Section CXC - Bhishma's defeat: Princess of Kasi's vow for vengeance
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXC including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
A princess from the land of Kasi, expelled and deprived of her rightful status by Bhishma, decides to seek revenge by becoming a man and defeating him in battle. She undergoes severe ascetic austerities, firm in her resolve to slay Bhishma for the suffering he has caused her. Appearing before her, Lord Shiva promises her victory in battle and the transformation into a man after her victory. With the assurance of the god of gods, she builds a funeral pyre and immolates herself with a heart filled with wrath and the determination to fulfill her revenge against Bhishma. The princess sacrifices her life for her cause, believing that in her next birth she will fulfill her mission of defeating Bhishma and obtaining manhood.
Full English translation:
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Section CXC, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CXC:
Can a woman become a man through divine intervention?
Yes, the princess of Kasi, with Lord Shiva's blessing, transformed into a man.
Why did the princess of Kasi enter the blazing fire?
She sought revenge against Bhishma for preventing her from marrying.
Daily life: Bhishma's defeat: Princess of Kasi's vow for vengeance:
The story narrates the determination of a princess wronged, highlighting the lengths one can go to seek justice. From this, we learn the importance of standing up for ourselves and pursuing what we believe is right, even in the face of adversity. It also reflects on the role of resilience, as the princess, despite being dismissed and deprived, remained steadfast in her resolve.
In daily life, this can be seen as a call to not passively accept unfair treatment or circumstances but instead, to actively work towards rectifying them. It teaches us that seeking help from others, much like the princess sought help from the divine, can be a pivotal step in overcoming challenges. The story underlines the power of conviction and the idea that with enough determination, one can change their destiny despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
However, it's critical to approach conflicts with wisdom and seek resolutions that bring peace rather than perpetuate cycles of vengeance. Through dedication and the rightful pursuit of our goals, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable existence, transforming our grievances into catalysts for change.