Radha Krishna Love Story – Chapter 8: The Mahabharata War

The War of Mahabharata

In the previous chapter, we saw how Krishna conducted Dwarka as a skilled statesman and strengthened his relations with the Pandavas. Now, the wheel of destiny had turned, and the war of Mahabharata, the ultimate decisive battle between Dharma and Adharma, was about to take place on the land of Kurukshetra. The entire Aryavarta was immersed in the shadow of this devastating war, with fear and apprehension residing in every heart.

The Battlefield of Kurukshetra

Vast armies stood face to face on the land of Kurukshetra. The atmosphere was resonating with the sound of conches and drums. Arjuna, holding his Gandiva bow, became distraught upon seeing his relatives, teachers, and friends on the battlefield. Attachment arose in his mind, and his body began to tremble. He did not want to fight the war, because he did not want to kill his own people. His heart was filled with compassion.

Arjuna looked at Krishna and said, "O Keshav, how can I fight against my guru, grandfather Bhishma, and my brothers? I do not want victory, nor a kingdom, if I have to shed the blood of my own people. My Gandiva is slipping from my hands, and my mind is confused."

The Teachings of the Gita

Seeing Arjuna's distress, Krishna gave him the teachings of the Gita. He explained to Arjuna the path of Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Jnana Yoga. He explained that the soul is immortal, and the body is perishable. He inspired Arjuna to follow his Kshatriya Dharma, and explained to him that it is necessary to fight for the establishment of Dharma. Krishna showed Arjuna the vision of his Virat form, through which Arjuna gained knowledge of the truth.

Krishna said, "Arjuna, do your duty, do not worry about the results. This war is not only for you, but for the establishment of Dharma. It is your duty to destroy Adharma and protect Dharma. Arise, Arjuna, and fight!" There was nectar in Krishna's voice, which removed attachment from Arjuna's mind and inspired him to walk on the path of duty. By his grace, Arjuna's delusion was removed and he realized his Dharma.

Establishment of Dharma

After the teachings of the Gita, Arjuna picked up the Gandiva and joined the war. The war of Mahabharata lasted for eighteen days, in which millions of warriors were killed. In the end, the Pandavas defeated the Kauravas, and Dharma was established. Krishna helped the Pandavas in every possible way, and led them to victory. He proved that every possible effort should be made to protect Dharma. This war was not just a war, but a conflict between Dharma and Adharma, in which Dharma triumphed.