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MB Series Episode 9: Draupadi’s Swayamvar

Pandavas continued to live in Ekachakra for months after Bhima killed Bakasur. They used to learn scriptures and Vedas from the Brahmana in whose house they were living. One day, that Brahmana was visited by a sage who travelled across several remote regions. He stayed with Brahmana for few days and one day while sharing the stories of his voyage, he told Pandavas about Panchal kingdom. Panchal was ruled by king Drupada. Drupada was the same king whom Arjuna defeated in lieu of preceptor fee for Guru Drona.

Sage told Pandavas about the places he visited in detail. He shared the stories of many kingdoms and then he mentioned about the Swayamvar about to happen in Panchal, for the princess Draupadi, the daughter of Drupada. He shared how King Drupada had invited kings and princes of many regions to participate in the Swayamvar. And how the city was being decorated to host the event of its kind. He told about the richness of the city and how the citizens of Panchal lived in harmony and peacefully. He mentioned that those five brothers with mother can also go to Panchal and witness the grandeur. The sage thought Pandavas were Brahmanas and mentioned that they could also go to Panchal with other Brahmanas. Kunti gave a thought to the comments of sage. She reflected that finding food for all six of them in that small village was getting difficult day by day as they already stayed for many months in the village. She thought to continue their journey and go to Panchal in search of better life. She agreed and gave her affirmation for going to Panchal.

A day was decided and those five brothers with mother Kunti started their journey towards the new city. Days of travel and grouped with a troop of Brahmanas, Pandavas with mother Kunti reached Panchal. Panchal was getting ready for the grand event and thus the entire city was decked with decorations and divine fragrance. Special arrangements were being made for the guests. Palaces and apartments were being built for princes and kings invited and all necessary arrangements of comfort were visible in each street of the city. Panchal was about to host the Swayamvar of its adorable daughter, Draupadi.

Pandavas searched for a suitable place for their stay in Panchal and managed to get a place in a potter’s house. Pandavas with their mother Kunti settled there and started living as mendicants. There were enough resources for them in Panchal and above all, Panchal was ready to host many guests at that time.

As the day of Swayamvar approached, the guests started arriving in the city. Kings and princes from all directions and remotest regions were coming to participate in the event and prove their caliber for the princess of Panchal. Attractive sights and sporting events were arranged to entertain the invitees. A large and beautifully decorated stadium was set for the main event which was surrounded by the seating places of all kings and other visitors.

A podium was created at the center of the stadium. A mighty bow was kept on the dais with five arrows. A rotating machine was set at some height. It was sight for attraction for all visitors.

Finally, the day of Swayamvar came and the princes came to show their caliber and prove their might to win Draupadi started gathering in the main stadium. The kings and princes of remote kingdoms, small or big, all with great enthusiasm, with one dream of winning the beautiful Draupadi in Swayamvar started gathering. Duryodhana, Dushasana, Vikarna, Yuyutsu and other Kaurava brothers with Karna and Ashwatthama also came for the event. Panchal was garnered with warriors of different caliber and among them was seated the pride of Yadus, the lord of Dwarka, and the son of Devaki, Krishna. He came to support the king of Panchal with his elder Balarama and his dear friend Satyaki.

Then entered a large group of Brahmanas who came to witness the event and bless the king Drupada and his children. Amid them, Pandavas were seated, guised as Brahmanas. And when all guests were arrived and welcomed by King Drupada, entered the queen of desires of many men seated in stadium. Draupadi holding the hands of her brother Dhrishtadyumna, clad in flowing silk and coyly glancing the princes present there entered the arena. As the goddess of supreme beauty walked, all the eyes of mortals gazed at the divine grace.

Dhrishtadyumna then introduced all the invitees to Draupadi and then pointing at the mighty bow and five arrows, in loud voice said, “Here is the bow and these are five arrows. That is the target. Lift the bow, tie the string, and shoot the mark through the orifice of the machine with these five sharpened arrows. He who achieves this feat will win the challenge and if Draupadi agrees, he will get married to her.” Saying this he went back and sat next to his father. King Drupada then signaled the start of event. Monarchs one by one, attempted to beat the challenge, but failed. Hitting the target seemed distant as they were unable to lift even the bow. It became full chaotic and they started shouting that the king Drupada wanted to embarrass those warriors and thus he put that difficult task.

Then came the turn of Karna. His might and strength needed no introduction. A ray of hope sparkled among the warriors when Karna lifted the bow and tied the string. He stretched the bow with mounted arrow and was about to shoot the arrow when a voice stopped him. Draupadi rose from her seat and in loud voice said, “I will not marry a Suta.” This made Karna to leave the challenge. Once again there was a furor and chaos on who would be able to hit the target. Then, Arjuna sitting amid the group of Brahmanas stood and with full confidence walked towards the podium. All looked at him in awe and confusion as they never expected that someone from Brahmana group would attempt the challenge. He reached at the center and asked, “Can a Brahmana try to hit the target?”

Dhrishtadyumna signaled in affirmation and then Arjuna did something which was no less than extraordinaire for any human present in the stadium. He lifted the bow, mounted the arrows and in succession hit the target leaving everyone awestruck. The crowd was in tumult, but the princes went silent witnessing the extraordinary feat from an ordinary looking Brahmana. Brahmanas sitting in the stadium rejoiced in glory and bestowed their blessings on Arjuna. Draupadi smiled and walked towards Arjuna with a garland. She accepted Arjuna as her lord. But it didn’t go well with the Kshatriyas present there and they in unison shouted that a Brahmana shouldn’t be allowed to participate in Swayamvar. They feared that if the news of their failure would spread, no other king would call them in future events. They took Arjuna’s victory as their personal loss and all rushed towards the group of Brahmanas. Bhima, sensing the danger, rushed to counter the attacks and then both Arjuna and Bhima stood against those hundreds of princes.

The attacks and counter attacks started, and the stadium turned into a violent stage. Krishna and Balarama sensing the danger intervened and tried to calm the protests. Krishna said, “Draupadi rightfully belongs to the Brahmana who has hit the target as directed by King Drupada. There is no room for confusion.”

All five brothers with Draupadi then returned to the potter’s house where they were temporary residing. But it was not end to the confusions. As they reached, they thought of tricking their mother, and thus they said to Kunti, “Mother! we got today’s alms.” As always Kunti without looking back at them said, “Divide it among all of you.” The words of mother became the destiny of new bride. Realizing her mistake Kunti asked Yudhishthira to disprove her statement but Yudhishthira said, “Words of mother shouldn’t go in vain and thus all five of us would be called as husbands of Draupadi.”

Next day, the messengers of king Drupada came and as per the orders of the king invited the Pandavas to the palace for marriage rituals. All of them went and when asked by Drupada, Yudhishthira revealed their real identities. This sorted the confusion of Drupada, and he was excited finding that nobody but Arjuna won the challenge of Swayamvar. Drupada then requested Arjuna to proceed for the marriage rituals but he was surprised knowing that all five brothers wanted to marry his daughter Draupadi.

Skeptical Drupada left the decision on Kunti and Dhrishtadyumna. Seeing the reluctance of Drupada, Yudhishthira said, “Worry not O king! This arrangement is per our pledge and wish of our mother. Draupadi will be called as the common wife of all five Pandavas. Her place will always be supreme.” Finally, Drupada agreed and the marriage ceremony completed. After the marriage, Pandavas continued living in the palace of Panchal and soon the news of their marriage reached Hastinapur. News of their survival from the burning palace of wax in Varnavata and Arjuna’s prowess in winning the Swayamvar.

Bhishma was delighted knowing the news and he asked Dhritarashtra to call Pandavas with Kunti and Draupadi back to Hastinapur. Dhritarashtra was confused. Duryodhana was furious.  Karna was bewildered and Shakuni was shocked. But they had no choice then to accept the truth.

On order of Dhritarashtra, Vidura went to Panchal with different gifts for king Drupada and message for the Pandavas to return to Hastinapur.

The post MB Series Episode 9: Draupadi’s Swayamvar appeared first on αníkєt s shαrmα.

MB Series Episode 8: Hidimba, Bakasur and Bhima

After escaping from the palace of wax, Pandavas with mother Kunti, with the help of prudent spy of Vidura, crossed the river Ganga and entered the other side of the jungle. They were tired but kept walking, saving themselves from the unexpected threats. After hours of walk when they were deep inside the woods and when the thirst overpowered their dry throats, Kunti asked them to stop and rest before moving further. Tired and thirsty Kunti in hoarse voice asked Bhima to fetch water for all of them. While Bhima went away in search of water, remaining brothers with mother Kunti settled under a huge tree. But the tired eyes were overpowered by sleep and all of them slept even before Bhima returned.

After some time, Bhima returned and when he found all his brothers and mother sleeping, he decided to stay awake and keep vigil on the wild animals or any unwanted threat in that unknown place. Bhima sat beside them and while he was seated there, beholding the tired and dirt smeared faces of his brothers, he reflected about the cruelty thrusted on them. The residents of palaces who were surrounded by unthinkable luxuries and comfort were lying on hard stones and walking along the rough patches of that dreadful forest. Thinking about the sinfulness of Duryodhana and Dhritarashtra, he was lost in immense grief.

In the same forest lived a Rakshasa, Hidimba and his sister Hidimbā. They claimed that dense forest as their land and anything roaming on that land as their property. That evening while hunting for food, Hidimbā reached near the place where those Pandavas were sleeping under the watch of Bhima. As she saw vigilant Bhima with mountainous build, she immediately fell in love with him. She made up her mind to be with Bhima as his wife. Rakshasas clan, in those days, were blessed with a unique quality of transforming their avatars in any desired form. Thus, Hidimbaa transformed herself as a beautiful and flawless demoiselle and approached Bhima. She bowed down before Bhima and expressed her desire. Bhima had no clue who that lady was. He was surprised seeing that beautiful woman roaming in that dense forest.

He asked, “Who are you?”

“I am Hidimbaa.”, she replied. “This forest belongs to me. I was roaming in hunt of food but as I saw you, I immediately decided to be with you.”, she expressed.

Before Bhima could react, Hidimbaa’s brother Hidimba reached there. Seeing the six humans, his hunger doubled, and that cannibal rushed towards Bhima and other Pandavas. Alert Bhima reacted to the danger with speed of light and stood as a wall before his brothers. Hidimba roared. Hidimbaa asked him not to hunt those five men and their mother, but in vain. Hidimba attacked Bhima, but Bhima like a lion roared and countered the attack.

Listening to affrighting voice of that Rakshasa, other Pandavas and Kunti woke up. Sensing the danger, Arjuna immediately rushed towards Bhima. Bhima stopped Arjuna and said, “I am enough for this demon.” And that ruthless mountainous built Bhima with his continuous strikes defeated that Rakshasa, Hidimba. Hidimba fell with loud roar and died.  

Seeing her dead brother, Hidimbaa started crying. Bewildered Kunti approached her and tried to console her. Recovering from the sorrow of her loss, Hidimbaa shared her identity and asked Kunti to accept her as daughter-in-law. Kunti thought, consulted with Yudhishthira and they decided that if Bhima wished he could marry Hidimbaa. But Bhima could stay with Hidimbaa only till their son was born.

And then, Bhima and Hidimbaa’s marriage was solemnized. Pandavas stayed in that forest for some more months. Soon Bhima and Hidimbaa blessed with a son, and they named him Ghatotkacha. How Ghatotkacha helped Pandavas and saved life of Arjun, we will see in future episodes.

Here, as decided, Bhima and other Pandavas after the birth of Ghatotkacha left that forest and walked in search of new habitat. Their search took them to a new village, Ekachakra. And they found a Brahmana’s house as their new dweller. Life started settling gradually. They were living life of mendicants, wandering from house to house in search of food, while Kunti used to help Brahmana’s family in routine work. But one day, there was complete silence and sadness blanketed the house of Brahmana. Kunti asked to the sobbing daughter of Brahmana about it. That daughter of Brahmana told about the reason of their fear and sadness. That village Ekachakra was under the horror of a Rakshasa called Bakasur. Fear of that demon was genuine as he demanded a cart load of food and a human every week in lieu of not killing all the inhabitants of Ekachakra. That day it was turn of the daughter of that Brahmana.

Kunti listened to that affrighted girl and decided that instead of her, Bhima would go. Bhima agreed and he knew for what purpose he was being sent. Bhima followed the words of Kunti. While walking towards that cave, Bhima became hungry and he ate the food kept in that cart. After finishing his food, he walked into the cave and stood before the demon. Bakasur got angry seeing the empty cart. He pounced on Bhima in order to feast on that bulky human. Bhima countered. Both got into a duel and soon, Bhima killed Bakasur. Bakasur was dead.  Bhima did what Kunti wished. But how Bakasur’s brother took revenge, we will see in upcoming episodes.

Bhima returned to the village victorious. All hailed and praised Bhima as he removed the biggest threat of their lives. The villagers celebrated and arranged a special treat for Bhima. Ekachakra was freed from that curse, and Pandavas lived happily in that village for few more months, before heading towards Panchal.

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MB Series Episode 7: The Palace of Wax

After defeating Drupada and fulfilling the wish of their Guru, Pandavas with Kauravas and Guru Drona returned to Hastinapur. A year passed and in that one year, firmness, kindness, knowledge, benevolence and patience of Yudhishthira spread all across Hastinapur. Beholding the popularity of young prince, Dhritarashtra in agreement of other elders declared Yudhishthira as heir apparent. Albeit he wanted his son Duryodhana to be the next king, but Yudhishthira was proving to be most deserving among all princes.

That decision of all elders of selecting Yudhishthira as the Yuvraj of Hastinapur, didn’t go well with Duryodhana. Since childhood, Duryodhana had felt the Pandava brothers as his prime opponents and with the decision of Yudhishthira becoming Yuvraj, all his hopes of becoming king and ruling Hastinapur were ruined. At all means he wanted to get the Pandava brothers killed and with the support of Karna and Shakuni made couple of attempts to compass the death of the Pandavas. But Pandavas with their skills and prowess, counteracted all the acts and remained unhurt. The popularity of the five Pandu sons was growing day after day, and a sense among the citizens started floating to see Yudhishthira on the throne.  Beholding the enthusiasm and eagerness of the denizens, Bhishma suggested to coronate Yudhishthira as the king of Hastinapur. Bhishma was sure that Yudhishthira would be able to balance the growing friction among brothers and his benevolence will help reduce the growing differences among the population of Hastinapur.

But, Duryodhana had some other plans. He already had accepted Pandavas as threat to his dreams. And then came the time of festival of Pasupathi in Varnavat. The festival came with a devil plan in Duryodhana’s mind. And He with his uncle Shakuni started paving the path for his vile act. While Shakuni ordered preparation of a palace made of wax, erected on bamboos and dried woods in Varnavat, Duryodhana started convincing his father Dhritarashtra to send Yudhishthira to Varnavat to participate in festival as Yuvraj of Hastinapur. Dhritarashtra couldn’t negate the stubborn ask of his son and asked Yudhishthira to go to Varnavat.

Not knowing the dreadful and deceitful act of his cousin, Yudhishthira decided to go. Duryodhana convinced him to stay in the newly built palace, the palace of wax. The other brothers of Yudhishthira and mother Kunti too decided to go with Yudhishthira.

All was going as per the plan of Duryodhana and Shakuni, when Vidura sensed the danger. He sensed the concealing debauchery in the fake smiling faces of uncle-nephew duo. He sensed something behind the mirror of fakery which Duryodhana had planned to hurt the Pandavas. He wanted to stop Pandavas from going but couldn’t and hence he decided to alert Yudhishthira. At the time when Pandavas were leaving for Varnavat and came to meet elders, Vidura took Yudhishthira aside and expressed his fear of danger on Pandavas lives. He said, “If jungle catches fire, mice and rodents hid in burrows.” Yudhishthira wasn’t convinced that his own cousins could plan his death. But he ensured Vidura that he would be alert and take care of his family members.

The caravan of Pandavas reached Varnavat. The town was decorated for the festival and the people were excited to welcome the Yuvraj of Hastinapur. They welcomed Pandavas and Kunti with great reverence and presented several gifts as sign of honor to royal guests. Yudhishthira too gifted each citizen with jewels, ornaments and other princely gifts. The festival was planned for several days and hence later in the evening all five brothers with Kunti went to the palace for their stay. The palace of wax was decorated with several flowers and painted with different colors. The finest artistry was in display and many servants were put in the service of Yuvraj.

Pandavas were accompanied by Purochana, a mole of Duryodhana. Purochana was involved in the construction of the wax palace, and also instructed by Duryodhana to fire the palace when Pandavas get comfortable in Varnavat. But Purochana was least aware that Yudhishthira was already alerted by Vidura.

After entering the palace, Yudhishthira asked his brothers to inspect the whole house and find out all the suspicious things. And as expected, they found that the house was made of wax and dried woods, and there was no alternate exit present in that palace. The only exit was guarded by Purochana. Hence Pandavas decided not to do anything which could raise suspicion in Purochana’s mind and whenever the right time come, they would escape.

Few days later, a man came to meet Yudhishthira. He was sent by Vidura and was a miner. He was a skilled miner and on orders of Vidura, came there to make a tunnel to rescue the Pandavas from any danger. Immediately, he took up the task and started digging the channel. During day he was guarded by either of the Pandavas to avoid contact with Purochana or his spies. Days passed, and the miner finally dug the entire tunnel whose other end was opened near a river. He accomplished what he was sent for and then he took leave of Yudhishthira and went away.

Now, a day was to be decided to escape. They wanted to escape without letting anyone know, not even Purochana.

Kunti suggested to host a grand dinner for all countrymen and when all people would be busy in the event, they could plan the escape. Yudhishthira agreed and ordered to arrange a grand feast for all residents of Varnavat. All were invited, irrespective of their social status. Hundreds of people gathered for the feast and there came a Nishad woman with her five sons. The sons of same age of five Pandavas. After the dinner was over people left, but that Nishada woman and her sons slept in one corner of that palace. Purochana too went into his room and slept.

At the midnight hour, Bhima set the house of wax on fire. He set the fire to the door of house, he set fire near Purochana’s room and he set fire at several other places in the house ensuring that the house should be burnt completely. Pandavas with mother Kunti then entered the subterranean passage prepared by the miner and escaped from the house.

Beholding the fire in palace, the people of Varnavat ran towards the palace and tried to pacify the fire but in vain. The whole mansion was burnt to ashes leaving the citizens in a belief that the five brothers and mother were killed in the fire.

On the other hand, Pandavas came out of the tunnel and ran towards river Ganga. There they found a boatman, a prudent spy of Vidura who was present there with his boat. All brothers with their mother than successfully escaped in that boat, crossed the river, and entered into the other side of the jungle. That was a terrible forest which resounded with the terrible cries of birds and beasts. But the brothers kept going deep into the woods, not knowing where the next stop will be.

The news of fire in palace reached Hastinapur in no time. Duryodhana was elated as he thought he was successful in his plans, Dhritarashtra was sad as he believed he lost the sons of his brother. Bhishma was shattered knowing the untimely and horrible end of his grandsons, but Vidura was smiling within. Only he knew he had saved the future of Hastinapur.

This ends our today’s episode. We will meet soon with the next episode and know where the fate of Pandavas will take them.

Before we go, lets listen to the back story of Drona and Drupada, their childhood friendship and how friends became foes. So, the story goes like this –

Drona and Drupada were both the students of Drona’s father Rishi Bhardwaj. While Drona was son of a poor Brahman, Drupada was son King Prishata, ruler of Panchal. They both became friends while living in the ashram, so close that they promised to each other that whatever they would earn in life, they would divide between themselves. Half of Drupada’s wealth would be of Drona and vice-versa. That was the childhood promise. Drupada after completion of education returned to Panchal, and with time became the king of Panchal and got involved into affairs of his kingdom.

Here, Drona was living a difficult life in poverty. He got married to Kripi and they became parents of Ashwatthama. There was not enough food and milk in the hermitage to fulfil the needs of the family and finding it difficult to survive without support, Drona decided to meet his friend Drupada and remind him of the childhood promise.

Drona went to Panchal, met Drupada and reminded him of the promise. He demanded half kingdom of Panchal as Drupada was the king then. Drupada laughed and said how a promise made in childhood could become base of dividing the kingdom. He further said, “If you don’t have source for food, I will give you a cow. You can feed your son with cow’s milk.”

This made Drona furious and finding it as an act of insult by Drupada, Drona promised him that he would return one day and snatch the entire kingdom from him. That was the day when childhood friends became foes.

Later Drona visited Parashuram and sought powerful weapons from him and then became mentor of princes of Hastinapur. After completion of education of princes of Hastinapur, he demanded them to captivate Drupada and seize his kingdom. And this is how just a childhood promise became the root of enmity between Drona and Drupada.

The post MB Series Episode 7: The Palace of Wax appeared first on αníkєt s shαrmα.

MB Series Episode 6: Rangbhumi, Karna and his lineage

Years passed and the education of all princes in the Gurukul of Drona and Kripa completed. That was the day of Graduation when on the orders of king Dhritarashtra, a large stadium was prepared for the citizens of Hastinapur to witness the prowess of princes of Hastinapur. “Rangbhumi” was decorated and citizens gathered to welcome the future of Hastinapur.

Amid the cheering crowd, entered the caravan of brothers, following their Guru, Drona. The energetic denizens showered flowers and shouted slogans to welcome their beloved princes. All princes, learnt in different scriptures, war forms, array formations, politics and other traits were returning to their home. Arjuna’s prowess and skills were unparalleled and he excelled in various fields to be called as the warrior. Be it the challenge of targeting the eye of hanging metal bird, be it hitting the targets in dark, Arjuna’s excellence had no match and, on that day, each pair of eyes was waiting to witness the miracles of skilled Arjuna. Born with the blessings of Indra but became learnt warrior with his determination, Arjuna was welcomed by roaring crowd as he reached the center ofRangbhumi.

All princes showed their strengths before the mesmerizing crowd and proud elders. Skills of swords, lances, maces and bows and arrows left the viewers awestruck. They were witnessing the never-seen-before skills and were elated seeing the calibers of future generation.

While Arjuna was busy showing his skills using the powerful mantra evoked arrows showering like torrent, a man wearing golden shield entered the arena. In a loud voice he demanded to show his skills as well. “I can also show what this prince of Hastinapur is doing with his arrows. This is like a child play.”, uttered proud man.

Beholding the man with extraordinaire effulgence and decked with weapons, Drona said, “This arena welcomes all skills. You are welcomed to show your strengths.” Then with the permission of Drona, he showed his great skills. Witnessing his dexterity, Duryodhana and his other brothers praised him. Duryodhana with extreme joy said, “Welcome O mighty warrior! This is our fortune to see you. Ask, what you desire.” To which the man replied, “I don’t desire anything except your friendship. But my one wish is to have single combat with Arjuna.” “So be it”, said delighted Duryodhana.

Guru Kripa, beholding the over joyous Duryodhana, said, “O mighty-armed one, Arjuna will get into duel with you, but before that you have to introduce yourself, and tell the names of your parents.”

That man decked with golden shield in loud voice said, “My name is Karna, I am son of Radha and Adhiratha. My father belongs to Suta varna. Because of this I am son of a Suta.”

Listening to words of Karna, Bhima started laughing and mockingly said, “Son of Suta can’t fight with son of Kshatriya.” Yudhishthira tried to calm Bhima, but Bhima continued making fun of Karna. The entire arena then got divided into two groups, Duryodhana and his brothers favored Karna while others favored Arjuna. When Duryodhana saw this non-stop mock and exchange of words between the two groups, he raised his voice and said, “If the lineage of my friend, Karna, is becoming a hurdle, I extend my support to install him the king of Anga. And from today, this world will know Karna as the king of Anga Pradesh. Now nobody can stop Karna having combat with Arjuna.”

Arjuna and Karna stood at the center of the field, and the world was about to witness the duel of two titans, when the sun gradually set. It was evening and Guru Kripa announced to call off the event. It was end of the eventful day. Arjuna’s prowess was witnessed by the citizens of Hastinapur and Duryodhana got Karna as his answer for Arjuna’s skills.

Days passed and one day, the princes of Hastinapur, gathered before Guru Drona and asked his wish as preceptor fee. It was tradition to pay the preceptor’s fee as per the desire of the Guru and the disciples had to follow the wishes. Guru Drona then asked something which nobody could think, he said, “Seize Drupada, the king of Panchal, in battle and bring him to me. That will be the most acceptable fee.”

Following the orders of Drona, Pandavas and Kauravas with Drona proceeded towards Panchal on the decided day. After days of travel, the caravan reached the outskirts of Panchal. A messenger was sent with Drona’s message for King Drupada to either fight or surrender. But the king of Panchal, Drupada, wasn’t ready to give up his kingdom without fighting.

Drona then sent Duryodhana, Karna, and other Kaurava brothers to captivate the king Drupada. But King Drupada and his son Satyajit fought valiantly and the troop of Duryodhana returned defeated. Drona then turn to Arjuna and Bhima. The two Pandava brothers took the charge and like angry lions attacked the Panchal army. Bhima was ruthlessly slaying anyone coming to his way and Arjuna, decided to rush towards Drupada. Soon he reached near Drupada but Drupada was protected by his son Satyajit. Satyajit gave tough combat to Arjuna, and it was first single combat of Arjuna before an unknown warrior. Arjuna showered hundreds of arrows on Satyajit, repeatedly cutting his arrows and negating the attacks of general of Panchal army. Soon Satyajit surrendered and desisted from the fight.

King Drupada was now on the target of Arjuna and as Arjuna promised to his Guru, he brought Drupada before his Guru. Seeing captivated Drupada, Drona arrogantly said, “King of Panchal, your kingdom and capital is now in my control. Your life is controlled by my wish. But fear not, I am not here to take your life.” Drupada stood silently.

Drona mellowed his voice and said, “Drupada, my affection and love for you have grown. Our childhood memories of our gurukul are still fresh in my mind. Do you want to revive our friendship again? And as a boon, I give you half of this kingdom which is won by my disciples.”

Drupada’s eyes were full of tears. Tears of remorse or anger, only he knew but he didn’t utter a word. Drona moved closer to Drupada and said, “This southern side of Bhagirathi will be yours and I will rule the northern part. I have kept my childhood promise, gave you half which belonged to me.” Drona mocked at helplessness of Drupada and asked him to return to his palace.

So why Drona asked for captivating Drupada? What was the story of division of half wealth? What was the childhood story of Drona and Drupada? We will check this story in next episode.

Before ending today’s episode, let’s listen to the backstory of Karna. So, the story goes like this – 

Long before the marriage of Kunti with Pandu, when she was living with her foster father Kuntibhoja, she was blessed with a mantra by Rishi Durvasa. The mantra had the power to call upon any God to seek a son from him, indeed a powerful mantra, which even God couldn’t refuse. Young Kunti in her maidenhood fell prey of her inquisitiveness and one day she used the mantra to invoke God Sun. With the power of mantra, Sun God appeared. Kunti got scared, she didn’t know what to do. She was not married, and there was no choice of having child in maidenhood. She was affrighted. She folded her hands and said, “O God! This is my foolishness. I was doubtful of power of mantra and hence, thought of using it.”

Sun God smiled and said, “Dear! The power of mantra cannot go in vain. I have to honor the mantra.”

“But I am not married.”, replied Kunti.

“Don’t worry, nothing will happen to your maidenhood.”, replied the God and blessed Kunti. And when the time came, a child with effulgence of Sun was born. He was born with natural shield, as blessings of God. But Kunti didn’t want to reveal the secret of the birth of child and she then put the baby in a basket and floated the basket in river.

The basket carrying infant drifted and reached to the other part of the land where a mighty warrior with name Adhiratha found the basket and infant. He was childless and thus took the baby with him. His wife Radha accepted the baby and raised him as her own son. This boy grew and was called as Karna.

Adhiratha was prince of Anga Pradesh, founded by King Anga, one of the five sons of great ascetic king Bali. Bali’s five sons were Anga, Banga, Sumha, Pundra and Kalinga. Anga was the eldest and ruled over Anga Pradesh, one of the divisions of Bali’s kingdom. Adhiratha was descendant of King Anga and was son of Satyakarma. Satyakarma married a Brahmin woman and thus as per the rules of Varna system, the son born of Kshatriya father and Brahmin mother belonged to Suta Varna. Adhiratha took varna as pride and always addressed himself as Suta. Therefore, Karna was called as son of Suta. Not because his father was a charioteer but because his father chose to be called as Suta.

Later Karna went to the gurukul of Guru Drona, but Karna chose to leave Drona and find some other teacher. He became disciple of Parashuram by concealing his identity.

So, when Karna entered the Rangbhumi to have combat with Arjuna, he knew his real identity. He knew that he was anyway going to be the ruler of Anga but chose to remain silent when Duryodhana extended his support to Karna. Karna, born with blessings of Sun God and raised by another great warrior Adhiratha, became close ally of Duryodhana.

The post MB Series Episode 6: Rangbhumi, Karna and his lineage appeared first on αníkєt s shαrmα.

MB Series Episode 5: Birth of Pandavas and Kauravas

Pandu started living ascetic life in forest. He dedicated his life in prayers and meditation. He was desirous of offspring but due to curse of the sage couldn’t approach his wives. Kunti, when came to know about the desires of Pandu told him about a powerful mantra she had. She was blessed by Rishi Durvasa that she could call any God using that mantra and can be blessed with a son of that God. After knowing about mantra, Pandu’s excitement had no limits. Finally, he got a way to have his son. He requested Kunti to use the mantras, invoke the God of Dharma, and be blessed with their first son. Kunti followed the wishes of Pandu and used the mantras to call God Yama. Yama honored the mantras, appeared, and blessed Kunti with the first son. Happiness came into the desolated life of Pandu. They named the first born as Yudhishthira.

Some time later, Pandu once again requested Kunti to use the mantras. He said the prince needs a powerful protector and hence call upon God Vayu to bless her. Kunti followed and got blessed with another son from Vayu. This boy was born with the strength of elephants and was named Bhima. But the greed of man has no ends, Pandu said, “O Kunti! Now we have our successor and a protector, but who will expand the kingdom. We need a skilled son who can protect the dominions of our land. So, let’s pray to God Indra to bless us with a son.” Following this, they both prayed for a year and pleased God Indra. Indra honored the power of mantras and appeared when Kunti called him. Indra blessed Kunti with the most skilled boy and predicted that the boy would remain unparalleled. Nobody would be able to match his expertise. They named this newborn as Arjuna.

Kunti was now mother of three sons. Madri the other wife of Pandu, one day, expressed her wishes. She too wanted to contribute for the future generations of Pandu. Beholding Madri’s desires, Pandu requested Kunti to share the mantras with Madri. Kunti did so and Madri was blessed with twin sons – Nakul and Sahadeva from the twin Gods Ashwin brothers.

On the other side in the palace of Hastinapur, Gandhari too was blessed with hundred sons with eldest named Duryodhana and a daughter named Dussala. That was the time before Gandhari’s pregnancy when, Rishi Vyasa visited Hastinapur. Gandhari ensured the comfort of the rishi and hence he asked Gandhari about her wishes. She asked for a century of sons equal in strength like her husband. Gandhari got pregnant but even after completion of full pregnancy cycle no child was born. She waited but nothing happened and one day when her patience overpowered her, she tried to push the baby out of her womb. But there was no baby but a piece of flesh, she cried and prayed to Rishi Vyasa. She didn’t know what to do with that piece of flesh.  

Soon, Rishi Vyasa appeared and said, “My boon doesn’t go in futile. I never speak untruth. Why didn’t you wait?” Gandhari had no answer. She wept and wept.

Rishi then asked to bring 100 earthen pots filled with water. He started cutting that lump of flesh into smaller pieces and while he was doing so, Gandhari said, “O Lord! I also want a daughter along with the 100 sons.” “So be it!”, said rishi and asked for a smaller pot filled with water. He put all those 101 pieces in earthen pots and kept in secluded place. And when the time came, the children of Gandhari born out of those pots as blessed by Rishi Vyasa.

Years passed. Duryodhana with his other brothers was growing up in palace, while Yudhishthira with his brothers in forest.

It was springtime. And one day Pandu and Madri forgot their sorrows with the throbbing life around them, the happy flowers, creepers, birds and other creatures of the forest. Pandu’s resolution broke down under the exhilarating influence of the season, and at once the curse of the sage took effect and Pandu fell, dead. Madri couldn’t contain her sorrow and entered the pyre of Pandu, leaving behind her two sons Nakul and Sahadeva. Kunti took the responsibility of five sons and decided to return to Hastinapur.

It was not easy for sons of Pandu and Dhritarashtra to accept each other warmly and friction started growing among the brothers. Bhishma then decided to send all the princes to the ashram of Guru Kripacharya. All princes were sent to the ashram and their education started. Meanwhile, Satyavati with Ambika and Ambalika decided to walk into the forest and live like ascetics as per the advice of Rishi Vyasa.

One day, few of the princes were playing with a ball made of hay when suddenly it fell into a well. All saddened were just wandering how to bring that ball out. Looking at the ball they couldn’t decide what to do. After some time, a man in white robes and hair matted like a sage passed through the place. Observing the bewildered princes, he asked about the reason of their sorrow. He said, “O Sons! What are you all looking at?” One replied, “our ball has gone into the well and we don’t know how to bring it out. We don’t have ropes.” The sage asked, “Aren’t you Kshatriyas?”

Arjuna came out from the group and said, “Lord! We are Kshatriyas, princes of Hastinapur.”

“What kind of Kshatriya are you when you don’t know how to pull out the ball from the well?”, mockingly said the sage.

All bowed their heads, embarrassed, couldn’t utter a word. Arjuna silently walked forward, bowed down before the sage and said, “O Great man! If you know how to pull out the ball without ropes, please help us.” The sage smiled and said, “Collect few sticks and bring them to me.” Few of the princes ran and collected dried sticks and came back. The sage then threw one stick into the well targeting the ball. The stick got stuck into the ball and then he did something extraordinary. He threw more sticks, each piercing the previous one, made a long chain. And then the ball was taken out.

Arjuna watched the act inquisitively.

Later in the day, Bhishma visited the ashram and then Arjuna told him the entire event. Bhishma immediately got that the act was not normal, it was certainly done by someone expert. He enquired about it with Guru Kripa and found that the sage was Dronacharya. Drona was Kripa’s sister Kripi’s husband, who came to visit Kripa. Bhishma immediately requested Drona to teach the princes of Hastinapur, the art of handling weapons.

Drona accepted the proposal and soon his fame spread all around. The gurukul of Drona accepted many students from varied backgrounds, few sons of kings, few sons of countrymen.

Arjuna was leading the training and soon he became favorite of Guru Drona. While other princes picked their favorite weapons, Arjuna chose “bows and arrows”. He used to practice all day without break. There was one more student in the gurukul of Drona who had special interest in handling bows and arrows. He had special envy on Arjuna. He became close friend of Duryodhana and like other brothers of Duryodhana participated in teasing the Pandava brothers. His ambitions were high, his vision was strong, but he chose not to grow with Arjuna and other Pandavas. Albeit elder than Arjuna, he always saw Arjuna as his competitor. This young boy was Karna. Karna grew with princes of Hastinapur, learnt under the supervision of Kripa and Drona but his obscured vision took him away from the path of righteousness. And one day, he decided to walk away from the gurukul of Drona, without giving any reasons.

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MB Series Episode 4: Curse on Pandu

Bhishma took the responsibility of education of Dhritarashtra, Pandu and Vidura. He supervised their learnings till the time they reach adolescence. They had gone through the lessons on political affairs, economics, finances, science of war, and weapon handling skills. Vidura as predicted by Vyasa became the most learned scholar. He became expert in politics and managing the kingdoms. Pandu became expert in weapons handling while Dhritarashtra never brought his deficiency as hurdle in his learnings. Years of education completed and the young princes Dhritarashtra and Pandu with Vidura returned to Hastinapur.

Hastinapur was decorated with flowers and the palace was decked with divine fragrance to welcome the grown-up princes and the future king. The wait of years was about to end. The burden on Bhishma’s shoulder was about to shifted.

In presence of all courtiers and royal members, Bhishma made Vidura as the prime minister of Hastinapur. Albeit Dhritarashtra was elder son but he was not fit to rule the kingdom of Hastinapur and hence, Pandu was coronated as the new king. Hail Pandu! Hail Hastinapur! the entire courtroom got filled with the praises of new king. And Pandu took over the responsibility gracefully under the guidance of his elder, Dhritarashtra. Life in Hastinapur started coming back to normal gradually.

Time came, Satyavati and Bhishma decided to marry Dhritarashtra. The responsibility of selecting bride for Dhritarashtra came on Bhishma’s shoulders and he decided to seek the daughter of king of Gandhar, Gandhari as the bride of Dhritarashtra. A caravan of hundreds of soldiers with group of servants carrying jewels, ornaments, and other princely gifts proceeded towards Gandhar. The excited acolytes with Bhishma reached Gandhar and Bhishma put the proposal Subala, the king of Gandhar. Subala was left with no option but to accept Bhishma’s proposal. After all, denying Bhishma’a words was like inviting one’s own destruction.

Bhishma returned Hastinapur with Gandhari and her marriage with Dhritarashtra was duly solemnised. But Gandhari after knowing the blindness of her husband, decided which nobody thought. She decided to blindfold herself for rest of her life. Indeed a harsh decision.

Kuntibhoja, a leader of Yadu dynasty invited the kings and princes of neighbouring countries for the Swayamvar of his daughter Kunti. Pandu, the king of Hastinapur was also invited and Kunti accepted Pandu as her husband. Pandu married Kunti following all rituals and they returned Hastinapur.

Soon after, Bhishma thought of getting Pandu married to a second wife. He reached out to king of Madra, Shalya, and asked for his sister Madri getting married to Pandu. Pandu’s marriage with Madri solemnised too. Gradually, Pandu got engaged in routine works of the kingdom.

As a king, Pandu had the responsibilities of expanding the dominions of Hastinapur and ensure no evil eyes pry on the kingdom. Hence, in pursuance of maintaining harmony with neighbouring countries he went on a long journey, meeting the kings and princes of all surrounding regions.

Months later, he returned as an unparalleled king with no living enemy of Hastinapur. His success was glorified and the treasury of Hastinapur was filled with uncountable wealth.

One day, Pandu was out hunting. He spotted a pair of deer sporting in the forest and shot the male deer with an arrow. But, that deer was a rishi in disguise and stricken to death, the rishi cursed Pandu that he would die if advance towards his wives for sensual pleasures. Pandu was heartbroken. He couldn’t come out of the guilt of killing a rishi, and thus decided to walk into the forest leaving behind the pleasures and comfort of the palace. His two wives Kunti and Madri too walked with him. Pandu started living a life of an ascetic and started following chastised life, while in his absence, Dhritarashtra his elder brother was given the responsibility of the kingdom. He became the caretaker of the throne and started ruling Hastinapur on behalf of his brother.

So here we will stop the story but before we go, let’s visit the back story of Vidura. Why Vidura was born to a maid? Why he was not destined to rule? So the story goes like this –

Once there lived a sage called Mandavya devoted to truth and Dharma. One day a bunch of robbers with their looted booty hid in his abode without knowledge of rishi. When the guards came in search of the robbers, they found them with the wealth inside the hermitage. Guards took the robbers along with the rishi with them and per the orders of the king, all were executed including the rishi.

Rishi was left all alone deprived of food and water but he didn’t give up his life. He was in extreme pain but breathing. The guards reported it to the king and remorse filled the king. He immediately called upon the best physicians to take care of the sage and ordered to release the sage from captivity.

Days passed, and sage after recovering from pain, entered into deep meditation. With the truthfulness of his deeds, Rishi Mandavya walked into the abode of Dharma, the God of death, Yama. Beholding Yama sitting on his throne, inquisitive Mandavya asked, “What is that sinful act committed by me for which I was given such harsh punishment? O god of justice, tell me what act of mine made you to throw me in peril?

Dharma replied, “O man of great asceticism! Once in your childhood you pierced a blade of grass into a little insect. You thus had to bear the consequence of your act. The sin committed by you multiplied and hence you had to face the suffering in your life.” Bewildered Mandavya asked, “Tell me what was my age when unknowingly the sin was committed?”

“Twelve years!” replied the god of justice.

“O lord! you are god of justice, how could you forget that a sin committed by a child till twelve years of his age shouldn’t be considered as sin. The scriptures do not recognise it as sinful.”, replied Mandavya in painful voice.

“The killing of a sage is a sin heavier than any other. And the burden of my execution lies on your shoulder. O god of justice, I, Mandavya, curse you to be born in human order. Your wisdom will not gain you the throne.”, continued Mandavya.

Years later, Vidura was born as incarnation of Dharma as a result of curse of sage Mandavya. He was born with all wisdom and truthfulness but no authority on throne.

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MB Series Episode 3: Birth of Dhritarashtra, Pandu and Vidura

Vichitravirya became the king of Hastinapur and Bhishma’s guarding ensured no evil eye prying on the throne. When Vichitravirya reached adolescence, Bhishma got the responsibility to find fitting queen for the new king of Hastinapur.

King of Kashi hosted an event for her three daughters, Amba, Ambika and Ambalika, to choose their grooms. Soon, the news of Swayamvar of princesses of Kashi spread and Bhishma found them the best for Vichitravirya. Bhishma decided to go Kashi and win the bride for his brother. Kashi was decorated for the Swayamvar and the princes and kings of remote regions were gathered to prove their credibility. When Bhishma entered, the guests present for the event thought that Bhishma came there to win Swayamvar for himself and they mockingly said, “Seems the beauty of princesses has stolen the oath of this celibate. He must have forgotten that this is Swayamvar and not any battlefield.”

Those piercing words made Bhishma wrathful and he said in loud voice, “I am here representing my king, Vichitravirya. And I am taking these three princesses of Kashi with me.

If any of the kings present here wants to challenge, he must have to win against me.” Nobody dared to stop Bhishma and he took the princesses with him.

While Bhishma with the three princesses, Amba, Ambika and Ambalika, was heading back towards Hastinapur, King Salva blocked his way. Salva and Amba wanted to get married even before Swayamvar was arranged, but nobody knew about it. Salva challenged Bhishma but he couldn’t stand before him for long. Bhishma was a peerless bowman and he defeated Salva. But on Amba’s request Bhishma spared Salva’s life.

They arrived Hastinapur and mother Satyavati delightedly welcomed the princesses. The marriage ceremony was arranged but before the rituals started, Amba revealed about her love for King Salva. She said, “I have mentally chosen King Salva as my husband and my heart will not accept anyone else now.” And then she mockingly addressed Bhishma, “O Son of Ganga! You are learned in scriptures, so tell me after knowing my truth, what will you do?”

Bhishma politely arranged the return of Amba with full princely honors. But when Amba told everything to Salva, he refused to accept Amba. He said, “Bhishma defeated me in a duel and carried you in front of everyone. I can’t accept you as my wife now.”  Disappointed Amba returned to Hastinapur and sought Bhishma to marry her but Bhishma was bound to his oath. Finding no refuge Amba walked out of the courtroom of Hastinapur saying, “Because of you I am suffering. O Bhishma! I will be the cause of your death.”

Vichitravirya’s marriage with Ambika and Ambalika consummated but didn’t last long. Vichitravirya lost his life early and his two wives were left childless. Once again, the throne was left without king and the crown without owner. Satyavati tried to persuade Bhishma to ascend the throne but Bhishma didn’t agree. She even tried to free Bhishma from her father’s promises during her marriage with Shantanu, but in vain. Bhishma’s vow was firm. He already had decided to serve the throne for lifetime, but not to ascend it as a king.

Satyavati’s worries increased multifold as there was no heir of the throne.

One day, Satyavati called Bhishma and asked him to invite sage Krishna Dwapayan. Bhishma followed the instructions and personally went to bring the sage. The matted locked and dark-complexioned ascetic with long beard and firmness in his eyes, Krishna Dwapayan came to Hastinapur on the request of Satyavati.

Satyavati asked for his help. She asked him to bless the queen Ambika with the future king of Hastinapur. Initially the sage was reluctant, but he couldn’t refuse the request of Satyavati. He said, “I need some time to prepare myself for this union. I appear unpleasant due to the rigorous austerities.” Satyavati said, “I don’t want to wait any further. The kingdom should get its heir as soon as possible.” The sage then agreed to the wishes of Satyavati. 

Satyavati convinced Ambika to enter to the quarters of the sage for the union. But the harsh looks on the face of the sage affrighted Ambika. She couldn’t hold the sight for long and closed her eyes while her unison with the sage. The sage foresighted the future and told Satyavati that the child born out of their union would be blind.

“The citizens will not accept a blind king.”, said Satyavati and requested Krishna Dwapayan to bless her second daughter-in-law, Ambalika. She asked Ambalika to enter the chamber of the sage, as she requested Ambika before. But Ambalika couldn’t face the frightening looks of the sage and went pale. The union of that sage with Ambalika was about to bore a child with pale look. He would be physically fit but not ideal for being a king. Satyavati’s miseries grew. She didn’t want the throne to be decked with a king who lacks any of the qualities. She tried to persuade Ambika again but this time she sent her maid into the quarters of the sage. That maid ensured the comfort of sage and dutifully served him without any fear. That maid of Ambika then bore a healthy child.

In due course, Ambika gave birth to a blind son, Dhritarashtra. Ambalika gave birth to a pale child Pandu and that maid of Ambika, gave birth to a healthy child, Vidura. Vidura was born with all the supreme knowledge. The three children, then in supervision of Bhishma grew and gained the knowledge of scriptures, war fares and politics.

The sage Krishna Dwapayan who blessed the queens of Hastinapur is known to the world as Ved Vyasa.

But why he agreed to requests of Satyavati? And what was his relationship with Satyavati?

So, the story goes like this –

During her maidenhood, Satyavati used to help her father Dusharaja in routine business of ferrying passengers on the river Yamuna. She was born with a peculiar smell of a fish and was unpleasant too. One fine day, Rishi Parashar was travelling on her boat. He looked at her and his desires roused. He wanted to unite with the lady of unusual smell but submissive beauty. The desires ruled and sage Parashar expressed his wish. The lady understood the determined sage and honored the desires but put a condition.

She said, “I stink like a fish and union in such unpleasant smell will not be fruitful.” The sage understood and with his Yogic powers turned the unpleasant smell to a musk fragrance.

The union impregnated the young lady and at due time she gave birth to a boy in an island on river Yamuna. The boy with the powers of Rishi Parashar born with unmatched intelligence. He was named as Krishna Dwapayan (one with black skin tone and born on an island). So, Krishna Dwapayan was actually son of Satyavati born in her maidenhood. As the boy grew, he walked into the woods and followed the path of ascetism. He promised that whenever his mother would need him, he would come and help her. And hence, when Satyavati asked Krishna Dwapayan to bless the queens, he couldn’t refuse.

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MB Series Episode 2: Bhishma Pratigya

Years passed since Ganga left Shantanu and went away with their eighth child, Devavrata. The life of Shantanu was shattered. He had seen the death of his seven sons, the seven newborns. Even being the supreme lord of kingdom, he could do nothing. And when he gathered courage to stop Ganga, he was blamed of breaking his promise, and Ganga took the boy with her.

One day, Shantanu was roaming across the banks of a river, when he saw an adolescent playing with his bow and arrows. His dexterity amazed Shantanu and he stopped to witness the skills of that young man. While Shantanu was busy watching that young man, Ganga came, and revealed, “O Lord! This boy whom you are seeing with amazement is your son, Devavrata.”

Those words of Ganga were like dew drops on the deserted life of Shantanu. Delighted, he saw the boy in amazement. There was no end to his cheerfulness. He rushed towards his son, embraced him and the tears were rolling continuously through his cheeks. Ganga kept her promise. She came back with grown-up son of Shantanu. The joy and happiness returned to the life of Shantanu, and the kingdom of Hastinapur received its new heir. Years passed and Shantanu gradually shifted the responsibilities of the kingdom on Devavrata.

One fine day, when Shantanu was out for hunt, he experienced divinely fragrance mixed with the cool breeze. He started walking towards the source of smell. To his surprise, he saw a young woman. That woman with divine beauty immediately took away the heart of King Shantanu. He hadn’t experienced such emotions since the time Ganga left him, but that day, he once again got arrested by the desires and affection. He walked towards her and asked, “Who are you, O Goddess of Beauty!”

“I am Satyavati, daughter of a fisherman.”, she replied in her melodious voice. Shantanu got more attracted towards her and he expressed his desire of marrying her.

She smiled and said, “O Lord! You will have to seek permission from my father.”

Shantanu, who already have surrendered before that splendid demoiselle, immediately agreed to meet her father and asked for his permission for their nuptial.

Satyavati’s father, Dusharaja, listened to Shantanu’s proposal and agreed immediately. After all who can refuse the proposal of a king.  But Dusharaja put a strong condition. He said, “O King! My daughter was born to rule the world and your presence here proves it. But before marrying her, you have to make one promise to me.”

“What is the promise?”, asked proud Shantanu. “I can give any amount of wealth for Satyavati.”, he added.

Dusharaja said, “This daughter of mine is no ordinary. And so, will be her children. Thus, you will have to promise me that the son born out of her will be the king after you.”

Albeit Shantanu wanted to marry Satyavati, but certainly not on that condition. He already had declared Devavrata as Yuvaraj. Hence, he politely denied and came back to his kingdom. But that sight of Satyavati didn’t go off his mind and he couldn’t hide his silence too. Devavrata sensed the changed behavior of his father and one day he asked, “O Father! What is making you unhappy? What is keeping the king of Hastinapur in sorrow?”

Shantanu didn’t tell anything about Satyavati and tried to convince Devavrata with his made-up smile. Devavrata was unconvinced but he didn’t want to question his father more.
Hence, he walked away from his chamber, with a thought of asking his father’s charioteer. He questioned the charioteer and came to know about the truth of Shantanu’s meeting with Satyavati. He immediately decided to go, meet them, and convince the father of Satyavati for her marriage with his father.

Dusharaja, father of Satyavati, was firm on his conditions. He repeated the condition before Devavrata. Devavrata readily agreed, “I give my word to you that the son born of this maiden will be the king after my father. I renounce my rights as heir apparent.”

Dusharaja said, “O noble prince! I have no doubt you will keep this promise. But what if, someday, your sons will come and claim their rights.”

Devavrata heard each word of Dusharaja. The sorrowful face of his father flashed in front of his eyes. He paused for a moment, then, raised his arms, looked up to the sky and in loud voice said, “I, son of Ganga, marking the sun, the sky, the rivers, the air, and the plants as my witness, vow that I shall never marry. I will live as the protector of this throne but will never think of ascending it as a king. — Yeh meri Bhishma Pratigya hai”

That day, Devavrata took a vow which nobody thought of. A vow to give up his pleasures for his father and follow a chastised life.  That day, name “Devavrata” died, and a new name “Bhishma” was born.

Bhishma took Satyavati with him and arranged her marriage with his father. Satyavati’s marriage with Shantanu consummated and two sons – Chitrangada and Vichitravirya were born. But before the sons could see their adolescence, Shantanu died. Bhishma took over the responsibility of those two sons of Satyavati.

Years passed and Bhisma’s supervision made the two princes unrivalled. But before the elder son of Satyavati, Chitrangada, could take over the throne, a mishap happened claiming his life. Chitrangada died fighting a Gandharva and thus Vichitravirya had to take over the throne.

Time passed and Vichitravirya got married to princesses of Kasi – Ambika and Ambalika.

So, this was the story of Bhishma Pratigya. In next episode, we will see how Ambika and Ambalika got married to Vichitravirya, and birth of their sons.

Before we close today’s episode, let’s visit why Ganga killed her seven sons in last episode –

In the clan of Ishkvaku, founder of solar dynasty, Mahabhisha was born. He, with his undefeated prowess became the lord of the earth. His intelligence was unmatched and later he attained heaven and became the royal sage among all the Brahmanas in the courtroom of Sakra. One day when all the royal sages and Mahabhisha were performing the rituals for great sire Brahma, the queen of rivers Ganga also came to pay her adorations. As she enters, her clothes got displaced due to winds, leaving her uncomfortable in front of the sages. All the sages bent down their heads but Mahabhisha couldn’t control his emotions and continued staring at the uncomfortable queen of rivers. Seeing the uncontrolled desires of Mahabhisha, the Brahmanas present there cursed him that he had to reborn on the earth and after completing one more cycle of human life would come back. Ganga was also cursed to be born in the human race for one cycle.

While somewhere in other part, eight Vasu brothers were roaming with their wives on their celestial chariots. They crossed the hermitage of Rishi Vashishtha where they saw a cow. She was no ordinary bovine. She was Rishi Vashistha’s Nandini who was born to benefit the people of earth.

The wife of youngest Vasu, Dyu, got allured with the cow and she expressed her desire to take Nandini with them. Dyu couldn’t stand before the obstinacy of his wife and he took away the cow. Vashishtha when came to know about this unethical behaviour of the Vasus, summoned them and cursed all of them to be born on earth as human once. Vasus were ashamed of their act and they begged for the mercy. Considering it was venial act, Vashishtha gave them the option to choose their mother on the earth and told that seven of them can live on earth for one day only, but the youngest one had to complete his human life cycle.

Vasus then started searching for a woman with celestial powers who can hold them in her womb. The fate of Vasus and Ganga matched and when Vasu brothers requested Ganga to accept them as their sons in human form, she agreed. Vasus also asked her to kill the sons as soon as they would born so that they wouldn’t have to live in human form. Ganga accepted but mentioned that she would want one son from her husband to live his full life. Once again the fate met, the youngest Vasu was already cursed to live one human cycle.

Later, king Mahabhisha was reborn as Shantanu, who married Ganga. Ganga gave birth to eight Vasus as her sons, killed first seven but the youngest lived for one human cycle. That youngest Vasu, Dyu, was born as Devavrata, whom we know as Bhishma.

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MB Series Episode 1: The Birth of Devavrata

Mahabharata is not the story of just a dynasty. It is not just the story of two groups fighting a horrendous war ever in the history of humankind. It is not just the story of intelligence of Yudhishthira, strength of Bhima, prowess of Arjuna, and skills of twin brothers. It is neither the story of a blind love of a father nor the story of opportunist Duryodhana. It is neither the story of friends nor of foes. It is neither the story of acumen of Vidura nor the Geeta jnana of Vāsudeva.

The story goes before the coronation of Shantanu, even before when Ganga first requested Pratipa to accept her. It goes even before when King Hasti formed Hastinapur, and even before Kuru, progenitor of Kuru dynasty became the king. It goes even before King Yayāti’s desires overpowered the youth of his son Puru, and even before King Nahusha’s arrogance rode on Saptarishis to possess Sakra’s wife. And it goes before the birth of founder of Chandravansh, Pururavas. The story starts when, Manu, the spiritual son of Brahma and great grandson of Daksha, desired for a boy but blessed with a girl Ilā.

Let us begin our journey of Mahabharata when Shantanu was coronated as king.

In the race of mighty king Bharat, Pratipa was an unrivalled king. He begat three sons Devapi, Shantanu and Bahlika. Devapi adopted the ascetic course of life and entered into woods, leaving behind all the materialistic desires. Bahlika and Shantanu became the guards of the kingdom. Shantanu took the southern part of the kingdom and Bahlika ascended to the northern. Kauravas and Pandavas were progenies of Shantanu.

Shantanu became the unrivalled ruler and he ensured the economic and military growth of the kingdom. He was fond of hunting and one day while out on hunting he encountered with a maiden with spotless beauty. Allured to mystified beauty of demoiselle sitting on the banks of river, he immediately took the decision of marrying her. He approached the beautiful woman no less than a celestial nymph and expressed his affection. He asked if she could accept him as well.

That lady was no other but Ganga, who because of a curse, had to walk on earth for one human cycle. Ganga looked at Shantanu and accepted the proposal but with the condition. The condition was firm and difficult too. She said, “I will accept you as my husband only if you promise that you will never ask me about the actions or decisions I will take in life.” Shantanu arrested by the divine beauty of the damsel couldn’t say no and accepted her as his wife. Days passed and months too. Ganga gave birth to first son of Shantanu. Shantanu was excited. He was elated. The future of his dynasty was born. The progeny who will lead the kingdom of mighty Bharat was born.

Alas! The fate was different for Shantanu. Instead of happiness, the birth of boy brought darkness to Shantanu’s life. Ganga took the newborn and drowned him in river, leaving everyone awestruck. How a mother could kill her newborn? Shantanu thought but couldn’t ask Ganga. He was bond to the shackles of his own promise he gave to Ganga. Awestruck… he started living his life…

That was not the end but the beginning of Shantanu’s miseries. Ganga impregnated second, third… and seventh son of Shantanu, ending all of their lives with same fate. Mercilessly Ganga killed all her sons as they were born. And Shantanu could do nothing. He wanted to stop, he wanted to save his sons but his promise to Ganga was bigger than his emotions. He was shattered.

When the eighth son was born, he couldn’t control his fatherly emotions as it was brim of his agonies. He walked to Ganga and said, “I will not let you kill this son of mine. He is my son, son of king of Hastinapur, the future of great dynasty. I will not let you push the future in darkness. How could you so do so even be a mother?”

Ganga smiled and said, “Lord! You broke your promise and now I cannot stay with you as your queen.” Ganga further said, “I understand your love for your son, so I promise that when your son attains his adolescence, I will return him to you.”

Shantanu left with no choice, surrendered before the wishes of Ganga. Ganga took the newborn with her. That son of Shantanu was named as Devavrata.

So, this was the story of birth of Devavrata. In next episode we will see the return of Devavrata and entry of Satyavati in Shantanu’s life. And if you are interested to know why Ganga killed her seven sons, please put a comment below and we will share the backstory of Devavrata’s birth.

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The Birth of Pandavas

[image error]Five Pandavas – (from left) Arjuna, Bhima, Nakul, Sahadeva, Yusdhishthira

Surasena gave the boon to his cousin Kuntibhoja that he would give his first born to childless brother. Kuntibhoja was obliged with the commitment of his brother. Surasena later kept his promise and as soon as Pritha was born, he gave her to Kuntibhoja. Kuntibhoja gave Pritha a new name, Kunti. Kuntibhoja brought up young girl with all comforts. He ensured the best gurus impart knowledge to his daughter. Kunti became expert in ministerial affairs and started helping her father in decision making.

Days passed and one day sage Durvasa visited Kuntibhoja. He observed devotion and patience of the young Kunti besides being involved in ministries in parallel . And because Kunti ensured all the comfort of sage Durvasa, he was extremely delighted. Pleased sage then gave a boon to Kunti, a mantra to call any god of her choice to seek son of equal calibre of that lord.

Years later, Kunti married Pandu, Kuru dynast and king of Hastinapur. Pandu was a Chakravarti king and ensured the boundaries of Hastinapur free from foes. He signed multiple treaties with smaller kingdoms and ensured that economic growth of the kingdom too. Pandu, in order to extend the treaty with kingdom of Madra, married the princess of Madra, Madri. But the princely affair of Pandu couldn’t last long. While on a hunt in woods, he mistook sage Kidama as deer and shot arrows at him. Rishi was in the act of coitus with his wife and a life was about to born. The act of killing a life before it was born became a curse on Pandu. The curse of end of life if tried to approach his wife with the intent of love making.

Life in Forest

Dejected Pandu walked to woods along with his wives. He followed the life of an ascetic and performed rituals as repentance to his act of killing a sage. But the king had to continue his progeny. The future of Hastinapur was his responsibility too. So, he approached Kunti and shared the reason of his cheerlessness. Indeed, it was fair dilemma of a king and thus Kunti shared the secret of boon she received from sage Durvasa.

It was answer to Pandu’s trepidation and he immediately took that boon as saviour of his dying hopes. Kunti, on command of her master, then prayed to god of Dharma. To honour the power of mantras, God Dharma appeared and blessed Kunti with a son. They named him Yudhishthira, one who remains calm and stagnant even in extreme adverse conditions.

Excited Pandu then said, “Kunti! You have blessed my dying hopes. This son of ours will take our lineage forward. But we need a protector of this boy. Alone, he can’t rule. He needs a brother like rock who stands with him in all highs and lows. My dear, help me fulfil my this desire.” How could Kunti refuse her master and hence she summoned lord Vayu. With the power of mantras Vayu appeared and blessed Kunti with her second son. The infant was born with the power of hundred elephants. They named him Bhima, the mighty one.

Birth of Bhima incepted a greed inside Pandu. He again approached Kunti and said, “Kunti! Undoubtedly this son of ours will protect his elder from all adversaries. He will be a bulwark for foes and nobody will be able to stand before him. But dear, a kingdom needs someone who can protect the boundaries of empire, one who can expand the vicinity and whose presence helps in making treaties with different kingdoms. So, Kunti, please bless me with a son who will be an unparalleled warrior. For this, we will pray to God Indra.” Having said that both Pandu and Kunti devoted themselves in prayers of Indra. Pandu followed rigid vows and after months of prayers and solicitations Indra blessed Pandu with what he wished. Indra blessed Kunti with a son as Pandu desired. They named him Arjuna.

Madri’s Desires

The childless Pandu was now father of three blessed sons. But the human greed never ends and hence he again approached Kunti. This time Kunti said, “I had agreed to your wishes thrice but per scriptures if a woman gets involved with fourth man she is treated as Swairini (one who roams with her desire) and with more than four she becomes harlot. Hence, I will not use the mantras again.”

With the desire of making herself significant in Pandu’s life Madri approached Pandu and said, “Lord! the relevance of this life will be completed only if I too contribute to the progeny of Hastinapur. Sister Kunti will live the life of a queen with her sons but what will happen to me? If I remain childless who will value me? So please devise some plan to help me come out of this meaningless life.” Pandu heard to desolated Madri and agreed upon asking Kunti to share the boon with her.

Kunti heard to Madri’s longings and agreed to share the mantra. Madri on learning the mantra, intelligently, summoned Ashwin brothers. With the power of Mantra, Ashwin brothers with the act of coitus, blessed Madri with handsome twins Nakul and Sahadeva.

Pleased Madri upon receiving the twins, once again asked Kunti to share the mantra. But this time Kunti refused to share the mantra. Kunti knew that another attempt by Madri could lead to birth of more sons to her. This might lead to conflicts among the brothers and also it was threat to Kunti’s authority in Pandu’s life. However, Kunti became the foster mother of Nakul and Sahadeva after death of Pandu and Madri. The five brothers lived together in harmony for their entire life.

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