Kauravas conquered: Kurukshetra War from "summary" of The Complete Life of Krishna by Vanamali
The Kurukshetra War was a major conflict in the ancient Indian epic of Mahabharata, fought between the Kauravas and the Pandavas. The war lasted for eighteen days and resulted in a decisive victory for the Pandavas, ending the rivalry between the two clans.- The Kaurava dynasty, heirs to the throne of Hastinapur, were responsible for initiating the Kurukshetra War which is recorded in Sanskrit epic literature.
- One of the greatest ironies of the Kurukshetra war was that it can be seen as a conflict between two sides of the same family.
- The war between the Pandavas and Kauravas lasted for 18 days, with the Pandavas emerging victorious and reclaiming their kingdom.
- This event is believed to have taken place on an area located near the present day district of Haryana known as Kurukshetra.
- The turning point of the war came when Arjuna was able to break through the mighty army of Kaurava's assembled at the eighteenth day of war.
- On the surface, the war portrayed traditionally has been seen as dharma (righteousness. vs. adharma (unrighteousness..
- During this battle highlighting moments included Bhishma's passion and conviction losing to Arjuna's archery skill, and Bhima slaying of Duryodhana.
- A major training session on the eve of the battle was provided by Krishna to Arjuna, along with his discourse on morality and critical insights into life.
- With a total death count of nearly 3 million men, the great war serves as a reminder of the destructive capacity of power hungry individuals and dynasties alike.
- Despite its tragic conclusion, the characters involved provide valuable lessons we can learn about loyalty, faithfulness, duty, and genuine friendship.
