Section CLXVIII [summary]
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLXVIII 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:
The story narrates the birth and upbringing of Drona, the son of the Rishi Bharadvaja. Drona studied under Rama and received powerful weapons, including the Brahma weapon. He then approached King Drupada for friendship but was rejected due to their different social statuses. In retaliation, Drona trained the Pandava princes and tasked them with capturing and dividing Drupada's kingdom. Drupada, defeated and humiliated, ultimately reconciled with Drona, establishing eternal friendship between them. However, the memory of the humiliation continued to weigh heavily on Drupada's heart.
Full English translation:
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Section CLXVIII, 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 Section CLXVIII:
What was the significance of Drona obtaining Rama's weapons?
Drona gained a decided superiority over all men with the Brahma weapon. He became exceedingly glad and acquired great prowess.
How did Drona humiliate King Drupada?
He trained the Pandavas in arms and then demanded Drupada's kingdom as a preceptorial fee. The Pandavas defeated Drupada in battle and offered him to Drona.
Did Drona and King Drupada reconcile after the humiliation?
Yes, they established eternal friendship after Drona expressed his desire for it, and they parted ways amicably.
Mahabharata Section CLXVIII in daily life:
The story tracks the journey of Drona, from his unconventional birth to becoming a revered teacher, and his complex relationship with King Drupada. From their childhood friendship that turned sour due to societal and ego-driven reasons, to Drona's strategic comeback for respect and equality, it's a narrative rich with lessons on human emotions and societal constructs. Implementing this story in daily life involves understanding the importance of humility and respect in human relationships, regardless of one's background or social standing. It also teaches the value of perseverance and wisdom in achieving one's goals, as seen through Drona's intelligence and tactical thinking.
Furthermore, the story highlights the toxicity of harboring grudges and the negative impact they have on one’s well-being, as illustrated by King Drupada's inability to let go of his humiliation, which ultimately consumes him. Therefore, it encourages the fostering of positive relationships, the practice of forgiveness, and the pursuit of personal growth and reconciliation. In essence, the tale serves as a reminder that one's actions, driven by either vengeance or kindness, have lasting impacts on not only the individuals involved but also on broader relationships and societal dynamics.