Mahabharata Episode 72: Day Eighteen of The War

Summary

Summary of "Mahabharata Episode 72: Day Eighteen of The War"

The Stories of Mahabharata podcast, hosted by Sudipta Bhawmik, delves deep into the climactic eighteenth day of the great Kurukshetra war. This episode intricately portrays the downfall of the Kaurava forces and the decisive victory of the Pandavas. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the pivotal moments, strategic maneuvers, and profound emotions that unfold during this critical juncture of the epic.

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1. Duryodhana’s Despair and the Appointment of Shalya

As the eighteenth day dawns, Duryodhana finds himself grappling with immense loss. Over the previous seventeen days, he has lost three of his paramount warriors: Bhishma, Drona, and Karna. These losses have severely weakened his army's morale and strategic strength.

Key Quote:

Duryodhana states resolutely, “Surrender to Yudhishthir and live on his charity. Never. Even if he accepts me as the King of Astinapur, I have to bow to him forever because of his generosity. It is better to die a glorious death in battle than to live like a slave.”
[05:10 - 05:31]

Refusing Kripacharya’s counsel to negotiate a truce, Duryodhana remains steadfast in his resolve to fight to the end. Recognizing the dire need for effective leadership, he seeks a new commander in chief. Aswathama recommends King Shalya of Madra, praising his valor and unwavering loyalty. Duryodhana, impressed by this suggestion, appoints Shalya as the new leader of the Kaurava forces.

Key Quote:

Duryodhana to Shalya, “Dear uncle, now is the time to test who is our friend and who is our foe. You are as powerful as Bhishma and Drona and as wise as Krishna. Now you are our only hope.”
[06:25 - 06:58]

2. The Resumption of Battle and Shalya’s Demise

With Shalya at the helm, the Kaurava army regains a semblance of order. However, the Pandavas, bolstered by their recent victories and strategic acumen, intensify their offensive. Shalya proves to be a formidable opponent, matching the prowess of previous Kaurava leaders.

Amidst fierce combat, Shalya engages in a brutal duel with Bhim. The battle is relentless, showcasing the indomitable spirit of both warriors. Ultimately, Yudhishthira steps forward with resolve to eliminate Shalya, recognizing the significance of his defeat.

Key Quote:

Yudhishthira declares, “Uncle Shalya, you abandoned the path of Dharma and joined the evil Kauravas. And for that sin my arrow will kill you now.”
[12:13 - 12:21]

Yudhishthira's calculated attack pierces Shalya’s defenses, leading to his untimely demise. This pivotal moment leaves the Kaurava forces in disarray, as Shalya was not only a key commander but also a symbol of their dwindling hope.

3. The Pursuit of Duryodhana

With the Kaurava leadership in shambles, Duryodhana senses the impending doom. In a desperate bid to salvage his position, he flees the battlefield, seeking refuge in the secluded cove of Lake Dwaipayan. His disappearance signifies the near-total collapse of his army's resistance.

As dusk approaches, Aswathama, Kripacharya, and Kritavarma recognize the futility of further combat and decide to scour the battlefield for Duryodhana. Their search symbolizes the last stand of the Kaurava morale, striving to unify and counter the overwhelming prowess of the Pandavas.

4. The Climactic Duel: Bhim vs. Duryodhana

Determined to conclude the war, Yudhishthira refuses to leave the battlefield until Duryodhana is found. He confronts Krishna, expressing his unwavering intent to defeat the Kaurava leader.

Key Quote:

Yudhishthira to Krishna, “We will give you whatever you need to fight us. You may pick any weapon of your choice and choose to fight any one of us five brothers. If you kill the person whom you choose to fight, the kingdom is yours. Do you agree?”
[22:19 - 22:37]

Understanding the depth of Yudhishthira's determination, Krishna counsels him on the necessity of unconventional tactics to overcome skilled adversaries. Despite Krishna’s reservations, Bhim steps forward, committed to honoring his promise to avenge Draupadi’s insult by killing Duryodhana.

Key Quote:

Bhim asserts, “Brother Yudhishthir. Allow me to fight Duryodhana. I have promised to kill him and I want to honor it.”
[23:28 - 23:35]

A fierce mace duel ensues between Bhim and Duryodhana, illustrating the raw strength and strategic brilliance of both warriors. As the battle rages, Krishna employs a subtle yet impactful strategy by signaling Arjuna to remind Bhim of his vow. This pivotal intervention leads Bhim to execute a decisive blow, breaking Duryodhana’s thighs as retribution for earlier misdeeds.

Key Quote:

Bhim declares, “You evil man. Do you remember how you and your brother Dushasana insulted Draupadi? I kept my promise by drinking Dushasana's blood and now I honor the second one by breaking your thighs.”
[28:02 - 28:19]

The culmination of the duel results in Duryodhana’s defeat, marking the end of his tyrannical reign and the Kaurava resistance.

5. Aftermath and Divine Intervention

With Duryodhana’s fall, the Kaurava army dissolves into chaos, leading to an unequivocal Pandava victory. However, the victory is not without contention. Balaram, Krishna’s brother, erupts in anger over Bhim’s severe actions, deeming them against the rules of fair combat.

Key Quote:

Balaram exclaims, “Unfair. This is unfair. Bhim hit my pupil Duryodhana below his navel. This is against the rules. I will punish him.”
[28:35 - 28:53]

Krishna defends Bhim’s actions, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling promises and the necessity of decisive action against evil. Despite Krishna’s rationale, Balaram remains unconvinced and withdraws from the aftermath, underscoring the complex interplay of dharma (righteousness) and personal ethics in the epic.

Key Quote:

Krishna advises, “Bhim did what he did only to keep his promise. Duryodhana may be your person, but he is the enemy of our allies, the Pandavas.”
[29:16 - 29:19]

Duryodhana, gravely wounded and humiliated, confronts Krishna, laying blame for his downfall and unveiling deep-seated grievances.

Key Quote:

Duryodhana accuses, “You have been playing dirty all along. It was you who used Shikhandi to kill Bhishma. It was you who spread the lie about Ashwathama's death to kill Drona. If you had played fair, the Pandavas could have never defeated us.”
[29:54 - 30:15]

In response, Krishna dismisses Duryodhana’s complaints, highlighting the use of strategic deception as a legitimate means to overcome formidable foes—a recurring theme in Mahabharata’s exploration of dharma.

6. Conclusion: The End of the Kurukshetra War

As the sun sets over Kurukshetra, the battlefield stands silent, bearing testament to the harrowing conflicts that transpired. The Pandavas, victorious yet burdened by the carnage, depart with a somber reflection on the cost of war and the moral complexities entwined within it.

Final Quote:

Krishna concludes, “Don’t pay attention to Duryodhana’s whining. It isn't unusual to leverage unconventional strategies to win a battle. For ages, people and gods have resorted to deception and other means to defeat a more powerful enemy.”
[31:03 - 31:29]

The episode encapsulates the culmination of one of history’s greatest epics, intertwining valor, strategy, righteousness, and the profound human emotions that drive the narrative of the Mahabharata.

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Notable Themes and Insights:

• Dharma vs. Pragmatism: The episode intricately balances the concept of dharma (righteous duty) against pragmatic strategies necessary for survival and victory.

• Leadership and Loyalty: Duryodhana’s unwavering commitment, even in despair, juxtaposes the Pandavas’ strategic acumen and moral high ground.

• Divine Influence: Krishna’s pivotal role underscores the divine intervention in human affairs, guiding the Pandavas towards their destined victory.

• Consequences of War: The episode doesn’t shy away from showcasing the emotional and ethical toll of war, highlighting the personal vendettas and broken promises that fuel the conflict.

This detailed portrayal not only serves as a faithful retelling of the Mahabharata but also invites listeners to reflect on the timeless lessons embedded within its narrative.

Transcript

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[Narrator]

The Stories of Mahabharata Retold by Sudipta Bhomik.

[Podcast Host]

Welcome dear friends, to another episode.

[Narrator]

Of the Stories of Mahabharata. In the last episode, we heard how on the 17th day of the war, Bhim killed Dushan and kept his promise. We also heard how Arjun killed an unarmed and helpless Karna while he was trying to free his chariot wheel. Duryodhana was sitting alone in his tent contemplating. Seventeen days had passed and in those handful of days he had lost three of his greatest warriors. Bhishma, Dron and Karna. He had embarked upon this war depending.

[Podcast Host]

Solely on the might of these three.

[Narrator]

But the Pandavas had shattered his dreams. Bhishma and Drona were old and neither of them gave their best to fight the Pandavas.

[Podcast Host]

Their death didn't perturb Duryodhan as much.

[Narrator]

As the loss of his dearest friend. With Karna's fall, Duryodhan knew the war had already slipped away from his grip. It was only a matter of time before Yudhishthir and his brothers would claim complete victory and take over the throne of Astinapur. Duryodhana felt lonely and a deep feeling.

[Podcast Host]

Of despair was overwhelmed him as tears.

[Narrator]

Rolled down his cheeks. Just then Kripacharya, Ashwathama, Shalya and Kritavarma entered his tent. Duryodhana was in no mood to welcome them. He sat still with his head bowed. Kripacharya broke the silence. My dear Duryodhana, I think the time has come to revisit our options. Kshatriya Dharma says that a warrior should never give up. He must fight till the end. However, the scriptures also dictate that when one is weakened in battle it is advisable to negotiate a truce with the enemy. If we declare a ceasefire and request the Pandavas, I am sure Yudhishthir would accept you as the King. Maybe that is our best option at this moment. Duryodhan stood up slowly and faced Kripacharya. You speak like a wise man and your advice is well intentioned. Every word you speak is for my good. However, I cannot accept your proposal.

[Podcast Host]

Surrender to Yudhishthir and live on his charity. Never. Even if he accepts me as the King of Astinapur I'll have to bow to him forever because of his generosity. It is better to die a glorious death in battle than to live like a slave.

[Narrator]

Besides, why would Yudhishthir agree to such a proposal?

[Podcast Host]

Especially after all that we have done to them.

[Narrator]

Listen to me. Tomorrow we will fight with all our might.

[Podcast Host]

We have gallant warriors like you and I believe we still have the capability to win.

[Narrator]

Now we need to find us a commander in chief.

[Podcast Host]

Aswathama, tell me, who do you think.

[Narrator]

Should lead us to battle tomorrow? Aswathama bowed to Duryodhana and said O.

[Podcast Host]

King, in my opinion King Shalaya would.

[Narrator]

Be the best person to be our next Commander in Chief.

[Podcast Host]

He is not only a valiant warrior.

[Narrator]

But has proved his loyalty to you.

[Podcast Host]

By abandoning his own nephews and his joining your side.

[Narrator]

Duryodhana was pleased with the suggestion. He walked towards Shalaya with folded hands and said Dear uncle, now is the time to test who is our friend and who is our foe.

[Podcast Host]

You are strong and skilled in using various weapons.

[Narrator]

You are as powerful as Bheeshma and.

[Podcast Host]

Drone and as wise as Krishna.

[Narrator]

Now you are our only hope.

[Podcast Host]

I pray you lead us in the battle as our new Commander in chief.

[Narrator]

Shalaya was Delighted with the praise, he touched Duryodhan's head and said, My dear Duryodhana, I am pleased and honoured to have won your trust and confidence. I accept your offer to lead the Kaurava army. Tomorrow you will witness my true might.

[Podcast Host]

When I destroy the Pandavas.

[Narrator]

Duryodhan called in the priests to conduct the rituals and ceremony to appoint Shalya the King of Madra as the next Kaurava Commander in Chief. When the news reached the Pandava camp, Yudhishthir stepped into Krishna's tent and asked Duryodhan has appointed our uncle, the great warrior King Shalaya as his Commander in Chief. How do you suggest we defeat him? Krishna smiled. Shalaya is indeed extremely powerful and could prove to be quite dangerous. He is stronger than most of our Pandava warriors. However, I feel you are the best person, perhaps the only person who can kill the Madra King. If you don't go soft on him because he is your uncle then I am sure tomorrow Shalaya will die at your hands. The next morning the Kaurava generals Kripa, Kritavarma, Asvattama, Shalya and Sakuni met with Duryodhana and decided that none of them would engage in a one on one combat with the Pandavas during the battle. They would always cover and protect each other and won't allow the Pandavas to break through their defence. With the ringing of the Khan Shells.

[Podcast Host]

The two armies clashed again for the 18 in the Great war of Kurukshetra. The death of Karna boosted the confidence of the Pandavas many fold and they pounced upon the enemy with such ferocity that the Kauravas felt overwhelmed. Nakul killed Karna's two sons Chitra Sen and Satyasen. Sahadev killed Shalya's son Bhim, attacked Shalaya and killed his horses.

[Narrator]

Shalya struck back at Bhim by hurling.

[Podcast Host]

A huge spear at him piercing his armor. Bhim pulled out the spear and hurled it back at Shalaya. The spear hit Shalaya's charioteer and killed him.

[Narrator]

Shalaya and Bhim fought each other like men possessed till both were exhausted. Kripacharya came to Shalaya's rescue and took him away from Bhim. Yudhishthir called his brothers and said, you have demonstrated your prowess by killing the mightiest of Kaurava warriors. Now I'd request you to leave Shalaya to me today. Either I will kill him or he will slay me.

[Podcast Host]

Satyaki, Drishtadumna, Bhim and Arjun all of you protect me from any attacks from the sides and my back but do not interfere when I fight my uncle.

[Narrator]

With the Pandava brothers supporting and surrounding him along with Satyaki and Drishtadyumna, Yudhishthir attacked Shalaya.

[Podcast Host]

Krishna's encouragement on the previous night gave.

[Narrator]

Yudhishthir's confidence a big boost.

[Podcast Host]

He pounced upon Shalya with such aggressiveness that the Pandava soldiers around him were stunned. That the soft spoken, kind man who was regarded as the personification of Dharma himself could turn out to be such a valiant and fierce warrior was something they could never imagine.

[Narrator]

Yudhishthir's arrows killed Shalya's horses and his.

[Podcast Host]

Charioteer Aswathama came running to rescue him. Yudhishthir continued killing Shandia's warriors with his favorite weapon, the spear.

[Narrator]

Moments later, Shaildhya returned in a new chariot and in rapid succession killed Yudhishthir's.

[Podcast Host]

Horses and his charioteer. Bhim couldn't control himself. He hurled his mace at Shailhya and destroyed his chariot.

[Narrator]

Shaila jumped off the vehicle with a machete and a shield in his hand.

[Podcast Host]

And ran towards Yudhishthir. Bhim shot a sharp arrow at Shalya and cut the handle of his machete.

[Narrator]

Yudhishthir knew this was his moment to kill Shahlya.

[Podcast Host]

He stood on his horseless chariot and pulled out a ferocious arrow from his quiver and engaged it to his bow. He aimed the weapon at Shah and said, uncle Shalya, you abandoned the path of Dharma and joined the evil Kauravas. And for that sin my arrow will kill you now.

[Narrator]

Saying this, he released the weapon.

[Podcast Host]

The arrow zoomed at lightning speed and.

[Narrator]

Struck Shalya's chest, tearing it apart. Shalya's lifeless body crashed to the ground. Bereft of a commander in chief, the Gaurava army was in total disarray.

[Podcast Host]

They began to flee in hordes while the Pandavas went on a killing spree. Duryodhan tried to persuade them back. The war is not over yet. We have great warriors. Aswathama, Kripacharya, Krita, Varma. We can still still win the war. Come back.

[Narrator]

King Salwa from the lands of the northern mountains rode a huge elephant that belonged to Bhuyodhan and attacked the Pandava soldiers.

[Podcast Host]

The elephant trampled the soldiers while Salwa showered them with arrows.

[Narrator]

Mr. Tyumna tried to stop the elephant.

[Podcast Host]

By shooting spears and arrows at it.

[Narrator]

But the weapons hardly penetrated the beast's Thick skin. Salva drove the elephant towards Drishtadyumna to crush him. Drishta Dumna jumped off his chariot to.

[Podcast Host]

Save himself, but as soon as he made his escape, the elephant crushed the chariot along with his charioteer and four horses.

[Narrator]

He, Shikhandi and Satyaki tried to kill.

[Podcast Host]

The beast by shooting their fiercest weapons.

[Narrator]

At it, but the pounced off the animal, leaving it unscathed. Drishtadyumna picked up a huge mace, jumped.

[Podcast Host]

Up and struck a huge blow to the temple of the elephant.

[Narrator]

Instantly the elephant collapsed and crashed to the ground, dead.

[Podcast Host]

Salwa tried to run away, but Drishtadumna.

[Narrator]

Hurled a spear and beheaded him. The Pandavas kept ravaging the Kauravarami one by one.

[Podcast Host]

Their generals and warriors who stood up to fight the Pandavas died at the hands of Bhim, Arjun Nakul and Sahadev. Shakuni and his son Ulugh along with their followers tried to launch a bit of a resistance and fought valiantly against Sahadev.

[Narrator]

Sahadev hurled a spear at Uluk and decapitated him.

[Podcast Host]

Furious at the loss of his son, Shakuni shot a fierce weapon at Sahadev who destroyed the weapon in mid flight and hurled another spear at Shakuli.

[Narrator]

In retaliation, the spear pierced Shakuni's chest and killed him instantly. It was clear to Duryodhana that he had no hope against the Pandavas. His army had been totally decimated, his generals all killed. He was sure to be the next to face the wrath of the five brothers. He picked up his mace and quietly left the battlefield towards Lake Dwaipayan. Upon arriving at the lake, Duryodhan dove into the water and looked for a place to hide. He found a secret cove hidden behind a wall of water. Duryodhan slid into the COVID and lay down in the cool waters and thought about what to do next.

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[Narrator]

Ashotthama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma noticed Duryodhan leave. They were busy fighting the Pandavas and couldn't join him at first. As the sun descended towards the western horizon, Asvathama said to Kripacharya and Kritavarma, there is no point in fighting the Pandavas anymore. Let's find Duryodhana. He might need our help. The three warriors mounted their horses and galloped towards the direction where Duryodhana was last seen. As dusk fell on the grounds of Kurukshetra, it was clear that the war had finally come to an end. The soldiers, who were still alive, dragged themselves back to their tents and prepared to depart for their homes. But for Yudhishthir, as long as Duryodhan was alive, the war was far from over.

[Podcast Host]

He ordered his men to find him.

[Narrator]

But they failed to find him anywhere near the battlefield. Asvathama, Kripacharya and Kritavarma arrived near the banks of Lake Dwaipayan and looked around for Duryodhana.

[Podcast Host]

They knew that this was the best.

[Narrator]

Place for him to hide.

[Podcast Host]

Aswathama called out, o King Duryodhan, where are you? Come out of hiding and join us. Together we will fight Yudhishthir and his brothers and win back your kingdom. Or else we will die and depart for the heavens.

[Narrator]

Duryodhan answered from his secret cove. I am glad you are still alive.

[Podcast Host]

I appreciate your concern and your willingness.

[Narrator]

To fight for me, but I am tired and wounded. Let me rest.

[Podcast Host]

Maybe, maybe tomorrow I will regain my.

[Narrator]

Strength and join you to fight the Pandavas. As Duryodhana was speaking, a band of tribal hunters were passing by. When they heard Duryodhana, they ran to the Pandava camp and informed Yudhishthir about the hiding place. Yudhishthir was elated. He called his brothers and said, let's.

[Podcast Host]

Go to Lagdai Payan and finish the war.

[Narrator]

The Pandavas, along with Krishna, mounted their chariots and left for the lake. When Nasvathama heard the rumble of the Pandava chariots. He said, king Duryodhana, the Pandavas have found your hideout.

[Podcast Host]

We must leave now.

[Narrator]

With Duryodhan's permission, the three Kaurava warriors mounted their horses and galloped away. Yudhishthir arrived and looked around. He knew Duryodhana was hiding in the lake.

[Podcast Host]

He called out, duryodhana, come out of hiding and fight. You caused the destruction of your family and now you want to flee? That's not the right thing to do for a Kshatriya. Have you lost all your pride? Don't be afraid. Come out and fight. Defeat us and rule the world.

[Narrator]

Else die a glorious death and go to the heavens. Duryodhan answered, I am not hiding. I only want to rest a while. Don't you worry. When I am refreshed I will come.

[Podcast Host]

Out and fight you. However, if you're impatient, go ahead and rule my kingdom. With my family dead, I have lost all interest in the throne.

[Narrator]

Take it and let me live in peace in the forest.

[Podcast Host]

You enjoy the throne of Astinapur.

[Narrator]

Yudhishthir, however, was not willing to give up so easily. He stepped towards the lake and said.

[Podcast Host]

Who are you to give us the kingdom?

[Narrator]

I don't want to accept your charity.

[Podcast Host]

You remember when I had asked for five villages for us five brothers? You said that without a fight you wouldn't give us even a speck of.

[Narrator]

Land one could lift on a needle. Now let us fulfill your wish.

[Podcast Host]

Come out and fight. We'll defeat you and win the throne with our might. I can fight. But I. I don't have chariots, armors, helmets. Besides, you are five and.

[Narrator]

And I am alone. It will not be a fair fight.

[Podcast Host]

You talk about a fair fight. Where was your sense of fairness when seven of you warriors surrounded the young Abhimanyu and killed him?

[Narrator]

This is what I offer you.

[Podcast Host]

We will give you whatever you need to fight us.

[Narrator]

You may pick any weapon of your.

[Podcast Host]

Choice and choose to fight any one.

[Narrator]

Of us five brothers. If you kill the person whom you.

[Podcast Host]

Choose to fight, the kingdom is yours. Do you agree?

[Narrator]

I. I agree.

[Podcast Host]

I will pick the mace as my weapon.

[Narrator]

You can assign anybody to fight me.

[Podcast Host]

Nobody can defeat me with my favorite weapon.

[Narrator]

Krishna was furious at Yudhishthir.

[Podcast Host]

How could you make such a foolish proposal? Select any of your brothers to fight.

[Narrator]

What if he selects you or Nakul or Sahadev? Duryodhan is not only strong but he.

[Podcast Host]

Is also the most skilled mace warrior in the world. Nobody can Defeat him in a fair mace fight.

[Narrator]

Bhim may be stronger than him, but as far as skill is concerned, Duryodhan is far superior. Bhim stepped forward and said, brother Yudhishthir.

[Podcast Host]

Allow me to fight Duryodhana. I have promised to kill him and I want to honour it.

[Narrator]

Krishna, don't you worry.

[Podcast Host]

I know how to defeat Duryodhana.

[Narrator]

I will kill him for sure. Duryodhan stepped out of the lake with his huge mace in hand. Yudhishthir gestured towards his chariot and said, put on your armor and helmet and prepare to fight.

[Podcast Host]

Bhim Sen will fight you on our behalf.

[Narrator]

Duryodhan strapped on a heavy armor and put on a helmet to protect his head.

[Podcast Host]

Then he walked towards Bhim and said.

[Narrator]

Today I will fulfil your wish to fight me. You will die at my hands.

[Podcast Host]

Now pick up your mace and fight me.

[Narrator]

Bhim flared his nostrils and roared at.

[Podcast Host]

The top of his voice, prepare to die, you evil man. Today my mace won't rest until it tastes your blood. He thumped the ground with his feet and the earth trembled as if an.

[Narrator]

Earthquake had struck the area. At that moment, Krishna's brother Balaram arrived with a huge plough on his shoulder. He had been visiting several pilgrimages and when he heard the news that his student Duryodhana was engaged in a mace fight with Bhim, he couldn't leave. Yudhishthir and Krishna welcomed him and he sat down to watch the fight. Bheem and Duryodhan faced each other like two huge giants.

[Podcast Host]

Swinging their maces and thumping their chests, they hurled vicious insults at each other. They moved in circles to fight the right moment to strike. Suddenly, Bhim swung his mace at Duryodhan's head.

[Narrator]

Duryodhan ducked and avoided the blow. In the next instant he struck Bhim.

[Podcast Host]

On his chest and left him breathless.

[Narrator]

Bhim took a couple of minutes to recover and then attacked Duryodhan with a.

[Podcast Host]

Huge blow on his left side.

[Narrator]

Duryodhan reeled to absorb the impact and then bounced back.

[Podcast Host]

The fight continued with such savagery that the gods in the heavens assembled to watch the spectacle. The maces of the giants struck each other with loud bangs and sparks flew into the sky.

[Narrator]

Soon Duryodhan and Bheem were covered in blood, their armor shattered, helmets broken. Arjun turned to Krishna and asked, who do you think is the better warrior?

[Podcast Host]

Who do you think will win this fight?

[Narrator]

Krishna looked concerned. Bheem is stronger than Duryodhan, but the latter is more skilled with the mace to beat him. Bhim cannot stick to the rules. He paused and looked at Arjuna meaningfully. During the game of dice when Duryodhan made the obscene gesture at Draupadi by slapping his thighs Bhim had promised to kill him by breaking his thighs. Maybe Bhim has forgotten his promise and needs to be reminded. Arjun understood. He moved to a position where he could have direct eye contact with Bheem. Arjun then suggestively battered his thighs with his right palm and Bhim knew what to do. He crouched and ran towards Duryodhan to strike him.

[Podcast Host]

Duryodhan jumped up into the sky to let Bheem pass under him. But the moment Bhim crossed Duryodhan he turned back and swung his mace to strike a terrible blow to Duryodhan's thighs.

[Narrator]

Midair, Duryodhan cried out in pain and.

[Podcast Host]

Crashed to the ground with both his.

[Narrator]

Thigh bones shattered to smithereens Bheem began squashing Duryodhan's head under his feet and.

[Podcast Host]

Said, you evil man. Do you remember how you and your brother Dushan insulted Draupadi? I kept my promise by drinking Dusasan's blood and now I honour the second one by breaking your thighs.

[Narrator]

Angry, Bhim then pressed Duryodhan's head harder to crush it.

[Podcast Host]

Yudhishthir ran up to him and said, stop him. You have crushed Duryodhan's thighs and kept his promise. You don't have to humiliate him further.

[Narrator]

Leave him alone and let him suffer for his sins. Balaram leapt out of his seat with.

[Podcast Host]

His hands flung out. Unfair. This is unfair. Bhim hit my pupil Duryodhan below his navel. This is against the rules. I will punish him.

[Narrator]

Balaram lifted his huge plough over his.

[Podcast Host]

Head and rushed to strike Bhim.

[Narrator]

Krishna wrapped his arms around Balaram and said, calm down, brother, calm down. Bheem did what he did only to keep his promise. Duryodhana may be your people but he is the enemy of our allies, the Pandavas.

[Podcast Host]

He committed heinous crimes and now has.

[Narrator]

To suffer for his sins. Balaram was not happy with Krishna's logic.

[Podcast Host]

Whatever you may say, I still can't support what Bhim did to Duryodhana. Bhim will have to suffer for this.

[Narrator]

Saying this, Balaram stepped into his chariot and left. Duryodhan tried to lift his torso with his hands and cried out in pain. Ah. Krishna. Krishna. You are responsible for my misfortune.

[Podcast Host]

Ah. It was you who reminded Bhim of his promise.

[Narrator]

Don't think I didn't notice you talking to Arjun and Arjuna gesturing to Bheem.

[Podcast Host]

You have been playing dirty all along. It was you who used Shikhandi to kill Bhishma. It was you who spread the lie.

[Narrator]

About Aswathama's death to kill drawn. It was you who compelled Arjuna to kill an unarmed Karna. If if you had played fair, the Pandavas could have never defeated us. Duryodhan couldn't stay up any longer. He fainted and collapsed to the ground. Duryodhan's criticism made the Pandavas uncomfortable. Unable to counter his arguments, they stood with their heads hung in shame. Krishna smiled and said, don't pay attention to Duryodhana's whining. It isn't unusual to leverage unconventional strategies to win a battle.

[Podcast Host]

For ages, people and gods have resorted to deception and other means to defeat.

[Narrator]

A more powerful enemy. You would have never been able to kill Bhishma, not drown in a fair and straight battle. That's why I suggested a little trickery to expose their vulnerability and they fell for it. At the end of the day, we succeeded and they failed.

[Podcast Host]

We won and they lost. Now enjoy your victory and prepare for the days ahead.

[Narrator]

The Pandavas mounted their chariots and headed back to their camp, leaving behind an unconscious Duryodhana by the banks of Lake Taipayan to die a gruesome death.

[Sudipta Bhomik]

The Snow Stories of Mahabharata is written, directed and told by Sudipta Bhomik Audio Engineering Original music and sound design by Avi Zeev Find us [e-mail] MahaBharataPodcast Join the group for updates and news. Subscribe to the podcast using itunes or any other podcast catcher on Twitter. We are Mahabharataudio.

[Narrator]

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[Narrator]

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[Podcast Host]

It's perfect.

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[Sudipta Bhomik]

And now for some late breaking news. The podcast is also available as a book, Dwapar Katha the Stories of Mahabharata, published by HarperCollins India.