Parva Sangraha Parva

 

 

Adhyaya 2

 

 

The story of Samantapancaka

 

The Rishis said:

We wish to hear, O son of Suta, all about the place you called Samantapancaka.   1 (p.22)

 

Sauti said :

Hear, O Vipra, the sacred words I say, You are fit, 0 best of men, to hear them.   2

 

To obtain this type of sacred literature, there must be a qualified speaker and an equally qualified audience. Here Suta Gosvami states that the Brahmanas present were qualified to hear the Maha-bharata

 

At the end of Treta and in the beginning of Dvapara Yuga, the greatest of all that ever wielded arms, Parasurama, being impatient of wrongs, repeatedly destroyed all the Ksatriya races of the world.   3

 

This verse establishes the fact that Parasurama came into this world during this Maha Yuga, when Treta Yoga takes place before Dvapara Yuga. Indeed the natural procession would be that Dvapara Yuga is the second and Treta the third. However, the opposite occurs during this Kalpa

 

That fiery Rama, after destroying the Ksatriyas by his own prowess, made five lakes of blood at Samantapancaka.  4

 

The word dyuti is translated as “fiery”. Its naturale meaning is resplendent but fiery may be accepted.

 

According to some, #Samantapancaka means “the five lakes of kings”.

 

We have heard, that being very angry, he offered oblations to the manes of his ancestors, standing in the bloody water of these lakes.  5

 

Parasurama could not appease his anger but at the same time he feared the karmic effect of so many kills. So he thought about how to lighten the burden by calling his ancestors.

 

Thereupon Ricika and others of his ancestors appeared,

The ancestors said

“Rama, O blessed Rama, O son of Bhrigu, we are pleased.  6

 

Thanks to your prayers, O mighty one, blessing be upon you. 0 illustrious one, ask the boon you desire to have.      (p.23)

 

Genealogy of Parasurama:

Descending in order from Mahavisnu: Brahma, Bhrgu, Cyavana, Urva, Ricika, Jamadagni

 

Another version:

Visnu promised Bhumidevi (mother earth) that he would be born on earth as Parasurama when Bhumidevi went to him in the form of a cow and complained to him about the atrocities of the wicked Ksatriya kings.

From the Brahmanda Purana

 

Rama said :

If, O fathers, you are pleased with me, the boon, I ask is that I may be freed from the sin of annihilating the Ksatriyas and that the lakes, that I have made, may become celebrated shrines in the world.     9

 

The ancestors then said,

“It would be as you have wished. But be pacified.     10

 

They wanted Parasurama to stop killing Ksatriyas.

 

Sauti:

The region, that lies near those five bloody lakes, has become famous from that day by the name of holy Samantapancaka.    11

 

The wise men have said that every place should be known by a name significant of something which may have made it famous.    12

 

At the end of Dvapara and in the beginning of Kali, a great battle was fought between the Kurus and the Pandavas, here at this holy Samantapancaka.    13

 

In that holy place, where there was not the least raggedness, were assembled eighteen Aksauhinis of soldiers, all eager for battle.   14

 

O Brahmanas, they were all killed in that place. Thus, O Brahmanas, its name is explained.    15

 

This place came to be known as Kuruksetra, or the place of King Kuru’s austerities and devotions.

 

I have described to you that beautiful and holy place. I have told you, O best of Brahmanas, all about this place, a place famous in the three worlds.    16

 

Description of the Aksauhinis

 

The Rishis said :

We wish to know, O Son of Suta, all about Aksauhini which you have mentioned to us.    17

 

Tell us the numbers of foot-soldiers, horses chariots and elephants, which make an Aksauhini, for you know every thing.     18

 

Sarvam hi viditam tava, you know everything.

 

Sauti said:

One chariot and one elephant, five foot soldiers and three horse-men, form a Patti.

 

Three Pattis make a Senamukha, three Senamukhas make a Gulma.

 

Three Gulmas make a Gana, three Ganas a Vahini, three Vahinis taking together, form a Pritana.

 

Three Pritanas make a Chamu, three Chamus an Anikini and ten times one Anikini is called by the learned as one Aksauhini.

 

O best of Brahmanas, mathematicians have calculated that there are twenty one thousand eight hundred and seventy chariots in an Aksauhini. The number of elephants is also the same.     24.  (p.24)

 

Know, the number of foot soldiers is one hundred nine-thousand three hundred and fifty; the number of horses is sixty-five thousand six-hundred and ten.   25, 26

 

Those who are acquainted with the principle of number call the above, explained fully by me, the numbers of an Aksauhini.    27

 

O best of Brahmanas, the eighteen Aksauhinis of the Kurus and the Pandava soldiers were composed according to this count.    28

 

Time brought them all together in this place and making the Kauravas the cause, destroyed them all.    29

 

Bhishma, skillfull in arms, fought for ten days. Drona defended the Kuru army for five days.    30

 

The destroyer of enemy’s soldiers, Karna, fought for two days; Salya for half a day and for a half a day then lasted the club-fight of Duryodhana and Bhima. At the close of that day, Asvatthama, Kritavarma and Kripa.   31, 32

 

Destroyed the army of Yudhisthira when his soldiers were unsuspectingly sleeping. O Shaunaka, the best of narrations, the Bharata, which is narrated here at your sacrifice.    33

 

Was formerly narrated at the sacrifice of Janamejaya by the learned pupil of Vyasa. In it has been fully described the fame and valour of the kings of the world.    34

 

 

Division and summary of the Parvas

 

There are three Parvas in the beginning (of this great work), namely Paushya, Pauloma and Astika, which contain many wonderful dictions and descriptions and philosphical senses.     35.   (p.24)

 

As men desirous of final release, accept Vairagya, so it is accepted by the wise. As Self is among things to be known, as life among things that are dear.   36

 

Vairagya means renunciation.

 

So is it the best among all histories and also among all Shastras. There is not a story current in the world which does not depend on it.  37

 

The Maha-bharata is the historical and philosophical basis of the entire Vedic culture. There is no sage or text that one way or another does not refer to it, including the most important Puranas. If one wants to know Vedic history and philosophy he must read the Maha-bharata.

 

As the body depends on the food it partakes so all poets serve and cherish this Bharata.       38

 

Maha-bharata doesn’t refer to King Bharata only but to the whole of Bharata Varsa. In the past Bharata was all over the planet and now it refers only to the nation known as India.

 

As the servant who wishes for promotion serves his master and as the words, constituting the various branches of knowledge and the Vedas, display vowels and consonants only, so this excellent history displays the highest knowledge.      39, 40

 

It would be a mistake to think that the Maha-bharata is just a history text. It contains various and vast mines of philosophical and spiritual knowledge (prajna).

 

Hear the outline of the Parvas of this Bharata history which is full of subtle meaning and logical connection and which is rich with the meanings of the Vedas.   41.  (p.25)

 

Parva means section, chapter or book.

 

The first is called Anukramanika,

the second Parva Sangraha;

then come Pauloma,

Paushya,

Astika,

Adi-ansavatarana.    42

 

After this the wonderful and thoughtful Sambhava,

then Jatugrihadaha,

then Hidimba.    43

 

Then Baka-vadha

and then Caitraratha,

then Panchali-svayamvara Parva.    44

 

Then after defeating the rivals in rightful battle Vaivahika Parva,

then Viduragamana and

Rajya-lambha.     45

 

Then Arjuna-vanavasa,

Subhadraharana,

Harana-harika.   46

 

Then Khandava-daha and

Mayadarshana,

then come Sabha Parva and

Mantra Parva.    47

 

Then Jarasandha-vadha and

Digvijaya; after Digvijaya comes the

Parva called Rajasuyika.   48

 

Then Arghabhiharana,

Sisupalavadha,

Dyuta,

Anudyuta Parva;

Then Aranyaka.

Kirmira-vadha,

Arjunabhigamana.    49, 50

 

And then Kairata, in which the battle between Arjuna and Siva is described;

Then Indralokabhigamana.    51

 

Then comes the pathetic, pious and religious story of Nala-upakhyana;

Then Tirtha-yatra of the wise king of the Kurus.   52

 

Then Jatasura-vadha,

then Yakshayuddha,

then Nivatakavaca-yuddha and

Ajagara.

 

Then Markandeya-samasya,

then the Parva of the meeting of Draupadi and Satyabhama.

 

Then Ghoshayatra,

Mriga-svapna, then

Brihidraunikamakhyana and

Aindradyumna.   55

 

Then Draupadi-Harana-Parva,

then Jayadratha-Vimochana,

then the story of Savitri, illustrating love of husband and chastity.    56

 

After this the story of Rama, then Kundala- Harana Parva.    57

 

That which comes next is Aranya

and then Virata, where the Pandavas went and fulfilled their promise.    58       (p.26)

 

Where the Pandavas went means in disguise.

 

Then the Kichaka-vadha,

then Gograhana,

then the marriage of Abhimanyu with the daughter of the king of Virata.    59

 

Then is the most wonderful Parva Udyoga.

The next one is Sanjaya-yana.      60

 

Then comes Prajagara, the anxieties of Dhritarastra,

then Sanatsujata, the mysteries of philosophy.     61

 

Then Yanasandhi, the arrival of Sri Krishna.

Then the story of Matali and that of Galava.   62

 

Then the stories of Savitri, Vamadeva and Vainya; then the stories of Jamadagni and Sodasarajika.    63

 

Then the arrival of Krishna at the court,

then Vidula-Putra-shasana,

then the assemblage of troops

and the story of Seta;    64

 

Then comes the quarrel of the noble Karna,

then the march of the Kuru and Pandava armies to the field of battle.

 

Then Rathatiratha-Sankhya Parva,

then the arrival of wrath-inspiring messenger Uluka.      66

 

Then the story of Amba,

then the wonderful installation of Bhishma;   67

 

Then the account of the creation of Jambu-khanda and Bhumi,

then the account of the island.    68

 

Then Bhagavad-Gita Parva,

then Bhishma-vadha,

then the installation of Drona and

then the death of the Samsaptakas.    69

 

Then Abhimanyu-vadha,

then Pratijna Parva,

then Jayadratha-vadha

and Ghatotkaca-vadha.     70

 

Then the hair-stirring Drona-vadha,

then the discharge of Narayana weapon.    71

 

Then Karna Parva

and then next to it is Salya Parva.

Then Hrida Pravesha Parva,

then Gada-Yudha.    72

 

Then Sarasvata

and the description of Tirtha and Vansha

and then Sauptika, describing the disgraceful conduct of the Kurus.    73

 

Then dreadful Aisika Parva,

then Jalapradana,

then Strivilapa;    74

 

Then Sraddha Parva, describing the funeral rites for the killed Kurus;

then Carvaka-vadha who was a Raksasa but appeared as a Brahmana.     75      (p.27)

 

Then the coronation of wise Yudhisthira,

then Griha-pravibhagaparva;    76

 

Then Santi Parva,

then Rajadharmanushasana,

then Apaddharma and

Mokshadharma;    77

 

Then come Sukaprasna-abhigamana,

Brahma-prasna-anusasana,

the origin of Durvasa and colloquy with Maya.    78

 

Next comes Anusasana,

then the ascension of wise Bhishma to heaven.   79

 

The next one is all sin-destroying Asvamedha

and then Anu-Gita, containing transcendental philosophy.    80

 

Next come Asramavashika,

Putra-darshana

and the arrival of Narada.    81

 

Then comes Mausala, full of cruel and terrible incidents;

then Mahaprasthana;

and the ascension to heaven.     82

 

Then follows the Purana which is called Khila Harivamsa, in it is Visnu Parva, describing the early life of Visnu and the destruction of Kansa.     83

 

The last of all is Bhavisya Parva which contains future prophecies.

These are the one hundred Parvas, composed by the noble and great Vyasa.    84

 

Having placed them in eighteen Parvas, the son of Lomaharsana, the descendant of Suta, recited them in the forest of Naimisa;     85

 

Of which the above is an abridgement.

 

Summary of Adi Parva

Adi-Parva contains Paushya, Pauloma, Astika, Adi-ansavatarana.

 

Here begins a summary of all eighteen Parvas of the Maha-bharata. We will add only some sporadic explanations because obviously we will give ample ones during the study of this sacred book.

 

Sambhava; the burning of the house of lac, the destruction of Hidimba and Baka and Caitraratha, the Svayamvara of Draupadi;

 

Her marriage after a righteous battle with the rivals, the arrival of Vidura, the regaining of kingdom,

 

Aijuna’s exile into jungle, the stealing of Subhadra, the gift and receipt of the marriage dower, the burning of Khandava forest,

 

The meeting with Maya, these are the contents of Adi Parva. The Paushya Parva contains the greatness of Uttanka.

 

In Pauloma Parva the account of the Bhrigu and his descendants has been narrated.    91

 

Astika contains the account of the birth ot Garuda all the Nagas,    

 

That of the churning of the ocean, the birth of Uchaisrava and last of all, the Bharata dynasty as described at the snake-sacrifice of king Pariksit. Sambhava Parva treats of the births of various kings, sages and heroes and that of the sage, Krishna Dvaipayana, the partial incarnations of the celestials,  92, 93, 94.   (p.28)

 

The births of Daityas, Danavas powerful Yakshas, of Nagas, of Gandharvas of birds,    95

 

And of all creatures and lastly of the son of Sakuntala by Dusyanta at the hermitage of the sage Kanva, Bharata, the name by which his descendants, are known.   96, 97

 

It describes the births of the graet Vasus in the house of Shantanu in the womb of Bhagirathi and their again going to heaven.   98

 

And the birth of resplendent Bhishma, his renunciation of royalty, his adoption of Brahmacarya,     99

 

His adherence to his vow, his protection of Citrangada, his protection of his younger brother after the death of Citrangada,    100

 

His placing Vicitravirya on the throne, the birth of Dharma on account of the curse of Animandavya,     101

 

The births of Dhritarastra and Pandu, by the blessing of Krishna Dvaipayana and also the birth of the Pandavas,   102

 

The conspiracy of Duryodhana to send the Pandavas to Varanavata and other plotting of the sons of Dhritarastra against the Pandavas;    103

 

Advice given to Yudhisthira in the language of the Mlecchas by that well-wisher of the Pandavas, Vidura,     104

 

Digging of a under-ground passage in consequence of the words of Vidura; the burning of Purocana and the sleeping hunterwoman with her five sons in the house of lac; the meeting of Pandavas with Hidimbi in the forest.    105, 106

 

Then the destruction of Hidimba by powerful Bhima; then the birth of Ghatotkaca,    107

 

The meeting of the Pandavas with Vyasa, their stay according to his advice in a Brahmana’s house at Ekacakra.    108

 

Living in disguise; the destruction of Baka and the astonishment of the people,    109

 

The wonderful births of Krishna (Draupadi) and Dristadyumna; hearing from a Brahmana the news of the Svayamvara and in obedience to the request of Vyasa.    110    (p.29)

 

And also moved by the desire to win the hand of Draupadi, the departure of the Pandavas to Pancala;   111

 

The victory of Arjuna over Angaraparna on the banks of the Bhagirathi; making friendship with him and to hear from him.    112

 

The accounts of Tapati, Vasistha and Aurva; then the arrival of the Pandavas with all the brothers at Pancala;    113

 

The hitting of the mark at the city of Pancala by Arjuna and the acquisition of Draupadi by him in the midst of all the kings of the world.

 

The defeat of Salya, Karna and all the angry kings by powerful Bhima and Arjuna in the battle that ensued.

 

The doubting by Rama and Krishna from the great exploits of the brothers that whether they were Pandavas.

 

Their arrival at the house of the potter where the brothers were living; the grief of Drupada, because Draupadi would be married to five husbands;

 

The story of five Indras told in consequence; the wonderful and divinely arranged marriage of Draupadi;

 

The sending of Vidura as an envoy to the Pandavas from the sons of Dhritarastra; his arrival; and his meeting with Krishna;

 

Living of the Pandavas at Indraprastha and their rule over half of the kingdom; the fixing of time for the five brothers to live with Draupadi as directed by Narada;

 

The histories of Sunda and Upasunda are narrated; and then the departure of Arjuna to the forest according to the vow and on account of his seeing Yudhisthira and Draupadi sitting together when he entered into the room to take arms to rescue the kine of a Brahmana; the meeting of Arjuna with Ulupi on his way.

 

It then describes the birth of Babhruvahana; and the account of Arjuna’s visit to many holy pilgrimages; the deliverance by Arjuna of the five celestial maidens.     124

 

Who had become alligators by the curse of an ascetic Brahmana; the meeting of Arjuna and Krishna at the holy pilgrimage of Prabhasa;    125

 

Arjuna’s taking of Subhadra by force with the permission of Krishna on the car which goes every where at the will of the rider;   126.   (p.30)

 

Taking the dower of Krishna, Arjuna’s departure to Indraprastha; the birth of that prodigy of prowess, Abhimanyu, in the womb of Subhadra;    127

 

The birth of the children of Draupadi; the pleasure trip of Arjuna and Krishna to the banks of the Yamuna;

 

The acquisition by them the celebrated bow Gandiva and the discus; the burning of the forest of Khandava; the saving of the life of Maya and the serpent;

 

The giving birth to a son by Rishi Mandapala in the womb of a bird, called Sarangi. The Adi-Parva has been described with these various matters.

 

Greatly powerful Vyasa has divided this Parva into two hundred and twenty seven chapters.

 

These two hundred and twenty-seven chapters contain eight thousand eight hundred and eighty-four slokas.

 

Summary of Sabha Parva

The second is Sabha Parva which is very extensive and full of matter. It describes the building of the assembly-hall by the Pandavas and the review of their servants;    133

 

The description of the courts of Lokapalas by Narada who knows all the celestial regions; the preparations for the Rajasuya Yajna; the destruction of Jarasandha;

 

The deliverance by Krishna of all the princes those were kept as prisoners (by Jarasandha) at (his capital city) Girivraja, Then it relates the conquest of the world by the Pandavas;

 

Krishna freed all the princes kept prisoners by Jarasandha) at his capital city.

 

The arrival of the chiefs and potentates with tribute at the Rajasuya Yajna; the destruction of Sisupala at the sacrifice, in connection with Arghya giving;

 

The grief and envy of Duryodhana at the sight of the magnificence of the sacrifice; the joking of Bhima at the expense of Duryodhana in the great assembly.

 

The preparation for the game of dice; the defeat of Yudhisthira at the play by cunning and crafty Sakuni;

 

The deliverance, by the greatly wise Dhritarastra, of the sorrowful Draupadi who was drowned in the ocean of distress on account of the game;

 

Seeing this, the attempt of Duryodhana to engage Yudhisthira again in game;  140.   (p.31)

 

The exile of Yudhisthira with his brothers by the victorious Duryodhana. These are the matters that have been dwelt in the Sabha Parva.    141

 

This Parva is divided into seventy eight chapters and it contains, O best of Brahmanas, two thousand five hundred and eleven slokas. Then comes the third Parva, called Aranya.  142, 143

 

Summary of Aranya Parva

It describes the departure of the Pandavas to the forest with the citizens following the wise Yudhisthira;    144

 

In order to be gifted with the power of supplying food to the Brahmanas, Yudhisthira’s adoration of the Sun by the advice of Dhaumya; the creation of food by this means; the expulsion of Vidura who was always a well-wisher of his master;

 

Vidura’s coming to the Pandavas; his return to Dhritarastra by his request;

 

The conspiracy of Duryodhana, being incited by Karna, to destroy the roving Pandavas;

 

Having learnt this evil intention of Duryodhana, Vyasa’s arrival to him. His discussion with Duryodhana on the point of his going to the forest (after the Pandavas); the history of Surabhi related;

 

The arrival of Maitreya and his instructions to Dhritarastra; his curse to Duryodhana;

 

The slaying of Kirmira by Bhima, the arrival of the Pancalas and Vrishnis;

 

Having heard that the Pandavas had been defeated at an unjust game of dice by Sakuni, the arrival of Krishna and Arjuna allaying Krishna’s anger.

 

The lamentation of Draupadi before Krishna and his cheering of her;

 

The account of the fall of Saubhava was described by the great Rishi. Then it describes the departure of Krishna to Dwaraka with Subhadra and her son;     154

 

The taking of Draupadi’s sons by Dhristadyumna to Pancala; the entry of the Pandavas into the beautiful forest of Dvaita.

 

It then relates the conversation of Draupadi and Bhima with Yudhisthira.

 

The arrival of Vyasa to the Pandavas, the bestowal of power of Pratismriti to Yudhisthira by the great Rishi.  147.    (p.32)

 

It then describes the departure of Vyasa, the Pandavas’ going to the forest of Kamyaka; the rovings of greatly powerful Arjuna in quest of weapons;      148

 

His fight with Siva who was in the disguise of a hunter; his meeting with the Lokapalas and his receipt of weapons from them;

 

His journey to the celestial kingdom of Indra and anxiety of Dhritarastra in consequence.

 

It then relates the lamentations of Yudhisthira in his meeting with the holy sage Brihadashva.

 

It then contains the holy and most pathetic story of Nala, illustrating the great patience of Damayanti and the character of Nala.

 

This is a particularly famous story called Nalopakhyana.

 

It then describes how Yudhisthira acquired the mysteries of dice from the great Rishi; then the arrival of great Rishi Lomasa from the celestial region where Arjuna was.

 

The receipt from the Rishi by the high-souled dwellers of forest (the Pandavas) the news of the third brother who was then staying in the celestial regions.

 

The high-souled dwellers of forest. It refers to the Pandavas.

the third brother is Arjuna.

 

The pilgrimages of the Pandavas to various holy places as asked by Arjuna; their attainment of merit and virtue in consequence;

 

The arrival of great sage Narada at the holy shrine of Pulastya; the arrival of the high-souled Pandavas also at that holy pilgrimage.

 

Then it relates the account of the deprivation of Karna of his ear-rings by Indra and then the sacrificial greatness by Gaya;

 

The story of Agastya which relates how he ate up the Asura, Vatapi; his approaching Lopamudra to have an offspring.

 

It then tells the story of Risyasringa who adopted the life of an ascetic from his boyhood. Then follows the story of greatly powerful Rama, the son of Jamadagni.

 

In which is described the death of Kartavirya and Haihayas; then the meeting of the Pandavas and the Vrisnis at the holy pilgrimage of Prabhasa.

 

The story Sukanya in which Bhrigu’s son, Chyavana, made the Asvinis drink Soma Juice at the sacrifice of king Saryati.    171

 

And in which it has been shown how he himself acquired perpetual youth. Then it relates the history of King Mandhata.    172

 

He himself acquired perpetual youth: Cyavana

 

Then it tells the story of prince Jantu and how king Somaka, by offering up his only son Jantu in sacrifice, got one hundred others.   173.   (p.33)

 

Then follows the beautiful story of the hawk and the pegion; then the trial of king Sivi by Indra, Agni and Dharma.

 

The story of Astavakra in which is narrated the great debate between that Rishi and the first of logicians, named Bandi, the son of Varuna at the sacrifice of Janaka.

 

The defeat of Bandi and the release of the father of the Rishi Astavakra from the ocean. Then follows the story of Yavakrita, then that of the great Raibhya.

 

Then the departure of the Pandavas for Gandhamadana and their staying at a hermitage called Narayana; Bhima’s journey to Gandhamadana by the request of Draupadi.

 

His meeting on his way with the Pandava’s son, greatly powerful, Hanuman, who was in a grove of bananas;

 

His bath in the tank and the destruction of its flowers in searching for the sweet-scented flower Nalini; his fight with powerful Raksasas.

 

Yakshas, including Manimana; the destruction of the Asura Jata by him.

 

The meeting with the Royal sage Vrishaparva; their departure for the hermitage of Arstisena and then their stay there.

 

The inciting of Bhima against the Kurus by Draupadi. Then is related the ascent of Kailasa by Bhima, where with the powerful Yakshas.

 

Headed by Manimana, he fought a great battle; the meeting of the Pandavas with Kuvera. Then comes the meeting with Arjuna who had obtained many great weapons.

 

Then it relates the battle between Arjuna and the great enemy of the celestials Nivatakavacas, who dwelt in Hiranyapuram.

 

Then comes the account of Arjuna’s fight with Paulomas and Kalkeyas; their death at his hand.

 

The display of weapons by Arjuna before Yudhisthira and its prevention by the great Rishi Narada.     187

 

The descent of the Pandavas from the Gandhamadana; the seizure of Bhima by a monster mountain-snake.    188  (p.34)

 

The release of Bhima from the snake on answering certain questions of his by Yudhisthira.

 

The return of the Pandavas to the forest of Kamyaka; the arrival of Krishna to see the sons of Pandu; the arrival of Rishi Markandeya; and his various recitals.

 

The story of Pritha, the son of Vena, was told by the Rishi; also the debate of Sarasvati and that of Rishi Tarksya.

 

Then follows the story of Matsya and other old stories recited by Markandeya.

 

Then come the stories of Indradyumna and Dhundumara, then the story of the chaste wife and the history of Angirasa.

 

Then is told the meeting of Draupadi and Satyabhama and their conversation; the return of the Pandavas to the forest of Dvaita.

 

The procession of the calves and the captivity of Duryodhana at the hands of Gandharvas. His rescue by Arjuna when the wretch was being carried away.

 

Then follows the dream of the deer by Yudhisthira, then the return of the Pandavas to the forest of Kamyaka.

 

Here follows the long story of Vrihidraunika. Here is related the story of Durvasa.

 

Then is narrated the forcible abduction of Draupadi by Jayadratha from the hermitage; the pursuit of the wretch by Bhima, swift as the air; the shaving of Jayadratha at the hand of Bhima. Then follows the long story of Ramayana.

 

In which is shown how Ravana was killed by the prowess of Rama. Then is narrated the story of Savitri.

 

Then Karna’s deprivation of earrings by Indra and his presentation to him a weapon called Sakti.

 

The story of Araneya in which Dharma gave advice to his son and in which is related how the Pandavas received a boon and went to the west.     203

 

These matters are all described in the third Parva called Aranyaka. It contains two hundred and sixty-nine chapters. Its numbers of slokas is eleven thousand, six hundred and sixty four. Then comes the extensive Virata Parva.

 

Summary of Virata Parva

It described how the Pandavas arrived at the city of Virata and saw a Sami tree in a cremation ground on which they kept hidden their weapons.     207     (p.35)

 

Then have been related their entry into the city and their stay in disguise; then the slaying by Bhima of the wicked Kichaka who lustfully aspired for Draupadi; then the attempt of king Duryodhana to find out the Pandavas.

 

His despatch of clever spies to all countries to trace out the Pandavas; their failure to discover the mighty sons of Pandu.

 

First the seizure of Virata’s kine by the Trigartas, the fearful battle that followed;

 

The capture of Virata by the enemy and his rescue by Bhima; the release of his kine also by the Pandava (Bhima).

 

Then seizure of Virata’s kine by the Kurus, the defeat of the Kuru warriors by single handed Arjuna.

 

The release of the king’s kine by Arjuna’s valour; the bestowal by Virata of his daughter to Arjuna for his acceptance of her for his son by Subhadra, Abhimanyu, the destroyer of foes. These are the contents of the extensive fourth Parva Virata.

 

The great Rishi has composed it in sixty seven chapters and it contains two thousand and fifty slokas.

 

The summary of Udyoga Parva

Here now, the contents of the fifth Parva, named Udyoga. When the Pandavas were living at Upaplavya, desirous of battle, both Arjuna and Duryodhana went to Krishna and said,

“You should help us in this war.”     219

 

When these words were uttered, the high-souled Krishna replied,

‘O best of men, a counsellor (myself) who will not fight,    220

 

And one Aksauhini of my soldiers, between these two which shall I give to you?” Blind to his own interest, the foolish Duryodhana asked for the soldiers.    221

 

Arjuna chose to possess Krishna as a counsellor, although he will not fight.

Then is related the coming of the king of Madra for the assistance of the Pandavas.   222

 

Having deceived him on the way by present. Duryodhana induced him to grant him a boon and for that boon he asked his help in the war.   223   (p.36)

 

Then it narrates how Salya went to the Pandavas and how he consoled Yudhisthira by recounting the victory of Indra over Vitra.

 

Then is told the dispatch of the Purohita by the Pandavas to the Kurus. Greatly powerful Dhritarastra, having heard the story of Indra’s victory from the Purohita, sent Sanjaya to the Pandavas to ask for peace.

 

Dhritarastra heard all about the Pandavas, their friends, Krishna and others; and his great anxiety and sleeplessness in consequence. Vidura’s sound, wise and various counsels were given to the wise king Dhritarastra.

It then contains the excellent truths of spiritual philosophy that were told by Sanatsujata.

 

To the anxious and sorrowing king. Next morning in the Royal court, Sanjaya spoke.

 

Of the great friendship between Arjuna and Krishna. It was then that great Krishna, moved by pity and being desirous of bringing peace.

 

He went himself to Hastinapur, the capital of the Kurus.

(It then relates) the rejection of the peaceful offer of Krishna by the king Duryodhana.

 

An offer which was for the benefit of both parties. Then is related the story of Dambhodbhava;

 

Then the search for a bridegroom by Matali for his daughter; then follows the history of the great Rishi Galava.

 

Then the story of the training of the son of Vidula, having heard of the evil counsel of Duryodhana and Karna and others.

 

Krishna’s display of his Yoga powers to the kings; then his taking Karna on his chariot and giving him sound advice.

 

Karna’s rejection of Krishna’s advice out of pride; then the chastiser of his enemies, Krishna returned to Upaplavya from Hastinapur.     237

 

He told the Pandavas all that had happened. It was then the greatly powerful Pandavas, the chastisers of their foes, after consulting properly with one another, made all preparations for war.    238, 239

 

Then follows the march of infantry cavalry, elephants and charioteers from Hastinapur; the review of troops by both parties; the sending of Uluka to the Pandavas by the king Duryodhana.    240.   (p.37)

 

As an envoy on the day before the great battle; then the number of charioteers of different classes was related. Then is told the story of Amba.

 

These are the matters that have been dwelt on, the fifth Parva of the Bharata in full of incidents regarding both peace and war.

 

Great Rishis, the great Vyasa has composed this Parva in one hundred and eighty six chapters. The number of slokas composed in it by the great Rishi is six thousand six hundred and ninety eight.

 

The summary of Bhisma Parva

Then is told the wonderful Bhishma Parva. Sanjaya related in it the creation of Jambu country.    245

 

Then is narrated the great depression of the army of Yudhisthira and the fierce battle that raged for ten successive days.   246

 

The high-souled Krishna dispelled in this Parva the great compunction which was felt by Arjuna towards his relatives, by citing reasons based on the philosophy of final emancipation.

 

In it is also narrated how the magnanimous Krishna, seeing the loss inflicted on the Pandava army, jumped from the chariot and ran swiftly, with dauntless breast and his driving whip in hand, to kill Bhishma. In this Parva also, Krishna smote Arjuna.

 

The bearer of the Gandiva and the greatest warrior in battle among all wielders of weapons. In it also is narrated how the bowman Arjuna, placing Shikhandi before him.

 

Wounded Bhishma with his sharpest arrows and felled him from his chariot and how Bhishma lay on his bed of arrows.

 

This extensive Parva is the sixth in the Bharata. It is composed of one hundred and seventeen chapters. Its number of slokas is five thousand eight hundred and eighty-four as composed by Vyasa, well-learned in the Vedas. Then comes Drona Parva, full of wonderful incidents.

 

The summary of Drona Parva

It relates the installation of greatly powerful instructor Drona as the commander of the army; the vow of making Yudhisthira prisoner was taken by the great warrior to please Duryodhana; Samsaptakas taking Arjuna away from the bettie field.     (p.38)

 

The overthrow by Arjuna of the great king Bhagadatta, as great a warrior as Indra himself, with his elephant Supratika.    257

 

The death of the boy-hero, Abhimanyu in his teens, alone and unsupported at the hand of many great car-warriors including Jayadratha.

 

On the death of Abhimanyu, the destruction by Arjuna of seven Aksauhinis of soldiers alongwith Jayadratha in a great battle.

 

Then in order to search Partha, greatly powerful Bhima and the great car-warrior Satyaki, by command of king Yudhisthira.

 

Partha is another name for Arjuna.

 

Entered into the Kaurava ranks, impenetrable even by the celestial; the destruction of the rest of the Samsaptakas.

 

In this Drona Parva is narrated the deaths of Alambusha, Srutayus, valorous Jalasandha, Somadatti, Virata, great car-warrior Drupada, Ghatotkaca and others. Being exceedingly angry on account of the death of Drona in battle, Asvatthama also.

 

Discharged his fearful weapon Narayana. Then is told the story of Rudra, in connection with the burning of the cities. The arrival of Vyasa and the glories of Partha and Krishna are told by him.

 

These are the matters elaborately narrated in the seventh Parva of the Bharata, in which all the chief and potentates mentioned were killed.

 

The number of chapters in this Parva is one hundred and seventy. The number of slokas composed in the Drona Parva by the great Rishi, the son of Parasara and the master of great knowledge, is eight thousand nine hundred and nine.

 

The summary of Karna Parva

Then comes the most wonderful Parva named Karna. In it is described the appointment of king of the Madra as the charioteer (of Karna).

 

Then is told the old story of the death of Tripura; the interchange of strong words between Karna and Salya on their setting out to battle.

 

Then is narrated the story of the swan and the crow as an insulting allusion to Karna.    271

 

Then is the death of Pandya at the hands of the high-souled Asvatthama.

 

Then the death of Dandasena and then that of Danda, then the imminent risk of Yudhisthira in single combat with Karna which took place before all the warriors; the anger of Yudhisthira and Arjuna towards each other;    (p.39)

 

Krishna’s pacification of Arjuna; Bhima’s fulfilment of his vow by drinking the heart’s blood of Dushasana after ripping open his breast; the slaying of Karna by Arjuna in single combat.

 

The leader of the Bharata calls this Parva the eighth Parva. The number of its chapters is sixty nine and that of the slokas is four thousand nine hundred and sixty four.

 

The summary of Salya Parva

Then is told the wonderful, Parva called Salya. After the death of all great warriors, the king of Madra became the commander.

 

Then is described one after the other the encounters of various charioteer; then the deaths of the chief warrior of the Kuru army.

 

Then the death of Salya at the hands of Yudhisthira, the death of Sakuni at the hands of Sahadeva.

 

When only a small remnant of his troops remained alive, Suyodhana retired in to a lake and there creating room for himself, lay hidden.

 

Suyodhana is another name for Duryodhana.

 

The receipt of this news by Bhima from some hunters. Then is related how Duryodhana, ever unable to bear affronts, came out of the water, being angered by the insulting words of Yudhisthira. Then is described the fight of Bhima and Duryodhana with clubs.

 

The arrival of Balarama at the time of the fight is next described. Then is told the sacredness of the Sarasvati.

 

The continuation of the club fight; the breaking of Duryodhana’s thighs by Bhima by a fearful hurl of his club. All this has been described in the wonderful ninth Parva.

 

The number of chapters in this Parva is fifty-nine and the number of slokas composed by the great Vyasa, the spreader of the fame of the Kuru Dynasty, is three thousand two hundred and twenty.    288

 

The summary of Sauptika Parva

I shall now describe the contents of the terrible tenth Parva, named Sauptika. On the departure of the Pandavas the great car-warrior, Kritavarma, Kripa and the son of Drona (Asvatthama) came in the evening to he place where Duryodhana was lying with the broken thigh.      289, 290    (p.40)

 

They saw King Duryodhana lying on the ground, his thighs broken and his body covered with blood. The great car-warrior, fearfully angry son of Drona vowed.     291

 

“I will not take off my armour without killing all the Pancalas with Dhristadyumna and the Pandavas with their allies.”

 

Having said these words, the three warriors left Duryodhana and entered into the great forest just when the sun was setting.

 

While they were resting under a large banian tree, they saw an owl killing innumerable crows at night.

 

Seeing this, Asvatthama, his heart being full of rage, remembering the death of his father, determined to kill the sleeping Pancalas.

 

Going to the gate of the camp, he saw a fearful Raksasa, his head reaching to the very skies, guarding the door.

 

Seeing also that the Raksasa obstructed him in his discharge of weapons, he began to worship the three-eyed divinity and it pacified him.

 

Then accompanied by Kripa and Kritavarma, he entered the camp and killed all the sons of Draupadi and all the family of Pancalas, including Dhristadyumna, when they were all unsuspectingly sleeping on their beds. Only Satyaki and the five Pandavas escaped through the counsel of Krishna.

 

The charioteer of Dhristhadyumna brought to the Pandavas the news of the massacre of the slumbering Pancalas by the son of Drona. Draupadi, grieved by the death of her father, brother and sons.

 

Sat before her husbands and resolved to die of fasting. Then Bhima of fearful deed, being moved by the words of Draupadi.

 

Determined to please her, he speedily took up his club and ran in pursuit of the son of his preceptor.

 

The son of Drona, out of fear of Bhima and as fate would have it discharged the celestial weapon, crying

“Let it make the world free of all the Pandavas.”     304

 

Krishna neutralised the words by saying,

“This shall not be,”

and Arjuna neutralised the weapon by one of his own.     305.  (p.41)

 

Seeing the wicked intention of Asvatthama, Dvaipayana cursed him and he too cursed Dvaipayana.    306

 

The Pandavas took the jewel on the head of Asvatthama and they with much pleasure presented it to the aggrieved and sorrowing Draupadi.     307

 

These matters are dwelt with in this tenth Sauptika Parva. The great Vyasa composed it in eighteen chapters. The numbers of slokas composed in it by the great reciter of the sacred truths, is eight hundred and seventy.    308, 309

 

The great Rishi has put together two Parvas, namely Sauptika and Aisika in this Parva. Then the saddest Parva called Stree is next told.

 

The summary of Stri Parva

Then greatly wise Dhritarastra, being much afflicted by the death of his sons, moved with vengeance, crushed into pieces an iron statute, the substitute for Bhima, placed before him by Krishna. Then Vidura consoled the great king by removing his worldly affections with reasons pointing to final emancipation.   311, 312, 313

 

Then is described the journey of Dhritarastra with the ladies of his house to the field of battle.

 

Then were the pathetic and heartrending lamentations of the wives of the heroes. The wrath of Gandhari and Dhritarastra and their falling into a swoon.

 

Then did the ladies see those heroes, their slain sons, brothers and father, lying on the field of battle.

 

The pacification by Krishna of the wrath of Gandhari, who was greatly afflicted by the death of her sons and grandsons.

 

The cremation of the chiefs and potentates by king Yudhisthira, the greatly wise and the foremost of all virtuous men, according to due rites.

 

When the presentation of water to the deceased princes was commenced, Kunti acknowledged Karna as her son born in secret.

 

All this has been described by the great Rishi Vyasa in the most pathetic eleventh Parva.      320

 

Its reading moves every heart and draws tears from every eye. It contains twenty-seven chapters and its number of slokas is seven hundred and seventy-five.    321, 322.  (p.42)

 

The summary of Santi Parva

Then comes the Santi Parva, the twelfth in number, which increases the understanding. It relates the despondency of Yudhisthira.

 

On his having slain his fathers, brothers, sons, maternal uncles and relations by marriage. There is related how Bhishma taught laws and duties, worth the study of kings who desire to possess knowledge.

 

If a person understands them, he attains to consummate knowledge. The mysteries of final emancipation is also elaborately discussed.

 

This twelfth Parva, the favourite of the wise, contains three hundred and thirty nine chapters.

 

O Rishis, the wise son of Parasara has described this Parva in fourteen thousand seven hundred and thirty two slokas. Next comes the excellent Anusasana Parva.

 

The summary of Anusasana Parva

The king of the Kurus, Yudhisthira was consoled by hearing the expositions of duties by the son of the Bhagirathi, Bhishma.

 

It then treats of the rules Dharma and Artha in detail, then the various rules of charity and its different merits.

 

The different merits of charity according to the subjects of charity; the rules of living, the ceremonials of individual duty and the matchless merits of truth.

 

It describes the great merit of Brahmanas and kine and it reveals the duties in relation to time and place.

 

All these excellent matters have been treated in this Anusasana Parva containing variety of incidents. It also describes ascension of Bhishma to heaven.

 

This is the thirteenth Parva which describe

the certainty of righteousness. It contains one hundred and forty six chapters.

 

The number of slokas in it is eight thousand. Then comes the fourteenth Parva, called Ashvamedhika.

 

The summary of Asvamedhika

It relates the beautiful story of Samvarta and Marutta; the discovery of treasures (by the Pandavas). Then is described the birth of Pariksit.        337

 

Who was burnt by the weapon of Asvatthama and therefore almost dead, but he was revived by Krishna; Arjuna’s journey with the sacrificial horse let loose.   338  (p.43)

 

And his fight with various chiefs and potentates who seized it in wrath, the encounter of Arjuna with the son of Citrangada.    339

 

And his great risk in the fight with Babhruvahana. Then follows the story of the mongoose in the horse-sacrifice.

 

The summary of Asvamedhika Parva

Thus is described the wonderful Parva, called Asvamedhika. Its number of chapters is one hundred and three.

 

The number of slokas, composed by the greatly wise Rishi, is three thousand three hundred and twenty.

 

The summary of Asramavasika Parva

Then comes the fifteenth Parva, named Asramavasika, in which, abdicating the kingdom and accompanied by Gandhari and Vidura, the King Dhritarastra went to the forest. Seeing this, virtuous Pritha ever engaged in serving her superiors, left the kingdom of her sons and followed the old couple.

 

Pritha is another name for Kunti.

 

His wonderful seeing of the spirits of the slain heroes through the favour of Vyasa.

 

On this the old monarch abandoned his sorrow and acquired with his wife the highest fruits of his virtuous deeds Vidura also attained to the highest state, having learned on virtue all his life.

 

The learned son of Gavalgana the wise and learned Sanjaya also, attained to the highest state. Then it relates the meeting of the just king Yudhisthira with Narada.

 

Yudhisthira heard from Narada the destruction of the Vrishni race. Thus is described this wonderful Parva, called Asramavasika.

 

The number of chapters in it is forty two and the number of slokas, composed by the great Rishi, learned in truth, is one thousand five hundred and six. Then is told the terrible Mausala Parva.

 

The summary of Mausala Parva

It relates how on account of the Brahmana a curse, when they were all deprived of their senses with drink, those tigers of men (belonging to the Vrishni race), with many scars of battle on their bodies, slew one another on the shores of the salt-sea with Eraka grass which became deadly thunders in their hands.

 

It then relates that Rama and Krishna, after destroying their race, did not rise superior to the way of all-destroying time.    354    (p.44)

 

Then is described the arrival of Arjuna, the foremost of men, at Dvaraka and his sorrow and affliction seeing the city destitute of the Vrishnis.

 

Performing the funeral ceremony of his maternal uncle Vasudeva, the foremost man of the Yadu dynasty, he saw the Yadu heroes lying dead where they had been drinking.

 

He then performed the cremation ceremonies of the illustrious Krishna and Balarama and of the other chief men of the Yadu race.

 

Then is described the journey of Arjuna from Dvaraka with the women and children, the old and the decrepit and the great calamity he met with on the way. He also saw the overthrow of his Gandiva.

 

He also saw unpropitiousness of his celestial weapons. Seeing that it was impossible to protect the Yadu women.

 

And seeing all this, he went to Yudhisthira by the advice of Vyasa and asked permission to adopt the life of an ascetic.

 

Thus is described the sixteenth Parva, called Mausala Parva. Its number of chapters is eight and the number of slokas, composed by Vyasa, learned in truth, is three hundred and twenty. The next is Mahaprasthanika, the seventeenth Parva.

 

The summary of Mahaprasthanika Parva

It relates that the best of men, the Pandavas, abdicating their kingdom went with Draupadi in their great journey.    367

 

Mahaprasthana means the great journey.

 

They met with Agni when they arrived at the sea of red waters. Asked by Agni, the high-souled Partha.

 

After worshipping him duly, returned to him the great celestial bow Gandiva. Yudhisthira went on his journey and did not look back when one after the other of his brothers, including Draupadi dropped down dead. Thus is told the seventeenth Parva, called, Mahaprasthanika.

 

There are three chapters in it and the number of slokas, composed by all truth-knowing Vyasa, is three hundred and twenty.

 

The summary of Svarga Parva

Know, the Parva that comes next is called Svarga, full of heavenly matters; in which is related how the celestial car came to take Yudhisthira.     368

 

He however, declined to ascend it without the dog that accompanied him. Seeing the steady adherence of the illustrious Yudhisthira to virtue Dharma giving up the from of the dog, showed himself to the king. Then Yudhisthira, attaining to the celestial regions, felt much pain.    370.   (p.45)

 

The celestial messenger showed him hell by deception, where the virtuous minded king heard the heart-rending lamentations of his brothers.      371

 

Suffering in that region by the laws of Yama. This was shown to Yudhisthira by Indra and Dharma.

 

Then Yudhisthira, after bathing in the celestial Ganga, gave up his human body and gained that state which his acts merited.

 

He lived in happiness, honoured by Indra and the celestial. This is the eighteenth Parva narrated by the illustrious Vyasa.

 

The number of chapters in it is five and its numbers of slokas, 0 Rishis, composed by the great Vyasa, is two hundred and nine. These are the contents of the eighteen Parvas.

 

Epilogue

There are Harivamsa and Bhavisya in its appendix. The number of slokas, composed by the great Rishi in the Harivamsa, is twelve thousand.

These are the contents of the chapters called Parva Sangraha in the Bharata.   377, 378

 

Eighteen Aksauhinis of soldiers assembled to fight and the battle raised for eighteen days.

 

He who is learned in the four Vedas with all the Angas and Upanisads, but does not know this history, cannot be considered to be wise.    380

 

The greatly intelligent Vyasa has spoken it as a treatise on Dharma, Artha and Kama.   381

 

Those who have heard it can never listen to other histories, as those who have heard the sweet voice of the male Kokila can never listen to the harsh cawing of the crows.

 

Kokila: a type of cukoo.

 

As the three worlds have been created from the five elements, so inspiration of all poets proceeds from this excellent work.

 

O Brahmanas, as four kinds of creatures depend on space for their existence so all the Puranas depend on this history.

 

As all the senses are dependent on the wonderful workings of the mind, so all the acts and moral qualities depend on this treatise.     385

 

As the body depends on the food is takes, so all the stories current in the world depend on this work.    386.   (p.46)

 

As servants, wishing to have elevation, always depend on their noble masters, so do all poets depend on this Bharata.

 

As the blessed domestic Ashrama cannot be surprised by the other Ashramas, so can no sage surpass this sacred book.

 

O Rishis, be up and doing. Let your hearts be fixed in virtue, for virtue is the only friend in the other world. Even the most intelligent men can never make their wealth and wives their own by carefully cherishing them. They are not things lasting.

 

The Bharata, uttered from the lips of Dvaipayana is matchless, it is sacred, it is virtue itself. It destroys sins and produces good. What is the necessity for him, who hears it when it is being recited, to bathe in the sacred Puskara.    390

 

Puskaka:

This is a holy place situated 36 Kilometres to the north of Ajmer, in Rajasthan. Brahma once did penance there. There is a temple of Brahma there. Padma Purana gives a story about the origin of this tirtha.

Once Brahma came to a place holding a lotus. Then Brahma saw Vajranabha who was engaged in penance for the destruction of the devas. Suddenly the lotus in the hands of Brahma fell down making a thundering noise. The sound was so loud that its vibrations killed Vajranabha. From that day onwards the place was known as Puskara.

Many important personalities, like Dhaumya, Pulastya, Yamaraja and Arjuna came here to do penances.

More information on Puskara, with maps, pictures and videos, will be published in this book.

 

What ever sin committed in the day by a Brahmana through his senses are all purged off, if he reads the Bharata in the evening.    391

 

Whatever sins also he might have commit in the night by deeds words or mind are all purged off if he reads the Bharata in the first twilight of the morning.    392

 

He who gives to a Brahmana, learned in the Vedas and other sciences, one hundred cows with their horns plated with gold and he who listens, daily to the sacred histories of the Bharata, gain equal merit.    393

 

As the wide ocean can be easily crossed by men having boats, so this extensive history of great excellence and deep meaning can be understood by the help of this chapter, which is called Parva Sangraha.     394    (p.46)

 

 

 

Adi Parva, Parva Sangraha Parva, Adhyaya 2 ends here

 

 

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