Mahabharat on Star Plus
The Mahabharata, one of the longest epic poems in the world, is filled with numerous iconic moments that are central to its narrative. Here are some of the most significant and iconic moments from the Mahabharata:
The Game of Dice (Dyutakrida):
One of the pivotal moments in the Mahabharata is the infamous game of dice where Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, loses his kingdom, himself, and his brothers in a game of dice to the Kauravas. This event ultimately leads to their exile.
Draupadi’s Humiliation (Cheer-Haran):
After the Pandavas lose the game of dice, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, is dragged into the court by Dushasana and humiliated. This ignites a chain of events that leads to the Kurukshetra War.
Bhagavad Gita – The Song of the Lord:
The Bhagavad Gita, a philosophical and spiritual discourse between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, is a timeless moment in the Mahabharata. It takes place on the battlefield just before the Kurukshetra War begins, where Krishna imparts profound wisdom and guidance to Arjuna.
Arjuna’s Oath and Chariot Wheel Incident:
Before the war, Arjuna took an oath to kill Jayadratha before sunset on the 14th day. During the battle, as the sun was about to set, Arjuna fulfilled his oath by beheading Jayadratha with a celestial arrow, showcasing his skill and determination.
Abhimanyu’s Heroic Stand (Chakravyuha):
Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna, enters the intricate military formation called the Chakravyuha during the Kurukshetra War. Despite knowing how to enter it, he is unable to exit, fighting valiantly until he is unfairly killed by multiple warriors.
Bhishma’s Vow and Fall:
Bhishma, the granduncle of both Pandavas and Kauravas, takes a vow of lifelong celibacy and a pledge to serve the throne of Hastinapura. During the war, he fights on the Kaurava side but falls due to a strategic move by Arjuna and Shikhandi.
Karna’s Charity and Death:
Karna, the virtuous but tragic hero, is known for his charitable nature. His giving away of his armor and earrings to Indra, disguised as a Brahmin, significantly impacts his destiny. Karna’s death, at the hands of Arjuna with the help of Lord Krishna, is a poignant moment.
Drona’s Death:
Dronacharya, the teacher of both Pandavas and Kauravas, is killed in a deceitful manner during the war. Yudhishthira lies to Drona about Ashwatthama’s death, causing Drona to lose his will to fight, and he is then killed by Dhrishtadyumna.
The Death of the Upapandavas:
The Upapandavas, the sons of Draupadi and the Pandavas born through a sacrificial yajna, are brutally killed by Ashwatthama in a night massacre during the final stages of the war.
Yudhishthira’s Final Test and Ascent to Heaven:
After the war, Yudhishthira is tested by Lord Yama, the god of death, where he is required to answer a series of questions. Yudhishthira’s truthful answers lead to the ascent of the Pandavas and Draupadi to heaven.
These moments collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of the Mahabharata, providing moral and philosophical insights, and showcasing the complexity of human nature and destiny.