Offence-The Best Defence

A torch to the sun

Yudhishtira, the personification of dharma was delivered a message on ‘dharma’ carefully worded by Dhritrashtra, the epitome of adharma.

The message:

“O Yudhishtira, you are a good man. Please opt for peace. What good will come from war? Opting for war would mean inevitable destruction and losses on both sides. Choosing this option does not befit you. Give up the idea of war for the welfare of the world. The Kaurava army has stalwarts like Bheeshma, Drona, Kripa, Ashwathama... therefore think twice!

It is better to sacrifice one’s rights or even give up one’s life for the sake of family and for the greater good.

You may defeat the Kauravas, but you will only be filled with remorse and sorrow. The victory over the Kauravas will grant you neither fame nor peace. Killing the Kauravas will yield the transient pleasure of becoming a ruler, but you cannot escape regret, old age and death.

It is true that my sons will not yield... but life is short. Use this time well to live, untainted by sin and infamy, either with the Vrishnis or in the forests. Have the twelve years in the forests not taught you to conquer your craving for material wealth? Give up your desire for the kingdom and concentrate on earning merit for your after-life.

You are known for your patience. Thirteen years ago, when the ‘so-called injustice’ was meted to you, everyone urged you to retaliate but you chose not to. Now, after all these years (lulling us into a false sense of complacency) you are up in arms and seem to be keen on fighting. This is uncharacteristic of you and does not behove you. Continue to exhibit your famed patience.

My son is obstinate, but you are good men... please let go of your stake, prevent blood-shed and live in peace.”

Yudhistira’s firmness

In a rare display of agitation, Yudhistira declared, “If Dhritrashtra acts and behaves like a father, we too will behave as dutiful sons. If he acts like we are outsiders and his enemies (like he always has), we are ready for war!”

“Let Dhritrashtra be prepared for the consequences of his choices – of being unjust, of ignoring Vidura’s counsel, of abandoning dharma for his greed... When Vidura advised Dhritrashtra to stop the game of dice, he turned a deaf ear, but his eager question, “Who won?” every time the dice were rolled, rang through the court, revealing his undisguised interest in our loss.”

“Krishna will decide the future course of our action, as he always has. I will abide by whatever he says...” concluded Yudhishtira.

To be continued...