Section CIV - Sumukha's Marriage with Gunakesi: A Tale of Divine Blessings
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CIV 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:
Narada, a celestial sage, informs Aryaka about Matali, a charioteer and friend of Indra, who has a virtuous and powerful daughter named Gunakesi. Matali proposes Gunakesi as a bride for Aryaka's grandson, Sumukha, who has been selected for his merits and virtues. However, Aryaka is hesitant due to the impending threat of Sumukha's death at the hands of Garuda, who had already devoured his son.
Aryaka expresses his concerns to Narada, stating that despite the honor of an alliance with Matali, he fears for Sumukha's safety as Garuda had foretold his demise. Matali reassures Aryaka by suggesting a plan to seek the help of Indra in the matter, and they set off to meet the Lord of heaven. Upon reaching heaven, Vishnu intervenes and grants Sumukha immortality, ensuring his safety and blessing the union with Gunakesi.
Vishnu delegates the decision to grant immortality to Sumukha to Indra, who ultimately agrees to bestow the boon. This act solidifies Sumukha's marriage to Gunakesi, and filled with joy, the group returns home. Narada and Aryaka receive blessings from Indra before departing, their mission successful in securing a happy future for Sumukha and Gunakesi, overcoming the threat of Garuda's prophecy.
Full English translation:
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Section CIV, 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 CIV:
Who is Matali and why is he important?
Matali is the charioteer and friend of Indra, known for his strength and virtues. He plays a crucial role in battles and in resolving conflicts.
Why does Aryaka hesitate to accept Gunakesi for his grandson?
Aryaka is hesitant due to the instability caused by his son's death and the threat from Garuda to devour his grandson.
How does Vishnu intervene in Sumukha's fate?
Vishnu grants Sumukha immortality by giving him Amrita, with Indra also contributing to fulfilling Matali’s wish for his daughter's marriage.
Daily life: Sumukha's Marriage with Gunakesi: A Tale of Divine Blessings:
In the story, we see the importance of forming alliances and seeking guidance from those who are wiser and more experienced. Despite facing a dire threat, Aryaka and his grandson Sumukha were presented with an unexpected solution through the intervention of Matali and the celestial beings. This teaches us the value of openness to new opportunities and the willingness to seek help when facing difficult challenges.
The narrative also highlights the power of collective effort and goodwill. By bringing their problem to the attention of higher powers, Sumukha's family found a way to overcome obstacles, leading to a joyful resolution. This reminds us that sometimes, it's essential to look beyond our immediate capabilities and seek external support to navigate through life's trials.
Furthermore, the story underscores the importance of merit and virtue. Sumukha was chosen as a suitable groom not for his status or wealth, but for his virtues and the respectability of his lineage. This serves as a reminder that our character and the way we conduct ourselves significantly impact our lives and the opportunities that come our way.
In essence, this tale encourages us to embrace collaboration, seek wise counsel in times of adversity, and maintain a virtuous path. Through these principles, we can face life's challenges with a little more grace and find fulfilling solutions to our problems.