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कर्णपर्वन् (karNaparvan)

 
Monier Williams Cologne
English
कर्ण—पर्वन्
n.
N.
 of the eighth book of the Mahābhārata.
Shabdartha Kaustubha
Kannada
कर्णपर्वन्
पदविभागः - > नपुंसकलिङ्गः
कन्नडार्थः - > ಮಹಾಭಾರತದ ೮ನೆಯ ಪರ್ವ /ಕರ್ಣನ ಪರಾಕ್ರಮವನ್ನೂ ಸಾಹಸಕೃತ್ಯಗಳನ್ನೂ ವರ್ಣಿಸುವ ಮಹಾಭಾರತದ ಒಂದು ಭಾಗ
Mahabharata
English
Karṇaparvan (“the section relating to Karṇa, ” the 8th of the greater and the 79th of the minor parvans of Mhbhr.). § 4 (Anukram.): I, 1, 90 (ºsitaiḥ pushpaiḥ).-§ 10 (Parvas.): I, 2, 346.--§ 11 (do.): I, 2, 542, 549.-§ 604{??} THE NIGHT AFTER DROṆA'S DEATH, AND THE SIXTEENTH MORNING, AND BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE SIXTEENTH AND SEVENTEENTH DAYS. After Droṇa's death the Kuru warriors in grief, with Duryodhana at their head, repaired to Aśvatthāman. When night came (!) they proceeded to their tents, but could not sleep ()
they () passed that night together in Duryodhana's tent, reflecting (). When morning came they rose and performed their customary rites. Arranging their troops they proceeded to battle, making Karṇa their leader. The Pāṇḍavas also proceeded to battle. Karṇa fought for two days and was then slain by Arjuna. Sañjaya repaired to Hāstinapura and informed Dhṛtarāshṭra of Karṇa's fall. Janamejaya inquired about Dhṛtarāshṭra and the details of the battle (VIII,
1). Vaiśampāyana said: After the fall of Karṇa, Sañjaya set out that night for Hāstinapura and spoke with Dhṛtarāshṭra () (VIII, 2). Sañjaya related the discouragement of the Kuru army after the fall of Droṇa
Duryodhana's spirited address
Karṇa was made generalissimo but slain by Arjuna on the second day () (VIII, 3). Hearing of Karṇa's fall in battle, Dhṛtarāshṭra swooned away
he and the ladies were restored to their senses
Dhṛtarāshṭra inquired whether Duryodhana was still alive
Sañjaya informed him of Duḥśāsana's slaughter () (VIII, 4). Requested by Dhṛtarāshṭra, Sañjaya recounted the names of those that had fallen and those that were still alive
Dhṛtarāshṭra once more swooned away () (VIII, 5--7). Dhṛtarāshṭra's lament for Karṇa () (VIII, 8)
Sañjaya endeavoured to comfort him
continuation of Dhṛtarāshṭra's lament () (VIII, 9).--§ 605. THE SIXTEENTH DAY: After Droṇa's fall the Kauravas, having fled and been rallied by Duryodhana, fought for a long time with the Pāṇḍavas (Arjuna). On the approach of the evening twilight(!) the Kauravas retired to their encampment
they held a consultation in the night
Duryodhana inquired of his counsellors as to what should next be done. Aśvatthāman suggested the installation of Karṇa as generalissimo (). Duryodhana offered Karṇa the command, which Karṇa accepted, promising to slay the Pāṇḍavas (). Karṇa was installed in the command and blessed by the brahmans, and ordered the troops to be arrayed at the rise of the sun () (VIII, 10). Beholding Karṇa, none recked the loss of Bhīshma or Droṇa, etc. He formed a makara array: the tip (), the two eyes (), the head (), the neck (), the middle (), the left foot (), the right foot (), the left hind-foot (), the right hind-foot (), the tail (). Yudhishṭhira asked Arjuna to array the Pāṇḍava army and slay Karṇa (“incapable of being vanquished by…D., As., G., K., and M.-U.”). The Pāṇḍava troops were arrayed in the shape of the half-moon
the left side (), the right side (), the middle (), the rear ()
Yudhāmanyu and Uttamaujas became the protectors of Arjuna's chariot wheels, and did not quit him for a moment. Then commenced the battle (VIII, 11). A fierce slaughter on both sides (description). Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), headed by Bhīmasena & Kshemadhūrti (Kulūtādhipatiḥ), who was slain by Bhīmasena. The Kurus fled away (VIII, 12). Nakula & Karṇa
Bhīmasena & Aśvatthāman
Sātyaki & the Kaikaya princes (brothers) Vinda and Anuvinda
King Citrasena & Śrutakarman
Prativindhya & Citra
Duryodhana & Yudhishṭhira
Arjuna & the Saṃśaptakas
Dhṛshṭadyumna & Kṛpa
Śikhaṇḍin & Kṛtavarman
Śrutakīrti & Śalya
Sahadeva & Duḥśāsana. Anuvinda was slain by Sātyaki, and so was Vinda
Sātyaki got upon the chariot of Yudhāmanyu, then upon another chariot
the Kaikeyas fled (VIII, 13). Śrutakarman & the Abhisāra king Citrasena, whom he slew and then he pursued his flying troops. Prativindhya & Citra, whom he slew. The Kurus fled
only Aśvatthāman & Bhīmasena (VIII, 14)
Si., Cā., D., and M.-ṛ., applauded them
both were borne away insensible by their drivers (VIII, 15). Arjuna & the Saṃśaptakas
Si., D.-ṛ., and Cā. applauded him, etc. Aśvatthāman & Arjuna (+ Kṛshṇa), who fought also the Saṃśaptakas (VIII, 16)
the Kaliṅga, Vaṅga, and Nishāda heroes attacked Arjuna with a division of elephants, which was broken
Kṛshṇa urged Arjuna not to spare Aśvatthāman, who at last was borne away by his steeds and entered the army of Karṇa
Kṛshṇa and Arjuna proceeded towards the Saṃśaptakas (VIII, 17). The Magadha chief (lord of Girivraja) Daṇḍadhāra massacred the Pāṇḍava army. Arjuna (urged by Kṛshṇa) & Daṇḍadhāra (on an elephant), whom he slew
his brother Daṇḍa & Arjuna (+ Kṛshṇa), who slew him
the hostile force broke up: Arjuna proceeded once more against the Saṃśaptakas (VIII, 18), whom he slaughtered
Ugrāyudha's son & Arjuna, who slew him
urged by Kṛshṇa, Arjuna smote the remnant of the Saṃśaptakas, hastening in order to kill Karṇa
Kṛshṇa described the dismal sights of the field of battle “for the sake of Duryodhana alone”. The army of Duryodhana was defeated by Pāṇḍya (VIII, 19), who regarded himself as superior to Bhīshma, etc. (), and was slaughtering the army of Karṇa, the Pulindas, etc. ()
Aśvatthāman & Pāṇḍya (b), who employed the Vāyavya weapon
mean while Karṇa began to rout the elephant force of the Pāṇḍavas
Pāṇḍya ascended a riderless elephant and split Aśvatthāman's diadem
then Aśvatthāman slew him, who had given numerous steeds, men, and elephants as food to the Rā. Duryodhana and his brothers worshipped Karṇa (VIII, 20). Kṛshṇa said to Arjuna that he did not see Yudhishṭhira
the Pāṇḍavas had retreated, and Karṇa was slaying the Sṛñjayas. The Kurus (headed by Karṇa) & the Pāṇḍavas (headed by Bhīmasena)
Karṇa caused a great carnage among the Pāṇḍavas, Sṛñjayas, and Pāñcālas. The Pāñcāla chief, etc. (), & Karṇa (VIII, 21)
Dhṛshṭadyumna & the Aṅgas, etc. ()
the Pāṇḍavas and the Pāñcālas come to the aid of Dhṛshṭadyumna
Nakula, etc. (), overloaded the elephants with their weapons
Sātyaki killed the elephant of the Vaṅga king and felled the rider
Sahadeva & Puṇḍra, whose elephant he slew, and then proceeded towards the Aṅga chief
Nakula & the Aṅga king (Mleccha king), whom he slew
the elephant-men of the Aṅgas + Mekalas, etc. (), & Nakula
then the Pāṇḍavas, etc. (), rushed to the rescue of Nakula
Sahadeva slew eight elephants and Nakula many
Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), overloaded the elephants with arrows
the hostile army fled away and the Pāṇḍava warriors rushed against Karṇa (VIII, 22). Sahadeva & Duḥśāsana, who was taken away by his charioteer
Sahadeva crushed Duryodhana's division (VIII, 23). Karṇa & Nakula
both the Somakas and Kurus were greatly afflicted
Nakula fled on foot
Karṇa pursued him and placed his stringed bow around his neck, but let him escape, recollecting the words of Kuntī
Nakula in great shame proceeded towards Yudhishṭhira's chariot, which he ascended. Karṇa at noon made a great slaughter among the Pāñśālas and the Sṛñjayas, and pursued them (VIII, 24). Ulūka & Yuyutsu, who was vanquished and mounted another chariot. Ulūka slaughtered the Pāñcālas and the Sṛñjayas. Śrutakarman (Dhārtarāshṭra) & Śatānīka
both were deprived of their chariots and retired
Śrutakarman mounted the chariot of Viviṃśa, Śatānīka that of Prativindhya. Śakuni & Sutasoma, who was deprived of his chariot, but contended on foot with Śakuni, who fought from his chariot
the Si., etc., were highly pleased
Sutasoma went to the chariot of Śrutakīrti
Śakuni slew many of the Pāṇḍava army (VIII, 25). Kṛpa & Dhṛshṭadyumna, who got bewildered and let his charioteer carry him to Bhīmasena, pursued by Kṛpa. Kṛtavarman (the Bhoja king) & Śikhaṇḍin, who fell into a swoon, and was borne away by his charioteer
the Pāṇḍava army fled (VIII, 26). Arjuna & the Trigartas, etc. ()
Arjuna slew king Śatruñjaya, and Suśruta's son, and Candradeva
King Satyasena wounded Kṛshṇa and was slain by Arjuna, who then slew Citravarman and the Saṃśaptakas in hundreds and thousands, and Mitrasena, and wounded Suśarman
all the Saṃśaptakas attacked Arjuna, who invoked the Aindra weapon (description)
the hostile army fled away almost entirely (VIII, 27). Duryodhana & Yudhishṭhira, who deprived him of his chariot
Karṇa, etc. (), rushed to his aid
the other sons of Pāṇḍu surrounded Yudhishṭhira
the Pāñcālas & the Kauravas (description)
Karṇa slaughtered the Pāñcālas, Arjuna the Trigartas, Bhīmasena the Kurus and their elephant division, when the sun had passed the meridian (VIII, 28)
Duryodhana (on another chariot) & Yudhishṭhira
Duryodhana swooned away
Bhīmasena prevented Yudhishṭhira from slaying Duryodhana
Kṛtavarman & Bhīmasena in the afternoon (VIII, 29). The Kurus (placing Karṇa at their van) & the Pāṇḍava army (and Sātyaki)
Karṇa & Sātyaki
many Kurus came to rescue Karṇa, but fled away before the Pāṇḍavas, who were headed by the sons of Drupada
Arjuna and Kṛshṇa (having said their daily prayers and worshipped Bhava) destroyed the Kurus
Duryodhana & Arjuna
Arjuna & Aśvatthāman + Kṛpa, etc. ()
Sātyaki, etc. (), & Karṇa, who vanquished them
Arjuna & Karṇa
many Kurus fled away. At the close of the day both armies withdrew
Rā. and Pś., etc., appeared (VIII, 30). Dhṛtarāshṭra exalted the prowess of Arjuna (). The Kurus, in grief, took counsel of one another
Karṇa assured Duryodhana that he would slay Arjuna on the morrow. On the morrow they beheld an invincible array formed by Yudhishṭhira according to the rules of Bṛhaspati and Uśanas. Duryodhana and his troops put confidence in Karṇa. Dhṛtarāshṭra's grief ()
Sañjaya rebuked him by reminding him of his evil acts (). At dawn Karṇa repeated before Duryodhana his pledge to slaughter Arjuna
“my bow Vijaya (c) is the foremost of all weapons
…Arjuna is superior to me only by having Kṛshṇa (‘the Creator of the Universe’) for his charioteer, the chariot given him by Agni, his steed, and his standard with the Ape.” He desired to have Śalya (“who is superior to Kṛshṇa”) to drive his chariot
Duryodhana solicited Śalya (VIII, 31) to comply with Karṇa's wishes ()
Śalya took offence at the proposal ()
Duryodhana repeated his request in honorific words (), and Śalya accepted on the condition that he might in Karṇa's presence, utter whatever he desired () (VIII, 32). § 606: Duryodhana related to Śalya Tripurākhyāna (q.v.), which the great Ṛ. Mārkaṇḍeya had narrated to his father. “As Brahmán, …the Supreme Deity acted as the driver of Rudra, so do thou restrain the steeds of Karṇa” (VIII, 33). He then related a story of Paraśu-Rāma (b), which a virtuous brahman had recited in the presence of his father. Rāma gave the Dhanurveda to Karṇa, “whom I do not think to have been born in the Sūta order, but to be the son of a god, born in the Kshatriya order and abandoned in infancy” (VIII, 34). Duryodhana said: “So did Brahman act as Rudra's driver
the driver should be superior to the warrior
thou art selected by us as superior to Karṇa.” Śalya said that many a time he had heard this history recited to him, and Kṛshṇa, knowing the same, had become the charioteer of Arjuna, and would fight if Arjuna were slain. Duryodhana eulogized Karṇa () and then Śalya (etymology) as superior to Kṛshṇa. Śalya repeated his promise and condition. Duryodhana embraced Karṇa, and, requested by him, once more obtained the promise of Śalya, who embraced Duryodhana and asked their forgiveness for the words he might speak to Karṇa for his good
“what I shall say, in order to inspire thee confidence, is fraught with self-adulation
I am a driver like Mātali himself” (VIII, 35). --§ 607: Duryodhana said to Karṇa: “Śalya, who is superior to Kṛshṇa, will act as a driver, like Mātali to Indra.” When the morning came, Duryodhana again successfully asked Śalya to become Karṇa's charioteer. Karṇa having worshipped the chariot (which had in days of old been sanctified by a priest), they both ascended it. Duryodhana once more addressed Karṇa (). Karṇa told Śalya to urge the steeds that he might slay Arjuna, etc. ()
Śalya endeavoured to inspire Karṇa with fear by eulogizing the Pāṇḍavas (VIII, 36). When Karṇa set out there appeared ill omens. The Kuru army, however, was filled with joy. Karṇa reflected and boasted (). Śalya ridiculed him and praised Arjuna (). Karṇa proceeded on his chariot with white steeds and tiger-skins, slaying large numbers in battle along his way, and inquired after Arjuna (VIII, 37), promising every Pāṇḍava soldier that he met that unto him who pointed out Arjuna to him he would give whatever wealth he desired. Duryodhana and the troops rejoiced
Śalya scornfully laughed, and said (VIII, 38) that Karṇa would get to see Arjuna without the trouble of seeking him, and asked him to abandon his desire for a single combat with Arjuna. Karṇa repeated his resolution, and Śalya insulted him in a long speech (VIII, 39). Karṇa replied angrily, describing the disreputable practices of the Madrakas (and the Gāndhārakas and Sindhu-Sauvīras) (VIII, 40). Śalya answered by praising himself and his accomplishments as a charioteer (description), and by reciting the story of the crow and the swan (Haṃsakākīyopākhyāna, q.v.): “Even as that crow, fed upon the remains of the dinners of the Vaiśya children, disregarded his equals and superiors, so dost thou, that art fed by the sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra upon the remains of their dishes, disregard all, ” etc. () (VIII, 41). Karṇa said that Kṛshṇa and Arjuna were well known to him, but did not make him afraid. The curse, however, of [Paraśu-]Rāma pained him greatly. He dwelt, disguised as a brahman, with Rāma in former days, desirous of obtaining celestial weapons from him. Indra, as a worm, began to pierce his thigh, on which was lying the head of the sleeping Rāma
therefore he did not move. But Rāma, witnessing his patience, discovered that he was not a brahman, and cursed him, saying that this weapon would never, in the time of need, when the hour of his death came, occur to his memory. He had forgotten the weapon, but would, notwithstanding, slay Arjuna
he suspected Śalya of secret friendship with the Pāṇḍavas
he would employ the Brāhma weapon, which Arjuna would never be able to escape, if only the wheels of Karṇa's chariot did not sink into the earth that day
he would not take fright at Yama himself with his rod, or Varuṇa with his noose, or Kubera with his mace, or Indra with the thunderbolt. “Once upon a time, while wandering for the sake of practising with my bow Vijaya, I had heedlessly struck the calf of a brahman's homa cow
the brahman cursed me, saying that my wheel would sink into the earth in a battle when I was in great danger. The kings of the Lunar race offered to give that brahman 1, 000 kine and 600 bulls, but in vain, ” etc. (VIII, 42). Karṇa said that it was in vain that Śalya tried to frighten him () (VIII, 43). Karṇa said that in Dhṛtarāshṭra's abode the brahmans used to give accounts of various delightful regions and many kings of ancient times
an old brahman had said, blaming the Madrakas and the Bāhīkas, that they should be avoided as being out of the pale of virtue and living away from Himavat, etc. (), but between Sindhu and its tributary rivers. On some very secret mission Karṇa had to live among the Bāhīkas, and therefore their conduct was well known to him
“there is a town Śākala, a river Āpagā, and a Bāhīka clan Jarttikas
the practices of these people are very censurable” (description
an example is cited of a Bāhīka who happened to live for some days in Kurujāṅgala, and a Rā. woman in Śākala
the rivers Śatadru, etc. (), in the countries of the Āraṭṭas, regions without virtue and religion). “D., P., and brahmans never accept gifts from those that are fallen, or those that are begotten by Śūdras on the girls of other castes, or the Bāhīkas, who never perform sacrifices and are exceedingly irreligious.” He mentioned three impure places () (v. the note of PCR., p. 155). There were two Piśācas in the river Vipāśā, named Bahi and Hīka
the Bāhīkas are the offspring of those two Pś.
they are not creatures created by the Creator. The Kārashkaras, etc. (), and other peoples of no religion one should always avoid
even thus did a Ṛā. woman speak to a brahman who went to that country for bathing in sacred water and passed a single night there. The regions are called Āraṭṭāḥ, the water Bāhīka
the lowest brahmans have resided there from very remote times (brāhmaṇāpasadā yatra tulyakālāḥ Prajāpateḥ), without the Vedas, etc. The Prasthalas, etc. (), are almost as blameable in their practices (VIII, 44). Karṇa continued his description of the Bāhīkas (and Gāndhāras and Madrakas). The Āraṭṭas had been cursed by a chaste woman. The Kauravas, etc. (), know what the eternal religion is. Brahmán, even in the Kṛta age, had censured the practices of the country of the five rivers. K. quoted a saying of the Rā. Kalmāshapāda, declared by the Rākshasa to be the formula for curing a person possessed by a Rā. or killed by poison. Remarks on the Pāñcālas, etc. (), on Agni, etc. (). Śalya spoke in disparagement of the Aṅgas (). Duryodhana restored peace between Karṇa and Śalya (VIII, 45).--§ 608: THE SEVENTEENTH DAY'S BATTLE. Beholding the array of the Pārthas made by Dhṛshṭadyumna, Karṇa proceeded to battle and assailed Yudhishṭhira. Dhṛtarāshṭra inquired about the disposition of the Kuru forces (). Sañjaya described the Kaurava array: right wing ()
on the right of these ()
the left side ()
on their left ()
in the centre at the head Karṇa with his sons
in the rear Duḥśāsana
and behind him Duryodhana and his brothers, protected by the united Madrakas and Kekayas
Aśvatthāman, etc., with Mlecchas on elephants followed behind. The array was formed according to the plan of Bṛhaspati. Yudhishṭhira, beholding Karṇa, spoke to Arjuna of the hostile array: Arjuna should proceed against Karṇa
Bhīmasena against Duryodhana
Nakula against Vṛshasena
Sahadeva against Śakuni
Śatānīka against Duḥśāsana
Sātyaki against Kṛtavarman
Pāṇḍya against Aśvatthāman
Yudhishṭhira against Kṛpa
the Draupadeyas with Śikhaṇḍin against the rest of the Dhārtarāshṭras, etc. Śalya pointed out to Karṇa the chariot of Arjuna (b) and various omens, etc. ()
how the Saṃśaptakas threatened to slay Arjuna and the other heroes of the Pāṇḍava army (), and he dissuaded him from trying to slay Arjuna. Meanwhile the two armies mingled fiercely in battle (VIII, 46). Dhṛtarāshṭra asked Sañjaya about Arjuna, the Saṃśaptakas, and Karṇa. Sañjaya related: Arjuna arrayed his troops, headed by Dhṛshṭadyumna (with steeds white as pigeons)
by the side of Dhṛshṭadyumna the Draupadeyas. Arjuna & the Saṃśaptakas. The Pāñcālas, etc. (), & the Kurus
Kṛpa, etc. (), & the Kośalas, etc. ()
the battle became conducive to fame, heaven, and virtue for the kshatriya, vaiśya, and śūdra heroes that engaged in it. Duryodhana, etc. () + Karṇa & the Pāṇḍavas, etc. ()
Karṇa harassed Yudhishṭhira
fierce battle between the Kurus and the Sṛñjayas (VIII, 47). Dhṛtarāshṭra inquired about the particulars of Karṇa's encounter with Yudhishṭhira. Sañjaya related: Karṇa attacked the Pāñcālas (and Prabhadrakas and Cedis) and made a great slaughter
among others he slew the five Pāñcālas Bhānudeva, etc. (). The protectors of Karṇa's chariot-wheels were his sons Susheṇa and Satyasena, and his eldest son Vṛshasena protected his rear. Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), & Karṇa + Karṇa's sons
Susheṇa & Bhīmasena, who pierced him with seventy arrows and then slew Karṇa's son Bhānusena
Bhīmasena & Kṛpa, etc. ()
Bhīmasena & Susheṇa + Karṇa
Susheṇa & Nakula + Sahadeva
Sātyaki & Vṛshasena, who was taken up by Duḥśāsana on the latter's chariot, borne away, and caused to ride in another chariot
Vṛshasena & the Draupadeyas, etc. ()
Yuyudhāna & Duḥśāsana, whom he deprived of his chariot, etc., but who got another chariot and fought from within the division of Karṇa
Karṇa & Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. ()
at last Karṇa's assailants gave way
Karṇa & Yudhishṭhira + the Cedis, etc. () (VIII, 48)
the Drāviḍas, etc. (), & Karṇa, who crushed them
Karṇa & Yudhishṭhira, etc. ()
Yudhishṭhira addressed Karṇa in rage ()
Karṇa swooned away, but recovered and slew Yudhishṭhira's wheel-protectors, the Pāñcāla princes Candradeva and Daṇḍadhāra
Yudhishṭhira struck Susheṇa and Satyasena, etc.
Sātyaki, etc. (), & Karṇa, who invoked the Brāhma weapon
Karṇa deprived Yudhishṭhira of his chariot
Yudhishṭhira fled, riding in another chariot with the white steeds with black hair on their tails that used to bear him, pursued by Karṇa (c), who touched him with his hand, but remembered the words of Kuntī and was withheld by Śalya, but insulted Yudhishṭhira () and let him escape. The Cedis, etc. (), followed Yudhishṭhira
Karṇa made a great slaughter of the Pāṇḍava forces
Yudhishṭhira urged his forces to proceed against Karṇa, which they did, headed by Bhīmasena (+ Sātyaki) (description)
the Kurus broke and fled away (VIII, 49). Duryodhana in vain tried to stop the flying troops. Then Śakuni, etc. + Karṇa & Bhīmasena, who let Sātyaki and Dhṛshṭadyumna protect Yudhishṭhira
Śalya pointed out Bhīma to Karṇa ()
Karṇa replied ()
Karṇa swooned and was brought away by Śalya (VIII, 50). Requested by Dhṛtarāshṭra (), Sañjaya related: Urged by Duryodhana, several Kuru leaders () assailed Bhīma, who slew, among others, six sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra (). The other sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra fled away. Karṇa & Bhīmasena, whom he deprived of his chariot, but who then with his mace killed elephants and men by hundreds, among others fifty-two elephants belonging to Śakuni
next 3, 000 horsemen dispatched by Śakuni, then he mounted another chariot and proceeded against Karṇa. Karṇa & Yudhishṭhira, whom he pursued as he was flying away
Bhīmasena & Karṇa
Sātyaki & Karṇa. Beholding Śakuni, etc. (), the Kurus rallied when the sun had reached the meridian. Fierce battle (VIII, 51)
(description) (VIII, 52). Arjuna & the Saṃśaptakas, etc. ()
Arjuna (+ Kṛshṇa) & Suśarman
Arjuna repeatedly invoked the Nāga weapon, paralysing the legs (encircled with snakes) of the Saṃśaptakas
Suśarman invoked the Sauparṇa weapon
birds came down and devoured the snakes
Arjuna sat down, recovered, and invoked the Aindra weapon
the battle became awful (VIII, 53). Kṛtavarman, etc. (), began a fierce battle
Kṛpa & Śikhaṇḍin (+ the Sṛñjayas)
Śikhaṇḍin was deprived of his chariot and made inactive
Dḥrshṭadyumna proceeded against Kṛpa
Kṛtavarman & Dhṛshṭadyumna
Aśvatthāman & Yudhishṭhira (proceeding towards the chariot of Kṛpa)
Duryodhana & Nakula and Sahadeva
Karṇa & Bhīmasena, etc. ()
Kṛpa & Śikhaṇḍin
Suketu (the son of Citraketu) & Kṛpa
Śikhaṇḍin retreated
Kṛpa slew Suketu, whose troops fled away
Kṛtavarman & Dhṛshṭadyumna, who made him driverless and was assailed by the Kurus (VIII, 54). Aśvatthāman & Yudhishṭhira, etc. () (description)
Prativindhya, etc. (), & Aśvatthāman
Sātyaki had his driver slain
Yudhishṭhira went away, leaving his division, against the Kurus
Aśvatthāman also left the spot (VIII, 55). Karṇa & Bhīmasena, etc. (), who, avoiding Karṇa, proceeded against the Kurus
Arjuna & the Saṃśaptakas
Bhīmasena & the Kauravas
Karṇa & the Pāñcālas
Duryodhana & Nakula and Sahadeva
Dhṛshṭadyumna (in order to rescue Nakula and Sahadeva) & Duryodhana (d), who was rescued by his brothers and borne away by Daṇḍadhāra upon the latter's chariot. Karṇa (having vanquished Sātyaki and desirous of rescuing Duryodhana) & Dhṛshṭadyumna + Sātyaki (pursuing Karṇa from behind) + the Pāñcālas
a fierce battle between the two armies when the sun had ascended the meridian
Karṇa & Vyāghraketu, etc. () (description) (). Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), & Karṇa. Bhīmasena slew the Kurus: Bāhlīkas, etc. () (description) (). Arjuna addressed Kṛshṇa upon beholding Karṇa's (e) prowess, and seeing that the Saṃśaptakas were broken. Arjuna (and Kṛshṇa) broke through the Kuru host. Duryodhana once more urged the Saṃśaptakas against him. Having slain 10, 000 kshatriyas, Arjuna came to the further wing of the Saṃśaptakas, which was protected by the Kāmbojas
the younger brother of the Kāmboja chief Sudakshiṇa was killed by Arjuna
the Kāmbojas, etc. (), were slain. Aśvatthāman & Arjuna (+ Kṛshṇa)
Si. and Cā. came
Kṛshṇa urged Arjuna not to spare Aśvatthāman, who swooned and was carried away by his driver
Arjuna slew the Kuru troops. Arjuna had routed the Saṃśaptakas, Bhīmasena the Kurus, Karṇa the Pāñcālas. Yudhishṭhira, pained by his wounds, had retreated a krośa (VIII, 56). Duryodhana addressed the Kuru leaders (). Aśvatthāman swore to slay Dhṛshṭadyumna or not to doff his armour (). A fierce battle commenced. D., Aps., etc., came
Aps. rained flowers, etc., on the combatants (VIII, 57). Arjuna pointed out to Kṛshṇa that the Pāṇḍava army was flying away, Karṇa slaying their warriors, and Yudhishṭhira nowhere to be seen
“the third part of the day still remains.” Arjuna proceeded to Yudhishṭhira (+ Sṛñjayas)
Kṛshṇa described the field of battle to Arjuna (). A terrible battle commenced (VIII, 58). The Kurus (headed by Karṇa) & the Sṛñjayas (Pārthas, headed by Yudhishṭhira)
a remnant only of the Saṃśaptakas were left alive. Dhṛshṭadyumna + the Pāṇḍavas (and all the kings on their side) & Karṇa
Sātyaki & Karṇa
Aśvatthāman & Dhṛshṭadyumna
Karṇa & the Pāñcālas, etc. ()
Dhṛshṭadyumna was worsted by Aśvatthāman and rescued by Arjuna
Arjuna & Aśvatthāman (abandoning Dhṛshṭadyumna)
Dhṛshṭadyumna was brought away by Sahadeva on the latter's chariot
Aśvatthāman swooned on his chariot and was carried away by his driver. Arjuna proceeded to wards the Saṃśaptakas (VIII, 59). Kṛshṇa pointed out to Arjuna that Yudhishṭhira was being pursued by many Dhārtarāshṭras, headed by Duryodhana, while the Pāñcālas were following in order to rescue him, and that he was in great danger, though the Kurus had been checked by Sātyaki and Bhīma, because Duryodhana, etc. (), would break down the very mountains
“Yudhishṭhira is exceedingly emaciated in consequence of his fastings
he is endued with Brāhma force, but not with much of kshatriya might”
he was surrounded by the Dhārtarāshṭra warriors with the weapons Sthūṇākarṇa, etc. ()
in the very sight of the twins, etc. (), Karṇa was destroying the Pāṇḍava division, and rushing against Bhīmasena
having vanquished the Pāñcālas, etc. (), he would soon come against Arjuna, and he was protected by Duryodhana
he should be slain
Karṇa was rushing against Dhṛshṭadyumna in order to exterminate the Pāñśālas
however, Yudhishṭhira was living
Bhīma (+ Sṛñjayas and Sātyaki) and the Pāñcālas were now conquering the Kauravas, who were flying away, Kṛpa and Karṇa, etc., resisting the Pāñcālas (headed by Dhṛshṭadyumna)
the Nishāda prince (coming on his elephant against Yudhishṭhira) was slain by Bhīma, who had checked three akshauhiṇīs of Duryodhana's soldiers. Arjuna then destroyed the remnant of his foes
the Saṃśaptakas fled (VIII, 60). Requested by Dhṛtarāshṭra (), Sañjaya related: Karṇa, etc., & Bhīmasena + the Pāṇḍavas, etc. ()
Śikhaṇḍin & Karṇa
Dhṛshṭadyumna & Duḥśāsana
Nakula & Vṛshasena (at the side of his father)
Yudhishṭhira & Citrasena
Sahadeva & Ulūka
Sātyaki & Śakuni
the Draupadeyas & the other Kauravas
Aśvatthāman & Arjuna
Kṛpa & Yudhāmanyu
Kṛtavarman & Uttamaujas
Śikhaṇḍin was deprived of his chariot by Karṇa and retreated
Dhṛshṭadyumna (+ many Pāñcālas) & Duḥśāsana: Si. and Aps., etc., wondered. Karṇa endeavours to rally the retreating troops of the Dhārtarāshṭras. After Karṇa had gone away, Nakula proceeded against the Kauravas
Karṇa's son, avoiding Nakula, went to Karṇa in order to protect his chariot-wheel. Ulūka was made driverless by Sahadeva and entered the division of the Trigartas. Śakuni ascended the chariot of Ulūka, who took him away from Sātyaki, who then routed the Kuru army. Duryodhana & Bhīmasena, who deprived him of his chariot and bow and made him fly away
the whole Kuru army attacked Bhīmasena, who scattered them. Yudhāmanyu retreated on his chariot, driving it himself. Uttamaujas sat down and was taken away by his driver. The whole Kuru army attacked Bhīmasena
Duḥśāsana and Śakuni (with an elephant force) & Bhīmasena, who made Duryodhana fly away, invoked his celestial weapons, and scattered and destroyed them (description) (VIII, 61). Arjuna (with Kṛshṇa) appeared. Duryodhana (with half his troops in order to seize Yudhishṭhira) & Yudhishṭhira, whose warriors () then came to rescue him with an akshauhiṇī
Karṇa checked them all
Sahadeva (invoking a celestial weapon) & Duryodhana
Karṇa began an onslaught on the troops of Yudhishṭhira and Dhṛshṭadyumna
they fled away
Karṇa & Yudhishṭhira, who sat down and ordered his driver to retreat
Duryodhana and the Dhārtarāshṭras pursued him
but 1, 700 Kekaya troops and a body of Pāñcāla troops checked them. Duryodhana & Bhīma (VIII, 62). Karṇa & the Kaikayas, who fled to Bhīmasena. Karṇa & Yudhishṭhira (who was proceeding slowly towards the Pāṇḍava encampment with Nakula and Sahadeva, the protectors of his chariot-wheels, on his two sides)
Nakula and Sahadeva & Karṇa, who slew the steeds both of Yudhishṭhira and Nakula, who both ascended the chariot of Sahadeva
Śalya, in order to rescue them, exhorted Karṇa to fight with Arjuna, but in vain
Yudhishṭhira turned from the battle
Śalya once more reminded Karṇa of Arjuna, etc. (), and that Duryodhana was in danger from Bhīmasena. Karṇa then left Yudhishṭhira and the twins and rushed to the rescue of Duryodhana. Yudhishṭhira in shame retreated with the steeds of Sahadeva, with the twins, whom he then dispatched to Bhīma (VIII, 63). Aśvatthāman & Arjuna
Aśvatthāman employed the Aindra weapon, which Arjuna baffled with a powerful weapon created by Indra
Aśvatthāman, having had his driver slain, himself guided his steeds while he fought with Arjuna
then he was brought away by his steeds. The Pāṇḍavas, repeatedly charging the Kauravas, broke their ranks and caused them to fly away in the very sight of Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons, etc. (). Duryodhana caused Karṇa to rally the troops
Karṇa, employing the Bhārgava weapon, harassed the Pāñcālas, who, with the Cedis, began to lose their senses. The Sṛñjayas called upon Arjuna and Vāsudeva. Arjuna spoke to Kṛshṇa about Karṇa
Kṛshṇa reminded him first to seek Yudhishṭhira (VIII, 64). Arjuna met with Bhīma and asked him to bring intelligence of Yudhishṭhira
Bhīma feared to incur the reproach of cowardice by leaving the battle
Arjuna went to Yudhishṭhira in the Pāṇḍava camp upon Bhīma agreeing to resist the Saṃśaptakas. Arjuna and Kṛshṇa found Yudhishṭhira lying on his bed
thinking that Karṇa had been slain (VIII, 65), Yudhishṭhira congratulated them () (VIII, 66). Arjuna told Yudhishṭhira the real motive of his arrival in camp (), and swore to slay Karṇa and all the foes that very day (VIII, 67). Yudhishṭhira censured Arjuna, thinking that he had run away from the battle, leaving Bhīma unsupported (), several times invoking him to give up Gāṇḍīva to somebody else (VIII, 68). Arjuna drew his sword in order to strike off Yudhishṭhira's head in fulfilment of his vow about the person who would tell him to give up Gāṇḍīva ()
Kṛshṇa addressed Arjuna on the nature of truth (), relating the story of Balāka (f) and of Kauśika (g)
Arjuna said he must keep his vow ()
Kṛshṇa suggested that Arjuna by insulting Yudhishṭhira, by addressing him as “thou, ” would be regarded as having slain him () (VIII, 69). Urged by Kṛshṇa, Arjuna insulted Yudhishṭhira in a long speech ()
then he became despondent and desired to strike off his own head
Kṛshṇa urged him to utter his own praises, as selfpraise is equal to self-destruction. Arjuna praised himself (), and begged for Yudhishṭhira's forgiveness, promising to slay Karṇa and rescue Bhīma. Yudhishṭhira grieved, saying that Bhīmasena, not he, ought to be king. Kṛshṇa comforted Yudhishṭhira and induced him to forgive both himself and Arjuna () (VIII, 70). Speeches of Kṛshṇa, Arjuna, and Yudhishṭhira on the same topic () (VIII, 71). Arjuna proceeded to slay Karṇa, having obtained Yudhishṭhira's leave
commanded by Kṛshṇa, Dāruka had equipped the chariot. Auspicious omens. Kṛshṇa addressed Arjuna in order to raise his spirits () (VIII, 72)
continuation () (VIII, 73). Arjuna's cheerful reply to Kṛshṇa () (VIII, 74). Requested by Dhṛtarāshṭra (), Sañjaya related: Description of the battle
Arjuna slew many. Kṛpa & Śikhaṇḍin
Sātyaki & Duryodhana
Śrutaśravas & Aśvatthāman
Yudhāmanyu & Citrasena
the Sṛñjaya Uttamaujas & Karṇa's son Susheṇa
Sahadeva & the Gāndhāra king Śakuni
Nakula's son Śatānīka & Karṇa's son Vṛshasena
Nakula & Kṛtavarman
the Pāñcāla king Dhṛshṭadyumna & Karṇa
Duḥśāsana (with the Saṃśaptakas in the Bharata army) & Bhīma. Uttamaujas slew Susheṇa. Karṇa & Uttamaujas, who had his steeds slain, slew the steeds of Kṛpa, etc., and ascended the chariot of Śikhaṇḍin. Śikhaṇḍin did not wish to strike Kṛpa while the latter had no chariot: Aśvatthāman rescued Kṛpa. Bhīma scorched the Kuru troops with his arrows (VIII, 75). The Bharata host fled before Bhīma, who said to his charioteer Viśoka that he was anxious about Arjuna and Yudhishṭhira
requested by Bhīma, Viśoka took an estimate of his weapons. Bhīma once more addressed Viśoka, saying that he would that day slay all the Kurus or himself succumb, etc. (). Viśoka pointed out to Bhīma that Arjuna was returning to battle (). Bhīma promised to give Viśoka fourteen villages, 100 female slaves, and twenty chariots for this agreeable intelligence (VIII, 76). Arjuna and Bhīma attacked the Kaurava army with great vigour (description). Duryodhana told his troops to slay Bhīma, who made a formidable carnage among them (description). Śakuni (urged by Duryodhana) + his brothers & Bhīma
Śakuni was brought away by Duryodhana, who retreated
the troops fled away to Karṇa (VIII, 77). Requested by Dhṛtarāshṭra (), Sañjaya related: In the afternoon Karṇa assailed the Somakas, and Bhīma the Dhārtarāshṭra troops. Karṇa assailed the Pāñcālas, etc. ()
the Pāṇḍavas encompassed him on all sides
Śikhaṇḍin, etc. (), & Karṇa, who vanquished them. Cedis and Matsyas & Karṇa, who checked them
D., Si., and Cā. were gratified
the Pāṇḍava troops fled, and were attacked by the Dhārtarāshṭra archers. Duryodhana rejoiced
Duryodhana, etc. (), slew the Pāṇḍava warriors
similarly the Pāṇḍava heroes Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), made an onslaught on the Kurus (VIII, 78). Arjuna produced a river of blood (description). Requested by Arjuna (), Kṛshṇa took him to Karṇa, whom Śalya informed (), and who answered Śalya (). Requested by Karṇa, Duryodhana, etc. (), in order to open up a path for Karṇa to Arjuna, speedily proceeded and attacked Arjuna, who caused a great onslaught
Aśvatthāman & Kṛpa and Kṛtavarman & Arjuna, who vanquished them. Śikhaṇḍin, etc. (), proceeding towards Arjuna, checked the foes
the Kurus and Sṛñjayas slew one another (VIII, 79). Arjuna (avoiding Karṇa) proceeded to the rescue of Bhīma and slew the assailants of Bhīma
the Kurus fled
Arjuna informed Bhīma that Yudhishṭhira was well, and then proceeded
he was surrounded by ten sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra (who were all Duḥśāsana's juniors in age), whom he slew (VIII, 80). Arjuna was assailed by ninety Saṃśaptakas as he was proceeding towards Karṇa's chariot
he slew them. Many Kauravas attacked him, whom he destroyed. Then he was attacked by a force of Mlecchas, riding 1, 300 elephants, commanded by Duryodhana. Arjuna made a heavy onslaught. Abandoning the small remnant of Kauravas, Bhīmasena rushed towards Arjuna and also destroyed this remnant
then he followed Arjuna in his rear
Karṇa was deserted by his troops
the sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra repaired to Karṇa. Karṇa attacked the Pāñcālas (VIII, 81)
Karṇa felled Janamejaya's driver and steeds, and cut off the bows of Śatānīka and Sutasoma
Karṇa & Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. ()
Ugrakarman (the commander of the Kaikeya division) & Karṇa's son Prasena
Karṇa slew Ugrakarman
Prasena & Sātyaki, who slew him
Karṇa & Sātyaki + Śikhaṇḍin
Karṇa slew Dhṛshṭadyumna's son and attacked Sutasoma. Kṛshṇa urged Arjuna to slay Karṇa
Arjuna proceeded with Bhīmasena
Uttamaujas, etc. (), & Karṇa (grinding the Somakas), who vanquished them
they were rescued by the Draupadeyas
Sātyaki & Duryodhana + Kṛpa, etc. ()
Duḥśāsana & Bhīma (VIII, 82). Bhīma (addressing Karṇa, etc.) () slew Duḥśāsana and drank his blood in the very sight of Duryodhana and Karṇa
the bystanders, with Karṇa's brother Citrasena, fled away, thinking Bhīma to be a Rā.
Yudhāmanyu, etc., pursued Citrasena
Citrasena (turning back) was slain by him
Karṇa (putting the Pāṇḍava host to flight) & Nakula
Bhīmasena took up a little of Duḥśāsana's blood and drank it (), addressing Kṛshṇa and Arjuna and vowing soon to slay Duryodhana (VIII, 83). Ten of Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons () & Bhīma, who slew them. Karṇa was afraid, but was encouraged by Śalya (). Karṇa's son Vṛshasena & Bhīma + Nakula, who had his white steeds of the Vanāyu breed slain by him, and sprang upon Bhīma's chariot in the sight of Arjuna
urged by Bhīma and Nakula, Arjuna proceeded towards Vṛshasena (VIII, 84). Eleven warriors () + the Kulindas (upon elephants, born in Himālayan regions) & Kṛtavarman, etc. ()
the Kulinda prince & Kṛpa, who slew him
the younger brother of the Kulinda prince & Kṛpa + the Gāndhāra king, who slew the Kulinda
the Kurus & the Pāṇḍus & Sṛñjayas
the Bhoja chief Kṛtavarman & Śatānīka
Aśvatthāman slew three elephants
the third brother of the Kulinda chief & Duryodhana
the Kulinda, mounting another elephant, & Krātha, who was slain
Vṛka & the same Kulinda, whose elephant crushed him
the son of Babhru & the same elephant + Sahadeva's son
Babhru fell down
the same Kulinda & Śakuni (the Gāndhāra chief), who slew him
Nakula's son Śatānīka (who slew elephants, etc.) & a Kulinda warrior [on the Kaurava side], who was slain by him
Karṇa's son Vṛshasena & Śatānīka + Arjuna, etc. ()
Arjuna, informing Karṇa and all the other Kurus headed by Duryodhana and Aśvatthāman that he would slay Vṛshasena and then Karṇa, as Bhīma would slay Duryodhana, slew Vṛshasena
Karṇa & Arjuna (+ Kṛshṇa) (VIII, 85)
Kṛshṇa addressed Arjuna ()
Arjuna's reply () (VIII, 86)
description of Arjuna and Karṇa ()
all the inhabitants of the world were heard to differ amongst themselves: D., Dā., G., Pś., the Snakes, Rā.
As., Yātudhānas, Gh., etc., sided with Karṇa
the Vedas, etc. (), with Arjuna
the smaller snakes all sided with Karṇa
V., M., Sā., R., V.-D., A., Agni, etc. (), sided with Arjuna, while all Ā. sided with Karṇa
the Vaiśyas, etc. (), sided with Karṇa
P., etc. (), with Arjuna
the Pretas, Pś., Rā., etc., with Karṇa
D.-ṛ., B.-ṛ., R.-ṛ. with Arjuna, as also G. headed by Tumburu. With the Prādheyas and Mauneyas, G. and Aps., and many wise sages, having for their vehicles wolves, etc., came in order to witness the encounter that was also witnessed by D., Dā., G., N., Y., etc., M.-ṛ., P. (subsisting upon svadhā), etc., and Brahmán with B.-ṛ. and Prajāpatis and Bhava. Indra wished that Arjuna should vanquish Karṇa
Sūrya that Karṇa should vanquish Arjuna. The gods urged Brahmán that the success of both should be equal, Indra that Arjuna and Kṛshṇa should win
Brahmán and Iśāna (i.e. Śiva) said that the victory of Arjuna was certain ()
“let Karṇa obtain identity with V. or M.
let him with Droṇa and Bhīshma be worshipped in heaven.” Indra acquiesced in their words. Description of Karṇa's and Arjuna's chariots. The ape on Arjuna's banner attacked the elephant's rope on Karṇa's banner. Kṛshṇa and Śalya cast keen glances at each other, and so did Arjuna and Karṇa. Karṇa asked Śalya what he would do if he was slain
Śalya said that then he would slay both Kṛshṇa and Arjuna
similarly asked by Arjuna, Kṛshṇa said that Karṇa could not slay Arjuna
if so, the destruction of the universe would be at hand, and he would himself slay Karṇa and Śalya. Arjuna said that that very day the wives of Karṇa would become widows () (VIII, 87). In the welkin D., N., As., Si., Y., G., Rā., Aps., B.-ṛ., etc., looked on. The battle commenced. Duryodhana, etc. (), & Arjuna (+ Kṛshṇa)
Arjuna defeated all of them
floral showers fell, etc.
Aśvatthāman told Duryodhana to make peace (), but in vain ()
Duryodhana urged his troops (VIII, 88)
description of the battle between Arjuna and Karṇa
Arjuna employed an Āgneya weapon, which was quenched by Karṇa with a Vāruṇa weapon by means of clouds, which Arjuna dispelled by a Vāyavya weapon
Arjuna employed the Aindra weapon (?astraṃ dayitaṃ devarājñaḥ), Karṇa the Bhārgava weapon. The Pāñcālas and Somakas & Karṇa, who slew them. Seeing Arjuna's weapons baffled by Karṇa, Bhīma urged Arjuna to put forth his strength (), and so did Kṛshṇa (). Arjuna bowed to Brahmán and invoked the Brāhma weapon, which could be applied by the wind alone
Karṇa baffled it
urged by Bhīma, Arjuna applied a second Brāhma weapon, which caused a great carnage among the Kaurava troops (description). Karṇa & Bhīmasena, etc. (). Arjuna shot at Karṇa and Śalya, and slew Sabhāpati, etc. The Kauravas urged Karṇa to slay Arjuna. Yudhishṭhira appeared in order to witness the encounter. Arjuna's bowstring broke
Karṇa took advantage of the interval to hit Arjuna, etc. (). Karṇa employed as arrows five snakes that had sided with Takshaka's son [i.e. Aśvasena, at Khāṇḍava]
they penetrated Kṛshṇa's body, entered the earth, and, having bathed [in Bhogavatī], returned to Karṇa, but were cut off by Arjuna, who then covered Karṇa's chariot with showers of arrows and slew 2, 000 Kurus, who had been urged by Duryodhana to fight. The Kurus fled, leaving Karṇa to fight singly with Arjuna (VIII, 89). Karṇa baffled Arjuna's weapon
Karṇa and Arjuna shot at each other dense showers of arrows. The snake Aśvasena, who was hostile to Arjuna, was passing his time in the nether region, having escaped from the conflagration at Khāṇḍava
recollecting the death of his mother he now soared up and entered into Karṇa's quiver in the shape of an arrow. Karṇa and Arjuna were fanned and sprinkled with fragrant sandal water by many Aps. staying in the welkin, and Śakra and Sūrya with their hands gently brushed their faces. Karṇa aimed that arrow, born in Airāvata's race (i.e. the snake in the shape of an arrow), which he had long kept for Arjuna's destruction, and which lay singly in a golden quiver amid sandal dust
omens appeared, and the Lokapālas with Śakra raised loud wails. Karṇa did not know that the snake Aśvasena had entered his arrow by the aid of his yoga powers. Śalya in vain exhorted Karṇa to take another arrow
Karṇa said: “Karṇa never aims an arrow twice
persons like us never become crooked warriors.” Kṛshṇa with his feet pressed Arjuna's chariot about a cubit into the earth, and the snake-arrow, failing to strike off Arjuna's head, broke his diadem (made by Svayambhū for Indra &gt
Arjuna), incapable of being crushed by Rudra, etc. (). Celestial flowers were showered upon Kṛshṇa, etc. Aśvasena appeared to Karṇa and asked him to shoot the same weapon again
Karṇa refused to avail himself of another's help or shoot the same shaft twice. Aśvasena then, of his own accord, rushed on Arjuna in the shape of an arrow
Kṛshṇa informed Arjuna that it was Aśvasena, who, as an unborn child, was saved with his mother at Khāṇḍava. Arjuna cut the snake into pieces, and Krshṇa with his arms raised the chariot from the earth. Once, when Karṇa was stupefied and stood inactive, Arjuna was disinclined to slay him in such distress, but he was taught by Kṛshṇa never to spare an enemy, however weak. At that time, when the hour of Karṇa's death had come, Kāla, approaching invisibly, in consequence of the brahman's wrath, said “the earth is swallowing up thy wheel, ” and the weapon that Rāma had given him escaped from his memory, and the earth engulfed his left wheel. Karṇa began to rail at righteousness as not always protecting its worshippers. Karṇa invoked the Brāhma weapon, and Arjuna the Aindra weapon, which was baffled by Karṇa
urged by Kṛshṇa to “shoot high weapons, ” Arjuna shot the Brāhma weapon. Karṇa cut off, one after another, eleven bowstrings of Arjuna's, not knowing that Arjuna had one hundred strings to his bow
urged by Kṛshṇa to strike Karṇa with “superior weapons, ” Arjuna then consecrated another celestial weapon with mantras, uniting the Raudra weapon with it. At that time the earth swallowed up one of Karṇa's wheels. Quickly alighting, Karṇa seized his sunken wheel with his two arms and endeavoured to lift it up
the earth rose up to the height of four fingers breadth, with her seven islands, etc.
Karṇa shed tears from wrath and asked Arjuna to wait for a moment till he had lifted his sunken wheel (VIII, 90). Kṛshṇa taunted Karṇa for appealing to virtue and the rules of fair fight by reminding him of all the wrongs done to the Pāṇḍavas by himself. and Duryodhana acting according to his counsels (). Karṇa dropped his head in shame and gave no answer, and continued to fight. Kṛshṇa urged Arjuna to pierce Karṇa with a celestial weapon
Arjuna, remembering the incidents alluded to by Kṛshṇa, blazed up with fury
blazing flames of fire seemed to emanate from all the pores of his body, a sight that appeared exceedingly wonderful. Both Karṇa and Arjuna invoked the Brāhma weapon, and Karṇa once more made an effort to extricate his chariot. Arjuna shot an Agni weapon, quenched by Karṇa with a Vāruṇa weapon, covering all the points of the compass with darkness, which Arjuna dispelled with the Vāyavya weapon. Pierced by a shaft of Karṇa's, while the earth trembled, etc., Arjuna began to reel, the Gāṇḍīva dropped from his hand, etc. At the interval Karṇa fruitlessly endeavoured to extricate his chariot. Recovering his senses, Arjuna took up an añjalika weapon. Urged by Kṛshṇa to cut off the head of Karṇa, Arjuna cut off his standard, and then, with an añjalika weapon (the Ṛ. loudly crying out “peace be to the universe”), struck off Karṇa's head before Karṇa could mount his chariot. A light issued from Karṇa's body and entered the Sun. The Pāṇḍavas rejoiced () (VIII, 91). Duryodhana, etc., grieved
Bhīma, uttering loud roars, frightened the Kauravas, etc. (). Śalya informed Duryodhana of Karṇa's death (). Duryodhana became almost deprived of his senses (VIII, 92). Requested by Dhṛtarāshṭra, Sañjaya related the state of the Kaurava army after Karṇa's fall (). Duryodhana resolved to make a final stand (). Bhīmasena and Dhṛshṭadyumna (+ four kinds of forces) & Duryodhana (+ 25, 000 warriors on foot, who were slain)
Arjuna & the chariot force of the Kauravas
Nakula, etc. (), & Śakuni
the Kurus fled away
Cekitāna, etc. (), blew their conches. Duryodhana challenged all the Pāṇḍavas and fought with them with great valour
he rallied the remnants of his troops and exhorted them to fight ()
they fled away heedless of his words (VIII, 93). Śalya described to Duryodhana the carnage on the field (), and urged the withdrawal of the troops to their nightly quarters. Having repeatedly comforted Duryodhana, they retired headed by Aśvatthāman. Karṇa did not lose his splendour. D., Ṛ., etc., retired. The portents that were seen at Karṇa's fall. Arjuna and Kṛshṇa blew their conches, at which the Kauravas left the field, deserting Śalya and Duryodhana. D., G., men, Cā., M.-ṛ., Y., and M.-U. congratulated Kṛshṇa and Arjuna (VIII, 94). Enumeration of the Kauravas retiring from the field (). Urged by Kṛshṇa (), who told Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), to stand there with care, Arjuna presented himself to Yudhishṭhira, who, rising from his bed, greeted Arjuna and Kṛshṇa
Kṛshṇa congratulated Yudhishṭhira (), who ascribed his success to Kṛshṇa's influence (). Yudhishṭhira, with Kṛshṇa and Arjuna, came back to the field to have a look at Karṇa's body. The kings, filled with joy, approached Yudhishṭhira and gladdened him greatly
so Nakula, etc. (). Dhṛtarāshṭra and Gāndhārī swooned away and were comforted by Vidura, Sañjaya, and the Kuru ladies. The fruits of reciting the Karṇaparvan, as also of hearing it recited (VIII, 96): VIII, 96, 5046.--§ 795c (Mahābhārata): XVIII, 6, 273.
वाचस्पत्यम्
Sanskrit
कर्ण्णपर्वन्
न०
 भारतान्तर्गते अष्टमे पर्व्वणि । तत्पर्व्वणिकथासंग्रहश्च भा० आ० १ अ० यथा“अतः परं कर्णपर्व प्रोच्यते परमाद्भुतम् । सारथ्ये-विनियोगश्च मद्रराजस्य धीमतः । आख्यानं यत्र पौराणांत्रिपुरस्य निपातनम् । प्रयाणे परुषश्चात्र संवादः कर्ण शल्य-योः । हंसकाकीयमाख्यानं तथैवाक्षेपसंभृतम् । बधः पा-ण्डस्य च तथा अश्वत्थाम्ना महात्मना । दण्डसेनस्य च ततोदण्डस्य च बधस्तथा । द्वैरथे यत्र कर्णेन धर्मराजो युधि-ष्ठिरः । संशयं गमितो युद्धे मिषतां सर्वधन्विनाम् । अन्यो-न्यं प्रति च क्रोधं युधिष्ठिरकिरीटिनोः । तत्रैवानुनयःप्रोक्तोमाधवेनार्ज्जुनस्य हि । प्रतिज्ञापूर्वकञ्चापि वक्षोदुः-शासनस्य च । भित्त्वा वृकोदरो रक्तं पीतवानत्र संयुगे ।द्वैरथे यत्र पार्थेन हतः कर्णो महारथः । अष्टमं पर्वनिर्दिष्टमेतद्भारतचिन्तकैः । एकोनसप्ततिः प्रोक्ता अध्या-याः कर्णपर्वणि । चत्वार्य्येव सहस्राणि नवश्लोकशतानि च ।चतुःषष्टिस्तथा श्लोकाः पर्वण्यस्मिन् प्रकीत्तिताः” ।“कर्णपर्वण्यपि तथा भोजनं सार्व्वकामिकम् । विप्रेभ्यःसंस्कृतं सम्यग्दद्यात् संयतमानसः” भा० स्वर्गा० ६ अ० ।