Section XV - Yudhishthira learns of Salva's siege on Dwaraka
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section XV 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:
Salva, after hearing about the death of Sisupala, besieged the city of Dwaravati in order to avenge him. The city was well-fortified with various defenses, including walls, turrets, miners, and weapons. The Vrishnis, including Gada, Shamva, and Uddhava, along with other warriors, defended the city with their lives. Ugrasena and Uddhava ensured that the residents remained sober and vigilant during the siege. The city was prepared for any attack, with bridges destroyed, trenches spiked, and combustibles hidden underground.
The Vrishnis and Andhakas made sure that nobody could enter or leave the city without presenting the agreed-upon sign. The streets were filled with elephants and horses, while the combatants were well-paid and well-equipped for battle. Dwaraka appeared like the city of Indra in its preparedness and defense against Salva's forces. The residents of the city were determined to protect it at all costs, showing their loyalty and bravery in the face of danger. Salva faced a formidable challenge in trying to conquer the well-defended city of Dwaraka.
Salva's forces engaged in a fierce battle with the defenders of Dwaraka, with a thick shower of weapons raining down on both sides. The combatants on both sides displayed their valor and skill in the midst of the intense fighting. The Vrishnis and Andhakas fought bravely to repel the enemy and protect their city from destruction. Salva, determined to take revenge for Sisupala's death, faced strong resistance from the defenders of Dwaraka. The battle between Salva's forces and the residents of Dwaraka raged on, with neither side willing to back down.
Despite the relentless attacks from Salva's forces, the defenders of Dwaraka held their ground and continued to fight with determination. The city's defenses proved to be effective against the onslaught of enemy weapons and troops. The Vrishnis and Andhakas, led by Ugrasena and Uddhava, showed great strength and resilience in the face of the enemy's superior numbers. The siege of Dwaraka was a test of the residents' loyalty, courage, and tactical skills in defending their city. The battle for Dwaraka became a symbol of the Vrishnis' unwavering determination to protect their home at all costs.
Full English translation:
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Section XV, 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 XV:
How did Salva besieged the city of Dwaravati?
Salva besieged the city with a thick shower of weapons from all sides, stationing his forces around and above the well-fortified city. The city was defended by numerous weapons, skilled warriors, and strategic preparations.
What measures were taken to defend Dwaraka from Salva?
The city was well-fortified with various defenses such as walls, turrets, barricaded streets, burning brand-hurling engines, and combatants. Bridges were destroyed, boats forbidden, and the land made uneven with hidden traps to deter the enemy.
How were the inhabitants of Dwaraka prepared for the siege?
The Vrishnis and Andhakas remained sober and vigilant, drove out non-essential personnel, and issued strict orders to prevent carelessness. All combatants were well-equipped, well-paid, and ready for battle, making the city resemble Indra's abode in strength and readiness.
Daily life: Yudhishthira learns of Salva's siege on Dwaraka:
The story describes the defense of a city under siege, focusing on preparedness, unity, vigilance, strategic fortification, and reward for service. In daily life, this narrative can inspire us to anticipate challenges and prepare adequately for them, ensuring we're equipped to face life’s uncertainties with resilience. It teaches the importance of unity and collective effort, emphasizing how working together can create an impenetrable front against adversities. By being vigilant and alert to our surroundings, we can prevent carelessness that often leads to failure or harm.
The concept of strategically fortifying ourselves involves not just physical defenses but mental and emotional ones as well, learning from experiences and building on our strengths to withstand life's trials. Just as the city rewarded its defenders, recognizing and rewarding our own efforts, and those of the people who support us, boosts morale and encourages continuous growth and loyalty. This story, therefore, not only highlights the significance of preparation, unity, vigilance, and strategic fortification but also the value of recognizing contributions, underscoring a holistic approach to tackling challenges in daily life.