Epic Kurukshetra: The Clash of Dynasties || Bhagavad Gita: Chapter - 01, Verse - 01
Channel: The Blooming Soul
Date: 2023-09-17

In this captivating video, we dive deep into the grandeur of the ancient Kurukshetra battle, as depicted in the Mahabharata. Join us as we examine the pivotal question asked by the wise Dhritarashtra, and unravel its significance in the epic narrative. Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, we explore the profound themes of power, righteousness, and destiny. Prepare to be enthralled by the legendary characters and the moral dilemma they face. Don't miss this chance to deepen your understanding of the Mahabharata and gain valuable insights into life's biggest questions. Like, share, and embark on this incredible journey with us!

00:00:00
Introduction

00:00:19
The Conflict

00:00:39
Dhritarashtra's Inquiry

00:00:55
The Armies

00:01:11
Arjuna's Dilemma

00:01:37
Arjuna's Resolve

00:01:54
Lessons from the Battle

00:02:12
The Eternal Battle

00:02:29
The Final Message

00:02:35
End Sting

Story:
The two armies had gathered on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, well prepared to fight a war that was inevitable. Still, in this verse, King Dhritarashtra asked Sanjay, what his sons and his brother Pandu’s sons were doing on the battlefield? It was apparent that they would fight, then why did he ask such a question?

The blind King Dhritarashtra’s fondness for his own sons had clouded his spiritual wisdom and deviated him from the path of virtue. He had usurped the kingdom of Hastinapur from the rightful heirs; the Pandavas, sons of his brother Pandu. Feeling guilty of the injustice he had done towards his nephews, his conscience worried him about the outcome of this battle.

The words dharma kṣhetre, the land of dharma (virtuous conduct) used by Dhritarashtra depict the dilemma he was experiencing.  Kurukshetra is described as kurukṣhetraṁ deva yajanam in the Shatapath Brahman, the Vedic textbook detailing rituals. It means “Kurukshetra is the sacrificial arena of the celestial gods.” Hence, it was regarded as the sacred land that nourished dharma. 

Dhritarashtra feared that the holy land might influence the minds of his sons. If it aroused the faculty of discrimination, they might turn away from killing their cousins and negotiate a truce. A peaceful settlement meant that the Pandavas would continue being a hindrance for them. He felt great displeasure at these possibilities, instead preferred that this war transpires. He was uncertain of the consequences of the war, yet desired to determine the fate of his sons. Therefore, he asked Sanjay about the activities of the two armies on the battleground.