/ Dharmashastra / Mahabharata

Mahabharata

Amvopakkyana (Ambopakhyana) Parva

Duryodhana enquires of Bhishma's refusal to strike Shikhandin. The story of Amba. Dialogue between Amba and Shaikhavati. Amba's meeting with royal sage Hotravahana. Dialogue between Rama and Amba. Rama and Bhishma in the field of Kurukshetra. Fight between Rama and Bhishma. The combat between Bhishma and Rama. The fight between Rama and Bhishma. Story of the fight between Rama and Bhishma. Rama's fight with Bhishma. Amba ascends the funeral pyre. Origin of Shikhandin. Story of Shikhandin's birth, Arival of messenger of Hiranyavarman. Story of Shikhandin's birth. Story of Shikhandini, she meets a Yaksha named Sthulakarna. The exchanges of sexes and Shikhandin's return to his city. Description of the streinght of Pandavas. Word of Yudhishthira. Marching out of the armies. Marching of soldiers.

Duryodhana said:
For what reason, O chief among the Bharatas, will you not slay Shikhandin even though you see him ready to strike you in battle.

You said before, O you of long arms : I shall slay the Panchalas with the Somakas. O son of Ganga, tell me how is this, O grand father.

Bhishma said:
Listen, O Duryodhana, to that story along with these rulers of the universe, namely the reason for which I shall not slay Shikhandin even though I see him in battle.

O great king, my father the virtuous- souled Shantanu, well known in this world, went the way of the world in due time, O best among the Bharatas.

Then did I, O chief among the Bharatas, observing my vows, install my brother Chitrangada on the throne.

He too being dead, following the wishes of Satyavati I duly appointed Vichitravirya in the kingship.

Installed by me, O chief among kings, my younger brother the virtuous souled Vichitravirya looked up to me in everything.

I, too being desirous of getting his wives, set my heart on procuring suitable girls from good families.

At the time, I heard, O you of long arms, that these were three girls, the daughters of the king of the Kashis going to elect bridegrooms, all of whom were unrivaled in beauty.

They were Amba, Ambika, and Ambalika and all the rulers of the earth were invited, O foremost of the Bharatas. Amba was the elder among them, Ambika the second,

And Ambalika, O chief among kings, was the youngest princess. Then did I on a single chariot, go to the capital of the king of the Kashis,

And saw, O you of long arms, the three girls with their persons ornamented and the kings of the earth who were invited, O lord of the world.

Then did I, challenging all those rulers of the earth to fight, carried by force, the girls to my chariot, O best of the Bharatas.

Knowing that prowess constituted their dower, I took them over to my chariot and said to all those rulers of the earth who were assembled there.

Bhishma, the son of Shantanu, again and again takes these girls away by force; try, O rulers of the earth, with all your might to liberate them. By force do I take them away, O best among men, in your very sight,

Then did those lords of the earth rise up with weapons open and wrathfully they urged their drivers, saying, "Make ready the cars, make ready the cars."

Then did they rise up with weapons ready, car-warriors on chariots resembling herds of elephant-warriors on elephants and others ruler of the earth on plump horses.

Then did all those rulers of the earth, O lord of the universe, surround me on an all sides with a large troupe of chariots.

Then, with a shower of arrows I arrested their rush and vanquished all those rulers of the earth like of the gods vanquishing the Danavas.

By blazing arrows did I laughingly fell down their diverse banners ornamented with gold, O best among the Bharatas.

By one arrow did I lay each to the ground with their horses, elephants, and drivers in battle.

Seeing that lightness of hand on my part, they broke up and turned back and vanquishing those kings I came to the city called after the elephant.

Then did make over, O Bharata, those girls to my brother, and submitted that deed, O you of long arms, to Satyavati for information.

Bhishma said:
Approaching then, O chief among the Bharatas, my mother, the mother of heroes, who was the daughter of the Dasha race and saluting her I said these words.

These daughters, of the king of the Kashis having prowess for their dower, have been taken away by me after vanquishing the ruler of the earth.

Then smelling my head, with eyes full of tears Satyavati cheerfully said to me. "By luck you have conquered them, my son."

The wedding day fixed by permission of Satyavati being near at hand the eldest of the girls of the king of Kashis said these words with modesty.

O Bhishma, you are conversant with virtue and all sciences and it is proper that you should do the right thing after hearing me.

By me was the king of the Shalvas chosen as my bridegroom in my mind and by him before was I selected (as his future wife) in private, unknown to my father.

How, O king, acting against the dictates of virtue will you make me, who am desirous of being united with another, reside in your household, O Bhishma, especially born as you are in the Kaurava race.

Setting, in your mind, something suitable to this turn of affairs, O best among the Bharatas, it is proper that you should do what you can for me, O you of long arms.

It is evident, lord of the universe, that the king of the Shalvas is expecting me; it is proper for you therefore to permit me to go, O foremost among the Kurus.

Act towards me with kindness, O you of long arms, O foremost among the supporters of virtue. It has been heard by us that you are a hero of truthful vows in this world.

Bhishma said:
Then did I, submitted the matter before our advisers, priests and spiritual guides,

Grant that eldest among the girls, Amba to go away, O ruler of men; and the girl too, obtaining the permission, went to the capital of the king of the Shalvas.

She was escorted by old twice born men and followed by maid servants; and after traveling the whole distance she reached the presence of that king.

She, going to the king of the “Shalvas, said these words :- “I have come, O you of long arms, expecting to be united with you, O you of great intelligence."

The king of the Shalvas, however said to him with a laughter, O lord of the universe, “O you of good complexion, I do not desire to take you for my wife for you had before been taken by another.

Go therefore, gentle lady, again to Bhishma. I dot desire to have you who had been taken away by Bhishma by force.

At that time were you cheerfully led away by Bhishma who vanquished all the kings.

O you of fair complexion, I do not desire as my wife, yourself who had been accepted by another, for how can a king like us accept a girl who has before been ravished by another-

A king, who is familiar with every science and who lays down laws for others. Go wherever you please, gentle lady, and do not waste your time."

Amba, being struck with the darts of love, said to that king :- "Do not speak thus, O ruler of the earth, it can not be so by any means.

Never was I cheerfully led away by Bhishma, O chastiser of enemies. Weeping, I was led away by force after he had vanquished the lords of the earth.

Accept me, O lord of the Shalvas, accept a girl who is innocent. No religion approves of the direction of the devoted.

I have come here without any loss of time after taking leave of the son of Ganga, who never turns back from the field of battle and with his permission.

That Bhishma of long arms does not want me, O lord of the universe and this exertion of Bhishma is for the sake of his brother, I have heard.

Those two sisters of mine, Ambika, and Ambalika, who had been led away, have been made over by the son of Ganga to his younger brother Vichitravirya.

I do not, O lord of the Shalvas, desire any husband save yourself, O foremost among men, I swear by my heart.

O chief among kings, I do not come to you as one who has before been ravished by another. I am speaking the truth, O lord of the Shalvas, I swear by my soul and by truth.

Accept me, O you of big eyes, who ama girl and have come of my own will desirous of your favours, and without having been ravished by another, O chief among kings."

Shalva however abandoned that daughter of the ruler of the Kashis who spoke thus, O chief among the Bharatas, like a serpent casting off its slough.

The king of the Shalvas did not look graciously on that girl who spoke in this and several other strains.

Then did that eldest daughter of the ruler of the Kashis struck with grief say with eyes bathed in tears in a voice choked with tears.

Being abandoned by you I shall go wherever I please, O lord of the universe, making the righteous my refuge, for truth is indestructible.

At that time the lord of the Shalvas thus abandoned that girl, O Kaurava, who spoke to him plaintively.

Shalva said to her again and again "go, go, I fear Bhishma, O you of beautiful hips, for you are Bhishma's capture."

Being thus spoken to by that Shalva of short foresight, she issued out of that city sorrowing, weeping like a she osprey.

Bhishma said:
As she sorrowfully issued out of the capital she thought within herself: "In this world there is no young woman in a more difficult situation than myself.

I have been robbed of my friends and wronged by Shalva nor am I capable of going back to the city called after the elephant.

The reason being that I was permitted by Bhishma to leave him with the object of going to Shalva. Whom shall I blame, myself or Bhishma who is hard to be approached,

Or that foolish father who made arrangements for the selection of a husband by myself. It was a fault of mine own that at that time from Bhishma's chariot,

I did not leap down to join Shalva, when Bhishma was engaged in fierce battle. The result of that is this, namely that I have been made a fool of.

Shame on Bhishma, shame on my idiotic father of foolish heart that fixed velour to be my dower as if I were a woman who could be sold at a price,

Shame on myself, shame on king Shalva, shame also on the creator through whose fault I am now placed in this difficulty.

In all circumstances does a man go through his share of worldly happiness and misery but Bhishma, the son of Shantanu, is the prime cause of this difficulty.

I now see that for the present I should have revenge on that Bhishma either by austerities or by battle, for in my opinion he is the cause of my misery.

What ruler of the earth would venture to fight with Bhishma." Thinking thus she went out of the city,

To a hermitage of a great souled anchorite of virtuous ways of life and she stayed there for the night surrounded by anchorites.

That lady of sweet smiles told them, everything about herself in due order, O Bharata, in detail, the story of her abduction, her liberation and her abandonment by Shalva.

There lived a great Brahmana of rigid vows Shaikhavatya by name, old in devotion and a preceptor of the holy books and the Aranyakas.

That anchorite, of eminent devotion, said to that chaste lady who was in extreme difficulty and who was sighing in grief and distress.

Such being the case, gentle lady, what can be done by devotees residing in this hermitage, of great parts and great souled though they be?

She however thus replied, O king: “Show me this favour. I desire to wander about and to practice hard devotion.

The deeds that had been done by me in a previous life out of folly are certainly misdeeds and this is surely the result of that.

I do not venture to go back to my kindred, O devotees, rejected and rendered cheerless and wronged by Shalva.

I wish to be instructed here (in asceticism), O ascetics, whose sins have been washed off by you who are god-like; let kindness be shown to me."

He then comforted that lady by citing instances and examples and consoled her by promising to do her work along with others among the twice-born.

Bhishma said:
Then did all those anchorites engage themselves in their respective duties and those virtuous ones thought as to what they should do for that lady.

Some among them then said "Let us take her to her father's place," and some of the anchorites thought of finding fault with ourselves.

Some thought of going to the king of the Shalvas and ask him to accept the girl: some said 'nay' to this proposal for she was rejected by him.

Then did all those anchorites say again to her:- It being so, gentle lady, what can these anchorites do for you, endued with intelligence and self-control though they are ?

There is no need for you to roam about in these woods: Listen to wards that are of benefit to you and go hence to your father's place; may you fare well.

The king, your father, will do what is proper for you and, O blessed lady, you will live there in happiness, endued with all accomplishments as you are.

There is no other proper refuge for you, O gentle lady, save your father; for either the father or the husband is the refuge of a woman, O you of fair complexion.

A husband is a woman's refuge under smoother circumstances and in a difficult situation a father is the refuge; roaming about is a hard task, especially for those brought up in luxury.

Being a princess, you are naturally delicate, O romantic lady; there are many disadvantages, O you of beautiful complexion,

In a life in the hermitage while there will be none in your father's place. Then did other anchorites say to that female devotee these words:-

Seeing yourself alone in these dreary and solitary woods kings will court you; therefore do not set your heart on such a life.

Amba said:
I cannot go to the city of Kashi to my father's place for I shall doubtless to disgraced by my friends.

O ascetics, in my childhood did I live in my father's place but now I shall not go where my father is; may you fare well.

I desire to practice asceticism protected by anchorites so that in the next world too I may not meet with such dire calamities. O foremost among ascetics, therefore am I desirous of practicing asceticism.

Bhishma said:
While those regenerate persons were thus thinking of the merit of the case, the royal sage Hotravahana came into that forest.

Then did all those ascetics worship that ruler of men and welcome him with their greetings, seat and water.

Then did those dwellers of the forest again address that lady in the hearing of that sage after he had taken his seat and rested himself a little.

Hearing those words of Amba, the daughter of the king of the Kashis, O Bharata, that royal sage of great energy became filled with pity.

That king of great austerities, the great-souled royal sage Hotravahana, seeing her and hearing her speak in that way, became filled with pity.

The father of her mother then rose trembling (with rage) and placing her on his lap began to comfort her.

He asked her the story of her wrongs from its origin and in detail and she too submitted to him everything as it had happened in detail.

Then was that royal sage filled with grief and distress and that one of great asceticism resolved, within himself, on his course of action.

Trembling, he said to that distressed and sorrowful girl: “Do not go to your father's place, gentle lady. I am the father of your mother.

I shall remove your sorrow, depend on me, dear daughter. You have enough of grief, child, since you are so lean.

By my advice go to the ascetic Rama, the son of Jamadagni. Rama will remove this heavy and horrible grief of yours.

He will slay Bhishma in battle if he does not act up to his words; go to him, that foremost of the Bhrigu race, who, in energy, is equal to the fire that rages at the time of the universal destruction.

That great anchorite will place you on the even path.” Then shedding tears profusely,

And saluting with her head the father of her mother, Hotravahana, she said "By your command I shall go there.

But shall I be able to see that respected man known throughout the world and how shall he of Bhrigu's race remove my grave sorrow? I desire to know this since I am going there.

Hotravahana said:
"You will see Rama, the son of Jamadagni, devoted to truth and endued with great strength in the great forest, practicing hard asceticism

Rama ever dwells on that highest among the mountains, called Mahendra. Rishis conversant with the Vedas and Gandharavas and Apsaras also live there.

Go there and may you fare well. Tell him these words of mine after saluting that old devotee of firm vows by bowing down your head.

Tell him what you want, gentle lady- hearing my name Rama will do all you ask of him.

Rama is my friend, child, and he is my well-wisher and is highly pleased with me that hero, the son Jamadagni and the foremost of all wielders of weapons."

While Hotravahana that ruler of the earth was thus speaking to that girl, the devoted follower of Rama, Akritavrana, presented himself there.

Then did all those Rishis by thousands as also Hotravahana, the king of the Srinjayas, old in years, stand up.

Seeing him those dwellers of the forest united together did him the rites of hospitality and then sat down surrounding him, O chief among the Bharatas.

Then they began to converse cheerfully and delightfully on subjects that delighted one's heart and which were blessed and divine, O chief among kings.

Then at the end of the conversation, the royal sage Hotravahana, endued with a large soul, asked Akritavrana about Rama the foremost among the great Rishis.

"Where can I see at present the mighty son of Jamadagni, O you of long arms, O Akritavrana, that foremost among those conversant with the Vedas.

Akritavrana said:
Rama ever speaks of you, my lord, saying: The royal sage Srinjaya, that ruler of the earth, is my dear friend.

I think Rama will be here on the morrow. You will see him come here owing to your desire for seeing him.

O royal sage, why is the lady come to the forest, whose daughter is she and what is she to you? I desire to know it.

Hotravahana said:
She is my grand child, my lord, the beloved daughter of the king of the Kashis. O sinless one, she was desirous of choosing her own husband along with her two sisters.

This eldest daughter of the ruler of the Kashis is known as Amba and, O you whose only wealth is devotion, his two younger daughters are called Ambika and Ambalika.

Then was there assembled in the city of Kashi, the entire body of Kshatriya rulers of the earth and there were great rejoicing there, O regenerate Rishi of those princes.

Then did Bhishma, the son of Shantanu, endued with great heroism and energy overthrowing all those rulers of the earth, take away the three girls by force.

Bhishma of sinless soul, having conquered those rulers of the earth came to the city called after the elephant in company with those girls, O Bharata.

That lord after submitting the case to Satyavati ordered for the wedding of his brother Vichitravirya.

This girl, seeing all the arrangements made for the wedding, said there to the son of Ganga in the midst of his councillors, O best among the twice-born.

The heroic king of Shalva has been chosen by me as my husband; O you conversant with virtue, it is not proper that you should give me, who am desirous of another, up to your brother.

Bhishma, hearing those words and consulting with his ministers, came to a decision and following the opinion of Satyavati sent her away,

Permitted by Bhishma this girl rejoicing went to Shalva the lord of Saubha in due time and said these words:

I have been dismissed by Bhishma; act righteously towards me for you had before been chosen by me as my husband, O best among the rulers of the earth.

Shalva, however being suspicious about her character, rejected her and she, coming to this hermitage, has become greatly bent on practicing asceticism.

She was recognized by me owing to her describing her parentage and she thinks Bhishma as the origin of this calamity of hers.

Amba said:
O lord, it is even as this ruler of the earth has said; the progenitor of my mother's self is this Hotravahana of the Srinjaya race.

I do not desire to go back to my father's city, O you whose wealth consists in asceticism, from fear of disgrace and out of shame, O great Muni.

O best among the twice-born, it is my opinion that what the lord Rama points out to me would be my supreme duty, my lord.

Akritavrana said:
For which of these two sorrows do you desire a remedy, O lady. Tell me that truly, O child.

If in your opinion gentle lady, the lord of the Suabhas should be urged, the great-souled Rama, desirous of your good, will urge him.

Or if you desire to see the blamable Bhishma vanquished in battle by the wise Rama, he, of Bhrigu's family, will do that too.

Hearing the words of Srinjaya, and of yours, O you of beautiful smiles, let what ought to be done this very day be settled.

Amba said:
Led away I had been by Bhishma, but he knew not the true state of my feelings. Bhishma did not know, O Brahmana, that my mind learned towards Shalva.

Thinking of this in your mind you should settle about this; do what you think is just.

Do that wish is just and reasonable towards that best among the Kurus and to the king Shalva or to both.

The root of my distress, as it is, had now been submitted by me and it is proper that you should do in this matte what is reasonable.

Akritavrana said:
It is indeed praiseworthy, gentle lady, that you are speaking these words with your eye towards virtue, O you of fair complexion; listen to these words of mine.

If the blamable one had not led you to the city called after the elephant, Shalva would have accepted you, O timid lady, with his head bowed down, urged by Rama.

But since you, gentle lady, had been taken away by him after gaining a victory, O romantic lady, the king Shalva has therefore doubts in you, o you of beautiful waist.

Bhishma is proud of his bravery and success and therefore it stands to reason that your remedy lies in Bhishma.

Amba said:
This desire has ever obtained in my heart. O Brahmana, that I would have but Bhishma slain in battle.

Whoever is blamable, Bhishma to the king of the Shalvas, punish him who has brought about this great distress, O you of long arms.

Bhishma said:
The day passed away while they were conversing on this as also the night which was marked by pleasant breezes that were neither too hot nor too cold, O chief among the Bharatas.

Then did Rama come there as if blazing with energy, the anchorite having matted hairs wearing deer skin was surrounded by his disciples.

The great-souled one came, bow in hand, and holding a sword and battle-axe; and the sinless one approached that ruler of men, Srinjaya, O best among kings.

Seeing him the ascetics and the king of great asceticism stood up with clasped hands; so also did that girl.

Earnestly they adored him of the Bhrigu race, with honey and curds and being duly honored he sat down with them.

Then the two Srinjaya and the son of Jamadagna, sat together conversing on past matters.

At the end of their discourse, the royal sage in proper time said these sweet words pregnant with meaning to Rama, the foremost in the race of Bhrigu, endued with great strength.

O Rama this is my grand daughter, the daughter of the king of the Kashis, my lord; hear what she has to say and settle what can be done for her, O you skillful in deeds.

Rama said to her, "Repeat your grand story"; thereupon she said to Rama who was blazing like fire.

Saluting the holy feet of Rama with her head she touched them with her lotus like hands and stood in front of him.

Being stricken with grief she wept aloud and with her eyes bathed in tears she betook herself to the refuge of the delighter of Bhrigu's race who was of a worthy refuge.

Rama said:
You are the same to me, O princess, as you are to Srinjaya; speak out the grief you have in your mind, I shall act up to your words.

Amba said:
My lord, I be take myself now to your refuge for you are of great vows, Tell me, my lord, who am fallen into the mire of grief and liberate me from the heavy calamity.

Bhishma said:
Seeing her beauty and again her youthful person and her extreme delicacy of mold, Rama became engaged in deep thought.

“What shall this one say ?” So thought Bhrigu; thinking thus Rama was silent for a long time filled with pity.

The lady, of sweet smiles being again asked to recite her story, said everything as had happened to him of Bhrigu's race.

The son of Jamadagni too hearing those words of the princess first settled as to what he should do and then said to her of beautiful hips.

Rama said:
O beautiful lady, I shall send words to that foremost among the Kurus, Bhishma, and that ruler among men. Hearing them will do, my bidding.

If the son of Jahnavi does not do what I say then shall I consume him in battle, O gentle lady, along with his ministers, by the blaze of my weapons.

If, O princess, you are not of that opinion, I shall urge that hero, the king of the Shalvas, to the present matter.

Amba said:
O delighter of Bhrigu's race, I had been dismissed by Bhishma as soon as he heard that my mind already had been to the king of the Shalvas.

Approaching then the king of Saubha I addressed him in improper words, but he did not accept me being suspicious of my character.

Thinking on all this, it is proper that you should think of the means of remedying this by your own knowledge, O delighter of Bhrigu's race.

The root of this distress of mine is Bhishma of great vows, since by him was I brought under subjection taking me up by force.

Slay Bhishma, O you of long arms, for it is by his doings that I am fallen into such distress, O you foremost among the race of Bhrigu, and that I continue in this growing distress.

He is covetous, mean, spirited, and boastful of success, O you of Bhrigu's race; therefore is it reasonable that you should take revenge on him, O sinless one.

When I was being taken away by Bharata, my lord, I made this resolution in my heart, namely, that I should cause this one of great vows to be slain.

Therefore do you fulfill this desire of mine, O sinless Rama; slay Bhishma, O you of long arms, as Purandara slew Vritra.

Bhishma said:
“O Rama, slay Bhishma, “having been thus addressed, my lord, he said to that weeping girl who urged him again and again.

“O princess of Kashi, I do not take up arms from my own desire, O you of fair complexion, except at the bidding of those conversant with the Vedas; what else shall I do for you?

O Princess, both Bhishma and Shalva act up to my words and I shall accomplish this work, Do not grieve.

But I shall not on any account take up arms except at the bidding of regenerate persons; for this is the vow I have made.

Amba said:
By some means or other, my distress has its origin in Bhishma; slay him therefore without delay, my lord.

Rama said:
O princess of Kashi, I tell you again that thought Bhishma is worthy of your worship, he will, at my word, take up both your feet on his head.

Amba said:
Kill Bhishma in battle, O Rama, for he roars like an Asura, after challenging him to fight if you desire, what is pleasing to me, O Rama; besides is proper that you should perform what you have promised.

Bhishma said:
While the two, Amba and Rama, were thus conversing together, the Rishi, of extremely virtuous soul, said these words:

This is not proper for you, O you of long arms, to abandon a girl who has taken refuge with you. If, O Rama, Bhishma being challenged by you in fight,

Either says "I am vanquished" or acts up to your words then the object of this lady will be fulfilled, O delighter of the Bhrigu race.

And your promise, my lord, will be redeemed, At the time (of war with the Kshatriyas), this was your promise, O Rama, O great sage.

Having conquered all the Kshatriyas at the time you made this promise to the Brahmanas. "If a Brahmana or a Kshatriya or a Vaishya or a Shudra in battle,

Becomes the destroyer of a Brahmana I shall slay him” O you of Bhrigu's race, Then, who out of fear will take refuge with me,

I shall never be able to abandon by any means so long I have some alive, even if a Kshatriyas comes to war with me.

"I shall slay that one, of blazing self though he be" O you of Bhrigu's race. O Rama, that Bhishma, the supporter of the Kuru race, is even such, Fight with him in battle therefore, O Rama.

Rama said:

I remember the promise that I made before, O you best among the Rishis, but in this instance I shall act in such a way that I may gain my object by peaceful means.

This work, aimed at by the princess of Kashis, is indeed great, Taking this lady, I shall go myself there where he is.

If Bhishma, proud of his feats in war, does not act up to my commands I shall certainly slay that arrogant one.

The arrows, shot forth by me, do not stick in the body of living creatures (but pass clearly through them); it is known to you in the with the Kshatriyas.

Rama saying this, along with those conversant with Brahma, those great devotees rose up intending to depart.

Then those devotees, staying there for the night, performed their Homa and other ceremonies and went away with the desire of taking my life.

Then did Rama depart accompanied by those utters of Brahma, making for Kurukshetra, O great king, and taking that girl with him.

All of them, namely those great-souled ascetics with that foremost among the race of Bhrigu at their head, having reached the river Sarasvati, encamped there.

Bhishma said:
On the third day of their encampment, the one of great vows sent me words: "I am come, do what is agreeable to me."

Hearing of the arrival of that one endued with great strength at the boundary of my kingdom I went to that lord, the ocean of energy, with great cheerfulness,

With a cow before me and surrounded by Brahmanas, priests and preceptors who were equal to the gods themselves.

The son of Jamadagni, endued with luster, seeking me, accepted that worship and said these words,

Rama said:
I Bhishma, in what frame of mind was the daughter of the king of Kashis led away by you though you wanted her not; and why was she again sent away.

By you has this lady of spotless fame been robbed of virtue; for touched by you as she has been, for whom would it be proper to marry her?

Having been once led away by you she has been rejected by Shalva; therefore do at my words accept her, O Bharata.

Let this princess fulfill her object, O best among men, and it is not proper, O king, that she should be disgraced by you, O sinless one.

Seeing him absent-minded on her account I said, "I cannot again offer her to my brother by any means, O Brahmana, "

To me she said before, I belong to Shalva, O you of the Bhrigu race, and permitted by me went towards his capital.

Not out of fear, nor out of pity, nor out of avarice and nor out of a desire to gain my object shall I abandon the duties of the Kshatriya order, such has been the vow made by me.

Then did Rama say to me with eyes expanded with wrath:- "If you do not act up to my words, O best among men,

I shall slay you along with your ministers;" he said thus to me again and again with eyes expanded with anger.

I again and again entreated that best among the Bhrigu race with sweet words, O chastiser among foes, but could not calm him down.

I then bowing my head to him said again to the best among the Brahmanas; "What is the reason of your proclaiming war with me?

In my childhood had you taught me the use of four kinds of arms, and I am thus your pupil, O you of Bhrigu race.”

Then did Rama say to me with eyes red with anger, "You know me to be your preceptor, O Bhishma, and yet you will not accept this lady,

The daughter of the king of the Kashis for my gratification, O son of Kuru, endued with great intelligence. There is no other way of gratifying me, O delighter of Kuru's race.

Accept this lady, O you of long arms, and perpetuate your family. Being severed from the path of rectitude by yourself she gets no husband."

I said to Rama, the conqueror of hostile cites who was speaking thus : “This will not be, O regenerate Rishi, what is the use of labouring towards it.

O son of Jamadagni, considering that you were my preceptor in days of old I sought to gratify you before, my lord.

Who will permit a woman, who sighs for another and who is therefore like a poisonous snake, to remain in his house knowing the great evils thereof.

O you of great vows, I shall not for fear of Vasava even forsake my duties; either be gratified with me or do what you please without loss of time.

My lord of pure heart, even this Sloka is heard in the Puranas, sung by Maruta endued with a large soul.

The abandonment of a preceptor is provided when he is vain or has swerved from the right path or who does not know what his duties are.

I respected you very much so long because you were my preceptor; but since you do not know the duties of a preceptor, therefore shall I fight with you.

I shall not slay a preceptor in battle, especially as he is a Brahmana and you have been forgiven by me since you are old in devotion.

One, who seeing a Brahmana, ready to fight like a friend of the Kshatriyas, wrathfully slays him who flies not from the fled,

Is not guilty of slaying a Brahmana, such has been authoritatively laid down in the holy books, O you whose only wealth is asceticism, I am a Kshatriya observing the duties of my order.

Such a one as myself who treats such according to his merit does not act unrighteously and does not come by evils.

When one, able to discriminate the propriety of time and place and knowing both virtue and worldly good, is doubtful of his course, he should without hesitation do that which is virtuous.

Since you act unrighteously towards me in a matter connected with profit, I shall certainly fight with you in a great battle.

Behold the strength of my arms and superhuman prowess and what I am capable of, under such circumstances.

I shall do what I can and O regenerate one, I shall fight with you in Kurukshetra; and since you are desirous to fight, be prepared for battle.

Go, O you who are fond of war, and return to the field of Kurukshetra and I shall go there to fight with you, O you whose only wealth is devotion.

Being slain by a hundred arrows shot by me, you will obtain those regions earned by your asceticism, being sanctified by my weapons in the battle.

Where in days of days of old, you sanctified the name of your fathers, even there shall I sanctify you, O you of Bhrigu's race.

Therefore come there quickly, O you who are hard to vanquish in battle and I shall destroy your boast of days of old, which is even now referred to by Brahmanas,

The boast that you have indulged in for a long time past, namely the entire body of Kshatriyas have been conquered by me alone, listen to the cause thereof.

At that time Bhishma was not born not even a Kshatriya like myself, energetic beings were created afterwards, you consumed only straw.

He, who will remove your boasts of velour and desire for war, is now born. He is myself, Bhishma, the subjugator of hostile cities and I shall destroy your pride in battle. There is no doubt about it.

Bhishma said:
Then did Rama say to me with a laugh, O Bharata: It is fortunate, O Bhishma that you want to fight with me in battle.

I shall now go, O son of Kuru, to Kurukshetra with you. I shall do what you say. Go there, O chastiser of foes.

There will your mother Jahnavi see yourself slain by my hundred arrows, O Bhishma, and be made the food of vultures and other birds of prey.

O ruler of the earth, let your mother, worshipped by Siddhas and Charanas seeing yourself slain by me, weep today.

Your mother of great parts, the daughter of Bhagiratha that gave birth to you, fool that you are, and affected by the desire of fight, is however undeserving of such a sight.

Come and let us go together, O Bhishma, who are hard to vanquish in battle and desirous of war; take, O son of Kuru, your chariots etc. O foremost among the Bharatas,

To Rama the conquered of enemies towns who thus said then I bowed my head and said "Be it so."

Rama, saying this, went to Kurukshetra with the desire of war and I too entering the city submitted every thing to Satyavati.

Then after performing propitiatory rites and being blessed by my mother and asking the twice born to bless me,

I mounted a beautiful chariot made of silver and drawn by white horses, beautiful to look at, furnished with good seats, and covered with tiger skins.

It was also furnished with great weapons and all other necessary things and guided by a charioteer of good birth well versed in the art of the management of horses,

Careful and well trained in battle and who had seen many deeds of bravery. I too, with my body covered with a white coat of mail,

And taking a white bow, went out, O best among the Bharatas with a white umbrella held over my head.

I was also fanned by white fans, O ruler of men. I was clad with white garments, white head dress and all my ornaments were white.

I went out of the city called after the elephant, being eulogized with prayers for my victory and approached the site of battle namely Kurukshetra.

Those horses fleet as the mind or the wind, urged by that charioteer, took me, O king, to the great battle.

Myself as also that Rama endued with luster having reached Kurukshetra was each desirous of showing our prowess.

Coming within the sight of that excellent ascetic Rama, I took my good conch and loudly blew it.

At the time, O king, there were ascetics and other dwellers of the forest as well as groups of gods with Indra at their head to see that fight.

There were seen at the time divine garlands and divine music and masses of clouds.

Then did all the devotees, the followers of the scion of Bhrigu's race, become the spectators and surround us.

Then did my divine mother, doing good to all creatures, in her own form say to me, O king, “what is this desired by you?

O supporter of the Kuru race, going to the son of Jamadagni I shall beg of him again and again saying: Do not fight with Bhishma.

Do not, my son fight thus with a Brahmana, O ruler of the earth, do not fight with the son of Jamadagni;" it was thus that she reproved me.

He has strength similar to that of Hara and he is the exterminator of the Kshatriya race, Rama with whom you desire to fight is well known to you.

Then did I say to that goddess after bowing to her and clasping my hands all that had happened in the election of husband, O foremost among the Bharatas.

I told her also the way Rama had been spoken to by me, O chief among kings, and the old doings of the daughter of the king of the Kashis.

Then my mother, the great river, going to Rama and trying to entreat that Rishi, that scion of Bhrigu's race for my sake,

Said these words: "Do not fight with Bhishma for he is your pupil" and he too said to her who was beseeching him. "Turn back the purpose of Bhishma. I am here because he does not perform what I desire."

Vaishampayana said:
Then did Ganga, out of affection for her son, come again to Bhishma but he with eyes expanded with wrath did not attend to her words.

Then did the great devotee of virtuous soul, the foremost of the race of Bhrigu present himself to his view and that best among the twice born summoned him to fight.

Bhishma said:
Laughingly I said to him who stood there for battle: Myself riding on a chariot I do not venture to fight with you who are on the ground.

Mount on a chariot, O hero, and adjust your coat of mail, O you of long arms if, O Rama, you desire to fight with me.

Then did Rama say to me laughingly in the field of battle: "The earth is chariot, O Bhishma, and the Vedas carry me like good horses.

The wind is my driver, and the mothers of the Vedas (Gayatri, Savitri and Sarasvati) constitute my coat of mail. Well protected by these, in battle, I shall fight, O you delighter of the Kurus.”

Saying thus, O son of Gandhari, Rama of true prowess covered me on all sides with a thick shower of arrows.

Then did I see the son of Jamadagni seated on a car holding all the principal weapons, endued with beauty and appearing wonderful to the sight.

The car was created by his will force and was like a holy and spacious city with celestial horses yoked to it and well protected and ornamented with gold.

He was also clad in a coat of mail, O you of long arms, looking like the sun and moon, wielding a bow furnished with a quiver and with his fingers protected by gloves.

Akritavrana, desirous of fighting, performed the office of the charioteer in that battle. He was the dear friend of that de- scendant Bhrigu and very well versed in Vedas.

When he challenged me to fight my heart was very much pleased. The descendant of Bhrigu said to me again and again "come, come."

Then did I approach him who was blazing like the sun, incapable of being vanquished and endued with great strength. Alone I approached Rama, the exterminator of the Kshatriya race.

After receiving three showers of arrows I stopped my horses and dismounting and putting aside my bow, I went on foot to that best among the Rishis.

And coming before him I worshipped Rama the best among the twice born and after saluting him addressed him suitably in these excellent words.

Whether you are equal to me or superior I shall fight with you, my lord, though you are my virtuous preceptor. Bless me that I may obtain victory.

Rama said:
O foremost among the Kurus, such should be done by one who desires prosperity. It is virtuous, O you of long arms, to fight with those that are well known.

If, O lord of the universe, you had not thus come to me I would have cursed you; fight you in battle with patience, O son of Kuru.

I cannot bless you for victory, for I myself am standing here to vanquish you Go, fight fairly, I am pleased with your conduct.

Then did I, after saluting him, quickly mount my chariot and again blew loudly my conch in the field of battle, a conch set with gold.

Then did the fight take place between myself and him, O Bharata for a great many days, O king, during which each was desirous of vanquishing the other.

In the battle, he first struck me with straight arrows with wings of vulture to the number of six hundred and nine.

By that shower, my four horses as also my chariot, O lord of the universe, were completely covered; but clad in a coat of mail, I myself remained calm.

Bowing to the gods and especially to the Brahmanas I laughingly said to him who was standing there for battle.

I have shown sufficient respect to yourself as a preceptor, though you have paid little regard to me. Listen again, O Brahmana, to what should be done if you want to acquire virtue.

The Vedas that are in your body and the great spirit of Brahma that is there and the great asceticism practiced by you, I do not strike at.

I shall strike at your Kshatriya-hood since, O Rama, you have adopted the life of a Kshatriya; a Brahmana becomes a Kshatriya owing to his taking up arms.

Behold now the strength of my bow; and behold the might of my arms. O hero, I shall cut asunder this bow of yours by my arrows.

Then did I hurl towards him a broad headed arrow and by it his bow broke into a million pieces and fell to the ground.

In the same way, I shot a hundred arrows furnished with the wings of a vulture on the son of Jamadagni.

Piercing through his body and carried along by the wind the arrows sped along dropping blood and acting like serpents.

Rama, then with all his body wondered and covered all over with blood, shone in battle like a mountain dropping melted metal.

He looked like the Ashoka tree, at the end of winter, covered with bunches of red flowers or, O king, like the Kinshuka tree when laden with flowers.

Then did Rama, wrathfully taking up another bow, shoot forth arrows well sharpened and furnished with golden wings.

Those fierce arrows, which were like flames and poisonous serpents coming from several sides, caused me to tremble at their great force and pierced my very vitals.

Then did I, with wrath, shoot on Rama arrows, one hundred in number after summoning all my patience and addressing myself to battle.

Rama, struck with those arrows which were like fire or the sun and like poisonous snakes, became like one senseless.

Then was I filled with pity and stopped of my own will and said: "Fie, fie on battle and on Kshatriya practices.” O Bharata.

Being filled with grief I said, "I am a vicious man and what sins have been committed by me for observing the duties of a Kshatriya.

For I have hurt with my arrows my preceptor who is a Brahmana of a virtuous soul. After that O Bharata I did not strike at Jamadagni's son.

At this time, at the end of day, the sun of a thousand rays after heating the earth, went to his rooms and the fight too closed for the day.

Bhishma said:
Then did the charioteer, O lord of the universe, who was regarded as being skillful in such matters, draw forth the arrows from his own body and those of the horses as well as that of myself.

In the morning, the sun having risen the fight commenced again, the horses (of both parties) having been bathed and allowed to roll on the ground, and given water and thereby re-freshed,

Seeing me coming quickly with my coat of mail on and seated on my chariot Rama, of great luster, got ready his car very carefully.

I too, seeing Rama, who was desirous of fight, approaching, keeping aside that best of bows, at once dismounted from my chariot.

Having bowed down to him I got on it again and desirous of fight stood before Jamadgna, past the reach of fear.

Then did I, all on a sudden, cover him with a great shower of arrows: and he too covered me with shower of arrows.

The son of Jamadagni worked up with wrath, again shot forth on me fearful and sharp arrows having months blazing like those of serpents.

Then did I at once again and again cut them asunder, O king, by my hundred and thousands of arrows, when they were still in the air.

Then did the illustrious son of Jamadagni shoot at me celestial weapons but I thwarted them off, O you of long arms.

In fact, O you of long arms, I performed mightier tasks by my weapons on which there was a loud commotion all about, O king.

Then did I shoot at the son of Jamadagni the weapons called Vayavya but Rama, O Bharata, warded if off by the weapon called Guhyaka.

Then did I after repeating suitable incantations shoot the weapon called Agneya but Rama thwarted that weapon called Agneya but Rama thwarted that weapon of mine by one called Varuna, O lord.

In this way did I ward off the heavenly weapons of Rama and the energetic Rama too, that chastiser of enemies, conversant with celestial weapons, thwarted off the weapons of mine.

There did that best among the twice-born, Rama, the son of Jamadagni, suddenly turning to the right, pierce me in my breast.

Then did I foremost among the Bharatas, faint on that best of cars. My charioteer quickly removed me who was deprived of consciousness.

O chief among the Bharatas, seeing me afflicted and struck with the arrows of Rama and removed, being deprived of consciousness,

All the followers of Rama, Akritavrana and others and the daughter of the king of the Kashis all set up a loud shout.

My consciousness (after a time) having come back I said to my charioteer "O charioteer go where Rama is. I am prepared (for battle) for I have now no pains.”

Then did the charioteer bear me by means of exceedingly beautiful horses which went on dancing as it were, O scion of the Kuru race, and which were of the speed similar of that of the wind.

Having then come near Rama and being wrathful I shot forth a shower of arrows, O Kaurava, with the desire of gaining victory over that wrathful one.

But that Rama cut asunder those arrows which went along in straight lines, when they were in still in the air, by shooting three arrows for each of mine.

Then were all of them (Rama's followers) rejoiced at seeing my well furnished arrows cut asunder in two by hundreds and thousands.

Then did I shoot at Rama, the son of Jamadgna with the desire of killing him, blazing arrows of good appearance, guided by death itself.

Struck with its force and owing to its impetus, Rama fainted in the field and fell on the ground.

Rama falling on the ground all began to cry out Alas, Alas, as might be the case, O Bharata, if the sun were to fall on the earth.

Then did all those ascetics and the princess of Kashi, O delighter of the race of Kuru, being filled with anxiety, began to comfort him,

By embracing him and slowly passing over the palms of their hands rendered cold by water and by blessings of victory, O Kaurava.

Then did Rama, rising up, give vent to these wrathful words:- "Stay, O Bhishma, you are already killed" fixing an arrow to his bow.

In that great battle that arrow, shot by him, quickly fell on my right side owing to which I was as much agitated as a tree is shaken by a gale.

Then did Rama, after killing my horses in that great battle, cover me up with clusters of arrows shot with lightness of hand and with such precision that each could carry away with it a single hair of my body.

Then did I too shoot my weapons with lightness of hand so as toward off his arrows, O you of long arms, and those arrows ((of mine and of Rama) stayed in the air (without falling down.)

The arrows shot by Rama and myself completely covered the sky so that even the sun, covered by a net of arrows, could not give forth its heat.

The very wind then shut up in that net could not pass through it. Then owing to the wind being shut up, and the sun too not being able to impart its rays,

And from the clashing of weapons there sprang up a fire and those arrows were ablaze owing to the fire brought into existence by them.

At the time, O king, every body on earth, was reduced to ashes. At that time, hundreds and thousands, and tens of thousands and hundreds of thousands,

And millions and hundreds of millions of Rama's arrows were shot by that wrathful one, all in quick succession.

In that battle, I too, by my arrows resembling poisonous snakes, cutting asunder those arrows, made them fill up the earth like snakes cut up in fragments, O ruler of men.

Such was the wonderful fight that took place at the time, O best among the Bharatas. Evening having passed away my preceptor also retired.

Bhishma said:
O best among the Bharatas, the next day a hard and terrible fight took place with Rama who had come back.

On that occasion did that virtuous souled hero, conversant with celestial weapons, hurl at me, day by day, many celestial weapons.

Those weapons I met by weapons capable of meeting them, O Bharata, in that terrific struggle, casting off hopes of life which is so hard to sacrifice.

When in this way many weapons were neutralized and baffled by other weapons, O Bharata, Rama, of great energy, fought in that battle with me, casting off hopes of life.

Seeing his weapons thus baffled then did the great-souled son of Jamadagni hurl at me the fire weapon called Shakti with its extremely ablaze and shining like a meteor which came to have been shot by Death himself and which pervaded the earth with its effulgence.

I too cut asunder that blazing weapon which was coming against me like the blazing sun at the time of the destruction of the universe and felled it to the earth cut up into three pieces by my felled it to the earth cut of into three pieces by my arrows: then did sweet- smelling breeze blow about me.

That one being cut asunder, Rama excited with wrath, hurled twelve other fierce weapons at me. Their appearance, O Bharata, I cannot describe owing to their effulgence and speed.

How indeed can I do so? I was struck with fear at seeing all those arrows flying towards me from diverse directions and assuming diverse forms and blazing with effulgence as the twelve suns that rise at the time of the destruction of the universe.

Seeing myself surrounded by a net of arrows, I neutralized them by another net of arrows from myself, O king and then in that battle, I shot twelve arrows by which I neutralized even those terrible looking arrows.

Then did the great souled son of Jamadagni, O king, hurl at me fierce arrows having golden handles which were variegated and furnished with golden wings. They were blazing like great meteors.

These too, O chief among men, I caused to fall to the ground with the heel of my sword and shield and then shot forth celestial arrows at the celestial horses of Rama and his charioteer in that battle.

Seeing those arrows, decked with gold, flying at him like serpents let loose from their holes, the great-souled smiter of the lord of the Haihayas became excited with wrath and again brought forth celestial weapons.

Then did a cluster of blazing and fierce arrows looking like a swarm of locusts completely overwhelm my body and my horses and chariot.

By those arrows were my chariot, and all the horses and the charioteer completely covered. The yoke, shaft, wheels and wheel spoken were all broken by the force of that downpour of arrows.

That down pour of arrows having been finished, I too showered arrows on my preceptor. The mass of Brahmic merit pierced with the shower of arrows began to give forth copious discharges of blood.

But in the same measure as Rama was overwhelmed with my arrows, was I also pierced hard with his. When the sun set in the afternoon behind the hills in the west, our combat came to an end.

Bhishma said:
In the morning when the sun had risen, there again began the fight between myself and the scion of the Bhrigu's race.

That foremost of smiters, Rama then seated on a quick-going car, showered nets of arrows on me that fell like clouds on a mountain.

Then that well-wisher of mine, my charioteer, overpowered by that shower of arrows, fell down from his place in the car causing anxiety of my mind.

Then did my charioteer fall into a deep trance and by reason of his being struck with arrows fell down in the earth and became senseless.

Then did the charioteer give up his life being struck with the arrows of Rama and for an instant, O chief among kings, I too was afraid at the time.

On my charioteer being killed, and my mind being excited Rama hurled at me arrows charged with death.

Then did that scion of the Bhrigu race having drawn up his bow with great force hurtle an arrow at me who was overwhelmed at the calamity of my charioteer.

That blood-drinking shaft, having fallen on my arrow, came down on the earth taking me along with it.

Rama too, thinking me to be dead, O best among the Bharatas, roared aloud like the clouds and sent again and again forth a loud shout along with his followers.

Myself having fallen down, Rama, being pleased, gave forth a loud shout along with his followers.

The Kurus who were there at my side and those who came there desirous of seeing the fight, became overwhelmed with deep sorrow at my fall.

When I had fallen down, I saw O lion among kings, eight twice-born ones blazing like the sun. They there surrounding me and supporting me by their arrows in the midst of the field.

Being supported by the twice-born, I did not touch the ground and was held in the air by them as by friends.

They sprinkled drops of water on me as I then was breathing heavily and those Brahmanas, bearing me up, said to me.

“Fear not, you will still be prosperous” and I suddenly stood up, comforted at those words of theirs, and saw my mother, the best among river, seated on the car.

I also saw my heroes held by that great river, O chief among the son of Kuru. Having touched the feet of my mother and worshipping the memory of my ancestors, I ascended my chariot.

She protected myself with my chariot and horses and the weapons for battle and with clasped hands I sent her away.

I then myself held the reins of those horses which had the speed of the wind and fought with the son of Jamadagni till the close of the day.

Then O foremost among the Bharatas, in that battle, I shot forth an arrow of great strength and speed on Rama that struck his heart.

He then fell down on his knees on the earth, overwhelmed by my arrow with his bow loosened from his grasp, and swooned away.

When Rama, the giver of thousands, had fallen down, clouds covered the sky discharging copious blood.

Meteors too fell by hundreds and thousands and roared, making every thing shake. And suddenly Rahu swallowed the shining sun.

High winds blew and the earth trembled and the cultures and cranes and crowns came down with joy.

The cardinal points were ablaze and jackals began to cry aloud every moment; and drums untouched began to give forth harsh sound.

All these frightful omens occurred on the high-souled Rama falling down on the earth in a swoon.

Then Rama, rising up suddenly, approached me, with a view to a renewal of fight, O son of Kuru, being himself excited and made senseless by anger.

The one of long arms took up his bow which was strong and also took up an arrow; but I withstood Rama equipped as he was.

The great Rishis were filled with pity and that descendant of Bhrigu was filled with anger and he, the one of immeasurable soul, too neutralized my arrow which was like the fire that rages at the time of the universal destruction.

Then did the sun, covered by dust and its effulgence clouded, slowly set and night came on with its cool breezes and then we desisted from war.

In this way, O king, was there an end to the fight and again was there a fierce encounter at the dawn of day and so on day after day for three twenty days.

Bhishma said:
Then during the night, O great king, having bowed to all the Brahmanas, my fore fathers, all the gods,

To all those beings that walk about in the night, to all elements, earth, water, fir, air and the sky, and to all kings, O lord of earth, I lay down on my bed, and being all alone, I began to reflect (thus).

This terrible battle, between myself and Jamadgnya, being as it is of high and mighty consequence, lasted for many a day.

And yet I have not been able to vanquish, in fight on the field of battle, this twice-born Rama, known as Jamadgnya who is of great might and energy.

I indeed, it lies in my power to vanquish this powerful son of Jamadagni, let the gods, well-pleased, show themselves to me during the night.

Then, O great king, mangled with arrows, as I lay asleep that night on my right, at about dawn came,

Those foremost of Brahmanas by whom I had been raised up when I had fallen down from chariot, and who had held me and comforted me, saying, "Fear not."

Even they, O great king, showing themselves to me (during my sleep) in a dream, stood around me, and spoke these words; Hear them, O perpetuator of Kuru's race,

Rise up and do not fear, O son of Ganga, you have not the least fear, for we will protect you, O son, who are own body.

Rama, the son of Jamadagni, by no means will vanquish you in battle. (Rather), you will vanquish Rama in battle, O best of Bharata's race.

This well-beloved weapon you will recognize for it was known to you in your previous birth.

It appertains to the lord of all creatures (Brahma) and was manufactured by the divine architect; it is named Prasvapa, O Bharata. It is not known even to Rama nor to any body else on the earth.

Recollect it therefore, O you of mighty arms, and apply it steadily and with all your strength. It will come to you of itself, O you great king and sinless one.

By this weapon, by which O son of Kuru, you will hold in check all persons of mighty energy, Rama will not be killed outright, o king of men.

No crime will therefore attach to you giver of honors. And this son of Jamadagni will fall asleep, afflicted by the might of this weapon of yours.

Having thus vanquished him, you yourself will raise him up again to the battle-field by that dear weapon, O Bhishma, known as Samabodhana.

Do as we tell you, O son of Kuru, seated on your chariot at day-break. Asleep or dead, we consider it to be the same.

O king, Rama will not die by any means. Apply therefore, this (weapon ) Prasvapa, happily brought for you.

Having said this all those best of Brahmanas vanished, O king. They were eight in number, resembling one another appearance, and shone brightly, having no material bodies.

Bhishma said:
When they had passed away, I awoke. O Bharata; I was filled with great joy as I thought of the dream.

Then begin that mighty battle between him and me, O Bharata, which was wonderful and which made the hairs of all creatures stand on end.

Then Bhargava rained on me a shower of arrows, which I baffled by a (like) shower of arrows, O Bharata.

Thereupon he, of great asceticism, was greatly incensed and remembering what had happened the day before, he hurled, with anger, a dart at me,

Which was as hard as Indra's thunderbolt, was equal in effulgence, to the mace of Yama, (god of death) blazing like a flaming fire and licking as it were with its tongue, all quarters of the battle-field.

Then, O best among Kurus, it struck me on my shoulder, even then, O perpetuator of Kuru's race, like a lightning ranging in the sky.

Thus wondered by Rama, O red-eyed one of mighty arms, blood flowed freely like streams of red earth from a mountain.

Greatly incensed, I darted, at the son of Jamadagni, a deadly shaft, comparable to the poison of a serpent only.

That hero, the best of the twice-born, struck by on the forehead, shone beautiful as a mountain with its peak.

Filled with great wrath he turned round, and drawing his bow with great strength aimed at me a terrible shaft, resembling death himself and capable of grinding all enemies.

That fierce shaft struck me on the breast hissing (through the air) like a serpent, and I fell down to the earth, O king, covered with blood.

Regaining my consciousness, I hurled at that intelligent son of Jamadagni a dart, bright and blazing as the lighting flesh.

That dart fell on the chest of that best of Brahmanas. And, O king, having fainted (from pain) he began to tremble all over.

Then his friend, that twice-born and great ascetic named Akritavrana, embraced him again and again and soothed him with words of auspicious import.

Thus comforted, Rama was filled with anger and vindictiveness, and that keeper of all observances brought forth a mighty weapon of Brahma.

Then, for the purpose of baffling also, I aimed the same excellent weapon of Brahma, which blazed forth, appearing like what happens at the end of the Yuga (at the final destruction).

Then those two Brahmic weapons met each other in mid-air, without being able to reach either Rama or myself, O best of Bharata's race.

Thereupon, in mid-welkin, only a flame blazed forth, and O lord of earth, all creatures becomes greatly afflicted.

The Rishis, and the gods together with the Gandharvas, O Bharata, became greatly afflicted, struck by the blazing effulgence.

Then the earth, with the mountains, forests and trees, began to tremble, and all creatures, becoming heated, became highly afflicted.

The firmament, O king, began to burn the ten points of the compass were filled with smoke. At that moment, those creatures that range the sky could not stay there.

While during this time all creatures, with the gods, the Asuras and Rakshasas began uttering exclamations of woe, O Bharata, “This is the time," thought I and become desirous of shooting,

That weapon Prasvapa speedily, according to the words of command of the speakers of Brahma. And the Mantras also for using that weapon suddenly came to my mind.

Bhishma said:
Then when I had thus made up my mind there arose a mighty din of tumultuous voices in the sky, O king, saying, “O Bhishma, O son of Kuru's race do not let go that weapon Prasvapa."

But for all that I still aimed that weapon at the descendant of Bhrigu. As I was aiming it, Narada addressed me, saying

These gods are stationed yonder in the sky, O son of Kuru's race. They are forbidding you today, do not aim the weapon Prasvapa.

Rama is an ascetic, possessed of the attributes of Brahma; he is a Brahmana, and moreover your preceptor. Do not O son of Kuru, inflict humiliation on him, by any means,

Then I saw those eight speakers of the Brahma, stationed in the sky. O great king, smilingly they spoke these words to me slowly.

O best among Bharata's race, do as Narada has spoken to you, for this, O best among the Bharatas, is highly beneficial to all creatures.

Thereupon, withdrawing that mighty weapon Prasvapa, I made the Brahma weapon to blaze forth according to the ordinance.

Thereupon Rama, beholding that the Prasvapa weapon was withdrawn, was greatly excited and suddenly gave out these words, Fool that I am, I am vanquished, O Bhishma. Then the son of Jamadagni saw his father, and the venerable father of his father, who stood there surrounding him, and consoling him, spoke at the time:-

The father said:
Do not display such rashness again O son, by any means, especially of going to battle with Bhishma, who is a Kshatriya.

This is the duty of a Kshatriya, viz., to fight; O descendant of Bhrigu, study and the observance of religious austerities are the best wealth of the Brahmanas.

This (taking up of arms) was ordered by us to you for some special reasons before this. Then you had taken up your arms most fiercely and performed that unenviable deed (the extermination of the whole Kshatriya race).

What time you have fought with Bhishma has been enough, Oson. O you of mighty arms, desist from this combat, leave the battle- field.

Blessing be to you, let this be enough of taking up the bow. But desist from this now, invincible one. Practice austerities, Bhargava.

Here is Bhishma, the son of Shantanu, who has been made to desist from battle by all the gods, who are endeavoring to pacify him by saying “Desist from this battle."

“Do not fight with Rama, your preceptor", again and again (saying this). It is not becoming for you, O perpetuator of the race of Kuru, to vanquish Rama in battle.

O son of Ganga, do honour to this Brahmana on the field of battle. We are your superiors and therefore forbid you.

Bhishma is one of the foremost of the Vasus. It is only by good luck that you are still living. This Shantanu's son by Ganga is a celebrated Vasu.

How can he be vanquished by you? Desist at this point, O descendant of Bhrigu. That best among Pandavas, Arjuna, who is the powerful son of Indra,

Who is Nara, who is the lord of all creatures, a hero, who was before this a god, who is without beginning and end, and who, mighty as he is, is known throughout the three worlds as Savyasachin, is ordained by the self- create (Brahma) to be the death of Bhishma in the ripeness of time.

Bhishma said:
Being thus spoken by his ancestors, Rama thus spoken to them, "I will not desist from the combat, this is the vow I have taken upon myself.

Before this, I had never been made to turn beak (from combat ) on the field of battle. O grandsires, make the Ganga's son of desist from the battle, if it so pleases you.

"But as for me, I will never hold back from this combat.” Then those ascetics, O king, with Richeeka at their head,

And accompanied by Narada, came up (to me) and thus spoke "Desist from the battle, O son. Honour that foremost of Brahmanas.

“No” I said to them “ according to the duty of a Kshatriya, this is my vow, that never from battle, I will turn back or suffer my back to be wondered by arrows. Not from covering any objects of desire, nor from fear, nor for the sake of wealth,

Shall I abandon my eternal duty, this is my fixed resolution." Then all those ascetics, O king, with Narada at their head,

And Bhagirathi, my mother, occupied the field of battle (between myself and Rama). I however, stood with my bow and arrows as before, and with fixed resolution as before, on the battle-field, to go on fighting. Then they said to Rama.

Once more, all them together, going up to the descendant of Bhrigu, on the battle-field said, "The hearts of the Brahmanas are as soft as butter, O son of Bhrigu; be pacified.

O Rama, O Rama, O best of Brahmanas, desist from this battle. Bhishma is incapable of being killed by you, as you by Bhishma, O son of Bhrigu's race."

Addressing him with these words, and obstructing the battle-field, his forefathers made the descendant of Bhrigu lay aside his weapons.

And then I again saw those eight revealers of Brahmana, blazing like eight constellations risen (in the sky).

They then spoke these words with affection to me, who stood on the field of combat, “O you of mighty arms, go up to Rama, your preceptor. Do what is good to all the world.”

Beholding that Rama desisted (from battle) at the words of his well-wishers, I also, for the good of the worlds, accepted (their) words.

Thereupon severely wondered as I was, I went up to Rama, and bowed down to him. Rama also that great ascetic, smiling with love, spoke to me.

"There is no Kshatriya among all men equal to you on the face of the earth. Go you, O Bhishma, for in this combat I have been highly pleased with you.

Then in my presence, summoning that maiden (the daughter of Kashi), the descendant of Bhrigu, spoke (to her) in these modest words, before all the high-souled ones.

Bhishma said:
In the very sight of all these persons O maiden, I have done better, according to the best of my power, and displayed my highest prowess.

And yet I have been unable to gain any superiority over Bhishma, that foremost of all wielders of weapons, though I have exerted to the very of my power.

This (which you have seen) is my highest might, this is greatest strength. Go whiter you like, O blessed lady. What else can I do for you?

Take refuge even with Bhishma himself; there exists no other for you. I am vanquished by Bhishma on account of his using such mighty weapons."

Then the high-souled Rama, having thus spoken, fetched a deep sign and remained silent. Then that maiden spoke to the descendant of Bhrigu.

“O holy one, it is even as your holy self has said. This Bhishma, of varied intelligence, is invincible in battle even by the very gods.

To the best of your power and to the best of your energy you have accomplished my work, and in this battle you have shown irresistible might and diverse kinds of weapons.

You have yet been unable to show any superiority (over Bhishma). As for me I shall not go again to this Bhishma. Thither, however, shall I repair, where, O you whose wealth is asceticism, I shall be able myself to (obtain the means to fell down in battle this Bhishma, O you the perpetuator of the race of Bhrigu."

Having spoken thus, that maid went away with eyes agitated with wrath; and intending to bring about my death she firmly resolved to practice asceticism.

Then that foremost one among Bhrigu's defendants, accompanied by those ascetics, departed, after bidding me farewell for the mountain of Mahendra, O Bharata, whence he had come.

Thereupon, sending my chariot, and praised by the twice-born, I entered the city and immediately informed Satyavati, my mother,

Every thing as it had happened, O great king, and she (in her turn) uttered words and congratulations to me. I then appointed intelligent and wise men to watch the proceedings of that maiden.

Day after day, they went and learnt whatever she did, being devoted and always stationed at their duty, and brought them to me, always their well-wisher.

Even at the time when that maiden went to the woods best on practicing asceticism, I became melancholy and poorly with pain.

No Kshatriya has ever by mere prowess vanquished me in battle, except one acquainted with Brahma, O my son and observant of vows and austerities.

I then informed even Narada, O king, and also Vyasa of the doings (of that daughter of the king of Kashi), and both of them said to me.

"O Bhishma, you need not be depressed on account of the daughter of Kashi. Who can have the power to alter the course of destiny by individual resolution?

That maiden, O great king, having entered the pale of a secluded pot, began practicing austerities of superhuman endurance, on the banks of the Yamuna,

And she remained in the water of the Yamuna for one year, and another year, that lady remained fasting without food.

Without food and emaciated, rough skined, and bronzed, with matted locks, and begrimed with the mud (of the river), that lady, whose wealth consisted in asceticism, remained fixed and motionless for six months, her only food being the air.

And after this she broke her fast by eating a single dry leaf, and then she the great river on one foot fire with indignation as she was.

And thus she continued for twelve years (her austerities) and made the heaven not. Nor could she be made to desist from the course by her relatives.

Then she went to Vatsabhumi, resorted to by Siddhas and Charanas, and the retreat of high-souled ascetics of pious deeds.

And there, in the sacred waters of pilgrimages, she bathed herself night and day, and that daughter of the lord of Kashi roamed about, fierce as she was, according to her desire.

Proceeding next to the hermitage of Narada, and then to the auspicious hermitage of Uluka, and to that of Chyavana, and even to the sacred spot of Brahma,

And to Prayaga, the sacrificial spot of the gods, and to the forest sacred to the gods and to Bhogavati, O monarch, as also to the hermitage of Kaushika,

And to the hermitage of Mandvya O king, as also to the hermitage of Dilipa to the (sacred) water of Rama's lake, O Kauravya, and to the hermitage of Pailagarga,

In these sacred places of pilgrimages that maiden of Kashi, O lord of earth, bathed her body, and all this while practicing the austerities difficult of performance.

(One day) my mother, ( Ganga) while in the waters, spoke these words, O Kaurava why do you take so much pains, O blessed one! Tell me the truth.

She then spoke, of whom no one can speak evil, with hands folded to my mother "O fair-eyed one, Rama has been vanquished in battle by Bhishma.

Who else, though a lord of earth, can attempt to vanquish him when he stands forward with his arrows? And I am practicing these sever austerities for the destruction of Bhishma.

I wander about in the earth, O goddess, with the one purpose of obtaining the means of death of that king, and this is the vow I have taken, O goddess, in everything else that I do.”

Thereupon the ocean, going (Ganga my mother) spoke: "O lady, you are acting crookedly. O faultless one, this object of yours you shall not be able to attain, O weak one.

O daughter of Kashi, if you hold to this vow for the destruction of Bhishma, and even if you take leave of your body while performing these austerities.

You shall be turned to a tortuous river, O fair one, with water (only in the rains. Your water shall be inaccessible and unknown, and (as you shall be) with water only during the rainy season, you shall be dry for eight months (in the year);

Filled with dreadful alligators and yourself dreadful, and inspiring terror in all creatures.” Having thus spoken, O king, my mother, that lady of great fortune pretending to smile, dis- missed the daughter of Kashi. Thereupon that highly fair one did not even drink water, sometimes for eight months and sometimes for ten months.

And the daughter of the king of Kashi, O Kauravya, on account of her love of pilgrimage came to Vatsabhumi, and there she fell down and began to run down (as a river.)

And O Bharata, it is recorded that the river in Vatsabhumi, was filled with water only during the rains, and abounded in alligators, was difficult to ford and tortuous (in her course).

O king, by merit of her austerities that maiden became a river by only half her body, while by the other half she remained a maiden in Vatsabhumi, as before.

Bhishma said:
Then all the ascetics (living in Vatsabhumi), perceiving her firmly resolved on practicing austerities, dissuaded her, and they said "O child, what do you mean to do?"

Then to those Rishis hoary with asceticism, spoke the maiden: "I have been undone by Bhishma, and despoiled of those virtues that would have been mine by living with my husband.

My observance of vows is for his destruction, and not for the sake of the worlds of happiness, O you that have asceticism for your wealth. Having slain Bhishma I shall attain peace (of mind); this is my resolve.

Him by whom this existence has become one of continuous misery, by whom I have been deprived of the region where my husband is, for whom I am neither a woman nor a man in this life,

Without slaying in battle that son of Ganga, I will not desist, O you whose wealth is asceticism. That which I have here spoken in wards, even that is the resolve in my heart within.

I am disgusted with remaining in this state of mine as a woman, and I am firmly resolved upon attaining the state of a man. I will be revenged upon Bhishma. I should not be dissuaded any more.

To that ascetic lady, the god who holds the trident in his hand, and who is the husband of Uma, showed himself in his own form in the midst of those Maharshis.

Being asked to solicit her wished for boon, she prayed of the god my defeat. "You will slay him", thus that god answered that lady of firm resolution.

"Thereupon again she said to Rudra, How can it happen, that mine shall be the victory in battle, O god, as I am, a woman?

O lord of Uma, my mind is perfectly calm, so far as regards a woman. And you have also promised, O lord of all creatures, the defeat of Bhishma.

Act in such a way that this (promise) may be true, O god who has the bull for the mark, and so that on encountering Bhishma, the son of Shantanu in battle, I may slay him.”

To that maiden Mahadeva (the great god) having the bull for his carrier thus spoke truly, "My words can not be false. They shall turn out true, O blessed one.

You will slay Bhishma in battle, for you will attain the state of a man. And you will recollect all this, when you go to another body.

Borne in the race of Drupada, you shall be a Maharatha, quick in the use of weapons, skilled in fighting in various ways, and a fierce warrior.

As I have spoken, O blessed one, so shall it all be. You will be a man after some time has elapsed."

So saying, Mahadeva, otherwise, known as Kapardin, and having the bull for his carrier, vanished even then and there while the Brahmanas were looking on.

Thereupon that faultless damsel of fairest complexion, in the very sight of those great Rishis, having gathered fuel from that wood,

And making a large funeral pyre and having set fire (to it), O monarch, with a mind burning with wrath, even in that flaming fire,

That eldest daughter of the king of Kashi, O king, entered the fire on the banks of the river Yamuna, saying (as she did so) “For the destruction of Bhimasena.

Duryodhana said:
Tell me, O grandsire, how Shikhandin, who had been before a daughter, O son of Ganga, became a man. O foremost of warriors.

Bhishma said:
The chosen and beloved queen of king Drupada, O great king, was childless at first, O monarch.

And during this time the highly intelligent king Drupada, pleased by worship, O mighty king, the God Shankara for the sake of offspring.

Resolving to bring about my destruction, he took to the severest penances, and said "Let mine be a son, and not a daughter, O Mahadeva;

O God, I desire a son, to revenge myself on Bhishma.” Then this was said (to him) by Mahadeva, "Your son shall be both male and female.

Desist therefore, O protector of the earth, it shall never be otherwise." He (king Drupada) entering his city said to his wife.

“I have made a great exertion; O goddess, I have worshipped Shambhu by penances, and I have been told by him. "(Your offspring) will first be a female and will then become a man."

Though repeatedly solicited, Shiva only said "It is decreed by destiny. It shall not be otherwise, but when as I have told you”.

Thereupon that lady of great force of mind kept her mind rigidly pure and the wife of king Drupada, at the proper time went to king Drupada.

Agreeably to the decrees of destiny the wife of Prishata, in due time, conceived, as Narada informed me, O ruler of the Earth.

And that goddess, whose eyes resembled the petals on the lotus, continued to hold her fetus. And to that dear wife, O son of Kuru, king Drupada,

The mighty-armed one, on account of his affection for his son, ordered all that was agreeable. And O Kaurava, his wife obtained everything that she desired.

And in due time that goddess, the queen of the childless lord of earth, king Drupada,

Even that lady of great force of mind, O lord of men, gave birth to a daughter of great beauty.

O great king, thereupon the king Drupada gave out to all, this is my son, and for this daughter, who was concealed.

O lord of men, (he) caused all the necessary rites to be performed just as if it were a son. And the imperial wife of Drupada protected the secret with all due care, saying, "This is a son indeed." And neither did any one else other than the son of Prishata know (the child to be a) daughter, in all that city.

Reverencing the words of that god of immeasurable glory, he kept to himself that she was a daughter, and said, "This is a male child."

And that king caused all the rites prescribed for a son during infancy to be performed according to all due ordinances, and named her Shikhandin.

I alone, by means of spies, and through the words of Narada, and through the words of the god (Shiva) and also from the austerities of Amba, was informed (of the child being a son).

Bhishma said:
Drupada bestowed all possible care on all the (necessary) accomplishments of his daughter, O vanquisher of foes, teaching her writing, painting and all the arts.

And in (the practice of ) arrows and (other) weapons O great king, she became a disciple of Drona. And O great king, the mother of that child, a lady of the fairest complexion, urged the king for a wife for that daughter, as if she were a son. Thereupon the sin of Prishata, perceiving her to have attained youth, became thoughtful along with his wife, considering her to be a female.

Drupada said:
This daughter of mine, who now adds to my woe, has attained her youth. And she has been concealed by me on the (strength of the) words of the holders of the trident.

His wife said:
O great king, that (word) will never prove false. How can it be proper for the Creator of the three worlds to speak anything false on this earth?

If it pleases you, O king, hear what I say. And then having listened to it, the descendant of Prishata may take to his own wisdom.

According to due rites, cause him to take a wife, with all care. Those words of him (Shiva) will turn out true, even this is my firm belief.

Then that royal couple, making a firm resolution as regards that work, chose as a bride the maiden daughter of the king Dasharnakas.

Thereupon the king Drupada, the lion among kings, having heard of the (respective) purity if descent of the lineage of all kings, chose the daughter of the king of the Dasharnaka territory as the wife of Shikhandin.

That king Dasharnaka, known as Hiranyavarman (or the golden-armoured) even that ruler of earth gave away his daughter to that Shikhandin.

And throughout all the Dasharnaka territories that king was a mighty one, and incapable of being conquered. He was protected by a golden Armour, was irresistible, had a large army and was high-souled.

And some time after the wedding had been performed, that daughter, O best of kings, attained her youth; and that daughter, Shikhandin, had also attained her youth.

And Shikandin, being wedded, returned to Kampilya. And then after a certain time she (daughter of Hiranyavarma) came to know her to be a woman. And the daughter of Hiranyavarman, knowing Shikhandin to be a woman,

Represented to her nurses and lady companions with shame (this fact) about the maiden daughter of the king of the Panchalas, viz. Shikhandin.

Then those nurses from the Dasharnaka territories, O best among kings, became greatly afflicted, and dispatched emissaries (to their king).

Thereupon all the emissaries to the king of the Dasharnaka territories informed him of the deception that had been practice, as it had happened. And that king became filled with anger.

And, O great king, Shikhandin also at that time conducted himself like a male at the royal court with great joy, setting aside as it were his feminine nature.

After the lapse of a few days, O best of the race of Bharata, on hearing of this fact (Shikhandin bearing himself like a male), Hiranyavarman, O great king, was afflicted with anger.

Thereupon the king of Dasharna country, being filled with terrible anger, sent an ambassador to the court of king Drupada.

Then the ambassador of the golden-armoured king having alone approached the king Drupada, took him aside and spoken these words to him in private.

The king of the Dasharna country, O king, has spoken these words to you, being deceived by you and enraged with you at the deception, O sinless one.

“You have insulted me. Surely it was not considerately done that you wanted my daughter for your daughter from folly.

Take now the fruit of that act of deception, O wicked one, for I will now slay you with all your relatives and ministers. Wait a bit.”

Bhishma said:
Thus addressed by that messenger, O king, the king Drupada, like a thief caught (red handed), could not utter a word.

He made great efforts, for the purpose of pacifying his son's (daughter) father-in-law, by means of messengers, instructing them to say sweetly and persuasively, 'It is not so.'

That king (Hiranyavarman), thereupon once more ascertained the real fact, that the offspring of the king of the Panchalas was a daughter, and went forth (out of his city) without delay.

He then sent information to all his friends (who were) of immeasurable strength, regarding the deception that had been practiced upon his daughter, according to the massage of the nurses.

Then that best of kings, having mustered a large army, formed the resolution of marching against the king Drupada, O Bharata.

Then that ruler of the earth, Hiranyavarman held a consultation with his ministers, O great king (as to the course to be taken) against the king of the Panchalas.

It was then and there resolved with certainly among those high-souled kings "If this be really true that Shikhandin is a daughter, O king, then having bound the king of the Panchalas, we shall drag him (here) and having installed another king who will rule over the people,

We will slay this king of the Panchalas along with Shikhandin. Knowing this to be the fixed resolve the king (Hiranyavarman) once more sent messengers to the son of Prishata, (with the message ). “I shall slay you, wait a little.”

Bhishma said:
That king was by nature not courageous, and was quiet. King Drupada, through a ruler of the earth, was dreadfully alarmed.

Having despatched messengers of the Dasharna king, king Drupada, fainting with grief, approached his wife in secret and spoke these words.

Being filled, as the Panchala king was, with great fear and struck with grief at his heart, he said to the beloved mother of Shikhandin.

"My father-in-law, son's king Hiranyavarman, having mustered a large army, is advancing against me with anger, powerful as he is.

Fools that we both (of us) are, what are we to do now, as regards this daughter of ours? Your son Shikhandin is very much suspected to be a daughter.

Under this suspicion, (king Hiranyavarman), thinking, I have been deceived, wants to slay me with his friends and army carefully mustered.

O you of beautiful hips, tell me what is truth is (this case) and O beautiful lady, what is false. O auspicious one, having heard from you, I will make arrangements (how to act).

I have been thrown in danger, as well this daughter Shikhandin. You also, O imperial lady of the finest complexion, are in great danger.

As I ask you, tell me that the truth is, for the relief of all (of us). O lady with beautiful hips and fair smiles, it depends on your words as to what ought to be speedily done.

Do you not fear, neither (let) Shikhandin (fear), for I will make suitable arrangements through kindness through I have been deprived from the duties to a son.

That ruler of the earth, the king of the Dasharna country has been deceived by me. Speak, therefore O highly blessed lady, so that I may do what should be for the benefit (of all).”

That goddess-like lady, being thus addressed before all the ministers by the king, for the proclamation of his innocence to others, though he knew everything, replied to the lord of the earth.

Bhishma said:
The mother of Shikhandin, O mighty-armed ruler of men, related to her husband all about her daughter Shikhandin in accordance with the real facts.

Childless as I was, O great king, and from fear of my companion, wives, my daughter Shikhandin, when born, was represented to you as a son,

O best of men, you had, also, from love of me, corroborated it and O best among kings, the rites belonging to a son were performed for this daughter.

And a wife was given to her, O king viz., the daughter of the king of the Dasharna territories and it was approved of by me; seeing as I did the meaning of the words of that dirty, “Born as a maiden, she will become a male” we ignored this fact of her being a daughter.

Hearing this, king Drupada known as Yagasena, having conformed all his councillors of all these facts, held a consultation, O king, as to the best means of protecting his subjects.

Although he had himself deceived the king of the Dasharna country, yet sanctioning the alliance as quite proper, he began to settle his plans with concentrated attention.

Naturally well-defended, O Bharata, (he) began to fortify his city, at the time of danger, in all possible ways, and adorned it (with works of defense).

But the king was nevertheless afflicted with great grief, together with his queen, O best among Bharata's race, at this enmity with the king of Dasharna territories.

Considering in his mind as to how there might not be this great enmity with his son's father-in-law, he began to worship the gods.

Thereupon, perceiving him to be devoted to the gods, O king, and paying his worship, his wife, that goddess like lady spoke these words.

Though in prosperity, the worship of gods is truly prescribed by all righteous men, what then (ought to be said) about those who are in distress? Therefore, worship your superiors.

Pay worship also to all the gods with large presents (to the Brahmanas) and let the sacred fires be ablaze, to pacify the Dasharna king.

O my lord, think in your mind (about a way) for pacification without involving a war. Through the grace of the gods, all this will happen.

Do as you had been counseled when you consulted with your ministers, O you with large eyes, for the preservation of this city, O king.

When earthy power is joined to godly power, it will surely succeed, O king. But there is no success when these are against each other,

Therefore, having taken the necessary steps as regard this city with your ministers, pay adoration, O lord of earth, to the gods according to your desire.

Perceiving those two, overwhelmed with grief, talking to each other, that daughter Shikhandin, ascetic as she was, filled with shame.

Thereupon she thought (within herself), “these two (my father and mother) are afflicted with grief on my account." Then she made up her mind for destroying her own life.

Having firmly taken this resolution and been deeply afflicted with grief, she went out to a deep and lonely forest, abandoning her house.

That forest, O king, was inhabited by a very rich and powerful Yaksha named Sthunakarna a and it was through his fear that men forsook that forest.

And there was the abode of Sthuna, washed with lime, from which issued smoke bearing the smell of fried paddy, and (surrounded) with high walls with a gate way.

Entering it, the daughter of king Drupada Shikhandin, O king, began to reduce her body by remaining without food for many a day.

That Yaksha Sthuna, who was endued with kindliness, showed himself to her (and said ), "for what purpose have you began this proceeding? Tell me and do not make delay, for I will do it.”

"It cannot be performed", she replied to the Yaksha again and again. But that Guhyaka returned her answer immediately (by saying) "I shall surely do it."

“O daughter of the king, I am an attendant of the god of wealth, and I can grant boons. I will bestow even what is unbestowable. So tell me what you desire."

Thereupon Shikhandin related to that chief of the Yakshas, named Sthunakarna, O Bharata, everything in detail.

Shikhandin said:
“O Yaksha, my father, bereft of a son, will very soon meet with destruction, for the lord of the Dasharna territories is marching against him with anger.

That golden-armoured king is very powerful, and of great energy. Therefore protect me, O Yaksha, and my father and mother.

The pacification of my grief has been promised by you. Let me become a man, O Yaksha, through your grace, O faultless one.

So long as that king does not depart from my city, bestowed your grace, O great Yaksha and Guhyaka.

Bhishma said:
At length the Yaksha, hearing the words of Shikhandin, said, afflicted by destiny, after considering in his mind,

Truly, it was decreed to be so for my (Bhishma's) grief, O Kaurava. "O fair one I will accomplish your wish, but listen to a condition.

I will bestow upon you my own manhood, for a certain period. But, (after its lapse) you will have to come in (due) time. Now, speak the truth to me.

Master as I am, I have the power to do whatever I wish; I can range in the sky for I can roam about freely according to my will.

Through my grace, save your city and your friends completely.

I will take on myself this your maidenhood, O daughter of a king. Pledge yourself to me (as to the condition) and I will do what is dear to you.

Shikhandin said:
O you of good vows, will return to you your manhood, O God. Only for a certain period bear by womanhood, O night ranger.

On the departure of the Dasharna king, who is known as the golden-armoured heroes, I will become a woman, and you will become a man.

Bhishma said:
Having spoken thus, they two made an agreement O king, and they transferred to each other their (respective) sexes.

The Yaksha Sthuna took upon himself (her) maidenhood, O Bharata, and Shikhandin obtained the blazing form of the Yaksha.

Thereupon Shikhandin, the Panchalya, having obtained manhood, O king, entered the city and went to his father with great joy.

And he related everything as it had fallen out to the king Drupada. Hearing this he became filled with exceeding joy.

And together with his wife, he recollected the words of Maheshvara. Then he sent words to the king of the Dasharna land, king.

"This offspring is a male. May you believe this." At length the Dasharnaka king suddenly approached,

Drupada the king of the Panchalas, being filled with grief and sorrow. Thereupon having reaching Kampilya, the lord of Dasharna,

Sent a messenger, one of the best of those who know the Vedas, after having paid him (due) honors. Tell that most wretched king of the Panchalas according to my words,

That as you selected my daughter for your daughter, O wicked one, so you will see the fruit of that insult very soon, no doubt,

Thus addressed, that Brahmana messenger, dispatched by that Dasharna king, traveled towards the city, O best of kings.

That priest then arrived at the city of Drupada. And to him, the Panchala king paid all homage by offering a cow and the Arghya (a mixture of honey, milk &c paid as a homage on one's arrival at a house).

And (the Panchala king) went up to him along with Shikhandin, O great king. But he (the messenger) did not accept that homage, but said these words,

Which had been communicated by that warrior king, the golden-armored one. As I have been deceived, O you of vile conduct, by you daughter,

Receive, therefore, O wicked one, the (fruit) an account of the criminal act (of yours); give battle, O king, to me, on the field of battle, without delay.

I will forthwith slay your ministers, offspring and friends. The king having heard this, the result of that insult,

And being thus addressed by the king of Dasharna through his priest, in the presence of his ministers, Drupada assumed a tone of friendship, O best of Bharata's race.

What you have spoken, O Brahmana, according to the words of my kinsman (son's father-in-law) receive its reply, my messenger will give the answer to the king.

King Drupada then despatched a Brahmana messenger, versed in all the Vedas to the high-souled golden armored one.

Approaching the king, viz., the lord of the Dasharna land he gave the reply, O king, as it had been spoken, O king, by Drupada.

Make an enquiry and let this be made clear that this prince, is my son. You have been misinformation by some body; but this is surely unworthy of belief

Thereupon that king, hearing (the words ) of the Drupada, became dejected, and sent some choice, youthful ladies of great beauty to Shikhandin to ascertain whether he was a man or a woman.

Those ladies, who had been despatched, having learnt the truth, praised all about Shikhandin who was a man of great strength, O best of Kuru's race, to the king of the Dasharna country.

Having made this test, the king gladdened at heart, going up to his kinsman (his daughter's father-in-law) lived with him (some time) with gladness.

And that lord of men gave away with joy to Shikhandin great wealth, and elephants, horses and cattle and slaves also in large numbers.

And he departed, being worshipped after having rebuked his daughter. After the gladdened king with the golden Armour, on being pacified,

Had made his departure, Shikhandin was filled with joy for some time. After the lapse of a certain period, Kubera, who had been for his bearers, making a journey through the earth, came to the abode of Sthuna.

Moving to and fro over his abode, the protector of all wealth observed that the mansion of the Yaksha Sthuna was beautifully adorned with devise sorts of garlands;

And with fragrant roots (of plants) and scented with the smoke of sweet incense, and ornamented with banners and well supplied with food and drink.

Seeing that spot of his, ornamented in every way, and (everywhere filled with garlands of gems and precious stones and gold,

And breathing with the fragrance of various sorts of flowers, and looking beautiful being well-swept and watered, the lord of all Yakshas at length spoke to his attendant Yakshas.

This mansion of Sthuna is well-adorned, O you (followers) of immeasurable powers. Why does not this fool, however, approach me?

As this fool does not approach me, though knowing (that I am here), therefore he should be inflicted on a severe punishment. This is what I think.

The Yakshas said:
O king, a daughter was born to king Drupada, by name Shikhandin. For her sake, on some account, he has given away his manhood.

Having taken her womanhood (on himself) he remains in this abode, being a woman. He does not approach (you), bashful on account of her holding the form of a woman.

It is for this reason, O king, that Sthuna does not approach you today. Having (now) heard (this) do as it seems proper. "Let the car be stopped here."

"Let Sthuna be brought, I shall inflict punishment on him." Said thus the lord of the Yakshas again and again.

Being summoned, O lord of the earth, he came before the king of the Yakshas; and O great king, having the form of a female, he stood bashfully.

Then the giver of wealth crushed him in his anger, O descendant of Kuru's race, "even thus let the womanhood of this sinful one remain, O Guhyakas!"

And then that high-souled lord of Yakshas (again) said, “As you have humiliated all Yakshas by giving away your own sex of Shikhandin, O you of sinful understanding and by taking her female sex, O you of sinful deeds,"

As you have perpetrated this, O you of evil which had never understanding, been attempted by any one (before this), so from this day forth you shall remain a woman, and she a man.

The Yakshas then began to appease (the anger of) Vaishravana, for the sake of Sthuna Karna, (saying) "set a limit to your course" again and again.

Then that high-souled lord of the Yakshas, O son, answered his followers, all those Yakshas, with the desire of setting a limit to (his) curse.

On the death of Shikhandin O you Yakshas of high minds, he shall regain his own form. Therefore let the Yaksha Sthuna be free from anxiety.

Having thus spoken, that mighty god, king of the Yakshas, departed well honored, with all those followers, who traveled (a great distance) in a moment.

Sthuna, having received this curse, he stayed there. In due time Shikhandin came to that Rakshasa.

Approaching him, he said these words "I am come (to you) O god. “ Thereupon Sthuna said to him again and again, "I am pleased (with you)."

Seeing that prince Shikhandin come to him without guile, he related to Shikhandin everything as it had happened.

The Yaksha said:
It is not your fault, O princess, that I have (thus) been crushed by Vaishravana (but of my own destiny). Depart now according to your pleasure, and live with all happiness on this earth.

It is my belief that it was ordained before hand, and is incapable of being altered, viz., his coming here and my seeing Paulastya (the god of wealth).

Bhishma said:
Thus addressed by the Yaksha Sthuna Bharata, Shikhandin went back to the city filled with great joy.

And he worshipped with great sumptuousness and with scents and garlands of all sorts, all those of the twice-born, and the gods and the (sacred) trees and cross-ways.

And Drupada, the king of Panchalas, became exceedingly joyful, with his son Shikhandin who had obtained his desire and as well as with his friends.

And then he gave away to Drona as a disciple, O best of the race, his son Shikhandin, who had been before (this) a daughter, O king.

And the king's son, Shikhandin, obtained (the knowledge) of the science of arms with its four divisions (receiving, holding, using, and baffling weapons), as also yourselves and Dhrishtadyumna of Prishata's race.

To me however, my spies who had been set on Drupada by me, (in the guise of) being idiots, who were blind and deaf, related all things as they happened, O son.

In this way it is, O great king, that the son of Drupada is both a man and woman, and he was born as Shikhandin, O best of Kurus, and as the best of car-warriors.

(Thus it happened), O best among Bharata's race, that the eldest daughter of the king of Kashi, known by the name of Amba, is born in the family of Drupada as Shikhandin.

I will not look for a single moment nor even strike, though appearing before me with his bow in his hand with the desire of

This is the vow which I have taken for all time, and it is known to all the earth, that on women, or on those who had been women before, on those whose names were those of women, or even those whose appearance resembles that of a woman,

I will not let go my weapons, O son of Kuru's race, I will not, for this reason, slay this Shikhandin.

I know this truth about the birth of Shikhandin, O son, and therefore I will not slay him in any battle, through with weapon in his hand.

If Bhishma slays a woman, all right-minded men will censure him and therefore I will not slay him, even if I see him standing on the battle field.

Vaishampayana said:
On hearing this, king Duryodhana, a descendant of Kuru's race, having reflected for a moment, considered this to be fitting in Bhishma.

Sanjaya said:
When the night had dawned, your son again, in the midst of all the army, asked his Grandsire.

This army of the son of Pandu, O son of Ganga, ready for fight, abounding in men and elephants, and crowded with mighty chariot- warriors,

Protected by such great archers of mighty strength as Bhima and Arjuna, equal to the legends (of the worlds) and Dhrishtadyumna is its leader,

Which is incapable of being vanquished and irresistible and appearing like a raging ocean, this ocean of soldiers, incapable of being rifled even by the very gods in a mighty battle.

By what time, O son of Ganga, of great effulgence, can you annihilate and (in what time) the mighty archer (our preceptor) Drona or Kripa, of great strength.

Or Karna, who globes in battle, or that best of the twice-born, the son of Drona, (can destiny it)? You that are well versed in celestial weapons, are in my army.

I very much desire to know this have a mighty curiosity in my heart always (to know this). (O mighty-armed one,) it is met for you to tell me this.

Bhishma said:
This is, indeed, becoming just like yourself O best of Kurus, and O lord of the earth that you desire to know the strength and weakness of your enemies.

Hear therefore, O king, of my utmost power which I can exert in battle, both with reference to the power of my weapons in battle, and also that of my arms, O you of mighty arms.

Ordinary men ought to be fought without artifice, and with deceptive artifices one versed in them; this is the rule that has been settled.

O highly blessed one, I can slay the army of the Pandavas, by making a division of the day, and taking the morning each day for my share,

Ten thousand soldiers, by this division, O you of great effulgence, and of car-warriors, one thousand, this I think ( I can take as) my share.

According to this way, being always with my Armour, and always ( spending my time) in action, I can annihilate this huge army in a certain period, O Bharata.

But if I shoot my mighty weapons I can slay (at once) hundreds and thousands; being stationed in battle, I can slay (the army) in a month, O Bharata.

Sanjaya said:
Hearing these words of Bhishma king Duryodhana then asked Drona, the foremost of Angira's race, O great king,

“O preceptor, in what time can you annihilate the soldiers of the son of Pandu?" Drona replied to him, as if smilingly.

I am old and my energy and prowess of exertion have become weak, O mighty-armed one. I can consume this army of the Pandavas by the fire of my weapons,

Just like Bhishma, the son of Shantanu, by a month's time; so I think. This is my utmost power, this is my greatest strength.

Then Sharadvata's son, Kripa replied “In two month's time." And the son of Drona promised the destruction of the army in ten nights.

Karna, knowing as he did (the use of ) mighty weapons, promised it in five nights. Hearing those words of the son of Suta, the son of the ocean, going (Ganga),

Laughed an audible laugh, and spoke these words. “As long as the son of Pritha, holding his weapons and conch and bows in battle, You do not encounter, O son of Radha, coming as he does in battle, on his chariot guided by Vasudeva, so long can you think so. You indeed capable of saying anything again, even what you please.

Vaishampayana said:
Hearing this, the son of Kunti (Yudhishthira) summoned all his brothers. Having summoned (them), O best of the Bharata race, he spoke these words.

Yudhishthira said:
The spies, whom I have in the army of the son of Dhritarashtra, brought me this news when the night has passed away.

'Duryodhana asked the son of Ganga of high vows, “O lord ! in what time can you annihilate the army of the sons of Pandu?"

And the wicked son of Dhritarashtra was answered, "In a month." And in that same time Drona also has promised.

And we have heard that the son of Gautama has promised the same in double that time, and the son of Drona has promised (the same) in ten nights, acquainted as he is with mighty weapons.

Then Karna, who knows (the use of ) celestial weapons, being asked in the army of the Kurus, has pledged himself to slay us with our armies in five days.

On this account, I also desire, to hear your words, O Arjuna, in what time you are able to destroy our enemies, O Falguna.'

Thus addressed Dhananjaya, with thick hair, looking towards Vasudeva, spoke these words.

All these are high-minded heroes accomplished in arms, and capable of fighting in desire ways, and they can, no doubt O great king, slay us.

But let your mind be free from anxiety; I say truly that I can with the aid of Vasudeva, root out, on a single car,

The three words with all their celestial and all things movable, and all beings that were, or are to b, in the twinkling of an eye; such is what I think.

That terrible and mighty weapon which the lord of all gods bestowed on me in the combat hand-to-hand, with (Mahadeva in the guise of) a hunter, even that (weapon ) is with me.

That (weapon) which the lord of all gods uses when he annihilates all forms of existence, even that O best among men, is with me.

The son of Ganga does not know the (weapon), nor Drona, nor the son of Gautama, neither also the son of Drona ; O king, whence, then, can the son of Suta (know)?

It is not, however, proper to annihilate in a battle, by means of celestial weapons ordinary men. We will by artless fighting vanquish our foes.

Again, these foremost among men are your allies, O king. They are all acquainted with celestial weapons, and all of them, are desirous of battle.

All of them have performed sacrificial rites in company with their wives, after they had become versed respectively in Vedas, and have never been conquered. They can destroy the army of even the gods in battle, O son of Pandu.

And Shikhandin, Yuyudhana, and Dhrishtadyumna, of Prishata's race, and Bhimasena, and these twins, Yudhamanyu and Uttamaujas,

And both of them viz., Virata and Drupada, who are equal to Bhishma and Drona (respective) in battle, and the powerful Shankha and the son of Hidimba of great strength,

And his son Anjanaparva, of great strength and prowess, and the descendant of Shini's race, well versed in fighting, and who is your ally,

And the powerful Abhimanyu, and the five sons of Draupadi are also at your service. And you to are alone capable of annihilating even the three words.

O you of effulgence equal to Shakra (Indra), that person on whom you cast a look of anger, surely meets with death for it has been seen and so I know, O Kaurava.

Vaishampayana said:
Then, the next morning, when all was cloudy, all the kings, advanced against the son of Pandu, being excited by Duryodhana the son of Dhritarashtra.

And they were all purified by having bathed and (decked) with garlands, and clothed in white raiment's, And having taken their weapons, and raised banners they received the blessings, after the sacred fires had been lighted.

All of them were versed in the Vedas, and were powerful warriors, and all of them had always ably observed their vows, and all could do as they pleased, and all showed signs of having (previously) fought.

Desirous of earning for themselves regions of bliss in the next world, and in battle, might and strenght, they had their attention fixed and had faith in each other.

(First of all) Vinda and Anuvinda, both of Avanti, and the Kaikeyas with the Balhika's went out with Bharadvaja at their head.

Then (came) Ashvathama and the son of Shantanu, and Jayadratha of the Sindhu country, and those kings who came from the south and west and other mountainous territories.

And then the Gandharva king named Shakuni and all those who came from the east and north from all parts, and the Shakas, Kiratas, Yavanas, Shibis and the Vasatis,

All these with their respective forces, surrounded their Maharathas, and all the Maharathas went out in the second division of the army.

Then (came) Kritavarman with his forces, and the great car-warrior Trigarta, and king Duryodhana, surrounded by his brothers.

And Shalya and Brihadratha the monarch of the Kausalya, marched in the rear, led by the sons of Dhritarashtra.

And these followers of the great and mighty son of Dhritarashtra, uniting together according to the proper mode took up their station, all clad in Armour, on the back part of the plains of Kurukshetra.

And Duryodhana caused his camp to be so made, O Bharata, as to look like a second Hastinapur, well-ornamented.

And, O great king, even the clever men who lived in the city could not detect any distinguishing feature if their encampment from the city.

And the descendant of Kuru, a lord of the earth, caused camps similar to this, inaccessible (to others). to be made, by hundreds and thousands, for the kings.

That encampment of war stood on a circular area of five Yojanas. And into them, O king, he made soldiers with their horses &c., enter in groups of hundreds.

Therein those rulers of earth entered, according to their respective strength and prowess, in camps which abounded in things by thousands.

And king Duryodhana ordered provisions of the best kind for high-souled (warriors) with their forces, consisting of infantry.

And elephants, horses and other men. Those who lived by mechanical arts and those who followed them there as bards, singers and panegyrists.

And merchants and prostitutes and spies, and those who came as sight-seers, the Kuru king looked into (the needs of) all of them, with all proper care.

Vaishampayana said:
In the same way the virtuous king Yudhishthira, son of Kunti, urged the warriors headed by Dhrishtadyumna, O Bharata.

He ordered the leaders and commander of the Chedis, Kashis, and Karushas, Dhrishtaketu, of steady prowess, and the slayer of foes,

And Virata, and Drupada and Yuyudhana and Shikhandin, and the mighty archers, rulers of Panchalas, the two Yudhamanyu and Uttamaujas (to advance).

Those warriors, clad in variegated armours, and bearing golden ear-rings shone like clarified butter is poured (or them).

Those mighty archers shone beautiful like burning constellations. At length having paid due homage to the army, that best among men,

The ruler of the earth, ordered those forces to advance. And king Yudhishthira ordered for those high-souled (warriors) with forces, consisting of infantry.

Together with elephants and steeds and other followers, provisions of the best kind, as well as for those who lived by means of mechanical arts.

And the son of Pandu ordered Abhimanyu and Brihanta and all Draupadeyas, (the five sons of Draupadi), headed by Dhrishtadyumna, to advance.

And then he sent forth the second division of the army with Bhima, Yuyudhana and Dhananjaya, the son of Pandu.

And the noise of the warriors as they put on the equipment's of war, and moved and ran about, cheered as they were, reached the very heavens.

Last of all, that ruler of the earth himself went forth in the rear, with other rulers of the earth, accompanied by Virata and Drupada.

Then that army, of terrible archers commanded by Dhrishtadyumna, as it moved to and fro, looked like the full Ganga, silently rushing on.

Then the intelligent (Yudhishthira) again. arranged his troops (in a different order), confounding the knowledge of the sons of Dhritarashtra.

And the son of Pandu ordered the five sons of Draupadi who were mighty bowmen, and Abhimanyu Nakula and Sahadeva, and all the Prabhadraka, and ten thousand horses and elephants; and ten thousand foot-soldiers, and five hundred chariots, to be the first division of the army, under the irresistible Bhimasena. And the son of Pandu (ordered) in the middle (division of his army) Virata and Jayatsena,

And the two Maharathas, the ruler of Panchala, Yudhamanyu and Uttamaujas, who were high-souled (warriors) of great prowess holding clubs and bows.

And in this middle division followed Vasudeva and Dhananjaya. And these were men well-accomplished in arms, burning with anger.

Amongst them were twenty thousand horses ridden by brave warriors, and five thousand elephants and cars on all sides round.

Those warriors who composed the infantry, armed with bows, swords, and maces, followed by thousands in the vanguard, and thousands in the rear.

And in that part of that ocean of forces, where Yudhishthira himself (was), stationed a large number of rulers of the earth.

And in that part (were) thousands of elephants, and ten thousands of steeds, as well as thousands of cars and foot-soldiers O Bharata.

And Chekitana, with his own mighty force, O best among kings, and king Dhrishtaketu, the leader of the Chedis, marched forth.

And there (was) also Satyaki, that archer and the best of the car-warriors among the Vrishnis, surrounded by hundreds and thousands of chariots, and leading (them) forward, powerful as he was.

And those foremost among men, seated on their chariots, Kshatradeva and Brahmadeva, followed behind, protecting the rear.

And there were (in the rear ) carts shops, vehicles, and beast of burden of all kinds and thousands of elephants and ten thousands of steeds. And all the children and women, and those who were emaciated and weak.

And with the animals carrying his treasures, and his granaries and uniting all these by means of an army of elephants, king Yudhishthira slowly marched forward.

Him (Yudhishthira ) followed Suchitta, an unswerving adherent of truth, and who was invincible in battle, and Shrenimat and Vasudeva, and Vibhu, the son of the Kashis.

And they followed him, with twenty thousand chariots, and a hundred million steeds ( of that mighty army ) with great bells,

And twenty thousand elephants who smote with their tusks resembling plowshares all of good breed, and with spit temples and moving about like masses of clouds.

And besides these, O Bharata, thousand elephants which were in the seven divisions of the army of Yudhishthira in that battle,

With temporal juice flowing down and with the temples rent, followed the king like so many moving mountains.

Such was the terrible array of forces of that wise son of Kunti, relying on the help of which he fought with Suyodhana, the son of Dhritarashtra.

And above these, other men, by hundreds and thousands and tens of thousands of groups o thousands, followed their (sons of Pandu) forces, roaring loudly.

And those men by thousands and tens of thousand, filled with joy, beat their drums by thousands, and blew their conches by tens of thousands.

End of Amvopakkyana (Ambopakhyana) Parva

END OF UDYOGA PARVA

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