Section CXCVI - Bhishma, Drona, Kripa and Karna plan to defeat Pandavas
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXCVI 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:
In this passage from the Mahabharata, the Kurus, led by Duryodhana, seek advice from their elders on how quickly they can defeat the Pandava army in battle. Bhishma, known for his prowess, explains that he can annihilate the Pandava army gradually by taking a set number of warriors each day or faster by using powerful weapons. Drona, Kripa, and Asvatthaman each claim they can defeat the enemy army in different timeframes, with Karna boasting he can do it in just five days.
The Kurus express their confidence in their warriors and seek assurances from their elders on their ability to win the battle. Bhishma, as the eldest and most experienced warrior among them, sets the example by outlining his strategy for defeating the Pandava army. Drona, Kripa, Asvatthaman, and Karna, all skilled warriors in their own right, offer their estimates on how quickly they can achieve victory.
Bhishma's response reflects his wisdom and experience in battle, as he outlines a systematic approach to defeating the enemy. The other warriors, including Drona, Kripa, Asvatthaman, and Karna, also demonstrate their confidence in their abilities to win the war. Despite their differing opinions on timing, they all share a commitment to fighting fiercely for their cause.
As the discussion unfolds, it becomes clear that the Kurus are preparing for a fierce battle against the Pandavas. The warriors' varying estimates on how quickly they can defeat the enemy army indicate their determination and belief in their own skills. The stage is set for a climactic showdown between the two sides, with each warrior eager to prove their worth in the upcoming conflict.
Full English translation:
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Section CXCVI, 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 CXCVI:
Can Bhishma really annihilate the Pandava army in a month?
Bhishma claims he can defeat the army by taking 10,000 warriors daily.
Who among the warriors is most confident in defeating the Pandava army?
Daily life: Bhishma, Drona, Kripa and Karna plan to defeat Pandavas:
This story from the Mahabharata teaches us about understanding our capabilities and the importance of setting realistic goals based on our strengths and weaknesses. Bhishma, Drona, Kripa, Aswatthama, and Karna each estimate how long it will take them to win a battle, showcasing a range of self-awareness and boasting. Bhishma and Drona, both wise and experienced, offer modest estimates reflecting their understanding of their limitations and the vastness of the challenge ahead. In contrast, Karna's boastful claim highlights the pitfalls of overconfidence.
From this, we learn the value of self-assessment and honesty in our abilities when facing tasks. It stresses the necessity of adapting our strategies based on who and what we are up against, whether in professional settings, personal goals, or learning new skills. Furthermore, it warns against letting pride cloud our judgment, as overestimating our abilities can lead to underperformance and failure. Setting achievable targets, acknowledging the need for effort and time, and respecting challenges and competitors, are keys to success.