"Everyone cast me down as father-less bastard, Everyone called me 'the low born', the suta-putra, mother, my only wish, is that you proclaim me as your son upon my death. This is all I ask for. This is all I want." -: Karna to Kunti after she requests him not to slay her children.
The Mahabharata, the greatest epic ever written, has in its stories, complex character formations. One such character is the noble, magnanimous, and ambitious Karna. Karna is a central character in the epic of the Mahabharata, which is an ancient Indian legend known for the great war between two tribes, the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The great King Karna was the son of Surya the Sun god and King of a land called Angadesha. He was one of the greatest warriors in the epic and is known to have been the only man who can face and defeat the great Hero Arjuna, an admiration expressed by the god incarnate Sri-Krishna and the terrible oath taker Bhishma. The story of Karna is an unjust tragedy, with most people taking sides against him. This is partially due to misrepresentation of his life, and role. While he did join the side of evil, he proved and showed that one can still be the light of dharma (righteous/virtuous) despite overwhelming darkness.
Birth of a Hero.
Karna (also called Radheya) was born by a miraculous birth when a girl named Kunti (then a teenager) obtains a mantra (a sacred spell) from a sage which allows her to invoke any god of the Veda and obtain a child from him. As she was young, and curious, she tried this with the Surya the Sun god. Sure enough, the sacred spell worked its magic and low - and behold! The Sun god appeared before her and handed her a child of tremendous beauty strapped with a golden impenetrable armour (called a Kavacham) and pearl earrings (called a Kundalam). Being a teenager, in a heavily patriarchal male dominated society, a newly begotten child would be very difficult to explain so she wrapped him in exotic, expensive fabric and puts him in a wooden box and floats him on the river Ganga into the hands of fate. The mystical workings of fate carries the box to the house of a childless couple whose father was called Adhirathi, a charioteer in the days of yore and mother called Radha. The couple were over-joyed to see such a beautiful child and were convinced it is of royal decent based on the birth marks, the exotic fabric and the golden kavacham and kundalam. They named him Vasusena, meaning one who was born royal decent or wealth.
Karna (also called Radheya) was born by a miraculous birth when a girl named Kunti (then a teenager) obtains a mantra (a sacred spell) from a sage which allows her to invoke any god of the Veda and obtain a child from him. As she was young, and curious, she tried this with the Surya the Sun god. Sure enough, the sacred spell worked its magic and low - and behold! The Sun god appeared before her and handed her a child of tremendous beauty strapped with a golden impenetrable armour (called a Kavacham) and pearl earrings (called a Kundalam). Being a teenager, in a heavily patriarchal male dominated society, a newly begotten child would be very difficult to explain so she wrapped him in exotic, expensive fabric and puts him in a wooden box and floats him on the river Ganga into the hands of fate. The mystical workings of fate carries the box to the house of a childless couple whose father was called Adhirathi, a charioteer in the days of yore and mother called Radha. The couple were over-joyed to see such a beautiful child and were convinced it is of royal decent based on the birth marks, the exotic fabric and the golden kavacham and kundalam. They named him Vasusena, meaning one who was born royal decent or wealth.
The Hero Arises
The boy matured, and desired to learn the art of warfare and archery from Dronacharya, the great guru of archery and warfare. However, as he was not of royal lineage the guru turned him down. He then decided to self teach himself with Sun god as his guru, but he could only surmount to so much. He needed a proper teacher. He began looking for Parashurama, the legendary warrior of the brahmin (priestly clan) who was also the teacher of Dronacharya (the guru who turned him down). He spent days and nights searching for the Asrama (hermitage) of Parashurama, weeks turned to months and death kept a dire vigil to take mighty Aryan, but as the grace of Surya is ever present, he found the Asrama of the great sage. As Parashurama would only teach Brahmins (members of the priestly cast) Karna appeared before him as a Brahmin and the duo begin training. Night and day the training took place and it was often the sage who wore out but the bull of men, Karna kept training. In time, Karna's dedication and sincerity was so great that Parashurama declared that he was his equal.
The boy matured, and desired to learn the art of warfare and archery from Dronacharya, the great guru of archery and warfare. However, as he was not of royal lineage the guru turned him down. He then decided to self teach himself with Sun god as his guru, but he could only surmount to so much. He needed a proper teacher. He began looking for Parashurama, the legendary warrior of the brahmin (priestly clan) who was also the teacher of Dronacharya (the guru who turned him down). He spent days and nights searching for the Asrama (hermitage) of Parashurama, weeks turned to months and death kept a dire vigil to take mighty Aryan, but as the grace of Surya is ever present, he found the Asrama of the great sage. As Parashurama would only teach Brahmins (members of the priestly cast) Karna appeared before him as a Brahmin and the duo begin training. Night and day the training took place and it was often the sage who wore out but the bull of men, Karna kept training. In time, Karna's dedication and sincerity was so great that Parashurama declared that he was his equal.
Volley of Curses
One day towards the end of his training, Karna offered his lap to his guru, Parashurama, so that he may rest on it after a long day of training. While sitting cross-legged his guru laid his head on his lap and slept. During this time a wasp stung him deep into his thigh but Karna did not move as he did not want to disturb his guru's nap. The wasp kept borrowing deep into his thigh and through to the bone but Karna did not fret. Eventually blood seeped into his gurus ear and Parashurama awoke. Furious that only a Kshatriya (pure blooded warrior) can withstand such pain he deduced that Karna was no Brahmin (member of the priestly class) and Karna obliged. The wrath of Parashurama knew no bounds. He immediately cursed him declaring that all the knowledge he learned from him would be useless at the time he needs it most and sends him away. Devastated the great warrior, began training by himself.
One day towards the end of his training, Karna offered his lap to his guru, Parashurama, so that he may rest on it after a long day of training. While sitting cross-legged his guru laid his head on his lap and slept. During this time a wasp stung him deep into his thigh but Karna did not move as he did not want to disturb his guru's nap. The wasp kept borrowing deep into his thigh and through to the bone but Karna did not fret. Eventually blood seeped into his gurus ear and Parashurama awoke. Furious that only a Kshatriya (pure blooded warrior) can withstand such pain he deduced that Karna was no Brahmin (member of the priestly class) and Karna obliged. The wrath of Parashurama knew no bounds. He immediately cursed him declaring that all the knowledge he learned from him would be useless at the time he needs it most and sends him away. Devastated the great warrior, began training by himself.
One day, while training, his arrow accidentally pierced a cow which immediately died from the wound. The cow belonged to a poor, poverty ridden Brahmin. Furious with the loss of his only means of survival he cursed the warrior declaring just as he murdered a helpless cow, so too will he die in a helpless manner. Fearing that if he remained in the vicinity he would accumulate more ill luck he decided to leave the Asrama of the great teacher Parashurama and made way back to the city Hastinapura.
The new king of Angadesha
As he reached the city of Hastinapura he saw a crowd gathered and the Kuru princes (the children of the Kuru lineage) were displaying their talents. Knowing this to be the opportune moment to show his art Karna went into the stadium, unannounced and uninvited. Kunti, recognizing his divine armor, the exotic fabric around his waist and the birthmarks on his arm knew beyond doubt that this was none other than her first born. Karna began showing his mastery over the bow. So much so that he equaled the mighty Arjuna (the Hero of the Mahabharata). After winning the crowd, he challenged the mighty Arjuna to a duel, but was promptly stopped by Kripacharya, the teacher of Dharma (law & virtue) and the teacher asked: "Who is your father? From what lineage do you come from? Where is your Kingdom?" as Karna could answer neither of the questions, teacher declared "Only a King can challenge a King" and Karna bowed low. Kunti throat was filled with remorse. To add insult to injury, Bhima declared that he was no different to a stray dog with mixed blood and the crowd roared with laughter. It was at this time Duryodhana the son of Dhritarashtra and Yuva-Raja (crown prince) of Hastinapura came to his rescue. Duryodhana was a cunning, shrewd, and manipulative person who knew that friendship with an archer who can equal Arjuna would be worth having in his armory. He leapt to the stadium and roared "Does the sun need anyone's permission to shine? Does the moon wait for anyone to rise? So then does a Hero need a birth-right to wield a bow? If this is the silly desire of man, let him be the King of Angadesha! I happily turn over the land of Anga to this warrior who has displayed tremendous skill in archery!" and immediately the King-maker made Karna the King of Angadesha with a full crowning ceremony, and Kunti's face swelled with pride.
As he reached the city of Hastinapura he saw a crowd gathered and the Kuru princes (the children of the Kuru lineage) were displaying their talents. Knowing this to be the opportune moment to show his art Karna went into the stadium, unannounced and uninvited. Kunti, recognizing his divine armor, the exotic fabric around his waist and the birthmarks on his arm knew beyond doubt that this was none other than her first born. Karna began showing his mastery over the bow. So much so that he equaled the mighty Arjuna (the Hero of the Mahabharata). After winning the crowd, he challenged the mighty Arjuna to a duel, but was promptly stopped by Kripacharya, the teacher of Dharma (law & virtue) and the teacher asked: "Who is your father? From what lineage do you come from? Where is your Kingdom?" as Karna could answer neither of the questions, teacher declared "Only a King can challenge a King" and Karna bowed low. Kunti throat was filled with remorse. To add insult to injury, Bhima declared that he was no different to a stray dog with mixed blood and the crowd roared with laughter. It was at this time Duryodhana the son of Dhritarashtra and Yuva-Raja (crown prince) of Hastinapura came to his rescue. Duryodhana was a cunning, shrewd, and manipulative person who knew that friendship with an archer who can equal Arjuna would be worth having in his armory. He leapt to the stadium and roared "Does the sun need anyone's permission to shine? Does the moon wait for anyone to rise? So then does a Hero need a birth-right to wield a bow? If this is the silly desire of man, let him be the King of Angadesha! I happily turn over the land of Anga to this warrior who has displayed tremendous skill in archery!" and immediately the King-maker made Karna the King of Angadesha with a full crowning ceremony, and Kunti's face swelled with pride.
The greatest philanthropist
As Karna came from a poor family, he understood the pain of poverty, as such he took an oath of charity. He decided that any time someone asks him anything, he would oblige. Soon, his charity became so renowned that many people in neighbouring cities migrated to Angadesha for enjoying his magnanimous nature. It so happened that the hero Arjuna came to hear of this and told Sri-Krishna (a divine incarnation of the god Mahavishnu, his cousin and best friend) "I feel this Karna is over-rated, any charity he performs, I too can outperform" Krishna, known for his mischievous nature decided to put this to the test. An old man appeared in Arjuna's court and begged for his charity. Seeing this an opportunity to prove to Krishna and outperform Karna, he declared "Ask anything and it shall be provided!" The old man requested "My wife passed away and her dying wish was to be cremated with sandalwood but as a poor man, I cannot see this through. It is my great fear that my wife's soul will not be put to rest. Therefore I beg you to find me enough sandalwood to accomplish this" "Tathah-astu!! SO BE IT! I shall not rest until your wife's cremation is taken care of" replied the hero Arjuna. Krishna gave a shrewd smile, knowing it was impossible to find sandalwood in this time of the year. So began Bhavarjuna's (Hero Arjuna) quest, he searched far and wide to find sandalwood but to no avail. He sent messengers across the world but none was to be found. After weeks of searching an exhausted Arjuna bowed before the old man stating he will not be able to fulfill his desire. "Pathetic King! I will make my way to Angadesha and see this through" spat the old man. Krishna advised Arjuna to disguise himself as a Brahmin and visit the famed city. Both disguised themselves and spied on the great king Karna. Upon hearing the request of the old man, Karna lost no time "Its impossible to find sandalwood in this time of the year, hmm but we must not wait, your wife's cremation is crucial, GUARDS!! Tear down any bed, furniture, or door made of Sandalwood and build a funeral pyre!" He roared and within the hour the ceremony was completed and the old man bowed humbly to the glorious king and hero Arjuna was humbled.
As Karna came from a poor family, he understood the pain of poverty, as such he took an oath of charity. He decided that any time someone asks him anything, he would oblige. Soon, his charity became so renowned that many people in neighbouring cities migrated to Angadesha for enjoying his magnanimous nature. It so happened that the hero Arjuna came to hear of this and told Sri-Krishna (a divine incarnation of the god Mahavishnu, his cousin and best friend) "I feel this Karna is over-rated, any charity he performs, I too can outperform" Krishna, known for his mischievous nature decided to put this to the test. An old man appeared in Arjuna's court and begged for his charity. Seeing this an opportunity to prove to Krishna and outperform Karna, he declared "Ask anything and it shall be provided!" The old man requested "My wife passed away and her dying wish was to be cremated with sandalwood but as a poor man, I cannot see this through. It is my great fear that my wife's soul will not be put to rest. Therefore I beg you to find me enough sandalwood to accomplish this" "Tathah-astu!! SO BE IT! I shall not rest until your wife's cremation is taken care of" replied the hero Arjuna. Krishna gave a shrewd smile, knowing it was impossible to find sandalwood in this time of the year. So began Bhavarjuna's (Hero Arjuna) quest, he searched far and wide to find sandalwood but to no avail. He sent messengers across the world but none was to be found. After weeks of searching an exhausted Arjuna bowed before the old man stating he will not be able to fulfill his desire. "Pathetic King! I will make my way to Angadesha and see this through" spat the old man. Krishna advised Arjuna to disguise himself as a Brahmin and visit the famed city. Both disguised themselves and spied on the great king Karna. Upon hearing the request of the old man, Karna lost no time "Its impossible to find sandalwood in this time of the year, hmm but we must not wait, your wife's cremation is crucial, GUARDS!! Tear down any bed, furniture, or door made of Sandalwood and build a funeral pyre!" He roared and within the hour the ceremony was completed and the old man bowed humbly to the glorious king and hero Arjuna was humbled.
The Suta-Putra
One day, the King of Pancala desha (land of Pancala) organised a svayamvara. A svayamvara is a marriage ceremony where the groom must prove his worth by completing a series of challenges and the bride would be the Veerya Shulka (the prize). This svayamvara was an archery contest where the contestant must send an arrow through several hoops and hit the target. The catch is that all the hoops were swinging like pendulums and only the most accurate shot can send the arrow through all the hoops without the arrow hitting the edge of any hoop and hit the fish at the top of the pillar. Now, if that wasn't enough a task, the bow weight was supposedly several tons (or the weight of 3 elephants) and made of a very expensive metal. The contestant had to string the bow and take the shot and it must be done without looking at the target, only at its reflection on the pot of water provided. The challenge was designed in such a way that only Arjuna could complete, as Drupada, the father of Draupadi wanted such a son-in-law. Several kings attempted but none could even lift the bow let alone string it and take the shot. Finally the great Karna got up, announced by his guards as the "King of Angadesha rises". Karna, effortlessly strings the bow and takes aim but before he can take the shot, Draupadi screams "I will not have a suta-putra (charioteers son) for my Lord" and the crowd of kings roared with laughter pointing to Karna. There were many others shouting insults and all Karna could do was bow as a trickle of tear swept through his cheek. He dropped the bow with a loud bang only to eerily hear Duryodhana's shouts of protest claiming the prize cannot choose. Duryodhana was quickly silenced by Drishtadyumna (Draupadi's older brother) claiming that Pancala practiced equal primogeniture and Draupadi was not just a 'prize'. Humiliated, and shattered, the Surya Putra (son of Surya) made his way out of the sabha (hall) and returned to his Kingdom.
One day, the King of Pancala desha (land of Pancala) organised a svayamvara. A svayamvara is a marriage ceremony where the groom must prove his worth by completing a series of challenges and the bride would be the Veerya Shulka (the prize). This svayamvara was an archery contest where the contestant must send an arrow through several hoops and hit the target. The catch is that all the hoops were swinging like pendulums and only the most accurate shot can send the arrow through all the hoops without the arrow hitting the edge of any hoop and hit the fish at the top of the pillar. Now, if that wasn't enough a task, the bow weight was supposedly several tons (or the weight of 3 elephants) and made of a very expensive metal. The contestant had to string the bow and take the shot and it must be done without looking at the target, only at its reflection on the pot of water provided. The challenge was designed in such a way that only Arjuna could complete, as Drupada, the father of Draupadi wanted such a son-in-law. Several kings attempted but none could even lift the bow let alone string it and take the shot. Finally the great Karna got up, announced by his guards as the "King of Angadesha rises". Karna, effortlessly strings the bow and takes aim but before he can take the shot, Draupadi screams "I will not have a suta-putra (charioteers son) for my Lord" and the crowd of kings roared with laughter pointing to Karna. There were many others shouting insults and all Karna could do was bow as a trickle of tear swept through his cheek. He dropped the bow with a loud bang only to eerily hear Duryodhana's shouts of protest claiming the prize cannot choose. Duryodhana was quickly silenced by Drishtadyumna (Draupadi's older brother) claiming that Pancala practiced equal primogeniture and Draupadi was not just a 'prize'. Humiliated, and shattered, the Surya Putra (son of Surya) made his way out of the sabha (hall) and returned to his Kingdom.
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| Arrow must be shot without seeing the target |
Duryodhanas best friend
There were only three people who were kind to Karna. The first two were his parents, and the other was Duryodhana. Duryodhana realized that he was much weaker than his cousins the Pandavas (Arjuna and his Brothers) and they posed imminent threat to his throne. Hero Bhima (another brother of Arjuna), alone could take down an army of giants (known as Rakshasas) and Arjuna had mastered the use of various celestial weapons kept secret by the legendary Dronacharya (the guru of the princes). In battle he wouldn't stand a chance against the five of them, but when he saw how Karna effortlessly outshone Arjuna when the princes were showing their talents he knew he had to have him. By giving Angadesha to Karna, he merely used a small fish to bait a bigger one. For Karna, however, Duryodhana was more than just a friend. He was like a brother to him. No one had stood for him in his downtrodden life. No one had spoken against his abuse let alone donate a kingdom. Karna decided that he would lay his life for Duryodhana in a heartbeat. It just so happened that the svayamvara of Bhanumathi the daughter of Chitrangada ruler of Kalinga was in place. Duryodhana took one look at her and was smitten. He scourged Karna's left shoulder and declared he wants her more than anything. Karna was overjoyed as this was an attempt to give his best friend something he so desired and prove his loyalty. The trouble was, Bhanumathi was truly gorgeous. The Mahabharata describes her to be of celestial beauty, with perfect hips, deep bosoms, an hourglass figure and skin fairer than snow. With such beauty, naturally there would be ardent competition. The greatest kings of the land had arrived to the ceremony, and it included Jarasandha (known for his invincibility on the wrestling ring) Sishupala, Bhishmaka, Rukmi, Sringa, Kapotraman all who were renowned warriors. Sadly, for Duryodhana:
There were only three people who were kind to Karna. The first two were his parents, and the other was Duryodhana. Duryodhana realized that he was much weaker than his cousins the Pandavas (Arjuna and his Brothers) and they posed imminent threat to his throne. Hero Bhima (another brother of Arjuna), alone could take down an army of giants (known as Rakshasas) and Arjuna had mastered the use of various celestial weapons kept secret by the legendary Dronacharya (the guru of the princes). In battle he wouldn't stand a chance against the five of them, but when he saw how Karna effortlessly outshone Arjuna when the princes were showing their talents he knew he had to have him. By giving Angadesha to Karna, he merely used a small fish to bait a bigger one. For Karna, however, Duryodhana was more than just a friend. He was like a brother to him. No one had stood for him in his downtrodden life. No one had spoken against his abuse let alone donate a kingdom. Karna decided that he would lay his life for Duryodhana in a heartbeat. It just so happened that the svayamvara of Bhanumathi the daughter of Chitrangada ruler of Kalinga was in place. Duryodhana took one look at her and was smitten. He scourged Karna's left shoulder and declared he wants her more than anything. Karna was overjoyed as this was an attempt to give his best friend something he so desired and prove his loyalty. The trouble was, Bhanumathi was truly gorgeous. The Mahabharata describes her to be of celestial beauty, with perfect hips, deep bosoms, an hourglass figure and skin fairer than snow. With such beauty, naturally there would be ardent competition. The greatest kings of the land had arrived to the ceremony, and it included Jarasandha (known for his invincibility on the wrestling ring) Sishupala, Bhishmaka, Rukmi, Sringa, Kapotraman all who were renowned warriors. Sadly, for Duryodhana:
After all those kings had taken their seats, O Bharata, the maiden entered the arena, accompanied by her nurse and a guard of eunuchs. Whilst being informed of the names of the kings (as she made her round), that maiden of the fairest complexion passed by the son of Dhritarashtra (as she had passed others before him).
Duryodhana's heart sank deep. She walked past him. She did not choose him. She did not fling the garland over his neck. Karna sensed Duryodhana's anguish, he saw him and tilted his head towards her, Duryodhana immediately understood. He got up and carried Bhanumathi by the hips with Karna behind him sword drawn and placed her in his chariot. The residing kings roared in furor and attacked, a cloud of arrows covered the sky and Karna made short work of each of them while Duryodhana escaped with his bride. Upon reaching his kingdom, Duryodhana justifies his actions claiming that a king can righteously kidnap a bride just as his great grandfather Bhishma did.
Even though most of Karna's friendship was a barter for Duryodhana, Duryodhana trusted him devoutly. On one occasion, Bhanumathi and Karna were playing dice and it was evident that Karna was winning and she was losing, quite miserably too. Karna was seated with his back against the door while Bhanumathi was facing door. Just then Duryodhana entered and Bhanumathi began to stand but Karna thinking she was trying to escape a humiliating defeat grabbed her sari (a draped Indian garment) which was studded with pearls. As the mighty hands of the great Aryan pulled lightly, all the pearls fell from the sari and the two were in a very compromising situation. An awkward silence fell across the chamber. Bhanumathi will be shamed for no fault of her and Karna's loyalty is open for scrutiny. Duryodhana merely asked "well should I just pick up the pearls or string them as well ?" Throughout his life, Duryodhana protected and stood up for Karna. In return Karna developed a stringent affection for this brotherly love.
Prelude to War
After the Draupadi Vastraharanam (stripping of Draupadi) war became inevitable. The Pandavas were thirsting for vengeance and oaths had to be met. Duryodhana played a game of dice in which the Pandavas (Arjuna and his brothers) lost and were exiled for 13 years. They had to remain incognito for the last year or else return to exile for another 13 years. During this period, Karna subdued all the nearby Kingdoms and won an empire for his fraternal brother. By the grace of Sri-Krishna, and some keen loyalists, the Pandavas survived the exile. Now they were back and demanded a Kingdom. Krishna agrees to be a peace maker. He would go to the Kaurava kingdom and request for 5 cities to rule for the five Pandavas. Upon reaching, he started the negotiations with 5 cities, then to 5 tribes, then 5 villages, then 5 plots of land to farm in, and finally 5 houses all which Duryodhana refused adamantly. Finally Krishna asks for just one house, to which Duryodhana replied "I will not part with a needle tip amount of land!" "Then the Pandavas declare war" Krishna spoke, and left the sabha (hall). As he was leaving he spoke with Karna, and told him the secret of his birth. He was the son of the sun god Surya, the first born son of Kunti and thus a Pandava by birth. He mentioned that upon informing this to the Pandavas, the eldest Pandava will happily give up his throne and he can have the beautiful Draupadi as his wife. Krishna tempted him with everything, he said "with you on Arjunas side the war is won, and the Kauravas dont stand a chance, come dear Surya Putra, embrace dharma, embrace your birthright, rule as emperor of Indraprashta". He prodded on with imploring eyes knowing that Karnas decision could even avert war itself. Karna, however asked him "Where was my mother when, in front of her Bhima called me a stray dog? Where was she when, in front of her, Draupadi called me a Suta despite being King of Anga? Where was my birthright when Dronacharya turned me away? There was only one man who stood by me, stood for me, and stood with me. One man whose salt I have greedily eaten. While my blood brothers were busy mocking me, my fraternal brother made me a King, betrothed me to a wife of the Kshatriya (warrior) clan thereby ensuring my progeny live as pure blooded warriors, when the world asked my what my lineage was he took me up for my skill. How can I abandon him now when he needs me most for something as trivial as birthright? No Kesava! (another name for Krishna), I will not leave my brother, I will not abandon my only benefactor, this is not dharma to me. This is only cowardice. It is better for me to die in the preceding war than as the coward who left his brother for a beautiful maiden and a kingdom!" Krishna gave a deep sigh, and congratulated Karna on his loyalty stating that few would give up such riches for ethics.
After the Draupadi Vastraharanam (stripping of Draupadi) war became inevitable. The Pandavas were thirsting for vengeance and oaths had to be met. Duryodhana played a game of dice in which the Pandavas (Arjuna and his brothers) lost and were exiled for 13 years. They had to remain incognito for the last year or else return to exile for another 13 years. During this period, Karna subdued all the nearby Kingdoms and won an empire for his fraternal brother. By the grace of Sri-Krishna, and some keen loyalists, the Pandavas survived the exile. Now they were back and demanded a Kingdom. Krishna agrees to be a peace maker. He would go to the Kaurava kingdom and request for 5 cities to rule for the five Pandavas. Upon reaching, he started the negotiations with 5 cities, then to 5 tribes, then 5 villages, then 5 plots of land to farm in, and finally 5 houses all which Duryodhana refused adamantly. Finally Krishna asks for just one house, to which Duryodhana replied "I will not part with a needle tip amount of land!" "Then the Pandavas declare war" Krishna spoke, and left the sabha (hall). As he was leaving he spoke with Karna, and told him the secret of his birth. He was the son of the sun god Surya, the first born son of Kunti and thus a Pandava by birth. He mentioned that upon informing this to the Pandavas, the eldest Pandava will happily give up his throne and he can have the beautiful Draupadi as his wife. Krishna tempted him with everything, he said "with you on Arjunas side the war is won, and the Kauravas dont stand a chance, come dear Surya Putra, embrace dharma, embrace your birthright, rule as emperor of Indraprashta". He prodded on with imploring eyes knowing that Karnas decision could even avert war itself. Karna, however asked him "Where was my mother when, in front of her Bhima called me a stray dog? Where was she when, in front of her, Draupadi called me a Suta despite being King of Anga? Where was my birthright when Dronacharya turned me away? There was only one man who stood by me, stood for me, and stood with me. One man whose salt I have greedily eaten. While my blood brothers were busy mocking me, my fraternal brother made me a King, betrothed me to a wife of the Kshatriya (warrior) clan thereby ensuring my progeny live as pure blooded warriors, when the world asked my what my lineage was he took me up for my skill. How can I abandon him now when he needs me most for something as trivial as birthright? No Kesava! (another name for Krishna), I will not leave my brother, I will not abandon my only benefactor, this is not dharma to me. This is only cowardice. It is better for me to die in the preceding war than as the coward who left his brother for a beautiful maiden and a kingdom!" Krishna gave a deep sigh, and congratulated Karna on his loyalty stating that few would give up such riches for ethics.
Maiming the Hero
Krishna knew with Karna in the battle, the war will be considerably difficult to win. Karna wore the invincible armour (kavacham and kundalam) of Surya and in battle he was superior than all the Pandavas except the Hero Arjuna. So he formulated a plan. He asked Indra, the god of war, to dress as a poor Brahmin and request the invincible armor. Surya, the sun-god, aware of Krishna's mischievous ploy, warned Karna of the impeding request. Karna had taken an oath of charity and told Surya "Dear father, your love for me only floods my eyes with tears, but I have taken an oath of charity, and unto death I shall not give this up, even if Indra himself comes I shall happily give my armor" and as expected, an old brahmin stood outside Anga-rajas (King of Angadesha) palace requesting a boon. Karna happily donated his armor and earrings to the Brahmin who became compassionate to the son of Surya and in turn gave him an invincible weapon which will kill its target without fail known as the Aindrastra (Indras personal weapon) but it can only be used once. Karna refused it at first, because it would no longer be charity and it would become barter, but then the Brahmin threw off his disguise and Karna obtained the vision of the mighty Indra, god of gods, the powerful Vajra-Hasta (one who holds the weapon Vajra), and knelt humbly before him and accepted the arrow shaped dart.
Krishna knew with Karna in the battle, the war will be considerably difficult to win. Karna wore the invincible armour (kavacham and kundalam) of Surya and in battle he was superior than all the Pandavas except the Hero Arjuna. So he formulated a plan. He asked Indra, the god of war, to dress as a poor Brahmin and request the invincible armor. Surya, the sun-god, aware of Krishna's mischievous ploy, warned Karna of the impeding request. Karna had taken an oath of charity and told Surya "Dear father, your love for me only floods my eyes with tears, but I have taken an oath of charity, and unto death I shall not give this up, even if Indra himself comes I shall happily give my armor" and as expected, an old brahmin stood outside Anga-rajas (King of Angadesha) palace requesting a boon. Karna happily donated his armor and earrings to the Brahmin who became compassionate to the son of Surya and in turn gave him an invincible weapon which will kill its target without fail known as the Aindrastra (Indras personal weapon) but it can only be used once. Karna refused it at first, because it would no longer be charity and it would become barter, but then the Brahmin threw off his disguise and Karna obtained the vision of the mighty Indra, god of gods, the powerful Vajra-Hasta (one who holds the weapon Vajra), and knelt humbly before him and accepted the arrow shaped dart.
Krishna knew this was not enough, Karna alone can slaughter all the Pandavas with ease barring Arjuna who was his equal. Krishna had to completely maim Karna in order leave him useless against the Pandavas, and he knew just the method: Kunti. Karna's weakness was his blind charity. He would give anything to anyone, even if it meant certain death for him, especially if his biological mother pressed the right buttons. Krishna instructed Kunti to request Karna not take part in the war, if Karna refused then she requested that Karna should only kill 1 of the 5 brothers.
As instructed, she went to Karna and implored him to give up this ambition. Karna refused stating that Duryodhana had already requested his services before she did and thus he cannot go back on his words. Then Kunti reminded him that she was his own mother, and that she would not like to have her son commit fratricide. Karna stood with tears in his eyes, unable to decide. He could not give up Duryodhana but his own mother requested a boon and he could not give. "Mother, If you had called me the day I walked into the stadium, today I will be yours, I was nothing without Duryodhana, I am bound to serve him" He said. "Then give me this one boon, spare your brothers, kill anyone else but spare your brothers" she asked, "throughout my life, Arjuna mocked me, I give you my word, I shall not kill anyone of my brothers but Arjuna. I cannot leave Arjuna." He said. Kunti seeing his weakness immediately asked another boon "Then promise me you wont use the celestial weapons more than once on Arjuna" "Tathaastu! So be it! I shall not use the celestial weapons more than once" He declared. "Now mother, you have asked me many boons, I wish to ask just one, throughout my life, everyone cast me down as the father-less bastard, Everyone called me 'the low born', the suta-putra, mother, my only wish, is that you proclaim me as your son upon my death. This is all I ask for. This is all I want! I want you to mourn my death as you would for your own son, beat your chest as a mother would. For once in my life, give me a family. I know this is my last battle, my last war. Please, please make me your son, just this once" He implored and the two hugged each other wailing piteously knowing the outcome to be certain death.
The Kurukshetra war
Bhishma was declared the generalismo (commander-in-chief) of the war to the Kauravas and he refused to take Karna as a soldier owing to the fact that he was involved in the stripping of Draupadi and he insulted his guru Parashurama by lying to him. However, he secretly knew Karna's lineage and hence did not want him to commit fratricide so he used this as an excuse. So for the first 11days Karna did not fight, only after Bhishma dies, does he rise, under the command of weapons master Dronacharya. When Drona was left in command Karna devastated the Pandava army. He was like death's incarnate, to such an extent that even Sri-Krishna admired the son of Surya. On the fourteenth day, the war went deep into the night and Krishna let loose Bhimas son Ghatokatcha who was a Rakshasa. Rakshasas get tremendously powerful at night and Ghatokatcha wreaked havoc. Drona gave the command "Kill Ghatokatcha at all costs or die trying" to Karna. Karna drew his chariot to Ghatokatcha and the duo began a terrible battle. Soldiers upon soldiers ran to Karna's aid but to no avail. The rakshasa thrashed them like ants Karna had no choice so he invoked the Aindrastra (the weapon of Indra) on Ghatokatcha killing him instantly. Krishna smiled knowing Arjuna was now safe, as he cannot use this weapon against him.
Bhishma was declared the generalismo (commander-in-chief) of the war to the Kauravas and he refused to take Karna as a soldier owing to the fact that he was involved in the stripping of Draupadi and he insulted his guru Parashurama by lying to him. However, he secretly knew Karna's lineage and hence did not want him to commit fratricide so he used this as an excuse. So for the first 11days Karna did not fight, only after Bhishma dies, does he rise, under the command of weapons master Dronacharya. When Drona was left in command Karna devastated the Pandava army. He was like death's incarnate, to such an extent that even Sri-Krishna admired the son of Surya. On the fourteenth day, the war went deep into the night and Krishna let loose Bhimas son Ghatokatcha who was a Rakshasa. Rakshasas get tremendously powerful at night and Ghatokatcha wreaked havoc. Drona gave the command "Kill Ghatokatcha at all costs or die trying" to Karna. Karna drew his chariot to Ghatokatcha and the duo began a terrible battle. Soldiers upon soldiers ran to Karna's aid but to no avail. The rakshasa thrashed them like ants Karna had no choice so he invoked the Aindrastra (the weapon of Indra) on Ghatokatcha killing him instantly. Krishna smiled knowing Arjuna was now safe, as he cannot use this weapon against him.
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| Ghatotkacha Vs Karna |
Karna Parva
On the sixteenth day, Karna was given a charioteer named Shalya. Shalya was a proud King and hated the idea of being a charioteer. He especially hated being Karna's charioteer as Karna was the son of a charioteer. Shalya hated Karna, and kept hurling abuses at him. Shalya was also Arjuna's maternal uncle. Shalya criticized every move made by Karna. Karna's temperament was severely tested. Karna fought every one of the Pandava brothers except for Arjuna and defeated them but spared all of their lives. He defeated Bhima and threw him off his chariot. Bhima screamed "Kill me! Please! Id rather die than live in the shame of loosing to a Suta Putra!!" but Karna remembered his vow to his mother and spared him. Finally Karna met the Hero Arjuna on the battlefield and knew this was the opportune moment to launch the celestial weapon called the Nagastra which was used by Indrajeet against Lakshmana. It would be a direct shot, instant kill. Shalya advised him to aim for the chest, but knowing Shalya to be his maternal uncle, Karna thought he had plotted something. Further, Shalya had insulted, criticized and abused him the whole day. "NO! I will aim for his head, instead" Karna replied and launched the devastating weapon. Arjuna gasped in horror "KRISHNA! S-S-SAVE ME!" he stammered, and dropped his armor and knelt with his palms against each other. At this time, the god-incarnate Sri-Krishna pressed his big toe against the chariot base and the wheels of the chariot sunk deep into the ground and the Nagastra hit Arjunas crown sparing the great hero. Shalya cursed Karna for his idiocy and asked him to take aim again while the chariot was wedged into the ground, but Karna didnt. He had given his word to Kunti that will not wield the celestial weapons more than once against Arjuna. It was also against the code of conduct for him to kill a helpless man. This was the last straw for Shalya, he got off the chariot and left him.
On the sixteenth day, Karna was given a charioteer named Shalya. Shalya was a proud King and hated the idea of being a charioteer. He especially hated being Karna's charioteer as Karna was the son of a charioteer. Shalya hated Karna, and kept hurling abuses at him. Shalya was also Arjuna's maternal uncle. Shalya criticized every move made by Karna. Karna's temperament was severely tested. Karna fought every one of the Pandava brothers except for Arjuna and defeated them but spared all of their lives. He defeated Bhima and threw him off his chariot. Bhima screamed "Kill me! Please! Id rather die than live in the shame of loosing to a Suta Putra!!" but Karna remembered his vow to his mother and spared him. Finally Karna met the Hero Arjuna on the battlefield and knew this was the opportune moment to launch the celestial weapon called the Nagastra which was used by Indrajeet against Lakshmana. It would be a direct shot, instant kill. Shalya advised him to aim for the chest, but knowing Shalya to be his maternal uncle, Karna thought he had plotted something. Further, Shalya had insulted, criticized and abused him the whole day. "NO! I will aim for his head, instead" Karna replied and launched the devastating weapon. Arjuna gasped in horror "KRISHNA! S-S-SAVE ME!" he stammered, and dropped his armor and knelt with his palms against each other. At this time, the god-incarnate Sri-Krishna pressed his big toe against the chariot base and the wheels of the chariot sunk deep into the ground and the Nagastra hit Arjunas crown sparing the great hero. Shalya cursed Karna for his idiocy and asked him to take aim again while the chariot was wedged into the ground, but Karna didnt. He had given his word to Kunti that will not wield the celestial weapons more than once against Arjuna. It was also against the code of conduct for him to kill a helpless man. This was the last straw for Shalya, he got off the chariot and left him.
Karna drove the chariot and defended himself. The seventeenth day approached. The two heroes met each other once more. This was perhaps the most cataclysmic event in the whole Mahabharata epic. Both knew this was the final battle. Only one would walk out of this alive, the eleventh hour had approach for one of them. The soldiers near-by dropped their weapons and watched the heroes face each other. The gods in the heavens looked down on what would be the greatest battle to ever occur. Arjuna drew the first arrow, a celestial weapon and Karna defended it. Then the battle began. Arrows covered the sky and blocked the sun. The great son of Surya drove his chariot and defended himself. Twice he broke Arjuna's bow. Karna fought bravely but he started forgetting all his gurus instructions. His bow started slipping from his hand, a feat that never happened. Then his chariot got stuck in the mud making him helpless. It became painfully obvious to Karna what was about to happen next. "The curses are beginning to take effect" he thought. He got out of his chariot and attempted to lift the wheel but could not do so. Arjuna took aim when Karna told him he was helpless, but Krishna egged Arjuna on declaring that Karna murdered Arjuna's son Abhimanyu in the same way. Finally Arjuna released the final arrow which severed Karna's head from his shoulder while his back was turned facing the chariot's wheel. With a loud thud the great hero fell to the ground.
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| The great warriors eleventh hour |
On that night, Kunti beat her chest mourning the loss of her son just like she promised. It was then the five Pandavas realized the true lineage of Karna. All five of them including Arjuna mourned. It was a solemn day in the battlefield. Yudhisthira, the eldest brother performed the funeral rites.
Legacy
Many declare Karna to be over-rated. Undeserving of pity because he joined the wrong cause. Its easy to judge and criticize. Life as a low born during this period was difficult, especially if you're ambitious. Karna-haters happily vilify him by stating he cause the Draupadi vastraharam, this is not true. Karna wanted to teach Draupadi that despite higher birth, her husbands were not able to protect them, it was Duryodhana who attempted to strip her. Many others claim that Karna killed Abhimanyu mercilessly, but Karna was a soldier under the command of Drona. He was obligated to carry out his order. He had no choice in the battlefield. Abhimanyus death is just as much as Drona, Dushasana, Duryodhana and lakshmana's (Duryodhana's son) fault as it is Karna's. Karna just wanted to fit in. He just wanted to be accepted, and Duryodhana did just that. Its amazing how we define good and bad based on the victory of the winning party. Had Duryodhana won, would Karna be seen in a different light? Karna was generous, loyal and noble who kept his word despite all odds. Yet there are plenty who vilify him. It was truly fate that threw him into evil yet he still showed the nobility of his actions despite overwhelming forces against him.
Many declare Karna to be over-rated. Undeserving of pity because he joined the wrong cause. Its easy to judge and criticize. Life as a low born during this period was difficult, especially if you're ambitious. Karna-haters happily vilify him by stating he cause the Draupadi vastraharam, this is not true. Karna wanted to teach Draupadi that despite higher birth, her husbands were not able to protect them, it was Duryodhana who attempted to strip her. Many others claim that Karna killed Abhimanyu mercilessly, but Karna was a soldier under the command of Drona. He was obligated to carry out his order. He had no choice in the battlefield. Abhimanyus death is just as much as Drona, Dushasana, Duryodhana and lakshmana's (Duryodhana's son) fault as it is Karna's. Karna just wanted to fit in. He just wanted to be accepted, and Duryodhana did just that. Its amazing how we define good and bad based on the victory of the winning party. Had Duryodhana won, would Karna be seen in a different light? Karna was generous, loyal and noble who kept his word despite all odds. Yet there are plenty who vilify him. It was truly fate that threw him into evil yet he still showed the nobility of his actions despite overwhelming forces against him.
