(Kavitraya) MAHAA BHAARAT
(In Simple English)

Originally written in Sanskritby Bhagavan Veda Vyaasa
(Krishna Dvaipaayana)
Translated into Telugu (a Regional Language of South India)
b y
Sri Nannaya Bhattaarakah
Sri Tikkana Somayaaji
Sri Yerra Pragada.
MAHABHARAT
ASVAMEDHA PARVA
THIRD CHAPTER
In Naimisaranya, on the occasion of Sarpa Yaga, Sooti told Saint Sounaka and other sages and saints, the story of Maha Bharata, as told by Saint Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya at the end of Sarpa Yaga.
After teaching Arjuna about innerself, Krishna told Arjuna thus:
“O Arjuna! My mind is very eager to see my parents Vasudeva and Devaki and also my brother Balarama. Hence I have to proceed immediately to Dwaraka. I am seeking the permission of Dharmaja.” said Krishna.
“If that is so, we immediately proceed to Hastinapura. I will convince Dharmaja about your travel to Dwaraka and take his permission. He himself will give warm send off to you.” said Arjuna.
Both Krishna and Arjuna proceeded to Hastinapuram. While they were proceeding to Hastinapura, Arjuna told Krishna thus:
“O Krishna! with your kind blelssings only I could cross the ocean of Kourava Army and conquer them. I could conquer great warriors like Bhishma, Drona, Karna etc. This victory is yours. Under your guidance and leadership only, we could acquire this victory. O Krishna! you are all pervasive. You are the creator and destroyer of the entire universe. You are the embodiment of Kala (time). Yours inhalation and exhalation itself is Vayu, one of the Pancha Bhootha. Yours blessings are equal to blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. You are the root cause for all pleasures and sorrows, births and deaths occurring in this Universe. The animate and inanimate world is created by you and destroyed by you. You are beyond imagination and you are the master of this Universe.
O Krishna! I am aware that you are the embodiment of all Dharmas, after hearing the preachings of Bhishma, Saints Narada, Devala, Kousika and Vyasa. Out of your love and affection towards me, you again taught me about Adhyatma Vidya. I attained eternal happiness with your preachings.” said Arjuna with great devotion.
Then both Krishna and Arjuna arrived at Hastinapura. They both went to Dhritarashtra and Gandhari and received their blessings. Then they went to Kunti and enquired about her welfare. Then they visited Vidura, Dhoumya, Yuyutsa and Sanjaya. Then they went to Dharmaja. Dharmaja hugged Krishna with affection.
“O brother Yudhishtira! Krishna stayed at Hastinapura for long time. He is incliend to go back to Dwaraka to see his parents and brother as they are eagerly waiting for Krishna’s arrival. O brother! after spending some time with parents and brothers, Krishna will come back to Hastinapura. Hence you may take an appropriate decision with regard to arrangements for sending off Krishna.” said Arjuna.
Dharmaja was very happy. “O Arjuna! let us do like that. Krishna! You can proceed to Dwaraka and convey my salutations to Vasudeva and Devaki and your brother Balarama. After spending some time with them, you, along with your parents, brothers, wives, relatives and friends, come back to Hastina to grace Asvamedha Yaga to be performed by me. This is my heartfelt invitation for Asvamedha Yaga.” said Dharmaja.
Then Krishna met Kunti and obtained her permission. He also took permission from Kunti and Arjuna to take Subhadra along with him to Dwaraka. Then Krishna departed for Dwaraka.
On the way, Krishna stayed for a while in the Ashram of Saint Udanka.Udanka received Krishna with due honours. Udanka asked Krishna thus:
“Krishna! Are Pandavas and Kouravas safe at Hastinapura. Have brothers amicably settled their disputes. Have you effected mediation between the brothers. Are they ruling their respective kingdoms happily.” asked Udanka.
Krishna said Udanka thus: “I tried my level best to effect mediation between Kouravas and Pandavas and I spoke few words softly. I also even threatened Kouravas with harsh words. I spared no effort to effect amicable settlement between Pandavas and Kouravas. But Suyodhana paid no heed to my advices. Along with me, Bhishma, Drona and others also advised Suyodhana to agree for mediation. Even the sages and saints present there also tried to advise Suyodhana but in vain. War became imminent. Except five pandavas, all were killed in the war. None can avoid the fate.” said Krishna.
On hearing these words, Udanka enraged with great wrath.
“Krishna! you are entirely responsible for the war and the mass massacre. You deceived Kouravas with your crooked ideas. Inspite of possessing the capacity and talent to mediate amicably between both Pandavas and Kouravas, you never tried to do so. You lead both to war. Hence I intend to curse you.” said Udanka.
Having heard those words, Krishna said: “O Saint Udanka! Kindly hear me patiently and then do whatever you like. Saints do not get anger. Subside your anger. Dont curse me and waste your power of Tapas. Give me a patient hearing.” said Krishna.
“Yes. I will hear whatever you say. Come on. Tell.” said Udanka.
“O Saint Udanka! I will tell you who am I. I am possessed with the qualities of Satva, Rajas and Tamas and they act according to my command. Maruts, Vasuvus etc. divine bodies came out of me. I am omnipresent and all pervasive. I am the embodiment of the entire creation. I am Para and Apara tathva. Omkara, three vedas, four castes, four ashrams, and their Karmas, Svarga, Moksha are nothing but mine. They are all my reflections. Sages and saints praise me in Yagas and Yajnas and attain the fruits of Yajnas and Yagas. Even sinners also praise and annihilate their sins. Whenever Adharma grows and Dharma decays, I myself appear in some form or other and eradicate Adharma and protect Dharma. I, as Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara discharge different kinds of duties. I look after creation, sustenance and destruction in three forms.
O Udanka! though I am capable of doing anything and everything, still I tried my level best to mediate between Pandavas and Kouravas. All my trials were appreciated by Vyasa and other sages and saints. But Kouravas did not pay heed to my words. Hence war became inevitable. Kouravas were defeated. This was what had happened. Now you can do whatever you like.” said Krishna.
“O Krishna! I know what you are and your miracles. But I was badly influenced by instant wrath. Hence I blamed you. Now all the dirt in my mind is wahsed away with your nectar like words. I got a desire to behold your visvaroopa. Why cannot you show it to me.” prayed Udanka.
Sri Krishna acceded to his request. Udanka beheld the Visvaroopa. Beholding Visvaroopa, Udanka was subjected to fear, joy, amazement, and inexplicable state of mind. With folded hands, Udanka prayed:
“O Pundareekaasha! the entire earth is filled with your feet and the entire sky is filled with your head. Your arms and hands occupied four sides of this Universe. You are allpervasive with innumerable heads, hands and legs. I beheld your Visvaroopa as an eye feast. Kindly withdraw your Visvaroopa and appear before me in your original beautifil form.” prayed Udanka.
Sri Krishna appeared before Udanka in his mortal form. “Udanka! I would like you to have a boon from me, choose whatever you like.” asked Krishna.
“I beheld your visvaroopa which is impossible for others. I do not require anything. As you are asking me, I express my desire. This is draught stricken area. There is no groundwater available. Hence kindly bless me with plenty of water whenever I need.” prayed Udanka.
“It will be done. Whenever you are in need of water, you think about me in your mind. Water will be available to you.” said Krishna.
Then Krishna left for Dwaraka. Some days later, on one day, Udanka was thirsty. No drop of water was available. Udanka saw a low caste man, without clothes, with dogs around him. His body was dirty but pure water was oozing out of his body as sweat. He called Udanka and said:
“Udanka! I suppose you are suffering with thirst. Why cannot you drink the pure water coming out of my body.” said that low caste man.
Udanka grew angry and scolded him and asked him to get out of that place. He went away along with his dogs. Meanwhile Krishna appeared there.
Udanka asked Krishna: “O Krishna! you said when ever I think about you, pure water will be available. Today, instead of pure water, sweat of a low caste man is available. Is this the boon given by you.” asked Udanka.
“Udanka! you lost a great chance. When you thought about me, I requested Devendra to offer you Amrutha. But Devendra declined to give Amrutha to human beings. But unable to reject my request, he appeared before you as a low caste man with Amrutha as his sweat. But you scolded him and drove him away. What can I do? Anyhow, I will give you another boon. Whenever you are in need of water, clouds will be formed instantaneously and rain before you. Those clouds are called Udanka Clouds which rain untimely.” said Krishna.
Then Krishna disappeared. Since then, in that area, Udanka clouds are raining throughout the year.” said Saint Vaisampayana to Janamejaya, the story of Udanka.
“O Saint Vaisampayana! who is this Udanka? How Udanka got the power even to curse Sri Krishna? Kindly tell me.” asked Janamejaya. Saint Vaisampayana continued to say:
“O Janamejaya! Out of devotion towards his Guru and his service to his Guru, he got such a power. Udanka was the student of Saint Goutama. On completion of education, Saint Goutama sent away all his students except Udanka. Udanka continued to serve Goutama as before.
One day, Udanka was carrying heavy load of fuel. While dropping the fuel load on ground, part of his tuft caught in the fuel and cut. All the hair in that tuft were white, pointing out his old age. Udanka thought that he was becoming old. Udanka began to weep loudly. Beholding this, Goutama asked his daughter to catch the tears of Udanka in her hand.
“Udanka! why you are weeping like this? What is the reason?” asked Goutama.
“O my guru! you sent out all your students. They got married and leading Grihastha life. Though I am becoming old, I remain unmarried. That is the reason for my misery.” said Udanka.
Goutama smiled and said: “Dont worry Udanka. I will give my daughter in marriage to you. You can lead a happy married life.” said Goutama.
Goutama performed the marriage of his daughter with Udanka. Udanka requested his Guru Goutama to choose anything as Guru Dakshina. Goutama declined to receive anything from Udanka and went away. Udanka asked Ahalya, wife of Goutama.
Ahalya said thus: “ O Udanka! if you really intend to offer Guru Dakshina, you go to Mitra Sakha and bring the ear rings from his wife. I will be happy.” said Ahalya.
Udanka immediately left that place in search of Mitra Sakha. Meanwhile Goutama returned back and Ahalya informed him about her desire and sending Udanka to Mitra Sakha.
“Ahalya! you did a mistake. That Mitra Sakha, also called, Soudasa, became a man-eater on account of curse of a Brahmin. Udanka does not know about this. Anything may happen.” said Goutama.
“I am sorry. I did a mistake. Kindly see that nothing happens to Udanka” prayed Ahalya.
Goutama smiled and said: “Dont worry. Nothing happens to Udanka.” said Goutama, consoling his wife.
There Udanka was going in search of Mitra sakha. Udanka met Soudasa in the middle of the forest. His body was drenched with blood. His eyes were read. He was frightful. Udanka was not afraid of Soudasa and his appearance.
“ My name is Soudasa. Who are you? Where are you going? I am in search of my food. Today, you are my prey. I never leave you. I will kill you and consume you” said Soudasa.
“O Soudasa! My name is Udanka. I am going on a mission of my Guru. It is sinful to kill a person, going on the mission of his Guru. I do not think you resort to this kind of Adharma.” said Udanka.
“O Udanka! Divine bodies ordered me to consume human flesh during the third spell of the day. Now we are in third spell of this day. I am hungry. I have to kill you and consume your flesh.” said Soudasa.
“O Soudasa! you can do as you like. Kindly permit me to accomplish the desire of my Guru’s wife. I will come back to you. You can kill me and subside your hunger. Trust me. I heard you give away whatever brahmins ask. But I am not asking anything for my sake. I am asking for the sake of my Guru. I hope and trust that you spare my life for the present.” said Udanka.
Convinced with the words of Udanka, Soudasa asked him about his desire.
“O Soudasa! Ahalya, wife of my Guru, sent me to bring the ear rings from Mitra Sakha.” said Udanka.
“O Brahmin! I am Mitra Sakha. You go to my wife and request her. She will give the ear rings.” said Soudasa.
Udanka went to the wife of Soudasa and said: “O mother! my salutations to you. Your husband sent me to take the ear rings from you.” said Udanka.
“Have you got any identification from my husband to believe that you have come from my husband” asked Madayanti, wife of Soudasa.
Udanka returned back to Soudasa and asked him to give anything to identify him.
“Udanka! I tell you some words. Repeat those words before her. She will identify you.” said Soudasa. Soudasa said thus: “It cannot be said that this is safe. But except this, there is no other way out.”
Udanka again went to Madayanti and repeated those words. Madayanti satisfied with those words and gave away ear rings to Udanka. “O Udanka! Take care. Divine bodies, Gandharvas, Nagas are planning to grab these ear rings. Hence be careful. There is every possibility of the earrings being stolen whenever you eat others’ food, during sleep and when the rings touch earth. If you worship these earrings with devotion, you wont feel thirst and hunger. You need not be afraid of demons, devils, poison or fire. These ear rings are suited even to children, middle aged or old. These ear rings shower huge amount of gold daily. Hence safeguard the earrings till they are handed over to Ahalya.” said Madayandi.
Udanka received those ear rings from Madayanti and worshipped those earring with greatest devotion. He tied the ear rings in a cloth bundle and tucked it to his elbow.
He returnedback to Soudasa and said: “With your blessings, I got the ear rings. But I could not understand the meaning of the words you said as identification. If you donot mind, kindly tell me the meaning of those words.” asked Udanka.
Soudasa said thus: “O brahmin Udanka! In this world, Kshatriyas worship brahmins. I also worship brahmins. But on account of a small mistake committed by me towards a Brahmin, I was cursed to consume human flesh. The only remedy for my sin is worshipping Brahmins. But it is highly difficult to worship brahmins. Eventhough I worship brahmins, I cannot say I can get rid of this sin. But there is no otherway except worshipping brahmins. This is the meaning of my key words. Because you are a brahmin. I thought I can get rid of my sins by giving way the earrings to you.” said Soudasa.
Udanka blessed Soudasa. Soudasa got rid of all his sins and he attained his previous intelligence and humbleness and also the tendency to worship brahmins.
Beholding Soudasa, Udanka said: “O Soudasa! with your grace, I could get the ear rings. I have to go back to my Ashram and hand over the ear rings to the wife of my Guru. According to my word, I will come back again. Then you can consume my flesh and subside your hunger.” said Udanka.
“O Udanka! knowing fully well that I will kill you, you say that you come back to me. I am very much satisfied with your truthfulness. Kindly eradicate my evils with the power of your Tapas.” prayed Soudasa.
“O Soudasa! If your mind is pure and clean, even if you commit wrong, it will be eradicated in no time. Your virtue itself eradicates your sins.” said Udanka.
After taking leave from Soudasa, Udanka proceeded towards his Ashram. On the way, Udanka saw a fruit bearing tree. He hanged the bag containing ear rings to a branch of the tree, and climbed the tree. While he was eating the fruits, there was a gale and the bag fell down on the ground. Meanwhile, a cobra which was waiting there to grab the ear rings, immediately caught the bag with its mouth and ran away speedily.
Beholding this, Udanka alighted the tree and chased the cobra. The cobra entered a snake hole and disappeared. Udanka took a small stick and began to dig the snake hole. At that time, Devendra, in the attire of a Brahin came there.
“O Brahmin! is it possible to make a tunnel to reach Patala Loka with this small stick. Patala Loka is about one thousand yojanas from here. Do you know who stole your ear rings. He is the son of Serpant King Iravata.” said Indra.
“O Brahmin! I wont leave him. I recover my ear rings even if they are taken to Paataala.Loka.” promised Udanka.
Indra was very much satisfied with the strong desire of Udanka. Hence Devendra attributed the power of Vajrayudha to that small stick. When Udanka dug the earth with that stick equivalent to Vajrayudha, earth gave way to Paataala Loka. Udanka went to Naga Loka.
On the way, he saw a horse, with red,black and white colours. The horse said: “O Udanka! I know who you are. I am the Agni worshipped by you daily. I will tell you where your ear rings are. You blow from my back.” said the horse. Accordingly, Udanka blew air from horse back.
With that blowing, fire, smoke, flames emanated from the body of the horse and surrounded the entire Naga Loka. All Nagas, whose prime food is fresh air, suffered with suffocation. Son of Iravata who stole the earrings, ran back to Udanka and handedover the ear rings to Udanka and prayed for mercy. Udanka pardoned them and went back to his Ashram and handedover the ear rings to Ahalya, wife of Goutama.
Beholding Udanka, Goutama said: “O Udanka! You brought ear rings from Soudasa and also recovered the stolen ear rings from Naga Loka. Except you, none can accomplish this task.” said Goutama.
O Janamejaya! this is the story of Udanka.” said Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya.
Vaisampayana continued to say thus: “O Janamejaya! after leaving Udanka, Sri Krishna arrived at Dwaraka. At that time, arrangements were being made for the Raivataka festivals. All the people in Dwaraka were engaged in making those arrangements.
On hearing about the arrival of Sri Krishna, everybody stopped from going to Raivataka Hill. They extended warm welcome to Sri Krishna. Sri Krishna first met his parents, Devaki and Vasudeva and elder brother, Balarama and saluted them. Then Sri Krishna conveyed the salutations of Dharmaja to his parents and Balarama. Then Sri Krishna went to his inner apartments and met his wives and children.
In the evening, Vasudeva sat by the side of Sri Krishna and enquired about the Bharata Yudha and its highlights. Sri Krishna said thus: “O my dear father, Vasudeva! Bharata Yudha continued for 18 days. 18 akshouhinis army--- 11 akhsouhinis on Kouravas side and 7 akshouhinis on Pandavas side, took part in the battle. Chief of Army for Kouravas was Bhishma. To kill Bhishma, Arjuna kept Sikhandi in front of him, and pierced arrows throughout his body. Bishma fell down on arrow bed. But Bhishma, with the power of Svachanda Marana, was alive till the advent of Uttara Ayana, and left his mortal body. Till then he spent his time on arrow bed.
After the fall of Bhishma, Drona became the Chief of Army. He fought for five days and was killed by Dhrushtadyumna, with the help of Dharmaja. Then Karna, King of Anga, became the Chief of Army. Karna fought the battle for two days and was killed by Arjuna. Next day Salya was made the Chief of Army who fought for half day and died at the hands of Dharmaja. It was the turn of Sakuni to be crowned as Chief of Army. Soon after Sakuni entered the Battle field, Sahadeva killed him in no time. Having lost all his brothers, friends and relatives, Suyodhana remained alone in the battle field.
Suyodhana fled away and hid underneath a tank, in deep waters. Having found about the whereabouts if Suyodhana, Dharmaja along with his brothers and friends and relatives went to that pond and provoked Suyodhana, with spearlike words, for dual fight. Suyodhana and Bhimasena fought with each other with maces. Bhima broke the thighs of Suyodhana and killed him. With the fall of Suyodhana, Bharata War was completed. Pandavas got complete victory.
On that night there was a great mishap. Enraged with the killing of Suyodhana, in an unusual manner, Asvadhamedha, accompniaed by Kripacharya and Kritavarma, went to the tents of Pandavas and massacred all the sons of Pandavas and their army. As myself and five pandavas were away from our respective tents, we survived.
Therefore, in the 18 days long battle, myself and five Pandavas, Satyaki survived on pandavas side and Asvathama, Kritavarma and Kripacharya survived on Kouravas side. As Yuyutsu, brother of Suyodhana, changed towards Pandavas side even at the beginning of war, he survived. This is the story of Bharata battle in nutshell.” said Sri Krishna.
Purposefully, Sri Krishna did not reveal about the death of Abhimanyu, as it may cause great grief to Vasudeva. But Subhadra could not control her grief. Subhadra cried aloud.
“Obrother Krishna! tell. tell to your father Vasudeva that my son Abhimanyu was killed by many in Padmavyooha. Explain him the details about my son’s death.” crying aloud, Subhadra fell on the ground and lost consciousness.
Having heard about the death of Abhimanyu, all lamented for his death.
Then Sri Krishna told his parents about the death of Abhimanyu. Sri Krishna told about the Pandavas and Dhtarashtra performing the funerals and obsequies ceremonies for those who are dead in war. Slowly, in course of time, all of them recovered from their grief.” said Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
“O Saint Vaisampayana! You told me that Vyasa advised Dharmaja to perform Asvamedha Yaga. How Dharmaja performed Asvamedha Yaga? Kindly tell me.” asked Janamejaya.
Saint Vaisampayana told thus: “O Janamejaya! On the advice of Saint Vayasa, Dharmaja told his brothers thus: “O Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva! you have heard the advice of Saint Vyasa. You are all aware that we have no suifficient funds to perform the Yaga. We have to bring the gold hidden by brahmins, as told by Vyasa. Tell me the arrangements to be made for bringing that wealth to Hastina.” asked Dharmaja.
Bhima told thus: “Obrother Dharmaja! first we have to worship Prameswara with great devotion and seek his blessings. Then we have to worship Pramadha Ganas and offer Bhoota Bali at that spot. Then only we can unearth that wealth. Therefore, we need not worry about funds. We can acquire that wealth as it is open for all and so far nobody claimed that wealth, as told by Saint Vyasa. Therefore we have to start from Hastina with sufficient army, carts and workmen to bring that gold.” said Bhima.
Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadevca concurred with Bhima. Dharmaja decided to go to Himalayas. After taking permission from his paternal uncle, Dhritarashtra and Gandhari and also mother Kunti, Dharmaja convened a meeting to make alternative arrangements for administration. He deputed Yuyutsa to look after the protection of Hastinapura assisted by Vidura.
Dharmaja ordered his army generals to make arrangements for journey to Himalayas. Then Dharmaja worshipped all divine bodies and Pitaras and performed charities. He worshipped Agni and saluted his Purohit, Dhoumya. While virtuous ladies were offering their blessings, Dharmaja along with his brothers, in their respective chariots, started to Himalayas.
They reached Himalayas few days later. Vyasa also joined them at Himalayas. Vyasa told them thus: “For this night you have to sleep on mats. Tomorrow, early morning, before sunrise, you have to worship Lord Siva.” said Vyasa.
Accordingly, Dharmaja and his brothers woke up early in the morning and installed Maha Siva worshipped Lord Sive and offered dhoopa, deepa and naivedya. Then they invoked Pramadha Ganas and worshipped them. They invoked Kubera, Manibhadra and other Yakshas with great devotion and worshipped them.
While Dhoumya was proceeding ahead of them, Pandavas went to the place where the treasure was hidden. First, they worshipped the demons, protecting that treasure with red flowers, meat, etc. and satisfied those demons. Then Dharmaja saluted Vyasa and sought his blessings. Then Dharmaja offered sacrifices to the treasure. Then they unearthed the treasure.
The golden treasure was loaded into thousands of carts. The golden treasure contained golden household articles like vessels, glasses, grinders, gold bars, gold coins etc made up of pure Gold. Thousands of carts, loaded with gold, were proceeding towards Hastinapuram. Pandavas also started to Hastinapuram.
In Dwaraka, Sri Krishna extended the Asvamedha yaga invitation of Dharmaja to his parents, brother and other Yadavas.
Sri Krishna, along with his parents, wives, sons, his brother Balarama, Satyaki, Kritavarma, Pradyumna, Samba etc. arrived at Hastinapura. On hearing about the arrival of Sri Krishna and Yadavas, Dhritarashtra, Gandhari were very happy. They deputed Yuyutsa and Vidura to receive them with due honours. Accordingly, Yuyutsa and Vidura extended warm welcome to Sri Krishna and others.
Sri Krishna, Balarama and Yadavas first visited the inner apartment of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari and saluted them. Then they met Mother Kunti. Subhadra sought the blessings of Kunti. Vidura and Yuyutsa made arrangements for the comfortable stay of Sri Krishna and Balarama and other Yadavas.
Meanwhile, Uttara, wife of Abhimanyu, who was pregnant even at the time of killing of Abhimanyu in Padmavyooha, delivered a stillborn child (child dead in womb). Entire Dwaraka plunged into grief and sorrow. Krishna came to know about this. He immediately proceeded to Kunti, along with his brothers. Kunti, Droupadi and Subhadra were lamenting loudly for the death of the child. Kunti, with choked voice, told Krishna thus:
“O Krishna! Except you, none else are there to save us. Look at that child. He is son of Abhimanyu, your sister’s son. But he is born dead. It is only due to the Brahma Sironamaka Astra (hereinafter called Brahma Astra) launched by Asvadhama. With the influence of Brahma Astra, the child is dead even in womb of Uttara. You have to save that child. Have you forgotten the promise made while Asvadhama launched Brahma Astra. You promised you will protect the child in the womb of Uttara.
Krishna! our lives are in your hands. If the child is alive, we will survive. Otherwise, we have to die. If this child is not alive, none will remain in Pandava clan to offer Pindas and water to Pitaras. Hence you have to give life to this child and eradicate the grief of Uttara.
O Krishna! you have been always protecting the Pandavas all the while. This child is the only survivor of Pandava clan. Hence give him life and protect Pandava Clan.” prayed Kunti.
Now Subhadra prayed his brother Krishna thus: “O Krishna! my beloved brother! To please Syodhana, Asvathama launched Brahma Astra. Now sufferers are myself and my husband, Arjuna. We lost the only survivor of Pandava clan. Arjuna is still lamenting in his inner self, remembering his son, Abhimanyu. Now Abimanyu’s son also is dead. Imagine the fate of Arjuna and his brothers, Dharmaja, Bhima, Nakula and Sahadeva.
O brother Krishna! have you forgotten your promise that you will nullify the Brahma Astra launched by Asvadhama and we were consoled with your words. But your promise is not fructified. Now it is time to save the child. I do not think that Pandavas will be defeated while you are alive. But, in your very presence, Asvadhama destroyed the only survivor of Pandava clan.
O Protector of your Devotees! I know that you alone are capable of restoring life to those who are dead. Now the grand son of your brother in law, your friend, your heart, is lying dead in front of you. Will you keep quiet. Kindly restore life to this child.” prayed Subhadra.
Krishna’s mind melted with the words of Kunti and Subhadra. “Dont worry. I will try my level best to restore life to the child” promised Krishna. Along with Kunti, Subhadra Krishna went to the labour room. Subhadra went near Uttara and woke her up and said:
“O Uttara! wake up. see who has come. Srikrishna has come to see you.” said Subhadra. Uttara opened her eyes. Beholding Sri Krishna, Uttara saluted Krishna and said:
“O God Krishna!All are aware that you always protect your devotees. Why cannot you shower your kindness and blessings towards me and bring back the life of this child. I lost my husband in war. Now I lost my child also. How can I survive without husband and child. O Krishna! has Asvadhama got the capacity to kill the son of your own nephew? I would have followed my husband by burning myself on his pyre. As I was pregnant then, I could not follow my husband. Now I cannot live without my son. If I go to heaven, my husband may ask about my child. What would be my reply? Had I known on that day that I would be deprived of my child today, I would have followed my husband. I thought of showing my child to Sri Krishna with great joy. That cruel Asvadhama made my joy futile.” lamented Uttara keeping the dead body of the child on his lap.
She is waking up the child... “O my love! get up. your grand father Sri Krishna has come. Get up and salute him. Is it proper to sleep while elders visit you.” so lamenting Uttara fell on the ground.
Beholding the grief of Uttara, everybody present there were weeping, showering tears from their eyes. Sri Krishna tried to console Uttara.
“O Uttara! dont worry. I will bring back the life of your son.” promised Krishna. Krishna washed his feet and performed Achamanam. He sat down on a plank. Closed his eyes. Opened his inner eye. With his strong will, he nullified the Brahma Siromaka Astra launched by Asvadhama. He asked Uttara to keep the dead body on a bed. Krishna promised “I will see that the child is alive.”.
Then Krishna, with concentrated will and mind made the following promises.
If I do not lie even with my enemy, if I do not turn my foot even in a dreadful war, this child will be alive.
If I do not feel any grudge in my mind towards Arjuna at any point of time, this child will be alive.
If it is true that I killed Kamsa and others only to instal dharma, and if those killings of demons are acceptable to wise and learned, this child will be alive.
If I follow truth, Dharma and Brahmacharya always, this child will be alive.” promised Sri Krishna with highly concentrated mind.
With those promises, there was a movement in the child. He was moving his legs and hands. The child slowly opened his eyes and smiled.
Beholding this Kunti, Droupadi, Subhadra’s joy knew no bounds. Their eyes were filled with joyful tears. Their bodies trembled. The hair on their body erected. Everybody there acclaimed with great joy.
O King Janamejaya! in that manner, your father got back his life.” said Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya.
Saint Vaisampayana continued to say: “On hearing the joyful utterances, Uttara regained consciousness and saw the child playing by moving his hands and legs vigorously and smiling with joy. She could not control her joy. She took the child into her arms and rushed before Sri Krishna. She fell on the feet of Sri Krishna. Krishna lifted her and wiped her tears.
Yadavas brought many presents to the child. Sri Krishna proclaimed, to the hearing of one and all, loudly
“At the moment when everybody thought that the entire Pandava clan came to end, this child is reborn. Hence he is named as Parikshit.”
O Janamejaya! from that day on wards, your father was called as Parikshit. In that manner, on account of Sri Krishna, your clan was revived.
One month elapsed. Parikshit is one month old. By that time, Dharmaja along with his brothers entered Hastinapura along with numerous cart loads of gold. Krishna advised Vidura and Yuyutsa to make arrangements for welcoming Pandavas.
The entire city of Hastinapura was decorated with plaintain stems, mango leaves and garlands of pearls. Sri Krishna, Balarama, Vidura, Yuyutsa, yadava chiefs welcomed Pandavas. Along with golden treasure, Pandavas entered the city of Hastinapura.
Dharmaja along with his brothers went to the inner apartments of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari and saluted them. Then they saluted their mother Kunti. When all were taking rest in a court yard, Pandavas were informed in detail about the delivery of stillborn child by Uttara and about the miraculous rebirth of Parikshit.
Pandavas were astonished on hearing the miracles of Sri Krishna. Pandavas praised Sri Krishna in several ways.
Few days later, Vyasa arrived at Hastinapura. Pandavas received Vyasa and offered him Arghyam and Padyam. Dharmaja told Vyasa thus:
“O Saint Vyasa! with your advise and blessings, we could acquire enormous and suffient funds for performing Asvamedha Yaga. With your kind permission, I will commence Asvamedha Yaga.” said Dharmaja.
Vyasa blessed him with all good wishes. Beholding Krishna, Dharmaja said thus: “OKrishna! With your kindness, we acquired victory in great war. We earnestly request you to see that Asvamedha Yaga also is performed with the same kindness. You are our father, mother, teacher, guide and philosopher. You direct us. We follow your directions.” prayed Dharmaja.
“O Dharmanandana! Bhagavan Vyasa is eldest of all. He ordered all of us to perform Asvamedha Yaga. Let us follow his directions. In fact I myself told you at the beginning to perform Asvamedha Yaga. Hence it is my endeavour to get it done successfully. There is no necessity for you to obtain again my permission. You are the Kartha of this Yaga. You have to direct us. We have to follow your instructions. All your mental agony will vanish with the performance of Asvamedha yaga.” said Sri Krishna.
Dharmaja was very happy. Beholding Vyasa, Dharmaja said: “O Vyasa! kindly fix an auspicious day to commence Yaga and perform necessary rituals.” prayed Dharmaja.
“O Dharmaja! myself, Yajnavalkya and Paila will conduct this Yaga. In the coming Chaitra month, Pournami day (full moon day) is most auspicious day. We require one Horse with good features and qualities. Send for it. That horse, left by us according to Vedic hymns, goes round the entire earth and spreads your name and fame through out the earth.” said Vyasa.
Then Dharmaja made arrangements to acquire a horse with good qualities and ordered to manufacture all utensils required for Yajna with gold only.
Within a few days, a white horse, utensils made up of gold and all other necessary materials and articles were made ready for the performance of Asvamedha Yaga. Dharmaja reported to Vyasa that all arrangements are made successfully. Vyasa was very much satisfied with the horse.
“O Saint Vyasa! we will leave the horse freely to move around the earth. But who will guard that horse. Name a warrior for that purpose.” asked Dharmaja.
“O Dharmanandana! who else is there except Arjuna who is virtuous, intelligent, wise with excellent vigour and valour. Arjuna is the only warrior fit for this task.” said Vyasa.
Vyasa again said: “O Dharmaja! you will be performing Yaga. Bhima and Nakula are kept in charge of administration and protecting the kingdom. Sahadeva will be in charge of inner apartments and womenfolk.” said Vyasa.
Dharmaja called Arjuna and said: “O Arjuna! this horse is meant for Asvamedha yaga. You have to guard it always. You alone are capable to discharge this task. Whereever this horse moves and wanders, you have to inform them that this is the Asvamedha Yaga Horse. You have to see that this horse moves around the earth freely without any obstruction or obstacle.” said Dharmaja.
Arjuna gladly accepted the offer. After obtaining the permission from Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti, Dharmaja along with Droupadi sat in dedication to perform Asvamedha Yaga.” said Saint Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya the story of Maha Bharata, which was retold by Soota to Saint Sounaka and other sages and saints gathered at Satra Yaga in Naimisaranya.
Maha Bharata
Asvamedha Parva
Third chapter completed.
Om Tatsat Om Tatsat Om Tatsat.
In Naimisaranya, on the occasion of satra yaga, Sooti, the story teller, told Saint Sounaka and other sages and saints, the story of Maha Bharata as was told by Saint Vaisampayana to King Janamejaya, at the end of Sarpa yaga.
The day fixed for performing Asvamedha Yaga was fast approaching. On one auspicious day, Dharmaja along with Droupadi took deeksha from Veda Vyasa. Dharmaja worshipped the Yaga Asva (horse meant for Yaga) and left it free. Arjuna along with his forces accompanied the horse. The people of Hastinapura, stood on either side of all streets and blessed Arjuna. Receiving their blessings, Arjuna left Hastinapura, accompanying the horse. One student of Saint Yajna Valkya along with some brahmins, also accompanied the horse.
The horse proceeded towards north and entered Trigartha Kingdom. The Kings of Trigartha tried to catch the horse.
“O Princes! This is Yaga Asva left by Dharmaja. I am its protector. Any harm caused to this horse is equivalent to harming Dharmaja. Why should we bear enmity amongst ourselves. My brother Dharmaja told me thus:
“Many kings died in war. Their heirs are ruling their respective kingdoms. Dont try to kill them. Extend your friendly hand to them. Even if they catch the horse, try to pacify them and restrain them, remembering our relationship.”.
Hence I never fight with you. Kindly be friendly with me and Dharmaja. Your lives are dearest to you also.” said Arjuna politely.
But they refused to obey the preachings of Arjuna. Surya Varma king of Trigartha, showered arrows on Arjuna. Arjuna cut all those arrows in middle. Arjuna never tried to hurt him.
Meanwhile, Ketu Varma, brother of Soorya Varma, arrived there. He also poured arrowy showers on Arjuna. Arjuna chased Ketu Varma from battle field.
Meanwhile Dhruta, Varma brother of Ketu Varma, arrived there. He also covered Arjuna with his arrows. Arjuna appreciated Dhruta Varma for his archery skills. Arjuna never retaliated Dhruta Varma. Arjuna was only cutting the arrows shot by Dhruta Varma. But Dhruta Varma shot numerous arrows piercing into the body of Arjuna. Gandiva slipped from the hand of Arjuna and fell down. Arjuna picked up his Gandiva and shot numerous arrows and destroyed the entire army of Trigartha. Remaining soldiers fled away. Arjuna never chased them and killed them.
After conquering Trigartha, the horse entered Pragjyotishapura. Vajradatta son of Bhagadatta, was ruling that kingdom. Vajradatta captured the horse and proclaimed war against Arjuna. But Vajradatta was unable to stand before Arjuna and fled away. After some time, Vajradatta, mounting his huge elephant, re entered the battle field. While Vajradatta was shooting arrows against Arjuna, Arjuna was simply cutting them in middle. Arjuna never caused harm to him.
Vajradatta fought with Arjuna for three days. On the fourth day, Vajradatta challenged Arjuna:
“O Arjuna! because my father was older in age, you could kill him in war. But I am young and energetic. Your death is in my hands.!” challenged Vajradatta. Then Vajradatta drove his huge elephant against Arjuna. Arjuna, with one single arrow, killed the elephant. Vajradatta fell down.
Arjuna told Vajradatta thus: “O Vajradatta! this is Yaga Asva left by Dharmaja. I am protecting it. Dharmaja asked me not to kill any body even if they obstruct the horse. Hence I never caused harm to you. I have no anger against you. I am extending the invitation of Dharmaja to you, your friends and relatives, to attend the Asvamedha Yaga on the ensuing Chaitra Sudha Pournami.” said Arjuna politely.
Having left with no other alternative,Vajradatta accepted the invitation and left the horse.
Then the horse proceeded towards Sindhu kingdom. In the Maha Bharata War, the rulers of Sindhu viz., Saindhava and others were killed. Their sons were ruling Sindhu Kingdom. Knowing that Arjuna was proceeding towards Sindhu Kingdom, all of them collectively attacked Arjuna.
First they captured the horse and declared war against Arjuna. They all showered arrows on Arjuna incessantly. Arjuna attacked the Sindhu army and massacred them. The sindhu army fled away. But the Sindhu warriors, regrouped their army and againt attacked Arjuna.
Arjuna conveyed the message of Dharmaja to all of them. But they paid no heed to his advices. Having found no other way, Arjuna killed all the Sindhu warriors.
At that time, Dussala wife of Saindhava (sister of Suyodhana and Arjuna) arrived there. Beholding Dussala, Arjuna alighted his chariot and came near her.
Dussala told Arjuna thus: “O brother Arjuna! This boy is my grand child. Kindly bless him.” said Dussala.
“O sister! where is his father i.e., son of Saindhava?” asked Arjuna.
“O brother Arjuna! my son suffered great grief on hearing that his father, Saindhava, died at your hands. On hearing that you have come, he died with heart attack. This boy is the only heir for this kingdom.” said Dussala.
Arjuna lamented for the death of the son of Saindhava. Again Dussala said thus: “O brother Arjuna! Suyodhana and his brothers caused untold miseries to all of you. My husband Saindhava also caused much hardship to you. Kindly dont keep them in mind. My grand child is left without father. Kindly save his life.” Dussala put her grand child at the feet of Arjuna.
“O sister Dussala! your brothers and your husband may be wrong doers.. But what about us. We also fought the war and massacred our own kith and kin. It is a great sin to take birth as Kshatriya. Dont be afraid. Your grand child is safe.” said Arjuna.
Pleased with the words of Arjuna, Dussala along with her grand child, left that place. Then Arjuna followed Yaga Asva.
Afterwards, none dared to obstruct Yaga Asva. The horse was going round all kingdoms and entered Manipoora kingdom. The king of Manipoora was Babhruvahana son of Arjuna, through Chitrangada. On hearing about the arrival of Arjuna, Babhru Vahana made arrangements to receive his father, Arjuna, at the outskirts of the city. He welcomed his father. But Arjuna refused the welcome accorded by Babhruvahana.
Arjuna said: “O Babhruvahana! you are my son. You are a great warrior. It is Kshatriya Dharma to catch the horse and resist its further movement. Welcoming the enemy like a coward is not Kshariya Dharma. Such a Kshatriya cannot become a King. If you are capable, you can catch the horse and fight with me.” said Arjuna, provoking Babhruvahana.
As Babhruvahana was not inclined to fight with his father, he returned back and was passing through the royal path. Uloopi, another wife of Arjuna, came to know about this through her divine vision. She came down to Babhruvahana. (Uloopi was the daughter of a serpant king and she married Arjuna while he was going on pilgrimage).
Uloopi told Babhruvahana thus: “O Babhruvahana! I am also your mother. My name is Uloopi. I am the daughter of Serpant King. Your father, Arjuna is a great warrior. His son, that is yours, shall never remain as a coward. Catch hold of the horse and fight with Arjuna and conquer him. Whoever wins, myself and your father feel happy.” said Uloopi.
“O mother Uloopi! what you said is correct. But fighting with own father does not appear to be proper. Hence I refrained from fighting with Arjuna. Otherwise, I will never turn back without fighting. Any how, being a mother, you permitted me tofight with my father. I never seek any other’s permission. I will fight with Arjuna and please my parents.” said Babhruvahana.
He saluted his mother, Uloopi and rushed against Arjuna with his army. First, Babhruvahana captured the horse then went against Arjuna. There happened a battle between father and son. Babhruvahana showered arrows on Arjuna. While cutting all the arrows in the middle, Arjuna was enjoying the archery skills of his son. First, Arjuna cut the flag post of Babhruvahana. Then Arjuna shot arrows throughout the body of Babhruvahana. But Babhruvahana shot one single arrow against Arjuna on account of which Arjuna fainted.
Appreciating the archery skills of his son, Arjuna again shot powerful arrows against Babhruvahana which were made futile by Babhruvahana. Ajuna felt jealous of his son’s archery skills. With great wrath, Arjuna shot numerous arrows throughout the body of Babhruvahana. Enraged with great wrath, Babhruvahana shot a single arrow piercing into the heart of Arjuna. Arjuna fell down. While falling down, Arjuna also shot numerous arrows against Babhruvahana, as a result of which, Babhruvahana also fell down. Both lost consciousness.
Having heard about the fall of both father and son, Uloopi rushed to the spot. Meanwhile, Chitrangada also arrived there. Beholding Uloopi, Chitrangada said thus:
“Look at them. You provoked Babhruvahana to fight with Arjuna, resulting in the fall of both. Are you not a dutiful wife? Dont you know about Dharma. On the basis of which Dharma you provoked this young boy against a warrior like Arjuna? How can this boy fight with a Arjuna? You are responsible for this. You have to make them to regain consciousness. It is your responsibility to bring back the life of Arjuna.” said Chitrangada.

Beholding Arjuna, Chitrangada lamented thus: “O Great warrior! You saved several lives. But you could not save yourself. You have come to me after a long lapse of time. Kindly open your eyes. You have to protect the Yaga Horse and follow it.” Chitrangada was lamenting as if Arjuna was dead.
Again beholding Uloopi, Chitangada said: “OUloopi! Arjuna is the husband for both of us. You made him to lose his life at the hands of my son. You have to bring back life to Arjuna. Otherwise, I will also follow my husband to heaven.” said Chitrangada.
Meanwhile, Babhruvahana regained consciousness. Beholding his lamenting mother, Chitrangada, Babhruvahana said: “O mother! I never saw you lamenting like this. I killed my father with my own hands. There is no expiation for my sin.” lamented Babhruvahana.
Then beholding Uloopi, Babruvahana said: “O my mother Uloopi! Only to please you, I fought with my father. Now he is lying dead. Are you now satisfied? O my mother! I killed my father. I have no expiation for my sin. I do not find mental piece throughout my life. Even after death, I will not get higher regions.” lamented Babruvahana.
Then Babhruvahana took a promise. “I cannot live in this world without my father. Hence I do Prayopavesa.” proclaimed Babhruvahana.
Till then, Uloopi kept quiet tightlipped. She smiled at Babhruvahana and Chitrangada. Then she closed her eyes and chanted a mantra. A divine diamond appeared in her hands.
Beholding Babhruvahana, Uloopi said: “O my son Babhruvahana! Are you mad? Or are all of you mad? Who is Arjuna? He is the son of Devendra. How can he die? Arjuna is a great warrior. Just to test your vigour and valour, I provoked you to fight with your father. You have fulfilled the desire of your father, Arjuna, to fight with you. You both are under delusion. Arjuna just fainted. Look at your father. He will wake up as if from sleep.” said Uloopi.
Uloopi gave that diamond to Babhruvana and asked him to keep it on the heart of Arjuna. Arjuna woke up. Looking at Babhruvahana, “Are you ok” asked Arjuna.
Babhruvahana bowed before Arjuna and said: “O my fahter! we are all happy.” said Babhruvahana.
Arjuna looked around and found his wives Chitrangada and Uloopi. “O my son, Babhruvahana! I am finding both pleasure and sorrow in your faces. What had happened? This is battle field. How your mother Chitrangada and Uloopi arrived here.” asked Arjuna.
Babruvahana showed Uloopi and kept quiet.
“O Uloopi! what made you to come over here. What had happened? Have Chitrangada or Babhruvahana misbehaved with you? ” asked Arjuna.
“O my husband Arjuna! none are at fault. How can I expect my sister Chitrangada and my son Babhruvahana misbehave with me. Kindly bear with me for a while. While you were fighting with Babhruvahana, you fell down and lost consciousness. All thought you are dead.
There is a reason for this. You kept Sikhandi before you and fought with Bhishma. Bhishma fell down on bed of arrows. Thus you attained great sin. Expiation is necessary for your sin.
One day while I was taking holy bath in river Ganga, Vasuvus also were taking bath in river Ganga. River Ganga, in human form, was talking with Vasuvus. Vasuvus told Ganga thus: “O mother Ganga! Bhishma is your son. He was one amongst us. Arjuna killed your son, Bhishma, keeping Sikhandi, before him. But Bhsihma dropped his bow and arrows. Then Arjuna shot numerous arrows throughout his body. Bhishma fell upon arrow bed. Arjuna attained wicked and cruel victory upon Bhishma. Hence we intend to curse Arjuna.” said Vasuvus. River Ganga accepted their proposal.
Upon hearing the above conversation, I proceeded to my father and told him what had happened. My father immediately met Vasuvus and requested them to save Arjuna. Vasuvus agreed to save Arjuna but on condition that Arjuna shall fight with his own son, Babhruvahana and be defeated. Then only his sin will vanish. My father conveyed the same to me. Meanwhile, you have come following Yaga Asva.
As I was waiting for opportunity, I have come down to Babhruvahana and instigated him to fight with you and defeat you. As per my wish, Babhruvahana fought with you and defeated you. You fell down unconscious. All of us except me thought that you are dead. With this, all your sins are vanished. With the power of this Naga Diamond, you regained consciousness. This is what had happened.” said Uloopi.
On hearing this, Arjuna felt very happy. Arjuna invited his son Babhruvahana, Chindrangada, Uloopi and others for the ensuing Asvamedha Yaga to be performed by Dharmaja on coming Chaitra Sudha Pournami.
Babhruvahana and Chitrangada invited Arjuna to visit the Palace and stay there for few days. Arjuned refused to enter city as he has to follow Yaga Asva. After taking leave from Babhruvahana, Chitrangada and Uloopi, Arjuna followed the Yaga Asva.
Then the horse entered Raja Griha kingdom. Megha Sandhi, grand son of Jarasandha was ruling Rajagriha. Meghasandhi captured the Horse and was ready to fight with Arjuna. As usual Arjuna conveyed the message of Dharmaja to Meghasandhi. But Meghasandhi treated the message as the weakness of Arjuna. Meghasandhi showered arrows upon Arjuna. Arjuna was defending himself from those arrows. Arjuna never tried to harm either Meghasandhi or his charioteer, as per the word of his brother, Dharmaja.
Meghasandhi struck Arjuna with sharp arrows throughout his body. Finding no other alternative, Arjuna first killed his charioteer and also the horses tied to the chariot. Then Arjuna cut the flag and destroyed the chariot. Meghasandhi jumped down and took his mace and attacked Arjuna. Even then Arjuna did not hit Meghasandhi but broke his mace. Meghasandhi stood before Arjuna unarmed.
“O Meghasandhi! As per the word of my brother, I did not intend to kill you. Hence you are standing alive. As per Kshatriya Dharma, you captured the horse and fought with me. It is enough. Be friendly with me.” advised Arjuna. Meghasandhi agreed for the proposal of Arjuna. Arjuna hugged Meghasandhi and extended the invitation to attend Asvamedha Yaga on the coming Chaitra Sudha Pournami and requested Meghasandhi to attend Yaga along with his relatives and friends.
Then the horse entered Chedi Kingdom which was being ruled by Sarabha son of Sisupala. At first Sarabha captured the horse but released it immediately and made a peace pact with Arjuna. Then the horse entered Tenkana, Kosala and Kasi kingdoms whose rulers were surrendered to Arjuna and accepted the invitation for Asvamedha Yaga.
Though the King of Dasarna Kingdom captured the horse and fought with Arjuna but later surrendered to Arjuna. Then the horse entered Nishadha Kingdom which was ruled by the son of Ekalavya. Son of Ekalavya opposed Arjuna and fought with him. In no time, he was surrendered to Arjuna.
Then the horse turned towards southern side and entered Poundra, Andhra, Dravida, Kerala and Karnataka areas. Arjuna fought with all the rulers of the resepctive kingdoms and defeated them and extended invitation of AsvamedhaYaga to all the rulers. After crossing Gokarna in Sourashtra area, the horse entered Dwaraka. On hearing the arrival of Arjuna, Yadavas extended a warm welcome to Arjuna.
Then the horse passed through the western coast and arrived at Panchala Kingdom and Gandhara Kingdom. Gandhara King was ruled by the son of Sakuni. Son of Sakuni captured the horse and fought with Arjuna. Arjuna conveyed the message of Dharmaja and advised him not to fight with him. But son of Sakuni never heed his words and was ready to fight. At first, son of Sakuni showered powerful arrows upon Arjuna. Arjuna cut the crown of the son of Sakuni instead of his head. Still he never became wiser. He continued to fight with Arjuna. But his forces fled away being afraid of Arjuna.
Having heard about the fight between Arjuna and son of Sakuni, his mother i.e, wife of Sakuni along with the ministers arrived at the battle field. She prayed Arjuna to save the life of his son. Arjuna stopped fighting and saluted the wife of Sakuni. Arjuna told the son of Sakuni thus:
“O Kumara! It is painful that you fought with me. I conveyed the message of Dharmaja and advised you not to fight with me. But you foolishly fought with me. You are the near relative of my Uncle Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. Hence I never intended to kill you. What is the use of fighting with me. Are we enemies?” said Arjuna. Then Arjuna extended the invitation of Dharmaja to son of Sakuni and his mother. Then Arjuna proceeded further.
As all the kingdoms are covered, the horse started its return journey to Hastinapuram. Dharmaja was being informed from time to time about the victorious tour of Arjuna.
Magha Sudha Poornima arrived. Dharmaja was sitting in the assembly. He sent for his brothers. He told Bhima thus: “O Bhimasena! your brother Arjuna is returning to Hastinapura with Yaga Asva, victoriously. We have to make arrangements for Asvamedha Yaga. Chaitra Sudha Pournami is fast approaching. Send invitations to all the kings, saints and other prominent persons. Similarly, make arrangements for construction of Yaga Sala. Make arrangements for construction of guest houses for the visitors according to their status. Make arrangements for their comfortable stay.” said Dharmaja.
Bhima immediately sent for engineers, architects and masons. A big Yaga Sala, several guest houses were constructed with god speed. Bhimasena sent Brahmins to extend invitations to all kings, sages and saints. Having received the invitations from Dharmaja, Kings from all sides and sages and saints from all places came down to Hastinapura to grace Asvamedha Yaga. Dharmaja made all sorts of arrangements to all the guests. Arrangements were made for their comfortable stay and food, according to their status. Though servants are there, Dharmaja personally supervised the arrangements without giving room for any complaint. The arrangements are such that whenever dining of one lakh people is completed, a trumpet blows and such trumpet was blowing constantly.
Dharmaja worshipped Balarama, Sri Krishna, Satyaki and other Yadava elders. Sri Krishna informed Dharmaja about the arrival of Arjuna.
Sri Krishna also said: “O Dharmaja! It appears Arjuna invited all Kings for Yaga. There may be some kings who were inimically disposed previously. Now they are coming on our invitation. Hence Arjuna informed us to make arrangements for their comfortable stay and sumptuous food, forgetting the past enmity.” said Krishna.
“O Krishna! I also heard about it. Arjuna extended invitation for all those who were defeated in great war. Besides that, Arjuna fought with Bhishma, Drona, Karna etc great warriors and defeated them. Again he has gone along with the horse to fight with those who obstruct the movement of horse. All these woes are caused to Arjuna only on account of me.What can I do?” Dharmaja felt unhappy.
Meanwhile, a messenger from Arjuna came there and informed Dharmaja that Arjuna arrived at the outskirts of Hastinapura and will meet Dharmaja next day. Next day, while Yajna Asva was walking in front of him, Arjuna entered the city of Hastinapura. The people of Hastinapura accorded warm welcome to Arjuna. Arjuna arrived at Yaga Saala. Dharmaja, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva,Krishna and others welcomed Arjuna. Meanwhile, Babhruvahana along with his mothers, Chitrangada and Uloopi arrived at Hastina. Arjuna introduced them to Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Kunti, Dharmaja and others and received their blessings. Then Chitrangada and Uloopi were introduced by Arjuna to Droupadi and Subhadra.
The auspicious day to commence Asvamedha Yaga arrived. Vyasa said: “O Dharmaja! This is a great yaga. You have earned sufficient wealth to perform that Yaga. Hence perform Asvamedha Yaga uninterruptedly. The holy bath at the end of Yaga vanishes all your sins. You will be blessed.” said Vyasa.
Under the guidance of Vyasa, Dharmaja took Yaga Deeksha. Ritviks lit the holy fire. While chanting Mantras, they were offering holy material and pouring ghee in Holy fire. Some were extracting Soma juice from Soma plants. Bhima was supervising catering section and supplying sumptuous food to all the guests. Even divine bodies were lurking from sky, how Yaga was going on.
The main Yajna vaatika was built with golden bricks, 18 lengths(18 inches each length) on each side. Yajna Vatika was built in eagle shape. Ritviks planted Oopa Stambhas (sacred poles made up of wood extracted from several trees). They are 21 in number. Besides that, several golden poles were erected as decorative pieces. Four legged creatures, 300 in number, were tied to those 21 Oopa Stambhas. To the main Oopa Stambha (main pole), Yajna Asva (the horse which was taken round all over the country) was tied.
During the Yajna, as a ritual, all the 300 four legged creatures were killed. Along with them several birds, fish etc also were killed. Now the time has come to kill the Yajna Asva (main horse). At that time Droupadi was standing by the side of Yajna Asva. The Horse which was taken round the country, was killed by ritviks. Different parts of the body of Yajna Asva were burnt in holy fire by Droupadi personally. While the body parts of Yajna Asva were burnt in holy fire, the smoke and smell emanated from holy fire was smelt by Pandavas and Droupadi. Ritviks, while chanting Vedic hymns, burnt the remaining parts of the body of Yajna Asva.
Dharmaja offered One crore thousand gold coins to Ritviks. The entire kingdom was given to Vyasa as Bhoodaana. Then Dharmaja said:
“O Vyasa! Ihave given away the entire land owned by me as charity. Nothing remains with me. I will go to forests and perform Tapassu.” said Dharmaja.
Vyasa told Dharmaja thus: “O Dharmaja! you have given me the entire earth as charity. What can I do with the earth? Kindly take back your land and compensate the same with equal value of gold.” said Vyasa.
Dharmaja did not agree to receive back the land given as charity. Then Vyasa insisted:
“O Dharmaja! You have given me the land as charity. Now it is my own property. I am not giving the land to you free of cost. I am selling the land to you. Pay me the consideration and take back the land.” said Vyasa.
Sri Krishna also supported the view of Vyasa. Dharmaja paid one crore of crore gold coins and take back the land. Then Vyasa distributed that wealth in equal shares to the Brahmins attended Asvamedha Yaga.

Besides that, Dharmaja also distributed all the gold utensils manufactured for the performance of Yaga were distributed to Brahmins. Then Dharmaja made charities, to Kshatriyas, Vysyas and Soodras and also other caste people, in abundance. All those who attended the Asvamedha Yaga returned home with greatest satisfaction. Veda Vyasa gave his share of gold to Kunti. Kunti in turn distributed that wealth to poor and needy.
O King Janamejaya! after completion of Asvamedha Yaga, Dharmaja along with his brothers and wives took holy bath and cleansed his body and mind. Dharmaja prostrated before Vyasa who conducted Asvamedha Yaga uninterruptedly. After blessing Dharmaja, Vyasa along with his students, went away.
After departure of Saint Vyasa, Dharmaja honoured all the kings attended the Yaga with gold, diamonds, pearls, ornaments, elephants, horses, ladies(as servants) etc. Dharmaja also honoured Babhruvahana and permitted him to leave for his kingdom. But Chitrangada and Uloopi opted to remain in Hastinapura to serve their husband, Arjuna.
Wife of Sisupala came down from Sindhu kingdom to witness the Yaga. Dharmaja also honoured her with greast respect. Dharmaja enthroned the grandson of Sisupala as King of Sindhu. Dharmaja also gave away the respecstive kingdoms to the heirs of the Kings who died in war. All have departed except Sri Krishna and Balarama, Satyaki and other Yadavas.

Dharmaja presented several diamonds, gold ornaments and other valuable items to Sri Krishna and others. Then Sri Krishna along with Balarama, Satyaki and others left for Dwaraka.” said Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
“O Saint Vaisampayana! You told me about Asvamedha Yaga in detail. But during the course of Yaga, was there any remarkable incident occurred. If so, kindly tell me.” asked Janamejaya. Vaisampayana told thus:
“O King Janamejaya! During the course of Asvamedha Yaga, on the concluding day, one mungooss (mungisa) entered the Yaga Saala. Half of its body was shining as Gold. Beholding the Yaga, that mungooss told the Ritviks:
“During this Asvamedha Yaga, King Dharmaja made several charities, gave presentations and served sumptuous food to all the invitees and was acclaimed by one and all. But all this has no match to what has been done by a brahmin called Saktuprastha.” said the mungooss.
All the Ritviks were astonished for the words of that mungooss. “Both human beings and divine bodies accepted the diligence and devotion bestowed by Dharmaja during the course of Asvamedhayaga and the manner in which it was conducted. What fault you have found during the Yaga.” asked Ritviks.
That mungooss said thus: “In Kurukshetra, there was a brahmin called Saktuprastha. He was having wife, son and daughter in law. They eke their livelihood by collecting grains fallen in the paddy fields after harvest. He has abandoned his desires, aggrandizement and anger. He was so soft.
Once there was a great famine. There were no rains. They could not collect grain from fields. In that situation, on one day, all the four members went to a field and with great difficulty collected some grain. They powdered it. After offering the same to God and after performing Sandhyavandanam etc., rituals, they sat together to consume the grain powder.
At that time, one guest came down to their house. The brahmin invited the guest and offered him Arghyam and Padyam. That brahmin gave away his part of grain powder to the guest for eating. The guest ate it but was not satisfied.
Then his wife said: “O my husband! please give my share of powder also to the guest and satisfy him.” said the wife. “O my wife! even birds bring food and feed their wife and children. How can I take the food from your mouth.” said Brahmin. “You are my husband. After marriage, husband is relation, friend, mother, father, teacher and God. When husband is exhausted, it is the duty of wife to help him. Hence I am helping you. Please give my share of food also to the guest.” said the wife. Accordingly, the brahim gave her share to the guest. The guest consumed it but was not satisfied. The brahmin was worrying for his inability to satisfy the guest.
Then his son offered his share of food to the guest. “O my son! though you are aged, you are still a boy for me. Generally, youngsters have more hunger. How can I take the food from your mouth” said father. “O father! you are aware that son is the replica of father. Is not your sorrw, my sorrow. As a son, it is my duty to eradicate your sorrows. Hence give away my share of food to the guest.” said the son. Accordingly, the brahmin gave the share of his son to the guest. The guest consumed it but was not satisfied.
Now it is the turn of the daughter-in- law to offer her share of food to the guest. “You have come as daughter in law to my house. You have shared our poverty also. Without proper nourishing food, your body deteriorated. Now we got some food. How can you give your share and suffer with hunger. I cannot see you suffering with hunger.” said brahmin. “O my father in law! You are my teacher. As long as I hold life in my body, I have to serve my teacher and help him in need. Hence I am giving my share. Kindly offer this to the guest and satisfy him.” said the daughter in law. Accordingly, the brahmin offered the share of his daughter in law to the guest.
The guest conumed it and satisfied. The guest said thus: “O brahmin! I am not an ordinary guest. I am Yama. I am very much satisfied for the virtuous behaviour of you and your family members. The humbleness, devotion, attention you and your family members have towards guests and elders is very much appreciable. Look at the sky. Even the divine bodies are watching from the sky. In heaven, all the sages and saints are waiting for your arrival. I invite you, your wife, son and daughter in law to heaven.” said Yama.
Yama continued to say: “O virtuous brahmin! hunger is worst than all. Hunger destroys our wisdom and discretion. Desire destroys kindness. Yourself, your wife, son and daughter in law conquered hunger and desire. You all worshipped guest and attained divinity. Having been acclaimed by your charitable quality, Lord Brahma invited you to Brahma Loka. In a shortwhile, a divine air craft will come to pick you up.
O virtuous brahmin! giving charity part of his wealth, and performing Yajnas and Yagas is not great. Giving charity without sparing anything for himself, is a real charity. It is greatest of all.” said Yama Dharma Raja.
Meanwhile, a divine air craft from Brahma Loka arrived there. Saktuprastha, his wife, son and daughter in law saluted Yama and stood before him. Yama asked them to board the divine air craft. Accordingly, Saktuprastha, his wife, son and daughter in law boarded the divine air craft and went to Brahma Loka.
I have clearly observed all these incidents from a hole in the adjacent wall. I found the water used for washing the feet of Yama, flowing there. I fell in the water and rolled. But only half of my body was wet with water. Miraculously half of my body became gold. From that day on wards, I have been going round all the places where great Yajnas, Yagas, charities are performed, so that the remaining half of my body becomes gold. Till now, it does not happen.
Having heard that Dharmaja is performing Asvamedha Yaga which is acclaimed by divine bodies, I have come here. But there is no use. My body remains as it is. I realised that the charity made by Saktuprastha by giving away what was acquired by him by collecting grain from harvested fileds is much more greater than the Asvamedha Yaga performed by Dharmaja and the charities made by him during the course of that Yaga. Then that mungoos went away of its own accord.
O King Janamejaya! this was the strange incident occurred during the course of Asvamedha Yaga performed by your grand father, Dharmaja.” said Vaisampayana.
Then Janamejaya said thus: “O Saint Vaisampayana! Kings are interested in performing Yajnas and yagas; saints are interested in performing Tapas; brahmins are interested in controlling their mind and sense organs. Hence, in the past, several kings performed several Yajnas and Yagas and attained higher lokas. Similarly, my grand father, Dharmaja also performed Asvamedha Yaga. He performed that Yaga with greatest faith and devotion which was acclaimed by Vyasa and other sages and saints. Dharmaja performed that Yaga as if it was performed by Devendra. In such circumstances, why that mungoos blamed that Yaga and censured it and heckled it. Is there any special reason. If so kindly tell me.” asked Janamejaya.
Vaisampayana said thus: “O King Janamejaya! as you said rightly, Asvamedha Yaga performed by Dharmaja got all such good qualities.But there is one thing to be remembered. In the Asvamedha Yaga, several creatures including the Yaga Asva were killed. Much violence occurred. In the eyes of Mungoos, the Tapo Yajna performed by that Brahmin was much better than the Asvamedha Yaga perfomed by Dharmaja with much violence and killing of animals and divine horse. With the power and glory of saatvika yajna performed by that Brahmin, half of its body was changed into gold. None can deny this. So also we cannot ignore the words of Mungoos.
In this connection, I tell you a story. In the past, Devendra intended to perform one Yajna. Several Ritviks, great saints, divine bodies attended that Yajna. They constructed huge platform for performing the Yajna. Sacred fires were lit. Several animals were procured for sacrifice.
All the saints objected for the violence and told Devendra: “O Devendra! is it necessary to kill all these animals for the sake of this Yajna. We can use three years old seeds as a supplement or substitute for animals. This was the Dharma followed in Krita Yuga. Kindly look at those animals. They are shedding tears out of fear of death. Be merciful towards those animals and leave them.” said those saints.
But Devendra did not agree for their proposal. All saints also vehemently resisted the violence during Yajna. But divine bodies supported Devendra and voted for violence. Deva Loka was divided into two.
In those days, there was a friend of Devendra. His name was Uparichara Vasuvu. That Vasuvu arrived there to witness the Yajna. Divine bodies and saints sought his advice as mediators. Vasu heard the arguments on both sides. As he was the friend of Devendra, Vasuvu decided in favour of Devendra and declared that violence is a must in Yajnas. As a result, Uparichara Vasuvu was consigned to hell. Hence, O Janamejaya! Yaga or Yajna without violence is best of all. There is no doubt about it. Besides that, that Brahmin who was eking his livelihood by collecting grains from paddy fields after harvest, has given away what all he got. Is it not an appreciable thing.” said saint Vaisampayana.
Having having those words, Janamejaya said: “O Saint! what you said is correct. I agree. His virtuous act is appreciable. Kindly elaborate the view that for purpose of charity, lawfully earned money only is eligible.”asked Janamejaya.
In reply, Vaisampayana said thus: “O King Janamejaya! in this connection, I tell you a story. In the past, Saint Agasthya intended to perform a Yaga to be continued for 12 years uninterruptedly. For that yaga, several Ritviks, experts in performing Yaga and saints have arrived. All preparations were being made for Yaga. But there were no rains. As a result, there were no crops, no food grains, no material for performing yaga. This is all on account of Indra. Everybody was eagerly watching how Agasthya performs the Yaga.
By that time Agasthya was in 12 years Deeksha. He was not inclined to touch even a single grain, earned unlawfully. To perform Yaga in virtuous manner, it should be rainy and cultivation shall start. Beholding this situation Agasthya told the Ritviks thus: “O saint! if Indra gives us water through rains, it is alright. Otherwise, I myself become Indra and rule the three regions. If that is not possible, I go round the three regions and collect surplus food grains and perform Yaga. I hear that in northern Kuru lands, there were plenty of food grains. I will send for food grains from northern kuru lands. It appears Indra is angry as I am performing Yajna only with seeds and not by animal sacrifice. Therefore, you need not worry.” said Agastya.
“O saint Agastya! you need not spend the power of your tapas for these paltry things. Why should you borrow food grains from others. We all bring our own material from our places. The Yaga will be performed uninterruptedly.” assured the sages and saints. Satisfied with the words of saints, Agasthya continued to perform Yajna.
Having heard about this, Indra was afraid. Immediately, he ordered the water bearing clounds to rain. Devendra, along with Brihaspati came down to Agasthya and prayed excuse. Agasthya invited Indra for the Yaga and honoured him. After receiving his share of Yajna (Havis), Indra and Brihaspati went back to heaven. Agashtya worshipped the Ritviks and other sages and saints who attended the yaga and made it successful.
Therefore, King Janamejaya! Yajnas and Yagas are to be performed only with the money earned, not out of illegal and unlawful means and also without violence and killing of animals. Such Yajna is a glorious Yajna.” said Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
King Janamejaya entertainred a doubt. “O Saint Vaisampayana! you told me that one Mungoos spoke in human language. That must be a great soul in its previous birth. Who was he or she? kindly tell me.” asked Janamejaya.
Vaisampayana said thus: “O King Janamejaya! Once Saint Jamadagni was performing his father’s annual ceremony. He secured cow milk and kept the pot in a corner of Ashram. “Krodha” (the Anger) in human form arrived there and broke the pot, as if it had accidentally happened. Beholding this , Jamadagni did not get angry. He smiled and tried to procure another pot of milk. Krodha appeared before him and said:
“O Saint Jamadagni! I heard that persons born in Bhrigu clan in which you were born are all filled with great wrath and anger. But you proved it futile. I am defeated before you. Kindly excuse me.” prayed Anger (Krodha).
“No no. You have not committed any wrong. Therefore there is no question of excusing you. If you feel any guilt in your mind, wipe it out. Now I am invoking my Pitaras. They may curse you. Leave this place.” said Jamadagni. Krodha went away.
Then Jamadagni invoked his Pitaras and performed the ceremony. Having come to know about this incident, Pitaras of Bhrigu grew angry. They cursed Jamadagni to take birth as Mungoos, for not cursing Krodha. Jamadagni prayed mercy. The ancestros told him the remedy.
“If you find fault with a great person in an open assembly about a great event, you get rid of this curse.” told those Pitaras. Accordingly, Saint Jamadagni was born as Mungoos. He found fault with the Asvamedha Yaga performed by Dharmaja and proved that Asvamedha Yaga was performed against all virtues and principles and got rid of his curse.” said Vaisampayana to Janamejaya.
MAHA BHARATA
ASVAMEDHA PARVA FOURTH CHAPTER COMPLETED. ASVAMEDHA PARVA COMPLETED.
OM TATSAT OM TATSAT OM TATSAT