Class 7th Katha Manjusha (Lesson 4)

Summary

The script narrates the aftermath of the Mahabharata war, focusing on the emotional turmoil in Hastinapur following the news of Duryodhana's death. It describes the grief of the Kuru family, the curse by Gandhari that predicts the downfall of the Yadava clan, and Krishna's eventual departure to the divine abode. The narrative captures the transition from war to peace, the rise and fall of kingdoms, and the spiritual journey of key characters.

Takeaways

• 😢 The news of Duryodhana's death led to widespread mourning in Hastinapur, affecting the royal family deeply, including Dhritarashtra and Gandhari.
• 🏰 The Kurukshetra battlefield was described as a scene of utter devastation, with blood and the bodies of fallen warriors covering the ground, causing distress to the visiting royal women.
• 🙏 Gandhari, despite being blindfolded, was given divine sight by Veda Vyasa to witness the consequences of the war, which led to her cursing Krishna for the destruction of her lineage.
• 🛡️ Arjuna was reluctant to fight in the war, especially against his own kin, but was persuaded by Krishna, who reminded him of his duty and the righteousness of their cause.
• 👥 The Yadavas, Krishna's clan, eventually succumbed to immoral behavior, leading to internal conflicts and the eventual destruction of their dynasty as foretold by Gandhari's curse.
• 🗡️ The Yadavas' downfall was marked by their indulgence in drinking and fighting with a special type of bladed grass, which led to their self-destruction.
• 🌲 Balarama, Krishna's elder brother, was deeply affected by the death of his people and the destruction of their lineage, leading him to enter a state of deep sorrow and eventually die.
• 🌌 After witnessing the death of Balarama and the end of the Yadavas, Krishna, in a state of contemplation, was mistakenly shot by a hunter who mistook the reflection of a gem on his crown for a deer.
• 🕉️ Krishna's death spread shock and grief throughout the kingdom, as he was a revered figure and a symbol of righteousness.
• 🤝 Krishna played a crucial role in the war, not only as a warrior but also as a moral guide, emphasizing the importance of duty and righteousness over personal relationships.
• ⚔️ The Mahabharata war had profound effects on all involved, leading to significant changes in the political landscape and the eventual rise of the Pandavas to power.

Q & A

What was the initial reaction in Hastinapur upon hearing the news of Duryodhana's death?

Upon hearing the news of Duryodhana's death, there was an outburst of laughter in Hastinapur, as it was a moment of triumph for the Kauravas.

What was the condition of the Kuru family after the Kurukshetra war?

The Kuru family was in deep sorrow and shock after the war. They were submerged in the ocean of grief, with members like Dhritarashtra and Gandhari being particularly affected.

What was the state of the battlefield of Kurukshetra after the war?

The battlefield of Kurukshetra was a scene of utter devastation. It was covered with the blood and remains of the warriors, with the ground soaked in blood and the air filled with the cries of the bereaved.

Why did Gandhari curse Krishna?

Gandhari cursed Krishna because she believed that his support for the Pandavas led to the destruction of her family and the Kuru dynasty.

How did the Yadavas behave after Krishna left Dwaraka?

After Krishna left Dwaraka, the Yadavas started to behave against their dharma. They indulged in drinking and other vices, leading to internal conflicts and the eventual downfall of their clan.

What was the curse that Gandhari gave Krishna?

Gandhari cursed that just as her family was destroyed by internal conflict, Krishna's Yadava dynasty would also meet its end in a similar fashion.

How did the Pandavas feel after the war?

The Pandavas felt a mix of victory and sorrow after the war. While they had won, they also lost many dear to them and witnessed the devastation caused by the war.

What was the role of Krishna in the Kurukshetra war?

Krishna played a crucial role in the Kurukshetra war as a charioteer and advisor to Arjuna, providing him with the wisdom and encouragement needed to fight.

What was the impact of the war on the women of the Kuru family?

The women of the Kuru family were deeply affected by the war. They mourned the loss of their loved ones and were left to lament the destruction caused by the conflict.

How did the news of Duryodhana's death spread and what was its effect?

The news of Duryodhana's death spread quickly and had a profound impact on the people of Hastinapur, leading to an initial celebration followed by widespread mourning.

What was the final fate of the Yadava dynasty as a result of Gandhari's curse?

The final fate of the Yadava dynasty was their downfall. They indulged in vices, fought amongst themselves, and ultimately destroyed each other, fulfilling Gandhari's curse.