61. NALA WAS MADE NUDE

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 61 - NALA WAS MADE NUDE

Summary: Nala loses everything in the game of dice and proceeded to the forest; Nala and Damayanti both suffer hunger; Nala looses his garment; Nala shows Damayanti the way to the southern country; Damayanti refuses.

“Brihadaswa said, ‘After Vaarshneya had gone away, Pushkara won from the Dharmic Nala that latter’s kingdom and what else of wealth he had. To Nala, O king, who had lost his kingdom, Pushkara laughingly said, ‘Let the play go on. But what stake you have now? Damayanti only remains; all else of yours has been won by me. Well, if you like, that Damayanti be our stake now.’ Hearing these words of Pushkara the virtuous king (Nala) felt as if his heart would burst in anger, but he spoke not a word. Gazing at Pushkara in anguish, king Nala of great fame took all the ornaments off every part of his body. Attired in a single piece of cloth, his body uncovered, renouncing all his wealth, and enhancing the grief of friends, the king (Nala) set out. Damayanti, dressed in one piece of cloth, followed him behind as he was leaving the city. Coming to the outskirts of the city, Nala stayed there for three nights with his wife.

“But Pushkara, O Maharaja (Yudhishthira), proclaimed through the city that he that should show any attention to Nala, would be doomed to death. On account of these words of Pushkara and knowing his enemity towards Nala, the citizens, O Paurava (Yudhishthira), no longer showed him hospitable regards. Unregarded though deserving of hospitable regards, Nala passed three nights in the outskirts of the city, living on water alone. Pained with hunger, the king went away in search of fruit and roots, Damayanti following him behind. In agony of famine, after many days, Nala saw some birds with feathers of golden colour. Immediately the mighty lord of the Nishadhas (Nala) thought within himself, ‘These will be my food today and also my wealth.’ Then he covered them with the cloth he had on – when bearing up that garment of his, the birds rose up to the sky. Seeing Nala nude and sad, and standing with face turned towards the ground, those travellers of the sky (birds) addressed him, saying, ‘O you of small sense (Durbuddhi in Sanskrit), we are those dice. We had come here wishing to take away your cloth, for it pleased us not that you should depart even with your cloth on.’

“Finding himself deprived of his attire, and knowing also that the dice were departing (with it), the Dharmic Nala, O king (Yudhishthira), thus spoke to Damayanti, ‘O faultless one, they through whose anger I have been despoiled of my kingdom, they through whose influence distressed and pained with hunger, I am unable to procure livelihood, they for whom the Nishadhas offered me not any hospitality, they, O friendly one, are carrying off my cloth, assuming the form of birds. Fallen into this terrible disaster, I am pained with grief and deprived of my senses, I am your lord, you do, therefore, listen to the words I speak for your good. These many roads lead to the southern country, passing by (the city of) Avanti and the Rikshavat mountains. This is that mighty mountain called Vindhya (present-day Vindhya mountain range in Madhya Pradesh, India); At a distance, the river Payoshini (present-day Purna river, one of the chief tributaries of Tapti river) running sea-wards, and at a distance are the ashrama of Maharishis, furnished with various fruit and roots. This road leads to the country of the Vidarbhas – and that, to the country of the Kosalas. Beyond these roads to the south is the southern country.’

“Addressing Bhima’s daughter, O Bharata (Yudhishthira), he distressed king Nala spoke those words to Damayanti over and over again. Immediately pained with grief, in a voice choked with tears, Damayanti spoke to Naishadha (Nala) these piteous words, ‘O Maharaja (Nala), thinking of yours purpose, my heart trembles, and all my bodyparts become faint. How can I go, leaving you in the lone forest despoiled of your kingdom and deprived of your wealth, yourself without a garment on, and worn with hunger and toil? When in the deep forest, tired and pained with hunger, you think of your former enjoyment, I will, O great monarch, soothe your tiredness. In every sorrow there is no medicine equal to the wife, say the physicians. It is the truth, O Nala, that I speak to you.’

“Hearing those words of his queen, Nala replied, ‘O slender-waisted Damayanti, it is as you have said. To a man in distress, there is no friend or medicine that is equal to a wife. But I do not seek to renounce you, for what reason, O one who afraid, do you dread this? O faultless one, I can forsake myself but you I cannot forsake.’

“Damayanti then said, ‘If you do not, O Maharaja, intend to forsake me, why then do you point out to me the way to the country of the Vidarbhas? I know, O king, that you would not desert me. But, O lord of the earth, considering that your mind is distracted, you may desert me. O best of men, you repeatedly point out to me the way and it is by this, O one like Deva, that you enhance my grief. If it is your intention that I should go to my relatives, then if it pleases you, both of us will walk to the country of the Vidarbhas. O giver of honours, there the king of the Vidarbhas (Bhima) will receive you with respect. Honoured by him, O king, you shall live happily in our home.’”

60. NALA’S CHILDREN SENT TO VIDHARBHA

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 60 - NALA'S CHILDREN SENT TO VIDHARBHA

Summary: Expecting the worst consequences for Nala in the game of dice, Damayanti summons the charioteer Vaarshneya and asks him to take her children to their father’s home at Vidharbha. Vaarshneya hands over the children at Vidharbha and joins as charioteer to King Rituparna at Ayodhya.

“Brihadashwa said, ‘Bhima’s daughter, the cool-headed Damayanti, seeing the righteous king maddened and deprived of his senses at dice, was filled, O king (Yudhishthira), with alarm and grief. She thought the affair to be a serious one with the king. Apprehensive of the calamity that threatened Nala, yet seeking his welfare and at last understanding that her lord had lost everything, she said to her nurse and maid-servant Brihatsena of high fame, intent upon her good, talented in all duties, faithful and sweet-speeched, these words, ‘Brihatsena, you go and summon the ministers in the name of Nala, and tell them also what of wealth and other things has been lost and what remains.’

“The ministers then, hearing of Nala’s summons, said, ‘This is fortunate for us’ and approached the king. When the subjects in a body had (thus) come a second time, the daughter of Bhima informed Nala of it. But the king regarded her not. Finding her husband disregarding her words, Damayanti, filled with shame, returned to her apartments. And hearing that the dice were uniformly unfavourable to the virtuous Nala, and that he had lost everything, she again spoke to her nurse, saying, ‘O Brihatsena, you go again in Nala’s name to bring here, O blessed one, the charioteer, Vaarshneya. The matter at hand is very serious.’

“Brihatsena, hearing those words of Damayanti caused Vaarshneya to be summoned by trusty servants. The blameless daughter of Bhima (Damayanti), familiar with conduct suitable to time and place, addressing soft words said according to the occasion, ‘You know how the king has always behaved towards you. He is now in difficulty, and it is your duty to assist him. The more the king loses to Pushkara, the greater becomes his intensity for the play. As the dice fall obedient to Pushkara, it is seen that they are adverse to Nala in the matter of the play. Absorbed in the play, he does not listen the words of his friends and relatives, nor even those of mine. I do not think, however, that in this the Mahatma Naishadha (Nala) is to blame, in as much as the king regarded not my words, being absorbed in play. O Charioteer, I seek your protection. Do my instruction. My mind misgives me. The king may come to grief. Attaching Nala’s favourite horses filled with the fleetness of the mind, you do take these twins (my son and daughter) on the chariot and you quickly go to Kundina (Kundina is the capital of the Vidarbha Kingdom). Leaving the children there with my relatives and also the chariot and the horses, either you stay there, or go to any other place as you wish.’

“Vaarshneya, the charioteer of Nala, then reported in detail these words of Damayanti to the chief officers of the king. Having settled (the matter) in consultation with them, and obtaining their assent, O mighty monarch (Yudhishthira), the charioteer started for Vidarbha, taking the children on that chariot. Leaving there the boy Indrasena and the girl Indrasena, and also that best of chariots and those horses, the charioteer, with a sad heart grieving for Nala, gave farewell to Bhima. Wandering for some time, he (Vaarshneya) arrived at the city of Ayodhya. There he appeared with a sorrowful heart before king Rituparna, and entered the service of that monarch as charioteer.’”

59. NALA'S GAME OF DICE

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 59 - NALA'S GAME OF DICE

Summary: Kali possesses Nala; Nala and his brother entered into game of dice; Citizens, ministers and Damayanti try to prevent Nala from gambling but failed to achieve their objective.

“Brihadashwa said, ‘Having made this compact with Dwapara (yuga), Kali (yuga) came to the place where the king of the Nishadhas (Nala) was. Always watching for a hole, he continued to stay in the country of the Nishadhas for a long time. It was in the twelfth year that Kali saw a hole. For one day after urinating, Naishadha touching water said his twilight prayers (Sandhyavandanam in Sanskrit), without having previously washed his feet. It was through this (omission) that Kali entered his body. Having possessed Nala, he (Kali yuga) appeared before (Nala’s brother) Pushkara, and addressed him, saying, ‘Come and play at dice with Nala. Through my assistance you will surely win at the play. Defeating king Nala and acquiring his kingdom, you do rule the Nishadhas.’ Thus, encouraged by Kali, Pushkara went to Nala. Dwapara also approached Pushkara, becoming the principal die called Vrisha. Appearing before the warlike Nala, that slayer of hostile heroes, Pushkara, repeatedly said, ‘Let us play together with dice.’

“Thus, challenged in the presence of Damayanti, the Mahatma king (Nala) could not long decline it. He accordingly fixed the time for the play. Possessed by Kali, Nala began to lose, in the game, his stakes in gold, silver, chariots with the teams thereof, and dresses. Maddened at dice, no one among his friends could succeed in dissuading that represser of enemies from the play that went on. Immediately, O Bharata (Yudhishthira), the citizens in a body, with the chief councillors, came there to see the distressed monarch and make him desist. The charioteer coming to Damayanti spoke to her of this, saying, ‘O lady (Devi in Sanskrit), the citizens and officers of the state wait at the gate. You do inform the king of the Nishadhas that the citizens have come here, unable to bear the calamity that has happened to their king knowledgeable with Dharma and Arthaa.’

“Immediately Bhima’s daughter (Damayanti), overwhelmed with grief and almost deprived of reason by it, spoke to Nala in choked accents, ‘O king, the citizens with the councillors of state, urged by loyalty, stay at the gate desirous of seeing you. It is your duty to grant them an interview.' But the king, possessed by Kali, uttered not a word in reply to his queen of graceful glances, uttering thus her lamentations. At this, those councillors of state as also the citizens, pained with grief and shame, returned to their homes, saying, ‘He lives not.’ O Yudhishthira, it was thus that Nala and Pushkara gambled together for many months, the Dharmic Nala being always worsted.’”

58. KALI YUGA ENRAGED

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 58 - KALI YUGA ENRAGED

Summary: Lokapaalaas meet Kali Yuga and Dwapara Yuga and inform that Damayanti has chosen Nala for her husband; Enraged Kali Yuga has decided to punish Nala and Damayanti.

“Brihadashwa said, ‘When the blazing Lokapaalaas were returning after the daughter of Bhima (Damayanti) had chosen Naishadha, on their way they met Dwapara (Yuga) with Kali (Yuga) approaching towards them. Seeing Kali, Shakra (Lord Indra) - the slayer of Bala and Vritra, said, ‘O Kali, say where you are going with Dwapara.’ Immediately Kali replied to Shakra, ‘Going to Damayanti’s Swayamvara, I will obtain her (for my wife), as my heart is fixed upon that lady.’ Hearing this, (Lord) Indra said with a smile, ‘That Swayamvara is already ended. In our sight, she has chosen Nala for her husband.’

“Thus, answered by Shakra, Kali, that evil of Devas, filled with anger, addressing all those Devas spoke, ‘Since in the presence of Devas, she has chosen a human for her lord, it is meet that she should undergo a heavy doom.’ Upon hearing these words of Kali, Devas answered, ‘It is with our sanction that Damayanti has chosen Nala. What lady is there that would not choose king Nala endued with every virtue (Guna in Sanskrit)? Well-versed in all duties, always conducting himself with Dharma, he has studied four Vedas together with the Puranas that are regarded as the fifth. Leading a life of harmlessness to all creatures, he is truth-telling and firm in his vows, and in his house Devas are ever satisfied by yagnas held according to the ordinance. In that tiger among men – that king resembling a Lokapaalaa, is truth, patience, knowledge, Tapas, purity and self-control, and perfect calmness of soul. O Kali, the fool that wishes to curse Nala bearing such a character, curses himself, and destroys himself by his own act. O Kali, he that seeks to curse Nala crowned with such virtues, sinks into the wide bottomless pit of hell widespread with torments.’ Having said this to Kali and Dwapara, Devas went to heaven.

“When Devas had gone away, Kali said to Dwapara, ‘I am not able, O Dwapara, to suppress my anger. I shall possess Nala, deprive him of his kingdom, and he shall no more sport with Bhima’s daughter. Entering the dice, it is your duty to help me.’”

57. DAMAYANTI SWAYAMVARA

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 57 - DAMAYANTI SWAYAMVARA

Summary: Damayanti Swayamvara begins; Lokapaalaas adopt the appearance of Nala and confuses Damayanti; Damayanti prays to Lokapaalaas; Lokapaalaas accept her request; Damayanti chooses Nala and get married.

“Brihadashwa continued, ‘Then at the sacred hour of the holy lunar day of the auspicious season, king Bhima summoned the kings to the Swayamvara. Hearing of it, all the lords of earth striken with love speedily came there, desirous of (possessing) Damayanti. The monarchs entered the amphitheatre decorated with golden pillars, a lofty portal arch, like mighty lions entering the mountain wilds. Those lords of earth decked with fragrant garlands and polished ear-rings hung with jewels seated themselves on their several seats.

“That sacred assembly of Kings, graced by those tigers among men, resembled the Bhogavati (capital of Naagaloka) swarming with the Naagaas, or a mountain cave with tigers. Their arms were robust resembling iron maces, well-shaped, graceful, and looking like five-headed snakes. Graced with beautiful locks, fine noses, eyes and brows, the face of the kings shined like stars in the sky.

“(When the time came), Damayanti of beautiful face, stealing the eyes and hearts of the princes by her dazzling light, entered the hall. The glances of those Mahatma kings were rivetted to those parts of her person where they had chanced to fall first, without moving at all. When, O Bharata (Yudhishthira), the names of the monarchs were proclaimed, the daughter of Bhima saw five persons all alike in appearance. Seeing them seated there, without difference of any kind in form, doubt filled her mind, and she could not discover which of them was king Nala. At whomever (among them) she looked, she regarded him to be the king of the Nishadhas (Nala). Filled with anxiety, the beutiful one thought within herself, ‘Oh, how shall I distinguish Devas, and how discover the royal Nala?’

“Thinking thus, the daughter of Vidarbha became filled with grief. O Bharata (Yudhishthira), recollecting the marks belonging to Devas, of which she had heard, she thought, ‘Those attributes of Devas, of which I have heard from the elders, do not pertain to any of these deities present here upon the earth.’ Revolving the matter long in her mind, and thinking upon it repeatedly, she decided upon seeking the protection of Devas themselves. Bowing down to them with mind and speech, with folded hands, she addressed them trembling, ‘Since I heard the speech of the swans, I chose the king of the Nishadhas as my lord. For the sake of truth, O, let Devas reveal him to me. As in thought or word I have never deviated from him, O, let Devas, for the sake of that truth, reveal him to me. As Devas themselves have destined the ruler of the Nishadhas to be my lord, O, let them, for the sake of that truth, reveal him to me. As it is for paying homage to Nala that I have adopted this vow (Vrata in Sanskrit), for the sake of that truth, O, let Devas reveal him to me, O, let the noble Lokapaalaas assume their own proper forms, so that I may know the righteous king.’

“Hearing these piteous words of Damayanti, and discovering her fixed resolve, and sincere love for the king of Nishadhas, the purity of her heart and her inclination and regard and affection for Nala, Devas did as they had been requested, and assumed their respective attributes as best they could. Immediately she saw Devas unmoistened with perspiration, with winkless eyes, unfading garlands, unstained with dust, and staying without touching the ground. Naishadha stood revealed to his shadow, his fading garlands, himself stained with dust and sweat, resting on the ground with winking eyes.

“O Bharata (Yudhishthira), discovering Devas and the Dharmic Nala the daughter of Bhima (Damayanti) chose Naishadha according to her truth. The large-eyed lady then shyfully caught the edge of his garment and placed round his neck a garland of exceeding grace. When that fair-complexioned lady had thus chosen Nala for her husband, the kings suddenly broke out into exclamations of ‘Oh!’ and ‘Alas!’ O Bharata (Yudhishthira), Devas and Maharishis in wonder cried ‘Excellent!’ ‘Excellent!’, applauding the king the while.

“O Kauravya (Yudhishthira), the royal son of Veerasena, with heart filled with gladness, comforted the beautiful Damayanti, saying, ‘Since you, O blessed one, have chosen a mortal in the presence of Devas, know me for a husband obedient to your command. O you of sweet smiles, truly do I tell you this that as long as life continues in this body of mine, I will remain yours and yours alone.’ Damayanti also, with folded hands paid homage to Nala in words of like meaning.

“The happy pair (Nala-Damayanti) seeing Agni and the other Devas mentally sought their protection. After the daughter of Bhima had chosen Naishadha (Nala) as her husband, the Lokapaalaas of exceeding brightness with pleased hearts, gave eight boons to Nala. Shakra (Lord Indra), the lord of Shachi, bestowed on Nala the boon that he should be able to see his godship in yagnas and that he should attain to blessed regions thereafter, and Hutaashanaa (Agni) gave him the boon of his own presence whenever Naishadha wished, and also regions bright as himself. Yama granted him subtle taste in food as well as pre-eminence in Dharma. The lord of waters (Varuna) granted Nala his own presence whenever he desired, and also garlands of divine fragrance. Thus, each of them bestowed upon him a couple of boons. Having bestowed these Devas went to heaven. The kings also, having witnessed with wonder Damayanti’s selection of Nala, returned delighted from where they had come.

“On the departure of those mighty monarchs, the Mahatma Bhima, well pleased, celebrated the wedding of Nala and Damayanti. Having stayed there for a time according to his desire, Naishadha (Nala), the best of men, returned to his own city with the permission of Bhima. Having attained that pearl of a woman (Damayanti), the virtuous king, O monarch, began to pass his days in joy, like the slayer of Bala and Vritra (Lord Indra) in the company of Shachi. Resembling the Sun in glory, the king (Nala), full of gladness, began to rule his subjects righteously, and gave them great satisfaction. Like to Yayaati, the son of Nahusha, that intelligent monarch celebrated Ashwamedha (yagna) and many other yagnas with abundant gifts to doers of the yagnas. Like to a very Deva, Nala sported with Damayanti in romantic forest and groves. The high-minded king fathered upon Damayanti a son named Indrasena, and a daughter named Indrasena. Celebrating yagna, and sporting (with Damayanti) thus, the king ruled the earth abounding in wealth.’”

56. DAMAYANTI PROPOSES NALA

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 56 - DAMAYANTI PROPOSES NALA

Summary: Damayanti conveys her love to Nala; Nala asks her to choose one among the Lokapaalaas; Damayanti suggests a way to Nala so that no blame attaches to him; Nala narrates everything to Lokapaalaas.

“Brihadashwa said, ‘Damayanti, having bowed down to Devas, thus addressed Nala with a smile, ‘O king (Nala), love me with proper regard, and command me what I shall do for you. Myself and what else of wealth is mine are yours. Grant me, O noble one, your love in full trust. O king, the language of the swan in burning me. It is for your sake, O brave one, that I have caused the kings to meet. O giver of proper honour, if you forsake me who adore you, for your sake will I resort to poison, or fire, or water or the rope.’

“Thus, addressed by the daughter of the king of the Vidarbhas, Nala answered her saying, ‘With the Lokapaalaas present, you choose a man? Do you turn your heart to those Mahatma lords, the creators of the worlds, to the dust of whose feet I am not equal. Displeasing Devas, a mortal comes across death. Save me, O you of faultless bodyparts! You choose the all-excelling Devas. By accepting Devas, you do enjoy spotless clothes, and divine garlands of multi-coloured colours, and excellent ornaments. What woman would not choose as her lord Hutaashana (Agni) – the chief of Devas, who compassing the earth swallows it? What woman would not choose him as her lord, the dread of whose mace induces all creatures to walk the path of Dharma (Yama)? What woman would not choose as her lord the Dharmatma and Mahatma Mahendra, the lord of Devas, the punisher of Daityas and Danavas? Or, if you could choose in your heart Varuna among the Lokapaalaas, do so unhesitatingly. O accept this friendly advice.’

“Thus, addressed by Naishadha (Nala), Damayanti, with eyes bathed in tears of grief spoke thus to Nala, ‘O lord of the earth, bowing to all Devas, I choose you for my lord. Truly do I tell you this.’ The king, who had come as the messenger of Devas, replied to the trembling Damayanti standing with folded hands, ‘O friendly one, do as you please. Having given my pledge, O blessed one, to Devas in especial, how can I, having come on other’s mission, dare seek my own interest? If seeking my own interest consists with Dharma, I will seek it, and you do also, O beautiful one, act accordingly.’ Then Damayanti of luminous smiles slowly spoke to king Nala, in words choked with tears, ‘O lord of men I see a blameless way, by which no sin whatever will attach to you. O king, you do, O foremost of men, come to the Swayamvara in company with all Devas headed by (Lord) Indra. There, O monarch, in the presence of the Lokapaalaas I will, O tiger among men, choose you – at which no blame will be yours.’

“Thus addressed, O monarch, by the daughter of Vidarbha (Damayanti), king Nala returned to where Devas were staying together. Seeing him approach those great Devas, the Lokapaalaas, eagerly asked him about all that had happened saying, ‘Have you, O king (Nala), seen Damayanti of sweet smiles? What has she said to us all? O sinless monarch, tell us everything.’

“Nala answered, ‘Commanded by you I entered Damayanti’s palace furnished with lofty portals guarded by veteran warders bearing wands. As I entered, no one perceived me, by virtue of your power, except the princess. I saw her hand-maids, and they also saw me. O noble Devas, seeing me, they were filled with wonder. As I spoke to her of you, the fair-faced lady, her will fixed on me, O you best of Devas, chose me (for her spouse). The lady said, ‘Let Devas, O tiger among men, come with you to the Swayamvara, I will in their presence, choose you. At this, O you of mighty arms, no blame will attach to you. This is all, O Devas, that took place, as I have said. Finally, everything rests with you, O foremost of Devas.’”

19. THE RETREAT OF SHAALWA

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > ARJUNAABHIGAMANA PARVA > CHAPTER 19 - THE RETREAT OF SHAALWA

“Vaasudeva continued, ‘Thus addressed, the son of Soota replied quickly to Pradyumna, that foremost of all filled with strength, in these sweet words, ‘O son of Rukmini, I fear not to guide the horses on the battlefield, and also I am familiar with the customs of the Vrishnis in war! It is not otherwise in the least! But, O you blessed with length of days, those that guide the chariot are taught that the warrior on the chariot is, by all means, to be protected by his charioteer! You were also much pained! You were much wounded by the arrows shot by Shaalwa. You were also deprived of your senses, O hero! It is therefore that I retired from the field. But, O chief of the Satwatas (Pradyumna), now that you have regained your senses without much trouble, you do, O son of Keshava, witness my skill in guiding the horses! I have been fathered by Daruka, and I have been duly trained! I will now penetrate into the celebrated array of Shaalwa without fear!’

“Vaasudeva continued, ‘Saying this, O hero (Yudhishthira), the charioteer, pulling the reins, began to lead the horses with speed towards the battlefield. O king (Yudhishthira), struck with the whip and pulled by the reins those excellent horses seemed to be flying in the air, performing various beautiful motion, sometimes circular, sometimes similar, now dissimilar, now to the right, now to the left. O king (Yudhishthira), those horses understanding as it were the intention of Daruka’s son endued with such lightness of hand, burned with energy, and seemed to go without touching the ground with their feet! That bull among men wheeled round Shaalwa’s army so easily that they who witnessed it wondered exceedingly.

“The lord of Saubha (Shaalwa), unable to bear that movement of Pradyumna, instantly sent three arrows at the charioteer of his antagonist (Pradyumna)! The charioteer, however, without taking any note of the force of those arrows, continued to go along the right. Then the lord of Saubha (Shaalwa), O hero (Yudhishthira), again discharged at my son by Rukmini (Pradyumna), a shower of various kinds of weapons! But that slayer of hostile heroes, the son of Rukmini (Pradyumna), showing with a smile his lightness of hand, cut all those weapons off as they reached him. Finding his arrows cut by Pradyumna, the lord of Saubha (Shaalwa), having recourse to the dreadful illusion (Maayaa in Sanskrit) natural to Asuras began to pour a thick shower of arrows.

“But cutting into pieces those powerful Daitya weapons shot at him in mid-career by means of his Brahmaastra, Pradyumna removed winged arrows of other kings. These (weapons) delighting in blood, removing off the weapons of Daitya, pierced his head, chest and face. At those wounds, Shaalwa fell down senseless. On the mean-minded Shaalwa falling down, pained with Pradyumna’s arrows, the son of Rukmini (Pradyumna) aimed another arrow at him, capable of destroying every enemy. Seeing that arrow worshipped by all the Dashaarhas, flaming like fire and fatal as a poisonous snake, fixed on the bow-string, the sky was filled with exclamations of ‘Oh!’ and ‘Alas!’

“Then all Devas with (Lord) Indra and the lord of treasures (Kubera) at their head sent Naarada and Vaayu filled with the speed of the mind. These two approaching the son of Rukmini (Pradyumna) delivered to him the message of Devas, saying, ‘O hero (Pradyumna), king Shaalwa is not to be slain by you! You do draw back the arrow. He is unslayable by you in fight! There breathes no a person who cannot be killed by that arrow! O you of mighty arms, the Creator (Dhaatraa in Sanskrit) has ordained his death at the hands of (Sri) Krishna, the son of Devaki! Let this be not falsified!’ Immediately with a glad heart, Pradyumna withdrew that best of arrows from his excellent bow and deposited it back in his arrowbasket. Then, O foremost of kings, the mighty Shaalwa, afflicted with the arrows of Pradyumna, rose disheartened, and speedily went away. Then O king (Yudhishthira), the wicked Shaalwa, thus pained by the Vrishnis, mounted on his chariot of precious metals (Saubha in Sanskrit), and leaving Dwaaraka speeded through the skies!’”

55. NALA-DAMAYANTI MEET

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 55 - NALA-DAMAYANTI MEET

“Brihadashwa continued, ‘O Bharata (Yudhishthira), Nala pledged his word to Devas saying, ‘I will do it.’ Then approaching these, he asked with folded hands ‘Who are you? And who also is he that desires me to be his messenger? And what, further, shall I have to do for you? O tell me truly!’ When the king of the Nishadhas (Nala) spoke thus, Maghavat (Lord Indra) replied, saying, ‘Know us as the immortals (Amaraa in Sanskrit) arriving here for Damayanti’s sake. I am (Lord) Indra, this one is Agni, this the lord of waters, and this, O king (Nala), is Yama the destroyer of the bodies of men. You do inform Damayanti of our arrival, saying, ‘The guardians of the world (Lokapaalaas in Sanskrit), (consisting of) the great Indra and the others, are coming to the sabha, desirous of seeing (the Swayamvara). Devas, Shakra, Agni, Varuna and Yama, desire to obtain you. You do, therefore, choose one of them for your lord.’

“Thus, addressed by Shakra, Nala said with joined hands, ‘I have come here with the same objective. It is your duty not to send me (on this purpose). How can a person who is himself under the influence of love bring himself to speak thus to a lady on behalf of others? Therefore, spare me, O Devas.’

“Devas, however, said, ‘O ruler of the Nishadhas (Nala), having promised first, saying, ‘I will!’ why will you not act accordingly now? O ruler of the Nishadhas, tell us this without delay.’

“Brihadashwa continued, ‘Thus addressed by those Devas, the ruler of Nishadhas (Nala) spoke again, saying, ‘Those mansions are well-guarded. How can I hope to enter them?’ (Lord) Indra replied, ‘You shall be able to enter.’ Saying, ‘So be it.’ Nala immediately went to the palace of Damayanti. Having arrived there, he saw the daughter of the king of Vidarbha surrounded by her hand-maids, blazing in beauty and excelling in symmetry of form, of bodyparts exceedingly delicate, of slender waist and fair eyes. She seemed to shy away the light of the moon by her own splendour. As he gazed on that lady of sweet smiles, Nala’s love increased, but desirous of keeping his truth, he suppressed his passion. At the sight of Naishadha (Nala), overpowered by his brightness, those first of women sprang up from their seats in amazement. Filled with wonder (at his sight), they praised Nala in gladness of heart. Without saying anything, they mentally paid him homage, ‘Oh, what an appearance! Oh, what gentleness belongs to this Mahatma! Who is he? Is he some Deva or Yaksha or Gandharva?’

“Those foremost of women, confounded by Nala’s splendour and bashfulness would not welcome him at all in speech. Damayanti although herself struck with amazement, smilingly addressed the warlike Nala who also gently smiled at her, saying, ‘Who are you, O you of faultless features, that have come here awakening my love? O sinless one, O hero of divine form, I am anxious to know who you are that have come here. Why have you come here? How is it that you have not been discovered by any one, considering that my apartments are well-guarded and the king’s mandates are stern?’

“Thus addressed by the daughter of the king of the Vidarbhas, Nala replied, ‘O beautiful lady, know that my name is Nala. I come here as the messenger of Devas. Devas, Shakra (Lord Indra), Agni, Varuna and Yama, desire to have you. O beautiful lady, you do choose one of them for your lord. It is through their power that I have entered here unperceived, and it is for this reason that none saw me on my way or obstructed my entrance. O gentle one, I have been sent by the foremost of Devas for this objective. Hearing this, O fortunate one, do what you please.’”

54. DEVAS DESIRED DAMAYANTI

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKHYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 54 - DEVAS DESIRED DAMAYANTI

“Brihadashwa said, ‘O Bharata (Yudhishthira), hearing those words of the swan, Damayanti from that time onwards lost all peace of mind on account of Nala. Heaving frequent sighs, she was filled with anxiety, became sad, pale-faced and lean. With her heart possessed by the god of love, she soon lost colour, and with her upturned looks and modes of pre-occupied mind, looked like one who is mad. She lost all inclination for beds, seats and object of enjoyment. She ceased to lie down by day or night, always weeping with exclamation of ‘Oh!’ and ‘Alas!’ Seeing her uneasiness and she fallen into that condition, her hand-maids represented, O king (Yudhishthira), the matter of her illness to the ruler of Vidarbha by indirect hints. King Bhima, hearing of this from the handmaids of Damayanti, regarded the affair of his daughter to be serious. He asked himself, ‘Why is it that my daughter seems to be so ill now?’ The king, thinking by himself that his daughter had attained to puberty, concluded that Damayanti’s Swayamvara should take place. The monarch, O noble one (Yudhishthira), (invited) all the rulers of the earth, saying, ‘O heroes, know that Damayanti’s Swayamvara is at hand’. All the kings, hearing of Damayanti’s Swayamvara, came to Bhima, agreeable to his message, filling the earth with the sound of their chariots, the roar of their elephants, the neighing of their horses, and accompanied with their fine-looking battalions decorated in ornaments and graceful garlands. The mighty-armed Bhima paid due respect to those Mahatma monarchs. Duly honoured by him they took up their quarters there.’

“At the juncture, those foremost of Devarishis possessed of great splendour, of great wisdom and great vows (Vrata in Sanskrit) namely, Naarada and Parvata, having arrived in course of their wandering at Indraloka entered the mansion of Devaraja, receiving proper worship. Maghavat (Lord Indra) having worshipped them respectfully, inquired after their undisturbed peace and welfare as regards all respects. Naarada said, ‘O lord, O divine one, peace attends us in every respect. O Maghavat, peace attendeth also, O exalted one, the kings of the whole world.’

“Brihadashwa continued, ‘Hearing the words of Naarada, the slayer of Bala and Vritra (Lord Indra) said, ‘Those righteous rulers of the earth who fight renouncing all desire of life, and who meet death when their time is come by means of weapons, without flying from the (battle)field,--theirs is this region, everlasting to them and granting all desires, as it is to me. Where be those Kshatriya heroes? I do not see those kings approach (now). Where are my favourite guests?’

“Thus, addressed by Shakra (Lord Indra), Narada replied, 'Listen, O Maghavat, why you not see the kings (now)? The ruler of the Vidarbhas has a daughter – the celebrated Damayanti. In beauty, she transcends all the women of the earth. Her Swayamvara, O Shakra, will take place shortly. There are going all the kings and princes from all directions. All the lords of the earth desire to have that pearl of the earth – desire to have her eagerly, O slayer of Vala and Vritra.’

“While they were talking thus, those foremost of Devas, the Lokapaalaas with Agni among them, appeared before the lord of Devas. All of them heard the words of Naarada, filled with grave meaning. As soon as they heard them, they exclaimed in happiness, we also will go there. O mighty monarch (Yudhishthira), accompanied by their attendants and mounted on their (respective) vehicles, they set out for the country of Vidarbhaas, where (had gone) all the kings. O Kaunteya (Yudhishthira), the Mahatma king Nala also hearing of that assembly of kings, set out with a cheerful heart, full of Damayanti’s love. (It came to pass) that Devas saw Nala on the way walking on the earth. His form owing to its beauty was like that of the god of love (Manmatha) himself. Seeing him bright as the Sun, the Lokapaalaas were filled with astonishment at his wealth of beauty and abandoned their intention. O king (Yudhishthira), leaving their cars (Vimaana in Sanskrit) in the sky the dwellers of heaven descended from the sky and spoke to the ruler of the Nishadhas, saying, ‘O foremost of monarchs ruling the Nishadhas, O Nala, you are devoted to truth. You do help us. O best of men, you be our messenger.’”

53. SWAN: THE LOVE MESSENGER

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 53 - SWAN: THE LOVE MESSENGER

“Brihadashwa said, ‘There was a king named Nala, the son of Veerasena. He was strong, handsome, well-versed in (the knowledge of) horses, and possessed of every desirable accomplishment. He was at the head of all the kings, like the lord of Devas (Lord Indra). Noble over all, he resembled the Sun in glory. He was the king of the Nishadhas, intent on the welfare of Brahmanas, versed in the Vedas, and possessed of heroism. He was truth-telling, fond of dice, and the master of a mighty army. He was the beloved of men and women, and of great soul and controlled passions. He was the protector (of all), the foremost of bowmen, and like to Manu himself.

“Like him, there was among the Vidarbhaas (a king named) Bhima, of terrible prowess, heroic and well-disposed towards his subjects and possessed of every attribute (Guna in Sanskrit). (But withal) he was childless. With a fixed mind, he tried his utmost for obtaining issue. O Bharata (Yudhishthira), there came to him (once) a Brahmarishi named Damanaa. O king of kings (Rajendra in Sanskrit), desirous of having offspring, Bhima, versed in Dharma, with his queen satisfied that illustrious Rishi by a respectful reception. Damana, well-pleased, granted to the king and his consort a boon in the form of a jewel of a daughter (Kanya Ratnam in Sanskrit), and three exemplary sons possessed of great fame. (And they were called respectively) Damayanti, Dama, Danta, and illustrious Damana.

“The three sons were possessed of every accomplishment (Guna in Sanskrit) and terrible in everything and fierce prowess. The slender-waisted Damayanti, in beauty, brightness, in good name, grace and luck, became celebrated all over the world. On her attaining to age, hundreds of hand-maids, female servants, decorated in ornaments, waited upon her like (Lord Indra’s wife) Sachi Herself. Bhima’s daughter of faultless features, decorated in every ornament, shined in the middle of her hand-maids, like the luminous lightning of the clouds. The large-eyed lady (Damayanti) was possessed of great beauty like that of Sree (Mahalakshmi) Herself. Neither among Devas, nor among Yakshas, nor among men was anybody possessed of such beauty, seen or heard of before. The beautiful lady (Damayanti) filled with gladness the hearts of even Devas.

“That tiger among men, Nala, also did not have his competitor in the (three) worlds: for in beauty he was like Kandarpa (Kamadeva) himself in his embodied form. Moved by admiration, the heralds (Kutoohalaat in Sanskrit) again and again celebrated the praises of Nala before Damayanti and those of Damayanti before the ruler of the Nishadhas. Repeatedly hearing of each other’s virtues (Guna in Sanskrit) they conceived an attachment towards each other not produced of sight, and that attachment, O Kaunteya (Yudhishthira), began to grow in strength. Then Nala was unable to control the love that was in his bosom. He began to pass much of his time in isolation in the gardens adjoining the inner apartment (of his palace). There he saw a number of swans furnished with golden wings, wandering in those forest. From among them he caught one with his hands. Immediately the sky-ranging one (Swan) said to Nala ‘I deserve not to be slain by you, O king. I will do something that is agreeable to you. O king of the Nishadhas, I will speak of you before Damayanti in such a way that she will not ever desire to have any other person (for her lord).’

“Thus addressed, the king (Nala) liberated that swan. Those swans then rose on their wings and went to the country of the Vidarbhas. On arriving at the city of the Vidarbhas the birds descended before Damayanti, who saw them all. Damayanti in the middle of her maids, seeing those birds of extraordinary appearance was filled with delight, and tried without loss of time to catch those travellers of the skies. The swans at this, before that group of beauties, fled in all directions. Those women there pursued the birds, each (running) after one.

“The swan after which Damayanti ran, having led her to an isolated spot, addressed her in human speech, saying, ‘O Damayanti, there is a king among Nishadhas named Nala. He is equal to Ashwins (Ashwini Devas) in beauty, not having his peer among men. Indeed, in comeliness, he is like Kandarpa himself in his embodied form. O fair-complexioned one, O you of slender waist, if you become his wife, your existence and this your beauty may be of purpose. We have, indeed, seen Deva, Gandharvas, Naagas, Raakshasaas, and men, but never saw we before any one like Nala. You also are a jewel among women, as Nala is the prime among men. The union of the best with the best is happy.’

“Thus, addressed by the swan, Damayanti, O monarch (Yudhishthira), replied to him there, saying, ‘You do speak thus to Nala also.’ Saying, ‘So be it’, to the daughter of Vidarbha (Damayanti), the oviparous one, O king (Yudhishthira), returned to the country of the Nishadhas, and narrated everything to Nala.’”

52(B). STORY OF NALA BEGINS

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAKYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 52(B) - STORY OF NALA BEGINS

“Vaishampaayana continued, ‘Thus addressed by Bhima, Dharmaraja Yudhishthira, smelt the crown of that Paandavaa, and pacifying him said, ‘O mighty-armed one, without doubt, you will, assisted by the wielder of the Gaandeeva, slay Suyodhana (Duryodhana) at the expiry of the thirteenth year. But, O Paarthaa (Bhima), as for your assertion, ‘O Lord, the time is complete,’ I cannot dare tell an untruth, for untruth is not in me. O Kaunteya (Bhima), without the help of fraud, you wilt kill the wicked and irrepressible Duryodhana, with his allies.’

“While Dharmaraja Yudhishthira, was speaking to Bhima thus, there came the illustrious and Maharishi Brihadashwa before them. Seeing that Dharmaatma before him, the Dharmaraja worshipped him according to the Shaastraas, with the offering of Madhuparka. When the Rishi (Brihadashwa) was seated and refreshed, the mighty-armed Yudhishthira sat by him, and looking up at the former, addressed him thus in exceedingly piteous accents:

‘O holy one (Bhagawan in Sanskrit), summoned by cunning gamblers skilled at dice, I have been deprived of wealth and kingdom through gambling. I am not skilled at dice and am unacquainted with deceit (Nikruti in Sanskrit). Sinful men, by unfair means, defeated me at play. They even brought into the sabha my wife dearer to me than life itself. Defeating me a second time, they have sent me to distressful exile in this great forest, dressed in deer skins. At present I am leading a distressful life in the forest in grief of heart. Those harsh and cruel speeches they addressed me on the occasion of that gambling match, and the words of my pained friends relating to the match at dice and other subjects, are all stored up in my remembrance. Recollecting them I pass the whole night in (sleepless) anxiety. Also, deprived (of the company) of the Mahatma wielder of the Gaandeeva, on whom depend the lives of us all, I am almost deprived of life. Oh, when shall I see the sweet-speeched and large-hearted Bibhatsu (Arjuna) so full of kindness and activity, return to us, having obtained all weapons? Is there a king on this earth who is more unfortunate than myself? Have you ever seen or heard of any such before? To my thinking, there is no man more wretched than I am.’

“Brihadashwa said, ‘O Maharaja, O Paandavaa, you say, ‘There is no person more miserable than I am.’ O sinless monarch, if you will listen, I will narrate to you the history of a king more wretched than yourself.’

“Vaishampayana continued, ‘Immediately the king (Yudhisthira) said to the Rishi, ‘O illustrious one (Bhagawan in Sanskrit), tell me, I desire to hear the history of the king who had fallen into such a condition.’

“Brihadashwa said, ‘O king, O you that never fall off (Dharma), listen attentively with your brothers, I will narrate the history of a prince more miserable than yourself. There was a celebrated king among the Nishadhas, named Veerasena. He had a son named Nala, versed in (the knowledge of) Dharma and wealth. It has been heard by us that, that king was deceitfully defeated by (his brother) Pushkara, and pained with calamity, he stayed in the forest with his wife. O king, while he was living in the forest, he had neither servants nor chariots, neither brother nor friends with him. But you are surrounded by your heroic brothers like to Devas, and also by foremost Dwijas like to (Lord) Brahma Himself. Therefore, it is your duty not to grieve.’

“Yudhishthira said, ‘I am anxious to hear in detail, O you foremost of eloquent men, the history of the Mahatma Nala. It is your duty therefore to narrate it to me.’”

52(A). BHIMASENA CONVERSES WITH YUDHISHTHIRA

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > NALOPAAKYAANA PARVA > CHAPTER 52(A) - BHIMASENA CONVERSES WITH YUDHISHTHIRA

“Janamejaya said, ‘When the Mahatma Paartha (Arjuna) went to Shakraloka (Indraloka) for obtaining weapons, what did Yudhishthira and other Paandavaas do?’

“Vaishampaayana said, ‘When the Mahatma Paartha went to Shakraloka for obtaining weapons, those bulls of the Bharata race continued to stay with Krishna (Draupadi) in Kaamyaka (forest). One day, those foremost of the Bharatas (Paandavaas), pained with grief, was seated with Krishna on a clean and isolated grass. Grieving for Dhananjaya, overwhelmed with sorrow, their voices were choked with weeping. Tortured by Dhananjaya’s absence, grief pained them equally. Filled with sorrow at their separation from Arjuna and at the loss of their kingdom, the mighty-armed Bhima among them addressed Yudhishthira, saying, ‘That Bull of the Bharata race, Arjuna, O Maharaja, on whom depend the lives of Paandavaas, and on whose death the Paanchalaas and also ourselves with our sons, Saatyaki and Vaasudeva are sure to die, has gone away at your command. What can be sadder than this that the Dharmaatma Bibhatsu has gone away at your command, thinking of his many griefs? Depending upon the might of that Mahatma hero’s arms, (we) regard our enemies as already defeated in battle, and the whole earth itself as already acquired by us.

“It was for the sake of that mighty warrior (Dhanushmata in Sanskrit) that I refrained from sending to the other world all the Dhaartaraashtras along with the Saubalas, in the middle of the sabha. Gifted with might of arms, supported by Vaasudeva, we have to suppress the anger that has been roused in us, because you are the root of that anger. Indeed, with (Sri) Krishna’s help, slaying our enemies headed by Karna, we are able to rule the entire earth (thus) conquered by our own arms. Filled with manliness, we are yet overwhelmed with calamities, in consequence of your gambling evil, while the foolish bull of Dhritarashtra are growing stronger with the tributes (Bali in Sanskrit) (gathered from dependent kings).

“O Maharaja, it is your duty to keep in view of the Kshatriya Dharma. O Maharaja, it is not the dharma of a Kshatriya to live in the forest. The wise are of the opinion that to rule is the foremost dharma of a Kshatriya. O king, you are knowledgeable with Kshatriya Dharma. Do not, therefore, deviate from the path of Dharma. Turning away from the forest, let us, summoning Paarthaa (Arjuna) and Janaardana (Sri Krishna), slay, O king, the sons of Dhritarashtra, before the twelve years are complete.

“O illustrious monarch, O Maharaja, even if these Dhartarashtras be surrounded by soldiers in array of battle, I shall send them to the other world by blow of might alone. I shall slay all the sons of Dhritarashtra along with Saubalas, indeed, Duryodhana, Karna, and any one else that will fight with me. After I shall have slain all our enemies, you may come back to the forest. By acting thus, O king, no fault will be yours. (Or if any sin be yours), O represser of enemies, O Maharaja, washing it off, by various yagnas, we may ascend to a superior heaven. Such an achievement may come to pass, if our king proves not unwise or delaying. You are, however, virtuous. Certainly, the deceitful should be destroyed by deceit. To slay the deceitful by deceit, is not regarded as sinful.

“O Bharata, it is, also said by those versed in Dharma that one day and night is, O Maharaja, equal to a full year. The Veda text also, O Maharaja, is often heard, signifying that a year is equivalent to a day when passed in the observance of certain difficult vows (Vrata in Sanskrit). O you of unfading glory, if Vedas are an authority with you, you regard the period of a day and something more as the equivalent of thirteen years. O represser of enemies, this is the time to slay Duryodhana with his followers. Else, O king, he will beforehand bring the whole earth obedient to his will. O foremost of monarchs, all this is the result of your addiction to gambling.

“We are on the verge of destruction already, in consequence of your promise of living one year undiscovered. I do not find the country where, if we live, the wicked-minded Suyodhana (Duryodhana) may not be able to trace us by his spies. Finding us out, that wretch will again deceitfully send us into such exile in the forest. Or if that sinful one sees us emerge, after the expiry of the pledged period of non-discovery, he will again invite you, O Mahararaja, to dice, and the play will once more begin. Summoned once more, you will again erase yourself at dice.

“You are not skilled at dice, and when summoned at play, you will be deprived of your senses. Therefore, O Maharaja, you will have to lead a life in the forest again. If, O Maharaja, it is your duty not to make us wretched for life, you fully observe the ordinance of the Vedas, (which says that) certainly the deceitful ought to be slain by deceit. If I but have your command I would go (to Haastinapura) and, as fire falling upon a heap of grass consume it, would slay Duryodhana, putting forth my utmost might. It is your duty, therefore, to grant me the permission.’

51. SANJAYA’S INTELLIGENCE TO DHRITARASHTRA

SRIMAD MAHABHARATA > AARANYA PARVA > INDRALOKA GAMANA PARVA > CHAPTER 51 - SANJAYA’S INTELLIGENCE TO DHRITARASHTRA

“Vaishampaayana said, ‘That bull among men – Dhritarashtra – the son of Ambika, having heard of this wonderful way of life – so above that of men – of Paandavaas, was filled with anxiety and grief. Overwhelmed with sadness, sighing heavily and hot, that monarch, addressing his charioteer Sanjaya, said, ‘O charioteer, I do not have a moment’s peace, either during the day or the night, thinking of the terrible misbehaviour of my sons arising out of their past gambling, and thinking also of the heroism, the patience, the high intelligence, the unbearable prowess, and the extraordinary love to one another of the Paandavaas. Among the Paandavaas, the illustrious Nakula and Sahadeva, of divine origin and equal to the chief of Devas Himself (Lord Indra) in splendour, are invincible in battle. They are firm in the wielding of weapons, capable of shooting at a long distance, determined in battle, of remarkable lightness of hand, of anger that is not easily quelled, possessed of great steadiness, and filled with activity. Possessed of the prowess of lions and unbearable as the Ashwins (Ashwini Devas) themselves, when they will come to the battlefield with Bhima and Arjuna in front, I see, O Sanjaya, that my soldiers will all be slain without a remain. Those mighty warriors of divine origin, unrivalled in battle by anybody, filled with anger at the remembrance of that insult to Draupadi, will show no forgiveness. The mighty warriors of the Vrishnis also, the Paanchaalaas of great energy, and Paarthaas (Paandavaas) themselves, led by Vaasudeva of unbaffled prowess, will blast my army. O charioteer, all the warriors on my side assembled together, are not competent to bear the momentum of the Vrishnis alone when commanded by (Bala)Rama and (Sri) Krishna. Amongst them will move that great warrior Bhima of terrible prowess, armed with his iron mace held on high and capable of slaying every hero. High above the uproard will be heard the twang of the Gaandeeva loud as the thunder of sky. The momentum of Bhima’s mace and the loud twang of the Gaandeeva are incapable of being stood against by any of the kings on my side. O Sanjaya, it is then that obedient, as I have been to the voice of Duryodhana, I shall have to call back the rejected counsels of my friends – counsels that I should have attended to in time.’

“Sanjaya said, ‘This has been your great fault, O king, viz., that though capable, you did not, from affection prevent your son from doing what he has done. Madhusoodana (Sri Krishna), that hero of unfading glory, hearing that the Paandavaas had been defeated at dice, soon went to the Kaamyaka forest and consoled them there. Draupadi’s sons also headed by Dhrishtadyumna, Viraataa, Dhrishtaketu, and those mighty warriors (Maharatha in Sanskrit), the Kekayas, all went there. All that was said by these warriors at the sight of Paandavaas defeated at dice, was learnt by me through our spies. I have also told you all, O king. When Madhusoodana (Sri Krishna) met Paandavaas, they requested him to become the charioteer of Phaalguna (Arjuna) in battle. Hari (Sri Krishna) Himself, thus requested, answered them, saying, ‘So be it.’ (Sri) Krishna Himself seeing Paarthaas dressed in deer skins, became filled with anger, and addressing Yudhishthira, said, ‘That prosperity which Paarthaas had acquired at Indraprasthaa, and which, unobtainable by other kings, was seen by me at the Raajasooya yagna, at which, besides, I saw all kings, those of Vanga, Anga, Paundra, Odra, Cholas, Dravidas and Andhakas, and the chiefs of many islands and countries on the sea-board as also of frontier states, including the rulers of the Sinhalas, Barbara, Mlecchas, the natives of Lanka, all the kings of the West by hundreds, all the chiefs of the sea-coast, the kings of the Pahlavas, Daradaa, the various tribes of the Kiraataas, Yavanaas, Chakaas, the Harahunas, Chinas, Tushaaras, the Saindhavas, the Jaagudaas, the Raamathaas, the Mundaas and the inhabitants of the kingdom of women, the Tanganaas, the Kekayas, the Malavaas, the inhabitants of Kaashmeera, afraid of the prowess of your weapons, present in obedience to your invitation, performing various offices,--that prosperity, O king (Yudhishthira), so unstable and waiting at present on the enemy, I shall restore to you, depriving your enemy of his very life.

“I shall, O Kaurava (Yudhishthira), assisted by (Bala)Rama, Bhima, Arjuna, the twins (Nakula and Sahadeva), Akrura, Gada, Saamba, Pradyumna, Aahuka, the heroic Dhrishtadyumna, the son of Shishupaalaa, slay in battle in course of a day Duryodhana, Karna, Duhshaasana, Saubala (Shakuni) and all others who may fight against us. You shall, O Bharata, living at Haastinapura along with your brothers, and snatching from Dhritarashtra’s party the prosperity they are enjoying, rule this earth.’

“These, O king (Dhritarashtra), were (Sri) Krishna’s words to Yudhishthira, who, on the conclusion of (Sri) Krishna’s speech, addressed Him in that meeting of heroes and in the hearing of all those brave warriors headed by Dhrishtadyumna, saying, ‘O Janaardana, I accept these words of Yours as truth. O You of mighty arms, You do, however, slay my enemies along with all their followers on the expiry of thirteen years.

“O Keshava (Sri Krishna), promise this truly to me. I promised in the presence of the king to live in the forest as I am now living.’ Accepting to these words of Dharmaraja Yudhishthira, his counsellors headed by Dhrishtadyumna soon pacified the angered Keshava (Sri Krishna) with sweet words and expressions suitable to the occasion. They also said to Draupadi of pure deeds in the hearing of Vaasudeva Himself, these words, ‘O lady, in consequence of your anger, Duryodhana shall lay down his life. We promise it, O you of the fairest complexion. Therefore, do not grieve any more. O Krishna (Draupadi), those that mocked you, seeing you won at dice, shall reap the fruit of their act. Beasts of prey and birds shall eat their flesh and mock them thus. Jackals and vultures will drink their blood. O Krishna (Draupadi), you shall see the bodies of those wretches that dragged you by the hair fallen on the earth, dragged and eaten by carnivorous animals. They also that gave you pain and disregarded you shall lie on the earth devoid of their heads, and the earth herself shall drink their blood.’ These and other speeches of various kinds were uttered there, O king (Dhritarashtra), by those bulls of the Bharata race. All of them are filled with energy, bravery, and marked with the marks of battle. On the expiration of the thirteenth year, those mighty warriors, chosen by Yudhishthira and headed by Vaasudeva, will come (to the field of battle). (Bala)Rama, (Sri) Krishna, Dhananjaya, Pradyumna, Saamba, Yuyudhana, Bhima, the sons of Madri, the Kekaya princes and the Paanchaalaa princes, accompanied by the king of Matsya, these all, illustrious and celebrated and invincible heroes, with their followers and troops, will come. Who is there that, desiring to live, will encounter these in battle, resembling angry lions of erect manes?’

“Dhritarashtra said, ‘What Vidura told me at the time of the game at dice, ‘If you seek, O king, to vanquish the Paandavaas (at dice), then certainly a terrible blood-shed ending in the destruction of all the Kurus will be the result,’ I think it is about to be realised. As Vidura told me previously, without doubt a terrible battle will take place, as soon as the pledged period of the Paandavaas expires.’”