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MBK: 1.41: The Kings Choose Sides
Chapter 41 The Kings Choose Sides
While both the Kauravas and Pandavas were preparing for war, Krsna and the Yadavas returned
to Dwaraka. Duryodhana heard of Krsna's arrival and decided to go personally to ask His assistance.
Having learned from his spies of the Pandavas' preparations, the Kuru monarch had already
sent messengers to every part of the globe to seek other kings' assistance, but Krsna
was so powerful that He warranted a personal request. Krsna and the Yadavas were the greatest
warriors on earth. If Duryodhana could secure their assistance, then the Pandavas would
stand no chance. Krsna was their main support. Accompanied only by a few bodyguards, Duryodhana
mounted the best of his horses and set out for Dwaraka at a gallop.
In Virata, Arjuna also thought of Krsna. After consulting Yudhisthira, he too decided to
go personally to seek his friend's help. Leaving in a swift chariot he soon arrived in Dwaraka.
As he reached Krsna's palace, he saw the palace guards receiving Duryodhana. The two princes,
after greeting each other in a friendly way, went together to Krsna's chamber. They found
Him asleep on a large bed. One of His wives was fanning Him gently. Duryodhana went straight
to the head of the bed and sat down, but Arjuna remained at Krsna's feet, standing with palms
folded and gazing at His face with tears of affection in his eyes.
After a while Krsna awoke. As He opened His eyes He saw Arjuna, who bowed to Him in love.
Then Krsna sat up and saw Duryodhana by His head. He immediately welcomed both visitors.
After honoring them, He inquired why they had each come.
Duryodhana replied, "It is well known that You are equally disposed toward both myself
and Arjuna. I have come here to seek Your assistance in the war which will soon be fought
among us. Indeed, O killer of Madhu, I arrived before Arjuna and thus it is only right that
You assist me rather than him. This is the practice of good men, and You, Krsna, are
the best of men." Krsna looked smilingly at Duryodhana. "I accept that you arrived first,
O King, but I saw first Arjuna. Therefore, I think I will help both of you. Scripture
ordains that one should help the youngest first, so I will first offer My assistance
to Arjuna. I have an army of one million soldiers known as the Narayanas, all equal to Me in
battle. Let one of you take them and let the other take Me alone. But I will not fight.
Indeed, I plan to leave My weapons aside during the entire battle. O son of Kunti, what do
you choose?"
Without hesitating Arjuna chose Krsna. Duryodhana could hardly conceal his joy. Arjuna's sentimentality
had overpowered his reason. He had forsaken Krsna's invincible army in favor of Krsna
Himself, who would not even fight. What a mistake!
Smiling slightly, Duryodhana said, "It seems then that I am left with the army. With Your
permission, O Kesava, I shall now depart."
Having received Krsna's army, Duryodhana thanked him and left. He made his way to Balarama's
palace. He knew that Balarama was always favorable toward him. Surely He would take his side
in the war. Duryodhana found Balarama seated in His palace. After greeting Him with words
of affection and praise, Duryodhana submitted his plea.
Balarama, His hand resting on His plow weapon, looked grave. "O son of Kuru, for your sake
I spoke out in Virata's assembly at the time of Abhimanyu's marriage. I pointed out to
Krsna that our relations with you and the Pandavas are equal, and that your cause is
as just as that of the Pandavas. O hero, Kesava did not accept My words. I cannot for a moment
exist apart from Krsna. Therefore, I have decided to help neither side. I will take
no part whatsoever in the upcoming war. Fight according to ksatriya principles, O best of
men. May good fortune be yours."
Balarama stood up and embraced Duryodhana. Knowing that Krsna had sided with the Pandavas,
He considered the Kauravas already defeated. Duryodhana left Balarama's palace and went
to see Krtavarma, the Yadava commander-in-chief. He asked for his help and Krtavarma, in accordance
with ksatriya custom, could not refuse. He agreed to fight on the Kaurava side along
with the million warriors already given by Krsna. He thus gathered the army and prepared
to leave with Duryodhana. Surrounded by the terrible-looking forces, and with Krtavarma
by his side, Duryodhana headed back toward Hastinapura with a light heart.
In Krsna's chamber, Arjuna and Krsna were alone. Krsna asked, "Why did you choose Me
knowing I will not fight over My army?"
"There is no doubt that wherever You are there will be victory. If You desired it, You could
slay all the Kurus. In Your presence, O foremost among men, I too will be able to kill them
all. You are the most famous and illustrious person in the world and I will attain a similar
fame by gaining victory in this war. O Krsna, it has long been my desire that You act as
my charioteer. Please fulfill my desire, if You find it acceptable."
"It is fitting, O son of Kunti, that you measure yourself against Me," Krsna replied softly.
He placed a bejeweled hand on Arjuna's shoulder. "I shall gladly act as your charioteer. Let
your desire be fulfilled."
The two friends spent some time together in Dwaraka and then prepared to leave. Surrounded
by many Yadu chiefs and warriors, they set off for Virata.
King Salya of Madras received news about the impending war. As the brother of Pandu's second
wife, Madri, he wanted to assist his nephews, the Pandavas. He had already formed a strong
friendship with Yudhisthira, and he longed to see him again. Taking his army he left
his city to go to Virata. While traveling, Salya's army occupied an area of four square
miles. With their flashing armor and bright pennants, they appeared like a moving sea
covered with gems. They traveled in slow marches toward Virata, shaking the earth and sending
up massive clouds of dust.
Hearing that the Madras army was on the move, Duryodhana arranged a regal reception for
them along the way. He had palaces erected in charming spots, well-decorated with gems.
The Kaurava sent artistes for their entertainment and had the best of food and drink laid out
for the entire army. Artificial lakes adorned with lotuses and fountains were constructed,
with fine seats arranged around them. As Salya approached each place he was greeted by thousands
of Brahmins, who received him with worship and adoration. He was shown to a palace that
would have been suitable for the gods.
Greeted with honors befitting Indra, Salya was pleased, thinking too highly of himself
and too little of the king of the gods. Assuming that Yudhisthira had made all the arrangements,
he asked his servants, "Where are Yudhisthira's men? Fetch them, for I would like to reward
them."
The servants looked surprised. They went to Duryodhana, who had remained concealed from
Salya, and informed him of everything. When Salya had become so pleased that he was ready
to give away even his life, Duryodhana revealed himself. Bowing before his maternal uncle,
the Kaurava prince said, "You are welcome. Please instruct me what else I can do for
you."
It was Salya's turn to be surprised. He embraced Duryodhana and replied, "I am satisfied by
your reception. Ask from me what you may desire."
Duryodhana folded his palms. "Grant me an auspicious boon, O illustrious man. Become
a leader in my army."
Salya realized that he had been tricked, but out of honor he could not refuse Duryodhana's
request. He replied, "It is done. What else do you desire?"
Duryodhana said that he had no other desire. With joy he continued to repeat Salya's words:
"It is done."
Disappointed that he would now be opposing the Pandavas in battle, Salya said, "O King,
O best among men, go back to your capital. You shall soon see me there, but first I want
to see Yudhisthira. Then I will come and join your army."
"You may go, but please return quickly. I am depending on you. Do not forget your promise."
After embracing, the two men parted and Salya continued on to Virata. He saw the Pandavas
there and was greeted by all of them with respect. They embraced him and sat him on
a beautiful seat. Salya gazed at his nephews with tear-filled eyes. "It is good to see
all you heroes hale and hearty after your exile. How have you passed these last thirteen
years? Nothing but misery attends one who has lost a kingdom; but now your suffering,
brought on by Dhrtarastra's son, will end as you slay your enemies."
Salya looked at Yudhisthira sitting at his feet. "O great devotee of God, no one has
seen even a trace of greed in your character. Like the rsi kings of old you exhibit self-control,
forgiveness, truth, nonviolence, and all the other qualities that are so rare in this world.
You are mild, generous, religious, and attached to virtue. O chief among kings, it is fortunate
that I am able to see you freed at last from your difficulties."
Salya then told Yudhisthira about his meeting with Duryodhana and his promise to the Kaurava
prince.
Although Yudhisthira was disappointed, he agreed that it was a point of honor. He said,
"O King, you have done the right thing by granting such a boon when you were pleased
at heart. You had no choice and I do not criticize you for it. Still, I have a request. You can
do us a great favor in the coming war with our cousins. It is well known that you are
a charioteer without equal in this world. I have no doubt that when the final battle
takes place between Arjuna and Karna, you will be asked to drive Karna's chariot. At
that time you should do whatever you can to discourage Karna and take away his energy
to fight. Although it is improper to ask this of you, O hero, still I ask it out of fear
of the suta's son. We must by any and all means defeat that evil-minded one."
Salya felt pleased that, although he had been forced into fighting for Duryodhana, there
was still something he could do for Yudhisthira. The news of the Pandavas' exile had greatly
upset him. It was outrageous that the Kurus had allowed such a thing to happen. His brother-in-law
Pandu would have been mortified if he had been alive. How could the Kurus expect any
good fortune when they injured men of the Pandavas' caliber, and especially when they
insulted a woman like Draupadi?
Salya said, "I will surely do as you ask, O noble-minded one. I do not doubt that Duryodhana
will have me drive Karna's chariot. At that time I will say those things which are calculated
to deprive him of energy. O King, all the miseries you have endured at Duryodhana and
Karna's hands will soon give rise to your happiness. This is the way of the world, O
hero. Do not blame yourself. Everything is under the control of supreme destiny. It is
the Lord's arrangement only that great personalities like you suffer difficulties. Even the gods
are sometimes obliged to suffer. I have heard that Indra has had to endure much misery,
along with his queen."
Yudhisthira asked Salya to tell the story of Indra and how he had suffered. The Madras
king recited the history in detail. Salya was well known for his wisdom and knowledge,
and even the Brahmins came forward to hear him speak.
After speaking with the Pandavas for hours, it was time for Salya to depart. Yudhisthira
again worshipped him with due honor and reminded him of his promise. Assuring Yudhisthira that
he would do whatever he could to assist him, Salya bid the Pandavas farewell and made his
way to Hastinapura.
Soon after Salya's departure, Satyaki returned from Dwaraka. He brought with him a huge army
consisting of chariots, horsemen, elephants and infantry. Bearing battle axes, swords,
spears, lances, mallets, clubs, maces and bows of all sorts, the army appeared like
clouds with lightning. A full akshauhini in number, it merged with Yudhisthira's forces
like a river entering the sea.
One after another, different kings came to Yudhisthira's side. Dhristaketu, the king
of the Cedis, came with another akshauhini division, as did the king of Magadha, Jayatsena.
The two kings Pandya and Virata also each supplied an akshauhini of powerful warriors.
Finally, Drupada brought his army, assembled from various countries and led by his two
sons, which amounted to two full akshauhinis. Within only a few months, seven akshauhinis
stood ready at Virata to fight for the Pandavas.
In Hastinapura, various other kings were coming to assist Duryodhana. They amassed eleven
akshauhinis. The soldiers crowded Hastinapura and its surrounding regions so that there
was hardly any free space anywhere. Duryodhana had arranged for a vast army of vaisyas and
sudras, greater in number than even the warriors themselves, to ensure that the soldiers received
sufficient care while they awaited the order to march into battle. All that remained to
be done was to meet with the Pandavas or their emissaries. If no agreement could be reached末and
Duryodhana planned for no agreements末then the war would begin. The Kurus, informed that
a messenger was on his way, waited expectantly.
Drupada's priest arrived at Hastinapura soon after the troops had assembled. As he approached
the city from a distance, he saw those soldiers camped everywhere like masses of clouds descended
to earth. Entering Hastinapura, he made his way through the crowds and came to Dhrtarastra's
palace, where he was received by the king himself, along with Bhisma and Vidura. They
brought him straight to the royal court. After worshipping him with arghya and other offerings,
they invited him to address the assembly.
Looking around at the many kings and ministers seated in Dhrtarastra's great hall, the priest
spoke. "As you all know, Dhrtarastra and Pandu are brothers. Therefore, their claim to their
paternal kingdom is equal. No one doubts this to be true. Yet although Dhrtarastra's sons
have inherited their share of the kingdom, the Pandavas have been denied theirs. Dhrtarastra's
sons wrested the Pandavas' kingdom and wealth which they fairly acquired through the practice
of virtue. Even before that, the Kauravas attempted to kill their honest cousins in
different ways. Because the Pandavas' life duration has still not expired, the Kauravas
were unsuccessful in their attempts. Despite all this, Yudhisthira bears no ill will toward
them. He has accepted all tribulations without complaint. Now he wishes only to have his
rightful property returned. Although he has suffered the severest miseries末in this court,
in the forest, and at Virata末he does not long for war."
The priest paused and looked at Dhrtarastra. The blind king shifted uncomfortably on his
throne. Shafts of sunlight entered through the latticed windows, illuminating his pained
expression. By his side Bhisma and Vidura slowly shook their heads, remembering again
the terrible day when Pandu's sons had been sent away. They looked intently at the priest
as he continued.
"The Pandavas wish for a peaceful settlement. They do not want to gain back what is theirs
by ruining the world. Forgetting their troubles these last thirteen years, they are prepared
to live in friendship with their cousins. But their kingdom must be returned. They have
gathered seven akshauhinis and prepared them for battle. Although you have a greater force,
you should not consider yourselves more powerful. The Pandavas have Krsna on their side, who
possesses inconceivable power. They are also assisted by Drupada, Pandya, Drstadyumna,
Sikhandi and other mighty monarchs. Each of the Pandava brothers is a maharatha. Arjuna
alone exceeds the strength of your entire army, O descendents of Bharata. What man would
dare face Dhananjaya when he comes out to fight, his chariot guided by the immortal
Kesava? Therefore act according to virtue. Give back what should be returned. Do not
miss this opportunity."
The assembly remained silent when the priest had stopped speaking. Everyone's eyes turned
toward Dhrtarastra. It was up to him to respond. The Kuru monarch said nothing. Duryodhana
smiled and glanced at Karna. This old priest was wasting his time. They had an army almost
twice the size of the Pandavas' forces. Where was the question of surrendering anything
to Yudhisthira? The Kaurava prince looked around the assembly at the silent kings and
ministers.
Bhisma broke the silence. He thanked and praised the priest with gentle words. Then he said,
"O learned one, it is fortunate that the Pandavas are doing well and that they have secured
the assistance of many kings. It is especially fortunate that Damodara, Krsna, has taken
their part. It is fortunate indeed that they desire to act virtuously and that they wish
for peace. You have spoken the truth. Your words are sharp, in keeping with your status
as a Brahmin. All the Pandavas have borne many troubles and are certainly entitled to
their father's wealth. Not even the holder of the thunderbolt could keep that from them,
what to speak of those bearing the bow. There is little doubt, as you say, that Arjuna alone
can defeat our army. He could stand against the three worlds."
Karna sprung to his feet. Catching Duryodhana's eye he barked at the priest, insolently interrupting
Bhisma. "O Brahmin, you are wasting your time. Yudhisthira was fairly defeated and went to
the forest in accordance with his vow. I do not believe that the prescribed term has even
ended. Why then are the Pandavas demanding their kingdom? Duryodhana will not yield even
an inch of land out of fear, but out of virtue he could give the entire earth. Let the Pandavas
first keep their vow and then come humbly before Duryodhana, who will doubtlessly afford
them refuge. If they desire to abandon righteousness and seek battle, however, they will meet only
grief."
Karna glared. Both he and Duryodhana refused to accept that the Pandavas had fulfilled
their vow. They did not believe that Bhisma's astronomical calculations were correct. According
to their own estimations, there were a few months left. Duryodhana would not even consider
negotiating with the Pandavas. The prince nodded in agreement as his friend spoke.
Bhisma turned toward Karna. "O son of Radha, why do you talk so much? Do you not recall
how during the fight in the Matsya kingdom Arjuna single-handedly defeated all of our
principal warriors, including you? You have seen his prowess often enough. If we do not
do what this Brahmin says, we will all be killed."
Some of the kings present agreed with Bhisma while others praised Karna. The hall buzzed
with voices and Dhrtarastra raised his hand for silence. He rebuked Karna, then solaced
Bhisma. Then he addressed the assembly: "In my opinion, Bhisma has spoken well. He speaks
for our interests and for the interests of the entire world. I need time to deliberate.
Let the assembly be adjourned. O Brahmin, go back to the Pandavas and tell them that
I shall send Sanjaya soon with my reply."
After the priest had been worshipped by Dhrtarastra's court Brahmins, he left the assembly. Everyone
then returned to their own abodes, leaving Dhrtarastra alone with his personal servants.
The blind king pressed his hands together. There was no doubt that Bhisma had spoken
wisely, as he always did. Dhrtarastra could not ignore his assessment of the situation,
especially when it was shared by Vidura, Drona and Krpa. These were all learned and virtuous
men. Now they were imploring him to control Duryodhana and return Yudhisthira's kingdom
to him.
But whenever he spoke to his son he felt powerless in his hands. Even when he tried to instruct
Duryodhana in righteousness, Duryodhana simply laughed. The prince's view of righteousness
did not include justice for the Pandavas. It seemed that Providence was in control and
that they were all moving inevitably toward some divine plan. Dhrtarastra sighed and loosened
his heavy royal robes. Perhaps he should take stern action and have his son chastised and
even imprisoned, but he simply felt unable. All he could do was advise the prince for
his own good. After that, it was between him and his own destiny how he chose to act.
The king called for Sanjaya. Sanjaya was intelligent and affectionate toward the Pandavas; he would
certainly be the best man to send as an envoy to them. He would know what to say to pacify
them. Perhaps he would even be able to prevent a war.
Sanjaya entered the room and, after he had announced himself, Dhrtarastra said, "O Sanjaya,
the sons of Pandu are now living in Virata. Please go to them and convey my feelings.
O learned one, I have never heard of faults in those men. Even now, after suffering so
much at our hands, they remain friendly toward us. They act only to acquire virtue and never
fall into ignorance, folly or laziness. Those heroes have conquered their senses and live
only for others' benefit. They have no enemies other than that great weak-brained fool, my
son, Duryodhana, and the still meaner Karna. Duryodhana is strong only at the beginning
of endeavors because he is so given to indulgence. Still, he thinks himself capable of robbing
the Pandavas of their rightful share. Who could hope to stand against Yudhisthira, Kesava,
Arjuna, Bhima, Madri's twin sons, Satyaki, and the other great kings? Indeed, Arjuna
alone, with Krsna guiding his chariot, can subdue the three worlds. His arrows fly in
clouds, roaring like thunder and sweeping away everything in their path."
Dhrtarastra had thought about the upcoming battle again and again. He knew his sons did
not stand a chance. Although they had a bigger army, that would not stop the Pandavas, assisted
as they were by Krsna, from winning.
Dhrtarastra revealed his fears to Sanjaya. "No one can hope to conquer Krsna; He is always
victorious. He is the best of all men and the Lord of the worlds. With His support the
Pandavas could, I am certain, stand against the celestial host, headed by Indra and Mahadeva.
Just He and Arjuna together have already shown their power at Khandava. What then can we
expect when they are united with Bhima and the twins? Our army is finished! The Pandavas'
power is inestimable. O Sanjaya, let me tell you about the other kings who have rallied
to their cause."
Dhrtarastra had already heard from his spies about the situation in Virata. After listing
all the kings supporting the Pandavas, he again turned to the discussion of Krsna. It
was Krsna he feared. Just see how easily He had slain the mighty Sisupala, Naraka, Kamsa,
and so many others. "He is surely Visnu incarnate. Thinking of Krsna's power and Visnu's deeds
in former ages, I find no peace, O son of Gavalgani. Perhaps the only person I fear
more is Yudhisthira. I do not fear anyone as I fear him. He has long practiced austerity
and dedicated himself to virtue. Whoever receives his wrath will be consumed like a reed falling
into fire. His cause is just. This also frightens me.
"Therefore, go on a swift car to the high-minded Pandava and speak affectionate and kind words.
Tell him that I desire peace and will comply with any request he makes. Inquire after his
welfare and that of his friends and followers. Say whatever you feel is appropriate to promote
the interests of our race. Do not speak anything which will give rise to hostility."
Without offering assurance that the Pandavas would regain their kingdom, Dhrtarastra gave
his own message to Sanjaya and then asked him to leave at once.