The Greatest Indian Epic - Mahabharath

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Originally Posted by nilavupriyan

how come parasuram and krishna be in same era?..

confusing..isnt parasuram an avatar of vishnu..

or the saint has the name of lord parasurama?

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True Nilavupriyare

The same Parasurama ( the 6th avatar of Sri Vishnu ) was present even during Ram avatar & also Krishna avatar .

Parasurama meets Ram while Ram was coming back to Ayodhya after his marriage. There will be couple of exchanges before Parasurama realizes who Rama actually is & goes away after admiring him…


Parasurama surfaces in Mahabarath at various stages :

1.First when he fights with Bheeshma upon request from Amba

2.Teaches Karna believing that he is not a Kshatriya

3.Curses Karna upon realizing that he uttered a falsehood

4.Teaches Drona all the warfare including the divya astras. This happens when Parasurama was donating all his accumulation . When Drona met him, he had only the knowledge of warfare & hence he offered. Drona also learnt the art in the process.

Each one of the above 4 has a lengthy story behind it !

But one thing, Parasurama & Krishna never met eye to eye I think

Nakeeran, I have a query. Gita says that whenever there is a fall in righteousness, God takes an avatar ("Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya.."). If Parasuram was indeed an avatar of Vishnu living through Rama's and Krishna's period, there must have been a huge fall in morals and ethics during these two periods, to warrant the presence of two avatars at the same time. Am I right? Or is there another reason for their simultaneous presence?

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Originally Posted by kannannn

Nakeeran, I have a query. Gita says that whenever there is a fall in righteousness, God takes an avatar ("Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya.."). If Parasuram was indeed an avatar of Vishnu living through Rama's and Krishna's period, there must have been a huge fall in morals and ethics during these two periods, to warrant the presence of two avatars at the same time. Am I right? Or is there another reason for their simultaneous presence?

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Kannan....

Let me give a brief of what was Sri Parasurama's original objective -

He was born on earth to end the oppressive rule of the Kshatriyas, who had become dominant and were not only dominating the other castes but were increasingly becoming a threat to the Gods.

MahaVishnu was born as the son of Jamadagni, a pious sage

After fulfilling his mission , that of decimating the uncontrollable Kshatriyas, Parasurama lived the life of a hermit virtually .

I think the significance of Parasurama avatar ends here itself though Parasurama plays a very little role in Ramayanam.

The role of Parasurama in Mahabarath has been listed by me in my previous post.

You will realize now that Parasurama didnt play any major role in the following avatars of Vishnu .

The active roles played by Ram - that of eliminating a big group of asuras &

Krishna - another huge list like Kamsa, Jarasandha , Sisupala & the Kauravas etc

Parasurama didnt play any major role IMO.

Another interesting aspect of this avatar - Parasuram is immortal while Ram & Krishna died human deaths to free the God to return to His heaven !

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Originally Posted by kannannn

Nakeeran, I have a query. Gita says that whenever there is a fall in righteousness, God takes an avatar ("Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya.."). If Parasuram was indeed an avatar of Vishnu living through Rama's and Krishna's period, there must have been a huge fall in morals and ethics during these two periods, to warrant the presence of two avatars at the same time. Am I right? Or is there another reason for their simultaneous presence?

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I have read an explanation for this query in Rajaji's "Sakkaravarthi thirumagan"

He says that the PURPOSE OR THE DIVINE NATURE ASSOCIATED WITH A PARTICULAR AVATAR VANISHES THE MOMENT its purpose is fulfilled.

That is why Parasurama after having fulfilled his goal, becomes a common Saint / human being.

He also says that even in Ramayana, the DIVINE nature and BAGAVAN'S WORK vanishes the moment the goal of that avatar is fulfilled.

He goes to explain further that.. It is because of this only Rama tests Sita, then again runs into relationship troubles, fights with his own sons etc (He says he becomes Rama - the human being here and not BAGAVAAN)

:D

BTW.. These are comments by Rajaji.. Forgive if it is not clear :D

...
...Uniqueness of Parasurama Awathara

Thanks dear friends... You all have beautifully analysed and made the topic QUITE INTERESTING to think further...

...especially Nakkeeran has very well detailed about Parasurama.

And a few more to add...

Out of 24 Awatharas of Vishnu, only 10 is considered important...

...and even out of those 10... some are named AMSA AWATHARAS, ....

... taken up for certain Specific Time-relevant purposes only...

... one of which is Parasurama ... which is the only Awathara... far Unique comparatively...

... UNLIKE ALL OTHER AWATHARAS.... including Rama and Krishna...

... PARASURAMA ONLY continues to be a CHIRANJEEVI... IMMORTAL with Eternal Life and Existence.

When Geetha says as the Gods words... "Whenever the degree of Dharma, Righteousness declines beyond the tolerable limit... I take birth on Earth, time to time (Reincarnation)... to set it right"...

But God felt... one Awathara as CONCURRENTLY Inevitable for Three Vital purposes ...

(a) To set right the Imbalance immediately ... confined to certain aspects only.

(b) To pose a constant Threat to the Enemies of Dharma... by just existence similar to the Police Guards and Frontier Military-forces.

(c) For Psychological-support to Humanity as a Guard...similar to Fire-fighting Squad on CONSTANT ALERT...instilling Confidence for the Public.

Thus, after completing His main mission on the first two objectives...He chose to exist in disguise... by creating a piece of land for Himself... which is the present Kerala State, where the people worship him with highest reverence, compared to other states.

And so the whole India, including the Central ministers... identify Kerala... as the GOD'S LAND.

His main Missionary Objectives ...

(1) Recognition and Regards for the Father in every Family... whose words must be sincerely followed by the Family-members, he being the Head of the Family. Inculcation of such an Ideal and healthy spirit alone, can develop into a Discipline to obey the commands of the Social- Leader as well as the Ruler of the land.

(2) Kings are considered as the Representatives of God, committed to GOVERN the part of land assigned for... as his duty...

.. and the Kingdom is NOT THE KING'S PERSONAL RIGHT or Property ...

...Nor an Exclusive prevelege for his ENJOYMENT alone... IGNORING THE PEOPLE.
...

Thanks Nakeeran, Selva and Sudhaama for the explanations :D. I have certain other doubts, but will save it for later. Let me not interfere with flow of Nakeeran's recount of the war.

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Originally Posted by selvakumar

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Originally Posted by kannannn

Nakeeran, I have a query. Gita says that whenever there is a fall in righteousness, God takes an avatar ("Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya.."). If Parasuram was indeed an avatar of Vishnu living through Rama's and Krishna's period, there must have been a huge fall in morals and ethics during these two periods, to warrant the presence of two avatars at the same time. Am I right? Or is there another reason for their simultaneous presence?

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I have read an explanation for this query in Rajaji's "Sakkaravarthi thirumagan"

He says that the PURPOSE OR THE DIVINE NATURE ASSOCIATED WITH A PARTICULAR AVATAR VANISHES THE MOMENT its purpose is fulfilled.

That is why Parasurama after having fulfilled his goal, becomes a common Saint / human being.

He also says that even in Ramayana, the DIVINE nature and BAGAVAN'S WORK vanishes the moment the goal of that avatar is fulfilled.

He goes to explain further that.. It is because of this only Rama tests Sita, then again runs into relationship troubles, fights with his own sons etc (He says he becomes Rama - the human being here and not BAGAVAAN)

:D

BTW.. These are comments by Rajaji.. Forgive if it is not clear :D

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thanks for the reply everyone!

selva's reply(rajaji's)is more convincing...

i accept that rama and krishna had their stoppage time in theirera...but did parasuramar avatar live as human being after his goal fulfilled...because as a human being how did he live for eras..only as a devine power he can continue to live this much period!

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Originally Posted by nilavupriyan

selva's reply(rajaji's)is more convincing...

i accept that rama and krishna had their stoppage time in theirera...but did parasuramar avatar live as human being after his goal fulfilled...because as a human being how did he live for eras..only as a devine power he can continue to live this much period!

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Dear Nilavupriyan,

Did you read my posting?...UNIQUE PARASURAMA AWATHARA.

You are welcome to ask questions based on my posting there.

Rajaji used to raise several disputable and Controversial points like the above here ...

.. and subsequently, either of his own accord or after series of oppositions and debate with the Scholars, he used to change his inferences.

So Rajaji's own version... a SURMISE...or Personal NOTION...need not be accepted as authentic... nor FINAL.

...even though Rajaji is one of the Great Intellectuals of India.

For example, he changed his conclusion on the controversial Rama of Uthara-Ramayana...

... after the intervention and Convincing Answers from the Scholars.
...

read it sudhaama sir/madam?!thank u..convincing really!

:D

...

DUPLICACY ... Deleted.

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Originally Posted by nilavupriyan

read it sudhaama sir/madam?!thank u..convincing really! :D

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Dear Nilavupriyan,

I am NOT AMMA... But My name here is SUDHAAMA ( Su+Dhaama)... another name of KUCHELA

kannannn wrote:

//Nakeeran, I have a query. Gita says that whenever there is a fall in righteousness, God takes an avatar ("Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya.."). If Parasuram was indeed an avatar of Vishnu living through Rama's and Krishna's period, there must have been a huge fall in morals and ethics during these two periods, to warrant the presence of two avatars at the same time. Am I right? Or is there another reason for their simultaneous presence?//

Further to my earlier posting: UNIQUENESS OF PARASURAMA AWATHARA ...

Both these Awatharas were Co-ordinatory ... of independant approach to carry out a particular mission each of its own.

Contrary to Krishna-awathara, whose Sayings and Morals are EVER APPLICABLE to the posterity of Humanity...

.... Parasurama being an Amsa-Awathara... .. took up certain TIME- RELEVANT Factors only.... as I had detailed before.

Balarama also is another concurrent Awathara during Mahabharatha... whose approach was far more different...

...sometimes totally Contradictory to His own other Awathara by name Krishna...

...and practically, He was more in favour of Kauravas...Duryodana's side...while Krishna was supporting the opponents, Pandavas.

Many reasonable Questions and Doubts on the actions and approach of Krishna... were raised by Balarama., and their debate on Situations of Dharma-Sangatam (Dilemma)... renders abundant and palpable clarifications for us.

Same Vishnu of Two awatharas ...OPPOSING EACH OTHER.!...Concurrently.!!!.???

Thus One and the Same Person... in the Guise of THREE on the Action- Stage.!

We get an opportunity to get clarified on many intricate and imperceptible Justifications and Decree based on Righteousness..the Ultimate GOD'S LAW....which Humans are bound to adopt in cases of such or similar Dilemmaa...Dharma-Sangatam.. in our lives.

But in spite all such endeavour by God...Nothing Substantial could be achieved upto His satisfaction, commensurate with the extent and degree of His Total God- might... towards His Children, the Human-beings.

So He stopped taking further awatharas after Krishna... but directed His Devotees to complete the implementation of His Objectives...

So the continuation of His task was taken up by the Great Acharyas and Devotees like, Sankara, Ramanuja, Krishna-Chaithanya, Alwars, Tukaram , Meera...

... all of them had to quote Mahabharatha.... to simplify the Reasoning of Dharma, Righteousness....

...applicable under Complicate Situations and Dilemma...probable in cases of future lives too.

...Since such predicaments are quite possible.. in Kaliyuga, the last Era..

... when the Animals, Vicious Creatures and Criminals too of previous births... take the Advanced Birth as Humans... bestowed with highest degree of Opportunities with Wisdom and Soul...

... although they may be UNQUALIFIED for....!

...because of GOD'S MERCY towards His Creations who became Stagnant... even after several Rebirths ..

...thus UNDULY continuing as Sub-standard Lives or as the Worst Criminals too in Kaliyuga,

...the last Opportunity.!... for Uplift and Emancipation. !!!
...

Mr. Sudhama

This precisely is the reason why your active presence & Mr. Badri’s is needed – clarifying with perfect & rationale reasoning on various intricate & tricky issues & questions .

You will face more such questions from us . Pl continue to guide & enlighten us .

Thanks once again for a detailed explanation on Nilavu’s query.


Yes, Parasurama’s avatar was one which gave the highest respect to parents . In fact THAHDHAI SOLMIKKA MANDHIRAMILLAI is a sentence which can be a permanent tag of both Parasurama & Rama !

Parasurama , as per the legend, was asked by his Father to axe his Mother for a momentary lapse in her virtues . But I believe, the same Parasurama, as soon as he axed his mother requested Jamadagni to restore the life of her again !


Back to Mahabaratha war now :

Dirudhirashtra, wished to have an online account of the entire war. Sanjaya, his trusted assistant was given divine vision to give full description of the war .

So , even Vyasa gives the details of the war through the vision & words of Sanjaya !!

And finally, the war starts .

Now a question from Dirudhirashtra :

Who struck first ?? The Kauravas or the Pandavas ??

From now Sanjaya takes over :

Dhritarashtra said, 'When the divisions of both my side and the foe were thus arrayed, who struck first, the Kurus or the Pandavas?'
Sanjaya said, "Hearing the command of his (elder) brother, your son Dussasana advanced with his troops, with Bhishma at their head, and the Pandavas also advanced with cheerful hearts, desiring battle with Bhishma, having Bhimasena at their head.

Then shouts, and clamorous uproars and the noise of the blare of cow-horns, and the sound of drums and cymbals and tabors, arose in both armies.

And the warriors of the foe rushed against us, and we also (rushed) against them with loud shouts. And the uproar (caused by this rush) was deafening.

The vast hosts of the Pandavas and the Dhartarashtras, in that awfully murderous encounter shook in consequence of that uproar of conches and cymbals, like forests shaken by the wind.

And the din made by those hosts teeming with kings, elephants, and steeds, rushing against one another in that evil hour, was as loud as that of oceans agitated by the tempest. And when that din, loud and causing the hair to stand on end, arose, the mighty-armed Bhimasena began to roar like a bull. And those roars of Bhimasena rose above the clamour of conches and drums, the grunts of elephants, and the leonine shouts of the combatants. Indeed, the shouts of Bhimasena transcended the noise made by the thousands of chargers neighing in (both) the armies. And hearing those shouts of Bhimasena who was roaring like the clouds, shouts that resembled thunder, thy warriors were filled with fear. And at those roars of the hero, the steeds and elephants all ejected urine and excreta like other animals at the roar of the lion. And roaring like a deep mass of clouds, and assuming an awful form, that hero frightened thy sons and fell upon them. Thereupon the brothers, your sons Duryodhana, and Durmukha and Dussaha, and that mighty car-warrior Dussasana, and Durmarshana, O king, and Vivingsati, and Chitrasena, and the great car-warrior Vikarna and also Purumitra, and Jaya, and Bhoja, and the valorous son of Somadatta, shaking their splendid bows like masses of clouds exhibiting the lightning's flashes, and taking out (of their quivers) long arrows resembling snakes that have just cast off their sloughs, surrounded that mighty bowman rushing (towards them) covering him with flights of arrows like the clouds shrouding the sun. And the (five) sons of Draupadi, and the mighty car-warrior Saubhadra, and Nakula, and Sahadeva, and Dhrishtadyumna of Prishata's race, rushed against (those) Dhartarashtras, tearing them with whetted shafts like summits of mountains with the impetuous bolts of heaven. And in that first encounter characterised by the awful twang of bow-strings and their flapping against the leathern fences (of the warriors) no combatant, either on thy side or that of the foe, turned back.
And, O bull of Bharata's race, I beheld the lightness of hand of the disciples of Drona (in particular), who, shooting innumerable arrows, O king, always succeeded in hitting the mark. And the twang of sounding bowstrings ceased not for a moment, and the blazing arrows shot through (the air) like meteors (falling) from the firmament. And all the other kings, O Bharata, stood like (silent) spectators witnessing that interesting and awful encounter of kinsmen. And then those mighty car-warriors, with wrath excited and remembering the injuries sustained at one another's hands, strove in battle, O king, challenging one another. And the two armies of the Kurus and the Pandavas, teeming with elephants, steeds and cars, looked exceedingly beautiful on the field of battle like painted figures on a canvas. And then the (other) kings all took up their bows. And the Sun himself was shrouded by the dust raised by the combatants. And they fell upon one another, at the heads of their (respective) troops, at the command of thy son. And the loud uproar made by the elephants and the chargers of those kings rushing to the combat, mingled with the leonine shouts of the combatants and the din made by the blare of conches and the sounds of drums. And the uproar of that ocean having arrows for its crocodiles, bows for its snakes, swords for its tortoises, and the forward leaps of the warriors for its tempest, resembled the din made by the (actual) ocean when agitated.

And kings in thousands, commanded by Yudhishthira, with their (respective) troops fell upon the ranks of thy son. And the encounter between the combatants of the two hosts was fierce in the extreme. And no difference could be perceived between the combatants of our side or that of the foe, while battling, or retreating in broken array or rallying again to the fight.
In that terrific and awful battle, thy father (Bhishma) shone, transcending that countless host.


Day 1 continues.............

Day 1 continues :

On the forenoon of that awful day, the terrible battle that mangled the bodies of (so many) kings commenced. And the loud shouts, resembling leonine roars of the Kurus and the Srinjayas, both desirous of victory in battle, made both the welkin and the earth resound therewith. And a tumultuous uproar was heard mingled with the flaps of leathern fences and the blare of conches. And many were the leonine roars that rose there of men shouting against one another. The sound of bowstrings stretched by (hands cased in) fences, the heavy tread of infantry, the furious neigh of chargers, the falling of sticks and iron hooks (on the beads of elephants), the clash of weapons, the jingle of bells of elephants rushing against one another, and the clatter of cars resembling the roar of clouds, mingled together, produced a loud uproar making one's hair stand on end. And all the Kuru warriors, reckless of their very lives and with cruel intentions, rushed, with standards upraised, against the Pandavas. And Santanu's son himself, taking up a terrible bow that resembled the God of Death, rushed, on the field of battle, against Dhananjaya. And Arjuna also, endued with great energy, taking up the bow Gandiva celebrated overall the world, rushed, on the field of battle, against Ganga's son. And both those tigers among the Kurus became desirous of slaying each other. The mighty son of Ganga however, piercing in battle the son of Pritha could not make him waver. Even Arjuna also could not make Bhishma waver in battle.

And bowman Satyaki rushed against Kritavarman. And the battle between these two was fierce in the extreme and made the hair (of onlookers) stand on end. And Satyaki afflicted Kritavarman, and Kritavarman afflicted Satyaki, with loud shouts and each weakened the other. And pierced all over with arrows those mighty warriors shone like two blossoming Kinsukas in spring adorned with flowers.

The prince charm Abhimanyu battled with Vrihadvala. Soon, however, in that encounter, the ruler of Kosala cut off the standard and overthrew the charioteer of Subhadra's son. The son of Subhadra then upon the overthrow of his charioteer, was filled with wrath and pierced Vrihadvala, With nine shafts, and with a couple of sharp arrows that grinder of foes also cut off (Vrihadvala's) standard, and with one (more) cut off one of the protectors of his car-wheels and with the other his charioteer. And those chastisers of foes continued to weaken each other with sharp arrows.

Bhimasena struggled in battle with Duryodhana, proud and inflated, who had injured (the sons of Pandu). Both of those foremost (princes) among the Kurus, are tigers among men and mighty car-warriors. And they covered each other, on the field of battle, with their arrowy showers. And beholding those high-souled and accomplished warriors conversant with all modes of warfare, all creatures were filled with amazement of Bharata.
Dussasana, rushing against car-warrior Nakula, pierced him with many sharp arrows capable of penetrating into the very vitals. The son of Madri, then, laughing the while, cut off, with sharp arrows (of his), adversary's standard and bow, and then he struck him with five and twenty small-headed arrows. In that fierce encounter the steeds of Nakula and cut off his standard.
Durmukha rushing against Sahadeva battling in that terrific encounter, pierced him with a shower of arrows. The heroic Sahadeva then, in that fearful battle, overthrew Durmukha's charioteer with an arrow of great sharpness. Both of them, irrepressible in fight, approaching each other in combat, and each attacking the other and desirous of warding off the other's attack, began to strike terror into each other with terrible shafts.

Day 1 continues ............... :D

Day 1 continues :

On the forenoon of that awful day, the terrible battle that mangled the bodies of (so many) kings commenced. And the loud shouts, resembling leonine roars of the Kurus and the Srinjayas, both desirous of victory in battle, made both the welkin and the earth resound therewith. And a tumultuous uproar was heard mingled with the flaps of leathern fences and the blare of conches. And many were the leonine roars that rose there of men shouting against one another. The sound of bowstrings stretched by (hands cased in) fences, the heavy tread of infantry, the furious neigh of chargers, the falling of sticks and iron hooks (on the beads of elephants), the clash of weapons, the jingle of bells of elephants rushing against one another, and the clatter of cars resembling the roar of clouds, mingled together, produced a loud uproar making one's hair stand on end. And all the Kuru warriors, reckless of their very lives and with cruel intentions, rushed, with standards upraised, against the Pandavas. And Santanu's son himself, taking up a terrible bow that resembled the God of Death, rushed, on the field of battle, against Dhananjaya. And Arjuna also, endued with great energy, taking up the bow Gandiva celebrated overall the world, rushed, on the field of battle, against Ganga's son. And both those tigers among the Kurus became desirous of slaying each other. The mighty son of Ganga however, piercing in battle the son of Pritha could not make him waver. Even Arjuna also could not make Bhishma waver in battle.

And bowman Satyaki rushed against Kritavarman. And the battle between these two was fierce in the extreme and made the hair (of onlookers) stand on end. And Satyaki afflicted Kritavarman, and Kritavarman afflicted Satyaki, with loud shouts and each weakened the other. And pierced all over with arrows those mighty warriors shone like two blossoming Kinsukas in spring adorned with flowers.

The prince charm Abhimanyu battled with Vrihadvala. Soon, however, in that encounter, the ruler of Kosala cut off the standard and overthrew the charioteer of Subhadra's son. The son of Subhadra then upon the overthrow of his charioteer, was filled with wrath and pierced Vrihadvala, With nine shafts, and with a couple of sharp arrows that grinder of foes also cut off (Vrihadvala's) standard, and with one (more) cut off one of the protectors of his car-wheels and with the other his charioteer. And those chastisers of foes continued to weaken each other with sharp arrows.

Bhimasena struggled in battle with Duryodhana, proud and inflated, who had injured (the sons of Pandu). Both of those foremost (princes) among the Kurus, are tigers among men and mighty car-warriors. And they covered each other, on the field of battle, with their arrowy showers. And beholding those high-souled and accomplished warriors conversant with all modes of warfare, all creatures were filled with amazement of Bharata.
Dussasana, rushing against car-warrior Nakula, pierced him with many sharp arrows capable of penetrating into the very vitals. The son of Madri, then, laughing the while, cut off, with sharp arrows (of his), adversary's standard and bow, and then he struck him with five and twenty small-headed arrows. In that fierce encounter the steeds of Nakula and cut off his standard.
Durmukha rushing against Sahadeva battling in that terrific encounter, pierced him with a shower of arrows. The heroic Sahadeva then, in that fearful battle, overthrew Durmukha's charioteer with an arrow of great sharpness. Both of them, irrepressible in fight, approaching each other in combat, and each attacking the other and desirous of warding off the other's attack, began to strike terror into each other with terrible shafts.

Day 1 continues ............... :D

Day 1 continues :

On the forenoon of that awful day, the terrible battle that mangled the bodies of (so many) kings commenced. And the loud shouts, resembling leonine roars of the Kurus and the Srinjayas, both desirous of victory in battle, made both the welkin and the earth resound therewith. And a tumultuous uproar was heard mingled with the flaps of leathern fences and the blare of conches. And many were the leonine roars that rose there of men shouting against one another. The sound of bowstrings stretched by (hands cased in) fences, the heavy tread of infantry, the furious neigh of chargers, the falling of sticks and iron hooks (on the beads of elephants), the clash of weapons, the jingle of bells of elephants rushing against one another, and the clatter of cars resembling the roar of clouds, mingled together, produced a loud uproar making one's hair stand on end. And all the Kuru warriors, reckless of their very lives and with cruel intentions, rushed, with standards upraised, against the Pandavas. And Santanu's son himself, taking up a terrible bow that resembled the God of Death, rushed, on the field of battle, against Dhananjaya. And Arjuna also, endued with great energy, taking up the bow Gandiva celebrated overall the world, rushed, on the field of battle, against Ganga's son. And both those tigers among the Kurus became desirous of slaying each other. The mighty son of Ganga however, piercing in battle the son of Pritha could not make him waver. Even Arjuna also could not make Bhishma waver in battle.

And bowman Satyaki rushed against Kritavarman. And the battle between these two was fierce in the extreme and made the hair (of onlookers) stand on end. And Satyaki afflicted Kritavarman, and Kritavarman afflicted Satyaki, with loud shouts and each weakened the other. And pierced all over with arrows those mighty warriors shone like two blossoming Kinsukas in spring adorned with flowers.

The prince charm Abhimanyu battled with Vrihadvala. Soon, however, in that encounter, the ruler of Kosala cut off the standard and overthrew the charioteer of Subhadra's son. The son of Subhadra then upon the overthrow of his charioteer, was filled with wrath and pierced Vrihadvala, With nine shafts, and with a couple of sharp arrows that grinder of foes also cut off (Vrihadvala's) standard, and with one (more) cut off one of the protectors of his car-wheels and with the other his charioteer. And those chastisers of foes continued to weaken each other with sharp arrows.

Bhimasena struggled in battle with Duryodhana, proud and inflated, who had injured (the sons of Pandu). Both of those foremost (princes) among the Kurus, are tigers among men and mighty car-warriors. And they covered each other, on the field of battle, with their arrowy showers. And beholding those high-souled and accomplished warriors conversant with all modes of warfare, all creatures were filled with amazement of Bharata.
Dussasana, rushing against car-warrior Nakula, pierced him with many sharp arrows capable of penetrating into the very vitals. The son of Madri, then, laughing the while, cut off, with sharp arrows (of his), adversary's standard and bow, and then he struck him with five and twenty small-headed arrows. In that fierce encounter the steeds of Nakula and cut off his standard.
Durmukha rushing against Sahadeva battling in that terrific encounter, pierced him with a shower of arrows. The heroic Sahadeva then, in that fearful battle, overthrew Durmukha's charioteer with an arrow of great sharpness. Both of them, irrepressible in fight, approaching each other in combat, and each attacking the other and desirous of warding off the other's attack, began to strike terror into each other with terrible shafts.

Day 1 continues ............... :D

quote: Nakeeran

// Mr. Sudhama ...This precisely is the reason why your active presence & Mr. Badri’s is needed – clarifying with perfect & rationale reasoning on various intricate & tricky issues & questions .

You will face more such questions from us . Pl continue to guide & enlighten us //

Thanks my dear Nakkeera....

Yes, I am with you. Will take active part here...as long as you all wish.

// Parasurama’s avatar was one which gave the highest respect to parents . In fact THAHDHAI SOLMIKKA MANDHIRAMILLAI is a sentence which can be a permanent tag of both Parasurama & Rama !

Parasurama , as per the legend, was asked by his Father to axe his Mother for a momentary lapse in her virtues . But I believe, the same Parasurama, as soon as he axed his mother requested Jamadagni to restore the life of her again ! //

Yes Yes... You are TOTALLY CORRECT

Your NARRATIVE PICTURISATION of the Battle-field is quite Unique and LIVELY.. unusual and uncommon anywhere else...

...especially with so much of analytical minute detail of the warfare ...

Quite INTERESTING... Please carry on.
...

Day 1 continues .........

YUDHISHTIRA faced the ruler of the Madras ( Name not known ) . The chief of the Madras then in his very sight cut off in twain Yudhishthira's bow. Thereupon the son of Kunti, throwing aside that broken bow, took up another that was stronger and capable of imparting a greater velocity. The king then, with straight arrows, covered the ruler of the Madras, and in great wrath said, 'wait, wait'.
DHRISHTADYUMNA faced DRONA. ( this was a much awaited battle as the son of Durupadha was destined to kill Drona as per the Yaga which he performed earlier after he was defeated by Drona through Arjuna earlier ) And Drona, then, in great wrath, cut off in that encounter the hard bow of the prince of Panchala that was capable of always taking the lives of foes. And at the same time he shot in that conflict a terrible arrow that was like a second rod of Death. And the arrow shot penetrated the body of the prince. Taking up then another bow and fourteen arrows, the son of Drupada pierced Drona in that encounter. And enraged with each other, they battled on fiercely.
SANKHA encountered SOMADATTA'S son who was equally impetuous in battle and addressed him, saying 'wait, wait'. and then pierced his right arm in that combat. And thereupon the son of Somadatta struck Sankha on the shoulders. And the battle that ensued between those two proud heroes, soon became as terrible as a combat between the gods and the Asuras.
DHRISHTAKETU was pitted against VALHIKA who roared like a lion weakened Dhrishtaketu with innumerable arrows. The king of the Chedis, however, exceedingly provoked, quickly pierced Valhika in that encounter with nine arrows. Like an infuriate elephant against an infuriate elephant, in that combat they roared against each other repeatedly, both exceedingly enraged. And they encountered each other with great wrath and looked like the planets Angaraka and Sukra.

GHATOTKACHA ( the Rakshasha son of Bheema ) encountered the Rakshasa ALAMVUSHA & pierced that infuriate and powerful Rakshasa with ninety keen-edged shafts. And Alamvusha also in that combat pierced the mighty son of Bhimasena in many places with straight arrows .Mangled with arrows they shone in that encounter.

SIKHANDI , Durupadha’s son rushed against Drona's son, ASWATTHAMAN, . Aswathama, a highly skilled warrior , deeply pierced the angry Sikhandi with a keen-edged shaft, caused him to tremble, Sikhandin also, smote Drona's son with a sharp-whetted shaft of excellent temper. And they continued in that encounter to strike each other with various kinds of arrows.

BHAGADATTA , the second oldest warrior after Bhishma faced VIRATA, the commander of a large division, rushed impetuously and then commenced (their) combat. Virata, exceedingly provoked, poured on Bhagadatta an arrowy shower like,the clouds showering rain on the mountain breast. But Bhagadatta, speedily enveloped Virata in that encounter (with arrows) like the clouds enveloping the risen sun.

KRIPA, the son of Saradwat, rushed against VRIHADKSHATRA, the ruler of the Kaikeyas. And Kripa, enveloped him with a shower of arrows. Vrihadkshatra also shrouded the infuriate son of Gautama with an arrowy downpour. And those warriors, then, having slain each other's steeds and cut off each other's bows, were both deprived of their cars. And exceedingly enraged, they then approached each other for fighting with their swords. And the combat which then took place between them was terrible in aspect and unparalleled.

DRUPADA, faced JAYADRATHA, Sindhu Naresh . who cheerfully waiting (for battle). The ruler of the Sindhus pierced Drupada in that combat with three shafts, and Drupada pierced him in return. And the battle that took place between them was terrible and fierce, and productive of satisfaction in the hearts of all the

The virtuous VIKARNA, THE BEST OF THE KAURAVAS faced SUTASOMA and the combat between them commenced. Vikarna, however, although he pierced Sutasoma with many arrows, failed to make him waver. Neither could Sutasoma make Vikarna waver. And that appeared wonderful .

SUSARMAN ( WHO LATER WAS USED AS A SUICIDE SQUAD TO DIVERT ARJUNA , THE DAY WHEN HE WAS TARGETTING JAYATHRADHA ) , pitched against CHEKITANA , rushed in exceeding wrath for the sake of the Pandavas. And Susarman also, in that encounter checked the advance of that mighty car-warrior Chekitana with plentiful shower of arrows. And Chekitana also, greatly provoked, showered on Susarman, in that terrible conflict, a shower of arrows like a mighty mass of clouds showerng rain on a mountain .

SAKUNI, endued against PRATIVINDHYA ,the son of Yudhishthira, in exceeding wrath, mangled Suvala's son in that combat, with sharp arrows, like Maghavat (mangling) a Danava. And Sakuni also, in that fierce conflict, pierced Prativindhya in return and mangled that warrior of great intelligence with straight arrows.

SRUTAKARMAN faced SUDAKSHINA , the ruler of the Kamvojas. Sudakshina, piercing the bow of the son of Sahadeva, failed to make him waver. Thereupon Srutakarman, exceedingly provoked, weakened the king of kambojas with innumerable arrows and mangled him in every part of his body.

IRAVAN, battled against SRUTAYUSH. The powerful son of Arjuna, then slaying the steeds of his adversary, set up a loud roar, and thereupon, All the warriors who saw the feat praised him greatly. And Srutasena also, exceedingly provoked, slew in that conflict the steeds of Falguni's son with a powerful mace, and the battle between them continued.

VINDA and ANUVINDA, those two princes of Avanti, approached in battle against KUNTIBHOJA at the head of his troops accompanied by his son. And wonderful was the prowess shown by the those two princes on that occasion, for they fought on very cooly though battling with a large body of troops. And Anuvinda hurled a mace at Kuntibhoja, but Kuntibhoja quickly covered him with a shower of arrows. And the son of Kuntibhoja pierced Vinda with many arrows, and the latter also pierced him in return. And the combat looked very wonderful.

The Kekaya brothers, at the head of their troops, encountered in battle the five Gandhara princes with their troops.

Another Kaurava VIRAVAHU battled with UTTARA, the son of Virata and pierced him with nine arrows. And Uttara also pierced that hero with sharp-edged arrows.

The ruler of the CHEDIS, rushed in battle against ULUKA. And he pierced Uluka with a shower of arrows, and Uluka also pierced him with sharp arrows furnished with excellent wing. And the combat that took place between them, was fierce in the extreme, for unable to vanquish each other, they mangled each other terribly.

AND THUS IN THAT GENERAL ENGAGEMENT THOUSANDS OF SINGLE COMBATS TOOK PLACE BETWEEN MEN ON CAR, WARRIORS ON ELEPHANTS AND HORSEMEN, AND FOOT-SOLDIERS, OF THEIR SIDE AND THINE. FOR A SHORT WHILE ONLY THAT ENGAGEMENT OFFERED A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT. OON, HOWEVER, IT BECAME FURIOUS AND NOTHING COULD BE DISCOVERED. IN THE BATTLE (THAT ENSUED) ELEPHANTS RUSHED AGAINST ELEPHANTS, CAR-WARRIORS AGAINST CAR-WARRIORS, STEED AGAINST STEED AND FOOT-SOLDIER AGAINST FOOT-SOLDIER. THE CONFLICT THEN BECAME CONFUSED AND FIERCE IN THE EXTREME, OF HEROES RUSHING AGAINST EACH OTHER IN THE MELEE. AND THE CELESTIAL RISHI, AND SIDDHAS AND CHARANAS, THAT WERE PRESENT THERE, BEHELD THAT TERRIFIC BATTLE TO RESEMBLE THE COMBAT OF THE GODS AND THE ASURAS. AND ELEPHANTS IN THOUSANDS, AND CARS ALSO IN THOUSANDS, AND VAST BODIES OF INFANTRY, SEEMED TO ALTER THEIR CHARACTER. ALSO, IT WAS SEEN THAT CARS AND ELEPHANTS AND STEEDS AND INFANTRY FOUGHT WITH EACH OTHER REPEATEDLY ON THE SAME PLACES.


Oopsssssssssssss !!!!

Now only, I could complete the list of the great warriors & princes who were pitted against each other !

From now, the EVENTFUL FIRST DAY WAR DETAILS WILL FOLLOW TOMORROW :D

Day 1 was won by Kauravas !!

VINDA and ANUVINDA, those two princes of Avanti, approached in battle against KUNTIBHOJA at the head of his troops accompanied by his son. And wonderful was the prowess shown by the those two princes on that occasion, for they fought on very cooly though battling with a large body of troops. And Anuvinda hurled a mace at Kuntibhoja, but Kuntibhoja quickly covered him with a shower of arrows. And the son of Kuntibhoja pierced Vinda with many arrows, and the latter also pierced him in return. And the combat looked very wonderful.

The Kekaya brothers, at the head of their troops, encountered in battle the five Gandhara princes with their troops.

Another Kaurava VIRAVAHU battled with UTTARA, the son of Virata and pierced him with nine arrows. And Uttara also pierced that hero with sharp-edged arrows.

The ruler of the CHEDIS, rushed in battle against ULUKA. And he pierced Uluka with a shower of arrows, and Uluka also pierced him with sharp arrows furnished with excellent wing. And the combat that took place between them, was fierce in the extreme, for unable to vanquish each other, they mangled each other terribly.

AND THUS IN THAT GENERAL ENGAGEMENT THOUSANDS OF SINGLE COMBATS TOOK PLACE BETWEEN MEN ON CAR, WARRIORS ON ELEPHANTS AND HORSEMEN, AND FOOT-SOLDIERS, OF THEIR SIDE AND THINE. FOR A SHORT WHILE ONLY THAT ENGAGEMENT OFFERED A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT. OON, HOWEVER, IT BECAME FURIOUS AND NOTHING COULD BE DISCOVERED. IN THE BATTLE (THAT ENSUED) ELEPHANTS RUSHED AGAINST ELEPHANTS, CAR-WARRIORS AGAINST CAR-WARRIORS, STEED AGAINST STEED AND FOOT-SOLDIER AGAINST FOOT-SOLDIER. THE CONFLICT THEN BECAME CONFUSED AND FIERCE IN THE EXTREME, OF HEROES RUSHING AGAINST EACH OTHER IN THE MELEE. AND THE CELESTIAL RISHI, AND SIDDHAS AND CHARANAS, THAT WERE PRESENT THERE, BEHELD THAT TERRIFIC BATTLE TO RESEMBLE THE COMBAT OF THE GODS AND THE ASURAS. AND ELEPHANTS IN THOUSANDS, AND CARS ALSO IN THOUSANDS, AND VAST BODIES OF INFANTRY, SEEMED TO ALTER THEIR CHARACTER. ALSO, IT WAS SEEN THAT CARS AND ELEPHANTS AND STEEDS AND INFANTRY FOUGHT WITH EACH OTHER REPEATEDLY ON THE SAME PLACES.


Oopsssssssssssss !!!!

Now only, I could complete the list of the great warriors & princes who were pitted against each other !

From now, the EVENTFUL FIRST DAY WAR DETAILS WILL FOLLOW TOMORROW :D

Day 1 was won by Kauravas !!

Now, lets focus on the son of Ganga !

Durmukha and Kritavarman, and Kripa, and Salya, and Vivinsati, urged by Duryodhanan approached Bhishma and began to protect him. And protected by those five , that great car-warrior penetrated the Pandava host. And the palmyra standard of Bhishma was seen to glide continually through the Chedis, the Kasis, the Karushas, and the Panchalas. And that hero, with broad-headed shafts of great swiftness which were again perfectly straight, cut off the heads (of foes) and their cars with yokes and standards. Bhishma seemed to dance on his car as it coursed along its track. And some elephants, struck (by him) in their vital parts, shrieked in agony.

Now Abhimanyu rushed towards Bhishma's car. And striking with a keen-edged shaft the standard of the palmyra-bannered (warrior), that hero engaged in battle with Bhishma and those other 5 who protected him. Piercing Kritavarman with one arrow, and Salya with five, he weakened his great-grandsire with nine arrows. And with one arrow well shot from his bow drawn to its fullest stretch, he cut off (his adversary's) standard adorned with pure gold. And with one broad-headed shaft capable of penetrating every cover, which was perfectly straight, he cut off from his body the head of Durmukha's charioteer. And with another keen-edged arrow he cut in twain the gold-decked bow of Kripa. And them also, with many sharp-pointed shafts, seeming to dance (the while). And in consequence of Abhimanyu's sureness of aim, all the car-warriors headed by Bhishma regarded him to be possessed of the capacity of his illustrious Father himself. And his bow, emitting a twang like that of Gandiva, while stretched and re-stretched, seemed to revolve like a circle of fire. Bhishma then, that slayer of hostile heroes, rushing on him impetuously, speedily pierced the son of Arjuna in that combat with nine arrows. And he also, with three broad-headed shafts, cut off the standard of that warrior of great energy. Bhishma also struck his (adversary's) charioteer. And Kritavarman, and Kripa, and Salya also, piercing Arjuna's son, all failed to make him waver, for he stood firm And the heroic son of Arjuna, though surrounded by those big names of the Kauravas, still showered on those five car-warriors arrowy downpours. And baffling their mighty weapons by his arrowy showers, and pouring on Bhishma his shafts, the powerful son of Arjuna set up loud shout.
And struggling in the battle thus and afflicting Bhishma with (his) arrows, the strength we saw of his arms then was very great. But though endued with such prowess Bhishma also shot his arrows at him. But he cut off in that combat the arrows shot from Bhishma's bow. And then that heroic warrior of arrows that were never lost, cut off with nine arrows, in that combat, the standard of Bhishma. And at that feat the people there set up a loud shout. Decked with jewels and made of silver, that tall standard bearing the device of the palmyra, cut off, by the shafts of Subhadra's son, fell down on the earth. That standard failing in consequence of the shafts of Subhadra's son, the proud Bhima set up a loud shout for cheering the son of Subhadra. Then in fierce combat, the mighty Bhishma caused many celestial weapons of great efficacy to appear. And the great grandsire of immeasurable soul then covered Subhadra's son with thousands of arrows. And at this, ten great bowmen of the Pandavas, quickly rushed on their cars for protecting the son of Subhadra. And those were Virata with his son, and Dhrishtadyumna of Prishata's race, and Bhima, the five Kekaya brothers, and Satyaki also. And as they were falling upon him with great impetuosity, Bhishma the son of Santanu, in that conflict, pierced the prince of Panchala with three arrows, and Satyaki with ten. And with one winged arrow, whetted and sharp-edged as a razor, and shot from his bow drawn to its fullest stretch, he cut off the standard of Bhimasena. And the standard of Bhimasena, made of gold and bearing the device of a lion, cut off by Bhishma, fell from the car. And Bhima then, piercing Santanu's son Bhishma in that combat with three arrows, pierced Kripa with one, and Kritavarman with eight. And Uttara also, the son of Virata, on a tusker with upraised trunk, rushed against the ruler of the Madras.

day 1 continues ...........

Salya, however, succeeded in checking the unparalleled impetuosity of that prince of elephants rushing quickly towards his car. That prince of elephants, in great wrath, placing his leg upon the yoke of (Salya's) car, killed his four large steeds of excellent speed. The ruler of the Madras then, staying on that car whose steeds had been slain, hurled a dart, all made of iron, and resembling a snake, for slaying Uttara outright. The latter's coat of mail being cut through by that dart, he became totally deprived of his senses and fell down from his elephant's neck, with the hook and the lance loosened from his grasp. And Salya then, taking up his sword and jumping down from his excellent car, and putting forth his prowess, cut off the large trunk of that prince of elephants. His coat of mail pierced all over with a shower of arrows, and his trunk cut off, that elephant uttered a loud shriek and fell down and expired. Achieving such a feat, the ruler of the Madras speedily mounted on the splendid car of Kritavarman. And beholding his brother Uttara slain and seeing Salya staying with Kritavarman, Virata's son Sweta blazed up in wrath, like fire (blazing up) with clarified butter. Stretching his large bow , rushed with the desire of slaying Salya . Surrounded on all sides with a mighty division of cars, he advanced towards Salya's car pouring an arrowy shower. And beholding him rush to the fight with prowess equal to that of an infuriate elephant, seven car-warriors of thy side surrounded him on all sides, desirous of protecting the ruler of Madras who seemed to be already within the jaws of Death.
And those seven warriors were Vrihadvala the ruler of the Kosalas, and Jayatsena of Magadha, and Rukmaratha, who was the valourous son of Salya, and Vinda and Anuvinda of Avanti, and Sudakshina the king of the Kamvojas, and Jayadratha, the ruler of the Sindhus and the kinsman of Vrihadkshatra. And the stretched bows of those warriors, decorated with diverse colours, looked like the lightning's flashes in the clouds. And they all poured on Sweta's head ceaseless showers of arrows like the clouds tossed by the wind dropping rain on the mountain breast on the expiry of summer. That bowman and commander of the forces, enraged at this, with seven broad-headed arrows of great impetuosity, struck their bows, and then continued to grind them. And those bows were cut off, and thereupon they all took up, within half the time taken up in a wink of the eye, other bows. And they then shot at Sweta seven arrows.
And once again Sweta, with seven fleet shafts, cut off those (other) bows of these bowmen. Those warriors then, whose large bows had been cut off, swelling (with rage), grasping (seven) darts, set up a loud shout.

They hurled those seven darts at Sweta's car. And those blazing darts which coursed (through the air) like large meteors, with the sound of thunder, were all cut off, before they could reach him, that warrior conversant with mighty weapons, by means of seven broad-headed arrows. Then taking up an arrow capable of penetrating into every part of the body, he shot it, at Rukmaratha. And that mighty arrow, surpassing (the force of) the thunder-bolt, penetrated into the latter's body. Then, forcibly struck by that arrow, Rukmaratha sat down on the terrace of his car and fell into a deadly swoon. His charioteer then, without betraying any fear, bore him away, senseless and in a swoon, in the very sight of all. Then taking up six other (arrows) adorned with gold, the mighty-armed Sweta cut off the standard-tops of his six adversaries. And that chastiser of foes then, piercing their steeds and charioteers also, and covering those six warriors themselves with ceaseless shafts, proceeded towards the car of Salya. And beholding that generalissimo of the (Pandava) forces proceeding quickly towards Salya's car, a loud uproar of oh and alas arose in thy army.

Then Duryodhana , with Bhishma at the head, and supported by heroic warriors and many troops, proceeded towards Sweta's car. And he thus rescued the ruler of the Madras who had already entered the jaws of Death.

Day one continues tomorrow ........................

Now commenced a battle, terrific and making the hair stand on end, in which cars and elephants all got mixed up in confusion. And upon Subhadra's son and Bhimasena, Satyaki, and upon the ruler of the Kekayas, and Virata, and Dhrishtadyumna of Prishatas' race, all brave and mighty car-warriors, placing the generalissimo Sweta in the van, and displaying their strength. Duryodhana, desired to rescue (Sweta).

The Chariot warrios rushed towards Bhishma's chariot desirous of slaying him. And the battle that ensued then was terrible.

Bheeshma made the terraces of many cars empty, (for) that best of car-warriors showering (his) arrows, cut off many heads. He covered the very Sun with his arrows. And he removed his enemies from around him in that combat like the rising Sun dispelling the darkness around. Arrows were shot by him in hundreds and thousands that were powerful and possessed of great impetuosity and that took in that conflict the lives of numberless Kshatriyas. And in that combat he felled heads, by hundreds, of heroic warriors and elephants cased in thorny mail, like summits of mountains (felled) by heaven's bolt. And a car might be seen upon another car, and a steed upon another steed. With swords and quivers attached (to their persons) and coats of mail loosened (from their bodies), hundreds of warriors, deprived of life, lay on the ground, sleeping on beds (worthy) of heroes. Rushing against one another, falling down and rising up again and rushing again having risen up, the combatants fought hand to hand. Afflicted by one another, many rolled on the field of battle. Infuriate elephants rushed hither and thither, and car-warriors by hundreds were slain. And car-warriors, along with their cars, were crushed on all sides. And some warriors fell upon his car, slain by another with arrows. And a mighty car-warrior might be seen to fall down from high, his charioteer (also) having been slain. A thick dust arose, and thereupon unto the warrior struggling in battle, the twang of the (hostile) bow indicated the struggling adversary before. From the pressure also on their bodies, combatants guessed their foes. And the warriors, fought on with arrows, guided by the sound of bow-strings and (hostile) division. The very hiss of the arrows shot by the combatants at one another could not be heard. And so loud was the sound of drums, that it seemed to pierce the ears. And in that tumultuous uproar making the hair stand on end, the name of the combatant uttered in the battle, while displaying his prowess, could not be heard. One of the wheels being broken, or the yoke being torn off or one of the steeds being slain, the brave car-warrior was overthrown from his car, along with his charioteer, by means of straight arrows. And thus many heroic warriors, deprived of their cars, were seen to fly away. He who was slain had cut off; he who was not slain, was struck at the very vitals: but unstruck there was none, when Bhishma attacked the foe.

And in that terrific battle, Sweta caused a great slaughter of the Kurus. And he slew many noble princes by hundreds upon hundreds. And he cut off, by means of his arrows, the heads of car-warriors by hundreds upon hundreds, and (their) arms decked with Angadas, and (their) bows all around. And car-warriors and car-wheels and others that were on cars, and the cars themselves, and standards both small and costly, and large bodies of horses, and crowds of cars, and crowds of men, were destroyed by Sweta.

The Kauravas , from fear of Sweta, abandoning (Bhishma) , left the battle retreating to the rear. Cheerful however, Bhishma, alone amongst the Kauravas stood immovable

to be continued .............

Day 1 continues.......

Battle between Bheeshma - Swetha :


Encountering Sweta, Bhishma, was the only one who was cheerful, he began to consume the Pandavas And beholding the generalissimo (Sweta) smiting the Kaurava divisions, Bhishma, impetuously rushed against him. Thereupon, Sweta covered Bhishma with an extensive net-work of arrows. And Bhishma also covered Sweta with a flight of arrows. And roaring like a couple of bulls, they rushed, like two infuriate elephants of gigantic size or two raging tigers, against each other. Baffling each other's weapons by means of their weapons, Bhishma and Sweta fought with each other, desirous of taking each other's life.

In one single day Bhishma, infuriate with anger, could consume the Pandava army with his arrows, if Sweta did not protect it.

Beholding the grandsire then turned off by Sweta, the Pandavas were filled with joy, while Duryodhana then, with wrath excited and surrounded by many kings, rushed with his troops against the Pandava host in battle. Then Sweta, abandoning the son of Ganga, slaughtered Duryodhana’st host with great impetuosity.

And the son of Virata, senseless with wrath, having routed the Kauravas, advanced to the place where Bhishma was stationed. Both battled with each other. Drawing (his) bow to the fullest stretch, Sweta pierced Bhishma with seven arrows. The valourous (Bhishma) then, putting forth his prowess, quickly checked his foe's valour. And Sweta then struck Bhishma, and also pierced him in return with ten arrows. And though pierced by him (thus), that mighty warrior stood still like a mountain. And Sweta again pierced Santanu's son with five and twenty straight arrows, at which all wondered. Then smiling and licking with his tongue the corners of his mouth, Sweta in that combat cut off Bhishma's bow into ten fragments with ten arrows. Then aiming a plumed arrow made wholly of iron, (Sweta) crushed the palmyra on the top of the standard of Bhishma. And beholding the standard of Bhishma cut down, the Kauravas , for a moment thought that Bhishma was slain, having succumbed to Sweta.
And the Pandavas also filled with delight, blew their conches all around. And beholding the palmyra standard of Bhishma laid low, Duryodhana, from wrath, urged his own army to the battle. And they all began very carefully to protect Bhishma who 'was in great distress. Unto them, also unto those that stood (idle) spectators, the king said,--Either Sweta will die (today), or Bhishma the son of Santanu. I say this truly. Hearing the words of the king, the mighty car-warriors speedily with four kinds of forces, advanced protecting the son of Ganga. And Valhika and Kritavarman, and Kripa, and Salya also and the son of Jarasandha, and Vikarna, and Chitrasena, and Vivinsati, with great speed, when speed was so necessary, surrounding him on all sides, poured on Sweta ceaseless showers of arrows. Swetha quickly checked those angry warriors by means of sharp arrows, displaying his own lightness of hand.
And checking them all like a lion and a multitude of elephants, Sweta then cut off Bhishma's bow with thick shower of arrows. Then Bhishma , taking up another bow in that battle, pierced Sweta, with arrows furnished with feathers of Kanka bird. Then the commander (of the Pandava army), with wrath excited, pierced Bhishma in that encounter , with a great many shafts in the very sight of all. Beholding Bhishma, that foremost of heroes in all the world, checked in battle by Sweta, Duryodhana became greatly troubled, and great also became the distress of thy whole army.

And beholding the heroic Bhishma checked and mangled by Sweta with his arrows, all thought that Bhishma, having succumbed to Sweta, was slain by him. Then Bheeshma, yielding to anger, and beholding his (own) standard overthrown and the Kaurava army checked, shot a great many arrows, at Sweta. Sweta, however, baffling all those arrows of Bhishma, once more cut off, with a broad-headed shaft, thy sire's bow. Throwing aside that bow, with anger, taking up another bow larger and stronger, and aiming seven large broad-headed arrows whetted on stone, slew with four arrows the four steeds of the generalissimo Sweta, cut off his standard with two and with the seventh shaft that warrior of great prowess, exceedingly provoked, cut off his charioteer's head.

Thereupon, that mighty car-warrior, jumping down from his car whose steeds and charioteer had been slain and yielding to the influence of wrath, became exceedingly troubled. The grandsire, beholding Sweta that foremost of car-warriors, deprived of car, began to smite him on all sides with showers of arrows. And smitten in that combat with arrows shot from Bhishma's bow, Sweta, leaving his bow on his (abandoned) car took up a dart decked with gold and taking up that terrible and fierce dart which resembled the fatal rod of Death and was capable of slaying Death's self. Sweta then, in great wrath, addressed in that combat, saying,--Wait a little, and behold me, O best of men,--And having said this unto Bhishma in battle, that great bowman of exceeding prowess and immeasurable soul, hurled the dart resembling a snake, displaying his valour for the sake of the Pandavas and desiring to achieve thy evil. Then loud cries of oh and alas arose among thy sons, upon beholding that terrible dart resembling the rod of Death in splendour. And hurled from Sweta's arms, (that dart), resembling a snake that had just cast off its slough, fell with great force, like a large meteor from the firmament. Bheeshma then, without the slightest fear, with eight sharp and winged arrows, cut off into nine fragments, that dart decked with pure gold and which seemed to be covered with flames of fire, as it coursed ablaze through the air. All Kaurava troops then, set up loud shouts of joy. The son of Virata, however, beholding his dart cut off into fragments, became senseless with anger, and like one whose heart was overcome by (the arrival of) his hour, could not settle what to do. Deprived of his senses by anger, the son of Virata, then, smiling, joyfully took up a mace for Bhishma's slaughter, with eyes red in wrath, and resembling a second Yama armed with mace, he rushed against Bhishma like a swollen torrent against the rocks. Regarding his impetuosity as incapable of cheek, Bhishma endued with great prowess and conversant with the might (of others), suddenly alighted on the ground for warding off that blow. Sweta then, whirling in wrath that heavy mace, hurled it on Bhishma's car . And in consequence of that mace intended for Bhishma's destruction, that car was reduced to ashes, with standard, and charioteer, and steeds and shaft. Beholding Bhishma, now become a combatant on foot, many car-warriors, viz., Salya and others, speedily rushed (to his rescue). Mounting then upon another car, and cheerlessly stretching his bow, Bhishma slowly advanced towards Sweta. Meanwhile, Bhishma heard a loud voice uttered in the skies, that was celestial and fraught with his own good. (And the voice said).--O, Bhishma, O thou of mighty arms, strive without losing a moment. Even this is the hour fixed by the Creator of the Universe for success over this one'. Hearing those words uttered by the celestial messenger, Bhishma, filled with joy, set his heart upon Sweta's destruction. And beholding that , Sweta become a combatant on foot, many mighty car-warriors (of the Pandava side) rushed unitedly (to his rescue).They were Satyaki, and Bhimasena, and Dhrishtadyumna and the (five) Kekaya brothers, and Dhrishtaketu and Abhimanyu of great energy. And beholding them rushing (to the rescue), with Drona and Salya and Kripa , Bhishma checked them all like the mountain resisting the force of the wind. And when all the high-souled warriors of the Pandava side were (thus) held in check, Sweta, taking up a sword cut off Bhishma's bow. Casting aside that bow, the grandsire, quickly made up his mind for Sweta's destruction, having heard the words of the celestial messenger. Though baffled (by Sweta), the sire Devavrata quickly taking up another bow, stringed it in a moment. Then, beholding that mighty car-warrior Sweta, though the latter was then surrounded by those tigers among men with Bhimasena at their head,-- the son of Ganga-advanced steadily for the sake of the generalissimo Sweta alone. Beholding Bhishma advance, Bhimasena of great prowess pierced him with sixty shafts. But Devavrata, checking both Bhimasena and Abhimanyu and other car-warriors with terrible shafts, struck him with three straight arrows. He also struck Satyaki, in that combat, with a hundred arrows, and Dhrishtadyumna with twenty and the Kekaya brothers with five. And checking all those great bowmen with terrible arrows, the grand old man advanced towards Sweta alone. Then taking out an arrow resembling Death's self and capable of bearing a great strain and incapable of being resisted, the powerful Bhishma placed it on his bowstring. And that shaft, furnished with wings and duly endued with the force of the Brahma weapon, was seen by the gods and Gandharvas and Pisachas and Uragas, and Rakshasas. And that shaft, of splendour like that of a blazing fire, piercing through his coat of mail (passed through his body and) struck into the earth, with a flash like that of heaven's bolt. Like the Sun when speedily retiring to his western chambers taking along with him the rays of light, even thus that shaft passed out of Sweta's body, bearing away with itself his life. Thus slain in battle by Bhishma, we beheld that tiger among men fall down like the loosened crest of a mountain. And all the mighty car-warriors of the Kshatriya race belonging to the Pandava side indulged in lamentations while the Kauravas rejoiced. Then, O king, beholding Sweta overthrown, Dussasana danced in joy over the field in accompaniment With the loud music of conches and drums. And when that great bowman was slain by Bhishma, that ornament of battle, the mighty bowmen (of the Pandava side) with Sikhandin at their head, trembled in fear. Then when their commander was slain, Dhananjaya, , slowly withdrew the troops for their nightly rest. And then, the withdrawal took place of both armies while the Kauravas were frequently setting up loud roars.

And the mighty car-warriors of the Parthas entered (their quarters) cheerlessly, thinking, of that awful slaughter in single combat (of their commander

THUS ENDED THE LIFE OF A GREAT WARRIOR SWETHA .

Tomorrow will be Bheeshma vs Arjuna !!

Day 1 continues........

When, after the forenoon had passed away, the commander Sweta was slain by Bhishma in that fierce conflict, Virata's son Sankha, beholding Salya stationed with Kritavarman (on his car), suddenly blazed up with wrath, like fire with clarified butter. He, stretching his bow, rushed towards Salva.
And Sankha, causing an arrowy downpour rushed towards the car on which Salya was. And beholding him advancing like an infuriate elephant, seven mighty car-warriors of Kauravas surrounded him--desirous of rescuing Salva already within the jaws of death.
Then Bhishma, roaring like the very clouds, and taking up a bow full six cubits long, rushed towards Sankha in battle. And beholding that mighty car-warrior and great bowman thus rushing, the Pandava host began to tremble like a boat tossed by a violence of the tempest.
Then Arjuna, quickly advancing, placed himself in front of Sankha, thinking that Sankha should, then be protected from Bhishma. And then the combat commenced between Bhishma and Arjuna. And loud cries of oh and alas arose among the warriors engaged in battle. And one force seemed to merge into another force. And thus all were filled with wonder.

Then Salya, mace in hand, alighting from his large car, slew the four steeds of Sankha. Jumping down from his car thus deprived of steeds, and taking a sword, Sankha ran towards Vibhatsu's car and (mounting on it) was once more at his ease. And then there fell from Bhishma's car innumerable arrows by which were covered the entire welkin and the earth. Bhishma slaughtered with his arrows the Panchala, the Matsya, the Kekaya, and the Prabhadraka host. And soon abandoning in that battle, Arjuna), Bhishma rushed towards Drupada. And he soon covered his dear relative with innumerable arrows. Like a forest consumed by fire at the end of winter, the troops of Drupada were seen to be consumed.
Bhishma stood in that battle like a blazing fire without smoke, or like the Sun himself at midday scorching everything around with his heat. The combatants of the Pandavas were not able to even look at Bhishma. And afflicted with fear, the Pandava host cast its eyes around, and not beholding any protector, looked like a herd of kine afflicted by cold. Slaughtered or retreating in despondence being crushed the while, loud cries, of oh and alas arose among the troops of the Pandavas. Then Bhishma, shot therefrom blazing arrows that resembled virulent poison. And creating continuous lines of arrows in all directions, that hero of rigid vows slew Pandava car-warriors, naming each, beforehand. And then when the troops of the Pandavas were routed and crushed all over the field, the sun set and nothing could be seen.
And then beholding Bhishma, proudly standing in battle, the Parthas withdrew their forces for nightly rest

AT THE END OF DAY 1 , THE KAURAVAS EMERGED VICTORIOUS .


END OF DAY 1.............

Comments / observations invited pls ....

I shall wait for a day after which will move to Day 2 :D

Amazing thread and nice write up just went through the whole postings from 1st page :clap:

Good work !!! Nakeera , plz continue.

Sorry to interupt the flow .

I have read the curses given to Karna one by brahman guru etc, in the same way i heard even Bhooma devi cursed Karnan bcoz of this only his wheels broke and get struck during the war is it true.

It has been mentioned in the thread that shiva broke Arjuna ego same way there is also saying Arjuna thought he is supreme in archery and no one is near to him and to help crossing the lake arjuna would make a bridge with arrows. He would state no one has power to break this bridge but hanuman would break bridge made by arjuna, is it true .

I too do not want to disturb the flow .. but could not stop wondering why Bhishma did not kill one of the five on the first day itself ..

Please continue Nakeeran ... eagerly waiting for the next day..

Quote:

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Originally Posted by pizzalot

I too do not want to disturb the flow .. but could not stop wondering why Bhishma did not kill one of the five on the first day itself ..

Please continue Nakeeran ... eagerly waiting for the next day..

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Pizzalot

Well....before the commencement of war, both Bheeshma & Drona clearly informed Duryodhana that THEY WILL ONLY TRY TO DEFEAT THE PANDAVAS but WILL NOT KILL ANY OF THE 5 PANDAVAS as for them both Kauravas & Pandavas stand on equal footing except for having taken food from Dhirudhirastra ( I mean to reciprocate with gratitude for the honour being bestowed upon by the Kauravas to them )

Today Day 2 will commence :D

Quote:

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Originally Posted by great

Sorry to interupt the flow .

I have read the curses given to Karna one by brahman guru etc, in the same way i heard even Bhooma devi cursed Karnan bcoz of this only his wheels broke and get struck during the war is it true.

It has been mentioned in the thread that shiva broke Arjuna ego same way there is also saying Arjuna thought he is supreme in archery and no one is near to him and to help crossing the lake arjuna would make a bridge with arrows. He would state no one has power to break this bridge but hanuman would break bridge made by arjuna, is it true .

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Greatna ..Thanks :D

Karna’s curses are a lengthy story !

Parasurama vowed that he will never teach anything to Kshatriyas . Karna , not sure of his caste ( you know he was put in a basket by Kunti & let it in a river which was spotted by a Charioteer & he brings him up. Incidentally, Karna was also called Radheyan ) tlearns the art of archery from Parasurama by telling lie that he is a Brahman & learns the entire art from him. One day while Parasurama was taking rest on the lap of Karna , a bee penetrates deep into Karna’s thighs & blood comes out. Parasurama on seeing it after waking up screams at Karna that a Brahman will not have such tolerance but only a Kshatriya could have such immense strength to withstand such a pain . This baffles Karna who has no clue to convince his guru . At this point Parasurama gets wild & CURSES KARNA THAT WHATEVER HE HAD LEARNT FROM HIM , THE SACRED MANTRAS & THE WAY TO USE THE DIVINE WEAPONS – they will become useless, at the most needed juncture.
Poor Karna will face the impact of this curse when he meets Arjuna after he takes charge as the commander of Kaurava forces after the end of Drona .
Don’t worry – I will give a detailed account of Karna when his part comes up )

Second , upset & frustrated by the curse given by his guru , Karna shoots arrows everywhere & one such kills the cow of a Brahman . The Brahman getting furious curses Karna that as he was totally dependant on the cow for his livelihood , Karna too will lose the services of his chariot oneday when he needed it the most – Now you will realize that the wheel gets struck deep inside when he was facing Arjuna .

To sum up, poor Karna was already made powerless virtually even before the war & he had only 2 strong weapons to his credit – 1 the Shakti which was a quid pro quo act by Indira when he grants his kavacha & kundala & 2 Sarpamugastira – a snake headed arrow which is a potent weapon & which he preserved it to use it only against Arjuna … What happened to both the deadly weapons will be described at the appropriate moment . Pls wait !

All will be covered when Karna parva comes up !

Wish to update you all with what transpired after the end of day 1 with the Pandavas :

After the first day, the Pandava camp assembled together & they had a lengthy discussion .
As we all know, the team was a bit demoralised by the havoc created by Bheeshma at the end of the previous day & this worried Dharmaputhra a lot.
He straight away addressed to Krishna :

O Kesava, the way Bheeshma is running through our side, it seems like he will destroy our army soon.... I am really worried now.

While Arjuna continues to be indifferent, only Bheema was as consistent ever & fighting with 100 % clear frame of mind.

What to do ? Pl guide us .........

Krishna in turn consoles & motivates the Pandavas by saying :

Please do not worry. Though Bheeshma is a great warrior, do not forget that Shikandin is destined to down him soon

And not to forget Dhrishtadyumna who is born to kill Drona .

We have a strong men around us & for sure we will eliminate the Kauravas .....

By saying this, Krishna comforts the Pandavas...

As the next day approached, the Pandavas decide to form a vyuha called -An array known by the name of Krauncharuma, that is destructive of all foes, and that was spoken of by Vrihaspati unto Indra in days of old when the gods and the Asuras fought,--that array destructive of hostile divisions

Thus both sides moved towards Day 2 of the war.....................

Day 2 starts :

When the battle began , Bhishma, showered an arrowy downpour on Abimanyu, and the ruler of the Kekayas and Virata, and Dhrishtadyumna as also upon the Chedi and the Matsya warriors.

Immediately the Pandavas wavered at the onset of that great man. And terrific was the encounter that took place between all the combatants. And horse-men and car-warriors and foremost of steeds fell fast. And the car-divisions of the Pandavas began to fly away.

This made Arjuna furious, angrily asked Krishna. 'Proceed to the place where the grandsire is. As the chariot proceeded forward Arjuna says - it is evident that this Bhishma, with wrath excited, will annihilate for Duryodhana's benefit my host. And this Drona, and Kripa and Salya and Vikarna, united with Dhritarashtra's sons headed by Duryodhana, will slaughter the Panchalas. Even I, therefore, shall stay Bhishma for the sake of my troops, for which Krishna said, 'Be careful, Arjun for I will soon take you, towards the grandsire's car.

Now Bhishma, struck Arjuna with seventy-seven arrows and Drona also struck him) with five and twenty, and Kripa with fifty, and Duryodhana with four and sixty, and Salya with nine arrows; and Aswathama with sixty, and Vikarna with three arrows; and Saindhava with nine and Sakuni with five. Arjuna , in return pierced Bhishma with five and twenty, and Kripa with nine arrows, and Drona with sixty, , and Vikarna with three arrows and Duryodhana also with five. And then Satyaki, and Virata and Dhrishtadyumna and the sons of Draupadi, and Abhimanyu, all surrounded him, as a mark of support. Then Dhrushtradyumnan, supported by the Somakas, advanced towards Drona . Then Bhishma, pierced Arjuna with eighty sharp arrows, upon which the combatants on Kauravas were much thrilled. Hearing the shouts of Kauravas, Arjuna entered into the midst of Kauravas

Bheeshma pierced Partha again with nine shafts. And Arjuna pierced him in return with ten shafts penetrating into the very vitals. Then, Arjuna showered Bheeshma with 100s of shafts


Day 2 continues................

Both Bheeshma & Arjuna -well-pleased, and both delighting in battle, fought with each other without each gaining any advantage over the other, and each desirous of counteracting the other's feats.
The successive flights of arrows shot from Bhishma's bow were seen to be dispersed by the shafts of Arjuna. And so the flights of arrows shot by Arjuna, cut off by the arrows of Ganga's son, all fell down on the ground. And Arjuna pierced Bhishma with five and twenty arrows of sharp points. And Bhishma, too, in that combat, pierced Partha in return with nine arrows.

The 2 two great warriors, piercing each other's steeds, and also the shafts and the wheels of each other's cars, began to sport.

Now Bhishma's shafts struck Krishna on his chest with three arrows.

This upset Arjuna & he pierced in that combat the charioteer of Ganga's son with three arrows. And both heroes, striving with each other against each other's car, succeeded not in taking aim at each other in the combat. And in consequence of the ability and dexterity of the charioteers of both those warriors, both displayed, beautiful circles and advancings and retreatings in respect of their moving cars. And, seeing the opportunity to strike, they frequently changed positions, And the 2 mighty heros twang their bows, both in the same manner. And with the blare of their conches and the rattle of their car-wheels, the very Earth was suddenly rent. And it began to tremble and produce subterranean noises. And nobody, could detect any latches in either of them. Both of them was possessed of great might and great courage in battle, each was other's match. None, observed any difference between the two, just as none finds any transgression in a person observant of morality. And both of them (at times) became perfectly invisible in consequence of clouds of arrows. And soon enough both of them in that battle became visible.

Now the gods with Gandharvas and the Rishis said unto one another. These mighty car-warriors when excited with rage, are incapable of ever being vanquished in battle by all the worlds with the gods, the Asuras and the Gandharvas. This highly wonderful battle would be wonderful in all the worlds. Indeed, a battle such as this will never take place again. Bhishma is incapable of being conquered in combat by Pritha's son of great intelligence, showering his arrows in battle, with bow and car and steeds. So also that great bowman, the son of Pandu, incapable of being vanquished in battle by the very gods, Bhishma is not competent to conquer in combat. As long as the world itself will last, so long will this battle continue equally.

The Devas wondered at the prowess shown by both .

Day 2 continues tomorrow......

Day 2 continues.................

Battle at another corner between Drona & Drishtadyumna :

Drona with diverse arrows pierced Dhrishtadyumna and felled the latter'scharioteer from his niche in the car & this enraged him & in return he pierced Drona in the combat with nine sharp arrows and addressed him, saying, 'Wait--Wait'.

Now Drona, covered with his arrows on Dhrishtadyumna. . Now he took a dreadful arrow for the destruction of Drishtadyumna. In return, he cut off that terrible and blazing arrow also showered an arrowy downpour on Bharadwaja's son

Mid way, Drona destroyed his chariot . Now, Drishtadyumna, taking a large and beautiful shield rushed impetuously towards Drona by foot. Drona now stopped his progress by showering with arrows & this made him unable to proceed further.

Bheema steps in now to rescue his brother in law , with seven sharp-pointed arrows, and speedily made him to take up another chariot. Seeing this, Duryodhana urged the ruler of the Kalingas supported by a large division, for the protection of Drona & they obliged his order & moved towards Bheema .

Drona now shifted his focus towards Virata and Drupada together.
By now , Dhrishtadyumna having recovered from the wrath of Drona , proceeded to support Yudhishthira .

Its Bheema vs Kalinga now . While Bheema was supported by Chedis, the Kalingas were backed by Ketumat , the son of the king of Nishadas. And the ruler of the Kalingas with many thousands of cars, and Ketumat with ten thousand elephants and the Nishadas, surrounded Bhimasena, on all sides.
Then the Chedis, the Matsyas, and Karushas, with Bhimasena at their head, with many kings impetuously rushed against the Nishadas. And then commenced the battle, fierce and terrible, between the warriors rushing at one another from desire of slaughter. And terrific was the battle that suddenly took place between Bhima and his foes.
The king of the Kalingas, his son known by the name of Sakradeva, both began to strike Bheema with shafts & cut his steeds. But Bhimasena, staying on his car whose steeds had been slain, hurled at Sakradeva a mace made of the hardest iron which kills him . The king of the Kalingas beholding his own son slain, surrounded Bhima on all sides with many thousands of cars. Bheema now abandoning mace, took up a scimitar.

Bhanumat then covered Bhima with a shower of arrows, and set up a loud shout, making the welkin resound with it. Bhima, however, in that fierce battle, could not bear that leonine shout.

Himself endued with a loud voice, he also shouted very loudly. And at these shouts of his, the army of the Kalingas became filled with fear. In that battle they no longer regarded Bhima, as a human being. Then, having uttered a loud shout, Bhima, sword in hand impetuously jumping on (Bhanumat's) excellent elephant aided by the latter's tusks, gained, the back of that prince of tuskers, and with his huge sword cut Bhanumat, dividing him in the middle. Thus Bheema slains the prince of the Kalingas.
Then, beholding Srutayush at the head of Kalinga troops, Bhimasena rushed at him. And seeing him advancing the ruler of the Kalingas, pierced Bhimasena with nine arrows. Struck with those shafts shot by the ruler of the Kalingas, like an elephant pierced with the hook, Bhimasena blazed up with wrath like fire fed with fuel. Then Asoka, that best of charioteers, bringing a car decked with gold, caused Bhima to mount on it. And thereupon he rushed at the ruler of the Kalingas, saying,--'Wait, Wait'. The mighty Srutayush excited with wrath, shot at Bhima many sharp arrows, displaying his lightness of hand, and Bhima, forcibly struck with those nine sharp arrows shot by Kalinga from his excellent bow, yielded to great wrath. Bheema slew the ruler of the Kalingas with seven shafts made wholly of iron. And with two shafts he slew the two mighty protectors of the car-wheels of Kalinga. And he also despatched Satyadeva and Satya to the abode of Yama. Bhima also, with many sharp arrows and long shafts, caused Ketumat his end

Day 2 continues tomorrow........

Day 2 forenoon continues.........

Struck with panic in consequence of Bhima of wonderful achievements, all the Kalinga combatants fled away in all directions. When, however, they were rallied again, Dhrishtadyumna ordered his own troops, saying,--'Fight'. Hearing the words of their commander, many leaders (of the Pandava army) headed by Sikhandin approached Bhima, supported by many car-divisions accomplished in smiting. Now Yudhishthira the just, followed all of them with a large elephant force he blew his conch in battle and uttered a leonine roar.

Now, Bheema, Dhrishtadyumna & Satyaki started getting deep into the Kaurava army. They all cried aloud, saying. 'This is Death himself that is fighting in Bhima's shape with the Kalingas.

Sensing the seriouness , Bheeshma quickly proceeded towards Bhima, himself surrounded on all sides with combatants in army. Thereupon, Satyaki and Bhimasena and Dhrishtadyumna, rushed towards Bheema to support him. And all of them quickly surrounding Ganga's son in battle, pierced Bhishma, each with three terrible shafts, without losing a moment.

Bheeshma however coutered them with ease .Ffirst he destroyed Bheema’s chariot . Bheema now taking up a heavy mace speedily jumped down . Now Dhrishtadyumna quickly took away, in the very sight of all the combatants, Bheena.

Now Satyaki then from desire of doing what was agreeable to Bhima, felled with his shaft the charioteer of Bheeshma. Upon his charioteer being slain, Bhishma, was borne away from the field of battle by his steeds with the speed of the wind. Bhimasena then resumed slaying all the Kalingas and none could withstand him.

And worshipped by the Panchalas and the Matsyas, he embraced Dhrishtadyumna and then approached Satyaki.

This completes the forenoon part of the day 2

The afternoon part –

Drishtadyumna engaged himself in battle with these Drona's son, Salya, and Kripa.

Seeing this, Abimanyu came in to support him & showered with arrows .

Now, Lakshmana, the son of Duryodhana , raced towards Abimanyu.

Seeing the battle, Duryodhana himself stepped in to support his son !

Now Arjuna also joined the list to offer support to his son !

Ultimately Bheeshma also re entered the scene jointly supported by Drona.

Despite the presence of the 2 great warriors, Arjuna inflicted heavy damages onto the Kauravas & one could see bloody river flowing .

Dead bodies of fighters, charioteers, elephant based warriors & infantry – all thrown out of gear & it was an aweful sight created by the force of Arjuna’s bow .

This went on up to the end of the day ….

Now, Bheeshma smilingly addressed Drona, This mighty and heroic son of Pandu, accompanied by Krishna, is dealing with our troops as he alone is competent to deal with them. Today he was invincible by any means. This vast host again of ours is incapable of being rallied. Behold, looking at one another, our troops are flying away.

As the Sun is likely to set , let us withdraw our troops now as most of our fighters seem exhausted & tired.

Having said this to Drona , Bhishma slowly makes the army to withdraw.

Duryodhana was very upset with the events of day 2 & went back dejected.

And the sun also moves away as twilight set in.


And Day 2 ends with Pandavas emerging victorious & scored some psychological points over their rivals

Hi all,

I shall wait for comments after which I will be proceeding to DAY 3 tomorrow evening

DAY 3 starts now...............

Bhishma formed a new array known after the name of Garuda. And on the beak of that Garuda was Bheeshma himself.

Arjuna , supported by Dhrishtadyumna, started his counter-array in the form of a half-moon.

And stationed on the right horn, Bhimasena shone surrounded by kings of diverse countries abundantly armed with various weapons.
Next to him were those mighty car-warriors Virata and Drupada; and next to them was Nila armed with envenomed weapons. And next to
Dhananjaya, felling in that conflict leaders of car-divisions with his arrows, caused a great carnage.
And equal was the impact of Bheeshma & Drona onto the Pandava army .
Then Bhishma , Drona, Jayadratha, Vikarna, and Sakuni broke the ranks of the Pandavas. And so Bhimasena and the Rakshasa Ghatotkacha, and Satyaki, and Chekitana, and the sons of Draupadi, supported by all the kings (on their side), began to grind Kauravas in return.

Duryodhana, supported by a thousand cars, rushed to battle with the Pandavas and the Rakshasa

And all other kings faced their arch rivals now...

Day 3 continues......


Bhimasena and Ghatotkacha, both achieved mighty feats. Then Duryodhana, approaching, checked them both. The prowess of Gatotkacha wonderful, insomuch that he fought in battle, transcending his father.


Bhimasena, pierced the chest of Duryodhana iwith an arrow which was so powerful that Duryodhana, sat down on the terrace of his car and swooned away. And his charioteer then, speedily bore him away, from battle.

This caused his support army to panic but both Bhishma and Drona, excited with rage and both desirous of Duryodhana's welfare sought to cheek it. Then Duryodhana himself, comforting the combatants, checked that army, then flying away in all directions.
Duryodhana, beholding that army of his rallied for the fight, quickly repaired to Bhishma and said the follg words :

O grandsire, listen to what I say, O Bharata. When, O son of Kuru, thou art alive, and Drona, that foremost of persons conversant with weapons, along with his son and with all our other friends (is alive), and then that mighty bowman Kripa also is alive, I do not regard it as at all creditable that my army should thus fly away. I do not regard the Pandavas to be, by any means, a match for you or for Drona, in battle, or for Drona's son, or for Kripa. Without doubt, O grandsire, the sons of Pandu are being favoured by YOU, inasmuch as thou forgivest, O hero, this slaughter of my army. Thou shouldst have told me, O king, before this battle took place, that thou wouldst not fight with the Pandavas. Hearing such words from YOU, as also from the preceptor, O Bharata, I would then have, with Karna, reflected upon what course I should pursue. If I do not deserve to be abandoned by you two in battle, then, O bulls among men, do ye fight according to the measure of your prowess.


Hearing these words, Bhishma, laughing repeatedly, and turning up his eyes in wrath, said

Many a time, O king, have I said unto your words worthy of your acceptance and fraught with your good. The Pandavas are incapable of being vanquished in battle by the very gods with Vasudeva amongst them. That, however, which my aged self is capable of doing, I will do to the extent of my power, O best of kings, in this battle. Witness it now with your kinsmen. Today, in the very sight of all, alone I shall check the sons of Pandu at the head of their troops and with all their kinsfolk.

Thus addressed by Bhishma, Duryodhana gets back to his cheerful self, caused conches to be blown and drums to be beaten. And the Pandavas also, hearing that loud uproar, blew their conches, and caused their drums and cymbals to be played upon

Day 3 continues