(Kavitraya) MAHAA BHAARAT
(In Simple English)

Originally written in Sanskritby Bhagavan Veda Vyaasa
(Krishna Dvaipaayana)
Translated into Telugu (a Regional Language of South India)
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Sri Nannaya Bhattaarakah  
Sri Tikkana Somayaaji
Sri Yerra Pragada.
Saint Sooti told Saint Sounaka and other sages and saints gathered at Naimisaranya, on the occasion of Satra Yaga, the story of Maha Bharata, as was told by Saint Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
The seventeenth day of Maha Bharata war was concluded. Dussaasana and Karna were killed. Accompanied by the remaining warriors, Suyodhana retired to his place of stay. Salya was appointed as the Commander in Chief of the Kourava Army.
Both armies gathered at Kurukshetra for 18th day war. By noon time, Dharmaja killed Salya. All the great warriors, fighting on behalf of Suyodhana were killed, one by one. Suyodhana concluded the war and went away alone. He went underground, by hiding himself in a great pond. Pandavas went in search of Suyodhana, found him in the waters of a pond. Pandavas provoked Suyodhana to have a dual fight with any one of them.
There was a dual fight between Suyodhana and Bhimasena. In that dual fight, Bhimasena struck Suyodhana with a mace, below his waist, on his thighs. Suyodhana fell down. His thighs were broken. The Maha Bharata war came to an end.
On that mid night, while the sons of Pandavas and other Pandava warriors were in deep sleep, Asvathama, accompanied by Kripacharya and Kritavarma, entered the tents of Pandava warriors and killed all of them including the sons of Pandavas, Panchala warriors, Prabhadraka and Matsya warriors along with their remaining troops, by severing their heads from their bodies.
Beholding this mass massacre, Sanjaya returned back to Hastina Pura to explain the position in detail to King Dhritarashtra. He entered the inner apartments of King Dhritarashtra. King Dhritarashtra, his wife, his daughters-in-law were waiting eagerly to hear the final developments of war. Sanjaya could not control his grief. He began to weep loudly and said:
“O King Dhritarashtra! King Salya, Ulooka, Samsaptakas, King of Kambhoja, Sataaneeka, all Yavana Kings, all Kings of Hills and Plains, all mlecha troops, and all the Kings who have come to help Suyodhana from all the four corners, were killed. All the sons of Karna were killed. Your son, Suyodhana, was beaten by Bhimasena with his mace below his waist. Suyodhana body is rolling on the banks of river Sarasvati, on the hard surface, unattended and uncared for.
Besdies that, on the side of Pandavas, Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandi, Uttamouja, Yudhamanyu and other Panchala Kings, Chedi, Matsya, Prabhadraka kings and their troops, Prativindhya and other sons of Droupadi, all the remaining chariots, horses, elephant forces have perished in the battle. Even on pandava side, except females, no male is found.
Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma alone remain on our side. Five Pandavas, Sri Krishna, Satyaki, your son Yuyutsa only remain on the side of Pandavas.18 Akshouhini strong army perished in this 18 days long battle.” said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra. On hearing this, King Dhritarasthra, Gandhari and their daughters-in-law fainted. Dhritarashtra regained consciousness.
“Vidura! Have you heard what Sanjaya said. I lost all my sons. I have become an orphan. The only relative remains is yourself. Vidura! My mind is not under my control. I do not know what to do. Please send all the womenfolk to their respective places.” said Dhritarashtra.
Vidura made arrangements to dispatch all the ladies to their respective places.
“Vidura! all my sons are dead. Not even a single son of King Pandu is dead. It is amazing. Even after hearing about the death of all the one hundred sons of mine, my heart is still beating. As I was born blind, I could not enjoy the childhood activities of my sons. Now I am lamenting for the death of all my sons.
O my son Suyodhana! where are you? Your beloved mother, Gandhari, is calling you. Where have you gone leaving your old parents! While the sun is setting our lives, where have you gone? Where is the love and affection expressed by you upon us, so far? How you are lying on the hard surface unattended by servants, without the praises of Vandi and Magadhas. O my son Suyodhana! Have you forgotten those words spoken to by you: “O My father! I got Bhishma, Drona, Kripacharya, Karna, Asvathama on our side. They will kill Pandavas in no time. Besides, Bahlika, Somadatta, Sakuni, Bhoorisravasa, Salya and Sindu Kings are on our side. We all will vanquish Pandavas”. But to day, all of you have been killed by Pandavas .
No...... Arjuna is a great warrior. He killed Bhishma, keeping Sikhandi before him. Even Drona was killed by Arjuna. What about my son in law, Jayadhradha. Only with one single arrow, he was killed by Arjuna. Vidura! Is it not fate? O my son Suyodhana! you believed Karna blindly. He never killed at least one in Pandavas. Is it believable? The great warrior, Salya also could not kill any warrior, worth the name. O Suyodhana! you promised that you will kill all Pandavas with the help of your brothers. But all your brothers were killed by Pandavas.
Suyodhana! I am an unfortunate one. How can I acquire fortunes. Vidura! all my sons are dead. For whose sake, I have to remain in this world. How can I remain in this palace, bearing the arrow like stinkers uttered by Bhimasena, daily. Vidura! I wish to spend the rest of my life in forests. Kindly make arrangements.
O Sanjaya! I do not understand why and how and with whose support, Suyodhana continued the war, even after the death of Bhishma, Drona and Karna. Is it not foolishness on his part? Vidura told me earlier. “Your son is a fool. Leave him.” I did not heed his words. Now, I am repenting.
Sanjaya! tell me the details of war. After the death of Karna, who was the commander for the remaining army? How Kritavarma, Kripacharya and Asvathama escaped death? How Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandi, Panchala warriors, Chedi, Matsya, Prabhadraka warriors, sons of Droupadi and others on Pandava side were killed? How Arjuna and Srikrishna remained unhurt. Tell me in detail.” asked Dhritarashtra.
Sanjaya continued to say the 18th day war details.
“O King Dhritarashtra! On hearing about the death of Karna through Salya, Suyodhana cried aloud and retired to his place. Along with his close associates, he proceeded to an open place. He stopped lamenting for the death of Karna and Dussaasana and started to discus with the remaining warriors, about the future course of action.
At that time, Kripacharya gave his opinion thus: “O Suyodhana! I know war is the prime virtue of a Kshatriya. But I am a Brahmin. Against the Kshatriya dharma, I will speak few words. Bhishma, Drona and Karna are great warriors, endowed with divine power. Such powerful warriors were perished at the hands of Arjuna. While Arjuna is wild fire, Krishna is the wind. If both fire and wind join together, there will be a great disaster. Such is the present position. For the present, all our troups are tired. Whoever be the Commander, it would be very difficult to conquer Pandavas, with our troops, small in number.
At this juncture, it is highly desirable to have a mediation. Dont be angry upon me. Shed anger towards Pandavas. This war arose out of your unreasonable wrath and unnecessary rivalry with Pandavs. Had you shown some tact, the entire war would have been avoided. It is always desirable to have a war with enemy, when we are fully equipped, both in strength and arms. When we have become weak, it is not desirable to continue the war. The best solution is to have peace. This is one of the war principles.
Suyodhana! Why for you are continuing this war? To grab the kingdom of Pandavas and rule it and enjoy royal and sensual pleasures. Can you accomplish your desire with this small army. If we are alive only, we can enjoy royal and sensual plealsures. Therefore, Suyodhana, live and let others live. I know Dharmaja. He gis an embodiment of Dharma. He will certainly agree for restoration of peace. Sri Krishna never oppose this proposal. Whatever be the decision taken by Dharmaja and Krishna, it will be followed by the other Pandavas. If you agree, there will be a successful mediation and eternal peace. Therefore, proceed one step down and try for a mediation.” said Kripacharya.
Suyodhana patiently heard, with great attention, what has been told by Kripacharya. “Kripacharya! As you are my well wisher, you told me like this. But they are not acceptable for me.
I got the wicked dice game played and grabbed their kingdom and drove them to forests.
We insulted Droupadi in open assembly.
We tried to imprison Krishna who had come to mediate between us.
I have seen the deaths of Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Saindhava with my own eyes.
We all surrounded a young boy, Abhimanyu, and killed him mercilessly.
Today, I have seen Bhimasena, breaking the chest of Dussaasana and drinking his blood, like a beast.
Having seen all these things, simply because Bhimasena will kill me by striking on my thighs, how can I agree for a mediation. What others will think about me?
Besides that, I cannot enjoy royal plealsures got at the mercy of others. Instead, I will prefer to die in the war and enjoy heavenly pleasures.
Therefore, at this juncture, making peace with the enemy is impossible. Let us continue the war.” said Suyodhana.
Then Asvathama told Suyodhana thus: “Suyodhana! it is not safe for us to remain here. Pandavas are in jubilant mood.They may fell upon us during mid night and kill all of us, while we are in deep sleep. Such possibility is there. Hence, we will move to the banks of River Sarasvati and spend the rest of the night in open place.” suggested Asvthama .
Suyodhana was very happy with this suggestion. Suyodhana along with his friends, relatives, troops moved to the banks of river Sarasvati. All of them had a cold bath in the pure waters of River Sarasvti. They took their dinner. All were taking rest. Suyodhana and other warriors were discussing about the next Commander.
Suyodhana asked Asvathama to suggest a suitable warrior to command the forces. Asvathama said :
“Suyodhana! in this critical moment, Salya, King of Madra Kingdom, is the only person who can command our forces. He is well versed in warfare and is equipped with divine astras and Sastras. Instal him as the future Commander of Kourava forces.” said Asvathama.
All have unanimously agreed for that proposal. Suyodhana requested Salya to lead the Kourava forces. Salya accepted his request.
By sprinkling the holy waters of River Sarasvati, Salya, King of Madra, was installed as the Leader of Kourava Forces. Kourava army blew their conches and beat trumpets. They praised Salya about his heroic deeds.
Dharmaja learnt about it through his spies. He told Krishna thus: “Krishna! Have you heard that Salya was made the commander of Kourava forces. What would be our next move?” asked Dharmaja.
“King Dharmaja! Salya is a great warrior, endowed both with physical and divine power. He excels Bhishma, Drona and Karna in warfare. If Salya enters the battle field, you are the only person who can attack him and none else. Therefore, find a way to kill Salya tomorrow. Salya, being the brother of Maadri, is the maternal uncle of Nakula and Sahadeva. You may have respect and affection towards him. But he is now fighting on behalf of your enemy. Hence, dont be lenient towards him. Kill him mercilessly and acquire victory.” said Krishna.
“Krishna! I will do as you said. Triumph is our motto but not relationship” said Dharmaja.
Next day morning, the forces on both sides entered the battle field. While Salya was in the forefront, Kourava troops marched into the battle field. Pandava forces also entered the battle field, while all Pandavas were moving in the fore front.” said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra.
“Sanjaya! why you are dragging on the matter. Tell me how Salya and my son, Suyodhana, were killed.Dont waste time.” said Dhritarashtra.
Sanjaya smiled and said: “O King Dhritarashtra! are you still in a position to hear such ghastly news. Let me tell in detail. Any how, at the end, you have to hear about their deaths. Dont be in hurry.” Sanjaya continued to say.
“Your son, Suyodhana, entered the battle field with a fond of hope that atleast on the 18th day of war, he will kill all Pandavas and grab the entire Kuru kingdom. Salya arrayed his troops into Sarvatobhadra Vyooha. Salya, accompanied by the sons of Karna, stood at the main entrance of the vyooha. On his right side, Kripacharya stood. On his left side, Kritavarma along with Trigarta warriors stood. On the backside, Asvathama, accompanied by the kings of Kambhoja stood. In the middle, Suyodhana stood along with his elephant forces.
Pandavas arrayed their troops into Trimukha Vyooha (Vyooha with three faces). Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandi and Satyaki stood at the entrance of each face. Bhimasena and Arjuna stood on either side of Dharmaja.”
Meanwhile Dhritarashtra intervened and asked Sanjaya: “Sanjaya! After the 17days war, what were the remaining forces on either side. Kindly tell.”asked Dhritarashtra.
Sajnaya explained thus: “ On our side, only 11,000 chariots, 10,700 elephants, 2,00,000 horses, three crores of foot soldiers remained. On the side of Pandavas, there were 6,000 chariots, 3000 elephants, one lakh horses and one crore foot soldiers .” said Sanjaya.
Next day, Sun rose as usual. In the great battle of Kurukshetra, the last day battle started. Sounds of Blowing of conches, beating of trumpets and drums on both sides rose to the sky. Both forces attacked each other. The battle was fierce from the beginning.
Chariots were broken. Dead bodies of Horses and elephants were formed into huge heaps. The foot soldiers were rolling on the ground, with broken hands and legs. Blood was flowing into canals. Still both sides were fighting with great vigour and valour.

Chitrasena, grand son of Karna, broke the bow of Nakula and planted three most sharp arrows on the forehead of Nakula. Chitrasena cut the flag and killed the chrioteer of Nakula. Nakula took his long sword and sheild and rushed towards the chariot of Chitrasena. Nakula jumped upon the chariot of Chitrasena and cut the head of Chitrasena with his sword.
Beholding the death of Chitrasena, his brothers, Satyasena and Sushena attacked Nakula. Nakula boarded another chriot. Satyasena and Sushena hurled long spears towards Nakula. Nakula killed the horses of their chariots. Satyasena boarded another chariot. He broke the bow of Nakula. Nakula picked up another bow and cut the flag of Sushena and also his bow. Both Sushena and Satyasena killed the charioteer of Nakula and cut his bow. Nakula hurled a weapon, Sakti, towards Satyasena. Satyasena’s head was cut.
Beholding this, Sushena poured arrowy showers on Nakula. Nakula mounted the chariot of Srutasoma, son of Bhimasena. Nakula picked upo another bow and showered arrows on Sushena With an arrow in the shape of crescent moon, Nakula cut the head of Sushena. The troops of Suyodhana fled away.
Salya, roaring like a lion, arrived there and rallied Kourava troops by provoking them for war. Kourava troops attacked Pandava troops. Bhimasena, Satyaki, Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandi, Upa Pandavas, Nakula and Sahadeva were standing like a wall to protect Dharmaja. Salya was fighting with them.
Meanwhile, Panchala Warriors and Prabhadraka warriors surrounded Salya. Salya incessantly poured arrowy showers upon them and sent all of them to the abode of Yama.
Dharmaja attacked Salya. Salya with one Naracha arrow, shot Dharmaja, breaking his armour. Dharmaja was severely wounded. Beholding this, Bhimasena shot 7 arrows, Sahadeva 5 arrows, Nakula 9 arrows, Upa Pandavas numerous arrows, upon Salya. Meanwhile, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Sakuni and his son Ulooka arrived there to help Salya.
Salya killed the steeds of Bhimasena. Bhimasena took his mace, got down the chariot and was massacring the Kourava troops. Sahadeva incessantly poured arrowy showers upn Salya. Salya killed the steeds of Sahadeva.
Rukmangada son of Salya attacked Sahadeva. Sahadeva, armed with a knife, got down from his chariot and rushed towards Rukmangada. Sahadeva jumped into his chariot and cut his head with the knife. Beholding the death of his own son, Salya could not control his wrath. He was massacring the Pandava troops. Salya shot most cruel shafts upon Dharmaja.
Bhimasena, armed with his huge mace, jumped out of his chariot and killed the horses of Salya. Salya hurled a Tomara upon Bhimasena. That Tomara weapon pierced into the chest of Bhimasena. Bhimasena pulled out that Tomara from his chest and beat the charioteer of Salya with that Tomara. With that blow, the charioteer of Salya died. Salya took his Mudgara and jumped down his chariot.
Both Bhimasena Salya were engaged in a dual fight. The troops on both sides suspended the war for a while and witnessed their dual fight. Bhimasena and Salya were fighting like two elephants. There was a profuse bleeding from their bodies. At one time both of them fell down and fainted. Kripacharya bodily carried away Salya on his chariot. Bhimasena regained consciousness and roared like a lion. He was searching for Salya.
Pandava troops under the leadership of Chekitana arrived there to help Bhimasena. Suyodhana hurled a sharp edged spear against Chekitana. Chekitana’s head was cut. Meanwhile, Salya regained consciousness and arrived there. Salya attacked Dharmaja; Suyodhana attacked Dhrishtadyumna; Asvathama attacked Arjuna. Trigarta troops arrived there to help Asvathama.
Salya was shooting most powerful arrows upon Dharmaja. Dharmaja pierced 14 sharp edged arrows into the body of Salya. In return, Salya pierced one most powerful arrow into the chest of Dharmaja. Dharmaja killed the Chakra Rakshaka of Salya and killed his charioteer with nine arrows.
Satyaki and Bhimasena were showering arrows upon Salya. Meanwhile Nakula and Sahadeva attacked Salya. Salya shot numerous arrows into the bodies of Nakula and Sahadeva. Salya cut those arrows and in retaliation shot numerous arrows against Bhimasena, Nakula, Sahadeva and Satyaki. Sahadeva shot most cruel arrows against his maternal uncle, Salya.
Bhimasena, Satyaki, Dharmaja surrounded Salya and covered him with arrows. There was a profuse bleeding from the body of Salya. But the vigour of Salya was not diminished. Salya cut the bow of Dharmaja. Dharmaja took another bow and killed the horses and charioteer of Salya. Enraged with great wrath, Salya shot numerous arrows against Dharmaja. Dharmaja fainted. Satyaki intervened and attacked Salya. Salya cut the bow of Satyaki. Salya shot each three arrows upon Nakula, Bhimasena and Sahadeva.
Meanwhile, Dharmaja regained consciousness. He beat Salya with a mudgara. At the same time, Bhima hurled one spear, Nakula hurled a weapon called Sakti, Sahadeva hurled one huge mace against Salya at a time. With great wrath, Salya hit all those weapons with his powerful arrows. All of them lost consciousness. All others thought that they are dead.
But Nakula and Satyaki regained consciousness and again fought with Salya. Meanwhile, Dharmaja killed the other Chakra Raksha of Salya. Salya was fighting with Dharmaja, without Chakra Rakshakas. Again Salya injured all of them severely.
Beholding this, Dharmaja got disressed. “Srikrishna spoke the truth. Even Bhimasena could not resist the irresistible Salya. I have to kill Salya.” thought Dharmaja. Dharmaja gathered all his troops at one place. Meanwhile, Salya shrouded Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva, Satyaki, Dhrishtadyumna and Dharmaja with showers of arrows.
At another front, under the leadership of Asvathama, Samsaptakas were fighting with Arjuna. Arjuna was enraged with great wrath. Arjuna was massacring Samsaptaka troops by killing their horses, cutting their flags, breaking their bows and smashing their armours. In this manner, Arjuna killed 2,000 samsaptakas.
Beholding this, Asvathama attacked Arjuna. Asvathama shot 12 arrows against Arjuna and 10 arrows against Krishna. Arjuna thought for a while. Arjuna saluted Asvathama in mind, with great respect, because he is a brahmin and the son of his preceptor, Drona. Then Arjuna killed the horses tied to the chariot of Asvathama and also his charioteer. Asvathama hurled one Musalam and Parigha against Arjuna. Arjuna smashed them into small fragments. Arjuna shot most powerful arrows piercing into the body of Asvathama. Beholding this, Samsaptakas attacked Arjuna.
Meanwhile, a Panchala King called Suradha, attacked Asvathama. With only one sharp arrow, Asvathama cut the head of Suradha. Again he attacked Arjuna. Suyodhana attacked Dhrishtadyumna and shot five sharp shafts against him. In retaliation, Dhrishtadyumna shot 70 powerful arrows against Suyodhana.
The remaining brothers of Suyodhana arrived there to help his brother, Suyodhana. Dhrishtadyumna, with great wrath, shot most powerful arrows against the brothers of Suyodhana. Sikhandi and Prabhadrakas attacked Kripacharya and Kritavarma. Salya attacked Dharmaja, Bhimasena, Nakula and Sahadeva. Nakula shot ten arrows aiming at the chest of Salya. Salya broke the bow of Nakula. Nakula picked up another bow and attacked Salya. Suyodhana, along with his troops, arrived there to help Salya.
Krishna and Arjuna gathered all the Pandava troops at one place. Arjuna attacked Kripacharya and Kritavarma; Sahadeva attacked Sakuni; UpaPandavas attacked the other kings fighting on behalf of Suyodhana; Sikhandi attacked Asvathama; Bhimasena attacked Suyodhana. Dharmaja accompanied by Nakula attacked Salya. Salya, enraged with great wrath,was moving around the battle fieldll and was fighting with Pandavas.
It was noon at that time. Sun was shining in the middle of the sky, witnessing the last day war. Salya was fighting with Pandavas, resembling like the mid day sun. Unable to withhold the wrath of Salya, Pandava army was retreating . Beholding this, Dharmaja was waving his hand, encouraging his troops. Dharmaja called his brothers and said thus: “According to your vigour, valour and might, all of you have killed, Bhishma, Drona, Karna and others Kourava warriors. Today, I will kill Salya. I will tell you in detail. I will stand in the middle. On my right side Nakula and Satyaki; on my left side, Sahadeva and Dhrishtadyumna will stand protecting me from Salya. Arjuna will stand behind me. In the forefront, Bhimasena will stand. Look at that side. Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Sakuni and Asvathama are standing in front of Salya, protecting him.” said Dharmaja.
Dhrishtadyumna arrayed their troops as ordered by Dhjarmaja. Beholding this, Suyodhana also arrayed his troops, keeping Asvathama, Kripacharya Kritavarma and Sakuni as the protectors of Salya. Dharmaja attacked Salya. Suyodhana attacked Bhimasena and broke his bow and cut his flag. Bhimasena launched Sakti aiming at the chest of Suyodhana. Suyodhana fell down and lost consciousness. With another arrow, Bhimasena killed the charioteer of Suyodhana. The horses dragged away the chriot of Suyodhana.
Arjuna attacked Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma. The troops of Salya surrounded Dharmaja. Dharmaja was massacring the troops of Salya. Chariots were broken. Horses and elephants were killed.The entire battle was filled with the dead bodies of horses and elephants. Dharmaja and Salya blew their conches. Both were launching Astras and Sastras. Their bodies were drenched in blood. Salya broke the bow of Dharmaja. Dharmaja took another bow and broke the bow of Salya, and incessantly showered 300 arrows upon Salya and also killed the steeds. Dharmaja broke the flag of Salya. Salya sat down on his chriot.
Beholding this, Asvathama carried Salya to his chariot and drove away. Upon the fall of Salya, Dharmaja was roaring like a lion and was chasing Kourava Army. Meanwhile, Salya regained consciousness. He engaged another chariot and attacked Dharmaja. Dhrishtadyumna, Satyaki, Nakula and Sahadeva attacked Salya. Salya shot most sharp shafts against all of them.
Again he attacked Dharmaja. Dharmaja shot sharp edged arrows aiming at the chest of Salya. Suyodhana sent his troops to help Salya. Salya shot seven powerful arrows piercing into the body of Dharmaja. The troops of Suyodhana were fighting with Bhimasena. Dharmaja shot nine sharp arrows against Salya. In return Salya shot one powerful arrow aiming against the chest of Dharmaja. Dharmaja shot powerful arrows breaking the armour of Salya. Salya broke the bow of Dharmaja. Dharmaja took up another bow and filled the entire body of Salya with his arrows. Salya in return broke the armours of Dharmaja and Bhimasena.
Kripacharya killed the chrioteer and steeds of Dharmaja. Dharmaja was left without chariot. Dharmaja thought for himself: “Sri Krishna requested me to kill Salya. In the present circumstances, I may not accomplish his desire. What shall I do? Only Lord Siva should save me.”
With great devotion, Dharmaja prayed Lord siva: “O Lord Siva! You are omnipresent, omnipotent and all pervasive. You are the creator and destroyer. You are worshipped by all the regions. With great devotion I pray you to give more strength to accomplish the desire of Krishna.” prayed Dharmaja.
He slowly rose to his feet. Salya observed that Dharmaja has become weak and cannot fight vigorously.With renewed vigour, Salya shot most powerful arrows upon Dharmaja. Beholding this, Bhimasena intervened and cut the bow of Salya and killed his horses and charioteer. Salya is now deprived of his chariot. Salya armed with his sword and shield, rushed agaisnt Dharmaja. Dharmaja looked at Salya who was rushing against him by foot. Dharmaja gathered all his strength into his hands. “Sri Krishna desires to kill Salya. I have to kill Salya. I have to kill Salya” Dharmaja strongly intended to kill Salya.
There was a divine Astra, Sakti, in his pouch, given by Lord Siva. Dharmaja took that Astra and worshipped it. Dharmaja’s eyes were burning like fire balls. He was enraged with great wrath. He hurled that Sakti Astra, against Salya, who was rushing against him, with great speed. That Sakti was darted against Salya, sparkling flames. Sakti broke his armour, pierced into his chest and came out of his body and entered the earth. Salya fell down face downwards, like a banyan tree, struck by thunderbolt.
The last commander of Kourava army was killed by Dharmaja. Beholding the death of Salya, his brother was greatly enraged with wrath. He surrounded Dharmaja with his troops. Dharamaja hurled a sharp edged spear and cut his head. Looking at the deaths of Salya and his brother, Kourava troops fled away. Satyaki was chasing the Kourava troops.
Kritavarma attacked Satyaki. (Satyaki and Kritavarma are both Yadavas and are closely related to Sri Krishna.) Kritavarma broke the bow of Satyaki. Satyaki took another bow and killed his charioteer and the horses. Kripacharya picked up Kritavarma upon his chariot and drove away.
Unable to bear the prowess of Satyaki, Kourava army fled away. Pandava forces were chasing Kourava forces. Suyodhana alone remained in the battle field, to attack Pandava Army.
Dharmaja shot six powerful arrows against Kripacharya. Kripacharya also shot 16 arrows against Dharmaja. Suyodhana, mounted his elephant, and was moving in the battle field, rallying his troops, encouraging them to fight with Pandava troops. Emboldened with the encouraging words of Suyodhana, Kourava troops returned back to battle field to fight with Pandava army.
The relatives of Salya were trying to rush against Dharmaja.
But Suyuodhana advised them: “Dont be in haste. Please come behind me. We all will surround Dharmaja at a time” said Suyodhana. But they did not heed his words. They all rushed against Dharmaja. Meanwhile, Bhimasena, Nakula, Sahadeva, Upa Pandavas, Satyaki, Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandi surrounded them with their respective troops.
Beholding this, Sakuni told Suyodhana: “Suyodhana! Pandava warriors are massacring the relatives of Salya. Please rush to their rescue”.
“Uncle Sakuni! I told them not to proceed against Pandavas hastily. They did not heed my words. What can I do? Let them meet their fate” said Suyodhana.
“Suyodhana! it is not correct. They have all come to fight on your behalf. It is your duty to protect them while they are in danger” said Sakuni.
“Uncle Sakuni! I am going. I will save them.” so saying Suyodhana rushed towards Pandavas. But it was too late. All the relatives of Salya and their troops were massacred by Satyaki, Bhimasena, Nakula and Sahadeva and other Pandava warriors. None remained alive. Again the troops of Suyodhana fled away.
The remaining Kourava army was in great distress. They thought that the fall of Suyodhana is imminent. Suyodhana realised this situation. He got down his elephant and mounted a chariot. He was moving amidst his army, met each and every commander and was telling encouraging words to them.
“O Soldiers! come back. We will certainly win the battle and get back our Kingdom. Otherwise we will enjoy heavenly pleasures. Dont run away like cowards. Pandava army will chase you and kill you mercilessly. Instead of meeting such a heinous and miserable death, fight like heroes and die in the battle field and attain heavenly pleasures. Our troops out-number Pandava troops. We will certainly conquer. Triumph is ours. Come back.” shouted Suyodhana.
With these these heroic words, Kourava army returned back to battle field with renewed vigour. All of them surrounded Bhimasena. Bhimasena, armed with his huge mace, mercilessly massacred the Kourava troops. He alone killed 21,000 soldiers. From otherside, Arjuna was chasing the Kourava forces. The Kourava forces were caught in between Bhimasena and Arjuna.
Nakula, Sahadeva and Satyaki attacked Sakuni. King Salva, mounting his elephant, rushed against the Pandava Troops and was scattering them. Salva rushed against Dhrishtadyumna. Dhrishtadyumna broke the head of Salva’s elephant. Salva’s elephant ran away. Salva controlled his elephant and again rushed against Dhrishtadyumna. The elephant lifted the chariot of Dhrishtadyumna with its trunk. Sharply, Dhrushtadyumna took his mace and jumped down. Bhimasena, Sikhandi and Satyaki attacked Salva. Dhrishtadyumna struck the head of the elephant with his mace. Salva’selephant fell down. Satyaki cut the head of Salva with a powerful arrow.
Beholding the death of Salva, Kourava troops again fled away.Satyaki shot eight powerful safts against Kritavarma. Kritavarma broke the bow of Satyaki. Satyaki took another bow and killed the charioteer and horses of Kritavarma. Being deprived of his chariot, Kritavarma took a spear and rushed against Satyaki. Meanwhile, Kripacharya came to the rescue of Kritavarma.
“O King Dhritarashtra! by that time, all the kourava troops were scattered. Your son, Suyoodhana alone attacked Pandavas. Pandava troops surrounded Suyodhana. Suyodhana was fighting with them with renewed vigour and valour. Suyodhana shot 100 shafts against Dharmaja, 70 shafts against Bhimasena, and broke the bow of Sahadeva. Sahadeva took another bow and attacked Suyodhana. Meanwhile, Sakuni killed the steeds of Dharmaja. Sahadeva came to the rescue of Dharmaja.
Dharmaja covered Sakuni and his chariot, with his arrowy showers. Ulooka, son of Sakuni, was fighting with Nakula. Satyaki was fighting with Kritavarma. Suyodhana broke the bow of Dhrishtadyumna. Dhrishtadyumna took another bow and shot most powerful shafts against Suyodhana. The five sons of Droupadi attacked Suyodhana. Dharmaja shot three powerful arrows upon Kripacharya, and killed the horses of Kritavarma with four arrows. Asvathama came to the rescue of Kritavarma.
Suyodhana, with 700 chariot warriors, surrounded Dharmaja. Beholding this, Sikhandi broke all those chariots with his powerful arrows. Sakuni attacked Dharmaja. Dharmaja told Sahadeva to fight with Sakuni. There was a fiercest fight between Sakuni and Sahadeva. On both sides, 5,300 horses were killed. The entire battle field was filled with the dead bodies of horses.
Sakuni fled away along with the remaining 700 horses. Sakuni rushed to Suyodhana and said:
“O Suyodhana! first we have to destroy the elephant forces and cavalry of Pandavas. Then we can massacre the foot soldiers.” said Sakuni. On hearing the words of Sakuni, Suyodhana gathered his elephant force and cavalry.
Beholding this Arjuna told Krishna: “Krishna! during the 18 days war, most of the Kourava army was smashed. Still greediness of Suyodhana has not come an end. If peace had been made after the fall of Bhishma, everything would have been well. The foolish Duryodhana of weak understanding, did not make peace. After Bhishma had been struck and thrown down, I do not know the reason why the battle was proceeded. Really, Suyodhana is foolish. Even beholding the deaths of Drona, Jayadhradha, Bhagadatta and other great warriors, his mind did not change. Even after witnessing the deaths of his own men, Dussaasana, Karna and Salya, still he is continuing the war. how foolish he is, I do not understand.
Hence, it is evident that as long as he remained alive, he will never part with the kingdom. Therefore, the death of Suyodhana is certain.” said Arjuna.
“Arjna! when I proceeded to the Kourava Assembly for effecting peace, Vidura told me: “Krishna! Why you have come here. Suyodhana is foolish, wicked and greedy. He will never part with the portion of Kingdom. Therefore, war is certain.”
Arjuna! not only that. When Suyodhana was born, several bad omens appeared. Great sages and saints, gathered there, told Dhritarashtra that the entire Kshatriya order will be exterminated because of that child. Those words of those sages have become true.” said Krishna.
“Krishna! you are right. His foolishness, greediness and selfishness will never cease until he dies. Hence he is continuing the war even after the massacre of his entire army.” said Arjuna.
Krishna drove the chriot towards Suyodhana. Arjuna was masaacring the remaining troops of Suyodhana. Unable to withhold the wrath of Arjuna, Kourava troops fled away. Suyodhana, as usual, was encouraging them to fight.
On the otherside, Dhrishtadyuna and Sataaneeka were fighting with Kourava troops. Suyodhana hit Dhrishtadyumna with a powerful arrow on his chest. In retaliation, Dhrishtadhyumna killed the horses and the charioteer of Suyodhana. Suyodhana got down from the chariot and mounted a horse. Suyodhana gathered his elephant forces and attacked Arjuna.
While Arjuna was showering arrows on Suyodhana’s forces , Bhimasena, was massacring the elephants with his huge mace. Dharmaja, Nakula, Sahadeva arrived there. Suyodhana was caught in between these five Pandavas. As Suyodhana was not seen anywhere, Asvathama and Kripacharya thought that Suyodhana might have been killed by Pandavas. While searching for Suyodhana, they have come nearer the chariot of Sakuni. The rest of Kourava warriors were under the impression that it was sheer waste to search for Suyodhana, as it does not make any difference, whether Suyodhana is alive or dead.
All the Kourava troops surrounded Bhimasena. Enraged with great wrath, Bhimasena struck them with his mace and killed 10,000 foot soldiers, 700 elephants, 800 horses and broke 500 chariots. Rest of the Kourava army was not dare enough to even look at Bhimasena. O King Dhritarashtra! Bhimasena killed all your sons including Durmarshana, Shrutaanta, Jaitra, Bhooribala, Jayatsena,Sujaata, Durviha, Durvimocana, Ariha, Dushpradharsha, Srutaparva and Mahabaahu. The only one remainrd was Sudarsana. With small army, Suyodhana and Sudarsana remained.
Beholding this situation, Krishna told Arjuna thus: “Arjuna! The entire Kourava Army is destroyed. Suyodhana, Sudarsana along with small army remain. The fall of Suyodhana alone is left. Finish off that job and attain great name and fame.”
“Krishna! Still Sakuni is alive. He got his own army consisting of 200 chariots, 100 elephants, 500 horses and 2000 foot soldiers. Besides that, the great warriors Kripacharya, Asvathama and Kritavarma also are not seen. Ofcourse, I can kill all of them in no time.” said Arjuna.
Krishna drove the chariot towards Suyodhana. Sahadeva and Bhimasena were coming from other side to kill Suyodhana. Sakuni and Susarma attacked Arjuna, Sudarsana attacked Bhimasena and Suyodhana attacked Sahadeva. Suyodhana darted a spear upon Sahadeva. Sahadeva fell on the chariot and fainted. But he soon regained consciousness and again shot most sharp edged arrows against Suyodhana. Kourava soldiers covered Arjuna with Tomara weapons. Enraged with great wrath, Arjuna cut the head of Gandhara soldiers with sharp edged spears.
Meanwhile, Trigarta soldiers surrounded Arjuna. Arjuna cut the head of Satya Karma, one of the Samsaptakas. Arjuna also killed Satyeshu, another Samsaptaka. Arjuna darted a sharp spear aiming at the chest of Susarma, the only remaining Samsaptaka. That spear killed Susarma. Arjuna also killed all the sons of Samsaptaka, each with three arrows. The Samsaptaka army fled away.
O Dhritarashtra! Bhimasena killed your son, Sudarsana. Your elder son, Suyodhana, alone remained in the battle field. Sakuni attacked Sahadeva and pierced ten sharp arrows into his body. Sahadeva lost consciousness. Beholding this, Bhimasena massacred the Gandhara soldiers mercilessly. The remaing Kourava army fled away. Suyodhana again rallied them back, by speaking encouraging words. Meanwhile, Sahadeva regained consciousness and shot ten most sharp arrows upon Sakuni and cut his bow. Sakuni took another bow and showered arrows upon Sahadeva.
Ulooka, son of Sakuni, incessantly showered arrows upon Sahadeva and Bhimasena. Enraged with wrath, Sahadeva threw one spear and cut the head of Ulooka. Beholding the death of his son Ulooka, Sakuni, with great wrath, shot three sharp arrows against Sahadeva. Sahadeva cut them into pieces and again cut his bow. Sakuni hurled his sword, mace and spear upon Sahadeva. Sahadeva cut all of them in the middle.
Beholding this, Sakuni along his army fled away. Sahadeva chased Sakuni and accosted him.
“O King of Gandhara! Is it just on the part of a Warrior of Kshatriya Order to leave the battle field abruptly. Why cannot you show your skills, shown by you while playing the wicked dice game. Have you seen the result of that wicked dice game. Total disaster and mass massacre. Have you tasted the power of flames burning in our hearts since the day of dice game. The result is visible. Suyodhana lost all his kith and kin and standing alone in the battle field. In his presence, I will cut your head ”
So saying, Sahadeva killed the horses of Sakuni and cut his flag and bow. Sakuni launched most powerful Sakti on Sahadeva. Sahadeva cut that Sakti with his spear into pieces. Sahadeva took two sharp spears in both hands and hurled them with great speed towards Sakuni. Those two spears together cut the head of Sakuni. Sakuni’s head was severed from his body. Sakuni, King of Gandhara, was killed by Sahadeva.
Beholding this, Pandava army acclaimed Sahadeva. Trumpets were beaten and conches were blown. Krishna blew Panchajanya, and Arjuna blew Devadatta. Those sounds rose to the sky. All the Gandhara troops rebelled against Sahadeva. Arjna, Bhimasena and Sahadeva together massacred those troops.
Suyodhana looked around. None remained in the battle field except himself. All are dead on his side. Pandavas and their armies were acclaiming and enjoying their victory by beating trumpets and blowing conches. Suyodhana determined to leave the battle field, accepting his defeat.” said Sanjaya to King Dhritarashtra.
“Sanjaya! at that time, what was the position of troops on both sides.” asked Dhritarashtra.
“O King Dhritarashtra! except Suyodhana, the entire 11 Akshouhini Kourava Army was destroyed. On the side of Pandavas, 2000 chariots, 700 elephants, 500 horses and 10,000 soldiers remained.
Suyodhana, keeping his mace on his shoulder, left the battle field to an unknown place.” said Sanjaya.
With the departure of Suyodhana, Maha Bharata War, fought for 18 days, in Kurukshetra which was Dharmakshetra, was concluded.

MAHA BHARAT
SALYA PARVA
FIRST CHAPTER COMPLETED.
OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT.
MAHABHARAT
SALYA PARVA
SECOND CHAPTER.
In Naimisaranya, on the occasion of Satra Yaga, Sooti, the story teller, told Saint Sounaka and other great sages and saints, the story of Mahabharata, as told by Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya:
“O Sanjaya, After leaving the battle field with his mace, where has he gone. What happened to my son, Suyodhana.” Sanjaya told thus:
“O King Dhritarashtra! Suyodhana alone, without anybody accompanying him, left the battle field and proceeded towards north-east direction and arrived at a deep pond called Dvaipayana. He entered into the pond and stayed under the deep waters of the pond, by virtue of his Jalastambhana art. Suyodhana was leisurely repenting for not heeding the words of Vidura.
After Suyodhana fled away from the battle field, Bhima, Arjuna, Satyaki, Dhritashtadyumna massacred the remaining Kourava troops. Only three car warriors, Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma remained alive on our side.
While I was wandering in the battle, Satyaki caught me. Dhrishtadyuna asked Satyaki “Why you caught this unarmed who is incapable of doing any harm. Leave him”
“He is from our enemy side. None of our enemy should remain alive. I will kill him.” so saying he raised his sword to cut my head. At that juncture, Saint Veda Vyasa appeared there and shouted not to kill me. Satyaki saluted Vyasa. “O Satyaki! it is not proper to kill Sanjaya. He is unarmed and harmless. Leave him.” Satyaki released me. I fled away from that place.
Then I proceeded to Dvaipayana pond and met Suyodhana. On seeing me, Suyodhana was speechless. I told Suyodhana what had happened.
“Sanjaya! Is there anybody left alive on our side?” asked Suyodhana.
“Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma remained alive on our side.” I told Suyodhana.
“Suyodhana! I am so fortunate that I was not caught by Pandavas as hostage. I do not want to lead the rest of my life as war prisoner. Sanjaya! all Pandavas and their friends and relatives are in joyous mood. How can I bear that humiliation. You kindly tell my father about my fate.” so saying Suyodhana entered the pond and remained in the deep waters.
Meanwhile, Asvathama, Kritavarma and Kripacharya, while searching for Suyodhana, met Sanjaya. “O Sanjaya! are you alive. Is our king, Suyodhana, alive.” asked Asvathama eagerly.
I told them that Suyodhana was hiding in the deep waters of Dvaipayana pond. On hearing the defeat of Suyodhana, they were very much depressed.
“Sanjaya! Suyodhana does not know that we are alive. He is worrying about our welfare. It is a great tragedy that Emperor Suyodhana is hiding in a lake. We will meet him now” So saying, all of them proceeded to Dvaipayana lake.
On hearing that the war was over, the womenfolk of Kourava soldiers came out and were searching forthe dead bodies of their husbands, sons, brothers, lamenting for their death. Your son, Yuyutsa, was also present there. He made arrangements to send all the womenfolk back to Hastinapuram.
Meanwhile, Dharmaja along with Krishna and Arjuna arrived there. Dharmaja consoled Yuyutsa. Dharmaja told Yuyutsa that he can move all the women folk to Hastinapura. Yuyutsa, along with elderly men, escorted all the womenfolk to Hastinapuram.The entire battle field is now silent.
Pandavas, accompanied by Krishna and other relatives and friends and their troups went in search of Suyodhana and they all arrived at the Dvaipayana pond. Beholding them, Kritavarma, Kripacharya and Asvathama fled away from the pond and hid at a safe place. Not finding Suyodhana anywhere, Pandavas and their troops returned back to their respective tents.
After the depature of Pandavas, myself, and the three car warriors came back to the pond. We gave a signal to Suyodhana. Suyodhana came out of the waters. Asvathama told Suyodhana thus:
“Suyodhana! why are you hiding like a coward under the deep waters. Come on. Get up. March forward to fight with Pandavas. Kill Pandavas and get back your kingdom.Otherwise die in the battle field and get higher regions. Those are the ultimate solutions but not hiding like a coward.” said Asvathama.
“Asvathama! Not that I do not know about Kshatriya Dharma. For thepresent I am tired and my entire body is severely injured. My body is not under my control and it requires rest. I hope you are also tired. Take rest for this day. Tomorrow we will attack Pandavas.” said Suyodhana.
“Suyodhana! why are you doubting our prowess. I myself will massacre the entire pandava army with my sharp edged arrows and make you and your father feel happy.” said Asvathama.
Dharmaja and Bhimasena deputed some hunters, hunting in that forest, to search and inform about the whereabouts of Suyodhana, if they happen to see him. One of those hunters, came there, carrying the hunted animals. He saw Suyodhana talking to three car warriors. He immediately rushed to Bhimasena and informed him about Suyodhana. After rewarding the hunter suitably, Bhimasena approached Dharmaja and told him about Suyodhana, hiding in the deep waters of dvaipayana pond. Immediately, Dharmaja, accompanied by his brothers, Sri Krishna, Panchala and Yadava warriors and their troops proceeded to Dvaipayana pond.
Beholding the arrival of Pandavas, Asvathama alerted Suyodhana. “Suyodhana! Pandavas are coming here. They might have got information about your whereabouts. Please hide yourself in the pond. We will meet you later.” so saying, those three car warriors fled away. I also ran away and hid behind a bush and was watching them. I could clearly see what was happening at the pond.
Krishna observed the pond carefully and said: “Dharmaja! I am sure Suyodhana is hiding under the deep waters of this pond. Suyodhana knows how to remain in deep waters, without breathing and drenching. Suyodhana is well versed with such a wicked tricks. We have to make them to come out with such wicked ideas only. Provoke him with arrow like words to come out.” said Krishna.
Dharmaja with loud voice addressed Suyodhana:
“O Suyodhana! several kings were killed in the battle field for your sake. But you are hiding in this pond to save your life. Is it proper for a hero like Suyodhana to do like this? By hiding in a pond, can you escape death? Everybody praises you as a great hero. Is this your heroism? You were born in a famous Kshatriya clan. But you are afraid of your death. Are you disregarding your great name and fame and hiding in this pond for the sake of your life.. Everybody will laugh at you. You will neither get fame in this world nor go to higher regions after death
.You have lost your hundred brothers in the battle. But you are craving for your life. Are you a real hero? Dont forget Your heroism is greater than your life. Your muscle power, your vigour, your valour have all been burnt away. Relying upon Karna as also upon Sakuni, you have regarded yourself as immortal and failed to understand yourself. Now they are dead. Shed your cowardness, come out and fight. Raise your head high as a hero. If you are able to vanquish us, you will get back your entire kingdom, otherwise, you will go to higher regions, fit for heroes. Choose one of the above two. Dont take shelter under cowardness. If you are a real hero come out and fight with us” said Dharmaja.
Suyodhana did not come out of the pond but gave reply from inside the pond. “Dharmaja! fear of death is common to all humans. Now I am deprived of my chariot, charioteer, army and bow and arrows. Besides that, I am seriously injured. I need rest. I cannot fight now. After taking some rest, I will fight with you and defeat all of you. You are also tired after the 18days war. You also take some rest and come back.” said Suyodhana.
“Suyodhana! We have taken sufficient rest. You are also resting yourself in this pond. Therefore, come out and fight with us.” said Dharmaja.
“Dharmaja! for whose sake I fought with you, those relatives, friends, brothers are not with me now. My entire army is perished. For whose sake I have to fight now. How can I enjoy this kingdom without Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Saindhava and Dussaasana. I feel happy if I rule this kingdom along with my brothers, relatives and friends but not alone, without anybody. Your brothers, friends and relatives are alive. You rule youself the entire kindgom. I will spend rest of my life in forests.
O Dharmaja! I am defeated. I am alone. I have no pride, aggrandizement and vanity. I am peaceful. You rule this earth, sitting on the heaps of ashes, without horses, elephants, and army.” said Suyodhana.
“Suyodhana! It is amazing to hear such soft words from your mouth. Even after the death of Bhishma, Drona and Karna, you have continued the war, with an evil intention of becoming the King and Emperor of the entire kingdom. Why unnecessary conversation. Come out of the pond and fight with us. It is not good on our part to rule this earth while our enemy is alive. First we will kill you and then rule the earth. If you are capable of vanquishing us, you can rule this earth.

Suyodhana! Are you giving this earth to us as a charity. Am I a begger to receive your charity.
Suyodhana! When we begged for five villages for our stay, remember what you have said. Had you acceded to our request on that day, you would have averted this mass massacre. When Krishna came down to Hastinapura to effect mediation between us, what you said? You told him that You donot like to part with the earth measuring a needle point. Today, how can you give the entire earth as charity. You are saying these words because you cannot get back your kingdom by any means.
Suyodhana! if at all you have any kingdom of your own, you can give it as charity. Now you are deprived of everything. How can you give charities. Even if you give charity, I am not ready to receive it. First I will kill you and acquire the kingdom as of right. Come out of the pond and fight with us. Your life is at our hands.
Suyodhana! you tried to burn us alive in a lac house. You administered poison and thrown us into deep waters. But we are alive by God’s grace. You cannot play those tricks today. You have to fight with us. Therefore, come out of waters and fight.” Dharmaja provoked Suyodhana, with arrow like words.
But Suyodhana, steadily replied: “Dharmaja! you are five, I am alone. You are equipped with sufficient army forces. But I am deprived of all my army forces. You are having powerful Astras and Sastras. I am not having even a bow and arrow. You are all in a rejuvenated joyful mood. I am tired. Therefore, it is not just on your part to fight with me all at a time. You can fight with me one by one. I will kill all of you along with your friends and relatives. If you are aggreable for this , I will come out of this pond.
Look! I am not speaking like this, not that I am afraid of Arjuna and Krishna. I am capable of killing all of you along with your friends and relatives, in a moment. I will kill all of you and discharge my debt to Bhishma, Drona, Karna and other great warriors who fought for my sake” said Suyodhana.
On hearing those words, Dharmaja said: “I admire your courage Suyodhana. You are right in saying that you can slay all of us single handedly. But I am not such an unjust and unscrupulous fellow. You can take all kinds of Astras, Sastras, chariot, charioteer, as you like. You can choose any one amongst us. He will fight with you, according to war rules.” If you are able to kill him, you can get back your entire kingdom.”said Dharmaja.
“I will agree for your proposal but on one condition. We have fought with each other all these days with bows and arrows. To day we will fight in a different manner. Myself and one amongst you will fight on the ground, with maces. I will kill you and your brothers with my huge mace in no time. Are you agreeable?” asked Suyodhana.
Dharmaja was thinking about the pros and cons. Taking the silence of Dharmaja as approval, Suyodhana came out of the pond, roaring like a lion. Pandavas heckled Suyodhana. Suyodhana was enraged with great wrath.
“Dont laugh! After all, you can laugh till my mighty mace breaks your heads into thousand pieces.” shouted Suyodhana.
But Suyodhana was entertaining a doubt in his mind that all pandavas and Panchalas may attack him all at a time and kill him.
“Dharmaja! remember, according to our agreement, you have to fight with me one by one, because you are large in number and I am alone and tired.” said Suyodhana.
Dharmaja smiled and said: “Suyodhana! Have you so soon forgotten the fate of Abhimanyu. All of you surrounded him and killed him mercilessly. We will follow suit.” said Dharmaja. Suyodhana kept mum.
“Suyodhana! dont fear. Just I pointed your wretched and unworthy action. But I will never violate war principles. You can have your armour and be ready for fight. You can choose any one amongst us. He will fight with you. In case you kill him, the entire Kuru kingdom will be yours. You can rule as you like. In case you are killed by him, you will attain higher regions. This is my promise. I can give you anything and everything, except your life. Because, we are brothers.” said Dharmaja.
“Dharmaja! I know what you are. We are brothers. Why should you bear grudge against me?” said Suyodhana.
Suyodhana picked an armour made of Gold, one strong helmet and other armours for hands and legs.
“O Dharmaja! any one of you, either Sahadeva, Nakula, Arjuna, Bhimasena or youself; may come one by one. I will kill you one by one. Even Lord Siva is not dare enough to stand before me if am in the battle field with the mace in my hand. Where can you go? Today you are destined to die in my hands” said Suyodhana inviting Pandavas for dual fight.
On hearing the self boasting words of Suyodhana, Sri Krishna told Dharmaja: “ Dharmaja! I do not think that you are such a fool and stupid. Is it a dice game with Sakuni, to part with the hard earned Kingdom if Suyodhana kills any one of you. If Suyodhana chooses any one of you except Bhimasena, Suyodhana will kill him in a moment. You have to give away the entire kingdom to Suyodhana and depart to forests. At last, you made this great war as a dice game. Is it for the sake of betting, you have sacrificed Akshouhinis of army in the battle field. Have you forgotten that you lost one dice game and went in exile for 13 years. Now you are committing the same mistake. Dharmaja! I do not agree for this. I do not also agree to send any one of you to fight with Suyodhana. Suyodhana is so tactful and skilful in mace fight. Bhimasena’s muscle power is of no use before Suyodhana’s fighting skills. You can do as you like. But be careful.” said Krishna.
On hearing these words of Krishna, Bhimasena said: “O Krishna! As long as your blessings and my brother’s best wishes are there, I can conquer the 14 regions in a moment. After all, Suyodhana cannot stand before me even for a moment. To day I will kill Suyodhana and make you both happy.” said Bhimasena.
Krishna patted the back of Bhimasena: “O Bhimasena! I never belittled you. I know you have killed Baka, Hidimbaasura, and Kichaka and Jarasandha. Can any ordinary man do these heroic deeds? Suyodhana is no match to you. Dont consider my words seriously. Bhimasena! when you were breaking the chest of Dussaasana and drinking his blood, where was this Suyodhana? Suyodhana would have been killed soon after he comes out of the pond. But Dharmaja made unnecessary promises. I condemned those promises.You have discharged one of your vows made in the open assembly when Dussaasana dragged Droupadi by holding her tuft. The next promise, Killing Suyodhana by breaking his thighs, remains. Bhimasena, now, raise to the occasion; discharge your promise; kill Suyodhana and enthrone Dharmaja as Emperor of Kuru Kingdom. I am by your side.” said Krishna.
On hearing the encouraging words of Krishna, Bhimasena was very happy.
“Bhimasena! be careful. Suyodhana is well versed in mace fight by undergoing rigorous practice throughout his life. He knows many skills in mace fight. Be careful.” cautioned Krishna.
Satyaki and others also priased Bhimasena about his prowess, vigour and valour. Looking at Duryodhana, Bhiamsena said:
“O Dharmaja! hear me. I am very angry against this wretch who destroyed our Kuru clan completely. I will take away his life and enthrone you as Emperor of Kuru Kingdom.
Suyodhana! You tried to burn us alive in wax house. You defeated us in the wicked dice game and consigned us to forests and exile. You insulted Droupadi in open assembly. Today you will reap the consequences for all your misdeeds. That is why you are before me today. Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Salya sacrificed their lives for your sake. Several of your friends, relavies, their sons and brothers shed their lives in the unwanted battle. Sakuni who is the root cause for all this disaster and mass massacre was killed in your very presence. Now you are before me for being killed by me. Hence stop talking and start fighting.” said Bhimasena.
“O Bhimasena! even the Indra is afraid of my mace. After all you are nothing before me. Come on, fight and die. I will be the King and Emperor of the entire Universe” said Suyodhana.
At the time of commencement of Maha Bharata War, Balarama, brother of Sri Krishna and Satyaki, unwilling to take part in the battle, on either side, went on pilgrimage to the banks of River Sarasvati. On completion of his pilglrimage, Balarama arrived at Kurushetra. At that time, Saint Narada arrived there and met Balarama. Narada informed Balarama:
“O Balarama! During these 18 days war, 11 Akshouhini kourava army was perished except three warriors, Asvathama, Kritavarma and Kripacharya. Suyodhana left the battle field and took shelter in the deep waters of Dvaipayana pond. Dharmaja with his arrow like words provoked Suyodhana to come out of the pond. Suyodhana came out of the pond. Both Suyodhana and Bhimasena were ready to fight. As both of them are your beloved students, you can go and witness that fight” said Saint Narada.
Immediately Balarama proceeded to the place where the dual mace fight was going on. Beholding Balarama, Krishna and Dharmaja welcomed him, saluted him, recieved him with due honors and offered him a suitable seat. Sri Krishna and Satyaki were standing on either side of Balarama. Dharmaja and others enquired him about his welfare and about his pilgrimage.
“Dharmaja! Krishna! you know that I was not willing to participate in the war, on either side. Hence I went on pilgrimage. On hearing about the defeat of Kouravas and about the dual fight between my students, Suyodhana and Bhimasena, I have come here to witness the fight.” said Balarama.
Bhimasena and Suyodhana, armed with their mighty maces, bowed before Balarama. Balarama blessed both of them. Dharmaja humbly explained to Balarama, the circumstances under which this dual fight was arranged between Suyodhana and Bhimasena and requested Balarama to witness the fight. He also requested Balarama to give permission to commence the fight. Balarama patiently heard what Dharamaja said and nodded his head, as a sign of acceptance.
O King Dhritarashtra, at that time, I was hiding in the nearby bushes and witnessed the dual fight between Suyodhana and Bhimasena.
“Dharmaja! Samantaka panchakam is nearer to this place. If any body dies in that place, he will attain higher regions. Therefore, this fight may be conducted at Samantaka Panchakah” requested Suyodhana.
Balarama supported his request. All of them proceeded to Samantaka Panchakam. Sri Krishna, Balarama, Pandavas, Panchalas, Yadavas, along with their respective forces assembled there. In the middle, the arena for fight was arranged. In the arena, both Bhimasena and Suyodhana were standing, ready for fight.
Bhimasena, enraged with great wrath said: “Brother Dharmaja! this wretch, Suyodhana, commited uncountable sins. His life has come to an end today. I will break his thighs and discharge my promise.” shouted Bhimasena.
“Yes. Bhimasena, your life has also come to an end to day. Even Lord Siva cannot stand before me in a mace fight. After all you are nothing before. I will kill you and take back the entire kingdom.”said Suyodhana. In this manner, Suyodhana and Bhimasena were shouting and abusing each other.
The bell rang. The fight began. Suyodhana and Bhimasena started to fight with each other. Both of them were fighting with great excitement. Balarama, who was an expert in mace fight, was observing their fight anxiously. Both were threatening each other. Taking rounds. Beating each other with maces. Earth was trembling with their jumping. Their crowns fell down. Ornaments were cut into pieces.They were fighting like huge elephants. In one moment, one was gaining upperhand; next moment he was losing the grip. One was warding off the blows of another. With the blows of maces, there was profuse bleeding from their bodies. None were able to assess their abilities and winning chances. Beholding their fight, Arjuna asked Krishna as to who will win the fight.
“Arjuna! Bhimasena and Suyodhana were the students of same preceptor. But there is one difference. Bhimasena got more muscle power but is lacking in tact and skill. Suyodhana is equipped both with muscle power as well as tacts and skills that too wicked skills.Therefore, chances to win are better for Suyodhana than Bhimasena. It is very difficult for Bhimasena to win in righteous way. While the opponent is adopting wicked skills in fight, we should not adopt righteous skills.When the opponent is wicked, we should also be wicked and unscrupulous. Then only we can win.
Remember the promise made by Bhimasena in the open assembly. He took a vow that he will kill Suyodhana by breaking his thighs. In fact, hitting below the waist is not permissible and against the principles in mace fight. We can substantiate ourselves by saying that in order to fulful his vow, Bhimasena hit below the waist. Therefore, by virtue of righteous fight, we will never win. Bhimasena should hit Suyodhana below the waist, even against war principles.
Moreover, Dharmaja, with his unnecessary foolish talk, created some problems. You all fought together during these 18 days and killed Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Salya and other great heroes and got a gloriorious victory. To day Dharmaja promised that if Suyodhana kills any one of you, he will getback his entire kingdom and all the riches. Therefore, Bhimasena should win now at any cost. Arjuna! I never thought that Dharmaja will talk in such a follish manner. Instead of killing Suyodhana by surrounding him, Dharmaja offered him a fair deal. Suyodhana’s life ambition is to kill Bhimasena. Hence he will never lose this chance. Without any hesitation and loss of time, it is better to kill Suyodhana in an unscrupulous manner than in a righteous fight. Otherwise, Suyodhana will become the King and Emperor of this entiere Universe and you will lead the rest of your life as his slaves..” Krishna said without any hesitation.
Arjuna could understand what Krishna said. Arjuna was keenly looking at Bhimasena. When Bhimasena looked at Arjuna, Arjuna gave a signal to hit Suyodhana below his waist. Krishna smiled at Bhimasena as a sign of acceptance. Bhimasena grasped what they meant. He was waiting for an opportunity to hit Suyodhana below his waist.
First Bhimasena hit Suyodhana with his mace on his elbow. Suyodhana escaped that blow and beat Bhimasena with his mace. Bhimasena pretended to have fainted. In a joyous mood, Suyodhana was jumping in air and making rounds in air. Suyodhana was about to deliver a blow on his head with his mace. Suyodhana’s waist was within the reach of Bhimasena. Without hesitation, Bhimasena hit Suyodhana with his mace below his waist.
Suyodhana’s thighs were broken. He fell down like a huge tree cut at the root. There was an uproar. Pandavas and his friends and relatives acclaimed Bhimasena for defeating Suyodhana. Bhimasena was looking at Suyodhana with great wrath.
“ O Suyodhana! Enjoy the fruits of your mis deeds for dragging Droupadi to the open assembly.” so saying Bhimasena kicked the head of Suyodhana with his left leg.
“O Suyodhana! this is dual fight, not a wicked dice game, to play fraud and win. You called us as slaves and beasts. You are the beast. You are my slave” shouted Bhimasena.
Bhimasena addressed all his friends and relatives: “Krishna! Arjuna! O Panchala Kings! Look at this wretch. Loot at this unscrupulous fellow who is reaping the consequences for dragging Droupadi to open assembly and insulting her. He is burning in the flames of her anger. This wretch called us as slaves and useless. I massacred all his troups. Now I killed him. I do not care whether I go to heaven or hell” so saying Bhimasena pressed his neck with his right foot and again kicked his face with his left leg.
Dhrmaja was enraged with great wrath, looking at these developments.
“Bhimasena! stop. Are you mad? Why are you shouting and kicking Suyodhana! It is unjust and improper and unbearable. I feel ashamed of it. Inspite of losing all his friends and relatives in war, Suyodhana, having regard to my words, participated in this dual fight. What you have done? You kicked his head. Will anybody appreciate your deeds? So far, you are famous for your virtuous deeds. Today, you acted differently. Your head is reeling with great pride. What you have gained by these deeds, except defaming yourself in the eyes of others.” said Dharmaja.
Dharmaja approached Suyodhana and consoled him: “Suyodhana!Due to bad time, we developed enmity between ourselves. we hated each other. We lost everything. Since your childhood, your greediness and unscrupulousness made you to act covetously. You landed in great troubles. At last you are lying here unattended, with broken legs. Because of you, all my relatives and friieds perished in this war. Kuru clan is completely destroyed. All the daughters-in-law of my paternal uncle have become widows. They will naturally blame me.What can I do?” said Dharmaja.
Beholding Bhimasena hitting Suyodhana below his waist, against the rules, Balarama grew angry. Balarama adressed all the Kings assembled there:
“Have you seen the blatant violation in mace fight committed by Bhimasena. Have you ever seen or heard about this? Have you not known that hitting below waist in mace fight is against the rules? Now, in the presence of all, Bhimasena hit Suyodhana with his mace and pulled him down. It is unjust and improper. I cannot tolerate this.” so saying Balarama rushed against Bhimasena.
Sri Krishna hurriedly went near his brother, Balarama and stopped him by holding both his hands
“Brother Balarama! Helping friends and wishing the welfare of relatives is human nature. There is nothing abnormal. Pandavas are our friends and relatives. Arjuna is our sister’s husband. When they are suffering a lot at the hands of some unscrupulous wretches, is it not our duty to help them and wish their welfare and prosperity. Besides that, making promises is the order in Kshatriya community. Bhimasena took a vow to kill Suyodhana by hitting on his thighs, as Suyodhana shamelessly offered his lap for Droupdi to sit. Bhimasena tried his level best to discharge his vow. It is not unjust and improper.
Brother Balarama! on a previous occasion, when Suyodhana heckled a great saint, Maitreya, he cursed Suyodhana that he will be killed by Bhimasena by breaking his thighs. Now it is executed. Bhimasena is not at all at fault. Kindly control your unnecessary anger.” requested Sri Krishna.
“Krishna! Dharma, Ardha, Kama and Moksha are connected to each other. One should not be violated for accomplishing another. One who violates Dharma for accomplishing Ardha and Kama, should be blamed. You quoted the curse of Maitreya and Bhima’s vow. But while discharging those promises, is it just and proper to violate Dharma. Bhima violated the war principles. It is truth which cannot be rebutted.” said Balarama.
“Brother Balarama! You are acclaimed by one and all as a man of unblemished character and most virtuous. Kindly shed your unnecessary anger. Again I am telling that Bhimasena hit Suyodhana below waist only to discharge his vow. How it is unjust and improper?
One more thing. Bhimasena did not hit Suyodhana while he was standing. Suyodhana jumped into air only to deliver a heavy blow with his mace on the head of Bhimasena. Only to ward off that blow, as an act of self defence, Bhimasena hurled his mace which hit Suyodhana below his waist. How can we blame Bhimasena? Had that heavy bow been delivered on the head of Bhimasena, he woud have died instantaneously. While acting in self defence, is it possible to think about Dharma and Adharma.
Bhimasena took a vow to kill Suyodhana by breaking his thighs and he waited for 13 long years to discharge his vow. Now the time has come and he discharged his vow. Suyodhana knows pretty well about this vow. Suyodhana would have taken proper care to protect his thighs from Bhimasena.
Brother Balarama, you know pretty well about the enmity between Suyodhana and Bhiamsena since their childhood. Suyodhana tried to kill Bhimasena with wicked and cunning plans. While Suyodhana was acting wickedly and cunningly to kill Bhimasena, Bhimasena also tried to kill Suyodhana in the same manner.
Besides all, you know pretty well how our sister’s son Abhimanyu was killed unscrupulously, surrounded by several warriors at a time. This is nothing but retaliation by Bhimasena upon Suyodhana for all his mis deeds. Adharma is attacked by Adharma.” said Krishna vividly.
“Krishna, you cannot prove Adharma as Dharma by your argumentative skills. You can acclaim Bhimasena, who attained an unscrupulous victory, as a hero. But Suyodhana, who laid his life for truth and virtue,will attain higher regions after his death.” so saying Balarama left that place for Dwaraka.
Krishna looked at Dharmaja who was very much distressed. “Dharmaja! Are you feeling sorry for killing Suyodhana. He is a wretch, destroyer of his own clan and a sinner. He should be killed. He reaped the consequences for his own misdeeds. Bhimasena discharged his vow. Why should you feel sorry for this just act.”said Krishna.
“Krishna! I am not at all feeling for his death. Bhimasena discharged his promise by breaking his thighs. But why should he kick his head with his left leg. Is it just and proper? Let it be. Let us forget about it” said Dharmaja.
“Dhrmaja! Now the last enemy, Suyodhana, also is defeated. Now you are the King andEmperor of this Kuru Kingdom. Rule it to the praise of one and all.” said Krishna.
“Bhimasena! I am very thankful to you for killing Suyodhana with your muscle power and skills in mace fight and also with the help of Sri Krishna.” said Dharmaja.
“Sanjaya, what was the reaction of Pandavas and Panchalas, on the defeat of my son Suyodhana.”asked Dhritarasthra. Sanjaya said thus:
“O King Dhritarashtra! After the fall of Suyodhana, Pandavas and Panchalas’s hearts were filled with joy. They blew conches. Drums were beaten. Everybody was acclaiming Bhimasena for his victory. But some murmered that Bhimasena killed Suyodhana brutally, without following the rules of mace fight. Krishna could read their mind.
“ Great Warriors of Pandava and Panchalas! You should not entertain any doubt in mind that Suyodhana was beaten by Bhimasena unscrupulously. Suyodhana is a wretch. He deserves this. Suyodhana dragged Droupadi to open assembly and insulted her. But Dharmaja never kept that it in mind. He just requested for a share in the kingdom. Even that request also was turned down by Suyodhana. When Suyodhana acted unscrupulously, we also should kill him in an unscrupulous manner, not otherwise. Inspite of the advices of Vidura, Suyodhana chose war and was responsible for this mass massacre. Therefore, you should not at all discuss about his fall, whether it is just or unjust. Please retire to your respective places of stay and enjoy the victory.” said Sri Krishna.
Having heard the words of Sri Krishna, the heart of Suyodhana was burnt with rage. “O Krishna! Your father was a slave of Kamsa. You are the son of a slave. You do not know your own wrongs. You are unnecessarily talking. You provoked Arjuna to give a signal to Bhima to beat me under my waist. Accordingly, Bhimasena beat me below waist. Otherwise, even 10,000 Bhimasenas could not kill me. I myself would have massacred all of you in a moment. You are behind the back of Arjuna killing Bhishma, keeping Sikhandi before him. You are the sole cause for killing Drona by instigating Dharmaja to tell a blatent lie. You provoked Arjuna to kill Karna while he was lifting his car wheel, sunk in the ground. Is there no end for your wretchedness and wickedness? Can you and your Pandavas kill Bhishma,Drona,Karna and Jayadhradha, without resorting to illegal means.” shouted Suyodhana.
“O Suyodhana! Dont you remember all the misdeeds committed by you? Since childhood, you were trying to kill Bhimasena, by administering poison,throwing into deep waters. You tried to kill all of them by burning them alive in a wax house.
You invited Dharmaja for a wicked dice game and grabbed all their wealth and kingdom. You dragged your brothers’ wife, Droupadi, to open assembly and insulted her. You sent them to woods.
Even after completion of 13 years exile, you denied their half share in the kingdom. While I came down to you as an emissary, you tried to imprison me also. As a result of all the above mis deeds, you lost all your kith and kin and yourself.
Bhishma, Drona and others were killed on account of your own greediness, wickedness, covetousness and aggrandizsement but not otherwise. Sikhandi and Dhrishtadyumna were born out of Sacred Fire, with the avowed object of Killing Bhishma and Drona. You dragged them for an unnnecessary war and became root cause for their death.
Dont you feel it unjust to kill Abhimanyu, by surrounding him. Arjuna was not such a fool to self immolate without killing Jayadhradha.
Have you forgotten that when Chitrasena, the Gandharva, abducted you, it was Arjuna and Bhimasena that saved you. At the time of Uttara Gograhana, when Bhishma,Drona,Karna,youself and other warriors were under the influence of Sammohanaastra, Arjuna spared all of you, without killing you. Had Arjuna intended to massacre all of you, he would have done it in a moment. With this, you can understand how virtuous, merciful and compassionate Arjuna is!
When Karna, the man behind the back of all your mis deeds, was lifting his car wheel, how can Arjuna keep quiet without killing him! He was not a fool to lose that golden opportunity. At least you have not blamed Yudhishtira for killing Salya. I am happy.
Suyodhana! think for a while. You, since your childhood, unnecessarily developed hatredness towards Pandavas. But Dharmaja never hated either you or your brothers. You, with your own hands, uprooted the huge tree, Kuru dynasty, with help of a crow bar in the form of wicked dice game. The result is mass massacre.
Suyodhana! you have heard Bhimasena proclaiming in open assembly that he will kill you by beating on your thighs. Having got knowledge about it, you would have taken all precautions to protect your thighs, at least at the time of mace fight. Having taken such vow, will Bhimasena satisfy with mere fisting you on your back. Why unnecessary afterthought.” said Krishna.
“Krishna! I have studied Vedas, Vedangas and several Sastras. I performed numerous Yagnas and yagas. I enjoyed royal pleasures. I was acclaimed by one and all. I suppressed my opponents . Now I am going to heaven to enjoy heavenly pleasures. I may be a wretch in your view. But you all will lead the rest of your life with repentance.” said Suyodhana.
On hearing the words of Suyodhana, a guilty feeling entered the minds of Pandavas and Panchalas, whether they killed Bhishma and Drona unscrupulously. They all lowered their heads with repentance. Beholding this, Krishna said thus:
“You need not worry about the killings of Bhishma, Drona, Karna. They are great heroes. It is highly difficult to kill them in a virtuous manner. Hence we resorted to several methods to kill them. Besides that, their deaths were occurred according to their deeds in their previous births. They were destined to die, by whatever means. You and I are not responsible for their deaths. This is a time to enjoy not to lament for their deaths.”said krishna.
It was sunset. Krishna blew panchajanya, Arjuna blew Devadatta, and other kings blew their respective conches. Sounds of trumpets rose to the sky. All have acclaimed Dharmaja. Pandavas retired to their respective places of stay. Satyaki also accompanied them. Dhrishtadyumna, other Panchala warriors, sons of Droupadi and other Kings have taken leave from Dharmaja and retired to their places of stay. They all decided to proceed to Hastinapura the next day.
Pandavas have reached the Kourava’s tents. Your son’s tent is resembling a desert. None were there except some ladies working there. They welcomed Dharmaja and offered him flowers as a mark of respect. Arjuna was about to get down his chariot.
“Arjuna!Take your Gandiva and Tooneera and get down the chariot. Then I will get down.” said Krishna.
Accordingly Arjuna got down the chariot. Krishna kept the reigns on the chariot and got down. Anjaneya along with his band of demons, had flown away from the top of the chariot. Immediately, that chariot was reduced to ashes. Arjuna was astonished.
“Krishna! what is this! Why my chariot is burnt? Kindly tell me” asked Arjuna.
“Arjuna! you have so far been thinking that you won the battle out of your own prowess, vigour and valour. It is not correct. Your chariot had already been burnt away with the power of all Astras and Sastras launched by Karna. As I am driving your chaiot and Anjaneya was viewing the battle from the top of the chariot, your chariot is in tact. Otherwise, it would have been burnt away long back.” said Krishna.
“Dharmaja! when I arrived at Upaplavya from Dwaraka, you offered me new clothes and also handedover Arjuna to me and requested me to look after his welfare. I agreed for that. Now we have returned from the battle field with great triumph. I am handing over Arjuna safely to you. Now think about your future plans” said Sri Krishna.
“Krishna! all these 18 days, you have been protecting us from time to time. Once Vyasa said: Where there is Krishna, victory will be there. With you blessings only we attained this victory.” said Dharmaja.
“Dharmaja! At the inception, Arjuna was not willing to participate in the war. I told Arjuna, the sacred Gita, and brought him out of depression. Arjuna is the son of Indra. He is capable of doing anything and everything. Nothing is impossible for him. I am only an instrument and nothing else.” said Krishna.
Then Dharmaja took charge of the entire wealth and treasury of Kuru Kingdom. Dharmaja inspected the army troops on Kourava side. . As it was not safe to remain in the Suyodhana’s Tent, they went away.
Later, under the leadership of SriKrishna, Pandavas, Satyaki and other Panchalas went to the banks of Oghavati river and stayed there for that night.
Dharmaja’s heart was filled with great fear. “On the signal given by Arjuna, Bhimasena broke the thighs of Suyodhana and kicked him on his head. If Gandhari comes to know about this, she will definitely curse me. First she should be consoled.” thought Dharmaja. Dharmaja requested Krishna to immediately proceed to Hastinapura and console Dhritarashtra and Gandhara.

Krishna proceeded to Hastinapura and sent word to Dhritarashtra about his arrival. Dhritarashtra invited Krishna into his inner chambers. Even by that time, Saint Veda Vyasa arrived there to console Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. Beholding Vyasa, Krishna fell on his feet, and sought his blessings. Krishna also greeted Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. Krishna took the hands of Dhritarashtra into his hands and consoled him:
“O King Dhritarasthra! your Kuru clan has been destroyed for no reasonable cause. To avoid this catastrophe only, I have come as an emissary on behalfof Pandavas. What had happened on that day, you know pretty well. Had there been an amicable settlement on that day, the situation would have been different. O King Dhritarastra! In disce game, winning or losing is quite common. Have you at any time heard that the winners dragged the family ladies of losers from inner apartments to public places and ordered for removal of clothes. Still Pandavas maintained patience and peace. They never retaliated. Even after undergoing 13 years exile, they requested only for five places for their comfortable stay. But your son, with pride and aggrandizement, turned down their request.
On that day, Vidura and other friends and relatives tried to convince you and your son. You both paid a deaf ear. Now there is no use of thinking about past. We cannot avoid fate. O king Dhritarstra! Pandavas are unblemished. Dont be angry upon them. Now all your sons are dead. Pandavas have to perform the rituals to your family members, even now and in future. Hence you have to think about their welfare.
Dharmaja is very much distressed about the grief caused to you. He deputed me to console you and expressed his lamentations.” said Krishna.
Krishna consoled Gandhari: “ Mother Gandhari! I have never seen such a Royal Mother like you on this earth.You are the only lady who cursed Suyodhana, in the open assembly, for his misdeeds. Still your words are ringing in my ears. But your son did not heed your words. He was unable to realise what is good and what is bad. Had he listen to your words on that day, this disaster could have been avoided.You know that Pandavas are not at all at fault. Kindly, dont be angry with Pandavas. I know that your angry looks will destroy the entire world. You are such a powerful lady. Hence I am requesting like this.” said Krishna.
“Krishna! Your words on that day are transformed into deeds today. Your words are equal to Amruta to my lamenting heart. Krishna! King Dhritarashtra is blind and old. All our sons are dead.He should be looked after by Pandavas.” wept Gandhari. Krishna consoled her.
Krishna immediately left for Kurukshetra, apprehending some danger to Pandavas at the hands of Asvathama. Saint Veda Vyasa also left Hastinapuram. Krishna with great speed reached the banks of River Oghavati and met Pandavas. Krishna explained what had happened at Hastinapura.” said Vaisampanayana, to Janamejaya.
Vaisampayana continued to say: “O King Janamejaya! King Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya:
“O Sanjaya! after the fall of my son, Suyodhana, what had happened. Kindly tell me” asked Dhritarashtra. Sanjaya continued to say:
“I witnessed the mace fight between Suyodhana and Bhimasena, from the nearby bush, where I hid. After Pandavas left that place, I came out of the bushes and went near Suyodhana. The face of Suyodhana is covered with dust and dirt. Suyodhana was lying on the bare ground, unattended. On seeing me, his eyes were filled with tears.
“O Sanjaya! I ruled the entire worth surrounded by four seas. I was the commander in chief of eleven akshouhini strong army. All the kings are under my control. Having enjoyed such royal pleasures, now I am alone, lying on the bare ground, with dust. That unscrupulous Bhimasena hit me under waist. I fell down. Tell all our people about this unjust act of Pandavas. Pandavas killed Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Bhoorisravasa, without any virtue. Is this also a victory? All pandavas and their men will suffer a lot for their misdeeds. Bhimasena will never prosper in future.
Besides hitting me under my waist, Bhimasena kicked my head with his left leg. Will anybody appreciate this? Pandavas did not care for me while I was a King. Now they kicked me with leg. The entire world will curse them. I performed many Yanjas and yagas. I gave plenty of money and gold as charity to brahmins. I gave them villages for their sustenance. I ruled this earth, to the praise of one and all.
Now I am dying here, in this Samantaka Panchakam. I will go to higher divine regions. I never feel about it. Pandavas grabbed my kingdom by defeating me in an unscrupulous manner. If you happen to meet Asvathama, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, kindly convey my anguish to them. Sanjaya! Pandavas are not virtuous people as all others think about them. They are unscrupulous, deceivers and wretched. They are deceiving the entire world under the guise of Dharma.They should never be believed.” said Suyodhana.
Meanwhile, the people residing in the neighbouring villages, and brahmin youth from the nearby ahsrams gathered there. Having seen this gathering, Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma also arrived there. Beholding Suyodhana in such a sad state, they all began to weep with tearful eyes.
“O Suyodhana! You are alwlays surrounded by your brothers, kings and vandi and Magadhas. Why you are lying on earth alone? It is nothing but fate. Where is your strength? Where is your prowess? Where are your commanders? None have come to see you. Where are the servants holding white umbrellas adorned with pearls. Suyodhana! why are you lying on this bare earth with full of dust.. Where is rosewater for your royal bath? You have enjoyed royal plealsures, surrounded by Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Dussasana etc. Where they have gone? Goddess Lakshmi might have left you alone Suyodhana. Fate is very cruel towards you. What can I do Suyodhana?” Asvathama wept like a child.
“O Asvathama! Joys and sorrows are coming and going. We have to enjoy them equally. Lord Brahma have decided our destiny. We have to follow it. Asvathama! when all my friends, relatives, elders have perished in the war, is it just and proper on my part to remain on this earth? I was unscrupulously defeated by my enemy. But I am very happy to see all of you alive.” said Suyodhana.
Suyodhana narrated in detail what had happened there, since the arrival of Pandavas. On hearing this, Asvathama was enraged with great wrath.
“Suyodhana! My heart is burning life wild fire since Dharmaja and Dhrishtadyumna killed my father, Drona by telling a blatent lie. Now, Bhimasena hit you below waist, which is quite against the rules and also kicked you with his leg. There is no use of my survival unless I massacre all Pandavas, Panchalas and their surviving men.
O Suyodhana! I am telling the truth. This is my promise. Today, I will brutally kill all Pandavas, Upa Pandavas, Panchalas, their friends and relatives. This is my vow. Please order me to do so.” Asvathama bowed before Suyodhana.
Suyodhana’s mind was overflowed with great joy. “Kritavarma! send for pure waters from the nearby Ashramams. Chant Mantras. I will instal Asvathama as the Commander of the entire Kourava Army and give him full powers.” ordered Suyodhana.
Kritavarma brought pot full of water from the nearby Ashram. Kripacharya performed Punyaha vachanam, and coronation ceremony, installing Asvathama as the Commander. Asvthama with great vigour and valour, rose to his feet and roared like a lion.
“O King Suyodhana! I will uproot Pandavas and massacre them.Then only I will show my face to you.”
Accompanied by Kritavarma and Kripacharya, Asvathama proceeded towards the tents of Pandavas.” said Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra.
In this manner, Sooti told Sounaka and other sages and saints, the story of Mahabharata, as told by Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya.

MAHA BHARAT
SALYA PARVA SECOND CHAPTER COMPLETED.
WITH THIS SALYA PARVA COMPLETED.
OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT.
Om Tat Sat

(Continued...)
(My humble salutations to Brahmasri M V Subrahmanyam     for the collection)