54. Adi Parva 52. The Burning of the Khandava Forest

Agni then put forth his most energetic form, and got ready to consume the forest. Surrounding it on all sides with his seven flames, he began to consume the forest of Khandava, exhibiting his all-consuming form like the fire at the end of the Yuga. 

Surrounding that forest from all sides and roaring like the clouds, Agni made every creature residing there tremble in fear. That burning forest looked resplendent like Meru, the king of mountains, blazing with the rays of the sun that have fallen on it.

Krishna and Arjuna, riding in their cars and placing themselves on opposite sides of that forest, began a great slaughter of the creatures dwelling in Khandava. When they saw some creatures trying to escape, they rushed to that place to prevent them from escaping.

As the forest was burning, hundreds of thousands of living creatures, uttering frightful yells, began to run about in all directions. Some had some of their limbs burnt, some were scorched with excessive heat, and some ran about from fear. And some clasping their children and some their parents and brothers chose to die rather than escape after abandoning their beloved kin.

Many creatures rose upwards but soon fell whirling into the blazing fire below. Some rolled on the ground with wings, eyes, and feet scorched and burnt. These creatures died at those spots almost immediately.

The tanks and ponds within that forest, heated by the fire around, began to boil, causing the fishes and the tortoises in them to perish The spectre of the burning bodies of various animals looked as if fire itself had assumed many forms.

The birds that tried to fly away from that conflagration were pierced by Arjuna’s arrows or cut into pieces. Pierced all over by Arjuna's arrows, the birds dropped down into the burning forest, uttering loud cries. The yelling of the creatures struck by the arrows resembled the frightful uproar heard during the churning of the ocean (in days of yore).

The mighty flames of the blazing fire reaching the firmament, caused great anxiety to the celestials themselves. They went to their Chief Indra, the one with thousand eyes, the slayer of Asuras and the one who had performed hundred sacrifices, and said “O, lord of immortals, why does Agni burn these creatures below? Has the time come for the destruction of the world?”

Hearing this, Indra, who himself was witnessing the spectacle with concern, set out to protect the forest of Khandava. Covering the sky with masses of clouds, he commanded the clouds to shower on the burning forest. Those masses of clouds, commanded by Indra, began to pour rain on Khandava in heavy showers. But the showers were all dried up in the sky itself by the heat of the fire and could not, therefore, reach the fire at all!

Indra got angry with Agni, gathered huge masses of clouds and made them deliver a heavy  downpour. The showers falling on the fire caused a lot of smoke, which, together with flashes of lightning, presented a horrible sight.

Arjuna, using his powerful weapons, countered the shower of rain with the shower of his arrows. With the sky above that forest being covered by Arjuna’s arrows, no living creature was able to escape from the forest.

It so happened that Takshaka was not in the forest when it was burning, But his son Aswasena was there. He made great efforts to escape from the forest but could not find a way through Arjuna's arrows. His mother tried to save him by swallowing him. She swallowed his head and even while swallowing his tail,she rose up above the ground, trying to fly away.

Seeing her escape, Arjuna cut off her head using an arrow. Indra who was watching this, in an effort to save his friend’s son, created a violent wind that made Arjuna unconscious for a while. Using this brief time, Aswasena succeeded in escaping. Enraged by this deception, Arjuna cut every animal trying to escape, into several pieces.

Angered by Indra’s act, Arjuna tried to fight with him, by hurling his weapons in the sky. Indra countered these weapons by discharging heavy winds that assembled masses of clouds which gave rise to torrents of rains.

Arjuna then hurled a weapon called Vavavya to dispel the clouds. This weapon destroyed the clouds and dried up the rains. In a moment, the sky was cleared and the Sun appeared on the sky like a disc and in place of heavy winds, a cool breeze began to blow.

Agni, gladdened by these developments, blazed forth with more energy, assuming various forms, with his power increased by the fats of the animals burnt by the fire. 

Numerous birds of the Garuda tribe descended from the sky intending to attack Arjuna and Krishna with their thunder-like wings and sharp beaks and claws. A number of snakes also descended from above emitting poison.

Seeing the birds and snakes descending down, Arjuna cut them into pieces using arrows, steeped in the fire of his anger. The birds and snakes fell into the fire.

Others like Asuras, Gandharvas, Yakshas and Nagas also came, with terrifying cries, to fight Arjuna, Armed with machines emitting iron balls and bullets from their mouths and catapults that would propel huge stones and rockets, they began to attack Arjuna and Krishna. Arjuna cut off their heads using his powerful arrows. Krishna also attacked the Daityas and Danavas with his disk and killed them.

Then Indra, riding on his white elephant hurled his Vajrayuta, which would never go in vain, on Arjuna and Krishna. Other celestials also took up their weapons in their hands. Yama took up his mace, Kubera his spiked club, Varuna his noose, Skanda his long lance, the Aswini Devatas their resplendent plants, Dhatri his bow, Jaya his thick club, Tvashta a huge mountain, Surya a bright dart, Mrityu a battle-axe, Aryaman a bludgeon with sharp spikes, Mitra a discus and Pusha, Bagha and Savitr, bows.

Rudras, Vasus, Maruts, Viswedevas and Sadhyas and other celestials also took up their weapons. All of them charged towards Arjuna and Krishna.

Arjuna and Krishna, fearless and invincible in battle, seeing Indra and other celestials charging towards them, calmly waited, with bows in their hands. Skilled in battle, these two heroes assailed them with their own weapons and drove them away. The celestials ran away in fear and sought the protection of Indra. The sages who witnessed the battle from the skies were amazed by the feat of Arjuna and Krishna.

Indra caused a heavy shower of stones which were dispelled by Arjuna, using his arrows. Indra then tore up a large peak from the Mandara mountain and hurled it toward Arjuna. Arjuna cut it into a thousand pieces by his fire emitting arrows. 

The fall of the fragments of that mountain on the earth looked like the Sun, the Moon and the other planets falling on the earth after being displaced from their positions These fragments falling on the forest caused the death of numerous living creatures living in the forest.

The inhabitants of the forest of Khandava, the Danavas and Rakshasas and Nagas, wolves and bears and other wild animals, elephants, tigers, lions, manes, deer, buffaloes, various birds, and various other creatures, frightened at the falling stones  began to fly in all directions.

They saw the forest burning all around and Krishna and Arjuna also ready with their weapons. Frightened at the terrible sounds, those creatures lost their power of movement. They emitted a frightful roar.

Krishna hurled his large and fierce discus at the animal to hasten their death. The forest-dwellers including the Danavas and the Rakshasas, afflicted by that weapon, were cut into hundreds of pieces and fell unto the mouth of Agni. Mangled by Krishna's discus, the Asuras were besmeared with blood and fat and looked like evening clouds.

Krishna moved like death itself, slaying Pisachas and birds and Nagas and other creatures by thousands. The discus itself, repeatedly hurled from the hands of Krishna, came back to his hands after slaughtering many creatures. The face and form of Krishna - that soul of every created thing - became fierce to behold while he was thus employed in the slaughter of the Pisachas, Nagas and Rakshasas.

No one among the celestials, who had mustered there could vanquish in battle Krishna and Arjuna. When the celestials saw that they could not protect that forest from the might of Krishna and Arjuna by extinguishing that conflagration, they retired from the scene.

Then, Indra, beholding the celestials  retreat, applauded Krishna and Arjuna. A voice from the skies, addressing Indra, said, “Your friend Takshaka, that chief of snakes, has not been slain! Before the conflagration commenced in Khandava, he had  left for Kurukshetra. Know from my words, O Indra that Vasudeva and Arjuna are incapable of being vanquished in battle by any one! They are Nara and Narayana - those gods of ancient times, well known in heaven! You know what their energy and strength are. These best of old Rishis are unconquerable by any one in all the worlds! They deserve the most reverential worship of all the celestials and Asuras; of Yakshas and Rakshasas and Gandharvas, of human beings and Kinnaras and Nagas. Therefore,  it will be worthy of you and the celestials to go back to your abodes. The destruction of Khandava hath been ordained by Fate!”

Then the chief of the immortals, knowing these words to be true, gave up his anger and jealousy, and went back to heaven. The celestials followed their chief, along with their soldiers. Seeing the retreat of Indra and other celestials, the duo roared like lions.

After Indra had left the scene, these two heroes continued to assist in  the conflagration of the forest. No creature survived the onslaught of Arjuna. All of them fell into the  mouth of Agni. 

Gratified with large quantities of flesh, blood, and fat, Agni,  with his blazing  eyes, and flaming tongue and large mouth, drank that nectar-like stream of animal fat, became filled with joy. Gratified greatly, Agni derived much happiness.

An Asura by name Maya who was trying to escape from the fire was pursued by Krishna and Agni. Maya sought protection from Arjuna. Arjuna promised him that he being the brother of Namuchi (who was killed by Indra), he won’t be killed. Accordingly, Agni also spared him.

Agni burnt the forest for fifteen days  and only six of its dwellers were not killed in the fire. They were Aswasena, Maya and four birds called Sarangas.


Next: Adi Parva - 53 The Saranga Birds
Previous: Adi Parva - 51. Arjuna Agrees to Help Agni

53. Adi Parva 51. Arjuna Agrees to help Agni

Vaisampayana began to narrate the story of why Agni wanted to consume the Khandava forest.

There was a king by name Swetaki who was equal to Indra himself, in prowess and strength. No one on earth equaled him in sacrifices, charity, and intelligence.

Swetaki performed the five great sacrifices and many other sacrifices, his heart having always been set upon sacrifices, religious rites, and presenting gifts of all kinds to others.

Swetaki performed sacrifices for so many years that at one stage, the priests conducting the sacrifices had their eyes afflicted by the continued smoke. Having become very weak, they left the king, not willing to assist him in his sacrifices any more. The king managed to complete the sacrifices with the help of some other people.

After some time, the king wanted to perform another sacrifice which would take a hundred years. But he couldn’t get any priest to conduct this sacrifice, in spite of his beseeching them, offering them great wealth etc. 

The Brahmins told him, “O, king! Your sacrifices go on endlessly. By helping you in the sacrifices for such a long time, we have become fatigued. Give us leave. Go to Rudra. He will help you in conducting the sacrifice.”

Swetaki was angered by the Brahmins’ response. He went to the Kailasa mountain and began to meditate on Lord Siva. He performed rigorous penances for several months. Pleased by his austerity, Lord Siva appeared before him and offered to grant him any boon he would seek.

Swetaki said, “O God of gods, assist me in my sacrifice!"

Lord Siva said, “We do not ourselves assist at sacrifices. But since you have performed a rigorous penance, I will assist you in your sacrifice, on one condition. If you pour libations of butter into the fire for twelve years without intermission, leading the life of a Brahmachari, you will get what you want.”

Swetaki did what Lord Siva asked him to do for 12 years. After 12 years, he came back to Lord Siva. 

Lord Siva told him, “I have been gratified by your deed. But the duty of assisting in sacrifices properly belongs to the Brahmins. Therefore, I will not myself assist you in your sacrifice. There is an exalted Brahmin called Durvasa, who is a portion of my own self. He will assist you in your sacrifice. You may make preparations for the sacrifice.”

The king returned to the capital and collected everything for the sacrifice. He then came back to Lord Siva and told him, “O lord! I have made all the preparations for the sacrifice. Please let me start the sacrifice tomorrow."

Siva summoned Durvasa and and asked him to assist Swetaka in the sacrifice.

The sacrifice was conducted by the king with the help of Durvasa. 

After the sacrifice was successfully completed, the king presented huge gifts to the Brahmins who participated in the sacrifice. The king was praised by the Brahmins. He then returned to his palace. The citizens were also happy.

Since Swetaka spent so much of his life in conducting sacrifices, he was called Rajarishi (Royal Sage).

When the time came, Swetaka ascended to the Heaven.

Agni had drunk clarified butter for twelve years in Sweraka’s sacrifice.  Butter was poured into Agni's mouth in a continuous stream for 12 years. Having drunk so much butter, Agni became satiated and didn’t want  to consume butter again from the hand of anybody else in any other sacrifice.

Agni lost his color and became pale. He could not shine as before. He felt a loss of appetite. His energy levels came down. He was even afflicted by sickness.

Finding that his energy was gradually diminishing, Agni went to Brahma and told him, “O exalted one, Swetaki  has, by his sacrifice, gratified me to excess. Even now I am suffering from the surfeit of butter consumed by me. I have been steadily losing both my splendour and my strength. With your grace, I would like to regain my own permanent nature.”

Brahma said, “You have been afflicted by this sickness because you have consumed a continuous stream of butter poured into your month for twelve years! Don’t worry. The time for regaining your strength has come.

“Once, at the request of the gods, you had consumed the dreadful Khandava forest, the abode of the enemies of the gods. It has now become the home of numerous creatures. When you eat the fat of those creatures, you will regain your nature. So, consume that forest with its living population. You will then be cured of the malady afflicting you.”

Hearing these words of Brahma, Agni proceeded with great speed to Khandava forest. He blazed, assisted by Vayu, the Wind God. The creatures dwelling there, made great efforts to extinguish the fire. Elephants came by thousands, bringing water in their trunks and poured it on the fire. Thousands of snakes poured water through their hoods. All the other creatures living in the forest attempted to extinguish the fire through various means.

Agni tried to consume the forest seven times and it was extinguished all the seven times by the creatures living there. Agni became frustrated and angry. He went back to Brahma and narrated his experience to him.

Brahma said, “I see a way by which you may consume the forest of Khandava today in the very sight of Indra. Those old deities, Nara and Narayana, have become incarnate in the world to accomplish the business of the celestials. They are called Arjuna and Krishna. 

"They are now staying in the forest of Khandava. Solicit their help in consuming that forest. They will prevent the population of Khandava from escaping, and thwart Indra’s efforts to help them escape. You will thus be able to consume the forest even if it be protected by the celestials!”

Agni narrated these events to Arjuna and Krishna and requested their help.

Arjuna said, “I have the skills and the weapons to fight anyone and Krishna has the energy to defeat anyone. I have numerous excellent celestial weapons with which I can fight even many Indras holding the Vajrayuta but I have no bow suited to the strength of my arms, and capable of bearing the might I may put forth in battle. 

"Considering the swiftness of my hands, I also require arrows that must never be exhausted. My chariot also is scarcely able to bear load of arrows that I would desire to keep by me. I desire celestial white horses possessing the speed of the wind and a chariot possessing the splendour of the sun and the clatter of whose wheels should resemble the roar of the clouds. 

"Then, there is no weapon suited to Krishna's energy and with which he can slay Nagas and Pisachas. O, Agni, we are ready to do all that manliness and prowess can do. But, you need to provide us the adequate means."

After listening to Arjuna, Agni wanted to meet Varuna, the rain god who was residing in water, Varuna immediately appeared before Agni. Agni requested Varuna to give him the bow and quiver and the ape bannered chariot given to him by King Soma, using which Arjuna could fight Indra.

Varuna gave the bow, two inexhaustible quivers and a chariot furnished with celestial weapons and a banner bearing the image of an ape to Agni, as desired by him. The bow was the chief of all the weapons. It was always worshipped both by the celestials and the Gandharvas. The chariot was made by Viswakarma, the celestial architect, after performing an austere meditation.

The chariot had a splendour matching that of the Sun, making it difficult for people even to gaze at it. This was the chariot from which Lord Siva had fought and vanquished the Dhanavas.

Agni gave Krishna a discus with an iron pole attached to its center.

Arjuna, armed with the sword, and wearing  leather gloves over his palms, walked around that excellent car adorned with numerous flags. He bowed to the gods and ascended the chariot, like a virtuous man riding in the celestial car that would take him to heaven.

Arjuna took in his hands, the celestial bow called Gandiva created by Brahma, bowed to Krishna and strung the bow. Those who heard the sound made by Arjuna’s stringing of the bow quivered with fear. He then felt competent to perform the task. He told Krishna, “Oh, slayer of Madhu, using this weapon  one can vanquish  men, gods, Rakshasas, Pissachas, Daityas and Nagas.”

Varuna then gave Krishna a mace called Kaumodaki, capable of slaying every Daitya and producing, when hurled, a roar like that of the thunder.

Then Arjuna and Krishana, filled with joy, told Agni, "Having been furnished with weapons and a chariot, we will be able to fight all the Devas and Asuras together, let alone the Vajra-holding Indra, who wants to fight  for the sake of his friend Takshaka."

Arjuna said, “Oh,Agni! When Krishna moves on the battlefield with this discus in hand, there is nothing in the three worlds that he will not be able to consume by hurling this weapon. Having obtained the bow Gandiva and this couple of inexhaustible quivers I also am ready to conquer the three worlds. Therefore, you can now blaze forth through the forest as you like, surrounding this large forest on all  sides.”

Next: Adi Parva - 52. The Burning of Khandava Forest


Previous: Adi Parva - 50. Agni Seeks Arjuna's Help

52. Adi Parva - 50. Agni Seeks Arjuna's Help!

Oneday, Yudhishtira  told Krishna,“The summer days have come. Let us all go to the banks of Yamuna, enjoy ourselves there and return in the evening.”

Krishna readily agreed since he was also interested in sporting in water in the company of friends.

Accordingly, all of them went to the banks of Yamuna. Studded with a number of tall trees and high mansions, the place looked like the celestial city.

Yudhishtira had arranged for a variety of foods and drinks, floral wraths and perfumes to be brought there. Every one sported according to his pleasure. 

Many beautiful women entertained them, some sporting in the woods, some in the waters and some in the mansions. Some sang, some danced and some conversed with the men. The mansions and the woods reverberated with the charming music of flutes, guitars and kettle drums.

Yudhishtira, Arjuna, Draupadi and Subhadra  presented the women with gifts.

Arjuna and Krishna went to a charming place in the woods. They sat there and chatted about the past events and several other things. They were sitting there like the Aswinin Devatas (the divine twins). 

A Brahmin with a bright appearance, but clad in rags came near them and spoke to them.

“You two are like the two foremost heroes on the earth. I am a voracious eater. O, Partha, gratify me by giving me sufficient food.”

Arjuna and Krishna asked him what kind of food he desired.

The Brahmin replied, “I don’t desire ordinary food. I am Agni (the God of fire). So, give me the food that will suit me. 

"I have been  desiring to consume this Kandava forest. But this forest is protected by Indra, for the sake of protecting his friend Takshaka, the snake, who has been living here. Because of him, many other creatures are also getting protected. Whenever I try to consume this forest, Indra pours water on me from the clouds and foils my attempt.

“I have come to you since both of you are skilled in weapons. I pray to you to prevent the showers from descending and any of the creatures from escaping, when I begin to consume this forest!”

When Vaisampayana was narrating this, Janamejaya asked him, “Why did Agni desire to consume the Khandava  forest, which was the abode of  various living creatures? There should have been a reason for this. Please enlighten me on this.”

Vaisampayana answered his question by narrating a story.

Next: Adi Parva - 51. Arjuna Agrees to HelpAgni

Previous: Adi Parva - 49. The Pandavas Live in Peace and Happiness

51. Adiparva 49. The Pandavas live in peace and happiness

After Arjuna’s return to Indraprasta, Krishna along with Balarama, his other relatives and men like Akrura, Anadhrishti, Udhdhava, Vrishapati, Satyaka, Salyaki, Kritavarma, Satwata, Pradhyumna, Samva, Nisatha, Sanku, Charudeshna, Jhilli, Viprithu, Sarana and Gada, came to see him.

Yudhishtira sent Nakula and Sahadeva to receive Krishna and his men, who were given a majestic reception. Krishna, gratified by the warm reception, saluted Yudhishtira and Bhima.

Krishna presented many gifts to Arjuna and Subhadra.

The Yadavas and the Kurus spent a lot of time together.

In course of time, Subhadra gave birth to a son who came to be called Abhimanyu. Yudhishtira celebrated the birth of Abhimanyu by gifting cows and gold coins to Brahmins and other people. 

Krishna performed the appropriate rites ordained to be performed by the maternal uncle.

As Abhimanyu grew up, he became conversant with the Vedas. He learnt the art of weapons from his father. Like his father, Abhimanyu became proficient both in the use of weapons and in the knowledge of scriptures and religious rites. Arjuna was very happy at his son’s progress.

Draupadi gave birth to five sons through each of her husbands. Yudhishtira’s son was called Prativindhya, since he was strong like the Vindhya mountains. Bhima’s son was called Sutasoma, since he was born after Bhima had performed a thousand Soma sacrifices. Since Arjuna’s son was born after Arjuna had returned from his exile after performing many feats, he was called Srutakarma. Nakula named his son Satanika after a royal sage in the illustrious race of Kuru. Since Sahadeva’s son was born  under the constellation Vahni-daivata (Krittika), he was called Srutasena (Kartikeya).

The sons of Draupadi were born at the interval of one year each. All of them became renowned and very much attached to one another. Their rites of infancy such as Chudakarana (first shave of the head) and Upanayana (investiture with the sacred threads) were performed by Sage Dhaumya . 

All of them, after studying the Vedas, acquired the knowledge of the weapons from Arjuna. The Pandavas were elated when  their sons, who were equal in glory to the sons of the celestials, became accomplished warriors.

The Pandavas brought many kings under their rule. People were happy under Yudhishtira’s rule. Yudhishtira studied the Vedas, performed sacrifices and protected the people. He combined  virtue, pleasure and profit judiciously.

Because of Yudhishtirs’s influence, other kings on the earth also became aligned to virtue and they became inclined towards meditation on the Supreme spirit.

Assisted by his four brothers, Yudhishtira shone like a sacrifice assisted by the four Vedas. Many Brahmins waited upon Yudhishtira like the celestial waiting upon the Lord of the creation. People were delighted to look at Yudhishtira, who was like the full moon without a stain.

People developed an affection towards Yudhishtira who never uttered anything that was improper, untrue, unbearable or disagreeable. Yudhishtira, endowed with  great energy, and aided by his brothers took care of his people and lived happily with no enemy to disturb his peace.

Next: Adi Parva-50. Agni seeks Arjuna's help
Previous: Adi Parva-48. Arjuna Weds Subhadra

50. Adi Parva - 48. Arjuna Weds Subhadra

The grand festival of the Vrishni and Andhaka tribes was celebrated on the Raivataka mountain. The region around the hill was adorned with gems and artificial trees of various hues. There was music and dance.

The festival was attended by Balarama and his wife Revathi, the Vrishni king Ugrasena,Raukmineya, Shamva, Akrura, Sarana, Gada, Vabhru, Nisatha, Charudeshna,Prithu, Viprithu, Satyaka, Satyaki, Bhangakara, Maharava,  Hardikya, Uddhava and many others with their wives.

Krishna and Arjuna went around witnessing the activities related to the festival. Arjuna looked at Subhadra*, daughter of Vasudeva and instantly felt a liking for. Observing this, Krishna smiled and said, “How is it that the heart of one wandering in the forests is agitated by the god of desire? She is my sister and the favourite daughter of my father. Tell me if your heart is fixed on her. I will speak to my father.”

Arjuna said, “If your sister becomes my wife, I can achieve anything that is achievable by man. Tell me what I should do to win her hand in marriage.”

Krishna said, “We don’t know her mind. In the case of Kshatriyas who are brave, a forcible abduction of a girl for marrying her is approved. So, carry away my beautiful sister by force. Who knows what she may do at a Swayamvara (self-choice)?”

Then Krishna and Arjuna sent the message to Yudhishthira at Indraprastha through a speedy messenger, informing him of everything. Yudhishthira, on hearing this, conveyed his assent to the proposal.

Arjuna informed Krishna about the assent of Yudhishthira. Learning that Subhadra had gone the Raivataka hill, Arjuna, after taking the consent and advice of Krishna, rode in a golden chariot driven by the horses towards the Raivataka hill.

Subhadra, after worshipping deities in the temple and seeking the blessings of the Brahmins there, was returning to Dwaraka. Arjuna met her on the way, rushed towards her and forcibly took her into his custody. He then proceeded towards Indraprastha.

The armed attendants of Subhadra, seeing that she was seized and taken away, rushed to Dwaraka to inform the developments to the Yadava court called Sudharma. The chief of the court blew his conch and summoned the armed men.

Stirred by the sound of the blowing of the conch, the Bhojas, the Vrishnis, and the Andhakas began to pour in from all sides. They left whatever they were doing and rushed to the court. The chief apprised them of the developments.

The proud Vrishni heroes, on hearing of what Arjuna had done wanted to fight Arjuna with their weapons.

Balarama, tall and while like the peak of the Kailasa mountain, restrained them saying, “Let us hear what Krishna has to say and then act as per his wishes.” Other people endorsed his views with loud cries of approval.

Balarama told Krishna, “Krishna, why are you silent? It was for your sake that Arjuna was welcomed and honoured by us. But it appears that he didn’t deserve our respect. Who will break a plate after dining from it? Arjuna, disregarding us and even you, has outraged Subhadra, desiring his own death. He has put his foot on the crown of my head. I will not put up with this. Shall I eradicate the entire Kuru race?”

Everyone approved of what Balarama said and roared like clouds.

Krishna said, “Arjuna has not insulted us by his action. He has rather enhanced our respect. He considers Swayamvara (self choice of the bride) a dubious practice. Who will accept a girl as a gift as if she were an animal? Which man on earth will sell his offspring (daughter)? I think, Arjuna, considering these flaws in other methods, chose to carry the bride by force, as per established practice.

“The alliance is proper. Subhadra  is a renowned girl. Arjuna is a man of renown. Who won’t like to have Arjuna, born in the race of Bharata and Shantanu and who is the grandson of Kuntibhoja, as a friend? In all the worlds, no one except Mahadeva can vanquish Arjuna. 

"Arjuna’s prowess as a warrior is well known. Who can be equal to him? It is my opinion that we should approach him cheerfully and bring him back. If he goes to his city after vanquishing us, our fame will suffer. There is no disgrace in reconciliation.”

After listening to Krishna’s words, they acted as per his advice. They went after Arjuna, stopped him and persuaded him to return to Dwaraka.

Arjuna lived in Dwaraka for one year. His last year of exile was spent in Pushkara.

After the period of exile was over, Arjuna returned to Indraprastha. After paying obeisance to Yudhishtira and other elders, Arjuna went to the inner apartments to meet Draupadi. Draupadi was angry with him and said, “Why are you here? Go where the daughter of the Yadava race is! A second tie always relaxes the first one put on a pile of wood.”

Arjuna asked for Draupadi’s forgiveness and pacified her. He then sent Subhadra into the inner apartments, after getting her dressed as a cowherd woman.

After entering the inner apartments, Subhadra paid obeisance to Kunti who gave her blessings to Subhadra. 

Subhadra then went to Draupadi and told her, “I am your maid.” Draupadi embraced her and said,“May your husband be without any enemies!” Subhadra said, “So be it!”

After that, the Pandavas lived happily. Kunti was also happy.

*Subhadra was conceived in the womb of Kamsa's sister Vasudeva's wife and Devaki. She was the Maya of Vishnu.When Kamsa tried to kill her when she came out of Devaka's womb, she disappeared and entered the womb of Rohini, another wife of Vasudeva. She was named Bhadra and became Subhadra with the auspicious prefix Su added to her name. Perhaps the name Bhadra Kali was deived from her name, since Kali (Durga, Uma or Parvati) is considered Vishnu's sister.

49. Arjuna's Pilgrimage

When Arjuna left for the forest, Brahmins well versed in the Vedas, persons skilled in music, ascetics, people who recite Puranas, narrators of sacred stories, devotees leading celibate lives, Vanaprasthas (People inclined to live the later part of their lives in forests), and various other kinds of people walked behind him for some distance.

Arjuna walked like Indra followed by the Maruts. As he walked, he witnessed many picturesque scenes. After arriving at the source of the river Ganga, he decided to settle down there. The Brahmins who followed him to the forest also settled down there. While staying there, Arjuna, inspired by the Brahmins, performed a number of Agnihotris (fire sacrifices). As a result of these sacrifices, that place itself became extremely beautiful.

Once, after making offerings to his ancestors, by standing in the Ganga, Arjuna was about to move from the river to the shore to perform the rites sitting before the fire. At that time, he was pulled from under the water by Ulupi, the daughter of the Nagas. 

He was carried by her to the palace of the Naga king Kauravya. Arjuna found that there was a sacrificial fire ignited for him. He performed the rites in that fire. Agni was pleased by Arjuna’s performance of the rites by pouring libations into the fire.

After performing the rites, Arjuna smiled at Ulupi and told her, “Oh, handsome girl, what a rash thing have you done by dragging me here! Whose country is this and whose daughter are you?”

Ulupi replied, “I am the daughter of Kauravya, the Naga king born in the line of Airavata. Looking at you perform ablutions in the river, I was smitten by love. I am unmarried. Gratify me by giving yourself to me.”

Arjuna said, “As commanded by my elder brother Yudhishtira, I am undergoing a vow of celibacy for twelve years. I am not free to do what I please. But I am still willing to make you happy. Tell me how I can make you happy without violating my vow and the truth.”

"Ulupi said, “I know why you were asked to undergo celibacy. Your exile is only for the sake of Draupadi. Your virtue will not suffer by acceding to my solicitation. Oh, man of large eyes, it is one’s duty to relieve the distressed. Your virtue will not suffer any diminution by pleasing me. On the other hand, you will earn great merit by saving my life. So, yield yourself to me. It is the opinion of the wise that a man should accept a woman that woos him. I will kill myself if you don’t accede to my request. Earn great merit by saving my life. I seek your shelter. Gratify my wish by yielding to me."

Arjuna fulfilled her desire. After spending the night in the palace, he returned to the originating point of the Ganga in the morning, accompanied by Ulupi. 

Ulupi then took leave of Arjuna and returned to her palace. She gave him a boon that he would be invincible in water. “Every amphibious creature will be vanquished by you,” she said.

Arjuna narrated everything to the Brahmins who were staying with him. He then visited different parts of the Himalayas like Agastyavata, Vasishta’s peak, the peak of Bhrigu etc. He performed various rites at these places and donated many houses and cows to the Brahmins. 

Arjuna then went to a sacred asylum called Hiranyavindu and performed his ablutions there.

He then descended from the Himalayas and journeyed towards the East. The Brahmins followed him.

Arjuna went to then forest of Naimisha (Naimisharanya,) where the rivers Utpalini, the Nanda, the Apara Nanda, the Kausiki, Gaya and Ganga were flowing. He purified himself by bathing in those sacred rivers. 

Arjuna also visited the holy places in Vanga and Kalinga and bathed himself in all the holy waters in those regions. The Brahmins took leave of Arjuna when he entered Kalinga.  

Arjuna, accompanied by a few attendants, went to many regions, visiting several holy places and palaces. He saw the Mahendra mountain on his way. 

He then went to Manipura. He walked along the seashore and reached the palace of King Chitravahana.

Chitravahana had a beautiful daughter by name Chitrangada. Arjuna happened to look at her and instantly developed a desire to possess her. He went to the king and requested him to give his daughter in marriage to him. 

The king asked Arjuna, “Who are you and who are your parents?”

Arjuna said, “I am Arjuna, the son of Pandu and Kunti.”

The king told Arjuna, “In our race, there was a king by name Prabhanjana. He had no children. He performed a penance meditating on Lord Siva. Lord Siva granted him a boon that each successive descendant of his race would have only one child. Each of my ancestors had a son but I have a daughter. 

"However, I look upon my daughter as my son. If you marry her, one of the sons born to her through you will be the perpetuator of my race. If you agree to this, you can marry her.”

Arjuna agreed to this and married Chitrangada. He lived with her in the city for 3 years. After she gave birth to a son, Arjuna took leave of her and began to wander again.

Arjuna then went to the South and travelled along the shores of the southern ocean. He came across five regions in which ascetics lived. But he found that they had shunned the five sacred waters in that region. 

Of these five, Agastya, Saubadra and Pauloma were considered holy while Karandhma was considered propitious for performing Aswameta Yaga (horse sacrifice) and Bharadwaja, a washer of sins.

Arjuna asked the ascetics why they were shunning the five sacred waters. The ascetics said that they were avoiding those sacred waters because those waters were inhabited by crocodiles that would take away the people who bathe in those waters.

Hearing this, Arjuna, though dissuaded by the ascetics, decided to explore those waters. Perhaps, he remembered the boon by Ulupi that he would be invincible in water). He first went to Saubhadra and plunged into the water. A large crocodile seized his leg. He dragged it to the shore. Once the crocodile was brought to the shore, it transformed itself into a beautiful woman.

When Arjuna asked her who she was, she replied, “Oh, strong armed one, I am an Apsara by name Varga. I was dear to Kubera. I and my four companions were once going to the abode of Kubera. On the way, we saw a Brahmin of handsome appearance and rigid vows meditating. We tried to lure him by singing and dancing. He was not lured by us. He became angry and cursed us to become crocodiles and range the waters for hundred years.

“Distressed by his curse, we sought his forgiveness for trying to lure him with our beauty and distract him from his meditation. Moved by our propitiation, the Brahmin said, 'The word hundred normally indicates eternity. But the word hundred used by me may mean a limited period of hundred years and not eternity. You will be crocodiles for a limited period of hundred years, seizing and taking away people. At the end of hundred years, an exalted individual will drag you all from water to the land. Then you will go back to your original forms. The sacred waters in which I will assign you to live will, after you are delivered by that individual, become known as Nari-tirthas (or sacred waters connected with the sufferings and liberation of women). These waters will become sacred, having the power to wash away sins.'

“We saluted the Brahmin and left him. We then came across Narada who asked us about our plight. When we narrated our story to him, he said, ‘In the low lands adjoining the southern ocean, there are five regions of sacred water.  Go there immediately. Arjuna, the son of Pandu will deliver you.’ Oh, hero, as per the sage’s words, you  have freed me from my curse. Please free my four friends also.”

Arjuna then freed the other four women also by pulling them out of the sacred waters in which they were living.

After giving leave to the five Apsaras, Arjuna became desirous of seeing Chitrangada one more time. He then proceeded to the city of Manipura. He saw Chitrangada and his son Vabhruvahana, who was installed on the throne. Arjuna then left for Gokarna.

Arjuna visited many sacred waters and holy places on the shores of the western ocean. When he came to a place called Prabhasa, Krishna, learning about his arrival there went to that place to meet his friend.

After the two friends had embraced each other and exchanged pleasantries, Krishna asked Arjuna, “Why are you  wandering over the earth, visiting the sacred waters and other holy places?"

Arjuna narrated the happenings to Krishna. Hearing this, Krishna said, “This is as it should be.”

The two friends then went to the Raivataka mountain to spend some days there. Before they arrived at Raivataka, Krishna had arranged for food and entertainment shows. However, Arjuna  politely dismissed the singers and dancers and retired to bed.  Before going to sleep, he described to Krishna the holy places and sacred waters visited by him.

Arjuna then set out to Dwaraka, the capital of the Yadava kingdom. The citizens of Dwaraka thronged to see the son of Kunti. He stayed there in the company of Krishna, for many days.

48. Arjuna Goes Into Exile

As requested by Yudhishtira, Narada narrated the story of Sunda and Upasunda in more detail.

Sunda and Upasaunda were the sons of Nikumbha, a descendant of Hiranyakasipu. .

They were always together and each said and did only things that were agreeable to the other. They were like one person living in two bodies.

They had a desire to subjugate the three worlds. They went to the Vindhya mountains and performed  austere penance.

Pleased by their penance, Brahma appeared before the brothers and offered to grant them any boon they would seek.  

Sunda and Upasaunda, after paying obeisance to Brahma, asked him, “Oh, lord. Grant us great physical strength, knowledge of all weapons, powers of illusion, and the power to assume any form at will. Also grant us immortality.”

Brahma said, “I will grant you everything you have asked for except immortality. Since you have undergone this severity with a selfish intent of conquering the three worlds, I cannot confer immortality on you. Choose the form of death you want.”

Sunda and Upasunda said, “Oh, lord, we should be incapable of being killed by anyone or anything in this universe except by each other!”

Brahma granted them what they asked for and vanished.

The brothers then returned to their kingdom. After enjoying themselves for a while, the brothers decided to pursue their desire to conquer the three worlds.

They first went to the celestial world and conquered the Devas, the Yakshas and other celestial tribes. The celestials left their abodes and sought refuge in the region of Brahma.

After conquering the Deva loka, Sunda and Upasaunda invaded the Netherlands, the land of the Nagas and conquered it also.

Seized by a desire to conquer the rest of the world also, the brothers summoned the soldiers and told them, “Brahmins and royal sages increase the strength and prosperity of the celestials through their offerings in rites and sacrifices. Therefore, they are the enemies of the Asuras. So, we should slaughter them and obliterate them from the face of the earth.”

Accordingly, the brothers and their army set out in different directions and began to kill people who were performing sacrifices and the Brahmins assisting them. They also quelled the sacrificial fires by pouring water on them.

Sacrifices, religious rites, festivities and studies ceased. Buying and selling activities also stopped. Agriculture was neglected and cattle were no longer tended. 

The celestial sages, the Siddhas and other ascetics possessing  the attributes of tranquility and self-restraint, moved by the plight of the universe, went to Brahma.

They narrated to Brahma all the misdeeds of the Asura brothers. After listening to them, Brahma contemplated for a moment. He then summoned the celestial architect Viswakarma.

When Viswakarma appeared before him, Brahma asked him to create a woman with captivating beauty. 

Viswakarma created a celestial woman of extraordinary beauty. She was a mass of gems, with a beauty  unrivaled by the women of the three worlds. 

Since she was created with minute quantities of every gem, Brahma gave her the name Tilottama (meaning, minute particles of the best.)

Brahma told her “Oh, Tilottama, go to the Asuras, Sunda and Upasunda, tempt them with your captivating beauty and conduct yourself in such a way that they will quarrel between themselves about who should possess you.”

The Asura brothers, having conquered the three worlds, had nothing more to do. They were living in happiness, enjoying themselves in all possible ways.

One day, the brothers were in the Vindhyas, sitting at a place and witnessing the dances of some handsome women.  

At that time, Tilottama, attired in a single piece of red silk that exposed all her charm, came along, plucking wild flowers on her way. 

The brothers were stunned by her extraordinary beauty. They left their seats and went to her. Each of the two sought the girl for himself.

Sunda seized the girl by her right hand. He told his brother “She is my wife and you have to respect her.”

Upasunda responded saying ,”She is my wife and therefore your sister-in-law”

Each of them repeatedly said, “She is mine, not yours.” Each claimed that he was the first to sight her.

Soon, they started attacking each other with their maces. 

Eventually, both of them fell on the ground, their bodies bathed in blood, like two suns dislodged from the firmament.

Brahma came there along with the celestials. He applauded Tilottama for her feat and granted her a boon that nobody would be able to look at her for a long time. He restored the three worlds to Indra and then returned to his abode.

Narada concluded saying that the two brothers, ever united and inspired by the same purpose, killed each other for the sake of Tilottama. He advised the Pandavas to work out an arrangement to ensure that they won’t quarrel on account of Draupadi.

Following Narada’s advice, the Pandavas, after some discussion among themselves, framed a rule that if any of the four saw Draupadi when she was with the fifth one, that person would retire into the forests for 12 years and spend his time observing the vow of celibacy. 

The Pandavas agreed to this arrangement in the presence of Narada. Narada then left the place. 

The Pandavas observed this rule strictly and consequently eliminated the scope for any dispute among them on account of Draupadi.

The Pandavas were living in happiness and glory. They brought many kings under their control, using their prowess and conquering them. 

The Pandavas were happy with Draupadi and she was also happy with them.

After some time, an incident occurred in their country. Some robbers took away the cattle of a Brahmin. The Brahmin was angered by the robbery. He came to the palace and lamented aloud blaming the Pandavas for his loss.

He said, “Oh, Pandavas. Cattle are being taken away from me by the wicked robbers.The sacrificial butter of the Brahmins is being taken away by the crows.The jackal invades the empty cave of a lion. The wise people have said that a king who takes one sixth of the produce of the lands of his subjects, but fails to protect them is the most sinful person in the world.”

Hearing the lament of the Brahmin, Arjuna came out to console him. The Brahmin urged Arjuna to come to his place, pursue and catch the robber and punish him. 

Since Yudhishtira was sitting with Draupadi in the room where weapons were stored, Arjuna could not enter that room to get his weapon and accompany the Brahmin.

With the Brahmin repeatedly pleading with Arjuna to come with him, Arjuna decided that he should uphold righteousness by going to the rescue of the Brahmin even if he had to suffer the punishment of being in exile for 12 years for entering the room when Yudhishtiira and Draupadi were inside.

Arjuna entered the room, took his bow and arrows and accompanied the Brahmin. He pursued the robbers, caught them, attacked them with his arrows and forced them to return the cattle to the Brahmin. His act earned praise from every one.

After returning to the palace, Arjuna went to Yudhishtira and told him, “Give me leave to go in exile for 12 years for having seen you with Draupadi, in violation of the vow we have undertaken.”

Grieved by Arjuna’s words, Yudhishtira said, “Arjuna, I was not displeased by your entering my chamber when I was sitting with Draupadi. The younger brother may enter the room when the elder brother has been sitting with his wife. It becomes an offense only when the elder brother does it.Your virtue has not suffered any erosion. So, please give up your proposal.”

Arjuna said, “You have told me that quibbling is not permitted in the discharge of duty. I cannot waver from truth. Please permit me to go.”

Obtaining Yudhishtira’s permission, Arjuna went to the forest, to live there for 12 years.