayrandhiri: Valala heard the cries of Sayrandhri. He thought she was in danger and if he had to go to her rescue and save her. “If I go out from the main gate, somebody might see me, so I jump over the compound wall and reach the cremation ground. “In the light of torches he found all the Upakeechakas. He went ahead of the procession and stopped all of them. The security and Upakeechakas were afraid and ran away shouting, “ Again gandarvas have arrived.” By saying so, they ran away, leaving the dead body and Sayrandhri. He went to the dead body and released Sayrandhri and asked her to go away to the queen’s palace. After she left, he chased all the Upakeechakas and killed them. Again he jumped the compound wall and entered the kitchen. King Virata was informed that all the Upakeechakas were killed. He went to the palace of Sudheshana and said: Virata: ‘‘My darling queen! This Sayrandhri is too beautiful. If any man looks at her he is actually inviting his own death. I don’t dare to face her directly so you tell her to leave the palace. It is dangerous to keep her in the palace. So

36 Mahabharatam you talk to her in a tactful manner and see to it that she leaves the palace immediately. You are the only person who can do this job”.’ Sudheshana understood the gravity of the situation. She also thought that Sayrandhri was to be sent away. Next morning Sayrandhri went to the palace of Sudheshana to attend to her duties. On her way she went through the kitchen, saw Valala and said: Sayrandhri: ‘‘I am grateful to my gandarva husband who has saved me from the trap of Keechaka’s. I respectfully thank for that virtuous gandarva and serve him for the rest of my life with devotion.’’ Valala: If one’s wife is caught in danger, is it not the duty of her husband to save her? If one does not respond, will there be any masculinity remains in him? Is it not unjust to keep quiet? Since your husbands are the most superior persons, they did what you wanted. You are also so virtuous and chaste lady. Sairandhri goes to Bruhanala: From there Sairandhri went to Nartana sala to see Bruhanala. In the meanwhile all the girls in Nartana sala surrounded Sairandhri and said, “ Sairandhri! You taught a good lesson to the person who harassed you. You killed Upakeechakas also. In fact, god alone punished them all in right manner. We are told that all your gandharva husbands will protect you in an invisible form.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘ Sayrandhri! We all heard the difficulties you have faced. All our sympathies are for you. Tell me what happened?. How so many Keechakas were dead in a small time?. I want to hear from you.’’ Sayrandhri: ‘‘Bruhanala: You are happy with your students. What do you care for Sayrandhri? Had you any sympathy for me? Are you ridicule me?’’ Virata parvam 37 Bruhanala: ‘‘Sayrandhri! How can I be happy, if you are in troubles? Unfortunately being an impotent person I am not good for fight. Though I have sympathy for you, in what way that will benefit you? I know you are a virtuous wife of gandarvas. However my heart drowned in an ocean of sorrow.” Sayrandhri: ‘‘Don’t feel embarrassed. Who else know about you, better than me? I have to go to queen and console her. As she is in deep grief for the loss of all her hundred brothers overnight. After speaking to Bruhanala she went to the queen’s palace to console Sudheshana. On looking at Sayrandhri, the queen welcomed her cordially and made her to sit by her side and said: Sudheshana: ‘‘Sairandhri! You are the most beautiful woman. Looking at you no man can control his lust. Hence the king has asked you to go and serve in another place. Since your gandarva husbands are valorous, you are killing all men whoever looked at you. People are afraid even to look at you. So it is the humble request of our king. You leave our city as well as our country. Please do not treat this as the king’s order but it is his request.’’ Sairandhri: ‘‘Queen! All these days I am under your care. If you can spare me for another thirteen days I will complete my vrata and my desire will be fulfilled. All my husbands will accept me after my vrata. Not only me you also will enjoy the greatest happiness of your life. My husbands are so good, whoever does good, they will reciprocate with gratitude. It is their nature to do good to others. They will not leave this country without doing great help to the king and his people. So Queen! Don’t get distressed. Believe me.’’ On hearing the words of Sairandhri, Sudheshana said, “If that is the case you stay for those thirty days and complete

38 Mahabharatam your vrata. Till such time, you help my husband, my sons and my daughters.” On hearing the queen’s words, Sairandhri was happy and continued to do her job. People were talking among themselves. “Keechaka was the most valorous person and he used to be very helpful to the king. Since he is dead now, our king has become weak.” This story was spread all over the country. Duryodhana engaged spies to identify Pandavas: Duryodhana engaged spies to search and find Pandavas whereever they were. They went and searched all places on earth and reached Hastinapura and reported to Duryodhana. By the time they reached Hastinapura, Duryodhana was in his durbar. The leader of the spies: ‘‘King! As per your orders we went to search and find Draupadi and Pandavas. There is no stone unturned in our efforts. In a forest we have chased the marks of their chariots. Those marks led us to Dwaraka. There at Dwaraka we searched inch by inch for Pandavas but could not find them. However on our way back, we l heard a strange story. Kindly listen. ‘‘Kouravendra! Keechaka the brother-in-law of king Virata, tried to insult a virtuous lady in the palace of Virata. That chaste woman had five husbands, who were all gandarvas. When Keechaka tried to abuse her modesty, all gandarvas became furious and killed him on the same night. They did not used any weapon in killing him. The most astonishing aspect was Keechaka’s legs and hands were pushed into his trunk and his head was pushed into his chest. In all that dead body had remained as a bag full of flesh. The method they chose to kill Keechaka, people were talking, except gandarvas nobody could have killed a person in that manner. Not only that those gandarvas had killed all his ninety nine brothers on the same Virata parvam 39 night. People are telling this story in all countries. Oh king! Now give us further instructions to search for Pandavas. Duryodhana: ‘‘Ministers! Pandavas may complete their Agnatha vasam. Any time they may come and ask for their kingdom back. Hence before they come and ask, we must identify them and make them to live in forest for another twelve years. So you tell me how we can catch Panadavas before their Agnatha vasam is completed.’’ Karna: ‘‘King! You ask our spies to make one more effort all over the earth.’’ Dushsasana: ‘‘There is no need to search for Pandavas. for the past twelve years there was no proper shelter or food, they must have dead by this time or some cruel animals must have eaten them. So there is no need to break your head for Pandavas. You continue to enjoy their kingdom also. There will not be any claim from them. You be rest assured that the Pandavas will not come and claim you for their kingdom. Dronacharya: ‘‘Duryodhana! Pandavas have the superior qualities of kshatriyas. They respect elders. All the Pandava brothers are always united and affectionate to each other. Since they are all virtuous, they have plenty of divine grace. So it is ignorance, if any one thinks that they would have died of hunger or weakness. If anybody thinks like, downfall that he is inviting his own. So you send all your spies in all the directions .’’ Bhishma: ‘‘Drona! You are right. Only you said the real nature of Pandavas. They have the strength, courage, valour, knowledge and also divine grace. Such virtuous people will never entangle in difficulties. In fact both Kouravas and Pandavas are equal to me. Since Duryodhana asked me I felt it is my duly to express my views with out any fear or favour.

40 Mahabharatam ‘‘The Punyam of Dharmaraja will never destroy. He is the most righteous person in the world. Where ever he might be now living, those people in that country will be righteous in nature. They not only worship virtuous people but also will be giving huge gifts. Those people are patriotic and will have control on senses. They earn wealth in a righteous manner and live in peace. One more important aspect of identifying Pandavas is that whereever Dharmaraja lives, the cow herds will grow by leaps and bounds. All those cows will yield huge quantities of milk throughout the day. ‘‘Hence you send your spies to all those countries and search keeping in view of the above qualities. If they could locate before the due date, all your efforts became waste.’’ [ In this context Bhishma was in a big dilemma because both Pandavas and Kouravas were equal to him. If he suggests the stratagem to Duryodhana it will do harm for Pandavas. In case if he doesn’t reveal knowing fully well, he will get a sin of telling a lie. Dharmaraja is a great hero and virtuous person, all his personal faculties will be inherited by the people of that land. Dharmaraja’s personal faculty will not reveals by way of prosperity of the people, but also his influence reflects on the nature. Here Bhishma meant was by virtue of the symptoms of his body will becomes the tatwam of nature also. He said wherever Dharmaraja lives, there the cow herds will grow in leaps and bounds. That means the cattle and agriculture will be flourishing in that country. For Indians, cow is a symbol of Vedas. Four springs of milk are said to be Chaturvidha purusharthas. The principal object of human life and pursuit of which four are enumerated, i.e. Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. Therefore the cows milk is the way of life for Indians. The heating of milk means living in spiritual thoughts. The cream of the milk is the nature of spirituality.

Virata parvam 41 The curd that is made of milk represents the mundane and the spiritual knowledge . To churn the curd means acquiring sadhana Chatustayam. The butter that comes out of churning relates to the philosophy which is the fruit of the real spiritual knowledge. Eating such butter is an experience. Hence wherever dharma prevails, there we find all these symptoms.] Krupacharya: ‘‘Duryodhana! You must catch Pandavas on war footing. Otherwise war may break. I will tell you how. Pandavas have completed their exile successfully. Now they are under Agnatha vasam. That is also coming to an end very soon. All the Pandavas are angry with our king. So any time they may declare an expedition of war on Indraprasta. Though the enemy is weak , the king should not neglect him. In the case of Pandavas, you should not fall asleep. All these years, we were fully involved in improving our wealth and totally ignored the search for Pandavas. ‘‘Now we must equip ourselves to face a big battle with our enemies. For which we have to make friendship with all the kings. We have to make arrangements for a compromise wherever it is needed. So we should not be lethargic in this matter. Assuming that all the Pandavas are dead by now, even then making friendship with the fellow kings in the country is no harm. [Krupacharya suggests that a compromise formula would be better even if Pandavas completes their Agnatha vasam. In other words, he is indicating that it is difficult for Duryodhana to locate and identify Pandavas. Because all Pandavas are angry with the king, they may declare a war also. In that case, we should not keep quiet, till the last minute without making war preparations.] Duryodhana: ‘‘In the entire country, there were only four well noted wrestlers whom no one can defeat. They are

42 Mahabharatam Keechaka, Bheema, Salya and Balarama. Both Salya and Balarama are far away from the place where Keechaka was dead. So there is no chance of killing Keechaka by them. So that virtuous woman must be Draupadi. Her gandarva husband must be Bheema. Except Bheema, nobody else could have killed all Keechakas in one night. ‘‘Not only that, the conditions narrated by our Bhishma pitamaha are prevailing in the kingdom of Virata only. That Virata alone is expressing enemity with us. So if we catch hold of all his cow herds, then Dharmaraja and his brothers will come out in defense of Virata. Then we can spoil their Agnatha vasam and we can force them for another period of twelve years of exile. Thereby we can continue to enjoy their kingdom also forever. If Pandavas are not there and they don’t come in defense of Virata, we take possession of all the wealth of Virata. If you agree to this game plan, we shall proceed. Susarma was the king of Trigarta. Though he was a king, he did not develop much acquaintance with Duryodhana. So he took the support from Karna and Dushsasana and said to Duryodhana: Susarma: King Duryodhana! I am the king of Trigarta, which is a neighbouring country of Virata. Long back, Keechaka had defeated me with the help of Kekaya and Salva kings. Since then, I was looking for an opportunity to take revenge on Virata. If you permit me, I will attack Virata’s kingdom from all sides and loot his wealth. Give me an opportunity to take revenge. In case Pandavas come out in support of Virata, I will catch them and hand them over to you.’’ On hearing the words of Susarma, Duryodhana looked at his courtiers for their opinion. Karna: ‘‘What ever the king dictates that will become a rule and all our elders will obey it. So you decide.’’

Virata parvam 43 Duryodhana: ‘‘Dushsasana! All elders in this Sabha have given their consent. You consolidate all your army. First, the army of Susarma will attack from the southern side of Virata. The next day, our army will attack from the northern side of Virata. This eighth day of new moon Susarma will attack, on the ninth day of this new moon, we will attack . Susarma attacks from south: Taking the orders from Duryodhana, Susarma moved his army to the south of Virata and started cornering all the cow herds of Virata. The cow keeping yadavas were astonished at the sudden attack from Susarma. In a short time they reconciled themselves. Though they were yadavas, they picked up sharp weapons and chased the army of Susarma. Susarma had employed horse battalions on yadavas and killed many of them. Some of them ran to the Virata and informed the attack of Susarma. King Virata was surprised to hear how Susarma attached? Virata: ‘‘Commanders! Keep all our armed forces ready to counter the attack of Susarma. You also keep ready my chariot so that I can personally lead the battle.’’ His brothers Sateenaka and Madiraswa also accompanied the king. While Virata was about to board his chariot Kankubhattu came and said: Kankubhattu: ‘‘King! Long back a maharishi had initiated me with a mantra. By the power of that mantra, I mastered the art of archery. Since you yourself is moving to the battlefield, I don’t feel like sitting at home. Hence you may kindly arrange a chariot for me. I can run the chariot by myself and also fight. ‘‘Beloved King! While I was serving king Dharmaraja, Our Valala was also there in the court of Dharmaraja. He knows all martial arts. In the same way our Tantreepala and

44 Mahabharatam Damagrandhi also have proved well in fighting the enemies. If you can provide chariots for them, they will also come with us and fight the enemy. All these days we lived comfortably under your protection. Now since you are facing a war with the enemies, we feel it is our duty to give our helping hand.’’ On hearing Kankubhatta, Virata was very happy and called his brother to provide four chariots for them. While Virata’s battalions were moving fast, the earth was quaking. Both Virata and Susarma’s armies fought with each other. Both the armies fought very ferociously. King Virata and his brothers attacked Susarma. By that time, the sun was set and the battle was stopped. Next day morning again, the battle resumed. At one point, Susarma caught hold of Virata ,and kept him as captive. The army and the soldiers of Susarma were happy with their capturing king Virata. At that time Dharmaraja said to Bheema: Dharmaraja: ‘‘Bheema! Now you go and defeat Susarma and his army and bring back Virata. Know it well saving our king is saving ourselves. So run fast and bring back our king.’’ Bheema: ‘‘Dharmaraja! I am waiting for your orders. You just watch from here. I will pull out few trees and kill the army of Susarma.’’ Dharmaraja: ‘‘If you fight with the trees, they will come to know that you are Bheema. Nakula and Sahadeva will guard you from both sides. You do the conventional way of battle with arrows, swords and club . Pandavas defeat Susarma: Bheema gave word to Dharmaraja that he would wage war in a conventional way and ran towards enemies side. Bheema broke two thousand chariots into pieces. Nakula broke

Virata parvam 45 seven hundred chariots and Sahadeva three hundred chariots. Dharmaraja killed thousand heroes who were fighting from their chariots. Dharmaraja ran towards Susarma and gave a tough fight. On seeing Dharmaraja’s attack on Susarma, Virata was very happy and felt as if he had won the battle. With that strength, he beat Susarma with his club. In the meanwhile Bheema entered the chariot of Susarma, caught hold of him and fastened him with ropes and made a big lion roar. On hearing the big lion roar of Bheema, Susarma’s army trembled and ran for safety. On seeing, Dharmaraja and his brothers Virata was very happy and said to Dharmaraja, “ Kankubhattu! You have saved my life and prestige also. For the help you did, in what manner I can repay? So I am leaving the entire wealth to you. You enjoy yourself. You take my kingdom and rule the country. It is enough if you make me your confident.” Dharmaraja: ‘‘King! Out of love and affection, you are praising me. In fact what we did for you is our duty.’’ Virata: ‘‘Kankubhattu! I am not only astonished of your valour but also my respect has been doubled. You have exhibited an unusual expertise in war. Is it your generous nature? Or you wanted to exhibit your valour or did you take so much of risk because of your friendship? I am not able to judge you. ‘‘ Valala killed the enemy’s army which fell on him like an ocean. The valour of cook, surprised the king. He thought in himself that he had not come across such a strong cook anywhere. In the same manner, he also appreciated the valour of Damagrandhi and Tantreepala in archery. Valala fastened Susarma and put before the king. Dharmaraja orders to release Susarma and his army: Kankubhatta: ‘‘We are all your subjects. All these days you have honoured us and gave shelter. We did our little bit at

46 Mahabharatam the hour of your need. For this, is it fair on your part to treat us an outsiders? However if you want to honour us, you do what you want. However I am making a request to you to make Susarma and his men free, by this your glory will enhance. Oh king! Send a messenger to the palace and let him inform the victory of the king.’’ As suggested by Kankubhatta, Virata announced freedom to Susarma and his men and warned him. He sent messengers to the city to inform the palace about their victory.

CHAPTER 4 Uttara Gograhanam: Janamejaya: Vaisampayana! This is very interesting to hear. Tell me what has happened on the next day. Vaisampayana: On the next morning a big army of Kouravas attacked Virata’s kingdom from the northern side. Bhishma, Drona, Karna and many other notable warriors were the army. The army captured several cow herds and had beaten the shepherds. Those shepherds ran to the city to inform the king about the attack of Kouravas. The yadavas herders: Prince! Kourava army attacked our country and was capturing all cow herds. They were beating the yadavas and the villagers indiscriminately. Their army consists of chariots, elephants, horses and huge infantry. They were using several weapons like bow and arrow, swords, tomarams and chakras. Prince Uttara Kumara: Oh yadavas! Don’t be frightened. I can drive all those Kouravas in a minute. It is god given opportunity to show my velor. None of them can remain in our land. But unfortunately all charioteers were want with by

Virata parvam 47 my father. Without a charioteers, I can’t fight with such a big army. Oh ministers! You all go and bring a charioteer so that I will go and kill all Kouravas. I heard the valour of Bhishma, Duryodhana, Karna and many other archers. It is my good fortune that all of them came so that I can show my valour and drive them out. By looking at my bravery, they may even mistake of me as Arjuna. I will drive them out and come back with all our cows.’’ When Uttara Kumara was seriously comparing himself with Arjuna, Sairandhri was retiled with this crude joke. So immediately she went to Bruhanala and informed him about the blabbering of Uttara kumara. Bruhanala said: Bruhanala: Sairandhri! I calculated, our Agnatha vasam term is completed days ago. You go and tell Uttara kumara that “Bruhanala has agreed to be your charioteer”. You tell him that Bruhanala worked as a charioteer for Arjuna at the time of Agni burning the Khandava vana. Even if he expresses some doubts, you may convince him suitably and see to it that he will take me as his charioteer. Sairandhri went to Uttara Kumara and told him that. Bruhanala has agreed to be his charioteer. But Uttra Kumara just laughed and refused to take him his charioteer. Sairandhri: ‘‘Uttara Kumara! Due to the reasons beyond his control, there were some changes took place on his body. Simply because of that, will you ignore his valour, strength and capability? If Bruhanala is your charioteer, you can win all the worlds. Uttara kumara reluctantly agreed to accept Bruhanala as his charioteer, Uttara and Sairandhri went to Bruhanala and said:

48 Mahabharatam ‘‘Guru Deva! Kouravas are attacking from the northern side. They captured all the cow herds. Since he did not have a charioteer, Uttara Kumara was not able to go to the battle field to protect the country. Sairandhri told that you are an expert charioteer. Hence I request you to be a charioteer to my brother and save our country. Since you are my master, I am making a personal request. So be affectionate towards me and accept to be as the charioteer to my brother. Bruhanala said, “Oh princess! I don’t know whether I had so much of skill in running a chariot or not, I am accepting it for your sake.” Uttara kumara accepts Bruhanala as his charioteer : Bruhanala: ‘‘Prince! While going to a war, you are taking an impotent with you, if you want me to entertain, I can show my talent either in dance or song. Why are you forcing me to go for a war?’’ Uttara kumara: ‘‘Bruhanala! Don’t tell me stories. I heard your talent in controlling the horses. You get in to the chariot. In the meanwhile I will equip myself, by wearing the shield and come back.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘Prince! If you want to defeat your enemies you exploit all my vigour, valour and skill. You listen what all I say. Don’t ask any questions. If you listen to me, victory will be in your pocket.’’ Princess Uttara: ‘‘Brother! You are going to the battle only to win , while returning you get me cloth from the turbans of the defeated warriors. I will use them to decorate my dolls and make a Kolu.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘Princess! Your brother will kill many Kourava warriors and come back with victory. He will bring heaps of turbans and coloured stones as you desired.

Virata parvam 49 Uttara Kumara boarded the chariot and while Bruhanala was about to start, virtuous women came in front of them and brahmins recited Veda, mantras and said “Oh Bruhanala! Long ago the way in which you ran the chariot of Arjuna, now also you control the horses in the same manner for Uttara kumara and bring him victory. On his way to the battle field, he drove the chariot towards the burial ground. Uttara kumara was frightened by looking at Kourava army: By looking at the ocean of Kourava army, Uttara kumara lost hopes on life. He started shivering and his throat became dry, with great difficulty he said to Bruhanala: Uttara Kumara: ‘‘Bruhanala! The Kourava army is looking like an ocean. Bhishma, Drona, Krupa and other warriors looks like divine persons. Can I alone fight with those heroes? In addition to them, there are many more fighters such as Saindava, Karna, Duryodhana and others. I can’t fight with them. I want to save my life, take back the chariot to our palace.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘Uttara kumara! I am not a mad man to ask you to fight with such a big army. We will fight with a few of them, get back our cows. If we go without fighting all the women in our palace will ridicule, disgrace and lampoon us . Uttara kumara: ‘‘Bruhanala! My throat is getting dry. I am not able to talk. I don’t want those cows. I am not bound to satisfy women in the palace. It is enough for me if we both save our lives. You drive back our chariot.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘Prince! Unless we fight, how can we assess the strength of our enemy? At least we go round and look at the great warriors in close quarters, for which they will not kill us. So don’t get frightened.’’

50 Mahabharatam Uttara kumara: ‘‘Bruhanala! Susarma, the king of Trigarta, had attacked our country from the southern side. The king had taken all the army with him. Even if we run away, there is one to help us in the city. So you return the chariot.’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘If you runaway like this, even enemies will laugh at us. Sairandhri has already told you about me. Now also you keep faith in her words, come with me and attack the Kourava army. Let us both fight to get back our cows.’’ Uttara kumara: ‘‘Why are you not taking my orders and taking back the chariot to our city? What do I care for the people if they laugh at me? If you feel like fighting, you go and fight alone. You may lose your life, I warn you! By saying so, Uttara kumara threw his bow and arrows and jumped on to the ground and started running. Bruhanala also jumped from the chariot, ran behind and caught him. The Kourava army looking at Uttara kumara laughed at him. But some of the army who knew Arjuna found a strange difference in the style of walking of an impotent person and doubted in themselves, “By any chance is he Arjuna?” Because he has certain attributes of feminine and masculine forms mixed in him. In one side he is looking valorous and on the other side, he has delicate and soft form with an awkward look.’’ They saw the symptoms of a great hero in him. Perhaps Pandavas might be undergoing their Agnatha vasam in the court of King Virata. Otherwise can any one dare to face this ocean of Kourava army alone? Since all the army was engaged in the southern side, this hero must have come with this impotent form.’’ In the meanwhile Bruhanala ran behind Uttara kumara and caught hold of him. He looked at the face of Bruhanala and requested in a distressed tone “Oh Bruhanala! You keep

Virata parvam 51 the chariot with you, let me runaway . If you leave me alone I shall give you hundred gold coins and several valuable stones, horses and elephants and a few villages as gift. Please show kindness on me. I want to go and see my mother.’’ Bruhanala made Uttara kumara as his charioteer: Bruhanala pacified Uttara kumara in several ways and told him not to be afraid by looking at the army of Kouravas. Bruhanala: ‘‘Prince! You be my charioteer and I will fight with the Kourava army. You just watch how I win this battle! From a long distance Bhishma, Drona and others looked at Bruhanala. Drona said to Bhishma: Drona :‘‘Bhishma! He is looking like an impotent person. But in his brilliance he is shining like sun. He is as sturdy and tall as Arjuna. Added to this, we are seeing so many bad omens. This impotent person is venturing alone against us without any fears. We are not able to guess what he has got in his mind.’’ Bhishma said to Drona and Duryodhana with double meaning: Meant for Duryodhana : ‘‘We have crossed a point which is advantageous to enemies. In other words, it is disadvantage to us. However we need not worry about the enemy since the time has ripened to show our valour.’’ Meant for Dronacharya to understand: ‘‘This is advantageous time for our enemies. That means the period of Agnatha vasam is completed. Arjuna has come out with his courage and valour. He has no more fear of Agnatha vasam. Dronacharya understood that the Agnatha vasam period was pandavas was completed and breathed with relief. However he said, “Oh Bhishma! This lion was in a cage for a long time. It appears to be very hungry. After completing his

52 Mahabharatam Agnatha vasam Arjuna is jumping at the army of Kouravas.” Karna: ‘‘Dronacharya! Since Duryodhana is respecting you, you are talking Do you think that you are the only hero on Kouravas side? As you became old, your pride, your strength and skill of archery also ran down. Arjuna is not such a great hero, if he comes in front of me, I will kill him and keep Kourava army happy. Duryodhana: ‘‘Karna! Why are you so furious? We do not know the person who is coming alone against us. If he is Arjuna, it is what we wanted. We need not defeat him. We can put him back in to exile for another thirteen years. If that person is not Arjuna, our army will kill him in no time. Bruhanala picks up his bow and arrows: He drove the chariot near the tree in the burial ground, where they kept their weapons. He said to Uttara kumara: Bruhanala: ‘‘The bow and arrows you have brought were so tender and delicate. To kill an enemy or to break the shield the arrow should be strong enough. So, except the Gandivam no other bow can drive these Kourava army. You climb up to the tree there and you will find the weapons used by Pandavas. You open the skin and bring Gandivam and quiver.’’ Uttara kumara: ‘‘What are you thinking of me? I am a prince. You want me to climb the tree and remove the skin of a dead body. Is it not a sin to ask me to do such things.?’’ Bruhanala: ‘‘It is not a real dead body, Pandavas kept all their weapons packed in the skin and made a cover. So with out any feeling of disgrace,you climb the tree, pickup my Gandivam and give it to me.’’ Though Uttara kumara was not happy, he climbed the tree and removed the cover. From that bundle, he found all those weapons as snakes and got frightened. Then Arjuna said,

Virata parvam 53 “Prince! They are not real snakes. They are all weapons. You pickup Gandivam from that and climb down.” He believed the words of Bruhanala and removed the cover and said, “ Bruhanala! This bow is looking different from other weapons. This bow is not only splendorous but also looks like a python. Among the Pandavas who used this bow? Tell me.” Bruhanala: ‘‘The bow was used by Arjuna. It is known as Gandivam. With the help of this bow Arjuna defeated all the communities of Deva, danavas and rakshasas. This Gandivam initially was used by Brahma. So it is a flawless and superior among all the bows. It can easily rout all our enemies. ‘‘Long ago Brahma used this Gandivam for one lakh years. Then he gave it to Prajapathi, who used it for sixty four thousand years. Then he gave it to Indra who used it for eighty five thousand years. Then he gave it to Moon, who used it for five hundred years. After him, Varuna used it for hundred years. Out of love for Arjuna, Agni took that Gandivam from Varuna and gave it to him while burning Khandava vana. Arjuna used this Gandivam for sixty five years. So this Gandivam has such a great and glorious background. I will tell you about the other weapons which were used by other pandavas. The bow which was decorated with bulls and lotus flowers was used by Dharmaraja. The big Club as tall as a palm tree and engraved with the figures of vanaras belongs to Bheema. The bow engraved with golden fish was used by Nakula. The bow engraved with golden peacock was used by Sahadeva.’’ Arjuna revealed his identity : On hearing all those details, Uttara Kumara got vexed and said. Uttara kumara: ‘‘Bruhanala! Leaving all these divine weapons on this tree where did the Pandavas went? Tell me if

54 Mahabharatam you know about them. We heard that Pandavas were being cheated by his cousins in a deceitful game of dice and went to exile. I don’t know what happened to them after that. I know that they suffered all the difficulties because of Kouravas. Bruhanala: ‘‘You need not have to worry about them. They have completed their exile and joined the court of Virata to experience their Agnatha vasam. Kankubhattu, who is serving the king is Dharmaraja. The cook Valala is Bheema. The horse trainer is Nakula and the cattle breeder is Sahadeva. I myself is Arjuna. Draupadi is living as Sayrandhri in your palace. Bheema alone killed all Keechakas.’’ Uttara kumara (Surprisingly): ‘‘Arjuna! I heard that you have ten meaningful names. Tell me I want to hear them. Arjuna: ‘‘Uttara Kumara! Since I won all the land and brought Dhanam (wealth) to our treasury, I am called as Dhananjaya. Since I win all my battles, I am called a Vijaya. Since Indra put his Keeretam on my head, I am known as Keereti. Since I create Bheebhatsam in battles, I am called as Beebhatsudu. I can release arrows from both my hands, so I am known as Savyasachi. Since I am born on the star of Uttara panguni, I am called as Phalgunudu. Since I made a vow to kill the person who wounded the body of Dharmaraja I am called as Gishnudu. Since I am the son of Prudha devi (Kunthi) I am known as Paardhaa. Hence you keep confidence in me, my strength, You be my charioteer without any fear. I will overwhelm Bhishma, Drona, Karna and many more heroes of Kouravas and bring back all your cows. ‘’ Uttara Kumara jumped down from the tree and fell at the feet of Arjuna, saluted to him and said: Uttara Kumara: ‘‘Arjuna! Due to the good fortune of my earlier births, I was able to see you in your real form. By seeing

Virata parvam 55 you and hearing your courageous words, all my illusions have disappeared. Out of ignorance, I have insulted in several ways. Please bear with my timidity. How did you get this impotents form? ‘’ Arjuna: ‘‘As per the instructions from Dharmaraja, I was practicing Brahmacharya. At that time, Urvasi has cursed me to become an impotent. Because of her curse, I could able to complete Agnatha vasam in the court of Virata. The period of Agnatha vasam was compled two days ago. Arjuna blows his conch Devadattam: Arjuna got into his chariot and twanged the string of his bow and blew his conch Devadattam. Immediately his impotency disappeared and he stood as Arjuna and he prayed to fire god Agni. Agni had sent the divine chariot yoked with the divine horses. On hearing the twanging from the bow strings of Gandivam, Dronacharya said to Duryodhana: Drona: ‘‘Duryodhana! Have you heard the twanging of Gandivam and the blowing of Devadattam? There is no doubt the lonely person who came to fight with us is Arjuna. So you make preparations for war. Krupacharya! I am seeing so many bad omens, we my not score the victory. So I will give you a plan of re-arranging the formation of our army. ‘‘Duryodhana will be travelling towards Hastinapura. Behind him, all the cows we have captured will follow. Our army will be guarding the cows on all sides . We stand like a wall and obstruct. So Arjuna could not go beyond us. In other words, he should not have nay access to reach our king. Even if Arjuna attacks, all of us will fight Arjuna till our king reaches Hastinapura.’’ Duryodhana: ‘‘Dronacharya, Bhishma pitamaha and all elders! Please hear my words. Pandavas completed their exile

56 Mahabharatam of twelve years. As per our agreement during the thirteenth year, they have to hide somewhere, without getting identified by any one. This is our vow of agreement. So this is the thirteenth year. If that person happens to be Arjuna, he must have jumped Agnatha vasam out of ignorance, or by arrogance or by greed and thus exposed himself. Bheeshma pitamaha will calculate and tell us whether the period of agnatha vasam was completed or not. As per our plan, Susarma had attacked from the southern side and whereas today we are attacking from the northern side. If Pandavas are living in this state, they are all to go to exile once again. If the Pandavas are not here, we will go back to our kingdom with the wealth of cows. So let us not make any more wasteful discussions.’’ Acharya! You are one of our top warriors. You are supposed to be in the front row of our army. I have given you that much of respect and status. As a reward for that, you are praising Arjuna in my presence like a Vandhi. How can you praise an enemy in my presence? You can tell morals in a class room or while you are teaching archery to children. This is not the time to teach ethics. Simply because you are observing certain bad omens, should the sun and moon stop from their movements? I am also seeing some good omens. Will they bring me a victory? Whoever listens your words, will laugh at you. On what basis, you are telling that Arjuna alone can defeat all the Kourava army?’’ Aswadhama: Duryodhana! So far we have threatened the cow herds and yadavas and grabbed their cows. Is it a big achievement on our part? All that you have faced are only shepherds and not real enemy. Since enemy may come and attack any time, from any side. Hastinapura is far off from here, before something wrong happens, Dronacharya has given a plan for you to reach Hastinapura safely.

Virata parvam 57 ‘‘ We have grabbed the kingdom of Pandavas in a deceitful game of dice for which Sakuni has helped us. In this war, can Sakuni help us? Only your masculinity should bring the victory to you. ‘‘You have dragged Draupadi to the Kuru Sabha and insulted her. It myself and Dronacharya will stays back, will sakuni helps you? You give the power to sakuni to drive away (Arjuna) the forthcoming enemy in a battle? ‘‘Arjuna is coming to attack you like a ball of fire. Your eyes are closed with pride of your power and you have insulted your guru Dronacharya. Arjuna is a good statesman and a valorous hero. Hence any body will praise such a hero. Not only that Arjuna is the dearest student of Dronacharya. He is more then his own son. What is wrong in praising him? Simply because he appreciates his own disciple, should you insult him so brutally? Listen, whether Dronacharya takes part in the war or not, I can not swallow this insult and hence I am keeping away from fighting in this war. ‘‘Even Yama, Badabagni and Mruthyu become one and destroy, there may be some remnants. But when Arjuna releases his divine astras, there will be no reminiscent. ‘‘We are now in the battle field. All your wicked plans will not work here. Those who can fight with their vigour and valour alone will be of some help to you. The hero, Arjuna, who is coming with his Gandivam, will kill all his enemies but not by a game of deceitful dice. Oh king! You listen our words without any inhibition. If the king Virata comes to take back his cows, we shall fight him. In case Arjuna comes, we will not fight him.’’ Karna: ‘‘Aswadhama! You also listen to my words. We have come here only to identify Pandavas. We have grabbed

58 Mahabharatam their cows, which is also a part of our game plan. Now since Arjuna is coming out , you are afraid to fight him and abusing our king. If you are afraid of Arjuna, you can stay back. We will not make any appeal to you. We do not turned so many heroes . To defeat Arjuna. I myself can kill him. I will smash Arjuna and his Kapitdwaja myself. I will also drive away all the bhootas surrounded by that Kapitdwaja. My arrows will pierce into the body of Arjuna and blood will flow like a stream. Since the past thirteen years he was hiding here and there. Today he had chosen to fight us. It Arjuna is the strong man among Pandavas, I am the strongest man among Kouravas. Since he had already come to fight with us, I myself kill Arjuna and repay the debt of our king. I don’t want to mis this opportunity. ‘‘Day by day I am becoming more and more indebted to our king Duryodhana. I gave a word to him that I will finally defeat Arjuna in a battle. The day has come now. I shall prove my worth and skill in executing the art of astras learnt from Parasurama. Krupacharya: ‘‘Karna! You always provoke others and talk tall. You don’t know any thing beyond that. I am not sure whether you have any sense or not. If at all you have sense, I don’t know whether it will work or not. To achieve a thing, war is the last resort. This is what our statesmen say. Before you wage a war you must assess the time, place and strength of the enemy, then only one may think of a war. Only fools invites a war not estimating his strength and enemies strength, if such a fool enters the battle field, he is bound to swallow defeats. ‘‘Karna! Don’t underestimate the valour of Arjuna, since he is coming alone. Because he alone fought Indra and other devatas at the time of Khandava dahanam. He alone fought with all yadava army, defeated them and married Subadhara. He

Virata parvam 59 alone won all the kings on earth and made Dharmaraja as an emperor. Why so many examples, Arjuna alone defeated Chitrasena, the gandarva king and released Duryodhana. Did he not defeat Nivata and Kavachas, whom even Indra could not defeat. ‘‘Karna! Tell me one thing. All the kings in the country fought with Arjuna at the time of Draupadi Swayamwara. You know the outcome of it. So you stop all your thinking which lacks wisdom. You can’t do any good to our king. Bhishma, Drona, I, you and Aswadhama are all here to fight together with Arjuna. Then only we can win over him, otherwise even Rudra can’t get victory over him.’’ Karna condemns Krupacharya: Karna: ‘‘Acharya! You are always a well wisher of our enemies, Pandavas. Not knowing the fact that our king has brought you also with him to the battle field. Our King is feeding you throughout your life, thinking that you will be of some help at the hour of need. Whereas you are trying to flee, you better go home, perform yagnas, eat stomach full and sleep. If I stand with my bow and arrows in a battlefield all the three worlds will shiver. Who is Arjuna before my wealth of astras?’’ Bhishma: ‘‘Duryodhana! Dronacharya spoke like a statesman. Aswadhama’s words are also appreciable. Krupacharya also spoke in your interest. Karna also spoke like a hero about war and its strategies. However he should not insult elders and virtuous people? An efficient warrior should know well the sense of time and place, but harsh words will not bring us any good. When a valorous enemy is attacking, he should be stopped far ahead of us. Though virtuous people appreciate the good qualities of an enemy, but they fight the enemy with valour. Karna’s words

60 Mahabharatam are provoking. He will never respect even the most virtuous people. “Acahryas! We need your services at this critical hour. Arjuna is fast approaching us. It is not the time for us to fight with each other. Unless we fight together, we can’t win. Both of you are masters in danurveda and archery. So you should lead our army from front. If any one insults by ignorance or arrogance, you should pardon me with a large heart. You have to work only for the king and not for others. On behalf of all, I tender my apologies to all of you.’’ Krupacharya: ‘‘Pitamaha! You don’t have to seek any apology from us. If Drona alone is pacified, it is as good as pacifying all of us. We don’t expect any apology from Virtuous person like you.’’ On hearing the words from all the elders, Duryodhana took Karna and Bhishma to pacify Drona. In the similar manner they pacified Aswadhama and Krupacharya also. Drona: King all my anger has been subsided with the words of Bhishma. From now onwards, we all fight for the wellbeing of the king. Arjuna is attacking us with vengeance. Unless we all focus our strength and valour we can’t win. ‘Duryodhana was aware that the term of Agnatha vasam was over. The thirteenth year was over. However he wanted to know it from Bhishma. And hence he asked Bhishma to calculate and tell whether the period of Agnatha vasam was completed or not. Bhishma calculates and decides the period of Agnatha vasam : Bhishma: ‘‘For every two years, an extra month will come which is called Adhika masam. All such Adhika masams in a

Virata parvam 61 period of thirteen years, the term of Agnatha vasam is completed already. Knowing fully well this fact, Arjuna has came out. Not only Arjuna, Dharmaraja also knows about this calculation. If the Agnatha vasam period is not completed, he himself would have not ventured to fight Dakshina gograhanam. ‘‘If Pandavas wanted to violate dharma, they could have done on the day they lost the kingdom in a game of dice. War would have been broken on that day when you all insulted Draupadi. They were bound by dharma and had undergone the term of thirteen years patiently. Now this is the time for them to show their valour. From now onwards, they will not keep quiet. So we also should get prepared for any eventuality. The enemy who is attacking us is Arjuna. No one can say that we will win in a war. The victory can go either side. So we are to get prepared for both. Alternatively making a compromise is also an honourable way.’’ Duryodhana: ‘‘Pitamaha! I am not willing to give back their share of kingdom. So how can we compromise? Let us get prepared for a war. The question of compromise does not arise.’’ Dronacharya: ‘‘You know all the war strategies better than all of us. However I would like to suggest what I know, listen. King is to proceed towards Hastinapura. One fourth of our army will follow and guard him. The cows that we have captured also will be taken to Hastinapura. We shall attack Arjuna with the remaining army from all sides. Till our king reaches Hastinapura. Bhishma: The strategy is quiet sound and safe. Once the king leaves for Hastinapura let us plan our strategy to fight Arjuna. Drona will fight from the centre. On his right

62 Mahabharatam Krupacharya and on his left Aswadhama and front of him Karna and others will stand to attack Arjuna. As per the plan, Bhishma was leading behind the army.. The sounds he raised from Devadattam, and the twanging from his Gandivam appeared like thousand rudras roaring at the time of pralayam. Arjuna said to Uttara kumara: Arjuna: Oh Uttara kumara! The army of Kouravas is very strong. They are moving our cattle towards Hastinapura. A huge army was deployed to protect those cows.. We have to first locate where that cruel Duryodhana is. [This war strategy was prepared by Bhishma and Drona. Those who are prepared this strategy alone could be able to approach the king. This is the secret of a war strategy. Arjuna came to know the Kouravas strategy from a distance of two miles. Since he was able to understand the war strategy of enemies. Arjuna was trying to locate the individual heroes and the strategic points from which they were protecting the king. This will indicate the of Arjuna’s intelligence) ‘‘Uttara kumara! You run the chariot to your left. But don’t stop any where. [Since Arjuna understood the strategy of Bhishma and Drona, he wanted to counter their strategy. This was also a quality of a statesman. In this strategy the strength of army was not the criteria. Because if one catch hold of the king and puts him under their captivity, it is as good as wining the battle. That is why Arjuna instructed Uttara Kumara to proceed in a particular direction to catch Duryodhana.] ‘‘In case if you could secure Duryodhana the entire army will come under our control and we could drive back his cow herds towards Virata. If we succeed in locating the king, our job will become simple. If we concentrate on the king, we may able to see him somewhere.

Virata parvam 63 Uttara Kumara drove the chariot as instructed by Arjuna. Standing on the chariot, Arjuna looked south, west, and north and looked for Duryodhana. At that time, he said to Uttara Kumara, “Oh Uttara! I am not able to see the king in the middle of the army. So there is no need for us to fight the army where the king is not there. I presume he must be moving towards Hastinapura. We must catch him before he crosses our border.” By saying, so he asked Uttara Kumara to drive his chariot towards Hastinapura. On his way, while searching for Duryodhana he saw Bheeshma, Drona and Krupa. He released two arrows each at their feet as a matter of respect to his gurus and his Pitamaha. They were very much pleased for his sense of respect and devotion towards them. Dronacharya praises Arjuna : Drona: ‘‘Krupa! Arjuna has released two arrows at my feet as a matter of salutation. I consider he is enquiring about my wellbeing since he has not seen me for the past thirteen years. He has also released two more arrows by the side of my ears without touching my body. Look at his culture! Thereby it is very well understood how much furious he is against Duryodhana. Though they suffered in the forest, I could understand from the brilliance of his face, they have advanced in equipping themselves with several divine astras.’’ Bheeshma: ‘‘It is a long time I have seen him. This boy is good for good people, extend friendship and develop relations. At the same time, he is a ferocious for the bad people. Can we see anywhere in this world such a person like Arjuna? By virtue of his splendour, beauty and noble qualities, he is fit for ruling all the worlds. ‘‘Look at him! He doesn’t want to fight with our soldiers. So he is avoiding them. He is also not looking at us. It seems all

64 Mahabharatam his concentration is on the king. Because, he was very much furious on Duryodhana. Arjuna: ‘‘Uttara kumara! We have come to our cattle herds. We have a big job to do. We need not go any further. Before we get back our cattle, we will have to fight with all these soldiers. Now I will enter the army and kill them all. Finally I will not leave, until I catch hold of Duryodhana. The beginning of war: As instructed by Arjuna, Uttara Kumara drove the chariot in the middle of the army. From there, he released fifteen arrows towards cow herds. From each arrow hundreds of arrows were generated and covered the sky and darkness spread. All cattle herd were confused and did not know how to go. However he had killed some soldiers and made the cattle to run towards the city of virata.

CHAPTER – 5

Arjuna reveals the history of Kaurava heroes to Uttara Kumara: Arjuna said to the yadavas “Oh yadavas! The strength of enemy has weakened. You take your cows towards our virata.” And also said to Uttara Kumara, ‘‘Uttara kumara! The moment they come to know that we are trying to catch Duryodhana; Bhishma, Drona and all other heroes are coming to obstruct my way. When we approach Drona we should not go in front of him, you should drive the chariot form the right side of him that is how we should respect elders in a war. ‘‘Aswadhama is the son of Dronacharya. He is as potential archer as his father. He was born with the blessings of lord Siva.

Virata parvam 65 ‘‘Krupacharya also is our guru, who taught us archery while we were very young. He is not only good in archery but he loves fighting. He is a good friend of Duryodhana. ‘‘Duryodhana is our cousin who robbed our kingdom in a deceitful game of dice. First we shall try to kill Duryodhana. To protect him, Drona and other great heroes will attacks me. I will not release an arrow on them. Lt them release arrow on me then only I will enter in fighting. That is how I express my respect to my guru and pitamaha. ‘‘Karna is a confident friend of Duryodhana. He loves him more than any one because he strongly feels that he is born to defeat me. ‘‘Bhishma is my grandfather. He is a great warrior and fought several battles. He knows all the secrets of all weapons. He is the most impartial person. He loves us and Kouravas equally. Since he is living with them he was bound to fight for them. So when ever you see Bhishma’s chariot, you should not go any where near that.’’ Arjuna thus educated Uttara Kumara the background of all Kourava heroes. At that time Aswadhama said to Karna in a ridiculing manner: Aswadhama: ‘‘Karna! All these years you are boasting about your valour. Now Arjuna has taken the form of a tiger and is ready to jump on you. If you have any power left in you, you try to face him. Our king has pinned all his hopes on you only.’’ Karna: ‘‘Aswadhama! You always bet on the weak limbs. The way in which you are talking is indecent. It is better if you talk less. I never depended on you and came to this battle. I have full faith on my strength. You yourself will see how ferociously I fight.’’

66 Mahabharatam Karna, Bhishma, Drona, Aswadhama, Krupa and many others started to surround Arjuna. In that emotion, Duryodhana also prepared himself to fight against Arjuna. Behind him, all his brothers also entered the battle. They were supported by a huge army, herds of elephants, horses and chariots. Arjuna’s fight against Karna : As Arjuna entered the battle field, all the Kourava army beat the war drums. Whenever Karna was winning the drums beating reached the skies. Whenever Arjuna established his superiority, they drowned in distress. Arjuna: Karna! All these days you are boasting of your superiority. Now you have an opportunity to fight with me and prove yourself. It is not like insulting and laughing at Draupadi Kuru Sabha. At that time we were bound by dharma you are survived.’’ Karna: ‘‘Arjuna! You are talking as if you are the most virtuous person. Even now, will you show your masculinity or escape putting the blame on Dharmaraja. Now you are free to fight with me. Simply because you have completed Aranya vasam and Agnatha vasam, do not expect your share of kingdom. If you are really valorous Kshatriya, you fight and win your kingdom. I too heard about your heroic deeds now and then. Now I prove them all false. Both Karna and Arjuna released arrows which covered the sky and darkness prevailed all over. Arjuna broke Karna’s Bow. Karna took another bow and released six arrows on the charioteer, four on the horses, eight arrows on the chariot, ten arrows on the flag post and sixty arrows on the body of Arjuna.

Virata parvam 67 Arjuna, in return, hit several sharp arrows on all sensitive parts of Karna. The shield of Karna was broken. The arrows pierced all over his body and blood came out like a stream. Karna was afraid of his life and ran away from there. The battle between Arjuna and Dronacharya : Arjuna: Uttara kumara! ‘‘See what happens! Karna is one of the top heroes of Kourava army. Now since he ran away with fear, now we have to fight with Dronacharya. You don’t worry for your life as long as I am on the chariot. Even If you watch the way I am fighting you will become a big hero. ‘‘You look at the chariot. The person who is sitting in it is Dronacharya. He is my guru. I am now forced to fight with him. This is the fate of all kings. You drive our chariot close to his chariot and stop. ‘‘Gurudeva! My pranams to you. During our exile we suffered many difficulties. We withstood all of them with utmost patience. Now our term of exile is over. I think this battle will helps as a preparation before the big battle. It is the habit of virtuous people to shower their kindness on the people who are in distress. Hence I request you not to show anger on me if any arrows reaches you. I will not release an arrow on you as a matter of respect for you. So first you release an arrow on me.’’ On hearing Arjuna’s request, Dronacharya released twenty powerful arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna grounded them all before they reached him. Then they forgot their guru-sishya relationship and fought ferociously for a long time. All the Kaurava army was astonished at the great exposition of archery. They stopped fighting and looked at them. Though they were in the opposite camp they appreciated Arjuna’s talent and said, “Except Drona and lord Siva, nobody else can

68 Mahabharatam defeat Arjuna.’’ In that battle many Kaurava soldiers, horses, elephants were killed. The ornaments and the crowns of several Kaurava heroes were spread all over the battlefield. Blood was flowing like stream. The flesh, blood and soil became like slurry obstructing the movements of chariots. Dronacharya’s body was filled with arrows and blood was oozing profusely. As a result Dronacharya lost his vigour and was unable to fight with Arjuna. Aswadhama noticed that his father had lost his strength and hence he himself came to fight Arjuna. Arjuna fights Aswadhama: Ferocious battle went on between Arjuna and Aswadhama. They covered the sky with their arrows. Many soldiers, horses and elephants became their victims in a big way. Aswadhama wounded the horses of Arjuna. At one point Aswadhama broke the string of the bow of Arjuna. Arjuna stringed his bow and had cast powerful divine astras on Aswadhama. By that time Aswadhama exhausted the arrows in his quiver and left the battle field in a hurry. Arjuna fights with Krupacharya: Krupacharya looked at the battle between Arjuna and Aswadhama. He appreciated in himself the skill of Arjuna. However he was sad to notice that his nephew Aswadhama became weak. He rushed to Arjuna in the place of Aswadhama. Krupacharya broke the flag post of Arjuna with twelve arrows. Arjuna was about to release a powerful arrow on Krupacharya’s body, his body guard Chendrakethu and nine others attacked Arjuna with sharp arrows. Arjuna while fighting with Krupacharya and he cut off the heads of all those ten body guards. Kourava army, ran away with fear. In this manner Arjuna cut ten heads of Krupacharya’s body guards, he had broken the wheels of Krupacharya’s chariot

Virata parvam 69 with four arrows. With another three arrows, he killed the charioteer. With one arrow, he broke the bow of Krupacharya. Krupacharya lost his bow and chariot In a desperate attempt he threw the powerful Sakthi weapon. Arjuna released ten arrows on the Sakthi and made it into several pieces. Krupacharya took out his sword and shield, ran against Arjuna. Before he reached his chariot, he made the sword and the shield into pieces. Krupacharya was astonished at the extraordinary skill of his disciple Arjuna. Aswadhama found the helpless state of Krupacharya and lifted him in to his chariot and ran away. By looking at this ferocious scene, all Kaurava soldiers trembled with fear and ran behind Bhishma for protection. While Bhishma was about to fight with Arjuna, Vrushasena came and attacked Arjuna. Arjuna cut his spear and hit a sharp arrow on his chest. In the meanwhile Dushsasana, Sakuni, Durmukha sat on horses and attacked Arjuna. Arjuna cut the legs of all horses and made them fell on ground. Arjuna looked around him for the next entering to face. But to his surprise there were none except Bhishma sitting steadily on this chariot. The fight between Arjuna and Bhishma: Arjuna wanted to expose to his grandfather the divine astras secured. Thereby he wanted to receive his appreciation. He asked Uttara Kumara to keep his chariot in front of him. Bhishma blew his conch. To counter this, Arjuna blew Devadattam. It looked like a fight between two big bulls. Bhishma broke the flag post of Arjuna with eight arrows. He had released another ten arrows on all the bhootas surrounding his flag. Arjuna bent his bow in a circular way and released arrows on all directions so as to cover the entire sky. Then Bhishma countered his arrows and cleared the sky.

70 Mahabharatam Arjuna killed kaurava army in a big way. Drona, Karna, Krupa and Aswadhama looked at Arjuna. At that time Aswadhama said to Karna. Aswadhama: ‘‘Karna! Look at Arjuna who is coming to attack us. We don’t know on whom he may harp. You are the only person who can win him. Since a long time you are waiting to fight with Arjuna.’’ Karna understood the ridicule in Aswadhama’s words and said, “I myself will fight Arjuna. You open your eyes and watch.” Since Arjuna’s enthusiasm was increasing the enthusiasm in Kouravas army was declining. In the meanwhile Uttara Kumara said, “You are fighting since morning, I am feeling thirsty. You are not tired in killing the enemies but I am tired in looking at your heroism.” Arjuna replied: Arjuna: ‘‘Uttara kumara! As long as I am by your side, why are you afraid? Be patient for a while, till I catch hold of Duryodhana. I defeated all his heroes. He can not keep quiet like a coward. Any time he may jump on me to fight. You take our chariot in front of Duryodhana”. Arjuna fights with Duryodhana: Arjuna released two powerful arrows on the chest of Duryodhana. Ferocious Duryodhana released ten sharp arrows which hit on Arjuna’s face. They both fought for a long time. While they were fighting Vikarna came on an elephant in support of Duryodhana. In addition to Vikarna, several of his brothers attacked Arjuna on horses. All of them were making lion roars and were enthusiastic in surrounding Arjuna, Arjuna killed all the horses and the elephant. Vikarna jumped in the chariot of Vipamsathi and left. Arjuna hit four sharp arrows on the chest of Duryodhana. With that Duryodhana fell on his chariot. The charioteer of Duryodhana took him away from the battlefield.

Virata parvam 71 The Kouravas provoked the herds of elephants on Arjuna. Arjuna killed them all like a lion. Karna and Dushsasana were running away. Arjuna released one arrow on the back of each. Karna went to Bhishma and said: Karna: ‘‘Pitamaha! Look at Arjuna and his foul way fighting. He is hitting us on our back Is it not our duty to protect our king? Bhishma and Drona heard his words and but kept silent as if they have not heard him. At that time Duryodhana said with pain?. Duryodhana: ‘‘Pitamaha! While Karna was talking why are you keeping quiet, as if he is talking to an outsider? Is it fair on your part to keep quiet if your king is in danger? Is it not your duty to save your king?” Drona, Bhishma and Krupacharya came and pacified Duryodhana. In the meanwhile Arjuna shouted in a big way saying: Arjuna blames Duryodhana: Arjuna: ‘‘Duryodhana! Did any Kshatriya of our Kuru dynasty ran away from the battle field like you? You have so many heroes in your side. You have come to steal away others’ cows. Whereas I am defending king Virata. Not only that I am the youngest of all Kunthi’s children. Whereas you are the eldest of the Kouravas. While I am calling you for a fight, instead of accepting the challenge, you are running away. What happened to all your ego and arrogance? What happened to your pride and strength? Where are your heroes? If you run away like this, can you sit in company of your subordinate kings with respect? ‘‘King of Kauravas! If you are defeated in a battle how can you ride an elephant with pride? Even though you decorate

72 Mahabharatam yourself with valuable diamonds, will it enhance your prestige in a Sabha? Will the perfumes and ointments gives you the sense pleasures with your women? Will the beautiful women would crave for you? So you listen to my words, and come back and fight with me. No matter if you die. You will reach superior lokas. Since you are eating others food perhaps you may not like to die. But you can’t enjoy others fortune any more. It is the battlefield, not a deceitful game of dice. If the Kaurava emperor like you is running away from the battlefield to save his life, will there be any bigger insult than this?’’ On hearing those teasing words of Arjuna, Duryodhana hissed like a cobra, and returned back to fight with Arjuna. With that Bheeshma, Drona and others also surrounded Arjuna’s chariot. The entire army ran towards Arjuna like an ocean. Arjuna was happy to face so many big heroes. Arjuna was seriously thinking of protecting his chariot, charioteer and horses. His next target was how to catch Duryodhana. If he was able to kill Duryodhana the battle would come to an end. Suddenly he remembered the vow made by Bheema. So he didn’t want to kill Duryodhana, at least I will insult him and leave.’’ Thinking in himself, he released the Sammohana Astra. The presiding deity of that astra was Indra, hence it would never fail. With the power of that astra, each one of them fainted and fell down. Immediately they reached the state of deep sleep. Arjuna remembered the words of Uttara, and said to Uttara Kumara. Arjuna: All these people are in deep sleep. It will take long time for them to wake up. In the meanwhile you go and cut the turbans of Duryodhana, Aswadhama, Karna, Drona, Krupacharya and bring those pieces of cloths and the valuable stones decorated on their turbans. Remember don’t go and touch Bheeshma, because no astra can influence him.’’

Virata parvam 73 Immediately he went and came back with their turbans and boarded his chariot. As the place was sultry and cramped, Arjuna thought of moving his chariot little away from that place. The moment Arjuna’s chariot moved, Bheeshma released astras on Arjuna. At that time, Arjuna also casted sharp arrows and wounded Bheeshma’s charioteer and horses. Since Bheeshma’s horses and charioteer were hurt, Bheeshma could not move his chariot and could not fight with Arjuna. At that time, Arjuna drove his chariot with grace. After some time all the warriors and soldiers woke up from their sleep. They looked around for Arjuna and then Bheeshma said: Bheeshma: ‘‘Duryodhana! You are not aware what has happened. You and our soldiers fell in deep sleep. Had Arjuna wanted to kill all of us, he could have done so. But he did not behave cruelly. So we are all living by the grace of Arjuna, we better stop fighting with him and go back to Hastinapura. Duryodhana returns accepting his defeat: Duryodhana was furious and at the same time he was unable to digest such a big insult. At that time neither he could accept Bhishma’s good advice nor reject it. However other heroes also agreed with Bheeshma and said to the king that, that was not the opportune time to react. They wanted to protect their king at any cost. At that time, Bheeshma’s advise became handy for them to persuade Duryodhana to call off the battle. As advised by Bhishma, the Kaurava army started their journey towards Hastinapura. However Arjuna chased them all for a distance. He had broken their umbrellas and flag posts. Finally he released arrows of respect at the feet of Bheeshma, Drona and Krupacharya and returned. He cast two powerful arrows which hit Duryodhana’s crown and a few diamonds were fell down.

74 Mahabharatam Arjuna: ‘‘Uttara Kumara! We have killed many of the enemies . We cut the turbans of many heroes. We broke their flag posts. Now we are returning back to the city of Virata with our cows. Your mother and other relatives must be waiting for your return. Let us go home and make them happy. You go and tell your father and mother that you yourself had chased the Kaurava army and brought back our cows. Uttara Kumara: ‘‘Arjuna! All my people know about my valour. No body will believe if I say I have driven out Kauravas army. My father knows about my strength more than any body else. Having seen your valour and skill, how I can hide the truth. If not today tomorrow the truth will come out. If you insist me to hide your bravery and courage, I will do so till you order me to reveal the same. The moment you order me I will tell the truth to every one.’’ While they were talking, they reached the burial ground. Arjuna asked Uttara Kumara to put back his weapons on the tree as before. After that Arjuna mentally prayed to Agni, the fire god . Immediately the chariot disappeared. On their return, Arjuna occupied the usual seat of a charioteer. There king Virata, who also fought with the army of Susarma, and won the battle, returned to the city. As they were entering the city, the brahmins recited Veda mantras and blessed the king, his brothers, relatives and Pandavas. King Virata convened his Sabha, sat on his throne and replied politely to all those who came to complement him for the victory. At that time he did not find Uttara Kumara among them. So he asked “where is Uttara Kumara?”. Then the courtier said that he went to fight Kouravas army to protect the cow sheds in the northern side. King Virata anguish for his son Uttara Kumara: King Virata came to know that Uttara kumara alone went to fight

Virata parvam 75 with the Kourava army and was worried for him since he was a young boy. Kankubhattu consoled the king stating: Kankubhattu: ‘‘King! As you have won Susarma’s army in the southern side, in the same manner our Uttara Kumara also will defeat the Kaurava’s army and will come back with victory. Uttara Kumara has not gone alone. He has taken Bruhanala also as his charioteer. Then where is the fear for you. Bruhanala has tremendous valour and exhibits skill at times of war. Though Kankubhattu tried to console him, the king did not convinced. So he asked his commander to go with a big army in support of Uttara Kumara. In the meanwhile the spies came and informed the king that Uttara Kumara had defeated all the Kauravas and was coming back with their cow herds. On hearing the victorious return of his son, the king was very happy and gave heavy gifts to the spies and made them happy. Brahmins and the virtuous women were sent to accord a grand reception to his son. King Virata wanted to relax at this happy hour with a game of dice with Kankubhattu. Kankubhattu said: Kankubhatta: Oh king! Today you are in a jubilant mood. I am sure I may not defeat you in this game also. While Sayrandhri was going that side, he ordered her to bring the dice and the board for the game. Then the king said at this victorious hour that game of dice would make him happier. Kankubhattu: ‘‘King! In this very same game, Dharmaraja lost his kingdom, brothers and wife. From then onwards he suffered many difficulties. Therefore this game always brings difficulties only.’’

76 Mahabharatam While they were playing in a moment of jubilation Virata said: Virata: ‘‘Kankubhattu! Uttara Kumara has driven away all Kaurava army and is bringing back all our cow herds. What a great valorous person is Uttara Kumara! Is there any one in this world who went alone, fought with such a huge army and protected the Kshatriya dharma? Kankubhattu: ‘‘King! If Uttara Kumara alone had the valour of winning over Bhishma, Drona, Krupacharya, Karna, Duryodhana and others, he would have had the glory of a valorous person in this world.” On hearing Kankubhattu’s words the king became furious and his eyes became blood red and said: Virata: ‘‘Kankubhattu! It is not good for you to ridicule Uttara Kumara in this manner. So far I am able to bear with your comment. From now onwards, I won’t tolerate even if you talk one word against Uttara Kumara. Kankubhattu: ‘‘King! Don’t forget Uttara Kumara had gone with Bruhanala. His valour and art of winning enemies will not only defeat the Kaurava army but also win all the divine communities. Since such a valorous person was driving the chariot of our Uttara Kumara, how can he come without a victory?’’ Again this Kankubhattu was provoking by saying that Bruhanala was responsible for the victory of Uttara Kumara. The king could not control himself. Virata: ‘‘Kankubhattu! It is the first time that I am hearing that the winning of a battle by his charioteer. Why are you not accepting the greatness of my son and his victory? Why are you refusing to say a few palatable words about my son? Oh brahmin! I can not tolerate your ignorant talks any more!’’

Virata parvam 77 Kankubhattu: ‘‘King! On seeing the ocean of Kaurava army the enthusiasm in Bruhanala might have overwhelmed. He must have made our Uttara Kumara as his charioteer and driven away all the Kaurava army. He has brought back all the cow herds. This is truth. You yourself will hear form Uttara Kumara. Virata hits at Kankubhattu with a dice: In spite of several warnings, Kankubhattu continued to praise Bruhanala and kept Uttara Kumara in a low profile. King Virata lost his control at that time and threw a dice on Kankubhattu. Though the king hit at him, he was not annoyed at the king but looked at Sayrandhri. Immediately she cleaned the wound of with her upper cloth and cleaned it with water. King Virata saw the blood on the cloth of Sayrandhri and questioned her. ‘‘Why you have cleaned his wound with your cloth’’. Sayrandhri said: Sayrandhri: ‘‘King! He was born in a virtuous family. All his life he lived in the path of dharma only. The number of blood drops that may fall from his body on earth, this country will suffer the same number of years without rains and with famine conditions. The blood of a virtuous Dwija will bring harm to this country.’’ In the meanwhile the people who went to accord reception to Uttara Kumara reached the palace. The brahmins and the virtuous women spilled pearls, flowers, navaratnas and gold coins on Bruhanala and Uttara Kumara. However grand the reception might be, Uttara Kumara stood passively as if all that honour didn’t belong to him. His conscious was pricking for not able to tell the truth, that Bruhanala alone had won the battle. In course of time, he went inside the palace. King Virata jumped at his son and embraced. Then Uttara Kumara prostrated at his father’s feet and saw Kankubhiattu by his side and noticed the wound on his face. He asked Kankubhattu how it happened. Then Virata said:

78 Mahabharatam Virata: ‘‘My son! While I was praising your valour and strength and your victory, this Kankubhattu said that the battle was won by Bruhanala. I could not control my anger and threw a dice on him.’’ Uttara Kumara: Father! These are people with virtuous character. Whatever they say, will become true. You have to accept with all humility. We have no authority to say against them. Hence you tender your unconditional apologies to him. With the anger of such people, we will lose longevity and the kingdom.’’ On hearing Uttara Kumara’s words, King Virata tendered his apologies to Kankubhattu with humility and obedience. Then Kankubhattu said: Kankubhattu: ‘‘Your words and actions never hurt me. It is unfortunate that today you lost your temper.’’ In the meanwhile Bruhanala entered the room. The king received him with great honour. Uttara Kumara narrates his experiences at war: Virata: ‘‘ My son! The Kourava army was as huge as an ocean. it contains great warriors like Bheeshma, Drona, Krupa, Karina, Aswadhama and may others. Bheeshma has defeated even Parasurama. Dronacharya is the master of dhanurveda and archery. Aswadhama was born with the blessings of lord Siva. They can’t be compared with any other human warriors. All the sons of Dhrutarashtra are controlling the entire earth. How does it happen you alone was able to win all of them? Knowing fully well that you are alone, did they not harp on you. How did you brought back all our cow herds without missing even a single cow. Duryodhana is known for his passion and pride. How did he accept this in glory and how he retreated.

Virata parvam 79 Uttara Kumara: ‘‘Father! I have not actually routed the Kaurava army. I have not brought back the cow herds. Suddenly a divine person had come and stood in front of me and fought with Kauravas. After driving them, he had brought all the cow herds to our country. By looking at the ocean of Kaurava army, I lost hopes on my life and while I was running back to the palace, that divine person stood in front of me and gave me assurance that he would win the battle for me. Uttara narrated what all had happened in the battle field. King Virata was very happy. At that time Dharmaraja covered his wound with his upper cloth. However King Virata did not understand that the divine person was none other than Bruhanala. On hearing the narration of Uttara Kumara, Arjuna appreciated him and said: Arjuna: ‘‘You have spoken with your father with a great skill. Though you have told them the fact, still you kept them all in dark. Even if Kankubhattu asks, you should not reveal beyond that.’’ Arjuna gives the turbans of Kaurava warriors to Uttara: The princess Uttara went with her companions to Bruhanala. Bruhanala took out the turban cloths of various warriors and presented them to Uttara. On that night, all the brothers and Draupadi met at an appointed place and narrated their experiences with each other about Uttara gograhanam and Dakshina gograhanam. Arjuna asked Bheeima: Arjuna: ‘‘Bheema! While our brother was in the presence of king Virata, he did not even look at my face. Do you know what would be the reason?’’ For which Dharmaraja himself said:

80 Mahabharatam Dharmaraja: ‘‘King Virata was jubilant at the victory of his son over Kauravas in Uttara Gograhana. Whereas I did not agree with him and said the real reason for victory was Bruhanala. The King was annoyed at me for praising an impotent person and threw the dice on my face. Because of that, there was some bleeding. For which I made a little dressing.’’ On hearing this, Bheema became furious, got up and said, “I will kill him and his family.” Then Arjuna also said, “This Virata do not know our worth. I will kill him and this kingdom also will become ours.” Dharmaraja: ‘‘ Be calm! It is not fair on your part to make such vows. In fact, he does not know who we are. We should remember we have completed our Agnatha vasam in his court. If we do any harm to him, we will become ungrateful. We shall make him to know who we are. In spite of that, if he exhibits his pride then we will think of what to do.’’ Hearing Dharmaraja’s words, Bheema and Arjuna were pacified. They sat and thought how to make that king know the truth about them. Finally they resolved that it would be better to go to his court hall and reveal their real identity. Next morning after completing their daily rituals, they dressed well, applied perfumes and ointments. They wore garlands around their necks. All the six people went together to the court hall of Virata. Dharmaraja went and sat on the throne, remaining four also took their respective seats. In the meanwhile king Virata also entered the court hall. By the time he entered the hall he was stunned. After a while he addressed them: Virata: ‘‘Kankubhattu! You are a sadhu by nature and action. Why are you occupying my throne? Even though I

Virata parvam 81 entered the hall, you did not stand up. What is the reason for your haughty behaviour?’’ Arjuna stood up and said with a smile: Arjuna: ‘‘Virata! The person who is sitting on your throne is Dharmaraja. There are only six emperors in this world who performed a Rajasuya yaga Dharmaraja is one among them. He has conquered all the kings on the earth and he is popularly known as Ajathasathru. He wishes wellbeing of his enemies also. He is the superior among the virtuous people. He is empowered even to occupy the throne of Indra. Since such a Dharamaraja is now sitting on your throne to sit on your small throne?’’ By his sitting you and your throne became glorious. Arjuna reveals about his brothers : Arjuna: ‘‘The cook in your palace, Valaludu is none other than Bheema. Nobody can win him in a battle. He killed Bakasura. He killed Kimmeera, a rakshasa and made all tapasvis happy in the forest. He killed Hidumbasura and married his sister Hidumbi. He is Nakula, who worked as a horse breeder in your stables. He is Sahadeva, who worked as a cow breeder in the name of Tantreepala. She is Draupadi, who served Sudheshana Devi in the name of Sayrandhri. Only to protect her Bheema had killed all the Keechakas in one night. We came in various disguises and served in various menial positions, just to hide our identity for a year. We irritating sweet experiences as well as some bad moments’’ Bheema introduces Arjuna : Bheema: ‘‘He is Arjuna. He taught dance to your princess in the name Bruhanala, in an impotent form. He had defeated Indra and allowed Agni to destroy the Khandava vana. He killed the cruel Kalakeyas and pleased Indra. He also killed Nivata kavachas. He defeated gandarvas and released Duryodhana from his captivity.’’

82 Mahabharatam On hearing Bheema’s words, Uttara Kumara said to his father, “Father! This Arjuna had taken a word from me that I should not reveal his name as the winner of the battle of Uttara Gograhianam. He alone drove away all Kouravas. He is the same divine person about whom I told you while narrating my experiences of Uttara Gograhanam.’’ On hearing the words from Uttara Kumara, King Virata ran to Arjuna and embraced him affectionate. Next, he went to the throne and prostrated at the feet of Dharmaraja. Dharmaraja lifted and embraced him. Virata also went to Bheema, Nakula, Sahadeva and embraced them. King Virata called his ministers and officials and introduced Pandavas to them. He sent word to his queen all about the real state of Pandavas and Draupadi. He respected Draupadi in a fitting manner. Arjuna: ‘‘King! as per our agreement we are to spend one year Agnatha vasam. We were worried how to spend and where to spend. We have completed our Agnatha vasam as comfortable as a child in her mother’s stomach Virata: ‘‘Arjuna! We are no more outsiders to you. It is our good fortune that you have chosen our kingdom to complete your Agnatha vasam. By that, gods grace was showered on us. This kingdom belongs to Dharmaraja. Myself, my brothers, my sons and ministers and all people of this country will serve him. Uttara Kumara: ‘‘Where is the kingdom for us? Who are you to give it to Dharmaraja. In yesterdays battle they alone won this kingdom from ith Trigarta and Kauravas. They alone won this kingdom. How can we give them back which is already owned by them. Since the kingdom is theirs, we have only one thing to offer them, if they agree. You call Uttara to this court.

Virata parvam 83 Uttara comes to the court hall: Virata’s ministers went to the palace and brought Uttara with the permission of Sudheshana and brought her to the court hall. Virata took his daughter, went to Dharmaraja and they prostrated at his feet and said: Virata: Oh Dharmaraja! Out of my ignorance, I did not know who you were. You have to pardon me for my ignorance. I give this girl to Arjuna with the consent of all my relatives. My country men also will love it. Dharmaraja looked at Arjuna. Arjuna said to Dharmaraja: Arjuna: ‘‘King! I do accept this Uttara as my daughter- in- law, not as my wife because she learnt dance from me. Thereby she became my disciple. Disciples are as good as own daughters. If I accept your offer people will call me a fickle minded person. So I will accept her for my son Abhimanyu. He is none other than nephew of Krishna.’’ On hearing Arjunas words, Virata was happy and said, “I obey the words of Arjuna as his orders”. On hearing Virata’s words, Dharmaraja said, “Arjuna knows all dharmas. Let us agree to his proposal. You send this good news to all our relatives.” Virata fixed the date and time for the marriage. Invitations were sent to Yadavas, Panchalas and many other relatives. Dharmaraja embraced Virata and said, “Oh Virata! For us Krishna and you are same. To have relationship with you, I consider it as my good fortune.” At Hastinapura, Duryodhana consulted Karna, Sakuni and Dushsasana and sent a messenger to Dharmaraja. However Bhishma and other elders warned him not to send a messenger. He did not agree to their advice. The messenger went and said:

84 Mahabharatam Messenger: Oh Dharmaraja! Before the completion of one year of Agnatha vasam, we have identified Arjuna. You also calculate and let us inform what would be the next course of action.’’ In short the Duryodhana’s mind was that Dharmaraja and his brothers were to make another twelve years of Vana vasam and one year of Agnatha vasam. However Dharmaraja smiled at the messenger and said: Dharmaraja: ‘‘As per our vow, thirteen years are completed. There is nothing to say about it. You go and inform Duryodhana in the presence of Bheeshma, Drona and other elders that we have completed our vow without any flaw.’’ The messenger informed Duryodhana about what Dharmaraja had said. Duryodhana called Bheeshma, Drona and others and asked: Duryodhana: ‘‘Did Arjuna come out of his Agnatha vasam after completing the term of thirteen years or not? Without ascertaining this fact, we made a battle with Arjuna. You please calculate and tell me.’’ Bheeshma: ‘‘Duryodhana! What are you talking? Don’t keep such illusions. I told you on the first day, when Arjuna appeared on the battlefield itself that the term of Agnatha vasam was completed.’’ All elders agreed with the Bhishma’s words and said, “Is Arjuna an ignorant to come out within the period of Agnatha vasam?” Krishna, Balarama and others went to Pandavas: Pandavas completed their term of thirteen years, went to the burial ground and took their weapons back and worshipped them. They made Upaplavyapuram as their place of residence.

Virata parvam 85 King Virata gifted them diamonds and other valuables. People from the towns and villages came, met Dharmaraja and others and expressed their devotion to them. Krishna, Balarama and others also brought valuable gifts and presented to Dharmaraja. Subadra also came with Abhimanyu and lived with them in Upaplavyapuram. With them many yadava kings came with valuable gifts and presented to Dharmaraja. Dharmaraja received them all with affection and honoured them. King Drupada also came with his sons. Pandavas welcomed Drupada and his sons with affection. King Virata also honoured them with respect. For the marriage of Abhimanyu and Uttara, kings and relatives from many kingdoms came and participated in it. In this grand manner Viratas and Pandavas arranged the marriage of Uttara and Abhimanyu. The celebration of marriage: They procured all the materials required for marriage. Astrologers invited Dharmaraja for the marriage. Dharmaraja and his brothers decorated well and attended the marriage. Krishna, Virata and all other kings took active part in the marriage and worshipped Pandavas. Virata selected valuable stones and many ornaments, silk garments and perfumes and offered to Krishna and Pandavas. Draupadi also honoured Subadra with ornaments and silk garments. King Virata gifted to Abhimanyu seven hundred elephants, ten thousand horses, five lakh cows, two thousand chariots, one lakh servants and many other gifts. –oOo–

86 Mahabharatam Glossary

Agnata vasam Exile Artha Wealth Astras Weapons Beebhatsudu Arjuna Bheebhatsam Havoc Boothas Living beings Brahmacharya The first stage of life when one is bachelor Brahmotshavas A festival Chaturvidha purusharthas Dharma, Ardha, Kama, Moksha Dakshinagograhanam Catching of cows from the southern side Danavas Titan; giant Danurveda Archery Deeksha Dedicating Devadattam Conch of Arjuna Dhanam Wealth Dhananjaya Arjuna Dharma Prescribed course of conduct, Duty Dwiju First three castes Gandarvas Celestial musician Gandivam The bow of Arjuna Kalayama God of death Kaama Lust, Desire, Sexual desire Kamadhenu The celestial cow which yields whatever is desired Keeretam Crown Keereti Arjuna Khandava dahanam Burning of Khandava forest

Virata parvam 87 Kinnara A celestial deity Kolu A gallery of toys Moksha Salvation, self merging in god, exception from further birt Nartana sala Dancing hall Navaratnas Nine gems pancha boothas Five principal elements Panguni; Paardha; Phalgunudu Arjuna Pisachas Devils Pralayam Deluge, a great flood causing annihilation and dissolution Pranams Life; sentience, being, vitality Rudras A celestial gods Sabha An assembly Sadhana Chatustayam Four wings of army Sairandhri A maid servant Sanyasashrama Fourth ashrama Sastra Science; law Savyasachi Arjuna Sharad ruthu Two months of a year siddha A yogi Simhanadhams Lion’s road Sishya Disciple Vana vasam Living in forest Vandhi One who praises the king Vedas Divine knowledge; collection of hymns and prayers vidyadara A celestial devata Yadavas A community

88 Mahabharatam