The Stories of Mahabharata – Episode 74: The Mourning Summary

Introduction

In Episode 74 of The Stories of Mahabharata, titled "The Mourning," host Sudipta Bhawmik delves into the profound aftermath of the Kurukshetra war. This episode captures the intense emotions, political transitions, and the heavy burden of leadership that follows the devastating conflict. Through vivid narration and insightful dialogues, listeners are transported into the heart of Hastinapur’s somber transition from war to peace.

Recap of Previous Episode

The episode begins with a brief recap of the preceding events, highlighting Aswathhama's vengeful raid on the Pandava camp, which resulted in the tragic deaths of Drishtadumna and the five sons of Draupadi. This act plunged King Dhritarashtra into deep despair, leading to his collapse upon hearing of his beloved son Duryodhana's death.

Dhritarashtra's Grief and Vidur’s Counsel [02:30]

King Dhritarashtra's overwhelming grief is poignantly portrayed as he laments, “I lost all my sons, my friends, My family. I have nobody left who can help me. I lie here powerless like an old bird with broken wings. I have no use for my life anymore” ([03:15]). His attendant, Vidur, arrives to console him, urging, “Death is the final destiny for all mortal beings. You may cry as much as you want but your sons are not going to come back so stop crying and get back to the business at hand” ([04:10]). Vidur emphasizes the importance of returning to governance despite personal loss, reminding Dhritarashtra of his duties and responsibilities.

Journey to Kurukshetra and Unexpected Encounters [05:45]

The following morning, Dhritarashtra, accompanied by Gandhari, Kunti, and other Kuru widows, embarks on the journey to Kurukshetra. En route, they encounter Kripacharya and Kritavarma, who inform them of further tragic losses, including the deaths of Trishatha, Dumna, and the five sons of Draupadi. Upon reaching the Kaurava camp, an emotional reunion unfolds when Yudhishthir and his brothers, along with Draupadi and Krishna, visit Dhritarashtra. In a heartrending moment, Dhritarashtra mistakes an iron statue of Bhim for his son, enraged by his grief. As the old king embraces the statue, believing he is crushing Bhim, Sudipta narrates:

“Dhritarashtra put his arms around the statue in a tight embrace... I have killed my beloved Bhim” ([06:45]).

Krishna’s Intervention and Reconciliation [09:20]

Krishna swiftly clarifies the misunderstanding, assuring Dhritarashtra, “You haven't killed Bhim. You have only destroyed his iron statue. Grief had distracted you from the path of Dharma” ([10:05]). This revelation leads to a poignant moment of reconciliation where Dhritarashtra seeks forgiveness:

“Bhim, I am sorry for my behavior. Please come to me. I would like to touch you” ([12:30]).

Dhritarashtra embraces Bhim, symbolizing the restoration of familial bonds amidst the ruins of war.

Gandhari’s Fury and Pandava Confrontation [14:50]

The narrative intensifies as Gandhari arrives, battling her own fury. Initially advised by the sage Vyasa to restrain her anger, Gandhari's emotions soon overpower her. She confronts the Pandavas, particularly Yudhishthir, accusing them of orchestrating the war and causing immense suffering:

“Bhim struck Duryodhana below the navel and that too in the presence of Krishna. How is that right? By any law?” ([17:10]).

Bhim defends his actions, highlighting the injustices inflicted upon them, including the unfair game of dice and Draupadi's humiliation. The confrontation reaches a climax when Gandhari, unable to contain her rage, inadvertently harms Yudhishthir:

“Her eyes fell upon Yudhishthir's fingertips and instantly his nails turned black” ([20:00]).

Realizing her mistake, Gandhari embraces all the Pandavas, her anger giving way to sorrow.

Battlefield Aftermath and Funeral Rites [21:30]

The episode shifts focus to the gruesome aftermath of the war as Gandhari describes the battlefield's devastation, emphasizing the profound loss and grief:

“I see Karna's wife lying unconscious next to her husband's half-eaten body... So much pain, so much destruction” ([23:15]).

The Pandavas proceed with the funeral rites, setting up thousands of pyres and performing sacred rituals. A significant revelation occurs when Kunti announces Karna’s true lineage, revealing him as Yudhishthir’s elder brother:

“The man whom we dreaded the most, our most powerful enemy, was our brother... If we had Karna with us, this war would never have happened” ([23:50]).

This disclosure adds another layer of tragedy, deepening Yudhishthir’s grief and sense of loss.

Ascension to the Throne and Yudhishthir’s Struggle [25:05]

Following the war, preparations for Yudhishthir’s coronation commence. The grandeur of his ascension is depicted as he is crowned King of Hastinapur with the blessings of Krishna and the populace’s support. However, despite his triumph, Yudhishthir grapples with immense guilt and sorrow over the war’s consequences:

“I feel lost and I find no joy in ruling the kingdom” ([26:40]).

Seeking guidance, Yudhishthir consults his revered grandfather, Bhishma, who imparts wisdom on leadership and duty, helping Yudhishthir navigate his internal turmoil:

“Let go of your sorrow and focus on making your people happy and prosperous” ([28:10]).

Bhishma’s Passing and Final Rites [29:55]

As seasons change, Bhishma chooses to depart from his mortal body, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom and valor. The episode concludes with the Pandavas performing the last rites for Bhishma, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and duty:

“With a heavy heart, Yudhishthir and his brothers performed the last rites of their dear grandfather and left Kurukshetra” ([32:30]).

Conclusion

Episode 74, "The Mourning," masterfully captures the essence of loss, duty, and reconciliation in the aftermath of the Mahabharata war. Sudipta Bhawmik’s poignant narration, enriched with significant dialogues and emotional depths, offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the characters' struggles and the profound impact of war on their lives. The episode serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of dharma (righteousness) and the enduring quest for peace and healing.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dhritarashtra’s Despair: “I lost all my sons, my friends. My family. I have nobody left who can help me... I have no use for my life anymore” ([03:15]).

• Vidur’s Counsel: “Death is the final destiny for all mortal beings. You may cry as much as you want but your sons are not going to come back so stop crying and get back to the business at hand” ([04:10]).

• Dhritarashtra’s Realization: “Oh. Oh. What have I done? I have killed my beloved Bhim” ([07:30]).

• Krishna’s Assurance: “You haven't killed Bhim. You have only destroyed his iron statue. Grief had distracted you from the path of Dharma” ([10:05]).

• Gandhari’s Accusation: “Bhim struck Duryodhana below the navel and that too in the presence of Krishna. How is that right? By any law?” ([17:10]).

• Yudhishthir’s Plea: “Mother, here I am. The killer of your sons. Punish me” ([22:25]).

• Yudhishthir’s Confession: “I feel lost and I find no joy in ruling the kingdom” ([26:40]).

• Bhishma’s Wisdom: “Let go of your sorrow and focus on making your people happy and prosperous” ([28:10]).

Final Thoughts

Episode 74 of The Stories of Mahabharata intricately weaves the themes of grief, duty, and redemption, providing listeners with a deep and reflective exploration of the epic’s final chapters. Sudipta Bhawmik’s storytelling prowess ensures that even those unfamiliar with the Mahabharata can grasp the emotional and philosophical depths of the characters’ journeys.