Podcast Summary: The Stories of Mahabharata Episode 73: Aswathama's Revenge Host: Sudipta Bhomik Release Date: June 4, 2024

Introduction and Recap

In Episode 73 of The Stories of Mahabharata, Sudipta Bhomik delves deep into one of the most intense and poignant moments of the epic—the revenge of Aswathama following the devastating war of Kurukshetra. Building upon the events of the previous episode, listeners are reminded of the fierce confrontations that led to the weakening of both the Pandavas and the Kauravas.

Recap Highlights:

• Yudhishthir's Victory: The episode begins by recalling Yudhishthir's grim triumph, having defeated Shalya and witnessed Bhima grievously injure Duryodhana on the banks of Lake Dwai Payan.
• Duryodhana's Last Moments: As the Pandavas depart, Aswathama, alongside Kripacharya and Kritavarma, approaches the wounded Duryodhana. In a rare moment of empathy, Aswathama gently cleans Duryodhana, only to be overcome with grief and rage as Duryodhana regains consciousness.

Aswathama's Vow for Revenge

The heart of the episode centers around Aswathama's unyielding determination to avenge his fallen king and brothers. Despite witnessing the devastation and the fall of his allies, Aswathama's commitment to his duty as a Kaurava warrior drives him towards a path of vengeance.

Key Events:

• Duryodhana's Plea: Aswathama pleads for guidance after witnessing Duryodhana's agony. [03:39] Duryodhana implores, "Tell me, how can I be of any service to you?"

• Appointment as Commander: In a symbolic gesture, Duryodhana requests the consecration of Aswathama as the next commander-in-chief. [04:28] "I want to consecrate the appointment of Aswathama as the next commander in chief of the Kaurava army," declares Duryodhana.

• Planning the Assault: Under the cover of night, the trio retreats to a dense forest to strategize. Asvathama is unable to sleep, haunted by thoughts of defeating the Pandavas and the Panchals.

The Night Raid on the Pandava Camp

Driven by his vow, Aswathama devises a ruthless plan to infiltrate the Pandava camp and eliminate his enemies under the veil of darkness.

Notable Moments:

• Inspiration from Nature: Observing a black owl preying on crows ignites Aswathama's strategy. [06:17] "This was the way to destroy his enemy," narrates Bhomik, highlighting the symbolism of the owl's merciless hunt.

• Confrontation with Kripacharya and Kritavarma: Aswathama shares his plans, only to face opposition from his comrades, who deem the act cowardly. [07:13] Kripacharya criticizes, "This is an outrageous plan. I don't know how could you even think of such a cowardly act."

• Determined to Act: Ignoring their concerns, Aswathama resolves, "I will do whatever is necessary and if I need to, I will suffer," asserting his unwavering resolve. [08:11]

The Massacre at the Pandava Camp

As night deepens, Aswathama executes his plan with brutal efficiency, leaving a trail of devastation in the Pandava camp.

Key Actions:

• Eliminating the Guard: [11:03] "Killed the half asleep guard," Aswathama swiftly neutralizes the lone sentinel, granting him unrestricted access to the camp.

• Targeting Key Figures: His first target is Drishtadumna, the Panchal prince, whom he kills brutally. [12:06] "Got crushed killing him instantly," Bhomik describes the merciless act.

• Beyond Pandavas: The massacre extends beyond the warriors to include the sons of Draupadi, showcasing Aswathama's indiscriminate rage. [12:31] "But that didn't stop him," emphasizing the depth of his wrath.

• Destruction of Livestock: Aswathama doesn't spare even the horses and elephants, ensuring the Pandavas are left with no resources. [12:43]

Aftermath and Consequences

The aftermath of Aswathama's revenge leaves the Pandava camp in shambles, grappling with immense loss and sorrow.

Emotional Fallout:

• Yudhishthir's Despair: Witnessing the massacre, Yudhishthir is overwhelmed with grief. [15:04] He laments, "We won the war, yet. Yet we lost."

• Draupadi's Grief: Draupadi's anguish is palpable as she mourns her slain sons. [17:21] "What price for victory, my king," she mournfully states, highlighting the heavy cost of war.

The Quest to Defeat Aswathama

Determined to restore honor and avenge his family, the Pandavas embark on a mission to eliminate Aswathama.

Strategic Moves:

• Bhim's Pursuit: [18:22] "Bhim immediately mounted his chariot and left to find Aswathama with Nakul as his charioteer," signaling the beginning of a relentless hunt.

• The Encounter by the Ganges: Aswathama confronts Bhim and Arjun by the riverbank. When threatened, he unleashes the deadly Brahmasir weapon, intended to annihilate the Pandavas.

Climactic Battle:

• Divine Intervention: The Brahmasir weapon's trajectory is halted by Vyasa's appearance, preventing total destruction. [21:19] Vyasa reprimands, "why did you fire the Brahmashir? Didn't you know it is a crime to fire it against humans?"

• Aswathama's Defiance: Refusing to retract the weapon, Aswathama threatens dire consequences. [22:43] "I will retarget it at the wombs of the Pandava women and... kill their unborn children."

Divine Resolution and Curse

The episode reaches its emotional zenith as gods and heroes intervene to prevent further catastrophe.

Resolution:

• Vyasa's Ultimatum: Aswathama is forced to comply with Vyasa's command to retract the weapon. [21:53] "Hand over the gemstone on your forehead to Bhim and they will let you leave," offers Vyasa a chance for redemption.

• Aswathama's Curse: In a final act of defiance, Aswathama accepts Krishna's curse, condemning himself to "live for 3,000 years but your life will be one of endless pain and suffering." [23:16]

Symbolic Gesture:

• The Gemstone: Bhim receives the gemstone from Aswathama, which Draupadi insists Yudhishthir wear as a reminder of the Pandavas' unyielding quest for justice. [24:33]

Conclusion

Episode 73 poignantly captures the themes of vengeance, honor, and the heavy toll of war. Aswathama's relentless pursuit of revenge results in catastrophic losses, yet it also propels the Pandavas towards a path of righteousness and resilience. The episode underscores the complexities of dharma and the enduring consequences of one's actions in the epic narrative of the Mahabharata.

Notable Quotes:

• Aswathama to Duryodhana: "Avenge me if you can. That's all I ask of you. If you allow me tonight, I will kill the Pandavas and the Panchals. That is a promise." [04:10]

• Draupadi to Yudhishthir: "What price for victory, my king." [17:21]

• Krishna to Yudhishthir: "You are a coward, Ashwathama. You have committed several sins and now..." [22:43]

Additional Information

For those interested in exploring the rich narratives of the Mahabharata further, Sudipta Bhomik's The Stories of Mahabharata is also available in book form, published by HarperCollins India.

Connect with the Podcast:

• Facebook: MahaBharataPodcast
• Twitter: @Mahabharataudio
• Subscribe: Available on iTunes and other podcast platforms.