Section CL - Escape of the Pandavas: Setting Fire to Purocana's House
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CL including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
After living in Purocana's house for a year, the Pandavas decided it was time to escape. During an almsgiving event, Kunti invited a Nishada woman and her intoxicated children to feast at their house. That night, Bhima set fire to the house where Purocana was sleeping, burning him to death. The Pandavas then escaped through a secret underground passage as the citizens of Varanavata mourned the tragedy.
The citizens blamed Purocana for building the house with the intention of harming the Pandavas. They lamented the injustice of the situation and criticized Dhritarashtra for his partiality. The people believed that fate had led to Purocana's own demise, as he had attempted to harm the innocent heirs of Pandu.
Despite the chaos and sorrow surrounding the burning house, the Pandavas managed to escape unnoticed. Bhima carried his mother and brothers on his back, swiftly fleeing through the darkness. His immense strength and speed allowed them to push through the obstacles in their path, breaking trees and pressing deep into the earth. And with determination and fear driving them, the Pandavas successfully fled from Varanavata and the dangers that threatened them.
Full English translation:
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Section CL, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CL:
How did the Pandavas escape from Purocana's burning house?
The Pandavas escaped by setting the house on fire and fleeing through a secret passage while the townspeople were asleep. Bhima carried his family members to safety.
Why did the citizens of Varanavata blame Dhritarashtra for the fire?
The citizens believed Dhritarashtra was biased towards the wicked Purocana, who had built the house to harm the Pandavas. They thought Dhritarashtra indirectly caused the tragedy by supporting Purocana.
How did Bhima demonstrate his strength during the escape?
Bhima carried his mother and brothers through the darkness, breaking trees and pressing the earth with his strength and speed like the wind. He showed his incredible power and determination.
Daily life: Escape of the Pandavas: Setting Fire to Purocana's House:
The story captures a dramatic escape of the Pandavas and their mother, Kunti, from a burning house of lac, exemplifying resourcefulness, unity, and perseverance. In our daily lives, this can translate into facing adversities with courage and cleverness, planning meticulously for any challenges that might come our way. It underscores the importance of staying vigilant and not letting down our guard even when things seem calm, as situations can change rapidly.
By working together as a team, much like the Pandavas did, we can overcome obstacles more efficiently. This story shows us that in times of crisis, having the presence of mind and the ability to act swiftly could be lifesaving. The act of Bhima carrying his family to safety is a powerful metaphor for shouldering responsibilities and ensuring the well-being of our loved ones through thick and thin.
Moreover, the narrative instills in us the value of not underestimating the power of sacrifice and the lengths we might need to go to protect our family and our integrity. It reminds us that oftentimes, survival and success require not just physical strength, but also moral courage and a clear sense of right and wrong. Lastly, despite the harshness of the situation, the Pandavas’ story is a testament to hope and the belief that it is possible to emerge victorious even from the direst circumstances.